Hold Me, AJ

Chapters

Precious Magic
What Now
Hearts And Hooves Day
Spicing Things Up
Wrapped Around Your Hoof
Here Come The Brides
The Newcomer
Two For One
A Mare's Love
The Apple/Sparkle Family
Matters At Home

Precious Magic

Hold Me, AJ
By Stratocaster

Chapter 1: Precious Magic

It couldn't have been a more perfect night. Twilight Sparkle had just returned from a month long journey to the Crystal Empire alongside Princess Celestia. Now that she was back in Ponyville, the welcome was indeed warm. Applejack was the first to snatch her up with a welcome back greeting and treated the hardworking scholar to a full day of fun. Starting with a hearty dinner, the two mares afterwards enjoyed an exciting rodeo from some of the visiting Apple family, then grooved in the town square to some music by Octavia...along with Vinyl Scratch. As nighttime fell, they soon helped themselves to some of Granny Smith's homemade apple cinnamon crumbles with little Applebloom and Big Macintosh. From there, all that was left was just lying out on a grassy hill by the orchards, gazing up at Luna's starry sky. Twilight and Applejack lay next to each other doing just that.

"So then Ah said," said Applejack, picking up from where she left off. "'Big Mac, just because you can eat worms doesn't mean you should leave 'em in the apples'."

Twilight giggled. "That's hysterical. I can't believe he actually did that."

"Yeah, big brothers can be such a pain sometimes."

"Tell me about it. The whole time I was in the Crystal Empire, Shining Armor kept me up at night with his music. I don't know how Cadence can put up with him."

"Heh heh, me neither." Applejack paused. "You know, Ah really missed you while you were away, Twi."

"Oh, you don't have to tell me twice." Twilight humbled.

"No Ah mean it. It's just not the same without ya here in town. Fluttershy was even worried that another ursa minor would show up without you around. You really know how to keep everything sane around here with your magic 'n all."

"Well, I'm not exactly a police pony, but I do what I can to help my friends. I'm sure you would do the same whether I was here or not."

Applejack smiled. "Thank ya, Twi." She then wrapped her hooves around herself and shivered. "Brrr, it's startin' to get mighty cold out."

"Oh, hang on." Twilight said. "I just learned the perfect spell for that while I was away. Give me a second."

Taking a deep breath, Twilight closed her eyes and charged the magic within her horn. Slowly, the familiar purple aura rose from her horn and swelled into size above them. After several seconds, the aura changed form into a transparent rectangle hovering over the two mares, and began to glow red around the edges. Immediately, Applejack felt a sudden wave of heat from the aura above her.

"Lansanks," she gasped with amazement. "I feel warmer already."

Twilight opened her eyes as her magic receded. "It's a space heater spell. I learned it from Princess Celestia while we were in the north."

"Gee Twilight, that was right kind of ya. Thanks."

"Don't mention it. Like I said, I do what I can for my friends."

"Yeah...friends." Applejack looked back up at the stars in pondering.

Thoughts began to race through her head faster than a swarm of fruit bats. She had been wanting to tell Twilight the truth for some time, and now seemed like the perfect moment to do it. Her thoughts yelled within her mind. How could she risk it all so suddenly? Then again, how could she not? She hadn't seen Twilight for a month, it was a beautiful night, the spell was keeping them warm, they were lying right next to each other alone. So why wasn't she ready? Could she possibly wait a bit longer to come clean?

"Hey look," said Twilight getting the distracted Applejack's attention. "I can recognize some of the constellations." She pointed a hoof to the dark sky. "There's Gildorf the Griffon. And that's Serpentina the Sea Snake. And there's even Star Swirl the Bearded."

Applejack stared at her unicorn friend on her right, not paying attention to what she was rambling about. There was something strangely soothing about her voice in the way she talked in run-on sentences. It always amazed Applejack how she was so knowledgeable as to go on for hours with her many fascinations. On top of that, she looked quite beautiful in the nighttime glow. The moonlight seemed to shimmer on her rich lavender coat, and her dark mane with the one pink stripe flowed carelessly across the grass like one of Rarity's prized fabrics. Applejack could not turn her gaze to anything else.

"And look," continued Twilight. "That's Minerva. She's the alicorn goddess of wisdom. They say that she could make any pony fall in love with her with her intellect alone. Isn't that interesting?"

Applejack began to sweat; her friend was not making it easy for her. She did not answer Twilight but instead continued to stare at her intently with an uneasiness in her shaking hooves.

Noticing her tension, Twilight turned her head to the farm pony. "Um, are you okay, Applej-"

She could not take it anymore. Immediately, Applejack threw caution to the wind and lunged over on top of Twilight, grasping her tightly. With eyes shut, she then pressed her lips hard against hers and held for as long as she could, softly moaning with desperation.

Twilight's eyes bulged and she spoke muffled orders before finally pulling her friend's head away. "Applejack, what are you doing?!"

The farm pony looked at her with wanting green eyes and reddened cheeks. "Oh Twilight, Ah'm so sorry! Ah just can't hold it in for any longer! The truth is Ah...Ah...Ah love you, Twilight!"

"You...you what?!" gasped Twilight.

"It's true." Applejack eased off the pinned down unicorn a bit. "Ah love everythin' about you, and Ah always have. The way you tell all this amazin' stuff just from readin' n' studyin'. Yer just about the smartest pony Ah know. And everything you can do with your magic is just mighty fascinatin'; especially when you showed up Trixie...twice! And everytime you saved Ponyville and Equestria from certain doom, Ah always admired how brave you were, even back to when you defeated Nightmare Moon. It's just that you amaze me in so many different ways, Twilight."

Twilight sat up trying to take all this information in. "But...if you've felt this way about me for so long, why didn't you ever tell me before?"

"Ah was too nervous." She bowed her head in embarrassment. "From the moment Ah met you when you first moved to Ponyville, Ah knew right from off bat that you would make a great friend. I felt some kind of strange connection when meetin' you, like...like you were part of mah family in a way. Ah was glad that we became pals, but over the years, Ah just became more and more attracted to you. And it's only until now that Ah finally gotten the nerve to confess. Yer everythin' Ah want to be with, Twilight. Ah'm just that much in love with you."

Twilight scanned her eyes across the ground in thought. After too long of a pause for Applejack, she finally sighed and put a hoof on the orange mare's shoulder. "AJ, I think it's great that you told me." She said with a serious look. "And I'm flattered by your affection. But...I'm not sure if I feel the same way about you."

"What are you sayin'?" asked Applejack with a sudden pain in her stomach.

"I'm saying that we shouldn't be together in a romantic way. Look, I love you, Applejack, but what we have between us is no different than what we both have with Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, or Fluttershy. I don't have anything against being in love with another mare. But if we end up in that kind of relationship, we would lose what we already have that's special. It's best that we just stay friends."

"But...but Twilight, Ah...Ah just..."

Twilight stood up and faced toward the gate in the fence nearby. "I'm sorry, AJ." She looked back avoiding eye contact. "I appreciate you spending time with me today. Have a good night." She walked off without another word and dissapeared down the dirt road.

Applejack could only stare on as the beautiful genius who she knew and loved exited her farm. There was nothing more she could do now that she was alone. With the pain in her gut now feeling like an empty void, Applejack turned and walked back to the farmhouse. She covered her face with her hat in shame, to hide her tear swollen eyes.

...

A gathering of dark clouds began to swell, as Luna's full moon was being slowly shrouded. Twilight walked along the lonely dirt road leading from Sweet Apple Acres to the rest of town. After her last awkward conversation with Applejack, she had been pondering to herself with uncertainty.

"I can't believe Applejack has been in love with me this whole time." She spoke to herself. "I sure hope I didn't let her down too badly. Hmm, maybe I should go back." She stopped in the road momentarily. "No. No, she's a tough pony; she's gotten over worse. Oh, I just hope she doesn't resent me enough to not speak to me tomorrow." Twilight sighed and continued to mosey on. But as she continued down the road, a raspy voice suddenly called from behind.

"Well well, look what we have here."

Twilight stopped and spun around. She gasped with shock as she found the source of the shady voice. Sitting on their haunches in the middle of the road were two ratty looking canines smiling at her deviously. But as she knew, they weren't just any canines; it was two of the Diamond Dogs, the very same ones who kidnapped Rarity.

"Ya know, you should be more careful," said Fido, the bulky one. "It's dangerous for pretty little mares like you to be walkin' alone at night."

Twilight stared the two dogs down with suspiscion. "What are you muts doing here? I don't want any trouble."

"Whoa whoa, take it easy, lady," replied Spot, the smaller one. "We were just in the neighborhood looking for a nice little pony to help us. You see, we're still trying to dig for" he snorted with a nazily laugh. "gemstones!"

"But we weren't gonna borrow that chatterbox friend of yours again." Fido added. "So we were just wondering if, you know, you could use some of that good old unicorn magic to help us out."

"Give me a break." Twilight snapped. "You really think I would help you dogs after abducting Rarity like that?"

"Ah c'mon," persuaded Spot. "You can trust us now. We don't bite...ponies."

"No...way," said Twilight as she turned back forward to leave. "You can find you own darn gems."

But as she began to take her leave again, her hooves were suddenly swept up by a mysterious force and she fell on her back. Immediately, Twilight found herself tied up by her hooves in a rope, as she snapper head around in confusion. Then, she spotted a figure leap down from a nearby tree branch. It was the long and lanky third member of the Diamond Dogs, Rover, who stared at her with beady eyes and a wicked smile. He trudged over to her holding the rest of the constricting rope.

"We thought ya might say that." He spoke menacingly. "So we're just gonna take you home ourselves. We need that precious magic of yours."

Twilight glared. "You want my magic? Fine! I'll give you my magic." Quickly, she began to charge her horn and prepared to make a lethal blow. But before she could cast the spell, a muddy paw stuck a bottle cork on the tip of her horn and the magic ceased completely. "What the?!" Twilight gawked.

"Save it for the gems, sweetheart." Fido said. "Yer comin' with us."

With that, the three muts dragged their captive off, pulling her by the rope. Twilight panicked; not only was she immoble, but she was now powerless without her magic. She could only cry out as she was dragged along the dirt road.

"Help! Please, somepony help me! Ah! Help!"

...

What was once a beautiful clear night just an hour ago had now become thick with clouds as Luna's moon became shrouded. Pestering rain tapped on the roof of the Apple family farmhouse while thunder rumbled in the dark and cloudy sky. A single light, from a small sidetable lamp, glowed upstairs from Applejack's bedroom, where she lay curled up in her bed clutching a pillow. The heartbroken farmer stared up at the ceiling with moistened eyes after sobbing quietly, trying not to disturb her siblings or let them know that she was crying. With a sniffle, Applejack muttered to herself.

"Smooth move, Applejack. Now she'll probably never speak to you again. Why did Ah have to open mah big mouth?" she dug her face back in her pillow. "Ah'm such a foal."

Suddenly, an elderly voice was heard outside her closed door. "Applejack?" called Granny Smith. "Are ya in there? Is everythin' alright, dear?"

Applejack sniffed and cleared her throat, trying her best to hide any sign that everything in fact wasn't alright. "Uh, yeah Granny Smith. Ah'm just a little sleepy is all."

"Well, don't fall asleep yet." Granny Smith replied. "Ah need ya to put on yer coat, go outside n' get rid of that screamin' cat in the yard. Ah can hardly sleep with that racket." Her voice trailed off as she walked off down the hall.

At that point, Applejack shifted focus with a puzzled look. "Screamin' cat?" She got up from her bed and approached the rain drenched window. She squinted to see through the cluster of falling drops outside. There was no sign of any cat or other troubled animal on the grassy yard; but there was difinitely a faint screaming sound. Just then, Applejack's eyes caught movement on the dirt road over yonder. After squinting even more, she gasped. Speeding along the road were the infamous Diamond Dogs, with one of them hauling something on his shoulder. To Applejack's horror, it was Twilight hogtied in rope.

She looked in disbelief at her beloved friend being dragged off by the mangy muts. It was then that her sadness became replaced with a mix of anger and determination. Applejack spoke softly.

"Ah'm comin', sugarcube." She said before running downstairs without her raincoat.

...

As the rain poured rapidly, the Diamond Dogs waited outside Ponyville by the foot bridge over the river, with their captive still in paw. Fido and Rover looked at Spot grudgingly.

"Remind me again why you thought it was a good idea to go into Ponyville just to use the bathroom?" asked Rover skeptically.

"C'mon, we were closer." Spot argued. "I wasn't gonna make it to the bathroom back home."

"What do you care?" glared Fido. "We're dogs! Everywhere is the bathroom, you idiot!"

"Ugh, will you disgusting muts let please let me go?!" yelled Twilight. "You smell awful!"

"It's the rain!" replied Rover. "And you're just gonna have to keep screaming for help, missy. Because nopony is gonna hear ya!"

"Hey fleabags!"

Just then, the canines turned around to the sound of a new harsh voice. Standing a distance away from the bridge was an orange female earth pony with a stetson hat covering her blonde mane. She stared them down with menacing green eyes ignoring the rain dripping over her scowling face. Stepping forward a bit, she continued to threaten the dogs.

"If you so much as lay one dirty paw on her pretty little head," snarled Applejack. "Ah'll applebuck ya'll into next year!"

"Ha!" Spot cackled as he approached and got close to her face. "I'd like to see ya try, cowpoke!"

Without hesitation, Applejack turned around, reaer up on her horelegs and kicked both her back ones straight into the scrawny mut. With a comical scream, Spot was launched into the distance, having just been applebucked into next year.

"Applejack, help!" cried Twilight, still tied up.

"Hold on, Twi!" replied Applejack as she prepared to run up the bridge. But a shadow swept over her and she was suddenly forced to the ground, plopping onto her stomach. A heavyset dog sat upon her back.

"You're not gonna stop us this time, little pony." Fido seethed.

"Oh not this crap again." Applejack strained as she slowly stood back up with the load on her back. Furiously, she began bucking wildly left and right, trying to shake off the fat dog. Fido struggled to keep on her back as he started to bounce and slip off. Having enough, Applejack finally paused and reared back on her hind legs. In one fell swoop, she lunged forward fipped, somersaulting onto her back and crushing Fido underneath. The bulkey dog moaned in pain, but the rough and tumble mare was not done yet.

Applejack turned over and pinned Fido on his back. In a fit of rage, she began landing punches across both his cheeks and continued until ultimately knocking him out cold. She stopped and panted after the beating; but then the voice of her damsel in distress called over.

"Ah! Applejack!" screamed Twilight.

Applejack turned back toward the bridge and looked over in shock.

With a demonic smile, Rover was now holding his paw out over the bridge. "Looking for something?" he taunted as he dangled the helpless unicorn over the water.

"Twilight! No!" gasped Applejack and charged toward her friend in need. But before she could get close enough, Rover let his grip slide and Twilight plummeted into the river.

Applejack screeched to a halt. "You monster!" she yelled.

"Ya think we still need her?" replied Rover. "We'll just find some other unicorn to help us. They're all the same."

"Not the one Ah love!" WIth that, Applejack removed her hat and threw it into the air.

Rover gazed up puzzled at the flying headwear, leaving him too distracted to notice the orange hoof hurdling toward him from the side. It slammed across his face with the force of a speeding pegasus, knocking out a few teeth and leaving his nose bloodied and his eye blackened. Rover rolled over into unconciousness.

Without reflecting over the knockout, Applejack put her hooves on the edge of the bridge and peered down. There was no sign of Twilight floating in the water; it had to have been deep enough for her to sink to the bottom. Applejack quickly got up on the edge and leaped into the cold river. The current, luckily, was not strong enough to carry her off, so she dove beneath the surface holding plenty of oxygen in her lungs. After surveying the murky bottom, she swam downward in search of her sunken friend. It wasn't long before the bottom appeared into view, and lying on it was Twilight still in her binds; her eyes were shut and her body was motionless.

Applejack perked up and quickly moved down to scoop Twilight into her hooves. She then kicked her legs rapidly to swim back up with the librarian in her grasp. At last, she broke the surface gasping for air and paddled over under the bridge, where she laid Twilight on the muddy riverbank. Applejack was now soaking wet and panting tiredly; but she knew her friend was more important and removed the rope and cork as she spoke.

"Twilight! Twilight, it's me, wake up!" she urged as she patted her face with no response. "C'mon, Twi, wake up!"

It became apparent that Twilight had long run out of breath, so Applejack changed methods. She gently pulled the unicorn's lips open and breathed life into her mouth, beginning CPR. It felt ironic to her that she was now getting the chance to lock lips with her again. After the first breath, Applejack then pushed down on Twilight's chest three times, in short quick bursts. Still seeing no reaction, she breathed into her mouth again and repeated the process, with fruitless results.

"Darn it all, don't you die on me! C'mon! Please!" she panicked as tears welled up in her eyes.

Over and over, Applejack continued to perform CPR on her lifeless friend. But it soon looked as though Twilight was completely gone. After breathing more and more into her mouth, Applejack eventually found herself pressing her face against Twilight's and crying again.

"Twilight..." she sobbed with her voice cracking. "Ah'm so sorry. Ah never should have ruined what we had; Ah never should have made you leave...It's mah fault...Ah'm sorry..." she finally broke down and rested her head on Twilight's chest. "Oh...Twilight, please...don't go..."

...

"...Applejack?"

Applejack's eyes opened wide at the sound of the voice. Immediately, she snapped her head up and locked sight with two glimmering violet eyes. Sitting up, Applejack rejoiced at the sight of her friend's waking face.

"Twilight!" she quickly wrapped her hooves around her for a brief moment before continuing. "Ah'm sorry Ah ever left this happen to you. Ah don't care if we're friends or lovers. If you're ever in trouble, you know Ah will always be there."

"I know, Applejack." Twilight smiled and spoke softly. "You saved my life, and that's all that matters. Thank you." She then reached up and hugged Applejack, digging her face in her savior's shoulder.

Applejack returned her warm embrace, but soon felt a faint trembling in her. "Twilight, are you okay?" she asked, feeling her back heaving.

Twilight pulled away now looking at her with tearful eyes. "Oh Applejack, I was so scared. Those dogs didn't care if I lived or died; they just dropped me in the water like that. I really thought I was going to drown before you came for me. If it wasn't for you, I...I..." her lip quivered as she lost her composure.

Applejack pulled Twilight back into a hug, letting her cry into her shoulder. "It's alright, sugarcube. Ah'm here, you're safe now."

After a minute of silence, Twilight simmered down and raised her head back up to face her friend closely. "Applejack...I love you too."

Applejack gawked. "You...you mean it?"

"Of course. I don't see any reason why I wouldn't. You're strong, loyal, and hardworking, and the way you took down those dogs reminded me how brave you are. But most importantly, you're the pony I trust more than any other. I mean, you're the Element of Honesty; how can I argue with that? When you told me to let go when I was hanging on that ledge on our way to stop Nightmare Moon, that was the first moment I ever put that much trust into anypony. You saved my life then, and you would always do it again afterwards."

"Well, it's like you said," shrugged Applejack. "I would do anything for a friend."

"Would you do the same for a lover?" asked Twilight knowingly.

Applejack smiled at her long time crush and lay down on the bank next to her. Then, Twilight once again wrapped her hooves around her, nuzzling her neck.

"Hold me, AJ." She whipsered.

Slowly, Applejack pulled her close with both hooves and kissed Twilight on the forehead, as they waited under the bridge for the rain to stop.

...

Later that night, Twilight and Applejack found themselves in the same spot they were earlier looking up at the stars. This time, they lay in a tilted wagon full of hay with Applejack holding Twilight close. They both enjoyed the nice dry comfort of the hay after being soaking wet in the now passed rainstorm.

"So ya really wanna do this, Twi?" Applejack asked her while stroking her purple mane. "Bein' a couple and all?"

"Absolutely." Twilight answered breathing across Applejack's neck. "We would make a great couple. I can really see us like this in the future."

"You know somethin'?...Me too." Applejack continued to stare at the stars some more before speaking again. "So...now what?"

Twilight raised her head. "What do you mean?"

"Well, where do we take it from here? I mean, are we gonna start datin' now?"

"We'll just take it one step at a time. We still have our whole lives ahead of us; living together, marriage, maybe even kids...and uh, other stuff."

Applejack darted her eyes in thought imagining the reality of Twilight's words. "Eh, you're right. We'll just take it slow fer now."

"Yeah, let's just keep lying here for a while."

"There's just one thing Ah'm wonderin'...what are we gonna tell everypony?"

Twilight paused. "Oh yeah...I haven't really thought about that. Hmm...what now?..."

What Now

Chapter 2: What Now

"You know, Twi," said Applejack sitting across from her partner. "I really didn't think you'd agree to, you know, bein' in a relationship with me and what not. What made you change your mind so fast?"

"Are you kdding?" replied Twilight on the other side of the table. "After you saved my life last night, I can never thank you enough. I'm forever grateful."

"I'm just sayin', it kinda seems like things are movin' a bit fast here. Now that we're actually doin' this, I feel like I was talkin' big game yesterday." Applejack rubbed the back of her head. "Maybe I'm just still nervous."

"Don't be. I guess I was just swept up in the moment last night." Twilight shrugged, feeling some of her partner's anxiety. "But that shouldn't mean we can't still be together. After all, if we came this far as good friends, we should make it longer as, you know, marefriends." That last word still sounded strange to her.

"Yeah, you're right. As long as we're takin' it one step at a time." Applejack paused and swirled her glass of water, letting the sound of the other ponies' chatter briefly wash over. "So, remind me again why we're at the cafe?"

"Well, we have to break the news at some point, right?" answered Twilight. "So I've invited a friend to meet us here so we can tell her. I just want to kind of test the water to see how everypony will react."

"Uh, okay. Who'd you invite then?"

"Um, Twilight? You wanted to see me?" came a hushed female voice.

Applejack snapped to the right to see Fluttershy standing with a curious look. Twilight greeted her with a smile.

"Ah, Fluttershy, glad you could make it." She said. "Have a seat."

"Um, okay." Fluttershy took the third chair, then cringed nervously. "Oh my, uh, Twilight, this isn't about me letting my woodpeckers loose in the library that one time, is it?"

"No, no, of course it...wait what?" stammered Twilight. "Woodpeckers?"

"Uh Twilight," Applejack chimed in. "Isn't there somethin' we have to tell her?"

"Oh right, yes." Twilight cleared her throat and spoke as proffesionally as she could. "You see, Fluttershy, something has happened concerning me and Applejack. But we're still kind of nervous about telling our friends, so we thought you would be the right pony to break the news to first. We just want to know how you'll react before we tell anypony else."

"Why do you keep sayin' 'we'?" asked Applejack unanswered.

Fluttershy shrugged and smiled. "Oh, of course, Twilight. You two can tell me anything. I promise I'll take the news well, no matter how shocking it might be."

"Oh, well that's a relief." Twilight replied. "You see, there was a...particular incident last night, that occured after Applejack and I were stargazing in her yard. Applejack had just told me that she, uh...has been looking at me in a certain different light. And I was a little more than hesitant to agree with her. Then, as I was leaving the farm, I happened to come across, get this, you remember the Diamond Dogs who captured Rarity? Well as it turned out-"

"Fluttershy, Twilight n' I are in love." Applejack interrupted impatiently.

Fluttershy stared blankly between the two of them. "Wh- what?" she squeaked.

Applejack continued quickly. "Last night, I told Twilight that I was in love with her, but she didn't want to be in love with me and left. Then she got captured by the Diamond Dogs who tried to drown her, then I saved her and she became forever grateful and now we're in love."

Still, Fluttershy stared with confusion. "You mean...you two are...are..."

As she tried to utter the rest of her sentence, Twilight gave a sheepish smile and rested her hoof upon Applejack's to prove a point. After a long pause, Fluttershy at last let her face fall to the table and fainted.

...

It wasn't long before Twilight and Applejack carried their fragile pegasus friend back to her cottage. Twilight pulled the covers over Fluttershy as she spoke.

"Okay, that was a bit of a misfire." She said flatly. "Applejack, do you have to be so blunt?"

"Uh, Element of Honesty? It's kinda what I do?" replied Applejack, rolling her eyes. "And Twilight, I love ya, but you really know how to milk an explanation."

"Well it doesn't matter." Twilight sunk her head. "If we tell anypony else, who knows how they'll react?"

"Relax, sugarcube, it's just Fluttershy. She did the same thing when Angel went missin' for five minutes. If we're gonna tell anypony about you n' me bein' a couple, it's gonna be a friend who ain't so weak in the knees."

"Good point. But who else should we break it to?"

...

Shortly after, Twilight magically levitated herself and Applejack as she knocked on the door. Sure enought, the owner of the cloud house answered.

"Hi Rainbow Dash," greeted Twilight. "Can we come inside? We have some pretty big news."

The blue pegasus scanned her eyes between her two friends, then lowered her eyelids and replied. "You guys are dating now, aren't you?"

Both mares gasped before Applejack spoke. "How...how did you know?" she asked.

"Please, I'm no Rarity but I know a thing or two about romances." Rainbow scoffed. "I've been waiting to see you two get together for ages; it was only a matter of time. I mean, Twilight's brains and Applejack's brawn? It's obvious you two would make a perfect couple. Plus, Twilight's putting her hoof over your shoulders, AJ."

Applejack looked quizzically at her marefriend, who immediately withdrew her hoof with an awkward smile.

"So, you're not shocked at all?" asked Twilight.

"Shocked? No way," smiled Rainbow. "I'm totally cool with it. It's not like things are gonna change much. Besides, I got nothing against filly fooling."

Applejack blushed. "Heh heh, well, I don't know if I would put it that way. I mean, uh, eh, n- n- never mind..."

"But listen," resumed Rainbow. "If you want to shock anypony, go tell Rarity. She'll totally flip!"

"Well, I guess she deserves to know too." Twilight replied. "Thanks for being so understanding, Rainbow."

"Hey, don't worry about it, Twi. In fact, I'm kind of jealous of you, being marefriends with a pony like Applejack."

Applejack cocked an eyebrow at her. "You are?"

Rainbow quickly wiped the grin off her face and darted her eyes. "Um...uh...gotta go!" she slammed the cloud door without another word.

The couple stood outside silent for a moment.

"So, should we head over to Rarity's?" asked Applejack.

"Yeah, let's go." Twilight answered.

...

"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!! OH MY GOSH I CANNOT BELIEVE IT!!!!!!!!!!!!"

The two marefirends cringed as Rarity shrieked with joy. She squeezed both Twilight and Applejack in a suffocating hug as they sat on her couch in the boutique lounge.

"Oh I am just so happy for you two!" she beamed. "You'll absolutely make such a great couple! OOH, I am so excited for you!"

A slightly uncomfortable Twilight replied. "Wow Rarity, you seem to be taking this...pretty well."

"Are you kidding? I couldn't be happier to hear that you and Applejack are a couple. You two will just be absolutely adorable together!" Rarity fluttered her long lashes. "The only thing that would make even more adorable is if I was in it."

Applejack tried her hardest to hold back a gag reflex.

"Well, we just wanted to stop by to let you know." Twilight continued casually as she got up from the couch. "Glad you could be so understanding. We'll just be on our way."

"What? Why in Equestria would you leave after telling me this wonderful news? I have just the thing for the two of you!"

"Uh, Rarity, where is this goin'?" asked Applejack.

Without an answer, Rarity dissapeared into a closet where the sound of excited rummaging was then heard. After a brief moment, she sprang back out levitating two modified versions of Twilight's and Applejack's gala dresses, complete with ribbons and, of course, gemstones.

"I have been working on these for quite some time now." She ranted. "And I think they are just the thing for the cutest mare couple on a romantic night out."

Twilight looked puzzled at her remade dress, then smiled nonchalantly. "Rarity, Applejack and I just decided to become a couple last night. It's not like we're about to get married."

A bead of sweat dripped down Applejack's neck.

"Oh I understand completely, Twilight dear," replied Rarity with a flick of her hoof. "But I musn't let you two love birds go without some fabulous garments to celebrate. Ooh, let's try yours on first, Applejack!"

"Beg pardon?" said Applejack.

Without an answer, Rarity levitated Applejack off the couch and slipped the modified dress on her in a blur of movement. Applejack stood glowering having to wear the stuffy formal attire again.

"Ah, I knew it!" chirped Rarity. "You look absolutely marvelous. But that's obvious, since it was sewn by me, of course."

Twilight snickered at her marefirend's disdain. But she had to admit that Applejack looked surprisingly stunning in her green skirt, lapels and boots with apple symbols, and decorative saddle. In the back of her mind, Twilight wondered how she would impress the farmer with her own dress.

"Twilight, can we please go?" sulked Applejack.

"Yeah, you're right." Twilight shrugged. "Thanks a lot, Rarity, the dresses look fantastic. But we should head over to Pinkie's."

"Oh of course, darling." Rarity smiled. "I'm ever so happy you like my work."

Applejack struggled as she tried to chew off the saddle which had been strapped on too tight; Twilight only giggled a bit more.

...

Later that day, the couple sat at a table in Sugarcube Corner discussing over hay shakes. Pinkie Pie listened as they explained the news to her.

"So Applejack saved you from the Diamond Dogs, and you became forever grateful, and now you both want to be together?" Pinkie cocked her head.

"Uh, yeah, that's basically what I just said." Twilight answered flatly.

"Wait, that's basically what you just said?" repeated Pinkie.

"Pinkie, cut it out." Applejack replied.

"Holy gosh!" gawked Pinkie. "I can't believe you two are actually dating after all this time."

"So, are you...happy for us?" asked Twilight, leading her on.

"Happy? I'm ecstatic!" Pinkie threw her hooves up as mysterious confetti seemed to spring up from nowhere. "I couldn't be more ecstatic! I'm absolutely positively one hundred-percently EXTRA ecstatic! Did I tell you I just learned the word 'ecstatic' today? It's funny because it has the word 'static' in it!" She then began to rub her mane vigorously with a balloon.

Twilight gave a crooked stare. "...Right. Well, we already told Fluttershy, Rainbow, and Rarity, so I guess that pretty much wraps it up."

"But do us favor, will ya, Pinkie?" added Applejack. "Try to keep this whole thing on the down low? We're still a bit nervous about how everypony else in town might react."

"Oh no sweat, Applejack! I promise I'll only discuss it with you two. And that's a Pinkie promise! Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake, yadda yadda yadda. Hey, you know what? This calls for a celebration. Daffodil burgers on me!"

"Now we're talkin'!" smiled Applejack.

"But first...SMILE!" Pinkie then pulled out a camera from hammerspace and took a picture. An overly bright flash left Twilight and Applejack both temporarily blinded.

Twilight covered her eyes with her hoof. "Ah! Pinkie, what was that for?!"

Pinkie spoke as she waved the polaroid. "Oh, I always take a photo of every new couple in the bakery. I have a whole collage full of them!" She then walked over to a stretch of wall covered in photos of Ponyville couples; all of whom were just as surprised by the flash as Twilight and Applejack. Pinkie gasped as she hung her new photo. "Uh oh. Sorry, AJ, but it looks like you have redeye in this picture."

Applejack rubbed her stunned eyes. "Yup. I sure do now."

As the afternoon drew to a close, Twilight and Applejack enjoyed a secret celebratory dinner and dessert with Pinkie; plenty of hay shakes were there to go around. Eventually, the two exited Sugarcube Corner as the sun rested on the horizon.

Twilight breathed a sigh of relief. "Hah, finally. My head feels so much clearer now that we've told our friends. Now we can finally start a real relationship; just the two of us."

"Yeah...that's great." Applejack looked away dowerly.

"AJ, what's wrong?" asked Twilight. "Aren't you excited?"

"Of course I am, Twi, I couldn't be happier to be your marefriend. And I'm glad that our friends know about us. But...I don't think my family will take it so easily. Granny Smith had always been hopin' that I would end up with a nice stallion. But she'll probably lose her teeth if she found out we're datin'."

"Well, it's better with me than a strange stallion, isn't it?"

"I...I guess so." Applejack scuffed the ground. "But it's gonna be mighty uncomfortable tellin' her, Big Mac and Apple Bloom. And I'm gonna have to do it at some point."

Feeling her companion's nervousness, Twilight gave a comforting nuzzle to her neck and smiled. "It's alright; you take as much time as you need. I'll try not to push you."

Looking up, Applejack returned a half smile. "Thanks, Twilight. Well, uh, I should head home before it gets dark. I'll see you later, Twi."

"Good night, Applejack." Twilight replied.

With that, Applejack gently kissed her on the cheek and started off for home.

But Twilight didn't feel satisfied with that goodbye and remained standing while watching the strong yet caring mare trot away. She knew she couldn't stay in her spot much longer, and finally cantered off after the love of her life. Twilight turned Applejack around after catching up and locked her lips with hers in a wanting kiss. Applejack's eyes widened as she felt the rush from the unicorn's sweet lips, and embraced each warm passing moment. The both of them held their locked lips for several more seconds before Twilight parted and looked at her partner innocently.

"You do know we can make this work, right?" she asked.

Applejack stared at her for a moment before grinning knowingly. "Trust me, sugarcube."

Hearts And Hooves Day

Chapter 3: Heats And Hooves Day

As the days became warmer, love began to fill the air once again. It was Hearts and Hooves Day and the citizens of Ponyville were with their special somepony. It would also be the first for a certain fledgling mare couple.

Twilight read a novel while lying beneath a shady tree on a hill in Sweet Apple Acres. As she enjoyed the book, so did she enjoy the view. Nearby, her own special somepony raced through the orchards bucking apple trees left and right. Twilight watched Applejack at work with admiration; she reflected back to the day they had met when she thought saw applebucking as a strange way to harvest fruit. But as she watched Applejack ram her powerful hooves into the trees, it was now quite exhilerating to see, like an athlete at the Equestrian Games.

As Twilight stared on at her hardworking marefriend, a deep male voice was heard from behind.

"Howdy."

Twilight turned around suddenly. "Oh, hi Big Macintosh," she smiled at the big red draftpony. "Hope I'm not getting in the way."

"Not at all." Big Macintosh replied. "Ya know, Applejack's been talkin' a lot about ya lately."

"Um...she has?"

"Eeyup. She's been goin' on about how smart and good with magic you are; she even says yer pretty. Ah don't know why, but she seems mighty...um..." he looked to the side to think of a word.

"...infatuated?" suggested Twilight.

"Eeyup, that." He grinned.

Twilight began to blush. "Wow, she really said I was pretty?"

"Just thought Ah'd let you know; it's kinda weird. But Ah gotta say, Ah can't blame her. Why, Ah think yer beautiful too."

"You do?" Twilight raised her eyebrows.

"This probably seems a might silly," said Big Macintosh as he scratched his head. "But Ah've kinda been crazy about you fer a while."

Twilight paused, suddenly feeling awkward. "Oh, uh, that's really sweet of you, Big Mac. I had no idea."

"Well, Ah just wanted to get that off my chest. Ah'll see ya 'round, Twilight." He walked off, beginning to blush himself.

"Yeah, have a nice day." Twilight replied, then thought to herself as he left. This sudden truth from Big Macintosh had her pondering. She always thought he was a nice stallion, but never knew he was smitten for her. But she srugged her pondering off, feeling that his sister's love was stronger.

As she returned her mind to reality, she heard the sound of tired panting approaching her and looked up. Applejack walked over to her with sweat dripping down her face.

"Whew! Beat my record!" she said proudly. "I'd like to see my brother top that."

"You certainly know how to build up a workout." Twilight nudged her lovingly. "Why don't we get some cold cider?"

"Actually, Twi, I kinda wanted to ask you somethin'."

"What is it?"

Applejack took her time, wiping the sweat from her brow and slowing down her breathing. "Uh, I was wonderin', ya know, since it's Hearts and Hooves Day n' all, um, if you wanted to, uh...go out tonight?"

"You mean on a date?"

"Uh, yeah, a date."

Twilight paused for a moment, then smiled. "I'd love to! I was even thinking about asking you the same thing."

"Oh, heh heh, that's great." Applejack tried to calm herself. "Um, I was thinkin' we could get dinner at Hors d'Oeurves tonight."

"Hors d'Oeurves? That's the fanciest resturaunt in Ponyville. You sure you want to pay for that kind of place? It's awfully expensive."

"Well, I just wanted to make our first date the best one."

"Applejack, that is so thoughtful." Twilight touched her shoulder and laid a kiss on her cheek. "So, uh, how about we meet tonight at seven?"

"Sure thing; I'll drop by the library after all the chores are done."

"Great." Twilight then wrapped her hooves around her. "Our first date! I don't think I can wait all day."

"Me neither, sugarcube." Applejack returned her embrace. "I'm gonna make this Hearts and Hooves Day a special one."

...

That night, Applejack walked up to the Ponyville library with a bouquet of flowers in her mouth. She knocked on the door before quickly hiding the roses behind her back. As she breathed on her hoof, checking the odor, the door opened a crack and a purple face poked out.

"Are ya ready?" asked Applejack with a smile.

"You bet I am." Twilight answered and opened the door the rest of the way.

Applejack gasped. There in the glow from inside was Twilight in her gala apparel. She looked positively astonishing in her big midnight blue dress with embroidered star designs, and teal glass shoes with the same theme. Even her mane looked especially beautiful, as she must have been using herbal conditioners borrowed from Rarity. Applejack stood with her jaw hanging, as she gazed at her dazzling date.

"What do you think?" asked Twilight.

Applejack shook herself off. "Lansanks, Twi, you look amazin'!"

"Well, I just thought I'd take Rarity's advice for a night out." She fluttered her eyelashes, imitating Rarity.

"Ah gee, now I feel rediculous for not dressin' up."

"Don't worry about it, AJ, you're beautiful with or without your dress."

Applejack blushed, then remembered her gift. "Oh, uh, I got ya these from Rose." She held out the bouqet.

Twilight lit up. "Oh Applejack, they're lovely!" She took the flowers and sniffed them. "You certainly know how to please a mare."

"I guess you have to be one to please one. Shall we, uh, mosey on over?" Applejack extended her elbow.

"Absolutely." Twilight took her foreleg and the two were off on their first night out.

It wasn't long before the couple arrived at the ritziest resturaunt in town. Stepping inside, they became surrounded by snappy dressed ponies seated at clothed tables and plush booths, chatting over elaborately prepared meals. Being it Hearts and Hooves Day, there were many couples toasting to their anniversaries, young and old; even a few stallions got down on one knee and popped the question. Now it was Twilight's and Applejack's turn to take in the high class romantic atmosphere, as they stepped up to the maitre d'.

"Bonjour, madames," greeted the head waiter with a Prench accent. "You have a reservation?"

"Applejack, party o' two, please." Applejack answered with a wink to her date.

The maitre d' checked the list then replied. "Right zis way, madamoiselles."

The two marefriends were led to a neatly set table for two next to a window, as the maitre d' gave them their menus. "One of our waiters will come along to take your orders shortly."

"Thank you, sir." Twilight replied as he left. She then turned to her date. "Wow, this place is so classy. I've never been here before."

"Neither have I," said Applejack. "But what better time to try somethin' new?"

As they read through their menus, a waiter approached the table.

"Good evening, ladies," he greeted. "May I start you two off with something to drink?"

"Um, we'll have a bottle of your finest cider." Applejack answered, but then turned to Twilight. "I mean, if that's okay with you." She was met with a nod.

"Very nice; I'll be right back with some nice Chateau Golden Deliscious."

With that, Twilight and Applejack were left in awkward silence. Nothing was heard except for the ominous chatter and the soft piano playing from afar.

"So uh...what should we talk about?" asked Applejack.

"Well, I guess we should do what these other ponies are doing and tell a bit about each other."

"But we already know everything about each other."

"...Oh yeah, good point."

They sat in silence a bit more.

Twilight tapped her fork in thought. "Um...I have a dentist appointment in a week."

"Hmm." Applejack took a sip of her water. "I uh...I just bought a new set of work boots. Yup, they're perfect for dirt...and mud...so yeah."

"That's nice." Twilight muttered.

As even more silence settled in, the waiter returned with a bottle and two glasses. "Here's your cider, ladies." He said, pouring them both a glass.

"Thanks." Applejack immediately took a sip.

"And are you two about ready to order?"

Twilight looked at the menu. "Yes, I think I'll have the stuffed daffodils with the Prench onion soup, please."

"Sounds good." The waiter replied and turned to the other mare. "And for you, miss?"

Applejack stared at the menu, unsure. She hadn't even decided yet since most of the items on the menu seemed less than appetizing, being in small delicate portions. But, not wanting to look like a foal in front of her date, she picked the first thing from her mind.

"Um, I'll have yer biggest veggie steak, medium rare. And with mashed taters on the side."

"Excellent choice, ladies. I'll take your menus and have your meals ready soon."

"Thank you." Twilight said as he left.

Another minute passed and still, the two marefriends sat with no conversation.

Twilight sighed. "Wow, do we really have nothing to talk about?"

"I'm sorry, Twi, I feel mighty awkward. This used to be so much easier when we were, you know, just friends."

"Well, we could talk like we're still just friends. I'm sure it won't be any different now that we're dating. Why don't you tell one of your farmers' jokes?"

"Oh yeah!" Applejack smiled. "Uh let's see...ah, I got one. Did ya hear the one about the thief who stole a rooster and a steer?"

"No, what about it?"

Applejack snickered as she tried to keep back a laugh. "Never mind, it's a cock and bull story!" She then burst out in uncontrollable laughter, drawing stink eyes from the table behind her.

Twilight tried her best to chuckle along. "...heh heh..."

After several more minutes, the waiter finally showed up with two covered plates which he placed before them.

"Here you are, ladies. Stuffed daffodils and a veggie steak. Enjoy."

"Thanks again." Twilight said and gazed at her meal happily. "Mm, these look so good."

Applejack looked down at her cut of the resturaunt's biggest veggie steak, which couldn't have any larger than her hoof. But she took solace in the tantalizing cooked color and reached for a fork. Then, she hesitated when she saw five different ones next to her plate, along with three different knives and four types of spoons, all varying in size.

"Um, which one is the steak fork?" she asked awkwardly.

Twilight replied. "Just start on the right and work your way across."

"You mean I have to eat steak with a spoon?"

Twilight giggled as her date hovered her hoof over the silverware.

"Eh, I'll just start with the mashed potatoes." Applejack shrugged. "Tarnation, this is more confusin' than when I visited Appleloosa."

"Wait, what?" perked up Twilight. "You never told me about that."

"Oh I didn't? Well, it's nothin', really; just this whole crazy thing."

"Oh come on, tell me. I'd love to know."

Applejack smiled, realizing that she finally had dinner conversation. "Well you see, Braeburn n' I were tryin' to pull this prank on Sheriff Silver Star. But then, a swarm of locusts came and...

From that moment, the date was going off without a hitch. They finally began chatting and sharing past events as they ate their five star meals and drank their sparkling cider with joy. Still feeling hungry even after her veggie steak, Applejack felt like spurging a little and ordered desserts for the both of them. She soon started chomping away at a slice of chocolate cake, while Twilight delicately ate a bowl of pure vanilla ice cream. With bellies full, the two eventually asked for the bill which the waiter brought right away. Twilight stared at the paper with a straight face.

"Somethin' wrong, Twilight?" asked Applejack, finishing off the cider.

"Uh...you might want to keep sitting for this." Twilight showed her the bill.

Applejack spewed the drink from her mouth after reading the total. "Sweet Sun of Celestia! That can't be right!"

"Well, everything we ordered is on here; and it's quite a lot. Is it too much?"

"Uh...no," stammered Applejack trying not to lose her cool in front of her marefriend. "Um, you don't mind splittin' the bill do ya?"

"How are we going to split $91.43?"

"I don't know, you're the smart one. Can't you use some fancy unicorn algera or somethin'?"

"Applejack, I'm a librarian, not a calculator."

"Is there a problem?" asked the waiter who approached the table.

"Oh, no problem, it's fine." Twilight gave a fake smile.

The waiter then turned to Applejack. "You know, if you're having trouble paying your bill, don't worry about leaving a tip. You seem like you probably don't have that much on you."

Applejack cocked an eyebrow at him. "What's that supposed to mean?"

"Well, I was a bit surprised at how much you ordered. No offense, but you don't look like the kind of pony who could top a bill like this."

"Are you sayin' I can't afford a darn dinner?" retorted Applejack a bit peaved.

"Applejack, let it go." Twilight whispered.

"No, no," continued the waiter. "All I'm saying is that I don't mind taking a bit off for a simple blue collar pony like you."

"Listen, buckaroo," glared Applejack. "I don't need no snobby wait staff tellin' me what I can and can't afford. This is my date, and I can darn well pay for it with double tip!"

The waiter scoffed. "Look, why don't you just split the total with your pretty little filly and go back to growing your potatoes."

"That's it!"

Putting her napkin on the table, Applejack stood up from her chair and gave the obnoxious waiter a nice swift applebuck. The kick made him spin in place then collapse to the floor, causing surrounding customers to gasp at the brutish behavior. As the piano music came to a stop, Twilight used her magic to lift up the dazed waiter's head.

"Ugh, hey thanks, babe," he said to her. "Listen, if you ever start liking stalions again, why don't you ditch this hillbilly and come with-"

Without letting him finish, Twilight's magic aura began slamming his head onto the table repeatedly. She narrowed her eyes as she spoke.

"She...doesn't...grow...potatoes!"

As the waiter fell to the carpet again, Applejack sat back down. She looked at Twilight, surprised at her sudden aggressiveness. "Uh...thanks." She said.

"Don't mention it." Twilight smiled again.

Applejack then scratched the back of her head again. "Um, Twilight, I gotta be honest. I actually don't have enough money on me. I guess I overdid it with the orders."

"No worries, AJ, I'll pay for everything."

"Are you sure? I mean, I'm the one who asked you out after all."

"It's the least I can do."

Applejack smiled back at her. "Thanks a bunch, Twi."

Just then, the maitre d' arrived to assess the situation. "Sacre bleu, is zere a problem?" he asked worriedly.

"Yes, I'll have you know that yer busboy here was just rudely insultin' us." Applejack answered pointing to the unconcious waiter.

"Oh mon dieu!" replied the maitre d'. "I am terribly sorry, madame. I would not allow such a disgrace in my wait staff. If it will make you feel better, I will take away your bill and your meals will be free of charge."

"Really? You will?" lit up Twilight.

"Bien sur! I cannot let two beautiful mares like yourselves be insulted on such a romantic day. I do hope you both have a lovely evening."

"Well thank ya kindly, mister!" replied Applejack as the Prench pony walked off with the bill. She then turned to her date. "See? Don't I know how to take care of you?"

Twilight laughed before leaning over to smooch her lovable companion.

Later that night, the date ended with Twilight and Applejack sitting together on the balcony of the library. The two gazed at the shimmering stars in Luna's night sky as they were coated in the warmth from inside. Applejack cuddled up next to Twilight whose dress matched the dark sky and her mane glistened under the moonlight.

"Ya know, you can keep any fancy resturaunt," said Applejack. "All I really need for a perfect date is being next to you."

"I couldn't agree more." Twilight smiled. "Happy Hearts and Hooves Day, Applejack."

"Same to you, Twi."

As they held each other in a soft embrace, they both laid a long and passionate kiss on the other's lips, holding for several seconds. That is, until a friendly voice called from the air.

"Twilight! Applejack!"

The couple parted suddenly and looked up to see Fluttershy floating above the balcony, flapping her wings.

"Congratulations, guys." She said to them. "I'm so glad to see you two are dating now. You'll make such a great couple. Well, have a good night!" Fluttershy flew off without another word.

Twilight and Applejack looked on as the mood was slightly doused.

"Oh yeah, forgot about her." Applejack said.

Twilight spoke while still looking on. "You still want to make out?"

"Yeah sure."

Spicing Things Up

Chapter 4: Spicing Things Up

Quite some time had passed, and Twilight and Applejack had firmly established their romance. With a few more dates under her belt, Applejack had become well suited to showing her unicorn other a good time. But, she still felt inept at pleasing Twilight formally on their usual outings.

Eventually, she purchased a self-help record on picking up mares, after convincing the clerk that it was a gift for her brother. Applejack returned home with the audio guide hoping it would give her the right lines to impress her marefriend. After making sure she was completely home alone, she sat in the living room of the farmhouse and spun the record on the player. She wore a blank stare as she listened to the voice of an edgy stallion from the record.

"What's up, dude?" the voice greeted in the manner of a skater. "I'm here to help you get your A-game on with the ladies! First off, what's your name?"

"Applejack." She awkwardly replied to nopony.

"Right on! But I think I'll just call you pal."

"Oh dear Celestia." Applejack sulked, instantly regreting her purchase.

"Now, the key to winning over even the hottest chick is to know the right words. Use these lines, and they'll come to you like moths to a light. Try these out. 'Hey babe, are you an alien? 'Cause you are out of this world!'"

"'Are you an alien? 'Cause you are out of this world.'" Applejack repeated uncomfortably.

"'Do you have a map? 'Cause I think I'm lost in your eyes.'"

"'Do you have a map? 'Cause I think I'm lost in your eyes.'"

"'If I could rearrange the alphabet, I'd put you and me together.'"

"...Wait, what?"

"'Are you a pegasus? Because I think you lost a pair of wings.'"

"That one doesn't even make sense!"

"'Are you a sailor? Because I want to be your dream boat.'"

"Ugh, that's enough of this. What a waste of twenty bits."

Applejack stopped the record, suddenly feeling the need to take a shower. Then, she heard a knock on the front door. She walked over to answer and found Rainbow Dash standing outside.

"Oh, hey Applejack." The pegasus greeted.

"Howdy, Rainbow," smiled Applejack. "What brings you on by?"

Rainbow then began to scratch the back of her head. "Well uh, I was just wondering, um, maybe you'd like to hang out later tonight? You know, uh, just hang out?"

"I'd like to Rainbow, but I'm a bit busy. It's Twilight's birthday tomorrow and I want enough time to prepare as possible."

"Oh right, Twilight's party. No, no, I totally understand, I'm going too. Besides, now that I think about it, it might be kind of awkward hangin' out with you while you two are dating."

"What do you mean?"

"Uh, nothing." Rainbow started to sweat. "I'm glad you two are marefriends. Really."

Applejack blinked. "Rainbow, is there somethin' you want to tell me?"

Rainbow darted her eyes. "Well...uh...I mean...never mind, it's nothing. I'll, uh, I'll see you at Twilight's party tomorrow. Have a good one, AJ." She then took off into the air without another word.

Applejack only shrugged and closed the door to return to her own matters.

As Rainbow flew off, she sighed and muttered to herself. "Why does Twilight get to be so lucky?"

...

"WHOO! Get down, party ponies!"

Pinkie Pie cranked up some dance music as more party guests arrived at the Ponyville library. They mingled around Twilight's home with punch, sweets and putting their weight on it to the music. Twilight stood by the front door greeting her friends from around town as they wished her happy birthday and gave her presents.

"Hi Fluttershy, good to see you." She smiled as her guests walked in. "Rarity, glad you could make it." She then lit up at the next. "Princess Luna, you came!"

The esteemed princess of the moon herself greeted Twilight graciously. "Salutations, Twilight Sparkle. We bid good tidings on doth anniversary of thine birth." She then levitated something from behind her. "We apologize for not wrapping thine present."

Twilight took the heavy antique gift from midieval times. "Oh...another suit of armor. Uh, thank you, Princess...really appreciate it."

"It is our pleasure, Twilight Sparkle; have a happy birthday and many more." Luna then proceeded to greet the rest in her royal voice. "CITIZENS OF PONYVILLE, LET THE FUN COMMENCE!"

A bit of time passed as Twilight celebrated with her friends. But the only missing guest was cantering up to the library, carrying a large parcel on her back, in haste. Applejack raised her hoof to knock on the front door, but it immediately opened and she was pulled inside by a pink embrace.

"Applejack, you made it!" grinned Pinkie as she hugged her. "I knew you couldn't miss Twilight's party you silly filly."

"Uh, hi Pinkie." Applejack gasped for breath after escaping the squeezing clutch. "I'm not too late, am I?"

"Nope, you're just on time! Twilight's just about to open her presents."

"Oh good!" Applejack wiped her forehead as she trotted over to meet her marefriend.

Twilight was sitting on a couch surrounded by the others who waited for her to reveal their gifts for her. She unwrapped one of them. "Ooh, a cashmere sweater and a sahpire necklace? Thanks, Fluttershy and Rarity, they're wonderful."

Rarity looked quizzically at Fluttershy. "Cashmere? Fluttershy, I thought we agreed on a thirty bit limit."

"Oops, I'm sorry." Fluttershy replied bashfully.

Then, Twilight smiled as she saw her marefriend and got up to hug her. "AJ! I almost thought you weren't going to make it."

"Sorry I'm late, Twi," said Applejack. "It took me all night to put your present together."

"Put together?" Twilight looked at the gift wrapped box on Applejack's back with intrigue. "Do you mind if I open yours next?"

"Shoot, I've been dyin' to see you open it." Applejack replied happily.

With that, Twilight levitated the long rectangular box which had some weight to it. Everypony watched as she slowly peeled off the wrapping in anticipation, then opened the box itself. The guests gave a fascinated 'ooh' as Twilight unvealed her gift with awe.

"Wow, a telescope!" she beamed.

"Yup, I figured how much you love stargazin'," said Applejack. "So, I dipped a little into the cider fund and got the best telescope I could find. What do ya think?"

Twilight stared at the high powered telescope on a tripod with amazement. "Applejack, I love it! Oh, you didn't have to go to all that trouble just for me."

"What are you kiddin'? Only the best on yer birthday."

Twilight set aside the telescope and wrapped her hooves tightly around her. "Thank you so much, Applejack." She said with a subtle kiss on the neck.

After all of the presents were opened, the party continued throughout the night. Pinkie cranked up the music, inviting more ponies to groove in what was once a quiet place for reading. Twilight and Applejack even shared a fast-paced dance, which seemed to have sparked some heat between them.

Another while passed and some of the ponies had already gone home as the night grew long. Applejack stood by the refreshment table, sampling some of the punch after a workout on the dance floor. Then, Twilight joined next to her nonchalantly.

"Um, Applejack," she spoke. "I meant to ask you something, but I wanted to wait until enough ponies left."

Applejack sensed a bit of nervousness from her partner. "Sure thing, Twi. What is it?"

Twilight rubbed her own shoulder. "Well, you see, I really appreciate the telescope and all. But to be honest, I was kind of hoping to get...something else from you...on my birthday."

"Well shoot, why didn't ya tell me? Is it a book or somethin'? Maybe clothes, or jewelry?"

"Uh, not exactly. In fact, it's not even a material present."

"...What're ya sayin'?"

Twilight grew more and more anxious. "AJ, I was wondering if, you know, after everypony is gone, we could stay here and...spend the night...having fun?"

"I don't..." Applejack then bulged her eyes. "You mean...filly foolin'?"

"Well, that's one way of putting it."

"I don't know, Twilight," said Applejack, suddenly beginning to blush. "That's a mighty big step, don't ya think?"

"I don't see why it would be." Twilight explained. "I mean, every good couple has to consummate their relationship sooner or later, right? It's just a way to spice things up."

"Look, Twi, I'm not too sure what 'consummate' means, but I just don't feel comfortable goin' through with...makin' love."

"What do you mean? You don't...you don't find me attractive?"

"No, no, of course I do. It's just that- I mean - I-" stammered Applejack trying to find the right words. "I don't know, it's just weird!"

"Applejack, you're the one who wanted us to be together like this." Twilight debated. "How can you say you're in love with me if you won't agree to, you know, mess around in bed?"

The very image of her word's brought pleasure to Applejack's imagination. But she chose instead to repress her libido. "Ugh! I'm sorry, Twilight. There's a lot of things I'm willin' to do for ya, but I'm just not ready for...that."

"Please, AJ," begged Twilight. "I know you want this just as much as I do. Please stay the night?"

Applejack sulked. "I can't take anymore of this. I think I'll just go back home. Hava a happy birthday, Twilight." She turned to leave, hoping to Celestia that nopony heard the argument.

As she watched her marefriend exit the library, Twilight slumped in a corner chair, fighting back tears. She felt a great deal of regret for asking Applejack her birthday wish, as she waited for her guests to just leave. After a few minutes, she heard a friendly male voice speak to her.

"Are you alright?"

Twilight looked up and wiped her tear soaked face. "Oh, hi Big Mac, I'm fine."

The red draftpony looked at her curiously. "Why don't ya come with me fer a while?" he smiled. You look like ya need to chat."

Suddenly, she realized that was exactly what she needed, as she smiled back slightly at Big Macintosh. "Yeah, sure. Thanks."

Meanwhile, outside the library, Applejack walked off in a huff trying to forget the tension created between her and Twilight. But as she strode off into the night, she heard cantering coming toward her and looked back. Coming out of the library was Rainbow Dash catching up to her.

"Hey Applejack, are you okay? Why are you leaving?" she asked.

Applejack considered explaining the argument, but the very thought just made her more uncomfortable. "Uh, yeah I'm fine. I'm just, uh, not really in the mood for a party I guess."

"Well, uh, if you don't want to stay at the party, do you maybe want to, I don't know, hang out for a bit?" Rainbow scuffed the ground.

Quizzically, Applejack wondered about the pegasus's offer. But she knew she needed something to take her mind off her tension with Twilight and shrugged. "Sure, Rainbow, sounds good."

Before long, Applejack found herself sitting on a park bench next to Rainbow; both with an ice cream cone in hoof. She listened to her daredevil friend ramble on about flying, but couldn't keep from feeling down inside.

"So then Rarity said that I couldn't make a cloud into the shape of DNA." Rainbow spoke proudly. "But I sure showed her in no more than fifteen seconds flat."

Applejack simply stared at the ground with her ice cream dripping. "Uh huh, that's great."

Rainbow finally acknowledged her dumpiness. "Are you sure you're alright, AJ? You haven't even touched your ice cream."

Applejack sighed. "To be honest, Rainbow, things aren't goin' to swell with Twilight."

A sudden urge to smile came to Rainbow. "Is that so?"

"Yeah. This is a might hard to tell ya but, just now durin' the party, Twilight said she wanted me to start," she gulped. "Makin' love with her."

Then, Rainbow's expression changed at the thought of her two friends in that kind of situation. "...Dang. I didn't think you'd get to that point already."

"Well, apparently not. I told her I wasn't comfortable goin' through with it and I just up and left. Twilight probably hates me right now."

Rainbow paused to think about her pal's dilemma, instead of trying anymore to get her affection. "Applejack, didn't you say you were the one who told Twilight you love her first?"

"Uh, yeah. Why do ya ask?"

"Well, how exactly did she take it?"

"She...she didn't want to be with me. At least not until I saved her life."

"And how do you think Twilight feels now?"

Applejack looked up in realization. "Probably the same as I did."

After finishing her cone, Rainbow put a hoof on the farmer's shoulder. "Look, AJ, I'm gonna be honest. I really am jealous of Twilight. Before this whole relationship thing, I kind of hoped that someday, you and I would, I don't know, be together."

"Rainbow, are ya sayin' you had a crush on me?" asked Applejack, almost smiling.

"Well, when you put it that way, it sounds kind of corny. But yeah, I guess so. And seeing you and Twilight being marefriends somehow made me more...attracted to you. I guess that's why I've been acting weird."

"Shoot, I'm sorry, Rainbow. I never knew."

"You know what? It doesn't matter." Rainbow smiled. "I shouldn't keep trying to drag you away from Twilight. She's pretty lucky to have you, and I think she deserves to have you by her side."

"So, ya think I should do it?"

"Well, if you ask me, it's up to you. Is it for yourself, or for her?"

Applejack stared in space as she considered her words. After another minute, she smiled back at Rainbow and gave her a friendly kiss on the cheek, making her blush. "Thanks a bunch, Dash. I think I know."

...

Elsewhere, Twilight sat on the swinging bench on the front porch of the Apple family farmhouse. Next to her was Big Macintosh who was admiring her beauty under the starlight. As they swung on the front porch, Twilight spoke to him.

"By the way, thanks for coming to my party, Big Mac. It was a pretty big turnout."

"T'weren't nothin'." Big Macintosh replied. "Did ya like the cook book I gave ya?"

"Oh yeah, that was really nice. But to be honest, I don't really cook much."

"Oh, heh heh, sorry 'bout that. I wasn't too sure what to get ya."

"It's okay, I just like it for the sake of books." She then looked down and sighed as a quiet pause settled in.

Big Mac gave her a compassionate nudge. "Somethin' on yer mind?"

"Oh yeah, uh, everything's fine." Twilight lied. "It is my birthday after all."

"You know, it seemed like Applejack stormed off in a bit of a huff. Is everythin' alright between you two?"

"Well, no...and yes...but not exactly."

"Well which is it?"

At last, Twilight gave a long sigh, knowing she could no longer keep up the charade. "Big Mac, I was waiting for her to tell you this but, Applejack and I are...marefriends."

A look of shock came over him. Big Mac was taken aback, but somehow, not by too much. "Yer pullin' mah leg."

"It's true." Twilight replied. "It was just a few months ago. Applejack told me that she had been in love with me, but I walked off because I was unwilling to accept it. But then, as I was walking home, I was attacked by the Diamond Dogs and was eventually dropped into the river. Applejack managed to take down the dogs and save me from drowning. And ever since, I've been grateful enough to want to be with her forever."

"It all makes sense." Big Mac spoke partially to himself. "That's why she's been so inf- infa-"

"Infatuated?"

"Yeah, that with you. But why was she so angry tonight?"

Twilight braced herself for the hard part. "Well, during the party, I asked Applejack to...well...take me to bed."

Big Mac only stared back in confusion. Then, his eyes widened with realization. "You mean..."

"Yeah...I mean. But she said she didn't feel comfortable doing it and just left. Now I think I really made her resent me."

"This is a lot to take in." Big Mac shook his head.

"Oh Big Mac, I'm so sorry you had to hear this from me. I know you've been attracted to me too, and I just feel awful about keeping you out of the dark. Now I bet you hate me just as much as your sister does." Twilight hung her head again.

"Are you kiddin'?" smiled Big Mac. "I'm right glad you and AJ are together."

"You are?"

"Shoot, I've never seen mah sister this happy. If you can make her happy, then I have no reason to take from her."

"Well, I didn't exactly make her happy a few hours ago."

"Twilight, do ya love her?"

"Of course I love her; and I want her so badly. I know she's still a bit timid, but I'm just so ready to take our relationship higher. Every night, I've been dreaming about her taking me and pleasuring me in every way possible and-" She stopped when she noticed an uneasy wince on Big Mac's face, from the imagined scenario of his own sister. "Oh, sorry."

"Never mind." He said shaking it off. "I know what yer sayin'. I love her too; but as family. I've known Applejack all my life and I know how she ticks. She can be a might stubborn sometimes, but I know when she might be hurtin'. After all, how did ya feel when she first told you she loved you?"

Twilight looked up in realization. "Probably the same as she does."

"I know mah sister, Twilight. She doesn't like questions out of the blue. But I bet if ya give her enough time, she'll do anythin' for ya."

"Give her time?" pondered Twilight. "You're right, Big Mac, that's exactly what I should do. I guess all we really need is some patience."

"Eeyup."

They sat in silence for a bit longer, before Twilight got up and spoke again. "Well, I guess I better head home. Everypony's probably gone home by now. Thanks for the help, Big Macintosh." She said, giving him a warm hug. "You're such a sweet stallion."

The farmer blushed. "T'weren't nothin, Twilight. And happy birthday."

...

By midnight, Twilight had already returned to her empty home, not even bothering to clean up the mess from the party. She curled up in her bed to get as much sleep as she could, hoping that the stress of the night would be gone by morning. Normally she would have picked up on a good novel, but there was just too much weight in her eyes. As she lay in her bed in that still night, her ear suddenly twitched to a sound from inside her room; it was the door slowly creaking open. Twilight opened her eyes and looked at the doorway to see a low light coming in. And standing there was a familiar shape.

"Applejack?" she asked, rubbing her eyes. "Is that you?"

Before answering, the slihouetted orange mare walked up to the bedside, until her smiling face was finally visible. Putting a gentle hoof on Twilight's shoulder, Applejack whispered. "Still want yer birthday present?"

And just like that, all the sleepiness in Twilight's eyes left her, as she sat up. "Are you sure, Applejack? You really want to do it?"

"Anythin' fer you, sugarcube." Applejack then rubbed her cheek.

Twilight smiled excitedly. "Oh, AJ!"

Without hesitation, she lifted the covers and Applejack tossed her hat to the side before climbing into bed with her. As the two lay on top of each other, they stared eye to eye preparing for a night neither of them would ever forget.

***

AUTHOR'S NOTE: Warning! The following scene contains mature sexual content that is not suitable for foals. If you do not wish to view it, feel free to skip ahead until you see the next author's note. THOU HATH BEEN WARNED!

***

Neither of them could get closer, as they held each other under the covers. Twilight lay on her back letting her partner relax on top of her and lock lips slowly. She moaned with pleasure as Applejack continued her passionate kiss, even giving the occasional swipe of the tongue.

Then, after a few more minutes, Applejack parted and moved the kissing eastward, leaving a trail along the purple cheek and neck. Twilight moaned again at the heat left upon her neck which then moved to the tight spot behind her ear. Applejack gave the sensitive ear a slight nibble, creating a pleased giggle from the unicorn.

At last, Applejack made it to the base of the horn where she began sliding her tongue around, switching directions. Ever carefully, the tongue made its way up the horn, spiraling around and keeping along the small grooves in the hard surface; Applejack enjoyed the texture.

Twilight became overwhelmed as her lover reached the tip of her horn, and her body began to writhe and heave in place; the magic within her horn started to swell. Applejack tasted the magic, making the horn as irresistable as hard candy. The more she licked, the less Twilight was able to control the aura and her wriggling body. And as Applejack enjoyed the sweet tasting horn more and more, she clutched Twilight's head close, pressing her face into her warm orange chest.

After a few more moments of savoring the sweet candy, Applejack stopped and stared into her marefriend's eyes.

"Oh my gosh," she said bewtween breaths. "Twilight, you were right. I want you so badly!"

"I love you so much, AJ." Twilight panted before wrapping her hooves around her and stealing a quick kiss. "I'm so hot right now."

Applejack grinned. "I think I know just what to do."

With that, Applejack began another trail of kisses starting from the steaming unicorn's lips. She made her way down her right cheek and side of the neck, then took a slight detour along the shoulder, all the while giving the occasional love bite. After the shoulder, Applejack continued down toward the chest where she paused again. She then nuzzled against Twilight's soft breast and rested her ear to listen to the rapidly pounding heart on top of two steadily heaving lungs. Twilight stroked her partner's blonde mane, as she paused at the chest, and gave another tender smooch on the forehead.

After nestling on the warm breast, Applejack then moved down the rest of the torso, not so much kissing, but merely rubbing her cheek against the soft lavender fur. Finally, she reached below the belt. Applejack gently held down Twilight's rear legs and pressed her muzzle tightly between her partner's loins.

Twilight grasped the sides of her matress with both hooves and lifed her head, preparing for the next part of her birthday wish. Her head quickly fell back on her pillow, as Applejack barely touched the all important crevasse with her lips; she even let out a desperate moan while her beath and heartrate quickened.

Applejack resumed kissing the lower lips, feeling an increasing amount of heat blasting her face. Then, sensing that Twilight was close to peaking, she started work with her tongue, sliding it ever so slowly up and down. Twilight gasped and let out cries of pleasure as she felt the wet tongue make contact with her sensitive area.

"Applejack!" she let out as the surge of pleasure rushed up her entire body.

At last, the surge of pleasure faded as Twilight finally achieved orgasm. She lay there deflated as sweat dripped down different parts of her body. Applejack climbed back up and once again rested her head on her heaving chest to hear more of the pumping organs. After letting her breath slow down, Twilight cradled her head giving an appreciative stroke of her mane.

"Wow," she whispered. "You really do know how to please a mare."

Applejack rested her chin to look up. "I guess it takes one to pleasure one."

Then, a sly smile stretched across Twilight's face. "Now, it's my turn."

The earth pony knew exactly what she was talking about. With an excited smile, Applejack sat up and turned around, facing the bottom end of the bed. Twilight finally got up off her back and slid over to embrace her lover's back as she lay at the end of the bed waiting.

Remembering back to her recent fantasies, she began work on the back of the neck; Applejack lifted her ponytail to let her enter. Twilight mimicked her partner by leaving multiple kisses on her orange nape. Knowing that Applejack had a tougher build, she pressed her face harder with each peck. Applejack let out a long hushed moan as Twilight descended down her back, taking time to find the best points of pleasure for maximum effect. After a while, she finally reached the banded blonde tail, which twitched as Twilight's lips hit just above the coccyx. The beautiful hay-like tail even brushed her face sending a tingle of pleasure.

Then, Twilight braced herself for the best part. Slowly, she lowered her head and found the hidden space under the orange rump. She carefully squeezed her muzzled in the space between the back of the thighs, and Applejack raised her behind and widened her legs, to answer her partner's request to come inside.

"Now just what are you doin' back there?" asked Applejack knowingly.

"You'll see." Twilight replied.

At long last, Twilight moved her head forward and her magic coated horn slid along the underside. Applejack gave a surprised 'oh' in response; the contact caused several itches to ignite throughout her body, which she dared not scratch and simply let the rush take its course.

Twilight gave a few more careful strokes with the tip of her horn, like a delicately maneuvered pen, and increased the tingling in both their bodies. Then, she made the final thrust and inserted her tip into her partner's entrance. Applejack gasped and let out a loud utterance that pleaded for more. Twilight responded by rubbing her horn along the sweet hidden flesh, creating clockwise and counter-clockwise circles. Uncontrolably, Applejack heaveed her body as she felt the hard grooved surface breaching her. A mist of heat and sweat surrounded Twilight's head as she continued adjusting her horn; she was loving every second of it as her partner squirmed in her state of euphoria.

"Twilight!"

With one last cry, Applejack finally surrendered and dropped to her front, letting the numbing orgasm of her own wash over her insides. As she lay there with head hanging over the edge of the bed, Twilight slid up and rested her head over her lover's back. She wrapped her hooves around Applejack's torso and nuzzled her nape as she spoke hushed.

"Thank you so much." She whispered. "You are the sweetest pony ever."

Applejack turned her head to rub noses with her. "I love ya, Twilight. I said first, and I'll say it again. I love ya with all my beatin' heart."

And with that, the two mares lay on top of each other as they drifted off to sleep. That night, and many more after, they would both dream the sweetest dreams about their first night of sweet passionate sex.

***

AUTHOR'S NOTE: Okay, it is safe for your virgin eyes. Now continue reading!

***

Rainbow Dash and Big Macintosh stood outside the Ponyville library staring at the one lit window upstairs. They both gave a deflated sigh as Rainbow spoke.

"Well, I bet they're having the time of their lives in there." She said.

"Eeyup."

"Oh well, I guess we can't win 'em all."

"Nope."

As silence settled in, the two looked at each other curiously. Then, they both gave an inviting smile.

"Ya wanna go out sometime?" asked Big Mac.

Rainbow replied happily. "Eeyup."

Wrapped Around Your Hoof

Chapter 6: Wrapped Around Your Hoof

Some time had passed since the incident with Granny Smith. Although family tensions were high, Applejack's love for Twilight was still going strong as ever. Aside from living at the library, she also took comfort in chatting with Rarity over tea. It was something she would never see herself doing; but a little relaxation was exactly what Applejack needed, since there was still one thing nagging at her mind.

As she sat in the boutique lounge, she thought it was as good a time as ever to break the news.

"Applejack, darling," cooed Rarity. "It must have been just dreadful to be kicked from your own home like that."

"Yeah, it was pretty hairy." Applejack replied quietly.

"But it was so sweet of Twilight to give you her home. She's such a caring companion."

"She really is."

Rarity started to notice her friend's fatigue. "Are you alright, Applejack? You've hardly said a word since you got here."

After pausing for a moment, Applejack finally sighed. "Rarity, I've been thinkin' for the past few days. And I think it's time."

"For what, dear?"

She grew more confident as she answered. "I've thought about it long and hard, and now I'm finally ready to take a shot."

"What ever are you talking about?" Rarity grew impatient.

"I'm not holdin' back any longer. I'm comin' clean; cleaner than I ever came before! I'm-"

"Applejack!" interrupted Rarity as she shook her friend by the shoulders. "What...is...it?!"

"Rarity," smiled Applejack. "I'm gonna propose to Twilight."

For the next several seconds, Rarity only stared at her blankly. Applejack even waved a hoof in front of her face but without snapping her out of it. After a few more moments of silence, the dressmaker finally responded.

"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"

Applejack did not have time to cover her ears before Rarity grabbed her in a vise-like hug.

"Oh Applejack, I can't believe it!" she shrieked. "This is even better news than when I found out you two were dating! I am so so SO happy for you!!!"

She continued to squeeze the life out of Applejack, thrashing her from side to side in her chummy embrace. The farm pony could not even utter a single sound as she was suffocated.

"Ooh, I can just see it now!" continued Rarity. "Flowers around a big beautiful alter! Neat little crystal cider glasses! Octavia playing the wedding march! OH! And you absolutely must let me design the dresses! I just can't wait for you and Twilight; I have to go tell her right now!"

"Wait, what?!"

Like a puppy after a ball, Rarity immediately bolted out the front door. But before she could get any further, Applejack grabbed her curled tail in her teeth, bringing her to the ground.

"Have you lost yer mind, woman?" she glared. "Ya can't just go off and tell Twi that I'm about to ask her hoof in marriage!"

Rarity stood back up and fixed her mane as she realized her blunder. "Oh of course, you're right, AJ. What was I thinking? How foolish of me. It's just that I'm so excited for you both. Twilight is going to be absolutely overjoyed!"

"Well, that's what I'm hopin'. But there's just one thing I need if I'm gonna propose to her."

"I know exactly what you mean, my dear. You need the perfect ring to do it with. Come, I know just the place."

Before long, Rarity led her friend to the finest jewelry store in Ponyville: Jim's Gems. WIth their saddlebags, they entered the humble shop and immediately gazed around at the vast collection of beautiful sparkling gems fitted on rings, necklaces, and the like; the window featured a sign that read 'Not Allowed On Premises' and a picture of Spike. A look of admiration came over Rarity's face as she examined the precious jewels.

"Ah, sweet sweet luster." She beamed. "Quite impresive, don't you think, Applejack?"

"If ya say so." Applejack simply skimmed over the little rocks, not knowing what the unicorn saw in them.

As they entered, Jim himself addressed the mares. "How can I help you ladies?" the dapper jeweler greeted from behind a counter.

"Ah yes, good sir," said Rarity. "My friend here is looking for the perfect engagement ring for a special somepony."

Applejack only smiled awkwardly at the clerk.

"Oh I see," he replied kindly. "I have just the thing for mare couples. Why don't you browse through our latest collection of diamond rings over there?"

"Uh, thanks a bunch." Applejack said and wandered over to the case of silver banded rings displayed inside. At first, they all looked like the same pea sized rock embedded in a shiny little band; but then, her eyes caught the real prize. She gawked at the biggest roundest cut diamond in the display, fitted in heart shaped silver coils. Applejack was compelled by the large gem and spoke to the Jim.

"How much for this one?" she asked.

"Oh that one?" he looked over. "It's the most expensive in the collection; 2,500 bits."

"What?! To heck with that!" Applejack scoffed and kept looking. She then pointed to one of the same looking rings. "How about that one?"

"That's 1,800." Jim answered.

"Ya gotta be kiddin' me."

For the next few mintues, Applejack searched throughout the store over engagement rings of all different rocks, cuts, and metals. But looks were deceiving to her, and Jim was growing impatient.

"What about this one?"

"1,650 bits."

"That one?"

"1,400 bits."

"How 'bout this one?"

"1,050 bits."

"Um, uh, this one?"

"That's 200."

"Well I guess that's-"

"Plus a shipping fee."

"Tarnation!" she stomped her hoof and approached the counter at last. "Don't ya have anything for a, um, fixed budget?"

"Sorry, ma'am," the jeweler replied flatly. "Diamonds aren't cheap, especially not engagement rings. I'm not like one of those con artists outside selling flimsy knockoffs at a dime a dozen."

Applejack turned around and peered out the front window to see a shady looking stallion with a stand filled with diamond rings. They didn't seem any different than the ones she browsed through, which was all the assurance she needed.

"Thanks for the tip." She smirked and trotted off out the door.

"Hey!" griped Jim.

Outside, Applejack walked up to the street vendor and surveyed the rings which had little variety. She looked at the seller.

"How much is yer biggest one?" she asked.

"Fifty bits, lady." The stranger rasped.

"That's good enough for me!" Applejack happily reached for her saddlebag.

But before she could make another move, she was grabbed aside by an appalled Rarity. "Applejack!" she scoffed. "Buying an engagement ring from a common street vendor? For shame!"

"Well what do you expect me to do, Rarity?" retorted Applejack. "There's no way I can't afford any of those diamonds in there."

"But isn't Twilight's love worth every penny?"

Applejack paused and considered her words. She sighed with disgust at herself. "I guess that's true."

"Trust me, AJ, if there's one thing I know, it's diamonds; they're a unicorn's best friend. And I guarantee that if you get her the perfect one, she'll be the happiest unicorn in Equestria."

"You make a fine point, Rarity." Applejack replied. "If I wanna afford the perfect ring for Twi, I'm gonna have to work harder than ever for it." She then smiled with epiphany. "And I know just how I'll do it. I'm gonna sell my family's apple pies like hotcakes!" she said triumphantly.

"Uh, not to open old wounds, dear," said Rarity quizzically. "But how do you plan to sell apple pies when you're banned from your family's farm?"

"Oh I have my sources." Applejack smiled cockliy.

Then, the two friends looked to see a young filly trotting over. It was Sweetie Belle, with her mane mussed up by cat scratches. "Rarity, will you please come home?" she demanded her big sister. "Opal won't sit still for her hourly brushing."

"Hey Sweetie Belle," said Applejack. "Can ya do me a favor?"

"Sure thing, Applejack." Sweetie Belle smiled eagerly.

"Can ya give a message to Apple Bloom? Tell her and Big Macintosh to..."

...

Later that night, Applejack spent some quality time at her new home with her special somepony. She and Twilight snuggled together in their bed before some light reading and then sleep. They busied themselves with exchanging kisses and nuzzling before Applejack began to feel some nervousness in her lover.

"Somethin' wrong, sugarcube?" she asked. "Ya feel mighty tense."

"Oh, uh, it's nothing really." Twilight mumbled and continued to kiss her neck.

But Applejack could still tell she was troubled. "C'mon, Twi, what's gettin' ya down?"

Twilight finally sighed and explained. "Well, to be honest, the past few days have been a bit trying. The library has been getting a bit old in years, being it a tree after all, and I've been having trouble paying for maintenance. So I had to sell some of the books around here just to keep the place standing. It's really hard to see my books go."

"Why didn't ya tell me earlier?"

"I didn't want to let you down, AJ. I don't want you to live in a place I can't even afford to maintain. I'm sure it'll be fine."

Applejack saw the uneasiness in her marefriend's eyes. She knew then that she had to raise her spirits somehow, and the biggest shiniest diamond ring would do just the trick. She lifted Twilight's chin and looked into her purple eyes.

"Don't worry, darlin'," she smiled. "I know you'll make it. You are the brains, after all."

"You know just what to say, Applejack." Twilight smiled back and kissed her lips deeply. "Will you be home for breakfast tomorrow, babe?"

"Actually, I gotta leave early. I've got some work to do."

...

The next morning, Applejack found herself in the Ponyville marketplace. With some help from her little sister, she had successfully rebuilt the merchant stand where she would sell her family's crop pound by pound. After completing the stand, she hugged Apple Bloom.

"It's good to see ya again, big sis." The filly said joyfully.

"You too, Apple Bloom." Applejack replied. "How's Granny Smith?"

"She's still a bit steamed. But I'm sure she'll come around soon."

"Well as long as you're still with me, little sis."

Applejack then looked down at Wynona, who scampered up to her master with affection. "Woof! Woof!"

"Aw hey, Wynona," she petted the collie. "Did ya miss me, girl?"

Then, the two sisters spotted their big brother who wheeled a cart overstuffed with steaming apple pies. Applejack trotted over to hug him as well.

"Thanks so much for helpin' big bro." She said. "I can't believe you two managed to bake all these pies without Granny Smith suspectin' a thing."

"It's the least I could do for gettin' ya in trouble." Big Macintosh smiled back. "I really missed ya, AJ."

But then, she noticed the strange marking on his red shoulder. "Uh, Big Mac, is that a tattoo?"

Big Mac blushed and snapped his eyes at the heart shaped tattoo on his shoulder, which read 'BM + RD'. He turned away to hide the message. "Uh...no."

She stared at him for a moment then shrugged off her suspicion. "Well anyway, with our famous pies, we're bound to raise enough dough for Twilight's engagement ring."

"Um, Applejack," the youngest sibling queried. "Not to be a downer but don't ya think this is kind of, um, excessive just for a ring?"

"Trust me, li'l sis," said Applejack proudly. "When yer in love, you'll understand how much it means to ya."

"Ya mean I'm gonna marry another mare too?" Apple Bloom looked perplexed.

"Eh, no, I mean, uh, never mind." Applejack then walked up behind the stand and announced to the shoppers. "Alright, Ponyville, the Apple family pie stand is back in business; and we're open all day!"

"Not if we have anything to say about it! Right, Flim?"

"You said it, Flam!"

Applejack stared blankly. "You are freaking kidding me."

Strolling up the street came the Apple family's old one-time rivals: the obnoxious Flim Flam brothers. The eccentric unicorn twins approached the family's stand with cocky smiles.

"Sorry, sweetheart," said Flim. "But my brother and I have already reserved this space to sell our own fine goods."

"You two are back again?!" glared Applejack. "I thought we put you in yer place with our family's apple cider."

"It was a fair contest," replied Flam. "But now we're back in the apple business. We tried building a flying machine over in Baltimare, and let's just say it didn't go so well. It took me three weeks to regrow this mustache."

"So we needed to find better work and now we're back in the Ponyville scene." Flim added.

"Well ya can't sell yer crummy cider here." Apple Bloom protested. "We're tryin' to sell our pies and we don't want any of yer nonsence."

"Nnope." added Big Mac.

"Oh no, we're not here to sell cider." Flim scoffed. "You see, we also have been making apple pies of our own. And I'm afraid your cute little stand won't be able to catch up with our revenue."

"Really, yer gonna sell pies?" snapped Applejack skeptically. "And just what makes ya think you'll sell more than us?"

"With our latest invention." Flam stepped aside to reveal a tarped wagon he had been pulling. He removed the tarp unvealing what looked like a giant industrial leaf blower. "I give you the Ultra Quicker Pie Cooker 8000!"

Apple Bloom looked at the strange machine curiously. "How does it work?"

"Why we'll tell you! Ready, Flam?"

"Ready, Flim!" answered Flam who then blew through a tuning harmonica. Then the brothers broke out in song.

"Well you see it's no lie, that when you make a pie, you gotta add a little-"

"Okay, okay, never mind!" interrupted Apple Bloom.

"Look, I don't care what kind of crazy contraption you two clowns have now." Applejack argued. "Yer not gonna sell pies on our turf!"

"Well that's too bad." Flam smirked. "'Cause we have a permit that let's us do so. Looks like you'll have to open up another day."

Applejack paused to think. There was no way she was going to let these two try to oust her again. Then, a thought occured to her. "What if we made this a little fun?" she spoke to the twins.

"We're listening." Flim raised an eyebrow.

"Let's have a competition. Whoever can sell the most pies by sunset can keep their spot in the marketplace."

"Applejack, what are ya doing?!" whispered Apple Bloom. "Have you gone completely insane?"

"I'm not givin' up this stand, Apple Bloom; especially not for Twilight." Applejack turned back to the cons. "So, do we have a deal?"

"Are you kidding?" snorted Flam. "We'll sell more pies than you could bake in a year. You're on!"

"Then may the best pies win." Applejack narrowed her eyes.

Then, Flim approached Big Mac and held out his hoof to shake while staring him down. "Just like old times, huh?"

The draft pony only grabbed the hoof and gave it an agonizing squeeze, sneering without a word. Flim retracted his hoof from the painful grip with a cringe.

And so the competition began. As more and more ponies gathered around, the humble family and the shifty entrepeneurs prepared for their marketing face-off. Apple Bloom stood in front of the intrigued crowd wearing a sign over her shoulders reading 'Apple Family Homemade Pies'.

"Come on down, everypony," she announced. "Come get ya a nice fresh baked apple pie from yer neighborhood family farm!"

One by one, the hungry ponies lined up for the family stand. Not surprisingly, Pinkie Pie stood at the front of the line, jumping in place.

"Ooh, I just love your pies, Applejack!" the pink mare beamed. "They're even better than Mr. and Mrs. Cake's. Uh, please don't tell them I said that!"

"Thanks for comin', Pinkie," said Applejack as she handed her a pie. "That'll be ten bits."

"Only ten?" Pinkie cocked her head.

"Yup, we're markin' down the price just for this occasion. Come again soon, Pinkie."

"Are you kidding?" smiled Pinkie. "I'm getting back in line!" she then sprang off.

But unbeknownst to the Apple family, the Flim Flam brothers were doing some advertising of their own. Flam stood in front of their peculiar contraption and faced his potential customers.

"Step right up, mares and gentlecolts!" he spoke in a showman's tone. "Come witness this marvel of machinery produce apple pies faster than any one pony!"

Then, with a nod from his brother, Flim took a industrial hose which was attached to the machine. He flipped a switch on the end of the hose and began walking around the market by a row of farmers' baskets. Using the hose, Flim sucked up carious products including flour, sugar, cinnamon, nuts, and of course apples. As the ingredients were abrubtly vacuumed into the machine, Flam then switched several levers on the Ultra Quicker Pie Cooker. Immediately, the U.Q.P.C. began to hum loudly and make clunking and clanging noises from inside. After a minute of mecahnical tinkering, a green light blinked on above a moving conveyer belt and sure enough, a line of steaming pies quickly rolled out. The crowd of ponies stared amazed at the tantalizing tarts.

"That's right, folks," announced Flim. "That's ten hot and ready pies in just half a minute. And just to prove that they're just as good as any other, we're marking them down to five bits each!"

"Wow, that's a lot of pie!" grinned Pinkie. "I'll take twenty!"

"Pinkie!" glared Applejack.

"Oh sorry, AJ, I just really love pie!"

And just like that, the dazzled crowd flocked to the brothers with hooffuls of cash. Applejack looked from afar as half of her clientele migrated over to her rivals.

"This means war!"

As the day wore on, so did the pie battle. On one hoof, ponies prefered the authentic homemade honesty of Applejack's pies. But on the other, Flim and Flam were selling them at a much faster rate and at a lower price. It was tug-of-war between both sellers, and the pies were flying off the shelves. An endless stock of them continued to roll out of the Ultra Quicker Pie Cooker. However, Big Mac hurried to meet demand as he balanced a bunch at a time on his back, hooves and nose. Apple Bloom tried to help keep the customers interested with various advertising antics, including juggling apples and spinning pie tins on sticks. But the line for the family stand eventually grew to what seemed like a mile long. As the afternoon waned, the ponies began to file over to the chugging machine offering them pies by the tenfold. Applejack frowned as she gazed at the setting sun.

"This ain't good, guys," she said to her siblings. "Those Flim Flam brothers are stealin' all our customers and it's almost sundown. And worst of all, I don't have nearly enough for Twilight's ring." She looked in the cash box dissapointedly.

"Don't give up now, AJ," said Apple Bloom. "We'll make enough somehow. Right, Big Mac?"

Unfortunately, Big Macintosh had already stumbled and landed on his front, spilling pies all over him; it was not looking good for them. With just a few minutes of sunlight remaining, Applejack started to loose hope. Almost all of the ponies in the marketplace had herded over to the brothers' machine and her income of money had slowed dramatically. She watched longingly as darkness neared.

"No, no, no!"

Alas, Celestia's sun dissapeared behind the horizon; time was up.

"That's all for today, Ponyville," announced Flam. "Thank you all for your patronage!"

Applejack dropped her head on the table of her stand as her brother and sister walked over to comfort her. But then, the cocky twins came over after closing up their contraption.

"Sorry, doll face," said Flim. "You made it a good race, but it's all about the consumer. Maybe you'll have better luck in another town."

"Look, I get it, you guys won," trembled Applejack. "You proved to be the better salesmen. But you don't understand. I was just doin' this so I can afford an engagement ring for my marefriend. She's the best thing that ever happened to me. She took me into her home when I wasn't wanted in mine. And all I wanted was show my love for her in return, and I would do anything, even somethin' like this, just to prove it. But now I can't even afford a stupid ring." She wiped away a single tear. "I guess marriage will just have to wait. But please, I beg you, don't let this affect my family. Please, at least let the stand stay."

"No can do, kid," replied Flim soberly. "You got heart, I'll give you that, but a deal's a deal and we're here to stay. Right, Flam?...Flam?...Are you crying?!"

Flam's tried to hold back tears after hearing Applejack's plea. But he couldn't hold back any longer and burst out sobbing. "That's the most beautiful thing I ever heard!" He then touched her shoulder. "Sweetheart, your story has touched me deep. I once had a mare who I loved with all my heart, and I know just how you feel. Listen, I'm sorry about trying to run you out. So, I want you to take our whole profit from today."

"Flam, are you nuts?!" exclaimed Flim.

"You...you mean it?" Applejack looked up with hope.

"Absolutely," nodded Flam, giving her his brother's cash bag. "And for your family, we'll even let you keep your stand. I think the public will prefer quality over quantity."

"Bro, I really think you should reconsider this!" hissed Flim, ignored.

The three siblings looked inside the bag of bits with astonishment at how much the brothers had made.

"Golly, Applejack," said Apple Bloom. "There's more than enough in here. You could buy Twilight a hundred rings!"

"Thank you, ever so much." Applejack smiled at Flam. "I guess you boys ain't so cheap after all."

"Anything for a fellow entrepeneur." Flam smiled back and tipped his hat. He then walked off with his brother. "Come on, Flim, this town doesn't need us anymore."

"They never needed us in the first place, you idiot!" snarled Flim as they headed off with their Ultra Pie Whatever machine.

"So, what are ya going to do now, big sis?" asked Apple Bloom.

"Well, I suppose the jewelry store is still open." Applejack smiled then looked to her brother.

"Eeyup." Big Mac winked.

WIth newfound hope, Applejack took the cash bag and took off cantering into town before Jim's Gems could close for the night.

...

"Twilight, you home, sugarcube? I got a surprise for ya!"

Applejack called knowlingly before opening the door. But she was met no response as she stared into the darkened library. There was no light anywhere except for the lonely candle burning beside Twilight's couch. That's when Applejack heard the only sound. She heared what appeared to be quiet sobbing coming from the sofa and could just make out something moving. Applejack switched on a light and looked in heartbreak to see her marefriend weeping on the couch under a blanket. She walked over concerned.

"Twilight? What's wrong?" she asked.

The unicorn saw her enter and barely tried to compose herself. "Oh Applejack, I just got the worst news."

"What happened, darlin'?"

Twilight sobbed as she explained. "I just got a letter from the city. If I don't pay off the maintenance fees, the whole library will be shut down for good! And I still don't have enough! I'm so sorry, AJ; I tried but I couldn't even support our home." She dug her face in cushion and continued to cry.

At first, Applejack was struck by the troubling news. But then she quickly realized that she had already solved the dilema. "Twilight, you won't need to worry about a thing." She smiled. "I just made a killing off of sellin' my family's pies. Now we can pay off those darn taxes and then some!"

Miraculously, Twilight began to look up with hope. "Are you serious?"

"You bet. Don't you fret any longer, baby." Applejack touched her cheek. "We're gonna be just fine."

As she wiped the moisture from her eyes, Twilight rejoiced as she wrapped her hooves around her hardworking companion. "That was so sweet of you, Applejack. Thank you ever so much! Oh you did this just for me; I am such a pathetic marefriend."

"...How about a wife?"

"...What did you say?"

"Well, I had to spend some of that money on somethin' else too." Then, Applejack mustered every bit of strength in her will, and got down on one knee. She held out her front hooves holding open a small velvet box and proposed. "Twilight Sparkle, will you marry me?"

Twilight gawked at the ring in the box. It held a large diamond which had been cut in the shape of her twinkling star cutie mark, and was even tinted with pink and purple. The intricate sliver coils surrounding it resembled apples, and an inscription along the shimmering band read 'To the mare with all the brains, who stole my heart'. After staring for another moment, she finally uttered a stunned response.

"It's...beautiful! Are you sure about this?"

"I've never been more sure about anything in my life." Applejack smiled. "I love you with all my heart, Twilight. Please, be my wife."

She was finally won over. Immediately, all the sorrow was long gone and Twilight responded overjoyed. "YES! Yes! Yes! Oh, Applejack, yes! Of course I'll marry you!"

With that, Applejack placed the laborate ring around Twilight's horn and instantly, the jewel began to shine from the unicorn's magic. Twilight got off the couch to be swept up in her companion's hooves, spun around and held tight. The two locked lips for nearly a minute before she spoke again, while nuzzling Applejack's neck.

"I can't believe you went to all this trouble." She said happily.

"It was worth every penny." Applejack replied, knowing that Twilight's love was priceless.

"Hold me, AJ." Twilight whispered, this time crying tears of joy.

Here Come The Brides

Chapter 7: Here Come The Brides

"No, no, NO!" scorned Rarity. "Do you idiots know anything about wedding floral arrangements? The roses go in the back and the daisies are up front! Must I do everything myself?!"

Rarity had been spending the entire afternoon ordering ponies around, turning the largest balcony in Canterlot Castle into a wedding altar. The big day had come; the Apple/Sparkle wedding was set to go off without a hitch. As Rarity solded a wedding planner for setting the silverware in the wrong order, Twilight went over to calm her friend down.

"Rarity, don't you think you're being a little over dramatic about setting everything up?" the bride spoke.

"Oh come now, Twilight," replied Rarity. "I'm not going to have the wedding between two of my best friends go without every last detailed checked. Everything needs to be perfect for you and Applejack."

Twilight just rolled her eyes and smiled. "I'm flattered that you want it to be flawless, Rarity. But it is my wedding after all. It's already perfect."

"Oh dear, oh gosh, oh my goodness!"

"Fluttershy?" Twilight turned to the side to see her gentle friend staring at a mirror. "Are you alright?"

Fluttershy fussed with adjusting her green bride's maid dress and straightening her pink mane. "Oh, I hope I don't mess anything up. What if my dress gets a stain? What if I say the wrong thing?!"

Twilight walked over to her. "Don't worry, Fluttershy. I totally trust you as my maid of honor."

"Are you sure? Wouldn't you rather have Pinkie?"

The two then looked over at their hyper pink friend who was leering at the humungous cake being frosted by the chefs. Her tongue was hanging down with temptation. "Ooh, come on! Can't you frost any faster?!" she urged the caterers.

"I'm pretty sure." Twilight answered Fluttershy.

That's when one of the royal guard entered with an announcement. "The Princesses have arrived! Also, to the owner of a yellow carriage with a Vanhoover liscense plate, you're double parked."

As expected, the sun princess herself entered the makeshift wedding chapel in all her glory, with Luna and Cadence by her side. She greeted her faithful student with a warm grin.

"Princess Celestia, you're early." Twilight smiled.

"Well, of course." Celestia replied. "I wouldn't miss my star pupil's wedding for anything."

"Tis a tremendous occasion!" said Luna with her usual gusto. "The union between two of the Elements of Harmony is truly one to be celebrated."

"You better not embarrass me again like at my wedding, Auntie Luna." Cadence glowered.

"Hush, child," replied Luna. "We promise to contain ourselves this time. Besides, that usher was asking for it."

"Luna, please." Celestia rolled her eyes then turned back at her apprentice. "I'll be ready to lead the ceremony. You and Applejack will be so happy."

"I must say, Princess," said Twilight. "You seemed pretty calm about us being together."

"To be honest, I kind of saw it coming." She smirked. "It only makes sense that two of the Elements of Harmony could have that kind of affection for each other. And I can definitely see you two having many great years together."

Then, Cadence joined in to speak to the foal she once sat for. "You've certainly come a long way from asking to be pushed on the swing."

Twilight blushed. "So uh, any tips from a former bride?"

Cadence simply grabbed her in a gentle hug. "All you have to do is keep staring in his eyes the whole time."

"...You mean her eyes?"

That's when Cadence blushed as well. "Oh, right, heh heh, sorry." She then shared a laugh with her favorite filly.

A while later, after hearing more ranting from Rarity about the quality of the fruit crepes, Twilight found herself in her changing room. Her mother, Twilight Velvet, stood by her at the mirror helping with her dress.

"Hold still, dear," said Twilight Velvet. "I still have to get this last strap on."

"Mom, you know I'm not that comfortable with big dresses." The younger Twilight replied.

"I know, sweetie, but this is your big day. You should be proud; I know I am."

Twilight turned to hug her mother. "So am I."

"Um, Twilight?" came a male voice from outside. "Are you decent?"

"Yes, come on in, big bro."

Sure enough, Shining Armor entered flabergasted to see his own little sister in a wedding dress. "I can't believe it's actually happening, Twily." He smiled. "I'm so proud of you."

"Aw, you're not going to cry during the ceremony, are you?" joked Twilight.

"Come on, I'm your big strong brother. I can take a wedding."

"Knock knock!" called another male voice.

"Daddy, you made it!"

In came Twilight's father, Night Light, who gazed upon his daughter with more surprise. "Well, I thought I'd never see the day. Sorry I'm late, kiddo."

"It's alright, Daddy." Twilight hugged him. "I can't wait to walk down that aisle with you."

"I certainly never thought you'd be up there with one of your friends." Night Light shrugged happily. "But as long as I get to see both my kids getting married."

"Night Light, you're just making her more nervous." Twilight Velvet replied.

"Right, sorry," her husband chuckled. "I'll save the embarrassing for the reception." Twilight giggled at her father.

"So, where is the lucky mare?" asked Shining Armor. "I want to wish Applejack good luck."

"Shining Armor, you know we're not supposed to see each other yet." Twilight answered. "Although I hope she's not too nervous."

In a seperate changing room on the other side of the castle, Applejack made her own preparations for her big day. Over in the side, the Cutie Mark Crusaders were getting ready for their roles as flower girls.

"I'm telling you guys," said Scootaloo. "We're totally getting our flower cutie marks this way."

"Are we even still trying anymore?" replied Babs Seed.

As the crusaders conspired, Rarity was helping Applejack into her green gala dress. Meanwhile, Rainbow Dash was grumbling to herself.

"Come on, AJ," she whined. "Why does Big Mac get to be best man?"

"Uh, maybe 'cause he's my brother?" Applejack cocked an eyebrow.

"But what about all the times we had together?"

"Rainbow, please," scolded Rarity. "You get to be a groomspony at your best friends' wedding. The least you could do is show a little enthusiasm."

Rainbow sighed. "Yeah, sorry, Applejack. I guess I'm just being jealous again."

"It's alright, Rainb- OW! Tarnation, Rarity, do ya have to squeeze so tight?"

"Oh settle down," scoffed Rarity. "Do you know how many dresses I have to fit in to make them look good?"

"Did ya have to pick my gala dress? I've obviously gained a little weight since then."

"Nonsense, dear, you look marvelous! Just need one more quick tug."

"Yeeow!" Applejack stepped away from the constricting torture to inspect Rarity's handiwork. She hadn't worn the dress since the gala and yet it seemed just right for this occasion. "Uh, thanks, Rarity. But I think I'm gonna step outside for a bit to get my breath back."

As Applejack left the changing room, she stood outside in the hall and loosened the heavily tightened dress. That's when she heard a sweet elderly voice speak to her.

"Well, I'll be darned. Ya look amazin', sugarcube."

She looked up in shock to see Granny Smith staring at her with a smile. "Granny Smith?! What are you doin' here?"

"Are ya kiddin'? I'm not gonna miss my own granddaughter gettin' hitched."

Applejack wasn't smiling just yet. "Why did ya come, Granny?"

The old mare then changed her expression to one of guilt. "Applejack, I'm terribly sorry for what I said. It was wrong of me to disown ya just like that. I guess I'm just an old foal who can't keep up with the times."

"You mean it?" Applejack smiled.

Granny Smith laid a withered hoof on her granddaughter. "Darlin', if ya want to be with Twilight forever, and if ya truly love her, then I have no right to get in yer way. I mean every word."

At last, Applejack finally found forgiveness for her grandmother. She had felt as if there was something missing in this wedding, and this was exactly it. She matched Granny Smith's smile then reached around the elderly mare to hug her.

"Thank you so much, Granny Smith." She said. "I just needed to hear you say that. I love you."

"Sugarcube," replied Granny Smith with a wink. "Save it for the bride."

...

With a gentle stroke of her bow, Octavia began the wedding march with her string ensemble. Everypony on the balcony rose and turned to watch the moment they had been waiting for. Twilight entered the aisle adorned in her billowing white dress and holding the bouquet in a magic aura; Night Light of course was at her side taking her hoof. Applejack stood at the altar brimming with anticipation, Big Macintosh, Rainbow and Rarity. The love of her life couldn't have been walking any slower toward her with the same look of excitement in her eyes. Big Mac and Rainbow gave Applejack nudges of good luck, while Rarity and Fluttershy, as the maid of honor, struggled to keep back tears. Meanwhile, Pinkie Pie, who was next to Fluttershy, kept back the urge to jump for joy as well as cake.

Finally, the bride of the hour approached the altar and stood before her beloved. Applejack lifted the white veil to reveal the beautiful purple face beneath, with a dark mane laced with flowers. After the two stared in each other's eyes for a moment, Princess Celestia began the vows.

"Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to celebrate the union between these two ponies in holy matrimony. Will be ring bearer please present the rings?"

A brief silence followed as the audience looked around in confusion. That's when Rainbow finally urged the ring bearer.

"Spike!" she hissed.

"Oh right!" Spike approached the couple and handed them the pillow holding two rings. Twilight took the smaller one for her horn while Applejack took a larger one for her hoof.

With the rings presented, Celestia continued. "And now, the couple will exchange their vows. Twilight will go first."

"Wait, vows?" mumbled Applejack.

That's when Twilight began. "Applejack, when you first told me how much you loved me, I'll admit I was skeptical. But in fact, it took me until then for me to realize that I felt the same way about you. You were the first real friend when I moved to Ponyville and I was won over by your hospitality. You accepted me as one of your family and that is something I just can not beat. I love you deeply, Applejack, and I would gladly be a part of your family."

Applejack felt a knot tie in her chest.

"That was beautiful, Twilight." Celestia said. "And as for your vows, Applejack?"

"Right, uh, my vows." She bit her lip nervously. She had completely forgotten to write wedding vows. But there was no backing away now. Her love was waiting for her to speak and she that's just what she was going to do. Applejack was the Element of Honesty, and at that moment, she would be more honest than ever.

"Twilight, I don't know what it is about you that makes me so attracted to you. You're smart, kind, great with magic, and of course more beautiful than any other mare. I still can't place what it is about you that made me want you as a part of my family that day we met. But I know deep down, that I'll find out soon once we're together. Who knows? It could just be your magic. 'Cause you really put a spell on me."

Rainbow snickered at that last line. But it didn't matter how corny it may have been since Twilight's eyes began to water as she was overcome with affection.

"Very nice, Applejack." Celestia resumed. "Now, do you take Twilight to be your lawfully wedded wife?"

"I sure do!"

"And do you, Twilight Sparkle, take Applejack to be your...wife?"

"I do."

"Then by the power invested in me in the kingdom of Equestria, I now pronounce you...uh...special someponies. You may now kiss the bride!"

Shining Armor burst out in tears from the crowd as Twilight and Applejack locked lips with a roaring applause. Before running off down the aisle, Twilight tossed the bouquet in the air causing her friends to reach wildly for it. But it inevitably landed in Big Macintosh's mouth, who then gave Rainbow a knowing smile. Rainbow simply blushed and smiled back.

As the castle bells clanged loudly, the happy couple galloped outside toward their waiting carriage, with the crowd cheering behind them and throwing rice. Pinkie shouted amongst them.

"You two better hurry back to cut the cake!"

The newlyweds finally climbed in the carriage and rode off with cans rattling behind and a new life ahead of them. Twilight nuzzled her new spouse.

"I can't believe it! We finally did it!"

"That's right, darlin', it's just you and me!" grinned Applejack.

"So uh, what should we do now?"

Applejack gave her a suave look. "What do you think?"

The two then pulled the down the shades over the windows and began to kiss and snuggle tightly, christening a long and happy marriage.

The Newcomer

Chapter 8: The Newcomer

Twilight and Applejack stepped off the train at the Canterlot station brimming with anticipation. It had been a full year since their joyous wedding and they were still reminiscing about their lavish honeymoon in Las Pegasus. After firmly cementing their relationship for this long, it was time they made the one decision even bigger than marriage. They walked through town until they found the Canterlot orphanage.

"Oh Applejack I'm so exited!" said Twilight giddily. "I can't believe we're finally going to have a little foal of our own!"

"Well it had to happen at some point." Applejack smiled proudly.

"Gosh, do you think he'll like me? Or she will like me? I hope it's a filly. I could teach her to be a scholar. But what if she doesn't think I'm smart?! Then we'll get a colt! A nice handsome colt to play with! But what if he doesn't need me?! What if I won't be a good enough parent?!"

"Twilight, simmer down, girl." Applejack chuckled at her wife's neurotic fretting. "I'm sure you'll be a terrific parent. If Apple Bloom can stand- I mean like you, then I know any foal would."

"Right." Twilight sighed. "Sorry, AJ, you won't believe how nervous I can get."

"Oh trust me, I know."

The happy couple entered the orphanage with butterflies in their stomachs. It was a delight to see some of the forlorn foals meeting their new parents for the first time. Soon it would be Twilight and Applejack who would be welcoming a child with open hooves. They finally stopped outside the main hall where the orphans played and looked inside with adoration. There were a few dozen of the little ponies frolicking in play, with rambunctious colts chasing a ball around and darling little fillies creating a world with dolls and stuffed animals. Twilight leaned on Applejack lovingly as she watched the young ones.

"Aw look at them, Applejack!" she cooed. "I wish I could just take them all."

"Let's not get carried away now, Twi. You go ahead and look around while I talk with whoever's in charge." Applejack parted with her and found one of the motherly nuns who ran the orphanage who was standing nearby. "Excuse me, ma'am, my partner n' I want to find a foal to adopt."

"Oh terrific!" The nun spoke gingerly. "It's always a pleasure to know that these children will go to a loving home and family. I'll be happy to help you."

"That's great! We're not too picky, you see, we only just recently married."

"Of course, my child. Now, may I speak with the stallion of the house?"

"Stallion? Oh! No no no, you see, I don't have a husband."

"...Pardon me?"

"Actually, my partner is right over there." Applejack then pointed over in the main hall where Twilight was showing off a spell to the orphans who watched in amazement.

But when the nun made the connection, she became shocked and a little bit appalled. "You are...married to another mare?"

"Yup! She's the love o' my life!" replied Applejack proudly.

The nun paused to consider the situation then looked at Applejack sternly. "I'm sorry, but we can not have a child adopt your kind as parents."

Applejack gawked. "What are ya talkin' about?! Why the heck not?!"

"We do not believe you will make suitable parents. Without a father figure, a child would not be brought up properly."

"Hey listen here, sister," growled Applejack. "I'm ten times the father figure any stallion could be! And besides, just look at my beautiful wife; she's already puttin' smiles on those kids' faces. She's been talkin' about kids nonstop for months! Are you gonna deny her and those kids that kind o' happiness?"

"I'm sorry, my child." The stubborn nun replied. "But our rules are quite strict. I think you are just not fit to raise a foal."

"I'll show you, Celestia darn it!"

"Watch your tongue, young lady, that's heresy!" The nun scolded. "I will have to ask you to leave now."

"Fine!" Applejack stormed off grumbling to herself. "Dumb old bitty." She then looked again into the play area where the children applauded Twilight's magical demonstrations. It pained Applejack to know that she would have to disappoint her beloved.

It became a dower train ride back to Ponyville as Twilight pondered on Applejack's words.

"I just don't get it." She sighed. "I guess some just won't accept same sex couples."

"I'm so sorry, Twi," said Applejack lending a comforting hoof. "You sure you'll be alright?"

Twilight touched the hoof on her shoulder. "Yeah...I'll be fine."

After arriving back home, the two seldom spoke for the rest of the day. It was an eerie quiet that they weren't used to that could only mean Twilight was still discouraged; she kept her self cooped up in her study. By the end of the afternoon, Applejack finally disturbed the silence and poked her head in the room.

"Twilight? You there?" she announced softly. "I don't know if I told ya already, but I have to spend the night at the family farm. I have to get goin' soon." No response came. "Twilight? Darlin'?"

Applejack stepped inside the study to find Twilight bent over a table with her full concentration buried in a large tome. She didn't speak a word until Applejack approached her curiously.

"Applejack," she finally said with a smile. "I think I just found a way for us to have a child."

"I'm sorry, Twi," replied Applejack. "But if that orphanage won't let us adopt a kid then I don't know who will."

"That's just it," Twilight suddenly seemed hopeful. "We won't have to adopt. We can create our very own foal. And not just a child, but an actual baby!"

Applejack stared back befuddled. "...Beg pardon?"

That's when Twilight levitated the book to show her the page. "It's a new spell I found: the Impregnation Spell. When a couple is unable to conceive a child, one of them, that is if they're a unicorn of course, can simply use this spell to combine their genes and make them pregnant with a perfectly real child!"

"Yer sayin' you can use this spell for us?" gawked Applejack. "Sheeyoot, Twilight, just when I thought all that magic couldn't get any crazier!" She paused to think about the situation. "You really think we should do it?"

"Nopony is going to let us adopt, Applejack; this is the only way." Twilight smiled. "This is our chance to finally have our own little foal!"

Applejack couldn't help but match her wife's smile. "Well heck, if you wanna go through with it, I'm with ya all the way, Twi."

"Oh I'm so glad you agree!...But there is one thing that I still don't get."

"...What is it?"

She turned to the spell tome again. "According to this, if the male casts the spell, then his wife will become pregnant. If the female casts it, then it'll work on herself just the same. But it doesn't say anything about mare couples."

"What are ya sayin', Twilight?"

"Applejack, this may sound strange, but the spell could affect either one of us. Most likely, it could be me because I'm the one casting it. But then again, you are technically my wife, so it could affect you. There's no way of knowing which one of us will be pregnant with our child."

Applejack shook her head from the shock of the complication. "Darn, that's some heavy truth there. I used to imagine what it would be like having a kid, but not exactly like this."

"Either way, we would still have one." Twilight continued. "We just couldn't tell which one of us would bare the burden."

"Then I don't see any reason why we shouldn't go through with it."

Twilight paused to consider the situation she was dealt with. "Applejack, if I cast this spell, I just want you to know that I hope it's me. I don't want you to be left with the burden. You've already done so much."

"What are ya kiddin'?!" Applejack suddenly replied cockily. "Have you forgotten I'm the toughest mare in Ponyville? I've taken on worse stuff! If I have to carry a child then bring it on!"

"You'd really be happy with it?"

"Anythin' fer you, darlin'!" she grinned proudly.

Twilight smiled back. "You really are the best, you know that?"

After a few more minutes of mental preparation, the couple was finally ready to begin the biggest stage in their relationship. Twilight charged the magic within her horn and braced herself as she looked at Applejack.

"You ready?" she asked.

"Whenever you are."

"Okay, here it goes."

With that, the two closed their eyes as Twilight began the Impregnation Spell. As with most spells, a purple aura surged from her horn and formed a sparkling cloud above. Then, the cloud extended two smaller auras which surrounded Twilight and Applejack, who were holding each other as they braced for the unexpected. After the magic continued surging for another minute, an odd low whirring sound pulsated as a new shape appeared; a round shape which contained a strange amoeba-like form inside. The whirring grew louder and louder until finally, the magical aura fizzled away and the spell concluded.

Applejack and Twilight opened their eyes and waited for anything. The room was silent once again as the spell had left an eerie calm.

"...Well? Did it work?" asked Applejack.

"I don't know." Twilight responded checking the air for more of the spell's effects. "Do you feel any different?"

Applejack awkwardly felt her stomach for any sign of pregnancy. "Heck if I know. What about you?"

"No, me neither." Then, Twilight thought of something rather discouraging. "Maybe...it didn't work?"

"What? With yer magic? I It had to have worked."

"Well, it's not like pregnant mares know it instantly. Maybe the effects don't kick in until later, like most long term spells."

"Oh yeah, good point." Applejack thought. "Maybe I should stay with you for the night; just to see what happens."

Twilight smiled. "No, you go ahead and stay with your family; I'll be fine. I guess all we have to do is wait and see."

"Yeah. Well, if anything, I really hope it's me." Applejack laid a kiss on her lover's head. "Goodnight, Twi, I love you."

"I love you too, AJ." Twilight replied before Applejack set off. From then on, all the both of them would have to do was wait.

...

The very next morning, Twilight awoke in her bed, unusually alone; what was also unusual was the way she felt getting up. She opened one eye at the clock, which wasn't set to ring, and read the time: 10:00 AM. It was not like Twilight to sleep in that much, being a studious early bird; but today, she felt especially sluggish. A slight lightness was lingering in her head as she slowly sat up to shake off the morning dew. But more importantly, she realized something truly strange as she sat up on the bedside.

"Wow, I've never felt more hungry in my entire life." Twilight mumbled to herself. She then pressed her hoof to her temple. "Ugh, I still feel so tired," she sighed. "But I better get to making breakfast."

After finally pulling herself out of bed, Twilight slumped down the stairs to the kitchen with her stomach grumbling. "Hmm, I wonder what I should have."

It wasn't long before she prepared a nice hefty breakfast of two omelettes with strawberries, petunias, pickles, and mayonnaise, followed by a stack of waffles topped with chocolate syrup, peanut butter, marshmallows, cream cheese, and oat flakes, followed by Prench toast which included grilled peppers, anchovies, and plenty of fresh salsa; all of which was washed down with a peculiar orange juice/half n' half mixture. After topping it all off with a cup of ice cream with raspberry drizzle, almonds and more marshmallows, Twilight sat back in her chair and picked her teeth, leaving the sink overflowing with dirty dishes.

"Hmm, that was pretty good," she pondered. "But I'm still a little bit hungry. Eh, I'll just wait until lunch."

After not washing the dishes, Twilight retired back upstairs to the bathroom to wash her face. But she still felt the mass of fatigue from when she woke up as she stared into the mirror and pulled down her lower eyelid.

"What is wrong with me today? I still feel so sluggish. What did I do last night to...wait a minute."

Suddenly springing to action, Twilight stepped onto the bathroom scale. Minus the amount of concocted food she had jus consumed, her weight still seemed a bit more than she expected.

"Could it be?"

Then, she knew just what to do. Twilight sat on her haunches and inspected her abdomen. She ran her hoof over her belly and was shocked to feel the slightest bit of roundness. Then, she focused her hoof over the bump and waited until at last, she felt it: a tiny second heartbeat.

Twilight gasped. "Oh my gosh...it's me!" She stood in astonishment. "I'm pregnant! The spell worked on me! Of course, it was so obvious! I was the one who cast it; it had to work on me! I can't believe it! APPLEJACK!"

With a quickened pace, Twilight hurried downstairs to bring the good news to her love. She was completely elated, already imagining the look on Applejack's face when she would find out that the spell was a success. As she approached the front door, she prepared herself to burst out of the library and sprint down the road to Sweet Apple Acres. But she was immediately stopped by Applejack who was already standing at the doorstep with a brimming smile on her face.

"Applejack?! What are you doing here?"

"Twilight, it worked! The spell worked on me! I'm pregnant!"

"..."

"Oh my gosh, I can't believe it! I'm gonna be the mother of our foal! Oh you should see your face right now; you're completely speechless! Sugracube, even your eye is a twitchin'! I still can't believe it either! Oh I'm just so happy!!!"

Two For One

Chapter 9: Two For One

"You...you've gotta be kiddin' me!"

"Does this look like my kidding face, Applejack?!"

Twilight and Applejack stood in disbelief after the latter had just abruptly shown up at the library. They had just realized that their little magical experiment from the night before was successful...a little too successful.

"You mean to tell me the spell worked on us both?!" Applejack reiterated.

"That's what I just said!" replied Twilight. "This means we're having two kids!"

"...Um, is that really such a bad thing?"

Twilight thought for a moment as the mood settled down. "Well, I guess not."

"Sure it ain't!" smiled Applejack rather quickly. "We're havin' two kids, Twi! Twins! It's better than we could've hoped for!"

"I know but..." Twilight looked uneasy. "It's just, I don't know...weird."

"Weird?! What's weird about it? It's a miracle!"

"But, what will everypony say? The couple that's both pregnant with a child? I don't know what that's going to be like. It's just unnatural!"

Applejack looked at her wife with a firm face. "Twilight, come on, yer startin' to sound like one of those nuns."

With that, Twilight realized exactly what she was saying. She suddenly felt guilty about her doubtful words. "Oh Applejack, you're right, I'm so sorry. Maybe I'm just getting a little crazy from this whole experience. I guess having a baby changes you. I can't imagine what it's going to be like nine months from now."

"Heck, you think you're nervous?" smirked Applejack. "I have no idea how to me a mom; much less to two kids!"

"I agree; I'm sure raising a foal isn't exactly like raising a dragon." Twilight paused to think. "You know, there might just be somepony who can help give us some parenting advice."

"Well, whoever ya got in mind, we should go see them now; this kid's already slowin' me down. Hey by the way, when exactly are ya gonna break the news to Spike?"

"I...already heard everything." Spike stood in the doorway to his room staring at the couple with a perplexed and slightly traumatized expression.

"Oh, morning Spike!" greeted Twilight sheepishly. "Uh, so yeah, we're both pregnant...with two kids...it was a spell...see you in a bit!"

...

"Oh my gosh, I'm so happy for you two!" beamed Fluttershy after greeting her married friends to her cottage. "What other can say they're both pregnant with their first children?!"

"It's certainly taken us by surprise." Twilight replied, sitting next to her pregnant other on the sofa. "But as it turns out, we really have no idea how to raise foals."

"So, we were wonderin' if you could give us some pointers, bein' a caretaker n' all." Applejack added.

"Oh...really?" asked Fluttershy in bewilderment. "Um, well, I hate to sound negative, but I don't know anymore about foals than you two. I'm a vet, not a nanny."

"Well, how much different could it be?" shrugged Applejack. "Raisin' a kid shouldn't be too different from raisin', I don't know, a puppy. Besides, you're the best caretaker of anythin' we know."

"Gosh, Applejack, thanks. I suppose I can give you some advice." Fluttershy looked off to the side to ponder for a moment. "Hmm...well, one of the most important things to remember is feeding your child."

"Obviously." Twilight nodded.

"Now, you have to remember to feed them dry food twice a day, and add wet food every other day. And also-"

"Um, Fluttershy, we're talkin' about foals, not puppies." Applejack glowered instantly regretting coming to the pegasus for advice.

"Oh, gosh, sorry! Um..." Fluttershy took a second to gather herself. "Oh, I got it, potty training."

"Potty trainin'?" winced Applejack at the thought.

"Yes, make sure to lay out some newspaper or train them to go in a litter box. But if they go on the carpet, then you have to rub their nose in-"

"Uh heh heh, Fluttershy, you're doing it again." Twilight said, trying to keep her cool.

"Oh jeez, I'm sorry Twilight." Fluttershy then repeated to herself. "Think! Foals! Foals!" Then, she suddenly remembered the night she spend foalsitting the Cutie Mark Crusaders. She also remembered the searing migraine that followed. "Well, now that I think about it, Applejack, how do you treat Apple Bloom and her friends?"

"Why, I pretty much treat Apple Bloom as if she were my own." Applejack answered. "She does look up to me after all."

"Yeah, that's kind of how I treat Spike as well." Twilight added.

"Well maybe that's it." Fluttershy smiled. "Twilight, you've known Spike ever since he hatched, and you've been taking care of him from then on. And Applejack, you may be Apple Bloom's sister, but you're more parent to her than anypony. Don't you see? You two shouldn't come to me for parenting advice. If you could raise Apple Bloom and Spike just right, then I don't see how you couldn't do the same with your very own children."

"That...actually makes a lot of sense." Applejack blinked. She had never thought of her relationship with her little sister that way before.

"Gosh, you're right, Fluttershy." Twilight said. "I bet we will make great mothers. Wow, thanks anyway for the help, Fluttershy; sometimes I think you're smarter than me."

"Teehee." Fluttershy blushed. "I'm happy to help, Twilight. Um, if you both will excuse me, I have to take care of my kids."

"Say what now?" queried Applejack.

"The baby goats." Fluttershy answered grabbing a hefty bag of herbs. "I have to feed them or else they'll get cranky."

With that, Twilight and Applejack showed themselves out with new-found anticipation. "Well then, I guess we really have nothing to worry about." Twilight said.

"I knew it all along." Applejack boasted. "I knew you would make a good mother. If Spike turned out okay, then that baby yer carryin' is gonna be just fine!"

"I should say the same about you." Twilight smiled. "But I'm just happy that we'll really be experiencing this together."

"I wouldn't have it any other way, sugarcube. I really wouldn't."

...

One Month Later...

"Applejack, I'm home!" called Twilight as she returned to the library levitating groceries. After a full moth of pregnancy, she had already begun to show her signs of maternity. Her belly began to take on its round shape ensuring that her baby was growing healthily. She also knew the same went for her loving partner.

"I couldn't find your favorite brand of oats, so I hope you don't mind the store bought kind." Twilight set aside the groceries to join her wife for cuddling; but there was some uneasiness in the room.

She spotted Applejack sitting on the couch slumped over with a dower expression that was truly unusual. She was definitely sad, but not entirely depressed; more confused than anything. Twilight sensed her lover's disdain and approached her.

"AJ? What's wrong?" she asked, but received no response. "Come on, sweetheart, you can tell me."

After a few long seconds of cold silence, Applejack finally answered while continuing to stare at the floor blankly. "Twilight...it's gone."

"Huh? What's gone? What are you..." Twilight then realized what she meant and gasped. "You can't be serious."

Applejack peered up at her soberly. "I am serious, Twi. The baby's not there. It's just...gone!"

"But...how could that happen?"

"I have no idea! I'm not crazy, Twilight. I've been feelin' that little critter growin' inside me for the past month. But while you were out, I felt my stomach at one point and..." she took a moment to shake off the depressing shock. "There was nothin' there! No bump, no heartbeat, no nothin'! And I swear, I had nothin' to do with it! I've even been eatin' healthy just like ya said."

"Applejack, I...I don't know what to say." Twilight thought hard as to what may have caused this mystery. She shuddered at the possibility of the M word. "Maybe it was just a side effect of the spell. I guess that's what happens when two mares try it." Twilight reached a hoof over her saddened partner. "Are you going to be alright?"

"I don't know, Twi, I just don't know." She only looked downward again. "It's scary; one moment there was a livin' thing inside me, then the next moment, it's just not there anymore. I've never felt so...empty." After lingering for a minute, Applejack finally slumped over and rested her head in Twilight's lap.

Twilight stroked her blonde mane as she spoke. "Applejack, I'm so sorry for you. After all that you had to put up with, you shouldn't have to have something like that taken away from you. I feel like such a weight right now. Won't you let me take care of you instead?"

That's when Applejack turned her eyes upward. She raised her head, strangely seeming to perk up, stared back at Twilight. To her wife's complete surprised, she smirked. "Are you kiddin'? I've been takin' care of you this long; that doesn't mean I can't keep goin'." Applejack gently laid her hoof on Twilight's stomach. "We still got one baby on the way, Twi, and yer gonna be its proud mother. And I think that's just the way it was meant to be."

Twilight stared at her flabbergasted. "AJ, are you sure you're alright?"

"Don't you worry about me, Twilight," she replied warmly. "Yer the pregnant one now, and I'm gonna stick by you all the way."

In that moment, Twilight could not even look at her caring wife, as she was moved by her sacrifice. But eventually, she managed to wrap her hooves around Applejack and cry tears of joy into her shoulder. "You're too good to me, Applejack. I love you so much."

"I love you too, Twilight." Applejack grasped her. "You're too good for me." She then rubbed her hoof over the unicorn's bump. "Wow, I can feel the little critter kickin' in there."

"Yeah," replied Twilight, still nuzzling her. "I think it's just as happy as I am."

A Mare's Love

Chapter 10: A Mare's Love

Eight Months Later...

It was just another average work day at the Ponyville library as customers came in for checking in and checking out. Only this time, the tree was temporarily under new management.

"Thanks ever so much for lending me this birdwatcher's guide." Fluttershy said. "You're doing a really great job running the library, Applejack."

"It sure is easier than I thought." Applejack replied. "Just give ponies books and a smile; certainly easier than pullin' apple carts. I guess this is how Twilight finds the time to study magic."

"She certainly is lucky to have you. Best of luck to you two and your baby!"

"Thanks, Fluttershy. See ya later now!"

Applejack continued to help customers with finding the right book until closing time was just minutes away. She then decided to head into the nearby bedroom which she had traded with Spike for the upstairs one. She poked inside and called softly.

"Twilight, you decent?"

"Come in, Applejack," replied Twilight resting on the bed her wife had moved down.

Applejack entered to check on the mother of her child. For the past three months, Twilight had been spending most of her time bedridden, as her baby had grown quite charge. She had become slowed down by the later stages of maternity, enough to make her unable to work, let alone leave her house. So, Applejack offered to take over the library while her pregnant wife lied in bed stroking her engorged belly; Twilight would even hum sweetly to introduce the baby to its mother's soothing voice.

"How ya doin', sugarcube?" asked Applejack approaching the bed. "Or should I say 'sugarlump'."

"Har de har har." Twilight mocked. "You know me, I got the little scamp keeping me busy. I swear, it feels like it's going to burst out of my stomach."

"Eugh!" Applejack cringed at the thought. "Maybe you just need some more water."

"No I'll be fine. How's business going?"

"Oh it's such back breakin' work!" she replied with sarcasm. "I don't know how ya do it!"

"Did you remember to separate the biographies?"

"...Uh...yeah, yeah definitely...I remembered." She lied. "You sure you don't need anything, darlin'?"

"I'm okay, Applejack," smiled Twilight, rubbing her belly. She then stretched her neck to kiss her love. "You just take care of the library; it's almost closing time anyway."

"Whatever ya say, Twi." Applejack kissed her back and returned outside, leaving her in peace. A few minutes before closing, she took care of the last customer.

"And here's your dress gallery book, Rarity." She said.

"Thank you, Applejack." Rarity replied. "You're doing just as well as Twilight."

"Well, somepony's gotta do it, since she's bedridden."

"The poor dear; she is so lucky to have you taking care of her. It looks like she's also gotten quite...heavy. Will she be due soon?"

"Any day now; but I'll be ready for it."

"Oh I do wish you two the best of luck! Well I don't want to keep you up; goodnight, Applejack!"

"Goodnight Rarity, thanks again!"

With that, the library was finally empty as Applejack closed shop. The work may have been easy but it was still tiring. She decided to retire to her temporary bedroom with her expecting wife. But when she entered to check on her again, she saw that rest and relaxation was still far away.

"Twilight! Are you alright?!"

Applejack gawked as Twilight was writhing and heaving on the bed with a pained grimace on her face. "Applejack!" she cried between quickened breaths. "It's...it's time!"

"Sweet Celestia, we gotta get movin'!"

The hour had finally come. In a mad dash, Applejack managed to lift Twilight and her increased weight all the way outside to a cart which had been readied for this exact moment. Twilight lied in the hay as she continued to writhe in pain.

"AH! Hurry!" she gaped.

"Hang on, Twi," said Applejack from the front. "I'll get you to the hospital faster than Big Mac runs from a spider!"

It became a race against time as Applejack hightailed it to the Ponyville hospital. She did not even move aside for faster traffic, because she was already the fastest one on the road. But all the while, she kept her beloved Twilight safe within the cart. At long last, they reached the hospital where doctors were ready and waiting outside.

"Don't worry, Twilight," said Applejack as she came around. "Yer gonna be just fine."

But Twilight was already weakening. "Applejack...I...I can't..." she tried to speak as she began to drift off.

"What is it, sweetie? What's wrong?"

"I...I can't make it...I can't..."

"Oh no! Oh no, please, no!" Applejack tried to stir her wife back awake, but Twilight had already fainted from exhaustion. "Doctor!" she cried for help as she feared the worst.

...

It wasn't long before the drama had finally settled. Applejack found herself later that night pressing her face against a window and watching doctors treating her wife. Twilight, now completely unconscious, had been laid out on a bed and hooked up to life support to keep both her and her precious cargo alive. It was a dismal sight for Applejack, not knowing what would become of her. It reminded her of that fateful night when she rescued her from drowning. But the tension was soon broken when the chief nurse on call entered.

"Nurse Redheart!" Applejack greeted anxiously. "Please tell me, is she gonna be alright?"

"She's stable for now," replied the nurse calmly. "It seems when she went into labor, the load was just too much for her. But she just might make it."

"Oh, my poor Twilight." Applejack looked back through the window, having never felt so helpless. "I don't know how she's gonna survive the birth."

"There's nothing to worry about, Applejack," smiled Redheart. "I've seen worse cases; she'll be just fine. It was the Impregnation Spell, wasn't it?"

"Uh...yeah." She answered a bit shocked by the question. "How did ya know?"

"Well, I figured somepony like Twilight would do something like that. Although I will admit, this is the first time I've ever heard of a mare couple doing it. I heard a while ago that you two married."

Applejack sighed. "You must think we're complete foals, tryin' something like that gosh darn spell."

"Not at all, Applejack," retorted Redheart, stepping closer. "You two decided to have a baby and you went through with it. There's nothing foalish about that...and I think my wife would agree with me."

"...Wait...you mean you're a...a-"

"Yes, I'm a filly fooler." She nodded without shame.

This was complete news to Applejack. "But...but with who?!"

"Why who else do you think? Colgate! Haven't you ever seen us together?"

Applejack only gawked. "...I knew it!"

"That's right, and I love her with all my heart. But even Colgate and I haven't even considered having children yet. The fact that you and Twilight took your relationship to a that level is certainly inspiring; and that you agreed with her to use that spell is even more admirable." Redheart lent a comforting hoof to Applejack's shoulder. "My point is, Applejack, if you love Twilight enough to go through so much with her, then I don't see how she won't survive with your love."

"You really think so?"

"I know so. Applejack, you're a mare, and a mare's love is stronger than that of any other creature. Trust me, I know."

With those words of wisdom, Applejack now looked at her pregnant wife with hope. She knew she had been through so much with her, and that they were both survivors. She looked back at the nurse with pride. "Thanks, Nurse Redheart, I'll be by her side the whole time."

"I'm glad to hear that. But you might want to get some rest. We need to operate quickly if we're going to save her and the babies."

"I understand, thanks for all the......did you say...babies?"

"That's right, Applejack," said Redheart with a wink. "She's carrying twins."

The Apple/Sparkle Family

Chapter 10: The Apple/Sparkle Family

"Push, Twilight, push!"

"AAAAH!"

The moment of truth had finally arrived. Twilight lay in her hospital bed as her delivery was underway. And of course, as promised, Applejack stood by her side clutching her hoof.

"You can do this, girl," she cheered her on. "I know it!"

"Agh! It hurts so much!" Twilight cried in response as sweat streamed down her face.

"You're doing just fine, Twilight," said Nurse Redheart, performing midwife. "The baby's almost here."

For the next few minutes, Twilight writhed and thrashed her head in agony as the miracle was passing out of her body. But somewhere in her mind, she knew it would soon be over and she and Applejack would rejoice.

"You're doin' great, Twi," smiled Applejack. "But uh, you're kinda givin' my hoof quite a squeeze. Youch!" she gritted her teeth, masking the pain in her hoof. "Yup, yer doin' just fine!"

"Okay, here's the head!" announced Redheart. "It's just about through!"

"AAAAAAAAAGH!"

Twilight screamed in intense pain as she made the final push. Then, with her energy spent, her head fell back on the pillow and she began to drift off from exhaustion. Applejack waited to hear the good news.

"Well Nurse? What happened?" she asked anxiously.

A long silent pause settled in the delivery room before Redheart finally said the words everypony had been waiting to hear. "Congratulations, Twilight, it's a filly!"

Applejack smiled from ear to ear upon hearing the announcement. She turned to her wife who was close to passing out again. "Did ya hear that, Twilight? It's a filly!"

Slowly but surely, Twilight began to stir back awake. After a few blinks of nothing but blurry vision, she finally opened her eyes and saw her.

Cradled in Redheart's hoof was her newborn baby filly, complete with a bright orange coat and a tiny stub of a unicorn's horn. The infant foal wept as she took her first breaths of oxygen. Twilight was overcome.

"Oh my gosh!" she beamed at the darling sight. "A filly! Our very own little girl! Oh I'm so hap- AAAAH!" but a new rush of sharp pain told her that it was not over yet.

"Hang on now," said Redheart after handing the filly to another nurse. "Here comes the other one!"

"WHAT?!?!"

"Oh yeah," Applejack chuckled sheepishly. "I forgot to mention that. Sorry, Twi."

"APPLEJACK I'M GOING TO KILL YOU!"

"Don't worry, that's what all new mothers in labor say." Redheart said reassuringly.

A sudden sense of déjà vu hit everypony as Twilight commenced with berthing her second child, not a minute after the first one. Again, she wriggled and writhed in pain, and took quick deep gasps for air. Applejack continued to cheer her on, but at this point, her words meant nothing to the aggravated new mother. Several more minutes passed before the final stretch arrived.

"Okay, Twilight, just give me one last push." Redheart instructed. "Remember to breathe, dear."

Twilight gasped dramatically. "Oh dear Celestia I can't do it!"

"Yes you can, Twilight." Applejack leaned into her. "You've done so many things that no other pony could do. You're the strongest pony I know, darlin'. Now you bring this kid to the world; I know you can do it!" she laid a kiss on her moist sweating head.

Taking in more gasps of air, Twilight prepared herself for the final final push. With one long cry, she strained every muscle in her body to bring forth the second baby, until she finally ran out of breath. She lied back again panting as Redheart brought her the good news.

"It's a colt!"

"A colt? Really?!" responded Applejack, elated. She looked in Redheart's hooves to see another infant crying from the trauma of being born. This time, it was a male earth pony, with a deep purple coat. As the little colt was carried off to join his sister, Applejack leaned down and stroked Twilight's mane. The spent unicorn looked back with a soft smile.

"You did it, sugarcube, you really did it."

"We did it, Applejack." Twilight replied. "You were braver than I was."

Then, a theory came to Applejack's mind. "Hey, I just realized, we were gonna have two babies anyway when I was pregnant too. Do you think...do you think the spell may have done somethin'?"

"You're right, it must have been a side effect! Because it was used by two mares, it gave us two babies. And after you carried one of them for a while, the spell must have, I don't know, corrected itself and...somehow gave it to me!"

"So, in a certain way, I kind of...impregnated you? Holy smokes," Applejack shook her head. "That magic really is a crazy thing."

"Yeah...let's never use that spell again."

"Agreed."

At last, Redheart presented the new parents with their offspring after wrapping them in blankets. She placed them both in Twilight's hooves and they immediately ceased their crying. They began to feel their mother's embrace for the first time, their eyes not yet ready to open. Twilight and Applejack looked down at them heartfelt.

"Oh look at them," cooed Twilight. "They're so precious."

"Well of course they're beautiful." Applejack replied. "They look just like us...only reversed. Hmm, what do you think we should name them?"

"You name the colt; after all, you are technically the father, I guess."

"Makes sense, kind of." Applejack thought for a moment as she stared at the purple colt resting in Twilight's hoof. He even squirmed, trying to adjust to the comfort of his mother's breast. "I got it," said Applejack. "Cortland!"

"Cortland?" repeated Twilight.

"Yeah, it's a kind of apple. And it just happens to be my favorite kind of apple!"

"Cortland," Twilight tested out the name. "That's a very handsome name for a colt. Cortland Apple." She looked at the colt lovingly, ready to call him by his new name. But then, her eyes drifted to the colt's twin sister. "Now what about you, little one?" Twilight stared at the precious sleeping filly who gave a heart melting yawn. She admired the infant's bright summery coat and it immediately came to her. "Daylight! Daylight Sparkle!"

"Let me guess," said Applejack. "She looks like the sun doesn't she?"

"She looks like you, AJ;" smiled Twilight. "And just as beautiful."

Applejack blushed at the compliment. "Ah, ya still manage to do that after all these years!"

"Applejack, I don't know anypony else I would rather spend this moment with than you."

"I was just thinkin' the same thing." Applejack then gently hugged her warmly. "I love you, Twilight."

Twilight kissed her again. "I love you too, AJ."

...

Epilogue

Five Years Later...

As Celestia's sun shone over the Ponyville landscape, Applejack bound over the grassy field; and scampering alongside her was her darling son. Little Cortland followed her across the wide open field which led to the outskirts of Sweet Apple Acres until they finally came upon the apple trees.

"Applejack!" said the young colt jumping in place. "Come on, I want to start applebucking!"

"Settle down, Cortland," replied Applejack. "The trees are right here. Now, are ya ready?"

Cortland gave his rough and tough determined face, which he clearly had inherited from her. "I've been ready!"

"Alright, son, now go show those trees who's boss!"

With that, Cortland stepped up the a full apple tree with his game face on. After turning around, he reared back his hind legs and with all his might gave the trunk a swift mule kick; but none of the apples budged.

"Come on, Cortland, give it all ya got!" Applejack rallied him.

Cortland grunted as he continued to buck the stubborn tree. But after a few minutes of desperate trying, the sweet fruit did nothing more than shake where they hung. At this point, Cortland was ready to give up; but his hard headed parent wouldn't have any of it.

"Come on, son," she looked him in the eye. "Is that the best ya got? Just do it like how I showed ya! Are you gonna let those apples make fun of ya?"

With newly found confidence, Cortland narrowed his eyes again. "No way!" He approached the tree again and readied himself once more. Gathering all his strength and determination, Cortland pictured how Applejack showed him the correct technique to applebucking and gave it all he got. He gave one final devastating kick to the tree and waited. After several long suspenseful seconds, a single apple managed to plummet from its branch.

Cortland was elated. "I did it! Applejack, I did it! I knocked and apple down!"

"I knew you could do it, kiddo!" smiled Applejack as she picked him up in a hug. "I am so proud o' you!"

After celebrating his victory some more, Cortland raced her back to their house. It was a humble family fit cottage resting on a hilltop overlooking a great view of the town. And lying on the front lawn enjoying the sunset was Twilight and her beautiful daughter. She was showing Daylight a journal of spells she had learned over the years, inspiring the young unicorn to follow in her mother's path.

"Wow, so this spell lets you walk on clouds?" asked Daylight with amazement.

"It's very handy when visiting pegasus homes." Twilight nodded. "I'll teach you it soon when you're ready."

"Mommy, I want to be a smart unicorn just like you one day!"

"That is so sweet of you, Daylight," smiled Twilight. "I know you will someday."

But their peace was interrupted by the rougher half of the family. "Hey Daylight, watcha doin'?" teased Cortland. "Reading more nerd stuff?"

"Stop it, Cortland!" whined Daylight. "You dumb boys wouldn't know!"

"Ah come on, why don't you get out more?" Cortland taunted as he flipped through the pages of the spell tome getting the pages dirty.

"Cut it out!" ordered Daylight. "Applejack, make him stop!"

"It'l alright, Daylight." Applejack hushed before scolding her son. "Cortland, knock it off! Leave yer sister alone!"

"Ah jeez I was just teasin'!" Cortland kicked the dirt.

"Cortland, honey," said Applejack in her motherly tone. "Why don't you go play somewhere else for a while?"

The rambunctious colt couldn't refuse his mother's calm demeanor. "Okay, mom!" he said and hugged her before cantering off.

Applejack started to follow him, but then looked back at her wife. "I don't know how you manage to control that boy."

"All it takes is a little love." Twilight boasted.

"Well, you sure are good at it." She shared a nuzzled with her.

"I said it before, I love you, AJ."

"I love you, Twilight."

After Applejack headed off, Daylight looked at her mother curiously. "Mommy, I was wondering, how did you and Applejack meet? And how did you fall in love?"

Twilight looked down at her daughter and could not help but smile. "Now that, Daylight, is a story I'll be happy to tell..."

THE END

Matters At Home

Chapter 5: Matters At Home

The next morning, Twilight sat on her couch in the main room of the library, feeling quite refreshed and revitalized. She had decided to wait to open the library, as she busied herself with an archaic spell book and a piping hot cup of lemon tea. After enjoying her peaceful morning for a bit longer, Twilight heard the front door open and she greeted her faithful assistant.

"Hi Spike," she said. "I see you had a good time last night."

The little dragon stumbled inside with a lampshade upon his head. "You said it. Things really got crazy when Pinkie moved the party to her place."

"Well, there's no party like a Pinkie party."

Spike walked up to his companion. "So, what happened last night?" he asked curiously. "I thought I saw you and Applejack having a bit of a fight. Is everything okay bewteen you two?"

Twilight darted her eyes slightly, recalling the events of the night before, and having almost forgotten that it was her own birthday. "Oh yeah. Uh, don't worry, Spike. We had a slight argument, but AJ and I have already settled things."

"You sure? What exactly were you arguing about?"

Then, she paused for a moment to choose her words carefully. She had already told Spike about her romance with Applejack, but she dared not share with him about her private moment after the party. After thinking for a bit more, Twilight replied with a fib. "Um...the uh...the punch! Yeah, uh, apparently the fruit punch was a bit too sweet for Applejack, but I didn't think so...Yup." She smiled sheepishly.

Spike looked at her with a suspicious eye. "Seriously?"

"Well, you know AJ." Twilight chuckled. "She sure is picky about...party drinks."

"Eh, as long as you two are still cool." Spike shrugged then proceeded to the kitchen. "Ugh, do we have any stomach tablets? I really pigged out on candy and gems last night."

As Spike dissapeared into the kitchen, Twilight heard another door open, only much slower. She peered up at the top of the staircase and caught Applejack's face peeking out of her bedroom doorway. With a hushed gasp, Twilight realized her dilema having forgotten about letting her marefriend sleep in. She then did a double-take at the kitchen, making sure Spike was still out of view, and waved her hoof gesturing her partner to escape quietly. Applejack took the hint and tiphoofed down the stairs.

Suddenly, as she reached the bottom, Spike's voice was heard approaching from the kitchen.

"Hey Twi," the dragon said as he entered. "What happened to you after the party anyway? You and AJ just kinda dissapeared."

Alert, Twilight snapped her head around toward her assistant. She quickly darted her eyes to the left for a split second to see a banded blonde tail sticking out from behind a potted ficus. It was the least descrete hiding place in the room, but Spike still had no clue.

Twilight feigned a smile and replied. "Oh, uh, well, it was getting kind of crowded. So Applejack and I, uh, went out for dinner and she headed home afterwards. Nothing too crazy." She began to sweat nervously.

"You know, I'm glad you and AJ are together now. I guess I'll be seeing her around more often." Spike said as he turned back away.

With the coast clear, Applejack poked her head out from behind the plant and Twilight gestured to her, frantically. The earth pony slowly creeped towards the front door, being careful not to disturb a creaky floorboard. At last, she was home free; that is until Twilight's curious pet owl landed on the doorknob.

"Hoot! Hoot hoot!" Owlowiscious exclaimed over and over at the orange visitor.

Applejack desperately tried to quell the loud bird. "Shoo! Go on! Get out of 'ere ya crazy owl!" she whispered harshly.

"Owlowiscious, be quiet!" hissed Twilight.

"What's wrong with Owlowiscious?" asked Spike, on his way back in again with a glass of seltzer in hand. "He sounds pretty spooked."

With her only exit blocked, Applejack quickly dove under the coffee table in front of Twilight's couch before she could be spotted. She slid under with a clumsy bumb and struggled to hold back an exclamation of pain.

Twilight tried to pretend she wasn't there. "Uh, he just saw a mouse run by." She answered her dragon.

Owlowiscious remained on the doorknob and continued to hoot angrily at Applejack, having seen her dive under the table.

Spike looked in the direction the owl was yelling at. "We have mice? I'll take of this." He narrowed his reptilian eyes and walked over to the mouse hiding under the coffee table.

Twilight gasped and suddenly sprang to her hooves, blocking his path. "No! Don't! Um, uh, it's a really big mouse! A really big, magical mouse; very dangerous. Uh, just let me take of it. No plroblem." She smiled awkwardly as she cast a silence spell on her hooting pet.

Spike stared at her in confusion; but then walked off with a dismissive wave. "Whatever you say. I think I'll go lie down for a while. Hope you had a good birthday last night."

"Yup, sure did." Twilight replied in a shooing manner. "Sleep tight, Spike."

Finally, the hungover dragon dissapeared into the bedroom leaving Twilight to sigh with relief. Applejack crawled out from under the table and joined next to her on the couch, with a kiss on the cheek.

"Ya think he suspects anything?" she asked.

Twilight smiled back. "Probably. But I think he'll forget all about it after he wakes up." She then nuzzled her companion's neck lovingly. "Thanks, by the way."

"Think nothin' of it, sugarcube." Applejack gave her a warm squeeze.

"Um, Applejack," resumed Twilight taking her time. "I was wondering if you could do something with me."

"What did ya have in mind?"

"Well, you see, after I cleaned up the mess from the party, I found an ad for a couples counselor. And, well, I thought it might be helpful to pay this pony a visit."

Applejack blinked. "Are you sayin' we need counselin'?"

"It couldn't hurt. I mean, I'm not exactly experienced with romance, other than with you. Plus, I think it could help relieve any tension you still have."

For a moment Applejack puased to think. It felt to her as if she was being offered mental therapy. But she learned her lesson about saying no to the love of her life and decided to comply. "Well, I guess it wouldn't too bad. You are the brains after all."

"Thanks so much, AJ." Twilight leaned on her. "I feel like I owe you."

Applejack stroked her purple mane. "Well, how about some quick smoochin' before I go?" she offered suavely.

"Sounds just fine to me." Twilight grinned and became locked in a close embrace.

But before the two could commence kissing, the upstairs door opened and Spike's voice was heard. Applejack ducked behind the back of the couch.

"Twilight," called Spike, peeking out of the doorway. "Can you make me those sapphire waffles you make for sick days?"

Twilight sulked like an overworked mother. "Fine, Spike!" she called back. As the bedroom door closed, she turned back to Applejack. "I don't suppose you're in the mood for sapphire waffles instead."

...

A week later, the marefriends found themselves in a waiting room with a secretary filing away papers and her hoof. As Twilight read an issue of magic monthly, Applejack sat stiff in anticipation.

"You sure you want to do this, Twi?" she asked. "I mean, we don't really need this much help, do we?"

"Don't worry about it, AJ," replied Twilight. "I'm sure this Dr. P will just give us a few pointers. It'll be fine."

After listening on the phone briefly, the secretary spoke to the couple. "Twilight Sparkle, Applejack, Dr. P will see you now."

"Thank you." Twilight walked beside her partner into the other room closing the door behind them.

They entered a small office complete with a mahogany desk, filing cabinets, and various motivational posters including one of Derpy on a tree branch saying "Hang in there, baby!" Behind the large desk was a leather swivel chair facing the wall with somepony seeming to occupy it. Twilight and Applejack sat down in the two smaller chairs in front and stared in confusion, figuring this was the alleged Dr. P. After a minute of awkward silence, Twilight finally spoke up.

"Um, excuse me? Dr. P? We're here for your three o' clock appointment."

"Well it's about time!"

The leather chair swiveled around revealing Pinkie Pie wearing eye glasses and a fake beard. "Because the doctor is IN!"

Applejack gawked. "Pinkie?! You're our couples counselor?!"

Twilight wore the same reaction. "I swear, AJ, I had no idea!"

"That's Doctor Pinkie to you, madame!" replied the pink mare as she puffed on a bubble pipe.

"Pinkie, since when do you know anything about counseling?" demanded Twilight.

"Are you kidding? I've always been a pro at love advice. How do you think Mr. and Mrs. Cake met?"

Twilight stared in astonishment. "I've...never really thought about that."

"But what makes you think you can help?" asked Applejack.

"Well, when I was at Twilight's birthday party last week," said Pinkie as she blew more bubbles. "I overheard you two having a nasty little argument. So before moving the party elsewhere, I left behind my card and the next morning, Twilight scheduled an appointment with my secretary and here we all are!"

Applejack put a hoof to her face and rubbed her brow, struggling to take in the situation and wondering how in Equestria Pinkie managed to get a secretary.

"So, how can Doctor Pinkie help the lovely couple?" asked Pinkie resting her head in her hoof.

Twilight looked at Applejack for moment and shrugged, figuring nothing could go wrong. "Well, Pinkie- uh, Dr. Pinkie, the reason I took your ad was because we think we could use some better relationship advice; we're, uh, still kind of new to this stuff."

"No problem, Twilight!" smiled Pinkie. "It's perfectly natural to for a couple to find help. But before I can begin, I need to know how you two tick, and tock. I'll just run a few tests, as I am a psychologist."

"Apparently." Applejack sighed.

Then, Pinkie held up a stack of large white cards with ink blots on them. "Now, tell me what you see here."

The other two stared at the first ink blot for a few seconds before Twilight answered. "Um...an open book."

"Alrighty, and how about you, AJ?"

Applejack took slightly longer to formulate and answer. "...Spilled coffee?"

With that, Pinkie showed the next one. "What do you see now?"

Twilight studied the next blot hard, and calmly gave her answer again. "A candle."

"And you, Applejack?"

The farm pony simply scratched her head at the drawing. "Uh, a splattered tomato?"

"Good, good." Pinkie nodded then held up the third. "And what about here?"

"You at the beach?" said Twilight.

"You at the beach." Applejack repeated.

"That's weird, you both see the same thing."

"Pinkie, that's a photograph." Twilight replied, eyelids lowered.

Pinkie looked at the framed photo of herself. "Oh yeah! I forgot about that one." She said befoe tossing it aside. "Well, it looks like you two are mentally healthy so far. Next I'm going to try something else; I'll say a word and you say the first word that comes to mind." Immediately, she leaned far over the desk and froze just inches away from Twilight's face. She stared at her intently for a moment, making Twilight extremely uncomfortable, before uttering a single word. "Duck!"

Twilight darted her eyes awkwardly. "Uh...pond."

Pinkie continued the test and Tiwlight followed aptly.

"Sugar!" "Cookie." "Door!" "Knob." "Wheel!" "Roll." "Red!" "Apple." "Spoon!" "Fork. "Spoon!" "Fork." "Spoon!" "Fork." "Spoon!" "Fork." "Fork!" "Spoon."

"Aha!" Pinkie finally sat back down in her chair. "Now that you pass for mental fitness, Twilight, I'd like to try something with Applejack." As her patients shrugged at each other in confusion, Pinkie rummaged through a drawer and pulled out a brass pocket watch on a chain. "Now, AJ, I want you to keep your eyes on this watch." She said as she began to swing it from side to side.

"Um, okay." Applejack did as told, still suspicious.

"Look deep into the watch." Pinkie continued in monotone. "Relax your mind. You are starting to feel tired."

"Wait a minute." Twilight said, ignored.

"You are getting sleepy. Your eyelids are feeling very heavy."

As Pinkie predicted, Applejack began to lower her eyelids and her face became sagged. Strangely enough, her jaw hung open slightly and even her pupils rolled up behind her lids, leaving her in a zombie-like state.

Pinkie persisted. "Sleepy...yes...sleeeeeepyyyyyyyyy-"

"Pinkie!" interrupted Twilight, causing the doctor to stop. "Don't you think you're taking this psychology thing a little far? We're trying to get a few pointers on romance, and you just hypnotized Applejack."

"Oh right; sorry about that, Twilight." Pinkie replaced the watch and finally got down to business. "So, what exactly do you need help with?"

"Well, a lot of times, AJ can be pretty...hesitant. She seems to get nervous whenever I make big suggestions. I would never really expect that from her."

"I see." Pinkie nodded. "What has she been nervous about recently?"

That's when Twilight became nervous herself. "Uh, well, a week ago, after my party, I told her I wanted to have our first...intimate moment. But Applejack didn't anything to do with it at first. I never seen her so apprehensive about anything. She's one of the strongest ponies I know."

"Well, have you ever seen her in a romantic relationship before with you?"

Twilight realized. "Come to think of it, no."

"Well there you go! You see, Twilight, love is a scary thing, and even the toughest ponies get nervous when it comes to being romantic. All you have to do is just let her breath every once in a while, and Applejack won't get so worked up."

"Gee, I guess that makes sense." Twilight pondered, surprised at her hyperactive friend's words of wisdom. "What do you think, Applejack?...Applejack?"

Unfortunately, Applejack was now fast asleep due to the effects of the hypnosis. Twilight gently shook her awake with a deep dream. "Timberwolves! Huh? What? Is it over?"

"I think we got all the advice we needed, AJ." Twilight shrugged.

"What?!" Applejack then glared over at Pinkie. "Ya didn't help me at all, ya quack!"

"Oh don't worry, AJ," smiled Pinkie as she conjured a couple of dolls and a lie detector. "I still have plenty more love advice for you two."

...

That night, a long day had already passed. Applejack spent most of the afternoon being subjected to Pinkie Pie's counseling and was just coming home from selling apples in the market. She entered the farmhouse hoping to get some well deserved rest and relaxation; but she would receive none. Upon entering the living room with a tired groan, she stopped in front of the faces staring back at her. Granny Smith had an unusually discerning look on her face, while Big Macintosh and little Apple Bloom simply stood aside with guilty expressions. Applejack scanned her eyes over all of them before speaking.

"Um, what's goin' on?" she asked.

"Well wah dontcha tell me?" replied Granny Smith sternly. "Just what were ya doin' today?"

"I was sellin' apples, Granny Smith," answered Applejack, surprised at her grandmother's tone. "You know that."

"What about this mornin'? Ah didn't see you in yer bed, certainly not."

That's when she began to worry. Applejack had hoped that her family hadn't caught on to her new love life and definitely had not intended to tell them some time soon. She struggled to think of an excuse. "Um, well, I, uh..."

"Don't bother comin' up with a lie, Applejack," resumed Granny Smith. "Ah already know everythin'. Ah know that you've been kanoodlin' with yer new marefriend like some gosh dang tomboy."

Applejack gasped, realizing her worst fear. "But- but how did you know?"

"Ah'll have you know yer big brother was kind enough to fess up."

Then, she looked to the side at her brother, who avoided her gaze and scratched the back of his hung head. "Big Mac, you- you told her?" she asked, with a betrayed look in her eyes.

"Ah'm so sorry, AJ," said Big Mac. "Ah wanted to keep it a secret, but Granny Smith knows when Ah'm hidin' somethin'."

"But how did you know in the first place?"

Big Mac only looked off to the side again, not wanting to answer.

"Go ahead, Big Mac," said Granny Smith. "There's no shame in tellin' the truth."

WIth that, the draftpony sighed in defeat of his grandmother's orders and answered. "It was Twilight. She told me you two were in love on the night of her party. But Ah never meant for Granny Smith to know, Ah swear, Applejack."

"Twilight told you?" Applejack repeated in quiet shock.

"Ah just can't believe it." Granny Smith shook her head in dissapointment. "In all mah years, Ah never thought one of mah own kin would go off filly foolin'; and with one of her own best friends! Here Ah thought you would marry a nice stallion one day. But this, Ah just can't accept."

"Please, Granny Smith," pleaded Applejack. "It's not like you think. Twilight n' I love each other and there's nothin' wrong with it."

"Ah'm sorry, but Ah think it's unnatural, immoral, and just plain strange. And as long as yer a part of it, Ah can't have ya under mah roof." Granny Smith gave a forceful hoof in the direction of the front door.

"Wait, are you...yer throwin' me out?" gasped Applejack.

"I would never want to do so, Applejack. But you've let me and the rest o' yer family down. Ah'm sorry, but mah mind's made up."

Applejack stared at her grandmother, with tears welling up. "Please, Granny Smith, ya can't kick me out of my own home."

The aging mare gave no response, but simply turned her head away from her granddaughter. Not even Big Macintosh could muster a word of protest to save his sister. In that cold silence, Applejack shut her eyes to keep back the tears and exited through the door in defeat. But as she drudged down the front path, she heard her little sister call after her.

"Applejack!" cried Apple Bloom who came cantering after her, with Big Mac alongside. As Applejack caught her in a tight hug, she spoke in a trembling voice. "Ah don't want you to leave. Please, don't go."

"It's alright, Apple Bloom," replied Applejack as strongly as she could. "I don't blame you or yer brother, but I can't stay if Granny Smith doesn't want me around."

Apple Bloom sniffled. "But Ah don't care if you love Twilight. Yer my big sister and I love you."

Applejack couldn't help but smile at her. "I'll be fine, sugarcube. I'm not goin' anywhere."

"This is mah fault, AJ," said Big Mac. "How can ya ever look at me again?"

"Don't beat yerself up, big brother. You two are my family and I can't be mad at ya. I'll see you both soon." With that, she gave one last squeezing hug to the both of them, before heading down the dirt road into town with her head hung in depression.

...

As Twilight restocked her shelves after another busy day at the library, it seemed like a pretty quiet night. Spike had already fallen fast asleep and business hours over, it looked like she would hit the hay soon as well. After closing a window, keeping out the chilled windy night, a knock came on the door. Twilight wasn't expecting anyone that night, let alone another customer, and approached the door to answer. Outside stood a solemn looking orange farm pony.

"Applejack?" Twilight queried. "What are you doing here? I thought you weren't staying with me tonight."

Without a word, Applejack slumped inside and kept her heavy eyes aimed at the floor. Twilight could see how pale and empty her demeanor was, and quickly sensed that something was up.

"AJ? What's wrong?" she asked, as Applejack stopped in the middle of the vacant library. "Did something happen?"

A cold brief silence fell before Applejack could mutter something, still without making eye contact. "You told Big Macintosh about us?"

Twilight gasped a little at the sudden statement, but she was quick to explain herself. "Well, yeah; it was the night of my party after our little...falling out. I told him why we were fighting and he didn't really seem too astonished. Look, I know you didn't want me telling your family, but Big Mac is trustworthy. And besides, what could happen if Granny Smith finds out?"

"Gee, I dunno," snapped Applejack as she turned around with a glare. "How about gettin' kicked out of my own house?"

Twilight blinked at her outburst. "What are you talking about?"

"Granny Smith knows, Twilight! She forced Big Mac to fess up and now she's gone and disowned me! Her own granddaughter! Now I can't even go back home and face her."

"Oh my gosh, Applejack, that's awful!" Twilight replied sympathetically. "I had no idea."

Now starting to tremble, Applejack plopped on the couch as she continued. "Do ya know what it's like, Twi? Do ya know what it's like to not be wanted in the place you grew up in all yer life? All because of a darned relationship? I told you, Twilight, I didn't want my family to know about you and me bein' together. Did ya ever even consider what might happen?" She paused to sniffle and wipe a tear from her eye, holding back as best as she could. "I've never felt more betrayed in my life." But she couldn't keep back the tears any longer. Applejack finally broke down and covered her face with her hat, hiding away her shame.

As her marefriend sat in uncontrollable sorrow, Twilight realized at that moment what she had been ignoring. "This was my fault." She said simply, joining next to her crying companion. "I've been much too pushy with our relationship. Pinkie was right; I shouldn't try to rush romance. Because all it's been doing is affecting you. And now it's gotten you thrown out of your own home." Twilight gently leaned on her marefriend's heaving back. "Oh Applejack, baby, I'm so sorry."

After a moment, Applejack started to let up from her weeping and peered out from her hat, her eyes red and tear-stained. Twilight laid a hoof on her orange cheek as she spoke into those saddened green eyes.

"All I've done is push you too far. And yet you still gave to me no matter what. It's time I gave to you. I know I'm the last pony you want to hear this from, but I have to make this up to you somehow. Applejack, please, come live with me."

"Wha- what did you say?" asked Applejack, her voice regaining strength.

Twilight resumed. "I feel so terrible about getting you kicked out of your home; so it's only fair that I give you mine. I promise I won't try to rush things anymore. From now on, I'm putting your feelings ahead of mine. I love you, Applejack, and I don't ever want to drive you away."

As she stared back at her loving unicorn, the misery seemed to suddenly leave Applejack's face. Miraculously, she even cracked a smile and pulled Twilight in for a hug, in which neither of them could get close enough to each other. Applejack placed a kiss square on the unicorn's lips before looking deep into her eyes.

"I love you too, Twilight," she said. "I forgive ya. And I'd be happy to stay with you."

Twilight smiled back with glimmering eyes and admiration of her lover's forgiveness. "Oh, Applejack, I-"

"Hey Twilight," called Spike as he entered the room from upstairs. "Can I have a glass of..." He paused at the sight of Twilight and Applejack's embrace on the couch. As the two ponies stared back at him in an awkward silence, Spike went back upstairs to bed. "Uh...never mind."

With a shut of the bedroom door, Twilight and Applejack continued to hold each other lovingly on the couch. Applejack nuzzled the warm soft neck of her new housemate.

"I guess I won't have to hide from him anymore."