The Back Room

Chapters

Secret But Fun!
Where Does She Get All Those Wonderful Toys?
Unchained Melody
Tastes Just Like Candy!
Pinkaminty Swirl
Three For One Deal
Braemac Mountin'
Spike-ing The Cider: Part One
Spike-ing The Cider: Part Two
Twilight Sparkle: Ace Investigator
Peppermint Rainbow Apples
Scootaloo Knows Games To Play
Pole Dancing
The Dragon In The Room
A Pony's Regret
Toasted Apples (Season 2 Premier)
Turnabout Ponies!
The Break Up
Scootaloo Soup For The Soul
Open For Business
Raiders of the Back Room
More Bits More Problems (Season One Finale)
Season 2 Announcement
Life Is A Box Of Chocolates

Secret But Fun!

“Bonbon, I'm home!” Lyra called, walking into the modest sized cottage and shutting the door gently behind her. She looked at the off-white pony with the pink and blue mane and tail, laying on the couch lost in a good book.

“Oh! How was your day, dear?” Bonbon asked happily, closing her book as she glanced over her shoulder. She saw the small bag hanging from Lyra's mouth, and read it. “Carousel Boutique? What did you buy there?”

“Something we can try later.” Lyra smiled as she sat it down.

“Is it a type of candy?” Bonbon asked, displaying that tiny obsession/hobby that her cutie mark represented.

“No.” Lyra replied.

“Wine?”

“Too expensive.” Lyra waved a hoof as she sat on the couch in that sitting position that so annoyed Bonbon.

“What is it then?” Bonbon forced herself into the same position and draped a hoof across Lyra's chest, nuzzling her nose into the crook of the unicorn's neck as she murred in pleasure.

“A game.” Lyra's smile suddenly had a mischievous undertone to it.

“A game?” Bonbon repeated, jerking back slightly from her actions. Her eyes widened in realization. “Oh! You want to do that now?” she blushed.

“No, later tonight, when we're in the mood.” Lyra replied, somewhat nervous that this wasn't going to work.

Bonbon nodded as she headed off to the kitchen. Lyra noticed she seemed a bit more in a hurry than usual, obviously curious about tonight's festivities. She just hoped the earth pony liked it.

“Want me to help with that?” Lyra called into the kitchen.

“No, no! You save your energy for tonight! I'm going to make us a special dinner as my gift to you.” Bonbon replied before her head disappeared behind the door once more.

Lyra slumped back onto the couch and sighed. The anticipation was killing her, not to mention the stage fright and everything else. She just hoped she would be in the mood when the time came. Her eyes fell on the bag, and a smile crept across her lips. Her eyes then glanced over to the book Bonbon was reading. She picked it up and hoofed through it. Another one of those trashy novels with the big, burly stallion on the cover. The unicorn glanced up as a thought crossed her mind. Did Bonbon really prefer males? Shaking her head at such a silly notion, she tossed the well worn book aside and waited for dinner.

Soon the smell of dinner was upon her, and she got up and trotted over to the table to see a delicious spread of steamed vegetables, corn on the cob, salads, and even a bottle of wine.

“All of this for me?” Lyra asked, blushing slightly.

“Of course, dear.” Bonbon replied, nodding happily. “Anything for you! I even have desert, courtesy of Sweet Apple Acres.”

“You know me too well.” Lyra smirked, glancing up from the table.

So the two began to enjoy their dinner, and soon, Lyra was levitating the empty wine bottle with her magic, shaking it for any last drop of the nectar that soothed her nerves. The closer the moment got, the more she began to doubt herself. Bonbon would never reject her, but she can be disappointed.

“You drank almost that whole bottle!” Bonbon observed. “It something the matter?”

“What?” Lyra jerked her head towards the voice, which was a bad idea. The room spun and she broke concentration, her magic shutting off and sending the empty bottle crashing to the floor. “No...I'm fine.”

“I've never seen you so out of it before. Maybe we should just rest tonight.” the earth pony frowned. She cared more about her friend's health than any old 'game'.

“No, no...it's fine. Just, a bit of stage fright is all.”

“Stage fright?” Bonbon asked, her brow raising in confusion. Her eyes widened suddenly at what that phrase meant. “Dear, if you're worried about....well....'under-performing'.....it's perfectly alright.”

“NO!” Lyra shook her head violently, much to her own chargin. “It's not that. Just, I want you to be satisfied. I don't know if this will work...” the alcohol finally made the truth come out, which relieved a lot of tension in the room.

“Oh...well. I'm willing to try anything once.” Bonbon shrugged.

Lyra glanced over at her lover, hoping that didn't mean she would fake it for her sake. “Alright, let's go then.”

The two walked into the bedroom, and Bonbon lie upon the bed and sighed. “That was a good dinner, wasn't it?”

Lyra nodded. “You outdid yourself as always. Now it's my turn to repay you.”

“So what is it that you got? It seems awful small for a game.” the earth pony asked as she rolled over to peer over the edge of the bed. Lyra ignored the question as her head rustled inside the bag, then emerged wearing what appeared to be some sort of silk covering on her horn, a small piece of padding at the tip.

“What in Equestria is that for?” Bonbon asked, trying not to laugh.

“Well, unicorn horns are sharp, so this is to protect you from the point.” Lyra explained.

“Can you feel it?”

“No, but I feel stupid.” Lyra glanced up at her horn, which did look kind of ridiculous.

“You've never poked me with your horn before....at least....not by accident.” Bonbon chuckled.

“I'm doing a different kind of poking tonight....” the unicorn replied. I hope...

Lyra climbed up onto the bed and settled down next to Bonbon, back in that subconscious sitting position of hers.

“Must you always sit like that, dear? It's bad for your back.”

“Somepony doesn't want to play tonight.” Lyra smirked, her eyes narrowing.

“Well then, by all means! Sit how you want.” Bonbon gave a slight bow in defeat, sending them both into a laughing fit. Once they finally calmed down, they locked eyes. Lyra was lost in those aqua blue eyes of hers, and found her mind wondering if all her other female fans would be jealous they weren't about to spend this time with their idol. Bonbon was more than just a fan though, she was a good friend and lover as well.

Bonbon leaned forward and they locked lips, their tongues sloppily exploring each others mouths as hooves stroked manes, Bonbon's swishing tail almost knocking off the lamp nearby as she almost always does. The taste of the wine made the experience all the more enjoyable, and Bonbon felt the effects of the residual alcohol on her sensitive system.

Lyra broke the kiss, gasping for breath. “You ready for the game?”

Bonbon glanced at the covering on Lyra's horn, and tried not to snicker again. She nodded, unable to respond without a laugh. The poor girl was trying, and she didn't want to break her heart, especially in her current condition.

Lyra positioned herself so her face was now hovering between Bonbon's flanks. The earth pony could feel the hot breath on her, and sighed slightly. It had been a while since Lyra had done this, as she didn't really care for the taste, no offense to Bonbon of course. After a few moments of waiting, mainly to keep the room from spinning, Bonbon opened her eyes and glanced down to see what was going on.

“You don't have to if you don't want to, dear. It's okay.”

“No it's not that.” Lyra sighed, her breath sending a chill through Bonbon's spine. The unicorn nodded to herself, finding new resolve as she slowly inched her head lower.

“What are you.....OH!” Bonbon was cut off by the sudden sensation of a horn entering her. This was certainly a new experience, and now she knew why Lyra needed the 'protection'. The faint energy of magic coursing through her sent electricity up her spine, causing her tail to twitch uncontrollably.

Lyra smiled at the fact that Bonbon was enjoying this, and picked up the pace. She had to remember to thank that unicorn at the boutique for this wonderful idea. Rough, but not too rough, and certainly pleasurable to both parties, if her soaked mane was any indication. She never would've thought using her horn in this way for fear of hurting her, but now this was going to be a common thing. Now that she knew Bonbon enjoyed it, she forgone all her nervousness and began to increase the pace.

Bonbon couldn't hold out any longer, the energy sending more powerful jolts with each thrust, her own need acting as a conductor of sorts, sending energy directly to her brain. Lyra could feel her shaking and hear the moans. Her hooves futilely grasped at the air, Lyra's head too low to grab and push deeper. She eventually gave up and resorted to rubbing her nipples, her body locking up as the magic made her feel numb yet extremely sensitive at the same time.

Lyra heard her neck crack as forelocks suddenly snapped closed behind her head and she was hoisted up with the spasaming pony, having to close her eyes at the sudden downpour upon her forehead. Bonbon felt kind of guilty about enjoying this, as she didn't have a horn to return the favor. Perhaps she should pay a visit to this 'boutique' and surprise her? After all, this was better than wine and candy.

After the pleasure had passed, Bonbon collapsed on the bed, her eyes half closed and her tongue hanging out of her mouth. Lyra slid up beside her, her mane soaked as she had been in a grueling iron pony event. Both reeked of the smell of wine that came with their sweat, which sent them over even further.

“Need a towel....” Bonbon managed to pant.

“No, I'll take a shower. Did you enjoy it?”

“Of course. Now I'm going to have to repay you!”

“Oh, don't be silly. Your love is enough for me. I'm glad I could make you feel good.” She draped a hoof across the earth pony's chest as she rolled to the side and cuddled up to her. “Besides, all that wine has given me a headache. If it's alright with you, you can repay me tomorrow night.”

Bonbon nodded, herself feeling a bit dizzy from the combined stupor and the immense pleasure that still lingered throughout her nerves.

After a moment of silence in the afterglow, reality started to come back to play.

“So, how much did that cost...?”

Where Does She Get All Those Wonderful Toys?

“Ah don't know. This feels wrong.” Apple Bloom said with a hint of nervousness in her voice. She glanced at the other two fillies with her, all now standing before the black curtain that swayed in a taunting manner, as if they'll never know what's inside.

“You're kidding, right? That's the best kind of feeling!” Scootaloo did a small flip in the air, her tiny wings straining to hold the weight. “Besides, the grown ups telling us not to go back there makes it all the more exciting!”

Sweetie Belle only nodded in approval, curious what her sister was hiding from her. But once again, as she had gotten hold of the curtain cord, magic intervened.

“Am I going to have to ban you from the shop?” Rarity asked, sounding a bit angrier than last time.

“No, Miss Rarity.” Apple Bloom glanced at the floor. Scootaloo could only stifle a chuckle.

“If I must, I'll have you sleep in the tree house with your friends! I don't want any of you going back there! Understand?”

The three nodded, defeat on their faces.

“Good.” Rarity sighed, running a hoof through her frazzled mane. “Now then, off you go!” she shooed them out the door once more. What was going on here? Sweetie Belle thought.

“I don't think Rarity's being very generous.” Scootaloo remarked, sitting on her rump and crossing her hooves.

Apple Bloom glanced around in thought, before her eyes widened. “Maybe we don't have to go back there!”

“Huh?” the other two asked in unison.

“We just wait until somepony goes in, and gets something from back there. Then we'll follow them and see what it is!”

“That's a great idea!” Sweetie Belle exclaimed, leaping up into the air.

“Aw, I coulda thought of that.” Scootaloo waved a hoof.

“But who do we follow first....” Apple Bloom thought to herself, tapping a hoof on her chin. She looked up to see Twilight Sparkle cantering up to the shop.

“Quick! Hide!” Apple Bloom whispered, and the three dove in the bushes. They watched as Twilight approached the door and knocked. Rarity opened up.

“Darling, what brings you here?”

“Well, I've been reading some books about, your items and.....well...” she glanced away, her blush returning with a vengeance now as she nervously tapped her hooves on the ground.

Rarity nodded. “An experiment, no doubt.”

“YEAH!” Twilight replied with enthusiasm, snapping her gaze back to Rarity. “Uh, I mean....yeah...” she tried to remain calm.

The white unicorn smiled knowingly, but didn't say anything. “Right this way, dear. I got just the thing.”

Twilight swallowed her butterflies as she followed Rarity into the shop. Even though she had been in here a million times before, for some reason the weight of the situation made it seem like this was her first time, and she was about to make a terrible impression. She snapped from her thoughts when she saw Rarity stop before a deep black curtain, and with a small, graceful yank on the rope with her teeth, it drew back to reveal what three little fillies sought so long to observe.

It was a modest sized room, no bigger than a closet, and had several shelves filled with various objects and toys, illuminated by a few candles in elaborate holders. Twilight followed Rarity into the small space, and looked around at some of the items, wondering how a mind as well read as hers could overlook such perverse uses for mundane tools.

“Is that a....” she asked, pointing a hoof to a selection of colorful toys, all resembling parts of male anatomy, though not all were pony based.

“Yes dear. I've got pony, dragon, griffon, Diamond Dog, and others. You'd be surprised the sensations they can cause!”

“You've tried them?” Twilight recoiled in disgust, though not really meaning to.

“Heavens no, darling! Just from what I've read.” Rarity stuck her nose in the air at such an accusation.

“Well, which one should I....experiment on.” Twilight bit her lip as she tried to keep her lie in check, but looking at Rarity's smile met that she knew anyway, so she just sighed and gave up. “Should I try, I mean.”

Rarity tapped her chin in thought, glancing around the shelf. “Ah! Here we go!” she used her magic to levitate a small, pony shaped toy down to Twilight. “I know you're probably saving yourself for somepony special, so this one will ensure pleasure without taking away what you prize most.”

Twilight knew what she meant, but that didn't make it feel any better. Why do I feel so nervous? This is a natural process! she told herself. Maybe it was the unspoken feeling that Celestia would find out and be disappointed. Perhaps more, it was the fact that someone like her felt she would never find a colt to settle down with.

That was it! This whole process made her depressed. She felt pathetic at having to result to simulation because nopony would take the time to get to know her. Such was the life of an asocial bookworm, she supposed.

“Now will that be cash or credit, dear?” Rarity snapped Twilight from her depressing thoughts, and only got a weak smile in reply. She knew what was going through Twilight's head and it was perfectly natural for a poor girl like her. Maybe she could do something to make her feel better, or at least, show her other possibilities.

“We'll follow Twilight!” Apple Bloom finally spoke when the coast was clear.

“I don't know. It doesn't seem right to spy on our friends like this.” It was Sweetie Belle's turn to have reservations.

“You two worry too much! We'll just....” Scootaloo was cut off when she was rudely shoved back into the bush. The door to the boutique opened and Twilight stepped out, glancing around nervously as the large bag in her mouth swayed back and forth. Figuring that she didn't have to explain anything, she headed back home.

“Cutie Mark Crusaders! Private Detectives!”

Unchained Melody

“Can you see anything?” Apple Bloom asked, struggling to keep the little makeshift Cutie Mark Crusaders Totem Pole in check. She was always at the bottom, being the strongest due to her apple-bucking skills.

“OW! Get your hoof out of my eye!” Scootaloo protested to the unicorn above her. Sweetie Belle struggled to try and reach the window sill to hold stable, but it was obviously too high, being on the second floor.

“I can't reach! We need to get some stuff to stack up to stand on!” the unicorn called down, her weight shifting even more.

“HEY! QUIT IT!” Scootaloo whined, getting a hoof to the back of the head, a white blur consuming everything for a brief moment in her vision.

“Quit squirming, you dodo!” Sweetie Bell frowned, looking down at the Pegasus below her. Whatever reservations she had about spying on her friends earlier had quickly disappeared when she was overtaken by the butterflies in her stomach about seeing something potentially forbidden.

“I told you not to call me things I don't know what they mean! You're pulling my wing!” Scootaloo shouted back, ready to bite the leg hanging in front of her face.

“OH NO! We're gonna....” Apple Bloom tried to exclaim, feeling all their weight shift forward.

Twilight Sparkle lie on her bed and sighed. She glanced at the bag on the floor, waiting for the contents to be put to use, and bit her lip. Why did this feel so wrong? she thought. Perhaps it was her upbringing. Maybe it was because she felt that she probably WOULDN'T find a stallion to settle down with, being the dork she was and all. She wanted to save herself for somepony special. Rarity assured her that this wouldn't ruin that, which talked her into buying the object. But it still gave a strange twinge of butterflies in her stomach.

The loud crash outside snapped her from her thoughts. She glanced at the window, wanting to see what was going on, but decided against it. Any excuse to get out of her dedicated task would be ignored in favor of overcoming her nervousness. Using her magic, she levitated the item from the shopping bag and slowly turned it in the air. It was made of rubber, and resembled a stallion's part almost perfectly, except for the unrealistic coloration of course. Twilight sighed as her over analysis was part of what she felt drove guys away from her. Why can't I just enjoy things as they are? Perhaps, this would be the first step to that moment.

Of course she knew all about the act of mating. The parts, positions, optimum times for insemination. It was one of her quirks, diving into her books about anything and everything and absorbing it like a sponge. Now, here was the moment of truth, putting all the knowledge to use. Rarity was right in calling it another 'experiment'. Her magic brought the item closer, and Twilight admired the little details in the craft before chiding herself for over analyzing again. Slowly, she stuck out her tongue and tasted the tip. It didn't really have a flavor at all, but it felt...right to her somehow.

“I got some boxes!” Scootaloo called out.

“Ah found some apple crates!” Apple Bloom added her stuff to the pile.

“I got some pillows!” Sweetie Belle added, tossing the pillows into the collection.

“Pillows?!” the others asked in unison.

“If we fall again.”

“OH!”

“What if she sees us?” Apple Bloom asked, growing worried.

“Relax! She'll be to busy to see us.” Scootaloo explained.

“What about Spike?” the earth pony asked. “What if he sees us?”

“We're wasting time, you guys! Come on!” Sweetie Belle called, already scaling the pile.

Twilight's eyes widened at the strange feeling in her most private of areas. She knew to get the toy good and wet before attempting anything so as to avoid friction. Only Twilight could make the act of lovemaking boring by making it all sound....textbook. She could feel the faint twitching below, signaling that her body wanted this more than her mind could understand. For once in her life, she had lost control of her own senses. Magic was one thing, but that experience was never pleasurable, especially in overload. But this feeling was different, as if there was a heat spreading through her body, all emanating from the source between her flanks. Her forelock brushed against a wet spot on the sheets and she blushed slightly.

The toy slid in and out of her muzzle with ease now, drool hanging from the corners of her mouth as the silence was broken by the occasional sounds of slurping and gagging. The whole thing felt awkward and somewhat pathetic on her part, but at the same time, these feelings now nullified all of that. She felt wanted and loved, even if was just from herself, and this renewed her passion to find a stallion and experience it the right way. She wasn't old enough to be in heat yet, but she knew it would come sooner than she thought.

Subconsciously, her horn began to faintly glow, producing eerily appropriate mood lighting while at the same time, moving the needle on the old phonograph downstairs, causing the library to be filled with soothing music. She noticed all of this, but didn't really mind. Unicorn magic was controlled by emotions after all. Feeling that the toy was wet enough, she rolled onto her back and sighed at the sudden breeze she felt against the furnace between her flanks. If she got this worked up over a toy, she could only imagine how she would react to the real thing. But that was for another time. Any sense of doubt or embarrassment was gone in favor of a body that was now riled up and craving fulfillment, no matter the means. She used her magic to levitate the toy from her hooves, and slowly, teasingly, lowered it between her flanks. Closing her eyes, she guided the toy to its destination, and gasped at the sudden jolt that shot up her spine when it made contact with the sensitive flesh. After trying and failing to keep herself flat on the bed, as her back instinctively arched up every time a bit more slid in, Twilight finally managed to get it all the way inside.

The way the rubber device spread herself around it, the odd feeling of being filled. She felt herself growing wetter than before, spilling out onto the sheets, and her mind began the task of picking everything apart once more, trying to condense these primal urges into words and mental charts she could process. She closed her eyes, ignoring those intruding thoughts, and focused only on using her magic to thrust the device in and out. It was just short enough to avoid taking her....'innocence', as Rarity put it. Twilight knew what she meant, but didn't really care. At least she would lose it to something. She began a slow rhythm, enjoying these strange feelings that coursed through her body with each thrust. She felt light headed, and found herself imagining a studly stallion taking her hard and rough in a scene projected onto the backs of her eyelids. She smiled at how much it resembled those trashy novels Rarity let her borrow out of curiosity, which taught her that not all books are meant to be read by innocent minds. Rarity could only laugh at the perceived trauma, but in reality, it only made Twilight feel more lonely.

Her breathing became short as she sped up the pace, her mind racing with her fantasies and magic, tongue lolling out of her mouth in a humorous display of raw passion. If she would've opened her eyes, she would've seen that her immense magical ability had manifested a ghostly stallion over the toy, in effect, making her dream come true. She had no idea she was capable of such a feat, but apparently in the heat of the moment, anything is possible. She was too lost in pleasure to care about this potentially horrifying sight, however, as she began to moan in deep, low rumbles. The bookworm Twilight was lost to the instinctive Twilight, ravaged by this ghostly stallion of her imagination and magic. These feelings brought out a side nopony knew she had.

“See anything?” Apple Bloom asked, her shoulders buckling at the weight of her friends as her back hooves struggled to find footing on the pile of debris. Her ears twitched at the faint music she could hear from inside. "I hear music!"

“It looks like somepony is in there with her! And stabbing her!” Sweetie Bell exclaimed, her eyes wide in terror.

“Stabbing?!” Scootaloo asked, sounding disturbingly excited. “Can I see?”

“You're a sick pony!” Apple Bloom frowned, thinking of her own encounter with a dead body in the Everfree Forest.

“It looks like its Big....” Before Sweetie Belle could see anything more, the crates under Apple Bloom's hooves slipped, and the three landed hard on the pillows.

Twilight's eyes shot open at the noise, the ghostly stallion vanishing as soon as her concentration was broken. She frowned, figuring she wouldn't get back into the mood now, and put the toy back in the bag and under her bed. Sighing, she pulled herself up and opened the window to see three fillies among a pile of garbage and pillows.

“WHAT do you three think you're doing?” the unicorn asked, anger in her voice. Did they see anything? She didn't know. But she hid her worry with a stone scowl.

“We were jus' tryin' to build a fort.” Apple Bloom quickly lied.

“You've got a clubhouse.” Twilight grew bitter, narrowing her eyes while at the same time holding her breath.

“But we wanted to be close to the library, in case we needed blueprints!” Sweetie Belle spoke up.

Twilight lingered her stare at the three, a long akward silence making them glance around uncomfortably. “Well, why didn't you say so!” she finally spoke up.

The three fillies sighed in relief.

Tastes Just Like Candy!

Rarity backed out of her new room, smiling at the business she had been getting lately because of it. She had way more customers than before, and she was also learning some secrets about the locals that put her romance novels to shame. But she also felt guilt about the whole sorrid affair really. Not that she wasn't trustworthy with such knowledge, but that something could happen to a poor innocent pony. She shook those negative thoughts out of her head and chuckled to herself. Nothing like that would ever happen, not on Celestia's watch anyway. She turned around and recoiled in fright at the blob of pink before her. Realizing it was Pinkie Pie, she settled down and sighed. “What brings you here today, darling?”

“Oh, I was just looking for some more of your taffy!” Pinkie explained, glancing around the shop in her continued quest.

“Taffy?” Rarity raised a brow. Was that some kind of slang? She didn't know.

“Yeah! I found some of these little square packages that looked like those napkin thingys, and they had your name on them! I never had fruit flavored taffy before, but it was kind of hard to chew.”

Rarity's eyes darted around as she processed what she just heard. Her face then screwed up in disgust when she realized what was going on.

“Pinkie....that wasn't taffy...”

“Then what was it?” the earth pony asked, just as innocent as ever.

Face firmly in hoof, the unicorn resisted the urge to strangle the pink pony before her, and only let out a frustrated grunt. “You ARE aware of the new items I'm selling now, right?”

Pinkie nodded, her face now a serious expression as she listened intently.

“And I hope that you know what they are for?” Rarity narrowed her eyes in an accusing manner.

Pinkie nodded again. “I'm not a filly anymore, ya know.”

“Then how could you think those were.....taffy?”

“They weren't?” the party pony titled her head to the side like a confused puppy. “Darn! My bestest best friend Minty is coming over and I was hoping to give her some of that taffy!”

Rarity thought for a moment, then smiled. “Pinkie, darling. Is your friend Minty as open minded as you?”

“I guess.” Pinkie sat on the floor and placed a forehoof to her chin in thought. “Why?”

“Follow me, dear.” the unicorn led the party pony into the room containing her new stock.

Pinkie looked around in wide eyed awe at the strange sights before her. She wasn't so clueless as to not know what sex was, but she didn't know that all of this was involved as well. It was like a party, only for grownups, with colorful toys and fun pary games. It was the strangest analogy one could come up with, and that is why only Pinkie Pie could.

“What are these?” the pink pony asked, pointing to a strange leather device that looked like it tied onto somepony's head.

“Those are blinders, dear. Very kinky. Perhaps to kinky for you and Minty. Let's see,” Rarity placed a hoof to her chin as she glanced around the stock. “Ah! Here we go!” she pulled down a box that had a picture of a pony on it with something in his mouth.

“What's that?” Pinkie asked, her face a look of confusion and disgust.

“This is a gag, dear. It keeps ponies quiet.” Rarity explained, hoping she wasn't being to blunt about the party pony's penchant for pestering and persisting.

“I don't know, that sounds kind of mean.” Pinkie poked at the box with a hoof like it was going to explode.

“Nonsense!” Rarity waved a hoof. “If Minty trusts you, then there's no problem. Besides, you don't have to use it.” she used her magic to place it into a bag. “That'll be 50 bits please.”

Pinkie's eyes widened at the price. “Really? Well, okay. You take checks?”

“Checks?”

“Well I don't have any pockets to carry bits, so do you take a check?”

“If you don't have pockets for bits, how are you carrying a check?” Rarity caught herself before this conversation went any further. Only Pinkie Pie could be so strange. She glanced at the bag now hanging from Pinkie's mouth, and wondered if giving something like that to somepony like her, to be used on an unsuspecting pony was a good idea. “Never mind, darling. I'll bill you later.” She managed an uneasy smile.

“Okie Dokie Lokie!” Pinkie sang, and hopped out the door with her new potential for terrible things to happen. Rarity could only sigh. Pinkie was such a free spirit. She was, what the proper term was, 'Equicurious', and felt equal attraction to both genders. Ponyville severely lacked in male populous, which Twilight had said something about needing plenty of mares to produce offspring as opposed to having more stallions than mares and leading to disputes when that time of the month came. It was all very scientific and the balance of nature, but Rarity didn't hear a word. She just thought it was an excuse for the males to become more amorous.

Meanwhile, after spending most of their day cleaning up their mess by Twilight's home, the Cutie Mark Crusaders were at a loss. Who could they follow to spy on next?

“Ah still don't feel right about this.” Apple Bloom continued to object. “Ah got in big trouble that one time Big Mac saw ah found his magazines.”

“What were they about?” Scootaloo asked, her interest piqued.

Apple Bloom shrugged. “Ah don't know. All it had was pictures of ponies in them. Big Mac said it was because they were for adults, but nopony here wears clothes anyway!”

“Look! There's Pinkie Pie!” Sweetie Belle exclaimed, pointing to the pink ball of fluff that was happily skipping down the road with a bag in her teeth. “Let's follow her!”

“How are we gonna get up there to see in her window?” Scootaloo frowned, rubbing her rear from the fall they took earlier.

Sweetie Belle shook her head. “We'll think of something! Come on!”

Pinkaminty Swirl

There! Everything is ready! Pinkie Pie thought to herself, standing in the empty Sugarcube Corner. Mr. and Mrs. Cake had left her in charge once again, as she had proven herself more than capable of running the place, and she was good at baking when she didn't have sleep deprived ponies or rambunctious fillies helping her. The place was quiet for now, because she wanted to ensure that the party she was throwing for Minty remained a surprise. Minty was a fillyhood friend of Pinkie's and to hear that she was coming to Ponyville for a visit all the way from Fillydelphia. After Pinkie was sent off to Granny Pie's for adoption after her family couldn't support her anymore due to the Parasprites leaving them nothing but rocks to harvest, she met Minty in town and they became fast friends. The most peculiar thing about her, was her affection for socks.

Pinkie Pie darted around, making last minuet checks on everything and ensuring all was right for the little 'party game' she had planed for her best friend. As she took the last batch of cookies out of the oven, a knock on the door sent her dashing to open it. Standing before her, a lot bigger than she remembered, was Minty. Her peppermint green coat seemed to glow in the setting sunlight, her bright pink mane and tail bounced with the rest of her as she bounded in excitement. “Pinkie Pie! It's been forever!” she exclaimed.

“Yes it has.” Pinkie sighed. “I made all sorts of new friends here too! We should go meet them sometime!”

“Why not now?”

Pinkie shook her head. “No, I got plans for us tonight.”

“What kind of plans?” Minty asked, confused.

“You'll see.” Pinkie gave a knowing wink and led her friend into the kitchen. “Until then, enjoy the party!”

“Wow, Pinkie Pie! This is your best one yet!” Minty looked around in amazement at the balloons and streamers, as well as the big welcome banner with her name on it in bright, colorful letters. The pile of cookies on the table smelled delicious, and Minty couldn't wait to dig in. Pinkie walked up behind her and eyed the filly.

“New socks?” Pinkie asked, nodding towards Minty's rear hooves.

“Yep! Pink just like you! Like 'em?” Minty raised her left rear hoof to show off the sock, which was somewhat dirty on the bottom from the ground outside.

“You should wash those.” Pinkie nodded at her sage advice. Minty hesitated at first, as removing her socks would be like removing a unicorn's horn. She nodded, then nervously slid them off her hooves, handing them over to the pink pony.

“What's wrong?” Pinkie asked, tilting her head.

“I just, feel naked without my socks....” Minty mumbled, rubbing her forelegs together nervously.

“Silly filly, we're naked anyway!” Pinkie bounded out of the kitchen to depost the socks into the laundry hamper, Gummy sitting on a shelf staring at her absentmindedly. She smiled at the little gator, then gently clasped her teeth on the patch of thick scales on the back of his neck, lifting him off his perch and carrying him to show Minty.

When Pinkie emerged in the kitchen, Minty was halfway through the plate of cookies and showed no sign of stopping. “You really like those, huh?”

Minty nodded, a bit embarrassed at making such a pig of herself.

“This is Gummy!” Pinkie broke the silence, pointing her hoof to the gator now resting on the cool tile floor. Minty trotted up to get a closer look.

“Aww! He's so cute” Minty gushed as she looked over the tiny reptile. His eyes staring off at nothing while blinking out of synch. “Why doesn't he have any teeth?”

Pinkie shrugged. “I don't know, I just found him that way. I figured he wouldn't survive on his own, but instead of taking him to Fluttershy's, I decided to keep him since he reminded me of my own problems.”

“That's so sad.” Minty pouted. “I'm sure Pinkie is taking good care of you.” she rubbed a hoof gently on Gummy's head.

Pinkie's eyes glanced over to the bag she got from Rarity's, trying to resist the urge to spring the surprise now.

“So what do we do now?” Minty asked, finally giving Gummy some relief.

Pinkie thought for a moment. “How about we watch a movie?” she asked. Yeah! That'll kill plenty of time!

Minty smiled. “Okay, that sounds good.” She followed the pink party pony into the lobby and up the stairs to her room.

“You sure this is safe?” Apple Bloom asked, glancing at the wooden platform she was sitting on, then turning to look at the opposite end elevated in the air, waiting for an occupant.

“Yeah! I've seen Rainbow Dash use this trick for some of her flying moves! It'll get you high enough to see what's going on.” Scootaloo called down from the plank she was standing on. “Ready?”

“Ah guess so....” Apple Bloom began having second thoughts.

Scootaloo took a running leap and dropped like a stone, landing hard on the opposite end of the catapult, sending Apple Bloom careening up into the air. She could feel her lips pulling back in the wind as she continued her accession, then when gravity finally got a hold back on her, she plummeted and landed hard on the roof of Sugar Cube corner. Contrary to popular legend, the building was NOT made out of real gingerbread and candy, but hard wood and stone.

“Ow....”

“You okay?” Sweetie Belle called up.

“Ah guess so...” Apple Bloom wiggled all four legs to make sure they wern't broken, then rubbed her head to check for any bleeding. She cracked a few bones as she stood, and shook the spinning from her vision. Stumbling over to the skylight she peered down to see Pinkie Pie and Minty absorbed in whatever movie they were watching, both sitting on the impossibly plush bed.

“All they're doin' is watchin' a movie!” Apple Bloom called down, leaning over the edge of the room.

“Well that's no fun! Keep lookin!” Scootaloo commanded.

“Why don't you come up here?” Apple Bloom snapped.

“Fine! I will!” Scootaloo sat on the end of the catapult and pointed at Sweetie Belle then to the platform.

“I'm not going up there!” the unicorn filly recoiled.

“Yes you are!” Scootaloo snapped. “Dodo!”

“You don't even know what that means!” Sweetie Belle protested, trotting to the platform. She scrabbled up the ladder and took a running leap, if only to shut the Pegasus up.

She landed hard on the other end, but her weight wasn't enough, so Scootaloo didn't go as high up, ramming her head into a tree branch and falling to the ground like a rotten apple.

“You did that on purpose!” the Pegasus snapped, rubbing the lump on her head.

Apple Bloom could only snicker at the scene.

“Did you hear something?” Minty shot up, unaware Pinkie had her hoof draped around her neck.

“No.” Pinkie shrugged. “This movie is boring anyway. Why don't we try that game now?” she asked, locking eyes with the green pony.

“Okay.” Minty agreed, smiling.

“It's downstairs, come on!” Pinkie led her back down to the lobby. Neither of them seen Apple Bloom banging her head against the glass as now her effort was for nothing. One more hit released the latch, and she fell into the soft carpet of Pinkie's room. She was in! Now she had to hide.

Pinkie had led Minty to the kitchen and grabbed the bag, then winked and went to the fridge, retrieving a long carrot.

“What's that for?” Minty asked, pointing at the vegetable.

“You ate all those cookies, you need something healthy!” Pinkie explained. She placed it in the bag, then cantered back upstairs.

Apple Bloom had taken shelter under the bed, and saw eight hooves approach then disappear, the bed sagging onto her head slightly.

Pinkie Pie produced the box from the bag and Minty looked at the image on it. It was strange to be sure.

“What's this?” she asked.

“A ball gag! My friend Rarity said it would be tons of fun!” Pinkie explained, ripping the package open and producing the brightly colored red ball held by a leather strap. She picked up the box lid and squinted at it. “Now, I'll have to put it on you.”

“I don't know about this...” Minty shrank slightly, rubbing her hooves together. “It sounds weird.”

Pinkie slid up next to her friend and ran a hoof along her cheek. “Minty, you can trust me. I won't do anything to hurt you. Okay?”

Minty nodded and bowed her head to allow Pinkie to fasten the strap. With the gag in her mouth, the pepermint pony stared with wide eyed confusion as Pinkie produced the carrot.

“I've done this before! It feels really good.” the party pony explained as she began licking the carrot to get it nice and wet. Minty could only watch in a daze and partial fear. When she was done, Pinkie pulled the carrot from her mouth with a soggy 'pop'. She looked into Minty's wide eyes, and smiled a comforting smile. “You can trust me.” she whispered.

Minty nodded weakly, and allowed her hind legs to be spread apart. Pinkie brought the carrot down to between her flanks and began to slide it in. Her body squirmed in pain as something sharp tore through her body. Tears formed in her eyes, but her cries were muffled by the gag. Pinkie was too focused on her work, tongue sticking out in a comical manner, to notice Minty's pain.

Apple Bloom could hear the bed squeaking above her, as well as muffled whimpers. Was Minty crying? That didn't sound like fun at all. She shook her head when she realized Pinkie would never do such a thing, and sighed, straining to try and hear more.

Pinkie continued her rhythm, taking the muffled cries as signals she was doing it right. After a few more thrusts, Pinkie felt left out, and straddled Minty, her gaze still focused on the carrot as she guided the other end into her own need. Her head wrenched back in pure pleasure as instinct took over, completely drowning out any cries of terror from the subdued pony.

Minty tried to kick and fail to the best of her ability, but found her body and mind at a conflict. Her brain said no, but her body wanted more. Between whimpers and gagged sobs came the occasional moan of pleasure as the pain subsided. The sharpness she felt when they started was all but gone, but this whole ordeal was a foreign concept to her, and the sudden straddling and violation made Minty rethink her best friend's intentions. Pinkie, however, was lost in bliss. It felt even better with another mare on the other side. The heat, the friction, it sent unknown waves of pleasure though her very being, shaking her to her bones with lust.

Apple Bloom was confused, and somewhat horrified at what she was hearing. Pinkie WAS hurting that poor pony, and probably knew it too! She wanted to scream, but slapped a hoof over her mouth to keep from getting caught. The bed began to shake violently as Pinkie started to slam herself up and down on the carrot, grunting as the breath was knocked out of her with each thrust. Her body tingled with excitement as her need spilled all over her thighs, and Minty's, making the violated pony whimper even more. Her eyes were filled with tears, but Pinkie's remained screwed shut in pure bliss, oblivious to the psychological torment she was putting her friend through. With a final thrust down, the party pony froze, her body shuddering with pleasure as more of that strange heat flared through her, up her spine and to her spinning head.

She collapsed on top of Minty, panting from the effort and covered in sweat. She felt wetness on Minty's face and thought it was sweat as well.

“Did you enjoy it?” she asked, opening her eyes. She immediately shot upright and shoved herself away when she saw hollow, tear filled eyes staring at her. Pinkie's mind reeled at the prospect of hurting her best friend, and even more that she didn't notice it. How could I be so selfish? She was in pain this whole time, and I didn't even bother to look!. “Minty....” she whispered hoarsely, “I'm...I'm sorry....” She reached forward to remove the gag, but Minty only recoiled in fright as if she was going to be struck. “Minty....please....”

Minty calmed down enough for Pinkie to remove the gag. Before she could apologize any further, Minty shot upright, shoving her way past her, and bolted out of the room crying. Pinkie began crying herself and Apple Bloom saw her take off down the stairs as well. She was unnerved by the sudden weight in the air, and felt that she was somehow responisible for this mess as well, as she should've done something.

Once she was sure the coast was clear, Apple Bloom slid out from under the bed, and crept down the stairs to leave, her mind trying to process what just happened and if she should say anything.

Three For One Deal

“Crying?!” Sweetie Belle exclaimed, falling off of the ball she was draped over once more.

Apple Bloom nodded, her face one of concern. “Ah don't think she meant it, but it was still wrong.”

“Did you get to see any of it?” Scootaloo asked, grabbing another crayon.

“No! I was under the bed! Ah don't think ah wanted ta see it anyways.” Apple Bloom crossed her front legs across her chest.

“We should tell Rarity that her toys make ponies cry!” Sweetie Belle spoke up, climbing back onto thinking spot on top of the ball.

“And risk getting in trouble? No thanks!” Scootaloo shook her head.

“How can you be so insensitive?” Apple Bloom asked, her eyes wide in surprize.

“Every time we do something wrong, we get punished. It's about time the adults get punished too!”

“But Pinkie is our friend!” Sweetie Belle protested, falling off her ball again.

Apple Bloom sighed. “But she did do somethin' wrong. But if we tell anypony, ah'll get in trouble too! Keepin' this secret is making me feel sick.”

“Maybe we should quit spying. We're not meant to know what's back there.” Sweetie Belle sighed, her eyes drooping in defeat.

Apple Bloom nodded in agreement, staring at the scratches on her forelegs from the roof of Sugarcube Corner.

“Well then, that leaves only me I guess.” Scootaloo sighed. “Have fun without me.” the filly stood and left without another word, leaving her two friends confused.

“Rarity...” Pinkie Pie called out, her voice cracking. She glanced around the shop, looking at all the things the unicorn normally sold, and began thinking to herself why she drifted away from such nice things in favor of stuff that hurts ponies.

“Yes, dear?” Rarity emerged from the room and saw the forlorn pony before her. “Oh my! What happened?”

“I.....I.....”

“Yes dear, spit it out!”

“I....think I...hurt my friend...” Pinkie managed to croak out.

“Oh. Did you misuse the toy?”

Pinkie Pie nodded. “I think so...”

“What did you do, exactly?” Rarity found herself anxious to know, which made the voice in the back of her mind scold herself for being so nosy and such a gossip. The other voice tried to justify the question by passing it off as typical sales fashion to ask how the product was misused.

Pinkie struggled to find the confidence to speak, displaying an uncharacteristic silence. Then she turned and sulked out the door without any further words. Rarity could only stare after her friend, her mouth agape as her mind tried to make sense of this situation. She glanced down to see Pinkie had somehow left the offending object on the floor, right at her hooves. She recoiled slightly, wondering if it was sanitary to take returns on such things, then sighed.

“Spike, ah got a problem.” Apple Bloom confessed to the dragon standing dangerously on the edge of a ladder, attempting to place a book twice his size back on its proper shelf. Twilight was out with the others, so he was left to pick up the mess, as always. Not that he minded the job.

“What's wrong?” he finally asked, clambering down from the ladder, obviously winded from the weight of the book.

“Ah think I heard somethin' that ah wasn't supposed to. I shouldn't have been spyin'.” Apple Bloom stared at the floor. Spike could only blink in confusion.

“What are you talking about?”

“Sweetie Belle said Rarity had a new room full of stuff that she won't let her see, so she came and got us to help and we was tryin to spy on ponies to see what was coming from back there and....”

“Whoa, whoa, whoa.” Spike held up his claws in defense. “That's what this is all about? I can tell you what's back there.”

“Really? What? What? What?!”

“Settle down!” Spike warned, waving his hands to signal the pony to sit down and listen. He glanced around to make sure nopony was around, then whispered. “I found something from there under Twilight's bed.”

“REALLY?!” Apple Bloom sat upright, her feelings of guilt gone now. “What was it?”

“Don't know.” Spike shrugged. “It looked like a...well....a boys.....”

“Willy?” Apple Bloom asked, tilting her head.

“Uh...yeah...I guess....” Spike glanced around, blushing suddenly. “I didn't touch it or anything, but I'm pretty sure that's what it was supposed to be.”

“Well ponies don't wear clothes, so we see those all the time!” Apple Bloom replied, standing back up to venture upstairs.

“I suppose...but this is different.” Spike was beginning to regret saying anything, his face blushing a deep crimson now. “Maybe we shouldn't play with it.”

“It would be too big for me anyway.” Apple Bloom smirked, her eyes narrowing at Spike.

The dragon was caught off guard by this. Is she hitting on me?! He started glancing around more franticaly now, as if trying to find an escape. “Wha...wha...are you suggesting?” he stammered, finding himself being backed against the wall by a slowly approaching filly that had a mischievous smile on her face.

“That you go in there and get somethin' for us.” Apple Bloom replied coolly, as if it were the most casual conversation in the world.

“No way...I'm not getting in trouble!” Spike protested, shaking his head violently.

“If'n ya don't, ah'll tell Twilight you was under her bed.” Apple Bloom's smile grew wider.

Spike hung his head, defeated, and sighed. “Alright,” he stomped off towards the entrance of the library, “but you owe me!” he pointed threateningly in her direction.

“Ah'll pay you back, in spades!” Apple Bloom replied, confident that this was going to work out perfectly. She was finally going to learn what was in the back room, be the hero to her friends, AND net Spike for herself all at once. This was becoming a very good day.

Apple Bloom smiled to herself, her head and tail high in the air as she cantered out of the library, her head filled with thoughts of the coming night.

Braemac Mountin'

Please note that the following pairing was done upon request. There are many ponies that like this stuff, and if you are not one of them then I apologize. I'm writing this fic for everypony, not just you. So if you feel offended that is fine, just don't be a homophobic douche about the whole affair.

Thank you.

Rarity couldn't believe of all ponies to walk into her boutique door to buy one of her new items, it had to have been Big Macintosh. She never figured that he was into these kinds of things, but the more her eyes looked over the studly stallion, a draft horse if there ever was one, she began to realize that maybe he was a sire about town after all. Of course his honest nature and kind heart shot that theory down real quick. He wasn't the love 'em and leave 'em type, after all.

“Big Mac, darling! What in Equestria brings you here?” the unicorn asked, a hoof to her chest as she tried to catch her fleeting breath, a natural instinct of her's whenever she saw a stud. She knew such a relationship wouldn't work, given Applejack and all. But that didn't mean she couldn't 'window shop' as she put it more than once when gossiping with Fluttershy at the spa.

“Well, I was hopin' that you maybe had somethin' to help keep out nosy little fillies.” Big Mac pawed at the floor nervously with a hoof. “Apple Bloom's gonna stick her snout in a mess of trouble one of these days,” he shook his head slowly as he lamented that thought.

“Oh, well I do have a lovely selection of decorative keepsake boxes, but those are more for jewlery really,” Rarity explained, glancing over at the golden, gem encrusted boxes displayed in the picture window. She turned her head back to look at the stallion, who was still staring at the floor, blushing madly. “But, that's not why you're really here? Is it?”

“Ah was just curious.” Big Mac raised his head, a goofy smile on his face. “An' maybe ah can get Applejack somethin' as kind of a joke. Ah hear how she's always muttering Rainbow Dash's name in her sleep, but ah ain't never said anything.”

Rarity blinked, her face expressionless as she soaked this in. Not that it wasn't obvious to her, far from it. The way those two fought like an old married couple, constantly at each others throats in whatever they do. But to hear the normally reserved Big Mac say it served to drive the point home. “Well, I'm sure she wouldn't appreciate you airing her, um, 'dirty laundry', as it were.”

Big Mac nodded. “She thought ya'll would've figured it out by now anyways, she was just to proud to say anything to find out. Of course, ah think that it's jus' strictly platonic and nutthin' else. She's to honest to lie about feelings like that.”

The unicorn could only nod, her mind focused on how she was going to cope with knowing this, and keeping it bottled up inside and not tell anypony else. She'll probably have a bloody lip at the spa tomorrow, biting it just to keep from telling Fluttershy anything. Her mane slowly began to fray at the edges with this thought. “Well,” she cleared her throat, “Why not step this way with me.”

Little did they know, they were being watched by a certain orange Pegasus filly, with a wicked smile on her face.

Back at the library, Twilight Sparkle was busy in her books as always. She had noticed that the bag under her bed was slightly moved, but thought nothing of it. Spike wouldn't be the kind to invade privacy, especially in his 'big sister's' room. There was even more incentive not to because this big sister had a canon loaded with magic on her forehead. A faint knock at the door snapped her from her stupor, realizing that her eyes had been staring at the book for so long the print was a blur. She blinked a few time, shaking the cobwebs out of her head, and trotted over to the door. Standing before her, was a mint green earth pony, a bright pink mane and tail, and eyes full of tears. Minty really didn't know where she was going, her mind still a blur of the events she had experienced. As a virgin, she felt as if she had experienced a murder, or worse. She blindly stumbled around the town, completely unaware she forgot her socks, and her vision was blurred by the constant tears. Before she knew it, she was tripping over the stairs to the library door.

“Who are you? Are you okay?” Twilight began to use her horn out of habit to scan her vital signs, noticing an increased heart rate and nothing else. “My name's Twilight...and...” the pony glanced away from her, shrinking like a violet as if she was going to be punished. This confused the unicorn even more, and her darting eyes searched for any scars or other injuries that could be visible. Then she saw the dried blood on her inner thigh, and gasped in horror. She knew what had happened. “Oh my gosh! We've got to get you to Nurse Redheart!”

Big Macintosh strolled into the barn, stashing his gift for Applejack behind a few piles of hay, taking a nibble for himself before turning to head out to the orchards to help his sisters with their apple bucking duties. After a few minutes of searching around, he finally found the orange earth pony, doing what she did best as she kicked a tree right in the sweet spot, sending it's lead dropping into the well placed baskets.

“Hey ya sis!” he called out, walking up beside her. “You seem distracted today.”

“Ah'm tryin to get all this apple buckin' done afore tonight! Braeburn is coming over all the way from Appleloosa, and ah want to be able to have the whole day to treat him right tomorrow. He should be on his way from the Ponyville train station soon. Got him a bed set up in the barn and everythin'!”

“Why would he want to come here?” Big Mac blinked, “It isn't time for another Apple Clan Reunion, is it?”

“No!” Applejack gave a playful punch to Big Mac's leg. “He said he was curious what Ponyville was like after hearin' all about it when we were there delieverin' Bloomberg,” she stopped her bucking to remove her hat and wipe the sweat from her forehead.

“Hey there, cuz!” a familiar voice drawled, making the two ponies turn their heads to see Braeburn coming up the path. “Ya'll didn't tell me this place was so far away!”

“Hey, Brae! Ah got Granny Smith cookin up her famous Apple Pie, then we can wash it down with some of our famous hard cider.” Applejack ran through the rest of the itinerary for the night when Braeburn interrupted with a loud yawn.

“Actually, Ah'm kinda' tired from the trip. Don't see how ya'll can sleep on those trains like that,” he explained as he cracked his back audibly.

“Well, ya bed's in the barn if'n ya wanna hit the hay,” Applejack snickered at her own bad pun, but quickly regained composure. “Ah'll have Big Mac bring ya some pie and cider, then ya'll can get some rest. We've got a big day showin' ya around town tomorrow.”

“Ah would like that very much, ma'm,” Braeburn nodded, a smile on his face. Applejack led him to the barn while Big Mac went to get the pie and cider.

“Hey, Brae. You still awake?” Big Mac whispered, opening the door to the barn quietly.

“Shure am! What's up?” Braeburn asked, his eyes bright and wide smile. His hat and vest were off and he was already getting into bed when Big Mac walked in. The big red stallion walked in, a plate with a slice of pie held tightly in his teeth, and a six pack of cold cider on his back, making him trot in with urgency as the chill went down his spine. He sat them down on the floor of the barn. “Hows about ya'll have a drink with me? Like old times!”

Big mac nodded, a smile on his face. “How's life been in Appleloosa lately? Heard ya'll had a big land dispute not to long ago.”

Braeburn took a swig of cider and waved a hoof dismissively. “Nah. We got it all worked out. Them buffalo folk are right nice when ya get to know em.”

Big Mac nodded in agreement, taking a swig of his own cider, his teeth clenched hard and his eyes screwed shut when the bitter taste hit his tongue. This cider was extra fermented, and could probably be used in one of Twilight's spell concoctions, if only for its explosive properties. “Most folks are if ya take the time to talk to em.” He noticed Braeburn had already finished his pie and was working on his second bottle of cider. Feeling that he should keep up, Big Mac polished off his first one, and grabbed another one in his teeth, twisting the cap off with ease.

After the last two were gone, the room was spinning now. Applejack was going to get a good talking too about this. Selling cider this hard could get them in trouble. Big Mac held his head as if that would stop his spinning vision. After that failed, he shook his head, sending his already sweaty mane flying about and clinging to his forehead. He heard Braeburn snicker, and shot a dirty look at the pony, who seemed to be a bit excited at the prospect of being locked in a barn with the studliest pony in town. The alcohol was in full effect, as Braebun's inhibition was tossed away, causing him to open his mouth. “Ah always wuz a bit jealous that you got all the muscles of the family,” he crossed his hooves across his chest.

Big Mac smiled, his own addled mind taking this as foreplay. “Well, whut do ya plan to do about it?” he asked in a fake smug tone, looking up as Rarity would at a commoner.

“A'll wrassel ya! To show ya you ain't all that!” Braeburn snapped, leaping onto the draft pony without warning, sending them both tumbling to the floor. Big Mac grunted in frustration, ready to buck and toss the pony off his back, when he felt something strange poking at the base of his tail. He immediately knew what it was, and blushed slightly.

“Now, Brae. We don't want to do nutthin' we'll regret.” Big Mac calmly replied, not that he'd probably remember tonight anyway as that cider seemed to eat away brain cells every minuet.

It was too late. Braeburn was already getting into the zone, and Big Mac felt the offending object working its way lower as the pony slid his way down his back. Soon it found its destination, and was all to eager to proceed. Big Mac's eyes shot open in horror at what was going on, but bucking him off now would be painful for all ponies involved. Soon, however, the fright subsided for a strange feeling up his spine, and the hot breath on the nape of his neck. The smell of the cider poured out with their sweat as Braeburn began his ministrations, sliding in slowly and moaning like an animal as the warmth embraced him.

Big Mac began snorting in passion as well, confused yet enjoying this feeling at the same time. An odd combination of forbidden actions and unexplored lands made for a butterfly samba in his stomach as he felt Braeburn try to force himself deeper, his back hoof scraping against his cutie mark as he thrust awkwardly. His own need was pressed painfully against the floor, and the thrusting made this position worse. Reaching behind him with his forehooves, he used his massive strength to lift Braeburn up and out, and placed him on the ground next to him. He then quickly rolled over to relieve the pressure.

“Well, looks like ya'll got excited too!” Braeburn got to wobbly hooves, and after a few misplaced steps to find the real floor among many, he made his way over to the blushing stallion and climbed back on top, positioning himself for the next phase of their game. Big Mac was too confused, embarrassed, and drunk to provide any resistance as his thickness slid into Braeburn, not being able to fit all the way, much to his dismay. He planted his forehooves on Mac's chest and attempted to move up and down, gritting his teeth as he adjusted to the size. After getting a good rhythm going, Braeburn began sweating even more, filling Big Mac's flaring nostrils with the smell of cider and musk. Big Mac's head jerked back as a sudden sensation built between his flanks, and soon, erupted upwards and into the waiting pony above him. This caused Braeburn's own climax, covering his partner's face with his own excitement.

Braeburn collapsed on top of the stallion, sticky mess in between them as they drifted off to sleep, hoping that the morning wouldn't be too terribly awkward.

Unbeknownst to them, however, was the curious orange Pegasus peering through a knothole in the barn door, a look of horror and curiosity on her face. It wasn't what she was looking for, but it was different that's for sure.

Spike-ing The Cider: Part One

Spike had found himself standing outside the currently closed Carousel Boutique, wondering how exactly he got into this situation. All he knew was that the guilt of being a curious little dragon hung over his head, and he allowed himself to be roped in by Apple Bloom's devious charms. How she did it, he didn't know. He was used to being the one blindly chasing ponies that ignored his every advance and heartfelt service. Now, in a strange twist, a pony he never gave much thought is fawning over him. Though he enjoyed the possibility of exploring this new relationship further in the future, he wished it had been under different, and less incriminating, circumstances. His thoughts dissipated as he focused on the task as hand, using the ever versatile tip of his tail to pick the elaborate yet practical lock on the boutique door. With a quiet click, his eyes lit up that he was in.

Slinking into the darkness, hearing the faint and very unladylike snoring of the unicorn that used to dominate his dreams coming from upstairs, he proceed with extreme caution. His eyes allowed him to see in the dark. Lucky for him, Opalescence was asleep, or she would've saw him too. Spike paused, a devious smile on his face as he briefly thought of sneaking upstairs to sneak a peak at Rarity. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity, and one that would more than make up for the sin he was about to commit in the name of Apple Bloom. A final goodbye to those memories of the elusive unicorn that even a virgin as pure as him couldn't catch. He nodded that this was a good idea, and began to creep up the creaking stairs, stopping with every tiny groan to make sure nopony heard him. He finally reached the top after a few unnerving minutes, and followed the increasing volume of the light, but still uncivilized, snoring. He reached the bedroom door, open just a crack to allow air to circulate, and peered inside.

There, in repose on her side on her plush rounded bed, was Rarity. Her pink robe made of what he guessed was very fine silk, hung loosely and open on her shoulders, somehow making the normally nude pony look very risque and attractive. Guess clothes really do make the pony Spike mused to himself as he took in the site, noticing that he also had a clear view of her firm flanks, and the unexpected surprise of the bonus just below them. Something that was always there, but hardly seen under normal circumstances, much like the myth of the unicorn itself.

It was then he felt the cool draft from the room brush up against a certain part of himself, and he blushed wildly. How did he get himself into these things? He reached down with a trembling hand, careful of his claws as he began to ease the pain in his strangely hemi-structured self. The squirming and rolling unicorn in front of him only served to keep him going longer, forcing him to look away to finally end his self induced passion. Once that torture was over, he sighed and ventured back downstairs, finding that black curtain that had so eluded the Crusaders, and pulled it aside.

This is what they were so worked up over?! It's just a room! Spike rolled his eyes as he ventured inside, looking at all the toys and devices sat out neatly. He smiled as a thought crossed his mind, Rarity in one of those gags or blinders, and a purple dragon on her back riding to the rescue. He shook his head, trying to get rid of his daydreams. He finally had a pony that saw him for the gentle soul he was, and he was being unfaithful before the first date. He made a note to himself to make up for that, rather Apple Bloom knew why or not. He knew exactly what the filly wanted, so took caution In making his selection for something that would be enjoyable to the both of them. His eyes widened when he saw what he was looking for, and he smiled that maybe he would enjoy having a new girlfriend.

Meanwhile, Sweetie Belle was singing to herself as she went about clearing out the dead leaves from the CMC Clubhouse. Rarity insisted she stay there in order to prevent any sneaking around into the adults only room at night while she was sleeping. Pinkie Pie was tasked to watch over them, as she needed a bit of cheering up. She was feeling better, but her thoughts kept drifting back to what she did to her friend, and how she could be so thoughtless.

“Hurry up and finish clearing the leaves, Sweetie Belle,” Pinkie spoke, her voice lacking the character it normally had. “It's almost time for bed.”

“I still don't know why Rarity kicked me out like that! It's like she doesn't trust me.” Sweetie Belle protested, kicking the last of the leaves away and pausing to pull some errant ones from her fluffy tail. All of her work was for neigh however, as the pile of leaves she just created exploded in a blur of orange. Scootaloo skidded to halt on her scooter, shaking the leaves from her wings and hair.

“You'll never guess what I just saw!” she exclaimed, then saw Pinkie Pie staring at her with a mix of confusion and surprise. “Never mind, not while she's here.” the filly whispered, leaning over to the unicorn as she continued to watch Pinkie to make sure she didn't overhear. It was a bad idea to talk about such things around her after what Apple Bloom had told them had happened.

Pinkie was about to ask if Scootaloo ever had a home to go to, but decided against such a mean spirited jibe in favor of enforcing bed time. Maybe babysitting was just what she needed to get her mind off things. She glanced over her shoulder, half expecting Apple Bloom to appear just as randomly, but to no avail. She was probably back at home with her sister and the rest of the family.

Apple Bloom was safe at home, but far from asleep. Pacing around in frustration in the south field where the corn was grown, she didn't notice the passage of time, nor did she notice a certain filly fleeing the scene of a highly unexplainable situation. She was happy to see cousin Braeburn as he made his way to the barn, wondering what they were going to do tomorrow. But right now her thoughts were focused on the young dragon and why she had a thing for him. Maybe it was because he was cute. His naive yet intelligent personality, loyalty, and his humor made a winning combination. While Applejack might think it strange to go outside the pony species, she knew Spike well enough that her sister was in good claws. After all, it wasn't like he'd grow into a savage, mindless beast like the wild dragons that dwell in the forest. He was domesticated, and didn't have a single malicious bone in his body unlike the more educated dragons that lived alone in the dark caves. She glanced up, about ready to leave and go to bed, when she saw in the distance the dragon himself coming up the patch, carrying a bag. HE DID IT! she thought as she began leaping around in a circle, trying not to make too much noise as she didn't want to seem desperate.

“Okay, where's my payment?” Spike asked, quirking a brow at he filly's amorous expression. Not that he already didn't know the answer, that's why he came prepared after all.

“Ah said ah'd pay ya back in spades. So here it is,” she smiled as she leaned forward, her warm lips meeting the cold scales of Spike's own. They held like that for a few moments until Apple Bloom began sliding her tongue into Spike's mouth, causing the dragon to go wide eyed and push her back.

“What was THAT?! he gasped, wiping his mouth.

“Aww, I was jus' doin' what ah saw in those movies.” Apple Bloom frowned. Already she was doing it wrong. Spike saw her watering eyes and blushed, feeling like a complete mule.

“Well, it...felt good.” he stammered.

Apple Bloom's gaze shot up from the ground, her tears now ones of happiness. “Well I learned a bit more, if ya wanna...ya know...”

“Well, I kinda figured...” Spike glanced away, a smile on his face as he held the bag up, blushing. “So I got something that should make it even more fun.” His stomach began to knot. Not only was this his first time, they were both what you would call an 'unacceptable' age for these sorts of activities. But true love had no boundaries within age or species if both parties were passionate about their feelings.

The filly nodded, and led the dragon to a small clearing.

Spike-ing The Cider: Part Two

This chapter contains consensual minors. If this offends you, please feel free to tell me all about it in the comments section below. But at least take comfort that one of them is a girl.

Sitting in the eerie silence of the Ponyville infirmary, the moon shining through the floor to ceiling windows of the simple structure with the curtain door, Twilight Sparkle stared at the floor as she awaited the verdict about Minty. She had managed to at least get the troubled pony to tell her name, but that was as far as she could hope to get. There was no need to go into details, as it was pretty obvious what had happened. Her eyes glanced around as the gears in her mind turned. Who would do such a thing in a place like this? Was there some predator on the loose? Would the fillies be safe? All of these overwhelming thoughts were to much, and the gravity of the situation began to press painfully on her temples, causing her to rub her eyes with her hooves. Now that her logical thinking was on, she thought back to her own adventure the night before, and soon it all fell into place. Rarity said that toy wouldn't take my virginity....but...that's not possible, she glanced up to see if Minty was fine, seeing her shaking visibly at being intruded once again, but this time for a good reason. Why would Rarity care about such things anyway, unless she felt her friends were saving themselves much like she was for a Mr. Right. That wasn't the case, however, she just couldn't find anybody. But it obviously didn't do it, so how did.... Twilight facehoofed as it dawned on her. She was so lost in the moment, and distracted by three certain fillies outside, that her emotionally charged magic had put the toy in the wrong opening.

She blushed at this rookie mistake, hoping that Minty or Nurse Redheart didn't see this display of guilt and ignorance. Quickly she turned her eyes back to the floor. But that would mean Rarity doesn't know exactly how to use those things, or what they do, which was a bad thing if she had given something to somepony without proper instruction.

“Well, the good news is, Minty is fine. She doesn't have to worry about any...surprises...” Nurse Redheart explained, trying to put it mildly. The white earth pony had to be professional about this after all, privacy and self esteem was at stake. “But the strange thing is, was I found traces of...” she looked at her clipboard once again, almost as she didn't believe it herself, “carrot?”

Twilight quirked an eyebrow at this revelation. Who in Equestria would misuse a carrot in such a horrific manner? It was just so...so....

Random Twilight grimaced as the word crossed her mind. No, it couldn't be!

“So....what did those ponies do in those movies you were talking about?” Spike asked, trying to play it cool but at the same time feeling kind of nervous. His mind was buzzing with all the possible ways he could mess this up, scare her off, or both.

“Well, they was all kissin' an' stuff. They didn't really do much else.” Apple Bloom confessed. Of course she wouldn't be allowed to watch anything to extreme, even if she knew it existed. Spike took this opportunity to help educate the filly on something that he was sure wouldn't be brought up in Cheerilee's class anytime soon. Of course all he knew of it was from Twilight's books, which he had to read in secret, because she always conveniently never asked for them or acknowledged their existence while he was on duty.

“What you were doing before...Spike was cut off by the filly being suddenly closer to him.

“Ya want me to do it again?” she asked, her eyes pleading.

Spike nodded, blushing once more as they locked lips again, her forehooves over his shoulders. Apple Bloom wasted no time sliding her tongue into the dragon's mouth now, as he was ready for it. His eyes rolled to the back of his head as he found his own tongue sliding out, vying for dominance. Apple Bloom began feeling hot, like she was melting, and there was a curious yet slightly painful burning between her flanks. Then she felt something poking her thigh, and knew what it was. The kiss broke and she got back down on all four hooves to see it. Her face instantly twisted in confusion. She had seen her brother's on accident once, but never said anything. She just assumed all of them looked the same, but then again, Spike wasn't a pony.

“Ya got two of 'im?!” she asked, louder than Spike would've liked as he glanced around to make sure there was nothing to catch them.

“Well, not exactly...” his whole face was red now from embarrassment and exertion as he scratched the back of his head nervously.

Apple Bloom continued to stare at this foreign object, making Spike feel as if he was being scrutinized , or at least was going to be laughed at or terrified of. But the sight also made her feel strange in her most private of areas too. She was hardly on the cusp of being a mare yet, but she had begun going through the changes. Biological needs dictated the future of ponykind, and since there was a surprising lack of males in Ponyville, she had heard her sister talking a few times about the 'time of the month' and how hard it was to stave off those feelings if you hadn't found somepony. Her mind equated that perhaps these were the feelings Applejack was talking about. But why would you want to get rid of them? she smiled as she leaned forward, her hot breath against his sensitive pride making Spike grimace as he bit back the urge to act on the primal instincts that began to surface. Dragons were always very rough when mating, but he didn't want to hurt the filly in his wild passion, not with claws, fangs, and fire anyway. He would never forgive himself. After a few seconds of teasing, he felt warmth and wetness envelope him, and he almost fainted as a goofy smile spread across his face.

Apple Bloom really didn't know how to handle two at once, but she was doing an admiral job, as the dragon's wobbly knees could attest. It also helped that he wasn't fully grown yet, meaning that right now she could easily navigate them without too much trouble. The taste was odd, yet sweet, like nothing she had ever tasted before. As her mind tried to find a comparison that she could relate to her friends later, she felt the heat between her flanks increase, a smoldering fire waiting to reignite. Sweat formed on her brow as the pain became almost unbearable to her, and now she knew why Applejack wanted to get rid of these feelings. Spike snapped back to reality when he was released, and glanced down to see Apple Bloom collapse to the ground with tears in her eyes.

“What's wrong? Did I hurt you?!” Spike began frantically trying to find anything that could help with the problem he never bothered asking about.

Apple Bloom could only shake her head, tears in her eyes. Her back legs were open in a vain hope that the cool air would end her misery. Spike finally calmed down when he saw what was going on. She was bright red and he could see faint twitching. He knew of this from when Twilight was going through her own time of the month, choosing to lock herself in the library bathroom than go out and try to actually date. He saw what was wrong if only for a brief moment before Twilight disappeared in her porcelain fortress of solitude. But Apple Bloom wasn't old enough for that, so it must've been his doing. He immediately came to her side, trying to offer penance for bringing this pain upon her, but she only shook her head. She whispered in his ear a way to make the pain stop, and he flushed again, looking at the redness once more. He crawled down to between her flanks, and could feel the heat rising from the area, a desert among an oasis. He slowly leaned forward and flicked out his forked tongue. The instant the tip came in contact with the engorged flesh, Apple Bloom's hips thrust forward violently, knocking him backwards. Looks like he figured out how to make her feel good as well.

With a satisfied smile that everything was alright again, he reached into the bag and produced a small tube. Removing the lid, the air filled with the smell of cinnamon, and he glanced around to make sure that no pink ponies would spring from nowhere wanting a bite. Once he decided the coast was clear, he squeezed some into his hand and began working it over like the instructions said. He then got into position, swallowing hard as he began to put all his forbidden knowledge to practice, and slowly entered her. The coolness of the gel extinguishing the fire immediately, but at the same time, making a different kind of pain as the cinnamon burned in an oddly enjoyable way on the sensitive areas. There was no resistance to his machinations, which would've been odd if he knew what to look for. Once at least one was inside, he paused for a moment to let the squirming filly catch her breath, the blush now extending to almost her stomach. Spike was out of his mind, the lizard brain trying to take dominance as dragon mating rituals ingrained in his DNA began to awaken early. He gritted his teeth, taking care not to sink his claws into Apple Bloom's fetlocks that he held delicately in his hands. The cinnamon burn, the heat, the tight grip, it was all too much, and after a few thrusts, Spike wrenched his head back as he felt a wave of pleasure wash through him and burst from the dam below. The sudden rush made Apple Bloom shudder, partially out of fright, as strange feelings made themselves known, and her body froze against her will, her innocence leaving her for the rest of her life as her tongue lolled out of her mouth.

Spike collapsed on top if the filly, feeling the heat and sweat on her stomach and chest as she panted heavily. “Did....did I get my....Cutie Mark....” but Spike was already fast asleep, as it was past his bedtime anyway. Apple Bloom figured that she had better get him home before Twilight thought something was up, but was to tired to do anything. She'd come up with a lie tomorrow. She rolled over, letting Spike fall off of her and land on the ground with a dull thud, his sleeping undisturbed. Gripping the tip of his tail in her teeth, she began to drag him across the ground gently, back to the barn, where she could come up with the excuse that Spike wanted to spend the night. Her mind contemplated this new feeling of maturity she now had, and it felt better than getting a Cutie Mark. She looked down at the sleeping dragon, and blinked a few times to get rid of any tears.

“Thank you, Spike...” she whispered into his ear, giving a light kiss on his cheek.

Twilight Sparkle: Ace Investigator

The kitchen of Sweet Apple Acres was engulfed in an awkward silence as Braeburn and Big Macintosh sat and waited for their apple fritter breakfast. They occasionally glanced at each other, both blushing at the events that unfolded last night, and silently hoped that nopony knew. Braeburn felt the most guilt of the two. He always did feel he was kind of a colt cuddler, but tried to play it off, if only to keep the others in Appleloosa from looking down upon him. But alcohol always brought out those latent tendecies, and now he had revealed them to a family member! Not that he didn't think other ponies thought of the Apple Clan as a bunch of inbreeds anyway. But it didn't make him feel any better to prove those arguments right. But the strangest thing was, out of all the times he had done the same thing to other colts back in Appleloosa, he never really felt anything special towards them. They were just tossed away, never to be seen again. But now that he had done this with a family member, his own cousin, things were different. Not only could he bring himself to throw Big Mac away, he also felt a rush of guilt complied out of all the other times his conscience should've ate at him. His midnight cowpony routine finally netted a catch that he couldn't release.

Big Mac saw as his cousin rolled his eyes at his own terrible pun, but didn't know that's what it was about. The normally reserved stallion didn't really remember as much about last night as Braeburn did, not being as accustomed to the paint thinning levels of alcohol that Braeburn was because of his lack of exposure to Apploosian Moonshine. All he knew was he woke up with a headache and covered in a sticky substance. When he saw Braburn still partially impaled upon him, his mind registered that this was terribly wrong, and he quickly removed the passed out pony from on top of him, wondering if at all possible if he was the one who initiated that event.

“Eat up you two, Applejack can't wait to take Braeburn out on the town today!” Granny Smith placed the plates of apple fritters before the two, who could only weakly chuckle and mutter a thank you before returning to the uncomfortable silence of before. The thickness of the air was cut by the sound of the door opening, and both turned to see Apple Bloom come cantering inside, her head held high, eyes closed, and a smile on her face.

“You look in a good mood this mornin'!” Applejack commented, “Ya must've slept like a baby.” She didn't notice her sister frown at those words as she took her seat next to Big Mac and Braeburn. “An where was you last night, big guy?” she teasingly nudged Bic Mac with a hoof, causing the stallion to slightly choke on his fritter as his eyes scrabbled around for an explanation.

“He was drinkin' with me and we kind of passed out.” Braeburn hung his head in shame. It was the truth, but not the whole truth. Just enough to slip under the Element of Honesty's radar. Applejack thought this over when she saw her brother nod in agreement.

“That cider ya gave me was too potent! Ah still got a headache!” he placed a hoof to his still sore head, eyes spinning slightly.

“Oops, heh, sorry bout that. Sometimes ah forget those are down there and they sit a while.” Applejack lowered her head so her hat hid her blushing. She glanced up to see Apple Bloom giggling at her sister, and smiled. “An where was you, last night?” The filly stopped laughing, her eyes widened in terror.

Does she know?! “Spike was helpin' me study last night. Got a big test in Ms. Cheerilee's class comin up.” To her relief, Applejack nodded. Though she wasn't much into public education, she knew the importance of it. She may not have finished school, but she wasn't dumb.

Big Mac waited a few moments before producing the bag he obtained from Rarity's handing it to Applejack, a grin on his face as he hoped this would change the subject. Applejack recognized the bag, and looked inside, her face blushing as she shot an angry stare at her brother. “An' what in the hay am I gonna use this for?” she asked, trying to sound upset but failing as she batted her brother's shoulder with a hoof.

“Well, ah figured ya would know what to do.” Big Mac nodded, causing his sister to blush further. Of course HE knows, he's my brother, she thought, rolling her eyes as her mind began to picture a certain rainbow maned Pegasus.

“What is it? Can I see?” Apple Bloom asked, playing off that she kind of already knew. She strained to try and see inside the bag but Applejack snatched it off the table and sat it on the floor.

“Sorry, sugarcube. Ya'll ain't old enough yet,” she shook her head, something Apple Bloom was all to familiar with hearing.

“Ah'm not a baby!” she protested, hoping that her common phrase didn't sound too different now that it was cold, hard truth. For once in her life, she was glad the adults ignored her like they always did when she said that. After those few strange moments, the Apple Family kitchen returned to normal with conversation about the day ahead.

No, no, no! This can't be right! I refuse to believe it! Twilight was pacing the floor of the library, desperately trying to convince herself that a certain pink pony didn't commit a horrible act of rape. At least, not on purpose anyway. The only way she was going to know for sure, was to ask Minty what exactly happened. She sighed as she looked over at the green earth pony, staring silently into her cup of tea as it began to cool. “Minty...” she looked up at her name being called, her pink mane hanging in her eyes slightly. “I know it still hurts, and that you don't want to think about it anymore. But I need to know.....who did this to you.” Minty looked back at her tea, saying nothing. Twilight gritted her teeth in a vain attempt to muffle her groan of frustration. Ever since the mayor had made her the somewhat 'official private investigator' of Ponyville, all she had to do was deal with easy things like lost pets or missing items. Now there was a serious crime ahoof, and all roads pointed to Pinkie Pie. How things spiraled out of control so quickly she had no idea, but she knew she had to hear it straight from the horses mouth, so to speak.

Glancing back at Minty, she could see the tears in her eyes. It pained Twilight to be so helpless, especially in a situation like this, and that drove her all the more to find answers. But first things first, she needed to find Spike. “Spiiiike?” she called, waiting for her special assistant to come downstairs and begin his daily duties. “Spiiiiiike?!” she huffed in frustration when there was still no response. What is going on here? First Minty, now Spike is missing. her eyes widened at the brief thought that maybe Spike was the one behind this crime, but she immediately shook her head at how stupid that notion was. Spike would never do something like that! He probably doesn't even know what sex is all about. Minty began to sob once again, making Twilight's stomach knot that maybe the mention of Spike's name was the one that triggered it. But, then again, if Pinkie was the one behind this, it would be a bad idea to bring her along because of the emotional trauma it could cause. She needed somepony that could keep a watchful eye over her, and provide a level of comfort that a bookish pony like her had no idea about.

She needed Fluttershy...

A rainbow maned Pegasus peered from over the edge of the cloud she was resting on, smiling at the fortune brought upon her when she saw Applejack and Braeburn walking through Ponyville Square, Braebrun taking in the sights of the elaborately structured buildings especially the one that looked like it was made of candy. Oh, how Rainbow Dash enjoyed raining on that earth pony and her parade. It was all in good fun, and it wasn't her fault that Applejack didn't keep tabs on the weather. Giggling to herself, she got into position and licked her lips, her hooves sinking into the soft cloud material. Ever since Celestia had ordered Pegasi to control the weather to avert natural disasters and to help prevent droughts and flooding, Dash had began to appreciate the weather that used to ruin her childhood days of flying practice. Now she was about to ruin Applejack's day. Once she felt they were close enough, Dash began leaping up and down on the cloud, water seeping around her hooves as if she was stomping on a sponge. Soon, the cloud released its contents onto the two hapless ponies, and she could hear them reacting to the sudden rush of cold.

“GOSHDANGIT, RAINBOW DASH! AH'M GONNA GET YOU FER THAT!” Applejack shouted up at the cloud. Braeburn looked over at his cousin, confused why she was shouting at the cloud, when he followed her gaze up to see a small bit of rainbow fringe over the edge, moving wildly as Dash held her sides in laughter. Soon her wide eyed face appeared, and Braeburn recognized her.

“Sorry, I just couldn't resist!” Dash chuckled, trying to catch her breath. She flapped her wings arrogantly as she lept off the cloud and glided down to land before the two soggy ponies, enjoying the feel of the rain through her feathers as she got herself soaked to make amends.

Applejack laughed at this gesture, then frowned. Dash began to worry as the earth pony approached her then whispered in her ear. “I got something for us, later.” she pulled away in time to see Dash turn her head to face her, confusion in her violet eyes.

Does she know? Dash bit her lip. She had been having strange feelings around Applejack lately, as well as Pinkie Pie of all ponies. She also had a few butterflies around Twilight Sparkle. Now the one that she thought she would never accept, was dropping hints? She shook her head in disbelief until a reassuring wink from the earth pony confirmed her suspicions. This matter would have to be explored later as Dash began crafting a long list of questions to ask. She blinked as she watched Applejack walk away, her head high and a smug smile on her face, eyes closed in a cool manner. Braeburn tipped his hat and gave a formal bow. “Nice to meet ya again ma'm.” then replaced his Stetson and hurried to join his cousin. A smile splayed across Dash's face. This was going to be fun.

Twilight stood in silence as she watched Fluttershy look over the mint green pony, her cyan eyes ensuring that there was nothing physically wrong. She nodded in satisfaction then looked at Twilight. “She just needs some time to heal. I can take care of her for you,” she nodded, eyes closed in confidence.

“If anypony can help her recover, it's you.” Twilight smiled. Fluttershy noticed the smile fade and her eyes drift over to nothing of importance. There was something on her mind, but she didn't want to be rude and encroach. The unicorn finally sighed and looked back at the yellow Pegasus, hanging her head. “Have you seen Pinkie Pie anywhere?”

Fluttershy thought for a moment. “Well, she did say she was babysitting Sweetie Belle since Rarity kicked her out of the boutique.”

“Rarity did what?!” Twilight gasped, her forehooves leaving the ground as she jolted back. “You're kidding?”

“Oh...no....” Fluttershy replied, hiding her face behind her pink mane in fear that she upset her friend. “She said it was only temporary until Rarirty put in a door with a lock on that room she has,” she paused and glanced up at her friend. “What is back there anyway?”

Twilight blushed, now wasn't the time to be talking about such things, especially not with a mentally scarred pony standing between them, her tail pressed firmly against her hindquarters in natural defense mode. Fluttershy's scanning eyes, as well as those of Nurse Redheart, only made her more uncomfortable as she felt she had done something wrong. “Just....things.....” the unicorn finally replied, hoping her frantic glancing at the mint pony would give Fluttershy the hint to drop the subject. To her relief, the Pegasus nodded, deciding instead to offer Minty some lunch. Satisfied that she was in good hooves, Twilight set off to find Pinkie Pie and get to the bottom of this.

Peppermint Rainbow Apples

“Twilight means well, Minty. She just wants what's best for you, that's all.” Fluttershy sighed, looking at her reflection in her teacup. She glanced up at the green pony, who was still silent and staring off into space. “Are you okay?” No response. Fluttershy was worried now. Her kindness only stretched so far, but Minty was so distant that none of her charms worked. Her eyes perked up as a thought crossed her mind. She remembered how calm she felt when her mother groomed her, and Minty certainly could use a bit of grooming. Guiding Minty to lie down on the floor, the yellow Pegasus took a position next to her and got close. “Now don't worry, Minty. I'm not going to hurt you,” she mustered her best motherly voice.

Minty's eyes went wide when she felt a tongue lap at the tip of her ear. She flinched, and Fluttershy paused. After a few seconds, Fluttershy determined the earth pony was okay, and resumed her grooming, trying to remember if she was doing it right. Minty's ear twitched in reaction to the licks and nips, and soon the Pegasus was working her way down to the mane, curious if she really was tasting peppermint as she performed her duty. The green pony flinched and squirmed at the strange sensations down her spine as she felt gentle teeth nipping at her neck. She wanted to break away and run, but part of her found this oddly comforting. Soon she realized that Fluttershy was only being motherly and nothing more. All of her thoughts about Pinkie and her horrible act faded as Minty closed her eyes and lost herself in memories of her own mother grooming her.

A rainbow blur streaked through the night, heading towards it's goal. The barn that stood as a landmark that ponies were entering Sweet Apple Acres as it had for generations, shown a faint light from it's windows that acted as a beacon to the sweeping colors approach. Landing with a bravado to rival that of the Wonderbolts, the Pegasus opened the door to see somepony had been busy.

“You said you got something for us?” Rainbow Dash asked, a confident smirk on her face as she strolled into the barn, kicking a hind leg to slam the door shut. Applejack nodded, pushing some bales of hay over to free up some floorspace. Little did she know the event that happened here the night before.

“Well, Dash....ah got ta thinkin' and I figured that maybe....ah was a filly fooler too.” Applejack confessed, adjusting her hat. She began to blush at this situation. She was all for trying it, but felt a little guilty that she turned to Dash automatically. Just because she liked other mares didn't make her an expert.

“You knew?” Dash was surprised. “I never told anypony!” She shook her head as if trying to wake up. “Plausible denial!”

“It wasn't hard to figure it out,” Applejack smirked. “The way you kept tryin' to one up me, the way we were fightin'. Truth be told, after a while....ah started to feel the same way about you. But ah had to know for sure.” She turned her green eyed stare away and blushed brighter than before.

“So you called me here to find out? Well, I'm game!” Dash smirked, lying down on the newly cleared floor in a casual manner. Applejack nodded in satisfaction and joined her, snuggling up close into a comfortable position and removing her hat. “And if you're not, I can probably make you one!”

“Is that a challenge, sugarcube?” Applejack eyed the Pegasus. “What do ya even know about doin this stuff anyway?”

“I read...things....” Dash blushed. “Besides, some of the moves look like flight moves anyway.”

“Flight moves?! Dash ya'll better not be tryin' any funny stuff.” Applejack warned.

The Pegasus took the jibing in stride as she awaited the first move. Applejack started nuzzling her head under Dash's chin, enjoying the feeling of warmth and the faint sound of the heartbeat in her ear. “Well then, if yer such an expert, why don't you make the first move?” she glanced up, her green eyes meeting violet just above her.

Dash smirked and began nibbling at Applejack's ear, unsure of where this was going to go, or even if the orange pony would go any further than cuddling at best. But she was up for the challenge of making her want more. A few well placed tugs elicited a moan from Applejack she hadn't heard before, and this spurred her on to continue.

“OW! Dang it, Dash! Yer doin' it all wrong!” Applejack pulled her head up and stared at the Pegasus, rubbing her ear with a hoof.

“Sorry! I did say I just read about this stuff!” Dash replied, shrugging a bit. Way to go, Dash. Blew it before it even began.

“Well, ah wouldn't reckon a Pegasus to know about how an earth pony does it.” Applejack smirked. “But ah can show ya.” She began to lick and nibble on Dash's ear, getting a few moans and murrs in response as she tugged gently on the tip. “Like that, understand...”

Dash could only nod slowly, her eyes closed as she was lost in the sudden feeling. She felt her wings begin to rise up on their own, until they were fully spread. This made her blush and she opened her eyes to see Applejack looking at the impressive display.

“Well, ah'll be. So what they say about the wings is true!” she gasped, rubbing a hoof gently over the feathers.

“Who says what about wings?” Dash asked, looking over her shoulder.

“About how they're a tell that a Pegasus is excited. I read about it in Cosmoponitan.” she returned to nibbling at Dash's ear, adding a few licks for good measure.

“Mmmmh, you read that junk?” Dash muttered, a blissful smile on her face. This was working out better than she had hoped.

“Nah. I just remembered the way your wings shot up when you saw Pinkie in that showmare outfit in Appleloosa.” Applejack whispered into the Pegasi's ear, causing Dash to blush again and shoot her a dirty glare.

“Yeah well, I might not know about how an earth pony does it, but I know you don't know how to handle my wings!” Dash replied, a grin across her face. She was playing right into her hooves Applejack accepted the challenge, and began running her muzzle through the soft feathers, taking in the faint sent of sweat from her speedy flight to this point. She didn't know the first thing about preening, but she did know of a few sweet spots. She lowered her head though the feathery barrier until her muzzle met the joint where the wing connected to the shoulder, and gave a playful nip at the taught muscle, causing Dash to yelp. That's one... she smiled as she worked her way across Dash's back and to the nerves that rested in between the wings. Another nip, and this time, Dash's wings jerked with an electrical shock as she let out an uncharacteristic moan. “I stand corrected,” the Pegasus admitted defeat.

“It ain't right you getting all the fun now!” Applejack stopped her loving nips, annoying Dash who shot her an angry scowl. “Ya'll still got to get me all worked up. Now remember what I showed ya!”

“Oh, I got a better idea...” Dash stood and turned around, laying down facing the opposite of Applejack. “I bet I can clop you off faster than you can do me!”

“Well, it ain't no fun if ya rush through it, Dash. What say we take it nice and slow, and whoever does win, loser has to wear the thing I wanted to show ya?” Applejack gave a confident smirk. Even in this, Dash was competitive, and it made the whole event more exciting than it should be. The earth pony was sure in her abilities as she lowered her head, a rainbow tail brushing over her face as it swayed in impatience.

“Are you ready....yet.....” Dash's voice trailed off when she felt a warm tongue against her, and a shudder escaped her body. “No....fair....” she frowned, quickly getting her head into the game, so to speak. Applejack's eyes went wide as she set about her work, trying hard not to let up her assault as she noticed Dash had to pause every now and again to let out a squeak or a moan. When she was in action, however, she was very good. She found herself wondering if Dash had done this before when a long lick sent her eyes rolling, and she finally had to stop to breathe.

Dash smirked as she felt the flagging tail banging upon her withers, and knew Applejack was close rather she wanted to admit it or not. She bent her head down to resume her explorations, noticing that her rival's steady diet of apples had somehow lent a flavor of warm cider, which spurred Dash on even more. Her hungry tongue wanted all the nectar from this stubborn oak.

Applejack began nipping at the soft flesh on her end, hoping that she could outlast the Pegasus. She glanced back to see Dash's wings were attempting to rise even higher now, almost as if they were going to pop from her shoulders and fly off on their own. She wondered how Pegasi dealt with that kind of social faux paux, and then her mind drifted to wonder if unicorn horns had the same effect. Another involuntary shudder through her body snapped her back to reality, as Dash was closing in on her goal. A few more minuets of treatment like that and I'd be a puddle on the floor! she mused, swishing her golden tail from off of Dash's withers and down over her eyes, a few strands getting into her nostrils.

“Hey!” Dash cried out. She sent her own rainbow appendage down over the earth pony's eyes, attempting a perversion of the usual competitive activities. Applejack fought back a sneeze and continued her duty, enjoying the kaleidoscope of color swishing before her. Without warning her tongue seized the fleshy nub that reminded her of how neglected her own had been. She rolled her eyes at the notion that Dash was in it to win it and therefore forgot the most important rule. A rule she quickly taught the Pegasus as her tongue swirled around. She felt her tail yank violently as Dash's head shot up, eyes wide and her muzzle glistening. She shot an angry scowl over to the earth pony, who glanced over her shoulder to give a wink. Dash looked so adorable with a blonde wig over her own rainbow locks and a sticky smirk, like a little filly who just got caught eating an Ursa Major's porridge.

“Oh it's ON! Dash proclaimed, diving back into the unknown and seizing the enemy fort. Applejack gasped as fire raced up her spine, and her hind legs began to kick, sending a hoof colliding with Dash's head. The Pegasus was undeterred however, and Applejack smirked at the notion that Dash did have a thick skull after all.

“There, there...it's okay...” Fluttershy cooed as she continued her grooming. Her expertise in anatomy, first aid, and her own memories guided her hooves as she kneaded them into the muscles around Minty's cutie mark. She looked at the three peppermints and smiled, wondering what her interests were. After building up the courage, she decided to ask. “So...um...how did you get your cutie mark?”

Minty opened her eyes slightly and glanced around, her mind trying to make sense of why something that felt so wrong before felt so right now. “I...I used to sell candy back in Fillydelphia....peppermints were my favorite...”

Fluttershy smiled widely. She's talking! That's good!, she paused her massaging for a moment to think about the next question to ask. She had to take this slow. “What was it like....?” then she quickly added “In Fillydelphia I mean...”

Minty shrugged, still in a bit of a haze but at the same time, opening up more. “It wasn't anything like this. Big cities are full of noise and carriages and trains. Here it's so.....”

“Peaceful?” Fluttershy finished, biting her lip thinking that she just ruined any chance she had.

Minty nodded. “Yes. Peaceful....” she glanced at the floor and gave a sad sigh.

“What's on your mind?” the Pegasus asked, laying back down next to the green pony. She raised a hoof and began to stroke Minty's pink mane. “I love your hair.” Minty blushed slightly, but regained composure. She gave a casual glace to her naked rear hooves, prompting Fluttershy to follow. “Is something wrong with your hooves?”

“Socks....” Minty replied, tears in her eyes. Fluttershy blinked in confusion at this scene, then registered an idea. She dashed off over to her knitting basket then bounded back with a pair of socks in her mouth. Minty gave the generous soul an odd stare.

“I made these for the winter, but you can have them...if you want to.” Fluttershy used her nose to gently push the items across the floor.

Minty finally smiled for the first time. “Thank you...”

Rainbow Dash lie on her back, her sides heaving and her tongue hanging out of her mouth. Applejack stood proudly over her new prize, glancing down at her worthy opponent. “A bet's a bet...” she nodded, licking her own sticky lips.

“You....cheated.....” Dash panted, rubbing the spot where the earth pony's powerful hoof collided with her cranium. “You're lucky you didn't knock a tooth loose!”

Applejack had already walked off and was just returning with a bag in her teeth. She placed it on the floor and gave a grin. She produced a leather collar and a riding crop, lying them gently on the floor.

“Whoa, whoa, whoa!” Dash began to back away. “Don't you think you're getting a little carried away? I do have my dignity!” She spread her wings proudly and held her head high.

“Dash, ya'll lost yer dignity when ya came to mah door.” Applejack smirked. This made the Pegasus frown and droop her wings. “Sides, I ain't the one who got this, Big Mac did.”

“Really? How rough does he think you are?” Dash recoiled, her mind trying not to think of how Applejack could possibly answer that.

“Dunno,” she shrugged. “But it seems a right shame to waste his hospitality” Applejack placed the collar around Dash's neck and fastened it tightly. “Now then...” she picked up the riding crop and gave a swift whack across the flank, making Dash yelp. Big Mac knew that she would enjoy this. “You will address me as Master, and do as ah say.” Dash could only cringe in mock terror, waiting for the right moment. Applejack bent down and gripped the other end of the leash in her teeth. Dash's brow perked up and she seized the opportunity, taking off into the air while jerking the earth pony up with her. Applejack hung by her teeth, flailing her hooves in anger. Dash smirked and turned over, reaching down and pulling her up. Now safely in hooves, Applejack spat out the collar. “What in the hay you think yer doin?!”

“You didn't give me a chance to show you how we Pegasi do it!” Dash grinned, lowering herself until she was a few inches above the ground. She didn't want a long fall in case this didn't work. Showing surprising strength, she turned and brought Applejack around so the orange pony was sitting on top of her. She glanced down to see they were still in the air and looked a bit ill. “I won't drop you, trust me!” After a bit of repositioning, Applejack gasped when she rubbed up against Dash, both blushing.

“Ya'll do it in the air?” she gasped, trying to hold on until the anxiety fully subsided.

“Not all the time, but it's awesome!” Dash smiled, urging Applejack to continue her grinding against her need, trying to keep her wings flapping amidst being lost in pleasure. The earth pony complied, and began to grind with more vigor, trusting Dash wouldn't let her fall, if only for a few inches. It didn't take long for her to reach her peak, as she had been left hanging by Dash earlier in their contest. An embarrassing whinny escaped her lips as she threw her head back, her golden tail wagging frantically. Dash still hadn't fully come down from her last one, and this didn't help matters. Soon her whole body was shuddering, twisting wildly in the air until her wings locked up and she hit the floor. She had only a few seconds to ensure she took the brunt of the fall, Applejack snickering at this turn of events. “It works...better with....two sets of wings....” Dash panted, eliciting a weak laugh from Applejack as she rolled off. “So...” she rolled over to face the earth pony. “Did I convince you?”

“Ah'll admit it was fun an all, but...” Applejack bit her lip, looking for the right words to say. “Ah still don't know....” she saw Dash's eyes glance to the ground, and she could feel the hurt in them. “Don't take it the wrong way, Dash. Ah don't want ya'll to think ah just used ya or anythin'.”

That was Dash's first thought. But this was the Element of Honesty she was talking too. Applejack would never use her friends, not in this capacity anyway. Her hoof fumbled with the collar until it released and hit the floor. “Well then,” she mustered a smile. “Call me if you want some more.”

Applejack smiled and nodded. “Sure thing. Be safe out there.”

Dash nodded and walked out of the barn. Applejack knew what she was thinking, but didn't know what to say.

Scootaloo Knows Games To Play

“I don't know, eh. Sounds kind of boring.” Snails protested, the gangly and somewhat unattractive colt shook his head, his normally clueless expression looking as bored as ever.

“Yeah! You can come up with better games than Doctor!” Snips added, frowning. He was smaller and rounder than the other ponies of his class. Scootaloo wanted to call him a pig, but remember her own mocking of being called a chicken and decided against it. “I thought Scootaloo knew games to play!” he mocked.

“But the two colts I saw doing it seemed to be having lots of fun!” Scootaloo explained, her tiny wings erect at the thought of what she had witnessed in the barn of Sweet Apple Acres. She wasn't about to name names however, as she did have some respect for privacy. “You can pretend you got some serious disease or something! Snails could be turning into a zombie pony!”

“I AM?!” the blue colt began to panic.

“No!” Scootaloo waved a hoof. “I'm just saying that Doctor is more fun than you make it sound.” Fortunately for the little pegasus, Snips and Snails were the type easily swayed by a cute filly, and her penchant for knowing fun games did come in handy.

“Well, we haven't played it before, eh. Maybe it won't be so bad.” Snails relented. “So how do we start, eh?”

“First you got to start by checking out the patient, making sure everything is still there.” Scootaloo smirked. Snails shrugged and began looking over Snips, who stood stoic, trying not to snicker at the awkward feeling this was bringing.

“Looks fine to me, eh.” Snails replied, looking up. “Now what?”

“No no no! You got to be hooves on, and check everywhere!” Scootaloo snapped, using her forehooves to elaborate that last word. Her little wings flared at the thought of the colt stupidly groping his friend, and a mischievous smirk spread across her face.

Snails sighed in frustration as he began prodding around Snips rotund body, the points of his hooves sinking painlessly into the chubby colt. Snips giggled at the tickling sensation each prod caused, but his eyes went wide when Snails' hooves ventured lower, to the place between his flanks.

Scootaloo was grinning madly now as she watched the scene play out. She didn't know why she enjoyed this so much, but the sight of Snails stupidly groping his friend was appealing nonetheless.

Snails finished his examination of Snips, and stood up, blushing slightly but thinking nothing of it. “He looks fine to me, eh.”

“You mean I'm not turning into a zombie pony?” Snips asked, his face showing relief more that he was still among the living than towards his friend ceasing his explorations. Though he did feel kind of excited about the whole ordeal, especially with Scootaloo watching like she was. Snails had noticed Snips excitement, but shrugged it off because he got those sometimes too.

“Well, now you have to take his temperature.” Scootaloo explained, her voice having an air of authority on the subject. This prompted Snips and Snails to look around dumbly at nothing in particular for a few moments, before the both looked back at the pegasus and shrugged.

“We don't have a thermometer, eh.” Snails replied.

The orange filly's smile grew wider. “Yes you do.”

“Pinkie, we need to talk.” Twilight spoke to the door of Sugarcube Corner. She absentmindedly tapped a hoof as she waited for the party pony to answer. After a few moments, the door cracked open.

“I'm sorry...I'm sorry...I'm sorry....” Pinkie began chanting, the one blue eye that peered from behind the door staring into infinity. Twilight bit her lip, as this confirmed all of her suspicions. Pinkie would never survive being banished to the Everfree Forest, or even worse given the weight of the crime.

“Pinkie, I believe you. I'm sure it was only an accident or some crazy situation you created...” Twilight rolled her eyes as she waved a hoof passively. That's all it is, an accident...

“No....I....forced myself on her....” Pinkie opened the door a bit more, showing she had been crying. Her mane was flat as the day she was born. Twilight flinched at the sight, and even more at these words.

“You...forced yourself....” she jerked her head to look Pinkie in the eyes. “Pinkie, this is a very serious situation! If Princess Celestia finds out about this she'll....” Twilight was cut off by Pinkie's wide eyed stare. She shouldn't have frightened her like that, but it was the truth. “I....I need to know what happened....”

“I was selfish. I hurt Minty, and I was so sad.” she looked up at the unicorn. “That's not me, Twilight! I'm not a bad pony!”

Twilight draped a hoof across Pinkie's back and pulled her close. “It's okay Pinkie...I know what it's like to be caught up in the moment,” the pink pony nodded in understanding. “But, you still have to apologize, and hope Minty forgives you.”

“How can she forgive me if I can't forgive myself?” Pinkie whispered. Twilight was stunned at how frighteningly profound she could be, especially when in this kind of mood.

“Ow, ow, OW!” Snails cried out at the pain. Snips was now behind him, attempting to take the green pony's temperature with his thermometer, his forelegs gripping Snail's flanks tightly. “I think you're doing it wrong, eh!”

“You got to push it in and pull it out!” Scootaloo continued to provide instructions, enjoying this way more than she should. Snips' legs began to cramp as he strained to reach Snails, and he finally gave up, placing his front hooves back on the ground with a frustrated sigh. “Come on guys! Don't stop now!”

“Why don't you play with us, eh?” Snails asked, sneering a bit.

“Yeah, it's easier to show than tell.” Snips added, his face daring the filly to join the fun.

Scootaloo cocked her head in a manner similar to her idol. Never one to back down from a challenge, she accepted and approached the two colts, both of them now somewhat excited from the physicality of their game. Snips and Snails decided to start over, both being doctors while Scootaloo was their patient.

“First we have to look you over, eh.” Snails remembered, pushing Scootaloo over onto her back. He commanded Snips to help and soon the two were looking over and poking the pegasus, who giggled when the pokes tickled her somtach and flanks.

“SNAILS! SNAILS!” Snips cried out in alarm, causing the green colt to rush to his colluge's side. His glance followed the blue hoof to where Snips was pointing. “Her thingy is missing!”

Scootaloo glanced down to see the two staring between her flanks, and blushed slightly. That place was private. “Girls don't have one,” she explained.

“Then how can you take anypony's temperature?” Snips asked, his head tilted like a confused puppy. Scootaloo only rolled her eyes at how dense these two actually were.

“Well, we can take her temperature for her, eh.” Snails replied, getting into position. Scootaloo gritted her teeth and braced herself for the inevitable insertion into her butt. Her eyes were closed, so she could only feel Snails moving around as he tried to get ready. She wondered what it felt like when she saw Big Mac and Braeburn do it in the barn, and now was her chance.

Snails thrust forward, and Scootaloo's eyes shot open in horror as pain tore through her flanks. That's not my butt! The green pony began thrusting blindly, remembering to push in and pull out like Scootaloo said. His already simple brain was addled with the awakening instinct to mate.

“I wanna take her temperature too!” Snips protested. Snails glanced over at the bounding blue colt and thought for a moment.

“You can take it in her mouth.” Snails replied, pointing with a hoof.

WHAT?! Scootaloo was afraid now. Forgoing all sense of toughness and attitude, the filly began thrashing and screaming. “NO! NO! NO!”

Snips and Snails were horrified by this sudden shift in behavior, as they thought Scootaloo actually liked this. Snails stopped and pulled back. He gasped in horror when he saw blood. Snips saw it too, and felt sick to his stomach. The two colts scrambled backwards, shaking their heads in disbelief as they clumsily turned and ran off.

Scootaloo got to her hooves, her legs shaking from the pain in her rear and other places, and coughing because of her violent sobs. “Jerks!” she muttered, looking over her shoulder at the retreating cowards. Wait till Princess Celestia hears about this.... but her thoughts paused when she remembered she was a part of the act to. She looked at the quiet expanse of the forest and sighed. For some strange reason, she felt more sadness than anger at the two. A strange hollow feeling in her heart. It wasn't out of love for those two, nor was it lack of any more attention. Her mind eventually settled on a definition. Garbage.

Sweetie Belle, meanwhile, was alone in the CMC clubhouse for the day. After her friends went their separate ways, she whiled away the hours pondering what they found out, as well as take some time to contemplate the obtuse yet disturbing meanings of Scootaloo's crayon art. She glanced up from a particularly red covered drawing when she heard familiar hoofsteps. Apple Bloom came bounding in, her head held high and a smile on her face. “So, what did you find out?” Sweetie asked, her eyes lit up with wonder at how Apple Bloom seemed to be carrying herself now.

“Ah just bucked with Spike! It was amazing!” she exclaimed, bounding even higher as she dove into the clubhouse, scattering the papers and other items around. “He's so cute! Ah feel like a big girl now!”

Sweetie Belle let this sink in for a moment before she smiled weakly and nodded. “Well, congratulations....I think....” This felt wrong to her still, and she couldn't place a hoof on rather it was out of fear or jealously. She wanted her friends to be happy, but now that Apple Bloom had experienced something more personal and enjoyable than getting a cutie mark, how could she ever hope to compete?

Another sound followed, weak and coughing. The two turned to see Scootaloo hobbling towards the clubhouse. The others knew something was terribly wrong, as they never seen Scootaloo cry before. At least not when she didn't need to.

“What the hay happened to you?!” Apple Bloom ran over to help the pegasus up.

“Now I know why Dash hates colts....” the filly groaned, collapsing onto the ground again. Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle didn't press further, instead volunteering to help give her a bath and talk it out if needed. Scootaloo smiled at her friends caring, but that didn't hide the feeling she still had in her heart.

“And that's what happened...” Minty concluded. Fluttershy was overjoyed that she was talking a lot more than she did when she first arrived. But the terrible incident related to her made her wish she hadn't heard anything.

“Well....that is sad...but...Pinkie isn't like that.” Fluttershy replied, pouring more tea. Minty nodded in response, staring at her newly acquired socks.

“I know she isn't. But....I don't know if I can forgive her...It's my fault for letting her do it anyway...” she was cut off when hooves grabbed her own, and she glanced up to see the yellow Pegasus staring at her. It wasn't the normally potent stare she was known for, but enough to get her attention.

“Listen here, Minty! What happened was an accident! Neither of you are to blame, especially not yourself!” Fluttershy's voice was firm yet still soothing and sweet. The right mix of being serious but not too mean. Minty was more surprised by this feat than the actual statement, but she sighed and looked back at her own tea.

“You think Pinkie will apologize?” she asked, glancing back up at the face which now wore an expression of worry.

“I'm sure she will. In fact, I KNOW she will! She's not that kind of pony.” Fluttershy nodded.

“Do you think I should forgive her?” Minty asked, not missing a beat. This made Fluttershy pause, and her eyes searched around for something to change the subject but to no avail. She sighed in defeat, and looked up at the mint pony.

“I don't know....”

Pole Dancing

“Rarity!” Twilight called, looking up at the open window that belonged to Rarity's bedroom. She grunted in frustration when there was no response. Night had began to set once again, but that was no excuse. “RARITY!” she cried louder, her lungs almost giving out. Finally a light came on, and the white unicorn emerged from the window, her face covered in green mud and cucumbers in her eyes. Her mane, done up in curlers, bobbed around as she looked frantically for the source of the screaming before remembering the slices on her eyes and removing them.

“Twilight? What's wrong?” she asked, concern in her voice. Twilight wouldn't be up so late, at least not outside, so it must be serious.

“We need to talk,” Twilight replied flatly, her eyes narrowing.

“Can't it wait until morning?” Rarity asked. “I need to get my beauty sleep!” She pointed a hoof to her face.

“No, it can't.” Twilight seethed through gritted teeth. “This is serious, Rarity!”

Rarity left the window and turned off the light. Twilight was about to object when the front door opened. “Well, in that case, come on in.”

Twilight stared into her coffee mug as she tried to piece together how she was going to break this news. Rarity's blue eyes watched with intensity as she visualized the gears turning in Twilight's mind. Finally, the purple unicorn sighed and looked up, her eyes serious but showing a sadness. “I talked to Pinkie Pie...”

Rarity's eyes widened at this news as she sipped her own coffee. She hadn't seen or heard from Pinkie since that strange out of character moment she witnessed. “Oh, do tell me what's wrong, dear,” she waved a hoof.

“If....if she can't find forgiveness,” Twilight glanced away, focusing on the elaborate wall designs, “she'll never forgive herself...” her gaze returned to her coffee. “She's already in serious trouble as it is.”

“Whatever do you mean?” Rarity placed a hoof on her chest as if trying to still her heart. Her fear was justified if Pinkie returning that gag was any indication of her behavior.

“Well...Pinkie kind of....” this was going to be hard to say. “raped Minty...” Twilight's face was visibly pained when she spoke that word.

“You're kidding, right?” Rarity shook her head sending her curls bobbing frantically, eyes widened in terror. “She would never do something like that!”

“She did it because she was caught up in the moment, because of one of your toys that she didn't get instruction on how to properly use!” Twilight snapped, pointing an accusing hoof at Rarity, who recoiled slightly in shock.

“Are you saying....that I'm an accessory to this?” Rarity's mouth hung agape as she tried to process this.

“I don't think you are,” Twilight looked back at her mug once more. “But pray that Celestia thinks the same way.” She didn't really know how Equestrian law worked on such crimes, since they never really were a problem. Such things did exist, however, and she was certain the punishment wouldn't be very pleasant for either of them.

It was Rarity's turn to stare at her own mug, her face showing deep thought. “I...I just thought that I would be generous. Share the joy with others and make a little more money for the shop,” she frowned. “I had no idea it would hurt anypony...Why, just tonight I sold Bonbon something!” Rarity's expression perked up for a moment when she recalled that. Bonbon was so happy, and even said that she intended to try something else to repay Lyra.

Twilight frowned. She didn't want to take away Rarity's business, nor did she want to lose her or her friends. “The only recourse for this is for you to accompany Pinkie tomorrow, and make amends to Minty,” she spoke calmly, thumping a hoof lightly on the table to signify her finality on the affair.

Rarity nodded in agreement. “Will we still be punished?” She cocked her head, pouting slightly like Twilight had any power to convince Celestia otherwise. Twilight saw this expression, and shook her head.

“It might make it less severe,” she replied with a long sigh. Why do you ponies always put me into these messes?

“Then...I will accompany her and apologize as well,” Rarity bowed her head. “It's the only ladylike thing to do.”

Bonbon couldn't wait much longer. She looked up from her book to stare at the door of their cottage like the act would make time pass faster. Lyra was never this late from a performance, if her lamenting about the crowd size was anything to go by. The thought of her mate having so few adoring fans made her frown, but she quickly smiled. She was the true love of Lyra's life, and any other pony would be lucky to have her. She returned to her trashy novel when the door finally opened and Lyra sulked in.

“What happened dear?!” Bonbon was quick to rush to her lover's side and offer comfort. She could see the sadness in Lyra's eyes.

The green unicorn glanced up, into those cyan eyes filled with worry for her. She muster a fake smile. “Nothing...just...” her smile dropped as she looked at the floor. “It was another poor turnout.”

Bonbon frowned. “Well, at least Sonata was there, right?” She felt kind of guilty for not being able to make it due to working late, but she knew Lyra understood. There will be plenty of quality time tonight.

“Yeah,” Lyra smiled, this time genuine. “She's such an adorable girl! I'm glad I could be an inspiration to at least somepony.”

“You're an inspiration to more than you know. You just don't see them, probably because they're too nervous to see you.” Bonbon playfully jabbed Lyra's side, eliciting a giggle from the two as they locked eyes once more.

“So, what's for dinner?” the green unicorn asked, her stomach rumbling breaking the romantic silence.

“I made something special! To celebrate tonight!” Bonbon trotted off to the kitchen, a spring in her step.

“Tonight? What's tonight?” Lyra asked, quirking a brow. Her wandering eyes then fell onto the bag from Rarity's on the table, and a smile crossed her lips. She silently crept into the kitchen, stopping to admire the flank in front of her, the blue and pink tail swaying happily as she set to work. Bonbon was a bit pudgy from all the candy she ate at work, but Lyra didn't mind. In fact, she thought it kind of cute. A few more silent steps, and Lyra was now right behind her, smiling as she stood on her hind hooves.

Bonbon's humming was cut off by a small yelp of surprise when she felt hooves around her waist. “Lyra, you naughty filly! At least have dinner first!” She looked over her shoulder at the pony straddling her and gave a smile, her eyes narrowed.

“How about I take care of the rest of dinner? After all, it's your time to shine tonight,” she leaned forward and their lips met in a passionate kiss. Bonbon smiled and gently wiggled free of Lyra's grasp, walking back into the living room. Lyra glanced over at the pots of boiling water on the stove, and realized she didn't know what was being made. Rolling her eyes, she glanced over her shoulder. “Bonbon, dear? What are we having for dinner?”

The dinner of vegetarian spaghetti was delicious if Lyra could say so herself. She wasn't one to brag however, and remained quiet and humble as Bonbon relished her cooking. She blushed slightly when Bonbon let out an orgasmic moan at the flavor of a particular bite. “Lyra, darling, you've outdone yourself!”

“Did we, uh...drink all of the wine?” Lyra asked, trying not to get to excited at the table, lest she ruin the nice cushion. Too late.

“Really? You're getting to be as bad as Berry Punch! Yes we drank all of the wine, but I want you sober anyway to appreciate what I've got in store.” Bonbon smiled again and continued eating. Lyra glanced away, her golden eyes wandering as she tried to place why she was always so nervous. She never suffered from this extreme of nervosa from performing for crowds. Another playful moan from Bonbon as she helped herself snapped Lyra from her thoughts, and she blushed again, feeling the small puddle forming under her on the cushion. What is she planning? A few casual glances from her plate caused her to notice that Bonbon was staring at her, a mischievous grin.

“I'm serious, you really outdid yourself!” Bonbon repeated as she lie on the bed, clutching her stuffed belly with her hooves. “I normally don't eat that much.”

Lyra emerged from the bathroom, having brushed her teeth thoroughly to remove the smell of garlic on her breath. That wouldn't be very pleasant in the heat of the moment. She pulled herself up onto the bed, making Bonbon squirm humorously as the contents of her stomach bounced around, making a sickly look appear on the earth pony's face. Lyra giggled as she lay down beside her, her legs bracing Bonbon's flank she cuddled closer. “So, what's the plan for tonight?” The whisper of hot breath sent a chill down Bonbon's spine, and she shuddered, her eyes snapped open when she felt a tug on her ear.

“Well....the way you used your horn the last time...” Bonbon blushed, “It got me to thinking that it could be used for other...things....”

“Really?” Lyra asked, cuddling even closer still, her wetness rubbing on her lover's thigh. “Like what?” She played a hoof over Bonbon's chest, then lower still to her slightly bulging stomach.

“Well...” Bonbon sat up on the bed and placed a pillow against the headboard, giving it a tap with her hoof to signal Lyra to lie upon it. The green pony pressed her back against the cool fabric, an eyebrow raised at what was going to happen. “Now close your eyes.” Lyra smirked as she did so, figuring that she would be told to open them and see Bonbon wearing some ridiculous fake horn on her head in an attempt to return the experience. After a few minuets however, she frowned in confusion at the shifting weight next to her, the sudden weight against the side of her head, and the wetness on her shoulder. Her eyes wanted to snap open and see what in Equestria she was doing, but she decided against it as she awaited this surprise.

Bonbon took a moment to admire the elegance of the structure before her. The fluted horn was never really much more than a tool to either of them until that faithful night. But now, she looked at it in a very different perspective. She shifted a bit closer, her chest pressing against Lyra's ear, allowing the pony to hear her rapid heartbeat. Lyra shifted a bit at the sudden pain in her shoulders, but remained still, a smile across her face as she realized what was about to happen. She started slow at first, licking at the tip. Lyra jolted, a sudden feeling shooting down her spine. Her eyes were open now, and she glanced over to get a clear view of the wetness smearing against her shoulder. The smell was intoxicating, sitrring her own needs as she began to reach a hoof down to the depths between her own flanks. Another lap at the tip eliminated the need for that as her hoof froze involuntarily with the rest of her body. She had no idea the horn was that sensitive.

The earth pony began to pick up the pace a bit, getting a feel for how much she could take in without choking. Her mouth slid down the shaft, more moans from Lyra as her tongue scrapped against the ridges on her way back up. Each bob of her head took her lower and lower until her lips were touching the base of the horn. She swirled her tongue around the bone, magic sparks tingling her tongue. Lyra's eyes had rolled to the back of her head, her own hoof uncosciously grinding at the wetness between her flanks. Every lick on her horn sent more pleasure through her as the wetness on her shoulder began to drip furiously. Bonbon could feel the heat emitting from the horn and let off just in time for a small spurt of sparks to fly out. Lyra began shaking as the horn symbolized her orgasm, her hoof prodding in a vain attempt to prolong the pleasure even further. Bonbon continued to grind against Lyra's shoulder, the shuddering muscles of her lover driving her closer to her own conclusion. Her head threw back as she let out a short yelp, her wetness soaking Lyra's shoulder and down her leg. Bonbon almost fell over backwards as Lyra collapsed, her shoulder no longer supporting the earth pony. She directed her weight to fall and land across Lyra's stomach, both gulping for air as they lie in silence.

“So...” Lyra panted, glancing down at the sopping mess on top of her. “What was in the bag?”

Bonbon looked away and blushed, closing her eyes. “A fake horn...”

After another moment of silence, they both began to giggle.

Fluttershy lie down next to Minty and sighed contentedly. It was such a relief to see the pony back in good spirits. But it troubled her on whose side to take in this affair. She didn't want Minty to think she turned on her, nor did she want to lose Pinkie as a friend for getting her in trouble. Biting her lip at this tough decision, she looked over to see Minty was staring at her.

“Are you okay?” She asked, violet eyes locking with cyan. Fluttershy nodded weakly. “I didn't want to get anypony else involved. If....if you don't want to choose, I understand...”

“No...I believe you...but I also believe in Pinkie. I know you do too.” Fluttershy nodded knowingly.

“I shouldn't impose anymore. I'm sorry.” Minty tried to leave but a yellow leg around her withers stopped her from rising up. She looked back at the Pegasus, who now had her stare. It wasn't the normal stare, but potent enough to get Minty's attention.

“I told you, it's nopony's fault. Now relax. Pinkie will be here tomorrow to make amends, and I want you to do what you think is right.” Fluttershy sounded wise beyond her years, but the advice was sound. The mint pony nodded in defeat and reclaimed her spot on the floor. Her longing glance at the door of the cottage was cut off by a nibble at her ear, and she closed her eyes and smiled in content once more.

The Dragon In The Room

Twilight Sparkle sighed to herself as she lie in bed, staring at the ceiling. She was glad she got Rarity to admit she was in the wrong, and very glad that she volunteered to accompany Pinkie to apologize to Minty about the whole thing. Part of her hoped for the best outcome there could be out of this whole sordid affair. However, she wasn't so gullible as to believe it would be that simple. Fluttershy may have broken through Minty's defenses, but the wounds were still there.

With a sigh she reached a hoof under her pillow and found one of those novels she borrowed from Rarity. She pulled it out and began to flip through it with her magic, finding her jealously at the females in the story returning as she lamented the fact she had the bed all to herself. She sat up and peered over the foot of the bed, checking to see if Spike was indeed asleep. He had a goofy smile on his face, no doubt dreaming about being Rarity's knight in shining armor. She rolled her eyes at the hopeless romantic when something faint caught her attention.

“Oh, Apple Bloom....” Spike muttered to himself, rolling over just as Twilight shot a surprised glance in his direction, otherwise she would've seen the dragon was excited about something in particular.

Well, that's new... Twilight blushed. She didn't like keeping secrets, as she was terrible at it. Nor did she like eavesdropping on her friends, especially her little brother. But here he was, proclaiming love for a filly no older than he. For some strange reason, this intimate moment served to make Twilight more flustered, as she felt that all too familiar heat below. She stared at the sleeping dragon as her hoof began to subconsciously slide below the blanket, parting her outer lips as she let out a small moan of pleasure. Her eyes shot open and hoof retreated as she stared intently at the dragon, hoping she didn't wake him. WHAT AM I DOING?! she scolded herself. He's my little brother! I can't look at him like that.....can I? She bit her lip as these strange thoughts began to bubble in her stomach. If Spike was indeed going out with Apple Bloom, the last thing she wanted was for him to be unfaithful to satisfy her own needs. Then again, what she didn't know.....

NO! Twilight shook her head violently. Sure I'm desperate for a guy. But am I honestly THAT desperate? At least Spike was someone she knew loved her in return, and could trust not to use or abuse her. Her gaze fell back on the dragon and she let out a frustrated sigh. You're lucky I'm gonna to be busy tomorrow. With a final huff that she wasn't going to get to sleep in this condition, she used her magic to levitate the bag from under her bed, quietly slid out from under the covers, and trotted towards the bathroom. With a soft click of the door, she was alone once again in her fortress of solitude.

She clicked on the light and blinked a few times as her eyes adjusted. Smirking at her reflection showing her messy mane, she took a seat upon the toilet, her hind legs spread. She levitated the toy from the bag, ensuring that she was going to get it in the proper opening this time. After examining it a bit further, she gripped it in her hooves and slowly brought it to her mouth. She froze when she realized where it had been, then got up and began washing it off in the sink. Idiot...

The sound of running water banging in the pipes woke Spike from his slumber, which made him quickly realize that he had business he needed to tend to. He blushed as the thoughts of Apple Bloom continued to play in his head, his smile turning into a frown as he craved release. He didn't notice Twilight was gone as he headed towards the bathroom, which made him frown in confusion when he encountered the locked door. The water had stopped running so he decided to wait for Twilight to finish and exit. After a few more minuets, nothing happened and he was still stranded. He folded his arms and fumed at this turn of events, but vowed not to go anywhere so as not to miss the next opening.

Twilight had taken her place back upon the toilet, slowly bringing the newly clean toy to her mouth as she licked at the tip. Still no flavor, but she didn't care as she slowly took in the length, moaning slightly at the feeling. Her hoof returned to the ministrations she was performing earlier, the pointed tip hammering upon the fleshy nub as she shivered from the jolts emitting from her joy buzzer. Spike could hear noises but couldn't for the life of him figure out what was going on. He recalled the last time Twilight locked herself in the bathroom, but it wasn't that time of season yet. He pressed a curious ear to the door and held his breath, blushing as he felt perverted for spying on his big sister. After his experience with Apple Bloom, he hadn't been thinking straight anyway, and now he felt this was a good a time as any to 'take notes' as it were, so he would be prepared for their next get together.

The toy slid from Twilight's muzzle with a lewd sound, making her blush slightly as she lowered it to the burning fire between her flanks. She paused long enough to get her thoughts in order this time, deciding to take the manual route instead of using her magic. Once she was positive she was in the right opening, she pressed it forward, a loud gasp as she parted around the wide toy. Her cheeks were on fire as she relished the feeling of being filled, the design of the toy making sure to rub against her clit as it went in further. So this is what it feels like... she thought, her mind drifting back to those filthy novels. Words didn't do the experience justice as her hoof began thrusting the toy in and out, eliciting mouthed swears and short breaths.

Spike found himself blushing madly as he heard the noises from within the porcelain tomb. His paw began reaching down to his own length, remembering why he was here to begin with. Part of him felt kind of dirty for doing this to the sounds of his own surrogate sister. Then again, they were just siblings in concept only. Twilight had been so good to him, raising him like a son but loving him like a brother. Maybe...maybe their relationship could be something more. He frowned when he thought of Apple Bloom and how she might react. Could he bring himself to be a stud about town?

Twilight began reaching her climax, her hoof working faster than before as she began gulping down the air like she was drowning. She felt her inner walls gripping the toy, trying to pull it deeper on their own accord, and finally her orgasm struck, tearing through every nerve in her body. Her cheeks burned as her back arched to the point she almost slid off of the toilet. Her hind legs kicked wildly at the air, twitching in time with her inner walls as her hoof became soaked with nectar. Her other hoof found her nipples and began rubbing them out of sheer bliss, her mind unaware she was even doing such a task. Her tongue hung from her mouth as a final wave came through, her hips thrusting forward as she cried out. “OH! SPIKE!”

Spike fell over backwards at the shouting of his name, staring dumbly at the door. Did that just happen? He heard hooves shuffling around in the bathroom, and quickly scrambled back to his bed, pulling the blankets up as high as he could, and crushing his eyes shut in an attempt to be asleep. He heard the bathroom door open, heard the light shut off. Hoofsteps back to the bed nearby as the blushing unicorn climbed back under the covers, scolding hereslf at such an outburst. She took one last glance at the dragon, who seemed to be breathing faster, and sighed. Good, still asleep. That would've been awkward.

She lie back, sinking into her pillow, her vision still fuzzy as her body began to come down. How was she going to contend with this? With a final yawn, she closed her eyes and drifted off to a blissful sleep.

The next morning came and went off without a hitch, except for the strange silence that hung in the air of the kitchen as Spike and Twilight stared at each other in some sort of unspoken contest. Both of them knew things that could utterly destroy the other, but neither of them dared speak of their forbidden knowledge. Their troubled eyes locked more than once as thoughts of does he/she know?! cycled through their addled brains. Twilight finally broke the silence with a loud sigh. She looked terrible, since she didn't get much sleep last night, for obvious reasons. “Today is the day Pinkie and Rarity apologize to Minty. I hope it goes well.” A loud yawn escaped her lips, and she quickly placed a hoof over her mouth in embarrassment.

“You sound tired. Didn't sleep well last night?” Spike asked, quirking a brow.

“Well, it was kind of hard when a certain dragon was talking in his sleep.” Twilight smirked. She saw Spike freeze and stare at her, his green eyes filled with sudden horror. “I swear, I've never heard Rarity's name mentioned so many times,” the unicorn finished, waving a passive hoof. She glanced at Spike, who visibly relaxed his tense muscles.

“Yeah...well....you know how it is....” Spike muttered, thankful that was as far as his nocturnal emissions went. “I was worried about you last night, too. I thought you were getting sick in the bathroom.”

It was Twilight's turn to freeze now, her eyes darting around for anything to change the subject, or at least a quick exit from the room. The dragon didn't let on that he knew anything, his poker face showing genuine concern instead of that grin one gets when somepony was caught in a lie. “Well, I thought I was going to, but I didn't. Cold weather and all,” she closed her eyes and nodded, more out of self confirmation than Spike buying it. The dragon only nodded, his concern melting away. Twilight couldn't tell if that was genuine, but figured it sweet nonetheless. She sighed at the thought that this elephant in the room would have to be dealt with eventually. Both of them obviously knew what the other was hiding, which made all the acting dumb even more unbearable. Twilight wanted to clear the air right then and there, but decided against it on the off chance Spike really was oblivious to last night's events.

A knock on the front door provided the excuse she needed to leave the oppressive kitchen and Spike's constant stare. Twilight trotted to the front door and opened it to see Rarity and Pinkie standing before her. Rarity had done herself up to look nice for the occasion, her mane more coiffed than usual. Pinkie just pawed at the ground with a nervous hoof, dreading the potential outcome this could have.

“Darling, you look beat! Didn't you get any sleep last night?” Rarity asked, her sapphire eyes quickly noticing the bags under the eyes of her fellow unicorn.

“Not really,” Twilight blushed. “Guess I was just worried about today, ya know?” She mustered a half-hearted smile. Rarity stared blankly at the purple unicorn before a knowing smile crossed her face and she nodded in agreement.

“I understand dear,” she waved a hoof. “I for one was also on pins and needles after our talk last night. I do hope this goes well, for Pinkie's sake,” she glanced over that the pink earth pony, who had remained uncharacteristically quiet the whole time.

“Don't worry, Pinkie....If Minty is a true friend, she will understand.” Twilight reassured, patting Pinkie on the back.

“I hope so...” Pinkie frowned.

A Pony's Regret

After some helpful input and some rethinking, Scootaloo's chapter has now been re-worked to fit more in line with the rest of the story, but is no less traumatic. ENJOY!

The wait was agonizing.

Twilight didn't know what was taking them so long, but each passing minute added another brick to the already heavy load of the two guilty ponies. Rarity's mane had started to slowly become unhinged, her stress more from trying to keep Pinkie Pie from bolting off than her own apology at the moment. The look in the party pony's eyes was one of pure fear. Fear of rejection, of self loathing, of loneliness. Twilight remembered that look in her eyes at Pinkie's birthday party. She hoped to never see it again.

The door finally opened all to slowly for the waiting trio. Fluttershy emerged and shut the door almost completely behind her, those cyan eyes giving her three friends a mild form of the stare she was known for. “I've gotten Minty to talk, and I know what happened. She's in a much better mood, but still fragile,” she looked at Pinkie. “Be careful what you say to her.”

Pinkie nodded slowly, never taking her eyes off the ground. Fluttershy nodded in agreement, and let the three inside. Twilight's breathing became short as she felt the air inside was more oppressive than outside, thick with guilt and tension. Minty sat at the living room table, eyes fixed on the wall in front of her. She didn't feel like making eye contact with Pinkie, which made the pink pony shrink back even more. Rarity sighed and gently tapped her forward with her horn until she was sitting across from her best friend.

“Minty...I'm...I'm sorry for what I did to you. That's not the kind of pony I am. I.... just wanted us to have fun and....I'm sorry.....” Pinkie felt tears sting her eyes.

“I am sorry as well, Minty,” Rarity chimed in, appearing behind the sniffling earth pony. “If I had not of sold Pinkie that offending item, neigh, if I had not been foalish enough to not explain proper use, none of this would have happened.”

Minty’s sorrowful violet eyes stared at the pony she once called a friend for the longest time, searching for any hint of sincerity in those words she barely heard. Could she bring herself to forgive her? Twilight was nervously fidgeting her hooves, biting her lip as she held out for the fateful answer. With a deep breath, Pinkie’s world shattered.

“No..”

Fluttershy was horrified. She didn’t want to choose sides in all of this, but the sight of Pinkie in tears drew the line. She opened her mouth, about to protest, when Minty began talking again.

“Pinkie, I understand that what happened was an accident. I accept your apology, but...I just can't forgive you.” she shook her head sadly. “You understand, don't you?”

The pink pony nodded. “I really am sorry, Minty....are....are we still friends?” Pinkie began fumbling her hooves.

Minty nodded slowly, glancing away from the terrible sight of the happiest pony in Equestria now a whimpering heap.

Twilight was about to cry herself when she felt the reassuring hoof of Rarity across her back. “Don't worry, Twilight. It'll take Pinkie a while to earn Minty's trust again, but I know she can do it.” That didn't make her feel any better about the outcome. Pinkie still had her friend, but now had a long road ahead of her. In a way, she understood Pinkie's pain, as she had to earn her own friends back at one point.

In a surprising move, Minty had worked up the courage to at least lean forward and give Pinkie a hug. Fluttershy nodded, though her eyes shown she was also unhappy about the conclusion that took place. Twilight thought to herself that perhaps it was too optimistic to think something like this could easily be forgiven with a simple apology. Pinkie, however, was learning a new lesson in humility and responsibility. Twilight made a note to include that in her friendship report the next time around.

“Want to go do something...?” Pinkie asked, her demeanor returning somewhat. Twilight noticed as Minty looked away, towards Fluttershy, as if she were a foal asking her mother for permission. That's strange.

After a few seconds of silence, the green pony shook her head. “I....I still need some time to think. Maybe later, okay?” she mustered a smile.

“Okay....thank you, Minty. I promise, no more games...” Pinkie did all the motions for her Pinkie Pie Swear then rose from the table and joined her friends. Twilight quirked a brow at Minty's behavior, but shook it off in favor of the task at hand. Pinkie needed comforting, otherwise she might revert.

Spike was alone in the library. He had wished Twilight the best of luck with helping Pinkie, but didn't want to come along for what he felt was a 'private matter'. He wasn't really kept in the loop to begin with, so figured it was none of his business. After checking himself in the mirror to make sure the spines on his head were straight, he adjusted his garish looking bow tie and grabbed the flowers he had picked from outside. No harm would come from visiting Apple Bloom and it would get his mind off the tension from this morning. He idly walked along the main thoroughfare as his mind wandered between if he should ease Twilight's tensions by submitting an admission and let her down gently, or if he should just keep playing dumb and let her drop it on her own accord. He knew Twilight would never want to impose on his relationship with Apple Bloom, but she didn't even know about that. So many secrets... Spike lamented as he tried to remember the path to the CMC clubhouse.

He neared the clubhouse, seeing that Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle were occupied with a very sad looking Scootaloo. “What's going on?” he asked, worry in his voice as he approached the three.

“Scootaloo had a bad experience,” Sweetie Belle explained, rubbing a comforting hoof on the pegsai's back.

“What happened?” Spike walked up to the orange filly and began offering his own comforting pats on her head.

“She don't want to talk about it, but ah think ah know what happened.” Apple Bloom spoke up. Spike didn't notice she was right beside him until she began leaning into him slightly, a smirk on her face as her eyes cast a sidelong glance at him. He blushed slightly, but the gravity of the situation cleared that away. “Are those flowers for me?”

“Huh?” Spike snapped from his thoughts, glancing at the flowers in his hands. He blinked a few times then held them up to her. “Uh...yeah.”

“Aww! That's sweet!” Apple Bloom smiled. She ate one of them right out of his hand, giving him a seductive wink.

Scootaloo was calming down, her face showing disgust at what she saw between the dragon and her friend. She wanted no part of love right now. She hated this feeling of showing weakness, and hated even more that those two idiots violated her without even realizing it, or even an apology. She gritted her teeth at the thoughts of revenge swirling through her brain.

“Apple Bloom, can I talk to you a minute?” Spike asked, glancing at the other two to make sure there was no suspicions. The filly nodded and they walked a safe distance away from earshot, Apple Bloom looking at Spike with a mix of anticipation for more fun and worry for bad news. “I....” he began, swallowing. “I think Twilight might be developing a crush on me....”

Apple Bloom blinked for a moment before a smile spread across her face. “Awww, Spike. You're such a stud!” Spike was taken aback by this reaction, figuring that she would at least be jealous or upset. But here she was, praising him for being so adorable that no pony can resist him.

“That's the thing. I want to be with you. But I don't want Twilight to feel bad that she might get between us.” Spike explained, fumbling with his claws as he began to blush.

“Do you like her in that way?” the filly asked, tilting her head.

Spike jerked his head to look at the filly, eyes wide in fright. “Of course not! She's like a sister to me! I mean, that would be just, well....weird....” Spike sighed. “But, I don't want to break her heart either. I saw those novels she reads. I think she wants me because she can't find a guy.” DO I like her like that.... his mind began to wander.

“Well shoot! We can find her a guy!” Apple Bloom perked up. “In fact, ah know just the pony! Cutie Mark Crusaders Dating Service!” she proclaimed, ready to run and tell her friends about their sudden business opportunity.

“I don't want to be any trouble.” Spike shook his head, trying to decline her offer. He pushed back as hard as he could to keep the filly in place until she relented.

“Aw it ain't nutthin! Ah'll send a letter no problem!” Apple Bloom broke free and bounded off to get what she needed, leaving Spike to stand in utter shock at what he had just done. On the one hoof, he just did his 'sister' a big favor. On the other, well, it wasn't that he didn't trust Apple Bloom's judgement, but he just felt unsettled by the whole thing. Apple Bloom then bounded back and grabbed Spike's tail in his teeth, pulling him into the clubhouse.

Rarity was back in her shop, staring at the now ornate door that blocked the room full of forbidden objects. Had her business venture really just caused that mess back there? A brief thought crossed her mind as she pondered to end her business venture. Well, that would probably make Pinkie feel worse because she hurt my business, she shook her head. That option wouldn't be viable. No more guilt.

The unicorn decided that she did indeed need a better education on how these devices worked, or at least some personal experience with them.

But who to ask? Who would be so eager as to help try out and learn how these things worked so she was no longer lying to her customers?

“IDDEEEAAA!” she sang out to herself, a hoof of triumph in the air. She knew just the pony to help her out with such things.

She rushed over to her work table and began to prepare a scroll for a friend she had known all her life. Rarity's false accent and obsession with being part of the Canterlot elite was only a mask to hide the fact that she was not a pure unicorn. Her sire was an earth pony, but he did have connections. She had known this family friend all her life, which made them the perfect unexpected match when she was of age. Rarity thought for a moment about what to say, knowing that it didn't matter because they would come anyway. In fact, this friend already knew about the objects here, but only tried a few in their first visit. Surely they would be hungry for more, schedule permitting of course.

Taking quill to parchment with her magic, Rarity began her message.

“Dear....Mayor Mare...”

“Minty...” Fluttershy called, her voice almost a whisper. “Did you mean that when you said you and Pinkie were still friends?”

Minty nodded, her eyes wet from fresh tears as she thought about what had happened. “We can still be friends, but I can't trust her anymore. At least, not now.”

Fluttershy nodded in understanding. “So will you be going back to Fillydelphia?”

“Actually, I kind of like it here.” Minty replied.

“So you're moving to Ponyville?”

“No....I like it here” The yellow pegasus blinked in confusion. Minty lay down next to her on the floor and sighed. “You're so nice to me. I like you...”

Fluttershy's face instantly turned crimson as she looked away, hiding behind her mane. She hesitated on how to approach this, her cyan eyes looking around as her mind processed what had happened. “Minty....did you....understand what Pinkie was doing to you?”

The green pony shook her head. “I was sheltered when I was young. I know what sex is, but not much else. Is....is that what Pinkie was trying to do to me?” She looked at the pegasus still in hiding, her stare forcing Fluttershy to reply.

Fluttershy jerked around to look at Minty, eyes wide. “No! Well...yes, but she was doing it wrong...” her voice trailed off.

“So what's the right way?” Minty tilted her head.

Fluttershy felt her blush grow hotter.

Toasted Apples (Season 2 Premier)

Disclaimer: Contains consensual minors and proof I'm not foalin' around this time!

The sun was shining brightly over Ponyville, illuminating the changing leaves of the coming fall and providing just a touch of warmth to the otherwise frigid air. The pegasi, led by the ever present Rainbow Dash, had ensured a clear day today to help with any last minute harvesting that needed to be finished before the frost set in. Schedules said that a big winter snow was planned eventually, so food needed to be stored while it was available.

Pacing the kitchen of her library home, Twilight Sparkle was too lost in thought to appreciate this beautiful day. Hooves tapped in a steady rhythm as the unicorn trotted back and forth, keeping the circulation to her brain going as it puzzled its way through another conundrum. Twilight paused to take stock of the current situation once more, parsing out the details she already knew. Currently, Pinkie Pie was safely locked in the basement of the library, on the run from a terrible crime she didn't commit. The townsponies were reacting surprisingly calm about the whole situation, but Twilight surmised that was only because they couldn't find the pink pony in question.

Twilight knew to take her friends feelings seriously, and this was as serious as it got. Crimes of this magnitude were so rare in occurrence that some believed them to be old pony tales created as warnings of what dangers lurked in the darkness, and putting faith and trust in the hooves of strangers. Now Pinkie's fate was in Twilight's hooves, balanced only by the unicorn's unwavering trust in her friends. Sure Pinkie could be random at times, and Twilight had no doubt that the party pony was open minded in matters such as sex. But to outright violate a filly, on purpose...

NO! Twilight shook her head hard. Pinkie is incapable of hurting anypony! She paused again and glanced around. Well, at least when she's sane, she rolled her eyes. The best course of action would be to find out the identity of this filly and go from there. As Ponyville's Premier Private Investigative Pony, the unicorn was shouldered with even more responsibility to the town. Curse my intelligence for making me so valuable! she frowned.

But somewhere, deep in the back of her thoughts, was the lingering doubt that Rarity and her new stock had something to do with these current events. Be it a sick pony looking for a good time, or another accident, Rarity was assuredly involved somehow. That bothered Twilight more than anything. Her stomach growled, snapping her from her dark thoughts. I'll grab a bite to eat so I can think straight, then I'll be on my way! I'll have this case cracked in no time! Twilight proudly raised a hoof and tilted her head back in a confident pose. However her new-found pride was quickly deflated at the thought that all roads led back to Carousel Boutique. She also had a feeling that this was going to be more than she bargained for.

A knock at the front door caused Twilight to jump slightly, her head having drooped low enough she was sniffing the floor. The lavender pony made sure her mane was straightened, and walked out to greet her visitor. Standing at her door was a young colt, his blue eyes looking up and down as if he was sizing Twilight up.

“Can I help you?” Twilight asked, slightly annoyed that she had been interrupted from something important for nothing.

“Wow, Apple Bloom wasn't lying. You're pretty.” the tan pony said, shaking his curiously long mane from his eyes.

“Excuse me?” Twilight was confused now. “Wait, Apple Bloom?” This must be the boyfriend Spike was talking about. “Ummm, thanks?”

“So ummm, you uh. Want to go on a date or something?”

“Who are you, exactly?”

“Oh! My name's Caramel,” he held out a shaking hoof, his eyes filled with nervousness as he blushed. “You must be the Twilight Sparkle I heard so much about.”

“Yeeeeeeeah, about that.” Twilight took a deep breath, “See, I'm kind of super busy right now. So the date thing will have to wait, I really apologize you caught me at such a bad time, but duty calls!” Twilight gasped for air, as she had rattled all of that out in one breath. She slammed the door before Caramel could say anything else, and wiped the sweat from her brow. I hated to do that, but Pinkie is more important right now. She pressed an ear to the door, listening intently to ensure that the colt was gone. After the hoofsteps had faded, Twilight sighed in relief and turned towards the kitchen door where Spike was emerging.

“Spike, I'm going out! Keep an eye on Pinkie and give her whatever she needs....” Twilight paused for a moment, eyes wandering to the ceiling as she thought about that command. “Within reason, I mean.”

The dragon nodded, somewhat distracted. He was blushing, but Twilight didn't know why. Probably still embarrassed over me knowing about Apple Bloom, the unicorn nodded. “Oh,” she remembered. “Don't let her pressure the Doctor to take her back in time to stop this, okay?”

Spike quirked a brow at this command. Sure Pinkie was crazy, but she would never attempt something like that. Would she? “Uh...You got it, Twilight!” he beamed a fanged smile.

Twilight nodded in satisfaction and left, ready to get down to business and clear Pinkie's name. Wrapping her favorite orange and red striped scarf around her neck, the unicorn trotted off into town towards Sugarcube Corner. Something sweet will fill me up and get the mind working. The town was oddly quiet, the only sounds being the muffled gossip of the breaking news and a few mumbles of ponies who wanted to find Pinkie and do terrible things to her. Twilight understood their anger, but it was directed at the wrong pony. Celestia help me, you better not be part of this Pinkie...

Sugarcube Corner was crowded, but none of the ponies there wanted any treats. They wanted retribution. Some of the words Twilight heard made her fold her ears to her head and frown. She had no idea ponies could be that vindictive, even with a crime of such magnitude. Mrs. Cake did well in calming the crowd down, or at least convincing them Pinkie wasn't here. The ponies finally cleared out, leaving the lavender mare and Mrs. Cake alone among the gingerbread walls and candy cane pillars.

“Oh, Twilight!” Mrs. Cake exclaimed, a smile on her face. “If you're looking for Pinkie too, she's not here. But she could use a friend right now,” the smile on her face faded as she spoke those words.

“No, I'm actually here to get something to eat. I'm sure wherever Pinkie is, she's safe.” Twilight nodded, her face one of confidence.

“Well in that case, I feel much better.” Mrs. Cake sighed. “I was so worried. I've known Pinkie for a long time and she would never....”

“I know, Mrs. Cake.” Twilight raised a hoof. “As Ponyville's Premier Private Pony, I am going to get to the bottom of this mess!” She blinked as a thought came to her. “You...wouldn't happen to know anything that could help...would you?” Twilight cringed slightly, hoping that she wasn't prying or making Mrs. Cake uncomfortable.

“Unfortunately, no. All I know is what those ponies were saying, and I don't believe a word of it!” Mrs. Cake stomped a hoof on the wooden floor. “But thank you so much for helping her out, Twilight. It would mean a lot to her.”

Twilight nodded, a sheepish smile. I'm not making any promises.

“Now then dear, what would you like?” Mrs. Cake smiled once more now that her thoughts were at ease.

“I'll have...uh...” Twilight's eyes scanned the confection case. Everything looked good, but she didn't need all of it. “Give me, four double chocolate, chocolate cookies please.”

“Well, sounds like you've got quite the appetite today!” Mrs. Cake chuckled.

No, just depressed is all, “What can I say, you make good stuff!” Twilight shrugged, mustering a smile.

The library was quiet now that Twilight was gone. Occasionally in the eerie silence, Spike could barely hear Pinkie's sobs emanating from the basement. He wanted to go down and offer some words of comfort, but he was at a loss of what to say. Thus, Spike took to amusing himself in the kitchen, figuring that another batch of his famous Triple Decker Nut Crazy Vanilla Cream Cookies would lighten the mood. Pinkie was probably hungry too.

Digging around in the cabinet for a mixing bowl, he found his mind wandering to Apple Bloom again. That magical night they had shared together. Those memories made him blush as he felt himself getting aroused. He shook his head, trying to clear his mind for the time being.

Maybe he could invite her over or something? Keep him company while Twilight was off on her mission. He glanced up at the clock on the wall, noticing it was almost time for that mailmare to make her rounds. Setting the bowl on the counter, Spike fetched a scroll and began to write an invite to Apple Bloom. He quickly wrapped it in a ribbon and ran outside to put in the mailbox just as Ditzy landed nearby.

“Oh hey!” Spike exclaimed to the grey pegasus. “Could you deliver this to Apple Bloom please?” He tried not to snicker at the mare's unfortunate wandering eye. Ditzy smiled and took the scroll in her mouth, placing it carefully in her mailbag. “Thanks, Derpy.”

Ditzy frowned, turning her nose up into the air and closing her eyes. Her nostrils flared as she let out a snort of disappointment.

“OH! Hey, I'm sorry....force of habit.” Spike apologized, twiddling his claws. He glanced up to see Ditzy had managed to align both eyes to stare at him, a scowl on her face. Without saying a word, she flared her wings and flew off. She had a job to do, after all.

Idiot... Spike slapped a hand against his forehead. He marched back inside, shaking his head at his own stupidity. After he shut the front door, he cocked an ear to see if Pinkie was still sobbing.

Nothing.

Spike crept to the basement door, holding his breath for no reason as he reached for the handle. He cracked open the door and peered down the stairs. “Everything okay down there, Pinkie?” he asked, his voice echoing off the stone walls.

“Everything is fine! NO PUT THAT DOWN!” the Doctor cried out. “She seems to be in a better mood at the moment!”

“Oh...uh. I'm making some cookies. You guys want any?” Spike asked, confused at the racket that only grew in decibel level.

“You bet I want some cookies!” Pinkie yelled back, a giggle escaping her lips.

“Yes, sounds wonderful. Bring some tea to!” the Doctor added. “Pinkie STOP THAT!”

Spike rolled his eyes and shut the door. He paused for a moment as his eyes fell on the wooden door, amazed that it could muffle all that commotion. He shrugged it off as magic and went back into the kitchen.

An hour had passed, and Spike was pulling the pan of cookies from the oven, licking his lips at the delicious smell. He had outdone himself on this batch and silently vowed to get them sold at Sugarcube Corner someday.

A knock at the front door caught the dragon's attention, and he padded out into the foyer to answer. There was Apple Bloom, with a familiar bag clenched in her teeth. Rarity's Carousel Boutique it read. Spike quirked a brow at this, a smirk on his face.

“Where did you get that, young lady?” Spike asked, mocking a scolding tone as he put his hands on his hips.

Apple Bloom looked away and blushed as she placed the bag on the ground. “Ah found it in the barn. Looks like Applejack was gettin' in on it too!”

“Well, you're just in time for cookies. I could use the company with Twilight being gone and all.” Spike held the door for the filly, who walked in and headed towards the kitchen, following the smell of cookies. Spike followed, heading towards the counter to place the cookies on a plate and pour some milk. He glanced at the tea pot on the stove and remembered the duo in the basement.

“So where's Twilight? On a date with Caramel ah hope.” Apple Bloom smiled. “Can I pick em or what?” she winked seductively at Spike, who could only blush. He quickly turned his attention to filling the teapot and placing it on the stove.

“Actually, she kind of blew him off in favor of her mission.” Spike explained, not looking back for fear his blush would give the filly ideas, not that he didn't mind.

“Oh, that's too bad. Once Caramel sets his mind on something, he won't let it go. But he's pretty clumsy too sometimes. Ah'd hate to be Twilight right about now.” Apple Bloom frowned, setting the bag on the table and idly shuffling it with her hooves.

“What, is he going to be like Pinkie and pop out of nowhere to try and woo her?” the dragon asked, a smirk across his face.

“Wouldn't surprise me.” Apple Bloom giggled.

“Want to help me?” Spike asked, glancing at Apple Bloom. He noticed that her red curls seemed bouncier than usual, and her bow was pressed and vibrant instead of the usual dirty one she got from adventuring hard. Is she wearing eyeshadow?! Spike noticed, and felt the fire in his cheeks.

“Sure, Spike. What's going on?” the filly asked. She walked up next to Spike, and that was when he caught the scent of flowers. She's wearing perfume? Now he was anxious. Apple Bloom was obviously expecting something to happen, and Spike was more than happy to oblige. Later, of course. It's more fun to keep her waiting.

“Uh...” Spike stammered, trying to recollect his thoughts. “Pinkie and the Doctor are in the basement, and want some tea and cookies. Wanna help me carry everything?”

“Doctor? As in playing Doctor?” Apple Bloom asked, cocking a brow. “Maybe we can do that too.” She began nuzzling under Spike's chin, causing him to almost drop the teapot on her head.

“Uh....sure?” Spike shook his head. “I mean, uh...no he calls himself the Doctor! Nice guy, but a bit weird.”

“What's Pinkie doing down there?” Apple Bloom took a cookie off the plate and began chewing it slowly and sloppily. For some reason, this turned Spike on even more.

“Uh...she's hiding...”

“From what?” She took another cookie, noticing that her flirtations were working.

“She's in trouble...” Spike wiped the sweat from his brow.

“Over what?” Another cookie. Spike gritted his teeth as he tried to remain focused.

“The town thinks that she raped a filly....” the dragon blurted out.

Apple Bloom choked on the cookie, coughing violently. After she caught her breath, she snapped her golden eyes up to meet the dragon's green orbs. “That's awful!”

Spike was too flustered to notice Apple Bloom's eyes were giving away that she knew something. The blush in his cheeks grew hotter as the teapot whistled, right on cue. Both snapped their longing gazes to the offending pot, scowling that they were interrupted.

Twilight sat in Ponyville Park, trying in vain to quell her nerves with the cookies. They were rich, and a little too sweet for her taste. But they got the job done all the same. Her violet eyes scanned the area, absently looking for any signs of clues. The leaves of varying shades of red, orange, yellow, and gold littered the ground and wandered by in the chilly wind. There were few ponies in the park during winter, since all the trees were dead and bare, leaving not much to look at. Twilight hoped that she could find something at the scene of the crime to point her in a direction, lest she be wandering around town aimlessly chatting with random ponies.

Her mind drifted back to the library, and she bit her lip hoping that nopony would attempt to look in there for Pinkie. Their words were one thing, but Twilight didn't want to risk potential actions.

Twilight's wandering eyes now landed on Lyra and Bonbon. They were Ponyville's resident couple, and so adorable together. They also frequented the park for the view and to have a relaxing time together.

Aha! Witnesses! They come here all the time, maybe they saw something. Twilight smiled at this turnabout of fortune, and cantered casually up to the two, trying to look confident without raising suspicion of her true motives.

“Excuse me, could I ask you some questions?” Twilight approached, hoping that this little interview would get her somewhere. She had read enough mystery novels to know how the process worked in interrogating a suspect or a witness. The only difference was this wasn't black and white like Twilight had imagined the stories in her head. There was also a real life on the line, so she couldn't mess this up.

“Well, of course dear.” Bonbon replied, her voice having a New Jerneigh or lower Manehattan accent. It was a surprising contrast to her humble appearance for those who didn't know her.

“Well, there was a crime here, involving a filly. Were either of you here that day?” Twilight asked, cocking her head. Her ears perked up to make sure she didn't miss any detail.

Lyra and Bonbon looked at each other for a few seconds. The sea-green unicorn turned her gold eyes back to Twilight and sighed. She looked regretful. “I did see a filly here one day. She looked in pain, but I wasn't sure.” Lyra shook her head.

“What did she look like?” Twilight continued, smiling internally that she was getting somewhere.

“She was orange, with a purple mane.” Lyra replied. “Is she in trouble? Is she okay?”

Twilight frowned at the pain in Lyra's voice. Why didn't she help her? “Did she...” Twilight paused, praying that she would get no for an answer. There was only one pony she knew of with that distinct coloration. “...have wings?” she finished, swallowing the tension building in her throat.

Lyra nodded.

Oh Sweet Celestia.... Twilight tried not to show her shock. It couldn't be....no..... She knew a certain pegasus that was not going to take this news well at all.

Twilight hung her head and walked off without saying a word. This was worse than she thought. But at least she had a lead. Poor Scootaloo was probably huddled up somewhere, broken and terrified. She needed somepony's help, and that pony was Twilight Sparkle. But she had a case to solve. No, Scootaloo needed a more personal touch. Twilight had to find Rainbow Dash.

Nodding to herself, she searched the sky for any traces of a rainbow streak. Dash was probably still tending to the weather duties for the big snow, but that didn't mean she was hard to find. Breaking the news to her, that would be the difficult thing. Even though Dash didn't show it, she loved Scootaloo like a sister, and always wanted what was best for her.

Yes, if anyone can help Scootaloo heal, it's Rainbow Dash.

“That Doctor fella is pretty funny.” Apple Bloom spoke as her and Spike emerged from the basement. “What were all those parts all over the floor?”

“Don't know, don't care.” Spike replied, heading back to the kitchen. Apple Bloom followed, her face showing worry that Spike didn't notice her makeup of perfume.

“Spike, have you been ignorin' me?”

The dragon smirked, but lost it as he turned to face the filly.

“No. You look beautiful.” Spike stammered.

Apple Bloom trotted up and planted a kiss on Spike's lips. “Wanna try out what I found?”

“Uh....sure?”

Apple Bloom smiled, and rushed over to the bag, rattling around until she produced the items inside.

“It that a.....dog leash and a riding crop?” Spike asked, pointing and quirking a brow. Apple Bloom already had the leash rope in her teeth, giving it a practiced twirl that she learned from Applejack. With a light toss, the leash landed around Spike's neck. The dragon's eyes widened in horror as he was violently yanked forward and right into Apple Bloom's puckered lips. It was forceful, but at the same time, exhilarating. Spike began sweating even more now, his hands gripping the sides of Apple Bloom's face as their tongues began to exchange laps at each other. Both had their eyes closed, lost in the sheer bliss of the moment. Spike could taste cookie residue and apple juice, and it was wonderful.

After a few minuets, Apple Bloom pulled away, her face as red as her mane. “Let's go upstairs.”

“What? But where would we...ya know?”

Apple Bloom smiled. “Ya got a bed, silly!”

“My bed is just a basket. It's too small.” Spike shook his head slowly. This was a buzzkill.

“What about Twilight's?” Apple Bloom asked, her voice to innocent for her own good.

Spike's eyes widened in terror. Wouldn't that be crossing the line? She doesn't care about our relationship, but....in her bed?! Before the dragon could object, he was reminded of the leash around his neck as he was pulled up the stairs by one strong filly.

Apple Bloom made her way to the ladder leading up to Twilight's bed and began to climb. She pulled on the leash enough to get Spike to follow, unless he wanted to be lynched, which the dragon did begrudgingly. This had better be worth it.

“You said Twilight was gone for awhile, an we can wash the sheets when we're done.” Apple Bloom laid out her plan, as well as herself onto the bed. Spike made it to the top of the ladder to be greeted with the sight of the filly on her side, hind legs parted ever so slightly to give just a peek at that barely visible pencil line between her flanks. Spike almost fell off the ladder as he felt the heat in his cheeks threaten to burst out of his nose in a spray of blood.

Apple Bloom chuckled at this expression, dropping the leash rope from her teeth as she moved towards the window to give Spike room. The dragon eagerly scrambled onto the mattress, laying down on his back. Placing a hoof across his chest and pulling him closer, the smell of her perfume now overwhelmed Spike as their lips met once more. Tongues soon escaped their confines and explored around each others faces. Apple Bloom shuddered at the feeling of the forked tongue sliding along her face, matting her coat. Her own tongue relished the textures of Spikes scales, each one as unique as a snowflake. Durable yet delicate.

Spike curled his claws into Apple Bloom's mane, pulling her closer to lick at her neck, burying his snout into her throat latch. Apple Blossoms, of course, Spike rolled his eyes at the obvious choice of fragrance. He could feel the rumbles of Apple Bloom's moaning as she continued her own assault, lapping at the small opening that acted as an ear. She shifted her weight to get closer to Spike, feeling his dual cock poking her in the thigh. She was already wet and willing, but wanted Spike to suffer a little longer. Her hoof ran along his smooth chest, and Apple Bloom could feel Spike's heart beating, powering the blush in his cheeks. The filly thought it curious at Spike's lack of nipples, but shrugged it off as lack of personal knowledge.

The dragon was letting out short, gasping breaths as he was worked over. Apple Bloom's hoof would slide down his small body, stopping before it reached his member, then sliding back up to repeat the process. A few more passes, then Apple Bloom paused and glanced down at the twitching protuberance. Spike's member ached for release, the pink flesh now almost as purple as his scales. It was choking. She glanced back at his face, his eyes closed and tongue hanging out, lost in mind bending pleasure yet no closer to reliving the pain in his loins.

Spike's eyes shot open when he felt Apple Bloom's mouth envelope him. Once again, she took both at once, tongue sliding around and between in a flurry of passion. For her second time, she was surprisingly skilled. Maybe she thinks of it as bobbing for apples?

Apple Bloom could taste the saltiness of Spike's pre on her tongue, and this spurred her to continue. Her ministrations causing Spike to buck and squirm under her, feet kicking the air as he knees hit her throat. He was close, she could feel his cocks beginning to undulate, like they did when they were inside her.

Spike couldn't talk at this point, his eyes long since exploring the back of his head as he almost stopped breathing altogether. His claws frantically groped at her mane and poll, trying to keep her head down until he was finished. Apple Bloom fought against him, and raised her head, releasing him with a lewd slurping sound.

The dragon snapped back to reality, raising his head to cast his disappointed eyes down onto the filly that dared stop. Apple Bloom giggled as she wiped her mouth with a hoof, her eyes showing a gleeful mirth. “Wouldn't be fair if ya gave it up now.” She stood and turned to reposition herself, then laid back down. Her front legs folded against her chest on the bed, while her hindquarters rested near Spike's head, allowing him to smell Apple Bloom's sex.

The swaying red tail beckoned Spike like a snake that had him under its spell. He gripped it in his hand and jerked it aside, Apple Bloom yelping in pain as her head shot up. “Do that again!”

Oh, she likes it rough? Spike pulled harder this time, causing Apple Bloom to cry out even louder as it trailed off into an awkward moan. Curious and inspired, Spike brought his hand down upon her hindquarters, giving an audible slap. Apple Bloom squirmed as tears formed in her eyes.

It never feels this good when I get punished! Apple Bloom smiles despite the pain. She turned her head to ask for more, but Spike was already moving into the next phase, burying his face into her waiting slit. Her lips were engorged and winking seductively as Spike dove in, his forked tongue reaching as far at it could into her, tasting more of that sweet cider. Apple Bloom found herself oddly aroused by the obscene noises her wetness made against Spike's tongue. She gave a few playful licks to the draconic member before her, getting a few more spurts of pre in return. This teasing made Spike speed up his end, prehensile tongue finding and revealing the hardened clit and snaking around it with ease. This sent a jolt of pleasure through Apple Bloom's spine as she moaned even louder. Spike smiled around the nub as he got another wicked idea to pay back for his teasing. He reached a claw up and inserted it into Apple Bloom's tailhole.

“GHA! Spike what in the.....” but she trailed off as the pleasure intensified. She had to admit, he was good at this. Too good in fact, as she would cum before she wanted to. Apple Bloom fought against her desires and wiggled away, not wanting to end this just yet. Both were so close, yet seemed so far. The filly stood again, positioning herself atop the dragon. “Now I get to be on top!” she gave a lecherous grin as she reached down to guide one of Spike's members into her awaiting tunnel.

Spike's back arched instantly as he was taken. His eyes crushed shut as his body was consumed by the heat from Apple Bloom's own need. The filly began moving up and down, teasing in her speed and how much she would let out and back in, driving Spike nuts. He had no idea Apple Bloom was so devious, yet so adorable.

Their eyes locked one final time before they became lost in ecstasy. Both let out moans that sounded almost feral. Faint plumes of smoke rose from Spike's nostrils as he tried to catch his breath, hoping that he didn't lose control and hurt her.

Apple Bloom arched her back, going full speed as the wave of pleasure began to rise. All too soon, it crashed to the shore, sending shock waves though the filly's body as she clenched at Spike's member, milking him for all he was worth. The dragon's head wrenched back as he came harder than the last time, the build up from Apple Bloom's teasing creating a reservoir that now burst forth, washing her insides with warmth.

Apple Bloom sighed and collapsed on top of Spike, his snout burred in her blossom scented chest. Her hind legs kicked slightly as her body continued to twitch involuntarily, her inner walls still clenching in an attempts to pull Spike deeper.

“You're pretty good at this.” Spike replied, kissing Apple Bloom on her forehead.

“You're washing the sheets, ah'm tired.” Apple Bloom yawned, her normally boundless energy drained.

“You're tired?" Spike asked, stifling a yawn of his own. With that, they were both fast asleep.

Turnabout Ponies!

“Come on, guys! Keep those clouds away or it's the Rainbow Factory for you!” Dash commanded, the giant smirk on her face shown she wasn't the least bit serious. Rainbow Dash prided herself in her job as head of the weather team, but she knew that employee morale was proportionate to the amount of work done. Thus she had become good friends with her team, and had one of the most causal workplace dynamics over any other team. Pegasi clamored for the chance to work Ponyville, but some learned that it wasn't all fun and games. They also learned you had to earn that casual relationship with Dash.

Not that Dash didn't earn her own position, far from it. She was not only a stellar employee in her own right, but also pride of her entire species when she performed the Sonic Rainboom.

“Dash, why you always bring up that old mare's tale?” Cloud Kicker asked, snickering.

“Well, it's the right season for it.” Dash shrugged.

“Mrs. Dash! Mrs. Dash!” another mare called out, flying up to her rainbow maned boss. Dash raised a hoof to pause her flight path, a sour look on her face.

“Blue October, there are three things you need to know.” Dash explained calmly, her eyes closed. “First, I'm not married, so don't call me Mrs.” The blue mare blushed and glanced away. “Second, rainbows are not a good spice for ANYTHING.”

Cloud Kicker snickered, drawing Dash's glance over to her as a smile crept across her lips. At least SHE gets the joke.

“Third. You've worked here long enough that you can just call me Dash, or even R.D. I may run a tight ship, but I don't wanna feel like it.” Dash finished, noticing that Blue October had shrunk away considerably.

“Sorry...Mrs....I mean....Dash,” the sky blue mare stammered.

“Nah, it's cool. I admire that work ethic.” Dash shrugged. “Now, what did you need to tell me?”

“The snow storm coming from Everfree has sped up. We might need more pegasi on the front line to stave it off.” Blue October explained.

Dash nodded, concern in her eyes. “I'll see what I can do. We've got to hold it off for at least one more day.”

Blue October nodded and turned to fly off. Dash stopped her, turning her back around to look her in the eye.

“Don't take it so hard. I know what it's like to be the new pony.”

Blue nodded, a smile on her face. With newfound confidence, she flew off.

“I love the rookies,” Dash smiled, noticing Cloud Kicker was still snickering at the whole 'Mrs. Dash' incident. “Get back to work!” Dash snapped, her voice loud but playful .

“Got it boss!” Cloud Kicker saluted then set about her duties.

“Rainbow Dash!” a familiar voice caught the rainbow pegasi's attention and she glanced down to see Twilight Sparkle calling up to her. She swooped down to eye level, curious as to why the unicorn sounded so serious.

“Hey, Twilight. I can't talk long. I need to round up some more pegasi to keep that snow storm away.” Dash glanced around as she spoke, hoping to see any errant pegasi that weren't busy so she could recruit them to the cause.

“This is serious Dash. I need you,” Twilight replied, her voice calm yet strangely on edge.

“I can't just take off in the middle of a project like this. You know how loyal I am.” Dash gave a playful wink.

“What happened to taking your friends feelings seriously?” Twilight cocked her head, eyes narrowing.

“I am taking you seriously. You're not taking me seriously!” Dash argued.

“Pinkie Pie is in trouble, and I need to clear her name!” Twilight snapped, stomping a hoof.

“What happened? What's going on?” Dash placed a hoof to her chin in mock thought. “I know Pinkie is annoying but...”

Twilight shook her head. “Damn it, this is serious! It's about Scootaloo!”

“What about her?” Dash's eyes were suddenly wide as her gaze snapped to the unicorn.

Spike groggily opened his eyes, which immediately drifted to the cuckoo clock on the wall. It had only been a couple of hours, and Twilight still wasn't home yet. He hoped she was okay. His eyes then glanced down to the filly laying on top him him, lightly snoring as she smiled in her sleep. Her eyeshadow was smeared by her sweat and had dried around her eyes. The dragon swore she was glowing the way the sunlight played through the window. His hand hung over the edge of the bed, his claws brushing something. He hooked a claw under what he felt was a handle of some sort, and lifted the object up. Another bag from Rarity's. Twilight's toy. He smirked at this and placed it back where it belonged, figuring Twilight wouldn't appreciate that.

Not that she'd appreciate knowing her number one assistant just got laid, AGAIN. In her own bed no less. He didn't want Twilight to feel jealous, but at the same time there was a nagging guilt he never felt before haunting his own mental recesses.

“Mmm...time to wake up, Bloom.” Spike placed a hand on Apple Bloom's shoulder and gently shook her awake.

“Ah told ya, yer washin' the sheets.” the filly mumbled, rolling over and off of the dragon.

“No, we got to get up. Twilight will probably be home soon.” Spike explained, sitting upright and flexing his cramped shoulders.

“Awww, you ashamed of me, Spike?” Apple Bloom smirked, rolling over and locking eyes with him.

“Of course not, you silly filly!” Spike swatted at her nose with his claws, just enough so as not to hurt her.

“You sound like Pinkie Pie!” Apple Bloom snickered.

Spike shook his head and climbed out of bed. He didn't make it far down the ladder, as he instantly began choking. He had forgotten he had the leash around his neck, and Apple Bloom was holding the other end in her teeth. The corners of her mouth were curled in a devious smile.

“I'm gonna take a bath, then figure out when to make something for Twilght to eat. If she ever gets home. Care to join me?” Spike asked, hanging onto the ladder so he didn't hang himself.

Apple Bloom dropped the cord, her eyes wide. “Ya mean? Ya want me to stay for dinner?”

“Well, maybe. Or stay the night if you want.” Spike winked teasingly. “But only if Applejack says it's okay.”

“Awwww! Then ah'd never get ta stay!” Apple Bloom whined, following Spike out of the bed.

“A.J's not that bad, Bloom. I'm sure she'll let you stay.” Spike walked towards the bathroom, Apple Bloom following close behind.

“Yeah, but...she don't know about us yet, an....I don't know if she'll like it,” she frowned, her eyes on the brink of tears.

“Well, yeah..there is that...” Spike paused, looking down at the floor in disappointment.

Apple Bloom felt bad now. Spike was really liking this and she went and started making him doubt the whole thing.

“Nah. Ah'm sure she won't care,” Apple Bloom waved a hoof dismissively. She smiled when Spike's eyes lit up. There was the dragon she knew.

“Care to join me for a bath, m'lady?” Spike bowed as he gestured towards the tub.

The filly smiled. “Like ya have ta ask?”

“...what?” Rainbow Dash asked, Her eyes shown no emotion, yet Twilight knew that the pegasus was more than willing to take off at the first mention of a name, and let whatever pony that committed the crime feel her wrath. No one messed with Scootaloo, especially not like this.

“Scootaloo needs you, Dash. Surely you can take time out of work to talk to her?”

I'd take the whole year off if I needed to. “Where is she?”

“At the clubhouse I think but....” Dash was off.

Twilight turned around to follow the rainbow blur, and saw Caramel lying on his back, nervously staring at the razor sharp rainbow trail that was mere inches from his flesh.

“Caramel, what are you doing?” Twilight sighed. She didn't have time for this.

“It took a while to find you. But I was thinkin', since you were busy and all, if you wanted my help...” the colt let out a weak chuckle in a pathetic attempt to hide the fact he was blushing.

Twilight sighed, her hoof hitting her face. Then she had an idea. “Caramel, maybe you can help me.” Twilight glanced over her hoof at the clumsy colt struggling to his hooves.

“Really? How?” Caramel asked, his blue eyes hopeful.

“Go back to the library and check on Spike for me. Okay?” Twilight smiled, hoping this made the poor, deperate pony feel somewhat useful.

“Oh....okay....sure. You got it Twilight.” Caramel nodded, and galloped off towards the library. Twilight shook her head. If he was going to keep popping up like this, it could be a real problem. Her mind drifted to other thoughts as she tried to work from her lead. Dash can deal with Scootaloo. Maybe I need to find one of the other crusaders and see what they know.

Her mind began to wander as idly as her hooves. Now with a clear path set out before her, all of the clutter of what if scenarios and possible leads was gone, leaving room for stranger thoughts to emerge.

Now that I think about it. I don't know when Caramel arrived here. He seems pretty eager to go on a date with me. Maybe.... Twilight shook her head, but the terrible thoughts clung on. As much as I'd hate to say it...Caramel is now a suspect.

Frowning, Twilight glanced around for the next course of action. Surely Scootaloo confided in her friends. Maybe I should find Rarity and talk to Sweetie Belle.

Spike gasped for air as a wall of tepid bath water hit him in the face, snapping him back to a reality he didn't know he left. It didn't take long for the water to get cold, and it was even less time before Apple Bloom found out how to weaponize it. For all her newfound maturity, Spike admired that the filly still wanted to have fun.

“You seem distracted, Spike. Is something wrong?” Apple Bloom asked, refraining from her play as she tilted her head in genuine concern.

“I don't know...Caramel springing on Twilight so suddenly probably won't end well for either of them,” Spike rubbed the back of his head. “and I just think she's gonna come back to eying me, which will make me feel bad because I'm with you.”

“Were ya thinkin' of Twilight when we was...” Apple Bloom asked.

“NO! Of course not!” Spike shook his head, more out of denial towards himself than her accusation.

“Then what's ta worry about?” the filly asked, preparing to unleash another tidal wave.

“Excuse me! Need to get something.” The Doctor pardoned himself as he barged into the bathroom.

“Uh, hello? We're trying to take a bath.” Spike replied, his eyes narrowed in frustration as he gestured to the water in the tub..

“That's all very well and good,” the Doctor nodded “But, for mammals who don't wear clothing, I find it rather daft to worry about privacy now,” he explained as he glanced around then headed straight for the medicine cabinet. He popped open the door and found what he was looking for, his head reemerging with something in his mouth that rattled with every movement.

“How did you know Twilight had those?” Spike quirked a brow as he pointed to the offending item.

“No time! Pinkie is having another one of her 'bi-polar' episodes.” the Doctor spoke through the bottle in his teeth.

“So you're just going to dope her up?” Spike asked, giving a shrug that mocked the Doctor's own callous nonchalance.

“I don't see you doing anything to help,” the Doctor replied flatly. He left with the pills in tow, the rattling growing distant until he returned to his basement domicile. Apple Bloom tilted her head at Spike, who was resting his head on his hand upon the edge of the tub.

“Sometimes the Doctor is to honest for his own good.” Spike's voice was flat and unimpressed by the colt's bravado.

Apple Bloom pulled the plug to begin draining the water that had lost its appeal. “What was that bottle he took?”

“Those? Ah, Twilight gets a little too wound up sometimes. I don't think it's a good idea, but whatever keeps her from going off like she did before.” Spike sighed. “That and she has, well, problems.”

“What kind of problems?” Apple Bloom asked, her voice one of concern for her favorite unicorn.

“Ah, I'll explain more later. I'm hungry. How about you?” Spike asked, hoping to change the subject.

A knock at the door grabbed their attention. Spike and Apple Bloom looked at each other then climbed out of the tub to dry off. Spike headed downstairs to answer the door and was greeted with Caramel. The colt had a cheesy smile on his face as he looked Spike over. “Well, everything seems to be fine! I can tell Twilight the good news!”

“What are you talking about?” Spike asked, blinking in confusion.

“Oh! Twilight sent me to check up on you! I'm helping out! Hey, Apple Bloom! How are things?” Caramel called to his cusion. Spike turned to see the filly approaching behind him.

“Why aren't you takin' Twilight out on a date?” Apple Bloom asked, sitting on the floor next to Spike.

“She said she was busy.” Caramel hung his head in disappointment. “I think she hates me.”

“Now, don't think like that! She's just a bit....high maintenance is all. Come on, I'll tell you what you need to know.” Spike invited the colt inside and shut the door.

“Sweetie Belle hasn't said a word for a few days now. Something is on her mind.” Rarity explained, glancing over her shoulder at her little sister. Her green eyes bore that same blank expression, but she was far from clueless. “I honestly don't think she could be of much help to you.”

“I have to try. It is my job after all.” Twilight narrowed her eyes, ready for the challenge. Taking a deep breath, she trotted over to Sweetie Belle, who was busy trying to look amused by rolling a ball.

“Sweetie...do you know anything about what happened to Scootaloo? Did she tell you anything?” Twilight asked, trying to remain calm and professional despite her growing tension and worries.

The unicorn shook her head, biting her lip to elaborate her vow of silence. She wasn't about to sell out her friends, nor get in trouble herself.

“Sweeite, please. Pinkie is in big trouble. Anything you know could help her.” Twilight pleaded now, her eyes watering slightly.

Sweetie Belle shook her head once more, though her eyes were crying out for an audience. There's something on her mind, alright, Twilight thought, eying the filly like she was another puzzle to solve.

“I'm sorry, dear. I wish she could have been more help.” Rarity replied, walking up next to her fellow unicorn. “OH! Since you're on 'active duty' and all, I'd like to report something myself.”

“What?” Twilight asked, raising her head to meet Rarity's sapphire eyes.

“Somepony stole something from my stock! While I was taking inventory, I noticed a tube...well....a tube of lubricant, was missing.” Rarity explained, her voice growing to a whisper.

Twilight rubbed a hoof over her eyes. “I'll look into that later. I promise. But this takes precedence.”

“I understand dear.” Rarity nodded. “I just thought you would like to know, since I found dragon scales in the lock of my boutique door.”

“Wait...what?” Twilight snapped her eyes back to the white unicorn. “Dragon scales?”

“Yes dear....purple, I'm afraid.” Rarity shook her head, not wanting to believe the news herself.

Spiiiike.... Twilight frowned, her eyes filled with worry. Great, she rolled her eyes. Now he's a suspect too. She looked at Sweetie Belle, and sighed that the filly was also a suspect. Her list was growing, but Twilight refused to believe any of them. Something was wrong, yet a bigger mystery was uncovering itself in the process.

I just hope Dash is having better luck.

“Twilight is very insecure in herself. All you have to do is provide positive reinforcement.” Spike explained, sitting a cup of coffee in front of a very confused Caramel. Apple Bloom sat next to the dragon, nodding in agreement.

“You don't do that to me, do you Spike?” the filly asked, playfully swatting the dragon with her forehoof.

“No,” Spike muttered. “Anyway, another thing about her, is she's so focused on whatever task is given to her, she bypasses everything else, including eating. Keep her fed throughout the day, because a unicorn of her power can't afford to lose concentration,” the dragon explained, tossing a cookie into his mouth.

“So, treat her like a pet?” Apple Bloom asked, cocking a brow in confusion.

“NO! Well...” the dragon thought a moment. “Kind of, I guess...give her love and food and she'll be fine. Just don't prey on her emotions.”

Caramel nodded, unsure of this advice but happy he had some guidance. “Well, thanks for the advice, Spike. You two stay out of trouble now,” the colt smiled his dopey smile and shown himself out, leaving the dragon and the filly alone on the couch.

“You seem to know a lot about Twilight.” Apple Bloom observed, a devious smile on her face.

“Well, I have to. Imagine how insane she would've went if I wasn't here to ask for Princess Celestia's help.” Spike nodded, his eyes closed in confidence.

“Ah'm bored. Let's have some fun!” Apple Bloom perked up, bounding on the couch.

“Nah, not right now...” Spike mumbled, turning on the television. Apple Bloom frowned, but finally decided to join in Spike's viewing session, resting her head on his lap.

Scootaloo was alone in the CMC clubhouse, sitting in the dark as her mind tried to come to terms with what had happened to her. What made the process even more painful, was her mind automatically tried to justify the situation instead of admit it was her own fault.

The soft flutter of wings and the shuffling of hooves outside alerted Scootaloo to another presence. Applejack had already checked on her, but this pony gave a different feeling. Scootaloo quickly wiped her eyes and tried to hide any sign that she had been crying. Her eyes widened when Rainbow Dash stepped into the tree fort, her face a mask of concern.

“Hey, Scoots...” Dash replied, rubbing her leg with a hoof. “I...uh...heard what happened. If you want to talk about it I'm....”

“NO!” Scootaloo snapped. “I'm fine! Why can't anypony see that?”

“Scootaloo, I know you're hurt. Everypony gets hurt and afraid,” Dash's gaze drifted to the ground, “even me.”

“Really?” Scootaloo's eyes widened. She had never seen her idol so vulnerable. “You get afraid?”

“I was afraid when I heard what happened to you,” Dash ran a hoof through Scootaloo's mane. “Rather you believe it or not, I'm always there for you.”

“I know you'd never abandon me, Dash.” Scootaloo replied, sinking into the warm feeling of being stroked by a powerful hoof.

“Look,” Dash stopped her stroking. Scootaloo frowned, but cocked her ears forward to listen to what Dash had to say. “I'm no good with this kind of stuff. So...” the rainbow pegasus trailed off as her eyes followed the whisps of breath. “..if you want to tell me what happened.”

“No....not right now. But when I'm ready, you'll be the first to know.” Scootaloo smiled.

“That's all I can ask for. I want you to carry on my legacy, not my criminal record.” Dash snickered, giving Scootaloo a noogie.

“Thank you, Dash.”

Twilight Sparkle swooned in her lovers arms. Her violet eyes looking up at the manly dragon before her. The sunlight through the antebellum windows illuminated the bright red Puebla dress she wore, and she tossed her shimmering mane aside to bask in the glow of her captor's green eyed gaze.

Spike sneered, adjusting his black top hat and cape, which made him very mysterious and forbidden. He also had a glorious mustache, ready to tickle Twilight in places unknown.

"Oh, Twilight! Quiero hacértelo como la salvaje yegua que eres!" Spike's words were filled with a wild passion.

"Si, Spike! Tómame como la sucia y salvaje yegua que soy!" Twilight spoke, her words strained from being breathless in the hands of this stranger.

Spike tossed Twilight onto the sofa violent, willing to appease her wishes as he tore the dress from her. She lay bare, hind legs splayed as Spike took in the sight before him. A grin spread across his mustachioed face and he lowered himself between her flanks. Twilight tensed like a spring ready to snap, licking her lips in anticipation at the mustache that will soon grace her nethers.

The feeling struck, unexpected. Thick hairs brushed against her mound, causing the unicorn to buck her hips in wild fury. She was close now, hips undulating in time to Spike's caress. Her breath became short and strained as she cried out in ecstasy.

“Ay! Spike! SPIKE!”

“SPIIIIKKEEE!” Apple Bloom shouted, startling the dragon as he fell off the couch. “You okay?”

“Ugh...yeah. Just, kinda nodded off I guess.” Spike shook his head, wondering where in Equestria those images came from. He glanced at the television, which shown some lame soap opera from Mexicolt. “What's wrong?”

“Ah'm bored!” Apple Bloom frowned. “Ya want me ta stay the night, but we're not havin' any fun!”

“Well...”

The library door opened, and Twilight Sparkle stepped inside. She looked tired, and her mane was a mess. She could feel each hair stand on end as the thoughts of her long list of impossible suspects scrolled through her mind.

“Spike....we need to talk.”

“If this is about me and Apple Bloom....” Spike tried to interject, but was silenced by a raised hoof.

“Spike, I'm happy that you found a relationship. But that does NOT give you permission to steal from our friends!” Twilight explained, stomping her hoof on the floor.

“Oh....that....” Spike hung his head.

“Now because of this, you're a suspect.” Twilight added, hanging her head. It clearly pained her to say those words.

“A...a suspect? For what?” Spike stammered, taken aback.

“Scootaloo's rape.” Twilight replied flatly.

It was Apple Bloom's turn to be horrified. But she didn't show it. “Twilight, ah...”

“No, Apple Bloom! Spike has to learn from his mistakes. He just better hope he's innocent.” Twilight sighed. The unicorn trotted upstairs without saying another word. She needed her rest for tomorrow after all.

Spike dropped to the floor, his rear making an audible thump as he landed. Apple Bloom frowned at the sight of her lover almost in tears, and realized just how innocent he really is. This was all her fault, and that pained the filly more than any thoughts of Spike sleeping with another pony.

The Break Up

“I do hope I'm not taking away from your busy schedule, darling,” Rarity spoke between the kisses that were constantly assaulting her lips.

“Oh, nonsense, dear! If only the council meetings were this fun!” Emily replied, sweat plastering the mayor's gray mane to her forehead. “Besides, everypony in town has been pretty angry since I announced there was another rape in the park,” she lowered herself to plant another kiss.

Rarity's sapphire eyes shot open and she shoved Emily off of her. “You did what?!” The mayor was shocked at this sudden outburst. “Twilight came by here asking about that! You knew this whole time?!”

“I don't know who did it,” Emily replied, subconsciously adjusting her hair. “But I assumed it was the same pony who raped that mare a while back.”

“That 'same pony' is my friend!” Rarity snapped. “Her life is ruined because of this mess! Because of you she's...she probably ran off to the Everfree Forest.”

“Rarity, I'm not the one who put the other ponies up to it. All I do is my job. They draw their own conclusions. If you're confident she didn't do it, I believe you. But Twilight still has to hold up her end of the deal and prove it to the others,” Emily nodded.

“I don't know...” Rarity fumbled with her hooves. “Twilight doesn't exactly work well under stress.”

Emily had produced a dragon shaped toy from under the covers. The rubber was still slick from earlier overuse. “Well then, maybe she needs a stress reliever,” she narrowed her eyes and smirked as she glanced at the unicorn. She held the toy up seductively.

Rarity let out a sad sigh. “All I wanted was to make ponies happy. These products provided that, but now...I can't help but feel I'm responsible for all that's happened here, rather it involved my product or not.”

“You provided ponies an outlet and some of them took it too far. Happens with everything,” Emily replied, tossing the toy onto the mattress. “I try to keep tabs of what goes on in town, and I haven't seen anything wrong outside of the crimes.”

Rarity nodded, any passion she had left was gone as her thoughts turned to all the damage she probably caused.

“The dragon is coming, Rarity! Better run!” Emily spoke in a deep voice as she brought the toy closer to the unicorn.

The bell atop the school house rang once more, signaling the end of another boring school day. Cheerilee had felt it prudent to bring in other ponies to lecture about various subjects that were part of the curriculum, but she had little knowledge about. Today's lecture about life on other worlds by that tan colt with the hourglass mark was interesting, but Apple Bloom didnt care. As far as she knew, humans were as much a myth as Seaponies and Schmoos.

Sweetie Belle walked alongside, her face blank as always as she tried to process what she had learned today. When that pony called the universe a 'fabric', Sweetie giggled that the sky was a piece of dumb fabric, then briefly thought if she could get a piece of that fabric and make something special for her big sister. Such was Sweetie Belle's well meaning thought process. She noticed Apple Bloom was silent, her eyes showing she was thinking of something as she subconsciously led Sweetie Belle to the Cutie Mark Crusader clubhouse.

“You okay, Apple Bloom?” Sweetie finally asked, breaking the silence that hung in the air.

“No! Ah could hear Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon giggling in the back of the class, and when I listened in, they were talking about Scootaloo,” Apple Bloom spat.

“Silver Spoon seemed worried about Scootaloo. Maybe she was just laughing for Diamond's sake?” Sweetie Belle replied, her green eyes glancing at the angry filly next to her.

Apple Bloom paused and turned to look at the unicorn. “You're kidding right? Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon are the meanest, nastiest fillies ever!” She sighed as she looked at the ground. “I wish I shared your optimism about ponies.”

“No! It's true! She sounded really worried!” Sweetie Belle protested.

“Just drop it,” Apple Bloom snapped, sounding meaner than she intended. “We got to get to Scootaloo before they do.”

Little did they know Silver Spoon was following behind, hearing every word. She was hurt by Apple Bloom's insults in the face of Sweetie's defense. The poor unicorn was only trying to convince her friend Silver Spoon wasn't such a heartless monster, but the earth pony had her mind made up. Silver figured it was her own fault for associating with Diamond to begin with, but there was a side to her friend the others didn't know about. If only they knew...

She picked up the pace, trying to stay out of sight. She was curious where the self proclaimed crusaders met, and perhaps join them if they had met each other under different circumstances. The walk was a long one, from one end of Ponyville to the other. Silver Spoon's pampered body couldn't handle the pressure as muscles she didn't know she had began to ache with all the walking. It was all worth it to try and make peace with the crusaders. Though Silver felt bad that it took this happening to make her realize it.

The grey earth pony hid in the bushes as Sweetie and Apple Bloom walked into the clubhouse. Voices could be heard, mostly Scootaloo sobbing. Then she heard the pegasus say something about meeting at the edge of the Everfree Forest. The three flied out of the clubhouse, Sweetie and Apple Bloom acting almost like escorts for Scootaloo as they flanked her and kept watch. Silver Spoon ducked back into the bush so as to not be seen. Once hey were gone, the grey filly emerged and began following once more. Her mind began to wander to why she was acting so afraid of them.

Twilight figured that her best option would be to ask Scootaloo herself. If she could obtain something to work from, she could analyze the DNA. But matching it to the suspect would be tricky without access to any form of database. That's my next project, apparently.

The best place to start looking was at the CMC clubhouse, which prompted Twilight to think that she had never seen any parents or siblings of Scootaloo's. In fact, outside of the other crusaders and Dash, she had no true family to speak of.

Such a prospect was heart wrenching to think about, especially with what Scootaloo was going through now. The whole situation being public didn't help matters either. Hopefully Dash provided the comfort she needed, otherwise approaching her would be more difficult than Twilight wanted it to be.

The walk to Sweet Apple Acres didn't take long, and Twilight could sense a growing feeling of foreboding in the air as she made her way to the clearing where Apple Bloom's little hoof built shack sat. Twilight knocked three times, but got no response.

“Scootaloo? It's me, Twilight. I...I need to ask you some questions,” Twilight nervously fidgeted her hooves as she awaited an answer.

Nothing.

“Scootaloo?” Twilight peeked her head into the clubhouse to find it empty, save for the map of Ponyville that they've probably traversed hundreds of times in their quest for a cutie mark. Twilight felt her stomach turn as her eyes darted around to make sure she didn't miss anything.

“No.....nononononono! Oh, Celestia NO!” Twilight began muttering to herself as she paced in a circle. She knew it was a bad idea to leave her alone, especially with the realization she had no family to look after her. Without her, there's no way to find the suspect! Then Pinkie will suffer the consequences! Oh, Celestia...

Twilight hated using the Princess' name in vain, but couldn't think of any other appropriate exclamation at the moment. Bad enough she had all these other mysteries to tend to, but losing the victim was the final straw. Scootaloo is goddess knows where, I could lose my job, Pinkie could lose her life..... Twilight could feel her left eye twitching, her emotions making the build up of magical energy in her horn painful as it coursed through her temples.

She jerked her head upwards and peered at the sky, then began screaming.

“DAAAAAASH!” Twilight shouted up to the clouds, hoping that the rainbow pegasus heard her. “DASH! WHERE ARE YOU?!”

“Right here, Twi. What's up?” Dash swooped down and landed next to the unicorn.

“Where's Scootaloo?”

“Last I saw her, she was right here,” Dash gestured with a hoof. Her glance followed and she saw the little shed was empty.

Twilight shook her head, “She's not there now.”

Dash's face became determined. “Celestia help me if I find whoever...”

“Settle down, Dash,” Twilight wasn't surprised by this outburst. Dash did a lousy job hiding that she cared about Scootaloo. “You take to the air and see what you can find, I'll check the ground.”

Dash saluted and took off without another word.

“Okay, Twilight. You can do this...you may not have found the suspect yet and you may have lost the victim, but you can still...do...this...” Twilight could feel an all to familiar warmth radiating through her body. It was the same feeling when she lost control of her magic, but this wasn't painful, just annoying. Her body tingled with the dormant energy that increased with her stress level, ionizing the air around her enough to make her mane begin to curl at the ends.

“Twilight, are you okay?” A gentle voice snapped the unicorn from focusing on her rampant magic. Twilight jerked her gaze to the source to see Fluttershy trying to hide her face out of shame for disturbing her. Behind her, was Minty. The green earth pony was silent, but her eyes shown she had recovered well enough.

“Fluttershy? What are you doing here?” Twilight quirked a brow.

“Oh, well, Minty and I thought we could go get something to eat,” the yellow pegasus explained, shrinking as if she was going to be punished. Twilight had wondered where Minty had went off to, if she even went back home. Obviously something happened between her and Fluttershy that prompted her to remain. But Twilight didn't care about that detail now.

“Have you seen Scootaloo anywhere?”

Fluttershy shook her head, a frown on her face. “Is everything okay?”

Twilight let out a frustrated sigh, her mane hanging in her eyes. “No...everything is NOT okay.”

The yellow pegasus cringed at the anger in Twilight's voice. She froze when Twilight jerked her determined gaze up to the couple, her eyes giving an angry glare.

“Minty, did you say anything to anypony else about what happened between you and Pinkie?” Twilight asked, her voice sounding annoyed and stressed.

“Uh...no....just you and Fluttershy. That nice nurse pony knows too. But that's it.”

Twilight stomped a hoof on the ground. Damnit, no pony is any help! “Okay, thank you anyway.”

Twilight was getting nowhere fast, and it was causing a swil of dark emotions to twist inside her. She could not fail at this, she had to see it through. She glanced back at the sky, hoping Dash would have better luck than her.

“Why are we here again?” Apple Bloom asked, glancing around at the edge of the Everfree Forest.

“Because I wanted to get somewhere far away so Dash couldn't see me like this,” Scootaloo snapped. “It was bad enough she saw me in such a state earlier.”

“You need help Scootaloo,” Sweetie Belle interjected, “Twilight was asking me about what happened, but I didnt' say anything. She looked really worried and said Pinkie was in big trouble.”

“What? Why would Pinkie be in trouble?” Scootaloo asked, her eyes widened at the horror her situation brought onto the others.

“I don't know, but you really need to say something to somepony. This sounds bad,” Sweetie replied.

“What exactly caused all o this anyway?” Apple Bloom asked, her tongue running subconsciously over her chipped tooth.

“I was just playing a game with Snips and Snails, then things got out of control and..Snails....well....hurt me,” Scootaloo explained, glancing away as she blushed in shame.

“What in Equestria were ya thinkin playin a game like that with those two anyway?!” Apple Bloom asked, her voice louder than it should have been.

Scootaloo flinched, her mouth turned dry as she mulled over rather or not to tell Apple Bloom about the inspiration. With a heavy sigh, the orange pegasus decided to come clean. “I...I saw Big Mac and another guy pony in the barn one night...they were drunk and...well....doing it....” Images of Braeburn impaled on Big Mac's rather large cock appeared in her mind once more, causing her little wings to pop up, though they were to small for anypony else to notice.

Apple Bloom stood in silence, her mouth hanging open as her firey eyes darted around searching for a response. Her face then twisted up in anger as she glared at the pegasus filly. “YOU TAKE THAT BACK! BIG MAC WOULDN'T DO SUCH A THING!”

“It's true!” Scootalo protested, completely unaware she was digging her grave deeper. “I saw Big Mac and a guy pony in a cowboy hat and...”

“BRAEBURN?” Apple Bloom shouted, not caring who heard them at this point. “SCOOTALOO! AH ALWAYS KNEW YOU WERE A SICK PONY! BUT WHAT YER SAYIN BOUT MAH FAMILY IS JUST WRONG!”

Scootaloo was hut by these words. She never meant to damage her friend's family pride, but the truth was the truth. Scootaloo swallowed hard and opened her mouth to respond. Apple Bloom only stuck her snout into the air, turned on her hooves, and stomped off.

The distraught pegasus glanced over to Sweetie Belle, who wore her trademark blank stare, not saying a word. “You believe me, don't you Sweetie?” Scootaloo croaked, tears welling in her eyes.

The unicorn sighed, hanging her head and shaking it slowly. “It's not nice to tell lies, Scoots,” With those words, the white filly took off after Apple Bloom, hoping to calm her down.

Scootaloo was alone now, having just potentially lost her two best friends, and the closest thing to a family she ever had. The CMC were officially disbanded, and it was all the fault of her own voyeuristic tendencies. Part of her wanted to find evidence to prove Apple Bloom wrong, but Scootaloo knew that was a bad idea. The Apple Clan had a strong sense of pide, and were as stubborn as mules.

With no other option, the orange pegasus burred her face in her hooves and sobbed.

“Hey, Scootaloo....are you okay?” A gentle voice caught Scootaloo's attention, and she glanced up to see a grey coated filly with a silvery mane staring at her. Violet eyes filled with genuine worry watered behind her blue framed glasses.

Scootaloo didn't recognize the pony, as she was blurred by the tears in her eyes. But when she saw the spoon cutie mark, Scootaloo clenched her teeth in anger. “What do you want?”

Silver Spoon flinched at the sound of Scootaloo's voice. The mix of hate for Silver as well as herself and the ponies who hurt her, gave it a venom that could kill on contact.

“I...I heard what happened, and I wanted to see if you were okay. Diamond Tiara said she was to find and laugh at you. I came to warn you,” Silver explained, pawing the ground with a hoof as she tried to avoid eye contact.

“How did you know I was here?” Scootaloo snarled, her voice not losing any of the anger it had before.

“I overheard you three talking after school. I kind of followed the other two here. I just wanted to be sure you were okay,” Silver Spoon nodded, a weak smile across her face.

Scootaloo didn't understand the sudden kindness Silver Spoon was displaying, nor did she buy it for one minute. This was probably part of some elaborate prank.

“Just go away...I'm fine...” Scootaloo replied glumly.

“I just want to help...”

“I SAID GO!” Scootaloo snapped.

Silver Spoon nodded, feeling tears run down her cheeks. She turned and galloped off, leaving Scootaloo to stew in her own self pity.

Scootaloo Soup For The Soul

Hearth Warming Eve was all about friendship. At least, that’s what the holiday play had told her once. Perhaps a Wendigo would come and consume her, freezing her in it’s icy embrace. Scootaloo already felt worthless and alone. Bad enough she couldn’t control what happened to her with Snips and Snails. Now it was even worse because her only friends had left her for telling lies. They would never understand.

The worst part of the whole situation, was Snips and Snails never apologized. Scootaloo knew it was her own fault for getting into that situation, but those two took it too far.

What bothered Scootaloo the most about her current state, was how the other ponies seemed to ignore her. They acknowledged her presence, and gave an occasional wave. But other than that, it was just normal to see the copper pegasus wandering the streets alone. Somehow, the thought of her very existence being mundane hurt her. Much like her idol Rainbow Dash, she desired attention. Being denied that annoyed her more than anything, especially when it was her friends.

I should go down there, call out Big Mac in front of Apple Bloom, and prove that I’m not a liar!

Yeah, that would end well.

No, she would rather do as she always did. Before she met Sweetie Belle. Before they met Apple Bloom. Her against the world.

“Oi! ‘Ello there!” That voice sounded familiar but at the same time unknown. Scootaloo looked around until her eyes fell on the small pinto standing before her. His small stature made the pegasus feel a bit more confident as she spread her tiny wings in a show of bravado.

“Who are you?” Scootaloo rolled her eyes, not in the mood to talk to anypony.

“Why, I’m Pip Squire of course! You can call me Pipsqueak!” The foal bounced happily as if he were trying to channel Pinkie Pie. “This is my first Hearth Warming in Ponyville and I can’t wait! I heard that Princess Celestia brings all the good ponies toys while Princess Luna punishes the naughty ponies! But that can’t be right, Princess Luna is awesome!”

Scootaloo shook her head, as she couldn’t bring herself to be mad at such innocence. “Kid, if you knew the holidays like I have, you wouldn’t be so excited.”

“Well, how do you know the holidays?” Pip asked, tilting his head.

“Nah. I don’t want to ruin them for you. Run along,” Scootaloo waved a hoof, surprising herself at how much she sounded like her idol at that moment.

She felt a hoof upon her own, and glanced down to see Pip staring up at her with sad eyes. “Everypony needs a friend on Hearth Warming Eve.”

Scootaloo smiled a bit, feeling her eyes water. She didn’t let on any emotion as she replied. “Okay, kid. You can hang with me.”

-“Scootaloo’s Carol”

There was absolutely nothing worse than being completely alone on Hearth's Warming Eve. But Scootaloo knew that would be exactly what would happen to her. Everypony was preparing for the coming festivities, almost completely forgetting about the pegasus filly and what had transpired. Not that Scootaloo felt comfortable with everypony knowing about it anyway.

Now she felt like those dirty street ponies she saw in that one holiday show. Stealing bread and causing mischief. Practically compelled to smack a Loopity Hoop down the street with a stick.

All alone with no family to speak of, and no friends to confide in. She should be used to this by now, but it still hurt inside. No matter how much of a brave face she put on, how high she held her head, nothing could mask the visible pain her eyes.

She could always count on Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom to keep her fed. Keep her warm...and keep her secret. Nopony knew she was homeless, abandoned. Even if they did, Scootaloo wouldn’t want their pity. She felt bad accepting her friend’s charity, but what could she do? A pegasai’s job was to command the weather, and she couldn’t even fly.

“Scootaloo?” A voice caught the copper filly’s attention. She turned her eyes up to see Twilight Sparkle, almost angelic in the glow of the festive lights in the window of Sugarcube Corner. The neon alicorn decoration gave the impression Twilight herself had wings.

“Oh, hey Twilight...” she muttered, looking away.

“I need to know what happened. I tried to find the one who did it myself, but...I can’t,” Twilight hung her head in disappointment. “I’m going to fail, and let everypony down.”

Scootaloo hated seeing Twilight upset, and felt a stabbing pain in her own gut as she looked at the purple unicorn on the brink of tears. “Twilight...I...”

“Pinkie Pie would never forgive me!” Twilight blurted out, finally relieving herself of the guilt gnawing at her.

“Why?” Scootaloo tilted her head.

Twilight didn’t reply, just sulked off as tears began to form. The copper filly turned to look at Pip, who was also on the brink of tears. “You know what she’s talkin’ about?”

Pip shook his head. He began walking off, prompting Scootaloo to follow out of curiosity.

-“Stocking Stuffer”

“Where are we?” Scootaloo found herself on the outskirts of the Everfree Forest. “How did we get here?” She was confused at this turn of events. How did they get here so quickly?

“C’mon! We’re gonna go lookin’ for Princess Luna! She’s probably out here right now waiting to punish the naughty ponies! I hope I’m on her nice list!” Pip exclaimed, darting off to the depths of the forest. Scootaloo was taken aback by his brazen attitude, and part of her felt it was her responsibility to make sure he came back safe.

With a heavy sigh, the copper filly followed, staring at the ground the whole way. The scenery began to change into something more familiar as she realized she was in the area of Fluttershy’s cottage. Wouldn’t hurt to ask her for help in corralling Pip. After all, Scootaloo knew from experience that the yellow pegasus wasn’t one to be crossed. Approaching the door filled her with an unexplained sense of dread. She knocked three times, but there was no answer. She tried again, and there was still no reply.

“She must be out helping the animals,” Scootaloo muttered to herself, a scowl on her face.

“C’mon! We might see her!” Pip called from out of the darkness ahead. Scootaloo shook her head in protest, wanting to find out what was going on. She couldn’t explain it, but everything felt dreamlike to her. Finding a good hoofhold on the side of the tree, Scootaloo began putting her limber body to use as she worked her way to one of the upstairs windows. The bedroom they slept in when the Crusaders were having a sleepover.

Bittersweet memories of the time she had with her friends came flooding back, but Scootaloo bit back the tears. She could hear voices, and strained to see if everything was alright.

“Minty,” Fluttershy began, glancing away from the green mare before her. “I...well...I can’t help but notice that you’ve become...well...attached...”

Minty turned away from the upstairs window, her eyes filled with worry. “What do you mean? You’ve been so kind to me, and...”

“That’s just it. I’ve only been kind to you because you needed it. But what you’re wanting now...I...I don’t think I can provide that for you.” Fluttershy glanced away again, trying not to cry. “I’m sorry...”

“What about what we did before? Didn’t that have some meaning?” Minty’s eyes were shimmering, and Fluttershy didn’t have to look to know what was coming. She felt her stomach twist as her mind groped for the words.

“That was just...” the pegasus froze as she tried to word this in a way that wouldn’t undo all the work she done. The last thing Fluttershy wanted was Minty to think she was raped again. “I wanted you to understand the difference, so you wouldn’t live in constant fear.”

Minty blinked, trying to process what she was hearing. “I’ve never had a pony be so kind to me before. I...I only wanted to return the favor...somehow...”

Fluttershy sniffed loudly, obviously trying her best not to cry. “I know but...I don’t want Pinkie to feel I’m keeping you away from her. She’s trying awfully hard to get you back.”

“She will, but for now...I only want to be with you,” Minty nodded.

Fluttershy let out a weary sigh. “I...I can’t...”

“Then at least let me spend this holiday with you before I leave,” Minty replied, fighting tears of her own. She hesitantly stepped forward, closing the distance between her and Fluttershy. Before the pegasus could react, Minty pressed her lips to hers. Fluttershy felt the blush overtake her face almost instantly, her tail twitching with a life of its own.

“It’s always best to forgive friends, even when they’re wrong,” Pip exclaimed, popping up next to Scootaloo unexpectedly.

“How did you...” the copper filly glanced down to see he was clinging on the tree next to her. “What is that supposed to mean?”

“Your friends!” Pip replied. “You have to forgive them, otherwise you’ll be alone forever! You can be replaced, and some ponies might not be so nice about it.”

“I don’t know who you are, but you’re way to insightful to be...” Scootaloo stopped when she noticed Pip was gone again. She rolled her eyes and went back to watching the scene unfold. Her little wings began to stiffen at the sight.

“I still don’t think this is a good idea, Minty...” Fluttershy continued, but couldn’t bring herself to protest any further. Perhaps this was the only way Minty could cope with what had happened to her. Experience it in a positive light to know it isn’t all terrible.

Minty didn’t say anything more as she began nuzzling her caretaker. Her quiet nickering making Fluttershy begin to feel excited. No pony had ever loved her in this capacity before, and part of her really wanted this to work out. But Fluttershy knew it wouldn’t be fair to Pinkie to continue this beyond tonight. She’d let Minty have her fun, then that would be the end of it. She would receive, but only give in moderation.

The green earth pony began nibbling at Fluttershy’s ear, her breathing short and passionate. For a brief moment, Minty wondered why it couldn’t feel like this with Pinkie. She frowned when she realized it probably never would now. She had lost Pinkie, and now she was about to lose Fluttershy.

“Why...” Minty whispered into the pegasi’s ear. “Why do I have to lose my friends?”

Fluttershy turned to make eye contact, her face visibly flushed. “What do you mean?”

“I’ve lost Pinkie...now after tonight I’m going to lose you. I can’t stand that thought,” she began to tear up.

“Minty...I’m...well...flattered I mean so much to you. But I just don’t feel right doing this,” Fluttershy sighed.

“And here you say I need more confidence...” Minty smirked, resuming her nibbling and occasional licking. Fluttershy cringed slightly, but didn’t want to offend Minty in her time of emotional need.

The peppermint pony continued, pressing with her hooves to make Fluttershy lie down on the floor so she could be more comfortable. Fluttershy didn’t struggle, just let Minty continue with her need. The earth pony began nibbling down the pegasai’s mane, continuing back and forth as she nickered and panted. Soon, her hooves were working their way down, massaging Fluttershy’s flanks and cutie marks. Minty smiled as the yellow wings before her slowly stiffened and shuddered with each touch.

“I’m so glad I can return the favor for all of your kindness, Fluttershy,” the smell of mints filled the pegasi’s nose as a bright pink tail began flagging against her snout.

The yellow pegasus flinched when she felt Minty’s hot breath working it’s way down her flank and towards her need. She bit her lip and crushed her eyes shut, trying to ignore the nagging voice of her conscience. Tears began stinging her eyes. A soft tongue against her clit made Fluttershy jolt upright as a spark surged up her spine. It had taken her by surprise, as the next lick only felt numb and distant. Minty was trying her best, but all Fluttershy could do, was weep.

“What’s wrong?” Minty asked, her voice filled with concern as she stopped and looked over her shoulder. The sight of the most generous pony in the world, sobbing because of Minty’s own actions, made the green pony’s heart sink.

“I’m sorry...I didn’t want to hurt you...” Minty pleaded. Tears began stinging her own eyes when a sudden realization hit her.

“C’MON!” Pip called out, standing at the base of the tree. “I think I saw Princess Luna!”

Scootaloo wiped her eyes with a hoof and nodded, not wanting to see any more of this painful scene. She pushed herself off the tree and landed deftly on all fours next to Pip.

“I suppose this was to teach me something about becoming the bully I hated?” Scootaloo rolled her eyes at such a morality fable being shoved down her throat.

“I don’t know what you’re talkin’ about,” Pip answered, tilting his head. The honesty in his voice was enough to drop the subject, and the copper filly followed the pinto into the forest.

After what felt like hours, there was no sight of the princess of the night. Not that Scootaloo was in the mood to see her anyway. She looked over to Pip, who stood rigid and alert, staring at the moon hoping to see a passing shadow of an alicorn.

Something did pass by the moon, but it didn’t look like a pony. Scootaloo sighed and tore her stare away from the object, giving Pip a mild glare.

“Well, she didn’t come, or we missed her. Guess I haven’t been naughty enough,” the filly smirked.

Pip shook his head. “It’s not nice to enjoy bein’ naughty! You might miss your chance!”

“Chance at what?” Scootaloo quirked a brow. Pip had already taken off once again, leaving the filly to grumble about how this had better be worth it. Following the hoofprints in the snow, Scootaloo found herself back in Ponyville proper, with no feeling of any passage of time. She paced in a circle, taking in the sights as she attempted to parse out any differences that could alert her to something wrong.

“What is going on here?”

“Thank you so much! This is the best holiday ever!”

Scootaloo jerked her head in the direction of the voice. She knew that voice, her mind having developed a defense against it.

“Silver Spoon...” Scootaloo seethed through her teeth.

“Who?” Pip asked, popping up beside her.

The filly ignored him as she glared at the entrance to Sugarcube Corner. The door swung open and out walked Silver Spoon. Her smile as arrogant as ever. Diamond Tiara would soon follow, no doubt. They were inseparable. Bonded only by their egos and their hatred for blank flanks.

But to Scootaloo’s surprise, it was not an overbearing pink pony that emerged from the confection shop. No, it was certain white unicorn filly. One that utterly shocked Scootaloo into reality.

“Sweetie Belle...?”

-“Silver Belle”

That was all the proof she needed. Staring her right in the face. Sweetie Belle socializing with the likes of Silver Spoon. The pegasus gritted her teeth at this saccharine sight, feeling the ghostly knife in her back twist further and deeper. This is who Sweetie left her for? This was the best option she could come up with? Scootaloo felt that she should’ve been honored that no pony could take her place. But at the same token, as quickly as she was forgotten hurt all the same.

Maybe that was the “lesson” she learned back at Fluttershy’s place. Fluttershy didn’t want Minty to replace Pinkie with her. But here, Sweetie Belle didn’t seem to mind replacing her best friend with a mortal enemy.

“Trust me, squirt. I know that feeling of rejection too.”

Scootaloo’s eyes widened as her head jerked to the left, hoping to see Rainbow Dash smiling at her and wanting to take her home where it was warm and cozy. Instead, she got a face adorned with a scowling beak and eyes filled with disdain.

“Who...who are you?” Scootaloo managed to ask, realizing that it wasn’t the cold wind making her shiver.

“I’m no one special. Look kid,” the creature pointed a talon at the copper filly. “I’ve seen the way you drool

over Rainbow Dash. You’re making a mistake. She’ll dump you for the next piece of tail just like that!” The creature emphasised with a snap of her claws.

“Rainbow Dash is loyal! She’d never leave her friends behind!” Scootaloo snapped, suddenly feeling her idol surging through her. She remembered the stories Dash told her of the villains they had faced, and how she had helped to save the day by being there.

“She’s loyal to herself!” The creature let out a hawk-like screech as her wings unfurled. “She made the wrong choice, and she’ll have to live with that.”

“Don’t listen to that mean ol’ bugger!” Pip spoke up, waving a hoof. “She’s just upset because she don’t have a friend. Well I can be your friend!”

“Piss off, kid!” The gryphon snapped, slashing at the air with her claws. Pip flinched and fell back on his rump.

“Leave him alone you bully!” Scootaloo shouted, standing in front of the recovering pinto.

“Wow...you’re just like her. Shame really, you had potential.” Gilda shook her head as a smirk spread across her beak.

“I stand up for my friends!” Scootaloo snapped, holding her ground.

“Like they stood up for you?” Gilda sneered. “I saw what happened back there in the forest. The way they ditched you. I bet they won’t come back either.”

“Well...I’m still loyal to them, because I know that they’ll come around!” Scootaloo replied, her eyes filled with determination.

Gilda snickered, “Like you were loyal to Dash when that superhero came to town? I saw what happened.”

Scootaloo’s confidence deflated at the mention of that. She did seem to forget Dash in all of that hype. Was this how Dash felt when Mare Do Well took her glory?

“I know they’ll come back...” Scootaloo muttered, dropping to her rear. “They just got to...I’ll show you!” Her eyes narrowed in determination as she sprinted towards the two ponies. “SWEETIE BELLE! HEY!”

The unicorn, nor Silver Spoon gave any acknowledgement. Scootaloo stood on her hind hooves and waved her forelegs fanatically, whistling, shouting, and anything else she could think of.

“They can’t see me...” Scootaloo frowned, slumping to the ground once again. “Wait a minuet...” Scootaloo stuck out a hoof experimentally, and to her horror, it passed right through Silver Spoon. The gray pony shivered slightly.

“Did you feel a cold wind just now?” Silver Spoon asked, adjusting her blue framed glasses.

“No...but it is kind of cold out here,” Sweetie Belle nodded. “I sure do miss Scootaloo though...”

“SEE! SHE MISSES ME! I TOLD YOU!” Scootaloo stood and pointed, rubbing this moment of triumph in the gryphon’s ugly face.

“Such a shame that she died like she did...alone and forgotten...” Silver Spoon added, her voice filled with genuine sadness.

Scootaloo froze and fell to the ground. Her mind reeling as her stomach twisted. Strange thoughts surging all at once until they settled on the cold reality. Scootaloo’s eyes lit up in a moment of epiphany, and she sat up and turned to the pinto and the gryphon.

“If I’m dead, how can you see me?”

“Because during the winter solstice, the barrier between our world and the spirit realm is at its weakest,” a voice explained. The three turned to see Princess Luna swoop down and land elegantly. Her starry mane swayed in the breeze, highlighted by the glare of her aura off of the snow.

“PRINCESS LUNA!” Pip squealed, running over to give a nuzzle to the princess.

The dark alicorn looked down and smiled. “Hello, Dear Pip. I trust you are enjoying my night? Princess Celestia made the day shorter for just such an occasion.”

“Wait, wait...so how come they can see me, but Sweetie Belle and Silver Spoon can’t?” Scootaloo asked, trying to get back on topic.

“Perhaps it’s because you don’t want them to see you?” Luna suggested. “I notice you are very prideful, and your friends seeing you have passed on is scarring enough to them. You don’t want them to see you in your current state because you are ashamed.”

“Well, can’t you use your magic to bring me back to life?” Scootaloo asked, sounding more frustrated than she would’ve liked. She didn’t want Princess Luna to think her ungrateful.

Luna frowned, “Unfortunately, I cannot. Even magic as powerful as ours has its limits and rules. But perhaps I can appeal to make sure your afterlife is a joyous one.”

Scootaloo shook her head, “No thanks. I’d rather haunt here.”

“You don’t really punish the naughty ponies...do you?” Pip asked, his eyes wide and pleading.

Luna chuckled, “No, I do not. You have nothing to fear from me anymore.” The mighty alicorn turned and spread her wings, “Now I must return to my duties, as my sister does not know I snuck out to enjoy some of the festivities.”

Pip waved a frantic goodbye with his forelegs as Luna took off towards the castle in the distance, lit up with the royal holiday decorations and trees. Scootaloo remembered Twilight said that evergreen trees became part of the celebration because they were the only trees still green in the winter months.

“Twilight! She talked to me! She saw me!” Scootaloo remembered, her eyes filled with hope. “Maybe she can help me!”

“Probably just saw you’re dead body, twerp...” Gilda rolled her eyes. Scootaloo shot a dirty look at the gryphon, but sighed in defeat.

“Ah really enjoy helpin’ ya, Zecora! Ah’d never learn all this cool stuff with Applejack!”

Scootaloo looked up to see Apple Bloom bounding alongside Zecora, both wearing saddlebags filled with supplies.

“Indeed, in the solstice the spirits will roam

But us mortal ponies need comforts of home

If I do not get supplies before the snow will fall

I shall not leave again, for hunger will make it’s call”

“Hey Apple Bloom! HEY!” Scootaloo jumped in front of the two ponies, hoping that maybe she would have a better shot at being seen.

Zecora froze, her eyes wide in shock as her mouth hung open.

“What is this? I think I can see it

It appears to be a lonely, lost spirit

I hope perhaps, you can see it too

Because it is your friend, Scootaloo”

Of course she could see me...

Apple Bloom stared at Zecora and blinked, then turned her gaze to where the zebra was pointing. Sure enough, Scootaloo was standing there, a sheepish smile on her face.

“Scootaloo? Ah...ah thought you was dead.”

“Apparently I am...but Sweetie Belle couldn’t see me,” Scootaloo muttered, rubbing the back of her head with a hoof.

“Aw, Sweetie’s always been slow like that. Nothin’ personal...um...hey....I know it doesn’t change the fact that...well....that yer dead an’ all...but...” Apple Bloom began, trying to hold back her tears.

“Apology accepted,” Scootaloo replied...holding out a hoof. Apple Bloom slowly held out her own and reached towards the apparition. She felt stinging cold through her leg and into her body, but she wasn’t afraid.

“Come along now, Apple Bloom. Time has long past

The barrier between realms will no longer last

Say your goodbyes and apologies while you can

Or our journey in this weather will take a longer span”

“Goodbye, Scootaloo...and ah’m sorry. We all are. Ah should’ve believed you,” Apple Bloom sniffed, her eyes beginning to water.

“Well, it was kind of my own fault too. I shouldn’t let curiosity get the better of me,” Scootaloo conceded. “Just wish I would’ve known that sooner.”

“The future won’t be the same without you, Scoot...” Apple Bloom frowned. She turned and picked up her pace to catch up to Zecora, leaving the filly alone once more.

Scootaloo sobbed to herself, turning her bleary eyes to where Pip and Gilda were standing. They were gone. She really was alone.

“Time?”

The copper filly bolted upright and looked around, trying to find the source of the voice. Her eyes widened in horror when she saw a hooded pony standing before her, hoof pointed straight out at her. Its face obscured by its hood.

“Wha...wha....what are you?”

“Do you have the time?” The figure asked again. Scootaloo was to afraid to answer, only stare.

“Wait a minute...Apple Bloom said ‘future’, then you show up. So you must be...”

“OH! You got me! So much for keeping my secret then, eh?” The stallion smiled, looking a bit embarrassed.

“You’re all ghosts like me aren’t you? Taking form of things I know, and showing me the error of my ways!” Scootaloo struck a defensive pose, a look of anger in her eyes. “Well I don’t need anypony preaching to me!”

“What are you talking about?” Pip asked, sitting on the ground. How did they get back so fast? Or were they really gone? “We’re not ghosts.”

“Then how can you...”

“I think I can explain that,” the stallion cut her off. “Come with me!”

-“Holiday Treat”

“Ah, yes! The future! So many wondrous possibilities and outcomes! Why, the very fate of the world could rest on what color trousers you decide to wear today!”

Scootaloo cocked a brow at the odd behavior of the colt before her. His messy brown mane and hourglass cutie mark did nothing to show what he was good at, or who he was for that matter.

“I didn’t ask about the future. You asked me what time it was,” the copper filly shook her head. She glanced over to see Pip was busy admiring this strange pony while Gilda was rolling her eyes out of boredom.

“Yes, I did! See, rather we know it or not, we’re traveling through time as we speak! Each passing second is one step into the future! We don’t feel it for obvious reasons, but it’s marvelous all the same!”

“So if you aren’t ghosts, and I am...then...” Scootaloo’s head hurt as she tried to make sense of all this information.

“I’ve seen stranger things in my day,” the stallion replied. His smile looked kind of smug. Too smug for Scootaloo’s liking. Almost like....

“Anyway! I am, the Doctor! Nice to meet you, Pikachu!” The stallion bowed his head formally.

“Scootaloo...” the filly replied, narrowing her eyes.

“Right...so...you are a ghost, yet everyone can see you and...”

“Pony.”

“What?”

“Every PONY can see me,” Scootaloo reminded.

“Oh, you ponies and your grammar! Anyway, but you said your friends couldn’t see you?”

“Silver Spoon isn’t my friend,” Scootaloo’s voice took a dark edge. “She probably couldn’t see me because her nose is to far up her...”

“Hey now...” Pip cut the filly off before she could finish.

“Well it sounds to me that you are becoming the thing that you hate...” the Doctor nodded, his face taking a solemn expression.

“I’m being like my hero, Rainbow Dash!” Scootaloo replied, flaring her little wings out as far as she could.

“And doing it wrong apparently...” Gilda replied, rolling her eyes.

“Like you have room to talk!” Scootaloo looked ready to pounce before Pip came in between them.

“EVERYONE...er...PONY! STOP IT!” The Doctor stomped his hooves on the ground. “Now then...if you seem so intent on learning a lesson that we’re not even here to teach you...I suppose I could show you the future. IF you promise not to share what you know.”

“I didn’t really want to learn anything. But the future does sound pretty cool!” Scootaloo’s eyes lit up at the prospect of being the first pony of her class to travel through time.

“Very well then! Onwards and upwards!” The three of them proceeded to follow the Doctor, only for Pip and Gilda to be stopped at the door. “Sorry, this is a solo adventure. You all just have to wait here.” He flashed a smile, then glanced over his shoulder, “NO! Don’t touch that!”

In the blink of an eye, the machine that Scootaloo was inside of came to a halt. The Doctor opened the door and gestured for the filly to go first. She hesitated, but regained composure and took a step into the unknown. Everything looked the same as they left it, complete with the same decorations.

“I thought we were going into the future?” Scootaloo frowned, looking over to the Doctor.

“We are in the future, take a look over there.” He ponited to Sugarcube Corner, where Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash were seated at an outdoor table, talking and laughing.

“Well, at least Pinkie is okay...” Scootaloo nodded. “Don’t know why she would be in trouble over what happened to me though.” She approached carefully, not knowing if they could see her or not, and listened in.

“It feels great to be free!” Pinkie exclaimed as she turned her sapphire eyes to Rainbow Dash. “That Doctor is a nice pony, but kinda weird!” She swirled a hoof around her ear as her eyes went cross.

Dash chuckled, “You’re one to talk about being weird.” It was great to have her back, especially after all the pain she went through to get to this point.

“I was so upset, and worried that you were gone.” Pinkie continued, her eyes almost tearing up before she blinked and returned to her bright smile.

A cold breeze whipped by, causing the two to shiver. “Hey, wanna go inside?” Dash asked, nodding towards the door.

Pinkie nodded, “I’ll pour us some eggnog and we’ll warm up! OH! It can be that slumber party I wanted, but the others are busy...” the party pony frowned.

Scootaloo noticed Dash glancing around nervously, as if trying to think of something. “Well, I’m the pony who makes a sleepover fun anyway. So no loss, right?”

Pinkie nodded, her smile returning. Dash let out a sigh as she got up from the table. The two headed in, leaving Scootaloo alone to think about what was going on. She realized that the two were talking about an event that was yet to happen, and her eyes widened that the Doctor really did take her to the future. How far, though, was uncertain. She wanted to see more.

Pinkie sat the mug of eggnog in front of the pegasus, who looked deep in thought.

“What’s wrong, Dashie?”

“Oh, just thinking. I always get upset around the holidays anymore, because I always think of her,” Dash blinked, trying not to let any tears escape.

“None of us knew, Dashie. It wasn’t your fault,” Pinkie placed a hoof on Dash’s and rubbed it lightly.

“Yes it was!” Dash snapped, jerking her hoof away. “She idolized me! She looked up to me, depended on me to steer her right...and I left her to die...” Pinkie had never seen Dash so angry, especially at herself. “Some Element of Loyalty I turned out to be.”

“Rainbow Dash, that wasn’t your fault!” Pinkie snapped, sounding more forceful than usual. “Now cheer up already, it’s the holidays!”

“Ya know, Pinkie...I got something that would make this eggnog taste better,” Dash smirked, narrowing her eyes into a sly expression.

“Really? Is it candy? Ginger? OH! I know! Cupcakes!” Pinkie clapped her hooves together.

“Cupcakes in eggnog?” Dash muttered, then shook her head. “No, better. Hold on.” Dash darted over to where she left her saddlebags that were packed for Pinkie’s sleepover. Finding the item she sought, the pegasus gripped the top in her teeth and darted back to the table in the center of Pinkie’s loft. Dash sat it on the table with a loud clunk, the dark brown liquid sloshing inside as it reflected the light.

Pinkie’s eyes widened as she looked the ornate glass bottle, adorned with the image of a pony in captains garb. “This is neat! Where’d ya get this, Dashie?” Pinkie looked up, her blue eyes filled with curiosity.

“Berry Punch’s store. Never been in there before, but thought, hey, it’s the holidays right?” Dash shrugged. She needed a drink to escape those dark thoughts. “Anyway, she said this is good to mix in eggnog, so...”

“You’re the best Dashie! Always know how to make the party fun!” Pinkie dove forward and grabbed Dash in an awkward hug. The pegasus felt her face grow hot, the faint smell of cotton candy in her nostrils as Pinkie’s mane brushed her face. The pink pony released her captive and sat back down. She grabbed the lid in her teeth and the bottle with her hooves, giving a twist to pop it off. She carefully tipped the bottle over to pour the liquid into her mug. Dash’s eyes widened when she saw how much was going in, and her hooves shot forward to tip the bottle back up. Some of it almost spilt onto the table.

“Pinkie! Don’t bogart it! I spent good money on that, and I want some too!” Dash replied, jerking the bottle away from the giggling pony.

“Sorry, Dashie!”

Dash rolled her eyes and began pouring some into her own mug, frowning that there wasn’t much left.

Pinkie was already happily sipping away though her straw, not even flinching at the amount of alcohol she was consuming. Dash quirked a brow at this and took a hard sip of her own, immediately scrunching her face up at the bite. “Gha! Pinkie, how can you drink so much?”

“What do you mean?” Pinkie asked, her straw held gingerly between her lips as she spoke.

“I never knew you to be a heavy drinker,” Dash explained, shaking her head. The buzz of the liquor already creeping into her head. She blinked a few times to refocus and looked back at the pink pony. Dash cursed herself for not preparing for this sooner. Her lack of food intake and the energy she burned to get to Sugarcube Corner in record speed were now making the alcohol course though her system faster than normal. Not to mention the sweets Pinkie had fed to Dash were reacting badly in her stomach.

Dash grabbed her straw in her lips again, and gave another hard pull, her eyes shutting on reflex as the liquor buzzed through her head even harder now. She opened them to see Pinkie had already finished hers, looking a little tipsy, but not as out of it as Dash was feeling. The pegaus swore the room behind the pink pony was starting to tilt slightly.

“Ugh...I feel sick...” Dash rubbed a hoof on her stomach. “Cupcakes and alcohol do not mix.”

“Well, I feel fine!” Pinkie chirped. Dash glared at the pink pony, feeling a bit jealous at her insanely fast metabolism. That had to be it. No way she could eat as much as she did and not get fat. She could tell by looking in Pinkie’s eyes that she wasn’t entirely there. Even less than usual.

“You sure you’re okay? I had nowhere near as much as you, and I’m feeling it already,” Dash placed a hoof to her head. “I need something high in carbs.”

“Of course I’m fine, you silly filly!” Pinkie waved a passive hoof, almost falling over in the process. “WHOO!”

Dash grinned. Of course Pinkie can hide it, she always acts that way!

Pinkie staggered towards the stairs, hoping to get more cupcakes. But a misplaced hoof ensured that she made it to the bottom painfully. Dash rushed down the stairs to see if she was okay.

“Maybe you should sleep this off, Pinkie. Don’t want you hurting yourself now,” Dash placed her forelegs under Pinkie’s and clumsily lifted her off the floor.

Pinkie began giggling more than usual, her blue eyes glancing up to something hanging above them. Dash followed her look up to see something green hanging from the rafter.

“Uh...is that what I think it is?” Dash asked, feeling her face blush. She could feel Pinkie twist and struggle in her hooves, and before she knew it, a pink face was in hers. Dash’s eyes widened as she felt the pink pony’s soft lips press against her own. The sheer passion behind the kiss shown that this was not the alcohol controlling her actions.

Dash placed her hooves on Pinkie’s chest and shoved her away. The pink pony frowned at this, which for some reason, made Dash’s heart hurt. Maybe it was the booze.

“Well, uh...that was...um....nice?” the pegasus stammered, sounding more like Fluttershy than herself.

“I got plenty more where that came from, Dashie,” Pinkie replied, her voice slow and seductive. Her slurred words making Dash smirk a little.

“Yeah...you need to lie down,” Dash shook her head, trying to drag Pinkie back up the stairs. The volatile mix of cupcakes and rum in her stomach making her feel dizzy. Pinkie was dead weight as she continued to try and go the opposite direction, occasionally coming back around to nip at Dash’s ear.

“Pinkie stop it. You’re scaring me!” Dash brushed her away from sniffing her mane. “We shouldn’t have done this.”

“Oh, shush! I’d do you even if we weren’t drunk!” Pinkie replied, batting Dash with a hoof. This made the pegasus freeze in place.

“What?”

“I’ve always loved you, Dashie! When I heard what you did with Applejack, I was so jealous!” Pinkie shook her head, giggling again. “But I knew you would come around, and now here we are!”

Dash jerked her head around to stare Pinkie in the eyes. “How did you know about that?!”

“Duh! I know everypony in Ponyville! Word of mouth, silly! You’re quite the legend!” Pinkie giggled again.

Dash sighed. “I only came here for the sleepover, and I expected everypony else to show up,” Dash spoke, trying to fight the butterflies in her stomach. “You’re a good friend, Pinkie. Really, you are. But...I can’t commit to you like that.”

“Why not?” Pinkie’s eyes widened, a frown on her face that didn’t belong.

“I don’t want to hurt you like I hurt...” Dash trailed off, breaking eye contact with the pink pony.

“You didn’t hurt anypony silly!” Pinkie smiled again. “It may be our first time, but it won’t hurt!”

“That’s not what I...” Dash shook her head. “Never mind. Let’s get you to bed.”

Pinkie finally quit squirming and fighting, making the job much easier as the pegasus crested the stairs. She made a mental note to have a talk with Applejack about keeping secrets as she drug Pinkie towards the bed. A surge of dizziness hit and Dash felt her wings lock up. She hit the floor painfully, taking Pinkie down with her.

Pinkie began giggling even louder now, her pink tail brushing across Dash’s hind legs. She saw the pegasi’s wings begin to spread as Dash tried to fight the sensation. She felt a warmth pressing against her stomach, and a devious smile spread across Pinkie’s face as she began to slide lower. The sensation of her coat sliding along the pegasi’s most private of areas made Dash shudder slightly and let out a moan.

Dash threw her hooves to her mouth, hoping Pinkie didn’t hear that. She glanced down to see Pinkie gave no reaction, but was still continuing her seductive journey. Soon she was on the floor staring between Dash’s legs. The smell was overwhelming as it winked at her to come forth. Pinkie didn’t waste any time in meeting this request.

Dash’s pupils shrank as she watched Pinkie’s head dip down between her flanks. She felt a tongue slide gently up her thighs, rubbing the soft coat as Pinkie set to work. Each lick inched agonizingly closer to Dash’s wetness, up and down as Pinkie shown a surprising expertise.

“Pinkie...how do you know all of this?” Dash couldn’t help ask the question, feeling that gnawing at the back of her brain disappear.

“My job is to make ponies smile, Dahsie. No matter what it takes,” Pinkie replied, setting back to her work. Dash blinked, trying not to think too hard about that statement. She felt the party pony’s hot breath on her labia, and let out a sharp gasp. But Pinkie left again, running her tongue down the opposite thigh. The pegasus didn’t know if it was desire or the liquor, but her hooves reached out and grabbed Pinkie’s head, shoving the earth pony’s face right into her need. Pinkie let out a muffled yelp of surprise, but her eyes soon closed as she went to work.

The rough tongue scraping against Dash’s clit made her throw her head back and moan, her walls gripping for something to satisfy the void. Pinkie continued her work, lapping sloppily with humorously lewd noises that made Dash chuckle between moans.

“You don’t taste like raisin’s, Dashie!” Pinkie spoke up, glancing up to lock eyes with the pegasus. Dash stared into the sapphire pools as Pinkie began licking again, never breaking eye contact. Another rough lap at her nub made Dash shudder and she could feel her clit beginning to harden. Pinkie quickly took the nub in her teeth, tugging gently yet firmly, making Dash yelp and bite her bottom lip. Her eyes screwed shut as she moaned through her teeth, sweat forming on her brow. Another lick against the engorged nub and the pegasus threw her head back, not caring who heard her moan.

Pinkie could taste the juices pooling on her tongue. Spicy like a rainbow, but not as much as the real thing. Her blue eyes glanced down to the passage before her, winking and inviting. Leaving Dash’s sensitive area alone, Pinkie inserted her tongue into the gripping opening. She could hear Dash hiss through her teeth as her hips bucked forward. Her walls squeezing Pinkie’s tongue in their attempts to pull her in deeper.

The pink pony stopped before Dash was finished, and gave a sly smirk. “I got an idea!” She darted off to the kitchen, leaving Dash panting on the floor as her mind began to wonder what Pinkie had in store. Something involving food no doubt. She emerged from the kitchen, holding a rather large candy cane, complete with a red bow tied around the top. The tag hanging off of it read “TO: DASHIE FROM: PINKIE”

“Uh, Pinkie...you sure this is a good idea?” Dash asked, cocking a brow at the sight before her. Pinkie held up the candy cane, the end of it already wet with her saliva. The pink pony flashed a smile that had a streak of wickedness behind it, and lunged forward.

“I made this myself...” Pinkie panted as she went to work lapping at Dash’s clit once more. “Thought it would be weird if I asked Twist to make it.”

Dash chuckled as she shuddered again, Pinkie setting to work. The party pony wasn’t going to make the same mistake again, not after all that had happened. She glanced up to see Dash tossing her mane about, eyes screwed shut. She wants it, not like...

NO! Pinkie stops herself. She wasn’t going to ruin this moment with memories of past mistakes. Dash’s hips thrust forward, making her entrance wink against Pinkie’s snout as the party pony giggled. She was ready.

Pinkie pulled herself away, sticking the end of the candy cane in her mouth once more to moisten it again. She watched as Dash’s breathing steadied and she opened her rosy eyes to stare at the pink pony, pleading for more. Her face was flushed, all the way down to her shoulders. Dash brushed her rainbow mane from her eyes, slicked back with sweat. “Why...why did you stop?” she panted.

Pinkie giggled and pulled the confection from her mouth with a loud, purposeful pop. She took aim at Dash’s slit and looked up for reassurance. Dash nodded in conformation, so Pinkie pressed forward. The stickiness pulling at her damp flesh hurt in a good way, and the smooth sting of peppermint seeping into her folds gave Dash a strange numb sensation.

“OH SHI...” Dash grunted, her head jerking left and right.

“You like it when I stuff your stocking?” Pinkie giggled.

Dash glance down and blinked dumbly, almost losing the moment. A smile spread across her face as she shook her head. “Pinkie, just fuck me.”

Pinkie obliged, thrusting the sticky treat in and out. She couldn’t help but giggle at the sounds of popping flesh and the sucking sound of pulling it back out. Dash was panting harder now, her racing heart sending more of the alcohol into her brain at a faster pace. The room was spinning, but Dash couldn’t tell if it was from pleasure or being drunk. The thrusting had increased in pace, and Dash glanced down to see what was going on, forcing her eyes to stay open.

The tip of the candy cane was wiggling around inside of her as Pinkie struggled with the other end, putting the whole curve in her mouth and biting it off. Dash swallowed as the back of her mind pondered what this could imply. She gingerly chewed the candy, staring into Dash’s eyes, then slowly stood up on all fours, swaying slightly as she guided the other end of the candy cane to her own entrance.

Dash’s eyes widened as she could see the whole thing. The thick lips parting to make way for the confection as Pinkie gasped and giggled. She shook her rump a few times, enjoying the feel of the jagged edges against her walls. After a few more inches, Pinkie hesitated as if to stop the room from spinning, then slid her back hooves across the floor to hilt herself on the rest of the length.

Dash gasped as the weight of the pink pony fell upon her, now face to face. The odd combination of her cotton candy smelling hair, the alcohol and peppermint on her breath tinged by the sent of her own sex, drove Dash wild for some reason she couldn’t explain. Pinkie lunged forward and kissed Dash, sliding her tongue in as soon as there was a chance. Dash let out a muffled protest, but soon succumbed to the odd feeling of candy cane crumbs scraping across her gums. The mix of flavors was indescribable, but at the same time, made Dash’s temples throb as her alcoholic blood continued its journey.

Pinkie broke the kiss, a trail of crumbs and saliva falling between them. She thrust her hips, bucking Dash hard into the wooden floor. The pegasi’s wings were fully spread now, stiff and trembling as Pinkie reached out and gave them a gentle stroke. Dash jerked, her hips thrusting upwards as she gasped from the jolt of pleasure that shot up her spine.

“I made it to the North Pole!” Pinkie shouted in triumph as she began riding the candy cane, now made even sticker with her own fluids. The strange feeling of their clits sticking and pulling apart sent tiny shocks, as each of their inner walls began to tug for control of the ever shrinking treat between them. The burning of the peppermint gave a painless but hot sensation through their moist openings.

Only Pinkie would giggle during sex, and that was exactly what she was doing as she continued to ride the striped makeshift phallus between them.

“Oh yeah! Make me smile!” Pinkie began babbling. “Party with my Pinkie Hole! Ride that pie!”

Dash only rolled her eyes, which weren’t too far from the back of her head to begin with. With another thrust, Dash felt Pinkie clench around the candy, pulling it up with her as she began fucking Dash with her new peppermint penis.

“OH...” Dash bit her lip, twisting and writhing beneath her pink tormentor. She could feel the pressure building up within her stomach, her back legs stretching and twitching in preparation for the oncoming storm.

Pinkie began thrusting faster, her hooves reaching down to fumble over Dash’s now pert nipples. Soon they found their way to her wings once more, and a slight caress across the joint was enough to send Dash to the brink.

“AH! SWEET CELESTIA!!” Dash cried out as her body tensed and locked, hooves launching forth to pull Pinkie closer and deeper into her grabbing folds. Pinkie continued her rhythm, riding out Dash’s orgasm as she approached her own. The sticky combination of candy residue from the melting treat and their own juices cemented what was left of the candy cane between them as Pinkie shuddered, her tail going stiff and twitching as if something was going to fall.

Her Pinkie Sense rang true as she fell on top of Dash hard, her hooves slipping and losing balance. She began to laugh, cackling as her orgasm washed through her. Dash had never heard of a pony laugh while coming before, but it was music to her ears all the same.

Scootaloo stared in open mouth awe at what just happened. Hopefully the Doctor could make it to where she couldn’t remember what she saw. Though a small part of her didn’t want to forget.

“Well they don’t look too affected by my loss,” she noted with a nod. “What was the point of this?”

“Do you love me, Dashie?” Pinkie whispered, nuzzling her head under the pegasi’s chin.

“You know I do...” Dash replied, rubbing her hoof through the frizzy mane.

“Then say it,” Pinkie replied.

“I can’t...” Dash whispered, glancing away. “I can’t make that commitment.”

“Why not?” Pinkie raised her head and stared deep into Dash’s rosy eyes.

“I don’t like making promises I can’t keep. I already lost two friends because of that...I don’t need to...”

“You and you’re self loathing!” Pinkie snapped, her mane appearing to go flat. “All you think about is yourself!”

“I just don’t want to hurt you, Pinkie. You understand,” Dash began to get nervous.

“I always understood!” Pinkie shouted, violently pushing herself off of the pegasus. “I thought you would understand too!”

“What? Pinkie what are you...” Dash’s eyes widened and her pupils shrank to dots. Pinkie turned to reveal she was holding a large cake knife in her teeth.

“We could’ve had something together, but you kept pushing me away because you didn’t want to hurt me. You know how I get when I think my friends don’t love me anymore...” Pinkie inched closer, her words somewhat obscured by the knife.

“Pinkie, I’m sorry okay? I do love you...and that is why I can’t...” Dash was inching backwards across the floor. “It’s just the liquor talking...you don’t mean this...do you?”

Scootaloo looked away, tears stinging her eyes. She ran as far as she could so she couldn’t hear the

cries and screams. Once out of earshot, she looked up to the Doctor. His blue eyes were filled with a sadness she never noticed before.

“Am I responsible for all that?”

“Well...indirectly,” the Doctor nodded. “You have no idea just how much you meant to your friends and the others. Rather they knew you were homeless or not, they still cared for you.”

“I don’t want this to be the future. Is there...is there some way you could take me back?” Scootaloo looked to the Doctor with pleading eyes.

The Doctor sighed, defeated. “Only if you promise not to make the same mistakes.”

“I promise!” Scootaloo nodded, her smile almost outgrowing her face.

“Allons-y!”

-“It’s A Scootaful Life

Scootaloo’s eyes shot open, and the first thing she felt was stabbing pain in her chest. Her lungs burned with every breath, and she couldn’t feel her hooves or wings. Once her eyes regained focus, she saw she was in the Ponyville infirmary. The simple one room structure filled with cots wasn’t much, but served it’s purpose when need be.

“Scootaloo! You’re awake!” Apple Bloom cried out as she gave a flying leap to embrace her friend. Sweetie Belle stopped her, shaking her head.

“What happened?” Scootaloo managed to ask, noticing her jaw shivered with each word. She felt something frozen on her snout and her bones ached.

“Sweetie Belle came and got me to help as soon as she found you. You must’ve passed out in a snow drift. Why were you wandering around town alone anyway?” Twilight Sparkle asked as she entered the room. Her horn was glowing as she pulled two familiar looking colts behind her. Snips and Snails were being drug by their ears.

“You...you cared about me?” Scootaloo felt herself about to cry, but her eyes hurt to much to do so. That made her all the more upset.

“Of course we do! Ah may have been mad, but ah didn’t mean all that nonsense back there! Sweetie Belle helped to calm me down to!” Apple Bloom nodded to the unicorn filly, who blushed slightly.

Twilight frowned that Scootaloo was ignoring her question, but figured it a subject best saved for later. With a jerk of her head, her magic pulled Snips and Snails closer to the pegasai’s bedside.

“Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom told me everything that happened, and that these two were responsible,”

Twilight jerked them forward roughly and cleared her throat.

“We’re sorry Scootaloo...” Snips began, trying not to make eye contact.

“Yeah...I’m sorry to, eh,” Snails added, also looking away.

Scootaloo smiled, “That’s all i wanted to hear.”

“Of course, there’s the matter of you being involved to. So don’t think your off the hook either. I think I’m

going to have to give you some lessons about what you claim to have seen,” Twilight shook her head.

“I don’t care! All that matters is I’m here, and my friends are back! The others were wrong! I knew you’d come back for me!” Scootaloo smiled, even though it hurt to do so.

“Others? Who are ya talkin’ bout?” Apple Bloom quirked a brow.

“I saw Pip, and a gryphon, and...and that funny stallion with the hourglass...he took me to the future and...”

Scootaloo trailed off when she notied the others were staring at her.

“Sounds like quite the dream you had,” Twilight smiled nervously. Part of her wondered if Scootaloo was more affected by the cold than she thought.

“But...but...it wasn’t a dream...” Scootaloo frowned. The others turned and left the pegasus to rest. However, Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom remained, her eyes tearing up.

“I believe you...” she whispered, placing a warm hoof on Scootaloo’s frozen foreleg.

“So do ah...Ah saw yer ghost, remember?” Apple Bloom blushed slightly, as if she sounded silly for saying such things.

Scootaloo felt a tear run down her cheek, its warmth a stark contrast to the rest of her face. “Thank you...you guys...”

THE END

Happy Hearth’s Warming Everypony!

Open For Business

It was another bright and sunny day in Ponyville, and Rarity was just finishing up the latest of her dress designs. Oh sure she had commissions from popular ponies, as well as national exposure. But, the citizens of Ponyville themselves never really frequented the shop, which in a way disappointed her.

Rarity was a social pony, as well as very generous, and often wondered why she chose to set up shop here, of all places. She would get the same commissions and exposure no matter where her shop was located. She only remained because of her friends, and even they didn't shop here as often as they should. That was something that needed to be rectified, she thought as she began to straighten up some bolts of errant fabric.

Then she remembered that the place was called Carousel Boutique, after all. Perhaps it was time to put that last part of the name to work. Yes! She could sell other items besides dresses, and get to know the other ponies around town, much like Pinkie Pie's parties.

But what to sell? she tapped a hoof to her chin in thought.

“Ideaaaa!” she sang out. If you want to get to know ponies on a personal level, sell personal items. That was a given, but just what kind of personal items? She already sold jewelry, which was worn just about as much as her dresses. She stared at her reflection for a moment, her mind mulling over the types of objects she could sell, when she realized that a lot of the ponies in Ponyville found her very attractive. Putting two and two together, she figured that she would be generous enough to sell items that would bestow pleasure onto her friends and the other ponies. That way, those leering stallions could have their wish fulfilled without Rarity sacrificing her body to them.

She wondered how it would go over, the town being full of usually upright ponies. Then again, her own friends shown that they had quirks and kinks. Everypony was far from perfect, especially when that time of the month came around.

Soon, she began making a list of items to carry for such a purpose, humming to herself as the quill floated over the scroll. In the back of her mind, she felt that not only was she being generous enough to do such a risky thing to make the ponies happy, but this also would provide her a window into the minds of the ponies she barely paid attention to on the street. She bit her lip, wondering if this would be right. The guilt was maddening, but the prospect of spreading joy was greater. There was absolutely nothing wrong with nature.

She was amazed at the selection of stock there was to order from. Rubber toys shaped like the anatomy of other animals besides ponies. Chains....bridles...blinders....whips....even harnesses and saddles made for such “games”. The unicorn knew very well how perverse this simple act of nature could become, but that just made it more fun for them she supposed. She certainly wouldn't be subjected to saddles and whips like she was a common mule. That was the mindest of those dreadful Diamond Dogs.

Shaking her head, Rarity's mind wandered to another problem. She had to be sure to keep Sweetie Bell out of the room they would be kept in, as well as be discreet about her having such things without the other children in town seeing or knowing about them. She couldn't put flyers up all over town, that would be wrong.

Of course, there was also the matter of Pinkie Pie's big mouth. She smirked as her eyes fell on a selection of ball gags. No, she shook her head, that wouldn't be right. Besides, word of mouth would be good for business after all. Pinkie was smart enough to not say such things around children, she hoped.

So her new business venture began with a simple order form, filled to the brim with normal and kink alike. Rarity frowned at the list of depravity before her, but resigned to the thought that she didn't have to experience any of this, and it would probably be best if her clientele didn't relay the experiences to her afterwards. She did respect privacy after all, unlike SOME ponies.

Twilight Sparkle was trotting through town, having just finished shopping for food and magic supplies. The saddlebags draped across her back were filled with various fruits and vegetables, as well as some more esoteric items that she had to order from Canterlot. She doubted Ponyville would sell hazardous chemicals or dragon scales. If a pony didn't know better, they would think she was concocting a witches brew instead of magic spells.

She kept her eyes peeled for Rainbow Dash, who said she had a message for her. Soon she saw the rainbow maned Pegasus kicking clouds away, moving faster than normal as if she couldn't wait to get the job done.

“Hey, Dash!” she called. “What did you want to tell me?”

The sky blue Pegasus swooped down in front of the unicorn, her smile beaming as she stood upright in the air, her wings flapping faster than usual in anticipation.

“I just saw a buncha delivery ponies bringing a bunch of boxes into Carousel Boutique! I bet Rarity's planning something big. We should go check it out!” she threw her hooves into the air as she blurted out this news.

“I don't know. We really don't wear dresses all the time.” Twilight glanced away in thought.

Dash shook her head. “No, these didn't look like dressmaking supplies. Some of them were marked with weird labels and warnings. Maybe she's building a secret lab or something.”

“Don't be ridiculous.” Twilight replied dryly, shoving Dash off with a playful hoof. After the whole incident with Zecora, Twilight thought her friends learned not to jump to conclusions like that, especially insane ones. “Besides, if anypony is going to have a secret lab, it's me.” she sighed, placing the hoof she pointed to herself with back on the ground. “But I guess we can go check it out.”

Dash flipped in the air and was already heading there. Twilight rolled her eyes and followed, hoping that this wasn't more trouble than she needed right now. When she arrived, Dash landed in front of the door and gave a loud knock. Rarity quickly answered.

“Darlings, what is it?” she asked, glancing back and forth at the two confused faces at her door.

“What'cha got goin on in there, Rarity?” Dash asked, trying to glance over the unicorn's shoulders into the shop, but was obscured by Rarity's head at every turn, nearly culminating in her getting a horn in the eye.

“Oh nothing dear. Just renewing my inventory.” she glanced around to make sure no other pony could hear, then leaned in close, her blue eyes narrowing suspiciously as she whispered. “You're my friends, so you're the first to know. I'm starting an actual 'boutique' business now.”

“But you sell dresses.” Twilight observed. “Isn't that was a boutique is for?”

“Yes, darling, but they can also be so much more.” Rarity waved a hoof. “But how many ponies here actually WEAR my designs? No, darlings, I'm going into the novelty business!”

“Well, Pinkie Pie would like that. Buying all her pranks and stuff.” Dash nodded.

“No no no! ADULT novelties!”

Rainbow Dash gasped as if Rarity had said some horrible word or insult. “Can you do that?” she asked, her voice cracking with surprise.

“What are adult novelties?” Twilight asked, eliciting stares and uncomfortable silence from the other two, the only sounds now were Dash's beating wings and the blood rushing to Twilight's face as she blushed under the scrutiny.

“Seriously?” Dash asked, turning to face the purple unicorn, who was now staring at the floor.

“Shall I explain it to her, dear?” Rarity volunteered.

“Nah, I'll do it.” Dash waved a passive hoof then flew over next to Twilight, whispering in her ear. After a few long minuets of hearing nothing but feathers rustling and muffled whispers, Twilight's gaze snapped up from the floor as she gasped in surprise, her blush growing a deeper shade of red. “You want to sell, THAT?” she finally asked, now understanding what 'adult novelties' meant.

“Well, of course. Is that wrong?”

“Well, no...but, it doesn't seem right either.” Twilight explained.

“Oh, you two just don't understand yet.” Rarity shook her mane and tail elegantly as she spoke. “Someday you two will find colts of your own, then it will all make perfect sense.”

“Yeah...colts...” Dash managed a weak chuckle as it was her turn to blush and glance away in embarrassment as she rubbed the back of her head.

“Until then, I would appreciate the word of mouth advertising you could provide for me. I can't very well hang up such advertisements with children around.” Rarity continued, poking at her coiffed mane with a hoof absentmindedly.

“Well, okay...” Twilight reluctantly agreed, not that this was something you would go telling everypony anyway.

`“Excellent! See you then!” she ushered the two out of her shop and slammed the door, eager to get to work.

Twilight and Dash exchanged worried glances. “Well, what could go wrong?” Twilight sighed, glancing up at Dash hovering beside her wearing an expression more of confusion than fear.

Raiders of the Back Room

Sweetie Belle stood looking in confusion at the newest addition to the boutique. It was a large black curtain, obviously sewn by Rarity herself, hanging in front of what she assumed to be a room. Her innate curiosity began to get the better of her, and she inched forward, wondering what was back there. Part of her felt like she was doing something wrong, which made it all the more thrilling to peek. Was it a surprise for her? After what seemed like eternity, she was finally close enough to grab the curtain string in her teeth and pull it. Just as she was about to tug, she felt herself being lifted off of the ground by a gentle touch of magic.

“No, no, darling! You're not allowed back there.” Rarity explained, though she didn't sound mad as she gently sat the unicorn filly back onto the ground.

“Awww, why not?” Sweetie complained, forcing her big green eyes to water somewhat in one of her precision guilt trips. She should know by now that it doesn't work on her big sister.

“Because....well, I'll explain it when you're older.” Rarity waved a hoof, hoping that her abrupt dropping of the subject didn't' pique the little filly even more. The last thing she needed was her little sister robbing herself of her innocence because she couldn't take no for an answer.

“Is it a surprise for me?” the filly asked, her green eyes lighting up with hopefulness.

“Heavens no!” Rarity snapped. “In fact, if I had my way, you'd never get involved with that stuff! You are my little sister after all, and I have to protect you. Now go play with your friends.” With that, Rarity planted her hooves on Sweetie Belles rear and scooted her gently out the door.

When the door shut behind her Sweetie Belle found she was even more curious than before.

Maybe I can get my friends to help me! her eyes lit up at the thought as a smile played across her face. With that, she galloped off towards the clubhouse.

A few moments later, the bell over the door rang, signaling a new customer. Rarity emerged from behind the counter to see none other than Lyra. The aqua green unicorn bearing a harp as a cutie mark, looked nervous about asking her question.

“How can I help you dear?” Rarity asked, turning on the old salespony charm.

“Well,” Lyra rubbed her front hoof against her other foreleg as she glanced at the floor. “Bonbon said that you were selling....um.....things. She said she wanted to try something new....”. This poor girl was obviously worried about being judged, and she subconsciously brushed her white mane from her eyes and smiled weakly.

Rarity tried to hide her surprise. Here she thought those two were just really good friends. Perhaps this business venture would reveal more about the complex lives of the ponies she barely even gave a nod to on the street. This worried her. Such a responsibility was not to be taken lightly, especially when the customers violated the privacy rule.

“Well, was does she like?” Rarity asked, placing a hoof on her chest as if to calm her suddenly sped up heart rate. She then brushed her own curls out of her eyes, blinking innocently as she hoped that question didn't come off as too intrusive.

“She....she likes it rough....you know....” Lyra began to blush. For a pony who didn't wear clothes, it sure felt strange airing dirty laundry.

“Oh, well I have just the thing for that! Follow me!” Rarity's tail bounced as she trotted elegantly to the black cutain that moments ago thwarted Sweetie Belle and her curious nature. Even her cat Opalescence wasn't that nosy.

Meanwhile in the little ramshackle tree fort the Cutie Mark Crusaders spent most of their time in, Sweetie Belle was giving the other crusaders the low down on what was going on.

“So Rarity's got this room now, and she says I'm not old enough to see what's inside of it.” the unicorn filly explained as she tried to keep her balance draped over the multicolored ball.

“Won't grown ups ever learn?” Scootaloo asked through a mouthful of crayon as she looked up from her latest drawing, this one possibly more unsettling than the last batch she did for Cheerilee's art class. Scootaloo never seen the teacher so worried, and she could only smile. “The more you say we're not allowed to see something, the more we want to see it!”

“Ah don't know.” Apple Bloom replied, her face displaying nervousness. “Last time Applejack told me that about somethin' and I looked anyway, I got a switch to the flank.” she rubbed her flank with a hoof as if the memory brought the pain back in all it's stinging glory. She swore she could still feel the welt on her skin.

“Rarity would never do that!” Sweetie Belle's eyes widened, her shock causing her to roll off the ball and land hard on the wooden floor.

“I heard Rainbow Dash telling Twilight that Rarity had toys back there!” Scootaloo remembered, a smile crossing her face. She was walking by to the clubhouse when she saw Dash and Twilight engaged in a discussion. She didn't know it was a continuation of Twilight's education from when they were in the boutique, all she heard was toys.

“What kind of toys?” Apple Bloom asked, raising a brow in suspicion.

“I don't know! But maybe they she has those new robot pony toys that transform into things! Those are so awesome!” Scootaloo began to ramble now.

“That doesn't seem like something sis would be into.” Sweetie Bell replied, shaking her head. She rubbed a hoof through her pink and purple mane, checking to make sure she didn't hurt herself too bad when hiting the floor.

“Well, there's only one way for us to know for sure.” Apple Bloom spoke up. The three placed their hooves in the middle of the huddle and recited their mantra once more.

“CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS BACK ROOM EXPLORERS!”

Season 2 Announcement

DISCLAIMER: Thank you all for the overwhelming support over the course of Season One! Thanks to the dedicated base, production values have increased. As such, no more foalin around! What started as a trollfic, accidentally gained a deep plot through character interaction alone! With a few seasons worth of threads to wrap up out of the first season alone, this should be a fun ride! As such, the clop will be graphic this time. You deserve it! So stay tuned!

Life Is A Box Of Chocolates

Here we are, face to face... the gray filly sang to herself as she looked around the playground for her best friend. Silver Spoon paused at the thought that Diamond Tiara was her only friend, and that made her a little sad. Despite her best attempts to emulate her pink friend's behavior, Silver Spoon just wasn't as in to it, and she didn't know why.

She had also noticed that one of the Cutie Mark Crusaders was missing from class. Not that she figured Scootaloo to be the learning type in the first place, though she did admire the way the pegasus carried herself. Whereas Silver Spoon blindly followed Diamond Tiara's lead, Scootaloo was her own filly.

Speaking of Diamond Tiara, the pink coated filly with her well styled purple hair finally made her approach. A huge grin was spread across her face, and that told Silver Spoon that something must've happened to somepony. She had gotten good at reading Diamond's body language, though she didn't always like the reasons for it.

“Silver Spoon, did you hear the news?” Diamond asked, her voice dripping with an odd combination of sarcasm and enthusiasm that Spoon hadn't heard in a while. This gossip must be really juicy.

“Uh....what news?” the gray filly asked, adjusting her glasses.

“One of our resident Blank Flanks got raped! Word on the street it was Scootaloo! Couldn't have happened to a nicer filly if you ask me!” Diamond exclaimed, her grin splitting into a full smile of porcelain covered teeth.

Silver Spoon was horrified. Whatever Fruedian excuses she had told herself Diamond had long ago, did nothing to explain the sheer joy the pink filly now had at such news. Rape was every mare's nightmare, and for it to happen to a filly was frightening. Yet, here was Diamond Tiara, actually smiling that it happened to a Blank Flank.

“Well, that would explain why she hasn't been in class for the last week,” Silver Spoon nodded, trying to act like she agreed with Diamond's position, no matter how much it twisted her stomach.

“We should totally go find her and laugh! Serves her right for being such a....well ya know,” Diamond shook her head, but her voice didn't lose that sarcastic whine. “I didn't think she even liked colts anyway! I mean, you've seen how she drools over Rainbow Dash!”

Silver Spoon had stopped listening after the word 'laugh'. Her best, nay, only friend couldn't be that heartless, could she?

“You coming?” Diamond Tiara's voice snapped Spoon from her thoughts.

“No, I'll catch up,” Silver Spoon waved a hoof, shaking her head.

“Alright. Don't be late!” Diamond giggled at her latest idea, making Silver Spoon cringe a little.

Silver Spoon glanced around the playground once more, and saw Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom talking amongst themselves. The latter looking around as if to make sure their conversation was secret. This piqued the gray filly's curiosity as she tilted her head to the side. She needed to ease her nagging conscience.

If anypony knows that Scootaloo is okay, it's those two, Spoon bit her lip as she made sure Diamond Tiara wasn't around. Last thing she needed was the pink filly to ridicule her for speaking to the Blank Flanks. Spoon sighed, and began her slow approach.

“So Twilight was all mad because we got the sheets all dirty, and it was funny to see her all grossed out because she laid in a wet spot and....” Apple Bloom paused when she saw Silver Spoon staring at her. “What do you want?”

Silver Spoon rubbed her leg with a hoof. “I was just wondering if....she was okay....”

“Who?” Sweetie Belle asked. The adorable blank look in her eyes shown she wasn't kidding.

“Scootaloo,” Spoon replied. “I....I heard what happened....and I was just wondering if she was okay.”

“Why would ya'll care anyway?!” Apple Bloom snapped.

Silver Spoon flinched. She kind of deserved that. She didn't want to be mean to them, especially now. But that behavior was the only way to keep Diamond Tiara around. Of course it didn't mean she couldn't have a heart and be concerned for the well being of a pony who had a horrible experience.

“I was....just worried...is all....” Silver Spoon explained, glancing away. “I'm sorry...”

The grey filly walked away. Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle looked at each other, confusion at what just happened. Did Silver Spoon really care?

“Silver Spoon, wait!” Sweetie Belle squealed, catching up to the retreating filly. Silver Spoon paused and turned back around, her equally grey eyes wide with surprise. “Scootaloo is okay. I think she would be happy to know that even somepony as mean as you cares about her.”

“I'm not totally mean...” Silver Spoon glanced at the ground. Instead of getting a reply, she glanced up to see Sweetie had run off back to Apple Bloom.

The bell on top of the red schoolhouse rang, signaling the end of recess. As the fillies and colts all headed back to class, Silver Spoon couldn't help but notice that Snips and Snails were acting a bit strange. She noticed Snails was glancing around, his teeth clenched as if he was expecting retaliation for something terrible. Snips was cowering behind his friend, hoping that nopony saw him at all.

What's got them so unnerved? Silver Spoon tapped her chin with a hoof. Though Snails does look cute. Wonder what has him so scared? The grey filly regained composure as the two slowly walked by, still keeping an eye out for anypony. For a brief moment, Snail's eyes locked with Silver Spoon's and he gave a weak smile and a nod. Silver and Snails had gotten to know each other over the last few weeks, but she had a reputation to keep. She felt bad lying to both Snails and Diamond Tiara about what was going on, but it was the only way. At least for now.

Shaking her head, Silver Spoon followed the two into the school. Everypony took their seats and awaited today's lesson from Cheerilee. Spoon glanced over to see the new student, Pipsqueak, sitting next to Sweetie Belle. She couldn't help but giggle at how the little brown spotted pinto was staring at the unicorn. Spoon then noticed that Snails was staring at her in the same fashion, and blushed slightly.

“Okay class, everypony settle down!” Cheerilee commanded as she prepared for the next lesson.

Twilight sat at the table in the library kitchen, staring at her reflection in the coffee. Spike stood nearby, nervously playing with his claws, blushing slightly.

“Sorry I forgot to change the sheets, Twilight,” Spike had said for the umpteenth time that day.

“That's not the problem, Spike,” Twilight groaned as she slumped back in her chair. “It's just...I never wanted this job. Now I'm looking at all my friends and random ponies like they're criminals. I don't know who to trust anymore,” she leaned forward and buried her face in her hooves.

“You'll figure it out, Twilight. You always do,” Spike tried to be reassuring.

“That's just it, Spike! This isn't some logic problem or test to pass! This is serious! Lives are on the line, and if I fail.....” the unicorn shuddered slightly. “I don't want fail Pinkie or Scootaloo. I couldn't live with myself if I did.”

“Don't say that Twilight,” Spike patted her on the shoulder. “I believe in you.”

Twilight mustered a smile. “Thank you, Spike.” Her glance drifted to the basement door. “How's Pinkie holding up? She's been awful quiet.”

“Uh...well....the Doctor kind of gave her some of your....sleeping pills...so....” Spike replied, glancing away.

Twilight sighed. “How many times have I told him not to go through my stuff?” She rested her face in her hoof, trying to get her mind straight. “For all I know, he could be a suspect too. I don't know anymore.”

“Don't beat yourself up over this. The fact that you're even trying shows you care. You don't have to force yourself to succeed,” Spike tried to hid the urgency in his voice. The last thing he wanted was Twilight going off again.

“Do you realize how difficult this is, Spike? Pinkie's life hangs in the balance, and if I can't prove she's innocent she could DIE!” Twilight felt the individual hairs of her mane begin to stand on end as the rest of her coat bristled in fright. “I have to do this!”

“You have to be a good friend and show Pinkie she's not alone in all of this. Show her that you have faith in her and that will be more than enough.” Spike nodded. He knew his words fell on deaf ears.

“This is my job, Spike! I can't just up and quit! If it wasn't for me, Ponyville wouldn't have any authority at all!”

“It never did before you got here. Crimes like this don't happen often.” Spike shrugged.

“EXACTLY! Twilight shouted as she slammed her hooves on the table. She was growing more unhinged. “It's not like I can just pick up a book about rape and learn everything about how to solve it and.....” Twilight paused....”Wait! Nurse Redheart! She might know how to go about this! Maybe I can get Scootaloo to get checked out, get some DNA and....”

“Twilight, you're losing it again...” Spike sighed.

“No time, Spike! I've got a job to do!” Twilight was out the door while the idea was still fresh.

Spike grumbled to himself. “Guess I'll just eat lunch alone then...”

Twilight galloped through Ponyville, her mind reeling with why she never thought of confiding in Nurse Redheart to begin with. She was helpful with checking out Minty so she would be the obvious choices....Wait! How did everypony else find out about Pinkie raping Minty to begin with? Another mystery on top of the one she was dealing with, and the one that was unfolding....great.

There was no time to worry about that though. Finally at the makeshift infirmary, Twilight jerked the curtain aside and rushed in. “Nurse Redheart!”

The nurse pony turned and eyed Twilight curiously. Uniform code mandated that all nurse ponies keep their manes up so as not to interfere in their work. Twilight didn't notice that this nurse had blonde hair.

“Sorry, dear. Nurse Redheart is off today. I'm Nurse Tenderheart.” the white mare replied. Twilight's eyes glanced to the nurse pony's cutie mark to see a heart being held by a blue teddy bear who had been bandaged up.

“Oh....uh. Well, maybe you can help me. You see, there's been a rape and...”

“Oh my! Well they should come in immediately.” Tenderheart gasped.

“It happened a week ago, but I was wondering if it was possible to get a DNA sample or...”

Nurse Tenderheart shook her head. “Unfortunately, the longer you wait, the less likely we'll find anything. Natural processes and all.”

Twilight nodded, somewhat expecting this answer. Then she realized that there may not be books on rape. But there's bound to be something about a genetic analyzing spell. If not, she could make one. Frustrated that she wasted her time, Twilight turned to leave, but was stopped by Nurse Tenderheart.

“Have you been getting enough rest?” the gray mare asked, looking over Twilight.

“Well, not really. Stress and all...” Twilight lied. She wasn't going to mention the wet spot.

“That's bad for your health, dear,” the nurse shook her head slowly.

Twilight quietly groaned at this delay, rolling her eyes. Then she realized something. “You or Nurse Redheart haven't said anything about a patient here named Minty, have you?” Her eyes grew hopeful that if she found the source of who spread the word Pinkie had raped Minty, she could at least quell that issue.

“No. Patient confidentiality forbids us sharing any personal knowledge without written consent. Did you know this, Minty?” Nurse Tenderheart tilted her head slightly.

“Not personally. But she was treated here. I was just curious.” Twilight sighed. “Somepony knows something and told everypony else.”

“That's terrible!” Nurse Tenderheart gasped. “Rest assured if there are any information leaks here, we will tend to them.”

“Thank you. Keep me posted.” Twilight nodded, glad that she at least has one source of information.

Another day, another performance at the park. Lyra tried to focus on her music as she always had done, but her eyes kept drifting off beyond the sparse crowd of ponies to where she saw that poor filly. If only she had stopped the show to help. She should've seen it sooner, but by the time she realized what had happened it was too late. That nice lavender unicorn bringing it up only made the memories more painful, and she could hear her music start to suffer from the emotion in her magic. Her eyes returned to the crowd, focusing on two ponies in particular, both of whom wore pained expressions of their own.

Much to her relief, she managed to save face and pluck the final notes. A smattering of applause became quickly drowned out by the frantic and loud hoofclaps of the two special ponies in the crowd. Lyra frowned when her eyes fell on Sonata. Brief thoughts of her not being safe out here flashed in the unicorn's mind, causing her to tear up slightly.

Bonbon had come up beside her, catching Lyra off guard. “Lyra, dear. Are you okay?”

The unicorn could only nod, her face still wearing a frown. Her golden eyes rose up to lock with Bonbon's own cyan orbs. The candy pony could see the pain behind the eyes of her love, and couldn't help but hold back tears of her own. “I should've helped that filly, Bonnie...”

“That's all in the past now. Besides, you are helping her. You told Twilight all she needed to know to find whoever did this.” Bonbon tried to be reassuring. “Come on, I got some more wine waiting at home.”

Lyra smiled slightly, then shook her head. She couldn't wrap her mind around why she was becoming an alcohaloic all of the sudden, but didn't really care. “I'm just worried is all. What if whoever did it tries again? You could be hurt, or Sonata...” her voice trailed off.

Bonbon placed a hoof under Lyra's chin and brought her back up to meet her gaze. “Twilight is taking care of things. Relax...for my sake....please...” she leaned forward and pressed her lips to Lyra's, causing the unicorn to close her eyes as her troubles melted away.

“HEY LYRA!” Sonata cried out, snapping her back to reality. Bonbon jerked away quickly, blushing and hoping she hadn't been caught.

“Yes, dear?” The unicorn looked at her second biggest fan with a genuine smile on her face.

“Are you going to be here again tomorrow?” the blue filly asked, bouncing with excitement.

Lyra glanced over to her love, who only nodded in approval. She turned back to Sonata and smiled. “Yes, I will be. Same time?”

“You bet!” Sonata squealed, then trotted off to her mother waiting at edge of the park. Bonbon noticed Lyra was keeping a closer eye on the filly than usual during the departure phase.

“She'll be okay. I'll be okay. Let's go home and relax.” Bonbon placed a hoof across Lyra's shoulders to guide her along, as the unicorn's attention was still fixed on the blue filly.

The trip home was pretty uneventful, and Lyra was all to happy to know her and Bonbon were safe. She didn't know why this news had her so on edge, but accepted it as a plausible excuse for more wine. Lyra noticed Bonbon staring at her somewhat seductively, but she wasn't in the mood. At least, not yet.

“Why don't I make us some lunch, dear? You'll feel better,” Bonbon began walking towards the kitchen. Lyra could only nod.

Bonbon entered the kitchen and frowned at seeing Lyra in this mood. Her blue eyes trailed off in an attempt to reason why. She gasped when she remembered a certain part of Lyra's past that had been divulged to her. Of course! Why didn't I see it sooner? Bonbon facehoofed. She saw the bottle of wine and gravitated towards it, grabbing it up to bring to her lover in need.

The cream colored pony reemerged from the kitchen, holding the bottle of wine by the cork in her teeth. She placed it on the table before Lyra and sat next to her.

“I've been a terrible pony. I should've known sooner. Sorry if I told you to get over it.” Bonbon apologized, nuzzling close to the unicorn. She wasn't even annoyed that Lyra was sitting in her normally unnatural position.

“It's okay. I thought I actually did for a while. But now that this happened, all those memories came back,” Lyra turned her watering eyes to her lover. “I just don't want Sonata to suffer like I did.”

“It's understandable. But she has good ponies like us looking out for her. She'll be fine.” Bonbon nodded, a smile on her face. The cream pony stood, leaving Lyra suddenly feeling cold and alone. She trotted to the stairs and began to ascend them, stopping halfway to shake her flank at Lyra's glance. “Come up and see me sometime...”

Once the earth pony was gone, Lyra's eyes glanced at the bottle of wine. She closed her eyes as her magic went to work, uncorking the bottle and raising the glass she had grabbed from their minibar. The unicorn stared at the glass for a long moment as her conflicting thoughts continued to swirl around like so much fog. With a shrug, Lyra snatched the bottle from the bubble of magic it was held in, and began gulping it down with abandon.

Bonbon lay on their bed, hoof idly swirling around the sheets. A sad sigh escaped her lips as she was about to give up hope. Lyra stumbled into the bedroom, a dopey grin plastered on her face. She reeked of wine, which prompted the earth pony to shake her head in disappointment.

“Lyra, seriously. I'm starting to worry about you.” Bonbon frowned, shifting around on the bed so Lyra could join her.

“I'm fine...” Lyra slurred, her breath smelling of sour grapes. “I just want you is all...”

Bonbon blushed slightly. She was honored to have been Lyra's first, and only love. It was also her that broke Lyra from the shell she had built around herself after that terrible incident. Bonbon had instructed Lyra in the ways of proper sex, and the unicorn never looked back.

Their lips met, and Bonbon's eyes widened at the bitter taste of wine. Did she drink the whole bottle?! Before she could respond, Lyra had already shoved Bonbon onto her back, straddling her hips violently. The earth pony was suddenly afraid at Lyra's new attitude, but was somehow also thrilled by this forcefulness. She felt the wetness sliding against her thigh as Lyra tried to shift into position, her stupor making it hard to tell which Bonbon was under her at the moment.

Bonbon tried to get comfortable, but the weight of her partner made it impossible to move as Lyra took a more aggressive approach. Soon, Lyra gasped as her engorged clit came into contact with Bonbon’s own need. The pleasure amplified by the alcohol coursing through her body as she forced her nub against her lover’s. The earth pony gasped with each new sensation, the smell of wine pouring from Lyra’s pores made her all the more amorous for the rough way she was being handled. Bonbon reached up and grasped Lyra’s hips, pushing her deeper into their embrace and increasing the friction on their already burning loins.

The unicorn leaned forward as she pressed harder, her eyes screwed shut as she continued to thrust forward, begging for release from all her troubles. Her stupor made her unaware to anything but her own desires, which made it all the more surprising when she felt a tongue begin to swirl around her horn. Her eyes shot open to see Bonbon, straining her neck to reach. Lyra lowered her head to make it easier for her lover. The earth pony obliged this gesture, and took the horn deeper into her muzzle, her tongue tracing the fluted appendage as Lyra’s addled brain sent the pleasure throughout.

Lyra could feel herself twitching against Bonbon, who was already moist with pleasure. Their clits pressing together as she picked up speed. The pleasure from both ends was intense as her muscles seized and ached, her thighs gripping like a vice on the pony under her. Her horn began to run hot, causing her to sweat even more than she had been. Finally, she let out a moan of pleasure, her body shuddering from the intensity. Bonbon could feel the twitching against her own lips, the heat from the juices coating her thighs. The warmth of the horn in her mouth sent sparks of magic dancing across her gums, the sensation working its way through her body and down to her own need, making her moan. Lyra shoved Bonbon’s hooves into the mattress, holding her prey captive. Finally, with one last thrust, the unicorn fell forward, a quivering mass of emotions both good and bad. Her sudden fall almost choked Bonbon as she released the horn from her muzzle, noticing faint sparks falling from the tip. Bonbon shuddered as well, her own release adding to the mess as she felt her inner walls clenching on their own, grasping greedily for more desire.

“Feel better now?” Bonbon gasped, glancing down at the teary eyed unicorn upon her.

Lyra could only muster a weak nod. Her energy drained more than usual as her body tried to overcome the hangover.

“You always knew how to treat a goil,” the earth pony smiled. “I’m glad I could be there for you. But you really need to stop drinking.”

Lyra rolled her eyes at the thought of being scolded like a filly. But she wouldn’t have it any other way.