The Derpy I Know And Love 4 or And The Children Shall Lead

by Stormbringer

Rating: mature
Tags: Alternate Universe, Romance, Slice of Life, Human
Length: 47366

The torch is being passed to a new generation. New loves, new lives and new losses.

Children grow up and take the place of the generation before them.
Part of the process is love and loss. All the hero's of Ponyville must come to terms with the changes that time brings.
Some changes are expected and others are never even dreamed. As well as revelations that nopony would have ever guessed.
Also, some of the past of Dawn is brought to light as well.

Cover art modified from: http://www.deviantart.com/

Published 1970-01-01 00:00:00 UTC
Last updated 2013-04-17 04:01:25 UTC

PART ONE OF: AND THE CHILDREN SHALL LEAD: Comeing of Age

Chapter One: Spin The Bottle

PART ONE OF:

AND THE CHILDREN SHALL LEAD

Coming of Age

CHAPTER ONE

Spin The Bottle

Dinky Sparkle, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon were in the old Cutie Mark Crusader clubhouse.  Now that all had their cutie marks, all but Apple Bloom, the club had folded, and there were no more remarks about ‘Blank Flank’ with Apple Bloom being so proud of it.  Some how it made her feel special after Twilight Sparkle explained that it must be a very special talent if it was taking this long. The tree house was now their hangout and place for overnighters, like this evening.

Ever since Twilight Sparkle had come to the defense of Diamond Tiara and prevented her from being expelled from school and shamed, Diamond had softened up on her treatment of the CMC.  Silver Spoon was the first to come over to being friends because of how Diamond had first treated her when she spoke against the way Diamond was ranking down Dinky’s mother.

Then after a new colt moved to the school and started belittling Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon because of, in his words, ridiculously vain and useless cutie marks, Dinky Sparkle, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo came to their defense, not wanting to see anypony bullied.  Diamond did concede, however,  that wearing a tiara all the time was a little over the top, and now only wore it on special occasions.

The six fillies were now inseparable.

That next month was the graduation dance; they would all be moving on to the Ponyville High School the next year.  All were excited because this would be the first year that they would be allowed to go to a school dance accompanied by a colt, a real date!  Thanks to Sweetie Belle, they would all be getting fancy new dresses by the now Equestria famous designer Rarity.

They were all talking a-mile-a-minute about how exciting it was going to be and how many colts had asked them out.  Then as it goes when girls get silly, they started talking about holding hooves and kissing, who had kissed whom and at what age.  As it turned out there were a lot of stories about a little peck on the lips behind the school or down by the swimming hole.  But none had taken it any further.

“So none of you have done a tongue kiss?  You know, like you see in the movies,” asked Silver Spoon.

“Who has to watch movies?  My moms kiss that way all the time!”  Said Dinky, “you would think that they were school fillies!  Even Sparkler and her coltfriend never kiss like that in front of Dawn and me!  It is almost gross..... almost.”

“My parents aren’t that wild,” said Silver, “but they do get carried away sometimes.”

“That is only because they love each other,” said Sweetie Belle, “my sister and Applejack behave the same way, don’t they Apple Bloom?”

“Oh yes!”

“You think that is something?” said Scootaloo, “I sometimes have to get a crowbar just to separate Rainbow’s lips from Pinkie’s so I can get a flying lesson!”

All laughed except Diamond, this did not go un-noticed.

“What’s wrong, Diamond,” asked Apple Bloom, “don’t your parents kiss in front of you and your brother?”

“No,” Diamond replied sounding a little down, “dad says that public displays of affection are improper.  Even in the home.”

“I’m sorry,” said Sweetie Belle.  She was feeling sorry, no, she was feeling compassion for her one time adversary who now was a close friend.  “We did not mean to say anything to upset you.”

“I’m not upset,” said Diamond, perking up a little, she felt a flutter with Sweetie Belle showing concern about her feelings.  “I do kind of wish they would act a little more romantic.  I know if I had a pony to love, I would not act like I had to hide it from everypony.”

The two looked at each other, an appreciative smile on both faces.

“Well I don’t know if the dance leads to kissing,” said Apple Bloom, “I am kind of afraid if it did.”

“Why is that,” asked Silver Spoon.

“I don’t want a date to think that I am some little filly who doesn’t know anything about dating.”

“But we don’t know anything about dating!” said Dinky.

They all laughed.

“We could practice,” said Sweetie Belle.

“What do you mean?” asked Diamond, intrigued.

“My sister told me that when she was our age, she and her friends would practice kissing.”

“Seriously?” asked Apple Bloom.

“Seriously!”  Said Sweetie Belle, “she said that it was kind of fun.  They played a game called Spin the Bottle.  They would sit in a circle one would spin a bottle in the middle of the circle.  The pony it pointed at when it stops they had to kiss.”

“Gross!” said Silver Spoon. “Kissing another filly!  That isn’t right!”

Dinky Sparkle, Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom and Scootaloo looked at Silver Spoon.

“Really?” asked Dinky.

“Oh yes,” giggled Silver, “I forgot.  Didn’t mean anything by it.”

All started to laugh.

They thought about it and decided to give it a shot.  They had all settled down in a circle.

“If we are going to do this, we have to do it the right way.” Said Sweetie Belle, “tongues and all.  No need to do this if we don’t”

They all agreed, they decided to spin the bottle and what ever pony it stopped on would go first, Sweetie Belle gave the bottle a spin, it stopped pointing at Apple Bloom.  She spun the bottle around and around.  ‘Not Diamond Tiara,’ thought Sweetie Belle.  The bottle slowed and stopped pointing at Dinky.

Apple Bloom and Dinky blushed, leaned forward, they put their lips together.  Then it was evident that they went to the tongue part.  Then just as quickly the parted.

“That was not as bad as I thought.” Said Dinky.

“Not that I would want to do that with you that often!” said Apple Bloom.

All laughed.

“Your turn Scoot,” said Sweetie Belle.

“Okay, let’s do this right!” Said Scootaloo, trying to sound like Rainbow Dash.

She spun the bottle with gusto.  ‘Not Sweetie Belle,’ thought Diamond Tiara.  It took a bit for it to slow down, and then it stopped on Silver Spoon.  Silver blushed and looked nervous.  But she leaned quickly into Scootaloo and planted a large wet one on her.  Scoot was not ready for such an aggressive start, but she soon recovered and was performing as close to the way she had seen Rainbow and Pinkie.  They quickly broke the kiss; Silver blushed even more, and giggled.

“That was different,” said Scootaloo.

“I guess that leaves us,” said Sweetie Belle to Diamond Tiara, she was trying not to show how happy she was with the situation.

“I guess so.” Said Diamond Tiara, making sure that her face did not give away how happy this made her.

Slowly Sweetie Belle and Diamond Tiara’s lips met.  Sweetie felt Diamond’s lips part, her tongue tentatively entered her own mouth, and she did the same.  They explored the other’s tongue back and forth.  She had hoped for this from the first suggestion of the kissing game.  She was afraid that Diamond would not respond.  Sweetie could feel however, that Diamond was in no hurry to stop.  Sweetie Belle felt the impulse to pull Diamond closer, but fought it.  Her heart was starting to pound.  She realized that they had taken longer than the others and pulled away.  It was hard to hide that she was having trouble breathing normal.

“Ewwww!” exclaimed Diamond.

All laughed.  Sweetie laughed as well but was disappointed with Diamond’s reaction.

The night went on with more gossip, talks about the latest colt-bands and of course, lots and lots of snacks.  It was getting late and at last the yawns became infectious.  So they decided it was time to roll out the sleeping bags and turn in.

Sweetie Belle had trouble in going to sleep, she kept thinking of the Diamond Tiara and the kiss.  It had to be well after midnight, she had lay there for a couple hours when she decided that she could not lay there anymore.  Sweetie listened to the slow breathing around her, after she was sure all were asleep, she crept out the door and stood on the little porch that surrounded the clubhouse.  Propping herself up on the railing with her forelegs, Sweetie watched the little wisps of clouds floating past the face of Luna’s moon.

“I couldn’t get to sleep either,” came a voice from the other end of the porch.

“Diamond, I didn’t see you there.”

Diamond walked over and propped herself on the rails by Sweetie Belle.  They stood there is silence; both could tell the other had something to say.

“Don’t hate me Sweetie Belle,” said Diamond.

“Why would I hate you?  We worked through all that stuff in the past.  We are best of friends now.”

“But I am afraid that I embarrassed you when we were playing Spin the Bottle,” said Diamond, not able to look Sweetie Belle in the eye.

“What makes you think that?” asked Sweetie.

“Because I held the kiss so long and then said ewwww afterward.”

“It is okay! everypony laughed.” Said Sweetie Belle, becoming intrigued, “I wouldn’t keep thinking about it.”

Diamond finally looked at Sweetie Belle, there was confusion in her face and it was hard to tell in the dark, but Sweetie thought she saw a tear in Diamond’s eye.

“That is just it,” replied Diamond, “As I lay there, I could not get your face out of my mind.  I can’t stop thinking of, of....”

“Of what?”

“I can’t stop thinking of kissing you!” She said, rushing her words, she was having trouble looking Sweetie Belle in the eye, “when you suggested the game, I had really wanted to get to kiss you.  You have always been a good friend since we put the past behind us.  You are cute and I just feel so happy when you talk to me or laugh with me.  I am glad our desks at school are next to each other.  When you aren’t looking, I watch you work, just to see the little smile you give when you figure out a problem.  I think how much I would like it if you gave me that smile.”

Diamond paused and looked away.

“See, you hate me!”

“Diamond,” said Sweetie, not sure how to continue, “I am out here because I could not sleep.  I had you in mind when I suggested Spin the Bottle. I know it sounds silly, but I was even trying to figure how to cheat so I could get to kiss you.  And I really enjoyed the kiss, and I can’t stop thinking about it, and you.  I watch you at school too.  When we are on the playground, I am really disappointed when I don’t get chosen to be on the same team as you.  I don’t know if you notice at lunch, I try to sit by or across from you all the time.  When I can’t, I don’t feel that hungry for my lunch.  I would rather watch you and listen to you than eating.”

Diamond looked back at Sweetie Belle, her face looked happy, she put her hoof on Sweetie’s then the two looked deep into each other’s eyes.  Both sat back on their haunches, as close as they could to each other.  Sweetie put a foreleg around Diamond’s neck they both leaned in, their lips met, their tongues again exploring the other’s.  Diamond’s forelegs wrapped around Sweetie Belle, Sweetie Belle did the same.  The world vanished; they could not tell if it was warm or cold outside.  The only thing they felt was the warm filly they were holding and a hunger in their soul they had never felt before.

They could not tell if they had been at it a few minutes or hours.  But they broke the kiss, panting and sighing.

“Wow!” whispered Diamond.

“I felt it too,” said Sweetie Belle.  “I don’t want to stop.”

“Me neither.”

They kissed again, perhaps not as long.

“We better go back inside before they catch us out here.” Said Sweetie Belle having trouble controlling her breathing.

“Do you think they would make fun of us?” asked Diamond.

“No, but I don’t think I am ready to deal with what others might say.  Our friends are trustworthy, but I don’t know if I want to answer questions I don’t understand right now.”

Diamond agreed, they kissed quickly once more and then the two went back inside stealthily.  They placed their sleeping bags next to each other and on laying down, fluffed them up so nopony could see them they were facing each other, happily holding hooves.

The next morning the girls were up early, after gathering their things they walked to the main house at Sweet Apple Acres.  There Granny Smith had a breakfast of apple pancakes and fresh milk waiting for them.  After thanking Granny for the breakfast and Applejack, Rarity and Big Mac for letting them stay.  All but Apple Bloom headed out.  Scootaloo flew of to her home at the Ponyville Children’s Home.  One by one they dropped off until it was only Diamond and Sweetie.  After the others had gone, the two walked as slow as possible, not wanting to rush away.  They walked close enough that their flanks would bump, the contact felt nice.

“Diamond,” said Sweetie Belle, not sure what she really wanted to say, “I feel funny asking this, but if I don’t now, I don’t know if I could work up the nerve later.”

“Ask me what?”

“I am not sure how this is done, but I would really like it if you would be my (mumbled)friend.”

“I am your friend,” said Diamond.

“No, I mean would you be my fillyfriend.”

“Oh!” said Diamond.  “I want to say yes, I really do, but I need to think about it.  You remember how my dad acted with Bon-Bon and Lyra, not to mention Twilight and Bubbles or your sister and Applejack.  I would not be rushing home and announcing it, but I don’t want to be dishonest.”

Sweetie looked dejected.

“Oh Sweetie don’t!  I am not saying no.  I really, really, really like you! I would like nothing better to stop and kiss you some more!”  Sweetie Belle perked her ears up some, “and I am not saying that I would not like to go the movies with you, or have some sleepovers.  But for right now, we need to think about it or at least think about how we are going to do this.”

“Okay,” said Sweetie Belle, “I can respect that.  I guess we both need to think about this.  Would you mind if I asked Rarity about this.  She can keep it a secret, and I would feel a lot better talking to her instead of mom and dad.”

Diamond nodded, and then the two of them looked around to see if any pony was near, seeing the coast was clear.  They exchanged, in their opinion, too small of a kiss.

Chapter Two: Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle

CHAPTER TWO

Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle

After the girls had left, Apple Bloom cleared away all the dishes and went about her daily chores.  Applejack watched and thought how big Apple Bloom was getting; she was not just a little filly anymore.  She was talking about going to a dance with a colt, and getting a new dress from Rarity.  There was something that was bothering A.J.  It was something that had been bothering her for a long time, and something that needed to have been said before.   But it was not easy and she was not sure how Apple Bloom would take it, plus she was not sure how to do it.

“What’s bothering you Darling?” said Rarity.

“What do you mean, Sugar Cube?”

“You have been watching Apple Bloom like she was leaving or something.”

“I have put something off for far too long of a time and I think it is time to say something, to Apple Bloom,” then she looked at her wife,  “and to you.”

“What Darling?”

“It is just with the dance coming up and Apple Bloom wanting to go with a colt.  It is bringing back things from the past that have been hidden.”

“If you are afraid of some colt hurting her, I don’t think you have anything to fear.  There is not a stallion in Equestria who would dare cross you, that is if they wanted to live afterward!”  Rarity giggled, “I doubt any colt would not think twice of hurting your sister.”

“There is more to it than that.” Sighed A.J. “We have not talked about colts yet and I know that they teach such things at school.  Cheerilee is a good teacher, but there is the personal side as well.  And, as I said, there is something else.”

A.J. walked off out the door.  Rarity had learned to let A.J. be when she got pensive like this.

“Oh Darling,” Rarity said to A.J., knowing that she could not hear her, “It will be fine, what ever it is.”

Later, A.J. asked Rarity if she would help her to make a dinner of all of Apple Bloom’s favorites.  She then asked Big Mac to look in the barn for a box with some certain photo albums.   Lastly, she and Granny Smith went into the old pony’s bedroom and talked for a couple hours.  Rarity thought she heard crying and was not able to tell if it was Applejack, Granny Smith or both.

Later that evening, Apple Bloom was treated to a dinner she had not had the likes of in a long time.  It looked like everything was cooked just for her.  After, there was fresh ice-cream that Big Mac had been churning all afternoon.  Apple Bloom was not yet cynical enough to be suspicious of being buttered up.  To her surprise, Big Mac said he would clear and wash the dishes.  She, Applejack, Rarity and Granny Smith went in the family room to talk.  Applejack had Apple Bloom sit in the middle of the couch with Rarity on one side and Granny Smith on the other.  A.J. then went to scoot a chair in front of them but Rarity moved it with her magic.  It was nice to have a unicorn around the house.  A.J.  looked flushed, and Granny Smith kept an eye on her.

“Apple Bloom, I guess you might be wondering why we did the dinner we did and that Big Mac is doing your chores.”

“I don’t mind!  He can do the dishes anytime he likes!” she said.

They all got a chuckle out of it.

“I bet Sugar Cube, but we need to talk about a couple of things, and with the dance coming up, I figured it should be now.”

“I know about boys sis! Miss Cheerilee gave a talk on all that.  And you don’t have anything to worry about.  I have no plans for anything like that.” Said Apple Bloom.

“We know you don’t.  And we trust you in that, but that does not mean that something couldn’t happen.”

“Like what?” asked the filly.

A.J. paused, fortifying her nerves.

“Do you know what happened to me when I was twelve?”

“You mean when you were hurt by a stallion?”

Granny Smith had a guilty pain cross her face.

“Yes, but do you know how he hurt me?”

“No, you have never said.”

“Sugar Cube,” said A.J. not sure how to put it, “do you know what....what rape is?”

Apple Bloom’s face went pale.

“No sis, he didn’t!”

“I am afraid he did.  After that I could not stand to be near any colt, other than Big Mac for a very long time.”

“Is that why you married a mare?”

“No, I married Rarity because I love her, not because she is a mare.” Rarity smiled, “but it is why I never went out with colts.”

“Don’t worry sis, I will be careful.”

“We know you will, we have no doubts.  But there is more to this than a warning to be careful."

A.J. took a deep breath.

“I know you have no memory about ma and pa.  They were gone before you could remember.  But what do you know about them, how they died.”

“I’m... I’m not sure.”

Granny Smith placed a photo album in Apple Blooms lap.  She had seen the album before but not in a while.  They leafed through the pages of all the family photos, obviously, she was not in any of them.  Toward the back there was a carefully preserved clipping from the Ponyville Express telling how the old Ponyville Bridge collapsed while Mr. and Mrs. Apple were pulling a wagon load of apples to market.  The couple was killed in the cold swift water.  Apple Bloom noticed the tears in A.J.’s and Granny Smith’s eyes.

“We have another album to show you, I know you have not seen this one before.”

Granny put another album on top of the other.  There were pictures of a young Applejack.  Rarity saw it right away and understood, the realization made her gasp.

Apple Bloom leafed through the pages; she could not help but giggle.

“Hey sis, you were a porker when you were little!”

There was a pause.

“I wasn’t fat.” Said Applejack quietly, and then turned away.

Apple Bloom looked confused.

“What do you mean?”

“Look at the news clipping again.”  Granny Smith said as she lifted the album to expose the other

“Yes, what about it?”

“Look at the date.”

Apple Bloom looked at the clipping, and then she looked again.  It looked like she was doing the math.

“Yes, that was sixteen years ago.” Said Granny.

“But I am only fourteen!”

Granny Smith lay the other album down and turned to another page further back.  There was the young Applejack, propped up, sitting on a hospital bed.  In one shot she was cuddling a little foal, and another showed her smiling and holding the foal up for the camera.  The one that brought the point to light for Apple Bloom was the shot of Applejack lying on her side, nursing the infant.

Apple Bloom looked at Applejack.  Tears were streaming down A.J.’s eyes.  Rarity had reached out a put a hoof on her wife’s leg.

“What are you trying to say sis?  Who is the foal?” Asked Apple Bloom, not sure if she wanted to hear the answer.

“The foal is you Apple Bloom,” Applejack was trying not to ‘loose it’ long enough to finish what she was saying.

“Oh dear Apple Bloom, I am not your sister...... I am your mother.”

There was a stunned silence as Apple Bloom let it sink in.

“But why am I only now hearing this!”  Apple Bloom was not sure if she needed to be hurt, excited, confused, thrilled or ashamed.  Applejack broke down crying harder than Apple Bloom ever saw her cry.

“Sweetie,” said Granny Smith, “your sister, oh sorry, your mother was only twelve.  She was not much more than a foal herself.  To place all the responsibility of raising a young’en on her was more than she would have been able to do.  Plus we did not want ponies thinking anything bad about her, like it was her fault.  So I decided that we should just let ponies think, and you as well, that she was just your big sister.”

“But why did you not tell be before?”

“Apple Bloom,” said Rarity, “I have known your sister, or your mother that is, since we were little foals.  This is the first I have heard of this.  I do remember when everypony thought she was just a fat little filly.  But I also remember that there was not a time I could think of when Applejack did not take care of you, play with you and protect you.  She raised you as well as any mother would, the title is just extra credit.  I have always known that she loved you dearly, I only now know now the depth.  Don’t judge her too hard, Sweetie Belle has always been envious or your relationship with Applejack.  I now realize that there was no way I could have ever competed.”

Apple Bloom sat there trying to take it all in.  Applejack got up and walked to the window and looked out.  Rarity walked over to her, placed a foreleg over her shoulders and laid her head against her neck.  You could still hear the sobs.

Apple Bloom looked at the album again, Granny turned the page, there were pictures of Applejack and herself doing all kinds of activities.  Applejack was feeding her, bathing her, changing her diapers, rocking her to sleep and just playing with her.  Apple Bloom thought hard, she could not think of one thing that a mother would do that she did not see in these pictures.  She thought back, she could not think of one time that Applejack was not there for her.  She looked up at Applejack, her own tears were starting to flow, her heart was pounding with new excitement and realization.  Apple Bloom handed the albums to Granny as she got up and walked over to A.J.

“I wish I knew about this sooner, but looking at all those pictures and remembering back as far as I can,”  Apple Bloom paused, A.J.’s eyes were locked in Apple Bloom’s. “I don’t think I could have been prouder to be raised by anypony else.”

Then choking back a sob;

“Thank you...... Mama.”

A.J. grabbed Apple Bloom and hugged her so hard that Apple Bloom thought she would suffocate.

“My darling, darling baby, I could not be prouder of you!  I have wanted to be your mother for such a long, long time!  Forgive my weakness, forgive my cowardice, forgive me, my darling, beautiful daughter.”

Rarity joined the hug; Apple Bloom threw a foreleg around Rarity as well.

“I am so lucky,’ said the filly, tears of joy streaming from her eyes, “this morning I was an orphan, tonight, I have two mothers!”

Apple Bloom woke up warm and happy, it had been years since a bad dream or a storm had made her crawl in the bed with Applejack.  Now that Applejack and Rarity were married, Applejack’s bedroom was understandably off-limits.  But that night, the rules had been set aside.  Apple Bloom felt the warmth of a pony on either side of her, forelegs holding her from both sides.  She opened her eyes and saw the both Rarity and Applejack were awake, just looking at her.

“Good morning sleepy-head” said Rarity.

“Good morning precious,” said Applejack.

“Are we going to get sappy now?” giggled Apple Bloom.

“I have years to make up for,” said A.J. “Give me this for now.”

“I was only kidding,” said Apple Bloom, “I have always loved you.  But now I have reason to love you more.  I am so excited to now have a mother, and one who has been my best friend all my life.”

Both A.J. and Rarity kissed Apple Bloom on each cheek.

“So, is this going to be just between us, or can I tell my friends?”

“You can tell the world if you wish,” said A.J. “We can go by Twilight’s after while and send a letter to Princess Celestia if you want.”

“Oh No!” exclaimed Apple Bloom.

“What’s wrong, Sugar Cube?  Don’t you want to tell the princess.”

“No, it is not that!  Is just that Sweetie Belle is no longer my sister!  She’s my aunt!  And I am a few weeks older that she is!”

They all laughed.

“I think we should get up and get started.” Said Rarity, “this would be too easy to get use to.”

“Applejack, oops! I mean Mama...” stammered Apple Bloom.

“It is alright, it is going to take some time for all of us to get use to this.”

“Okay, but I was going to ask, what do I call Rarity?  She is my Mama too, now.”

“Darling, call me what you want.  I did not think that I was ever going to be a mother at anytime.  Don’t get me wrong!  I am so in love with the idea of having a daughter.  And I can't think of any better daughter to have.”

A.J. and Rarity kissed Apple Bloom’s cheeks again.

“Oh moms!”

They all laughed.

“Okay, time to get up and get ready for school.” Said A.J., “and now you really do have to do as I tell you!”

“No problem Mama!  I do have a question.  Now that you two are my mothers, is it alright If I move in with you?”  asked Apple Bloom with an honest plea in her eyes.  “I have years to make up for too.”

A.J. looked at Rarity.  Rarity only smiled and nodded her head.

“Sure Sugar Cube,” said A.J., “we would love to have our daughter move in with us.  When we are at the cottage that is.  At the farm, you are already here!”

“I love my Mamas so, so much!” said Apple Bloom giving A.J. and Rarity a kiss on the cheek.

The rest of the morning was full of laughter.

Apple Bloom wanted to wait to tell her friends before the rest of the kids at school.  She had asked them to meet later at the clubhouse so they could talk.

Sweetie Belle said she would come by early to so she could talk to Rarity about an important matter.

Sweetie Belle put her books and saddle bag away quickly.  She was looking forward to going to the clubhouse.  Diamond Tiara was going to be there and maybe she would be able to walk her home.

Sweetie was headed to the door and called out;

“I will be back later!  Going to Apple Bloom’s!”

“Well try to be home in time for dinner!”

“Okay mom, I will try!”  Sweetie Belle had no intention of hurrying home if she could spend even a few moments alone with Diamond Tiara.

It had been so hard in class not to just sit and look at Diamond.  But when she did, she would see Diamond looking at her.  They exchanged smiles and turned back to their work.  They had to try hard not to be obvious at recess and lunch.  They wanted to be alone together, but their friends would have known something was up if they did not hang out with them.

Now she was rushing to Sweet Apple Acres to see Rarity.  Rarity had been spending a lot of time there lately.  It was between fashion seasons and during these times She and Applejack would stay at the farm so A.J. could be closer to her work, during those times Rarity liked just being a housewife for Applejack.

When she arrived at Sweet Apple Acres, she went right in.  She was family and was told she did not have to knock, Applejack saw her enter.

“Hello Sugar Cube,” said Applejack, then she turned and called up the stairs, “Apple Bloom!  Sweetie Belle is here!”

Before she could tell A.J. that she was there to see Rarity, Apple Bloom called out something that made her pause.

“Okay Mama!  Tell her I will be right there!”

“Mama?” asked Sweetie Belle looking at A.J.

“I think Apple Bloom has something to tell you.” Said A.J. with a smile.

“I think so,” said Sweetie.

Just then Rarity walked in the room.

“I actually came here right now to talk to Rarity, if she had some time.”

“I always have time for you, Sweetie Belle.”

“Can we talk somewhere private?”

“Okay,” said Rarity, then turning to her wife, “is it ok if we talk in our bedroom, Darling?”

“It’s your bedroom too.”

“Thank you dear,” said Rarity, and then she gave A.J. a little kiss.  “Come up with me Sweetie.”

Apple Bloom met them on the stair.

“I will be at the clubhouse in a bit,” said Sweetie, “I need to talk to Rarity about an important matter.”

Rarity perked her ears up at that.  They walked to the bedroom, entered and Sweetie Belle closed the door after them.

They sat on the edge of the bed and Rarity looked at her sister to let her know she had her attention.

“So what is the ‘important matter’?”

“Rarity, this is not easy for me and I figured it would be easier to ask you than mom and dad.”

“Is this about the dance?  You have questions about boys and how to act?”

“Kind of, but not quite,” said Sweetie, “it is kind of personal, I guess for me and you.  So I will just come out and ask, and don’t take it wrong;

But with you and Applejack, how is a mare being in love with a mare different than being in love with a stallion?”

“Are you asking about feelings? Or lifestyle? Or the physical side?”

“Yes,” said Sweetie Belle.

“Well,” started Rarity, swallowing hard, “as far as feelings, love is love.  There is no difference.  Some ponies never understand that.  But to love a pony is to love a pony.  Yes there are ponies that look for relationships between the same gender simply because they are the same gender.  Bon-Bon and Lyra Heartstrings might be such ponies.  And down deep, there is nothing wrong with that, it is their choice.  Applejack and I are different, we love each other for who the other pony is, not what they are.  The same can be said about Twilight and Bubbles Sparkle.  Rainbow and Pinkie Dash are a different story.  Rainbow might be the first kind of pony, Pinkie is kind of neither.  But they love each other all the same.

Lifestyle, of course, takes a little getting use to, there are still some ponies that don’t approve, and would try to make things hard on us.  But it is my choice and if I love Applejack, it is just part of the relationship to deal with any issues that might come up.

As far as the physical side.......”

Rarity paused to collect her thought as to how to put it delicately, but glancing at her sister, she noticed a look in her eyes.  Rarity could tell that there was more to this than just curiosity.

“This is not about Applejack and me, is it?”

Sweetie looked at the floor, she was blushing a bit.  A curse that Rarity suffered from for having a very light coat color.

“I was sitting in class during study time, I heard some of the fillies talking about colts.  They were talking about the differences between mares and stallions.

We had just had a lecture about how evolution had, at the same time that ponies became intelligent, their anatomies had changed.  Unlike lower animals, the genitalia had become not as obvious.  The fillies were talking about colts and how it kind of excited them talking about it.  I started to become concerned that I did not see the reason for the excitement.  I just couldn’t see what the big deal was, I was almost revolted with all their talk of colt’s ‘things’.

Yes, I do think some colts are cute, and some are good friend.  However, I have never thought of any of them as ‘desirable’, either anatomy or personality wise.

But I have never, in any way, been drawn to fillies either,”  Sweetie said pausing, “in general.”

“In general?” asked the big sister.

It was Sweetie Belle’s turn to swallow hard; she paused and decided to just come out with it.

“At the sleepover the other night, we were talking about the dance coming up.  We started getting silly and it was brought up things that could happen.  Kissing was brought up and everypony was talking about if they had kissed anypony before.  The most was just some little peck on the lips like silly little fillies might do.  Then Silver Spoon asked if anypony had done a tongue kiss, nopony had.  I then mentioned how you told me about you and your friends practicing kissing with the Spin the Bottle game.”

Rarity blushed a little, but she figured that she and her friends were about the same age when she had first played the game.

“I happened to be last and the only other pony was Diamond Tiara, and I was glad, I was actually hoping for that.  When we kissed,” Sweetie started to blush, “I really liked it.  Not the kissing as much as kissing Diamond Tiara.

After everypony had gone to sleep, I could only lay there thinking of Diamond, so I went out on the porch of the clubhouse to think about it.  As it turned out, Diamond Tiara could not sleep either.  We talked about what we felt.  It turned out that we felt the same.  I don’t think we intended to, but we started kissing again, this time without other ponies watching, it was a good long kiss, several kisses actually.  We knew that we could not just sit out there all night so we turned in, but we hid that we went to sleep holding hooves.  After the sleepover, I walked Diamond home.  I asked her if she would be my fillyfriend.”

Rarity did not know what to say, she knew that her sister was getting older and it was healthy to be exploring relationships.  And she certainly had no right to say anything about her sister liking another filly.

This was indeed had been a couple days for revelations.

“Sweetie Belle, are you sure about this?  I want to know up front if this choice is because of my relationship with Applejack?” asked Rarity.

“No sis, I think that I have felt this way about Diamond for a long time, even when she and Silver Spoon use to give us a hard time.” Said the filly, “I was always so disappointed because I felt that Diamond could be a nice pony and I thought that I could really like her.  I guess I was starting to have feelings for her then.”

“I see,” said Rarity, “I am glad to hear that, but you do remember what trouble Diamond’s dad tried to make when you all got in that fight and were suspended.  Are you ready for ponies to stick labels on you like ‘mare-lover’?”

“I know all this, and she knows it too.  It is just that I think...”

Sweetie Belle mumbled something.

“You think what, Darling?”

“I think I am in love with her.”

Rarity sat back.  She had always tried to be open about love.  She had, in the past, never given into the idea the there was an age limit to when you could feel real love for a pony.  To her, a filly Sweetie Belle’s age was as capable of feeling true love for a pony just as one Granny Smith’s age.  But it was hard not to cloud the issue because it was her ‘little’ sister.  And she was starting to feel like a big hypocrite when she put into the equation that her little sister was talking about loving another filly.

“Now, when I think of Diamond,” Sweetie said starting to blush ever brighter, “when I remember seeing her and with a flick of her tail I see her….. “down there’, I start feeling the way the fillies did when they were talking about colt’s ‘things’.  My ‘down there’ feels funny.

No other filly gives me this same felling, I don’t even pay attention to them.

Am I a freak or some kind of morally sick pony.  Am I a mare-lover?”

Sweetie paused again, Rarity was seeing that her sister was fighting back tears.  Then she asked;

“Did you have feelings about mares before you and Applejack got together?”

“No Sweetie, I had only went out with stallions.  And before you ask, I did have sex with some of them in the past, and I had, for the most part, enjoyed it.  At that time I cannot think of a time that I ever wanted to be intimate with any mare.

But then I started to realize that I had feeling for Applejack, deep feelings.  She and I would bicker all the time, it turned out that our bickering was a way for us to interact without having to accept the feelings we had for each other.  You see, she was feeling the same for me.

Applejack had, shall I say, only one experience with sex before.  It was when she was young, and it was a very bad experience.  From that time she had nothing to do with sex at all.

I will say that when we confessed our true feelings for each other, the thought of pleasing her became important,  I had never wanted to be intimate with a mare before, and it was not about being intimate with a mare.  It was about being intimate with a pony that I had come to realize that I was truly in love with.  At that point, it was not about having sex, it was expressing my fillings for her by wanting to please her and show that her happiness and well being was very important to me, and she did reciprocate.

I would not worry about you thinking you are a mare-lover.  Like me, you are drawn to a female, not because you like to check out females, but you are drawn physically to a pony that you care for.  I would be surprised if you would have come to me to tell me that you loved Diamond Tiara but you did not want to be with her, intimately.”

Rarity paused to collect the thoughts.

“Sweetie Belle, I am glad that you did come to me about this.  Not that I don’t think that mother and father would not understand.

And do not let anypony tell you that your feelings are sick or demented.  As I said earlier, love is love, and if you love somepony it is only normal to be attracted to them physically, and want to please and be pleased by them, that is part of what love is about.

But you truly need to think about this, not only how it will affect you but also her.  If you do get into a relationship, it is no longer only about you.

Just remember that there will always be another pony’s feelings and well being to consider.

And don’t worry about being thought freakish or morally sick, even if you were a mare-lover.  It would be your choice, you don’t have to live up to other ponies’ standards.

What did Diamond Tiara say to you asking her to be your fillyfriend?”

“She said she had to think about how it to deal with family and friends, but she did make sure to tell me that she was not saying no either.”

“Sweetie, what ever happens, I am happy for you if you are happy, and I will always be there for you.”

“Is that what Rainbow Dash means when she says mare-lovers should stick together?”

They both laughed.

“Do you love her because she is a filly?”

“No!  I can’t stop thinking about her when she is not around.  And when she is, I just look at her and think how much I just want to be with her, just because she is Diamond.  Not because she is a filly.”

“That is a healthy attitude.  I am proud of you.”

“Thanks sis,” said Sweetie, then getting a mischievous gleam in her eyes.  “So.... tell me about sex with another girl.  How does that work?”

“Sweetie Belle!  A lady does not talk about such things with a filly!”  Rarity said in her ‘proper’ voice, then she winked at Sweetie, “but if it ever does become an issue, we will have that talk, I promise.  And I don’t think mother and father would be much use on that issue.  But for now I think kissing is enough for you to worry about.”

“I was just pulling your leg sis, and thanks.  Don’t tell anypony yet, okay?’

“You mean I can’t submit it to the Foal Free Press like you did my diary?”

They got up and left the room laughing.  But Rarity thought that she needed to see Twilight and ask about some books, for herself and for Sweetie Belle.

Chapter Three: Scootaloo and Diamond Tiara

CHAPTER THREE

Scootaloo and Diamond Tiara

Diamond Tiara was walking with Silver Spoon to Sweet Apple Acres and the clubhouse.  Apple Bloom said that she had something important to say and she wanted everypony there.  Diamond was disappointed when she went by Sweetie Belle’s home and found that she had already left.  It did, however, give her a chance to talk to Silver Spoon about her and Sweetie Belle.  Silver was her oldest friend, and for a long time had been her only friend.

“Silver, I need to tell somepony something.  And you are the only pony I can trust to talk to about this.”

“I am glad you feel that way.  You can tell me anything, you know that.”

“I do, but this is not easy and I need to get it out.”

“Okay,” said Silver Spoon hesitantly.

“Silver, I think... no, I am pretty sure that I am in love!”

“Hey!  That is great!  I’m so happy for you.  Who is he?”

Diamond gave a strange look at her friend, and took a deep breath.

“It’s Sweetie Belle.”

Silver stopped in her tracks, and then burst out laughing.

“Good one Diamond!  You had me going there for a second,” then she saw the look on Diamond’s face.  “Wait!  You’re serious!  But Sweetie Belle is a filly!  Your father is going to flip!”

“I know,” said Diamond, “but this is not a crush, I truly think I am in love.”

“What does Sweetie Belle say?”

“She asked me to be her fillyfriend.”

“As your friend, I am so happy for you.  And you know that you can count on me to keep my muzzle shut.  But you are going to have to be very careful!” Silver paused, “What did you tell Sweetie Belle?”

“I said I had to think about it.”

“That is good, but you want to say yes, don’t you?  I can tell.”

Diamond looked like she was on the edge of tears.

“Silver, I can’t stop thinking of her, ever since we kissed....”

“It was just a game!”

“No!  I could not sleep after everypony went to bed.  I went out on the porch, as it turned out, Sweetie could not sleep either.  We talked for a while and found we felt the same about the kiss and each other.  We ended up kissing some more, much more than when everypony was watching.  We have kissed a few times since then.  You must think I am some idiot or freak.”

“No!  As I said, I am happy for you, I truly am.  Sweetie Belle is a very nice pony, and I guess she is kind of cute too.  I think I would rather see you going out with a nice filly like Sweetie Belle than some mean jerk of a colt.” Diamond smiled, “I will do anything to help, I promise.”

“Thank you Silver,” said Diamond hugging her friend, “I knew you would understand.”

“Don’t mention it.” Said Silver, “besides, that leaves more colts for me!”

They both laughed as they walked on.

Scootaloo was flying to meet her friends, but first she had an important and heartbreaking stop to make.  It turned out that Rainbow and Pinkie’s cloud house was on the way to Sweet Apple Acres at this time.  Scootaloo was getting to be an accomplished flyer thanks to Rainbow’s lessons.  Ever since that camping trip, Rainbow had tried to show as much attention to Scoot as she could, and Scoot was responding by being a great student and friend.

Scootaloo lined up on the approach as Rainbow had taught her.  Then right at the threshold she flared out and beat her wings to a hover and lightly touched down.  Going to the door, she rang the bell.

Rainbow opened the door and gave a slight surprised look.

“Hey Squirt!” said Rainbow, still using the nickname she had given Scoot as a little filly, “did we have a lesson today?”

“No Rainbow, I came by to tell you and Pinkie something.  I was on my way to Sweet Apple Acres, so I thought I would stop on my way.”

“Come in then, Pink just made some cookies, if she hasn’t eaten them all by now, maybe she will give you some.”

They both laughed as they entered.

“Have a seat, Squirt.  I will get Pink.”

Rainbow went back to the kitchen and came back soon accompanied by Pinkie.  Pinkie had a plate of cookies and a glass of milk, she levitated them to Scootaloo.  After these few years, it was still strange to see Pinkie using magic.

“So good to see you Scootaloo,” said Pinkie, “Dashie said you needed to tell us something?”

Scootaloo was sitting on her haunches, the plate of cookies and glass of milk on the floor between her legs.  She nibbled at one of the delicious cookies.  She could not help thinking how she was going to miss Pinkie’s treats.

“I was told today, when I got to the Home, that because I will be graduating next month and going to  High School, I will be relocated to a Home for older kids.”  Rainbow saw the tear in Scootaloo’s eye, “in Cloudsdale.”

“Are you serious Scootaloo?  Of course you are, dumb question!”  Said Rainbow trying to think of the right things to say.  “When?”

“I was told that I needed to start getting my things together and packing away what I don’t need right now.  The next day after graduation they will be sending me to the new Home in Cloudsdale.  They said that a pegasus should go to school with other pegasi and learn more about pegasus culture.”

Scootaloo got up, she was trying hard not to be un-cool in front of her hero, but the tears were starting to come anyway.

“I need to get to Sweet Apple Acres, but I wanted to tell you first.”

“It is still a month off kid,” said Rainbow, “a lot can happen.”

“I know, but just in case, I wanted to tell you both how much I appreciate what you have done for me.  Thank you.”

Scoot walked to the door.  Rainbow joined her there; she put a wing over her and gave a hug.

“Don’t worry about it yet Squirt,” said Rainbow, “we have time.”

Scootaloo smiled waved at Pinkie who was standing there misty-eyed.  Then she leapt into the air and flew of toward Sweet Apple Acres.

“Dashie, we can’t let that happen.”

“I agree, but how?” asked Rainbow.

“We need to see Twilight, she will know.  And Bubbles grew up in one of those Homes; she might have an idea as well.”

All the girls were the clubhouse except Apple Bloom.  Silver Spoon noticed how much Diamond’s eyes lit up when Sweetie Belle came in.  She also noticed Sweetie’s expression when she saw Diamond.  She could definitely tell that there was indeed something there.

Scootaloo had come in earlier.  She was not looking too happy.  Dinky took her aside and was talking to her.

Sweetie walked over to Diamond and Silver.  Silver could tell that Sweetie was being very careful not to give anything away.  The three of them stood apart.

“Sweetie, it’s okay, I had to talk to somepony and Silver is trustworthy to keep a secret.  She knows everything.”  Said Diamond.

Silver Spoon smiled at Sweetie Belle.

“I think it is cool and I am so glad for the both of you.”

“Thank you Silver,” said Sweetie, “and I know I can trust you.  I did just talk to my sister and she said she is happy for us as well.”

Diamond and Sweetie just stood there looking in each other’s eyes.  Silver just stood there smiling.

Just then Apple Bloom came in all excited.

“Girls! Girls! I have a very special announcement!”

They all looked at Apple Bloom.

“I found out that my mother is alive!”

All the girls cheered and hugged Apple Bloom.

“Where is she?” asked Scootaloo, “I am so jealous!”

“She is right here,” said Apple Bloom, “come in Mama!”

Sweetie Belle all of the sudden understood why she heard what she did back in Apple Bloom’s house when Applejack came into the clubhouse.  She was looking very sheepish.

“Apple Bloom, that’s your sister,” said Scootaloo.

“No girls, I really am Apple Bloom’s mother.  I am sorry that I have lied about it for so long, but I was younger then you gals when it happened.”

They girls looked at Apple Bloom and then at Applejack, then each other.  Smiles and cheers broke out and they all rushed to hug A.J. and Apple Bloom.

There were tears in Apple Bloom’s eyes.

“I am so lucky to have such a great Mama!”

Scootaloo started to have the tears return.

“You don’t know how lucky you are!” said Scoot.

Scoot walked to the door and flew off.

Everypony looked confused.

“Scootaloo just told me,” explained Dinky, “that when school is out, she is being moved to another Children’s Home in Coudsdale.”

“No way!” said Apple Bloom.  “I guess my announcement could not have come at a worse time than this for her.”

“Hey Diamond,” said Dinky, “your father is on the board at the Ponyville Children’s Home, could he do something to help Scoot?”

“I will talk to him,” said Diamond, glad to have something other than the other issue to talk to her father about.

“Apple Bloom,” said A.J., “we were going to see Twilight anyway; maybe she will have some ideas.”

They all left the clubhouse, Dinky walked with A.J. and Apple Bloom since they were going to her home anyway.  Silver Spoon, Diamond Tiara and Sweetie Belle walked together to their homes.  Although Silver made an excuse of having to pick something up at Sugarcube Corner and giggled as she took off leaving Diamond and Sweetie to walk alone.

Chapter Four: Flashback To Dawn

CHAPTER FOUR

Flashback To Dawn

Four(ish) years earlier;

“You remember the Best Young Fliers Competition?”  asked Twi, “I gave Rarity wings that would only last three days.  But the walk on cloud spell, it did not have a limitation.”

“You mean, all this time we..............” Rainbow stopped.  “Thanks, we will talk to you later!  Come on Pinkie!”

“Congrat’s on the foal,” said Pinkie being dragged by the tail out the door.

Bubbles and Twilight laughed long as Dawn started to nurse.

Bubbles kissed Twilight deeply.  It still took Twilight’s breath away.

“Is that not how you got into this mess in the first place?” said a familiar voice.

Twilight and Bubbles broke the kiss and looked.  There stood Princesses Celestia and Luna.  It was Luna that had spoken.

“You highnesses!” said Twilight.

“My most beloved Twilight,” said Celestia, “here also in not the place for court games.  We are here as your aunt-in-laws.”

“Just aunt-in-laws that the nurses can’t say no to,” said Luna with a smile and wink.

“When she is finished, Bubbles my dear, may we, Luna and I that is, see her?” asked Celestia.

Twilight had never heard Celestia ever speak so casual and familiar.  Twilight had not put thought to the fact when her brother married Cadence, that the two ruling princesses were now technically family.

It was only a few moments until the newborn foal was satisfied.  Bubbles held out the infant.  Celestia’s golden aura surrounded the baby and lifted her out of her mother’s legs and brought her close.  Luna’s aura folded back the blanket to get a better view.  The two princesses stood there in rapt admiration and awe.

The infant opened her eyes and beheld the two alicorns before her.  She smiled as if in recognition.  Luna and Celestia looked at each other and nodded.

“She knows already,” said Celestia quiet enough for her sister to hear but not Twilight and Bubbles.  “The time is coming.”

“I am glad,” whispered Luna, “I am starting to get tired.”

“As am I,” whispered Celestia, “we will start Twilight’s real training soon.  A ghost from the past would be a good start.  And perhaps the possible loss of a close friend?”

“Yes, perhaps connect the two,” said Luna. “I will start Dawn’s training as soon as I can.”

Luna reached her hoof up and tickled the infant under the chin.  Both Dawn and Luna laughed.

“What a beautiful foal,” said Celestia to Twilight and Bubbles.  “We look forward to assisting you with her in anyway.  As I mentioned in the delivery room, with an alicorn, there will be special needs.”

Celestia levitated the child back to her parents.

“My sister and I will let you rest and bond.” Said Luna, “feel free to go back to kissing!”

Bubbles and Twilight did not have to be told twice.

Both of the princesses chuckled as they left the room.

In the hall, out of ear-shot, Luna turned to address her sister.

“Who would have thought that a Princess of the Night would be named for the dawn?”

Several days later, Twilight, Bubbles and Dawn were home.  Muffin and Sparkler were making a constant fuss over the foal.  Neither could seem to get enough of her.

Coincidentally, at this time Muffin’s magic started to truly manifest its self.  Between Sparkler, Muffin and Twilight,  Bubbles had to be very aware of her surroundings.  Otherwise she might get a bottle, a blanket or worse, a dirty diaper to the head.

“Family!” shouted Bubbles, after one such diaper just missed her muzzle, “all this magic!  Have pity on a poor pegasus who can’t even manage a card trick!”

Everypony laughed but they got the message and established a ‘no fly zone’ when Mama B was in the room.

Their friends had given them time to settle in, but after about a week, there were visits all the time.

A.J. and Rarity would come by bringing food to help ease Bubbles workload.  Or so they said.  Rarity would hold Dawn, her face showing a wrapped sense of wonder, she would then hand A.J. the infant.  All were surprised at the gentleness that the rough farm pony showed when handling the baby.  Her face was a mix of wonder, pride and an odd touch of sadness.

After one such visit, Rarity found A.J. laying on their bed, A.J. avoided admitting that she had been crying, but the pillow was stained with tears.  It was not until a few years later that Rarity understood.

Muffin asked for and was given permission to bring her fellow Cutie Mark Crusaders to see her new little sister.  With direct supervision, the girls were allowed to hold the precious infant.

“Oh wow!” said Scootaloo, “I have never seen a pony with wings and a horn other than princesses!  Is she a princess?”

“She is an alicorn,” said Bubbles, “the princesses are alicorns, but to be an alicorn does not make a pony a princess.”

“Well she is as pretty as a princess!” said Sweetie Belle.

“I agree,” said Apple Bloom, “I don’t think I have ever seen a foal as pretty.”

“Thank you girls,” said Twilight.

“I have a favor to ask, Mrs. Sparkle,” said Sweetie Belle.

“What is that Sweetie?” asked Bubbles.

“Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon heard us talking about coming over to see Dawn,” said Sweetie.  “Diamond asked me, if they behaved, would it be okay for them to see her as well?”

“I thought you girls did not get along?” asked Twilight.

“Well, they have been a lot more friendly since you helped Diamond from being expelled.”  Said Sweetie with a smile, “in fact they have now hung out with us from time to time.”

“Of course Sweetie,” said Twilight, “any friends of yours are welcome.”

Sweetie went to the door and waved for the two fillies to come in.  Twilight did not have much exposure to Diamond and Silver.  Her first impression was that of a couple of snooty little fillies.  Perhaps she was a little prejudiced from some of the things Muffin had reported in the past.

But here they stood, very reserved and respectful.  As she was allowed to hold Dawn, Diamond’s face expanded into a great grin.

“I never get to hold my brother,” said Diamond.  “Daddy says I am too young.”

Diamond looked at Sweetie Belle who gave her a large smile of her own.

Twilight noticed the smile and made a mental note.

Since Pinkie had moved in with Rainbow, the two were seen together most of the time.

Pinkie who loved children (perhaps because in many ways she was just a big kid herself) was always thrilled to just make funny faces or blow raspberries on they little foal’s tummy.  Any laugh given by dawn was better than a bag full of bits to the pink pony.

Rainbow, who was loath to admit fear, was always skittish when she held Dawn.

Rainbow related that it was taught when she was growing up, that in the past when pegasi were warrior tribes, the few alicorns that would come forth were treated like gods, it was still part of their psyche.  That is why so many of the royal guard are pegasi.

Fluttershy would stop by with her coltfriend, A.J.’s cousin Caramel.  Fluttershy did not exhibit any of the apprehension that Rainbow showed, perhaps pegasus culture was not so ingrained in her.   The two would sit on a sofa for hours passing the foal between them,  they would speak to each other in low voices and smile a lot.

The child was somewhat of a celebrity when Bubbles and Twilight went out, even among the ones who did not know the special origin of the foal.  She was Ponyville’s little alicorn filly.  And there were very few ponies that would not stop to see the child.  Especially the mares, and there were a lot of mares.

This was due to the fact that at this time in Equestria, there were estimated five to six mares for every one stallion.  It was an ideal situation for the single colt.  But that was perhaps the biggest reason that two mares together were becoming widely accepted, although still not the normal practice.

Chapter Five: At the Library

CHAPTER FIVE

At the Library

Back in the present:

When Bubbles was ‘in the mood’, Twilight found any reason to please her.  Bubbles had just pleased Twilight, now she was on her back, with her tail and hind legs hanging over the end of the bed.  Twilight was on her haunches, forelegs supporting Bubbles flanks, doing what she liked to do best.  In about five years she had gone from an innocent, studious, book-worm virgin to an accomplished love-maker who delighted in pleasing her wife, especially orally.

Bubbles knew how lucky she was, she often kidded that it was the best of situations.  Twilight had known nothing about sex, other than what she had read in her books.  Bubbles had trained Twilight into a lover who knew nothing other than how to please and be pleased by her.  They two were perfectly happy with that.

Twilight was the greatest student alive in Equestria.  This spanned all knowledge from magic to math to literature.  But Bubbles was most please with how much Twilight had learned in making love to her.  Twilight bragged that she knew at least twenty ways of licking Bubbles clit.  From the way that would bring maximum orgasm in the shortest amount of time when in a rush, to keeping her up and going, on the edge ALL night.

Bubbles knew she was truly blessed and made sure she let Twilight know that she appreciated it.  There was never anypony who loved a pony like she loved Twilight.  And it could be argued that Twilight loved her the same.  If you needed proof, there was their precocious little four year old alicorn filly.   Dawn was the product of two mares; it was magic and a miracle.  But that magic was the magic of their limitless love for each other.

“OH! T W I L I G H T!!!!!” cried Bubbles as the orgasm washed over her like waves on the ocean.

Twilight kept at it until her wife was utterly spent.  Then Twilight leapt on the bed and kissed Bubbles wildly.

Bubbles was about to make one of her trademark quips that always brought a smile to her wife when they heard the bell that rang when the door downstairs opened.

“Finished just in time!”  They both giggled.

They hurried to the stair in time to be mortified.

Dinky, Rarity, Applejack and Apple Bloom had walked into the library.  Twilight and Bubbles heard Rarity talking to somepony.  They realized it was Dawn.  Somehow Dawn had gotten out of her room and made it down stairs without them knowing it, again.

Applejack, Rarity and Apple Bloom had gone to the library to let Twilight and Bubbles in on the news about A.J. and Apple Bloom.  Dinky had walked there with them.

Rarity had also come to the library to find some books to share with Sweetie Belle and Diamond Tiara.  It was not that she wanted Sweetie Belle to start having sex with Diamond Tiara, but they did need to know that even with having sex between two females, there were still risks.

On entering the library, they found Dawn sitting on the floor, playing with Twilight’s old Smarty-Pants doll.

“Hello Auntie Rarity, hello Auntie Applejack!” said Dawn with the kind of honest smile only a child could give when truly happy to see you.

“Hello Dawn, are you having fun playing with your doll?” asked Rarity.

“Yes ma’am,” she replied.  “I love my dolly.”

“I am sure you do Darling, where are your mommies?”

Twilight was about to say something from the top of the stairs when

Dawn answered first.

“Mommies are up stairs.  Mommy T is talking to Mommy B’s tushie.”

“Oh dear!” exclaimed Rarity, not sure if she should be embarrassed, or collapse to the floor laughing like Rainbow Dash.

A.J., Apple Bloom and Dinky all looked at each other in shock and amusement.

“DAWN!” cried Bubbles and Twilight in unison.

“Sissy,” said Dawn to Dinky, as if sensing that a quick escape was called for, “will you play with me?”

“Please take her up stairs;” asked Bubbles, “I think she has said enough.”

Even Apple Bloom laughed at this.

“Twilight, is Spike here?” asked A.J., “Apple Bloom has a request.”

“Twilight, would you mind if I sent a letter to Princess Celestia?” asked Apple Bloom.

“Sure honey, I will take it down, Spike is visiting Shining Armor and Cadence in the Crystal Empire.” Twilight summoned a quill and paper.  “Okay, go ahead.”

Apple Bloom smiled at A.J., A.J.  nodded back.

“Dear Princess Celestia,” started the filly, “I wanted to let you know that I have made the most fantastic discovery about friendship.  I doubt I will ever have better news.  Applejack has always been my best friend and has always been there for me, I have always known that I can count on her at anytime.  I was sure that she was the best sister ever.  I was wrong.”

Twilight looked up from the paper and raised an eyebrow.   A.J., Rarity, and Apple Bloom were smiling odd, knowing smiles.

“I found out yesterday that I did not have the best sister ever.  I found out that I have the best mother ever!  And now, where before I had none, now I have two moms.  Your faithful subject, Apple Bloom Apple.”

“Your mother?” said Twilight to Apple Bloom, but she was looking at A.J.

A.J. nodded her head.  Twilight forgot about the letter and rushed to hug A.J. and Apple Bloom, Bubbles joined them.

“But how?” asked Twilight.

“Darling, do I have to explain it to you.... again?” said Bubbles to Twilight, always eager to give a little dig.

“I know how!  But how?”

“You don’t do it by talking to somepony’s tushie, I know that much,” giggled Apple Bloom.

“Apple Bloom!” exclaimed A.J. with a smirk, “that is how it starts!”

Bubbles and Twilight blushed darker than was thought possible with their coat colors.

A.J. was obliged to explain about the past and the history of her incident.  Somehow, after keeping it hidden for all these years, bringing it out was making it easier on her.  Plus by coming clean about being Apple Bloom’s mother, it was taking away any shame she still attached to the attack.

As everypony was talking excitedly, Rainbow Dash walked in, seeing hugging and hearing laughter.

“Hey Egg-Head!  What’s going on?” asked Rainbow.

“Some really exciting news!” answered Twilight, ignoring the name, “where is Pinkie she should hear this.”

“She wanted to try something,” said Rainbow, “in fact; 3..2..1..”

There was a yellow flash, and then there stood Pinkie.

“Great job Pinkie!” said Twilight, “you did not appear on top of the tree this time!”

Rainbow turned to Pinkie with a grin;

“Hey Pink, Twi has some news to tell us.”

“Not me,” said Twilight, “I think Apple Bloom should tell you, right Apple Bloom?”

“You bet!” said the filly, “I have somepony you need to meet!  My mother!”

“Your mother?” said Pinkie looking in every direction, “Where? Where? Where!”

“She is right here!” said Apple Bloom pointing out Applejack.

Rainbow’s jaw dropped in understanding, but Pinkie burst out in joyful laughter.

“Good one Apple Bloom, don’t you know that she’s your sister?”

“Pink,” said Rainbow, “I don’t think she is kidding!”

“What!” exclaimed the pink pony. “Why that’s great news!  But I’m confused, more than normal.”

A.J. was obliged to tell the story again.  It truly was getting easier with each telling.  There were more hugs and congratulations all around.

“Wow!” said Rainbow, “that was so great I almost forgot what we came here for.  We needed to ask Twi and Bubbles something.”

“We need to know how a pony goes about adopting a kid from the Children’s Home?” said Pinkie.

The smiles grew even larger.

“Scootaloo?” asked Apple Bloom.

“Scootaloo,” answered Rainbow.  “Pink and I are sorry we had not thought of this before.”

There were tears in Bubbles eyes.

“I am so proud of you two,” said Bubbles, “I wish somepony had done that for me and my brother.

The process is simple to start, you go to the Children’s Home and get the adoption paperwork, fill it out along with some other information they will ask for.  Then it goes before a board for approval.”

Chapter Six: Dash-ed Hopes

CHAPTER SIX

Dash-ed Hopes

Candy Mane looked up from her paperwork.  She recognized the two ponies that just entered the office.  Rainbow Dash was the captain of the local weather team, and who did not know Pinkie Pie, no, she corrected herself, Pinkie Dash.  These two ponies, along with their four friends had saved Ponyville and Equestria on several occasions.  Here were real celebrates and heroes.

“Hello! Rainbow and Pinkie, isn’t it?  What can I do for you?”

“Yes Candy Mane, (Pinkie knew every pony in Ponyville).  We are interested in adopting one of your fillies.” Said Pinkie.

“Yes, her name is Scootaloo.” Said Rainbow.

“Scootaloo?” asked Candy Mane, “Oh yes, Scootaloo West Wind.  A good filly, a little bit of a hoof-full at times, but heart as big as all Equestria.”

“Oh we know that!” said Rainbow, “she is friends with my best friends’ sisters.”

“And daughters,” interject Pinkie.

“I have been giving her flying lessons for the last few years.”  Finished Rainbow.

“So you are the one who has been working with her.  Some of the very minor behavioral issues vanished when she started taking lessons.  Thank you for working with her.  Sometime our kids go un-noticed and they are the fillies and colts that need attention the most.”

“It is our pleasure,” said Pinkie, “Rainbow and I have decided that Scootaloo would be a perfect addition to our family.  Who better to take care of a pegasus filly than the best flier in all Equestria.  Plus, in the Dash home, there is more than enough love to go around!”

“That is what we like to hear.  When children get Scootaloo’s age, it gets harder to place them in a home.  So here is what needs to be done.”

Candy Mane reached in her desk and brought out a packet of forms.

“These need to be filled out in full.  We will need personal information from the two of you so we can do a background check, standard procedure, nothing implied.  You will need to give six personal references, not family, and then the information goes before the board for a decision.”

“How long does that take?” asked Rainbow.

“Two to three weeks, normally.”  Replied Candy Mane.

“I was concerned because I heard that she was being moved to Cloudsdale soon.” Said Rainbow.

“Yes she is, but we should have a decision before that.” Said Candy Mane.  “The process is to make sure the children entrusted to us by the Crown get the very best homes.  We are not here to block children from getting loving families.”

Pinkie’s eyes glowed yellow, there was a yellow aura around the packet of forms as Pinkie levitated the paperwork off the desk.  Candy Mane was taken aback.

“I have never seen an Earth Pony do that!”

“Long story!” said Rainbow with a sly smile, “we will get these back to you as quickly as we can.”

“Thank you and good luck!” said Candy Mane as they left the office.

In the hall they saw Scootaloo.  Scoot was happy to see them.

“Rainbow! Pinkie! What are you doing here?”

“Oh! we had nothing better to do so we decided to get a cat to play with Tank, but there were none available right now.  So, instead we thought we would come here so we could get a ton of paperwork to fill out.  What a pain, a cat would have been easier!  I hope the snot-muzzled little brat is grateful.  I detest paperwork!”

”Yes,” said Pinkie with one of her smiles, “paperwork is soooo boring!”

“Paperwork?” asked Scoot, “what paperwork?”

Pinkie let Scootaloo see the papers.

“Adoption papers?” asked Scoot, hopping what she was hearing was what she was wishing, “really!  No way!”

“I don’t know,” said Rainbow teasing, “I just can’t get my mind around ‘West Wind’.”

Scoot’s eyes got bigger.  Her hopes coming to fruition.

“Yes,” said Pinkie to Rainbow, “I don’t think I could ever get use to that.  Unless it was a deal-breaker, I think that would have to be the first thing to go!”

Pinkie then looked at Scootaloo.

“What do you think of..... Dash?”

Rainbow and Pinkie worked hard to get the paperwork filled out correctly.  Twilight and Bubbles helped a lot.  When told that they needed six personal references, Twilight told Rainbow who better than three of her fellow wielders of the Elements of Harmony, Applejack, Rarity and herself.

“What about the other three?” asked Rainbow.

“I thought about them from the start,” said Twilight with a grin.  “I think I can arrange some letters of recommendation from some ponies that would be hard not to take notice.”

“Do you mean....”

“Princesses Celestia, Luna and Cadence.” Answered Twilight.

A week later, Diamond Tiara was at home doing her homework.  She had some to make up because she had been distracted in class and there were the clandestine meetings with Sweetie Belle at the movies or just hanging out at Sugarcube Corner or the clubhouse that made her fall behind on her work.  But she felt that all the kissing and hoof-holding was worth it.  She and Sweetie were falling deeper in love, and they were not sure how much longer they could keep it a secret.  Sweetie Belle had shared with her the books that Rarity had gotten for them.  They were excited, confused and embarrassed with some of the descriptions.  Rarity had also made them swear that they would not try any of this before they had a chance to talk to her about it, she impressed that unlike Spin the Bottle, this was not a game and not to be taken lightly.

She had been let in on the fact that Rainbow and Pinkie Dash were trying to adopt her friend Scootaloo.  As her father came in, she thought that she might ask about Scoot.

“Hey daddy,” said Diamond, finishing up the last problem. “I wanted to ask you something.”

“Sure baby, what is it?”

“You know my friend Scootaloo.  She is so upset that she is going to have to leave her friends because she is graduating.  You are chairpony of the Children’s Home board.  Can’t you do anything to help her?”

“Sorry honey,” said Filthy Rich, “she is too old for the home.  Besides, she will be around other pegasi.”

“But I heard that Rainbow and Pinkie Dash wanted to adopt her.”

“Like that will happen while I am on the board!”  Replied Filthy.

“What do you mean daddy?”

“Listen honey, it is my job to make sure that the children entrusted to the board get good homes with decent ponies.”

“But I know Rainbow and Pinkie, they are some of the nicest ponies around!” said Diamond.

“Look, you are probably too young to understand this, but that Rainbow and Pinkie are not fit ponies to be around normal ponies.  Mare-lovers don’t need to be polluting the mind of an innocent filly.  And I am going to do my best to block the adoption anyway I can.  It does not matter if they do have references from three princesses.”

“Why would you do that, you would deny my friend a loving home?” said Diamond, not believing what she heard.

“Mare-lovers have no right to be around normal ponies!  That is that!  If I could get my way I would throw every mare-lover out of Ponyville, no out of Equestria!”

“But daddy!”

“I can see that hanging out with the sisters and daughters of mare-lovers had made you soft.  From now on, you can only hang out with Silver Spoon and only when she is not around those other fillies.  Don’t argue!  I have spoken and I mean every word!”

Filthy stormed out of the room.  Diamond got up and headed to the door.

“Where do you think you’re going, young filly?” demanded Filthy.

“I am going to the library; I have to get some information for a report.”

“Well get back here quickly.”

Diamond was going to the library.  There was something that she had read about and she needed to get help with it.  She would tell Twilight Sparkle everything, she was sure that she would get all the help she wanted.”

A.J. and Rarity had dropped by the library to say hello when the Dash’s came storming in.  Rainbow was mad enough to ‘eat nails and spit chain’, as A.J. would put it.  Pinkie was a crying wreck.

“I can’t believe it!  I can’t believe it!” thundered Rainbow.  “Just who does that Filthy Rich think he is? Celestia?  I know Celestia and he is no Celestia!  Celestia would not think of sending such a letter!”

Pinkie was in a corner weeping hard, Bubbles was trying to console her.

“Let me see that letter,” said Twilight.

Rainbow and Pinkamena Dash,

I have done the preliminary review of your application for the adoption of Scootaloo West Wind.  Your back ground checks and personal references are spotless.

However, on further review of your personal lifestyle, I am afraid that the request will be denied.  This still has to go before the full board, but it will be my recommendation that the board turns down the request.

Filthy Rich

Chairpony, Ponyville Children’s Home

“That Filthy Rich!  I would kick his bigoted face right off his bigoted head,” shouted Rainbow, “if it would not land me in jail!”

Rainbow then noticed that Diamond Tiara had come into the library.

“Sorry you heard me say that about your dad.” Said Rainbow.

“Don’t be,” said Diamond, clearly something was bothering her.  “Right now, I would hold him down for you!”

“Why is that?” asked Twilight.

Diamond told them the conversation she had just had with her father.  Rainbow said that she was ready to go do what she had just threatened.  Jail would be no biggie with the satisfaction she would feel.

“Please don’t,” said Diamond, “I have a different way.  Mrs. Sparkle you know about official paperwork.”

“Yes.” She replied.

“I need you to do some for me, I don’t have any bits, but I can work for it.”

“Don’t worry about that Diamond,” said Twilight, “what do you need?”

“I believe it is called an ‘Emancipation of Minor Order’.”

Twilight looked puzzled and thought a moment.

“That’s rather harsh,” said Twilight.

“He said that mare-lovers had no right to be around normal ponies.  That if he had his way, all mare-lovers would be thrown out of Equestria.”

“That is very noble of you to stand up for other ponies, but I don’t think that is any reason to divorce your parents.” Said Twilight.

Diamond was blushing.

“Twilight, it does affect her,” said Rarity, Diamond gave her a little nod. “Diamond Tiara and Sweetie Belle have been dating secretly for some time.”

“Is that what the books were for?” asked Twilight, not sure if she wanted to hear the answer.

“Yes, Mrs. Sparkle” said Diamond, “we have read them, but we have not done anything more than kissing, I promise.  We told Mrs. Apple that we would talk to her before we thought about doing anything.”

“You can believe her,” said Rarity, “but I guess that with her father’s attitude, I can understand her request.”

“Are you sure about this honey,” asked Twilight, “this is a big step.  It may change your life in ways you may not have thought about.”

“I am sure, just as sure as I love Sweetie Belle.” Said Diamond, the ponies around her smiled.  “I don’t want to do this, I love my father.  But he is just as liable to kick me out when he finds out that I am in love with a filly.  But I can’t be around his bigotry and be quiet.  This time it directly affects me, my friends and especially the pony I love.

I plan to tell him right now how I feel and I will be bringing Sweetie Belle, if she will come with me.”

“She will go Diamond, I guess you have an answer for Sweetie Belle.” Said Rarity.

“I have, I had an answered all the time.  But I was trying to figure how to break it to other ponies, and to my parents.  I guess this is the time to do it.” Said Diamond, “but I need to see Sweetie Belle and give her my answer first.  Do you know where she is Mrs. Apple?”

“She is where she spends most of her time after school, at the clubhouse.”

“Listen Diamond,” said Rainbow, “I think that is very brave of you, and it would be fair to say that we all here are so proud of you taking up a stand under such a hard situation.  But I think that this might be a way to fix our Scootaloo problem also.”

“How do you mean,” asked Twilight.

“I think that with the backing of his daughter, proof of his bigotry, will have him removed from the board if he continues with his attitude.” Said Rainbow.

“I thought after the fight thing, he had changed.  I guess his feelings went underground.” Replied Twilight.

“Don’t worry Mrs. Sparkle, Mrs. Dash,” said Diamond, “I will help anyway I can, and if I don’t have to use the paperwork, I won’t.  But he does not need to hurt other ponies just because his head is up his flanks!

But if I have to, I will use the paperwork and go and live at the Children’s Home if need be.”

“That is a very mature attitude, Diamond,” said Twilight, “And you will not have to stay at the Home.  I think I can name a few ponies that would be happy to take a brave and intelligent filly in to their homes, right girls?”

There were comments of agreement all around.

“I will draw them up now.  I do have the authority to sign them, you know.”

“Thank you, Mrs. Sparkle, I will pick it up when I come back with Sweetie Belle,” then Diamond added with a smile, “my fillyfriend!”

“No Diamond,” said Twilight with a smile, “you two are too mature for that.  Say rather ‘marefriend’!”

Diamond flashed a larger grin and trotted out the door.

Rainbow looked at her friends;

“I don’t think Filthy Rich deserves a daughter that special!”  Then looking at Rarity, “you better let Sweetie Belle know that she is a ‘keeper’!”

“I think Sweetie already knew,” replied Rarity.  “In spite of their age, they are two ponies who love each other so much that they want the togetherness more than sex.  I know a lot of stallions and mares that never reach that level of maturity in their relationships.  And I am going to make sure that they know that I support them.”

“I think it would be fair to say that everypony here will do the same.”  Said Twilight, “I think I have some paperwork I need to do.”

Twilight looked up the reference and started on the order for Diamond Tiara.

Chapter Seven: Hopes Renewed

CHAPTER SEVEN

Hopes Renewed

Diamond headed toward Sweet Apple Acres at a happy trot, by the time she got to the clubhouse, she was at a full gallop, she was that excited.  When she got near, she could hear her friends inside.  At the door, for one moment, she paused, fearing what her friends might say.  But she remembered what she had said at the sleepover;

‘I know if I had a pony to love, I would not act like I had to hide it from everypony.’

Diamond braced herself and rushed in the clubhouse.

“Ponies! Ponies! I need to tell you all something!” she said, afraid to pause and lose her nerve.

All stopped talking to pay attention.

Then she looked Sweetie Belle in the eyes.

“I need to tell you something in particular.”

All were looking at Diamond; Silver Spoon had an odd smirk on her face.

“Yes!” said Diamond, wanting to jump up and down.

“Yes?” said Sweetie Belle, hoping she was hearing what she wanted to hear.

“Yes, what?” asked Dinky.

“Yes Sweetie Belle, I want to be your marefriend because I love you!”

“I love you too! I’ve wanted to tell you!” said Sweetie Belle

With that, Diamond Tiara and Sweetie Belle kissed passionately, not caring what pony was looking.

“Too cool!” said Scootaloo, forgetting for the moment the bad news Rainbow had told her.

They broke the kiss, all smiles.

“I really did have something to tell the rest of you ponies,” said Diamond, still with a foreleg around Sweetie Belle, “my father is the reason that it looks like Scootaloo will not be adopted.  He said that mare-lovers have no place around decent ponies!”

Gasps all around.

“Well I am going home now to tell dad that I love Sweetie Belle, and we have been seeing a lot of each other.  And if that makes me a mare-lover, then I guess that I will be moving out... tonight!”  Then turning to Sweetie Belle, “I would really like it if you would come with me.  I will need somepony to help me pack, that is if they let me take my things.  But more than that, I need a pony to support me.”

Sweetie hugged Diamond;

“I will go with you and do what ever you need.  I will always be there because I love you and I will stand by you no matter what!” said Sweetie Belle, then she gave Diamond a quick kiss.

“We are going too, we might not love you like Sweetie Belle,” said Silver Spoon with a giggle, “but we stand with our friends!  Just don’t expect us to kiss you too.”

All the fillies cheered.  Diamond told them that they had to stop by the library to pick something up.

They arrived at the library to find Twilight, Bubbles, Rainbow, Pinkie, A.J., Rarity along with two ponies in police uniforms waiting outside for them. Rainbow had went and got the police officers.  Bubbles had said ‘This is a matter of the law and they should be there if it needs to be enforced’.

“Are you sure you want to go through with this?” asked Twilight.

“Most certainly, Mrs. Sparkle.” Said Diamond.

“Then here is the paper you wanted signed by the third highest authority in the land, the Lady Twilight Sparkle, in the name of the highest authority, Princess Celestia Rex.” Said Twilight, “this normally takes days or weeks for investigation, but with past history, there is no doubt in my pony mind that what you say is the truth.  Especially with the evidence of the Scootaloo adoption letter Rainbow and Pinkie received.  Oh, and if your father does anything with the paper, I made a couple of copies.”

“Thank you, and if you excuse us, we have somewhere to go.” Said Diamond with a smile, knowing that things were starting to go her way.

“Oh no, you are not going alone.” Said Rarity with a wink, “we are going too.  If there is trouble, well we mare-lovers have to stick together.”

“Hey! That’s my line!  I’m the only REAL mare-lover here.”  said Rainbow Dash with a grin.

When they all got to Diamond Tiara’s house, Diamond told every pony that she want to go in with Sweetie Belle first; she wanted a chance to come clean about their relationship.  If that did not change his mind about things then she would let them know if she needed help.

Filthy Rich heard the door open and close.  Diamond should have been home by now; she was going to get it.

“Diamond!  Is that you?”

“Yes, I’m home, and I’m not alone,” said Diamond.

Filthy came in the front room to see Diamond and one of her friends, Sweetie Belle, Rarity Apple’s sister.

“I thought I told you that I did not want you hanging out with this one and the other mare-lovers’ sisters and daughters.”  Said Filthy, trying to be as intimidating as he could.

He could tell that it did not appear to be working.

“I know what you said, daddy.  But I also heard something else you said and that is why Sweetie is here to help me.”

“Help you what?” said Filthy, not sure what his daughter was saying.

“I am moving out!” said the filly.

“And what makes you think you could do that?”

He got his answer in a most unexpected way.

Diamond put a foreleg around Sweetie Belle’s neck.  Then kissed her with all the passion she was feeling in her soul after letting her friends know the truth.

“What are you doing young filly!” screamed Filthy.  “You get to your room, I will deal with you in a moment, after I throw this one out!”

“You will do no such thing, and you can’t tell me what to do anymore!” Said Diamond defiantly.

“I will show you who can do what!” said Filthy.

Filthy looked as if he was going to get physical.  Sweetie Belle’s horn took on an ominous glow.

“Before you do anything you will regret, I have ten ponies outside waiting to hear from me.  And two police officers.” Said Diamond.

“What has gotten into you,” said Filthy starting to back down.

“You threw me out, so I got my friends to help me move.”

“When did I throw you out?”

“You said that mare-lovers had no place around decent ponies and if you could you would throw all of them out of Equestria.” Replied Diamond.  “I am in love with Sweetie Belle, she is in love with me, and for some time now.  But we have had to hide it like it was something dirty or illegal because of your outdated attitude.  I love her for who she is, not because she is a filly, but if that makes us mare-lovers, then we can live with that as long as we have each other.”

“You can’t go, I won’t let you.” Said Filthy, starting to regret his stance.

“As I told you, you no longer have any say!” replied Diamond.

Then Sweetie Belle levitated the Emancipation Order to Filthy.  He read it and read it again.

“What is it dear?” said Nouveau Rich, Diamond’s mom.  She was standing in the kitchen doorway; she was a very mousy looking mare.  She was holding a little foal.

“Just go back in there,” said Filthy, “I am handling this.”

“No,” she said, looking like she had never said that to him before.  “I want to know why I just heard that you have thrown our daughter out.”

“I have done no such thing!” said Filthy, his iron control of his family falling apart before his eyes.

“I love Sweetie Belle, but that makes us mare-lovers, according to him.  So I am not welcome.  He said that mare-lovers have no place around decent ponies.

Plus he is blocking one of our best friends from being adopted just because he does not like Rainbow and Pinkie Dash’s lifestyle.  He says that they are unfit only because of who they love.”

“Pinkie Dash, unfit?” said Nouveau.  “Why, she is the sweetest and most loving mare in all Equestria!  And Rainbow Dash is a very important pony; she is in charge of Ponyville’s weather, and a hard and honest worker.  Not to mention that they have helped save Equestria several times.  I think it is you that is unfit for your position on the Children’s Home board.”

“But Diamond has an Emancipation Order!” said Filthy, feeling all his authority totally disappearing.

“And I don’t blame her,” answered Diamond’s mother looking at the order, “did you not go through this when Diamond got into that fight?  Did you not get put in your place, when Twilight Sparkle came to the aid of our daughter?  Did she not inform you what she was able to do.  Now it looks like you have brought that power down on you!

I would do a reality check on what you think once more.  If you cause us to lose our daughter, instead of gaining this adorable little filly as a fillyfriend for our Diamond, then I think it will be you who gets the Emancipation Order!”

“Marefriend, mother,” said Diamond with a smile.

“You are right, I don’t think you are children anymore.” Said Nouveau.  “You have acted like adults more than some adults in this very room!’

“Our friends and their parents and sisters are outside waiting to hear from us,” said Sweetie Belle.

“Invite them in, they will want to hear it from Filthy’s own muzzle that he is not going to block the adoption, and if he knows what’s good for him, he will be expediting it.”

Two days later, Rainbow and Pinkie were in the office of the Ponyville Children’s Home.  Candy Mane was all smiles as she witnessed the final signing of the adoption papers.  Pinkie had just finished.

“That is all,” said Candy Mane, “I don’t think I have ever seen an adoption go through as fast before.”

“I guess having recommendations from three princesses may have helped.” Said Rainbow, knowing the real reason.  But this was not the place to go into it.

“I believe Scootaloo is in the hall, saying goodbye to her room mates.  She has been packed for days.”

“Thank you, Candy Mane.” Said Pinkie, “We will make sure that Scootaloo stays in touch with the children.”

With that, Pinkie levitated their copy of the paperwork and the two ponies exited into the hall.

Scootaloo was out there waiting, her eyes about bulging out of her head and she was trembling with excitement.

“Well squirt,” said Rainbow, kidding, “you sure you don’t want to stay here?  You have it pretty sweet, all the roommates you want, no parents telling you what to do.  Not having to worry about birthday or Hearth Warming presents.  And government employees controlling your life.  Makes me want to move in here myself!”

Pinkie almost could not hold in the laughter.

“Are you kidding!  This is a dream come true!  I have a real home!  I have parents!  And they are ponies that I have loved for a very long time.

I told you once, Rainbow, that I wanted you to be like my big sister, this is even better!  I have you and Pinkie as my mothers!” then Scootaloo paused, her face lit up even more as a thought hit her;

“Is it okay if I call you two ‘mom’? I never really had a mom!”

Rainbow and Pinkie both hugged Scoot.

“Of course you can honey,” said Pinkie, Rainbow nodded consent.

Despite Rainbow and Scootaloo trying to be cool about it, there were tears of joy in all three ponies’ eyes.

“Come on Scootaloo Dash, let’s go home.” Said Rainbow.

“Not before we stop at Sugarcube Corner for a treat!” said Pinkie, “I think our daughter deserves it!”

Scootaloo thought her face was going to rip from smiling so hard.  ‘Scootaloo Dash’!  ‘Daughter’!  Could life be any better?

They walked outside where Scoot’s bags were waiting.  Pinkie winked at Scootaloo, her eyes glowed yellow, then the bags disappeared.

“I didn’t want to carry them all that way” giggled Pinkie.  “Why don’t you two go ahead, I will see you there.”

Scootaloo and Rainbow looked at each other.  They spread their wings and took off.  Scootaloo had always felt exhilaration when flying with Rainbow, but it was greater because she was flying with her new mother, and she loved it.  She looked over at Rainbow only to see Rainbow looking at her.  They both exchanged smiles.

On landing at Sugarcube Corner, Pinkie was waiting there.

“But how?” asked Scootaloo.

“Get accustom to it.  She could do that before she knew that she could do magic,” smiled Rainbow.

Pinkie kissed Rainbow and then she kissed Scootaloo a mother type kiss.   Scoot liked the feeling of having parents who cared for her and loved her.

“Get inside you two slow-pokes!” said Pinkie.  Scootaloo and Rainbow cringed at the designation of ‘slow-poke’, but they could not argue.

They entered Sugarcube Corner the lights were off, they came on to a thunderous;

“SURPRISE!”

The place was decorated with party trimmings and a large banner that read:

WELCOME HOME SCOOTALOO DASH

All of her five close friends and other friends from school were there.  As were Miss Cheerilee and her new fiancé Big Mac.  There was Bon-Bon and Lyra Heartstrings, Twilight and Bubbles Sparkle, Applejack and Rarity Apple along with other ponies from the community.  There were a set of ponies off to the side that Scootaloo did not recognize.

“Let’s introduce the rest of your new family,” said Pinkie.

They led Scootaloo over the unknown ponies.

“Scootaloo, this is your new grandmother and grandfather, Clyde and Sue Pie, your new aunts Blinkie and Octavia,” said Pinkie introducing four earth ponies.

“And here is your grandmother and grandfather Dash,” said Rainbow  There were two bluish purple pegasus ponies, the stallion had a rainbow mane and tail, the mare had a dark and light striped pink mane and tail, Rainbow’s had her eyes.

There was a lot of fussing over Scootaloo, she had never had so many ponies so glad to meet her, hug and kiss her and address her as granddaughter and niece.  She was in heaven.

They then started to mingle.  Scoot’s friends were all talking to her when Diamond told her that somepony wanted to talk to her and her new parents, Sweetie Belle was walking with Diamond.

Diamond led Scootaloo, Rainbow and Pinkie over to a corner.  There stood Filthy Rich, alone and forlorn looking.

“What do you want!” asked Rainbow, not very happy.

“I need to apologize,” he said looking at the floor, “I have been thoughtless and judgmental, without any good reason.  I realize that I had been spouting ideas that were taught to me by my father.  Out of respect to him, I had taken him at his word without ever questing the validity of his ideas.”

“How do we know that we can trust you?” asked Pinkie.

“It took the possibility of losing my daughter, my wife and my son to make me truly think about my stance and then I realized that it was I who was wrong.

I did not appreciate it when Twilight Sparkle helped my Diamond, and I did not see that what I was saying was hurting my daughter, now more than I had ever realized.  I was willing to deny my daughter the possibility of love with a wonderful pony, just because I was stuck in my father’s mindset.

And I was hurting Scootaloo by trying to deny her a loving home because I was so closed minded.

I know that damage is done, but I hope that I can make it up to everypony somehow.  So I am truly sorry.”

Rainbow did not feel like she could stay as mad.

There was a moment when neither said anything.

“Thank you for that, and thank you for speeding up the adoption process.  We will take you at your word that you have changed and will suspend judgment until proven otherwise.  After all Scootaloo is a friend of Diamond’s so we should have a good relationship with her parents,” said Rainbow.

Then she did something she did not think she would be doing.  She offered her hoof.

Filthy Rich looked shocked and humbled and shook Rainbow’s hoof.

Then Sweetie Belle spoke up;

“Mr. Rich, I wanted to do this properly, we are tired of hiding our relationship;  I would like your permission to take Diamond to the school dance,” asked Sweetie, “as my date.”

Filthy was taken aback, after the way he acted, these ponies were truly acting like they did forgive him, and as the case before him, respecting him and his feelings.

“I couldn’t think of any other pony that I would want to take her, if she wants to.”  Diamond nodded enthusiastically, “I see that Diamond truly loves you and I believe you love her too.  You stood by her when it looked like her father would not.  That is proof enough of your love and caring, I will always remember that.  You are always welcome in the Rich home.”

Filthy was shocked even more when both Diamond and Sweetie hugged him.

“Thank you Mr. Rich.  I will always be there for her,” said Sweetie Belle.

There were colts from the school there, and they took the opportunity to get a final commitment from some of the fillies for who they would let escort them.  There were more than a few that were disappointed when they found out that Diamond Tiara and Sweetie Belle were not available or would ever be.

Sweetie and Diamond went and joined Scootaloo and the rest of their friends.

“You two look happy,” said Scootaloo.

“Diamond’s father gave permission for me to take Diamond to the dance!”  said Sweetie Belle.

“That’s great!” said Silver Spoon, “at least two of us have dates.  None of us have accepted any offers yet.”

“And I think the colts are intimidated that they now have to ask Rainbow if they can take me.” Said Scootaloo.

All laughed.

“Girls,” said Rarity, coming over to them.  “I am going to have to have you come by Carousel Boutique before this weekend, if you are wanting me to make dresses for the dance.  It would help to know what colors you would want so that the colts could dress accordingly.

“Sis, about that,” said Sweetie Belle, “Mr. Rich said it was okay with him if Diamond and I go to the dance as dates.  So we were wanting to know if you would make us matching dresses?”

“I would love to make matching dresses for you.  I have a feeling that I will be making matching dresses for you in the future also.” Rarity said with a wink.

All the fillies giggled.

After the party ended, Rainbow, Pinkie and Scootaloo walked the little way to where the cloud house was hovering.

“Let’s go home kid!” said Rainbow to Scoot, then she leaped into the air, Scootaloo followed.

As the landed at the door, Pinkie opened it for them.

“Just can’t help pulling that can you Pink!” said Rainbow, they all three laughed.

Scootaloo was shown inside, there was a guest room that Scootaloo used on some of her visits.  Rainbow and Pinkie led her to it.  They opened the door for her her and where there had been a spartanly furnished room, there was now a room decorated for an athletic teenaged filly.

There were posters of the Wonderbolts and the latest colt-bands.  There were other items that glorified the arts of flying and music, obviously done by Rainbow.

Then there were enough girly touches to remind the visitor that it was indeed a filly that lived here, heart shaped throw pillows, pink comforter on the bed, a makeup vanity and other items that matched tastefully, obviously done by Pinkie.

“When did you get time to do this?” asked Scootaloo. “It is a room like I have always wanted!  My own room!”

“We started doing this when we decided to adopt you,” said Pinkie.

There were tears of joy on Scootaloo’s cheeks.  She no longer cared to try to stay cool.  She was home with ponies that wanted her and cared for her.  Scootaloo hugged Rainbow and Pinkie.

“Thank you so much.  This is all I ever wanted.  You are all I ever wanted.  Parents that are there for me.” She started to sob, “I love my new mothers so much.”

“We love you too,” said Rainbow and Pinkie together.

That evening there was much happiness and tears of joy in the Dash home.

Chapter Eight: Flashback To Dawn 2

CHAPTER EIGHT

Flashback To Dawn 2

Two(ish) years earlier:

Twilight awoke to an odd feeling.  Bubbles was curled up in her forelegs.  The ‘glow’ of their earlier love-making was still there.  Bubbles really knew how to please her.  Twilight had an occasional bout of insomnia in the past.  She would read into all hours of Luna’s night.  But now that was never a problem.  A session of sex with her wife was enough to relax Twilight and allow blissful sleep.

But there was something that had disturbed this slumber.  With all of Twilight being so in tuned to the world of magic around her, she could tell when something was out of place.  Twilight got out of bed as carefully as she could but Bubbles still stirred.

“Twilight honey,” said the drowsy pegasus, “what’s wrong?”

“Probably nothing,” replied Twilight, “go back to sleep.”

Bubbles turned over and complied.  Twilight went downstairs, she looked all about the library level, but there was nothing out of place.  The doors were secured, the windows were closed.  She then went back up to the living level.  Aside from signs of Spike having made a midnight snack and not cleaning up after himself (again), the kitchen/eating area was fine.  She then went to the sleeping rooms.

Sparkler’s room was empty, she had been staying at a client’s home lately, but nothing out of place.

She then looked in on Muffin.  Spike was curled up in his basket/bed, blue blanked wrapped around him.  Muffin was fast asleep in her bed, Twilight’s old Smarty-Pants doll keeping her company.

Twilight crept over to Dawn’s crib, peeked in and to her horror it was empty.

“BUBBLES!” Twilight screamed.

Bubbles was in there in a flash.

“Dawn is gone!” said Twilight about to go into one of her panics.

“Where is she?” asked Bubbles.

Twilight just gave her the ‘I can’t believe you just asked that’ face.

Muffin was awakened by the noise as was Spike.

“Muffin, did you move Dawn?” asked Twilight.

“No mom,” replied the filly, “I have been sleeping.”

“I did not hear anything either,” said Spike.

“Get up and help us look.” Said Bubbles to the two.

They proceeded to turn the library upside-down, books were removed from shelves, cabinets were emptied, closets torn apart.

“She is not here!”  Said Twilight, jogging in place, her panic almost to the uncontrollable level.

“Look outside,” said Bubbled.  They went to the door and opened it in time to see Rainbow and Pinkie about to knock.  Pinkie had Dawn on her back.

“Twi, have you ever turned over to kiss your wife only to find a little filly in between you and her?  I just did,” said Rainbow.

They came inside and went up to the kitchen area, Bubbles put Dawn back to bed.  The little foal lay down and appeared to be asleep by the time Bubbles left the room.  Muffin and Spike went back to bed as well.  Twilight was making some tea while Rainbow and Pinkie were sitting at the table.

“How in Equestria did Dawn get in your bed?” asked Bubbles sitting down at the table.

Twilight poured all a cup of tea.

“Obviously magic,” said Twilight, “but who’s.  How have you advanced with teleportation Pinkie?”

“I can teleport from the ground to the cloud house and back without any problem.  But when I try from any real distance, well the last time,” said the pink pony, “I ended up ten feet above our cloud house, good thing they are so soft.  I have been able to move objects, but nothing like bringing a foal from somewhere else to me.”

“I know Muffin is starting to exhibit a lot of talent but she is nowhere near this level.” Said Twilight.  “I have heard of ponies, while they are learning magic, doing magic in their sleep.  Understand that they are normally are young fillies and colts.   Do you remember dreaming about Dawn, Pinkie?”

“No Twi, I was dreaming about Dashie’s….” she said with a sly smile, “I don’t think I will say any more about that.”

Rainbow was slightly blushing.

“Come on Pinkie,” said Bubbles, “we all here have seen and experienced Rainbow’s …….”

“I know that it has been years since I have sleep-spelled.” Said Twilight changing the subject.

They sat around talking about what might have happened when they heard a knock at the door, that was followed by the bell downstairs ringing showing that somepony had come in.

“Twilight!” cried Rarity’s voice. “Darling, are you up, the door was open.”

“Up here,” replied Twilight.

Applejack and Rarity came up the stairs, looking like they were just awakened from a sound sleep.

“I believe we have something of y’all’s.” Said Applejack.

On her back was Dawn.

“How in the name of Celestia!” said Bubbles, she got up and bolted to the living quarters.

A.J. placed the little foal on the floor to play.

There was a cry from Bubbles in the back rooms;

“She is gone again!”

“Obviously,” said Twilight frustrated, “now I know Rarity cannot do teleportation, unless something had changed.”

Rarity shook her head showing that she could not.

Bubbles came back in the room.

“What is going on?” asked Bubbles.

“I am starting to think that Dawn is having magic spurts,” said Twilight, “but I have never heard of anything at this level!”

“Well, let me put her to bed and we can figure this out.” Said Bubbles, then looking around, “where is she?”

“Not again!” said Twilight.

They all started looking around.

Several minutes later they heard the bell downstairs followed by a timid voice.

“Hello, Twilight, Bubbles?” said Fluttershy’s voice, “am I bothering you?”

“You can bring Dawn up here.” Bubbles called out.

“How did you know?” said the yellow pegasus.

Fluttershy came up the stairs holding Dawn in one of her wings.

“Why should you be any different?” said Rarity.

Fluttershy came in and noticed that all her friends were there.

Bubbles took Dawn from Fluttershy, and held her under her wing.  She was going back to put her to bed.

“Wait,” said Twilight, “keep her here with us, and for Celestia’s sake, hold on to her.”

“Alright, said Twilight, “when you found her Rainbow, she was in the bed with you and Pinkie, correct?”

“Yes,” said Rainbow.

“And where did you find her,” said Twilight to Rarity and A.J.

“She was in our bed, in-between us,” answered Rarity.

“She was snuggled up to me as well,” said Fluttershy.

“You still have her honey?” asked Twilight to Bubbles.

“She is still in my wing, she appears to be sleeping.”

“Celestia said that alicorns have special needs,” said Twilight.  “Let us put her to bed with us for tonight, I think that is what she is wanting.  Tomorrow I will contact the princess to see what her take on this is.   I am sorry everypony, I hope you won’t be disturbed again.  And thank you for bringing her here.”

That next morning when they woke up, Dawn was sleeping peacefully in bed between them.

The morning process normally.  Bubbles fixed breakfast, Muffin went off to school.  Once the library was open and Spike had finished his morning chores.  Twilight and Bubbles sent a letter through Spike to the princess informing her of the nights happenings.

They waited for a response, but it was late in the evening, after dinner when there was a knock at the door.  When the door was opened there stood Princess Celestia.

“I understand that you are having a minor issue with Dawn,” said the princess with a smile.

“If you mean her showing up in bed with our friends, several times, in the night.  Then I would say that is an accurate assessment, your highness,” said Twilight.

The princess smiled.

“I was expecting this, but not this soon,” said the princess.  “Alicorns are always powerful when their magic starts.  Being your daughter, Twilight, she should be even more so.  She is too young for the School for Gifted Unicorns, so she is going to have to have some pony work with her for the next couple of years.”

“I am not sure if I am qualified to do this,” said Twilight.

“I know you are not.” Said the princess smiling, “that is nothing to do with your talents.  But she will need an alicorn to tutor her.  Not on a full time basis, three time a week would be fine.”

“You are going to work with her?” asked Bubbles.

“No, my dear,” said the princess, “not me, my sister.”

“Princess Luna?” asked Twilight.

“Somepony say my name?’ said Luna, coming in the door.  “I understand that I get to have some Dawn time.  I wondered what it would take to get to see my niece more often.”

“Highness,” said Twilight, “we would be honored.”

“I will let you talk about the details.” Said Celestia, “I have business back at Canterlot.  I look forward to hearing about the progress from my sister.”

With that, Celestia said her good-bye’s and left.

“Will we have to bring her to Canterlot, princess?”  asked Twilight.

“Does she ever pay attention to what anypony tells her?” asked Luna to Bubbles.

“Apparently not,” said Bubbles.

“I understand from my niece, your sister-in-law, Cadence, that she threatened to shove her tiara up you muzzle if you called her princess again.” Luna said with a wicked grin, “I am considering an orifice on the other end of the digestive tract.”

“Oooo!” squealed Bubbles, “I would love to see that!  Call her princess, Darling!”

“I can see how deeply she loves you Twilight,” said Luna.

“Tell me about it!” said Twilight.  But she kissed Bubbles anyway.

“So, where is my new apprentice?’ asked Luna.

“Apprentice?” asked Bubbles.

“You don’t think that an alicorn who shows this much promise would be fated to be a shopkeeper?” said Luna.  “But this is important, nopony else is to know about this, the apprentice part that is, until I disclose it.  Even to this precious foal.”

Chapter Nine: Dancing to Music and Love

CHAPTER NINE

Dancing to Music and Love

Back in the present:

The dance was that night.  The graduation had been exciting; all the graduating class was so looking forward to a summer of fun and friendship, then on to the next phase of school.  And they were all going to be together that next school year.

It had looked as if they would be losing one of their own.  But that was averted and all six were happy!  Two of their number had found new mothers, and two had found real love.  They had stuck all together through a very trying time and came out ahead.

At Carousel Boutique, Rarity was making extra sure that her sister and her marefriend looked spectacular.  All their friends had come in for the final fitting and had picked up their dresses and left.  Rarity had saved Diamond and Sweetie for last on purpose.

The final stitch was checked, the last wrinkle was pressed out and the last loose button was fixed.  Rarity knew what she had to do next.  She was and was not looking forward to what she was about to talk about.

She loved her sister dearly and was a little sad that she was getting older and not the innocent little filly that it only took Rarity to show up at the Sisterhooves Social to make her happy.

Now Sweetie Belle was in love, and her marefriend loved her as much.  Rarity had seen this before, and it did not matter that they had just last week, within days of each other, turned fifteen; they were mature enough to know what love was and what was an infatuation or crush.

She also knew that these dances often involved another type of graduation, one that Rarity knew that at her sister’s age she hopped that they would be mature enough to handle the choice.

At least there was no possibility of an unplanned foal, she thought as she tried to find anything that would ease the apprehension.

“You two look truly beautiful,” said Rarity. “I don’t just say that because you are my sister and her marefriend.”

“Thank you sis,” answered Sweetie Belle.

“Thank you Mrs. Apple,” said Diamond.

Rarity gathered herself; the girls could tell that she had something to say.

“What’s up sis,” asked Sweetie.

“I know that I asked you to come to me before you two intended to go beyond kissing,” said Rarity, “and I believe that you have not gotten any further because you have not said anything to me, and I trust you.  And I told you Sweetie Belle that we would have the talk concerning how sex between two mares works.  I think we should have that talk now.”

The girls looked at each other then at Rarity.  They looked scared and excited.

“You have read the books I gave you, so you know the workings of the physical side, how it is done, so to say.

There is really not much more that I could add, it has always been trial and error.  And to be honest with you, that is the most fun part.

You will be tempted to explore each other, this is natural because you are at the line between adolescent and adult.

But something the books do not cover.  And that is no matter what the relationship is, either just casual or deeply committed, there an emotional and personal side that cannot be explained in a book.  And it must not be overlooked.

Kissing is just the tip of the iceberg.   Kissing does not have to lead to anything further and some can kiss without connection or involvement.  It does not really change your life.

Sex, on the other hoof, is totally different.  A lot of fillies and colts have had their first ‘experience’ after dances like this.  I am not going to tell you not to, and I am not going to tell you go ahead.  This is something you must decide for yourselves.

So I am going to tell you two important things.

First, once you have sex, once you lose you virginity, and having sex between two mares counts, it can never be the same.  You can’t get it back, once lost it is lost forever.  And I say mares because if this is an option in your relationship, if you have even considered it, then you are no longer fillies.  And I am proud of the level of control you have shown with each other.  So remember, if you are going to lose your virginity, make sure it is with a pony that you will not regret that you lost it with them.  It is truly a wonderful gift to give a pony, don’t waste it.

Second, sex is an intensely personal and intimate thing.  Once you have sex with a pony, it changes everything.  You can never just be friends again.  No matter how casual a pony tries to be, the act involves lowering almost every barrier that we build to protect our private self.  You are sharing your very body with another pony.  During the act, you become one.  And after, they take away a part of you and you them.  Make sure it is a pony you want to be a part of forever.

Promise me you will at least think about this before you decide to do anything.”

The girls nodded.

“I know that with the excitement of the dance, the arousal you can get by holding each other close as you feel the music, and feel the warmth of your partner, it can wear down even the strongest control.

There are a couple hours between the dance and the Graduation All Night Party at Sweet Apple Acres.  This is to let ponies change or just rest before the party.  However, this time is often used for other activities.

With that in mind, I am going to loan you the key to Carousel Boutique.  I am not implying that I am giving you permission to do anything, nor am I telling you not to.  I am sure if you make that choice, if you two think that you are able to handle the consequences, then I want to give you somewhere safe and clean to go if you decide to do this.  Not behind some bushes on the dirty ground or in some filthy barn.  My room is at your disposal, just clean up after yourselves.

Don’t tell me that you don’t plan on it, because I do believe you.  It is just things do happen that you never intend to.  Just be careful and be smart.”

Rarity wiped a tear from her eye and gave the two girls a kiss on the cheek.

“We will remember what you have said,” said Diamond Tiara.

“We promise,” continued Sweetie Belle.

The girls took their dresses and left to get ready.  There was two hours until the dance, hardly enough time for teenaged girls to get ready for the biggest night of their lives, so far.

Rarity watched as they left Carousel Boutique, they gave each other a small kiss and went in different directions to go home and get ready.

Applejack walked up to Rarity, she had been the next room, listening.

“Good advice Sugar Cube,” said A.J. “do you think they listened?”

“If Pinkie Dash was here, she would say ‘they are totally going to do it!’  but I  am not so sure.  To have been sneaking around for as long as they have and not done anything apart from kissing, and I do believe them, you have to give them credit.  But they will be sorely tempted tonight.  I think they will make the right decision, even if the decision is to go that next step.”  Rarity said, “did you get the things I asked for, Darling?”

“I did, they are in the bedroom,” replied A.J.

“Then come upstairs with me and lend me a hoof.” Said Rarity, then as almost an afterthought she kissed A.J. passionately, “have I told you lately just how much I love you and depend on you.”

“You have Sugar Cube,” said A.J. with a smirk, “but I will listen again, if it will make you feel better!”

“Oh you,” said Rarity, giving A.J. a little love tap.  They went upstairs together to do what Rarity had planned.

At this moment, Rarity was ‘sorely tempted’ herself.  Especially following A.J. up the stairs with a nice view of the rippling muscles of A.J.’s flanks.  And with each flick of her tail, it revealed the sight of her marehood almost at Rarity’s eye level.  Rarity figured that if the bed might be used for love that evening, perhaps they should make sure it was working correctly.

Sweetie Belle was met at the door by Mr. and Mrs. Rich.  The sight of Sweetie in her dress brought a smile to their faces.  There was no hint of any resistance from Filthy, perhaps he really did pull his head out of his flanks.  They invited Sweetie in the front room and they made small talk while waiting for Diamond to come out.

As Diamond walked into the front room, Filthy and Nouveau delighted in the smile that spread on Sweetie Belle’s face when Diamond Tiara entered the room.  Sweetie thought that Diamond had never looked prettier, she was wearing, like herself, just a touch of makeup and her matching dress.  She was also wearing her tiara, which at one time was worn as an attempt to appear superior, but now she wore it to please her marefriend.  Sweetie thought that it did make her look like a princess, especially since she had not worn in a while.

“You girls look beautiful,” said Filthy Rich, with a genuine smile.  “But there is something missing.”

“You are right dear,” said Nouveau Rich, “do you know what it is?”

Sweetie looked confused, but Diamond was smiling.

“I know!” said Filthy, “it is this!”

Filthy produced a matching tiara and put gently on Sweetie Belle’s head.

“For her very own, now our girls match perfectly!”  Said Filthy.

Sweetie caught the meaning, she was being fully accepted as more than just their daughter’s friend.  Sweetie Belle hugged Mr. and Mrs. Rich.

“Thank you for everything.” Said Sweetie.

“It is not enough to make up for the past.  And I know it is early, but if fate takes that road, you will always be welcome in our family.”  Said Filthy Rich with a tear in his eye.

Nouveau gave Filthy a quick kiss.  It appeared that Filthy’s change of heart was complete enough to allow a display of affection.  Filthy liked the way it felt to allow emotion and not be ashamed.  Perhaps that was the reason he could never hardly remember his father smiling.

Filthy and Nouveau both gave the girls a kiss on the cheek and admonished them to be careful and have fun.  And that they would see them at Sweet Apple Acres.

The Girls had arranged to meet at the main house at Sweet Apple Acres before going to the dance.  That way they could arrive together.  Their dates were to meet the fillies there.

Had you told the fillies four years ago, that they would be going to the biggest party of their lives with the colts (and filly) they were going with, you would have been met with a laugh.  But just as the fillies had matured, so had the colts.  Some had slimmed down, some had filled out and all had grown, in stature and maturity.

Featherweight was now as tall as any of the other colts.  He had the honor of escorting Scootaloo Dash, and the horror of asking Rainbow Dash for permission.

Snips had lost his baby fat and his teeth had been straightened.  He was still slightly shorter than his classmates but his attitude had changed.  He was still a little bit of a joker, but he had toned it down.  He had the pleasure of escorting Apple Bloom Apple to the dance.

Snails was still tall and lanky, but he had filled out nicely.  He was still slightly slow, but no pony could tell if it he was truly slow or that he was keeping up a front.  But down deep he was a gentle pony that cared for his classmates.  He was greatly surprised when Dinky Sparkle accepted his offer to escort her.

Shady Daze had had his eye on Silver Spoon for years.  He was delighted when he heard through Diamond Tiara that Silver Spoon was waiting for him to ask her to the dance.

All the colts were waiting in the parlor at the Apple house for the girls to make their appearance.  They were nervous under the eyes of the girl’s parents and relatives.  Applejack and Rarity were serving light refreshments.  Twilight, Bubbles, Rainbow, Pinkie, Filthy, Nouveau, Magnum and Pearl were there to see off their daughters and take pictures of the couples together.

It was the first time Rarity had a chance to ask her parents about what they thought of Sweetie Belle dating Diamond Tiara.

“I think it is a down right shame to have two fillies dating, kissing and all,”  Said Magnum.

Rarity looked shocked.

“Honey, he is only pulling your leg,” said Pearl, “he gave you away at your wedding, remember?  When we met Diamond we were so delighted with Sweetie Belle’s choice, Diamond is as nice a filly as you could ask for.  I could think of a lot worse choices she could have made.”

Apple Bloom called from the hallway.

“They’re here!”

Sweetie Belle and Diamond Tiara had came in through the kitchen door.  As not to spoil the surprise.

“Come in girls,” said Rarity.

Applejack had a camera ready to catch the colt’s and parents’ faces when they first saw the girls in their gowns by Rarity.

Being that they already had a date, Sweetie Belle and Diamond Tiara entered first.  Rarity was misty eyed to see her sister and Diamond in the gowns she had made and wearing a bit of makeup.  She thought that the tiaras were a classy touch.  They went and stood by Magnum, Pearl, Filthy, Nouveau, Rarity and Applejack.

The rest of the girls filled in, one at a time, each colt could not believe their eyes.  They had never seen their classmates looking this lovely.  The colts had on outfits that matched the colors in their date’s gowns.  All in all, there were ten young ponies who right now looked very adult.

“You all look marvelous!” said Rarity.  “I am proud of each and every one of you.”

Even Applejack was a little misty to see her daughter looking so lovely, she was misty eyed also because she now had a daughter to look lovely.

“Okay y’all,” said Applejack, “I am going to walk y’all to the dance at the Town Hall.  It is from 5:00 to 7:00.  You will have two hours to change, if you want, and be back here by 9:00 for the All Night Graduation Party.  Come hungry and ready to have a good time.”

They walked through the late afternoon air, a slight breeze was blowing.  The ponies of Ponyville watched as the group passed by.  All the kids were feeling very special.

As they got to Town Hall, there were other couples and individuals arriving.  All had the same look of excitement.  Applejack left them there.

As the group entered, they were greeted by Miss Cheerilee and a couple other ponies that helped at the school.  They were all introduced to the teachers from Ponyville High.

The band was already playing, and there were a few brave ponies on the dance floor already.  There were decorations of CONGRATULATIONS and GOOD LUCK everywhere.  Along the wall were chairs and tables with snacks and soft drinks.  The entire group thought this the grandest thing they had ever seen.

They found some chairs together and claimed their spot.  The colts offered to get their dates some refreshments.  Diamond and Sweetie got up to go as well.

“No Sweetie, Diamond, we will go for you.  You stay here with the rest of the ladies, ” said Shady Daze, “come on guys.”

The colts walked off, leaving the fillies to feel like they were something special.

“This is so awesome!” said Scootaloo, “I have never had so many good things happen to me in a month!”

“I know!” said Apple Bloom.  “We both got new mothers!  Now we are at the dance we have been waiting on.  We graduated and now we party!  We have a whole summer to look forward to.”

“A summer of friends,” said Silver Spoon, “and who knows, maybe we will walk away from here with new coltfriends!”

“I hope not!” said Diamond laughing.

“I’m with you!” said Sweetie Belle.

“And I am so glad of that,” said Diamond, they exchanged a kiss.

“Well if things go right,” said Dinky, “you two might have to teach us that.”

The friends all laughed.

The guys returned with treats and drinks.

They had barely started on the snacks when a new song started playing.  Diamond took Sweetie’s hoof and they took off to the dance floor.  Their friends all joined them, along with a good number of their class mates.

The sight of Sweetie Belle and Diamond Tiara dancing together gave courage to other fillies that did not have dates to go on the floor and have fun.  Many did not know that Sweetie and Diamond were a couple.

The girls occasionally did that purely female thing of having to go to the ‘Little Filly’s Room’ en mass.  They were touching up their manes and/or makeup.  But there was more talking than anything.

“I am so jealous of you two.” Said Silver Spoon to Diamond and Sweetie, “I am having a great time, but nothing like it looks with you two.”

“I think that we are having fun, don’t you Sweetie Belle?” asked Diamond.

“I would say that is accurate,” replied Sweetie.

They all laughed.

“I was not sure what it was going to be like,” said Dinky, “this is nicer than I imagined.”

“I agree,” said Scootaloo, “Featherweight is a lot more interesting than I had thought.  I don’t know if he is just ‘coming on to me’ but he says he wants to meet sometime so I can give him flying lessons.”

“And who would have thought that Snips was such a good dancer,” said Apple Bloom.

The music was spritely and they all enjoyed the dance.  Then near the last half hour, the band started to play some slow music.  This brought some trepidation to many of the dates.  But Diamond and Sweetie had been looking forward to this.  They were the first out on the floor for the slow dances.

The feeling was heaven, Rarity was right.  With the all the dancing, Sweetie Belle found Diamond Tiara to be pleasantly warm.  Diamond could not help but think that Sweetie was so soft.  They both could smell the little perfume that they each dared to wear.  Each had their head against the neck of the other, eyes closed, one foreleg around the other.  They could hear the music and they could feel their partner and that was all that mattered.  Occasionally they would draw their heads back enough to look the other in the eye.  Many tender ‘I love you’s’ were exchanged.

When the music stopped, they would go back to their chairs.  They needed to rest longer after the slow dancing than they did the fast.

The evening went on until Miss Cheerilee came up on stage to say how proud she had been to teach them, and how mature they had behaved at the dance, also that the Apples had invited all to the Graduation All Night Party at Sweet Apple Acres.  Then the final song was introduced, Cheerilee went to the dance floor and was met by Big Mac.  All went out and joined for one last dance.  There were tears as they realized what this meant.

After the song stopped, they all said goodbye to their classmates and left the building.  They all agreed to meet back at the main house at Sweet Apple Acres before going to the barn for the party.  Then they all turned and went their separate ways, some alone and some as couples.

Sweetie Belle and Diamond Tiara stood there for a moment, just holding hooves and watching their friends depart.  They looked in each other’s eyes.  There were no questions exchanged, they started walking to Carrousel Boutique.

Sweetie Belle unlocked the door, it was dark inside but Sweetie knew it like the back of her hoof.  They looked inside then at each other.

“We don’t have to do this, if you don’t want,” said Sweetie.

Her answer was a kiss and being led inside by the hoof.  They locked the door and just stood inside kissing.  Sweetie would stroke Diamond’s mane.  Diamond would kiss Sweetie’s neck.  They took the other by the hoof and Sweetie Belle let them up the stair.

The sight that met them, they were not ready for.  There was soft light from candles, on the bed were rose peddles and one red rose on each of the two pillows.  By the bed, on the nightstand, was a plate of chocolate-dipped strawberries.  There were two champagne flutes and a bottle of sparkling cider on ice.  The lights were dim and there was perfume in the air.

“Oh my gosh!” said Diamond.

“You can tell my sister is the romantic one,” said Sweetie Belle with a giggle.

They entered the room then after a quick kiss they started to undo their dresses.

“May I help you with that?” said Sweetie, Diamond nodded.

There was a magic aura and the dresses easily slipped off.

“I like having a unicorn for my marefriend.” Said Diamond with a special smile.  The feel of her marefriend undressing her was arousing.

They sat on the edge of the bed and ate a strawberry or two and drank some of the cider.  Then they kissed and lay back on the bed.

They both were thinking of what they had read.  They also remembered that Rarity said that the trial and error was the fun part.

They kissed more passionately than they had ever done.  Sweetie would kiss Diamond down her neck on to her chest.  She got to her navel and paused,  then she worked her way back up.  Kissed some more then Diamond kissed Sweetie the same, down to the navel then back up.  They went back and forth with variations of this, then they stopped.

As they held each other close, they were trembling.  Then looking in each other’s eyes, Sweetie stroked Diamond’s mane, then down her back to her tail,  then she moved her hoof around Diamond’s hip and to her lower abdomen, she felt Diamond’s nipples and stroked them lightly.  She paused and kissed Diamond again.  Diamond looked at Sweetie and nodded her head.

Sweetie moved her hoof down between Diamond’s legs, paused then worked up the nerve and brought it to her marehood.  Diamond shuddered, Sweetie lightly rubbed it on the outside.  Diamond put her head against Sweetie’s shoulder and let out a little moan.  Sweetie continued but this time she allowed her hoof to barely enter her partner’s marehood.  At this, Diamond looked back up at Sweetie and kissed her deeply.  As they kissed Sweetie felt Diamond’s hoof at her marehood.  They were exploring the other as much as they could work up the nerve.

It was getting hard to think straight.

“You’re wet,” said Diamond.

“So are you.  Your hoof feels so nice.  You feel so nice.”

“I love you, Sweetie Belle.  I love you so much!”

“I love you more than I have ever loved any other pony.” Said Sweetie Belle.

They kissed again and again.

“Diamond, I am feeling strange,” said Sweetie Belle.

“Me two, I think we need to stop and talk,” said Diamond, “I don’t want to, I really, really don’t.  But before we go on.  We should at least talk about it.”

“I agree,” said Sweetie Belle.

They both removed their hooves from the other’s marehood.  They just lay back for a moment, catching their breath.  They both did not realize how heavy their breathing had become.  Then they turned and faced each other, holding the other at foreleg’s length.

“Diamond, my sister said that we should be sure the pony we lose our virginity to was a pony you would never regret losing it with.  A pony that you would not be sorry that you were always a part of them, and they are a part of you.  I am sure that you are that pony,” Sweetie paused.

“But I don’t know if I am really ready to take this step.  I want you more than anything I have ever wanted before, I really, really do.  And I love you so much, and I am sure of your love for me.  But if we are truly meant for each other, then we have plenty of time.”

There were tears in Diamond’s eyes.

“Did I say something that hurt you?” asked Sweetie.

Diamond kissed Sweetie deeply.

“No my darling!  No!  I feel the same way.  We don’t need to rush our love just because we had a dance and have a room now.  I am sure if you asked your sister, she would let us use the room again.

We should get dressed and go to the party, before we can’t stop ourselves from doing what we should do at a better time.”

“I agree,” said Sweetie with a smile, “ we still have time to kiss and then eat the rest of the strawberries!”

They both giggled as they kissed.  They loved each other very much, and now they respected each other as much.

On their way to Sweet Apple Acres they talked about the future.  How they were sure that their futures were connected.  They talked about what they wanted to do after they finish school, then Diamond brought up something that Sweetie had thought about before.

“Sweetie, you realize that we are now fifteen.  Did you know that we could get married next year?”

Sweetie stopped and looked at Diamond.

“Married?  You would really want to do that?” asked Sweetie, “I had thought about that but I thought I would wait to bring it up.  After all, we were not ready for sex,  will we be ready for such a larger step? I guess that will come with time.  I just wanted you know that I was not trying to rush anything.  But I guess that would give us at least a year to try and test our relationship.  Don’t think that I am trying to avoid it.  As I said, I have thought about it as well.  And I can think of no other pony that I would want to spend my life with.  I think I love you that much more for this!”

They stopped and kissed, it did not matter that they were in the middle of Ponyville or what ponies were watching.

“I am your forever,” said Diamond with a smile.

“And I am yours…… forever,” replied Sweetie Belle.

Diamond and Sweetie entered the Apple house.  The others had not arrived and Rarity was sitting in the front room as if waiting on them.  She could not help seeing the grins on both their faces, they were truly a happy couple. She looked at the girls and raised an eyebrow.

“I see that you made use of my gift.”

“How did you know?” asked Sweetie Belle.

“First, Diamond has a little bit of chocolate on the corner of her mouth, second you both have rose petals stuck in your manes.

But most importantly, in the low light.....  you put on the wrong dresses.”

The girls looked at each other and all three burst out laughing.

“Thank you sis for the beautiful room.  It was a great gift.  To bad we did not make full use of it.”

“How do you mean?”

Diamond responded;

“It’s like this, Mrs. Apple...”

Rarity stopped her;

“Young foals and children call me Mrs. Apple.  Adults and family call me Rarity.  I think you are at least one of those, if not the other in the future.

You figured that there is indeed time to be with each other and explore the depth of your love.”

“You know what we talked about?” asked Diamond.

“I did not…. until now.  I knew that you would be tempted, and even get to the ‘foreplay’ level.  Didn’t it feel just as good to stimulate the other as it was to be stimulated?”

Both girls were in shock, it was if she had been there.

“Were you watching sis?”

“No, that is more Pinkie Dash’s thing.” Said Rarity with a wink, “but again, I did not know until now.  But as I was said before, I believed that you would make the right choice.

I also thought if you were mature enough to make a decision with your head and heart and not your loins, you would figure that there will be a right time in the future.

I bet you also talked about the fact that next year you will be sixteen, old enough for ponies to marry.  Do I need to start those other matching dresses I mentioned before?”

Diamond and Sweetie Belle looked more and more dumbfounded.

“Not yet sis, but I am sure you will in the not too distant future.”

“You are that sure?” asked Rarity.

“No, not yet,” said Diamond, “but unless the unthinkable happens, we figure that our love will continue to grow.”

“I was right to trust you two, and I look forward to that day when I can make those dresses.  But for now, just be there for each other and think with your heart and head, not your marehoods!  The rest will follow.”

Chapter Ten: Party!

CHAPTER TEN

Party!

The Graduation All Night Party was ever more special that the Graduation Dance.  At the dance, they were still under the eyes of the school authority.  Here they were still under the watchful eyes of the Apples, but the feeling was more at ease.

There were wonderful treats that only the Apple Family could produce.  It was a fantastic party!

The more bashful and less adventurous who weld back at the official dance, were more incline to try to hold the hoof of their date.  Most of whom wondered what took them so long.  There were still a brave few who stole a kiss to two and got away with it.

Diamond and Sweetie would watch the couples with their feeble attempts at romance.  Often they would look at each other and comment, ‘Amateurs!’ But they had dignity enough not to demonstrate the correct methods among their peers.  They had each other and their families fully accepted both their relationship and their pledge that they would not go further than kissing, at least not too much past.

Pinkie made sure that there were lively games going most of the night.

Vinyl Scratch played all the most popular music.  There was some songs thrown in for the enjoyment of the older chaperons.  But she purposely limited the slow songs until near the end of the party.  Not so much for fear of amorous side effects, but to keep the energy level up.  But there were some thrown in for good measure.  Sweetie and Diamond were so happy when one started.  They did notice that here, the ponies were more likely to dance these slow ones, even the ponies who were too timid to at the official dance.

Once again, Diamond and Sweetie delighted in the feeling of their partner close and warm.  They knew that this is the feeling that they wanted to feel forever.  But they knew that it would be some time before they could actually be married, they realized that a year would be too soon.

Both of their parents were there to oversee the party, along with Rarity and Applejack.  Sweetie and Diamond had talked with each other and they had a proposition for their families.

They got their parents and Rarity and A.J. to one side to ask.

“Mom, dad, sis, Applejack,” said Sweetie Belle, “Mr. and Mrs. Rich, we have a question we would like to ask.”

“You know that we love each other very much,” continued Diamond, “we know we are not old enough to marry yet.”

“Yes, and…” said Filthy.

“We don’t want to sneak around like we did in the past, we want you to be able to trust us,” said Sweetie Belle, “and we want to let you know that we swear that we will never go past kissing until we are older and married, if that is what happens.  We promise this no matter what you answer is.  But we would like to have your permission to stay with each other from time to time.”

“We totally respect whatever decision you make.  And promise whatever you say we honor,” Said Diamond.

“You two have been respectful and reserved.” Said Filthy, “I think that we could respect your word until proven otherwise.  What do you think, Magnum?”

“I think that I wish there were more kids out there who were as open and trustworthy.  I would have no problem with them staying with each other.  At least they would be where they could be monitored,” replied Magnum.

“What do you think ladies?” asked Filthy.

“I am proud that they had the nerve to approach us with this,” said Nouveau.  “They could have just been deceitful and went about with stories of ‘sleepovers’ and did whatever unsupervised.  I applaud their honesty.”

“And I would not mind an extra daughter around the home.  If they do hangout at our homes, then they should be expected to behave as part of the family, chores and all,” said Pearl.  “I think that is where they are headed anyway.  And we have all summer to test this.”

“I agree,” said Rarity, “I think we should put them to work to earn their keep.  If they want to live like adults, then they need to act like adults.”

The girls thought they would burst, they never expected it to be this easy.

“But!” interjected Filthy, “if we find that the trust is broken, all agreements are off.  And you both will be under extreme scrutiny until you are out of school and on your own.”

Then Filthy smiled and added, “But I don’t think it would ever come to that.”

“Enough of this ‘grown up’ stuff tonight,” said A.J. “just enjoy this, your party, for now.  Maybe we can all meet tomorrow for dinner and talk about how we would work this.”

All agreed to this and the girls enjoyed the rest of the night feeling like they were in heaven.  They had the party, they had the backing of their parents and they had each other.

EPILOG FOR PART ONE

High School

Diamond Tiara and Sweetie Belle continued to grow deeper in love.  They did not get married the next year, they decided to wait until the end of High School.

Their herculean control of their sex drive lasted the following four years.  They had decided that if they would be getting married, they would save that special gift of their virginity as a wedding night gift to each other.

That did not stop them from some exploring.  However, they did not cross the line, but they did dance on the ragged edge.  Their parents had come to trust their control so much that they trusted them to sleepover without the worry of them going too far overboard.

Their friends totally supported and respected their relationship, and even looked to them as an example of how to behave in a relationship and not to rush the important things.

With their exposure to each other’s family, they were accepted as members before the actual nuptials.  It also became an inspiration for their life’s work.

Scootaloo Dash reaped the rewards of being the daughter of the greatest flyer in Equestria.  She was the captain of Ponyville High School’s flying race team four years straight, plus they had the great fortune that her mother, Rainbow helped to coach.  Scootaloo led the school to four Equestria High School championships, beating out each time the perennial champions, Cloudsdale High.

There was an added bonus, with Pinkie having broken the unicorn magic barrier, Scootaloo was taught some magic that made her life easier, like levitation.  She was so good that Twilight Sparkle decided to give her magic lessons along with Dinky and Sweetie Belle.

Silver Spoon continued to be the best friend to everypony.  Her compassion and spirit was influential to those around her.  Her relationship with Shady Daze continued at a much lower level than Diamond and Sweetie’s.  But it did last.  Shady was a fun colt to be with and was very attentive to her and her friend’s needs.  He proved to be a gentlepony and good friend.  Plus Silver found him ‘very easy on the eyes’.

Apple Bloom continued to learn the family business.  Zecora still mentored Apple Bloom as an apprentice, the zebra told her that with her connection to the earth, would assist her with her understanding of the magic of nature.  She was told by her teacher that if she stayed serious in her studies under her, she would be an exceptional shaman.

Dinky Sparkle proved to be a bit of an enigma, she was quiet and reserved, more than any of her other friends.  But her mother, Twilight, found that this filly had the potential to be a great unicorn.  Bubbles attributed it to Shooting Star’s blood and Twilight’s guidance.  Had it been discovered sooner, she would have went to Celestia’s School For Gifted Unicorns.  The princess was consulted about this, but Twilight was told that the school could not train her daughter any better than Twilight could.  This was to prove important in the future.

Their friendship grew stronger and stronger.  There was to be great joy, and heartbreak as well.  They did not realize what this was training them for something special.  What fate had in store was something they never expected.

All this we will see in part two: Passing the Torch.

PART TWO OF: AND THE CHILDREN SHALL LEAD: Passing the Torch

Chapter One: Joy and Sadness

PART TWO OF:

AND THE CHILDREN SHALL LEAD

Passing the Torch

CHAPTER ONE

Joy and Sadness

The graduation from High School was grander than from Primary School, as it should have been.  It was now barely a week since the festivities.  There had not been a lot of trials these last four years.  The six friends had the time of their relatively carefree lives.

No matter the changes, the six friends stayed close.  There were coltfriends that came and went, but Diamond Tiara and Sweetie Belle stayed constant in their relationship.

Sweetie Belle and Diamond Tiara’s friends were all taking the summer off before whatever.

Scootaloo was following in Rainbow’s hoofsteps.  She was learning the art of the weather, plus she was learning magic from her other mother, Pinkie.  Twilight was so impressed that she gave extra lessons as well.

Dinky was happy to learn magic and library science from her mothers.

Silver Spoon was going to take education courses, and do student teaching at Ponyville School with Mrs. Cheerilee Apple, especially with the foal on the way!

Apple Bloom had continued to learn from Zecora and was making the zebra very pleased with her progress.

Diamond and Sweetie worked all they could in getting ready for adult life.  So much so, that the last year of school, they were staying with each other’s families quite a bit.  They would stay with the Rich’s for a week or so and then they would stay with Sweetie’s parents and occasionally with the Apples.  For Sweetie Belle, there were magic lessons with Twilight, Diamond had insisted.  But during the off times, that is after school, or lessons or on non school days, they would help out at Rich’s Barnyard Bargains, or help Rarity at the Carousel Boutique.  As they did, something not quite expected happened.

Sweetie Belle, who was always good with music and singing, found that her talent for improvisation allowed her to think creatively when it came to business.  She was able to help the Rich’s to make Barnyard Bargains more profitable.  She also found ways to increase sales and lower operating costs.  Yet every time Filthy tried to pay her she refused.  She said that with them treating her as part of the family, before it was official, was payment enough.  But they did make it up to her by feeding her and even covering the cost of her and Diamond’s movie outings and even some weekend trips to Canterlot.  Diamond was always happy to help in the family business, and was even happier to work along side Sweetie Belle.

The girls were shocked when Filthy Rich just laughed off the couple times they were caught in the stockroom kissing.

“Why do you think you have to hide it back here?” he would say and just shake his head and laugh,  “Do you think there is a pony in Ponyville who doesn’t know what you two do!”

Diamond Tiara on the other hoof, found that her taste in fashion was put to good use at the Carousel Boutique.  Rarity had noticed how Diamond had a flair for knowing what direction the younger set’s taste was going.

After a couple times of making some very valid suggestions to Rarity, Diamond was put before Rarity’s drawing table and asked to design something on her own.

Had Rarity been wearing socks, they would have been knocked off.  Rarity had Diamond go right to work and make the garment.  It was hardly on the dress form in the window before it was out the door.

Rarity also found that Diamond had a knack for sewing intricate details, she was able to do these things without the sewing machine, and without magic.

Diamond also refused any compensation from Rarity, she said that her training by one of the best designers in Equestria and acceptance by Rarity’s and Applejack’s families was payment enough.

It appeared that the girls were indeed going to follow the family business, just not the ones they might have thought.  But after all, when they married, the families would be united.

Rarity and Applejack Apple, Filthy and Nouveau Rich, Magnum and Pearl had invited the girls to a dinner at one of the nicest restaurants in Ponyville.  It was time to put plans in place for the wedding that Sweetie and Diamond had so patiently and almost painfully waited for.  With the wedding two weeks off, the time was getting short.

The Rich’s insisted on paying the tab for the wedding, but the Apples were able to convince the future in-laws that they would handle the catering.

Rarity had kidded in the past about having to make matching wedding dresses in the future.  In fact, she was thrilled that she would be doing it for her dear ‘little’ sister and her fiancée.  Filthy Rich had actually contacted Twilight Sparkle to do the ceremony.

The talk went to what the girls planned to do after the wedding.  They were not really wanting to go anywhere or do anything in particular.  They had, almost excruciatingly, resisted sex for four years.  To consummate their love at last was their only goal, and they were unashamedly open about it.

“So Sweetie, have you and Diamond decided what you are going to do about living arrangements after the wedding?” asked Filthy.

“Or have you girls even thought about it?” asked Rarity.

Diamond looked at Sweetie, there were sheepish looks on their faces.

“We haven’t talked about it.  It has been so easy for us just to be together, it hadn’t even crossed our minds.  I guess living the rest of our lives with families would not be the best arrangement.”  Said Sweetie Belle.

“I guess it is something we need to talk about, the wedding is less than a month away,” continued Diamond.

Rarity smiled at Filthy Rich, he nodded to Applejack.

“Living with family is not a bad option, if necessary.  The Apples have always done that, for the most part.  Cheerilee moved in the big house with Big Mac after their wedding and there is plenty of room, even with a foal on the way.

But we have something for y’all to think about.” Said A.J.

“Sweetie Belle, Diamond Tiara,” said Pearl, “your father and I have decided that we were going to provide you with everything you will need to run a household kitchen.  All the pots and pans, plates, cups and flatware.”

‘Mother and father’ was a generic title by this time.  Both girls called Magnum, Pearl, Filthy and Nouveau, mom and dad.  It did not matter to which set of parents they were addressing.  The parents were thrilled at this, having two loving daughters were better than just one.

“And your mother and I have decided,” said Filthy, “that we are going to provide the house hold furnishings, a bed, bedroom furniture plus living room and dining room furniture.”

“The Apple Family will be giving you rugs, linens and towels.  Plus Granny Smith has been working on a quilt the last four years for you.” Said A.J., “it appears that everything you need to start a household is going to be provided.”

“Thank you so very much!” exclaimed Diamond.

“We can never thank you enough!” said Sweetie Belle, then turning to Diamond, “I guess we now had better find our own home.”

“Before you do that,” said Rarity, “I have a proposition.”

The girls looked intently.

“Applejack, Apple Bloom and I move to our cottage during the fashion seasons, and back to the farm when it is planting and harvest time.  The apartment above Carousel Boutique remains mostly unused.  If the two of you want, it is yours at no cost, as long as you keep it up and as long as you are working with us.  I said with us, not for us.  After all, you are family to all of us, or you will be soon.  And as family, there are more responsibilities and expectations in a family business than just what an employee would have.  And that is as it should be.

We know that you have been working for Filthy and me for no compensation.  With you having your own household you are going to have to allow us to pay you a fair wage for your labor.  You are adults now and you are going to have to live that way.”

Diamond and Sweetie were stunned, this was nothing they expected.  There were tears in the girls eyes and there were hugs all around.

“Sweetie Belle and you too Diamond Tiara, we are so proud of you.  You have behaved as adults for the last four years while your friends were still adolescences.”  Said Magnum with a smile, “we all know about that room Rarity provided for you after the Primary School Graduation Dance, and we know what did not happen.  We could not ask for daughters better than you have been and how you have behaved.”

“I do have one more thing to ask you,” said Filthy, “this is especially for you Sweetie Belle.  I have talked to your mother and father, also your sister and Applejack.  They all said that they were okay with it.  Understand, it is not necessary, but I hope that you will think about it.

Your family, Sweetie, is like a lot of families in Equestria.  Unlike my family, they have no family name that is passed on.  So I wanted to know if you would do us the honor, proving that you have truly forgiven my past sins, of taking the family name of ‘Rich’ when you marry?”

Sweetie Belle got up and went to Filthy and Nouveau.  She hugged them tightly.

“I would be honored to do that.” Sweetie then looked at them and smiled, “but Diamond and I had already decided on that.”

This brought a smile to Filthy and a tear to his eyes.

“This has been a wonderful night,” said Rarity, “you and your friends need to come see me so I can finish your dresses.”

“Enough of this serious talk,” said Nouveau.  “Let us have dessert and enjoy the rest of this evening.”

That was not to be........

The late train from Appleloosa pulled into the station at Ponyville.  Braeburn and Caramel collected their bags, there was also one large, long box, which was put on a cart to be delivered to a prearranged address.  No pony at home was expecting them, the news had not reached the Apple Family yet.  They hired a taxi from where they took the box to Sweet Apple Acres.

The Apples, Richs, Rarity and Sweetie’s parents and the girls were leaving the restaurant when they saw Apple Bloom galloping at full tilt!

“Mama!  Mama!” shouted Apple Bloom.

“What’s up baby?” replied A.J.

“It’s Braeburn and Caramel!” said Apple Bloom, “they are here from Appleloosa.  They said they need to talk to the family.  I was told to get Twilight, Pinkie and Rainbow too.  They did not say why, but they looked terrible.”

Rarity turned to the girls.

“Go home with the Richs please.  If we need you, we will know where to find you.”

“Send for us if there is anything we can do,”  Said Filthy Rich.

Half an hour later, Twilight, Bubbles, Pinkie, Rainbow and the Apples; Applejack, Rarity, Big Mac and Apple Bloom were in the front room of the main house.  Granny Smith and Cheerilee were in the back with Caramel and Braeburn. Cheerilee walked Caramel into the room, Braeburn and Granny followed.  Caramel looked especially terrible.  He was leaning on Cheerilee, it appeared that he had been crying hard.

“Thank you for coming, family and friends.  I don’t know how to say this,” started Braeburn.

“What’s wrong?” asked Twilight, “has anything happened to Fluttershy?”

At the question, Caramel broke down crying again hard.  All the ponies took that as a bad sign.

“Yesterday was the annual buffalo stampede.  It has become a spectacle where all the town turns out to cheer them on.

Caramel, Fluttershy and I were watching from the side.  When suddenly a small bunny ran out in the road.  The buffalo were approaching fast.  You know Fluttershy, we tried to stop her but she flew off to save the bunny.  Just as she reached it, it took off in another direction.  Fluttershy tried to turn hard but she must have stalled.”

Braeburn paused, he was about to loose it.

“She hit the ground hard (sob), it must have stunned her (sob).....

She could not (sob) get out of the way (sob) in time.  It was too late (sob) for the buffalo to stop (sob).  It was quick (sob), I doubt she felt it.”  Braeburn could not hold back any longer.

“Noooooooo!” screamed Pinkie Dash.  Falling to her knees, tears pouring.

Rarity fainted, for real.

Bubbles took Twilight’s hoof, she could not tell who’s hoof was shaking worse, Twilight was deathly pale.

Rainbow was trying to calm Pinkie, but her own tears were pouring.

Applejack was crying while holding Rarity, trying to reviving her.

Apple Bloom held her cousin Braeburn while Cheerilee worked to comfort Caramel.

“We just sent her body to the Ponyville Undertaker.” Said Braeburn who could not keep it together and longer.

There were mass tears, everypony was trying to comfort everypony else.

The first of the six was gone.

A lot of ponies came to the memorial service from all over Equestria.  Fluttershy’s reputation for compassion and her fame as the wielder of the Element of Kindness was known far and wide.  Princess Celestia was there to officiate.  All of Fluttershy’s friends gave their best memories of the shy pony.

But to the surprise of many, the speaker who moved the ponies the most was Discord.  He related how if not for Fluttershy, he would still be stone and not know how important friendship was.  With tears, he swore before Celestia that he would dedicate himself to carry on the work of friendship and kindness that Fluttershy had taught him.

Then with his magic, Discord produced a statue to Fluttershy as a monument.

Sweetie Belle and Diamond Tiara told Twilight Sparkle after the memorial service for Fluttershy, that they were thinking of postponing the wedding.  They knew how they and the ponies around them had been affected by the loss of a beloved pony like Fluttershy.

“Listen girls,” said Twilight, “I can appreciate the gesture.  But I also know that Fluttershy would not want you to do that because of her.  She was probably the most loving and caring pony that has ever lived.  Love was important to her, and she would have wanted the two of you to have your love completed.

If you want to honor Fluttershy, then let loving each other be the most important thing in your lives.

But I do believe that will not be a problem.”

“Thank you, Mrs. Sparkle,” said Diamond, “we will.”

“I know you will, and my friends call me Twilight.” She said with a proud smile.

The evening before the wedding rehearsal, Pinkie threw the girls a bacheloret party.  There was a lot of difference between this and regular Pinkie Parties.  The guest list was all married and single mares who were close to the couple, including the brides’ mothers; Nouveau Rich and Pearl.  Also Applejack and Rarity Apple, Twilight and Bubbles Sparkle, Rainbow and Pinkie Dash, Bon-Bon and Lyra Heartstrings, Octavia (Pinkie’s sister) and Vinyl Scratch, she was a close friend of Pinkie and Octavia and she was to provide the music for the service.

Then there were; Silver Spoon, Dinky Sparkle, Scootaloo Dash and Apple Bloom Apple.  Being the brides maids, they had to make sure that the brides were having a good time.

They played games, some innocent and a some naughty.  But all-in-all, a good time was had by all.

Pinkie was going to have some hot dancing stallions there, but Rainbow reminded her that the brides were two females, although they were not mare-lovers, they probably would not be interested in seeing stallions strutting around.  Pinkie then thought about some dancing mares.  But again Rainbow had to point out that Nouveau and Pearl were interested only in stallions as were the younger girls so they would not be impressed.  Except for herself, Bon-Bon and Lyra, the others, although being married to mares, were not mare-lovers.  But Rainbow knew that Pinkie would have enjoyed either.

In fact, Lyra once asked Pinkie if she ever decided to come clean about truly being a mare-lover, Pinkie replied;

‘I am not a mare-lover, but I have sex all the time with a mare who is!’

That was a good enough answer for Lyra, and she never asked again.

During the party there were the gifts.

They opened matching boxes from Pinkie and Rainbow, in each was a gold spoon with a pink bow.  The girls just looked at Pinkie.

“Believe me, in a couple days you two are going to be alone without having to hold back any more.  And you are going to want to, as the saying goes, ‘eat each other with a spoon’,” the pink pony said with a smile.  “I just wanted to make sure that you were ready for that!”

All the married mares got a good laugh out to it, but the girls just looked lost.  They did not remember anything from any of the books.

But they understood later!

Bon-Bon had made chocolates that looked like anatomically correct marehoods on a stick.

“Hey!  Don’t you think they look just like me!” Lyra said, turning around and moving her tail to one side.  “I was the model!”

The younger girls did not know what to do.  But the rest of the adults, including the brides and their mothers got a chuckle out of it.

The candies were them passed out to all.  Then Bon-Bon told them she had a game for the brides;

“Okay, here is the rules, the one who get to the stick first, wins,” said Bon-Bon. “Obviously you can lick them or suck on them, but no biting!  That would not be nice!”

“See, I told you!” said Bubbles, loud enough to make Twilight blush.

The girls chuckled and started to put the confection to their mouth to comply with the instructions, then Bon-Bon spoke back up.

“Stop!  You can’t do it that way!  If you could, you would not need to get married!”

More laughs.

“I know this is all new to you but you have to put yours in front of your partners face, they have to eat yours!”  Said Bon-Bon with a wicked smile and gleam in her eyes.

This incited a lot of laughs, even from the more squeamish.  But the brides got the idea and they proceeded to make a show of it.  They both got to the stick at the same time.

“Good!” said Bon-Bon, “that is how it should work!’

All cheered and laughed.

Rarity and A.J. gave Diamond and Sweetie some very sexy and sheer negligees Rarity had made.  Rarity joked that she did not know why she even bothered to make them, she doubted that they would get worn anytime soon!

More blushes and laughs.

As the couple expected, Twilight and Bubbles gave them some books.  When they were unwrapped, they saw it was their own copies of the books Rarity had first shared with them four years ago.

There was also one that they had never seen before.  It was signed by the authors.  The title was ‘Understanding the Mysteries of Unicorn Horn Sex’ by Twilight and Bubbles Sparkle.  Twilight warned that they should get use to what was in the other books before they even attempted it.  And if they had any questions, see Princess Luna, she was always eager to talk of such things.

The rest of the gifts were nonsense and naughty items that brought a laugh to all.

The next day was the rehearsal, it was noticed that there were no ‘Best Mares’.  It was explained that they did not want to choose one friend over the other.  And so it was pointed out that Sweetie was Diamond’s Best Mare and vice-a-versa.

The other thing noticed was that Twilight was having trouble with speaking.  She said that she had a bit of a sore throat, but it would be okay.

The wedding party had a nice rehearsal dinner at Ponyville’s best restaurant, thanks to the Richs.  Most of the brides’ friends had never had such a fine dinner.  After dessert, the parents reminded everypony that they had a big day ahead and they needed to get some rest.

Chapter Two: Following Ritual

CHAPTER TWO

Following Ritual

In spite of neither pony being a ‘groom’, and that they would be wearing matching gowns, the couple announced that they would be spending their last single night alone at home.

The wedding was at Sweet Apple Acres, the large area next to the barn was decorated and cleaned for the occasion, as was the barn for the reception.  There were two pavilions at the back on either side for the brides to get ready.  The podium was centered on the great doors of the barn, Twilight Sparkle stood there ready.  There were rows  of seat cushions full of family and friends.  There was background music provided by Vinyl Scratch, she stood ready for a sign to start the wedding march.

In either pavilion, both brides thought they would burst.  Silver Spoon and Dinky Sparkle were keeping Diamond Tiara occupied, while Apple Bloom Apple and Scootaloo Dash kept Sweetie Belle from stressing out.  The brides’ fathers were there with them, it was a toss up if Magnum or Filthy had the most tears in their eyes.

As a signal that all was ready, the mothers’ of the brides were seated.  Silver Spoon escorted Nouveau Rich and Apple Bloom escorted Pearl to their seats.

The music started, Silver Spoon and Apple Bloom processed up the aisle, next came Dinky Sparkle and Scootaloo Dash.  When in place, Vinyl paused the music.  All looked back.  Magnum and Filthy walked out of the pavilions and met in the middle.  Filthy nodded to Vinyl.  The familiar sounds of the wedding march started.  Dawn Sparkle came walking down the aisle spreading rose petals as she went.  It had been impressed on the little filly not to snack too much on them!

Then Diamond Tiara and Sweetie Belle left the pavilion and met their fathers.  Both brides thought how beautiful the other was and how lucky that they were at this moment.  They processed to the front, each grinning so hard it almost hurt.

They stopped at the front, the fathers kissed their daughters and handed their hoof to the other.

All sat and the attention was turned to the front.

Twilight looked like she was trying to say something.  But nopony heard anything.  There was a distressed look on her face, whisperings were heard from the audience.   Twilight looked out and she beckoned for a pony.  Rainbow Dash came up, Twilight said something in the pegasus’ ear,  Rainbow nodded and turned to address the assembly.

“Regrettably, Twilight is not able to properly officiate, she asks your pardon. She says that she foresaw this and made arrangements.”

Both Twilight and Rainbow walked off to the side.  There were more murmurs from the crowd.   They turned to sounds of approval as out from the barn came Princess Luna, in full royal regalia.   Diamond and Sweetie were in (pleasant) shock.  All were quiet except for Dawn who said;

“Auntie Luna!”

Luna smiled and winked at the filly.

“My most dearly beloved subjects,” the princess started.  “I was approached by the Lady Twilight Sparkle and made aware of this beautiful couple.  They have stuck by each other for years now.  Through a very hard time and good ones as well.  There are none who can doubt their love for each other.

And through all this, they have maintained their purity as a pledge to each other and to their families to prove the high quality of their love.

They have waited for the proper time at the proper place.”

Luna paused and smiled greatly.

“I remind them now that I am the Princess of the Night, and my domain includes all the rituals of the night.  This includes the oldest and most important ritual of the night, that of love.

And so, as to give them my blessings for these rituals and for a happy life, I have the great honor to ask.”

Turning to Sweetie Belle;

“Do you, Sweetie Belle take Diamond Tiara Rich to be your wedded wife?  To have and to hold, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, to love and to cherish, until death do you part?”

“I do your highness!” said Sweetie, hardly able to contain herself! It was really happening!

Then  the princess turned to Diamond;

“Do you, Diamond Tiara Rich take Sweetie Belle to be your wedded wife?  To have and to hold, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, to love and to cherish, until death do you part?”

“I do,” said Diamond, still in awe of such an important pony performing her wedding.

“Then if there is nothing else”  said Luna.

“May we say something, your highness?” asked Diamond.

“Of course, my dear.” Said Luna.

Diamond and Sweetie turned and looked out on everypony.

“Sweetie and I wanted to ask you, our friends and family, to take a moment to remember a pony who can not be here.” Said Diamond, “it was pointed out that there was never a pony that love meant more to than Fluttershy Apple.  So we would like to ask for a moment of silence in her memory as we dedicate our love to that memory, forever.”

There was a silence that was only punctuated by a sniff or two from those moved to tears.  Diamond and Sweetie, noticed the smiles of approval from Fluttershy’s closest friends.

The couple turned back to Luna who smiled at the gesture and said low;

“Nicely done!”

Then the princess continued out loud;

“The rings please.”

Silver Spoon took out a unicorn ring, while Apple Bloom brought out a ring on a gold chain.  These were enveloped in Luna’s dark blue aura and lifted before her.

“These rings I place on you as a sign of your union and a sign of the blessings of the Princess of the Night.”

The rings vanished and reappeared on the proper bride.

“In the name of the Crown and of our august self, We declare you wed.  What We join together, let no pony sunder!

You may kiss the brides.”

Luna addressed the gathering;

“May I be the first to introduce Mrs. Diamond Tiara and Mrs. Sweetie Belle Rich!”

Diamond and Sweetie thought it was the greatest kiss that they ever gave/received.  They did not hear the music, they did not hear the cheering.  They only heard their hearts pounding.  They broke the kiss and smiled.  Before they turned to go back down the aisle, Princess Luna spoke to them and said with a wink;

“You not only have my permission, but may consider it now a Royal Command.

And if there are any other questions, or if you need help for this first time, just let me know.  I will be in Ponyville until morning!”

They all laughed as Sweetie and Diamond led the wedding party to the barn for the reception.

There was a table for the wedding party with Diamond and Sweetie in the center.  Ponies lined up to congratulate them, after the family came the parents and sisters of their friends.  They got the biggest surprise when it came Twilight Sparkle’s turn.

“Congratulation Mrs. and Mrs. Rich!” said Twilight in a normal voice.

“Twilight!  There is nothing wrong with your voice!” said Sweetie Belle.

Twilight smiled and said;

“What? you did not like my wedding present?  I thought you would not mind having the princess who married your sister and Applejack to do your ceremony.  Why let them have all the fun?”

Sweetie Belle and Diamond Tiara got up and hugged Twilight.

“Thank you so much,” said Diamond and Sweetie.

The party was the best Sweetie and Diamond had ever had.  They were the center of attention.  There were gifts to start their new life together.  There were gifts of art and gifts of more practical items.  The food was spectacular and the cake was to die for.

After a time came the ‘first dance’.  The center of the floor was cleared, Octavia brought out her cello and Lyra Heartstrings brought out her lyre.  They played a love ballad as Diamond and Sweetie took the floor.

Dances had become important to them,  Indirectly, it was a dance that brought their love to light.  There was nothing that either mare knew that felt better than holding the other close while they danced.  At least nothing that they had experienced yet.

Then came the tap on the shoulders, there were Magnum and Filthy to dance with their daughters.  Both brides were so happy, then something unexpected happened.  Their fathers stopped after a time and switched brides.  The two girls had spent so much time with either family, it only felt right.

Vinyl Scratch called out that all were welcome to join them.

Then they did something that was new tradition in Equestria, the families had let the guests know ahead of time that there would be a bit dance.  Each bride had a purse and if you wanted a dance with one of the brides, you would drop a bit or more into their purse.  This was just another type of wedding gift that covered any needs that they had not received.

Everypony was also surprised to see that Princess Luna had stayed and was mingling with all the ponies.  She had had a dance with both brides and even had paid for it.  She was seen talking to Dr. Time Turner Hooves, Bubbles’ brother, a lot.  Surprisingly they were also spending time with Lyra and Bon-Bon heartstrings.

As the party started to wind down, Princess Luna on a cue from the brides’ families called for everypony’s attention.  The families were slipping out to meet the brides at Carousel Boutique.

“My loving subjects,” she said in her Royal Canterlot Voice, then toned it down. “I am sure that you like We do, wish all the best to the brides.  But we are wearing on their time and We are sure that they have something better planned for this evening.”

There were a large amounts of laughs, Diamond and Sweetie blushed but smiled.

“And so,” continued the princess, “the Brides must now take their leave of us.  They will find Our personal cart waiting for them to conduct them to their new home.  We will be here among you, my beloved Ponyvillians for as long as you like.”

Every pony cheered.  The girls hugged and kissed their friends and extended family.  Even Princess Luna gave the two a hug and a kiss of blessing on the forehead.  The girls made their way to the doors.  There indeed was Princess Luna’s cart drawn by four bat winged pegasi.

“The bouquets!” called the ladies from the crowd.

Sweetie and Diamond turned their backs to the crowd, and threw the flowers over their shoulders as they left and climbed on the cart.  Single mares and fillies dove for them, but Diamond and Sweetie did not want to wait any longer to see who got them.

There were cheers of ‘Good Luck’ and ‘We Love You’ as they rode away.

The cart stopped at Carrousel Boutique.  There stood their families, everypony smiling like never before.

Rarity came forward to talk to them.

“As promised, the apartment above the boutique is yours.  Big Mac installed a locking door at the bottom of the stair to preserve your privacy.  Here are keys to the boutique and here are keys to your apartment.

You are now equal partners in all our family’s endeavors.  When you said ‘I do’ that officially ended you ever being considered fillies again.  You are adults, and we here hope that between the six of us, we have guided you properly, but the real credit is yours.  If your friends are half the responsible adults you are, they will do well.

You will be expected to pull your weight now.  That means working any schedule agreed upon. However, I think I can give Diamond a couple days off to get everything together, then I will see you at work bright and early in two days.  I have put a sign on the front door saying that all business for the boutique will be handled from my shop at the cottage.  Less chance of any accidental intrusions.”

“And here is the key to Rich’s Barnyard Bargains,” said Filthy to Sweetie, “If Rarity can give Diamond a couple days off, I guess I can give you the time off too!”

Everypony laughed.  Rarity, Applejack and the rest of the family hugged and kissed the two, then they unlocked the door, waved at the family and went inside.  They closed and locked the door.

They just stood there kissing for a moment.  It felt very familiar.  They went to the new door, went through and locked it, just to make sure.  They made their way up the stair, hoof in hoof.  At the top what they beheld brought a smile to their faces.  There in the bedroom was all their new furniture,  but the room had been decorated like this once before.  The air was scented with perfume,  there were candles, rose petals on the bed and a red rose on each pillow.  On the bed side table was a plate of chocolate-dipped strawberries, there were two champagne flutes and this time it was a bottle of champagne on ice.  By it was a simple note from Rarity;

I hope you make full use of my gift this time.

R.

“I think my sister is trying to tell us something,” said Sweetie Belle with a giggle.

“I think it is the same thing that Princess Luna was telling us,” said Diamond.

There was a look in Diamond’s eyes.  Sweetie understood the unspoken message.

“I guess with all the concern for us,” said Sweetie with the same look in her eyes, “we should not disappoint them.  What do you think, Mrs. Rich?”

“I would have to agree, Mrs. Rich,” said Diamond.

The new names and titles thrilled them.

Even with Sweetie’s magic, it felt as if they could not get the wedding dresses off fast enough.  They did take enough time to eat a couple strawberries and have some of the champagne.

Then they laid back on the bed and kissed the kisses of pure hunger.  Four plus years of restraint was gone, and the loss was so welcome.

Sweetie broke the kiss and looked into her wife’s blue eyes.

“I’m afraid,” said Sweetie, stroking Diamond’s violet and white mane.

There was a look of concern in Diamond’s eyes.

“Of what, my love?”  said Diamond, gazing in Sweetie’s green eyes.

“What if this is not what we thought?” said Sweetie, “what if we worked our selves up over nothing?”

“Have you been happy with me for the last four years,” asked Diamond.

“More than anything!” said Sweetie, “I could not live without you now.”

“Then if there is nothing to this except a lot of made up stories, we still have each other.” Said Diamond, suddenly Sweetie felt a hoof on her marehood, “but I truly think that it will not be a problem.”

Sweetie gasped at Diamond’s touch, she renewed the kiss with even more gusto.  Then with Diamond’s hoof stimulating her, Sweetie started to work the kiss down Diamond’s neck, enjoying every inch of her pink coat.

Maneuvering herself where she could still kiss her new wife yet allow Diamond to continue her contact as long as possible, Sweetie made it to the old stopping point of the navel.  She only dwelt there a moment before continuing on to ‘unexplored territory’.

Diamond’s nipples were there on her route down.  These Sweetie had felt and stroked them on many occasions but for fear of going too far, she had never been this close.  Lightly she licked them, noticing how erect they became.

Diamond let out a moan like Sweetie had never heard from her lover before.  Sweetie then, with all the determination of four years of chastity joyfully ended, continued on.  Diamond spread her legs to give Sweetie full access.

Diamond felt Sweetie move into position between her legs, then Sweetie’s forelegs slipped under Diamond’s flanks for support and to make access more comfortable.

There before her was the ‘promised land’.  The light pink of Diamond’s coat accentuated the slightly darker pink of her marehood.  Of course Sweetie had seen the outside of it many times, how could she not and live with, sleep with or shower with her darling love for the last year.  But never like this, never this close, and never under these conditions, where all restraint has been removed.

Now it was there in front of her muzzle, she could feel Diamond tremble with yearning for Sweetie to take the next step.

In reading the books and getting what information she could out of her sister, Sweetie had never even thought of the qualities of smell and taste.  Right now, it did not matter, Sweetie could see how wet her bride had become in anticipation.

Sweetie decided that this was not the time to over think this.

Diamond was feeling overcome with waves of pure desire born of hundreds of nights of holding back her craving for a pony who was the center of her universe.

A pony that when she remembered how she use to treat her and her friends, she felt unworthy of the love being poured out on her without condition or reserve.  How could she not return the same love to her?  Now that same pony had taken the steps to please her first.  She could not tell if the tears in her eyes were from joy or from the last remnant of shame for past treatment.

Without any other pause, Diamond used her fore hooves to spread her marehood for her lover.  It glistened with the wetness born of anticipation and arousal.  The very sight was making her own marehood wet.  Sweetie could feel the yearning that she was sure that Diamond was feeling right now and she was not about to disappoint.  Sweetie moved the last couple inches and plunged her tongue into Diamond.  The feeling made Diamond gasp  and her hips twitch.

Sweetie remember from the books what the proper technique for this was and where to concentrate her efforts.  But she also felt an innate yearning ‘down there’ on herself.  This was as much her guide.

But what the books did not say was the intense pleasure that she herself was now feeling.  The excitement of the most intimate part of her lover, so long denied to her now laid bare, willingly before her.  Begging to have done what Sweetie was now doing.

An act that five or so years ago would have been to her mind unthinkable or even dirty or disgusting.  But now love had changed everything.

When she was little, she dreamed of the perfect colt, who would carry her away just like in books Rarity use to read to her.  The thought of being in love with girls was ludicrous.  But now, Sweetie reasoned that she was not in love with girls.  The thought of being in this position with any other mare had no appeal.  At this point with her pleasing Diamond, she fully understood what Rarity had said about not being in love with a mare, but being in love with Applejack.

She was in no rush and took her time to explore with her tongue.  Sweetie felt the larger outer lips and the very sensitive inner ones.  It was warm, soft, smooth and wet.  Then she found the little nub called the clit.  As she started to suck and lick on this as the books described, but it was as if she already knew what to do.  Diamond’s hip movement became more pronounced.  After so long of holding back and not giving in to lust, the orgasm did not take long.

Diamond never thought it would feel like this.  There was no parallel to this, nothing from past experiences.  Even if she wanted it to stop, there was no way it could.  It was like a train that coursed through her.  She gave an unconscious, uncontrolled cry of ecstasy.

Diamond’s hips arched up and stayed.  Sweetie remembered to continue until Diamond relaxed and collapsed to the bed.

It was as if she had been under water almost too long, she could not get her breath at first.

Sweetie crawled up to by her wife’s head and saw that Diamond was crying.

“Oh no!  Did I hurt you my Dearest?” asked Sweetie.

Diamond’s blue eyes locked in Sweetie’s green eyes.

“No my love,” said Diamond the tears were slowing.  “It was worth the wait!”

Diamond kissed Sweetie sweetly,  then she gently rolled Sweetie to her back.  And then worked her way down the way Sweetie had with her.

As Diamond passed Sweetie’s navel, Sweetie started to understand the reaction she had just witnessed from her wife.  The feeling was incredible, she could not tell if it was the feeling of years of taboo being abandoned or if it was the true joy of being loved by this pony who she knew she could not live her life without.  That did not matter, she was now married to this incredibly brave and loving pony.  She was happy beyond measure that they were bound mind, spirit and now body.

Sweetie saw in her mind’s eye what Diamond was doing being that she had just done the same to her.

Diamond was enthralled with the previously unexplored parts of her lovers body just in front of her muzzle.  Sweetie’s white coat which reminded her of purity, a purity she was now working her best to remedy.  With the sight of her marehood before her, the pink against the white, Diamond was glad that with their pledge of the past that she had never been this close before.  If she had, she knew that she could not hold back.

And now there was no reason to hold back as Diamond plunged her tongue into Sweetie as far as it would reach.  She looked up the length of Sweetie’s body and saw her love’s face in total rapture.  This urged Diamond to do her best.  She found the act of doing this was so thrilling it was exciting herself even more, just as Sweetie had discovered.  She felt her own marehood, still tingling from the afterglow, becoming even more wet.

Diamond followed with what Sweetie had done to her, and like herself, Sweetie did not take long, such was the pent up frustration of years of control.

“D I A M O N D!” cried Sweetie, then she went limp.

Diamond now slid up the bed to kiss her wife.  The two could taste the other and themselves in the deep kisses they were sharing.  This aroused them even more.

After kissing for a while, they remembered another position they had read, one that Rarity had hinted at in the past.   Diamond turned around and got between Sweetie’s hind legs then she place one of her legs over one of Sweetie’s and one under her.  Then with looks of joy and desire on their faces they brought their marehoods together.  The feeling was warm, soft and wet.  As they touched, it was as if their hips knew what to do.  As they rubbed together the feeling was exquisite.  Both lovers looked at each other at the same time, they saw the joy in the face of the other that they themselves were feeling.

This time the orgasm took longer, but they were not in any hurry.  They came about the same time.  The feeling of climaxing together was so special.  When done, they just lay back panting, still touching.

After, they would kiss, then eat strawberries, drink champagne and make love again.  They also, still being young mares, did act a little silly.

Diamond rubbed some of the chocolate from a strawberry on Sweetie’s nipples then took her time licking them clean.

Sweetie levitated a glass of champagne above Diamond’s belly and let it trickle into her love’s navel where she greedily lapped it up.

After catching their breath, eating some more strawberries and another glass of champagne, they went at it again.  This time stimulating each other orally at the same time.  It was so exciting to please and be pleased at the same time.

The night continued like this until very, very late.  All in all the night was more than they ever expected.

It was well worth the wait!

Chapter Three: Flash Back to Dawn 3

CHAPTER THREE

Flash Back to Dawn 3

Just last year:

The bell at the front door rang, announcing that somepony had just entered.

“Muffin, is that you?” called Bubbles from the kitchen.

“Mom!” said Dinky, “I wish you would not call me that in front of my friends!  It is embarrassing.”

Bubbles walked into the front room.  There were Dinky, Scootaloo, Sweetie Bell, Apple Bloom, Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon.

“Sorry ‘Miss Grown Up Smarty-Pants’.” Said Bubbles, coming into the room. “If they are real friends, then they would not mind any family pet names and would not make fun of you.”

Bubbles looked around, and noticed that with the kids home from High School, that Dawn should have been home by now.

“Have any of you girls seen Dawn?” asked Bubbles.

“No mom,” said Dinky

The rest of the girls said that they had not seen her.  They all went upstairs to Dinky’s room.

“Twilight!” called Bubbles.  Twilight was in the kitchen, she came trotting in.

“Yes honey,” said Twilight, “anything wrong?”

“Have you seen Dawn?  She should be home from school by now.”

“No,” answered Twilight, “perhaps one of the princesses need the cart.  Do you want me to send a note to Canterlot?”

Before Bubbles could answer, the front door opened.  It was Lyra Heartstrings.

“Oh good, you both are here.” Said Lyra.

“Hello Lyra,” said Bubbles, “how are you?”

“I am doing great, thank you.  Bon-Bon asked me to come see if you could come to the candy shop,” said Lyra, “we think you should see this.”

Bubbles and Twilight just looked at each other with a concerned look.

“Muffin!” cried out Bubbles, “we will be right back!”

“MOM!” replied Dinky.

Twilight and Bubbles followed their friend the couple of blocks to Bon-Bon’s shop.  They noticed one of Princess Celestia’s carts parked outside.  The harnesses were empty.

Once inside the sight was amusing.  There at a table was Dawn with a very large dish of ice-cream in front of her.  At the table were two of the Palace Guard pegasi.  The Guards saw them enter and stood to attention.

“Lady Twilight!”  they acknowledged.

“What is going on?”  asked Twilight.

“Well, My Lady,” said one guard, “it is like this.”

Dawn interrupted;

“I said that they were too slow, so I bet them I could get to Ponyville before them.  They just laughed and said that they would bet a large dish of ice-cream that I could not.”

“We did not think she was serious, My Lady,” said the other Guard, “but she jumped out of the cart and took off.  We tried our best, but she outflew us.  She was here and ordered the ice-cream before we had landed.”

“Please don’t tell your brother, My Lady,” implored the first Guard.

“Don’t worry about that,” said Twilight, trying not to laugh, “why don’t you two go back to Canterlot.  I will deal with this.  Did you pay for the ice-cream?”

“No, My Lady,” said the Guard.

“Good, you are dismissed,’ said Twilight.

After the Guards had left.  Twilight and Bubbles sat at the table.

“So, young filly,” said Bubbles, “how are you going to pay for this?”

“I bet the Guards, they were going to pay,” said Dawn eating the ice-cream faster, sure that she was about to lose it.

“Bon-Bon!” called Twilight.

Bon-Bon came out from around the counter.

“Yes Twilight?’ said Bon-Bon.

“Do you have any particularly nasty chore that needs done?” asked Twilight.

“Well I have four tubs of cream that have gone bad.” Said the cream colored pony, “they need to be dumped, cleaned and sanitized before I can use them again.”

“Good,” said Twilight, “I will pay for the ice-cream, and Missy Dawn here will take care of your cream tubs.  Make sure that she does it correctly before you send her home.”

“And because Bon-Bon is an Earth Pony,” said Bubbles to the young alicorn, “you will have to clean them the Earth Pony way.  No magic!”

“Aunt Pinkie is an Earth Pony and she can use magic," said Dawn trying to use reason.

“No magic!” said Bubbles and Twilight together.

Bon-Bon smiled and appreciated the situation.

Twilight gave Bon-Bon the bits for the ice-cream, Dawn finished the ice-cream and then followed Bon-Bon to the back.

Later that evening, Dawn came home, accompanied by Bon-Bon and Lyra to make sure she got home okay.

“Thanks girls,” said Bubbles.  “We will see you at the ‘Old Mares Club’ meeting.”

“No problem!” said Bon-Bon, “I am looking forward to that.  But I was not looking forward to cleaning those tubs.”

The Heartstrings and the Sparkles laughed,  Dawn did not see the humor in this.

Lyra and Bon-Bon left the library still chuckling.

“Mommy!  What was that for?” said the filly, “okay, I probably should not have bet the Guard.  But what is wrong with me flying myself?”

“You are right, young filly,” said Bubbles. “You should not have bet the guard, and they should not have let you.  But you have not been flying very long.  There are colts and fillies who cannot fly until they are several years older than you.  Some think you are just showing off.  I would bet that some of your class mates do not know how to handle you, being an alicorn and all.  The kids you go to school with are talented and gifted ponies as well, but you being what you are gives you an advantage.  This can be taken wrong if it is not handled with tact and humility.”

“Tact and humility?” asked Dawn.

“Just think of aunt Rainbow,” said Twilight, “and don’t act like that.”

Dawn giggled at that.

“Plus you are not the awesome flyer you like to think you are, yet.” Said Bubbles, “do you know what your aunts Celestia and Luna would do to us if we let anything happen to you?  Do you know what would have happened to those Guards?”

“They would throw us in a dungeon! Or banish us! Or throw us in a dungeon in the place they banished us to!” Said Twilight, starting to get a tremor in her voice, thinking of the imagined shame.

“Honey,” said Bubbles, “lighten up, will you.”

“Dawn, it is not that we fear that something would happen to us if something happened to you,” said Bubbles, “but both of us, Twilight and myself, would die if anything happened to our baby.

As we have tried to explain in the past, you are a very special pony, the only alicorn born in Equestria since aunt Cadence.  You are truly the daughter of two mares.  That in itself is special, but what you truly are is the product of a very special love.  I like to say that Twilight and I love each other so much that it could not be contained in just two ponies, you are the extension of that love.  How could we not love you so deeply.”

“Don’t think that means that we don’t love your sisters.” Said Twilight, “we love Dinky and Sparkler greatly as well.  And if anything happened to them, we would be just as hurt.”

“I am sorry, mommies,” said Dawn, truly feeling sorry for upsetting her mothers.  “I will remember.”

Twilight and Bubbles hugged the little filly.

“Okay,” said Bubbles, “go upstairs and tell Muffin that dinner will be ready soon.”

“MOM!” called out Dinky, overhearing what name her mother just used.

Chapter Four: New Lives

CHAPTER FOUR

New Lives

Back in the present:

Sweetie Belle woke with the sun peeking in the window.  She felt Diamond in her forelegs, Diamond’s forelegs around her.  Diamond’s head was resting against her chest and her own her chin lightly resting against the top her new wife’s head.  She had awakened like this before in the past, but this time it was different.  Diamond was now her wife, they could not be separated by a whim of their parents.  They had shared a night of love, it was not some act of weakness, giving in to lust.  It was the first night of their married life, their love finally consummated.

Diamond stirred, looked up into Sweetie’s eyes.

“I did not dream it!” She said in joy. “We are truly together, forever!”

“Yes, my darling,” said Sweetie, kissing Diamond lightly.

They kissed for a bit longer, but hunger drove them from their blissfulness.

They got up and showered together, kissing more than cleaning.  Then went down to the kitchen.  There was a note on the table stating that they were expected at a little café just a block away for brunch.

“Rarity thinks of everything,” said Diamond with a smile.

“You don’t know the half of it,” replied Sweetie.

At the café noted, Sweetie’s parents as well as Diamond’s were there along with Rarity and Applejack.  There was also Twilight and Bubbles Sparkle, Bubbles brother Dr. Time Turner Hooves, Bon-Bon and Lyra Heartstrings, Rainbow and Pinkie Dash.  And most surprisingly, Princess Luna.

As the newlyweds approached, Rainbow flew over to met them, she took them aside and mentioned something she had told Twilight years ago when she discovered that Twilight had been first sleeping with Bubbles.  It was how mares who have been overly stimulated ‘down there’ hold their tails out more than normal.  So if they did not want the common pony to know the of the ‘wild night of rutting’ in Rainbow’s words, that they just experienced, then they should think about how they held their tails.

Rainbow and the girls got a good laugh out of it.

The families had already ordered for them and the whole company enjoyed the meal together.  Princess Luna was very relaxed and did not stand for any formality.  They found out later that Luna had covered the bill.

After eating, the princess had something interesting to say.

“I have enjoyed myself immensely, as always, here in Ponyville.  I may just set up a summer palace here (which she later did).  But more importantly, the ponies here have become my closest friends, though they may not have thought themselves so.  Especially my sister’s apprentice and her wife.”

Twilight and Bubbles blushed in humility to be thought so by a princess.

“Last night I celebrated the Rituals of the Night in honor of the newlyweds, thanks to the assistance of Lyra, Bon-Bon and Time Turner.”

There were blushes from the three ponies mentioned.

The rest of the brunch was happy and boisterous.  A lot of kidding of the newlyweds and of the three ponies who had spent the night with the princess.  Even the princess doled out and accepted kidding.  Nopony, including Luna, could even imagine Celestia being so forward or casual.  But such is the nature of The Princess of the Night.

The brunch finished, the princess took her leave of everypony and flew off in her cart and the greater part of the group left to start their day, but not before congratulating the newlyweds.  This left Rarity and Applejack, Sweetie and Diamond to talk among themselves.

“So,” started Rarity.  “I would be greatly surprised as well as annoyed if you did not make full use of my gift this time.”

“It was greatly appreciated,” said Diamond. “We were so happy to see it.”

“And before you ask,” continued Sweetie Belle, “it was worth the wait.”

Rarity and A.J. smiled.

“We are so happy for you two,” said A.J. “we have watched y’all for the last several years, we are so proud of the level of maturity you have shown.  You have acted responsible beyond your years.  Apple Bloom has often said that she hopes that when she has a pony to love in her life, that she hopes that she will be as happy as you two.  And to know that you two are happy is a joy to all your family.”

“We know that we were young when love came to us.” Said Sweetie Belle, “but we trusted in it and put the other ahead of our self.  I think it worked.”

“I would say so,” said Rarity, “you have to remember that now that you are married, that does not release you from having to be mature and responsible.  You have to be more, that does not mean that you cannot be young and have fun.  Just keep your priority’s.  But Applejack and I don’t think that that would be any issue.”

Apple Bloom woke up late, she had partied late after Sweetie and Diamond left the reception.  She was happy that she had no place that she had to go this morning.  She had been invited to the brunch for the newlyweds, but she had declined in favor of sleep.  On a farm, the ability to sleep late was a luxury.  Even when she was staying with her mothers at the cottage, she still had chores at the farm and it was expected for her to fulfill them.  Now that she was out of school, more was expected from her.

Zecora was also expecting more from her now that she did not have any homework, from the school that is.  Zecora made sure that Apple Bloom had plenty of reading to do.  There were books and scrolls from her collection and suggested books from the library.  Plus aside from the lessons that she was giving, she had made sure of certain lessons from Twilight Sparkle as well.

The hardest part of her lessons with Zecora were that she was being required to not only learn the language of magic and the native language of the zebra tribes, but that she was also being required to speak in verse when she was with her mentor.  She had learned from the start that the reason for that was that it required her to truly think about what she wanted to say and not just open her mouth without thinking.  It was getting really hard because half of her lessons were now in zebra and she was required to speak it in verse as well.

Apple Bloom almost thought it would be easier to be back in school.  There, if she messed up an assignment, it did not have the possibility of blowing out the windows.

It was not like she did not enjoy her studies with Zecora, she was learning some cool things, she was in competition with Dinky Sparkle and Sweetie Belle and surprisingly, Scootaloo Dash.  Learning the shaman magic gave her an edge because she could understand the organic part involved with magic.

Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon were the only friends that were not studying magic, Silver said she had enough to study to be a teacher and Diamond said that Sweetie Belle was magic enough for their household, but Sweetie would joke that Diamond happened to work another kind of magic when they were alone!

When Apple Bloom thought back on how much grief that Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon had given to the old Cutie Mark Crusaders, and then to think that not only were they best friends now, but that Diamond and Sweetie were deeply in love and married.  It was enough to make Apple Bloom believe that good things can truly happen.

Apple Bloom heard her mamas come in, it must be later than she thought, there was no way that the brunch was that short.

“Apple Bloom!” called A.J. from down stairs.  “We brought you some food, if you want to eat, scoot your boot!”

“Okay mama!” replied Apple Bloom just loud enough to be heard.

‘Mama’! Apple Bloom still marveled four years later at the fact that the pony she had thought for so long was her sister and best friend was in reality her mother, but still best friend.

She never held any resentment that she had been kept in the dark about this, she understood and for the most part agreed with the reasons.

It did not matter that she would probably never know who her father was, after all he was no more than an unwelcome and evil ‘sperm donor’.

What he really was, was a monster.  A monster that hurt an innocent little filly and left her in an orchard, violated, confused and pregnant to fend for herself.  Luckily her mother had the support of her granny and her brother to help her through.

Apple Bloom had put thought to what in life that made her.  She came to the conclusion that she was never the unexpected/unwanted child of a monster and a rape victim.  She was the proud daughter of a pony who’s honor, loyalty and honesty could never be questioned.  No, the fact that she did not know who her father was did not matter one bit.

In fact, she knew that if she ever met him, she would be tempted to use some of the darker things that Zecora was teaching on her.  Nopony hurts her family, especially her mother and lives comfortably afterwards.

Apple Bloom got up, washed her face and went down stairs and ate.  After thanking her moms for bringing her the food.  Apple Bloom went outside to do her deferred chores.  Outside she saw her mentor Zecora coming up the path.  Apple Bloom trotted joyfully to her teacher and gave the proper shaman greeting and ritual kisses on the cheeks.  Then the two exchanged genuine hugs.

                   “Apple Bloom my student, I am here to see;

If your mothers would kindly meet with me.” Asked Zecora, in zebra.

                  “They are inside, and I am sure you will see;

To meet with you, happy they will be.”  Replied Apple Bloom in zebra as well.

Apple Bloom led her teacher into the house and showed her to the front room and informed her that she would get Applejack and Rarity.

The two ponies were in the kitchen talking when Apple Bloom came in.

“Mama, Zecora is here asking to meet with the two of you,” informed Apple Bloom.

“We would be happy to meet with her Sugar Cube,” said Applejack.

“There is hot water on the stove,” said Rarity, “would you bring it and some tea in for her?”

“Sure thing mama.” Said Apple Bloom.

When Apple Bloom brought the tea in, she saw that the three were sitting around talking quietly.  Apple Bloom finished serving tea and started to sit.

“Apple Bloom, Darling,” said Rarity, “would you mind letting us talk.  Zecora is needing to talk to us alone about something.  Yes, it involves you but nothing to fret over.  So would you mind finishing your chores outside and we will call you when we are done.”

“Sure mama,” said Apple Bloom.

Apple Bloom then nodded in respect to her teacher and left the house.

It was several hours later when Applejack called Apple Bloom in for a late lunch.  When she came in, she noticed that Zecora had already left.  Lunch was on the table and for the most part everypony ate and spoke little.  Right now it was just Applejack, Rarity and Apple Bloom.  When they were done, Apple Bloom started to get up to go.

“Hold on Sugar Cube,” said A.J., “your mother and I need to talk to you.”

Apple Bloom sat back down and looked concerned.

“It is okay, Darling” said Rarity, “don’t worry.  As you know,  Zecora came by to talk to us.  She spent quite a bit of time singing your praises.  She said that you are a great student, you are learning everything she has been teaching you, and you are also learning everything Twilight Sparkle is teaching you as well.

According to her, we should be very proud of what you have accomplished.  And we are, Darling.”

“That was the only reason she visited?” asked Apple Bloom.

“No Sugar Cube,” said A.J., “she wanted us to know that for you to continue your studies, then there is something that you need to do.  It is something that has to be your decision alone.”

“What is that, mama?”

“Zecora says that for you to continue to learn, learn properly, you are going to have to move in with her to immerse yourself in your studies.” Said Rarity.

“We want you to know that we are so proud of you, how you have handled the changes over the last several years.  How you have taken to the studies that both Zecora and Twilight have given you.  We could think of nothing better to dedicate your life to than helping and healing others.”

“But what about you two and the farm,” said Apple Bloom, “I have chores, I have responsibilities!”

“Yes you do, Darling,” said Rarity, “but since Cousin Carmel moved back from Appleloosa, after the tragedy with Fluttershy, he has been enough help around here that he could cover for you.  For obvious reasons, he likes to stay busy.”

“Sugar Cube, we love you and we love having you with us.  If you feel your destiny is to work on the apple farm all your life, then we will support you.  But if you are truly meant for something else, something that your talents are causing you to excel in.  Then we are behind you as well.  Zecora said that the work will be hard and so the choice has to be one you freely make.”

“Will I not be able to see my family?” said Apple Bloom panicked.

“You will not be a prisoner,” said Rarity with a laugh, “it will be more like living at school.  And most advanced schools have you do that anyway.  But Zecora said it would not be easy at first.  She will have you speaking zebra all the time, and in verse.  Plus she will have chores for you, she said something about having to learn meditation and you will not be able to have very many personal items at first.”

“Sugar Cube,” said A.J., “we will stand behind you whatever you decide.  You have never done anything but make us proud.  And we don’t think you will ever do anything else.

Problem is, according to Zecora, she will need to get a decision from you by morning.  She said something about she could not teach you anything else without doing this.  So you go the next step, or your studies are over.  So she will be here early and you will have to give her an answer then.  You will leave with her or leave your studies.”

Apple Bloom looked shocked, she never imagined that her studies with Zecora would ever end, she did want to continue her studies.  She wanted to be the kind of pony that helped others.

But she loved her family also.  She had only found out that Applejack was really her mother just a little over four years ago.  It had been so nice to live as mother and daughter with her and Rarity.  But she also knew that growing up also means changes in your life.  Just look at Sweetie Bell and Diamond Tiara.

That alone made her smile.  To think that a pony that had made Sweetie’s life so miserable for so long was now married to, and madly in love with her.

If that was not a total change of lifestyle she could not think of what was.  Even when they were ‘playing house’ as Apple Bloom use to kid them while they were staying with Applejack, Rarity and herself, was not a true life change decision as getting married.  Apple Bloom thought about it some more.

It was exciting to think about learning some deeper mysteries of the shaman magic.  And she would be able to see her friends, and she doubted that Zecora would mistreat her.  Plus she was now an adult so she could walk away from anything at any time.

Since she had first started going over and hanging out with Zecora, she had wanted to learn from the zebra.  Now was her chance, Zecora was asking for her!

Apple Bloom did not need to think anymore.

It was early morning.  Apple Bloom was so excited and apprehensive that she could barely sleep.

Rarity and Applejack had got up extra early to make breakfast for Apple Bloom.  They were a little misty but proud that their daughter was going to be continuing her studies with Zecora and they wanted to see her off properly.  Zecora had told them that Apple Bloom could take some family photos and any one object to comfort her being away.  Like a teddy bear or favorite blanket.  These they had collected these the night before.

Now the three of them were eating an early breakfast, early for even a farm household.  Granny, Cousin Carmel, Big Mac and Cheerilee and their foal were still in bed.

“Well Sugar Cube,” said A.J., “you know that if you really don’t want to do this, you don’t have to.”

“I know mama,” said Apple Bloom, “but to tell the truth, I am kind of excited about this about as much as I am nervous.”

“We have no doubt that Zecora will treat you well,” said Rarity, “and your mother and I are so proud of you.  You have never disappointed us, we could not ask for a better daughter.  But I guess that you have to ‘leave the nest’ sometime.  Just remember that we will always be here for you.”

“Thanks mama,” said Apple Bloom.  “Ever since I found out that I have two mothers, I have tried to be a daughter that would be worthy of the love that you have given.”

“You have not disappointed.” Said A.J.

Then A.J. and Rarity got up and came over to Apple Bloom and gave her a big hug.  There were tears of pride in all their eyes.

Then came the knock at the door.

“She is here,” said A.J., “are you ready?”

“Yes mama,” answered Apple Bloom, “I guess I am.”

Rarity levitated Apple Bloom’s saddle bag to her.  The two mothers gave her a kiss, then she went to the door.  Opened it and there stood Zecora smiling.

Apple Bloom and Zecora greeted each other in zebra and gave formal kisses on the cheeks.

Then Zecora said in pony so the others could understand;

                  “Apple Bloom my student, I am here to see;

If you are ready to come with me.”

Then addressing Applejack and Rarity;

                  “Apple Bloom will be cared for, this I can tell;

Like a daughter she will be treated by me quite well.”

“We have no doubt of that,” said Applejack. “We look forward to hearing how she will be progressing.”

Zecora smiled and nodded, then she spoke to Apple Bloom one word in zebra.  Now that she was the accepted master, it was a command and not a request;

                  “Come.”

Zecora turned and started to walk away,  Apple Bloom quickly kissed her mothers again and trotted off after Zecora.

Applejack  just stood in the door, a tear rolled down her cheek.

“Darling,” asked Rarity, “are you alright?”

“For so long, I regrettably hid that she was my daughter,” said A.J. “I have loved the last four years, being able to be her mother.  Now she is going off to her new life.  I am so proud, but sad at the same time.”

“Honey,” said Rarity, “she will always be our daughter.”

Applejack turned and faced her wife.  She then gave a very passionate kiss.

“We have had an early breakfast.  We can start our chores early,” said Applejack.

“Or we can go back to our room, and I can remind you what your tongue is for,” said Rarity.

“Won’t you be late getting to your shop?” asked A.J. not really seriously.

“I have an employee now.  I am the boss, I make my own time.” Said Rarity with a large smile.

“She hasn’t started yet,” kidded A.J.

“It is the principle that counts!” laughed Rarity.

“Then why are we standing here talking?” asked A.J.

“By the way, Darling,” said Rarity, as they were walking toward the stair, “where did you put your lasso?”

“Ho! Doggies!” was A.J.’s only reply.

It was not very long after, Rarity’s four legs were tied (not very securely) to the bed posts, and she was wearing A.J.’s hat.  Applejack was down between her hind legs, her marehood spread by A.J.’s hoofs.  Applejack always marveled how the pink of the inside of her marehood stood out against the white of her coat.  Her clit was there erect from the stimulation of A.J.’s tongue.  By the pumping of her hips, A.J. could tell that Rarity was close.  In fact, Rarity turned her head, buried her face in the pillow and let out a scream.

When she could tell that the orgasm had passed, A.J. moved up to kiss her wife.

“That was awesome as always my love,” said Rarity, breathing heavily.  “I sure have trained you well.”

“My pleasure,” was A.J.’s reply between kisses.

“Okay, Darling,” said Rarity, “we need to get going, untie me please.”

“No can do, Sugar Cube,” said A.J. with a devious smile.

Rarity looked confused, until she saw A.J. move up, then she squatted down with her knees on either side of Rarity’s head.  She then lowered herself with her marehood just at Rarity’s muzzle.

“I think it is your turn,” said A.J. grasping the headboard.

A.J. lowered herself just the little remaining space, while Rarity ravenously worked her tongue in her wife’s marehood.  Suddenly she playfully nipped at the sensitive inner lips.

“Hey!” exclaimed A.J., “do I need to get the spurs?”

Rarity just giggled;

“Ride ‘em cowpony!”

Chapter Five: Echoes Of The Future

CHAPTER FIVE

Echoes Of The Future

The previous morning Pinkie, Bubbles, Rainbow and Twilight brunched with the newlyweds.  The arousal due to the talk of the previous night’s activities especially with Luna and her escapades had precipitated an unplanned overnight get-together by the four friends/lovers bound by love and their transcendence of life and death in that they experienced during their effort to save Pinkie in the underworld.  It was taking less and less for them to find an excuse for the four to share their love.  It was also getting hard to keep it under wraps.

The group was warm and snug in Rainbow and Pinkie’s oversized cloud bed.  All were in blissful sleep.  All but Twilight, she was waking up for no apparent reason.

It was early as Twilight stirred, she could sense that it was well after midnight.  She could feel the ponies in bed with her, but she was most aware of the especially strong forelegs holding her.  The muscular chest she was up against.  Also present and keeping her extra warm was the wing that was draped over her.  She could smell the arousing sent of mare without perfume or cologne, and the warmth of the feminine but incredibly strong body.

She had never felt so safe and protected as this since the last time she was a filly and her daddy held her to protect her from what ever boogie-pony was hiding under her bed.

She knew she was being held by the private Rainbow Dash that only three ponies knew.  She was the strong and self-assured pony that every other pony knew, but she was also incredibly tender, gentle and loving, a face that was hidden from the rest of the world.  Pinkie even admitted that this side of Rainbow Dash had only come out after their journey into the underworld.

It was indeed Twilight that had wrought this transformation, so Twilight felt that made this side of Rainbow, ‘Her Rainbow Dash’.  She had to be careful with thinking that way.  It was a relationship that they all were bound equally to each other, to become overly possessive would turn it into something less wholesome and fulfilling.  After all, she was shared with Pinkie and Bubbles as well.

During the incident in the underworld, there were revelations of feelings which were brought out to and had to be dealt with.  They became in touch with feelings from the future, due to time they has spent in the underworld to save Pinkie, this was truly a situation of genuine love. Princess Luna had explained that this relationship was not some perverted orgy.  She had explained that it was as if the four of them were now married.

And the four delight in this.

Bubbles and Pinkie understood this especially about Rainbow and Twilight.  And they had found that by having these occasional nights together, there were no possibilities of their wives feeling forced to hide their feelings, or to have an illicit relationship, or suffer because they were not able to express themselves.

And to tell the truth, Bubbles and Pinkie enjoyed it as well.

Now about twice a month they would meet for a nice dinner, either at one of their homes or at a restaurant.  And then they would go to the Dash’s cloud home for the night.  But like tonight, there were special circumstances that would precipitate an unplanned get together.  Rainbow was always able to get Scootaloo to go spend the night with one of her friends.  They suspected that Scoot knew what was going on, but she had the good taste and respect not to say anything.

Rainbow felt Twilight stirring, she so much loved holding Twilight on these nights.  There was just something so special about the purple unicorn.  It was not that she did not like holding Pinkie or even Bubbles.  But there was an honest innocence that Twilight had retained through everything she had been through.

This did not decrease the pleasure when holding Bubbles or Pinkie.  Each pony was different and Rainbow did appreciated the differences.

“Is there something wrong, lover-pony?” asked Rainbow, giving Twilight a little kiss.  For some reason, Rainbow did not feel sappy at all with pet names for Twilight.  Perhaps it was because Twilight was so much more ‘girly’ than her other companions, both Pinkie and Bubbles were mature mares, even with Pinkie’s sense of humor.  Twilight was mature but she reminded Rainbow of an insecure filly in an awesome mare’s body.  She was an extremely powerful mare but she hid the awesome magic power that she commanded with humility, modesty and most of all, love.

“I would have thought that I had worn you out tonight, Luna knows I sure tried.”

“I don’t know,” said Twilight, she snuggled up a little closer to Rainbow.  “Just an uneasy feeling.”

“I know how to fix your uneasy feelings,” said Rainbow.

Rainbow kissed Twilight the kind of kisses that Rainbow wished she that could give her all the time and not just at these get-togethers.  Twilight wished the same and returned the kisses in kind, Twilight pulled Rainbow so close it felt that she was trying to share the same space with her.

Rainbow’s soul burned for Twilight, even though she was still deeply in love with Pinkie, and knew that Twilight loved Bubbles as much.

Making love to Twilight was so different than making love to Pinkie or Bubbles.  Pinkie was wild, fun loving and even silly, but in a pleasing way.  Bubbles was passionate and had a large repertoire of how to please, a true artist at love making.  But Twilight was intense, precise and willing to give and give and give without thought of anything in return.  It was not that Twilight did not want anything from her, in fact she craved Rainbow as much or more than Rainbow craved her.  But the way that she ‘received’ made Rainbow want to perform even better.

Another thing that aroused Rainbow was that she, Pinkie and Bubbles had had sex with stallions previously.  But the knowledge that Twilight had never been with a stallion, and had only been with Bubbles, Pinkie and herself, excited Rainbow even more.  Even when offered to use toys that duplicated the experience of a stallion’s ‘thing’, Twilight flatly refused on the grounds that despite not being a mare-lover, she loved three mares and that was satisfying enough.  It was all the sex she knew and it was all the sex she ever wanted.  Plus with the shared memories that she was given at Dawn’s birth, she could remember the feeling of sex with a stallion, through Bubbles, and she was not impressed.  This fact made the three mares that loved Twilight perform even more to make sure that Twilight was never tempted to do anything else.

It was kind of a silly notion, but to Rainbow, it made Twilight feel somehow ‘pure’.

It was so crazy for Rainbow.  There was a time not too long ago when Rainbow would not admit to loving anypony.  Then came the accident that Pinkie was almost killed.  She had her feelings forced to the surface.  Love became more important than appearing cool.

Then the events of the underworld where she and Twilight traveled to save Pinkie from Shooting Star taking over her body.  He had caused Rainbow and Twilight to experience feelings that they would not have until the future, after Pinkie and Bubbles were gone.  Shooting Star had facilitated this to distract them, but it backfired.  Being that he was not the true Shooting Star, he had forgotten about what love could do.  The feelings of genuine love, linked with the release of repressed desire for each other made them stronger, they were willing to sacrifice themselves for ponies they loved.  Now loving Twilight and Bubbles was as important as loving Pinkie.

And she had to admit to herself that Twilight was quite the kisser and an even better lover.

They broke the kiss, Twilight held Rainbow tightly, Rainbow felt tears on her coat.  Then Twilight let go of her and then Twilight got out of the bed and rushed out of the room.  As it happened, both Bubbles and Pinkie were cuddled together, it appeared that they had not been disturbed by their kiss or Twilight getting out of bed.

Rainbow got carefully out of bed, doing her best not to disturb the sleeping ponies.  She went to the living area and there was Twilight sitting on a sofa, it appeared that she was crying.  Rainbow sat beside her and took her hoof.

“Twi, my love, what’s wrong?” asked Rainbow in a voice so tender it almost was out of character with the brash pegasus.

Twilight looked at Rainbow.  There were indeed tears flowing down her cheeks.

“Hold me Rainbow.” Said Twilight.

Rainbow took her forelegs and put them around Twilight and pulled her close.

“No Rainbow,” said Twilight, there was something urgent in her eyes, “please hold me.”

Rainbow realized what it was that she was asking.  Rainbow understood because of Twilight being married to a pegasus.  Rainbow, without letting go, put her wings around Twilight as well.

“I love you so much Rainbow,” said Twilight, kissing the blue pegasus deeply, “I probably have since we first met, I just never let myself feel it.  But you know this, since our revelation, it is so hard to go through the days as if this does not exist.  I know that if we were public with this it would be harder for ponies to accept that with us being married to mares.

I also love Pinkie.  And I am still insanely in love with Bubbles.  And to be honest, if something happened to this arrangement and Bubbles said that we could not be together until she was gone, I would do as she asked, but know that my soul would suffer every day we could not be together.  At night I still remember the feelings I had when we went after Pinkie.  I can feel the feelings of the time to come.  The intense way we will love each other then.

But then I think about the reason why we will be together.  Bubbles and Pinkie will be gone.  And the thought of Pinkie and Bubbles being gone and the thought that one day you will be gone as well just kills me!  I never truly let myself love any pony until Bubbles came to me.  And just like when I learned about friendship, now I can’t live without the love I get and give to the ponies that are so close to my heart.  I think I will go crazy trying to figure this out.  I love all of you so, so much!”

Twilight started to sob hard.

“Twi, honey,” said Rainbow holding Twilight tighter, her own heart starting to break. “I feel the same as you do, and I would respect Pink’s wishes if she said we could not be together, but I doubt that she ever would.  And as far as the future, I try not to think about it.  If it is to come, there is nothing we can do about it.

You are feeling this way because of Fluttershy, aren’t you?”

The naming of their gone friend caused Twilight to cry harder.

“What wrong with Twilight?” asked Bubbles coming into the room.

Bubbles sat on the other side of twilight and put her wings around Twilight as well.

“She has been thinking about the future.  About how you and Pink will be gone.” Said Rainbow,  there were tears starting to form in her eyes.  “The passing of Fluttershy has hit her hard and made her think about losing you two.”

“I know it is stupid of me to say, but I don’t want anything to ever happen to any of you!” said Twilight crying hard.

“Twi,” said Pinkie coming in the room, “You can’t hope nothing ever happens to us.  If it did, then nothing would happen to us.  Do you know how boring that would be?”

Twilight looked up at Pinkie, trying to understand if that actually made sense.  But it did make her stop crying.

“Twilight,” said Bubbles, “we all love you just as much, even Ms. I Got To Be Cool About All This.”

“Hey!” said Rainbow, “I love Twilight, and I am not ashamed to say so.  I love Pinkie and you as well, Ms. I Had A Foal By Twilight And You Haven’t!”

Both Bubbles and Rainbow gave each other a quick kiss and laughed despite the situation.

“And instead of worrying about what is to come,” said Bubbles giving Twilight a kiss as well, “enjoy the time we have together now.  After all, we will all have to go sometime.”

Twilight started to stand, the two pegasi retracted their wings and let Twilight get up.  She walked off just a little, looking at the floor.

There was an uneasy silence from Twilight,  the others could feel it.

“Not all of us,” said Twilight quietly.

“What do you mean?” asked Pinkie.

Twilight turned back to her lovers, she was looking strange and swallowed hard.

“This cannot go beyond the four of us, and I am really not supposed to talk about this to even you.  But unless there is an unfortunate accident.....

I am not going to grow old and die.”

Twilight’s three companions all looked shocked.

“Are you saying you are immortal?” asked Bubbles.

“No,” said Twilight….

“Not yet.”

“Not yet?” asked Rainbow, Bubbles and Pinkie at the same time.

“Being Celestia’s apprentice is not just a title for a professional student.  I will take her place one day.  I will be as immortal as she.

I am only now starting to understand what I will have to give up because of this.  I will lose everypony I love,  every family member, every friend, all ponies that are important to me.

Except Dawn, she is Luna’s apprentice.”

“You will rule all Equestria?  That is so cool!  I have sex with the future ruler of Equestria!” said Pinkie, “do I get a tax break for that?”

The other three ponies just looked at Pinkie.  In spite of the situation, they all laughed.

“Our baby, will be immortal too?” said Bubbles sounding almost hopeful.

“No,” said Twilight, “her being an alicorn, means that she already is.”

The group sat around thinking about what Twilight had revealed.

“I have been afraid that my friends and even you my darling, would treat me different if it got out.  But with what happened with Pinkie, and with Fluttershy’s passing, it has been put right in my face.”  Said Twilight, “this relationship we now have is something so very special to me.  It is more than I ever dreamed of, so much love given and received.  And it isn’t just the sex, although the sex is fantastic, it is about my being with and loving deeply ponies that mean everything to me.

Not that Applejack and Rarity aren’t important, they are.  But we share something that has transcended life and death.

And now the only hope for me is to believe that there is something beyond that portal in the underworld other than limbo.  To live an immortal life without the possibility of love is no life at all.”

Rainbow, Bubbles and Pinkie all hugged Twilight.

“We are not gone yet, and you have yet to show Pinkie or especially me, Unicorn Horn Sex!” said Rainbow with a smile.

“Hey that’s mine!” said Bubbles in a whiny voice.

“Sorry babe,” said Rainbow with a wicked grin.  “I have seen how freaky you have been getting with Pink and I have not said one word.  So you just have to quit being so stingy, Twilight is all of ours now.”

“Do I have a say in this?” asked Twilight, actually starting to feel better.

“And what makes you think I will share?” asked Bubbles with a large smile, ignoring Twilight’s comments.

Rainbow looked at Pinkie and Twilight and smiled.  Then Rainbow grabbed Bubbles, kissed her intensely and lay her back on the soft floor.

“If you think that having awesome sex with me will change my mind,” said Bubbles, but at that moment, Rainbow plunged her tongue deep into Bubbles marehood, “then you are probably right!”

Bubbles started to moan, she held Rainbow’s head right at the right place.  Rainbow was working it good.

Pinkie took Twilight’s hoof.  And starting to walk her back to the bedroom.

“Come on Twi,” said Pinkie with a smile. “let Pinkie put a smile back on your face.  I bet I can kiss your bellybutton………

from the inside!”

Chapter Six: The ‘Old Mare’s Club’

CHAPTER SIX

The ‘Old Mare’s Club’

It was the first day at work for Diamond and Sweetie since the wedding.  Most of the customers at Rich’s Barnyard Bargains and at Carousel Boutique knew of the newlywed pony working there, most had been to the wedding.  There were a great deal of congratulations and other well wishes.  It was an unintended boon for the two shops because it brought in customers that may have not gone there that day.

At closing time, Sweetie Belle said goodbye to her father-in-law who had praised her professionalism at the job today, the hug received felt so much better when reflected on how he had acted only a little over fours ago.  Sweetie walked back to Carousel Boutique and home.  It was a good day.  Filthy reiterated that she was now a full partner in the business.  It did feel funny to no longer just be a daughter helping out, but a real owner in the business.

As she got to the Boutique, she saw Rarity leaving.

“Hello sis,” said Sweetie Belle.

“Well hello, Mrs. Rich!” said Rarity with a giggle.  “How was your first real day at work?”

“I enjoyed it.  It really was not too different.  But it is nice that I am actually a part of the family, in the family business.”

“I understand, I think your bride felt the same way today.  I have never seen her take so much pride in her sewing.” Said Rarity with a smile.  “By the way, the two of you have an invitation for tonight.  I left it on the kitchen table.  It is not mandatory, but we would really like to see you two there.”

Rarity then said her goodbyes and trotted off toward Sweet Apple Acres.

Sweetie Belle came in and saw Diamond at the sewing machine.

“Honey! I’m home!” said Sweetie Belle, then with a laugh, “I have always wanted to say that.”

Diamond trotted over to her and gave her a big kiss.

“After the last two days,” said Diamond, “it was so hard to be apart!”

“I know,” said Sweetie Belle, “but it was kind of fun to work today.  By the way, dad said to tell you hello.”

“He is so sweet,” said Diamond, “that is ever since he decided to be a loving father and not some jerk.”

The two laughed.

“I saw Rarity as I was coming in, she said something about an invitation,” said Sweetie Belle, “what do you know about it?”

“I don’t know,’ said Diamond, “she said to wait to open it until you got home.”

They kissed again and walked into the kitchen.  There on the table was a pink envelope.  Addressed:

To: Mrs. And Mrs. Rich, From: OMC,

                              When opened, it read:

Greetings Mrs. And Mrs. Rich

You are cordially invited to dinner at the Bon-Bon Candy Shop this evening at 6:30 pm.

We hope you will honor us with your presence and consider membership in our little club.

Until then we remain,

Sincerely Yours,

The Old Mares Club

“The Old Mares Club?” said Diamond and Sweetie at the same time.

“I guess it can’t hurt to check it out.” Said Sweetie, “at least we don’t have to cook tonight.”

“Dinner at the candy shop?” said Diamond, “that would have been a dream come true when I was a little filly.”

The two laughed.

“Well that leaves us an hour, I wonder what we could do in the mean time?” said Diamond with a sly sideward glance at the stairs.

It took less than a minute for them to get up the stairs and into each other’s marehood.

It was 6:25 and Diamond and Sweetie were standing outside of Bon-Bon’s sweet shop.  There was a closed sign on the door, but there were lights in the window and voices coming from inside.

They opened the door and went in.

There were Twilight and Bubbles Sparkle, Applejack and Rarity Apple, Rainbow and Pinkie Dash and Bon-Bon and Lyra Heartstrings.

“There’s our girls,” said Rarity.

“Hey ladies! Look at their tails,” said Rainbow kidding, “they don’t waste any time!  Horny little mares, don’t you think?  Pay up Bubbles!”

Bubbles rolled her eyes and put two bits in front of Rainbow.

“I bet Bubbles that they could not go one hour without getting frisky!” laughed Rainbow.

All, including Bubbles, Diamond and Sweetie, got a good laugh.

“Come in and have a seat,” said Bon-Bon, “we are about to eat.”

“So what is…..” started, Diamond.

“Sorry sweetheart,” interrupted  Bon-Bon, “eat first, business later.”

Bon-Bon and Lyra motioned to two cushions at the table with the rest of the mares.  The girls had a seat and the Heartstrings went to the back of the shop and brought out individual bowls, eating implements, wine glasses, a large bowl of salad, some fruit and several bottles of wine.

They ate, made small talk asking the girls about their first day back to work.  There was quite a lot of kidding, with and about, everypony, mostly sexual innuendo.  And a lot of wine and a lot of laughter.

Finally they finished the salad.  The heartstrings cleared away the bowls and brought out dishes of candy and more wine.

“I guess you want to know what’s going on,” said Bon-Bon,  pouring generous portions of wine to everypony, “our little club started several years ago, right after Twilight, Bubbles, Applejack and Rarity got married.  At first there were not a lot of issues but there were enough ponies not accepting mares marring mares, as Lyra and I found out soon after our wedding.

So we created this little group as to give moral and other support to married mare couples.

Rainbow and Pinkie joined not long after their marriage and now we would like to extend the same invitation to our newest married mare couple.”

“Most of the issues with public acceptance has disappeared.” Continued Lyra, “but we still get together because of our common interest.

And it does not matter if you are a admitted mare-lover, a mare who loves a mare or like Pinkie a mare who loves a mare-lover.”

Pinkie giggled.

“What it come down to, Darlings,” said Rarity, “is that there are just enough differences with our life styles as opposed to the common pony to warrant a group to help each other with the little nuances.”

“You remember the issues you had with Diamond’s dad at first.” Said Twilight, “those attitudes still exist, if not mostly underground.”

“And as with Filthy Rich,” said Bubbles, “sometimes all it takes to change a pony's heart and mind is putting what they think in a proper perspective.”

“But most of all,” said Rainbow, “we meet, eat, laugh and just have an excuse to gossip, drink wine and have a good time.”

“The only expectation is to be available to any pony having an issue and needing somepony to talk to,” said Applejack, “and host a meeting when it is your turn, and we meet once a month.”

Diamond looked at Sweetie, they both smiled.  Diamond nodded to Sweetie.

“Diamond and I would love to join your group.” Said Sweetie, then kidding, “if you think we qualify.”

“I don’t know,” said Lyra, looking at Bon-Bon. “I remember at the bachelorette party, they had trouble with your chocolate marehood eating game!  What do you think, baby?”

“I am not sure,” said Bon-Bon, the other mares trying not to giggle, “I bet they can’t even kiss a mare properly.  They probably think it is some kind of a game!  We heard that they started with Spin the Bottle, they probably think that they are still playing at it.”

Diamond just looked at Sweetie Belle.  Then they grabbed each other, and started kissing as passionately as they could.  They would back off the kiss enough to show some serious ‘tongue action’.  After several minutes, they broke the kiss, breathing heavy and holding each other.  Sweetie then looked at Lyra and Bon-Bon.

“Good enough?  We may be new to this married stuff but we have been perfecting our kissing for years now.”

“Or do we have to show you how sex between two mares is really done?” asked Diamond.

A cheer broke out among the mares they stood up and gathered around their new members.

“We were testing your sense of humor.  You passed with flying colors.” Said Bon-Bon laughing.   “This is a serious support club, but we also have fun!”

Sweetie and Diamond joined in the laughter.  Then Sweetie asked;

“By the way, why ‘Old Mares Club’?”

“You have heard the expression that something is just an Old Mares Tale?’  said Pinkie with a grin, “well, we all love a good Mare’s Tail”

“Stories?” asked Diamond.

“No,” said Pinkie, “t-a-i-l.”

Then Pinkie, as obvious as possible, put her hoof under Rainbow’s tail and ‘goosed’ her marehood.

“Hey!” said Rainbow, with a smile, “don’t do that unless you are going to do something about it!”

“I have every intention, my love!” said Pinkie. and then she kissed Rainbow deeply.

All laughed and the evening went on with a lot of wine and laughter.

Chapter Seven: Echoes Of The Past And Present

CHAPTER SEVEN

Echoes Of The Past And Present

It was several months later and life in Ponyville went on like normal.

Apple Bloom continued her immersion studies with Zecora, who was greatly impressed with the level of her mastery.

Scootaloo worked hard to impress her hero turned mother at mastering the weather.  And she proved to be an excellent flyer which gave her mother no end of pride.  She was also showing promise with the magic that her other mother and Twilight were teaching her.

Silver Spoon was a joy to her students whenever she would student-teach.  She was loving to her students, patient and giving.  Students could not wait to go to class when Silver was doing her student-teaching.  She was also there for all her friends.  She was the touchstone that kept the little group linked with them all going about in different directions with their lives.  Silver Spoon made sure that all their friends stayed in touch.

Dinky continued to handle the library efficiently enough to free up Twilight to do more advanced studies and research.  Also her mastery of magic impressed her mother to the point that she wished that Dinky would have been identified earlier so to go to Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns.  But Celestia was still satisfied with Twilight’s tutelage and would reassure her that the extra schooling was not necessary.

Sweetie Bell and Diamond Tiara continued to be an inspiration to all their friends and all ponies that knew them.  They worked hard at their jobs.  And while out in public, it was obvious how deep their relationship was and how great their love was.

Then there was Dawn.

She was not yet ten years old and she was as tall as her eighteen year old sister Dinky.  Her horn was noticeably longer, her wings were larger than that of the normal pegasi of Dinky’s age as well.  It was obvious that because of her being an alicorn her body form and growth was slightly different than the normal Unicorn/Pegasus/Earth Pony.

As to her magic abilities, her training at Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns, was more for control of her growing talents although she was being taught advanced skills.

Her flying abilities were impressive as well.

However, she did have a mischievous streak.  Twilight had blamed this on Bubbles who could be quite the imp, once while Rainbow was giving some advanced flying lessons to Scootaloo, Dawn streaked by and performed a sonic rainboom which nearly knocked the two pegasi out of the sky.

She had thought it extremely funny to have Rainbow and Scootaloo Dash chase her, but not quite catch her.  She would land and the Dash’s would tackle her and tickle her unmercifully.

They were a little jealous of her abilities but they also loved her greatly being that she was the child of their very good friends (and Rainbow’s secret lovers) Twilight and Bubbles.  Rainbow had taken time at an early age to help train her flying abilities, but Bubbles was training her as well, Rainbow had discovered at an earlier time that Bubbles was an amazing flyer herself.

Apple Bloom was getting use to the regimented day.  Chores in the morning and evening, meals, meditation (which she found to be more enjoyable than she first thought) and lessons, practice and reading throughout the day.  She also assisted her mistress when anypony visited for cures, healing or just to pick up some herbal tea blend.

Zecora was just as gentle and patient as before.  However she was slightly more demanding of Apple Bloom but only because she knew that she could deliver more.

She was getting comfortable with the routine.  Nothing out of the norm happened until one morning.

Apple Bloom sat up straight on her cot, a scream escaped from her mouth.  No slow awakening from the sound sleep from honest hard work.  This was an awakening from a dream so real it was hard to believe that it was a dream.

She saw her mother as a little filly.  She was being abused by a stallion.  Defenseless, threatened and scared beyond anything she had ever felt.  As the stallion forced her to her knees, Apple Bloom’s perspective changed, she was now in her mother’s body.  She felt the pain from the blows that the monster had inflicted.  Then came the penetration from the monster’s ‘thing’.  It was the pain of a virgin’s violation in a marehood too small for sex as of yet.  She whimpered, afraid to cry out because of the threat of death.  Although death might have been preferable to the pain and shame she was feeling now.

Then the perspective changed again, the stallion was the same but looked older, the pony changed as well.  It was her friend Diamond Tiara, she was being slapped around by the stallion too large for her to adequately defend herself against.  Diamond spun around and with her hind legs delivered a kick to the monster’s face.  It only stunned the stallion for a moment.  Diamond tried to run away but the brute was too fast.  He leapt to Diamond’s back, she fell flat on the stomach.  The monster then took both of his front hooves and hit her at the base of the scull.  There was a sickening snap!  Diamond went limp, the light in her eyes went out.  Apple Bloom could tell that she was dead.  The monster only laughed and proceeded to rape her dead friend.

“No!” screamed Apple Bloom, the stallion turned and looked at her and smiled.  It was the first time she had got a look at his face, but the face she saw was shocked her, it looked strangely like her face.

Apple Bloom’s tears were pouring and she was suddenly awake.

Zecora appeared in the doorway of the anteroom that Apple Bloom was using as her living space at Zecora’s hut.  Zecora saw Apple Bloom sitting up on the cot, there was the look of pure fear on her face.

“Apple Bloom my student, I am right here;

It was only a dream, there is nothing to fear.”

Apple Bloom looked like she was trying hard to figure what to say and how to say it.  Zecora was impressed that even with the stress of the situation, Apple Bloom was trying to meet the expectations she had placed on her.  Zecora walked over to her student, sat beside her and gently stroked her mane.

“It is alright to speak plainly this time.” Said Zecora, reassuringly.

“Zecora, it was horrible!  I saw the monster that raped my mother when she was little.  I felt it and experienced the whole thing, the pain, the shame, the fear!  Then everything changed, I saw the same stallion, older.  He was attacking Diamond Tiara.” Said Apple Bloom starting to cry harder.

“She tried to fight back.  But, but, but…….. HE KILLED HER!  Then he raped her anyway and just laughed.  He laughed just like he did when he raped my mother!  I could only think of how devastated Sweetie Belle was going to be!  He turned to look at me but it was my face I saw!”

Apple Bloom grabbed Zecora and buried her face in her chest and cried uncontrollably.  Zecora held Apple Bloom close.  She started to chant a comforting song, the words were only half recognizable to Apple Bloom.  But it had its effect, a forgetful drowsiness moved over Apple Bloom.  Zecora lay her student back on her cot, by the time her head was on the pillow, she was in a dreamless sleep.

Zecora went out to meditate.  As she was expecting, her spirit guide appeared to her.  They spoke to each other in her mind.

‘It has begun, Zecora,’ said Dahood, ‘your apprentice has great potential.  It is good that she is the first of her race to learn your people’s ways.  This dream is her ‘vision’ awakening.  It will be her first and perhaps greatest trial.’

‘So what she has seen is real, the past and future?’ thought Zecora.

‘Yes,’ replied the spirit guide, ‘the memories of her mother come through her connection with her mother, she is a product of her body and so the memories were passed on at a very deep level.  But she is starting to be able to tap into the flow of time.’

‘So she really did experience her mother’s violation?’

‘Yes.’

‘What of her friend’s attack and murder?’

‘Time is like bread,’ said Dahood.  ‘The loaf of bread is the shape it is because it has been formed and baked, the shape was chosen by the baker.  That is the past, unchangeable.

But the future is like the dough unbaked.  It is still bread, but it has yet to be shaped and will not be shaped until the baker is ready to bake it.  At that time they will choose the shape based on what has happened up to then.  Everything is there that can happen.  But the slightest thing can change the future.’

‘Do you always speak in metaphor?’ thought Zecora with a smile.

‘Yes,’ said Dahood, Zecora could feel his smile, ‘it makes me sound wise.’

Then his tone changed;

‘She will be faced with a situation that will test her dedication to the teachings.  She must be reminded that she has dedicated herself to helping others.  Force and violence is only in self-defense and as a last resort.  Killing is to be avoided, except perhaps in the defense of ones in you care.

Vengeance is not to be tolerated ever.  Not only because it is counter to the teachings, but more than that, it is a path to self-destruction.  In my time there was a saying;

When seeking vengeance, you must first dig two graves.

Make sure that when she is confronted, and confronted she will be, she acts in the shaman way.  The sin of patricide must not be committed!’

‘You can’t be a healer and yet harm others,’ thought Zecora.

“Exactly,’ returned Dahood.

Zecora felt her guide fade away, she remained in meditation until the sun came up and was time for she and her apprentice to start the day.

Apple Bloom was already preparing the morning meal for her mistress and herself.  Zecora was happy that Apple Bloom, like all the Apples, was such a good cook.  Zecora could put together potions and brews to do just about anything.  Her herbal tea blends were to die for.  But when it came to food,  her cooking could sometimes turn a vulture’s stomach.

Chapter Eight: It All Comes Out (To The Relief Of All)

CHAPTER EIGHT

It All Comes Out (To The Relief Of All)

Scootaloo flew home after her day at work.  She worked as a supervisor on one of Rainbow’s weather teams.  At first the other ponies thought that she got the position because of being Rainbow’s daughter.  But it turned out that her skill with the weather and not to mention her command of magic, gave her a distinct advantage.  Her team welcomed her leadership, and appreciated her skills.

On entering the cloud house, she could smell Pinkie’s cooking.  That alone had been worth the adoption.  But really she did appreciate the family she now had.  Not one day went by that she did not think how lucky she was to be the daughter of Rainbow and Pinkie Dash.

“I’m home!” called out Scootaloo.

Pinkie came trotting out of the kitchen.  She gave Scoot a hug and a motherly kiss.

“How was my favorite daughter’s day today?” asked the pink pony.

“It was good,” said Scootaloo with a smile. “And I am your only daughter.”

“Then I guess if you want to look at it like that, then you would have to be my least favorite daughter,” giggled Pinkie.

“Oh mom!” laughed Scootaloo.

Pinkie hugged Scoot again.  It was not only Scootaloo who enjoyed the mother/daughter relationship.  Pinkie loved children so much, even the grownup ones.  And it did not matter that Scoot was adopted.  She was her daughter and next to her relationship with her wife (and lovers) it was the most important thing in her life.

After the adoption of Scootaloo, Pinkie decided to become a full time ‘house wife’.  She enjoyed taking care of Rainbow and Scootaloo and wanted nothing more out of life.

“Go clean up,” said Pinkie, “dinner will be ready soon, and we will eat when your mother gets home.”

“Clean up?” said Scoot, in an old joke (by now) with Pinkie, “I work all day with clouds full of water!”

“Just do it silly!” said Pinkie giving her daughter a kiss.

Scootaloo trotted off laughing to her room and then to the bathroom.  Pinkie went back to the kitchen.

It was not long before Rainbow came through the front door.  She was greeted by her wife and daughter.  Rainbow could never believe that at one time she had wanted no relationships to tie her down.  If she could pull a ‘Twilight’ and go back in time to the past Rainbow, she would slap the horse-apples out of herself for being so stupidly closed-minded.

Dinner was fantastic as usual, and the little family sat around after, enjoying one of Pinkie’s cakes and some coffee.  Then Scootaloo suddenly looked uncomfortable.

“What’s wrong, Squirt?” asked Rainbow, noticing her daughter's look.

“Mom, don’t take this wrong,” said Scoot uncomfortably. “I need to ask something, and I know it may be none of my business, and if so tell me.  But Dinky and I were talking and we are concerned.”

“Concerned?” asked Pinkie.

“Concerned about our parents.  No offense, but the four of you have been acting a bit goofy for some time now.  You have been having these overnight ‘meetings’ more and more often.  We are not foals, so we know what is going on.”

Scootaloo paused;

“We want to know what is going on for real.  We love you all so much.  We just want to understand what is going on.”

Rainbow and Pinkie looked at each other.  They knew that someday they would have to come clean about the special relationship that they shared with Twilight and Bubbles.

“Sweetheart,” said Pinkie, “you are right, there is ‘something’.  And you do deserve to know the whole truth.  And it may be more than you realize.  We need to talk to Twilight and Bubbles, and we promise that we will tell you and Dinky everything.”

“That is all I ask, mom.” Said Scootaloo, getting up kissing Rainbow and Pinkie and going back to her room.

That evening, the Dash’s had dropped in on the Sparkles.  They were sitting at the kitchen table, sipping some delicious wine that Twilight was able to get from the palace cellars.  As it turned out, Dinky had the same talk with her mothers that day as well.

“We knew that this would happen, one day.” Said Twilight, “and as I see it we have two choices.  Come clean to our families and end this relationship.”

There were troubled looks all around.  Rainbow was looking in Twilight’s eyes; a sad look crossed her face.

“Or?” asked Bubbles.

“We come clean about all this to ALL our family and friends, and we all face the consequences.” Said Twilight, there was trepidation in her voice. “For the record, I am for the second one.  But the ponies that need to really make this decision are you, Bubbles and Pinkie.  Rainbow and I are a position that would make us unable to make an unbiased decision.”

“I am all for the letting everypony know.” Said Pinkie, “but I am just as involved with this as the two of you.  However, Bubbles, you did not go through the underworld, you did not experience the feeling of the displacement of time.  And I know how much you have enjoyed the four of us together; you are probably the only one who can make a decision without any influence from the experience.”

Bubbles sat quiet for a moment, all eye were on her.

“I know if I said that I wanted to put an end to this, that all of you would honor that request, I have no doubt of that.  But I have no doubt that none of you would be happy, at least fully happy until the situation changed, that is that Pinkie and I are gone.  And I hope that will not be for years to come.  I don’t think that Pinkie and I could put up with you two sulking around for years.”

“Darling,” said Twilight, “don’t let that be the deciding factor.  Rainbow and I have already told each other that we would always abide with whatever you and Pinkie wanted.”

“Is that true?” asked Bubbles to Rainbow.

“It is, we love each other but we also love you two more than anything.  And if that was your decision.  We will do what you say.  No sneaking around, no moping, no anything.”  Said Rainbow.

Bubbles thought, there was an odd look on her face.

“Pinkie, can I ask you something?” asked Bubbles.  She motioned for Pinkie to come over.

“Yes, Bubbles?” answered the pink pony.

Bubbles motioned for Pinkie to come closer.  Pinkie leaned in.  It looked as if Bubbles was whispering in Pinkie’s ear.  Then the way Pinkie started to tremble and moan, it was apparent that Bubbles was kissing Pinkie’s ear with her tongue deep in it.

Pinkie grabbed Bubbles and proceeded to kiss her quite passionately.

“Do you two actually think that Pinkie and I want to give all this up?” said Bubbles breaking the kiss. “We love our wives dearly.  But according to Luna, you are all our wives!”

“Then I take it that you are for breaking it to all our friends?” asked Rainbow.

“I do,” then Bubbles turned to Twilight, “I think it might be a good idea to send a message to Luna to ask her advice on this.”

A week later, there was a dinner at Sugarcube Corner.  Pinkie had the chance to decorate the place.  It was not as ‘over the top’ as some of her parties, but it was lively enough.

There were in attendance; Rainbow, Pinkie and Scootaloo Dash.  Big Mac, Cheerilee, Applejack, Rarity and Apple Bloom Apple along with Zecora.  Twilight, Bubbles, Dinky, Dawn Sparkle along with Sparkler Star.  Lyra and Bon-Bon Heartstrings.  Magnum and Pearl.  Octavia Pie and Vinyl Scratch (Pinkie made a note [no pun intended] to herself to ask about why her sister was with the white unicorn so much).  Filthy, Nouveau, Diamond Tiara and Sweetie Belle Rich.  There were also Silver Spoon and her new husband Shady Daze.

Rainbow, Twilight, Pinkie and Bubbles were at a table, talking low.  Several of the ponies gathered could tell that they were looking nervous.  Rarity and Applejack walked over to check on their friends.

“Okay you four,” said A.J., “you all look ‘more nervous than a worm in an apple on cider makin’ day’.  You goin’ to tell us what is up or is this all to try to distract our attention?”

“I think what my darling wife is trying to say;” said Rarity, “is that you four have been acting odd for some time.  We thought that we were all PFF’s.  If there is trouble, we want to know.  We have always been there for each other.”

The four looked at each other; they all nodded in consent to Twilight.

“You are right,” said Twilight, “I think it is time to tell everypony.”

With that all four ponies at the table took a large drink of wine.  Twilight stood up and called out.

“Everypony, I would like to tell you all something.” Said Twilight, then taking another slug of wine.

“You all know about the thing that happened about eight years ago when, who we thought was Bubbles late ex-husband returned from the past.  At the same time, Pinkie was in that dreadful accident which nearly killed her.

Shooting Star had put a restraining order on me to keep me from my family, which depressed me as it was.  Then I found out that Pinkie was not going to make it, I had overheard Rainbow telling Pinkie that when Pinkie did pass away, she was going to kill herself rather than go on without her.

That plus the perceived loss of my family caused me to consider a rather extreme measure.  I was going to use a spell to give my life-force to save Pinkie.  I did not want to go on without my family or friends.”

There were some murmurs from the gathered ponies, some had heard this before and for some, it was the first time hearing the details.  Twilight continued;

“Before I could do this, Shooting Star knocked me out and did the spell and gave his life-force to Pinkie in a selfless act for a pony that he did not know.

Or so we thought.  It turned out that he was only incomplete copy of Shooting Star, some evil and uncaring copy.  His actions were a deeper plot to get control of my power by holding part of pinkie’s spirit hostage in the underworld.  It was to get me to come to him in a situation that I would have been at a disadvantage.  He was going to use his knowledge and my power to take over Equestria, and then the world.

Through the skills of our friends Zecora and Apple Bloom, Rainbow and I went to the underworld to save Pinkie.  We defeated Shooting Star with the help of Pinkie who learned magic while sharing minds with Shooting Star.

This most or all of you have all heard.  And for the most part it is all the important points.”

Twilight paused, she looked at her companions, who gave her a look of ‘go ahead’;

“What you don’t know is how we were able to defeat Shooting Star when he had the advantage of the situation that things work different in the underworld.

His intent was to distract us enough that we could not learn how to cope with the differences in time, physics and magic to properly defend ourselves and save Pinkie.

This is the part you are going to have to take on faith or go talk to the princesses to get verification.

Time in the underworld does not work the same as here.  Past, present and future are all accessible at the same time.  Shooting Star had learned that in the distant future, that after Bubbles and Pinkie were gone, that Rainbow and I would look to each other for comfort and fall in love.”

More murmurs from the ponies.  Twilight went on;

“He took advantage of the situation and made Rainbow and I not only realize this fact, but by using the odd time flow, made us feel the feelings of that future time, and perhaps some feelings that were there to begin with.  He had hoped to confuse us.  By distracting us and having to deal with these feelings he would be able to overcome us and take over my body and return to the real world and conquer.

Being he was what he was, he forgot the power that real love can have on a pony.  I was willing to let Shooting Star take over my body, counting on the fact that Rainbow would kill me when we got back.  I was willing to die for the ponies I love.  That is Bubbles, my children, Rainbow, Pinkie and all of you.  However, Rainbow was willing to sacrifice herself by taking Shooting Star to limbo herself, to save the ponies she loves.  Not just Pinkie but myself, Bubbles and all of you ponies as well.”

Twilight paused.  She was not sure if she was getting the points across that she was trying to.  The ponies in the crowd were talking among themselves.

“What are you trying to say, Darling?” asked Rarity.

Twilight took a deep breath.

“The feelings that we were made aware of were not some illusion.  They were real feelings that we would have felt in the future.  But because of the situation, they became a part of us now.  Rainbow, Pinkie, Bubbles and I have become in love with each other equally.

It is nothing that we intended, but now that it happened, it is nothing that we can overlook.  We have been afraid to let you, our friends and family, know for fear of what you might think.  We have tried to be discreet but it has become harder as time goes by.  As all of you know, love, that is good love, grows.

Princess Luna explained it to us that it was as if we four are now truly married to each other.”

The four ponies hung their heads, as if they were ready to receive ridicule from ponies that they respected greatly.  The other ponies around talked among themselves.  Not sure what to think or what it is that they were hearing.

Then Filthy Rich stepped forward as if to talk to Twilight but he turned to talk to the ponies gathered.

“I know that you ponies know what I went through when Diamond and Sweetie were dating.  I had my head so far up my flanks it looked like I needed to have a window installed in my stomach so I could see where I was going.”  Several ponies chuckled.  “I learned that love is not always what I judge it to be.  My thoughts are not the rule, only the heart is.

Had I not learned to be open to what love really is, I would have lost my wife, my son, my daughter and the pony that turned out to be the best business partner ever, my new daughter, Sweetie Belle.  And the result of my changing my mind was a more satisfying and fulfilling relationship with my family and friends.

Plus, I don’t think that there is a pony here that would go face to face with Princess Luna and tell her what she thinks about love is wrong.”

Most ponies that had known Filthy before were in shock to hear him talk thus.

“If four ponies are in love with each other, I say fantastic!  If there are any problems with such a relationship, then it is something that they have to work through among themselves.  I for one will be here to support them, just as they supported my daughters when they were going through their time of discovery.”

Cheers broke out among the ponies gathered.  There were hugs and well wished to the four ponies.

Most went back to snacking and talking among themselves.  That is all but A.J. and Rarity.  They just stood by until all the other ponies had finished talking to the four.

“What’s wrong?” asked Bubbles.

“Did you not trust us to tell us up front?” asked Rarity, sounding hurt.

“No!  Celestia no!” said Twilight, “every time we have talked this through.  We have always acknowledged that the two of you were the last ponies we had to worry with.  It is only recently that we have even decided to come clean about this.

We have kept it from even our closest family.  It was not our intention to hurt you or A.J.’s feelings.  We have been emotional wrecks for the last eight years.  Having to hide our feelings.  Trying to hide our relationships.  While being deeply in love with each other, not just lust, not just some sick game.  But the real, life changing love that strengthens and completes a pony’s life.”

Twilight started to have tears roll down her cheeks.

“Twilight!  Darling!”  Said Rarity, “I did not mean anything bad by asking.  We can tell that what you are saying is the truth.  It is just that it might have been easier to approach us first.  We might not love you four like you now love each other.  But we love you more than just casual friends.”

Rarity hugged Twilight; A.J. joined her as did Rainbow, Pinkie and Bubbles.

Rarity then giggled;

“You could have at least bragged to us about it!  So tell me, is it just loving each other?  Or is it LOVING each other?”

“Rarity!” Bubbles smiled and said in the best imitation of Rarity’s ‘proper’ voice, “A lady does not talk about such things!”

“Sounds like fun to me!” said A.J.

“You have no idea!” said Pinkie.

All laughed.

It was noticed that Dinky, Scootaloo and Dawn were standing close by.

“So we want to know, what this means to us?” said Dinky.  “Are we going to have to fight for attention from our parents?’

“Or do we have four mothers now?” asked Scootaloo.

The four just looked at each other.

“If you want to have four mothers, that would be fine with all of us!” said Rainbow.

“Goody!” said Dawn. “I know that my new mom Pinkie will give me all the candy I want, just like before.  But now I don’t have to worry about it now because she is my mom too!”

“Pinkie!” exclaimed Rainbow, Twilight and Bubbles together.

All laughed.

Later that evening, the four were sitting in the living area of the library.  The entire extended family was there; Dinky, Dawn, Sparkler and Scootaloo.

They had had dinner together, the talk had been light.  Scootaloo and Dinky told them that they had figured as much about their relationship.  Dawn was still slightly naive to some of the workings, but she was willing to accept Rainbow and Pinkie as part of a now extended family.

“So I suppose that now that everything is out in the open,” said Scootaloo, “you will be upgrading your living arrangements.”

“To tell the truth, Squirt,” said Rainbow, “we have not gotten that far with this yet.”

“Yes,” said Twilight, “that is what we were hoping to talk about this evening.  The library is too small to accommodate three more adult ponies.”

“And the cloud house is a little too small to add four more ponies and make room for Sparkler’s visits.  Plus accommodating to unicorns is a little tricky.  Twilight can make it where you can walk on clouds.  But the logistics of getting from the ground to the house and back could be a problem.”

“Dinky is starting to manage some teleportation, but I have never been able to manage it,” said Sparkler, “not that mom has not tried to work with me on it.  I have started looking for my own place, but it is nice to visit my parents.”

“It is okay Darling,” said Bubbles, “I have learned from Twilight that not all unicorns are able to do that.”

“And I really don’t think that there any homes in Ponyville that might be big enough to hole a family of seven with guest room.” Said Pinkie, thinking out loud.

“I guess that this is something we have to look into.” Said Twilight, “perhaps one of the princesses would have a suggestion.  They have access to more info that anypony here.”

Chapter Nine: A New Way To Live

CHAPTER NINE

A New Way To Live

My Dearest Student Twilight,

My sister informed me of your situation with the found feeling with your friends when it happened.  Love is such a special thing, enjoy it and make the most of it. And for what it is worth, I applaud you for being able to be public with such an issue that might be hard to explain to the common pony.

I also thank you for being upfront with me in you telling me that you had to disclose the details about your position to your loved ones.  In this case it was perhaps the wisest decision.  Please, for now, keep the knowledge to the fewest ponies possible.

As far as suggestion of ‘living arrangements’, Luna and I have thought about it and we think it is time for you to go to the next level of your education/training.

You and Dawn will rule Equestria one day.  That day is still in the far future, but you need to start learning some of workings of statecraft, diplomacy and how a government is run.  Plus it will make it easier on Dawn to get expanded training at the school without having to worry with the commute to and from Ponyville.

The two of you will also need to learn one of the most important parts of this position.  That is the rising and lowering of the sun and moon.  Along with my special position of guardian and guide of the dead.

This is going to be hard on you, especially after all you have been through.  But you will not be able to learn these things in Ponyville.

And so, I am officially recalling you to Canterlot to start the next phase of your life.  Your wife(s) and family are of course welcome and I am sure that you will be able to use their talents.  You will, after all, be needing your own advisors and cabinet members.

I will remind you that there is plenty of room at Canterlot castle, but also the home owned by Bubbles is a rather large dwelling and might meet your needs.

I will be expecting you to visit with me in the next few days so we can get this arrangement started.  As well as planning the ceremony to elevate you to ‘Crown Princess’.

Yours,

Princess Celestia

Twilight had gathered all her friends and lovers along with the involved children.  Twilight had already disclosed the contents of the princesses letter to Bubbles, Rainbow and Pinkie.  It was the first Rarity, Applejack and the others had heard of this.  All ponies were in a very thoughtful mood.

“Twilight, Darling,” said Rarity, “I suppose that for you in particular, that you don’t have much choice in this, do you?”

“No Rarity, I guess I could resign but there is no telling what consequences that would have on me.” Said Twilight, “but I really do not want to quit, it is what I have been training for most of my life!

My biggest concern is what it will mean to my friends here in Ponyville.  I have lived here over ten years.  I have made wonderful friends, found love, raised a family and have felt the pain of loss of one close to me.  Ponyville will always be an important part of the pony I am.”

“Twilight, Baby and I know that we have not been part of your ‘inner circle’, and with all that you have been through, that may have been a good thing.” Said Lyra Heartstrings, “but know that most ponies of Ponyville have been proud of you being a member of this community.  We will miss you and know that Ponyville will always be here for you.  And perhaps, if you do not ascend too much on high, we could have an Old Mare’s Club meeting at Canterlot Castle sometime.”

“Most defiantly!” said Twilight with a smile.  “And I am sure that whatever pony goes with me, we will try our best to make the meetings.”

“And what ponies are going with you?” asked A.J.

“We have talked among ourselves and have come to a conclusion.” Said Twilight, “Bubbles and Dawn are going to go with me, that goes without saying.  Because of our situation, Rainbow and Pinkie are going as well.

The princess said that I will have to have a cabinet and advisers.  I will be relying on help from Rainbow for my dealings with the weather bureau.  Pinkie and Bubbles are happy to be ‘house wives’.

Other positions will be filled as they come open.

But I mostly wanted to ask Applejack about looking into the situation at Sweet Apple Acres and how much help now exists with her cousin Carmel working there.”

A.J. just gave a questioning look.

“I am going to need an adviser on agriculture and I could not think of a pony more well suited.

Plus I know that Rarity’s dream has always been to live in Canterlot and design dresses for royalty.  I am not royalty, yet, but I am going to be considered nobility.  And I am sure that there will be enough state functions that proper dresses will be needed.  Plus I can’t think of any socialite in Canterlot would not want clothing from the designer that makes clothing for the Crown Princess.”

“Making dresses for the Crown Princess!” exclaimed Rarity.  Her knees started to buckle, A.J. had to prop her up, “in Canterlot!”

“I don’t think I have any choice now.” Said A.J. with a smile.  “If I said no, it will be very lonely sleeping by myself!”

“What about Spikie-Wikie?” asked Rarity.

“Princess Celestia has assigned him to the Crystal Empire for the time being.” Twilight said, sounding a little sad. “That is because the crystal mountains are an ideal place for a dragon to take a nap.  It turns out that from time to time, a dragon has to take a special nap for them to grow correctly.  I suggest that all ponies who wish to see him off, do so as soon as possible.  Dragon naps are one hundred years long.  It is doubtful that any pony here will be able to see him again in their lifetime.”

“And what about us?” asked Dinky.

She and Scootaloo were standing nearby.

“Well my dear daughter,” said Twilight, “you and Scootaloo are adults.  And I think that you should be given the chance to live as such.  You are welcome to come with us to live in Canterlot.  Or you can do what we know that you can do.  Dinky, if you want, you are the new Chief Librarian of Ponyville.  Scootaloo, you are the new head of the Ponyville Weather Department.”

The two mares looked at each other, smiles grew on their faces.  Sweetie Belle, Diamond Tiara, Silver Spoon and Apple Bloom all gathered around and congratulated their two friends.  They all were now fully in the adult world.

EPILOG FOR PART TWO

Passing the Torch

From here our story will take divergent paths.

The remainder of the original Mane Six and Bubbles start new lives in Canterlot.  There they assist Twilight and Dawn in their path to their ultimate destiny.  They stay in touch with their sisters and daughters who have stepped up to fill their horse shoes back in Ponyville.  But the demands of court and the intrigue that can develop will test their metal.

For the ones left behind in Ponyville, there will be tests for them that will place them on the same footing as the six hero ponies that came before them.  Can they face threats as dire as any the Mane Six had faced?  And will they find inspiration from those who came before?

So join us for the next two episodes of;

The Derpy I Know And Love Saga