Apples and Tiaras

Chapters

A New Beginning
The Day After...
Catching Up
Green Star
Complications
Hope
She's Alive!
Hiding True Feelings
Secret Revealed
Love
Mi Amore
Letters from Home
Dragon Uncle
Hearth's Warming Eve
First Day on the Job
Twist and Shout
Giving Up!?!
Green Star Strikes
Silver Crown
Wedding
Trouble
Wife Tiara meets the CMC

A New Beginning

Applebloom rested on the couch, having unpacked the last of her boxes. “Ah! Sweet relief.” she contently sighed. “my poor hooves need a soak.”

“Your hooves!?” her cousin Zim Zam exclaimed. “you want to talk about course hooves, look at mine!” he exclaimed, holding one up to showcase the blisters on them.

now fully mature enough to move on and go out into the world to find herself, Applebloom moved away from Ponyville to Trottingham to become a good veterinarian. she heard Trottingham had the best facilities for a Vet to start up. she moved in with her cousin Zim Zam, who was the cities... i don't know the term but he's a carpet maker.

she didn't come alone. Helios, the Crystal Dragon she took in following the Winter War that gave her the idea of being a vet, came as well. but due to his size, he had to stay outside. Applebloom and Zim are working on making him a shed for him to live in. and soon because Winter was approaching.

she kept up regularly with her friends, who have all gone their separate ways but still keep in contact. Dinky and Pipsqueak left with Dinky's aunt Daring Do and her husband Silverbolt to find ancient ruins. Scootaloo and Feather Weight moved to Feather Top, the Gryphon Kingdom capital, Scoots to become a Reporter and Feather Weight a professional photographer. Babs Seed, who's still in Manehatten, mentioned she hooked up with Silver Spoon. that surprised Applebloom a bit. she doesn't think those two ever met.

and Sweetie Belle? she went on to become Sapphire Shores protege. she's quite well know for her angelic voice. and she recently wrote that she met back up with Rumble.

the rest of their school chums are doing great as well; Twist is a author, Snips is a professional wrestler and Snails is his manager (couldn't ask for a more scary combination then that), and her niece Peppy; her sister Applejack's daughter, is currently trying to set up a shop specifically for Hearth's Warming Eve.

“ew.” a knock came from the main door. Both of them were beat so they flipped a coin and Applebloom lost. Defeated, She got up and headed to the door. “you know, you’re never going to get a girl, acting like that.” Zim shrugged and plopped down on the couch. Without look, Applebloom opened the door. She should’ve looked first.

“well, looks like my vision wasn’t deceiving me. Applebloom, here in Trottingham.” Diamond Tiara said with a smug grin.

“Tiara!” Applebloom yelled in surprise. “What are you doing here?”

“I live here, stupid.”

“HERE!?” she yelled, gesturing to the house.

“no, stupid. In Trottingham. I moved here, remember?”

Oh, yeah. She forgot that Tiara had moved to Trottingham just after the Winter War and when her parents divorced. She and her father moved to Trottingham, the city farthest away from Ponyville. She kept up regular letters with Silver Spoon, who became a friend to the CMC after Tiara moved.

“I completely forgot about that.” Applebloom nervously said.

“I’m not surprised. You were always the lamest out of your little playgroup. Still a blank flank?”

Applebloom frowned at her. “Really? You know I got my Cutie Mark when I adopted Helios.” she showed her flank, showcasing the crystal-dragons head.

“Oh, right. That dragon thing. How is it?”

“he’s out back. Look, did you come here to just insult me?”

Tiara shrugged. “well, that’s half of it. The other half is to just say hey.”

That part, Applebloom wasn’t buying. “really? Just to say hey?”

“yeah. First time in years I met someone from Ponyville, much less a friend.”

“a friend? Hahahaha. Tiara. We were never friends. You were a very mean bully, border lining on torturer.”

“Girls gotta have a hobby.” the smug ‘princess’ turned to leave. “see you later, blank flank.” she left, leaving a steamed up Applebloom behind.

She slammed the door shut, grabbed a pillow, and yelled into it. “FAUST, SHE’S PRETENTIOUS!”

Zim, who had gotten comfortable, looked at her without a care in the world. “I take it you know her?”

Applebloom removed her head from the pillow. “Know her?” she tossed the pillow. “She basically tortured me during school. Ugh, and I was hoping never to see her again.”

Zim just sat there with a mug of cider on hoof. “if you say so. But fate can work in mysterious ways. Maybe you two were supposed to meet again.”

Applebloom couldn’t help but laugh at that. Fate, meeting back up with her? “yeah, right.” she laughed.

“okay. Ignore me. But something tells me you’re gonna see her again.”

Applebloom ignored her with a sputter and walked out to check on Helios.

She should’ve listened.

The next day was a wet one with a storm raging outside. To save a description, it was raining cats and dogs.

The mare from Ponyvlle looked out a window to the raging storm. “wow. Remind me to tip the weather team.”

“ditto.” Zim agreed. Applebloom went to sit down in a beanbag with a mug of cider when, much to their surprise, a rapid knock came at the door. Whoever’s behind it is really frantic. “Who could that be?”

Applebloom got up and headed to the door. “I don’t know.” she opened the door and gasped when she saw a beaten and bruised Diamond Tiara standing on the other side. “Tiara?!”

“I’m sorry, but I didn’t know where else to go.” she said with a crying shiver.

“un, come in. come in.” Tiara did just that. Applebloom took her coat and put it over the shivering mare. “Un, Zim, think you can make some hot cocoa?”

“sure.” he ran into the kitchen and got started on it.

Applebloom lead Tiara into the kitchen and sat her down. She wiped the hair away from a bruise and winced. “What happened?”

Tiara wiped her eyes. “my… my now ex-boyfriend did this to me.”

“Why?”

Tiara sniffled and wiped her eyes again. “because I said hello to you instead of being at home, doing… doing the deed.”

“unbelievable.” Zim said. “he beat you, just because you wouldn’t put out? Unbelievable.”

“it’s worse.” she felt tears run down her cheek but she didn’t care. “I found out that I’m… I’m pregnant. With his child.” Applebloom gasped. It’s just like what happened with Twilight back in Feather Top. “I found out a few weeks ago and he beat me for that.”

“Didn’t you tell your dad about this?”

“he doesn’t care. He’s so focused on his work, he never cared about what happens to me. I could loose a few legs and he couldn’t care. It‘s been like that ever since I was a filly.”

Tiara was surprised to have Applebloom hugging her out of sympathy. “I’m so sorry, Tiara. I never knew.” a realization entered her mind. “wait. Was that why you were so mean to us?”

The beaten mare slowly nodded. “part of the reason. The other reason is because… I was so alone in life and I couldn’t think of any other reason to hang with you all. I knew I had a reputation as a bully and I played the angle. That didn’t work out for me, did it?”

She was a bully… just to hang out with them? Applebloom lightly chuckled. “you dork. You didn’t need to do that. You could’ve just asked ‘hey, can I hang with you’? that’s all it could’ve take.”

“I know that now, but I was a filly. We were stupid back then.”

“no argument there.” Applebloom chuckled at the antics she and her friends got up to.

Applebloom flicked the light on in her room and pulled back the blankets. “you can sleep in my room tonight.” she told Tiara.

“what about you?” a concerned Tiara asked, walking in.

“I’ll take the couch. It’s the least I can do for you.” she headed to the door and grabbed the handle.

“Applebloom…” Tiara said, making her stop in her tracks. “thanks… for helping me.”

Applebloom gently nuzzled her. “What are friends for, Tiara?” she said with a smile. Tiara smiled back.

Applebloom walked downstairs and went looking for blankets. “So how long is your friend going to stay with us?” Zim asked.

“just until she gets back on her feet, Zim.” she found and grabbed a blanket. “she just had her boyfriend beat her and found out she’s pregnant. Wouldn’t you feel down if that happened to you?”

Zim shrugged. “you have a point.” Applebloom set one blanket on the couch and tossed another one to the other end. “but be careful with her, Applebloom. I met mares like her before and they’re likely to be scared by something like this.”

“I know, Zim. My aunt Twilight went though the same thing when I was a filly and she got out just fine.”

Zim yawned out of drowsiness. “if you say so. I’m heading to bed.” he headed up the stairs, shutting off the lights behind him.

“Good night.” Applebloom replied. She turned off the lights in the living room, laid down on the couch, and fell asleep then and there.

When Diamond Tiara woke up, she felt horrible. Her boyfriend left and beat her, she’s pregnant with his kid, she was forced to stay with a mare she basically tortured as a filly. When did her life turn into crap? A knock came from the door, forcing her to open her eyes. “Who is it?” she said with a course voice.

“it’s the pizza man. Who do you think it is?” Applebloom replied. Tiara rolled on her side, looking away from the door as Bloom opened the door and walked in. “un… Tiara? You okay?”

“no… I’m not, Applebloom. I just had a… really bad day yesterday and I brought you into it. I’m sorry for that.”

Applebloom chuckled. “it’s okay, Tiara. It’s okay. What are friends for?”

Friends… just thinking about that word made Tiara both chuckle and cry. She treated Applebloom like crap but she’s helping her. She turned around. “Thanks, Applebloom.” she noticed that the mare was carrying a breakfast tray on her back. “You made me breakfast in bed?”

“yeah. Figured it’s the least I can do for you after what you went though.” she walked over to give it to Tiara when she stepped and tripped on a teddy bear. Applebloom yelled as she fell, causing the contents of the tray to spill all over and for her to fall face first into Tiara’s mouth, kissing her on the lips.

Both mares went wide-eyed then immediately broke the kiss. They just laid there, looking at each other, turning as red as strawberries. They didn’t move; they just stared into each other’s eyes.

“T-Tiara…”

“A-Applebloom…”

They didn’t move or tear their gaze away from each other.

The Day After...

“it’s the pizza man. Who do you think it is?” Applebloom replied. Tiara rolled on her side, looking away from the door as Bloom opened the door and walked in. “un… Tiara? You okay?”

“no… I’m not, Applebloom. I just had a… really bad day yesterday and I brought you into it. I’m sorry for that.”

Applebloom chuckled. “it’s okay, Tiara. It’s okay. What are friends for?”

Both mares went wide-eyed then immediately broke the kiss. They just laid there, looking at each other, turning as red as strawberries. They didn’t move; they just stared into each other’s eyes.

“T-Tiara…”

“A-Applebloom…”

They didn’t move or tear their gaze away from each other.

"hey Bloom, there's a sale going on in the markets later today. maybe we could..." Zim walked into the room and saw the 2 mares in a very... awkward situation. "Un... what happened?"

Applebloom bit her lip and squeaked though her lips. "un... un... I..."

Tiara chuckled at her nervousness. she knew Applebloom wouldn't think of a good excuse. "Applebloom tripped on a teddy bear and fell on me. hence... this."

Zim pursed his lips and moved them to the side. "Really?"

"Yn... yeah. yeah. really." Applebloom insisted. she got off the bed and wiped the food off her fur. "un... i gotta go check on Helios. be right back." she quickly walked out of her room, making sure not to show her blushing. she bolted down the stairs before Zim could ask more questions.

instead, Zim turned back to Tiara. "So... how are you feeling?"

he's really asking that? "i was beaten by my Ex... i'm carrying his child... and i'm currently putting up residence with a pony i used to bully when we were both fillies. what does that tell you?"

"..."

"That's what i thought."

Zim picked up the teddy bear Applebloom tripped on and tossed it to the side. "so... who's the pony who knocked you up?"

"Gryphon. actually." a Gryphon? that was something he never expected to hear. "his name's Green Star and he... he's not exactly the friendly type."

"then why did you go out with him?"

Tiara scoffed. "I was young. we both were. we weren't thinking right. plus, he was a bad boy and i have a thing for bad boys. well... had."

Zim went on picking up the stuff Applebloom spilled. "why not go to your father about this?"

"he looked up to Green Star. plus... he and i don't have the... best relationship."

"oh." Zim didn't know how to comfort her about this or how to cheer her up. "Well... you're welcome to stay as long as you want. any friend of Applebloom's is a friend of mine."

"Thanks." Tiara said with a smile. that's the first good thing that happened to her in months.

"you never met Diamond Tiara, did you Helios? she moved to Trottingham long before she met you." Applebloom asked her pet. the Crystal Dragon lightly growled, too focused on a leg of lamb Applebloom found downtown.

Trottingham, while in Equestria, is mostly dominated by Gryphons & Dragons and has a heavy meat market. buying a leg of lamb is as easy as 1, 2, 3.

"Well... Tiara was not a... friendly pony to be around. she was a horrid bully that borderlined tortured me. not sure where she got such a horrid personality. it was scary, is what it was." Helios bit the leg right down at the bone and swallowed half of it, bone and all.

a curtain in the kitchen parted and the window slightly opened. "i mean... Tiara was pretty horrid. she was like a dictator. tortured me and my friends to the point of scarring us. you know, i was this close to saying no to taking her in. but..." Applebloom sat down beside one of Helios' legs. "but when i saw her eyes... she looked so scared, so... so frightened. i never saw her like that. it reminded me that Tiara was a pony like me- who was very horrid in grade school. and..." she touched her lips momentarily. she shook her head, snapping out of it.

Helios swallowed the last of his leg of lamp and licked his lips. "That should hold you until lunch." Bloom said as she got up. "I gotta head into town and run a few errands. keep an eye on the place?" Helios lightly growled in agreement. Applebloom chuckled. "Thanks."

Applebloom walked out of the backyard and in though the kitchen. she saw Tiara walk away from the window and to the fridge. Bloom noticed that the window was open and chuckled. she must've eavesdropped and is now trying to hide it. Applebloom decided to play along. "how you feeling?"

Tiara scoffed. "You too? you already asked me before. and your cousin just a few minutes ago. i'm feeling like crap and i'm hungry. what do you guys got?"

"hmm... some hay frys in the freezer, some leftover chocolate cake from a party Zim had before i came, and Pinkie Pie sent some cookies with me when i moved."

that sounded good. "OH, Cookies!"

"You sure you want that for breakfast?"

Tiara gave her a suspicious look. "you spilled breakfast all over me. and i'm eating for two now. and considering what happened to me these past few days, i think Cookies would be the least of my worries!"

"Okay! okay. you made your point!" Applebloom went upstairs. "i should warn you, they're oatmeal raisin and i know they aren't your favorite."

"It's okay. i'm already getting cravings. and right now, it's Oatmeal Raisin."

"Lucky you." she went into her room, ruffled though her boxes, found the tin of cookies, and went back downstairs. "enjoy. i'm heading out." she said, handing the tin to Tiara.

"where you going?"

"just running a few errands. get to know Helios. he'll like to meet you."

"Helios?" the door closed before Tiara could get a answer. "that the dragon she was talking too?"

Tiara slowly walked out, feeling intimidated by the crystal dragon. so big and so menacing. "Um... hi, Helios. m-my name's Diamond Tiara. i-i'm sure Applebloom told you about me."

the dragon snorted out smoke then turned his head to go to sleep. "i... i see. you want to take a nap. i'm not gonna pry into things. just gonna... gonna leave you alone... hehe..."

TIara turned and nervously breathed out as she walked away. she never felt more intimidated in her life. that dragon was so scary. how can Applebloom not be scared around him? she must have nerves of steel. guess that would explain why she was able to put up with her bullying.

Catching Up

Diamond Tiara slowly walked out, feeling intimidated by the Crystal Dragon. So big and so menacing. "Um... hi, Helios. m-my name's Diamond Tiara. i-i'm sure Applebloom told you about me."

The dragon snorted out smoke then turned his head to go to sleep. "i... i see. you want to take a nap. i'm not gonna pry into things. just gonna... gonna leave you alone... hehe..."

TIara turned and nervously breathed out as she walked away. she never felt more intimidated in her life. That dragon was so scary. How can Applebloom not be scared around him? She must have Nerves of Steel. Guess that would explain why she was able to put up with her bullying.

"And she's still helping me regardless of what i did to her." that made Tiara think of a way to pay her back. "where does Zim keep the cookbooks?"

Applebloom's errands took her all over Trottingham. first was a stop at the local markets, buying food for herself and Helios. it resulted in a large amount of hay frys and a couple dozen pounds of meat, which she asked to be delivered.

Next was City Hall, as Zim asked her to drop off bills he had paid. it turned out to take a lot longer then she planned as a old mare was taking FOREVER filling out a form.

Lastly was the bank where she was to ask for a loan for her Veterinary Practice. a task easier said then done.

"What do you mean, you're turning me down for a loan!?!" Applebloom exclaimed.

where was Money Britches to begin, he had no idea. "Where do i begin?You have no credibility. You have no job experience..."

"I do too have experience! Didn't you call one of my contacts?!"

"your contact, Fluttershy, wasn't available for a reference. and neither were your other contacts; Applejack, Twilight Sparkle, Sweetie Belle..."

"None of them? not even Duchess Trixie?"

"nope. they must've had something to do."

he was right. back in Ponyville, they were celebrating Starlight Sparkle's 15th birthday and Peppy Pine's 14th Birthday. Applebloom didn't know because she didn't receive the invitations yet.

"So... i'm not getting a loan at all!?"

"Sorry. but unless i get good recommendations from your sources, i'm afraid your loan is canceled."

Applebloom couldn't believe this! what the hell happened to her to deserve this?

"...hmm.... how about Apple Pie? eh, no. too ironic."

Tiara clamored her way though the Kitchen, making Applebloom a little treat for helping her last night. the only trouble is that she's having trouble trying to decide which cake or pie to make. and Zim isn't being helpful.

"Why not a nice carrot cake?" he suggested.

Tiara gave him a mean look, which surprised him and made him feel insignificant. "why don't you shut your pie hole and let me think?!"

Zim did just that and shut up. he knows she's not doing that voluntarily; it's all those pregnancy hormones. such a shame. she's far too young to be a mother. she's only 22. at least, that's how old Applebloom is and he figures Tiara is the same age. give or take.

Tiara groaned and slammed her head on the counter, causing a cookbook to fall out and land on her head. "ow..."

Zim walked over and took the book off of Tiara's head. "huh..."

"what?" Tiara got up and looked at it. the book that landed on her opened up into page on cakes. in this case, a chocolate cake. "well... sometimes the basics are the best..."

After 2 hours, Applebloom came back to the house, feeling as miserable as shit. "Man... Zim isn't going to like this." she said win a defeated tone. "*sigh* when did my life get so complicated?"

She opened the door and went on in. she wasn't prepared to see a messy Tiara standing there, holding a cake for Applebloom. "Tiara?" Applebloom felt a bit embarrassed "Wha... what's the cake for?"

"it's a thank you. a thank you for helping me last night. and for putting up with me."

"Putting up with you?"

Tiara put the cake down on a table and sat down on a chair. "for... putting up with the horrid ways me and Silver Spoon tormented you when we were fillies. you had no reason to help me, and yet you did."

"Of course i did." Applebloom sat down on the couch and got comfy. "we may not have had the best relationship when we were kids but that's in the past. and besides, last night i saw a wounded and heartbroken mare in need of help and i gave my help. that's something my sister taught me."

Tiara chuckled. "a SIster... i'm envious."

"envious?"

"Yeah. i grew up a only child so i could only envious of other families. and all that time Mom and Dad spent in their room, i thought i was going to get a brother or sister. I didn't know they were... having arguments that lead to them divorcing." Tiara softly cried and wiped her eyes.

"why did they?" Applebloom somberly asked.

"Oh... you don't want to know."

"Oh, i do. spill, Tiara. why'd you leave town?"

Tiara somberly sighed and sat back. "My parents divorced because Dad caught Mom cheating on him." Applebloom gasped and held her mouth. "she was with another pony- the family maid. that lead to a long argument that lasted several days and ended with them divorcing. Dad got custody of me and we moved out here. i made new friends and almost forgot about my old life in Ponyville. except for letters from Silver Spoons." Tiara lightly chuckled. "i just remembered that i haven't heard from her in a couple of months. what happened to her? she said she was moving to Manehatten."

"she did. and she met with my cousin Babs Seed. the two of them hit it off, according to her letter."

"good. it's good to for Silver Spoons to get some new friends." Tiara paused for a moment. "so... how are the rest of the Crusaders doing?"

"Last i heard, pretty good." Applebloom, feeling a bit peckish, went into the kitchen to grab a couple of plates. "Dinky and Pipsqueak ran off with Daring Do and her Gryphon husband Silverbolt. Scootaloo is in Feather Top with Feather Weight, working on becoming a reporter." Applebloom returned with the plates, some forks, and a serving knife. she passed a plate to Tiara and began cutting the cake up. "And Sweetie Belle went on to become Sapphire Shores' protege and becoming a famous singer."

"That part, i knew." Tiara took a piece of cake offered by Applebloom and used her fork to cut it. "i have a few records of hers. never knew she had such a amazing voice."

"Surprised Sapphire Shores as well." Applebloom took a big slice and bit into it.

"So... is it true about all that happened? The Changeling Invasion? Discord's return? and that massive Dragon?"

Applebloom wanted to answer but had her mouth full. she swallowed and lightly burped. "all true. Chrysalis launched a invasion of Canterlot, which lead to the Winter War, which ended in a Treaty that was sealed with Fluttershy and Mirror's Edge- that wounded Changeling we found - marriage. Discord appeared and kidnapped Eris, Rainbow Dash's adopted Draconequus daughter and Scootaloo's adopted sister- Dash adopted her, by the way-, and the two caused a lot of chaos. in the end, Eris was forced to die so Erys, Celestia's daughter, could live and Discord came to our side. and that Dragon... well, he ended up coming to our side as well."

Tiara had trouble following. "how un... how was that possible?"

"remember that human Jax? purple hair, large wings, has a real short temper to us?"

"OH! her. i remember her."

"Well, she has a spell called Personality Shift. it does one of two things: either exorcises a deadly spirit from someone..."

"i remember that story with Requiem and Nightmare Moon." Tiara sighed.

"...or it divides someone into a being that's all good and a being that's all bad. Chrysalis and Discord, bad parts gone. Oscurita... well..."

"Oscurita?"

"the giant dragon. quite a back story with him. turns out Oscurita was originally a normal sized Drake named eTu`nes who was Derpy's first friend. the two of them... fell in love."

Tiara just had to interrupt. "Derpy? the klutzy mailmare fell in love with a dragon?"

"She didn't feet it at the time but eTunes was in full-on heartthrob mode. but... thanks to a altercation, eTunes ran away and hasn't been seen for 8 years since. he did leave his mark though. he's Dinky's real dad."

"What?!"

"yeah. she got Dragon Wings during the final hours of the Winter war. she's basically a demonic Alicorn. mmm... speaking of which, i got something to tell you later." Tiara got curious. "anyways, eTunes came across a horrid duo of humans named Orochi and Tsylatac. they corrupted him and turned him into Oscurita. but, thanks to Jax's Personality Shift and eTunes love for Derpy, they brought him back. they still had to deal with Oscurita's shell. they beat him and those 2 disappeared. Derpy and eTu`nes got married the same day the humans left."

"Aw, they're gone."

"Have been."

ow. she missed so much. Tiara should've stayed in Ponyville; it's more eventful then this boring town. "So... what happened after that?"

"well... everything quieted down and they started having kids. my sister Applejack and her husband Zilver have a daughter named Peppy. Pinkie and Marble have a daughter named Cotton Cloud, Fluttershy and Mirror's Edge have twins; Golden Day and Season's Edge. Rarity and Spike have two kids; Filigree and Fire Ruby. Rainbow Dash and Storm Shadow have two kids; Soarin' Cloud and Eris Shine. Trixie and Luna have twin daughters; Marian and Woona. Cadence and Armor have a son named Glade Yggdrasill; named him after Jax and Sora. Lyra and Bonbon have a daughter named Sweet Song. Vinyl and Octavia have a son named Electronic Symphony- named their nightclub after him. Derpy and eTu`nes have a daughter named Windancer. and Twilight and Halo have two daughters; Starlight Sparkle and Goldie."

Tiara whistled. that's a lot of kids. "That's a lot of kids."

"Yeah. no kidding. and remember when i said that Dinky is now some kind of Demonic Alicorn of sorts? and when Twilight was pregnant after the whole 'turned into human' fiasco?"

where is she going with this? "yyyeah?"

"well, Starlight IS a Alicorn."

"What?!"

"yeah. and to make it more weirder, she was born with a Cutie Mark and with powers over time!"

Tiara's mouth dropped. she had to be making this up. "You're making this up."

Applebloom countered by producing a picture of the tyke when she was born. "believe me now?"

Tiara's mouth dropped even further. she was telling the truth. "wow. must be tough for her, being a abomination. eh... if that's the right term."

Applebloom shrugged. "She never corrected anyone. and she's had a hard time because of it. except for her mother's friend's kids, nopony seems to be kind to her."

Tiara felt a connection there. "kind of like you and me."

Applebloom didn't notice it at first. "yeah. kind of like you and me. but she has all those friends, like me."

"yeah... like you..." Tiara tapped her hooves on her lap and sighed. "i'm.. sorry for what i pulled when we were fillies."

"Ah, it's nothing." Applebloom got up and cracked her back. "i heard that bullies bully because they're emotionally vulnerable." Tiara didn't argue with that.

Tiara looked up at the clock and winced. "OH, Geez! i gotta get home before dad sends out the police."

"i thought you said he didn't care about you."

"I'm still his daughter. and my dad is a important pony so if i'm missing..."

"I get it. i get it."

Tiara ran to the door, stopped there, and lightly hugged Applebloom, making her blush. "thank you for your hospitality. glad i have a friend like you."

"Same here, Tiara." Tiara broke the hug and headed for the door. "OH, wait. what are you going to tell him, about the whole pregnancy thing?"

"I'll think of something. i just need to get home! i'll think of it then!"

"Okay. will you come by tomorrow?"

"if i can!" Tiara ran off and headed for home as fast as she could.

Applebloom watched her run, watching her plot sway from side to side, moving-- Applebloom realized what she was doing and shook her head.

"That was odd." she said.

Green Star

Applebloom snored up a storm, laying on her bed in a very.. awkward position. Zim, in the next room over, was used to snoring back in his old home, his brother would snore like there's no tomorrow, so he's used to this. Applebloom pleasurable moaned in her sleep, thinking of her getting her own special somepony and them doing... IT.

in her dream, she and her lover were doing... IT, with sheets strewn all over and the room- that's right, the room - a complete mess. after a wild night of passion, Applebloom and her lover retired to the bed, where they... finished.

Applebloom rolled off her lover and gasped for air. "That... was... awesome..."

her lover rolled over and wrapped her light-pink hoof around her waist. "Yeah it was." Tiara said. wait, Tiara?

that unexpected aspect woke Applebloom up in a start and a yelp.

"That... that came out of nowhere." She gasped. she shook her head, trying to get that image out. "why was it Tiara?" she shook her head again. "ugh. this hasn't been my week."

Applebloom rolled out of bed and groaned. First she got turned down for a loan, now this sex dream. Trottingham hasn't been nice to her. Maybe she should've moved to Baltimare.

Zim was already making breakfast when Applebloom came down from the top floor, tried as heck and her hair a COMPLETE mess. Zim took notice and reacted. "WOW! what happened to you?"

"rough night." she groaned. she reached the kitchen table and slammed her head on it.

"must've been. i heard you moaning. Erotically."

Applebloom squeaked, her mouth dropping as far down as it could. "You didn't!"

"I did." Zim evilly chuckled.

Applebloom cried and slammed her head back onto the table. wait. he just said moaning. he can't know who she was with in her dream. "Have we heard from Tiara yet?"

"No. and i'm starting to get worried."

Applebloom felt the same. It's been a week since she last came over. A WEEK. And they don't know what happened to her. they're worried that that Green Star fella Tiara mentioned could've taken her. They hope not.

A knock came from the front door, making Applebloom groan again. "Who's here at this hour?"

"I don't know. go check it, will you?"

Applebloom gave him a foul look then snarled. She angrily got up and went to the door. "Dang Trottinghamingtons. Ponies from Ponyville like to sleep in on the weekends, not wake up at the crack of dawn!" She opened the door, ready to give the person a piece of her mind. On the other side was a surprisingly cheerful Diamond Tiara, carrying a saddle bag on her back.

"Hey Applebloom." she said with a smile.

"Tiara? What are you doing here? and this early in the morning?"

"Sorry about that. i finally got probation." she said as she walked in.

"Probation?" Applebloom closed the door, confused beyond reckoning. "Okay. start at the beginning because you completely lost me. Start with why we haven't seen you in a week."

Tiara sighed as she sat down at the kitchen table.. Zim heard her come in- without Applebloom saying anything - and made another batch of his breakfast.. "Well, i told my Dad of my... predicament. when i told him, i was afraid he was gonna blow a gasket and berate me. but... instead, he locked me in my room for a week."

"Wait wait wait. he locked you up?" Zim asked, trying to make some sense of this.

"that was a poor choice of words." Tiara muttered. "he didn't 'lock' lock me up. i wasn't stuck in my room 24/7. i wasn't allowed to leave the house."

"Still, that's a bit extreme."

"That's how Dad works." Tiara sighed. "The Probation thing is me finally being able to leave, but under supervision."

"Supervision?" Applebloom asked.

"Yeah. he has some pull with the city council and he hired a couple officers to keep an eye on me. think they left when they saw me enter."

Great. they're being watched. Zim didn't want this. "So... what did you do for your week of imprisonment?"

"Research. i had the maid check out every book on pregnancy, foalbirth, and motherly duties she could from the library. i'm pretty much prepared for the next 10 months."

"well, i wouldn't be so sure about that." Zim muttered. she put his breakfast on a plate and sent the skillet into the sink. "I have a friend of mine who got pregnant during our sophomore year in High School. she did the same thing as you; saw the positive, did a lot of research. but, there are some things books do not tell you."

"Like what?" Applebloom asked, having paid no attention during biology class in High School.

"Branston-Hicks Contractions, Miscarriage, you could become crippled. a whole number of things can happen; none of them good."

Tiara scoffed. "i think i can manage. but that does remind me..." she reached into her saddle-bags and pulled out a book. she handed it to Applebloom, who took it and looked at the cover.

"A Father's Guide: how to help your special someone though the most magical time of their lives?" Zim gagged, poking a toothpick into his mouth. "What is this?"

"well... the baby's father won't help and i couldn't ask Dad. so... i was hoping you would help."

"Me? why me?"

Tiara sighed. "cause you're the only friend i have right now, Applebloom. Green Star spread it around that i was a slut and slept with him until i got pregnant. Truth be told, he mounted me. IN my sleep!"

"Ew." both Zim and Applebloom said.

"And thanks to him spreading those rumors, my friends aren't talking to me anymore. they practically abandoned me. you're the only one i have left. Please, Applebloom."

Applebloom didn't respond at first. She felt a little odd that Tiara is asking her to help her though all this. she looked down at the book, then back up to Applebloom. she had that same expression, those same eyes, she had that night last week. Applejack taught her to help a friend in need and that's what she's going to do. "Okay, Tiara. i'll help."

Tiara happily smiled then suddenly hugged her. "Oh, Thank You, Applebloom!" Applebloom nervously chuckled and blushed out of Embarrassment. Zim used this is a opportunity to make a joke. he started making 'Erotic' music with his mouth.

"Bow binka bow ke bow. ke pe ko po ke po ke po."

both Mares gave him a soul look, making him stop.

Feeling hungry for lunch and wanting to get out of the house, Tiara and Applebloom left for the markets to get something to eat. Since Tiara's father was filthy rich, she can pay for just about anything. having never done it before, Applebloom went and pigged out at one of the coolest restaurants in town.

"Wow. you were... really hungry." Tiara chuckled, looking at the piles of plates in front of her.

Applebloom sat back and burped, having never felt that full in years. "Sorry. i never got the chance to pig out before. I can see why some Stallions or Mares are fat." she picked her teeth and burped again. "and it shouldn't have been 'all you can eat'.

Tiara chuckled again. Since she was eating for two now, Tiara had a big plate as well, but it wasn't as big as Applebloom's shmorgasboard. she felt good for now and put down her fork. "Excuse me. waiter." The Gryphon waiter heard her and came over. "Can i get something to put this in to go?"

"Certainly. I'll be right back with that and the bill." he said with a french accent and flew off.

Applebloom got off her chair and sighed. "ZIm is gonna be angry when he finds out we had a shmorgasboard."

"yeah. he's gonna be upset. and he can't say i didn't invite him."

"no he can't." The waiter returned with a box for Tiara's leftovers and the bill. "well, i'm gonna wait outside." Applebloom said, grabbing her saddle-bags and almost burping again. "i gotta work off that Grapefruit Steak." Applebloom left, leaving Tiara with the bill.

normally, she would ask for her companion to half-pay the bill but Tiara made a exception. Applebloom was special that way.

Applebloom exited the restaurant and waited out front. she reached into her saddle-bags and pulled out the book from before. "How To Be A Father..." she still can't get over the bad title. "well... if me and Zim are going to help her, we may as well study up." she opened it up and began to look at it.

"..... hah hah hah. that Mare was so easy, it was hardly worth my time."

Applebloom looked up at the voice and saw a Gryphon boasting to a group of friends. He looked like every other Gryphon she came across; brown and yellow and short tempered. but she noticed a oddity on his fur; a mark on his left shoulder that looks like... "a Green Star." Applebloom slammed the book shut and got angry.

This must be the Gryphon who knocked Tiara up. OH, Applebloom has a bone to pick with him. She headed over, ready to pound his head in. "Hey! Green Star!" She yelled.

That shout made the Gryphon to look her way. being the pig he is, he got naughty thoughts instantly. "Well, Well, Well... what have we hear? a new girl, and a country one at that."

"Keep it between your legs, you pig!"

Green Star lightly chuckled. "my my. what a mouth. i'm gonna enjoy watching you use it."

Applebloom got steamed. "Are you even listening?! i said you are horrid Gryphon."

Green Star scoffed. "who told you that? just who are you, anyway?"

Tiara walked out of the restaurant, box of leftovers on her back. she noticed Applebloom across the street... and Green Star. Fearing the worst, she headed over.

"My Name is Applebloom and i'm Diamond Tiara's friend!"

Green Star and his friends stood there for a moment, then burst out laughing. "HAHAHAHAHA! HAhahahahaha! YOU? a friend with that slut? oh, that's funny!"

"Slut?" now Applebloom was getting really steamed. "She is not a slut! you just spread that rumor around after you knocked her up and broke up with her!"

"oh Tiara's pregnant? guess all that time lying down on a bed finally caught up to her." he said in a joking manner. Applebloom couldn't believe this. this guy is a complete monster. Tiara arrived, but at the worst possible time. "oh, here's the Whore of Trottingham now."

"Shut it, Green Star." Tiara said though her teeth.

"um... how about NO?" Green Star said with intimidation. "so i heard you're pregnant. With my kid. i'm not sure if i want my kid to be raised by a useless pony such as you."

"I wouldn't be in this situation if it wasn't for you!" Tiara yelled. "I wasn't the one eager to get into bed. and that Black Eye and that trip to the lake? that was all you, you womanizer!"

in all this time, Green Star's friends never heard Tiara's side of the story. they always considered his to be true. "that true, Star?" a female Changeling asked.

"yeah. so what?" The Gryphon flapped his and flew behind Tiara, hovering on his back. "but this Mare is useless. nobody cares what happens to her."

Applebloom stepped in between them. "I do! and so does my cousin ZIm."

Green Star angrily frowned. "You know, i think Tiara spoke about you when we went out. Yeah, Yeah. she mentioned that you were her punching bag; the center of her 'attacks'. Pyah. you're helping her because you feel sorry!"

"yeah. i am! but i'm also her friend and i'm not gonna let some punk who thinks he's high and mighty."

Green Star got very angry. "Shut It. Country Girl!"

Applebloom got equally angry. "Make Me, Lizard Lips!"

Tiara got between them. "Stop this!"

the Gryphon snarled. "You stay out of this!" Green Star kicked Tiara down to the ground.

Applebloom angrily snarled then punched him in the face, making him fall to the ground. "Don't you dare do that to the mother of your child! you touch her again, i'll do far worse then punch you!"

Green Star wiped blood from his mouth and snarled. "You're gonna pay for this, you country brat." the Gryphon took to the air. "No one does that to me and gets away with it!" He flew out of view and, Applebloom hopes, out of their lives.

Once he was gone, Applebloom helped Tiara up. "you okay?"

"yeah. i'm used to it." sad thing is that it's true.

Tiara shook it off and started brushing her shoulders off when a sudden pain hit her in the stomach, causing her to bend ofer and hold it. Applebloom, who was getting Tiara's leftovers, saw her hold her stomach, stopped what she was doing, and ran over to her.

"Tiara! you okay?"

"i... i don't..." another pain hit her, this one more intense.

Applebloom is afraid that that Gryphon did something bad. she helped Tiara up off the ground. "Come on. we got to get you to the hospital."

Author's Note

ruh-roh.

Complications

This is not good. This is really not good.

After that run-in with Green Star, who had beat down Tiara despite knowing the fact she's pregnant with his child, Tiara started experiencing some horrible pains, which Green Star didn't care for. Applebloom imminently took her to the hospital and contacted Zim and informed him what happened.

that was 2 hours ago. and Applebloom had gotten no more information about it. She's very worried about Tiara and her baby. So many things could've gone wrong and she's really worried about it.

Applebloom paced back and forth in the main lobby, waiting for any information about Tiara. Her cousin ZIm is there with her and equally worried. He may have only known her for a few days but he grew to like that little gal.

"Calm down, Applebloom. you're gonna leave a hole in the floor."

"how can i calm down? my friend is in there, with her unborn baby probably dead. or worse! Faust, i can't believe that guy! He just beat down the mare carrying his child because he wanted to! The next time i run into Green Star, he's toast!" and she meant it. if she sees that heartless Gryphon again, she's gonna make him pay. Hell, she might kill him if he hurt the baby.

"i know how you feel. My friend, the one who was pregnant, was assualted and had her saddle-bags and everything in them taken. She had her legs crippled and the baby got a concussion in the womb. Furious, me and her Boyfriend went out and beat the guy who did it until he was nothing but a pulpy mass."

That's a horrid story and Applebloom is regretting hearing it. "what happened to your friend? and her baby?"

"She's currently in a wheelchair and the baby turned 10 last month. He was born with a speech impediment; stammers all the time. we're all just glad it wasn't anything worse."

"Agreed. But Tiara... Faust, her baby is barely 3 weeks in and already, it's life is getting complicated." Applebloom sighed and finally sat down. "i'm just worried about her. Tiara may have been a bully to me way back when but even I wouldn't do anything like this."

The doors to the lobby opened and a light-brown Stallion with brushed back black hair walked in. he had winkles and lines on his face. he wore a business suit which had a money sign on his tie. on his flank were 3 money bags. Applebloom recognized him instantly. it was Tiara's father.

"Filthy Rich." she said, getting up.

He noticed the mare but didn't recognize her at first. "Who are you?"

"un... i'm... Applebloom, Mr. Rich. from Ponyville? Granny Smiths granddaughter?"

now he remembered. "OH! Applebloom. I hardly recognized you without that bow in your hair. how is your dear Granny?"

This was always hard to talk about. "She... died. 5 years ago. natural causes."

"Oh." he knew her well. Heck, most of time, he thought she was his mother as well. "well, my condolences." he then changed the subject to the manner at hand. "How's Tiara?"

Applebloom sighed. "I don't know. and it's been 2 hours. i'm really worried about her and her kid."

"Yes. i heard what Green Day had pulled back there. He really kicked her?"

"Hard. and in the stomach." Applebloom sighed again. "I don't want to think that the little tyke died before even getting a chance to live."

"I agree. i may have hated the idea of my 22-year old daughter becoming a mother, but i wouldn't force her to abort it. i gave her the option but she didn't take it. Now, though... it looks like Green Day made the choice for her."

Applebloom's blood boiled at the mention of his name. "Green Star... why is he such a mean man? what would possess him to do this to the Mare that's carrying his child?"

Filthy Rich sat down, not wanting to stand anymore. "well... when your Gryphon mother is abusive and your Pony father just let it happens... you tend to come out of it a mean man."

Just after that, the nurse came out, carrying Tiara's charts. Instantly, Applebloom and Filthy Rich went to him. "Is she okay?" they both asked.

"she's awake and she's going fine. Mr. Green Star's assault didn't harm the baby; it's doing fine, from what we can tell." the 3 of them breathed a collective sigh of relief. "However..." Oh, no. there's a 'However'. and they're never good. "The assault did rupture her right kidney. it's completely destroyed beyond repair. and she already gave her left one for a friend of hers a few years ago, a... Ms. Silver Spoons, who lost both kidneys during a drinking contest, according to her medical records."

"w-what are you saying?"

The nurse sighed in defeat. He hates this part of the job. "If Tiara doesn't get a kidney in 48 hours, she and the baby will die."

all the life seemed to drain from Applebloom's face. Tiara... dead? no. no no no. no way she's going to let that happen. "No!" she exclaimed. "I am not going to let Tiara die! Use my kidneys. i got both so it's good! right?"

"you'd have to be a match. for us to know that, we'd have to run tests that would cut this very close."

"Do it!" Filthy Rich demanded. "I am not going to let my daughter die."

"un.... of course..." the nurse turned to leave but stopped in mid-way. "oh. and Tiara is ready for visitors." Filthy Rich started to enter but the nurse stopped him. "un... she just wants Ms. Applebloom."

Applebloom is surprised to hear that. Just her?

Applebloom knocked on the door and entered Tiara's room. "Hey, Tiara."

The Mare looked to the door and smiled. "Applebloom. you have no idea how happy i am you're here."

Applebloom lightly chuckled. she must be hopped up on the I.V. "How are you feeling?" she asked as she walked over to her injured friend.

"a bit groggy but i'll live..." as soon as she said that, Applebloom felt bad inside. and it showed on her face for Tiara to see. "Applebloom?"

Faust, she hates this. "um... Tiara... i have some bad news."

Tiara gasped, fearing that her worst fear passed. "Oh, no. no, don't tell me Green Star killed the baby."

"No no no. the baby is fine... at least for 48 hours."

Now, Tiara is confused. "48 hours?"

Applebloom groaned as she rubbed her eyes. she really hates this. "Tiara... when Green Star hit you, he ruptured your kidney. and if you don't get a doner... both you and the baby will die."

Tiara gasped. Die? Her? she really can't believe this. she refuses to believe this. "no. no no no. i refuse to die. it's not my time to die yet!"

"We know. that's why your father is having them hunt for a doner. i also put up my blood to see if i'm a match. Zim too. we're gonna do all we can to help you."

Tiara sure hopes so. she doesn't want to die. and she doesn't want her baby to die. "When did my life become so difficult? when did this happen to me?" She laid back and silently cried. "when did my life become such a drama fest?"

Applebloom didn't know how to answer. or even when. she had no clue how this all happened either.

Defeated, Applebloom returned home, hoping she was a match. she doesn't want Tiara to die. she may have been mean when they were fillies but Applebloom never considered killing her. and Green Star is forcing this on her. she had no clue what to do but to wait.

"Applejack... what do i do...? i want to help... but i don't know how..."

Hope

Useless.

Completely and Utterly Useless.

That's how Applebloom is feeling. Tiara has been beat down by her ex Green Day and is put into the hospital. The baby was fine... for 48 hours. the beatdown had ruptured Tiara's remaining kidney; she gave the other one to Silver Spoon when she had a bit too much to drink a few years ago. and unless Tiara gets another one in 48 hours, both she and the baby will die.

that was 42 hours ago.

Not only doe she feel completely useless, Applebloom is feeling a deep sense of dread. She was only on Tiara's good side for less then a week; not counting all those years of bullying, and she's dying. she's so dreadful, she couldn't sleep or eat. and waiting to see if she is compatible to give Tiara a kidney is taking forever.

"Come on, Applebloom. you have to eat something." Zim insisted. he hates seeing her like this.

"i'm not hungry." she muttered.

Zim scowled then walked over to her, carrying a plate of dandelion sandwiches. "Come on. not eating isn't going to help her."

"I said i'm not hungry!" Applebloom snapped. she kicked the plate out of Zim's hooves, sending it and it's contents spilling to the ground. Zim stood there, staring at her in shock. Applebloom saw what she did and sat back down. "sorry, Zim. i'm just... on edge." Zim didn't say anything as he started picking the stuff up. "i mean... i finally got Tiara to be nice to me, and she's dying. and not just her, her unborn child as well. and i can't help. what am i supposed to do?"

Zim got up with the plate. "Hope," is all he said as he went back into the kitchen.

Hope? Hope isn't going to help them at all. Someone in her life is dying and she can't do a single Fucking thing about it. she can't deal with this. she needs some air.

the last sound Zim heard Applebloom make was her slamming the door as she went out.

Tiara felt herself gradually getting worse as the hours waned on. now, she's starting to cough up blood.

her hospital room door knocked and Applebloom walked in. "Hey, Tiara." she softly said as she walked in.

Tiara turned her head to Applebloom slowly and smiled. "hey, Applebloom." she weakly said.

Applebloom already knew the answer but she had to ask. "How are you feeling?"

Tiara looked up to the ceiling and blinked. her blinked lasted a lot longer then Tiara expected. "like hell." she looked back to Applebloom. "any luck finding me a kidney?" Applebloom didn't say anything and looked away. that gave Tiara her answer. "That bad, huh?"

"they're still testing and searching. but... but it's been 42 hours. i don't think that they'll.... they'll..." Applebloom couldn't say anything. this was too hard for her. "Tiara... i don't want you to die."Tiara saw tears forming in Applebloom's eyes. She saw those multiple times before but that was when she was bullying her. now... they were tears of worry and sorrow. for her.

"I don't want to die either." Tiara emotionally said. she placed a hoof on her belly and remembered the life she had growing inside her. "and i don't want him to die."

The baby... all this happened because of it. not even Twilight's kid Starlight caused this much trouble, and Twi was clinically depressed for a few days. this makes what Tiara was going to ask much more difficult.

"Applebloom... it's clearly obvious that i'm not going to live..."

"Don't say that!" Applebloom exclaimed. "You are not going to die! i won't let you!"

even with her on death's door, Applebloom wasn't giving up. she was a good choice. "let me finish..." she took a deep breath and coughed. "if... if i happen do die... can you... can you raise Silver Crown for me?"

Silver Crown? she must mean the baby. "raise him? he's not even born yet." oh, wait a tick. "wait. you mean be a surrogate?" Tiara nodded as best she could. Applebloom couldn't believe what Tiara just said. "Tiara... you want me to raise the baby? Inside of me and when it's a foal?" Tiara didn't answer; she was too weak at that point. Applebloom got up and paced for a few seconds. "hew. you... you actually want me to do this?"

"You're the only one i would trust with something like this."

"b-b-but you're asking me to give up my life for the little guy."

"You don't have to keep him. you can always put him up for adoption."

"b-b-but still..." Applebloom moved her hooves though her hair, blowing out air while she thought. Tiara is asking her to give up a lot and she's not sure how to reply.

"you don't have to do it; i'm not forcing you to do it. i'm just asking..."

but with her predicament, she should as well force her. "i... i need to think about this." she went out the door without saying another word.

Applebloom relocated to a bridge over a stream in the park. it was quiet and out of the way; perfect place for her to think. She still finds it hard to believe, what Tiara asked for her to do. be the childs surrogate mother in case Tiara dies? w-why would she ask something like that? this wouldn't be happening if it weren't for that damn Gryphon.

"Argh!" she slammed her hooves into the guardrail. she picked up a stick and growled. "Why is this so fucking hard!?!" she chucked the stick into the river. it hit and made quite a splash. Applebloom grunted and rested her head on the rail as the ripples reached her. "Applejack... what do i do?"

the ripples cleared, showing a unknown pony right beside her. at least for a moment. Applebloom looked down at the reflection, thinking she was seeing things.

"Good Afternoon, Applebloom."

she wasn't seeing things. Applebloom looked to her left and saw that it was indeed real. "Princess Celestia."

"It's been a while, hasn't it?" Celestia asked with a smile.

"indeed it has. w-what are you doing here?"

"i'm stopping by on the way to Baltimare. there's been a increase in crime up there and the leader of the officers there asked for my help."

help... that's something she desperately needs. "Help... wish we had a lot of that right now."

Celestia raised a eyebrow in confusion. "how so?"

Applebloom went back to the rail and crossed her hooves over it. "there's been some trouble..."

"What kind of trouble?" the princess asked as she walked over, pulling the same pose as her.

"well.... you remember Diamond Tiara, right?"

"i think you mentioned her a few times. why?"

"Well, she lives here and is now the same age as me. but she had a tough time. still is." Applebloom sighed. "she's... currently in the hospital, dying from a lack of kidneys. her ex-boyfriend, who is the MEANEST gryphon you'll ever meet, beat her down and ruptured one. the other, she gave to her friend who lost hers during a drinking binge. she's dying and has 4 hours left for a kidney transplant. problem is, they aren't finding a match."

"Oh." Celestia sadly said.

"and that's not the worst of it. Tiara's pregnant with the Gryphon's kid. and if she dies, she wants me to be the surrogate."

Celestia gasped. "oh dear." a moment fell between them as the princess thought. "Well... are you?"

"Am i what, going to be the surrogate if she dies?" Celestia nodded. "w-what do you want me to do? i'm not old enough to be someone's mother, real or otherwise. but i don't want to let Tiara down. i just... i just don't know what to do."

Celestia pondered for a moment. she was never in this kind of situation, neither was Luna or Cadence. she doesn't know what to do here. "well... i may not have experience with this kind of predicament, but i can always count on one thing to help me though something like this." Applebloom looked up to her with a mixture of sadness and hope in her eyes. "i just follow my heart."

not the response she wanted. "Your heart?"

"yes. no matter what the problem was, my heart never steered me wrong. it always gave me the right answer."

Applebloom looked away. "i... i don't know. she's asking me too much."

"Applebloom... listen to your heart. what is it telling you?"

Applebloom looked down to her chest, wondering it herself. she held her hoof over it and closed her eyes. "it... it's telling me..." she opened her eyes, already knowing the answer. "it's telling me to help her."

Celestia nodded and smiled. Applebloom smiled with her. "Tiara..." she closed her eyes and held her heart. her mouth slightly moved into a smile.

"APPLEBLOOM!!!"

Applebloom opened her eyes and looked back to see Zim running up to her. he reached her and panted. "Zim. what's going on?"

Zim panted, regaining his strength. "It's Tiara. they think they found a match."

Applebloom instantly ran back to the hospital and into Tiara's room where Filthy Rich and her doctor was with her. Tiara still had 4 hours left so there's still hope.

"You said you got a match?" she asked, filled with hope.

"Indeed we do. we ran the tests and, unfortunately, neither you or Filthy Rich are compatable."

Rich and Applebloom looked at each other. he called them here to tell them that? "But there is someone among you who is?"

"Who?" all 3 of them asked.

"Me." Zim said, walking in. "i'm compatable. and you... you are lucky i'm such a nice guy."

"Zim..." Applebloom happily gasped. She and Tiara looked at each other, both of them happy about this. "You do this and i will owe you BIG time!"

"i know." Zim said with a smirk.

the doctor interrupted. "if we do the surgery now, we should finish with half an hour to spare."

"Do it!" all 4 of them said.

Applebloom hugged her cousin. "Thank you so much, Zim! thank you so very, very much!"

Zim smiled and hugged her back. "anything for family."

Applebloom broke the hug and smiled. Diamond Tiara's bed was grabbed by a couple or orderly's and was pushed out to the operating room. "Hold on." Applebloom said. she headed over to Tiara. "Tiara. just in case this fails... the answer to your questions is yes."

Tiara gasped then smiled with tear-filled eyes. "Thanks, Applebloom." she leaned up and kissed her on the cheek, surprising Applebloom and Filthy Rich. once that was done, the orderly's wheeled her out.

Applebloom stood there, stunned for a moment, as Zim walked up next to her. "Yes to what?"

Applebloom touched where Tiara kissed her and smiled. "it's... it's nothing. i think you better go get prepared."

"Right." Zil said. "Remember, you own me."

"I know." Applebloom replied.

Zim walked out, waving good-bye for the day. Filthy Rich walked up next to Applebloom. "She asked you to be the surrogate if she dies, didn't she?"

he knows? "y-yes sir."

Filthy looked to her. "You care about her, don't you?"

"of course i do. she's my friend. we may have had a rocky start when we were fillies, but she's still my friend though and though."

Rich stood there, not saying a word. "i see..." a awkward silence fell over them. "well, i thank you for helping my daughter when i couldn't. it's about time something good happened to her in this city."

"yeah." Applebloom softly replied.

"there must be something i can do to repay you."

"it's okay, Mr. Rich. i don't need anything."

"are you sure? i am the secretary of banks in this town. i have some pull. is there anything at all you need?"

Secretary of Banks? hmmm... "well... there is one thing."

She's Alive!

Applebloom silently snored in Diamond Tiara's hospital room, finally able to get some rest for the first time in 45 hours. and she needed it. Tiara and her baby almost dying thanks to no kidneys... it took a toll on all of them. and yet, Green Day never showed the most remote kind of remorse for putting her in there. how cold-hearted is he?

As far as Applebloom knows, Tiara is still in surgery with Applebloom's cousin Zim. He's the only one who was a match, and she hasn't gotten word on what happened. so, Applebloom did the only thing she could: sleep. and hoping that her friends would come out of this alive.

"Applebloom.... Applebloom...."

the sweet and almost tantalizing voice reached Applebloom's ears, causing them to twitch. she stirred and opened her eyes to see a familiar face over her.

"Waky waky, Applebloom." Tiara said, trying to coerce her out of dreamland.

"4 more minutes, Tiara." Applebloom muttered before going back to sleep. Tiara's mouth pursed to the side, a bit peeved that Applebloom is still sleeping. Applebloom snapped her eyes open. "Tiara?!" she got up and looked at the smiling mare with a big smile of her own. "TIARA!" she jumped onto Tiara's bed and hugged her tight. "You're okay!"

"Ow ow ow ow ow!"

when she said that, Applebloom instantly let go. she looked down at Tiara's abdomen and saw a scar on the side. that must be where the Kidney is. But that product is far in the back of Applebloom's mind. Tiara's okay, that's what's first and foremost in hers.

"I can't tell you how happy i am to see you're alive!" Applebloom said with cheer.

"thank Zim. if it wasn't for him, i would be dead." Tiara said, feeling as spunky as ever.

"i will when i see him. first off, how's the baby?"

"it's fine. it's fine." Tiara touched her stomach. "they were able to avoid it and focus just on the kidneys. in 10 months, it'll be as vibrant as any normal foal." Applebloom breathed a sigh of relief. Thank goodness; She was worried that this would end with the baby dying. Thank goodness that didn't happen. "by the way... thanks."

Thanks? "for what?"

"for agreeing to be Silver Crown's surrogate mother in case i died. it really boosted my spirits and i needed it."

Applebloom smiled. "Of course. that's what friends are for." Applebloom got off the bed and went to the window to open up the curtains. "but... to be honest, i was having second thoughts about it."

"Second thoughts?"

Applebloom scratched her neck. "I... i wasn't exactly keen on being a mother, even if it was for a friend. I was just... just not ready." Tiara looked down at her stomach. she knows the feeling well. she's not prepared to become a mother either. "i was... i was afraid."

"What changed your mind?"

Applebloom closed her eyes and smiled. "Celestia."

"The Princess?!"

"Yeah. Me and her had a talk while she was passing though and... and she taught me that i should follow my heart. and my heart told me to help you. that's why i agreed to do it."

"i see..." Tiara glanced away from her for a moment. "Well... what's past is past."

Applebloom sighed. That part is surprisingly harder then she thought. she had to change the subject. "So... Silver Crown?"

Tiara chuckled. "Yeah. it's a bit of a family tradition to be named after a gem and a piece of jewelry. My grandmother's name was Sapphire Bracelet, my mom is Emerald Brooch. I'm Diamond Tiara..."

"I get it, i get it." Applebloom laughed. "but Silver Crown?"

"What? Silver's my favorite color. and Crowns are awesome; just look at Twilight and her Element of Harmony."

"Argument made. Argument made." Applebloom yawned again. "Man i'm tired. and hungry. how long was i out?"

"2 days. you must not have slept in a long while. Dad said you never left my side."

"of course i didn't. i couldn't sleep knowing you were dying. i also couldn't eat... i was just so worried."

She was worried that much about her? Tiara felt her heart warm up. "Oh. well, when lunch comes, i'll be sure to give you the jello."

"Thanks. i think." Applebloom yawned again and sat down in a chair. "Where's Zim?"

"He already went home. he heals fast."

"well, he is part Diamond Dog."

if Tiara had a drink, she'd be spitting it up. "Part Diamond Dog?!?"

"yep. his dad. He and his mother met 34 years ago and ended up having him. Zim told me they died 14 years ago in a accident. During the Winter War."

"i heard about that. but i don't remember there being any Changelings in Trottingham. of course, me and Dad were on vacation in Mareami at the time and came back only to see the damage; and Changelings running around."

"be glad you weren't around. it was deadly and messy."

"again, i heard. but back to the subject at hand, Part Diamond Dog? huh. he doesn't act it."

"well, he's learned to keep the creepiness on the down-low. Did wonders for his libido, from what i heard." Tiara whistled out of amazement. Applebloom yawned again, her eyes getting heavy.

"Applebloom... have you ever been in love?" that snapped her awake.

"Wh-what?"

"Have you ever been in love? has there been someone who you wanted to spend the rest of your life with?"

that question came completely out of nowhere and left her unprepared. "un... well... i had some crushed on a few ponies but they never went anywhere. why do you ask?"

"well... Green Star was the first i loved, but he turned out to be a horrible creature." no argument from Applebloom. "and... i'm worried that if i love someone again, my heart will break again. i'm asking you if you have any advice if i get into this mess again."

"un... i... i don't know what to tell you. i never fell in love with anypony. Prom- went alone. Homecoming Dance- alone again. i don't know if there are good ways or bad ways to fall in love. you just have to hope that whatever you do and whatever comes will be enough."

"Wow. that's a bit profound. did you make that up on your own?"

Applebloom shook her head. "Cadence. she had a chat with my niece Peppy before i left about this."

Tiara lightly chuckled. Applebloom knows a lot of ponies in high places. guess that's revenge for calling her a blank flank. she was about to catch some shut eye when, "Tiara?"

"yeah?"

"just so you know... i'm here to help you, no matter what."

Tiara smiled at her. "i know, Applebloom. and thanks. i really appreciate that."

Applebloom lightly snored in her chair. Tiara softly slept in her bed with a smile, knowing Applebloom will be there for her. the door to her hospital room opened and her father, Filthy Rich, walked in. he headed over to the bed and lightly tapped her on the shoulder.

"Tiara?"

Tiara stirred and slowly opened her eyes. "Dad?"

"hey, little gal. how you feeling?"

"Fine. and the baby is fine too."

"Thank goodness. i was so worried." he heard the light snoring and looked to Applebloom. "you know, she never gave up on you."

"i know. she couldn't eat, couldn't sleep." she looked to her sleeping friend. "She was worried sick about me."

"yes. i know. she told me that her heart was close to breaking."

heart close to breaking? "Applebloom never mentioned that."

"well, that's what she said." Rich looked to Applebloom again. his concerned face changed to one of anger. "i have a feeling she's in love with you."

Tiara scoffed. "In love? with me? we're just friends dad."

"Still... you know how i feel about Filly-Foolers, Tiara. and if she turns out to be one, i won't be responsible for what happens." Rich walked out, leaving Tiara to soak that in.

"Dad. Applebloom's not in love with me..." Tiara looked to her again. Applebloom muttered in her sleep and flipped over. "...at least... i don't think she is."

Tiara suddenly felt her heart go aflutter. she held her chest and sighed. "and... am i...?"

Author's Note

uh-oh. we're getting close to the romance part of the story. least a few more chapters till that.

Hiding True Feelings

3 months passed since the little scare with Tiara almost dying. thanks to Zim, who gave her the kidney necessary to let her live, she's back to being her old plucky self. Speaking of plucky, her belly also got bigger; 4 months pregnant bigger. And it turns out Zim is one of those weirdos that find pregnancy sexy.

Weirdo.

True to Tiara's word, the baby is perfectly fine and growing strong; and she should know, she's the mother. Speaking of parents, Green Star hasn't been seen since that little incident that put Tiara in the hospital to begin with. He doesn't care what happens to his own kid; what a asshole.

With Zim's permission, Applebloom turned a empty room in their house into a guest room for Tiara to use anytime she wants. she only used it twice, both because she was sad; sad that she always gets losers and big meanies. she's gotten a few dates in those 3 months and they all turned out to be as bad as Green Star. Well, not as abusive, but still mean.

Applebloom, on the other hand, has gotten no dates since her arrival. Maybe it's because she's too picky or nobody in town looks cute in her eyes. Zim and Tiara tried to set her up with a blind-date but she said no. During those 3 months, Applebloom had been sneaking off with her pet Crystal Dragon Helios and she never says where she's going or what she's doing. and with Helios, they can't follow her as he flies out of view faster then Dash. Where is she going?

Well, Tiara should find out tonight. Applebloom invited her over for a Slumber Party and Tiara asked if she could bring a few friends. After that little incident with Green Star, her friends listened to her side of the story and felt sympathetic to her.

She was able to invite them all: High Rise, a Pegasus Mare who wants to be as fast as her idol Rainbow Dash (won't she be surprised that Applebloom is friends with her), Loose Cannon, a Unicorn Stallion who's always running his mouth off, Blade, a Changeling Mare who houses a secret crush on the next guy, Gentle Breeze, a Dragon/Pony hybrid (with big emphasis on the Dragon part) who's surprisingly gentle for a big guy, and Snowdrop, a blind Pegasus Mare who you should all know well. Of Course, Zim is going to be there. it's his house, after all.

When the moon rose, the mares were already in their P.J.s and ready for the movie. the guys were getting the snacks ready. While doing so, they had a little game of truth or dare.

"Truth or Dare?" Tiara asked Blade.

"Dare. no no. Truth. Truth."

"heh heh heh. Tell me, who do you have the biggest crush for?"

the Changeling's face turned red and she covered it. "n-no. you don't need to know that."

"You have to. it's the truth."

"Spill!" the other mares insisted.

She really didn't want to say this. "Okay... hmmm...." she gulped and squeaked. "Gentle Breeze."

High Rise spit out her drink. "Breeze? the Dragon-Pony?"

"what's wrong with that, Rise?" Applebloom asked. "my friend's sister married a Dragon and their friend is married to a Changeling."

"I'm not saying i'm grossed out. just surprised. and curious why."

Blade scratched her cheek. "well... he's kind, sweet, gentle... very different from how dragons normally behave."

"Same as my friends sister." A.P. commented before drinking her drink though a straw.

"Plus... i may have a thing for dragons."

"As does..."

"Your friends sister, we know!" everyone exclaimed in the same monotone.

Blade rolled her eyes. "Okay. Snowdrop. Truth or Dare?"

"hmm... truth."

"well, keep in mind this is just out of curiosity, but... what's it like... being blind?"

that question caught her off guard and the men were able to hear that, stopped what they were doing, and leaned out to listen. The reason she was surprised was because she's surprised it took that long for someone to ask.

"Well... it's no fun and games. Not being able to see anything; no colors and no faces... it's a bit... a bit down-putting."

"Well, you don't seem to have any trouble with it. i've never seen you run into anything or trip." High Rise said.

"Yes, well, my mom wrote to the Princess', asking them to help cure my blindness. Luna came and couldn't cure it. so, instead, she magically enhanced them."

"Magically enhanced?" everyone asked.

"yeah. i can't see anything but i can see the outlines of just about anything. for example, i can see that Tiara is hugging a pillow close." she was. "And i can see the guys peeking out of the kitchen!" The men went back in.

"Speaking of the men, you guys almost done with the snacks? we're getting a bit peckish." Applebloom called.

"Yep. we're done." Breeze said as he was the first one out, carrying most of the snacks in his hands. Zim and Cannon followed after him. "Please tell me you picked up the movie."

"i picked up the entire Trilogy." Applebloom reached into a nearby bag and pulled out 3 cases for DVD's. "Prince Silver Saddle and his Adventures though Time with his Companion, Sunset Shimmer."

"Quite a mouthful." Tiara commented, still holding the pillow.

"That's why they usually call them by their surnames; Part 1: To The Sky, Part 2: Draconiqi Troubles, and Part 3: At World's End. figured we'd start with part 1 and work our way to the end."

"Well, put it in already. i love the TV show they based the movies on and i haven't seen the movies yet." Blade said, getting comfy. Applebloom got up and went to the TV to put the movie in.

"but first, one last question." Snowdrop said. The men groaned. "Tiara. truth or dare?"

"hmm.... Truth."

"as Blade was curious about blindness, i'm curious about this; what's it like being pregnant?" OH, that was a good one. if any of the other mares get pregnant, they'll want to know what to except. and for the guys... well, they'll never experience it. better to get a reference.

Tiara was expecting this to come. "well.... best way i could describe is... you know the feeling you get when you're, like, super nervous about something; butterflies in your stomach?" they all nodded. "Well, it's like that. except it grows bigger and bigger and bigger. and in a couple more months, it's gonna start kicking."

"any symptoms or anything. you know; anything life threatening?"

"except for that incident with Green Star, no."

Applebloom hit the close button and put the DVD in. "Okay. movie is ready to go. we're golden."

5-and-a-half hours and 3 movies later, the trilogy got to the part where Silver Saddle and Sunset Shimmer are about to have their first kiss. The mares bit their hooves, eagerly awaiting this moment. this was the first time any of them saw Part 3 and were pretty emotional and on edge. The men just wanted this to end.

{"Trust me, Shimmer. i would never, ever betray you. You are the sun in my eyes that has set upon my heart. i love you..."

Shimmers eyes grew glassy due to the excess of tears forming in it. she began to softly cry as she smiled. "I love you too... Prince Silver Saddle."

finally, after what felt like an eternity, the two of them finally kissed under the setting sun.}

the movie ended and the Mares were wiping away tears. "Best... Ending... Ever..." Tiara and Rise softly cried. Blade wiped away her tears to see Breeze holding her hoof. he didn't seem to notice. eh, close enough, she decided.

"That was a'ight." Zim cold-heartingly said.

"WHAT!?!" Snowdrop exclaimed. "But it was so beautiful, so romantic."

Zim shrugged. "Guess i'm not a romance kind of stallion."

Steam out of the blind Pegasus ears as she huffed in anger. How cold hearted. "You must be a HUGE hit with the ladies." She said sarcastically. "I bet you never managed to score at least one date."

Zim scoffed. "I got dates. okay. just... never got a second one."

"Gee... i can't help but wonder why." Snowdrop sarcastically said. "and i think i know why you always drive them off."

that sounds like a challenge. "You do, do you?" the Pegasus nodded. "okay." Zim got up and looked her right in the face. "You. Me. Next week at the Alfalfa Mustafa. i'll show you how i do my dates and you'll see why i hate romance."

"Fine with me."

the other Mares and Stallions didn't get between them. they knew this would be a deadly fight if someone got in the middle of it.

"i have to go to the bathroom." Tiara said as she got up. "Silver Crown thinks my bladder is a hacky sack." she got up and took a step when she slipped and fell backwards. Applebloom quickly got up and caught her. she didn't expect how heavy she'd be due to the baby and she fell down with her.

"You guys okay?" Cannon asked.

"Ow..." both mares whined. they rubbed their heads, both hurting from their drop. they opened their eyes to see their mouths just inches from each other.

"OOH!" The mares all went.

Both Tiara and Applebloom stammered and turned a bright red. "un... eh... un... uhm..."

"Un... don't you need to go to the bathroom, Tiara?" Rise asked.

she completely forgot about that. "Oh. that's right." she quickly got up and headed upstairs. She's going to think of some excuse, and the Mares aren't going to let her. they followed up after her, not going to give her a chance to think of one.

Applebloom remained where she was, shocked that she and Tiara's mouths were so close to touching. Breeze snapped his fingers in front of her, snapping her out of her trance. "wa--wha..."

"You okay, Appleboom?" Cannon asked.

"Un... yeah."

"you sure? your face is as red as a strawberry."

"i-it is?"

"You can't deny it, Tiara. we saw how red your face got." Blade said. they were outside the bathroom to give her privacy but they had the door open just a tad.

"b-b-but i just like her as a friend. the blushing was just... was just out of nowhere, that's all."

"Liar." Snowdrop said. "my ears are fine-tuned to hear for the slightest hint of differences in people's voices, and i hear lust in yours. plus, one of the enhancements Luna didn't seem to have noticed to have put in is that i can see changes it people's Aura's whenever they're sick or emotionally distant. You.... you're horny. that may be the pregnancy talking but it flared when you fell on Applebloom."

the toilet flushed and Tiara walked out. "What? that's preposterous."

"The nose doesn't lie, Applebloom." Breeze said, tapping his snout with his. "You have the hots for Tiara."

"N-No i don't!" Applebloom got up. "She's so arrogant and pig-headed..."

"Bossy and egotistical..."

"Selfish and mean-spirited..."

the both of them said this: "and just down-right nasty!" but they couldn't lie about some stuff.

"But... Tiara has the best smile... and a nice laugh..."

"Applebloom does have great hair... and her eyes are pretty to look at...."

they can't deny it any longer. they can't tell the other but they can tell their friends.

"Breeze, Cannon, Zim, Don't tell Tiara this, but..."

"Blade, Snowdrop, High Rise, don't tell Applebloom this, but..."

they both said this at the same time.

"But... i think i'm in love with her..."

Author's Note

aww...
also, how many Brony references can you find?

Secret Revealed

Neither of them wanted to say it to each other - they could barely believe it themselves - but it's staring them right in the face; Applebloom and Diamond Tiara are in love with each other. It took them a long time to admit it to themselves. Although, each one has a reason why they're not telling the other.

for Applebloom, it's Tiara, her new friend who's currently 4 months pregnant. not to mention all the mean things she did to her when they were foals themselves. And she had her own things to deal with.

For Tiara, it's mostly her father. He's not a fan of Filly-Foolers and if he finds out his own daughter is one herself, he's liable to go ballistic. Plus, there's all the stuff from Applebloom's side; pregnant, mean when they were foals, having her own problems to deal with.

It's tough as the year is getting closer to Hearts and Hooves day- the Equestrian version of Valentines day. Not to mention that Applebloom has been acting rather mysterious lately, like she's hiding something, and Tiara hadn't gotten a chance to ask what she's hiding.

Applebloom flipped though a book about the internal organs about canines, getting all the intel she could out of it.

Tiara poked her head out of the kitchen and watched her for a moment. Back when they were foals, she was cute with that ribbon in her hair. Now, with her hair hanging loose and the bandanna around her neck, she's... she's hot. Hot enough to make Tiara feverishly blush.

She shook her head and snapped out of it. "right, enough of that." she sighed. she zipped back into the kitchen and sighed with a groan. "Still need to figure out where she's going every Saturday."

"Every Saturday?" Zim asked, eating a bowl of Oat Flakes.

"Yeah. every Saturday at 8:00 A.M., she always goes somewhere with Helios but i don't know where."

Saturday at 8... "Longs as she doesn't interfere with my Transmorphers: Alpha show, i don't really care."

Tiara rolled her eyes. "Men and their robots."

Tiara sighed as she rested her head on her hoof on a table near a StarMane. "I just don't know what to do." she muttered, playing with her drink's straw with her other hoof.

"Here's an idea: Ask her!" High Rise exclaimed. Snowdrop and Blade nodded in confirmation. "Doing stuff like this isn't going to give you answers." the 2 nodded agian.

"I tried. She always said that she was just going out for a walk. But i don't buy it. One time, i saw her come back covered in grease."

"Grease?" the 3 of them all said.

"Yeah. the kind of grease you'd find from machinery. I don't know what she's doing but it's defeanatly not a stroll."

"Why not follow her?" Blade asked.

"I tried. i lost sight of her. Whatever she's hiding, she doesn't want ponies to see."

"Doesn's Zim know?" Snowdrop asked.

"He's being kept in the dark, too." Tiara pulled her drink close. "Just what is she hiding?" she muttered as she took a drink.

"Maybe she's a stripper." Rise's accusation caused Tiara to spit up her drink onto Snowdrop. the Blind Pegasus blinked then wiped the coffee off.

"What?" Tiara gasped. "What makes you think she's a stripper?"

Rise shrugged. "always sneaking out of a Saturday at the same time, being secretive and all that."

"And the grease?" Snowdrop asked.

"Everyone has a weird fetish. Somepony or Gryphon or someone must have a machine turn-on or something."

As much as Tiara hates to admit it, it does explain where Applebloom goes every Saturday. But there must be a reason why, considering it's true.

The next Saturday came and, like clockwork, Applebloom snuck out of her bedroom, careful not to wake up Zim. He came home drunk last night from his 5th date with Snowdrop. First, they went out because he couldn't hold on to a woman and she wanted to see why. why does she keep saying yes?

Applebloom slowly made her way down the stairs, careful not to step on the creaky one. She jumped over that and landed on the floor just two steps down. She went though the front door, softly opening and closing it. Helios, the Crystal Dragon pet of hers, was waiting for her.

"Shh." she went. you'd figure she wouldn't have to do that after all the times she had. Turns out Crystal Dragons aren't the smartest of creatures. Fiercely Loyal, though. He nodded and took to the air, causing a gust of wind that brushed dust over her. Using him as a distraction in case Zim and Tiara got curious and followed was a unfortunate sin but she had to do it. she quickly looked around to make sure nobody was there, then went on her mary way. She was unaware that a certain pink earth pony watched her leave.

"Okay, Applebloom. time to see what you're hiding." Tiara crawled her way out of the bushes and followed not too far behind.

Helios flew though the skies above, keeping a close eye on his master. it saw the building they were heading towards and flew for the roof.

Applebloom yawned and made her way though the Trottingham streets. Once she was certain that Zim wasn't following, she fell into a casual stride.

Tiara poked her head out of a bush, making a nearby couple look at her odd. She tip-toed out of the bush and slowly headed to the former country girl. Applebloom glanced back. Tiara quickly went behind a table, barely big enough to hide her 4-month pregnant belly. Applebloom didn't notice her and went on her way. Tiara poked her head back out and went after her.

Applebloom looked around again, not noticing Tiara who didn't have time to hide, and turned right, heading into a alley.

"why's she heading down there?" Tiara muttered. She learned from experience that heading down alleys aren't good. Hoping Applebloom isn't doing something stupid, she followed after her.

Applebloom reached a crossroads and turned left. From the shops Tiara remembers seeing out front, one of them was... a Adult place. "Oh, no. don't tell me Rise was right." Tiara whined. "The one time i want her to be wrong." She trotted up to the cross-roads and peaked out.

Applebloom opened a door and went into one of the buildings. Tiara doesn't remember which one was the Stripper joint from back here, but it's looking like it's true. Tiara walked down the other alley and headed to the door Applebloom entered. she reached it and pressed her ear to it.

"...okay, What do i do today?..."

Tiara bit her hoof. "Oh, no." She whined. She's not going to have her potential Marefriend be a stripper. And she had all that extra weight so what she has planned will work. She backed up a considerable amount then slammed into the door, breaking into the place. "Applebloom, Stop!"

Applebloom jumped in her skin and looked back to see Tiara behind her. "T-Tiara?!"

the Unicorn was about to berate her when she noticed that the building Applebloom was in... was completely desolate. well, not entirely desolate- there are tables covered with blueprints and paint, wrenches and buckets of loose grease, plastic covers hanging from the ceiling and walls. "What is this?" Tiara asked.

Applebloom groaned. "This is too soon for anyone to find out."

"What are you talking about, Applebloom?"

Applebloom sighed. "I was building this in secret."

"Building what?"

Applebloom grabbed a sign and held it up. "My Veterinary Practice."

Her practice? wait, there's a flaw in her story. "Wait. How did you get the bank loan? i thought they turned you down!"

"Yeah. well... remember when you had to have surgery for your kidneys?" How could she forget. She and Silver Crown almost died. If it wasn't for Zim, she would be 6 feet under. "Well, your Dad was really thankful i did all i could so he offered a reward. I asked for a good reference, which he gave, and i got the loan and the deed to this place." She gestured to the large room which was going to serve as her examination room.

"So... all those Saturdays you were sneaking off, you were coming here?"

"Ditto."

"But why not hire a construction crew?"

Applebloom picked up a hammer. "Applejack taught me that if you want something done right, you have to do it yourself. So... i've been working in secret."

"But why? the rest of us could've helped."

"But i was going to surprise you all with it; let you all in on it at the grand opening. guess that turned out well." She finished sarcastically.

Tiara shook her head and chuckled. That's the mare she's in love with- a complete dunderhead. "Right. *Sigh* if it makes you feel any better, i'll keep this a secret."

"You will?" Applebloom delightfully asked.

"Yeah. why not? you helped me a lot; may as well return the favor."

Applebloom happily gasped then hugged her. "Oh, thank you, Tiara!"

Thought initially caught off guard, Tiara smiled and hugged her back. Applebloom's hair smells like lilies. That's her favorite flower. "Listen. you've been working in secret for 4 months. what do you say we head out to lunch?" Tiara suggested.

"Music to my ears, Tiara." Long as she's with her, she doesn't care where they go or what they do. Now, if only the two of them will spill their true feelings.

Either way, the truth is coming out on Heart's and Hooves.

Love

The day came. the day every single person dreads.

Hearts and Hooves day.

*DUN DUN DUUUUUN*

un.... thank you for that but yeah, it's Hearts and Hooves day, the day where lovers everywhere celebrate their relations. and for single people, it's evil as hell. seeing all those couples together, smooching up a storm; blah.

But... a lot of things are going to change today for a pair of lovers who aren't able to reveal their feelings for each other. and those two lovers are Diamond Tiara and Applebloom.

both of them came to the same decision; that for better or worse, they will reveal their feelings- their love for each other. the only question is How. and When.

"So you're really going to go though with this, aren't you?" Zim asked his cousin.

Applebloom stretched out her eyelid and put in a fake eyelash. since Tiara was a fancy pony, she figures that she should be fancy as well. "Yep. i'm going to do it. i'm going to tell Tiara i love her and... hope for the best." she grabbed a make-up kit and started putting it on.

"and... making yourself look pretty is among that?"

"You know Tiara." she started putting on lipstick. "She's got a ton of makeup and wears it every day. so, i figure that she'll like this as well."

Zim shrugged. "If you say so. right now, i have to get ready." Zim left and headed downstairs. Applebloom leaned curiously to the door. He has to get ready? that's worth putting off her make-up to find out.

Zim entered his own private bathroom connected to his bedroom and got ready for his date. Applebloom followed and just looked. after a couple of moments, she asked: "Why do you have to get ready? i thought you and Snowdrop were going out so she can prove that you can't hold on to a girl."

Zim looked back at her. "Well.... that was true, but..."

when he didn't answer, it gave Applebloom her answer. "Oh! ohhohohoho. OH, you're in love with her!" Zim's not denying it. there's something about her that's irresistible. True, their dates were so they can see why he can't hold on to a marefriend. now, 4 months later... he fell in love with her. He can only hope that she feels the same way.

"You're right. i love Snowdrop. and i just hope she feels the same way about me. and you with Tiara."

Applebloom winced. "Oh, right! i have to finish getting ready." she turned and bolted out.

"You're gonna tell Applebloom tonight?" Blade, High Rise, and Snowdrop asked as Tiara got ready.

"Yep. i can just hope she feels the same way." Tiara said as she put on eye glitter.

"You better hope she can look past the baby belly." Blade said, pointing at Tiara's preggo belly.

Tiara looked down at her belly. she forgot about that. "well... hopefully, she's one of those ponies that doesn't care and would love the kid anyway."

that reminded High Rise of someone Applebloom mentioned. "Like her uncle Halo?"

Tiara slammed her hoof on the counter. "Thank you! i had trouble thinking the name. yes, like him. i hope Applebloom is like him."

"one can hope." Blade said.

Tiara stopped putting on the glitter and grabbed her lipstick. "shouldn't you guys be getting ready for your dates?"

"We're done." the 3 of them replied.

Tiara almost swallowed her lipstick and coughed. "w-what? *cough* how-how can you be done already?"

"Simple." Rise pulled out a tube of hoof polish out of Tiara's makeup kit. "we're not that focused on our looks."

"Plus, i'm blind, so i have an excuse." Snowdrop said.

"I thought you could see shapes thanks to Luna." Blade pointed out.

"Blurry Shapes, not colors. everything is a mint green."

same color as her fur. but how could she tell what Mint Green is? wasn't she born blind? whatever. Tiara still needs to get ready. "So... Snowdrop... going to tell Zim?"

"Tell Zim what?"

"That you love him. Duh." Rise said.

Snowdrop blushed. "N-n-no i don't."

"Then how come you're blushing?" Blade and Tiara asked. Snowdrop tried to cover her face but it was too late.

Tiara felt like catching Blade and Rise off guard. "So... Blade... Rise... how's it going with your boyfriends?"

Blade nervously scratched her cheek. "Um... i... i never had a chance to tell Breeze yet."

"really?"

"Yeah. i kept trying to but i just kept freezing up."

"Who knew Changelings could get nervous?" Rise said as she filled a cup with water from the sink.

Blade gave the pegasus a mean scowl. "what about you and Cannon, Rise? you tell him yet?"

"nope. i'm waiting for him to make the first move. i like my men to by feisty." she took a drink of her water. the 3 mares looked at each other with disinterested eyes. truth is, Rise is nervous as hell to even tell him. Snowdrop is the only one among their group to get a boyfriend and if a blind mare obessed with winter can do it, how hard can it be for her?

a whole lot.

Hearts and Hooves day hit with the force of a locomotive, sending the couples into their lovie-dovies stances. all the single folk are out, drinking their single problems away. Among them was our favorite asshole, Green Day.

"That damn mare. Taking my friends away from me, turning them against me! i'm completely innocent; she's the one who was being the whore." he took a large swig of his mead then slammed the empty mug on the counter. "I'm gonna go deal with her." he turned and walked out of the bar, ready to teach Tiara a lesson.

Gentle Breeze laid down under a tree, looking up at the warm Autumn sky.

"This spot taken?" Blade asked in a gentle tone

it didn't mind the dragon/pony hybrid none. "no. go right ahead."

Blade laid down next to him and looked up to the sky with him. a Pegasus squadron flew though the air, drawing a heart in the air, symbolizing the day. it was such a majestic sight, it awed all who watched.

"Wow." Breeze said.

"Yeah. wow." Blade tapped her hooves together. "Listen... Breeze. we've... we've been friends for years now, right?"

Breeze turned her head to her. "yeah."

"Do you... expect us to be friends... for years to come?"

"mmm... no." he coldly said.

Blade's heart sank. no? that wasn't the answer she wanted. how could he... why would he... this is sending her over the edge. "N-no? w-why no?"

"Because..." Breeze sat up and looked to her with loving eyes. Blade wasn't suspecting to see that. "I wish for us... to be more..." he leaned down and kissed her on the lips. Blade was surprised at first, but just let it flow. this went better and faster then she expected. she wonders if the rest of her friends are having the same luck.

High Rise whooped as she flew down from above, having drawn that heart in the sky with her compadres in Flight School. the other pegasi's lovers were there, waiting for them. Rise was surprised to see Loose Cannon waiting for her.

"Cannon? what are you doing here?"

"Waiting."

"waiting? for me?"

"Yeah. i was waiting for you."

"Why?"

"So i can..." Cannon used his magic to pull out a bouquet of flowers from behind his back. "Give you these."

Rise happily gasped and took them. Magnolias. her favorite. she took a sniff. If this was his first move, it was a good one. "Thanks, Cannon."

"Yeah." a moment later, he scratched his neck. "Listen... Rise. there's.... there's something i've been meaning to tell you." Rise knew where this was going. "I... i just want to say that i... i lo--" Cannon was cut short by Rise's sudden kiss. the girls nearby went whoo. someone even did a wolf-whistle.

Snowdrop and Zim sat on a bench, watching the Pegasi make the heart in the air.

"Okay, so the Pegasi just made a massive heart in the sky, symbolizing the importance of this day." Zim explained.

Snowdrop can't see what happens in the sky; despite her being a Pegasi. so, Zim explains it to her. "wow." she happily gasped.

"yeah. it's beautiful." Zim turned to her. "not as beautiful as you, though."

Snowdrop blushed. "I-i'm not pretty."

"Yes you are." Zim sat up. "Listen, Snowdrop. i... when we first went out on that joke date, i... i wasn't expecting how wonderful of a time i was going to spent with you. being with you was the first time i... i felt happy."

Snowdrop's heart began beating like a drum. "Z-Zim... ar-are you saying that..."

"Snowdrop... i love you."

Snowdrop happily gasped, holding her hoof to her mouth. she happily smiled as tears began to form in her eyes. "Zim... I love you too!" she went in and kissed him. the two fell of the bench and landed on the concrete walkway. they bonked their heads together.

"ow." they both said, rubbing their foreheads. they looked at each other, closed their eyes as they chuckled internally, then burst out laughing.

now we come to the meat of this story; the real reason why you're watching this fic: Applebloom and Diamond Tiara falling in love.

Dressed in the best dress she could find and made-up like a girl on Valentines, Tiara waited impatiently on a bridge crossing a small creek below them. well, small is a understatement. it's pretty big; big enough to be considered a swimming hole.

Tiara tapped her hoof on the wood. what's taking her so long? she sent the note a hour ago. what's taking Applebloom so long? "She's taking a really long time." Tiara muttered. she felt movement in her stomach and looked back to it. "You're getting impatient too, aren't you?"

Tiara jumped a bit when she heard Applebloom's voice say, "Talking to your belly is a sign of insanity, you know." she walked up, dressed like a royal. she was even wearing a Stetson similar to Applejack's.

"Wow!" Tiara went, looking at the dress. "You look.... Wow! How'd you score that?"

"Eh, Half though Aunt Rarity, half though Aunt Luna."

"Aunt Luna?"

"Could've swore i explained that to you." Applebloom walked over to her. "My sister married a stallion named Zilver's Light, whose sister Trixie is married to Princess Luna, technically making our family royalty."

Now Tiara remembered it all. "Oh, right. and Zilver's brother Halo is married to Twilight, who's brother Shining Armor is married to Princess Cadence. and Aunt Rarity is though Twilight again, who raised Spike like a son and who is now married to her." Tiara scratched her hurting head. "Man, that is complicated."

"I have trouble with it myself." Applebloom said in complete embarrassment.

Applebloom leaned on the railing with Tiara and looked down at the creek. "So... you're royalty." Tiara said.

"By extension. plus, we never act royal, so why be royals? we're more country folk then city folk."

Tiara chuckled. "I remember. I remember all those big reunions you all do every year."

Applebloom chuckled. she remembers the last one, the one before she left for Trottingham. as they are now a part of the apple family though their wives or husbands, Luna, Trixie, Spike, Rarity, Halo, Twilight, Cadence, Armor, Celestia and her husband Cosmos, and Erys were invited to the reunion. this was the first year the Princess' accepted the invitation.

that reunion ended with Armor and Luna accidentally burning the barn down. boy, was Applejack cross. But they were able to rebuild it as the Apple Family does.

"Yeah. i have Uncle Braeburn coming by come spring to pick me up on his way to Ponyville. he married a Buffalo, you know."

Tiara spit up and coughed. "A-A Buffalo? Applebloom, your family is weird."

"But exciting."

"I'm not arguing that."

a silence fell over them that lasted for a bit. Tiara tapped her hooves on the railing. "Um... Applebloom... there's... there's something i have--" she stopped there and shook her head. "I want to tell you." Applebloom looked to her with curious eyes. she had trouble speaking. "I....... i....."

the sudden flapping of wings came out of nowhere, distracting them both. they both looked to see Green Day fly down and landed near them. "There you are, you bitch." he said to Tiara. both mares angrily looked at him. "I had a feeling i'd find you here."

"What do you want, Green Day?" Tiara harshly asked.

"Simple. i'm here to teach you a lesson." he brandished his claws. "A lesson for turning me into a social pariah!"

"You deserved it!" Applebloom exclaimed. "You got Tiara pregnant, then you beat her down and destroyed her kidney, nearly killing her and your child!"

"Then she shouldn't have hit on me! she shouldn't have dragged me into bed! She--"

"That's not what happened and you know it!" Tiara exclaimed.

"Shut it, you dumb whore, or else you'll regret speaking up to me!" Green Day brandished his claws again.

Applebloom got between him and Tiara. "You want her, you're gonna have to go though me!" she got ready for trouble.

the mean Gryphon scoffed with a smirk. "I was hoping you'd say that." he suddenly charged at her.

Applebloom wasn't prepared for his speed and caught a mean punch to her ribs. Green Day slashed at her face, leaving a big scratch mark on her cheek. the combined forces sent Applebloom rolling off the bridge and onto the hard ground.

"Stay down if you know what's good for you!" Green Day shouted.

Applebloom ignored him and got up. her claw marks bled as she got up. "Stay away from Tiara, you bastard." she spit up blood and almost coughed it up.

Green Day snarled and charged at her again.

"What's going on over here!?" the sudden shout of a nearby officer caught their attention. he ran over to them having seen the incident.

"Dammit!" the Gryphon looked to Applebloom. "this isn't over!" he spread his wings and took to the air.

once he was gone, Tiara ran over to the wounded mare. "Applebloom, that... i... why?"

Applebloom looked to her and smiled. "Why not?" that was the last thing she said before blacking out.

Applebloom woke up to find herself in the hospital. "Oh... oh, damn..." her head hurt and her chest hurt. she tried to sit up but her entire body hurt.

Tiara entered the room just as she tried that. "Whoa whoa whoa!" she ran over to her. "Don't get up. you're badly hurt."

the country mare groaned and laid back down. "Tiara... how, how long was i out?"

"just for a few hours. that was more then enough time for the doctors to look you over. you have a few broken ribs and a collapsed lung. Green Day hit you really hard."

"Don't remind me." Applebloom groaned, rubbing her chest. it burned and she stopped. she looked down and saw that she was naked. "Where's my clothes?"

"I took them when they stripped you to get at the X-Rays. and i just informed Zim what happened and he went to get the others. he should be back soon with them."

Applebloom rested her head and smiled. "Thanks." she looked the situation over and chuckled. "it seems just yesterday that you were on this bed and i was worrying for you."

Tiara didn't see what was so funny about it. "Right..." she remembered what Applebloom did back there and just had to ask. "Why... why did you take those blows for me?"

Applebloom groaned with a sigh as she glanced away. she wanted to tell her, but not like this. "Well... i... it was because..." she shook her head. "I'm gonna come right out and say it. Tiara... i love you! i've loved you for a long while now but i couldn't say a thing. i was going to tell you back at the bridge but then Green Day appeared and..." Applebloom looked up at Tiara and saw her taking it all in. "Look... i know this wasn't what you were expecting and you're pregnant, so... if you want to leave me alone, i'll understand."

Tiara just looked at her and smiled with a warm chuckle. "Applebloom... you're such a idiot."

"Huh?"

"The reason i invited you to the bridge was because... because i wanted to say that i love you too. like you, i wasn't able to say a thing because i was nervous and afraid. plus my dad doesn't like Filly-Foolers in general. but... but if there's one pony that i could spend the rest of my life with... to be a good father to my child... i want it to be you."

Applebloom, having heard her true feelings, sat back and chuckled. "ain't that the bees knees. we both loved each other but we couldn't say a thing out of nervousness. and all it took to bring the feelings out was a attack by your vengeful Ex."

again, Tiara doesn't see what's funny. "So... what do we do now?"

Applebloom thought. "Well, as soon as i get out, i'm taking you on a date."

"And now?"

Applebloom slyly chuckled and pulled Tiara over. "Now... we kiss."

Tiara liked that idea. she leaned in close. Applebloom leaned to her and the two kissed. it felt like heaven to them both. after a few seconds, Applebloom broke it to say something. "Tiara... i know that Silver Crown ain't my kid... but i'm gonna try my hardest to be a good Mom. or is it Dad? help me out here, i'm confused!"

Tiara chuckled. "we'll think about it later." Tiara leaned in and kissed her again.

Zim and their friends entered to see them in the embrace. They all smiled and silently went out. they'll tell the two of them later.

Outside, hovering outside the window, Green Day watched them kiss and snarled angrily. The both of them are going to pay for what they turned him into.

both mares closed their eyes and let the most perfect feeling they ever felt take them over. the future for the both of them is going to be quite the eventful one.

Mi Amore

The day after Hearts and Hooves are a good day to most as they have someone really, really special they have in their lives. and for the first time in 2 decades, Applebloom can happily say she's among the masses.

she's got a Veterinary Practice in development. she already made good friends in Trottingham. and now, she has the best Marefriend anyone can ask for. She finally confessed her feelings to Diamond Tiara, and she to her. They are now happily embracing each other in Applebloom's bed back at Zim's.

as she was injured with that incident with Green Day, all Applebloom could do was embrace her new love. but neither of them cared. just as long as they stayed with each other, they could lose the house for all they care.

the morning sun rose on the day after Heart's and Hoove's. the rays broke though the window and hit Applebloom in the eyes. it woke her up, breaking apart the perfect embrace. she grumbled and lazily opened her eyes. she opened them to see herself face-to-face with Tiara... with her Marefriend.

"(Still hard to believe)" she thought. she leaned in and kissed Tiara on the forehead. "(i finally have someone to love. didn't expect it to be Diamond Tiara.)" even when the sun hit her, Tiara still kept sleeping. "(she's so cute when she's sleeping.)" she looked down at Tiara's rising and falling pregnant belly. "(And i'm going to be a Dad. well, Step-Mom, but still... i have a marefriend and she's pregnant. can life get any greater?)"

Applebloom carefully shifted, making sure not to wake up her new lover, and got out of the bed. her chest hurt when she did that- that's Green Day's fault with his little attack. she made her way to Tiara's 4-month belly and kissed it. "Hey there, Silver Crown." she softly whispered. she is unaware that the little kiss woke Tiara up.

"Listen... i know i'm not your real daddy- and when you find out, you may hate me. -but i promise right here, right now that i love you like i love your momma. i swear, we're perfect for each other. it didn't seem that way when we were fillies, but... right now... i can see nobody else i would spend the rest of my life with. the two of you are now the most important ponies in my life. that i promise."

Applebloom finished with a smile, hoping the baby heard that. she doubts it; it's only 4 months, but she hopes. she rubbed the belly gently. she kissed 3 seconds in. "I hope you meant that." Tiara groggily said.

Applebloom turned to her and smiled. she got up, headed over, and kissed her on the forehead. "every word."

Tiara smiled and kissed her on the lips. They did this so much last night, their lips were raw. they didn't care. Tiara broke the kiss and got comfy. "You sure you should be up? Green Day did break a few ribs during his little tyraid."

"I should still be in the hospital." Applebloom grunted, rubbing her chest. it still burns from the incident. "But we Apple folk are strong, studious ponies. Big Mac was able to walk, WALK, a broken leg off. that's how tough we are."

Tiara whistled in amazement. Applebloom's family sound very tough. and she bullied one of them back in grade school. now that same mare is her Marefriend. "Back when we were fillies- when i was bullying you and you took it in stride -did you ever imagine us being here like this?"

"Like what?"

"As Marefriends, living in Trottingham, ever so blinded by love, with a abusive Gryphon's child 7 months away?"

Applebloom thought, she actually thought about it. "Well... 20 years from then, i would've considered one of us to be a mother by now." they both looked to Tiara's belly for a moment. "But all this- i'm just as surprised as you are. living in Trottingham- surprised i came out this far. meeting all these wondering people- i was actually hoping for that. and falling in love..." she paused there. "Well... i imagined meeting some great stallion. i certainly never expected falling in love with you."

"Same here. i mean, we were the worst of enemies when we were fillies, wanting each other to leave us alone. now, we're having a baby and i can't imagine anyone better to be a good parent then you."

Applebloom blushed. "Y-you're just saying that."

"I mean it. and you're a great Mare to boot. you were able to put up with my bullying all those years. and from what you told me, you went up with your friends against the Changelings, Discord, and a giant Dragon! that's bravery. and that's a trait i want Crown to pick up from you." Applebloom smiled lightly. good to see that is something Tiara likes. "plus, you have a plot like nobodies busniess."

Applebloom's entire face turned red. "Hey! you told you you could look at my flank?"

"I just felt like it. and it's a nice plot, too. guess it's true what they say about country-girls." that made Applebloom blush even further.

"i-i-i-i'm gonna go get some breakfast going. c-come down when you ready." Applebloom walked out, trying to keep her blushing face out of TIara's vision.

Tiara playfully chuckled. "She's so cute when she's flabbergasted."

Applebloom shakingly, yet passionately, sighed. first night as Marefriends and TIara's already eyeing the good stuff. well, Applebloom is also guilty on doing that with Tiara but she was secretive about that.

while on the way down the stairs, Applebloom looked back at her flank. "What's true about country-girls?" she asked herself.

she reached the ground floor, still wondering what's true about country girls, but stopped when she entered the kitchen. she saw both Zim and Snowdrop sitting at the table, Zim looking like he lost his best friend, and Snowdrop with her hooves behind her head.

Applebloom headed for the cupboards. "What's wrong?" she asked them.

"We're in trouble." Snowdrop said. "big... big trouble."

Can't be as bad as how bad Applebloom's chest hurt. it started burning as she reached for the cupboard. Green Day must've hit her harder then she thought. she pulled a stool over and climbed up. "What kind of trouble?" she asked, reaching for the cereal.

Snowdrop and Zim looked at each other and sighed. Zim scratched the back of his neck. "Snowdrop's pregnant."

"What!?!" that sudden annoucement made Applebloom lose her balance and fell off the stool. the cereal fell out of the cupboard and landed on top of her, spilling all over the kitchen floor. "Ow..."

Tiara heard the crash from upstairs and came down to investigate. "Applebloom, what happened?" she gasped, seeing the wreckage.

"i fell. hard. but that's not the big part!"

Tiara blinked once in confusion then looked at Zim and Snowdrop. "What's she talking about?"

Snowdrop shamefully sighed. "i'm... i'm pregnant."

Tiara happily gasped. "Oh, Congratulations! oh, we're like sisters right now!" she noticed that the two of them weren't excited. "but... why is this a bad thing?"

Zim grunted as he scratched his hoof. "I... i'm not the father."

both Tiara and Applebloom gasped. oh... that's not good. "how? how are you not the father?"

"Because Snowdrop and I haven't done 'IT' yet. and she's already a month along."

This is probably a scary time for the both of them. "and... you're sure you're pregnant?" Applebloom asked as she got up from the mess she made.

"My periods 2 weeks late and i just came back from the doctor's when i had my eyes looked at. he took X-Ray's and... that's how i found out. i'm pregnant."

wow... this is... wow. Tiara and Applebloom couldn't believe this. Applebloom knows Zim isn't ready to become a father. not for a another decade, at least. he's still too much of a jokester.

"What are you going to do?" Tiara asked.

Snowdrop shook her head. "i... i don't know. i don't even know how this all happened. we were going out for 4 months. how did i even get time to get pregnant?"

this sounds very similar to what happened to someone Applebloom knows. someone we all know. "You know... this sounds like what happened to my aunt Twilight." the 3 of them looked at her, wondering what the hell she's talking about. "Listen, 15 years ago, my aunt Twilight went to the Gryphon Kingdom with her friends and the humans to reverse a spell aunt Trixie cast. they did it and went out to celebrate. during that, Twilight was... abducted and forced to work in a... house of in repute."

Snowdrop gasped. "She was... raped?"

"and got pregnant. and like the two of you, she and Halo were freaking out. but, not long after returning home, Aunt Twilight realized that maybe a kid will be a good thing, and she'll raise it to be better then it's rapist father. 11 months later, she had her first daughter Starlight... and i saw the look in Twilight's eyes. Starlight, despite her unentihcal origins, was the best thing that ever happened to her."

the best thing that happened to her. "You sure about that?"

"Write Twilight yourself. i'll give you the address."

"But... how did Halo feel? knowing that Starlight wasn't his kid?" Zim asked.

"He doesn't care. he loves her as much as he loves Twilight, which is as much as how i love Tiara. and both he and i feel the same way about our situations: it may not be our kid, but we are gonna love the little tyke regardless. and if me and Uncle Halo can look past that, then so can you Zim."

Zim looked away for a moment, then he and Snowdrop looked at each other. She had a point. a big point. Zim smiled and grabbed Snowdrop's hoof. "i guess we can try."

Applebloom warmly smiled. "that's the spirit." she looked to the mess she caused and grimaced. "I'll go get a broom." she headed out the kitchen, leaving the two to talk this out. Tiara followed after her.

"did you mean all of that?" Tiara asked as they headed back upstairs.

"Every word. i really mean it. I may not be Silver Crown's real dad, but i am going to love the tyke regardless."

Tiara smiled. she is really lucky to have someone like Applebloom in her life. she's strong, she's kind, she's ready to help... she's ready to look past all the bad things in the past and be there for someone. she had to pay Applebloom back for all her kindness. and she has the best idea. "Um... does your chest still hurt?"

"Like Hell." she replied, rubbing it. "Why do you ask?"

"Well... i have a idea in mind that may be... a bit strenuous for you."

"Strenuous? for me?" Applebloom sputtered like a horse. "i spent my childhood helping Applejack buck trees AND help her and Zilver raise their hyper daughter. Trust me; i got whatever you have planned."

Tiara smiled. she's not so sure about that. "we'll see about that."

Applebloom is certain she can deal with whatever Tiara has planned. "So, what is it?"

Tiara smiled seductively, then leaned in and whispered into Applebloom's ear in a slow and sensual way. Applebloom just stood there as Tiara said what she said. when it was said and done, Tiara backed away for a moment. Applebloom's legs turned to jelly and she almost bucked over. Tiara grabbed Applebloom by the tail and pulled her into their room. she closed the door and locked in.

This is going to be the best morning ever.

Author's Note

Bow-Chicka-Bow-Wow!

Letters from Home

in the days following their hookup, Applebloom and Tiara are working to find a good apartment downtown. with Zim and Snowdrop going to become parents themselves, they're gonna need all the room they need. they don't know how many they'll have and both Bloom and Tiara want them to have as much room as possible to raise the tyke(s). Plus, they all saw Full Stabble and don't want to be in that kind of situation. 10 ponies living under one roof- yeesh. and they wish to do this by themselves; no help from Zim or Snowdrop or anyone.

Zim asked 'why not move into Tiara's place?' Tiara replied that her father isn't exactly a big fan of Filly-Foolers. in fact, he despises them. and if he found out that his own daughter was a Filly-Fooler herself, then Filthy Rich would throw a fit. and from what Tiara said, while he's kind and calm in public, in private he's a different stallion. and Tiara's afraid of that Filthy Rich.

Applebloom wasn't eager to tell her friends yet. if they found out she's dating their worst enemy, they'd throw a fit (and boy, will they). If anyone from Ponyville comes to Trottingham and finds out; sure. she'll have to explain it to them. it's gonna be difficult with Applejack, but still.

"Hmm... how about this one?" Tiara pointed out a 2-bedroom, 1 bath apartment above a Marenese restuarant downtown. "It'll smell good every day."

Applebloom wasn't so keen on that. "Marenese always gives me a stomach ache, either by smell or eats."

okay, so that's out. Tiara grabbed the newspaper and looked again. Newspapers from the past month were littered on the living room floor, with all the classifieds circled then crossed out. they are on the last paper, which is the most recent one, and they had complete trouble.

"here's one." Applebloom said. "3 bedroom- 2 bath- nice view, and it's a steal at 375 Bits a month."

Tiara whistled. "Nice. bit it's a bit expensive."

"Your dad is one of the richest ponies in Equestria! surely he can split the bill for a few months."

"But if he finds out that his only daughter is a Filly-Fooler, he'll run you out of town."

Applebloom forgot about that. She remember's him not being the most loving when Lyra and Bonbon got married, same with Vinyl and Octavia. and when Luna married Trixie, he's the only one who didn't cheer. of course, not many ponies did what with the Changelings attacking that same day.

The main door opened and Zim and Snowdrop walked in. "Hey you two, what's going on?" Snowdrop asked.

Applebloom put her paper down. "Trying to find a apartment. and it's hard. we just went though all the classifieds and not one of them sounded good. and when we did find one, we found a con: most of them involving Filthy Rich. he's anti-gay."

both Zim and Snowdrop went "oh..." that is going to be hard. "Wait. why are you looking for a apartment?" Zim asked.

"So all 4 of us can have room to raise our kids." Tiara explained. "I'm certain you want room to raise your coming bundle of joy."

Snowdrop and Zim looked at each other. "Well... that's something we wanted to talk to you two about." Snowdrop said.

"We... we want you to stay." Zim said.

Applebloom and Tiara looked up at them, then to each other, then back to them. "Stay?"

"we don't know how to raise a child." Snowdrop whined. "we're worried that we will mess up horribly and the baby will grow up to hate us. and what if she's born blind like me? i don't know... i don't know what i'd do if something like that happened. so, we figured that, that you should stay. you're the only one with experience."

Applebloom pointed to herself? "Me? i helped Applejack raise Peppy, but that hardly counts as experience."

"it still counts." Zim said. "We're scared stiff and we need all the help we can get. and i'm sure you do to."

Applebloom and Tiara looked at each other. They want to get their own apartment to raise Silver Crown proper. but Applebloom could see that Zim and Snowdrop are scared out of their wits. and Applejack taught her never to abandon a friend in need. "Well.... it will probably take a few years before we find a good apartment, what with this crummy econimy and all, so--"

the worried couple didn't need her to finish her sentence. they knew where she was going. "Oh, thank you!" Snowdrop passionately said as she hugged her.

Zim breathed a sigh of relief. "Thanks Applebloom."

"You owe us for staying." Both Applebloom and Tiara said.

"We know, we know. i just spoke to a contractor. we're gonna add a few rooms to the house and extend some of the existing ones."

Applebloom broke Snowdrop's hug. "This is gonna turn into a Full Stabble scenario, isn't it?" she asked Tiara. her Marefriend nodded. Applebloom sighed. that was something she wanted to avoid. "Oh! i forgot to check the mail!"

"I got it." Zim said, heading to the door. turned out to be a bad idea cause the door slammed open, pinning him against the wall as the rest of their friends came in.

"The Fun has arrived!" High Rise sang. Blade, Gentle Breeze, and Loose Cannon rolled their eyes. "hey, where's Zim?" the door creaked close behind her, giving her the answer. "Hehe. Sorry, Zim. hehe. i..." she reached into her saddle bags. "got you your mail."

Zim snarled and took the letters away from Rise. He looked though them as Blade asked; "What's going on here? someone making a paper machie pinata?"

Applebloom replied sarcastically. "ha ha ha. aren't you funny? no, me and Tiara WERE looking for an apartment but Zim and Snowdrop played dirty and made us stay."

they can imagine what tricks Zim and Snowdrop made. "you two are devious together." Breeze said.

"We know." Snowdrop said with a cutisy face.

"Wow. all these letters are for Applebloom."

For her? she wasn't expecting any letters. "From who?"

"Hmm... from Twilight Sparkle... Princess Luna & Trixie... Applejack... Sweetie Belle... Dinky... Scootaloo... Babs Seed... and someone named Requiem."

Okay, her friends and family she can see, but Requiem? "She's not even on this world anymore. how did she write me a letter?" she asked as she took it.

Not from this world? Princess Luna? okay, everyone just had to ask: "How do you know all these people?"

"i could've sworn i explained it earlier, but..." Applebloom sat down on the comfiest chair. "Luna's wife Trixie is the sister to Applejack's husband Zilver." She placed all but Requiem's letter on the nearby coffee table. "And remember when those humans arrived on Equestria? they landed at Ponyville, my hometown."

"Oh. Letter's from a Alien. i'm interested." Loose Cannon said. everyone was, especially Tiara. She only met the humans a few times so she doesn't remember much of them. She's having trouble trying to pin Requiem's name to her face. was she the cross purple-haired mage?

Applebloom ripped open the envelope and read the contents.

"Hey, Kid.

Wow. you're 20 years old. hard to believe. we all remember you when you were just a little filly. hard to think about what you look like now. we heard you moved to Trottingham. we never been so we don't know what it's like. and you met a girl: Diamond Tiara, of all ponies. and she's pregnant. wow, this is just like Halo and Twilight, except not as... dramatic.

well, sorry for the short letter, but we're in the middle of something. the universe isn't going to save itself, you know.

Wish you and Tiara and your new Veterinary practice the best.

love, Requiem and the rest."

"Save the universe?" all minus Applebloom said in unison.

Applebloom wasn't focused on that; she saw Requiem fight like a goddess. probably because she is a goddess. what Applebloom is focused on is how she learned all of this. she didn't tell Applejack that she and Tiara are going out yet, but Requiem already found out? and she's not on the planet.

"Req always is the odd one." Applebloom sighed. she set that letter down and grabbed a new one from the top of the pile. she's going to save her sister's for last. the one she grabbed was Trixie's and Luna's.

"Greetings from Canterlot.

It's us, Trixie and Luna.

(Luna) Zilver's Light told us you moved to Trottingham when she came to Canterlot to sell some pies. why didn't you inform us? well, anyway, when he came to sell those pies, he stopped by and informed us that you had moved. the last of the Cutie Mark Crusaders have left Ponyville. you'd be surprised how sad your sister was. Zilver said she was real sad. but she quickly got over it.

(Trixie) enough about Zilver and Applejack; now for us. recently, Canterlot has turned into a slow bore of a town. we've done everything in town and now, we're bored as hell. we've seen all the plays, we ate at all the restaurants, we slept at all the hotels *wink, wink*; we even went into the un... bad part of town. still a bore. so we're going to take a vacation. We heard that Marolulu is nice this time of year. perfect place to get out of the snow.

(Luna) we hope to see you soon, Applebloom. and i hope nothing bad has happened to you. we heard what happened to your friend Diamond Tiara when she came back from Trottingham a few months ago. sounds like she's going though the same scenario that Twilight did. we hope she's as strong willed as her. With you as her pillar of support, i'm sure she'll do fine. and i heard that a filly i helped a while back is living in Trottingham as well. if you meet her, give Snowdrop my love. we may have only met for a short while but i miss her and i hope to see her soon. there was something about her i found... intriguing.

(Trixie) well, we gotta get going. time for a much needed vacay.

(both) love from your aunts...

Trixie and Luna."

"Wow." Snowdrop gasped. "Princess Luna remembers me?"

"She's got a good memory." Applebloom said. "And by the looks of it, she misses you."

Snowdrop warmly smiled and wiped her eyes. "I know."

Applebloom put that letter down and grabbed the next one.

"What's up, Cuz?

It's me, Babs Seed. you know, from Manehatten. You and you friends came by when that Disc--whoever came around. glad you kicked his can back to kingdom come.

i'm on a time limit so i'm going to keep this short.

i met someone, Cuz. i met someone 2 years ago. we hit it off and we just now tied the knot. you may know her; she was a Ponyville native like you. her name is Silver Spoons. you know her, right? she's says she knows you.

well, i hafta go. we're going out with a coupl'a friends o'mine.

Catch ya if you happen in Manehatten.

Babs."

"Babs Seed married Silver Spoons?" Applebloom exclaimed.

Tiara gave her a bit of a scowled look. "And what's wrong with that?"

"Nothing. i'm just surprised. very surprised." Applebloom set that letter down and grabbed Dinky's.

"Hey there, Applebloom.

It's us, Dinky and Pipsqueck.

i don't know if you heard or not but my and Pip joined with Aunt Daring Do and her gryphon husband Silverbolt. Ponyville was find but it was boring. me and Pip are fun loving ponies and we needed some freedom. Daring said yes and brought us along. we turned out to be quite the helpful helpers. My dragon wings and Pip's smarts make us a good archaeology group.

hehe. even after all this, i still find it hard to believe that i have dragon wings. DRAGON WINGS!! it's just so frickin' awesome.

And we heard you moved to Trottingham. we're nearby. and by nearby, we mean at San Fransiscolt. but on a map, it's next door. anyway, we were there. hope you didn't run into Diamond Tiara. she moved there and... well, let's just say our reunion was... less then stellar.

And my mom? she's been busy helping Windancer getting ready for a play she's in. at least, that's what her last letter told me. And Dad? she didn't say. guess she only had enough time to write about sis.

Well, wish you luck.

from, Dinky Hooves."

Applebloom gave a mean glance to Tiara, who whistled suspiciously. "What did you say to Dinky?"

"Eh... i may have made fun of her wings." Tiara said, finishing with a innocent smile.

"wait wait wait. Dragon Wings?" Breeze asked.

"Yeah. her dad is a Dragon."

Breeze never heard of a Pony with just Dragon wings before.

well, whatever, time to whittle down the pile. next: Aunt Twilight.

"Hello there, Applebloom.

It's me: Aunt Twilight.

Applejack informed me that you arrived safely in Trottingham, met up with a old friend, and are currently getting your practice made. i wish you luck. if there's anything you need help with, i'll be here.

as for me, i've been quite busy. Golden Day is a hyper 5 year old; so much like you when you were her age. she keeps trying to coerce us into going to a carnival in Canterlot. haha, no dice. doesn't stop her from trying.

Starlight is being her self; distant and brooding. and i don't blame her. being the only Alicorn born outside of royalty can be tough. and having power over time can be tougher still. but she's coping... kinda. i'm just worried she's going to do something stupid. i know she won't do it now, but i fear it's soon.

or it's my imagination getting the better of me again. i should've learned my lesson when i forgot to send a report to Celestia during my second year in Ponyville. ... i think it's my imagination. like when i thought Spike was cheating on Rarity. i knew he would never do that but... again, my imagination.

Anyway, i hope Trottingham treats you well. i heard good things about it, even though i never been.

Love, from your favorite Aunt

Twilight Sparkle."

"A Alicorn outside of Royalty?" everyone said in confusion. "You have weird family, Applebloom."

A.B. chuckled. "You have NO idea."

she put down Twilight's letter and grabbed the next one, straight from Scootaloo.

"Hailing straight from the Gryphon Kingdom, it's the one, the only, SCOOTALOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!

...

Sorry but i couldn't resist. plus, i just got back from a wrestling match. reported it, actually. guy i was rooting for got stomped.

So how's Trottingham been treating you, Apps? i can imagine it's quite a bore. not much to do. not to mention all those Stallions with those bogus accents. ugh. i can't stand those accents. don't know what Twilight and Applejack see in that.

but enough about you, time for me! I did it, Apps. i made it to the TOP! i am now a top field reporter! hallelujah, right? it's such a fun job, i don't ever wanna give it up.

and Feather Weight? he made it a photographer for Feather Top's best newspaper. he's actually the top photo guy. it's awesome, been awesome ever since we got married 7 months ago. you didn't show! i could've sworn i sent a invitation. ah, well, Applejack arrived. as did Dash.

i said it a lot back then and i'm gonna continue to say it: I'm glad Rainbow Dash adopted me. i really am. and with Soarin' Cloud and Eris Shine as my siblings, it's just too awesome.

from what i noticed, Da-- i mean Mom; still have trouble with that -- Mom is still having trouble getting over Eris' death. i still feel a bit of guilt; i still think i could've done something to prevent it. and from what Shadow-- Dad, i mean -- from what Dad said, she's been getting increasingly depressed every year on that day. i just hope something good happens to her soon. she really needs it.

i started this letter talking about me, now it ended with mom. what a lark.

well, greetings from Feather Top.

Scootaloo."

Applebloom remembers that day. the day Eris died. everyone felt depressed.

"Wait. i'm confused. are there two Eris'?" Blade asked.

"now. there were 3, but it got down to two. the Eris Scoots is talking about, the one who died, was a baby Draconequus Rainbow Dash adopted. she... was used by Discord and died in the end." Snowdrop and Blade gasped, holding their hooves over their mouth. "But that was 15 years ago. most of us have moved on. speaking of which..."

Applebloom grabbed the second to last letter- Sweetie Belle.

"hi there, Applebloom.

it's me, Sweetie Belle.

though, i think it would be better to call me the Vocal Queen. hehe. great, now i'm starting to use that nickname. i'm not ever sure how it started; i'm just a singer. well, guess i should've expected this to happen when i became Sapphire Shores understudy. i know Rumble didn't.

I'm currently on tour. unfortunately, Trottingham isn't among the stops. still, whenever i get the chance, i'll come by. and try to invite Scootaloo and Dinky. we'll have a little get-together; reminisce of old times.

just so you know, i heard that the little eh... thing that got Aunt Twilight pregnant moved to Trottingham, though they're low key this time. still, be on the look out and try to contact Armor when you do. he's still looking for whoever got his baby sister pregnant. hope you don't end up in the same situation.

OH, and i heard Tiara moved there as well. be careful and tread lightly; she's probably still the mean bully she always is.

well, i have to cut this short. i'm about to go onstage. sold out, which means a big ground.

Loves and Kisses from me and Rumble

Sweetie Belle."

"You know Sweetie Belle!? The Vocal Queen!?!" a very ecstatic High Rise exclaimed.

Applebloom backed up in fear. "I had no clue you were fan."

"A Fan?! she's amazing! she blows Sapphire Shores out of the water. and you're friends with her! that's so awesome!"

Loose Cannon gave his girlfriend a frightful look. "So... what was that about Twilight?"

"the thing that got her pregnant was a un... well, basically a Sex Trade. they kidnapped her and... well, you all know that story. but apparently, the trade moved here to Trottingham. maybe that's how you got pregnant, Snow."

"You sure?" Snowdrop asked.

"but as Sweets said, they're on the down low. maybe they roofied whatever you were drinking a month ago and that got you in this predicament."

Snowdrop and Zim looked at each other. that would explain it. Applebloom put that letter down and grabbed the last one- Applejacks.

"Howdy, Lil' Sis.

It's your big sis Applejack here.

Zilver and Peppy are out in the fields and Big Mac is on ANOTHER date with Cheerilee. i swear, he's too stubborn and worried about comentmemt. well, everyone has a flaw.

speaking of flaws, Trottingham, Lil' Sis? i know Zim said he'd take you in at the last family reunion, but why that far? ah, some fillies. too hard to understand.

speaking of fillies, your neice Peppy sure misses you. well, for about 2 seconds, then she went on and on, getting the town ready for the next Hearth's Warming Eve. Holiday decorations may be her special talent, but there's a limit.

so what's Trottingham like? i hear it's a bit of a dull-ville, what with rich snobby types calling it home. i mean, do you remember that arrogant Blueblood? he has a summer home there.

speaking of homes, i heard that Diamond Tiara is calling that place home. and i heard what happened to her from Celestia. it was hard when Twilight got raped. but she's just a innocent li'le filly. still, it's good to hear the two of you reconcile your differences and your helping her with the baby and all. i raised you well.

well, good to see you're doing well. give Helios my respects. not that he can understand me. and good look with your veterinary practice. looking forward to hearing back from you.

Love. your big sis

Applejack."

that was the last one. Applebloom put that letter down and sighed. her mouth was sore from all that talking.

"Wow. you're lucky to have friends and family who care about you." High Rise said.

"though half of them were ripping at Tiara." Cannon said.

Tiara shrugged. "well... it was 15 years since Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle saw me. they don't know i changed for the better."

Applebloom wrapped a hoof around Tiara. "and i hope they see you soon. cause i love the new Tiara." Tiara smiled and kissed her on the cheek. even after a week, Applebloom still blushed.

Dragon Uncle

a train from Ponyville rolled down the track, heading for Trottingham. most were heading there to buy supplies for Hearth's Warming Eve. One passenger in particular was pretty excited.

a young pony/dragon hybrid filly stuck her head out the nearby window, eagerly waiting to see the approching city. "This is so exciting! i've never been anyplace other then Canterlot or Ponyville before."

her dragon father chuckled. "calm down, Fire Ruby. it's just a new city."

"But it's a city i've never been to before. and Aunt Applebloom is living there. i can't wait to meet her again."

the Dragon chuckled. "Right. i forgot she moved to Trottingham. think we should've brought your mother and sister. they never saw Trottingham themselves."

Fire Ruby sat back down at their seat. "I don't think Sis would, not with that bad cold. and you don't really want Aunt Applebloom to catch it, do you?"

She had him there. "Guess not." he crossed his legs and rested his head on the seat. "Applebloom is going to be surprised to see us. hope Trottingham is treating her all right."

"Listen here, Green Day!" Applebloom exclaimed angrily. the mean Gryphon had taken it upon himself to 'persuade' the bank to foreclose on Applebloom's business, which hasn't even opened yet. He convinced them that Applebloom would never pay them back for the loan. "I spent 5 months trying to get this place ready for when i open it up next month! Then you have to go and pull this Bison-Shit!? What in Tartarus is wrong with you!?!"

the smug feeling Gryphon raised his wings and flew over. "this is payback for making me look like a complete fool!"

"You are a fool! You're just too stubborn and stupid to see it."

Green Day growled. he's really starting to hate this pony. "you want a repeat of last time? cause i can do that!"

"I Just want you to leave me and Tiara alone! is that too much to ask, Green Day?"

"Yes, It-- wait..."

*scene stops*

"Green Day? my name is Green Star."

Applebloom blinked in confusion. "You sure? i thought it was Green Day."

"No, that was the name of a no-show in Discordian Troubles." he pulled out the 'book' and flipped to that page. "See?"

Applebloom pulled out a pair of glasses and looked. oh, yeah. "Oh.... then why does the script..." Applebloom reached off screen and pulled out this chapters script. "Yeah, it says Green Day."

the Gryphon leaned in and read it. "what? but my name is Green Star? why was he calling me Green Day?"

"I don't know, he's gotten lazy lately. have you seen the last two chapters?" Applebloom tossed the script and glasses away. she spoke to the off-screen crew. "We're ready for another take."

okay. quiet on the set. Quiet! Lights, Camera, Action.

*resume scene*

"I just want you to leave me and Tiara alone! is that too much to ask, Green Star?!"

"Yes it is, you insolent little mare!" he turned and headed to the exit. "and i'm going to give you one warning." he kicked the door out. "Leave town now! or else i won't be responsible for what happens to Tiara. or the kid." he smugly smiled at that last part.

Applebloom gasped out of fear then growled out of anger. "You stay the hell away from Tiara and Crown!! YOU HEAR ME!!? YOU MESS WITH THEM- YOU EVEN TOUCH ONE HAIR -AND I'LL TURN YOU INTO GRYPHON CHOPS MYSELF!!!"

Green Star just smugly smiled and flew on out. Man, he is the worst. angry, Applebloom ran out. she grabbed a rock and threw it as hard as she could at the Gryphon. it fell short and fell harmlessly into a bush.

"Damn Gryphon!" she looked back at her now defunct Veterinary Practice and sighed. she never even had a chance to even open it. "Dammit, Green Star. why can't you leave us alone?"

"He really did that?" Tiara gasped. Applebloom had returned home and told Tiara, Zim, and Snowdrop the entire story. Zim had been hard at work adding extensions to his house so Applebloom and Tiara could live there, as he and Snowdrop are scared stiff about becoming parents and need help.

"Yes. the bastard convinced the back to close down my practice, before i even got it open. then he threatened to come after you if i don't leave town."

Zim scoffed in anger. "What a bastard. why not call the cops on this guy?"

"He's got pull on the police chief." Tiara said. "From what i heard when we still going out, he walked in on the chief having an affair and promised to keep shut if he ignores what Green Star does."

Snowdrop angrily crossed her hooves. "That explains a whole lot."

Applebloom didn't like this. she hates being put in this kind of situation. "Why not call Celestia or Luna?" Zim suggested. "You're part royalty now with your brother-in-law being Duchess Trixie's brother. surely you have some pull."

Applebloom got stern and slammed her hooves on the table. "No! this is my problem and i can deal with it myself!"

Tiara asked in a fearful sympathetic tone, "Bloom..."

Applebloom sighed. "I... i don't want any help from them on this. otherwise, i'll fail what i set out to do; prove i can live on my own, without help from them." she just realized she sounded like a complete hypocrite. She got help from Tiara and Filthy Rich to get her practice in the first place. and she just knew they were gonna ask that.

without a word, Applebloom turned and headed out the door. Tiara hates it when she is like this, oh so much. she wishes she could do something, anything to help her. but she can't do much.

Applebloom walked though the southern park, kicking a tin can in front of her, constantly cursing. "Damn Green Star... Damn Green Star... Damn Green Star." just mentioning his name made her blood boil.

ever since she came here, that damned Gryphon was constantly getting in her way. and when she started going out with Tiara, it got even worse. why is he such a mean man?

"ARGH! I HATE YOU, GREEN STAR!!!" she kicked the can with all her might, sending it spinning though the air. it went over the park fence and rolled down a hill. Applebloom panted heavily and angrily. Damn... this is too much. why is this happening to her?

"wow. never saw this side to you before."

Applebloom was surprised to hear that voice. It had been 5 months and he was in Ponyville. what is he doing all the way here in Trottingham, she's going to find out. she turned around and faced the dragon. "Spike?"

the grown up purple dragon smiled. "Long time no see, Applebloom."

"Applebloom!"

Tiara called out for her missing lover, hoping to find her. for whatever reason, she always goes to the parks. guess it reminds her a lot about home. and she can see why; it's so peaceful and so serene, just like Ponyville.

"APPLEBLOOM!! dammit, where did you go?"

"LOok out beloW!"

Tiara stopped walking beneath a tree and looked around to find it when something fell from above, crashed into her back, and made her fall to the ground.

both mares moaned. "Ow..."

Tiara got up, making the other mare roll off her. she rubbed where the other mare fell and groaned. "Watch it." she snapped.

the filly rolled onto her back and groaned. "Sorry... a branch broke."

Tiara opened her eyes and saw the mare who fell onto her. it was a filly, a dragon/pony hybrid filly, with large enthesis on the pony aspect. that means mom's a pony. "Who are you? and why were you up in a tree?"

the filly got up and brushed herself off. "My name is Fire Ruby and i'm here with my dad. and i was up in the tree because i wanted to be, got it preggo?."

her dad? must be her dragon side. seems she may have inherited his mouth. "so... why aren't you with your dad?"

"well... he saw someone from his past and went to go have a talk with her. he told me to play here until he came back."

"Really? not exactly good parenting." wait, she's avoiding the subject. "wait, you fell onto me! you could've harmed my baby."

Ruby looked at the mares belly and went 'Nah!'

"Nah?! do you have no respect to your elders? Your not going to say your sorry?"

Ruby yawned, not really caring. "You almost done. i'm getting tired."

Oh, that is it. she doesn't know who her father is but he is shirking his duties. this Filly is almost as bad as High Rise. and if she's not going to apologize right now, she has another plan in mind. "that's it." Tiara grabbed Ruby's ear and pulled on it, dragging the shrieking filly behind her. "We're gonna find your dad and make him make you apologize. fortunately, there's not a lot of dragons in Trottingham."

Applebloom was initially surprised by Spike's sudden appearance in Trottingham but it quickly went away. He explained that he and Ruby came to get some supplies for Rarity on a new dress she's making for the Vocal Queen, her own sister Sweetie Belle, and would be heading back to Ponyville tomorrow.

While he was here, Applebloom felt like she had to talk to him, and she did. she talked about every single aspect of what happened since she arrived; reuniting with Tiara, helping her with the baby... Green Star...

Applebloom nervously fidgeted with a leave as she and Spike sat on a bench. "And now... Green Star has convinced the bank to close down my practice before i had a chance to open it and is making me leave town or else he'll hurt Tiara and Crown... or worse."

Spike was stunned to hear someone was that mean. "Wow. sounds worse then Gilda when we first met her."

Applebloom stuttered like a horse. "Green Star is much, much worse then Gilda. and unlike Gilda, he's not going to try to become good."

Spike just took it all in and thought the whole situation over. "Well... have you tried contacting Princess Celestia? or Cadence; i know the Crystal Empire is near here."

Applebloom angrily snarled and got up. "No!" Spike almost jumped when she snapped. "When i left to come out here, i told Applejack i could make it on my own; to show that i can make it without her help. and i am! and i am not going to let some dumb Gryphon make me leave town and tear me away from Tiara! Not now, not ever! i'll deal with Green Star my own way!"

Spike just sat there, not sure what to say to this new Applebloom. she sure wasn't like this when she was a filly. But... he respects her wishes, even if they are stupid. "Okay. okay." Applebloom sighed and sat down. "I will tell them but i'll also tell them you want to deal with this on your own."

Applebloom sighed. "Sorry for that, Spike... this whole thing with Green Star is really getting to me. *sigh* why does he do these things? why is he on Nightmare Moon levels of nastyness?"

Spike shrugged. he doesn't know; he never met him. "i don't know. but you seem to be doing a good job about it."

a good job? "How?"

"Well, he's gotta be nervous about you. otherwise, he would've have gone to that big of a attack by making the bank take your practice. he's nervous about you."

Applebloom sighed. it's not really helping. "*Sigh* Spike... i'm just... i'm tired of all this. i just wish Green Star will leave us alone."

"And he will. once you deal with him."

Applebloom sighed again. all this talk about Green Star is making her feel down again. She had to change the subject. "So..... how's everyone in Ponyville doing?"

Spike scoffed. "way to change the subject." Applebloom smiled as best she could. "Well, it's the same old same old. everyone's doing what they do best, kids are celebrating winter break. everyone's doing fine."

Applebloom gave a warm chuckle. "Good. ... and how's Applejack?"

"Doing good. She wants to have another baby and Zilver is counter arguing that Peppy is enough."

Applebloom chuckled again. "Yeah. sounds like them. and Rarity?"

"Doing good. Fire Ruby has the both of us doing somersaults. i told her not to try that new highly-caffeinated soda when it came out while she was pregnant but Rarity didn't listen."

"Speaking of babies, Celestia says your gonna have one yourself."

"What?! i'm not even-- oh... with Tiara."

"yep. she told us what happened when she came back. Sounds like she had a tough time in Trottingham."

Applebloom sighed again. "And most of it was Green Star's fault. but she's surviving. She's like Twilight; it may be a rape baby but she's still going to love it just the same. and i'm like Halo in that sense; it may not be mine but i'm still going to love her just the same."

Spike smiled. guess Twilight is rubbing off on her. "you know, i have to admit, i was surprised to see that you hooked up with Diamond Tiara of all ponies. weren't you two the worst of enemies?"

Spike remembers that? man, she feels embarrassed. "yeah, but... but recently, i saw that she was a very sensitive and wounded soul. And one thing led to another and we discovered that we were in love with each other; have been since grade school." She closed her eyes and tried to visualize her. "Her flowing mane... her gentle smile... her warm eyes... her lavender smell... these are just a few of the things i love about her. and things i would never trade for anything."

gee, that sounds very familiar. sounds very much how Spike felt... how he still feels... about Rarity. "I can see that."

it also gave Applebloom her answer. She cares about Tiara too much to leave. "And that's why... why i have to stay. i have to protect her from Green Star, even if it costs me my life. at least then, Tiara and Crown will be at peace."

now that's true love. shame they never saw it sooner. "Let's hope it doesn't come to that."

"agreed... i love her and i want to be with her."

a silence fell on the two old friends, a silence that was broken by a sudden shout. "Hey! Dragon Boy!" both Spike and Applebloom turned in the direction the shout came from.

Tiara walked up, dragging Ruby behind her. "You mind talking to your kid!? She's completely rude!"

Spike's mouth dropped a bit then looked to Applebloom, who chuckled nervously. "Well... some things never change."

"Applebloom?" Tiara pulled the lazy filly over. "what are you doing here? you know this drake?"

Applebloom chuckled and hopped over the bench. "You should too. Remember Twilight's little assistant?"

"Spike? that little baby dragon? yeah, what about him?"

Applebloom chuckled and tilted Tiara's head to the dragon. "You're looking at him. this is Spike." Spike waved hello.

if she had a drink, Tiara would be spitting it up. "Spike!?! Little baby dragon Spike?"

Spike chuckled. "I think grown up would be a better term."

This is unbelievable. the last time she saw Spike, he was barely as big as them when they were fillies. now he's that big? "Wow... seems like it was just yesterday that you were pinning for Rarity. how did that turn out, by the way?"

"Married her. had 2 kids." He looked past Tiara. "one of whom you have by the ear."

One of whom sh... OH, that kid. Tiara let Ruby go. she ran behind her father. "Dad! This mean Mare yelled at me and hurt me!"

"I did not. i was just walking around when she fell out of a tree and landed on my back, making us fall. i told her to apologize cause she could've harmed Crown but she didn't!"

Spike sternly looked to his daughter. "This true, Ruby?" he asked, giving her a very stern and very mean look.

crap! the face! she can't fight that mean face. "Argh! it's true! it's all true!"

Spike smugly smiled and turned to Applebloom. "I learned that trick from Fluttershy." Applebloom exclaimed in understandment. she saw that look when 'Shy went after a Cockatrice with it. Spike returned his attention to Ruby. "Now apologize to the nice lady!"

Ruby winced and walked halfway to her. "I... i'm sorry."

"And make sure you don't forget it!" Tiara sternly said.

Spike slightly winced and looked back to Applebloom. "i can see what kind of mother she's going to turn out to be."

Applebloom shrugged nervously with a chuckle.

a sudden chill filled the air, making the mares shiver.

"Great. here comes winter!" Tiara angrily said with a shiver.

Spike and Fire Ruby weren't effected. they're dragons, half dragon in Ruby's case, so their internal fire is keeping them warm. "you guys have a place to stay?" Applebloom asked.

"No." Ruby abruptly said.

"What Ruby means to say is that we didn't get a apartment yet."

Applebloom went 'pbbt'. "no no no. no family of mine is going to stay in some sleazy apartment. You're staying with us. i'm staying at this great place with my cousin Zim. and it's just great. you'll love it!"

Spike and Ruby looked at each other. "better then nothing." they both said.

Zim, Snowdrop, High Rise, Loose Cannon, Blade, and Gentle Breeze sat around a table in ZIm's living room, playing a board game. this world's version of Monopoly.

"I believe i will buy parkway." Rise said, paying the game money to Zim, who was the banker in this game.

the door opened wide, bringing in a big chill that made them all shiver. Tiara and Ruby were blown in by the fierce wind outside. it was powerful enough to give Spike and Applebloom trouble as they closed it.

"What the heck is going on out there?" Cannon asked.

Spike and Applebloom finally got the door closed. Applebloom turned, leaned on the door, and fell. "That was intense."

Tiara shook all the snow off of her like a dog. "There's a big storm going on outside."

"A storm?" everyone looked to High Rise.

Rise was putting a nacho in her mouth when she noticed them. "What? i wasn't aware of a storm for tonight. it wasn't in the memo i got!"

"I'm sure someone somewhere was over-zealous." Spike said, brushing the snow off of him.

Breeze titled his head at the new drake. "Who is this?"

Applebloom got up and shook the snow off. "This is my Uncle Spike. he was Aunt Twilight's assistant when he was younger. practically her son. He married Rarity, the local fashionista, and they had two kids." more snow shot into the air. the dragon/pony hybrid shook the fire off her back then used her breath to melt the rest off her hooves. "One of whom is here with us."

"Man, that is a bad storm!" Ruby complained.

Applebloom rolled her eyes and ignored her. "is it okay if Spike and Fire Ruby stay with us for the night? they're leaving in the morning to head back to Ponyville."

Zim's answer wasn't one he thought about. "Sure. i don't mind. Mi Casa Es Su Casa.."

"Thanks, Zim."

Blade yawned, feeling tired from the long day she had. "I'm tired. i'm gonna head home."

"Yeah. seems like that time of night." Cannon said as he stretched. those two and their special someone's got up and headed for home.

Spike whistled at the variety in her friends. "You got quite the friends, Applebloom."

"they're not mine. they're Tiara's. i just got into the group because we knew each other."

"Ah."

the door opened again and the 4 of them came back, all of them covered in snow.

"That was fast." Tiara joked.

Rise growled and brushed the snow off her mouth. "It's a fricken blizzard; there's a fricken blizzard going on out there!"

"A Blizzard!?" Applebloom went to the window and pulled back the curtains. the street lamps, which be easily seen, were obscured from view. and they are on. "Oh, wow. there is a blizzard! and a very bad one! but i don't understand. there's supposed to be no blizzards. the Pegasi said so."

"Oh!" Ruby smacked herself in the head. "I forgot to tell you! on the way here, i heard a Windigo."

"A Windigo!?!" everyone exclaimed.

"Yeah. i heard the whinny. it was far off but i heard it."

Dragons do have exceptional hearing, and Hybrids were even better. so she must've heard a Windigo somewhere out there.

"now what?" Snowdrop asked.

This was quite the situation. no telling how long they will be trapped in the house. "I guess we wait it out." Zim said. "We have enough food in the kitchen and the basement to weather out a blizzard, least for a week or two."

that reminded Applebloom. "OH! i have to go check on Helios!" she ran out though the kitchen and to the backyard.

Spike sighed. "Guess i better let Rarity know we're gonna be stuck here for awhile."

Ruby whined. "But not too long, right? Hearth's Warming Eve is next week."

"I'm sure the blizzard will clear out by then, Ruby. we won't be stuck here for Hearth's Warming Eve."

Hearth's Warming Eve

Hearth's Warming Eve. Equestria's version of Christmas.

Way back when, it was to celebrate the unity of the 3 pony tribes and Equestria's founding. and like with Jesus and Christmas, the holiday evolved to include the pony version of Santa Claus and presents, very crummy specials, and even visits from the Snow Leopard and Reindeer villages in the arctic.

well, every town gets a visit, except for one this year. that is Trottingham.

it is in the middle of a most terrible blizzard brought on by Windigoes, who were lured to Trottingham by Applebloom's, Tiara's, and Green Star's little bout these past few months. the Blizzard has been going on for a good couple of weeks.

nobody in town was not prepared for a blizzard, however. they live close to the arctic so they all figured Windigoes would hit the town sooner or later. all of the buildings, even the ones used by the homeless, are stocked up for a month long blizzard with generators, food, and blankets.

ZIm's place was crowded with all of his friends having been stuck there for 2 weeks and the cabin fever is starting to get to some of them. among them are Applebloom's relatives; her dragon Uncle Spike and his 5 year old hybrid daughter Fire Ruby. 10 people in a 2 story house? sounds very much like a scenario out of Full Stable.

a series of tarps flapped in the wind, holding the snow back as best it could. the tarps are protecting Helios, who is too big to be inside the house. he's not cold; thanks to the fire in his stomach, he can weather the weather.

the door from the kitchen opened and a bundled up Applebloom walked out. "How you doing, Helios?"

the Crystal Dragon growled. he's been though worse.

Applebloom dragged a slab of meat out with her and put it in from of him. "Here's lunch." she looked at the flapping tarps, sighed and saw down. "I hope this storm lets up soon. everyone's starting to feel the pressure of being trapped for 2 weeks." Helios growled in acknowledged. he knows the feeling. he barely has enough room to move around so he's feeling more cramped then the rest of them.

Applebloom got up and patted Helios on the neck. "Well... hope it ends tomorrow, right?" she went back into the house, closing the door as she did.

"(..... sorry we can't be home for Hearth's Warming Eve, Rarity. this storm has been murder on all of us. but we're still doing fine. we have enough supplies to last a couple more weeks. hopefully this storm will let up be then. give Filigree my love and tell Applejack that Applebloom is doing fine.

Love, Spike.)"

Spike finished up the latest letter for home. done, he closed the letter and sent it on it's way the way he does best. He's dealing with this imprisonment fine. it's Fire Ruby that's starting to go crazy. thank goodness there's all these movies and still broadcasting tv channels, otherwise she'd have gone berserk.

he got up, stretched, and headed downstairs.

The TV blared a news report from a tv station in the nearby city of Maredrid played. years ago, it was destroyed in the Winter War, turning the city into a crater. the residents who survived have returned and rebuilt, with the Changelings that destroyed the city helping. they're still rebuilding but they got the big stuff done already, such as the suburbs and the big important buildings such as city hall. the male gryphon, who always lead all news segments, and the female earth pony reported on this little situation.

"...the entire city of Trottingham has been under the weather lately as a powerful snow storm moved into the area, blanketing the city in deep, deep snow."

"indeed. according to witnesses and letters from the inside of the storm..." everyone in the house looked to Spike. obviously, the letters are from him. "...Windigoes have besieged the city in a large and violent blizzard brought on by a little feud between two individuals inside the city. and for those who don't know, Windigoes are attracted to disharmony and discord and these two have been both of these for the past 5 months."

they all looked to Applebloom with course expressions, who had just come back in. she chuckled nervously. "At least they didn't mention our names."

"...it's highly likely that the Windigoes will continue to besiege the city until the end of winter. hopefully, the citizens of Trottingham can survive until then."

Breeze switched the tv off and sighed. "This is not how i expected how to spend Hearth's Warming Eve; trapped in a house for weeks."

Fire Ruby groaned. "I know. i had some good presents waiting for me back home; this Haystaion 4 with the new Transformares video game."

Spike looked at her with a raised eyebrow. "How did you know about that?" Ruby squeaked. oh, she's busted. "That game was hidden deep in your mother's closet. not even Filigree knew about it until today."

Ruby made a annoying noise for a small moment, then made a small squeaking noise as she moved her lips to the side. "I..... better go check on Helios." she turned and sped out of the room.

Spike groaned and pinched his eyes. "that girl's gonna be the death of me."

"It was peachy being her babysitter as well." Applebloom said with a huff. "The kid was like a little demon."

"And you know that from personal experience, Applebloom?" Rise asked before taking a drink of her hot cocoa.

Personal Experience? "What do you mean by that, High Rise?"

"Weren't you a little demon yourself? i mean, that would explain a lot."

Oh, no. this cannot be good. it made everyone else back up in fear. "Why would i be a demon when i was a kid?"

Rise scoffed. "Well, look at what you and Star brought on us."

she can't be suggesting what she is suggesting. "Are you saying i brought on this blizzard?"

"... well, look at the facts." Cannon said, chiming in. "You and Star were having a little war going on for quite some time now. and it only got more worse when you starting going out with Tiara."

Now Tiara got pissy. "What do you saying, that it's our fault?" She angrily asked.

"Look at the evidence!" Rise and Cannon said in unison.

"It wasn't their fault." Blade said. "It was Green Star's fault." Snowdrop nodded in agreement.

"Oh, sure, blame the Gryphon." Zim said. "it was mostly Applebloom's fault anyway!"

"ZIM!" Applebloom exclaimed.

"He's right!" Breeze said. that made Blade's mouth drop. he's actually agreeing with them? "IF Applebloom had just stayed home in Ponyville, this whole mess could've been avoided."

He's actually saying that? Breeze, Rise, Cannon, and Zim, her own cousin, are actually saying that?! Applebloom couldn't believe this. "You can't blame this all on me! Green Star shares at least 3/4 of the blame with his sadistic attitude and him closing down my practice; before i even had a chance to open it, mind you!"

"That doesn't change the fact!" the 4 opposing Applebloom exclaimed.

"Yes it does!" 'Bloom, Tiara, Snowdrop, and Blade exclaimed back.

both groups began to argue like a certain government, with neither side even bothering to listen. the arguing definitely got on Spike's nerves. he gets enough of this back home when the town yells at Pinkie, Marble, and Cotton for inexplicably starting parties. and when Rarity and Applejack have their world-famous arguments about cleanliness. even Filigree and Peppy don't want to be a part of that. but this... this is just insane.

it got so on his nerves, he dipped into his feral side a bit, got between the groups, and breathed green fire as he roared. "Enough!" he yelled. that made both groups shut up. "This is asinine and you know it! We're all just antsy because we've been stuck in this house for a couple weeks and you all know that!"

both groups just stood there, staring at each other intently. Applebloom angrily scoffed then went upstairs. "you think you know somepony, then something like this happens!" she stopped halfway and looked back. "I wish i had better friends! and a much better cousin!" she stormed up, not wanting to be near them.

Tiara angrily looked back to her friends then headed up after her Marefriend.

Rise angrily closed her eyes and scoffed. "I know i'm right."

Spike groaned with a sigh and pinched his eyes. Faust... these ponies are just going to be the death of him. everyone was so disgruntled, they couldn't bare to look at each other again.

this little episode was witnessed by a little hybrid, who saw the whole thing. not long after it was over, she ducked out of the kitchen and into the backyard with Helios.

she sat down next to the dragon and sighed. "Be glad you didn't hear that, Helios." she sadly said, something that wasn't her character. he did, actually. "I never saw them so angry at each other. and i know Mom and Aunt Applejack argue, but nothing on this level. I never thought grown-ups could act like that." Helios bit down onto the bone, stripping the last of the meat off. "And all before Hearth's Warming Eve, too. this is suppose to be a happy time, not... this."

she leaned back on the dragon, feeling down. Nobodies supposed to be upset around Hearth's Warming Eve. it's just... unneeded. true, she could blame the Windigoes but that's only part of the problem.

that's when it hit her; a delicious idea so good, it made her giggle. "That'll work."

Night quickly fell on the town, though with all that snow, it's hard to tell the difference. Applebloom angrily sulked, not being able to sleep. Her own cousin is blaming this whole mess on her, when it's Green Star who's at fault for all this, not her. at least Tiara believes that it's Star as well.

she sighed then looked to her left at Tiara's sleeping form. as much as she hates to admit it, the blame is to be separated into 3; Applebloom, Green Star, and Tiara. it was thanks to the 3 of them that this blizzard is raging across the city.

Applebloom sat up for a moment, doing nothing except thinking. maybe this was all her fault. maybe she was to blame for this. she got out of bed and headed for the window. she opened the curtains and looked at the raging blizzard outside.

Tiara mumbled as she rolled over, leg stretched out to wrapped around Applebloom's. when it met with nothing expect bedsheets, it woke her up. she noticed that her marefriend wasn't there. she got up and saw her standing at the window, looking out at the blizzard.

"Applebloom... what are you doing up?"

'Bloom heard her voice and looked back. "What are you doing up?"

"I woke up. duh." Tiara got out of bed and headed over to her. she noticed that Applebloom wasn't looking to well. "Are you okay?"

Applebloom closed her eyes and sighed. "No... no i'm not." she said in a course voice. "maybe... maybe Zim and the others are right. maybe this whole mess is my fault."

Tiara shook her head. "Don't say that, 'Bloom. this blizzard isn't your fault. My friends would've gone and done a little war with Green Star themselves, making this come by their own hands. er, hooves. plus, Green Star is one of the most mean Gryphon's out there. he alone could've brought this on."

Applebloom sadly looked to the floor then to Tiara. "then why do i feel so guilty?"

Tiara got close and nuzzled up next to her. "Because Zim and the others have you convinced that it is. and it's not. it's Green Star's for egging us all on. this goes back to him."

Applebloom isn't so sure. all of them really got to her. and she remembers what Green Star said; if she stays, he'll do something horrible to Tiara and she doesn't want that. she gently shoved Tiara away and walked to the door.

"Coming here... it was a mistake..." she sadly said. "As soon as this blizzard lets up... i'm going home..." she opened it and headed out.

Tiara's heart sank a bit. "Applebloom... i don't want you to leave..." she walked to the door to go after her, but stopped before her hoof touched the knob. Applebloom's mind won't change this easily. it's gonna be too hard. she had to deal with the sources of the problem.

The windows were baked with what sun broke though the blizzard. everyone was feeling crummy from last night. they all said some things they didn't mean to say. they are just so tired of being locked up. and none of them wanted to see Applebloom. it was going to be a tough day. add that it's Hearth's Warming Eve and this is just the worst day ever. but they can't be locked in their rooms all day. they'll have to confront her sooner or later. better to do it sooner.

they were barely out of their doors when Tiara cornered them. "What the hell is wrong with all of you!?"

"What do you mean?" a sleepy Rise asked.

"Yesterday! when you all said that Applebloom shouldn't have come to Trottingham!?"

oh... that. "Well, not all of us were against her." Snowdrop said.

"I know that! i'm talking to those who were! Especially you, Zim! You're her cousin! why would you say such things to your own family!?" that hit him close to home.

well, she doesn't need to her coffee now. "We.... we didn't mean it." Rise said. "We're just on edge because to this blizzard. we want out."

"I know the feeling but i'm not going to snap at a friend who worked hard to get where she is!" Tiara exclaimed. "and now thanks to you all, Applebloom is seriously considering moving back to Ponyville! thanks to you all!" oh... they didn't want that. "For the first time in my life, i got something special and now you all of you are running her out of town!"

"We... we didn't mean for that to happen."

"Well, it's happening! now go and apologize before she does something stupid!"

the bathroom door opened. "No need." Applebloom said as she walked out. practically everyone stiffened.

"How... how long have you been in there?" Cannon asked.

"All night, crying at what you guys said last night!" She exclaimed loudly. "How could you all say that to me? especially you, Zim? we're family and you agree with all of them that i'm to blame for all this!?" Zim didn't respond. this was not what he wanted to happen. either way, it gave her her answer. "I see. as soon as this blizzard lets up, i'm going home! hope your all happy!" she stormed downstairs.

Tiara angrily looked back to her so-called friends then went after her.

"Applebloom, we didn't mean anything by it." Rise said. Applebloom stormed into the living room, kicking the door shut on Tiara. it missed her by a few inches but it did scare her. she never saw Applebloom like this, not even when they were fillies.

she opened the door and went after her again. "Applebloom, listen, th--" they all walked into the living room where Applebloom was. they saw something they didn't quite expect.

as it had been very dismal, ZIm didn't have time to put up Hearth's Warming Eve decorations. so imagine his surprise as he walked in, seeing the entire living room decorated for the holiday. streamers, sparkling lights, stockings, even a Douglas Fir from out back, covered in lights and decorations.

they didn't have to wonder who could've done this. the culprit was sound asleep on the couch, holding a streamer in her clawed hooves.

Spike smiled, walked over, and lightly shook her shoulder. "Ruby?" the dragon/pony hybrid stirred and woke up. "Did you do all this?"

Ruby sat up and rubbed her eyes. "Yeah."

"Why?"

"Because everyone was arguing and being mean. no one should do that on Hearth's Warming Eve. it's a time to be happy, right?"

that's right. they all completely forgot that this was Hearth's Warming Eve; a time to be happy and joyous. all this arguing and fighting has gotten to them. it also made Applebloom remember a promise she made to her niece. a promise that she would always be as happy as her. and apologetic.

fortunately, Rise beat her too it. "Applebloom... i'm sorry for what i said. i'm just so tired of being so cooped up, i had to lash out at someone. sorry you were on the receiving end."

"Ditto." Zim, Cannon, and Breeze said.

Applebloom closed her eyes and smiled. "I forgive you. i wasn't exactly being pleasant myself."

"Guess we all forgot what it's like to be happy." Snowdrop said. "With what happened these past few months, i guess we all forgot to smile and laugh. we should really try and smile more often."

Applebloom softly chuckled. "You sound like my aunt Pinkie Pie. she wants everyone to smile as well." she closed her eyes again. she opened them and looked to her friends. "Glad i ran into you guys. guess we all needed some perspective."

"Yeah." Rise looked over to the kid. "Thanks for setting this up, Ruby. really helped us." Ruby closed her eyes and smiled with a giggle.

then something happened they didn't suspect. Sunlight shone though the windows. "Sun?" curious, Blade went to the door and opened it. the sunlight hit them all with a sudden shine, making them cover their eyes. it'd been two weeks since they saw it so it was understandable. when they looked, they saw something that made them gasp.

the blizzard had stopped last night and the sun shown on a snow covered Trottingham. the snow shimmered in the morning sun, making it sparkle. and it wasn't just the city. the surrounding countryside, up to 30 miles, was covered in 10-feet high snow.

everyone gasped in awe! "Whoa!" this was the most beautiful thing they ever saw.

"Wait. what happened to the Windigoes?" Snowdrop asked.

Breeze shrugged. "erh, something must've happened to them. maybe the princess' got some free time and took care of them. or maybe they moved on by themselves."

"Well, i know it wasn't us." Rise said. "we just made up. storm and monsters causing it can't go in just a few seconds."

"Who cares?" Tiara fell down into the snow and sighed. "I'm just happy to stretch and be out of that cramped house."

"You ain't the only one." Applebloom said as Helios flew overhead.

Tiara snickered and pulled her marefriend down. "Not exactly the best Hearth's Warming Eve. but as long as it's with you, i'm good." Applebloom smiled and kissed her on the snout.

a sudden snowball hit the both of them in the head, ruining the moment. they looked in the direction it came from and saw Ruby bounced a snowball in her hooves. "You gonna lay there and be all lovey dovey or are you gonna play?"

'Bloom and Tiara looked at each other and snickered evilly.

time to get some revenge. snowball style.

and after it was done, Tiara would go and have a 'word' with the bank.

First Day on the Job

Applebloom sat alone in her room, trying to get a pencil to balance. all that hard work getting her practice how she likes it and Green Star goes and yanks it away from her. he was able to convince the bank somehow that her practice will fail on day one and end up costing them. thanks to that, they closed it 3 weeks from opening day.

All that hard work, just to have it taken away. and with that Blizzard, it's 10 feet deep in snow and likely snowed out inside. this has been the worst Hearth's Warming Eve of her life. worse then when her friends left to go do what they were born to do. She was the last one of their group to leave Ponyville. the holiday before that; very, very bad.

Well... it could be worse. she could be dead. or worse. plus, she has Diamond Tiara and that's all that matters. now she just needs to find a job. wonder if Trottingham has a apple farm. and she knows Spike will tell Applejack about what's going on, despite her telling him not to. If not him, then Ruby definitively will. and if that happens then Applejack will tell Celestia or Luna or Cadence.

A knock came from her door. it's either Zim or Snowdrop coming to give her some lame support. May as well get it over with. "Come in, you two."

the door opened and the knocker entered. much to her surprise, it wasn't Zim or Snowdrop. "how are you doing?" Tiara asked as she entered. Applebloom flicked the pencil onto his desk. she rolled over and sputtered. "Still crummy?"

"What do you expect Tiara? this should be my opening day. i worked hard to get that practice how i liked it; days of blood and sweat and tears went into it. then Green Star happened and..." she finished with a exasperated groan.

Tiara slowly stopped in mid-stride. As much as she hates to admit it, this is going to help with her surprise. But she had to play the part. "Applebloom... sitting around moping won't help with anything."

Applebloom rolled to the side, facing away. "leave me in peace, Tiara. this month has already been crappy."

Tiara didn't leave. she impatiently tapped her hoof on the floor as her lips pouted to the side. this is going to be a challenge. She's not afraid to put a strain on her body for this. She walked to the other side and put her face in front of hers. "Applebloom..."

Applebloom rolled to the other side and pulled the blanket over her. "Leave me alone."

Tiara angrily pouted. That's it. Now the horseshoes come off. she grabbed Applebloom's bed and pulled it up. the ex-apple farmer yelped as she slid off it and onto the floor.

"Hey! what was that for?!" via magic, a cloth wrapped around her eyes, blinding her. "TIara? what's going on?"

Tiara stood Applebloom up and lead her out the door. "it's a little surprise i have planned."

"What, that a Earth Pony is able to use magic?"

Tiara rolled her eyes. "no, you dunderhead. Just come on." she walked to the door and left it wide open. "follow my voice. follow the sultry sound of my voice."

Applebloom grumbled as she rolled her eyes. May as well follow along with it. "Tiara..." she took a step and ran into the rim of the door. ".... i'm gonna go with ow."

The rest of Tiara's and Applebloom's friends were hard at work, getting their surprise ready. Blade and Rise were busy sanding the ceiling while the rest were getting things such as potted plants in place.

"you think Applebloom will like this?" Breeze asked, carrying a shrub on his back.

"she's got to. We've been working hard on this." Cannon flew up and hammed a nail in with his hoof. "this'll be a delightful surprise for her, considering all that happened."

Snowdrop flew up from behind a desk and placed a picture on it. the picture was of all of them. "i sure hope so."

they were very nearly done when Zim ran in. "Tiara's coming and she's got Applebloom."

that was their cue. they ducked down behind the desk and hid.

"Ow!"

Applebloom tripped over a outdoor chair and fell to the ground. "This blindfold thing wasn't a good idea if we're down town Tiara." she got up, took a few steps, and tripped over a table, sending her, it, and the current patrons tea to the ground.

Tiara just watched this happen. "Yeah..... think i should've had Breeze carry you here." Applebloom got up and was able to get a stride in. Tiara led her in front of a building and halted her. Tiara moved to the side so she can get a good look. "Okay. look and see."

Applebloom scoffed. What does Tiara have to show her that's downtown? and why did she need a blindfold? if this is some surprise family visit, she's gonna be pissed. she removed the blindfold and saw... "My practice?"

yep yep. She was looking directly at her ex-repossessed veterinary practice. it was... open and ready. there was a Open Sign hanging off the door. she was able to see plants and chairs inside. the main sign had this veterinary practice called 'The Apple's Bloom' with her Cutie Mark, Helio's head, in bright colors.

Applebloom couldn't believe this. her practice was... open. "Tiara..." she gasped. "What..... what is this?"

"Your vet practice." Tiara walked up to her and held out a piece of paper. it was the deed. "Green Star may have the head banker's ear, but so does my dad. he's the town accountant, remember?" Applebloom remembers but she didn't tear her gaze away from the deed. "Anyway, i told Dad what had happened and he was able to convince the banker to give him the deed to the place and he, in turn, gave it to me." She walked over and patted Applebloom on the back. "Happy Hearth's Warming Eve, Applebloom."

Applebloom crumbled up the deed in a fit of emotion. she smiled and hugged her secret marefriend. "You are just the best, Tiara. just the best." Tiara blushed and hugged back. after a long good embrace, they broke it before the townsfolk started to look. "now why weren't you like this when we were fillies?" Tiara wondered that herself and just shrugged. she chuckled and blushed nervously in the process.

Applebloom looked up at her practice with a big smile. after all this time, it's finally open. .... Wait a tick. she wasn't even close to opening when Green Star foreclosed. how could it be ready now? curious to find out, she opened the door and went inside. What she saw really surprised her.

the entire lobby was completely furnished with comfortable chairs, a big enough desk for more then 2 tellers, and a number of potted plants; the kind you would normally see in any kind of hospital.

Tiara strolled in and positioned herself beside her. "You like?" Applebloom nodded in awe. "yeah. ever since i got it back, we worked non-stop to get this ready."

"We?"

on cue, the rest of the gang burst out from behind the desk. "SURPRISE!!!"

Applebloom jumped in her skin. "Whoa! Guys? you did all this?"

"Every bit." Rise said as she plopped herself on the desk. "also drained our accounts. we put every bit we had into this to make sure it's what you like."

Applebloom was finding this hard to believe. they all put their sweat, their tears, even their money into this. and just a week ago, they were ready to kill each other. of course, that was the blizzard's fault. "You all... did this?"

"Sure did." Cannon said. "we worked all night to make it just right."

Just right? "How do you know what i wanted?"

"You talk in your sleep." Tiara mentioned. that made Applebloom's face turn red. that's one aspect she wishes Tiara didn't know. "But, tell us? do you like it?"

Like it? she loved it! and with the fact that her friends put in blood, sweat, money, and tears to construct this for her. she is so lucky to have friends like them. "it's perfect." they all smiled. good. they put a lot of work into this. if she hated this, then they would feel like this was for nothing. with that out of the way, Applebloom had to squeal in anticipation. "EEE! YES YES YES YES YES!!!"

Breeze chuckled. "well, remember, this is your opening day. you can't expect someone to walk in on Day 1 with a pet problem. plus, you're competing with another Vet across town."

Applebloom stopped bouncing and chuckled while nervously scratching her neck. "I know, i know. doesn't mean i'm still not excited." she clapped her front hooves together and rubbed them nervously. "I better go check the back rooms. see if they're good." she hopped down and went to go check.

Blade waited until Applebloom was out of hearing range. "are you all sure this place will work? i mean, this is a huge risk we're taking, investing into this place."

"We all knew the risks." Tiara said. even she wasn't feeling the love for this place. "best we can do is hope is that things work out." everyone agreed with that. hopefully someone will come in soon, right?

Green Star munched on a pineapple as he flew though town. he felt good about himself, having pretty much run that Applebloom bitch out of town. she's gone and he can make his move to get Tiara.

He passed by and glanced up at a shop called the Apple's Bloom Veterinary Prac-- son of a bitch, she opened it. that made him lose his lunch.

How the hell was she able to get it back? he made the bank foreclose on it! How could she hav-- Tiara got it back. damn, he forgot that her dad was the Town Treasurer. Dammit! Applebloom is still in town! He's gonna have to deal with this his own way.

Hope he has enough Kerosene.

From the inside, the group watched as Green Star flew away from the Practice. they all angrily looked in his direction.

"He's up to something." Zim angrily muttered.

"You think?" everyone asked.

Applebloom came out from the back, having seen the many rooms she herself had outlined. She overheard them talking, about how this place is a huge risk. She's not going to lie; there's a pretty huge chance that this will blow up in her face. But, as Applejack said, better to try then to do nothing. "Well, the place looks awesome!" she truthfully said with glee.

"we were hoping it would." Snowdrop said.

"Now i just need my first patient." She eyed her friends suspiciously. "Anyone's pet sick?"

"Don't have one." all but Breeze said. and that's true. they died from natural causes.

Applebloom noticed that the pony/dragon hybrid didn't say anything. "What about you, Breeze? you live on a farm."

"A Crop Farm. you want cattle, talk to a butcher."

Applebloom's brow furrowed. gee, what great friends. and she can't have Helios as her first patient; that'd be embarrassing. well, the day's still young. she's got 8 hours. hopefully someone will come in with a sick pet by then.

It's been 5

It's been 5 hours since her practice opened and not one patient. and everyone was getting impatient.

Rise impatiently tapped her hooves on the ground. "Herrrrrr...... oh, come on! there's no way every pet in Trottingham is healthy!"

"Either that or they're all at Emil's." Cannon said. "he has been around for 20 years."

Applebloom knew that. she did her research. She figured that a place with only one other Vet would be a good place to set up. easier said then done. and going against someone as loved as that Gryphon, this was a long shot.

"i'm about ready to go out and buy a sick pet and just bring her here." Rise exclaimed.

Applebloom's about to let her. first day and she's failing. She needs a boost. But first, she's gotta take care of the call of nature. "I'll be back. i gotta go to the bathroom." she got up and left.

Applebloom sighed as she sat down. There's got to be a way to bring in someone to her practice. it was too late to print fliers and spread them around. Something good has to come around soon.

the bathroom door creaked open and hoof-drops came up. "Applebloom?"

Its Tiara. figures. "I'm busy, T. If you have to go to the bathroom, go to another stall. there's plenty."

"I'm not here for that." figures. it's always something. "Look, you know ever business doesn't take off on the first day. it usually takes a week or ever more. or they don't take off at all. that's just how business works."

"i know, TIara, and i was aware of that when i decided to start this. Still doesn't mean i wasn't excited." a pregnant pause fell on the two of them. "Listen, if this ends up tanking, i'm still thankful you did this for me."

"It's okay."

Applebloom smiled. "How did i ever score a marefriend like you?"

"If Req were here, she'd say fate."

the two of them lightly chuckled. "Yeah. sounds like her."

Applebloom flushed the toilet and walked out of the stall. "good to see we still have senses of humor."

"Yeah." Applebloom leaned in to nuzzle but Tiara backed away, which has her confused. *tick tick tick tick tick tick. Ding!* "oh, right! i just went.... yeah...." she headed over to the sink.

"...e's swallowed something she shouldn't have and i can't get it out."

When Tiara and Applebloom came back from the bathroom, they heard a voice they never heard before. they walked into the lobby to see a rich kid there with a snake; a Boa Constrictor. "What's going on?"

the gang looked in their direction. the Kid bounded over the desk. "You gotta help Kimmy. she swallowed a steel can and i'm worried she's going to rip apart her insides."

Tiara knows Applebloom would hit her if she asked this, but as she's pregnant, she's got a excuse. "So... why aren't you at Emil's Practice?"

"he's busy. i'm on the bottom of the list! please, you have to help her."

Applebloom looked to the snake, then back to the kid. not what she expected for her first patient, but it's better then nothing. "I can try."

The Snake, being one of those cartoon ones, blinked in surprise as it was placed on the examination table.

"you said she swallowed a can?" Applebloom asked as she walked in front of it.

the kid climbed up on one of the stools. "yeah. a steel one. and it was ripped open so it's very sharp."

Well, that's not good. that could rip her insides out. "Okay. this is going to be tricky." she looked the snake over to try and find a good way to get that can out. after a few few minutes of thinking, she could only think of one solution. she walked over to a nearby counter and pulled out some gloves. "Open her mouth. i'm going in."

the snake gave the camera a surprised look.

several minutes later, the 3 of them came from the back, the snake's eyes doing that dizzy thing from Anime's.

"Okay..." Applebloom tossed the tin can away. "that's 20 bits. Cash or Credit?"

"Cash." the kid pulled out a coin purse, pulled out 20 bits, and tossed them to her. "and thanks." he headed for the door, pulling the wagon that had his snake with it.

"And tell your friends about us." Applebloom called out.

"I will." he walked out and headed for home.

Applebloom turned to head back to the front desk when her friends slid in from all sides. "So...?"

"So what?" 'Bloom replied. "i got the can out and i got paid. i'd say i'm on the road to the high time."

Zim chuckled. "yeah. all it takes is one person to set in motion events that--"

Applebloom stammered and stopped him there. "Don't go all philosophical, please? i don't need it." Snowdrop chuckled at that. Zim angrily growled at her.

Blade looked out the window to the outside world. "i think i recognize that kid. can't remember where."

"yeah, i think i recognize him as well." Cannon muttered.

"Whoa!" everyone looked to Applebloom, who was looking at her money. "He gave me a 100 dollar Bit!"

"What!?!" everyone ran to her and looked. yep. 100 dollar bit. and the kid gave her 5, so that's 500 bits right there. "That's a lot of money!"

and it also gave Cannon and Blade the answer to who that kid was. "Wait! that was Twists's Kid!" they both said.

Applebloom went wide-eyed. that was a name she never expected to hear again. "Twist?" she looked to Tiara. she didn't know Twist was here either.

"You never heard of her?" Rise asked. "Twist is one of the richest mares in town! she built a candy company from the ground up that sells it's products world-wide! only place that's not in it's sights is Ponyville."

Ponyville... guess Twist remembers that Mr. and Mrs. Cake and Pinkie Pie have that town covered in the sweets category. Applebloom looked down at the bits. her old lisping fiend is now a world-famous entrepreneur. who would've thought?

Author's Note

give you 3 guesses who's coming in next chapter.

Twist and Shout

YEAH!!!

Time to Celebrate!!!

in the week following her Veterinary Practice opening, Applebloom quickly grew in popularity. that's thanks to her first customer being the son of one of the richest ponies on the planet! and it's Twist, of all mares. Twist!! Her old lisping friend from before she met Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle. She always figured that since she got her Cutie Mark when they were fillies, Twist just stopped hanging out with her. She never figured Twist moved to Trottingham. There wasn't a note or anything. Guess her parents didn't bother to tell. and Tiara, who moved here just a couple of years after her, didn't know about her being here either, so imagine her surprise.

Applebloom felt like looking her up, but didn't feel like it. Twist is now one of the richest Ponies on Equestria, and all that's from a world-wide candy business she founded. or took over or inherited- for some reason, that's the part nobody's been able to figure out. and Applebloom would feel out of place hanging with a wealthy entrepanuer.

............ Imagine how sheds feel if word got out that she and Tiara were dating. Yeesh, even Filthy Rich will be surprised. He hates Filly Foolers.

Back to the first subject. Ever since she helped the son of one of the richest Ponies in Trottingham, and being more gentle and caring and family friendly then the other guy's, Applebloom's Veterinary Practice quickly spread. It even reached the ears of Emil, the only vet in Trottingham before Applebloom came. He offered her a position in his practice but she refused, saying she wishes to do this by herself to prove herself.

She always is stubborn.

High up on a hill overlooking Trottingham, where the rich and elite live, a certain entrepanuer was reading a newspaper from yesterday. She was so busy that she never got the chance to do so. She finished with the second pages and flipped to the third, seeing a face she never saw in years.

Applebloom's face was plastered on a small ad, following by a small article saying, 'the up and coming Vet to give Emil a run for his money.'

the Entrepanuer smiled with a chuckle. "Applebloom..." she closed the paper and chuckled again. "it's been forever." She thought for a moment. "Hmm.... maybe i should look her up.

"CHEERS!!!"

6 mugs and 2 bottles of water clanged together as Applebloom and her Torttingham friends cheered. 1 week and already, her practice is known thoughout the city. It even got the ear of Emil, so that's something. Of course, A.P. has a feeling that that's mostly due to her standing, with her step-brother Zilver being related to Trixie, who's married to Princess Luna. Well, whatever the case, she made it and she's known thoughout the town, too. She can't wait to write home to Applejack about this.

"Let me be the first to say Congratulations to Applebloom." Zim said. "in just a week, she's become as famous as Emil and already has 3 appointments from 3 other rich bigwigs. Congrats, cous."

Applebloom blushed and scratched her neck. "Ah, stop, Zim. you're gonna make me blush."

Zim chuckled like a doofus and took a big swig of his drink. Breeze rolled his eyes and sighed. Zim is a idiot. "So, bet you dodn't expect to be this famous in just a week."

"Yeah. i wasn't planning on being famous. and i wasn't expecting word to get out about me for at least another month."

"That's business for you." Cannon said. "It all depends on the first customer you get, and lucky for you, you got the son of one of the most richest and famous ponies around. and thanks to Word of Mouth, you got famous for helping the pet of Twist's son. Plus, i'm sure it's your approach. Emil is a vet from the Gryphon Kingdom and a city slicker. Your a country girl from a town that lives very close to nature. And you were trained by Fluttershy, the Element of Kindness. That's a plus there."

Applebloom shrugged. "If you say so. Doesn't really matter to me. As long as i have my business and Tiara, i'm happy enough." Tiara went aw and nuzzled up next to her.

All of her friends, however, are peeved. "We don't fit into that equation?" Rise asked.

Oh crud. She forgot that. she chuckled sheepishly and sank in her seat.

*Hic. Hic. Hic.*

She drank way too much. Applebloom drank way too much back there, she's having trouble walking, can't think properly, and even speak right. The only way she's being able to get him is thanks to Tiara. Snowdrop is busy carrying Zim him as well, and he's out cold. Applebloom, on the other hand...

"Heh he hheeeeeeeehhhhh.... you are..... so beautiful, Tiara... *Hic* so..... bucking beautiful..." Tiara knows she's drunk off her plot, but it's still nice to hear a compliment. "Everyo stallion....... mare..... whabeler........ got ynothing on mabrlage...." Yep. one too much. now she's speaking gibberish. She looked to Snowdrop and she rolled her eyes as well. Applebloom cannot hold her liquor.

"Marrrr...... helllllllllll...... sertfgothgjtbeoaoutbg!*%&&#&$(&%^!(%^."

Tiara annoyingly looked to the camera. "Really. sure your not drunk yourself?"

Hey, shut up. just go along with it, okay? besides, think the keyboards acting up.

"Something's acting up but i don't think it's the keyboard."

Hey, i can erase you. all i have to do is hit backspace.

"Shutting up."

Good. now let's get back to this, shall we?

Snowdrop dropped the passed out Zim on their bed and sighed and groaned. He weighs more then he looks. His snoring quickly filled the room and reverberated though her ears.

"Ugh. we need to do something about your snoring." she closed her ears and walked out. she closed the door behind her. She leaned on the door and slid down, sputtering on the way. And that's the father of her baby. Yeesh. Scary thought. "Hope Tiara is having better luck with Applebloom."

"♪......there's always room for you......♪" Applebloom hiccuped again. "♪....if you want to be my friend.....♪" Tiara quickly plopped Applebloom down on her bed. A.P. instantly fell on her side. "♪we are.... we are, on the cruise..................♪"

Tiara groaned with a sigh. Not that song. She hates that show. She never figured Applebloom for a fan.

"Okay.... hopefully you'll be sobered up tomorrow." Applebloom hiccuped in reply. She really can't hold her liquor. "ugh. and your breath smells terrible. I hope alcohol breath doesn't count." She said, remembering her unborn baby. She got up off the floor and groaned; she's getting heavier every day. "Well, i better head for home. I--" Applebloom had fallen asleep when she fell and snored up a storm.

Tiara lightly chuckled at her slumbering form. She walked over and kissed her on the forehead. "Goodnight, Applebloom." She pulled a blanket over Applebloom and headed out the door.

"mnyah..... Taraia..... merryh me..."

Tiara stopped at the door for a moment and looked back. First time she had Applebloom talking in her sleep, but that's not what stopped her. Did Applebloom just say, 'Tiara, Marry Me?' That could just be the alcohol talking but.... then again. She quickly shook her head, dismissing the thought. "Yeah. Probably just the alcohol." she headed out the door and closed it behind her.

Snowdrop picked up some fallen magazines that Zim had the unfortunate of running into on the way in and put them back on the table. At the same time, Tiara came down from above and grabbed her coat.

"Heading home?" Snowdrop asked.

"Yeah. Drunkies asleep, and i think i got a contact high."

Snowdrop lightly chuckled. "same here. You'd figure for being part of the Apple Family, and for just being country folks in general, they'd both be able to hold their liquor."

"Guess not." the both of them said in unison.

Tiara put her coat on one hoof at a time then headed out. "Night, 'Drop."

"Night, Tiara." Snowdrop was too tired to walk all the way back upstairs. So, she laid down on the couch and fell asleep then and there.

Tiara closed the door and headed for home. This would be the first time she would be home since the blizzard. In fact, she wonders if her dad is even worried about her. It has been a while since she actually slept at home. Wonder if he knows about her and Applebloom- he's certainly not letting it be known.

Tiara was barely two steps away when she bumped into a pony heading the opposite direction. "Oh, sorry." Tiara said.

"No no, it's my fault. i didn't watch where i was going." the amber-grey Mare with a long scarlet mane and crimson-colored glasses said. Tiara blinked in suspicion. She feels like she saw this mare before but can't piece it where. Her look made the mare a bit nervous. "Un.... is something wrong?"

Tiara was hesitant with a reply. "No... you just remind me of someone."

"Oh. well, i'm told i have that effect of people." She finished that sentence with a chuckle. "Listen, do you know a Pony named Applebloom? i heard she lives around here. do you know where?"

Applebloom? Tiara got suspicious. Why is she looking for Applebloom? "Yeah... she lives right here." she pointed to the house to their right. "But i'm afraid she won't be able to talk. She had a bit too much to drink and is just out of it."

The Mare was disappointed. "Oh. that's too bad. i was hoping to talk to her."

"Talk to her?" Now Tiara got suspicious. "Okay, who are you and what's your relation to Applebloom? are you looking to buy out her building?"

"What? no no. exactly the opposite. i was just hoping to talk to her. Well, when she walks up, tell her a old friend from Ponyville dropped by." the mare turned and left.

She was barely 5 feet away when Tiara walked up. "Wait, old friend from Ponyvillle?" With that clue, Tiara took another close look. "Wait... Twist? Pepperment Twist?"

Twist raised a eyebrow in confusion. "You... know me?"

the two of them stopped and Tiara walked in front. "It's me. Diamond Tiara. From Mrs. Cheerilee's class?"

Well, this is unexpected. Twist expected to talk to Applebloom. She didn't expect Tiara. "Tiara?" the pregnant mare nodded her head in approval. Of course, as they haven't seen each other since grade school, Twist naturally freaked out. "Whoa!? Tiara! You didn't come here to bully me again, did you?!"

Tiara was confused by her response but realized that she never saw her in 20 years. "Twist, Twist, Twist. i changed. i'm a nice mare now. Ask Applebloom herself when she wakes up."

Twist isn't so sure about that. It takes more then time to change someone, and even then it's not guaranteed. "If you say so. Didn't expect to run into you here."

"Same here. i moved to Trottingham 18 years ago with my dad when he got transferred here."

"Oh. oh, well that'll explain it." Twist muttered.

Tiara just noticed this but... Twist looked different. "Wait... wasn't your hair curly? and didn't you have a lisp? and had freckles?"

"Changed it and lost it." Twist said in quick possibly the simplest way. Tiara gave her a stern look. she needs more info then that. "I changed my hair when i reached puberty. same thing happened with the freckles and lisp. they just went away. Poof."

Tiara exclaimed in understatement. the sudden sound of a chiming bell echoed though the city, signaling that it was now 9 o'clock. "Oh, geez. i better get home." Tiara said with a slight hint of worry.

"Same here. I promised my son i'd read him a bedtime story."

Tiara nodded and headed for home. Twist turned and followed alongside her. "You have a son?" Tiara asked.

"Yeah. Tall Tale. I had him 5 years ago with my husband. He's a Diamond Dog."

If Tiara had a drink, she'd be spitting it up right now. "A Diamond Dog?!"

"Yep. Hound is a nice guy and a gentle soul." Tiara's not arguing. she's just surprised. "Anyway, it was though him and the newspaper that i learned that Applebloom was here. Surprised she moved here, and that you live here. Guess fate works in mysterious ways."

Tiara shrugged. "If you say so. but if you ask me, Fate is overrated." Twist raised a eyebrow in confusion. Tiara gestured back to her belly. "If Fate has a plan for this guy, i don't see it."

"OH! You're pregnant!" Twist cooed.

"Not by choice. i was taken advantage of by a very, very mean Gryphon and now i'm stuck with it." She lowered her head and groaned. "I don't know what i'm going to do. Dad said he would support me financially and Applebloom and my friends are willing to help. But... but I don't know what to do." Twist is surprised. She never saw Tiara like this before. To see her so vulnerable is... Tiara sighed and broke that line of the conversation. "So, what's new with you?"

She should've seen that coming. But Twist didn't pursue it. it's clear this is a tough subject matter for her. "Nothing much." She said, going along with it. "Me and Hound are planning on having another kid but we can't find the time. We're both too busy."

"I can believe that."

"OH, and is it true? Is Applebloom really a duchess?"

Should've expected this to come up. "Technically, yes. there's 2 ways that she is. One of them is that her sister, Applejack's, husband Zilver is sister to Trixie Lulamoon, who is married to Princess Luna. The other way is that he's also the brother to Halo, Twilight's husband. and Twilight's brother is married to Princess Cadence."

Twist scratched her head in confusion. "Sounds complicated."

"It is. But how she and her family got to there is complicated as well."

Tiara then went into detail about what happened after she and Twist moved away from Ponyville, about the humans arriving, the turning into human fiasco caused by Trixie, the Winter War, Discord's return, the giant dragon Oscurita, and everything else in-between.

"Wow." Twist exclaimed. "That's.... a bit much."

"Tell that to Applebloom. she was in the middle of it."

"True."

The two of them reached the upper echelon of Trottingham and passed though a large pair of iron gates. "Well, here's where we part ways." Twist said.

"well, you want to see Applebloom, right? Just come to her practice tomorrow. She'll have a terrible hangover but she'll be there. Her practice is across from the Theater."

Twist nodded. "I'll do just that. See you tomorrow, Tiara." She turned and left, heading for her home. Tiara nodded and did the same. Twist sure has changed a lot. She's no longer the shy lisping filly she remembers. She's now grown-up and beautiful. Funny how time can change you.

Eyes bloodshot and head rining, Applebloom's head rested on the counter in the lobby of her practice. Despite 12 cups of coffee and a very cold shower, Her head and stomach still hurt like they're going to burst.

"My poor little cranium." She groaned.

"Told you not to drink that much." Tiara said, reading a magazine on a chair. "But you went and did it anyway."

Applebloom groaned again, this time sounding like she agreed.

The door opened up and the bell rang. To her, it may as well be a large bell her head is inside of. "Please.... not so loud...."

The response was something she didn't expect. "Guess Tiara was right. you are hungover."

Applebloom snapped her eyes open. She knows that voice. It's not lisping, but she recognizes it. "Wait..." she lifted her head up and looked to the door. "Twist?"

Twist smiled with a smirk. "were you expecting someone else?"

Applebloom smiled wide. her hairs differnet and she lost her freckles but it's still Twist. "Twist!" she tried to bolt up but her head began to hurt horribly. "Oh! migraine. alcohol migraine!"

Twist winced in sympathy pains. She had those and they are not fun. "Long time no see, Applebloom."

It really is her. She never expected Twist to show up. "Twist!" She exclaimed with a big smile. "What are you doing here?"

"Well, i went to your house to meet you last night but i bumped into Tiara and she told me you were drunk off your plot and that i should wait for today."

"Good thinking..." Applebloom groaned, looking to Tiara with hungover eyes. She returned to Twist and smiled. "We have so much to catch up on!"

Twist chuckled. "That we do. But first... i have a business proposition." Both Tiara and Applebloom weren't expecting that. "How would you... like an endorsement?"

Both mares blinked. "Endorsement?" they both said.

Yep. Endorsement.

Now not only does her practice have the financial help of her Marefriends father, she now has a ringing endorsement from one of the richest Ponies on the planet. 'The Apple's Bloom Veterinary Practice. Now Fully Endorsed by the Twist and Shout Candy Company.'

Seeing that on the billboard out front made Green Star snarl like a demon. "Dammit, Dammit, Dammit!" He kicked a potted plant and sent it flying though a window.

Applebloom's face beamed when she saw the new sign. "OH, THIS IS JUST TOO GOOD!" She happily cheered, jumping up into the air.

"Figured you'd like that." Twist said with a smile.

Applebloom chuckled like a idiot. "Got my practice. It's fully endorsed. And i got a wonderful Marefriend! This has been the best week ever!"

"Marefriend?" Twist asked. "I never knew you were a Filly-Fooler."

"Neither did i. Yet, time with Tiara changed that."

"Tiara?"

"Yeah. We're Marefriends." Tiara chimed in. "But, un.... mind keeping this a secret, please? If my Dad found out, he might blow a gasket. He's not the biggest fan of Filly-Foolers and if he finds out his only daughter is one..."

"i get it, i get it." Twist looked at the two. They do seem happy together and they both mean it. "But... how are you two going out? I thought you hated each other."

Applebloom sputtered. "That was then, this is now. We were fillies. We hated a lot of things."

True 'dat. "Well, you two do seem like you're made for each other."

Applebloom and Tiara looked at each other with big smiles. "We know." they both said. Twist joined in on the smile as well.

"Oh, We have a lot of things to catch up on!" Applebloom exclaimed. "You up for some coffee?"

Twist nodded. "Sure. i'm open."

"Tiara?"

"I'm good, thanks. someone's gotta keep an eye on the place. Plus, Coffee makes Silver Crown all wired and moves around constantly."

"Okay. Be back soon." Applebloom and Twist walked off, both already chatting up a storm.

Tiara watched them leave and smiled. Time and Fate does have a way of bringing friends together again. It's good to let them do some catching up. And she doesn't have to worry about Twist trying to steal her girl; she's already married herself. Besides... this would give Tiara time enough to think.

Time to think... about what to do about Silver Crown.

Author's Note

guess the show that song drunk Applebloom sang and you get a cookie.

Giving Up!?!

Applebloom's reputation quickly grew. With Pepperment Twist, her old friend from their Ponyville days and now a big entrepreneur, giving a endorsement to her establishment, she is now one of the biggest Ponies in town, gaining as much money and fame.

At her friends requests, she let them add some new things to the business to attract more clients. If nobody had a sick or wounded animal, they can still come in to get some new clothes from Blade, or flying lessons from Cannon, or even some candy made from Twists's company. Her practice is basically a small mall.

The letters from her friends and family are also as cheerful as she is right now, all congratulating her on this. Applejack is particularly cheerful that her sister got this famous in Trottinham in that short a time.. Her old CMC friends asked how Twist was doing, and she replied in kind. and also what's happening with Tiara, minus the part about the two of them being an item.

This whole thing also ruined Green Star's reputation among the down-trotted of the city. He can't get rid of a simple little mare. and now that mare is city-wide famous and they now learned she's related to the Princess's. That made Green Star mad. he's going to do something stupid soon.

Applebloom... she has a loving girlfriend with a kid on the way, a booming business, great friends. This has been the best year of her life.

And all that happened in 4 months. Silver Crown is but a month away and Applebloom is feeling exstatic.

Tiara, however...

Depressed and defeated, Tiara laid on her bed back in her home. With Silver Crown getting closer and closer to being born, you should expect to feel vibrate. That's farther from the truth. She's actually scared stiff. Applebloom's been giving her all these stories about how her Aunt Twilight was able to raise Starlight as she herself was in this same situation.

But that's the thing. Tiara is not Twilight, and yet Applebloom is hoping she'll act like her.

Another wave of depression hit. "Applebloom is never going to forgive me for this..."

The door to Applebloom's practice jingled as a patron walked out on out with a ice cream cone.

"Thanks. come again!" Snowdrop called out. She had opened up a small ice-cream stand in Applebloom's practice; that attracted the kids in droves.

"Why didn't i think about this in the first place?" Applebloom said ecstatically. "Turn my practice in to a little mini-mall? Now anyone can come in for anything."

"And did you see your reputation?" Zim asked, placing a newspaper on her counter. "Because of that and countless other things, you are now famous in the town and the surrounding cities."

Applebloom whistled in amazment. "Wow. i just came to Trottingham to open up a Veterinary Practice. Who know i would end up like this?"

"Not us." All her friends replied. That made them all laugh.

Filthy sat in his study in his big mansion in the upscale part of the city, reading a newspaper.

"Huh... Applebloom's little practice now has a few small business' operating out of it. Good idea; make more money that way. Though with all those, it may as well be a Mini-Mall."

Hooffalls caught his ears, making them flick. He looked up from his paper and saw Tiara standing in the doorway. "Tiara?"

This is really hard for her to say, but she has to say it. "Dad... i... i thought about it and i reached my decision."

Knowing what she is talking about, he put the paper down and got up. "And you are sure about this?"

She feels horrible, but she knows this is right. "Y-yeah... i'm... i'm sure..." No, she wasn't. a few tears sneaked out and fell to the floor.

"Okay... i'll go get the papers." he walked off, leaving his emotional daughter behind. "BUt... try to change your mind about this. This won't only effect you, but your friends as well."

"I know. I know they'll hate me for this... Applebloom in particular."

That has him confused. "Why Applebloom?"

Tiara stifled a grunt. "Because i..."

With a skip in her step and a high heart, Applebloom hopped on home. She's so happy, some would say it's downright sickening. In fact, she feels like singing.

"♪Who

Knew

My life would turn out like this? Famous, Wealthy, and Full of Shine........?

A wonderful job,

A darling Marefriend,

This is the best time of my life.......

There is no way to make it all better

It's perfect as can be...

No one, not even Green Star, can make this feeling go away...

Ooh....

Diamond Tiara...

you make my life complete....♪"

That entire song and dance number got her home faster then expected. "That was quick." She expected the song to take a lot longer. She entered the house with a skip and started to her room when she saw Tiara sitting on the couch. "Hey there, T." She gave her a quick peck on the cheek. "Be right with ya. Gonna go get a drink."

Tiara shallowly gulped as she left. This is really going to hurt her. "A-Applebloom..."

"Don't worry. i'll get you a diet soda. i know caffeine will make Crown bounce around in there like there's no tomorrow."

Faust, this is going to destroy her. "A-Applebloom..."

"Hey, you want some Hay Fries? There's a bag in here and it's almost empty and i'm wond--"

"APPLEBLOOM!"

That caught Applebloom and made her stop what she was doing. She looked to the living room and headed out there. "are you okay, Tiara? you seem tense."

Tiara started having trouble breathing. "Applebloom... this is hard for me to say, but...." She stopped right there as she tried to find the courage to talk. Applebloom blinked her eyes in confusion. "I'm...." She shook her head and forced herself to say it.

"I'm giving Silver Crown up to adoption!"

That piece of news hit Applebloom like a bag of bricks. Her eyes lost the soul they had earlier. "y-you're what?"

"You heard me. I'm giving Silver Crown up."

Applebloom is finding this very hard to believe. Why... why would she give up right now, just a month till? "T-Tiara..."

"Go ahead and hate me! i know that's what you are going to do!"

Hate? that's the farthest thing from Applebloom's mind. a much more prevalent question took place. "W-Why... why would you do this?"

"Because i'm not brave! I'm just a cowardly mare who is too afraid! I'm not ready to be a mother, i'm not ready to be someone's Marefriend... Faust, i'm not ready for any of this!"

"T-Tiara..."

"I... i just can't... i'm reminded every day of who her horrid father is. Every time i'm going to see her face.... I'm gonna be reminded of that horrid Gryphon... and i just can't take it. I won't be able to survive knowing it. Even if you are her other mother, i'll still be reminded. She'll have something of Star's that'll remind me of him. I just can't deal with it! Dad told me to think about it when the pregnancy happened. When i met up with you, i thought i would be able to get though it! and with my friends, i was almost certain! But the thoughts still kept coming back. So... earlier today... i told Dad to send the adoption papers in."

Applebloom cannot believe this. She just can't. "You're really giving up?" Tiara sadly nodded while trying to fight back tears. "Tiara... you can get though this. Twilight was able to and--"

"I'm not Twilight!!" Tiara shouted. "She may have been able to look beyond her situation, but i'm not her! She's brave, i'm not!" Her legs quivered and gave out under her, causing her to fall. "I just can't.... i just can't...."

Applebloom didn't say a word. She just stood there, still unable to take this in.

Without a word, Applebloom left, closing the door behind her. Tiara's door to her heart closed and tears fell constantly. She looked up at where Applebloom was.

She lost the will to speak but was able to force some words out. "Applebloom...... I'm sorry......."

Tears fell down Applebloom's face as she walked to the city. Why did Tiara... what caused her to give up now? It makes no sense. She was so eager before. what happened? Maybe what she said was true and she's just not ready. She remembers Pinkie not being ready to be a mom when Cotton Candy was born.

But... Tiara also said that she'll always see Green Star when she sees Crown. How can she know if she never even seen Crown before she was born?

Applebloom shook her head, clearing the thoughts. She can't focus on that now. She has something important to take care of right now.

2 hours passed since Tiara told Applebloom what she's going to do and she hasn't left Applebloom's bed since. Snowdrop returned home and saw her like this. Tiara told her what had happened and told Snow to leave her alone. Snow did and told the others as they dropped by.

Tiara looked back on what she told her dad, and how 'well' he took it.

"Why Applebloom?"

Tiara stifled a grunt. "Because i... Because i love her."

Filthy almost went into shock. His own daughter, a Filly-Fooler? "You're joking, right?"

Tiara shook her head. "No... i'm not. I love her... and she loves me. She was so happy that she was going to be a mom, even if the kid isn't hers. When she finds out about this... that i'm gonna give Crown up to adoption... she's going to hate me..."

Filthy didn't say a word. He just stayed silent for a long while. "That's probably a good thing." Tiara knew that was coming. "You know how i feel about Filly-Foolers, Tiara. You know i find them to be abominations. But... knowing you are one... It's disconcerting."

"Sorry..." Tiara said with a course throat.

"You're making me look at you in a whole new light, Tiara. I don't know if i'll ever look at you the same again." He walked off, leaving his now emotionally wounded daughter behind.

"I'm.... sorry, Dad. but i love her... but she will hate me when i tell her i giving Crown up... I'm scared."

"This must've been torture to her..." Blade said in a depressed matter.

"I never knew Tiara was this fragile..." Twist commented, remembering all the times Tiara bullied everyone.

"Yeah... she looked like she was looking forward to it." Cannon said. "Who knew she was putting on a brave face?"

"I'm more worried about Applebloom." Zim said. "She never took this kind of information lightly and always did something stupid. I'm worried she may have gone and beat Green Star up."

"You really think she would do that?" Rise asked.

"Trust me. I saw her when Cousin Braeburn announced he was marrying a Buffalo Priestess. This is worse then it, but she still did something stupid."

"Not a fan of Buffalos, is she?"

"As far as Applebloom is concerned, no. But this is bigger then that. This is her own daughter. I know she's going to do something insane."

He's going to get his answer soon as Applebloom walked in.

Emotionally beaten for the day by her father and Marefriend, Tiara did nothing but look up at the ceiling. She felt Crown move and felt sorrow fill her. "I'm sorry, Crown... i just can't..." A knock came from the door. "Go away, Snow. i don't want to talk about it."

The door opened and a mare other then Snow walked in. "Do i look like Snowdrop?" Applebloom asked.

Tiara lightly chuckled. The chuckle quickly went away as a question was asked. "Why did you leave like that?"

"Sorry. I just... needed some time to think. What you said.... it really got me down. I mean, it's my daughter too! Don't i get a say in what we do with her?"

"I know that, but... but it's Green Star who's the dad, not you! I'm always going to see his face in her. He's still going to haunt me. I just can't dear with it, knowing he's the father."

Applebloom glanced away from her for a moment. "Well then, it's a good thing i went and did this." She pulled a folder out and opened it.

Tiara got curious and sat up. "What are those?"

Applebloom got a big grin on her face. "The Adoption Papers." she tossed the folder to Tiara. she caught it and looked it over. "I went to the agency and signed the papers. I am now Crown's legal mother."

Tiara couldn't believe this. "Applebloom... why? you know why i gave her up in the first place. So why are you--"

A sudden hug from Applebloom cut that off. "I know. and truth be told, i'm scared too. I'm scared that i'll see his face too. i'm scared that i won't be a good mother either. But i'm going to try my best. And you should too."

"Applebloom.... i'm not ready..."

"And neither am I. And i'm definitely certain that ZIm and Snowdrop aren't ready either. But they are going to try. And we should too."

"Applebloom..."

"I'm gonna stick by you though thick and thin, no matter what life throws at us. I'm going to stay with you though the bad times and the worst times. Tiara... what i'm asking is that...."

Applebloom broke the hug and got down on one hoof. Tiara gasped, thinking she knows what she's going to do. It made her blush wildly. "A-Applebloom..."

"Will you marry me?"

Tiara gasped again, holding her mouth with her hoof. This is really happening? But there's so much going on and it's just... it's not the right time. "Applebloom... i love you but... but i'm afraid i have to say no."

*Record Needle Scratch*

Not the answer Applebloom was hoping for. "Beg Pardon?"

"I'm sorry, Applebloom. there's just to much going on. Green Star, Silver Crown, My Dad..." OH, right... him. The Lesbian hater. "When these are all dealt with... then ask me again... but only after. I just can't have Wedding Jitters pile on everything else."

Applebloom felt her heart sink a bit, but at least Tiara is interested. "Okay... i'll wait."

"Thank you... and i am sorry."

"I know. There is too much going on. Maybe i choose the wrong moment. I mean, i was trying to cheer you up."

"And you succeeded. Just by being here for me. But for now... i don't need a wife... or a Marefriend. I need Applebloom. I need you."

Applebloom nodded again. "I know. And i will always be here. That's never going to change. and not just me, but everyone else. We're all here to help you, Tiara. And we'll stay by your side until the day we die, which hopefully won't be anytime soon."

"I know. Rise, Twist, Cannon, and the rest. I have all of them. And all of you... Glad you made me realize that. and i'm really glad you told me before i did something really stupid."

"Yeah..." Applebloom leaned in close. "i'm happy too..." the two of them kissed their most passionate kiss yet. All this drama, all these tears... it made them both realize how much love they had for each other. And Applebloom may have a point. If Twilight is able to get past her situation, she can too. She can try, at least. Now all that's left is her father... and Green Star, but she'll get to that later.

She's really lucky to have Applebloom in her life, and that she arrived when she did. One month sooner or later and none of this would've happened. Funny how Fate can work.

Author's Note

the best written: ...no. filler: yes.. but it's still something, right? showed Tiara's complete and utter lack of faith in herself and that she's not always strong.

Green Star Strikes

Diamond Tiara is so lucky.

She has the best friends in the world, as well as the best Marefriend in the world.

When we last saw her, Tiara had hit rock bottom and had decided to give Silver Crown up for adoption, knowing full well that Applebloom would hate her. She also told her father, who hates Filly-Foolers, that she's in love with Applebloom. as a result, he hasn't spoken to her for a month.

Anyways, she told Applebloom what she's going to do and A.B. didn't say a word. She just left in a huff. When she came back in a few hours, she revealed that she herself had adopted Silver Crown. She promised that she won't leave Tiara ever, no matter what happens, and would support her every step of the way, even going as far to ask Tiara to marry her.

Tiara said no, mostly due to all that's been going on with Green Star and now her father, but she appreciated the gesture and is very happy knowing Applebloom will be staying with her. Maybe being a mom won't be so hard.

she's about to find out soon enough. A month passed since then and Silver Crown is at full term. Tiara can give birth any day now, but apparently Crown doesn't want to come out. Now everyone is trying to think of ways to induce labor.

A task that is easier said then done.

Applebloom groaned in defeat as she laid her head on the back of the easy chair in Zim's living room. "That Baby is starting to get on my nerves."

"You think you're having trouble?" Tiara asked, laying on the couch, rubbing her 11 month belly. "You don't have a full foal scratching up your insides."

"Unless we decide to have another baby and I'M the mother."

Tiara snorted. "And that won't happen for a long while. i'm still scared i'm going to mess up with Crown."

Applebloom heard her worried speech a thousand times over, she's got it memorized by heart. "Right right. so... got any ideas on how to get the ball rolling?" Was that a joke about her stomach? Tiara felt like it was and gave her a foul look. "Un... so to speak." She sat up and grabbed a list she had made up before when Applejack was pregnant with Peppy. It surprisingly came in handy. "Ok.... We tried jogging."

"Check."

"We tried Sex."

"Check times 10." Tiara finished with a smile.

"So next..... Spicy Food."

Tiara stuck her tongue out in disgust. "I hate spicy food."

"Well, unless you want Crown to keep playing with your bladder, eat the hot stuff."

Tiara groaned. She hates spicy food. It's her least favorite dish; not to mention that most of the spicy foods are all meat based.There's barely any for vegetarians like Ponies or Changelings. "Ugh...... bring me salad; i'll drown it in hot sauce or overdose with pepper or something."

"You're getting Jalapenos," Applebloom called as she walked into the kitchen. "a ton of them!"

Greaaaat. Jalapenos. "You're evil, Applebloom!" Applebloom mocked her as she went into the kitchen. Tiara chuckled as she went in. gotta love her. Tiara got comfy and grabbed a magazine.

The door opened and Snow walked in with the mail. "Mail Call." the 7 month pregnant mare announced.

"Anything for me?!" Applebloom called from the kitchen.

"No. Sorry." a cry of anguish followed from Applebloom. Her playing made Tiara giggle. "I can see your feeling better."

"Yeah. Applebloom is true to her word; she never abandoned me. I'm so lucky to have a mare like her."

Snowdrop nodded in agreement. "Yeah. and i'm lucky to have a stallion like Zim. Say what you will about their personalities; the Apple Family will stick with you though thick and thin." That's something Tiara can agree to though experiance. "OH. i forgot. there's something for you in the mail."

"For me?" That's new. she never got mail at Zim's place before. "You sure it's for me?"

"Positive. your name is on the front." Snow pulled out a large vanilla envelope.

Applebloom came out, carrying a tray of jalapenos on her back. "What's that?" She asked, noticing the envelope.

Tiara grabbed it and looked at it. "I don't know. It's from the city officials so it must be important."

Applebloom pondered what it could be as she put the tray down. "Well... it could be the cancellation of the adoption papers."

"We got that last week." Tiara flipped it over and started to open it.

She guessed again. "Hmm............ maybe.... it's a Will?"

Tiara scoffed. "No. all my relatives are healthy. And other then my grandma 2 years ago, nobody's died in my family. well, yet. Besides, nobody except me and my Dad live in Trottingham." Tiara turned it on it's side and the contents slipped out.

This is starting to get annoying. "Then... what could it..."

What Tiara read made her gasp like she lost her best friend. she looked at the papers in shock and kept looking after they fell out of her hooves. "That....... that....."

Curious, Applebloom picked up the papers and looked at them. what she saw made her so angry, she tore up the papers. "What? what were they?" A worried Snow asked.

"That bastard!" Applebloom yelled. "I can't believe he's doing this!"

"Who's doing what?!" Zim asked as he came in.

"That bastard Green Star." Applebloom kicked the paper shards. "He's suing Tiara for custody of Crown!"

Snow gasped, holding her hooves over her mouth, and Zim growled. "That bastard!"

Snow lowered her hooves. "What now?"

"We get a lawyer!" Applebloom roughly said. "Maybe Tiara's dad has one that can-- Oh, right. he's not exactly happy with the two of us since SOMEONE..." She gave Tiara a look. "Had to tell her father." Tiara looked away from her for a moment. "*sigh* I'll go to Twist tomorrow; see if she has one we can borrow."

Zim still can't believe this. "Why would that griffon do this?"

"He's Evil. what else could it be?" Tiara asked. that filled her with worry. "Hope Crown doesn't turn out the same way."

"She won't." Snow said comfortingly. "Not with all of us raising her. At worse, she may pick up a bad habit like un... binge eating."

Applebloom and Zim both face-hooved as Tiara gave Snow a odd look. "Binge Eating? really?"

"Well, it's the best i could come up with on short notice."

Applebloom rolled her eyes. "Oy, vey."

The court date is set for a week from the day before, not giving Applebloom a lot of time to go and ask Twist for help.

Twist gasped in shock. "He's doing what?!"

"He's suing Tiara for custody of the baby; that baby that's not born yet." Applebloom fell onto Twists couch and ran her hooves over her eyes. "i swear, that Gryphon is pure evil."

"No kidding." That told Twist what Applebloom is likely here to do. "And i take it your here to borrow one of my lawyers for this case?"

"Wow, right to the point. um... yeah. I figured you must have one to spare since you're a big tycoon and all. I really don't want to pay for one of those heartless peons; they'll suck you dry."

"No argument." Twist thought about it for a moment. "Very well then. I'll loan you one of my lawyers for the trial. He's not my best but he's more then enough to handle a simple custody battle."

Applebloom hugged Twist as tight as Pinkie. "OH, thank you Twist! Thank you, thank you, thank you!"

"It's no problem. what are friends for? Besides, i want that stupid Green Day put away. That guy sent me a threat letter, saying that if i continue to associate with you, he'll do bad things to me."

"Really? Geez. say what you will about him; he's not afraid to do things."

"No he's not."

"Tiara... this trial is centered around you and Crown. don't you think you should be there?" Cannon asked. He, Tiara, and the others are at Applebloom's practice, talking about this insane trial.

The week quickly passed and the day of the trial quickly came. What's surprising is that Tiara didn't want to go. The trial is all about her and Crown and she didn't go. Mostly because she's scared to see Green Star again and is worried that he's going to do something to her, even in front of all those people. And if he wins, she needs time to get out of town and flee the country to somewhere like the Gryphon Kingdom.

"I'm certain, Cannon." She tensely said. "I just can't look at Green Star again. if i do... all these horrible feelings will come flooding back and then.... then i won't know what to do."

"If your certain, T." Rise said.

Blade exhaled as she sat back in her chair. "You think Applebloom will win?"

"Of course she will." Snow said. "She's got Twist's lawyer with her and i never heard of her losing a case. Well, not a big one. Although i must admit, i was surprised when i found out who it was."

"Me too."

Breeze yawned loudly. "I'm hungry." Tiara suddenly said.

"Same here." Breeze added. "I'm gonna go out and get something from McMarenalds. anybody want something?" "Oh!" Rise raised her hoof. "can you get me a double decker with 3 layers of cheese and... ah, forget it. i'll come along. you'll probably mess it up." She got up and walked out the door. Though he knows he won't mess it up, Cannon came along as well to make sure Rise didn't do something stupid. Breeze waited until he was out before heading out himself, leaving Blade and Snow with Tiara.

"But you have to be scared, right?" Blade asked "This is your daughter we're talking about. If Green Star wins, he'll have complete custody of her."

"I know. But i'm confident that Applebloom and Twist can do this." Tiara suddenly winced in pain.

"You okay?" Snow asked.

"Yeah..." She groaned. "Just indigestion. it's been going on since i had those jalapenos yesterday. But the cramps have been getting closer together. It's odd." Closer together? Cramps? Uh-oh. Tiara again winced in pain, this time holding her stomach. That was more painful then the last one.

Blade recognized the signs from health class in school. "Tiara... i think you're in labor." that made Snow gasp happily.

"What?" Tiara asked.

"Tiara. the Baby is coming. Crown is coming right now."

Tiara went into a slight shock as realization hit her. She's becoming a mom. "Oh boy. oh boy. oh boy."

"Just breath. breath. remember Lamaze." Blade breathed in then out in a steady, gentle pattern. Tiara copied her but it didn't help when another contraction hit. "Oh boy." Blade raised her wings and opened the door. "Snow, get Tiara to the hospital. I'm gonna go get Applebloom."

"Okay." Blade flew out and headed to the courthouse. Snow helped Tiara out and hailed a cab. "You're gonna be okay, Tiara."

"I know i will be. I've been though worse then this." Tiara said with a eye closed, remembering when the Humans first arrived and the battle they had with monsters attacking the town.

Meanwhile...

"You could've told me you were one of Twists' lawyers, Zim."

Zim, dressed in a zoot suit, sat beside Applebloom in the courthouse, waiting for the judge. "You didn't ask. and weren't you curious as to how i was able to afford such a exquisite place?"

He had a point there. She didn't really ask what he did, so that was all her fault. She sighed as she rested her head on her hoof. She's just scared, worried about what will happen. If she loses, that bastard Green Star gets Crown. She can flee to the Gryphon Kingdom with Tiara and Crown if they lose, right?

Speaking of the bastard, Green Star sat behind the desk opposite of theirs, smiling like the bastard idiot he is. He looks so smug and so proud of himself, it makes Applebloom sick. He also had a lawyer, who apparently knows not what Star did or his personality. For all she knows, Star probably lied to him.

Twist walked into the packed courtroom and sat in the pew right behind Applebloom and Zim. "How are things?"

"We're just waiting for the judge and for the trial to begin." Applebloom replied.

Twist sighed. "Why isn't Tiara here? This is about her and her kid."

Applebloom looked around and made sure nobody was around to here it. She gestured both Zim and Twist to lean in close so she can whisper. "If Star wins, Tiara isn't going to give Crown up to him. She wants to stay behind and make sure that she has ample time to run to the Gryphon Kingdom."

"Well, that's a stupid plan." Twist whispered.

"I agree, but i also agree with her and i don't want Crown in that Gryphon's claws."

This thought finally entered Zim's mind. "Why not ask the Princess' for help? You're royalty now, right? That has to mean something here."

"I tried. I got a reply from Aunt Tia. she's too busy on her own problems- Luna and Cadence included."

"So it's just us?"

"I'm afraid so."

Applebloom turned to sit down in defeat when she noticed someone familiar in the pews; Tiara's father Filthy Rich. Now what is he doing here? she thought he disowned Tiara.

"All rise!" The Dragon pailiff announced. The entire courtroom did just that. "The Honorable Sunset Shimmer proceeding."

The Judge for the trial, Sunset Shimmer, walked into the room and up onto the podium. (Remember, my stories take place in a universe where Season 3 and beyond, like Equestria Girls, don't happen.)

"Please be seated." She announced. The court followed that and sat back down. "Okay... Trial number 225-B, Green Star vs Diamond Tiara. This is a custody battle for the right to one Silver Crown?"

"Yes ma'am." Applebloom said.

"And who are you?"

"Um... my name's Applebloom, ma'am. I'm Diamond Tiara's marefirend. She can't be here because she's sick. Think she caught the flu or something."

Filthy figured that was a lie. Tiara is always good at ducking out of things. She must be planning on running if that Gryphon fella wins. If it does come to that, he won't blame her.

"Very well then. Now, let us here from the Accuser first. Mr. Green Star?"

Green Star's lawyer got up and walked to the podium. "Mrs. Shimmer, my client Green Star has been wrongly accused by Ms. Diamond Tiara and Applebloom at being a demon. He is, in fact, a nice Gryphon who is looking to be the best father he can be. Diamond Tiara and Applebloom are being the real monsters here and letting them raise a new-born foal to hate and subjugate is not a good idea."

Applebloom looked in disgust. He's been lied to; no doubt about it. She looked to Green Star and saw him grinning. "Now, if you mind, i would like to call Green Star to the stand."

Sunset allowed it and Green Star came up to it. "Now... Mr. Green Star. would you consider yourself a good honest Gryphon?"

"Yes."

"Then explain to us the events of that night in question. That night that brought about this trial."

"Well... My and Diamond tiara were up on Mt. Maremore, looking at the stars. Tiara had too much to drink and wanted me then and there. i refused but she insisted. In the end, she threw herself on me, despite my protests. And a week after, she found out she was carrying our child and refused to let me be a part; even refusing to let me help. Tell me, would you let someone like that to be a good mother, much less a good role model?"

that made the crowd and the jury murmur. Filthy, Twist, Zim, and Applebloom felt their stomachs twist in anger. How evil is this guy?

"Everything Green Star said is a lie." Applebloom said as she took the stand.

"Everything Star has told all of you is a big lie meant to make him look like a saint when he's anything but. He threatened Tiara's life if i didn't leave Trottingham. He threatened to burn down my vet practice. He even threatened Twist by threatening her life. He's done nothing but cause stress for both Tiara and Crown ever since that night. Trust me; Green Star will do anything to get his way, even something like this."

That also made the crowd murmur. Both have convincing arguments; who's telling the truth and who's lying?

This is clearly a courtroom full of idiots if they didn't hear about what Star did these past 11 months.

They didn't give Zim a chance to make his case; the judge already sent the jury away to make their verdict. While everyone waits, the judge sent them out for a recess.

"We're gonna lose. i just know it." Zim said.

Star chuckled as he walked up to them. "No hard feelings, right Applebloom? i'm just doing what's right."

Applebloom growled. She couldn't hold in her anger anymore. She pinned Star on the wall and squeezed down on his neck. "Listen here, you sadistic bastard! This is all your fault! You are the one who made Tiara pregnant; you are the one who's suing her for custody; you are the one who's making all these threats. you're just doing this so you can just feel good about your fucking ego!"

Green Star smugly chuckled. "My my, Applebloom. this isn't looking good for your case. You are looking like a bad role model yourself."

Applebloom growled in anger. She punched him right in the cheek, sending him to the ground. "Listen you, you little bastard! even if you win, you'll never get Crown! that i promise!"

"Ms. Applebloom!" Sunset exclaimed, having just seen what had transpired following the punch. "Are you threatening Mr. Green Star's life?"

"Uh-oh." Twist muttered.

Applebloom stuttered. "But-but he was..."

"I saw enough to know that you would not be a good parental figure, Ms. Applebloom." Sunset said. "Even though the Jury has yet to come to a verdict. i saw enough to decide that Gr--"

"Applebloom! there you are!"

Blade flew towards her and stopped to catch her breath. "Blade? what are you doing here?"

"It's Tiara. she's gone into labor. Snow's taking her to the hospital right now."

"She's going into labor?!?" Applebloom got up and quickly ran out, completely forgetting about the trial.

"Wait. Applebloom." Zim ran after her, hoping to cut her off.

The child's being born right now, in the middle of her own trial. And he knows that the judge was going to rule in his favor by the sounds of it. "May as well go and grab the bastard child now." he muttered under his breath.

Out of the corner, Filthy heard everything that happened. He disappeared when he heard Tiara had gone into labor.

Author's Note

Sorry that this is rushed. I'm busy over here and i just... well, it's advancing the story; be thankful for that.

Silver Crown

The day had finally come, the day Tiara dreaded for both the pain and the mental implications of it's father.

Silver Crown is ready to be born.

And on a crummy day, too. Right now, her other mother Applebloom was battling Green Star in court for her possession. Green Star doesn't care about Crown one way or the other; he just wants Tiara to suffer.

Speaking of Tiara suffering...

Diamond Tiara yelled as another contraction hit her. “OH, FAUST, THIS ONE WAS MORE PAINFUL THEN THE LAST!!!” once it passed, she panted with a whimper.

Applebloom nuzzled her marefriend sympathetically, wishing to do anything to help her.

As soon as the contractions began coming, Snowdrop took Diamond Tiara to the hospital. When they arrived, Tiara was in a lot of pain and was immediately taken to the delivery room. Her contractions were abnormally strong and she's already 10 centimeters. And there's a bit of a problem. She had been pushing for 2 hours but the foal wasn’t moving a inch.

That is never good.

Another contraction hit, causing her to cry in pain. “I’m sorry you have to do this by yourself, Tiara.” a sympathetic Applebloom said.

The contraction passed, allowing her to catch her breath. “it’s… not your fault. It’s that damn Green Star and his libido who’s to blame.” another contraction hit, thankfully not as painful as the others before.

"Yeah... ........ anyways... i may have bucked up."

"Huh?"

Applebloom sighed. "During the trial... i may have hit Green Star."

That actually dulled the pain for a moment, giving Tiara a moment to smile in glee. "You hit him?"

"Yeah... in the hallway during a recess. He egged me on and i just clocked him one. The judge unfortunately saw and... she may rule in his favor."

Tiara gasped in a mixture of fear and pain as another contraction hit. "Ow ow ow ow ow ow...." the contraction passed and she panted. "You sure?"

Applebloom's mind went back to the events of the trial.

{Star chuckled as he walked up to them. "No hard feelings, right Applebloom? i'm just doing what's right."

Green Star smugly chuckled. "My my, Applebloom. this isn't looking good for your case. You are looking like a bad role model yourself."

Applebloom growled in anger. She punched him right in the cheek, sending him to the ground. "Listen you, you little bastard! even if you win, you'll never get Crown! that i promise!"

"Ms. Applebloom!" Sunset exclaimed, having just seen what had transpired following the punch. "Are you threatening Mr. Green Star's life?"

"Uh-oh." Twist muttered.

Applebloom stuttered. "But-but he was..."

"I saw enough to know that you would not be a good parental figure, Ms. Applebloom."}

A.B. groaned in worry. "Pretty sure..." Tiara groaned in agony and fell her head back. "But but but i know you. You'll want to flee to the Gryphon Kingdom if it rules in his favor, right?"

"How did you know?"

"It's the only good option open. And i think it's a good idea too. And i know the person in charge; she's friends with Aunt Dash. If she heard what happened with us, she may lend a hand."

Tiara whimpered as another contraction hit. Man, these are very close together. "I hope so. If i survive this..."

15 minutes later...

Applebloom paced back and forth outside the entryway to the emergency room. The baby was in distress and Tiara had to have a C-Section. That made Applebloom nervous; very nervous. She remembers how Dash had to have a C-Section when she was giving birth to Soarin' Cloud. It almost killed her.

All the rest of her's and Tiara's friends are there with her. Zim got up and patted her on the back. "She'll be fine, cous. You'll see."

“I sure hope so.” she said with a whimper. "I don't want her to die..." She stopped pacing and pulled out a box from her coat. Within it was a diamond ring. “I sure hope so…”

The door to their area burst open and wouldn’t you know, the bastard himself stormed in. Zim ran out to get the guards, sensing a confrontation brewing. “Where is that bitch!?” Green Star yelled. Applebloom put the box away and got in his path. “get out of my way, bitch!”

“No!” a stern Applebloom said.

“No!?” he snarled. “Nobody says no to me!”

“Well, I just did. So, Ha Ha.”

The mare is really starting to get on his nerves. “Listen, you bitch! Either you move aside or else I’m going to break your bones 5 ways to Sunday!”

Applebloom have had enough of this dumb birds ramblings. “Listen, you dumb Gryphon, you lost your chance to be with Tiara and Silver Crown when you beat her AND sued her. And you also lost it when I came to Trottingham. So shut up and deal with it!”

Green Star’s anger was reaching a boiling point. “You dumb mare! You think you can tell me what to do!?” he kicked Applebloom right into a potted plant. the ring box was tossed out of Applebloom's coat and skidded to a halt near the doors. “YOU NEVER TELL ME WHAT TO DO! I‘ll do whatever I want to that bitch whether you like it or not!!!”

“Shut up!” a voice called out. Both the Gryphon and the Mare looked to see, much to Applebloom’s surprise, Tiara’s father walk in with a couple of cops and Zim. “you gave you the authority to hurt my daughter and to try and take her foal?”

“I can do whatever I want, you dumb bastard.”

Filthy Rich chuckled. “you really shouldn’t have said that.” he pointed to the Gryphon. The cops used magic to wrap magic whips around his wings and legs. “I have a lot of connections high up..." He glanced over to Applebloom, referencing her connections to the princess' now. "and I can make sure you’re put away for a long time!”

“You wouldn’t dare!” The Gryphon snarled.

“Try me.” he nodded to the cops, who nodded back. They slapped a muzzle on him and took the abusive Gryphon away. He then turned his attention to Applebloom, who got up off the ground thanks to Zim.

“so you’re Applebloom- the mare who’s courting my daughter?”

Oh... that's right. he's not a Filly-Fooler fan. “un, yes sir.” Applebloom said, not wanting to get in trouble with him.

“you know I don’t like Filly-Foolers.”

Applebloom gulped. “n-no sir.”

“I find them to be abominations of nature; freaks, even.”

Applebloom gulped again. “I-I know, sir.” Her knees started to shake in fear of what he's going to say.

“but…" But? she wasn't expecting a but. "my daughter seems to love you and you were willing to stand up to her demons. And I admire that.”

Is he saying what she thinks he's saying? “so… what are you saying?”

Rich picked up the box and opened it up, looking at the ring. “I’m saying that, while I’m not the biggest fans of Filly-Foolers, I won’t deny my daughter her happiness." He walked over and handed it to her. "You have my blessing.”

Applebloom took a moment to process that, then happily gasped. “Oh, thank you!” she suddenly hugged him, much to his chagrin.

“but I’m not a hugging kind of pony.”

Applebloom almost imminently let go. “Sorry, Sir.”

"HAha! I can already hear the wedding bells!" Rise exclaimed, hovering off the ground.

"Can i be your best mare?!" Both Snowdrop and Blade begged.

Applebloom started to feel a bit overwhelmed. "Whoa whoa. guys. calm down. she said no to me before. No telling what she'll say now. Besides, even though Green Star is in jail, his lawyer could twist his words when he meets with the judge."

"Not True." Sunset walked in, surprising Applebloom.

"What are you doing here?" Applebloom asked.

"Well, you ran out of the courthouse so suddenly, you didn't wait to hear the verdict."

Applebloom's knees shook again, this time out of fear that she'll lose Crown. She's heard of cases when the father or mother in jail wins and gets custody. They never turn out good. "I... lost... didn't i?"

Sunset stayed quiet for a moment. That made Applebloom more nervous. "Actually... you won."

Applebloom wasn't expecting that answer. "I won?"

"Yes. You showed that you are willing to do whatever it takes to protect Crown, even if she's not your daughter. I admire that."

"But, what about Green Star?"

"I had a bad feeling about him from the start. And what i heard just a few moments ago confirmed it."

"So what will you do to him?" Cannon asked.

"Send him to a mental institute where he can hopefully get some help for that anger. I'll send him to Baltimare; their's are the best psychologists. hopefully, in time, he'll become nice."

"I'm just glad he's gone." Applebloom commented. "He tortured me and Tiara long enough. I'm glad he's leaving town." Everyone agreed with that. The guy was a menace.

"Ms. Applebloom?"

The nurse called out for Applebloom and got everyone's attention. "The C-Section went fine. Tiara and Crown are okay." Applebloom breathed the biggest sigh of relief in her life. That is unbelievably good news. "You wish to see them?"

She's unsure. Doesn't Rich want to see his new granddaughter? ... He can wait. that was made apparently as he gestured her to go first.

Applebloom knocked and entered Tiara’s room. Inside, Tiara, now with a C-section scar running down her stomach, was holding her new daughter with a smile. She looked like Tiara, except with brown fur. And by the looks of it, that's Green Stars only contribution to her. She had no gryphon wings, no lion tail, no beak, no nothing. She's just a ordinary Unicorn. Even her brown fur isn't Green Star's shade. It was more like Derpy's cousin-in-law... Time Turner, she thinks he's called.

“Hey.” Applebloom softly said.

“Hey.” Tiara replied in the same fashion. Applebloom walked over and looked at Tiara’s new kid. She had her mothers mane. Tiara noticed a drop of blood fall from Bloom’s head. “what happened?”

“Huh?” Bloom reached up and wiped her forehead to see she was bleeding. “oh. I had a bad fall. it’s nothing big.”

“if you say so.” Tiara returned her attention to her new Silver Crown and smiled. “isn’t she precious?”

“yeah. Really cute.” The apple mare cocked her head to the side. “you know, I expected there to be some Gryphon attributes in her, like a beak or something.”

“me too. But… maybe it’s for the best that she doesn’t know about Green Star.”

“I agree.” Applebloom reached back and pulled out the box. “Um… Tiara… there’s something I want to ask you and… I hope you say yes.” Ask her? She already has a kid; Bloom better not be asking for another.

It wasn't that. Bloom got down on one knee and opened the box to reveal the ring. “Will you marry me, Diamond Tiara?”

The new mother gasped. First a child, now a bride? All the matters she said why they couldn't get married in the first place must've been resolved. No more Green Star. No Father hating her. It must all be good.

That in mind, she didn’t have to think. “Yes. Yes, of course I’ll marry you.”

Applebloom happily smiled and kissed Tiara on the lips. It started out as the worst day in their lives, now it's their best. Faust, this is going to be one heck of a story to tell Crown in the future.

Speaking of which, Bloom feels bad that she didn't have anything genetically to contribute to Crown. Heck, she doesn't even have a present for her. All she had with her was the bow wrapepd around her neck.

.... the bow...

Applebloom looked down at it and smiled. She wore that thing all her life. "Well... best keep the tradition alive..."

That soft whisper reached Tiara's ears. "What tradition?"

Bloom reached back and started unwrapping her bow. "Well, in the family, it's a tradition to pass down our possessions to who we think is right for it. Applejack got her stetson from our dad and Bic Mac got that yoke from Uncle Blue Berry in Manehatten."

"And the bow?"

"I got it from my mom... the day before she and dad died..."

"Oh..."

Applebloom finished unwrapping and looked at the ribbon. "This is the only thing i have to remember her by. I was barely older then crown when she died. I can't remember her face or her voice... But... i don't need that now."

"Why?"

Bloom smiled before going and wrapping the bow gently around Crown's neck. "Cause i'm a mom myself now. Besides, i saw enough family photos to know what she looks like now. And thanks to Celestia, i can hear her voice whenever i want. Recordings." She finished wrapping the bow around her new daughter and smiled. Tiara is unsure. It's a bit too big. Applebloom noticed it too. "She'll grow into it."

The door to the room was gently knocked before Snow poked her head in. "can we come in?" She whispered.

"Yeah... come on in."

Their friends slowly entered and headed for them. The girls all went 'awe' as soon as they saw Crown. "She's so cute..." Blade whined, wishing she had one.

Snow smiled and rested her head on Zim's shoulder. "And we're gonna have one in a few months ourselves." She said with a smile.

"Wow, she looks just like you Tiara." Breeze said. "You can hardly see Green Star's traits in her."

"I think that's a good thing." Rich said. Tiara looked up at her father and smiled. "You did good, Tiara. You did good."

"I know..."

All of them didn't notice it until Cannon pointed it out. "Hey, isn't that Applebloom's bow wrapped around her?"

Applebloom smiled. "I don't need it anymore. i outgrew it. Besides. it looks better on her."

The new foal stirred and whined. "Oh. i think she's about to open her eyes." Blade said.

The baby stirred with a whimper. She opened her eyes and saw all these people she never saw before looking at her. "Wow... She has your eyes, Applebloom."

Bloom certainly wasn't expecting that. She expected it to be Tiara's Cornflower Blue or Green Stars emerald eyes. Nobody was expecting it to be brilliant gamboge.

Applebloom couldn't help but smile. She's going to try and be the best mother she can for her. She has a good role model to go off of with Applejack. "Can i hold her?" She softly asked. Tiara nodded and passed Crown to her. Bloom gently grabbed her and looked into her eyes.

"Hey there, Crown. I may not be your real parent, but i am going to try the best i can to be a good mother. You know why? Because you are worth it. So very, very worth it." Crown's response to that was her trying to grab her other mother's hair. "Hey hey hey." Applebloom gently pushed her hoof away. "Rule one, you don't pull someone's hair. It hurts."

Tiara gave her a stern look. "Really? I can think of one other thing that hurts a WHOLE lot worse then pulling on someones hair." That made everyone, even her father, chuckle. Even Crown had her first laugh at that odd noise her mom made.

Wedding

It is never easy planning a wedding. Princess Cadence can attest to that.

Both Applebloom and Diamond Tiara knew that this was going to be a emotional roller coaster ride when Bloom proposed to her. And it's not like they've never been to weddings before. They know what has to go in to it; they have to hire a caterer, hire a photographer, make sure everyone's seated well at the reception, hire a D.J....

it's no wonder brides to be go insane every time they get married.

There's at least one thing they agreed on; who's going to be the bride and who's going to be the groom. Tiara, since she went though all so much, is going up there with the white dress and a veil. She deserves it with everything she went though with Green Star and Silver Crown.

Speaking of them, Green Star was sent to a psychiatric ward up in Baltimare in order for him to get help. His bunk mate, a mare named Screw Ball, has wrote to them both about his progress and introduced herself. Apparently, she's been there since she was born, thanks to her mother being sent there while preggers and now she's there until the docs are 100% certain she's not crazy. Tiara and Bloom didn't really care about Screw but it's nice to hear that Star is getting help for his anger. Silver Crown should meet her father at least once and going to a psych hospital will do that.

Speaking of Crown, she's growing up a normal, ordinary, healthy Unicorn foal. She has some spurts of magic but that happens, according to Applebloom and all the baby sitting she did for Pound and Pumpkin. Other then that, she's a ordinary 3-month old Unicorn foal. No tendency's towards anger or any Gryphon attributes like claws or a lion tale.

While we're talking about babies, Snowdrop and Zim had there's, a colt they named Ice Flower.

Now if Tiara and Applebloom can keep their cool until the wedding, everything will be fine.

.......

Yeah, that's not going to happen.

"What?!?!?!" Applebloom exclaimed, having gotten the bill for all of the food that will be at the reception. "2,000 Bits! For a simple wedding dinner!?"

Tiara took the bill and looked at it. What she read made her face melt and her tiara fall. "That is pricey!"

2,000 bits is enough to buy a small city. "This is insane!"

"Well, you did tell the caterer that you are nobility." Snowdrop said, nursing Flower. "I suspect he jacked up the price."

"But 2,000 bits!" Applebloom continued exclaiming. "Even the Princess' would agree this is Highway Robbery-no, not a Highway Robbery, a bank heist!"

Zim walked in from the kitchen, carrying a tray with a tea kettle and cups on his back. "Is it too late to change caterers?"

"Deathly." Tiara said. "The wedding's in less then a week. It's far too late to change now." The familiar sounds of a crying filly reached her ears. "And speaking of changing." Tiara got up and headed upstairs. "Be right back."

Applebloom stopped her freak out and watched Tiara walk up with a smile. "She seems to be doing well with the mom business." Zim commented.

Applebloom warmly chuckled. "Yeah. She's really gotten into it."

"I thought she was going to be freaking out or crying." Zim said while pouring a cup.

"Me too." Applebloom laid down on the couch and sputtered, feeling downbeat from all this planning. "I expected her to be crying or bawling 'i give up'. Yet, not once did i hear it. Not even little sniffles from the bathroom."

"Well, that's good."

And Applebloom wasn't lying. Tiara was getting into this mother business. She sat in a rocker chair, humming while she fed Crown with a bottle. After several minutes of sucking, Crown stopped eating, yawned, then fell asleep. Tiara smiled and sang a lullaby to her.

"♪hmm.... hm-hm-hmmmm-hm.... hush now, quiet now, sleep now baby mine. time has come to go to dream land...hmm... hm-hm-hmmmm-hm...♪"

Tiara kissed crown on the forehead as she kept on rocking. This isn't turning out to be so bad after all. Although Crown does leave some very smelly and unnatural 'gifts'. Thank goodness Applebloom spent all that time babysitting foals like her niece Peppy.

Tiara wanted to have a outdoor wedding, and a outdoor wedding they are having. There's no spots in Trottingham itself to have it, so they had to leave the city to a nearby forest. With this, they have enough room for all their friends and family. the reception was to take place in a nearby clearing.

This specific spot was chosen because of it's gorgeous view of a lake. It's said that if someone get's married here, they stay together forever. And if they time it, they can get hitched when the sunset hits the lake. That'll make it even more romantic.

Now if only the two of them can survive the trials of wedding plans.

"What? What do you mean you're out of azaleas!?" Tiara exclaimed to the florist. He had arrived with the flowers ordered for the wedding. Tiara ordered azaleas and ended up with lilacs.

"Un, Sorry ma'am, but all of the azaleas were taken to another wedding 3 days ago and we never came around to refilling our stock." a stallion said with a clear John Ratzenberger accent. "And we're out of roses and tulips too. Only flowers we have left are lilacs. If you want, i can put in a order and get them to you in... 3 to 4 weeks."

Tiara can't believe this. It's like she's the victim of a horrible prank. "I need them in 3 to 4 days! Don't you understand, i'm--" She was interrupted when she saw that the ice sculpture of a swan was melting, being in the direct light of the summer sun. "No no no no no!" She ran past the florist and to the ice guys. "What are you two doing!? This thing is melting!"

The two pegasi looked at the sculpture and saw that it was, in fact, melting. "Well, how do you like that." the Gryphon said like a complete and utter idiot. Tiara's mouth hung open at their complete stupidity.

This is turning into a nightmare.

Nearby, fast asleep in her stroller, Crown slept the day away. Tiara brought her out here because she didn't want to be far away from her in case Crown needed her. Applebloom couldn't look after her because she was in Manehatten, which is just a 2 hour train ride away, inviting Silver Spoon and Babs Seed.

Crown slept soundly, not hearing the hooffalls that came to her. "Such a strong willed girl." A stallion Unicorn as black as night with a red cape and a dark curved horn approached and looked at her with green eyes with red iris' and purple fire coming out of the sides approached her. "A complete opposite of her father. If i already didn't have someone else in mind, you could've been my scion."

He leaned in and whispered to her. "No matter, my grandniece. Soon, your cousin Starlight and i... we shall change everything. and you and all your other siblings will have a part to play." He kissed her on the forehead. Where he kissed her, a mark appeared that quickly went away.

Tiara left the wedding to those idiots, needing a much needed break. "Man... i cannot work with those dunderheads. They got everything completely wrong. Ugh, why isn't Applebloom here to help me with this?"

She walked to the other side of a tree to get Crown, only to duck back behind it when she saw the dark unicorn. He was walking away, like he wasn't near the stroller. Curious about him, Tiara followed.

The dark unicorn walked out of the trees and into a small clearing. Using his magic,he turned his cape into wings. Tiara peeked out from behind a tree and gazed at him. "Who the heck is this clown?"

The unicorn, having heard her, turned and saw her. Tiara didn't move when he looked, feeling a shiver go though her soul. both parties didn't say a word to each other. In the end, the unicorn flapped his 'wings' and took off, disappearing into the sky above.

"Who... was that?" Tiara gasped. She never saw that Unicorn in town before- not then, not in Ponyville, not ever. But something about him felt familiar. More importantly, what happened to Crown? Tiara ran to the stroller and found her still sound asleep. He must've been just passing though, but who the heck is he? Maybe her father has some answers.

"Hey there T!"

Applebloom approached her fiancee and kissed her on the cheek. She then turned her attention to little Crown. "Hey there, Crowny. how are you doing?" Crown woke up to the sound of Applebloom's voice and saw who she considers her father looking at her. she laughed and reached up to her. "Oh, you just woke up. Sorry." She picked up Crown and held her tight.

Tiara watched her and smiled. Applebloom is doing such a good job being Crown's other mother. T's so lucky to have Applebloom in her life. But that wasn't much to distract her from that mystery pony. "Hey, Applebloom."

"Hmm?"

"When you walked here, did you see a mysterious pony?"

"Mysterious Pony?"

"Yeah. foreboding and frightening and all around scary?"

"No. I saw no one like that. Unless one of the wedding planners made Crown cry."

"No, none of them did that. ugh... i don't know. maybe i was seeing things. i could swear i saw him before somewhere."

Applebloom scrunched her mouth to the side, not really sure what Tiara is talking about. "If you say so." She returned her attention to Crown for a moment. "Oh! i forgot. Babs Seed and Silver Spoon can't make it on friday."

"Aho, man." Tiara was really hoping her best friend back in Ponyville could come. "why not?"

"They're having their own in a couple of days."

Tiara couldn't help but go, "awe! They're having a wedding too? Man, the Apple family has some odd timing."

"Tell me about it." Applebloom muttered. "And they'll be on their honeymoon at the same time we have our Wedding so... no Spoon and Babs at ours."

"Oh, man." Tiara sat down. "i was hoping my best friend would be here. and i can't go to hers, either. Geez, this sucks."

Applebloom's not arguing there. She was hoping Babs could come as well, and she knows Tiara misses her best friend Silver Spoon something fierce. She mentioned something about that some time before Crown was born. If only there was some way she can cheer Tiara up about this.

Then she got a good idea on how to cheer Tiara. It's so great, it's foolproof.

Her curiosity about that pony gaining ground over her wedding plans, Tiara had to ask her father Filthy Rich if he knew that Unicorn. As with every Wednesday, he's his study reading both financial reports and the daily paper. Tiara knocked on the door, getting his attention.

"Tiara? What's going on? is somethign wrong?"

"Nothing's wrong dad, i just have a question."

"A question?"

Tiara nodded then walked in. "earlier today, i saw a mystery pony that... Faust, i swear i met him before. Dad, did you ever meet a black stallion Unicorn?"

"Black Stallion Unicorn?" Filthy Rich thought for a moment. "Hmm.... I know a number of black ponies that are stallions and Unicorns."

Time for more info. "Well, he has a red cape that can transform into wings, and red and green eyes with purple fire coming out the sides. His horn was curved and dark red- blood red, i guess."

Rich shook his head. "Still nothing. Maybe your eyes are playing tricks on you. I know you've been working hard on this wedding. I remember when i was marrying your mom. I stayed up so long, i saw a Hydra outside my window. Which is odd because i lived in Dodge Junction at the time and Hydras are nowhere near there."

Is that it? is she hallucinating? She has been staying up late planning this wedding. "Yeah... maybe you're right, dad. Maybe i need a nap. I'm gonna catch a few Z's. See you later, Dad." She walked out and headed for her room.

When Rich heard the door down the hall close. "Sombra... here?" he put the paper down and sat back, holding his head. "I thought he was dead for the past 40 years. Where was he all this time? I didn't hear from my cousin since that incident with Celestia and his home town." He looked out the window. "Sombra... where have you been all this time? What have you been doing?"
...

"Do you really want to know?"

Rich jumped in his seat when he heard Sombra's voice. The Dark King walked out of the shadows and into plain view. He looked more sinister but it was the same Sombra Rich remembers 40 years ago.

"Sombra... you are alive."

"Alive and kicking, as the kids these days put it."

"What are you doing here?"

Sombra walked out and to a nearby bookcase. "A Uncle can't be here for his own grandnieces wedding? That's blasphemous, don't you think?"

"That's not what i meant. I-- we thought you were dead. Me, Velvet, Shimmer, Tabitha, Malice, Sunshine, even Tulip. We thought you were dead. What exactly happened? Speaking of which, why do you look like that?"

Sombra expected that question to be at the forefront, not 4 questions in. "Celestia happened. Some idiot called her, telling her i was using my powers to cause trouble, when it was the exact opposite. When she heard what my power was..." Rich's shadow came out of the floor, scaring him. "She attempted to kill me, without even giving me a chance to surrender. I fled and lived in hiding. And as for how i look, let's see you live in a abandoned castle out in the middle of the arctic, honing your skills."

Rich's shadow went back into the floor, giving him a sense of relief. "Princess Celestia really tried to do that?"

"Almost succeeded, too. I was planning on returning a 15 years ago, but the Humans arrival and all the messes that followed put that to rest." Rich remembers those clear as day.

"So... you're coming back now?"

Sombra hid a evil smile from his cousin. "In a sense. But i won't be back for another 2 years. i have something big planned."

"Something big? Like a party?"

"Eh... not... exactly. But it will be one to remember." Sombra walked to where he appeared. "Don't tell the others i'm alive. Not yet, anyway."

"Okay. But what about Tulip?"

Sombra stopped in his tracks and thought about his old crush for a moment. He closed his eyes and breathed heavily before replying, "Tulip too." He walked into the shadows and disappeared before Rich could get another word in.

"Ahh!"

Applebloom yelled at the mess that was the wedding cake. It was a complete disaster with the decorations being just placed on without any planning, and the figures of the bride and groom? they didn't have any in stock. The cake people had to go with a Power Pony figure; the red one, and a Soundwave toy.

Tiara cocked her head to the side, looking at it from a different angle. "Well that's...... that's un..........." By the look on Applebloom's face, they both have the same conclusion. "Horrible. that looks absolutely horrible."

"How could..." She headed to the door and caught up to the cake people who delivered it. "How could you guys mess this up?!"

One of the more gruff ponies pulled out a pencil with his magic and tapped it on a floating clipboard. "Well, you said it was a rush order and this is a rush order."

"a 3 month order! You had plenty of time to make it right!!"

"Sorry miss. But you should've--"

Applebloom slammed the door shut, not wanting to hear anymore. "Faust, can anything else go wrong?" She fell onto the couch and groaned, rubbing her eyes. "I can see why Rarity went insane at her and Uncle Spike's wedding. Wedding's are a hassle to put together."

"No kidding." Tiara said as she sat down as well. "Down there at the site, it was a disaster zone."

Applebloom can see in her mind how horrible it must look. "Ugh.... this has been one disaster after another." Tiara got closer to her future wife and kissed her on the cheek. "This is just a disaster."

"It's okay, Applebloom."

"No it's not. I wanted you to have the perfect wedding and it's being ruined."

Tiara chuckled. "Applebloom, i never wanted a big fancy wedding."

"Really?"

"Yes, really. I never liked large crowds. Why do you think i didn't go to The Royal Wedding? or your attempt to get your Cutie Marks for singing heavy metal?"

Applebloom remembers that and remembers how horrible they all looked in that makeup. She still has nightmares about it. It made her chuckle. "You sure?"

"Yes. As long as i have you and Crown, i'll be the happiest mare there is. At least until someone finds a treasure somewhere and strikes it rich, then i'd be the second happiest mare there is."

That made Applebloom chuckle. "So... what do we do now? Our planned wedding is a disaster and you don't like crowds."

Tiara wondered what to do too. After a couple of seconds, she came up with a idea. "IS Fluttershy still in contact with her parents?"

Zim knocked on Applebloom's door, dressed in his best tux. "Hey Applebloom. Today's the big day! ya nervous?" Applebloom didn't reply. She must be a sound sleeper, Zim concluded. He knocked again. "A.P.? you in?" When she didn't reply, he got irritated. He opened the door and headed right in. "Applebl--"

Applebloom wasn't in. Her bed hasn't been touched at all. "What in the..." Confused, Zim walked out and headed down to the kitchen. Downstairs, Snow was feeding Flower and she wasn't like the food she was being given. "Applebloom in here?" Zim asked.

"No. why?"

"She disappeared. She's not in her room and she's not down here."

"You don't think she got cold feet, do you?"

"I don't think so. i know she was freaking out because of the disasters plaguing the wedding but that's nothing to quit about, right?"

"I don't know. Maybe she just went somewhere."

Zim's not really sure. He took a step and heard a crunch underneath. he looked and saw that he had stepped on a note. He picked it up and read what was written.

"What is it?" Snow asked.

Zim finished it and chuckled. "It's from Applebloom. She and Tiara are in Las Pegasus."

That don't sound right. "Las Pegasus? Why?"

"They're eloping."

Yep, they were. They flew there on Helios during the night and made arrangements with Fluttershy's mother's, who work as part-time bridesmaids at a wedding chapel, to get married there. As Las Pegasus was a gambling town, it was hard finding the fanciest one. They did find one and they liked it. Mostly because it was themed on the inside and it was a theme that spoke to a 3 month old filly.

the theme: Care Bears.

"You build it, they will come." Applebloom sighed, looking at the wall decor.

"Can we get on with this?" The Parishioner, dressed as Luck Bear, irritatingly said. "I got another wedding in 10 minutes." Fluttershy's mother's gave him a stern look but he didn't notice it. One of them was holding Crown, who was cooing and eating one of her hooves.

"Right right." Tiara and Applebloom headed over and gathered in front of him.

"Okay, before we begin, do the Bride and un.... Bride have any vows they'd like to share?"

"Yes. we do." they both said. Applebloom pulled out hers and went first.
"Tiara... i cannot think of anyone else i can be with other then you. You are just the most amazing mare out there and i love you for it. You are smart, wise, funny. and you have the most amazing smile and hair i'm jealous of and... i got like 4 more lines about this, so i'm skipping ahead." She did that and went ahead 2 cards. Tiara chuckled warmly. "Okay... Tiara, we may have had a rough spot when we were fillies but to me, that was paradise because it was you. I loved you then as much as i love you now and that will never, ever change. As long as i am with you, i will do everything i can to make you and Crown very very happy. i love you and i never want to be apart from you.

Tiara sniffled as her eyes started to water. This is going to be tough to top.

"Applebloom... You are such a dweeb and i love that. When we were fillies, i may have hated you but now... now i see that was a horrendous mistake. Cause now, i see the most amazing mare right in front of me, wanting to spend her life with me. and the reason for the hate was because i was jealous. I was jealous about your big family. i was jealous that you had great friends. i was jealous that you... were you. But now that jealously has washed away and turned into love, undying love i have for you. I love you, Applebloom, with every beat of my heart and every breath that i take. I love you and i wish to be with you forever."

That brought a tear to everyone's eye, including Cannon and Rise. "It's a Kodiak moment."

They weren't expecting to hear Rise's voice. They looked and saw their whole Trottingham friends gathered at the entrance. "When did you guys get here?"

"Just now. And i must say, it took forever to find you." Cadence said.

"Aunt Cadence?!" Applebloom exclaimed in surprise. "What are you doing here?"

"What, i wasn't going to miss my nieces wedding, was i? The others couldn't make it and they send their apologies; Pinkie Pie found the Mirror Pool and now there's a whole horde of Pinkie's invading Ponyville."

Applebloom softly chuckled. It's always something, but a horde of Pinkies? Faust help them. "It's okay. Sounds like they're dealing with something worse then Discord and Chrysalis combined so i can forgive them."

"Well come on! Get married already!" Rise exclaimed, getting very very impatient.

Both mares rolled their eyes and chuckled. They looked at each other's eyes and smiled. "Are we ready?" The Parishioner asked. They both nodded, not looking away from each other. Cadence walked up and, at his gesture, took his spot and job. "Okay. Applebloom, do you take Diamond Tiara to be your lawfully wedded Wife, so long as you both shall live?"

"I do."

"And Diamond Tiara, do you take Applebloom to be your lawfully wedded... un, husband, so long as you both shall live?"

"I do."

"Then be the power vested in me as Princess, i now pronounce you WIfe and... un... Wife. You may now kiss the bride."

Now together forever, though eternity and beyond, in the eyes of their friends and family, Applebloom and Tiara kissed the best kiss of their lives.

Outside, Sombra looked it. Off to the side where no one would find him, he watched as his niece got married.

"It won't be long now." He looked to Silver Crown. Her forehead glowed with a mark for a brief second. "Not long at all... Soon, everything will change."

He disappeared in a puff of smoke as Applebloom's and Tiara's friends applauded.

"Starlight... Silver Crown... together, we will all change the world...

and the Universe itself..."

Author's Note

bet you guys weren't expecting that twist with Sombra and Tiara, did you? remember, in this little universe of mine, Season 3 and beyond don't happen as the humans arrive just a couple weeks after Armor's and Cadence's wedding.

Trouble

Applebloom, Tiara, and Crown were having quite a lively time in Ponyville, much to Crown's surprise cause she expected it to be BORING, being a town in the middle of nowhere. So imagine her surprise when it turned out to be fun and lively. She also spent a lot of time with her aunt Applejack and Twilight, getting to know the most famous people in her family. She was told that she had some big names in her family, but not ponies as big as Celestia, Luna, and Cadence! Now she has something to lord over her future friends when she goes to Preschool.

One of the reasons Applebloom came was because she wanted Crown to meet her cousins; Starlight, Goldie, Peppy, Glade, Woona, Marian, Filigree, and Fire Ruby. But they weren't here.

The reason why was something they didn't expect.

Two weeks ago, Starlight ran away. She found out that Halo isn't her real father and attacked him. After that, she ran away to find her real dad. Glade went after her to bring her home, and a couple days after, Goldie, Filigree, and the rest of Starlight's friends and family went after her as well to actually help her.

it had been a couple of weeks since they all left and Twilight has been down for quite a bit. Maybe the coming celebration will help cheer her up.

The celebration was to celebrate the end of the Winter War 18 years ago. It was mostly placed in Ponyville and has the townsfolk remembering those lost in the war, such as Rainbow's half-brother Soarin'. While it is a wake, they don't focus on that part for long as they have games and booths and lots of fun.

"Auntie Twilight! Come on! I want to read the book!" Crown whined, trying to get at the book Twilight was keeping out of her reach.

"Not a chance, Crown. You are far too young to read a book of this caliber." And she's right. By pure chance, she found a book called the Ponay Sutra and figured it to be a picture book. These aren't the pictures a filly like her should see until she's older.... and married.

Crown pouted and walked off in defeat. at that moment, Applebloom walked in. "Come on, Twi. gotta get ready for the festivities, right?"

Twi sighed as she put the book away. "I don't know, Applebloom. I mean... it's just been hard since Starlight left. Pinkie's party last week was a good chance to cheer me up but... it didn't work."

Applebloom sighed. "Auntie... isn't there anything that can cheer you up?"

"No.... i just can't... not with Starlight gone. Even seeing you after 3 years didn't help." Applebloom whimpered, lowering her ears. "By the way, Diamond Tiara? I thought the two of you hated each other."

"When we were fillies, Twi. Ponies change over time. You know that better then anyone with Halo and Trixie and eTu`nes and--"

"I get it, i get it. but still, marriage and a daughter... that's something."

"Yeah. and you can imagine Tiara's and Crown's surprise when i told them who they were related to. they freaked out completely, in a happy way."

That made Twi and Bloom laugh. that's the first time since Starlight ran away that she actually laughed, and she needed it. "Thanks, Applebloom. i needed that."

"Te Nada." Twi lifted a eyebrown in confusion. "That's a thing from Rise. Not sure where she got it from." Twi exclaimed in understandment then went back to being depressed. Applebloom tried to cheer her up again. "Hey, come on Auntie. This is Starlight we're talking about. She's a Alicorn with power over time. I'm pretty sure she can keep out of trouble. And she also has all her friends and family with her. She'll be fine."

Twi looked at her niece with worried eyes. "Are you sure?"

"Positive."

Twi's known the Apple Family for years and knows they never lie, especially Applejack and, recently, Applebloom. "If you say so."

"Please... i know so! Trust me, i've never steered anyone wrong... except for Cannon when i went on his first carriage drive and gave him the wrong directions." That made Twilight laugh again.

As the night of the Winter War Remembrance drew near, Crown was busy playing peek-a-boo with the new babies Ditzy and Oscurita, Dinky's and Pip's kids that they had just 2 days ago.

"And you're saying that Crown is half-Gryphon, with her father being a pure sadist?" Dinky asked Tiara, who sat at a table with her

"Yeah. and she doesn't show it. And i like that. Green Star was a bad person to be around with and i am so glad he's at that mental institute in Baltimare."

Dinky whistled passively. "If you say so, Tiara. i'm not judging you. After all, you were pretty mean yourself."

Tiara lowered her head in shame. "Don't remind me. that's a part of my life i wish i could forget." Dinky sighed in agreement. She wishes that too. "Right now, i'm wondering when she'll get her Gryphon attributes, if at all."

"Gryphon Attributes? Like a beak or a lion tail?"

"I'm thinking more along the lines of wings. like you."

Dinky looked back to her draconic wings courtesy of eTu`nes, a dragon, being her dad. "Remember that i was going on 8 when these came in! And it hurt like Holy Tartarus when they ripped out."

Tiara mouthed 'wow'. She had no idea. "But we can both agree that Foalbirth is much, MUCH more painful then that, right?"

Dinky replied instantly, "Oh, yeah."

Pip walked around a corner, carrying some boxes on his back. "Come on, Dinks. we gotta get ready for the Remembrance."

"Yeah yeah." Dinky got up and headed to grab Ditzy and Oscurita. "See you in a couple of hours Tiara, Crown."

"See you in a couple of hours too." Tiara replied.

Tiara is glad that Applebloom's old friends have taken a liking to her, even if it took longer then expected. She also found out a lot of other things about her new friends. Dinky ran off with her aunt Daring Do, who turns out to not be a book character as it turned out, and became a adventure with her, Pip, and Daring's Gryphon husband Silverbolt.

Scootaloo went on to be a reporter in the Gryphon Kingdom with her hubbo Feather Weight, who became her camera man.

and Sweetie Belle... just walk into a record store and you'll hear one of her huge hit singles playing. She's so famous, she can barely go anywhere without being swarmed. Thank goodness everyone in Ponyville just remembers her as Sweetie Belle and not the new Queen of Pop.

"Good for them. They're making something of their lives. Wish i did something like that." But she doesn't care. as long as she has Applebloom and Silver Crown, she's happy. Besides, with Applebloom being a famous vet back home and Crown showing exceptional mental prowess, she has a feeling she'll be known.

The hours quickly passed and the Winter War Remembrance began. After a wake remembering all those who perished in the war, they all went on to party. They all expected the Princess' and their special someones to come. They didn't expect the Changeling Queen Chrysalis, her right hand man Leon, and her left hand woman Friction to come. It was quite the surprise.

For their close-knit group, the party drew to a close when Spike received a letter via his magic fire.

A letter... from Starlight.

The lights at the library came on as Twilight quickly walked in. she had gotten the envelope open and pulled out the letter just as her friends followed her in, most of them wondering what got her in such a frenzy. Twi threw the envelope onto a table and started to look at the letter when, “what did she say?” Vinyl asked.

“Give her a moment, Vinyl.” Zilver said. “It’s her daughter.”

Applebloom and Tiara came in last, Crown standing on Bloom's back. "What's going on, Mommy?" She quietly asked.

"I don't know." Bloom replied. She honestly doesn't know.

With a heavy and worried heart, Twi opened it up and read it out loud.

“hey, Mom. It’s me… Starlight…

“hehe… I’m not sure what to write here. I left things on such bad terms with you that I was worried I wouldn’t write to you again. But… I worked up the courage so… here goes.

“first off, Goldie. She’s alive and unaffected by Nightmare Moon. We found someone who exorcised Nightmare out of Goldie and the Alicorn Amulet and took her out of existence fully. Unless she was able to find a way to hide a part of herself in other objects, Nightmare Moon is gone completely. Goldie is better as well… except her wings are broken beyond repair. Is it possible for Shadow to make a special device for her to help her fly? I know he makes them for adults but, if he can make one for Goldie, it would help ease that part of Marians soul.

“Oh, and about Marian, she still feels bad about what happened but is slowly getting past it, thanks to her new marefriend Windancer. That’s right, Trixie, Luna, eTu`nes, and Derpy, your daughters shacked up. And it wasn’t just them. Glade fell in love with the pony who helped him find me, Screw Loose. It was gradual, though, and I don’t think they’re at ‘that point’ yet, but they did hook up. And I think I see a romance blossoming between Season’s Edge and Filigree. They’ve been giving each other googliy eyes across the room. They think we don’t see it but we see it.

“now to the more… somber stuff. Mom… thanks for sending me that letter. I really needed that. Knowing that Halo loved me… it helped me out a lot. Halo… Dad… if you’re the one reading this, I’m sorry for what I did to you. I never expected for that to happen and I apologize. But it’s nice to know who your family is.

“speaking of family… I found him, mom. I found my real dad. And he’s not… who I expected him to be.

“that Necromancer I went to search for to help me point in his direction? He IS my father. We didn’t believe it at first but… his eyes. We have the same eyes. You know that thing that happens every time I get mad; when they go red and green with purple fire out the sides? He does it too. And it’s genetic only in his family. There’s no question about it. He’s my father.

“his name is Sombra and he’s been living out in this castle for Faust knows how many years. His special talent is in the manipulation of shadows and though some bad instances, he had to make himself scarce for fear that Aunt Celestia might kill him. And he only leaves whenever ‘the call of nature’ kicks in… which lead to the… incident in Feather Top that… lead to my conception. He doesn’t know why I’m a Alicorn myself or why I have power over time but… better some answers then no answers, right?

“I sent a picture of him with this letter. I wish you could see him in person. He has this certain… aura that I can’t describe. He’s just someone you have to meet to know.

“he’s allowed us to stay for as long as we like but, for reasons I explained, I’m afraid this’ll be the last letter we send. He has a barrier that prevents any magical from leaving or entering his residence. I don’t blame him. Aunt Celestia can be scary at times. And I just met him. I don’t want him to die.

“and Mom… I miss you. And Halo. I miss you both.

“Love…

Starlight Sparkle Sombra.

“P.S.. tell Rainbow Dash that we have a surprise for her. I don’t want to spoil it but it’s something she’ll like.”

“She did it…” Twilight gasped. She dropped the letter as she looked on in shock. “She found her real father.” Halo walked over and comforted her.

Cadence took the letter away from her distrat and shocked sister-in-law. “Sombra… quite a scary name.”

Very. And Starlight’s description of him… that made the Changeling’s nervous. “Didn’t she say she sent a picture?” Armor said.

“Oh, right. She did.” Halo went to grab it.

Shadow walked over to Twi and patted her on the back. “I’ll do what I can for Goldie but don’t expect much. The design just wouldn’t work for colts and fillies.”

Twi looked to him with somber eyes and sighed. “Yeah. I know. But try your best, Shadow. Please?”

“I will.”

Dash chuckled and rubbed her hooves together. “I wonder what surprise they got me.” she chuckled. “maybe it’s a cool rug, or a new Daring Do book. OH! Maybe that Sombra fella has a book with aerial moves that haven’t been seen in years!”

Tiara rolled her eyes. Dash just doesn't deal with somber moments, does she?

Halo grabbed the envelope and shook the picture out. He grabbed it and whistled. “Guy looks scary. Hard to believe Starlight came from him.” he gave the picture to Twilight.

She took it and gave a good long look at it. Very foreboding looking. And scary. “Well… don’t keep us in the dark.” Trixie said. “Who is he?” Twilight memorized the picture and used her magic to create a 3D projection of the pony in the picture.

Curious to who he was, Chrysalis grabbed the picture and looked at it. What she saw made her gasp in fear. “no… it can’t be him…”

“Huh?” Marble asked.

“it’s him!”

“Him who!?” Luna added. Crown and Tiara exchanged odd glances.

Twilight finished making the image so the Changelings and everyone could see it.

Begin Song:

The Key - Kingdom Hearts: Birth by Sleep OST

The image of a large, black, foreboding Unicorn appeared in front of them. The Changelings know who it was to heart. Tiara gasped in shock. That's the same stallion she saw back at her wedding, the Unicorn who's cape turned into wings.

“IT’S HIM!” the Changelings exclaimed.

“Who!?” the ponies all yelled.

“He’s the one who forced us to invade Equestria both times!” Chrysalis said, looking as angry and as scary as Dark Chrysalis. “he’s the one who corrupted out kingdom and nearly wiped us all out!” her horn glowed. “or did you forget?”

Using her magic, Chrysalis summoned up the history of the Changeling Empire as a large 3D projection. Sure enough, that dark Unicorn was there, corrupting their land and spreading chaos and war.

“It is him!” the ponies all exclaimed.

Chrysalis stopped playing it and brought up the image of the pony in her projection and put it next to Twilight’s. they are an exact match.

“the manipulation of shadows…” Celestia muttered. She gasped when she figured it out. “of course!”

“of course what, my sister?” Luna asked.

Applebloom, Tiara, and Crown have completely lost track of what's going on but by the sounds of their tones, it wasn't pleasant.

“Long before you came back, I was asked by a small village located near the outskirts to rout out a madman. Apparently, he had the ability to use shadows. He had built up a army made out of shadows and nearly destroyed the place. By the time I arrived, I saw who it was.” she turned her attention to the projections. “A black Unicorn who’s heart was as black as the night, spreading destruction as pleasure. But… at the time, he was no more then 5. When he saw me, he fled into the mountains. It took me weeks but I couldn’t find him. I figured he’d gone into hiding.”

“and not long after that, he attacked my kingdom…” Chrysalis muttered. “Sending this whole motion of events into action that lead to the Winter War!”

Twilight couldn't believe this. The father of her daughter was a madman who could use shadows for evil intent. There must be some mistake. There’s just no way. Applebloom can only imagine what she's going though now.

Fluttershy gasped out of fear. “our children are with him.”

They are. They forgot that. Knowing she would be stepping out of her bounds, Celestia turned to the Changelings. “Leon. Friction. Starlight’s first letter said she was heading north. Go after her and warn her and her friends about Sombra.”

The two of them stood still because this was a pony and not their queen.

“Do it!” Chrysalis ordered. Fearing her response, the two of them nodded.

“Hold on.” Derpy said. She grabbed a pen and paper. “My sister Daring Do is in Baltimare with her husband Silverbolt.” she quickly wrote down the situation and gave it to Friction. “they should be investigating the Wyrm Pass located near there. They should be of help; Daring is a decent marital artist and Bolt’s a Gryphon.” the two Changelings nodded and flew out the door.

“we should at least try to send them a warning!” Marble said.

“Didn’t you hear? Sombra’s residence has a magical barrier around it, preventing any magic going in and coming out.” Octavia said.

The group looked to the two images of the evil unicorn; one showing him as a regal ruler, another as a genocidal madman. As much as they hate to hate it, their children are on their own with him.

“Starlight…” Twilight said with worry. How can this monster be her father? Why? “please be safe…”

Crown's head hurt, making her hold it. "Mommy... i don't feel so good.'' She fainted and fell off Applebloom's back.

"Crown!" Tiara caught her. Suddenly, she started to feel bad.

"Ugh... i don't feel so hot either..." Derpy groaned.

It wasn't just Crown, Tiara, and Derpy. Dinky, Rainbow Dash, Lyra, Octavia, and even Chrysalis were feeling crummy. As well as countless other Ponies, Gryphons, Dragons, and Diamond Dogs around the world.

To make matters more confusing and mysterious, glyphs started to appear on their foreheads.

"What in Equestria is going on?!" Applejack exclaimed.

Lightning fell outside from suddenly appearing clouds, cutting the party short and making everyone take cover indoors. Off in the great, GREAT distance, a beam of light shot into the air and tore a hole in the air itself.

"I don't know, Applejack." Celestia replied. "But what i do know... is that Equestria- no, the world... is facing one of it's worse crises yet." She looked to the projection of Sombra. "And he's the cause of it."

Applebloom looked at her wife and daughter in deep worry. "What's going on..." She worriedly whimpered in silence.

Far Away, in a dark and forbidding castle, deep within it's basement, Sombra was getting ready to make his move. Behind him, a machine sparked to life; a tower with many levels and a glass ball on top big enough to house a Alicorn.

"The time has come for the univese to change..."

He glanced down at the unconscious Starlight at his hooves. "And you shall the one lead the way, my greatest creation. And soon, all of our kin will come and join us as we set out with our compatriots to eradicate these beings of light. Starting..."

He turned the machine on to full strength, sending the beam up into the air.

"With the death of Princess Celestia..."

To be concluded... in Starlight, Starbright.

Author's Note

Out of nowhere? Yes. Unneeded? Definitely. Shameless tie-in to another story? You betcha.

Applebloom's and Tiara's story ended back at their wedding. the last two chapters was to tie it into another.

Wife Tiara meets the CMC

*Foreward warning: Most of this chapter was copied and pasted from Starlight, Starbright. so.... yeah.*

Two years passed since Applebloom and Diamond Tiara's wedding, and the two of them couldn't be happier.

They've had trouble trying to find a house big enough for the 3 of them. Only thing they kept finding were apartments too small for them. So they've been living at Zim's until a house opens up. They don't know how long but they'll wait as long as possible.

Not long after the wedding, Applebloom found a invitation that didn't go out. That letter... was Applejack's. Bloom is now afraid of her sister's reprisal if she finds out she wasn't invited to her baby sister's wedding.

Silver Crown is growing up into a vibrant young unicorn filly along side her cousin Ice Flower, who's also a unicorn. Crown is certainly lively with always a word to say. Even two years in and they can't find what Green Star's contribution to her genetic structure is. If it's his libido when she turns into a teen, then Tiara's going to deck him.

Speaking of Green Star, Ms. Screw Ball said in her letter that he's making progress in his anger management classes. If he keeps this up, he may be released early. That was 12 days ago and they didn't get a letter from her since.

Other then that, life was pretty much great.

a Equestria Girls doll, modeled after Applejack, was magically manipulated into a tired pose.

Remember that in my stories, Season 3 and beyond didn't happen thanks to Requiem and the humans visiting. In this canon of mine, Equestria Girls is a animated tv show based, with their permission, on the Elements of Harmony as High School girls. Sunset Shimmer is Twilight's rival for the affection of Halo's Light and not the evil demon queen she was in the movie. Their other pony friends and lovers; Trixie, Gilda, Zilver, and Edge, among many others, appear as well. Every so often, they'd bring in the humans that inspired them to make the show; the humans who visited Equestria before- Requiem, Aura, Bahamut, Ash, Jax, Sora, and Satoshi.

"Oh... i'm so tired." Flower said in a effected voice, trying to mimic the Voice Actress.

Another doll, this one modeled after a certain blue cute and fluffy alien from Disneigh, was magically manipulated by Crown. "Argh. i'm hungry! Gimme your purse! Leather's my favorite food."

"Not a chance, you ugly thing."

"I'm not ugly. i'm cute and fluffy."

Crown then had the alien doll attack the Applejack doll, trying to nab the purse. "Ahh. No. this has all my things in it!"

The two of htem kept up their little pretend fight until they were called by Tiara. "Crown! Flower! Dinner!"

"In a moment, Mom!" Crown replied.

"...... it's Dandelion Burgers!"

That was all they needed. They shot in like a bullet, making Tiara and Zim spin in their spot. Applebloom and Snow were almost dragged out of their chairs by the unexpected shockwave. They sat in their chairs like little angels, with halos and big smiles. "Let's eat."

Tiara wobbled to the table, setting down the platter of burgers before falling.

"So Mommy, when are we going to Ponyville?" Crown asked as she grabbed her burger.

"Tomorrow at 11." Applebloom said as she grabbed hers. "Man, Applejack's gonna be surprised when she sees us."

Tiara lifted her head up and shook her head to stop the spinning eyes. She's worried about going, not because of Applejack, but because of Applebloom's friends; Dinky, Pip, Scootaloo, Feather Weight, Sweetie Belle, Rumble, Babs, and Silver Spoon. They knew Applebloom was getting married, but she didn't say to who. She's afraid of how they'll react.

Crown couldn't wait. She heard a lot of stories about her aunts and uncles and can't wait to meet them. She's so antsy, she could barely contain her excitement.

"I wish i could come." Flower somberly said, placing her head on the table.

"Maybe next time." Snow said.

Flower groaned. That's what she said the last time as well.

"Come on! We'll have loads of fun here!" Zim exclaimed. "While your mom is catching her job interview, we can go and see that Equestria Girls movie you wanted to see."

"It's not the same without Crown..."

"We'll go see it when i get back." Crown said. "Promise."

Applebloom smiled. She may not be her daughter but she sure did get her honest heart.

The next day came, which Crown could not sleep for. as soon as they boarded the train, however, she fell asleep. when the train set off, Tiara got more nervous each mile they got closer. At hte halfway point, Tiara told her nervousness out loud.

“I… I don’t know about this, Applebloom. I wasn’t exactly the best pony to be around.” Tiara said, digging her fore-hooves into it’s thighs.

Applebloom, who was looking out the window, turned to her and sighed with a chuckle. “Trust me, they will. I love you and I’m sure they’ll love you too.”

“Are you sure? You didn’t exactly tell anyone in any of your letters. You’re being as cautious as I am.”

Tiara had her there. Applebloom nervously chuckled as she scratched her neck. “well… true. But that was only because I couldn’t think of a way to explain it over a letter. But maybe meeting you and Crown in person is the best way to introduce you.”

Tiara sighed. “If you say so.”

Applebloom seductively chuckled and kissed her waifu. “Trust me. It’ll be okay. Besides, I’m sure my friends won’t make a big spectacle.” she paused for a moment. “Well, Babs Seed might.” Tiara chuckled. Applebloom chuckled as well.

The train rolled into Ponyville at 7 at night and Crown was still asleep. They rented a hotel room and put Crown to sleep there. On the way out, they learned, and heard loudly, that there's a party going on at Twilight's place. What a better place to introduce Tiara to her old friends. They wanted a carriage, not wanting to walk all the way, and headed there.

The carriage rolled up to the library and stopped in front of it.

“still not sure this is a good idea.” Applebloom’s companion said.

“Trust me. It’s gonna go fine. They’ll love ya.” Applebloom walked out of the carriage. “just wait here until I call you in. Boy, Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, and Silver Spoon are going to be surprised when they see you.”

“I’m sure they will.”

Applebloom turned and headed to the door.

Applebloom opened the door to find that everyone was having one hell of a time partying and chattering. She waited there to see how long it would take anyone to notice her. Applejack finally noticed her after a full minute. “Applebloom!” she exclaimed. She ran over and hugged her little sister. “It’s been far too long, squirt.”

Applebloom didn’t fight it and hugged her back. “Nice to see you too, Sis. Been a long time, hasn’t it?”

“yeah. At least 4 years.” Applejack and Applebloom hugged each other again. “So, what’s up? Anything new happen to ya?” he asked, trying to hide that she heard that heard from Babs that she had a special somepony.

“Nice. Helios is doing great, looking after the ol’ homestead outside of Trottingham. Being a Vet is quite the paying job. Speaking of which…” Applebloom reached back and pulled out a bag of bits, which she tossed to Applejack. “Here. I heard that the farm wasn’t doing so good.”

“It wasn’t. and thanks. This’ll help.”

Applebloom stayed quiet for a moment, not sure how to say this next part. “Listen, Sis. There’s something I have to tell you.”

“What?”

“Well…”

“APPLEBLOOM!”

Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, and Babs dog-piled on her, causing them to fall over onto the floor. Feather Weight, Pip, Silver Spoon, and a heavily pregnant Dinky just watched with wide smiles as they swarmed Applebloom. “Oh, it’s so great to see you!” the 3 of them all said.

Applebloom was also ecstatic to see her friends again. “yeah. It’s good to see you guys too.” Applejack rolled her eyes and got them off before they could smother her to death.

“So what’s the deal? You stopped writing 11 months ago. Why?” Sweetie Belle asked.

Applebloom scratched her cheek. “well, I was… busy.”

“Busy?” Pip asked. “busy with what?”

“Eh… getting married, for one.”

A.J. angrily frowned. “You got married and didn’t tell me?”

“well… yeah. Sorry, Sis.”

“I just wish you told me.”

Applebloom put her hoof around her sister in a friendly way. “Tell you what, sis. Next time I get married, I’ll be sure to invite you. Okay?” she said in a joking manner.

“Applebloom…”

“I’m serious.”

Scootaloo rolled her eyes. “So, who’s the lucky stallion?”

Applebloom paused for a moment. “Eh… he’s a mare.”

“A mare?” A.J. said with a confused eyebrow raised. “You never let on you were a Filly-Fooler. Though that would explain why you could never keep a guy for more then a month.”

“I know. I didn’t realize it until I met back up with her.”

“Met back up?” Dinky muttered to herself.

“So. Who’s the lucky mare?” Feather Weight asked, not hearing Dinky‘s suspicions.

Applebloom thought on how to reveal who it was. “well… it’s probably better if I show you.”

“Show us?” Dinky asked.

“yeah.”

Applebloom lead her friends and her sister Applejack out to the carriage. The others stayed at the party because, well, it’s a party. And a Pinkie Pie party, with some help from her friends.

“What’s going on, Applebloom?” Pip asked. “What can’t you tell us?”

Applebloom stopped in mid-step. She turned her head back to them. “Listen, she’s… nervous about meeting you all. She didn’t really leave things on a pleasant note with you guys.”

“Pleasant note?” they all muttered.

“And please. Don’t freak out when you see her.” Applebloom pleaded. Everyone, not really sure what she’s going on about, nodded in agreement.

That was all Tiara needed as she opened the door by herself. To everyone’s surprise, including Applebloom’s former CMC friends, Applebloom’s wife was none other then…

“DIAMOND TIARA!?!” they all yelled in surprise.

“Hi… guys.” a nervous and surprisingly meek Diamond Tiara said.

Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, and Dinky were shocked to see that Applebloom is married to Diamond Tiara. She was the worst bully ever. She’d make the kid from the game look tame.

“Applebloom, how can you be married to her? She was the worst pony in school!” Scootaloo exclaimed. Knowing full well this was a argument for them alone, Pip, Feather Weight, Babs, and Silver Spoon backed out of the picture.

“I know that…” Applebloom started, knowing what she was talking about. “but if you--”

“no no no. we want to know what was going though your mind when you decided that marrying Tiara was a good idea!?” Sweetie Belle demanded.

“She was--”

“just what was wrong with you?!” Dinky also demanded.

Applejack couldn’t believe what she was hearing. “Now hold on just a cotton-picking minute! I can’t believe what I’ma hearing here. My sister found happiness with a pony she loves deeply and all you have to say is that she’s messed up in the head?! Just what is wrong with you?”

“But she was…”

Applebloom stopped her. “I know Diamond Tiara was a bad bully back when you all were fillies but people can change over time.”

“Not Tiara!” Scoots sternly said. “Once a bully, Always a bully!”

Diamond Tiara tried to fight back the tears but couldn’t. she didn’t want them to see her cry so she ran off. “Tiara!” Applebloom called out. She angrily looked to her friends. “What is wrong with ya’ll!?” she exclaimed. “Tiara did change but you’re so focused on the past that you can’t accept the fact that she did change! You didn’t though a fit when Babs married Silver Spoon!”

“Because she didn’t know her the way we did!” Sweetie Belle exclaimed. “Tiara and Spoon were horrid bullies and you know it.”

“Yeah, I do. But I was able to overlook it!” A.B. angrily sighed. She turned to run after her wife when she stopped in mis-stride. She angrily looked back to her ’friends’. “Tiara has enough bad things in her life and she doesn’t need this piling on it.”

Applebloom left her so-called friends behind and ran after Tiara, leaving them confused by her last comment. “what bad stuff?” the 3 of them said, wondering what she meant by that.

Applebloom didn't look far to find Tiara; She found her in their hotel room, softly crying into a pillow. The yellow mare sat down next to her and comforted her.

“I knew coming here was a bad idea.” Tiara softly cried.

“I know and I should’ve listened. I was really hoping they would’ve gotten over the fact you were a bad bully and just accept you. I mean, my sister did.”

Tiara raised her head from the pillow. “True. But they still hate me.”

Applebloom stayed quiet. They sure didn’t show any love for this. Least A.J. was supportive, although she wasn’t happy of not being invited to the wedding. A idea then entered her mind, something that might work. But first, she had to find a filly that had disappeared. She didn’t have to look far. Heck, she didn’t have to look.

“Mommy!”

Crown ran out of the closet and piled onto Applebloom. Applebloom played along and fell onto the bed.

“Hey there, you little giddy squirt!” Applebloom chuckled.

“Hey there, Mommy.” the filly calmed down enough for Applebloom to put her down. “why was Mom crying?”

Applebloom and Diamond Tiara looked at each other. “Eh… it’s a long story, love.” Tiara said, wiping the last of her tears away. She used her magic to pull her up. “Come here, my little Silver Crown.”

Tiara’s pulled Crown over and she tickled her. Applebloom snickered evilly. She ducked down beneath the covers, pretending to be a ghost. “Ohh. Ohh. I am the ghost of hotel’s past.” Crown laughed as a little girl would. Tiara lightly chuckled at this. “I have come to warn you that pretty soon, your mother will be kissed by a yellow mare.” Applebloom pocked her head out of the other side and kissed Tiara on the lips.

Crown exclaimed like the toddler she is. “Mommy! A ghost came and told us Mom was going to be kissed by you!”

“Really?” Applebloom played along. “Did he say anything about the tickle monster?”

The cheer on Crown’s face was replaced with fear. “oh, no. no, not the tickle monster!” Applebloom laughed evilly then lunged at her daughter. Crown yelled as she ran into the closet and locked it.

Applebloom jumped back onto the bed with a wide smirk. “I can’t believe the plan worked. Now we’re alone.”

Tiara seductively chuckled and cuddled up next to her. “Really? Well then…”

The two of them shared a passionate kiss which Crown saw and went, “OOH!!”

“Silver Crown!” both Applebloom and Diamond Tiara exclaimed

the next day...

Applebloom stood by her sister’s stall in the Ponyville markets, showing Silver Crown the tricks of the trade, with Applejack, Zilver, Big Mac, and Diamond Tiara watching.

“Now, Crown, the key to finding a good, ripe apple is the same way you tell if a Watermelon is ripe.” she tapped it with the edge of her hoof. “Ya tap it.”

“Tap it?”

“yeah, Tap it?” Diamond Tiara added. “I never knew you could do that.” she asked Applejack.

“we don’t.” A.J. whispered. “it’s mostly about luck.” Tiara softly exclaimed. “hmhmhm. You’re gonna play your daughter for a fool, Applebloom.”

Applebloom heard but ignored her. She grabbed a few apples off the stall. “tell me, which ones are wipe?”

Crown grabbed the 4 apples and looked them over, tapping them. Zil and Mac silently chuckled. “Ripe. Ripe. Ripe. Rotten.” she tossed the ‘rotten’ one away.

“Rotten?” the apple family all said in surprise. Upon hitting the ground, it broke into nasty orange parts. “huh. Guess it was.” A.J. commented.

“Can’t win them all.” Zil said.

“ew. Where’d this come from?” Scootaloo said.

Applebloom looked to see her and the rest of her friends there. Friends that hurt her wife’s feelings yesterday. “What are you guys doing here?” she asked. “If it’s to further berate me, don’t.”

“no no no. it’s not that.” Dinky said. “we… should’ve have reacted the way we did.”

“We should’ve listened to the whole story before we freaked out.” Pip said.

Applebloom and Tiara momentarily glanced to each other. “You… really want to hear how me and Tiara met?” a hesitant Applebloom asked.

Sweetie Belle used her magic to pull up a table and a few chairs. “that answer your question?”

It did. It took them one argument but they’re finally going to hear it and finally see why she fell in love with her.

“I must admit, but I’m also curious.” Applejack said.

“me too.” Big Mac and Zilver said.

“Then you better sit down.” Applebloom said. “This is going to be awhile.”

As the apple family sat down, Tiara bent down to tell her daughter, “Crown, why don’t you go and see if you can find some nice picture books at Golden Oaks Library.”

“Okay, mommy.” the filly gave her mom a quick kiss on the cheek then headed to the library. Tiara smiled and joined Applebloom.

“So spill. When we were foals, you were mortal enemies.” Feather Weight said. “And now you’re married with a kid? How the heck did that happen?”

Applebloom wondered that herself, once upon a time. “well, if you’ll remember, Tiara moved to Trottingham with her father when her parents got a divorce, right?”

“Yeah. That’s when the humans were in town.” Applejack said.

“Oh, that’s what happened to her.” Dinky said. “And here I thought the author forgot her.”

The who? “Un… think you’re going crazy in your pregnancy, Dinks.” Babs said.

“Anyway…” Applebloom said, getting back to the subject at hand. “…we reunited 3 years ago, when I just moved in with cousin Zim Zam in Trottingham…”

Applebloom and Tiara explained the whole story to them, about how they met up again, the entire escapade with Green Star, meeting back up with Twist, Crown's birth, and getting married.

“And… here we are now.” Applebloom said. “telling you guys the whole story.”

“wow… it’s like fate brought you guys together all those years ago but only did the feelings blossom after a long time apart.” Sweetie Belle said. She stood still for a moment then brought out a pad and paper. “that would make a good song.”

Applejack patted her sister on the back. “I raised you well, sis, if you went up against someone like Green Star.”

“it was nothing.” Applebloom modestly replied.

Dinky, however, whimpered in fear. “it hurt that much?” she whimpered, gesturing to the birth, something she herself is going to have to go though any day now. To twins, no less.

“OH, yeah.” Tiara said, not even trying to hide it. “it hurts like HELL! You feel like you’re going to die; like your body is going to split apart.”

“I can vouch for that.” Applejack said, remembering her own traumatic experience with Peppy. “I didn’t think Peppy would fit though such a small opening.”

Dinky whimpered and began to hyperventilate. “Oh, I’m gonna kill you, Pip.”

“and we got a preview. How nice.” Babs joked.

“Dinky. Dinky. Calm down.” Tiara said. “yes, it hurts like there’s no tomorrow but, when you feel that little, tiny life form in your hooves for the first time and know that you created it… it makes up for the pain in spades.”

That filled the panicking mother-to-be with some hope. “you promise?”

Applejack and Tiara looked to each other and nodded. “Cross me heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye.” they both said.

“Speaking of babies, does Silver Crown know of her father?” Zilver asked.

“unfortunately, yes.” Applebloom said. “he came to the house a few months before we left, ranting a storm about how he’s going to get her, no matter what happens. Thankfully, Tiara’s father stepped in again and this time, sent him to a mental ward north of Baltimare.”

“Least it’s far enough away to where he won’t come back sometime soon.” Big Mac said.

“eeeyup.” Tiara and Applebloom said in unison.