Mingled Days

Chapters

"%i%" Eternity's End
"%i%" Chocolate Cosmos
"%i%" Discord
"%i%"Useless
"%i%" Shopping
"%i%" Yes
"%i%" Evening Routine
"%i%" Bath Party!
"%i%" Rules
"%i%" Cape and Hat
"%i%" Beauty
"%i%" Baby Dragons
"%i%" Her Time
"%i%" Happy Birthday
"%i%" Daring Dash
"%i%" Family?
"%i%" The Look
"%i%" 382 Only the Best
"%i%" Only One
"%i%" Sleep Well, Little One
"%i%" By Her Side
"%i%" Take the Cake
"%i%" Crystal Sunrise
"%i%" Can I See Him?
"%i%" Interview with Pinkie
"%i%" A Lesson of Magic
"%i%" Nightmare Moon
"%i%" The Tree
"%i%" Cup of the Day
"%i%" Tears
"%i%" Lost
"%i%" End of an Era
"%i%" Precious
"%i%" The Hardest Part
"%i%" Four Words
"%i%" Old Mother
"%i%" Confession
"%i%" Twilight's Mother
"%i%" Moving Up
"%i%" Her Biggest Fan

"%i%" Eternity's End

"3" Eternity's End

Twilight Sparkle stood in the secluded spot. Many years had passed since it had begun, and she was one of the only three people who still knew about it. She was certain she was the only one who still visited. She sat in the middle of the six stones, allowing the grief she always felt when coming here to wash over her.

Rain or shine, she would come and spend the day here every year. This day of the year would be special to Twilight forever. She would always remember the day she had made her first true friends. She would always remember the day her mentor had started her down the road to becoming a Princess. Sometimes, the memory was cherished, a treasure that kept Twilight going during her dark hours.

Other days, she wished she had never started down that road. She wished she could had simply stayed a unicorn forever.

No, not forever. Until she died. She lifted her head, her gaze staying on each dark grey stone, taking in the features as if afraid of ever forgetting. Though she had long ago memorized the words etched into the stones, she read them aloud.

Her voice was hoarse, barely above a whisper. "Rainbow Dash, Brave 'til the end." That was all it said. She remembered the outrage she and the others had felt when that was all the engravers had written. None of what they wanted had made it onto the stone.

Rainbow had been so much more. Loyal to a fault. Twilight let out laugh, even as a tear rolled down her cheek. "You were too good for the Wonderbolts, Dashie. They didn't deserve you." Twilight still remembered the last Wonderbolts show she had actually watched. Rainbow Dash was performing her signature Rainboom, when something went wrong.

"And here comes the Rainboom!" the announcer yelled as Dash began her decent. Twilight watched with a grin. Her friend was still the only pony alive to have accomplished a Rainboom. Dash was nearly at the breaking point when she was suddenly flung backwards.

Twilight jumped to her hooves, her mind racing. Seeing Dash heading straight for the box she was in, she tried undoing the barriers around it. She was too late. Dash hit the barriers—

And broke through them. She landed just inside. Twilight rushed to her side, feeling for breath. A small sigh escaped her as she felt a small puff of air leave the blue snout. The medics made it to her just seconds later, rushing her to the hospital. Dash was gone before arriving.

Twilight moved to the next grave. "Applejack Apple, Always there." As with Rainbow, Applejack's gravestone didn't say nearly anything Twilight wished it said. Twilight hadn't been there when Applejack had gone—she had been found leaning against a tree in her orchard, her hat pulled down over her eyes as if she were taking a nap. "I should have been there to help. I'm sorry."

"Fluttershy, Gentlest of ponies." Twilight sighed. "Oh Fluttershy." Twilight closed her eyes for a moment. Though Fluttershy had been afraid of the Everfree, one of her animals had been injured and she went looking for it. The stare didn't work on Timberwolves as it did on regular animals. A chill went down her back as she remembered staring at the closed casket.

The next headstone was Rarity's. Twilight stared at it for a moment. "Rarity, the bringer of beauty." She didn't remember who had decided to put that. Probably Sweetie Belle. It was true, though. Even as an older mare, Rarity was beautiful. Though her physical beauty paled in comparison of her spirit. Twilight still wished she had been in Rarity's Canterlot shop that day. She knew the story well enough, though. Pinkie had been there, offering treats.

Rarity watched as a unicorn father and foal walked into her shop near closing time. She glanced at the schedule she had, then looked up with a smile. "Ah, hello. You must be Arcus and Dolly?" The pair nodded. "If you will come with me, there is still one other family here, I'm afraid. You don't mind being in the same room." She led the way to the back, where several foal-sized winter items were laid out. "I only ask that you take no more than one coat, and two of the others."

The stallion tensed as he saw the other stallion who was with his son. Rarity noticed the look the two shared, a sinking feeling in her stomach. "Oh, look daddy, this one is cool." Dolly held up a dark colored hat with a hole for her horn to go through.

The young colt ran over. "I want that one!" he said, snatching it off the filly's head with his magic.

Arcus stepped forward. "Dolly had that first, you'll give it back." Not waiting for the foal to move, he jerked the garment away.

"If my son wants that one, he'll have that one."

The two stallions began a tug of war with the head covering. "Excuse me." Rarity tried to stop them, but they ignored her. She stepped closer, her brow furrowing. "I would like for you not to be rough with these, they are quite expensive." She jumped away as a hoof narrowly missed her. Arcus hit the other stallion on the neck.

The stallion retaliated. Rarity watched in horror as the stallions landed punch after punch on each other. Finally, they separated, both glaring at each other.

Pinkie was hold both foals, who were shaking with fear. Rarity stepped forward to ask the stallions to leave the shop, but was hit with a blast from Arcus.

Twilight turned to Pinkie's stone, blinking away tears. She gently traced the engraved letters. "Pinkie Pie, Smile." She had chosen that one. The twins hadn't been happy about it, but it described Pinkie perfectly. "You are still my very best friend, Pinkie." She leaned her forehead against the cool of the stone. She didn't cry. Her eyes simply fluttered shut as she sat silently, just remembering. "Oh, Pinkie, how I wish you were here." She sighed again and raised her head. Pressing her hoof against the engraved name, she almost smiled.

Pinkie Pie hadn't changed with age. Some of that may have been the youth spells she allowed Twilight to cast, but those didn't affect anything but her physical appearance. Still, she hadn't been hopping anywhere lately. She and Twilight were in Canterlot Castle, having lunch.

"What have you been doing lately?" Twilight asked. Even if lately meant since their last lunch together a few days ago, Twilight was interested. By now, she had learned to love every second she spent with her friends.

"I've been thinking," she said. She sat her tea cup down and looked at Twilight. Her normally smiling face took on a serious expression. "I think it's time for me to go."

"But you just got here. We haven't even had dessert yet!" Twilight laughed. Dessert would always be Pinkie's favorite part.

A sad smile graced Pinkie's lips. "No Twilight. Not from the castle. From Equestria. From our pleasant little Equis planet."

Twilight visibly paled. "P-Pinkie, no. Don't be s-silly."

Pinkie looked down. "I love you, Twilight. You've been my best friend for so long. That's why I haven't left yet. But I can't live forever. Nopony can. Well, except Princesses." She looked into Twilight's eyes. "I don't want to leave you, Twilight. It is time, though. Just…smile for me, okay? Know that you are my favorite Princess."

Twilight was fighting tears now. Her voice was shaky as she spoke. "No one can chose, Pinkie. It doesn't work like that."

Pinkie gave a small laugh. "We both know I'm not a normal pony. I've always been weird. Different."

"Pinkie…"

Twilight welcomed the tight embrace Pinkie gave her. They stayed like that for several moments, Pinkie comforting Twilight. "It'll be alright. I Pinkie Promise. Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye," Pinkie whispered into Twilight's ear.

They pulled away, Twilight wiping tears from her eyes even through the faint smile.

"Please, Twilight?"

Twilight looked at Pinkie, taking in her mane, her fur, her cutie mark, her face. "Okay."

The rest of the day was spent with the two simply being together. The next day, Pinkie was found still snuggled in her bed, a smile on her face.

Twilight sniffed again. She tore herself away from Pinkie's grave to the view the last one. Everypony knew dragons lived thousands of years. She hadn't planned on giving Spike up for a few centuries.

Only, dragons didn't live that long. Five hundred was average for a dragon. Spike had only been three hundred. He had grown big. He had been sent on a trip, to try to talk to the other dragons. His mission was to see if dragon kind was interested in forming an alliance with ponies.

All they received back was a single scale. Since then, several different dragon tribes had came forward and allied themselves with Equestria. Twilight avoided all of those meetings.

"You'll always be my favorite little guy, Spike." She leaned down and kissed the headstone. A tear rolled off her muzzle and hit it, darkening it in spots.

She moved away, her gaze again traveling the circle. Finally, she curled up into a small ball and closed her eyes. At least she would spend the night with her friends.

Youtube Video

"%i%" Chocolate Cosmos

"4" Chocolate Cosmos

Roses. The earth pony was sick of roses. For the last two weeks, she had been flooded with orders for roses. She knew the culprit, of course. Hearts and Hooves day. She hated the holiday. Stallions would rush in, handing over whatever bits were owed and rush out to find their mare. It was the same every year. She was sick of the holiday and all the happy couples.

Oh, Roseluck, stop being so cynical. Stallions noticed her, she knew. She would notice when she was shopping or took a day off. It was just that none ever approached her. Besides, it wouldn't matter if they did; Roseluck had her heart set on one particular stallion.

It didn't help that every single mare in Ponyville wanted this stallion as well. Big Macintosh was just so rugged. Not being seen off the farm he ran with his sister helped in the allure as well. Shaking her head, Roseluck sighed. It seemed this year he had found a special somepony, because he had ordered flowers. At least they aren't roses. He had ordered a bouquet of blue daisies.

The bell above the door chimed, Roseluck looking up expecting to see Big Mac. Her smile slipped a little as she saw Time Turner. "I almost forgot to pick up Derpy's flowers." He let out a nervous chuckle as Roseluck smiled. She turned and found the bouquet of sunflowers, trading Time Turner for bits. "Thanks Roseluck. Happy Hearts and Hooves!" he called as he walked out the door.

The day progressed in much the same way, slowing as evening approached and everypony began their dates. It was nearly time for Roseluck to close shop when she noticed a few orders had not been picked up.

"Noteworthy...roses. Oh, but he and Rainbow broke up, so he probably won't come for them...and Big Mac?" The only order of blue daisies were still behind the counter. She picked them up, examining them. "I'll just take them to him, I suppose."

She walked through the shop, watering the flowers and making sure everything was put away for the day. She put the two orders of flowers that hadn't been picked up in her saddlebags and walked out of the shop. She was just locking up when she heard loud hoofsteps approaching.

"Rose...Roseluck!" She turned, startled to see Big Mac standing in front of her. "Ah'm sorry Ah'm late. Can Ah still get my flowers?" He reached into a saddlebag and drew out a bit pouch.

"Of course, Big Mac, I was just bringing them to you." She handed him the flowers as he sighed in relief. Taking the bits, she smiled at him. "Big date tonight?"

"Nope."

Roseluck furrowed her brow in confusion. "Then who are the flowers for?"

Big Mac smiled. "Ah very special somepony."

"I don't understand...and it's none of my business. Sorry." Roseluck blushed as Big Mac chuckled.

"They're for Apple Bloom. Ah'm taking her to dinner tonight. She's very excited." Big Mac nodded toward a little filly coming toward them. He smiled as the little filly bounced up to the pair.

"Hi Roseluck. Hi Mac. Oh, are those for me?" Apple Bloom grinned, eyeing the flowers. "Those are my favorite! I bet you knew that though."

"Eeyup." Big Mac reached the flowers to his little sister. He tipped his head to Roseluck as he and the little filly walked down the road.

Roseluck smiled as she watched them walk away. She could hear Apple Bloom chattering away to the colt, obviously excited. Couples seemed to be all over Ponyville as she walked home by herself. Laughing, kissing, giggles...and yet, no single stallion in sight.

She turned right onto her street, walking up the dirt path to her door. Tomorrow would be business as usual. There wouldn't be nearly as many ponies in her shop, she would have time to restock on the flowers she had sold out of, and maybe she would take the afternoon off and just walk around the town.

Her head was hanging down, so she didn't notice the flowers at first. But she he looked up to open her door, there they were. A deep brown, nearly looking like a wreath, sitting in the mailbox next to her door.

Gingerly, she pulled them out. Chocolate Cosmos were extremely rare flowers, but they were her favorites. She closed her eyes, breathing in the sweet scent of the flower. Her lips curved into a smile as she looked for a note. Surely, these weren't for her.

When it was apparent a note wasn't attached to the flowers, she looked in the mailbox. A single letter was there, which she picked up and took inside. She bruised herself with finding a vase and water for the flowers, setting them on the coffee table before sitting on the couch.

She held the letter in her hooves. On the front of the envelope, in a neat script, was her name. She traced the letters, trying to remember if she had ever seen the writing before. She turned the envelope over and carefully opened it, gently pulling the letter out.

Dearest Roseluck,

I heard you say these were your favorite flowers in the market one day. I hope they bring that beautiful smile to your face. There is so much I want to tell you in this letter, but that would be better left in person. Soon, I shall tell you how I feel. And then we shall take it from there, one step at a time.

Roseluck read the letter three times before turning it over. He hadn't signed it. She looked at the flowers on the table, trying to remember when she had mentioned them being her favorite, and to whom, but nothing came to mind.

She read the letter again with a sigh. It was much too elegant for Big Mac to have written, but she didn't know who it could be from. Still, maybe her love life wasn't as hopeless as she thought. Humming and smiling to herself, Roseluck made her way to her kitchen. She opened a bottle of Merlot, pouring herself a glass, and picked up a few chocolates before settling back onto the couch. Even if it wasn't Big Mac, somepony was interested.

Looking at the flowers, she grinned. Maybe Hearts and Hooves day wasn't so bad after all.

"%i%" Discord

"6" Discord

Celestia sighed as she looked up at the statue. She didn't visit often, but today she had felt drawn. She placed a hoof against the paw and closed her eyes. He hadn't always deserved to be cast into stone. He had been good, once.

Discord lay on the blanket next to Celesita. Her pink mane spread out around her head as she gazed into the sun. "It is beautiful, you know," his voice sounded from beside her. She turned, gracing him with a smile. He reached out with his claw like hand, gently stroking her face. "You and your sister create such beautiful pictures."

"Mayhaps. You know we do not truly control the heavens. Everypony does." She closed her eyes, basking in the warmth radiating down.

"I know that is what you have said. And yet, your cutie mark is the sun itself." Discord chuckled as the placed his mismatched arms behind his head.

Celestia sat up. "Oh you. I've explained it all before. Imagine, a single pony forever having to drag and control such large things across the sky. No, we simply keep watch. Ensure nothing goes wrong."

"Oh, my Celly, you are easy to tease." He sat up as well. Taking her hoof in his paw, he grinned. "You know what it is I meant, darling."

"I do. And it was a lovely compliment. Thank you."

Discord leaned in slowly, pressing his lips to hers. After a moment, the couple broke apart. "You know," he whispered, "I'll always be yours."

Celestia grinned. "I can only hope."

Blinking in the brightness of the sun, Celestia opened her eyes. "Oh darling, where did we go wrong." She sat, just looking at the statue. She look in the features, though she knew them like the underside of her hoof.

Hoofsteps sounded behind her. Turning to look, she saw Luna. Any defenses she had prepared fell away as her sister wordlessly wrapped her in a strong hug. "Celly, tell us why it is you visit this creature. Surely, you do not still feel for him as you once did."

Celesita's gaze was cast to the ground. "Lulu, how did he escape? He shouldn't have been able to leave for thousands more years. Perhaps I unleashed him, unknowingly."

Luna pressed her lips together. She and Celestia looked at each other for a few moments before Luna shook her head."I cannot say, sister. Had he not…" Luna trailed off, shaking her head again. "We've all made mistakes and paid our prices. This is simply his."

"Do you think he has paid his dues?"

"He did turn Equestria about when he was last freed. I do not believe the Bearers would like to see him again."

Celestia nodded, her eyes once again on the statue. "But say, he wasn't like that. Say he was who he was once more.

"Then…yes. We all deserve a second chance." With that, Luna left Celestia to her thoughts.

"My sister! How could you turn her against me! How could you turn against me?"

"Celly, darling, I'm not against you. I'm simply…looking out for my personal interest."

Celestia took a deep breath, ignoring the tears falling down her face. "You have torn apart my family. My own sister looked to cover Equestria in night. How could you have…why?"

"Are they not great feats! Ponies will come to love the new Equestira!" Discord laughed. "Of course, with your sister gone, and my dealings with the Crystal Empire, Equestira has already changed, hasn't it, love?"

Celestia swallowed. "Discord."

"hmm?" He looked over at Celesita, with only enough time to adopt a shocked expression before he was blasted. He tried to move, to run away, but nothing worked.

Suddenly, Celestia was standing over him, tears streaming down her face. "I'm sorry. I cannot allow this to go unpunished. I…am sorry." She leaned down, gingerly kissing the dark grey stone that used to be his cheek. "I'm sorry."

"I'm sorry." Celestia stroked the cheek. "I am so sorry, my darling." She turned and walked away, never glancing back.

Walking into the castle, she saw Luna. She sat next to her sister. "Maybe it is time to give him a second chance. I believe in his goodness."

"%i%"Useless

"7"Useless

She knew it was useless. It didn't matter. After all, who really needed a cutie mark in party throwing. No pony took her seriously or thought she knew anything. Even her friends laughed at most everything she said. She looked in the mirror, examining her cutie mark.

Maybe it isn't as useful as Twilights or as cool as Dashie's, but it's still my cutie mark. I can't help that. It chose me, not the other way around.

Pinkie frowned at her reflection. It was a useless mark for her to have. What good did it do? Throwing parties that no pony wanted in the first place wasn't a great skill. It was just an annoyance. That's all she was. Annoying.

Random. Pinkie's brow furrowed at that thought. Dashie was always calling her random. Was that a good thing? She's just being Pinkie Pie. Maybe Twilight didn't mean that in an endearing way. Maybe Twilight meant everyone should ignore her because she was being stupid.

No, stop it. Your friends love you. She glared at her reflection. You've been through this. Your friends want you happy. So what if Fluttershy yelled at you and called you mean things. That doesn't matter.

Pinkie squeezed her eyes closed to keep the burning at bay. "I will not cry," she whispered to herself. "Fluttershy didn't mean it."

The tears didn't care what she said or did as they dripped down her cheeks. She looked back into the mirror. Why? Why can't I be more like Twilight or or or just somepony else. She slumped down to the floor, covering her face with her hooves. "Why," she whispered.

She pressed her hooves to her eyes to try to stop the flow of tears. Go on Pinkie, you've realized just how useless you are. Got a party for that? She didn't know how long she lay on the floor. It could have been minutes or hours before the hoofsteps pricked her ears.

Her bedroom door swung open. Mrs. Cake stood in the doorway, her forehead wrinkled with concern. "Pinkie? Sweetie?"

Pinkie watched through the mirror as Mrs. Cake entered the room and walked over to her. She had to squeeze her eyes to fight the tears again as Mrs. Cake began stroking her mane. "What's wrong?" Pinkie shook her head, turning away from Mrs. Cake. "Please talk to me."

Pinkie sighed and sat up. She couldn't bring her eyes to meet the worry in the eyes of Mrs. Cake, so she looked at her hooves. "I just realized some things about myself." Her throat was raw from crying, making her voice low and raspy. "I'm not a very useful pony, am I?

"What?" Mrs. Cake asked, her eyes widening. "Of course you are dear. You help Carrot and I herein the shop, you're always there when somepony needs you, and you know exactly how to put a smile on anypony's face." Mrs. Cake smiled, placing a hoof under Pinkie's chin so she would look up and see. "You are a very special pony, Pinkie Pie."

Pinkie's lips twitched before she shook her head and looked down again. "I just throw parties. It's such a useless talent to have."

"Pinkamena Diane Pie." Pinkie's head snapped up, looking Mrs. Cake in the eye. Her full name in that tone was only used when she was in trouble."In all my years…When we found you as a young filly of eight, do you think we once thought 'Oh, she's going to be such a useless mare?"

"Of course not, but—"

"And do you think that when we asked you to work for us at the bakery, we thought you wouldn't do good?"

"No, but—"

"Then why would you think you are useless?"

Pinkie swallowed. "I just…am."

"Pinkie." Mrs. Cake sighed, brushing a stray bit of mane from Pinkie's face. "Listen to me. If it wasn't for you, the town would have been taken over by parasprites. If it wasn't for you, Twilight Sparkle may have never stayed in Ponyville. If it weren't for you…" Mrs. Cake smiled, wrapping her hooves around Pinkie. "I would have not had a daughter."

Pinkie looked up at Mrs. Cake, who was smiling at her. Her eyes filled with tears again, but this time Pinkie didn't try to stop it. She pressed her face into Mrs. Cake's coat. "I love you, Pinkie."

"I love you, too," Pinkie said.

Slowly, a grin spread across her face.

"%i%" Shopping

"8" Shopping

Rarity followed her mother through the clothing store. She adored the mannequins all around the store. Fashion was her passion, as her saddlebags proudly proclaimed. She inspected the clothes displayed with a scrutinizing eye. After all, she needed something other than the single fashion magazine her parents allowed her for inspiration for her fabulous designs.

The outfit on one mannequin stood out. It shimmered in the stores bright lighting. Slowly, almost as if it would run away if she were too hasty, she approached. The color combinations was simple, the fabric common. Those weren't what attracted her to the dress.

It was the shine that came from the thin material that covered most of the dress. It wasn't glitter or sequins, but it wasn't as extravagant as gems either. Her hoof shook as she reached out and touched it. "You are gorgeous," she whispered. Raising her voice to a normal level, she turned to where her mother was. "Will you buy this for…me?"

Rarity blinked. Her mother had been there, just across the aisle. She wouldn't have simply left, would she? "Mother?" Her eyes darted from place to place, but she didn't see the purple of her mother's mane anywhere. "M-mom?"

She took a deep, calming breath. She was nine, she was able to walk calmly around a store by herself and find her mother. It wouldn't be that hard. She could do this. Smiling, she turned and knocked into something.

Before she could say she was sorry, it felt as if somepony were grabbing her around the middle. She yelped and ran, not paying attention to where it was she was going. Her voice was caught in her throat as she pounded away from whatever it was that touched her. She looked around wildly, her panic rising every second her mother wasn't in sight.

She rounded a corner full speed and

"—Oof."

Sitting up, she noticed a small purple filly doing the same.

"Oh, I am so sorry," Rarity said. "I wasn't looking where I was going you see and…"The filly was studying her intently. "Are you okay, dear?"

She nodded. "Oh no," she whispered suddenly. She jumped to her hooves and looked around her before a grin spread across her face. She walked a couple feet away, to where a book was laying.

Curious, Rarity followed. Magic: For the Intermediate Foal. "Oh, are you in third grade as well?"

"No," she said softly. "This is my brother's book. Mom and dad won't let me start school yet. They say I can try for CSGU in the fall though."

"CSU? As in Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns? You have to start there in kindergarten, or you aren't getting in." Rarity paused, looking the foal over. She was very small. "H-How old are you?"

"Five."

Rarity blinked. "Ah. I see. This is what you have to study to get into that school, then?"

"Oh, no. Not at all. We just need basic magic to get in, really." Smiling mischievously, the purple foal leaned in and whispered, "I'm not actually supposed to have this. Shiny would be in so much trouble if mom and dad knew. But my foal sitter doesn't mind so long as she can come here and shop." She sat back. "It is all very interesting, don't you think?"

"It's…something, alright," Rarity said. "You just…reading it for fun?"

"Twilight!" somepony called, galloping up to them. "I told you not to wonder off like that. Come on, Cadance is ready to leave and we can go get some pizza."

"And cupcakes?" she asked, grinning up at the older colt.

He nodded. "Yes, and cupcakes. Now come on." He turned and started walking away, Twilight at his side. Rarity watched as they walked to the corner.

Suddenly, Twilight stopped and turned back around. "Bye." With a smile she waved before turning and running the few paces to catch up with her brother.

Rarity smiled as she stood, just about to begin her search for her mother again. Before she could take a step, however, her name came from behind her. "Rarity, there you are. You really need to tell me before you go off somewhere, sweetie. I'm ready to go now. Did you have fun?"

"Yes. I…I think I made a friend."

Rarity smiled.

"%i%" Yes

"9" You Mean Prince Solaris

She wasn't sure what had happened. That spell was meant as a surprise for Pinkie, but now she wasn't sure it was such a good idea.

For one, Twilight Sparkle was still firmly a mare. She had checked. Twice. Now she wasn't sure what the spell had actually accomplished. She looked around the room. There was Spike in his basket, her books laying about from researching the spell and...

"A suit? Why do I have a suit? Where's my dress?"

Twilight picked the object in question up, levitating it across the room and into her hooves. She looked for a label. Maybe she could figure out what was happening if she knew where the suit came from...

Her eyes widened as they saw the delicate three diamond pattern Rarity always sewed into her creations. She didn't remember telling Rarity she might need a suit for her date with Pinkie. In fact, she hadn't told Rarity her plans for the temporary gender-switch at all.

Glancing at a clock on her nightstand, she sighed. Just one hour to go before her date with Pinkie. "So much for a super duper one year surprise," she mumbled. She knew Pinkie would have something she would love, and she would have nothing for Pinkie.

Sighing, Twilight stood. If nothing else, she would dress for the date and stop by Rarity's to see why the suit had suddenly appeared. She walked to the small closet and opened the door. "Oh my..." It was full of suits. None of her dresses were anywhere, though one did look suspiciously like her Gala dress. "What in Equestria...Spike?"

She looked over to the sleeping dragon and shook her head. At least he was still the same. She walked over and nuzzled him gently on the stomach. "Aww, Dusk, five more minutes, please?" a female voice replied.

Twilight jumped back, barely suppressing a scream. "Who are you?" she demanded. "What have you done with Spike...and my clothes?"

The dragon sat up. "Where's Dusk?"

The two glared at each other for a moment before the dragon began laughing. "Oh...I get it. You're spell worked. Bubble will be happy with it. You even fooled me there for a second, I really thought you were a mare. That spell is really impressive."

"What?"

"The spell. To change you into a mare for a day."

"Umm...What?"

The dragon put a claw to her head. "I didn't think it would make you stupid, Dusk. Goddess. Look in the mirror. You used to be a stallion. Now you're a mare. Cuter as a stallion, though. Oh, you need to go to Elusive's shop. I know you said not to, but I told him you might want a dress. He was pretty excited to make it. I didn't say why though!" she added hurriedly.

Twilight squeezed her eyes shut and shook her head roughly, but the female dragon was still there when she stopped. "Fine. If I'm supposed to be this Dusk, then I bet Rarity is Elusive..." she muttered to herself. "I'll be back soon, Spike," Twilight called as she left the bedroom.

"Umm...you mean Spines, right?" the dragon called back.

Why did the spell change everyone and everything but me? Twilight thought. But...Spike or Spines...thought I was supposed to be a stallion. That can't be right. Can it?

Twilight walked through Ponyville in amazement. There was Carrot Top, but as a stallion. And Time Turner, but as a mare. It was so familiar, but so different. This isn't right.

By the time she finally made it to Rarity's shop her head was hurting. She didn't know what any of these ponies could be called, and they were all looking at her strangely. She knocked on the door, which flew open before the second knock.

"Dusk, finally. You only have thirty minutes before the big night. You are cutting it close." A stallion jerked her inside. "Mmm. You make a great mare, I do say."

Twilight shifted uncomfortably. "Th-thanks," she stammered out.

"Oh, and such a lovely voice. Now hold on, I have the dress for you. I hope you aren't too upset at my little Spinesy, I did coax it out of her with gems."

"Yes...well, I do have a question...Elusive."

"Ask away darling," he replied. "I'll help you put this on, since--"

"I've got it," Twilight replied, taking the dress in her magical grasp. She pulled the dress on with easy before turning to smile at Elusive. "You see--"

"How...you...Have you been practicing? Dresses are very hard to put on..."

Well, I've been wearing dresses my whole life. "No, I just needed to ask you a question. Do you feel...different. See, I wrote to the Princess and--"

"The...princess? Why on earth would you write to that...to that..."

Twilight's mouth fell open in amazement. "Do you talk about Princess Celestia like that. She--"

"Wait." Elusive's brow crinkled in confusion. "Who's Celestia? I thought you meant Princess Bluebell, the snobby..."he muttered a few words Twilight couldn't make out after that.

"Princess Celestia, the ruler of Equestria..."

"You mean Prince Solaris?"

"Oh no, I've turned her into a stallion to, haven't I? Oh this is bad...this is so bad. Rarity, what am I going to do?"

"Who's Rarity?"

Twilight blinked at the stallion and shook her head before running out the door and to the library. Her hooves barely touched the stairs as she made it to her private quarters. "Hey umm...mare." Twilight looked up at the dragon, who was now sitting on her bed and holding one of the research books. "I think you got two spells mixed up."

Twilight walked over to the bed and looked at where Spines was pointing. "See, this one turns you into a mare...I bet you were going for a stallion though, huh? And this one let's you trade places with one in a different parallel universe, provided the spells are cast at the same time...so...just cast it again? I bet Dusk is talking to...whoever helps you over there."

Twilight sighed with relief. "Thank you," she said, grabbing Spines into a hug. "Now, just to get home..." She lit her horn and built up the needed magic before concentrating on the spell. "Goodbye, Spines," she said as she released the built up magic.

--time--

Twilight blinked. Then she blinked again. A familiar face was staring at her. "Uhh, Twilight? Is that you?"

"Spike!" she cried. "I'm so happy to see you."

She wrapped him in a bone-crushing hug. "Hehe...I'm happy to see you too, Twilight. That Dusk guy was weird. But Pinkie's going to be here soon..."

Twilight sighed. She still hadn't gotten Pinkie anything...and she was never trying that spell again. "Oh Spike, what am I going to do? Pinkie needs a present and this one failed and..."

A giggled came from the doorway. "I don't need a present, silly." Pinkie walked over and wrapped her hooves around Twilight, leaning close. "I have everything I need in my hooves right now."

Twilight closed the small gap between them, pressing her lips to Pinkie's. "Happy One Year, Pinkie."

"Happy One Year, Twi."

Pulling Pinkie closer, Twilight took a deep breath. Pinkie didn't want a stallion, she wanted Twilight just the way she was.

Giggling, Pinkie pulled away from Twilight. "And just so you know, I really don't like you as a stallion. You're much cuter as a mare." Twilight blushed.

Pinkie pressed her lips to Twilights again. The both closed their eyes, simply enjoying the moment.

"%i%" Evening Routine

"11" The Hardest Part

I sigh as I stand, placing my book on the table and moving toward the door. I know who it is. I know it is her. The quiet, hesitant knocks, nearly like Fluttershy's but not quite. That is how she knocks. Now, anyway. I remember when she would knock enthusiastically until I opened the door. I remember when she didn't knock; when she would simply walk in without a care in the world.

Maybe she cared more than I noticed at the time. Closing my eyes, I take a deep breath before opening the door. Her blue eyes find mine immediately, still rimmed red from crying. I open my mouth to speak but I can't get any words past the lump in my throat.

Instead, I wait. I look at her expectantly. Barely stopping myself from tapping my hoof, I raise my eyebrows. She opens her mouth a few times, as if to say something, before shaking her head. She turns pulled something out of her saddlebags.

A book. Narrowing my eyes on the object, I glance up at her. The silent questions pass between us. She sits the book down and scoots it across the threshold of the library with a hoof, making sure she never actually crosses the line into the building.

Pinkie's Diary: Do NOT Read

I look back up, my questions written across my face. She licks her lips and shakes her head. Her eyes fill with tears again as she looks down. Slowly, I levitate the diary and open the cover. A sheet of paper that obviously doesn't belong in the diary falls out. READ FIRST is written in large letters.

I look at the letter and the diary before glancing at Pinkie. Her brow is crinkled in worry, but she nods, urging me to go on. I look back at the letter before looking at her again. I know what this is about. I know she regrets what she did. I know everything. We had talked about it until I didn't want to talk about it anymore. She thought giving me these things, leaving small surprises on my doorstep each day would make me forgive her.

I had thought she would get the hint the first time I teleported the muffin back. The next day I had found an entire batch of cookies. This was the first time I had ever had her on my doorstep when I opened the door.

I just didn't think I could forgive her. I close my eyes as I feel the burning tears threaten. I had cried enough over this. A total breach of trust couldn't be covered with a simple apology. She had to know that. I start to shake my head and give her the book and letter back, but then I meet her eyes.

The tear tracks are the first thing I notice, fresh from the last time I had looked. She is standing perfectly still, her straight mane and tail slightly moving in the wind. I see the small rise and fall of her chest, uneven breaths from trying not to openly cry in front of me.

Her mouth is pressed together, as if she doesn't trust herself to speak. Her ears are pressed flat from worry. Her eyes, though. I can tell this is killing her, like it's killed me. She doesn't flinch. She doesn't blink. She just looks as me, as if my decision is the final bit to tip the scales.

Placing the diary and letter beside me, I step forward. Just one hoof. And then another. I never take my eyes off her. I want to scream, I want to fight, but we've done enough of that. Stopping just short of the line that separates the inside from the outside, I look straight into her eyes.

Then reaching over the line, I pull her into a hug. I feel her tense at first, but then her hooves wrap around me. Pressing her face into my neck, she releases the river of emotion. I find myself crying too, as I hold her close. I feel her frantically beating heart, I hear her sobbing laughter, I smell the sweet scent that is always around her.

Slowly, I pull from the embrace. She gives me a small smile. There is more for us to talk about. But for now, the hard part is over.

For now, all is well.

A/N: Ugh, that ugly yellow box just annoys me, sorry. I think I'm going to stop using it. At any rate, let me know what you think!

"%i%" Bath Party!

"12" Evening Routine

An ear-piercing squeal filled Cup Cake's ears as her daughter galloped from the room as quickly as her short legs could carry her. Cup waited until Pumpkin had made it halfway up the stairs before giving chase. The filly squealed again when she heard her mother's hoofsteps.

Cup saw Pumpkin turn right and chuckled. Normally, Pumpkin would head for Pinkie's room for refuge, but today it seemed she thought Pound or Carrot could help. The filly stopped in front of her parents closed door, looking at it with wide eyes. She turned to see her mother right beside of her.

Gathering Pumpkin in her hooves, Cup hugged her tightly. "Now, now, you know you have to take a bath." Cup blew on Pumpkin's stomach, causing the filly to giggle.

"Baf!" Pumpkin exclaimed with another giggle.

Cup put Pumpkin on her back and walked the short way to the bathroom, where a warm tub of water was already waiting. Cup poked a hoof into the shallow water, checking to make sure it wasn't overly warm before putting her daughter down.

"Guess what, Pumpkin?"

The filly looked up at her mother, her eyes shining with excitement. "Wha?"

"I found Ducky!" Cup pulled out a faded yellow rubber duck, grinning at her daughter's delighted squeal. While Pumpkin played with her favorite bath toy, Cup set about washing her. She took care when washing the squirming filly's face so she wouldn't get soap in her eyes. No tears or not, the stuff still stung.

Once the bath was done, Cup wrapped Pumpkin in a towel and carried her to the room she shared with Pound. Her brother was already fast asleep in is bed, having been put down by Carrot not long before. Pumpkin smiled at Cake, even as she fought to keep her eyes open. Cup hummed a lullaby as she rocked the filly.

When Pumpkin's eyes didn't open again, Cup placed her in the bed. "Goodnight, sweetheart." She placed a kiss on the filly's forehead. She stood for a moment, simply listening to the soft breath of both of her children before turning out the light. As she walked out the door, she couldn't help but stop and smile at them.

"Did you and Pumpkin have a good time?" Carrot asked from behind her, causing her to jump slightly.

She leaned against her husband as they looked into the darkened room. "Of course."

With a contented sight, they turned and headed for their own bedroom.

"%i%" Rules

"13" Bath Party!

Pinkie looked up through the water at her prey. It wasn't prepared, not in the least. In place of a giggle, which would have been hard underwater, she settled for a smile. Now all she need was…there! The prey turned its back. Pinkie launched out of the water and shouted "Surprise!"

Rarity jumped and turned so quickly water sloshed out of the tub. "Pinkie?" she gasped. "What…how…"

Pinkie giggled. "That's not how you make sentences, silly. That's okay. Ponies seem to forget that sometimes. And I really wanted to surprise you for your birthday, so I hid in here. And I thought maybe we could have a bath party!"

Rarity's eye twitched. "B-bath party?" Her eye twitched again. "And my birthday isn't for another week, dear." It twitched a third time. "And grown ponies don't exactly bathe together."

"I dunno, Mr. and Mrs. Cake have bath parties all the time. They never let me join, though." A frown crossed Pinkie's face for an instant before she perked up. "So I thought that maybe one of my bestest friends would like one, and you're the only one taking a bath right now."

Sliding a hoof down her face to keep her eye from twitching anymore, Rarity breathed out slowly. "Pinkie, dear, I don't think…" The wide grin and innocent expression on the other mare's face caused Rarity to sigh. "What I mean to say is, this shall be a lovely party. Just the two of us, right?"

"Right," Pinkie said with a nod. "Oh, look, I even have cute party hats!" Pinkie pulled out two hats and promptly pulled the purple one onto Rarity's head. "See, that one has your cutie mark on it! Mine has hearts, because…well, I just like it."

Rarity silently thanked whoever was listening that she had replaced the small tub with one large enough to relax in. As she and Pinkie both stretched their bodies out so that only their heads were showing, Rarity smiled. "So, what does one do at a bath party? I'm afraid I've never attended one before."

Pinkie tapped her hoof to her chin and hmmed. "I don't know. The Cakes—"

"Ah, well, perhaps we could make our own rules, then?" Rarity smiled mischievously.

Just as Pinkie opened her mouth to say yes, a large splash of water hit her in the face. She spluttered for a moment, looking at Rarity with a shocked expression, before a grin spread across her face. Using both hooves, she caused a surge of bubbles and water to completely engulf Rarity. A good amount of water made it out of the tub, but neither she nor Rarity seemed to care about that.

Rubbing the suds out of her eyes, Rarity leveled her gaze on Pinkie. "Oh, it is on."

After being forced to admit a tie and cleaning up the water-logged bathroom, Pinkie had returned to Sugar Cube Corner. As she walked through the door to the kitchen, the Cakes, who were sitting at the table, looked up at her. "We were wondering where you'd gotten to, dear," Mrs. Cake said.

"Oh, Rarity and I had a bath party."

Mr. Cake spit out the coffee he was drinking, coughing up what had gone down the wrong way. Still, he managed to get out a croaked, "What?"

"Yeah. You and Mrs. Cake never let me join yours, so I had one with Rarity. It was really fun, and really wet. I mean, when she—

"You know, Pinkie," Mrs. Cake said, her blush showing through her blue coat, "you really don't have to share everything with us."

"Okey Dokey Lokey," she said as she hopped up the stairs to her room.

"Do you think they…" Mr. Cake asked.

"I don't know, honey bun, and I don't intend to ever find out."

"%i%" Cape and Hat

"15" Four Words

I had tried.

I really had.

I didn’t mean for it to happen.

It had.

But I couldn’t stop it.

It had happened so fast. It was dark.A fierce wind was blowing. He had gone out to save something from getting blown away. I don’t even remember what it was anymore. I do remember that to was important to him.

The wind had blown it out of his grasp. He had ran for it.

He was just a baby dragon. Only eleven years old. Still a foal, even to ponies. He didn’t think to look out for falling objects. He didn’t realize this storm was mingling with one from the Everfree. He just wanted his thing.

I think it was a hat. He had left it outside and was running after it. And the winds were powerful. Rainbow said they had reached over 100mph during the storm.

Spike just wanted his hat. So he went to get it. And a branch that had been blown off a tree flew through the air, tumbling straight for him.

I saw it. I was watching from the window. I don’t know why I didn’t just teleport out and get the hat. Or get him when I saw the branch.

But I didn’t.

The branch was tumbling toward him. He didn’t see it. It hit his head. I swear I could hear the smack even so far away and in the library.

The safe library.

Everyone tells me it was thunder. I don’t believe them.

I heard it. I saw him fall.

I didn’t teleport before. I didn’t get his hat. I didn’t save him from the branch. But I did now.

I teleported. I teleported right to his side. The rain blasted my face, making it hard to see.

Everyone says it wasn’t raining then. I don’t believe them.

It was raining and hard to see. I teleported right into the hospital.

Nurse Redheart ran over to us. She asked questions and I answered. I don’t know what happened after that. They took Spike. Then the doctor came to me. He only said four words. “Spike didn’t make it."

So now I’m here. I’m laying on my bed. And all I can think about is the empty bed next to mine.

"%i%" Beauty

"17" Old Mother

The feelings confused her. She wanted to believe. She truly did. She wanted to believe the Old Mother more than anything. Old Mother had taught her since she was young. Everything she knew about spell and potions, about herbs and spices, about life and death, she had learned from Old Mother.

Except, it wasn’t all true. Most of it was, of course. But these ponies, who looked so different from her kind, were here now. If these ponies were here, that meant there were other lands. Zebrica wasn’t the old place for ponykind in the world. And if that had been a lie, what else had?

Had Old Mother simply not known? She thought it impossible. Old Mother was the leader of the tribe. Old Mother knew what was and wasn’t true. Old mother…

"You lied to me," she said. “You said there were no others of pony kind."

"Zecora," Old Mother reprimanded. The wizened face seemed to darken. “I have never spoken an untruth to you. There are no others of our kind anywhere."

"These ponies are here. They stand before us." Zecora glanced at pink-coated unicorn stallion and blue-coated earth mare. “They are obviously ponykind."

"They are not our kind," Old Mother said harshly. She leveled a glare at Zecora and the two visitors.

"Please, we just want to learn your culture. You can come learn ours," the mare offered. “It will be wonderful. Equestira is full of so many amazing things. And I’ve seen you use magic. Everypony back home would love to know how you do it without a horn."

"We shall not!" Old Mother shook with anger. “Zecora, see these…creatures out of the village. We will not have their kind putting wrong thoughts into foals heads again."

"Again?" Zecora questioned.

Old Mother turned to the Equestrians, though it was obvious she was speaking to Zecora. “They came when I was a filly, offering a land of peace, hope, and love. They promised so many things, but nothing ever came. They deemed us unworthy of their vessel. Our whole village."

"No," the stallion interrupted, only to be quelled under Old Mother’s gaze.

"We will not tolerate their kind in our village again. Not leave."

The two ponies didn’t have to be asked again. They nearly ran out of the small house.

Zecora looked between Old Mother and the door the visitors had just left through. “I wish to go, Old Mother. As a sign of faith. I shall go, and return, and you will see all is well."

"If you leave, you will no longer be part of this village."

"Old Mother, please."

Silence fell. Shaking her head, Zecora backed away a step. “You are wrong this time, Old Mother. I am sorry. I am going. You will see."

Old Mother said nothing as Zecora packed away everything she could need for the trip to the new land, and things she may want or need when she arrived. Old Mother didn’t speak as she followed Zecora out the door. Old Mother didn’t say a word as Zecora said goodbye to her family. Old Mother didn’t make a sound as Zecora walked along the path out of the village.

When Old Mother spoke, Zecora stopped. “When you leave this village, never return," Old mother said. Zecora could feel the prickle of magic on her skin, seeping deep into her very soul. “Though for this land, your soul will yearn. Try and speak, though it’s no use. Your tongue of rhymes will never be loose."

Goosebumps rose on Zecora’s skin as the magic left. She met Old Mother’s gaze as she took the final step. Turning her head forward, she walked on. She didn’t look back once. Not when she heard Old Mother turn to leave. Not at the turn that would be the last time she saw her village again.

Ahead, she saw the pink and blue ponies who had visited her village. The mare ran up to her. “Zecora, isn’t it? We aren’t sure how to get back to the main town. Can you show us?"

She tried to speak. She tried to tell them she could. She tried to tell them she was going with them. Until she remembered Old Mother’s curse.

"I can show you the path you seek, if Equestria I may peek."

The Equestrians looked at each other, confused, but slowly nodded. “Okay, we can. You can come."

With that, Zecora and the other two ponies walked down the road. Head held high, Zecora pushed away thoughts of what lay behind her. Ahead was a shining new world that promised to welcome her with open arms. She only hoped her doubts at Old Mother’s words weren’t in vain.

"%i%" Baby Dragons

"18" Beauty

Twilight watched as Rarity sipped from her teacup. She was talking about the new order she had received from Fancy Pants for a new dress design for Fleur’s birthday. Twilight noticed the shimmer in her eyes. It wasn’t the one that was normally there when she talked of fashion and designs. It didn’t hold the usual excitement in it. No, this one was more of pent up tears and a stone façade that was ready to break at just the right word.

Twilight knew the right word, too. “Rarity," Twilight interrupted Rarity’s thoughts on whether or not to use gems on the dress with the whispered word. Rarity stopped midword, closing her mouth and looking deep into her tea. “How are things with Thunderlane?"

Rarity clenched her teeth together and shook her head. Twilight teleported next to Rarity, white hooves surrounding a purple neck nearly instantly. Rarity pressed her face into Twilight’s neck as she sobbed hard enough to shake them both. Twilight ran her hoof through Rarity’s mane, whispering soft words into the other mare’s ear.

Once Rarity was doing nothing more than sniffing, she pulled away. “What is wrong with me, Twilight?"

Twilight was shocked at her friend’s words. “Nothing. I’ve told you before. There is nothing wrong with you."

"There must be something," Rarity replied. "A stallion has never stayed with me long. I must be really horrible. I don’t know why you girls have kept me around. Don’t tell me there is nothing wrong, either. I used to believe you. But now…Twilight, they keep getting shorter. Do I focus too much on my shop?"

Two hooves wrapped around Rarity’s face as Twilight forced the white mare to face her. “There is nothing wrong with you. The stallions are just…"

"See, dear," Rarity said. “You can’t even say there was anything wrong with them. Do you know Thunderlane is the fifth stallion I’ve dated since Winter Wrap Up alone?" A mirthless laugh escaped her throat. “Of course you do. You’re always the one who notices first. Of course, I do know what’s wrong with me. It is obvious, isn’t it? Blueblood was horrid, of course. But then there was Ace, Caramel, Baratone, Cherry Fizzy, and even All Aboard. It’s just me. No stallion wants me."

Tears streamed silently down Rarity’s face. Twilight shook her head, tenderly wiping away the tears. “That isn’t true," Twilight said softly. “You really don’t see the way stallions look at you, do you. You walk into a room and heads turn. Once somepony gets to know you, they can’t help but love you. I’ve never seen a pony more beautiful, outside or in. The problem with those stallions, Rare, is simple. They don’t know how to handle such beauty."

A small smile spread across Rarity’s lips. “You always say the most wonderful things when I’m like this." Despite her unsure tone, her eyes sparkled with a happiness.

Twilight simply smiled back. “I don’t say anything that isn’t true. The pony that catches you will be lucky indeed."

A soothing quiet settled between the pair. Rarity returned to her tea. Twilight walked back to her seat. Rarity smiled again as she glanced at Twilight. “As I was saying, I simply cannot decide if I should use the topaz or leave them off."

"%i%" Her Time

"19" Baby Dragons

It’s funny how much a year can change things. Foals grow a lot in a year. Equestria goes through four seasons. And I guess baby dragons can grow up.

Twilight gave me this journal a year ago. She said I would like looking back through it and seeing how much I’ve grown. Really, though, I don’t need this. I haven’t changed much physically—sure, I’ve grown a couple inches and my wings are coming in, but that isn’t what I’m talking about.

Last Heart’s and Hooves Eve, I was doing my best to find a way to make Rarity love me. I had the perfect date planned out. I never got the courage to actually ask her, though. I knew I would be the knight in shining armor, flying in to save her. Eventually.

That time never came, though. Rarity is more than capable of taking care of herself. Instead, she saved me a couple times. Slowly, I let go of the idea that she needed saving. I stopped planning out ways to make her like me. And then it was Heart’s and Hooves Eve again.

Rarity came to the library today to talk to me. She sat me down at the kitchen table. It was all very quiet, but I didn’t mind. I know she needs to collect her thoughts and gather the right phrasings. After she had drank about half of her tea, she sighed.

"Spike, darling, I have some very…important news I wish to talk to you about. I want you to understand that…" She bit her lip, looking really worried about what she was trying to say. I’d never known a time when words would fail her, so I reached across the table to take her hoof in my claw.

Her hoof jerked back and she looked up, almost startled. “Spike. I have a coltfriend, dear. I wanted to tell you, to talk to you about it. I know you’ve had…feelings for me for the last couple of years. I don’t want you to think that I don’t love you, I do. You’ll always be my Spikey-Wikey. But that is just it. That is who you will always be for me. I could never see you as a lover." Her cheeks tinged pink at the last word and she looked into her tea. “I’m sorry."

I had expected to feel crushed or hurt. I was prepared for that. What I wasn’t prepared for was the lack of any kind of feeling about the news. “That’s great. I’m happy for you."She looked up again, her expression guarded. “I mean it. I…" I chuckled a little. “I’ve actually don’t have a crush on you anymore." The words seemed foreigner coming out of my mouth, but the instant I said them, I knew they were true. I used to think I was in love with Rarity. I was angry whenever Twilight called it a crush. And yet…there I was, actually happy that Rarity had a special somepony that wasn’t me.

"Oh, well then, I suppose this is just awkward then. I am sorry, Spike." She stood to leave, but I stopped her.

"Rarity, wait. I…I appreciate you coming to tell me. For thinking about my feelings like that."

"Of course. You are a very special friend to me, Spike." She leaned down and kissed my cheek.

For once, my heart didn’t melt.

It’s funny how much a year can change things. Foals grow a lot in a year. Equestira goes through four seasons. And I guess baby dragons can grow up.

"%i%" Happy Birthday

"20" Her Time

This was her time. Derpy sighed as she looked out at the water. The bright midsummer sun reflected on the water, shimmering, almost dazzlingly. Almost. But not quite. She breathed out slowly, enjoying the warmth of the sun on her fur. Her eyes closed as a small smile spread across her lips.

This was her time. Carrot Top had taken Dinky to the park so she could play with her friends. She had finished her mail run for the day. There was nothing left to do. Normally, her world centered around her daughter. Normally, she was making sure the house was in order, that dinner was planned, that Dinky was doing well. Normally. But not always

This was her time. She opened her eyes, breathing a controlled breath out as she released the last of the tension in her back. She walked to the water. A lake was nothing like the ocean she grew up next to, but it was still nice. The water was chilly to her sun-warmed skin, but she welcomed the cool. The water quickly rose up her side as she walked, until it reached the base of her wings. She fluttered them out, slowly dipping them in the water and moving them back and forth. She grinned.

This was her time. She picked her hooves up off the lake floor and began soft strokes to warm up. She had loved swimming since she had been a filly. And she was good at it. Her cutie mark on her flank proved it. Moving through the water had always been therapeutic, but she didn’t get a chance to swim much in Ponyville. The lake was always open, of course, but she had so many things to do. Now wasn’t the time to think of that, though. No.

This was her time. She let her worries go as the water flowed between her feathers. All negative thoughts subsided as she dove below the water. All stress vanished as she broke the surface and breathed in breaths of sweet air. She wasn’t sure how long she was out there for, but the sun had made considerable progress as she lazily swam back to shore. Her blonde mane stuck to her face and her eyes were red from getting lake water in them. But she didn’t care. She grinned as she trotted her to towel and dried off before heading home, where Carrot Top had promised to make dinner. Thoughts of Dinky drifted into her mind as she left the lake, and her smile only widened.

That had been her time. But then, Dinky was her time too. And she hadn’t seen her daughter since breakfast. Taking to the sky, she flew the short distance home.

"%i%" Daring Dash

"22" Confession

I feel their eyes on me as I clink my hooves together. I know they’re growing worried each second we sit here and I don’t say anything, but I don’t know where to start. I’ve kept this secret from them, from everypony, really, for so long and I don’t know what to tell them or how they will react. My hoof holds my knotting stomach.

"Pinkie," mom says carefully, “are you pregnant?"

Shocked, I gape at her. “I…what…no, of course not. I…" I shake my head. “It isn’t that. I just need…give me a minute."

"It’s okay, honey. You don’t have to be so nervous. We’re your parents."

I blink and nod. It doesn’t matter, not right now. All I can think of are the things they will say; what they will do when I finally tell them. How can I explain this to them? It’s hard, but I finally bring my eyes to meet theirs.

They are both looking at me, giving me their undivided attention. Fighting the urge to lose my lunch, I close my eyes. “Okay, mom, dad." Opening my eyes, I see worry and uncertainty in their eyes. “I’m gay."

Dad doesn’t do anything. He just sits there, his brow furrowed in confusion. “Ah."

"What do you mean, Pinkie?" Mom’s voice is a forced calm.

I clear my throat and look at the ground. “I-I mean I like mares. Not stallions." I look between them both, fearing what may happen next.

"Don’t be silly. You’re straight."

Any hopes I had of acceptance dies there. Mom is still saying something with dad sitting passively by her side, like always. I had known this was a mistake. I should have never told them. I force the tears back and my voice to be steady as I stand. “I’m going to go now. I’ll see you…" I trail off as I walk to the door.

Neither of them follow me.

A pair of purple hooves wrap around me once I get back to the hotel room. “It didn’t go well?" Twilight wipes tears from my eyes. I simply let my head drop against her chest.

"It was…I don’t even know. Mom tried to tell me I wasn’t…and she kept talking. I don’t even know what she said. I just left. I…" Another sob escapes me.

"Hey," her gentle voice says, and I raise my head to look at her. “We knew your parents would have a hard time, didn’t we? I knew I should have gone. I could have helped." She kissed my cheek and nuzzled my neck. “I bet I know how to make you feel better, though."

She levitates over a cupcake, holding it slightly above my head. “And there are more where that came from."

I giggle. Maybe my parents wouldn’t accept it. Not yet. But I still had her. And that was what really mattered.

"%i%" Family?

"23" Daring Dash

Rainbow Dash took a step forward through the Everfree Forest. She was deep in the forest, near the middle. She was looking for something, she knew. But what that was she couldn’t quite remember. All she knew was that she was looking for an ancient temple that held an object of great mystery

She glanced up with a sigh. The trees were too thick for her to fly through. She could barely stretch her wings on the ground as it were. Not to mention, she was lost.

"We are not lost, Dash," a voice from behind her said. “I told you, it’s just ahead."

"Right," Dash replied. “Where’s the map to prove it?"

The pegasus with Dash gave her an are-you-kidding-me look. “Have you looked at my Cutie Mark? It’s a compass for a reason."

Dash shrugged and moved on. She pushed through the trees and—

"Told you," Daring Doo said as she moved past Dash toward the temple. Though it was deep in the forest, it glittered in the limited sunlight. "Now, for the fun part."

The inside of the temple was dark. Daring passed Dash a torch. “Okay," Daring whispered, turning to Dash. “This is the hard part. Do exactly what I say. We need to get to the middle without setting off any booby traps. It’s really easy, though, don’t step on anything that looks like it might be a button of some sort, okay?"

Dash rolled her eyes. “Yeah, sure."

Daring’s hoof roughly stopped Dash. “There it is," she said. Dash looked up at the skull. It was similar to a ponies, but it looked different. And it seemed to be made out of a type of gem she had never seen before.

"Yes, we did it Daring," Dash grinned.

"Umm, I’m not Daring," Daring Doo replied.

"Huh?" Dash blinked and looked up, Twilight’s library coming into view.

Twlight giggled. “I said I’m not Daring. You were really into that, weren’t you?"

Dash’s shoulders slumped as she looked down at the book in her hands. Daring Doo was still trying to make her way through the forest to the Temple of Destiny. “I was just…" Dash rubbed her leg before shrugging. “I was imagining what might happen and forgot to read. I was there and everything. It was so awesome. But…it wasn’t real."

Twilight cocked her head to the side. “That’s how you know you really like something, Dash. There are several fiction series I think about like that. If you wanted…umm…you could even write stories about Daring Doo yourself. It’s…kind of a thing."

Dash blinked. Write her own Daring Doo adventure. “That actually sounds fun, Twi."

Twilight smiled. “I’ll help you too, give you pointers. Maybe we could write it together."

"Yeah, that would be nice." Rainbow stood and stretched her wings out. “Do you do that too, then? I mean, imagine the scenes ahead like that? It was so real…almost like it was really happening, even though it was all in my head."

"Of course it happens inside your head, Dash, but all stories do. That doesn’t mean they aren’t real."* Twilight giggled.

"%i%" The Look

"24" Family?

"You’re having a foal?" Pinkie asked.

Mrs. Cake and Mrs. Cake smiled and nodded. She took in their grinning faces and clapped hooves. They were ecstatic. They were going to have a foal of their own to take care of and raise. She should be happy for them.

She wasn’t. The smile on her face stretched into a grin she didn’t feel. She didn’t want them to know how she felt. It didn’t matter that her stomach felt like she had ate fifty cupcakes before lunch again. The way the air suddenly felt too thick to breathe wasn’t an issue. They were happy, so she should be happy.

"Is something wrong, Pinkie?" Mrs. Cake’s smile transformed into a frown. The worried pink eyes searched Pinkie’s blue ones.

Stretching her grin to the breaking point, she shook her head. “Nope. What would be wrong? Foals are tonnes of fun." She giggled. It was high pitched and different from her other giggles. Mrs. Cake narrowed her eyes. “I mean, they are so cute like this little bunny Fluttershy was showing me earlier and—"

"Pinkie."

Mrs. Cake always knew when Pinkie wasn’t being truthful. Pinkie’s own mother hadn’t had that ability, but Mrs. Cake did. “It had the most adorable brown eyes. I almost brought it home but I didn’t know if Gummy wanted a b-brother or s-sister." She stuttered out the last words, her gaze falling to the table.

It wasn’t like this foal was going to be her brother or sister. Both of her sisters were back on the farm. The Cakes were just her employers and landlords. Even if she sometimes forgot it, they weren’t her parents.

Mrs. Cake put her hoof under Pinkie’s chin, raising her head so they could look into each other’s eye. “You don’t want us to have the foal?"

"That would be silly, Mrs. Cake." Pinkie tried smiling again.

Mrs. Cake sighed and looked to her husband. “Carrot?"

"What?" he asked, looking slightly alarmed. After a look Pinkie couldn’t quite see, he turned to face her. He opened his mouth a couple times, only to shut it again. Had the situation been different, Pinkie would have giggled. Now, she wanted to be anywhere but where she was. “Do you want a cupcake?"

Ignoring Mrs. Cake putting her hoof to her face, Pinkie nodded. “Yeah!"

"I’ll be right back." Avoiding his wife’s gaze, Carrot walked into the kitchen of the bakery.

Silence stretched between the two ponies left. Pinkie looked anywhere but at Mrs. Cake, while Mrs. Cake looked directly at Pinkie. “Pinkie, look at me." Slowly, Pinkie complied. “If you want us to have the foal, then what’s wrong?"

"Nothing."

"You aren’t acting like it’s nothing."

Pinkie stared at Mrs. Cake for a moment. “How am I supposed to tell you? It isn’t like you’re really anything to me, is it? I mean, you aren’t my mom. We aren’t even related. You just let me work and live here. It really doesn’t matter what I think because you’re starting the family you probably wanted before I came and now you’re getting it and I really don’t even matter." Despite the tears running down her face, Pinkie’s voice was growing stronger. “It isn’t like I don’t already have younger sisters, right? I know I do. I know it doesn’t change anything. But it does, Mrs. Cake. You’re having a foal with Mr. Cake and they are going to be your son or daughter and I…I’m…" Pinkie put her face in her hooves as she leaned against the table. “I’m not," she said in a whisper.

She wanted to run out of the room. She wanted to take back what she had said, but she couldn’t. So she just hid her face with her hooves and hoped Mrs. Cake would somehow forget everything. Maybe she could talk to Twilight…

She was jerked from her thoughts by a pair of hooves wrapping around her. “Pinkie," Mrs. Cake said, holding her tight. “I might not have physically given birth to you, but that does not mean you aren’t my daughter." Mrs. Cake pulled away, though she still kept a hoof wrapped around the other pony. “You always will matter." Pulling Pinkie closer, Mrs. Cake kissed the top of her head. “And you will always, always, be my daughter."

The two sat in a small silence. Pinkie had her head on Mrs. Cake’s shoulder and her eyes closed until the door to the kitchen opened. “I have cupcakes!" Mr. Cake announced as he backed into the room. “I got one for everyone. And your favorite Pinkie, dark chocolate with…what happened?"

He looked between the mares, noticing Pinkie’s still wet fur and the expressions they both wore.

"I just hope I get a baby brother," Pinkie said. “Now, did you remember all six sprinkle colors?"

"%i%" 382 Only the Best

"25" The Look

You know that look. That look is never a good look. You look at the table, you look at the books, you look at the couch. You look at anything and everything to avoid that look. The look she gives you that shatters your heart. The look that lets you know you messed up again. You hurt her with something you did or said.

She won’t say anything about it. You know that. She isn’t one to fight. She will turn back to her book in just a moment, though she won’t make it more than five pages before she puts it down. You rack your brain, trying to think of what you had said. You, normally so careful with your words, had said something foolish to hurt her.

You want to apologize, but you need to know what you’re apologizing for first. You had been talking of designing a new dress for her. She had said something about wearing one of the dresses she already owned. And you had said…

"I didn’t mean it that way, darling," you tell her. “I doubt your dress size has changed at all. I meant the dresses you have wouldn’t fit the occasion."

She looks up at you, her purple eyes betraying her feelings. “Oh. I thought I would wear the dress you made me for my birthday last year. I haven’t had a chance to wear it since, and it would be nice for a garden party, wouldn’t it?"

You lick your lips and pick your words carefully again before speaking. “What I had hoped was to design a new one especially for the occasion. It will be practical, I promise."

She shifts slightly on the couch and frowns into her book. “Okay then."

That look is still there. Had that not been what had caused it in the first place. You close your eyes and think back, but nothing comes to mind. With an inward sigh, you scoot to the cushion next to her. “What is bothering you, dear?"

She glances at you before reverting her eyes to the book again. “Nothing."

You lick your lips again. “Please tell me. We need to talk about these things. Otherwise, they build up until they explode. We don’t want…" You trail off as she sits the book onto the coffee table in front of you.

Then she sniffs. You wrap your hooves around her, pulling her as close to you as you can. “I am so sorry," you say before you know what it is you’ve done. It is rare for her to cry like this. She shifts her head so that it is lying on your shoulder as you stroke her mane.

"You’ll think it’s silly. I was just thinking about the garden party tomorrow. For them, for their anniversary. And…I want that."

She pulls away from you, and you can feel your heart beating faster. “You do?"

"I do," she whispers.

Thousands of thoughts fly through your mind. She wants what they have. She wants that with you. Breathing becomes a harder task as the full depth of what she’s asking hits you. You look into her eyes as a smile spreads across your face. “I want that to."

You lean in and press your lips to hers, revealing in the emotion she puts into in. You pull her close again, so close you can feel her frantic heart beat. After a moment, you pull away. “I love you, darling."

She rest her forehead against yours and similes. “I love you, too."

You Comment!

You love that this story never mentions either pony by name, and yet makes it perfectly obvious who both the viewpoint character and her lover are through characterization. The sequence where Rarity does anything not to meet Twilight’s eyes at the beginning particularly impressed you. You were most definitely drawn in emotionally, and were happy when the story ended on a high note.

"%i%" Only One

"26" 382 Only the Best

The towns speaker system hadn’t been used in years. It was only used in the most extreme emergencies. Some ponies would have thought the Cerberus that had wondered into town would have counted as an emergency, but that was tame next to the forest the town was built next to. Some would have said the night Celestia went missing from the Summer Sun Celebration would have been the perfect time to use it, but then who hadn’t attended the celebration that year? No, the speakers had only been used once since the town had installed them, when a freak tornado had came from the Everfree.

So, when the speakers crackled, every pony stopped what they were doing and listened. Only small foals like Pumpkin and Pound Cake seemed to pay no mind to the noise, in stead continuing to play with their toys.

“Citizens of Ponyville,” came Mayor Mare’s voice over the speaker system, “Every pony whose coat is of a primary color is required to come to town hall immediately . I am sorry for the disruption of your day.” With that, the speakers crackled once again before falling as silent as they had ever been.

The laughter of two foals brought Cup Cake out of her reverie. With her mouth hanging slightly open, she looked over to her husband. Out of their family, she was the only one with a coat the primary colors. Still, she couldn’t find it within her to move. What could possibly be going on that required ponies to be sorted by coat color, of all things?

Thankful that her husband and children would be left out of whatever this was, she took a deep breath and moved toward the door of the bakery.

“Cuppy,” Carrot said, “don’t go. We can pretend we didn’t hear…I don’t have a good feeling about this.”

Cup walked over to her husband and put a hoof to his face. ” It’ll be okay, dearie. Don’t ya worry. Watch, I’ll be back quicker than Pinkie eating a chocolate cake, eh.” She pressed her lips to his before turning to the door, squaring her shoulders, and walking out.

The streets were virtually empty. She wasn’t sure where everyone had gone, as it had been a sunny market Thursday, but everyone had disappeared. Only the ponies going to town all were out.

It didn’t take long for Cup to arrive at town hall. She looked around, surprised at the small number of ponies. She saw Pinkie’s friend, Rainbow Dash, fluttering nervously. Macintosh looked as calm as ever, a stark contrast to Fluttershy, who seemed to be trying to both cling to Rainbow, and burry herself in the ground.

The doors of town hall opened, and the small group of ponies cautiously moved forward. In the circular room stood a blue unicorn with a smug smirk on her face. “Oh, no, no. This won’t do at all. Trixie needs only the best servants.”

"%i%" Sleep Well, Little One

"28" Twilight's Mother

Celestia was just lying down, prepared to get what sleep she could before dawn in three hours, when her door creaked open. She sat up and watched as a small shadow snuck in before closing the door behind it. The figure was small, no larger than a filly. It made its way to the bed and sat, staring up.

"Princess, I can’t sleep," came the voice of her new student. “I…" the little filly sighed, her head hanging down. “Can you make me sleep?"

A warm smile graced Celestia’s face as she scooped the filly up in her wings. It had been centuries since she had taken on a personal student, and she had never had one so young. This filly was barely old enough to be in school at eight years old. The progress the filly had made in just six months was astounding, though.

"What is wrong, my little pony?" Celestia asked in the most soothing voice she could.

"I had a bad dream. Shiny had to go to the battle of brazen hill and he was trying to save me from Hard Hoof but he couldn’t and…and…" the little pony sniffled and nuzzled into Celestia’s chest.

Cradling the filly in her wings, Celestia brushed her mane back from her face. “Shhh…it’s okay, Twilight. Shining Armor is still in Canterlot, and Hard Hoof is a figure of ancient history. Everyone is safe, hmmm."

The sniffling slowed as Twilight looked up to Celestia, her large purple eyes already full of trust. “Yes, I know. I was just afraid." She blinked before her eyes widened. “Oh no, Princess, I’m sorry." The filly practically leaped from Celestia’s grasp and onto the stone floor, before bowing. “M-Mother told me not to bother you unless you called, because you would be so busy, but I did it anyway. I wasn’t thinking, Princess, and I am sorry."

"Twilight," Celesita said, shaking her head. She scooped the filly into her wings again and made sure to look her in the eyes. “Twilight, no." She held the filly closer. “I want to know when you’re troubled, or when you’re happy, or whatever it is that you want to share with me, okay?"

"But you have a whole empire to run. I shouldn’t bother you with my silly problems. You’re just here to teach me, not…" the filly grappled for the words she was wanting to say.

"I’m here for you, Twilight." The filly looked up, a small smile forming on her face. “Yes, I have an empire to run, but that doesn’t mean I don’t have time for you, dear. Have you been keeping many things like this from me?"

Twilight shook her head. “No. I normally don’t have really bad dreams. I must have looked at the moon too much. Mother always said if you do, the mare will send you nightmares." The yawning filly missed the flicker of emotion on Celestia’s face. “Oh, I’m sorry. I guess I should…umm..go." The filly stood slowly and seemed to almost crawl out of Celestia’s embrace.

"Twilight, do you want to sleep with me tonight?"

"Yes," Twilight bounded over to the other side of the bed and snuggled under the blanket so quickly it was almost as if she had teleported. “Thank you, Princess." She gave one last yawn before turning onto her side. “Goodnight."

Despite having to get up in a very short amount of time, Celestia found herself unable to sleep. She would have to ensure Twilight understood she could come to her for anything. A thought crossed her mind, and she would have snorted had she not had so many years to get such urges under control. She knew she felt something stronger than a simple student-teacher relationship for the small filly lying beside her. She felt as if the filly were part of herself. Twilight was so much more than just a student. Smiling to herself, Celestia leaned down and kissed the young filly just below the horn. “Goodnight, Twilight."

As she closed her eyes and drifted off to sleep, she imagined many more times when she would feel like this. Time when she would think of herself, even if only for a few moments, as Twilight’s mother.

"%i%" By Her Side

"29" Sleep Well, Little One

Celestia didn’t know how Luna was doing it. She didn’t think the filly had slept since she had gotten her cutie mark two days prior. Celestia certainly hadn’t.

The moon was low in the sky now, which meant she would have to raise the sun and take care of what tasks were set before her. Sighing, she watched as Luna bounced from stone to stone in the foyer, making a different sound each time.

Lying on the stone floor, Celestia felt her eyes droop…

Suddenly, something landed on her. “Aww, don’t sleep yet Celly. We’re still celebrating. Remember? Me and you for like, forever now. I get to help you with the sky!"

Luna’s pure joy made Celestia smile. “I know Lulu. I’m just sleepy, that’s all."

"Oh, but you can’t be sleepy. We gotta raise the sun!" The wide eyes and excited expression were the only thing that got Celestia too her hooves. “Okay, come along. We’ll raise the sun, and then I’ll get started on my days chores."

"Do I have chores now? Like you do?" Luna asked, trotting along side Celestia.

"The same ones you’ve always had."

Luna was bouncing with excitement when they made it to the raising platform. “Can I try the moon by myself?"she asked, wide eyes pleading. Celestia nodded and Luna grinned. Lighting up her horn, she braced her hooves against the stone of the platform and pulled.

The moon moved slowly past the horizon. “Look Celly! I did it."

It was all Celestia could do to smile as she lit her own horn and raised the sun. She glared at the dim light for a moment, dreading the long day ahead.

She was surprised when she felt Luna lean against her and heard a yawn. “Wow, Celly, I’m sleepy." The little filly yawned again. “Do we have to stay awake today?"

"Come here," Celestia said, lifting Luna onto her back. “I’ll take you to your room."

By the time they had reached Luna’s room, the filly had fallen asleep. Carefully, so she wouldn’t wake her, Celestia levitated Luna off her back and into the bed. She pulled the cover up, tucking the filly in well. Placing a kiss at the base of her horn, Celestia smiled. “Sleep well, little one."

"%i%" Take the Cake

"30" By Her Side

Celestia smiled as Twilight walked away. She watched as the new alicorn ruffled her wings uncomfortably. She knew the young mare would get used to them with time.

Her smile grew. Time. She had time with Twilight now. She had all the time she wanted. As the door of the throne room closed, Celesita closed her eyes.

Celestia watched as a giddy foal jumped around the study. For such a young age, she was very eager to learn. This was always her favorite part about taking on students. She always had a small collection of young minds she taught at her school, but this was the first time she had ever made it truly personal. This filly would live in the castle. This filly would be near her every moment of everyday.

Except for home visits and holidays, the small voice in her mind spoke. Her smile fell, even as the excited filly ran from place to place looking at all the learning supplements at her disposal. “Come, my little pony, let us begin our lesson," Celestia said.

Yes, Twilight Sparkle—No, Princess Twilight Sparkle would be with her. All was right. Her sister was back, her niece was in her rightful kingdom, and Twilight was where she was always meant to be. In the castle, ruling with Celestia. Everything was going perfectly.

Twilight wasn’t like the other ponies. No, Twilight wanted to stay with her, too. Celestia knew it, as she knew she raised and lowered the sun every day. As she knew her sister would raise and lower the moon. As she knew Equestria would keep shining brilliantly.

Twilight had grown a lot. Changed a lot. Still, she was Twilight. The same Twilight. Celestia had bought her a new telescope, so she could study the stars she so loved. Twilight loved learning about magic more than any other subject, but astronomy was an incredibly close second.

The teen’s smile threatened to split her face as she looked out the telescope. “It makes you think."

"Think what?" Celestia asked.

"What will you do when I’m gone, Princess?"

Celestia felt a cold seep into her chest. Twilight…gone? She knew it would happen. It was inevitable. Everyone left at some point. Be it due to death, like her subjects. Be it to force, like her love. Be it through betrayal, like her sister. Everyone left. No one ever stayed. No one ever cared.

"I always carry on," Celestia said.

"I would stay with you, if I could." Twilight had abandoned her new toy to nuzzle her mentor. “I love you."

"I love you, too," Celestia said, returning the nuzzle.

Twilight would stay? Twilight wanted to stay? This she would have to look into.

Celestia shook her head. The rest of Twilight’s life would be exponentially longer now. Yes, Twilight would be amazed—no, that wasn’t the right word. There wasn’t a word to describe how Twilight would feel when she discovered her more innate abilities as a princess of Equestria. As the Princess of Friendship. Magic. Whatever the title she chose, Celestia didn’t care.

All that mattered was Twilight would be with her. She wouldn’t be alone again. Not again.

Twilight would be by Celestia’s side for the rest of their lives.

"%i%" Crystal Sunrise

"31" Take the Cake

It had taken many, many, many, many, many lessons from Pinkie Pie for Twilight to finally perfect the art of cake making. Not simple from-the-box cakes, though. This was hand crafted from only the best ingredients. It had taken hours to complete. Days, if you counted the wait-time for some parts. It had been worth it, though.

The cake itself topped off just above Twilight’s horn. Five layers of favors, from the bottom made of decadent chocolate, to sweet strawberry, to vanilla, to red velvet to the very top made of the Princess’s very favorite flavor, coconut rum. It had been painstakingly frosted with a vanilla whipped topping.

Then Twilight had trimmed it, starting from the base, with the colors she associated with the Princess. The bottom three layers contained the colors of her mane. The layer next to the top was trimmed in a brilliant purple, and the top in red.

It hadn’t been hard convincing the palace staff to stay quiet about her little project. She may not have been a princess for long, but they had known her since she had been a small filly. She ruffled her feathers, taking a deep breath.

An uneasiness settled into her stomach as she thought of what she planned to do. She cast a glance to the snow storm out the window. Though it was early afternoon, the sky was dark from the clouds. Tearing her gaze away, she took a deep breath. Carefully, she guided the cake through the castle. Many of the staff who knew her plan smiled encouragingly at her.

Of course, she hadn’t told them why she hand wanted to surprise Celestia with a cake. Her stomach tightened at the thought. She hoped, desperately, that Celestia didn’t see her as a filly still. She knew their age difference was vast, but with a pony like Celestia, only two people were close in age with her.

Twilight focused on the cake, making sure nothing brushed against it. It had to be perfect. The Princess love her sweets. Every pony knew that. And Twilight felt, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that this cake would help her cause. She had made it for the Princess, specifically. It held everything she loved about cakes.

Still, when Twilight found herself outside of Celestia’s chambers, she paused. She had been over the facts in her head many times. The Princess didn’t see her as a little filly anymore. She was a princess herself, after all. Twilight had been dropping subtle hints, or so she felt, of her feelings, and the Princess had seemed to return them. At least, that’s what Rarity said.

Yet she couldn’t help the nagging pit of doubt growing her her stomach. Maybe what everyone said about the Princess was wrong. Maybe Celestia didn’t favor sweets like the staff had assured her. Maybe Twilight had made a mistake over the last few months, bringing the Princess sweets every week. Had she actually seen Celestia eat that box of chocolates? And the cupcake from last week had sat on the table the entire time they had chatted.

Just as Twilight was about to turn and leave, the Princess’s door opened. “Oh my, what’s this?"

Peaking out from behind the cake, Twilight pushed her worries from her mind. “Ah, I was…it’s a present for you, Princess. I was hoping we could talk."

Celestia nodded, turning and heading back into the chambers. “This is certainly a surprise, my little pony. What’s the occasion?"

Twilight felt the heat rise to her cheeks. “I…I trust you know what today is, Princess?"

"Twilight," Celestia began, but Twilight cut her off.

"Please, Princess, hear me out. I’ve been trying for so long…Have you liked the presents I’ve been bringing you?"

"Yes, I have enjoyed them. Sweets are my downfall." A small smile graced Celestia’s lips, encouraging Twilight.

-time-

"Right. A-and I did all of that for a reason. I…" Twilight took a deep breath to gather her nerves. “I like you, Prin—" Twilight stopped, shaking her head. “I really like you, Celestia. I think I might even love you. I thought today would be the perfect day, since it is Hearts and Hooves, and…Celestia, will you be my special some pony."

It was all Twilight could to do to continue looking at Celestia. Though the moment only lasted seconds, it felt like an eternity to Twilight. Celestia carefully reached out with her magic and cut a slice of the cake. Taking a small bit, her eyes lit up.

"My, my, Twilight. This cake is amazing."

Twilight felt her ears droop. Celestia was going to ignore the entire confession. She stared at the floor, until a plate with a slice of cake floated over to her. “Would you like some? I think sharing cake with your special some pony is something of a custom, isn’t it?"

Twilight looked up at Celestia, wide-eyed. Her grin spread across her face, to match the one Celestia wore. “They always say the way to a mare’s heart is through her stomach. Turns out, that is doubly true for me." Leaning in closer, so that Twilight could smell the coconut rum cake on Celestia’s breath, she added, “and it doesn’t hurt when the looks just as tasty."

Looking into Celestia’s eyes, Twilight closed the gap.

"%i%" Can I See Him?

"32" Crystal Sunrise

Twilight’s heart beat quickly. She was a princess, and as such, she had the right to be anywhere in the palace she wished. Even so, she was certain her brother would not be happy if he discovered her following Flash Sentry through his palace just before dawn.

It was all she could do to keep from giggling as Flash stopped at a set of stairs and looked around. “I swear you’ll love this, Princess," he said. “Still, we’ve got about ten minutes before we can go up."

"What is it you’re wanting to show me, anyway?" She had been trying to figure it out, but she wasn’t as familiar with this palace as she was with the one in Canterlot.

Flash smiled, and she felt her stomach turn to butterflies. The few times she had returned to the Crystal Empire since the trip to the other world, he had been her guard. He had quickly became her friend, and as much as she tried, she couldn’t help but feel what she had felt in that other world, for the other Flash. Only now that she had gotten to know him, the feeling had intensified.

"I told you, Princess, it’s a surprise. Don’t worry." Without the armor and helmet on, he looked much more relaxed. Still, that didn’t stop him from glancing out of a nearby window every few seconds.

"Twilight, Flash. It’s just Twilight. I told you before."

"Protocol." When she frowned, he bumped her side. “Okay, how about I call you Twilight only off duty?"

She smiled. “That sounds great."

He held her gaze for a moment before glancing out the window again. “Okay, time to go up. Come on." He started up the stairs, making sure Twilight was behind him. “You need to be careful when we get up here, Prin— Twilight. I know you have wings, but I’ve also seen you use them." With that, he threw open a door.

A soft breeze blew in, and Twilight looked around. They were on the roof of one of the towers. Even in the dark of pre-dawn, she could tell most, if not all, of the city was visible from the hight.

"So…" She said as she joined him on the edge. “This is…interesting."

He chuckled. “Wait for it," he said softly.

The wind, that had seemed so gentle before, made Twilight shiver. She wrapped her wings around her, but it didn’t do much good.

She jumped at Flash Sentry’s touch. He draped a wing over her, softly pulling her closer. Her breath caught as their sides touched. She looked over at him, thankful for the dark fur hiding her blush. “Wouldn’t do for the Princess to get a cold," he mumbled, looking straight ahead.

The smile she didn’t realize she had fell at those words. She looked back at the horizon. The sun was just starting to peak over the city. Slowly, it rose, making the glittering city shine. Flash Sentry tightened his hold on Twilight was she watched, open mouthed.

"This is beautiful. "With a heart of pure crystal, what better place to find love," she whispered as the sunlight touched the Crystal Heart, coloring it a brilliant pink.

"I knew you would like it." His voice was closer than she anticipated. Turning to her head, she saw his face was mere centimeters from hers. Her heart beat as if she had galloped for hours, even as she was transfixed by their closeness. “I don’t mean to seem…out of line, T-Twilight, but I like you. A lot. And—"

Flash Sentry was cut off by a pair of lips pressing to his. Twilight wrapped a hoof around his neck, pulling him closer to her. The sun had made considerable progress in rising when she pulled away. “I like you too, Flash." She smiled a demure smile as she laid her head in his shoulder.

She felt him Pull her as close as he could with his wing and lay his head on hers.

"%i%" Interview with Pinkie

"34" Moving Up

A pink-coated filly with a messily curly mane bounced into the classroom, closely followed by two hesitant adult ponies. The mother stepped in first her light grey coat and dark grey mane nearly blending in with the drab surroundings of the room. The father was just behind, his brown coat standing out against the otherwise overwhelming grey.

"Pinkamena, stop," the mother said.

"Aww, but its fun, ma." Still, she stopped bouncing.

The teacher looked simply looked at the couple for a moment. "I am so glad you could come," she said. "I understand that you've missed the last three parent-teacher meetings because of farm work."

The father simply nodded his head, while the mother gave a nervous smile. The teacher sighed. "Igneous, Cloudy…" she addressed the father and mother, respectively. Then she paused, unsure of what to say.

Pinkamena looked between the three adults. "You know, when I don't know how to say something, I sing it. You remember, Mrs. Sleet? When you asked me why I was smiling, even though I was being punished, and—"

"Yes, Pinkamena. That's part of why we're here."

"We're sorry," Cloudy said. "We know she's a bit of a hoofful at times. We try to get her up early enough to let some of her energy out. She's never been one for stillness. Especially after last summer."

The three adult ponies all glanced at the filly, who's ears drooped.

"That isn't why I called you here," Mrs. Sleet said. "Though we should discuss that particular at a later date. Pinkamena seems almost…bored, by what we do in class. I believe that is behind the amount of interruptions we have."

Igneous and Cloudy looked at each other, confused. "Bored? She loves school." Igneious said. "She's always been excited to come and see her friends, or to tell us about a formula you've taught her or—"

"That is exactly the problem." Mrs. Sleet smiled as their confusion grew. "Pinkamena is only seven years old. We are learning complex multiplication and division. Not algebraic formulas." Licking her lips, Mrs. Sleet continued. "I believe she should be moved to a higher grade. She will, of course, be with older ponies and graduate much earlier than her peers, but the work will be much more challenging for her. You remember the test we gave her two months ago? She scored a 153. That means she is highly gifted."

The parents looked over at their daughter, who was now looking out the classroom window. Sensing the eyes on her, she turned and grinned. "It's starting to snow. The first snow of the season. Can we get a sled? Marble and Limestone would positlutly love it, and we could go out to the big hill and it would be so much fun!" She squealed the last word. "And afterward, maybe we could have a 'first snow of the year' party. We haven't had a party since last summer when I threw that one to surprise everypony and it will be lots and lots of fun. Please?" Her wide eyes shimmered with hope.

"We will discuss it later, Pinkamena." Cloudy smiled as Pinkamena turned back to the window to watch the snowfall.

"That Pinkamena is the one you want to send forward a grade?"

"Well, several grades, actually. With what we have planned, she will be finished with school by fourteen. Then she would become an apprentice to somepony who could really help her. With a mind like hers, she could easily become the greatest mind Equestria has seen since the Princess herself."

A long silence stretched between the ponies as the parents took in what the teacher had said. "That's…our daughter could…" Cloudy shook her head. "The filly can't focus enough to complete her chores, let along do something like this."

"You can't pass up this opportunity. Your daughter is incredibly gifted. By the time she is fourteen, she will have already started her apprenticeship. Most ponies don't start that until they are sixteen."

After another shot pause, Igneous nodded. "We need some time to discuss this."

"Of course. Can we meet again in two weeks? The sooner we move on this, the more benefit Pinkamena will have."

After setting up the appointment, Igneous and Cloudy thanked Mrs. Sleet. As they walked down the road to their home, they watched as Pinkamena hopped along, stopping occasionally as she made a snow angel or found something interesting in the snow. She would squeal in delight everytime she caught a snowflake on her tongue, and when they stopped by a store and bought a sled, she was eager to get home and play with her sisters.

They weren't sure what to do about what her teacher had told them. They weren't sure what Pinkamena would want. Things had changed so much from that short meeting, but for now, just for this night, they wouldn't think about it. They wouldn't worry.

They would just let Pinkamena have fun.

"%i%" A Lesson of Magic

"35" Interview with Pinkie

It should have been so simple. I know who I am. I'm Pinkie Pie, harbinger of joy and happiness and smiles. Well, I guess I actually make those more than foretell them, but I can't help that. I just love to see ponies smile. It's what my cutie mark means. Three balloons. See, they're right here on my flank. Standing for my party throwing abilities…or something like that.

Oh, sure, I used to know just exactly what my cutie mark meant. I loved it. I mean, I totally still love it. But it wasn't always my cutie mark. We knew Twily didn't mean to. We knew what she was doing, she had explained it to us. None of us ever thought that would happen. And Twily is totally the smartest of us.

My cutie mark used to be three apples. Bright, shiny, and red. And I had been an Apple, too. I…I don't really remember too much, really. I know I wasn't happy. There were so many things to do, so much responsibility, and it was all mine. I…I just knew I would never find a reason to smile. Like the time just before I got my cutie mark, my other one with the balloons, when Granny Pie had died.

No, no, it wasn't that kinda sad feeling, but it was still sad. Hmm? Oh, yeah, it does make me sad thinking about it. But that's okay. You can't really know how wonderful it is to smile if you've never know what it's like to frown. But only frown in moderation, because frowns aren't the bestest for your heath.

I guess, really, that the happiness I felt when my friends all came to the farm and brought me back to Ponyvilly to cheer me up is when I realized I hadn't had a time to be really frowny for a long time. Oh, well, yeah, Discord totally made me all frowny, but that was different because it wasn't me being all frowny.

It totally does make sense, too. I mean…Oh, okay. Yeah, I'll finish answering your other question. I hadn't really been frowny in a long time. Not since I thought my friends all hated me.

Oh, that? See, they were planning a surprise party, so they were all avoiding me. It made me feel really bad. I didn't understand what I had done to make them hate me. It made me think really bad thoughts.

Like, what if they didn't really like me, like…ever. What if they only kept me around because, you know…element of laughter. What if whenever they said things about me that I thought were because they were my friends were actually because they hated me and wanted me to leave.

That…that wasn't a pretty day. No, I don't want to talk about it. Yes, I'm sure.

After? Oh, well, they were totally throwing me the bestest, surprisingest of surprise parties ever in the whole of party history or future. I think they were scared for me after that, though. Maybe I shouldn't have let Dashie see my other friends.

No…I don't want to talk about them either.

Hmph. That isn't very nice to say. I'm giving you an interview and you have to go and be a meanie beanie bo deanie. Yes, I'm mad at you. You shouldn't have said that. I do not need to share a room with Screw Loose.

Well, if you say you're sorry…

Oh, you have an appointment with Twily now? Really? Can I stay? Oh, okay. I see.

Hi Twilight! Yeah, I'm totally just leaving because it's your turn but he says we can totally do an interview as a group later.

Yeah, I know! Don't let him say mean things to you though.

Oh, nothing. He said he was sorry. Oh! But I gotta go now and get the 'Elements of Harmony First Interview" party ready! I mean, three years in the making.

Okie dokie lokie!

"%i%" Nightmare Moon

"36" A Lesson of Magic

Twilight breathed in deeply. She had faced down terrors. She had faced down many forms of evil, from the nearly benign form of chaos, to the Changeling Queen. Still, at this point, what she faced seemed even more ferocious, more terrifying, more gruesome than anything she had ever had to face.

Magic kindergarten.

She didn’t understand why she was going to speak to the class. True, she was the element of magic, and it was magical kindergarten, but still, it was kindergarten. These foals weren’t going to listen to what she said for more than thirty seconds before their minds strayed.

She remembered her own time in magic kindergarten. Ponies always laughing. Making fun of her. Calling her names. Never letting her play with them. It wasn’t a great time.

No, she had decided long ago magic kindergarten was a form of Tartarus in Equestria.

Still, she knew her short speech and the simple tricks she would show them by heart. Moving her hoof away from her chest and breathing out, she opened the door and stepped into the classroom.

"Hello, everypony," she greeted with a smile. “I’m Twilight Sparkle. I’m here to talk to you about magic, since that is my special talent." She paused for a second, looking around the room. At this age, everyone wanted to impress the teacher, but one little filly caught her eye. It wasn’t the light pink of her coat, or the silvery-white of her mane, but her posture. While the other foals were sitting ip straight, eager to hear what She said for the moment, the filly’s head was pointed down, not looking up, and Twilight could tell she was reading.

"So, what does a cutie mark in magic mean? Well, I’m sure it can mean a lot of things. It is a rare special talent to have, and often ponies talents lie in specialized areas of magic, like showponies or illusionist." Twilight kept talking, though the filly didn’t even flinch as Twilight started walking around the room.

She stopped just behind the filly, who was so engrossed in the book she didn’t notice. “So, I will demonstrate so simple spells I can do. As I’m sure you all know, unicorns magic only help their talent. But there are a few things every unicorn can do, such as levitation.” As she said the last word, she reached out with her magic and pulled the book from the filly’s grasp.

"Hey, that’s—oh." Her expression switched from angered to fearful in seconds. “I-I-I…"

One of the colts nearby laughed loudly, pointing at the filly. She shrunk in her seat, narrowing her eyes at the floor. Twilight thought she saw a hint of tears in the filly’s eyes. Oh, no, Twilight thought. She looked at the book, noticing at once it was a textbook that was second grade level, at least.

"Oh, I remember this book." Twilight smiled at the filly. “What’s your name?"

"A-Aurora D-D-Dust, ma’am," she stammered out.

She heard one of the classmates whisper something, she couldn’t understand, but the whisper spread from filly to colt until the entire room was laughing again.

"Now, everypony, is that anyway to treat a friend?" Twilight asked the class.

"She isn’t our friend." “She’s a freak." “All she does is read and talk to the teachers." “She’s weird."

"Hey," Twilight said forcefully. “Is that anyway to talk about another pony?" Her mind returned to her own magic kindergarten. No pony had been their to defend her. She wouldn’t have told Celestia or any of the other teachers, for fear it was something she was doing wrong.

"Do you know what the end of my lesson is, little ponies? Magic, whether it’s a special talent like mine, or just something to help your cutie mark like many unicorns, is great. But I, along with some other ponies, have found a much stronger magic than that. I didn’t have friends before I moved to Ponyville-" she paused as gasps and small exclamations of how ‘cool’ or ‘awesome’ she was came from the foals, “but, that changed. I met some people who thought I was weird. I like books. I’m a librarian. Someponies may think that’s boring, but my friends have found that by accepting my differences from them, we have so much fun together." Twilight smiled as the faces of her six friends flashed in her minds eyes. “Another unicorn, two pegasi, and two earth ponies have found a magic that we wouldn’t trade for anything…even chocolate rain." Again, gasps from the foals.

-time-

"What is that?" Aurora asked, eyes wide.

"The magic of friendship." Twilight was silent for a moment, letting her words sink in. “And I know all of you, each and every single one of you, are can do this magic right now. Because this magic is special. It only gets stronger if you’re nice to each other, if you’re friends with one another."

A few of the foals looked down, a few looked over at Aurora or other classmates, and a few just continued to look at Twilight. “So, who’s willing to give the magic of friendship more power?” Every foal raised a hoof. “We’ll then, I think it’s playtime.”

Two filly’s ran over to Aurora as what Twilight said registered in their brains. “Hey, Aurora, we’re sorry we were mean to you.”

"Yeah, and you’re really good at magic, so you gotta be like super duper good at friendship, right?"

"I-I don’t know. I’ve never had friends," Aurora said.

"We’ll, that’s okay. We can be friends. Come play with us."

Aurora looked up, her expression guarded. From behind the fillies, Twilight nodded. “We’ll, okay. What do you want to play?”

As the fillies ran off together, the teacher walked up to Twilight. “You know, I nearly stopped you when they started making fun of her. I’m glad I didn’t.”

"I’m glad you didn’t either." They watched the foals play for a moment before realizing something. “Oh," she said with a sheepish smile, “I guess I sent them to recess early."

"It’s okay. For the change in this classroom, extra playtime is well worth it. Besides, sometimes we learn life’s greatest lessons through play.

Thinking once again of her own friends, Twilight nodded. “Yes, we do.”

"%i%" The Tree

"37" Nightmare Moon

Celestia simply looked at the Trackers. Her sister was on her knees between them, her hands behind her back. “What is the meaning of this?” Celestia demanded. The Trackers looked at one another, neither willing to speak. “Why have you detained Luna?” Celestia’s eyes traveled Luna. The ever-present goggles she wore were gone. The only bit of technology noticeable on the mare was her Link.

Finally, one of the Trackers spoke up. “This is Nightmare Moon.”

Celestia laughed. “Nightmare Moon? Why would she fight against the very system she helped create?”

The Trackers looked at one another again before shaking their heads. The Tracker from before spoke up. “She is Nightmare Moon. Did you not get the alert?”

"Alert?" Celestia asked. Making sure her goggles were connected to her Interface, Celestia scanned through every way the Trackers might have gotten ahold of her. "I have no alert."

"She had hacked through the entire system. She…"

"Leave."

The Trackers turned and walked out the door without looking back. For the first time since entering the room, Luna looked up at her sister.

"Why, Luna?"

Still unable to move from her bindings, Luna defiantly smiled up at her sister. “Because I am Nightmare Moon. I shall rule the empire we have built. As it is, I only control the sleeper cells. But no longer. I shall have it all.”

Celestia’s expression was unreadable as she knelt in front of Luna. “That is where you’re wrong.” Moving slowly, deliberately, so Luna could see exactly what she was doing, she raised a chip. Luna’s eyes widened. “I don’t want to do this, Luna, but you’ve left me no choice. You are trying to destroy everything we’ve built.”

Luna glared at Celestia. “I am not going to destroy it. I shall make it better.”

A look that could have been taken for sadness crossed Celestia’s features. Pushing the chip into Luna’s Link, she frowned. “Sleep well, sister. It’s going to be a long time before you wake.”

"%i%" Cup of the Day

"38" The Tree

Orange, yellow, and brown leaves swirled around the six mares. A picnic blanket was laid out, though most of the food was gone. Instead, the mares were lying on the ground, in what could be called a barely be called a circle.

A white unicorn was busy telling the other five the various pros and cons of making clothing for the three pony types. A soft yellow pegasus listened intently, seeming truly interested. Lying on their stomachs, slightly farther left than the rest of the group, a blue pegasus and orange earth mare were locked in an intense gaze, the unicorns words going unnoticed as they fought to not blink. A little to the right, a purple unicorn and pink earth pony laid on their backs, pointing and whispering about the various shaped found in the clouds above.

The pink one giggled suddenly, causing the white unicorn to look over with a glare. Her grin a bit sheepish, Pinkie shrugged. “Sorry, Rarity. I was just looking at the clouds, and I saw one that looked a bit like you…minus the horn, of course.”

The orange pony laughed at that, her eyes closing for less than a second. “Darn it, Pinkie. Ya made me lose. Though, the thought of Rarity being an Earth pony…” Applejack trailed off, chuckling.

"Please, it wouldn’t be so hard. Earth ponies are the easiest ponies to be."

"Or flying,” the blue pegasus added.

Applejack’s expression turned incredulous. “That’s a bunch a ponyfeathers, an’ y’all know it.”

"Yeah, being earth ponies doesn’t make us easy!" Pinkie exclaimed. The other ponies paused for a moment, glancing at her. "I mean, there is a reason Celestia and Luna and all the other alicorns have all three of our powers, instead of just unicorns and pegasi."

The purple one perked up. “That is true. The Princess taught me all about the different magics each pony race has. Flying and weather manipulation for the pegasi, magic for the unicorns, and a more arcane magic for the earth ponies. That one is grounded in a deeper relationship with—”

"Yeah, yeah, egghead. We don’t need a lecture. Not every moment is a learning moment." Rainbow Dash grinned. She jumped into the air with a powerful beat of her blue wings and flipped upside down, looking at her friends through her rainbow mane. "Besides, everypony knows pegasi are the best. I mean, we make it rain. Literally!"

The yellow pegasus let out a small meep. “I don’t know about that. Maybe we shouldn’t be fighting over which race is the best. We are even, and if we all take our races side, then there is no winner,” she said softly.

"Exactly. Ah ain’t saying earth ponies are the best. Dang, Twi there could probably list all kinds of good and bad things about all of us. Ah’m just saying that earth ponies aren’t an…" she paused, looking for the right word. "Y’all ain’t got it any harder just ‘cause you’ve got wings or horns."

Rarity stood with a huff. “I never said you weren’t a good race, Applejack. I said it was easier because you don’t have the extra skill to master.”

"Skill?" Applejack looked over a Pinkie, who looked back to her. "Alright, we’ll give you skill. Do you know what earth pony magic entails? Any of y’all?" At Twilight’s raised hoof, she sighed. "Anyone not the genius in our group?" No other hands raised. "Earth ponies have a special connection to the land, to the plants and the rocks and the dirt. It’s hard ta explain properly, but when your hoof hits soil, you know what crops you can grow in it. An earth pony can sense where the best rock is; what might hold the most coal or metal or gems. It’s somethin’ special. We don’t talk about it much, it ain’t something you can see." A small grin spread across Applejacks face. "Really, though, there is one thing we can do that none of y’all could if ya tried."

"What’s that?" Pinkie said, mesmerized.

After another round of everypony looking at her, Applejack shook her head. “Pinkie, wanna uproot a tree?”

"Oh, but I have a stash of mushtashes in that oak," Pinkie said. "We can’t knock that one down."

"Why…ya know what, nevermind. How about that sycamore, then?"

As the group approached the tree, Dash flew to the front. “Wait a minute. Maybe it’s just that two ponies can knock this tree over.”

Pinkie giggled. “Of couse not, silly. The roots are too firm in the ground to just knock it over. I mean, it they all aren’t like the little curly one in the center.” Placing her hoof on the tree for a moment, she nodded. “It’s going to split right around here,” she said, her hoof drawing a line around the trunk of the tree. “I mean, you guys could totally try it. Oh, it can be a competition. And then we can all go back to Sugar Cube Corner for ice cream!” Pinkie grinned.

-time-

Rainbow Dash snorted. “Whatever. Come on Fluttershy, let’s try this.”

Fluttershy hid her face behind her main. “Umm…no. I don’t want to hurt the tree.”

Dragging Fluttershy within bucking distance of the tree, Dash sighed. “Please, Fluttershy. Please? On the count of three, okay? One…Two…Three!” With a mighty roar, Dash kicked out with her back legs as hard as she could. A loud thump was heard, but nothing more. Fluttershy’s blow landed less than a second later, with a tap so light it made no sound.

After taking a second to make sure the tree wasn’t going to fall, Fluttershy rushed to it. “I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to hurt you.”

Dash dragged her way with a expressionless look.

The other four ponies look at Twilight and Rarity. “Oh, I guess it’s our turn. We’re just supposed to buck it?”

"Do whatever ya want, Twi. But it has to come down with a buck, yeah."

Twilight’s horn glowed, revealing every part of the tree in a deep purple shimmer. “Wow, it’s roots are deep. That’s at least fifteen or twenty feet. That’s amazing, Pinkie. There’s that curley root you were talking about.”

"Well, duh. Of course it’s there. Why else would the tree’s name be Curley?"

Ignoring the comment, Twilight glanced over at Rarity with an unsure smile.

"This is most unlady like, I assure you. But since this seems to be proving a point, I will participate."

After examining the tree with her magic, Twilight put Rarity in a spot and told her where to kick, then lined herself up with a spot three paces away. After a nod from Twilight, the mares kicked out at the same time. A loud crack sounded, and the unicorns turned around quickly, only to see some bark fall away.

"Maybe we cracked it?" Rarity suggested.

Lighting the tree up again, Tight sighed. “No, it was only the bark.”

"Ready, Pinkie?" Applejack asked.

Pinkie grinned and hopped over to the tree and turned. “Oh my gosh, I haven’t done this in forever. Like…since we were helping with applebuck season. Oh, are we going now?” She looked over at Applejack, who nodded. “Okay then.”

As one, they lifted their back hooves and kicked out. The sound of splintering wood sounded through the park as the tree fell over.

"Oh, my, the poor tree." Fluttershy looked down.

"It’s okay, Fluttershy. This was Curley’s last summer. He wasn’t going to bloom anymore anyway. This way, he didn’t have to go through winter."

"How did…but…we softened it for you!" Dash exclaimed.

"Actually, you saw the examination of the tree. It was fine," Twilight replied.

"And look, I knew it was going to crack there! I totally knew it." Grinning, Pinkie looked at her friends. "Now, I say we go get ice cream." Without looking back at her friends, she bounced along the path that would take them to Sugar Cube Corner. With a shrug, Twilight caught up with Pinkie.

"Wanna race?" Dash asked Applejack.

"I dunno…do you really want dust in your mouth when you’re eating your ice cream?" With a smirk, Applejack took off, Dash just behind her.

"I must say, that was all ever so useless. Though I didn’t know earth pony magics extended that far."

As the group came back together at Sugar Cube Corner and into their favorite booth, Twilight looked at Pinkie. “So, does being an earth pony make you better cooks?”

"%i%" Tears

"40" Her Biggest Fan

It was all over the news. When ever she walked by a news stand, people would stare. She couldn't even go into her favorite pubs anymore. Everypony hassled her, wanting to know why she had given up.

Firefly would always shake her head and say it felt right. To those ponies, the ones who called themselves her fans, she had abandoned them. The season had finished. It had been the Wonderbolts best season, and she had left.

"What are you shaking your head about?" A rainbow maned filly asked.

Blinking, Firefly looked around the cafe. This was one of the few places she had found peace in the week since the announcement, and so it was where she and her family were eating dinner.

"Oh, I was thinking about the Wonderbolts. Eat your brussels, Rainbow." While Rainbow ate her food, Firefly looked over to her husband, Spectrum. He flashed her a smile, placing a hood comfortingly on hers.

"These are gross. You know I hate them." Scowling at the offending food, Rainbow sighed. "Why'd you make me get them?"

"They help the muscles in your wings. You do want to keep your title as fastest filly at flight school, don't you?"

Rainbow's eyes widened. "Of course. I'll never be a Wonderbolt if I'm not fast." With that, Rainbow shoveled several in her mouth.

"You still want to be a Wonderbolt?" Spectrum asked. "You aren't going to leave your moms path and follow mine?"

Rainbow looked up, shaking her head. "No way. Wonderbolts are the best fliers. They get to do so much cool stuff. And weather teams...don't."

Firefly smiled. Her fans might have felt like she had abandoned them, but she wouldn't abandon her biggest fan.

"%i%" Lost

"1" Lost

Deep green, rough brown, and cold grey surrounded her. She knew trips into the Everfree were dangerous, but she had wanted to see that Zebracian pony about some flowers. Now she was lost. She was in the Everfree with no clue which way the exit was, and she had been wondering for hours. Every time she thought was close to leaving the forest, she was met with just more trees.

She remembered the rumors from town, about the wild animals that live in the forest. Cockatrices', wraiths, maybe even dragons...She shivered. She did not want to be in the forest any longer than she had too. She should have asked somepony for directions, but she had thought it would be simple. Just stick to the path, and she would find the hut.

Of course, that was before a plant had caught her interest. Then she had found more, and wandered along until she didn't know how to get back to the path. She had felt foolish once she realized the flowers were simply modified poison joke.

It seemed the joke was on her now. It was nearly dusk. She knew she wasn't too deep into the forest, since she could still clearly see the sky through the canopy of trees. But she jumped at every nose, even though it was normally just a rabbit or fox.

A howl sounded in the distance, piercing and cold. She stopped, listening, as more sounded, closer to her. Her pulse sped up as she moved faster through the foliage. She didn't notice as it became easier to gallop, or when the trees thinned out. The howls were increasing, and coming closer.

Then she broke into a clearing. The first of the night stars twinkled down from a deep purple sky. She glanced around the glade, hoping against hope there would be somewhere to hide...and there it was.

A mine shaft.

It was perfect. She galloped full force into the opening, crawling through the narrow entrance. She didn't care about the dirt on her coat or in her mane, only about outrunning the howls. After a few feet, the space opened up some, though it was too dark for her to see. Panting, she leaned against the wall of the opening. She could still hear the howls, but they were muffled now.

Feeling safe, she began to calm down. She blinked a few times as her eyes slowly adjusted to what little light made it into the cave. She expected wooden beams and signs of a hoof-made cave, but instead she was greeted by the sight of several small bear-like animals whose fur looked like various constellations in the night sky. She squeezed her eyes shut, willing the Ursa cubs to be a figment of her imagination.

She realized upon opening her eyes that they weren't. The cubs were small, too small to be Ursa minor's yet. The mother wouldn't be far, and if she were there when the mother came home...

She decided she would rather chance it with the timberwolves. As silently as possible, she stood to her hooves and turned toward the exit, only to see the Mother Ursa staring at her. For what felt like the trillionth time that day, fear flooded through her veins. The bear didn't look angry yet, but she still remembered the Ursa Minor attack on the town a few months ago. Just because the animal wasn't angry didn't mean it couldn't do damage.

She closed her eyes and breathed deeply, trying to calm her heart rate. She had heard that animals could smell fear and would attack because of it. She didn't calm herself as much as she would have liked, but at least now she wasn't trembling.

She barely resisted flinching when the Ursa Major moved. The huge bear kept an eye on her as it walked over to it's cubs and laid down. She stared at it, as it stared at her. Slowly, she took a step forward. The Ursa watched, but did nothing to stop her. She took another, and then another, and soon she was through the tight opening and out of the cave.

Once she made it back to the tree line, she ran as hard as she could away from the cave. The bear could still change it's mind and decide it wanted her for a midnight snack. Once she had made a suitable distance, she stopped to catch her breath.

She was fighting back tears now. She was lost with no clue how to get out of the forest. Crying wouldn't help anything, but she couldn't stop the emotions from overwhelming her. Fear, relief, worry, hunger--everything crashed down on her.

She didn't bother with keeping quiet. If anything wanted to attack her, it would have been easy to hear the sound of her fleeing from the Ursa den. What had she done to deserve this? Why had nopony been searching for her? Where were her friends and the caring townsfolk? Surely, she would have heard them on their search.

She was starting to calm down some now, anger replacing the tears, until a twig snapping made her look around, fearful again. She shrank back against a tree, watching the direction the noise had came from.

A small light appeared to be bobbing toward her. She held her breath, terrified of what it strange creature could have a light. She hid in the shadows, watching as the creature came closer and closer until she could see how it was making the light.

It was a lantern. Standing before her was the pony she had came searching for early that morning. The striped pony looked around, as if searching for something.

Grinning, she ran out from the cover of shadow and tree. She could not believe she had been saved, this day was finally over. She could go home and eat and sleep in her warm, comfortable bed, protected from the frights of the forest.

Finally, she was found.

"%i%" End of an Era

"2" End of an Era

Looking at the paper in my hooves, I shuddered. Twilight Sparkle Arrested for Treason. The five of us were the only ponies in all of Equestria who knew how she had done it. Of course, we agreed with her. The deceit for thousands of years led the six of us to a unanimous decision. Rainbow Dash had taken being permanently grounded hard, but she had survived.

The trial was due to start in any second now. Princesses Celestia and Luna walked in, taking their seats on the judgment thrones. How I had revered the two of them. Trusted them. We all had. It should have been them on trial, not Twilight. She had done the right thing.

My eyes flick over to her. Her purple coat, normally well kept, is grimy. She had been kept in the dungeon for a week. Her normally meticulously straight mane is frizzy and sticking up in places. I realize they want her to look unstable. I glare at the Princesses. I still don't understand why the five of us haven't been arrested yet, I suppose I should be thankful, but I'm afraid for Twilight.

The 'states' lawyer steps out from behind the table he is sitting at and clears his throat. Normally I like everypony, but I didn't like him. The stallion's gleaming golden coat reflected the Celestia's sunlight.

I had to hold in a snort. It isn't Celestia's anymore.

Twilight had been locked away in her library for nearly a month researching an amazing breakthrough, or so she kept telling us. The day she wandered into Sugar Cube Corner with the stunned look on her face was just the beginning. "It's all a lie," she said. She looked lost, as if her world had just been ripped from underneath her. "It's all a lie."

"What's all a lie, Twi?" Applejack had asked.

Twilight turned her head to look at Applejack, almost as if seeing the farm pony for the first time. She shook her head. "Meet me in the library, in my lab." She turned and walked off. I looked at my other four friends, who looked as confused as I felt. Our eyes met as we chased after her.

The stallion's name was Golden Law. After addressing the princesses, he called Twilight to the stand. She walked up and sat in the small booth, terrified eyes looking out over the crowd. "Do you deny removing magic from all of Equestria?"

She shook her head. "No."

"So you are guilty of treason?"

She opened her mouth to speak, but the lawyer Celestia had appointed her stood. "Princess, if I may, I would like to present some information about my client before she is questioned further." With a nearly imperceptible smile, Celestia nodded. Twilight's lawyer, Firm Rule, moved to the front of the room, while Golden Law sat back down. "My client would like to file mental instability."

My brow furrowed. That would certainly get her a lighter sentence, but she would be in an asylum for the rest of her life. The realization slowly came to me. That's what Celestia wanted. If Twilight was insane, her claims wouldn't be thought of again. If she was simply found innocent or guilty, the truth of what she said would hang around. I watched Celestia's face carefully. Maybe she didn't want Twilight to have the death sentence. She had practically raised her.

"There are several instances where Twilight Sparkle has shown signs of mental instability. In one, she charmed a stuffed doll so that everypony in her town wanted it." Firm Rule showed pictures of what we called the 'Smarty-Pants Incident.' She went on with a couple more examples before turning to Twilight. "Do you deny that any of this happened."

"No, but-"

"You see, she has a history of mental instability."

Movement to my left caught my eye. "Twi isn't insane. If anything it's the ponies who don't believe her. It's been a week, hasn't it? And we all haven't died yet." Dash's magenta eyes looked hard at the Princesses. "Just tell the truth." The guards grabbed her by her wings and pulled her out of the courtroom. She remained silent, opting to simply glare at the two royal figures.

We all looked at her. She couldn't be serious. There was no way this was the truth. And yet, the truth was in front of us, plain as day.

"You want to remove all magic from Equestria? But Twi…you love magic. Ah know you think this is right, but maybe you should think on it." Applejack looked uncertain.

Twilights hoof came down hard on the floor. "I have thought about it. I just…"she took a few deep breaths. "There is no other way."

"What about Pegasi in clouds or flying? They'll fall and die." Dash shook her head. "You can't just do that."

"I've modified the spell. It's going to take a lot of energy, but they'll have enough residual magic left to make it to the ground. Magic will slowly fade over an hour, forcing them to fly lower." She swallowed. "I'm sorry. I just don't see another way."

"I agree with you, Twilight." We all glanced over at Rarity. "This has to come out."

Beside her, Fluttershy nodded. "Yes. Even if it means changing our world, it is best for the truth to be known." She looked at the floor. "I will have to stop caring for all my animals. The protective barriers I had placed around my cottage will come down, and all sorts of bad creatures will come out."

"You have magical barriers around your cottage?" I asked. Everyone looked at me. I hadn't said a word the entire time, which was unusual. Fluttershy nodded.

Twilight looked at me. "Are you okay with this, Pinkie?"

"No," I said. Everyone looked shocked. "Celestia and Luna have been lying to us for centuries. Celestia raises the sun, Luna raises the moon. It's a fact everypony knows. Only they don't actually do that? I mean, how could they have lied to us. They could have told the truth and still been our Princesses." Out of habit, I moved my hoof to push my curly mane out of my eyes. "What?" I asked when they all gave me shocked looks.

"I guess this is it then," Twilight said. "You can leave if you want." Naturally, none of us moved. We were all in this together. After a moment's pause, she started powering up her horn. I had never seen it like that. It started out the normal pinky-purple color, but lighted to white, growing brighter and brighter until…

Darkness.

The sun had risen and the moon had set, just as they had for thousands of year. And yet, no one had magic. The proof was there and yet no one wanted to see it. I toss my head to the side, moving the silky straight mane out of my eyes. It was hard, even as an earth pony, to get used to not having magic. No one knew what the weather was going to be like anymore. Equestria was quickly changing.

The lawyers prattle on. It's like watching a comedy play, only this is real. Golden Law starts the questions, and Firm Rule uses them to prove Twilight is insane. It's obvious to anyone with eyes they are working together.

Finally, I stand and walk to the front. All eyes are on me. I bow to the Princess, who gives me a wary look. "If I may, Princess, I would like to say something." The guards are ready to cart me off like they did Dash, but Celestia stops them.

"Pinkie Pie, what do you wish to say."

My heart is pounding as I look to Twilight. "In all the years you've known Twilight Sparkle, you have taught her to be a brilliant pony. She thought she found something that changed our world and acted on impulse. It is very easy to prove she was wrong. Just set the sun and raise the moon."

I look over at Twilight, see her smile, and know whatever happens, whatever comes, Equestria will never be the same. I know what she did, what we decided, was right.

The Age of Magic was over.

"%i%" Precious

"5" Precious

Precious.

It was easy to see what Rarity valued. Gems. Fashion. High Society. Grandeur beyond belief. That was what she lived for—what she thrived for. It was apparent in the way she carried herself, in the meticulous way she cared for her coat, mane, and hooves. Everypony knew Rarity was going to be a very important somepony one day.

If she could ever find the will to break free of what kept her where she was. Many ponies thought that maybe her friends kept her in Ponyville when she could have galloped off to Canterlot. It was partially true. She didn't want to leave her friends. Not when they meant so much to her. Not when the believed in her as they did.

Some ponies thought it was the young dragon whose heart she had captured. Indeed, it would hurt her to leave her little 'Spikey-Wikey'. He was beginning to outgrow his crush now, and they were becoming close friends. But were it just these reasons, she would have left.

No, she thought to herself as she watched a motor-powered scooter whip out of sight, I could leave all that in time. Not this instant, but in time.

Though the one true reason Rarity couldn't leave Ponyville didn't know it, she was the reason. Her antics annoyed Rarity to no end. She was constantly causing trouble and bursting in unannounced. And though she complained, Rarity wouldn't have it any other way. No, she was too fond of all of those things. Or perhaps, just the pony providing them. After all, this was the most important somepony in Rarity's life.

Sweetie Belle.

"%i%" The Hardest Part

"10" Yes

Pinkie looked into Fluttershy's hopeful eyes. It would make her friend so happy to say yes. Just those three little letters, even a nod, and Fluttershy would be filled with joy. It would be so easy to do. The word wanted to burst from her mouth, but she held back. She wanted to say yes, but…

Could she do it? Could she really do it? It was a big step, after all. She wouldn't be able to just run about as she liked to do. She would have to make time for this other life that would be so important to her. Was she ready for something like this? Something that would change her life forever.

Someone could get hurt. What if she wasn't attentive enough? What if she agreed and then found it wasn't really what she wanted? She didn't want anyone to feel sad or hurt. It wouldn't be fair to anyone. If she said no, then it all ended here. Sure, there would be some hurt, but not like it could be.

What about the Cakes? Would they care? It would affect them to, after all. Mrs. Cake probably would not like it at all. Mr. Cake she could convince it was a good idea, but Mrs. Cake was a tough cookie. Pinkie was sure she would come around with time, though.

Pinkie sighed. She wasn't sure what to say. She wanted to say yes. She wanted to say yes more than she wanted anything at that moment. Yet as much as the word was ready to fly from her mouth, her lips held firm against it. This wasn't something she could answer lightly.

If she said yes, what was the worst that could happen? The Cakes wouldn't like it at first, but she was certain that would change. She would have to be more responsible, but that was okay. She could do that. She grinned as she made up her mind.

"Yes."

Fluttershy smiled one of the smiles Pinkie loved so much, one of the wide ones that made her eyes light up. "Really? Oh, Pinkie, thank you!"

Pinkie giggled. "I mean, sure, a pet is a lot of responsibility, but I think I can handle it." She looked down at the small alligator that was looking up at her. "Right, Gummy? We're going to have lots of fun."

"I'm just glad you wanted him. Little guy isn't going to get any teeth it seems. I found him all alone. He eats a very…special diet, so if you'll follow me to the kitchen, I'll show you how to make his food."

Pinkie smiled at the alligator on her way to Sugar Cube Corner. She would have to tell the Cakes why she had a special blender and Gryphon food, but since Gummy was harmless she felt positive they would love him as much as she already did.

She felt his mouth clamp down on her fuzzy hair. "Gummy, I think this is the start of a beautiful life together." Giggling, Pinkie continued hopping down cobblestone road of Ponyville with her new pet.

"%i%" Four Words

"14" Rules

You’ve always been special to me. I don’t think I ever really told you. I didn’t really know how to tell you. I knew how to tell you other things, though, didn’t I? I told you how to find things in your library. You were always changing the ordering system or reorganizing it for some reason. I guess you didn’t like the alphabetical way for the public library. I know your personal library was done that way. Remember that time you let me read Wonderland?

No, no, that isn’t what this letter is about. You were always telling me to focus, remember? You were patient with me though. You put up with my hyperactivity a lot better than most ponies. I remember when you taught me that word. And I remember when you gave me coffee. I though Mrs. Cake was going to die, but it made me feel less…like moving? You knew it would, too. You said certain amounts of caffeine would be good for me.

I’m sorry I keep getting sidetracked. I know you probably don’t have a lot of time. I just don’t know how to say this. You could help me. You’re amazing at words. I thought I knew lots of them, but you know like every word ever! But you always liked my made up words too. I remember how happy I was when you said nervicted.

Okay, I’m not doing a very good job of this. I know it doesn’t matter. I can’t make a difference in the world. But I love you. I love you so much. And not just in the you’re-my-best-friend kinda way. I mean, you are totally my bestest friend…

Sorry. I’m trying to do this properly. I even checked out books to help me write a more formally letter. I guess it’s going okay. I actually checked out a book that wasn’t fiction! This isn’t working.

I like you like a whole bunch. Like, think about how much you love the other girls and the princesses and your family and equestrian and books and magic and all that totally stuff-you-like stuff and then multiply it by like a bazillion and that might be just an itty bitty smidgy of how much I love you. You are totally like cutest, funniest, funest, most bestest mare in all of Equestria and I love you.

But you’re also the most princessiest princess in ever too. And I’m not and I’ve read all the stories and I know the rules. So maybe I shouldn’t send this but I am because I hate not telling you so now I am.

Umm…so yeah. Don’t like write back or anything. It’s okay.

Pinkie

You silly filly. What rules? I’m a princess, remember? I can decide who I love.

I choose you.

Twilight

"%i%" Old Mother

"16" Cape and Hat

Twilight picked up the purple cape sprinkled with blue stars and moons. As she tied it on, she knew what she was. She knew what she could do. She was the most powerful being in existence. There was no one else like her. There was no one to challenge her.

She was powerful. She could do anything she wanted. She would do anything she wanted. She could squash leaders. She could crumble nations. She could start a new world, ruled by her, where everything was nice and orderly. Where everything was to her specifications. Where everything was perfect.

She was great. She could do things nopony else had done. Who else could have defeated an all powerful alicorn turned evil? Who else could have figured out the Changeling invasion? Who else could have defeated the living figure of the most evil of evils…chaos?

Yes, she was powerful. Yes, she was great. If nothing else, the hat and cape proved it. She was an insurmountable force. She was the savior of the world. She was…

"What are you doing, Twilight?" a voice came from behind her as the light to the room flicked on.

Twilight turned quickly, eyes wide like a filly caught stealing a cookie. “I…um…" Clearing her throat, she looked to the mare who had questioned her. Head held high, voice stronger, she said, “I am Twilight, the Great and Powerful!" She tried sweeping the cape around, like the superhero’s on the comics Spike read, but tripped over the cape instead.

The hat fell down over her eyes, leaving her in darkness. She sighed.

The other mare giggled. Twilight heard hoofsteps, and then somepony was lifting the hat. She looked up into eyes of light purple. The mare’s white hair mixed with Twilight’s own purple. “It’s cute. Your bravado was spot on, but we really need to work on your show. Tripping up won’t get you anywhere."

"I didn’t actually mean for you to see," she said quietly.

Trixie smiled and shook her head. “Like I said, it was cute. Especially since it’s you." Closing what was left of the gap between them, Trixie pressed her lips to Twilight’s. “You’ll always be great and powerful to me."

"%i%" Confession

"21" Happy Birthday

Twilight wasn’t sure how she and Pinkie had ended up in their current position. Or maybe the better phrasing was why. She could recall the events prior perfectly. Her birthday party had ended and she was helping Pinkie take down the last of the decorations when she had tripped down the stairs, knocking into Pinkie. They had rolled a bit, and now she was on top of Pinkie.

Her front hooves were on either side of Pinkie’s torso as she looked down. Anything she had wanted to say left her mind as she looked into Pinkie’s eyes. She was certain she should move. Pinkie would ask her to any second now. A pink hoof reached up and touched her cheek, slowly moving toward her chin before dropping from her face.

Pinkie’s face was slightly flushed. Her curly mane fell away from her face in a way it never did when she was standing. Her smile wasn’t the enormous face splitting kind she normally wore, but it was one of the most genuine Twilight had ever seen her with. Finally, Twilight was caught in Pinkie’s eyes, the deep blue seeming to draw Twilight down slowly. She didn’t take her gaze away from Pinkie’s as the gap between them closed.

Twilight’s breathing increased as she drew closer. Her heart was beating rapidly against her chest. Her eyes seemed to shut on their own as her lips pressed against Pinkie’s. She felt as though her heart would burst from her chest, even as she felt Pinkie’s beating.

A pair of hooves wrapped around her, pulling her closer to Pinkie. Their lips moved together as if they had danced like that a thousand times, though this was their first meeting. Twilight felt a hoof stroke up and down her back as their movements quickened.

Twilight had one hoof behind Pinkie’s head, pulling her as close as the two ponies could get. She heard Pinkie’s ragged breaths when their lips parted, only to be silenced by crashing together again. Twilight ran a hoof through Pinkie’s mess of curls as their pace slowed.

Finally, Twilight pulled fully away and moved to lay next to Pinkie. Facing each other, panting heavily, they simply smiled at each other.

"Happy Birthday, Twilight."

"%i%" Twilight's Mother

"27" Only One

The loud bass seemed to vibrate the very foundation of Sugarcube Corner. Pinkie smiled and looked over the crowd as she made her rounds. So many ponies were packed into the basement that there wasn’t much room to move, but she was okay with that. The feeling of bodies pressing in on her, the loud chatter as ponies tried to talk above the music, shoed hooves clip-cloping on the cement floor, it all made her feel better. Closer.

Not that it helped much. Sure, everypony talked to her, thanked her for the party, but none of them really were there for her. No, most of the ponies here were going to leave once everything died down, empty words of thanks on their lips, not giving Pinkie a passing thought. She kept the smile plastered to her face, even as she realized she wasn’t finding what she had hoped this party would provide.

She stood by the door as everyone filed out. Her best friends were the last to leave, but they still did. She knew they meant what they said, she knew they cared for her, she knew that if she said anything at all they would stay until she felt better.

But she couldn’t ask them to do that. She sighed as she bade her last farewells to the four ponies. Furrowing her brows in confusion, she counted again. No, she hadn’t been mistaken…had Twilight left without even saying goodbye? She trudged back to the basement, intending to clean up, but stopped just inside the doorway.

Twilight sat in the middle of the room, a small smile on her face. A small pack was hanging from her mouth, and she already had a sleeping cap on. When Pinkie didn’t say anything, Twilight sat the pack down and smiled again. “I thought, maybe, we could have a sleep over? I’ll help you clean up and stuff…"

A true smile slowly crept onto Pinkie’s face. “A sleepover? That’s a great idea!" As she rushed to give Twilight a hug, she realized the emptiness from the party was missing. All the ponies at the party hadn’t made her feel that way, but suddenly, with just Twilight, she felt as if she wasn’t alone anymore.

Sometimes, all it really takes is one good friend.

"%i%" Moving Up

"33" Can I See Him?

"Princess," the small purple filly said as Celestia sat out a book, "What happened to the dragon that hatched on my entrance exam?"

Celestia looked down at her new student. It had been just a week since Celestia had decided to take her for private tutelage. The raw ability the filly had shown was astounding, and Celestia knew she would need an apt teacher. Celestia had expected many things from her youngest student: magical blow-ups, curious questions, the easily distracted nature of those her age.

She hadn't expected the five-years-old filly to be concerned with a creature she had only seen for five minutes.

"Twilight, you remember him? He is well cared for here at the castle. "

Twilight gasped, her eyes widening with excitement. "Could I see him, please, Princess?"

"I...I suppose it wouldn't hurt." Celestia walked to the door and poked her head out, speaking to a guard. Returning to Twilight, she sat. "You must understand, he is very young. He doesn't like loud noises, and he sleeps most of the day. I need you to be very gentle when he comes." She stood when a knock came to the door. "Ah, right on time."

Celestia opened the door, carefully reaching out with her magic and taking the infant dragon. She smiled at Twilight's open-mouthed amazement as she brought him closer.

"Does he have a name?" Twilight whispered, though he was looking at her with wide green eyes. Tentatively, she reached out a hoof a stroked his head.

"His name is Spike," Celestia said with a warm smile.

"He isn't slimed," Twilight commented. She petted his head a few more times before looking up at Celestia. "He's really cute. Are you going to keep him?"

Looking from Spike to Twilight, Celestia nodded. "We'll, yes. He will need someone to care for him while he grows up. Some one to teach him to speak and be a proper part of Equestria."

"So...he isn't like a puppy?" Twilight scrunched her face up and tilted her head, confused.

"Dragons aren't pets, Twilight. They are sentient beings, with thoughts and speech and feelings just like ponies."

"Oh, okay," Twilight said with a nod. Then she looked up at Celestia. "Princess, what does 'sentient' mean?"

With a smile, Celestia put the now sleeping baby dragon on a cushion. "With that question, I do believe it is time to start our lesson." As Twilight located and read the word in a dictionary, Celestia's looked at the baby dragon and little filly now in her care, and her smile grew.

"%i%" Her Biggest Fan

"39" Cup of the Day

Cup Cake yawned as she woke. Carrot lay beside her, wrapped tightly in the blanket they used at night. She smiled when he mumbled something, still in a deep sleep. Her smile grew as she noticed the damp patch on the pillow bellow him where he had drooled.

Tearing her gaze from him, she stood. There was no noise, so either Pinkie was out and about already, or more likely still asleep. Pinkie didn’t like leaving before she could tell the twins goodbye.

Cup glanced out the window at the rising sun for just a second before going to the twins room. Pound and Pumpkin were sound asleep in their cribs. Pound’s wings twitched occasionally as he dreamed. She leaned down and gently placed a kiss on each of their heads.

Assured her youngest children were safe, she continued down the hallway to Pinkie’s room. As quietly as she could, she opened the door. Pinkie’s blanket was next to the window and her sheet next to the bedroom door. Pinkie herself was laying across the short side of the bed, her head dangling off the side. With a smile, Cup adjusted Pinkie’s position so that her entire body was on the bed and placed the sheet back over her.

She moved down into the shop, turning the ovens and stoves on and getting out the ingredients for their morning run. She had just put the last batch of scones in the oven when she heard one, then both, of the twins start to cry. The hoof steps above told her Pinkie was awake and getting the twins, while Carrot got ready to help her bake in the kitchen.

By the time seven chimed on the clock a second time, Sugarcube Corner was a mess. Not five minutes later, Derpy Hooves came in to order her usual bran muffin before her mail run.

Derpy’s departure began a whirlwind of customers. Pinkie came down to work the till, Carrot was working the breakfast food, and she was constantly baking muffins, cupcakes, scones, and various other goods they served at breakfast.

After only an hours reprieve, ponies came in looking for lunch. By the time seven chimed on the clock, Sugar Cube Corner was a mess. She, along with Pinkie and Carrot, began cleaning.

Then it was time for the twins baths, bedtime stories, and bed. After Pinkie and Carrot, she took a quick shower in the barely warm water left.

Eleven saw her crawl into bed, her eyes drifting shut of their own accord. She mumbled a quick I love you to Carrot before she fell asleep.

Cup Cake yawned as she woke. Carrot lay beside her, wrapped tightly in the blanket they used at night.