Chapter 1 (Dark Crystal)

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So many things to learn... True pretty much all the time but when you’re expecting a new baby... A foal! Well I had no experience, no idea what to expect. Shimmer, Prism and what small part I had bringing them into this world notwithstanding...

But this was going to be my child! My son or daughter! I needed to know more. Thankfully we did have some books on the subject and we found a few more as well there were other ponies that were more then happy to lend. I learned a lot, pony and human pregnancies weren't so different.

A typical human pregnancy was around nine months and that was about all I knew about human pregnancies, a pony one was closer to eleven months. She was likely to start 'showing' around seven months.

The differences between human babies and foals were quite staggering though. On Earth a foal might be up and moving around on its own hooves an hour or sooner after being born a necessity from the time they were prey to other animals, considerably longer for a human baby of course. Here in Equestria the process was quite a bit different, after birth the foal is more like a human baby needing attention and supervision but after approximately a month they were up and galloping around on their own four hooves as opposed to a human infant who takes a much longer time to develop.

Then things get even stranger, a foal grows slowly for the first few years eventually reaching the size of the Crusaders at about four to five. Then strangely the growth process seems to slow down greatly until around ten when again most fillies and colts hit another growth spurt heading into adolescence… I guess it wasn’t too different from human children.

There were plenty of theories about why the young fillies and colts took so long to grow but the prevailing one at least was that it gave them time to adjust, learn and discover their cutie marks, an essential part of Equestrian society.

A rite of passage as it was, sometimes a filly or colts special talent didn't even affect their chosen career, there were a few ponies around town like that. Heck even Pinkie and Dash, granted Pinkie's cutie mark certainly fit in with what she liked to do in her spare time and even though Dash worked as a weather pony her ultimate goal was to be a Wonderbolt so her cutie mark fit that to a tee too... I wondered, did the cutie mark shape the ponies life or did the way they lived their life shape it...?

No clue, but I was going to have a great deal of first hand experience with the whole process... And I couldn't wait.

Time passed as it always does and soon it was mid spring, we tried with varying success to get back to a somewhat normal schedule. Admittedly Twilight and I spent more then a fair share of time on research and talking about foals and parenthood but Trixie still managed to pull Twilight away to further explore magic and I too stepped up my studies especially in the area of healing. Not that I had any doubt in the Ponyville hospitals baby delivering abilities, I just wanted to be one hundred percent sure.

Scootaloo too kept us busy and distracted; I tried my best to make sure to spend time with her whenever I could. I knew even when Twilight began to show she would be getting even more attention from everyone including myself and when the foal was born... I just wanted to make sure she knew she was as big a part of this family as anyone. Twilight too spent time with her helping her with her homework and including her in her research into foals.

Twilight and Cadence sent numerous letters back and forth and Armor and I even exchanged a few, I was curious about just how Equestrian society saw stallions or males in general in my case and child rearing. From what I had seen the stallions and mares seemed to share responsibilities but I knew Twilight had a lot of ponies who depended on her for so much and while I knew she wanted badly to be a mother she also wanted to continue her studies...

Honestly I had no problem taking more responsibility in taking care of our foal, my job afforded me plenty of time and to be honest I really wanted to. I mean... A new life, that I had a part in creating! It was going to be amazing...

Cadence's letters stopped suddenly but she was a Princess and no doubt had responsibilities of her own to attend too so we weren't concerned about it. The next day we were having an early get together with our group of friends when a letter teleported in, Twilight read it quickly then again a look of concern on her face.

"The Princess wants me to come to Canterlot right away... To give me a test!"

She immediately began galloping around the house gathering things she thought she might need, I helped her as well as I could not seeing too much reason to get quite so worried about it.

"Trixie! I'm going to need you to quiz me on everything we've studied! Everything! Ooh... I need more books... And flash cards...! And... And..."

"Twi. Calm down, it’s just a test." I tried to talk her down.

"Just a test?! Just a test?!?! It’s more then just a test!" She fumed.

"I think she’s takin it pretty well don't you Rick?" Applejack asked with a grin and a nudge.

I sighed kneeling down by Twilight pulling her into my embrace. "Just relax love, no stress. Remember..." I rubbed her side gently and she calmed down almost immediately leaning against me.

"Sorry, sorry everyone. It’s just not that often that the Princess gives me a test."

"You'll do great Mom! You’re the smartest pony around!"

Everyone else agreed and we quickly got things cleaned up getting ready to go.

"Rarity? Would you mind if Scootaloo came over with Sweetie Belle after school? Just in case we're not back until late?" Twilight asked.

"But of course darling, it's always a... Pleasure, to have the girls over." She smiled wanly causing us all to smile.

"Aww... But I wanna come!"

"Sorry Angel, we won't be too long..."

"And besides young filly you have school." Twilight finished with a smile.

"Drat..."

So with her large amount of books, scrolls, quills and paperwork we made our way to the train station waving goodbye to everyone and giving Scootaloo one last hug and her promise to be good for Rarity.

We got her stuff stored and settled down in our car for the long ride cuddling together, I could feel her shaking slightly and looking down I could see a few tears falling.

"Rick..." She whispered.

"What? Are you ok?"

"I'm scared..."

"About the test?"

"A little... But more about... This." She put her fore hooves over her belly, I reached around to grasp her hooves and squeeze them tightly.

"What do you mean?"

"Is this going to change everything? Change the way you feel about me..."

"Twi..."

"I’ve been thinking and… I'm going to get so fat... You won't want to touch me... And... And..." She broke out crying holding me tightly as she sobbed.

"Twilight..." I lifted her head up gently, kissing her and wiping her tears away. "There is nothing that could ever make me not want to touch you..." I rubbed her belly and chest softly. "Your being pregnant won't change a thing, the baby might change a few things in our life for sure... But for the best. You know I wasn't lying when I said that I found Cadence even more beautiful when she was pregnant... I've always had a... Thing... You know for pregnant women and mares..."

"A thing...?"

"Uhh... You know... I just find them very, very beautiful... And sexy..."

She just stared at me wide eyed for a moment, I was worried I might have weirded her out when she pushed forward kissing me feverishly. We had discussed and researched just what was safe and not for making love while she was pregnant and found it was quite safe up until near the very end, thankfully.

A train car, even in our own cabin isn't the most private location but... We made it work.

I held her tightly afterward again amazed at how much she meant to me, how little my old preconceptions meant now… If you had told me a year and a bit ago I would be in love with, married too or making love to a pony, let alone a purple unicorn pony I would have thought you were crazy...

Twilight sighed snuggling closer to me under my shirt draped over us. "I love you so much. Even if I fail as Princess Celestia’s student... As long as we're together, I'll be ok."

"Don't be silly love, you won't fail. I know you. You can't fail; you’re strong, so smart, beautiful..."

"But..."

I stopped her with a soft kiss and a smile. "It doesn't matter, together we're alright. You, Scootaloo, me and Starswirl." I said placing my hand protectively on her belly. "No matter the location where we four are is home. I love you."

"You always know what to say..." We kissed again then she glanced out the window. "What?! We're almost there! Quick get dressed! I've got to get my notes! I wanted to study a bit more on the ride...!"

I chuckled to myself getting dressed, same as always Twi... I wouldn't want her any other way...

We got all cleaned up and organized before the train pulled up, Twilight even managed to skim through one of her books she thought might have to do with this mysterious test.

As we stepped out and the crowd cleared a bit we got a surprise, Spike was waiting and waved gesturing us over.

"Hey guys! It’s great to see you!"

"Hey Spike!"

"Spike!" Twilight rushed up hugging him tightly. "I've missed you."

He blushed and hugged her trying to pull away after a moment embarrassed. "It hasn't been that long Twilight... But I missed you too."

I walked up with Twilights bags slung over my shoulder. "Good to see you Spike, your looking even bigger yet!"

He stretched out a bit showing off and he did look bigger still. When I first met him he had been around three feet long and had grown almost a foot when he first came to stay with the Princess. Now he was again mayhap a half a foot taller... Longer...?

And he was bigger, more musculature though he still spotted a bit of a pot belly. Clearly Princess Celestia was feeding him well, or perhaps Cadence and Armor were the culprits... No matter.

"What are you doing here Spike?" Twilight asked finally letting him get away.

"The Princess sent me to escort you of course! She was pretty sure you'd be here too Rick."

"Well she did send two tickets, but even if she hadn't you know I would still be here. Moral support, I can't match Twi's encyclopaedic knowledge." I grinned.

"I'm not that..."

Spike cut her off with a laugh. "Tell me about it! When I was her assistant I could barely spell half the words she used in her letters!"

We laughed together for a bit until she stomped her hoof impatiently. "Rick! Spike!"

"Sorry, sorry. Princess Celestia did want to see you right away." He started leading the way and we followed.

"So what can you tell us about this 'test' Spike?" I asked.

"Nothing really! There’s been a lot of activity the past few days at the palace. Shining Armor and Cadence are both gone too! They left Shimmer and Prism with your parents so they must have been going a fair ways away."

"I wonder what happened?!"

"I'm sure it has nothing to do with your test anyhow." He comforted.

"Maybe... What about you Spike? The few letters you've sent have been pretty vague. What have you learned from Princess Celestia?"

He looked surprised for a moment then looked down at the ground still leading the way but slowly.

"Good and bad really... I wanted to know what it really meant to be a Dragon. What do we do? How do we live? I saw first claw how a lot of Dragons live and behave..."

Twilight put a forehoof on his shoulder comfortingly. "Spike you don't have to tell us..."

"I do! You’re the closest... Well second closest thing I've got to a family..."

He started leading us again.

"Alright buddy, tell us what you can."

"Thanks Rick, you too Twilight. She's told me a lot and I've learned a bit myself from a few of the old tomes in the archives. Mo... The Princess gave me permission to go down there and Alizarin has been a big help too!"

"Anyhow, from what I've read and she’s told me it seems the majority of Dragonkind is a lot like I've seen already... Following migration routes, nomadic... Finding and stealing gems or treasure from anyone they can, other Dragons included! But their not all like that, some just want to be left alone tunnelling out a lair and sleeping... Hoarding gems and treasure too..."

Gems, gold and treasure seemed to be key here. Not unlike the tales of Dragons from Earth...

"A few, a very few are more like me... Well I guess I'm more like them, more social. Living with ponies, Griffins and others even on their own but near settlements allowing others to visit trading their wisdom and strength for treasure! So I have some hope that I'll turn out ok, and not like those other jerks!"

Twilight and I smiled together. "I don't think there’s any danger of that Spike."

"And you’re Mother...?" Twilight whispered stopping him in his tracks.

"Oh... That..."

"I'm sorry Spike! I didn't mean to...!"

He turned around with a forced smile then began leading the way again.

"Its ok Twilight, I want to tell you guys really... It’s just hard..."

He took a deep breath and continued. "Princess Celestia doesn't know for sure what happened but she told me of a time long ago when she and Luna wandered seeking something... One night they took shelter in a cave which they quickly discovered was an old Dragon den...!"

He stopped a moment to compose himself, we didn't press him and before long he continued talking while leading us.

"The walls, floor and roof were fire blasted and claw scored... That’s not so unusual though as a lot of the time its how Dragons expand their lairs. They started a fire and looked around but there was no treasure horde only a few scattered coins and tiny gems, deep in the back of the cave stuffed in a crack they found an egg... Me. I... I don't know what happened, the Princess isn't sure either. They could have missed what happened by days or years... When she told me... Described the cave... I... I was scared, I don't know why. I can't be sure... But I think my Mom died there protecting her horde... Protecting me..."

He stopped again his shoulders shaking and I could see tears plopping down onto the pavement, Twi rushed forward to hug him tightly and I knelt down to squeeze his shoulder.

"I don't know for sure... If I can even remember from then... Is it all just my imagination? What could I do...?! I was just a helpless egg...!"

"Shh, shh..." Twilight soothed. "Nothing, you couldn't have done anything. That’s why she protected you, her baby. It’s not your fault; just remember she loved you..."

He burst out crying at that and I enveloped the two of them in my arms. I imagine we made a strange picture, a baby dragon, a pony and a human hugging in the middle of the approach to the palace.

After a few minutes we stepped back, Spike and Twilight wiped their eyes. I had a few tears myself to be honest.

"Thanks guys... I just needed to tell someone, Mo... Princess Celestia and I have talked about it a lot but..."

"Spike...?" Twilight asked with a knowing smile. "What are you not telling us?"

He tried to look stoic and seceded for a moment then went slightly red in the face bursting out. "Princess Celestia's my Mom now!"

"What?!" Twilight and I's reaction was pretty much the same.

He started leading us along again practically skipping along as he explained.

"It's just... Coming back here and spending so much time with her brought back so many memories... Your magic hatched me Twilight but the Princess is the one who raised me, held me, fed me... Loved me. I know you do too! But with her it's different..."

"After a late night study session I was tired and when she suggested it was time for bed I said... 'Ok mommy...' I felt like such a fool! I thought for sure she was going to be mad at me, or laugh at me, maybe send me away..."

He took a deep breath and smiled. "She didn't do any of those things. She just smiled and wrapped me in her wings teleporting us to my room. As she tucked me in she whispered. 'Do you really feel that way about me Spike?' When I looked up and saw her beautiful eyes shimmering with tears I knew I was home. We stayed up even later that night talking until I fell asleep; from that day on I've called her mom... I try not to do it in front of others; I don't want to embarrass her..."

"I don't think she would mind Spike." I grinned.

"Your right. I'm just... Happy. Happier then I've ever been before." He started suddenly spinning to grab Twilight. "I don't mean I wasn't happy with you Twilight! You’re like my big sister! Please don't be mad!"

She smiled shaking her head grabbing him in another hug. "How could I be mad Spike? Princess Celestia has always been like a mother to me as well, this just makes us even closer..." She hugged him tighter a little teary eyed. "You'll always be my little brother Spike, even when the only way I'll be able to hug you is to wrap my forehooves around your finger..."

"Thank you Twilight!"

They hugged a moment longer before he jumped. "We're late! Quick let’s go!"

He took off running with Twilight hot on his heels and me floundering to catch up hauling Twilights saddlebags.

Fortunately we had been close to the palace and arrived quickly, Spike pulled us aside just before the door.

"She asked to see you alone Twilight."

"Alone...?" She gulped.

"You'll be fine love, I'll wait for you."

"Me too! Good luck! Not that you'll need it!"

She levitated her saddlebags onto her back and entered looking back once; I blew her a kiss as the doors closed behind her.

I moved a bit away sitting on the nearby grass in the shade thinking about everything Spike had told us. Spike was restless pacing back and forth beside me.

"That’s it! I'm going for some donuts, be right back."

"Sure Spike." I chuckled lying back in the grass and closing my eyes.

I lay there listening to the sounds of the city, ponies going about their business and the breeze blowing, when I heard some hoofclicks approach.

"Done already love?"

I popped open my eyes to find Luna looking down at me.

"She will be some time yet Rick..." She said sombrely sitting beside me.

"It’s good to see you Luna... What’s wrong?"

She sighed looking over at me with sad eyes. "I... I should not say it is my sister’s task for Twilight Sparkle…”

"This test?" She nodded looking down to avoid eye contact. "Luna please, is this test going to be dangerous?! I should be in there with her!"

I started to stand but she put a forehoof on my shoulder gently pushing me back down.

"No... The test is not here but far to the north it shall be a long journey..."

"Is it going to be dangerous?!" She continued to look down but kept her hoof on my shoulder, she seemed to be steeling herself for something. "Luna...?"

I put my hand on her hoof squeezing it comfortingly. "I did not want this Rick... My sister believes... No. Twilight Sparkle is special and my sister try’s to guide her to a greater destiny... That sounds a bit presumptuous I know..."

She took a deep breath finally looking up at me. "It will be dangerous, as dangerous a trial as any she has ever faced before. Circumstances have culminated and my sister has faith that Twilight will be able to handle the situation... Find a solution... Her friends and you will be by her side to support her but ultimately it must be she that solves this dilemma. Otherwise she may fail..."

She pulled her hoof away and slumped down looking dejected. I shuffled over to her and put my arm around her pulling her close; she stiffened for a moment then leaned against me with a grateful sigh.

"I wish I had my sister’s faith... The faith you all have put in Twilight Sparkle. She is a talented Unicorn I admit but... This test will be difficult, even Tia and I barely..."

"Please Luna tell me what you can."

"I... I can't, Twilight must go into her test... Uncompromised."

"What...?"

"It has been over a thousand years since my sister and I faced... No I mustn’t... Tia's memory of what we faced has faded somewhat over the years. I however have had ample time to go over my memories, catalogue them, see my mistakes, triumphs, loves and losses... They are burned into me now. Tia won't listen though... I should be going as well! Only she and I have faced what awaits them...! Even with Cadence and Shining Armors help..."

Her eyes went wide and she clapped her forehooves over her mouth blushing slightly with embarrassment.

I smiled and gave her a squeeze. "Luna please tell me what you can. I promise not to tell her anything, I only want to protect her. I know you would hate to have any harm come to her, me or her friends. Not to mention your future godchild..."

She turned and looked at me her lovely blue green eyes wide.

"My... My... Godchild...?"

I smiled softly. "Luna... You've given Twilight and I the greatest gift I could have ever dreamed of or asked for! How could we not want you to be a part of our foal’s life? Granted it’s an honour you'll be sharing with five other mares but still we want you to be there, for her or him to have an amazing godparent to look up to for their whole life!"

Tears began to form and fall upon the ground; I looked around quickly worried that we might be creating some gossip here sitting close together like we were. But we were well away from the main paths and in the shade of a tree no one seemed to have noticed us.

"You... You want me as your foal’s godmother? After all I did to you and..."

I couldn't bear to see her so miserable and confused. I pulled her into my embrace holding her tightly.

"The good you've done and still do far outweigh any bad you feel you've done Luna. You are a good friend to us and I hope you always will be..." I whispered.

"Thank you! Thank you so much!" She clung to me tightly crying openly as I gently soothed her mane and back.

After a few minutes she drew back and wiped her eyes with a smile. "Always crying in front of you Rick, embarrassing for me to get so emotional... I find it easier now though, Tia and I have had many long conversations about what I missed, how things have changed and what happened to me, and to her while I was gone... It’s just nice to have family, friends, those who care about me... Thank you."

"Glad to... I too have wrestled with... Well everything, being here, losing my family and friends... But what I've gained is so much more." I cleared my throat. "I didn't mean to sound like us making you a godmother was some sort of a bribe for information! We knew as soon as we thought of it that we wanted you to be..."

She smiled slyly leaning back. "Indeed, trying to bribe a Princess?? Even a knight cannot get away with such reprehensible behaviour!"

She laughed lightly giving me a nudge with her forehoof. "Truly Rick when I came out here and saw you I think I had already made up my mind to tell you everything..."

"Thanks..."

"And I will tell you but not here."

"I need to wait for Twilight though."

"Of course... Ah, Spike." She rose smiling as he ran up a big bag of donuts in hand and clearly surprised to see her.

"Princess Luna! Great to see you... Uhh... Donut?" He asked sheepishly offering her the bag and bowing at the same time.

She smiled warmly and shook her head. "Thank you but no Spike. However I do need your assistance."

"Me?!"

"Indeed, I must discuss something with Rick in private, but we need someone trustworthy to wait for Twilight Sparkle and let her know he will meet her later. Can we trust you with this?"

"Of course Princess!" He replied saluting quickly and nearly dropping his bag. "You can count on me!"

"I knew we could." She leaned against me her horn glowed and we were gone...

I blinked a few times as my head spun slightly from the teleport. I had half expected it but it still dazed me a bit. Maybe ponies with all four hooves on the ground were less affected by it...?

My head cleared quickly though and I looked around the darkened chamber, two windows and a balcony were barely visible all shrouded by heavy drapes, I took a step forward squinting in the dark and immediately barked my shin off an unseen obstacle.

"Ahh!" I hopped back cradling my sore shin and ran into something else, soft and warm it too stumbled back with a gasp the both of us falling to the side entangled fortunately onto a large soft surface.

"Oops, sorry just let me..." I tried to pull away but was partially trapped underneath her.

"No, no. My fault sorry, I forget others have not my senses in the dark, just let me..."

The glow of her horn was quickly overshadowed by the lamps she lit revealing a modest and fairly spartan chamber, a small desk and stool which I had walked into, a small wardrobe to the side of the door and several portraits hung upon the walls. A large one just across from me caught my eye two regal looking Alicorns smiling warmly and there between them two small and very familiar Alicorn fillies... Celestia, her mane and tail a bright pink unlike her many colored cascading ones now, she looked small maybe a bit older then Scootaloo but with an Alicorn how could I tell...? And a tiny foal Luna perched on her sisters back peeking out through her sister’s mane.

The portrait glowed and suddenly the figures within seemed to come to life, there was no sound but the two fillies galloped around their parents legs in an apparent game of tag, the King and Queen seemed to laugh finally calming them both down and returning to their original poses.

"It hurts to see it, even more so to activate its magic and see it thus but I cannot... I will not ever forget them. Their love, kindness and everything they taught me..."

"Luna...' I looked away from the portrait to her and suddenly realised we were still in the same position we had fallen in, laid out across her large bed with her atop me still watching the portrait her eyes glistening.

After a moment she blinked and looked down at me realizing the position we were in she blushed heavily backing away. "Oh...! W... Welcome to my chambers."

I pulled myself off the bed trying to hide my own embarrassment. "Ahem... Let’s not mention this Twi eh? She... Can get a bit jealous."

Her eyes went wide as she stammered. "What?! No... No I would never...!"

I chuckled at her discomfort nudging her gently. "No worries Luna. Now about this test...?"

She nodded and sat back a thoughtful look on her face. "The test itself is almost entirely up to Twilight Sparkle to solve, I cannot give you any information there..."

She held up a forehoof seeing me about to interject. "However... I will tell you of Tia and I's experiences, I do not know how much help they will be..."

I settled back with a smile and nod and she continued.

"Very well, let me tell you of our time in the Crystal Empire..."

"Long ago before my imprisonment but after... He. Usurped us, at first Tia and I fled to the Griffin empire, the largest civilization on our world... Their high council was sympathetic to our cause but they could not risk helping us against a being so powerful... They had learned a hard lesson many years before when our parents were just forming Equestria; bring the tribes together and trying to outline their borders... The rulers of the Griffin Empire then were warlike and powerful; they had no qualms about taking what they wanted. When their forces came against us though they were surprised and outmatched, they had numbers but the tactics and magic used by my parents and their army were far beyond their understanding or abilities..."

"After many defeats they were forced to concede a large section of their land to us and while our forces could defeat them in battle we did not have the numbers to concur them. Truly though that was not my parent’s intent at all, they simply wanted a place for all ponykind to live in peace and prosperity. They did not fear the Griffins but nor could they afford to trust them, so instead of open war or even just hostile relations our parents helped them. Taught them, even assisted them in their battle against the wild Dragons who endangered their borders regularly…”

"Over time things changed subtly, the old leaders were replaced by the newly formed high council, some I have no doubt had to be forced... But eventually they became our close allies and trading partners! That’s why we were so surprised and upset when they turned us away... I understand now, with our parents... Passing. And everything that happened after, diplomatic ties were severed and I can't blame them for fearing... Discords power..."

She broke off stifling a sob and I reached over grasping one of her forehooves and squeezing it gently. "Thank you. We left the Griffin Empire angry and disillusioned, they had at the very least allowed us passage through their lands and furnished us with supplies. We travelled and travelled not knowing exactly what we sought but sure that we would know it when we found it..."

"Our search took us all around the lands and small kingdoms surrounding Equestria and beyond, we made many friends and were more then happy to use our powers to help when we could. Tia and I grew even closer but always in the back of our minds was the knowledge of what was... And the worse that could happen in Equestria!"

Her horn glowed and a small pinprick of light appeared between us, slowly it expanded filling the space between us and even overlapping us a bit. I could clearly see it was a map of Equestria and beyond, the most detailed I had ever seen.

"This is the path we took..." She traced onto the map a trail with her forehoof a faraway look in her eyes as she remembered.

"It had been almost a year since we had left and we still had no answers only more questions and leads, so many leads but most of them were based in folklore and myth... Still we searched them out finding disappointment again and again. We traveled far north seeking a city said to be lost in the snow. But what we found was so much more..."

She let the map lapse and sank down onto her bed face to face with me as I sat on the floor. "We're not infallible you know? Tia and I we've made... Mistakes, errors in judgement..."

"I understand Luna, we all do."

She smiled and shook her head slightly. "True, but when you have power... Responsibility such as we do, your mistakes can cause hardship or worse to all those around you..."

"Right."

"Not unlike a knight..." She smiled. "Or a father."

"We had been traveling for days and days through the snow and cold, our supplies had nearly run out and we were both reaching the limit of our physical and magical endurance... But ahead in the distance we saw a shimmering, we both rushed forth hoping it was not another mirage. Oh yes the desert is not the only place you will see a mirage, the howling wind and blowing snow even the sun could and had fooled us into thinking we saw what we wanted to many times..."

She sighed and rolled over playfully. "I remember it all so clearly, it was a trying time and we were both so driven but full of despair... We helped so many each other included but it still never felt like we were never reaching our goal! It was a horrible and wonderful time... When we reached the shimmering we beheld an opaque wall stretching as far as we could see upwards and to the sides! Each of us cast spells trying to discern the nature of this barrier but it was like nothing we had ever seen before. Finally we decided there was nothing to do but take the plunge, we stepped forward together eyes shut into the unknown…”

She stopped stretching for a moment looking at me upside down.

"And...? What did you see?!"

"It was the most beautiful sight I had ever seen, green fields far and wide, flowers, crops and in the distance a huge palace and entire city made entirely of crystal...!"

"Crystal?!"

"Yes, the Crystal Empire. A very isolationist Kingdom... Or empire I suppose. Regarded as mere myth, stories from the occasional traveller who came across it and survived the trek back across the artic waste were never taken seriously. We were even more surprised to find another tribe of ponies living there, the crystal ponies. Not really made of crystal but their bodies shone and glimmered as if they truly were. The crystal ponies did not practice magic as we know it, they WERE magic... True we all have a dashes of magic in us from the earth ponies with their endurance and talent for growing, the Pegasus and their flying skill and of course the unicorns, you above any other can surely attest to their magic..."

I smiled like a goof thinking of Twilight, her adorable excitement in discovering even the most simple new magic spell or trick. "I can at that..."

"The crystal ponies fell into no definition we could determine! Their bodies were clearly affected by magic as well as the way they interacted with one another and their environment. The complete lack of snow and cold attested to that! Our arrival was a shock to them very much like your's in Ponyville for the first time. Soon enough though we found, or rather they found us... Some kindred spirits, A few families of pones from all three tribes who had struck out on their own and found their way here through luck or destiny I do not know."

"Did they recognise you?"

"No! Their families had left before our parents had even been crowned King and Queen, rulers of the newly formed Equestria. From what we heard the earth ponies had been quickly accepted they being the most alike to the crystal ponies, over time they found mates and eventually their foals, foals became true crystal ponies as well! The Pegasus too, their foals were born true crystal ponies wingless but accepted. The Unicorns however due to their longer lifespan were not all gone when we came; several still lived within the crystal empire."

"The shield we found out protected them not only from the harsh environment outside but also hostile animals of the tundra as well as any sapient being with evil intent. The source of the shield they were less then forthcoming with but we didn't push them, we were the strangers here. We had come at a most unusual time; the old king had passed on but left neither heir to the throne nor any successor. Several factions within the empire vied for the throne and unfortunately as newcomers and beings of power we were drawn into the troubles..."

"Oh? I thought they were mostly xenophobic? Surely the two of you..."

"Definitely! There were many who didn't even want us there, but among the groups vying for the throne they quickly realized the power we represented, power they thought they could use to their own benefit!"

She practically growled the last bit then took a moment to clear her head. "Sorry..."

"No, I can get it. Being used or even having others think they can use you sucks."

"There were three major groups trying to win the throne as well as a dozen minor ones who lacked the power or resources to truly challenge for it. The largest was the core of the old kings advisors and supporters, they were highly in favour or isolationism expelling any pony not of 'true blood' us included, they were the only group who didn't want our assistance at all."

"The second group was a little more open minded, they were willing to allow other races into the empire but felt they could never be trusted with any position of authority. Also they were thoroughly uninterested in outside trade feeling that the empire was fully self sufficient."

"The last big group actually included several of the Unicorns living there; they had no clue to what had happened to the three tribes after they left. They were of course open to other ponies and races coming to visit and live in the empire and very open to trade. Unfortunately when we explained the current crisis in Equestria they were less then willing to guarantee any support..."

She sighed sitting back up and hopping off the bed to pace angrily. "So many ponies asking for so much! Things beyond what we could even accomplish! It was so, so frustrating... Days, weeks then even months passed. We came so close to leaving so many times but they were the closest best chance we had... If we could help them then they could help us! So we kept trying, we soon found the three major groups to be far too busy backstabbing, slandering and thinking of their own selves to be effective or trustworthy rulers..."

She flopped back down on her bed with an exaggerated groan and an apologetic smile.

"It wasn't all in vain, we got to know many of the empires inhabitants and cultivated many friendships, eventually through word of mouth we heard of one of the smaller groups that sounded promising... It was run by a brash young Unicorn not even in his hundredth year yet! He wanted very much to open the borders to invite in other races and open trade. He impressed us to say the least, his magical skills too were well above the typical Unicorn, he had ingratiated himself to the former ruler gaining access to the libraries deepest archives and had learned much. Tia and I were no novices of course, we had had our lessons growing up which I despised and Tia excelled at naturally..."

She stuck her tongue out at a portrait of Celestia on the wall giggling like a schoolfilly.

"Also as you know we used to frequent the archives to see Alizarin and to snoop... There are many magic’s that should not be played with... We didn't know! We were both still so young and naive..."

She smiled at my questioning look.

"Yes even Princess Celestia... Especially her... I knew romance, love... As badly as it turned out. Tia had no real experience; I should have seen the signs! But we were embroiled in a political war, with our support and that of the ponies we had befriended we were quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with... Around two months after we had found our way to the empire Tia came to me excitedly explaining how the Unicorn leaded had devised a spell to join our two kingdoms, when the crystal empire was filled with light, love and happiness these things would be reflected across Equestria as well, but should darkness and evil reign... Well we had no fear of that, with the two of us there and backing the best prospect for king we were sure of success! Naive remember...?”

"The three of us combined our magic using the entire city and palace as a huge power focus casting the spell and linking Equestria and the crystal empire forever! It was such an amazing moment; I thought I could finally see an end to our long journey! I never thought to ask Tia if she had taught him something in return..."

"After that we threw our full and unconditional support behind him, striving toward the crowning of the Unicorn... Sombra..."

She went quiet her eyes downcast.

"What happened then?"

"Things went very well; we gained support with the ponies many of the other groups even began to support him accepting his bid for the crown. Finally after another month all the criteria had been met, the other contenders pushed aside or having given in to Sombra's inevitable victory. He was finally crowned King Sombra, Tia stood by his side as he was inaugurated. By then I had clued in, I was happy for her... Perhaps a bit jealous but we had our own kingdom to reclaim!"

"Yet another month passed, I felt we were running out of time! But Tia and Sombra were busy restructuring the empire making many small changes here and there... The sweeping reforms he had promised seemed slow in coming but Tia had faith in him so I had no choice but to go along. He formed an elite guard to keep the peace as well as protect he and Tia... Things were beginning to unravel; I tried to make her see...! To understand... But she was blind, fallen for his charm and soothing words. I couldn't blame her, they were a good match and he treated her like she deserved, I knew all too well how love could blind a mare... Like me... Little did I know how soon Tia and I would have even more in common..."

"Common? The miasma?!"

"No, no thankfully. That would have made things even worse... If that were even possible..."

I could tell this story was depressing her; she had sunk down in her bed wrapping her sheet around herself. "Luna... You've told me plenty you don't have to..."

She looked up at me and smiled her eyes lighting up a bit. "I had almost forgotten how nice it is to have friends, who care for you and don't want you to hurt..." She wiggled forward kissing me on the cheek. "Ooh! They tickle! No wonder Twilight likes them so much..." She giggled with a sly smile making me blush slightly.

"I was beginning to lose my patience with the whole situation; my temper was frayed with Tia, Sombra and anyone I saw really! Thankfully before I really blew up Tia and I were summoned before him, he explained that he had been given information from a reliable source of a Dragons den not too far away, abandoned but still with a sizeable amount of treasure abandoned within. With that he assured us we would be able to hire enough mercenaries to supplement his own forces and retake Equestria!"

"I was so excited I didn't think... Didn't question... Who would choose to share such information? Why he would send just Tia and I and one wagon instead of a regiment of guards and many…? We set out well equipped at least, quietly and quickly so as not to cause a commotion, exiting the shield we were immediately hammered by the cold and biting wind it seemed far colder then I remembered... We trekked even further north barely able to see in the howling blizzard, thankfully we had our own... 'Connections' that kept us on track, that first night..."

She shivered despite the midday’s warmth. "So cold, we huddled together by the wagon, blankets draped over us trying to salvage all the warmth we could, a fire was impossible as was sleep. If we drifted off we might never wake... Close together we talked keeping each other awake, she told me of her and Sombra’s plans for the future. She was so happy and enthusiastic but... Something in them rang false to me; I brushed it off as just jealousy on my part... I wish I hadn't..."

"He wasn't what he said was he...?"

"He was and wasn't and what followed was his doing and ours... The next day the storm had lessened and we were able to make headway, by nightfall we came upon the cave. It was quite large the wagon easily came along with us inside, we lit the way as we explored reviling many troubling signs. Walls claw scored and fire blasted, whole support pillars smashed out caving in small sections of the roof. No one pony or Dragon had been here for some time but not nearly long enough to erase the smell of death... As we traveled we found little trace of treasure, a few hooffulls of coins and the odd tiny scattered gem. Deep in the back of the cave we found her... Clawed and mangled nearly beyond recognition, she had been a small Dragoness likely young and only with a small horde so why she needed such a large cave was beyond us until... Searching a bit further behind her hidden in a small alcove we found her true treasure, a dozen small eggs her babies..."

"Spike...!" I whispered.

She looked at me surprised. "You can never tell him.” At my understanding nod she continued. “His brothers and sisters had all been cruelly smashed, all but one pushed deep back in a crevice a tiny egg... Spike. We took the egg with us; there was nothing else we could do. As brutal and horrific as it seems now it was an all too common occurrence back then... We made camp for the night near the entrance as far from that scene of loss as we could. The wagon and wood we had been carrying together made a fitting pyre; we wouldn't need it anymore. The egg soaked up the heat seeming to grow the closer we moved it to the fire. Together we placed in into the very center for the night, taking turns sleeping and caring for it, turning it and keeping a steady flow of healing magic into it..."

"In the morning the egg seemed... Almost alive, practically glowing and warm to the touch. Tia perched it on her back and as we left we collapsed the entire cavern, a tomb for the lost mother and her offspring... The storm had died in the night and we made good time getting back to the empire late in the evening but as we approached we could clearly see something was wrong. The shield flickered barely keeping out the elements; we rushed to the city to find the streets empty, dark and strange... Wrong feeling crystal formations had begun to form all around the city. Quickly we galloped to the palace to find our way barred by the elite guard Tia had helped to form!"

"They too seemed... Wrong, small bits of that same crystal seemed to grow from their bodies and their eyes were empty and lifeless tinged with a sickly green and red glow a strange purple mist coming off them... When Tia saw that her face seemed to drain of all color and emotion 'No...' She whispered suddenly hurling herself into action flying over the guards and entering the palace taking us all by surprise. I followed her as quickly as I could having to fight off a few of the guards who had gotten too close. When I reached the throne room I found her fallen to her knees tears streaming down her face the egg placed carefully to her side. The source of her anguish was easily apparent, the throne room had been transformed into a mockery of what it had once been dark and jagged crystal forms had taken over and seated on the throne was Sombra his crown, cape and hoofguards on looking far more menacing in these circumstances, his cruel eyes blazing red and green with that same sickly light purple vapour coming off them as if they burned the very air they touched. He smiled seeing us... 'Ah my beloved and her doting sister, how nice. Do you like the changes I've made? I see no trace of treasure with you... Although... That egg may well fetch a fine price.'"

That seemed to snap Tia out of her malaise; she grabbed the egg clutching it close. 'No! Sombra... Why...?! Why did you use it?! I told you... I...' He laughed manically his horn flashing knocking us both to the ground, 'King Sombra. How soon you forget slut. As for your "gift" to me? Why shouldn't I use it? It's made me strong! Stronger then anyone! I will rule the Crystal Empire and Equestria forever!' I was in shock; he had been a skilled magician but this amount of power... It wasn't possible!"

She sighed looking me in the eye. "Please don't judge her Rick, I learned later she had taught him Dark magic. Something she had learned deep in the archives a book of forbidden lore... She never taught me, I guess because she knew how dangerous it was. Most magic is neutral; it all depends on what you use it for good or evil... Not so with Dark magic, it corrupts... The more you use it the deeper into your psyche it seeps, Sombra must have been practicing in since she taught him... Why would she teach him I questioned, yelled, screamed! Why would she even know it…?"

"Eventually I realized, knowledge is power, even if you never use it simply knowing of something allows you to in some way be prepared for it, react to it, anticipate... You know this."

And I did I realized, my studies into destructive magic, knowledge I needed to be able to counter such magic’s if I ever needed...

"At the time we were both badly unprepared, after our long trek and the things we'd seen we were both physically and mentally exhausted... Tia was shaking clutching the egg like it was her lifeline, 'No.' She looked up her eyes suddenly steely, she put the egg beneath her as she stood, 'Luna! To me!' As shocked and tired as I was her voice snapped me out of it and I was at her side in an instant. She looked up at him sadly. 'Sombra... I'm so sorry, I never should have taught you something so dangerous I just...', 'King Sombra!' He raged his magic again lashing out at us trying to knock us back but we were ready standing together we kept our hooves. 'You were foolish, you thought you could control me, but I fooled you! I mastered the Dark magic where you failed! Now stop this idiocy and join me, stand by my side and be my Queen and we will make this entire world ours!' I could feel her trembling again but with longing or fear I didn't know...

"Tia..." I whispered nudging against her gently; she started bumping the egg below. She steadied it; seeming to draw strength from it and me she drew a deep breath. 'Sister, join with me. I must try to banish this darkness from him... I do not know if we can succeed but I must try!' For you... I replied. 'For us...' I didn't know if she meant me or him but it didn't matter. For the Crystal empire! I gasped as we joined. 'For Equestria!'"

"He snarled as we began to glow together Tia's golden aura bolstered by my own creating a shield around us. 'Traitorous bitch!' He growled his own sickly aura flaring up and enveloping us tendrils of dark magic piercing our shield effortlessly and slamming into us, trying to corrupt us..."

I was on edge eagerly waiting what happened next. "What did you do?"

"We discovered something. We had a resistance of sorts to the Dark magic, I could feel it trying to invade my body, my mind, my very essence but it couldn't. Not right away... It could pierce our shield but not us, maybe because of how we were joined, what we are... Or what our parents had gifted us with..."

She shook her head with a snort. "No matter the reason for the moment we were safe, at his power level any normal pony would not have been... The guards we had seen before had clearly been corrupted. Almost any normal pony would be lost... We stepped forward together our aura strengthening. Tia and I... For so long we were all the other had. Being an Alicorn let alone the daughters of the King and Queen... Well, we didn't make a lot of friends...

She sighed standing again to pace about the room. "As soon as my studies began she was there to help me, we did everything together and we learned over time we could join... Combine our magic, our strength to accomplish so much more! Our parents had our instructors teach us much but they themselves taught us each our focus in very specific areas. Tia's was the light, the sun, radiance and warmth while mine was the night, shadows and the dreaming... Just as my mother had begun to shape before... I wouldn't let her down! We would survive! Reclaim Equestria and fulfill our parent’s dreams!"

"We took a step forward and another Tia's radiance pushed the darkness back. Sombra renewed his assault time and again but as we advanced it seemed inevitable. We pushed him up against his throne trying to draw out, to eliminate the darkness that filled him... He spat and hissed at us then suddenly stopped and an evil grin crossing his face his horn flashed and he was gone! We spun around trying to locate him and saw him at the other end of the chamber guards now flooding the room through all the doors and him standing over the egg..."

"He raised a forehoof above it as Tia screamed 'Nooo!!!' Surprisingly he stopped placing his hoof lightly onto of the egg. 'Yes... Destroying or selling it would be a waste, a corrupted Dragon to serve me however...' His dark smile grew and I knew it was now or never."

"Tia... I begged. 'Do it.' She sobbed, suddenly it was she pouring her magic into me, I don't know if she knew what I intended to do. I only knew one spell fast enough, dangerous enough to end this now. Penumbra... A spell taught to me by my mother, she had used it to shape the shadows of the dreaming but it had a dark side, with enough power focused it could rip the spirit, the flesh and essence of a being transforming them into a living shadow never again able to stand the light of day..."

"The spell sprang from us instantly striking Sombra’s hoof changing it to insubstantial shadow working its way quickly through his body. 'Ahhhrg...! I'll not go alone!' He cursed his horn flashing once before it too was consumed and his shadow scattered in all directions by Tia's radiance. The whole palace shuddered as his final spell reverberated throughout... Though the entire city, all of the empire! Using it as a focus as we had... We felt it take hold as everything began to quake, it was all we could do to grab the egg and hold onto one another as the dark crystals shattered around us once again revealing the throne room as it should be before everything went black... And in that darkness were the cries of thousands of ponies all silenced in an instant... I still hear them some nights…”

She stopped her head hung low; I rose up and embraced her quietly holding her tight as she continued.

"We clung together as slowly, so slowly the world came back... The snow, the cold and thankfully the sun... Of the palace, the city and the whole Crystal Empire there was no trace..."

"And now...?"

"The empire has returned and we fear Sombra as well... Cadence and Shining Armor are there already but I fear they too cannot meet this threat. That is why this is so important to my sister! But also why she dare not go herself and why she feels I must not go either... I hope Twilight Sparkle is up to this challenge but I fear... Rick! You must protect her! Not only from what Sombra may have in store but from herself! You know her thirst for knowledge; do not let her make the mistakes... We all made. But neither can you guide her... Ugh! It’s so frustrating! I am so sorry to dump all this on you..."

I squeezed her once more stepping back. "Luna. I am honoured you would trust me with this story; I will do everything in my power to protect Twilight but not help her... It won't be easy, but we'll get through. Believe in her, in me and her friends. We'll find a way..."

"That reminds me..." Her horn glowed teleporting something in behind her. "Kneel and put out your hands please.

I did as she asked and she levitated a small scabbard over her back into my hands. "A weapon for the royal knight." She grinned as I looked it over.

It was a small dagger in a simple sheath Celestia and Luna’s markings on it, I held it up with a questioning look. "What are you trying to imply here Luna?" I asked with a smile.

"I don't understand..."

"Well it’s like... You’re trying to say my... Never mind. What is this?" I blushed slightly changing the topic.

She smiled at me bemused. "Draw it but carefully. This is the same weapon you used to extract the Miasma; we enlarged it and made this scabbard it cannot cut through. Be careful with it for it is a weapon built to kill, but I can think of none other who I would wish to possess it. We have added a simple enchantment as well you will never drop it nor have it jarred from your hands."

I drew it carefully its shining blade seemed almost transparent, I sheathed it carefully fastening the scabbard and belt around my waist. "Thank you Luna, and thank Princess Celestia for me as well."

She leaned close with a grin. "And don't you ever tell my sister I told you my pet name for her or I'll get you!" She added nudging me playfully.

"I would never... Lulu."

"What?! How did you...? Did she…?!"

I laughed at her confusion, I had just taken a guess. "I had no idea. Lucky guess Luna, your secrets are safe with me. But if... When we came back from this I think Twi deserves to hear this story..."

"Of course. But it grows late, she will be reaching the train station soon and you must be there to meet her. Best of luck Sir Sparkle, until we meet again I hope for your safety."

Her horn flashed and suddenly I found myself standing behind five familiar mares.

"What’s taking them so long?!"

"Calm down Rainbow Dash, although I am interested to hear about this trip we're supposed to go on."

"Got that right Rare, what could be so dadgum important?"

"Who cares?! We get to ride on the train! For free!"

"I... I just wish Trixie could have come..."

I shook my head to clear the dizziness; I hoped they would all be alright...

Twilight...

Be strong...

Chapter 2 (The Empire)

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I watched the girls for a moment with a small smile though my mind still raced from what Luna had told me, I got up and cleared my throat.

"Rick! Well when did you show up sugar?"

"Just popped in." I grinned as they gathered around.

"So what’s goin on? All we got was a letter from Princess Celestia shortly after you an Twi left askin us to come and meet you both here!"

"Indeed darling, I had to make sure my parents would pick up Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle from school... I do hope she won't be scarred for life..."

We all laughed as Spike and Twilight rounded the corner walking up the stairs to the platform.

"How'd it go?!"

"I hope everything’s ok..."

"What’s all this about Twilight!?"

"Yes darling tell us."

"Are we going to celebrate your awesome super high grade with Princess Celestia?!" Pinkie asked pulling out her party cannon from... Well I had no idea where she had it hidden.

"Not exactly... We're going to the Crystal Empire!"

Just her mention of it and the excited way she told me Princess Celestia hadn’t told her much, my heart had leapt into my throat and I took a moment to catch my breath while everyone was asking about the empire and filing into the train. I looked up and found Twi standing in front of looking up at me with concern.

What is it?

Nothing love... I knelt down to kiss her and hold her tightly. I'm just glad to see you.

Rick...

Later... Really. Tell me all about this test, how did it go? And what’s this about a Crystal empire? I asked trying to be nonchalant.

Hmm...

We entered after the girls sitting to the side by ourselves for the moment.

You know I'll worm it out of you eventually...

I know love, its not important right now. I hated lying to her but I had made my promise and I intended to keep it.

Ok... It wasn't the usual type of test, Princess Celestia wants me to go and find out what’s happening in the Crystal Empire... An evil king lived and ruled there once but when he was defeated he cursed the entire empire to disappear! No pony knows where they went but after a thousand years it has returned and she’s put her faith in me... I hope I don't let her down...

Ha. You know I have nothing but faith in you, our friends, your parents... We're all here for you.

She smiled brightly leaning over to kiss me. Thank you, I love you... Um... But you can't help me. Princess Celestia said I have to find the solution on my own...

Then we'll support you however we can, I'll protect you love, protect Starswirl... I rubbed her belly gently.

I know it. Now what’s this I hear about you and Princess Luna going off to be alone together...?

Damn you Spike! Oh... Nothing serious... I tried to think fast. She seemed a bit moody or upset when I saw her leaving the palace so I was talking to her, trying to cheer her up and I... Kind of let it slip that we wanted her to be a Godmother...

Rick! We were going to tell her together!

I know, I know... I'm sorry, she was very touched though and we went off to talk about it. She wanted to know all it entailed and to give me this... I pulled out the dagger in its sheath to show her.

Is that...

The same, they made it a bit bigger and this sheath it can't cut through. I think it’s a fitting symbol of my Knighthood. A small beginning but in the future... Who knows?

Definitely. She snuggled up against me and I put my arms around her as the train began to move.

I'm so excited! What will we find, discover in the Crystal Empire?! Aren't you?

Of course Twi... Of course...

It was a long trip giving Twilight and the girls plenty of time to talk for her to explain and me plenty of time to my own thoughts and worries. I still chipped in with a comment here and there keeping social, trying not to let anything show.

After the first night the temperature began to drop as the fields, forests and plains of Equestria gave way to scrub and tundra. I got more and more anxious as we got closer it was a good thing the others were there to keep Twi distracted otherwise she would have saw through me in a minute.

Finally late in the afternoon on the third day we pulled up to a small station as we exited the train we found ourselves in the midst of a blizzard, we saw it from inside naturally but when you step out into it you really aren't prepared.

Rarity quickly pulled out a scarf from the large array of bags she had brought and Spike laboured under without complaint.

"Maybe we should..." Twilight began as she turned back towards the train car only to have the train pull away immediately heading back the way it came as fast as it could. "I guess not..."

"Twily!" Came a call through the blowing snow as Shining Armor appeared a scarf wound around his neck and mouth and a pair of ilgaak or snow goggles on to protect him from snow blindness.

"Shining Armor!" Twilight rushed over to give her brother a hug.

"Good to see you but let’s go... There are things out here we don't want to run into a night."

"W... What kind of things...?" Fluttershy squeaked.

Armor led us onward quickly. "We need to hurry; something keeps trying to get in! We think it's the Unicorn that..."

Suddenly behind us came a loud trumpeting cry half scream and growl.

"That’s one of the things isn't it?!" Fluttershy screamed.

"Just go, go!" He shouted scooping Spike out from under his luggage pile and tossing him ahead.

The girls all began galloping Twilight pushing Spike onto her back with Armor and I following closely behind. I spared a glance behind us as I ran and through the driving snow I could see a large billowing cloud of darkness powering its way through the storm drawing ever closer.

"It's catching up bro!" I gasped.

"We've got to slow it down..." He ground to a halt turning to face it and I followed suit my hand going instinctively to my dagger. Magic blade or not that’s not going to do any good I thought, as I racked my brain for a useful spell the smoke billowed up before us seeming to chuckle as a face formed looking down at us.

A dark pony’s face, he wore a cruel grin his horn was slightly bent upwards and its tip colored blood red. His eyes were the most disturbing though just as Luna had described red and sickly green with a strange purple vapour coming off them.

"I'll hit em high you hit em low." Armor started things off launching a couple magical bolts at the shadowy form. The first he bobbed his head out of the way and it passed through the rest of him ineffectively, the second he simply ignored and it too passed through ineffective.

I was beginning to think turning him into a shadow with the power of Dark magic might have been a big mistake... Well they did what they had to.

With energy passing straight through him I tried to think of what would be effective. Wind was my first thought looking at his smoky form but as he was withstanding the raging blizzard and the best I could do was a cooling breeze that wasn't going to work... Light!

I summoned a small globe of pure light levitating it before us. The effect was immediate, Sombra... I was sure it must be him hissed and recoiled away from it.

"Nice one!"

Sombra growled his horn glowed slightly and he seemed to shrink as a tendril of darkness snaked forth enveloping and crushing the sphere out of existence.

"Horseapples...!"

"Crap...!"

Sombra wasted no time and surged forward his shadowy darkness threatening to envelop us, Armor quickly raised his shield and I backed it up as well as I could with one of my own. They held... But only for a moment, they shattered in unison and his smoky darkness slammed into us hurling us backwards end over end. Our wild ride came to an end as we passed through an opaque shield and landed in a field of... Grass?

"Rick! Brother!" Twilight was there in an instant helping me sit up then looking over her brother. Strange black crystals were stuck into or growing out of his horn restricting his magic. I tried my own and found it too wouldn't work, pulling up my shirt we saw a small collection of those same crystals on my chest embedded in my skin around and through Twilights mark on me.

"Does it hurt?" She asked gently rubbing her forehoof against it.

I was worried that it might have been an attempt to corrupt us with Dark magic but I couldn't feel any influence... I hoped it was simply a way for him to counter our magic. He seemed to have difficulty using his magic in his new form, or maybe that was just wishful thinking on my part.

"It's ok love." She helped me up and we turned to find the others staring into the distance, and they had reason to. Luna had done it justice in her description but to see it firsthand was... Amazing. Neither clouds, storm nor snow. The sun shone brightly above just beginning to dip towards the horizon and before us were fields, wildflowers and crystal formations. And in the distance...

A huge glittering palace every bit as beautiful as Canterlot just very different. The spires, towers even the whole city shone and glimmered.

It was amazing; it almost, almost made me forget why we came... What I knew happened here. We made our way into the city towards the palace. Twilight and the girls were all excited looking around at the amazing architecture but all I noticed was the streets were bare not a pony to be seen. I managed to catch a few glimpses though, ponies peering out through curtained windows or cracked doors.

The palace was even more impressive up close, Rarity looked ready to faint.

"It's gorgeous! Absolutely beautiful! It's... I... I just can't...!"

"Comon Rare we're here to help Twilight not look at the scenery..."

Dash shrugged with a nonchalant look. "Looks like any other old castle we've seen..."

"Wha...?! You’re joking... Have you even seen...?”

Everyone chuckled at Rarity’s confusion as Dash grinned.

"Very funny."

The palaces beauty inside matched its exterior, everything was well lit warm and clean but even here something felt wrong... While I had seen a few signs of life outside in here it was completely deserted our hoofclicks and footfalls echoed down the halls.

Before too long Armor led us into the throne room and there awaited Cadence her head down but her horn aglow.

"Cadence!" Twilight galloped over her appearance seemed to energise Cadence as she jumped off the throne.

"Sunshine, sunshine ladybugs awake! Clap your hooves and do a little shake!"

They giggled together a moment until a... Ripple seemed to echo through the air as if something had just slammed against the shield but made no sound.

Cadence grimaced and as quickly as I had noticed it was gone.

"It's so good to see you all, I just wish it were under better circumstances..." She smiled wanly. Seeing the blank looks all around other then Armor and I she quickly realized none of the others knew what was going on. "I... I just mean there so much to do; we won't have time to visit."

"Princess Celestia sent me to find out what happened, find a way to protect the empire... But if whatever is out there can't get in it must already be protected!"

Shining Armor stepped up to his wife letting her lean against him. "Cadence has been using her magic to spread love and light and that seems to be able to keep him out... But she hasn't slept and hardly eats, she can't keep this up."

"I'm fine really..." She countered trying to stand tall but her exhaustion was written in her face and she quickly leaned back against him.

"She's not fine! My protection spell fully powered was less effective but it still was giving Cadence a chance to rest but now..." He rubbed his horn. "Sombra has countered mine... With us both so busy since we've gotten here we haven't had a chance to meet or even talk to any of the crystal ponies..."

"There’s crystal ponies!?" Rarity burst out unable to contain her excitement. "Oh... Pardon me, please continue..."

Twilight thought a moment before her face lit up. "A research paper! That must be part of my test! I love research papers!"

"Yeah... Who doesn't?" Dash asked sarcastically.

"Ooh... Ooh! Is it Spike?! Rick?! No, no wait! It’s me!" Pinkie burst out.

Armor shook his head with a slight smile looking over to his wife. "Whatever it takes Twily, please hurry..."

"Don't worry big brother I'm really good at this kind of thing."

We all split up to go our separate ways at the entrance of the palace hoping to question as many of the crystal ponies as we could. Spike went with Twilight and I went on my own, I had some specific questions to ask and I didn't want to get Twi too curious.

I found a small home near the outskirts of the city where I had seen a few curious ponies peeking out. As well there were a few of the crystal ponies out and about walking slowly mostly in pairs looking unsure of their surroundings, they all avoided me though and I couldn't blame them for that.

I tapped gently on the front door of the home I selected and after about a minute of waiting patiently the door cracked open and a pale blue / green eye peered out at me.

"Y... Yes?" Her voice was very soft with a musical quality to it.

I tried to smile as warmly as I could keeping my distance from the door. "I think you might have seen us coming in earlier, we're here to help. I just wanted to ask you some questions about the empire..."

"That... Seems reasonable..." Not surprisingly she still sounded unsure.

"We can do it right here I'll stay back here and..."

She opened the door slightly with a small headshake I could see her minty green and dark blue mane through the crack. "No, that would be rude... Please come in and I'll make some tea."

"If you’re sure..."

She moved away the door halfway open as invitation. I opened the door the rest of the way entering and revealing a small hallway, I just caught a glimpse of her tail as it swept around the corner it too was minty green and blue. "Please make yourself comfortable, I'll be right there."

I closed the door and made my way down the hallway, I could hear sounds from the kitchen and to the left I found a small and cozy living room. I took a seat on the fair sized couch there running over the questions I would ask when I felt a small tug on my hand. Surprised I looked down to find a small filly half hidden behind the side of the couch.

"Are you a monster?" She whispered. I could only assume her coloring came from her father because she looked nothing like her mother... Or who I assumed was her mother. She had a light grey coat and a bright pink mane and tail, even a bit brighter then Pinkies as well as a pair of big green eyes.

I leaned down with a smile to the cute little filly. "A monster? No I'm a human, probably the only one around. I don't mean you any harm though..."

"You better not!" I looked up again surprised to find a small colt balanced on the back of the couch looking equally ready to fight or run at the same time.

I held up my hands in surrender. "With a big brother like you watching over her I better watch my step!"

"That’s right...!" He smiled proudly hopping down to sit by his sister who had crept out into the open. He too had a slightly darker grey coat but his mother’s dark blue mane and tail his eyes were a dark brown.

"Hi..." The little filly squeaked hiding again but this time behind her brother making me grin.

"My name is... Starsing..." She whispered.

That made me smile again immediately thinking of Twilight and my own Starswirl.

"That’s a very pretty name." I complimented causing her to blush and hide again.

"And I'm... Brutal! Brutal Domination!" Her brother laughed flexing and showing off. His sister gave him a strange look rolling her eyes and leaning slightly closer to me.

"Um... No, his name is Aegis..."

"My idea was better." He grumped sitting back down.

"Here we are... Kids! I said to keep hidden until I said it was safe!" She was a very pretty pony but like everything in the empire something seemed wrong, it had been less obvious with the kids but she just didn't seem... Crystaly, her colors were dull and muted. Not what I had expected but I really didn't know. Luna’s description had made them seem more vibrant.

"Aww its ok mom, he didn't even try to eat us,"

"He said my name was pretty..." Starsing whispered hiding behind her mother’s legs now.

She blushed slightly pulling a tray off her back and placing it on the table in front of me. "Very sorry about them..."

"Don't be, their both adorable... I mean adorable and fierce!" I amended for Aegis causing him to grin.

"Thank you." She poured two cups of tea then sat across from still wary.

"Thank you... I'm Rick by the way." I began then taking a sip; the tea was unfamiliar to me but quite good.

"Oh...! My name is Marble Quill and this is my son Aegis and daughter Starsing."

"We told him already mom." Aegis rolled his eyes slightly stretching up and trying to reach the plate of cookies on the tray.

She nosed over two warning him. "Ones for your sister..."

"Fine."

He gave one to her then grabbed his own climbing easily up on the couch beside me.

"Now Aegis... You shouldn't..."

"It's your couch, really plenty of room for..." I was interrupted as I felt a push on my leg, looking down I found little Starsing trying to climb up the couch using my leg as a brace. It was so cute I couldn't help but smile, without really thinking I reached down and lifted her up with one hand gently depositing her beside me where she sat happily nibbling on her cookie. I wasn't really sure what they would feel like, rougher, cooler to the touch mayhap like the gemstones they were named for but Starsing was as soft and warm as any filly.

When I looked back over I found Marble looking at me wide eyed, I hoped she hadn't thought I would harm her children but I couldn't really blame her if she had.

She smiled warmly suddenly with a nod. "You’re quite good with them..."

"Well... I have a daughter of my own and another on the way..." The thought that I had a daughter, someone who depended on me not to mention a baby, a foal soon to born hit me like a kick in the chest every time it snuck up on me.

"Congratulations, their a trial and a blessing."

"Is your husband at home or...?" I asked looking around.

Her face fell tears welling up which she quickly blinked away. "He... He was 'asked' to go with the guards for... Questioning... It... Was just the other day but it seems like so much longer..." she shook her head forcing a smile. "But he'll be home soon! I'm sure of it."

"Those guards from that mean King..."

"Aegis! Shh... We don't talk like that!"

"Sombra..." I growled quietly.

"You... You know our... The king?"

"No, not personally. He’s not your king anymore, he’s been gone a long... Time."

"Gone...? But it was just..."

I held up my hand to stop her. "Sorry, it’s a long story. Princess Cad... I mean Princess Mi Amore Cadenza will surely want to talk to you all, after we deal with... Well once we make things safe... And your husband will be home soon, I'll find him myself." I just hoped I wasn't lying.

"You'll really bring my dad home?"

"Really? Daddy!"

They both pressed up against me looking up hopefully.

I'll do my best." I answered giving them both a pat on the back as I got up.

"Wait...! What about your questions?!"

"They can wait; my friends and wife are going around asking as well. This is more important." I nodded to her with a smile as I headed to the door.

She caught up to me just as I was about to exit. "If... If he’s..."

"I'll bring him home, any way I can."

"Thank you..."

"I'll see you two later ok? Be good." I called out to Aegis and Starsing who were peering around the corner as I left.

I oriented myself and headed straight towards the palace, it seemed likely I would find the dungeons there and if not Armor might be able to help me. when I arrived I decided to forgo searching first and headed straight to the throne room. Inside Cadence rested on the throne her horn still alight while Armor watched over her.

They both looked up as I rushed in. "What is it?!"

I walked up and shook my head. "Sorry. No big breakthrough from me. You ok Cadence?"

She smiled wanly nodding her head slightly.

"I was wondering if there was a dungeon or prison, something like that in the palace?"

They both thought for a moment. "Nooo... Ah! On the outskirts of town I recall seeing a building that didn't quite fit in on one of my patrols, to the west. What’s this about?" Armor asked.

"I don't know how much Princess Celestia or Luna might have told you... But there are likely Crystal ponies imprisoned there. Political prisoners I guess..."

"I see... How horrible. Go then, free them and thank you Rick..." Cadence whispered tiredly.

I knelt down before her taking one of her forehooves in my hand and kissing it. "Stay strong Cadence. For every pony here, for you and Armor but mostly for Shimmer and Prism. I know you can do it." I smiled taking my leave.

I exited the palace and started out when a voice rang from above. "Rick..."

I looked up to see Armor on the balcony pointing off to the side. "That way." He grinned.

"Thanks man!" I jogged along keeping as eye out, there seemed to be more activity around the city as if they had accepted our presence or mayhap the absence of guards to oppress them... I thought I saw Dash zooming past above a few times not to mention a pink and black shadow leaping from rooftop to rooftop... Pinkie...

I came to the edge of the city and maybe a block away from the outskirts was a squat stone building. Not very large but it certainly looked solid and had no windows. I approached trying the door and was surprised when it swung open easily. Inside it looked like nothing more then a typical guard’s barracks, armor and weapon racks all empty as well as four beds and two storage rooms.

I searched through the storage rooms first hoping to find... Well, anything! Spare uniforms... I tossed each of the beds hoping for... I still didn't know, a diary, some orders but nothing. I paced back and forth across the room trying to think of where else they might have kept prisoners...

Tap, tap, thud, thud...

What the...? A section of the floor felt different... Seemed to echo... Nothing looked different to my eyes plain crystal / stone all across but... I paced out and measured a section of the floor, looked like it could be a fair sized trapdoor of some sort. But how to open it...

I looked around for the most likely culprits; a lever would have been nice but no dice. Loose books of a mechanism on a chair leg, pushable piece of rock, torch scion... Nothing. I sat down on one of the beds trying to think... The beds!
They looked to be strong and sturdy but made out of simple wood I lifted one up a bit then another, the third one I tried only went up an inch then there was a click and that section of floor tipped up slightly then slid down into a holding area in the floor. How they hell did Sombra set all this up in less then a week...?! Hmm... The other option I suppose is that it had been here for some time used by rulers past... That wasn't really any better.

There were stairs leading down into darkness, I tried to summon a ball of light failing as I remembered I couldn't... I unhitched one of the lamps and lit it up carefully making my way into the darkness. I had to duck a little the angle of the stairs would be perfect for ponies but for me it was a bit uncomfortable.

The roof evened out thankfully when I reached the bottom and there was a door fortunately it wasn't locked, I cracked it open into another dark room but this one was occupied I quickly found. Another barracks with four beds but each of them was occupied... Sort of. The four crystal ponies in the room had been in total darkness but didn't react when I brought the light in, they were in various stages of dress one had his helmet on and nothing else another his hoofcovers and another his armor the last was fully armored staring straight ahead.

I waved my hand in front of their eyes but they were blank, the crystals... The ones Luna had told me about still were embedded in their flesh even more so then mine and Armors. When I touched one of them I drew my hand back immediately, he was cold and lifeless but he still drew breath, I forced myself to touch him again and I could feel his heart beating still. They were... Waiting? Cut off from Sombra did they have no will, no life of their own? I quietly backed towards the other door in the room; I hoped we could do something for them...

I backed into the and opened it still keeping my eyes on the frozen guards until the moment I closed the door, I admit I was more then a little freaked out. With the door close I breathed a small sigh of relief turning to see what other horrors I might find. Immediately to my left and right were small cells barely enough room for a pony to turn around in with nothing but a hole in the ground for a toilet. The cell doors were solid and thick barred with a slightly raised slit at the bottom I assumed for food and water to be pushed through.

These first two cells were empty as well as the few I could see beyond them but they stretched as far as I could see by the lamplight. I began walking slowly checking thoroughly, as I found nothing again and again I began to get worried when I heard something... Faint but in the distance coughing and a whispered conversation.

I rushed down the line finally coming to the end and another door but just before it the four cells were occupied. Just as I came up I managed to hear the end of the conversation... "Shh, their coming..."

The light revealed four crystal ponies they all shielded their eyes as I looked them over. All four of them were stallions the first very robust easily equal to Big Mac in size with a coal black coat and a surprisingly bright yellow mane and tail. The next was a slighter stallion and it was he who was coughing, he had a dark purple coat and a white mane and tail. The next two were adjacent to one another and I had to blink a few times and shake my head as they appeared identical. They both had cream colored coats and orange and black manes and tails.

They all started talking at once as I stopped.

"What do you want!?"

"You can't keep us here!"

"We need food and water!"

The other just coughed, even without examining him I could tell he needed to get out of here to a doctor. Damn this block, I could help him myself if only! I can still help him I realized; just have to get them out of here. They were all blinking away tears as I realized they must have been down here for awhile. I quickly moved the lantern behind me to shield them from some of the glare putting it down and tugging on one of the doors as I explained.

"I'm here to get you out, I'm not with Sombra."

With the dimmer light they seemed to recover somewhat peering out at me, the robust black stallion spoke up first recoiling from me.

"What are you? Another trick to get us to confess?!"

"Hang on there Bulwark..." One of the twins leaned closer squinting at me looking me in the eye. "I think he’s sincere..."

"You always try to give every pony the benefit of the doubt bro! Or whatever this thing is..."

"And how often am I right?" He shot back.

His brother sighed. "Almost always... Fine, what’s going on? Where are the guards?"

"There’s too much to explain right now... And it’s really not my place to. To sum it up Sombra is gone and you’re free... Past that things get complicated... Ugh! How do you open these damn doors?! There’s not even a keyhole?!"

Bulwark the black stallion looked at me curiously. "These cells are keyed to the guard, when they want them to open they simply concentrate and the door opens..."

I thought on that a moment. "Unfortunately their in no shape for that..."

He looked at me cautiously with a raised eyebrow. "Did you..."

"No... Nothing like that, its all part of the complicated bit... I'll just have to cut through!"

He let out a laugh. "Ha! They might just look like plain stone to you but they were fused by some of our finest stoneshapers."

I pulled out my dagger and tapped one of the bars with the hilt making a clear ringing noise like metal on metal. "They certainly are sturdy..."

"You have to be kidding! That little blade can't..."

He stopped and his jaw dropped as I slid the blade between the bars and to the door bolt. To his surprise and mine there was practically no resistance and it cut through with ease. I knew what it was capable of but still I had expected some resistance! I nearly dropped the blade in surprise but thankfully I was unable to. I mentally thanked Princess Celestia and Luna for their gift.

"Who... Who in Tarterus are you?!" Bulwark whispered as his cell door opened.

"Just a friend. Names Rick, royal knight of Equestria..." I added with a slight grin, the title still seemed like a bad joke... Me? A knight?

"Equestria? Princess Celestia and Luna...?" They gasped together.

"The same." I answered cutting through the twin’s locks one after the other.

"But... Sombra said he sent them away... That we'd never see them again!"

"That might have been his plan, but it’s not how things worked out..."

"So their here?!"

"No... Again still complicated, their niece will explain when she can. Princess Mi Amore Cadenza..."

I cut the last lock and helped up the slight stallion. He managed to croak out a "Thank you..." Before breaking out in another coughing fit, when he looked up at me though I saw a familiar pair of brown eyes.

I smiled and helped him down the hall following the twins and Bulwark who had the lantern balanced on his back. "Aegis and Starsing need their dad back..."

He gasped starting off another coughing fit but he removed from it quickly. "How do you...?"

"I met them earlier, they told me you'd been taken and my search led me here..."

"Their alright then?"

"The both of them and your wife. We'll get you to them as soon as we can... Wait. What’s past that last door? Are there more prisoners?"

"No...! No prisoner who ever went through that door ever came back... Just their screams..." Bulwark broke in looking back with a haunted look in his eyes.

I squeezed up to the front with the coughing stallion taking the lamp from Bulwark. "This... May be disturbing..."

"What do you mean?"

"Tell us!" The twins echoed.

"Just... Be ready and stay clam."

I opened the door and the light revealed the guards still in the same positions. Staring at them a moment one of the twins blanched barely keeping himself from throwing up; once he recovered the two of them supported the sick stallion making their way through the room to the far door.

Bulwark stood silently staring at the guards, I moved up and was about to speak when he beat me to it.

"I knew them..."

"You...?"

He sighed. "I was a captain of the old guard... Sombra replaced all of us old commanders when he took power. Maybe he did me a favour..." He turned to look at me his face solemn. "I've done a lot of things I'm not proud of... For King and empire I told myself... When I was replaced, tossed aside you would think I would be angry? Hell no, I finally felt free... I was selfish, the things I've done... I saw Sombra and at first I had hope, faith in him and the Princess’s... But things started to get bad, crackdowns, arrests... Rumours of torture and enslavement... So quickly... But I kept out of it, 'Not my business anymore...'"

He sighed again moving across the room to the door. "Took some ponies I cared about going missing for me to realize it wasn't going to get better, wasn't going to go away. I never did find them... For all the good I did, made it halfway to the palace before they took me down... My own comrades! Twisted by him... No idea what I was trying to do but... I just wanted to do... Something." He turned saluting the guards. "My comrades lost... Our empire... All for nothing."

"It’s not lost yet. They still live; I hope we can help them. But first things first, let’s get out of here."

He shook his head following me up the stairs. "Optimist eh? Well you got us out of here and that’s something... That’s a start."

We got out and exited the building they all looked better even in the suns dying light as we started towards Marble Quills house.

"I didn't get your names by the way, other then yours Bulwark. I'm Rick if you didn't hear before."

"Sorry... My name is Frolicking Smoke." He replied his cough seemed a bit better now out of the cold, damp and confining dungeon.

"He’s a fancy dancer for some of those really boring performances all over the empire even at the palace sometimes!" One of the twins leaned close with a grin.

"Just because you find them boring bro... Sorry, my names Jackpot Storm." He sighed as his brother sidled up with a wide grin. "And this is my highly irritating and thinks he’s oh so funny brother Jackpot Gambit... Some ponies call us JS and JG but please don't..."

"Ah common bro! It’s all in fun! We're so alike it helps ponies tell us apart!"

"Alike?! I could hardly imagine two more different ponies..."

"I mean physically." Jackpot Gambit chuckled.

"Oh... Right, fine! You were right this time... Knucklehead." He grinned affectionately at his brother.

Now that we were outside and I could see them better I had a chance to check out their cutie marks. Bulwarks I could have almost guessed a shield but not just any shield a tower shield strong and impenetrable.

Frolicking Smoke's was interesting what appeared to be a pony composed of smoke in the motions of dance... Made sense.

Jackpot Storm's was more difficult to understand a gathering of clouds tinged slightly with golden light.

And Jackpot Gambit's... Two pairs of six sided dice, two double sixes and two snake eyes... Not sure what that represented, extreme luck and bad luck all rolled up into one?

We walked along together slowly as they looked around amazed I imagined at the lack of guards or any signs of Sombra’s rule. Perhaps they could even feel the light and love Cadence was spreading...

"So... what happens now?" Smoke asked.

"Well first we get you home to rest and recover then..."

"Rick!" Rainbow Dash soared down landing in front of us giving the crystal ponies a start. She looked at them strangely for a moment.

"Dash! Good to see you. What’s up?"

"We're all supposed to meet back at the palace remember? And you’re late." She added with a grin and a nudge of her forehoof.

"Sorry got a bit sidetracked and lost track of time..."

"Ok, see you there!" She took off with a speed I imagine few Pegasus could ever manage before I even had a chance to introduce her.

I turned back to the guys to find all four of them staring after her slack jawed.

I laughed out loud. "Yup, she’s pretty awesome I know."

"That..."

"Those wings..."

"Her mane... How..."

"Where..."

I had to laugh some more. "That was Rainbow Dash, one of my friends. We're all here to help so don’t be too confused if you see some other unfamiliar faces around."

"I've read... Heard the old stories... Earth ponies, Pegasus... Even the few Unicorns who used to live..."

"What my brother is trying to say is... She’s amazing! Beautiful! She's... Um, not single is she?" Gambit grinned.

I shook my head with a grin. "So far as I know, but cool your hooves there Romeo... Anyhow I better get going, you guys will see Smoke home right? I promised he'd get there..."

"You know it." Bulwark smiled.

"If you have any questions... I'm sure you do! They should be able to tell you something at the palace, just say I sent you and hopefully they'll be able to answer some of your questions. But best wait a bit... Things are still turbulent."

I shook each of their hooves and headed back towards the palace while they made their way towards Smokes house. I turned to watch their silhouettes for a moment wishing them well and raising my arm in farewell. Hopefully everything was going to turn out...

I got back to the palace just as the last of the days light was fading to find the girls and Spike all waiting Twilight galloped up throwing herself in my arms as we kissed passionately.

"Missed you..." She whispered.

"Same here love." I held her a moment longer before we reluctantly separated finding everyone watching us with smiles.

"So what did you find out?" Twi asked.

I nearly smacked my self in the head. All that time spent with the guys and I hadn't thought to ask them anything! I smiled sheepishly mentally reminding myself to tell Twi everything later. "Sorry, didn't learn a thing..."

"We all struck out sugar; only thing I found out was something about a royal library of some sort..."

"Isn't that great?!" Twi burst out.

"We were just on our way there Rick." Rarity smiled.

"Well then, what are we waiting for?"

"That would be you slowpoke..." Dash grinned sarcastically.

We all laughed and made our way through the city to a very large and impressive building.

We entered and all oohed and ahhed. Twilight was more then a little dazzled.

"I just... I don't even know what to... There are no words."

"Can I help you?" Came a voice to the side of us, an older crystal pony with her light red mane and tail done up in buns and a pair of spectacles balanced on her muzzle a chain keeping her from dropping them her cute mark was a rolled up scroll.

Two hopped forward eagerly. "We’re looking for a book!"

She waved her hoof towards the shelves. "We have plenty of those..."

"You do. You really, really do..." She squealed spinning around. It was so adorkable I couldn't help scooping her up and kissing her soundly.

"Ahem! No making out in the library!' She glared at us disapprovingly.

Applejack chuckled stepping forward. "We were lookin for a book explaining how the empire might have defended itself... Ya know, back in the day?"

"Yes... That would be most useful... I... Aha!"

Everyone looked to her eagerly waiting for her to point us in a direction... And then we waited some more...

"And that would be...?" Twilight asked cautiously.

"I... I'm not sure... I don't know if I actually work here..."

"No problem, I'm sure we can locate it on our own!'

I set her down and we started into the vast stacks of books.

"Let me know if you find anything!" The librarian called out as she wandered out the front door.

"I like her!" Pinkie proclaimed with a big grin.

Applejack smiled leaning over. "Seems their all a bit like that, some kinda collective amnesia or somethin..."

Odd... Bulwark and the others hadn't seemed too dazed nor Aegis and Starsing... Marble Quill might have been a bit... Perhaps some crystal ponies were more resistant to Sombra’s curse then others...?

We began to sort through the seemingly endless rows of books; they stretched the entire length of the building and easily sixty feet in the air! There were rolling ladders thankfully to make finding what you need easier but we were looking for something very specific... It was going to take some time.

We sorted and searched tossing and setting books aside, Midway through the night we were all slowing down even Pinkie. Another few hours and most of us were passed out, Spike asleep in a pile of books, Pinkie curled up in a ball her legs twitching occasionally, Rarity had found or somehow brought a pillow and embroidered bed sheet and was fast asleep, Fluttershy too was curled up but in a small fort made of books I guess it made her feel more secure so far away from home. Dash snored away perched up on top of one of the bookshelves I hoped she didn't move a lot in her sleep, Applejack was still on her hooves but her head hung down occasionally trying to raise like she was still trying to work, I was yawning constantly well and truly ready to sleep but I stumbled along until I found Twilight.

She was still levitating a steady stream of books by peering at each her hair and mane all in disarray, she too was yawning. Just looking at her made me smile, I knelt down pulling her into my embrace kissing her neck.

"You need rest love."

"But... We have to find it!"

"I know, but what if we're too tired and miss it? Just a few hours."

"Well... I guess a few hours couldn't hurt." She kissed me softly lowered down all the books and snuggled down with me and we drifted off quickly...

I hoped we would find something soon, we were running out of time…

Interlude: A dream built for two.

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I woke up... Staring up at my stuccoed ceiling, it was a few minutes before my alarm would go off as usual. I switched it off my mind still wandering, wasn't I just in some sort of a library? Going to sleep in a pile of books...?

No, it was gone... I shook my head with a chuckle, just a dream... I briefly considered getting up just as a soft, warm purple armful rolled over onto me, Twilight...

I held her tightly breathing in her scent and stroking her silken mane thankful again this morning and a hundred times everyday she had messed up that spell sending her into that empty field that one fateful night as I was crossing it on my way to work.

She stirred snuggling against me. "Mmm... Do you have to go to work tonight?" She whispered.

"I do love, sorry."

She opened her eyes to look up at me. Those beautiful, hypnotic amazing eyes pressing forward to kiss me softly. "Aww..." She stretched sensuously against me kissing me again with need. "Well... At least we can make it a good morning..."

I grinned and embraced her with wild abandon our passion carrying us from the bedroom eventually to the bathroom and shower. Everyday I questioned my sanity even from the first moment I beheld her...

A small purple Unicorn swaying in a blackened circle, just the sight of a pony with a horn was strange enough! I stood there shocked until she opened her eyes and looked at me. 'Help me please...' She whispered before fainting dead away.

What could I do? Leave her? No. Call someone? I couldn't imagine anyone would believe me, not to mention I wasn't sure what would happen to her... So I did the only thing I could, hefted her up onto my shoulders with some difficulty and staggered my way back home.

I called in sick and tried my best to nurse her back to health. Kept her warm gave her water but mostly just stared at her...

The next night she still hadn't awoken but seemed no worse. I left water and what little fruit and vegetables I had and went to work. I rushed home fully expecting there to be nothing there, that it had all been a figment of my imagination...

But there she was still lying on the couch, not exactly as I had left her though and as I entered locking the door and putting away the groceries I had bought specifically for her I could feel her eyes on me.

Every time I looked back though her head was down. I made dinner for two with no meat probably the first time ever I had done so. I put the plate I had made up for her on the TV tray beside her and took a seat a short ways away.

"What’s your name?" I asked quietly.

Her eyes flew open and she stared at me in shock a moment as if just realizing I could talk. "T... Twilight Sparkle..."

"I'm Rick, nice to meet you... Sorry, I might be going crazy here... I... Never mind."

I started to eat as did she still watching me warily.

And that’s how things started. Questions, so many questions hers and mine. She had an unquenchable need to know... Everything! Thankfully I had Google. I hated to keep her cooped up in my small condo, she went through my books within a few weeks and started on my movies. I made sure she knew they were works of fiction. She was horrified enough by the news!

As full of surprises as she was there was always one more, a day or two after we met properly her horn lit up with a strange glow and a piece of fruit levitated to her mouth! After a lot of explanation I learned in her home of Equestria she could do amazing things with magic, but here it seemed her powers were very weak. She could barely levitate a full glass of water, I was still amazed and marvelled at it every time she used it.

Time passed as it always does and we learned more and more about each other somewhere along the line I moved from being amazed by her to liking her to falling in love...

I couldn't understand it, resist it or bring myself to share my feelings with her... But somehow, I don’t know… It just felt… Right. Like we belonged together…

Our first kiss was totally unexpected, we had been watching a movie close together sharing a blanket and when the movie ended I looked down and she was looking up at me biting her bottom lip looking unsure suddenly she pushed forward kissing me for several long amazing seconds...

She blushed heavily after we separated and fled to the washroom, I just sat there my mind racing until I knew what I had to do. I knew what I wanted... When she opened the door ten minutes later I was waiting kneeling there before her I smiled at her gently cupping her face in my hands and kissed her long and slow. One thing led to another and... Well I didn't sleep alone after that.

Three months we had been together when that happened, another passed and we were happy. So happy but I knew her heart ached for her home, family and friends. Even if this Princess Celestia came for her this very night when I was away I wouldn't regret a second of our time together...
I got ready for work and stood behind her at the computer while she searched through thing after thing. I had a strange feeling... A foreboding like I would never see her like this again...

I shook it off and rubbed her back softly kissing up her neck to gently nibble her soft ear making her gasp and giggle.

"Rick!"

"Have a good night love, miss you already..." I whispered to her.

"Love you." She whispered back craning her neck up so we could kiss.

I headed to the door turning to watch her a moment longer with a smile before exiting locking the door behind me.

When I turned I stopped in shock, the parking lot was gone... The street, houses even the ground was gone! Only a vast sky full of stars was all I could see.

"I believe I have mentioned before how envious I am of you and Twilight have I not Rick?" Came a voice from above me.

I turned to look up and everything came flooding back... "Luna!" I looked back towards my... Well the condo in my dream but it too was gone. "It was all so real..."

"Indeed, your mind makes it real. I rejoice to see what could have come to pass had Twilight ended up in your realm..."

"Shouldn't Twi be here too...?" I asked looking around.

"Indeed she would be if she were asleep... She did touch the dream realm but not for long." She smiled.

"I should have known." I chuckled.

"Sadly I cannot reach any of the Crystal ponies in the dreaming, only you and your companions... But no matter I am sure you will..."

"This is it!" Twilights voice echoed loudly throughout the stars and they began to fade.

"Luna..."

"Take care, be careful..." He voice a whisper as everything faded and I awoke...

Chapter 3 (What’s faire in the Crystal Empire?)

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"This is it!" I was jerked awake suddenly by Twilights excited cry, I rolled over to see the suns light just coming up and Twi’s big grin as she showed me the book 'History of the Crystal Empire' I smiled pulling her down to me kissing her. "I thought you were going to sleep?"

She blushed nuzzling against me. "I did...! For a bit, but Cadence...!"

I kissed her again. "I love you."

"I love you."

Everyone gathered and we looked through the book quickly before rushing back to the palace. We gathered in the throne room as Twilight explained about what we had found.

"A 'Crystal Faire'. According to this book, it was established by their first queen and became their most important tradition. The Faire was held every year to 'renew the spirit of love and unity in the empire so they could protect it from harm'. We all could put it together. Everything we need to know is in the book!"

"That sounds promising right honey?" Armor nudged Cadence gently but she didn't respond it looked like any spark of energy she had left was going into keeping the shield up. I didn't know how much longer she could last, I knew Alicorn’s were powerful but she had been going for days with no sleep and little appetite for food.

We gathered in a small meeting room to make a plan. Apparently even here the pony penchant for music still shone...

Song.

I stood back as they sang by mind still a bit fuzzy... Something about my old home... Twilight and Luna...? I couldn't remember, I would have to ask Luna later... If there was... No. Just later.

We separated up what we would need to do and got busy. It was going to be a lot of work for the eight of us but as soon as we left the palace I was pleasantly surprised to find some helpers.

Bulwark, Smoke, Gambit and Storm. I was happy to see Marble there as well and Aegis and Starsing who came galloping over as soon as they saw me.

"You did it!" They both cried out as I swept them up in a hug. Aegis hugged for a moment before pushing himself away embarrassed but Starsing clung to me crying a little.

"Thank you for bringing my Daddy home." She whispered making me squeeze her even tighter before I wiped her tears away.

"And who's this?" Twilight asked with a gentle smile causing Starsing to hide burying her head in my chest.

"This is Starsing and her big brother Aegis. Starsing, Aegis this is my wife Twilight Sparkle..."

"She’s pretty..." Starsing whispered still hiding her face shyly.

"You must be cooler then I thought." Aegis grinned as the rest of the girls gathered around cooing over him and Starsing.

"What are you all doing here?" I asked.

"Prince Shining Armor was nice enough to answer our questions this morning... Well, as much as he could so we thought we would stick around to see if you needed a hoof?"

"And to see Rainbow Dash again..." One of the twins whispered as his brother nudged him in the side, Gambit I was pretty sure.

I made introductions all around skipping over the part of how I met them for the time being. After that we all headed out to find the materials we would need to put on a fair! Everything came together incredibly smoothly, with Cadence and Armor’s permission to get what we needed not to mention the general malaise of the crystal ponies we had no issues getting all the materials and getting it set up.

Talking with Bulwark, Smoke, Storm and Gambit I quickly learned while they weren't as badly affected as the rest of the inhabitants of the empire they too had a mental block about a great deal of what happened during Sombra’s reign.

By midday we were ready, Twilight, Cadence and Armor were up on the balcony overlooking the fair along with Pinkie Pie eager to blow her flugel horn, she let out an out of tune but definitely loud enough blast to get some attention.

"Hear ye... Hear ye..."

Another blast of the horn drowned out Twilight. She, Cadence and Armor glared at Pinkie and she stopped with a sheepish smile. "Oops, sorry..."

"Hear ye! Princess Mi Amore Cadenza and Prince Shining Armor cordially invite you all to the crystal faire!"

Crystal ponies began to gather whispering and muttering to one another cautiously at first then in greater and greater numbers spreading out to see what the fair had to offer. As the crystal ponies began to interact with the fair, games and food a change came over them not all at once but one here and one there with a flash suddenly their coats, manes and tail brightened shining in the sun their eyes cleared and smiles returned to their faces.

I was assisting Fluttershy with her petting zoo surprisingly as was Bulwark the cute little lambs trotted about bleating and looking for snacks and attention. (To be honest I think he was a bit sweet on Fluttershy.) He was helping a couple of little fillies feed the lambs when suddenly a change came over him he seemed brighter, more aware. He stood up straight suddenly leaving the food with the fillies who were quickly surrounded by lambs making them shriek with delight.

He quickly came over to me pulling me aside with a hushed whisper. "I remember... I remember it all now! The heart... The crystal heart!" At my blank look he shook his head and continued. "It’s an artifact! Been a part of the empire for as long as anyone can remember... Hell the empire might have even been built around it! It’s the source of our protection! The faire is where we all gather to charge it! The magic within each of us..." He hesitated for a moment unsure then continued. "Out love and hope is what powers it! And in return it keeps out anything that might harm us! Don't you see?! That’s why Sombra did it! Wore us all down, turned us against one another... It weakened the heart so much it couldn't fight him... Neither could we... He told everyone he'd hidden it, that we would never see it again! How did you find it!?"

"Uhhh..." I remembered Twi saying she had carved a crystal heart from a chunk of crystal but I really didn't think that was going to do it. "I..."

Thankfully I was saved by a piercing whistle from above, Dash was looking down at me gesturing franticly back toward the palace.

"I'll be right back Bulwark, just stay with Fluttershy eh?"

He blushed slightly looking over at her; I didn't have the heart to tell him she already had someone...

I jogged back towards the palace nonchalantly trying not to alarm anyone just trying to look like I was rushing from one attraction to the next. I burst into the throne room just in time to hear Twilight.

"I didn't know it was an actual relic! How could I have missed it?!”

"It's alright, Twilight..." Cadence began but her energy gave out as her eyes rolled up into her head and she fainted dead away.

"Twily..." Outside the shield fluttered and fell the storm began blowing through along with something much worse, Sombra’s huge smoky form passed the line that had kept him out his howl or triumph was barely audible here but we were in trouble...

"The Empire is under attack!"

Twi! Love and Light... The light can drive him back! Make the brightest light you can! Try to make it look like part of the celebration...

She nodded her horn lighting up as she concentrated and suddenly fireworks lit up the sky bursting over the celebration entertaining and distracting, further away especially large and bright bursts lit up in front of Sombra driving him back time and again no matter what direction he tried to gain entry from... But strong and as talented as Twilight was she didn't have the power of an Alicorn. I held her tightly whispering words of encouragement in her ears as sweat began to roll off her and her legs began to shake...

Cadence lifted her head shaking off the cobwebs quickly empowering her spell, as Twilight collapsed against me I heard Sombra’s cry of pain and anger as smashed one more time against the closing barrier, looking up I saw his smoky form pushed back a piece of his horn broken off and falling to the ground...

"You ok Twi?" She gasped and nodded. "Cadence?" I looked over but she couldn't answer all her concentration, all her will was going to keep the shield up.

"I'll find that heart myself!" Armor rose up to his hooves.

"No! Princess Celestia gave me this task brother. She needs you..."

He sat back down deflated leaning against Cadence trying to give her any bit of energy he could. "Hurry..."

I followed Twilight out of the palace running into Spike on his way in.

"I want to come along!"

"You can't Spike..."

"I know, I know... I won't lift a claw to help you!"

She sighed with a smile. "Okay Spike, not a claw."

He hopped up on her back and we started out only to have her stop suddenly.

"What?" I asked.

"I think I know where we should start looking..." She turned around leading us back to where we came from.

"The palace?"

"Sombra knew no pony would dare to look in his palace it was too well defended and they would be too scared to even try!"

Anyone but Princess Celestia and Luna... I thought to myself.

We ran from room to room Spike and I watching as Twilight desperately searched. Suddenly she had another epiphany. "Got it!" She led us to the throne room Cadence and Armor were gone likely to the balcony to watch the fair and get her some fresh air.

"Where could he have hidden it in here?" I wondered aloud.

"Here! But not really here because this isn't how the throne room looked when he ruled!"

She closed her eyes and concentrated her horn began to glow a disturbing dark purple and green her eyes flew open and it shot a beam of energy at a crystal atop the throne. Her eyes... Gone were they eyes I loved replaced by those green and red orbs the same disturbing smoke coming off them as Sombra’s.

I almost yelled out... Tackled her to break her concentration anything to make it stop! But almost as soon as it had begun it was gone... The crystal reflected that dark power before it; the floor disappeared revealing a dark spiralling staircase leading deep down.

A cough from Twilight drew my gaze back to her; Spike was already trying to steady her. Her face was blanched and she looked unsteady on her legs. I was by her side in an instant holding her tight.

"I feel sick..."

"I'm sorry Twi; maybe you best not do that again... Ever."

"I... I think that would be for the best.' She smiled weakly.

The three of us peered over the edge into the deep darkness below...

"Maybe..."

"You better stay here Spike." Twi interrupted him looking much better already.

He looked a bit relieved. "Well... Ok, if you say so."

Twilight and I traveled down the stairs about thirty feet; we could still see the top and Spike looking down at us.

"How deep is it?" He called down.

"No idea..." I answered as Twilight broke off a piece of crystal letting it drop. We both listened... And listened, her hearing was of course better then mine and she reacted a second before me to the clack down below.

"How does it look outside Spike?!" She called up, he dissappeared and was back in a moment.

"It’s not good! Hurry!"

We looked at each other then started down the stairs as quickly as we could safely, after a few minutes we reached the bottom both of us breathing heavily. All there was at the bottom of the stairs was a blank room with one door a crystal atop it.

"This must be it!" She grabbed the door handle telekinetically trying to pull it open but it yanked itself from her grasp sliding along the wall to the other side of the room! I lunged forward grabbing the handle only to be pulled off my feet careening around the room as it took me for a wild ride. I let go before it took me too high and it settled back down in its original position.

"I'm going to have to do it..."

"I..." I knew how dangerous this magic could be, even though we had no other choice I still didn't want her to touch it ever again... But from what Luna had told me it didn't seem like Twilight was being corrupted, it had only been the one time but it seemed her body... Her mind, psyche and soul rejected it... Fought it. I had to trust... No. I knew she was strong enough to handle it. "I know love, be careful."

She nodded getting herself ready then letting the Dark magic flow through her, I was holding her this time and I could feel it... Like an oily residue flowing over you... She fired a quick blast at the crystal atop the door then immediately released it and would have fallen had I not been holding her.

"Oh Celestia, it hurts..." She groaned.

I immediately opened myself to her taking the pain and for one agonizing moment wished I hadn't... A burning like real fire covering my entire body even so briefly and suddenly it was her turn to support me.

"You shouldn't have done that... I have to do this on my own...! But thank you... Wait?! How did you do that? I thought your magic was blocked?"

We checked and surely enough the crystals remained but I could still feel my connection with Twilight and that alone allowed me to do things that even Sombra couldn't stop.

I kissed her softly and we both stood up. "Ready?"

"Ready." Together we walked up to the door and opened it...

A blinding light overwhelmed me and I had to cover my eyes, a few moments later it dimmed and I could finally see I blinked in surprise, it looked like... Ponyville hospital? I was sitting on a bench alone occasionally orderlies and nurses passed by avoiding my gaze and unspoken questions. I was about to try to stop one to ask what was going on when a nurse I recognised came up to me, Redheart.

"Come with me please..." She whispered turning immediately to lead me off.

"What’s going...?"

"I don't... I can't... I'm sorry." She led me in silence through hallways and down a staircase to a door. "I'm sorry..." She whispered again backing away.

"Wait, what...?" But she was gone.

The door was plain and unadorned but... I was afraid. Afraid of what might be behind it... What was I doing here? I reached out powerless to stop myself; the door swung open revealing a dimly lit room. I didn't want to go in but my feet were already moving, the door swung shut behind me leaving me to stare at the contents of the room...

Two tables... One a normal size and the other small side by side both shrouded with sheets shapeless mounds below them. I tried to stop... To scream... Anything! But all I managed was a strangled gasp as my hand reached out of its own accord grasping the sheet and slowly pulling it down...

I knew what it would show me somehow, I tried to block it out! Close my eyes! But I couldn't... Twilights still form was slowly uncovered her color drained and muted, her mane stringy and matted...

"No, no, no, no..." I heard echoing around the room, it took me a moment to realise it was me...

My tears blurred my vision as I reached out again grasping the sheet on the smaller table pulling it slowly down. A tiny purple bundle, fur still matted and bloody... I thrust the sheet back grabbing my head in my hands falling to my knees. "No... Not real... Not real...! Twilight... Starswirl... I'm so sorry... So..."

"Rick! Snap out of it!"

A scaly hand slapped me across the face bringing me to my senses. I shook my head trying to clear it wiping my tears away.

"Spike... What... What happened?"

"I don't know! I waited, and waited! You were taking so long, I called down but got no answer so I came down and found you both just staring at this door! Look at Twilight!"

I looked over quickly; she was still staring at the door her eyes dark swirling with green and red as tears poured out of them.

"What’s so special about...?” I heard Spike behind me as I gently pulled her away turning her from the door breaking her concentration. "Twi... Come back... I love you, please..." I was still reeling from my own experience, I couldn't lose her! Not again!

She gasped suddenly her eyes returning to normal, she focused on me and threw herself forward into my embrace. We held each other tightly both of us crying.

"I... I don't know... You... You left me alone... Took Scootaloo, took Starswirl! Left me for Princess Celestia...! Why...? Why would you do...?"

I tilted her head up and kissed her hard again and again. "I wouldn't... Never leave you, not for anyone, not for anything! I'm yours Twi, yours and yours alone forever."

She sniffed as I wiped her tears away favouring me with a small smile. "I know... Even through it all I knew it couldn't be true but still... Spike!"

I turned quickly again grabbing him and pulling him over to us breaking the doors hold on him. We held him tightly between us as he sobbed. "Mom... Princess Celestia sent me away... So did you Twilight. I... I was alone... No one loved me..."

"That’s never going to happen Spike." She comforted running her forehoof over his head gently.

She drew a deep breath and we turned to face the door again.

"A door that shows you your worst fears... Well how about this!" Her horn lit up again but this time pure light streamed out lighting up the gem above the door making the whole thing glow. The door swung open easily and we found ourselves in as open area somehow high atop the palace.

"What’s out there guys?" Spike asked cautiously.

Twilight gave an exasperated sigh. "More stairs... Maybe you better come with us this time Spike.

The three of us started up the stairs; they looked as if they went up for miles.

"So... If Sombra made a door that shows us our worst fears..." All three of us shuddered slightly at that. "What if he made a staircase that goes on forever...?" Spike asked.

Twilight looked up then down thinking. "Good point Spike." She levitated him onto her back then stood close to me. "Hold on tight." She smiled as her horn lit up and I leaned down putting my arms around her neck.

"What are you...?”

Suddenly we flew over upside down landing on the backside of the staircase! It was smooth and we immediately began to slide.

"I studied antigravity spells because I thought they might be part of the test! Turns out I was prepared for this!" She grinned.

We picked up speed quickly, sparks were flying from Twi's hooves and I could feel the soles of my boots heating up and wearing down... Rarity was going to be pissed!

Twilight squealed in delight somehow ignoring Spikes claws digging into her side, her excited look made me grin. Oh what the heck...

"Yahoooo...!"

Suddenly we reached the end of the staircase flying up into the air, Twi quickly cancelled her spell and we landed in a pile together. I certainly didn't mind Twi laying on me but I could definitely do without Spikes tail jabbed into my side.

And there in the center of this open Parthenon like room floating between two crystal spires was what I could only assume was the heart! Looking like it had been flawlessly carved from a single huge sapphire.

"We found it!" She squealed excitedly galloping off.

"Wait...! What if there’s another...?" I took off immediately after her almost reaching her as razor sharp dark crystals thrust up from the floor, I hadn't been quite far enough along and was caught mid jump the crystals slicing into my thighs flipping me over cutting through my pants and into my flesh. Unfortunately I crashed right into Twi knocking her off balance and bouncing the crystal heart out of her grasp and out of the trapped area we were in!

"The heart! Oh Rick! Are you ok?"

"The hearts ok Twilight!" I heard Spike call out as she franticly tried to heal the gashes in my legs. In her sleep deprived, exhausted and fearful state she still managed to close them stopping the bleeding.

"Thanks love." I gave her a quick kiss and we helped each other up. We could barely see beyond the dark crystal blocking us, the heart was lying out in the open Spike beside it hopping back and forth unsure of what to do.

Twilight leaned against me expending a bit more of her precious energy to teleport us out. I could feel a resistance... Like a rubber band stretched tight it slammed us back into the trap.

"Twilight! The shields down! What do I do?!" Spike cried out.

I cut one of the crystals nearly in two with my knife pushing it to snap it off making space for us to squeeze out but before I could even lift Twi up it regrew blocking us again.

"Dammit... Twi?"

She stood a second thinking. "Take the heart to Cadence Spike."

"But Twilight your test!"

She leaned against me with a small smile. "Doesn't matter Spike, there’s too much at stake. Go quickly!"

"But..."

"Go!"

He quickly grabbed the heart avoiding dark crystal growths that had begun to sprout up all over and around the whole city I imagined. He made his way out onto the surrounding balcony and out of sight.

We sank down together exhausted. "I guess I won't be Princess Celestias student anymore..." She sighed.

"Don't be silly Twi, you came up with the plan to save everything here she'll see that."

"I guess... Honestly it would be a bit of a relief! Being her student is a great honour and I love it but... I just try so hard to please her... Maybe too hard sometimes..." She admitted with a smile. "Its just stressful is all; a little time to be a wife and mother would be nice too..."

"You could just ask for some time, especially when..." I rubbed her belly softly for emphasis.

"I... You know, I never thought of that!" She giggled.

We held each other tightly awaiting salvation or damnation when suddenly I could feel something... A building pressure from below expanding out and before it a shriek of pure hatred...

"Impossible!"

A wave of pure energy... Light, love and hope blasted through cutting that cry short, disintegrating the dark crystal all around us the brightness growing and growing until I had to shut my eyes.

Slowly the light dimmed and I could hear cheering down below as I opened my eyes. I felt much better; the cuts across my legs didn't hurt any more, my weariness and fatigue gone. And Twilight... She shone like the sun sparkling and shimmering.

She looked over at me her eyes going wide. "Rick...?"

I looked down at myself, my hands, skin; hair all appeared to be made of crystal! I touched my hands together and they still felt normal, Twilight reached out with her forehoof to caress the side of my face gently an act I copied on her.

"And here I thought you couldn't get any more beautiful..." I smiled.

"Amazing...!" She gasped as we pressed together to kiss. She jumped suddenly thinking of something pulling up my shirt revealing no black crystals her cutie mark on me undamaged.

Testing my powers I levitated her up and into my arms.

"Oh thank Celestia..." She whispered nuzzling against me.

"Mayhap you should thank somepony else?" Came a voice to the side a crystalline Cadence folded her wings back revealing a very shiny crystal dragon. "Or perhaps that should be some dragon?" She added slyly planting a kiss on the side of his head.

"Awww... I just did what Twilight told me too..." Spike blushed.

I let Twilight down and she rushed over to levitate him to her hugging him tightly. I got up and walked over to them Cadence smiled and nodded to me.

"Don't forget to thank yourself Twilight, without you none of this would have been possible."

"I guess... We'll see what Princess Celestia has to say..."

"She will be proud of you, I'm proud of you!" She smiled the two of them hugging. "That much is certain. Now, there is a faire to be enjoyed and I finally have the energy to do so!" She laughed spreading her wings and swooping out off the balcony. "Care to join me?" She asked with a wink her horn flashing teleporting us down to the balcony overlooking the fair. Spike stood tall on Cadences back waving to everyone.

"Princess Mi Amore Cadenza! Princess Mi Amore Cadenza! The gathered ponies cheered.

"Please... Just call me Cadence." She waved out to the crowd.

"Princess Cadence! Princess Cadence!"

She waved a few minutes longer with Spike before joining and leading us back into the palace taking our time to get back outside.

"Honestly I don't deserve all this adoration. Twilight you and your friends played a much bigger part..."

"Oh really? Maybe it was some other Princess in here holding off Sombra to the last of her energy and beyond?" I asked with a grin.

"It wasn't that big of a deal..."

"Cadence! Without you we never would have had time to set things up! The empire would have fallen before we even..."

"Ok, ok...!" She grabbed us both with her wings pulling us close. "Still, thank you Twilight for putting it all together. And thank you Rick for reminding me who needed me the most. And don't think I've forgotten you Spike! Thank you for being so courageous."

"Aww, thanks..." He blushed as we exited the palace into a throng of awaiting ponies Armor among them waiting to escort his wife to the fair and every crystal pony in the empire who wanted to meet them both.

We watched the three of them go before turning to one another. "Shall we enjoy the fair my love?"

She smiled dazzlingly up at me and we made our way side by side out into the fairgrounds trying some of the games, partaking of the delicious food and visiting with our friends who all looked beautiful crystal transformed as they were. Rarity of course was especially pleased by her transformation hoping it would last and she could show off in Canterlot.

After a few hours I could see Twilight was beginning to range further and further out to the edge of the fairgrounds and I had a pretty good idea why. With a grin I scooped her up into my arms kissing her cheek.

"Oh!"

"Never change Twi."

"What do you mean?" She asked resting her head in the crook of my shoulder.

I started carrying her away from the fairgrounds back into the city.

"Where are we going?"

"Oh I thought we might check out the library again..." I grinned.

"Really?! Oh... I mean if you really want to..." She blushed slightly.

I laughed kissing her again. "Making you happy makes me happy love. And I would like to take a second look too."

She squealed happily as I let her down and galloped off with me in tow.

How could I be in love with a pony? An animal? People would no doubt ask me if they could see me now, watching her my only answer to them would be... How could I not be?

Before too long we reached the library, it was abandoned of course as was I imagined most of if not all of the rest of the city. Twi's first order of business in the library? Clean up all the books we had gone through naturally putting every book back on the shelves in their proper place. Well... Minus a few here and there we wanted to check out.

She hummed happily as she worked looking over to me occasionally more often then not to find me watching her while I worked.

"What?!" She asked with a slight blush.

I put my last book away and walked over to her kneeling down to kiss her passionately. "You’re so cute Twi, so beautiful. I love everything about you from your hooves up to your mane, from the tip of your tail to the tip of your horn... My wife, lover and the mother of my child. I can't ever express how much you mean to me though I'll keep trying..."

She blushed furiously kissing me back urgently. "I... I never thought I could mean that much to anyone... Never thought I could feel so much for anyone..." Her tears streamed down her face, liquid diamonds from a crystalline goddess. "Even though we've been together for almost a year... I... I want more! Ten years. A hundred, a thousand, ten thousand!"

"I would give them to you if I could love. Would you settle for the rest of our lives? I'll always be with you as long as you'll have me."

"Then you'll always be with me." She whispered.

We made our way with our pile of books to one of the libraries large reading areas sinking into a large comfortable chair together each of us opening a book and perusing. Enjoying each others closeness, warmth... Just enjoying each other.

I heard the library door open and looked up briefly but didn't think too much of it until I heard some hoof clicks searching up and down the stacks before a familiar orange and black maned head appeared around a shelf.

"Rick! Hey guys I found him!"

"Quiet Gambit! This is a library." His brother admonished following him around the corner.

"What?! We're the only ones here..."

Bulwark and Smoke followed them; they all looked quite different their natural crystal forms showing, sparkling and dazzling. Smoke looked very well no sign of his former illness showed at all to my relief.

"Good to see you guys, I thought you'd still be enjoying the fair?"

"Oh we have and we will some more we just wanted to see you and thank you again."

"Well thanks Bulwark but really I had a small part, Twi's the mastermind here..."

I nudged her gently and she looked up from her book. "Oh! Hi..."

I grinned as we untangled from one another the better to converse.

"Mrs. Sparkle." Bulwark nodded.

"Twilight." Smoke smiled.

"Nice to see you again, glad your plan worked." Storm complimented.

Gambit leaned over by me and whispered with a sarcastic grin. "Seriously, you so don't deserve that..."

I chuckled giving him a punch in the shoulder. "So what happened while we were inside the palace? We couldn't exactly see from where we were."

We all settled down comfortably as Bulwark started. "Well... Shortly after you left the shield must have been getting weak because the guardsmen... The ones who had been corrupted began appearing again; slowly just on the outskirts but we spotted them. They came in ones and two; I couldn't let them hurt anypony at the faire so I did what I had to do..."

"You should have seen him Rick! Two, four even six of them were no match for him!" Gambit broke in excitedly.

"Four at the most guys come on..." Bulwark blushed.

Storm shook his head continuing with a grin. "We tried our best to help, I'm not much of a fighter but my brother gave as good as he got! And Smoke was amazing! They couldn't lay a hoof on him, he twirled, he spun and they were at a loss!" He laughed.

Smoke blushed slightly. "Not a big deal... But there were just too many for us to deal with, it was looking like we were going to get captured... Again! When out of nowhere decked out in ceremonial armor Rainbow Dash smashed through them her lance and hooves knocking them every which way! Then she zipped off again, something about having to joust with Fluttershy again..."

Gambit broke back in. "Applejack and Pinkie Pie came to help too, that Applejack is amazing with a rope! And strong! She might even be able to give Bulwark a run for his bits..." He grinned. "And Pinkie Pie had a knack for just plain avoiding anything they threw at her not to mention she was really good at leading and taunting them straight into ambushes!"

Just imagine if they ever saw you in action love they wouldn't be able to pick up their jaws for a week!

You! I'm glad they were able to keep things safe, you certainly made some interesting friends.

"Once we had them under control and Applejack had them securely tied we headed back tot he faire to make sure everything was still alright. Just before we got there we felt a… Shudder. Throughout the whole city, turning to look we saw the shield was down! We galloped to the faire trying to keep everyone together, keep them from running to their homes. If you were successful we would need every one of us to power the heart, and if you failed... Well, it wouldn't matter where we were." Bulwark fell silent with that grim thought.

Storm cleared his throat and continued. "We could all see the approaching darkness, as it got closer it began to coalesce into a form we all once loved but now reviled... Sombra, returned to his pony form and full strength. He leaned down leering at us from atop a dark crystal pillar, 'Ahh my crystal slaves...' That would have been the straw that broke us but someone called out! 'Up there!' It drew all out gazes up to find that little Dragon friend of yours... Stab? No, Spike! Teetering high above us trying to climb down the crystal formations and even though he was quite far up still we could all see... Feel the heart in his position!"

"Sombra must have been able to sense it too! His tower erupted pushing him upward so fast! Just as we saw Spike slip and fall! The heart was at the tips of his claws as he fell he tried to grab it! We could only watch helplessly as he fell, if Sombra interrupted him we were doomed but if he missed and the heart hit the ground... If it broke... Well no one knows what would happen... Likely the end of us all... Oh and your friend Spike too, sorry..." Gambit went silent after bursting in again his brother giving him a comforting hug.

"But we were saved, I don't know how the Princess did it but she flashed through the air impossibly fast snatching Spike and the heart right in front of Sombra! She swooped down the heart levitated in front of her. 'Quickly!' She urged us as the heart flew into its traditional resting place we poured everything we had into it! Everything we'd lost, all out fears and worries pushed aside for that glorious moment... There was nothing but light, love and hope. The joining of our entire race in a single instant... It expanded out from the heart replenishing us all, destroying the dark crystals that had taken over the city and those within our bodies too..." Smoke continued smiling at the memory.

"Sombra stood against the power of the heart but even with all his Dark magic he could only stand for a moment, he was torn apart, scattered... Destroyed? I don't know. We can only hope…” Bulwark finished looking down; suddenly he brought up his head with a grin. "And here we are, free... I guess, no King... what are we going to do now?"

"If you trust Princess Celestia, Princess Luna and Cad... I mean Princess Cadence, they'll have a plan. They'll know what to do..." Twilight smiled.

We all talked a bit more; we filled them in on our experiences in finding the heart before we all went back out to see the end of the celebration. Cadence and Armor insisted we stay at the palace promising everyone gathered that there would be an announcement tomorrow. 'But for tonight... Sleep, rest safely... For the first time in a thousand years...'

The next day held plenty of surprises, the first of which was that our 'crystalness' had faded. That was fine by me, it was very interesting but honestly I stood out enough without looking like a human disco ball. Clearly the effects of our victory here were being felt in Equestria as well as when we awoke we found a scroll lying on the bed on top of us. Twilight unrolled it and we read...

My most faithful student Twilight

I never had a doubt you would find a solution. Cadence, Armor and Spike have filled me in on the events that transpired but I look forward to hearing from you when you return. But first the empire must have a ruler... Luna and I are giving our blessing to Cadence and Shining Armor to be those rulers. In the end it must be the Crystal ponies who make the choice to accept them; I would not force anything on them especially after all they've been through... What we've all been through...

I owe you explanations, more detailed ones... Both of you, I hope you can understand... Forgive me... Twilight, Cadence will need you, your organizational skills and knowledge. Please take your time and assist her. I look forward to seeing you both again, take care.

Warmest regards.

Celestia

"I wonder what she means by a more in depth explanation...?"

"I owe you one too love..."

"What...?!"

We cuddled together as I began to explain, starting from the very moment she walked into the palace in Canterlot up until the moment the power of the heart washed over us and I finally knew we were successful, she was successful.

She was mad, I expected that but she wasn't nearly as angry as I thought she would be. With my explanation and after thinking about it a bit she could understand why Celestia didn't give her the whole story, personally? I was still a bit miffed. My wife, my child endangered! But... At least I was there and things turned out for the best for everyone.

It was nearly nine thirty in the morning when I finished surprisingly no one had disturbed us yet.

She turned her back to me in a huff. 'I can't believe you did that..."

I rubbed her back kissing her neck; at the very least she didn't pull away from me. "I'm sorry love, I promised Luna though... You know I would never let anything happen to you."

She spun back over to face me angrily. "You can't foresee everything! And then going off into that dungeon alone, what about that?!"

"They needed their daddy back... I promised them too..."

She sighed heavily the anger running out of her. "You and your promises... What about your promises to me? To Scootaloo...? Starswirl...?"

I felt like a real heel, guilt, guilt, guilt... "I'm sorry Twi... But I..."

She stopped me gently placing her forehoof on my lips. "You have to be you..."

I grasped her hoof and kissed her gently.

"I'm still mad at you..." She whispered.

"Can't I make it up to you in some way...?" I asked kissing her again and down her jaw line to her neck making her gasp.

"N... No... I'm mad...! Mad..."

"I'm very sorry Twi; you know your everything to me." I kissed lower rubbing her soft belly and kissing it.

"I know... But..."

"I'm sorry..." I kissed a bit lower. "I'm sorry..." A bit lower and then... Well, one of us was quiet.

Afterward we cuddled together basking in her afterglow.

"I'm still mad..." She whispered nuzzling against my neck. "But I love you."

"I love you Twi." I held her tightly warm and content together.

Tap, tap, tap... A very light rapping so quiet I wasn't even sure I heard it.

"I wonder who that could be?" Twilight asked.

I got up putting on my pants as I approached the door hopping on one leg trying not to fall over eliciting a giggle from Twi. I opened the door revealing a very, very red faced Fluttershy.

"I... I was asked to come get you..."

"Oh Fluttershy! Is it time for Cadences announcement?" Twilight asked.

"Soon... She sent me to get you early... About a half an hour ago... I... I didn't want to... Interrupt."

Now it was Twilight and I's turn to blush. "You uh... Heard that did you Fluttershy? Heh, sorry..." I apologized.

"Oh... Its ok, I'm glad you’re both so... Happy..."

I finished getting dressed as Twilight used the washroom. "Trouble with you and Trixie? I asked gently.

"No, no. I just miss her, she's going to be going on tour with Sapphire Shores again soon... I'm really going to miss her then... But she loves it so much I want her to go!"

"I know how you feel."

We headed out and I tried to remember my way through the labyrinth of palace corroders while Twilight and Fluttershy walked a short ways behind me their heads together whispering. Whenever I looked back they stopped both of them giving me a smile starting right back up when I turned away, it’s almost enough to make a guy nervous...

Eventually we reached one of the main hallways I recognised and we quickly made our way to the throne room to find everyone waiting of course.

"Jeez Fluttershy what took you so long? You get lost?" Dash asked.

"Oh! No, they were... Um... Busy."

Dash processed that for all of a second before bursting out laughing everyone else smiling along knowingly as we blushed.

Cadence and Armor rose. "I hoped to have more time to discuss everything..." She smiled at us with a wink. "But we'll have plenty of time later. Princess Celestia and Luna have given us their blessing and recommendation for Armor and I to be rulers of the Crystal Empire...!" She drew a deep breath as Armor leaned against her giving her strength. "I hope her faith is not misplaced..."

"Of course it isn't Cadence! You and my brother will be amazing rulers! You'll be so far away though..." Twilights ears went down as she came to that realization.

Armor walked over giving her a hug. "Just a train ride away Twily, same as always. Just a little longer." He grinned.

Cadence nodded with a smile. "It will be up to the Crystal ponies to make the final decision though... It's time."

Cadence and Armor walked out to the edge of the balcony while the rest of us hung back watching and listening.

"Ponies of the Crystal Empire! We come before you today to offer ourselves to you! My husband Shining Armor and I wish to help you, lead you, if you will..."

She never got any further then that. She was drowned out by an overwhelming cheer that swept across the crowd growing, swelling and not stopping. For ten minutes the ponies of the Crystal Empire made it clear who they wanted to be their new rulers as Cadence's tears of gratitude fell she and Armor leaning together.

Things moved quite quickly after that, every business, every farmer, every pony. Cadence wanted to know them all. We spent another day just getting things arranged and organized. A ceremony crowning Cadence and Armor would have to wait for now it was decided, there was still a lot to do.

Unfortunately it had been some time that we had been here and I had a job of my own to do back in Ponyville, Twilight was still needed here though so that night we stood at the train station to say our goodbyes. Pinkie and Rarity were staying for awhile with Twilight to help out while Applejack, Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash needed to get home, Spike as well was on his way back to Canterlot.

I held her tightly never wanting to let go. "I miss you already..."

"It’s only a week..." She reasoned but the tears in her eyes told another story.

"Hurry home... Come back to me." I whispered.

"I will... I love you."

"I love you."

We kissed one last time and I boarded the train sticking my head out the window to watch her as we pulled away. We waved to one another until the snow blocked our view and I slid back inside sinking down in my seat.

It was going to be a long week...

Interlude: Even Angels get the sniffles.

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It was a long train ride back, admittedly I was a bit depressed but I tried to get over it chatting with the others and looking forward to getting home and seeing my little Angel.

"If'n you’re lookin for something to do during the week you know you an Scootaloo are always welcome anytime down on the farm. We got plenty to keep ya busy." She winked with a smile.

"I might just take you up on that Applejack thanks."

"Your always welcome to help with my animal friends too Rick."

"Thanks Fluttershy."

"I guess I could come keep you company someday too... I've been meaning to re-read the Daring Do books before the new one comes out anyhow. But no cuddling!" She grinned sarcastically sticking her tongue out at me causing us all to laugh.

"You’re too kind Dash." I replied sticking my tongue out at her in return. "How about you Spike? Glad to be getting home?"

"You bet! I can't wait to see my Mo... I mean Princess Celestia..." He blushed.

I smiled knowingly. "I know she'll be very happy to see you too buddy."

I did feel a bit better, I was going to and already did miss Twi like crazy but with good friends and Scootaloo to see me through I'd be fine...

We disembarked the train a little after noon on the third day of travel; there were plenty of ponies waiting to go to Canterlot the next stop of the train. I bid my friends goodbye as did we all to Spike who was staying on the train and I started to make my way through the crowd. It was busy but even above the hustle and bustle I could hear something...

"Uncle, uncle, uncle!!!"

My face lit up as a little colt and a little filly broke through the crowd galloping towards me, behind them in the crowd I could see Mr. and Mrs. Sparkle watching with smiles.

I scooped them both up in my arms hugging them tightly giving each of them a kiss. "I missed you two! And look at how much you've grown!" And it was true, they were still nowhere near as big as Scootaloo but they were both easily an inch or two taller... Longer? Whatever...

"We missed you too!" They echoed snuggling against me.

"Look! Look uncle!" Prism opened his mouth wide, it looked like one of his baby teeth was loose and he wiggled it too and fro with his tongue obviously proud of himself.

Not to be outdone Shimmer tugged on my arm. "We got measured yesterday an... An I'm..." Her face screwed up in an adorable look of concentration. "One eight of an inch taller then Prism!" She grinned sticking her tongue out at him.

I laughed at her cuteness not to mention Prism's disgruntled look, I gave him a comforting squeeze. "Don't you worry you'll grow soon enough. You'll both grow and grow and it won't matter at all you'll see."

"But right now I'm taller!" Shimmer giggled as Prism wiggled his tooth at her.

I laughed some more as I carried them over to Twilights parents, Mrs. Sparkle gave me a hug and I shook Mr. sparkles hoof as well as I could with two squirmy brother / sister competitive foals in my arms.

"Good to see you both, but what are you doing here?"

Mrs. Sparkle smiled nodding towards the foals and a glance behind her at a small mountain of bags. "Taking them to their new home of course... So far away... I'm going to miss you so much!!!" She burst out in tears grabbing them both and hugging them tight.

Mr. Sparkle shook his head with a bemused grin. "She's been going on like this since we heard... It was a shock to be sure but I think once we see this 'Crystal Empire'... Well if our son and daughter in law are going to be running things, it’s going to be amazing."

Mrs. Sparkle let the twins down wiping her eyes as they ran around our legs chasing each other poignantly reminding me of the portrait with Luna, Celestia and their parents.

"We caught the early train in Canterlot to get here to meet you and it won't be until this evening until their ready to head back out again. We hoped to spend some time with you and Twilight... Where is she?" Her mother asked.

"Not to worry, she stayed behind to help Cadence and Armor you'll be able to spend plenty of time with her when you get there. I had my duties here I needed to return to not to mention the parents of one of our friends has been looking after Scootaloo. Anyhow! Let’s not just stand here... Let’s go home."

We walked through town to the library greeting ponies on the way, Prism and Shimmer galloped ahead excited to see new ponies and things. They had been here before of course but they had been younger then. I was still amazed at how quickly they had progressed; they weren't even half a year old talking and running around without a problem. I watched them with a smile hoping they wouldn't grow up too fast or be too grown up to play with their new cousin when he or she was born...

We arrived at the library and I let everyone in, it was a little messy we had left in a hurry and it looked like Scootaloo had been back at least once to get a few things. Mr. and Mrs. Sparkle were unfazed though, they'd had the twins for awhile now and I imagine a clean house seemed like a distant memory.

I made some tea and snacks throwing away some perishables that looked like they were too far gone and we sat and played with the twins while I told them of what had happened in the Crystal Empire. I was extremely light on the details of course, if Cadence, Armor or Twilight wanted to tell them more... Well that was up to them to decide.

It was almost time for school to be let out and I excused myself letting them know I'd be back soon. I got to the school just as they were letting out and concealed myself behind a tree hoping to surprise her. Fillies and colts of all ages streamed out heading in every direction, finally three familiar little fillies left but didn't come my way but instead headed towards Sweet Apple Acres! I should have guessed after a long school day they would go to their clubhouse to relax and goof off.

I quickly followed them still trying to be inconspicuous until we were away out of town; I stepped out onto the path about twenty feet behind them and called out.

"Excuse me young fillies, I'm looking for my daughter... A young Pegasus named Scootaloo; I've really missed her..."

The three of them stopped in their tracks, Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle looked back excitedly then to Scootaloo who still hadn't turned...

Maybe she was mad at us for leaving her for so long with no warning...? Maybe... I took a step towards them planning to go to her and comfort her, explain... When suddenly she spun around taking off soaring right at me. I could see some tears in her eyes and I opened my arms and she crashed into me knocking me off my feet hugging me tight.

"Oh Angel... I've missed you so much." I whispered soothing back her wild mane and kissing her forehead.

"I was so worried! What happened?!" She sobbed. "I thought you left me..." She whispered making me squeeze her all the tighter.

"We'll never leave you. Never. It was an emergency and things just moved so fast... We still should have written you, everyday! I'm so sorry."

She sniffed and looked up at me letting me wipe her tears away and kiss her soft nose. "I love you Scootaloo never doubt it, Twilight loves you, and we’ll be with you as long as you need us..." Your whole life... I thought to myself.

"I... I really missed you Dad." Her sweet smile made my heart burst and I hugged her tight again kissing her repeatedly.

"Ahh! Ok, ok! I love you too! Lemmi go!" She blushed embarrassed as Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom walked up.

"Awww...!" They cooed as Scootaloo squirmed away, I smiled at them and gave each of them a hug as well.

"Great to see you both girls." They both giggled hugging me back a moment before we parted. "So were you headed to the clubhouse?"

"We were but not now! I wanna go home and sleep in my own bed! Oh! No offence Sweetie Belle but your bed is too soft! And I want to see Mom!"

"Sorry Angel... Mom's still away for awhile, but not for too much longer."

"Wait! Is mah sister back?!"

"She sure is Apple Bloom, probably waiting to see you right now..."

"Ah gotta go girls! See ya tomorrow...!" She called out as she galloped off.

"Is Rarity home too?!" Sweetie Belle squeaked excitedly.

"Sorry Sweetie... She's helping Twilight and Cadence for awhile yet..." She looked so crestfallen I couldn't help but hug her again. "Tell you what. Why don't you come over for supper, a small repayment for your family opening your home for Scootaloo while we were gone? I'll have to come over and thank your parents personally later."

"They didn't mind. It was really fun!"

"Did you have fun Angel?"

"Yeah... It was... Different."

Her tone led me to believe she hadn't enjoyed the experience much but she smiled just the same.

"Lets go home Dad."

I lifted her up onto my shoulders and carried Sweetie Belle in my arms making my way back to town; we stopped briefly in the market to pick up some food for supper getting whatever the girls wanted. Naturally we had to stop by Sugar Cube Corner too... I made sure we got plenty and we made our way back home.

Just short of the front door I stopped. "Okay girls I've got a surprise for you just through that door so close your eyes."

"A surprise?!" They squealed together.

"Ready?"

They both nodded their eyes tightly shut as I opened the door and two little foals leapt out to tackle their cousin and her friend.

"Ahh!" They both cried out in surprise finding two adorable foals on them as I chuckled.

"Scootaloo! Sweetie Belle!" They both giggled happy to see them and to have someone to play with.

"Dinner will be soon but until then you can play and..." I pulled three chocolate chip cookies out of one of the bags breaking one in two for the twins. "These should tide you over until then." I grinned with a wink.

"Thanks Rick!"

"Thanks Dad!"

"Thanks uncle!"

They chomped their cookies down quickly then chased each other around the tree. I watched them for a moment with a smile before finishing lugging the bags inside.

"Sorry for the delay, needed a few things for supper..." I apologised.

"Not a problem... Son." Mr. Sparkle nodded with a grin looking through one of our books.

"The babes were a little rambunctious but Scootaloo and her friend..."

"Sweetie Belle."

"Sweetie Belle... How adorable, they'll take care of that excess energy." Mrs. Sparkle smiled taking some of the bags from me into the kitchen. "Now let’s see what we have here..."

"Oh, you don't have to help really. You've been run off your hooves for..."

She turned and smiled. "Don't be silly dear."

Together we made a delicious dinner with plenty for everyone. I went out to get the kids but they were nowhere to be seen... I could hear giggling around the side of the library though and peeked around corner. Two little foals covered in mud and two little fillies also mud splattered trying desperately to use the garden hose to clean up but every time one of they got a bit clean Prism or Shimmer would jump in one of the puddles they were making soaking and getting them muddy again...

"Shimmer! Prism! Stop it! Sweetie Belle stop laughing and help me! Uggh!"

Sweetie Belle was trying to help but kept bursting into fits of giggles.

I grinned to myself and rounded the corner trying to put on a stern face. "Scootaloo Sparkle!"

She and Sweetie Belle jumped while Prism and Shimmer rushed forward for hugs. I quickly scooped them up telekinetically keeping them out of reach but floating them around upside down making them squeal in delight.

"Dad! I'm sorry..."

"It's not our fault Rick really...!"

I managed to stay firm a few seconds longer but their cute looks of panic and stammered excuses were too much. A smile broke out and I ruffled their somewhat dirty manes. "Looks like its bath time before dinner." I laughed leaning down to kiss Scootaloo on her nose, (one of the only parts of her not mud splattered.)

She breathed a sigh of relief giving me a dirty look. "That’s mean Dad! You scared me... Whoa!"

I laughed again levitating them both up and bringing them inside to keep the muddy hoof prints to a minimum. All four of them didn't even equal the same weight as a full grown pony but maintaining four levitations was still quite tricky for me thankfully we weren't going far.

"Oh ho! Looks like you had a bit of an adventure did you?" Mr. Sparkle laughed.

"Oh my! I'll turn the burners down Rick; you get those little hooligans clean would you?"

"Thanks." I floated the four of them into the bathroom placing them all in the tub turning on the water and pouring in some of Twi's favourite bubble bath.

"Bubbles!" Shimmer squealed splashing excitedly starting a general melee where everyone was splashing everyone! There was no way I could control them (or stay dry myself) so if you can't beat em, join em!

After five or so minutes of splashing, bubble blowing and general craziness they'd all calmed down a bit. I got Shimmer all cleaned up first catching the few places that the splash war hadn't cleaned then pulled her out drying her off with a big fluffy towel. Her mane and tail were sticking up in every direction so I grabbed Twi's brush and sat her in my lap gently brushing her mane and tail.

"There you go Shimmer, no tangles. Your mane is getting long!"

She giggled enjoying the attention as Prism tried to climb out of the slippery tub to hone in on the action splashing a bit more.

"Just a second Prism." I admonished gently as I finished up. "There you go Shimmer, so pretty. Go see Grandma and Grandpa ok?"

"Kay! Thank you uncle!" I gave her a kiss and opened the door for her and she galloped off as I lifted Prism out quickly wrapping him in a towel as he tried to get away, I dried him quickly.

"There you go Prism, do you want me too...?" My offer to brush his mane and tail lost as he galloped off after his sister.

I laughed lightly and lifted Sweetie Belle out of the tub though she probably could have gotten out herself, she let me dry her off and her mane and tail poofed right back up but in the wrong way.

"Could you...?" She smiled shyly blushing slightly.

"Of course Sweetie." I brushed her mane and tail carefully currying out the tangles while Scootaloo watched clearly jealous.

"Thank you Rick!" She squeaked giving me a hug and standing in the doorway.

"Your turn Angel..."

She sat in the nearly empty tub with a grumpy look on her face her forehooves crossed, it was so adorable I couldn't help but scoop her up hugging her tight getting myself more soaked in the process but I didn't care. I ticked her slightly as I dried her off and try as she might she couldn't help letting a few giggles out finally giving up smiling happily while I brushed her short mane and tail.

"Thank you Dad!"

"Ok girls would you go and help Mrs. Sparkle set the table?"

"Ok!" Sweetie Belle had waited for her so they took off together.

I closed the door and took a deep breath looking around at the huge mess not to mention my own soaked and bedraggled condition. With a mental reminder to clean this all up later I peeled off my wet clothes and dried myself off, fortunately Twilight and I kept robes here and mine was only a little damp. Exiting I found the twins sitting with their Grandpas looking through a book while Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle helped set the food on the table.

"Suppers ready Rick."

"Be right there." I went up to our room and got changed only stopping for a moment to look at our empty bed with a momentary pang.

Then we had a wonderful dinner and dessert chatting and enjoying the twins as well as Scootaloo and Sweetie Belles cute antics. We cleaned up quickly and had to hustle back to the train station to catch the last train. The twins were already looking sleepy, Shimmer nestled in my arms and Prism sat on his Grandfathers back.

We got their multitude of bags stored and said our goodbyes. I had written a quick letter to Twi and passed it over to Mrs. Sparkle.

"I'll make sure she gets it."

"Me... Too..." Shimmer yawned.

I gave her a big hug and kiss. "I'll miss you, love you." Then I gently placed her on her Grandmothers back.

"Will you come visit me sometime?" She asked looking up at me with her big amber colored eyes.

"You know I will all three of us." I promised. I scooped up Prism giving him a big hug and kiss as well. "You be good tiger." I grinned.

Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle said goodbye as well Scootaloo getting a big hug and kiss from her Grandmother and Grandfather before the conductor hurried them onto the train.

We watched as the train steamed off as I thought to myself. It's going to be a whole new world for you two. I hope it holds nothing but good things...

"Alright you two, we better get Sweetie Belle home."

"Ok!" They echoed.

We made our way through town to Sweetie Belle parents home, it was a nice cool evening and a breeze sped us on our way from behind. Sweetie Belle and Rarity’s parents were both very friendly boisterous ponies. I honestly had no idea how Rarity turned out how she did... Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle rushed off to her room to gather her things while I talked to Magnum and Pearl.

"I really can't thank you enough for taking care of Scootaloo while we were away and under such sudden circumstances... Can I give you something to pay for...?"

Magnum put up his forehoof cutting me off. "Don't be silly Rick. We're friends and neighbours; we do things for one another right?"

"And Scootaloo was such a joy to have here, she and Sweetie Belle had so much fun!" Pearl continued as the two of them came down from Sweetie Belles room.

"Well thank you again, if Twi or I can do anything for you don't hesitate to ask."

"Will do. Have a great night!" I shook Magnums hoof then the three of them waved goodbye to us as we walked off.

"So how did you like staying with them Angel?"

"It was weird... Not bad, but weird. They do things differently, make different meals... Talk, talk, talk, talk...! I know why Sweetie Belle is so talkative now." She giggled.

I laughed and scooped her up tossing her saddlebags over my shoulder. "I'm glad you managed ok."

"Hanging out with Sweetie Belle was a lot of fun! Kind of like what having a sister might be like!"

"Heh, well you'll have your own brother or sister before too long."

"I know... Achooo!"

"Ooh, bless you."

"Thanks..."

She was almost asleep in my arms as we got home; I carried her to her room and gently tucked her in soothing back her mane and kissing her forehead.

"Glad your home Dad..." She whispered.

"Me too Angel, sleep tight."

"Mmm..." She grunted already drifting off happy and comfortable in her own bed.

I closed her door gently putting her saddle bags off to the side they could wait until tomorrow. Then I got busy cleaning up the last bit of mess I needed to the greatest of which was naturally the bathroom. It was nearly midnight when I finished and I was dead tired but I wasn't sure I would be able to sleep...

I got undressed and looked down at the big empty bed, I slid in with a sigh Twi's scent was all over the sheets, the pillows and in my head. I lay back staring at the ceiling mentally sending my love to her before I closed my eyes and tried to sleep...

I awoke with a jerk certain it had been only minutes but when I looked over at the clock it was nearly eight thirty. I guess I had been really tired... Eight thirty!? Scootaloo! School! I rolled out of bed quickly throwing on a robe rushing down to the kitchen to get a lunch ready for her calling out.

"Angel! Time to get up! School!"

Admittedly she wasn't a morning filly, always grumpy at least until after we got breakfast into her and she got going. I quickly made a sandwich and tossed some fruit and a juice box into a lunch box along with one of the remaining cookies, a big one. She still hadn’t shown her muzzle yet.

"Angel!" Sigh, I was going to have to go get her. I went up and rapped gently on her door. "Angel..." I cracked it open and sighed again at the lump in her bed under the covers. I snuck up pulling them down slowly only to stop suddenly, she was usually ready for that tactic and fought back... I looked a little closer and her fur was matted and wet with sweat and she was warm, even hot to the touch but she was still shivering slightly.

She coughed and opened her eyes a bit red rimmed. "Daddy... I don't feel good..."

Now I knew she was sick she rarely called me Daddy and putting my hand on her forehead she was burning up. Now I was no stranger to a Scootaloo 'sick' day, it was tough to play sick when your Dad and Mom could cast a spell to see if you were really sick (though sometimes I did let her get away with it if it was just the two of us...)

"Yup you’re definitely sick baby. But that’s ok Daddy will fix it."

I gathered my healing powers putting my hands gently on her and... Nothing. Confused I tried again, and again. Different ways and different spells. My magic was working but... Despite all I had learned, the diseases I had conquered, all the magic I had at my command...!

I couldn't cure the common cold...

She coughed again looking up at me with hopeful eyes.

"I'm sorry baby, I guess I can't just snap my fingers and fix it. But I can still take care of you." I gathered her up gently and carried her to the bathroom running a nice hot bath. "Too hot?" I asked letting her dip her hoof in.

She shook her head coughing again as I lowered her in soaking a facecloth to wash her carefully adding more hot water on occasion to keep it nice and steamy for her throat. I cleaned her up then her wings slowly and thoroughly having checked up on Pegasus preening a long time ago when we first adopted her. She relaxed leaning over the rim of the tub while I worked giggling occasionally when I cleaned a sensitive part of her wings.

Finished I lifted her out wrapping her in a big towel keeping her warm while I dried her off. I left her wrapped up a moment while I checked to see if we had any medicine. But nothing... Pony medicine didn't rely heavily on drugs which wasn't a bad thing. Mostly used to control vomiting or the 'trots'... Ponies were pretty resilient and overcame most but the very virulent diseases...

I kept her wrapped up carrying her to the kitchen. "Are you hungry?'

"Little..." She croaked.

"What do you want?"

"Doast and eggs?" Her nose was a little stuffed clearly.

"We don't have any eggs baby..."

"Oh..."

"But I'll go get some."

"Dank you daddy..."

I bundled her up on the couch with some juice with a straw. "I'll be right back." I rubbed her back kissing her forehead.

"Kay..."

I quickly got dressed then rushed off almost making it to the market when I remembered, school! I quickly detoured over to the schoolhouse letting Cheerilee know Scootaloo wouldn't be making it today. Then I jogged as fast as I could to the market bought some eggs and ran home, I was breathing heavily when I finally got there. Scootaloo was still curled up on the couch napping her juice half empty as least. I let her sleep while I made breakfast, the smell must have roused her as before too long I heard her little hooves and her dragging blanket as she emitted little coughs.

"Feeling any better baby?"

She shook her head climbing slowly up into a chair wrapping herself back up as I served up her breakfast just the way she liked it. Sunny side up firm and a little crispy on the outside edges but still soft enough in the middle to dip her toast. I fetched her juice topping it off and sat down with my own breakfast beside her, she was having a little trouble eating so I cut her egg up for her feeding her like she was a little foal.

I know she was sick and I felt bad I couldn't do too much about it but... I enjoyed taking care of her; she was a tough independent little filly when she first came into our lives, not a lot of chances for daddy / daughter bonding. We had a few to be sure but she never really needed me to take care of her like this, I guess it was a little like practice for our new foal...

"I'm full..." She had only eaten about half her egg and a piece of toast but she had drunk all her juice and that was good.

"Want to rest some more baby?"

She nodded sleepily and I picked her up carrying her back to the couch as I did I noticed she still shivered slightly.

"Still cold?"

"Lil..."

I got another blanket and started a small fire; I lay behind her on the couch holding her tight until she fell asleep. I reluctantly pulled myself away with the knowledge that I needed to check the border and the Ward stones. "Be right back baby..." I whispered giving her a kiss.

I headed straight out avoiding conversation just a simple hello and goodbye to any pony I met. Things seemed thankfully calm, plenty of activity between the forest and the fields outside of town but all of it small animal. The stones were at about half charge but I always tried to make sure they were working at peak efficiency. Still it took me well over an hour to find and charge them all then exhausted I hurried back home.

Right where I left her, I laid back down behind her being careful not to disturb her. I sighed relaxing back, just closing my eyes for a minute... Just a...

I awoke feeling something moving against me draping something over me before snuggling down against me. I smiled to myself opening my eyes to see the sun just beginning to dip towards the horizon and part of Scootaloo’s blanket draped over me and her.

"Are you sick too daddy?" She whispered looking up at me.

"Just a little tired baby, and even if I was I would still take care of you."

"Dank you..."

We laid there together awhile, I rubbed her back gently as she dozed and I pondered just how much I could love this little tomfilly. The fire burned out as the sun set. I gently picked her up waking her.

"How about a little supper? Something simple... How about peanut butter and jelly?"

She smiled knowing that I knew that was one of her favourites and very unsuitable for dinner. "Yes please."

I got her seated with some more juice while I quickly whipped us both up a sandwich. Again she didn't have much of an appetite but drank plenty which was important. I carried her over to the bathroom before bed, letting her do her business in private before tucking her in.

"Do you dhink I can go to school domorrow?" She asked her voice still scratchy.

I felt her forehead and looked at her closely. "Well... How do you feel? Any better?"

"A bit..."

I knew that was a little fib. "We’ll see in the morning baby. Lots of rest is what you need."

"Kay... Daddy... Will you sing to me? My Mom used to..."

I gave her a squeeze. "I'm not a very good singer baby... But I'll try." I thought for a few minutes then something came to mind...

Soft kitty, warm kitty...

Little ball of fur...

Happy kitty, sleepy kitty...

Purr, purr, purr...

"What was dat?"

"Just something from an old show I used to watch back on Earth, they would sing it if someone was sick or feeling bad..."

"But I'm not a kitty; it should be about me..." She grumped.

"Ok baby, how about..."

Soft filly, warm filly...

Little ball of fur... ("And feathers...") She whispered.

I chuckled with a smile and clearing my throat began again.

Soft filly, warm filly...

Little ball of fur, and feathers...

Happy filly, sleepy filly...

Neigh, neigh, neigh...

She smiled happily her eyes getting heavy as she yawned. "Dank you daddy... Love you."

"And I love you." I kissed her forehead softly as she fell asleep.

I watched her from the doorway for a moment half hoping she would be better tomorrow but still selfishly hoping to spend more time babying her... I left her door open so I could hear her if she needed me in the night and cleaned up after our breakfast and supper. I was tired myself despite the nap I had taken earlier, I dragged myself up to bed suddenly surprised and excited to find a scroll lying there. I got undressed and laid down to read it...

My love

I miss you so deeply I can barely stand it. I miss you, I miss Scootaloo and I miss home.

Things are going well here and thankfully there’s so much to do I collapse into bed every

night exhausted. I hope you and Scootaloo are well, there’s still so much to do, to accomplish

here... I will write you again when I can find the time. I miss you! I love you,

I love you both so much!

My eternal love

Twilight

I lay back with a sigh slipping off to sleep. I love you too Twi... Do what you have to; we'll be here when you get back.

I woke up a few minutes before the alarm went off as I usually did. Seven am, I got up feeling quite well rested throwing on a robe I went downstairs to check on my little Angel.

She was still asleep and I was careful not to wake her as I looked her over. She seemed maybe a little better, still with a small fever and sweating but no shivers thankfully. I let her sleep going to make a small breakfast for us both.

About ten minutes later she came in slowly and sleepily sniffing with a few small coughs.

"Morning baby, how do you feel?"

"Still sick..."

I moved over kneeling down to hug her and feel her brow again. "Mmm, little better. Another day, maybe two..."

"Awww...'

"I thought you didn't like school that much?"

"Well... It's ok... I like to see my friends..."

I chuckled scooping her up putting her at the table for breakfast. "Don't you worry, they won't forget you after a few days baby, no matter how hard they try..." I teased.

"Daddy...!"

We both ate her appetite a little better too an encouraging sign then I gave her another cozy bath to wash off the nights sweat. I bundled her up and we cuddled on the couch while I told her about the Crystal Empire and what happened there. Her I told a bit more still playing down just how dangerous it was but not skipping any of the action which she so loved.

When I finished telling the story she was looking up at me starry eyed. "So you and Mom saved an entire Empire?!"

"Well, we helped. Let’s just say that."

"But those ponies you saved in the dungeon!"

"I guess, but I hope the guards would have remembered them and let them out when they came to their senses."

"Nu uh! You’re a hero, Mom doo!"

"I'm more then happy just too just be your hero baby..."

"You are daddy..." I hugged her tightly, suddenly remembering I went and retrieved Twilights letter and we read it together.

"I hope she comes home soon..."

"Me too Angel, me too..."

We cuddled together a bit longer before a tapping at the door roused me. Opening it I found Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom as well as Silver Spoon and Diamond Tiara.

"Girls! Good to see you all, just a sec..."

I went over and picked up Scootaloo making sure she was still bundled up comfortably, I knew it might embarrass her a bit but I did want her to get better.

"Hi guys..." She croaked out.

"Are you ok?" Sweetie Belle asked looking concerned.

"She'll be fine, just a cold and cough. A little more rest and she'll be flying circles around you all again." I chuckled.

"Dad's daking good care of me." She explained snuggling against me making me smile.

In the girls faces I could see a mixture of emotions, Sweetie Belle was 'Awwwing' I was sure her Dad was just as big a pushover as I was, for her and likely her sister before her. Apple Bloom too had that 'Awww' look but tinged with a bit of longing, she hadn't even really known her father... Silver Spoon and Diamond Tiara both looked green with envy and longing. I knew Tiaras parents gave her wherever she wanted most of the time, likely Silver Spoons parents were the same. But they were busy too and couldn't spend the time with them as I'm sure they would like to...

I made a mental note this summer take all four of them and Scootaloo out camping somewhere, just me and them.

"We brought you some homework! And a card!" Sweetie Belle squeaked as they all held up a big hoofmade card together. 'Get Well Soon!' It looked like it had been signed by everyone in her class as well as Cheerilee.

"Thanks..."

I levitated the card and homework away from them with a smile. "Thank you girls, that was very nice of you all. But Scootaloo needs her rest and I wouldn't want any of you to get sick either..."

"Ok... Bye Scootaloo! Get better!" They all called out as they left Scootaloo waved back weakly before we went back inside and sat back down.

"That was nice of them right baby?"

"Yeah..." We looked over the card; each of her classmates had written something nice as well as signing it. 'Get well', 'We miss you', 'Come back soon'. I thought maybe my little Angel didn't know just how popular she was.

"Do you dhink I'll be able do go back domrrow?"

"Well... You are getting better..."

"Pleease..."

"We'll see baby, I don't want you to make anyone else sick. Or get more sick yourself, ok?"

"Kay..."

"That’s my filly..."

We spent the rest of day together looking over her homework and napping, as I was making supper I noticed her shaking her head her ears going up and down.

"What’s wrong baby?"

"My ears hurt..."

I had a look but couldn't see anything wrong, an earache... A nasty cold symptom, a hot water bottle would help... But we didn't have one, and it was too late to go out to get one... I'd think of something.

We had supper and got ready for bed.

"Dhey hurt daddy..."

"I know baby, let me see if I can help." I got into her little bed with her holding her close to keep her warm and creating the smallest amount of heat I could in the palm of my hand carefully blowing it over her ears to help them feel better. It seemed to work after a few minutes she relaxed starting to yawn and drift off.

"Will you stay with me?" She whispered half asleep.

"All night baby..."

"Love you daddy..." She whispered falling asleep.

"Love you baby..." I kept up the warming until I felt myself drifting off then pulled her close to keep her warm as we both slept...

"Dad... Dad... Dad!"

"Wha...? Where?!" I woke up to an instant little filly nudging me still cuddled up close. "What’s wrong? Are you ok baby?"

"I'm not a little foal Dad."

Uh oh. I looked her over and she seemed fine, no fever, no sweats even her throat and nose seemed clear. "Your feeling better then are you ba... Angel?"

She smiled kissing me on the cheek nuzzling close. "I do... Thank you daddy." She whispered.

I kissed her brow my heart aching. "Well I guess you better get ready for school then! Its only Thursday!"

"Really?! Okay!"

She raced off leaving me to pull myself up from my cramped position in her bed, I stretched cracking my back.

"Comeon Dad! Breakfast! It’s almost eight!"

I grinned going out to fill up my hungry little filly helping her finish off her homework and get ready for school seeing her off at the door.

"Have a great day Angel."

She smiled stretching her wings flying a few experimental loops before coming back to me for a hug. "I will... Love you Dad." She took off before I could reply soaring swiftly towards Sweetie Belles home.

"Love you too baby..."

I went back inside starting to get everything cleaned up I'd ignored for the past two days. I was glad she was better and at the very least it had kept me from thinking about Twi too much... Strange... All the time I had been here I couldn't recall a time when either Twilight or I had been sick... Maybe there was yet another benefit of our link, an immunity to disease... That could be very useful, immune to disease... Yeah I could get used to that.

"Achoo!"

Crap...

Author's Notes:

Hello again, here we have a prime example of me not knowing what a 'short' chapter is... lol Oh well. I did enjoy writing this one maybe a little too much, every time I wrote her calling me daddy, choked me up a little... I swear I used to be tough! I'm a pretty big guy I look all rough. I used to wear a leather jacket! Seriously... Sigh, these ponies have turned me into a big mushball... And I don't mind at all.

Anyhow, I hope you enjoy this slice of fluff. Oh! I guess some of you might want to know what I wrote to Twilight? Well I guess I can share that... lol

My love

I miss you so much Twi. The others kept me distracted on the train ride but at night... All I can do is miss you. Scootaloo will keep me busy I'm sure maybe I'll finally get around to making that new book shelf you wanted... I love you. Please come home soon.
For you...

You live as long as I do.

And I live as long as you.

And for that time and forevermore.

I will always love you.

Love always

Rick

Mushy!

Chapter 4 (The farmer, the butterfly and the rainbow)

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Being sick sucks! At least I knew how to make myself feel better, admittedly I too was a bit of a baby while I was sick. Scootaloo helped out all she could making her own lunches and even getting herself up on time in the morning! I tried not to let her do too much though I didn't want her to get sick again... But still every morning when I woke up I found a soft little filly snuggled against me keeping me warm...

A couple of days and I was feeling right again and just in time as spring was in full swing. I still missed Twi desperately even more so when I was sick, but just as well she wasn't here I wouldn't want to spread my sickness to her too. She had sent another letter while I was laid up detailing what she was helping with and the changes Cadence and Armor were making in the Empire...

First and foremost the opening of trade with Equestria and her (now theirs as well) allies. Made good sense as they had plenty to offer with their protection and year round growing season they could definitely afford to sell some of their stores to those in need. Not to mention their crafters, superior crystal and gem workers and I was sure plenty of other things too.

Secondary was opening the borders to any pony, griffin, bovine... Anyone! Who wished to immigrate into the Empire looking for a new start and also those who simply wished to see the wonder and amazement of it, tourism could be a big thing for sure! Granted of course they had to make it through the shield and anyone who wished to live there had to have some sort of skill, talent or wares to contribute or be willing to learn. Also any crystal pony who wished to travel, set up business elsewhere or just to go out and meet new cultures, ponies... Whatever. But with one condition, once every year they had to return to take part in the crystal faire to renew the spirit of love and harmony protecting the Empire.

Many other small changes as well, a council or advisors chosen not for their sycophantic pandering but from all walks of the Empire from the aristocracy all the way down to humble shopkeepers and farmers a very good idea I thought. They would help Cadence and Armor keep abreast of everything they would need to know all throughout the Empire.

Scootaloo read along for awhile but the intricacies soon lost her attention, I wished I could send her something back but I hadn't learned that spell yet and it likely took more skill then I currently possessed...

Early the next morning over breakfast we got a pleasant surprise though. A scroll dropped right in the middle of the table between us, it was short letter.

My loves

I'm on the train! I'm on the train! I'm on the train! Love you! Soon! Love you! Soon! Love you! Soon!

Love

Twilight

P.S. I'm so happy to be coming home!

As we read both our faces lit up in excitement.

"Let’s go Dad!"

I scooped her up as she made a dash for the door hugging her tight. "Sorry Angel it’s a three day train ride, one you will be taking with us one of these days..."

"Really?!"

"You know it."

We still had plenty to do while we waited; cleaning up the library for one thing though it wasn't too bad. I also hadn't gone to see Applejack, Fluttershy or seen Dash so I had to remedy that not to mention letting them know Twilight and I assumed Pinkie and Rarity would be back soon.

Saturday, Sunday and Monday. Three Days. Three long days... Saturday Scootaloo and I headed into town stopping by to pick up Sweetie Belle on our way out to Sweet Apple Acres. As we walked up we found Applejack, Big Mac, Inkie and Apple Bloom getting ready for another busy day on the farm.

"Well howdy Rick, Scootaloo an Sweetie Belle! Nice to see ya'll."

"Thought we might take you up on that offer to help out."

"Sounds fine ta me. Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle why don't you two help out Apple Bloom with her chores an then clean up the barn like ya been promising fer a week?" She added with a grin and a wink.

"Ok!" They echoed not caring what they were doing as long as they were doing it together they raced off excitedly.

"Mac an Inkie know what their doin..."

"Eeyup..." Inkie waved as the two of them walked off occasionally leaning against one another making me smile but with a bit of longing of my own.

"All them years on that rock farm sure seemed ta toughen her up; she's a heck of a worker. An truly I've never seen Mac happier, although they do tend ta distract one another on occasion... I've come around some bushes or a tree on occasion an... Well, seen some things I really wish I hadn’t." She laughed. "But ah'm happy for them, my brothers been alone fer far too long it’s good ta see em with someone who can bring him out of his shell..."

"And what about you?"

If she was surprised by me asking she didn't show it. "Most days sugar ah work myself so hard there’s no time ta think about it, other days... The slow ones, well ah'm grateful Apple Bloom and my friends keep me preoccupied ya know? But seein mah brother an Inkie, you an Twilight even Fluttershy an Trixie... It's hard some days; don't meet many stallions out here on the farm. A few in town but their just customers or just a simple how'd ya do..." She sighed longingly. "Someday... Anyhow! Enougha them depressin thoughts. Long time till harvest yet but we still need ta take care of the trees an make sure the new ones we've planted grow big an strong. I'm gonna check on the north field but over yonder Granny's tendin to some of the new trees, maybe you could go give'r a hoof... Ah, hand?"

I smiled and gave her a quick hug. "No problem Applejack."

I walked over to the small half acre or so where new saplings were growing, they all looked healthy but I really had no idea or experience with plants. I found Granny Smith sitting in the middle of the grove to be, at first I thought she had fallen asleep but as I quietly approached she popped open an eye looking me up and down.

"Well I'll be they were right. Wouldn't expect em to be able to give such a good description... Applejack an Mac sent ya to keep an eye on me eh?"

"What? No, no just to give you a hand... Hoof... To help you."

"Same thing youngling..." She sighed stretching out a few kinks in her neck. "Comon an park er here." I sat down across from her wondering just what she was up to here. "Ah'm old Rick, ah know that’s no secret but I'm beginning ta feel it. I've seen a lot of ponies come an go, some close to me and many others I barely knew... Every one of em I felt pass though... Some more then others. We pony folk... Well Earth ponies are most connected to the land, fer most it’s just an extension of our endurance an strength but rarely we have a deeper connection..."

"Magic?" I asked now very curious.

She laughed and closed her eyes settling down again. "Magic is a funny thing sonny, I've seen what most unicorns’ kin do an the way the Pegasus fly and mould the weather... Yer wife Twilights on another level from that an the Princesses another yet. But we're all connected... You, me, the sky, the ground an the water... Close yer eyes, breath deep an let it flow through ya... Open yerself to it."

I was a bit sceptical but if what I had been told was true Granny Smith was over a hundred and fifty years old and I had no doubt she knew and had experienced a lot in her lifetime. I did as she asked breathing deeply trying to... Something? I could feel a breeze blowing through the trees, the occasional chirp of a cricket and her breathing calm and steady. I wasn't used to this, whatever this was... My experience with magic was quite different, I couldn't feel anything... Wait... Something, maybe... At the back of my mind as I relaxed, almost felt like something touching the back of my head... That broke my concentration as I reached back to swat whatever annoying insect was on me but there was nothing there...

Granny chuckled smiling with her eyes still closed. "Not easy is it? But I kin feel somethin in you... Some magic of yer own mayhap an something else... Some sorta deeper connection... Well, that’s no nevermind. Try again now."

"I really don't know..."

"Y’all are supposed ta be helpin me ain’t cha?"

"Yes but..."

"No butts about it now concentrate."

"I smiled to myself closing my eyes again, that Granny was a firecracker to be sure. Alright then... Anything is possible, my very presence here proved that. Deep breaths empty my mind and let...

A ladybug caught my attention; just sitting on a branch I could see every part, every facet of it... Its shell, antenna... But my eyes were still closed I was sure of it! As I grew more accepting suddenly I could feel more and more! Bugs, birds, small animals! It was too much, overwhelming me bombarding my every sense, too much to see, hear, and smell even touch... My mind couldn't handle it...

"That’s enough of that youngin." Her voice pulled me back somehow piercing everything that was in my mind keeping me from becoming engrossed, lost in every detail... "Ya got some promise I'll give ya that. But not much control, yer too eager. Like any kinda magic, heck like anything in life ya need to have some control. But I recon you knew that right?"

I nodded my head still a bit fuzzy but recovering boggled by this new... Well new to me kind of magic and with my even greater respect for Granny Smith. "Better? A'right then ready to give'r another try?"

"Y... Yes..."

"Good, good. Now jes start small this time. Try a sapling they tend to be pretty laid back..." She chuckled.

I was both eager and wary to try again so I opened my consciousness very slowly, cautiously trying to block everything else out but one of the saplings. As I concentrated I found my training for 'normal' magic definitely helped, the need for control was ever-present. Magical energies of any stripe were apparently similar in that respect and that danger so I took my time.

"Ya concentratin on the sapling?"

"Yes..."

"A'right then, expand yer senses out a bit... Slowly! Stick to the trees, you kin feel their life, their thoughts... Well as close to thinkin as most trees do... Live, grow, eat, reproduce... These are the things they feel... They know."

"All right..."

I tried to reach out, to connect on some level with the sapling... Suddenly almost like there had always been a connection I felt it. It's 'mind' was very alien, it's needs, wants and how it went about getting them were complex to my mind yet infinitely simple. My sharp intake of breath likely tipped Granny off I had made contact.

"Interestin ain't it? I been around em, studyin em and their seeds nearly ma whole life it seems... But they don't care about us animal folks really, hardly even notice we're here."

"What about when... You know... The things we do? Harvesting apples? Lumber...?"

"Hmmm... Trees don't give no nevermind about their offspring the moment they grow em, just a means to spread their seeds far an wide... Lil like this one stallion I knew when I was young... Ah... Never mind about that. The second though... A good question, ah was curious about that in ma youth, ah connected myself to an old oak who was due ta be harvested fer lumber... You have no idea of the age... The memory... Only the Princess's could understand... Ah'd gotten a bit lost in em when the first axe struck! Ah thought there would be pain! Panic, anger even but... No. It was aware ah'm sure still ta this day but... Simply a feeling of peace, it'd spread its legacy far an wide, lived fer hundreds an hundreds of years... Brought down by us ponies... Us insignificant... Made me so mad! It was my paw an brothers bringin it down with help from the neighbours, I tried to get them to stop! To understand, but it was too late... I cried all the way home, ma daddy didn't understand I'd seen trees felled before what made this one so different and I couldn't explain it to em... Later that evenin my momma came ta talk to me, she understood better. She had a touch of magic herself, not strong but she knew the feeling of the wild an even though she hadn't felt what I had she knew what to say... 'Baby girl I know the trees passing made you sad but he wasn't. He'd lived his life like nature intended him to, no regrets and no fear. And now he's helping us make a new barn, helping our family to grow and in return we'll plant more of his friends and help them grow. He's returned to the earth and we all will someday but don't be sad or angry it's just... Life.'"

She took a deep breath I could almost hear the smile on her face. "Ah never forgot that an I hope I never do, even when time took my ma and pa, my brothers an sisters even ma own daughter... Ah hope it’s all connected Rick, that’s what I'm gonna believe an maybe someday I'll see em all again... Applejack an Big Mac, the best kids a Granny could hope to raise but not a stick of magic between em. It flows through em strong but they can't touch it, Apple Bloom, well she’s got some talent. Ah think she might be able ta understand someday... Fer now I've just been teachin her minor stuff. Zap apple jammin an such, I dunno if I'll be around ta teach er when she’s grown..."

She paused after that and I had no idea what I could even say to that, but somehow in my mind it all rang true.

"Well, that’s enougha break I recon. You still connected to that saplin?"

My mind had wandered a bit as I listened to Granny but now as I refocused I found my consciousness had crept out to encompass the whole small grove!

"I am..."

"A'right then, we're gonna try to encourage these little beauties to grow a bit. Everyone needs a helpin hoof here an there right? Start slow; share your energy with it, just a tiny bit. Take some back but less'n you gave, slow an steady don't overextend yerself we're just helpin a bit. Yer body'll know when ta stop trust it, ah sure can't give as much as I used ta I'm plum tuckered already..."

I did as she asked spreading out throughout the grove carefully; it would be too easy for my mind to get lost in it all... Give too much, give it all... No different then any other magic, easy to lose control, lose focus... I gave and took slowly at first but more as I grew to accept it, it was an incredible feeling. Connected with so many living things, not anywhere near as deep as my connection with Twi but still different and amazing... Maybe this could be used to heal! To extend the... My train of thought was interrupted suddenly as I got shoved over breaking my concentration and connection with the saplings.

"Slow down there sonny." Granny sat down beside me looking tired.

I tried to get back up but found I couldn't, I felt so very weak I could barely reach up to grasp a saplings trunk to pull myself upright gasping.

"Zzzz..."

Looking over Granny’s head was nodding I just let her rest as I did and I badly needed it. For five minutes or more I just breathed and while I felt weak I didn't feel... Damaged, just drained like after a long day of work or a strenuous workout...

Granny’s head shot back up with a snort. "Wha...?! Oh! Howdy thar youngin... Well look at that..."

I followed her gaze up noticing the saplings, I could swear... No, I knew they were smaller before barely up to my shoulder when I had come in... Seemed like ages ago... I pulled myself up with difficulty finding they now rose at least a foot above my head!

"Guess I still got it." She grinned.

Did she really just forget that whole...? Didn't matter, I shook my head and smiled. "You sure do Granny."

She slowly got up her joints cracking and popping, I gave her a hand though still not completely steady on my own two feet.

"Ahh, thankie. Well its gettin late best be headin back to the house ta get some supper goin, everyone'll be hungry soon enough."

"Can I give you a hand back to the house?"

"Don't you fret, these four hooves have carried me this far an they'll carry me ta then end. Ya kin go gather up the lil smelly belly an her friends though, they were cleanin up the barn."

She creaked off towards the farmhouse while I made my way almost as slowly to the barn when again I had a wait a second moment. How did she know they were in the barn? For that matter how did she even know Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle were here?! I turned to watch her a moment, far more under the surface there then you'd think...

I approached the barn expecting to hear the girls long before I saw them but all was quiet and that was either a good thing or a very bad one... I peeked in to find the most adorable thing I had ever seen, looked like they had been hard at work all day the barn was cleaned up nicely. Poor little sweeties wore themselves out, I was pretty tired myself I'm sure a short rest before supper wouldn't hurt. I settled down with them in the hay trying not to disturb them but maybe subconsciously or maybe they just felt my body heat all three of them moved closer snuggling against me. I lifted Scootaloo carefully onto my chest while Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom cuddled against my sides; I put my arms around them and closed my eyes comfortable and warm.

Ring a Ding! Ring a Ding! "Soups on!"

I opened my eyes hearing Granny call out and feeling three sleeping fillies twitch against me. Scootaloo yawned adorably blinking at me. "Dad?"

"Hey there Angel, you three looked so comfortable I thought I'd join you."

She smiled and nuzzled against me a moment. "Suppertime?"

"Sounds like, we better not keep Granny waiting."

Apple Bloom sat up with a grin. "Better not! Otherwise Big Mac an Applejack'll eat it all!"

Sweetie Belle was still asleep holding my arm tightly. "Go ahead girls we'll be right there." I carefully lifted her up and followed the girls out not wanting to wake her up before she was ready.

She mumbled softly in her sleep. "So comfy..." Nuzzling against me as we approached the house, she yawned looking at me with her big green eyes. "R... Rick!? Hi..." She blushed as I gave her a squeeze and let her down.

"Good nap?"

She nodded. "I... I didn't say anything did I? They told me I talk in my sleep sometimes..."

"Not a thing Sweetie." I grinned. "And you’re up just in time for supper."

"Alright! We worked hard!" She squeaked.

I chuckled as we entered to a beautiful and large meal surprisingly light on apple dishes. I had no idea how Granny had the time to make it all, maybe she stared it all off this morning...? However she managed it was a delicious meal with plenty for everyone, she knew her family and Big Mac and Applejack packed plenty away as did the rest of us. Needless to say Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle and I were much slower on our way back to town to drop Sweetie Belle off and head home ourselves.

I tucked Scootaloo in giving her a kiss. "One day closer Angel. I'm going to help Fluttershy with her animal friends tomorrow, did you want to come or do you 'Crusaders' have plans?"

"Well..."

"I don't mind you spending time with them, you should."

"Thanks Dad, goodnight."

"Sleep tight."

I went up to bed getting undressed and lying down in our bed unfortunately I had to change the sheets a few times from when I was sick and I couldn't really catch her scent at all... I sighed staring up at the ceiling and just like that a small flash above me and a piece of folded parchment fell down to me like she knew I was waiting... Well she did know me pretty well or mayhap the spell was centered on me so it would have found me wherever I was, didn't matter.

If I had thought her last letter was short this one was simplicity itself. 'Soon...' Just that one word slightly damp from the ink I thought at first but that wasn't it, I brought it closer and the scent of her sweet breath and lips was all over it. I kissed it back my heart... And perhaps other parts of me aching for her, I placed it on the pillow beside me and drifted off to sleep...

I awoke the next morning to some little hoof beats below. "I'm going now Dad!"

"Wait... When will you be back?" I managed in my still bleary sleep addled state.

"Supper!" And she was gone.

I lay there a few more minutes looking at Twi's simple letter it still smelled faintly of her. With a groan I got up and had a quick shower and breakfast changing into some plain clothes, if I was going to be helping Fluttershy with her animal friends things could get messy...

About halfway to the cottage I encountered Trixie on her way into town levitating a big bag beside her.

"Hey Trixie, what’s up?"

"Good to see you Rick. They pushed up the date for Sapphires next tour so I've got to get to Hoofington for practice and to see Sapphire and the band." She sighed looking back towards the cottage. "Shy told me she’s fine with it but... Well, I'll make it all up to her when I get back I promise!"

"Why isn't she seeing you to the station?"

"She said she's busy helping her animal friends today but I just think she doesn't want to see me get on that train..."

"I was just going to see if she needed any help today, I'll try my best to keep her company."

"Thanks! I'll see you when I get back!"

I waved as she rushed off towards town then I headed towards Fluttershy’s cottage.

I tapped gently on her door but got no answer, cracking it open I could see her curled up on her couch sobbing quietly Angel and some of her animal friends trying to comfort her.

Definitely had something to do with Trixie, I smiled and shook my head slightly, I of all people couldn't blame her but so was so sensitive... I knelt down beside her clearing my throat while gently rubbing her back.

"Hey Fluttershy." I whispered.

She jumped slightly with a little squeak turning over to look up at me with her green eyes a bit red rimmed. "R... Rick, what are you doing here? I'm fine... Just... Fine..." She burst out in tears and I pulled her into my embrace unable to let her suffer so.

"It's ok Fluttershy... She'll be back before you know it, really. Trust me I know."

Her sobs lessened and she squeezed me back. "I know, thank you. It's just every time she goes or I have to go away from her I worry she won't come back or be there when I come back..."

"She loves you; she'll be back and won't leave..."

"Your right... I feel silly for worrying so much..." She pulled away from me gently smiling. "Did you come to help today?" At my nod her smile intensified. "That’s great! There’s an old friend of yours who really wants to see you!"

"An old friend...?" I pondered that as she led me out her back door practically skipping ahead, regardless of who this 'friend' was it was good to see her happy again.

It was a long walk wherever she was taking me and on the way we chatted but she steadfastly refused to give away any hints other then her sly smile. A few miles from her cottage we came up a small forested area parallel to but far away from the Everfree forest. The trees were spaced widely with a bit of bush and scrub between showing it to be a fairly old growth area. We came to a small clearing and Fluttershy settled down bidding me to do the same still sporting her little smile.

"Fluttershy what is...?"

"Shh... Just wait a moment, please?"

"Ok..."

It was a pleasant afternoon nice and cool in the shade of the trees when I heard a small rustle behind me, before I could turn something struck my back pushing me over.

"What the...?" I rolled over to come face to face to a tiger standing atop me! I instinctively reached for my dagger but I hadn't brought it to Fluttershy’s of course. The tigers head lowered towards me turning to the side and rubbing against my chest and face a low rumble came from it as it settled down on me nuzzling and rubbing against me giving me playful licks with its rough tongue.

"Fluttershy...?" Looking over I could see her happy grin.

"It’s the tiger cub you saved Rick! Remember? He just wanted to show his gratitude, his name is... Well it’s a little hard to put into words... Something like... Chases breezes through the forest on an autumns eve... But you can call him Varippuli, isn't he gorgeous?!"

I remembered of course though I really didn't think I would ever see him again, I gently rubbed the side of his head marvelling at how soft and thick his fur was. "Well hello there Varippuli." I scratched him under the chin and behind the ears things I knew regular cats liked so why not tigers?

Fluttershy moved over by us petting and rubbing his as well with a smile. "I'm glad you came today, for what you said before and so I could bring you to see him. He’s gotten too big to stay much longer with his adoptive Ocelot family and he'll have to go back to the Everfree forest soon... I hope he'll be ok..." She sighed.

I smiled reaching over to rub her neck comfortingly. "As long as he remembers what his mother taught him, his adoptive family and you I think he'll be fine."

"I hope so..."

We stayed there a few hours petting cuddling and playing with Varippuli. As we left I saw a small group of Ocelots emerge from the trees to join him and they all gathered around a basket I hadn't even see Fluttershy bring.

At my questioning look she blushed slightly. "Just some fish, Varippuli grew so quickly they've been having trouble finding enough food for them all so I've been helping where I can..."

"Good for you Fluttershy."

"Well, I can only do what I can right?"

"You bet."

"And thank you for making me feel better today."

"Anytime."

"Do... Do you think Trixie would be happy if I went to visit her...? I mean surprise her on her tour... Maybe I would just be a distraction..."

I stepped closed putting an arm over her giving her a squeeze. "Fluttershy she would be thrilled to see you I have no doubt, she knows how hard it is for you to interact with new ponies sometimes... If you went to see her, overcame your fears even a little bit just for her what would that say eh?"

"I... I guess... Maybe... I'll think about it."

I helped her around the cottage a bit then headed home to get supper ready, I made a bit extra as I had a sneaking suspicion there might be an extra couple of hungry fillies joining us. No sooner then I had set the table the door burst open and Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom trotted in but also Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon!

"I'm hooome! Um... Can my friends come over for dinner?" All five of them smiled up angelically at me.

"Well..." I tried to make it sound like I was thinking it over. "I guess if it’s alright with their parents..."

"Yup! We checked!"

"So you had time to check with all of your parents including going all the way out to Sweet Apple Acres but didn't have the time to let me know we had guests for dinner?" I scolded gently.

"Sorry Dad..."

I laughed resisting the urge to hug her in front of her friends and embarrass her. "Come on in girls and sit down suppers almost ready."

They all got sat down after I got a couple extra seats and place settings. I had thought it would just be Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom who would show up so I wasn't quite prepared but I just took a bit less for myself to make sure they all got full. All five of them were quite ravenous even Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon though they were likely used to more fancy food then this but once they tried some they dug in just as fiercely as the others. I had to break out the ice cream and heat up some hot fudge for dessert to sate their hunger.

We walked each of them home after supper even Apple Bloom each of us needing a bit of exercise after that big meal, we dropped off Apple Bloom last then we headed home. My little Angel must have had a long day and after that big dinner she was dragging her little hooves while we walked.

I scooped her up gently and she snuggled against me as we walked. "I hope you never get too grown up to let your Dad carry you... At least sometimes..."

"I won't..." She murmured.

We got home after awhile and I tucked her in with a kiss going out to clean up the big mess from supper, I lay back in bed hoping for another letter no matter how short but nothing tonight... With a sigh of longing I tossed and turned a bit before slipping off.

"Rick..."

I rolled over that voice so familiar in my mind...

"Rick!"

Twilight! I opened my eyes jerking awake. "Wha...?!" I blinked looking around finding myself in a somewhat familiar location, a star filled sky... Our bed... And... "Twi!" Lying across from me smiling beautiful but insubstantial, I reached out for her but my hands passed right through...

"Sorry my love, I've still got a long way to go to master this dream projection spell..."

"Doesn't matter love it’s just so good to see you." We both leaned forward kissing air.

"We should be back late tomorrow evening, I can't wait. Rarity and Pinkie Pie are getting a bit tired of hearing me talk about it." She giggled.

"Angel and I can't wait to see you, hear about what’s happened in the Empire."

"And I can't wait to hear about what’s happened at home..." Her form wavered slightly. "I'm sorry; I can't keep this up..."

"Not a worry, see you soon." We kissed air again.

"Love you."

Then she was gone, the stars faded and I slipped back into a far more restful sleep...

RIIING!!! Ugh, I slammed my hand down painfully on the alarm clock silencing it. I stretched in bed a moment waking myself up before rolling out and throwing on a robe heading downstairs to make some breakfast and Scootaloo's lunch.

I let her sleep a few extra minutes before calling her. "Angel! Time to get up!"

A few minutes later she came out of her room dragging her hooves sleepy eyed and adorably grumpy.

"Good morning Angel."

She clopped over to the washroom grumbling under her breath. "What’s so good about it...?”

I laughed to myself setting up breakfast for us both, she came out of the washroom about five minutes later still looking a bit grumpy but awake and ready to go. As we ate she got more animated maybe remembering Twilight was going to be home tonight.

"When's Mom going to be home?! Not before I get out of school right?"

"Not until late this evening Angel, you and I will make supper for the three of us then go and meet the last train and bring her home, how does that sound?"

"Great!"

"Be sure to let Sweetie Belle know Rarity will be home tonight too and Apple Bloom to let Inkie know Pinkie will be back too."

She ravenously chomped down the rest of her breakfast eager to get going, I met her at the door fastening her saddlebags for her and slipping in her lunch. I gave her a hug and a kiss on the forehead. "Have a great day Angel..."

She gave me a quick squeeze back then stretched out her wings and took off. "Thanks Dad!"

I watched her go with a smile then turned to go back in.

"Boy you sure got this 'Dad' thing down pat dont'cha Rick?"

I looked up in surprise to find Dash lying on one of the braches of our tree grinning down at me.

"Morning Dash, well... I'm trying..."

"Kinda makes me nostalgic for when I used to do stuff with my Dad... I miss that..."

"Not too late, I know you’re at odds about the Wonderbolts thing but I'm sure you both share an interest in the weather and maybe even flying..."

She laded with a thud beside me stretching her legs and wings. "Heh, you might just be onto something there..."

"Glad to help... Say, isn't it a bit early for you to be up?"

"Nah. I'm always up early on weather patrol days, doesn't mean I like it but hey it’s my job. But today there’s nothing! Not even a lousy Cirrus around! Booring! So I figured I'd drop by and do some reading if that’s ok with you?"

"Of course Dash you know you’re always welcome." I opened the door and she flew right in she already knew right where the Daring Do books were and grabbed the first two settling down on the couch to read.

"I've just got a few things to do around the house Dash don't let me bother you."

"Yeah, yeah..." She waved her forehoof at me dismissing me.

I chuckled to myself then cleaned up the kitchen looking through what we had to make sure Scootaloo and I would have everything we would need to make Twilights special supper tonight. I made some iced tea and put a glass and the jug by Dash as I made my way to the shower.

"Hmm...? Oh! Thanks!"

It looked like she was already halfway through the first book, granted she had read it before but Twilight had told me how these books had transformed her into a voracious reader and not just of Daring Do books but anything else she found interesting.

I looked myself over in the mirror wanting to look my best for Twi. Interestingly some ponies grew beards and moustaches’ so finding a grooming kit wasn’t a big deal; I got the clippers and trimmed my beard and moustache down just to the scruff that Twilight liked. My hair was fine though getting a bit shaggy; I hopped in the tub having a nice long hot shower. I finished and was halfway out of the tub when the door burst open (I hadn’t locked it naturally I was just so used to not doing so...) And Dash barged in; I quickly pulled the shower curtain over to cover myself.

"Dash! I'm in here!"

"Duh. You've been in here for twenty minutes, that iced tea was great but after three glasses it kinda goes through you pretty fast!" She gasped settling herself down on the toilet. "I reeealy gotta go!"

"Can't you wait until I...?”

The first splashes and Dash's look of relief told me she definitely couldn't and I ducked my head around the curtain embarrassed and to give her some privacy.

"Oh please Rick, it’s not like you haven't seen all of me at one point or another... All of us for that matter." She teased.

Well that was true, not that I went out of my way to look but... I'm a man ok, even my eyes get dragged over when they see something they like. It's instinct... Well that’s what I told myself at least.

"Not to mention I've seen you in all your glory, so grow up!" She laughed finishing up.

"Okay, okay..."

She washed up and left with a final chuckle as I looked out levitating my robe over, that Dash what a troublemaker... I headed upstairs to get dressed giving Dash a small glare which only made her grin. I put on one of my nicer outfits and went back down.

"Lookin sharp, what’s the occasion? I know me coming over is a big deal but no need to go getting all fancy." She teased.

"Not quite that big a deal Dash." I teased right back. "No, Twi is going to be coming home tonight finally; Scootaloo and I have been missing her so we're trying to make it special..."

"I bet I can guess which of you missed her more..." She grinned slyly. "Am I going to need my earplugs tonight?" She asked innocently.

"We'll probably use the sound suppression spell... I mean... Dash!" I fumbled my face going red again as she laughed.

"Wow, you are just too easy Rick. No wonder Pinkie and I stopped pranking you..."

Truthfully they did still prank me on occasion but a lot of the time depending on the prank I didn't fall for it to their annoyance, and if I did it was usually just with a sigh or even laughing along if it had been a particularly good one. As for pranking them back well I'm not much for that but I did get Dash once with a small electric shock and Pinkie once with the traditional 'snake' can (though I'm pretty sure she was just playing along.)

"At any rate... It'll be good to have her home, and Rarity and Pinkie too of course."

"You bet! Things are always more interesting when we're all here."

"Heh, I suppose that’s one way to put it..." I snagged a few books of my own to read sitting down on the other side of the couch from her, she flicked her tail at me playfully with a wink and mischievous grin and we both got lost in our books.

A couple hours later she was about halfway through her books and we both took a break for lunch, I started making it but she barged right in to help proving to be a fairly skilled cook herself. I guess she'd have to be living on her own as she did, we both made simple lunches bumping into one another occasionally in a bit of a race to finish first, naturally she was just that little bit quicker.

We ate and cleaned up before settling back down to read some more, it was a warm afternoon and that combined with trying to make sense of 'The dynamics of Pegasus weather control systems' was putting me to sleep. I picked the book in hopes of learning something more about what Dash and the other members of the weather team did but it was quite complicated.

Eventually I gave up setting the book aside and leaned back closing my eyes, Dash looked a little sleepy too yawning occasionally she usually took a nap in the afternoon I remembered but she was still focused on her book. I let myself drift off knowing Scootaloo would wake me up when she got home or Dash would when she left.

I had a simple dream, day-dream... Whatever. Long grass, flowers the sun in the sky and Twilight beside me. We laid there in a field her head in my lap as I stroked her mane and neck scratching behind and gently fondling her soft ears...

"Snort! Zzzz..." Woke me up suddenly I reached up to rub the sleep from my eyes but one of my hands was trapped by something, something soft... Looking down I was surprised to find Dash asleep her head nestled in my lap and my hand tangled in her wild mane.

I carefully untangled my hand from her mane pulling gently and untangling a few knots as I did. She was such a tough pony it was nice to see her softer side even if it only came out when she was asleep.

She made some small murmuring noises between her snores as I untangled her mane suddenly nuzzling against my... Well, crotch. Suddenly very aware of the position we were in I tried to pull away only to have her frown in her sleep scooting closer wrapping her forehooves around me pulling me close ending up sprawled out on the couch with her head thankfully resting on my chest rather then...

I breathed a sigh of relief still enjoying the closeness, she wasn't Twilight but she was a good friend and if she needed some snuggle time while she slept who was I to deny her? We lay there ten minutes or so as I gently stroked her mane while she snored when I had an idea...

I tried to remember where Twi kept it... Ah! I telekinetically opened the front door closet levitating out the camera aligning it in front of us hoping I was getting us both in frame as I pushed the button... Flash! I quickly hid the camera behind a chair as Dash woke up blurry eyed.

"Wha... I was having the nicest but slightly weird dream... Ahh!" She pushed away from me giving me an accusing glare. "What are you doing?!"

I held up my hands in surrender. "Just fell asleep over here on my own Dash... You little snuggle bunny..."

"What?! You take that back!" She shoved me off the couch standing over me looking a little mad but more embarrassed then anything.

I tried unsuccessfully to keep from laughing. "Sorry Dash... Really, I tried to fight you off but you were just too cuddly!"

"Why you... I'll get you for that! Her wings unfurled and curved down poking and nudging me finding sensitive and ticklish spots forcing me to try to return the favour while defending myself.

"Take it back!" She demanded giggling.

"Ok, ok! You, Rainbow Dash are most certainly not, not one of the snuggliest ponies I've ever met..."

She withdrew her wings with a triumphant grin. "That’s better... Wait a second...!"

That moment’s hesitation let me get the drop on her nudging her over onto her side pinning her wings against the couch while I tickled her mercilessly.

"Ahh! Stop, stop! No fair Rick!"

I knew I couldn't hope to hold her down long, she might be smaller then me but I well knew she had plenty of strength packed into that frame. "Alright Dash..." I let her go and sat back with a grin. "I'm sorry, for real. I know you’re not the kind to do much cuddling."

"Well it’s not like I don't like to... But I've got a rep to uphold you know? So you better not tell a soul!"

"Not a word out of me Dash, besides its not like I have any proof anyhow right?" I said hiding my mischievous grin.

"Well... Ok." We looked at each other for a second then both of us burst out laughing. Scootaloo got home a minute later and found us like that laughing like a pair of lunatics.

"Wow... Grownups are weird..." I heard her whisper as she went to her room to stow her saddlebags.

We finally caught our breath and sighed. "Well I'm going to go and check on the cloud scene, I can borrow these last two right Rick?"

"You bet Dash, see you tonight to welcome Twi, Rarity and Pinkie home?" We got up together stretching and still grinning.

"You know it buddy..." She looked over towards Scootaloo’s room for a second before sidling up to me. "Not a word..." She whispered.

I put the two books on her back taking the opportunity to give her a quick hug. "Not a word... Snugglebunny...'

"Hey!" She smiled good naturedly letting me hug her a second before pulling away and taking off.

"Rainbow Dash can I... Aww... She left."

"Sorry Angel she had things to do, what did you want to ask her?"

"Nuttin... Just some flyin stuff..." She seemed a little evasive about it so I let it go ruffling her mane.

"Just a few more hours..."

"I know! What are we going to do till then?!"

"Hmm... Homework!" I grinned.

"Aww..."

"I'll give you a hand, you did tell Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom right?"

"You bet! Sweetie Belle is so excited! And Apple Bloom promised to let Inkie know."

"Good."

We spent about an hour on her homework, it was still pretty standard stuff but I made sure to go over it several time to make sure she got the idea. Then we made a special dinner for Twilight making sure to include all her favourites and with the two of us making it together... Well, it wasn't the prettiest meal but there was a lot of love in it.

"Let’s go Dad! Let’s go! It’s almost time!" She practically dragged me out the door her eagerness only matched by my own. We rushed there and found quite a crowd waiting, Inkie and Mac as well as Apple Bloom and Applejack (it was getting a bit late for Granny I imagined she was fast asleep.) Sweetie Belle and her parents were there and even Dash and Fluttershy.

We all talked a bit waiting out the last half hour until the train arrived. Scootaloo soared up then quickly back down landing on my shoulders.

"It’s coming!"

We all lined up to the side keeping out of the way of the ponies waiting to board. The train pulled up and my heart was in my throat, ponies disembarked and got on and finally levitating dozen bags right behind Pinkie and Rarity she got off the train... Seeing her after so long, I was frozen my heart beating wildly the moment our eyes met. She let her bags drop galloping forward to throw herself on Scootaloo and I all three of us teary eyed.

"I missed you both so much!"

"I missed you Mom!"

We squished Scootaloo between us slightly as we kissed passionately.

"So happy your back love I missed you so much..."

Everyone else's greetings were similar, happy to have their loved ones home and glad to be home even Rarity for though she loved the beauty of the Crystal Empire she still loved her home, friends and family more.

It was getting late and we all parted ways promising to all get together to talk and tell of what happened in the Crystal Empire and everything Twilight, Rarity and Pinkie had done.

We walked slowly home side by side with Scootaloo happily circling around us Twilights bags levitated behind us.

"What’s with all the bags Twi? We barely took anything with us when we left..."

"Well... With all the traveling around the Empire and all the shop owners and ponies we met I did see a few things I wanted... For you and Scootaloo too not to mention our friends... Beside Cadence insisted..." She giggled as I squeezed her.

We came up to the library and she stopped with a gasp. "Home..."

I knelt down hugging her tightly kissing her neck; I scooped her up as Scootaloo opened the door. "Welcome home love."

I carried her to the table and sat her down as she left the bags by the door. "What’s all this?"

"We made supper Mom! I helped!"

"She sure did." I set out all we made and Twi's face lit up tears starting to fall as she looked at us, we both moved closer hugging her tight as she cried. "Everyday I thought to myself 'I wonder what Scootaloo and Rick are doing?' Wishing I was here with you..." She whispered.

I kissed her softly with a smile. "You were doing important things love, Cadence and Armor needed you. Someday the three of us..." I reached out and rubbed her belly softly. "The four of us, will have to go there and see just what you helped to make."

She smiled softly kissing Scootaloo on the forehead then kissing me. "Don't diminish your part love. We will visit; I've so much to show you. But later, for now I'm just so glad to be home."

We ate Twi exclaiming over every dish we had made for her and afterwards the three of us cuddled on the couch a small fire warming us in the evenings chill as we talked, well Scootaloo did most of the talking. So many questions and more then happy to tell Twilight about everything that had happened since we left and when I came back until her return.

As the fire burned out she was fast asleep between us our heads together watching her and each other.

So many things I missed...

Only a week and a little bit love, we'll catch up on everything... I emphasised by kissing her neck.

Oh!

We tucked our sleeping little Angel in and I carried Twilight up to bed undressing and climbing in together holding each other close.

"Mmm..." She murmured snuggling close. "I missed this most of all, I need you with me. You make everything right, without you everything seems... Empty."

"Twi..." I kissed her firmly running my hands over her. "I couldn't have said it better, even though I knew you'd be back I was so lonely. Even with Angel and our friends around... I still need you more then anything."

"And I need you."

She engaged her spell of sound suppression and we embraced our need and longing fuelling our desire time and again. Finally we collapsed together exhausted, entwined and totally at peace.

"I want to hear about everything love." I whispered to her as we lay there face to face.

"Mmm..." She kissed me softly shuffling closer to lay her head on my chest. "I do too... Tomorrow..."

"Tomorrow... I love you Twi, so much."

She snuggled against me I could practically feel her smile. "Only as much as I love you..."

I could feel her heart beating in time with mine, her scent, her every breath...

I've never slept better in my life...

Chapter 5 (Pink? Ya, we got that)

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I awoke feeling like a million bucks... Or bits, whatever. Twilight was spooned up right beside me her mane tickling my nose, I put my arms around her gently breathing her in, feeling her every breath and the twin beating of our hearts no matter how many times I experienced it... I couldn't get enough of it. I caressed her gently and made a surprising discovery! I hadn't noticed last night but her belly had expanded a bit, not a huge amount but it was noticeable.

I hadn't known she was awake until she rolled over to face me with a little smile. "This is really happening isn't it?" She whispered.

"It is... Everything we've done and seen so far, this is going to be our greatest adventure I think..." I grinned kissing her softly.

"Definitely... I'm still worried but... Together..."

"Together..."

We kissed again passionately our need for each other growing...

And interrupted by an exasperated groan from the stairs. "Can't you wait until I go to school at least?" A second later a little filly soared up landing between us for us both to hug tightly.

"Good morning honey, sleep well?"

"Sure did Mom, umm... Since you just got home maybe I should stay home from school so we can... Um... Bond...?"

"Now wait a sec Angel, just a few days ago you were eager to go to school!"

"Well... Yeah..." She grinned mischievously.

"Well... I guess you could stay home; I'm just going to be getting back into my studies. Do you want to help me catalogue my notes honey?"

Scootaloo immediately lost her grin looking more like she had swallowed a bug. "Uh... You know now that I think about it I've got to... Do... Something with Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom today so I better go!" She hopped off the bed and soared downstairs while Twilight and I chuckled.

"Sneaky mare." I smiled kissing her as I got up. "Better get her fed and ready to go before she changes her mind."

"Yes we better." I threw on a robe and we went down to get some breakfast and get our day going.

The next few days were pure bliss, you never know what you have until you lost it even if it’s just for awhile. I did know this already but it still hit me hard every time, everything got back to normal and Twi still had her studies but with Trixie gone for the time being she made some extra time for Scootaloo and I.

Whenever she was around... Well, I'm a toucher you see. I like... I love to caress, hold, kiss and cuddle... And with Twi's expanding pregnancy... Well I couldn't keep my hands off her, thankfully she didn't mind. She was just so soft, smelled so good... Maybe it was some pheromone she was giving off or maybe I just loved her so much this was a natural thing either way it was a wonderful time.

She didn't let her pregnancy slow her down any either she still had a million things she wanted to know, to study. I wasn't about to try to stop her though it didn't stop me from worrying.

One day she was in town doing a bit of organizing for the mayor then some studying of her own while Scootaloo was in school and I was doing some light gardening at home, pulling weeds and such from the few flower beds we had around the tree. I still practiced my 'earth' magic along with my other magic keeping it slow and steady, I had even connected briefly with the tree we lived in. It was old, very old. Likely it had been standing well before Ponyville was even founded; if it resented our intrusion within him I got no sense of it though I didn't stay connected long, baby steps.

I was kneeling down pulling a few resilient weeds when I felt a tap on my shoulder, I turned around but no one was there and I felt a tap on my other shoulder. I sighed and spun around to nothing again but a little giggle above my head, I reached up grabbing a soft pony pulling her down as I fell backwards looking up. "Gotcha Das... Pinkie?!"

She giggled again floating above me a dozen balloons holding her aloft. "Hi!"

"Pinkie how..." I stopped myself from beginning to explain how a dozen party balloon even filled with helium could never carry her weight, but why bother? Even if she understood what I meant it already happened! I just smiled pulling her down for a hug which she eagerly returned, if there was one thing Pinkie liked as much as making others smile it was hugging.

"So whatcha doing Rick?"

"Just a bit of gardening..."

The balloons suddenly popped above her and she squealed excitedly landing on me with her soft squishiness. "That sounds like fun!"

I smiled giving her another quick hug then gently pushing her aside as I got back to my knees. "I don't know about fun Pinkie... Just pulling weeds and watering."

"Like this?" She grabbed a weed in her teeth pulling it out.

"Ya, pretty much just like that..."

She spit the weed into the small pile I had made and went back for more. "Whut about thiss?" She asked her speech a bit muddled from the plant in her mouth.

"Uh no Pinkie that’s a petunia..." I took it from her and put it back in its place patting the dirt back into place.

"Sorry! What about this?" Another weed. "And this?!" Another flower...

"Pinkie..."

"And what about this?!"

I sighed but couldn't help but smile. "Pinkie, that’s a garden spade..."

"Oh?! I didn't think it looked like it belonged here..."

Desperate times called for desperate measures. "Say Pinkie, I think Twi's doing some magic practice over by town hall..." Sorry love.

"Ooh! That sounds fun!" And she zipped off.

I breathed a sigh of relief turning to get back to work when a pair of pink forelegs wrapped around me accompanied by a giggle. "One for the road." And she was off like a shot again.

I loved Pinkie and I did love spending time with her but if you were trying to accomplish something not related to baking or parties... No chance.

Around noon I decided to take a break and headed over to town square to see if Twi wanted to get some lunch. On my way a pink blur passed me. "Hi Rick! Bye Rick!"

I spun to say hi but she was already a good ways down the road. I smiled and continued on finding Twi shooing away a ribbiting... Orange?

"What was...?"

"Ugh, don't ask." She turned and gave me a piercing glare. "Did you sic Pinkie on me? She said she saw you at the house earlier..."

I tried to look as innocent as I could. "I don't know what you mean..."

"Oh really...?" She took a menacing step towards a mischievous grin on her face.

"Ok! You got me love, sorry. I hope she wasn't too much trouble?" I knelt down to kiss her pulling her close.

"I'll get you back for that." She smiled nuzzling my neck. "A bother? Well... Maybe to the local animal population... I've got to remember to cancel those spells..."

Just then Pinkie came tearing through again galloping like mad.

"Pinkie! What in the wide world of Equestria are you doing?"

She skidded to a stop making a big divot in the ground. "I'm timing myself! If I can just get fast enough I can help Applejack lift a beam up for the barn then make it back in time to see Rainbow Dash do an awesome dive! I just need to cut... Seventeen minutes..." She groaned.

Twilight giggled. "Oh Pinkie, I'm afraid no matter how fast you get you can't be everywhere! There'd just have to be more then one of you for that..."

Pinkie just stood there a moment her head cocked to the side and a confused look on her face that slowly spread into a wide grin as she sprung into the air. "The legend of the mirror pool!"

It was Twilight and I's turn to look confused now. "The what?"

"Thanks Twilight! Thanks Rick!" She took off galloping with us watching after her even more confused.

"Ookay... Break for some lunch Twi?"

She smiled leaning over to kiss me. "Sounds like a plan I'm starved."

We went to our favourite restaurant and had a nice lunch before she went back to practice and I back to finish up the gardening. I had been at it for about a half hour when I heard some hoof beats behind me.

"Hi Rick! I'm off to go swimming with Dash, do me a favour? If you see me looking for directions to Applejacks farm would you point me in the right direction?"

"Sure Pinkie... Wait, what?!" But she was already gone bouncing off towards the swimming hole. I shook my head watching her go, just messing with me... I got back to work thinking no more of it until I felt a tap on my shoulder again.

I sighed. "Pinkie, I thought you were going swimming with Dash?" I turned around to her smiling excited face.

"I did! I mean, I am! But I'm going to help Applesauce with her barn sized raisins or something..."

"Apple... Barn sized..." Now I was sure she was messing with me. "Ookay... Do you need directions to the farm like…? Uh, you asked me to give you?"

"You bet! Awww... I'm so thoughtful! And thank you... Um... Trick? Nick? Mick? No wait... Di..."

"Rick! It’s Rick, Pinkie."

"Rick!" She giggled lunging forward giving me a big hug but something about it seemed... Off. Almost like she had never given a hug before... But that was crazy she gave out dozens of hugs everyday! Must just be part of whatever game she's playing...

"Straight down this road and across the field and light woods and you'll be right there..."

"Thanks!" And with a flash of pink she was off.

Something was definitely up with her, this was more then her usual off the wall antics... Well I'd have to mention it to Twi later and see what she thought. I puttered around a bit longer before finishing up and heading back into town. I knew Scootaloo would be hanging out with her friends for awhile after school so I wasn't worried about her coming home to an empty house.

I did some window shopping, Twilight had brought us back such thoughtful gifts from the Empire she deserved something too. I passed by the jewellery store she wasn't much for jewellery her ring and necklace were the only pieces she ever wore. Quills, stationary, books, scrolls, ink...? So many choices but none seemed quite right... Suddenly something caught my eye, a blackboard! We did have one in the basement of course but often she filled it up and didn't want to erase anything to continue, this one was double sided with a rolling base so it could be flipped over perfect!

I was so absorbed thinking about her gift I failed to notice the pink pony looking in the window right beside me.

"Hi!"

I jumped slightly noticing her. "Hi Pinkie." She just grinned and zipped off. I was about to go in and make my purchase when she was back again with the same big grin.

"Hi!"

"Hi Pinkie..." I replied a bit wearily getting tired of her antics today but still at the same time glad she was who she was. She bounced away again apparently satisfied for the time being and I entered the store and bought the board and base and started carefully rolling it out the door and towards home.

A few steps out the door and guess who?

"Hi!"

"Hello again Pinkie."

"Wow... This board is so... Big... And black... What’s it called?"

"Um... A blackboard?"

"Really? Wow... I would have never thought of that!"

Before I could say anything else she noticed something behind me and was off again, yeah this was getting old... I made it about halfway home before my next pink encounter.

"Hi Rick!"

"Pinkie...!" I growled as I spun around and stopped dead, there was Pinkie and her big loveable grin but not ten feet away there was Pinkie balancing on top of a mailbox and further back in town there were flashes of pink all over... "Pinkie what’s going on?"

She looked over her shoulder and shrugged. "I have no idea. Whatcha doing? Something fun?!"

The other Pinkie apparently heard that and leapt off the mailbox galloping over. "Fun? Where?! I want to have fun!"

The first Pinkie turned excitedly to her. "I know! Isn't having fun just the most fun?!"

They started going back and forth excitedly getting faster and faster and making less sense by the second, I backed away quietly while they were distracted then turned to rush back home. Before too long I encountered a big group thankfully not of Pinkies but angry townsfolk gathered outside our house. Twilight was trying to calm them down looking a bit frazzled until she saw me and her look turned to relief until she saw the blackboard and her eyes widened.

Sorry love. That was supposed to be a surprise.

You didn't have to... I love it, thank you. Hurry though we've got trouble.

Of the pink kind, yes I've seen...

Quick some in we've got to do some fast research... what was it she mentioned... Something about a mirror pool...?

I think... I hurried in levitating the board through the door as Twilight reassured the crowd.

She slammed the door and we got busy searching, I thought she knew every book we had by heart but this 'Mirror Pool legend had clearly stymied her. We spent at least an hour going through every book of folklore and legends we had to no avail...

"What’s this?!" She exclaimed, she had her head and one foreleg jammed between two shelves grunting and trying to reach something.

"Let me love." She pulled her head back shaking dust off as I looked in, deep at the back of the shelf there was an emblem a upside down horseshoe. I reached in running my hand over it and it seemed to give slightly, I gave it a push. Click. The piece of the wall there slid up revealing a large dust laden tome.

"It seems our home has a few secrets yet love." I exclaimed as I pulled out the book presenting it to her, she blew off the dust and settled down putting the book between us as we began to sort through it.

There were quite a few old legends that neither of us recognised, the Merpony and the magic comb, The little blue colt, The snow mare, Pandora’s box... That one I did recognise and if such a thing really did exist here I was going to have to make sure to find it and get it somewhere no one would ever open it! But to the task at hand, about halfway through we came upon it, the Legend of the Mirror Pool.

A magic pool that would create a physical duplicate of a creature made of pure magic, little memory but they could learn and took mostly the same characteristics as the original. Clearly not a legend by the number of Pinkies around, and it hadn't been a legend to the ponies of old either as they had a spell detailed that could send the magic made clones back into the pool.

But there was a problem, the spell was capricious in its very nature, it could send back the clones but if the real Pinkie was hit... She too would be send back to the pool, trapped... We couldn't let that happen.

“Why did they make a spell like this?!”

“I don’t know love, maybe they were desperate? When it worked they just called it good and consigned it to legend washing their hooves of it…”

“Irresponsible…”

Armed with our new knowledge and the counter spell we rushed back outside to find the townsfolk almost all gone fled back to their home.

"Does anyone here know which Pinkie is the real one?!" Twi cried out.

Blank stares and shrugs all around.

"Which of you is the real Pinkie Pie?! Come forward!"

That got more attention, in moments we were surrounded by Pinkies all proclaiming their genuineness.

"Which one? Which one?! I can't tell!"

"Calm down Twi, we'll think of something..." The townsfolk had all fled and we weren't getting any answers here so we teleported into town, no help here either... Pinkies running amok having fun and everyone else hiding in their homes.

"What are we going to do Twi? How can we find the real Pinkie?"

"I don't know... Oh Pinkie, what have you done...?"

We came across a Pinkie unlike the others just sitting at a table morosely staring at the ground.

"Well I know that’s not the real Pinkie, she's never sat still that long in her entire life!"

"I guess..." It was unusual behaviour for Pinkie to be sure but we had no real idea what these clones were capable of... "Is there some sort of magical test you could do...? Hone in on their...?"

"A test! That’s it your a genius Rick!" She pulled me down kidding me passionately and then again with a grin. "That was for the gift, I've got an idea but we'll need everyone’s help."

We both looked around but couldn't see any of our friends.

"I'll head out of town looking on my way to get Futtershy and Applejack..."

"And I'll stay here and look around town..." I finished pulling her close kissing her softly. "Be careful, I know its Pinkie but... We don't know what these clones might do..."

"I will, you too."

She galloped off while my gaze was again drawn to the lone Pinkie leaning on the table; I walked over and sat down across from her.

"Hey Pinkie."

Her head shot up her light blue eyes wide as tears began to form and fall. "I'm so sorry Rick! I didn't mean for this to happen!"

I opened up my arms and she leapt across the table into them, the hug was warm, soft and very familiar. "Yeah... That’s our Pinkie." I whispered squeezing her tight.

"Me?! How can you tell?! I can't tell! We're so alike!"

"Who but the real Pinkie Pie would be so sad at the mess she accidentally created, just one." I tapped her gently on the nose.

"Maybe... Or maybe one of us realized the mess she made... We all made and feels just as bad?!"

"Maybe... Pinkie, do you trust me?"

"Y... Yes..." She sobbed.

"Do you trust Twilight, and all your friends?"

"Yes!"

"Then trust that they... We. Will all help you…”

"But...! I messed up! So bad... How could any of you, anyone in Ponyville ever forgive me...?"

I pulled her close again enjoying her warmth and her bubblegum scented mane from her favourite bubble bath. "I forgive you Pinkie. Just like that. And none of the others will be different I know. No one, even in all of Ponyville you give so much Pinkie. To everyone. Your only one mare... Well, you know what I mean."

"You... You really mean that?"

I wiped her tears away with a smile. "You know I do. Your not perfect Pinkie, none of us are. But you’re our friend, a friend to any pony in need! We won't let you go..."

"Hey Rick!" Dash’s voice came from above. "Bring that Pinkie and come on! Twilights got a plan; we're herding them all into Town Hall!"

"Ready to get back to there being just one Pinkie Pie?"

"Yes... But... What if you’re wrong?! What if I mess up again?!"

"You won't..."

"But...!"

"If that happens... We won't rest; we'll clone a hundred thousand Pinkies if we have to. To get you back. But that won't happen; you love your friends, your family. You won't let anything take you from them will you? Right?!"

"R... Right!"

We made our way to Town Hall the curious crowd parting to let us through, I could hear the dozens of Pinkies chattering away inside already as I pushed the door open and we entered.

"Just go sit with the others, it'll be ok Pinkie."

She smiled nervously making her way into the crowd; I tried to keep my eye on her but quickly lost her in the sea of Pink... I made my way over to the podium getting jumped on, over, tickled and hugged a dozen times. Each one felt just a little wrong...

"So what’s the plan Twi?" I whispered finally pulling myself up to her.

"It's really simple! Oh I hope this works!"

"I hope so too, I think I..." No, I didn't want to get her hopes up thinking I knew for sure which was the real Pinkie, I could still be wrong...

"What?"

"Nothing, are you ready?"

"Yes, you brought the last Pinkie. Everyone scoured the town for them, not that they were hard to find just say 'Fun!' and their all over you." She stepped up to the edge of the podium clearing her throat. "Attention Pinkie Pies...!" That got her a few glances but mostly they just kept doing what they were doing. "Ahem... SIT DOWN!" She thundered.

A sea of blank stares greeted her as they all plopped down. "That’s better! You Pinkies have all been brought here today to take a test..."

Groans all around. "Don't worry, it’s an easy test! The easiest you've ever taken, we're going to be... Watching paint dry!"

She levitated forward a hastily made wall freshly painted. "The last Pinkie left watching the wall gets to stay... The others have to be sent back to the pool... Ready? Set... Go!"

That got their attention and they all fixed their gazes on the wall, I still tried to pick out 'my' Pinkie but they were all fixated the same. Soon though cracks began to show a few Pinkies eyes began to wander and before long... "Hey guys look what I can do!" One of the Pinkies hopped up bending over backwards to show off.

A ray of energy blazed from Twi's horn striking the offending Pinkie turning her into a mist that floated away. That motivated the rest of the Pinkies to focus back on the wall but not for long...

Twilight was watching intently and every infraction was met with a blast from her horn, Pinkie after Pinkie disappeared. I hoped the real Pinkie wouldn’t let her focus slip even for a second. Hang in there Pinkie...

Their own fun loving nature doomed them from the start, they couldn't help losing focus or being distracted by one another or anything else they saw. I felt bad for them, not quite perfect copies of Pinkie they might have been but all they wanted was to have fun... Sadly their fun caused no end of trouble.

I mean, imagine if we could have separated them, let Pinkie spend time with each of them until they were indistinguishable from one another... Every city, town, village in Equestria, even the Crystal Empire could have had a Pinkie Pie making everyone’s lives better! Making so many friends... A pipe dream I guess, things don't always work out so well. It wouldn't be fair to Pinkie or to the duplicates; Pinkie was her own mare and deserved to be. I couldn't imagine Ponyville without her.

We were down to the last two, both of them intent on the wall. Dash apparently was bored to tears and couldn't wait a minute longer. "Hey look! Some pony is making balloon animals!"

Only one of the Pinkies twitched her eyes darting back and forth a moment before she sat up. "Where?!" Poof! Twi's last blast sent her away and there was only one Pinkie left sitting still staring intently at the wall.

"Pinkie... It's over; you can stop looking at the wall now.”

She blinked several times looking up at Twilight and the rest of us as we gathered. "It's... Over?"

"You’re the only one who wouldn't look away darling."

"Glad to have ya back Pink."

"I was so worried..."

"Ya gave us quite a scare there Pinkie..."

"I knew you could do it." Twilight and I echoed smiling to one another.

Pinkie burst out in tears rushing forward to hug everyone. "I just couldn't look away! I couldn't leave you all! I'm so sorry!"

As I expected everyone was forgiving, after all that’s what friends... Especially a group of friends like these did. She came to me last and I enveloped her in a big hug that felt just perfect. "There’s our Pinkie Pie..." I whispered to her.

"Thanks for believing in me... I am me right?!" She looked herself up and down quickly. "Yeah... I'm pretty sure I am." She grinned happily.

Thankfully that was over... Now we had a lot of work to do, the Pinkies... Over exuberance. Had damaged a lot of the town, thankfully no one had been injured. Not everyone was as forgiving as us but everyone in town knew her and loved her, her apology and promise to help clean things up was all they needed.

Everyone pitched in all around to help clean and repair the whole town and amazingly within a day or two things were as good as new. I was still amazed at the cooperation, the community here how everyone helped one another... Maybe not all Equestrian cities were like this but still, to find something like this where I had come from... Unlikely at best...

We examined the mirror pool its magic quite powerful, where did it come from? Who created it? We couldn't tell. With someone like Pinkie, a minor annoyance. Someone like Sombra... We couldn't destroy it so we sealed the entrance thoroughly informing the Princess's of its existence, mayhap it could be put to some use someday...

Whatever dwells within the pool had waited this long, it could wait longer I was sure.

Interlude: The temptation of Mares.

View Online

Another, lovely sunny day, I was on my way to the open market after Scootaloo headed off to school and Twilight began her studies after a little early morning fooling around. I did some shopping picking up a few things Twi had been 'craving' lately. Asparagus, celery and beets... Not separately either but served altogether or alternately liquefied into a drink she could enjoy while reading. It wasn't bad, a little strange to my taste but Scootaloo seemed to like it and it gave Twi a lot of energy. Which used up a lot of my energy! She knew exactly how to push my buttons and she seemed very amorous lately, granted all the increased attention I had been paying her and my not being able to keep my hands off her might have had something to do with it too.

I was just finishing up and was about to head back home when out of the corner of my eye I noticed a mint green 'shadow' behind me. I took a quick step back being careful not too trod on her as I swung one bags of groceries out and around so my right arm was on the other side of her surprising and causing her to let out an adorable squeak.

"Heya Lyra." I grinned.

"Rick! You startled me!" She accused with a smile her eyes dancing merrily.

"Haven't seen you in awhile, how are you?"

"Good! We got Bon Bon's shop all fixed up... You know, after the Pinkie thing."

"Yeah... I imagine her sweets were more then a little popular."

"Oh yes, still not as bad as the Cake's..." She giggled.

"You've reminded me though I should buy a bag of lemon sours from Bon Bon... Walk with me?"

"Oh!" She trotted alongside me happily as I started towards Bon Bon's shop. "I actually wanted to talk to you about something else..."

"Sure, did you need to know some more for your book?"

"Ha! You know I could talk about that for hours... Days! But I'm taking it slow like Twilight suggested, trying to find my 'inner writer'..." She sighed with a small grin as we approached the shop. "But so far it seems my inner writer is on strike..." She giggled.

She and Bon Bon talked while I got two bags of lemon sours, one for me and one for Scootaloo (she stole mine so often she had developed a taste for them.) As well as some peppermints for Twilight, she enjoyed sucking on one while she read occasionally. I paid and left surprised to find Lyra still by my side.

"I thought you would be staying with Bon Bon?"

"I'm going back, but I still haven’t told you what I need to though!"

"Oh right! I'm sorry Lyra, I kept distracting you."

"That’s ok! It's just... I know she's you friend and I just thought you should know..."

That sounded a bit serious. "What’s going on?"

"Well... I like to watch the train come in and all the passengers come off and get on, pony watching you know? But today I saw Fluttershy get off bawling and galloped off towards her home. I wanted to say something but I really don't know her that well... I haven’t seen her that upset since that griffon came to town to visit and was so mean to her! I thought I should tell one of her friends and naturally I thought of you first..." She blushed.

I thought about it a second putting down my bags to give her a quick hug. "Thanks Lyra, I'll go check on her. I appreciate you letting me know."

"Aww... Glad to, talk to you later ok?" She leaned against me a moment before smiling and prancing back to Bon Bon's.

I picked up my bags and headed home, Twi was down in the study so I put everything away then made her up a glass of her special drink taking it and a few peppermints for later down. She was reading of course and as usual I watched her a few moments my eyes never able to get enough of her, my hands never able to touch her enough, my lips and tongue unable to resist her taste, my nose never sated of her scent, my... Well you know... No part of me could resist her.

I sidled up to her sitting down and putting her drink and the peppermints on the table. I closed my eyes leaning against her and wrapping my arms around her gently trying not to disturb her too much just wanting to be near her. I rubbed her neck and back my wandering hands finding their way to her slightly expanded soft belly cupping it softly. I held her there breathing her in still amazed everyday at the life growing within, our son or daughter!

"Mmmm... I love it when you hold me..." She whispered.

I opened my eyes to find her beautiful purple ones gazing at me her book put aside as she put her forehooves over my hands. We both pressed forward to kiss softly then again with some heat.

"Love you."

She looked over spying her drink and smiled. "You spoil me so, but I love it."

"Nothings too good for you love, or Scootaloo and Starswirl..." I squeezed her gently.

"Hmm..." She kissed me again shifting over so she could lie against me. "I'm sure the spoiling Scootaloo and I receive is going to be nothing compared to what Starswirl is going to get..." She giggled playfully.

"You’re probably right." I laughed.

We held each other for awhile as I told her about Fluttershy and how she wanted to go see Trixie and what Lyra had told me she saw.

"Poor Fluttershy, do you think she lost her nerve before she made it to see Trixie?"

"Seems likely knowing her... But she made the effort and that’s something for her especially."

"Very true... Are you going to go see her? Should I come too?" She moved as if to get up but I held her close gently.

"You keep studying love; I'll go see if I can cheer her up. We're all getting together tomorrow night and we'll hear the whole story then I'm sure."

"You're right." She settled back down with a smile. "I hope she's ok, see you later."

"I'll let you know what’s happening." I pulled myself away kissing her again then kissing her belly. As I climbed the stairs I looked back to see her en engrossed back into her book sipping her drink.

I took one of the bags of lemon sours with me as I headed to Fluttershy’s cottage detouring slightly to stop at the school just catching the end of my Angels lunch hour she her friends and classmates were out playing and I made sure to divvy up the candy one for each of them... (Well maybe two for Angel.) I didn't have many left when the bell rang but that’s why I bought two bags.

I came up to Fluttershy’s cottage and tapped on the door but got no answer. "Fluttershy?" Nothing, I pushed and the door surprisingly it opened right up. Her living room was empty though and even the little critters that usually made her home their home were absent. "Fluttershy?!" I called out again as I quickly searched from room to room finding nothing.

I left the cottage looking around confused and worried when I felt a tug on my pant leg, looking down I found Angel bunny pulling and pointing back behind the cottage. "Ok, ok. Lead on..." I just hoped he wasn't leading me into some sort of trap...

Maybe a hundred meters behind the cottage was a small thorny thicket which he led me straight into down a small bunny trail. I was too busy covering my face and pushing branches aside trying to make my way through to curse at him or wonder where he was leading me but I swear if we get to where we're going and there’s a thorn free trail...!

Finally we broke through to a small dark clearing, luckily for Angel bunny there were no other trails but strangely he darted right back down the path as soon as we broke through leaving me. Looking around it wasn't difficult to find Fluttershy her bright pink mane and tail as well as her light yellow coat stood out even in the shadows.

All around her were small gifts left, acorns, walnuts and fruit. Small leaves filled with water, her animal friends had clearly been here trying to cheer her up already. Her head was buried in her forehooves while her chest was wracked with sobs.

I walked over quietly kneeling down hugging her gently. "Fluttershy what’s...?"

She jumped as I touched pulling and turning away. "Don't look at me! I'm so useless...!"

The anguish in her voice broke my heart; I grabbed her again gently pulling her to my chest soothing her mane as I held her. "What happened? I'll help if I can..."

She looked up at me her eyes red rimmed with tears still falling. "I... I..." She couldn't continue and buried her head in my chest bawling I just held her tight murmuring to her and stoking her long mane. Long minutes passed and she calmed down a bit, my shirt was a bit wet but that didn't matter.

"What’s wrong Fluttershy? Did something happen on your trip? Is Trixie ok?"

At the mention of Trixies name she stiffened looking up at me with her big green eyes. "Yes...!" And broke out crying again, between her sniffles and sobs I could kind of make out what she was saying.

"I... I went to surprise... Trixie!!!" She burst out again burying her face in my chest wailing.

I was definitely concerned, something bad had happened for sure but I wasn't going to rush her. "I remember Fluttershy..."

"It... It took me awhile to build up my nerve enough to even stand in line for a ticket and then to go into the concert hall at all! When I finally got in the concert was underway, I stayed in the back. It's not really my kind of music but I still enjoyed it and... Trixies light show..." She sobbed.

"Take your time Shy..." That made her sob even harder and I remembered that was Trixies pet name for her. "Sorry..."

She sniffed and continued. "The concert was fine but I knew she couldn't see me from where she was, I could have flown up but they had security around to keep that from happening and that would have been so embarrassing and far too many ponies looking at me! So I waited, when the concert was over they stayed signing autographs for awhile but I... I was still too nervous to get anywhere near them. There were so many ponies still milling around, leaving and partying it was all I could do to keep from running away! I kept to myself trying to avoid everyone until things calmed down..."

"And then...?"

"After about an hour almost everyone was gone, just a few cleaners around. I had been so busy avoiding everyone I hadn't noticed Sapphire and T... T... Trix..."

I squeezed her again comforting her as her tears started to flow. "It's ok."

"Thank you. They were gone! I rushed back behind the stage and found their dressing rooms, Sapphires was dark even her bodyguards were gone so I was sure she was too. But a little ways down there was... Hers... The light was on! I was so excited to have caught her and be able to surprise her! Turns out I was the surprised one... I quietly opened the door hoping to sneak up on her but..."

"What happened...?"

"She... She wasn't alone... A stallion and two other mares... They were... Were..."

I could see where this was going.

"How could she do that to me?! Why?!"

"I'm so sorry Fluttershy, people... Ponies make mistakes... Get overwhelmed by the situations their in, influenced... Did she explain... I mean, apologise? Something?"

"I... I was frozen peeking through that crack for a minute watching them... Watching my life fall apart... My mind raced, I fantasised about kicking that door open and denouncing her...! Her begging for my forgiveness... But I could never do something like that... I closed the door and found a washroom to cry in, for hours I cried, tried to reason it out. Come to terms with it, I still loved her... I still love her, but... I can't accept that betrayal was this the first time? Had she always been…? I steadied myself slinking back to her room; they were all asleep together... I looked around hoping to find she was drunk maybe... Drugs? Something to prove she wouldn't have done this on her own! But no..."

"Fluttershy you don't have to..."

"I need to tell someone; usually I would go to Rarity... But not for this..."

"Ok..."

"I couldn't confront her, as mad as I was... I am, I just... Can't. I took one of her autograph pictures and wrote her a letter... Telling her what I saw, and how it was over between us... I told her not to come back; I've got her stuff ready to send away I... I can't see her... Can't forgive... If I talked to her, I think she could convince me... I don't want to be that... A cuckold... I looked through her drawers and found the ring I gave her..."

She gestured over to the side and I noticed it there broken in two. "You worked so hard on that..."

"Doesn't matter... Nothing matters... What’s wrong with me?! What did I do wrong?! I tried! I tried so hard... I wanted to be with her so badly..."

She broke down again letting me hold her as she let it all out; finally she seemed cried out slumped against me. "Why am I so useless Rick?" She whispered. "Why can't I do anything right? Why?"

I stopped her lifting her up to look her in her sad eyes giving her a gentle shake. "Don't say that Shy. There’s nothing! Nothing wrong with you. You work hard; you’re so kind to the animals... To everyone! Even me. When you didn’t even know me you stood up for me. You may be shy but it’s adorable, you’re beautiful, graceful..."

I was interrupted suddenly by a pair of soft sweet lips pressed against mine; I could feel a breeze from her flapping wings. I held her a moment trying not to enjoy the kiss and think of a way not to hurt her already devastated feelings...

I pushed her away gently and her eyes fluttered open as she blushed heavily. "I'm sorry..." She whispered hanging her head.

I lifted her head up gently smiling to her leaning forward to kiss her soft nose. "Fluttershy, you are a beautiful, wonderful, amazing mare. Any stallion, any mare... Any man. Would be lucky to have you, in another world... If things had gone differently... But..."

"But you won't make that mistake..."

"I won't, I'm sorry."

"Don't be, I... I was just being silly, I just needed... Something. You and Twilight are so perfect together, and with a little foal on the way... You should never talk to me again..." She hung her head again.

"Fluttershy..." I lifted up her head again and hugged her tightly which she returned. "You’re our friend and you always will be. Trixie... Sorry..."

"It's ok..."

"She made a bad mistake, but it’s not a mistake you'd ever make. And that means a lot, maybe you'll forgive her someday I don't know. But please, forgive yourself. You did everything right. Ok?"

"Ok..." She sniffed. "Thank you."

I squeezed her again as we got up searching for the best way to get me out of this briar patch while she flew out. "That’s what friends are for."

That’s what friends are for...

Chapter 6 (Explanations and reasoning)

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It took me a good few minutes to fight my way out of the thicket even with Fluttershy guiding me from above, once I was free she went back to quickly gather up all the gifts her friends had left for her and we walked together back to her cottage. Angel bunny and the rest of her animal friends were waiting for us and mobbed her with hugs and cuddles as soon as she walked in.

"Thank you... Thank you all..." She cried hugging them back with tears in her eyes. After she finished with them I knelt down to hug her tightly as well at the door.

"Are you going to be ok?"

"No... But maybe someday..."

"Be strong, if you need me... Or Twilight, any of your friends you know..."

"I know, thank you again."

"Anytime Fluttershy."

"What... What are you going to tell Twilight?"

"The truth of course, she'll understand don't you worry."

"She'll hate me..." She hung her head breaking my heart again with the sadness in her voice.

I gave her another hug brushing her mane back from her eyes when she looked up at me. "Fluttershy. Your friends, good friends. You've been through a lot together and that counts for more then a tiny mistake..."

"But..."

"Oh she might be a bit mad but I think more at me then you." I stopped her before she could say but again. "Don't you worry, come tomorrow night when we all get together... Well no matter what they'll want to know what happened... Do you want me to ask Twi to keep it between the three of us...?"

"The... Kiss?"

"No! That is definitely between the three of us alone. I mean... Trixie...?"

"Oh... I'll tell everyone... If you think... Do you think they'll understand?"

"Without a doubt, you'll see."

I bid her farewell heading back into town still worried for her. It was almost time for school to be let out so I detoured again to wait for my little Angel to get out. Soon enough the three of them came barrelling out stopping when they saw me waiting.

"Dad!" She squealed soaring over to let me hug her tightly.

"Hey Angel, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle. How was school today?"

"Boring!"

"Interesting!"

"Great! We bin learning about agriculture in the old days!"

I could see how Apple Bloom would find that especially exciting and Sweetie Belle was always interested in new... Well in this case old things and I could definitely see how Scootaloo would find it tedious to the extreme. I gave her a comforting squeeze. "Don't you worry I'm sure you'll be studying something you like eventually..."

Her eyes lit up and she nodded enthusiastically. "Next week we’re going to be studying how they managed the weather in Ponyville in the old days!"

From Sweetie Belle and Apple Blooms rolled eyes I figured they'd already had a bit of an education on this subject from her, well then they'd be all the better prepared.

"That’s great, so what are you three up to? Can I ask a favour?"

"What’s up Dad?"

"Well, Fluttershy is down in the dumps and I thought a visit from you three might help her feel better. You could ask her about animal habits and care or maybe just help her out around the cottage. What do you say?"

"Sure!" All three echoed.

"Anything to help Fluttershy." Scootaloo nodded.

"Why is she sad...?" Sweetie Belle asked looking nearly in tears herself at the thought of Fluttershy depressed.

"Well... Its grownup stuff, just don't mention Trixie ok?"

"Why?! Is she ok?!"

"She is Apple Bloom. It's complicated, but it would hurt her feelings if you did ok?"

"Ok!" They all agreed.

I started to let Scootaloo down but she hung onto me for a moment sniffing at my breast pocket. She looked up at me with her big purple eyes and a little smile. "Please?"

I chuckled kissing her on the forehead. "Of course Angel." I let her down digging out my last few candies and giving them each one. "See you later girls!" I called out as they took off; I hoped they could cheer Fluttershy up a bit... How could those three adorable fillies do anything but?

I headed back home still a bit nervous about telling Twi exactly what happened... I made my way downstairs to find her stretched out on the cushions, since her belly had grown a bit she found it a bit harder to get comfortable. She must have been taking a break as she looked up as soon as I entered.

"Your back, what happened? Is she ok?"

I lay down beside her kissing her softly. "Bad news I'm afraid..." I told her what Fluttershy had told me and what she and I had talked about; she gasped in shock and shook her head sadly. "Um..." I cleared my throat nervously. "And then she kissed me..." I didn't give her a chance to react before breaking into apology. "She was just so depressed! Please don't be mad love, it’s my fault..."

"I'm not mad."

"Your not...?"

"Rick... Fluttershy is such a scaredy pony and a sweetheart, a friend to me, to us all! Sometimes she’s just so silly you can't help but hug her! So no it doesn't bother me that in the depths of her despair she reached out to someone who cared for her even if it was you. I trust my friends and you silly." She smiled laying her head on my chest.

"Oh... I see thanks... So... If Applejack kissed me you wouldn't be jealous?"

"Not a bit."

"Pinkie Pie?"

"I'm pretty sure she has kissed you! And on the lips too!" She giggled.

"She was just stealing the frosting stuck on the side of my lip!"

"Sure, sure..."

"Rainbow Dash...?"

"Still no..." She sounded a bit less sure though.

"Rarity...?"

She sat up and glared at me a moment. "No..."

"Lyra...?"

She growled slightly rolling on top of me pinning my shoulders down with her forehooves. "Yes. Your mine, not hers or anyone else’s!"

I'd been a bit of a dick and I knew it, I rolled her back onto the pile of pillows suddenly kissing her savagely. "So beautiful when your angry love, and aggressive too. I like it..."

"Oh really...?" She raised her eyebrow smiling slyly. "Then here’s what you’re going to do..."

Afterwards we lay snuggled together breathing heavily as our hearts calmed down.

"Love you so much Twi, and I really am sorry... And for teasing you too."

"Silly, if you can't tease your soul mate who can you? I love you so much even if you did... No. I don't want to think about it."

I gently tilted her head up and kissed her. "Never happen love. Never. So what about Trixie...?"

She sighed sadly. "It would be best if she stayed where she is... For now, I'll have to write the Princess and... Well I don't know, let her know Trixie won't be apprenticing here anymore..."

"She really messed up this time..."

"She did but... Well, I can understand what she was going through..."

"Oh?"

"Being Princess Celestia’s student is a rare honour, she only takes one at a time... I was quite young when I first became her student, she kept me well sheltered I went to classes with the other students at the junior Canterlot school of magic and attended private lessons with her when she could. Being unknown was nice but as I got older and more well known as 'Celestias student'... I also heard a lot of 'Celestias pet'..." She grimaced.

I chuckled. "Sorry love, I can just picture a young filly you getting very disgruntled at hearing that."

She smiled snuggling against me. "You'd be right about that, I went to the Princess about it but she just smiled. 'Don't you worry about what others think about you Twilight Sparkle, what really matters is what you think.' Good advice but at the time I certainly didn't think so... So I ignored the gossip and tried to lose myself in my studies but as I got older yet it got even harder to ignore them... Suddenly something changed, the teasing stopped and every pony wanted to be my friend! It was great at first even Princess Celestias nephew Prince Blueblood was paying attention to me! He was the most handsome and popular stallion at Canterlot high!"

I hated him already.

"He and his group of friends invited me to hang out with them all the time, mostly we just loitered talking about how great he was and by extension they were too and kind of making fun of other ponies... I... I never really joined in; it didn't seem right to me but..."

I squeezed her gently. "But you were popular..."

She nodded blushing slightly embarrassed. "Yes... It's funny to look back on it now. That was all that mattered. I was popular. Not that my 'friends' were kind of stuck up jerks, not that they rarely included me in anything and that they always used me to 'help them out' by doing their homework all the time... As time went on my grades began to slip a bit, the Princess was concerned but... I... I lied. Told her I had just been too busy studying other things... And she lightened my workload! I felt so guilty! I still do a bit..."

I could see where she was coming from; I had seen plenty of 'cliques' and groups of friend whose sole connection was believing they were better then everyone else when I went to school. Not my thing, I was... I guess you could call me a geek, D&D, comic books, video games and all that. I never really got picked on though, could have been my disposition or the fact I had a few friends here and there in a lot of the groups from the jocks, nerds, geeks, 'head bangers' as they were called in my day even a few with the preps... Or maybe it was because at five foot ten and about two hundred pounds with the ability to leg press almost a thousand pounds I was a bit imposing... So while I hadn't experienced what she had I could understand it for sure. "But that wasn't enough for them was it?"

She sighed. "No... It wasn't, I was still doing their homework and assignments but they found out as Princess Celestias student I was allowed in places others couldn't go... She had given me a set of keys that would let me get into almost any room in the school and even some in the palace! At first it was like a game, we'd sneak into the palace down in the unused dungeons to snoop around, smoke and drink alcohol stolen from their parents... I almost threw up the first time they convinced me to try to smoke! I didn't try again and tried to avoid drinking but the kept pushing me and pushing me until I did, I spit it put as soon as I could though eeyuch... Not like getting together with some real friends and a bottle of wine. They liked to break things too vandalizing just for the thrill of it, it was always cleaned up whenever we came back though and no guards to try to catch the culprits either... I didn't understand it at the time but now I see we were keeping Alizarin busy... Remind me to apologise to him will you?"

I smiled squeezing her again and kissing her neck. "I will love."

"But even that wasn't enough for them; they wanted to see parts of the school and castle that no one else was allowed in. Parts I hadn't even been in! But I had the keys for... I tried to resist, convince them how wrong it was! But they didn't listen, called me a little foal, teachers pet... I tried to resist I really did! But Blueblood tried a different tactic, stared calling me his 'special little mare'... I cracked..."

Now I really hated him.

"I led them to the archives, no not the ones we're familiar with that Alizarin oversees these are higher in the castle containing information on every pony in Canterlot! Maybe even all of Equestria! They all had minor embarrassments on their records they wanted to expunge... We snuck in easily enough it wasn't considered a high security area so there was rarely even a patrol that passed by. We entered shutting the door behind us my heart was racing a mile a minute as I numbly followed in their hoofsteps then the all spread out to find their own individual files. I just stood there frozen and watching until Blueblood sauntered up perusing his file and dropped another before me. 'Found yours babe, take a look.' He went over to compare notes with his friends as I stared at the file before me; I opened it slowly my guilt overcome by my curiosity. It was written in the Princesses neat script first outlining my family and how I came to her attention and became her student then going on to praise my academic achievements and some she thought I was ready to begin... I... As I read further she went on to write how I was her most promising and favourite student! I burst out in tears lost in my own guilt and sadness not even hearing a routine guard enter and my 'friends' all sneak away without a word to me... And that’s how the guard found me, sitting on the floor alone crying over my file. He clearly didn’t know what to do so he took me to the one pony that would...

"Princess Celestia..." I whispered stroking her mane trying to comfort her.

"Yes... I think I resisted all of a minute before bursting out in tears again and confessing to everything! I thought for certain she would expel me not only as her student but from regular school as well! She didn't of course... She sat me down as I cried and sniffed holding me tightly as she told me a story... About how she and her younger sister went to the very same school I did, as the older sister and heir to the throne naturally many sought to befriend her and for a time she too fell into the same trap I had, popularity, peer pressure... But her sister... She was an outcast, not as 'important' as her sister and too different for other ponies to approach her... She didn't fit into any of the groups and as time passed she grew more and more depressed. Princess Celestia told me she woke up the moment she caught her sister behind the school cutting herself 'just so she could feel something'... That was her moment of clarity, realizing she was hurting the one who loved her the most. Leaving her alone while she enjoyed the fame and adoration of others... A mistake she made more then once she whispered sadly. I didn't understand it at the time but now I know. That was my moment; I wasn't only hurting myself but Princess Celestia who had put her faith in me! My parents, my brother... She never punished me though nor any of the others but she must have said something to them or maybe their parents because from that day on I was an outcast, teaches pet, bookworm... I didn't care, I'd had my fill of 'friends', the Princess sent Spike to be my assistant though maybe now I think just so I wouldn't be alone... Eventually she sent me to Ponyville and I resisted but finally I found out what true friends were and the rest as they say is history...

"Leading up to this day and I'm so glad she did." I smiled holding her tight.

"Mmm..." She nuzzled against me. "I do feel bad for not warning Rarity about Blueblood but I knew she had to find out for herself, I hoped maybe he had changed over the years but it appears not... So I know how Trixie might have felt... I just hope this was her moment and someday, maybe... Someday she'll be able to make it up to Fluttershy..."

"I hope so too..."

Chapter 7 (There are no Bad Seeds)

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The next day passed quickly all three of us eager for the get together this evening, Rarity insisted she be allowed to host it at Carousel Boutique and had invited Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom and Scootaloo as well so I imagined she had entertainment plans for everyone.

Later afternoon came Scootaloo had come home from school and zipped off just as quickly saying she'd meet us there. Twilight and I left the library in no real hurry walking side by side taking a moment or two to chat with the ponies we met, the sun began to slip towards the horizon and we could see some of the weather patrol ponies out arranging the clouds for a scheduled shower later this evening.

We approached Carousel Boutique and the lights were on and we could hear voices within clearly some of the others had beaten us here. I tapped on the door as Twilight balanced a tray of snacks we had prepared for our 'potluck' get together.

"Coming..." Rarity called out moments before the door opened and she smiled warmly at us. "So good to see you both, everyone’s gathering in the parlour please join them." She levitated the platter before her and disappeared into the kitchen.

We entered the parlour and were surprised by several hoof full’s of confetti throw on us. "Surprise baby shower!" Everyone called out including Rarity who must have rushed through the kitchen and around to be a part of the surprise. Everyone was there, Rarity, Pinkie with her bagful of confetti, Applejack, Dash and Fluttershy looking a bit morose but she put on a brave smile. Also Big Mac and Inkie and last but not least Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom but also Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon!

Twi started a moment before bursting into tears; I knelt down to hold her tight. "Thank you all I think is what we want to say..." I grinned. She nodded smiling through her tears then rushed forward to hug each of them including a bit flustered Big Mac.

"How...? When...?"

"Heck Twi we bin thinkin an plannin on this since ya first told us!"

"Very true, we had to keep things quiet. We only let the girls know today so they could get you a little something..."

"That’s not nec..."

"Please Twilight; you do so much for us. Let us do something for you for a change..." Fluttershy blushed at her own outburst.

"Ya come on Twi, it’s not everyday something like this happens!"

"Thank you Rainbow Dash, thank you everyone... I'm just so grateful..." She couldn't hold out any more and burst into happy tears again everyone smiling.

"Come and sit please, we all have gifts for you first then we'll have some dinner..."

There was a comfy seat set up for Twi with a chair beside for me, Scootaloo rushed up first wait a package held in her teeth she put it down in front of her.

"Me first, me first!"

"Honey you didn't have to..."

"Nu uh Mom! I wanted to!"

"Thank you... Ooh!"

"What?!"

Twilight smiled putting Scootaloo’s hoof on her belly, she held it there a moment confused then yanked it back. "Ahh! What was that?"

"See, Starswirls thanking you too..."

That set off everyone crowding around to feel the tiny kicks until they settled down then she levitated up the package opening it carefully revealing a soft warm blanket dark blue in color.

"It's beautiful honey... How did you afford this?"

"Well... I knew I wanted to get something for you so I've been saving some of my allowance every week..."

We both hugged her tightly between us. "I think I know a little filly who’s going to be a great pet owner this summer." I whispered.

"Really?!"

"For certain honey."

She sat between us happily as Sweetie Belle pushed up a large beautifully wrapped box. "I got this for you!" She squeaked excitedly.

Twi opened the box and levitated out a meticulously made mobile with stars modeled after her own cutie mark, moons and suns all amazingly hoof stitched and by Rarity’s proud look I could guess by whom.

"I had to promise to do a lot of chores to get it for you!" Rarity blushed slightly at that comment but I think by the amount of time she must have put into making it that she had intended for Sweetie Belle to give it all along.

"It's lovely, thank you Sweetie Belle."

"Mine's not as pretty as those two but I hope you'll like it anyhow..." Apple Bloom pushed forward a plainly wrapped brown package which Twilight opened with a smile. Inside were a dozen jars each individually labelled, Zap Apple, Golden Delicious, Carrots and Potato’s and more.

"It's baby food! Granny and I made it special for ya!"

"Thank you Apple Bloom and be sure to thank Granny Smith for us too."

"Ah will!"

Big Mac and Inkie stepped up next a large blanket covered form between them; they theatrically pulled the blanket back exposing a plain but beautifully carved crib.

"Big Mac! Did... Did you make this?" Twilight gasped.

"Eeyup... Well Inkie helped..."

"Ha... Held your tools you mean."

"Ya were my inspiration... For someday when we..." He blushed slightly with a smile.

Inkie gasped her eyes now filling with tears as she threw herself on him causing the rest of us to smile and 'Aww...'

Diamond Tiara stepped up looking a bit nervous and probably feeling a bit out of place, we both smiled warmly to her as she levitated over a small envelope. "You saved my life and I can't ever repay that, I know Dad and Mom won't let you pay for anything at the store so I got him to make up this..."

Twilight opened the card pulling out a small laminated card that simply read. 'The bearer of this card is entitled and encouraged to never pay at any location of Richs Barnyard Bargains.'

"Dad says as long as there’s a Barnyard Bargains in Ponyville or anywhere in Equestria you'll always be welcome and your children and their children!"

"Thank you Diamond Tiara, that’s very generous of you and your family."

She blushed and backed away as Silver Spoon stepped up looking even more nervous. "I... I don't know if you'd ever need anything like this but..."

She pushed over a small lacquered case Twi levitated it up opening it, inside was a small set of silver spoons clearly meant for baby feeding. "These are beautiful Silver Spoon..."

"They were mine when I was a foal..."

"Oh we couldn't..."

"Please, they don't get any use at my house... Mom and Dad just got them because of what they named me I think. I just want someone to use them, enjoy them... After all you saved my life too."

I smiled and gave her a hug. "Thank you, we will put them to good use."

Rarity stepped up next smiling and excited. "I made these for you both..."

She levitated us each a package and we opened them, for me she had made a chest harness perfect for carrying a sleeping foal leaving my hands free. Beautifully made and for Twilight one that strapped around her chest and could keep a foal secure on her back while she walked or worked, naturally they both matched.

"Thank you Rarity!" We both echoed each of us giving her a hug.

Fluttershy stepped up next pushing a good sized beautifully wrapped present in front of us. "I... I hope you like it..."

Twilight unwrapped it carefully revealing a small wash basin carved from a single piece of wood with animal and plants decorated all around it.

"Fluttershy this is amazing... Did you do this yourself?"

She nodded. "It took a long time, but I wanted something special for you both and the baby..."

We pulled her close hugging her tight. "This means a lot to us both Fluttershy thank you." I whispered.

She looked at Twilight blushing slightly. "Are we... Ok?"

"Of course we are Fluttershy! Don't you worry about it a second more."

"Thank you, and thank you Rick for sending the girls over to keep me company... It really helped."

"Me next!" Dash zipped up with a wide grin.

"Oh? Another 'Dash token'?" Twilight asked with a grin.

"No! I worked hard on this one... I mean... Just take it..." She groaned passing over a small sized box.

Twilight opened it and out spilled a small cloud! We both reached out to catch it and somehow we succeeded?! It was amazingly soft and fluffy but still surprisingly heavy, we both looked at Dash wide eyed. "Dash... How did you...?"

Her cocky grin returned and she giggled. "I knew you'd like it! Well, we all got together so no one would get gifts for you that were the same. So I knew Big Mac was making the crib and I thought what could be more comfortable for a new foal to sleep on but a cloud?! But only Pegasus can do that normally, but the idea was stuck in my head so I searched high and low for a way eventually I had to go tot he only pony I knew... Other then you Twilight, who might have an idea what I could do, my Dad... He understood right away what I was trying to do and before too long he had an idea. There’s a by product of cloud production called Alfven, its basically super dense cloud matter so dense even any of you could walk on it! But it’s really heavy so my Dad and I...

I could see and hear the excitement in her voice and the smile that crept onto her face every time she mentioned her Dad I was glad to see they had come together and bonded a bit over this.

"...We dragged out the size I thought I would need and we slung it between us, we had to thin it out! And the only way we could think of to do that was to fly! Fly as fast as we could with it stretched between us thinning it out just enough so it would still support a foal but not float away!"

"That’s incredible Dash, you and your father could go into business! Everyone would want a pillow or mattress like that!"

"Good idea Rick but it takes thousands and thousands of clouds to make even that much! Mostly they just use it as ballast storing it along with the water to keep Cloudsdale from floating too high, eventually it dissolves and becomes water again."

"It's wonderful Dash." Twilight exclaimed hugging it then pulling Dash over for a hug between the three of us.

"Great idea Rainbow Dash!"

"Thanks squirt..." She replied ruffling Scootaloo’s mane.

"Well I recon I'll go next then..." Applejack pushed over a large box with a grin. "Ah know this ain't exactly your kinda thing but ah spent many happy hour with it when ah was a foal..."

Intruded we quickly unwrapped the gift exposing a miniature barn filled with everything you could imagine there would be on a farmstead, chicken, pigs, cows, bales of hay, apple trees of course and even ponies... I hadn't ever seen any pictures of Applejack, Apple Bloom and Mac's parents but from the five small carved figures one red, orange, a dark yellow one and a tiny one a lighter yellow I could only assume the last two, a white mare and a brown stallion represented them... It must have been made before Apple Bloom was born I guessed.

"Mah daddy made it fer me an Mac, ya can always regift it to either of us if we ever..."

"Absolutely!" Twi gasped hugging Applejack tightly. "It belongs in your family, but if your willing to loan it for awhile..."

"We'll make sure Starswirl treats it well." I finished.

"Shucks I ain't worried..." She smiled her forehoof lingering on it a moment before she stepped back.

"My turn! My turn!" Pinkie bounced up excitedly tossing four boxes to us, two for Twilight, one for me and one for Scootaloo. "Open them! Open them!" She was practically vibrating in excitement and anticipation.

I opened mine and found a fine silver chain with a small charm on it in the shape of a rearing stallion with 'Daddy' etched into one side and 'Rick' into the other, Twilights charm a pregnant mare with 'Mommy' and 'Twilight' on the other side. Scootaloo's a Pegasus with wings spread 'Sister' and 'Scootaloo' naturally and last but not least a crib with 'Baby' and 'Starswirl'.

"Blinkie and Quartz made them for me! For you! For us?!" She smiled and shook her head. "Do you like them?!"

In response all three of us put our necklaces on pulling her close for a group hug.

"Thank you Pinkie their beautiful."

"Aww... Thanks Twilight! Sorry about it being a stallion Rick they really weren't sure how to make a human one look!"

"It's still great Pinkie, no worries..."

Twilight stood up a little teary eyed and leaned against me. "Thank you all so much! For this surprise... And the beautiful gifts..." She burst into happy tears again.

"Now, now darling. No need for tears, it's no less then you would do for any of us. Let’s all have something to eat, and I believe Fluttershy has something to tell us?" Fluttershy jumped slightly hiding behind her mane; she must have talked to Rarity after all...

We all got comfortable as Rarity and Sweetie Belle brought out the food brushing off any of our attempts to help, everyone had brought a little something and all put together it was a huge meal for us all. As we ate Fluttershy began telling everyone what happened in small dibs and dabs with some gentle encouragement from Rarity, Twilight and I. She left out some parts that were unsuitable for young fillies of course.

Everyone was shocked or angry some both but Fluttershy made very sure to tell everyone that she didn't want any of us treating Trixie badly if we happened to see her again or spreading any nasty rumours about her. It was her problem and she was dealing with it, I was proud of how she was handling everything.

We all promised, then Pinkie promised (some a bit reluctantly, Dash and surprisingly Inkie were the most outraged.) Then we tried to enjoy the rest of the meal talking and laughing together to drive away unhappy thoughts. After dinner the girls went out to play and the more... Sordid parts of Fluttershy’s story came out; to distract ourselves we played a few games. Some cards (a game called BS), cribbage and even Pictionary. Earth and Pegasus ponies being surprisingly good at drawing with their mouths, while Twilight and I didn't have a lot of artistic talent we could however cheat quite easily... But we didn't! Well... Just once to keep us from losing too badly, ten to nothing is bad but ten to one... A little better.

By the end of the night we all had a lot of fun and the issue with Trixie was... Forgotten? No. But for the moment everything was ok.

We made our way home all three of us tired but in a good way, I was carrying our sleepy little Angel as we walked Twilight levitating all the gifts behind us. We got home and tucked her in then sat on the couch to relax a moment looking over the beautiful and thoughtful gifts we had been given. Then I scooped her up and carried her up to bed, she was a little heavier to be sure but that was no deterrent to me.

We cuddled together under the sheets both of us yawning a bit.

"I'm so happy..."

"With the gifts?"

"With everything, our friends, our children, my husband..." We kissed softly in the dark rain just beginning to strike the windowpanes.

"Same here love... It's all so amazing, you’re so amazing..."

"I love you..."

We drifted off the gentle patter of rain lulling us to sleep warm and content in each others embrace.

Spring break a time for fillies and colts to have some fun, and their parents to pray for school again... Well, maybe some parents... Also the time of another Ponyville, maybe all of Equestria tradition. The Harvest Parade, I was a little confused at first seemed more like something that should be done in the fall... But Twi explained in the fall everyone would be either harvesting or getting ready for the winter or both! Might as well enjoy it now while everything was fairly relaxed.

Scootaloo and her friends had a plan to make a float of their own for the parade like plenty of other ponies also they were excited to meet Apple Bloom's cousin from Manehattan Bab something or other... Twilight wasn't interested in making a float but was excited to see the parade, her belly had expanded even more quite visible now and she was still a bit self conscious about it. I helped her feel better about it any way I could... Usually by throwing her (gently) onto the bed and ravaging her.

I was taking a walk around town after checking the boarder looking at everyone’s floats in construction, some ponies were working in secret but most were out for all to see, I stopped here and there to lend a hand to any pony that needed some help.

Near the edge of town I came across an older home a little unicorn filly she had a blonde mane and tail and a light purple coat, she was stuffing flowers of all kinds onto a makeshift float while a familiar blonde and grey mare flew around it draping ribbon over it until she cut it a bit too close bumping the... Well I wasn't quite sure what they were trying to make...

"Oh no!" They cried out together as it started to tumble, I quickly caught it in a telekinetic field pushing it back into place, it was quite light and didn't seem to be fastened at all so I could see how it could fall over.

"What?" The blond Pegasus looked around confused then spotted me smiled and soared down. "Rick! Thanks for the help."

Convinced it wasn't just going to fall back over I released it and smiled to her. "Anytime Derpy..."

Hearing that the little filly stomped up her face screwed up in anger. "Dats not my Mama's name!"

"What...?"

"Dinky don't be rude!"

"But he's the one bein rude mama!"

"I don't understand..."

Derpy sighed and patted her daughter on the head. "Go gather some more flowers baby, but stay where I can see you ok?"

She gave me one last dirty look then galloped off. "Ok mama!"

"Sorry about that Rick, she’s very protective..."

"I can understand that but what did she mean? I wasn't trying to be rude what did I say?"

"Long story... My name is Ditzy Doo really..."

"Then how...?"

She put her forehoof up to stop me. "I'll get there, I've never been the straightest flyer and with my condition... I can see fine really it's just fast turns and stops throw me off balance... And admittedly I am a bit of a klutz at times..."

"Aren't we all?" I grinned.

"Well I don't know about that... At flight school I got teased... A lot, Fluttershy too but she was even shy to me! We never did get close, too bad... I got used to the teasing really but the nickname stuck... Derpy..."

"Why do peo... Ponies all call you that then?"

"I really hated it at first, but as I... I'm not sure, grew a thicker skin? It began to bother me less and less eventually I just took it as my own and they couldn't tease me with it any longer. Ponies who are my friends like Rainbow Dash and all the other mail ponies call me Derpy... But they don't use it like a taunt or tease like others used to back then, they laugh along with me when I accidentally knock something over! But once Dinky got old enough to understand and I told her a bit about my childhood... Well, she doesn't like it. I'm fine with it so don't worry please, my friend’s call me Derpy and I'd like to think your one of them..."

"I understand and I apologise, I'll try my best to call you Ditzy when she’s around. What does your husband think about it?"

"Husband...?" Her eyes turned overcast as looked over towards Dinky.

Damn opened my big mouth too soon again. "I'm sorry I shouldn't have..."

"It's ok... It was awhile ago, I was naive... I thought he cared for me not just looking for a roll in the hay..."

"Hmm..."

"It's not bad really; when he heard I was pregnant he left me some bits before he left. I guess he thought he owed me that much, never saw him again..." She sighed then smiled. "His loss, the bits didn't matter to me he gave me the best gift anyone ever could..." She gestured over towards Dinky.

"I can see that, I thought... Don't you have another daughter?"

She smiled looking over towards her house drawing my gaze over to catch a curtain falling back into place. "Sparkler... I lived in Hoofington at the time, after he left I was depressed, alone and confused. Hoofington is a nice city, a big city but... A lot of fillies and colts are on their own there... She was living on her own, on the street I saw her everyday on my way to work, she always had a hopeful smile even on the days I didn't have any spare bits for her, always happy to see me... I thought maybe it was just my appearance but she never seemed to treat me any differently, before too long I couldn't stand seeing her life that and brought her to live at my apartment. There were still many, many orphans out there but I thought if I could make a difference with just one!"

I reached out and squeezed her shoulder comfortingly.

"Thanks... But I couldn't help her there; I didn't make much money and could barely feed myself and my growing appetite besides paying the rent let alone the two of us! Eventually three! I searched and searched for a new job but for a mare like me... Well there wasn't a lot of opportunity, thankfully a co-worker of mine brought up the idea of rural and small town mail delivery. It didn't really pay all that much more but out here..." She took a deep breath smiling happily. "I found a job I love here and this old beautiful house the rent on it is a tiny fraction of what my old apartment was! Everyone here is so friendly too, even found my old friend Rainbow Dash! And a special somepony..."

"Oh?"

"Time Turner, he makes all the local watches, clocks and sand timers! He's so good to us! Well... He and Sparkler have a bit of love / hate relationship, she’s just moving into her teens and you know how it can be..."

"Right... I dread when Scootaloo gets there..."

She giggled adorably; I admit I had thought she was... Special. But she was just as smart and knowledgeable as any mare, once you got used to her eyes; well there was nothing wrong with that either. I was glad this Time Turner fellow could see that.

"Worried already and with one on the way too..."

"Well I just want the best for them..."

"I know how you feel, these two mean the world to me. Anyhow what brings you here?"

"Oh! I was just looking around town taking a sneak peek at everyone’s floats..."

"Well... Ours is a work in progress as you can see..." She giggled. "Sparkler actually came up with the idea and we decided to do it as a family but... Dinky won't listen to Sparkler and when I tried to get them to compromise Sparkler stomped off and locked herself in her room in a huff..."

I chuckled as Dinky galloped up depositing another random assortment of flowers and weeds before rushing off again.

"Such a cutie." I grinned.

"She is. Sparkler is a dear too. See this was her plan..."

She passed over a small workbook filled with drawings and poetry, clearly Sparkler was going through a bit of a 'Goth' phase as it was all dark and depressing stuff, beautifully drawn and written none the less. At the end of the booklet was a sketch of a float following the same motif I could see why Dinky didn't like it, might be a bit spooky for a little filly or she might just want to make trouble for her sister a little sibling rivalry...

"An... Interesting idea, how did you try to get them to compromise?"

"Oh, I just suggested we combine what they both wanted to do... That didn't go over too well..."

"I bet... Well how about this...?" I made a quick sketch of my own my poor drawing skills aside with my added explanation she quickly got the idea.

"That could work! But... I don't think I could make that... Even if I got them both to agree on it..."

"Well... Twi and I aren't making a float maybe we could help you out? I'll have to ask her of course but..."

"You'd do that for us? But what about your own daughter isn't she building a float too?"

"She and her friends yes, I offered but they already politely but firmly refused my help, they want to do it on their own..." I sighed. "They grow up so fast..."

"Don't I know it, well if you and Twilight want to help…? I'm ok with it, and thank you! Dinky come over here!"

She came rushing up sidling up to her mother. "What mama?"

"Rick and his wife Twilight might come to help us with our float, what do you think about that?"

She turned and looked at me suspiciously. "What my mama's name?"

I smiled warmly to her. "Ditzy Doo."

Her scowl immediately disappeared and was replaced with a big smile as she leapt onto my lap putting her forehooves on my chest. "Ok! Come on, follow me! Let me show you!" She grabbed my hand and dragged me off to the float enthusiastically showing me what she had done and what she wanted to do, pretty much the exact opposite of what her sister wanted but that was ok I had a plan... I just wasn't sure if it would work, hopefully Twi would be able to help me with that. Her organizational and planning skills would help a lot.

Dinky pulled me around for awhile I couldn't resist her cuteness and enthusiasm and I was sure to note down what she and Derp... I mean Ditzy wanted to do, maybe I'd get a chance to talk to Sparkler later... After awhile they headed in to make dinner I had politely declined to join them I had to get home to my own family.

Scootaloo was just putting the last plate on the table as I walked in. "Dad's home!" She squealed launching herself at me letting me catch and hug her.

"How did meeting Apple Bloom's cousin go?" Apple Bloom had been talking about little else fort he past week so naturally we heard about it plenty as well.

"After dinner you two come and eat."

I let my Angel down and swooped into the kitchen to put the food on the table for her banding down for a sweet kiss.

Got something to talk to you about later.

Oh?

We all sat down to a delicious but simple dinner, Twi wasn't a fancy cook but that didn't matter to me a bit. She could serve me bread and water and I would eat it with a smile. After dinner we relaxed on the couch together while Scootaloo told us all about their day with Apple Bloom's cousin Babs Seed, they'd show her all around Ponyville and to their clubhouse. She didn't have her cutiemark yet so they were sure she would want to join the Crusaders so they could help her get it!

I was going to warn her to be tactful but after everything she had gone through, all three of them I was sure they'd be careful. Apparently tomorrow they were going to show off their float to her and see if she wanted to ride on it with them in the parade!

We tucked her in and then cleaned up, I told her all about Ditzy, Dinky and Sparkler and their conflicting plans for their float. She listened to my ideas a small smile growing as she thought of ideas of her own soon she was pulling books on float construction and other things... I should have known better then to get her going; it was nearly midnight when we finally decided on a plan of action collapsing into bed together exhausted.

"Night love..."

"Love you, sleep tight..."

We drifted off grand designs and plans of floats in our dreams...

The next morning Scootaloo was up and off like a shot right after breakfast letting us know she'd be home for dinner, we smiled and got ready bringing books, some tools and a few snacks too. Heading to Ditzy's we stopped in a few places picking up items Twi figured we would need today, wire and rope (big seller this time of year), some fabrics and thread as well as paint, wood and nails too. We had quite a load by the time we got there.

Dinky ran up her eyes wide. "Woww... This is gonna be great! Mama! Mama! Sparkler come quick!"

Ditzy poked her head out and gasped ducking back in emerging moments later dragging a reluctant Sparkler with her, as they got closer I could hear their one sided conversation.

"Mooomm... I don't want to... Dinky ruined everything! And he's so weird I..." She glanced over our way and stopped suddenly staring a moment then rushing over to Twilight.

"M... Mrs Sparkle... I... Hi, I'm Sparkler... I used to come to the library all the time remember...?"

"Of course I remember you; I wondered why I hadn't seen you for quite awhile... And please call me Twilight."

"Oh... Thank you T… Twilight. The group of friends I've been hanging with aren't really into... Books..."

"Well that’s alright, but if your still into books you know you can stop by anytime."

"Thanks..." She blushed embarrassed stepping back giving me a good look at her, a teenage mare with a dark and light streaked violet mane and tail and a very light purple coat even lighter then Twi's, she had dark eye makeup on as well as numerous piercings in her ears and several rings on her horn.

Twilight pulled out a few books and we outlined to them what we thought would please both Dinky and Sparkler. Dinky wanted lots of flowers and bright colors while Sparkler of course wanted dark and depressing. We figured the simplest idea was probably the best, the front of the float would be all done up like Dinky wanted while separated by a veil and the back half would be done up as Sparkler wanted. Dinky and her Mom would ride in front and Sparkler in the back that way she wouldn't be the object of too much attention but she could still be seen and show off her float to her friends.

It might have been a simple idea but it would take a lot of work and a few days at least to accomplish, amazingly Dinky and Sparkler both liked the idea sitting close together going through the material we brought like sisters should.

We spent a while tearing down what they had done, pretty easily it only took a little push. We salvaged what we could and got busy first building a sturdy base and two six foot slender towers to hold the separating veil. By the time we finished that it was getting quite late so we headed home promising to return tomorrow.

We walked home side by side unburdened having left all the supplies in Ditzy's care.

"Sparkler seems to have taken a bit of a liking to you."

"She's a sweet filly; I hope she gets over this phase she's going through..."

"I think it might be a little more then that love..."

"What do you mean?"

"I think she might have a bit of a crush on you."

"What?! Me?"

I chuckled and gave her a squeeze. "What’s so strange about that?"

"Well... It's not the same..."

"No it probably isn't, but still be careful not to break her heart..." I teased.

"Rick! Honestly... She's probably just... Intimidated, yes that’s it... What she could see in me I don't..."

I scooped her up carefully kissing her. "Yes, what could she possibly see…? A beautiful, super intelligent, kind, generous, sweet..."

"Ok, ok...!"

"And sexy mare..." I grinned.

"Just because you see all that in me doesn't mean anyone else does... Your all I need, but if that’s really the case... Well, it is nice to be noticed..."

"Hmm... Careful love, I can get jealous too. I'll fight off any stallion or mare to keep you."

"No need for that..." She smiled nuzzling my neck. "But that’s nice to know too..."

We got home and made some dinner, I was looking forward to hearing how my Angels day had gone but she just sat quietly picking at her food. Twilight and I shared a concerned look before I cleared my throat and spoke up.

"How was your day Angel? You look a little down..."

She looked up startled for a moment before looking back down at her plate. "It's nothing..."

"Come on honey, you know we're here for you."

"It's just... Babs... When we were showing off our float to her... She... It fell over and broke."

"You’re all ok though?"

"No one got hurt Dad... I'm not hungry, can I be excused?"

"Of course..."

We both watched her go to her room concerned.

What do you think she's not telling us?

I'm not sure... Something, maybe Babs knocked it down accidently and their worried she might get in trouble, or they were showing off and wrecked it themselves...

Silly fillies, I'll check with them again tomorrow and see if they need some help... I'll keep helping Ditzy her girls and you of course.

I could handle it...

I know love; I just don't want you to push too hard.

Silly, I'll be careful.

I know but I still worry.

Love you.

We cleaned up and got to bed early both of us tired from the days activities.

The next morning I offered to help the girls again to Scootaloo before she left but she brushed it off saying they weren't interested in making a float anymore and rushed off before I could ask her what was wrong. I'd find out eventually I guess...

We got some more work done on Dinky and Sparklers float, I had to head into town several times for the occasional item we either ran out of or one of us discovered me needed. Every time I caught glimpses here and there of Angel and her friends seemingly playing a large scale game of hide and seek around town with Apple Bloom's cousin Babs and two of the colts from the same class following at her hooves, Snips and Snails I think was their names...

Later in the day I was making what I hoped was my last trip into town when I spotted my little Angel on her own looking miserable heading for home. I was worried and followed her stopping outside the door to her room listening to her sobs; it broke my heart for her to be sad. I opened her door quietly and walked over kneeling down to rub her back.

"What’s wrong Angel? How can I fix things?"

Her response wasn't exactly what I expected she looked up at me angrily tears falling from her eyes. "You can't fix everything! You’re not my real Dad!"

That hit me hard; of course I knew I wasn't but... In my heart I really wished I was, I felt I was... I closed my eyes leaning back with a sigh, I wasn't mad at her. Something was upsetting her and she lashed out anyone would... I took a deep breath. "Scootaloo..." I stopped as I felt her clutch my arm, I opened my eyes to find her staring up at me with tear filled eyes.

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry... Please, please... I didn't mean it! Don't send me away, don't make me leave... I'll never..."

I grabbed her and hugged her tightly to my chest before leaning back and wiping her tears away. "Scootaloo... Angel, my Angel... I would never send you away, I love you. Twilight loves you, when Starswirl is born he..."

"Or she..." She whispered with a small smile.

"Or she is going to love his or her big sister... I know I'm not your real Dad, he wasn't much of a father and maybe I try too hard to make up for it... I want to protect you, keep you safe with me your whole life but I can't... You'll be gone someday, so now while I can I try... I want to..." I couldn't help but leak some tears of my own, she leaned against me letting me hold her close and we comforted one another like that for a few minutes.

"I'm really, really sorry. I was mad about... Something else, I shouldn't have said that... You’re the only Dad I've ever really known..."

I squeezed her again kissing her forehead. "Thank you Angel, I'm proud to be your Dad... If something is bothering you... Tiara and Silver aren't picking on you again are they...?"

"No their both hiding at their homes... I mean, it has nothing to do with them... I..." She looked up at me with her big purple eyes unsure.

"You know it doesn't matter to me, no matter what it is I'll do what I can..."

"I know Dad. It's just..." She seemed to make up her mind favouring me with a little smile. "We can handle it, we'll be ok really. Dad...?"

"What is it Angel?"

"I love you too."

I held her tight trying to make all the bad feelings, bad things and problems, everything bad that every happened to her go away. "If things get any worse you'll come to me though ok?"

"Promise..."

"Ok then, want to come and see the float Mom and I are helping to build?"

"Sure!"

So we both headed to Ditzy's, Scootaloo riding happily on my shoulders she wouldn't be able to do that much longer already she was nearly too big but I still loved to have her there. She kept looking around as we walked though I didn't see anything so I didn't make a big deal about it.

We spent the last part of the day working on the float with Scootaloo helping, Ditzy insisted we all stay for supper and despite the occasional mishap in the kitchen she and Sparkler served up a wonderful dinner.

The festival was only one more day away so tomorrow we would put the finishing touches on the float and that wouldn't take long. Twilight and I had discussed at length what could be bothering Scootaloo but we both didn't want to push her either, we kept our eyes and ears open but kids can be surprisingly good at keeping things secret they don't want you to know...

About lunchtime the next day Ditzy's float finished and looking great if I said so myself I walked out to the Crusaders clubhouse with a little lunch for Scootaloo and a few snacks for the girls but I found the walkway knocked down and all the curtains drawn. Odd I thought as I knocked on the side of the staircase.

The door opened and a voice came out. "I thought I told you... Oh! Who are you?"

Out trotted a young school filly she looked to be the same age as the girls she had a dark pink mane with lighter steaks and a dark orange coat as well as a pair of bright green eyes, she was a bit bigger and more solidly built then my Angel with a glance I could see she had no cutie mark so I surmised this must be Babs.

"Who is it Boss... Rick!" Snips and Snails were right at her heels and recognised me right away.

"What’s a Rick?"

I chuckled lightly. "Nothing for you to worry about Babs, Snips, Snails good to see you. I was just looking for Scootaloo, is she around?"

Snips leaned over to Babs and whispered. "That’s her dad..."

"Oh! Yes... But not right now... We're, playing... Castle! This is the castle and Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle and my cousin are the invaders. Their just out making plans and uh... Filling water balloons... After they attack we'll switch places, yeah... Sounds like fun right?"

"Hmm... Yes it sure does, well I was just bringing Scootaloo a little lunch and some snacks I'm sure they wouldn't mind you having some too. You'll give it to her when you see her?"

"Of course!"

I passed up the bundle and headed back towards town a little suspicious but it did sound like fun, hopefully they were all getting along...

Back in town I narrowly avoided getting barrelled over by Angel, Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle, they had her wagon all loaded up and we racing towards Sweet Apple Acres.

"Dad!"

"Hi Rick!" Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom echoed.

"Hey girls, off to make some siege weapons?"

Three blank stares.

"To assault the clubhouse? I was just there dropping off Scootaloo's lunch and Babs said you were playing castle..."

"My lunch!? Ooh she’s gonna get it... I mean, right! We're going to build something that will guarantee our victory!"

"That’s right!"

"Darn tootin!"

"I see... Well make sure not to play too rough..."

"We won't, um Dad? Can I sleep over at Sweetie Belles tonight? We changed our minds about the float and we're gonna work on it after we... Play castle, then we were going to go to Sweetie Belles."

"Well if it’s ok with your parents Sweetie Belle?"

"Y... Yes, no problem!"

"Well sure then, have a good time and I look forward to seeing your float tomorrow. You’re sure you don't need any help?"

"We're sure Dad thanks."

"Ok then." I knelt down to give her a quick hug and a kiss before she rushed off pulling her friends. Something was definitely up with those three but I couldn't quite put my finger on it... Well she promised to come to me if things got worse so I'd have to trust her...

I got home and spent the rest of the day with Twilight doing a little reading and some magic practice without Trixie coming around anymore she needed someone to practice with and I was more then happy to help out. We had a simple supper and sat together on the couch cuddling.

"I've never really noticed how quiet it is without Scootaloo here... I've always though of libraries as quiet places but... It just doesn't seem right here without her."

"I know what you mean love, well Babs is going back soon and I think that must be part of what’s bothering Angel. She seemed like a take charge kind of filly and Angel and her friends have always been more like a Triumvirate... What?"

She was looking up at me with a smile. "You know what it does to me when you get all insightful."

"Oh really...?" I scooped her up kissing her passionately and carrying her to bed where we made enough noise to make up for the silence Scootaloo left.

Sleep came easily entangled together warm and secure.

We both got up early getting ready for the parade finding ourselves a comfortable spot and were soon joined by Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash. Pinkie Pie had a float in the parade as well so we couldn't wait to see that as well as the girls. We chatted as we waited discovering some... Interesting information.

"It was right nice of ya to have Apple Bloom over last night Twi an Rick she hasn't bin too keen on sharin her room with her cousin..."

"No, no Applejack. Sweetie Belle was staying with you last night? Wasn't she?" Rarity frowned thinking.

"And Scootaloo said they were staying at your parents place Rarity..." Twilight frowned as well.

"What could those fillies be up ta?"

"Well, we'll just have to find out after the parade..." Everyone nodded in agreement as the parade started float after float passing everyone had done a great job and put a lot of work into their creations. The Cake's had naturally a huge cake they rode on their twins scampering around on one of the layers, Bon Bon and Lyra had a candy themed float they both rode on waving, Lyra waved madly when she saw me and I waved back until I heard a disgruntled snort beside me and put my arm over her side instead. Ditzy, Dinky and Sparklers float came up and we cheered for them waving, Ditzy and Dinky riding up front lots of flowers and pretty colors and then as it passed we could see Sparkler and a couple of her friends riding on the back ignoring everyone although when she caught sight of Twilight she did wave a little. The back was done in up in black, deep grey and purple but Twilight did manage to sneak in some parts that shone and sparkled when the light hit them just right.

Next came a large golden apple right along the lines of what I might think Applejack would be showing off, Babs was driving and waving but I couldn't see any of the girls with her... She passed by and the girls came galloping up shortly after.

"I thought you would be riding with her?" I asked.

"Nah, we decided she deserved to ride alone."

"Ya we wanted her to be the center of attention..." Apple Bloom grinned all three of them giggling.

"So that’s what ya'll were doing instead of being where ya were supposed to be!"

"Oops..."

"Still its mighty nice of ya to let her ride it especially after all the trouble she’s been have'n in Manehattan."

"What kind of trouble?" Apple Bloom asked.

"Well I didn't want ta say anything so ya'll wouldn't overreact but it seems there’s been some bullies at her school that bin giving her a hard time cuz of her not having her mark yet..."

"What?!" All three of them squeaked.

"That’s why she came out ta visit to get away from all that, I'm so proud of you three for bein so sweet."

"That’s why she was so uncomfortable about us asking about it..."

"An why Snips an Snails came along she sided with them when they were teasin us..."

"And now we're the ones being mean to her! After we made her be mean in the first place!"

"What are we going to do?!"

"What exactly did you do...?" I asked trying to follow their conversation.

"Sorry Dad... We gotta go fix this!"

The three of them ran off jumping into Pinkie Pies lettuce float, (though why a pony like Pinkie Pie chose lettuce is beyond me.)

"I better go keep an eye on them..."

Twilight started to struggle to her hooves but I gestured her back down gently. "Its ok love..."

"This is starting to get a bit inconvenient..." She grumped.

I kissed her softly with a smile. "I know love but you’re so beautiful..." And I took off after the girls turning a corner just in time to witness the apple float bump them sending them off the road Pinkies float falling apart and the girls racing off again with me in pursuit, I had almost caught up to them when they reached a sharp turn but the apple kept going straight! I saw the girls dive in pushing Babs out the other side just as the float hit the guardrail breaking through; I dove and grabbed the rear bumper pulling with all my might to no avail as it pulled me over the ledge too! Thankfully it wasn't a cliff but a slope that led down to the river still the float began picking up speed and I could hear the girls screams from inside as I still tried to slow it without getting pulled straight off my feet.

I was about to try to teleport inside and grab the girls and teleport out (not easy or safe on a moving object.) When a familiar purple radiance surrounded the float and me and it slowed enough so the impact a moment later at the bottom of the slope only broke the wheels off and toppled the apple into the mud me along with it but gently enough that the girls all popped out and fell into the mud with me thankfully unharmed.

I gathered up all three of them hugging them all. "You three are in so much trouble..."

"Sorry..."

I sighed and struggled out of the mud with them back to the top of the hill where Twilight, Applejack, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Dash and Fluttershy were waiting with buckets of soapy water, Babs was there too standing aside looking confused she spoke up as we tried to wash off the mud.

"After I'd been so mean to ya... you saved me!"

"Sort of..." Scootaloo blushed.

"What do ya mean?"

"We're the ones who booby trapped the float..." Apple Bloom admitted.

"We were just trying to get back at you for being a bully to us but..." Sweetie Belle frowned.

"But then Applejack told us about how you were being bullied back in Manehattan..." Scootaloo continued.

"But then it was too late! Ah'm awful sorry cuz..."

"Us too..."

"I'm the one who’s sorry... I shouldn't have acted like those other fillies and colts who were mean to me and I dragged your other two friends along with me too..."

"Y'know, this all could've been avoided if y'all just came to me, or Rick any of yer parents in the beginnin..."

"That’s what I said!" Sweetie Belle squeaked.

"So can we start over? Seeing how you three stuck together through all this I know I want to be a Crusader like you..."

"You bet cuz..."

"Okay!"

"Yeah we all made some dumb mistakes..."

I finished rinsing her off and pulled her out of the small tub. "You did, but at least you fixed them Angel... And you’re grounded for a week..."

"Aww...!"

"But... It can wait until after Babs leaves..."

"Same goes for you youngin, but like Rick said..."

"And you young lady..."

"Okay..." The three of them echoed hanging their heads.

"Alright off you go, I've got to get cleaned up and clean up this mess."

"Thanks Dad!"

"Thanks Rick!"

They raced off as I scraped off the worst of the mud smiling to Twilight. "Thanks love that could have been a lot worse."

"Well we're a team remember?" She sat down leaning against me heedless of the mud as she levitated pieces out of the river.

"We sure are..."

I helped her with some of the larger pieces and our friends helped out too naturally when we got that cleaned up we helped Pinkie clean up her float though it seemed most of it had gotten eaten while we were gone.

"You made the whole float out of actual lettuce?!"

"Well ya silly, what else was I going to make it out of? Paper mache and wood?"

"But... Never mind..."

Scootaloo and the girls inducted Babs into the group and she told us planned to start another chapter of it in Manehattan not only as a group for ponies who didn't have their cutie marks but as friends who would stick up and stand together against bullying and anything else. Not bad for a bunch of school fillies...

"But you’re still grounded."

"Awww!"

"It's only a week Angel you'll survive."

"I guess..."

Sometimes the smallest problems can have big repercussions but hopefully we can and we will weather them all...

Interlude: The Moon can't decide...

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Blankets...? Booties for the foal’s hooves...? Bibs...? Toys...? Princess Luna raced through Canterlot stopping at store after store, ponies stared after her still wary of her and certainly not used to seeing her during the day. Normally she would be a bit self conscious about it but she was on a mission! Through the dreamscape she had learned Twilight's friends had thrown her a baby shower and for her Godchild! She understood why they might not invite her of course but still... The idea still hit her hard, after everything she had done to Twilight and Rick they still wanted… Asked! Her to be their foals godmother, her!

She smiled to herself as she looked over a collection of gold and platinum baby blocks, no too ostentatious... The sales ponies in each store were very helpful eagerly looking for a sale as they directed her from overpriced item to gold plated knick knack each more suited to life in a palace over elaborate and decorative hardly suited as a foal’s plaything at all...

She stepped back with an irritated grunt her horn glowing as she teleported away leaving several very confused sales ponies behind... The house she appeared before was quite plain but well built written on the mailbox out front was 'The Sparkle's', the house her sister had gifted them. "Why didn't I think of that...?" She sighed opening then closing the gate behind her as she looked around the property.

More trees...? Flowers...? Shrubbery’s...? Hardly a gift for a foal but for the foal’s home... She teleported herself inside quite sure they wouldn't mind the intrusion, the couch she had given them as a housewarming present sat alone, there were a few other pieces of furniture and bookshelves all empty a few kitchen items but largely the house was bare... I could furnish this entire place! Fill the bookshelves! They would be so surprised when next they came! She thought to herself but quickly backtracked, that would be too much... It's not a competition after all.

She wandered around a bit more ending up in their bedroom and huge four poster bed; she looked around the room peeking into the tiny empty adjoining room sunlight streaming through the window. She smiled laughing lightly. "You are a crafty one sister..." Giving them a house with a nursery before they even knew of their pregnancy...

She felt his presence approach and pulled her head out of the room turning around as he manifested before her bowing deeply.

"Princess Luna! It's so good to see you, I must apologise for not being here to greet you when you arrived."

She gave him a stern look with a gentle shake of her head and then a smile. "Alizarin..."

"Oh... Ah, apologies again... Luna. What brings you here?"

"Twilight Sparkles friends have thrown her a baby shower and as they have asked me to be a godmother to their foal I felt I should get them something as well! But it's so hard to decide!" She sat down with another sigh. "I'm just not that good at this kind of thing..."

"Prin... I mean, Luna. Perhaps you are looking at this the wrong way?"

"What do you mean?"

"As I understand you are responsible for their 'compatibility' enabling them to have a foal in the first place correct?"

"Well yes..."

"And they were beyond thrilled as I understand I must concur then that any gift you could ever give them would only pale in comparison. Not to say they wouldn't appreciate anything you gave them, quite the opposite. What I am saying is you need not worry yourself so over it. They will love whatever you give them and with you as the foals Godmother watching over him or her from afar and within the Dream I know he or she will love you too..."

She sat there staring at him shocked and surprised. "I... I never thought of it like that... Thank you Alizarin!"

"No need for thanks, truly it is only through my interactions with you and Princess Celestia that I am able to come to these conclusions."

"Is that your way of saying your only telling me what I already knew?"

He smiled. "Something of that nature, perhaps with a small bit of my own insight mixed in..."

She giggled smiling at the translucent pony before her. "Thank you Alizarin, for always being there for me... For us, I'm so sorry we forgot about you for so long..."

"Nonsense, you had your own... Problems. All things considered I couldn't be more pleased at how things have turned out, the loss of your parents notwithstanding... I still have the archives to look after though truly they need little tending, you and Princess Celestia to converse with, even friends of my own in Twilight and Rick Sparkle! And stewardship over their beautiful home and my time in town with the townsfolk, I believe they are beginning to get used to my occasional assistance. There is nothing more I could ask for."

"I am glad to hear it." She sighed stretching with a small yawn. "But I still don't know what to get them..."

"I can only speculate but I imagine a new parent wishes for nothing more then the safety and well being of their new child."

"You’re right of course..." Her eyes opened wide as she smiled. "You’re absolutely right! You’re a genius Alizarin!"

"Well I don't know about that... What exactly are you referring too?"

"Safety... With you here they would have little to fear but..." Her horn lit up channelling power through her and the entire house.

"What are you doing?" He asked looking around with interest.

"Mmm... Rounding off corners, softening edges for when you’re not around, and..."

He stepped back as she channelled into the floor an outline of her cutie mark appearing and expanding encompassing the whole of the house and property fading as the spell was completed as she sank down exhausted.

"A ward... And quite a powerful one I see, very well done Luna this shall keep their foal and whole family as well as the property and house well protected for many years to come. I'm sure they will..." He looked over at her but she was asleep curled up on the floor, he smiled to himself drawing the curtains and transferring the blanket from the bed onto her. "Sleep well my Princess, if only your parents could see the mare's you and your sister have become... Twilight and Rick made an excellent choice of Godmother..."

I felt a sudden chill run up my back for a moment, I shook it off with a grin someone must be talking about me somewhere I chuckled. It was a beautiful day not a cloud in the sky or a trouble on my mind as I did a bit of browsing at the open market looking for a few odds and ends to supplement tonight’s dinner. A breathless Lyra came galloping up skidding to a stop in front of me gasping for air. I gave her a moment to catch her breath and she looked up at me worried.

"I... Came as quick as I..."

"Take your time Lyra, no rush..."

"Yes there is! I just saw Trixie get off the Train...!"

Crap...

Chapter 8 (Slave to a mare)

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Dammit Trixie! Too soon, I rushed towards the train station looking all over for her the most direct path from the station to Fluttershy’s cottage was my best option. Thankfully Lyra had moved fast and I located her only a few blocks away from the station. I hurried to catch up to her calling out.

"Trixie!"

She spun to stare at me with sad eyes. "I... I just need to see her... Explain..."

"It's too soon Trixie... She's not ready to see you, don't break her heart again."

"I have to see her!"

I gently steered her down a nearby alley before we drew too much attention. "I can understand that, really I can. But she's still devastated just now slowly, so slowly coming out of her depression..."

"I don't... I can't... I've got to tell her!"

"That you love her? I'm sure she knows, even with... And I'm sure she still loves you too but... Betrayal can't be so easily forgotten..."

"So she told you..."

"I went to comfort her, see what was bothering her when she got back from... Well she needed someone to confide in..."

"She told you everything?"

"I don't know about everything but certainly enough... Trixie... You messed up badly... Don't make it worse."

"I need to tell her it meant nothing! It was... I was just..."

"But you still did it..."

"I... I never thought she'd... I just didn't think... I've got to see her!"

She tried to push past me but despite her magical skill she wasn't a very big mare and I held her back easily.

"Trixie..."

"Let... Me... Go...!"

"I know it's hard Trixie, love and logic don't walk hand in hand often but I know you don't want to hurt her anymore..."

"I... I can make you let me go!"

"I'm sure you could, your magical skill is still much greater then mine. But your not looking for trouble, there’s no need to get angry. You could have passed right by town teleporting right to Fluttershy’s cottage from the train... You wanted to be stopped; someone to talk some sense into you didn't you?"

She sucked in a big lungful of air still trying to look intimidating before her facade cracked and she released it collapsing letting me hold her.

"I didn't mean for this to happen... I... I just got so caught up in... Everything! That’s no excuse I know... And now I've lost the best thing I've ever had haven't I...?"

I sighed stroking her mane comfortingly. "I don't know... Maybe she can forgive you someday, maybe not. I don't know her heart."

"What if it happened to you?"

"I... I don't know. If Twi cheated on me? I'd be devastated but I love her, need her so much I'd probably take her back time and again... If I was the one who cheated...? I don't know if she could forgive me, I know I wouldn't be able to forgive myself..."

"What can I do?"

"I'm not sure... How about a letter? No excuses just tell her... everything, everything your feeling, everything you feel for her. Let it all out, I can't say that would fix everything but it would make you feel better I think and I think it would help her too..."

"Okay... Thank you Rick, for talking to me and... Oh no..."

Her eyes had gone wide staring at something behind me, Fluttershy maybe? I turned around but didn't see her, nothing out of the ordinary at all just ponies going about their business...

"What is it Trixie?"

"No, no, no... She can't be here... This is bad..."

She got up leading me back into town following something until we reached town hall and a small but ever growing crowd of ponies around a Unicorn mare standing on the steps. She had a light yellow and dark red mane and tail and a light orange coat she was wearing a necklace dark grey and back with what looked to be a ruby in the middle but I couldn't get a very good look at it, she sneered out over those gathered.

"Where is the one called Twilight Sparkle?!" She demanded her voice amplified by magic.

"We've got to get Twilight out of here...!"

"What’s going on Trixie?"

"Well... I really never thought this would happen believe me!" She sighed. "When I ran away from here after my first defeat... Well humiliation at my own hooves really I sought out others who were like minded, bitter and angry at others, at the society that we felt had tossed us aside... I did find some but ponies like that... Like I was, well those kinds of personalities can't co-exist. Eventually it was just me and my student, I knew some tricks and spells and so did she. She told me how she'd been cast aside by her former teacher... I didn't find out until later her teacher had been Princess Celestia! We travelled together for some time but her anger and bitterness ran even deeper then mine and eventually when she had learned all she could from me she too tossed me aside and left... I... I'm sorry, I may have filled her head with tales of Princess Celestia’s new student and how successful she was..."

If you wanted revenge against a being as powerful as Princess Celestia... You'd have to strike at those she loved the most... "Dammit Trixie... Your right we need to keep her away... But still I can't imagine she would be a match for Twi..."

"Don't be too sure; in a magic duel it only takes a small slip..."

"Who's making all this noise?! What are you doing to those ponies? Put them down at once!"

Damn... Trixie and I pushed our way through the crowd to where they were parting for Twi.

"Rick! Trixie?! What’s going on?"

The yellow and red maned pony had been amusing herself levitating and spinning several ponies around but at Twilights call she let them drop stepping forward.

"So the mighty Twilight Sparkle... Princess Celestia’s..." She practically spat out Celestias name. "...Prized student, the so called element of magic. Hah!"

She stopped a moment noticing Trixie and I, her teal eyes focusing on me a moment unsure of what I was before moving on apparently deciding I wasn't worth her time and focused on Trixie.

"Well, well... If it isn't the 'Great and powerful' Trixie." She sneered. "Slumming with your mortal enemy?"

"Sunset... It's been awhile, what are you doing here?"

"Isn't it obvious? I'm going to do what you couldn't, defeat Twilight Sparkle and claim my place as the most powerful Unicorn that ever lived!"

"What happened to you? You were mad about the Princess but…”

"Don't you dare mention her name! Never you mind former teacher, you’re too weak to understand."

"You might be surprised student; I've learned a few things..."

"Oh really? Perhaps we should test your new skills...?"

"What’s going on here? Trixie, who is this?"

The two of them had gotten so focused on each other they had apparently forgotten about Twilight.

"T... Twilight, this is Sunset Shimmer a former student of mine... And of Princess Celestia... Sorry."

"What?!"

She grimaced at Celestias name but focused on Twilight. "Yes that’s right Twilight Sparkle; I was her prized student before you. She taught me a lot but she felt I was too impatient, too reckless with my magic! She cast me out! Made me leave all I ever knew! But now I'm back and I'll prove to her and everyone that I'm the strongest! I challenge you Twilight Sparkle to a magic duel!"

"No."

The look on Sunsets face was priceless. "What?! I've challenged you, you have to!"

"Of course I don't, why waste my time in a pointless contest? I don't care if you think you’re the strongest and I can assure you the Princess doesn't. Do you think yourself at her level? Don't be foolish."

Sunset’s horn flashed angrily throwing out a wave of energy tossing aside any pony unlucky enough to be standing too close.

"You will fight! Or I will tear this pathetic little town down around your hooves!" She accented her fury with a stomp of her forehoof and another blast of energy shaking town hall shattering windows and cracking the walls.

"Stop! This is crazy... Fine, fine I'll duel with you. Just don't hurt anyone."

Twi!

I can't let her destroy the town, or hurt anyone!

I know... Please be careful...

Love you.

"Good, the rules are simple. The winner stays and the loser leaves forever! She can go cry to Celestia, that would be you by the way." Sunset laughed.

By this time there were plenty of ponies gathered around curious and concerned including our friends.

"There’s no way Twilight would agree to anything so unreasonable!" Rarity burst out angrily the others nodding in agreement.

"Oh really...?" Sunset grinned her horn lighting up again.

"Stop it! All of you, I said I would do this. But why would you even want Ponyville? You've never even been here before have you?"

"That doesn't matter, your happy here so I'll take it from you."

"We'll see..."

I could tell by Twi's determined look she wasn't going to back down and I didn't blame her, I don't know what made Sunset so confident but I know how strong my wife is and I had no qualms about helping her through our connection I would and fully intended to if needed.

Everyone backed off forming a large circle, Ponyville didn't have a police or guard force and even if we had this wasn't a situation they would be able to deal with. They started off simply feats of conjuring, levitation, spell and counterspell. Twi easily countered everything she threw at her but Sunsets little smile made me think that she was... Or though she was toying with her.

"I suppose that’s enough of a warm up, unless you want to quit now Twilight Sparkle...?"

"You don't scare me."

"We'll see about that." She laughed suddenly hurling a globe of fire at Twilight easily the size of a human head, better then I could manage on my best day. Thankfully Twi was ready with an equal sized globe of water extinguishing it.

Thought I wasn't paying attention while you were practicing it didn't you?

I'm glad you were! Don't enjoy yourself too much love.

I know it’s an experience I haven’t had before move and countermove, like chess but much more…

With far greater stakes I thought to myself as again they clashed spell and counter again and again Sunset usually the aggressor but my love got a few attacks in. Far more dangerous and stressful, I was on edge ready to jump in if I had to, my magic might not be anywhere near their level but if I could keep her from getting hurt... The effect of all this magic and stress on Starswirl hadn't escaped my mind either... I could only hope he or she was well protected within the womb.

Finally they stepped back from one another both breathing heavily a glimmer of respect in Sunsets eyes but Twi was sweating, I poured all the energy I could through our connection, I didn't think Sunset could detect it and really didn't care if she could. She didn't so much as twitch when I did so though I got a grateful look from Twi.

She's strong, how did she get so much power? I thought Trixie said they were near the same strength when they first met?

I don't know, are you ok?

I am, thanks to you. I think she's running out of tricks...

"Your better then I thought Sparkle, time to take it up another level."

"Another...?"

Sunset’s horn glowed pulling a pony out of the crowd, Caramel.

"Hey!"

"Relax Sparkle; this is just for a demonstration. No harm will come to him..." She slyly grinned her horn glowed enveloping Caramel in its radiance, as it faded we all gasped in shock at the wide eyed colt that stood in his place! His coloring was the same but without a cutiemark, again her magic surrounded him and as it faded we beheld an old stallion greying with trembling legs and cataract clouded eyes. Once more and he was returned to the stallion he was, he looked around wild-eyed and bolted through the crowd and away.

"Ageing and age regression spells... That’s... That’s not possible; those are from the highest levels of Unicorn magic!"

Sunset studied her hoof nonchalantly with a smile. "Quite... What’s the matter Sparkle? Realizing your in over your head?"

She swallowed and stepped forward. "I... I need a volunteer."

Are you sure about this?

I have to try!

"Ah'll be yer volunteer Twi." Applejack stepped forward her confidence in her friend reflected in her face.

"Thank you Applejack, here goes..."

I channelled what little I had left into her as her horn began to glow levitating Applejack off the ground surrounding her in its radiance as she nervously looked from herself to Twilight. It fully enveloped her and I could feel Twi straining, trying to form the spell into what she wanted. She was strong but this...

The radiance faded suddenly and Applejack collapsed to the ground followed by Twi.

"I... I couldn't... How...?"

"You can spend all the time you like pondering that, the rest of your days if you like... Away from my town!"

"Now hold on! You can't expect her to honour that deal! You stacked the deck!" Dash yelled interposing herself between Sunset and Twilight quickly followed by the rest of our friends as I helped Twi up.

"Oh? Are you implying it would be cruel to send her off on her own? Hmm..." She paused momentarily with a thoughtful look then grinned maliciously. "Good riddance former master and Twilight Sparkle!"

"We're not going anywhere!" Trixie defiantly proclaimed.

"Hah, you’re already gone." Sunset sneered stomping her forehoof on the ground as her horn lit up a field expanding out from her passing harmlessly through each of us until it reached Twilight and Trixie pushing them away with incredible speed.

Rick!

I didn't even have time to reply as she was swept away, I was momentarily torn between an all out attack on Sunset futile as it might be and running after Twilight. I chose the latter rushing to the edge of town Dash and Fluttershy ahead of me Applejack, Rarity and Pinkie keeping pace. Covering the entire town was a dome of see through force and on the other side Twilight and Trixie, they both looked unhurt thankfully.

I breathed a sigh of relief sinking down to my knees in front of her. "You’re ok..." She craned her head to the side reaching out to tap on the shield with her hoof but no sound came through.

I had no strength to teleport but I saw her and Trixies forms waver a second before returning to normal.

Twi?

Rick!

Thank goodness you’re ok!

We caught each other before we hit the ground.

Then I owe Trixie for that, what are we going to do?

I don't know... We can't teleport through...

The Princess's...

No. We can't run to them every time we have a problem...

But...

Princess Celestia has put her faith in me so many times... I need to fix this, to try...

We need to...

She smiled lightening my heart. We... All of us, Trixie and I will go to Zecora, she’s been places and knows things even the Princess's don't. I hope she can give us some advice...

I hope she can help; we'll try to keep things from getting too out of hand here...

Scootaloo! If she learns she’s our daughter she might...

I'll make sure she's safe... Magnum and Pearl I know they'll help.

Good... Tell her I love her, I love you. I don't want to be separated like this...

Same here.

I put my hand on one side of the shield and she her hoof on the other, we stayed that way a moment gazing at one another Trixie standing back from Twi trying not to stare at Fluttershy behind me. Finally we leaned in kissing either side of the shield.

I love you., I love you.

She and Trixie turned and began skirting around the shield towards the Everfree forest as I explained to everyone and we discussed what we could do. All in agreement everyone headed back to town Dash, Applejack, Rarity and Pinkie racing ahead to see what was happening and to advise townsfolk to avoid Sunset or if they couldn't to give her what she wanted. (If they could.)

Fluttershy walked alongside me quietly looking up at me occasionally.

"Are you ok Shy?"

"Why...? What was Trixie doing...?

"She came to see you of course..."

"But... Why...?"

"Because she still loves you, she made a mistake but she still wants you back."

"Oh..."

"You don't have to do anything, I... Talked to her and she agreed not to push you. She's going to write you a letter and maybe you can correspond like that a bit before deciding anything..."

"I guess..."

I sighed stopping to kneel down and hug her tightly. "I'm sorry Shy, she saved Twi so I have to forgive her, not that I wouldn't have given her a chance anyhow but you don't have to. If you don't want to see her that’s ok I'll do my best to keep her away... Well, once we resolve this problem..."

"Thanks... I... I want to forgive her I really do, but what if it happens again? What if it happened before? I don't know what to do..." She hugged me back then drew herself up taking a deep breath. "But for now we have other problems, thank you."

"Anytime Fluttershy."

Fluttershy went to make sure any animals caught in the dome were ok and she wanted to see if she could get back to her cottage even as well. Applejack wouldn't be able to get home unfortunately the same with other farmers in town to sell their produce; this dome was going to cause a lot of problems...

When I got back to town things were quiet most ponies locked in their homes wary of this new threat. Fortunately and unfortunately Rarity had found the girls I had hoped they were at the clubhouse and out of this mess altogether...

"I don't wanna hide Dad! I can fight!"

I hugged her tight with a smile. "I know you can Angel and I'm so proud of you. But we'll handle it your Mom and I just want you safe ok?"

She sighed snuggling against me a moment. "Ok... But what about you?"

"I don't know... But we'll find some way out of this, trust us."

"Ok!"

She Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom rushed off to Rarity’s parents house while I looked around town to try to find out what this Sunset Shimmer was up to, I tried to reassure any ponies I met advising them to simply avoid her or come to any of us if they needed help, and above all to not endanger themselves or their loved ones.

She was nowhere to be found I thought perhaps she might be at the Mayors office lording over her and her staff, I'd look there next but first I was still dead tired and weak from giving Twi all I had so I decided to head home and get a little to eat and rest a bit before searching more. I entered and moved towards the kitchen only to feel myself pulled off the floor and slammed none too gently into one of the bookshelves. My vision swum and before it cleared I found myself pinned against the bookshelf Sunset Shimmer in front of me smirking.

"This was Twilight Sparkles home, now its mine." She dropped me down turning her back to look around. "First you'll get rid of all these tacky books and then I'll see what I feel like doing to this place..."

"What...? I'm not going to..."

Again her telekinetic field grabbed me pulling me over to her forcing me to my knees. She smiled patting me on the side of the face with her forehoof. "You belonged to Twilight Sparkle as well, therefore you too are mine." Her telekinesis pulled the ring off my finger and she studied it a moment frowning as she read the inscription before dropping it over her own horn as I struggled pointlessly. "Perhaps if you’re good you'll get it back..." She pulled me to my feet looking me up and down as she released me. "I don't think I'll be using you for the same purposes as she did... But we'll see, for now get to work."

My anger was boiling over I very nearly leapt at her to strangle her with my bare hands but I restrained myself for a few reasons, for one I was still weak and she could likely throw me off with ease and secondly I could detect a faint magical aura perhaps even several it was likely she was warded maybe extensively and I had no idea what those might do. I had never felt so helpless in my life... Well, ironically perhaps once before when I was young and at my uncles farm and they put me on a horse for the first time. I didn't know how to steer her, make her understand what I wanted to do and she didn't understand either and went where she wanted to go after a few minutes I fell off landing in the mud. It was that kind of helplessness, I didn't know what to do my love and unborn child taken from me for how long I didn't know, forced to keep my daughter separate from me and a slave to a megalomaniacal mare... Wait... Maybe that wasn't such a bad thing... If she kept me close, maybe trusted me somewhat mayhap I could keep her from harming anyone... Or at the very least subtly steer her, clearly she had an ego and I was sure she'd respond well to flattery.

"Very well... How can I serve you...? Mistress Sunset." I added hoping I wasn't laying it on too thick.

She smiled widely clearly pleased. "I like that; you shall address me as such from now on. First some lunch, I'm hungry dominating your wife was slightly harder then I anticipated."

"How did you...?"

"Oh please, ponies talk. Frightened ponies talk a lot."

"Did they say anything else...?"

"Such as? Just that you and Twilight lived here and were married, quite amusing really."

Whew, at least whoever she talked to managed to keep from spilling everything. "Very well... Mistress Sunset."

"Good! Glad we understand one another."

So I made lunch for the two of us studying her across the table, she certainly didn't look evil she was an attractive pony but something about her mannerisms seemed... Off, of course I didn't know her personally so I couldn't judge her behaviour but from the ponies I knew even the more... Difficult ones it didn't seem right.

Afterwards under her 'supervision' I gathered up our hundreds and hundreds of books ferrying them downstairs, as big a pain in ass it was I was grateful at least that she didn't want me to burn them or anything crazy like that. The task made doubly difficult by they fact I had to carry them all, I didn't want to reveal my magic any element of surprise I had I might need. As annoying and back breaking it was as long as she was here 'supervising' me she wasn't out causing trouble and it gave time for Twilight to figure out... Something!

I brought the last load of books down then dragged myself back up collapsing into a chair as Sunset watched me from where she had been comfortably laying on the couch with a little smile. "Very good, now run my bath."

I glowered at her a moment then got up and ran a bath, I figured with a name like Sunset she would like it hot, she came in and put her forehoof in it.

"Too hot."

I ran a bit of cold to even it out.

"Not hot enough."

Back and forth until the tub was almost full and my patience was very thin.

"Good enough I suppose..." She sighed climbing in. "Pour some shampoo and get to work."

I grit my teeth and did as she asked lathering and rinsing her long mane then her neck, she still had her necklace on which was a bit odd I tried to wash under it but she glared at me suddenly.

"Leave it be." She growled.

"Sorry I was just..."

She turned her attention away from me and I got back to work washing her body steering clear of certain areas naturally then washing each leg and hoof finishing with her tail. She climbed out regally waiting for me to dry her then pressing a brush into my hand.

"One thousand strokes for my mane and tail."

It wasn't the first time I'd brushed a mane or tail, for Twilight and I it often led to... Amorous activities and thanks to Twilights shampoo this mare was smelling a lot like her, still not the same and I still had no feelings for her (other then anger). I just missed my wife, not even a day and I'm falling apart without her, I just emptied my mind as I brushed thinking of Twi.

It was quite late with all the book moving and brushing I made a simple dinner for the two of us then showed her to Twilight and I's bed. She laid back in it stretching out.

"Not too bad... It will do for now, be off with you until morning slave."

I jerked my head in what I hoped passed for a bow heading downstairs to the couch. Despite the situation and how annoyed and angry I was, exhaustion had a hold of me and it took only minutes to pass out...

I jerked awake suddenly I had heard something... But now all was quiet, looking at the clock I could see it was only one in the morning. I got up retrieving my blade from the closet and making my way stealthily up the stairs standing over Sunsets sleeping form, her wards were still in place but the magic’s bound into the blade might be strong enough to pierce them... What might happen to me aside I still didn't subscribe to killing your problems especially people or ponies... When you kill someone you take everything they are and everything they might become, you might stop any evil they might do but along the same line you prevent any redemption and the good they might do in the future... It was a trade off I guess but despite her arrogance and the danger she presented I couldn't do it, now if she had harmed Twi, Scootaloo my child or friends even... Well... I quietly put the blade in my dresser drawer turning to go back downstairs.

"A wise decision."

I jumped, I had been sure she was asleep! "Sunset..."

She smiled in the moonlight. "Please, when you’re as powerful as I am there’s always those who want to take what you have. I'm pleased you chose not to try I'd hate to see you burned to ash... Yet." She pulled back the sheet looking at me expectantly. "I find the night cold, warm me."

"I don't think I..."

"Warm me." Her tone left no doubt it was an order not a request. I slid in beside her and she turned her back pressing herself against me, I could feel her trembling slightly maybe she really was cold? I put my arms carefully around her as she pulled the sheet back over us. Her breathing slowed as did the slight tremble cutting off completely as she fell asleep. I sighed quietly having her in my arms smelling not quite like Twi but very nice none the less was... Difficult. A certain part of me was a traitor of course but I paid it no mind still exhausted I slipped off to sleep my mind filled with thoughts of Twi, Scootaloo and what might happen to Ponyville...

Again I was awoken but not by something I couldn't identify this time, a low moan as I opened my eyes and found Sunset face to face with me her eyes still tightly shut as she struggled against something in her sleep.

"No... Please... Let me go... Take it off..."

I noticed a light glow from under the sheet pulling it back to look under I found her amulet I could see it clearly now its eyes aglow pulsing lightly lighting it, a pair of wings raised above the main triangular body of it with a Unicorn head... No I guess an Alicorn head... Without really thinking I reached out grabbing it to take it off of her, the effect was immediate as I gripped it the eyes flashed much brighter and a pulse of power slammed me away from it off the bed into the wall. I blinked trying to shake off the impact glancing up I found Sunset looking down at me her face a mask of rage but her eyes sad .

"I told you never to touch it!" Her horn glowed and I noticed her teal eyes flashed red a moment before a irresistible invisible weight pinned me to the floor and slowly began to crush the air out of me as I helplessly struggled.

"Sorry..." I managed to gasp, a few moments more and I was sure I would pass out I was about to have to reveal my magic by trying to teleport out from under this force but suddenly her expression changed and the weight was gone.

"Very well... I suppose that’s enough punishment, this time... You just stay there for the rest of the night."

She turned away laying back down and I didn't have the strength or inclination to argue with her. As I passed out I couldn't help but wonder what the connection was...? What the hell is going on...?

I awoke the next morning to an incessant nudging and Sunset standing over me.

"Breakfast, now."

I struggled to my feet still sore and very stiff from an uncomfortable night on the floor and made my way downstairs with her following me, I made breakfast and ate still watching her warily.

She finished and turned making her way towards the door. "It's time to begin reshaping this town into something more befitting of me."

I quickly followed still determined to keep her in check as much as I could. "In what way...? Mistress Sunset."

"You'll see..."

As soon as we stepped outside her horn glowed summoning a small cart she jumped in the back of. "Let's go, around the outskirts of town first so I can get my bearings."

"Alright..." Apparently she enjoyed humiliating me, oh well better me then some innocent pony. I pulled her around the outside of town along the barrier shield hoping for a glimpse of Twi but she wasn't to be seen I hoped deep in plans with Trixie and Zecora, coming up with some way out of this predicament.

As we passed through town the streets were mostly empty everyone still being cautious which was good... She stopped me as we neared town square and the fountain there.

"I desire a statue of me to be built here, now! Arrange it."

A bit taken aback I managed to stammer. "Of... Of course Mistress Sunset, please rest here and I'll go see to it."

"Good."

I left her there heading to the Mayor first she would know who we would need to get Sunsets 'tasks' done as I was sure this wouldn't be the end of it. She was resistant but she understood how dangerous the situation was and promised to get a sculptor sent right away. Struck by sudden brilliance (I hoped)... I also asked her to send a painter who made portraits, if I could get her posing for the day or even several days... All the better to keep the people of Ponyville safe. On my way back to town square I was suddenly yanked into an ally.

"What in Tartarus do you think your doing Rick?!"

"Dash...! Pinkie, Rarity, Applejack...? Where’s Fluttershy?"

"She’s tendin to the critters stuck in town... Don't dodge the question, what'r you doin helpin that Sunset Shimmer?!"

"I'm not helping her Applejack; I'm trying to keep her contained as much as I can to keep Ponyville safe!"

"Uh huh, and how about last night? Who were ya keeping safe holding her in your arms?"

"Dash! How did you...?" I sighed leaning against the wall. "Do you really think so little of me? I was just trying to gain her confidence... Something’s not right, her amulet it’s..."

"It's called the Alicorn Amulet..." Rarity smiled at my shocked look. "What darling? We weren't at your home last night to spy on you... Well not only that, you and Twilight have the greatest collection of books and the most on magic in Ponyville. It was a bit of a shock to find them all in the basement but it did make our job easier stealth wise."

"We searched and searched! I thought I was going to have words imprinted on my eyeballs! But finally just before dawn Applejack found a book with some information on it!"

"Shucks Pinkie it coulda been any of us..."

"Well? What did it say?"

"Not much I'm afraid, we've read the whole book front to back but the information on the amulet is pretty bare. They call it a legendary artifact that grants immense magical power but its very existence is questionable!"

"Obviously not..."

"Your right about that sugar, we've got to get this information to Twilight somehow..."

"I've got an idea how we can do that but we'll need Fluttershy."

"That’s great Dash; don't tell me anything though I have no idea if she can cast a spell to read my mind or anything else. I'd better get back to her before she does something..." At their sceptical looks I sighed again. "Please, trust me this is the best I can do right now. I'm sorry I'm not strong enough to face her directly I'm just doing my best to make sure no one else suffers..."

Applejack smiled. "Ah know it; we're just givin you a hard time."

"Yeah if you messed around behind Twilights back she’s kick your rear so hard you wouldn't believe it!"

"There’s no doubt of your love for Twilight Rick, just be careful."

"Thanks for looking out for everyone." Pinkie hugged me tightly with a smile.

"Thanks girls, for trusting me... For everything, together we'll get through this."

They nodded in agreement and we all went our separate ways, I hoped they could get that information to Twilight and she could do something with it.

I got back to town square to find things... A little out of hand. The fountain had apparently been deconstructed and reformed in a solid block of stone water was spraying up from the fountains foundation, a few ponies were watching from alleys or peeking through curtains and two ponies a earth and a Unicorn stood aside looking unsure one had a box I imagined of tools and the other a canvas and likely a box of paints. I rushed up motioning them to stay and wait a moment as I approached Sunset who was lounging back on a bench with a large umbrella protecting her from the spray.

"Hmm...? Oh, what took you so long?"

"Sorry Mistress Sunset, the sculptor is here and I thought perhaps you might like a portrait as well so I arranged for a painter to come."

She thought about it a moment. "Yes... Every pony will want a picture of me on their wall..."

To throw darts at, I thought to myself.

"Perhaps you could redirect the water? So it doesn't interfere with the painting or sculpting... And we wouldn't want you to get wet as you pose of course."

"Very well..." Her horn glowed bending pipes sending the water cascading over towards a nearby park. She picked a nice spot summoning a couch to lounge on that looked suspiciously like Rarity’s drama couch she was going to be ticked! After a little convincing the painter and sculptor both got to work, I helped the sculptor assemble a framework around the block of stone so he could work on all levels. The painter didn't need any assistance so as they worked I had an opportunity to relax a bit.

The water raining down on the park enticed some fillies and colts out of their homes to play, I kept a watch on them and Sunset in case she got irritated but she seemed to ignore them letting the ponies do their job. Around noon she waved them off sending me to fetch lunch and drinks. When I returned she was up her horn glowing looking around suspiciously.

"What’s wrong?"

"Something is attacking my shield!" She summoned her cart and jumped in. "Go!" She pointed off in a direction and a pulled her in that direction, after a short while we reached the shield to find six beavers dragging a large log and slapping their tails against the shield.

"What do you think your doing?!"

They chittered at her, I had no idea what they were saying and it didn't look like she did either. Too bad Fluttershy wasn't here...

"It looks like their trying to get back to their dam; you don't want them in your town anyhow do you?"

"No... I suppose not, filthy creatures." Her horn glowed creating a temporary doorway that the beavers zipped through dragging their log and it closed behind them. "Back to lunch."

The rest of the day was spent watching the sculptor work, his task would take some time and frustrating the painter as Sunset rejected painting after painting setting those aside to 'gift' to the townsfolk. I stood by her side either shading her or fanning her bored out of my mind. By that evening she still had not found one she liked and the sculptor though not even half done was was getting nervous wondering if he was going to be making Sunset sculptures for years like the painter!

I hadn’t seen any of our friends so I could only hope they got Fluttershy out safely somehow, after dinner again she ordered me into bed to 'warm' her. Nothing sexual but it was strange, again in the middle of the night she awoke me with her nameless fear this time however I didn't touch the amulet just stroked her mane and neck carefully and comfortingly. It definitely reminded me of what happened to Shimmer but this couldn't be the Miasma... I hoped, something to do with this amulet...

The next morning I woke up before her making breakfast for when she awoke, she smiled pleased when she came down. "Very good, your learning."

I grimaced. "Thank you Mistress Sunset."

Most of the rest of the day was spent much the same as the last, later in the day the painter was tearing his mane out when Sunset sat up suddenly her horn aglow.

"Again?!" She summoned a much larger cart hopping in. "Let’s go!"

"What this time?"

"Someone’s damaging my shield! Go!"

We got to the shield and I couldn't help but smile there was Twilight... Oh Trixie and Zecora too, Twi had a stout necklace on with a green gemstone in front. Sunsets horn glowed and the shield shimmered slightly allowing them to talk through it.

"What's the matter, Twilight Sparkle? Not enjoying your exile?" She looked around disinterested. "I don't see your beloved Princess with you was she less then sympathetic? Poor little pony..." She cooed.

"I know about the Alicorn Amulet. I know you cheated!"

"Cheated? You dare?"

"Yes. That amulet isn't the only one out there, there are some even more powerful! I thought you might want to see what a real magical amulet looks like, Zecora gave this to me. It's from far beyond the Everfree Forest; its power far exceeds the Alicorn amulet."

"Don't fool yourself. Nothing's more powerful than the Alicorn Amulet! And no pony, Alicorn or not is more powerful then Tjernobog! I... I mean Sunset Shimmer...!" She shook her head swaying slightly.

"Oh...? Care to put your amulet where your mouth is? How about another duel? If you’re so confident..."

She recovered glowering at them. "Why should I? I already beat you, took your town, your home and your husband..." She sneered grabbing me telekinetically and turning me to plant a kiss on my lips I was unable to resist, she pulled away dropping me down.

"How dare you! I'm going to...!" Trixie and Zecora pulled her back a moment whispering in her ears calming her down. "Fine... I guess you'll never see how powerful true magic can be... Bitch. Come on, Zecora, Trixie..."

Sunset’s brow crinkled. "Wait!" With a flash the shield disappeared. "Very well, you’re on. A second duel, back to town so everyone can see your humiliating defeat again."

As we travelled storm clouds began to gather ominous thunder and the occasional flash of lightning I couldn't see any weather ponies up there so I imagined sunset must be making it happen.

I'm sorry love...

That... That, egotistical, insufferable... Bitch!

You have a plan right?

We do... Don't worry love.

How’s Starswirl?

Out of the corner of my eye I could see her smile. She's fine.

You mean he's fine... We had been going back and forth even though we could easily find out the foals sex we both had our guess's, her female intuition told her it was a girl so naturally I had to take the opposing view though to be honest it didn't matter to me one whit.

We reached town square Sunsets half finished statue showing the water for the fountain having been turned off yesterday, I could see ponies peeking out as we arranged ourselves.

"Let's start with a simple age spell, shall we? Oh and just so you know when you fail this time..." He voice got a bit deeper crackling with unknown power. "It will cost you your life."

"Now wait a..."

"Silence slave!"

"We'll see about that, why don't you start..."

"Fine..." Her magical aura enveloped me pulling be between her and Twilight, Trixie, Zecora and our friends who had arrived along with some of the townsfolk. Her power flowed into me and suddenly I found myself sitting on the ground tiny chubby fingers, arms and legs! I was a baby? But my mind still was my own before I could say anything or try to she channelled into me again and I found it difficult to stand, my back and legs ached and much like a moment ago I seemed to be missing my teeth but again my mind seemed unaffected thankfully, another flash and I was myself again. I quickly grabbed my clothes off the ground where they laid after my infant transformation covering myself and moving out of the way embarrassed.

"Foals play, let’s see what your little trinket can do Sparkle..."

"No problem... Um, Applejack, Rarity? Could you assist me, please?" They moved over to the side together as Twilight concentrated and with a poof of purple smoke that cleared in a moment there stood a filly Applejack her hat now too big for her and a young filly Rarity looking around in surprise.

"Almost impressive, however..."

Not letting her finish Twilight cast again and with another poof Rarity was even younger a tiny foal and Applejack was an elderly mare! How did she learn to use those spells so quickly...?

"How did you...?"

"Oh there more..." Twilight smiled slyly. Targeting Dash she zapped and with another poof from behind her popped another Rainbow Dash?! "Duplication spell, lets see what else... Ever seen one pony play ten instruments at one time?" With another poof Pinkie was prancing around as a one pony band though I had seen her do that before... Though I knew Sunset had not...

"How about changing a mare into a stallion?" She levelled her horn at Applejack who blanched trying to get away but in yet another poof suddenly there stood before us a husky stallion abashedly covering himself. "E... Eeyup..." Eeyup...? Big Mac? I began to put a few pieces together. With a final poof Applejack was returned to normal.

"That’s not possible! How can your amulet have so much power?"

"Don't worry Sunset I'm sure you can get used to being second rate..." Twilight sauntered over with a cocky smile only to have Sunset's horn light up pulling her amulet off her. "Hey give that back!"

Sunsets eyes flashed as she undid her amulet pulling the new one on. "With the power of this amulet and my own I will rule all of Equestria! You will all bow to..."

She was suddenly interrupted by Dash swooping in and grabbing the Alicorn amulet from her.

"What?! Fine... You can be the first example..." Her voice was again low and growly as her horn lit up unleashing a torrent of lightning at Dash catching her midair, the result however was thankfully much less then I feared, Dash only giggled tried to cover herself.

"That tickles... Stop..."

"What...? What have you done? This amulet has no power..."

"Indeed it does not." A voice rang out as Princess Celestia swooped down through the storm clouds scattering them a dozen guards with her. She levitated a plain looking box over to Dash. "Quickly."

Dash quickly placed it inside closing the lid and almost immediately Sunset collapsed to the ground.

"Princess! How did...?"

"Twilight Sparkle, I felt the magic from the Alicorn Amulet before but I couldn't locate it, thankfully I was ready this time only to arrive and find you had the situation well in hoof."

"We didn't want to trouble you..."

"I understand, and I'm glad this turned out so well but the Alicorn amulet is very dangerous."

"Pardon me Princess but we couldn't dig up much about it at all..."

Seeing the danger passed more of the townsfolk came out of hiding and along with them a painted up Big Mac, Granny Smith, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Pumpkin Cake as well as Fluttershy. Scootaloo came flying out as well bee lining to Twilight and I who held her and each other tightly.

"Let us retire to the library and I will explain all I can..." She levitated Sunset up onto her back leading us as her guards reassured any pony that came out looking for answers.

"Where are my books?!" Was naturally the first words out of Twi's mouth as we entered.

"All safe love, just downstairs."

She breathed a sigh of relief as we all gathered around Princess Celestia who laid Sunset down on the couch sitting beside her protectively.

"Princess... What are you doing? She hates you; she said you cast her out..."

She sighed gently stroking Sunset with one of her wings her horn glowing as she examined her. "Not too far gone..." She whispered. "I admit in our student / teacher relationship there were problems but I would never cast aside a promising student like her, she had begun to grow dissatisfied with my teaching methods... She wanted to learn too fast, too much and too dangerous. We were at an impasse and when she asked for a leave of absence to go do some studying and research on her own years ago I had to grant it to her... She never came back..."

"It had something to do with the amulet didn't it?" I asked.

"Yes... There have always been Alicorns on our world, not all of them have been benevolent... Tjernobog... His name is wiped from nearly all records from a time long before even Luna and I's parents came, what records remain tell of his cruelty and brutality. The spell... The one I used on you Rick and Twilight's magic thankfully changed originated with him. Even Alicorns do not live forever but he refused to accept his end, many ponies were sacrificed for his selfish desires... During his time there were other Alicorn's as well each with their own fiefdoms when he had drained or driven away all his subjects and the other Alicorns refused to let him touch their own minions he devised a plan, into this amulet he poured all his power, hatred and hubris... I don't know where Sunset found it but such a thing corrupts the user, providing power but subtly influencing them turning their small fears and worries against them, he used her to further his own agendas..."

Sunset stirred under Celestias wing opening her eyes and blinking looking around wildly before jumping off the couch and throwing herself down on the floor prostrating herself. "Princess Celestia! I'm so sorry! Twilight Sparkle! Rick! All of you...! I... I couldn't help myself! Everything he suggested to me seemed so reasonable, even things I knew weren't right! I couldn't fight him... I was weak, so helpless... I'm sorry I know I don't deserve forgiveness..." She turned to me her eyes filled with tears. "I wanted you to strike me down so badly that night, why didn't you!?"

"You didn't deserve that Sunset; maybe he did but not you."

"He wanted to kill you! I begged for him to spare you, as a gift to me... He wanted me complacent so he agreed..."

I knelt down and helped her up giving her a hug. "Well then thank you."

She smiled levitating my ring off her horn placing it in my hand then turned back to the Princess bowing low again. "I'm so sorry Princess, I let you down. I'm not worthy to be your student, Twilight clearly is..."

"A small mistake my student, while you might not have Twilights talent you still have great promise. And while I have a student right now I do know of someone who doesn't..."

"You mean..."

"You must meet her first naturally; come back with me to Canterlot, your room still sits as it was... I wasn't ready to give up on you."

Tears filled her eyes as she smiled. "Thank you Princess! Again my apologies to you all, I can understand if you hate me..."

"Well I dunno about that..."

"I mean it's not like anyone got hurt..."

"You did steal my couch but I suppose even that can be forgiven..."

"You sure made everything pretty dreary around here... But now I can cheer everyone up... With a big, huge... Party!"

"I'm glad you didn't hurt any animals..." Fluttershy whispered avoiding eye contact with Trixie.

"Thank you all..."

"You’re just lucky you didn't hurt my Mom or Dad..."

"Scootaloo! This was definitely a learning experience, the amulet made you too powerful for me or any of us with the exception of you Princess.” Twilight added with a small bow. "To face you directly so we had to devise a way to trick you, to anyone who knew us it might have been a bit more obvious but for the power hungry entity that had a hold of you... An easy bait. Good luck Sunset Shimmer I wish you all the best, lets not do this again." She smiled.

"Thank you!"

"Its getting late and we must return to Canterlot..." She put her wing comfortingly over Sunset. "I look forward to getting a letter from each of you about this..." As Sunset exited Celestia smiled. "My sister’s first student... This should be interesting... Farewell friends, thank you for your quick thinking..." Apparently she must have sensed the tension in the air between Trixie and Fluttershy as well as everyone else. “Perhaps you should come along as well Trixie, it will be alright.”

She hung her head sadly. “Very well…”

Fluttershy nudged her gently. “Please… Write me.”

“I will! I… I will…”

We all waved as they took off Sunset and the box containing the amulet with them likely to be store in Alizarins archives for the rest of time. It was late and everyone went their separate ways Applejack and Apple Bloom eager to get home, Twilight and I thanked everyone as they left turning to go back inside we found a sleepy filly by the couch, I picked her up and we tucked her in.

"Mmm... Glad to be home and glad your both ok." She yawned as we both kissed her forehead.

"Thanks Angel, sleep tight."

"Sweet dreams honey."

It had been a long couple of days I scooped Twilight up and carried her up to bed.

"So sleeping with another mare when I hadn't been even gone a day...?" She teased nuzzling my neck.

"Darn it Rainbow Dash... Just doing what I had to do to keep everyone safe, nothing happened I swear..."

"I know, an evil male entity wouldn't be too interested in you except to keep her in line don't you think?"

"Yeah I guess..." I enfolded her in my arms holding her close and kissing her softly. "I love you Twi, they might separate us for awhile but nothing can keep me from you..."

"Good, that’s the way I want it. Love you..."

We started to drift off together when I felt her twitch.

I get to reshelf all the books tomorrow!

I laughed squeezing her. Sure do love.

Wait a minute! When she kissed me a guy was in control…? Not sure how I feel about that...

She giggled snuggling against me. Silly…

Despite that minor worry sleep came easily...

Interlude: The Date.

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Summer days, hot days and warm nights too. We spend a little time developing a small spell to keep us cool at night, Twilight needed her sleep after all. Scootaloo apparently didn't need it though Pegasus it seemed were resistant to heat and cold extremes. More so for my little Angel summer meant freedom, no school and though we did have a few chores for her at the library she was free, maybe a little too free...

"...Your here to what?” I asked with my most menacing scowl at the young colt standing in my doorway.

He shifted from one hoof to the other swallowing nervously. "I... I'm here... To... To..."

I rolled my eyes slightly. "Spit it out."

"I'm here to take Scootaloo to the movies!!!" He burst out clapping his forehooves over his mouth blushing slightly.

I gave him another disapproving look as I towered over him before I smiled lightly and stepped aside ushering him in. "I suppose you may as well come in then..."

I gestured him over to the couch then went to the kitchen and made a couple of glasses of iced tea sitting one down in front of him and taking a seat across from him in my easy chair. I looked him over as he nervously sipped his drink, right around the same age as my Angel he was a Pegasus colt with a dark grey mane and tail with a lighter grey streak in them and a very light grey coat.

"So you’re in the same class as my daughter?"

He jumped nearly spilling his drink quickly righting it as he stammered an apology. "Y... Yes sir, Miss Cheerilee's class... I sit just in front of her... Um..."

I'd probably tortured him enough, for now... I leaned back taking a drink myself. "She's just with her mother getting ready. Relax, make yourself at home."

He sat stiffly on the couch looking for all intents and purposes like a deer caught in the headlights. I felt a little sorry for him thinking back to my first date but on the other hand he thought he was good enough to go out with my little Angel. He must suffer...

When she came home and told us a colt had asked her out, Twi was excited but I was... Horrified? Yeah that about sums it up. We had a small disagreement; at least I did my point being she's not even nine yet! And just who the heck is this Rumble anyhow?! 'It's just a movie Rick not a marriage proposal!' Twi giggled. 'Eww...' Was naturally Scootaloo's response. 'Come on Dad, I really want to see this movie!' I was going to suggest that I could just take her but a warning look from Twi shut my mouth a few hours later and he shows up...

"So how are your parents?"

"Oh! Their good! Yup... Good..."

"I see you've earned your cutie mark..."

"Yes sir."

"How did that come about?"

"You want to know how I...? Oh! Well ever since I started flying I've been fascinated by thunder clouds... How they were made, the correct mixtures of cloud, water and... Sorry..."

"That’s ok, go on..."

"Well, I started trying to make them myself! Just small to start with but I couldn't get it quite right. I never gave up though I tried again and again until one day I finally got it right! My parents weren't too happy when I made half my room into a storm cloud... But that day I got my mark..."

His mark certainly looked the part a dark cloud mass with a small lightning bolt coming out of it.

"Interesting, and just what makes you think you should be taking Scootaloo out?"

"What?! I mean... I... I..."

Saved by the bell as Twilights voice came from Scootaloo’s just opened door. "Here she is...!"

We both looked over and gasped slightly; I don't know how she did it... Maybe with magic, Scootaloo's mane and tail usually adorably wild and messy but now straight, neat and pretty. No makeup thankfully but she looked so beautiful it made my heart hurt...

We both stood up, Rumbles mouth was half open as he stared. "Wow..."

I cleared my throat and he jumped slightly again. "Are... Are you ready to go Scootaloo...?"

"You bet come on!"

I quickly interposed myself between them and the door. "Just a second..."

"Daaad...!"

"What time is the movie playing?"

"Six thirty..."

"And afterwards?"

"I was going to take her... I mean, we were going to go for a sundae..." He nervously replied as Scootaloo rolled her eyes.

"Well..."

"Rick." Twilight walked up beside me giving me a nudge.

"Alright... Have her back no later then ten. Got it?”

"Yes sir!"

"Yes sir..." Scootaloo mimicked sticking her tongue out but whether at him or me I wasn't quite sure.

I stood aside and Rumble exited for some reason eager to get out of the house but I snagged Angel before she left kneeling down to talk to her. "Now if he tries any funny business a quick smack with your hoof between his back legs will deal with it..."

"Dad!"

"Just be careful... And have a good time."

"Thanks Dad, bye Mom!" She kissed me on the cheek and took off after Rumble catching up to him easily as he was waiting at out mailbox and they trotted off together.

I stood up and Twilight joined me watching them go off together, I put my arm over her squeezing her gently.

"I can't believe your ok with this..."

"Rick! It's her first date, it's adorable!"

"No, no, no… You don't know what guys are like..."

"Oh really?"

"Ok, not all of them... But why take the chance?"

She giggled pulling me down for a sweet kiss. "So protective, what about Starswirl, she's going to want to date someday too..."

"Not until she's a hundred! If, and it’s a big if... The foal is a she."

"Fifty, fifty chance love..." She leaned against me smiling. "We've got to let her go someday, baby steps. I'm glad she is getting to experience all sorts of things I didn't get to."

"I guess... I don't want her to get hurt..."

She sighed. "We can't help that, only be there for her good or bad."

"Your right... Say, love...?"

"What?"

"Want to go to a movie...?"

Chapter 9 (Sisterhood)

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It had been a week and a few days since my Angels 'date', Twi had kept me from interfering in that and the few that followed. Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle teased her a bit about it but they looked a little jealous while they did it.

Only a day into July and about a month until D day and Twilight was more then ready, despite how much I loved her pregnant I had to agree it was time. She was tired, sore and a bit irritable but she still glowed like the sun. I still couldn't keep my hands off her but she wasn't always in the mood for cuddling, or anything else...

Scootaloo came home in the afternoon excited galloping up to us, god I hoped it wasn't another date...

"Mom, Dad! Applejack and Apple Bloom are going on a camping trip! And they said I could come! Sweetie Belle is going to ask Rarity to come too!"

"That sounds like fun honey..."

"Yeah... But..."

"What is it Angel?"

"Well... I was thinking... Hoping maybe Rainbow Dash might want to come... I haven't asked her... I just thought... Maybe, if I could impress her maybe she'd take me under her wing! Show me some tricks... Like a real sister! I'm sorry, I love training with you Dad and all the books we've read on flying techniques really helped Mom but..."

"But you want someone to really fly with..." Twilight smiled smiling.

"Uh huh..."

"Want us to bring it up to her Angel?"

"Would you?"

"Of course we would honey and I'm sure she will be interested."

"Why don't you pack a few things and we'll go talk to her right now."

"Thank you, thank you!" She hugged and kissed us both rushing off to pack.

"Well, we better go find Rainbow Dash then!" Twilight giggled.

"One sec love..." I retrieved the camera from the closet carefully taking the film.

"What’s that for?"

"Leverage..." I grinned.

On the way to get the film developed I explained about the picture, Twi just shook her head with as smile. We dropped off the film with the assurance it would be done in an hour and went to find Dash, she wasn't home so we checked around town until Twi started to get tired so we decided to stop for a cool drink and who should we find waiting in line...?

"Dash!"

"Hey Rick, Twilight. What’s up?"

She was a few spots ahead of us and gave up her spot to come and stand with us.

"Why don't you go sit down love, you too Dash I'll get the drinks."

"Thanks..."

"Sure, make mine pineapple Rick."

They sat down while I waited and on a hot day like this the ice cream parlour was a popular spot, still they kept things moving fast, I got Dash her shake and a strawberry one for me and a chocolate one for Twi.

"Here you go ladies, I've just got to go pick something up I'll be right back."

We'll ask her together so just give me a second ok?

I don't think we really need to blackmail her.

It'll still be funny.

Well I would like to see the look on her face I suppose, alright see you soon.

I hurried to the camera store to get the pictures, the roll hadn't been full so it was a thin envelope the pony at the counter handed me, I paid and left eager to surprise / embarrass Dash and to get back before my milkshake melted too much.

Twilight and Dash were talking together as I entered they looked my way and giggled to one another.

"What are you two talking about?"

"Just mare talk..." Twi smiled.

"I see..." I sat down and took a refreshing drink of my shake.

"So Rainbow Dash, we wanted to ask you something..."

"Oh? What’s up?"

"Well Applejack and maybe Rarity are taking Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle camping for a few days and we were wondering if you wanted to go as well and maybe take Scootaloo along with you?"

"You know how she idolizes you..." Twilight added.

"Well yeah... I'm awesome! I dunno though, I've got tickets for a Wonderbolts show. I might even get to hang out with some of them after!"

"But you can do that anytime! And you'll see plenty of them when you get into the academy!"

"If, Twilight..."

"Don't be silly, you’re a shoe-in. Please, it would mean so much to her."

"Aww come on, you know I'm not that big on kids... Don't get me wrong I like the squirt fine, she reminds me of me when I was young!"

"Maybe these will change your mind..." I slid the envelope across the table to her with a sly smile.

"Hmmm?" With a little difficulty she opened the envelope and sorted through the few pictures a confused look on her face. "I don't see how any of these would change my mind..."

"What?!" I grabbed the pictures looking through them, one of Twilight and Spike in front of the library, one of Spike fast asleep in a pile of junk food, a few more of her and Spike along with our friends. Then a surprising one of me asleep sprawled out on her old spare bed she blushed as I looked over at her.

"I forgot I took that...! I... I was just..."

I chuckled and pulled her close kissing her passionately. The next picture I recognised from Angels sleepover her and the rest of the girls all made up and looking pretty there was only one picture left so it must be the one! Maybe she just didn't see it? I uncovered the last picture and groaned as Twilight giggled beside me, a perfect picture of the top of our couch and the top of my head missing Dash's cuddling altogether. Damn...

She leaned over looking a second before she clued in laughing. "Oooh... Nice try Rick, you've got to get up earlier then that to get the better of me. What else ya got?"

She was still laughing when a coin got flipped onto the table spinning before us.

"What’s this?" Dash asked Twilight just smiled leaning against me as it spun, after a second or two it wobbled coming to rest a single bit with a D etched into it. Dash stared at it a moment before bursting out laughing pushing it back over to Twi.

"Ok, ok you got me. You don't need to use this though Twilight I should have just agreed straight off I was just being difficult, it'll be fun."

"Thanks Dash, I'll get you one of these times..."

"Ha! Keep trying Rick."

"Scootaloo will be so excited... Ooh! Someone else is excited too..."

I put my hand on her belly feeling the little kicks as I had a hundred times before, never got tired of it...

Soon Starswirl...

Soon...

"You two really are something special together you know?" We both looked over to find Dash watching us with a grin. "Not that I'm into any of that kinda stuff you know..." She blushed quickly finishing off her milkshake.

Twi smiled knowingly nodding her head. "No, not our Rainbow Dash..."

"Darn straight... Ahh!!! Brain freeze!"

We nearly fell out of our chairs laughing as she squeezed her head groaning. "Ow..." She shook her head. "I'm going to go lay in the sun a bit then go see Applejack and see what I'll need to bring, tell the squirt I'll see her there ok?"

"You bet, thanks again Dash."

We walked out with her she stretched her wings a moment before taking off hovering before us. "Anytime really. See ya guys!" And she flew off towards Sweet Apple Acres.

"Scootaloo will be so happy! Let’s go home and tell her the good news."

"Sounds good love."

We headed home not in a big hurry and found Angel with her saddlebags loaded to the max and even some stuff set aside.

"Angel it's only for a couple days..." I laughed.

"What did she say?! What did she say?!" She galloped over excitedly.

I scooped her up hugging her tightly then putting her on Twi's back. "She said yes of course, who wouldn't want to spend time with a wonderful little filly like you?" I teased.

"Daaad! She really said yes? Really?!" She snuggled against Twi poking her head through her mane to look up at her.

"She did Honey, you'll have a great time."

"Maybe... Maybe I can convince her to take me under her wing..."

"And be your mentor you mean Honey?"

"Yeah! Show me... Teach me... Maybe even just hang out with me sometime... I... Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom always have so much fun with their sisters..."

"I know how you feel, Shining Armor is the best big brother I could have ever asked for but when I was young he had school and guard pony practice a lot, my parents were really busy too but like a miracle they got Cadence to foal sit me and suddenly I had someone... A kindred spirit! She always had time for me even when she wasn't sitting me! And we had so much in common; I was always so excited to see her. Armor was too but we all know why that was now..." She giggled.

"It'll be so great..." Scootaloo smiled lying down on Twilights back daydreaming.

"You never get this excited when I take you anywhere..." I mock pouted.

"That’s not true! I mean... Kinda..."

I burst out laughing kneeling down to hug her and Twi. "I'm kidding Angel; I know Dash can teach you so much more then me."

She sat up leaning over to kiss me on the cheek. "You believe in me..." She whispered.

I smiled and ruffled her mane. "We both do Angel and we always will..."

We sorted though her saddlebags taking out what she wasn't going to need evening them out so she could actually lift them and go on a hike with them. With everything ready we placed them by the door for the next morning. She was so excited it took another hour to get her to bed and asleep, we were both pretty sure she'd be up at the crack of dawn so we turned in as well, sure enough...

"Wake up! Wake up! Mom, Dad... It's morning!"

I glanced over at the clock and she was technically correct it was morning... Four in the morning, still I couldn't be mad at her adorable enthusiasm I grabbed her pulling her beneath the sheet between Twilight and I.

"Shhh, still a little too early Angel. Mom needs her sleep..."

"Sorry...'

Twilight giggled running her forehoof over Scootaloo's mane smiling. "That’s alright Honey; we'll have plenty of time to sleep while you’re away..." She teased nudging her.

"Mom!'

"We'll miss you Angel but for now try to get a little more sleep. You don't want to be all tired and grumpy when you’re with Dash right?"

"Noo, I don't..."

I rubbed her back pulling her and Twi close snuggling together. "It's going to be a big day for you Honey; I just know you and Rainbow Dash are going to get along so well."

"Thanks Mom..." She yawned her initial burst of excitement running out as her eyelids drooped.

All three of us drifted off, one big happy family...

Ring a ding! Seven am came quickly; I was still a bit tired but the excited little filly jumping on the bed mitigated that considerably.

"Let’s go! Let’s go! Wait... Should I get there early to show how reliable I am just like her? Or should I be a bit late showing my reckless devil may care attitude also like her...?"

"Its rude to keep others waiting on you Honey..."

"Or maybe I should be right on time? Done to the last second! Hmm... I guess that would be more like you Mom... That probably wouldn't impress her..."

I couldn't help but let out a chuckle both at Scootaloo's frankness and Twi's disgruntled look; I regained control of myself quickly but was still unable to wipe the grin off my face as we sat up in bed. "Be that as it may Angel, we better get ready or you'll definitely be late."

"Oh no!" She leapt off the bed soaring downstairs with ease. "Come on Mom and Dad!"

Twilight and I shared a smile getting out of bed and I helped her downstairs, being a quadruped certainly gave her more stability and strength then a human woman would while pregnant but it took some effort sometimes for her to get around. A car would be nice help her get around... I suppose we could get a cart though we both didn't care for spending much on luxury items (excepting books, things for Scootaloo and lately baby stuff of course.) I decided we'd check into renting one on our way to Sweet Apple Acres for awhile, it couldn't hurt...

We had a quick breakfast and got Scootaloo all ready making sure she had all she needed, we were sure Applejack would be prepared but we brought along some traditional camping fare to send along anyhow, marshmallows, s’mores and trail mix.

Twi was resistant to renting a cart at first but her aching hooves won over and soon I was pulling her and Scootaloo up the road to Sweet Apple Acres, we got there a little bit ahead of time and found Applejack and Apple Bloom getting ready loading up their saddlebags for the trip.

"Well howdy Twilight and Rick, ya ready to hit the trail Scootaloo?"

"Yeah... But where’s Rainbow Dash? She's still coming right?"

"Course she is sweetheart, she's just in town picking up a few things. I'm sure she'll have plenty of time to get here knowin Rarity she might be a few hours yet!" She laughed.

We got comfortable chatting together while Scootaloo and Apple Bloom galloped and played together. Another half an hour and Rainbow Dash soared down with her own saddlebags on.

"Hey guys! Hope I'm not too late?"

"Not at all Rainbow, still waiting on Rarity..."

"She's coming, I spotted her on the way but I think she may have over packed a little..."

In a few minutes we saw that was no exaggeration, Rarity and Sweetie Belle came trotting up a cart nearly overflowing with items and poor little Sweetie Belle pulling it!

I rushed up taking over for her. "Rarity!"

She gave me her best innocent look. "What? She insisted..."

"Just... Wanted... To... Help..." Sweetie Belle gasped.

Rarity levitated her exhausted sister onto her back smiling at me and trotting ahead as I pulled her heavy cart, fortunately it was a well made cart and rolled surprisingly easily.

Scootaloo and Apple Bloom galloped up and Sweetie Belle hopped off her sister’s back all three of them so adorably excited to go on this adventure. "Let’s go! Are we ready? I'm so excited!" They squealed together.

"Hold on youngins... I know yer all excited but first we gotta lay down a few rules. Number one; don't be wandering off on your own. An you three count as one so stick with us ya hear?"

"Yes Applejack..."

"Alright then, number two. Careful with the fires, we don't wanna be burnin down any of the forest..."

"Of course Applejack!"

"Great! Last an not least if'n ya have any questions ask me, Rainbow Dash... Well I guess even Rarity..." She snickered.

"Honestly Applejack, if you have some fashion questions feel free to ask me. As for this... Nature, you best stick with Applejack or Rainbow Dash."

"Okay! Can we go now?!" All three girls lined up eagerly.

"You bet, load em up and head er out!"

Everyone got ready and Applejack lead the way, Apple Bloom and Scootaloo looked ready to help Sweetie Belle so I was glad about that. I scooped up my little Angel for a goodbye hug between Twilight and I. "We'll miss you Angel, have fun."

"I'll miss you too!"

"See you in a few days Honey, just be polite and I know Rainbow Dash will see so much of herself in you."

"Hope so... Gotta go! Love you!" And with that she galloped off to help pull the wagon eager to catch up to Rainbow Dash.

I sighed watching them go.

"My love, it's good for her to learn from different ponies and I know Rainbow Dash and her will have so much in common." She whispered leaning against me.

"I guess... I certainly can't teach her everything, or keep her with me always. I don't know... After everything she's been through... Never mind, I just want to prolong her childhood I guess." I grinned.

"Silly, I love how you care for her... For us, Starswirl is going to be one very lucky filly."

I'd given up trying to argue with her about that if it was a boy or girl it really didn't matter to me, either way it was going to be amazing...

"With a mother as caring and loving as you Starswirl will be twice as lucky and a sister like Scootaloo...? Well, three times the charm? Let’s go home love..."

It's strange the things you get used to... Take for granted I suppose, Scootaloo galloping around the house helping Twilight or I with whatever we happened to be doing. Wolfing down supper to go spend some more time with her friends, little things... Needless to say I was bit distracted for the rest of the day, hopefully she was having a great time.

Later that evening we were reading in bed together, I put my book aside rubbing Twi's back and kissing up her neck and nibbling on her soft ears trying to get a little something started, she was too close for intercourse but there were still plenty of ways we could make each other feel good.

"Mmm... That feels nice..." She rolled over and we kissed feverishly caressing one another. I kissed my way down her soft body paying special attention to her swollen belly before moving lower...

"Rick..."

"Mmm...?"

"Rick...!"

Now Twi was a vocal mare during... But she sounded panicked, I sat up suddenly concerned. "What?"

Her face was flushed but that wasn't unusual in this particular instance.

"I... Ahh...!"

I felt and could see the spasm of pain in her face and without thinking opened myself to take it away but she stopped me. "N... No... This is part of it... I want to... Ahrg...!"

She didn't object when I tried again taking half of her pain, it was strange like nothing I had felt before. Like there was something inside trying to get out... Trying to get out!

"Wait... Is it?"

"I think so..."

I fell out of bed and was back up in a moment pacing back and forth at the foot of the bed. "It's too soon... I... Isn't it too soon?!"

She smiled opening her side table drawer pulling out the twenty seven part checklist of what to do when it was time. "Step one, calm down."

I remembered making the list with her and everything we had researched, that in itself did help calm me down. I helped her get out of bed carefully. "Ok, ok..." I took a deep breath looking over the list with her. "Step two, even if it is a 'false' birth it's still a good idea to be at the hospital just in case."

"Okay, good thing we still have the cart... Uggh!" Another spasm shot through her and me. "I'm ok..." She answered before I could even ask. "Let’s get ready, step three..."

By the time we got out to the cart we had checked off three to twenty five with only two remaining. Get to hospital and most importantly, give birth...

I tried to keep calm as I pulled her, no rush, no danger... Every contraction I could feel through her though sparked my adrenalin and we passed through town quite quickly, thankfully it was late in the evening and there was practically no traffic.

I pulled up sharply in front of the Ponyville hospital doors and rushed in as Twi checked off the second last thing. I slid up to the counter on the polished floor hitting it harder then I intended. "My wife is having a baby!" I burst out still la bit short of breath.

The nurse was calm no doubt she had seen many a panicked father to be in her time. "Just calm down sir..."

"She's out in the cart! Should I bring her in? Do I need a gurney or...?"

She smiled motioning over toward several awaiting wheelchairs nearby. I grabbed one and ran out to find her gingerly getting out of the cart.

"No, no love. Let me..." I walked around picking her up gently, she was very heavy but my adrenalin was still pumping and I didn't have much difficulty.

"Rick, I can manage..." She sighed softly as I carried her around the cart to the wheelchair setting her carefully down. "Thank you."

I wheeled her in and the nurse raised an eyebrow with a smile. "My goodness you certainly look ready, do you know how far your contractions are apart?"

I hadn't even thought to check that... "I..."

"Exactly three minutes forty five seconds for the last one." Of course she did.

"Good, we might be in for a bit of a wait still. I have some paperwork for you to fill out and if you could please move your cart sir? There could be other emergencies..."

"What? Oh! Right, of course I'm sorry. I'll be right back love."

"We'll be here." She smiled wanly still in pain but clearly relieved to be here.

I quickly moved the cart over to the designated parking area my mind racing with unpleasant scenarios and memories courtesy of Sombras door of fear. I shook my head trying to clear my thoughts as I walked back to the main doors, as I entered I could see Twi had calmed down considerably happily filling out paperwork. Satisfied the nurse showed us a private room promising to look in on us occasionally until it was time and assuring us the doctor would see us soon.

Twilight lay comfortably in the slightly raised bed practicing her breathing as I paced back and forth impatiently.

"It's ten in the evening how many other peop... Ponies could he need to see?!" I fumed.

"There are a few other patients in the hospital for your information..."

I spun to find a Unicorn pony dark yellow in color with a brown mane and tail. "Sorry doctor I didn't mean to..."

He held up his forehoof smiling in amusement. "I understand completely, now lets see what all the fuss is..." Her pulse, temperature and the condition of her belly and... Nether regions, he checked them all quickly and professionally scanning her as well with his magic. "Everything looks good, a few hours... Maybe more and we'll see."

Before he turned to go I stopped him. "But doctor it's to soon isn't it? We still had a month to go... At least!"

"Well premature foals aren't too common an occurrence but with Unicorns it does happen far more often..." Seeing my panicked look he motioned me to sit by Twilight before he continued. "Relax, it is mainly a by product of our magic use that can occasionally accelerate the foals growth within the womb. Nearly always there is no harm done other then a surprise early birth."

"Nearly?!" I had to ask.

"Occasionally... Very occasionally, some defects can occur... The loss of the foal is also a very small possibility... However! From what I can see your foal is perfectly healthy you have no cause for concern. Just be patient and soon you'll be holding your new baby." He nodded to us both and left. I didn't feel reassured...

"It'll be fine Rick." She assured caressing the side of my face with her forehoof.

I turned laying my head down on her chest to hear her heartbeat holding and rubbing her forehooves. "I can't lose you Twi... I know we're linked but I couldn't go on without you..."

"You could." She whispered soothing my hair.

"Maybe... But why?"

"For Scootaloo..."

Damn she knew me well. I sat up with a small smile brushing away a few tears. "But that’s not going to happen. You, me, Scootaloo and Starswirl..." I kissed her softly. "Love you."

"Love you, we'll be together a long time, triumphs and tragedies they'll grow up, get married and have children all their own..." She started looking a little melancholy herself thinking about it so I hugged her tightly kissing her again.

"One step at time right?"

"One step at a time..."

And so the waiting began, despite my renewed confidence that everything would be fine the waiting, every contraction, every twinge put me on edge. I sat nervously beside Twi for awhile as we waited and also paced lots and lots of pacing. Compared to me she was still quite relaxed breathing calmly and evenly smiling at my minor distress flipping through one of the hospitals magazines.

I wish Scootaloo could be here for this.

Me too... This shouldn't be taking so long! Should it?

Rick... Calm down, deep breaths. She giggled. You tell me, we've both been reading about it for months now.

I sighed taking a deep breath and kneeling down by her kissing her softly and gently caressing her swollen abdomen. Your right... It'll happen when its time. Just, really, really nervous...

I know. And I am too, but I have faith it will all turn out... "Ahggg..."

"What?!" I too felt the sharp spike of pain within her as she gasped for breath.

"I... I think its time..."

I shot straight up jogging in place momentarily. "Ok... Ok... I need to do something... Right! The nurse!" I dashed out into the hall to the nurses station, she looked up as I ran up sighing and rolling her eyes slightly as it was my seventh visit all the others having been false alarms.

"Yes mister Sparkle, what is it this time?"

"It's time! I mean... We think its time... Please..."

She sighed again trotting around the desk. "Alright..."

I followed behind her mentally urging her to gallop but we made it to the room soon enough. As she entered and saw Twilight her face got more serious and she checked her over quickly then turned to me with a nod and a smile. "You got it right this time. Just stay with her and I'll get the doctor."

I nodded numbly, it was happening...! I sat down by Twilight wiping the sweat off her brow as she kept breathing carefully favouring me with a small smile.

It'll be ok love, soon...

I'm ready for it to be done. I know you love me like this...

I kissed her softly with a smile. I love YOU. No matter what.

Once things started moving they moved fast, the doctor came quickly checking her over and confirming the nurse’s diagnosis. Her water broke moments after and I stood by Twi's head holding her forehoof lost, they didn't need me to do anything and all the preparation and planning I had done for this moment apparently had fled my mind! Not that I was completely unprepared I still had my magic and a tiny bit of experience in the birthing process, if anything went wrong I was ready granted the doctor had his magic and far more experience then me but it helped me feel better thinking I was ready for something!

I could feel every push and strain, the pain and pressure even feeling only half of it was nearly unbearable I had no idea how women and mares handled it! My part was simple I sat by Twi holding her hoof and wiping her brow reassuring her all I could until a final scream and pain we shared then silence, our ragged breathing the only sound until a soft wail as the doctor deftly cut the umbilical cord letting the nurse bundle up our foal and take it away to clean up and check it over.

My gaze followed the nurse numbly interrupted as pain spiked again.

"Just a few more pushes Mrs. Sparkle and we'll be done."

"Uggh!" The placenta passed and we both collapsed back exhausted.

"Very good!" He scanned her and smiled as I mirrored the action suddenly remembering I could even do that! "Rest, your doing fine and your foal is perfectly healthy. The nurse will be back momentarily. I'll look in on you later..." He cleaned up and left us alone, truly alone for the first time in a long while.

Are you ok?

She didn't open her eyes but smiled. I'm ok... The list and quill floated off the bedside table checking off the last item before she let it drop as she slipped into sleep. I put the list and quill back I was sure she'd want to keep that. I was tired but sleep didn't seem too likely, glancing up at the clock I was surprised to find it only a few minutes after one in the morning. Only three hours? It seemed like so much longer... I laid my head on her chest just breathing her in listening to her heartbeat and every breath calming me down...

I'm not sure how long I lay like that I could feel myself slipping off but I wasn't quite ready yet... The door opened and I sat up suddenly wide eyed staring at the nurse approaching with a wrapped bundle levitating right beside her. I stumbled to my feet and she smiled nodding to me.

"Your daughter... Congratulations." She levitated her into my arms and I held her tight yet still so gently like she was a soap bubble that might pop.

"Relax, she won't break. I'll let you get to know one another, you know where to find us if you have need..."

"Th... Thank you..." I managed to choke out as she left.

I stared at the warm bundle in my arms a moment torn between love and fear. What if something was wrong with her? What if my DNA somehow messed something up? Luna had promised us but... I slowly pushed back the wrap uncovering her tiny head eyes closed, two small normal ears, a miniature horn, her coat a pale purple even lighter then her mothers and her mane taking after her as well but it was a dark pink like Twilights streak.

I opened the blanket a bit more reviling her little forehooves folded against her perfectly normal a bit more and I could see her back legs too thankfully normal and her tail matching her mane. I just stood there staring at this tiny creature, she didn't resemble me in any way but she was my daughter... My daughter! I held her in the crook of my elbow gently rubbing her soft chest my eyes moist. I gasped in surprise as her forehooves closed around my hand holding it her seeking mouth finding a fingertip and suckling on it contently. I couldn't take it; I burst out crying in joy and love for this tiny new life nestled in my embrace.

Rick?

I had gotten so engrossed in Starswirl that I forgot about Twilight.

Twi... She... She's perfect... She's so beautiful... I... I can't...

Come here...

I stumbled over guided by her telekinesis kneeling down putting Starswirl on her chest my hand still entrapped by her.

Oh... Rick... Your right she's so perfect... Our daughter, Starswirl... I love you.

I love you...

We leaned together kissing softly, I must have jostled Starswirl slightly as she stopped suckling and yawned her eyes fluttering open and I saw the first of myself in her. A pair of big beautiful brown eyes stared up at the two strange beings looking down at her both of them smiling but sobbing tears falling like rain.

Apparently satisfied with what she saw she yawned again her eyes slowly closing but her grip undiminished as she fell back asleep.

Choked up and bawling like a baby myself I could barely manage to whisper. "Never letting go..." I looked over to Twi and kissed her again. "That goes for you and Scootaloo too, I'll never let go."

"I wouldn't want it any other way my love... And we’re never letting you go either..." She smiled as we put our heads together resting and watching the new life before us everything we had gone through, everything we were going to go through in the future...

Worth it...

Interlude: Baby steps.

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That first night I was filled with relief, worry, love and some panic too. After the nurse and doctor checked in on us we settled down to sleep, they were nice enough to let me stay so there I slept sitting in the chair leaning across the bed Starswirl nestled up against Twilight between the two of us.

I was exhausted but my mind kept playing tricks on me. Fragmented dreams woke me up with a start worrying me and causing me to look over Starswirl concerned about her and feeling a bit foolish when she was fine. I sank back to sleep only to have the process repeat several times, the third time I had finished scanning Starswirl when I heard a sigh looking over I found Twilight smiling at me.

"I know you’re worried my love, but you need your sleep too..." She whispered.

"Sorry, just my mind playing tricks, she’s fine, beautiful, so perfect..." I choked back a sob as she reached out caressing the side of my face.

"I love you so much, rest... We're going to need it I think." She giggled.

"I think your right, love you..." We kissed softly drifting back off together sleeping soundly until we were awoken by a tiny cry. We both blinked clearing our heads looking down at Starswirl who had uttered only the one cry and now stared up at us again.

"Morning baby..." I whispered caressing the side of her face with a finger. "Morning love." I leaned over to kiss Twi causing Starswirl to squeal again.

Twilight smiled rolling over slightly. "She's hungry I think."

I lifted her gently over to Twi's teats and she instinctively latched on suckling hungrily. I held her steadily as Twilight and I smiled to one another.

"Scootaloo is going to be very surprised."

"Definitely... But I think a little threatened too."

"You think so...?"

"Yes, both of us and everyone else will be paying a lot of attention to Starswirl, she's going to get jealous for certain."

"Yeah, I can see that... How did you know that?"

"Oh psychology books, parenting books, you know me."

"I sure do..." I leaned over to kiss her again careful not to disturb our hungry little Starswirl. "So what can we do to make sure she doesn't feel left out?"

"Not much unfortunately, just keep paying attention to her try to involve her in everything we do with Starswirl and anything else. Hopefully she and Rainbow Dash bonded on their trip. She won't be cooing over the foal too much so that might help too. I hope as they grow together they'll bond..."

"I know they will love, Starswirl is going to look up to her big sister and not just because she’s flying out of her reach..." I chuckled.

"Oh you... Oop, looks like she's done."

Twilight levitated a small towel to place over my shoulder in case of spit up and I gently cradled her patting her back until she let out a tiny burp. The nurse had delivered some cloth diapers late last night and it was time for a change, we got her cleaned up putting a new diaper on her. She was still wide awake so we watched and played with her touching and tickling her letting her reach up with her little hooves to touch our faces as she tried to figure us out. I only cried a few times... But at least I wasn't alone in that, as the day passed several of the nurses stopped by bringing breakfast and to see / coo over the new foal.

They had a nursery in the hospital for new foals to rest in and for the ones that needed more supervision but we really had no wish to be separated from Starswirl, maybe in fifteen years or so...

July first at two minutes after three am, female, nineteen pounds seven ounces (which would be a lot for a human baby but still very low for pony at least a Earth one). Starswirl Grace Sparkle (her middle name came from my grandmother may she rest in peace), the most beautiful, perfect little filly the world had ever seen... Well okay that might not have been printed on her birth certificate but it should have been in my opinion.

The doctor was quite pleased at Starswirls health and Twilights as well, she was still sore but she could and did manage to get up and move around a bit. He was comfortable with us going home that evening if we wished and as nice as the staff was here we were eager to get home and let everyone know the joyous news, that is of word of mouth hadn't spread through the whole town already!

Midafternoon and we were all ready, Starswirl bundled up and we said our goodbyes thanking the hospital staff for everything. We had all the supplies we would need at home, diapers, food (though she would just need milk for the first while.) And plenty of books to look up anything we might need to know and I was pretty sure that was going to be a lot!

Starswirl was levitated by Twilights chest as I pulled them through town and if word of mouth hadn’t been passed before it sure was now! We stopped quite a few times showing off our bundle of joy, she was quite calm staring out at everyone and everything wide eyed squealing occasionally if only to get our attention wanting a quick nuzzle or a kiss she was a bit wary of 'new' visitors but it seemed she had decided the two beings she met the first time she opened her eyes were ok. We made it home eventually and I half expected Pinkie to be waiting for us with balloons and streamers all over but it was quiet, I opened the door and stuck my head in first I knew Pinkie means well and loves foals but she could be pretty loud too and in her excitement I didn't want her to startle or scare Starswirl. But nothing... I guess word hadn’t reached them yet, no rush.

I scooped up Twi before she could enter Starswirl nestled against her chest as I carried them across the threshold.

"Silly..." She grinned.

Twilight was a bit tired so I placed her gently on the couch holding Starswirl in my arms while I showed her, her new home... Her home forever, the beautiful crib Mac had made, our bed, her sisters room, then back to the main library stopping to visit Mom for a moment. Then the kitchen where I got Twi a glass of water, down to our study in the basement then the washroom and finally back to the living room settling down by Twi.

"Gave her the ten bit tour did you?" She giggled.

"Twenty five at least love." I chuckled.

Just then came a light tap on the door.

"Come in."

Fluttershy popped her head in smiling. "Oh my... Oh my..." She trotted over looking down at Starswirl. "She's beautiful, can... Can I hold her?"

"Of course Fluttershy." I got up giving her my spot on the couch putting Starswirl in her forelegs admittedly she looked very natural holding a foal given her caring and kind nature I suppose I shouldn't have been surprised.

"Where did you hear about her Fluttershy?" Twilight asked.

"Oh, the marketplace is abuzz with gossip about it. I was just doing some shopping when I overheard and I had to rush right over to see if it was true! And I'm so glad I did..." She cooed nuzzling Starswirl gently not surprisingly Starswirl seemed to like Fluttershy immediately. "She’s so precious; she looks just like you Twilight... Oh... She does have your eyes though Rick." She smiled embarrassed.

"You’re a natural mother Fluttershy, your foals will be so happy."

"I... I'd like to but... It'll probably never happen..."

"Fluttershy! Don't talk like that, you could... Well..."

"It's ok Twilight... I'm fine on my own..." She whispered as her eyes darkened.

Starswirl could apparently sense Fluttershys sadness her own eyes getting teary as she began to sob.

"I'm sorry! I'm sorry! Don't cry Star, I'm ok really! Please don't cry!"

Fluttershy wiped her own tears away smiling widely, between her, Twilights and I's reassuring smiles she calmed back down quickly.

"I'm sorry; I didn't mean to make her cry."

"That’s ok Shy; she could tell you were sad and just like us she didn't want you to be... Hmm... Star eh?"

"Oh! I didn't mean to be insulting, it just slipped out! I was just trying to make her feel better!"

"No, Fluttershy I wasn't saying I didn't like it, I do. Star... I love Starswirl but sometimes it’s a bit of a mouthful, it’s a nice nickname don't you think? Shy? Twi?" I asked with a grin.

"Humph, you’re lucky your name is too short to need a nickname..." She smiled and nudged me. "But your right, it does seem to fit nicely."

"I'm so glad you both like it..."

"My little Star and my little Angel... Fitting." I chuckled.

"Oh yes, the girls and Applejack, Rarity and Rainbow Dash will be home tonight right?"

"Yes, it will be a big surprise for all of them..."

"It certainly was for us!" I laughed. "Oh... By the way Fluttershy, have you and Trixie... Talked? Through letters I mean... It's not really my business..."

"No, it's ok. You both should know we’ve sent a few letters back and forth. She's back on tour with Sapphire Shores... I'm still mad but... I think I'll get over it."

"That’s great Fluttershy!"

"I guess... I can forgive her but... I won't... I can't forget. I don't want to seem difficult but I just can't... When you’re in love you should be able to trust your special somepony... Someone, with anything! She's lost my trust and I can't see how she'd ever get it back..."

"That’s fair enough; no one’s going to force you to be with someone who's not right for you. You'll find someone again I know it, anyone who gets to know you will see how special a mare you are."

She blushed and smiled tickling Star. "Thank you Rick, both of you for supporting me. And thank you for not hating me Twilight..." She whispered.

"Fluttershy... Don't you worry about it... But, if you try to seduce my husband again..." She glared at Fluttershy a second before bursting into laughter hugging her tightly. "Kidding!"

We all laughed as there came a sudden and rapid taptaptaptaptap at the door, Twilight sighed with a smile. "Come in Pinkie."

She poked her pink head in and spied Star right away, she seemed torn between screaming, crying and leaping into the air. All combined she simply wobbled into the room trembling excitedly. "To quote Fluttershy... Yay..." She whispered trying very hard it was clear not to startle Starswirl.

"Aww... Come here Pinkie, say hello to Starswirl."

She crept forward looking down at Star in Fluttershys embrace. "She's so... So... Just a moment..." She galloped off down the stairs to the basement closing the door behind her. "Woo Hoo! She's so cute! This is going to be great!" She carried on a few minutes more before coming back up smiling sheepishly at our grins. "Sorry... It's just so exciting! I can't wait for the others to see her! I can't wait to play with her! I can foal sit right? Please! I'm responsible really! Ask the Cakes!"

"We'll see Pinkie, I'm pretty sure it could be arranged... Tonight when the others get back Rick and I have something very important to ask you though..."

"What is it Twilight...?"

"Well duh, they want to ask us to throw a party for Starswirls birth! And I can tell you now the answer will definitely be... YES!"

"Pinkie... Shh..."

"Oh...! Sorry Rick! Sorry Twilight, sorry Starswirl you adorable little ball of fur you..." She giggled.

Star didn't seem very disturbed though more then happy to cuddle against Fluttershy while trying to figure out this new bright and boisterous pony. We visited a bit but both Fluttershy and Pinkie had things to do and had to go before too long but both promised to return later in the evening so we could have everyone here at once.

We did a little housekeeping and got snacks and beverages ready for tonight Star either suspended from my chest in her harness or on Twi's back watching everything wide eyed waving her little hooves around with adorable smiles and baby talk. Almost suppertime and Star was taking a nap when the door suddenly burst open.

"Mom! Dad! I'm hooome!"

Twilight glanced upstairs her ears twitching but then turned right back to Scootaloo with a smile. "I'm so glad your home honey, come and sit we want to hear all about it. Rainbow Dash, Rarity and Applejack aren't with you?"

"No they went home to freshen up they said they'd stop by later to chat..."

"That’s good Angel; I hope you had a good time?"

"I sure did! I've got so much to tell you!"

"Well let me get us all drinks and we'll hear all about it and after we have a bit of a surprise for you too..."

"A surprise?! What is it?"

"It wouldn't be much of a surprise if we told you honey... Sit and let’s hear about your trip..."

We sat and listened to Scootaloo, I would have thought she might have noticed Twilights lack of belly but maybe she was just too excited. She told us how the first night they camped Dash told scary stories and even though she tried to be brave they gave her bad nightmares, she didn't want Dash or anyone else to think she was afraid though so she hid her fear even though she didn't get much sleep and the next night was even worse! Even though she had been through a hard time I was so proud of her for telling us everything, things she would keep hidden from others...

In her nightmare she thought she had seen and talked to Luna which was very possible and I made a mental note to thank Luna for looking out for her I knew she looked out for everyone in the dreamscape but still. Even with Luna’s advice when she woke up she was afraid and panicked running away from the campsite she was afraid of the Headless horse and when she was flying trying to get away she nicked a tree hurting her wing and catapulting her over a ravine! She managed to grab the edge but couldn't hold on! But just when she was about to fall Rainbow Dash swooped down and saved her...!

"After that I broke down and told Dash everything and... She understood! She wasn't mad, disappointed or anything! She was willing to be my mentor, teach me! Even hang out sometimes... It was so great!"

"Just what we hoped would happen honey..."

"Yup! Ok, where’s my surprise?!"

"Okay, close your eyes Angel..."

She squeezed her eyes shut and I went upstairs and gently gathered up my sleepy foal bringing her down and kneeling in front of Scootaloo.

"Okay open them slowly..."

She opened them blinking several times confused then looking back and forth between Twilight and I. "Is that..."

Twilight kissed her cheek with a smile. "Your baby sister, Starswirl... Or Star if you like."

"But... But... When...?"

"Just the other day Angel, I'm so sorry you missed it but she really wanted to be born."

"She's so tiny... Is she ok?"

"You bet honey, healthy as can be. It won't be too long before she'll be up on her own four hooves..."

"Wow... Can... Can I hold her?"

"Sure Angel, just lean back..." I put Star in her forehooves staying close in case she was heavier then she thought but smiling at my two girls together.

"She's so soft..." She smiled nuzzling her gently.

Star yawned opening her eyes and staring quizzically at this new pony, so much smaller then the others. She reached out patting her face with her forehooves as Scootaloo looked to us for advice on what to do.

"She's just saying hi honey..."

"Hi Star... I... I'm your big sister Scootaloo..."

"Gah!" Star squealed happily.

"She... She likes me...?" She whispered her eyes moist.

"Of course she does." I smiled squeezing them both gently.

"So... What’s gonna happen?"

"Nothing honey, nothing changes. Okay... That’s not true, she's going to need lots of care and attention and everyone is going to be making a big deal about her... But even through everything that’s going to happen it won't change anything..."

"We're going to love you and Star so much, I know you’re going to be best friends someday but before then when she grows up a bit she’s going to annoy you and I have no doubt your going to do the same to her but that’s all a part of being family. You'll fight and make up, get mad and love one another but through it all you'll learn what makes one another tick, understand each other. You see?"

"I guess... I... I'll look out for her, that’s what big sisters do right?"

"That’s my filly..."

We spend a little more time letting the two of them get to know one another before Star needed to be fed which Scootaloo tried to look aloof from but a little envious perhaps remembering long ago with her mother... Then a quick diaper change before everyone showed up which she definitely wanted no part of. Dash was the first to arrive.

"Hey guys, heya Squirt want to get a few laps in before everyone gets here?"

"You bet Rainbow Dash!"

She raced outside as Dash smiled to us with a wink before joining her.

"I guess Dash isn't as clueless as I thought..." I chuckled.

"Oh she can be pretty astute when she tries."

The others soon arrived, clearly the news had reached them all as they each came excited and eager to see Star. For her part Star was amazingly calm she got a little fussy here and there being passed to and coo'd over by pony after pony she'd get tired and want to come back to me or Twi. But after a few quiet minutes of cuddling and reassurance she was ready to mingle some more, everyone loved her of course even Dash held her a little bit her tough mare image melted away looking down at the tiny foal.

Sweetie Belle and Applebloom bombarded us with questions which we answered as well as we could everyone else joining in eager to know the details. By the time we were done answering questions it was getting late, Star was asleep nestled on Twilights back while the Crusaders were all flopped down together trying to stay awake but slowly failing.

"Well, we know its getting late but we had a reason beyond you meeting Starswirl for wanting you all to come tonight." Twilight began.

"Oh? Whatcha need?"

"It's not what we need... It's what we want to... Offer?"

"Whatever do you mean Rick?"

"Well Rarity, all of you. I... We, you've been so good to us... And without you, I might have never even met Twilight..."

"What?! That’s crazy; of course you would have met Twilight!"

"Pinkie, I mean when she came here the first time what if she hadn't met you, if you hadn't befriended her and she left again later..."

"Oh I know what you mean Rick, silly. I mean you would have met her no matter where she was! Look at you two; you belong together no matter when no matter how it would have happened."

"Pinkie..." I smiled giving her a big hug. "Thanks, I'd like to think your right..."

"You've made such a huge impact in my life... Now our lives, we love you all and we could never choose between you. We want you all to be godmothers to Starswirl!"

"Godmothers...?" The five of them looked at us for a moment before breaking into smiles. "Yes!"

"Um... Just what does a godmother do?" Pinkie scratched her head looking confused. "Like play with her or take care of her? I mean I would do that already, I want to do that! Or like feed her? I mean I have the equipment I guess but... Ooh! I could drink loads of chocolate milk and then maybe..."

"Pinkie! That’s not what they mean, a godparent is responsible for taking care of the foal in case anything happens to the parents but really that’s a small part of it. It's more like their inviting us to be a part of their family, to look after and look out for Starswirl... And Scootaloo too, you understand?" Rarity explained.

"You bet! I can still drink all the chocolate milk though right?"

Rarity sighed shaking her head then turning to us. "I would be honoured."

"Me too!"

"I would love to... If you’re sure..."

"Yeah I guess I could look out for Star while me an the Squirt are together."

"Shucks Twi an Rick it’s nothin we wouldn't do even if we weren't godparents, but thank ya for askin."

We all embraced a little teary before everyone had to head on home.

I'm glad they agreed.

Never in doubt love. One to go, think we can contact her tonight in the dream?

Worth a try.

We tucked Scootaloo in then cleaned up a bit before heading up to bed. I gently lifted Star into her comfy bed for her first nights sleep at home tucked her in with a kiss from Twilight and I before getting undressed and about to get in bed when we heard a sudden cry.

"Wah!" Just the one though I hurried over to find her staring up at me her forehooves held up.

"I picked her up walking her around a bit until she started getting sleepy again and I laid her back down with another kiss but as soon as I headed to our bed again she cried out. She didn't appear to be hungry and she didn't need to be changed...

"Bring her over here."

I put her down beside her mother and by the time I laid down beside then she was already snuggled up with Twi, she was so adorable I couldn't help but smile. Then and every time I saw her, I reached over to rub her soft chest her little forehooves closing around my wrist again as she dropped off to sleep.

"She'll be fine here between us."

"You bet, sleep tight love, baby."

"Love you and love you." She nuzzled Star gently then we kissed softly and we drifted off.

I awoke to a strange but somewhat familiar feeling lying on a soft bed opening my eyes to a star filled sky.

"Luna!" I sat up and looked around not surprised to find Twilight laying beside me but very surprised to find Star there as well! Awake... Well asleep but aware here gazing up at the sky with her big eyes.

"Luna! So good to see you."

I rolled back over just in time to see Luna soar down with a smile.

"I felt a new soul join the dreaming, not an uncommon occurrence but this time..." She blushed kneeling down as I moved aside so she could be face to face with Star. "She's beautiful... Hello Starswirl Sparkle, I'm your godmother Luna... That is if you still want me to be...?"

"Of course we do Luna!" She lifted Star putting her in Luna’s forehooves, Luna seemed even more at unease then I had the first time I held her almost shaking.

I rubbed her back comfortingly adjusting her forehooves slightly. "Don't worry."

Star looked up at this new face so much bigger then the others but that didn't seem to put her off at all as she smiled reaching up to touch Luna’s nose.

She smiled down at the tiny foal tears flowing. "I... I've seen so many foals grow up and pass on again and again but this... I've never been so... Close, connected... Thank you, thank you both! And you too Starswirl." She nuzzled her softly passing her back to me with a smile. "I'm so glad I met you both, even if someone else had saved me from the nightmare I had become I still pray I would have met the two of you..."

"Oh!" I passed Star to Twi taking one of Luna’s forehooves and kissing it gently. "Thank you for looking out for Scootaloo, all of us really."

She blushed. "What? Oh it was nothing really! Just some advice, I didn't want to leave her distressed as she was."

"Still thank you Luna."

She smiled and shook her head. "You saved me from myself Twilight Sparkle, and you Rick. Reminding me of pain of my past and then showing me I didn't need to dwell on it. Two friends, sleep well my friends I have my responsibilities but I hope to see you soon. I am certain your parents will wish to meet their new grandchild."

"I've written them already and we plan to go as soon as possible but somehow I doubt their going to wait..." Twilight grinned.

"I have no doubt." Luna giggled. "Until we meet again." She kissed Star softly with a smile lifting off as we faded back into our own dreams...

Six godmothers...

Maybe it'll be enough to keep her out of trouble...

Probably not...

Well, baby steps…

Chapter 10 (I wonder, wonder, wonder who...)

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Life goes on, love goes on. Scootaloo remained a bit resistant to her sister but we still included her in everything we could and thankfully Dash kept her distracted showing her tricks and flying tactics even just hanging out in the clouds honestly it made me a bit jealous... She and Dash were bonding nicely but all that, was about to change...

For as long as I'd know her Dash had idolized the Wonderbolts wanting, yearning to join them and live that life she felt was nothing but excitement and glamour with everyone screaming your name. Somehow I doubted it was all just that, I had done a bit of research and the training and conditioning to get into the Wonderbolts was extreme! I had no doubt she could handle it but there was a reason it was so tough. The Wonderbolts were for lack of a better term an elite force of the Equestrian army, normally they simply performed raising spirits while training themselves and new recruits in their off time but if duty called they had to be ready. I wasn't so sure Dash understood their complete duties though she had been idolizing them since she was young so... Either way, she was going to find out.

Her application had been accepted as we all had been so sure it would be with winning the best young fliers competition and everything else she'd done, it was a three month session to start with living and training at the camp weeding out those not capable or suited. We invited everyone over to our place for a small farewell party...

"Congratulations Dash! I knew you could do it..."

"Of course she could! Just look at her! I never had a doubt... Well, maybe a little one..."

"Thanks Rick, you too Pinkie. I just hope I don't let you all down..."

"Don't be silly darling; you've been striving toward this goal your whole life."

"It... It sounds dangerous... You will be careful won't you?"

"It's just training Fluttershy; I have wanted this for so long... But now that it's coming to it... Well, I'm a bit nervous..."

"You? I guess I can understand that. Reaching your goals, even ones you didn't even know you had can be a daunting thing..." Twilight smiled looking over at me Star snuggled in arms smiling and giggling as Pinkie played peek a boo with her. "But it's worth it, trust me."

"Thanks Twilight, I don't think I would have ever made it without you all. Encouraging me, believing in me, helping me be a better pony... Thanks guys..."

"Awww..." The six of them group hugged, I sat on the couch with Star, Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom on either side of me cooing over her while my little Angel sat to the side grumpy about her sister, Dash leaving and probably a few other things.

"Come here Angel..."

"What..." She stomped over.

I picked her up putting her in my lap beside her sister who squealed happily as Scootaloo tried to ignore her. I ruffled her wild mane and kissed her on the cheek. "I know things have been a bit crazy lately with your sister..."

"Humph..."

"And now with Dash leaving, only for awhile though. But she'll have lots of new things to teach you when she comes home..."

"I guess..." Her ears perked up a little.

"And if Dash gets in... Well, when she gets in. You'll have someone in the Wonderbolts you know! And can continue to mentor you until you join..."

She sat up and looked at me her big purple eyes spilling a few tears oblivious to her sister chewing on a piece of her tail she had gotten a hold of. "You... You really think I could join the Wonderbolts someday...?"

I pulled her close removing her tail from Star's mouth as I held my two girls. "If you want to Angel, I know you can do whatever you set your mind to. And I'll do anything I can to help you..."

"Thanks Dad..."

I held up Star. "Give your sister a kiss and go congratulate Dash."

She reluctantly planted one on her sister’s nose smiling when she squealed happily then hopped off the couch with Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom to rush over and congratulate and probably ask Dash a thousand questions.

I sighed and adjusted the squirmy bundle in my lap tickling her and rubbing noses with her before giving her a kiss on the forehead. "You won't leave me will you baby...?" I whispered.

"Gah!" She smiled back waving her forehooves around.

She still didn't have quite enough co-ordination to gain her hooves but she really wanted to. Granted she was only a week old but a pony on Earth would be up and moving around on their own within an hour if not sooner, however that was due to thousands if not hundreds of thousands of years of being prey. Here at least as far as I knew that never happened thankfully.

Within another week according to our books and she would be galloping around like mad on her own and after about a month we would have to start watching out for magic surges as she discovered and slowly learned how to use her abilities. It was going to be a wild ride...
I was pulled back to the present as Star stretched out holding up her forehooves for hugs; she loved to cuddle and hated to be separated from Twilight or myself. That would change I was sure but for now it was nice, she loved her crib with it's soft poofy cloud mattress and beautiful mobile, she'd nap there but she wouldn't sleep there at night refusing to drop off until she was warm and secure between us in our bed. I guess we'd have to wean her off that eventually but for now... For now everything was amazing, surreal, everyday things making breakfast, dinner, supper anything... Everything seemed like a dream, just being with Twilight was amazing enough, throw in these two fillies and I'm the biggest pushover Dad ever...

"Bit for your thoughts..." Came a whisper in my ear as Twilight sat beside me leaning against me and nuzzling Star.

"Just thinking about us... This..." I gestured around. "Everything, I never knew how amazing it could all be. Married to someone I love so much it hurts a rough and tumble adorable daughter and the very light of my life a new foal..." I sighed leaning back holding her. "Not to mention friends and everything else, more then I could have ever asked for or dreamed of..."

"I know, thinking back before I even came to Ponyville I couldn't even comprehend all this... I'd read about marriage and children of course but... It's not the same, not by a long shot. When I came here and met my friends and everything started to change, it scared me at first but I opened up and grew to love it, finally saw what I had been missing... Then along you came, turning everything upside down and topsy turvy again. All my studying... Logical reasoning... Gone. Thank you." She giggled as we kissed.

"Thank you love. And you baby..." I tickled her zubbering her little belly. "Thank you for being our daughter..." I looked over to where Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom were gathered around Dash jumping about excitedly. "And thank you Angel for being a part of our lives..."

"Mmm..." Twilight stretched out against me levitating Star spinning her slowly around us as she squealed excitedly. "Do you think she can handle the training? We all know Rainbow Dash is tough but she's not great at following instructions, let alone orders!"

"If she wants it bad enough she'll adapt and I think she does. That reminds me... Hey Dash."

She pulled herself away from the Crusaders and the party for a moment coming over. "What’s up?"

"Did you tell your parents you got in yet?"

She blushed slightly looking a little embarrassed. "Not yet... I want to make sure I can make it through basic training before I say anything..."

"You'll do fine Rainbow, you know you will."

"Thanks Twilight, I'm confident but I don't want to go into this too cocky..."

"Really? You? I'm surprised by that Dash."

She punched me in the shoulder with a grin. "Thanks for nothing, seriously this is like the biggest opportunity I've ever gotten I don't want to jeopardise it for anything..."

"You’re going to be great Dashie! You'll wow em! You'll dazzle them! You’re amazing...! But you'll be gone for so long... You won't forget about us will you?" Pinkie bounced up excited but ended up morose by the time she finished.

"Forget about the best friends I've ever had? Ever will have?! No chance Pinkie."

"Whew that’s a relief..."

"However... I might get too famous to hang out with you anymore though..."

Pinkies look of complete shock and her dropped jaw were hilarious. "What?! But... But..."

The three of us burst out laughing as Dash grabbed Pinkie in a hug. "Pinkie, we're all best friends forever remember? We always will be what if you become a famous clown like Ponyacci? Will you forget about us?"

"Never!"

"Exactly..."

"Thanks Dashie... Ooh! Hi Star! It's your Auntie Pinkie... Or should that be Godmotherie...?"

"Auntie is fine to call yourself Pinkie, but you are her Godmother and you..." Twilight pointed to Dash with a smile. "And you, and you, and you." She giggled pointing to Rarity, Applejack and Fluttershy. "Has any filly ever been so lucky?"

I gave her a squeeze. "Nope I don't think so."

We all laughed and Star looked at us strangely before giggling herself then letting out a tiny adorable yawn.

"Oh, looks like someone might be ready for a little nap. I'll take her up love."

"Alright, call me if she's hungry."

"Will do." I carried the now heavy lidded foal up to her crib laying her on the super soft mattress; she was still fighting her sleepiness trying to keep her eyes open. I leaned down giving her a soft kiss as I gently rubbed her chest and as she had done the first time and every time after her little forehooves closed around my hand squeezing and holding it tight making me grin like a fool.

I sang to her quietly, a song Fluttershy had taught me. Never failed to ease her into sleep...

Hush now, quiet now, it's time to lay your sleepy head.

Hush now, quiet now, it's time to go to bed...

Hush now, quiet now, it's time to lay sleepy head.

I said, Hush now, Quiet now, it is time to go to bed...

Drifting off to sleep, leave the day behind you.

Drifting off to sleep, let the joy of dreamland find you...

Hush now, quiet now, time to lay your sleepy head.

I said hush now, quiet now; it's time to go to bed...

By the time I finished I had to wipe a few tears away but she was asleep. I pulled my hand away careful not to disturb her and with one last look and smile I headed back downstairs. I always kept my ears open but Twilight could always hear her wake up before me.

Everyone had moved away from the stairs so they wouldn't disturb Star and were involved in a game of pin the tail on the pony, Twilight had the tail levitated in front of her and stumbled forward to plant it on the cut outs nose to everyone’s great amusement,

We played some games, listened to music and danced typical fun party things. Twilight and I were dancing together when her ear twitched. "Oop, feeding time." She smiled.

We excused ourselves heading upstairs, Star was waiting not yet fussy and when she saw us she smiled putting her forehooves up with a squeal wanting to be picked up. I scooped her up giving her a kiss while Twi got comfortable. She was a little ripe too so I laid her down letting her begin nursing as I grabbed a spare diaper, baby oil and talcum powder as well as a few damp cloths for cleaning.

She kicked a little as I cleaned her up but nothing we weren't used to, I got her new diaper on as she focused on feeding staring up at Twilight as she looked down at her misty eyed. I rubbed her side kissing her softly as I finished up.

"It's, it's just so... So... I can't even think of a way to explain it, this bond... Getting stronger everyday, I think I know how you feel now, about Scootaloo growing up so fast and Starswirl will do the same... Still, nothing we can't weather together..."

"That and anything else life throws at us love."

We kissed and heard an exasperated sigh from the stairs that made us both smile, looking over I could see a wild purple mane, a pair of adorable ears and big purple eyes watching us.

"What’s up Angel? Come over here."

"Nuttin... Just bored..." She shuffled over letting me lift her up between us.

"What’s wrong Honey?"

"Well... Rainbow Dash is going to be gone for three months! What if she forgets about me? What if she finds some other filly she likes better?! That she wants to mentor and be like a big sister too...?"

"Angel..." I forget three months can seem like a long time to a young filly or colt. "Dash is going to have a lot of information thrown at her, flight classes and training but she won't forget about you, from what you told us you two really got along well together..."

"Ya... But..."

"No butt’s young filly. Your Dad's right she won't forget us or you. One of these days when she gets back and your training together your going to surprise her, show her just how good you are and she and you are going to know how special having a sibling is... I just hope you and Starswirl will have that someday too..."

"I guess... I mean if Sweetie Belle and Rarity, Apple Bloom and Applejack... Maybe even me and Rainbow Dash... If they can be great sisters I can be too!"

"You sure can Angel, and you will be I have no doubt."

"Thanks Dad thanks Mom."

"Well lets rejoin the party, it's not everyday one of our friends goes to join the Wonderbolts!"

The four of us rejoined the party having a great time until late in the evening, Star was asleep on her mothers back and Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom were fighting to keep their heads up. Dash excused herself needing to get a good night’s sleep if she could before she headed to camp in the morning.

We all said our goodbyes wishing her the best as everyone headed home, I scooped up my sleepy little Angel and we tucked her in she nuzzled her sister once before drifting off. We cleaned up a bit before heading up to be ourselves.

"Should we try to put her in the crib tonight?" Twilight whispered.

"Sure..."

I laid her down covering her with a sheet both of us giving her a kiss before turning out the lights and getting undressed and following Twi into bed. We lay there face to face smiling.

"It was a nice party."

"It was, Dash is going to be a busy mare, but she can handle it."

"Definitely. Rick..."

"What?"

"Do you think I'm still pretty?"

"What?! What brought that up?"

"Well... I've still got some baby weight... And these stretch marks..." She covered her belly the marks barely visible under her fur even if you were looking for them. "I just don't feel... I don't know, maybe I'm just being silly..."

"Twilight..." I wrapped my arms around her pulling her close and kissing her passionately. "It's only been a week, you'll work off that weight or not it doesn't matter to me..." I caressed her body gently, she was still so soft yet firm her scent still made me dizzy. "Your so beautiful love I can't get enough of you... And as for your 'stretch marks', no... Beauty marks, the marks of a mare who bore my child, loves me, holds me, puts up with me..." I grinned.

"You..." She smiled nuzzling my neck. "I know we've been taking it easy so I could recover but..."

My lips found hers in the dark easily and hungrily, she didn't have to ask me twice. We pressed together with need and...

"Waaa!" Just one cry, she rarely let out more then one either because she didn't want to or because we responded too quickly.

"Mmm..." I pulled myself away from Twilight reluctantly with a parting kiss. "To be continued..."

She stretched with a smile and a little pout. "It better be..."

I got up and moved over to the crib carefully in the moonlight to find a bright beautiful pair of brown eyes staring up at me. "Hi baby."

She squealed putting her forehooves up letting me sweep her up and give her a kiss carrying her over to the bed. I sat her down by Twi getting back in bed and pulling the covers over us.

"Still don't want to sleep alone baby? Well I don't blame you there." Twi giggled nuzzling her.

Star lay against her mother my right hand entrapped in her forehooves again gently rubbing her chest as she quickly slipped back to sleep.

"Do you think it's normal for her only to want to sleep with us at night? I couldn't find anything specific about it in any of our books..."

"Relax love; we're really all she knows, you, me and Scootaloo. All the ponies she's been meeting, each one opens up her world a little more but for now... I'm happy to be her world with you and Angel."

"That was beautiful..." We kissed softly getting comfortable. "Goodnight, love you." She nuzzled Star gently. "Love you, sweet dreams..."

"Night Twi, love you. Sleep tight baby..."

Star led us off into sleep warm and cozy together.

The next week passed by quickly Star found her hooves and figured out what they were for, she still could only manage a crawl but she was getting so close! Scootaloo put on a brave face still going out with her friends but she clearly missed having Dash around and despite how we tried not to Star still got the lion’s share of attention around the house, her friends even and really any pony we met...

After dinner one night we sat in the living room Star crawling back and forth between us while Scootaloo sat to the side pretending to read with a disgruntled look.

"Come on baby you can do it..."

"Look at how strong you’re getting Star..."

She'd crawl from one of us to the other and we'd sweep her up giving her hugs, kisses and encouragement before she set out again. After a few trips she stopped about halfway between us I thought maybe she was getting tired. She sat back pushing herself up with her forehooves concentrating so adorably hard as she extended one of her back legs trying to keep balance then the other standing on her own! She took her first step Twilight and I watching proud and amazed...

But one step was all she got before her legs slipped out from under her and she fell, not a cry came from her though and before I could even get up to go to her she was back up trying again, she had her technique down and she was determined to succeed! She pushed herself up again and again each time making it a bit further until my little Angel felt a nudge and moved her book aside to find her sister standing before her smiling.

"Star... You... You walked...?"

"She sure did Honey, right to you."

She flapped her wings a few times a smile springing forth as she hopped up then moved a few feet away crouching down. "Come on sis! Come get me!"

Star squealed happily toddling forward after her while Twilight and I came together holding each other watching them smiling.

The beginning of a life long friendship.

It's so sweet...

For now...

Rick! But your probably right, Armor and I rarely fought but even siblings as close as Applejack and Apple Bloom have disagreements sometimes.

I certainly remember growing up with my three step sisters that we had many, many fights. But as we grew up none of that seemed to matter anymore, we grew out of it I guess... Anyhow they'll always have each other and us.

Absolutely...

A few more days passed Star getting more and more comfortable on her hooves and with Twilight and I and especially her big sister encouraging her I was pretty sure she would be off and galloping before too long.

No word from Dash though and while I could understand how she was probably being run... Or more likely flown off her hooves or wings she could be excused for not writing. Pinkie however...

She was fixated in front of her mailbox waiting and waiting concerned if she left for even a moment a letter might come and if she didn't send one back right away Dash would be heartbroken! Unlikely... But she was so convinced she was right...

"Pinkie, you can't just wait here all day every day!"

"Not all day Twilight, only during mail delivery hours... Wait! What if she gets it special delivered?! It could come at anytime! Your right Twilight I've got to wait here all day!"

"What?! But that’s not what I... Pinkie!"

I was laughing too hard to help, Star in her harness on my chest looked up at me then at Pinkie not understanding but giggled as well... I loved that little giggle...

"Ah'm sure she's just busy Pinkie..."

"Indeed, you know how intense the training must be."

"I guess..."

"I'm sure she would appreciate it if you wrote her..."

"But I did Fluttershy! Six times since she left!"

"That might be a bit much Pinkie..."

"I know Rick... I'm just worried... Wait! Maybe we could make a care package? One from us all, the she won't forget us! And she'll love all the nice stuff we send!"

"Well that’s not a bad idea Pinkie... I recon I could thinka somethin to send."

"Absolutely! Ooh, idea! I could make her the cutest Wonderbolts uniform anyone has ever seen!"

"I... I could send her a heartfelt congratulations..."

"Not a bad idea... I could send her a book on military etiquette!"

Oh Twi... Never change.

"Great! Wait...! What if the package gets lost?! What if it gets delivered to some other pony?! And then they become the next great Wonderbolt?!"

"Pinkie that seems pretty unlikely..." I chuckled.

She zipped right up to me face to face with a frantic look. "But it’s possible?!"

I sighed giving her a comforting hug. "Okay, possible. Really, really, really unlikely. But possible..."

"Well, we can fix that problem..." We all turned to look at Twilight. "It's simple; we just take the care package to her ourselves. We can take a balloon and Rick and I can easily cast the cloud walking spell on us all..."

"That’s a great idea Mom!"

"Sure is Twilight, I knew that big brain of yours would come in handy someday!"

"Gee... Thanks Pinkie..."

"It's a heck of an idea Twi, I'm game."

"I as well, it would be a thrill to see the Wonderbolts training camp."

"I... I guess if you’re sure we wouldn’t be intruding…”

"It'll be fine Fluttershy, lets all get ready then. Meet at the balloon rental place in an hour?"

"Okay!" Everyone agreed heading off to get a few things, we didn't need too much we had a baby bag all ready and Twilight grabbed a copy of the latest Daring Do book which had just recently arrived she was sure Dash hadn’t read it yet.

We got to the balloon rental place and looked through their balloons, they didn't have a huge selection but their largest looked like it had room for us all and then some which was good depending on how much the others brought...

Pinkie brought a dozen of Dash's favourite cupcakes and Applejack a small keg of cider. Fluttershy had a beautifully knit blanket for her and Rarity not having time to make a full costume had a very well made and surprisingly simple cape emblazoned with the Wonderbolts insignia.

"Here Dad."

"Hmm?" Looking down Scootaloo had my medallion and was passing it to me. "That’s yours Angel."

"Nu uh, you just let me wear it, but you should wear it today."

"She's right Rick, we're trying to make a good impression after all."

"Ok, ok. Thanks Angel."

I put it on and we set off, there was a bit of magic put in the balloon so it moved slowly but steadily towards Cloudsdale. Star stood on her mothers back staring out at the scenery so far below squealing and giggling happily as her sister flew out doing figure eights and pinwheels showing off what she'd learned from Dash.

It was quite a long trip and even with Twilight and I trying a few spells to speed us on our way and Fluttershys gentle pushes and Angels not so gentle pushing it still took us half of the day but finally we broke through the cloudbank revealing the far side of Cloudsdale where there was a large floating island that was the location of the Wonderbolts training camp. But Cloudsdale was what we saw first we had been there before of course but still, a massive floating city easily the size of Canterlot maybe even bigger! A thriving Pegasus city where nearly all of Equestria’s weather was created and controlled, beautiful clouds and... What the...?! A large tornado moving fast away from the training grounds right toward us!

"Ahhh!" Was the general consensus, Twilight and Scootaloo clutched me from either side Star was asleep in her harness on my chest. Feeling all three of them so close, their trust in me, relying on me... My mind was clear and I acted instantly and instinctively to protect those I loved. I focused all my magic in a single line ten feet tall and five deep of howling wind though only as thick as a finger and released it hurling toward the approaching tornado dead center. The energy required was immense and I would have fallen to my knees but for the filly and mare holding me up. I kept my eyes focused on the two forces hoping and praying my gambit would pay off, the line I had sent was driven by my magic and will it bisected most of the tornado disrupting its airflow critically interrupting and tearing away its shape and fury. Just that one moment was all it took, my spell collapsed but what little of the twister could not reform or maintain without the momentum it had and fell to pieces dispersing back into the air around it the only thing to reach us was a strong breeze...

Whew...

"Rick!"

"Was that...?"

"Did you...?"

"What the hay?!"

"What just happened...?"

"Relax everyone, it's ok..." I looked down to my sleepy Star, hadn't even stirred. I suddenly found myself clutched from all sides.

"Thank you darling!"

"Thanks Rick! Falling to my death is my fourteenth least favourite way to go!"

I was afraid to ask about the rest... I could feel Fluttershy still trembling holding onto me.

"You would have been ok Shy; you've got your wings."

"They... They don't work so well in stressful situations..."

"That was amazing Dad!"

"Wooow..." Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom echoed.

"Appreciate it pardner, that twister looked nasty."

"I... I froze..."

"No love, I just reacted first. I know you would have saved us."

"I don't know..."

I turned and kissed her with a grin. "I know. I could feel your magic building, me I just reacted..."

"Liar..." She smiled kissing me. "Thanks for trying to make me feel better; I'm so glad you did act..."

"Guys!"

Dash's yell came from over towards the training area, she was flying away from another Pegasus, she had a teal coat and two toned blonde mane and tail. They both looked upset but Dash forced a small smile as she flew over.

"Are you all ok?!"

"Sure Dash, we managed."

"Thank Celestia... I'm sorry... I... we'll talk later, let’s get you landed I've got to go deal with this..."

"But Dashie..."

She landed us on 'solid' ground and took off without another word, we all hoped out eager to stretch our legs after the long ride the cloud walking spells we'd cast would last the whole day so we didn't have to worry about that.

A few of the cadets and a squad leader? Sergeant? I couldn't tell, I should have read up on military insignias... They flew up as I saw Dash of to the side and the Pegasus she had been with arguing.

"Wow, are you all ok?" One of the cadets asked.

"This is restricted airspace! I ought to..." The squad leader barged in before we could answer but stopped suddenly looking at me strangely though I was pretty used to that. "I... I'm very sorry sir, Atten-hut! Knight on deck!" He snapped to attention saluting smartly the cadets following suit.

I smiled returning their salutes. "As you were, we're just here to see our friend Rainbow Dash..." I looked over to where she had been but now both mares were gone. "Well if it's alright with you can we wait for her here?"

"Of course... But, the Captain will want to see you though for a full account of what happened here."

"Fair enough..." I carefully removed Star from her harness giving her sleepy head a kiss before putting her on Twilights back and removing the harness. "I'll be right back everyone." I gave Twi a quick kiss and ruffled my Angels mane. "Maybe you can ask the cadets here a little about what their learning?"

"Can we?!" Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom excitedly asked.

"Sure, sure... Just mind the edges..." He nodded leading me off clearly still a bit confused about how we could even be here. He led me to the largest building on the island inside was a meeting area signs pointing off to the barracks and mess hall, up on the smaller second floor there were the officer barracks and another meeting room beyond that was an office that he led me up to the door shut.

"She must be in a meeting..."

"No problem, I'll just wait here then."

"Okay... Um, sir..." He saluted awkwardly backing away.

I saluted back leaning against the wall to wait I could hear a heated conversation from within."

"... If that’s what it takes to be a Wonderbolt count me out!"

"What are you saying...?"

"I quit!"

The door bust open and slammed shut a moment later as a distraught Dash marched out.

"Dash...?"

"Rick!"

"What did you...?"

"I don't want to talk about it right now... Your here to see the Captain... I mean Spitfire?"

"Yeah, I'm supposed to give my take on what happened outside I guess..."

"Right... Sorry again about that I... We'll talk later, the Cap... Spitfire is probably in a bad mood now too, sorry again..."

"I'll manage Dash, go see everyone we came here to see you after all."

"Ok!" She darted to the stairs looking back once with regret as I turned to knock at the door.

"Come." I opened the door to find Spitfire captain of the Wonderbolts and apparently in charge of the training camp as well, I'd never met her personally but being friends with Dash not to mention my Angel I'd heard plenty about her. "How dare you storm out of here cadet before I... Oh! What are you doing here?" She looked at me suspiciously smiling slightly and nodding when she spied my medallion. "I see... Well don't expect any special treatment here because of your rank."

"I wouldn't dream of it." I smiled saluting her.

She smiled back returning it. "So tell me what happened, I've heard Rainbow Dash's side of the story..."

"I hope you’re not going to accept her resignation?"

"She's an amazingly talented flyer but there are always some of those... She has something else... I'm not letting her go without a fight but the decision is ultimately hers..."

"I understand..." I explained the situation to her, how we came to visit Dash and the near disaster that followed. I kept it plain and simple trying not to make a big deal of it but her eyes narrowed when I mentioned the three young fillies and newborn foal in the basket with us.

"I'm glad you were able to diffuse the situation, if anyone had been hurt..." She sighed. "Honestly, I'm at a loss..."

"If you don't mind I'd like to hear about what’s gone on, if that’s possible..."

"Well... It couldn't hurt to have another option, and after all I've heard plenty about you Sir Sparkle..."

"Oh?"

"I do report directly to Princess Celestia after all and Princess Luna of course." She smirked. "Here’s what I know from my observations and hearing from my trainers..."

The situation was straightforward yet still complicated, out of their class Dash and this Lightning Dust were far and away the most promising cadets. The others had skills too naturally or they wouldn't even be here.

Rainbow Dash had a drive to win and honestly was a bit of a show off but also she had a thoughtful side to her and though she'd never admit it compassion for others and of course her strongest feature her unwavering loyalty...

Lightning Dust followed very closely along those lines but her drive to be the best overrode everything else, at first Spitfire thought her drive and skill was all she would need, she turned a blind eye to everything but the results. A mistake she admitted…

It was easy to see by the pile of paperwork on her desk and in her outbox that she took on a lot in this job, you can't be everywhere and I told her as such.

Dust and Dash kept impressing her though as a team they seemed unstoppable and she hadn’t heard any complaints, a few comments from her instructors about their being a bit of a hazard to the other cadets during some of the training but no major injuries and it was important for the cadets to get a few knocks here and there.

So it comes down to it, let Dash go and lose an extremely promising recruit? She wasn't willing to do that and she knew Dash was in the right. And Lightning Dust had broken regulations nearly causing harm to civilians in her quest to be the best, expulsion would be necessary...

"Now wait..." I interrupted; we had been going back and forth for about an hour going over the details. "This mare Lightning Dust has promise didn't you say?"

"Of course! She's highly skilled but..."

"It would be a waste to turn her away, she made some mistakes we all do but with some direct instruction and guidance from... You? No, you’re far too busy. Dash? No, she's likely to harbour some resentment for her coming to you..."

"I know just the pony..." She interrupted. "She'll still have to be punished of course, stripped of her rank but I think this will work out for the best... Thank you for helping me think of it."

"Glad to be of assistance, who did you have in mind? If I may ask?"

She smirked. "Soarin." She chuckled at my questioning look. "Don't let his reputation confuse you, he does play the none too bright flying ace quite well doesn't he? An act, which I know we can keep between us..."

"Yes of course."

"His calm and insightful nature will be just what Lightning Dust needs... And naturally he is one of the best flyers in the Wonderbolts he will be an excellent influence on her. He won't thank me for the assignment but he does owe me more then a few."

"And Dash?"

"Rainbow Dash... Well, come along and you'll see..."

We exited her office and made our way down to where everyone was waiting, there was a small group of cadets and a few instructors surrounding them Lightning Dust was standing aside an annoyed look on her face I imagine Dash had given her a bit of a telling off... The crowd parted slightly and a little foal came galloping my way, she was a little unsteady on the soft ground but I swept her up before she could fall.

"Heya baby missed you..." I whispered giving her a kiss and hug.

"And who's this?"

"Oh, sorry Captain..."

"Just Spitfire is fine Sir Sparkle..."

"Then it's just Rick please, this is Twilight and I's daughter, Starswirl."

"Really? I'm heard some rumours, intriguing... She's adorable." She smiled.

"And over there arguing with Dash right now is our adopted daughter Scootaloo..." I leaned over whispering. "Future Wonderbolt..." I grinned.

"We'll see about that." She smirked immediately getting serious as the crowd split seeing her approach. "Cadet Rainbow Dash! Front and center!"

Dash hesitated a moment but came over squaring herself before Spitfire. "Yes ma'am?"

"What you said in my office was correct; we always want to strive to be the best! But. Never at the expense of our fellow ponies, Pegasus, Unicorn or Earth! I want you all to understand that fully! Do you get me?!"

"Yes ma'am!" Everyone shot to attention.

"Lightning Dust! Front and center!"

She warily came up to stand by Dash. "Y... Yes ma'am...?"

"You are hereby relieved of your lead pony status. Your pips." She put out her forehoof and Dust removed them giving them to her, she immediately turned affixing them to Dash's uniform. "You Rainbow Dash didn't need to learn this lesson, you are no wingpony you are a lead pony! That is... If you’re willing to reconsider your resignation..."

Dash grinned widely then remembered herself sobered up saluting smartly. "Yes ma'am!"

"As you were cadet!"

Dash stepped back and was immediately surrounded by her friends and fellow cadets congratulating her.

"Lightning Dust."

"Ma'am...?"

"You and Rainbow Dash are no longer a team; you will receive your new orders in the morning."

"You mean... I... I can stay?"

Spitfires stony look softened a bit. "Your here to learn cadet, you've got promise but you have to bend sometimes. Or you'll break. Don't let me down again."

"Yes ma’am!"

"You may all consider yourselves at liberty for the rest of the day! Tomorrow we train twice as hard! Dismissed!"

"Yes ma’am!"

Spitfire nodded to me then flew off with a few of her officers leaving me momentarily alone with Dust.

"You... You were on that balloon... Who, what are you...?"

"No one important, just a human. Make the best of this second chance, there might not be a third..."

"Wait... Please, I'm sorry... I didn't know you and your family would be there, I was just trying..."

"To be the best? I've heard Dash say that a thousand times, but it's all how you go about it... No hard feelings right Star?"

"Gah!" She smiled snuggled in my arms.

"Thank you, sir." Dust smiled wanly backing away; she saluted then turned and left.

"Sooo... Pulling some strings for me were ya Rick?" Dash grinned leaning against me.

"Hardly, your own integrity spoke for itself. But I'm glad you reconsidered..."

"It's my dream... And even with the few problems it's been amazing!"

I walked back to the group with her. "Well we've got a few gifts for you why don't you check them out and tell us all about it, lead pony..."

Interlude: A day like any other...

View Online

The morning after we got back from the acadamy I was awoken with a whisper in my ear.

"Morning, happy birthday my love..." Followed by a nibble on my ear.

"Mmm..." I opened my eyes to the most beautiful mare in the world, I leaned over kissing her softly several times. "Morning love, thanks." I stretched, looking over I found a tray by the bed laden with fruit and pancakes, remembering I looked between us then over to Star's crib.

"Fluttershy is taking Star, Scootaloo and the girls on a hike and picnic today. They won't be back until supper... A part of her gift to you." She smiled.

"Oh really...? House to ourselves for hours and hours whatever shall we do...?" I grinned caressing her.

"Well, I can think of a few things..."

Our lips met hungrily and we spoke no more for awhile...

We lay together in the wreck of our bed an hour or so later feeding each other by hand / hoof.

"This is nice, just the two of us..."

"Just like the old days..."

I laughed. "Not so long ago love; it's been quite a ride... Wouldn’t change a thing."

"Me either..."

We kissed and cuddled a bit more basking in each others warmth and love.

"Love...?"

"What?"

"We've been trying to get a moment alone for awhile now and now that we are..." I sighed with a wry grin. "I miss them."

She giggled snuggling closer. "They are as big a part of our lives as we are theirs its only natural we would be missing them. But today is your day, what do you want to do...?"

I thought about it a bit then smiled whispering in her ear.

"What?! But we do that all the time..."

"Well I didn't say that was all we'd do..." I chuckled nibbling her ear.

"There is that..."

We finished eating then shared a leisurely shower together.

"You go wait for me downstairs..." She smiled slyly.

"Can't wait..."

I went down to our study area, moved a few books around then sat and waited but not for long. She came down dressed like this! Sexy librarian... I admit one of my fetishes and even more so one who's not even trying, not even aware of how badly she's turning me on...

Wearing one of my ties and shirts and her glasses she didn't even need when I had asked her about them she simply replied 'It's important to keep up appearances and seventy three percent of all ponies feel that librarians should wear glasses.'

I just shook my head and kissed her, by this point Twi knew very well the effect she had on me though she still didn't understand why... Didn't really matter, all that mattered right now was her and I.

We played around a little, I pretended to be an everyday library patron just pretending to read as I observed her as she catalogued, indexed and sorted books... And bent over to pick them up... Definitely picking them up, I may have nudged a book or two off the shelves. She teased me by ignoring me until I couldn't take it any more.

I walked over to her with a few books. "Excuse me miss...?"

"Yes?" She turned smiling and batting her eyes.

"I'm afraid these books are overdue..."

"Are they? Well let me see... 'The illustrated mare'?" She raised her eyebrow with a sly smile. "And…‘Bonk: The Curious coupling of Science & Sex'?" She giggled. "And last... 'Sex: An Oral History'? One of my favourites... My, my you are a naughty boy aren't you?"

"Well..."

"That'll be a twenty bit fine I'm afraid."

I turned my pockets inside out with an innocent look. "I'm sorry I don't have any bits at all!"

"Really? Well that’s no good... But I think I can think of something you can do to pay it back." She smiled leaning closer.

"I'll do whatever you need..." I leaned in closer as well both of us gazing into each others eyes our lips inches apart.

"Well to start maybe you could..."

"Yes...?"

"I mean if you’re 'up' to the task..."

"Anything..."

She sat back suddenly with a wicked grin. "These shelves need a good dusting! And the books too, but be sure to keep them in order mind you." She admonished turning her back with a sexy sway of her hips.

"Oh come on!" I begged reaching out letting her long thick tail slip through my fingers sending a shiver up her back.

She froze the last half inch of her tail still in my hand I could see her trembling slightly, I slid over pulling her onto me holding her close and kissing her neck. "What is it love?"

"N... Nothing..." She turned to face me tears falling from her beautiful eyes but smiling. "Just memories... The first time you held me on our way back from Zecora's and I felt you... Your heartbeat... Your scent and... I didn't know what was happening... The strange feelings you stirred..." She laid down by me her head on my chest as I caressed her ears and neck running my fingers through her mane.

"This world... This dimension is amazing and beautiful but even if I searched a thousand years through ten thousand just like it I would never find someone like you... I love you Twilight, so much, so badly. I want to be with you, have and hold you until the day I die."

"Oh...!" She gasped. "You will, we will...” We kissed softly. "I know we will be side by side no matter what! I love you so much Rick! Never let anything come between us; never let me drive you away!"

We kissed again and again our passion growing. "Never..."

We held each other tightly on the study room floor afterwards, exhausted but buoyed by our love.

"You remembered to use the protective spell right love?"

She snuggled against me with a giggle. "You better believe it."

We both laughed Star and Scootaloo were two of the best things in our lives but for now they were more then enough...

"Mmm... It's getting late, we'd better get ready. Fluttershy and the girls will be home soon..."

"Already? Time flies... I could stay like this forever..."

We kissed softly. "Me too..."

After a few more minutes we got up, cleaned up and freshened ourselves up just in time as Scootaloo and Star burst in the door galloping over.

"Dad!"

I let them bowl me over hugging and kissing my two girls.

"Happy birthday daddy..." Scootaloo whispered.

"Thank you Angel and you too baby. How was your day with Fluttershy?"

"A lot of fun! We went out and had a picnic then we played hide and seek, then I showed them some of the tricks Rainbow Dash taught me!"

"That’s great."

"What did you and mom do all day?"

"Oh! You know... Slept in, did some reading... Just lazy day stuff..."

"Boring... But we're going out for dinner right?!"

I looked over to Twi and she smiled. "That was a bit of a secret honey but yes. So let’s get you two cleaned up so we can go!" She declared sweeping up Star taking her over to the sink for a quick wash as I coerced my reluctant filly to the washroom, like pretty much any young filly or colt she wasn't too concerned with regular grooming.

I washed her gently with a cloth tickling and teasing her a bit as I did. "There’s a spot, there’s a spot, ooh that’s a big one! She's more dirt then Pegasus!"

"Daad!" She paused a moment her ears going down. "I'm sorry I didn't get you anything... I spent my allowance on comics..."

I laughed scooping her up and giving her a bear hug then kissing her on the nose. "That's ok Angel, just being here, having you for a daughter not to mention Star and Twilight is all the gift I'll ever need... But you young filly have a very important day coming up too... Nine! You’re not allowed to grow up so fast! So what would you like for your birthday? I know your mom has some ideas but what about you?"

"Well..."

"Whatever you want, well that I can actually give you..."

"Maybe... Just a day...?"

"A day...?"

"Just you and me... I mean, we don't have to do anything special. I just... I love mom and Star but lately... It just seems your busy a lot. With Star, with mom... Just busy... I..."

"Angel..." I hugged her again holding her close. "You got it, but you don't have to make that your birthday wish. I shouldn't... I'm sorry Angel I just get caught up with everything..."

"Its ok dad, I know it's a big deal and watching you with Star... Kinda makes me jealous, I wish I had that when I was little..."

I gave her another squeeze. "I know... So you got it. You and me Angel."

"Thanks dad!"

"Alright let’s go to dinner..."

Turns out that was easier said then done. First they led me into town doing a bit of visiting with seemingly random ponies, plenty of birthday wishes then the blindfold again as they led me in a zig zag and confusing pattern, not that they needed to bother as I was completely lost and turned around. After around ten minutes we came to a stop.

"Ready?" Twi whispered in my ear.

"You bet..."

She pulled the blindfold off and I blinked several times to clear my vision and then again in surprise. Our living room? Streamers and balloons all about and I knew what came next...

"Surprise!"

Everyone was there, Pinkie, Applejack, Big Mac and Inkie even Granny Smith! Rarity, Rainbow Dash (She was lucky enough to get a day pass) and Fluttershy. Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle but surprisingly Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon too.

"Thank you all... It means so much to me that you’re all here, here for me, Twilight, Scootaloo and Star. And each other..." I shook my head with a wry smile. "Enough about that lets party!"

Star didn't understand what was going on but she did understand there were plenty of ponies to play with and that was good enough for her, we partied well into the late evening, everyone had a simple gift for me little things but from the heart and that's what mattered. I didn't need things, I had Twi, Scootaloo and Star, good friends and if I was lucky five hundred years in this amazing world...

What more could anyone ask…?

Chapter 11 (While the Apples are away...)

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The big Apple family reunion was coming up, in two weeks Sweet Apple acres would be filled by ponies from all over Equestria and for an entire week they would do... Well I had no idea what they did for fun, barn raising, hootenannies? At any rate we wouldn't be seeing much of Applejack though she made it clear we were all welcome to drop by anytime. We had plans of our own though.

It would be one month since Stars birth and high time she met her Grandparents, her aunt and uncle too but that would have to wait the Crystal Empire was quite a bit further away then Canterlot. They knew of Stars birth of course, Twilight had sent quite a few letters to her parents as well as Armor and Cadence. Star was growing slowly but everyday it seemed she galloped a little further wanted to play just that little bit more, she hadn’t spoken yet other then an impressive and adorable retinue of baby talk. Still wouldn't sleep in her crib at night, alone time was nigh impossible to get but I suppose that was to be expected, I could wait they weren't turning blue again quite yet...

Her sister, Scootaloo my little Angel, at first as Star learned to walk then gallop she was so excited encouraging and helping her get stronger and more stable on her hooves. But she learned that sisterly love has a price... Star adored her sister wanting to do everything she did and go everywhere she went, Scootaloo got tired of that pretty quickly... Still every moment they did spend together I could see that bond forming, made me smile, made me proud. From the simplest things like giving sharing her last few candies with her sister to the two of them curled up together napping after a long day...

Three days after my birthday and it was past time for Scootaloo to get something we promised her. The four of us went for a walk on the pretext of a picnic; we wandered through the fields outside of Ponyville eventually leading us to Fluttershy’s cottage.

"Well this looks like a good place to have a picnic." I waved to Fluttershy who was waiting for us as we walked up.

"Ooh I'm so excited..." Her eyes went wide as she covered her mouth. "I mean, it's just so nice to see you all..." She swept up Star as she came galloping to her. "Come and sit down."

We spread out our blanket and all settled down.

"Honey, we have an alternate reason for bringing you here today..."

Scootaloo gasped sitting up excited. "You mean?!"

"You bet Angel, Fluttershy has agreed to help you find the perfect pet."

"Yay!" She leapt up hugging and kissing us both then jumping on Fluttershy. "Can we start now? Please? Pleasepleaseplease!!!"

"Of course we can sweetie, what kind of animal do you think you would like to be your lifetime friend...?"

They traveled out of earshot headed behind the cottage where most of Fluttershy’s animal friends lived; we had decided to leave the decision completely in her hooves. Whatever she decided on... Well we hoped Fluttershy wouldn't let her go too nuts.

We sat and enjoyed a few bits of our picnic saving most of it for when Scootaloo and Shy came back, Angel bunny and a few of Fluttershy's friends came over looking for treats and curious about Star. She was fascinated by them trying to touch them repeatedly though they ran away every time. I could see she was getting a bit frustrated so I motioned Angel bunny over.

"Come on Angel she won't hurt you, and you owe me."

He stuck out his tongue and hopped back a step as I sighed.

"Fine, fine... How about for this?" I pulled a big beautiful carrot out of our basket offering it to him. His eyes lit up and he hopped forward reaching out as I pulled it away. "I'm no fool bunny, cuddles first then carrot."

He glared at me then rolled his eyes trudging over to Star as she sat watching the other critters forlornly and tapped on her side, she looked over and squealed in delight hugging him tight, pulling his ears and stroking his fur. He bore it stoically though maybe even enjoying it a little but he was still more then eager to grab his carrot and hop away with it when she got tired and curled up against her mother for a nap.

"Thanks buddy."

"So sweet..." Twi giggled.

"I suppose he can be when he tries love; Fluttershy must keep him around for something..." That got me a dirty look from him that made us both laugh.

We sat for another half hour or so talking about little things idly stroking Star as she slept. Fluttershy and Scootaloo came back around the cottage both grinning like the cat that ate the canary... Maybe that’s the wrong analogy for this place... They both looked mischievous lets say that.

"Did you find something honey?"

She nodded still grinning.

"Well don’t keep us in suspense Angel..."

"Nu uh! Guess!"

We both looked to Fluttershy but she kept her mouth shut probably worried she would give it away.

"Okay... Is it...? A kitten?" Twi guessed first.

"Nope!"

I thought a moment, she would probably want an animal that could fly and was fast like her... "Hmm... Is it a sparrow?"

"Not even close." So much for that idea...

"It's not a snake is it?!"

"No mom, I know you don't like snakes."

"I don't know why Twilight their adorable! Their scales are so smooth and the way their tongues flick out is so cute!"

Twilight was pressed up against me looking at Fluttershy like she was crazy. "That’s enough Shy... Angel, I don't think we'll ever be able to guess and you know it. So let’s see... Please?"

"Aww... No fun." But her grin stayed the same. "You really never would have guessed... At first I wanted a tortoise like Rainbow Dash! But Fluttershy only has a few turtle friends and they weren't interested in being anyone’s pet. But that’s ok I want to be like Rainbow Dash but not just copy her!"

"Good for you honey."

"Then we looked at the birds and other flyers, there were so many! And they were all amazing! Hawks, owls, bats even an eagle nearly as big as me! But I couldn't decide! We took a break down below as Fluttershy told me all about some of her friends, there were plenty of her earthbound friends eager to be someone’s pet too and I met a lot of them that didn't make my decision any easier either!"

The three of us chuckled at that and I noticed something, a small pink nose poked out of my Angels mane sniffing around before popping back in. Whatever was hiding in there couldn't be too big as she didn't have a very long mane...

"Squirrels, dogs, cats, birds, lizards, seals, penguins!!! Too many choices! I just couldn't decide and I sank down covering my head trying to think and after a minute I felt something sniffing, tickling my nose and licking me! I opened my eyes and found him!"

"Who?" We both asked.

"His name is Pandora... Or just Pan for short, his animal name is much more interesting though... Seeks the answers no one can see through the world’s breeze. I wasn't sure he was the right pet for a young filly like Scootaloo but..."

"He's special!" Scootaloo giggled as something moved around in her mane tickling her.

"He certainly is... You know I love to help and take care of my animal friends but some of them don't need me at all... Their... Different, special. Angel bunny is one, Tank as well. He choose Scootaloo, wants to be her life long friend, I can't say no to him or her..." She smiled and nuzzled Scootaloo.

"Thanks Fluttershy! Okay close your eyes and hold out your hooves... Well you know what I mean dad."

We both did as she asked and after a moment I could hear a quiet sniffing then Twilight giggled then I felt my own hands being sniffed then tiny licks...

"Okay open em!"

I was surprised opening my eyes to find him, a small ferret though his coloring was quite unusual. Nearly pure white but with grey almost silver ears, paws and the tip of his tail. His eyes were what surprised me the most though pale, pale blue. Looking a little closer they almost seemed translucent...

"Fluttershy is he...?"

"Blind? Yes, but don't hold that against him. He’s always been like that and it's never slowed him down one bit!"

I stroked his soft fur gently. "Well Pan, if you've chosen her and she you I suppose we should accept that. Right love?"

"Absolutely, he's beautiful. But are you sure honey? He can't fly after all..."

"That’s ok! He can ride on me!" She must have read my mind as she interrupted me just as I was about to speak up. "I'll be careful!"

"Heh... So Pan, are you going to take good care of my little filly?"

His ears twitched and he took off like a shot in a zig zag pattern jumping onto Fluttershy scurrying over her making her giggle before leaping off her onto Scootaloo climbing over her finally perching atop her head leaning down to give her a nose a lick.

Scootaloo giggled and smiled. "That means yes I think."

"Well then welcome to the family Pan." Twilight smiled.

"Come on Pan! Come meet my sister Star!" She excitedly galloped over putting Pan in front of Star who was just waking up. She blinked a few times at the strange creature before her reaching out to touch him gently with her forehoof he sniffed her cautiously before giving her a lick. She squealed excitedly grabbing him in a hug.

"Careful Star!"

"Oh don't worry Scootaloo, ferrets are much tougher then their small stature might indicate... Just like you!" Fluttershy giggled.

We spent the rest of the afternoon getting to know him and he us; Fluttershy had plenty to teach us about ferrets as well. Being a carnivore he needed meat but there were a few places to buy special food for him, fish too was acceptable and he could and did hunt as well using his keen smell and hearing to 'ferret' out bugs and small rodents also liking bird eggs, I expected Shy to be a bit more... Reserved I guess talking about animals preying on one another. But I should have known talking about nature in any form even the parts she might not care for and she lit up.

The more we learned about him the more he seemed to be the perfect pet for my little Angel; they loved to play and had boundless energy when they were awake. Furthermore they slept a great deal so when she was ready to play after a long school day he would be too or more then content to curl up with her during the quiet times too. Fluttershy warned us he would probably bump into things a lot when we first got him home but after a few days he would memorize the layout and with his sharp ears and nose he would find his way around with no problem.

So late in the afternoon with some food and treats Fluttershy gave us we bid her farewell tears in her eyes sad to see one of her friends go but happy he was going to a good home where he would be loved. We traveled through town Pan proudly riding on Scootaloo's back sniffing the air excitedly while Scootaloo wasted no opportunity to show off her new pet to anyone and everyone!

We finally made it home and let him down at the doorway letting him sniff around moving his way inside, Star and Scootaloo followed him as he raced across the library both of them fascinated by him while we put away his food and treats then looked around the library for places and things Fluttershy warned us a ferret might get into they were apparently very curious creatures. Pan was a special ferret though so either we had less to worry about... Or more...

Either way there was no need to worry about it tonight, Scootaloo curled up in her bed with Pan snuggled up against her neck. Twilight and I in our bed with Star between us.

Another member of the Sparkle family...

Ever since Scootaloo mentioned her birthday wish to me I had been making plans, she said she didn't need anything special but... Well I had a few surprises for her. Pan didn't count of course we had promised her a pet long before but it was heartening to see they play and get to know one another, Star too naturally.

Two days before her birthday I decided not wanting to crowd in on her special day, I shared all my plans with Twi of course and she thought it was adorable, she wished she could be there to see it but she assured me she, Star and Pan would have a fun time too. I kept everything a secret until that morning...

After making breakfast I scooped her up giving her a hug. "Hey Angel, feel like going for a walk?"

"Sure!" We headed towards the door when she looked back. "Aren't mom and Star coming?"

Star came galloping up hearing her name with Twi behind her.

"I think Star and I will just stay home today... Just you and your dad." She smiled.

She looked up at me excitedly. "Really?!"

I feigned an innocent look. "What? We’re just going for a walk..."

"Uh huh..."

"See you later love." I gave Twi a kiss then picked up Star giving her a hug and a kiss as well. "You too baby..."

"Bye mom! Bye Star!"

Star clearly wanted to follow us but Twilight levitated her up as she waved goodbye to us. We walked around town a little bit buying a few little snacks but I had grander plans and eventually steered over near the train station.

"What say we go for a little train ride Angel?"

"Really?! Where?"

"Oh just a little place I heard of..."

"Ok!"

We waited a short while for the train she tried to squeeze some information out of me in the meantime but I kept quiet not wanting to give anything away yet. We boarded the train tickets pre-purchased well ahead of time, we found out seats and I offered her the window seat but she declined with a grin. As soon as the train got underway she crawled onto my lap nuzzling close.

"Thank you..." She whispered.

I gave her a squeeze rubbing her neck. "I love you Angel, I'll try harder to..."

"That’s ok dad." She interrupted. “I’m ok, so lucky you and Twilight took me in, made me your daughter…” She sniffed her eyes teary.

I kissed her forehead. "Oh Angel... You've made our lives so rich, so amazing... We all complete one another, you, me, Twilight and Star altogether we love and support one another no matter what..."

"And Pan!"

I chuckled. "Yes him too."

"Right!" She snuggled closer leaning up to kiss my cheek before looking out the window. "Love you dad."

"Love you..."

We cuddled together for the short trip just a few hours to the small city of Trottingham...

We disembarked garnering more then a few stares, a school age Pegasus filly... Not so uncommon, and a strange furless ape like creature well... Still no one made any issue about it thankfully and the mood around town seemed particularly upbeat. I knew why but someone was still in the dark...

"Where are we?"

"This is Trottingham."

"Trottingham...? Oh! I know! This is where Pip is from!"

"I didn’t know that, I wonder why they moved to Ponyville?"

"Dunno, so why are... We... Here..." She trailed off her gaze moving skyward as a Pegasus flew by at roof level wearing a very familiar blue and gold uniform. "The Wonderbolts?!"

"Really?" I peered after the Pegasus. "What a coincidence, if only we had some tickets for their show..." I teased pulling my hand out of my pocket with two tickets held in it."

"Really?! Thankyouthankyouthankyou!!!" She squealed peppering me with kisses before remembering herself blushing. "Thanks dad."

"Don't you ever worry about it Angel." I smiled pulling her out of the air and putting her on my shoulders. Let’s go get some snacks and find our seats."

"Yeah!"

We got a big bag of popcorn and some drinks and made our way to our seats, not front row or anything though I did toy with the idea. Instead I got our seats at the very top of the grandstands, a bit further back from the action but with a great view of everything and with Scootaloo's excellent vision and me not having to worry about me blocking any ponies view I figured these were the best choice.

The show was fantastic, the aerial tricks and maneuvers they could do put even Rainbow Dash to shame if only because of the precise teamwork involved but Dash would make it there soon enough I was sure. Time flew and before too long the show was over though amazingly it had been three hours of non-stop excitement, after a quick bathroom break we waited in a very long line so she could get some autographs from Fleetfoot, Rapidfire, Blaze and a few lesser known members. They signed a picture for her then we stood aside as she looked it over excitedly blowing on them to dry the ink so it wouldn't smear even a bit when we heard a familiar voice from above.

"Rick! Squirt! What’re you two doing here? Did Twilight let you off the leash?" Dash grinned swooping down to nudge me in the shoulder.

"Funny Dash, what about you? We didn't get to see you fly?"

"Nah, we cadets aren’t ready yet... Well, most of them at least." She laughed. "We're just here to set up and provide support, but it's still pretty cool."

"It was an amazing show Rainbow Dash!"

"Thanks squirt, hey! I've only got another ten minutes or so of cleanup duty till my shifts over, you want to hang out and I'll show you around!"

Scootaloo's wings flapped excitedly as she looked up at me, I smiled and nodded and she took a step forward then stopped backing up beside me and leaning against me.

"Thanks Rainbow Dash but... It's just me and dad today, maybe next time ok?"

"Angel..."

"Well if your sure squirt."

"Yup!"

Dash leaned over to whisper. "Like I said you've got this dad thing down." She lifted off smiling to us. "See you both later then; give my love to everyone back home!" And she was off.

I knelt down to hug my little Angel. "You didn't have to do that, you could have..."

"Nope!" She nuzzled against me. "You and me dad."

"You and me... Well it's getting late, should we rush off to the train station or have some supper and stay the night?"

"We can stay?!"

"Well, I might have anticipated us having a long and fun day and booked us a room beforehand." And even if she wanted to go home I was sure with all the extra traffic for the show they would have no trouble filling it if we didn't stay.

"Let's stay! Oh, will mom and Star be ok?"

"Of course Angel, let’s get some supper."

We checked into the hotel and despite a few odd looks confirmed my reservation then went to the adjoining restaurant and had a nice meal before looking around town a bit more before heading back for the night. We just had a simple room, a small balcony with a nice view a small washroom and shower and a single bed. I had hoped for a bit bigger of a bed but I could make do on the floor easily enough.

"Wow look at that! The stars aren't as bright here dad, why?"

"It's not that their not as bright, it's just that this city is quite a bit bigger then Ponyville and all the streetlights make it harder to see them."

"Oh? It's a nice city but there’s a lot of ponies here and they all keep staring at you!”

I laughed. "Well you did your fair share of staring when we first met Angel, as I recall you, Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle were worried I'd eat you!"

"Yeah... I guess... It just bugs me.”

"It's ok; I've found most ponies will give you a chance if you let them."

"Yeah." She hopped onto the bed bouncing a few times.

"Not so fast you little rapscallion, wash up before bed."

"Aww... It's not even my bed."

I chuckled and followed her into the washroom. "Nevertheless..." We cleaned up; I had forgotten toothbrushes so I'd have to let that slide but no biggie. We used the washroom separately then get ready for bed.

"Dad, you're not going to sleep on the floor."

"It's a pretty small bed Angel..."

"It's big enough."

"Ok, ok."

We snuggled up together just enough room for the two of us with her laid half across me. I squeezed her tight stroking her wild mane.

"Thanks again dad, it was great."

"Anytime Angel, if I ever get to busy and it seems I'm ignoring you just give me a kick in the butt and remind me."

She giggled. Ok. Dad...?"

"What?"

"Tell me about your world."

A subject that hadn't come up too much with her, Twilight? Oh yeah but not her. "Well, in my world humans are everywhere, as numerous as you think ponies are humans put that to shame. Lets see... Fifty million years ago..." I certainly don't claim to know much about human history but I knew bits and pieces and I could make a few things up but before I got past the age of dinosaurs I could feel her breathing slow and her head come to rest against my chest. I put my arm over her closing my eyes and letting her steady breathing and heartbeat lull me to sleep. "Sleep tight Angel..."

The cool breeze from the window and morning noise from below woke me a bit early; I just lay there not bothering to open my eyes enjoying the warm bundle of fur and feathers resting against me. My love and beautiful foal at home and a sweet little Angel here with me, far more then I deserved but I wasn't about to question it just enjoy it all I could.

Scootaloo stirred after a bit yawning and stretching. "Are you awake?"

"I am." I opened my eyes to her even more messy mane then usual smiling at her as I gave her a squeeze. "Sleep good?"

"Yup! So back home today?"

"Can't stay away too long, we'll still have some fun today..."

"That’s not it, it's been so much fun spending time just the two of us dad but I miss mom and Pan... Okay Star too..."

I chuckled giving her another squeeze. "She adores her big sister you know?"

"Yeah..." She smiled. "Just need some space sometimes."

"I know Angel and that’s ok. So let’s get some breakfast and we can do a bit of shopping get something nice for Twilight and Star then we can catch the noon train home in time for supper."

"Ok!"

We did some shopping finding Twi, what else? A book about Trottinghams history and a cute plushie for Star we grabbed a quick lunch on the go and headed to the train station. I had though we'd been watched all day but that wasn't too strange but as we approached the train a trio of ponies blocked our path an Earth, Pegasus and a Unicorn.

"What the heck are you doing here?!"

"Pardon?"

"Hah it speaks! We don't want things like you in our town!"

"How dare you talk to my...!"

I restrained Scootaloo gently. "That’s ok Angel, well gentlemen if you'll stand aside we'll be leaving on the train."

"What'r you doing with this thing cutie?" He glared at me. "You some kinda pervert?"

"Why you..."

I pulled her back a few steps kneeling down to whisper to her. "Angel... What do we not want to do?"

"Make trouble..." She grumped with a frown.

"And starting a fight with some locals in a town we're visiting would be doing what?"

"Making trouble..."

I chuckled and handed her, her ticket. "Just fly and find our seats and I'll deal with this."

"But dad..."

"Trust me."

"Okay..."

She took her ticket and glared at the three ponies before soaring up and over them to the train.

"Now if you don't mind?"

"You don't deserve to ride the train better start walking and make sure it’s out of our town!"

The train was starting to pull away and all three of them smirked as I rolled my eyes, well it was nice to see pony solidarity against a common enemy even if I wasn't. Whatever, it was a bit annoying but certainly not worth causing a fuss over.

"Well you three certainly showed me, I'm so glad you were here to show me the error of my ways. Have yourselves a nice day."

They looked at me strangely not understanding as I flashed and suddenly disappeared teleporting to the back of the train and entering not even bothering to look back at them. Troublemakers or well meaning citizens more likely some good ol boys looking for some fun didn't matter to me. I made my way through the train showing my ticket to a confused conducted before finding my seat and Scootaloo.

"Dad! Did you kick their butts!? Pow! Wham!"

I laughed and pulled her onto my lap hugging her tight. "No, no Angel. Sometimes the best thing you can do is to ignore ponies like that, you know like you used to do with Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon. Bullies just want... Attention, to make themselves feel better because there’s something in their lives they don't like and can't or won't change..."

"Being a grown up is complicated isn't it?"

I sighed squeezing her and kissing her forehead. "Sure is Angel..."

We napped for a bit awakening as Ponyville came into view. "Happy birthday Angel, a little ahead of time I know. Love you."

"Love you too dad..."

No one was waiting for us when we arrived but I hadn’t been sure when we would get home just that we would be back by dinner the next day at the latest. We hurried home peeking in the window we saw Star sitting on Twilights back as she prepared dinner, we were about to sneak in when something shocked us both.

"Dindin mommy?"

"Soon baby, daddy and Scootaloo will be home soon."

"Daddy! Ootaloo!"

My heart leapt into my throat.

"She talked dad!"

"Shh, shh... Let’s not ruin the surprise..." Despite pretending to be calm I wanted to jump straight through the window and hug and kiss them both, we went around to the door opening it nonchalantly.

"We're hooome!" Scootaloo called out.

"Daddy, Ootaloo! Daddy, Ootaloo!" Star came galloping up as I knelt down and we hugged her between us.

"You talked baby..." I kissed her cheek gently caressing her mane.

"Daddy!"

"Good going Star! But its Scootaloo..." She emphasised the S.

"Ootaloo!"

"Scootaloo..."

"Ootaloo!"

"Scootaloo! Sssss..."

"Nake!" She giggled galloping away with Scootaloo in chase.

I smiled getting back up walking over to Twi swooping her up and kissing her passionately.

Missed you.

Me too, but that’s not all you missed.

I see, when?

Not too long after you both left, she was so frustrated wanting to know where you went and when you'd be back I think she just kept trying until that first night when we were in bed and she looked up and asked 'Ootaloo?' I didn't understand at first but she kept asking until I got it, I wish you could have been there.

I kissed here again with a smile. Me too love, too fast, too fast. It's not even a month she's not allowed to grow up so fast.

She giggled nuzzling against me. A little ahead of the curve but not so fast, don't worry love she'll grow slowly now until she's a little older then Scootaloo.

I sighed and set her down the both of us working on supper. "All a part of life I guess."

"Scootaloo!"

"Ootaloo!"

"She's still got a small vocabulary but she's learning fast... Still has a problem with her S's..."

"Too cute, okay girls time for supper!"

"Kay!"

They both came galloping up and I scooped up Star putting her in her highchair and kissing her. "Hey baby."

"Daddy! Mommy!" She smiled angelically apparently getting a great deal of happiness from our reactions to her talking.

We enjoyed dinner while Scootaloo regaled Twilight and her sister with how our day together went, after dinner we sat on the couch for awhile while we both explained a bit about the day and trying to get Star to learn new words until the sun set, we tucked Scootaloo in and settled down ourselves Star between us still excited running random words together making us smile, I rubbed her chest softly as she cuddled against us her head slowly nodding off.

We whispered back and forth a bit accented with soft kisses until we too drifted off...

The next day we made preparations for Scootaloo’s birthday, it was no secret so we openly got what we needed while she invited her friends and schoolmates there was going to be a lot of fillies and colts coming, it should be… Fun? No, hectic, crazy, well and fun. Pinkie was naturally more then happy to help us with the planning and setup by the day’s end we had everything we needed... Just needed to set it up, we set the alarm early for what was going to be a long day.

Around nine in the morning filly and colts started arriving some with their parents, some without, Twilight and I had our hands and hooves full making sure everything went smoothly and keeping an eye on Star she was having the time of her life so many fillies and colts to play with and plenty of adults to talk to as well. It was an exhausting day for everyone, even Pan and Owlicious were passed out by the end. I had been a bit worried about the two of them, weasel, owl... But they seemed to get along just fine or at the very least they ignored one another.

She got plenty of gifts and we gave out plenty too in the way of goodie bags but eventually the sugar rush ran out and everyone headed home except Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Diamond Tiara, Silver Spoon and Twist. No boys... Er colts. Who all stayed for a sleepover all six of them tired from a long day but still trying their hardest to stay up as long as possible. We let them get comfy in the living room while we cleaned up, by the time we were finished even with Pinkie, Applejack, Fluttershy and Rarity’s help it was nearly eleven. We bid everyone a good night and came back inside to an adorable sight, all the girls asleep in a group apparently in the middle of an improv pillow fight. Star was snuggled up between Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle Pan curled up on Scootaloo one of her wings wrapped around him.

We covered them up turning out the lights and heading up to bed, as I was about to get undressed for bed I felt a little tug on pant leg.

"Leepy daddy..." Star looked up at me her little head drooping, I scooped her up making sure she didn't need a change then put her by Twi she snuggled up immediately closing her eyes as Twi gently brushed her mane and tail. I got undressed and laid down rubbing her chest as the three of us drifted off.

Scootaloo was both excited and annoyed to go to Canterlot, there was lots to see and do and she loved her grandparents but at the same time Babs was going to be at the Apple family reunion and she knew they'd all be having fun without her! Can't have it all Angel I reminded her as we got ready. We packed pretty light after all we had our house and anything we forgot we could get there easily enough. A bit of baby stuff and we were set, we got to the train station early Scootaloo and Star darting around the benches giggling and laughing while Twilight and I not to mention the other ponies waiting for the train looked on smiling.

Before too long the train arrived and we found our cabin the girls were still to excited to sit still so we made our way to the dining car to get some snacks, we settled back down in our car Scootaloo and Star sitting together happily munching on their cookies and drinking from their juice boxes as they watched the scenery go by. We watched them a bit cuddling together their giggles and the clickety clack of the rails lulling us to sleep...

"Mom! Dad!"

"Mommy! Daddy!"

"Wake up, we're here!"

"We ear!"

I woke up to a smiling foal in my lap leaning up against her mother and an excited filly bouncing around, she crinkled her nose at us.

"Star needs a change too..."

She certainly did, I swept her off to the washroom as Twi woke up getting her changed and cleaned up meeting the two of them at the exit we being the last to disembark.

"Twilight, Rick!"

Twilights parents were waiting for us both smiling happily as Scootaloo galloped over Star hot on her hooves.

"Grandma! Grandpa! Look, look this is Star! Oh... I mean Starswirl!" She exclaimed holding her sister up proudly flapping her wings to keep balance. Star squealed happily looking up curiously at these two new ponies.

"Oh she's so precious!"

"And look at you, such a responsible big sister!"

She blushed putting Star down. "Thanks grandpa..."

We came over and they pulled us over for a hug Scootaloo and Star between us.

"We're so proud..." Mrs. Sparkle smiled with tears in her eyes. "When you got accepted to Celestia’s school for gifted Unicorns we were very proud, when your brother got accepted to the royal guard and rose up to be captain we were so proud!" She collapsed against us sobbing.

Mr. Sparkle leaned against her smiling. "What she means to say is of all the amazing things you and your brother have done, Cadence too the grandchildren you've given us... The joy you've given us makes us the most proud..."

Twilight smiled misty eyed. "Come to our house and you can get to know Star better."

"Sounds good my dear."

Canterlot was a busy place and it took us about a half an hour to make our way to our house getting plenty of odd looks on the way but I paid them no mind with my little Angel circling us occasionally landing on my shoulders or her granddads back and my baby happy on her mothers back trying out her new vocabulary mixed with baby talk on her two new friends I had no worries.

I was a bit surprised when we came up to the house, I was expecting some overgrowth, long grass and such but clearly Alizarin was taking his stewardship of our home very seriously… The lawn was cut and there was a few small saplings sprouted along with some flowers around the house.

"Come on Star! This is our yard!" Scootaloo swept down grabbing her sister the two of them tumbling onto the grass leaping up and chasing each other around.

As Twilight and I stepped across the threshold from the city to our property I felt something... A strange magical ripple for just a moment then it was gone.

Did you feel that?

Yes, something different... Not harmful though... I'm not sure.

I guess we'll see...

We looked around warily but were quickly distracted by the two cuties running around their grandparents by no means over the hill more then capable of joining in the two of us quickly pulled in as well as we chased, played hide and seek which Star didn't quite get but she loved to seek. We had a great time until we were all tired out and lunchtime was upon us, we headed inside to get cleaned up.

"Well we don't have any groceries here but we can go out..." I began explaining but stopped short as we entered and the lights turned on of their own accord revealing a spotless interior and over in the kitchen a table laid out with sandwiches and drinks as well as a translucent pony we knew quite well.

"Alizarin!" We echoed.

"What’s all this?" I asked.

"Welcome home my friends, I felt your arrival and when I got back found you all enjoying this beautiful day, I was sure you would all be hungry... Oh?! This must be your beautiful new foal Starswirl..."

Star looked up at him unsure hiding behind my leg, normally she wasn't shy at all but this was an unusual situation. I picked her up giving her a squeeze. "This is Alizarin baby, he's a friend."

"Azarin?"

He smiled and nodded which reminded me I turned to find Mr and Mrs Sparkle staring Scootaloo as well. "Long story, we can tell you all about it over lunch. Don't stare Angel you've seen him before remember...?"

"Yeah..." She took a curious step closer. "But I don't remember him being so... So... Cool! I can see right through him! Is he... Can I touch...?” She reached out with a forehoof to poke him encountering no resistance she yanked it back wide eyed. "Awesome!"

"Scootaloo! Go sit down please, I'm so sorry Alizarin... She's just so curious..." Twilight apologised blushing.

"Not a problem Mrs. Sparkle... My apologies, Twilight. Please sit and enjoy."

"Join us please, I'm sure my parents and I know Scootaloo would like to know more about you."

"Me? Well if you wish..."

We sat and had a delicious lunch Twilight and I regaling the tale of how we met Alizarin and how he eventually ended up living here. Scootaloo and Twilight's parents had plenty of questions Twilight had done some research being fascinated by him as well and between them they tried to answer everything. Star was a little fussy interested in all the talking but frustrated she couldn't really join in so I took her out for a short walk, she galloped ahead letting me catch up then taking off again. Eventually we got to a place I wanted to show her but I definitely didn't want her galloping recklessly around in. I scooped her up holding her high as we came onto that stretch of parapet, Twilight and I's special place... We both looked out at the amazing view over Equestria she waved her little forehooves around excitedly telling me all about what she saw with her few words and adorable baby talk.

Suddenly she stopped and I felt her looking to the side so naturally I turned to look as well taking a step back in surprise. A mare I knew well but wasn't sure I'd ever see again. Her silver mane flowing in the breeze, her performer’s hat and cape tossed aside one hoof up on the parapet’s edge as she stared out across Equestria.

"Trixie...?"

She jumped slightly looking at me momentarily before turning back. "Out of all the parapet’s in Equestria..."

I took a step closer to her. "What are you doing?"

"Fixing things..." She pushed herself forward, either she forgot I could use magic or I really hoped she wanted someone to stop her. She got one hoof over the edge before she ran into a telekinetic force I slowly pushed her back. I know she could easily have broken through it with her own magic, teleported herself out over the edge... But she didn't I rushed up carefully still holding Star and pulled her back from the edge.

"Trixie! What the hell!"

"You don't know!" She sobbed. "You don't know what it's like to lose everything! And after that gain so much more and then lose that too! You have your love why should you care!?"

Star was a very empathetic filly, she had an uncanny habit even as young as she was of being able to tell how someone was feeling. If Twilight, her sister or I were ever feeling low she would be all over us wanting to be close, to try to make us happy... She didn't know Trixie at all but she could easily tell she was upset and she burst out crying patting her head with her forehooves.

Trixie looked up in surprise blinking her tears away. "Wha... What? Who...? This isn't...?"

"Shh, shh... It's ok baby." I soothed her mane holding her tight.

"Daddy..."

"This is Starswirl Twilight and I's foal Star this is Trixie one of our friends and a very stupid mare."

"What?!"

"Shh, Trixie..." I pulled her close. "I do know how you feel somewhat, I've lost my whole family, friends, everything I knew..."

"Yeah you look soo distraught..."

"That’s the point..." I held up Star giving her a kiss. "Things happened, I lost but I gained. Who's to say the same couldn't happen for you?"

"I..."

"When it's over Trixie, it's over... It can't get any better and it never will. You’re down now but you won't be forever, don't give up... I know it will hurt to hear but Fluttershy wouldn't want this; if she heard you did this... If you succeeded... It would destroy her..."

"I know! I know... I just, I just want the hurting to stop."

"Well then... Use a spell to erase your memory..."

"What?"

"I'm sure it could be done, you could remove Fluttershy from your mind forever..."

"No! I can't believe you would even suggest that...!" She froze looking at me accusingly realizing that was my point.

"Of course not, you love her and you always will. Remember the good and while you can't forget the bad you can let go of it. Let it go and live, you have a job you love and friends, fans! I'm sure you could come back and study with Twi once things... Calm down."

"I... I'll try..."

I gave her a hug Star holding onto her too. "Tixie!"

"You look awful, when’s the last time you slept?"

"I'm not sure... Days..."

"Well that settles it; you'll be coming to stay with us right Star?"

"Gah!"

"But I..."

"No, no... Looks like Star agrees you can't refuse her." I grinned holding her up.

"She is awfully cute..."

"Let’s go then." I helped her to her hooves starting on our way back home, she looked back and I was monetarily worried but she simply levitated her hat and cloak over the edge letting them fly away.

"I don't need them anymore..." The strain of using her magic must have been too much as her eyes rolled up and she fainted dead away. I quickly scanned her relieved to find nothing more wrong with her then a severe lack of sleep and a bit of dehydration.

I sighed hefting her carefully up onto my shoulders levitating Star into her harness. "Come on baby, let’s go home..."

"Home!"

Everyone stared as I ducked through the door; I levitated Star down heading to the stairs. "I'll explain in just a minute..."

I laid her down in our bed gently covering her up. "Alizarin..."

I'm not sure how but he heard me and was there in a second. "How may I assist...?" He looked at Trixie curiously. "A familiar mare... Ah yes, magical accompaniment to Sapphire Shores." At my confused look he smiled. "They most recently performed at the Canterlot Coliseum and naturally I was curious, it was a very impressive show. Is she an acquaintance of yours?"

"A friend... A troubled friend. I need a favour; can I ask you to keep an eye on her? As much as you can I mean, she's been very depressed and I don't want her to do anything... Final."

"Final...? Oh?! Surely not, a successful mare such as she?"

"Sometimes it's the ones who have the most who are the most troubled..."

"I see... Clearly I still have more to learn, though it does make me fearful for the Princesses, who could have more worries then they?"

"Their both very strong mares I wouldn't worry... I hope."

"At any rate I shall watch over her like a mother hen! Perhaps I should stay covert...?"

"No need for that, talk to her perhaps? She and Twilight have studied together a lot so you might have a lot to talk about..."

"I'll do just that, I do enjoy having someone to talk to."

"For now I imagine she'll sleep for quite awhile, come back down and I'll explain the situation..."

Everyone was waiting so I explained everything Twilight helping me explain everything that happened with Trixie before. I tried to steer away from having to detail anything about suicide to my Angel but she was too curious, I was glad Star didn't have enough of a grasp of language to understand at all, Scootaloo just couldn't seem to understand why anyone would ever want to do that which I was grateful for so we just let it go.

"Sorry this had to mar your visit here but you’re doing a good thing letting her stay here."

"Thanks dad but we don't have a spare bed; I suppose we could sleep on the couch..."

"Don't be silly dear, you four can stay with us! We have plenty of room. Scootaloo, you can stay in Twilights old room and you two and the baby can use Shiny's old room."

"We wouldn't want to impose..."

"Nonsense son, family is family you’re always welcome for as long as you like."

"That’s settled then, shall we go?"

"Do you want us to stay Alizarin?" I asked.

"Worry not my friends I shall inform her that she is a welcome guest for as long as she needs."

"Thank you, sorry we didn't get to talk more..."

"I'm sure we will have a chance to converse more before you go Mrs... I mean, Twilight."

"Thank you again my friend we'll see you later..."

We left, I took a last look back hoping my talk with Trixie had some effect... I couldn't understand suicide really, even if you've lost everything there’s always a chance for things to get better... I wouldn't give up that chance even in my darkest... Well I hadn’t been there and I wasn't her so I couldn't say for sure.

We got to their home and got settled talking, playing with Angel and Star in their living room until it was time for supper, Mrs. Sparkle and Twilight worked side by side in the kitchen giggling and talking together as they cooked while we men folk...? Stallion folk? Males. While we waited in the living room, I was on all fours with Star hopping excitedly on my back while I ferried her around as Scootaloo sat with her grandpa as he told her stories of excitement from the accounting office... She was trying very hard to pay attention and stay awake.

"Dinnertime!"

Scootaloo hopped up with a sheepish grin. "Tell me more later ok grandpa?"

He smiled and ruffled her mane I could tell he loved being called grandpa. "You bet sweetie."

A delicious dinner was laid out, Star had advanced to baby food and even some solid food too as well as still nursing neither she nor Twilight were willing to give that up yet.

After dinner Mr. Sparkle and I cleaned up while the ladies entertained the girls. After that we all relaxed on the couch together and something occurred to me.

"You know... I can't believe I've never asked your names, I've just been calling you Mr. and Mrs. Sparkle or Twilights parents... I'm very sorry about that."

They looked at one another and burst out laughing. "There’s nothing to apologise for Rick. Considering how we first met... Well suffice to say we were less then convinced you had Twilights best interests at heart, little did we know..." Mr. Sparkle grinner wryly.

"But your right my dear, I am Velvet Sparkle."

"And I'm Night Light Sparkle... Of course I did take my wives name as my own and we're so pleased you chose to do so as well."

I blushed slightly giving Twi a squeeze. "Well... Seemed like the best choice, thanks for telling me, understanding and accepting me into your family..."

They both smiled Star and Scootaloo snuggled up against them. "When we were first... 'Introduced' I was quite taken aback by you, your appearance and what your connection with my daughter might be. At first I thought perhaps she was just trying to scratch certain... 'Itch...'"

"Mooom!"

Night Light chuckled. "Your mother is being as tactful as possible dear, to be honest Rick when I first met you and we spoke I saw a bit of myself in you."

"Really?"

"Velvet is one of Canterlot's most distinguished and highly regarded researchers, I am simply an accountant. When we first met... Well it’s a long story so..."

"Tell us!" Scootaloo squealed.

"Tell, tell!" Star giggled.

"Ok, ok... The office I work at and the laboratory she worked at are both across from a park and I often ate my lunches there. I had noticed a beautiful mare she sat by herself normally on occasion with a group of her colleagues. This was perhaps fifty years ago when she was still a rising star back then but still just as beautiful now..."

"Oh Light..." They leaned over to kiss. "I had noticed him as well though I thought nothing of it at the time, a stallion eating on his own sometimes with a pile of paperwork, adorable... I couldn't explain it then and it still mystifies me but everyday I found myself looking a little longer, sitting a little closer... Just to provide myself a more panoramic view of the park I told myself, I started bringing my sketchbooks, I did a little drawing back then. Still do I suppose when I have the time..."

"I was starting to get nervous, every day this beautiful mare seemed to be getting closer I didn't have the courage to talk to her and I was afraid if she got too much closer I was going to do something stupid! Yet at the same time I wanted her to come closer I held out hope I could come up with something to say, anything!"

"That probably would have made things a lot more simple dear heart. Before too long I was sitting at the table across from him I found myself flustered... Employing old flirting tactics like a school filly! 'Accidentally' brushing against him when I passed, asking for the time, eating my lunch... 'Suggestively...'" She blushed.

"Suggestively? Like... You wanted more lunch?" Scootaloo asked.

Night Light suppressed a chuckle. "S... Something like that sweetheart... Despite all the clues she was throwing at me I remained a bit dense I admit. I repeatedly thought or perhaps I was unwilling to see that a mare so amazing could be interested in me..."

I know that feeling...

Silly...

"I was packing up to go back to work one afternoon when I accidentally tripped over a picnic table leg distracted watching her out of the corner of my eye spilling my papers all over! I slowly gathered them up embarrassed coming face to face with her a similar pile of my papers levitated before her, our eyes met and I was lost… I mean I was attracted to her already but meeting her gaze like that... I realized despite sharing less then a dozen words together I was in love..."

"We were..."

"That I didn't know at the time making it all the more terrifying! I briefly considered fleeing and never returning abandoning my paperwork and dignity but instead I did the hardest thing I've ever done to this day."

"What?!" We both asked.

"I took my paper, thanked her and introduced myself then rushed back to the office so I could throw up in the washroom..."

"Ew!"

"Just nerves sweetheart, I still recall that day clearly when his papers scattered that was my chance to… Well I had no idea what, but something! But he made the first move surprisingly, thanking me introducing himself and leaving quickly al the while staring into my eyes. I was tongue tied until after he was out of sight and I managed a 'Bye'...'"

"Mushy..."

They both laughed hugging her and Star between them. "Maybe right now sweetheart but someday you'll see..."

"No young colts have come seeking your attention...?" Night Light grinned at my grimace.

"Well... Rumble and I have gone to a couple movies; he tried to hold my hoof so I took the rest of his popcorn!" She giggled.

"Someday then, no rush... The next day I peered out my window at lunchtime and she was there, waiting patently. I hurried down trying to be nonchalant sitting across from her; we unpacked our lunches with the occasional momentary glance at one another. We each offered one another half of our sandwich’s and that’s how things started, slow conversation, getting to know one another better and better each day. I was on a cloud already visions of our future together no matter how far fetched dancing in my head little did I realize there were those who intended that those dreams would never come true..."

"What happened grandpa?!"

"Let me answer that sweetheart, you see there are factions all throughout Equestria and within Canterlot especially despite all Princess Celestia and Luna have done to disapprove of such things they remain to this day though they were far more prevalent back then..."

"Like what?"

"Well, the nobles and upper society type ponies tend to stick together, the celebrities, actors and their hanger on's, and the scientific community... There are plenty of others too I'm sure; I was probably even a member of one! Though I didn't pay too much attention Velvet was the only thing on my mind. But some of her colleges had seen us together and they didn't approve, at all..." Night Light frowned and shook his head at the memory.

"Ya... Well, it's not their business!" She grumped adorably.

Velvet smiled and caressed her mane softly giving her a squeeze. "Very true sweetheart but ponies will be ponies, at first they limited themselves to snide remarks and gossip when they thought I couldn't hear or even if they thought I could. As the days passed by and we spent more time together they began to get more vocal about it. I wasn't about to let them tell me how to live my life! But I was still a junior researcher and I had to be careful, some of the detractors had influence and I was worried about my future... But I still felt a part of my future; maybe a big part included him..."

"What did you do?" Scootaloo was hooked now as was I, Twilight might have heard this story before but she leaned against me with my arm around her listening intently.

"Well when I came out the next day eager to see her I was surprised she wasn't there! I sat thinking maybe she was just late, I waited and waited lunch was almost over and I hadn't touched a thing waiting for her. I was worried, scared and depressed. What if she changed her mind?! I was hardly a catch maybe she found someone she liked better... Was better suited for her? I sank my head down between my forehooves feeling depressed when I noticed something I hadn’t before... Written on the table small but very neatly 'Look under your seat.' I had been sitting at this spot for some time and never noticed it before, I cautiously reached under not sure what to expect and found a sealed envelope written on the outside was. 'Do not read this here.' Confused and still worried I packed up my lunch and went back to my office, I eagerly opened it and was rewarded with the scent of her perfume, I read it carefully and then again. She feared reprisals from small minded colleagues of hers if we continued to see one another. I thought that was it, I would never see here again..." Scootaloo hugged him tightly making him smile. "Of course that didn't happen, she had a plan. If being seen in public was such a problem we simply would have to continue our relationship in private. If I was willing? And naturally I was!"

"We met in secret every few days, sometimes even sooner if we couldn't stand the wait! Secret notes and signs we employed we thought we were being so covert! We were still perhaps a bit naive, it was around six months after we first started 'seeing' one another when we arranged out first official date! A movie 'Cowcablanca', it's a classic movie about two bovines... Oh sorry, it's my favourite movie still to this day. We enjoyed the show, had our first kiss at the end..." She sighed happily leaning over to kiss Night Light. "Unfortunately little did we know we were being watched, either by accident or design some of my co-workers were there and saw us... Come Monday still dizzy over my date I was accosted by several of them one my lab overseer chastising me and my choices in a colt friend threatening to get me in trouble with the department head, for my own good they said! Ha! I was stunned I didn't know what to do. They were trying to make me choose between the career I loved and the stallion I might be... No, the stallion I was in love with. I might have run crying from them but truly it didn't take me long to come to a decision. I straightened up my lab space, took my things, wrote my resignation put it in the department head's mailbox and left."

"But that’s not fair! Why did you have to leave?"

"That was her choice sweetie, though if she had talked to me about it I certainly wouldn't have agreed that I was worth her career at the time!"

"I did what I thought I had to my love, and I don't regret a moment of it now, that day however as soon as I got home my tough facade cracked and my doubts and fears swirled around me like a maelstrom. I cried and cried, I guess I was lucky my parents were coming over for a visit that night. Bit by bit they managed to get the story out of me, they were disappointed that I'd thrown my career away but understanding of why and angry that I even had to, but what was done was done. They helped me pick up the pieces..."

"The next day when I came out hoping for another letter instead there stood an older stallion with a stern and disapproving look on his face. He looked me over as I cautiously approached then nodded slightly. 'So you’re the one.' I didn't know what to say, was this a college of Velvet's? Was she in trouble because of me? He passed me a folded piece of paper with an address on it. 'If you care about her you'll be there as soon as you’re done with work.' And he turned and walked away before I could say a word not that I could think of anything to say! The rest of the day I couldn't focus on anything other then Velvet, despite all my doubts as soon as I left work I found myself heading to the address given to me. A nice apartment building, I climbed to the third floor and found the apartment and tapped on the door. After a moment the door opened and there was that same stallion, he looked a little surprised to see me and grudgingly nodded after a moment. 'Come in.' I had plenty of questions but I held my tongue, frankly he intimidated me a lot but soon I would be even more surprised..."

"You and I both, my mother and father had done all they could for me, helped me calm down, let me sob and cry all my problems on their shoulders but they could only do so much. I was laying in my room still miserable going over every little thing sure I had messed up everything not only with my work but with Night Light too... There was a light tap at my door and my mother let herself in, 'I hope you don't mind dear but we had to do something your father and I...' Before I could protest she helped me up steering me out the door into the living room where my father and Night Light awaited. We both just stood there shock still a moment, my father must have filled him in on what had happened because I could see the concern in his eyes and... Love. We rushed to one another embracing both of us still speechless. 'We know you two have a lot to talk about so your father and I are going out for a bit. Perhaps we'll catch a show and some dinner...' They both smiled to me on their way out the door though my father did glare at Night Light one last time before they left." She giggled setting off Star who couldn't follow the conversation and was amusing herself by climbing her sister and jumping off onto the soft cushions, she giggled along climbing up into Velvet's embrace.

"I was still shocked, amazed her parents found me and trusted me enough to bring me here even more shocked she had given up her job for me! We started talking slowly at first each admission bringing new surprises and like a bursting dam we told each other everything, our hopes, fear and dreams. We were still talking when her parents returned and then even some more after they turned in for the night. We fell asleep on her couch side by side that night and a few days later we moved in together and slept side by side ever since..." They kissed again smiling.

"But wait! What about the mean co-workers? And great grandma and grandpa?"

Both their faces turned overcast at that last question. "To be honest sweetheart I never really talked to them again, we still work in the same circles but I paid them no heed. My parents... They've both passed on, they were both Earth ponies you see... They saw our wedding and Shiney's birth but..."

I squeezed Twilight softly sorry for her and their loss.

"I do wish you all could have met them, I think they would have definitely been amazed by this chain of events..."

"What about your parent’s grandpa?"

"Oh their fine, both retired living in Canterbury. We will definitely have to introduce you to them someday."

"What did they think of you and grandma?'

"Oh they were thrilled; I was a bit introverted so they were just glad for me to have met someone." He chuckled.

"I put myself back out there and got another job before too long and a year later we were married, thirty eight years ago we brought your uncle into this world. It wasn't easy; we tried and tried saw quite a few doctors but finally! And like a miracle eighteen years later without any special tricks or magic came you Twilight, a beautiful surprise just like you Star and you as well Scootaloo."

"Aww, thanks grandma..."

Everyone was tired from the long story, Star was curled up against her sister and Scootaloo too was yawning widely.

"Oh my! How we've prattled on, it’s so late. Time for bed my darlings."

"I'm not tired... I want... To hear... More..." Scootaloo passed out as her grandfather levitated her onto his back, I scooped up my sleeping little Star and we all made out way upstairs. They tucked in Scootaloo while Twilight showed me to Shining Armor's old room, it was a fair size and much like Twilights old room they hadn’t changed a thing from when he moved out. We got ready for bed meeting her parents at the door.

"That was an amazing story, I'm glad everything worked out."

"Well it's been an adventure that’s to be sure, we don't always get along, we fight, we make up. My favourite part..." Night light whispered with a grin.

"Dad! I can't know that!"

We all chuckled at that. "Don't be silly dear, up's and down's it's all a part of being in love. Never forget it and if it ever ends... Celestia willing it never will, but never take it for granted." Velvet smiled.

"We won't." We echoed hugs all around and they both kissed Star goodnight before we all turned in. Armor’s bed wasn't very big so we snuggled together with Star atop us tucked in tight.

Love...

Hmmm...?

Love conquers all right? Wish it were so but... I think we've all been very lucky.

Love makes the impossible possible. Sometimes things don't work out... She kissed me softly. And sometimes they do.

That they do... I kissed her back then sighed. Trixie... Stupid mare...

Don't be too hard on her... We don't know.

just don't get it... I hope we can help her...I

She'll come around... I'm sure of it.

Sleep tight, love you.

Love you.

Life and death...

Love and hate...

Hold onto what matters Trixie...

Interlude: Dreams and Desires...

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She soared... Through the dreamscape passing dream after dream, normally she would stop to observe a few perhaps make a change or two here and there. But... She had a plan, something she had been mulling over, putting off for a long time. She was filled with dread, excitement, fear and longing...

She stopped before two dreams close together one she had visited many times on her sister’s behest the other only a few times, she was frozen with indecision. On the one hoof she knew what she wanted to do was wrong, a betrayal of sorts but on the other hoof... She was alone, so alone...

She shook her head and entered the dream; it was a simple dream one that you might have anytime running over the details of your day, minor things spinning around replayed in your mind while you slept. She ignored it and pressed deeper past the dream into the subconscious past a towering walled city filled with hustle and bustle, then a smaller plain town and even further yet...

A rough village ponies and humans living their boisterous carefree lives, she alit on a nearby tree watching, trying to build up her courage. So free... Did she too have a place like this in her own mind? It seemed unlikely to her but who knows?

"Now or never..." She whispered to herself. "Do it or leave and never return..."

She saw her opportunity, one of the humans off on his own lounging in the shade. She swooped down landing lightly behind him observing him a moment, a bit scruffier then usual but a near perfect likeness... Forgive me Twilight... She stepped closer clearing her throat.

He rolled over his eyes going wide at the sight of her. "Wow..."

"She smiled nervously one of her forehooves fidgeting in the dirt. "Greetings Rick... I mean, persona of Rick..."

"Good to see you Luna, damn you’re beautiful! Anyone ever tell you that?" He grinned.

"Not for a long, long time..." She whispered with a slight shiver a pang of longing and desire shooting through her.

"So what brings you here?" He asked edging closer with a grin as if he knew very well what.

"I... I want... I need..." She stammered.

"I understand you have desires? Want to be treated... Special? Like the beautiful, desirable mare you are right?" He smiled edging closer still sitting gently caressing her forelegs and up to her chest.

She shivered again her trepidation being overpowered by need. "Y... Yes... It's been so long... I... Oohh..."

She gasped as he leaned over kissing just above her hoof hands still rubbing as he kissed his way up. "You deserve to be loved, adored... Pleasured..." He kissed her chest still caressing up her neck still gently but with increased pressure his fingers digging in.

She groaned arching her neck and back. "Yes... Please..."

He continued to caress her as he kissed and nibbled up her neck to just under her jaw. "Mmm... You smell amazing Luna..." His hands caressed up her face to her ears fondling them as he softly kissed her nose.

"D... Don't tease me... Please..."

His lips met hers suddenly, she had wondered... Fantasised perhaps about what it might be like, the reality... Well this reality was far better, his lips while smaller then hers were still soft the hair surrounding them rough against her. She pressed forward her eyes close wanting more and he responded just as she wanted.

After a few minutes of feverish making out they parted both gasping for air. "Do... Do you have a place more... Private?" She blushed.

"Of course Luna." He led her around the outside of the village to a small hut; inside was a simple kitchen leading into a bedroom / living room area surprisingly tidy. He led her over to a simple mat on the ground kissing her passionately again. "More to your liking?"

"Yes..." She breathed still shaking both with fear and anticipation. This was her last chance... She could still back out, fly away and never return, but... She yearned, she needed this... She needed... Something. Why him? She didn't really know, here in his subconscious it felt real but she could deny it, fool herself... "Hold me..." She begged.

"Anything you want." He bore her gently down onto the mat brushing her mane back as they kissed again and again holding each other close. Her passion exploded as their tongues met, wrestled and explored each others mouths her musky scent filled the air making her blush ashamed of what she was doing and how much she was enjoying it.

He rolled her onto her back breaking their kiss long enough to pull off his ragged shirt before diving back in kissing her again and again moving down her neck to her chest hands busy caressing her all over as his lips moved lower and lower... She gasped feeling his hot breath on her marehood. "Are you sure this is what you want?"

Her breath came in short gasps as she writhed under him... Under his control. "Y... Yes... Yes!"

"I think I had best interrupt you here dear sister... Or perhaps I should go...?" Came an amused voice.

A blinding light filled the room pushing the two of them apart; she rolled to her hooves quickly ashamed and afraid as her sister appeared before them.

"Tia! What are you doing here?! It's too dangerous for us both to be here in his... I shouldn't even be..."

Celestia raised an eyebrow with a sly smile. "And just what are you doing here sister? Although it is a fairly rhetorical question after what I've witnessed..."

"I... I... I can..." She sighed sinking down deflated and defeated. "I can't explain... I'm so ashamed..."

Celestia laughed sitting by her and pulling her close with a wing. "Sister dear sister. I shouldn't tease you but sometimes it's just too easy..."

"What?!"

"Your allowed to dream whatever you want sister... Even a steamy and scandalous one such as this..." She giggled.

"Dream...?" She looked around things suddenly clearer and noticed Rick still crouched to the side where he had been pushed frozen as if paralyzed, suddenly everything changed and they found themselves back at a familiar place. Soft clouds and a sky of stars... "Tia please forgive me..."

"For what? Having needs? Being lonely? I know those feelings all too well sister..."

"I know... Wait. How are you here? Are you another figment of my imagination?!" She asked reaching out to nudge her with a forehoof cautiously.

Celestia laughed again. "Luna, just as I know you spied on me and our parents during my lessons how could you expect that I had done any less? I don't have your mastery or skill but I can accomplish a few things..." She smiled.

"Okay... But why tonight? Of all nights..." She whispered the last bit under her breath.

"I stopped by to see if you were still up and wanted to talk and found you a bit... Distracted. Mumbling, sweating... Other things. I was a bit concerned and curious so I thought I should check up on you... To my surprise." She giggled.

She groaned sinking down trying to bury her head in the clouds. "I've messed everything up... How could I let myself do this?"

"It was just a dream Luna; you of all ponies should know that dreams are just that. Dreams."

She pulled away turning her back. "Don't you see sister!? I thought it was real! If I gathered enough courage to try it here... I could have done it when he slept... I could have ruined everything! My friendships, even our relationship..."

"Lulu..." Celestia stood turning her gently to look in her tear filled eyes. "You've done nothing but dream, do you desire Rick? Seek to steal him from Twilight? Tear their family apart?"

"No! Of course not! I may... Be curious about what it might be like to be with a human but I would never..."

"Exactly..."

She sighed leaning against her sister with a small smile. "Thank you... You were always the strong one Tia..."

"Maybe... But not always, I missed you when you were gone. I missed... Him. But it must have been so much worse for you."

"Loneliness... Missing you, Discord, Mother and Father... It filled my mind for so long, even when I returned and the Element bearers saved me... Still alone, I'm sorry sister I just wanted some contact, love, even just simple sexual pleasure..." She blushed slightly.

"I understand, do I ever... And now with our knowledge and the bearers of the Elements with us... I believe it's time..."

"Time...?"

Celestia smiled kissing her on the forehead. "Time for a reunion..."

Chapter 12 (The return we totally missed.)

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Another week flew by Star adding more and more words to her vocabulary naturally with Scootaloo, Twilight and I encouraging her not to mention Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and all our friends.

We had received a strange letter from Princess Celestia asking us all to meet her just outside Ponyville, we walked Scootaloo to school then the three of us gathered in the morning meeting Pinkie and Rarity we were surprised to find Dash there too! Apparently she had been given a surprise week-long pass that directed her here as well, Fluttershy and Applejack still hadn’t made it either.

We all sat down together Star galloping back and forth between us talking up a storm and loving the attention as we talked amongst ourselves.

"What do you think the Princess wants?" Dash paced back and forth above our heads.

"It must be important; everyone knows this is my spa day!'

"Is there any day that isn't a spa day for you Rarity?" Twilight asked with a grin.

"Well... Their not open on Sunday."

We all chuckled at that.

"Still it is worrisome..."

"Worr... Worr..."

I smiled sweeping Star up giving her a hug and kiss spinning her around. "Wore, I, some..."

"Wor... Ee... Ome? Worreome!"

"Close enough baby."

She squealed happily galloping off, certainly made me worry less.

"It might not be something bad, she might want to invite us to a big Canterlot party!"

"Could be Pinkie, I guess we'll just have to wait and see..."

I sat down in the grass by her both of us leaning against one another.

"Or maybe she wants us to meet someone...?"

"Who could she want us to meet way out here Pinkie dear?"

"Some one with a deer antler, a goat leg, a bat wing, and a snake tail!"

"That’s crazy Pinkie that would be Discord..."

She pointed shaking slightly drawing our attention to four Pegasus royal guards pulling a chariot and another group of them with another chariot with a large statue. Twilight had told me about Discord of course and along with our discussions with Luna I could recognise him, though I had no idea what this could be about...

"Princess...!" We all bowed as she landed and Twi stepped forward. "Forgive me Princess but... What in Tartarus are you doing bringing Discord here!?"

"I am well aware last time Discord was here he caused a few problems..."

"A few...?!"

"Be that as it may could he be persuaded to use his magic for good he would be a great boon to Equestria, we have need of him. Some of us more then others..." She smiled as Luna soared down flanked by two of her batpony guardians.

"Princess Luna!" Everyone bowed again, she looked apprehensive and worried.

"Sister are you sure about this? I don't want to cause..."

"I am. Discord was once a great friend to Equestria... To us all and for that and many other reasons I feel he should be reformed, convinced to use his powers for good."

"Okay, how can we help Princess?" Twilight asked.

"Pincet?"

I scooped Star up holding her close with a quiet "Shh..."

Celestia and Luna both smiled. "With the elements of harmony by your sides Discord would not dare try anything too reckless, though I am hoping a more gentle touch might work... Where is Fluttershy?"

"Fluttershy?!"

"She was helping Applejack with something at the farm I'll go and see what’s keeping them." Dash zipped off towards Sweet Apple acres.

"Fluttershy? With all respect Princess don't you think Luna should...?"

She held up her forehoof to stop me motioning me close. The others were talking amongst themselves as they put their elements on as I walked over.

"There are very few who know of my sister’s connection to Discord, for now we wish to keep it that way. Some ponies have long memories and Discords... Shenanigans are still remembered none too fondly..."

"Of course, sorry I didn't think..." I apologised while trying to keep a squirmy foal under control as she tried to grab a flowing strand of Celestia’s mane.

"I wish it could be as simple as putting Luna and he into a room, they make up and he's the being we used to know and love happily ever after but... He made no mention of her when he was last revived, I don't know if it was perhaps an effect of the Miasma, being imprisoned for so long... I don't know..."

"I wish I could... Just..." Luna looked longingly towards the statue her eyes filled with grief as Celestia wrapped a wing comfortingly over her.

"Pincet?" Star stared at her wide eyed holding her forehooves out.

Luna levitated her over holding her close. "Thank you little one..."

"So we want to introduce him back into pony society quietly, carefully... And Fluttershy’s kind and understanding nature we feel is the key... Which brings me to another important point, Discords magic is strong and if he tries for whatever reason he may be able to detect you, both of you. Last time you were away in Saddle Arabia open diplomatic channels too far for any casual search but this time... And you Rick, we have no idea what might happen if he finds you. His hatred of humans was vast and even though the Miasma is gone from him time may not have lessened it any..."

"So what can we do? Travel far away...?" I realised suddenly that would mean being away from Twilight, Scootaloo and Star for as long as this took, I didn't like that idea at all...

"That is an option but still risky, instead if you allow I will place you and Luna into a temporal space, a pocket dimension as it were... A world between worlds still connected to ours, we hope this can be taken care of quickly but..."

"We can't be sure, he's always been... Difficult." Luna smiled sadly nuzzling Star.

"I'll have to talk to Twilight about it but I think I'm in."

"Of course."

Twilight and I talked it over as Fluttershy and Applejack came galloping up and the others explained the situation to them. She knew the whole story with Luna and Discord so she was sympathetic and even though we hated to be apart and I really hated to be away from Angel and Star if this could help bring Luna and Discord back together, even if it was only a chance it was worth it for everything she'd done for us.

We approached the Princess’s together and nodded. "Let's do it."

Celestia smiled. "Very well, let us begin..."

"Wait! Now?! I wanted to say goodbye to Scootaloo after school..."

"I'm sorry Rick but we should begin now while we are all gathered and the Elements are ready, also I fear Luna... Well perhaps all of us may lose our nerve; we must strike while the iron is hot!"

"Okay, okay... When you’re ready."

Her horn began to glow as she opened a shimmering portal; she and Luna embraced whispering to one another before she entered.

I turned to Twilight with a small smile. "Absence makes the heart grow fonder right?"

She shook her head with a grin. "Couldn't get too much fonder my love; be careful I'll miss you."

I swept her up kissing her passionately. "You be careful, I know we owe Luna but if he endangers any of you, Scootaloo, the Crusaders, Star..."

"He'll be stone before he has a chance to blink."

"Tell Angel I'm sorry and I love her."

"She knows, she'll be ok. We'll be ok."

I picked up Star squeezing her between us giving her a kiss. "I'll miss you baby, love you so much."

"Love! Daddy."

That made me mist up, I peppered her with kisses squeezing her tight before putting her on Twi's back, I kissed Twi once more then turned and followed Luna.

Love you.

Love you...

The bright light of the portal blinded me momentarily as I passed through; I blinked looking around and was surprised to see a familiar field... The very one I had been standing in just a second ago and Ponyville in the distance!

"What happened...?" I spun around to ask but there was no one there...

"We agreed this would be the most... Comfortable, solution for you. And I do enjoy Ponyville so it is no inconvenience to me."

Looking up I found Luna smiling down at me. "Interesting, well let’s go check it out, come walk with me?"

"No." She swooped down flipping me onto her back and taking off as I desperately wrapped my arms around her neck to hold on. "You come fly with me!" She giggled.

We reached town in moments coming in for a landing in town square, Celestia's spell had captured the town perfectly all the buildings, plants and sculptures. But all was quiet not even a breeze blew through. It was as if everyone in town just got up all at once and left never to return. Actually it was a bit creepy… I half expected zombies to come shambling out of the alleys and doorways at any moment.

"Amazing isn't it? My sister has outdone herself."

"It's something to behold that’s for sure, well we have air certainly what about food and water?"

She gave me a sarcastic look. "Yes my sister would leave us to starve..."

"Well..."

"Silly, everything that was or should be in Ponyville other then its inhabitants of course should be here." She explained as we walked through town stopping at the Cakes bakery. Inside still unnaturally quiet our footfalls / hoofclicks the only sound but there were cakes, cookies and other baked good still on display. We both selected a morsel and tried them, something was off though... Much like the town the food was muted, dulled and flat. It still had a bit of flavour and was filling but it was a poor substitute.

"Hmm... I suppose we can't have everything, truthfully what we're eating is nothing more then coalesced magic, full of all the nutrition we need to be sure but..." She shrugged with a smile.

"Not a problem, still if she created all this from memory that’s amazing."

"Hers and the magic runs off our own perceptions, knowledge and memories..."

"That’s just as impressive if not more so..." I chuckled.

She smiled with a sigh looking around lost in thought.

"Might as well take a look around eh?"

"Hmm...? Oh certainly. I am not yet fatigued."

"Right, you sleep during the day... Oh wait, who will raise the moon while you’re in here?"

"Tia can certainly handle it, she did for a thousand years remember?"

"Right... I remember, sorry."

"Tis the past, come let us explore."

We wandered around town occasionally noticing things change subtly as we did the magic using Luna or I's memories, more likely mine I guessed but she had been here before a few times. As we reached the edge or town the road became misty and indistinct, undeterred we walked into it my vision swam for a moment and we found ourselves back in the field we had originally appeared in.

"That’s... Odd. Walk around the world..."

"Small world..." Luna smiled. "Well we could hardly expect her to recreate the entire world just for the two of us now could we?"

"True enough. Perhaps we should go to the library? Pass the time with a game or two before you sleep?"

"I'd like that."

Home, but not home... No galloping hooves, flapping wings, sisterly arguments... I smiled at the memory. No books strewn about left when Twi was about to put them away and got distracted by another book. Everything in its place, not even the tree smell I was so used to. Out of curiosity I opened a random book, then another and another. Blank, all of them.

I retrieved our chess board setting up a game at the kitchen table, I really should have known better... Luna it seemed had a great deal of practice, perhaps in her imprisonment...? But she was a great deal better then Tank and therefore I had no chance. Still I tried my best but after four losses I tactfully suggested a change of game. Cribbage I did much better at but by the end of our second game I could see her yawn a bit.

"Twilight and I's bed is quite large Luna, feel free to sleep here."

"Oh, I couldn't..." She blushed.

"Come on, it's just the two of us here. We should stick together right?" I smiled.

"R... Right..." She blushed even more though I wasn't sure why.

"I'll go take another look around so I won't disturb you getting to sleep. Sleep tight Luna..."

"Sleep tight... I mean, goodnight." She stammered bumping into the stairs jumping slightly then fleeing up them. She was definitely acting strange, probably just tired.

I wandered through town again amazed and still a little spooked at how quiet and still everything was, even in the dead of night Ponyville wasn't this quiet there was always something but this... I spun around suddenly I could have sworn I heard something... Nothing to be seen, just my imagination. I looked around some more picking out a few things to supplement our food and drink, even though their taste was lacking I got a wide array of pastries, fruit and vegetables as well as a couple cases of soda pop disappointingly they were flat but they still quenched the thirst. All throughout my exploration I still heard... Thought I heard sounds, scraping, doors opening and closing... Every time I investigated there was nothing.

I returned to the library embarrassed at how spooked I was getting just to reassure myself I placed a ward around the outer limits of the tree feeling foolish even as I did it but I still left it. I spent the rest of the afternoon wandering around the house bored but trying to be quiet, every book I checked was blank though I found if I kept it open concentrating on it words began to form but only what I would expect to see, I supposed if I concentrated long enough I would have a book but generated by my mind and probably pretty boring...

As evening or what passed for it here descended it got dark very quickly and a strange fog flooded the streets the street lights barely providing any illumination at all. I lit up the fireplace and plenty of lights as I heard Luna descending from the bedroom.

"I hope I didn't wake you?"

"Not at all, it was a relaxing sleep though it is strange here I cannot seem to access the dream."

"Must be because we're between dimensions you think?"

"That would make sense, oh?! You've done some gathering I see."

"Well I thought we might as well have a wide variety of bland food." I grinned.

"Even bland sounds good to me I'm famished."

We sat and enjoyed a meal together I didn't mention the weirdness I'd been experiencing a bit embarrassed and sure it was just my overactive imagination. We played a few more games talking a bit about what was going on in Canterlot and around Ponyville tactfully avoiding any discussion about Discord but mostly we talked about Star. Luna wanted to hear all about what she was doing and how she was getting along with everyone and I was more then happy to talk about her and Angel until I started getting tired.

Luna assured me she could keep herself occupied so I headed up to bed it was messy but I didn't care hardly ever bothering to make the bed myself and it irritated Twi to no end. I got undressed and got in the bed at least felt normal devoid of Twi's scent of course but instead filled with Luna's, not the same at all but still very pleasant, I still managed to easily fall asleep...

Kaboom! I shot straight up bumping into Luna lying beside me playing solitaire. "Oh! I'm sorry! It's just... It's gotten cold and I thought..." She blushed furiously as I chuckled.

"No that’s fine Luna..." Out of the window the wind howled splattering the glass with droplets as lightning flashed and thunder rolled. "What’s with the storm?"

"Not sure... It started not long after you went to sleep, perhaps you were dreaming about storms?"

"Um..." I tried to recall what I had been dreaming of but like so many times it disappeared from my mind as soon as I woke. "Wait, how would that matter?"

She giggled. "I told you, this world... Dimension runs on our perceptions and minds."

"Okay... Shouldn't it stop now? I'm awake... I am awake right?"

She giggled again. "You are I imagine it must run its course like any storm. Truly it is a nice distraction from them night’s unnatural quiet."

I stretched brushing against her causing her to shiver. "Sorry about that."

"It's fine!" She burst out turning away intently studying her cards.

"How long was I asleep?"

"Only about four hours, you could certainly sleep more..." A thunderous boom cut her off. "Or perhaps not..." She grinned sheepishly.

Maybe later, so tell me... If you can, you've seen Stars dreams I assume? Is she... Normal? I mean, I know she's ok it's just... Nagging at the back of my mind how my D.N.A. must have screwed something up..."

"You love your foal very much is clear, no less then any other parent. I don't claim to know everything about magic but I tried very hard to make sure you and Twilights coupling would be problem free..."

I squeezed her foreleg softly. "I know Luna, I'm not trying to imply anything and never think we don't owe you for this gift no matter what ever happens."

She blushed again and smiled. "Her dreams are perfectly normal for a foal of her age, fun and frolic the occasional worry but nothing lasting. I may have been watching over her a bit more then I should but should a godmother do any less?"

I pulled her over for a hug squeezing her tight. "Thanks Luna..."

She lingered a moment leaning against me then jumped slightly sitting straight up pulling away again blushing heavily. "I have to use the washroom!" She blurted out racing down the stairs.

She's definitely acting odd I wonder... KrackBoom! I jumped slightly, well who wouldn't be? I decided I wouldn't be getting any more sleep today and got up and dressed following Luna down making some early breakfast. Luna exited the washroom a few minutes later joining me in a simple breakfast, about halfway through eating and her eyes got wide as she pointed behind me.

"What’s that?!"

I spun around shocked at the Manticore staring at us through the window from the yard! I was taken aback for a moment but something wasn't quite right... First it was inside the bounds of my ward! I had enough faith in my magic that I was sure it would have warned me if something broke through it. Secondly its outline was a bit hazy like looking at something in the distance in the summer’s hottest heat. Third though it stood outside in the rain it didn't appear to be wet in the least but most damningly was Luna's adorable giggle behind me.

"Gotcha!"

I laughed turning back to right my glass I'd knocked over levitating the juice off the table into a floating ball guiding it back into the glass. "You sure did, I had no idea you were a practical joker Luna." I grinned.

"Sometimes, I used to be... Before... Discord and I got into trouble so many times..." She smiled but then hung her head sadly.

I reached over to brush her mane aside caressing the side of her face. "And you will again, believe it."

"I hope..."

"You will, if I have to drag him over to you and smack him till he sees the light."

She smiled. "Now that would be something to see."

We laughed together finishing breakfast, the rain slowed but didn't stop as the sky lightened up indicating mornings arrival though it was still drizzling, dreary and cool perfect for sleeping and before too long Luna was yawning.

"I shall see you this evening Rick."

"Sweet dreams Luna."

"Y... Yes... Thank you." She hurried up the stairs leaving me alone again; I puttered around a bit tired but not enough to go back to sleep yet. I ventured outside the light rain didn't bother me other then the strange feel of it. It seemed slightly oily and lukewarm, curious I caught a drop on my tongue but it was like everything else here bland if water could even be called that...

The rain had pretty much stopped as I made my way into town but a pervasive mist clung to everything hampering my vision and dampening sound. I searched around gathering a few more food items planning to head back it was still quite creepy out and not surprisingly the fog didn't help matters any suddenly I stopped dead in my tracks. I heard a shuffling footstep and then another. I was certain I had heard them this time and I froze turning slightly trying to pinpoint where they were coming from in the mist.

After a minute I was no closer to figuring it out when out of the corner of my eye I spotted a figure lurch out of the mist, I spun to face it truly confused. It was clearly a human...

"What the...?"

He... Or perhaps it would be more accurate to say turned to face me its face frozen in a snarl as its sunken eyes focused on me its mouth opened letting out a moan. A zombie? How could there be a... It moved toward me trying to grasp me but I could and did easily evade it.

"Very funny Luna, as if I wasn't freaked out enough." I did have to hand it to her though it was exactly what I would imagine a 'typical' zombie to be, slow, not too bright but unstoppable. I had no idea how she could know about them... My dreams perhaps, I had been a fan of zombies, movies, books and the such since I had been young and I could even remember a few dreams involving them.

It lunged again and I stepped aside, wait... If this was an illusion I suppose I didn't need to avoid it, it was very lifelike though... I opted for the safest option and kicked it in the back, if it was Luna messing around I’d end up on my butt and we could both have a good laugh. In the highly unlikely event it was real at least it would be knocked forward and I'd have some time.

That it turned out was a mistake... I really didn't think it could possibly be real and was expecting no resistance at all and when it hit a solid mass I was thrown off balance and both of us went sprawling, it recovered faster then I scuttling towards me, I might have been in shock but I knew what to do when a zombie attacked. I held it by the wrists my knees pulled up between us keeping its snapping jaws from my face. I released its hands pushing it away from me as hard as I could slamming it against a nearby wall knocking it down as I scrabbled to my feet grabbing the closest solid object a wooden mail box fairly solid, without hesitation I slammed it down on the back of its head as it tried to get up feeling the wood split. That didn't stop it so I did it again and again until there was nothing left of the mailbox and little of its skull.

I turned away gasping for air the gore and stench wasn't so bad, truly like everything else here the smell of the body was minimal though the splatter from the head wasn't... I turned back staring at the body expecting it to fade away, Luna to jump out or even just to wake up! But my pounding heart, adrenalin and the pain I was beginning to feel from the splinters driven into my hands were convincing me this was really happening.

My thoughts were interrupted suddenly by a soft moan and shuffling step behind me, then in front and all around! More lurched out of the mist male, female, big and small. I couldn't handle this right now, the stress and isolation must be getting to me, I idly picked bits of wood out of hands healing them while I tried to think and they closed in. A final shake of my head trying to dislodge these phantoms and teleported away. I collapsed to one knee quickly scanning the area as I tried to regain my breath; there was nothing in front of the library or anywhere nearby that I could see. I quickly entered locking the door closing and securing all the ground floor windows then renewing and strengthening the ward surrounding us.

I rushed upstairs with the intention of waking Luna and getting out of here somehow! I stopped at the top of the stairs, Luna was fast asleep her mane surprisingly in disarray as she lay half covered an adorable sight. I slapped myself across the face once and then again harder. There are no zombies, I'm just... Stressed, tired, lonely... Something, I yawned widely shaking my head feeling better about the whole situation, stupid brain. I slid in beside Luna back to back, I'm sure she wouldn't mind if I napped a bit, so... Tired...

I awoke feeling calm, warm and content, I could feel Twilights head on my chest and I stroked her mane and neck not bothering to open my eyes I leaned forward to kiss her soft ears. "Morning love..."

"Morning..." A voice whispered back that wasn’t Twilights.

Luna! We both shot up pushing away from each other blushing and embarrassed. "Luna! I'm sorry; I just laid down for a quick nap..." I glanced out the window noticing it was quite dark outside.

"Rick! I didn't mean to get so close!"

Suddenly I felt a pinprick in my side an indication something was trying to cross my ward... I blinked and found her staring at me.

"Rick... What is it?"

"Something’s coming, something’s here..." Dammit if only I had my blade, but I certainly had no reason to bring it here unless..." I checked the locked drawer beside my bed pulling it open there it was, like everything else here it probably wasn't what I was used to but it was better then nothing, I quickly strapped it on.

"Rick! Tell me what is going on immediately!"

"I... I'm not sure... It's easier to just go look, come." I led her downstairs and out the front door where we froze, there were dozens... Maybe even hundreds of them pawing at the unseen barrier powered by my ward even with them just pushing on it, it couldn't stand much more...

Luna frowned looking at them her horn glowed faintly then suddenly she sat down and giggled.

"What are you laughing at? We've got to get out of here!"

"Relax Rick, this is merely an extension of Tia's magic, it's..." She paused thinking a moment. "Remember I told you this world moulds itself to us? I have been distracted by... Other concerns, so it seems it has conformed to what you or your mind if you like thinks an abandoned town would be like... My mental discipline too would keep me from affecting things quite like this." She smiled.

"So... None of this is real?"

"Well, as real as we make it..."

"We're in no danger then?"

"I wouldn't say that, your mind makes it as dangerous as you imagine them to be... They certainly look... Unpleasant."

"Zombies... Walking human corpses driven to devour the living..."

"Ah of course, we have similar legends."

Pony zombies? I didn't want to think about that.

"Still I hardly think them to be a threat to the two of us..."

I looked over at her she had a devil may care grin her head thrown back mane flowing, quite a sight.

I grinned myself feeling a hundred percent better about this while situation, well zombies yes but at least I wasn't going crazy. "Well, let's do it."

"What?! Fight this horde? More may come, we might get hurt!"

"I trust you to have my back Luna; will you trust me with yours?"

"Of course, but..."

"Besides, what else do we have to do?"

She looked surprised for a moment then her grin returned as she nodded her head stepping forward. I dropped the ward and several stumbled in. I drew my blade and looked over to her. "Let's show them what we can do shall we?"

She reared up momentarily her horn glowing lightly. "Indeed..."

We turned to face them together screaming our way cry as we changed forward...

We were resting atop city hall eating some snatched fruit downed by the last of our soda both of us exhausted but laughing at the days exploits comparing zombie kills of the day. It had been two days...? Maybe three or more since we came here, time seemed to have little meaning in our fight to survival. Half of Ponyville still smouldered from the few times we got a bit too enthusiastic with our destructive magic, hundreds of corpses littered the streets, the buildings and even the outskirts of town but somehow they kept crawling out of the buildings, the mists and outskirts of town.

Amazingly neither of us had taken so much as a scratch which I was thankful for, I wasn't sure these zombies could infect us as much as that was a part of zombie biology as I knew it didn't mean it could be made so by Celestia’s magic, a chance I would prefer not to take. Not to say we hadn't had many close calls but thanks to Luna’s wings and her and I's teleportation we could always escape from any engagement.

Luna twitched beside me. "It's time."

I looked down, there was a small group of zombies but nowhere near what we had taken out before. "So soon? We can rest a bit more..."

"She smiled and nudged me gently. "Silly, I mean our time in this world is done. For good or ill..." Her smile faded as she remembered exactly why we were here.

Oh... right! Twi! Scootaloo! Star! They were in my thoughts every night as I fell asleep but I'd been so focused on survival, fighting and planning... It all came flooding back as the world pulsed again and again, faster and faster until everything faded away...

It was dark but a faint glow permeated wherever I was... We were? "Luna?"

"I'm here, Tia?"

The area filled with a warm glow, it appeared to be a large tent. Princess Celestia stood there looking at us strangely with a raised eyebrow. "Whatever have you two been doing?"

I looked over at Luna then down at myself, though it had rained a few times we were still caked with dirt, grime and probably a few other unmentionable things. "Long story Princess, I'm sure Luna will fill you in. More importantly how did things go here?"

Her horn glowed as she brushed dirt and muck off us from afar with a smile. "Very well, it took some time and a few... Misunderstandings. But Fluttershy did manage to teach Discord a thing or two about friendship. I dare say we have a ways to go yet but it's a start. The task is in your corner now, sister if you choose... He has been asking for you..."

"He has?! I... I'm so nervous... What if he's changed, what if I've changed?!'

"That is why I erected this tent shielding it temporarily from him; I want him to meet you, both of you."

"Alright that seems fair... Perhaps you could conceal yourself in the shadows Luna? Then when the time is right..."

"I could do that..."

"This spell upon the tent will weaken his powers but both of yours as well, be very careful and we will all be just outside."

We both nodded, I squeezed Luna's shoulder comfortingly before she melded into the shadows, that at least she didn't seem to have any problem doing. The tent flap opened and a tail entered followed by a long sinuous body varying parts to it and finally his head and I caught the end of the conversation he was having.

"Is this really necessary Celestia? I gave you my word after all, what is this some manner of test...?" He asked turning around as the tent flap closed behind him. His eyes met mine and he froze. "Human...?!" A crackling sphere of energy flew across the tent and likely could have turned me inside out if not for the Princess's dampening spell, as it was it threw me back several feet though it didn't knock me over feeling like a powerful electric shock.

I shook it off fairly easily. "I'm not here to fight you Discord."

He stepped forward stretching his body as he glowered down at me furiously. "As if I would take the word of a human! What is Celestia playing at here? Dampening my magic, is this some sort of a joke?"

"Your anger and hatred is what allowed the Miasma to take a hold of you before I imagine she wants to avoid such a thing happening again..."

He lunged forward seizing me by the throat, I didn't fight back I was sure if I was truly in danger Luna would intervene even against him if the past few days had shown me anything it was that.

"What do you know about that?! There was something... Just before they imprisoned me... Something important... Luna..." He shook his head glaring at me again. "What are you doing here? I may not have agreed with their decision but I know they sealed the way! How..." He stopped noticing something; he pulled on the chain around my neck revealing my medallion flipping it over several times. "What...? How...? Not possible..." He sputtered.

I gently pried his hand away from my neck dropping down. "I've been honoured by the Princess’s by them accepting me as one of their Knights, I definitely don't feel I deserve it but I try to uphold their ideals and laws. The humans you met so long ago... I won't lie and say we're totally different now, some things never change. But I'm not like them and I know many others aren't either..."

"Again the word of a human..." He sneered though he seemed less venomous then before.

"I don't know how to convince you, my word... Not just the word of a human but a husband, a father, a friend and a loyal subject of Equestria."

His confusion was clear no doubt not a feeling he was used to. "I... I don't know..."

"It's all right, I would like you to trust me but really there’s only one pony you need to reacquaint yourself with... My friend and the godmother of my foal... Luna."

I stepped back sweeping my arm out with a flourish hoping Luna would step out... She didn't, I sighed. "Luna... I know you’re nervous but this is the perfect time, the perfect place..."

"I know..." Her whispered voice came from the darkness.

"Luna! Please forgive me! I couldn't control..."

She stepped out of the shadows beside me. "I know. I know all too well…” She whispered her head hung low, she looked up at him with a smile. "But that is the past, this is now and we have so much to talk about..."

He nodded and they sat together as I quietly made my way towards the tent flap not wanting to disturb the peace.

"Rick..."

I turned back. "Yes?"

"Thank you, for everything."

"How can you be friends? You hated them nearly as much as I!" Discord whispered.

Luna smiled caressing the side of his face with her forehoof. "I've always known every pony was different now I know every human is too. Things started rocky, I'll tell you about it later. I'd like the two of you to be friends..." She held up a forehoof to stop him. "Just keep an open mind for now..." She blushed and darted forward to kiss him softly causing him to blush as well. "But for now, us. Let me start just after we parted the first time..."

I left them to catch up glad things turned out so well and hopeful they'd continue along that path. I had a second to blink in the still bright setting sun before I heard a...

"Dad!"

"Daddy!"

And I was bowled over by a young filly and a little foal. "Angel, Star... Oh how I've missed you two..." I hugged and kissed them both squeezing them tight.

"It was crazy and amazing dad! Discord was staying at Fluttershy’s; he made all sorts of mischief! The beavers got all mad and dammed up the river and there were all sorts of weird occurrences around town and Pan grew until he was ten feet long! He went on a rampage all through town licking every pony! Mom got him back to normal pretty quickly though." She giggled. "I'm glad I fed him the night before that." She whispered.

"Pan funny!" Star giggled making me squeeze them both a little tighter.

"Well I'm glad you’re both ok and everything turned out fine." I moved Star over by Scootaloo as Twilight walked up sitting beside me. "Hey love, missed you..." I kissed her softly but with some need that she returned.

"Missed you too... Why are your clothes all torn up? Did Discord...?!"

I pulled her close before she did something rash. "Long story, I'll tell you tonight, Discord was... Surprised to see me but he didn't react too violently..."

"Too...?"

"Well a little and I don't blame him really. Hopefully he'll get used to me... I wouldn't want to become a wedge between him and Luna. Any news from Alizarin?"

"Yes, Trixie is still staying there I think he's making progress with her... I hope she's getting over it."

"Well we can't do it for her; she's just got to make her way. But we can help... Enough of that. I want to hear all about what happened while I was gone..."

We bid Princess Celestia farewell as well as our friends before we started back home the four of us together and that was what really mattered to me, the four of us...

Interlude: Dreamscapes and Revelations.

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Once again she soared through the vastness of the dreamscape. She felt free, more alive then ever in her life. Every dream, every nightmare she passed suddenly found itself shaped... Changed to a happy restful dream filled with love and peacefulness. She did this almost subconsciously secure in the knowledge that her love laid with her back in her chambers watching over her, a month of getting to know one another again, falling in love again…

Suddenly she stopped; most dreams were an open book to her very few had the ability to block her out. One such lay before her, it had been closed... Guarded nearly all her life, her sister... Yet this night it lay open to her, she was nervous but excited, scared and exhilarated.

As close as the two of them were... Well a thousand years of separation cannot be undone in a few short years...

She approached with trepidation shaking with excitement and fear as she crossed the threshold... It was dark and dank, it took her a moment to orient herself and realize where she was. The dungeons beneath the castle...? That couldn't be, what could she be dreaming about down here...?

An echoed sob derailed her train of thought; she looked around trying to pinpoint it then started walking trusting in the dream to lead her where she needed to go. She passed down row by row of empty cells hardly ever used these days but to store supplies for the castle, each now filled with a deep darkness even her eyes could not pierce.

Her hoofclicks echoed down the halls as she found herself descending deeper and deeper past the worked stone of the castle and into the caverns deep beneath Canterlot, after the wedding of Cadence and Shining Armor she her sister and their guards had traveled through them seeking any secret entry points that might lead to the castle sealing them and warding the caverns extensively. The caverns were beautiful last she had seen them, large crystal formations and ancient mining equipment from days long past.

In her sisters dream though all was dark, the crystal formations twisted and jagged familiar and troubling to her. Down, down she traveled to the lip of a deep dark pit where it appeared eons of trash had been thrown disgusting and rancid but in the middle of it all she still shone... Even in her darkest despair she couldn't turn off what she was... What our parents made us... A beacon of light in the dark showing the way to the lost...

She glided down landing lightly by her sister’s side enveloping her in her wings whispering. "But what about when you’re the one who's lost dear sister?"

Celestia jerked upright staring at her sister her eyes damp and face mournful. "Luna...! How did you get here? Did I forget to...?"

"Tia... You know as well as I that I could never have come here unless you let me..."

She smiled wanly. "I know... I... I just needed... I try to be strong... But... I'm so alone!" She burst into tears burying her head in her sister’s coat.

Luna stroked her mane gently holding her tight. "Sister, for so long I envied you even when we were young... So talented, so powerful, the first to receive mother and fathers gift. Perfect..."

"Luna I..."

"Shh... That was then, a thousand years gives a lot of time to think... For both of us. I can see now since... Him. You've had no one... You couldn't let anyone back in lest you be hurt so badly again..."

"It's true... I've just kept going and going, striving and planning for the day I could rescue you... Keeping mother and fathers kingdom safe and prosperous..."

"Nothing for you... Well it's time, past time for you sister..."

"But the kingdom..."

"Sister... I'm not saying you need to abandon everything, just not do everything!"

"But..."

"No arguments. You deserve this, say it with me."

"I deserve this...?"

"You deserve this!"

"I... I do. I deserve this!" Her confidence and growing enthusiasm echoed throughout the pit, the caverns, the entire dreaming! Everything grew brighter and brighter to the point she had to close her eyes only to feel her sisters wings wrap around her shielding her.

"Luna... ever since the day of your birth truly it was I who was jealous of you." She whispered.

"Wha...?"

"Mother and father adored you, everyone loved you! They groomed me, had such expectations... You seemed so free... And you dragged me along into trouble more then a few times..." She smiled at the memory.

The light dimmed and she found herself in her sister’s chambers almost as they normally were, spacious but fairly barren. A small wardrobe for her accessories, a vanity and mirror and a large bed. Much like her own chambers there were several portraits on the walls of her and her sister as well as their parents and along one wall many portraits of Unicorns she didn't recognise except the last Twilight Sparkle...

"Who are these sister?"

She stood by her and sighed softly. "Former students gifted Unicorns all but of them all but only Twilight has the potential for..."

"Ascension..."

"Yes... I hope... No, I know she can do it but... Not yet. Anyhow!" She hugged her and stepped back bowing low to her. "Thank you Luna for always being here for me, even when you were gone I could still feel you watching over me..."

"S... Sister...!" She bowed back hastily. "You... You've never bowed to me before! It's not right; you’re the eldest, the more powerful..."

"My dear sweet sister, we are equals. Never let my... Abilities separate us, please..."

"Of course not...! I didn't mean..."

"I know." She sighed again leaning against her closing her eyes. "It's a burden Luna, this power... Sometimes I wish mother and father didn't... No matter, tis done. Only you and Discord and to a lesser extent Cadence could understand. How I have to be careful, so careful..."

"I heard at the wedding..."

Celestia stiffened for a moment then laughed. "Not one of my proudest moments..."

"What happened?! Surely she couldn't have been stronger then you...?!"

"No, it was my fault. I was shocked, stunned at how easily she had fooled me... Fooled us all!" She laughed again. "Well except Twilight... I attempted to defeat her using what I thought was an appropriate amount of power..."

"But it wasn't...?"

"No... I truly underestimated how much strength she had gained from Shining Armors love. When her power began to overwhelm me I couldn't compensate... Didn't have the time, it was too dangerous the backlash could have killed everyone present..."

"So she 'defeated' you?"

Celestia smiled slyly. "Completely... Twilight and her friends rushed off to get the elements while her little minions cocooned me while I was still stunned. I briefly considered breaking free and showing them a small measure of my true power... But Cadence and Armor were there not to mention the innocent ponies in the castle and the town below... It is hard sister... So hard..."

The room steadily began to warm up; paint began to peel from the walls the precious portraits bursting into flames. Though she knew it was all in her sisters mind and she trusted her with her life it still worried her.

"To keep all this contained... Why sister? I didn't ask for this..."

The stone itself began to melt around them; she avoided some dripping from above on general principle though she knew it couldn't harm her. "Tia..."

Her head shot up and just like that everything was back as it had been. "I'm sorry dear sister, sorry for everything."

"Don't say that Tia! You've always been the strong one! You've kept us safe, secure for so long! Especially while I was..."

Celestia hung her head. "Also my fault..."

"No... You did what you had to!"

"A thousand years? Luna, it was only supposed to be for one..."

"What...?"

"When I harnessed my strength to wield the Elements without you... I miscalculated! I was rushed; I didn't know what to do! I'm sorry I never told you! I didn't want you to hate me..." She threw herself against Luna sobbing uncontrollably.

She was in shock... A year... Her anger rose for a moment but only a moment and she enveloped her sister in her embrace. "There is nothing to forgive sister, we've both made mistakes..."

"No Luna! The miasma...!"

"The miasma had a part of it to be sure but it was my own jealousy and anger it took hold of..."

"But..."

"What? You feel cloaking all of Equestria... Half our world in eternal darkness is less serious then a miscalculation on your part?"

"If I only could have... A thousand years sister... A thousand!"

She smiled down at her sister kissing her forehead gently. "A drop in the bucket for us sister. I won't spend the next thousand in bitterness and regret, nor the next hundred or even one more minute! Mother and father saw to it we would be together through the ages trusting our love to keep us and Equestria together... I don't know if they foresaw what would happen to them... We mustn’t cheapen their memory dwelling on what could have been. Please Tia, just let it be and so shall I..."

Tears streamed down both sisters faces mixing and falling to the floor as they held each other.

"Thank you Lulu..." Celestia whispered with a grin at her childhood nickname for her sister.

"And thank you Tia..." She replied with the same grin.

They both burst out laughing for several long wonderful minutes sitting together on the marble floor conjured in a dream.

"We’ll find someone for you Tia..."

"I'm not sure... I'd like... But I think, for now... I'll be ok."

"Love you Tia."

"And I love you Lulu..."

They embraced again both smiling happily.

"Now kiss..."

They both looked up in shock. "Discord!!!"

Chapter 13 (Ever wonder what they were thinking? Part one)

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"Daaad!"

I sighed massaging my temples for a moment. "Angel..."

"It's not fair! How come you and mom get to go to the Crystal Empire again and I have to stay here?"

"You've got school still, Magnum and Pearl said you could stay with them again, Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom will still be here. It's only for a short while..."

"But... But... How come Star gets to go then?"

I sighed again, despite her tantrum or maybe even because of it she was so adorable glaring up at me stomping her little hooves, it was all I could do to keep from hugging her. "Star doesn't even start preschool until next year..."

"Okay... But you said it's only a short while, I wouldn't miss much at school! I could make it up easy, please, please, pleasepleaseplease!!!" She begged staring up at me with her big purple eyes wings beating hopefully.

She did have a point... She wasn't the best student to be sure but I doubted missing a few days would hurt any, and there were so many things I wanted to show her...

"Well..."

Her face lit up with excitement and hope quickly dashed by a voice from the door. "Just a minute there mister push over, you young filly aren't doing so well you can afford to miss anything. The Wonderbolts aren't likely to accept any prospects who flunked out of school." Twilight stated getting home with Star riding on her back.

"Aww..." She turned back to look up at me hopefully.

I ruffled her mane smiling to her. "She's right Angel, we won't be gone long." She hung her head her ears drooping breaking my heart, I knelt down pulling her close. "I know we promised to take you there and we will I swear, it's just bad timing right now. You know I wouldn't lie to you right?"

"Yeah..." She hugged me back with a small smile. "Love you." She zipped off to share a hug with Twi. "Love you. Come on Star lets play!"

"Play! Play Ootaloo!" She jumped off her mothers back onto Scootaloo the two of them wrestling a moment before they were off chasing each other around the house.

I got up coming over to give Twi a kiss taking the grocery bags from her into the kitchen as she followed me in.

Why do I always have to be the bad guy Rick? She sighed.

I smiled wryly nodding my head. I know... I’m sorry I just can’t say no to them… I tried really it's just hard...

I know, but we just can't give them everything on a silver platter, you don't want them to turn into a spoiled pair of brats do you? I seem to recall you weren't so fond of Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon...

They've gotten a lot better! But I know what you’re saying... And I know it can't be easy always having to be the one who says no... I'm sorry, I'll try harder I promise.

She stood up leaning against my back her head over my shoulder. That’s all I'm asking...

I turned around holding her close kissing her fiercely.

"I'm not sure but I think this counts as a fight, how about a little making up?" I grinned kissing and nibbling her neck making her gasp.

"Rick! Not now... Later tonight..." She giggled.

Since the re-emergence of the Crystal Empire and its strengthened ties with Equestria many things changed for both of them goods from each country passed back and forth enriching both. The Equestria games a once every four year occurrence normally only held in one of Equestria’s larger cities and even once in the capital city of the Griffin Empire, this year the Crystal Empire joined the considerations and it would be a tremendous boom for their just re-established economy not to mention showcasing the Empire to every visitor who came for the games hopefully promoting an influx of new residents and businesses.

Cadence and Armor had sent a request for Twilight and I as well as Pinkie, Rarity, Fluttershy, Applejack and Dash to come and see them and if we were willing assist in the preparations welcoming and showing off the Empire to the inspector for the games. Everyone was more then willing even Dash again being given permission to go. I felt bad for my little Angel but I had an idea how to make it up to her, if the Empire was chosen for the games and I thought it would be for its location alone! We would make a special trip here the four of us to see the games. And if they didn't... Well we'd still make the trip regardless.

The day before our departure I made sure to check the border thoroughly recharging each stone as I went, normal animal traffic all seemed well then I headed to the schoolhouse making it a bit before the bell, I waited until the doors burst open school fillies and colts racing home or out to play.

"Dad!"

A warm bundle of fur and feathers flew into my arms letting me hug her a moment before remembering where she was pulling away with a little blush embarrassed.

"How was school?"

"It was ok... You'll bring me a souvenir won't you?"

"Of course, don't worry you'll have plenty to keep you busy. Pan will be with you and you'll stop by to check up on Owlicious right?"

"He doesn't need me for anything..."

The two of them never really bonded not that they didn't get along but he was a very independent owl.

"Maybe not, but you'll still check right?"

"Yeah..."

"Is Opal staying with you and your parents Sweetie Belle?"

"She sure is she gets along well with mom thankfully!”

"Great..." Scootaloo moaned. "Um... Dad?"

"What’s up Angel?"

"I was thinking..."

"It was my idea!" Apple Bloom broke in.

"No it was mine!" Sweetie Belle contended.

"What idea?'

"Well... I thought... We thought maybe I could stay home rather then at Sweetie Belles..."

"Angel..."

"And then I thought I could come over and stay too! Too help look after the house you know?"

"Sweetie Belle I appreciate..."

"An it's only a couplea days so ah thought I could help too!"

"That’s a... Unique idea girls but it's a big responsibility and you’re all still quite young..."

"My mom and dad were ok with it! They said I should take Opal with me too! Something about learning responsibility..."

"I..."

"Me too! Applejack an Granny thought it was a great idea, they said ah could take Winona ta keep us company an fer security!"

I looked down at the three fillies still not convinced this was a good idea. All three beamed up at me their cutest and most innocent smiles and I crumbled...

"Well..."

It must have shown as all three hopped up into my arms knocking me over.

"Yayy!"

"Now just a second, I'll talk to your mom about it ok? That’s not a for sure."

"Ok!"

I was a bit surprised that Twilight was ok with this plan. "It's only for a few days Rick, Scootaloo is pretty responsible already but it never hurts to learn a bit more. Now that’s an idea..." She smiled slyly.

"What?"

"If Winona and Opal are going to be staying here anyhow perhaps Tank, Angel bunny and Gummy should stay as well? We know they all get along but we also know how crazy things can get, it should challenge the girls nicely don't you think?"

"You little vixen..." I kissed her softly. "But what about when their at school?"

"Hmm... Most of them will be sleeping but a few trips to show and tell might be in order..." She giggled.

"Sounds like a plan... Are you sure though? I'm not saying they can't do it but..."

"They'll be fine, worrywart." She kissed me softly with a smile. "I love how protective you are of her and all the Crusaders, adorable..." She giggled climbing atop me on the couch and cuddling close.

"I'm a big softie I know..."

"Well, unless one of them got hurt then I think you'd stop at nothing..."

"True, but that won't happen. Anyhow, we better critter proof the library a bit again don't you think?"

"Definitely! Ooh!" She shivered as something white crawled up her back to her neck poking his little head thru her mane sniffing. "Hello Pan."

I reached over to scratch behind his ears. "You'll be having lots of company for the next few days buddy."

Scootaloo had brought him on a few pony pet play dates so he was well acquainted with the others, he and Winona got along famously, Opal... Not so much, he was fascinated by Gummy sniffing him often as if unsure just what he was. Tank was slow and he was fast but still they were often found together heads side by side as they were talking about something... And Angel bunny... Him I thought we were going to have a problem with but I guess they both lived together at Fluttershy’s before and Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom all loved him so it seemed that was good enough for him.

We moved a few of the more valuable and old tomes into the study downstairs locking that door and making sure the rest of our home was more animal friendly not to mention three energetic young fillies! Magnum and Pearl as well as Big Mac and Inkie promised to look in on them occasionally just to be careful taking a load off my mind.

We were leaving fairly early in the morning so we all turned in early tucking our little Angel in (with Pan) snuggling down in our bed Star between us, she was getting a little better at sleeping in her crib she had slept two whole nights and more then a few partial ones even once or twice with her sister. I loved having them both with me gently rubbing Twi's neck and Stars chest as the three of us slipped off...

He was awake instantly, there had been a creak up above and he had learned that meant someone was getting up. He sniffed around nuzzling his one, his best friend and companion. She who fed him, played with him, loved him... There had been another before, Fluttershy he still missed her sometimes... Her kindness and loving nature, truly she had been as a mother to him so alike and yet so unlike his one now. She was brash and impulsive yet still kind and loving. He knew she was special when he first met her, her scent and voice but more so he could just feel it...

There was no sound of hooves descending the stairs so it must be the strange one; he'd never smelled anything like him. But he and his one had a bond of love and that was more then good enough for him, plus he was always good for a scratch and a treat.

He nuzzled her again giving her a lick before hopping down off the bed navigating his way through his new home there were scents everywhere, the tree itself the feathered one, in a different place an enemy but here a friend, his one, the little one so curious and loving, the one who smelled of papers, ink and the others and lastly the strange one, his family...

He knew his new home by scent, feeling and sound and it didn't take long to make it to the kitchen, the strange one was making the bubbling liquid his mate enjoyed every morning, it smelled pretty good but from his one stolen taste and scalded tongue it was far too hot to enjoy he couldn't understand how she did it.

"Gowd murhfge Pan." (Good morning Pan.)

He perked his ears up not really understanding their language, sometimes he had an idea what they were talking about, good, bad but mostly he couldn't understand. Fluttershy could communicate with him but not any of the others, well one word he knew well... Pan... His name... Given name, but he accepted it. He hopped up giving his usual greeting. "Dook, dook, dook?!" (Good morning, glad to smell you, can I have a treat?!)

The strange one lifted him up carefully sitting down and putting him in his lap stroking him and scratching behind his ears gently putting a slice of apple in front of him which he eagerly grabbed in his paws and munched on enjoying his scritches.

The strange one talked some more while he finished his snack setting him down with one last pat as he started making some sort of food on the big hot thing. He sniffed hoping for a little more but with nothing forthcoming his mind wandered back to his one, time to wake up and play! He scrambled off eliciting a chuckle from the strange one as his claws scrabbled on the floor until he got purchased and beelined for her room.

He hopped up the convenient steps she had put by her bed for him, she was still asleep. She was a good sleeper, not quite as good as him but still pretty good. "Dook, dook?" (Wake up, time to play?) He nuzzled against her squirming up between her forelegs resting a moment listening to her heartbeat, his favourite place to be... He was different then other ferrets that much he knew, smarter, more aware... Sometimes he wished he wasn't... He knew the ponies lived long lives and he might not even outlive his ones childhood... He sniffed her again wiggling a little higher to lick her nose; he'd be there for her as long as he could, as long as she needed him. That alone made it all worthwhile... He licked her again eliciting a small giggle.

"Pan..."

Her eyes opened and she squeezed him gently nuzzling him as he licked her happily.

"Lhgw gk gjc suem bwhacseca Pan." (Let's go get some breakfast Pan.)

He couldn't understand her but it didn't matter, she got up and he hopped on her back. She was his one and wherever she went so would he...

She woke up with a yawn and luxurious stretch, silk really does make the most comfortable of beds she thought. She heard the clip-clop of hooves approaching; her pet must finally be done in the water room. She spent an appalling amount of time in there everyday primping, preening and soaking in hot water of all things! Oh well she supposed she could forgive her, not everyone could have as much natural beauty as me.

"Opalescence! Mf nkd dkcsj!" She cried out. (Opalescence! My new dress!)

She let her chatter on a bit, it was important to pretend to pay attention to your pets concerns. So she listened a bit as she washed herself. That was enough, she strode past her pet and down the stairs to the kitchen glancing behind her she was pleased to see she was following obediently. She sat down in front of her bowls.

"Meow?" (Food now?)

"Oh Opal... Wndu ah I gehnd tk da whfb yne?" (Oh Opal... What am I going to do with you?) She sighed picking up the two bowls with her floatie powers bringing them back moments later one with her favourite food and the other with crisp clear water. She was about to eat but stopped, she supposed she should show some gratitude. She walked over rubbing against her pet’s leg favouring her with a small "Purr..." (Your mine and I'm glad.) She went back and started eating as an immaculately polished hoof rubbed her back gently.

This was the life... It had taken a lot of work and training but she finally had her just the way she wanted her, it hadn’t been easy at first meals at odd times, substandard toys and the like. More then once she was forced to show her... Displeasure. Even now there was the occasional lapse and with her interaction with the others of her kind and the little one... At first she had hounded her relentlessly chasing her, pulling her tail, her whiskers the gall! She was forced to give her a scathing hiss and several hard smacks with her paw. No claws though, as irritating as she may have been her and her per were family that much she could easily tell.

And she had learned her lesson, she finished her meal savouring the last few bites and the pleasant back rub she was receiving before taking a few laps of water then wandering over to her large downstairs bed that sat in the gathering room, it smelled of her pet and it always comforted her. She got comfortable letting her pet play with her toys, fabric and ribbon, shiny rocks and thread.

Yes, life was good...

They were going away, he knew the signs. Packing their bags, less time spent on reading and research, things for the baby gathered... He watched it all from above but he wasn't concerned, they had left before and doubtlessly they would again in the future they always came back.

He counted himself lucky, that one fateful night, that one moment he saw a piece of parchment fly by driven by the wind not the first time but the cry he heard from within the tree home it came from is what got his attention. He took wing and snagged it returning through the window it likely came from. The creature within was surprised and grateful, he'd lived near them for some time and had picked up a fair deal of their language so when she offered to let him stay he was happy to keep her company within the warm tree.

He made himself useful and she asked him if he'd like to stay, it was surprising most of the four legs just ignored him but as her companion he got far more attention, he didn't mind at all. There was a bit of conflict to start with, her small lizard got a bit jealous even going so far as to run away into the forest! Together they saved him bringing him home and after that they all got along fine. Then came the other one, a strange two legged creature the likes of which he'd never seen before, other then a formal introduction they hadn't spent much time together but he watched him carefully. He only seemed to have eyes for his companion the attraction between the two of them was clear yet they seemed oblivious to it...

Time passed and they grew closer and closer but still seemed to be denying in, he was almost ready to take matters into his own talons when they left one morning and didn't return for more then a week but when they did everything had changed... They were bonded then and to this day in ways he couldn't fully comprehend but they were happy and that was good enough for him. Soon after came the little four legs but with wings too, he quite enjoyed watching her as she learned to use her wings and once she had they spent many an hour together flying.

And then a short while ago came the tiny one, a true extension of his companion and her mate already he could see some of the best quality’s of both in her. And then there was Pan, the latest addition to the family. Out in the wild he either would have been a competitor or possibly even prey but here they could interact and had a few conversations. He wondered what excitement this trip might bring...

Morning! He stuck his head and legs out of his home and stretched slowly looking around at Fluttershy's home, it was still early but he knew she would be up soon. Some of her other friends were up as well a few flyers and tree climbers, he nodded to them and slowly made his way to his food and water dish's stopping a moment to look at the symbol emblazoned on the side of them the very same as on the flank of his 'owner'... Fluttershy always made sure to show her distaste at any animal referred to as property, he understood her feelings he'd known her a long time ever since she'd fallen from the clouds above and decided to make her home down below a few years later.

He's enjoyed living with her immensely but she had so many, who depended on her, he wanted... A friend, companion, someone who needed him and vice versa... And amazingly that chance finally came when Fluttershy’s friend was seeking a pet of her own and somehow she convinced her to let him try! He was surprised; this four hoof with her two beautiful wings was brash, bold and so amazingly fast! Pretty much his exact opposite but somehow he felt they had a connection...

It wasn't easy, he was in a contest for her affection with others who arguably were far better suited to being her pet. Failure after failure he suffered but he didn't let that deter him, it simply wasn't in his nature. He tried his best but things seemed bleak... Fate however, has ways of making things work out. He saved her... Well; he wasn’t so sure about that. He know her friends would have come for her soon after the others had finished the race but he wanted to help her so he did, he didn't expect any special treatment in fact he was sure he'd lost the race altogether but he just did it.

He still wasn't sure how but that moment... Something changed, she accepted him as he was, choose him over the others, made changes in her life for him! She got one of her friends to make a strange device that strapped to him enabled him to fly! She even moved her home aligning her bottom floor with a nearby small mountain creating a flat area to be her ground floor so he wouldn't fall through. They did all kinds of things together flying, swimming, she'd read to him and even though he didn't understand her he cherished it, he wasn't ashamed to admit he loved her...

He sighed and took a mouthful of food, but they were separated... Fluttershy tried to explain it to him and while some of things she told him he couldn't understand he knew what she meant. It was clear it was something so important to her therefore it was to him as well. He would wait, he had time...

Her legs twitched as she dreamed, chase and be chased, howl at the moon, the golden goddess... Her golden goddess...

"Winona!"

Her eyes flew open and she jumped to her paws ears cocked sniffing the air as she located her goddess's call then she was off like the wind, nearly everyday she got to assist her golden goddess. Round up the woollies, keep the big milkers in line, chasing off the hoppers, climbers and flyers. Anything that threatened the goddesses round shinys, they were tasty and she was allowed to have them sometimes not as good as her food but good and the goddess loved them so she would protect them with her life! Not everyday was busy though, sometimes just a long walk, lots to see and smell friendly hoovers all over and lots of attention, she loved it but her goddesses favour was all she needed.

She passed by the goddess in training's room she loved her too, so much like her goddess but still so different. Big red, she remembered being so intimidated by him his size and how quiet he was but once she'd spent some time with him she grew to love him too. Always time for a friendly scratch or to play the get the stick game no matter how tired he was after a long day. And his new mate, she was so nice and good to him and everyone in the family.

And the matriarch, all her life she'd been in awe of her. It was she who first brought her to her goddess, all the others in the family listened to her obeying her every command not out of fear or training she realized but love...

She ran up to her goddess jumping on her, licking her absorbing her love and affection and giving all she had in return until those magic words.

"A'hnsge Winona tjve tk work!" (A'right Winona time to work!)

She snapped to attention ready and willing for another day, any day, every day for the rest of her life happily following her golden goddess wherever she may lead...

Morning... Another day, another chance. He'd been stuck in this eternal battle for as long as he could remember. With his superior mind he should have been able to easily outwit her, bend her to his will... This... Pink menace, this... Pony. Every attempt thwarted and for all he could tell unintentionally! She had strange abilities, a rapport with every pony in town, that’s why he chose her with her strange powers and his brains he could rule this town and one day... The world!

But first some breakfast, he rolled off his comfy heated rock, when he ruled every home would be required to have one! Right, breakfast... He ambled on over to his bowl, ahh delicious pellets food of the gods. He mashed them up crushing them in his powerful jaws enjoying each crack when he was suddenly grabbed from behind in a sneak attack! Spun around and around until abruptly stopped face to face with his erstwhile 'partner'.

"Ghhe mherahe Gummy!" (Good morning Gummy!)

Gummy... Bah, a silly moniker but... well he supposed it really didn't matter if that’s what she wanted to call him as long as she used her powers for his benefit... But she didn't! Plan after elaborate plan foiled by her air headedness, her complete obliviousness and her other close pony friends... He played the fool and played it well, he was sure none of them had any inkling that the alligator with the blank thousand yard stare plotted the subjugation of them all!

"Wjst slfkn wf dh thvek Gummy?" (What shall we do today Gummy?)

He sighed as she swept him up hanging on for dear life as she galloped downstairs to converse with her patrons and play with their little infants... Admittedly they were very cute and showed the proper respect never pulling his tail or poking him though the constant humiliating cuddles he might do without... The rest of the day despite his best attempts to influence her were a whirlwind of packing, unpacking, trying on different clothes and even gathering up his own things. What could she be planning...?

Eventually he just gave up; sometimes she just couldn't be persuaded. Oh well, it wasn't the first time and it certainly wouldn't be the last. It was her tenacity and go-to spirit that drew him to her in the first place, that’s why he loved... Loathed, loathed her... Yes...

The end of a long day and she collapsed onto her big fluffy bed still entrapping him held tight to her warm soft chest, he sighed resigned to his fate snuggled against her. It wasn't so bad, not quite as good as a hot rock but it'd do...

He yawned feeling warm and cozy, another day, another failure... Well there’s always tomorrow...

"Good morning Angel, I made you some breakfast..."

He popped his eyes open smiling despite himself at the pony looking down at him, his pony Fluttershy. He held the honour out of all her animal friends to be closest to her. An honour he didn't lord over the rest... Well, maybe a little... He hopped up and they rubbed noses then she extended one of her wings letting him climb up, their morning ritual. He was always careful to keep how much he care about her under wraps, it wasn't that he didn't love her far from it but as long as everyone thought he was just a pain in the butt they'd never guess what he was really up to...

He knew how they saw him, a freeloading bunny who was a bit of a jerk too... Well he could live with that reputation as long as he could help her. Ever since he was a baby when she had saved him and his family, they had been on the brink of starvation the area they'd been living in couldn't support them anymore but they were too many and too weak to move to a new home...

Like an angel from above she came flying by and seeing their sorry state stopped sharing food she had bought for herself! Even more amazing was the fact that they could understand her and she them! Before too long she had them moved to nice meadow out of town but close enough she could come visit. One day he really wanted to see her so he snuck into town thinking she lived there and he found her but what he saw surprised him, the other ponies scared her, ignored her and just plain took advantage of her!

He wanted to help but he didn't know what he could do... He followed her home sneaking in behind her before she closed the door, he needed to be near her and somehow he knew weather she knew it or not she needed him. When she collapsed crying he couldn't help but hop over to comfort her, she was surprised but grateful, he stayed that night and they talked for hours though he was careful to steer clear of any conversation that would upset her. It seemed just having someone to talk to was making her feel better, he already knew he wanted to help her and made up his mind then and there to stay to do just that.

He knew his family wouldn't miss him they were... Well, ordinary. He never really fit in with them he was too different, and so it went years passed and he grew up she remained very reclusive but liked to think she was opening up very slowly with his help and encouragement. But one day things changed, she came home and told him about how she'd met a new pony and she had a baby dragon! Despite her hermit like existence her rapport with the animals and birds was often needed by the townsfolk and farmers nearby
to gently encourage them to keep away from flowerbeds, seedlings and crops as well her songbird choir was often sought out for weddings and special occasions so she couldn't avoid all contact with other ponies which he was glad of.

The next day she went to the Summer Sun Celebration her choir requested naturally but she didn't come home the next morning! Or the afternoon, nor that evening! He was becoming frantic with worry but the next morning she finally came back but again something had changed... She spun a tale of a returned Princess, lost elements and a new even closer bond with her four friends as well as a connection with her new one. She was so vibrant, excited and animated he was happy to see it. She backslid a bit after but he hoped with her friends and his help she wouldn't hide any more, and sure enough she came out of her shell bit by bit... well crawled out might be more accurate, he was there with her ups and downs sometimes he had to give her some tough love...

He thought... Well he hoped somewhere deep down she knew what he was doing, every time he made her stand up to him, admonish him it made her stronger... He started this journey just to repay her for saving him and his family but as time went on he realized as much as she might need him he needed her more. So he'd stay with her as long as he could just a pain in the butt bunny who loved an amazing yellow pony...

Interlude: Seeking a Love at the Beginning and End of the World.

View Online

It had been over a month since Luna had visited in her dreams that night and she was feeling like a brand new mare. She felt more confident and hopeful her dreams had been more pleasant, again however, she kept her dreams closed. Mostly for the purpose of keeping out a certain nosy Draconequus... But now at her sister’s urging she tried to keep a little more time everyday for herself. It was hard, there was so much to do and so many ponies depended on her but there were some minor duties she found that she could delegate to a few select other ponies, Luna and even Discord to a very limited respect helped where they could too. Ponies she knew she could trust, but still… She was alone, but her sister was happy, her little ponies were happy, that knowledge and the sunshine of this morning that made Canterlot almost shimmer in the sunlight, and as such she... Was happy.

The day court had ended early, too early. The 'little' tasks she had delegated though small had often taken up most time. Now it wasn’t even noon and her usual audiences, conferences and legislative sessions had finished. So she thought of her sister’s request and used the opportunity to take the rest of the day for herself. Ultimately though, her free time allowed her mind to wander back to her loneliness and other troubling thoughts; and she needed to be by herself. Throughout Luna's banishment and even before that, there was one such place where she could go when she needed to get away. A place she could go and let off some steam, using her magic to higher levels without the fear of harming anypony around her... The abandoned crystal mines deep beneath the city.

She teleported to her place of refuge, deep down in the caverns beneath the castle where no one would find her. She enjoyed walking among the formations. They calmed her, on more than a few occasions she brought Spike down here as well. Her little Spike who was up in his room napping away a lazy day. The baby dragon who she now thought of as her own son, who had somehow managed to find her down here one lonely and dark night, slipping down into an abandoned mine shaft, when he had first come and was still early on in his studies of what it meant to be a dragon. They had talked and opened up to each other as they walked along the majestic symphony of colors that was the formations of crystal as they had been illuminated by the light of her horn. Crystals apparently weren't as tasty as gems but he had a good time none the less, she couldn’t help but giggle at the thought of him pigging out on a small pile that they had gathered up, then carrying him fast asleep on her back all the way back to his room.

She sat down at her usual spot overlooking a dark chasm, conjuring viewing portals to various places around the castle and beyond. Her chambers, where the maids were just finishing up their meticulous cleaning of her bedchamber, her sister’s bedchamber where she and Discord lay entwined together asleep. He'd had no qualms about staying up at night to be with her, but she had to remind herself to be careful with that particular window; lest she see something that might disturb her...

Another window she opened was to The Crystal Empire where her niece and nephew-in-law were enjoying themselves as a family. Cadence was cuddling on a cushion with Prism, she gently nuzzled him on the top of his head as she read a fairy tale to him. Shining Armor ran around with Shimmer on his back, she was wearing his helmet which was far too big for her peeking out one of the eyeholes while her small horn poked out the other and she levitated a cardboard sword before her swinging wildly as she and Shining rode into imaginary battle against some mighty foe from the tale Cadence’s was reading.

Yet another view was that of Twilight, her faithful student... She could see Twilight laying on her side her beautiful foal at her side supported by cushions as she read aloud, as she watched her husband entered, Rick. Bringing her a drink and lying beside her as they shared a sweet kiss as her ran his hands over her massaging her back and neck as she read, while Scootaloo lay curled up at his side and the newborn... Starswirl, happily squealing and talking as he hoisted her up on his chest so the Sparkle family could all make the new foal feel happy and loved together.

Her heart ached with loneliness and longing watching these three windows and she shut them all very suddenly. The tears and silent sobs that escaped her was but a hint of the torment she felt burning in her heart and had felt for many, many years. Her thoughts wandered to Sombra as he had been; not the monster he had become. She wondered as she had many times if he could have ever forgiven her for teaching him the very magic that was his downfall... She shook her head trying to dislodge those troubling thoughts falling backwards onto her haunches on the cold stone ground with a sigh.

"Why? Why can't I have it too? I deserve to be happy... Don't I?" She asked herself aloud, her only answer being a faint distant echo in the darkness. After a moments concentration her face lit up, her eyes widened and small smirk formed on her mouth.

"I do... And this is the day!" Her horn lit up as she channeled ever increasing power flashing through spell after spell trying to find a way... As she did she pondered what kind of a mate...? Someone who would compliment her and she him?

A stallion? Perhaps a kind, gentle one like Somb... No. She wasn't ready for that even after so long... Even a Pegasus or an Earth Pony... Even if she did, she didn't want someone who would be intimidated by her, she wanted to be treated as a mare...

A mare? Truthfully she had thought of it, mares were usually far less docile, more independent than most males but truly her tastes had never ran that way...

A Griffon perhaps...? While strong and proud their society was nearly the opposite of Equestrians, male dominated and while they did treat their females well there was still a fair bit of sexual discrimination...

Or maybe even a buffalo. She smirked to herself, while definitely virile, they tended to be a bit dense as well as being somewhat xenophobic...

A draconequus perhaps. While her power and standing would be much less of an issue between them and they would have plenty of time together...

She sighed again spells still flashing by. Even if she could locate one and he was interested, it might just make things difficult with Luna and Discord...

Perhaps a Minotaur? Strong and firm, fairly intelligent with an eye for finances, though a bit egotistical and full of themselves. Theirs was a magic born race consisting only of males, any successful pairing with one of them could only result in a male Minotaur being born...

"Before even my time." She smiled thinking. "But I really don't know who could have come up with that idea." She giggled to herself. "Combining the traits of goats, bulls, and humans apparently... Humans?! A... A h-human?" The word hissed in a whisper of mixed emotions.

She put a wing to her muzzle and laughed slightly mocking the idea, and with a twinge of residual bitterness over the loss of her parents, she dismissed the idea as quickly almost as it had entered her mind. Surely it was the most ridiculous she could think of… Yet… Twilight and Rick seemed very happy.

Though she was sure that their relationship wasn't based on his race. Celestia's expression hardened, and she regained her stoic and regal composure, trying to stop these silly thoughts before they wandered too far.

"Not all of humanity is like him, but the barrier stands and it will stand until the end. More curious still though, is how Zecora managed to..." With that thought, Celestia lit her horn up and cast a spell teleporting her far away to the ruins of the old human embassy where she and Luna had first conjured the powerful shielding spell. With a flash, she arrived in the main reception hall of the ruined embassy, the old gateway still stood dominating the old hall. Looking at the charred ivory, the burned and tattered curtains and streamers lining the ceiling, the disintegrating tapestries and shards of metal from old destroyed ceremonial armor for both human and pony alike, she sighed at how it had all gone wrong…

"Over a thousand years ago I might have..." She wondered how could the relationship between their two worlds have deteriorated to that point? Why did they do it? Why? Why did they have to kill her parents? Was it her fault? Was it Equestria’s? Was it all of humanity that was evil, or was that band of filibusters just a group of bad seeds? She was convinced that was the case. Rick was a kind gentle soul and there had to be scores like him.

As she slowly walked down the ruined hall, treading lightly as if not to disturb whatever ghosts might be sleeping there, she made her way to the portal and began to examine it, she gasped in shock. It appeared to not be as impervious as she and her sister had thought! Gaps, cracks and gouges all along it almost like it was… Corroding and melting, and all of the damage was apparently done from the human’s side.

Were they trying to break through?!

Alarmed, she looked closer and found the damage to be almost completely random, almost as if humankind had been destroying its own environment for a thousand years and this was a part of the damage. She slowly turned her head away in disgust, charging her magic and preparing to repower and repair the shield when she stopped and looked at the damaged shield again. Not all of humanity is like him, Celestia's thoughts echoed...

She managed to dismiss her emotions, if Discord could get a second chance, then perhaps humanity could too, and though she had lived for so long truly her knowledge of the human world was next to nothing, fragments from long past...

"How has a thousand years changed their world, I wonder...?" She asked herself.

Slowly her curiosity began to take over, tentatively she eased her way to the shield in a matter of moments building her courage and approached one of the gaps in the barrier ready to pull back at the slightest threat... The first thing she discovered poking her head through was how weak the flow of magic was on the other side... It was almost like being pulled into a slight vacuum. The other side of the portal was vastly different than she had remembered. It was more like it had shifted and was now floating freely; randomly appearing in different parts of the human world.

The Earth was hotter than she remembered or at least this region of the human realm was, and the landscape was flatter, the air heavier, more humid, the soil here was dense clay. Her magic while limited here was still considerable but she felt if she tarried too long it would quickly deplete if she wasn't careful. She cast a small spell that would pull her back through the portal should her magic reach danger levels so as to prevent her from being trapped in the human dimension.

She sat clearing her mind freeing it from her body to explore faster not to mention unseen... Once the spell was cast she set out to see more of a world she hadn't experienced in over a millennium. Intrigued she flew forth flickering insubstantially from town to city to town quickly. What she saw both distressed and pleased her. She was impressed at humanity's massive cities spanning taller and more massive than many mountains in Equestria housing thousands if not millions of humans, cities starkly contrasting the natural surroundings, and distressed at just how many cities had engulfed the natural landscape they were given. It seemed humankind had put their faith in technology almost entirely.

The day passed to dusk on it's own, a sight that was both awe inspiring and unsettling to her, as she flew away from large cities, choosing to follow small isolated roads criss-crossing the land. She could feel distant 'hot spots' places where magic was still strong here, those would likely be dangerous so she avoided those letting herself wander randomly as she thought... So many humans, could there be among them one who possibly could accept her for who she was, love her, hold her and more? She was distracted by a large heat source, large and non-magical. A cluster of lights shimmering in the moonlight, a too small a cluster to be a city she could easily pass it by but could feel a sense of panic and desperation down below. She soared lower to investigate the situation, and as she got closer and closer a rambling and confusing maze of metal unfurled before her...

SLAM!!!

She collided something large and white... It was a pipe of some sort that she found herself attracted to in her energy form, there was an identical white pipe next it that stretched on into the darkness and as she looked on she could see a veritable tunnel made up of dozens if not hundreds of pipes, steel support structures, and strange long trays full of black vines or rather... Cables. There were lengths of orange painted chains hanging down in apparently random orders, and as she looked out towards her surroundings and saw she was standing in an above ground jungle of metal pipes bristling with various valve wheels and stems. That's when something off in the distance caught her eye. A sudden burst of light and flame shot out of two tall smoke stacks on the edge of this conglomeration of odd, tall, and dark structures.

The buildings of this odd place, illuminated by points of yellow and white and sparse red lights, elicited memories of her and her sister's castle decorated on Hearth's Warming's eve. To her right, a flame suddenly spit forth from a dark distant tower and was growing in intensity, becoming a spectacle rivaling that of even the mightiest dragon she'd stared down.

Off to her left she watched on as flames ripped from two tall steel smokestacks where a large group of humans had gathered around. The fireboxes of the furnaces that the stacks were attached to were glowing and the gathered humans were clad in heavy tan clothing and wore bright red helmets on their heads, though two wore yellow helmets, that denoted leadership as far as she could figure, and their faces were all hidden by strange masks that were connected to gray bottles they wore on their backs it was very strange.

Frantically they pointed at each other and seemingly random areas of the strange complex racing back and forth turning valves and grabbing black steam hoses to cool the rapidly spreading glowing spots on the metal. And off to her right again, just below the pipe rack she floated beside, three more humans two wearing red helmets and one wearing a yellow one ran towards a group of very large cylinders bristling with pipe, valves and ladders that seemed to be somehow connected with the panic that was going on.

One of the red helmets pointed to a platform up near where Celestia floated still entrapped by this labyrinth of strange pipes but unconcerned drawn to the drama unfolding down below. They patted each other on the shoulders, and soon the platform slightly wobbled and thumped as the red helmet ascended the ladder trying to avert disaster. The two other humans stood on the ground manning a red cannon like apparatus, though the cannon fired a large stream of water instead of any sort of projectile, as the two humans worked a valve handle on the hydrant.

As the human's red helmet came into view a voice crackled over a small box in one of his pockets. "Which vaporizer is it, John?"

She could only see the humans brown eyes through the mask he was wearing. "I don't know and Todd can't see anything on the board, the damn transmitters have been plugging off."

"10-4... John I need you to get down from there and isolate the propylene."

The human named John began hurriedly opening valves that added to an already massive flame erupting from a dark tower out on the opposite side of the complex, it was fascinating and terrifying all at the same time.

"The propylene valves on the ground are frozen solid, I got the PSV bypasses on the flare open, and the only other isolation is up here in the..." The human was cut off as the entire structure began to shake. He looked in disbelief as two relief valves next to him began to chatter, two loud pops and a hiss caused him and her to cover their ears as the relief valves lifted.

Panicked shouting began coming in over the box. "Mike! Godammit, open those back up you're gonna over pressure the vaporizers! John get your scrawny ass down from there!"

The human hurriedly turned and stared descending the ladder. As he climbed down metal bands holding the insulation in place on the vessels began popping and flying in all directions. One hit the ladder cage and caught the humans heavy outfit, causing him to slip and fall. He hit the sides of the cage hard as he fell until his equipment snagged and he was trapped hanging helplessly.

A loud klaxon began to sound as white vapor began to spray out of a the dome on top of the vessel, the spray quickly engulfed him before a jet of fire spewed from the vessel as the vapors ignited. Over the commotion that surrounded her she could hear the human begin to scream.

She knew it was not her place to interfere but she couldn't bear to see something so horrible happen to this creature. In a split second she flew herself down and teleported the human free out of the ladder cage and set him down on a deck half way down the ladder, shielding him from the flames.

She turned to look over his injuries trying her best to heal what she could with what was left of her magic, his gear was charred and smoking, the visor to his helmet was melted onto his mask, he was bleeding from his left arm from where the metal strip had struck him and caused his fall, his right leg was awkwardly contorted at the knee and was probably broken. As she tried to heal the worst of his injuries his eyes opened and widened a moment as he seemed to see her, that shouldn't be possible...

He looked at her with an expression, not of fear, or surprise, or even amazement; but one more of acceptance. As if he thought he was going to die and she was here to take him. He reached with his right hand and his charred glove to touch her his hand passing through her as she felt tears well up in her eyes.

As the sirens cleared a voice came over loudspeakers all over the burning complex. "Attention all plant personnel, attention all plant personnel, we have a fire in the number one reactor area all non-ERT personnel evacuate. All ERT personnel able to respond switch to channel three and report to the control room. I say again..."

She looked up as the voice repeated itself. the flame from the ruptured vessel was impinging directly on the one next to it. Bulges began appearing on the walls of the huge tank as the liquid inside began to boil. Pieces of metal and insulation began to snap off and fly in all directions as the pressure inside was becoming more than it could take and faster than the relief valves could vent.

She could feel her fail safe spell beginning to take hold her time here at an end, she didn't have time to help this human as she wanted the best she could do was teleport him to his compatriots running off in the distance, leaving the monitor spraying a large powerful cone of water on the flame impinged vessel about to rupture.

All in one instant the vaporizer ruptured spewing boiling flammable liquid in all directions creating a large vapor cloud, at that same moment as she teleported him her fail safe engulfed her, spiriting her away back to Equestria. The jet of flame ignited the hot vapors and caused a explosion that engulfed the entire structure in a massive fireball, she was pulled back across the portal into her body ducking just in time to avoid the plume of fire pulled along with her before the portal closed.

She could feel her power returning the moment she was pulled back and she charged herself with it casting a powerful spell repairing the shield and sealing off the two worlds yet again likely for another thousand years or more. Perhaps Equestria wasn't ready for contact with humankind and vice versa, would they ever be?

Exhausted and still fully on edge she sat and tried to composed herself. "It's ok, it’s over now. I hope, what… What was that?" Her breath caught in her throat with a small gasp as she spun around something had startled her out of her daze… A sound; a small high then low whine coming from behind her, which grew in intensity. She froze at the sight of a motionless figure laying crumpled on the marble floor of the chamber several yards away from her. After a few seconds the whine from the figure laying before her had changed suddenly to a high-pitched, cascading series of chimes.

“Oh no… How did…” Celestia placed a hoof over her mouth glancing back at the sealed portal before looking back at him. "I’m sorry..."

Chapter 14 (On a wing and a rail. Part two)

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Everything was packed and ready, tickets provided and sitting in my pocket sent by Cadence and Armor. The zoo was back everyone having brought their pets early in the morning eager to get them all settled in. No fights thankfully and we did our best to provide each of them with a place they could each call their own as well as plenty of space for them to play and interact together.

We said our goodbyes then not wanting to drag all the pets to the station having just gotten them settled nor willing to leave them all on their own, individually... Even a few of them not a problem but altogether... Well they could be handful.

Rarity and Sweetie Belle as well as Applejack and Apple Bloom hugged saying their goodbyes while the three of us hugged our own little Angel...

"Now Angel if you have any problems one of you gallop and get Magnum or Pearl, and you can always ask Miss Cherilee too, maybe als..."

"Daad! We can handle it."

"I'm sure you can I just don't want you to get overwhelmed..."

"They'll be fine love, they might even learn something..." Twi grinned.

"You bet!"

"Yu bet!" Star echoed giggling.

"We'll do great dad you'll see, you'll be proud!"

Her adorable determination made me smile. "We're always proud of you Angel, okay... I won't promise not to worry but I'll try." I scooped her up giving her a big hug and kiss.

The pets got their goodbyes too everyone would miss their companions and I was sure vice-versa. Together we headed toward the train station looking back once and waving.

"Ootaloo!"

"Bye Star! Be good!" She called back waving wildly.

"Ootaloo..." She sniffed as we boarded.

I gave her a squeeze and a kiss. "You'll see her soon baby... And you’re going to meet your cousins Prism and Shimmer."

"Guzinz?"

Twilight smiled. "You'll get along so well and we've got so much to show you."

It was a long train ride though likely a bit shorter than our first trip due to increased track and train maintenance. The Crystal Empire since its rediscovery was quickly becoming a very popular vacation destination, word was spreading and the train was filled to capacity. The eight of us had a cabin near the back of the train but we discovered it only had six bunks. Undeterred Twilight simply levitated one of the mattresses onto the floor where the three of us could settle down comfortably.

We all chatted as we watched the scenery fly by excited by the prospect of returning to the Crystal Empire and helping Cadence and Armor, as busy as we were going to be I was sure the girls were going to be even busier...

"There they go..." Sweetie Belle sighed.

"Well we better git ready fer school!" We got special permission ta each bring one pet ever day... Ah'm bringing Winona!"

"Well, I'd bring Pan but he usually sleeps when I'm gone... I'll bring Tank!" Scootaloo giggled.

"And I'll bring... Um..." She looked over at Opal who scowled at her briefly then turned and strutted away ignoring her. "Um... Angel bunny?" She smiled hopefully as he perked up his ears hopping over to her letting her pick him up and give him a squeeze.

"Ok that's settled, an tomorrow we'll bring three others!"

"This is gonna be great!"

"Yeah... But we still need to feed them and make lunches for us..."

All three of them gasped and looked at the clock jumping.

"Ahh! We’ve only got twenty minutes!"

"Hurry, hurry!"

Food was quickly doled out and fast and easy lunches put together and they were out the door and away! Sheepishly returning moments later to collect Winona, Tank and Angel bunny...

Owlicious swooped down from the window upstairs perching on the back of the couch. "Their gone."

"Well finally, honestly my pet clearly still needs more work. This is the second time she's left me here, and in the care of those three! That settles it, when she gets home a hairball right in the middle of her bed, she's really left me no choice..."

"Who are you talking to?"

"Certainly not your feathers, or this furry tube..." She gestured at Pan curled up asleep on the couch. "And as for you..." She glanced at Gummy resting on his rock suppressing a shudder. "Why did they have to take my Tankie wankie instead of one of you? At least I'd have someone to talk to and we get to see each other so rarely, once a week really isn't enough..."

"Or far too much... No idea what he sees in her...?” Gummy mumbled under his breath crawling away.

"Oh? Are you still pretending he has a thing for you? And here I always thought he fancied Winona..." Owlicious smirked taking wing.

"What?! That... That bitch?! How dare you imply...!" She trailed off realizing Owlicious was teasing her and more so that he was out of reach of any repercussions she might levy. "Humph..." She sauntered over to the kitchen jumping up onto one of the chairs and curling up ignoring him.

"Touchy..." He chuckled landing on his perch by the fireplace. "And how are you there Gummy?"

He flicked his eyes to him for the briefest of moments before resuming their distant and practiced stare. "Gummy good... Sleepy..." Damn bird sees too much... He silently cursed as he laid his head down on his comfy rock closing his eyes.

Owlicious watched him a moment longer, he's definitely not as dumb as he appears... I wonder just what he's hiding? He yawned making himself comfortable, well past his bedtime anyhow, time to get a little rest before those three get home and things get really interesting...

"We're home!" Three filly's burst through the door Winona by their side and Angel bunny on Sweetie Belles back, Tank similarly on Scootaloo's.

"Okay we need ta give em some snacks..."

"And clean up!"

"We'll be responsible they'll see!"

"Well duh, they would never have left us alone if they didn't..."

And just like clockwork came a knock at the door, it popped open and Big Mac looked in Inkie beside him a basket of groceries balanced on her back.

"Checkin up on us already big brother?"

"Eeyup..."

"Aww... An here I thought they trusted us!"

"They do sweetie, their just being careful..."

"Well as you can see nothings gone wrong at all!" Scootaloo stated tactfully quickly stepping over to block view of Opal sharpening her claws on the couch.

"Hmm..."

"Now Mac..." Inkie giggled. "We all know you three can handle a lot of responsibility but some situations require an adult understand?"

"Yeah..." All three of them echoed.

"An ya'll will ask if you need anything right?"

"Ok brother."

"Yes Big Mac!"

"Thanks for looking out for us."

"We'll see you later then!" Inkie called out as they turned to go.

"Bye!"

"An don't be forgittin your homework..." Big Mac called back with a grin.

"Aww..."

"Dang..."

"What? I like doing homework, Rarity usually comes over and... Oh..." Sweetie Belle hung her head sadly.

"It's ok Sweetie Belle, we'll help each other! But first things first. Snack time!"

Owlicious watched the three excited fillies a moment before focusing on the three returned pets below. "So how was the school?"

"Well..."

"It was great! So many scritches! So many hugs! So many treats from lunches!" Winona burst out interrupting Tank.

"Yeah it was ok, the treats especially." Angel casually remarked.

"It was nice, so may energetic young ones..."

"You know it! I chased the ball so much!" She sat down panting slightly as Opal strutted up having taken a detour around to avoid the fillies.

"Tank darling!" She gave Winona a look before interposing herself between the two of them. "I missed you! I hope those beastly children didn't hurt you...?" She rubbed against him with a small purr.

"Not at all, a few were curious about me but most of them were distracted by Winona and Angel..."

"Yup..." Angel hopped up onto the couch stretching out and relaxing. "But who could blame them? So many bits of leftover lunches I'm stuffed..."

"Oh yeah! Me too, I couldn't eat another... Ooh! Look! Treats!" She tore off toward the kitchen joining Pan who had woken up as soon as they had gotten home and was now perched happily on Scootaloo's back as they gave treats to each pet as they came over.

The rest of the afternoon the girls did a bit of cleaning up, the house wasn't too dirty but with all the pets visiting there was plenty of extra fur, feathers and even scales being shed. They also made plenty of time for the pets, play and attention even Opal allowed them to stroke her a few times...

As evening fell they made sure each pet was fed before eating themselves spending reluctant time with their homework as well before bed.

Pan waited until he was sure all three were asleep before wiggling out of his ones warm embrace. He snuck out of her bedroom where all three of them were bedded down into the open tree.

"All asleep are they?" Owlicious asked from above.

He jumped slightly not able to smell or hear him up there. "I asked you not to do that!"

"Sorry..." He chuckled.

"Yes they finally fell asleep, a bit later than usual, must be the excitement of being together."

"I'm sure, well the others are still up too though Opal has been complaining nonstop..."

"Sounds like her." He chuckled, in a moment they reached the fireplace where the others were catching the tail end of another of Opals tirades.

"...and another thing, I need my beauty sleep..."

"But ya slept almost all day! How d'ya get any work done?"

"Work?!" She looked at Winona like she was insane. "Why would I want to...?” She shook her head remembering who she was talking to. "Just small naps Winona to refresh myself."

"Well I guess I can't argue with ya there I'm plum tuckered..." She yawned widely.

"I'll be ready to sleep soon too but Owlicious wanted to tell us something..." Pan bumped into Tanks shell reorienting himself and taking a seat beside him.

"Well hurry it up, I'm tired too." Angel commented already comfortably stretched out on the couch.

Owlicious cleared his throat nervously. "Um... Yes. As you know they've left us in the care of the three young ones..."

"An indomitable situation if there ever was one! I have half a mind to..." Opal got a bit worked up but then trailed off sitting back down when Tank patted her paw comfortingly.

"Thank you..." Owlicious nodded. "While it might not be what we're used to, our life friends entrusted us to them and them to us and I for one think that is very important to note..."

"Hmm... I guess you’re right, I hadn't thought about it that way. They've always been good to me so I guess it's natural I treat them the same..." Angel yawned and nodded in agreement.

"Well ya... The goddess in training's always good ta me ah trust her... Wait a moment, Fluttershy's always been so good ta you but you’re not always so nice..."

Angels eyes narrowed for a moment before he rolled over ignoring her. "That's none of your business Winona."

"Ya but..."

"Let it go Winona..." Pan knew very well Angel wasn't nearly as tough on Fluttershy as everyone thought but for whatever reason he tried to keep his feelings secret. He didn't know why but it didn't really matter. "Angel has his reasons leave it at that."

"But..."

"We all care for Fluttershy Winona." Tank smiled. "Some of us just show it differently than others."

"Alright, alright..." She turned in a circle a few times settling herself back down onto the floor.

"Right... Again, thanks. I was just thinking if they trust them to take care of us then we should too right? Their still earning I know but we can help them, teach them even train them a little..." He chuckled.

Gummy's eyes widened for a moment a small smile spreading across his face. Yes... Training... He could see it now, trained minions for him with the Pink one and their unstoppable powers of 'cute' he could rule it all! Suddenly he became aware that everyone was staring at him, the chuckled he hadn't even been aware he was emitting cut off and he cleared his throat blushing. "Gummy agree... Be nice to them..."

"Yes, Gummy's... Enthusiasm aside we can't be too accommodating, they certainly do need some training quite badly don't they?" Opal giggled stretching.

"A little kindness and understanding goes a long way isn't that what Fluttershy says?" Tank added nudging Opal gently.

"Well... I suppose."

"Good points everyone, are we agreed then? We'll take it easy on them, but not too easy...?"

They all looked around before nodding together. "Agreed."

"Well then if I'm to enthrall the young ones tomorrow with my beauty I had best get my sleep. Goodnight Tank." She rubbed against him a moment before looking up remembering herself. "Goodnight all." She strutted off to her bed.

"My one calls to me too and I had better get some more sleep if I'm going to have to be up extra tomorrow. Night all." Pan scampered off towards Scootaloo's room as Angel stretched out on the couch getting comfortable. "See ya in the morning."

Gummy crawled away to his rock without a word but they were all used to his odd ways.

"Ah'll see ya'll tomorrow too, it's gonna be fun!" Winona grinned skipping over to her own well-worn bed.

"And you Tank? Headed to bed?"

"I don't need much sleep really, care for a game or two?" He inclined his head over towards the chess table.

"Why not, I'll need a little nap later if I'm going to join the girls at school tomorrow. But for now, let's play..."

Pan snuck back through his bolt hole and was surprised to find his one awake rustling a paper something, she often stayed up reading and giggling after bedtime telling him stories he couldn't understand but loved to hear nevertheless.

He quickly hopped up onto the bed snuggling up close to her finding damp spots on her fur, he sniffed and tasted tears...?

"Of tjdhdw ynf aje Pan, lhes mds ahg dke swbh mf a ljebej..." (Oh there you are Pan, look mom and dad sent me a letter...) She sniffed giving him a squeeze. "I gjedc yje cfm'd lejd sjey..." (I guess you can't look sorry...)

He couldn't make out her meaning but her sadness was clear and he knew what to do about that, he crawled up onto her rubbing against and licking her until he heard her giggle putting aside whatever she had been holding. "Tkdnhs Pan, I mdhh tjeg. Ensj Shed..." (Thanks Pan, I miss them. Even Star...) She yawned cuddling down with him between her forelegs. "Nfhdt Pan." (Night Pan.)

He nuzzled against her getting comfortable, sleep tight my one...

On her nightstand a simple scroll unfurled blown by the breeze from the window the end secured under her alarm clock...

Our Dearest Scootaloo

One day apart and we miss you terribly, Star has been asking for you constantly she really misses her big sister!

We hope you're doing well and have had no problems but if you do we know you'll be able to handle them.

Another day will find us in the Crystal empire and two more to help with the preparations...

It all seemed like such a short time when we were planning...

We'll write you every day and let you know what we're doing and we can't wait to come home and hear all about what you've been doing.

Love you, Mom

Love you Angel, Dad

(And at the bottom a mass of indecipherable scribbles from her sister.)

The next morning three sleepy fillies dragged themselves out of bed quickly cleaning and waking themselves up before making breakfast and feeding the pets as well as taking care of any 'business' that needed to be taken care of.

They were surprised to find Owlicious, Opal and Pan all waiting together as if they somehow knew they were next to go with them to school!

School was loud! So many voices and so many smells it was more than he could comprehend but safe on his one's back he could manage. Plenty of pats and strokes some rougher then he was used to but her voice rang out admonishing them, some came close and to them he gave friendly licks receiving giggles and even a soft kiss or two in return. After a while a different voice rose above the others, older but soft and sweet and everyone quieted down.

Owlicious perched himself atop the coat rack watching with interest while Opal made herself comfortable down below, Pan was curled up in Scootaloo's desk tired from the mornings excitement, the desk smelled of papers, ink the occasional smuggled treat and his one... He had no trouble falling asleep.

Recess, lunch and another recess each of them had the chance to show their special skills from Owlicious's aerial skill, Pan's goofy antics and Opal's... Well Opal's beauty and grace. Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon were especially impressed by her gently stroking her fur and encouraging others to do the same.

At the end of the day they carried the pets back to the library all of them tired but a good kind of tired after the day’s excitement. As soon as they opened the door Winona was there tail wagging happily.

"Aww, didja miss me girl? Ah missed you too!"

Owlicious flew up to his high perch where he often slept the day away as Apple Bloom took Winona out for a quick walk and Scootaloo tucked the already asleep Pan into her bed, Opal hopped off Sweetie Belle stopping a moment to rub against Tank before waiting in front of her bowl patiently.

"Everyone was impressed weren't they?" Sweetie Belle squeaked while filling up pet bowls starting with Opals.

"You bet! I think the pets had fun too!"

"Ah know it! Kin we bring Winona again tomorrow? Ah think she was bored cooped up in here all day..." Apple bloom asked coming back inside with Winona at her heels.

"Sure! Gummy hasn't had a turn either and who else..."

"Angel! He's soo cute and sweet everyone just loves him!"

Angel apparently agreed as he hopped up onto Sweetie Belle's back snuggling against her with a smile. The girls cleaned up a bit gathering together in the kitchen to make some snacks talking and giggling together as the pets finished eating and gathered together in the living room.

"So how was it? You don't look too disturbed Opal."

"It wasn't nearly as bad as I feared Tank darling, they were quite gentle. It was a nice surprise."

"Did you play? Did you run and chase? Chase and run?!"

"No... Honestly Winona it's as if you don't know me at all..."

"I did do a bit of swoop and chase with the young ones it was quite fun and witnessing their teaching methods was also very interesting."

"Uggh... Is that what that was? Sitting and talk, talk, talk...! How'r they supposed to learn from that? They need to get out and experience to learn!"

"They learn differently than us Winona, they rely less on instinct and more on teaching, books and the like."

"Very true Tank, and it seems often they still need us to teach them a thing or two... Gently of course."

"I suppose Opal... Frankly I'm often surprised at how much I learn from them even just watching them." Owlicious nodded.

"Your right, it's amazing how hectic their lives can be." Tank agreed.

They all nodded in agreement even Gummy he knew all too well how crazy the pink one’s life could get.

"We're all pretty lucky I think to have such special ones in our lives."

"Darn straight Owlicious!"

"I agree, I know I give you all a hard time... Alright everyone! But I am grateful to have such a special friend as Fluttershy..." Angel blushed slightly.

"And...?" Tank grinned.

Angel rolled his eyes with a sigh. "Fine... You all too..."

Everyone laughed but all nodded in agreement again.

"Well I'm bushed. Good day to you all, see you later this evening." Owlicious soared back up to his high perch.

"I could use a bit of a nap myself... Tank, come talk with me a bit?"

The two of them wandered off to Opals bed side by side talking quietly.

"Whatta you want to do Angel? Run? Play? Wrestle...?!"

Angel sighed, he liked Winona but her enthusiasm was a little overboard sometimes. He rolled over retrieving something from between the couch cushion's a small red ball, he held it up. "Want the ball Winona? Go get it!" He tossed the ball towards the kitchen snickering as Winona tore off after it at full speed.

"Winona!!!"

After a bit of cleanup from Winona's over-exuberant charge Apple Bloom and Scootaloo took her out to burn off some of that excess energy while Sweetie Belle tided things up and did some tail fluffing for Angel.

While they were eating dinner another scroll arrived Twilight's neat script telling them all about how the trip was going and the challenges they thought were ahead to get ready for the inspector and how much they missed them.

"Wow, do you think they'll be able to convince her?"

"Come on Sweetie Belle! With my mom and dad there, Rarity, Applejack, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash! How could they not?!"

"Darn right! Ah wish we could see it..."

"I know we will someday!"

"Yeah..." All three of them daydreamt a moment imagining the possibility's.

"You know..." Sweetie Belle opened her eyes and grinned.

"What?"

"Twilight and Rick did leave you a lot of bits..."

"So...?"

"Well, we could go to the Crystal Empire... You know, to meet them!"

"Ah'm not so sure about that..."

"It'd be nice Sweetie Belle but I don't think..."

"Yeah... Ok... I just miss them."

The three of them hugged sighing and sitting down with Winona and Angel snuggling close. They did a bit of studying taking short breaks to play with Winona, Angel and even Tank who had come back over after Opal had fallen asleep, Gummy too got dragged along even though the girls found him strange Pinkie loved him and that was good enough for them.

They all slept well that night dreams of the Crystal Empire dancing in the three fillies heads, simpler more primal ones in the pets.

The next morning things went smoothly the girls seeming to have gotten the hang of things and with the pets cooperation (mostly) they were ready to go in record time. Gummy, Winona and angel going this time, with them gone the library was quiet. Owlicious and Pan asleep, Tank and Opal talking quietly over many a game of checkers a surprising number of which she won giving an excited squeal as Tank smiled knowingly complimenting her prowess.

Before too long the school day was done the girls and pets returned home happy to be back after a long day.

Gummy was intrigued, so many young ones and all so adorable and full of energy, possibility's... If he could somehow harness their power along with the pink ones near inexhaustible supply... He settled down on his rock a wide grin on his face, yes... Possibility's...

Winona waited at the goddess in training's heels, school time was great fun, all the little one's so cute and friendly, hugs and scritches but... She missed her goddess, spending time with her, helping her with anything she needed, she sighed. Soon she hoped, soon...

Pan perched on his ones back having awoken as soon as she got home, it was nice having the others here but to be honest he was a little tired of sharing her attention with the others. Selfish he knew, no matter soon enough everyone would be in their own homes and things would be as they were...

Opal sighed stretching rubbing against Tanks hard shell, strange he was only as warm as the environment around him but she still was more than happy to lay beside him. As unpleasant an experience as this had been left in the care of... Them, odd mealtime and ugh, canned food she was still having a very good time. Having so much time with her Tankie-pie was a big part of it to be sure but she was even finding the others tolerable. Still she missed her pet, the cute things she did everyday walking up so disheveled and prettying herself up for her every day! Just a few more days Owlicious said...

Tank jumped slightly in his shell feeling her soft caress, he remained in his shell feigning sleep though truly he hadn't slept a wink since they laid down together for one of her many daily naps. What am I doing? What is she doing? Try as he may he couldn't comprehend her attraction to him, vice-versa wasn't too hard to see though she might be a bit... Difficult, she was beautiful and vivacious things he definitely... Wasn't. He was quite sure the others looked at them together strangely and he couldn't blame them heck he wasn't even sure what was going on. Well he smiled to himself, a few more days and things will be back to normal, might as well enjoy it...

Owlicious stretched comfortably up on his perch, it was fascinating the dynamics similarities and differences within their group and the ponies, despite the huge differences between them. He was glad to see everyone getting along so well, during their weekly pony / pet 'playdates' there was often a clash or two usually between overly rambunctious Winona and Opal. He was used to things being more quiet... Well since the little one came the noise levels had increased but certainly not to these levels...

He chuckled, a few more days...

Angel twitched slightly, he was napping, dreaming... He saw Fluttershy without her friends, bullied, pushed around, in danger! And he couldn't do anything... He didn't fool himself, he knew he couldn't stop anyone from being mean to her but he could and did help her toughen up, be more assertive! It was an uphill battle he knew but every time he saw he do something courageous, stand up for herself and her friends... Something so out of character for her he liked to think he helped... At least a little but she was so far away... He awoke with a jerk, Fluttershy! He gasped trying to catch his breath, a dream? Just a dream... But... What if it wasn't...?

"So what should we do tonight girls?" Scootaloo asked.

"We got all weekend to do our homework!"

"An the house is lookin good!"

"Exactly! We can have some... Angel bunny? What are you doing?"

Everyone's attention was drawn over to the door which he had managed to partly open standing half in and out a confused and concerned look on his face.

"Angel bunny...?" Sweetie Belle gasped as he turned his head away ashamed squeezing out the door and hopping away.

"Wait!" Scootaloo raced out after him returning a moment later. "He's gone!"

"We gotta find him!"

"I know, I know..." Scootaloo got a determined look in her eye. "Let's get ready and go find him! Fluttershy's counting on us!"

"Winona kin track em down, right girl?"

Winona barked happily licking Apple Bloom but casting furtive glances at the door.

The girls quickly got their saddlebags on packing snacks for themselves as well as the pets not wanting to leave anyone home unsure of how long it would take to catch up to Angel. They gathered up all the pets putting their collars and harness's on attaching Tank's flying apparatus before heading out together Apple Bloom letting Winona sniff Angel's bed before she was out the door like a shot half dragging her and everyone else on her heels.

"He must be homesick!"

"But Winona's takin us into the middle of town..."

They wove between buildings doubling back and taking strange turns almost as if he knew they'd be following him! But Winona's nose was too good, she led them through every twist and turn with only the occasional stop in a busy area to reorient herself. As evening descended they were all getting tired and irritable when Winona finally stopped and they found themselves at the train station.

"What would he be doing here...? Wait! There he is!" Sweetie Belle squeaked pointing towards the train.

Everyone turned just in time to see his long ears disappear behind one of the windows. They rushed toward the train only to have their passage blocked by a stern conductor.

"And where do you think you’re going with this menagerie?"

"We just need to get on a moment and grab our wayward bunny..."

"A likely story, it's fifteen bits for each of you and five for each animal with a twenty bit charge for no proper carriers..."

"But..."

His unimpressed look left no question to his feelings on the matter, with a heavy sigh Scootaloo dug through her saddlebags counting out her bits eliciting a surprised grunt from the conductor as he doled out their tickets clicking each of them in turn.

"Make sure you keep your pets in line and cleaned up after, you’re liable for any damages they cause..."

"We just need to..." Scootaloo sighed again realizing the futility of it all. "We will sir."

They quickly boarded galloping to where they last saw Angel but no such luck, they began to search car by car disappointed again and again but Winona kept sniffing and sniffing despite the other passengers and the delicious smells coming from the dining car she led them further and further to the back of the train where they finally found him hiding in a small fort made out of luggage.

"Angel bunny!" Sweetie Belle scolded.

"Why'd ya run off on us?"

"You’re going to get us into..."

A loud whistle sounded and the train suddenly jerked into motion an announcement coming over the speakers. "Canterlot express Ponyville direct to the Crystal Empire nonstop."

"What?!" All three of them cried out.

"Quick we gotta..." Apple Bloom leapt forward to grab angel but he easily slipped between her legs, the jerk of the train had apparently spooked the other pets too as they all tried to move in different directions pulling the girls every which way, in the few minutes it took to get everyone under control and snag Angel when they stuck their heads out the back of the train they found it moving at speed.

"I... I can get us off one at a time!" Scootaloo exclaimed spreading her wings.

"Maybe... I think the trains moving too fast! By the time you drop one of us off it'll just keep getting further and further away!"

"Oh..."

"Maybe we could ask them to stop or go back? We did buy tickets..."

"If we made too much fuss it would definitely get back to our folks..."

"Right..." All three of them sat their ears drooping.

"We were doin so good too..."

"Yeah..."

"Dad was right that bunny is trouble!" Scootaloo fumed turning to glare at Angel who immediately hid behind Sweetie Belle.

"Scootaloo... I think he's just really missing Fluttershy you can't blame him for that... But you did go way too far mister!" Sweetie Belle admonished softly pulling him forward and giving him a hug.

"Ok, ok... We can figure this out... Any ideas?"

"Well, I recon we should find a cabin an keep outta sight. Don't want anypony tellin they saw us here right?"

"Good idea Apple Bloom! Let’s go." Scootaloo looked once more at Angel bunny as he hopped up on Sweetie Belle's back shaking her head, silly bunny. I wonder what he was thinking...?

A short while later they'd found an empty cabin near the back of the train and settled in as the girls looked over what they'd brought the pets gathered together under one of the bunks.

"Angel! What were you thinking? Were you trying to get them in trouble?!" Owlicious scolded.

"N... No, I..."

"A trip can be nice but honestly I don't even have my things here how am I supposed to enjoy it?"

"You all weren't..."

"What did you think would happen? My one wouldn't let you run off! Neither would the others!"

"I didn't think..."

Winona and Gummy didn't comment, she was busy nose pressed to the window tail wagging as she watched the scenery wiz by and Gummy sat to the side lost in his own thoughts.

"Ok, ok everyone just calm down... I'm sure Angel wouldn't have done this without some good reason so let’s just give him a chance to explain..."

"Thanks Tank... I... I'm sorry, really I didn't think you'd all get caught up in this..."

"In what? What are you doing here?"

"I had a... Dream..." His ears went down feeling foolish saying it out loud. "I saw Fluttershy and she needed me, needed my help but I couldn't... I..." His eyes squeezed shut tears leaking out.

Tank patted him on the back comfortingly... "A dream... I understand, we all love Fluttershy but the two of you have a special relationship the same as we all do with our special companion’s right?"

All around there were nods even Winona and Gummy having started paying attention again when Tank began to speak.

"What makes you think she's really in trouble though?"

"I don't know... It just seemed so real, never had a dream like that before... And I haven't seen her for so long... Sorry..."

Owlicious snorted clearly uncomfortable with the whole situation. "I suppose if it's for Fluttershy I can overlook this transgression..."

"Your right, for Fluttershy." Pan smiled.

"For Fluttershy!" Everyone agreed.

The girls passed out the treats they had brought but their own rumbling bellies reminded them it was a two day ride to the Empire and they were going to need more food for all of them. Fortunately even after the tickets there were plenty of bits left over, not surprisingly Scootaloo's mom and dad had left an excessive amount 'just in case', and they were glad they had.

Apple Bloom disguised herself by taking the bow out of her mane then went out to the dining car to get food for them all, the selection was limited and for Opal, Pan and Owlicious not at all what they were used to but they hoped for a few days wouldn't hurt them.

They watched the scenery fly by and played with the pets to try to keep them from going stir crazy and tried to stay in their cabin and other then a few trips out for 'elimination' and food runs it wasn't too difficult.

Angel, Pan, Opal, Gummy and Tank didn't need too much room to be comfortable or even to get some exercise. Owlicious too didn't need much room to be comfortable but to exercise... Fortunately he could escape out the window and fly free for a while and still catch up to the train. Winona however... Well she didn't need much room to sleep but to play and exercise she needed a lot and she needed that exercise to be happy so Scootaloo came up with a risky plan, she flew out with Winona onto the roof of the train where she could run like mad feeling the wind rush by and a thousand different smells every minute. Scootaloo stayed close of course worried about the edges and to play with her keeping both of them entertained. If the ponies down below heard her claws clicking above none of them ever came to see...

That night another letter came appearing above Scootaloo and together they read it, so many things to do helping to get things ready and naturally trying to impress the games inspector. Tomorrow would be the decider though and they promised to let them know how things went.

Scootaloo’s ears went down as they finished reading. "I feel guilty..."

"Me too..."

"Ah know how ya feel but we didn't have any choice! Right...?"

"Yeah..." They both agreed.

"We're being responsible keepin the pets safe."

"So you think we should tell them?" Sweetie Belle asked.

"Um..."

"Well..."

"What?"

"Maybe they don't need to know..."

"If we can get back before them... There’s no need to get in trouble right?"

"I guess..."

They all settled down to sleep, Tank and Gummy nestled between the three of them to keep them warm. The clickity clack of the rail soon lulled them all to sleep...

The next morning's sun awoke them along with some insistent nudging, they split up to acquire breakfast and take care of 'business' before settling back down to eat sharing with their friends watching the scenery change from the hills and woods they knew to more desolate badlands and finally to tundra, scrub and snow. Opening the window they could feel the cold but it wasn't so bad, a light coating of snow shone in the sunlight and far in the distance they could barely see a dome of slightly translucent energy they were racing toward.

"Woow..." All three of them echoed before they all burst out talking.

"What do you think the Crystal ponies look like?"

"Ah wonder if everything is really made of crystal?"

"It's so beautiful... I mean... Its ok I guess... I wonder if any of the Crystal ponies have wings...?" Scootaloo stammered and blushed making the others giggle.

"Coming up Crystal Empire station, visitor disembarking and refueling..."

"What should we do?"

"Hide?"

"Well... I kinda wanna see the Empire..."

"Me too..."

"Well I guess a little peak couldn't hurt."

Just as well they hadn't tried to hide as there was a staff member waiting for them to check their car but thanks to the pets amazing cooperation and good behavior other than a bit of extra fur nothing was amiss.

They disembarked last and just stood there a moment staring at the majesty and wonder of the Crystal Empire, all at once they took off looking in windows, gawking at Crystal ponies each of them talking excitedly to one another as they moved from sight to sight dragging the pets along with them.

Winona followed happily along glad to be out the tiny room looking and sniffing at everything the girls did. She wasn't sure what they were so excited about but she did have to admit there were some amazing and new smells! Even... She sniffed the air excitedly, her goddess! She wanted to run to her... But she couldn't abandon the goddess in training... She sighed following along content in the knowledge that she'd see her soon...

Owlicious perched on Scootaloo's back sharing the space with Pan, he kept his guard up knowing if the adults caught the young ones here... Well it wouldn't be the end of the world but it truly wasn't their fault, he glanced down at Angel who hopped slightly ahead of the group looking around and sniffing the air. Fluttershy's fine you silly bunny he thought to himself, I'm sure of it...

Gummy looked around from his seat atop Apple Bloom's head, his usual blank stare replaced by one of amazement. The spires, town, buildings and in the distance a huge castle all built of a strange shining material, so much more massive and incredible then the buildings he was used to. If the creatures here could accomplish a feat such as this...! Just imagine... The size of a heated rock they could make...!

Tank glanced at the goofy look on Gummy’s face before shaking his head slightly as he focused back on the task at hand trying to keep his flight stable and straight. He'd tried ever since she'd given him this gift to master the flight she made look so effortless... easier said than done he had to admit, he'd made very little progress constantly bumping into things looking every bit as clumsily in the air as he did on land. He just didn't have the reflexes but he wasn't about to give up, he'd make her proud...

Opal relaxed on Sweetie Belle's back watching the scenery and ponies pass, it was all quite lovely but she was a creature of habit she had to admit and all these new things and places scared her... She tried hard not to show it, the others relied on her poise and composure they'd be lost without her guidance... That’s what she told herself at least, she'd give anything just to be back home with her pet just like things should be...

Pan sniffed the air again amazed at how many new smells and sounds there were all around, he made sure to hold tight to his one he wouldn't want to become separated from her here. He had faith that he could find her again no matter how long it took but why take chances? All this excitement, adventure and travel was fun but all he really wanted now was to be at home with his one playing, having fun or just snuggling together, soon...

Angel sniffed the air his ears rotating trying to pick up something, anything...! He thought he would feel better once they got here but he remained anxious, stressed and worried. Despite all the reassurance the others had given him he wouldn't be able to relax until he saw... Fluttershy! There through the throng of bodies he saw a flash of yellow and pink, he immediately darted towards it heedless of the cries behind him.

"Owlicious! You’re the only one who can stop him! Quick!" Tank cried out floating carefully over to help him slip his harness.

He hesitated a moment before spreading his wings and taking flight high above his keen eyes somewhat blunted by the bright sunlight and shimmering buildings but thousands of years had honed owls to be able to spot fleeing prey and before too long he did just that. Angel was making slow progress towards what he was now sure was Fluttershy having caught a few more glances of her as he darted and dodged between ponies and luggage when he was suddenly sized and bore aloft by a pair of very sharp but gentle talons.

"No! Let me go Owlicious! I've got to..."

"Relax... Look."

He had been so busy struggling he hadn’t noticed Owlicious had lifted him up but not turned to go back yet, from their roof high vantage point they could clearly see Fluttershy with her friends laughing with them about something.

Angel breathed a sigh of relief. "She's ok..."

"I had little doubt... But, it is good to see her well and the others too... We better get back."

"Your right... Owlicious?"

"Hmm?"

"Thank you."

"Glad to help..."

They quickly flew back to the girls who were just starting to look for the two of them.

"Owlicious! You found him! Thank goodness!" Sweetie Belle hugged him tightly putting him on her back to Opals slight annoyance.

"Glad that’s... Ack!" Scootaloo had begun hovering just over the crowd to look but immediately plunged back to the ground. "There they are!" She peeked up again. "They didn't see me... Whew."

"Now boarding..."

"Ahh!" All three of them squealed.

"We've got to get on board!" Luckily there were two places to board, they presented their tickets getting them punched again making them ineligible to be used again and quickly got to the same cabin they had before near the back of the train.

"We made it! Now we just have to stay low and..."

Tap tap tap...

They all went silent clutching each other a familiar voice coming from the other side of the door. "Is this cabin taken?"

"Dad..." Scootaloo whispered. "Yes, sorry..." She dropped her voice as low as she could holding her breath.

"No problem..."

She pressed her ear to the door listening then collapsing back on her haunches. "Wow... That was close."

Sweetie Belle peeked out the door immediately pulling back and shutting the door. "Their taking the cabin diagonally right across from us!"

"Shh... As long as we kin be quiet we'll be ok."

"Maybe we should just go confess..."

"No Sweetie Belle! We've come so far, and we've done so well!"

"We have kept the pets safe an all..."

"Ookay... How are we going to get food and take care of...? You know..."

"We'll just have to be... Ooh! We can do it all at night!"

"Shh! But ya your right, well we better try'n get a little sleep then."

They pulled the shade and snuggled down together, just a couple days...

The next two days and nights were a bit nerve racking they were a bit worried that when Twilight sent her letters because they were so close that she would know but it didn't seem so, it was boring for them and confusing for the pets but they still did their best to keep them entertained and happy, for their part the pets were glad that Angels premonition of Fluttershy was nothing to be worried about and they were headed home. They excitedly watched as the Ponyville station came into view everything packed up and everyone cleaned up, the moment the train pulled into station they were out the door and off the back of the train quickly lining up on the far side of the train. The train pulled ahead to the refueling station the steam clearing reveling them.

"Hey! We thought we'd come and meet you at the station!"

Everyone came together in a barking, hooting, licking, hugging and loving mass... Finally everyone headed to the library to collect their pet’s belongings before heading home.

After everyone left I did my rounds quickly stopping to thank Magnum and Pearl and Big Mac and Inkie before heading home for a quick dinner, Star was so happy to see her sister she refused to leave her side so I tucked them in together in Scootaloo’s bed Twilight and me giving them both a kiss.

"Sleep tight Angel, sleep tight baby. Love you."

"Sleep sweet my loves."

"Thanks mom, thanks dad, love you..."

"Love you mommy, love you daddy..."

Their little heads nodding I rubbed Stars chest for a few moments guaranteed to put her right to sleep then turned out the lights the two of them snuggled together with Pan between. Twilight and I cleaned up quietly brushing against one another here and there both of us smiling and happy to be home, we crawled into bed together snuggling close kissing softly.

So...

So...?

How long should we ground her?

Interlude: Whats a Princess to do?

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Her breath came in short gasps as she stared at the human form crumpled before her, she had lived a long time and seen and accomplished many things but she couldn't recall a time when she had been more confused. She kept looking back and forth between the body and portal finally checking herself when she realized that even with the small amount of healing magic she had poured into him the human was still in grave danger. The rise and fall of his chest slowing, the beating of his heart too she found putting her ear to his chest. The strange armor he wore was still quite hot any other pony would have been burned arid vapors still came off of it causing her to wrinkle her nose.

That armor had to go first she thought carefully pulling piece by piece off him with her telekinesis, despite her care some parts were melted into his very flesh those she had to cut off him. She had no knife but a razor sharp piece of crystal served well enough. He was bleeding profusely by the time she was done a pair of some sort of undergarment the only undamaged piece of clothing left to him. She poured healing into him cursing herself and her schedule, she had power but not enough knowledge of human internal structure, she could and did heal the cuts and burns only faint scars left, the broken leg too she repaired but inside she... She stopped the flow suddenly realizing his breathing had stopped.

"No..."

She scanned him finding his heart silent as well.

"No!"

She wanted to scream at herself but instead acted, she thumped him on the chest above his heart hard sealing her lips to his as she pushed in a lungful of air again and again.

Wake up!

Please!

Please wake up!

I'm sorry... I'm so sorry!

She lost track of time performing the same act time and again her tears flowed like an ocean falling upon him until she finally felt something...

Ba-Bump...

She gasped as his mouth opened sucking in a great lungful of air before he began coughing uncontrollably his eyes open but seeing nothing staring straight ahead. She held him as he coughed making sure he didn't hurt himself for several long minutes making soothing sounds. His breathing finally stabilized and she pulled back looking down at him with concern, his color slowly returned to normal as did his heartbeat and his eyes no longer darted about wildly they stared straight ahead again but after a moment seemed to focus on her, a confused look on his face he smiled reaching out for her.

"What'r... You... Waiting... For..." He managed to gasp as his hand fell back and his eyes closed.

Immediately concerned she sighed in relief finding his breathing and heartbeat still going strong.

"Just passed out..."

That crisis averted her mind immediately went back to what was she going to do? Her mind was well attuned to crisis management, she'd had many situations over the years when she had to act immediately but almost all involved her pony subjects and not her! She was flustered, she knew if she channeled enough power she could break through the barrier but such an expenditure of power would have vast repercussions all thought Equestria and very likely the human world as well...

Her immediate concern was to make sure this human was well but she couldn't bring herself to teleport him to the hospital... Partially ashamed of her own part in this whole situation and rumors did and would fly. There were some who didn't trust humankind the few that remembered not even because of the past simply because they were different, Rick in particular... She smiled to herself, he being the only one... Well, not now.

Many felt he had no business in Equestria let along being a Knight of the realm and while they were not brave enough to voice their opinions to her or her sister about it the whispers and gossiping were rampant. As much as she would like to stamp out such petty things she knew that was never going to happen, and many of those involved were influential and even royal ponies... She sighed... As long as they kept their displeasure limited to what they did now they would let it be.

Making up her mind she teleported the two of them to a small empty chamber, unused for many years it wasn't far from her chambers. She channeled her magic sealing the door and soundproofing the chamber before borrowing a bed from the hospital along with bandages, medicine and other medical paraphernalia. She returned to the room quickly tucking him in then sat back all of her useful medical items set out before her and began to cry...

A prevalent... Almost unquestionable 'fact' throughout Equestria was that the Princesses were infallible, all knowing, in control of every situation... She never felt so much like she was living a lie then she did right now. She had hundreds of years of knowledge, taxes, military matters, food and water needs for all of Equestria! She could heal and thanks to Rick’s discovery she had a bit more knowledge in that area but she still didn't know what to do...

She sniffed a thought suddenly coming to her. Rick! He could help, he could keep this secret... A sudden mumbling derailed her train of thought, he's waking up! Panicked she quickly unraveled some bandages wrapping them around his chest one leg and arm and finally around his eyes before covering him again.

He coughed weakly croaking out. "Water...?"

"Oh!" She quickly conjured a pitcher and a glass pouring and carefully giving him small sips. "Slowly..."

After a glassful he seemed sated his hands slowly reaching up to touch his face. "What happened? I... I remember the condenser was about to blow... I fell then... An angel..." He shook his head slightly. "Just a dream I guess, where am I?"

"The hospital...?"

"Where? Midland...?"

"Uh... Yes, that’s right..."

"Am I ok? Why can't I see? Am I going to be blind?!" A note of panic was clear in his voice his hands again reaching for his face.

"Stop!" His hands froze then fell back to the bed. "Thank you, you will see again but it will take some time. What is your name?"

"John... Didn't you already know that from my ID, my employers, my family...?"

"Of course! I... I just had to ask to make sure you didn't have any memory impairment..."

"Oh... Sorry, I'm just... Sorry... What’s your name?"

"Celestia..." Oh! She cursed herself, that’s not a very human-like name she thought.

"Celestia...? That’s a beautiful name..."

She felt her cheeks flush slightly, she was well used to empty compliments every day from those who wanted something from her, but this human... John, knew nothing about her, even what she looked like! It was... Nice. "Th... Thank you. How do you feel? Any pain?"

"Sore, very sore all over but not that bad considering... How did I survive? Is everyone alright?"

"I... I'm sorry I don't know the details really, I think everyone else got away safely though..." She hoped she wasn't lying but the rest of the humans seemed safely away before she was whisked away... They got whisked away...

"I see... Well I'm glad to hear their all fine."

"Can I get you anything? More water or some food?"

"Another drink please, are you a doctor Celestia?"

"Me? No, no just a nurse." She poured another glass of water helping him with it but careful not to touch him lest her secret be revealed. Not yet, she had to get to know him better, make sure he was going to be alright.

"Thank you, I'm sorry I'm very tired all of a sudden..."

"No problem! You need your sleep! If you need me for anything just call out and I'll be here..."

"Thanks I..." Before he could say anything else his head lolled to the side his breathing slow and steady.

She shook her head pulling the sheets back up again and weaving a simple spell that would let her know the moment he called out for her. She soothed back his unruly mop of hair with her fore hoof, strange... So alike Rick but so different too, the same sort of skeletal structure naturally but their facial features, build... She shook herself pulling her fore hoof away, I'm in over my head. I need help and advice, she still intended to ask Rick for assistance but right now there was only one other being in Equestria she could trust... Her sister, glancing out the window she was surprised to see it was full night, she remembered soaring around the human world for some time but...

No matter, she teleported herself to the back of the night court audience chamber observing her sister deal with the concerns of their subjects, the night court was usually very quiet ponies who had come from out of the city and couldn't or wouldn't wait until morning as well as emergencies. She had observed her many times especially after her return to them and while it had taken her some time to get into it she had become quite adept at reading ponies and getting to the truth of the matter at hoof.

Since Discords return her night seasons had become more... Lighthearted, occasionally known for being quite strict now she was more concerned with making every pony happy, sometimes that just couldn't happen but it made her smile to see her try...

"Doing a bit of slumming Celestia?"

She jumped slightly turning to glare at Discord a moment as he reclined in midair with a oh so amused look on his face.

"Discord..." She fought to keep a smile off her face, since his 'reform' and reconciliation with her sister she had to admit the change in him was amazing, though she had to warn him more than once to stop pranking the guards and maids although she had to confess she herself was occasionally guilty of that too. The way her sister shone now made her so happy and admittedly a bit jealous... She felt a gentle series of taps on her head.

"Hellooo, Equestria to Celestia... You in there?"

"Sorry... I'm fine."

"Sorry? Sorry?! I can't say I've ever heard you say that word before, what’s wrong?"

"Nothing! I... I just need to talk with my sister when she has a moment."

He raised an eyebrow questioningly. "Oh? You’re being very secretive Celestia, it's not like you at all. What’s going on? You know I'll worm it out of you eventually..." He added with a sly grin.

She sighed and smiled wryly. "I guess you’re right, if you must know..." She drew a deep breath. "I visited the human world and while there saved a human from a horrible fate but accidently teleported him back with me and now I have him sequestered in a room that he thinks is a human hospital!"

Discords gaze moved from confusion to anger for a brief moment before moving right back into confusion. "You..." He shook his head rolling his eyes and turning his back on her but still keeping his head pointed towards her. "Fine... You could have just told me it was none of my business instead of making up that ridiculous story." He faded out of view. "I'll go see if Luna has a moment to help you with your new pet human..." He chuckled as his voice moved away.

She breathed a sigh of relief resisting the urge to say 'He's not a pet!' She took a chance, after all who would believe such a tale...? Well one would she hoped... She couldn't afford to make Discord curious if he began searching... He may have made peace with Rick on Luna's behest but she couldn't risk it... Not now.

Out in the audience chamber Luna giggled as 'something' tickled her brushing her mane aside and whispering in her ear, she glanced back toward her and nodded. "We shall adjourn for a half-hour." Everyone bowed as Luna rose and quickly came across the room towards her. "Sister! No one’s seen you for hours! I was getting worried."

"Sorry, some... Things happened, can we talk? Privately." She added knowing Discord was nearby.

"You wound me Celestia!" He gasped reappearing draped across Luna's back. "Fine have your mare talk, I'll go and make sure the delegates are... Entertained."

Luna smiled and pulled him down for a quick kiss. "Be good."

"When have I ever been anything but my love?" He chucked wandering off.

"So what is it?"

"I... Sort of took your advice..."

"About what? I know you've been keeping some free time for yourself..."

"More about finding someone..."

"Oh! Tell me, tell me!" She grabbed Celestia giggling like a school filly.

She smiled a moment but then he face fell. "It didn't... Go as expected..."

Luna frowned hearing the conflict and distress in her sister’s voice. "Tell me."

"I will... But it would be easier to show you too..."

"Okay."

Without another word she teleported the two of them into an empty chamber, Luna looked around curiously. "I'm not seeing it..."

"Luna... I need you to promise... Keep an open mind and you can't tell anyone! Especially Discord."

"Sister... You know I would keep any secret for you, but to keep this from my beloved..."

"Just for now! When you see you'll understand I promise."

"Okay, I promise."

She sighed her horn lighting up a section of wall becoming transparent revealing her made up 'hospital' room John still bandaged and asleep his breathing steady.

Luna looked back and forth between the window and her sister. "What am I...?” Her horn too glowed briefly before she turned back to face her. "It's no illusion... Nor a viewing portal... Sister... What have you done?!"

"I... I..." She burst out in tears collapsing into Lunas embrace, she held her tenderly stroking her mane letting her get it all out. When she regained her composure she told her sister the whole story from beginning to end leaving nothing out. Other than the occasional question Luna just listened amazed that her sister took such a risk! Her sister! It had been like pulling teeth to even get her to relax a bit and delegate some of her duties.

"I've ruined everything..."

Luna giggled despite herself causing Celestia to shoot her a wounded look making her burst out in laughter, finally she managed to get ahold of herself wiping tears from her eyes.

"It's not funny!"

"Sister... The fact he may be trapped here is not funny, and if he is I hope he can adjust as well as Rick did. But your insistence in blaming yourself is."

"But..."

"Shh... You've said your share now it's my turn. You saved a life... You've done it before and I have no doubt you will again but in this instance I am sure he would have perished without your assistance and yours alone! If the past three years have taught me anything it's that things happen for a reason. The element bearers freeing me, Ricks arrival, Discords return, even you taking Twilight Sparkle as your student in the first place! And now this..."

"Luna..."

"I don't know what fate has in store for you two, but I know it happened for a reason. Maybe not one we can comprehend right now but something... I think your right to move slowly though... Maybe... I don't know, we need a human’s insight. I will contact Rick in the dreaming...

"Do you think he'll help?"

"Of course! He might not have any answers but I know he'll do what he can."

"It's worth a try..."

They turned together to watch his sleeping form.

"So... Can I pretend to be a nurse too?"

"Luna..." She blushed slightly.

"Feed him and fluff his pillows?" She teased.

"Luuuna..." Her blush deepened.

"Maybe a nice sponge bath?" She giggled.

"Luna!!!"

She was prepared to leap upon her sister when they both froze distracted by a sudden outburst of coughing from the room beside them.

"Celestia?"

"He knows your name?!"

"I had to... Just... Just give me a moment..." She teleported into the room drawing a deep breath.

"Yes John?"

He jumped slightly but smiled. "You’re very quiet..."

"Sorry about that..."

"Don't be, sorry to bother you but my throats very dry..."

"Not a problem." She moved a bit closer conjuring a pitcher of water filling a glass for him.

He cocked his head slightly a confused look on what she could see of his face. "Strange... Your heels almost sound like hooves..."

She very nearly dropped the glass and pitcher freezing in place. "Oh! Yes... It's just these... Heels...?"

"Must be uncomfortable after a long day."

She breathed a small sigh of relief giving him a drink. "Some days, but I'm quite used to them to be honest. Is there anything else you need?"

"Is there a radio I could listen too?"

"A radio...?"

"Just some music would be nice if possible..."

"Oh! I think I could manage..." She felt a strange sensation coming over her, she'd felt it before a part of Equestria, music, singing... It came upon you in certain circumstances and many times even right out of the blue. She had let it envelop her before and resisted it others, this time it felt different... Stronger, building inside of her she couldn't resist and didn't want to, she smiled and opened her mouth to sing...

Song

She finished feeling exhilarated, he hadn’t interrupted but the smile on his face said volumes even remaining as he drifted back to sleep as she finished. She smiled to herself again soothing his hair back and covering him back up before teleporting back to her sister who waited a wide grin on her face.

"What?"

"Yoou like him..."

"What?!" She turned to see the wall still transparent her sister having witnessed it all no doubt eavesdropping with her own magic. "D... Don't be silly."

"Yoou liike him..." She giggled again sidling up to her.

"I... I don't even know anything about him!"

"Tia and John sitting in a tree k-i-s-s-i-n..."

"Luna!" This time she really did tackle her the two of them wrestling, tickling and laughing like school fillies until they collapsed exhausted.

"You’re such a pest..." She grinned nudging Luna.

"Missed you too." She stuck her tongue out as they relaxed back together.

"What am I going to do...?"

"Tia, I know it's been awhile but I'm sure you can pick it up quickly enough..."

"Luna!" She blushed again and shook her head. "Be serious please. What possible use could he have for a mare like me...?"

"Well..."

"Luna!"

"Okay, okay... Assuming your have something in common and when he sees you he doesn't freak out..." Celestia groaned putting her head in her fore hooves, Luna put her wing around her pulling her close. "You do like him... Don't try to deny it, I can tell. And that’s good, so good."

"But..."

"Shh... We'll work it out, if we have to we can... Send him back, somehow... But things happen for a reason, right?"

She glanced back at John sighing. "Maybe..."

Chapter 15 (Home again, home again…)

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We got settled in our cabin quickly then explored the rest of the train from the dining car to the engine and caboose, the initial excitement of the trip was wearing off as late afternoon came upon us. We ate together in the dining car retiring to relax and talk in our cabin.

Star still couldn't understand why Scootaloo wasn't with us but she was getting plenty of attention from her five god-mothers so she was well distracted and by the time we were thinking about getting ready for bed very tired, everyone else too was tired laying in their bunks still talking softly as Twilight and I excused ourselves to the restroom to change Star, with her nodding sleepily in her harness we walked to the back of the train and watched the stars appear holding each other close.

I tilted her head up kissing her lovingly soothing back my baby’s mane with a smile. "How did this happen love? How did I get so lucky?"

"We, how did we get so lucky?" She giggled leaning against me. "When we first met I tried to calculate the percentages… Tried to reason it out..."

"My brain couldn't comprehend this amazing new world, new friends... New love, true love..."

We kissed again softly. "Once I figured out... Fell in love... I stopped caring about the why's and wherefores, all I wanted... All I want is to be together..."

"Every morning I can't believe it as I wake up with you..." I kissed her again then softly on Stars forehead. "And you... And you too Angel..." I looked down the tracks blowing a kiss to her. "Life’s a song they say and sometimes it gets me thinking... Until now, whose song was I singing...?"

(Rick) Back in my world I lived alone

No love in my life, but it didn't seem so bad...

Then along you came turning my life upside-down and it got me thinking...

Before now, just who's song was I singing?

(Twilight) I had my books, my studies, my family and my friends.

A life I thought was full but something was missing...

Just whose song was I singing?

(Rick) When our lives came together the answer became clear, two halves finally made whole...

You and I...

(Twilight) You and I...

(Rick) I didn't think it could get better but like magic it was

An amazing little filly with a heart so pure

Her song silenced so we added her to our own...

(Twilight) Our song grew, our lives entwined then came one more...

(Rick) The light of our lives...

(Twilight) The best from us both...

(Together) We sing together our song never done...

(..) Every day it grows, a new verse sung...

(..)Our love...

(..)Our friends...

(..)Our family...

(Rick) There's no one else I can be with

No life I would rather live...

(Twilight) We sing on together, aloud

Whose song are we singing?

(Together) It comes from us all...

(..)We all play a part...

(..) The song of our lives...

(..) Every note a blessing...

(..) Together at last, the song...

(Rick) Our song...

(Twilight) Together forever...

We smiled at each other as we finished kissing once more, I was surprised Star hadn’t awoken until we slipped back into the cabin, I got undressed as Twi wrote a quick letter to Scootaloo I read and signed it Star sleepily scribbling on the bottom. We cuddled down together Star between us slipping off to sleep oblivious to the five smiling mares watching us as they too drifted off to sleep...

The morning sun shone through the open window into my eyes, I shaded them smiling as Twi nuzzled against me.

"Mmm... Not so rough Rick, their still tender from..."

Both our eyes shot open finding little Star serving herself breakfast in bed and the two of us blushing heavily at the grins from Applejack, Dash and Pinkie as well as Fluttershy’s blush and tiny smile. Rarity naturally was still asleep as I understood she was usually an early riser but when she had a chance to sleep in she took it.

We both chuckled trying to brush it off Star's happy little noises she made as she nursed making us both smile.

"So how'd ya think the girls first day went?"

"I'm sure they have everything well in hand... Hoof."

"You bet they do! With Gummy there it's bound to be a blast! Oh... And all your pets too of course..."

"Yeah right." Dash smirked. "I'm going to grab some breakfast for us, be right back."

She zipped out as we all rearranged ourselves and I got dressed trying to be quiet for Rarity’s sake. The enticing smell of the breakfast platter Dash brought was more than enough to wake her up though and we all settled down to eat even Star had a few nibbles still pretty full from her feeding. We speculated about what we might be doing in the Empire but until we talked to Cadence and Armor we couldn't be sure, there wasn't much to do on this trip but watch the scenery fly by, we passed the time talking, playing cards and of course playing with Star. She didn't get to see her god-mothers all the time but she was very comfortable with them more than happy to climb on and cuddle with any of them to hear a story or even just take a nap Dash included, she tried to keep her tough mare image but little Star clamoring up onto your lap to snuggle could break the stoniest heart.

Late that evening the snowy plains gave way as we passed through the shield to warm and sunny, grassy fields and the splendor of the Crystal Empire. We pulled up to a familiar station it seemed the protective shield had expanded and a small tourist-trap type of village had sprung up selling all sorts of souvenirs, food and such. Tourist-trap was probably not the right term as all the items we saw were of excellent quality and every pony we saw welcomed us and every passenger warmly.

"Rick! Twilight!" We turned to look finding Jackpot Gambit galloping up coming to a screeching to a halt in front of us. "Sorry... Train... Got here... Sooner... Then I thought..."

"Relax Gambit catch your breath." I chuckled.

"Thanks... Whew, I'm working as a runner for the palace now and with everything that’s been going on its keeping me busy!"

"I'll bet, and how are the others...? Oh wait, I guess we shouldn't be keeping you." I apologized.

"No worries. You’re the reason I'm here of course... Oh, and your lovely friends too..." He grinned winking at them. Princess Cadence and Prince Shining Armor request your presence at the palace as soon as possible."

I looked back at the others who all nodded except Dash who was looking at Gambit like he was crazy. "Looks like we're ready to go right now Gambit.

"Great! Umm..." He looked around spotting a group of ponies standing around some carts. "Just a moment, be right back!"

Within moments he was back with two large carts and their drivers loading up our luggage.

"You didn't have to..."

"No, no, no... Courtesy of the Princess and Prince Mrs. Sparkle."

With that said we piled in the carts Twilight and Star along with Gambit, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy and Pinkie in the first and Dash, I and the luggage in the back. Which was fine, not that I didn't want to talk to the others but there was something I wanted to talk / tease Dash about as we got underway.

"So Dash, Gambit seems quite taken with you..."

"What?! Don't be crazy..."

I chuckled putting an arm over her giving her a squeeze. "You might not realize it Rainbow Dash but you are a very beautiful mare..."

Now it was my turn to be looked at like I was crazy but she didn't pull away either. "Of... Of course... I'm awesome..."

"You are awesome, why don't you think some stallion would think that?"

"I wouldn't... I mean, I would... I don't know. Stallions just never seemed to take much interest in me..."

"Hmm... I don't know about that but I bet you can come off as a bit intimidating, or stand-offish as I recall..."

"That’s not fair! You’re hardly a normal stallion..."

I laughed giving her another squeeze. "Very true, but I bet if you think back you'll find more than a few ponies who've tried to get close to you..."

"Maybe... I just always thought stallions went for beautiful but clueless mares like Fluttershy or beautiful and knows it all too well ones like Rarity. Heck even AJ and Pinkies milkshake brings the stallions galloping... Seriously have you tried the apple milkshake they made? It's damn good!"

I laughed again and the annoyed look she gave me just made me laugh all the more. "Oh Dash I hope you never change."

"Humph..." But she smiled and nudged me. "Honestly out of the six of us I was pretty sure Twilight would be the last to find anyone... Guess I was way off on that one."

I looked ahead at Twilight her mane flowing out behind her as they rode ahead of us she excitedly pointing out sight after sight for everyone sending a shiver up my spine. "Glad I proved you wrong there Dash..."

"Heh, me too Rick."

We pulled up in front of the opulent palace staff quickly taking our luggage away as Gambit led us to the throne room where Cadence was having a meeting with Bulwark, seeing us enter they both came toward us Bulwark passing by with a nod pulling Gambit with him.

"Talk to you later Sir Sparkle, come on Gambit lots more to do."

"Oh! Right, see you later..."

"Cadence!"

"Twilight!"

"Sunshine, sunshine ladybugs awake! Clap your hooves and do a little shake!"

They giggled together but Star hid in her mother’s mane clearly intimidated by this new strange pony. I lifted her up hoping to make her feel more secure in my arms before bowing to Cadence along with everyone else.

"Good to see you Princess Cadence..."

"Oh please stop it Rick, and all of you. Welcome... Oh... This must be Starswirl, I've heard so much from Shiney's parents...

Star's face was buried in my chest, usually she wasn't a very shy foal but every so often... It was so adorable, I squeezed her gently giving her a kiss on the top of her head. "Baby... This is Cadence, she's mommy’s sister and your aunt."

"Auntie...?" She looked up and smiled, she called all of her god-mothers auntie as well, just easier for her to say then god-mother.

Twilight and Cadence hugged then she levitated Star over hugging her as well as I gave Cadence a warm hug as well before Twilight levitated her up, Star looked back and forth between them a few times giving me a few glances as well, you could almost see the little wheels in her head turning before she lunged forward hugging Cadences muzzle. "Auntie!"

Cadence smiled her eyes a little teary as she hugged her back nuzzling her gently. "Hello little Starswirl, I'm so glad to meet you. I just know you and my..."

"Mooom!!!"

"Speak of the little devils..." She whispered.

"Prism keeps pulling my mane!"

"Ya well Shimmer keeps taking my book!"

"Did not!"

"Did too!"

"Nerd!"

"Philistine!"

"What’s a fillystine?"

"Dunno... But I bet it’s bad!"

"Mooom!"

"Enough you two! Honestly..." She smiled wryly. "Come on out here, your aunt and uncle are here!"

"Uncle Rick?! Auntie Twilight?! Yaay!!!" They echoed a young filly and colt barreling out from a backroom galloping our way. The Crystal Empire had clearly been good to them, it hadn't been so long since I had seen them but they had both grown a bit still nowhere near as big as Scootaloo and the girls but no foals either, somewhere in the middle.

Twilight and I both kneeled down catching both of them giving hugs and kisses until a belligerent little foal pushed her way in-between us giving her cousins a dirty look. "My mommy and daddy!" She accused making us all laugh.

"Star baby..." Twi giggled kissing her forehead. "These are your cousins Shimmer and Prism. They are your auntie Cadences babies..."

"Babez...? Like me!"

"Just like you baby..." I chuckled giving her a squeeze and a kiss.

"Can we show Star our room mom? Can we? Can we?"

"If it's ok with Twilight and Rick..."

"Of course, baby do you want to go play with your cousins for a bit?"

"Umm... Kay!"

"You look after your cousin now." Cadence reminded gently.

"We will mom! Come on Star! Let’s go!" They echoed turning to go then freezing. "Wait... Where’s Scootaloo?"

"Ootaloo..." Stars ears went down clearly missing her sister.

"It won't be too long baby." I reassured rubbing her back. "Scootaloo still has school unfortunately but don't worry we'll all be making the trip back here for the games for certain."

"Yay! Let’s go Star!"

"Kay!"

They galloped off and I watched them with a smile before turning back to Cadence. "So, how can we help you?"

"Oh there’s plenty we could use your help with but that can wait until the morning, it's late. Let us retire to the dining room and talk while the children play have a nice dinner and start fresh on it in the morning?"

Everyone was okay with that even Dash who was very eager to get things ready but it had been a long day and we were all ready for some rest and food. We talked around the table Shining Armor joining us they wanted to know everything new with everyone and we wanted to know everything that had transpired here! A lot of back and forth and a couple hours found dinner being served Cadence embarrassed admitted the Crystal ponies wouldn't let her cook or clean for her own family! It irritated her but she knew they just wanted to do something for them so she allowed it. Star, Prism and Shimmer joined us wolfing down their dinners as fast as possible to get back to play I was glad to see them getting along so well. We retired to their family room watching the foals play still chatting amongst one another Shimmer and Prism occasionally running over for attention from Twilight or I making Star a jealous and adorable little foal until she got the bright idea to run to Cadence and Armor sitting proudly snuggled up between them sticking her tongue out at her cousins making us all laugh.

Chambers had been laid out for each of us and we all retired pleasantly weary from the day’s events, we wrote a letter to Scootaloo together sending it off before we changed Star and settled down the three of us comfy together.

"Goodnight love, goodnight baby..." I kissed them both rubbing Stars chest softly.

"Sleep tight love, sweet dreams baby..."

"Night mommy..." A tiny adorable yawn. "Daddy... Love..." She slipped off as we both smiled closing our eyes and joining her.

The next morning after a quick breakfast we were ready to get started, Star was more than happy to go play with her cousins while we were busy. There were a few little things but the biggest was to show around and impress the games representative, right away there were problems though Cadences hairdresser couldn't make it and apparently the 'traditional' Crystal Empress’s royal hairdo was very complex and time consuming.

Rarity volunteered to take on that task while the others went to meet and greet the inspector at the train station and show her all the Empire had to offer. I volunteered for a few smaller duties, making sure the entertainment was on schedule and such. While a Knight of Equestria might be an impressive ambassador my... Appearance might still put her off, I was sure Twilight and the others could handle it.

Cadence and Rarity were both going to be close by so I wasn't worried about Star and I knew her cousins would look out for her and keep her busy and out of trouble... Well I wasn't so sure about that. We parted ways at the front of the palace, I gave Twi a sweet kiss and wished them all luck before heading over to where Bulwark was drilling a group of palace guards.

"Alright take five! Rick! Sorry, Sir Sparkle." He grinned with a crisp salute.

I saluted back with a sarcastic grin. "Thanks but there’s no need for that my friend. And how are you? Drill Sargent?"

"No, no." He sighed with a wry smile. "I admit after the last time I thought I would never be involved with the palace or royal family again... But Princess Mi Amore and Prince Shining Armor are different... Special... Well when they offered me the position as Captain of their guards... What could I do but agree? And it's been amazing, a challenge yes but worth it."

"Glad to hear it, and hoe are the preparations going?"

"Good! So much to do but it seems everyone in the Empire is pitching in."

"Well it is an important event and anything that brings Equestria and the Crystal Empire closer together is a good thing."

"Tourists started coming in small trickles at first which was just as well as we all had a bit of adjusting to do having been gone for so long... But adjust we did and look now..." He turned looking over the city, Crystal ponies, Earth pones, Pegasus and Unicorns all mingling and getting along, getting to know one another... He cleared his throat and smiled. "Gives me hope... But enough of that, I've got to get these formations set and you've got preparations to oversee, where did they say... Ah right! The music center on the east side of town." He pointed. "It was renamed the 'Princess Mi Amore Cadenza theater' you can't miss it."

"Thanks, I'll see you later eh?"

His troop of guards returning he turned back to them with a grin. "You know it my friend. Alright you lot let's go through this again..."

I left him to his work glad he had found... Or better yet regained some purpose and faith he had lost. I headed east in no real hurry looking about at all the preparations and decorations greeting ponies as they passed. I got my fair share of looks as well from ponies of every kind but I was used to that, surprisingly the Crystal ponies were the most friendly especially thinking of the last time I'd seen them, but either because of rumors from when we had been first here or simply part of the welcoming spirit they were trying to convey.

Before too long I found my way to an impressive and beautiful theater the doors open wide the occasional pony coming and going music flowing out to the street. Inside was just as spacious and eye catching as I imagined, a large foyer with ticket booths and a snack bar I was about to go down into the theater when I heard a gasp behind me and turned just in time to catch an adorable little filly who had leapt from the candy counter. "Well hello there Starsing..." I smiled giving her a gently hug.

"You came back!" She squealed nuzzling against me.

"Of course, I have family here now and to see you and Aegis..."

"Starsing what’s keeping you? Mom said one chocolate bar each, you better not... Oh... Hey..." Aegis stared at me looking torn between galloping over or hanging back.

He settled for sauntering over letting me ruffle his messy mane. "Good to see you too Aegis, how are your mom and dad?"

"Huh? Oh! Come and see for yourself their rehearsing!" We got about two steps before he remembered rushing back to grab four chocolate bars grinning as he lead us into the theater proper. The lights were dimmed and by the time my eyes adjusted we were halfway to the stage, onstage there was a group of ponies dancing including one very familiar to me Frolicing Smoke, no sign of his former illness as he spun and danced onstage the other ponies alongside him all in perfect time. To the side a full band and a small group of singers among them the lovely Marble Quill.

I sat and watched with Aegis beside me and Starsing content in my lap, they both chewed happily on their bars watching their parents amazing performance. It was a long and intricate performance they paused on occasion to change a step or a note trying to create perfection...

After about a half hour they stopped to take a break I then noticed there were others waiting and watching, a few in the stands but more backstage waiting their turn to practice another group taking the stage with different music and a play of sorts began but I was distracted by Starsing squirming off my lap to gallop to her mom and dad as they approached.

"You were great mom and dad!"

"You certainly were even if I based it only on that the Crystal Empire would be a show-in for the Equestria games."

"Rick!" They gasped together.

Smoke rushed up to shake my hand. "It's so good to see you. We weren't sure if we'd ever see you again..."

"And with Aegis and Starsing extolling your virtues at every turn especially after listening to Bulwark's stories..."

"Moom..." Aegis groaned embarrassed.

"I'm glad to see you looking so well, all of you. Though I was sure you would be, Cadence and Armor... That is Princess Cadence and Prince Shining Armor, well I knew they would be great leaders for you all..."

Smoke smiled wryly. "After everything that happened before... Well, the Prince and Princess are just what we needed."

"They’re both so kind..."

"Princess Mi Amora Ced... Cam... Um... The princess let me give her flowers! She's so pretty, like my mom!"

"And Prince Shining Armor is so cool! I heard his shields can stop a thousand bad guys!"

"They are something special that’s for sure, I see you've been getting lots of visitors too."

"Yes! Ponies of every kind, Griffons, Buffalos, Bovines and more! I've even heard tell of dragons flying close by to have a look." Smoke grinned.

"Every day brings some new faces, hopefully they'll like our city, country and us..."

"I can't imagine anyone having a problem with any of it." I chuckled.

"How long are you staying for?"

"Just a few days to help with the preparations but we'll be back for certain when the games take place."

"You mean if." Marble smiled.

"Don't be so modest, the Crystal Empire is truly amazing and everyone pony or otherwise should see it. That being said I better get back to making sure that happens."

"Aww..." Starsing and Aegis echoed.

"Do stop by for dinner tonight, you and your wife I'll cook up something special."

"Wouldn't miss it." The entertainment was looking good as well as decorations, the streets practically (and in a few cases literally) shone. After getting directions a few times I found one of the many bakery’s in the city this one was apparently working in tandem with all the others to provide the treats for the banquet but even from outside things didn't sound like they were going smoothly...

"Listen jerk! I said the pies were taken care of!" A gruff female voice rang out.

"Well then why are they just sitting on the oven instead of in it?!" Countered a somewhat familiar male voice.

"I just haven't put them in yet!"

"Admit it, you forgot."

"I did not!"

Crashing and banging followed and I burst in fully expecting a disaster and I wasn't disappointed there was flour everywhere bowls, utensils and cookware strewn about and in the midst of it all also coated in flour a pony I really couldn't tell the type at the moment lay pinned under a slightly larger creature with an eagles head and wings and the body of a lion. A Griffon! Despite Equestria and the Griffon Empire being allies I had not seen very many of them, usually a few in Canterlot when we visited.

The pony on the ground struggled but seemed to realize he couldn't break free and sank back with a sigh. "Just admit you were wrong."

"Stop saying that!"

"Or you'll what?"

I stepped forward to try to prevent any violence when the Griffons head shot forward! I wouldn't be able to stop the first attack but I readied my magic to shield him from the next but no further attack came and I stood there dumbfounded at the Griffon and pony lips and beak joined in passion, not an easy task I imagined but clearly they had practice...

The Griffon leaned back with a grin. "Doofus..."

He grinned back. "Sorry..."

"No you’re not... Oh!" She must have spotted me out of the corner of her eye as she turned to face me a confused look on her flour covered face. "Um..."

"What babe... Hey! Rick!" He got up shaking himself off and I finally recognized him Jackpot Storm.

"Sorry to intrude..." I smiled. "Just checking up on the preparations."

"Who is he Storm?" She whispered.

"You remember babe, I told you all about our friend Rick and all the rest who came to help us from Equestria."

"Oh... right..." She looked a little depressed at the mention of Equestria but I had no idea why.

"Where are my manners? Rick this is Gilda, Gilda, Rick."

She extended a claw cautiously and I shook it. "Nice to meet you Gilda, what brings you to the Crystal Empire?"

"Well..."

"It was about a month after you left, she came flying in through the shield... Well falling would be a bit more accurate I'd say exhausted and half frozen. Crashed right through my window onto my bed and a good thing she did! If she'd hit anything else she would have been hurt even worse! Made quite a mess of my room though... Not the last time either right babe?" He chuckled nudging her making her blush heavily.

"Storm!"

He laughed again pulling her close. "What is it? This shy acting isn't like you at all... I kinda like it."

"Humph, you would..." She fumed but didn't pull away from him. "I'd heard rumors of this place, the Empires revival. I wanted... Needed, a change... Things hadn't been going great for me... And I guess it was more than a little my own fault..."

"Gilda..." Storm kissed her cheek.

"I didn't know what to make of this fancy Crystal pony when I regained consciousness. But he didn't pester me with questions, he'd wrapped me up as well as he could but I had some broken bones so he helped me to the hospital, stayed with me when they patched me up, visited me every day as I mended..."

She got a little misty-eyed as she spoke making me smile. Tough exterior but all soft and mushy sometimes... Kind of reminded me of Dash really. "What happened then?"

"Well in case it wasn't too obvious I had really fallen for her, she was and still is the most unique and beautiful creature I've ever seen..."

"You..." She blushed again.

"Her gruff manner and hot-headedness didn't drive me away despite her best attempts. Heck they made me even more attracted to her from the few glimpses I saw underneath! Once she was released a few weeks later she still couldn't fly yet and remained as hard-headed as anyone I've ever met about letting me help her."

"I'm sorry..." She whispered.

"Maybe you should visit more often Rick..." He grinned.

She punched him a good one in the shoulder but with a smile. "Don't get used to it. When I got out of the hospital I had nowhere to stay and no money either so my choices were to live on the street or let Storm help..." She sighed getting a faraway look. "My stubbornness has gotten me into trouble more than once, lost me friends... Well this was no exception, I brushed him off trying to make it on my own... Stupid pride..."

Storm hugged her again and she continued. "Stubborn pride notwithstanding I certainly wasn't getting any better and if it wasn't for 'anonymous' donations of food I kept finding I'm sure I would have been in serious trouble. I knew who was leaving the food really I just pretended not to, he'd stop by every day to ask how I was doing not trying to push me..." She laughed lightly. "I looked forward to it every day, but I kept resisting out of sheer stubborn pigheadedness. Tried to convince myself he was just trying to set me up for an even bigger fall... How I could get any lower I'm not sure."

She leaned against him allowing him to continue their story. "I was worried about her of course, she was maintaining but not getting much better her wings still weak. But I knew if I tried to force her into anything it would pretty much be guaranteed to backfire on me, I'm used to dealing with my brother remember?" He laughed. "One night during a strong thunderstorm..." He paused at my quizzical look. "Of course we have rainstorms, the shield keeps out the worst weather but we still need rain just like anywhere else. I couldn't sleep worrying about her alone out there so I took to the streets to find her, thankfully it didn't take long she hadn’t moved far from where I had seen her earlier that day. Huddled against a wall trying to get what little shelter she could from a balcony high above as I watched I saw her collapse coughing and rushed to her side..."

"'What do you want?! I said I'm fine on my own!'

This was the moment, I had to do something. I stood over her shielding her from as much of the rain and wind as I could.

I'd had enough I wasn't taking no for an answer this time, if I couldn't tell her how I felt I would show her!

'Stop it! You'll get sick staying out here, I..."

She broke out coughing again and I shook my head with a small smile.

'I can be as stubborn as you. I'm not moving unless you’re coming with me.'

'Don't be stupid, I... I'm not worth it...' She whispered.

I shook my head and looked down at her. 'Yes. You are.'

'Okay...'

'Pardon...?'

'I said ok dammit! Just help me up before I change my mind... Doofus...'"

"We made our way back to Gambit and I's home, he knew about her of course though he wasn't quite sure what I saw in her but if I was happy so was he. We both dried off but she was still shivering and coughing so I hustled her into the bathroom for a hot bath while I dried off a bit more and made us some hot soup and sandwiches, despite the food I had been leaving her I was sure she would be famished."

"He was right about that, I was relaxing in the tub when I smelled the soup and was out of the bathroom and into the kitchen soaking wet. He scolded me sitting me down and wrapping me in a few towels while I wolfed down my food, I ate all he offered and then some more he made for me. He didn't bug me with questions just watched me from across the table with a little smile. I really wanted to punch him and wipe that smile off his face... Not because I was mad but not really at him, more because I knew he was right. I'd been stubborn and stupid and he saved me..."

Storm smiled squeezing her again kissing her cheek. "And I don't regret a moment of it babe, after she ate it was quite late so I helped her into my bed torn between sleeping on the couch or staying and keeping her warm..." I smiled and raised an eyebrow questioningly. "Well... Maybe to feel her soft fur and downy feathers again so sue me." He chuckled. "My dilemma was resolved when she held up the cover. 'You gettin in or what?' I was no fool, I slid in beside her in a second trying not to crowd her or touch her too much but my bed wasn't that big. I moved around a bit tossing and turning to find a comfortable fit when I turned over she was facing me her beautiful eyes staring right at me as she blushed fetchingly."

"'Thank you...'

'It was noth...'

'It wasn't nothing! I was such a pain in the ass and you still...'

She choked up a little and I moved a bit closer.

'Hey it's ok I...'"

"That’s where she cut me off with a swift kiss, awkward because of... Well you know, beak and lips but the second, third... You get the idea, we made it work and then some..." He grinned with a wink.

"Storm!" She blushed even more. "You’re embarrassing me!"

"He saved my life babe. Me, Storm, Gambit and even Bulwark. And when they faced off against Sombra... His wife and friends including you know who..."

"Oh... right..."

"Pardon?" I asked.

"Well... I've been to Ponyville before, my best friend from flight school lives there... I... I didn't make a very good first impression with her friends... Your friends... We had a huge fight and I haven't talked to her since..."

"I see... And that would be?"

"Rainbow Dash..."

"Oh? Well I guess that makes sense, she's pretty headstrong too. I'm sure it was just a misunderstanding..."

"No. I... I was rude to them, mean, disrespectful... I don't deserve to be Dash's friend, I don't deserve any of the good things in my life..." She sniffed looking at Storm.

"Gilda..." He smiled kissing her again. "Who you were and what you did in the past doesn't affect how I feel about you now, or ever. I love you..."

She gasped covering her mouth as her eyes overflowed with tears. "That’s... That’s the first time... You ever..."

"I've wanted to for a long time but I was scared... Worried you might..."

"I love you!" She catapulted into him knocking him over kissing him passionately.

I just smiled letting them have their moment, I was a big sucker for love and the amazing impossibility of my own love had made me even more so.

After a few minutes they dried they eyes and turned back to me both of them looking sheepish.

"Sorry about that..."

"Don't you be Storm, love is... Well it's very important and for you two to have met and ended up together like this is very inspiring."

"Thanks."

"And I'm sure you and Dash could patch things up, you were best friends and a bond like that doesn't just go away even if you fight."

"I don't think she..."

"Just give it a try, nothing to lose and a friend to regain..."

"Well... Okay, can... Can you arrange something? I... You know Dash right?"

"I do and I will, don't worry... Oh! Right I was supposed to be checking on the food preparations!"

"Right, well despite what you see..." He and Gilda looked around at the mess embarrassed. "Everything is on schedule."

"Excellent, well thanks for telling me your story. I'll talk to Dash... Hmm... Maybe I'll just tell her about this amazing bakery she should visit..."

"I don't know if we should spring it on her..."

"You might be right, I'll think of something don’t worry. I should get going you two have some cleaning up to do and maybe some making up..." I chuckled nudging Storm. "See you both later."

"See you!" They both echoed. "And thanks..." Gilda added.

I wandered around the city a bit more checking in on a few others, it was getting on to late afternoon when I spotted a mare dragging a suitcase, she had a golden mane and tail a dark orange coat and a cutiemark that looked like a trophy of some sort.

"Can I give you a hand with that?" I offered.

"Oh!" She jumped slightly surprised by my appearance or my offer I wasn't sure but probably the former. "Thank you... My hotel is just a few more blocks."

Her suitcase was quite heavy but I hefted it up on my shoulder with minimal difficulty as she led the way glancing back occasionally as if afraid I was going to run off with her belongings.

I smiled trying to put her at ease. "Beautiful isn't it? Your first visit to the Empire?"

"Yes... It is quite amazing, I was quite surprised when I heard about it and had to see it for myself."

"Well I'm glad you could come, I think everyone pony or other should see and experience it."

"Perhaps... And what brings you here?"

"Oh friends and family, unfortunately we had to leave one of our daughters at home this time... School you know?"

"Of course, priorities. Well hopefully you'll be able to attend if the Equestria Games come here."

"Oh to be sure we will be WHEN the games come here."

"Confident are you?"

"Naturally, just look around..." I directed her gaze to the surrounding buildings the just beginning to set suns light reflecting off them making a kaleidoscope of color. "The Empire itself is amazing but it's the ponies within that make it truly special, you'll see."

She looked thoughtful for a moment then smiled. "We'll see... Oh, here’s my hotel."

I looked up to find one of the fanciest hotels in the city the Luxor. "Very nice."

A bell pony came rushing up taking her bag and ushering her in, before following she turned to face me with an appraising look. "Thank you, can I offer you a few bits for...?"

I shook my head with a smile. "The price of a pleasant conversation, I hope you enjoy your stay."

"We'll see, but this is a good start. Goodnight."

"Goodnight." Well my good deed for the day done I made my way to the palace to see how the others made out. Everyone was gathered in the throne room, Star came galloping over with her cousins letting me scoop each of them up in turn for hugs and kisses before joining everyone. Cadences mane was... Unfinished clearly gems and gold braided into it in ways I wouldn't have even thought possible. Rarity’s magic held it aloft as she made small adjustments here and there.

"Enough for now Rarity, please sit and rest you've been at it all day."

"Yes but..."

"Sit." Cadence commanded softly letting her mane fall in messy piles on the throne behind her as she sat in front of it with Armor.

"Looks great hun."

"You’re a terrible liar." She smiled kissing him.

"I have full faith that Rarity will have it ready by tomorrows welcoming ceremony. How did it go far you all? The inspector?"

"Well... She's definitely a bit... Eccentric..." Twilight began.

"She's testing us! Pretending to know nothing about the Empire, she's crafty..." Dash broke in.

"She seems very nice..." Fluttershy added.

"Yer right though she seems bit more... Country, then I would have expected from an inspector... Gets my vote!" Applejack chuckled.

"Another trick! To lure us into making a mistake! I won't be tricked!"

"I think she’s a hoot! And she seemed quite taken with you, Prince Shining Armor..." Pinkie giggled.

"Ahem..." He blushed as Cadence looked at him amused. "Nothing like that... But she sure can gallop for an inspector."

"And where is she now?"

"Oh we put her up in a very nice hotel, the Luxor. We figured you wouldn't want to see her just yet..." Twilight explained with a glance at Cadence's mane eliciting a groan from Rarity. "I didn't mean anything by that Rarity!"

"Don't you worry, I'm sure everything will come together tomorrow..." Fluttershy comforted.

"And how'd everything go for you bro?"

"Me? No problems, everything should be ready. I'm glad to see you put a lot of faith in my friends.

"They are all quite capable individuals, we are glad they wanted to help out so much... Truly every citizen’s efforts have been so above and beyond what we could have asked..." Cadence smiled a bit teary eyes leaning against Armor.

"I just hope Cadence and I can live up to their expectations..."

"I think you've already well surpassed them, they couldn't ask for better leaders."

"Thank you Rick, thank you all. Will you be staying for supper...?"

"Nonono Princess, we need to get just a bit more work done on that mane, and we'll need a special rig so you can sleep tonight! And..." Rarity led Cadence away her unsure look seeming to say she hadn't quite known what she was getting into.

"Well that’s going to keep them busy, I'll take them some food later. What about the rest of you?" Armor asked.

"Actually I have a dinner invitation for us." I remembered giving Twi a squeeze.

"Oh?"

"And I have a favor to ask you Dash."

"What’s up?"

"Just the four of us then I guess?" He looked over to Pinkie, Fluttershy and Applejack.

"Will there be sweets?"

"If you don't mind the company..."

"Sounds great sugar."

We bid them four of them goodnight as Dash impatiently waited for me to fill her in.

"What’s all this about Rick?"

"Nothing much... Just a nice bakery I visited today where an old friend of yours works..."

"An old friend...?" She cocked her head confused. "Who?"

"It's probably better if you see for yourself." I gave her directions and the bakery’s name leaning close before she took off. "Just keep an open mind..."

"Ookay..." She gave me a strange look and flew off.

What was all that about?

Hopefully a renewed friendship.

I explained the situation and my encounter with Gilda and Storm.

Well I hope they can reconnect, she was very rude when we first met her but a bad first impression shouldn't color your entire opinion of someone. It's like my favorite saying... "Don't judge a book by its cover..." She smiled as we kissed Star climbing up her mother’s neck for a pair of kisses of her own.

"Very true." I scooped Star up tickling her. "You'll be making two new friends tonight baby."

"New fendz?"

"Just where are we going?"

I reminded her of our first visit and the ponies I'd met, before too long we arrived at their front door Smoke answering just before I could knock.

"Hey! Glad you could make it... Who's this?"

"This is our daughter Starswirl, Twilight you remember Frolicking Smoke?"

"Of course, thank you for the invitation."

"Hi..." Star was being shy again burying her head in my chest but at least she still said hi.

"Glad to have you, come in, come in. Make yourselves at home..."

Starsing and Aegis were playing in the living room when we entered both rushing up when they saw us. I knelt down keeping Star close so she wouldn't feel too much pressure.

"Baby this is Aegis and Starsing, this is my daughter Starswirl."

Starsing gasped smiling happily as she looked up at her. "Hi! Want to play?"

"Umm... Kay."

She hopped down with her new friend. "Let's go! We can be the hero's and Aegis is the bad guy!"

"Hey that’s not fair!" He called out chasing after them.

"Dinner won't be long, sit, relax..."

"Sure, I just want to introduce Twilight to your wife."

"Of course!"

We all made our way into the kitchen and introductions were made, Marble and Twilight seemed to hit it off right away as I hoped they would. Her special talent bring writing, music mostly I had discovered but I knew Twi would be interested and hoped they'd have a lot to discuss.

Before too long we found ourselves ousted to the living room while they chatted and made the final touches on dinner. We sat and relaxed discussing the Empire and what changes had happened and what the games and influx of visitors could hold for the future, for the best we both imagined.

Throughout the house and occasionally through the kitchen and living room galloped the kids engaged in play-fights, hide and seek and who knew what else. I only had to stop them once catching a whiff and scooping up my squirmy baby for a quick change before she threw herself back into the fray.

Before too long the delicious smells from the kitchen drew us all into the dining room as dinner was served, everything was amazing and we complimented the chef making her blush. After that conversation was minimal as we savored our meal until desert which the kids wolfed down eager to get back to play albeit slower with their full little tummies.

We relaxed together in the kitchen Smoke and I cleaning up as we talked they told us all about developments in the Empire and we told them about life in Equestria... Well we might have left out the bit about the 'reformed' self-proclaimed god of chaos, no need to worry them though we had heard he and Luna were getting along quite well.

As night fell we moved to the living room still chatting about little things Starsing curling up between her parents and Aegis sitting beside them trying his best to keep his head up. Star was curled up in my lap fast asleep as I idly stroked her mane.

"Well it's been a lovely evening but it's getting late and tomorrow will be a big day for us all..." Twilight yawned.

"Too true, I'm so glad you came."

"Feel free to stop by anytime..." Smoke finished.

"Y... Yeah..." Aegis managed to add before falling asleep.

"We will, thank you for the hospitality, dinner was delicious." We exchanged hand/hoofshakes and hugs before departing sleepy Star on Twi's back, I kept an eye on her even though I knew I didn't need to, Twi's mommy senses were second to none.

About halfway back to the palace we paused looking up to the night sky side by side like we had so many times... Like I always wanted to be, I knelt down kissing her passionately taking her by surprise but she returned it equally both of us parting breathless moments later.

What was that about? She smiled as we rested forehead to forehead her horn resting against the top of my head.

Don't know, every time I look at you, touch you, think of you... Just passion love, never ending passion.

Oh you... We rested a moment longer before we resumed our walk getting to the palace and finding our room.

"Night love, night baby..."

"Goodnight my love, sweet dreams baby..."

We wrote Scootaloo poignantly reminding us how much we missed her then snuggled together blissfully slipping into sleep, tomorrow was going to be a big day...

True to my thinking the next morning started early, our wake-up call leaving us both yawning but a cup of coffee for Twi and a quick shower for the three of us and we were ready to go!

They still had more to show the inspector and I had to make sure everything was on schedule, delivery’s and setup at the fairgrounds where the announcement was taking place. Star was staying with her cousins and uncle, Armor was taking them to the parade this morning then to the stadium where he was overseeing training. I hated to be separated from her so much but there were few I would trust her with more.

I passed through the fairgrounds first, things just starting to get set up lots of games, food stands and even a few rides. Things looked good so I went around visiting individual businesses making sure all was on schedule.

There were a few hiccups naturally, a few sick ponies who were very grateful I could help them with their sickness and to catch up with their work they would have hated to miss this. I came upon Storm transporting goods to the fairgrounds but he had broken a wagon wheel, Gilda was apparently on her way to get another one but I could and did mend it with my magic, I tried not to rely on it too much but in certain situations it was quite useful. He got on his way and when I spotted Gilda a short while later flying with the replacement I let her know he was on his way and she flew after him quickly leaving me with a spare wagon wheel... I suppose I deserved that.

By afternoon I had put out a few small bushfires, ponies who weren't happy with where their booths were placed, arrangements for any pony who may have had too much to drink to have escorts home... Little things but they took up time.

I had just finished returning a borrowed shovel I had used to make a few fire pits for later tonight when I spotted a familiar face striding down the street with purpose the same mare I had helped yesterday, I made a small detour to walk with her.

"Good afternoon, how are you doing today?"

She nodded to me. "Nice to see you. A bit frustrated to be honest."

"Oh? Anything I can help you with?"

She looked at me a moment her expression unreadable. "You know I originally thought our interaction yesterday was a scripted action Sir Sparkle..."

"What do you...? Wait... What?!"

She giggled a surprising action with her somewhat haughty demeanor and stern look. "My apologies, I thought for certain you had been sent by the Princess’s to 'impress' me, and while you are certainly pro Empire for the games you didn't try too hard to push me towards it that and the fact you didn't recognize me at all..."

"Recognize...? What was your name?"

"Ms. Harshwhinny."

Harshwhinny... That name sounded so familiar... Wait! The games... Son of a... "You’re the games inspector?"

"You sound surprised?"

"But... Then who are they showing around?"

"I can assure you it's not me. Other than your assistance yesterday and the kindness of the Crystal ponies in general I've received no 'official' welcome at all!"

Damn... "I'm sure this has just been a big misunderstanding... If you'll just..." My mind raced as I looked around for a distraction... A diversion... A... Spa! At the end of the street was the aptly named 'Crystal spa and relaxation center' maybe that would do. "If you'll just enjoy some pampering here..." I led her toward the spa gesturing. "I'll go and sort this out as quickly as I can..."

"I'm not sure..."

"Give them another chance, don't make the Crystal ponies suffer because we made a mistake."

"Hmm... Very well, but quickly I'm expected to make my announcement at the festivities tonight remember?"

"Thank you..." I held the door open for her something coming to mind. "Wait... How did you know who I was?"

She smiled. "I make it my business to know, but to be honest while researching the Crystal Empire deep in the Canterlot archives I came across a strange pair. A young Unicorn named Trixie and her friend I never caught a good look at though he had impeccable manners named Alizarin... They told me an interesting tale about a strange creature called a 'human' who mistakenly came to this world making friends, finding love and even becoming a sworn knight of the kingdom... Fantasy? Perhaps but a casual comment to Princess Celestia before I left confirmed everything. So well met Sir Sparkle but don't think your status can influence my decision, I have a job to do and I like to think I'm quite good at it."

"I wouldn't dream of it, and it's just Rick please." I paid the pony who greeted us getting her 'the works'. "Please take it easy for a while and I'll see what I can find out."

"Very well, and thank you."

I left the spa hurrying to the palace but to no avail, Twilight and the others nor Cadence and Armor were here no one knowing where they'd gone. Undeterred I left to begin searching asking around a bit but everyone was busy either with preparations or just getting their days chores done so they could attend the festivities tonight.

I checked the most obvious places first keeping an eye on the sky hoping to spot Fluttershy or Dash. I stopped by the fairgrounds too hoping they'd be there but again no dice, things were almost completely set up and a few ponies even remembered seeing a group matching ours but had no idea where they were now.

It was beginning to get late so I headed back towards the spa still figuratively searching but getting dejected and more worried by the moment trying to think of something to say to Ms. Harshwhinny...

"Rick!"

I turned to find Twilight and the girls galloping up looking like they too had just been all over the city. We embraced kissing both of us needing to feel better and feeling her soft fur, breaths and our twin beating hearts always made me feel better...

We screwed up, bad.

I know...

You do?!

I met the games inspector who surprisingly recognized me, she's upset but maybe we still have time...

It's too late... She directed my gaze to the sky the sun already beginning to dip probably near four. All we can do is apologies, we were just on our way to see Cadence and apologize to her!

"Ok..." I whispered giving her a final squeeze kissing her ear.

They led the way everyone looking a bit down and while I could criticize their actions why bother? What’s done is done... A nudge pulled me from my thoughts as I found Dash walking beside us.

"Hey..."

"Hey Dash, I meant to ask if you did..."

She nodded and smiled. "Yeah, thanks..."

"Anytime."

Hmm?

Just wondering if Dash and Gilda managed to patch things up... One good thing at least.

I'm glad...

I hadn’t been paying attention and almost walked into a door as we arrived and entered, this place looked familiar... The spa!

"What are we doing here?"

"Rarity brought Cadence here to finish her mane."

Uh oh... "I brought Ms. Harshwhinny here to..."

"Twilight, everyone!" Cadence swept out of the back room her head bowed to keep her mane safe as she straightened up it was quite breathtaking, intricately laced and braded, shining and shimmering.

"Wow..." Was everyone’s reaction.

Twilight shook off her wonder first remembering why we were there. "Cadence... I'm sorry, I've failed you..."

"You know that ain't true sugar, we were all at fault Princess..."

"Princess!" Came a voice from behind a screen which was quickly pushed aside reveling Ms. Harshwhinny and another pony relaxing on massage tables. "So here’s where you've been!" She sat up fuming.

Cadence was taken back. "What’s the meaning of this?!"

"Cadence..." Twilight begged.

"Princess..."

"Enough!" Ms. Harshwhinny stomped her forehoof. "I've spend the last six hours in this establishment after a day of disappointment waiting for a welcome that never came!" She held up her forehoof to stop any further explanation. "Not finished. It seems a mistake was made and Ms. Peachbottom here was mistaken for me..." She gestured to the mare beside her, a younger mare with a light gold coat and light green with even lighter green striped mane blinking her bright green eyes. "Not sure if I should be flattered or insulted by that... But after a long and pleasant conversation with her it's clear your intentions were good. And truly even my interactions with the good ponies of the Empire and a certain member of your group..." She nodded towards me with a small smile. "All in all I can't say when I've ever had a more unbiased 'tour' of a prospective city and I am impressed, very impressed." She glanced up at the clock on the wall. "I believe it's time to get the festivities underway is it not?"

The celebration was every bit as amazing as I pictured, there were still minor hiccups of course but nothing that couldn't be fixed with a little hard work. I just wished Scootaloo could see it...

The afternoon was filled with fun, games and good food. Later as the twilight fell everyone gathered for Ms. Harshwinnys announcement. She stood up on a raised platform with Cadence and Armor.

"It gives me great pleasure to announce this year’s host of the Equestria games... The Crystal Empire...!"

Her announcement while not completely unexpected was met with dead silence for a moment they had all worked so hard though I had no doubt every city in Equestria had. The cheers and hoof stomping rose and rose for minutes a deafening swell dying down finally as Cadence and Armor stepped forward.

"Citizens of the Empire, guests, friends... It is because of all of you this honor has been bestowed on us! Thank you! Thank you all!" She smiled as tears ran down her face.

Armor leaned against her their heads together a moment before he too addressed the crowd. "My friends... We've all worked so hard and even had we not gotten to host the games how we've all grown together, come together, put the past behind us... Now that we've succeeded let's make it the best Equestria Games ever!"

The cheering exploded again as fireworks shot up lighting up the sky Star reaching up with her little hooves trying to catch them her face lit up with excitement.

"Boom daddy, boom! Lift, lift...!"

I held her up so she could try to reach as Twilight giggled beside us, the fireworks continued for about an hour as everyone spread out watching and talking amongst themselves as they found comfortable places to view. We found a small hill away from the crowd laying down together, it wasn't too long before Pinkie joined us a basket of treats with her followed by Rarity and Fluttershy then Applejack a few minutes later with a small keg of crystal berry cider, no sign of Dash but we figured she was busy celebrating still.

We watched the fireworks Star between us as we relaxed she oohed and ahhed happily chewing a cookie, a bit later Dash came up followed by Storm and Gilda, Pinkie and Fluttershy both jumped up hiding behind me as I sat up.

"H... Hi guys..." Gilda halfheartedly waved before turning and trying to flee immediately stopped by Dash and Storm.

"I know things didn't go so great last time Gilda visited..."

"I'll say!"

"Pinkie shh..." Fluttershy squeaked.

Dash glared at them silencing them both. "Look, we all made some mistakes the first round, Gilda and I have been friends for years... I missed her... So how about a second try?"

Everyone was quiet a moment when surprisingly or maybe not Fluttershy came out from behind me and walked up to her a small smile on her face. "A friend of Rainbow Dash's deserves that much at least..." She extended a forehoof letting Gilda gently fist bump it.

"This calls for a...!"

"Pinkie..." Twilight gently admonished.

"Well it does..." She sulked.

I laughed and pulled her over for a hug. "Look around Pinkie, it's an awful big party..."

She looked around a wide smile spreading on her face. "Your right!" She scooped up Star spinning around with her. "Let’s party Star!"

"Wee! Faser auntie! Faser!!!!" She squealed adorably, I'd be lying if I said that it didn't worry me when she did that but she'd never dropped her.

Rarity cleared her throat smiling. "And who is this with you?"

They both blushed momentarily. "This is my... My coltfriend, Jackpot Storm..."

"Hi everyone, good to meet you."

"Oh?! Sit darlings, I want to hear how you met! Please...?" She smiled winningly eager as always to hear some gossip and romance.

Everyone sat and listened to their story, I'd heard it all before of course so I half listened laying back with Twilight beside me laying on her side listening and little tuckered out Star curled up on my chest her excitement with Pinkie worn off and fighting to stay awake but failing as I gently rubbed her back looking up at the stars above, a nap sounds like a good idea baby... Just a few...

"Rick... Rick..."

"Hmm...?" I opened my eyes to a sky full of stars still but different and familiar surroundings, rolling soft clouds and a familiar mare. "Luna..."

She smiled but didn't say anything seeming to be concentrating on something, I was surprised a moment later when my baby climbed atop her head balancing haphazardly before launching herself off at me. "Catch me daddy!"

I did of course giving her a hug and kiss which she returned before squirming down to run back to climb mount Luna again.

I smiled along with her nodding. "You’re doing I assume?"

She blushed slightly. "Well... I get to see her so rarely..."

"Only every night..." I chuckled.

"Sometimes... But I have my duties."

"I know, and I'm so glad you like to spend time with her."

"She's beautiful..." She levitated Star off her back nuzzling her before putting her back down to play some more. "However I do have another reason for contacting you..."

"Oh? How can I help you?"

"It is a... Sensitive subject. But Tia and I hope you can help us..."

Both of them? It must be serious. "I'll help however I can, should Twi and the others..."

"No...! Please... As I said it is sensitive... We are trying to keep things under wraps for now. There is no danger... We... We just need your insight."

"I see... I'll be on the first train to Canterlot when I get home."

She breathed a sigh of relief smiling. "I told her you would..."

I felt a warm breath on my ear and a soft echoing voice. "Rick..." Everything shimmered and dimmed for a moment before returning to normal.

"It appears our time is up, we look forward to seeing you soon... Say bye to daddy."

"Daddy!" Star leapt out from behind Luna smiling angelically.

I swept her up hugging her. "See you in the morning baby..." Everything faded out suddenly and I blinked clearing my vision the stars still above but my beautiful wife looking down at me the warm bundle on my chest transferred to her back.

"Everything’s winding down..."

I pulled her down for a sweet kiss then stretched pulling myself up, everyone was gone though only just I could see them walking together back towards town.

"Better get some sleep then."

"Well more sleep..." She teased leaning against me as we walked.

"Back on our way home tomorrow."

"We still need to write Scootaloo tonight and let her know the exciting news, I hope she's doing well."

"I'm sure she is."

We got back to the palace and our room snuggling down together the two of us writing a quick letter. Star hadn’t even opened her eyes, either she was very tired or she was having too much fun with her godmother. Either was good...

"Wak up daddy! Wak up!" Seven am came pretty early but an adorable little filly bouncing on and nuzzling you makes everything ok. Twi was awake as well laying on her side watching us.

I reached over fondling her ear gently. "Trains at nine?"

"Yes we should hurry, we've still got to pack, see everyone..."

"Ootaloo! Ootaloo!"

I tousled her mane smiling. "Miss your sister huh?" She nodded excitedly. "Us too baby, well let's get ready to go then! You had fun with your cousin’s right?"

"Yes!"

"And Aegis and Starsing?" Twi asked, the room a flurry of activity as she levitated item after item into our bags.

"Yes!"

I scooped her up giving her a quick change as Twi finished the packing. "That’s good because we'll be back one day and you'll be able to see them again."

"Morrow?"

I chuckled giving her a kiss on the nose. "Tomorrow might be a bit soon baby."

Her diaper changed she remained on her back a little grin on her face kicking her legs. I started to get up then swooped in! 'Thubbrrp! Zuber!' She squealed happily holding onto me as I got up. I lifted her down into my arms squeezing her tight. "Love you baby... And you." I pulled Twi over to us kissing her.

"Love you daddy an mommy!"

Twilight kissed us both the bags all packed and ready to go. "Love you both, so much..."

Our bags were whisked away by the palace staff as we headed to the throne room to say our goodbyes to Cadence and Armor meeting up with the others on the way.

"So what was your favorite part?! Mine was when the fireworks went BOOM! No wait! It was the amazingly scrumptious, delicious treats! Nono... It was the..." Pinkie went on listing... Well everything as we walked.

"How was your foray into mane styling Rarity?" I asked.

"Challenging!" She gasped. "But the end result was quite a sight to see wasn't it? I'm still amazed I managed it..."

"Don't be so modest Rarity, you did an incredible job."

"Thank you Fluttershy dear."

"All in all it was a real hootenanny of a time but the orchid's callin to me an I miss my family."

"I do hope Angel bunny hasn't been too much trouble for the girls..."

Fat chance I thought to myself. "I'm sure they can handle almost anything he could throw at them Fluttershy."

"I'm so excited we were able to help get the games! When I get back to camp I'm totally going to see if I can book time off to come see it! You guys are all coming too right?"

"Wouldn't miss it." Was everyone’s reply.

"Glad to hear it, your all always welcome here." Cadence smiled over hearing as we entered.

"You all went above and beyond, thank you!"

"Thanks bro, but I'm pretty sure even if we weren't here the efforts of you two and the Crystal ponies would have easily convinced her."

"Maybe... I'm still glad you were all here."

"Me too..." Cadence nodded.

"Us too!" Prism and Shimmer echoed hopping out to surprise us, Star and them immediately chasing each other around and between our legs.

"You will bring Scootaloo next time won't you?"

"We promised her we would Cadence, there’s so many things I wanted to show her..." Twilight smiled sadly.

"And we will love." I gave her a squeeze.

"Scootaloo's coming next time? Cool!" Prism stopped getting run into by Shimmer and Star the three of them landing in a pile.

"We'll have even more fun with the four of us next time Star." Shimmer smiled.

"Ootaloo..."

I scooped the three of them up giving them a big hug. "We'll be back before you know it."

We all exchanged hugs and goodbyes departing for the train station. I exchanged salutes with Bulwark and his group of cadet’s busy training even harder now that they knew the games were coming.

I was sure Smoke and his family were still resting after last night, but at the train station we were surprised to find Gambit, Storm and Gilda arriving just as we did.

"Morning, how are you three doing?" I asked.

"Not bad... Well I really could use a few more hours of sleep after last night, buut these two insisted..." Gambit chuckled.

"Hah! You nap enough it's a wonder you ever get any sleep at night anyhow bro!" Storm teased.

"Well it was nice of you to come see us off."

"Just me Twilight, and with that have a good trip and I hope to see you soon. I'm going back to bed, later bro you too Gil." Gambit laughed then leaned close to his brother whispering something before waving and galloping off.

"I actually invited Gilda and Storm to come visit me in Ponyville, kinda reconnect you know? And to get to know this stallion who thinks he's good enough to date my friend!" Dash teased flying over to nudge Gilda and Storm.

"I hope that’s not a problem...?" Gilda asked anxiously.

"I don't think so, Rainbow Dash has plenty of room don't you?" Twilight smiled.

"That's not what I meant, I..."

Twilight stopped her holding up a forehoof. "I know what you mean, and I'm sure it's no problem..."

Gilda blushed slightly and smiled. "Thanks..."

We still had a little time before the train arrived so we looked around buying a few souvenirs for ourselves and our loved ones, we heard the train pull up giving us plenty of time to finish up our shopping and get in line to get our baggage and tickets checked.

At one point I thought I heard wings flapping but Fluttershy and Dash were both in front of me in line and I didn't see anyone when I glanced around, imagination I guess...

We were boarded fairly quickly making our way to the back of the train trying to get two cabins side by side or close at least. Most of the cabin doors in the last car were open except the last so I tapped gently to see if it was occupied. "Is this cabin taken?"

"Yes, sorry..."

"No problem." Something familiar about that voice... I shrugged and we choose two cabins beside each other across the way, one for Twilight, Star, Rarity, Fluttershy and I. And Dash, Pinkie, Gilda, Applejack and Storm in the other.

I had told Twi about Luna's request and we both agreed it was strange but we owed the Princess’s a great deal so if they needed my help for however long so be it. Fortunately I had something to distract me from worrying about it... Well besides Twi, Star and the others. Whoever was in that other cabin was very secretive, never coming out except the very odd time early in the morning and very late at night always gone before I could get a good look at whoever it was. I wasn't trying to be nosy but it was bothering me!

We kept writing Scootaloo every night, I was sure she'd be excited to meet Gilda a real Griffon and a close friend of Rainbow Dash! Twilight mentioned how easy it seemed to be to send the letters now, she attributed it to our light spirits on the way home...

I never did get to see the occupants of that last cabin but I certainly heard some strange sounds coming from it, barking, meows and others. Someone traveling with their pets I guess... Finally we made it home, disembarking to the beautiful sight of our little town.

The Empire is beautiful but there really is nowhere like home...

Definitely...

We turned to get our bags as the train pulled ahead and there were Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom. All the pets were there too everyone froze for a moment.

"Hey! We thought we'd come and meet you at the station...!"

The three of them smiled angelically and we all rushed together happily reunited, home and together.

What could be better?

Interlude: When Humans Meet.

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The morning light shone against my eyes, waking me; I considered rolling over and trying to go back to sleep but Twi's head was on my chest and I didn't want to disturb her. I settled for shading my eyes with one hand gently stroking Twi's mane with the other... The more I pondered this trip the less I wanted to go, not that I didn't want to help the Princesses because I did. But we'd just gotten home and all I wanted to do was spend some time with my family…
A bit selfish I supposed, still I was curious about what they could possible need my help with? That itself was a little troubling but I had said I would so I would. I had time still before the train though so I would enjoy this quiet moment... She stirred against me stretching with a groan ending up on top of me looking down my arms around her.

"You’re so beautiful Twi, seriously what do you see in me?" I teased squeezing her and giving her a soft kiss.

"Hmm... Not sure, maybe someone who loves me, holds me, wants me, makes me feel so..." She shivered slightly her soft body pressed against me.

"Sounds good to me love."

We kissed caressing one another softly. "You know, we have a little time," she said as a sly grin spread across her face.

"Mooom! We're out of milk! And Star's a little stinky..."

"Tinkey! Tinkey!"

We smiled to each other. "Duty calls..." She sighed, I chuckled slightly and she covered her mouth. "Rick! That’s not what I meant!" Her embarrassment only made me laugh even harder, I pulled her down for another passionate kiss before we reluctantly separated. I took care of the breakfast situation while Twi took Star for a quick bath and change.

"How about some eggs and toast Angel?"

"Kay!"

She helped me around the kitchen and while I knew I was supposed to be upset with her I was just happy to see her again, however... "You had a good time With Apple
Bloom and Sweetie Belle?"

"Yup! It was a lot of hard work but fun too!"

"That’s great, all the pets behaved themselves?"

"Yeah..."

"Angel bunny?"

"He made a little trouble... But we handled it."

"I'm glad to hear that, and how was the train ride from the Crystal Empire...?"

"So loong...! I mean... How...? Aww... We didn't mean to... Angel bunny just... And we..." She sighed and collapsed down onto the floor. "Sorry dad..."

I sighed as well kneeling down and pulling her into my arms tilting her head up to look in her big tear filled purple eyes. "Angel... The only thing I'm upset about is you could have been hurt, Sweetie Belle or Apple Bloom, the pets. On the train or at the Empire... I'm sure you could have found help but it was dangerous..."

"Did you see us on the train?!"

"No, I was a little suspicious of whoever was in that cabin but I really had no idea."

"Then how...?"

I gave her a squeeze and a kiss on the nose. "Perhaps you've forgotten those four days you were gone? Pearl checked in on you and didn't find you no problem maybe you were all out playing but later when Big Mac and Inkie stopped by and still couldn't find you... Well they got together and started looking around and asking questions. Three fillies and a passel of pets is pretty easy to remember, eventually their inquiries led them to the train station and the conductor there who remembered you very well and where you were going..."

"Oh... Oops... We had a good reason really!"

"Ok."

"Ok...?"

"You can tell us all about it at breakfast."

So over our meal she told us everything that happened, and while it certainly was a strange set of events it also didn't excuse her from not getting help... Well heck I might have done the same at her age in that position but trying to keep it from us...? Things turned out thankfully and I hoped she'd learned and would be more cautious in the future, that could be stretching it though. Three weeks grounding plus a couple days staying late at school to make up anything she missed was what we decided.

"I understand..."

"That’s my filly... Well I better get to the train station, come to see me off before school?"

"What?! But... But you just got home! That’s not fair!" She was almost in tears again as I pulled her close hugging her tight. "Your right Angel, it's not fair to you but it won't be for long and if the Princesses hadn't asked I wouldn't go at all..."

"The Princesses...?"

"That’s right honey, still I wish I knew what they..." Twi shook her head. "Never mind, we had best hurry."

The four of us headed out Star galloping ahead and then coming back trying to entice her sister into chasing her but she followed along quietly still looking a little down.

Maybe you could see if Magnum, Pearl and Sweetie Belle as well as Mac, Inkie, Applejack and Apple Bloom can join you for supper tonight? Hear the whole story from all three of them, might make them feel better?

Might cheer up Scootaloo you mean...?

Well...

I know you, I love you.

Thanks, love you too.

We came up onto the boarding station a bit late passengers already getting on, I hurried up to get a ticket only to have one handed to me from the teller.

"Guess they knew you'd be coming." He nodded as I took it.

"Thanks." I still had a few minutes so I knelt down before my two girls gathering up my happy little foal first. "You be good while I'm gone baby..."

"Daddy!"

I gave her a hug and kiss letting her scamper off turning to my sullen filly, I reached out and gently pushed her mane back. "I'll be back before you know it... I'll need to do an extensive check of the border when I get home, I could sure use a helper..."

Her smile rose at that. "Really...?! But I'm grounded..." And fell again.

"Oh I don't know..." I kissed her forehead nudging her chin up. "A long hike through nature, learning and educational... I think mom will be ok with it."

She smiled again throwing herself against me both of us hugging. "Love you dad..."

"Love you Angel..."

I moved over to Twilight kneeling down again to kiss her softly. "Never seems to be any time for us lately love..."

"Kid's will do that..." She smiled.

"No regrets, when I get back how about we convince Fluttershy to take the girls for a night and I take you out for dinner, dancing, whatever you want?"
She kissed me again with a smile. "Sounds good, miss you already..."

"You too..." I scooped up Star as she galloped past giving her a last kiss. "Love you baby." I passed her to Twi and boarded the train just as it was ready to depart, I found a seat quickly pushing up the window to wave goodbye...

Love you.

They faded into the distance and I sank down in my seat for the ride...

"Hey Rick..."

I jumped slightly at the soft familiar voice beside me, Lyra... How a bright mint colored pony could sneak up on you was anyone’s guess. I gave her a hug still happy to see her. "Lyra, nice to see you." I looked around. "Bon Bon's not with you?"

"She's running the store, just me and my parents for a couple days... Ugh..." She giggled. "If I can last that long."

I chuckled giving her another squeeze. "Parents can drive you crazy it's true, but they only want what’s best for you right?"

"What THEY think is best."

I laughed. "True, true... I think you can handle it, so what else is new?"

We chatted throughout the train ride, she told me how things were going with her and Bon Bon and her writing she asked a few questions and jotted down some notes seeing she had a 'captive' audience. I told her about the Empire and how they had gotten the games, she was excited hoping to convince Bon Bon to go with her. Contrary to the long, boring and lonely trip I had been expecting with Lyra there the trip flew by and before I knew it we were pulling into the station at Canterlot.

"Looks like we're here."

"Wow! That went fast! I'm glad you were here Rick!" She grinned hugging me.

"I'm glad too Lyra, let me walk you to your parents."

"Really? Thanks!"

We collected her luggage, she had a few bags but I didn't mind carrying a couple of them while she levitated the last as we walked. She pointed out stores and restaurants she liked. She'd lived here for quite a while and admitted she missed it but she loved small town life with Bon Bon even more. We approached a swankier part of town finally stopping in front of a large impressive house complete with a huge yard and a tall fence.

"Well... Here goes nothing..." She giggled.

"Wow Lyra, I'm impressed."

"What? Oh! The house, well my family’s been in Canterlot since.... Well the beginning I think. We're not royalty or anything... Though sometimes they sure act like it..."

I put her bags down and squeezed her shoulder gently. "You'll be fine Lyra, I'm willing to bet they don't approve of your new life but at least you’re still talking and getting together, that’s important for a family."

"Thanks... Hope I see you later, maybe we'll catch the same train home!"

"That'd be nice, see you and good luck." I smiled as the gates swung open for her and she entered her bags in tow. "Well I better get to the palace or they'll be wondering where I am."

I oriented myself easily, Canterlot was a huge city but the palace rose above all easily visible from likely any part of the city. Conversely I wasn't too far away naturally the posh part of the city would be near the palace. I had my medallion on and visible not that I was expecting trouble but when summoned one should play the part.
I straightened out my slightly rumpled clothing from the long train ride plucking the few strands of Lyra's mane off, Twi wouldn't appreciate those. The guards watched me warily from a distance until I got closer than they either recognized me or mayhap the emblem and they snapped to attention. I saluted them passing by heading toward the throne room, Luna was likely asleep so I would see if Princess Celestia had time to see me.

The moment I entered I noticed her head turn to face me a moment she nodded slightly before turning her attention back to the group before her. She dealt with them and several more while I moved quietly standing in the back of the room so as not to disturb anyone.

"We shall break for twenty minutes..." She announced stepping down from her throne making her way slowly through the crowd towards the back of the room, I moved to meet her at the back doors catching snippets of conversation as I walked.

"...been calling breaks far more than usual."

"And longer as well, used to be a five minute recess and only once a day I..."

"...heard she's sick that’s why she's been taking it easy."

"Sure doesn't look sick, she's practically glowing, maybe she looks a little tired..."

I snuck through the doors while the crowd’s attention was still focused on her the two guards there let me pass without comment again either recognizing me or the medallion. I waited to the side for a moment until I heard her speak to her guards. "No disturbances, not even Kibitz."

"Yes Princess!"

I stayed out of view as they swept the doors open for her bowing as they closed. "Good to see you Princess, you needed my help with something?"

The look of relief on her face was clear, she took a step forward but stopped herself nodding to me.

"It is good to see you as well Sir Sparkle, I'm so glad you could come to help me... Us."

"Well what’s wrong? What do you need...?"

She looked around nervously. "I'll tell you everything but not here. Please?"

She extended a wing towards me and I carefully took ahold of it as she teleported us, I took a moment to reorient myself. Maybe someday I would get the hang of this teleportation thing... The room I found myself in could be called Spartan but only if it had anything at all in it. Four blank walls ceiling and floor not even dust yet still the air was fresh and it was pleasantly cool.

She sat down regarding me with her ageless eyes but there was something else there too, fear? Uncertainty? I had seen these in her eyes once before when Twilight and I had our darkest day...

"What is it?"

She sighed, "I don't have long... everything you'll need is inside but first I have to explain... I... I didn't mean for this to happen..."

"You’re freaking me out Princess... Just tell me, I'll help any way I can."

"Very well..."

She started slowly almost ashamedly talking about her own loneliness and how Luna had convinced her to start taking some time for herself, look for someone for herself... She actually blushed at that admission and I had to keep myself from grinning, while I had to admit I didn't think of her worrying about things like that I could definitely understand her need... All of our need for love, even if we couldn't quite understand it. She went on telling of her thoughts and plans for a potential mate somehow eventually leading her to the old human embassy, that was a surprise. I knew humankind had been here, but I hadn't known they had a castle... Something still left behind. That's something I'd like to see sometime...

She paused a moment as if unsure whether or not to continue but then burst forth telling me how she ventured thru the portal she thought sealed in my world, her explorations, her thoughts and finally her interactions leading to her saving the life of the human named John and her accidental trapping of him in this world... As she finished tears fell from her eyes as she looked over to a blank section of wall her horn lighting up and it becoming translucent revealing a room reminiscent of the one we were in but with a door, window, medical supplies all around and in the middle propped up in a bed a lone human form bandaged in a few areas of his body most notably the eyes.

I looked for a moment then turned back to her finding her turned away from me her head down, I shook my head with a smile. Silly mare, save a life and feel guilty about it, a life here was far preferable to death. Even more so then a life back on Earth even, for me at least but him... Well that’s something I'd have to determine. I stepped toward her and she stiffened as if she feared I would slap her, I chuckled softly with a smile reaching out and pulling her to me gently. She didn't resist as I wrapped my arms around her holding her close, she sighed softly leaning against me. Her flowing mane, her soft coat, her scent every bit the equal of any mare... Well I might be a bit biased towards Twilight there no one could compare to her. I could feel something within her, a warmth... Greater than any pony or even a horse might radiate, something deeper... No matter, I held her a minute stroking her mane letting her relax.

"Princess..."

"Please, sir... Please, Rick. When we are alone at least let us do away with our titles..." She looked at me her eyes still damp.

I wiped away her tears smiling. "Celestia... You've done nothing wrong..."

"But I..."

"Saved his life?"

"We don't know, I..."

"Shh... We humans might be pretty resilient but from what you told me he was as good as dead. A second sooner, a second later... Life and death, all that matters is he's here now, and here to stay..."

"There are options..."

"Such as? Seems you've sealed the portal very securely, can another be opened elsewhere?"

"No... Not to your world..." She whispered.

"Perhaps Zecora?"

"I think she was able to bring you through only because of how weak the barrier had become..."

"So for now at least he's stuck."

"I... Yes." She seemed a bit unsure of that but I let it go for now.

"But you can't keep him blindfolded and a prisoner in this room forever..."

"I know! I don't want to! It's just... That’s why I need your help."

"Good, good. Well then I think your break is about up, how soon before you can call another?"

"Not until Luna takes over tonight..."

"Fair enough, I'll talk to him... Start things slow, see what I can find out about him."

"Okay... Do you think...? I mean... Could he be happy here?"

"We humans can be tricky creatures, some people can adjust to a... Unusual situation quite well, others... Well hopefully he has an open mind."

"I will leave it to you then, Rick?"

"Yes?"

She enveloped me in her wings pulling me close for a hug whispering. "Thank you." And then with a flash of magic she was gone.

It was a strange situation to be sure but she seemed even more ill at ease then I would have thought... But mares much like women will forever be beyond my comprehension. I looked back into the room taking a deep breath and teleported in.

The room smelled as a thousand other hospital rooms I'd been in, a bit stale, cleaners, a human smell and a faint pony one as well, one I'd just experienced. How much time had the Princess been spending in here...? There were several conveniently placed hooks located on the wall beside where I teleported in, a white lab coat, stethoscope and doctors bag hung there. Well prepared aren't you Princess? I smiled donning the robe and putting the stethoscope around my neck in a typical doctor fashion.
I put the bag at the foot of his bed looking him over as he slept.

He lay there quietly a guitar leaning on the bed beside him, interesting... No outward signs of injury except for a few bruised bones and... A burnt patch of skin on his right arm that began at his tricep and snaked underneath him on his back, old clearly. He stirred and began hacking and coughing.

"Are you alright?" I asked him.

"Oh yeah, out-friggin'-standing..."

Preoccupied and shocked at the patch of leathery skin on his upper arm I blurted out. "What happened there on your arm?"

He coughed again before he gave a blunt and honest answer. "Got burned."

Well at least he's got his sarcasm down I thought to myself.

Looking at him internally showed moderate damage of his lungs, a smoker? Possibly. There were also... Particulates of some kind metallic in nature that had collected in part of his lungs. It might have been from the smoke... But given the way they had deposited, it must have been from time spent working in that industry... Either way it would clear up on its own, other than that he seemed in good health. That out of the way I took another look at him one human to another, he had a thick mop of brown hair in the middle of his head shaved at the sides sticking out from the bandages wrapped around his head. He looked quite young from what I could see, clean shaven which was confusing but looking around I found a basin, brush and soap as well as a straight razor. Difficult enough when you could see... He was slight but wiry kept in shape by the hard work he did no doubt. Sorry buddy no need for oil and gas workers here but we'll find you something... I chuckled to myself.

He moved slightly turning towards me. "Tia? Are you here?" He smiled hopefully.

Tia? Really...? Now who told you about that name I wonder... "No, sorry..."

He pulled back looking confused. "Who are you?"

"Rick, I'm the... I'm the on call physician, how do you feel?"

"Oh. Good to meet you." He extended his hand in my direction and I grasped it firmly. "I'm good, coughing a little bit and I'm worried I'm blind but..."

"I understand, and we'll get to that. But first may I ask you some questions?"

"Uh, okay..."

"Your name?"

"John. My dad calls me Julio, and the guys on my shift... Well... That's not really anything I should repeat."

I chuckled. "Any family nearby?"

"Yes but, they should've been notified..." His expression fell a bit. "My mom... Nobody's here yet though. I guess it's real bad isn't it."

I diverted the conversation. "Married? Dating? Single?"

"I... I'm... Single. Perpetually."

"Just gauging if you've had any memory impairment from the accident, tell me exactly what you remember."

He sighed heavily, "Okay, how much time do you have doc?"

Odd question. "I've got plenty of time." I uneasily replied.

"Good 'cause it'll take a while."

In what could only be described as a combination of information overload and the ramblings of technical jargon that amounted to a foreign language, he told me about his work that day pretty straightforward until the accident, how he got thrown around and fell down the ladder but he couldn't remember after that... I could tell he was holding back a bit and encouraged him to share which he did slowly telling of an angelic being who made the pain go away and he swore he'd seen her again before he woke up here... He shook his head embarrassed.

"Interesting..." And it was, while Celestia had told me he'd seemed to see her in her spirit form his recollection confirmed that which shouldn't have been possible... Well I didn't know really, Twi would spend days trying to find out... Heh, just the thought of her stabbed a little pang of loneliness through me.

"I'm not crazy... Maybe it was just the smoke, or the fire... I don't know... Maybe I really was burning to death..."

"What if it wasn't...?"

"You a shrink too doc?" He grinned.

"Humor me, what if it was something else...? Something not of our world?"

"What like an alien?"

"I suppose any life outside of our world would be considered 'alien'..."

"I'd say you've been watching too much sci-fi channel." He said chuckling.

I was getting nowhere with trying to subtly explain things to him until he could see again. "Ok please, let's put a pin in that for now then..." I looked through the doctor’s bag a moment locating what I needed, a pair of surgical scissors. "Now just relax a moment, keep your eyes closed."

He looked at me though his eyes were obscured his mouth bore an incredulous expression and what came out of his mouth next was something I didn't expect. "Yeah, I don't think that'll be a problem."

Smart ass... Resisting the urge to smack him upside the head, I cut away the bandages looking him over. "Ok. Let’s turn the light down a bit..." The glowing orb Celestia had suspended from the ceiling just needed a touch of magic to adjust, I turned it quite low to spare his eyes and to keep him from seeing it. I pulled the drapes as well taking a seat across from him. "Alright slowly now, take your time..."

His eyelids crept open then slammed shut wincing even the minimal light in the room hard on his eyes. "Ach!" He recovered quickly though holding up his hand to cover his right eye. "I'm ok, just need to get used to it again..." He tried again, and again tears running from his eyes. I handed his a few Kleenex letting him adjust, it took about ten minutes but finally he was able to see clearly looking around wide-eyed his brown eyes clear.

"That’s better, so how do they feel?"

"Sore, but I can see!" He grabbed me by the shoulders. "I have seen the light! I can't wait to see Tia!"

"Oh?"

He blushed slightly. "Well... You know, she has such a beautiful voice and she's so kind and nice..."

"She is at that... Though there’s certainly much more to her, she's... A little older then you..."

His eyes went wide and he got a stubborn look on his face. "I know. She has a son too, Spike I know all about her, and besides I like older women."

Not even close I thought to myself, but I was surprised she had told him about Spike. "Been talking a bit have you?"

"Well there wasn't much else to do you know? I guess she mustn’t have many other patients or maybe..."

"Maybe?"

"Maybe she... She wanted to talk with me?"

"Ah, hoping for a little Florence Nightingale action eh?" I playfully jabbed him in the ribs.

"No. I want her to like me for me not just because I'm her patient... I mean... Please don't tell her."

"What? That you’re attracted to her?"

"I'm just... She deserves someone much better than me."

"Hmm... Maybe, maybe not. That’s for her to decide don't you think?"

"Right... Of course... Do you think...?"

"Well you've gotten to know each other pretty well it seems."

"Yeah, we've talked a lot it seems whenever I wake up she’s around... When my beard started getting itchy she offered to help, takes care of me, listens to me complain about my life and has told me all about her life..."

Not quite... "I see, and a bit of guitar too I see, you play?"

"Oh... A bit, she seems to enjoy it... I'm not that good."

"Alright, let me ask you something then."

"Go ahead."

"What if when you meet her she doesn't line up to your expectations? I have no doubt you have an idea of what she might look like?"

"Y... Yes."

"Well what if she doesn't look like that at all. Maybe she's homely?"

"Doesn't matter." He answered so quickly and decisively I almost believed him.

"Alright, though you might be hanging onto a romantic ideal which is fine until you meet her for the first time and buckle bailing on everything you believed in, everything you 'claimed' to feel!"

His eyes went wide and he actually managed to get halfway out of bed before I pushed him back down gently, he was still quite weak. "How dare you! You don't know me! You don't know how I feel about her or what I'll do...!"

I smiled and sat back down. "Maybe not, but I have a better idea now..."

"What is this? You’re not like any doctor I've ever seen before."

"I'll take that as a compliment, I know Celestia, maybe not too well but she's quite special and I would hate to see her hurt, it would be... Unpleasant for you."

"Is that a threat?!"

"Not at all. Now then, what if she's ugly? Big nose, big teeth, wide spaced eyes...?"

"Don't be ridiculous."

"I may not know you yet but you certainly don't know her, what makes you so sure?"

He leaned back as did I we'd been both leaning forward practically yelling at each other, while I was trying to provoke him I wasn't mad at him but if this was going to go anywhere, originally I just was thinking of his place in Equestrian society now he and Celestia... I was going to make damn sure he felt something genuinely for her and not just what he thought she was. And making him mad, frustrating him? More likely to blurt out something, reveal some truth... Of course I couldn't be sure she felt anything for him other than guilt... But something... Something about the way she talked about him, looked at him told me she felt something too...

He looked at me still annoyed but then smiled wryly. "You know what, I don't. I don't know anything for sure, but she... I can feel something so deep... A connection like I've never felt before..."

That’s more like it. "Good... But again, what if she's not what you think? She's still herself, her voice, her mannerisms, her... Soul. But not human?"

"What do you mean?"

"Say she's an AI, a robot we use to tend to patients here..."

He thought a moment. "That would be one amazing robot... I could fall in love with a robot like her..."

Closer still but... Love is more than just a word... "Let me spin it another way, here on Earth a lot of people think we're the center of the universe but there’s so much more out there. A practically infinite, galaxies, universes, worlds...

"Now I know your pulling my leg, an alien? What would she be doing here? Why would she want anything to do with me...?"

"Even aliens get lonely... But let me present you with one more, right beside us... Overlapping us even there are dimensions we can't even comprehend, can't see, most people would close their minds to such an idea. Worlds without humans, other forms of sapient life... Who knows, dogs, cats...? Horses..."

"So what? Your saying she came from another dimension? I'm not sure I buy that..."

Well enough leading him by the nose, time to put some cards on the table. "No... I'm not saying she came from there at all..." The pitcher of water floated over to my hand I poured us both a glass levitating one over to him. "I'm saying your there..." I smiled and leaned back taking a drink. "Or to be more accurate, we are."

He just sat there staring at the glass before him his look shifting from confused to bewildered and afraid back and forth. He reached out nudging the glass before him moving it slightly as if to test it was real. "How...?"

"This world, dimension, whatever you want to call it has a few different rules... Magic, long dead or suppressed in our world is very prevalent here."

"And you can...?"

"That is a long story, but we're here to learn about you, and your future here."

"Here...? I... What do you mean?"

I sighed. "Unfortunately when you were brought here... There’s no way back, the one who brought you here accidently feels terrible about it."

"Stuck...? I don't understand..."

"It's a lot to take in I know, here..." An idea came to mind and I helped him up letting him lean on me for support taking him over to the window carefully pulling aside the blinds making sure he could take the brightness thankfully it was later day. The view was breathtaking, the city stretched out below us and even though we were quite high you could still make out ponies going about their day to day business some on the ground, some in the air.

He stumbled back with a gasp. "What... What the hell?!" He pushed me away leaning against the wall. "Is this some sort of sick joke?"

"I certainly can see how you might think so..."

I opened the window gesturing and stepping back. "Take a closer look..."

He cautiously looked out leaning further and further until I had to lunge forward grabbing him to keep him from toppling out, I pulled him back in and he stumbled over to his bed collapsing into it holding his head. "I... What... How...? It's not possible, what are they?"

"Ponies, but they’re not the only one..."

"What do you mean?"

"Some are more like ponies from back home, with some notable exceptions of course..."

"Exceptions?"

I sat back down with a sigh. "Your still not getting it, they’re not animals... Ok we're all animals but their just as intelligent as us, hell more intelligent plenty of them. There are differences naturally, ways we think, see things..."

"How do you know all this? How long have you been here? You are human right?!"

"I am..."

"How many more...?"

"Just you and me, hopefully it will stay that way. Don't get me wrong I know there are plenty of good people out there, and you know there are plenty of others who would react... Poorly to all this. I'm hoping your one of the former for all our sakes, for her sake..."

"Tia! She's...?"

"A pony? Well, yes and no. Like I said she's something special but you already knew that. But she's not human, and believe me there’s nothing wrong with that."

"You... How long have you been here?" He asked again.

"Getting close to two years now..." I smiled in memory. "It was strange, I missed my home and family... Still do some days, but it turned out there was a reason... I found someone, something I never thought I would find... Love. Someone I couldn't live without..." Quite literally and figuratively I chuckled as he continued to stare at me.

"Are you insane? All of this... It's too much..."

"Heh... I really did think I was going crazy at one point, but I got over it, adjusted, married the mare I love, we adopted a little filly who needed us love her so much and thanks to Celestia's sister actually managed to have one of our own, the light of our lives... It's a lot to take on I know and I'm probably really not helping but there’s only one thing you need to focus on right now. With all you know now, assuming you can accept it, do you love her?"

"Do I..?"

"It's all that matters, everything else can be worked on, overcome... Do you love her?"

His eyes darted around the room his breathing becoming erratic, I was about to put him back to sleep, maybe rewrap his eyes and he'd think it all a dream...

"Do I...? Why won't you let me see her...? Am I...? No, this is a dream... This ain't real!" He began to panic. I tried to hold him down but even for a little guy he was strong, he got away and tried to open the door. It glowed softly golden naturally Celestia had the room securely sealed, far beyond either of our ability to open. He began to mule kick the door. "This is a fucking dream! Lemme out!!! I WANT OUT!!!" He began punching the door until his knuckles were bleeding.

I didn't try to stop him any damage he did I could fix...

Suddenly there was a flash and Luna stood beside me her horn lighting up pulling John away from the door and tossing him onto the bed. "Enough!" She stomped her fore hoof causing a small thunderclap John stared at her surprised and confused. "I won't have you harming yourself human named John unless..." She glared at him sternly. "You intend to break my sister’s heart then know my vengeance will be swift and terrible!"

The room darkened and I rolled my eyes slightly, dramatic much Luna? But with a sudden flash everything was light again and Celestia knelt by the bed covering John protectively. "Luna!"

"What? He needed to know where I stand..."

Her attention immediately switched back to him as he collapsed back into the bed. "Tia? I... I knew... Somehow... I knew it was you..." His voice was a mere whisper. A tear ran down his cheek as he passed out into Celestia's gentle grip.

Celestia gathering him up immediately nuzzled him and wrapped him up in a blanket from the bed. "What happened?!"

I scanned him and helped her cover him back up. "Nothing to worry about, too much too soon. He'll be fine with some more rest, tomorrow."

She knelt on the floor beside him laying her head beside his. "I'll just wait... In case he needs me... I have so much to explain..."

"Princess..." I took a step forward.

Celestia's horn glowed before freezing me in place. "Please Rick. Let me be the first thing he sees when he wakes up. He deserves to hear it from me."

"Please Rick." Luna pulled me away before I could say any more whispering to me. "If you think me hard headed Rick best you not push my sister too far, she can be unbelievably tenacious when she wants something..."

"Luna?" I asked as she pulled me to the back to the hospital room.

"I sensed her terrible unease and had to call an emergency recess from the night court. Please let us leave Tia to him, there's nothing more we can do."

"Ok, ok..."

"Rick?" Celestia asked.

"Yes Princess?"

"Thank you, truly I was at a loss, I hope... I..." She went silent laying her head back down.

"We'll talk more tomorrow, rest..." Luna wrapped a wing around me preparing to teleport. "Celestia... Do you feel something for him?"

Her head shot up looking at me. "I... I... Yes..." She whispered laying her head upon his chest as Luna and I disappeared.

The chamber we appeared in could be one of any in the palace, a small bathroom and shower, comfy bed and a balcony looking out over the kingdom. I collapsed onto the bed pulling Luna playfully with me. "Well that was interesting..."

"Tia was glued to the wall watching and listening to you two."

"How long?"

"Long enough, don't you think you should have gone a bit slower?"

"Maybe... But why prolong it? He's got to adapt... I know that was rough on him, but it would've been a shock either way... Though it seems he has a reason to adapt eh? Just how long has he been here?"

"Three days but Tia's been his guardian angel from the beginning... I mean I understand she felt guilty but I'm so glad it's something more!" She giggled.

"I hope so, not just some... 'Puppy-love', it's hard to believe... Ok, ok I'm not one to talk. I'm happy for them both I hope they can make it work, I hope he can make it work, hard to adjust."

Luna smiled nudging me. "You did fine and so will he... I hope, Tia's been hurt before..."

"I remember, let's hope for the best..."

"Spike's not going to be happy."

"Spike? What about Discord?!"

"He'll be fine... I'll make sure of that." She giggled again.

I laughed and relaxed back with a sigh, Luna looked at me curiously. "What’s on your mind Rick?"

"Just worried about your sister and John..." She arched an eyebrow at me.

"Okay... Not so worried about that now, just missing Twi and the girls. Things have been pretty busy lately and Twi and I haven't had much time..."

"Ooh..." She smiled knowingly. "I see... No time for..." She giggled.

"Luna..." I gave her a gentle push. "That’s ok we'll make due..."

"Well I could help you with that..." I looked at her astonished, she looked back at me cocking her head. "What...?" She immediately went red clapping her hooves over her mouth. "In the dream! The dream! I could connect you and Twilight! Oh gods!"

She buried her head in the pillow as I laughed uproariously, I hugged her tightly. "Thanks Luna, I needed that and I would love to see Twi tonight."

She lifted her head up smiling. "I'll do that, sweet dreams Rick..." She smiled mischievously before looking off in the distance I assumed towards her sister and John.

"Something the matter Luna?" I asked worriedly.

"No, it's just... He's dreaming. His dreams though are something I shall ask him about later. Goodnight, Rick." And with that she disappeared in a flash of light.

I thumped back to the mattress sighing heavily, what a day... I got up and had a quick shower laying down and getting comfortable in the crisp sheets, Twilight...

A sky full of bright stars... I smiled and looked over finding Twilight lying beside me just turning over herself. "Rick!"

"Hey love, Luna granted me a favor..."

"I see..." She looked around and seeing nothing smiled slyly. "Let the games begin..." She giggled as she tackled me both of us tumbling to the clouds...

Dreams... Things always seem to move so slowly, a dream could seem to take hours yet you've only been asleep for minutes. We had plenty of time to talk, discuss Celestia and John and just what this could mean, and of course we had time for... Other, distractions...

Dawns light awoke me and I stretched feeling pretty comfortable trying to remember last night’s dream but most of it was fleeting... Checking I found it to be nearly nine in the morning, fairly late for me but it had been a long night. I got up and dressed finding a breakfast tray waiting for me, I ate and made my way down the tower trying to orient myself eventually finding my way back to the throne room where I again stayed in the back to watch Princess Celestia deal with her duties, she didn't look too tired in fact a bit elated.

I had no doubt she had seen me and as noon passed and she called for a lunch break she gave me a barely perceptible nod as she headed out of the room, I followed meeting her where I had the day before.

I bowed with a smile. "You’re looking well this morning Princess, Late night...?"

She smiled warmly. "A bit, but well worth it. And you slept well?"

Her smirk told me she had a good idea how Luna had helped. "I certainly did... And John...?"

"Let us go and see for ourselves..." She extended her wing and again we teleported finding ourselves in a familiar room, though surprisingly now the medical paraphernalia was gone opening the room right up, the window was open sunlight streaming in but John was still fast asleep.

"How's he faring?" I asked quietly.

"He had a great deal of questions and concerns but he seemed more willing to accept certain truths from me then you... No offence." She whispered.

"None taken, you'll both be alright then?"

She looked over at him and smiled softly. "I think so... It's going to take time but I think... I hope..."

"What did you talk about...? If you don't mind me asking?"

"A great deal..." She teleported us into the other chamber so we could talking without disturbing John and she shared at least some of what they talked about, through the transparent window we could see John was still asleep when we had to stop. She only had a half hour for lunch and she teleported us back to the back room when we had to stop.

"Again my deepest thanks Sir Sparkle, without your assistance I am not sure what we would have done." She smiled with a wink.

I glanced and noticed the door was slightly ajar and played along. "I am naturally at your service Princess whenever you need, best of luck." I bowed deeply.

"Say hello to Twilight for me." She nodded back exiting the guards closing the doors tightly behind her.

"Looks like things went well..." Came a voice from the shadows making me jump as Luna stepped forth. "Sorry..." She grinned.

"No problem, shouldn't you be asleep?"

"I was but I wanted to thank you too for helping us..."

"Luna, you know I can never repay what you've done for us. Princess Celestia too, so not another word about it."

She smiled shaking her head. "Understood, here..." She floated a worn unmarked tome over to me."

"What’s this?"

"A book of unfinished spells created by Starswirl the Bearded, my sister feels Twilight may be able to make something of them..."

"Well I'm pretty sure she won't have a problem with that." I chuckled.

"Indeed... Do you wish for a teleport to the train station?"

"No rush Luna, I've still got some time I thought I'd look around Canterlot a little."

"Sounds like a plan..."

I stepped over and embraced her. "See you later Luna, sleep tight."

She held me a moment then stepped back and smiled. "Until we meet again..." And she was gone.

I made my way out of the palace heading towards the train station but window shopping and taking my time the ancient book tucked under my arm, things were looking good. Who knows what the future might hold...?

Chapter 16 (What was left behind. Part 1)

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For good or ill John had been introduced into Equestrian society, well... Partially, no one else knew he was here but considering the circumstances of his arrival he was adjusting well, as well as he could I imagined Celestia had something to do with that though after talking with her a bit longer it seemed to me he wasn't very happy with his life before... Still losing your friends and family in the blink of an eye isn't easy, I knew.

I was on my way back to the train station late that afternoon, no need for me to stay Celestia and Luna had each thanked me profusely for my help but I think he would have come around on his own... Eventually. I wished them the best, love notwithstanding their trials were just starting... While small town Ponyville had accepted me here in Canterlot my Knighthood and high regard from the Princess’s didn't count for much, it didn't stop the stares, pointing or ponies crossing the street when they saw me coming. Not all of them of course but John I had no doubt would fare far worse regardless of... No, even because of his relationship Celestia, much worse...

I put those troubling thoughts aside, hopefully they'd be fine...

"Riiick!"

Hmm? I turned looking for whoever was calling out and found Spike running towards me as well as he could weighed down by several bags, I waited for him to catch up then to catch his breath.

"Good to see you Spike, how are you? Sorry I didn't get to see you this visit... Well other than now."

He carefully set down his bags. "I didn't even know you were here!"

"Oh, just came by to help Princess Celestia and Luna with something..." I had to tread carefully Spike didn't know yet and I wasn't sure if he was going to be a jealous dragon or happy for his mom and potential dad. Probably both...

"Really? Does it have anything to do with why mom's been acting so funny lately? I've hardly seen her and when I do she usually doesn't have long... Do... Do you think she's tired of me?"

"Spike..." I knelt down and gave him a comforting hug. "I can't tell you exactly what's going on but I assure you it's nothing like that, she loves you as much as ever she's just been distracted by things lately, and while I've helped her with that the distraction will continue... You'll understand when you see, maybe... But I'm sure she'll tell you soon."

"Really? Thanks... I... I was worried a little..."

"A little?"

"Okay a lot." He gestured to the bags he had. "I'm going to make her a special dinner tonight all by myself!"

He had all sorts of ingredients and I knew from Twilight he was quite an accomplished baker, dinner eh? A good time to introduce someone perhaps...?

"Very cool Spike, I know she'll love it. You should tell her I thought it was a good time to introduce you to her new friend..."

"A new friend...?"

"You'll see buddy."

"Ok, thanks! Well I better run it's getting late, give my love to everyone!"

"Will do Spike."

He ran off with his bags eager to get started, I smiled watching him go, I hoped they'd get along... I got to the train station and purchased my ticket, I suppose I could have gotten one for free and my medallion and knighthood was also a key of sorts allowing me access to and free passage wherever I might need to go but it wasn't necessary right now so why use it?

I found a seat and looked around hopefully, nope no Lyra... Too bad, still the ride home always seemed faster. As we got underway I let myself doze off the announcer would wake me when we arrived in Ponyville...

"Ponyville station!"

I jerked awake grabbing the book beside me making sure I hadn’t knocked it over while I slept. It was strange with everything going on with Princess Celestia right now she still had these little 'tests' or homework for Twi. However I knew she wouldn't mind in the least, I liked to read but when you had to puzzle over something trying to read it, translate it, read it again and then try to figure out what you just read?! Not my idea of a good time, Twilight however... She'd love it.

After last nights... Rendezvous I hadn’t been sure I would be making it home today though I had told her I would try, no one was waiting as I disembarked though so I assumed neither Celestia nor Luna had sent any word ahead. Both busy I was sure, hopefully Celestia had a nice dinner with Spike and was introducing him to her new... 'Friend'.

It was quite late nearly ten but there were still a few ponies out and about either on their way home or the few who worked the night shift, I greeted them exchanging a few words and a goodnight still eager to get home. I peeked through the window finding Twilight cleaning up in the kitchen no sign of my two girls both probably in bed already. I snuck around to Scootaloo's window and looked in surprised to find a new addition, a bunk bed with my Angel up top and my little baby below, Star was fast asleep it appeared but I could see a little light beneath my Angel’s covers, up reading comics again?

I teleported the few feet into the room sneaking over to the bunks the top one about chest height on me, I leaned close whispering. "School day tomorrow Angel, you should be asleep."

"Dad!" She kicked back her covers excitedly which had thankfully muffled her a bit and hadn't awoken Star.

"Shh..." I hugged her tightly kissing her forehead. "Let Star sleep..."

"I'm so glad your home!" She whispered hugging me back.

"A few changes I see..."

"Ya, Star wanted to sleep with me every night so... Well I figured we should both have a bed..."

"That’s very thoughtful of you, tell me all about it tomorrow over breakfast ok? But you should sleep now."

She yawned snuggling back down in her bed as I tucked her in. "Okay... Love you..."

"Love you..." I knelt down brushing Stars mane aside to kiss her forehead softly rubbing her chest her forehooves closing tightly around my wrist always made me choke up a little. "Love you baby, sleep tight..."

I pulled away gently moving out of the room leaving the door open a crack sneaking my way to the kitchen where Twi was washing a last few dishes, either I was particularly sneaky today or she was humoring me as I got right behind her wrapping my arms around her and kissing her ear softly.

No place like home...

She jumped with a little squeak but turned in my embrace to hold me both of us kissing passionately.

Sneaky... Missed you.

Missed you, I saw the bunk beds. Isn't it too soon? She can still...

Shh my love, it's just for them. Sometimes they'll want to be together sometimes they won't, you worry so...

Just don't want to let them go...

I know... I know, I feel the same. We've got lots of time with them still and even when they grow up... We'll still see them... They'll still... She sobbed and I hugged her even tighter.

I hadn’t thought she really worried about that, ponies seemed to grow up so fast... Maybe I was rubbing off on her. I kissed away her tears gently rubbing her back. "Its ok love, nothing to worry about right now. We're all together and that’s all that matters..."

"Mmm..." She nuzzled against me kissing my neck. "Your right..." She sighed. "I missed you, the dream world is nice but somehow it just doesn't compare to reality... Strange isn't it?"

"Not at all..." I scooped her up into my arms with a soft kiss.

"Riick... The dishes..."

"I'll do them in the morning, right now all I want is you..."

"Daddy...?" A sleepy little foal stumbled into the kitchen blinking, Twi levitated her up between us where she yawned adorably.

"I thought you were sleeping baby?"

"Tought I eard you..."

"You sure did, let’s go to bed..." I got a few steps towards the stairs when I heard a few light hoofclicks behind us making me smile. "Come on Angel..."

In a flutter of wings and a small giggle she was hanging onto my back as I carried my three girls up to bed the four of us snuggling down together easily slipping off to sleep together. Just as it should be...

The next morning I woke up warm and content a little filly sprawled out on top of me Twilight beside me face to face out baby snuggled between us, couldn't be more comfortable... I reached out and turned off the alarm by our bed I'm sure we could all use a few more minutes anyhow, I gently rubbed Scootaloo's back with one hand squeezing Twi's hoof with the other as she smiled to me, she was always up before the alarm too made we wonder why we bothered at all...? I'm sure the one time we didn't set it we'd be sleeping till noon, not a bad idea...

"Morning love..."

"Morning..."

"I forgot to tell you last night Princess Celestia sent something for you."

"Oh?"

"An old book of spells that belonged to Starswirl the Bearded..."

Her eyes lit up but she contained herself. "I can't wait to read it."

"I figured as much..."

She closed her eyes and sighed. "But right now I don't want to move an inch..."

We just lay there another ten minutes quietly talking about the Princess and John and what their future might hold, Star and Scootaloo began to stir at the same time Star hungrily seeking out Twi's teats while Scootaloo grumpily yawned and jealously watched.

"Come on Angel, let's go make some breakfast."

"Kay..."

I gathered her up enveloping her in my robe as I put it on ending up with her head poking out just below mine giggling as I carefully made my way to the kitchen. We made a quick breakfast for us all and got her ready for school while she told me about their decision to get the bunk beds the day before.

"I'll come get you after school if you still want to help me?"

"Yes! Thanks dad! Bye mom! Bye Star!" I gave her a squeeze and she flew off.

Softie...

Heh... She'll learn something not to worry.

I know. "Let's go for a walk shall we? As much as I would like to start..." She looked back at the book sitting on her desk. "Plenty of time for that later."

"Ok mommy!"

"Sounds good to me."

We meandered through town exchanging goods mornings with ponies out and about Star galloped ahead and back letting us carry her when she tired herself out. The market was open and not too busy by the time we got there, we picked up a few things and found Fluttershy already loaded down with groceries which I quickly took from her.

"Oh! You don't have to..."

"Don't be silly Fluttershy." Twilight smiled levitating a few herself as Star tried to climb Fluttershy’s leg looking for cuddles and attention which she got naturally. "This is a lot of groceries even for you Fluttershy, I know you have a lot of mouths to feed but..."

"Only some is for that..." She explained as we walked making our way toward her cottage. "Rainbow Dash, Gilda and Storm are coming over tonight for supper and I've got a feeling I'll need a lot..."

I chuckled. "You’re probably right about that..."

"Oh! I'm sorry I didn't invite you! I... I could go get more..." She half turned back towards town before Twilight stopped her.

"That’s ok Fluttershy, actually we were going to ask you if you wanted to have Star and Scootaloo over for a sleepover..."

Fluttershy gasped turning to look at the little foal snuggled up on her back with a smile, Star loved all her god mothers naturally but she was closest with... well Luna in her dreams to be sure but she rarely got to see her in the flesh. In Ponyville Fluttershy was her favorite closely followed by Pinkie, not to diminish the others in the least.

She loved to play on the farm following Applejack around marveling at her apple bucking skills and trying her own little back legs at it.

Rarity adored dressing her up she, Sweetie Belle and her having elaborate tea parties with stuffed animals and all.

Rainbow Dash had on several occasions taken her and Scootaloo out flying and as terrifying as it was for me and Twi she always had a great time.

Pinkie Pie... Well she always went all out to make sure Star had fun. Pumpkin, Pound Cake and Star all got along famously too.

Fluttershy though... She was different, she never treated her like a foal, an obligation even a godchild. Just equal as any creature she cared for and loved, Star loved to be babied, pampered and cooed over but that sort of equality she'd never really had before. I was guilty as any I supposed I treated her as my precious baby who I would love and protect always, and I always will...

"I would love to..."

"We don't want to intrude Shy and you've got guests coming over already..."

"What dinner party wouldn't be enhanced by Star and Scootaloo's presence?" She smirked.

"They can be quite a hoof full together..."

"Twilight, Rick... I love spending time with them and if you two need some... Alone time, I'm more than happy to help out."

Sure didn't take long for her to see through us, Fluttershy was far more astute then most gave her credit for, I smiled. "Then all we can say is thank you Fluttershy."

"Thank you."

"Tank you auntie!"

We were coming up to her cottage the door already open and Angel bunny waiting tapping his paw impatiently. "I'll just get supper started if you want to bring Star by in a few hours and Scootaloo after school?"

That will be fine I..." I froze along with Twilight seeing the figure lounging on Fluttershy’s couch.

"Discord?!" We gasped together.

"Oh... Did I forget to mention Discord was going to be coming too...? Sorry..." Fluttershy whispered blushing.

"Well I'm glad to see your back Fluttershy dear, your bunny is terrible company... Oh! Twilight Sparkle and... Rick." He sneered at me with a grin, while he certainly didn't trust me he seemed to have a small bit of grudging respect for me at least...

"Unca Cord! Unca Cord!" Star leapt off Fluttershy’s back galloping to him before I could react, he caught her up with his nimble tail tossing her high in the air making my heart skip a beat but catching her easily chuckling as she nuzzled against him. "Good to see you little Star..." He whispered.

As surprising as it was to me it did make sense, Star loved Luna and naturally Discord would be there in the dream with them during their playtime, not sure how I felt about that... I pulled her away from him gently trying not to offend. "It's quite a jaunt from Canterlot... Did you take the train?"

He laughed uproariously his arms and tail detaching taking up grocery bags following Fluttershy into the kitchen to put things away and help with dinner. "I've got many methods of travel far beyond the dreams of ponies and humans..." He teased.

"That doesn't seem likely, even the Princesses have to expend an impressive amount of power to teleport this far, I highly doubt you have a better way of doing it..." Twilight mused.

"Oh really? Well then get a load of this..." He snapped his fingers over in the kitchen and they as well as his body disappeared then reappeared moments later a long strand of effervescing rainbow colored hair in his grasp. "Look familiar, hmm...?" He chuckled.

Twilight examined the strand a moment before gasping. "Did you interrupt Princess Celestia's court just to prove a point?!"

"It would hardly be the first time, but no. She was taking a break up in a... Small... Room... With a... Human...?" His look shifted from confused to angry and back again, I quickly interrupted him before he did anything rash.

"Wait! I can explain..."

"Can you?! Another invader! And I was assured you were the only one!"

"An accident..."

"Another? I'm sure... Are your kind coming through the portal en-masse now?!"

"No, no. Though it had apparently been weakening, Princess Celestia has sealed it securely now..."

"I'll be the judge of that!" Again he vanished taking longer this time, ten seconds than twenty. We all looked around confused and a little concerned when he reappeared scowling and singed all over. "Fine... I'll concede the portal is sealed..."

Before he did anything else I began explaining just how John came to Equestria and while his frown did fade as he and Fluttershy listened intently the look in his eyes remained disturbing. I wasn't sure it was my place to mention Celestia and Johns burgeoning relationship I still did so if only to let Discord know that any harm that might come to John wouldn't be wise...

He and Fluttershy sat side by side as I finished with very different expressions, hers was of wonder and excitement for them while his was more of disgust and disapproval with a hint of amusement. "Ookay, let me get this perfectly straight. Celestia, possibly the most powerful being on this planet..." He cleared his throat brushing back his hair. "Present company excluded naturally... Has fallen in 'puppy' love with some random insignificant human?! It's preposterous!" He laughed as Fluttershy scowled disapprovingly at him.

"Discord! Love is a beautiful thing no matter the differences between them, you ought to know that better than anyone!" His look immediately turned sheepish as he turned to her. "Just because some of us..." Her eyes welled up with tears making me want nothing more than to hug her when Discord surprised me kneeling down and embracing her tenderly, lifting Star up with his tail to cuddle against her she too trying to make her feel better.

"Your right Fluttershy, sometimes... Sometimes I forget, I'm sorry."

"That’s ok..." She sniffed wiping her eyes and nuzzling Star. "It's ok sweetie, oh my look at the time! I had best get busy!" She raced off to the kitchen calling out behind her. "We'll see you in a couple hours Star! Discord help me!"

He chuckled and turned to go mussing up Stars mane his head turning to regard me as his body walked off stretching his neck impossibly long. "Hmm... I suppose another human around could be useful especially if he can manage to dislodge that stick in Celestias butt!" He laughed his head springing back to his body as he helped Fluttershy.

We left them to it heading back towards town. "I'm not sure how I feel about letting you know who spend so much... Or any time with Star..."

"Rick! You know... L-u-n-a would never let any harm come to her, Fluttershy either."

"Yeah... Your right, just surprising is all if anything I'm sure she'll be a good influence on him." I chuckled scooping her up and giving her a hug setting her on her mother’s back.

"Definitely, it's getting close to three you better head to the school. I'll take care of everything for tonight." She smiled.

"Thanks love." I gave her a soft kiss and one for Star as well. "Have fun with Fluttershy baby."

"Auntie!"

I made a beeline towards the school determined to get there before the bell rang, I jogged up relieved that I hadn’t heard the bell and the area wasn't flooded with school filly and colts. I leaned back against a tree to rest a moment as I waited but not for long...

RING!!!

Slowly you could feel and hear the clatter of hooves, cheers and talking building as suddenly the front doors burst open and filly’s and colts streamed out finally free of their prison no worries, no cares well until tomorrow at least. I remembered that feeling... I just waited there smiling at the cute little ponies until I caught a glimpse of my own little Angel exiting with her friends, they chatted a moment before splitting up and she looked around spotting me easily and taking wing flying into my arms.

"Heya Angel."

"Hi dad!"

"Ready to go?"

"You bet!"

I lifted her up onto my shoulders and we headed out of town, she'd fly ahead on occasion showing me some aerial maneuvers Dash had taught her and some she'd even created herself, she was going to be some serious competition at the next young flyers competition I was sure. We reached the far edge of the Everfree and the first runestone, I uncovered it showing her the simple arrangement of stones I put over it so I would remember where it was buried and charged it, it had been quite low I'd been away for too long so I made sure to check the area very carefully showing and explaining to Scootaloo what I was looking for and why.

I was worried she might get bored but she remained rapt asking lots of questions which I was more than happy to answer, we took a few breaks and I asked her about school and got a few more details about her time with the pets as well as her ride to, time at and ride home from the Crystal Empire.

It was getting onto late afternoon when we finished it had taken longer than I anticipated, I detoured us towards Fluttershy’s rather than the way home.

"I forgot to mention Angel, would you like to stay at Fluttershy’s tonight? Star should already be there."

"Sure... But why?"

"Oh your mother and I just need a night alone now and then."

"Ew..."

"Angel!" I chuckled. "You know Rainbow Dash, her friend Gilda and her coltfriend Jackpot Storm will be there for supper tonight... Discord too..."

"Really?! Wow... Let’s go dad!" She took off with me in tow making not quite a bee-line for Fluttershy’s due to my unfortunate lack of wings still a few short minutes later we arrived me a little out of breath but my little Angel bright eyes and eager as I knocked and Fluttershy answered.

"Oh good your here! Just in time Scootaloo, I saved you a seat by Rainbow Dash..."

Her wings flapped excitedly and she hovered a moment beside me nuzzling against me. "Thanks dad, see you tomorrow!" Before she rushed in.

"Kids..." Fluttershy smiled.

"Twi dropped off Star?"

"Oh yes and that’s not all..." She turned away then came back with a small stack of cards neatly strung together. "Read the top one first." She giggled passing them to me. "I'll bring the girls home tomorrow after school ok?"

"Sounds good to me Shy, thanks."

"No thanks needed, go on, she's waiting..." She smiled slyly as she shut the door making it seem likely Twi may have shared some of her plans for tonight like best girl... Marefriends do I supposed.

I turned back towards town flipping open the top of the booklet to read the first card. 'Come home and have a nice shower.' Made sense, it had been a busy day and I certainly could use one. I was curious what she had planned and was tempted to peek ahead but... Nah, the anticipation and surprise would make it all the more fun. No need to dawdle I jogged home passing ponies with a 'good afternoon' here and there, the library was dark I guess she wasn't home? I sat the booklet down on the couch and headed to the washroom getting undressed and starting a nice hot shower, I relaxed a moment enjoying the heat when the lights suddenly went out and before I could react I found myself with a soft wholly desirable armful her sweet lips pressed against mine, sneaky mare...

"Twi..."

"Shh..." She interrupted with another passionate kiss both of us caressing the other our passion growing and growing until she pushed me slightly away whispering in my ear. "Next page..." And vanished, that little tease...

I felt around in the dark until I located the light switch then turned off the shower and dried off, I found no trace of her when I exited the bathroom all the way up to our room, there was a towel hanging by the window to dry off and the booklet awaiting me on her pillow. 'A nice outfit and meet me at Chez Cora.' Ponyville’s high society... No, not really just a restaurant where you could pretend you were more like. They had excellent food at very reasonable prices and a beautiful restaurant I had no doubt the same fare and ambiance in Canterlot would cost ten times as much.

I got dressed and went directly there as soon as I entered I was ushered to a quiet corner booth where my beautiful wife waited, I slid in across from her she already had a drink waiting for me and herself.

"See? I told you I'd take care of everything." She smiled.

"Never had any doubt love..." I reached over to squeeze and gently stroke her forehoof. "So what’s next on the agenda?"

"Take a look."

"What if I didn't bring the booklet?"

She gave me a 'oh please' look making me grin as I pulled it out of my coat pocket flipping past the first two cards to the third staring at it a moment... Blank? I flipped to the next and the next and all the way through and back again, all blank but the first two...

She giggled at my confused look. "I know I can be a bit... Overboard with my scheduling and planning all the time..." Honestly it didn't bother me at all, I found it so cute and I would have told her so but she continued. "... But some things..." She put her forehoof on my hand holding her other hoof and I clasped it as well smiling. "Just can't be planned, scheduled or hardly even understood! Scootaloo and Star have nailed that home to be sure..." She giggled again.

Tears were beginning to form in the corners of her eyes probably mine too, her voice was filled with emotion she had something to get off her chest and I wasn't about to interrupt her.

"You show me, tell me every day how much you love me, need me... It feels like I don't do enough sometimes, when I wake up in the middle of the night sometimes with your arms around me or my head on your chest feeling every breath... Every beat of our hearts... I feel so at peace but ashamed too. Your family, friends gone... When you told me about John it all came flooding back how lonely you must have been, might even still be! I couldn't bear to be without my friends and family, what right do I have to keep you for myself...? I’m so selfish..."

So that was what was bothering her, to be honest thoughts of my family did pop up now and then naturally, I missed them but I knew they would and no doubt had continued on without me and if they knew how happy I was now...? Well they would be too. I certainly didn't blame her, Zecora or anyone. I moved around beside her still holding on kissing her softly.

"Twilight... I meant every word I said on our wedding day, my heart, my body and my soul are yours. They don't belong anywhere else, with anyone else... Even if we weren't connected..." She put her forehoof on my chest as I put my hand on hers. "Even if the portal was open day and night I wouldn't want to leave you, people and ponies search their whole lives for something... Someone... I found my someone, against all odds and I'm not letting go, never..."

"Oh..." She burst into tears I'd be lying if I said I didn't add to them. "I... I... I love you! Thank you!"

We kissed passionately. "Thank me? Thank you love, so much..."

We held each other a few minutes more until interrupted by a soft cough, looking we found a waitress waiting to the side trying her best to look nonchalant.

"Sorry about that..." I apologized wiping my and Twi's tears away.

"I... I didn't want to intrude but..." She looked behind her at the bustling restaurant with a sheepish smile.

"We're ready to order, thank you for waiting for us..." Twilight smiled, we both ordered and talked a bit more while we waited for our food. A little reassurance was all she had needed I guess and we made no further mention of it. Sitting across from her again we engaged in a playful game of 'footsies' / 'hoofsies' until our food arrived and we enjoyed our delicious dinner. I made sure to leave a generous tip to hopefully make amends.

It was later evening when we left around nine, we walked through town side by side greeting other ponies eventually stopping in a small quiet park and sat together on a bench. I was painfully aware of every part of her, her soft fur, her intoxicating scent, her silken mane and tail, her eyes... Those deep enough to drown in eyes... I wanted her, needed her but a public park wasn't the best place for such things.

I still wasn't quite sure she knew just how deep an effect she had on me, no matter... I stood up and offered her my hand helping her to stand upright as we came together a soft melody began playing her horn glowing lightly as we swayed together in the moonlight.

"Mmm... I could just stay like this forever..." She whispered.

"Me too..."

We danced awhile not a care in the world then made our way home I lifted her up carrying her across the threshold as I liked to do carrying her up to our bed kissing all the way feverishly removing one another’s clothing falling into bed our built up passion exploding again and again... Around two we collapsed entwined together in the wreck of our bed pleasantly exhausted we easily slipped off to sleep...

I awoke the next morning, well late morning by the sun streaming through into the room, Twi was sat up beside me a book levitated before her as she intently studied it. I took a glimpse but immediately looked away the words on it seemed to writhe and swim across the page a sure sign of powerful magic.

"Just couldn't wait huh?" I whispered rubbing her chest.

She smiled leaning over so we could kiss. "It's fascinating, Starswirl the Bearded created so many spells I never thought of him having spells that were unfinished! The first couple seemed like he just hadn't gotten around to finishing them but this one it seems like he was really stuck! 'Ascension of those suitably powered to a level beyond'..."

"Sounds like serious stuff..."

"It is! It might take years to unravel or it might not even be possible!"

I continued to rub her chest kissing her neck. "I have every bit of faith if anyone can figure it out it's you love."

"I can always count on you can't I." She levitated the book aside snuggling down in my embrace. "Love you."

"Love you." We kissed a few times then with greater need.

"Schools still not out for a while..." She giggled.

Well, whatever shall we do to pass the time...?

We enjoyed a relaxing shower afterwards washing then drying one another then did a little tidying up around the library until a little after three when an energetic filly and foal burst in through the front door followed by Fluttershy.

"Mommy, daddy!"

We caught up little Star giving her hugs and kisses. "Hey baby..." I whispered. "How did everything go?" I asked Fluttershy.

"It was wonderful, they were both as good as gold." She smiled.

"And your dinner party?"

"It went very well too thank you for asking Twilight, there were a few... Personality conflicts but nothing major, by the end of the night we were all laughing together. These two certainly had something to do with that." She nodded towards Star and Scootaloo.

"It was so cool dad! Discord did tricks and Rainbow Dash said I was a horseshoe-in for the Wonderbolts someday! And her friend Gilda is so cool! Oh, Storms pretty cool too..."

"I'm glad you had a good time Angel."

"Thank you again Fluttershy, we know how crazy these two can be..." Twilight giggled.

"Moom!"

We all laughed and invited Fluttershy to stay for an early dinner which she did staying until late that evening before taking off flying for home. We tucked Scootaloo and Star in their bunk beds then cleaned up from dinner relaxing together on the couch reading for a while before retiring to bed, she was still pouring over Starswirls tome muttering to herself.

I chuckled rubbing her back. "You've got plenty of time to wring all the secrets out of it love, but you need sleep too."

"I know..." She smiled. "But look here, you see how the spell is worded it's so strange..."

I took a look but despite my limited magical knowledge it was still far too complex for me to understand. "A pony ahead of his time clearly."

"Yes... Hmm... If I just change this definition... And switch these two..." Her horn began to glow lightly.

"Uh Twi are you sure you should..."

She had become so absorbed in the spell it seemed she lost herself a moment, she blinked regaining her senses but it was too late... The pulse of magic she gave off was strong passing through walls, floor and ceiling in a blink. Through me as well but I felt nothing good or ill from it, we both rushed to the window but there was nothing to be seen how far did it...

I jerked slightly as I felt it hit the wards around the Everfree one after another not moving nearly as fast must be at the limit of its range I thought to myself... We listened and looked for anyone, any reaction to the spell at all but nothing... Not even in our own home though the power of it had rattled windows and shook the branches Star and Scootaloo remained fast asleep when we checked on them.

We sank back into bed with a relieved sigh, Twi closed the book putting it in a drawer cautiously. "I... I better be more careful! I could have..."

"It's ok love, no harm done right?"

"Right... No harm done..."

We cuddled down our rush of adrenalin wearing off and we slipped into sleep. I wonder what other tricks Starswirl the Bearded has in store for us...?

Interlude: Placeholder

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Thought you were getting a chapter? Nope! Heh sorry, there will be a chapter here eventually featuring John and Celestia coming to terms with... Well, everything! But someone else is writing that so I figured I would put a placeholder here for that day.

Tomorrow however you will have part two of What was left behind. Thanks for the patience should have been done SO much sooner lol Sigh, procrastination thy name is Rick. Anyhow sleep tight and talk to you again tomorrow... Later tomorrow, after work. Ciao

Rick

Chapter 17 (What was left behind. Part 2)

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The next morning started like any other, wake up kiss my love drag a sleepy grumpy filly out of bed her sister giggling all the while. Some breakfast for us all and get her ready for school, only after we'd sent her off and cleaned up that things started to get a little... Weird. We'd just finished changing Star and were deciding on what to do today...

"I think I'm going to look through the book a little more but down in the study." Twi smiled sheepishly.

"Sounds good, I think I'll check the wards again make sure they weren't knocked out of alignment or anything."

"Better safe than sorry, sorry..." She looked down until I knelt down tilting her head up to kiss her softly.

"No blame love, I'll leave the little troublemaker here today." I grinned scooping her up and tickling her little belly making her squeal.

"Daddy!"

I gave her a kiss and set her on Twilights back making her smile. "See you at lunch my love."

"You bet love." We kissed once more and I set out, it didn't take me too long to see something was amiss. The ground was damp but I couldn't remember there being a shower scheduled... Well I didn't check the weather teams plans all the time. I detoured around town heading directly towards the Everfree forest, I was slightly concerned about what had happened last night though we hadn’t seen any effects that didn't mean there couldn't have been some...

I reached the first Wardstone and checked it over carefully, it seemed to be functioning properly. I returned it and moved to the next and next, all seemed fine to my relief. Not that there was anything to fear in the forest... Well ok there were a few things but they rarely ever came out of the forest even before the Wardstones and after only once or twice had I ever seen tracks of creatures that shouldn't be leaving the forest bumping into the barrier.

That out of the way I decided to head over to Fluttershy’s cottage to thank her for having the girls over the other night and frankly she still seemed... Lonely, I was sure Trixie’s betrayal and absence from her life still bothered her greatly and why wouldn't it?

As I approached though all clearly wasn't well, birds flitted in and out of the windows and the front door was wide open, I hurried up concerned sticking my head in and was more than a little surprised to find Dash there trying to corral the critters with her usual techniques and having predictable results.

"Dash! What’s going on? Where's Fluttershy?"

"Fluttershy?" She paused a moment as if lost in thought all the animals looking towards me hopefully but she shook her head interrupting the moment. "Probably in town, why would she be here? She's got her own job to do... Come here you little..." She dove for Angel bunny who swiftly stepped aside letting her slam into the couch flipping over it and as she did I noticed something very strange, three butterfly’s on her flank where her cloud and lightning bolt cutie-mark should have been! I moved closer to verify it wasn't just three butterflies who happened to be sitting there and... As impossible as that might seem the truth was nearly as hard to believe either scenario was equally unlikely, I ran my hand over seeing if it was perhaps painted on or just a cover of some kind, some elaborate joke...? But all I felt was her firm muscular flank and soft fur.

"Hey! I know I said some touching was ok but don't go too far mister married to one of my best friends..." She grinned sticking her tongue out at me.

Well there was a little of the Dash I knew, but it passed and she again began to try to get the animals in line. Something was very wrong, I knelt down and pulled her in for a hug whispering. "We'll figure this out Dash, just hang in there."

She hugged me back a moment then pulled free. "I don't know what you mean, this is my destiny..." And went back to the animals, the look on her face was... Wrong, it was like she knew what she was doing wasn't right but she was powerless to stop it. There wasn't anything I could do about it right now though I was growing worried, if this spread all over... Things were going to be much worse in town...

As much as I wanted to run right back to the library I was on the outskirts and it would be easy to make a small detour to check on Sweet Apple Acres, things were definitely off here too, unusually quiet but with sudden outbursts of angry muttering that died down only to start up somewhere else...

I rounded a corner hoping for the best but expecting the worst, Big Mac, Inkie and Granny Smith stood watching Pinkie...? Pinkie of all ponies doing her best to collect the eggs from the farms chicken coop and wincing when it became apparent her best wasn't that good. Chickens were running pell-mell and only a few eggs went unbroken.

"Pinkie! What are you doing?"

She didn't look like herself at all either her usually bouncy mane and tail hung straight and much like Dash she had a strange look in her eyes... "What do you mean Rick? I've got so many chores I don't know how I'll ever get them done!"

And right there plain as day Applejacks cutie mark on her flank though when I looked over to the others their marks were all still in their proper places...

"This isn't where you work Pinkie, you work at the Cake's bakery and in your spare time you love throwing parties at the drop of a hat for anyone! Making everyone happy..."

"The... Cakes...? Happy...?" For a moment I thought I could see something peeking through but just like Dash it passed. "I don't have time to make anyone happy! I've got to keep the farm running, it's my destiny!" And with that she rushed off to another chore.

I turned to the small group. "What happened?"

"We don't know! It must have happened last night, Applejack was nowhere to be found this morning..." Inkie explained.

"That’s not so strange youngin, sometimes she wakes up earlyer'n all of us ta start work."

"Eeyup..."

"It was only after we got Apple Bloom off to school that we realized something was wrong, Winona was barking like mad and when Mac and I went to investigate we found her chasing Pinkie around and Pinkie doing all Applejacks chores! She wouldn't listen to any of us! And, and Applejacks cutie mark...!"

"There’s somethin mighty unnatural at work that’s fer sure, but ah can't figure out what..."

"Eeyup."

I was getting a sinking feeling but I still couldn't be sure a lot of crazy things could happen... Oh who was I kidding? Oh Twi, we're in it now... "Don't worry I'm sure Twilight will be able to help, just make sure she's ok eh? And keep her from doing much damage to your farm!"

"We will!" They promised as Pinkie tore by again.

"Pinkie wait..."

"Whaat?"

I gathered her up in a hug just the kind I knew she loved a big ol bear hug, I could almost feel her... The real her, so close just a bit more...

Reluctantly it seemed she pulled away her face sad. "I've got chores to do..."

"Ok Pinkie..."

And she was off Winona and the others following, oh Twi... I couldn't blame her she didn't know and she had to be true to herself, I headed towards town with purpose now there was a good chance Twi knew what was going on by now but any help I could give her I would... Whoa! I managed to stop just as a small bolt of lightning hit the ground not too far ahead of me.

"Sorry..."

Looking around I located another strange sight in a day full of them, Rarity standing atop a small hill her horn aglow rain splattered and windblown. I approached carefully buffeted by wind, rain and even the occasional small shower of hailstones.

"What’s going on Rarity?"

"Just... Getting... Todays... Weather... In order...!"

While the weather phenomena she was creating certainly was an amazing display they were completely random sending everyone galloping for cover, and there on her flank Dash's mark. What in the actual hell?! "Rarity this isn't... This isn't you, you make dresses, fashion, works of art!"

"F... Fashion? I... I do enjoy fashion but... I could never, it's not my talent... This..." She gestured up to the sunny / rainy / snowing sky. "This is my destiny..."

This destiny thing keeps coming up, not every pony's carrier is based on their mark, a lot of them granted but still clearly something else was at work here. I knelt down to hold her as well trying to... I don't know, will some sense back into her. A pointless endeavor I supposed but maybe it could at the very least let her know someone knew something was wrong. She leaned against me a moment with a sigh.

"Sorry darling, I've got to get back to work..."

"I understand, Twilight and I will be back to see you soon I promise..." I hurried to the library keeping a close watch out for Applejack or Fluttershy both of which I had no doubt were in the same straights as the others but I didn't see them, they could be anywhere...

I burst into the library but all was quiet. Twi?

Downstairs still... She must have been able to sense my worry. What is it?

It's tough to explain but I'll try, come on up you'll want to see this as well I guarantee.

She and Star came up quickly, despite the situation I couldn't help but smile seeing them, the beautiful mare I loved and my little baby laying on her mothers back playing with her mane until she spotted me immediately putting up her forelegs to be picked up. Holding her tight made me feel better, I might not know what to do but together I was sure we had a chance to help them.

"What’s wrong?"

"Well..."

I tried to explain as we walked, anyone could see something was wrong, the weather, ponies stomping around upset and arguing with one another when they weren't fleeing snow, rain and hail... First we stopped by Carousel Boutique hoping to find someone and boy did we, all the drapes were drawn and the front door locked but Twi easily teleported us in and there was Applejack, Rarity's three diamond cutie mark prominant on her flank, we found her sewing? Putting together outfits that even with my complete lack of fashion sense I could easily tell were not right at all...

"Oh! Hey ya'll, sorry stores closed awhile as ah make ma new line fer the year..."

"Your new line...? I... I don't..." Twilight shook her head and attempted a powerful dispelling spell, nothing...

Though I knew it was probably futile I tried to reason with her as Twi tried different spells. "Applejack, this isn't where you belong... The farm, remember the farm? Your family...?"

"Ma... Family...?" Her eyes widened and she even made a step towards the door, she always had a strong will... But it passed and she turned back to the machine and began sewing again. "Nah, they don't need any fancy duds like these out on the farm... This here's where I belong... My destiny..."

"Ok Applejack..." Anything?

I... I don't understand... How did this...? How could I have been so stupid?!

Star gave up trying to get her aunties attention and came back over letting me pick her up nuzzling against me looking confused and sad. Hey now you didn't know...

I should have known! I've read over a thirty books on the dangers of magic everything from Dark magic to Necromancy! I should have... I...

I knelt down and embraced her Star scampering onto her back as Applejack worked on obliviously. That’s how spells are made love, you have to try them, you couldn't have known how strong it turned out to be or the effects it would have. But you can undo it, I know you can.

Rick, I... She smiled softly and we kissed. Ok, I'll... We'll need more information, let's check in on them all. "Come on baby, auntie just needs some time..."

"Auntie..." She sniffed as we teleported out.

"It'll be ok baby." I comforted rubbing her back and kissing her forehead.

Dash had insinuated Fluttershy was here in town so we began looking and asking around, a lot of ponies apparently were having a bad day as we got a lot of snarky comments but eventually we got directed to the fountain in town square where we came across something I certainly didn't expect. Fluttershy decked out in a clown outfit trying to entertain a small group of ponies, juggling, dancing, singing (her voice was quite beautiful but her own insecurity kept getting the best of her stopping and starting, low pitch to high...) The boo's and jeers from the audience weren't helping either though I imagined.

Twilight got busy scanning her and trying a few spells quietly while Star and I watched trying not to interfere with either of them. Star seemed to enjoy her routine laughing and clapping her little hooves together though whether it was for the show or just for Fluttershy I wasn't sure. Ponies came and went but most seemed disinterested, who did they think she was? Pinkie?! Pinkie...? I moved behind her and just as I suspected was Pinkies cutie mark on her. This whole situation is crazy, cutie marks can't mean that much... Can they?

Yes and no... Their an integral part of Equestrian society with deep social and physiological roots... But nothing this deep, nothing like this! Something else is at work here I just can't figure out what!

It's ok love, let’s check with the others.

Ok... "Goodbye Fluttershy, I'm sorry..." She whispered.

Rarity wasn't hard to find we just followed the weather Pegasus darting back and forth the whole squad was out trying to fix the messes she'd made and was still making! I assisted the weather ponies trying to keep things stable while Twi checked over Rarity, she was impressed and confused at how much magic she was able to channel, she was no weakling normally but maintaining and changing the weather was on a different level altogether clearly whatever was going on had driven her to push herself harder or was providing her with additional power. Just another piece of a pretty damn big puzzle...

Again there wasn't much we could so, I assured the weather team we would come up with something apologizing for all the extra work they were having to go through. As hectic as things were the leaders of the weather patrol weren't too upset apparently they had some new recruits and this was excellent practice for them. Star at least was having a good time watching the Pegasus all flying to and fro catching snowflakes, raindrops and squealing and hiding against my chest at the occasional flashes of lightning.

Twilight was getting information and some clues but still we had no ideas... The farm was our next stop, things hadn’t gotten any calmer Granny Smith was resting in her rocking chair watching from afar as Mac and Inkie 'helped' Pinkie and cleaned up after her efforts. Twi and Star followed them trying to get her readings while I walked over to Granny Smith.

"Ah get the feelin you an yer wife there know exactly what’s goin on here Rick..."

I nodded. "We have an idea yes... And we're doing all we can to fix things honestly!"

"Ah don't doubt that... Like this all over town then?"

"Uh... Select ponies..."

"Hmm... Suspected as much."

"You did?"

She chuckled with a smile. "Ah may not know much bout Unicorn magic youngin but I've seen a lot in ma days, friends like them'r joined... Like a copse of trees thar branches an roots intertwined together in harmony..."

"That... That makes a lot of sense..."

"Don't know why this's happened but it aint all bad."

"Hmm?"

"Sure has reminded us all how much we rely on Applejack here... How much we miss'r when she's gone too..."

Interesting... "I hope just a temporary problem..."

"Ah hope so too youngin... Ah hope so too..."

Her head nodded down as she drifted off to sleep then I noticed Twi motioning to me. Anything?

I can't understand this! She just keeps trying even though she's totally unsuited to this work and even more so she doesn't like it! I just don't know what to do...

I leaned down and kissed her softly ruffling Stars mane as I did. "We'll think of something... Let's go see how Dash is doing..."

Or not doing rather, she was collapsed on the couch gasping away while critters of every kind ran amok snagging lots of food, coming and going but not really making a huge mess... Fluttershy might not be here but they still knew this was her home.

"Rainbow Dash! What are you doing?" Twilight exclaimed beginning to scan her and the surrounding area.

"Just taking care of these... Critters... Whew... what a workout!"

"I bet..." I already knew reasoning with her wasn't going to help, I took small comfort in at least none of the girls were hurt... Freaked out I was sure somewhere deep inside they knew and it showed a bit.

Angel bunny caught my attention gesturing and making little noises. "Sorry buddy I can't understand you like Fluttershy can, but I'm pretty sure I know what’s got you worried..." I scratched him gently behind the ears which usually would get me a scornful look and my hand kicked away but he seemed to draw comfort from it leaning against me. "We'll figure something out, just keep yourself and your friend’s safe..." I whispered not even sure he understood me, maybe it was for my own benefit...

"Let's go..." Twi whispered. "We’ll see you soon Rainbow Dash, ok?"

"Huh? Oh sure guys, don't be strangers..."

Twi choked back a sob as we left. "I'm sorry..."

Her inability to figure this out was getting to her I could tell and so could Star, she was getting teary eyed too but that was a blessing of sorts she nuzzled her calming both of them down she knew she had to be strong not just for her friends but her daughter too.

"So what’s next love?"

"Research, I... We need more information, answers!"

I chuckled as we walked. "I'll help all I can but you’re the one I'll be betting on."

"Don't say that! This is all my fault, I'm not sure I even can..."

"Shh... You can and you will, I know it and deep inside so do they there’s no one else they'd trust more..."

"I don't deserve their trust or friendship..."

I scooped her up levitating Star between us laying against her chest between us. "Enough of that..." I kissed her passionately. "A mistake, we've all made them and we'll all make them again don't you think for even a second they won't forgive you."

She blushed slightly nuzzling against me then Star. "Always my rock..." She smiled.

"And you my lodestone love, always pulling me in the right direction."

"You..." She drew a deep breath letting it out in a smooth motion. "Okay let's go, so much to do!"

I let her down and we started running / galloping back to town Star squealing as I held her up.

"Fazer daddy! Fazer! Weee!"

We got home quickly reassuring every pony we met that everything was ok and to be careful. Once we got home everything exploded into a whirlwind of book after book none of which offered any solution, still we searched, well I left most of the research to Twi she was far better at it then I, I snagged the occasional book I thought looked promising and tried to think of some connection, some reason for this turn of events. Starswirl the Bearded was a good pony from all I had heard and read he wouldn't have made or left a spell like this on purpose would he? While I thought I kept Star entertained building a small book fort for her and playing make believe.

Hour by hour passed by and Twilights impatience and frustration was clear by the number of books tossed aside all around the room, Star was napping in her book castle as we continued to check through book after book still finding nothing. Plenty on cutie marks and their place in Equestrian society but nothing on switching them or forced personality changes... At least not in any book we possessed, it's quite possible the archives in Canterlot might have something possibly even written by Starswirl the Bearded himself from when he created and likely even cast this very spell... Wait a minute...

It's a test!

What?

The book, the spell... Heck Princess Celestia was there when he made it probably.

But why would she...?

A test, she knew the spell wouldn't harm anyone...

But why them? Because we're so close...? Bonded through the Elements of Harmony... That must be it! Maybe it hasn't harmed them but it's still disrupting their lives! The lives of everyone in town! She... No... I've still got a lot to answer for...

Twi... You’re probably right about the Elements though... Wait a minute, you know what?!

What?

I think... Just stick with me here, I think what’s happening here is by design.

How can it...?

Well if it was made to target the Element bearers... Heh... I chuckled a moment thinking. Luna and Celestia...

What about them?

They were the Element bearers before... What if when he made this spell... They changed marks?!

That... That would be something to see... She giggled, it was good to see her smile. I leaned over and kissed her softly.

Very funny, but a learning experience too what would be the term... Walk a mile in another’s horseshoes?

Maybe...

I think once this is over they'll have a much better understanding and appreciation for one another and exactly what they go through each and every day.

But I...

And you'll have an even better understanding of your friends the ties that bind you, magic and ways of countering magic...

I don't though! I'm no closer than when we started!

Twi I...

"Daddy...? Mommy...?" A still sleepy little Star stumbled out of her book fort blinking.

"Did we wake you baby? I'm sorry..." I scooped her up in my arms holding her between us both of us glad for this brief respite.

"What was auntie Pinky an auntie Flutterhy an auntie Abblejak an auntie Dach an auntie Rarery doing? Dey were diffant..."

"We know baby..." Twi comforted nuzzling her. "It's not their fault, they can't help themselves."

"Why?"

"They just lost themselves for a bit baby..." I explained rubbing her chest softly.

She went quiet mulling over what we said you could almost see the wheels turning in her little head, we were about to resume our conversation when she blinked and looked up at us. "Well... Why can't dey remembers?"

Twilight sighed and smiled. "It's complicated baby you see... Remember...? Memory...!?" She jumped to her hooves a big smile on her face.

"What is it love?"

She leaned down giving Star and I both a big kiss. "My daughters a genius!" Books began to float restacking and arranging themselves several orbiting around her.

"I don't understand..."

"Memory! I saw a spell while I was searching that lets you relive old memories, if they see how things were... How their supposed to be!"

"I get it, and that should break the spell?"

"I think so... I'm not a hundred percent sure but it's the only plan I have..."

"Then let’s do it..." I glanced up at the clock nearly six, I was momentarily concerned that we hadn't seen Scootaloo but remembered she would still be at Pearl and Magnums today. Pearl while a very sweet pony was also a teacher for teenaged ponies and she and Magnum had come up with the idea for Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom and Scootaloo to all come over there after school twice a week for some additional study as a part of their punishment naturally Pearl wouldn't let them go without dinner as well.

Twi and I both memorized the spell it was quite simple just a way to relive past days I wasn't sure it would be strong enough to break whatever spell had a hold of them... I shook my head as we gathered up Star and a few things Twilight retrieving the Elements of Harmony from where we had them concealed their magic and the girl’s connection to them and each other would probably be needed.

"So who first?" I asked as we headed into town.

"I'm not sure... Oh..." Fluttershy was still at the fountain but no crowd any pony that walked by simply looked at her and turned away as she sat and cried, we rushed up holding her between us with Star hugging her from the front.

She jumped slightly surprised. "Oh! H... Hi..."

"Come with us Shy..."

"But... I have to..."

"They'll still be here when you get back." Twilight assured.

"Auntie!"

"Well... Ok..."

We quickly hustled her to her cottage the chaos within didn't seem to be any better and now Dash was tied up in a giant iron caldron! Where did they even...?

Twilight nudged Fluttershy through the door and everything went quiet all the critters stopped and stared at her. "Oh my..." The moment was broken and they all rushed up to her chirping, squeaking and pawing. She jumped slightly but to my surprise didn't back away an inch, she smiled and cooed moving from group to group of animals making sure they had the proper food, not fighting cleaning up as she went not surprisingly like she knew where everything belonged. Suddenly she stopped looking around confused. "It's... It's all so familiar..."

Twilight stepped forward her horn glowing softly. "It is Fluttershy..." The glow surrounded her as Twi levitated her Element to her fastening it around her neck her eyes went wide as she floated into the air a minute passed and she landed her head hung low and with a sudden shimmering the mark on her flank shifted from Pinkies three balloons back to her butterfly’s.

"What... What happened?"

"Oh Fluttershy! Thank Celestia it worked! I'm so sorry!"

"I don't..."

"Ahem... Still trapped inside here..."

I untied Dash noticing she still retained Fluttershy's mark on her as well. "We need your help Dash."

"My help...? But I..."

Fluttershy sidled up to her putting a wing over her. "Come on..."

(Song)

Success...

Twilight sighed laying down beside me face to face on our bed it was still early afternoon the day after the excitement, Star was having a playdate at the Cakes and Scootaloo was still at school. The cleanup had been quite minor a bit around the farm and from Rarity’s 'efforts', the biggest problem had been from Pinkies absence. Somehow without her around ponies got more and more unhappy until they nearly came to blows, I wasn't sure if it was all due to Pinkies... Well... Pinkieness, or some sort of effect from the spell, once she'd returned things began to get back to normal pretty quickly but some hard feelings remained, things were pretty quiet now. There was one thing left to fix though and it wouldn't be easy...

I caressed up her neck gently to her soft ear fondling it and kissing her. "It wasn't your fault..."

Her eyes shot open giving me an accusing look. "You know that’s not true! I messed up so bad! I could have ruined everything...!"

"Maybe... I really don't think so love and you didn't, you did what you always do, came up with a plan and made things right."

"From MY mistake! I'm usually fixing other problems..." She whispered sadly making my heart ache. "They'll never forgive me..."

"What? No one is mad at you, it could have happened to anyone..." And the girls hadn't said an angry word about what had happened, they said it had been much like a waking dream. They could watch what was happening but not affect it much or at all.

"You know that’s not true either..."

I smiled and kissed her again. "You know I'll stand by you no matter what love, always."

That at least got me a small smile. "I know, thank you... But their still recovering... When they realize... I almost changed their basic nature! What if we hadn’t been able to reverse it?! What if..."

I stopped her with a passionate kiss. "You didn't know, what if the spell had been hugely beneficial? Made everyone’s lives better in every way? Bad? Good? It's all up to us love, all of us. Me, our friends, the Princess’s..."

"It's not the Princess’s fault! I... I should have been more careful..."

"We all have a little blame, I don't want you doubting yourself. You’re still you, the most beautiful, talented, loving perfect mare, mother, friend and wife... Don't you ever change."

"Rick..." She blushed slightly pressing forward to kiss me softly. "You always make me feel better, how do you do that?"

"Love. I love you and I'll do anything for you, anything to make you feel better, anything to make you smile."

"I love you, thank you..."

"You know, now that I've thought about it a little more everyone’s thoughts and desires may have driven that spell..."

"What do you mean?"

"Well, let's think... Rarity the fashionista as a weather pony? Not likely, but her friend Rainbow Dash, two very different ponies but I think maybe she's always wondered what it might be like to be her? Perhaps even a bit envious of her..."

"Oh! I see... And Fluttershy, a sweet pony but so shy it's almost painful and Pinkie Pie friends with everyone and afraid of nothing!"

"And along those lines that same Pinkie lived on a farm so long ago but leads a very different life now, perhaps she was yearning for the old days...?"

"That makes sense, and Applejack as a seamstress?! Crazy but... That doesn't mean she couldn't be curious about what a life like that could be..."

"And Dash, she and Fluttershy have been friends for so long and their so different how could she not be curious how a life so much unlike hers could be."

"Do you really think that could be it?"

"Part of it I'm sure."

We pressed forward to kiss again lingering for a moment. "You know... We do have the house to ourselves..." She whispered with a sly grin.

"Mmm... You read my mind love..."

Afterwards we lay together spent and satisfied the book levitated above us as she flipped idly through the pages.

"This is pointless..." She sighed levitating the book over the trashcan letting it go but suddenly seizing it again before it landed. "Wait..."

"What?"

She rotated the book slowly above us until it was upside down, still made no sense to me but looking over to her a look of wonder spread across Twilights face. "You were right, the spell wasn't meant to be harmful and it only would have lasted twenty four hours if we hadn’t reversed it... The true spell is intoned here too intertwined and reversed with the other, he had the knowledge and wisdom to create it but he didn't have the strength... He left this hoping someone someday would be able to complete his legacy... Has Princess Celestia been searching all this time...?"

"For you..."

"I... I don't know... Last time..."

"Twi... Don't be afraid, I'm with you. This may truly be your destiny, and I'll be here with you."

"Okay... Here goes..."

Her horn began to glow and across the library her crown too echoed that glow growing brighter and brighter a beam of purple light spearing from it to her simultaneously yellow, pink, white, orange and rainbow colored beams converged on her from afar passing through the walls leaving no trace.

"Rick..."

"I'm here love..."

She seemed to relax as the power flowed lifting her up into the air the light enveloping her growing so bright I had to shield my eyes, when it faded I blinked to clear my vision and she was gone! It didn't feel like a normal teleport, I was worried but something else was happening... Pulling me, coaxing me subtly towards the door, I resisted at first but I could feel it was somehow connected to her so I threw on clothes quickly and let it guide me out of our home and towards the center of town and I wasn't alone ponies from every house joined me most of them looking as confused as I was but drawn on none the less...

I reassured them as we walked and tried to reassure myself as well as we all gathered and I located the Cakes with their two foals and Star making my way over to them.

"What's going on?" Mr. Cake asked wide eyed.

"I'm not sure but don't worry it's... It's..."

"Something Important..." Mrs. Cake breathed smiling.

"Mommy?" Star looked up at me.

I scooped her up holding her close. "Something to do with mommy yes... It'll be ok baby."

She nuzzled against me as we looked around, it looked like every pony in Ponyville was here a few stragglers arriving from outlying farms including Applejack, Big Mac, Inkie and even Granny Smith. I caught a glimpse of Pinkie dashing around excitedly chatting it up with anyone she could. Rarity and Fluttershy standing together looking like their spa day together had been interrupted, surprisingly even Dash was there but I supposed a flight from the academy to here wouldn't take long for her... I didn't see Angel, Sweetie Belle or Apple Bloom but I was sure they were together here somewhere, we were all here...

But for what? Why were we all gathered here...? A few more minutes of tense waiting and our thousand questions were answered, with a flash Princess Celestia stood there her wings spread wide a proud smile on her face. She stepped aside and with another flash I caught the barest of glimpses of purple as ponies crowded all around...

All of a sudden I felt a stabbing pain in my chest my legs almost immediately buckled and I fell to my knees barely managing to hold onto Star.

"Daddy...?"

I couldn't answer her barely able to draw a breath, I'd felt pain like this before and at the time I was willing to accept it but not now, I fought it, fought it with everything I had but my heart still slowed with each beat.

Twi...? Nothing.

I fell back my vision fading with Stars terrified face looking down at me as she nudged me.

"Baby..." I gasped.

Everything went black the last thing I heard was my baby’s anguished cry.

"DADDY!!!"

Epilogue

View Online

Guards clear the room! Twilight! What’s happened? What...

Princess! Please... I... I don't know what happened...

I... His heart is shutting down, the ascension spell has split the two of you...

Cancel it! Take it back please Princess!

I cannot... The spell is of your making Twilight Sparkle, it cannot be undone...

No! I won't let him die!

Twilight please your expending too much magic it's not safe...

I won't give up!

Calm down please...

No! I won't calm down! I won't stop! He wouldn't...

This isn't helping...

Get away from me! Just leave us alone...

I... I'll get the doctors... I'm sorry...

I'm sorry...

Song

Darkness...

Nothingness...

Emptiness...

There was nothing, I could see nothing, smell nothing, feel nothing... But I could hear... Something... Faint and indistinct but something... I searched and searched for the source of the sound moving excruciatingly slowly through the darkness. Was I crawling? Walking? Floating? Trotting? I couldn't tell, didn't matter. Only the sound...

Time was a foreign concept, days, weeks, months, years...? Far in the distance I finally saw something, a faint glow, an infinitesimal pinprick of light...

Another eternity and I finally came upon it, it was faint, barely distinguishable from the darkness surrounding it a strange symbol that looked like this. It glowed very lightly purple, I had no idea what it was...

But it felt important... Important to me...? Me... Who am I? What am I? Where...? I had no idea. The symbol pulsed lightly, a strange thrumming sound like a crystal bowl tapped gently...

So I stayed there. I had nowhere else to go, and here I could see something though nothing of what I might be, and hear the clear and pure sound though I did not understand it...

And I began to... Feel. Something, a warmth... Comforting but faint and tinged with something... Grief... Sadness... Despair... Mine...? Or someone else...

I waited... Sometimes the symbol would dim even further and others it would brighten slightly the sound as well grew and shrank but the warmth stayed the same...

Something... Someone? Was trying... Searching... For me? Or something else here?

I tried to remember... To think... But there was nothing. At the lights brightest I almost... But then it was gone.

Time and again, hundreds, thousands...

Then suddenly a different sound... A crack! Deafeningly loud in the silence and suddenly the symbol grew brighter and brighter pushing back the darkness reveling... Me? Hands, arms, legs, feet, torso... A human form?! That’s what I was! What I am!

Rick... Dad... Daddy... Daddy! Star! Twilight! Scootaloo!

I remembered as the light pulsed once more blindingly pulling me into it... Pulling me back...

I slowly opened my eyes, above me was a plain white roof. I couldn't look to either side nor move my neck or any other part of me holding my eyes open was a chore in itself... I could breathe but only barely like trying to draw a breath through a straw.

I could feel though, pinpricks of pain all throughout my body as if I hadn't moved for ages a cool fabric covering me and a warm spot on my chest...

I could feel my heart struggling to beat as if it too had been stalled for some time... Atop me I felt a twitch and a gasp as whatever it was moved around slightly for a moment then suddenly it was gone.

I realized now I could hear as well as I could hear little hoof beats galloping a short ways away from me and a hushed whisper...

"Mommy...?" Star!

Followed by a quiet grunt.

"Mommy... Mommy! I heard it! I did for real this time!"

"Star..." Twilight! "How long was I out...?"

"Not long... But I heard it Mommy! Daddy’s heart beat!"

Twilight sighed wearily as I tried in vain to move, to say something, anything! "Baby... I know you want to hear it... I want to hear it...! But every time... I'm trying, I'm trying so hard..." I heard her voice crack and it broke my heart hearing the anguish in her voice. "I've got to set up again Baby... Try something else... I... I..."

"I know Mommy... Daddy wouldn't give up either..."

I heard Twilight sob and the two of them embrace as I continued to try to do... Something! I could breathe slightly easier and even managed to blink once or twice...

"Okay Baby, I'll check but don't get your hopes too high ok?"

"Okay Mommy... Mommy...?"

Twilights hoof clicks towards me ceased. "What?"

"Your wings...?"

"My...?"

I heard a shuffling of hooves then a sudden clatter and warmth and pressure on my chest for a few moments then suddenly my vision was dominated by her face. She looked worn and tried bags under her eyes and those beautiful eyes slightly bloodshot but it was still the most beautiful thing I had ever seen.

"Rick?! Rick!!!"

I blinked in response as it was all I could do. She stared at me a moment then collapsed on top of me crushing her mouth against mine kissing me hard and passionately.

"I... I was so..."

"Mommy...?"

"Come here Baby... You were right..." A moment later my sweet little baby’s face hovered over mine with a little smile. She looked bigger but I suppose it could just be the position I was in. She too looked tired and as if she had been doing a lot of crying, I wanted so badly to grab her and hold her, hold them both and Scootaloo too but I had to settle for blinking at her several times.

"Daddy!" She squealed hugging me tightly.

They both laid against me for a moment sobbing then Twilight cleared her throat,

"Gallop and get your sister Star, and the doctors and... And, anyone!"

"Okay!" She nuzzled against me a moment. "Love you Daddy!" And then she was off.

Twilight looked down at me a moment then shook her head levitating over a glass and straw. "You'll need lots of water but slowly... It’s been so long..."

She inserted the straw between my lips but I couldn't manage to draw any water through it so she took it between her own sucking up a straw full and then releasing it slowly and carefully between my lips. The cool liquid washed over my mouth and throat with each straw full I felt just that tiniest bit better. Finally I was able to draw a full breath of air and croaked out.

"What... Happened?"

Her eyes turned overcast and she turned her face away from me for a moment, turning back her eyes were filled with tears. "The spell... The ascension spell... The Princesses should have never...! No..." She leaned down and kissed me softly lying beside me and turning my head gently so I could see her. "I shouldn't have tried it without further study... Without knowing what it would do!!!"

I still didn't quite understand but I guessed the spell had backfired somehow affecting me maybe... I was glad it hadn't been her. I managed to slowly and painfully bring my arm around to caress and rest against the side of her face.

"But you’re ok?"

Her eyes flew open and she cried harder pressing herself against me as I held her as well as I could. "You don't understand! The spell... Worked."

"The spell... I remember you had just figured out the spell and disappeared... I was worried but something drew us all to the middle of town and before too long you reappeared with Princess Celestia... Something was different but before I could get a closer look there was a pain in my chest and... Everything just went black... Then there was nothing for a long, long time it felt like then I woke up here..."

She sniffed looking up at me the pain and anguish in her eyes clear. "You died... I killed you!"

"I... Died?"

"The spell... It was more powerful than the one binding us...! It superseded it! Broke it! It’s all my fault!"

She buried her head in my chest sobbing as I gently stroked her mane thinking a moment, remembering... "It didn't break it love, nothing can break it... Nothing can take me from you." I whispered in her ear.

"But..."

I stopped her with a soft kiss. "I remember now, even in the darkness... There was something... I could see it, hear it, feel the warmth against me..."

"You were in suspended animation! You shouldn't have been able to...!"

You know I would die for you love, a hundred, a thousand, a million times over! No more blame.

Rick...

She lay atop me as I gently stroked her mane and fondled her soft ears running my hands over her as we kissed softly and stared into each other’s eyes. Her heart was hammering a mile a minute as mine slowly was getting back into pace. That worried me but as she calmed down and I got stronger our hearts seemed to sync up again and I hoped for as long as I lived beating as one.

"That’s better." I sighed.

She smiled softly and snuggled against me. "I was so scared. Star screamed and suddenly I realized I couldn't feel you! I ran over but there was nothing I could do! I... I panicked grabbing you and everypony nearby teleporting us all to the Canterlot hospital! Normally I would never have been able to teleport so many even a fraction of that distance... But as an Alicorn..."

It clicked in my mind finally, ascension to Alicornhood... Practical godhood... I reached back feeling for her wings but only found two mats of fur that stood out a bit on her back easily soothed back down.

"Their gone now... I've tried so hard to get rid of them... Of it! This curse!"

"Twi! You gave up...? Immortality? For me?"

She smiled softly blushing a bit. "Even the Princesses don't live forever. I didn't want it! I don't need it! I don't care if we live only a year, as long as we're together..."

"You know all I want is for you to be happy love... All you could have done, accomplished...!"

She stopped me pressing her forehoof to my lips. "I could have what? And what about what I want? What good is an immortal life, or close to it if you’re not with me? What would you have done?"

"I wouldn't have rested a second until you were back by my side or I joined you in the hereafter." I answered without hesitation. "I love you so much Twilight, thank you."

"I love you!"

We kissed again and again not able to get enough of one another as we held each other close. I was beginning to feel much better as the pins and needles subsided and I could move my stiff joints and muscles more though I was still so weak.

"Is everyone here then?" I asked looking over towards the slightly ajar door expecting ponies to flood in at any time. "Scootaloo, the girls? What did you do?"

"Everyone was here... At first. But as time passed and I failed again and again... I got... Angry... At the Princesses, at my friends, at you... But especially at myself..."

"How long...?"

"Almost four months..."

Four months! No wonder Star looked bigger... Four months I missed out on with her... Four months she wasted here watching over me...! Despite everything else that bothered me more than anything.

"I tried to cancel the spell, to reassert the one that was on us! Anything and everything I could think of! The Princesses... They wanted to help... They both cast the spell of stasis on you... They tried to help but they didn't want to make things worse... I wanted you back right then! I... I may have drove them away..."

"I'm sure they understand."

"I hope so..." She smiled laughing lightly. "And Star... We couldn't keep her away, literally. Even if I carried her out of the room to try to get her some rest and food she would run back or teleport away from us! I was shocked, and worried she might hurt herself! So she’s been here all this time, laying on you mostly... She wouldn't give up, wouldn't let me... Scootaloo too but her I insisted she sleep at my parents... I didn't want them both here if... Something happened..."

"They’re both such stubborn fillies... Take after their mother."

"And their father..." She teased right back. "I tried and failed so many times I was beginning to lose hope... I didn't want to go on without you, but I didn't want to trap our daughters down here with me while I..."

I squeezed her tightly as she let out another sob. "I'm so sorry love, sorry you had to make that decision at all."

She sighed softly turning to kiss me again. "Alizarin has been bringing me books pretty much at random from the archives to help in any way he could..." Looking around the room now that I could I saw hundreds if not thousands of books strewn around the room. "Last night he brought me a very old one that showed a formula for transference of magic rather than cancelling or destroying it..."

"So what did you...?"

"There was only one pony that popped into my mind when I..."

She was interrupted suddenly as we could hear frantic galloping out in the hall and the door burst open.

"Twily! What did you do?!"

Shining Armor stood in the doorway panting, he too looked a bit bigger then I remembered and suddenly a pair of large white wings unfurled from his back flapping once lifting him slightly off the ground before he got them back under control and tucked back.

Twi gasped her eyes going wide. "It... It worked... Surprise..." She smiled sheepishly.

"Armor?"

"Rick?! Your awake thank Celestia!" He moved over to us still trying to awkwardly control his new wings. "Twilight?"

"I'm sorry! It was just another in a long line of things I'd tried! I didn't even know if it would work..."

"But why me? I'm not mad Twily, I'm confused..."

She sighed closing her eyes as I caressed her mane and neck. "Last night after you tried to convince me to get some rest again we had a long conversation, we'd had a similar one a long time ago when you tried to explain death to me after our cat died remember?"

"I remember..." He nodded.

"I didn't want to accept it then and even less last night, every point you brought up was valid I couldn't refute a single argument you made but my mind... My heart wouldn't give up, couldn't give up... Not yet, not until I had tried everything! So when I found the spell there..." She gestured to a nearby tome. "It was ancient magic strong but simple it explained the spell Transference... Magic moved from one thing to another but only one of the same thing and only once, pony to pony, inanimate object to another object and so on..."

"But you were an Alicorn not a pony..."

"I wasn't born one though, I was... I am still a pony inside, you were foremost... Well second most maybe in my mind as I intoned the spell... I didn't know what would happen really! I hoped... I had expended so much energy I was afraid, afraid to stop, afraid to go on but something... Clicked..."

"I was writing a letter to Cadence when out of nowhere I was surrounded by a corona of energy penetrating every part of me. I felt strong! My magic seemed to increase a hundredfold! But pain too as my body changed growing larger and these of course..." He unfurled his wings flapping a few times cautiously creating a breeze before tucking them back with a bit of difficulty and a small smile. "They’re going to take some getting used to..."

"You’re not mad at me?"

Armor pulled her into a tight hug. "Mad? You've given me a gift sis, Cadence and I... Well she's going to be very surprised... And you saved Rick, what’s to be mad about?"

"I do appreciate it..." I chuckled just then we heard a commotion in the hall galloping hooves and my little Angel and Star came bursting through the door followed by at least a dozen ponies who looked like doctors, nurses and maybe even a few medical students.

"Dad!"

"Daddy!"

Scootaloo scooped up her sister both of them flying across the room onto the bed and my embrace, I hugged them both as tightly as I could kissing them both again and again.

"I'm so glad you’re ok dad... I... I was so scared!" She tried to put on a brave face but she couldn't hold back the tears Star crying along with her as they clung to me.

"I'm so sorry girls... I never want to leave you, I'll fight my way back no matter what... You." I kissed Scootaloo. "You..." Same for Star. "And you..." Twilight. "Your all I need in this world, you’re my everything and I'm not giving that up..." I whispered.

"Daddy..." Star cried as I rubbed her chest gently her little hooves holding me so tight.

"Excuses me Sir Sparkle?"

The doctors still waited patiently the others I hadn’t noticed leave.

"Yes?"

"May we examine you? We hate to interrupt but... Honestly none of us expected you to ever recover! No offence." He added embarrassed.

I chuckled shifting Twilight and the girls slightly. "I understand, feel free I'm eager to recover. Try to make up for some lost time..." I squeezed all three of my girls as the doctor’s horns lit up scanning poking and prodding making notes on my reactions and my answers to their questions.

It took a good twenty minutes or so but finally they were done, they conferred amongst themselves before turning back to us. "Amazing, when first we examined you your heart had all but stopped your other organs following suit we couldn't imagine what was keeping you alive... That was when the Princesses put you in suspended animation slowing what little metabolism you had left to nearly nothing, just a temporary delay of the inevitable we thought but now... Well, I've never been more glad to be proven wrong, we have no idea how but your fine! Your organs are all working fine, even better than before! Granted we only saw them briefly and you still have to recover from long term stasis... Even now your whole system is resetting itself, your muscles will have suffered the most... But as I said everything looks extremely promising, we've taken enough of your time for now we’ll leave you to rest. Congratulations Sir Sparkle it's good to have you back."

"Thanks..." I didn't recognize any of the doctors though I had likely met them before long ago but apparently they recognized me, nevertheless I was glad to be given a somewhat clean bill of health. I relaxed back in bed even that short time of sitting up made my muscles ache and my head spin a bit. "I think I'm ready for a nap..." I murmured Twilight and Scootaloo laying on either side of me heads resting on my chest Star between them.

"I think we all could..." Twilight whispered looking up to kiss me softly levitating a sheet over us.

"I really have a letter to write to Cadence now, rest up and I'll see you all tomorrow." Armor smiled teleporting away.

We all cuddled close together warming each other I had no idea what time of day it was but the strain, stress and long sleepless nights were clear to see on each of their faces I watched them as they each fell asleep, I had made things tough for them. But tonight at least we all could sleep soundly...

Together...

The Second Year; Gravidity

by TwilightsmyMare

Chapter 1 (Dark Crystal)

Chapter 2 (The Empire)

Interlude: A dream built for two.

Chapter 3 (What’s faire in the Crystal Empire?)

Interlude: Even Angels get the sniffles.

Chapter 4 (The farmer, the butterfly and the rainbow)

Chapter 5 (Pink? Ya, we got that)

Interlude: The temptation of Mares.

Chapter 6 (Explanations and reasoning)

Chapter 7 (There are no Bad Seeds)

Interlude: The Moon can't decide...

Chapter 8 (Slave to a mare)

Interlude: The Date.

Chapter 9 (Sisterhood)

Interlude: Baby steps.

Chapter 10 (I wonder, wonder, wonder who...)

Interlude: A day like any other...

Chapter 11 (While the Apples are away...)

Interlude: Dreams and Desires...

Chapter 12 (The return we totally missed.)

Interlude: Dreamscapes and Revelations.

Chapter 13 (Ever wonder what they were thinking? Part one)

Interlude: Seeking a Love at the Beginning and End of the World.

Chapter 14 (On a wing and a rail. Part two)

Interlude: Whats a Princess to do?

Chapter 15 (Home again, home again…)

Interlude: When Humans Meet.

Chapter 16 (What was left behind. Part 1)

Interlude: Placeholder

Chapter 17 (What was left behind. Part 2)

Epilogue