> The Summerbug Factor
>  by Natsumushi
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Chapter 1 - Chasing Rainbows and making new friends
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	
“Hey Egghead! You ready for some real flying lessons!” The cyan pegasus yelled through the window of the local Library; a giant, hollow and magically reshaped tree. The Library also happened to be the home of a lavender unicorn with wings.

Groggily, the alicorn mare looked up from her desk to see the time.

“Rainbow Dash…It’s only 5 a.m.” she yawned. “Why are you up so early?”

“Like I said after you turned into an alicorn, it’d be great to have another flying buddy, and I’m totally syked! I’ll show you all the best moves and the coolest views!” Rainbow Dash boasted with a chortle.

“But it’s early and I’ve been up all night reading up on how these things work.” she said as she unfurled her wings and clumsily flapped them to emphasize her point. “And Princess Celestia was also kind enough to send me some reference books from the Wonderbolt Academy.” She yawned.

“Ugh, really Twi`? Not everything is in books; you gotta just get out and do it! That’s how I learned, but then again I have a natural knack for this kind of thing.”

“Well duh, you’re a pegasus.” Twilight groaned in frustration, possibly also due to lack of sleep.

“Somepony woke up on the wrong side of the bed, sheesh…” Rainbow Dash grumbled.

“Look, Rainbow, just let me get more sleep. Besides, don’t you have work to do?”

“Nah, I already cleared the skies, it’s perfect flying weather.” She grinned, which soon became a scowl as she noticed her soon to be student continue to lay motionless in bed without making any effort to get up.

Stamping a hoof against the oak floor in frustration, she sighed muttering, “Whatever.” as she turned around to fly out the treehouse from the window in Twilight’s room. She just couldn't understand why her friend wasn't more excited.  After all, what could be better than the feel of wind rushing through your feathers as you watched the world below crawl on by from the skies? Nothing in all of Equestria that could compare to that!  Well, nothing in some dusty old textbook at least.

Shooting a glance back towards the bed, though, Rainbow Dash saw that Twilight had already settled peacefully beneath her sheets again, and it was clear even to her that her friend wasn't moving anytime soon.  She let out a sigh; her brow furrowed as the pile of blankets in front of her rose and fell with a steady rhythm, before begrudgingly walking back over to Twilight's bedroom window.  After looking back over her shoulder one final time, she limply flapped her wings and took to the air.   It seemed it would be a little while longer before she had her "new flying buddy" after all.  But maybe today, after Twilight had gotten all the sleep she needed and her morning dose of coffee, she'd might actually show some enthusiasm, rather than finding some other excuse to avoid flying practice, or "royal business" that had to be done.  

At this point, though, that sure didn't seem very likely to Rainbow Dash. 

Ah man! How long is she gonna put this off? First the alicorn thing and then the Sunset Shimmer incident, for buck’s sake come on!

Rainbow dash fumed. For years she wanted someone who she could fly with that wouldn’t be too afraid to go higher than a tree and now she finally can fly with one of her best friends. But every time she approached Twilight about doing something fun in the sky, something always stopped it. It was so aggravating! Rainbow Dash knew that Twilight Sparkle was now a princess and had important, royal things to do, but she couldn’t help but feel blown off by her. Even Princess Celestia seemed to find time to come to Ponyville and occasionally mess around with somepony in the form of a harmless prank or two.

As she blazed through the skies trying to make the best of waking up early, she happened to notice somepony lying in a field near the Everfree forest. Who the hay is that? I’ve never seen that pony before. She thought.

Her curiosity got the better of her and she dove down to get a better look at the newcomer. He was a colt with a sky blue coat with a white underbelly. His mane was as black as night, and she could barely contain herself when she noticed his wings! A pegasus! Lying in the middle of a field. Why not lounge on a cloud? She thought. Cautiously, she inched closer.

“Hey there, you new to Ponyville?” she asked.

A few moments of silenced passed, then finally the colt turned his head to the cyan mare. He looked her over quick and finally said “Hey...”

“Are you alright?” she asked. The breeze picked up and tousled her rainbow mane. Something about this pegasus seemed to draw her in, as if he were somehow familiar…

“Yeah, I just like to watch the sun rise from the ground sometimes; it’s a change from seeing it rise from the sky. It’s a little enchanting actually. Why do you ask?” he inquired.

“I just never saw you before. Are you new to Ponyville?”

He paused for a moment, shifting uneasily.

“You could say that. Does it matter? I’m not I trespassing am I?” he started, a little annoyed.

“No, I just was trying to be nice. What’s your deal?” she retorted, her words laced with the frustration from earlier rising again. He’s kind of a jerk…

“Look, I just want to be alone, ‘kay? I don’t need a nagging mare pestering me.”

“What was that!? Do you even know who I am!” she roared

“Should I?” he mused.

“You outta! I’m Rainbow Dash! The coolest flyer in all of Equestria! And I’m a freakin` hero!”

As she stared him down ready with another retort should he lash out at her with his words again. But instead of the reaction she expected, he did the opposite and just sighed as he went back to his star gazing.

“What? Got nothing to say now? Where’s that attitude I just saw punk!”

Under most circumstances she would normally just leave, but something strange kept her from leaving and it really began to irk her. As she started to force herself away, he spoke up.

“You still here Dash? Tell you what, why don’t you just watch the sunrise with me? It’s about to start.”

Is he messing with me? This guy’s really starting to confuse the crap outta me! Wait a second… She began to think really hard, and realized that he was doing the same exact sort of thing that she’d do if something was bothering her. She couldn’t count the times she told her friends to let her alone, even though she truly, deep down wanted somepony with her to talk to.

“Uh…sure…I guess…” she said, and trotted over next to the cocky pegasus and plopped down beside him. Why the hay am I doing this? And why do I feel like I know him? She situated herself, the sun began to rise, and since she had gotten up early to clear the skies the spectacle was just as enchanting as the sky blue colt had said. Slowly it rose up from the tree line and bathed the Everfree Forest and Ponyville in a golden light that seemed to bleed across the horizon. It took her breath away.

“What’d I tell ya? Beautiful, isn’t it?” He asked; his tone vastly calmer than earlier.

"Uh, yeah. Pretty cool, I guess.” she said, barely able to contain her awe form the radiant sunrise bathing the morning in bright amber, as she was too focused on clearing clouds to ever bother looking at the dawn of day. She turned to him, “So what’s up, you tell me to scram, then invite me to watch the sunrise with you? What’re you playing at?” she asked, eyeing him suspiciously.

“I’ve just been having a bad run of luck as of late: personal stuff.” He lamented.

“Okay, so we both got off on the wrong hoof. Let’s try this again. I’m Rainbow Dash, who are you?”

Gingerly he humored the cyan mare. “I’m Summerbug. I guess…” he paused, apparently rethinking whatever it was he was about to say.”…Nice to make your acquaintance. Sorry about earlier. One tends to get testy when nothing seems to go right.” He added ruefully.

“Yeah, I know how that goes. You go ahead and plan an awesome day and by some random stroke of fate, I all gets changed and messed up! I guess I owe you an apology too… I’ve just been so frustrated!”

His curiosity peaked; Summerbug turned his head to look at Rainbow Dash.

“Wanna talk about it?” he asked.

“Not really.” She growled.

“It might make you feel better.” Summerbug responded

“And why should I share something personal like that with you? No offense, but we just meet. I’m sure deep down you’re a nice guy, but seriously, it’s kinda creepy.”

After a long pause he gazed at her with a half-lidded stare, and blinked once.

“That’s not helping your case.” Rainbow dash pointed out, mimicking his stare. Summerbug blinked and smacked his lips before replying, “I represent that remark.”

“Ya-wait, what?” Rainbow Dash sputtered as she caught his odd response, “Don’t you mean ‘resent’?”

“Nope.” Soon a mischievous smirk began to spread across his face.

“You’re messing with me, right?” she deadpanned.

“Yep.”

Rainbow Dash sighed, “You…are, really weird. But I guess talking about it could help. Now, I don’t know why I’m telling you this, but my pal, Twilight…ahem, excuse me…Princess Twilight, has been so busy with her new job that she rarely has any time for her best friends! It’s almost like she’s totally blowing me off! Well, me and the others…” she corrected. Whoa, too much information Dash! He’s a random guy, why the hay would he give two bits?

“Sorry to hear that, I kind of know how you feel though. Years ago I struggled to get a very lovely, and might I add hot, mare to get to notice me. I would do all kinds of crazy and outlandish things to get her attention. Now I know it isn’t quite the same thing, but it’s the same general principle if you ask me. But on the flip-side of the bit, don’t you think you’re being a little bit petty? I mean, If she’s a princess, you should expect her to be busy with all kinds of royal crap. Not that’s it’s really all that fair.”

“I-I guess you’re right.” She conceded.

“So, if I may ask, don’t you have any other pegasi friends?”

“I do, but, you see, Twilight is more daring than Fluttershy.  You see, when Twilight got her wings-”

“Wait? What do you mean ‘got her wings’? That just sounds weird.” The colt asked.

“Oh! Sorry. You see, Twilight Sparkle just became an alicorn recently and I wanna help her get used to her new wings. And while I’m at it, get a new flying buddy. Win-win situation if you ask me, but like I said, stupid stuff just keeps happening out of nowhere and we never get a chance. And my oldest buddy Fluttershy is waaay too much of a scaredy pony to go any higher than a rooftop! As much as I love my friends, it really gets boring being the only extreme flyer in Ponyville. I need a challenge! I need excitement! I need…” she trailed off, suddenly feeling a sense of loneliness. I really am the only real extreme flyer in town…

“Hey Dash, you home?” Summerbug asked, snapping Rainbow Dash out of her stupor as he waved a hoof in front of her face.

“Oh, sorry about that, my mind wandered elsewhere for a moment,” She bluffed, “Nothing to worry about though!” She quickly added with a sigh. She then felt a hoof on her shoulder. She looked over to see her new acquaintance trying to comfort her.

“How about this Rainbow, until your buddy can get some free time, would you like to be my flying buddy? I don’t have any friends and well, let’s face it, I’m a pegasus as well. And I’m sure I can give you a good workout! I may not be the best flyer in all of Equestria, but I have a fair bit of stamina. And look, I know we just met, but…I guess what I’m trying to say is…do you wanna hang out?” he asked. She didn’t know what to say, it was certainly an odd change of events. One she started to feel she could get used to. But that name, Summerbug, where have I heard it before…?

“Uh, sure. How about we get some grub first though? I know this great place that makes awesome daisy and daffodil sandwiches. Sound good?”

“Sounds like a plan.” He agreed, and then added with a smug grin, “Race ya to town?”

“Oh yeah! It is on!” Rainbow agreed with her usual cocky grin. And the two raced off toward town, blowing away a patch of dandelion seeds in their wake.


***


“What’s the matter slacker? Getting tired out so soon?” Rainbow Dash called out to Summerbug over the roar of the wind in her ears.

“Not even close! I’m just warming up!” The sky blue colt called back, determination burning in hazel and amber eyes.

Dipping and diving, the two pegasus ponies raced toward Ponyville. Whenever Summerbug weaved, Rainbow Dash bobbed. The feeling was electric, this high speed race just what the doctor ordered, and Bug was right, he was giving Dash a good workout, and she loved every second of it! Not bad, but let’s see if you can keep up! Time for to kick it up a notch! And with that Rainbow Dash cranked up the speed, but Summerbug wouldn’t be so easily intimidated and pushed harder ever still. 

Onward the two raced, neck and neck until finally Ponyville came into view. They both took a brief second to give each other a glance that meant one thing: Now or never!

Unaware of the two pegasai racing toward them, Applejack and Fluttershy were on their way to Ponyville as well.

“Thanks’ a bunch fer helping me git some of these here apples ta town Fluttershy, but I hope ya know it wasn’t necessary.” The hearty earth pony stated. Normally she’d be too stubborn to accept help, but she was running late today and needed to set up shop yet. It was a blessing that she ran into Fluttershy on the way to Ponyville.

“Oh, it was no trouble at all Applejack. I was on my way to meet Rarity anyway for our usual spa day you know.” Fluttershy softly answered with a smile.

“Well, that’s mighty kind’a ya.” Applejack chuckled. “Say, have one o’ mah fritters! Mah treat!” and gave Fluttershy one of the delectable pastries. It was then that the two ponies were hit by powerful gust of wind that sent the two flying into town along with the other two racers. Fluttershy muttered a chain of unintelligible squeaks as she tumbled into town and landed on Applejack.

“Oooh yeah! What now Summerbug? I got you beat!” Rainbow Dash gloated as she came screeching to a halt in the town square, Summerbug close behind her.

“Wow! Best race I had in years! But next time I won’t make it so easy Rainbow!” he declared, panting and out of breath.

“Anytime, anywhere! Now how about…oh hey guys” Rainbow Dash said, just now noticing her two friends lying dazed in the middle of the street. “Sorry guys, let me help you up.” She offered.

“Eh, thanks Rainbow.” Applejack slurred, finally shaking her head to put her brain right as Rainbow Dash went over to help her up. Summerbug decided to help too and swooped over to help Fluttershy up. Before she realized who exactly was helping her up, she was on her hooves again.

“Sorry about that…eh,hehe…I guess Rainbow and I got carried away in the heat of the moment. Are you o-” 

As he looked into those charming azure eyes of the canary pegasus, time just seemed to have ceased. The air was still, and all that he could see was the most adorable and enchanting creature he had ever laid eyes upon. His heart skipped a beat as he was only able to stop and stare. Little did he know that he was making the timid mare very uneasy. She looked back at him and squeaked something that sounded like ‘I’m sorry.’

Finally he felt a hoof clop the back of his head, hard. “What do you think you are doing you ruffian!” exclaimed a mare’s voice from behind.

“Ouch! Watch it lady! I was just helping the canary up.” He retorted, looking behind him to see who the hay clobbered him, he was amazed to see a well groomed and refined white unicorn with a purple mane and tail. Wow, she’s kind of hot! For a unicorn that is.

“Hey, calm down Rare. It was an accident. He was just being a gentlecolt.” Rainbow stated.

“Please, he was glaring daggers at our poor little Fluttershy. Can’t you see how traumatized she is?” The white mare with a luxuriously styled, purple mane remarked. Behind her the cute yellow mare crouched in a defensive position.

“I was not ‘glaring daggers’! I was just stunned was all. I’ve never encountered such a delicate looking mare before.” Summerbug added bashfully.

“Oh, silly colt, flattery shall get you nowhere, but I suppose my charm is a bit much this early in the morning.” The white unicorn beamed.

“Uh, Rare, Ah think he was talking `bout Fluttershy.” Applejack interjected.

“Oh right! Of course…silly me…” Rarity, clearly embarrassed, acknowledged. “Still, you should have been more careful! Had you been watching where you were going this could have been avoided. Shame on you!” she lectured, then noted the sky blue pegasus in full.

“Wait a moment! Are you by chance the cloud-sculptor Summerbug my dear?’ she inquired.

“Yes’m, I’m actually her to meet a miss Rarity Belle? She had requested my skill for a fashion show of sorts. I just happened to meet an old acquaintance on my way here.” He replied

“Marvelous! How rude of me darling. I am Miss Rarity Belle, but feel free to simply call me Rarity. You’re a day early dear. Oh but no matter, this will give us more time to become acquainted, you and I. I assume you brought your portfolio?”

“Yes, actually. I had it mailed to the motel I’ll be staying at the following week. It should be there by tomorrow morning.” He replied

“Wonderful! Anyway, today is Fluttershy and I’s spa day. You said you meet an old acquaintance?”

“It’s an honor Miss Rarity. And yes, however... she seems to have... forgotten we have ever meet..." Summerbug said in a tone comparable to Fluttershy's. Did she say Fluttershy? He pondered as he scanned over the yellow pegasus again.

“Beg your pardon, what was that last bit?”

“Nothing miss Rarity! Just mumbling a bit. No worries!” Summerbug nervously added before Rainbow Dash suddenly spoke up.

“Well how were we supposed to know everypony was gonna be an early bird today? The streets are usually pretty dead at this hour, except for AJ’s apple and apple pastry stand in the market place. Even Twilight is sleeping in! The one time I get up early too…” Rainbow Dash grumbled.

“Why are you up so darn early anyways Rainbow? Normally you’d still be  sleepin till `bout noon.” Applejack questioned.

“That is quite an astute question.” Rarity stated as she looked to Rainbow Dash and then to the cloud sculptor next to her.

“Oh my! Has our little Dashie been on the prowl with her, ahem, feminine charms?” Rarity teased.

“Wait, what? No! No, no and no! It’s not like that!” a perplexed Rainbow Dash stammered.

“Oh don’t be so modest, I’ve never seen you spending time with any other pegasus pony besides Fluttershy before, and a colt no less!” Rarity cooed devilishly.

“H-Hey! What’s that supposed to mean?” Rainbow Dash was starting to get annoyed.

Finally Summerbug stepped in, seeing where this was going.

“We just…met…again…today at the meadow just outside of the Everfree Forest.”  Fluttershy and Rarity gasped, “I invited her to watch the sun rise with me and we just talked a bit. Then I challenged her to a race and now here we are. We’re actually getting ready for breakfast and Rainbow Dash here said she knew of a good place to eat. It’s not what you’re implying” He stated as Rarity began to snicker and Applejack started guffawing, while Fluttershy smiled fondly at Rainbow Dash.

“I don’t know why you guys are laughing. I think it’s wonderful that Rainbow found her special somepony.” Fluttershy stated softly.

This began a new round of laughter as Rarity soon went from snickering to chortling and Applejack began to cry. This here is to darn rich! Applejack thought. Then, realization hammered into Rainbow Dash like a ton of bricks she finally caught on to the seemingly unprovoked laughter. Her normally cyan face was soon as scarlet as one of Aj’s apples.

“Ah- I…I-it’s not what you think! We were just hanging out!” Rainbow Dash blundered. The laughter did not cease, and like bees to honey, the laughter drew out a bouncing pink pony.

“Ooh! Ooh! Hi guys! What’s going on here? Did I miss something? Hey Dashie! Who’s your buddy? Does he like cake? I just made a tasty cake and its scrum-didilly-licious! That reminds me of a song! I’m not entirely sure how it goes again but it ends in –licious! Oh! Oh! Hey we totally need to throw a party for Skyguy! Hi! I’m Pinkie Pie by the way! What’s your name?” The bouncing pink pony fired off in rapid succession.

“Uhh…Hi Pinkie Pie, I’m Summerbug! Nice to meet you, I guess…” He leaned over to Rainbow Dash and whispered in her ear. “Skyguy? Are these the friends you mentioned?” he asked. When he did this it drew out some mock sounds of awe; however Rainbow Dash began to hyperventilate.

“You ok Dashie? You don’t look so good do you need me to get Nurse Redheart?” asked Pinkie Pie.

Rainbow Dash closed her eyes and began to control her breathing and even went as far as to do that thing Twilight was doing during the time they had to cater to the Equestria Games Inspector.

“No. I’m good.” She squeaked. “This. Is. Not. A. Date.” She insisted.

‘Woo doggie! Ah hadn’t laughed so hard since Big Mac got caught lovin’ on an babyin’ that old doll o’ Twilight’s! Hoo-boy! It took ya long enough ta catch on Rainbow.” AJ breathed, wiping away the few teardrops the remained in her fur.

“My word, that was brisk!” Rarity said, composing herself. “Now then, shall we start over darling? Why in Equestria were you up so early? If not for this colt of yours than who?” she snickered briefly.

“Well, as I was saying before the lot of ya started assuming weird things, I originally was up so Twilight and I could get in some fly-time. But the egghead just wanted to sleep saying she was ‘reading’ about how to fly! You don’t just read something and know how, you learn from experience! So I just let alone at home to catch some Z’s and found Summerbug here randomly lounging in a meadow outside the Everfree! Just `cause we’re hanging out today doesn’t mean we’re an item or anything. Even though we did watch the sun rise…” the last part was mumble.

“I told her I was new here and that I didn’t know anypony, or rather thought I didn’t, so she kindly offered me her friendship. To be honest I really wasn’t expecting such an interesting bunch of pony folk, but that’s a good thing!” he hastily added.

“We gotta throw you a party now! Ohmygosh! Ohmygosh! I got so much planning to do now! I’m so excited!” and with that the Pink pony bounced off to begin her preparations.

“Well it’s mighty fine to meet `cha Summerbug. Guess ah’ll be seein ya’ll later fer the welcomin` party. Later ya’ll!”

“Come along now Fluttershy, let’s get you to that spa, Celestia knows you need it now after falling into the street. You two would do well to remember to be more considerate of those around you. Oh, and Summerbug, just call me Rarity, drop the miss please. We can go over our own preparations later I suppose. Ta-Ta!”

“Um…Bye…See you later, I guess…if that’s ok…” Fluttershy murmured.

“So…still hungry Dash?” Summerbug asked bashfully.

“I think I lost my appetite…” Rainbow Dash replied as she herself blushed.
> Chapter 2 - Pasts Revealed
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	
As Fluttershy and Rarity made their way to the Ponyville spa, Fluttershy took a glance back at Summerbug and Rainbow Dash. It’s been a long time since I saw Summerbug! I never expected him to change that much, I barely recognized him. She thought to herself.

"Fluttershy, dear, is something troubling you? You look a tad warm." asked a concerned Rarity. It took Fluttershy a few moments to acknowledge the white unicorn's inquiry, and then realized that she was blushing.

"Oh! Uh...no. It’s just that I was...um...remembering some stuff from when I was still a filly in school." she replied bashfully.

"Is it something you'd be willing to share dear? I would like to know how your school life was! Mine was pretty fair, aside from countless love notes shoved in my desk on almost a daily basis."

"Well, I suppose I could. It’s just a bit embarrassing though, and a little painful." she began.

"You needn't force yourself if wish not to talk about it." Rarity interrupted, not wishing for her friend to recall anything that would upset the timid mare.

"That's very thoughtful, but it’s in the past now. I don't mind at all really. It’s just that I was surprised to see how much Summerbug changed over the years." Fluttershy replied.

The white unicorn's ears suddenly perked up at that statement and her eyes lit up with wonder.

"You went to school with him? Then why did Rainbow say they had just met? Not that I doubt you dear, but you did go to the same school as her did you not?" She questioned, taken aback a bit.

"Oh, course we did. But in Rainbow's defense, even I hardly recognized him."

"How so?"

"Well back then, he...um...well...how put this in a nice way...was a teensy bit on the hefty side." Fluttershy said, feeling a little bad at how tactless she might have sounded.

"Really!? Well he certainly grew into quite the handsome stallion. Why that onyx mane, sapphire coat and tiger-eye like...eyes, (oh dear, that certainly sounded a bit off). Why, he would be quite the looker after I get my hooves on him! Oh! But do continue dear, I'm sorry for interrupting you so much."

"Oh...um...okay. Well, the thing is that back then he got picked on a lot, even worse than me. His art was just so moving and inspirational that I instantly began to fall in love with it! But because of his talent, others started rumors that he was...um...into other colts. I wish I wasn't so shy back then, then maybe I could have stood up for him and possibly make his school years easier. And...Maybe we..." she trailed off quietly.

Back then, she not only loved his art, but also harbored a secret crush on him as well. He was fine back then, but seeing him again after all this time and how toned he became, old feelings surged back in such a profound way the she had to hide her face behind her pink mane.   

"That you could what?" Rarity asked.

"So Rarity, how are you dresses coming along? I'm eager to see how your fashion week goes." Fluttershy quickly asked, hoping that the purple manned fashionista would take the bait and Fluttershy wouldn't have to share her embarrassing fantasy. And it seemed to have worked, because she suddenly began telling Fluttershy about her newest line; Emerald chic.

This brought the yellow Pegasus a much desired break, for she knew that the past would haunt her for as long as Summerbug stayed around.


***


After a quiet walk to the restaurant that Rainbow Dash initially suggested, Summerbug finally broke the silence.

"You're awfully quiet now Dash, what's on your mind?" he asked.

Rainbow paused momentarily as she pondered her answer, only to feel a blush cross her face. Unable to understand her sudden shift in feelings, she finally just asked him the question that had subconsciously been nagging her.

"Look, not to sound weird or anything, but have we meet before?"

Summerbug let out a "finally" Before turning to his rainbow manned acquaintance.

"Yes. You, Fluttershy and I all went to the same school. I was the fat little colt who asked you to be my special somepony on hearts and hooves day 16 years ago." He plainly and somewhat bitterly replied. Rainbow Dash suddenly remembered everything clearly, and stood in shock and disbelief at the revelation.

"Whoa, whoa, whoa! Hold on a minute, you mean to tell me that you’re that Summerbug? The art nerd?" she questioned in her usual, tactless, zeal.

Summerbug's face reddened in annoyance. "Yes, I am, Rainbow...Dash.” he replied, desperately suppressing the urge to call her by her old nickname, Rainbow Crash. However they were out of school and adults now. No need for petty name calling.

"Dude! You look great! Not to be rude, but how'd you do it? I mean, you were barely any better than Fluttershy flight-wise. But now you can fly almost on par with yours truly." She boasted, and then added, "Why didn't you tell me sooner? We could've avoided the awkward conversation we had with my friends earlier."

"It's...complicated. I was a little surprised to see you, actually, not only in boring little, rustic Ponyville, but also without your shadow."

Rainbow looked down to see her shadow. Yep, still there.

"What do you mean? My shadow's fine. You feel okay?" she questioned.

Summerbug face-hoofed, "I was referring to Gilda: The griffon that never seemed to leave your side, ring any bells?" he asked, mildly frustrated.
Rainbow looked away, a mix of sorrow and anger sculpting her expression. “We don't talk anymore..."

"Really? You two were inseparable. What changed?" Summerbug asked as the two reached their destination. As they ordered their food, Rainbow Dash began to recount the event of when Gilda had come for a visit to Ponyville.

Summerbug could barely believe what he was hearing. At first he thought it just a tall tail similar to the ones she would tell from their youth, but the more she continued the more pained she seemed to become. And soon things began to be clear, and he felt he needed to rectify with her, even if I didn't really change anything in regards to the past.

"Hey, Dash..." he began, unsure how this would turn, “When you first met me this morning, if I was snippy with you I want to apologize. For years I held a bitter resentment towards you, but now that I know a little more about you I feel I should come clean as to why."
"Wait, what did I do to YOU? If it’s because I turned you down, that's really kinda lame." she began, on the defensive.
“In part…yes. But Gilda had a claw in it too. Allow me to explain." He said, as he then recounted to rainbow dash what exactly transpired.
> Chapter 3 - History
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Chapter 3
History

16 years ago, Cloudsdale Area Flight School District


The day began as any other; Summerbug (10 at the time) awoke from his comfy cloud bed and rubbed the sleepies out of his eyes as the mini storm cloud created loud thunderclaps to wake him. He eventually found his way to the kitchen and saw breakfast waiting for him on the table with a note.


Bug-a-boo,

Had to work early, but here’s breakfast. Don’t be late for school! See you at home later.

-Love, mom


Yum, blueberry muffins. He thought as he ate the tasty treat, washing it down with a glass of milk. And with that he grabbed his saddlebags and lazily flew to school. Today’s the day!  He thought merrily to himself,  I’ll finally ask Rainbow Dash to be my special somepony! Even if she is a little on the young side yet.

To make the confession even better he even had hoof-made her a special Heart and Hooves day card. All the intricate details were wing-tip drawn; a talent few pegasai had or even thought of, really brought out the best of the cute illustration of him kissing Dash on the muzzle and her blushing. The art style was one he had gotten into recently, Neighponese. And after he read some of the comics that were imported he had developed a great love for the art form and got his cutie mark, which was an unfurled scroll with a feather on it ready to write, a week ago as he discovered his love for creating art.

Soon he found himself in front of the school, and even though he had been coming here for quite some time now, this was the first time he had actually gotten up really early just to be in school. This was not because he wanted to, but he had heard that Rainbow Dash would come early on certain days to practice her flying, using the flight class obstacle course, sometimes with her friend Gilda the griffon, and today just so happened to be one of those days. But, as he entered the building, he saw that a few other foals had the same idea as he had: to come early and confess to their school crushs.

As he landed and merrily began his trek to the obstacle course, he was suddenly cut off by a big and menacing brown and white griffon that was two years older than Summerbug.

"Well, well, well, if it isn't my old pal buggy. I never expected to see your fat flank here so early! Decided to give me my lunch bits early today? Or maybe you wanna get your beat down early and over with." he taunted.  Any other day Summerbug would have ran, or flew, or both, just to get away from him, but today was different. He spent the past two weeks preparing for this day, and his courage was soaring sky high.

"No Guile Gilder, I have something more important to do than to let you jack my lunch bits again!" Summerbug choked out; just because he felt brave didn't mean he wasn't terrified.

"What was that bug face--" Gilder growled, not believing what he was hearing. 'This worthless foal just talked back to me; well he'll wish he never had!'

"I said NO! How about asking your parents for more instead of picking on us little ponies! Or was the teacher wrong about griffons being proud and honorable?" Summerbug spat, clearly hitting a nerve.

"You know what? It sounds to me somepony wants a chocolate swirly after a good thrashing." Gilder retaliated, advancing on the little blue and white pegasus. Just when he was a hoof's length away from the his muzzle; a third, effeminate voice sounded from behind.

"Leave my little bug-a-boo alone Gilder!" the new arrival warned. Summerbug suddenly felt his brave front collapse and his face flush as his blonde maned and hazel furred friend, Silver Stitch, called Summerbug by his pet name.

"Silver Stitch, not helping..." Summerbug grumbled as his face met his hoof in embarrassment.

"And so the other coltcuddler appears. How about you leave now four-eyes before I add you to the mix and wreck that pretty face of yours." Guile was visibly trembling and flexing his talons as he looked between the pair of foals flanking him.

"I-I will inform the school board about this unless you leave him alone, you ruffian!" Silver Stitch weakly threatened as he adjusted his stylish, black framed glasses and fuchsia scarf.

"Ya know now, there's an idea, I hear bloody muzzles are in this week. Hows about a matching set?" Gilder growled and raised both talons, ready to attack both foals simultaneously. As the sharp razors were about to strike his intended targets, suddenly a sharp pain slammed into his side, knocking him off balance and making him miss. Looking over he saw Summerbug getting ready for a second buck, which came straight for his beak.
Striking true, Summerbug told Silver Stitch to get out of the fray, but despite his best efforts his hooves remained planted firmly to the floor as he watched in awe, and horror, of the unfolding fight.

 'Have I gone mad? I bucked Guilder, twice! Aww horse apples...'Summerbug chided himself mentally, bracing for next attack; and with one swift kick Guilder sent Summerbug crashing into a group of fillies. As he looked around he noticed that were quite a few foals gathered to see what was going on and both Summerbug and Guilder were too concerned about each other to notice the growing audience as some colts began chanting "Fight! Fight! Fight!"

"You bucked me! You friggin' bucked, me! Now it is so on!" Guilder bellowed, towering over Summerbug. As Guilder brought down a talon, Summerbug clumsily dodged, to receive only an immediate kick to the muzzle that sending little flecks of blood flying in all directions.

Before he realized it, Summerbug’s head hit the wall behind him.  ‘Of all places to happen, it had to be closer to the ground level with very few cloud walls.’  He thought to himself as he held the back of his now aching head. Squinting, he watched as Guilder approached, and then suddenly stop. Curious, he opened his eyes fully to see what ceased his approach, and was suddenly overwhelmed with horror.

During the fight, the card Summerbug worked so hard on for Rainbow Dash had fallen out and was now lying on the ground right under Guilder’s talon. What was unbridled rage, had now become mocking laughter as the griffon brute picked up the card and read its contents out loud for all to hear;



“Dearest Rainbow Dash, so young and spry,
For several months now you’ve been the apple of my eye.
Your bright blue coat and rainbow mane,
Would surely put any mare to shame.
I love to watch your awesome moves, and on this day I want to choose.
Will you be my special somepony, and hold me close when I am lonely?
And to hold my heart and soul so dearly?
If you do be sure to know, I will be the loyalist colt you’ll ever know!”



As Guilder finished reading, many of the other foals that were gathered around broke out in a uproarious fit of laughter. Summerbug started to feel an empty void begin to tear at the edges of his heart as he sat there, as the emotional pain slowly began to feel like a physical blow to his chest. Tears began to well up in his eyes. “….give it back…that’s not yours…” he weakly said, fighting back his tears.

Guilder, chortling as he spoke, continued his taunt, "Ye-, you actually think- that you have a shot with Rainbow Crash? That blank flank two grades below you? You gotta be buckin’ kidding me. You ain’t got a chance with her! You’re fat, slow, ugly and most definitely the most idiotic foal I know. Even you’re little coltfriend was smart enough to not pick a real fight with me. Face it buggy, you can barely even keep up with that yellow, weak winged filly in flight class. Now, if you’ll excuse me--” Guilder began, tearing the Hearts and Hooves day card to tiny bits right before Summer’s eyes and meandered over to him, tossing the ripped pieces of paper on him like confetti. Reaching down into the saddle bag, Gilder procured five bits, “…I have food to buy.” Then he brought a talon down on Summerbug’s head, slamming his face onto the ground with a sickening thud, and walked away leaving Summerbug to stare at the tiny pieces of paper that he had poured his heart and soul into making. His vision began to blur as he could no longer contain his emotions and tears mixed with blood that both of which were now running freely down his face.

He couldn’t recall how long he had lay on the cold hard ground weeping, a few minutes, maybe a few seconds. He didn’t know or care. But it wasn’t very long after that, that he felt a gentle pair of hooves pick him up and into a warm, caring embrace as a wing gently rubbed his back. Slowly, his sobbing lessened and became more controlled.

“Don’t worry Summerbug, he’ll get his soon enough! I’m here for you, and you can bet your flank the principle will hear about this act of injustice! I’m here for you, and I will be for as long as you need me to be.” Silver Stich promised quietly. Summerbug looked up into Silver’s bronze eyes, and slowly pulled away. “Bug-a-boo, what are you doing? Let’s get to the nurse, you’re beat pretty bad.” He insisted, but his words fell on deaf ears as Summerbug gathered up his things. As he started to walk away he looked back over his shoulder and said, “…Stop calling me that. I’m not a bucking coltcudder, and I’ll prove it to everyone. I’m okay if you’re into other colts Silver, but please for the love of Celestia stop trying to drag me into that world with you. I can’t be anything more to you then a friend, I’m sorry.” He said somberly, then took a deep breath and ran as fast as he could to get to the obstacle course.

“But I can make you happy…” Silver said to the now vacant hallway, a lonely tear tailing down his cheek. With a sigh, he took out his own hoof made gift, a sky blue scarf with golden trim, opened it up and put the pieces of the torn Hearts and Hooves day card on it. Then he  rolled the two up together and threw them both in the first trash can he came across, silently crying now knowing the answer to the question never had a chance to ask.


***


Summerbug arrived at his destination, sweaty and wheezing, just in time to see Rainbow Dash and Gilda finishing up a new trick. It was the most beautiful thing he had ever seen. The way she would twist and weave, and how the light from Celestia’s sun caught her coat at just the right moments to make for a truly amazing display. It was like watching a leaf gracefully dancing in the wind, the landing not so much. Rainbow Dash had tried to land with a dramatic flair, only to crash head first into a cumulous cloud.

“Heh, you sure your special talent ain’t running inta things?” the Female griffon jested.

“Ha ha, very funny Gilda, but mark my words, I will be the best of the best in all of Equestria! The Wonderbolts will be begging for me to join ‘em!” Filly Dash boasted as Gilda helped her out of the cloud. “Tch, ya, as if. We both know they’ll want me.” Gilda teased with a wink.

“Whatever Gilda…Oh Hi’ya.” Rainbow said, finally taking note of the chubby sky blue pegasus. “You lost or something? The nurse is that way.” She said, pointing a hoof opposite the way he had come.

“N-no, I just wanted to see you…” He began, wiping the blood off of his muzzle.

“Who?” Dash asked, “There’s two of us here.”

“Y-you, Rainbow Dash… um I was hoping-” he began before a voice called out from the flight class doors. “He’s really gonna do it!” And sure enough, a small herd of foals came dashing over to the three.

“Hey lame-o, what the hay is this all about?” Gilda shot at Summerbug.

“Oh no…This can’t be happening…” He said in horror as they were now surrounded by half the school it seemed.

“Calm down Gilda, They probably are here to see my awesomeness! Hey everypony! I’m a bit tired right now, but I guess I can give ya all a show after school.” The rainbow-maned pegasus boasted.

“What are you on about? We just wanna see the drama unfold!” squeaked a pegasus filly.
“Huh?” Dash said, cocking her head in confusion.

“I’m so sorry, I-I really didn’t want to ask you like this, but…w-would you be my special somepony?’ He managed to choke out, his face scarlet.

Realization dawned on her, and she herself began to feel her own cheeks flare up in embarrassment. Suddenly a what seemed like thousands of voices rang out saying things like “He actually asked her!”, “Summerbug and Rainbow Dash sitting in a Tree-” and “Rainbow Crash has an admirer!” in addition to catcalls.

Panicked, she became angry with the one who brought this unwanted attention on her and blurted out the first things that come to mind, “ As if! Why would I ever date anypony like you? It takes away from my fly time with Gilda and besides, you’d need to be, like… two hundred percent cooler before I even consider it! I don’t think you could even keep up with a butterfly! So take your little drama show somewhere else you jerk!” She yelled and quickly flew off, leaving Summerbug even more heart broken than before, and if that wasn’t enough, Gilda turned her wrath on him as well, grabbing his throat and bringing his muzzle barely an inch away from her beak.

“What’s the big idea? Now look what ya did, you actually managed to embarrass her, and that is somthin’ I ain’t neva seen anypony do. An jus’ cause ya wanted a ‘special somepony’, how lame is that! I doubt she even has any interest in boys at this point. Now listen up and listen good, cause if I eva’ see ya sorry face ‘round here again, Imma make sure it looks worse than it does now. And even if she did like boys, they’d need ta be strong, resilient and be able to keep up wit her. Heh, I bet I even got a betta chance with her than you. Seriously, who wants a fat, sniveling colt like you anyway? Do us all a fava and crawl unda a rock.” She commanded, releasing her hold on Summerbug, and flying after Dash.

Everypony was laughing at his failed attempt, and some went on to elaborate what had happened earlier with Guile, caused more rounds of laughter. Having been rejected, bruised, humiliated and beaten, he flew away as fast as his little wings could carry him.  ‘This can’t be happening. It was never meant to be this way…’


***


After a visit to the nurse, Summerbug reluctantly sat through his classes, trying his hardest to not break down or draw any more attention to himself. 'This has to be the worse day if my life, so many failures and embarrassments before the bell even rang. I am worthless...’  He thought to himself. 

As the day pressed on, he cycled through the mornings events over and over again, growing in both anger and depression simultaneously, until only two things were on his mind;" Who needs friends" and "I'll get in shape and make everypony rue this day!"

But despite his best mental promises and threats, he still found himself at the end of the day alone in the auditorium. It had seemed that the stress of the day gave raise to new insults, like ‘weeping wonder’ and ‘dumbbug’. On occasion he even caught glimpses of a yellow filly with a pink mane that he recognized to be one of Rainbow's groupies, and just scowled at her. What he was too blind to see was the pained expression that she wore. Soon he came to one conclusion, that all he needed was his art and nothing more.

Absentmindedly grabbing a hoof-ful of cloud, he began sculpting it into a mini Rainbow Dash. As he finished with some minor details, and using the innate magical talent that all pegasai had in regards to weather control, he gently blew on the miniature cloud sculpture and froze it solid. He then looked it over and ran a hoof along it with a sigh. The sadness returned and he tossed it aside as he curled up into a ball and let his emotions out again, for what seemed the hundredth time today. 

To his chagrin, he felt a pair of hooves, once again, wrap around him and pull him into an embrace. Partially annoyed he opened his eyes and prepared to lecture Silver Stitch again, only to feel the words die in his throat as he saw a blonde and grey filly with a golden, cross-eyed stare looking back at him. 

"Oh, sorry for not asking, but I heard you crying. And I came to see who it was, and saw you. Hugs always make me feel better when I'm all kinds of sad, so I thought, 'I should hug him!' and so I did." she said, almost too merrily.

"Uh...Thanks -"

"Derpy! I'm Derpy 'Ditsy do' Hooves. Kinda a weird name I know. Nice to meet you! You're Summerbug right? I heard how you stood up against that bully Guilder and asked Rainbow Dash to be your special somepony. I thought you were really...uh...what's the word...bold? Maybe...wait! I got it! Brave! It was really brave of you." she said with a reassuring nod.

Confused, he responded with, an uncertain 'thank you,' to the pony. This was actually the first time a filly, a filly actually tried to comfort him. Even though he felt really happy, it also felt a little weird. He had become so used to it being Silver Stitch being his shoulder to cry on that, finally having a filly offer hers instead was not only a breath of fresh air, but also a very alien feeling. And to top it off, she did so without a second thought! Anypony else would think twice given his undeserved reputation of being into colts, but not this sweet wall-eyed filly named Derpy.

"Thanks, I did need that." he said, feeling himself blush ever so slightly.

"Um, if I can ask you a question; is it true, about you and Silver Stitch? I don't want to assume, but I’m curious." she sheepishly asked.

Summer's admiration for her soon turned sour. 'And there it is! I knew this was too good to be true...’ he thought to himself.

"No, it's not. We're just friends and nothing more. Why, did he put you up to this? I should have known, no filly wants to be with me. If it’s not because they think I'm ugly, then it's because they think I'm gay. Thanks Derpy, but I think I should leave." he said, cynically, and pulled out of her embrace, just to get yanked back more tightly than before.

"That's not true! I really do just to help. Nopony is making me do anything! You shouldn't talk bad about yourself or lose hope just cause of a bad day." Derpy said, her words obviously ones she would often tell herself it seemed. She flattened her ears as concern laced her features. "Really..." she added.

Summerbug had dealt with too many emotions already for today and pulled free of her grasp, and flew away as fast as he could manage. 

Derpy sat there, head held low as she herself felt like she failed to help somepony in need. She felt a hoof on her shoulder as Silver's voice reached her ears, " Hey there, don't look so sad. He's just having a terrible day. I saw the whole thing from the doorway, and I can't thank you enough for trying to help him. My name is Silver Stitch, I am...or was it seems...his best friend. Would you like some company?" he asked, sitting next to Derpy, and hugged her. "You like him too, don't you?" he asked warmly. She nodded.

"As do I," and the two sat embracing each other.


***


"Then I finally decided to buck up and get around to getting in shape and started doing big cloud sculptures to help with my flying. It took forever, but now here I am telling you about how lame and pathetic I was." Summerbug deadpanned. 

Rainbow Dash's jaw hung agape as he finished telling his tale and took a bite out of his rose and dandelion sandwich. 

"That was like a soap opera! It was so sad and sappy I almost gagged on my food. Twice. Seriously! You were so emo! But I guess I can't judge you too harshly, after all we were just foals back then. So I guess that kind of stuff was a pretty big deal. And just so we're clear on something, if you would have waited and asked me somewhere private I might not have reacted the way I did. And Gilda...she was she was such a jerk back then too. Maybe she was why I wasn't very popular with the colts, and since she hinted that she had a better shot with me than you I’m curious as to why she really wanted to hang out with me all the time." 

"But after hearing your side I wanna say sorry. Like I said, if it was a private confession things might've been different. I panicked and hurt you really bad. So, whadda ya say? Bygones?" she asked, extending a hoof in friendship. 

Summerbug looked down, and pondered. Ever since that day he shut himself away from everyone, built up walls and trained his mind to push away any kind of feelings that he would often times come to regret having. But, this was a new age, they were both fully grown, and he understood what was truly important, peace and survival. Gingerly, he lifted a hoof and gave her a hoof bump. 

"Yeah." He smirked.
> Chapter 4 - Party Plight
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Chapter 4
Party Plight



It had been a busy morning, and he felt not only worn out, but also a little unnerved.  So far Summerbug ran into not only one, but two old schoolmates. After he and Rainbow Dash had parted ways, he started to get upset; a little angry even. He had come to do a job for a client, not meet up with the ghosts of his past. He hated his past. He emotionally hurt other ponies because he himself was emotionally crushed. He isolated himself, built up walls, and refused friendships. All so that he would never feel that pain again, and now, after 16 years his past caught up to him and the very filly that shattered his heart, was not only back in his life, but also extending her hoof in friendship! Of all of the ponies in Ponyville, and he just so happened to meet up her, Rainbow Dash. If not for the generous amount of bits his client offered, he'd have already up and left. When they use the term 'starving artist,' they really mean it. And a pony can only live for so long on grass, noodles and water.

What he hadn't told Rainbow Dash was that when he had gotten home, on that very same day, his mom told him they needed to move right away because his father had gambled and drank away the mortgage bits again for what seemed to be the millionth time, and that they only had 24 hours to move out. And that she was leaving his father because he didn't care for the family.

Summerbug knew all too well the fights his mom and dad had at night. Summerbug's father would often stumble home late from a night of bar hopping and hookers, so he had no qualms about disowning his own father. He witnessed his father's selfishness first hoof after all. There were a few times he remembered that he even took a few hits from the booze idled stallion to protect his mom on bad nights.

So Summerbug and his mom moved far away to a small town called Rockhaven. It was nice enough and one of their neighbors even owned a rock farm. They made some decent bits making limestone and marble furniture for the more well-to-do families. Yet they remained humble (and often times stoic). They dressed kind of old fashioned too, come to think of it. 

It was only recently that he decided to move back to Cloudsdale in hopes to get some more exposure. After all, weather ponies liked to have at least one cloud sculptor so that the ponies that liked to laze about in soft warm grass and cloud gaze could see what shapes were in the clouds. A cloud sculptor's job was essentially to make these uniquely shaped clouds for that very propose. However, freelance artists like Summerbug had to get special permission from the local weather team to use their clouds on the ground for special events. And more often than not cloud sculptures were usually a popular attraction as earth ponies and unicorns would be able to actually get close enough to touch the fluffy water vapor.

I never should have taken this job... It's nice that I was able to clear the air between Dash and I. Tartarus, why couldn't I just let things be? She didn't even notice who I was until I opened my mouth and told her! Did I really want her to recognize me that bad? Tartarus, I haven't even been on a date and I'm 26! I guess I'm still afraid...how pathetic. I can't even work up the courage to ask out any mare that I admire. 

Allowing his self-loathing to quench his short lived anger, he sighed as he made his way to the hotel he was staying at for the week. Despite his annoyance, he had to admit that Rainbow Dash had grown into quite the sexy mare, and that even Fluttershy, that lanky timid filly, had grown up to be absolutely gorgeous! She could be a model if she wanted to be.

Come to think of it, wasn’t she on the cover of a few magazines a few months back?  He pondered.

As he approached, he noticed a mail mare in front of his room with a package under her wing. She appeared quite charming as her grayish-silver fur looked incredibly soft and her golden mane swayed gently as she moved her head around. Then something clicked in his head as his eyes fell upon her own.

Don’t tell me...

She looked up and he could hear her say to herself “I’m sure this is the right room...”

She then looked over to Summerbug as if to ask a question, and immediately he knew for sure who it was. That quirky, cross-eyed stare was unmistakable. Her jaw hung agape as she took in who was standing before her, letting the package fall unceremoniously onto the ground as she stood frozen in shock. The world seemed to stand still as she watched in disbelief as the sky blue pegasus gingerly approached her...

“...Summerbug?” she finally managed to choke out. She was so overwhelmed with emotion. Sure she only ever interacted with him once 16 years ago, however she couldn’t help but feel the resurgence of her fillyhood crush returning in full.
“Hello, Derpy, it’s been some time hasn’t it?” he asked gently, "...So...you live in Ponyville now too, I take it?" he continued casually, trying to make the situation less awkward for the both of them.

"Yeah, I'm actually the mail mare. Um...so is this your place?" she asked, finally picking up the package that she had carelessly dropped. 

"Yes, it is, for the following week at least. The local seamstress, Rarity, had offered me a cloud sculpting job for a fashion show of her's. According to the few letters we sent back and forth, she wants to make a high society show of it. She offered a large sum of bits for my talents, how could I refuse?" he replied as he approached the room. "If you're not too busy, would you like to come in for a little? Maybe have some tea or water?" he politely offered.

A bright blush found its way across Derpy's face as she shied away. He also noticed her fidget from time to time nervously. She looked a little upset as well, as if she had been harshly scolded for doing something wrong. And after a bit of thought, Summerbug concluded that on some level that she was still hurt over that small incident years ago. He knew that most normal ponies let the past go and eventually forget about the stupid grade school drama, but here he was, still getting upset over silly issues from back then as well. He could buck himself for being as foalish as he had been acting lately. Well why the buck not? If nothing else it'll give me solace. I should start a list of 'Ponies I need to talk to.'  Stupid past drama ruining my present life... 

Derpy suddenly felt a soft wing pull her into a gentle hug, causing her to gasp in surprise. The entire situation went from awkward to confusing. Summerbug actually initiating physical contact? Actually hugging somepony else of his own volition? These thoughts raced through her mind as she found herself suddenly nuzzling into his neck sweetly. Then she heard Summerbug say a phrase that made her heart skip and her eyes water.

"'Hugs always make me feel better when I'm all kinds of sad, so I thought 'I should hug her', and so I did.'" he replied, smiling warmly at her.
"You...remembered that?" she replied, wiping away a stray tear as a warm smile crept across her lips. 
"Barely a day goes by that I don't recall it at some point throughout the day, and I think I know why." he began, as Derpy felt butterflies suddenly invade her belly. Could he actually like her? Was he about to confess secret feelings that he had for her, only now resurfacing after years of seclusion and yearning for more?  I've been reading too many romance novels.   she thought to herself, blushing in embarrassment at her own wild fantasies. She took a deep breath, bracing herself for whatever Summerbug was about to say to her.

"I know that it's been quite some time, and I know that when last we met, I was kind of a jerk when all you were trying to do was cheer me up. I also realize that I kind of blew up at you for asking an innocent question. And for all of that I would like to apologize to you. You didn't deserve any of that. I know it's a really late apology, but do you think that you could possibly forgive me? I would be willing to further reconcile if need be."

All she could do was take in that which she had just heard. His words washed over her as he spoke, immersing her in a torrent of emotions that she had not known that she had retained from her past. She was angry, happy, and hopeful. 
"I suppose we could, but tonight is a Pinkie Party, and I still need to deliver some out of town mail yet. I haven't even found a foal-sitter for Dinky yet.-"

"You have a foal?" Summerbug asked, surprised. "Not to say I never thought you wouldn't find a special somepony, but you're a bit young, like Twenty-three-ish? Actually forget that I said anything, you're a grown mare. I'll shut up now." He replied, mentally chastising himself for how tactless and judgmental he must have sounded right then.

Derpy appeared ashamed at first, but by her expression it soon became evident she was offended and gave him that protective and crippling look that only a proud mother could give. He feared for his life at that moment as he gulped audibly.
"You aren't very good at making conversation, are you?" she asked bitterly. It was Summerbug's turn to turn away in shame. The truth is that she was absolutely right. He had never before stopped to think about it, but he was actually really rude and nosey more often than not, it suddenly became very clear to him at that moment. He turned to Derpy, and somberly admitted to her, "No, I'm really not. I'm sorry for offending you, I didn't mean to. I'll be going in now. Nice seeing you again..." and with a sigh, he unlocked his room door and went in. 

Derpy heard the sincerity in his tone and, likewise remembering about the package, stopped the door with her wing before Summerbug was able to fully close it.

"Look, Summerbug, if you need help or anything on how to talk to other ponies, and not come off as kind of mean, Princess Twilight Sparkle could probably help you out. Or if being around a Princess seems little scary you could probably also get some help from Fluttershy or maybe even your client, Rarity." 

Summerbug paused and gave the suggestion serious consideration, then looked over to the mare. “Okay, I will. Thank you very much Derpy. Oh. And about the ‘Pinkie party’ you mentioned earlier, is a crazy pink mare with a fluffy tail and mane in charge of it?”
“Yeah! She makes some of the best muffins! You know her?” She inquired.
Summerbug facehooved as he recalled the bubbly, pink mare’s words.  ‘Hey we totally need to throw a party for Skyguy! Hi! I’m Pinkie Pie by the way! What’s your name?’  and  ‘We GOTTA throw you a party now! Ohmygosh! Ohmygosh! I got so much planning to do now! I’m so excited!’ 

“What’s wrong, don’t you like muffins?’ Derpy asked with a concerned face as she witnessed his reaction.
“No, no, muffins are fine; it’s just that when I came into town with Rainbow Dash I also ran into some of her friends. I already mentioned Rarity, but apparently she’s friends with others, I recall a cow-pony named something like Apple-hat; I think. Fluttershy and Pinkie as well. Pinkie mentioned about throwing me a party as soon as she met me, but I thought she was just crazy. Does she really do that?” he questioned, fearing the answer.

“Yep! That’s Pinkie for you! She’ll find any excuse to throw a party, and they are really fun too. And just so you know, the cow pony you mentioned is Applejack.” Derpy began to snicker as said Apple-hat to herself. “SO that explains why Pinkie was running around more giggly than usual. If that is the case you better not miss it, or she’ll be sad. Nopony likes a sad Pinkie.” 

Summerbug’s eye twitched.  A party? An actual party, for me? A total newcomer to Ponyville?- This town is crazy…

“Well, I need to finish my rounds, hope to see you later!” Derpy said as she hoofed him his mail and left. As Summerbug watched her leave, he could have sworn she was actually sauntering away in a lascivious manner, and the motion memorized him momentarily. After a good minute of watching her walk away, she took flight and Summerbug closed the door and took a deep breath. As he sorted through his mail, he found a letter addressed to him that he did not recognize. The package was the art supplies that he would need in order to do his best work for his client, however, this particular letter was pink and smelled like it had frosting on it. As he opened the letter he found out that there was indeed frosting on the envelope with his name written on it from Pinkie Pie.  Frosting? Really?  He pondered the mental stability of this mare now more than he had before, and he just met her.

Hello!,
I’m Pinkie Pie and I’m throwing a super-awesome surprise party just for you! But if it’s a surprise party I just ruined it, and if I ruined it then you won’t be surprised and then you’d be sad and I don’t want you to be sad. So it’s not a surprise…but it is going to be an awesome party for the newest pony in Ponyville! And seeing as it’s your party you’re totally invited! There’ll be games, and food and music and all kinds of fun stuff! And you can meet all my friends and then be their friends as well and we’ll be super friends! It’ll be at Sugarcube Corner at five and then when all the little foals get sleepy and their mommy’s and daddy’s need to take them home around nine, then we can all continue the party at Applejack’s barn for big pony fun! Unless you don’t drink hard cider, which in that case you could leave too, but who wouldn’t wanna hang out with all their pals over a cold one? And I have some special friends coming too! Hope to see you later, Skyguy!
Your friend, Pinkie Pie! 

P.s.- If you have pictures in your portfolio of your artwork I would totally love to see them! Rarity told me all about your work and I really want to see your sweet work for myself! 

Summerbug slowly placed the letter onto a nearby nightstand and crawled under the covers of the bed. 

Sweet Celestia, what have I gotten myself into... 

> Chapter 5 - Silver and Gold
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter 5
Silver and Gold


Warm sunlight filtered in through a nearby window as a brown stallion hummed a lovely tune. His stylish black rimmed glasses rested low upon his muzzle as he focused on the garment he was currently making.

"Just one last stitch and...perfect!" he exclaimed as the pegasus took a few steps back and clapped his hooves in excitement as he admired his latest design to complete his new fashion line. Blazers, Lapels, and a few select dresses made up his current line, called Gemstone la Renaissance. The outfits themselves were all inspired by the deep, rich colors of gemstones with silver highlights and in the design of those times. To further add to their extravagance, he added cut stones to the buttons and the cuffs in relation to the outfit's color. Suddenly the bell chimed in the next room.

He slicked back his long golden mane, and situated his beloved fuchsia scarf. With a bow he entered the display room and gleefully welcomed the newcomer.

"Welcome to the Silver Siren Boutique! I am Silver-Stitch, the owner and proprietor of the elegant shop you now stand in! How may I-" He paused mid-sentence as his eyes opened and beheld the mare before him.

"Do mine eyes deceive me? Derpy Hooves? My goodness honey, how are you?" he inquired in his effeminate voice as he rushed up to the mare. "It's been a year since last we met up, sweetheart. We really do need to get together more regularly. Pleasantries aside, to what do I owe the honor of this pleasant surprise?" he asked, unable to keep from prancing about in his excitement. 

"Well, that might be sooner than you think Silver! You got an invite from a friend of mine back in Ponyville named Pinkie Pie. I didn't know you knew her too. She was pretty insistent that I deliver this to you A.S.A.P. and said that it was super-duper important that you come. Come to think of it, how did she know that we knew each other?" she pondered as she put a hoof to her chin.

"Pinkie Pie? I don't know a Pinkie Pie. Who is she?" He questioned, taking the pink letter Derpy was presenting to him, and began to open the letter with a wingtip.

"Really? You don't know her? That's weird, but then again it is Pinkie! She's a mystery wrapped within a mystery!" She nodded as Silver-Stitch began to read the invitation.

'Hi,
I'm Pinkie Pie and I just overheard two of my friends talking about school days in Cloudsdale and I heard the saddest, most gloomy, dramatic story ever!

I want my new friend to be happy again and so I thought, 'I need to invite Silver-Stitch!' because you two were, like, the bestest friends ever! But then he had a really bad day and totally shot you down I don't like seeing friends fight or be sad or hurt.

So please, if you have time to visit Ponyville tonight, that would be really super amazing! Then you two can play games and eat cake and make up, and then you two can catch up on all the things you missed out on over the years you two spend separated. I even got you a train ticket! Hope to see you around 5 o'clock at Sugarcube Corner in Ponyville!
Your pal, Pinkie Pie.'

Silver-Stitch reread the invite several times before turning quizzically to derpy.

"Derpy dear, who is this Pinkie Pie talking about?" 

Derpy shifted nervously and started to fondle her mane with an idle hoof.

"Um...w-well...the thing is...", she paused, pondering her next words.

"Our local fashionista, Rarity, hired a cloud sculptor from Cloudsdale to make cloud art for a fashion show she'll be holding this week starting tomorrow. It just so happens that...it was Summerbug..." She finally choked out, blushing brightly.

Silver-Stitch dropped the letter and stared awestruck at Derpy. His old friend, his old love, Summerbug, resurfacing now after sixteen long years of not knowing what had happened to him.  He hadn't noticed the tears forming at this corner of his eyes until derpy took her wingtip and wiped away his tears with a concern look upon her face.

"S-Summerbug, he's back? Alive? not that I ever truly believed in those old rumors, but he practically vanished the day after that incident. H-he didn't even say goodbye..." he whimpered. Derpy pulled him into a loving and compassionate embrace, just like she had done many times before for her daughter, Dinky, when she was having a rough day at school.

"There, there, Silver. Its going to be okay, you don't have to worry anymore. he seems well and he's been trying to make things right with everypony, even me. I think you should try to make it to the party." she suggested. 

Silver-Stitch slowly composed himself. And with a weak smile he said he would.

"Thank you, Derpy, dear. Maybe if this, "Rarity" will allow it, perhaps I  could possibly display my own fashion line alongside hers. Would you be so kind as deliver a last minute letter to her from me?" he asked Derpy. Being hopeful of the days events, she eagerly waited as he wrote out the letter.

"Thank you so much dear. I'll begin preparations and at the very least, I will see you at this 'Pinkie Party'." he informed her.

"As long as I can find a foalsitter for Dinky, that'll be a promise!" she happily replied and flew off, back to Ponyville.

After she had left, he sighed. He meandered over to his work room and unlocked the bottom drawer marked 'memories', and began to restore the scarf that he had made for Summerbug so many years ago, as well as that lovely love note to Rainbow Dash from sixteen years ago.

"I feel so ashamed of throwing these out originally. It was a good thing that I was able to dig them out of that trashcan before the janitor had a chance to throw them out! By the end of  today, I'll fix and clean them both if its the last thing I do!" and with the rekindled flame of hope, love and friendship in his heart, he went to work repairing and restoring the age-worn gifts.

***

"Oh Aloe, this new massage oil is so divine. How ever do you come up with such a wonderful mixture?" Rarity cooed to Aloe as the spa twins massaged their clients.

"You are too kind." she replied as her sister, Lotus, was gently combing Fluttershy's hair.

"Yes, well. Fluttershy sweetness, I can't help but recall that you said your school years with Summerbug where a bit painful but you only said how he was picked on and had lovely art. What was painful?" She asked her.

Fluttershy froze up. Oh Fluttershy, you're such a loud mouth. And with a sigh she began to explain.

"Well, before dashie and I got our cutie marks, he had confessed his feelings for her. But it went terribly wrong. The bully, Guile Gilder had hurt him earlier, and the next day Summerbug was absent and never came back to school."

"The local paper said that Shutterbug, Summerbug's father, was in the hospital in intensive care for severe alcohol poisoning. Soon a rumor began that Summerbug and his mother had died in an accident related to that. There house was destroyed and whatever was burnable was burned. It came out later in the papers that Shutterbug was an abusive stallion."  Rarity gasped.

"But earlier that day, word got out that Summerbug had stood up to Guile Gilder  and that the two got into a fight. Summerbug was a bloody mess..." she paused to catch her breath.

"Some of the students started to think that Guile had actually hunted him down and killed him. He was an intimidating griffon. It was a silly rumor though, but Guile then heard the rumor and decided to use it to scare the other students into following his every whim."

"Needless to say that when the teachers caught wind of the rumor and that he encouraged it, that he was then sent to a juvenile court and then to a psychiatrist. Not even the teachers knew about Summerbug or his mother's whereabouts. So we just assumed the worst."

"But I followed the case and the bodies were never found, so I hoped he was still alive, but must confess I had some doubt." Fluttershy finished with a sigh.

"Oh sweetie... I'm so sorry. I shouldn't have pressed the issue. I feel just terrible now... can you ever forgive me?" Rarity pleaded.

"Of course, he's alive after all. I feel silly for even entertaining the rumor. You were just curious after all." Fluttershy replied. 

As Rarity and Fluttershy left the spa the two ran into Derpy who was both smiling and also exhausted. 

"Hi... Rarity... got... letter..." and plopped on the ground in front of the two holding out a lovely and very elegant, baby blue letter. 

With her magic Rarity lifted Derpy to her hooves and opened the letter.

"Oh? who is this from? Thank you Derpy, here, for your troubles. And please have a spa day on me." Rarity told her as she levitated a pouch of precious  gems to Derby; who could not believe the  amount of wealth she was holding in her hooves.

"R-Rarity? I-I can't accept this. This is way too much-"

"Oh nonsense, you look completely exhausted. Please, I insist! You deserve to be pampered once in awhile, you  are always working so hard to provide for sweet little Dinky. Speaking of whom, Sweetie Belle was wondering if Dinky was as still on for a cutie mark crusader sleepover this Friday night?"

"Ah..ah..thank you so much, Rarity!" Derpy said wiping a wiping a tear from her eye. "And yes, Dinky can't stop talking about the sleepover! She's very excited about it."

"Oh, how wonderful! I will let Sweetie Belle know as soon as I can. Now about this lovely letter." She said as she prepared to read it.

'Dearest Rarity,
It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance. Please allow me to introduce myself, my name is Silver-Stitch, owner and proprietor of the Silver Siren Boutique, located in the higher regions of Canterlot proper.

It has come to my attention that you are planning a fashion show this week. Forgive me for being so direct, but it would be a great honor if you would be willing to allow me to have the opportunity to display my newest fashion line alongside your own. I realize this request is rather bold, and I will completely understand if you were to decline, but nonetheless, I have received an invite to a party that is to take place in your humble hometown this afternoon well into the evening, and would be honored to meet you in the flesh. 

Yours truly, Silver-Stitch.'

As Rarity finished reading the letter, and considered the request, Fluttershy curiously read the letter over Rarity's shoulder as well and let out a small giggle which did not go unheard.

"Did I miss something?" Rarity inquired.

"Oh no. Sorry Rarity, but I couldn't help but follow the letter with you. I went to school with Silver-Stitch as well. He is a very sweet pony. He is actually the one  who helped me when I was in home education class when I was struggling with sewing and taught me a great deal about it as well. You and Silver-Stitch would get along very well." Fluttershy explained.

"So he's a Pegasus fashionista?"

"Yes."

Rarity then began to shudder with anticipation and she reveled in the prospect of having a potential friend that also happens to share in her passion. She had made up her mind. 

"Derpy, sweetness, would you be willing to do me a small favor?" she cooed whilst batting her eyelashes.

***

Good thing I found a sitter for Dinky! and on such short notice as well! Finally my last trip to Canterlot to meet with Silver and to give him Rarity's reply, then back to Ponyville for a quick nap before the party! Oh Celestia, the things I do for love...

The cross-eyed mare thought to herself as she made her third longest flight for the day.

***

The bells to Silver Siren Boutique chimed, and Silver-Stitch briskly approached the door. A tired Derpy was slumped over the counter with an equally elegant letter in hoof.

He grabbed the letter and tucked it inside his wing.

"Thank You so much Derpy!" he said eagerly.

"Sure... not... a problem." Derpy wheezed in between gasps of air, before promptly passing out.

"Oh you poor thing! Here allow me to take care of you, you've earned it." He insisted as he hoisted the blonde mare into his own back and brought her into his personal, immaculate and beautiful bathroom.

The bathtub alone was large enough to hold a party of ten and was furnished with the finest of precious metals. As he drew the bath for the exhausted mare, he decided to open the letter and read it.

'Hello I am Rarity Belle,

I would love to meet with you and see your line as well. My dear friend Fluttershy spoke highly of you and that you were in fact the friend of hers that taught her so much about the art of tailoring. It would be my pleasure to make your acquaintance! I cannot wait to meet you as well, Ciao!
yours truly, Rarity.'

As Silver-Stitch read these words, he could not help but to hoof-pump, followed by a silent "yes!" He then looked over to the bathtub and begin to add some herbal soap and realized that the tub had begun to overflow, "Oh, ponyfeathers!"

***

Derpy soon found herself in a warm, soothing bath tub. The fragrances invaded her nostrils and filled her with a relaxing aroma that also cleared some of her sinuses. Derpy looked around at the glorious bathroom in awe and wonder.

As she settled down and allowed the bath to ease the tension and sore muscles in her wings and back, she couldn't help but to talk aloud to herself.

"If this is the dream, I don't want to wake up. This feels so good. All this dream needs now is a loving, handsome, trustworthy and respectable stallion and my fantasy will be complete."

"Even if he's gay?"

The unexpected voice from behind caused her to fly up in surprise. Quickly she glanced behind her to see Silver- Stitch laughing to himself. Derpy let out a sigh of relief and she brought a hoof to her chest and closed her eyes.

"Geez, Silver! Don't scare me like that! Last thing I wanna do is get the pee scared out of me."

"Pee? You really are in a mommy mind set aren't you?" he asked jovially. 

"Speaking of being a mommy, how is your adorable little filly? And do you mind if I join you? It is my bathtub after all." He smirked. Derpy shook her head at his silliness.

"Of course, it'll be like when we were foals again." She answered playfully splashing a wing full of water at him.

"Oh is that so? Two can play at that game!" And he got into the tub and slashed two wingfulls of water at her at the same time. 

After a few minutes of splashing each other, the two settled down on opposite ends of the tub and began to chat idly, catching up on things and the like.

After some time had passed, the two decided to get ready to catch a train to Ponyville, Silver-Stitch insisted he pay for Derpy's train ticket, much to Derpy's chagrin, and convinced her to let him give her a makeover; complete with a simple, yet eye-catching dress of his own design during the time they would be on the train, waiting to arrive at their destination.

"Silver, why are you being so generous to me? Not that you weren't before, but you like him still as well... So, why help me?"
She eventually asked as the train came to halt at the Ponyville train station.

With a sigh and a forlorn expression, he replied, "Derpy sweetie, he made it very clear to me on that day that he wasn't into colts or even willing to experiment. I know for a fact that I would never win his heart. But I'm plenty happy to reignite our old friendship, that would be enough for me."

"But you! You've gone through so much pain and sadness. And if anything you deserve at least a great shot to impress him. Even if you don't become his special somepony, you at least tried. And as a plus you will look absolutely fabulous!"

"You are my friend, and I'll help you in anyway that I can. And also, I won't let you alone if you had a few drinks. I know how you had Dinky. I won't let anyone ever take advantage of you ever again as long as I'm around!" he swore to her as the two embarked on what was gearing up to be a wonderful evening.
> Chapter 6- Welcome to Ponyville!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Summerbug factor chapter 6: "Welcome to Ponyville!"


Summerbug awoke with a start to a sudden, loud rapping upon his hotel room door. As he sat in the bed, he took a few deep and calming breathes before making his way to the door. However the impatient voice of Rainbow Dash could be heard clearly through the door.

"Hey! Heeey! Summerbug! Hurry and open up the door! It's almost party time! C'mon! Hurry up and let me in!" 

Groggily he meandered over to the door and opened it up, revealing the anxious Rainbow maned pegasus with some sort of package under her wing.

"Now what? Wha-what's going on now Dash?" He asked through a yawn whilst rubbing the sleep dirt from out of his eyes.

"Were you asleep? How can you sleep knowing you have a party for you happening this afternoon?" She exclaimed.

"I was actually kind of hoping that was all just a dream..." He confessed.

"...Truth is that I've never been invited to a party; ever. I never had any friends really, and I was never really popular either. Not that I minded really. As a matter of fact I was all but unknown in Rockhaven, so I was even less popular there than in Cloudsdale technically." He blurted out thoughtlessly. Then he caught a reaction out of Rainbow Dash he didn't expect. It was as if she realized something, then began to contort her face into a semi-angry one.

"Wait a minute, you...were in Rockhaven, that rock farming town in the middle of nowhere...this whole time!" She mildly seethed, confusing Summerbug.

"Yeah, why? Why do you seem so angry now?" He questioned.

Rainbow Dash tromped her way into his room, bucking the door shut and started to advance on him.

"Do you have any idea how your friends from Cloudsdale felt after you vanished that day? How hard they had it?" She began. 

"What in Equestria are you going about? I had to move away! If my mom and I hadn't, we'd've been homeless and at the mercy of my worthless, abusive father!" He snapped back, not realizing that he shared more about his family life than he cared too. He started fighting back tears from resurfacing memories. This caught Rainbow off guard, and her demeanor began to shift to one of sympathy. 

"So you don't know then, about the rumors." She replied apologetically.

Wiping the tears forming at the corners of his eyes, he asked, "What rumors?"

"After you suddenly left, a rumor began that you had died in a freak accident that destroyed your old home and that your dad was rushed to the hospital. Fluttershy tracked  the whole thing and knows more about the details then I do. But the thing is that the whole school thought you had been killed in the accident or something. It's really far-fetched looking back on it now, but everypony was talking about it. So it was just a freaky coincidence that your place was destroyed the same day you moved away then." She acknowledged.

"I'm sorry, I was just upset. After everything that happened this morning and seeing you again and remembering stuff from back then, especially that, and then hearing that you lived in Pinkie's old neighborhood when everypony thought the worst had happened, it just was a bit of an overload. I'm not even sure why I even got so worked up about it." She explained, fidgeting a bit nervously. 
For what seemed like hours the two sat there in awkward silence before Summerbug decided to look at her again. The expression she wore seemed like one of confusion and uncertainty. 

"Was there anything else you felt I need to know." He asked timidly. When Dash looked to him as he spoke, something about his demeanor made her blush ever so slightly. 

"Well, the thing is...Fluttershy was really hurt by the whole ordeal. It really hurt me seeing her hurt. I care a lot about her, and well, some of it made me really mad inside. I don't like seeing her feeling so much sadness." Dash added, feeling her face heat up more just for thinking about Fluttershy.

After a few more moments had passed, Summerbug decided it was his time to talk.

"I'm sorry I snapped at you, it was unintentional. Like you had said earlier, seeing everypony I know from Cloudsdale again after all this time has put me on edge too. It's like I'm being forced to face my demons. When I was first offered this job, I jumped at the opportunity and was so excited to show off my talents. But I never imagined that it would turn into a trip down memory lane. It's all so overwhelmingly stressful to me and it's only been half a day." He replied, throwing his hooves up in frustration. 

"So you never had any friends or been to a party? And you never really had a normal life either?" She asked.

"Right, so I haven't got a clue on how to even go about making friends. Truthfully, I never really cared much to have any. My only real passions were art, video games and books. Having friends seemed like nothing more than a distraction from what truly made me happy." He confessed, now feeling terrible about how that must have sounded. 

"I can get that, but you should still have a small group of friends who you'll really trust! I'm the same way when I comes to my training and stunts, but if I didn't have my best friends to cheer me on and support me, I probably never would have won the young flyer's competition or even get into the Wonderbolts Academy. And I'm sure if you'd talk to Twilight or Rarity, they could help you learn how to not act weird around other ponies." Dash told Summerbug.

"You mean like, social cues?" He questioned. Dash just shrugged and said, "I guess, whatever that means."

Summerbug face-hoved. 

"Come to think of it, you and Twilight might actually have a lot to talk about, since you read stuff too."

"Speaking of which, did you manage to get in your 'fly time'?" He asked.

"Oh yeah! It was great, but she still has a lot to learn before she can be half as awesome as me!" She boasted.

"And speaking of being awesome, here, I got something for you." She said as she hoofed the package to Summerbug, but held her gaze on him. Summerbug felt his face grow warm under the pressure of her  gaze as he, now gingerly, accepted the package.

"Why are you staring at me like that?" He asked nervously.

"I may not be a fashion buff like Rarity, but you need a bit of a makeover. You need to be...twenty percent cooler." She replied bluntly.

"So why did you give me a package? What's it for?" He asked as a faint blush crept across Rainbow's cheeks.

"Because I wanted to! Besides, you look so plain and boring. You need something to help define you, to kinda give you that...edgy, artsy, cool guy kind of look. So there...from me...t-to you." She stammered as she looked everywhere else but to Summerbug.

"Thanks, I guess." He replied with uncertainty. Slowly he began to unwrap the package revealing a horseshoe box.

"Umm-"

"Look inside you doofus!" She answered awkwardly.

"Okay..."

As he opened the shoebox and looked inside, Dash watched in anticipation, as if to gauge a reaction. Inside was a wide leather bracelet with custom art etched into it of neighsian dragons intertwined in either combat or something else entirely, he couldn't be sure. There was also a silver chain necklace and a new, top-of-the-line, brand name Dj-pon3 portable music player, complete with equally high end headphones. 

Summerbug was speechless. These gifts were outrageous!

"Th-these? I can't! I just can't...they're way, way too expensive! I'm not sure I can accept these, the music player alone runs about 500 bits!" He stammered. As he went to give them back, the box of accessories was shoved back into his chest.

"Dude, relax. Keep them, I want  you to have them, they're gifts. And not to brag, but I'm loaded. This was chump change. I really don't let a lot of ponies know that because I don't wanna be treated differently because I have money, but for who I am. And what I am, is awesome. So strap on your new gear and let's get to that party!"


***


About fifteen minutes later the two were on their way to Sugarcube Corner. Dash made it a point to muss up Summerbug's mane with a small amount of gel to give it a semi-wild look.

As they drew closer to the shop, Summerbug noticed the bubbly pink mare, called Pinkie Pie, chatting with a couple by the looks of it. She was bouncing up and down whilst pantomiming what appeared to be a very entertaining story. As Summerbug drew nearer, he caught a glimpse of the couple, and his jaw dropped.

"Hey Pinkie! The party guest is hear and...Oh my Celestia..." Rainbow began, then noticed that the gorgeous blond mare with a steel grey coat was actually Derpy! She felt heat across her cheeks as she stood dumbfounded at the glorious mare. Summerbug was likewise in a similar state of shock, but not only because of how beautiful Derpy was, but also because of the colt she was with. He was a very androgynous colt, and if it weren't for that unmistakable fuchsia scarf, fancy glasses and that definitive cutie mark, Summerbug might have even thought he WAS a mare. His age-old, long-forgotten friend; Silver-Stitch.

Everything seemed to slow in that very moment, as if time itself chose to be absent. Pinkie turned around as a huge smile began to spread across her face as Dash and Bug approached the would-be couple.


***


Silver-Stitch could hardly believe his eyes. His beloved had grown into one of the most handsome stallions he had ever laid eyes upon, and his face grew warm as Summerbug drew ever closer. He felt a tear well in one of his eyes, and in an instant he dashed over to him and gave him a hug with fifteen years worth of love.

"S-Summerbug! Oh sweet Celestia how I missed you!" He cried holding on tightly to his old friend, and to his utter shock and surprise, received an embrace in kind.

"I...I missed you too Silver-Stitch. I'm so very, very sorry how everything went down the last time we saw each other. Can you ever forgive me?" Summerbug repented, tears also swelling within his own eyes as he nuzzled Silver's neck in an attempt to hide his tears from onlookers.

Silver-Stitch could not believe what was happening, it was as if a dream had come true. He never expected to see Summerbug again, nor would he have ever imagined how much more open he was being. The old Summerbug would NEVER have returned an embrace or even consider nuzzling another pony, let alone a colt. It was like Summerbug was an entirely different pegasus.

After a few moments Summerbug broke free of the hug. Silver-Stitch, however, was very well aware of some of the looks they were garnishing. With an awkward cough and return of his regal demeanor, he said, "Yes, well, umm...Hello again! Old friend."

> Chapter 7- Recreation or Romance? pt. 1
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	"Silver-Stitch...H-how are you? You look great! I'm...I'm sorry. I can't believe how long its been..." Summerbug finally spoke, raising a hoof to Silver's chest. "...and you still wear that damn fuchsia scarf! If I hadn't known it to be yours, I'd've thought you were a mare! But then again you'd have loved that, Wouldn't you?" Summerbug jested. Silver batted his eyelashes and cooed "Maybe..." Suggestively, returning the jest in kind. Despite the obviousness of their playful little act, Derpy couldn't help but to feel mildly betrayed, as well as mildly aroused.

"Guy's, please. It's starting to get a little gay up in here." Rainbow Dash interrupted jokingly, masking her own insecurity. 

"Sorry, Dash. I couldn't resist!" Summerbug replied with a smile...a smile! 

Something about his smile made Rainbow Dash feel weak in the knees. This did not go unnoticed by Derpy, as she herself felt that way around him, but to see the normally brash and arrogant Element of Loyalty act like a love-struck filly was truly unexpected. It became very clear in her mind that no matter what she did, she could not compete, certainly not with Rainbow Dash, nor with Silver-Stitch, not with anypony. Feeling despair starting to creep its way into her belly, she decided it might be best if she went to the beverage table and pour a few cups for herself.

"Hey, if anypony needs me, I'll be by the punch. I'm...feeling thirsty..." She told the others.

"But we had a snack on the train. Are you feeling well, honey?" Silver inquired and put a hoof to her brow, which she gently removed.

"Yes, I'm fine Silver. Talk to you later Rainbow, Summerbug!" The usually bubbly mare replied.

And before Silver-Stitch could get another word out, she was hastily retreating to the snack bar.

"She always like that?" Summerbug asked.

"Oh, always! Derpy has always been a bit odd around other ponies. She probably needs a few moments to collect herself." Rainbow Dash, unintentionally cutting off what Silver-Stitch was about to say. 
After a momentary pause, he began again.

"No, that's not it. Something is bothering her." Silver-Stitch corrected. "Excuse me Bug-a-boo, I need to make sure she's okay. We'll catch up later, k?" Silver called back as he chased after the blond pegasus. 

"But how did you know I was...here?" Summerbug trailed off.

Just as he was turning around to face Dash again, he suddenly found himself pressing noses together with a hyper pink pony.

"Oh! That's an easy one to answer!"  Pinkie began; her breath smelled of peppermint and frosting.

"Well I overheard you and dashie talking about your foalhood in school and I was so sad that you had an absolutely terrible day and how you had to leave because, reasons. So I thought 'Pinkie, we need to invite Silver-Stitch!' because you two were, like, the bestest friends ever! But then you had a really bad day and totally shot him down and I don't like seeing friends fight or be sad or hurt. But then I was like 'I don't really know about him other than he was your super-special-somepony admirer.' And then my pinkie sense went off just as Derpy was about to crash into the tree right next to me. Then it hit me! Summerbug, Silver, Dashie, Derpy and Flutters all went to the same school in Cloudsdale! Together! So I asked Derpy if she knew any Silver-Stitches, and sure enough she did! So I wrote up a quick invite for him and now that you're all here we can be the bestest-best-lifelong friends!" She finished in what seemed to be one breath, not paying any mind to the glowing red blush Summerbug was exuding. 

"Pinkie! You’re way to close to his face! Any closer and you'd be kissing the guy!" Dash exclaimed, her own face sporting a crimson tint.

"Nah, I know better than to get involved with Summerbug Dashie!" Pinkie cheerfully replied before hopping away as Rainbow Dash called after her, "WHAT'S THAT SUPPOSED TO MEAN?!"

“She doesn’t really have a sense of personal space does she?” Summerbug asked Rainbow Dash nervously. 

“No, not really; but that’s just Pinkie. Although I wish I knew what she meant with that last comment. She can be so weird sometimes.” Rainbow sighed.

“Whatever. Say Summer, why don’t you follow me to meet with the others? I’m sure Rarity and Fluttershy are eager to get to know you more, and you’d be getting to know them better now than you did earlier. C’mon!” Rainbow suggested, grabbing his hoof and pulling him along.

As she did so, he began to feel elation begin to bloom in his chest as he held her hoof and drank in the look on her face. She was smiling, and it was the an innocent and joyous smile.
> Chapter 8 - Recreation or Romance? pt.2
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	The party had just begun and quietly, Derpy dressed in some of the best clothing she had ever gotten and with a makeover that really made her stand out, stood by the punch bowl fighting back feelings of betrayal and sadness. She hadn’t noticed some of the stallions that were hitting on her and she didn’t care in that moment. They were just being boys, right? Boys joke and teased like that all the time, right? She pondered, desperately trying to make sense of the small, suggestive moment the two shared. Then she felt a hoof gently rest on her shoulder, a bit startled she glanced over and saw Silver-Stitch looking at her with concern in his eyes.

“Honey, what’s wrong?” he asked innocently. She struggled for a moment to piece words together before spitting out, “How could you? You assured me you wouldn’t try to get with him.” She accused, tears beginning to stain her cheeks. 

It became very clear what was going on and he felt ashamed of himself. “I wasn’t, Derpy. To be honest I didn’t expect him to joke like that, and I couldn’t resist teasing back in kind. If I’d have known that it would upset you I’d have restrained myself, but I wasn’t trying to get with him, it was just acting. And I’m sorry I hurt you, I truly and genuinely am.” He replied, wiping a stray tear from the corner of his eye. Derpy felt his sincerity and mentally bucked herself for letting her mind wander into such territory. If he was planning to swoop in and take Summerbug, Silver would not have put in so much effort into beautifying her. 

“You’re, you’re okay…I was just overreacting, and I’m sorry too, Silver. I know you really missed him and I shouldn’t have gone there. Let’s get to know the ‘new’ Summerbug together, okay?” she said, putting her own hoof on his. He gave her a small smile and a gentle nuzzle, which she affectionately returned.

“Yes, lets.” He replied, and two trotted together in the direction where Rainbow dash and Summerbug last were. 

“Where did they go?” Silver-Stitch questioned. Derpy shrugged in response.

“There they are!” Derpy said as she noticed Rainbow Dash hovering a few feet away, and quickly the two made their way over to the small cluster of ponies around them. As they neared closer, the two overheard a conversation taking place.

“Rainbow, darling, for somepony who lacks some fashion sense I must admit that the quick makeover you gave Summerbug does compliment him. However I’d not have mussed up his mane. It would look better parted down the center.” The white unicorn mare said.

“I think this makes him look cooler, a little less mild-mannered.” Rainbow Dash argued.

“ I…I think he looked fine before. But, if he likes it, that’s fine too.” Fluttershy added softly, her eyes darting to Summerbug, then away again as she timidly pawed at the floor.

Fashion was not Summerbug’s forte, so the overall conversation was going in one ear and out the other, that’s when he noticed Silver-Stitch and Derpy approach. He hadn’t noticed before, but she was all done up and she looked very attractive. It wasn’t long before his mind wondered into more affectionate thoughts, and he felt his face grow warm. I’ll need to remember to compliment her.	

“There you guys are. Are yous alright?” Summerbug questioned suddenly noticing Derpy and Silver’s glassy eyes.

“Yes, we just needed to discuss something important real quick. So who are these fine mares before you? I know Fluttershy (hello sweetie!), but who is this fabulous unicorn?” Silver asked, trying to ease any tension.

“I am Rarity, it’s a pleasure to make you’re acquaintance.” She replied

“Oh. My. Goodness! I’m Silver-Stitch, we communicated earlier via letter.” He replied ecstatically.

“Ah! Well a fair hello indeed! I look forward to seeing you’re line. It’s wonderful to meet you!” Rarity added; a light blush upon her face. What a handsome stallion. She thought to herself. And quite fashionable too!

Fluttershy noticed the way Rarity studied the blond manned and brown coated stallion and leaned in to whisper something into her ear. Rarity suddenly blushed harder and looked a little downtrodden.

“Oh! I almost forgot to mention! There is a motel not too far from here. It’s the one Buggy is staying at! And since Canterlot is pretty far away, you should think about staying the night!” Pinkie told Silver as she appeared suddenly from behind the table. 

“Oh…Well, um, thanks, Pinkie.” Silver-Stitch stammered.

“Sure thing, Jelly-bean!”

“So what’s going on now?” Summerbug questioned, somewhat confused at the sequence of events that had just transpired.

“Well, you see Darling, Pinkie sent an invite to Silver-Stitch here and as fate would have it, Derpy here mentioned to him that I’ll be holding a fashion show this week. So he sent me a letter asking, if he too, could display his own line alongside mine. I told him would be thrilled with the idea. So here we are.” Rarity summarized for Summerbug.

“Indeed! And after hearing that YOU, Summerbug, were going to be doing cloud sculptures for this social event, I simply had to be a part of it!” Silver interjected with glee. Then with a more serious and gentle tone added, “And just to set the record straight, it’s not in any way to seduce you. After we pegasai heard about what happened to your home in Cloudsdale, many of us thought the worst. I am truly happy that you’re alive and well.” He finished as his eyes began to water. 

“I’m really sorry I didn’t stay in contact, I just wanted to start over and forget everything. I know how you pinned after me for years, and that I should how known how you would react. Maybe sometime I’ll share everything…but not right now. I’m so happy to see you again, really. If you would like, you can come to my room and catch up little bit, does that sound good?” Summerbug offered, giving Silver a playful punch in the shoulder in an attempt to cheer him up. 

“Of course, and I forgive you.” Silver replied, a smile crossing his muzzle. “That would be wonderful. Oh! That reminds me, I have some things for you!” Then began to dig through his saddlebags and pulled out several neatly wrapped packages.

“Not you too, Silver…It’s bad enough that Rainbow Dash got me things, you didn’t need to get me things also…” Summerbug almost whined.

“Oh, nonsense! I have, literally, 16 Years’ worth of gifts for you! Missed birthdays, missed Hearts in Hooves days and of course missed Hearth’s Warming gifts!” Silver-Stitch insisted. 

As he rummaged through his bags, Summerbug turned his attention to Derpy, who had hardly said anything since he got the party. 

“Hey Derpy, I-I just wanted to say that you…you look very beautiful…” he told her sincerely, feeling warmth creep into his cheeks. She wore an elegant dress made out of silk, and her man looked professionally done, it was combed one side, curling gently at the tip, while the rest was braided and hung over her shoulder with ribbons woven into the braid like accents, which ended in fancy little bows. 

Derpy’s heart skipped a beat as she drank in his compliment. Blushing heavily, she replied “T-thank you.” 

“Seriously, you’re buckin’ hot!” Rainbow Dash interjected. “I never thought I’d ever see you in fancy dress ever again. I think the last time I saw you in a dress was at the Starlight Dance. You’re seriously looking hot, and that’s coming from me.” Dash added, deepening Derpy’s blush.

As Rainbow turned her gaze to Summerbug, and suddenly felt a pang of jealousy pluck at her heartstrings as he smiled sweetly at Derpy. W-What do I care? He’s just a friend…I don’t even really know him all that well. So what if he flirts with other ponies, it’s not like I like him like that or anything… Dash thought to herself. But then why did she feel the need to get him those gifts? It’s not like they were really expensive or anything (to her), but she still found herself struggling with this odd sensation she got around him. They had only just met that morning, but it felt so much longer to her.

“Aha!” Silver-Stitch cried out, as he began pressing the gifts he had into Summerbug’s arms, catching him off guard.

“Think of these as the first few in a long chain of gifts to come, and this time I’ll make sure we stay in touch.” He rebutted with a grin.

“Thank you…” Summerbug sighed, and reluctantly began to unwrap them. Inside he found a beautiful scarf, blue with gold trim. In fancy writing was Summerbug’s name stitched in gold near one of the ends. Underneath it was something that made his heart ache. It was Summerbug’s Hoof-made letter to Rainbow Dash from that terrible day from so long ago. He didn’t know how, or why, but it was refurbished and actually looked better than before. Upon further inspection, he noticed that it was literally sewn back together with a very fine thread. The Stitch work was amazing and actually managed to enhance the overall piece. 

“Y-you kept this? And fixed it? All this time, all these years…you took that shredded love letter and..and…” Tears began to force their way out, landing softly on the ground. He couldn’t explain why, but this touched him so deeply, so profoundly, that he suddenly felt weak. He couldn’t fight back the tears any longer, he had fought them for years, and now they were going to finally win. His emotions rolled out like a river, and he felt three sets of hooves embrace him. “…thank you…” he managed to choke out. After a few moments, he pulled himself together and wiped his face, then looked around at all his friend’s faces, both old and new, or soon to be.

“Thank you. Thank you all so very much.” He said shakily.

“You’re very welcome.” Silver replied.

“Pshhh, don’t sweat it!” Dash Chimed in.

“As long I made you super happy, that’s all the thanks I need!” Pinkie piped in.

And with another group hug, the group broke and began to meander about the party.

> Chapter 9- Love, Lust and Discord pt. 1
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

 For the next few hours, Summerbug met with the rest of Rainbow’s best friends. One by one he met and conversed with all six of them, including Applejack and Twilight Sparkle.

He found Twilight interesting and adorably nerdy, and as a princess he did his best to show his honor of being in the presence of royalty, much to Twilight’s chagrin. Before he could speak further with her about various book series, Rainbow Dash asked to speak in private with Twilight and told Summerbug she’d be back in a bit. He nodded in acknowledgement and decided to see what the others were up to. It was about this time when Pinkie decided to play some slow dance music, after all what pony DIDN’T want to snuggle up with their best friend or a special somepony and have a dance?

By the time ten o’clock rolled around, he was beginning to feel very tired. Many of the other guests had begun to head home as well, but Rainbow Dash refused to let Summebug leave until he had at least a bottle Sweet Apple Acres Reserve (just to see how well he could handle it), which he gingerly accepted and drank.

Alcohol was, after all, simply a reminder of how it could potentially ruin lives, unlock the evil in a pony’s heart and steal away their hard earned bits. While Rainbow was downing her seventh bottle, it was quite clear that Rainbow Dash had planned to have a hearty night of drunken revelry. However, whilst in her drunken state, she had made several intimate passes at him; shocking the others over her level of boldness. Yes, Dash was brash and forcefully assertive on a fairly regular basis, but this was taking it a step too far, and he wasn’t really comfortable with the idea. 

Summerbug had almost felt bad turning her down, but taking advantage of an inebriated mare was not a part of his moral beliefs, nor did he want her do something she’d regret in the morning. Mercifully, Fluttershy decided to take Rainbow dash home, and apologized profusely for her friend’s behavior.

“But I donwannago… th’prty’s jus getting’ started…” She slurred as her hindquarter’s writhed and she rubbed her cheek against Summerbugs’s in an affectionate nuzzle; which caught him off guard.

“Ah… I think it’s time for you to go home and sleep Rainbow…ehehe…” Summerbug said, gently pushing her back as heat rose to his cheeks.

“Only if I c’n go home with y-”

“Come along now darling, you have to be at work in the morning.” Rarity interjected with a nervous chuckle as she enveloped Dash with the glow of her magic and began to move with her toward the door as Rainbow pawed at the ground half-heartedly trying to grasp hold of anything that would help her crawl back, but to no avail.

“But Rarity, I wanna do h-” SLAM!

Rarity slammed shut the door to Sugarcube corner and waved a goodbye wave at them through the window as they passed.

“I’m very sorry Summerbug, you’ll have to forgive her. When she gets to drinking she can be a bit of a hoof-ful.” Fluttershy apologized softly. “Although, she usually doesn’t get so…physical; unless it’s a brawl.” 

“It’s okay…no harm, no foul. I hadn’t known she was such a…heavy drinker…” Summerbug replied, pushing back unpleasant foal-hood memories. 

“Well, the last time ah saw her drink like that was the night b’fore the young flyer’s competition a while back ago. She must be mighty nervous about somethin’.”

Appljack chimed in. “Ah’m sure whatever is that she’ll get through it, always does.” She finished, taking a pull off of her own bottle of hard cider.

“Well, in any case it’s getting late. Thank you for the party Pinkie, and it was also nice to meet you all, hopefully we can get together again sometime.” He said, finishing off the only bottle he had all night. “C’mon Silver, I’ll show you to the Motel.” he offered kindly. 

“Oh, thank you! I’m feeling a bit buzzed, that is some strong drink, Ho-boy! I think I’ll stick to my wine and daiquiri’s next time. Derpy, honey, your home is on the way right? Bug-a-boo and I will gladly escort you home, isn’t that right Summer?” Silver-Stitch prompted.

“Oh? Yeah, of course, sure thing!” Summer replied, Looking at him a little inquisitively.
“Oh, okay. Um…thank you guys.” Derpy answered, snapping out of her reverie. 

"Goodnight everypony!" Derpy, Silver and Summer said whilst waving farewell, as the trio left Sugarcube  Corner and went on there way.