//------------------------------// // Symphony No. 6 ('Pastoral') Op. 68: Matchmakers // Story: The Disney Chronicles III: Fantasia // by Dinodisneylover1 //------------------------------// Symphony of Sorcery Glen After their failed attempt to retrieve the missing sheet music, our heroes travel through the forested glen. A place showing the true beauty of nature like the rest of this realm. Twilight had a hunch the sheet music didn’t want to be caught, if there’s much more to do and explore in this realm. She wasn’t wrong, as some of the inhabitants would need help… Soon then they think. “Ugh!” Rarity complained. “All this walking through forests, deserts and jungles really makes me miss my weekly spa trips. “There’s more in life than just the spa, Rarity,” Applejack said. “A lady must always look perfect, darling,” Rarity argued. “No matter what the cost.” Applejack rolled her eyes and shook her head in defeat. “Ah’m tellin’ ya,” Applejack whispers to Jiminy, on her head. “When she’s like this, she really gets on your nerves sometimes.” “Maybe you should just ignore her,” Jiminy advised. “Ignore her? She does this a lot,” Rainbow said. “Her whining is so annoying, you can’t think. She even drives dogs crazy.” “Excuse me!” Rarity scowled. “I’m not whining, I’m complaining! Those mutts left me no choice. They were unhygienic, their tunnels were filthy, and their breath makes me nauseated when I breathe. I mean, honestly, is it a crime to bathe once a week? They could all do with a good round of soap and water. And some toothpaste to get rid of that nasty breath…” As she complains, without realizing it, Vinyl and Octavia give each other a weird look. Vinyl decides to put her headphones on and listen to her beats. She also gave a pair to Octavia with her cutie mark on it. The grey Earth pony smiles, placing them on her head to listen to her own music. “And another thing…” Rarity continued. “WHAT?!” Everypony asked, irritated. “I’m terribly thirsty,” Rarity said. “Can we stop for a quick drink of water, please?” “Rarity, we just fell from a waterfall,” Rainbow said, bluntly. “You really want to drink water?” “Actually, ah would like a drink myself,” Applejack said, sheepishly. “Anypony else?” Twilight asked. A few raised their hooves as Twilight counted. “Okay, let’s stop walking and drink from our flasks.” “Or…” Fluttershy began. “We could save our flasks for later and drink from the river over there.” Fluttershy just happens to point to a river near a small waterfall. “Oh… Right,” Twilight said, sheepishly. “Fine by me,” Applejack said, approaching the river. “We can even refill our flasks while we’re here.” “You know, if anypony’s in the mood,” Pinkie advised. “We could take a quick swim.” “Pardon my cleanliness,” Octavia said. “But I’m not drinking where we’re swimming.” “You are right on the dot, Octavia,” Rarity agreed. “Besides, are you sure the water is hygienic?” “Rarity, it’s fresh water,” Jiminy points out. “There’s nothing wrong with it.” Everypony who needed to drink lower their heads and drank from the water. Spike scooped some with his claw and brought it to his lips. Rarity was still unsure until she finally lowers her head for a drink, closing her eyes to enjoy the moment. She didn’t notice a purple flower floating her way. When it got close to her face, something slowly peeked from the water with the flower on its head. When the white unicorn opens her eyes, she immediately sees the new creature and screams with fright. The moment the Equestrians heard her scream, they stood in a fighting position. Twilight’s horn glows while the rest prepare their hooves, claws and hands. The creature was frightened and lowered herself in the water until only her eyes and hair were visible. It was then our heroes took a better look at what spooked Rarity. They immediately lower their guard, for they’ve seen a creature like this before. “Well, I’ll be,” Jiminy smiled. “It’s a… It’s a…” Spike began, finding the right word. “It’s a human!” Twilight finished, amazed. The female creature with purple hair slowly backed away. “Oh my,” Fluttershy said. “I think we startled her.” “I think Rarity scared her the most,” Rainbow remarked. “I beg your pardon,” Rarity defended herself. “She frightened me first. I would never scare anypony on purpose.” “Right…” Rainbow said. The creature backed a bit more. “Oh, please don’t go away,” Twilight said. “We didn’t mean to scare you.” “We’re friendly,” Pinkie added. “We come in peace.” “Seriously?” Spike asked. “We’re starting with that cliché?” “It’s okay,” Twilight reassured. “We won’t hurt you.” The creature came closer, rising a bit above the water with her arms covering her chest. “Who… Are you? You look different than the unicorns and pegasi I’ve seen.” “Yeah, we’re from somewhere else,” Rainbow said. “I’m Twilight Sparkle,” Twilight introduced. “And these are my friends.” The human creature seemed less scared, slowly dropping her arms. The Equestrians were a bit surprised at what she uncovered. “Oh my!” Octavia blushed in embarrassment. “Took the words outta my mouth,” Vinyl said, tipping her glasses. “Better cover my eyes in respect,” Jiminy said, covering his eyes. “That’s a strange spot for udders,” Pinkie said. “They look like balloons.” Wide-eyed, Rarity quickly covers Spike’s eyes as he tries to break loose. “Hey! What gives?!” Spike said. “This is not meant for the eyes of a baby dragon… Whatever those are,” Rarity said. “The girl needs clothes, stat!” “Rarity, do I have to tell you that ‘ponies don’t normally wear clothes?’” Applejack asked, reminding her. “She’s not a pony, she’s a human,” Rarity corrects. “That’s completely different, Applejack.” Applejack rolled her eyes by that, as the creature twiddled her fingers. “Actually, I’m half-human,” The creature answered. Everypony raised their eyebrows, as the creature slowly emerged from the water, towering over them and shook herself dry. The Equestrians gasped. Instead of seeing the lower half of a human, she had the lower half of a horse. Not only were they surprised, but also in fright. They’ve seen a creature like her before, but it didn’t bring them good memories. Rarity drops her arms, allowing Spike to look at her lower half and gasp. “She’s half-horse,” Spike said. “A centaur!” Twilight corrected. “Well, this is an unexpected turn of events,” Jiminy said. “Actually, I’m a ‘centaurette’ since I’m female,” The creature corrected. “But there are males too.” The Equestrians were still staring, not a word came out of their mouths. “Um, is something wrong?” The centaurette asked. “Something in my teeth?” “Twilight?” Jiminy asked, noticing their reactions. “Guys?” All of them, but mostly Twilight, were stuck in horrible memories of the time before they got their own castle. She remembered that brutal fight, her friends captured and held hostage with Equestria almost destroyed… All because of him. Everything would be lost forever if they haven’t found the keys and gain the Power of the Rainbow. (Stop at 0:26) “Twilight!” Jiminy yelled. Suddenly, Twilight and the others broke free of their trance as Jiminy came through. “Are you okay?” “I’m… Fine, Jiminy,” Twilight said, unconvincingly. “You don’t look fine,” Jiminy said, suspicious. “I can tell something’s bothering you and the others.” “It’s nothing, really,” Twilight insists. “Twilight… It’s not good to bottle things up,” Jiminy advised. “Especially from your friends.” Twilight sighs sadly in defeat, she knew he was right. “You see, Miss Centaurette…” She began. “You can call me Violet if you want,” The centaurette smiled. “Okay. You see, Violet, you remind us of somepony we know… Somepony bad.” The centaurette’s smile disappears, replaced with a questionable look. “You wouldn’t happen to be related to Tirek, would you?” Rainbow asked. “Who?” Violet asked, confused. “Tirek? The guy Spike mentioned?” Jiminy asked. “The centaur that destroyed your library and almost your entire home?” “Yes, him,” Twilight said, shedding a single tear. “My goodness, I had no idea,” Violet said, kneeling to their level. “I’m so sorry.” “You have nothing to apologize for,” Twilight assured. But the centaurette still felt sorry for the tragedy they’ve been through. She caresses Twilight’s head to comfort her. “I may not know who Tirek is,” Violet said. “But I’d never do things like that to you.” A small smile appears on the lavender unicorn/alicorn, feeling the Centaurette is someone they can trust. “Guess you should learn that even though she’s from the same species, doesn’t mean they think or do the same things he did,” Jiminy said. “You’re right, Jiminy,” Twilight said, wiping her tears away. “We’re sorry, Violet.” “It’s alright,” Violet said. “You do look exhausted. Why don’t you come with me and meet my friends? They’ll be delighted to meet you.” “We are a bit tired,” Vinyl admits. “We’ve been trying to catch some sheet music and we fell from a waterfall.” “It’s not so far,” The centaurette assures, standing up. “Just follow me.” Violet walks in front while the Equestrians follow her. It took only a few seconds to reach another part of the river. There, more females were playing in the water or washing themselves beneath a waterfall. Each one had a different color of hair and skin and they all were beautiful in their own unique way. One of them steps out of the water onto dry land, shaking herself dry. No doubt all the females were centaurettes. The ones on the land wore flowers and leaves to cover their chest. But they weren’t the only creatures, there were also little naked babies with wings. These flying babies helped the centaurettes with their hair and make-up. Two of them brushed a yellow centaurette’s hair, three others braid a pink one’s tail while she relaxed with her hand in the water. One centaurette files her fingernails with a cattail, while a small black one used a cattail to scrub the tall one’s hooves. Another centaurette had her face powdered by one of the flying babies, while another uses a berry as lipstick to put on the lips of a black-haired centaurette. The girl looks at herself in a mirror, smiling at her reflection, while the little winged baby looks in the mirror while eating the berry he used. “Are those your friends?” Rarity asked. “They sure are,” Violet nodded. “They look simply gorgeous,” Rarity complimented. “And lovely,” Fluttershy added. (Pause at 1:11) “Hey, girls!” Violet announced to every centaurette, drawing their attention. “We have visitors.” The centaurettes talk among each other in surprise, especially when they see the newcomers. The Equestrians stood in the middle of the group. “Hello, everybody,” Twilight greeted. “My name is Twilight Sparkle, the Princess of Friendship. These are my friends Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Fluttershy, Spike, Vinyl Scratch, Octavia Melody and Jiminy Cricket. I know what you’re thinking; yes, we look different than the unicorns and pegasi in this land. That’s because we’re ponies from another world. Spike’s a dragon and Jiminy is… Well, a cricket.” Again, the centaurettes talk among each other, curious of these beings. “We mean no harm,” Applejack assured. “We just came here searching for missing sheet music.” “And to protect your world against bad guys,” Rainbow added. “If any at all,” Octavia said. “And to visit,” Pinkie added. The centaurettes became fascinated in these equines, paying close attention. “They must be the cutest creatures I’ve ever seen,” A red-haired centaurette said. “Their coats are so beautiful,” A blue one said. “Such gorgeous colors.” “Speaking of colors, check out their manes,” A white-haired centaurette said, touching and admiring Rainbow’s mane. “Especially this one. I wish I had beautiful colors in my hair, even for one day.” The black-haired centaurette with purple skin looked at Spike and lifted him up. “Aw, you’re so adorable,” She said, rubbing her nose with his. Then she cradles him in her arms like a baby, tickling his tummy with her finger. “Who’s a cute little dragon? You are. Yes, you are.” Spike couldn’t help but laugh, enjoying what the centaurette was doing. The others either pet the Equestrians or admired their manes and colors while introducing themselves. Even Jiminy received attention from these lovely ladies. “Now, this is a moment I’ll never forget,” The cricket smiled. “Where exactly do you come from?” One centaurette asked. “We’re from Equestria,” Spike answered, still in the arms of a centaurette. “It’s far away from here, like very far away.” “It’s similar to this world,” Fluttershy explained. “But with houses, castles and creatures you’ve never seen before.” “By the sound of it, Equestria must be beautiful,” A blond centaurette said. “Oh, it is,” Pinkie said. “Beautiful landscape, friendly inhabitants and lots of parties organized by Yours Truly.” “But it’s not always like that after what you told me, is it?” Violet asked. “What do you mean, Violet?” A pink centaurette asked. “They said their home was almost destroyed by an evil centaur named Tirek,” Violet said. The centaurettes and the winged babies gasp with fright. “Sweet Gaia!” One centaurette gasped. “I guess my appearance triggered some memories,” Violet said. “Making them think we’re related.” “Oh, you poor sweet things,” A blue centaurette said, resting a hand on her heart. “Yes, and I apologize for that,” Twilight said. “I realize now it’s impossible because you’re from different worlds. Princess Celestia did mention he had a gargoyle brother named Scorpan who became nice.” “Granted, we’ve never met him,” Rarity said. “But he sounds like a dear.” “How can a centaur and a gargoyle be siblings?” Jiminy asked, eager to know. “That question is beyond me as well,” Twilight admits. “With all the weird stuff in Equestria, we try not to think about it,” Rainbow adds. One of the flying babies flew towards the ponies. “Don’t you worry, the girls wouldn’t dream of harming anyone,” One flying baby spoke, in the same voice level as the fauns. “Neither would the boys.” Our heroes didn’t even notice these new creatures and couldn’t help but stare at their natural state. “Why aren’t they wearing pants?” Spike asked innocently. “I think you better cover Spike’s eyes again,” Pinkie whispered to her friends. “I’ll see if I can find some leaves.” “Who are you?” Rainbow asked the creatures. “What are you?” “Who are we?” One of them asked. “We’re cupids, though some call us cherubs. We’re followers of Aphrodite herself.” “Aphrodite?” Jiminy asked, surprised. “The Goddess of Love?” “That’s right!” One cupid nodded. “Is that the reason the girls look like they’re going on a date?” Rainbow asked. “That’s one way to say it,” A cupid said. “We want to make the centaurs and centaurettes fall in love so they become couples.” “Wouldn’t it be easier to shoot a love arrow in their butt?” Spike asked, sitting in the black-haired centaurette’s lap. “Spike!” Twilight said, thinking he insulted them. “What?” Spike asked. “Isn’t it true?” “Oh no, we don’t do such a thing,” One cupid assured. “Aphrodite wants us to let them experience love out of free will, so they know each other better.” “Aren’t you worried they’ll argue and fight if things don’t work out?” Fluttershy asked. “Not at all, not one teensy bit. Once two lovers make a special connection, they mate for life.” “Aw, that’s so sweet,” Rarity cooed. “Even if there’s a fight or disagreement between the two, we make sure they get along,” Another cupid said. “My sister-in-law, Princess Cadence, does that too whenever a couple argues,” Twilight smiled. “I’ve seen it for myself.” The centaurettes talk among other, smiling when Twilight said that. “She sounds amazing,” A pink centaurette said. “She’s the best,” Twilight said. “Even my brother, Shining Armor, is lucky to have her.” “I didn’t know you had a brother who’s married,” Jiminy said. “Don’t worry, I’ll introduce you to them one day,” Twilight said. “Maybe sooner than you think,” Pinkie winked. Pinkie Pie, shh! “Well, under those circumstances, I would be honored,” Jiminy replied. (Continue music) In the meantime, one cupid standing on a pedestal looked through a tree. “Hey guys!” He called out, pointing. “They’re coming!” All the cupids came over to look where the other was pointing. “Ooh! Let me look! Let me look!” Pinkie said. Pinkie, along with Rainbow Dash, Rarity and Vinyl Scratch, join the other cupids to watch. They see a male centaur blowing a horn, as if calling for someone. When he motions to follow, that’s when a whole group of them appear, all male gendered. They run through the glen, over a small river, on their way to the rendezvous point. “Wow!” Pinkie said, wide-eyed. “Oh my, they’re quite muscular,” Rarity blushed, checking them out. The cupids flew away from the observation spot, back toward the centaurettes. “Alright, ladies,” One cupid said. “The boys are on their way and I hope you’re ready.” Some of the centaurettes were nervous, while others were excited. Rainbow, Pinkie and Vinyl joined the others, while Rarity looked at the centaurs and then the centaurettes. “I’m very interested in how things turn out,” Fluttershy said. “I can’t believe I’m saying this,” Rainbow said. “But I am too.” “Hold on, darlings,” Rarity comes in. “You’re not planning to go out like that, are you?” “What do you mean?” One centaurette asked. “Aren’t we pretty?” “Oh no, no, no, no, no,” Rarity shook her hooves. “You’re very gorgeous. But I think something’s missing. Something that lures the boys’ attention. Something… Fabulous!” “Let me guess,” Rainbow said, bluntly. “It starts with an ‘f’ and ends with an ‘n’?” “Exactly!” Rarity said. “You know me so well.” The white unicorn looks around, smiling at the surroundings and gasps. “Idea!” She spoke, in a singsong voice. The centaurettes looked at each other in confusion. “You see, ladies, a girl needs more than good looks and charm to win a man’s heart. A girl needs personality and most of all…” As she speaks, Rarity’ horn glows, removing some flowers from a bush and some cloth. “… A girl needs style!” The cloth and flowers wrap in a tight whirl around a centaurette’s body. In a flash, the results are shown: The centaurette wore a blue shawl decorated with roses, complete with a necklace and her hair styled elegantly. “Ooh!!!” The centaurettes gasp, amazed. The centaurette, now looking like a model, checks herself out and smiles. “Aah!!!” The Equestrians react the same. Only at Mattress Giant!*Pause* Sorry, I couldn’t resist. “Wow, that’s amazing!” Jiminy said. “I thought this looked more like a job for the Blue Fairy. You really are talented, Rarity.” “Thank you, Jiminy,” Rarity replied, before facing the centaurettes. “What do you think, girls?” “It’s beautiful!” One centaurette said. “Can you make something like that for me?” “Me too?” Another one asked. The other centaurettes began to chatter eagerly. “Patience, darlings,” Rarity assured. “Everyone will have an ensemble that matches you.” Rarity brings her attention to the cupids. “Would you kindly lend me a hoof?” “With pleasure, Miss Rarity,” One cupid said. “Thank you, dear,” Rarity smiled. “So, what can we do?” Another cupid asked. “We need anything we can use to dress the centaurettes,” Rarity explained. “Leaves, flowers, whatever we can find.” “No problem, we can do that!” One cupid searched and found something that gave him an idea. He nudges a fellow cupid and points at what he saw. The other one smiles and nods. They flew toward the river and together, they pull out a lily pad from the water. The approach a white-haired centaurette and places it on her head like a hat, using two roots to tie it around her head. Rarity smiles with approval. “Exquisite idea!” Rarity said. “Keep up the good work.” She soon approaches a small black centaurette. “What was your name again?” “Sunflower,” The little centaurette answered. “Well Sunflower, how would you like to decorate some of their tails with flowers?” Rarity asked. “Oh, I’d love to,” Sunflower smiled. “I’ll start right away.” At the same time, another cupid pulled off a big piece of tree bark, rolling it up and places it on a pink-haired centaurette. A second cupid ties the top with small rope, flying around it till the rope is secure. The other places a bouquet of flowers in the tied-up bark, making it look like a hat. The centaurette couldn’t help but smile. Spike, Fluttersy and another cupid were busy with a red-haired centaurette. Her hair was tied in a bun and two doves land on her head, both of them stretched out one wing on each other. “Are you sure the doves can handle it?” Fluttershy asked. “Don’t worry,” The cupid assured. “They’ll be fine.” They examine the centaurette, judging her looks. “What do you personally think?” Spike asked the pair. The cupid scratched his head, then shook it. “No, it’s not good.” “I agree,” Spike nodded. “It doesn’t look too bad,” Fluttershy observed. “Maybe it needs a few improvements, perhaps a different look. Hmm… Mister and Miss Dove, would you mind trying a different pose?” With that said, the doves flew off the centaurette’s head, making her hair land on her shoulders. She struck a cute pose while the doves land on her head again in a different position. “Much better,” The cupid said. The little guy spread one of the doves' wings, making it look like the centaurette wore a hat too. “That’s more like it,” Spike approved, giving a thumbs up. “It’s truly lovely,” Fluttershy said. Rarity checked all the centaurettes and their different fashion styles. “Perfect!” She said, in singsong. “Now you’re ready!” She looks behind the same tree to see the centaurs arriving. “And by the looks of it, right on schedule.” Many centaurettes walk toward the tree to see what their future boyfriend looks like. Sunflower was busily decorating a tail with flowers, but the centaurette it belonged to rose up and walks toward the tree. Because of that, her tail whips and all the flowers fall off. Sunflower looks angry toward her, all that hard work for nothing. While the centaurettes peeked behind the tree, Sunflower decorated the tail again. “Would you like some help?” Pinkie offered. “Yes, please,” The little centaurette said. “Thank you.” “They all look so handsome,” The black-haired centaurette said. “I hope my future boyfriend gives me flowers the moment he sees me,” A blond centaurette said. “I hope mine treats me like a princess,” A pink-haired one said. “And takes me somewhere romantic.” “Wow, Rarity,” Applejack said. “Ya sure did a wonderful job. Look how happy and excited they are.” “Oh, pshaw, Applejack,” Rarity said. “The cupids deserve the most credit for coming up with such fabulous ideas. You know, despite everything that happened and…” By this point Rarity mumbled something, while motioning with her hoof. Don’t ask, let it speak for itself. “… The musical realms have inspired me to create a new fashion line,” Rarity continued. “I think I’ll call it ‘Symphony Chic’!” “That sounds amazing,” Twilight said. “What do you know?” Vinyl nudged Octavia. “Rarity found some new inspiration for clothes.” “I hope I’ll find mine,” Octavia said, unsure of herself. “Trust me, Tavi,” Vinyl said, wrapping an arm over her best friend. “You will.” The cupids flew over their heads, while the centaurettes followed. “Are you coming? We’re about to get started.” “Shall we, everypony?” Rarity asked her friends. The Equestrians nod and follow the centaurettes and cupids. In a few seconds, they reached another part of the glen, which was the rendezvous point for the centaurs and centaurettes to meet. They were all on top a few stairs behind a curtain made of red leaves. It didn’t take long for the centaurs to arrive, guided by a few more cupids who stop them in their tracks. The cupids go behind the curtain while the centaurs wait patiently. “Are they ready?” One cupid asked. “Yes,” Another replied. “With a little help from these lovely creatures.” The Equestrians, mostly the mares, blushed or rub their hoof on the ground from the compliment. Then they took a peek behind the curtain to observe the centaurs. “They look nice,” Fluttershy compliments. “Alright, girls,” One cupid announced. “This is the moment! One of those centaurs will be your boyfriend and, with lots of luck, your future husband.” “So, all you have to do is make sure they like each other?” Rainbow asked. “Exactly! We'll even create a romantic atmosphere for them.” “Maybe we can help too,” Spike suggests. “Just to make things easier for you guys.” “Yeah, we could be matchmakers!” Pinkie said, excitedly. “That would be very nice,” One cupid smiled. “Thank you.” “I suggest you strike a few poses,” Rarity advised to the centaurettes. “Men are easily attracted to that.” “They all do,” Octavia said. “Believe me.” They’re not wrong on that part. “Gee, I’ll probably never have a special someone like the rest of you,” Sunflower said, sadly. The Equestrians heard that and immediately face her. “Don’t think that way, Sunflower,” Rarity said. “You’ll never know what life has in store for you.” “Rarity’s right,” Applejack agreed, placing a hoof on Sunflower’s shoulder. “One day, there’ll be a centaur who’d go nuts about ya.” “Everyone deserves love,” Jiminy said, hopping on Applejack’s head. “We’ll even help you if you want,” Twilight said. “We’ll help you too,” The white-haired centaurette said, hugging Sunflower. “We promise.” “But why?” Sunflower asked. “I’m just an assistant.” “No, you’re more than an assistant,” Another centaurette hugged her. “You’re our friend.” The little centaurette was happy to have such good friends, smiling hopefully. “Alright, girls,” A cupid instructs. “You wait on top of the stairs; when the curtains open, that’s your cue.” The centaurettes nod, understandingly. “Come on, every pony!” Pinkie said, merrily skipping to the curtain. “Let’s meet some centaurs!” Both the cupids and Equestrians step out of the curtain; the centaurs were a bit surprised to see colorful equines. “Who are you?” One centaur asked. “I’m Twilight Sparkle, Princess of Friendship,” Twilight introduced once more. “These are Jiminy Cricket, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Octavia, Vinyl, Fluttershy, Spike and Rarity.” The centaurs smile and bow before Twilight. “It’s an honor, Your Majesty,” One said. “Please, no need to bow,” Twilight said, gently. “You can treat me as any creature.” All the same, the centaurs rose up in respect. “To what do we owe a visit from royalty?” Another one asked. “We aim to spread the love,” Pinkie cuts in. “By introducing you to these lovely ladies,” Spike adds, with a playful smirk. Suddenly, the cupids open the curtains to reveal the centaurettes posing like fashion models. The centaurs were totally mesmerized by their beauty. One cupid smiled at the centaurs, with a face that reads ‘Pretty, aren’t they?’, as they sat down to watch the centaurettes. “Allow us to introduce you to a few,” Applejack said, pointing to one centaurette. “This is Goldenrod!” Applejack refers to a yellow centaurette with ringlets, pink flowers covers her chest and two birds on her rear end modeled as she walks down the staircase. She places a hand behind her back, looking toward the centaurs mid-model. “She’s tough, honest, loves sunsets and likes a guy who’s not afraid to show his sensitive side,” Applejack continues. Then a pink-skinned centaurette with pink hair and flowers around her chest and midriff appears, posing around. “And here’s Cherry Blossom,” Rarity introduced. “Sweet and funny, dreaming of a man who would sweep her off her hooves and take her to a romantic spot under the moonlight.” “Wait!” Rainbow said, raising an eyebrow. “You talking about her… Or you?” “What? Can’t two ladies share the same romantic dream?” Rarity asked, smiling sheepishly. Rainbow raised her eyebrow, as a blue centaurette appears. She had a pink headband around her hair, grapes around her chest and flowers in her tail. “This is Ambrosia, Amber for short,” Twilight introduced. “She’s smart, she’s caring, likes flowers and much more. Anypony want to say hello to her?” Ambrosia keeps posing around, even swished her tail aside with her hind leg. She takes a red flower and drops it on the ground, smiling at the centaurs who couldn’t help but smile. “Why is she dropping that flower on the ground?” Rainbow asked, confused. “Oh-ho-ho, Rainbow Dash,” Rarity laughed. “You truly missed quite a lot in life. That’s the oldest trick in the book to get a stallion’s attention.” “She’s right,” Jiminy explains. “During the 17th and 18th century, women, mostly those who live in high society, tend to flirt with men when they’re in love or show interest in them. But the most used tactic to get their attention was drop something that belongs to them and hope the man will pick it up for them. They usually use a handkerchief, but a flower is also a good idea.” “Looks like it’s working,” Vinyl points out. A blue centaur makes a daring move and approaches Ambrosia, who gave a dreamy sigh without looking. He picks up the flower, smelled its aroma and gives it to the centaurette it belongs to. Ambrosia happily obliged and together they stroll through the glen. “It’s working,” Twilight said. “They’re falling in love.” They weren’t the only ones, as other centaurs approach the centaurettes they like the most. One offered Cherry Blossom his arm, a signal to take a walk. Cherry happily accepts and walks away while resting her head on his arms. Others try a different approach like giving flowers, introducing themselves, talking about their interests, compliments, whatever works for them. And it all works, as every centaur found a mate and stroll through the glen to celebrate their love. “Let’s follow them and see how they’re doing,” Vinyl said. “Why? It’s just mushy stuff as usual,” Rainbow said, uninterested. “Come on, Rainbow Dash,” Rarity said. “We all know you’ve read ‘Trot with the Wind’ and gained a bit of interest in those novels. Besides, don’t you have an eye on a certain wonderbolt?” Rarity flutters her eyes in a teasing way, making Rainbow blush and her pupils shrink to pinpricks. She knew exactly whom Rarity was talking about. “That’s not true!” She defended herself. “Soarin and I are just colleagues, strictly professional. Nothing more.” “Huh, sure you are,” Rarity silently teased, smiling. When Rainbow heard that, she scowled without saying anything else as they walked through the glen together. They saw the centaurs and centaurettes do various lovey-dovey stuff, while the cupids watch over them. Some cuddled, kissed, took a walk, and other things. One couple cuddles together while wrapping their tails around each other. Another simply took a walk till they stop at a tree. The centaur sought to give his mate a kiss, but the centaurette was shy and stepped away from him a bit. Then they ran together while reaching for each other’s hand. “Looks like love is in bloom for all of them,” Twilight said. “Ooh, I love that song!” Pinkie said. “You said it,” One cupid said, overlooking from the tree. One of them turns around and smiles at what he sees. “Hey, look over there!” The cupid points out, drawing everyone’s attention. One couple relaxed along the river, paddling their hooves in the water. The centaur plucked petals from a flower, the old ‘she loves me, she loves me not’ thing while the centaurette came closer, nudging her head and body against his. It drew his attention, so he threw the flower away and wrapped his arm around his lover. “Aww!” The Equestrians, even Rainbow Dash, said. The blue Pegasus realized what she said and tried to act tough. “I mean, um… It’s cool.” The others giggle a little at Rainbow’s attempt to be cool. “Come on girls, let’s watch some more,” Pinkie said, as they walked further. They stroll behind some bushes to respect the couples’ privacy while they watch. They see a centaur rest his head on the horse part of the centaurette on the ground, while she fed him grapes. They notice two cupids in a tree above them, one holding the grapes the centaurette picked from and the other shaking tiny pink petals off a branch onto the couple. The Equestrians smiled, then saw a centaurette swing on the swing-set, while the centaur pushed her. Two cupids swung along the ropes. The centaurette took off the flower from her head and threw it to the centaur, who caught it while one cupid began to fly. The Equestrians and some cupids slowly turn their heads left-to-right, watching the swing go forward and back. Two cupids wink at one another in approval. “That was a great idea, Rarity,” Twilight compliments. “Making the centaurettes pose like models through simple nature stuff as hats and necklaces.” “What can I say?” Rarity said, proud of her work. “When something inspiring comes to mind, I always use it to help those in need.” “Those girls weren’t really ‘in need’,” Applejack said. “But… It’s still a great idea.” Fashion or not, the centaurettes were happy and to the Equestrians’ surprise, even Sunflower found someone special, too. The little centaur sat on her haunches on a field of flowers under the sunlight, as a handsome black centaur just her size sat next to her. They hold each other’s hands looking deep in their eyes. Our heroes couldn’t be happier, as Rarity shed a tiny tear. Fluttershy gives her a tissue to blow her nose in. “I’m so happy for her, Rarity,” Fluttershy said. “Looks like everything’s going well,” One cupid observed. “There may have been a couple who had a small argument, but we managed to fix it.” But not everyone seemed to find someone to love. When Pinkie Pie faced a certain direction, she was shocked and sad at the sight. Twilight noticed her expression. “What is it, Pinkie?” Twilight asked. “Why so sad?” She turns for a better look and is just as shocked as her friend. It didn’t take long for the others, including the cupids, to notice too. A muscular centaur with blue skin, a purple horse body and black hair and tail sat alone under a tree with a depressed look. Fluttershy gasped, like her heart broke. “Poor feller,” Applejack said. “That’s something that can happen,” Twilight said, feeling bad for him. “Guess not every pony is lucky.” The Equestrians and cupids shook their heads at the sight, feeling bad for him. The centaur gave a deep sad sigh while the others copy his moves. “Are you sure there’s nothing we can do to help?” Rainbow asked. “Or at least, cheer him up?” “I don’t know,” Twilight shrugged. “Nothing comes to mind.” “How about you, Jiminy?” Spike asked the same question. “I don’t have a clue either,” Jiminy said, sitting with his hands to his cheeks. “Looks pretty hopeless.” Suddenly, one cupid flew toward them. “Hey, guys! I found a centaurette all alone.” When the Equestrians and other cupids heard that, they immediately react. “Where?” Twilight asked, eager to know. “Over there!” The cupid points. The cupids and Equestrians turn that direction for a closer look, they all smiled with hope. A beautiful blue-skinned centaurette with a dark blue horse body. She also had blond pig-tailed hair with pink bows and a wreath of flowers for both her bikini top and waistband. Like the centaur, she didn’t find a mate either and there she sat underneath a tree, wishing for one. This was an opportunity our heroes couldn't let slip away, as an idea pops in Twilight’s head. “I got it! We’ll get the two to love each other.” “How will we do that?” Fluttershy asked. “Gather around, ladies,” Twilight motioned with her hooves. “You too, boys.” Every pony, including Spike and Jiminy, huddled close to Twilight in a circle. “Here’s the plan,” Twilight explains. “We split into two groups. One to the centaurette, the other to the centaur. We talk to them and make them acknowledge each other.” “We can help with that,” One cupid said, pulling out a flute from nowhere. “What’s that for?” Rainbow asked, confused. “When we play these, they’ll be mesmerized by the music,” The cupid explains. “When they follow it, they’ll notice each other once they’re close enough.” “Sounds perfect to me,” Spike said. “Brilliant!” Rarity agreed. “Okay then,” Twilight nodded. “Rarity, you, Octavia, Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash talk to the centaurette. The rest will walk with me to the centaur. Once we’ve tried to cheer them up, the cupids will step in and use their flutes to lure them to each other.” “Ooh, ooh, ooh!” Pinkie hopped up and down. “I wanna play the flute too! Can I play the flute with the cupids? Oh please, please, pwetty please???” Pinkie give Twilight the puppy dog eyes, which made Twilight chuckle. “Okay, okay, take it easy,” Twilight said, facing the cupids. “Can she play the flute along with you?” “No problem,” One cupid said, handing Pinkie his flute. “Here, take it. I’ll go along with one of the groups.” Pinkie looks at it with a big smile, hugging it close to her heart. “I promise to do a good job!” “Alright, let’s do it!” Twilight said, as each group works according to plan. Rarity’s group approaches the centaurette, who sighs with sorrow. Trying not to frighten her, Rarity clears her throat to get her attention and it worked. “Oh, it’s you,” The centaurette said, sadly. “Is something the matter, darling?” Rarity asked. Of course, she knew the answer, but it doesn’t hurt to ask. “I haven’t found someone I love,” The centaurette replied. “All the boys are taken, especially the good ones.” “Are you sure?” Rarity asked. “Have you looked everywhere?” “Yes, but not a single stallion showed interest in me,” The centaurette said, tears rolling down her cheek. “Maybe I’m not pretty enough.” “That’s total nonsense,” Octavia said. “Look at yourself, you’re completely gorgeous.” “Octavia’s right,” Rainbow agreed. “Any centaur would love to hang with you.” “Then why did none come to me?” The centaurette asked, facing the ponies. “Maybe you didn’t take a good look around,” Fluttershy said. “Or rather, maybe both of you didn’t take a good look around.” Fluttershy was referring to both the centaurette and the centaur she didn’t know about, but it’s no wonder she seemed confused and surprised. Meanwhile, Twilight and her team try the same tactic with the centaur. “Excuse me sir,” Twilight said, causing the centaur to turn around. “Do you have a problem?” “Sadly yes,” The centaur said, depressed. “There were so many pretty girls and I haven’t found one that interests me. Not even one was interested in me either. Guess I’ll have to spend the rest of my life alone.” “Now that’s a lot o’ hooey,” Applejack said. “I may not be a love expert, but I think ya probably didn’t look hard enough. Now buck up and raise yer head.” “I’d listen to Applejack,” Jiminy advised, sitting on Applejack’s hat. “My father always said to me, 'There’s a lid for every jar.’” “But where can I find the perfect girl?” The centaur asked. “Dude, nobody’s perfect,” Vinyl said. “What do you seek in a girl?” “Well… She has to be funny and caring,” The centaur explained. “Someone who likes to laugh and would like me for… Well, me.” During that time, the other group spoke with the centaurette. “What I like in a boy?” The centaurette began. “Gentle, someone who likes to have fun and treats me good.” The ponies look at each other with a smile. “I think we found somepony you might like,” Rainbow said. “Really?” The centaurette smiled, hopefully. “Where?” “All you have to do is follow Pinkie and the cupids,” Octavia said. Suddenly, Pinkie and two cupids appear in front of the centaurette, blowing soft melodies with their flutes. The music made the girl smile, as she rose from the ground and slowly follows them spreading her arms forward and keeping her eyes closed. The other ponies walk along beside her until the music stops. As the centaurette opens her eyes, she is surprised to see the lonely centaur still depressed even after speaking with Twilight and the others. The centaurette liked what she saw, starting to blush and couldn’t help but look away with a cute smile. At Twilight’s side, they both notice their other friends with the centaurette. It was time to do their part. Twilight winks at the rest of the group, who wink back in understanding. “Well, like Pinkie always says,” Spike said. “’It’s time to turn that frown upside down.’ Because today’s your lucky day.” “Yeah, because there is somepony who likes you,” Applejack said, honestly. “You really think so?” The centaur asked. “We know so,” Twilight nods. “Just follow Pinkie and the cupids. Believe me when I say, ‘you’ll be in for a surprise.’” Suddenly, Pinkie and the cupids appear again playing the same tune as before. It lifted the centaur’s spirit, so much that he rose from the ground and follows them with his arms spread forward. Suddenly, he looks in front of him and is surprised by the beauty standing before him. The centaurette was blushing as he approached her. At the moment, Pinkie and the cupids stopped playing as the centaur and centaurette stare each other. A spark appears before their eyes, before they spoke to each other. All the while the Equestrians watch to see how it works. “Hi,” The centaurette said, blushing. “Hi,” The centaur replies, smiling. “I’m Brudus.” “I’m… I’m Melinda,” The centaurette said, shyly. “You’re name is as beautiful as your face,” Brudus said, making the girl giggle. Melinda offers her hand, as Brudus takes it and plants a kiss. The Equestrians cheer them on, even Pinkie and the cupids shake their hands and hooves. “Well done, everyone,” One cupid said. “You did great too, Pinkie!” “You really think so?” Pinkie asked, smiling. The two cupids nod, causing the pink pony to squee. Brudus and Melinda held each other’s hands, while gazing to each other lovingly. Melinda couldn’t help but blush profusely. “I suppose you like each other?” Rainbow asked, with a teasing smile. “Oh yes, she’s everything I’ve dreamed of,” Brudus said. “As I feel for him,” Melinda said. “It’s all thanks to all of you.” “No need to thank us,” Applejack smiled, confidently. “Helping others is what we do.” The two lovers smile, as Melinda rubs her hoof shyly across the ground. “Would you like to join me?” Brudus asked. “I’d love to,” Melinda said. They held each other’s hands again, strolling toward a pavilion close by. The cupids drop flower petals to celebrate their engagement. “Hey!” Vinyl calls out. “You going to the festival too?” “We sure are!” Brudus calls back. “Everybody’s going there.” “We wouldn’t miss it for anything in the world,” Melinda said. “Maybe we can hang together.” “That would be delightful!” Rarity said. “It’ll be fun!” Melinda said. “There’ll be music, dancing, wine… You’ll love it!” “What’s wine?” Pinkie sked. “A drink made of the most delicious grapes in the world,” Brudus answered. “Mmm… Sounds yummy!” Pinkie said. “I hear there’s a god attending it?” Twilight asked. “That’s right,” Brudus nods. “Bacchus, really great guy. He knows how to liven things up at parties.” “Does he?” Twilight said. “I know a pony who’s good at making parties great too.” A certain pink pony turns with a smile, knowing who Twilight is talking about. “I can’t wait to meet this Bacchus guy! We’re gonna party like there’s no tomorrow! Oh, speaking of music, here’s your flute back!” Pinkie holds out the flute to the cupid it belongs to. “You’re a natural talent,” The cupid replies. “Keep it, you need it more than I do.” Pinkie was totally surprised by the gift; so much, she shed tears of joy. “Oh, thank you! I LOVE YOU SO MUCH!” She hugged the cupid a bit tightly, the latter pats her head lightly with a smile. Meanwhile, Brudus and Melinda couldn’t help but laugh and sat inside the pavilion, which Applejack knew what that means. “Guess we better give them some privacy.” “Yeah, before they start smooching right away,” Rainbow joked. “Bye, Brudus!” Twilight said. “Bye, Melinda! See you at the festival!” The centaur and centaurette wave them off, as they began to spend time together. The cupids close the curtains to give them all the privacy they deserve. “Well, another problem solved,” Spike said, proudly. “We are an awesome team,” Rainbow bragged. “Come on, let’s get ready for the festival,” Twilight said. The whole group walks away for final preparations. However, one cupid and, surprisingly, Rainbow Dash stayed behind touching the curtains. They looked around to make sure no one noticed them before turning their attention to each other. “You know, doing something like this is very rude,” The cupid points out. “True,” Rainbow nods. “But hey, everypony does it from time to time.” They open the curtains for a peek and it almost appears both their buttocks were shaped like a heart.