Twilight could remember the day she found out she would be next in line to rule over Equestria, it was rather stressful. Running an entire country wasn't exactly something she was ready for, and couldn't believe that Celestia would spring it on her so fast.
Her friends would attempt to cheer her up, assuring her that Twilight has always done a great job to protecting Equestria, and while Twilight appreciated that, it wasn't really enough to soothe her worries.
Though one colt was determined to stay by her side, that being her precious colt Tender Taps. Since finding out himself, he's made it a point to keep Twilight's nerves as calm as they can be, be it through hugs, rubs, even the occasional kiss to her cheek or muzzle, and some encouraging words of his own.
"Twilight, you're one of the most organized ponies I know," Tender Taps reminded. "If anypony can keep a watchful eye over Equestria, it's you."
"That's very sweet of you to say Tappy, and don't take this the wrong way, but simple words really aren't enough to calm my nerves right now," Twilight said. "Now where's my paper bag?"
"Twilight enough with the paper bag, hyperventilating too much really isn't good for you," Tender Taps insisted. "I can speak from experience on that."
Twilight took a moment to regain her composure, "Yes, you're right, I need to get a hold of myself." Twilight took a deep breath, using the technique taught to her by Cadance. "Alright, I think I'm relaxing."
"Good, and honestly, I think you'll do great," Tender Taps said. "For as long as I've known you Twilight, you've always been on top of things, when it doubt, you make a checklist, you keep things organized, use that to your advantage."
"Right, checklists, schedules, research, shouldn't be too hard, right?" Twilight said, hoping to calm herself more.
"Not for you, after all, you're Princess Twilight Sparkle, if anypony can pull this off, it's you," Tender Taps said. "Being leader of Equestria just means keeping a watchful eye over it, and you've already been doing that for some time now. You're quick to help other ponies and you protect us from danger, you being ruler of Equestria just makes things more official."
"Even so, there's still so much more that comes with being the leader of a whole country," Twilight said. "I'm just not ready for that responsibility."
"But you won't be alone, your friends will help you," Tender Taps. "Even Princess Celestia has her sister, for all you know Spike will probably be your co-ruler, he is kind of like a little brother to you. Plus there's also Cadence and Flurry Heart, you won't be the only Alicorn ruling at least."
"Oh, speaking of Cadance, I should let her know, as well as my brother," Twilight said.
Spike peeked his head into the room, "Sorry to intrude, but we have visitors."
"Twilight!" they heard Pinkie Pie call.
"Sounds like your friends are here," Tender Taps said, then turned to Twilight. "You might have some important things to discuss, so I'll leave you be for now."
"Alright, let's try to see each other again soon," Twilight said.
"If you'd like, I can take you to eat later, that'll help ease your mind," Tender Taps said.
"Aw, how thoughtful," Twilight said, stroking his mane. "Thanks Tappy."
"Also, one more thing," Tender Taps then pulled in Twilight for a kiss, somewhat surprising the mare, and the dragon in the room. "I love you, and I'll always be there for you."
With that Tender Taps started making his way out of the room, leaving Twilight in a state of shock. Even Spike looked like he couldn't believe what he just saw.
"Did...did you just..." Spike was trying to register this moment in his head.
"Kiss Twilight?" Tender Taps finished. "Yeah, I did."
Spike couldn't believe how bold that colt was, he turned his attention back to Twilight, the mare currently blushing from Tender Taps's affection.
"He's quite charming...isn't he?" Twilight said.
"He's also a foal, he really shouldn't be kissing you like nothing, it just seems unusual," Spike said.
"You're right, he shouldn't," Twilight admitted. "It really isn't proper...still, I'm just amazed, I don't know what happened but he's starting to change a bit, wonder what the reason is?"
"He did shift in personality this past week, I noticed it right around the time Rumble and Sweetie Belle broke up...do you think that somehow changed him?" Spike asked.
"I'm not certain of it yet," Twilight said. "We'll worry about that later, let's just move on, bring my friends in if you please."
Spike did as asked, leaving Twilight to her thoughts. She knew Tender Taps had a crush on her, she even somewhat encouraged him to maintain his feelings. But what she didn't expect was for him to already have such an advancement in his feelings.
She needed to slow him down a bit, or that's what she believed she should do, deep down she questions if she wants him to take it slower. She does like his affection and it makes her feel nice. Now she has even more to think about, this is not going to help her worries.
Back in the present, Twilight is searching the skies for any sign of Tender Taps, or the enemy. She felt angry, and somewhat afraid. The idea of anything bad happening to Tender Taps was too much for her to bear.
"How could I have let this happen, I should have kept a closer eye on Tappy," Twilight muttered to herself. "How can I expect to protect an empire if I can't protect somepony very special to me?"
As Twilight flew through the skies, still in search of her precious pony, one creature in particular was keeping a close eye on Twilight through his crystal ball. A mysterious goat like creature, the villain known as Grogar.
"As expected, she's looking for the boy," Grogar turned his attention to his nearby ally. "Let Chrysalis know that Twilight Sparkle has taken the bait, soon we'll have her where we want her."
The ally, Adagio Dazzle, the leader of the Dazzlings, just nodded in confirmation, "Sure thing leader, we can't wait to start the show, should be quite a performance."
Meanwhile Rumble had made himself at home in Sweet Apple Acres, having barricaded the barn and assembling a stack of hay for a makeshift bed.
"This place is completely deserted, I really hope the Apple Family is alright," Rumble said to himself. "Even their animals are gone, what could have happened? Hopefully nothing bad. I mean her animals are smart so they could take care of themselves at least." Rumble laid on the hay, thinking back to that day where Applejack had given him her pep talk and what he did with it. His goal toward reforming Cozy Glow had continued.
Flitter had eventually finished up her shopping, and thus Rumble was able to take Cozy Glow to the park where he flew with her in the skies. They were free to do whatever as long as they didn't go too far and stayed within Flitter's view.
"This is so much fun!" Cozy said, flying in the skies with Rumble right beside her.
"Yeah, good way to take your mind off things that are bothering you," Rumble said, doing some twirls. "Most of the time at least."
"I do think your twirls are pretty neat, think you could ever teach me how to do them?" Cozy asked.
"I'd be happy to, but I should warn you, it might be a bit difficult," Rumble said. "I mean I've been struggling with them again lately, they require lot of focus."
"I still wanna try, please show me Rumbly-boo," Cozy said, batting her eyes.
Rumble chuckled nervously, "Alright Cozy, you don't need to put on a cute act for me."
"Act? I'm always cute," Cozy Glow said. "It's completely natural."
Rumble chuckled some more, "Yeah I can't argue that. Now the key to doing a mid-air spin is focusing on one object. Try not to let your eyes wander, otherwise you might get dizzy."
"Right, focus on one thing..." Cozy grinned at Rumble. "Like maybe your handsome and adorable face."
"Or something you won't crash into if something goes wrong," Rumble nervously insisted. "It does take practice and you want to be safe, so try focusing on a cloud, that way you won't have to worry about getting hurt because the cloud can't hurt you. Unless you hit it hard enough to shoot lightning."
"Alrighty Rumble, you're the boss," Cozy Glow said, getting into position. "So just keep my eye on the cloud?"
"Yeah, eye on the cloud," Rumble said. "Then spin."
Cozy Glow revved her up wings and started flying toward a cloud, spinning around towards it. Unfortunately she started to lose balance mid-air and crashed through the cloud, failing the turn.
"Shoot, let me try again," Cozy said, going toward another cloud.
"Remember, don't think about it too much," Rumble said.
"Thanks Rumble," Cozy said, flapping her wings. She flew again, spinning around but this time started spiraling towards the ground.
"Cozy!" Rumble shouted in worry, flying towards his friend and catching her before she hit the ground. "Gotcha Cozy!"
Runble landed on the ground, allowing Cozy to get off his back as she trotted wobbly for a few seconds before shaking it off.
"Ugh, come on!" Cozy shouted in anger. "Why is it so hard!?"
"Easy there Cozy, it's not worth getting mad over, you're a beginner," Rumble said.
"I'm not mad!" Cozy shouted, causing Rumble to jump back.
"Noted," Rumble cautiously reached his hoof out to stroke Cozy's mane. "It takes practice, don't worry about it, you'll get it one day."
Cozy was still annoyed, but eventually calmed her nerves. "I guess, thanks Rumbly."
"I'm surprised you want to learn the twirls, oh do you want to be a professional flyer?" Rumble asked.
"Not weally," Cozy said. "I just wanted to have something in common with you and an activity we can do together."
"Oh is that all?" Rumble asked. "You don't need to learn stunt flying, there's other things we can try. A pony is never one thing, despite what Cutie Marks say."
"Huh?" Cozy asked. "Oh right, Apple Bloom once told me you never liked Cutie Marks, she said it was weally weird."
"I'm not getting into that right now," Rumble said, somewhat bitterly. "I'm just not into Cutie Marks, that's all. I mean, do you even know what yours means?"
Cozy looked to her flank, seeing the chess piece that was her Cutie Mark. "I might have an idea."
"Well it doesn't matter, we can find other things," Rumble said. "How do you feel about cooking?"
"That could be fun, what would we cook though?" Cozy asked.
"Uh, just about anything you want," Rumble said.
"Oh! Like cookies!" Cozy asked. "I would weally like some cookies!"
"Alright, cookies it is," Rumble said. He had to admit, seeing her geek out over cookies was very adorable. "We just gotta let Flitter know."
"Oh, before that, I wanna try the spin one more time," Cozy said, much to Rumble's worry.
"Are you sure you wanna do that?" Rumble asked. "You almost crashed."
"I think I got it," Cozy insisted, flying back into the sky. She focused back on the cloud, as per Rumble's prior suggestion. She revved up his wings and flew top speed toward the cloud, beginning her spinning.
She actually did well at first, getting a couple of slow but full spins, much to Rumble's relief. "That's great Cozy, now just...Cozy be careful!"
Cozy was spinning a lot now, but seemed unable to stop and began spinning toward the ground, heading straight for Lyra and Bon Bon, the two unaware for the moment, until they heard Cozy's screams of terror.
"Oh no! Our picnic! Not again!" Lyra shouted in worry.
Rumble quickly rushed in and grabbed Cozy Glow before she hit the ground, acting as a cushion as she landed hard on top of him. Cozy was dizzy of course, seeing stars and swirls before shaking it off. "That was a doozy." She looked down and saw that she landed on Rumble, the colt looking a bit out of it. "Oh my Gosh! Rumble! Are you alright!? You're not hurt are you!?"
"I'm fine," Rumble said, shaking off the dizziness. "I'm just glad you're ok."
"Thanks to you, my hero," Cozy said, smiling down at Rumble.
"Hey, that's what friends are for," Rumble said, trying to sit up. Though as he did, Cozy had caught him with a kiss, one that took Rumble by surprise. He was tempted to fight it off, but the kiss felt really nice, plus he is single, not like the kiss would hurt anypony, this time at least.
Cozy pulled away, smiling at the colt, "A little reward for you."
Rumble chuckled nervously, "Hehe, thanks."
"How despicable," they heard Bon Bon say. The two turned to face the mare, who had a disgusted look on her face. "Flaunting around your forbidden love, have you no shame?"
"I'm not flaunting anything!" Rumble argued. "All I did was save her from falling."
"Yeah...then you kissed her," Lyra said.
"Technically I kissed him," Cozy said. "I mean can you blame me? He's super cute."
"Yeah, he's cute, until he cheats," Lyra said. "Which you would know all about, you relationship-wrecker!"
"What did you call me!?" Cozy Glow shouted, looking ready to attack Lyra.
"Cozy Glow, no, it's not worth it!" Rumble urgently warned. Cozy Glow took a moment to calm herself, she knew that if she did anything, then Twilight would not hesitate to send her back to Tartarus. Oh how she hated Twilight right now too.
"Why don't you tell me why it matters to you if Rumble and Sweetie Belle are dating or not?" Cozy Glow asked.
"We just don't like ponies who are unfaithful to those they love," Bon Bon said.
"Yeah, I would never do anything like that to Bonnie," Lyra stated. "I love her more than anything in the world."
"Aw, you're so sweet Lyra," Bon Bon said, wrapping her marefriend in a deep, passionate kiss.
"Ugh, get a room you two," Cozy Glow sassed, much to the offense of the two mares.
"Fine, maybe we will, we're tired of having our picnics ruined by rotten little foals anyway," Bon Bon said, grabbing her food and packing up.
"Let's go have our picnic someplace quieter," Lyra said, walking off with her marefriend. "Maybe it won't get ruined a third time."
The two had left the foals to themselves, Cozy sticking her tongue out in defiance as they left.
"Stupid hags, who needs them?" Cozy said, then nuzzled against Rumble. "You're all I need my sweet Wumbly."
"That's really nice of you to say Cozy," Rumble said. "But it's stuff like that we need to get resolved. We don't want ponies hating us."
"Doesn't bother me," Cozy said. "Honestly why should we care what they think?"
"I just don't like ponies hating me for a mistake, and I also want you to have a much better life than you did before," Rumble said. "It'd be much easier if ponies weren't judging you for your past, you have a chance to make a fresh start, and I think you should take it."
"Why are you so worried about that?" Cozy asked. "If ponies don't like us for how we are then they're not worth the effort. Ponies should automatically love me, I'm cute and adorable!"
"Yes, you are cute and adorable, but no one is gonna care if you're not nice," Rumble said. "If you were a sweet little filly like I know you can be, then things would be so much better for you. Flitter and I are the only ones who believe in you right now, but with work I know everypony else will have faith."
"Seems like a lot of unnecessary work," Cozy said. "But if it makes you happy, I guess I'll twy."
"I'm happy to hear," Rumble said. "Let's go talk to Flitter, we can go back home and try cooking something tasty."
"Tastier than you?" Cozy said, gazing at Rumble with intense bedroom eyes.
Rumble chuckled nervously as he stepped back away from the filly, "Uh, yeah, tastier than me..."
Cozy smirked almost sinisterly, "Alrighty then, you lead the way Rumbly-Boo."
Rumble nervously turned away, Cozy might be adorable but she can also be a bit creepy. He led the girl to his foalsitter, who was at the moment reading a book. "Hey, Flitter?"
"What is it Rumble?" Flitter asked, looking up, then noticed something a bit worrying. "Rumble, you have a cut!"
"I do, where?" Rumble asked, looking around.
Flitter grabbed his hoof, showing where the cut was, "Right here, looks like you got a scratch."
"Wow, I didn't even notice that," Rumble said. "Must have happened when I caught Cozy just before she crashed into the ground."
"Crash?" Flitter asked. "Oh, you mean when she was trying that spin thing?"
"Oh you saw?" Rumble asked.
"Yeah I saw you trying to coach her, it was cute," Flitter said. "Didn't realize it would get so rough though."
"Well Cozy was very determined," Rumble said. "Maybe I wasn't the right pony to teach her, I could barely do it myself nowadays."
"You? But you've always been a talented flyer for your age," Flitter said. "You're miles ahead of other foals."
"Normally I can do it, I just feel so...out of it lately," Rumble said. "It's been like that all week."
"It's because of Sweetie Belle right?" Flitter asked, getting a nod from Rumble. "Right, you mentioned this to us."
"I know you tried to help but nothing you said really sunk in," Rumble said.
"Well I'm not a professional flyer, so that might be why," Flitter said. "Little surprised CC couldn't help, she knows a lot more about flying."
"She's never had to deal with a bad break-up," Rumble said. "I need a pony who's experienced the feelings I have. Even Thunderlane's struggling so I can't ask him either."
"Thunderlane's had other break-ups though," Flitter said. "He'll know how to bounce back faster, once he does he'll probably be of better help. Until then maybe you should take a break from flying, it'll help clear your mind."
"Yeah, I plan to, in fact that's why I came here, I wanted to take Cozy back home and cook something with her," Rumble said.
"Ooh! That sounds great! That's a good way to take your mind off your problems," Flitter said. "Plus Cozy will get to try one of your tasty snacks!"
"Has he cooked for you before?" Cozy asked.
"You bet he has," Flitter said. "He's such a talented little chef."
"It's nothing really," Rumble bashfully said. "I just think it's fun to cook."
"Maybe it can be your Cutie Mark," Cozy Glow said. "But you said you don't like Cutie Marks so I guess it won't matter."
"I have nothing against them, I just don't want to be known as one thing," Rumble said. "Then again most Cutie Marks I've seen don't really tell me much about the pony anyway, I mean your Cutie Mark is a chess piece, what does that even mean?"
Cozy looked to her mark, "It means I'm calculating, clever and I know how to plan my moves."
"Mine just means I'm good with flying, but even then it's a little vague," Flitter said. "I do hope you get over this mindset Rumble, Cutie Marks don't define a pony, their actions do. Pinkie Pie's Cutie Mark is about throwing parties, but that doesn't stop her from wanting to make treats, she loves working in a bakery as much as she loves parties, I mean you think she's good at baking don't you?"
"Of course, I love her snacks," Rumble said.
"So she's talented with at least two hobbies, just like you can be," Flitter said. "You can be both a talented cook and a talented flyer."
"Maybe you can combine the two!" Cozy suggested.
"Combine flying with cooking?" Rumble asked. "How would that work?"
"You two can figure something out," Flitter said. "You're both very intelligent foals."
"Yeah, I am pretty smart and cunning," Cozy boasted, much to the mild concern of Rumble and Flitter.
Later on at Flitter's house, Rumble was in the kitchen with Cozy Glow, the colt opting to work on a type of Vegetable Stew. Equipped with his trusty chef hat, Rumble went right to work on his stew.
"So why are we making something with Vegetables in it?" Cozy asked, a chef had of her own, and somewhat grossed out. "I thought we were gonna make a cake)
"Because it's healthy," Rumble explained. "It's a recipe my brother got from Wonderbolts Practice, the nutrients help the wings of a Pegasus and keeps our minds focused so we can fly at our best. Besides I rarely eat sweets, I only eat Pinkie Pie's because she makes me treats that are low sugar."
"Didn't Flitter tell you to take a break from flying though?" Cozy asked. "Why make something for flying?"
"Well I just like the taste, plus maybe it can help put my mind at ease," Rumble said. "Look if you try this then next time we'll make your choice of a cake, sweets and all."
"Oh fine," Cozy said, grabbing the recipe book. "So we got the carrots, the peas and potatoes, next we need the soy sauce."
"That's important, it adds an extra taste to it," Rumble said, it's in that cabinet, pass it over to me please.
Cozy did as instructed, grabbing the sauce from the cabinet, examining it a moment, "Is this it?
"Yeah, hoof it over," Rumble said, grabbing the sauce from the filly and adding a few drops. "Sweet, now to stir it a little."
Rumble grabbed the big wooden spoon and began stirring the pot, slowly and precisely, making sure to really mesh the taste together.
"The key is to take it slow," Rumble said. "Normally I'm all about high speeds, but sometimes you gotta dial back. Certain things require extra care."
Cozy flashed a cheeky grin to Rumble, "Something tells me you're an expert at precise care."
"I won't argue that," Rumble said, albiet with a minor blush. "Love requires tenderness after all, only occasionally does speed come into play...but that's an explaination for another time."
Cozy had an idea what Rumble meant, choosing this moment to nuzzle against the colt, "I may be small, cute and adorable, but I know more about certain things than you might realize."
Rumble started feeling strange again, though he had to admit, compared to before, he wasn't too bothered this time. He remembers when Cozy's affection would be a bit werid and uncomfortable, even after breaking up with Sweetie Belle. Deep down he harbored some dislike for the cutsey filly due to her involvement in his break up with Sweetie Belle.
Yet somehow he can't really resist her cuteness, she really is an adorable filly whether he wants to admit it or not, and while it also pains him to admit it, her looks do rival Sweetie Belle's. It might be the freckles, they do look cute on mares, Applejack being a prime example.
Rumble needed to shift the conversation, so he turned back to his stew, grabbing some salt and pepper to add in for extra taste. "Alright, the meal's just about ready, let's grab some bowls."
"On it," Cozy Glow said, grabbing some nearby bowls. She placed them by Rumble, the colt pouring the stew.
"There, enough for both of us, plus if my brother or foalsitters want any," Rumble said. "I hope you like it."
"Yeah, I hope so too," Cozy said, still unsure about it.
"You'll like it, I promise," Rumble said.
Cozy, despite her uncertainty, did trust Rumble. She took a sip of the stew, lighting up right afterwards. "Gee wilikers! That's really tasty!"
"Ha, told you it's good," Rumble said, taking a sip of his own. "Good for energy and high protein."
"And tasty!" Cozy said, eating more of her stew. "Wow, you really are a great chef Rumble. Whether you get your Cutie Mark in it or not, there's no denying your talent."
"Aw, thanks Cozy, I really appreciate that," Rumble said.
The two finished up the stew, Cozy rubbing her belly in satisfaction, "So amazing, this was much better than I thought...even if I would have preferred cake."
"Next time, any cake you want we'll make," Rumble said. "We'll bake a cake as sweet as you are, if that's even possible."
Cozy Glow blushed quite a bit after hearing that, Rumble's compliment seemed so random yet she liked it quite a lot. "That was really nice of you to say Rumble." Somehow instead of feeling all good inside, Cozy started to feel awkward. "Huh, weird, suddenly I don't feel like accepting compliments."
"Oh? Why's that?" Rumble asked. He had a feeling but he needed to hear it from Cozy.
"Well, I know I haven't been the nicest filly, and I know I caused trouble for you," Cozy said. She looked in Rumble's direction, focusing her glance on his charming face. "I almost don't feel like I deserve it."
"Aw, sorry to hear that," Rumble said. Deep down he was partially happy, not because she was sad but because she was becoming self aware of her negative actions. "Well you're my friend, and friends forgive each other. So Cozy Glow, I forgive your mistakes, I just hope you grow from the experience."
"Wow really?" Cozy said. "Golly Rumble, you're really kind, I...I'm so glad I met you." Cozy gently brushed her mane back, "And thank you, for giving me a chance to be your friend. I promise to always be there for you."
"Same," Rumble said, inching over to gently stroke her face. "And if you ever need me, I'll be there. If you ever need help, I'll come to rescue you. Please, don't feel like you're alone, and don't feel ashamed to ask for help. Always comes to me when something's bothering you, I won't ever judge you in your weakness."
Cozy started gently stroking Rumble's face, "Rumble...I..." Cozy gulped, looking Rumble in his eyes. "I think...I think I'm in love with you."
Rumble blushed upon hearing that, though he knew her feelings, she's never hid them before. "I kind of figured that, you've mentioned it before."
"But I mean it, I think I'm actually in love with you," Cozy Glow said. "I know it's wrong to say, maybe it's not something you want to hear after breaking up with Sweetie Belle, especially since my crush is what caused it, but it's my honest emotions!"
Rumble wasn't sure how to respond, every time he wanted to say something, he blanked out. He really couldn't think of anything to say after hearing Cozy's apparent love confession. The thing is, she seems really confused right now, what she thinks is love might just be a big crush. Of course he knows a crush can turn into love like with Sweetie Belle. Cozy deserves the chance to find out if this really is a crush or true love, and while part of him is against this, he needs to find out for himself as well what his feelings are.
"Cozy Glow," Rumble began. "Thanks for being honest with me. I know how you're feeling, because I've been there too. You think you're in love, and it's frustrating, because you don't know what you're really feeling." Rumble stroked her mane, "I'll help you through this, and I'll help you find out. Like I said, I'm your friend, I'll get you through this."
"Thank you Rumble, I really appreciate that," Cozy said, locking eye contact with the Pegasus colt before her.
The two just stared a moment, looking into each other's eyes, then slowly leaned in, locking themselves into a kiss. They were done talking for the moment, they just needed to explore their emotions.
Whether or not Rumble returned Cozy's feelings even he didn't know, because he didn't know if her feelings were genuine or just a silly crush, but at the very least, it wouldn't hurt to try.
Unfortunately for them, they didn't have that much time to explore their emotions, Flitter had to take Cozy Glow home, though of course the two made plans to see each other again.
"Tomorrow I'll come and see you Cozy, we'll do something else together," Rumble said.
"I look forward to that," Cozy replied, bashfully looking down. "I hope we can have so more fun together."
"We will, we'll have plenty," Rumble assured.
Flitter seemed satisfied by what she was hearing right now, seems like the two had bonded again. This makes for a nice clean slate, no more secrets between the two, now it's just pure friendship, or the start of one.
Of course Flitter doesn't know what just transpired between the two foals.
"See you tomorrow Rumble," Flitter said, making her way out alongside the once troublesome filly.
Rumble waved bye and returned to his couch, relaxing on it for a moment, while thinking over what just happened between himself and Cozy Glow. He feels some twinge of regret for kissing her, especially since one that's the same filly that he essentially cheated on Sweetie Belle with, and two he didn't even know if he loved her back, and perhaps it wasn't such a good idea to kiss a filly who herself is undecided, he may have made up her mind while he was still undecided. It would be terrible to lead her on like that.
As he spent a few minutes thinking this over, he heard a knock on his door. Curious he got up, expecting to probably see his brother, or maybe a new date his brother has that came over too early. Wouldn't be the first time, it's how he met Blossomforth, granted he hasn't seen her much since that break-up, he thought she was really nice and she seemed to like Rumble.
As he opened, he instead saw his best friend Dinky. "Sup Rumble?"
"Dinky? What are you doing here?" Rumble asked.
"Hey is that any way to greet your bestie?" Dinky joked, then made her way inside. "I heard Cozy Glow was here, kind of wanted to see her, and make sure she's not trying anything funny."
"You just missed her," Rumble said. "Flitter took Cozy Glow home just a few minutes ago."
"Oh, dang," Dinky said, feeling a bit let down. "So what happened while she was here?"
"Nothing, we just cooked, that's all," Rumble said. Unfortunately he was betrayed by his own face as it slightly turned pink.
"Just cooked huh?" Dinky asked. "Yeah, you were cooking something alright, something spicy." Dinky leaned in close, getting her muzzle against Rumble's. "Spill it, what happened between you two?"
"Nothing major Dinky," Rumble tried insisting. "Just some...cooking."
"Rumble, I'm your best friend, I know you well enough to know when you're hiding something," Dinky said. "You know you can tell me, I'm not gonna be mad or anything."
She was right, Rumble knew he couldn't hide this from Dinky. Actually maybe it would be better if he told her, he could use her opinion right now.
"Alright, you got me," Rumble said. "We may have...started kissing after our meal."
"Oh, so she was your dessert was she?" Dinky teased.
"That was so lame Dinky," Rumble said.
Dinky shrugged it off, "Eh, I tried. But still, you actually kissed Cozy Glow? That's a bit surprising, I thought you were still ticked off at her for basically being the reason you and Sweetie Belle aren't a thing anymore."
"I realize that, which makes this even more awkward for me," Rumble said. "Honestly, I liked the feeling I got from kissing her, plus she's really cute. But if I were to date her, it would make my break-up with Sweetie Belle look worse, it would seem like I dumped her for another girl."
"Isn't the reason you broke up with Sweetie Belle to date other girls and make sure you're in love with her?" Dinky asked.
"Yeah, but to date the girl responsible for so much drama? That sounds like a recipe for disaster," Rumble said. "I mean if it were another girl like Scootaloo, that's a bit different."
"Not that much," Dinky said. "Then it looks like you dumped your marefriend for her bestie."
Rumble groaned in annoyance, glaring slightly at his friend, "Who's side are you on?"
"Well yours, I'm just laying down all the possibilities for you, and the outcomes," Dinky said. "Look, fact is no matter who you date after this, ponies are gonna judge. Now I don't really suggest dating Cozy Glow just yet, that might be a bit too soon, and Sweetie Belle's friends might be too risky as well, unless she's already talked to them and they're cool with it."
"That might be akward to explain to Cozy Glow then, considering I just made out with her, somewhat," Rumble said.
"Hey I'm just giving you my suggestion, if you want to date her right now anyway then be my guest," Dinky said. "Just be ready for the crap ponies are gonna give you about that."
Rumble rubbed his head sheepishly, "I guess you have a point, Lyra and Bon Bon were judging me quite a bit when they saw us kissing at the park."
"Wait, you kissed her twice?" Dinky asked.
"Well the first time she kissed me and I just let her," Rumble said. "The second time was a bit more mutual."
"Ooh, you must have it bad for her then," Dinky said. "That or your just a confused little pony. Don't worry, your big sis Dinky will be there to help you."
Rumble raised his eyebrow at his friend, "Can you not call yourself 'big sis' after what's been going on between us the last week?"
"Oh like you never had that type of fantasy with Flitter or Cloudchaser," Dinky joked, much to Rumble's annoyance. "Seriously though, I got your back, I'll get you your girl, whoever that may be." Dinky stroked Rumble's face gently, "As long as I get to have some fun with you in the meantime."
"If you don't somehow fall in love with me along the way," Rumble said.
"I'm not, truth be told I'm not all that into colts," Dinky admitted, much to Rumble's surprise.
"Wait, really!?" Rumble asked. "You've never told me this!"
"You never asked," Dinky replied. "Plus I wasn't sure myself until I really started hanging out with the other Crusaders, I kind of realized that fillies are way cuter than colts, might get a filly for myself one day."
"If you prefer fillies to colts, then why are you suddenly attracted to me?" Rumble asked, then narrowed his eyes at his friend. "Wait, you think I look like a filly too, don't you!"
"Oh no, it's not that, honest," Dinky said, even though his looks did play a factor but she won't tell him that. "My attraction to you is more emotional, plus I did want to know what a colt would be like and since I already like you a lot, I figured what's the harm in making out once in a while. Though if I did have to pick a colt to be with, it would definitely be you. So take pride in the fact that you're the only colt I would have an interest being with."
"Fine, I'll take that as a win," Rumble said.
"So now that I got that out in the open, next time you bring a girl over, see if she's willing to share," Dinky said, getting an annoyed reaction from Rumble.
"Wow, there's no low you won't sink to," Rumble said.
"Heh, had to put it out there," Dinky said, then started making her way out the house. "I'll leave you alone for now, I'd offer to make out with you but you look like you already have a lot on your mind, so I'll leave you be."
"That's...nice of you?" Rumble said, not sure how to respond to that.
"Just think about what I said, remember there's no rush," Dinky said. "You gotta tread carefully on this Rumble, one wrong move and it'll be hard to get a girl. But if worse comes to worse, I'll just marry you myself."
"Don't say something like that so casually, marriage isn't some game!" Rumble said. "Besides you were just talking about how you prefer fillies to colts!"
"Yes, but you're my best friend, and I prefer your happiness overall," Dinky said, to Rumble's mild surprise. "It's no secret that I love you Rumble, not in love with you but I still love you enough to do that for you, I love you enough to never let you be alone."
"Wow, that's...really nice of you Dinky," Rumble said. "Kind of at a loss for words."
"Don't think much of it, I owe you my happiness after all," Dinky said. "I'll see you around Rumble."
Dinky had left Rumble to himself, the colt feeling very flattered by his best friend's words of kindness. Of course he also had to consider what she had to say regarding his current situation. How will he figure out who he truly loves? He needs some assistance, big time.
Back in the future timeline, Twilight Sparkle had tracked down a group of Changelings, and it did not end well for them. Twilight was seen standing over several of them, all unconscious and brutally beaten down. The Princess was not messing around. She held one Changeling in the air, looking him dead in the eyes.
"Where's Tender Taps!?" Twilight shouted.
"Uh...I don't really know!" The Changeling frantically answered. "We weren't in change of that battalion!"
"Alright another question, who is your general!?" Twilight asked. "Or better yet, where is your base!?"
"Our only leader is the Queen, but I can't tell you where her base is, even I don't know!" The Changeling said.
"You don't even know where your own base is!?" Twilight asked. "Explain the logic behind that!"
"Hey wherever we needed to go, he would just send us!" The Changeling said.
"'He' who!?" Twilight asked, tightening her magical grip.
"Agh...Lord Grogar! The one who assembled us!" The Changeling said.
"Grogar? So, another so-called 'myth' has reared their heads in Equestria," Twilight said.
"Yeah, he showed up one day to Queen Chrysalis, then used his magic to assemble all of her allies," The Changeling said. "He's very powerful, strong enough to bring back the dead!"
"I was wondering how Storm King returned, so this Grogar is just as strong as the legend says," Twilight stated. "Alright, time to pay him a little visit then, I'll just ask Discord to help me track his energy."
"It's pointless though, even if you do find Queen Chrysalis, you're not likely to defeat her," The Changeling said. "She's much stronger than before, plus she has allies like King Sombra and The Dazzlings as well."
"You'll be smart not to underestimate me, especially when it comes to my friends!" Twilight shouted, tossing the Changeling into the air and then blasting him down with a magical zap. She turned to the direction of Canterlot, flying over to het assistance, thinking of her precious colt, the one she had come to love, despite it's awkward start.
She remembers her 'date' with Tender Taps, not too long after finding out she was destined to rule over Equestria. They had gone to a small restaurant in Ponyville, sitting in one of the outdoor tables.
"Are you feeling better Twilight?" Tender Taps asked, still concerned about her mentality towards being next in line to rule.
"Somewhat, still how could Celestia and Luna just shove this on me?" Twilight said, looking a bit irritable. "I'm not ready to rule over a country, I'm still learning how to be a Princess."
"You're doing a great job so far," Tender Taps said. "Besides part of being Equestria's ruler is just protecting it and ensuring Harmony. You already do that, they're just making it official. Nothing else is really changing."
"My friends keep saying that, but there are gonna be changes," Twilight said. "I won't be able to run my school, I might have to move back to Canterlot, I'll have to do a ton of paperwork..."
"Don't you already do paperwork at your school?" Tender Taps asked. "Besides you like paperwork, you love being organized."
"Yeah, you're right," Twilight said. "Ugh, this is already messing with my head, I'm not thinking straight."
"Plus you're not gonna be alone, you have me, and your friends and family," Tender Taps said. "But until then try not to worry, just enjoy the time you have now and worry about all that other stuff when the time comes."
"Sorry, but not worrying about things isn't my strong suit," Twilight said. "It's hard to focus on the present when there's so much to worry about in the future."
"That's why you have to enjoy your life now," Tender Taps said. "Plus didn't Pinkie Pie say you tried time traveling once, trying to convince yourself not to worry and you ended up worrying over nothing? I mean if that Future Twilight came back, what do you think she would have to say this time?"
"Uh...I'm not even sure, honestly I wish I just listened the first time," Twilight said.
"Unless there's an apocalypse in the future, which I doubt, then I really think you would have nothing to worry about," Tender Taps said.
"True..." Twilight said, then remembered something. "You know it's funny, it was around that time I saw the Cerberus leave it's post, looking back what I should have done was check to make sure that everything in Tartarus was completely safe."
"Eh, minor oversight, and you still saved Equestria, like a real Princess," Tender Taps said.
"You're such a charmer Tappy," Twilight said, then leaned in to kiss his forehead. "Thank you."
Tender Taps blushed upon receiving the affection, "It's no trouble Twilight, none at all."
The food had finally arrived, the two helping themselves to a nice treat, though if one were to ask Tender Taps, the nicest treat here was his time spent with Twilight.
After the meal, Twilight walked Tender Taps back home, parting ways at his porch.
"I had a great time today Twilight, I really appreciate your company," Tender Taps said.
"Same here my little Tappy," Twilight said. "I hope I can figure out this ruling over Equestria thing."
"Just have faith in yourself," Tender Taps said, then leaned in to kiss her cheek. "I have faith in you."
Now it was Twilight's turn to blush. "I'm happy to hear." Tender Taps made his way inside as Twilight turned around, placing her hoof on the cheek Tender Taps had kissed, blushing to herself.
Back in the future, Twilight had her hoof on the same cheek, reminiscing about that day.
"Tender Taps was so kind to me, he was immediately there for me when I needed it," Twilight said to herself. "That's when I knew how much I could depend on him, how much I really meant to him. That day..." Twilight felt the faintest blush reach her cheeks. "Is the day I began to truly fall in love with him. My dear Tappy, when this is over, I promise we'll have our Happily Ever After together."