//------------------------------//
// A Warm Welcome 
// Story: Guardian of the Pure Elements of Harmony. 
// by Aura Zero 
//------------------------------//

"Um, Sapphire?"

Sapphire suddenly feels a hoof on his head, which startles him up.

"Huh? What? What's going on?" He says while jumping up, clearly not out of his sleep state.

The nurse giggles at his half asleep face. "Hello there."

After she speaks again, Sapphire remembers where he is and blushes. He also gets a good look at the new nurse that has woken him up. She has a yellow coat with a pure white mane and her eyes are a light gold. She also has on a white nurse hat and an overcoat that is currently covering her cutie mark. He finds her rather beautiful.

"Oh hello. I don't think I've had the pleasure of meeting you.” He says politely, blushing slightly.

The nurse giggles again. "I'm Pillpop but the nurses call me Pill. Pleased to meet you."

Sapphire smiles and nods. “Likewise. So, did you need something?"

"I was informed that you were supposed to leave thirty minutes ago. I came by to check up on you." She says while pointing at the exit. 

Sapphire notices the time and jumps up. "Oh! Okay. I'll get ready to head out then."

"Alright. Then if you will follow me." She starts while walking away and out the door.

"Wow, she is cute. A mare like that must already have a stallion." Sapphire says absent-mindedly.

Sapphire hears giggling, surprising him. "No, I'm single."

Sapphire blushes hard, realizing she had heard him as he rushes out the door. "I'm sorry! I tend to ramble when I'm half awake."

She smiles and looks at him. "It's fine. That compliment actually made my day, Sapphire. Thank you."

He still has his blush on when he speaks, "Oh, well you are very welcome."

He then follows the nurse to sign out and pays his bits in full for the treatment. However just then he remembers something.

"Oh no! Derpy! I hope she isn't gone and mad at me!" Sapphire says in a panic and turns to leave, but stops once he hears Pill speak.

"You mean that gray pegasus outside? She's still there. But it's bad manners to keep a mare waiting." Pill says, poking him with a hoof.

Sapphire nods rapidly. "Yeah that's a mistake I plan on rectifying as soon as I see her. Shoot, whatever she wants, I'm going to get her."

The nurse is surprised. "Wow, such a gentlecolt, hehe. Well, you better hurry along!" The nurse ushers him to the exit.

"Thanks for waking me nurse Pill and enjoy the rest of your day!" He exclaims before rushing to the exit.

As he leaves, she speaks up. "What an interesting young stallion. I will definitely have to see him again someday." She says with a smile before heading back to work.





Sapphire rushes outside and looks around. Not too far away he finds Derpy sitting on a bench, looking up. He rushes over.

"Derpy! I'm so sorry I'm late!" He says quickly as he gets close.

She perks up when she hears his voice and sees him come over. "Calm down Saph, its okay." She says with a smile.

Sapphire shakes his head. "No it's not. I didn't keep my word so I'm going to make it up to you. Is there anything you want?"

Derpy is about to object the offer, but pauses and remembers something. "Well, since you're offering, let's go to Sugarcube Corner! I want a muffin!" She demands happily.

Sapphire hops up at the mention of food. "Of course! I want a brownie or two anyway. Or maybe even ten! I'm starving!"

Derpy giggles. "Then let's go!"

At that they begin their walk towards Sugarcube corner. On the way, a lot of ponies call out to Sapphire saying hi or to thank him for saving the town. A town florist named Roseluck stops him as well and offers him a flower. Sapphire smiles and looks at his new best friend before agreeing.

"Do you by chance have both a blue and a yellow rose?" Sapphire asks.

"Of course. The blue roses are pretty rare but the yellow ones are actually common." Roseluck says while grabbing the two roses.

Sapphire nods. "That's good to hear. No one else really has them. How much for them?"

"Oh I'll give these half off! Only 3 bits."

Sapphire hesitates. "Oh are you sure? I don't mind paying full price for them."

She waves his concern off. "Nonsense! You saved this town as well as my shop! You deserve it." Rose says happily.

Sapphire smiles. "Wow! Thanks! This town really is the greatest." He says while giving her the discounted price of three bits.

"Thank you Sapphire. So if you don't mind me asking, who are those for?" She asks curiously.

Sapphire grins as he puts one behind his right ear. "Well the yellow one is for me, and the blue one..." He then walks up to Derpy and slides the blue rose in her mane behind her left ear. "...is for my best friend."

Derpy put a hoof up to the flower and blushes. "Thanks so much Saph!" She says as she pulls him to a hug. He enjoys the hug happily, until Rose speaks up.

"Smooth move Sapphire." Rose cooes.

Sapphire pulls away and rubs his neck with a blush on his face. "Um thanks, I guess. So, ready to go Derpy?"

"Yup! To the muffins!" Derpy says while pointing with a hoof.

Sapphire laughs at her goofy demeanor. They both wave to Roseluck before heading out. He didn't get too far before he hears Roseluck say something but can only hear 'stallion like that'. He ignores it thinking it was none of his business and keeps walking. Very soon they make it up to Sugarcube corner. When Sapphire opens the door for Derpy, the place is surprisingly dark.

Sapphire is confused. "Huh? Is it closed? I could have sworn-"

"SURPRISE!!!!"

At this, Sapphire literally jumps to the ceiling out of shock. The lights come on and ponies pop up from behind furniture and other equipment. Everyone laughs at how surprised he looks as he looks down at them.

"What's going on?" Sapphire asks while still attached to the ceiling using his magic. A few are actually surprised to see it.

Pinkie Pie comes out of a tile in the ceiling, scaring him again. "It's a party silly! For you!"

"For me?" He asks after calming from his second shock of the day.

Derpy speaks up. "Yup! Now can you come down from up there?"

Sapphire drops to the ground and lands on his hooves. When he lands, he notices there are lots of ponies here along with his new friends. Pinkie goes back in the tile she came from.

"Wow! Thanks! But how did you know?"

"Know what?" Pinkie asks, suddenly appearing behind him.

Sapphire wonders how she had gotten behind him so fast but decides to ignore it. "Well, that today was my birthday. That's what this party is for, right?"

Everyone looks at him in surprise.

Pinkie gasps. "Today is your birthday? Oh my gosh! I didn't know! Happy birthday Saph!" She says excitedly as she pulls him into a hug. Once again he is assaulted by the smell of sweets but he tries his best not to think about the food just yet.

"Thanks! I guess this isn't for that. So, what is this party for?"

By this time, Twilight and the others walk up. "It's a welcome to Ponyville as well as a thank you for saving the town party." Twilight says while smiling.

"But now we can add birthday party to it too!" Pinkie says, still holding onto him.

"Wow...never had a party before. This is great! Thank you!" Sapphire exclaims happily.

Pinkie gasps. "Wait! You've never had a party!? It's my duty to fix this right now! Let's get this party started! Hit it!" After Pinkie says that, the music comes on and everyone starts to mingle and dance.

Sapphire smiles but takes notice of a table full of sweets. He immediately makes a beeline towards the snack table and starts to inhale the snacks like a black hole. Derpy and Applejack burst out laughing while they walk up to him.

"Slow down there Saph. Ya might get sick eating so fast." Applejack says while tapping him on the back.

Sapphire finishes the treat he is eating before speaking up. "Yeah heh, sorry. I just was starving not eating for a week and all."

"It's fine sugarcube. Just make sure ya save some room for mah pie." She says with a wink.

Sapphire smiles. "You bet! I can wait to taste it. Did you make it already?"

"Ah sure did. But ah couldn't put it in the open, otherwise there might be a riot."

Sapphire is surprised to hear that. "A pie that can cause a riot? Wow, that must be one amazing pie! I can't wait!"

"Well follow me and come get some sugarcube." She says while motioning him to follow. He does so and Derpy follows as well. The others notice him with Applejack and rush over to join him knowing where they are going. When they get to the other side of the place, Pinkie is standing like a guard next to a covered dish. She notices them coming and waves. They all get there and surround Sapphire and the closed dish.

"Go ahead and open it Sugarcube." Applejack urges.

Sapphire nods and does just that. Once he does open it, he is assaulted by an amazing smell. He can't figure out all the smells he is experiencing, but he can tell there is obviously apple in it, some cinnamon, and honey. His mouth starts watering but he prevents himself from drooling. He notices others around him don't and drool drops to the floor.

"Wow this smells great! Time to dig in." Sapphire says while cutting himself a slice. He lifts it up and takes a bite. When he chews it, it tastes great, but they honestly made it seem like it would be better. However, when he swallows it and it rolls all over his tongue, that's when he tastes everything. It's better than amazing! It's indescribable to him! He feels like his taste buds went through a whirlpool of pleasure by the taste. After he finishes his slice, he merely sits there admiring the leftover taste that is still on his tongue.

"So how was it?" Applejack asks him.

"I think I'm in love..." He says, still in a dreamy state.

Everyone's eyes grow wide at that. Applejack immediately blushes from the compliment. "Well, that's one way ta put it."

Sapphire snaps out of his state and realizes what he had said. "Uh, I mean...it was great! The best thing I have ever eaten." He says while blushing himself.

Applejack smiles and grabs a slice for herself. "Why thank ya Saph. Ok now y’all can have a slice. But make sure everypony gets one."

After she finishes saying that, everyone attacks the pie like it's the last piece of food in Equestria. Sapphire has to literally crawl out of the horde of mares. He sees Spike sitting to the side merely waiting. He trudges over.

"Wow. I thought I was gonna die, or get chewed on! Are they always like this?" He asks after climbing onto a chair.

Spike laughs. "Yeah, you have to break for it after you get your piece. I usually wait til they are done to get my slice. I'd like to keep my limbs."

Sapphire shrugs. "That's a good idea. I'll keep it in mind next time."

After a few more seconds, the mares move away from the table and there is one more slice, which Spike promptly takes. After they all finish the treat Sapphire speaks up.

"Thanks for the pie Applejack. No pie could ever compare to that one."

Everyone else nods in agreement. Applejack smiles at him. "Thanks Saph. Glad ya liked it."

"Saying I liked it would be a huge understatement." He says while shrugging. "So, everyone ready to rejoin the party?"

"Yeah! Let's go party!" Pinkie says before dashing towards the rest of the party. Everyone follows her lead. Sapphire decides instead to head back to the snack table because he is still hungry. However as he gets close, he gets a tap on the back. He turns around to see Rarity.

"Hey Rarity. What's up?"

She smiles. "I was just wondering after the party would you mind coming over to the boutique? I have a gift to give you."

Sapphire is surprised. "Really? Of course I'll come!"

Rarity giggles at his excitement. "Excellent! Now if you'll excuse me, I have to go talk to my dear sister. Have you seen her?"

"Yeah, she is right there with Apple Bloom." He says while pointing to the two mares.

"Thank you darling. Hope you enjoy the party." She says before heading in the direction of her sister.

Sapphire heads to the table and finishes what he had started, which is promptly filling his belly. After a few more brownies, he notices two punch bowls, one of them marked as 'Adult'. He smiles before pouring himself a glass and drinking some. He drinks about four cups of those before he heads to a chair and sits down. 

“Maybe I shouldn't have drank so much at one time..” Sapphire says, feeling the drinks already.

He takes notice of the song playing and smiles. He actually likes this song and starts nodding to the tune. He notices Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle heading his way. When they get close, Scootaloo speaks up.

"Hey Saph! You enjoying the party?"

Sapphire nods excitedly. "Sure am! I'm glad you all threw one for me."

"It was nothing." Sweetie Belle says happily. "So, we were wondering something."

Sapphire raises a brow. "Oh? And what is that?"

"Are there any other magic spells you can use besides the ones you told us? Just curious." Scootaloo asks.

Sapphire smiles. "Yup, a whole lot actually. Defensive spells, attack spells, fun spells..." Sapphire remembers a specific spell and smiles wider at them. "...actually, as a matter of fact, I know a spell that you three would like."

Their ears perk up at this. "What kinda spell?" Apple Bloom asks.

"I wanna know! Tell us!" Scootaloo demands with excitement.

"Please?" Sweetie Belle begs with a pleading face. 

Sapphire finds them to be rather cute. He can't help but smirk at their interest. "Its a spell where I can see how ponies got their cutie marks, as well as see how they can get them."

The three mares eyes grow wide. "REALLY?!?!" They yell in unison quite loud making others turn and look. Sapphire's friends see them and head over to see what's up.

"What's going on over here?" Dash says curiously as she comes over.

"Sapphire has a spell where he can see how ponies got their cutie marks and tell us how to get ours!!" Scootaloo says excitedly.

The others are surprised at this. "Really? How did you learn that?" Twilight asks.

Sapphire puts a hoof to his chin in thought. "Some old man I met in Fillydelphia. He taught me it and then disappeared. He was a weird stallion."

"So ya tellin' me ya can see how ah got mah cutie mark?" Applejack asks skeptically.

Sapphire catches on to that. "Yup. I'll prove it to you if you want."

Applejack nods. "Okay then. How did ah get mah cutie mark?"

Sapphire's eyes start to glow, and then a second later it stops.

"You got yours after you returned to Ponyville from Manehatten to help with the farm." Sapphire explains.

Applejack is surprised. "Why, yes that's right."

"Cool, it works!" Scootaloo says happily.

"That was a lucky guess." Twilight says not completely believing it.

Sapphire looks at her with a raised brow. "Oh? Well then how about I tell you how you all got your cutie marks?"

"You do that and I'll believe you." Twilight replies smugly.

Sapphire smiles as his eyes start to glow as he looks at each of them.

"Twilight, you got yours during a test to enter Celestia's school for gifted unicorns when you used very powerful magic to hatch Spike." Twilight's eyes grow wide and she nods in surprise. 

"Rarity, you got yours after you found a rock filled with gems and used them to create nice outfits for a play." Rarity nods with a smile. 

"Pinkie, you got yours after you found out about fun and decided to bring a party to your family." 

Pinkie giggles happily. “Yup!”

"Fluttershy, you got yours after you helped the animals when they got scared, and learned how to communicate with them." Fluttershy smiles and nods slowly.

"Rainbow Dash, you got yours during a race after you performed a sonic rainboom." Dash rubs a hoof on her chest proudly. 

"Lastly Derpy, you got yours after you clumsily flew into a moving cart which shifted over, saving mayor Mare." Derpy smiles and nods as well.

Everyone is surprised at how Derpy got hers.

"You saved the mayor Derpy?" Spike asks in curiosity.

"Yup! She even gave me a medal!" Derpy says excitedly.

"So, do you believe me now?" Sapphire asks.

Everyone nods, agreeing that there was no other way for him to know how they got their marks.

"So, can you tell us how we get ours?" Scootaloo asks excitedly.

Sapphire frowns. "I don't think I should honestly."

"Aww, why not?" Apple Bloom pouts.

"I think it would be better if you earned it yourself." Sapphire states matter-of-factly.

"But that might take forever!" Sweetie Belle complains.

Sapphire starts to think. He then has an idea. "How about I give you each a hint? Will you be satisfied with that?"

All three of them smile and nod rapidly. Sapphire's eyes once again light up before fading again.

"Okay for your hint Scootaloo, you can earn it much faster with Dash helping you. And you will get it very soon."

Scootaloo grows excited. "Really? Awesome! Rainbow Dash can we start tomorrow?"

"Sure thing Scoots!"  She replies with a smile.

"Alright, Apple Bloom, you will get yours last, but it will be the same day when Scootaloo gets hers. You won't know she has hers and you won't even realize what you are good at until you actually do it."

"So me and Scootaloo get ours on the same day? That's great!" She says happily.

"What about me?" Sweetie Belle asks happily.

He smiles at her, "Let's just say I look forward to your special talent. Also the day you get it is closer than you think. You are the first to get yours."

"I'm the first? Cool! I can't wait!" Sweetie Belle says while cheering.

Twilight and Rarity suddenly pull Sapphire away to ask him something.

"Why do you look forward to Sweetie Belle's talent?" Rarity asks curiously with a grin.

"Yeah and why didn't you say that about the others?" Twilight asks while eyeing him.

Sapphire is confused by the questions but still replies. "Well, I do look forward to seeing the others' talents too, but Sweetie Belle's talent is one of the things I enjoy doing myself." Sapphire admits.

Both mares merely look at him in confusion. He smiles at that. "You will see soon enough." He says before rejoining the others. The two mares shrug at each other before they begin to follow.

"Hey Saph. Can I ask you a question?" Pinkie asks.

"You just did Pinkie." Sapphire says jokingly, the punch making him act rather silly.

She giggles. "Hehe good one! Well, can I ask you two more questions?" Pinkie says with a smile.

"Well that one was one. What's the other?" He asks while smiling.

"If you can learn cutie marks, why don't you have yours yet?"

"I agree with Pinkie, what is your special talent darling?" Rarity asks in curiosity.

Sapphire immediately turns somber and looks down, saying nothing.

"Sapphire? Are you okay?" Derpy asks while noticing his demeanor.

"Well, I don't think I really have one..." He says sadly.

Everyone is shocked to hear that. "What? That can't be true! Everypony has one!" Twilight says adamantly.

Sapphire looks at them and sighs. "I do have one...but...it's not something I want to do..."

"Oh, Well why not?" Fluttershy asks quietly, Sapphire barely able to hear over the music.

"Yeah. What do ya have ta do ta get yer cutie mark?" Applejack asks as well.

Sapphire pauses. He knows they would have wanted to know eventually, and they have a right to since they are his friends.

"Well, in order to get it I have to...I have to..." He hesitates, not able to finish the sentence.

"Have to what?" Twilight urges.

Then he says one word that no one ever would have expected from him or anyone at all:

"Die."

Everyone is speechless. Sapphire has to die to get his cutie mark? That makes no sense! At this thought Twilight speaks up.

"That can't be right...if you died, then you couldn't see your cutie mark! That's against all reason! How can your special talent be to die?"

Sapphire shakes his head. "I don't know but that is what this spell shows me... I die and I earn it. I guess I will never know what my cutie mark looks like..."

"Ah can't believe that...why would...that makes no sense..." Applejack is fumbling with her words, too shocked at his revelation.

Sapphire doesn’t want them to be sad over it so he puts on a smile and speaks up.

"But hey I don't mind. Being blank doesn't really bother me. It's not like I'm not good at some things without it. Besides, as long as I have my friends, I'm happy." 

Everyone takes notice that he is trying to lift the mood and smiles. "Let's go back to the party! I have a surprise for all of you as well."

"A surprise? What is it?" Spike asks.

"You are about to find out." He says before turning and leaving the group of confused and curious ponies and a dragon.

Sapphire heads over to the DJ stand and walks up to the pony while she is rocking hard on a record table. She looks oddly familiar to him as he gets close. She has a white coat with a mane mixed with cobalt blue and cyan. She also has purple glasses on. Her cutie mark is a music note and Sapphire quickly ponders where he may have seen that familiar cutie mark. However he pushes that thought aside as he reaches her.

"Hello there!" Sapphire yells out to the DJ.

The DJ turns and stares right at Sapphire. A smile starts to creep on her face and out of nowhere she pounces on Sapphire, surprising him.

"H-Hey! What was that for?" He asks after recovering and looking up at her.

"Hey Saph, it's been a while." She says sensually in his ear.

He blushes at the way she had said that. "Uh, do I know you?" Sapphire asks while trying to remember her.

"So you run out on our threeway session that night and then you forget about me?

"Run out on you? What ar-" Suddenly it comes to him after seeing her eyes over the glasses. "Vinyl Scratch?"

She bops him on the nose. "Bingo! There you go. Guess ya do remember me. For your prize? How about we finish what we were about to start that day." She says sensually.

Sapphire hops away as quickly as possible, a large blush heavily encompassing his face. "I don't think that would be a good idea..."

Vinyl laughs at him and waves a hoof. "I'm just kiddin'. We can save that for later. So what's going on?"

Sapphire decides to ignore what she had said about saving it for later and speaks. "I was wondering if you can play a few specific songs for me."

She nods with a smile. "Sure, no problem. What are they?"

Sapphire focuses and makes a piece of paper and an ink feather appear out of a blue void nearby and starts writing out songs.

Vinyl moves back in surprise. "Whoa. I kinda forgot you could use magic."

Sapphire chuckles. "Heh, yeah.” It takes a moment before Sapphire hoofs over a slip of paper. “Here are the songs. Do you have them?"

She skims through them and looks up at him. "Yup I got ya covered. So what's in it for me?"

Sapphire is surprised for a second but then remembers that night and how the same thing is happening as that day when he had asked her for a favor as well. "Uh, what would you like?"

Vinyl smiles a mischievous smile. "I'll tell ya after the party. Do we have a deal?"

Sapphire hesitates. He doesn't have any clue to what she will want. However he knows he wants to have her play those songs. He sighs and gives in. "Alright fine but nothing dangerous."

"Don't worry, it's not bad." She says happily with a wink before she heads back to the stand.

"Thanks Vinyl!" Sapphire says with a smile.

She turns her head to him and smiles. "Don't thank me just yet!"

Sapphire then turns and heads back to the group. He is surprised to see them staring at him rather intently when he gets back.

"What were you and Vinyl doing over there? Looked like she knew you from the way she jumped on you." Dash says while eyeing him with a smirk.

Sapphire thinks he hears a little edge in her voice when she had said that but ignores it and nods in response. "Yeah, I met her at a club in Canterlot. She was with a mare named Octavia and we talked."

"Are ya sure ya only talked?" Applejack asks in a curious way.

Sapphire blushes at the thought of what Vinyl tried to have him do the last time they met. "Of course! That's it."

The group still eyes him suspiciously.

"A-Anyways are you all ready for the surprise?" Sapphire says trying to change the subject.

"What exactly is it darling?" Rarity asks taking the bait.

Sapphire smiles and looks towards the stage. He locks eyes- or eyes on glasses- with Vinyl. She nods before looking down. "You will see..."

All of a sudden the music changes and another type of song comes on. Everyone is surprised about the rather old song, but one specific pony likes it.

"Oh! I love this song!" Twilight says happily.

Sapphire smiles. "How about we go dance then Twilight?" He offers while extending a hoof.

Twilight blushes immediately. "I-I don't know. I'm not that great at dancing..."

"Then follow my lead and you will be fine." He says confidently.

"Well, okay." Twilight gives in while taking his hoof. They head to the dance floor, leaving everyone else behind.

"Hey! I thought this was a gift for everyone!" Sweetie Belle says while pouting.

"I agree I'm quite surprised." Rarity says with a frown.

Spike has a small idea of whats going on. "Just wait a second. I think I know where this is going." Spike says trying to calm the mares.

"Well, okay if you say so Spike." Scootaloo says while watching the two.

Meanwhile on the dance floor, Twilight is enjoying every minute of the dance. He leads her and she learns to follow and catches on surprisingly quickly. Soon, they are completely in sync. Twilight never even knew she could dance like this but all she does is follow Sapphire and everything works out smoothly. While they are dancing, Twilight looks at Sapphire and he smiles while looking at her. They end up both staring in each others eyes while dancing. Not too long after, the song ends and they hear stomping. They look around and notice they created quite a crowd. Sapphire makes a quick bow at Twilight which makes her blush and then motions towards Vinyl to toss him a mic. She happily does so. When he catches it, he speaks.

"That song was dedicated to my friend here you all know as the library bookworm Twilight!"

“Hey!” Twilight says while she glares at him with a blush on her face. He merely smiles at her.

"I actually have a few more songs I would like to play if that's okay with everyone here.” The crowd stomps their hooves and cheer, signifying their excitement. Sapphire smiles and continues. “This next song is a song I enjoyed back in Appleloosa! It's dedicated to two cowponies that are actually sisters! Come on over here Applejack and Apple Bloom and dance this next song with me." After he finishes, a black Stetson comes out of a blue void and lands on his head. “You aren't the only cowpony around here.”He says with a smile.

The music starts to play and a nice country song comes on that the two cowponies know immediately. They both happily rush to the dance floor.

"Yeehaw! Let's get this party started! Ya ready sis?" Applejack says in excitement.

"Sure am!" replies Apple Bloom with just as much excitement.

The two mares and Sapphire start to dance to the music. A few other ponies decide to jump in on the fun. They are hopping and skipping and having a good time. At the end, Applejack and Sapphire both throw their Stetsons in the air and they end up landing on the others head.

They laugh as they return each other's Stetson. After he got his, he makes a void appear and he puts it inside.

“That was a mighty nice choice in music. Didn't know ya had it in ya Saph.” Applejack says with a smile.

Sapphire chuckles. “You’d be surprised at how much I know when it comes to music.”

Apple Bloom happily walks over to Sapphire. "Thanks fer that Saph. That was really fun."

Sapphire smiles and nods. "Anytime." He then turns and grabs the mic.

"Whew, that was a good song right there. But I still have a few more up my sleeve. This next one is for the two coolest ponies in Ponyville! And it turns out I'm the third! So I will be dancing too. Dash and Scootaloo! Come on over and show everyone how awesome you both really are!"

All of a sudden a fast pace song comes on, one which the two mares know all too well.

"Aww yeah! Let's show em how it's done Scoots!" Rainbow says as she spread her wings.

Scootaloo copies her action. "Right behind ya Dash!"

They both dash to the dance floor, accompanying Sapphire and as soon as they do, they start dancing. They start sliding and gliding all across the dance floor. They even get on their hind legs and spread their wings out to keep them level while dancing like they are bipedal. Scootaloo decides to show a few tricks she learned from Dash in the past and starts to fly. She does loops before landing and starts to perform awesome moves. Dash smirks and decides to join in, performing similar moves with her. Sapphire also decides to jump in and takes flight, performing a few aerial moves himself while keeping himself only a few feet above the ground. Everyone is staring in awe and amazement. Shortly after, the song ends and Dash and Scoots are sweating. After they catch their breath, 
Dash smirks and extends a hoof at Scootaloo who immediately bumps hooves with her. She turns towards Sapphire and speaks. 

“Nice moves ya got there Saph.” She says with a hoof extended. Sapphire smiles and lifts his hoof to bump hers. 

“Thanks.” 

“Now that was awesome!” Scootaloo says happily. 

Sapphire chuckles before he turns and grabs the mic once again.

"You just got an awesome display of the three coolest ponies in Ponyville! But it's time to slow things down a bit. This next song is much slower and pretty old. I actually might need some help with this one. Preferably a purple and green dragon."

Spike jerks at that. "Who, me?"

Sapphire nods. "Yeah, unless you see any other dragons around."

Spike chuckles and nods. "What do you need my help for?"

"This next song requires a group of four. I need you to help me lead two gorgeous mares in this dance." Sapphire says as he walks over.

Spike smiles. "Sure. Who are the two mares?"

Sapphire smiles as well. "Why, Rarity and Sweetie Belle of course!"

The two mares are surprised at their names being said, but before they can say anything, the music comes on and it's a song that is played at the boutique quite often. Then they are met face to face with the pegasus and dragon: Spike in front of Rarity, and Sapphire in front of Sweetie Belle.

"Would you two grace us with a dance?" The two males ask simultaneously with a bow and extend a hoof/claw each.

Both mares blush slightly and giggle before agreeing, grabbing their partners hoof/claw and heading for the dance floor. As soon as the get there they immediately start to dance. Everyone starts to watch the pairs intensely; both Sapphire and Spike are leading the two mares and they follow flawlessly. The crowd soon becomes entranced by their dancing. They can't help but stare in awe as the pairs dance. Also during the song, they switch partners where Spike is with Sweetie Belle and Sapphire is with Rarity. They still perform amazingly, Spike even having an idea and separating the two before pulling Sweetie Belle close and lifting her high up before bringing her down in an excellent display. Sapphire notices this and decides to spice his routine up as well by twirling Rarity before letting go, sending her away but appearing on the other side thanks to his magic to catch her; also leaning down before pulling her up again. Rarity and Sweetie Belle are actually enjoying this the most. It feels like a fairy tale with them dancing with such a handsome dragon and stallion; the amazing dancing only making the experience even more remarkable. They make one final swap back to their original partners and the song comes to a slow close. Sapphire holds Sweetie Belle close and she merely lays her head on him and sighs happily. After the song ends, the pairs are side by side as the two males separate from their partners and perform a slight bow making the crowd cheer loudly. The two mares give their respected partner a peck on the cheek making them blush slightly before they walk off the dance floor. Sapphire then whispers to Spike.

"Hope you enjoyed that buddy." He says with a wink.

Spike nods with a satisfied smile. "Very much. Thanks for that."

They both chuckle before they bump limbs and Spike heads off as well. Sapphire takes the mic and speaks.

"That was pretty amazing if I say so myself. But I'm not done yet. This next song is a challenge. For who, you may ask? I challenge the biggest and best party pony in Equestria to a dance off: Pinkie Pie!"

Pinkie comes falling from the sky right in front of Sapphire. "You want a dance off? Then you got one!" Pinkie says happily and rather serious at the same time.

The music booms loudly at the start; It's a fast paced song but not as fast as the song earlier. Pinkie starts it off by doing all kinds of sliding and bouncing that excites the crowd. After she finishes, Sapphire comes in and does some dance moves of his own. He starts moving smoothly as he slides across the floor, also doing a few flips and twists. The crowd is enjoying it a lot. After he finishes, Pinkie comes back and starts spinning and doing things others didn't think is possible for a pony. The crowd is both surprised and awestruck. After she lands her last move, Sapphire once again comes in and surprises them also. He starts gliding and spinning, using his wings to give him a boost for each twirl and spin. Suddenly Pinkie jumps in and they both start dancing together, making everyone cheer out for them. After the song ends, The crowd is even louder than the music, applauding and cheering the two. The two ponies smile at each other and bump hooves. 

“We will call that a draw for now.” Pinkie says with a silly smirk. 

Sapphire chuckles. “Sounds good to me.” 

Pinkie happily hops back to the group. Afterwards, he picks up the mic.

"Wow. Now that was some amazing dance moves! But I wouldn't expect anything less from the best party pony in Equestria. Now this next one is a song dedicated to a certain friend that has a mane color similar to the rose that I have on my ear. And she also has a rose that is the same color as my mane." Sapphire says as he points to the rose. "Can anyone see her?"

Everyone looks around and takes notice of who he is talking about. Even their friends don't notice at first.

"Come on over Derpy and let me see how you can dance."

Derpy smiles and happily walks over to him. When she gets to him, the song starts. The song definitely surprises everyone. But Derpy knows this song well. She grows excited and pulls Sapphire to her and starts to dance. A lot of ponies enjoyed this song and decide to jump in. Derpy and Sapphire were mainly just enjoying each other's company for this song, and dancing all goofy. Derpy takes an opportunity to bump Sapphire with her flank as they are dancing. Sapphire has an idea and teleports away, surprising Derpy. She looks for him until she suddenly feels him bump her softly on the other side. She giggles lightly before dancing with him, trying to be as close as possible, even nuzzling him a few times. Sapphire has to admit he is enjoying this very much. Even though he is making guesses, the mares all seem to like the songs he has picked so far. After the song ends, everyone except Derpy and Sapphire walk off the floor, thinking Sapphire might have more planned. Derpy happily pulls him into a hug.

"Thanks Saph." Derpy says sweetly.

Sapphire nuzzles her happily. "Anytime for my best friend."

She giggles happily before she turns and walks back to the others. He grabs the mic once more and speaks.

"That was fun. But it's now time to slow things down a bit again. This is the last one where I'm going to actually dance since I am getting a little tired, but there is still more to come!"

Sapphire turns and walks over to his friends.

"Go ahead and start it Vinyl." He says in the mic. She nods and plays the next song. It's slower than the others and rather peaceful. Sapphire then walks up to the only mare friend he hasn't danced with.

"Fluttershy?" He calls out.

She turns to him with half of her face hidden.”Y-Yes?"

"Will you honor me with a dance?" He asks with a smile and a hoof extended towards her.

The shy mare blushes hard at the thought of dancing with him and looks down. "Oh, I don't know...I'm not really good at dancing...I don't want to embarrass you..."

The drink Sapphire had earlier gives him courage to be bold and he gently lifts her chin to look at him. Once she makes eye contact, he smiles. "I don't mind. When I'm with you, everything else tends to disappear anyways. I just want to have fun with my friend."

Fluttershy starts blushing even more, her face turning a dark crimson. "A-Are you sure? You don't mind dancing with me?"

"Nothing would make me happier right now Shy." He says genuinely.

With this she smiles and hesitantly extends her hoof slowly. He grabs her hoof and pulls her gently towards the dance floor. When they get there, Sapphire gets on his hind legs and pulls her up as well, holding her close. This surprises her at first and she doesn't think she can maintain balance that way, until Sapphire whispers in her ear.

"Don't worry, I got you. I won't let you fall."

She smiles and relaxes, enjoying the moment in his embrace, her head resting on him. To them, it feels like they are in their own little world. All they can hear is the music and the sound of their hooves while they are moving. A little in their dance, Fluttershy notices his wings are out along with hers and it helps steady them. She removes her head and stares into his eyes with a small blush and smile. He does the same. He becomes lost in those beautiful cyan eyes, and he doesn't look away even if he could. They are so lost in their own world that they don't notice the song ends. However they do hear someone whistle which snaps them out of it. They look around and notice everyone staring at them with smiles and a few smirks, some even whistling at them. At that they both pull away, blushing in embarrassment. Before Fluttershy leaves the floor she looks at him once more and smiles. 

“That was wonderful Sapphire. Thank you.” 

Hearing her words makes his blush intensify and he doesn't get to say anything before Fluttershy quickly rushes back to the others. Sapphire decides to pick up the mic, blush still intact.

"I have to admit, that was pretty amazing.” He says with a smile while looking at the mare. She quickly hides her face behind her mane at the eye contact. He chuckles slightly and continues. “Well that's it for me dancing. Now I have a special request for a specific pony."

Everyone grows silent, waiting for who he’s going to say. Sapphire instead walks up to the group, standing in front of a specific mare.

"Sweetie Belle, would you like to do me the honor of singing two songs?"

Hearing him ask that surprises everyone, including Sweetie Belle, however she isn't against the idea at all.

"Sure, I'd be happy to!" Sweetie Belle says happily.

Sapphire is actually slightly surprised at her quick agreement to singing, but says nothing as she takes the mic and heads to the stage. Sweetie Belle herself is actually excited to sing and even more thrilled Sapphire wants to hear it. 

“This could be my chance..” She says quietly and nods at the DJ. Vinyl plays the first song and Sweetie Belle smiles, knowing this song all too well. She brings the mic to her lips and then begins to sing: 


"High dive into frozen waves where the past comes back to life.

Fight fear for the selfish pain, it was worth it every time.

Hold still right before we crash cause we both know how this ends.

A clock ticks till it breaks your glass and I drown in you again."


Sapphire is in awe. Wow. Her voice is beautiful… He thought as he admires her. He has to admit it's one of the sweetest voices Sapphire has ever heard. He merely stands there in a trance as she sings:


"Cause you are, a piece of me I wish I didn't need

Chasing relentlessly, still fight but I don't know why.

If our love is tragedy, why are you my remedy?

If our love's insanity, why are you my clarity?"


Sapphire is still amazed at her voice. He listens intently to her sing until she finishes the song. He is a little disappointed it's over but he knows she is willing to sing another. Everyone cheers and applauds when she finishes making her smile and bow slightly.

Sapphire walks up to her and grabs a second mic. "That was amazing Sweetie Belle! It was so great that I was hoping you could do another."

Sweetie Belle smiles. "Of course! Just give me the music."

Sapphire smiles and nods. "Okay, and for the record this will be my last requested song."

And with that, the song starts. It surprises everyone, including Sweetie Belle. She knows this song well, but it has parts where a male has to sing that she isn't familiar with. When her cue comes, she decides to just skip the male parts and begins.


"If I should die before I wake, it's cause you took my breath away.

Losing you is like living in a world with no air."

"I'm here alone didn't want to leave. My heart won't move it's incomplete

Wish there was a way that I can make you understand."


Everyone present freeze in shock as they see Sapphire sing. Sweetie belle is surprised too but she can't stop to admire it because she has to sing her part. She smiles wide and continues.


"But how do you expect me to live alone with just me,

Cause my world revolves around you and it's so hard for me to breathe"

"Tell me how I'm supposed to breathe with no air.

Can't live can't breathe with no air.

Its how I feel whenever you ain't there,

No air, No air."


Their voices in unison are amazing and everyone becomes awestruck. All of Sapphire's friends are in a state of admiration as well. Twilight is fixed on them with wide eyes in a trance, Fluttershy is blushing and hiding her face with her mane looking between Sapphire and the ground frantically. Pinkie is giggling and surprisingly blushing as well. Applejack is trying to hide her blush with her Stetson, failing miserably. Rarity is fanning herself with a fan in her magic while watching with a deep interest. Dash's tongue is out and her wings are extended. Derpy's wings are extended as well but she’s looking at the ground blushing and scuffing the floor. Apple Bloom is merely gawking at them, and Scootaloo has her jaw hanging, staring at Sweetie Belle and Sapphire in surprise. Even Vinyl is staring intently at them, but mostly Sapphire. Spike is just looking at them all with amusement.

When they finish, the crowd starts roaring, which snaps the group out of their trance. The crowd is both whistling and shouting their names. 

Sweetie Belle adores the praise. She has always enjoyed singing and now with him, it actually makes her love it more. With excitement, she trots over to Sapphire.

"Wow, you are a great singer Saph! I think you should get a cutie mark for singing that great!" She says happily.

Sapphire chuckles. "I don't think so. Actually, that cutie mark seems to be taken already by you, Sweetie Belle."

Sweetie Belle grows confused. "Huh? What do you-" she starts, but when she turns and sees something, she freezes.

On her once blank flank is a microphone with music notes around it. It also has two bells tied around the mic.

"I GOT MY CUTIE MARK! I GOT MY CUTIE MARK!" She screeches happily and runs towards the group of friends, surprising them. Sapphire nods at the DJ with a smile and she nods back before shuffling the music again to random songs. He then turns and heads over to his friends.

"Wow, that's an awesome cutie mark Sweetie Belle!" Scootaloo says while examining it.

"That means your special talent is singin'!" Apple Bloom says in awe while also looking at it.

"So you knew all along that she’s getting her cutie mark today Sapphire?" Rarity asks him as he comes over.

Sapphire nods. "Yeah, as I said, it's something I enjoy as well."

"And very good at..." Derpy mumbles. Pinkie giggles at  hearing it.

Sweetie Belle admires her cutie mark for a moment longer before turning to Sapphire with a big smile.  "Thank you so much Saph!" She says happily while jumping towards him and hugging him.

He smiles happily as he returns the hug. "You're welcome. It's a really cool cutie mark.”

She pulls back and looks him in the eyes at that with a small blush. Then something unexpected happens: she moves forward and presses her lips against his. 

Everyone's jaw drops at seeing this. Sapphire froze on the spot with wide eyes, however the feeling he gets from her kissing him feels amazing and he doesn't pull away.

Sweetie Belle herself feels a jolt go through her body at the touch. And even though she doesn't want to, after a moment she pulls away.

When she does pull away, Sapphire is redder than Applejack's apples and extremely flustered.

"W-what w-was t-t-that f-for?" He barely manages to say.

"It's my way of thanking you." Sweetie Belle says while blushing and looking down.

Sapphire can't manage anything else. He’s frozen from the feeling of her soft lips that were pressed on his. This is the first time he has ever felt such a thing.

"Hey! You can't just do things like that!" Apple Bloom says with a frown.

Sweetie Belle rolls her eyes. "You're one to talk. You kissed him first."

Apple Bloom blushes. "That was on the cheek! Lips is completely different."

"Y-yea and he wanted to save that for a special somepony..." Derpy says, growing quieter by each word.

"Well, he said he considers us all special, so I decided I will be the first to do it. It was my first kiss too!" Sweetie Belle says with a huge blush while still looking down. "Besides, I'm sure he liked it. Right, Sapphire?"

Sapphire says nothing for a moment. His blush is even redder by hearing all that she has said if that's possible. But after a moment, he finally speaks up.

"Uh, I did, but well...I'm kinda parched from all that stuff I did so, I'm going to get a drink real quick." He says quickly and teleports away before anyone can respond. 

He appears next to the snack table and decides to take a lot of 'Adult' punch and down it. After, He grabs a brownie and devours it. After more brownies and a few more cups of the spiked beverage, he becomes tipsy. He decides to get some fresh air, so he walks rather clumsily outside.

When he gets outside, he notices it's dark out. He smiles.

He loves the night. It's always more peaceful than the days. He would always lay outside in the past and enjoy the sights of the stars and the moon casting a glow on everything.

"Another beautiful night. Princess Luna did an amazing job tonight..." He says out loud.

"Oh? A fan of Princess Luna?"

Sapphire turns around and sees a lavender unicorn looking at him with a smirk.

Sapphire smiles and merely turns back to look at the sky again. "To be honest, I am. These nights she creates are beautiful Twilight. Though, I would say one of the few things more beautiful than this night is her herself.” 

Sapphire’s eyes grow wide, ”Wait, did I say that out loud?" He facehooves himself at that. "Aww crud I drank too much."

Twilight giggles and walks over to sit next to him.

"It's fine. The princesses are beautiful. No one would fault you if you thought that. However, if you perhaps had a crush or something like that on her, then ponies would say something."

Sapphire blushes and looks down. Twilight notices it and eyes him.  "You have a crush on her don't you?"

Sapphire plays with his hooves. "Maybe just a little one."

Twilight stars giggling. "Good luck with that mare Sapphire."

Sapphire waves his hooves in the air. "I know I have no chance but a colt can dream can't he?"

Twilight smiles. "Yup! And who knows? She might come in your dreams to say ``hi."

Sapphire's eyes grow wide at the idea. "She can do that?"

She giggles. "Of course. After all, She is the queen of the night and dreams."

Sapphire looks down. "I'd be too flustered In my dreams if I saw her there."

Twilight smiles. "So is Luna the only one you like?"

Sapphire blushes. "Well, not really. There are others...but I'd rather not say..."

Twilight looks at him with a brow raised. "Oh? And why not?"

"Because." Sapphire says simply.

"Because what?" Twilight continues curiously.

Sapphire turns away. "Because it's a secret."

She looks at him for a moment longer but then sighs. "Okay. I'll leave it at that." Twilight says before looking back into the sky.

Sapphire smiles and looks up as well. He then feels warmth on his shoulder and turns to see Twilight had laid her head on him. He smiles and wraps a hoof around her, then starts to run his hoof through her mane. He realizes she likes it by how she cooes quietly. They merely stay like that for a while until they hear a voice.

"There you two are!"

The pair turns around to see all their friends at the entrance.

"Hey! No fair Twilight!" Sweetie Belle says while running over to them. She immediately lays on the other side of Sapphire and cuddles on him. He starts blushing slightly but doesn't move away.

"Hey! I wanna join too!" Pinkie says and hops over to the three, getting next to Twilight and cuddling on her.

The others decide to join in as well. Rarity sits next to her sister and Spike sits near her. Dash and Scootaloo lay down in front of Pinkie and Twilight. Derpy decides to lay on Sapphire's back, trying to be as close as she can. Fluttershy likes the idea and joins her, cuddling up to each other as well. Applejack and Apple Bloom sit in front of Rarity and Sweetie Belle. They all stay that way, enjoying each other's company and the night sky. After a while, Sapphire remembers something.

"It's funny that the party was for me and I'm not even in there."

Everyone jumps up, realizing the same thing.

"Yeah, we should probably head back in." Twilight says in embarrassment.

They all agree and decide to head in. Sapphire is the last to get up, still admiring the night for a bit longer. Once he starts to head in as well, Sapphire hears something faint. It sounds to him like a muffled yell. He pauses and decides to go and investigate.

He walks to the direction of the noise. He passes a nightclub that is still going on but can barely hear the sounds from inside. He figures they may have put a sound barrier around the building as to not bother others. As he looks at it, he suddenly hears a voice.

"Let go of me! My dad is Filthy Rich! If he finds out you mmmph!"

Sapphire traces the voice to an alley. He looks down it and sees four ponies dressed in black with face covers dragging two ponies away.

"Wow. Are you guys seriously kidnapping ponies?"

The ponies stop and look toward Sapphire, the mares coming into view, tied up with tape on their maws. "Who are you kid? Buzz off before you get hurt!"

Sapphire walks forward. "And leave these two beautiful mares to get kidnapped? I don't think so-wait did I just say beautiful?" He shakes his head. "Dang I need to watch what I say more..."

Sapphire takes notice of one of the ponies rushing him. The pony tries to swing at him, but Sapphire easily dodges and throws a hard back hoof to his head, knocking him to the wall.

"You shouldn't attack someone when they are talking; It's bad manners." He says to the surprisingly unconscious pony. He then turns to his surprised accomplices. "Now for the rest of you, let them go and walk away. You have three seconds."

"Who do you think you are punk?"

Sapphire began counting. "Three...."

"We aren't afraid of you boy!"

"Two..."

"You don't scare us squirt!"

"And One."

"Might as well stop counting. We're not going any-"

The crook couldn't finish his sentence. Sapphire immediately dashes at him and smashes a hoof right in his face before he can even realize it and it sends him flying back several feet. Sapphire then does a back kick into another crook, hitting him in the gut and  knocking him away from one of the mares. He catches the mare and lays her down. He then turns to the last one holding the other mare.

"And then there was one. If you don't want to get hurt, I suggest you place the mare down and leave."

He does just that and quickly runs to the other side of the alley and disappears. Sapphire sighs and turns to the two mares. He uses his magic to cut off the ropes and remove the tape from their mouths. He removes the tape slow as to not make it painful. Once he takes the blindfolds off, he speaks.

"Are you two okay?" Sapphire asks.

They both get up and dust themselves off. Sapphire gets a good look at them now. One has a gray coat with a lighter gray mane tied in a braid. She has light purple eyes and a cutie mark of a spoon. She is also wearing a bead necklace. The other has a pink coat with a light purple mane and a white stripe going through it. She has aqua eyes that Sapphire finds to be pretty cute. Her cutie mark looks like a tiara. He notices they are both earth ponies.

“She reminds me of...no. It can't be..." He mumbles while staring at the pink earth pony.

"Yeah we are fi... Wait, where are my glasses?" The gray mare says in slight panic.

"Oh no! My tiara! It's gone!" Exclaims the pink pony in full panic.

Sapphire notices the two items in question on the floor spilling from a bag and gives them to their respective owners.

"Here you go." Sapphire says with a smile.

"Thanks." Says the gray pony.

The other pony merely takes her tiara and puts it on. When they get their bearings, they merely stare at him.

Sapphire feels slightly uncomfortable from their staring, so he speaks up. "Well, I guess I should go. Stay safe you two." He says as he turns to leave.

"Wait!" The gray pony says with a hoof extended to him.

Sapphire stops and turns to them. "Yes?"

The pony pauses before speaking up. "Well, I was wondering if you could maybe walk with us home. Who knows if more of those idiots will show up."

"Sure, I don't mind." Sapphire says with a smile.

"We don't need this blank flanks help Silver. We will be fine." The pink pony says flatly. Hearing that makes Sapphire frown. He has never been called that before.

The gray pony looks at her and frowns as well. "Diamond, we don't know if more crooks will come. He just saved us. He could at least get us home in one piece." The gray pony surmises.

The pink mare rolls her eyes. "Whatever."

She sighs before turning to Sapphire. "Sorry about that. She is a little grumpy. I'm Silver Spoon, and this is Diamond Tiara. What's your name?"

Sapphire smiles. "It's fine. And my name's Dark Sapphire or Saph for short.

Both of their eyes grow wide. "Wait you're Sapphire?" Diamond asks.

He nods. "Yeah. I'm guessing you've heard of me?"

"Well of course! You saved the whole town from those creatures! You are like a hero here." Silver says with a smile.

"Oh, well thanks." Sapphire says happily and a little embarrassed.

"But you can't be him. They said he used magic but you're a pegasus. You can't use magic." Diamond says with a frown.

Sapphire shrugs. "I guess you didn't hear everything about me."

"What do you mean?" Silver asks curiously.

"I can use magic." He says simply.

"What? Yeah right! Prove it." Diamond says, not convinced.

He then proceeds to lift the tiara with his magic and hover it in front of them.

They stare at the object and at the pegasus in shock.

"How can you be a pegasus and use magic?" Silver asks.

Sapphire shakes his head. "To be honest, I don't know. I was born this way I guess. It's best if I just accept it."

"A blank flank that's a pegasus but can use magic. Now I've seen it all." Diamond says while rolling her eyes.

Sapphire starts to get a little irritated and hurt by her words. She is behaving just like  ponies in other cities he has been in. He prefers to stay away from this mare.

"It seems like I'm not wanted here so I guess I'll just be going." He says while replacing the tiara and turning to leave.

"Wait! You don't have to go!" Silver says quickly.

Sapphire stops and sighs. "I'm sorry, but I prefer to stay away from ponies that act the way your friend is." 

After saying that he walks away, turns a corner and leaves...well from their perspective.

Once he’s gone Silver Spoon turns to her friend. "Way to go Diamond. What if we get attacked again?" Silver says with irritation.

"They won't be dumb enough to repeat a kidnapping. Plus they got me by surprise. I'm sure I could have handled it myself." Diamond says flatly as she starts to walk.

Silver rolls her eyes. "Oh please Diamond! You couldn't even handle your way out of a fish net."

"That was one time!" Diamond yells with a blush as she stomps a hoof in embarrassment.

They are soon out of the alley and start going through a park, still conversing with a hint of argument here and there.

"They weren't that strong by themselves. They just overwhelmed us. Plus they were just kidnapping us for the money." Diamond says simply.

"Regardless, if there were more of them, they could easily overpower us." Silver says.

"Like this many?"

The two mares jump at the familiar dangerous voice and turn to see five crooks in front of them. Behind them, four more appear. All of them are unicorns this time.

"I came back with a few friends to take care of that chump, but it turns out he isn't around. I guess we can take you without any resistance." The pony that escaped says with a crooked smile.

"Dang, and I was hoping to get that guy back. Our other two guys are still unconscious. He got a lucky hit off of me. Oh well, we can still get our money for this." Says another familiar crook.

"You won't take me that easily!" Diamond says angrily before she rushes a crook. She gets close and slams a hoof into his face.

"Ugh! You Bitch!" He retaliates by swinging a hoof of his own fast, hitting her square in the face, knocking her away and drawing some blood.

"Diamond!" Silver says in a panic while running to her. "Are you okay?"

She grunts from the pain before looking at Silver. "I guess I should have listened to you. We might need a little help. Turns out these guys are dumber than I gave them credit for."

"Hey bitch! Who you callin dumb?" A crook says  angrily before kicking her in the side, the blow knocking her away from Silver Spoon.

“Diamond!” Silver Spoon says before running over and standing between Diamond Tiara from the angry crook.

“Back off losers!” She says angrily.

“Losers? You two have some crappy mouths.” Says one of the crooks.

"I think we need to roughen them up a bit." Another spat with a smirk.

They proceed towards the two mares and both mares become frightened, afraid of what they might do to them. Silver out of fear whispers something.

"Sapphire...help us..."

As those words leave her lips, suddenly a blue aura engulfs her and Diamond. They panic, thinking the crooks are using magic on them and close their eyes tightly, expecting the worst..

But when nothing happens for a moment to them, they open their eyes to see that they were lifted in the air above the crooks, moving away. They look toward the direction they are going and see a familiar pegasus. They land behind him and he smiles back at them. .

"Hey girls. Glad I made it in time." He says with a wink.

"Sapphire? You came back? Why?" Silver Spoon asks.

Sapphire shrugs. "I just had a strange feeling I should check up on you two. Glad I did."

"I am glad you did too! Thanks." Silver says happily.

"Yeah..." Diamond says quietly.

Sapphire smiles and nods. "You're welcome. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to hurt a few ponies that hit a mare and called her a name that should never be spoken to such a cute mare."

Both are surprised at his statement. "You..think I'm cute?" Diamond asks looking at him.

Sapphire blushes slightly and rubs his mane. "Well, in all honesty I think you two are very cute...aww crud! I said that aloud again!” He says and facehooves. ”No more alcohol tonight..." He says while turning away.

They start blushing as well from his compliment, but before they can say anything, the crooks catch up to them.

"Hey it's that bastard from earlier! I'm gonna enjoy this!" Says one crook.

"You four got beat up by this kid? He looks weak!" Laughs another crook.

"Well it won't happen again. I won't hold back this time!" Says the one from earlier.

Sapphire sighs. "Listen guys, I really don't feel like fighting or dragging this out so just take your best shot so I can prove you're not strong enough to hurt me."

The crook in the middle speaks up. "Punk, you have a lot of courage. Alright then, but don't blame us if you die."

Sapphire shrugs. "Don't plan on dying."

"Tch. Alright boys let's kill this kid."

Suddenly, all of their horns began to glow at once. A ball starts forming above them. Sapphire realizes It’s a large amount of destructive magic and it's getting bigger by the second.

"This ball has enough strength to decimate an entire town! But, we need this town standing so we’ll focus the force on your face. Let's see you handle it runt!" Says a crook.

The two mares look at the ball in horror. If that can do what they say it can do, they will be in a lot of trouble.  They turn to Sapphire and take notice that he isn't even fazed. In fact, he's smiling which surprises them.

"A whole town huh? Sounds interesting. Haven't fought anything that strong in one attack in a while. Well, might as well get my attack ready then."

He then closes his eyes. A second later he opens them and they are glowing. An aura appears around him also but it looks different than other normal ones the mares noticed before. He then proceeds to turn around and face the mares. He smiles at them before getting on his hind legs. He then slams his forelegs down, digging them inches into the ground. The mares stare at him in confusion.

"Alright guys, whenever ya ready." Sapphire says with a smirk.

"This punk is messing with us! Show no mercy on this bastard!" They then launch the large destructive magic ball towards Sapphire. The mares look at him with pleading eyes.

He smiles at them. "Don't worry. I won't let anything happen to you, I promise."

As the ball gets close, Sapphire’s legs start to glow white.

"Take this, Forbidden spell 13, Shockwave!"

He kicks at the air hard, sending a large shockwave towards them. The ball reverses its direction from the force and flies high into the sky. The crooks get blown back, injured by the force of the attack. After a few seconds, the ball of energy explodes in the sky in large electric sparks.

Sapphire admires the little light show in the sky and speaks up. "That wasn't so bad. Nice firework display guys." He looks at the crooks again. "Now if we’re done here I want you to apologize to Diamond for hitting her and calling her that name. Then I'll let you be on your way." Sapphire says with a smug smile, the alcohol making him want to show off more than he should.

The crooks struggle to their hooves, one speaking up angrily. "I won't apologize for nothin! That damn mare is an annoying bitch!"

"Yeah! Both of them are a couple of snobby bitches with stuck up rich families!" Another says while pointing to them.

"Those trashy families need to be taught a lesson so we are taking their precious children and will force them to cough up thousands of bits to get them back!" Says a third as he gets in a fighting stance.

"Yeah! Especially that pink bitch and her idiot father!" The first crook says with a dark smile.

The two mares stare in horror at the mean insults the crooks just threw at them. They don’t think any of it is true, but to think somepony hates them this much and hearing the insults actually cuts deep. But before they can defend themselves, somepony else speaks up instead.

"SHUT UP!!!"

The crooks and the mares are surprised by the outburst. Both mares notice Sapphire is shaking, anger in his eyes. They don’t understand however, why he is getting so mad. The crooks are talking about them, not him.

"You getting mad punk?" Says a crook with a smirk.

"I'm done being nice to crappy people like you! I swear to Celestia if you insult them one more time, you will experience the worst type of pain!" Sapphire shouts in fury. His eyes start to glow and the aura appears around him once again.

The crooks merely laugh at his threat. "Aww the squirt is getting mad that we are insulting his little friends!"

"Yeah. His little snobby friends must be so important to him." One coos jokingly with a crooked smile.

"They still bitchy kids though." One says with a shrug, smirking at him.

"Bitch." One says teasingly and the others jump in as well.

"Sluts."

"Trash."

Sapphire can’t believe how disgusting these crooks are. He feels like he is on fire from all the rage he has from their words. He grits his teeth in anger as he speaks to the mares. "Girls, please turn your heads. I'd rather you not see this." He says softly.

Both mares merely nod and turn their heads looking down and away. Meanwhile they hear another crook speak up.

"Oh you gonna do somet-"

"Forbidden spell 12, Death dance."

A strong wind hits the girls. Next thing they hear makes them shiver. They hear sounds like bones breaking and the crooks yelling in pain from being hit. After a few more seconds, it gets quiet. They turn to look and see the aftermath.

Every single one of the crooks are beaten to a pulp; All unconscious. Some have obvious broken bones, while others have hoof bruises everywhere on their bodies. They also notice Sapphire pull three ropes out of seemingly nowhere and ties the crooks up in sets of three. After he is done, he turns and walks over to them.

Sapphire rubs his head sheepishly as he gets close. "Sorry about that girls. I lost my temper at what they were saying. I can't stand ponies like that..."

Before he can say more, Silver rushes him and throws her hooves around him.

"Thank you Sapphire! You saved us again." Silver says happily, very thankful for all his help.

He smiles and returns the hug. "You're welcome."

Diamond merely stares at them with a raised brow. She is about to speak up, but a voice calls out from behind her.

"Sapphire!"

The three ponies turn and are surprised as they see ten ponies and a dragon running towards them.

Sapphire waves at them. "Oh, hey everyone. Sorry I just up and disappeared on you."

Spike immediately takes notice of the two mares.

"Diamond Tiara? Silver Spoon? What are you two doing with Sapphire?"

As he says this, Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle run in between him and the two mares, glaring at them.

"Ya over here messin with our friend?" Apple Bloom says angrily.

"Yeah! You better have not been teasing him!" Sweetie Belle yells with just as much fury.

Sapphire is surprised at how hostile they seem towards them. "Whoa calm down girls. They had a little trouble so I helped them out."

"Trouble? What kind of trouble?" Twilight speaks up curiously.

Silver Spoon answers. "We were kidnapped and Sapphire saved us." She says while pointing behind Sapphire.

They look in the direction she is pointing and see nine ponies tied up. Dash flew over to them.

"Yeah, they were trying to take them for a ransom so I decided to roughen them up a little..." He says growing quiet.

"A little? Ha! You beat the stuffing out of them!" Dash laughs while examining them. Twilight heads over to look as well and is surprised.

"Wow, they are beaten up pretty badly. You didn't seem to hold back much."

Sapphire frowns and looks down. "Yeah, I apologize. It's just that when they hit Diamond and kept insulting them, I kinda...snapped. I was so angry I used a forbidden spell on them."

Everyone snap their heads to Sapphire at that in surprise.

"What? You did? I'm surprised they are still alive." Scootaloo says eyeing the bodies again.

Sapphire frowns at that. "I'm not a killer. I just wanted to make sure they couldn't move."

"I think those idiots deserved it."

Everyone turns to look at Diamond and notice the indifferent look on her face.

"They were annoying calling me those names. They deserve worse actually. But whatever." She says while rolling her eyes.

"Diamond, you didn't even thank him." Silver says walking up to her.

"Why would I thank a blank flank?" She says flatly.

At this, the three younger mares storm angrily to the pink pony, inches from her face.

"DON'T YOU EVER CALL HIM THAT AGAIN!" They yell, practically screaming her head off.

Diamond flinches and leans back. "What's your problem?"

"What's our problem? What's YOURS?" Scootaloo says angrily.

"He comes an' saves yer sorry flank from gettin' hauled ta Celestia knows where and all ya can think of is insulting him?" Apple Bloom says with disgust.

"You're the worst Diamond! And don't you ever call him that again!" Sweetie Belle says, fuming.

Sapphire is in awe. He didn't understand why they are so angry towards her in the beginning but he knows now why they were angry. He snaps out of it and realizes he needs to calm them down.

"Hey girls, it's fine. It doesn't bother me." He says trying to calm them.

The three turn to him with frowns on all their faces. "But it bothers us!" Scootaloo objects, surprising him.

"Yeah! She has no right to be calling ya that when she don't know why ya are the way ya are!" Apple Bloom adds.

"Isn't it because he hasn't found his special talent?" Silver Spoon says assuming the obvious.

The three turn to her and glare at her, but not as menacing as they were with Diamond.

"No, it's because he doesn't have one." Sweetie Belle says firmly.

Silver's and Diamond's eyes grow wide. "What? How is that possible? Everypony has one!"

The three fillies frown. "Well, he could get one but he has to die to earn it..." Sweetie Belle says sadly.

The two mares’ maws drop at that revelation. They can't believe what they are hearing.

"That can't be true! How do you even know this?" Silver Spoon says with doubt.

Sapphire speaks up. “I told them. I actually know a spell that can tell me how ponies have earned their cutie mark, as well as show me how ponies will earn theirs."

"Really? Can you prove that?" Silver Spoon says, still doubting such a possibility.

"Sure." Sapphire nods before his eyes start to glow for a few seconds, soon stopping. "Silver I can see you got your cutie mark because your father allowed you to mold silver for the first time and you made a spoon perfectly, showing your talent in molding silver. Diamond, you earned yours when you got that tiara for your birthday by your dad because you demanded for it when you turned ten and I assume you've treasured it since."

The two are shocked that he knows this.

Silver Spoon speaks up after a moment. "That's right...so what Sweetie Belle said..."

Sapphire nods but smiles. "Yeah, it's true. I don't mind though, really."

Silver Spoon turns to Diamond Tiara. "Diamond, I think you should apologize."

"Why?" She says indignantly.

Silver Spoon snaps. "DIAMOND!!"

Seeing her friend yell angrily at her makes her flinch. Silver Spoon has never yelled at her like that before. She sighs and rolls her eyes. Sapphire notices this. "Sorry that-"

"No Diamond, I'd rather you not say that." He speaks up, cutting her off.

She looks at him in confusion.  "Oh really? And why not?"

He frowns at her. "Because you don't mean it."

Before she can reply, he turns around and walks away. The others decide to head back as well. The crusader trio that are near the two mares cast a quick glare towards Diamond Tiara before walking away as well. As they leave, Diamond Tiara takes notice of Sweetie Belle’s cutie mark.

"Seems like one of the blank flanks finally got her cutie mark." Diamond Tiara says with a smirk. "Although mine is still better."

"I can't believe you..."

Diamond Tiara turns to Silver Spoon in confusion. "What do you mean?"

"What do I mean? WHAT DO I MEAN?!? Do you not see what you just did?? I can't believe you Diamond! I never thought you could be this heartless!"

Diamond Tiara is taken aback by this. "Heartless? Don't you think that's a little much Silver?"

Silver Spoon stares angrily at her friend, tears welling up in her eyes. "I always knew you were bad Diamond Tiara, but I never thought you would stoop this low. He saved our lives for Celestia's sake! The least you could have done is thanked him!"

Diamond Tiara starts to feel a little guilty. "I-I was going to but..."

"But you didn't mean it; Even he noticed that!" Silver Spoon looks down, not even able to look her in the eyes at the moment. "I've forgiven a lot of things that you have done before Diamond, but this one is too low, even for you...at least I thought that. But you proved me wrong...I'm going home." she says before she turns away and starts towards home.

Diamond Tiara hesitates and walks after her. "Silver, you're not gonna forgive me? What about the promise we made to stay friends forever?"

Silver Spoon stops in her tracks, making Diamond Tiara stop. She slightly turns her head towards her, but doesn’t look at Diamond. "Right now I'm wondering if I should keep that promise..." She says quietly and turns to walk away.

Diamond feels tears welling up in her eyes after hearing that. She never thought this could ever happen; she was about to lose her best friend, her only friend. She has never wanted to be friends with anyone else because she has her. Something in her snaps and she starts to cry hard all alone in the park with no one to blame but herself...






"So how did you guys find me?" Sapphire asks as they are walking back.

"Well, I noticed you didn't come in when we did and when I looked outside you were gone. I checked around for a bit but didn't see you. So I ran inside to get the others." Twilight starts.

"When we all came back outside, we saw this giant magical ball of destructive magic floating out of nowhere going towards the park." Sweetie Belle says as she points in the sky.

"But before we could do anything, suddenly we saw a huge shockwave push it away and knew it was you so we rushed over." Scootaloo says with a hint of excitement.

Sapphire rubs his neck sheepishly. "Yeah, sorry about that. I should have told you guys but I thought they might have gotten away by then."

Sapphire notices Fluttershy shake her head. "Don't be. You saved two ponies because of that. I think you did what was best.." 

"Although I can't stand that it had to be those two." Scootaloo says with mild irritation.

Sapphire picks up on her irritation. "Do you not like them or something?"

"No, we don't like them." Apple Bloom says flatly.

Sapphire looks at them in confusion. "Why? I don't care that I don't have a cutie mark."

"That's not the only reason we don't like them. Although what Diamond said did tick me off, she does the same to us at school about us not having our cutie marks and had always messed with us for years." Sweetie Belle explains.

Sapphire is surprised. "What? Really? Wow. I can't see that from Silver. Diamond more so though."

"Silver doesn't do all that much. She just follows Diamond around like a minion or something. I don't know why though. Even other ponies don't seem to like them much." Scootaloo says while shrugging.

Sapphire frowns at hearing this. "So, they don't have friends beside each other?"

"Pretty much." Apple Bloom surmises.

Sapphire doesn't like that answer. Although they have each other, having only one friend to confide in sometimes is not enough. He knows that first hoof since he didn't really have anyone before. If your one friend isn't around, then you would be alone.

"Sapphire, you okay?" Derpy asks the frowning pegasus.

Sapphire is pulled out of his thoughts when he hears Derpy talk and nods. "Yeah, I'm fine. Is the party still going?" He asks while walking around a corner, but his question is quickly answered for him. 

Everyone at the party is starting to head out. 

"Guess not." Sapphire says as he sees them.

"Speaking of which, Saph, Vinyl was looking for you." Dash says with a smirk.

Sapphire's eyes grew wide. "Oh no I forgot! I owe her something for playing those songs for me."

"What do you owe her?" Twilight asks curiously.

Sapphire shrugs. "I don't know. She said she will tell me after the party. She also said I will like it or something."

Dash frowns. "Oh, I think I might have an idea..."

They all look at Dash. "You do? What does she want?" Sapphire asks.

Dash shakes her head in disdain. "You will find out soon enough."

Sapphire gulps hard at that. Hearing that only makes him more nervous. They proceed to the door and while getting there, lots of ponies wave at Sapphire as they leave. He thanks them for coming and soon heads inside. 

Sugarcube Corner is a mess. They certainly have some work to do.

"Whew, looks like another successful party! Gotta clean up the fun now!" She says happily. "Anypony wanna help?"

They all nod except Dash, whom they catch creeping towards the exit.

"And where do ya think y'all going? Ya gonna help too." Applejack says before grabbing Dash. She groans and Sapphire laughs at her disappointed look.

"Well, we better get started." Sapphire says.

"Oh, you are fine Sapphire. You don't have to help. It was your party after all." Twilight says to him.

Sapphire shakes his head. "All the more reason I should help. I want to thank you all for the party and this is one of the ways I can."

Everyone smiles at that. "Well, if you say so, but I think a certain pony is getting impatient waiting for her reward." Twilight says while pointing to an impatient mare looking at him.

"Oh! Yeah, it would probably be best to see her first. I'll help after." He says before walking towards Vinyl.

He notices she is tapping a hoof impatiently as he comes over. As soon as he gets close enough, she speaks. "Dang! About time ya showed up! I was looking everywhere for you!"

Sapphire rubs his neck. "Sorry about that. Something came up."

"That's no excuse. And for that I get two rewards now." She says adamantly.

Sapphire hesitates, but thinks it's only right so he nods. "Sure, sounds fair. What exactly would you like?"

She uses her magic and lifts her glasses off and above her horn. Her eyes are a beautiful cerise color. She takes a look toward the mares that are staring right at them as they are cleaning and smiles. "Are you dating anypony?"

Sapphire jerks back at this and blushes. "N-No. No I'm not."

She smiles wider. "Good." That's all she says before planting her lips right on his. This completely catches Sapphire off guard and he froze on the spot. Vinyl notices this and pulls her lips away just slightly and speaks. "Hey big boy you have to kiss back or this won't feel like a reward."

Hearing that, he snaps out of it and relaxes slightly. Vinyl notices this and reconnects her lips with his. He is slightly surprised but it isn't unexpected, so he decides to do as she had asked and starts to kiss her back. After he starts responding, she wraps her hooves around his head, pulling him closer. She is enjoying this a lot and can tell he is too. She pulls away to let him catch his breath quickly before going in for another. This time she decides to do a little more and has her tongue probe his lips, begging for entry. He complies and opens his maw, to which she throws her tongue in his mouth and starts to massage his tongue. Sapphire feels euphoric from this pleasure and even though it is his first time kissing like this, he tries his best to mimic her and do the same. Eventually she lets him take over and their tongues dance with Sapphire being more in control. She notices he is inexperienced but she doesn't mind at all. It still feels amazing to her. 

Sapphire is in complete bliss. She tastes so good to him. He wishes he could keep like this forever but he starts to feel his lungs burning for air and he knew it has to end or he could suffocate. So he finally breaks the kiss, to both of their disappointment. Sapphire is still in a daze. Vinyl notices and starts to giggle. She then looks at the group of mares. All of their eyes are wide and jaws are hanging down in shock at what they had just saw. She smiles at seeing them.

"Wow...." That's all he can say, still in slight bliss.

She smirks. "I had a feeling you would like it. Now for my next reward."

Sapphire snaps out of his stupor. He forgot for a moment that she wants two rewards. He is actually curious at what she is going to ask.

"What would that be?" He asks.

She smiles. "Remember my roommate Octavia?" He nods at the familiar name. "Us and another stallion are going to hang out at this restaurant place. I want you to come too."

Sapphire flinches and blushes in surprise. "Y-you mean like a double date?"

Vinyl pauses. "Well, yes and no. Those two aren't dating. That stallion is annoying in my opinion and she thinks so too but he also interests her and they work together. I don't want to be a third wheel and that's where you come in."

Sapphire both likes and dislikes the idea. He is glad it isn't a date because he has never been on one, but he is also hesitant because he doesn't like being used. However, he decides he will because he owes her that much, and in a sense it could possibly be fun.

"Sure, I'd be happy to join." He says finally after a moment.

She smiles wide and hugs him. "Thanks Saph. You really are a nice guy."

He chuckles. "I try." He says while hugging her back.

She pulls away and plants a soft kiss on his cheek that becomes red from her touch.

"Consider that early payment." She says with a wink. "We will be going in a week. Meet at the fountain by town hall at 5 sharp. Don't make me wait this time."

Sapphire rubs his cheek with a semi goofy smile on his face. "Don't worry, I won't."

"You better not, otherwise I might just take another reward from you." She says with a seductive smile and wink. She then turns and heads for the door and leaves.

Sapphire sighs. "She will be a hooffull. Well, back to cleaning. Hope I...can...."

He pauses and looks around. The place is spotless. "Wow. I didn't even notice. Guess I was too spaced out."

He looks back and sees the girls all at a nearby table. Spike was quite a few tables away with worried look on his face. This confuses Sapphire and he decides to walk over to Spike.

"Hey Spike, why you over here by yourself?"

Spike looks at him and frowns. "Well, let's just say I needed to get away from them for a second before they tried to erase me from existence..."

That makes him even more confused.

"Why would they do that? Are they mad or something?"

Spike nods. "Yeah, seemed like it. After they saw you and Vinyl kissing, they started acting strange. When I asked them what's wrong, they snapped at me. So I decided to get away to stay alive."

Sapphire thinks something is wrong. As he starts to head over, Spike stops him. "I honestly don't think you should go over there right now."

Sapphire looks back at him. "Why not?"

"Something is telling me that it's directed towards you for two reasons: one, they acted like that after you kissed Vinyl, and two, when I left them, Twilight said something along the lines of 'he seems to be enjoying it'. How she said it was kinda creepy and it sent chills down my spine. So to keep you from getting erased yourself, I suggest you stay here."

"Yeah, I guess you are right..." Sapphire says before taking a seat. He is still confused though. 

Did they not like me kissing her? If so, why? Were they jealous? No, that can't be it. Why would they be? We only just became friends. Plus they never showed me any interest besides friendship… Except maybe Sweetie Belle… 

Sapphire blushes but shakes his head. No, I can't just assume things. Every time I end up doing that, it backfires in my face, especially with...her. He pauses in thought. Sapphire is so caught up in his thoughts that he doesn't see Spike move a little away from him. Nor does he notice the mob of mares coming towards him.

"So I bet she liked her reward."

Hearing something, Sapphire snaps out of his thoughts and sees all the mares standing close to him.

"Oh, hello girls. Did one of you say something?" Sapphire asks.

Sweetie Belle speaks up with a frown. "I said I bet she liked her reward. Are you two dating now?"

Hearing the edge in her voice from those words actually stung him for some reason. "No. Why do you think that?"

"Just the fact that you were smooching with Vinyl a second ago and seemed to be enjoying it." Dash says simply.

Sapphire flinches, a blush returning to his face. "And that makes you think we are dating? Yes she kissed me. And yes, I did like it. Just like I liked it when Sweetie Belle....." He gets quiet and starts to blush. "I mean...we aren't going out. It was just a reward she wanted. That's all."

"I thought you said you were saving for somepony special." Sweetie Belle says with a slight blush, thinking about what he was going to say.

"I was talking about my first. And, well, you had it." He says while looking away.

"So you regret it?" She says in disappointment.

Hearing that crushes him and he looks at her quickly. "No! I would never regret that! You are special to me. You all are...I'm glad you were my first." After he says that, a few mares blush, even him. "I was just mostly surprised by it anyway. And besides, she doesn't like me like that. And I don't feel that way about her either."

"Yeah you only love Princess Luna." Twilight teases.

Hearing this, Sapphire's entire face turns red and his eyes grow wide. Everyone else becomes surprised as well.

"T-Twilight!" Sapphire sputters in surprise.

"Whoa. Is she serious Saph?" Applejack asks with a raised brow.

Sapphire merely says nothing, deciding instead to look away, face still red.

"Good luck with that mare Saph." Spike says jokingly.

The others laugh at that. Sapphire stands there glaring at Twilight and Spike. After a little while they calm down.

"That's aiming pretty high there Saph." Dash says with a smirk.

Sapphire frowns. "Hey, I can't help who I like. I never thought I had a chance with her either. I just hope I can meet her someday..."

"Well, that day actually might come soon. They might agree to see you." Twilight says with a smile.

"What? Really? When!?" He asks in excitement, the possibility of meeting the princess of the night making him talk louder that he had initially intended.

Twilight giggles at his obvious excitement. "Well, they haven't scheduled a day yet. I'll let you know when they do." She replies.

"Oh okay." He replies while calming down, though still internally excited about possibly seeing the princesses.

"Do you like anyone else that's not a princess?" Sweetie Belle asks suddenly.

That question makes his blush return full force. "I...well..um..."

"He does; he told me." Twilight chirps.

"Twilight! Why did you have to say that?" He exclaims, slightly bothered at her disregard of his secrets..

Twilight smiles. "Well, you were going to tell them anyway."

"Wait, so who else does he like?" Scootaloo asks curiously.

"Oh, he didn't tell me who..." She says dejectedly.

"So who else ya like Saph?" Apple Bloom asks while looking at him.

"I'm...I'm not saying..." Sapphire replies and looks away.

"Why?" Sweetie Belle asks with a frown.

"Hey, it's getting pretty late. I think we should head home." Sapphire says, trying to change the subject.

"True, but we can leave after you answer Saph." Derpy insists, rather curious as well.

Sapphire sighs. "Honestly, I don't know if I really like them or not. I haven't sorted out my feelings yet. That's one of the reasons I don't want to say..."

Everyone merely looks at him. He starts to think they will pursue another response until Twilight speaks up.

"I understand. No point in pushing something when you don't even know yourself."

Sapphire sighs and relaxes. Everyone else seems to accept what she has said.

Applejack speaks this time. "Well ah guess we should all head home then. It is pretty late."

"I agree. I'm exhausted. Sapphire, would you mind coming over tomorrow around noon to see your suit instead?" Rarity asks.

Sapphire is surprised. "You made me a suit? That's awesome! Of course I'll come. I need to head into that area anyways. I'm going to go to that bulletin board tomorrow and post up my job flyer. And also look for another job."

"Well if ya want, ya can always help out at the farm. We could always use a helping hoof." Applejack offers.

"Oh and since Cloudkicker is sick, you could fill in for her." Dash suggests.

"Sweet. Two job offerings already. I'll try to do both. Just let me know when you need me." Sapphire says, happy to already have things to do. "Alright well I guess I'll see everyone later."

Everyone says their goodbyes and head their separate ways. While he is heading home, Sapphire remembers something.

Those crooks! I left them at the park! I should probably take them to the station and write a note.

He quickly turns back and heads towards the park. When he gets close he hears something. He first assumes one of the crooks might have woken up so he gallops faster. But when he gets to the park, he sees something he was definitely not expecting.

In the middle of the park, Diamond Tiara is there sobbing. Silver Spoon is nowhere to be found. 

Why is she here crying? Did they get in an argument? Sapphire ponders and frowns. Even though she doesn't like him, or respect him for that matter, he definitely isn't going to ignore her, so he heads straight to her.

"Uh, Diamond Tiara?" Sapphire says quietly.

Her ears perk up at hearing her name and she looks up. Who she sees is someone she least expected to see.

"S-Sapphire?" She manages to say while still sobbing.

"Are you alright? Why are you crying?" He asks in worry.

Seeing him look at her like that surprises her. After all she has done to him she’d think he wouldn't want to be anywhere near her. But yet here he is. 

She feels tears well up again and all of a sudden she lunges herself at Sapphire, wrapping her arms him and hugging him tightly.

"I'm sorry for how I acted! It was wrong of me for acting like that when you have done nothing but help me. I'm so so sorry!" She says, still crying into his barrel.

Seeing her like this hurts him. He didn't want her to feel bad over him. He quickly embraces her and starts to run his hoof through her mane trying to calm her.

"It's okay. Please don't cry. I was never mad at you so you don't need to apologize."

She pulls away and looks at him. "How are you not mad? I treated you bad! I didn't even thank you when you saved us twice! I even-"

Sapphire puts a hoof up to her and she gets quiet. "Diamond. It's okay. All that matters is that you and Silver were okay. I'm actually glad I was able to help two beautiful mares out. I wasn't expecting anything else."

After hearing this, she calms down considerably and he pulls her close. Her tears stop, and her breathing slowly returns to normal. After a minute or so, she speaks up.

"T-Thank you Sapphire. Thank you for everything."

Sapphire smiles. "You're welcome Diamond."

Sapphire lets go of her slightly, but when she notices it, she hugs him tighter. Sapphire smiles slightly and continues to hold her, stroking her mane all the while. After a few more moments, she releases him and pulls away, looking him in the eyes and smiling slightly. He smiles back before speaking.

"So where is Silver? I thought she would be here with you."

Diamond frowns and looks down, eyes starting to moisten again. "She...left. She is mad at what I did. She said she doesn't even know if she wants to be my friend anymore.."

Sapphire is shocked. If that happens then they would both be alone. He isn't at all okay with that.

"I don't think she meant that..." He starts but pauses when he notices tears hitting the ground.

"What if she did? What if she never talks to me again? She is my best friend! My only friend! I don't want to lose her! If I do I'd be all alone..."

Sapphire lifts her head up with his hoof. Her eyes are closed and he frowns.

"Diamond, look at me." He urges.

She doesn't at first, but then she slowly opens her eyes, her aqua eyes starting to start in his sapphire ones.

"You will never be alone. I will always be here for you, and I know Silver will too." At this moment, Sapphire knows that she needs friends in her life and as Luna as his witness he was gonna do something. He continues, "Something like this will not break up a friendship you have had for so long. Yes, the others told me about it. You've know each other for too long. I promise she will forgive you no matter what, and I will see to it myself."

Diamond stops crying. What he had said makes her feel a lot better. At that moment she is glad he found her and helped her.

"Thank you Sapphire." Diamond says with a big smile after wiping her eyes.

Sapphire finds her smile adorable. "You're very welcome. Do you want me to walk you home?"

"I'd like that." She says happily.

"Then lead the way princess." He ushers with a smile.

She becomes surprised by this and starts blushing. "Princess? Nopony has called me that except Daddy."

Sapphire takes a thinking pose. "Huh. I wonder why not. You have a tiara and you have a sort of royalty to you. I can see why your dad would call you it."

Her blush intensifies. "You think I'm like a princess?"

Sapphire nods with a smile. "I sure do." He then gets an idea. "And to prove it, I'll start calling you that from now on. Is that alright with you princess?"

Her face is completely red by now. "W-well if you want to..."

Sapphire chuckles as he sees the large blush on her face. "Great. Then shall we go?"

She nods and they start their walk toward her house. Fortunately, It wasn't too far.

"So, what do you have planned for tomorrow morning princess?"

She blushes again, still not used to the nickname and looks down. "I was hoping to hang out with Silver but I don't think that will happen..."

Sapphire nuzzles her. "I think it would be best we both go and see her together."

Diamond enjoys the attention and nods when he moves. "Okay, but around what time?"

Sapphire ponders for a moment, remembering he still has plans tomorrow. "Anytime before noon. Your pick."

"How about 8? We usually see each other around then."

"Sounds good." Diamond stops nearby a large gated house and Sapphire figures it has to be hers. "I'll meet you here and we can head over."

Diamond smiles at him. "Well thanks again for everything Sapphire. I really appreciate it."

"Anytime princess." He says with a slight bow.

She giggles lightly at the gesture and the gates open to her huge house once she gets close. Sapphire turns to leave. Diamond stops and turns around. "Sapphire?"

Hearing his name, he stops. "Yes Prin-"

He is cut off when he feels lips press against his cheek. After she pulls away, she is blushing a lot. Sapphire has quite a blush as well from the contact.

"Goodnight Sapphire..."

"Goodnight Princess."

And with that he heads out to complete his errand. He decides to fly to get there faster. Within minutes, he finishes and after a few more, is near his home. He notices that Fluttershy is in her garden out back. He decides to say hi before he heads home.

"Hey Fluttershy." He says softly as he comes in for a landing.

She is shocked at first but quickly realizes who it is.

"Oh, hello Sapphire. You are still awake? I thought you were asleep because your lights were off."

Sapphire smiles. "I just had some last minute things to take care of. I was just heading home when I saw you."

Fluttershy smiles. "Oh okay. Well I'm glad you came. Did you want something?"

He shakes his head. "Not really, just wanted to see you and wish you a good night."

Fluttershy blushes. "Oh, thank you Sapphire...but if it's not too much trouble...can I ask something of you?"

Sapphire grows curious. "Sure. Ask away."

Fluttershy's blush grew. "Well, I um, have these free tickets to a museum in Canterlot in two days and well...I was maybe...wondering if....um..."

"Are you asking me to go with you?" He asks with a hint of excitement.

Fluttershy immediately hides behind her mane. "Oh, you don't have to if you don't want to..."

Sapphire smiles wide. "I'd love to!!"

Fluttershy lights up. "Really? That's great! Well, I guess I'll see you in two days?"

Sapphire nods rapidly. "Yes you will. Goodnight Fluttershy!"

"Goodnight Sapphire."

With an excited hop, Sapphire flies off towards his house. If he would have turned around, he would have noticed Fluttershy also hopping around happily.

Sapphire makes it to his house, opens the door, walks upstairs into his room, and hops on his bed.

"Today is one of the greatest days of my life. I wouldn't change anything for the world." He says happily as he sighs into a pillow.

He smiles thinking about the day before closing his eyes and falling into a deep sleep.  His mind soon enters straight into dreamland with all his new friends on his mind.