Sweetie looks at the stairs in concern, Star was obviously very distraught. He had reason to be, his father had abandoned him in his time of need. Sweetie just couldn't imagine it, how could a father do something like that. Her father wasn't around all that much, but he was there when she needed him. But to physically hit him, Sweetie shuddered at the thought. Sweetie sits and thinks on all that's happened. It had been an eventful day, an emotional rollercoaster as Rarity would like to call it. She had been surprised at Star's modeling, but she was supporting all the way. It had never really occurred to her that it was weird or even wrong, it was what Star wanted right?
Sweetie had been taught at a young age that whatever you wanted was alright, as long as it wasn't illegal or harmful. Was dressing as a filly when you're a colt illegal, or harmful? She didn't think so. But if it wasn't, then why had Star's father been so disapproving? It wasn't normal, but what even was normal? Normal wasn't ever the only thing to do, and most of the time it wasn't even the right thing to do. But is it still the thing you should do? No, being weird is okay. Then why was what Star wanted so wrong?
Sweetie Belle is snapped out of her thoughts by a door opening, she turns to find Rarity walking in.
"Sweetie Belle, how was your day?" Rarity asks cheerily.
"It WAS pretty great, but it just got really crummy," Sweetie Belle answers sadly. Rarity's over to her in a second, worried over Sweeties dour mood.
"Sweetie, darling, what's wrong?" Rarity soothes.
"It's not me, it's my friend..." Sweetie sighs, Rarity sits down next to her.
“Well, Applebloom and Scoots are gone for the night, so I'm going to assume you mean Star?" Rarity guesses.
"Well, then you'd be right," Sweetie answers dejectedly.
"What's happened with Star?" Rarity asks gently.
"Well, he came over earlier today, around noon. He wanted to hang, and I said sure. But I had been practicing my sowing, so I had to put my stuff away. He asked about it, and I told him how you were teaching me. I gave him a vest I had made him, he didn't take to it..." Sweetie Belle says recalling their conversation.
"Did he insult your works? Why I oughta-" Rarity is cut off by Sweetie Belle.
"No, he didn't. Listen, I'm telling the story." Sweetie Belle huffs.
"So sorry. Please, continue." Rarity smiles nervously.
"Thank you. Anyway, he didn't take to it. It wasn't that he didn't like it, he loved it. He just said it wasn't him," Sweetie belle continues.
"Some stallions just aren't into fashion Sweetie," Rarity says.
"Let me finish!" Sweetie Belle snaps.
"Sorry..." Rarity says sheepishly.
"Anyways, I told him I had some other outfits that he might like. He looked through the clothes, and he did find something he liked. But..." Sweetie Belle pauses, realizing what she is about to say. The last person Star told beat him, who knows how others might react?
"But?" Rarity asks.
"Can I trust you to keep it a secret? Promise me. Pinkie promise me." Sweetie Belle demands.
"Sweetie, I hardly think I need to-" Rarity starts.
"Promise me! And promise me you won't overreact or make a big deal out of it!" Sweetie snaps.
"Okay, okay. I promise. Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye." Rarity goes through the motions and Sweetie smiles.
"Okay, what Star chose was a dress. I told him that dresses for fillies and he looked embarrassed. I saw him looking at it though, so I told him it was okay if he wanted to try it on. He did, and he loved it. Then I pulled out your runway, sorry, and I snapped some pictures of him in various dresses. He looked like he was having fun, though he really looked like a filly. He was posing and everything, and he had a bright smile the whole time. Then, he did it. He got his cutie mark, by modeling like a filly." Sweetie Belle continues, Rarity's face was frozen in shock.
"At first I didn't understand completely what that meant, but I was happy for him. He got his cutie mark! I was confused when I realized he was sad, and he started saying a lot of things about him being a freak. I calmed him down, and he seemed to be okay with it. Then he left for his house, to tell his family. I realized he hadn't told me what to do with the pictures, so I burned them like I had promised him I would if he asked me to. He didn't ask me to, but it seemed like the right thing to do." Rarity has closed her mouth by now, but it's obvious that a thousand questions were buzzing through her mind.
"He came by a little while ago with tear streaks on his face, he was clearly upset. I told him he could stay for as long as he needed to, he's upstairs sleeping now." Sweetie concludes. Rarity snaps out of her stupor at that.
"Sweetie Belle, I didn't say you could have friends over. I really wish you would have consulted me first!" Rarity latches on the first thought that pops up, it's her only hope of clarity in her cluttered mind. Sweetie Belle doesn't take it nicely though.
"I used your stage and matches without permission and that's what you're going to harp me for? He was chased out of his home after being beaten by his father! He had nowhere to go! What type of friend would I be if I just left him on the street!" Sweetie Belle fumes.
"I'm sorry Sweetie, I can't exactly think straight... of course you'd be generous, you're my sister." Rarity smiles weakly at Sweetie Belle.
"I wasn't trying to be generous, I was trying to help my friend." Sweetie grumbles.
"And that was very generous and kind of you," Rarity replies sweetly, still trying to wrap her head around the situation.
"Is it wrong?" Sweetie Belle asks.
"What?" Rarity asks, returning her attention to Sweetie Belle.
"Him dressing like a filly, does it make him a freak? He said he was one, his father said he was one. I didn't think so, but..." Sweetie Belle trails off.
"Sweetie, I need you to understand something. Some ponies are born differently. Star is one pony like this, it makes him special. It's not wrong, but some ponies don't accept these different ponies. These ponies are called bigots," Rarity explains.
"I think I remember something about those, they don't like Misses Lyra or Misses Bonbon either right?" Sweetie Belle asks.
"Right," Rarity answers awkwardly.
"Why? Is it because they like to dress like colts? Are they colts?" Sweetie asks in confusion.
"No, there are different kinds of special. Star's case is just one of them. Some ponies don't like Lyra and Bonbon because they love each other." Rarity tries to explain.
"What? Why? They're a cute couple, why would anypony not want them together." Sweetie Belle asks in confusion.
"It's because they're both girls. While same sex marriage is legal, its not supported by a lot of ponies. Ponies that love the same gender are often ostracized and sometimes assaulted," Rarity answers with a sigh, struggling to explain how the world they live in isn't as accepting as some may think.
"That's terrible! Shouldn't a pony be able to marry who they want to marry?" Sweetie Belle asks in shock.
"I agree, they should. But that isn't how a lot of ponies think..." Rarity answers. Sweetie Belle realizes something, something frightening.
"Rarity, you only look at stallions. If I were to marry a mare, would you be disappointed in me? Would you hate me?" Sweetie Belle asks softly, Rarity's eyes widen and she grabs Sweetie belle by the shoulders.
"Sweetie Belle, you listen and you listen good. You're my sister, I love you unconditionally. I will accept you for whoever you love and whoever you want to be. Whether you choose to love mares or choose to dress like a colt, I will wholeheartedly support you every step of the way." Rarity pulls Sweetie Belle close.
"Thanks sis. I just wish Star had parents as accepting as you," Sweetie Belle sighs sadly.
"I do too, Sweetie. But we'll be there for him, won't we. I'm sure the other girls will help Star as well," Sweetie just nods.
"Rarity... Star mentioned something about wanting to be a filly... is it possible that he could be one?" Sweetie asks innocently.
"I'm not sure Sweetie Belle... I imagine that you'd have to ask Twilight that. But, if Star is the way I think he is, he's technically already a filly. If he wants to be that is. Maybe not physically, but in all the ways that would count. With some help of course," Rarity looks down at Sweetie Belle with a twinkle in her eye. "Are you willing to help him?" Rarity asks.
"I'd do anything to help star!" Sweetie says determinedly.
"Okay then... hmm... you said his cutie mark was in modeling?" Rarity asks.
"Yes, as a filly he had specified." Sweetie answers.
"I may know just the thing to help him..." Rarity smiles the same smile she gets anytime inspiration hits her. Sweetie looks happily at Rarity, glad that her sister is willing to help one of her best friends.
~~~~~~~
Stable Script was usually a calm mare, managing some semblance of calm in some of the most stressful situations possible. It helped for her status as somewhat of a celebrity, especially in a small town such as Ponyville. It was surprising how many ponies read her books, and how many absolutely loved them. She was constantly praised for her works, but it had died down somewhat in the last two months. But her calm demeanor helped her deal with her more enthusiastic fans.
But, being calm doesn't help you with surprises. A surprise big enough could rock your world no matter how calm, and she had just had two. One was that her colt was a crossdresser. The other had come shortly after when she learned that her husband had chased their son out the door, after their son came out as a crossdresser. Now she's running frantically across Ponyville in search for her more than likely scared son, to fix what had happened between him and his father. She hadn't spoken long to her husband, but he seemed fixed on his way.
Stable tried to think of where Star could have gone anywhere he might go. Her thoughts drift to the clubhouse Star was always talking about, but then she sees Carousel Boutique. Sweetie Belles place, he might have gone to seek solace in his friend that was there with him when it happened. Stable runs to the store and pounds on the door, a curious Rarity opens the door. However, Rarities face seems to drop to disappointment at the sight of her.
"Have you seen my son?" Stable asks pleadingly.
"Why?" Rarity asks questioningly, almost accusingly.
"Because I have to solve some family problems, and protect my son." Stable says defensively. Rarity looks her over once and smiles slightly at the mare.
"He's fine, I've been told he's sleeping in Sweetie's bed. Sweetie is sleeping in the guest room. He might be a little tender to the topic and very tired after such an... eventful day. I promise to make sure he's safe, and take care of him. However, I must refuse to let him near your husband until I'm sure he has more control. I've been informed of Star Soar's injuries, and I simply can't put him in danger." Rarity informs her.
"Injuries? Is he hurt?!" Stable asks in surprise.
"Apparently your husband did a number on him, but I checked it and it doesn't look too bad. Nothing some recovery time won't fix." Rarity replies, Stable gasps.
"You're saying my husband did it?" Stable asks meekly.
"That's what Star has told us," Rarity affirms. "I'm sorry Stable, but it's for the best that he stays away from the house until Mr. Soar has calmed down some. If he shows a little more understanding, I'll let you take him back, but not until then. Surely you understand?" Rarity asks sympathetically.
"I understand..." she hangs her head, it's for the best. "Can I come by tomorrow to talk to him?" Stable asks meekly.
"Please do, I know he'll want to talk to you. I'm sure he'll want to hang out with his friends early though, so come by in the evening." Rarity answers earnestly.
"Thank you, Rarity. I can't thank you enough for looking after him," Stable gushes thanks, Rarity just nods.
"It's nothing darling, and really you should be thanking Sweetie Belle. I have hardly done anything," Rarity says modestly.
"I'll be sure to do just that," Stable nods, " I'll see you tomorrow then, Rarity." Rarity nods in return.
"You have a pleasant night, Mrs. Script," Rarity tells her.
"Thank you, you too." Secretly, Stable is whispering the words `I'll try` in her head.
~~~~~~~
I open my eyes to find I'm in a room that's not my own, I panic for a second before I remember where I am. I'm in Sweetie Belles room, she invited me over after I was chased out of my own. I snuggle deeper into the sheets until I remember another bit of information, Scootaloo and Applebloom should be back by now. I look over at the clock and realize that it's earlier than I thought it was, but Scootaloo and Applebloom should still be back in Ponyville. Since they got here early, they should still be up, I doubt they'd go to bed. They do know that we usually sleep in, so their probably waiting patiently in the clubhouse for an appropriate time to come by.
I hop out of bed with a spring in my step and a bright smile, my thoughts are on my friends. I hop into the kitchen and I see Rarity. I freeze at this, I hadn't even bothered telling her I was staying over. She'll probably be upset with me and- my thoughts are cut short as Rarity smiles and greets me.
"Morning, Star Soar, have a nice sleep?" Rarity asks.
"Um, yes. Did Sweetie tell you?" I ask tentatively.
"That's a loaded question," Rarity points out, "but yes, she told me a fair amount of things. I want you to know that me and her support you fully, no matter what. Isn't that right, Sweetie?" I turn to find Sweetie Belle in the doorway, beaming a giant smile at me.
"That's right!" Sweetie Belle cheers, walking into the room.
"Thank you," I manage to say, shocked by the acceptance from not one, but two ponies at once.
"Think nothing of it darling. Now hurry up and eat so you two can go see your friends," Rarity finishes off her meal and sets her dishes in the sink. Sweetie gets two bowls for us and pours us each some cereal, my thoughts drift to Applebloom and Scootaloo. Will they think I'm weird? Will they treat me as a freak? Or will they simply ignore me now that I have my cutie mark? I know Sweetie Belle said I was always welcome, but she doesn't really have a big effect on club decisions. The only reason it took so long for me to get into the club in the first place was that Scootaloo wasn't sure letting a colt into the club was a good idea. So obviously Scootaloo has more of a decision than the others.
We finish up our breakfast and head out the door as fast as we can. I urge Sweetie to stick to the side streets as much as we can, Sweetie graciously complies. It takes a bit longer, but we eventually arrive at the clubhouse. I pause at the bottom of the clubhouse, fear instantly looming over me.
“Hey, it’ll be okay. We’re your friends, we’ll be here for you. Besides, we know that three out of four people accept you. Those are already some pretty good odds,” Sweetie says encouragingly.
“Looks like someone has been paying more attention in math class,” I smile nervously and Sweetie smiles back. I gulp down my fear and follow Sweetie Belle into the clubhouse.
“Hey girls, we’re here,” Sweetie announces as we step in.
“Finally, took you two long enough to wake up!” Scootaloo groans, not bothering to turn around and look at them.
“What the hay happened to your eyes Star?” Applebloom asks, I look over to her in nervousness. Sweetie Belle is sitting in just the right spot to block my cutie mark from view.
“They changed when I got my cutie mark,” I say in a near whisper. Apple Blooms eyes go wide.
“You got your cutie mark?! That’s great! What is it? let me see!” Applebloom is jumping around in an excited manner, Scootaloo turns around at this and looks at me in shock.
“That’s so cool! I wish I was here for that! What is it?” Scootaloo’s wings are buzzing in excitement. I smile nervously and step to where they can see my cutie mark. They both look puzzled at it, but they nonetheless look excited and happy for me.
“Wow, I bet your real proud! What’s it mean? Wait, no, let me guess!” Applebloom stares at it hard, a face of mock concentration. “Well, that looks like fabric around that symbol there… Are you good at sewing?” I shake my head. “Are you good at making cloth?” I shake my head again.
“Are you good at modeling?” I look at Scootaloo in surprise.
“H-how did you know?” I ask her timidly.
“The cloth wraps around the symbol in a flowy motion. Lots of Rarity’s dresses are flowy, and the cloth looks nice.” Scootaloo shrugs.
“Modeling? Like vests and stuff? That’s cool, you could become famous like miss Fluttershy. Except for all the colt fashions!” Applebloom beams.
“A-actually, M-my talent is modeling like a-a f-filly,” I stutter out, fearing their reaction.
“Like a filly? What, you mean dresses and stuff?” Applebloom asks in confusion, I nod my head slowly. “But you’re a colt.” Applebloom points out, I nod my head slowly. “That’s a little weird,” Applebloom points out, my heart lurches.
“Applebloom!” Sweetie gasps.
“The hay Bloom?! Can’t you see he’s sensitive about it?!” Scootaloo exclaims.
“What? I don’t mean nothin by it! I was just sayin…” I look away as tears start to well in my eyes. Even Applebloom thinks I’m weird. “I’m sorry star, I didn’t mean to offend you. It’s a good type of weird, means you’re unique!” Applebloom puts a hoof on my shoulder and I look up at her.
“You really think so?” I ask.
“I know so,” Applebloom replies.
“You what?” Scootaloo asks in confusion.
“I know so.” Applebloom turns to her.
“No! that word you said,” Scootaloo exclaims.
“Unique?” Applebloom tilts her head in confusion.
“Yeah, that one. What the hay is that?” Scootaloo exclaims.
“It means special,” Applebloom deadpans.
“Then why not just say special?” Scootaloo asks.
“What? Am I not allowed to talk fancy?” Applebloom challenges.
“No, your not,” Scootaloo replies.
“Well, thanks a lot Scoots” Applebloom just rolls her eyes and goes back to what she was doing. I just smile widely, Applebloom and Scoots are still the same.
“So, you girls aren’t disgusted? We’re still friends? You don’t think I’m a… freak?” I ask anxiously.
“Disgusted? Freak? Why would we think that? Of course we’re still friends!” Applebloom asks incredulously.
“Who called you a freak? Why, when I get a hold of them-!” Scootaloo makes some punching motions with her hooves.
“My Dad…” I say dejectedly.
“Wait? Your Pa called you that?” Applebloom asks in shock. “Why would he do that? That’s terrible!” even Scootaloo was shocked.
“Just because of your cutie mark?” Scootaloo questions, I just nod my head as tears start to well in my eyes.
“So, we’re still friends?” I ask again, just to be sure.
“Why would we not be friends?” Applebloom asks.
“Because I’m a freak…” I answer, tears falling from my muzzle.
“Star, you’re not a freak. You’re just different. We’re all different, but none of us are freaks,” Applebloom soothes in her slight southern accent.
“Yeah, we gotta stick together! Nothing can break up our friendship!” Scootaloo jumps out of her beanbag that she’s been laying in and over to us. I look up at the two of them and wipe the tears out of my eyes.
“You girls are the best!” I pull the both of them into a hug and Sweetie Belle joins in.
“What I don’t get is why anypony wouldn’t accept you… It’s your destiny right, what you’re meant to do?” Applebloom says as we pull apart.
“Rarity was telling me how some ponies don’t accept other ponies because they’re different,” Sweetie Belle answers. “She called them Bigots,” Sweetie Belle adds in a thoughtful voice.
“That’s stupid, Equestria was founded on only two principles! Love and tolerance!” Scootaloo exclaims, waving her hooves in the air for emphasis. We all look at her questioningly, she notices our looks and stares back at us. “What? I pay attention in history sometimes!” Scootaloo snips. I just shake my head at the absurdity of it all, the crusaders truly never change.
“Scootaloo’s right though, why would some ponies be any exception to this rule? Is it only ponies like Star?” Applebloom asks.
“No, Rarity was saying that they don’t like ponies like Lyra or Bonbon either,” Sweetie Belle frowns at the memory.
“Lyra and Bonbon? Why them? They’re so nice! Miss Bonbon gives me samples sometimes! Lyra plays beautiful music on her lyre! Why they gotta be awful to all the nice ponies!” Applebloom asks.
“She said it’s because they love each other. Apparently these ponies don’t approve of loving the same gender,” Sweetie Belle informs.
“I haven’t heard of this before, have any of you?” Scootaloo asks, the others think hard.
“Actually, now that I think about it, Granny don’t like Lyra or Bonbon none. I remember her saying it ain’t natural. I didn’t know what she was talkin’ about at the time cause I was too small, but it makes sense now.” Applebloom admits.
“Has Applejack or Big Mac ever said anything?” Sweetie Belle asks.
“No, they always told me to treat other ponies with respect. Maybe it’s just granny…” Applebloom trails off in thought.
“Well, Applejacks lived with granny. But she seems alright, maybe she’ll be able to tell us why granny thinks that way?” Sweetie Belle suggests.
“Yeah, great idea Sweetie!”
“Cutie mark crusader researchers! Yay!” The three of them shout, I simply step away and let them do their thing. Applebloom notices though.
“Aren’t you gonna join in?” Applebloom asks.
“But I have my cutie mark,” I point out.
“Yeah, but you still don’t know what it means to you, do ya?” Applebloom asks.
“Well, no. Not really…” I admit.
“Well, there you go! You’re still a crusader, just with a little different mission than us. You’ll still participate in our crusadin’, right? We’re crusaders, we help each other,” Applebloom announces with devotion.
“Right!” Scootaloo adds.
“Yeah…” I agree.
“Well then, one more time…” Applebloom says, I smile and step up to them.
“Cutie mark crusader researchers! Yay!” We announce in sync. I smile widely at still being accepted in the club, and in our friendship. Even if some things are less than savory, Everything is still turning out good.
“Okay, let’s go! We shouldn’t waste any time!” Scootaloo announces. We all leave the club house and head out into the fields. Applejack wouldn’t be in the house, she’d be out in the fields. Thankfully, Applebloom knows exactly where she is. We walk up to Applejack and she greets us.
“Well, now. If it ain’t the crusaders. What can I do ya for?” Applejack drawls.
“Hey sis, we need some answers.” Applebloom says.
“Yeah, see, our friend here recently got his cutie mark.” Scootaloo starts.
“Well, good for him.” Applejack nods to me and i smile.
“Yeah, his talent is modeling as a filly, and we were wondering-” Applebloom is cut off by Applejack.
“What did you say?” Applejack asks in shock.
“Modeling, as a filly.” Sweetie Belle clarifies, oblivious to the growing disgust on Applejack’s face.
“I’m sorry, but you’re going to have to go.” We all reel back at Applejack’s tone.
“Applejack! What’s wrong with you?” Applebloom exclaims.
“Ain’t nothing wrong with me, it’s him that’s wrong. Now, I ain’t gonna ask twice. Leave the farm, and don’t ever step foot on it again.” Applejack threatens, I’m frozen with fear. What had once been a happy mare had, in a split second, become hostile and hateful. I start to back away under her glare, Applebloom is looking at Applejack in shock. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo are as well in shock, but pretty soon all three of them get angry.
“What the hay Applejack! What happened to bein’ respectful!?” Applebloom shouts.
“Don’t use that tone of voice with me young lady! And I am being respectful, I’m asking him to leave before I do something unpleasant.” Applejack turns her stare to Applebloom briefly, but then back at me.
“What’s wrong with you sis?! I thought you were nice!” Applebloom exclaims in hurt.
“Bloom, it’s for your own good! Now go in the house.” Applejack demands.
“C’mon girls, we might as well just leave with Star.” Scootaloo says, her eyes are daggers that never leave Applejack. Applebloom and Sweetie Belle turn with Scootaloo to usher me out.
“Where do you think you’re going young lady?” Applejack asks.
“Anywhere but here.” Applebloom answers.
“I told you to go to the house, now go.” Applejack demands. Applebloom looks back defiantly.
“No.” She answers before turning away.
“You get into the house before I-” She’s cut off by Applebloom.
“Before you what?!” Applebloom spins on her hooves and shouts at Applejack. “I trusted that I could come to you for help sis, and I expected you to help my friends as well. You have betrayed my trust, and I don’t want to talk to you. Honestly, I want nothing to do with you right now,” Applebloom yells at her.
“You don’t understand Applebloom, it’s for your own good,” Applejack replies.
“No, you don’t understand! You’re just a…” Applebloom searches for the right word.
“A bigot.” Sweetie Belle offers.
“Yeah! You’re a bigot!” Applebloom shouts, she turns back around and we walk out of the orchard. I didn’t get a chance to look at Applejack’s face, but if I had to guess then I would imagine it was one of shock. I choke down the sobs as we walk away, all three girls are looking at me concernedly. Applebloom is looking disappointed and betrayed.
“You should have listened to her.” I say quietly.
“No, she’s wrong. If I listen to her, it’s like admitting that she’s right. She’s not right.” Applebloom growls.
“I don’t want you to get in trouble because of me,” I murmur.
“I’m sticking with you Star. Crusaders stick together, remember. Loyal to the end,” Applebloom says, determination etched on her face.
“Thank you,” I say.
“Well, she was completely honest with how she sees the issue. Guess that’s why she’s the element of honesty. She’s brutally honest,” Sweetie Belle sighs. “We need someone who could understand,” Sweetie Belle says as we step out of Sweet Apple Acres.
“And someone who won’t try to make us abandon our friends,” Applebloom adds spitefully.
“Then how about Rainbow Dash! She’s the element of Loyalty! She must understand what it means to accept your friends!” Scootaloo urges.
“Yeah, let’s ask her,” Sweetie nods and we head for Rainbow’s cloud house. We arrive at the house and find rainbow performing tricks. Rainbow sees us and stops her practicing to talk to us.
“Hey Squirt,” Rainbow looks at the rest of us, “And company. What’s up,” I look away and let the others take control of this one.
“What’s your opinion on ponies dressing as the other gender?” Scootaloo asks.
“Whoa, uh, that’s a strange question. I guess I’m alright with it, I’m not one to judge others. If they want to do something, who am I to stop them?” Dash shrugs.
“Would you hate a pony for doing it? Would you stop being their friend?” Scootaloo asks.
“Of course not, I don’t care who does it. I wouldn’t think any less of anypony for that,” Dash looks at Scootaloo curiously. “Why Squirt, is there something you want to tell me?” Rainbow Dash asks.
“Actually, I wanted to ask you something. Why are ponies like that… hated?” Scootaloo asks.
“I don’t know Squirt, some other ponies just aren’t that accepting. They don’t understand it and they act out against it. Sometimes it’s out of fear, and some people are just raised that way. Some people can help it, some can’t. I try to have nothing to do with ponies like that though, it’s not right to be hateful.” Rainbow says, reclining in the air as she talks.
“What if it was one of your friends being hateful?” Sweetie Belle asks.
“Well, then I would confront them about it. But I don’t really have to worry about that with my friends,” Rainbow looks at the four and sees their nervous expressions, and my downcast expression. “Are you having some troubles Squirt?” Rainbow asks softly.
“Well, yes and no…” Scootaloo sighs, “Our friend Star just got his cutie mark in modeling like a filly, and he’s having trouble with other ponies accepting him.” Scootaloo answers.
“And do you have a friend that isn’t as accepting?” Rainbow asks.
“Actually, you do…” Sweetie Belle answers, averting her gaze.
“I do… You mean one of my friends was being hateful towards him?” Rainbow asks in surprise, we all nod. “Who was it?! I’ll have a `talk` with them. It was Rarity wasn’t it? Always so caught up in her fashion!” Rainbow fumes.
“Actually, Rarity was really understanding. She’s actually planning on helping Star with some things,” Sweetie answers.
“Really? Then who?” Rainbow asks in confusion.
“Applejack.” Applebloom spits out the words.
“Applejack…” Rainbow looks downtrodden, I don’t know why. “I’ll have a word with her,” Rainbow sighs and starts flying off to Sweet Apple Acres. We stand there, a little confused at what just happened. Scootaloo looks after her and sighs.
“Thought so,” Scootaloo says.
“Thought what?” Applebloom asks.
“I’m pretty sure Rainbow has a crush on AJ. If Applejack isn’t accepting of those types of ponies, then it’s not gonna work out well…” Scootaloo sighs. “I really hope she can get AJ to see, For both her sake, and Star’s” Scootaloo turns away and we head back into town.
“Where to now? Should we ask somepony else?” Sweetie Belle asks.
“Who would we ask?” Applebloom questions, Sweetie Belle thinks for a moment.
“Twilight! She knows a whole ton of stuff. She might even be able to help you be a filly, if you want.” Sweetie nudges my shoulder and I look over.
“I-I don’t know… I just want to be me right now. I don’t even know what that means anymore…” I say sadly.
“Well, we’ll see if the option is there if you ever want to take it up.” Sweetie Belle says.
“Wait, Star. You want to be a filly?” Applebloom asks in confusion.
“I don’t know, I might have,” Star answers sadly.
“Oh, ok.” Applebloom says.
“So, is that a yes for Twilight’s place?” Scootaloo asks. Sweetie Belle and Applebloom just nod. I’m too caught up in my thoughts. It’s true, when I was modeling I had felt like a filly. But do I want to be a filly? Maybe I just wanted to be like a filly? But, isn’t that basically the same thing? In both cases, I’m not a filly, but I want to be like one. I was never very coltish, and I never liked it when my father was telling me I needed to grow up into a strong stallion. I always figured it was just my childish rebellion speaking, but I must’ve known all this time.
I look up to my mom, but it’s more than that. I want to become successful, and kind. Calm and collected, but maybe there is more that I want to be like her. Know I know that I want to be Beautiful and graceful, but do I want to be a filly? If I was a filly I wouldn’t receive ridicule for dressing like one. And I could still follow my destiny as a model, and still be pretty. It’s everything I could want, isn’t it?
If I become a filly, will I have to like colts? Do I already like colts? Will I learn to like colts? Would it be ok if I don’t, what if I still like fillies? If I still like fillies, I’d be leaving one reason for ridicule for another. But, it’s all okay, isn’t it? It’s okay to be like I am, and it’ll be okay to be who I become. Whatever that is, I’m still not sure yet. I ponder these thoughts a little more, but I have no significant breakthroughs. We arrive at the library and we walk in. That might be rude if it were someone’s house, but it’s a public library.
“Welcome to Golden Oaks- Oh, hey girls! and hello to you too Star.” I wince as I hear my name singled out. “Your eyes are Fuchsia, are those contacts?” Twilight asks.
“No, they're magenta, they changed when I got my cutie mark…” I say timidly.
“What? No... really? That’s strange, I’ve never heard of a cutie mark changing somepony before… I’ll have to look into that. What is your talent?” Twilight asks. I hold my breath, I’ve said it so many times that it shouldn’t matter. But I’m still scared of rejection, especially with people I know and have grown close too. I’m not terribly close to Twilight, but I’d like to think that we’re still friends. I was closer to Applejack and look how that turned out.
“I got my cutie mark in modeling like a filly,” I answer, a slight hesitation in my voice. Twilight doesn’t look shocked or disgusted, she looks blank. Eventually I see a spark of recognition in her eye and a little embarrassment.
“A filly? Oh, I didn’t realize you were that way, Star… Or, do you have another name that you’d like to be called?” Twilight asks.
“That I was what way?” I ask curiously.
“Well, there are two cases where a colt likes to dress like a filly… And in both cases the colt usually creates a different identity for herself.” Twilight states matter of factly, then she thinks of something. “You don’t know anything about that, do you?” Twilight asks.
“No, but please, tell me what you know.” I say, finally happy to get some answers.
“Well, the term for any pony that likes to dress in the opposite genders clothes is a crossdresser. For some reason it’s more acceptable for mares to do it, than it is for stallions. And the term for a pony that feels like the opposite gender is a transgender, though there are specific terms for each gender." Twilight pauses and looks at me. "Do you feel like a filly? Or do you only dress it?" Twilight asks.
"Er... I'm not sure, I think maybe I want to be a filly, just a little... is that bad?" I ask fearfully.
"No, it's just special. If you do want to be a filly, the correct term would be transgender. Transgenders are typically crossdressers, but crossdressers aren't usually transgender. Does that make sense?" Twilight asks.
"I-I think so..." I reply timidly.
"It's okay, I can answer any questions you might have on the topic." Twilight tells me gently.
"Th-thanks Twilight," I tell her, she smiles.
"Twilight? Why are ponies like him treated so awful by other ponies? And ponies like Lyra and Bonbon." Applebloom asks curiously.
"Well, usually it's the way they were taught. Sometimes they can have a bad experience and that might set them off to it... a lot of factors contribute to it. Some ponies just get it in their head that theres a certain way for things and that's how it's supposed to be. I... I regret to say that I used to be like that, a long time ago. I just used to think that things were how they were and they couldn't work any differently. Then, I met Lyra. This was way back when in Celestia's school for gifted unicorns, back when I was still a filly." Twilight looks over the three girls in thought.
"Back then, I didn't even think that a mare could love another mare, the thought never crossed my mind. I just assumed, mare and a stallion, I assumed that was the way it was. I never questioned it, and I never really thought about it. The day I met Lyra was also the day I found out that these type of things happened. I had been studying when Lyra came and sat next to me, I didn't pay her much attention. She was just another pony, and I was just trying to study. Eventually she struck up a conversation, I politely held up my end. But, no pony ever talked to me, so I grew curious." Twilight looks up in remembrance.
"Eventually I asked her why she was talking to me, and that's when it happened. She asked me out, I was confused. In my childlike naivety I brushed her off as stupid, I reminded her that we were both fillies. She didn't relent, she just told me `so?` I told her that fillies and mares weren't supposed to date each other. She asked me `why not?` I remember wanting to answer but I couldn't think of a good reason, I just told her `because`. She was upset, for sure. And I do regret treating her awfully, when I met her again in Ponyville I even apologized for it. Lyra assured me it was fine and even introduced me to her marefriend," Twilight smiles at the memory.
"But back then, I didn't think about Lyra. I thought about what she said, and I couldn't think of any good reason why not. I remember thinking about forced marriages in the old days and how those had been abolished. If a pony could choose who they wanted to marry, why couldn't it be the same gender? I couldn't stop thinking about it, so I went to Celestia. She told me about same sex marriage and how it was okay to love whoever you want, she also told me that there were some ponies who don't approve." Twilight smiles sadly at the thought.
"Back then I couldn't wrap my head around it, I was raised to love and tolerate. It baffled me that some ponies couldn't do that. As soon as I learned that, I promised not to be so jaded from then on. That I would give just as much thought to having a marefriend as I would a coltfriend. That's what you call a bi-sexual, someone who likes both mares and stallions. I've since found out that I'm not as I expected." Twilight sighs, but she straightens up and smiles at the girls.
"Wait, so you're not bi-sexual? Does that mean that you just like stallions? Or do you just like mares?" Applebloom asks confusedly.
"Well, the words you're looking for are heterosexual and homosexual, respectively. But, no, I'm neither of those. There are many more sexualities than just those three, those are just the cusp of it." Twilight says matter of factly.
"How can you love something other than mares or stallions?" Scootaloo asks incredulously.
"Well, if you can love both then I'm going to assume that you can love neither... but you said there are more than that?" Sweetie Belle questions.
"Well, if you're none of those, what are you? If'n you don't mind us askin' that is, I don't want to intrude or nothin'." Applebloom asks respectfully. Twilight seems in two minds about saying, but she relents.
"I'm what you would call a demi-sexual, it means I'm not really interested unless I have a strong emotional connection to the pony. I'm still pan-romantic though, accepting all ponies as romantic partners." Twilight says decidedly.
"So you'd be interested in anypony, as long as you have a strong emotional connection to them?" I ask curiously.
"Yes, that's correct." Twilight affirms.
"Geeze Twilight, even your love life is too complicated," Scootaloo says, we all nod in agreement. Twilight looks a little miffed by the comment, but she regains her composure.
"When Rarity is saying that love is complicated, I don't think she meant it this way. This must double the complications!" Sweetie Belle exclaims.
"The world is a complicated place," Twilight points out, we just nod. I try to digest all this information.
"Hey, Twilight? Is there any way to change a ponies mind about these things?" Applebloom asks.
"Well, it depends... if the pony is stubborn, it would be very hard if not impossible. Some ponies are much easier to change, especially if you're close. Some ponies are impossible to change, even if you're close. It depends really. Why? Is there somepony not entirely accepting that you'd like to change?" Twilight asks.
"Two, Star's pa and my sis," Applebloom sighs.
"Applejack? Really? Well, I could try to have a word with her... but if theres anypony more stubborn in her ways, it's Applejack." Twilight lets out an exasperated sigh.
"Rainbow Dash already went to talk with her," Scootaloo says.
"Fight fire with fire..." Twilight nods to herself, "that sounds perfect," Twilight smiles. "Well, do you girls have any more questions?" Twilight asks, I look to the others and they shake their heads. I shake mine as well, Twilight smiles brightly. "Okay then, I'll see you all later! Come by if you need anything," Twilight cheers.
"Okay Twilight, we'll be sure to do just that," Sweetie Belle answers, we all head out of the library.
~~~~~~~
Applejack leans against a tree in thought, Appleblooms words had stung. But, was she wrong?
`I ain't never been called a bigot before, especially not by my kin.` Applejack thinks to herself. Applejack had been raised to be respectful, but she'd also been taught that those type of things were wrong. She tried not to say anything about it unless it affected her or her family. Applejack would never tell Lyra or Bonbon to break up, but she would make sure that they wouldn't leave a bad influence on her sis.
She'd been trying to protect her sis from the bad in the world, and that is the right thing to do. No matter what, she won't let her sister grow up to become some fillyfooler. The Apple family is a thriving family that will continue on through the generations, and will adhere to tradition all through. Granny Smith had drilled those morals into her and Macs head, obviously she was right. Besides, how are you supposed to have a foal if both are the same gender? You can't, it's not natural.
Same with colts wearing dresses, dresses aren't made for colts. Colts aren't made for dresses, their made for vests and pants maybe. Not dresses, it's not natural. The thought disgusts her, along with those thoughts of all the other unnaturals. No, nopony in their family would be like that. The Apples are all natural, and that's that. Applebloom would just have to learn that all that stuff is wrong, she just doesn't know now. She doesn't understand how it's supposed to be. Applejack notices Rainbow Dash gliding towards her, she get's up to greet her.
"Howdy Dash," Applejack smiles.
"Hey AJ," Rainbow replies.
"What can I help you with?" Rainbow Dash is silent for a long while, then she answers.
"I heard that you had some problems with Star Soar." Rainbow speaks up.
"Yeah I did. Can you believe it?! It's just unnatural! Applebloom's got it in her head to defy me now too, it ain't right. I'll get her to come around soon enough, some good old Apple family discipline." Applejack assures her.
"What about Lyra and Bonbon? You never had a problem with them," Rainbow Dash points out.
"They weren't ever a big influence on Bloom," Applejack waves her off.
"Yeah, but you seemed fine with them. Never chased them off your farm," Rainbow says.
"Like I said. Now, if they only ever came to the farm to see bloom or me like that, then we'd have a problem. But Lyra's with Bonbon, so I ain't gotta worry about that." Applejack answers.
"What if it was one of your friends that was like that? Would you chase them off too?" Rainbow dash asks, her voice quavering slightly. Applejack doesn't notice.
"If it was one of my friends then I would talk some sense out of them! I'd try to help them. Try to cure them!" Applejack insists.
"What if nothings wrong with them? What if it's just the way they feel?" Rainbow asks.
"If they feel that way then there must be something wrong with them! Why you askin' all these questions D-?" Applejack stops as she looks at Rainbow Dash, she's completely downtrodden. Tears are streaking down her muzzle and her eyes are glistening. Gone is the proud look of a fearless flyer, replaced by the hurt of a scared filly. Rainbow eventually gains enough conscious to reply.
"Then I guess you don't want me infecting your family. I'll be sure to steer clear of Sweet Apple Acres from now on." Rainbow Dash takes off and leaves the acres quickly.
"Rainbow?" Applejack looks after her prismatic friend and can't help but think one thing. `Maybe I'm wrong?`
~~~~~~~
Rainbow Dash zooms away from Sweet Apple Acres as fast as possible, tears still streaming from her eyes. She needs to get away from there and to someone who can understand. Rainbows mind thinks over all her other friends. Her thoughts fall to Rarity. She was accepting of Star and willing to help, according to Sweetie. `Maybe she can help me?` Rainbow thinks. After all, Rarity has the most knowledge of love and rejection of any of her other friends as far as she knows. With her mind set, Rainbow speeds to the Carousel Boutique. Rarity opens the door to be embraced in a hug.
"Rainbow Dash? Is everything alright?" Rarity asks in concern.
"No! Everything is not alright! My life is over!" Rainbow sobs into Rarity and Rarity just pats her back.
"There, there... why don't you come on in and tell me what's happened?" Rainbow complies and sits with tears still streaking out of her eyes next to Rarity on her couch. "Now, why don't you start at the top?" Rarity insists.
"Scootaloo, Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, and Star Soar came by earlier to ask me some questions... they mentioned how Applejack wasn't entirely accepting of Star, by their expressions I'd have to guess Applejack was pretty harsh. I told them I'd go talk to her, so I did. Applejack's a complete homophobe, and she was trying to enforce it on Applebloom. I tried to get her to see that it wasn't bad, but she wouldn't have any of it. I... I couldn't handle it. She talked about gay ponies like being gay was a disease, and that it needed to be extinguished. I was horrified, and she saw. She knows now, that I'm... I'm gay. I'm sure she hates me now! I ran, because I didn't know what else to do... I didn't know where to go... so, I came here. I thought that you might be able to help me..." Rarity sits in shock at her friend.
"Rainbow, I had no idea... and Applejack..." Rarity pulls Rainbow into a comforting hug and Rainbow hugs her back.
"I love her Rarity, I love her so much... but, she hates me..."Rainbow says, Rarity tightens her grip. Rainbow snuggles deeper into her fur, it was so comforting. Rarity's fur was soft and Rainbow felt a sense of security in it. Rarity understands her, and she accepts her.
"Rainbow, I'm so sorry," Rarity says in an attempt to console her. Rainbow and Rarity just sit there for a long while, not saying anything. Just being there for eachother like friends should, Rainbow slowly starts to feel better. She's past the crying, now she just feels bad.
"Thanks Rarity, for being there for me when I need it." Rainbow says softly.
"Think nothing of it, darling," Rarity replies.
~~~~~~~
The crusaders and I are heading to Carousel Boutique. After leaving Twilights house we went to the clubhouse to think of more ways to earn cutie marks. We had to sneak in and out of Sweet Apple Acres, but we weren't caught. It helped to take my mind off of my dilemma, and for that I'm thankful. We open the door to find a surprise, a surprise for me. My mother, Stable Script, is there waiting for me.
Rainbow Dash and Rarity are talking to her on the couch, she turns to us as we walk in. I have mixed feelings upon seeing her, and I don't quite know which side to choose. On one hoof, She came to see me. On the same hoof, it could mean she cared. On the other hoof, it means I might have to go back home and face my Dad.
"Star! Are you alright? I've been worried..." My Mom moves to comfort me, I don't stop her.
"Mom, I'm..." I pause, how am I feeling? Scared? Hurt? Confused? "I'm glad you're here," I wrap my forelegs around her neck and she wraps her hoof around me for a hug. I stay there for a while, then Mom pulls away.
"Are you still injured? How bad did he hurt you?" Mom looks over me, there's no more sign of it. My head, however, is still tender in that spot. I let out a yelp of pain and Mom pulls away, she looks at the spot and lets out a sigh of relief. "It looks fine, just a little sore," she assures me. "Now, you never did answer my first question. Are you alright?" She repeats.
"I could be better, but I'm doing okay. I'm... really confused." I admit.
"I want to help you through this any way I can, so if I can help in any way just ask." Mom pulls me into another embrace.
"Thanks mom," I answer.
"I'll try to talk some sense into your father, Rarities offered to let you stay with her until he understands. I'll be over daily to see you, if I can make it." I smile at my Mothers dedication. She'd go out of her way to convenience me, I can't express how much love I have for her.
"Rarity, would it be possible if I could stay the night too? I really don't wanna go back to the farm yet," Applebloom asks, a tinge of sadness in her voice.
"Yes, that's fine. Scootaloo? Would you like to stay as well?" Rarity asks.
"I'd love to, but I'm not sure my folks would be okay with it. It's a school night and all that, maybe some other time." Scootaloo says.
"Very well then," Rarity responds, she turns back to Sweetie Belle. "Could you go set up the inflatable mattress, Sweetie?" Rarity asks.
"I'll get it down and out, but you know I can't set it up," Sweetie says as she walks out of the room.
"Thank you, Sweetie!" Rarity calls after her.
"Rarity, I think I'll head home now." Rainbow pauses before leaving. "What I told you earlier, you're the only one I've told... would you mind keeping it a secret?" Rainbow pleads.
"Of course," Rarity nods.
"That's not as true as you'd like to believe," Scootaloo mutters.
"What was that Squirt?" Rainbow asks.
"Nothing!" Scootaloo jumps, surprised Rainbow heard her at all.
"Right, well... you all have an awesome time." Rainbow says as she leaves.
"We will!" Me and the other crusaders, minus Sweetie Belle, call out. The other two mares keep to themselves, chuckling at our harmony.
"I should be leaving now as well, I've got a story to work on. I'll see you tomorrow, Star." Mom nuzzles me and I nuzzle her back, then she leaves.
"I guess I better go too," Scootaloo announces. "Tell Sweetie bye for me. I'd wait, but I don't wanna be late for supper." Scootaloo turns towards the door.
"K, see ya at school," Applebloom calls out.
"Bye," I call out. Scootaloo leaves and we turn to Rarity.
"Speaking of supper, why don't I fix something up?" Rarity asks, Applebloom and I nod enthusiastically.