//------------------------------// // Chapter Four: Can I tell? // Story: A changeling in the beginning. // by inum76 //------------------------------// Chapter Four: Can I tell? Being out in the open exposed for all eyes to see, made Triumph feel self conus about herself. She was in hiding, that is hiding her true form, but she felt it was not enough. She worried others might tell she is a fake. She looked over to her new sister. Fluttershy looked like a bundle of joy, happy to be out. But none too eager to leave her parents. Triumph felt Fluttershy might be good to copy as for what to do, and how to behave. She now wished to do everything Fluttershy did, in order to fit in. This for the moment was to look happy but not wonder. The wondering part was no trouble for her, she had enough of wondering off for one day. Looking happy while being looked at by a bunch of strange ponies was not going to be so easy to do. She would give it a try just the same. Looking to her sister helped. She decided to focus on her, and that made her smile. I think I can do this. Just keep smiling, and I will do fine.  Smiling did make her feel better. It gave her confidence in herself. She now felt set to do this outing with her new family. Stella browsed the territory of Cloudsdale. A bunch a busy ponies bustling about getting ready to make any necessary weather changes all over Equestria, or keep the weather as is, in any area that might be threatened by rouge whether. The pegasi being the weather custodians had their hoofs full much of the time. There was always something to be done. The weather stopped for no pony, and was always on the move itself. Controlling it took near consistent effort, much of the time. Both Stella and Star Chaser had accumulated the vacation time they have been saving up. Over two months worth each. They intended to make the most of their first month off. Also to look for a place for their two foals for when they went back to work. Time grew short on this month. Part of this outing would be for setting up arrangements at some foal sitter's home. At least that was their plan for Fluttershy. In their own mind without saying it, both was thinking much the same thing. Is it a good idea to get a sitter for Triumph? How can we leave her with someone else? She is not a normal foal like Fluttershy. One passing pony after another stopped for a moment to see the two young foals, and to ask about the new one.  Even Fluttershy was still not use to this much attention, and stayed close to her mother. Triumph did likewise for much the same reason. One who knew the group, stopped for a bit to ask about the red foal like a few of the others have. A bright yellow pony mare like Stella named Golden Fields, with a light blond mane, and a wheat stock tip for a cutie mark came over. She has a light gray filly of her own with a similar blonde mane, named Derpy. Golden Fields stopped in front of Stella and glanced over at the new red foal standing closest to Chaser. "So Stella, baby sitting for someone? Didn’t know anyone new had moved to Cloudsdale." Stella glanced over at her two foals then back at the young Mare. "Nope. They are both mine Goldie." Golden Fields stood back a bit while looking a little excited. "Oh' wow. Really? I herd you only had one. Goes to show how much I get told around here." Stella smiled. "You was not told wrong. That is you have been told the same as everyone else till now. I thought I only had one, that is the one that survived." Golden Fields respond quickly. "Wow! What happened? Where has the other been all this time?" Stella continued. "I had two. I thought one didn't make it, and so, I never told anyone about it. Patience had my foal in her care, once she found her still alive. With Patience help, little Triumph pulled through though. So now I have two again." Golden Fields Jaw dropped a bit. "That sounds amazing! Well, this is wonderful news. Congratulations! I am so happy for you, and for Triumph, and for Fluttershy getting her twin sister back." Her smile could not get any bigger. Stella thought to ask while Golden Fields is still here. "Tell me, have you seen Cloud Kicker?" Golden Fields thought for a moment. "Yes, I did see her! She was at Sprinkle Medley's Ice Cream Frosties. I had taken Derpy there before our big move to Ponyville soon. “I know it is a nice place, and I wish to raise her there. I feel Cloudsdale might be a little too demanding for her. “I also feel it is safer for her on the ground, for now. And I like the idea of such a fresh start." Stella tilted her head slightly. "Well I am sorry to see you go, but one does what one must. I do wish you luck down there. “You know the old saying, the grass isn't always greener on the other side. But you are right, I do hear nice things about Ponyville. That is when we do visit the Apples for some of our fresh goods. “As for Cloud Kicker, I mean the other one. We are looking for him." Golden Fields giggled. "Oh' him, sorry. I last saw him there as well, with Misty. The two actually make quite the nice couple I think." Patience grimaced at hearing that, but kept any comments she has to herself. Stella's eyes went wide. "Well, thank you Goldie. We have got to go find him! Hopefully he is still there." Golden Fields gave a wave before taking off, with Derpy waving as well. "OK, good luck to you Stella." Stella closed her eyes in frustration after Golden Fields left. Oh' great! Yes, just our luck. He is out on a date with Misty as Chaser said he would, and we have got to get him alone. At least we have an idea on where to start looking for him. And he should still be close by, I hope. Chaser put a hoof on Stella's shoulder after seeing the face she made. "Cheer up dear. We have to start somewhere. And it looks like we are bound for some ice cream." He looked down to his two little ones. "So who here wants some ice cream?" Fluttershy quickly got excited. "Yea! Ice cream!" Triumph looked to her excited sister while not knowing what ice cream was. If she is this excited about it, this ice cream must be real good. I must try some.  Triumph nodded her head with a smile and decided to repeat Fluttershy in her excitement. "Yea! Ice cream!" Chaser is pleased that they are both excited. Patience moved herself between Stella and Chaser while putting a hoof around both of them. "Looks like the fillies are excited. So let's get going already!" Both Stella and Chaser nodded in agreement, and the five of them moved off at an hastened pace. The group stopped once they reached the edge of this cloud platform. Chaser said with a mock pout to the little ones, "Well, I guess it's the end of the line for the little ones. “They can't make it over there. I guess no ice cream for them then." Fluttershy was amused by her father's antics, and knew he was just kidding, but played along and pretended to look worried with a little fake pout of her own, all while looking up with sad eyes. Triumph who did not get the joke, and saw her sister's face gave a pout of her own. Only unlike Fluttershy she was really worried they really were not getting some ice cream, despite not knowing what it is.   Patience saw their faces and gave Chaser a good slap on the rump with a hoof that made him jump a bit. "Oh' stop teasing them!" Patience knelt down to the foals and said with much mirth. "Time for a pony ride!" She grabbed hold of each one, one at a time, and put them each on a parent's back. She picked up Fluttershy first who had her hooves out waiting to be picked up. Then she placed Fluttershy on Stella's back. She went back down to Triumph who was now waiting just as Fluttershy was with her hooves out. Patience put her on Chaser's back. Once the two little ones were set, each of the other three took off in the air, bound for Sprinkle Medley's Ice Cream Frosties. Sprinkle Medley's Ice Cream Frosties is owned by Sprinkle Medley's father Floater. He started his business a few years before Sprinkle Medley was born. It has been his dream to set up such a shop. And with saved up bits, he put his business on the map. He has had many a happy customers ever since. He hit it big. Now it was well known for a quick stop for a smooth, creamy, sweet treat throughout Cloudsdale. He named his new foal filly Sprinkle Medley, after his business that he intended to one day give to her.   In the air Triumph got a good view of the place. Not that she hadn't saw it before when she first was brought here. She did witness a large variety of colors and looks among the pegasi out and about. This gave her the impression that looking exactly like Fluttershy would not work, and at least having a different color might look less suspicious. It was unlike looking at her own kind, where most everyone looks exactly alike. This time out she was less concerned with hiding and decided to take a better look about while in the air. Colorful flying ponies everywhere as she remembered. She notest this time that some were in groups in a task moving a mass of clouds together. She observer their efforts, and how they interacted with one another during and after the task. She also remembered the most recent interactions with some, as the group she is with walked together. She thought about what she saw. They work together. They help each other, and are nice to each other. We have been wrong about the ponies. How could we have been so wrong? This is nothing like what I have been told. I think I might like it here. If the ponies are really like this, would I ever want to go back?  Triumph had before though she might not wish to return. Not with how she most recently felt around Fluttershy, and her parents. She even got to liking Patience a lot as well. This new sight of the pegasi living, and working together made her decision to stay more clear. I don't wish to return and be made to dislike the ponies again. The clan is wrong, and I don't want to live that way. And I like the love I feel from these ponies I have been with so far. I never felt that from any in the clan. I don't know why not, but I do know I never want to be without it again.  Her thoughts were halted as the group came to a halt as well. They arrived near the entrance to a cloud built structure, as like any other here. Many pegasi was coming and going through a set of double doors. Over the entrance was a sign. Sprinkle Medley's Ice Cream Frosties. The three older pegasi of the group had a quick look about. Sella suggested, "Neither one seems to be out here, so hopefully they are still inside." With that the trio stepped inside to have a look. A line was formed at a counter. The three continued to look about. Triumph was hit with a wide variety of smells, and all of it good. Wow, if this is where we get this ice cream, that is what I must be smelling. I hope we get some soon. It smells great in here. And I have not eaten in awhile.  Both Fluttershy and Triumph felt quite eager. They both looked at each other as they smiled. The older three were not feeling so excited anymore. Neither Kicker or Misty seems to be in here either. Chaser scuffed at the flooring. "Dang, we must have just missed them." He turned to see the smile Fluttershy was sharing with Triumph. He did wish to head right out and keep looking, but could not go back on his promise he made with his two little ones. He wished far less to disappoint them. He tapped Patience. "Can you head out and have a look around to see if you can find Kicker? He might not have gotten far. There is a bit of a line here and will take some time to make our order for the little ones." Patience responded with a frown. "Them? What about me? You think I wish to miss out on getting some as well?" Her face got a little more pouty after. Chaser sighed. "OK. Sorry I asked! You don't have to go. It was just a suggestion anyway." Patience giggled slightly while giving him a slight nudge on the shoulder, but not hard enough to jostle his little red passenger. "I love teasing you, you goof. “Of cores I will go looking, but you owe me. Just order a cup for me, and I will be sure to bring Kicker back here when I see him. OK? “Oh' Make mine Tutti Frutti! Be back soon. Bye." Before Chaser has a chance to say anything to her, she turned and left out the door quickly. Not before giving him a long peck on the cheek. Stella had watched this. "Is there something I should know going on between the two of you?" Chaser had for himself a sheepish grin. "Well, you heard her honey. She likes teasing me." Stella gave him a slight bump with her own rump as she smiled at him. "She is right, it is fun teasing you," she finished saying with a wink. He cleared his throat. "Shale we get in line?" He gestured with a hoof. "It's not getting any shorter as more keep coming in." Stella agreed. "Yes, I think we should." After they got in place she turned to see Triumph. "Have you had ice cream before?" Triumph shook her head. Stella thought not. "No? Well, you're in for a treat then. “Though you would not know what flavor to try. Let's play it safe, and we will get you some vanilla. It's smooth and creamy. You should like it. It's the kind we gave to Fluttershy her first time having some." Triumph, nodded with a smile. Stella turned to Fluttershy who is still sitting on her back. "And You want the same again Sweetie?" Fluttershy smiled with a nod just like Triumph. Stella looked back and forth between them. She felt the two were just too funny. She thought on this. I had not expected this. I now have two little foals to look after, and keep happy. But I am liking this. I like having the two of them more than I thought. I also think they will make good company for each other. I admit, I was a little disappointed when all I had was one. Not that I wasn’t absolutely thrilled to death with having Fluttershy. This somehow feels more complete having the two of them together. And I think I am going to enjoy telling the others that Triumph is my own as well, just as Fluttershy is. A proud mother of two.  She smiled for a bit to herself as the others took notice. There was happiness in the air for the moment, as if nothing in the world could go wrong. ~~~~~~ In the air Patience flew around looking about for her target. She tried a few places, but to no avail. None of the local shops or work stations had seen him. Two pegasi she passed by while asking around pointed her in the direction of the Rainbow Falls. Of course! I can very well guess what Kicker has planned for there. Well, his little outing with Misty is going to be interrupted. Not that I mind doing this. I don't like the thought of him going for her over me. All's fare in love and war. Isn't it? He may be a big goof ball, but darn it! Chaser is right. Him and I are more alike, than him and what Chaser called her, Miss. Fussy Misty, or something like that.  She rolled her yes as she thought of that name. It suits her. She sighed to herself. I can't be mean to her. She has no idea I like him. At least I don't think so. Not that I made it all too obvious to him either. Didn't I? I thought I did. I can't say I have known Misty too well, but I do know she is nice. She works in the rainbow department of the weather factory with Kicker. It is where she must have met him. She is just not the peppy pony that Kicker is. She is a little too reserved for him, I think. And not nearly as outgoing. So, why would she go for him in the first place? Or even him, her? No matter, I got to find them. She swiftly moved to her next destination. She didn't go all out. This wasn't exactly an emergency, but she did not wish to lose him again. In more ways than one. I will not beat myself up over my choices. I did what I did to have the life I wanted, and now I have it. There are plenty of other young stallions for a young mare like myself. If I do lose him to Misty, it's not the end of the world. But I want him. I told Chaser I would be bringing Kicker back with me. I am not so sure now if I can. He might be too involved with Misty now and might not be able to find him. She grit her teeth some as she picked up her pace a little. I see Chaser and Stella with two foals, and here I am thinking of starting a family of my own. And why not? I am young and successful. I am good with kids. I am quite sure Kicker would be as well. That is one thing that I am attracted to him for the most. I feel he would make a great father. Maybe that is what Misty sees in him as well. Who can tell why she likes him. He does not belong to her yet though. Perhaps I still have a chance to get his attention. When have I ever just given up on what I wanted?  Patience made her way to the big clearing at Rainbow Falls. She scouted around for a bit. Ponies of all kind where about, enjoying the day. She landed and made her way down a trail in some wooded area near the falls. It is a well known trail for a pleasant stroll. As she made her way around a bend she found the two she is looking for, and not in the way she wished she had. They were slightly off the trail enjoying a romantic kiss with one another under the cover of the trees. Patience was beside herself with a choice to leave them be, or interrupt. She decided to wait just out of sight at first. They were taking much longer than Patience was having patience for, while struggling with her own inner frustrations as she watched. In only a minutes time, she was now developing too much frustration in making herself watch. It's bad enough she is with him, I don't need to watch this happening, and see my chances with him slip away all the more. Time to do something about this. Patience stepped out where they could notice her. "I have been looking for you Kicker. You need to come with me right now." Misty was not happy with this intrusion. "Can't you see we are currently preoccupied. What is so important you have to interrupt like this? Can't you see we wish to be alone?" Patience stepped closer. "It is none of your business. But if you must know, I have to take Kicker to see Star Chaser now. Just him, as in, not with you." Patience wanted to use this as an excuse to steal away Kicker and have some time alone with him as she took him to see Chaser. Misty scoffed. "Look I don't know what it is you are up too. I know you have had your eyes on Kicker for some time as well. Oh' yes, I have been well aware of you Patience. I know you have been a long time friend to Cloud Kicker, but I also know that is not all. I may not have the degree you have, but I do know a thing or two about relationships at least. I will not just let you have him. The two stared daggers at each other with growing visible frustration with one another. At the moment both Misty's and Patience's frustration with each other was quite apparent to Kicker. Kicker felt he needed to break it up. "Ladies, Let's not fight over little old me! As flattering as that is. And it is." He set his attention to Patience. "First I wish to ask. Patience, is it true you have had an interest in me? I thought you was just playing around with me. We have been friend for so long, but I did not know you truly felt this way. Not really. Is it true then? Did you want to be more than just friends?" Patience slumped a little and nodded. "I did. I still do, but that is not what I am here for." Kicker took a step to her. "I am sorry Patience, I truly am. I really didn't know. I would never wish to upset you by turning you down. Not you. “But I am with Misty now. I will not just leave her for another. I just will not do that. You must understand this. Please accept my apologies Patience." Patience did not look happy but nodded in agreement. He turned to Misty. "You too. You must understand, no one will take me from you, so there is no need for any jealousy. Understand?" Misty looked at him with big pleading eyes, the same she gave him when she first asked him to date her. The same eyes that made him instantly melt and left him without any resistance to saying no. "I believe you. But Must you go with her, without me? We just got our day started together. Is it that important I not come along? That we must part so soon?" Kicker thought about this as Patience reasoned she has indeed lost Kicker to Misty. She knew Kicker may be many things, but a cheat he is not, unless it was about something for laughs. This was no such situation. Cheating Misty is just the sort of thing he of all ponies would not find funny, or something to joke about, she thought. Patience could see this. That was indeed something admirable about him to Patience, even now. She could see as to why Misty would like him. Despite the joker, and prankster he was at times, he was also loyal to those he liked. Kicker came to an answer. "Yes, you can come with us." Misty smiled, then hugged and kissed him. Patience was in a tiz. "What do you mean she can come! No, she can't come! This is a talk for you only. She is not supposed to be involved!" Patience was still worried about another pony finding out the truth of Triumph. She did not want Misty to know. Misty bowed her head. "If it is something I am not supposed to know about, I don't have to go. “Kicker, It's been fun, but maybe you can come over to my place later. I will meet you there. When you are finished with Star Chaser, come back to me. Will you?" She gave him those big eyes again and gave him a kiss on the cheek. Misty opened her wings to fly but Kicker stopped her. "No need for that. You can come with us. It'll be fun!" Patience was getting more frustrated with Kicker. "Don't you even know what this is about?" Kicker smiled. "Yep, I'm sure I do. Something to do with Chaser's little bundle he had with him today. He said he would tell me more about it later. “I just was not expecting him to send for me or anything like that. At least not so soon. “Funny he sent you. I wonder why. Enough chit chat though. Let's be off." He opened his wings and lifted off as Misty intended to do. The two mares just looked at each other, then took off to follow him. The two caught up to him. Patience gave Kicker a nudge. "Bringing her along is not a good idea. You are not supposed to tell anyone." Kicker smiled. "Sure it is! Don't worry. Everything will be fine. I will talk to Chaser, alone if I must. I do know what this is about. And I have not said a thing to anyone. Misty can be trusted though." He turned his attention to Misty. "Can't you honey?" Misty had a look of worry. "What is it you are trying to get me into? Nothing we might get in trouble for, is it?" Kicker chuckled. "To tell the truth, I have no idea if it will! I need to find that out from Chaser personally. “Isn't this fun? The Mystery of it all!" He said in a deep dramatic voice, before chuckling some more. Misty was still worried. "This is not another one of your pranks is it? How can you be so calm without knowing exactly what it is Chaser has to tell you?" Kicker gave a devious smile. "I told you my dear. It's all about the Mystery! Live a little. You're gonna love it! And you need to learn to do so, if you're going to spend time with me," He finished saying with a big grin. Patience addressed Misty. "So tell me Misty, do you think you can handle being with the likes of him?" Misty frowned. "Don't you worry about what I can, and can't handle. And I am going to find out what this is all about." Kicker chuckled again. "That's the spirit Misty! Life is a grand adventure, and you don't want to miss any of it. Now lead the way Patience!" The trio left the area of Rainbow Falls, bound back to Cloudsdale. One very amused young stallion between two bemused young mares. None of them knowing exactly how this was going to go. ~~~~~~ Stella and Chaser finally got in place to make their order. Floater was at the desk taking orders. A big broad lite-purple stallion with a black man now waited on them. He looked to the little red foal then to Chaser who she is sitting on. "So, Chaser baby sitting now? Is this a new friend for Fluttershy? Out of all the foals I have seen, I never saw her before. And I thought I have seen them all. She must be new to Cloudsdale." Both Stella and Chaser knew this was going to be a recurring question. Few knew of Triumph now, or that she is theirs. Chaser decided to give out the answer he felt he and Stella was going to have to give out a lot, at least for a while. He knew part of what he said is true, that she is new here. "No, she is ours Floater. Stella and I had two foals, but thought one did not make it. But as you can see she did, so now we have two again. And her name is Triumph." Floater felt pleased by this news. With a big grin he said, "That is wonderful news. Say, for today your order is free today. Pick out anything you wish. It is on the house." Floater was quite the business pony, but has a soft spot for the little ones. And hearing about a little foal that beat death, and lived to being able to enjoy life made him feel like being extra generous. That, and business was going so well this morning, he could afford to be. Both Stella and Chaser would not begrudge his generosity, even though they knew he is being generous due to a lie of theirs. It would practically be an insult, and they could see he truly wished to do something nice for them, mostly for their little survivor, as they were calling her. Her surviving death was not so much a lie, just how, and by what she might have died from. Though Chaser and Stella did feel bad about the deception. They also knew they would have to play along with their own lie, if they were to be convincing, even if it meant conning others in this way, even if unintentionally.   Chaser felt pleased with Floater's gesture. "Thank you Floater. That is most kind of you." Floater waved it off. "Oh' forget about it. It's not everyday one hears about such good news." Floater was practically beaming with his feeling of goodwill for the little foal. "So, what will it be then?" Chaser started off with the order for his two foals. "OK, For the two little ones, I will have a cup of vanilla." Floater scoffed at that. "What! is that all? Just a cup of vanilla? Look this is supposed to be special. And I know Fluttershy has already had that. “I know, I know, keep it simple. They are just foals after all, but I will fix it up a bit." Floater called over an assistant. "Cirrus, Come over here." A light blue mare with a pink mane came over. "I would like you to make two small separate cups of vanilla, light on chocolate sauce, a helping of whipped cream, a small dash of chocolate sprinkles, and a cherry on top. Make them up right quick." With a nod, Cirrus jaunted off to make the order. Fluttershy who knew more than Triumph as to what was going on, started to get excited. Though this is her second time having some, she was eager to try all the other toppings she heard they are now getting. Floater kept his big smile as he saw the look on Fluttershy. It filled him with joy to see such a smile on a young pony's face. He also saw Triumph look at her too, but in puzzlement. He knew what he was giving them would brighten up their day, even if Triumph did not know it yet. He put his attention back on Chaser and asked, "OK' What else can I get for you?" Chaser thought for a moment. "All right, for Stella, she wants Strawberry on a cone, and make mine a Rocky Road. Also can I have a cup of Tutti Frutti for Patience, who will be joining us?" Floater remembered her coming in with them, then taking off for some reason. He felt it not a problem, and agreed to it. "KO' Not a prob. I did say your order is free, even if you are ordering something for her as well. So, that will be free as well. Anything else?" Chaser smiled. "No. Thank you though. I think that will do." With a nod from Floater to Chaser, he gave the next order info to Cirrus as she returned promptly with the two cups for the foals. The cups are well decorated with the extras she was asked to add. She placed them down as she balanced them on the edge of her wing elbows. Stella picked them up in much the same fashion, while giving her thanks to both Floater and Cirrus. The two fillies looked with growing anticipation at the cups heaping with whip cream, and other tasty decorations. Triumph had to admit she was getting extra hungry just from looking, and smelling them. Her eyes went wide at seeing such a tasty looking sight. Fluttershy is feeling likewise. But she has her memories of ice cream to wet her appetite, all the more than just the look, and smell of it. They both could hardly wait to dig in. Stella knew her little one's where bursting to have some, so she suggested she find a place for them to sit and set the cups down. "Honey, Let Triumph climb over here and I will find a place for us to sit, OK?" Chaser without question moved himself over closer to Stella as she lifted her wing holding a cup out of the way, so Triumph could climb over. Triumph got the idea and climbed over onto Stella's back, and sat right behind Fluttershy. Stella giving Chaser a quick kiss on the cheek, headed off to look for a table. It was not easy, the place was packed. She would have to head outside. A stallion who saw her coming to the door opened it for her, and let her pass. She turned to him for a moment and nodded her head to him. "Thank you." The stallion smiled. "No, problem Miss." Triumph was observing the exchange. These ponies are so nice to each other, and helpful.  She felt bad about once being afraid of them. She felt bad that her clan possibly did not know these ponies well at all. And not liking them for what she felt was no good reason she could see, other than having nothing to do with them. She wondered as to how her clan may react to being told. She also fond herself asking she same questions, unbelieving what she was once told. How could they have been so wrong? Would it do any good if I was to see them again and tell them what I have seen myself? Would they even listen to me? No, I am not sure they will. And I don not want to go back anyways. I am a pony now, and I want to stay here.  There was a small hint of feeling home sick, but as time past, and with each new good experience she has among the ponies, her homesickness faded all the more. She could not help thinking of them. Though her life with her clan was not a bad experience, any cravings to return was being replaced by newer and better experiences she had not had before with them. For a young changeling foal, all of this was as mesmerizing, and inviting as the clouds that beckoned her to wander earlier that day. She had yet to see anything that might make her change her mind about this place, much as the wyvern had changed her mind on how good wandering among the clouds was. Stella continued to look for a table. There was plenty of options outside. She found one on the edge of one cluster of four. She set down the cup and found some convenient high chairs near by. One of the reasons she picked this location. It was also out in the open. They could be seen easy by Patience when she got back. She set up the two high chairs, and sat each foal in one. She sat Triumph in a seat first. After she got Fluttershy all settled as Chaser was on his way over. Each one set a cup in front of a very eager foal. Chaser tended to Triumph, while Stella Tended to Fluttershy. It was a bit of a balancing act, as each held their own cone of ice cream in a wing while trying to feed one of the foals. Triumph watched as Fluttershy had her first taste. The delight on Fluttershy's face was enough for Triumph. Chaser held a spoon with a dab of chocolate covered ice cream with a touch of whip cream up to her waiting mouth. She opened her mouth wide and took the whole thing in one mouth full. The sweet creaminess with the hint of chocolate, overtook her taste buds for the first time. Her eyes went wide as she reveled in this new experience. Delight barely described it for her, she never thought something could taste so good. She did have sweets before. Mostly in the form of something coated in honey. A treat indeed, but nothing like this. Triumph took a look back to Fluttershy and Fluttershy was smiling back at her. Fluttershy knew of the surprising first taste and had been watching Triumph take hers. Fluttershy felt happy that her new sister was enjoying this. A shared moment for each of them. Then it was back for more ice cream for the two. The back and forth routine the two parents worked went smoothly. They gave a small spooning of ice cream to their attendees, and took a lick of their own ice cream in tandem. This went on for a while. They were taking things slow so each of them could enjoy it. Stella paused for a moment, and glanced over at the cup of Tutti Frutti for Patience. It was starting to melt. This caught Stella's attention that Patience has been gone for some time. She got Chasers attention. "Chaser honey, I am wondering if it was such a good idea to send Patience to find Kicker. I am worried that something has gone wrong. She should have found him by now. “Seeing Misty is with Kicker, I wonder if Patience and Misty got into a fight. Oh' I wish I knew what was keeping them." Chaser gave Stella his full attention, much to the displeasure of Triumph in having her treat interrupted. But she could tell the two adults were worried. Stella is worried about Patience. I do not like this.  The full interruption by this change in mood and subject, now got her worried. Stella said Patience could be in a fight.  This worried Triumph even more. She liked Patience, she did not want to see Patience get hurt. This also made her wonder about these ponies she is with. She knew she has yet to see one get angry enough to hurt someone. She now worried if one might get mad at her at some point in time, and hurt her for some reason. Her mood of living in a moment of delight, now went to one of fear. She continued to remind herself that she still does not know these ponies all too well. This talk of a fight made it clear to her that she still has a lot to learn about them. She now reminded herself of the comfort of living with her clan. She was safe with them. They next to never fought over anything, or even got angry at one another. Not to the point of hurting each other. They were one group working to support one another, not fight over individual wants. They did do fight training, but that was for the protection of the clan, not to fight with each other. Most everything they did was for the Queen and clan. These memories kicked in her desire to go home. To go back where she was safe. Why did I ever wander away? It was good with them, even if I did not like some of the things we did.  Both Chaser and Stella noticed Triumph's change in mood. Chaser tried to tempt Triumph with another spoon of ice cream. She did not take it, she just stared off into the distance. Something else caught her attention though as she did. Stella decided to talk to her. "What's wrong my little Angel? Are you feeling OK?" Stella thought for a moment Triumph might have gotten a head freeze or something, but she did not look in pain. She just looked lost, and worried about something. A moment after, Triumph was smiling again, much to Stella and Chaser’s relief. Stella was about to ask Triumph something else but got distracted as Triumph pointed in the direction she was staring. Stella turned to see what Triumph was pointing to, and saw it was Patience with two others. Kicker, and Misty. Both Stella and Triumph felt relieved to see Patience is fine, and both felt concerned over seeing this other gray mare, but each for different reasons. Triumph wondered if this other pony with them is this Misty she heard Stella say might get into a fight with Patience. The thought that it might be, scared her. She did not wish to be around a possibly mean pony. The new arrivals touched down and approached the others in waiting. Stella greeted them. "Hello. Glad to see you are back. So what took you? You have been gone for so long, I got worried." Patience took a seat next to Stella. "Sorry about that, but I had to track these two down all the way to Rainbow Falls. That is not a quick flight. Misty is feeling a little impatient, and got a little gruff with her questions. "So, what is this about? Why did Kicker, and I have to be interrupted form a perfectly good outing?" Her mood had changed after her eyes rested on the little red foal sitting with Chaser. She cocked her head slightly. I never saw her before. I wonder who she is, and who she belongs to. Last I heard from Kicker, is that Stella and Chaser had only one newborn, and that is Fluttershy sitting with Stella. Could this have something to do with why Kicker was called here? Does he know who she is? He did say it had something to do with a bundle Chaser had with him. Is this foal what he meant by a bundle? Misty gave a nudge to Kicker. "Tell me, Do you know who that little red foal is with Chaser? It's so odd, other than her color, I could swear she looks exactly like Fluttershy." Kicker did not know who she is, but the other arrival that flew in on Chasers back gave him some suspicions. It can't be. Is that what he brought in with him this morning? What he brought in looked nothing like that. Did they find a unicorn to cast an illusion spell on her? If they did, that's a pretty neat trick, and idea. I wonder how long the spell will last if it is her sitting there. Kicker had no idea how close to the truth he really was, as of yet. He decided to respond to Misty's question. "I'm not sure who that is, but I have my guess." Misty was not waiting around and cut to the chase. Her outing with Kicker was cut short, and she wanted answers as to why. She decided to ask Stella directly about the little red foal next. "Stella who is the new foal, and do you have any idea as to what Star Chaser wants with Cloud Kicker that is so urgent?" Misty's tone was upsetting Triumph. Triumph wondered what she might do. For the moment Triumph is as curious about her as Misty is about Triumph. Stella answered both of Triumph and Misty's questions, as to who each of them are. "She is mine Misty. And her name is Triumph. She is Fluttershy's twin sister. “I never told anyone about her because the thought of having lost her was just too upsetting for me to talk about. But as you can see, unlike what we all had though, she lived. And now I have my other daughter back. “As for what Chaser wants with Kicker, that is for them to discuss alone." This satisfied only part of Misty's questions. It did not tell her why it was so urgent for Kicker to be called here. She guessed she might never know, and let it go. The name Misty got Triumph all the more upset. She is the one who Stella said Patience might get into a fight with. And she does seem like she could be mean. I don't like her.  At the moment Kicker was bursting inside to laugh out right, all while trying to contain himself. Oh' this is just too perfect. I just have to know now. But I can't say a thing to Misty. They're trying to keep this a secret as to who she really is, that is if my guess is right. I am willing to bet on it. But to say she is their foal. Do they intend to keep her now? Wow. I never thought the two to be this crafty to have her looks changed, just so they could take in such an odd looking thing. Well, as odd as she looked before, and wish to call her their own. If that is what is really going on here. Kicker walked over to Chaser. He whispered closely to his ear, "I think we got to take off for a bit, so you can tell me what is going on." Chaser gave a nod, then got up. "Stella. Kicker and I are going to take off for a bit so we can talk. I guess you got the little ones to yourself for the moment." Patience walked around and took Chasers spot, after giving him a slight nudge to the side. "No, Stella and I will tend to them together." Chaser looked over at the cup of ice cream that was meant for her. It was almost soup now, or at least looked it. He felt bad about this. He pasted Patience a few bits. "Here take those, and you can get yourself another ice cream. Your other one did not last the wait." Stella addressed Patience as well. "You go ahead dear. I got the little ones for the moment. Besides I finished mine and can handle the both of them easier now." Patience got back up. "Well, if your both sure." Stella gave a nod. "OK, but I should be back soon." Patience moved out of that spot and headed back inside to get herself another ice cream of her own. After losing Kicker to Misty, Patience felt like having some ice cream for comfort food, to settle her a little. Misty decided to follow her in. Chaser taped Kicker on the shoulder. "Are those two going to be OK together?" Kicker shrugged his shoulders as he watched the two go inside. "I don't know. I'd give five dozen bits just to know what they are thinking right now, aside from wanting more ice cream." He turned his head to face Chaser. "So, ready to go?" Chaser nodded while trying not to laugh himself at Kicker's comment. "Lets fly." The two then took off together. Stella put her attention back to her foals. "Well, it looks like it is just you and me kids. Well, for the moment anyway." She looked to the near empty cups. "Not much in them. Want to finish them up?" Both Fluttershy and Triumph smiled and nodded in unison. Stella could hardly get over the sight. It was as if Triumph was actually trying to copy Fluttershy at times, and doing a good job of it. She could not tell if she was really trying, or if it just seemed so. Either way, she found it humerus. She decided to play with them a bit as she fed them. She held a spoon in each hoof then dipped them in a now a gooey mess in the cup. She did so at the same time and held the spoons to each foal. Then they both took a taste at the same time in exactly the same manner. Stella was finding this to be funnier to her each time they did this. I can't tell what is going on, but the two seem almost identical now, even in what they do. I do think Triumph is trying to copy Fluttershy, but I don't even see her looking in Fluttershy's direction to see what her sister is doing. She is copying her just the same. If I didn't find this so darn funny, I might think of it as a bit creepy.  She smiled and chuckled to herself as she gave them their last spoonful. After the two looked at each other and started a giggling fit as they watched Stella Chuckle for no apparent reason to them. Stella started to laugh with them. It got the attention of many of the other ponies around them, and made them wonder what could have got those three laughing. ~~~~~~ Star Chaser found a secluded cloud far enough from earshot of any others, and set down on it. Cloud Kicker landed in front of him. Kicker started off with his questions. "I just got to know, what unicorn did you get to change her looks, and how did you get Stella to go along with this? “I mean you got her telling everyone that your new odd find is her foal now. Whatever you did, or said to her, I must know. I might be able to use it on Misty someday, whenever I might need to." Chaser glared at him. "Always the opportunist, aren't you?" Chaser chuckled. "Can't blame you for wanting some hints on how to deal with a mare and potential wife, if, and when things go bad. But I didn't do any convincing. “All I did was let Stella get to know who I found. After some first concerns she had, she got to liking Triumph on her own. My new find is actually quite likable. And rather smart for one her age. “As for her new looks, Triumph did that on her own. We know she is something called a changeling. She confirmed this. And as a changeling, changing her looks is just something she can apparently do well. “All of this may seems unbelievable, but it's true." Kicker smirked. "Finding something unusual is not so unbelievable. Stella going with calling Triumph, as you are both calling her, her own foal now, and so soon, that is unbelievable. “I can also tell that Patience knows all about this as well. But why does she know, what does she have to do with any of this? Did she find out about her like I did, or did you tell her?" Chaser sighed. "I told her. But it was important to do so. You heard the story Stella gave right?" Kicker nodded. "Well, how do you think we are going to be able to pull off such a lie, without a real good witness that can back us up in it?" Kicker raised an eye. "So you got her lying about it as well? But what is the connection? Why her?" Chaser smirked. "Man, I don't know if you are pretending to not understand just to drill me with more questions, as you sometimes do. “Patience is the one that was with us during the delivery of Fluttershy, and she was the only one who saw just how many we had. So, she is the only one who could back up our story that Triumph is really ours by saying that she was there, and she saw that we had twins. Not just Fluttershy." Kicker leaned back a bit and rested a hoof on his head in realization. "Oh' Wow! What a story this is." He recomposed himself and gave Chaser a pleading grin. "Can I tell Misty? Please... She would love this! “I never thought the two of you would do something so crazy. But why keep her? Why don't you return her or something. There has got to be more to this. I don't think you would be trying to keep her otherwise." Chaser sighed again. "The reason for that, is why you should not tell Misty. I can't tell you not to tell, but you would be protecting Misty if you didn't tell her. You would be giving her deniability of the whole situation. “Parts of this is not good. I am still sticking with that the fewer that knows, the better." Kicker went all serious. "OK, lay it on me. What's this about?" Chaser moved in a little closer and got serious himself. "From what I know, Triumph is something called a changeling, as I said. But I don't even know what they are. Not really. “Just by looking at what her true form looks like, I got the impression they are like alicorns. They can fly and have strong magic. So strong that one of their foals can change form. Not just look different like an illusion, but actually be something else." Kicker tilted his head a little. "What do you mean, be something else?" Chaser continued. "Just that. I have held her in both her forms. From what I can tell, she is a pony now. She not only looks different, but feels different as well. She feels to me the exact same as holding Fluttershy now. She didn't feel like a pony foal before her change. “Even Patience gave her a simple examination. She can't tell she is not a pony after this change. And this is with Patience knowing she is not like us. She saw and held her in both forms as well." Chaser shook his head slightly as if dealing with some grief. "This is some strong magic bud. Not just some faked illusion for show, as I said. Part of that has me worried. “The other part is, she does not wish us to be looking for her kind. She said they don't like ponies. She even seems afraid they might hurt us or something. That part worries me even more." Kicker looked worried now. And for the few times Chaser ever saw him worried. Kicker let out a deep breath before responding to all of that. "I am no expert on unicorns, but I have heard and seen that some unicorn foals can and have done magic. So that much is not so unusual. But all out form changing? That is heavy. As for her kind not liking us all that much, she did tell you all this?" Chaser nodded. "There is more. Patience is the one who gave us this name, changeling. She found something on them in a book. The explorer's that found them once was spooked by them. So much so, that they abandoned any idea of contacting them, or staying to observe them for long." Kicker felt concerned about what Chaser has found. "Much about this seems real creepy. Bug like looking ponies, and possibly powerful like alicorns. And of unknown life agendas, that don't like ponies. “None of that sounds good. No wonder you don't want me to say anything to Misty. That would just freak her out. And there would be nothing I could do about it. I don't know what I could say to her that would make a difference, or make her feel better about it." Chaser sighed again. "So you see why you should not tell her?" Kicker nodded. "There is more. Patience even suggested that Princess Celestia likely knows about them. “And if she has not made an official contact with them, I don't think it would be any good in going looking for them. And I don't want any others to know what exactly what we have either. I don't want anyone to take her from us. “I want her to have a normal life, and I think Stella and I can give her that. Chaser got near pleading with his words now. "I said it before, she is quite likable, and she is just a little foal. She is nice, and sweet, but also scared, and lost. “I promised her I would protect her, and take care of her, and I intend to do just that. Now do you understand why we intend to keep her, and why we need you to be quiet about it?"   Kicker shook his head some, but not in disagreement. "I got to say, I admire what it is you and Stella are doing. This is all heavy to take. What you say sounds like a tough decision to be making, keeping this quiet and all. Kicker stood straight and smiled. "You have my full support. I will keep your secret. And I will not tell Misty, or any other pony for that matter." He now got a little boisterous and silly. "Hell, I won't even tell myself. I will forget this conversation ever took place." Chaser chuckled. "Did I ever tell you how crazy you are?" Kicker's smile broadly. "Not nearly as crazy as you, now it seems. And I thought I was the one doing outright foolish things at times." Kicker stood in thought over such a time. "I don't think my boss Quicksilver will ever forget the day I tried to get out of work for one day. “I thought I would release a condensed fog into the place and sneak out, but I grabbed the wrong jar. I set loose a storm cloud instead." Chaser smiled. "I remember that. I was called in to help break it up. You got your time off for that. A week without pay, I might add." Kicker went serious again. "But I see you are not so crazy my friend. What you are doing for that little foal you found is honorable. I am not about to judge you for any possible wrong that might come of this. Not while in your attempt in doing what you feel is right by her. “Whatever might happen. You have my full support in this. It seems you have Patience's support in this as well. Friends stick together, Yes?" Chaser nodded with a smile. "Yes, we do. And, thank you my friend." Kicker made the suggestion, "Let's get back to the others. I still have plenty left of the day to spend with Misty. And I don't wish to keep you from Stella and your two new foals either." Kicker smirked. "This is going to seem so odd. But more for you than me. I mostly just gotta keep this from Misty. You have everyone else to try and fool that this new foal is yours. I will try and do my part and spread the word that you and Stella have two twin foals now. I have the back story that Stella gave, and I will just stick to that. So no problem there. “This will actually be kind of fun." Kicker laughed out loud to himself. "I get to lie to everyone about this, and it will be for a good cause. I love it!" Chaser shook his own head. "I knew you would. Yes, let's get back to the others." With that the two took off again to rejoin the group.