School Belle

by Tale Weaver


School Belle, Part One

Sweetie Belle gritted her teeth and growled as she wiped off the kitchen counter top. It wasn’t the task at hand that put her off, nor was it the strain of using her magic to scrub off a stubborn stain with a sponge. It was what she heard from the next room.
“Spike, would you be a dear and put these fabrics in my inspiration room?” Rarity asked. “And if you would be so kind as to take out the trash I think we’ll be about done!” It wasn’t unusual for Spike to come over and eagerly lend Rarity a claw, but it had been going on all afternoon. As the afternoon turned into evening, it began to irk Sweetie Belle. She began to feel that her big sister was taking advantage of the young dragon’s good nature. But then again, he did volunteer and they were in a hurry. Rarity did always find a way to make it up to Spike, but Spike would never get from Rarity what he really wanted. And as unrealistic as it was, it still grated on Sweetie Belle’s nerves.
Spike came through the kitchen with a big smile on his face and a big bag of trash on his back. He went out the back door and threw it in the dumpster. But as he walked back in, Sweetie Belle felt she had to say something. “You know you don’t have to do everything she asks, right?”
“Yeah, but I like helping out!” Spike answered.
“So I’ve noticed,” said Sweetie Belle with a bit of sarcasm in her voice.
“Well, you know,” Said Spike. “Sometimes I help Applejack on the farm, or the Cakes at Sugar Cube Corner and of course I’m Twilight’s Number One Assistant.”
“Amazing how you can do all that considering how much time you spend here.”
Spike rubbed the back of his neck and stuttered, “Yeah, well…”
“Never mind.” Putting him on the spot was not her intention, so she let him off the hook. “But it’s not like my parents would really notice, anyway.”
“What do you mean?” asked Spike.
Sweetie Belle looked down and her ears drooped. “Let’s just say they have different standards than me and my sister.”
Rarity came into the room. “It’s not about standards, darling. It’s about respect for our parents! We don’t see them that often and we should put our best hoof forward.” She turned her attention to Spike. “Oh, Spikie Wikie, I don’t know how we could have cleaned up the boutique and our home without you! You’ve been such a big help, I promise to make it up to you.”
Rarity kissed him on the top of his head, which was all the payment he needed. He staggered a bit as he looked up to Rarity.
Sweetie Belle rolled her eyes, “Oh, brother!”
“But you really should go home now,” continued Rarity. “It’s getting late and Twilight will be wondering where you are.”
“I’m sure she can figure it out,” Sweetie Belle said under her breath.
As Spike left, Sweetie Belle could swear his pupils had become heart shaped and his brain was leaking out of his ears.
Rarity let him out and closed the door behind him. She then turned to find Sweetie Belle frowning and glaring up at her.
“What?” she asked.

* * *

It was late in the morning when Rarity and Sweetie Belle left Carousel Couture for the train station. Sweetie Belle had been quiet all morning. Rarity would have thought she would have been more excited to see their parents again. It had been months. She looked at her younger sister. Her ears were down and she seemed to be avoiding looking back at her. “Sweetie Belle, is there something on your mind?”
“No.” She wasn’t convincing.
“Are you sure? You’re usually more excited when mother and father come to visit.”
Sweetie Belle slowed down, then came to a stop in the middle of the road. She looked up the road, down the road, everywhere except at Rarity. Now Rarity was concerned. “Sweetheart, what is it? You can tell me.”
She finally looked up at her big sister. “Rarity, you do know Spike has a crush on you, right?”
Rarity sighed. “Yes, darling, I’m very well aware of his feelings for me.”
“Well, shouldn’t you say something? I mean, it kind of felt like you were taking advantage of his feelings for you last night.”
“Oh, my,” said Rarity putting a hoof to her chin. “Did it really seem like that? I didn’t mean to, really I didn’t.”
“I know you don’t want to hurt him, but…”
“It’s not as simple as that, darling.”
“Why?”
Rarity hung her head down. This conversation was making her feel guilty and she could see that it was not easy for Sweetie Belle to bring this up to her. Sweetie Belle truly felt for Spike and she deserved an explanation. “Well, it’s not like he’s some love struck school pony I can just pat on the head and shoo away. He truly is a friend and I do adore him – just not the way he would like.”
She turned back in the direction they were going and started walking again. With a tilt of the head, she encouraged Sweetie Belle to do the same. “This may seem like the coward’s way out, but I’m hoping that he will just get over it like I did.”
“You had a crush on somepony?”
“Oh, yes! When I was your age I had a crush on my school teacher. I thought he was the best thing since lock stitching. I spent many a semester following him around like… well… like Spike does.”
“So how did you get over it?”
“As I grew older I started noticing colts my own age. Boys I could actually spend time with and do things with. And then I got interested in sewing and dress making. So as my interests changed, my feelings changed. Oh, I do wish he would find a filly friend his own age, or a dragon friend, whatever suits him.”
Sweetie Belle raised an eyebrow in surprise as they crossed the bridge over the stream. “A filly friend? So that would be okay?”
“Of course it would, darling, and you mustn’t think otherwise just because you don’t see it here in Ponyville. I’ve traveled all over Equestria on the fashion circuit and met some lovely couples! I know a pony married to a donkey, one griffin married to a Pegasus and one married to an earth pony. And there is this simply lovely couple in Manehatten that own a chain of boutiques. He is a rather imposing looking minotaur who is the gentlest of souls and his wife is a griffin with a most wicked wit.” Rarity laughed to herself, recalling some of the comments the griffin had made which were probably not appropriate to repeat to Sweetie Belle. “One look at them and you could see how much they adore each other! That’s the kind of marriage I wish to have some day.”
“So it really is just that you’re too old for him?” asked Sweetie Belle.
“Excuse me, darling, but it’s that he’s too young for me! There’s a difference.”
Sweetie Belle looked up to her big sister in confusion. “Huh?”
“You’ll understand when you’re older, but yes. I suppose I should watch myself around him. I don’t want to be unfair and you were quite right to bring it to my attention. Thank you, Sweetie.”
Sweetie Belle smiled at her sister and let out a long breath. It felt good to get that off her mind.
Rarity was quiet until the station came into sight. She occasionally glanced at Sweetie Belle as they walked. She saw that her little sister was catching her glances and decided to take her into her confidence. “This is just between you and me, Sweetie. I wouldn’t want to encourage Spike, but the truth is that if he were older I would be tempted. He’s quite the gentledragon, he’s honest, trustworthy, intelligent and quite the cook! Somepony’s going to be very lucky to have him some day.”
Sweetie Belle was astonished by Rarity’s confession. “You really think so?”
“You don’t know the half of it, darling.” Rarity continued. “You only know him from around Ponyville. He’s fought beside us many a time! There’s good reason the Crystal Empire consider him their hero. He’s brave and loyal, not only to Twilight, but to all six of us.”
As they reached the station, Rarity procured the services of a Sunshine Cab. Then they climbed up the stairs to the station platform, sat and waited for the train. Sweetie Belle stared up at Rarity the whole time in silence. Her undivided attention finally caught Rarity’s eye. “Was there something else, Sweetie?”
Sweetie Bell had to bring herself out of her reverie. “What? Ah, no. It’s just that I never knew you thought so much of Spike.”
Rarity looked at her little sister. She turned Sweetie Belle to face her, leaned in close and gently pressed her right hoof against Sweetie Belle’s chest. “Sweetie Belle, you and I would both do well to find coltfriends as kind and as considerate and thoughtful, brave and loyal as Spike. In a few years when the suitors come to call, let him be the standard they have to meet!”
Sweetie Bell was lost in thought, still taking in all Rarity had said about Spike. But all that changed when the train came into view. The morning’s conversation was pushed aside as the excitement of seeing her parents again took over. She started waiving and shouting long before anypony on the train could possible see or hear her.
The train came to a stop a few minutes later. The sisters scanned the crowd as the passengers disembarked. Sweetie Belle was the first to spot their parents, Hondo Flanks and Cookie Crumbs, and ran ahead of Rarity to greet them. Hugs and kisses melted away months of separation. The platform was nearly empty by the time they were ready to move from the spot where they had met.
Rarity nudged the family to the baggage pick up area. “Anything new in Swamp Hollow?” asked Rarity.
“Oh, there’s big new, all right!” said their dad. “Too big to tell it all here.”
“Well, let’s get you home and you can tell us all about it.” Rarity scanned the pile of luggage still left on the platform, twice her height and even wider. “Excuse me, Father, but which bags are yours again?”
He pulled out three suitcases, then pointed to the remaining pile. “All of these.”
Rarity tried to contain her surprise. “I see. And how long did you say you were planning to stay, again?”
“Just three or four days. That’s why we just packed the essentials.”
Rarity laughed politely. “Of course. Sweetie Belle, be a dear and get the cab driver.”

The trip back to Carousel Couture went quickly. The early afternoon was filled with lunch, talk of school and the new shop in Canterlot. It wasn’t until lunch was nearly over that the subject of their parent’s home came back up again.
“So you were saying there was some big news in Swamp Hollow?” asked Rarity.
“Big indeed!” said Hondo. “We got ourselves a new mayor.”
“Oh, yes,” said Rarity. “I remember mother writing about the election. Is he working out?”
“He sure is!” said their father excitedly. “That Stallion is true to his word – unlike so many other politicians. He said he’d build a new school for our foals and that’s exactly what he did. Got us a new school teacher, too. A proper one, graduate from the University of Phillydelphia.”
“That is wonderful news,” agreed Rarity. “I’m sure the school ponies will excel in their education.”
“They sure will,” said Hondo. “Tell them the best part, honey.”
Cookie leaned over and eagerly grabbed Sweetie Belle’s hoof. “Now that our little town has a big city teacher, we’ve come to take you home with us, Sweetie Belle!”
Sweetie Belle froze, nearly choking on the cookie she was nibbling. Her mouth went dry and she had to swallow hard to get the crumbs down. She looked up at her mother, “What?”
Cookie put her arm around Sweetie Belle and hugged her tight. “You’re coming back home! We wanted to surprise you. Are you surprised?”
Sweetie Belle stuttered. “But… But I like my school, and all my friends are here.”
“Don’t worry about that,” assured her Dad. “You’ll make lots of new friends. They’re a great bunch of foals.”
Rarity had been looking on in shock, unable to speak. A pleading glance from her little sister forced her to find her words. “But she’s doing so well at her current school. I’ve sent you her report cards and Miss Cheerilee is quite a fine teacher.”
“I’m sure she is,” agreed Hondo. “But the only reason we sent the two of you here was because of the poor school situation. We missed all of your growing up, Rarity, and now we missed some of Sweetie Belle’s. But that’s all going to change.”
Cookie jumped in, mussing Sweetie Belle’s mane. “I know it’s sudden, but don’t worry. You’ll have all weekend to pack.”
“Pack?”
“I’ll help you,” continued Mom. “Maybe Rarity can help, too?”
“No,” said Sweetie Belle.
Mom turned her attention to Rarity. “Oh, I’m sure Rarity can find some time in her busy schedule for her little sister, especially with her leaving and all.”
Out of respect for her parents, Rarity fought back her anger. “That’s not what she means, Mother.”
“So you will help her pack?” asked Dad.
Rarity was getting frustrated. “No…”
Dad turned back to Sweetie Belle. “Well just pack what you can. We can send for the rest later.”
Rarity spoke through gritted teeth. “Farther, I really think you need to listen to your daughter.”
“I’m listening, honey.”
Rarity rolled her eyes. “Not to me, to Sweetie Belle!”
Dad looked to Sweetie Belle. “I don’t want to pack. I don’t want to go!”
“I know it’s a lot of work, but you can get through it,” assured Dad. “Your mother and I got some work to do, too. We gotta pick up your school records on Monday, get you medical records from your doctor. There isn’t anything at City Hall we should pick up, is there? You don’t have a police record, do you, little girl?” Dad laughed at his own joke.
Sweetie Belle was not laughing.
“Besides,” continued Dad. “It’s about time we took you off of your sister’s hooves. She used to write all those letters about how it was a burden to look after you and run a shop, but we are grateful for her patience – and you should be, too.”
Sweetie Belle looked on in shock. Had Rarity really written that? She turned to her big sister.
Rarity saw Sweetie Belle’s expression as she looked up to her. It was no longer the look of pleading, it was the look of one who had been betrayed. Rarity couldn’t help but turn away, even though she knew it would confirm her little sister’s fears. Underneath the table she found Sweetie Belle’s hoof and held it tightly with hers, trying to impart assurance. Finally she turned back to their father, avoiding Sweetie Belle’s eyes. “That was a long time ago. We get along just fine now.”
“I’m sure you do,” said their father, brushing the subject off. “Hey, we should celebrate, Sweetie Belle coming home, you getting your place back to yourself.”
Rarity was about to protest when Cookie jumped in. “That’s a great idea!”
“You pick out a nice restaurant, Rarity, and we’ll take you both to dinner.” Dad pushed himself away from the table, stretched his hooves over his head and yawned. “But now I think your mother and I could use a nap. That was a long train ride.”
Rarity looked away, resigned. “Yes, of course.” She got up as they excused themselves. She watched from the kitchen door as they walked up the stairs and waited until she heard the guest room door close. “Of all the nerve,” she said indignantly. “Celebrate? Celebrate what? I was under the impression that the only railroading done around here was at the station! Well, we won’t stand for that, now will we?”
Rarity knew all too well that Sweetie Belle was upset, but the quiet shakiness of her voice caught her off guard. “Rarity…do you want me to go?”
Rarity spun around. “Of course I don’t! Why in all Equestria would you even ask…” But looking at her little sister, head down and struggling to hold back the tears, she knew why.
“Those letters you wrote to mom and dad, did you really say I was a burden?”
Sweetie Belle’s question stabbed Rarity through the heart. She hung her head low as she sat back down beside Sweetie Belle. She wasn’t sure where to start, but she couldn’t leave her sister hanging in the silence. “I am very much ashamed of what I wrote in those letters, and I am very sorry you had to hear of them.”
Sweetie Belle began to cry. “So I am a burden to you.”
“No, darling, no!” She took her little sister’s hooves in hers and squeezed tightly. “Please let me explain!”
Sweetie Belle did not return the squeeze. She faced away from her big sister.
“First of all,” Rarity started. “Father exaggerates. It was only two – three letters at the most. But that does not excuse my guilt. When my life was starting to shine at its brightest, I was at my darkest. I had just bought the boutique from Mrs. Button Hook. I was young, on my own, my career was taking off and… and I was very full of myself.” Tears of guilt filled Rarity’s eyes as she confessed her sins to her sister. “So when Mother wrote me that they were sending you to live with me, yes, I did write back that I didn’t want to be burdened.”
Sweetie Belle gasped as the tears ran down her cheeks. She broke away from Rarity and circled the table to the door back to the boutique.
With her own tears hitting the floor, Rarity cried out to her sister. “Sweetie Belle, don’t go! Please, I beg you, let me finish!”
Sweetie Belle stopped short of the door. Only for the love of her sister did she sit and listen.
Rarity came from behind Sweetie Belle and placed a hoof on her shoulder. Sweetie Belle did not react. “In my hubris I had forgotten what it was to be a part of a family. What it was to be a big sister. I’d forgotten the smile on your face when I’d come home from school, or the late nights we’d stay up talking about the future and sharing our lives together.” She came around and placed a gentle hoof under Sweetie Belle’s chin. “But having you here brought me out of my darkness. You taught me what it was to share again. You can forget the shops, forget the fashions I’ve created and the magazines I’ve been in. Nothing has brought me more true joy than generously sharing my home, my life and all the opportunities that Ponyville has given to me with you! We may have started out a bit rough, but that quickly changed, especially after our first Sisterhooves Social. I don’t jump into a puddle of mud for anypony. Only for you. You know this to be true, darling. Please say you know this to be true!”
Sweetie Belle’s crying subsided. She wiped her muzzle with one hoof and put the other on her big sister’s arm. “You were covered in mud from hoof to your horn, weren’t you?”
“I had to be, darling. I didn’t want you to know it was me until we finished the race together.”
“And you hate mud.”
“But not as much as I love you.”
Sweetie Belle finally looked up to her sister. “I do know all that’s true, and I’m sorry I doubted you!” She hugged Rarity tightly.
“I’m the one who’s sorry. I gave you reason to doubt me.”
“Like you said, Sis, that was a long time ago.”
“I will admit,” continued Rarity. “I have very selfish reasons to keep you here with me. But I also truly believe that your education and you future are better served here in Ponyville. Have no doubt, this is a fight we are in together, and it’s a fight I will not let go of!“
“So what do we do?” asked Sweetie Belle.
Rarity pulled away enough to look Sweetie Belle in the eye. Determination came back into her voice. “Well, for starters, we are not going to spend the weekend with this sword of Domiclops hanging over our heads.” She wiped the tears from Sweetie Belle’s cheeks. “You know where Miss Cheerilee lives, don’t you?”
“Yeah.”
“Well, freshen yourself up and go see if she’s home. Explain our situation to her and ask if she would be kind enough to have an emergency parent/teacher meeting with us today.” Rarity turned back to the door and looked up the stairs. “Perhaps if they hear it straight from your teacher they’ll change their mind about taking you away!”
Rarity had been in many battles and was ready for this one. But the whimpering she heard from behind her told her Sweetie Belle was not. Head down and hooves shivering, she was scared. Scared that all she knew and loved was about to be torn away from her. Not by a monster the Elements of Harmony could defeat. Not by a challenge that the determination and courage of the Cutie Mark Crusaders could overcome. But by two well-meaning yet misdirected ponies who had legitimate authority over her. It was the type of fear encouraging words and a plan alone could not overcome.
Rarity sat back down in front of her sister, gently took her in her arms and whispered in her ear, “It’s all right, sweetheart. Cry it out.”

* * *

Sweetie Belle had come across Apple Bloom on the way to see Miss Cheerilee. Now they followed her parents and sister as Rarity extolled the virtues of their teacher.
Apple Bloom whispered to Sweetie Belle. “Don’t worry, Sweetie Belle. I’m sure Miss Cheerilee can convince your parents you should stay.”
“If they listen,” Sweetie Belle answered. “Suddenly, they don’t seem to be very good at it. I don’t understand! They taught me and Rarity to listen.”
“Well, they don’t have you or Rarity around anymore. Maybe they’ve forgotten. But if anypony can teach them again, it’s Miss Cheerilee.”
Sweetie Belle hung her head down. “I hope so. I really hope so.”
They arrived at the schoolhouse in no time. It was weird being there on a Saturday. There were no other fillies or colts in sight. Rarity knocked on the door.
“Come in!” rang out Miss Cheerilee’s voice from inside.
“Good luck,” wished Apple Bloom as Sweetie Belle followed her sister and parents into the building. She then found a spot near and open window and sat down. Ears turned, she strained to hear what she could.
Inside, Cheerilee welcomed them all in. “Hello Hondo Flanks, Cookie Crumbles. It has been a while, hasn’t it? I don’t believe we’ve talked since Sweetie Belle enrolled.”
Hondo looked away, a bit embarrassed. “Yeah, I think you’re right.”
“Don’t worry,” assured Cheerilee. “I know Rarity’s been keeping you up to date on Sweetie Belle’s progress. I wish more parents would take an interest like her. Every time she sees me in town, she always asks how her sister is doing. We had a wonderfully long conversation just a few weeks ago when she was fitting me for a party dress.” She took a seat behind her desk and pointed to four chairs in front. “Why don’t you all have a seat.”
Rarity smiled at Sweetie Belle and winked at her assuringly.
Sweetie Belle started to feel better. She smiled at Miss. Cheerilee as she sat down.
“Thanks for meeting with us on a Saturday,” said Hondo. “Well be able to get a move on a lot faster.” He turned to Sweetie Belle. “Why don’t you go out and play with your friend while the big ponies talk.”
“What?”
“That won’t be necessary,” said Miss. Cheerilee. “There’s nothing I have to say about Sweetie Belle that I wouldn’t want her to hear. She and her two best friends are some of my best students.”
Sweetie Belle smiled from ear to ear.
“I knew she would be,” said Hondo. “She’s just as bright as her big sister.”
Rarity thanked her father. But in light of the situation, the complement seemed hollow.
“Still, we’re just going to be talking about boring old school stuff and records. So off you go!”
“Dad!” Sweetie Belle argued. “You’re going to be talking about my future! I want to be here.”
Cookie leaned over and admonished her daughter. “Sweetie Belle! Don’t argue with your father, especially in front of your teacher!”
“But that’s not fair!” answered Sweetie Belle.
Cheerilee could see that the situation was quickly deteriorating. From her experience, she knew that some parents could be just as troublesome as an undisciplined student. She would have to do something quickly if any useful progress was going to be made.
Rarity turned to her parents. “Mother, Father, I have to agree with Sweetie Belle. As this concerns her and Miss Cheerilee has no objections, I believe Sweetie Belle does have a right to be here!”
Cheerilee stood up from behind her desk. “Everypony, please! There is no need to argue! This is just a simple parent/teacher meeting. Now, everypony please calm down.” She could see that this dynamic was not going to work. With a heavy heart, she made a tough decision. “Sweetie Belle, while I have no problem with you staying, you parents seem to have concerns. Perhaps it would be better if you waited outside.”
Both sisters stared at her in shock. Miss Cheerilee wanted to say she was sorry, but she knew showing favoritism would only lead to more trouble.
“Mind your teacher, now,” said Hondo.
Rarity put her hoof on her little sister’s. “It’s all right, darling. I’ll be your advocate.”
Reluctantly, Sweetie Belle got up and left. She didn’t take her eyes off Miss Cheerilee. For the second time that day she felt betrayed. But she had also learned to trust those adults she knew had her best interests at heart. She watched for a sign she was right.
Hondo turned to Rarity. “You can wait outside, too, if you want. This shouldn’t take long.”
Rarity sneered. “Excuse me, Father, but I’m an adult and I have been acting as Sweetie Belle’s guardian. I shall stay.”
Miss Cheerilee took advantage of their bickering to nod at Sweetie Belle. Sweetie Belle caught the nod as she walked out the door.
As soon as the door closed, Hondo spoke up. “Sorry for the trouble, Miss Cheerilee. I apologize for my two daughters’ behavior.”
“Do not apologize for me, Father.”
Hondo ignored her. “We appreciate you coming out on a Saturday. Now if you’ll give us Sweetie Belle’s school records we’ll be on our way.”
“As long as you’re here,” Miss Cheerilee started. “Why don’t we go over the school curriculum and how she’s been doing.”
“If you think it’ll help her new teacher,” said Hondo.
For the next hour Miss Cheerilee, went through the curriculum and how Sweetie Belle was progressing. She held nothing back. When she hit upon a weak point in Sweetie Belle’s studies, she was quick to point out how she strived to improve her work. She was trying to impress Hondo and Cookie with her teaching ability as much as Sweetie Belle’s progress.

High above Ponyville, Rainbow Dash had Scootaloo out on flight practice. Scootaloo stood on Rainbow Dash’s back, opened her wings and tried to catch some air. She caught some lift, but not quite enough to support all her weight. Disappointed, she landed back down on Rainbow’s back.
Rainbow spun around in mid air to face her. “Not bad, kid! All you need is a little growth spurt and you’re there!”
“Yeah,” said Scootaloo sadly. “But when is that going to happen?”
“I know it’s tough breaks, Scoots, but somepony in class has to be last.”
Scootaloo stood hoof-on-hoof with Rainbow Dash as she flew upside down. “But why does it have to be me?”
“Still, a great workout for both of us,” encouraged Rainbow. “What say we end it with ice cream at Sugar Cube Corner – my treat.”
Rainbow spun back around and started a turn that brought the school into view. “Hey, aren’t those your friends at the school?”
Scootaloo squinted in the direction Rainbow was pointing. “Yeah, but what are they doing at school on a Saturday?”
“Wanna check it out?” asked Rainbow.
Scootaloo nodded and held on as Rainbow Dash descended for landing.
Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle trotted out to meet them as they touched down. “What are you guys doing here?” ask Scootaloo.
“Are you guys in trouble?” asked Rainbow Dash. “Is this some sort of detention? On a Saturday?” She moved in close and smiled conspiratorially. “Was it worth it?”
“Were not in trouble,” said Apple Bloom. “Well, Sweetie Belle is. But it’s not what you think.”
The fillies explained the situation to the two Pegasi.
Scootaloo had her hoof around Sweetie Belle as Rainbow Dash contemplated the school house. “I bet they’re talking about test scores and book reports and stuff like that.”
“Pretty much,” answered Apple Bloom.
“Maybe I can help,” said Rainbow. “Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom, you guys hang tight. Scoots, you’re with me.” They headed for the school.
Rainbow Dash swung open the door and strode right in. “Hi, Miss Cheerilee. How’s it goin’?”
Miss. Cheerilee was caught by surprise. “Oh, hello, Miss. Dash, Scootaloo.”
Rainbow Dash came up to Cookie and Hondo. “You must be Sweetie Belle’s parents, nice to meet you.” Scootaloo took a seat in the front row. Rainbow Dash squeezed into the seat next to her.
Miss. Cheerilee tried to be polite. “Excuse me, Miss. Dash, but we’re in the middle of a parent/teacher meeting.”
“So I heard,” said Rainbow Dash. “I thought I could help out.”
Hondo was confused by the multi-colored mane intruder. “Is she a teacher’s assistant or something?”
“Well, no,” explained Miss. Cheerilee. “Miss Dash sometimes comes in as a coach, or special instructor or counselor of sorts.”
“Exactly!” agreed Rainbow Dash. “I know you’re going over grades and test scores and all that, but a good education is a lot more than reading text books. And believe me, I know all about not reading text books!”
Scootaloo raised an eyebrow and looked at her Pegasus sister, wonder if that was actually a good credential.
Rainbow Dash continued. “A good education is also about experiences and opportunities. You may not think it of our little town, but Ponyville has plenty of those for our school ponies. They’ve had talent shows, harvest festivals, school trips to Canterlot and the castle grounds. The whole school even had a chance to compete to represent Ponyville in the Equestria Games as the flag wavers. And guess who won? Your daughter, Scoots here and Apple Bloom!”
“Yes,” said Cookie. “Sweetie Belle did write us about that.”
Hondo was getting a bit annoyed at the interruption.
But Rainbow Dash wasn’t finished. “Now I’m setting up a visit to the Cloudsdale Weather Factory in the winter and a field trip to the Wonder Bolts Academy during their spring training.”
Scootaloo add excitedly. “Rainbow Dash is a member of their auxiliary team!”
“Yeah, I got connections,” said Rainbow Dash as she leaned back and crossed her hooves behind her head. “And I like using them to help these guys see things they otherwise wouldn’t have a chance to,” she added, punching Scootaloo in the shoulder.
Hondo wasn’t being impressed. “Well, that may be nice for the Pegasi in class, but my daughter isn’t a Pegasus, she’ll have to miss out on this trip to Cloudsdale.”
“Not at all!” answered Rainbow Dash. “Princess Twilight knows this spell that can allow anypony to walk on clouds for three days, so the whole class can go! It helps that Ponyville has a Princess in its own back yard.”
“And Princess Twilight has come in and done several magic and science demonstrations. She lectures at Princes Celestia’s School of Magic as well,” added Chreeilee. “We’re very lucky to have her here in Ponyville.”
“No offense,” said Rainbow Dash. “But I’m guessing that your little town can’t match all that.”
Hondo crossed his arms. “Yes, well, our ‘little town’ also can’t match houses spinning in the air when the Lord of Chaos decides to show up!”
Rainbow Dash cringed. “Ahmmm…”
“And weren’t several homes destroyed, and the playground just outside, when Tirek decided to battle the Elements of Harmony in this town!” added Hondo harshly.
“But it’s okay!” argued Rainbow Dash. “We defeated him and that’s when Twilight got her castle!”
“It is not ‘okay’ that you terrify everypony in town, including my youngest daughter!” Hondo was shouting now. Cookie gently pulled on his arm and tried to calm him down. “I know who you are, you and my oldest daughter and your four friends. Seems to me like the Elements of Harmony invite trouble to this town!”
Rainbow Dash’s ire was up. “Yeah? Well just think what might have happened if we hadn’t been here!”
“I think the better question is would have any of that have happened at all if you weren’t?”
Miss Cheerilee interjected. “Everypony, please! Throwing blame around is not going to help anything, especially Sweetie Belle.”
“And wasn’t it here that Princess Luna decided to have her nightmare break down?” added Hondo. “Again, because the six of you are her friends.”
Rainbow Dash stared accusingly at Rarity.
Rarity shook her head helplessly.
“What? You don’t think we get the newspaper in Swamp Hollow? All things considered, I think Sweetie Belle will be a lot safer with her parents back home.” Hondo turned his attention back to the school teacher. “I think I’ve made our position quite clear. Now if you’ll give us our daughter’s records, we’ll be on our way.”
Miss. Cheerilee sighed. This was the most difficult parent/teacher conference she had ever had. Not what she expected when it was about one of her best students. But she had to admit she had a lot invested as well. She didn’t want to see Sweetie Belle go, either. “Her original records have to stay with the school. But I can have copies ready for you Monday after school.”
Hondo stood and held out a hoof to his wife. “Fine. We’ll pick them up when we pick up our daughter.” He shot a glance to Rarity. They were done here.
Rarity got up, crossing over to Rainbow Dash. “Thank you for trying.”
Rainbow Dash didn’t reply. She didn’t even look at Scootaloo who was trying to be of some console. She was seething. She didn’t like to lose, especially when some other pony had to pay the price.

Sweetie Belle lay across her bed, her best friends at her side.
“I can’t believe how your dad twisted Rainbow Dash’s words!” grumbled Scootaloo. “He should be proud Rarity is an Element of Harmony, and grateful that she can protect you. What a loser!”
“Scootaloo!” Apple Bloom whispered. “He’s still Sweetie Belle’s father!”
Scootaloo came down from her tirade. “Oh, right. I’m sorry Sweetie Belle. I didn’t mean to dis your dad.”
“That’s okay,” she sighed. “I don’t understand any of this either.” From downstairs, they could hear Rarity and her friends. They could also hear Spike offering to make tea and something to eat. Sweetie Belle growled and dug her hooves into the bed.
Apple Bloom looked at her with new concern. “Y’all okay?”
“It’s just the way Spike always offers to help my sister and how she lets him. I even told her I thought she was taking advantage of him.”
They listened to the ponies downstairs. “You’re such a dear, Spike. Thank you,” said Rarity. Then she changed her mind. “Wait, Spike. I don’t want to take advantage of you. Do you feel I take advantage of you? Please be honest.”
“Sounds like you sister listened to you,” said Apple Boom.
From downstairs: “What? No, not at all. I know what you’re going through.” Spike’s voice dipped down slightly. “I don’t want her to leave either.” Sweetie Belle whimpered ever so slightly as Spike’s response. “I just want to help in any way I can.”
“All right, darling. If you’re sure it’s all right,” said Rarity.
“But she does it anyway.” said Sweetie Belle.
“Like any of that’s new.” commented Scootaloo.
“Yeah, but it’s been bothering me a lot lately,” answered Sweetie Belle.
“Why?” asked Apple Bloom.
Sweetie Belle lifted her head to look at her two friends. She considered giving a long response, but with everything going on, she decided she wasn’t up to it. She sank back down into the bed. “It doesn’t matter. I probably won’t be here to worry about it, anyway!”

Fluttershy had stopped by and was given the whole story. She turned to Rarity. “So they just left for dinner without the two of you?”
Rainbow Dash was indignant. “Can you believe it! It’s like they don’t even see how upset Rarity and Sweetie Belle are. Pretty cold, if you ask me!”
Fluttershy was surprised at Rainbow’s outburst. “Ahm, Rainbow Dash. They’re still Rarity’s parents, and she can hear you.”
“Don’t care!” answered Rainbow Dash. “Not when someponys hurts my friends.”
“It’s all right, Fluttershy,” assured Rarity. “It is not Rainbow Dash’s words I take offense at. It is, however, their whole attitude that makes me question the kind of home life they intend to give Sweetie Belle.”
“So what are you going to do?” asked Rainbow Dash.
Rarity’s brows furrowed and her voice lowered. “I’m through playing around. Tomorrow I’m bringing out the big guns!”

* * *

Rarity sat indignant in her throne at the map table, refusing to look at Twilight.
The Princess of Friendship pleaded with her, “Rarity, please understand!”
“Oh, I understand perfectly,” Rarity growled. “I understand that we have reformed the Prince of Chaos, defeated the Queen of the Changelings, blown away the evil King of the Crystal Empire and thrown Tirek back into Hades.” She turned, pointing an accusing hoof at Twilight. “You’ve even gone to another world and a defeated a she-demon, but there’s nothing you can do about my parents!”
Twilight lowered her head. It pained her greatly to refuse Rarity’s request. “Those creatures were evil, they had to be stopped!”
“And what my parents want to do isn’t? Do you have any idea what they’re putting Sweetie Belle through?”
“No!” Twilight insisted. “They’re not evil!”
Rarity raised herself out of her throne and stared incredulously at Twilight.
With her ears low, she moved closer to Rarity. “They’re her parents! They have a right to decide where she lives and where she goes to school. Just because we don’t like it doesn’t make it wrong.”
“But…”
“As long as they take care of her and treat her well, provide a decent home, enough food and an education, there is nothing I can do. There is nothing anypony, not even the two Princesses, should do to interfere. It’s a family matter and it needs to stay within the family.”
Rarity weakened. As desperate as she was, she could not disagree with the sanctity of the family. It was a cornerstone of Equestrian philosophy. She turned away again, but this time more in shame. She stared at the map before her. As an Element of Harmony, she felt sworn to protect Equestria and all its freedoms, even when they didn’t personally suit her. Tears began to fill her eyes. “We? You said, even if we don’t like it.”
“All I know about Swamp Hollow is what you and Sweetie Belle have told me,” Twilight Explained. “It could be a real nice place. But you’re parents sent her here for a better education and to build a life. Now that she has, it seems unfair to take all that away from her, but that’s not my decision.”
Rarity lost the battle to hold back the tears. She felt compelled, for her sister’s sake, to try one more time. “I don’t suppose you couldn’t make a proclamation – just a tiny one?”
Twilight lowered her head and closed her eyes as she pleaded with her friend. “Rarity, please, don’t put me in this position.”
Rarity burst out crying. “You’re right! I’m so sorry, Twilight. I shouldn’t ask you to use your royal authority for my selfish desires!”
Twilight lifter her head to meet Rarity’s eyes and put her hoof on hers. “I meant to have to say ‘no’ to a dear friend.”
Rarity jumped out of her throne to hug Twilight. “I am sorry, darling. Please forgive me. I’m at my wit’s end!” She wiped her face with a handkerchief Spike had brought her. “I don’t suppose you could just… talk to them?”
“Talking I can do.”
“I mean, hearing the opinion of one of the four Princesses of Equestria might persuade them.”
“I’d be glad to, Rarity. Bring them over this afternoon.”
“And I can give them a tour of the castle,” added Spike. “You know, build up the ‘wow’ factor.”
A glimmer of hope came back to Rarity. “Oh, yes. They’ve never been in a castle before! I’m sure they will find it most exquisite.” She put her hooves together in a pleading gesture, then pointed to the top of Twilight’s head. “And I don’t suppose you could wear your crown?”
“I don’t think that’s necessary.”
“Oh, but you look so regal in it!”
“Rarity, I want to speak to them as a friend. I don’t want them to feel lorded over!”
“Very well, Twilight,” Rarity agreed. “I shall acquiesce to your wisdom.” She hugged Twilight again, before returning home.

Sweetie Belle had been prodding Rarity since she returned from the castle with the invitation. “What’s Twilight going to do? Is she going to make some sort of declaration to keep me here?”
“Not exactly,” responded Rarity. “But she will talk to mother and father. I’m sure she will impress them with her Princess wisdom.”

Spike brought his tour of the castle to an end by leading the group into the map room. “If you look above, you’ll see the chandelier made from the root system of our old home, the Golden Oaks Library. Each of those gems is etched with a memory of our time living there.” He searched around until he found the purple gem he wanted to point out. “You can see Sweetie Belle and the Princess in that one. That’s from one of the many magic lessons Princess Twilight has given her.”
Hondo stared at the gem, then back at his youngest daughter. “So you really study with the Princess?”
Sweetie Belle was a bit confused at his reaction. “Well, yeah, every week. I wrote you about it.”
“She did, honey. Remember I read her letters to you?” said Cookie.
“I thought you were in some class held here,” said Hondo.
“Not a class. Just the three of us. Twilight teaches me magic, Scootaloo likes learning mechanical stuff and Apple Bloom wants to learn how to grow bigger and better apples.”
“And the Princess teaches you this stuff herself?”
Sweetie Belle was starting to get annoyed. “Yes, Dad. That’s what I wrote you.”
Rarity intervened. “And she can do so much more with her magic than I could to at her age. All thanks to Princess Twilight.” She stepped up to Spike. “Spike, would you mind if I took over the tour from here?”
“Not at all!”
Rarity led them over to the big, round table in the center of the room. “Of course, the most important part of the room is the cutie-map itself.”
Hondo looked around. All he saw was a table, fancy chairs and shelves of books. “Where do you keep it?”
“Allow me to demonstrate.” She walked around the table to her throne. When she sat down, the three diamond emblem glowed. She tapped the table and the map appeared instantly.
Hondo and Cookie marveled at the map. “How does it work?” Cookie asked.
“The table projects the map itself,” explained Rarity. “Don’t be afraid, you can touch it.”
Hondo tried to touch a mountain range, but his hoof passed through it. Cookie tried as well.
While they were busy, Spike led Sweetie Belle to Twilight’s throne. He had her sit down. He squeezed her hoof in his claw and winked at her. She smiled, knowing she was surrounded by friends who were trying to help her. Spike took his place at the table at his throne.
All this did not escape Hondo’s eye. “I don’t think you kids should be sitting in those chairs.”
“It’s okay,” said Spike. “This one’s mine and Princess Twilight won’t mind.
Hondo sneered. He wasn’t convinced.
“it’s quite all right, really,” Rarity assured.
“So what exactly does the map do?” asked Cookie.
“If you look towards the center, you see our six cutie marks hovering over Ponyville,” explained Rarity. “When there is a friendship problem requiring our assistance, the map moves our cutie marks to wherever we need to be. Sometimes it’s just two of us, others it’s all six. Applejack and I were recently called to Manehatten.”
“Right,” said Hondo. “So you just leave Sweetie Belle home alone. Just like when you go on your fashion tours.”
“I most certainly do not!” responded Rarity. “She goes and stays with Apple Bloom on Sweet Apple Acres.”
“But you said Applejack went with you,” argued Hondo.
“There’s still Big Macintosh and Granny Smith on the farm. And when school breaks allow, Sweetie Belle comes with me on the fashion circuit.”
“I never got this whole fashion thing,” complained Hondo. “Clothes keep you warm in the winter, clean when you work hard and dry in the rain. What more to it than that?”
“It’s not just fashon, Father,” Rarity argued. “I’ve taken Sweetie Belle to museums, concerts and plays in every big city!”
“Remember all the post cards she sent us?” asked Cookie, trying to calm her husband down.
“I especially like the musicals!” added Sweetie Belle.
“That’s nice, honey,” said Hondo. “But you can listen to them on the records like everypony else.”
Rarity was losing her patience. “True theater has to be experience live, Father!”
Spike stood up, “Why don’t I go see if the Princess is available now,” he interjected.
Rarity looked to her father, ready to argue. She then looked to her mother who seemed to be pleading for peace. She backed down, deciding on the better option. “Yes, Spike. You’re quite right. Do see if the Princess is available.”
Spike left the room. A moment later he returned, trumpet in hand. He blew a fanfare and loudly announced, “May I present to you Twilight Sparkle, the Princess of Friendship!”
Twilight froze in the doorway, startled by the trumpeting and the announcement. She was equally surprised to see Spike dressed in a fancy jacket, frilly shirt and bow tie. She raised an eyebrow at him and whispered through her teeth. “Don’t overdo it, Spike!”
Spike spoke back in the same manner. “Just trying to make a good impression, like you.” He darted his eyes from hers to the crown on her head, making his point. She had been deliberating with herself about wearing her crown, now she was sure she had made the wrong choice.
She tried to make amends. “Please excuse my over zealous assistant. I don’t usually need a fanfare. It’s a pleasure to finally meet the two of you.”
With her parents turned away, Rarity silently clapped and pointed to Twilight’s crown.
Hondo and Cookie bowed. “The pleasure is all ours, Princess!” said Hondo.
“Please, there’s no need for that. We’re all friends, here. Call me Twilight.”
Hondo and Cookie hesitated, looking very unsure.
“It’s okay,” Twilight assured. “Everyone in town does, right Sweetie Belle.”
“Right, Twilight!” said Sweetie Belle, smiling.
The Two parents were shocked to see their younger daughter on such familiar terms with a Princess. Twilight ruffled her mane and hugged her.
“One of the drawbacks to a castle this size is that some of the room can be cold and imposing,” Twilight continued. “The kitchen will be a lot more cozy for us to get to know each other.”

Cookie marveled at the delicate flavor of the pastries she was eating. “These tea cakes are marvelous! Please complement your royal baker for us.”
“Actually, I don’t have a royal baker,” explained Twilight. “It’s just me and Spike here. He’s the one that baked the tea cakes and cookies when he heard you were coming.”
“I didn’t know dragons could cook,” said Hondo. “Don’t they just eat their food raw?”
“Spike’s no ordinary dragon,” Twilight explained. “I’ve raised him from a hatching. He’s been with me his whole life.”
“Spike’s great at baking!” Sweetie Belle said excitedly. “He sometimes helps the Cakes out at Sugar Cube Corner. And he can cook…”
“Sweetie, don’t interrupt the Princess,” Hondo admonished.
Sweetie Belle was taken aback. “But I wasn’t…”
Hondo continued over her. “Isn’t it unusual for a dragon to live with ponies?”
Rarity glared at her father. She dropped her elbow on the table and rested her head on her hoof.
Her actions surprised Sweetie Belle. How many times had her big sister told her, ‘A lady does not put her elbows on the table.’
“His egg was found abandoned in the desert,” explained Twilight. “We don’t what happened to his parents. Princess Celestia put him in my charge.” She held out a hoof to Spike, who grabbed it tightly. She then turned back to Hondo. “And Sweetie Belle wasn’t interrupting. I believe she was about to make a point.”
With a nod from Twilight, Sweetie Belle continued. “I was just going to say he cooks really well, too.”
“Well, that’s the same thing, honey,” said Hondo.
“Actually, sir, it isn’t,” corrected Spike. “Cooking and baking are two different culinary disciplines.”
Hondo looked at the young dragon in surprise. He then turned to Twilight for further explanation, but she just tilted her head back toward Spike.
“I learned baking from a pastry chef named Doughnut Joe and I learned my basic cooking from the Royal chefs at Canterlot.”
“And he continues to learn from the Cakes and a collection of cookbooks the Canterlot chefs send him,” added Twilight. “He’s made great use of the opportunities here in Ponyville, just like your daughter has.”
Hondo grumbled. “And I suppose you’re going to tell me she shouldn’t leave, either!”
“There’s a wealth if opportunities for her here, and I do think it would be a shame for her to miss them,” said Twilight.
“And what makes you think she won’t have opportunities in Swamp Hollow?”
“I admit I’m not familiar with your town, but I’ve seen Sweetie Belle’s potential in this one,” Twilight argued. “I’ve helped her with her magic. She can levitate practically her own weight now and she can perform complex operations like knitting. She wants to learn how to teleport and put up a magical barrier. Those are very complex magical spells, but as she grows up, I believe I can teach her.”
“I really want to learn, Dad,” pleaded Sweetie Belle. “And Twilight’s the only one who can teach me.”
Hondo turned to his youngest daughter. “Teleport? A barrier? When would you ever use those kinds of things?” He turned back to Twilight. “Kids her age don’t know what they want,” he said dismissively.
Twilight paused and bit her lower lip. She could see what the real problem was, now. It was their attitude towards Sweetie Belle, specifically Hondo’s. She looked down at her tea and carefully considered her next words. “May I speak candidly with you?”
Hondo eyed her suspiciously, but nodded.
“I understand your desire to have Sweetie Belle with you and watch her grow up. But I think you may have failed to see how much she has already grown. Just in the time we’ve been here, I’ve seen you dismiss what she had to say twice. You treat her like the little filly you sent here to live with Rarity, but she’s not that little filly anymore. She’s a young lady fully capable of knowing what she wants and making decisions for herself.”
Rarity and Sweetie Belle were surprised at Twilight’s straight forwardness, as were Hondo and Cookie.
Twilight continued. “Plus there’s the issue of her cutie mark. As a student of magic I have done a lot of research and have found no other record of unrelated ponies simultaneously receiving matching cutie marks. It’s even rare that identical twins receive their cutie marks at the exact same time. I have to believe that her destiny is tied with those of her two friends. I really feel you need to take these things into consideration before you decide to take Sweetie Belle back with you.”
The room fell silent as Twilight concluded. All looked to Hondo for his response. He remained silent and stoic for what seemed an eternity before responding. “I appreciate your candor, Princess, but what I don’t appreciate is everypony trying to tell me what I can and can’t do with my daughter!”
“All those ponies care about her and just want the best for her,” said Twilight.
“Her mother and I will decide what’s best for her. And that’s to be with her parents, not in a town that attracts disaster.”
“Disaster?”
“Cut to the chase, Princess. Are you going to make some edict saying we can’t take our daughter with us?”
Twilight was startled. “What? No…”
“Because if you are, Princess, I believe you still have to answer to the Royal Sister, just like Princess Cadance. How would they feel about you interfering in a family’s private business?”
Twilight fell silent. She levitated her crown off her head and brought it down to Spike. “Spike, put this away for me, please.”
Spike’s heart had also fallen. He slowly took hold of the crown. “As you wish, my Princess.”
“Spike!” she admonished.
Spike broke the formalities. “Okay, Twilight.”
“I’m not here to speak as a princess.” She turned to watch Spike leave the kitchen. “Spike is much more than my assistant. He is my ward. I’ve raised him since his hatching, so I know something about parenting. We often talk about his love for cooking and the possibility of him going back to Cantelot to enroll in the Royal Canterlot Chef’s Academy. If he does decide to go, I’ll miss him terribly. But I won’t stand in the way of his future. As parents, we all have to make the best decisions for our children, even if it costs us personally. For us, that decision is in the future. But I believe you already made that decision for both your daughters when you sent them here. For Rarity, it was the start of a successful and gratifying career. Please consider what you might be taking Sweetie Belle away from.”
Rarity and Sweetie Belle looked on silently, holding each other’s hooves.
Cookie slipped her hoof into her husband’s. For a moment they just looked into each other’s eyes. The gaze had the effect of calming Hondo down. His shoulders relaxed and the anger was gone from his voice when he finally addressed the Princess again. “If Sweetie Belle wants to return to Ponyville when she’s older, that will be her decision. But for now, we’re not talking about going to an academy or college or university. We’re talking about a basic education which our town is now equipped to offer.”
Rarity held her little sister close as both their ears sagged. Was there nothing that would change their parents’ minds?
Hondo stood up from the table. “We thank you for your time, Princess, and for the tour. But we should get going. My daughter has a lot of packing to do. We’ll be leaving on the morning train tomorrow.”
“What?” exclaimed Rarity.
“But you said we’d leave Monday afternoon! I won’t have a chance to said ‘goodbye’ at school!” said Sweetie Belle.
“You’re new school starts Monday morning. You’re not going to be late.”
Rarity grasped for any argument she could find to help her sister. “But… But her school records and her doctor’s!”
Hondo came muzzle to muzzle with her. “You can mail those to us. Along with whatever she can’t pack tonight.” He headed for the door with Cookie.
Rarity bolted up at that table, aghast. The look she gave Twilight confused her. Rarity ran past her father and turned to face him. “Father! Etiquette requires that you do not turn your back on royalty. She has not dismissed you!”
“Royalty?” Hondo snorted. “I thought we were talking as friends.” He continued past Rarity out the door, Cookie close behind.
Rarity looked on in shock. “It’s still rude!” She put a hoof over her eyes before approaching the Princess. “Twilight, I do apologize for my parents rude behavior!” She said the last part loud enough for them to hear from the main hallway.
“It doesn’t matter,” said Twilight. “I’m the one that’s sorry. I made things worse!” She looked past Rarity. “I’m sorry, Sweetie Belle. I robbed you of your last day at school!”
Tears ran down Sweetie Belle’s face as she and Spiked hugged, his tears mingling with hers. There was deep sadness in her eyes, but no blame. “It’s okay,” she finally managed to say. “I know you tried.”
“It’s not your fault, darling,” Rarity assured. “None of this is.”
From the hallway, Hondo bellowed out, “Come along, girls!”
Rarity’s face reddened as she growled and gritted her teeth. Was her father now treating her as a child as well? If his words were meant to belittle her, it had the opposite effect. They energized her. She turned to Sweetie Belle with new conviction. “Let us go, Sweetie Belle. This isn’t over! I am not letting go of this!”

True to her word, Rarity didn’t let it go. Sweetie Belle and her friends could hear arguing from the guest room throughout the night. As much as she appreciated her sister fighting for her, she hated the arguing. “Stop it, already! Just stop!” she cried out several times as Apple Bloom and Scootaloo tried to comfort her.
It was no surprise that Rarity looked haggard the next morning as they walked to the train station. She had bags under her eyes and her mane was a mess. What was more surprising was her reaction when asked about her state.
Big Mac was pulling a cart with Hondo’s and Cookie’s luggage and the few bags Sweetie Belle managed to pack. Applejack left his side to trot up to Rarity. “You okay, Rarity? You’re not looking… yourself.”
“It doesn’t matter how I look.” answered Rarity. “I failed my sister. She trusted me and I failed her. That’s the only thing that matters!”
Applejack trotted on up to Hondo and Cookie who were leading the group. “Excuse me, Sir. My name is Applejack. I’m Apple Bloom’s big sister.”
“Yes, I know who you are,” answered Hondo grumpily.
“I don’t mean to intrude on your family’s business…”
“Then don’t!” said Hondo curtly.
“Would you just stop for a second and look at what your kin is going through? Especially your youngest!”
Hondo stopped, but he did not look back. Cookie, however, did look back. She saw both her daughters in a terrible state. There was compassion in her eyes as she spoke. “This was not suppose to be like this. We thought she would be happy to be going home with us.”
“Beggin’ your pardon, ma’am, but Ponyville is her home.”
Cookie put a hoof on Hondo’s shoulder. She was beginning to question if what they were doing was right. He looked at her and spoke to her as much as to Applejack. “This drama will all be over as soon as we get out of this town!” He turned back to Applejack. “You’ll excuse me if I’m short with you, but SOMEPONY DIDN’T LET US GET ANY SLEEP LAST NIGHT!”
On the platform, passengers were starting to board the train. Twilight and Spike stayed back a bit, giving Sweetie Belle a last few minutes with Apple Bloom and Scootaloo and Rarity a last subdued argument with her parents.
Rainbow Dash was not one for subtleties. She came up beside Rarity and shouted two words, “THIS STINKS!” Then went back to stand besides Applejack and Fluttershy.
The three Cutie Mark Crusaders huddled together in the last few moments they had. Apple Bloom looked over her shoulder to Twilight and Spike and finally spoke up. “Sweetie Belle, I know we don’t have much time left, but if you really want to say something to Spike, this is your last chance.”
Sweetie Belle looked down, watching her tears hit the floor. She swallowed hard. She didn’t want to leave her friends, but she couldn’t deny what Apple Bloom was saying. “You’re right,” she finally said and left the other two.
She approached Twilight and Spike. She spoke hesitantly. “Spike, before I go, there’s something I’d like to say.” The two of them waited. Sheepishly, she tilted her head toward Twilight. “Ahm, Twilight, if you don’t mind?”
“Oh,” said Twilight, a bit surprised. She walked off to stand with Rarity.
Silence hung heavy in the air as Spike stood expectantly. He could see her cheeks turn red as she had a few false starts. He gently put a claw on her shoulder. “It’s okay, we’re friends. You can tell me anything.”
She felt her heart race as she got up her courage. “Well, Spike, I know how you feel about my sister and all…”
“Its okay, Sweetie Belle. I know what you’re going to say.”
“You do?”
“Yeah,” continued Spike. “You’re going to say that I don’t have a chance with Rarity.”
“Well…”
“Look, I know I’m too young for her. And she does deserve somepony better than me. I get it. I mean, deep down I guess I’ve always known it. I just didn’t want to face it. Maybe someday I’ll get over it, but right now, I just can’t help the way I feel.”
Sweetie Belle stood there, not knowing what to say. What Spike said next surprised her.
“Anyway, thanks Sweetie Belle. I know that was hard for you to say to me. Anypony will tell you what you want to hear, but only a true friend will tell you what you need to hear. Thanks for being that kind of friend.” He hugged her tightly.
A flood of emotions came over Sweetie Belle, leaving her speechless. She fought to control her rapid breath as she fought back tears. Finally she found her voice. “Well, Spike, that’s all true, and I’m sorry. But that’s not what I wanted to say.”
“Oh?”
“It’s just that… It’s just…”
“Go ahead,” encouraged Spike. “It can’t be any worse.”
“Spike, I’m gonna… I’m really gonna miss…” She couldn’t bring herself to say it, nor hold back the tears anymore.
She leaned in and kissed him.
Spike froze. He stared wide-eyed at the filly who’s lips were pressing against his.
She broke the kiss and turned to leave. Then, for a moment, turned back. “I can’t help how I feel, either!” She ran past Twilight, who had seen the display of affection.
Twilight came back up to Spike who was still staring after Sweetie Belle.
“Twilight, did you see…”
“Well, ah, yes,” she answered awkwardly. “I mean, I just turned to see if you were done when… I’m sorry Spike, I didn’t mean to intrude on your privacy. I just didn’t expect…”
“It’s okay. I didn’t expect it, either.”
Twilight moved in close to the still frozen dragon. “Spike, are you okay?”
“To tell you the truth, Twilight, I don’t know how to feel about it.”
She put a hoof around Spike as they both watched Sweetie Belle huddled with her friends. “She’s a really nice girl, Spike. I’m sorry you won’t have a chance to figure it out.”
The conductor shouted out the last call. It was time to go.
Sweetie Belle desperately hugged her sister. “Rarity!”
“This isn’t over, darling! I will not give up on you!”
Hondo pulled Sweetie Belle away, pushing her to the awaiting car.
Rarity gave Hondo a look no daughter should ever give their father.
Sweetie Belle ran through the cars to the last open car at the end of the train. There, she found Rarity, hugging her again.
The train whistle blew, the pistons chugged. The train started to leave.
Rainbow Dash looked at Rarity with concern. She was not moving. She put her hooves around Rarity’s shoulders. “Rarity, the train’s moving!”
Applejack was on her other side. “Rarity, you have to let go!”
Hoof to hoof with Sweetie Belle, she followed the train. “I will not let go! I will not let go!”
Applejack forcefully blocked her from falling off the end of the platform.
Sweetie Belle could only watch as her sister grew smaller in the distance and Ponyville fell into her past.
“Rarityyyyyyy!”
“Sweetie Bellllle!

To be continued…