> Love Sick
>  by FlameingToast
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> I Tried, Really I Did
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sweetie Belle was bored. That never led to good things. She stared up at the ceiling and mumbled "Of course Applebloom and Scootaloo wouldn't be able to go crusading." Sighing she looked around her room at the Carousel Boutique until her eyes landed on the closet. She sprung from the bed, hoping to find something to do. Really anything at all!

Sweetie opened the door and looked inside. There were a few dresses hanging, and a pile of assorted junk, and random things from past crusading attempts. Maybe there's something in here, there's got to be! Sweetie began picking up whatever and unceremoniously throwing them behind her.

"Junk...junk...junk." She muttered as parts of a hang glider, a mirror, and a book were thrown. "Ugh!" Sweetie Belle groaned in defeat. She was about to close the door and find something else to do,like bothering Rarity until she had a nervous breakdown, when she spotted a small jar near the back of the closet. What could that be?

Sweetie picked it up and brought it into the light. It was a small dusty jar. There was a red liquid inside it. It almost looks like...no. We threw all of the love potion away...I think? Sweetie Belle dusted it off so she could get a better look inside. It certainly looked like the love potion. She visibly shuddered, remembering the pet names Big Macintosh had for Cheerilee. But a few things were off. For one, the liquid had a reddish tint to it and it looked thicker than before.

Oh no! Sweetie Belle thought, remembering what the book said about potions changing over time. "Maybe I just don't remember exactly what it looked like." Sweetie said to herself. She unscrewed the lid, and coughed as a sickly sweet odor swept through the room. Coughing and tearing up Sweetie quickly screwed the lid back on. Yeah, that definitely didn't happen before.

I need to get rid of this! If Rarity finds out that I have a love potion again, she'll kill me! Plus this would probably put anypony who drinks it into the hospital! Sweetie Belle picked up the jar in her mouth and opened her door. She looked down the hallway, making sure Rarity wasn't nearby. Not seeing or hearing her older sister, Sweetie Belle ran down the hallway and the stairs until she came to the kitchen. Looking around nervously, she placed the jar on the table next to a tea kettle. Before she could think of what to do next she stopped dead in her tracks as she heard hoof steps heading towards the kitchen.

Sweetie Belle began panicking. Wide eyed and jumping from hoof to hoof she tried to think of a way to get rid of the evidence. As the hoof steps grew closer Sweetie Belle looked at the jar, and then at the tea kettle. She panicked and opened the jar and poured the love potion in the tea kettle. Turning around she threw the now empty jar into the trash can, just as Rarity walked through the door way. Why didn't I just throw the whole thing away!?

"Hello Sweetie, what are you up to?" Rarity asked as she walked over to the table.

"Nothing! Why would you think I'm up to something! 'Cause I'm not!" Sweetie Belle stammered out, obviously lying. Sweetie Belle started to sweat nervously under Rarity's suspicious gaze.

Rarity continued starring at Sweetie Belle try to act innocent for a few more moments before sitting down at the table "Whatever it is that you've done Sweetie Belle, it  better have nothing to do with my dresses."

Sweetie vigorously shook her head "I didn't, I swear!"

Rarity shrugged. I hope what she's done isn't too catastrophic. Rarity picked up the tea kettle with her magic and was about pour herself a cup when Sweetie Belle gave a small yelp.

"Okay what are you hiding from me?" Rarity questioned as she put the kettle back on the table. Before Sweetie Belle could try and come up with a suitable lie, there was a knock at the door.

Rarity smiled "That must be Twilight."

"Why is Twilight here?" Sweetie Belle wondered taking notice of how late in the day it was.

Rarity brought out a tray and two cups and placed the cups and the tea kettle onto the tray "We usually meet once a week for tea" She didn't notice Sweetie's left eye twitch in frustration "and talk about this and that." Rarity walked in to the living room and placed the tray on a table before trotting over to the front door.

Rarity opened the door and smiled at her friend "Come in Twilight."

"Thank you Rarity." Twilight smiled back.

Sweetie Belle ran out of the kitchen and into the living room. She hid behind the couch and slowly peeked out from the side. Twilight and Rarity were still in the parlor talking with each other about whatever it is that they talked about. It's now or never, Sweetie Belle thought frantically. Trotting over to the the tray she picked up the kettle and began pouring out the potion into a nearby flower pot.

A pair of voices were approaching the living room so Sweetie Belle placed the kettle back where it was and ran up the stairs to watch. I think I finally got rid of it.

Rarity and Twilight Sparkle sat across from each other and paused the conversation when Rarity politely asked "Would you like some tea?"

Twilight nodded "Of course I would." Sweetie Belle watched in horror as Rarity poured Twilight about a half a cup of the tea potion. I DIDN'T EMPTY IT ALL! She mentally screamed at herself.

Rarity shook the kettle "I could've sworn there was more than that. I'll be right back Twilight." Rarity headed back into the kitchen to fetch some regular tea, most likely not poisoned. Sweetie Belle considered her options at the top of the stairs. I could always try to explain why there's a love potion in the drink, or on the other hoof I could lock myself in my room. Sweetie Belle decided when she saw Twilight beginning to drink the potion. Room it is.

She hurried into her room and quickly bolted the door. Panting, Sweetie Belle climbed into her bed and laid down. Well that wasn't boring, Sweetie thought with a small laugh as Rarity shouted from downstairs.



> Feel The Love
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"I'll be right back darling." Rarity said walking into the kitchen.Twilight just nodded and looked around the room as she waited for Rarity to return. Twilight lifted the tea cup up to her mouth and began to drink the oddly fragrant tea. Twilight swallowed the potion and licked her lips at the unusual fruity flavor.

"Wow, that's really good t-" Twilight eyes widened and she went rigid. Everything turned a pinkish hue, and the room filled with an overpowering scent. Just as soon as it started, it stopped. Everything turned back to normal and the smell was gone. Twilight shook her head, completely riding herself of the haze.

Twilight rubbed her eyes. What the heck just happened! She looked up at the doorway when she heard Rarity walk into the room."I forgot to ask, how did that new spell go?" Rarity asked coming into view. Twilight's answer died in her throat as she saw Rarity.

Twilight watched in awe as everything became fuzzy again. Except this time...it was different. Everything had a light pink haze around it, except for Rarity. She could see Rarity very clearly. She practically shone with beauty. Her bright smile and beautiful eyes were entrancing. Everything about her was perfect.

Rarity looked back at Twilight "Is there something on my face?" Rarity asked seeing Twilight's stare. Twilight just continued to stare at Rarity. The haze went away once again, but Rarity looked just as clear and radiant as did when it appeared.

Rarity sat down on the couch next to Twilight "Are you okay dear?" Rarity asked, waving her hoof in front of her friends face.

Twilight nodded "Yeah, I'm perfect!" And so are you Twilight thought.

"For a moment there I was worried!" Rarity frowned when Twilight continued to just look at her and lean a little closer. "Twilight are you sure you're okay?." This is strange, Rarity thought a little unnerved at her stare. It's kind of getting weird.

Twilight smiled wider "I'm sorry if I was staring, but you just look so pretty!" Rarity's face adopted a light blush "You look absolutely stunning!" Twilight blushed a little herself, letting everything she thought spill out.

Rarity felt her face grow warm "Uh, thank you? I have been trying a new mascara, I do think that it looks rather good."

Twilight giggled like a school filly "It certainly does make you look sexier than usual." Rarity spluttered and coughed on the tea she was drinking.

"W-what did you say!" Rarity stammered. She didn't just say-

Twilight got up and sat next to Rarity on the couch "You didn't hear me?" Twilight oblivious to what Rarity meant "I was just commenting on how you look sexy." Twilight chuckled again.

"Did you hit your head when I left or something?" Rarity nervously asked. Dear sweet Celestia what the hay is happening!

Twilight shook her head "Nope, I'm just seeing how amazing you are for the first time" She leaned closer to Rarity until she was face to face with her friend. "and I really wanna kiss you." Apparently subtlety wasn't something Twilight was familiar with, well a love potion will do that to you.

"You're violating my personal space Twilight!" Rarity got off of the couch and began backing away.

Twilight's ever growing smile diminished into a frown "What's wrong Rarity? Am I being too forward for your liking?" Twilight said, looking like a hurt puppy making Rarity feel bad.

Rarity tentatively walked back to Twilight "What's going on Twilight, why are you acting like this?"

Twilight sighed "I think I'm in love with you Rarity..." Twilight eagerly watched for her reaction.

Rarity stood there surprised and shocked "Whya" was all she could muster. 

Twilight grinned again and suddenly jumped off the couch and in front of Rarity, before Rarity could protest she noticed something off. Twilight's eyes flashed purple, and then returned to normal.

It almost looks like Cheerilee when she was. And suddenly it all came to Rarity. Sweetie Belle acting strange, the past love potion fiasco, how she was acting weird next to the tea in the kitchen. "SWEETIE BELLE!" Rarity screamed at the top of her lungs.


***


Sweetie Belle cringed at the anger in her sisters voice. Trotting over to the door Sweetie reached for the handle and stopped halfway. I really should help her, It is kinda my fault. But I'm going to get punished for this big time anyways. She smiled and sat down on the floor. Might as well let her handle this for now...I should at least get to have a little fun.


***


Twilight pulled Rarity into a bone crushing bear hug "You're so soft and cuddly" Twilight laughed as Rarity struggled to breath.

"You're hurting me." Rarity choked out. Twilight slackened her death grip."Y-ou need to listen to me Twilight! You're under the effects of a love potion!." Rarity said trying to snap her out of it.

Twilight frowned for a moment but her smile returned instantly "You gave me a love potion? You want to be with me too!" Twilight squealed in delight.

"No, of course not!" Rarity snapped, growing frustrated. Rarity wished she could take back her harsh words as Twilight began to cry.

"Y-ou don't want to be with me?." Twilight stammered as tears welled up in her eyes. Before Rarity could do anything Twilight ran into the bathroom near the the kitchen and slammed the door.

I shouldn't have been so angry at her, Rarity sighed as the sound of muffled crying, its not even her fault. Rarity felt her anger boiling over. "Sweetie Belle, you are dead!" Rarity shouted in a voice positively dripping with venom. 

Sweetie Belle gulped. Maybe things went too far? Sweetie Belle's pupils shrank in fear as the sound of heavy hoof steps came up the stairs, and came to a stop right outside her bedroom door.

The bolt was enveloped in a blue aura and crumbled to dust. Rarity pushed open the door with her hooves and looked around the room for the filly. Sweetie Belle cringed from under the bed as she could see her sister step closer to the bed. At least I'm well hidden Sweetie thought just before she was pulled out from under the bed.

Floating in midair Sweetie Belle nervously smiled "Uh...hey sis." If looks could kill, Sweetie would be dead twice.

"Do you have any idea why Twilight just told me she loved me?" Rarity asked in an accusatory tone.

"She just worked up the courage?" Sweetie Belle sighed at Rarity's less than amused face "I-I might of had...a little to do with that."


***


Twilight sniveled, looking at herself in the mirror. I shouldn't have been so sudden, maybe the sexy remarks had been a little overkill. Twilight dried her eyes and sat on the floor. What do I do now? She doesn't like me that way...but maybe she could! Twilight stood up smiling again looking at herself in the mirror 

"She's going to love me!" Twilight began formulating a plan to win over Rarity as her eyes flashed purple.

> Just One Little Kiss?
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rarity sat downstairs in the kitchen, thinking of how to fix her not so little problem. Sweetie Belle was currently in her room and was to stay there until the end of time. Rarity sighed and laid her head down on the table in a mixture of frustration, and sleepiness. Can this get any worse? Of course it could. She noticed from the diminishing light in the kitchen that Celestia was setting the sun. What do I do with Twilight? She's still in the bathroom, but at least the crying stopped. It's getting late and it would be rude to make Twilight walk all the way home, under the potions influences, especially if there were any side effects not showing yet(or she told somepony about her new crush). 

She could always spend the night, but preferably not in the same room. I saw that look in her eyes, and I don't want any of my friends giving me...that...look. I should check on her, Rarity finally decided, sick of just sitting and not doing anything about the problem. Rarity had been waiting to see what Twilight did, but at this point it didn't look like she would come out of the bathroom on her own. 

Rarity trotted out down the hallway towards the bathroom. Stopping outside of the bathroom, Rarity put her ear to door and listened for any sobbing. When she heard nothing at all Rarity became a little worried "Twilight? Are you okay in there?" 

"Yeah Rarity!" Twilight replied, opening the door. 

Rarity gave her a nervous half-smile "I do hope you realize that I wasn't trying to be mean. Do you forgive me?" 

Twilight nodded her head vigorously "Of course I do! I realize that I was coming on a little too strong." Twilight Sparkle grinned 

"Well, I'd appreciate it if you didn't 'come on' to me at all. It's a little strange." A lot more like it, Rarity thought. Don't want to make her cry again.

Twilight smirked at Rarity "Fine, I'll promise not to do anything that you don't like." Twilight smiled wider "On one condition!"

I'm going to regret asking this "What condition is it?" Rarity asked apprehensively.

"You give me a kiss!" Twilight leaned forward expectantly.

"Wha-bu-NO!" Rarity frowned "I told you that the only reason you are attracted to me is because of Sweetie Belle's love potion!" Rarity shouted.


***


Sweetie Belle stared at the ceiling of her bedroom, unmoving and constantly sighing aloud. Her ears perked up when she heard her older sister yell "Sweetie Belle's love potion!" That's so unfair! It wasn't just me! Sweetie Belle glared at the floor where the voice had come from. 

"I don't see you yelling at Applebloom or Scootaloo for making the potion to!" Sweetie murmured. Since I'm going down, they're going down with me! Sweetie Belle grinned evilly.


***


Twilight frowned a little "I don't care whose fault it was, or why. All I care about is how I feel, and that I'm in love with you!" Twilight gave Rarity her puppy dog eyes. 

There's no way that I'm going to be able to get through to her. "Okay Twilight, I'm not going to kiss you first of all." Rarity looked away from Twilight.

Twilight asked hopefully in a quiet voice "Just one little teensy weensy kiss?" 

"No." Rarity shook her head. "But there's something more important  we need to deal with at the moment. It looks like you're not going to return to normal for awhile, and I would hate to kick you out this late." Rarity glanced at Luna's rising moon "So would you like to stay the night?"

Twilight blinked in surprise, then smirked at Rarity "Spend the night huh?" She giggled at Rarity spluttering once again. This is just too much fun.

"You know that I didn't mean it like that! I thought I told you not to do this!" Rarity said, blushing. 

Twilight walked over to Rarity "And I said that I wouldn't if you kissed me." Twilight replied.

Rarity turned around and began trotting towards the living room "Then you can just forget about staying!" Rarity said in a huff.

Twilight sighed "Okay, I'm sorry." I shouldn't have to apologize for how I feel! "I'd love it if I could stay the night. And I'll try to keep my feelings to myself, even though you're the most beautiful mare in the world."

Rarity was glad she wasn't facing Twilight, so that she couldn't see her blush from the compliment. "Okay then, but tomorrow we are going to Zecora's as soon as possible!"


***


Sweetie Belle was plotting her revenge when she heard a knock on her door. "Sweetie Belle?" Rarity called out.

Sweetie frowned and hopped off the bed, with her tail dragging on the floor she went over to the door and opened it. "Hi Rarity, hi Miss Twilight." Sweetie Belle felt a little guilt at seeing Twilight staring at Rarity while hugging her tightly, but it was just too funny to see Rarity's expression.

"Sweetie Belle, could you apologize to Twilight." Rarity pushed Twilight's hoof away as she began caressing Rarity's face.

Sweetie stifled a laugh "I'm sorry for accidentally poisoning you." She gave her sweetest smile she could muster. 

Twilight grinned "That's okay Sweetie! I haven't felt this happy in ages!" She frowned as Rarity pushed Twilight off herself. 

"Okay Sweetie Belle, school is tomorrow you should be going to sleep." Rarity tried to suppress a yawn herself as she watched her younger sister climb into her bed and pull the covers over herself. 

"Sweet dreams Sweetie." Rarity said, shutting the door and turning off the lights with her magic.

Twilight looked at Rarity and saw just how tired she was. Feeling tired herself she and Rarity walked to her bedroom.

Rarity levitated a mattress out from the closet and set it to the left side of the bed. She then covered it in two blankets and tossed a few pillows on the makeshift bed.

"Will this be okay Twilight?" Rarity asked. It doesn't matter that she's fallen in fake love with me, she's still my friend and she should be comfortable.

"I'd prefer sleeping with you." Twilight said with a sad sigh. 

Rarity gave her a small smile "I'm sorry Twilight, but I wouldn't be comfortable, at all." 

"I just wanted to be near you." Twilight frowned as she crawled into her makeshift bed. She sighed and gazed at the opposite wall with the saddest expression Rarity had ever seen. 

Seeing Twilight look so forlorn hurt Rarity. She's one of my best friends, Rarity thought feeling guilty. Without really thinking Rarity leaned over and planted a kiss on Twilight's cheek "Goodnight Twilight." 

Twilight looked at Rarity for a moment shocked with her hoof on the part of her cheek where Rarity's soft lips were moments ago, but then smiled brightly and she looked  happier than Rarity had seen her in awhile "Good night Rarity!" Twilight grinned and laid down on her makeshift bed.

Rarity gave her a genuine smile, glad that she wasn't sad anymore. Rarity turned out the lights and laid down in her own bed. The busy day and love potion fiasco had taken all of her energy, and within minutes was asleep. Twilight looked over at Rarity's sleeping form and touched her cheek once again, before closing her eye's and falling asleep to the thought of how blissful she felt with Rarity, even if she only developed these feelings hours ago. I love her so much...

> A Normal Stroll Through Ponyville Market
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Bright sunlight streamed through the window, shining directly in Rarity's face. With a yawn Rarity slowly opened her eyes and looked down at her lightly snoring friend. Twilight was undisturbed by the bright light and continued to sleep. Rarity carefully got out of bed and walked as quietly as could out of the room. She went down the hallway and was pleasantly surprised to see Sweetie Belle already up and preparing for school.

"Glad to see that you're already up Sweetie." Rarity smiled at her younger sister. She sighed as Sweetie Belle ignored her and gave her the silent treatment.

"Okay Sweetie Belle, I'm sorry for losing my temper. After school you may go and play with Applebloom and Scootaloo." Rarity gave a small smile at Sweetie Belle's face lighting up in joy.

Sweetie Belle jumped off the ground and gave Rarity a bear hug "Oh thank you Rarity! You're the kindest, most beautiful, forgiving mare in the world!"

Rarity rolled her eye's "Thanks for the compliment. But you're still in trouble for what you did."

Sweetie Belle let go of Rarity "You can't blame me for trying...right?" 

Rarity gave a small chuckle "Let's get you some breakfast before you go to school." Rarity walked downstairs with her sister bouncing down the staircase in front of her. Rarity didn't feel like cooking anything so she instead got Sweetie Belle a bowl of cereal, and she made herself some coffee. As Sweetie Belle ate, Rarity told her what today's plan was.

"Sweetie Belle, I'm going to need you to not come back to the boutique today." Sweetie Belle began to protest but Rarity shushed her. "Twilight and I are going to see if Zecora can cure her, so nopony will be home. And I really don't need another...incident."

Sweetie Belle groaned "I put out the fire, okay! Can you please stop bringing it up!" 

Rarity frowned looking at the clock "You better leave for school Sweetie Belle. I'm sure Applejack will watch you, I'll pick you up from there."

"Okay. See ya' sis!" Sweetie Belle shouted as she ran out the front door and down the street.

Rarity sat down at kitchen table and took small sips from her coffee as she glanced at an article in last weeks fashion magazine. She looked up from the magazine when she heard hoof steps coming downstairs. Twilight walked into the kitchen yawning.

Twilight's sleepiness seemed to vanish upon seeing Rarity, she cracked a small smile. Remember to tone it down.

Rarity returned the smile half-heartedly "Good morning Twilight."

"Good morning!" Twilight happily replied sitting at the table.

"Would you like something to eat?" Rarity asked when she heard Twilight's stomach growl.

"Just an apple please!" Twilight said.

Rarity gave Twilight the apple and began to tell her her plan.

"After you're done eating Twilight we should head down to Zecora's for help." Rarity swallowed nervously "I need to stop by the market on our way, please try not to act in love with me." Rarity pleaded.

Twilight smile drooped a little "Sure thing Rarity, whatever makes you happy." Rarity sighed in relief.


***


Rarity and Twilight left the Boutique without attracting any attention. But Rarity began feeling nervous once they reached the main street. Oh please Twilight don't make a fool of yourself or me.

Twilight knew that if she did anything, Rarity would be mad. I need to make her like me more than just friends, messing with her probably wouldn't help me. Or maybe I could have a little fun if we run into one of the girls! This happy idea gave Twilight a little bounce in her step.

Rarity and Twilight turned around the mail office and entered the market. Nopony who saw them would think anything weird was going on, except somepony might notice that Twilight looked unusually happy. Applejack was one of those ponies. 

Rarity was holding her breath, awaiting for someone to come over and talk to them. After a few seconds of no one approaching them, she looked around. She let out the breath. Good none of our friends are her-

"Howdy Rarity, Twilight!" Applejack said.

Rarity jumped from fright, and Twilight just kept smiling and lightly humming.

"Sorry if Ah scared yah Rarity." Applejack chuckled at her reaction.

Rarity's face adopted a slight blush "I was not scared! You just startled me, there's a difference."

Applejack rolled her eyes "Sure, whatever you say sugarcube." Turning towards Twilight she addressed her "So what's got yah in such a good mood Twilight? Yah get a new book or something?"

Twilight gave Rarity a small smirk that made Rarity begin to freak out inside. "Well something new and wonderful did happen!" she said in a sing song tone of voice.

"Well what is it sugarcube?" Applejack asked curiously, not noticing Rarity begin to blush.
I swear if she says anything I'll kill her! Rarity thought angrily as Twilight began to answer.

"So last night I stopped by Rarity's and something interesting happened." Twilight giggled "Rarity k-" the rest of her sentence was muffled by Rarity shoving her hoof in her mouth.

Rarity's face was beet red as she tried to finish the sentence "Rarity kept asking me if I wanted a scarf! Is what she was going to say! I mean it's getting close to winter!" She exclaimed.

Applejack frowned "Okay, something isn't right. What's going on here?" She raised an eyebrow suspiciously.

"Whatever are you talking about Applejack? I just thought Twilight would want a scarf for chilly winter days coming!" Rarity stammered out while still keeping Twilight quiet.

"It's the beginning of summer." Applejack deadpanned.

Rarity giggled "I just wanted to get a head start, that's all! Well, we have some important business to take care of before I can make Twilight that new saddlebag."

"I thought you said it was a scarf?" Applejack asked accusingly.

Rarity was dragging Twilight with her as she ran down the street shouting back "I really need to get going! See you later!" Applejack watched them leave with a frown on her face. I'll find out what the hay is going on with them.

After Rarity had put sufficient distance between herself and any problems, she let go of Twilight and gave her a death stare.

Twilight blinked and said "What? I was just having a polite conversation with Applejack."

"If you do that again, I will have a heart attack and probably die." Rarity whispered as she felt her heart rate go down. Thank Celestia she didn't say anything. They both started to walk towards their destination when Twilight broke the silence.

"....So I hear you're making me a scarf!" Twilight chuckled cheerfully. Rarity sighed loudly.


***


After the near disaster with Applejack, Rarity made sure to be on the look out. Everything was going well at each stand. She would get some cloth, or maybe some silk, or whatever caught her eye. Just as they were about to leave the market, Rarity laid her eye's on a beautiful golden brooch shaped like a rose.

"I just have to get that!" Rarity said to Twilight while pointing at the stand.

"Ugh" Twilight said momentarily letting her thoughts drift from Rarity. "That stallion always has ridiculous prices for the things he sells, and he never lowers them."

Rarity giggled "Oh I'm sure I can get a discount."

Twilight began to feel uneasy "What do you mean?"

"You'll see." Rarity smirked while walking towards the stand. Twilight followed nervously.

The earth pony stallion looked up from a magazine he was reading. His coat was light grey and he had brown eyes. His Cutie mark was a pile of bits.

"Well who might you be, you handsome stallion." Rarity asked in a happy tune.

Twilight narrowed her eye's. Just ignore it...she doesn't actually like this dumb greedy oaf. Twilight shook her head. I shouldn't be thinking bad of other ponies.

"My names Transaction. Are you here to buy something?" He said blushing slightly.

"Well I would love that delightful brooch!" Rarity excitedly pointed at it while fluttering her eyelash's.

"Sure thing miss." He replied, giving her a grin. He placed it in the counter and said "That'll be 20 bits please."

Rarity now adopted puppy dog eye's "Oh no... I only have 5 bits." Looking at him with pleading eye's she asked "Is there any chance I could get a discount?" Although Twilight couldn't stand watching this, she had to admit, Rarity was a good actor.

His expression softened "Well...I don't usually do this sort of thing. But for a beautiful mare like you, how about five bits and you and me could grab lunch sometime?" Transaction winked at Rarity.

That dumb greedy oaf is going to get it. Twilight thought with anger. She pushed past Rarity as she began to answer.

"How about you just give my marefriend-" Rarity gave a double take. "her discount so we can leave." She said with a furious gaze.

The stallions eye's widened "You mean-" he began, but Twilight interrupted him.

"Yeah, you heard me. She prefers a mare's touch if you know what I mean." She gave him a once over "And it looks like you just happen to have the wrong parts." Rarity and Transaction's mouth's were hanging open and they both were staring at Twilight, faces completely red.

Twilight threw five bits on the counter and levitated the brooch into Rarity's saddlebag.

She leaned closer to Transaction and whispered "If I ever catch you hitting on her again, I swear to Celestia I will turn you into an orange." With one last glance at the shopkeeper she began walking away and pushed through the small group of ponies who had watched the whole thing.

They all stared at Rarity. After a few seconds Rarity fully comprehended the spectacle that had just happened in front of her. She looked around her and saw about ten ponies staring at her.

Rarity's face turned apple red and she ran in the direction of Twilight, barely keeping very unladylike words from being shouted.

"Why is everything happening to me!!" She angrily whispered as she caught sight of her friend, who was now beaming as she trotted towards Zecora's.

That went well, Twilight thought.





> How Long Now!?
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Why on Equestria would you do that!" Rarity yelled at the now nervous Twilight. "Do you have any idea what you just did! The rumors will be everywhere! I won't be able to show my face around here!" She finished.

Twilight sighed "Maybe I did get a little out of hand. I just felt a little jealous when he asked you out. It's not like I even said anything to bad...right?"

"You shouted in public that I was a lesbian, and was dating you." Rarity said in a monotone voice. Rarity saw Twilight's eye's begin to water.

Curse her puppy dog eyes! Rarity thought, feeling herself calm down a little.

"Well...I guess I did sort of bring this on myself. I really shouldn't have done that with you feeling how you feel." Rarity frowned.

"Let's just get to Zecora's..." Rarity mumbled. Twilight bowed her head and began following Rarity into the Everfree.


***


Rarity felt a little better once Zecora's bungalow came into view. Finally! We can get this whole fiasco sorted out.

Twilight was anxious. What if I'm not in love with Rarity after this...no, these feelings could never change. She stared at Rarity's angelic eye's and perfect appearance. It wasn't only her looks that had Twilight in love, it was also her generosity, kindness, and her refined tastes and personality. That could never go away.

"You really are perfect, you know that Rarity?" Twilight said as Rarity stopped in her tracks. She sounds so sincere. This one felt as if Twilight meant it beyond the poison. Must be a really effective potion, Rarity decided on. But she wasn't so sure.

"Thank you." Rarity replied not sure what to say, before walking up to the door. She knocked on the door, and in a few moments it was opened by Zecora.

"Hello, Zecora. May we come inside?" Rarity asked politely.

Zecora nodded her head "Allow me to put my cauldron aside, and you may come inside."

"Thank you, I really need your help. Er, we need your help." Rarity glanced at Twilight who was remaining quiet. "You see, my little sister Sweetie Belle had unfortunately kept some of her love poison. Twilight drank it, and now she's in love with me." Rarity glanced at Twilight who looked distracted.

"I really want to know why Twilight's acting crazier than Cherrilee or Big Macintosh. I'm at my wit's end!" Rarity gave  a dramatic sigh.

Zecora gave a small smile "Ah, Rarity. No need to cry, I too want to know why."

Rarity gave a sigh of relief as Twilight broke out of her reprieve.

"So, I'm guessing you'll want to know everything we can tell you about the potion?" Twilight asked.

Zecora nodded, and Twilight poked Rarity "Tell her every little detail you can remember. Potions that are left alone can lose or gain effects depending on how long they have been festering."

"Glad to see that your still a fountain of knowledge." Rarity said jokingly, which made Twilight blush.

Rarity turned towards Zecora and started to list off everything that she could remember. "Well, obviously Twilight's fallen in love with me. Also she gets very jealous when somepony else shows that they like me." Rarity gave Twilight a quick glare, reminding her that although things had sort have been forgiven; they were most certainly not forgotten.

"She's been having..." Rarity paused searching for the right words. "Mood swings, I would call them. Yesterday she went from ecstatic to sad, and today she was mostly normal. Until she became very angry and humiliated me."

"I said I was sorry, okay!" Twilight harrumphed.

Rarity sighed "No. No you didn't."

"Oh..." Twilight trailed off "...sorry?" She added weakly.

Zecora furrowed her brow "Twilight has there been anything wrong with your eyesight."

Twilight tapped her chin "Well, when I look at Rarity she shines like a goddess. So nothing weird there." She grinned "Oh, and sometimes everything becomes hazy and pink!"

Rarity became concerned "Zecora, should we be worried for Twilight's well being? I mean...is she going to get sicker?"

Zecora shook her head "I can't divine, but I'm sure she will be fine. Although, I do not know what to do about this pinkish hue."

Rarity's face fell "You mean you don't know how to cure her?" Zecora nodded.

"How long will she be this way?" Rarity asked, dreading the answer.

"It isn't clear, it could be a year." Zecora answered.

"HOW LONG!?" Rarity exclaimed. "We can't wait that long! Can't you just cure her now!?"

"Rarity." Twilight started "She doesn't have a sample of the potion to help her figure out a cure. Also, even though I did drink love poison and have some of the symptoms; I also have ones that I shouldn't.". She frowned "So that will make it even harder for her to figure out the cure."

Rarity shook her head confused "Okay, I think I understand. But  I still don't understand one thing." She turned towards Twilight "You are so sure about your symptoms, but you really believe you have fallen in actual love with me?"

Twilight shrugged "Facts are facts. I drank the poison, I'm experiencing symptoms I shouldn't be. Like the pink haze. But I'm also not focusing  my full attention on you constantly...actually scratch that. I have most of the symptoms."

Twilight shook her head "Anyways, what I'm trying to say is I love you and nothing's going to change that. I don't care what the potion did to my brain, my love isn't artificial."

Zecora sighed turning to Rarity "I'll try to find out what's wrong, it won't take too long."

Rarity nodded her head "Okay. Thanks Zecora, I know you'll be able to fix this." Turning around she started to leave the cottage.

"See ya!" Twilight cheerily waved, while bounding after Rarity. Zecora shut the door and started reading through her book, searching for the page about the love poison.

Twilight and Rarity were walking side by side while the sun was high above them. They were walking quietly until Twilight broke the silence.

"So...where do we go now?" Twilight asked.

"What do you mean?" Rarity frowned.

"Should we have a sleepover at my house, or yours?" She replied.

Rarity chuckled "Maybe some other time. How about I just walk you home."

Twilight smiled "I'm going to hold you to that." Maybe she's not mad anymore!

"Oh, I have no doubt about that." Rarity grinned. Feeling in a slightly better mood. They encountered nopony that knew about the earlier incident on their way to the library. At least things are getting a bit better, Rarity thought.

"Would you like to come in for some tea?" Twilight asked hopefully.

Rarity shook her head "I'm pretty drained right now." Twilight's lip started to quiver "Alright! I'll come in as long as you promise to stop guilting me into things."

Twilight nodded "I promise." She opened the door, and both walked inside. I hope I can finally relax a little now, Rarity thought. Twilight was about to ask her something when they were interrupted by an "Ahem."

They both looked down at Spike, who had his arms crossed and was glaring at them.

"I heard some interesting things at the market today." He said angrily.
> Spike V.S. Twilight 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Spike glare shifted from Twilight to Rarity as he tapped his foot impatiently.

Rarity smiled "What did you hear Spike?" Maybe I can save this.

"I heard, what I hope, is a rumor." Spike replied curtly "About you two." he added, his voice cracking slightly.

Twilight frowned "Oh no! Is somepony telling lies about us?!" Twilight said worriedly.

Spike pointed a finger accusingly at Rarity. "I heard that you and Twilight were in love and dating!"

Twilight gave a sigh of relief "Oh, thank goodness. For a moment I thought ponies were spreading lies about us." She started walking towards the couch.

"I knew it!" Spike yelled. Tears welling in his eyes, he started to stomp upstairs.

Rarity quickly grabbed Spike's shoulder. "Spike, let me explain! She doesn't know what she's talking about."

"What are you saying?" He said nervously "Don't try and lie to me."

Rarity smiled "I Pinkie Promise that I'm not lying." She began. "Well, it all started last night when Twilight came over..."


***


"So I don't know how long it'll be before she gets better." Rarity finished. It had been a half an hour since she started the story. The whole time Twilight was lounging on the couch reading a book. Spike finally grinned upon hearing that he wasn't losing Rarity.

"I knew I had nothing to worry about." Spike smiled confidently "I knew that it wasn't what it sounded like when Rainbow Dash told me."

"R-Rainbow Dash!?" Rarity exclaimed "She told you what happened?"

Spike nodded "Apparently Twilight's freak out is spreading like wild fire." Spike shook his head "Then she told me to ask 'have you two done it yet'. Done what?" Spike asked innocently.

Rarity's face was deep red "I'm not sure what she meant by that." Eager to change the subject, she said "Well, I better be off now." She turned to leave but Twilight sat up.

"Wait! I thought that we were going to have tea!" Twilight frowned "You promised."

"Well, you promised to stop guilting me into things. This counts." Rarity sighed "I just want to go home and rest for a little while."

Twilight sighed "Fine. Then I guess I'll see you tomorrow."

"That's fine." Rarity said rubbing her forehead. I have the worst headache "Well good-bye Twilight, Spike." Rarity shut the door behind her as she began trotting towards her home.

Twilight put the book on the coffee table and walked to the kitchen yawning "Do you want something to drink?"

"No thanks." Spike replied. He walked over to the coffee table and picked up the book Twilight was reading.

"101 Ways To Woo Your Mare." He muttered, reading the title aloud. "Twilight, why are you reading this? I thought that you thought these kinds of books were trash."

Twilight trotted back into the room taking a sip of water. Putting the glass down she levitated the book to her and answered. "Well, I needed some ideas on how to get Rarity's attention."

Spike frowned "I already think that you have her attention." he grumbled.

"Really!?" Twilight squealed. "Then I'm ahead of schedule!"

Spike grinned "Sorry to burst your delusional bubble Twilight, but I didn't mean that in a good way."

Twilight gave Spike a questioning look "What do you mean? You said that I have her attention."

Spike snorted "Yeah, as in you publicly embarrassed her and caused rumors about her to spread throughout Ponyville."

Twilight glared at him "It wasn't my fault. That lousy stallion tried to nab my marefriend. He was lucky that I was nice enough to not turn him into an orange!"

Spike facepalmed "Rarity is not your marefriend." He muttered as an afterthought "And she never will be."

"What did you say?" Twilight asked venomously.

Spike stepped closer to Twilight "I said that she will never be your marefriend."

"Oh yeah? And you think that she could ever be your marefriend?" Twilight angrily replied.

"Yeah, I do!" Spike yelled. "She doesn't love you that way, and I'm pretty sure she doesn't even want to see you after what you did!"

"Ha!" Twilight grinned maliciously "Why would she ever want a baby dragon! You've never had a chance with her, and there's not a chance that you ever will!" Twilight shouted, her vision making everything have a pinkish tint. She felt so angry after hearing Spike. Her anger drained away when she looked down at Spike, ready to let loose another insult. Spike's face was defiant and angry, but there were tears running down his face. Everything looked normal again and Twilight held her hoof to her mouth. What did I just do!?

"Spike, I'm sor-" Spike interrupted her.

"I don't want to hear it." Spike frowned, wiping his eyes. "I'm going to sleep." He stated before walking upstairs, grabbing his bed and placing it in the living room.

"But Spike I'm trying to te-" Twilight tried yet again to apologize.

"Just stop." Spike interjected before lying down on his bed and feigning sleep.

"Fine then!" Twilight snapped "I won't apologize!" She stormed upstairs and climbed into her own bed. He's wrong. Twilight thought to herself. I'll show him that I can get Rarity to be my marefriend. She was drifting off to sleep, as an idea came to her.


***


Once Rarity was inside the Carousel Boutique, she flopped as dignified as one could flop onto her couch and enjoyed the silence. She was comfortable enough to fall asleep when she heard the door open and Sweetie Belle shout "I'm home!"

"How was school?" Rarity sleepily mumbled.

Sweetie Belle trotted into the living room with a small frown. "It was okay, I guess." She glanced around nervously "Until I heard these rumors, and Scootaloo asked Miss Rainbow Dash about them." She gave Rarity a queasy look. "She started explaining this stuff to us, and I think I may be scarred for life."

"Ugh. Rainbow Dash is never going to hear the end of this." Rarity grumbled, completely sapped of energy. "Stop asking her questions." Rarity mumbled before falling asleep.

Sweetie Belle raised an eyebrow at her sister. Once Sweetie Belle was sure that her sister was asleep, she opened up her backpack and took out a book she was all too familiar with.

"Now, let's see if I can fix this..." She whispered aloud as she ran towards her room.
> Cutie Mark Potion Brewers?
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sweetie Belle began trotting to school. Even though she was early, Sweetie wanted to get to there before class so she could tell her friends about what happened. Sweetie Belle didn't really know what to do about it. Sure she felt a little bit guilty, but what could she do? 

Sweetie Belle stopped at the front of the school and looked around for one of her friends. She spotted Applebloom and ran towards her.

"Hey! Applebloom!" Sweetie said as she came to a halt in front of her friend.

"Oh, hiya Sweetie Belle!" Applebloom smiled "Sorry Ah couldn't come over yesterday, Applejack had a whole list a' chores for me ta do."

"Well, It was probably better that you didn't get to come over. Something bad happened, and Rarity almost had a nervous breakdown." Sweetie Belle said.

Applebloom sighed "What did ya do tah her dresses?"

Sweetie frowned "What? I didn't do anything to any of her dresses!"

Applebloom raised an eyebrow "So...did yah set the kitchen on fire?"

Sweetie Belle shook her head "No. I didn't set anything on fire!" Sweetie was starting to get annoyed.

Applebloom shrugged "So what did ya do"

Sweetie Belle sighed in frustration "Why is it that every time something bad happens, everypony always thinks that it's my fault!"

Applebloom looked unconvinced "So, yer saying it wasn't yer fault?"

Sweetie Belle blushed "Well..." she trailed off.

Applebloom smirked "Ah knew it."

Sweetie Belle glared at her "Oh yeah! Well it's your fault too!"

Applebloom stared at her confused "What do yah mean? Ah haven't done anything."

Before Sweetie Belle could explain, she was interrupted by somepony saying "What's up Sweetie Belle, Applebloom."

She glanced back at Scootaloo who was getting off of her scooter "Hey, Scoots."

Scootaloo parked her scooter and stepped over to her fellow crusaders "Did I miss anything?"

Applebloom nodded "Yeah, Sweetie gave her sister a nervous breakdown."

"No!" Sweetie said flustered "We all did!"

All she got was questioning looks on her friends faces "Remember when we made love poison?" She started.

Scootaloo nodded "I wish I could forget."

Applebloom gave a small yuck "Yea, Ah'm glad that we never have to go through that again."

"Yes we do." Sweetie Belle deadpanned.


***


Sweetie Belle had finished telling her friends about what happened, and none of them knew what to do. Scootaloo doesn't want to do anything about it, and Applebloom thinks we'll just make things worse.

Her focus was on how to fix things, and not on what Cheerilee was teaching. Why am I feeling so guilty about this anyways? It's not like I meant to do it.

The whole day flew by in a blur for Sweetie Belle. In no time at all it was recess.

"Okay, class. go have fun." Cheerilee said erasing the board.

Sweetie Belle blinked, and shook her head "Recess already?" she muttered, following her fellow classmates outside.

Sweetie Belle was walking with Scootaloo and Applebloom over to the swings when she said her idea.

"I think I figured out what we need to do to fix this whole mess." Sweetie Belle stated as she got onto one of the swings.

"What are ya talking about?" Applebloom asked nervously.

Sweetie Belle sighed "Well, I think the only way to fix everything, is to make a cure."

Scootaloo frowned "C'mon Sweetie, lay off it already. They'll get somepony to help make Twilight better."

Sweetie Belle shook her head "We made the potion, we need to do this! I'm feeling guilty about this, and you two played just as much of a part in this as I did!"

Scootaloo snorted "Yeah right. We didn't poison Twilight." She poked Sweetie Belle "That's on you."

Sweetie Belle shook her head "Will you help or not?" Sweetie said frustrated.

After a few moments of silence Applebloom relented "Fine. Ah'll help, but don't say Ah didn't warn ya."

Scootaloo flopped onto the ground "Really! We have to waste a perfect afternoon for crusading, cooking a potion!?"

Applebloom raised an eyebrow "Yah don't cook a potion."

Scootaloo shook her head "Yeah, you do."

A back and forth of increasingly angry yuh huh and nuh uhs were said between Applebloom and Scootaloo before Sweetie Belle interrupted them.

Sweetie smiled "I knew you girls would help!" She grabbed them both into a hug.

Scootaloo rolled her eyes "Enough of this sappy stuff, It's recess, we should be doing something not vomit inducing."

Sweetie Belle and Applebloom chuckled, and let go of Scootaloo.


***


A bell resounded through the classroom full of dazed and sleepy children. In a few seconds, the previously tired atmosphere of the classroom was replaced with all the children running towards the door in an energetic frenzy.

"Remember class, you all need to study for tomorrows test." Cheerilee said to the fleeing colts and fillies.

Her warning, however, fell on deaf ears as all the students were gone.

Cheerilee shook her head, but she couldn't help but have a small grin.

The Crusaders were well on their way to the clubhouse, when Scootaloo realized a glaring problem in their plan.

"How are we gonna make a cure?" Scootaloo asked "We don't even have any supplies." She grinned smugly. Ha! Now we don't have to do this stupid thing.

Sweetie Belle shrugged "How about I get that book we used when we made the love poison." She smiled "And by tomorrow we'll know what to do."

"So...we can do something else right now?" Scootaloo asked hopefully.

Sweetie Belle nodded "Sure. Got any ideas Applebloom?"

Before Applebloom could answer, she was interrupted by a rainbow blur that almost crashed into her. Applebloom jumped as Rainbow Dash landed.

"Hiya kids." Rainbow Dash said with a smirk.

"Hi Rainbow Dash!" Scootaloo exclaimed pushing Sweetie Belle out of the way so that she could get closer to her idol.

Dash looked at them all "I gotta jet, but I wanted to ask you something Sweetie Belle."

Sweetie Belle raised an eyebrow "Me? About what?"

Rainbow Dash smiled "Like you don't know. Everypony in Ponyville's heard about how your sister and Twilight are dating."

Sweetie Belle gulped "Really? Everpony is talking about it huh." She and the crusaders shared a look "I kind of played a hoof in that."

"You set them up?" Rainbow Dash asked.

Sweetie Belle laughed nervously "I guess you could say that."

"Anyways, I wanted to know if you knew if Rarity had plans tonight. If you see Twilight, could you tell her too? The girls and I want to surprise them and stuff."

Sweetie Belle tapped her chin with her hoof "Well I could ask Rarity, but I don't  know where Twilight is. I saw her last night but-"

Rainbow Dash held up her hooves "Wait a sec. Last night?" 

Sweetie Belle nodded "Yeah, Twilight slept over." 

Rainbow Dash laughed "Slept over, huh? Rarity's never going to hear the end of this."

Applebloom and Sweetie Belle looked at Rainbow Dash questioningly. Scootaloo, however, was painfully aware of what Dash was insinuating.

"What's so funny about sleepovers?" Applebloom asked questioningly.

Rainbow Dash looked at them "You know what I mean...right?" She took there expressions as an answer "Geez, nopony's told you about the birds and the bee's?"

Applebloom rolled her eyes "Ah know what birds and bee's are." 

"Not like that." Rainbow Dash walked closer to them "You girls are old enough, you'll find out about this stuff sooner or later." She sat down "When two ponies love each other, or if they're bored they..."


***


"See ya kiddos" Rainbow Dash shouted behind her as she flew off towards Ponyville.

The three fillies didn't say anything. They just stared ahead for a few moments, before each shook their heads.

Sweetie Belle's face was pale "I...didn't need to know that."

Applebloom shushed her "No. Don't say anything. We will never speak of this again!"

"But what do you think she meant by-" Scootaloo began to ask. 

Applebloom swiftly turned around "Never!." 

Sweetie Belle sighed "That horrible explanation aside, I'll try and find that book." She started to trot back into Ponyville.

Applebloom shouted after her "Why are ya leaving now? Can't this wait a little bit?"

Sweetie Belle shook her head "I can't leave my sister alone with that love crazed pony, I know what could happen!" Applebloom and Scootaloo shared a look as Sweetie Belle left.

"Ah don't blame her." Was all that Applebloom said as she and Scootaloo headed towards Sweet Apple Acres. Scootaloo had to agree.

> The Dream
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rarity looked up to the night sky as she stood beside Twilight at the edge of the Whitetail Woods. "It's a beautiful night, isn't it?" She said to Twilight as she continued to stare at the stars. After a few minutes of admiring the night, Rarity looked back at Twilight to find her looking at her.

"Not as beautiful as you." Twilight stated, causing Rarity to blush lightly.

"Oh, you don't mean that." Rarity said dismissing the compliment.

Twilight shook her head "Of course I mean that!" Twilight grinned stepping closer to Rarity. "Nothing compares to you."

Rarity gulped "Twilight, you're a little close." Twilight's face was inches away from her own, and Rarity felt her heartbeat speed up a little when she looked in the unicorns pretty purple eyes.

Twilight blushed, backing up slightly "Oh, sorr-" she was interrupted as Rarity sprang forward and planted her lips on Twilight's. She leaned into the kiss, enjoying the feeling of Twilight's surprising soft lips pressing against her own.


***


Rarity sat up suddenly on the couch, breathing heavily. She looked around the living room, relived to find that she was alone. Just a dream...Rarity thought. Rarity was surprised to find that that thought made her feel a little disappointed.

Pull yourself together! Rarity thought getting off of the couch. Her little nap had gone on longer than she planned, and it was growing dark outside. She trotted into her kitchen, hoping that a glass of water would help clear her head.

She frowned, taking a sip of the water. What did that dream mean? It doesn't mean anything, Rarity tried to tell herself. But, then why did I enjoy it when I kissed her soft- Rarity turned on the sink and quickly splashed ice cold water onto her face.

Rarity felt her head clear a little as the water hit her face. She sat down at the kitchen table. By now the sun had completely set, and the moon was rising in the sky. Much to Rarity's annoyance, she couldn't get the dream out of her head.

I...couldn't actually like her that way, could I? Rarity wasn't able to make sense of it. She never felt that way about Twilight before, but now she felt...something. You don't actually feel anything! Rarity told herself, you're just a little rattled by that weird dream.

Before she could continue analyzing her dream, somepony knocked on the door. Rarity was snapped out of her thinking, and for a moment thought that she had imagined the knock. But after a moment of quiet, another louder knock came.

Rarity got up and trotted to the door. Who would come here at this hour? She opened the door to find a grinning Rainbow Dash.

"Do you know how late it is Rainbow Dash?" Rarity asked raising an eyebrow, beginning to feel nervous.There's no way that she's here because of Twilight, it only happened a few hours ago.

"Hello to you too." Rainbow Dash said with a smile. She winked, nudging Rarity. "Anyways, I've been hearing some interesting things about you and Twilight."

Rarity sighed, I had a few hours of rest at least. "I take it that this has spread through Ponyville?" She said more calmly than she felt.

Rainbow Dash nodded, laughing quietly "Yeah, apparently Twilight freaked out, which isn't new." She managed to contain her laughter. "But why she freaked out is the best part!"

Rarity groaned "Yes, she did have a little episode, but it isn't really her fault."  Rarity frowned "There's something wrong with Twilight."

Rainbow Dash nodded "I know what you mean, she can be pretty crazy sometimes."

Rarity facehooved "No, I mean she's been poisoned."

Rainbow Dash stopped smiling "Poisoned? Who would-" Her mind returned to her conversation with Sweetie Belle earlier "I'm going to guess that it had something to do with the Cutie Mark Crusaders. Am I right?"

Rarity nodded "Yes, although it was mainly Sweetie Belle." She glanced towards the ceiling "But we've gotten through most of it."

"Well, what happened that was so bad?" Rainbow Dash asked "Er, except for the whole thing where Twi went insane in the market...again. Oh, and the poison part."

Rarity motioned for her to come in the boutique "It's a long story, sit down and I'll tell you what happened."


***


Rainbow Dash was hovering around the room while Rarity finished up her story. Dash had to admit that no matter how funny the whole thing was, it was a little worrying that Twilight had drank poison.

"And then I left the library." Rarity said finishing recounting her chaotic day.

Rainbow Dash smirked "It's official, Sweetie Belle is awesome! I mean, I couldn't even have pulled off a better prank...well I probably could. I mean I am Rainbow Dash."

"But it's not funny!" Rarity exclaimed, at her wits end. She sighed dramatically, falling back onto her couch.

Rainbow Dash snorted "Well maybe not to you."

Rarity ignored her and continued "All of Ponyville must believe that Twilight and I are in love! I'll never be able to show my face outside ever again because of what she said! I was so humiliated, I think she traumatized that poor stallion!" Rainbow Dash flew up to the hysterical unicorn and lightly shook her.

"Rarity!" She shouted, causing Rarity to stop her rant "I know you're upset, but please stop acting crazy!"

Rarity gave a small ahem "Oh...sorry about that." She blushed lightly "I've been holding that in for a while." I really need to find a way to fix all of this before I start pulling my mane out in frustration!

Rainbow Dash nodded "Don't worry about it, I'll just tell anypony that asks that you two have no feelings for each other."

Rarity smiled "Thank you Rainbow Dash. The rumors will have probably changed into something much worse by now, and I could use all the help I can get."

Rainbow Dash chuckled "I heard that Twilight threatened to turn the guy into a pineapple."

Rarity half-laughed, half-sighed "It was an orange, actually."

Rainbow Dash flew up into the air and pointed towards the door. "Well, I should be leaving. The reason I came over was that Pinkie wanted to throw you girl's a congratulations party, or whatever." She landed in front of the door "I'll make sure and tell Pinkie that the parties off."

"That would have been quite awkward." Rarity smiled "Thanks for helping me out with this."

Rainbow Dash nodded "No problem. It's not like you actually have feelings for her. It's all a funny misunderstanding."

Rarity opened her mouth to reply, and her mind returned to her dream. "...No, no I don't." Rarity said dismissing her dream, because that's all it was; a dream. But there was a little bit of doubt, and it was infuriating.

"Okay, see ya tomorrow then." Rainbow Dash said as somepony banged against the door. She opened the door to find Spike with a few tears in his eyes, and a worried expression on his face.

"Spike? What are you doing here this late?" Rainbow Dash lost her grin, when she saw his expression, Rarity had gotten off of the couch and was walking up to them.

Spike frowned "S-somethings wrong with Twilight!" Rainbow Dash and Rarity shared a surprised and worried look before they both ran out of the boutique, and headed towards the library.
> Love Sick(er)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Twilight groaned, why can't I focus! She had picked up a book at random, and started reading. Twilight was sitting at her desk in her bedroom, and had lit a few candles so the dwindling light wouldn't be a problem. Unfortunately, she had been on the same page for almost ten minutes. Her fight with Spike was bothering her, and the more guilty she felt for hurting his feelings, the more angry she became.

Even though it was dark outside, she didn't feel like sleeping. By some miracle Twilight managed to take a short nap. She had dreamed about something...but she couldn't remember whatever it was about. It didn't even cross her mind to try and remember it, as her attention was fully focused on the emotions she was feeling. This odd mixture of anger, love, sadness, and happiness was making her a little sick.

"Ugh!" She exclaimed, throwing the book on her nearby bed. There's no use, she thought. I should probably try and apologize again for yelling. She stood up and started trotting towards the living room, but as she got to the bottom of the steps a wave of nausea hit her like a speeding Rainbow Dash.

Twilight stopped walking and saw the room around her begin to swim, but after a moment it was gone. Shaking her head, she rid herself of the rest of the nausea and frowned. What the hay was that? The only times where she felt anything remotely like that was when things would turn pink. Twilight frowned, doesn't matter. I'll deal with that later if it happens again.

She walked as softly as she could into the living room, and saw Spike asleep in his bed. He was snoring lightly, and had a half-eaten emerald in his left hand. Twilight felt a another pang of regret. But a part of her was still happy about yelling at him, and making him realize that Rarity would never like him that way.

Ugh, what is wrong with me today!? I know the potion is causing me to have mood swings, but come on! Twilight sighed, I just need to focus on apologizing to Spike. Twilight slowly poked the side of Spike's stomach until he stirred.

"Hey Spike." Twilight said, with an uneasy smile. If he doesn't yell at me for waking him up, I think this will work.

Spike yawned as he sat up in his bed "Huh? What was that?" He said, too sleepy to really pay much attention to anything. 

Twilight rolled her eyes "I wanted to say that I'm sorry for..." She trailed off as another dizzy spell hit her, and Twilight frowned as the room seemed to swim out of focus.

"Twi?" Spike said now in front of Twilight, wide awake "What's wrong?" His voice seemed to be far away, even though Spike was right in front of her. But when she looked straight at Spike, everything doubled and become blurry.

"How...are you doing that?" Twilight said with a half laugh, feeling herself fall over. The last thing Twilight saw before she blacked out was a very alarmed Spike.


***


Did I get hit with a piano or something? Twilight thought with a grimace. I haven't had a headache like this since Pinkie's last party. Twilight slowly opened her eyes and looked up at her white ceiling. Wait a minute! My ceilings aren't white! Before she could panic, Twilight could feel herself falling asleep again. What happened? I think I apologized to Spike...but then what? Twilight couldn't remember, and as she closed her eyes; she fell back asleep.


***


Twilight's eyes opened, and she sat up in her bed. She winced as she felt her headache intensify. After shutting her eyes for a minute, the pain went away and she slowly opened her eyes again. It looked like she was in the Ponyville hospital. What happened to me? She asked herself again and just like the other times she couldn't remember. Twilight looked around, hoping to see somepony but she was alone in the room.

Twilight tried to get off of the bed, but stopped when somepony walked through the door. 

"Ah, good to see that you're awake, Twilight Sparkle." The stallion said "But, I would recommend that you lie back down."

"What happened to me?" Twilight asked worriedly "How long was I asleep, Doctor...?"

"Doctor Surge, if you will." He said with a smile "And to your question, you've only been here for about sixteen hours. Three of your friends brought you here after you fainted."

He frowned slightly "Two are actually in the lobby, after we made them leave the room they refused to leave the hospital."

"Could you send them in?" Twilight asked hopefully.

The doctor nodded "For a little while, but we would like to take some tests soon. We're not entirely sure what happened, but we do understand the root of this is an aged potion."

"Yeah, that thing has a caused a lot to happen." Twilight said with a grin in spite of her dull headache, remembering the small kiss Rarity had given her.

"Okay, I'll send them right in." Doctor Surge said closing the door. Twilight sat in silence looking around the hospital room, until a muffled shout could be heard from the hallway. Was that...Spike? Twilight thought before the door was thrown open and Rarity and Spike rushed inside.

"Rarity! Spike!" Twilight said happily, as Spike's eyes lit up.

"Twilight! I never thought you'd wake up!" He said running to the bed, and pulling Twilight into a death grip bear hug.

"I'm fine!" Twilight said laughing as she returned the hug. She looked over to Rarity and was shocked to see her mane was slightly disheveled; it looked like she had been crying.

"What's wrong Rarity?" Twilight asked worriedly as Rarity trotted over to bed and pulled Twilight into a hug.

"I was so worried! When Spike brought Rainbow and I to the library, you were on the ground and you wouldn't w-wake up. So, we brought you here and the doctors wouldn't let us see you. And I'm just glad you're fine." Rarity stammered out.

Twilight blushed deeply, trying to hug both of them "Well, I feel good. Except for this headache." Rarity let go of Twilight.

"Would you like us to leave, for now at least." Rarity said with a smile "I wouldn't want to make you feel worse."

"Well, I'd feel a lot better if I got another hug." Twilight said causing them all to laugh, even if Rarity's was a little forced. A small ahem caused them to turn towards the doorway.

"You both may see Twilight after we take some tests. I'll get you both once we're done.." Doctor Surge said.

Spike looked up at Twilight, and sighed "Fine. But I'll be back as soon as I can!" He looked up to Twilight, and sighed before walking out of the room.

Rarity trotted after him, turning back to give Twilight a smile. "Don't worry darling we'll be back as soon as we can!"

Twilight beamed, blushing lightly "Pinkie Promise?" Rarity rolled her eyes, and then made the signs. The doctor shut the door after she left, and turned to Twilight who was blushing madly; with a large smile.

> Side Effects
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rarity was pacing back and forth nervously in the hospitals waiting room. After Spike had led Rainbow Dash and herself to Twilight, Dash decided to fly her to the hospital. Rarity and Spike ran to the hospital in silence, and by the time they had gotten there, a doctor was seeing Twilight.

It was around midnight, and to the receptionist’s annoyance; Spike and Rarity weren't budging. Rainbow Dash had gone home almost an hour ago, and promised to inform the other girls and bring them to the hospital in the afternoon. She wanted to bring them as soon as she dropped Twilight off, but the doctor had said that she was doing fine; she was sleeping, and probably wouldn't wake up until lunchtime.

"Listen." The receptionist said, frowning, "It's very late, and you two should really be going. We'll notify you if anything changes with your friend."

Rarity shook her head vehemently "We will not leave! We need to stay here so the second she's awake, we'll be there."

"Yeah." Spike said, crossing his arms "We aren't leaving,"

"Fine." the receptionist sighed, "If you want to stay, then stay!" She stepped out from behind the desk, and trotted through a door at the end of the hallway.

Rarity sighed, and sat on one of the chairs next to Spike. Oh, I hope nothings wrong. She closed her eyes, and yawned.

Spike frowned, looking at Rarity. Sure he was scared and worried for Twilight, but Rarity seemed really shaken up by her collapse. She can't actually like her that way...can she? He wasn't too proud to find that the thought brought a little anger with it. For Celestia's sake! Twi's in the hospital, and you're jealous!?

"Rarity." Spike said quietly, causing her to raise her head "What's wrong?"

"What's wrong!?" Rarity exclaimed incredulously. "Twilight's in the hospital because of a love poison!" She took a few deep breaths to calm down. "Why wouldn't I be worried?"

Spike shook his head "Hey, I'm worried too! Twilight's pretty much my sister, and I'm scared that something is wrong with her. But, you're more cut up about this than I am." He held up a claw to stop Rarity from arguing.

"Listen, even Rainbow Dash went home, and she's the Element of Loyalty! She knows that she did all she could, and that tomorrow she could come back." He looked her in the eyes "So, why aren't you home? I get that Twilight's one of your best friends and all that, but you're acting really weird." He finished.

Rarity frowned "Well...I'm not sure." She sighed, "I just can't leave..." She trailed off hoping that Spike would stop questioning her. In truth, until Spike asked her why she hadn't left, it never crossed her mind to leave. After finding Twilight on the ground in the library she was seized with dread; initially thinking that she was dead. But before she could freak out, Rarity noticed Twilight breathing while Rainbow Dash picked her up. She gave a large sigh of relief, but if anything she was even more worried.

Once they all had gotten into the hospital the only thing on her mind was Twilight, and even after the nurse said she was okay Rarity still felt awful. Rarity looked at Spike who had a worried expression much like her own. This is a mess. This can't go on any longer, what if next time she's really hurt? Rarity didn't even want to think about it, I need to find Zecora tomorrow and find out if she's made any progress.

Yawning, Rarity closed her eyes. It had been an incredibly long day, and even with her anxiety she felt herself on the brink of sleep. She glanced over to Spike to try and answer his question, but he was curled up on the chair, asleep.


***


Rarity and Spike left the hospital room and returned to the waiting room, feeling considerably better that Twilight wasn't seriously hurt. Spike sat down on one of the chairs and smiled. "Well, it's good that Twilight's feeling better."

Rarity nodded "Yes, it's a miracle that nothing seems to be wrong." But something might be; who knows what will happen next time she has an episode like that. Rarity frowned, realizing that the poison had turned from being incredibly annoying to potentially deadly

"Spike?" Rarity said, "Would you mind going to Zecora's and asking her to come to the hospital? Twilight and I went to talk with her yesterday, and I really hope that she found out how to cure Twilight."

Spike nodded "Okay, but I'll be back as soon as I can." He started running towards the door, eager to find Zecora and get back in case they could see Twilight. Rarity watched him leave and then turned to clock, waiting for the doctor to return.


15 minutes later...


Rarity had almost fallen asleep in the quiet waiting room, but when she saw the doctor trottingtowards her she quickly sat up.

"Is everything alright?" Rarity nervously asked.

"Yes, everything seems to be fine." He continued "She did have another dizzy spell, but it passed quickly. The thing is, we can't keep her at the hospital. She seems to be doing fine without any immediate medical attention, and she doesn't need to stay here."

Rarity frowned "But what if something else happens to her!? Shouldn't she stay for at least another day or two?"

Doctor Surge smiled "Rarity, I understand that you're worried about your friend, but it looks like she's doing a lot better." He gave a small sigh, "I know that this must be a scary experience, but there's really not much else we can do as of right now."

Rarity nodded, a little embarrassed "Yes, of course doctor."

Doctor Surge nodded "But I would recommend that somepony stay with her for a few days; just in case another collapse occurs. Or there's the chance that the poison might have another effect."

"Well...I suppose I could stay with her. Or at the very least check up on her." Rarity started, "I'm sure that Spike won't mind some help." I finished my latest dress orders a few days ago, and Twilight's well being is much more important than a few orders anyways.

The doctor gave another small nod. "Okay, she'll be right out." He turned around to leave, and paused, "Oh, we gave her some medication to help with the dizziness. She might be a little disoriented for a couple of hours."

Rarity sat back down and looked around the empty waiting room, glad that everything seemed to be getting better. Although she  couldn't help but think that she was forgetting something. Where's Spike? Rarity looked at the clock hanging above the receptionist's desk and frowned. I wonder if I should go looking for him...

Just as she was debating whether or not to go to Zecora's before Twilight was released from the hospital, Spike ran into the hospital; sweaty and gasping for breath.

"I...ran all the way...did I miss anything?" Spike asked between gulps of air. Rarity raised an eyebrow at the young dragon, as she trotted over to him.

"Spike, why did you sprint all the way here?" She frowned as he raised his hand, and she saw the paper that he was holding.



Dear Rarity,
There has been trouble at my homeland, and I must return on the double. I shall complete the cure after my retreat, when I return in a week.



"This is not good..." Rarity muttered, trying to think of another way to help find a cure for Twilight. But before she could think of anything, she was tackled to the ground.

"The doctor told me that you're staying with me!" Twilight squealed excitedly, hugging Rarity.

Rarity nodded, blushing lightly "Yes, I wouldn't want you to have another episode without me there to help you. Although, I won't be staying with you the whole time." She looked at Spike and wasn't surprised to find that he had a small frown. But the frown turned into a large grin as he ran up to Twilight

"Don't ever scare me like that again!" Spike said, hugging Twilight.

Twilight laughed "Don't worry, I don't plan on it happening anytime soon."

After almost ten seconds of a slightly awkward group hug, Spike broke away from the two ponies and smiled. Twilight's feeling better, so that's awesome. Unfortunately, she wasn't completely fine, and nothing made  this more apparent than how she was staring at Rarity. "Okay, we should probably go home. I think everypony's been pretty worried about you." Spike glanced in Rarity's direction, some a little more than others.

Rarity nodded "Yes, I still can't believe all the trouble Sweetie Belle has-" Rarity's eyes grew wide "I FORGOT ABOUT SWEETIE BELLE!" Rarity exclaimed, before sprinting out of the hospital.

Twilight and Spike stood silent for a few moments before Twilight shook her head "If she can't even take proper care of her sister, how does Rarity expect me to leave her alone with our future foals?" Twilight asked Spike, trotting at much slower pace than Rarity's towards the door.

Spike groaned, this is going to get really old really quickly. Then another thought occurred to him "Wait a sec, how the hay would that work?" He scratched his head in confusion as Twilight turned to him.

"Oh, well there are a whole lot of ways that we could go about it! First there's-" Twilight's all too eager explanation was interrupted as Spike vehemently shook his head.

"Nope, changed my mind. I do not need to hear this." Spike grimaced "Your regular explanation of the 'birds and the bees' was incredibly thorough, and I really don't need an explanation for whatever the hay this is."

Twilight shrugged as she and Spike left the hospital and headed towards the library.
> Cutie Mark Potion Testers...Yay?
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Remind me again why ya think Zecora's just gonna let us borrow potion supplies?" Apple Bloom asked Sweetie Belle as they trotted towards the Everfree Forest. "Do ya remember how many times we've messed up potions? Cause Ah'm sure she does."

"Well, I already got the book from the library." Sweetie replied "So now we just need a few ingredients for the cure! If she says no, then I guess we'll have to look for the stuff ourselves."

Apple Bloom frowned "Still, Ah don't know about this..." She trailed off as they entered the forest. Although the path to Zecora's was relatively clear of underbrush and there was enough light filtering through the canopy of dark leaves overhead to make sure everything was easily seen, it was still unnerving. There was a reason ponies didn't go into the forest, and Apple Bloom had heard plenty of tales about what happened to most ponies who had dared to enter the Everfree Forest, and needless to say they almost all ended without a pony coming out.

Apple Bloom wasn't scared though! She glanced at monster shaped shadows thrown by twisted branches, and cringed every time the sound of twigs being crushed underhoof didn't come from the beaten path. Nope, not scared even a bit.

Sweetie Belle wasn't paying attention to her surroundings, and was more focused on the ingredients that they would need. Mistakes were not an option, so Sweetie had made sure to bring the book along with her to Zecora's to make sure that they wouldn't grab something poisonous by accident and make something that would make things much worse.

"Where's Scootaloo?" Sweetie Belle asked as they neared the cottage. "I thought she said that she'd help us?"

Apple Bloom shrugged "Ah don't know, maybe she's just caught up with something."

Sweetie Belle smirked "Fine, but she's going to have to been the one we test the potion on."

Apple Bloom's eyes widened "Hey, you never said anything about that!"

Sweetie Belle turned around to face her friend "Listen, we need to know that it worked or else it'll just be a big waste of time."

"Well, why don't ya drink it?" Apple Bloom frowned "It's yer fault."

Sweetie Belle glared daggers at her reluctant friend "No, it's all of our faults for making the stupid thing, and so far I'm the only one who has been getting into trouble for it!" Sweetie Belle sighed "C'mon, can you please help me with this?"

Appleboom sighed "Fine, but Ah still think this is stupid." The rest of the walk to Zecora's was in silence, and before too long, they reached the small cottage. Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom trotted up to the front door and knocked loudly. After a few minutes, nopony came to answer the door, so Apple Bloom turned towards Sweetie Belle.

"Maybe she's not home?' Apple Bloom offered, hoping it was true and they could leave.

"I guess, but-" Sweetie Belle's eyes caught sight of a small piece of paper stuck to the door. Sweetie Belle took the piece of paper of the door and frowned.

"Apparently Zeroca's gone back home. Wherever that is." She handed the note to Apple Bloom, groaning "C'mon! We need these potion supplies."

"Well, it's not like we can just take them." Apple Bloom placed the note on the doorstop where anypony else who happened to wander by would see. "Ah guess we have to go do something else, like crusading. Darn, Ah was looking forwards to making more potions too!" She continued sarcastically.

Sweetie Belle frowned, looking at the door "You know, we could always borrow the supplies." She sighed at Apple Bloom's shocked expression.

"C'mon Apple Bloom, Twilight needs to be cured! It's not like we're doing anything too bad." Sweetie Belle proceeded.

Apple Bloom shook her head "Sweetie, are ya crazy? Stealing is bad no matter what it's for!"

Sweetie Belle raised an eyebrow "What about the Cutie Pox fiasco?"

Apple Bloom glared "Hey, that was different."

Sweetie Belle rolled her eyes "Of course it was. Listen, I don't like it any more than you do. But if we can find a cure for Twilight then I'm sure Zecora wouldn't mind. Please, I promise that we'll bring everything back."

Apple Bloom stared at her friend for a few moments before relenting "Fine, Ah guess it is for something good."

Sweetie Belle's face lit up "Great! The sooner this is straightened out, the better."

"Alright, how do ya suppose we get inside?" Apple Bloom said looking at the cottage.

Sweetie Belle raised an eyebrow, "Uh, maybe the front door?" She pushed the door open.

"...Why isn't it locked?" Apple Bloom asked quizzically.

"What pony would be crazy enough to go into the Everfree Forest to break into Zecora's house? Nopony, that's who." Sweetie Belle said trotting into the house.

"Nopony except us." Apple Bloom muttered following Sweetie Belle.


***


Scootaloo was nowhere to be found as Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom carried the various plants and ingredients they had "borrowed" from Zecora inside the clubhouse. Taking a cauldron would've been too heavy, so they had to settle for a pot that Granny Smith rarely used for cooking.

Apple Bloom dumped everything she was carrying into the pot while Sweetie Belle took out the book "Alright, first we need some crushed rose petals."

Sweetie Belle crushed the flower by stomping on it while it was in the pot and read the next step "Okay, now we need to add water and some flower called...Cordis?" Sweetie Belle looked at the picture. It was a small flower with white petals that changed to a deep red color near the tips of the petals.

Apple Bloom picked it up and dropped it into the pot "Are ya sure this is right?"

"Yeah, after this we need to mix it all and add this green powdery stuff." Sweetie Belle held up a small pouch with her magic "This looks like what the book says, but I've never seen this stuff before."

Apple Bloom shrugged "Don't ask me."

Sweetie Belle dumped the punch into the pot, causing the mixture to turn a deep green color. Sweetie Belle started to mix the ingredients together and poured it into a cup. Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom looked at the mixture.

"That's disgusting." Apple Bloom grimaced "How are we gonna get Scoots to drink that? It looks like vomit! "

Sweetie Belle waved her hoof "That's the easy part, first we need her to drink the love poison."

Apple Bloom nodded "Yeah, Ah'm just hoping this will work."

"Why wouldn't it?" Sweetie Belle asked opening the book to the love poison page "We went by the book, and it's not that hard."

Apple Bloom shrugged "Ah don't know, it was almost too easy. Aren't potions supposed to be hard to make?"

Sweetie Belle smiled "Maybe we're just good at making potions?"

Apple Bloom fell into a fit of laughter "T-that's a good one Sweetie!" Apple Bloom managed to say before dissolving into laughter once again.

"Just be quiet and help me finish this." Sweetie Belle sighed, beginning to remake the potion that had caused the whole mess.


***


Scootaloo frowned as she ran towards the tree house. She was only a few minutes, give or take an hour, late. C'mon Mom, why did you have to take my scooter! I only broke half of the window! Shaking her head, Scootaloo climbed up the tree, pushing her failed stunt out of her mind. She burst into the tree house to come face to face with her friends grinning...rather creepily, if Scootaloo was being honest.

"Uh, hey girls." Scootaloo said, laughing nervously "I'm a little late, but if you want to still make that potion we can still do it!"

"Sounds good, but first wouldn't you like some juice? You look a little out of breath." Sweetie Belle said, continuing to smile widely.

Scootaloo looked at the light pink liquid "What kind of juice is that?"

"Strawberry!" Sweetie Belle shouted.

"Apple!" Apple Bloom shouted.

They looked at each other, "Apple!" Sweetie Belle said as Apple Bloom nodded "Yeah, strawberry!"

Scootaloo raised an eyebrow as Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle glared at each other "Oookay then." Scootaloo glanced at the glass one last time before shrugging. After all, it was a long run to the tree house, and she was pretty thirsty. Scootaloo picked up the glass and downed half the drink in one go.

Scootaloo's eyes widened "Hey, this stuff is pretty goo-" She grew rigid as her eyes started to flash violet.

Apple Bloom turned to Sweetie Belle. "What happens now?"

Sweetie Belle giggled "Well, first we need her to fall for somepony. And then we're going to see if the potion will cure her."

Apple Bloom nodded "Yeah, let's just put a picture of Rainbow Dash in front of her."

Sweetie Belle shook her head "That won't work."

Apple Bloom tapped her chin thoughtfully "Yeah...Ah guess it would have to be a real pony."

Sweetie Belle shrugged "Oh, I don't know about that. I just figure even if it did work we couldn't tell the difference." She nudged Apple Bloom "Actually you should do it."

"What!?" Apple Bloom yelled "NO!"

Sweetie beamed, and said "Really, you will?" 

"Hey, Scootaloo! Over here!" Sweetie Belle said in a sing song voice while diving under a nearby table.

Scootaloo turned towards Sweetie's voice, and saw a very distressed looking Apple Bloom "Apple Bloom...what's up?"

"Uh, nothing." Apple Bloom nervously replied, slowly backing away from Scootaloo.

Scootaloo grinned, her eyes faintly flashing purple "Well if you aren't doing anything, what would you say to coming with me to Sugarcube Corner for some cupcakes?" She grinned, walking closer to Apple Bloom.

Apple Bloom frowned "Um, Ah have some chores...and stuff."

Sweetie Belle picked up the bottle in her magic and stepped in between her two friends "Sure, she'd love to! But first why don't you try this drink Apple Bloom and I made?"

Scootaloo beamed "Really!? You'll come?"

Sweetie Belle nodded, unable to restrain a small smile at Apple Bloom's angry expression "Yeah, but first you need to drink this!"

Scootaloo shrugged "If it gets me and AB to Sugarcube Corner sooner, then awesome." She looked at the cup for a few seconds before taking a few sips.

"Hey, this stuff is pretty good!" Scootaloo drank the rest of the cup. Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom waited quietly, hoping it worked. For a moment, Scootaloo's smile was replaced with a frown.

It worked! Sweetie Belle thought. Now after I apologize to Apple Bloom, and tell Scootaloo everything, we can go cure Twilight and Rarity won't be mad at-

"Whatever that is it has a nasty aftertaste." Scootaloo stuck her tongue out "Yuck. Oh well, I think a cupcake could help wash that horrible taste out of my mouth." She leaned closer to Apple Bloom, winking "Let's go Apple Bloom!"

Sweetie Belle's face fell "You mean it didn't work!"

Apple Bloom glared daggers at her "What gave you that idea!" She shouted sarcastically

Scootaloo looked between her fighting friends confusedly "Soo...are we gonna go, Apple Bloom?"

"QUIET!" Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle shouted at Scootaloo before continuing to argue.

"Ya said it would work!" Apple Bloom said "Why did Ah think it would work!?"

Sweetie Belle picked up the book "It's not my fault! We did everything the dumb book said to do!" She opened it to the page with the cure "Look we didn't skip a single step!"

Sweetie turned the page, and she found why it didn't work. They didn't make the potion, or completely, that is. The next page gave detailed instructions on preparing the ingredients they had used, and even some more ingredients.

Before she could say anything, Sweetie was shocked out of reprieve by her sisters voice.

"Sweetie Belle! Are you up there!" Sweetie heard Rarity shout from the base of the tree house.

"Yeah!" Sweetie Belle said, closing the book as Apple Bloom tried to look at the page.

"Well come down! We need to get home for supper!" Rarity said, a little impatiently.

Sweetie Belle gave a small embarrassed laugh "Heh, well...let's try again tomorrow?"

Apple Bloom sighed, "Fine, but yer gonna have to make this up to me!"

Sweetie Belle smiled, hugging Apple Bloom "Thanks AB, when this is all done you can pick the next Cutie Marks we go crusading for."

Apple Bloom smirked "Alright, that makes it up to me a little bit."

Sweetie Belle put the potion book back on the table and left the clubhouse. Apple Bloom sighed, picking up the book to see if it said anything.

"Apple Bloom, did I ever tell you that your almost as cool as Rainbow Dash?." Scootaloo said with a smirk leaning against the table, raising her eyebrows.

Apple Bloom gulped "Uh...you wanted to go to Sugarcube Corner, right?" She said hoping to distract the love sick filly.

Scootaloo stopped staring at Apple Bloom, and broke into a large grin "Awesome!" She grabbed Apple Bloom's hoof and started dragging her out of the clubhouse. Apple Bloom tried desperately to latch on to anything to prevent the awkward situation to come, but Scootaloo's grip was too strong.

Yep, Sweetie owes me big time! Appleboom thought.
> Research!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"So, Twi..." Spike started, looking sideways at her as they walked towards the library. "How are you feeling?"

Twilight shrugged "Fine, I guess. I'm not passing out, so that's good." She looked around the fairly vacant street; it seemed like just another typical day.

Spike groaned "Well, you're right about that. I'm going to take a nap." He yawned, as they came up to the front door of their home. "Staying up all night isn't all it's cracked up to be."

"Alright, Spike." Twilight gave him a small grin "I'll just be reading down here."

Spike looked at her smiling friend for a few more seconds, before shrugging "Okay, just don't do anything too crazy."

Twilight rolled her eyes "Yes mother."

Spike sighed, climbing up the steps and eagerly flopping onto his bed. I will never stay up that late again, he thought already half-asleep.

Twilight waited until she heard Spike reach their room, and waited a few minutes afterwards until light snoring could be heard.

"Spike...?" She tentatively called out and, when she received no response, smiled. I'll just be gone for a bit, Twilight thought walking to the door and quietly shutting it behind her. He won't even know I left.

Twilight looked around Ponyville; it looked like it was almost lunchtime judging from the sun. I have plenty of time. She started trotting towards the Carousel Boutique, a very large grin plastered on her face.

She was in an unusually happy mood for somepony who had just gotten out of the hospital, and that seemed weird. Twilight's thoughts started to drift away from Rarity, and to how she actually felt. The past few days had been so hectic, that she had little time to think of anything else except Rarity.

I was just put into the hospital, and I might've been very sick...and I really didn't care. Twilight frowned, beginning to think that this poison was starting to overstay it's welcome. The word poison should have tipped her off. Of course, I'll still be in love with Rarity if I get cured. I just won't have to deal with all this bad stuff! Twilight gave a small squeak of excitement as an idea came to her, and her excitement continued to grow as the Carousel Boutique came into view.

Yeah, I'll just have to get a cure! Then Rarity will know that I really do love her and it isn't some dumb potion! Twilight could barely contain her excitement at the plan and practically skipped to the front door of the boutique.

Twilight knocked loudly on the door, and started to hum as she waited. A few minutes later, Rarity flung open the door.

"Twilight!? You should be home in bed!" Rarity exclaimed, with a hint of worry.

Twilight shook her head "Don't worry, I'm perfectly fine." She walked past Rarity into her house. "So...how has your day been?"

Rarity just stared at Twilight "How do you think it was?" Twilight was looking absentmindedly around the room while Rarity stood in the doorway.

"Right." Twilight replied embarrassingly. C'mon, Twi! Don't screw this up! "So...you wanna come back with me to the library?" She pointed out the door.

Rarity sighed "Twilight, I don't think that would be such a good idea."

"Why not?" Twilight looked down "I just wanted to know if you could help me research..." She looked back into Rarity's eyes, her lips quivering. I am good at this, she thought as Rarity's stern expression softened.

Rarity frowned "Oh, you know I hate when you do that." She sighed, "Alright, research what exactly?"

"A cure." Twilight smiled, instantly brightening up "I was thinking, and it will be a whole easier to prove that I love you without this poison in me."

"Really!?" Rarity grinned, getting excited "Do you think we can do it?"

Twilight nodded vigorously "It can't be too hard, can it?"

Rarity mulled it over. On one hoof, she wanted a little break from the whole mess. But, at the same time, the thought of curing Twilight was too good to pass up.

"Alright, but please we are only going to research, understand?" Rarity said.

Twilight smirked "Fine, but maybe next time you visit we can-"

"I will tape your mouth shut if you try to finish that sentence." Rarity quickly interjected.

"Oh, you're into that kind of stuff, huh?!" Twilight giggled.

Rarity's right eye began to twitch "..." She looked at Twilight for a few seconds, before calmly walking out of the Boutique and heading towards the library.

Twilight squealed in excitement "YES! This is gonna be sooo fun!" Twilight skipped out of the boutique, beaming.

Rarity had to admit, she loved seeing Twilight this happy. Plus, her filly-like happiness was rather cute. Rarity shook her head, enough of that, let's get this over with. She won't be so cute coming on to you again! Rarity frowned, her mind had been all over the place since that stupid dream.

Let's just try to fix this, so that we can all can put it behind us...Rarity took a deep breath to help calm herself, and she started towards Twilight who had skipped farther ahead as she was thinking.


***


Spike was awoken from his nap by loud voices coming from downstairs. He tried to go back to sleep, but the excited talking was really hard to tune out. Ugh, why can't Twi and Rarity be quiet? He closed his eyes tightly, and rolled over in his bed. I need more sl-

"RARITY!" Spike exclaimed, eyes shooting open. He flung the covers off of himself, sprinting for the staircase. He almost tripped running down the stairs, but made it to the bottom unscathed. Once he reached the bottom, he was met with an interesting sight.

Twilight and Rarity were sitting next to each other on the couch. Each had a large pile of books on the floor near them, and were holding up a few with their magic and skimming through them.

"What are you two doing?" Spike asked curiously, in truth a little put off by Rarity's happy expression.

"Oh, hello Spike!" Rarity said with a grin directed at him "We were just looking up love potions and poisons."

Twilight nodded "Yeah, Rarity is a really good researcher." Twilight's smile widened while Spike's frown deepened as Rarity blushed at the compliment "We've learned quite a bit about the poison."

"Did you learn how to cure it?" Spike asked hopefully.

Rarity frowned, and shook her head "Apparently potions and poisons really change after a while. Love poison can change drastically, or even lose all of its affects over a period of time. We're not sure what variation Twilight's sick with."

Twilight levitated a small checklist over to Spike "But we're narrowing it down."

Spike looked over the list, noting the first few options, before putting the list back on the table "Listen, isn't there anypony else who can help find a cure? I'm sure you girls will be able to find a cure, but it might take you longer than somepony with actual experience with this stuff."

Twilight shrugged "Zecora isn't here, and I don't know anypony else who is a potions expert."

Spike sighed "Your right, I can't think of anypony else who would know that much about love...potions..." He trailed off, his eyes widening in excitement "Wait a second! We do!"

"Who?" Rarity and Twilight simultaneously asked.

Spike didn't answer, instead he picked up a piece of parchment and sprinted over to an inkwell on Twilight's desk. He hastily scribbled a short message, rolled up the scroll and gently breathed fire onto it.

"Princess Celestia?" Twilight frowned "She's incredibly smart, but I'm not sure if-"

Rarity interrupted "Did you just tell the princess about this whole mess!? She better not tell anypony!" Her thoughts were filled headlines. "New Princess of Equestria Drugged by Best Friend's Sister." That wouldn't be good for her image, or for Twilight after she snapped out of everything.

Spike shook his head "I did tell a princess, but not Celestia." He was about to explain further when, with a small pop, a scroll materialized out of thin air.

Spike opened it, and his eyes scanned the letter; his smile growing with every line "Awesome! She can come!" Spike punched the air in victory while Rarity and Twilight looked at each other, confused as ever.

Spike looked between them "Oh, right." He chuckled "I asked Cadence if she could help, after all she knows a ton about love!"

Rarity smiled "That's...actually a brilliant idea! Wait, I thought you could only send letters to Celestia?"

Spike nodded "I used to only be able to, but she thought it would be better if I could send messages through dragon fire to all of the princesses. Only for important matters of course!"

Twilight glared "Spike, you can't send frivolous letters to Cadence! She has a kingdom to take care of!"

Spike rolled his eyes "Of course. Even when your poisoned and all happy, you get mad at me for sending a letter. It can't have bothered her too much, she said she'll be here tomorrow."

"Tomorrow!?" Twilight shouted.

Rarity gave a sigh of relief "Thank Celestia."

Spike grinned "Yup, everything will finally be normal again." And now Twilight won't be in love, and Rarity can stop worrying about her...and I'll be able to ask her out. Spike smiled at the thought, he realized throughout this whole ordeal that Rarity could be snatched away at any time, and it was now or never to see if they could work.

Rarity put the book she was reading on the table, and got up from the couch "Well, I should be getting home now. After all, Cadence will be able to cure you tomorrow. Or at the very least help us make one."

"What!?" Twilight frowned and swooned on the couch, raising a hoof to her forehead "But you can't leave a sick mare home alone!"

Rarity chuckled "You've been fine for the past few hours, and Spike is right over there." she pointed at Spike who stood at the foot of the stairs. He cheerily waved.

"Pretty please with sprinkles on top?" Twilight puffed out her lip.

Rarity shook her head "Twilight, please stop."

Twilight groaned "Fine, but can I at the very, absolute least have a kiss?" To her surprise, Rarity immediately leaned forward and lightly kissed Twilight's cheek.

"Is that enough to tide you over?" Rarity asked blushing at what she had just done, and Twilight's awestruck expression.

"Rarity-" Spike started, annoyance creeping into his voice.

She quickly trotted over to him "It was only so she wouldn't throw a fit." she smiled, and slowly so did Spike. At least...mostly to stop her. Shut up me! Rarity mentally shouted at herself.

"Hey, Rarity?" Twilight meekly said.

Rarity turned around to come face to face with Twilight. Without hesitation, Twilight practically jumped forward and kissed Rarity on the lips. Rarity felt the soft touch of Twilight's lips against her own for a few seconds before she reeled backwards. She stared at her friend, cheeks aglow.

Before anypony could say anything, Rarity sprinted out of the library. Twilight opened her mouth to call out something when Spike beat her to it.

"What the heck!?" Spike exclaimed "Don't you understand she doesn't like you that way!? Are you trying to ruin your friendship." Spike growled. He turned away, and stomped out of the library to follow Rarity.

Twilight looked at the door, shocked. She sat down and remained quiet, confused at her conflicting feelings of guiltiness, regret, happiness, and...pride? Was she happy she kissed Rarity? Yes. Was she she happy she fled? No...but why did that matter, she kissed her!

Twilight felt flustered, all these thoughts and emotions were too much. She was beginning to feel sick. She sighed, and got up from the floor and slowly started walking to her room; struggling to make sense of all the conflicting feelings.

> Confrontation & Contemplation
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Twilight looked at herself in her bedroom mirror. It must've been around ten minutes since Rarity left, along with Spike. Her swirling emotions were so conflicted at this point, that even she couldn't tell what she was feeling. But the worst, the absolute worst thing was that one question kept plaguing her. Do I really love her?

Of course I do! Twilight thought, with less determination than she had in the previous days. The poison couldn't replicate feelings this meaningful! Twilight sighed, sitting on the floor. But isn't that what it's supposed to do? Replicate love flawlessly so that the afflicted could not tell it was fake? Twilight sighed, and got up from the ground.

She slowly trotted over to her window and looked out at Ponyville. She leaned her face against the cool glass, and looked for Spike or Rarity. They were nowhere in sight. They must be at the Carousel Boutique. Then, her thoughts returned in full force. Do I love her? Twilight felt like the answer was yes. How could it not be? Even just thinking of her caused her heart to speed up. But was it real, true love?

Twilight had learned from the books she and Rarity had been reading that love potions and poisons usually cloud judgment, so that the afflicted doesn't realize exactly why they love the pony, they just know they do love the pony. So, why do I love Rarity? The first thing that came to mind was her beauty, how her mane was always so perfect, how her eyes shined when she was excited to begin working on a new order, plus she did have a very nice figure. But those were all physical attributes, and rather shallow if they were the only reason she loved Rarity.

"That can't be the only reason, she's also"...Twilight trailed off, failing to find any good reasons other than that. It was at this point her lips started to quiver, and her eyes grew watery. Do I...not...love her?

Twilight trotted over to her desk. No, I just need to organize my thoughts! Yeah, make a list! Twilight sat down at her desk and picked up a quill with her aura.

She opened her research notebook up to a blank page, and wrote at the top of the paper: "Desirable Traits." She immediately wrote down all of Rarity's physical traits that were alluring, and then tried to think of other ones. After about five minutes of serious thought...the side of the page indicating alluring personality traits was still empty.

Giving a sigh of frustration, Twilight stared determinedly at the page. I will. No, I have to prove I love Rarity.


***


Spike ran up to the front door of the Carousel Boutique, and started knocking rapidly on the door.

"Rarity!" Spike yelled, banging on the door harder "I know you're in there! Please let me in!"

A muffled voice answered from behind the door "Spike...please leave me alone."

"I'm not leaving until you talk to me!" Spike adamantly responded. He stood, tapping his foot impatiently, in front of the door for a few more seconds before it was opened.

"Fine, what did you want to talk about." Rarity curtly said. Her mane was in slight disarray, and her eyes were cloudy. Most of all she looked mad, and the last thing Spike wanted was that anger directed at him.

"I just wanted to see how you're feeling, ya know, after-" Spike started as he followed Rarity into her house.

Rarity quickly spoke over him "You will never speak of it. I am fine, and I would like some peace!" Rarity snapped.

Spike frowned "Alright, I'm sorry. I just wanted to see if you were okay."

Rarity sighed, walking toward the kitchen "I'm sorry for lashing out like that, I'm a little confused right now."

Spike raised an eyebrow "Confused? I just thought Twi had crossed the line...again, and you were really mad."

Rarity didn't say anything for a few seconds, instead pouring herself a glass of water.

"Would you like some?" Rarity offered, much more composed. Spike shook his head, and remained silent as he sat at a small table in the kitchen. Rarity sighed once again and sat down across from him. She took a few sips of her water, glad to soothe her dry throat.

"I'm confused because..." Rarity trailed off, struggling to find the right words. "Well, ever since the night I had that dream I've been thinking all these weird thoughts."

"Dream? What dream?" Spike asked, confused.

Rarity blushed "Never mind the details." She coughed, taking another sip of water. "Basically I feel like I may be falling in love-"

"Falling in love?" Spike interjected.

"Maybe love isn't the right word, but I fear I am becoming infatuated with...Twilight." Rarity hung her head. "I know right now she's basically brainwashed, but after she's cured part of me wants her to still feel the same, albeit less clingy and insane. I'm sorry for just blurting all this out, but I'm really confused right now."

Spike stared "But, Rarity...I was going-, we were-..." Spike got up from the table. "I think I need a walk..." Spike quietly muttered, his expression neutral. However, the sadness in his eyes was a heartbreaking sight for Rarity.

"Spike, I-" Rarity started, guilt beginning to fill her mind.

"I'll be back in a little bit..." Spike replied calmly, glad he wasn't facing Rarity. This way she couldn't see the small tears rolling down his cheek. He quickly walked out of the kitchen, and slammed the door on his way out.

Rarity couldn't exactly blame him for his reaction. She knew he liked her, and that there would come a time she would just have to tell him they would never work out; which was more or less what she had done, after admitting her thoughts and feelings. I thought they said when it comes to things you don't want to do, the best way is to just get it out in the open. Rarity thought, guilt creeping into her mind. Just like ripping off a bandage...it hurts for a bit, and then it's all better.

Only instead of doing that I decided to wait until his little crush grew, Rarity laid her head on the table. She was sick. Sick of all these feelings. Sick of the worrying. Sick of Twilight's incessant flirting. Sick of actually finding it cute. I need a break, stay in Canterlot or Manehatten for a few days and just get away.

Actually, that's not a bad idea. Rarity started to smile, momentarily distracted. Make sure Spike and Twilight are okay, then bring Sweetie Belle back to mom and dad. I could sort out all my thoughts while relaxing in luxury. Rarity looked around the kitchen, unsure of what to do but feeling slightly better.

Who should I talk to first? Inevitably she would need to see both, but who to find first? Spike was off somewhere, while Twilight was most certainly back at her house. We left Twilight alone! Rarity shot up from the table, and started trotting towards the library. In all the fuss, she had sort of forgotten Twilight was still very sick and should, under no circumstances, be left alone!


***


It really wasn't a good feeling. Having the pony you loved say she was in love with your best friend was never fun. Spike looked down at his reflection. He was at a pond that he liked to visit every now and again. It was a little past Fluttershy's cottage, and really not that big. But it was quiet, and a nice way to get away from it all. It was in a small clearing of trees, and the trees around the area gave him protection from anypony who happened to pass by.

So...what now? He picked up a small pebble by the edge of the water, and threw it up in the air. Catching it, he sighed and tossed it into the water. Spike watched as the ripples interrupted the calm and mirror like water. His own image becoming distorted until the water returned to its calm state.

On some level he had always known it wouldn't work out between them. Sure, there might have been a few chances were they might've, just might've, gotten together. But...nothing ever came of the situations. Their friendship had grown though, and Spike had to admit it was great having Rarity as a friend.

All those moments, laughing with her and their friends, helping her with dresses however he could...everything gave him hope that it would somehow magically work out. Guess I was wrong, Spike thought with a frown. Even though he felt like he should be angry, he felt something more akin to light disappointment.

Am I sad she didn't pick me? Of course, Spike thought with a touch of resentment.  But should I really be mad? It's her feelings, and if Twilight and Rarity do end up getting together after all this, it would be really awkward if I held a grudge. 

"Ugh, this is why I hate love." Spike muttered, falling back onto the grass. It would take some time, but I'm sure I could get used to them together. After a few more minutes of reflection, he got up from the ground and brushed himself off. His expression now determined.

I'll talk with Rarity, and make sure that there is absolutely no chance for us. If there isn't...I can find a way to support her and Twi. Spike glanced at his reflection in the pond once more and smiled slightly. No matter the answer, although he had almost resigned himself to a no, he would get his question answered. Then, maybe this ordeal would end.


***


It was late afternoon by the time Twilight heard somepony knocking loudly on her door. She sprang up from her desk where her still nearly empty list resided, and trotted downstairs. She opened the door to find the exact mare she wanted to see.

"Rarity! Oh thank Celestia you're here!" Twilight grinned, although it didn't stay for long once the list returned to her mind.

"Why? Is something wrong!?" Rarity nervously asked "Are you alright?"

"Well, I guess I am." She frowned "I just wanted to apologize for kissing you, I shouldn't have done that."

Rarity breathed a quiet sigh of relief, glad she wouldn't be carrying Twilight back to the hospital "It's fine darling, tomorrow everything can return to normal and we can move past all this." And you won't love me anymore, Rarity stopped walking after Twilight into the library.

"You won't love me anymore." Rarity muttered, drawing a confused expression from Twilight.

"Huh? What did you say?" Twilight asked.

"Nothing." Rarity quickly replied, eager to change subjects "Do you know where Spike is?"

Twilight's smile once again transformed into a frown "Uh...not since he ran off after you, why?"

"He and I need to talk about a few things." Rarity smiled "But for now why don't we relax. I could make us some hot chocolate, as long as you promise not to do anything too-"

Twilight interrupted her "I know the drill. Don't do anything crazy." The room was silent for a few moments before Twilight dissolved into giggles. Pretty soon Rarity followed suit, and they both were laughing loudly.

"I needed that." Rarity said, grinning after they had stopped laughing. It felt like a weight had been lifted off of her chest, and no matter if they did get together; they would still be great friends.

"What, to laugh?" Twilight asked, a smile similar to Rarity's adorning her own face. "I guess I did too. Now, let's get that hot chocolate. Although I doubt it could be hotter than-"

"Watch it!" Rarity glared, although blushing faintly.

"Ah, that's adorable!" Twilight laughed as Rarity's face grew more red.

"Quiet, you." Rarity couldn't help but chuckle herself.


***


Spike walked back into the tree house once the sun had begun it's slow descent. He was met with Rarity and Twilight sitting across from each other, drinking hot chocolate and talking. It was just like normal. Well, the occasional offhand comment from Twilight wasn't.

"What are you two doing?" Spike asked.

"Oh, Spike!" Rarity sprang up from the couch "If you want talk, please tell me. I feel a little guilty for not saying something sooner, and I hate to see my favorite little dragon sad."

Spike shook his head "Later. Right now I want to grab a hot chocolate and relax. It's been a long day."

Rarity broke into a warm smile "Thank you Spike, right now I just want to have some fun with my friends."

Twilight patted the empty cushion next to her "C'mon Spike, I was just telling Rarity about the time I found all those comic books you had written-"

"Twilight!" Spike exclaimed.

The rest of the night was spent in each other's company. They all laughed and smiled, glad their relationship hadn't been ruined. But each pony knew in some form or the other it had changed, but whatever it was was eluding Twilight. She fell asleep to the thought that maybe Rarity did like her. Which in and of itself was comforting, but come tomorrow when she was cured-

Stop it! She thought, on the verge of sleep. It's not like you loved her before the poison. With that almost saddening thought, Twilight drifted off to an uneasy sleep.
> Cadence To The Rescue! 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Twilight was woken up from blissful silence by the thunderous sound of hooves banging on her front door.

Yawning, Twilight threw her blanket off of herself and drank a sip of water, from the cup she had on a nearby table, then started trotting towards the door.

Agitated at being woken from her slumber, Twilight frowned as she opened the door "Do you know how early it is? I-" her sentence was cut short when she noticed who was at the door.

"Cadence! Your here!" Twilight exclaimed, bringing the pink alicorn in front of her in for a hug.

Cadence laughed at her sister-in-law's change of face, "Of course. I knew I had to get here quickly before you embarrassed yourself."

Twilight broke the hug, blushing lightly "Yeah, I might've already done that..." She shook her head "That aside, what can you do to cure me?"

"Why, I'm doing fine, thank you." Cadence sarcastically said "Thanks for asking!"

Twilight blushed "Sorry, it's just that I want to get this over with as quickly as possible."

Cadence nodded "Well, first I need to assess your symptoms. After that we can work out a cure, and maybe have lunch and catch up?" She leaned in, "It can get a little boring ruling over a kingdom, and I'd like a change of pace." she whispered.

Twilight grinned "Sounds great. Come on in!" She beckoned with her hoof. She and Cadence entered the library and tried to walk as quietly as they could towards her room, as to not wake up Rarity or Spike.

Once they were sure their voices wouldn't wake anypony, Cadence started talking.

"Alright, I'm no potions expert. But, I do know a little about love." She looked at Twilight "And while I can't magically cure you, I do know a spell that can tell me how badly you've got it. We can work out the specifics after that" Cadence closed her eyes, and her horn started to glow.

"This may tickle a little." She said, and Twilight stood quietly looking back and forth between Cadence and herself. After a few seconds, Cadence's eyes opened and she frowned.

"There's definitely something messing with your head." She raised an eyebrow "But I'm not sure why you'd be affected this badly, it barely looks like there's anything affecting you."

Twilight frowned "But, I'm sure I drank a good amount of the poison!"

"I'm sure you did, but now it seems as if the effects are wearing off." She frowned, "but that's not the weird part."

Twilight shook her head "So, the poison just washed out of my system?" The corners of her mouth twitched upwards, before she resumed her slightly panicked expression "Wait, 'weird'? What do you mean?! Is something wrong?! I'M TOO YOUNG TO DIE!"

Cadence backed away slightly at Twilight's outburst "What? No. You're not going to die, I swear." Shaking her head, Cadence wrapped a hoof around Twilight "Listen, I've run into this problem before."

"Really? You've helped other ponies who've drank love poison." Twilight asked curiously.

Cadence's face darkened "Poison, and very well made love potions. Unfortunately not many of them drank them by accident." She smiled lightly "So I've been offering my talents at various hospitals in the Crystal Empire, whenever somepony is brought in and is exhibiting symptoms."

"Occasionally, somepony may exhibit the effects of a powerful poison without having that much in their system, which at first was confusing. After all, how could somepony who hasn't had a heavy dosage feel the effects to that extent?"

Cadence sighed, with a slightly amused look on her face "Well, after some research I realized why..."


***


Rarity was finally torn away from sleep by a combination of voices and light. Rarity blearily blinked open her eyes and stared at the ceiling for a few moments. She was exhausted, and her blankets were so warm...maybe only a few more minutes.

Rarity rolled over and saw Spike, Twilight, and Princess Cadence. Yawning, Rarity closed her eyes and felt sleep once again beginning to take-

Cadence? CADENCE! Rarity shot up from her makeshift bed, in her haste getting caught up in the covers and falling onto the decidedly less warm and less soft, hardwood floor.

"Oh dear, are you okay?" Rarity looked up from the ground and saw the slightly worried expression of Cadence above. Rarity grabbed hold of the hoof being offered to her, and was pulled off of the floor.

"Thank you, Cadence. Sorry about that, I...got excited." Rarity coughed into her hoof. "Well, nice to see you again!" She smiled.

Cadence chuckled softly "Indeed it is. May I ask what excited you so much?"

"Oh, I was just hoping you had cured Twilight." Rarity simply stated, "Please tell me you have." She added, sounding slightly desperate.

Cadence's eyes darted to Twilight before finding their way back to Rarity "Well, mostly. She doesn't seem to be affected by the poison much anymore. It won't be much longer before she's completely fine."

"Really?" Rarity asked in disbelief, before turning to Twilight.

"I feel a lot better!" Twilight grinned "Sorry about everything, by the way. I might've gone a bit overboard."

"You were insane." Spike deadpanned.

Twilight lightly punched him as she walked over to Rarity, and brought her into a light hug "But yeah, I'm fine now."

"Are you sure?" Rarity asked.

Twilight simply nodded, although something seemed off. You're just imagining things, Rarity thought to herself. "Thank goodness, I was worried for a while."

Twilight stepped back from her friend with a large grin "Now that that's out of the way, does anyone else want something to eat for breakfast?"

Spike's stomach roared. Everypony's eyes were locked on the small dragon "What?" Spike held up his hands "I haven't eaten since last night!"

"I think that's a yes." Cadence chuckled following Rarity, Twilight, and Spike into the kitchen.


***


"So, Rarity." Cadence started "How has dressmaking been lately?"

Rarity grinned "Well, I just finished a huge order a few weeks ago for a wedding. Besides that I've only had my usual amount of orders, but I'm getting a good amount of exposure. So, it has been going very well lately."

"That's good to hear." Cadence nodded, and took a sip of her tea. She, Rarity, and Twilight were all sitting around the living room of Twilight's home. After a short lunch, Spike left to pick up an order at Sugarcube Corner, and it didn't seem like he was going to be back soon. It was quiet, and relaxing, and-

"Twilight!?" Sweetie Belle yelled as she burst through the front door of the library, gasping for breath.

"Sweetie Belle?" Rarity looked up from her tea, surprised.

"Hi sis." Sweetie Belle waved in her general direction, eyes fixed on Twilight "Miss Twilight, would you like to try some lemonade the Cutie Mark Crusaders and I made." She presented a small glass filled with "lemonade", or whatever monstrosity the CMC had created in attempt to make lemonade.

"No thanks, Sweetie Belle." Twilight politely declined "I just poured myself some tea, and I wouldn't want to waste it." Twilight closed her eyes and brought the cup to her lips with magic. That was close...thank goodness I had an excuse. Sweetie Belle's history with cooking was well known, and although it was only lemonade; it's best not to take life-threatening risks.

When she opened her eyes Sweetie Belle was inches away from her face, wearing her best "hurt puppy" expression "Please Miss Twilight! I feel awful for poisoning you, and I was hoping to make it up to you somehow."

Well, I don't want to be poisoned again...is what Twilight desperately wanted to say, but instead gave in "Alright. If you worked to make me some lemonade, it would be rude to not drink it..." She trailed off, taking the glass from a now beaming Sweetie Belle. Cadence looked at Twilight's apprehensive expression, and Rarity's frown and furrowed eyebrow.

Cadence leaned over to Rarity, and whispered "What's the matter? You two look like you're about to eat a bug or something."

Rarity slightly shook her head as Twilight lifted the glass to her mouth "I'm just sorry for what Twilight has to go through."

Cadence curiosity was piqued "Surely she can't be that bad at making lemonade."

Rarity let out a dry chuckle "I've seen her cooking, but I've never seen her making drinks. I'm just preparing for the worst."

Cadence looked back to Twilight with rapt attention "This is going to be good." She mischievously grinned.

Twilight downed half of the cup in one go, and for a second everypony was silent. Twilight looked at the liquid, then to Sweetie Belle. Then back to the cup.

"That's not lemonade" Twilight flatly stated, before putting the cup down. Her face was neutral, but on the inside she was trying not to spit it all out.

"Well, no." Sweetie Belle admitted "But did it work? How do you feel."

"I feel you should learn how to make lemonade." Twilight curtly responded "What exactly was that?"

Sweetie Belle gave a shrill burst of laughter "Oh, it was something meant to cure you."

"So, you thought the solution to the mess you made, by unknowingly putting potion in her drink...was to unknowingly put potion in her drink." Rarity shook her head "Sweetie Belle, I appreciate your attempt to make things better, but Cadence has already cured Twilight."

"Cad-" Sweetie Belle looked around the room, seemingly having not noticed the alicorn sitting next to her sister "P-Princess Cadence!?"

"Hello, Sweetie Belle." She waved. Cadence got up from the couch and trotted over to Sweetie Belle and the cup "So, you made a cure?"

Sweetie Belle nodded, with a determined expression "Yes, with some help from Scootaloo and Apple Bloom, I managed to make a cure."

Cadence, raising an eyebrow, picked up the glass with her own magic. She inspected the liquid in the cup, swished it around a bit, then drank the rest of the cure. She grimaced as she swallowed.

"Sure tasted like the cure for love poison." She cringed "Ugh, nothing tastes worst."

Twilight simply nodded.

"Wait...does that mean she made it correctly?" Rarity asked, shocked.

"Actually, it does." Cadence looked down at the filly before her "I'm not sure how, maybe it was skill, or plain dumb luck, but they managed to make a fairly effective cure for love poison." Cadence grinned "Sweetie Belle?"

"Yes?" Sweetie stopped looking at the ground and focused on the princess before her.

"That's very impressive..." Cadence patted Sweetie Belle on the head "I would've never expected for somepony so young to accomplish that."

"Really?" Sweetie blushed at the praise.

"Nonetheless, I said no more messing with potions." Rarity said stepping up towards her sister "So, I'll make sure to have an appropriate punishment for you in a little while." She turned towards Twilight, who was rubbing her stomach, and Cadence who still looked like she was cringing slightly.

"Well, I'll talk to you girls tomorrow. Goodbye Twilight, Cadence." They waved good-bye as Rarity escorted a pouting Sweetie Belle out of the library.


***


Twilight looked up at her ceiling. It must've been past midnight, or at least it felt so. The rest of the day had been fun. She and Cadence had caught up with each other, and made plans to visit the Crystal Empire in a few weeks. Rarity was going to take a small vacation in Canterlot, and would be leaving tomorrow morning.

Spike had been pretty quiet, but he didn't seem to want to talk about why. Twilight understood the feeling. Her thoughts kept returning to what Cadence said, and it didn't seem like burying her face into her pillow would get rid of them.

"A pony with a low dosage, but one with preexisting feelings for the pony they fall for will feel the effects of a very strong love potion or poison." Cadence had said, before giving her a small vial of something to help get the rest of the poison out of her system faster. After that Cadence had dropped the subject, although it was obvious she was curious.

Did I have feelings for Rarity? Twilight closed her eyes. Sure, we're great friends and we get along well. But...in love? Now that the effects had worn of, she no longer felt intense love for Rarity. I guess it was just the poison.

Do I have a crush on her? Is that it? Just something small that was amplified by the poison? This was confusing, and it didn't help that she was exhausted. Letting out a deep breath, she got up from her bed. I need a glass of water. As she was leaving her room, she noticed her notebook lying open on her desk.

Walking over to it, Twilight sat down and looked at the list she had made yesterday for almost a minute before she picked up a quill and slowly began to write.
> Epilouge: Under The Moonlight
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rarity took a deep gulp of the cool air as she stepped off of the train. She looked out over Ponyville, and stood still for a moment; savoring the silence. After a week in Canterlot, returning to quiet Ponyville would be welcome. But she couldn't stand around and enjoy the silence, it was late, and she was tired. A full moon illuminated the area, wildly throwing about shadows.

Picking up her bags, Rarity levitated up her luggage and began her journey home, or to be more specific; her comfortable bed. Taking a few steps, she continued to relish the silenc-

"Rarity!"

...Huh? Rarity looked around and saw, "Twilight!? What are you doing out here this late?"

Twilight was lying down on a nearby bench, and from her expression had been sound asleep a few minutes ago "I knew you were coming home today, and I figured you'd want some help with your bags."

"Oh, it's no trouble." Rarity said, forcing a smile. "Right now I just want to bring my bags inside, and go to bed. I'll talk to you tomorrow morning, if you'd like?" She took a step forward before a still grinning Twilight stepped in front of her.

"I've prepared for that!" Twilight motioned with her hoof over towards the darkness "Spike! Would you mind taking Rarity's bags?"

"Whatever you say, Twi." Spike said, stifling a yawn as he stepped onto the train station.

"Spike! You're here too?" Rarity said, surprised.

"I was sleeping until about ten minutes ago." He grumbled, "But, Twilight wanted my help so here I am." He shrugged.

"Yes." Twilight assented "I needed some alone time to talk with you, and some luggage might've given you an excuse to escape."

"Escape?" Rarity raised an eyebrow, almost unconsciously stepping backwards, "What do you mean by that?"

"Don't be nervous!" Twilight waved her hooves, "That does sound a bit...creepy, but I only meant so that you'd have no excuse to not talk."

"How about it's nearly midnight, and I'm about to collapse from exhaustion?" Rarity deadpanned "Besides, why would I make up an excuse to avoid talking anyways?"

"Well, after what happened I didn't know if things were still weird between us." Twilight rubbed the back of her neck. The moon provided enough light to see one another, but not entirely clearly. Shadows thrown by trees and various objects shrouded their faces in darkness as a gust of wind rattled trees at the edge of the platform.

Rarity was thankful for the momentary shade that eclipsed her blush "Oh, I had almost forgotten about that." Actually, it had been in the back of her mind for most of the trip, but Twilight didn't need to know that.

Twilight looked surprised, but quickly dropped her expression as lines of shadows danced across her face "That's what I wanted to talk with you about."

"Twilight, we already said it wasn't that big of a deal. Everything's normal now, and you don't need to worry about me thinking of you any less for it." Rarity assured her, petting her head lightly.

Twilight's expression turned from complacent to determined "No, it was a big deal. Please, just walk with me for fifteen minutes so I can get everything off of my chest, and we can be completely done with this if you want."

Rarity contemplated the mare before her. She did seem distracted, so maybe some closure would be good. This might continue to be awkward for a while, and the situation isn't going to just magically disappear from ponies memories. And to be honest, maybe immediately leaving after all that and trying to forget about it wasn't the best choice.

It may not be pleasant, but talking about it and coming to terms with it would help fix their relationship. Although maybe it never would be quite the same...

"Uh, alright." Rarity sighed "Okay, we'll talk about this and-"

"By 'talk' I mean our actual feelings." Twilight interjected "I don't want you to say it's no big deal and forgive me, if you're angry about it be angry. I need for everything to be in the open for this, so I know best how to move past it."

Rarity blinked "O-okay. I promise to be completely honest."

"Great!" Twilight emphatically nodded "Now that the dramatic parts out of the way, would you mind taking a walk with me?"

Darling, I don't think the dramatic part has even happened yet. Rarity simply nodded, unsure of what she could say that she hadn't already.

Spike watched the two leave, then turned to the daunting pile of luggage "Why do I do these things to myself?"


***


"Ponyville park really looks beautiful at night, huh?" Twilight glanced sideways at her companion. They were on a small hill in the center of the park, allowing them to look at the sprawling landscape. It appeared to have rained earlier that day, indicated by droplets of water on the grass sparkling in the moonlight. The trees were half-covered in shadow, and everything seemed to be frozen in time.

If another pony wasn't next to her, Rarity could've imagined time had stopped. It was peaceful, quiet, and the rest of the world seemed very far away.

"It certainly does." Rarity agreed, but said no more. Twilight was fidgeting beside her as they walked, and kept shooting glances at her when she thought Rarity wasn't looking. She obviously wanted to say something, but she had been the one to insist on the walk. Rarity was happy to wait and see what she would say.

"I made a list!" Twilight suddenly blurted, shattering the silence and causing Rarity to jump slightly.

"Excuse me?" Rarity asked questioningly as Twilight lowered her ears and blushed lightly.

"Sorry, but um...yeah." Twilight coughed into her hoof "This went a lot smoother in my head." Twilight took a deep breath as Rarity waited, her interest raised.

"When I was sick, I made this list. It listed the qualities in you that I loved. I thought if I could write down a lot of them, then it would prove my love wasn't fake." Twilight sighed "But...everything I wrote down was a physical attribute, and I knew that wasn't true love."

Twilight stopped as they passed a small rose bush. She picked up a bud in her magic, separating it from the plant and rotating it in front of her face.

"After you left that day Cadence came, I found the list late that night." Twilight stopped talking. All was silent for a few moments, neither pony sure of what to do.

"Twilight?" Rarity tentatively offered after a few moments of silence.

"Sorry, I feel weird talking about this." Twilight turned her focus away from the pony, and back to the flower. "Alright, I was about to crumple it up and throw it away when I realized something."

Twilight plucked a petal from the flower and let it fall down "Generosity." Twilight whispered.

"My element?" Rarity asked "Sorry, Twi, but I'm still a bit confused."

"A reason aside from physical attributes. Your generosity was the first thing to come to mind, and it's the most glaringly obvious one too! I'm still kicking myself for not thinking about it before, poisoned or not!"

Twilight closed her eyes "Kindness, self confidence, creativity, intelligence..." Twilight recited, plucking one petal off at every word, allowing them to gently flutter towards the ground.

"Suddenly it was like I couldn't think of anything bad about you!" Twilight opened her eyes, and turned towards Rarity dropping her concentration, and in the process, the flower.

"Rarity, it made me realize I may actually love you." Twilight frowned slightly "OR at the least that I like you in a romantic sense."

Rarity stared at one of her best friends, her mouth open. It was like a repeat of the poison fiasco, but this time for real. There was no playing it off as love poison messing with her head.

"I'm...not too sure how to respond, actually." Rarity started.

"So, what do you-" Twilight started before Rarity shushed her.

"It's my turn to talk now, and to be honest; I've also done some thinking. You see, I...started to feel romantic feelings towards you over the course of those days, as I kept imagining you and myself together. I decided to clear my head with a vacation, put all that behind me and really sort through this myself, or preferably forget about it altogether."

Rarity frowned and stopped at a nearby bench, sitting down she took a deep breath. "But I wasn't sure if I actually wanted to be with you, or if that your actions just made me think of what it would be like if we were together."

Twilight remained standing, hanging onto every word. Right now she couldn't properly gauge Rarity's reaction, she looked nervous but her words were calm and steady; almost rehearsed. Maybe I wasn't the only one to think about what to say, Twilight thought.

"So, after a bit it dawned on me that I didn't love you..." Rarity trialed off, looking away from her friend.

Twilight visibly stiffened, her eyes widening "O-oh...." Twilight turned away. The previous calm silence was now deafening, and as Twilight stood there she frowned as her vision started to blur. Don't you dare cry! What are you, a little filly? You knew this wouldn't work!

"I...I'll just go now..." Twilight whispered. She closed her eyes, and started walking slowly towards her home. Right now, all I want to do is climb into my bed, and stay there for eternity.

She jolted as a hoof landed on her shoulder, and stopped her "Twilight..." Rarity looked at the back of Twilight's head for a few seconds before continuing "I realized that I didn't love you in that way, but I know how good of a friend you are."

Rarity spun Twilight around, and stared into her violet, glistening eyes "A part of me did like you though, and after hearing how you feel." Rarity brought Twilight into a hug "I don't think it would be a bad thing to try."

"W-what are you saying?" Twilight hesitantly asked, feeling the warmth of the pony in front of her. Slight excitement entered her voice, but part of her was sure she was dreaming.

"We can go on a date, if you want." Rarity smiled comfortingly at Twilight "I think it'll be worth it if you really do love me, but I can't promise that I'll immediately love you back, or even if we become a couple."

Twilight's mouth was open, and her eyes were wide. After a moment of stillness, she lunged forward, bringing Rarity into a large bear hug "Really! You're not just saying this to make me feel better."

Rarity patted Twilight's head, returning the hug with her other hoof "No, I really do have some feelings towards you, and you're one of my best friends. If I didn't at least try, what kind of pony would I be?"

Twilight and Rarity remained in their embrace for an indiscernible amount of time. Under the bright stars littered throughout the night sky, and a pale white full moon above them. Time was at a standstill, and in that moment, nothing else existed except for the other. Eventually, they broke apart and walked silently to their respective homes, eager for the future.


~The End~