> Discordula
>  by Hazel Heart
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Sweet, Ignorant Bliss
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Every pony in Canterlot was in preparation for the Summer Sun Celebration, when Princess Luna lowers the moon and makes way for Princess Celestia to raise the sun for all of Equestria to see. And this year's Summer Sun Celebration was an absolute special event, because Princess Twilight Sparkle and her friends were assigned a very important role during the main event. Before Princess Luna lowers the moon, Twilight and her friends must proclaim each of the Elements of Harmony they all represent to the public, because it was they who conquered Nightmare Moon, transformed her back into Princess Luna, and reunited her with her sister. Twilight and her friends were sent to the royal halls of Canterlot Castle to visit Princess Celestia for further instruction.


"You six have come so far and vanquished many obstacles with your charity, compassion, devotion, integrity,optimism, and leadership for each other. All traits that are most important in a true friendship, even during grave times. And all of Equestria will finally be taught that lesson as they witness your proclamation of friendship." Princess Celestia announced to the mane six.


"All... of Equestria?" Fluttershy gulped. "Tens... hundreds... (squeals) thousands?! (whimpers) Oh my..."


"Chillax, Fluttershy." Rainbow Dash said. "You're not gonna be the only pony onstage. I'll be right there beside you and distract the crowd with my awesomeness if things get a bit too much for ya."


"We'll all be there with you, sugarcube." Applejack said. "We'll all be there for each other, 'cause that's what true friends do."


"Precisely, darling." Rarity said. "We'll all look so ravishing with the Proclamation Gowns I have designed for each of us, that everypony will be silent and in awe of us."


"In... awe? As in... watching us...?" (squeaks)


"Well yeah, you silly filly!" Pinkie Pie exclaimed. "Everypony is so excited to see us with their parents, brothers, sisters, cousins, aunts, uncles, grandparents..."


Fluttershy started to feel dizzy. "Oh... good... ness..."


"Pinkie!" Twilight Sparkle shouted. "You're not helping this delicate situation." Twilight wrapped a protective lavender wing around Fluttershy. "You have no reason to be so nervous at all, Fluttershy." Twilight gently assured her. " We'll all be together and we'll make sure that nothing will happen to you or any of us when we give our Proclamations. Everything is going to be all right." She turned toward the other four. "Right, everypony?"


"Awww, yeah!"


"Darn tootin'!"


"Absolutely!"


"Yeah! Then there's their third-cousins twice removed, then first-nephews and nieces that are half-pinto..."


"Uhhh..... at least Pinkie said yes first." Twilight said.


Fluttershy sighed and looked out at the non-stained glass window and into the rosy evening sky, never realized that somepony.... or something... was watching her through the other side of the window in the shadows.


"Such angelic beauty..." the dark figure purred. "So much like Posey... " The dark figure slithered down the palace walls and into the royal gardens.The figure revealed itself out of the shadows as a draconequus, lingering on one of the mare statues.


"Oh, Celestia." the draconequus growled. "You shall surely pay... with your very own blood." He turned his head towards the window he peeked through seconds ago. "But... there is somepony who is even more precious than your blood... somepony who will eventually be my future bride." He chuckled darker than Black Beauty's velvet coat and plucked a dark red rose from the bush. "Brace yourself, my dear. Discordula is here."


And with that, he kissed the rose and vanished.





"I'll let you all settle in your rooms." Princess Celestia said to the main six. "I must attend to the festivities with Princess Luna. She seems to be more lively and spontaneous during the night time hours, so this should be a perfect opportunity for us both to have a little sister bonding." She turned towards Fluttershy, who was whispering good night to some baby birds that had to go back to their mama and papa.


Celestia smiled. "Your gentility and compassion towards woodland creatures is truly a precious site to behold, Fluttershy." Celestia said.


"Huh?" Fluttershy blushed as the Princess complimented her. "Thank you, Princess." She watched as the baby birds flew back into their nest.


"Something troubling you, dear child?" Princess Celestia inquired.


"Oh, no. Nothing at all." Fluttershy lowered her head and part of her mane covered half of her face. "It's... just that... I'm just nervous about the Summer Sun Celebration, where we have to be up onstage proclaiming our Elements of Harmony to all of Equestria. With everypony watching us...(gulps)... watching me. (whimpers)"


Celestia parted away Fluttershy's mane from her face and held her chin delicately with her golden-clad hoof. "My dear, you have absolutely nothing to fear. Like your friends, you've come a long way with your love and kindness for them. And, according to Twilight's letters from the past three years, you've come across some very intimidating creatures that not a lot of ponies would have the faint of heart to face with."


"Please forgive me for disagreeing with you, Princess." Fluttershy said. "But that was different. It was just one big creature alone I came across almost every time. Not a lot of ponies all over Equestria watching me."


"But, darling" Rarity cut in. "What about the time you were modeling on the runway for Photo Finish?"


"Rarity," Twilight Sparkle whispered. "Fluttershy never wanted to become a model in the first place, remember?"


".......I know, but if I was ever modeling on the runway, I would..."Rarity began, but Twilight cleared her throat loudly.


"I-I mean... Fluttershy, sweetness" Rarity said. "What I mean to say is... you have absolutely nothing to be afraid of. We'll also be onstage, and we'll be there to support you."


"Exactly!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed. " I stuck by your side at Summer Flight Camp when we were fillies, and there is no way I am ever gonna leave your side during our Proclamations."


Celestia chuckled. "Element of Loyalty, indeed." She put a reassured hoof on Fluttershy's shoulder. "See, Fluttershy? You have friends who support you, because they care about you. And I, for one, also give you my full support. Princess Luna and I will be there for you as well."


Fluttershy looked up at the Princess with her teal, doe eyes and sweet smile. "Thank you, Princess."


"You're certainly most welcome, dear heart." Princess Celestia nuzzled Fluttershy's forehead with her ivory white muzzle. "Twilight, may I speak with you for a moment, please?"


"Of course, Princess." Twilight Sparkle trotted off with Celestia, while Pinkie Pie said,"I am sooooooooo excited to fire up my party cannon! We are going to party all night long, all night long, all niiight!"


AJ, RD, and Rarity all giggled with joy while Fluttershy simply smiled and whispered, "Yay."


"Is everything all right?" Twilight asked, as soon as they were out in the hall.


"Oh, it's nothing serious or anything to worry about, Twilight." Celestia assured her."I just wanted to take this opportunity to say that I am honored for having you and your friends play a role during the main event, and especially grateful for freeing my sister from her imprisonment as Nightmare Moon and returning her to me as Princess Luna."


"I'm happy as well that we saved your little sister, after a thousand years of banishment to the moon."Twilight Sparkle said. "It must have been hard for you....."


"Indeed, it was," Celestia sighed. "Every century that I had to both raise the sun and lower the moon was an absolute bittersweet moment...."she raised her head. "But thanks to you and your friends, we were finally reunited by the magic of your friendship."


Twilight Sparkle frowned a little. "If anything like that ever happened to my friends, I don't know what I would do...."


Celestia gazed at her star pupil with solemn, violet eyes. "Twilight, there will be times when your friendship will be put to the test, but always remember this: as long as you have faith, hope, and love for your friends, the bond you all have for each other will become stronger." Celestia sighed. "Just like me and my sister's bond with a dear old friend, Posey."


"Who was Posey?"


"She was actually an ancestor of one of your own friends."


"Really? Who?"




Fluttershy was dressed in a lovely gown made of robin's egg blue fabric that sparkled and had a little ruffle at the bottom and had leaves threaded around the edges. Her dress collar was themed with spring green leaves and had a pink butterfly in the center, which signified her cutie mark, and she had delicate green ballet shoes on all her four hooves with little vines as straps.


Her flowy, pink mane was pulled back, with tiny white flowers and a few pink locks tumbled down a little. Fluttershy wanted her mane down, but Rarity said that her mane up would compliment the dress more, and Fluttershy didn't want to disappoint her friend and quietly complied.


Fluttershy looked into the mirror and kept assuring herself that everything would be all right. "You're going to be just fine." Fluttershy told her reflection. "You have absolutely nothing to...."


She suddenly spotted something small and dark red by the windowsill out of the corner of her eye. She turned toward the window and saw that it was a rose. She leaned toward it and gave it a cautious sniff. The scent was heady with its delicate, flowery perfume. "Mmmmmmmm," Fluttershy sighed. She closed her doe-like eyes. "So lovely..." 


"Yes, you are..." a deep voice purred.


Fluttershy felt so dazed from the flower's scent that she didn't even notice a shadowy eagle claw slowly reach toward her. It gently stroked her from her cheek to her chin and Fluttershy moaned inwardly from the touch.


"My precious one," The voice soothingly said. "You will be mine...."


The shadow of the draconequus leaned his lion paw under Fluttershy's chin and whispered, "I'm coming for you... my lovely, little pony..."


" Fluttershy! Are you ready, darling?"


The shadow hissed at the intruder knocking and fled the scene, leaving Fluttershy blinking her lovely eyelids and coming to.


"Fluttershy?" Rarity poked her gorgeous coiffed head in the doorway. "Sweetie, what are you doing by the window?" Rarity was stunning in a dramatic violet gown with tiny diamonds in her purple mane, dark purple gloves for her front hooves, and matching slippers for her back hooves.


"Ughhhh," Fluttershy groaned lightly against the windowsill and rubbed her head. " I feel so dizzy."


"I know, sweetie. I know you're very nervous about our Proclamations." Rarity cooed to her dear friend. "I made you a shawl since there's a peculiar wind coming in and out." She magically produced a cream colored shawl and wrapped it around Fluttershy's shoulders.


"Oh, Rarity. Thank you."Fluttershy smiled sweetly to Rarity. "No wonder your the Element of Generosity, giving ponies what they need."


"Anything for you, sweetness." Rarity gently booped Flutterhy's nose with her gloved hoof. "Now, everything will be just fine. You'll see soon enough, my dear."


As the two gorgeous ponies left the room, the draconequus growled softly in his throat.


"Until we meet again, my precious love.... soon." Then he thought of Rarity and how deliciously pretty she looked. "And maybe..... I'll have a little dessert tonight." The shadow laughed a rich, evil laugh.
> It Takes Two To Lead Astray
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The social party was both held in the Royal Ballroom and out in the front gardens of the Canterlot Castle. The Royal Ballroom was filled with balloons, confetti, streamers (of course, all the decor came from Pinkie Pie's party cannon) and the music was resonating off the stereo system, led by DJ PON-3. The dessert platter consisted of cupcakes, macarons, cake pops, and sparkling red punch. Twilight Sparkle cast a spell on the dessert table, just in case Pinkie Pie wanted to consume all the treats, but Pinkie was too busy enjoying all the dancing and humming to the rhythm of the music. 


"Good thing you casted a spell on the dessert table," Applejack whispered to Twilight. Applejack's attire was country-themed with a saddle that was decorated with little apples and a navy-blue jean skirt. She had on a dark brown cowgirl hat with a rose and matching cowgirl boots. "I can't keep track of Pinkie Pie like a hog can't keep track of its own hygiene."


Twilight giggled. "Well, better be safe than sorry." Her gown was toned with sparkly purple and hinted with a little bit of blue. She wore her Princess Crown that had magenta colored gems. 


She was looking around the Ballroom with contented satisfaction and sighed. "The party looks wonderful." She turned back to Applejack. "Have you seen Fluttershy and Rarity?"


"Rarity went to go get Fluttershy." Applejack informed. "She said she wanted to give Fluttershy something warm to put on, just in case."


"How sweet of her," Twilight remarked. "Well, I hope Rarity can help Fluttershy get over her worries."


"Tell me about it." Rainbow Dash replied. "I mean I love Fluttershy like a sister that I always want to protect, but I'm glad that she has Rarity with her to depend on." Her gown had a cloud themed saddle with rainbow streaks emanating out of it and was laid on a misty blue lace skirt. She had on golden Greek-style slippers and her mane was tied back with a cloud-themed clip.


"Come on, everypony!" Pinkie Pie shouted in the microphone. "Shake those groove-thangs to the beat!!!" Pinkie Pie was dressed with a white ruffled collar and a  gold saddle that held onto a rosy pink skirt. Her bouncy pink mane was decorated with blue and white beads.


Applejack sighed. "Time to lasso up that pony before she can think of anything else so harebrained."





The front garden party was positively breathtaking. The trees were strung with blue and silver fairy lights, the vegan buffet was set up on the lawn serving many of the guests, and the musical orchestra was tuning up their instruments. Fluttershy and Rarity entered the garden party and a few gentlecolts' heads turned toward their entrance.


"How delightful is this little soiree in the castle gardens?" Rarity remarked. "The banquet in the Ballroom is vividly entertaining, but I personally prefer a charming little event like this."


"Oh, I agree," Fluttershy said. "It's more calm and quiet, and it's outside with so many beautiful flowers, lovely atmosphere..."


"And such handsome, hunk-worthy stallions," Rarity commented, batting her eyelashes at two unicorn stallions. 


"Oh, Rarity...." Fluttershy whispered. "Don't encourage them...."


"Too late," Rarity winked. 


The two stallions were walking towards Fluttershy and Rarity and introduced themselves as North Pole and South Pole.


"My name is Rarity," Rarity extended her hoof towards North Pole. "And this is my dear friend, Fluttershy."


South Pole gently held Fluttershy's hoof and kissed it. "An absolute pleasure to meet you Fluttershy."


"Oh... my," Fluttershy blushed. "A-and you as... well, South Pole."


"Say, haven't we first met you charming ladies at the Grand Galloping Gala a few years ago?"asked North Pole. 


"I believe we might have," Rarity suggested. 


"All I could honestly remember was a lot of singing..." Fluttershy admitted shyly.


"Well, I for one could remember such a beautiful face like yours," North Pole inquired toward Rarity.


"Or a beautiful voice such as yours," South Pole said to Fluttershy. "Would you care to dance with me?"


Fluttershy gulped and retreated beside Rarity whispering, "Oh, this is too much. Rarity, why did you have to bat your eyes at them?"


"One: because I’m so good at it. And two: this is a perfect way to let go of your fears, darling. Mingle a bit with a gorgeous gentlecolt and just enjoy yourself." Rarity encouraged her. "Just little foal steps at a time, darling." Rarity turned to South Pole. "I trust my friend will be in good, strong hooves?"


"Oh, most assuredly." South Pole held up Fluttershy's hoof tenderly and gazed at her with content eyes. "In fact, I am honored to be in this lovely filly's charge."


Fluttershy casted her face away shyly like a doe and allowed South Pole to lead the way on the dance floor.


"Shall I have the honor to accept a dance from you?" North Pole asked Rarity.


Rarity looked up at North Pole with seductive blue eyes. "Why, North Pole. Of course I-"


"Hi, Rarity!" Spike, Twilight Sparkle's young dragon ward, was in a tuxedo and black top hat. "Um, I-I was just wondering... you know, after your done dancing... with this guy..." Spike looked up at North Pole with envy in his eyes. "Do you... um, want to... dance... with me?"


"Oh, Spikey-boo." Rarity looked at North Pole with nervous eyes, then back at Spike. "Um, darling... how about I dance with you after..." Rarity paused for a moment. "... after you can find me some sparkling red punch in the Royal Ballroom, please?"


"OKAY!" Spike replied enthusiastically. "I shall be looking forward to it..." he bowed to her. ".... sweet Rarity."


Rarity gave Spike a sheepish grin as she trotted towards the dance floor with North Pole. "My apologies, North Pole," Rarity said. "That was another one of my dear friends, Spike. He's a very sweet dragon."


"Indeed," North Pole glanced towards Spike. "I can't blame him for being so attentive towards you."


"Oh, well..." Rarity blushed. 


"Shall we, then?" North Pole inquired. 


Rarity beamed. "We shall."





"I-I must tell you... I have four left hooves when it comes to dancing," Fluttershy confessed.


South Pole chuckled. "I think I can brave it. Besides," he held her chin tenderly. "You're worth the effort."


Fluttershy blushed as South Pole began to take her hoof, but suddenly South Pole froze with blank eyes and uttered in a monotonous tone, "I apologize, my dear. I also have two left hooves and a big, arrogant ego. Now if you'll excuse me, I must go refresh myself."


Fluttershy's expression was an adorable mix of bewilderment and concern. "Oh, South Pole. May I fetch you some water?"


"Oh, no. Please don't concern yourself with my dull awkwardness." South Pole began to walk away backwards. " I'll venture it alone, if you don't mind."  


"Oh, um... okay." Fluttershy lowered her ears. "I hope you'll feel better...." She sighed sadly. "I hope it wasn't anything I've done to not make him dance with me." She walked off of the dance floor and sat down with the other mares who were waiting for a colt or stallion to ask them for a dance. "Maybe I'm not cut out for having a wonderful time with a stallion, like Rarity."


Suddenly she heard one of the mares gasp and whisper, "Who is that handsome stallion?" "Oh, my Celestia! He's... so.... breathtaking..." "(squeal) He's coming this way!"


Fluttershy thought South Pole finally felt better and would come to ask her back on the dance floor. But it wasn't South Pole at all...


"Oh... my..." Fluttershy whispered. A tall, lean stallion was approaching close to the group of mares she was sitting with and he was magnificent to behold. He appeared to be a pegasus pony, as his wings were somewhat lean for a male pegasus. Both his wings and coat were silver grey and his mane and tail were a charcoal black. He had a little wisp of a white goatee, which Fluttershy never saw on a stallion as young as he was. His cutie mark was a dragon skull that had a rose in between its jaws.	Fluttershy turned her face away and prayed that he wouldn't see her. She wished that Rarity would let her wear her mane down, so she wouldn't be noticed. This hairstyle was too bold for Fluttershy to wear, so she shut her eyes, wrapped Rarity’s shawl tight around her shoulders and waited for the mysterious stallion to pick a mare to dance with.


"Now why would anypony try to hide such a pretty face, hm?"


Fluttershy inwardly squeaked and opened one eye to the side where she heard the dark, yet gentle voice. He was right in front of her, staring at her. The mares silently gasped and whispered, "Lucky! Oh, I wish I was in her horseshoes right now..."


"...oh...... uh-um..." Fluttershy quietly stammered. She shyly looked down and was too nervous to make eye-contact with this tall stranger. "H-hello, g-good sir..." 


As he lifted her chin with his hoof, Fluttershy slowly gazed first at his smoldering, yet reassuring smile. And then into his eyes that were a sinful deep color of red.


He chuckled. "There she is." He tilted his head a little to the side. "And your name is...?"


Fluttershy blushed and squeaked, "F-F-Fluttershy..."


The stallion closed his eyes and quietly sighed. "Fluttershy," he slowly murmured. "Sounds just like butterfly, a beautiful creature to behold.... it clearly suits you."


Fluttershy sheepishly smiled. "Oh... th-thank you, um.."


"Oh, please forgive me," the stallion bowed. "My name is Drake Dracoulis. But you can call me Drake," he winked.


"D-Drake? Goodness, I-I've never heard that kind of name before." Fluttershy admitted. "Well, it's an honor to meet you, Drake."


"Well, may I have the most highest of honors to have a dance with you?" Drake asked with an extended hoof.


"Oh...." Fluttershy was afraid if Drake would trot out on her like South Pole did. "A-are you sure you want to dance with me, and won't get so lightheaded and...?"


"My dear, why would you ever think of such a thing?" He tilted his head to the other side. "Did somepony, or should I say, some mule stood you up?" He turned towards a mule in a top hat, who was walking alongside him. "No offense."


"None taken." The mule replied, sipping a glass of sparkling red punch.


"Oh,well..." Fluttershy explained.


"How about we continue this little explanation while we dance, hmm?" Drake inquired. "And you can trust me on my word," he nuzzled her chin with his front knee. "I shall never abandon you."


She saw trust and reassurance in his eyes. It's just one dance, Fluttershy. She thought. Just little foal steps at a time, like Rarity said. "Okay," she said softly. She placed her hoof in his and allowed him to lead her to the dance floor.


Octavia took the lead with her cello and started playing in slow notes that sounded so deep and mysterious like Drake, while the violinists followed high and sweet like Fluttershy. Drake turned Fluttershy towards himself and started to trot in place to the music. Fluttershy tried to follow him, but was starting to get a little skittish on how to match his hoofing. Drake started to notice and pulled her closer towards his chest.


"Maybe it would be better if we were closer together, don't you think?" Drake whispered into her ear.


Fluttershy squeaked when she realized that Drake was so close to her face. She blushed and sheepishly smiled at him. "I-I just never danced with anypony like this before," Fluttershy confessed. 


"Hmmm, then I guess I shall be the one to have the honor of being your first dancer to do... this." Drake freed his hoof from Fluttershy's, twirled her a little, and dipped her.


Fluttershy gasped with surprise as Drake slowly brought her back up with a smug smile and a chuckle. “So worth the effort to see your face react in such an adorable display.”


Fluttershy felt heat in her cheeks. “G-goodness....” she stuttered. “ Th-that was...so sudden.” 


“How about we take this dance to new heights?” Drake inquired. And with that, Drake spread his wings and gently lifted Fluttershy into the sky.


Fluttershy nervously squeaked. “Drake...heights are one of the many things I’m afraid of.”


Drake gazed at her face and held her chin in his hoof. “Just keep your eyes on me and not on the ground.” His voice sounded deep, yet gentle. “I swear I’ll never let you go.”


Fluttershy looked up at Drake, with the pearl-white moon illuminating in the background. All her life, Fluttershy has always been nervous around many things: heights, crowds, huge, fire-breathing dragons (even though she told one dragon off like a stern mother). But as she gazed into Drake’s syrah red eyes, she felt a new kind of nervous that she had never felt before. Drake appeared to be charming and intimidating so much so that Fluttershy wanted to hide from him, yet she didn’t want to. He seemed so sweet and gentle with her...... but then again, she just met him. Oh, what am I doing? Fluttershy thought to herself. What is this feeling that I feel for somepony I just met? I don’t even know anything about him, yet he chose me to dance with him. I... I suppose I could just... ask him? “Um...” Fluttershy started. “Drake...?”


“Yes, dearest Fluttershy?”


“I...well...um...” She felt like her lips were going numb. “I... just... wanted to know... if it was alright with you, of course.... if you could tell me... a little bit about yourself?”


“Oh, well... there’s not much to tell, really...” Drake looked away for a moment at the moon as he still held Fluttershy in his arms. “I’m just a lone stallion who seeks the joy of life, intrigue...” he glanced back at Fluttershy with a smile, “... and beauty.”


Fluttershy tried to hide behind her hair like a fawn hiding behind her mother’s legs. Drake sighed as he twirled with her in their dance. “And then there are times when I would like to venture alone in the solace of nature and appreciate the sights and sounds of an evergreen utopia... and dream of making it my own.”


Fluttershy never heard anypony describe nature like that before. And she, of all ponies, loved and appreciated nature. “Really? What do love most about nature?” 


Drake stroked Fluttershy’s soft, pink mane. “Flowers,” he whispered as he found one of the little flowers that were in Fluttershy’s mane. “Flowers are precious, gentle little things that can surprise you with their color, beauty, and inner courage to face the sun.” He gazed into Fluttershy’s eyes. “ Yet, you sometimes feel the need to care for and protect what is so gentle and precious to you... that you feel...” 


Fluttershy could feel Drake’s forehead touch hers and her eyes started to flutter with anticipation for what he was about to say. With her eyes somewhat closed, Fluttershy could feel that Drake dipped her again, with Octavia finishing the music with her deep, cello chords. There was stomps of applause from down below. 


“Oh, my... Drake?” Fluttershy asked. “The music seems to be over... may we please... go back down to the party?”


“I thought you wanted to get to know me, my dear,” Drake gently persisted.


“I-I do... just safely on the ground.” Fluttershy thought she saw Drake’s eyes change yellow around his red pupils for a moment, but perhaps it was the trick of the moonlight. 

“As you wish,” Drake graciously acquiesced to her request. He slowly landed on the ground, with Fluttershy still in his arms. Fluttershy slowly stepped out of his embrace and thanked him for dancing with her.


“Please,” Drake murmured, still holding her hoof. “I believe it was I who had the greatest pleasure of dancing with you.” Fluttershy sheepishly looked away, but glanced back at him with shy, doe eyes. 


“Fluttershy, darling!” Fluttershy turned her attention towards Rarity, who was trotting along with North Pole at her side. “Oh, how marvelous is this? We get to dance with such eligible stallions and... wait a moment. Darling, where is South Pole?”


“Oh, Rarity. It was so strange. South Pole said he didn’t feel well and... I guess he suddenly didn’t feel like dancing with me. I wanted to help him, but he didn’t want any of my assistance.”


“Oh, precious. I’m so sorry.” Rarity turned to North Pole. “Is he always like this?”

“Not really.” North Pole raised an eyebrow. “He would never deny a mare for a dance. Fluttershy, do you know where he is?”


“Well, no. All he said was that he was going to go refresh himself, so he might either be at the punch table or the fountain in the garden. He could be anywhere.”


“Right, I’ll go search for him. Rarity,” he held Rarity’s hoof and kissed it. “It’s been a pleasure to dance with you and I hope we’ll meet again soon.”


Rarity beamed at North Pole. “I hope so as well.” 


As soon as North Pole left, Fluttershy said, “Oh, Rarity. I’d like to introduce you to Dra-” But as she turned back to where Drake stood, he was gone. “Wha-? Drake?” Fluttershy looked around and couldn’t find any signs of Drake.


“Drake? Who’s Drake, darling?”


“Well, he’s-”


“Rarity!” Spike came running towards the two with a glass filled to the brim with sparkling red punch. “I got you some punch! You must be thirsty after dancing with that North Pole....lucky stallion... (clears throat) Anyway, do you want to have another dance...” Spike took his hat off and gazed up at Rarity with eager, emerald eyes. “... with me this time?”


“Well, North Pole did leave on short notice and you’ve been sweet enough to fetch some punch for me. I suppose I can accept a little dance with you, Spikey-wikey.”


“....... REALLY?! WOO-HOO!!!!!” Spike exclaimed. All the ponies in the garden turned their attention to him in annoyance. “Uh, I mean... great.” Spike blushed a little. “And... sorry, everyone.” 


Rarity giggled a little. “ Just let me finish my drink first, if you please.” Just as her lips met with the brim of the glass, she heard a commanding, yet gentle whisper in the winds calling her name. “Rarity.... come to me....now...” There was something about this voice that sounded so... tempting... and hard to resist. 


Spike noticed that Rarity was sighing longingly. “Rarity? Are you okay?”


She glanced back towards Spike. “Darling, I’d like to finish my drink in the garden, if you don’t mind.”


Spike glanced around the garden party. “Uh.... we are in the garden.”


“I’m just going to take a little stroll around to clear my head before I want to dance again.”


“Do you want me to come with you?”


“No, no, no, Spike. I’ll be fine on my own.” Rarity whisked herself away around the corner of the castle, with glass in her magic, blue aura.


Spike turned to Fluttershy. “Aw, man. I hope she’ll come back soon.”


“Oh, I’m sure she’ll be alright, Spike.”


“So, do you want to dance with me, Fluttershy?”


“(giggles) Sure, Spike.”






“Where are you, you dark, sly stranger?” Rarity called out.


“Over here, you delectable, little morsel.” 


Rarity turned her attention in a clear opening of a marble bench illuminated by the moonlight. She approached in the opening with caution, looking around. 


“Have a seat, lovely.” 


Rarity took a seat on the bench and sipped her punch. Through the glass, she saw a figure in the distance, with dark smoke trailing behind. “North Pole, is that you?” She said dreamily.


“Hardly.” Rarity saw the figure’s yellow eyes glowing in the moonlight. “I see you’re having a drink there, little lady.” The figure stepped out of the darkness, and the moonlight revealed Discordula, smiling at Rarity menacingly with sharp, white teeth. “Just looking at you, I’m pretty parched myself.” 
> The Mane Event
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Oh don’t worry, Spike.” Fluttershy said. “I’m sure Rarity will come back and dance with you. She probably needed some space to finish her drink after dancing and talking with North Pole.”


“I guess,” Spike nodded sadly. “It’s just that I don’t understand why she suddenly wanted to be alone before she was gonna dance with me. And also, I think I heard her sigh... like whenever she could smell her favorite breakfast in the morning: whole-wheat pancakes with vanilla oat swirl ice cream, decorated with crystallized violets.” Or how I sigh every time I see her so happy when I successfully help her out and she rewards me with either an emerald or a kiss on the cheek... I like the second option better.


Fluttershy was surprised that Spike could remember Rarity’s favorite type of breakfast, but thought better of not asking him how he knew. Instead, she said, “Well, in a way she kind of reminds me of her pet cat, Opalescence, because Opal also wants things her way, too. Like, whenever Rarity brings her to my cottage, poor little Opal always needs the room temperature to be at exactly eighty one point four degrees. Ponies and their pets can sometimes relate to each other.”


“That’s true,” Spike replied. “You and Angel may be different, but at least he loves and appreciates you.”


“Mm-hmm... wait,” Fluttershy gave Spike a confusing look. “How is Angel different from me?”


“Oh, well you know, uh...” Spike started to blush and nervously scratch his scales. “ ‘cause... you see, you’re always so nice to everypony and me, and Angel... well... (nervous chuckle).... well, he’s...”


“Yo, Fluttershy!” Rainbow Dash flew down from the sky. “I’ve been looking for you everywhere, I had to take to the sky. Not that I’m complaining, ‘specially since Rarity made my dress all loose and easy to fly in.” She paused. “... speak of the unicorn, where is she? I thought she was with you.”


“She was,” Spike replied before Fluttershy could. “But she said she had to take a stroll to ‘clear her head’.” He sighed. “Just when she was about to dance with me...”


“Well, Twilight just gave us a ten minute warning about the mane event, so I wanted to give you a heads up.” Rainbow Dash advised.


Fluttershy squeaked nervously. “I-it’s almost time? Goodness....” she bowed her head in fear. 


“Hey,” Rainbow Dash wrapped a hoof around her shoulder. “What did I say before? I’ll be right there beside you like peanut butter and Zap Apple Jam!”


Fluttershy gave her lifelong friend a small, hopeful smile.


“But what about Rarity?” Spike had a worried expression on his face. “We have to find her and tell her!”


“He’s right,” Fluttershy agreed. “I hope she’s okay.”


“Hop on my back, Spike” Rainbow Dash replied. “The three of us are gonna find Rarity airborne style!”


Spike climbed on RD’s cloud saddle. “Wow, I could sure rest on something as soft and cozy like this.”


“Don’t get too comfortable, squirt. ‘Cause this pegasus is a mare on a mission.” Rainbow Dash flew in the sky with a rainbow trailing behind her and Fluttershy, who still wondered why Drake disappeared all of a sudden. Stallions are so strange sometimes.... but even so, I wonder where he is right now. She sighed with a little blush on her cheeks, thinking about how he held her in his strong, secure arms as she gracefully flew behind Rainbow Dash.





Rarity sighed dreamily as Discordula drank from her pearl-white neck. “Mmmmm,” Discordula softly growled. You may not be my angelic pegasus, but you, my gorgeous unicorn, taste divine. Yet he still thought about Fluttershy as he kept drinking: how she looked so beautiful in her lovely gown that sparkled in the moonlight, how soft and gentle she felt in his arms as he danced with her in the sky, how he wanted to get lost in her adorable, ocean green eyes.... 


“Rarity!”


Discordula immediately snapped his attention toward the sound coming from above. He didn’t want any witnesses, especially with evidence. So he quickly licked Rarity’s neck clean and healed the punctured wounds, but since he was in a rush, the wounds still remained, so he switched Rarity on her other side that was her untouched side of her neck, whispered words to her in a quick command and slithered away in the shadows.


“There she is!” Spike pointed down in the area where he saw Rarity lie unconsciously on the stone bench. Rainbow Dash flew down to the ground with Spike eagerly hopping off her back and rushing to Rarity’s aid. Spike felt Rarity’s face with his purple claw. “Her face is so cold! And she can’t wake up!”


“Yo, Fluttershy! We found her!”


Fluttershy? Discordula hid behind the darkest part of the garden in the rosebushes, casted away by the moonlight, just to get a quick glimpse of Fluttershy’s beauty. But as he saw her descend from above the moonlit sky like an ethereal angel, he remained stone still in his hiding place. Oh, darling. You have no idea what your beauty does to me. 


“Oh my goodness, Rarity!” Fluttershy rushed by Spike’s side and immediately took off the shawl Rarity gave her. She wrapped it around Rarity’s shoulders. “Oh, my poor dearest friend. You need it so much more than I do.” She gently stroked Rarity’s purple locks away from her face.


.....or what your tender kindness towards others does to me.


Fluttershy could also see that Rarity’s face looked somewhat drained, even though she looked like she awoke from a good dream. And her pearly white complexion looked a tinge duller, like a diamond losing its shiny luster.


“Mmmm.... oh, what a deliciously glorious dream I just had,” Rarity purred. “I was hoping it would never end...” 


“Rarity, you had us all worried sick!” Spike exclaimed. “Especially me, since I volunteered to walk with you.... I mean, I understand you wanted some time alone to yourself, but still...”


“Whoa, whoa, whoa! Easy there, Romeo,” Rainbow Dash whispered. “Just let her take a moment to breathe a bit before you grill her with the questions.”


While Spike continued to fuss over Rarity, Fluttershy thought she heard a rustle of leaves somewhere, like there was someone hiding. But as she turned her direction towards the sound, she thought she could see two yellow eyes glinting in the shadows. Fluttershy silently whimpered and cowered away towards her friends, but then she suddenly heard a deep, yet gentle voice that sounded somewhat familiar to her. You have no need to fear me, little one. Please...just come to me....


Fluttershy felt both nervous and concerned, because her friend Rarity seemed to be in some sort of distress, (though Rarity didn’t seem to complain much about it), but Fluttershy was drawn towards the voice in her head and was curious about who this voice belonged to and why he sounded so familiar.... “Who....are you?” Fluttershy wondered out loud. 


“Did you say something, Fluttershy?”


“Huh?” Fluttershy snapped her attention back towards her friends and realized she was almost a few hooves away from them. “I.... I thought I heard something in the bushes...” she answered as she trotted back towards her friends. “Must’ve been my imagination, I guess.”


“Rarity, are you gonna be okay during the whole Proclamations thing?” Rainbow asked. " ‘Cause you kinda look a little bit tired... and paler than usual.”


“Whatever do you mean, Rainbow?” questioned Rarity. “If anything, I feel better than ever! It must’ve been something in the punch that made me drift off to sleep and dream of.... him.” she finished with a dreamy smile.


“Him?” Spike asked. “You mean... North Pole?”


“Who...?  Oh, oh yes...yes. North Pole... the stallion of my dreams.”


“Uh, Rare?” Rainbow cut in. “As much as we’d love to recap on who made the top of your list of dreamy stallions, we now have a five minute warning for the mane event! We better find the others and get ready, so let’s get going!”


“(groans) Already?” Rarity groaned. “I know that the Princess wanted us to prepare for this special occasion, but I guess time flies when you’re having a wonderful time dancing the night away...” (“Time sure didn’t fly for me,” Spike whispered sadly to himself).... and dreaming of a tall, dark mysterious stranger appear out of the shadows-”


“And you both lived happily ever after surrounded by a bunch of dancing diamonds,” Rainbow Dash concluded. “We get that, but the few minutes we have right now are gonna start to shrink into seconds, so let’s hustle, ponies!..... and Spike.” 


“Rainbow Dash is right,” Spike agreed. He noticed that Rarity’s shawl came a little loose as Fluttershy sat Rarity up. Spike started to reach his claw toward her shawl. “Rarity, here. Let me help you get bundled up and-”


“Oh, NO! No, no, no, precious scales.” Rarity hurriedly covered her neck and shoulders before Spike could come any closer. “I appreciate your concern, but please. Don’t either one of you fuss your fangs or feathers over me. I’ll be fine, really.” 


“Alright then, let’s do this!” Rainbow Dash shouted. 


“Yes, do let’s...” Rarity held onto her shawl more securely and prayed that she would never lose it or that it would come off.... especially after what he told her.


As they all started to leave to find the others, Fluttershy couldn’t shake off the feeling that she was being watched. Maybe it wasn’t her imagination after all. Maybe she did see those yellow pair of eyes and they were probably gazing at her right now. She looked over in the area where she saw them last and was too nervous to take a closer look. Suddenly, she could’ve sworn that she saw two yellow slits glinting in the darkness, but was interrupted by the sound of Rainbow Dash calling her name. Fluttershy paused for a brief moment to make sure she wasn’t imagining it, then quickly cantered off to be with her friends. 





As the royal trumpets blared with their royal Canterlot tune, Princesses Celestia and Luna approached forward on the platform. Princess Twilight Sparkle, Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash were by Princess Celestia on her left, while Applejack, Rarity, and Fluttershy were beside Princess Luna on her right. 


“Fillies and gentlecolts,” Princess Celestia announced. “We are gathered here tonight for one of our most famed mane events: the Summer Sun Celebration. But this Summer Sun Celebration shall be the most memorable of all, for Princess Twilight Sparkle and her friends shall declare their Proclamations of Friendship to us all in Equestria.” She gestured Twilight to approach forward. “And so, we shall first hear words of wisdom from Twilight Sparkle, the Princess of Friendship.”


Twilight beamed at her cherished mentor. “Thank you, Princess,” Twilight turned her attention toward the many faces of ponies. “This is truly a most memorable time, not just for me, but also to the friends I have so graciously come to know. They have taught me so many lessons that are so valuable and outshines every other lesson that I have ever come across. These lessons must be shared to all and we are more than honored to share them with you tonight...”


Suddenly, Twilight’s opening speech was interrupted by an unexpected and unscheduled thunderclap. Everypony looked up in the sky as pink clouds started to gather and produce brown raindrops.


“What?!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed. “We aren’t supposed to have rain tonight, and tonight of all nights! What’s going on?!!”


Pinkie Pie let out her tongue to get a taste of the raindrops. “Oh my gosh!” Pinkie Pie squealed. “It tastes like chocolate milk!”


“That’s because it is chocolate milk, Pinkie!” Applejack said. “But why in the hay is it raining chocolate milk from those pink clouds?”


Twilight turned toward Princess Celestia to question this unpredictable act of weather, but Celestia’s facial expression beheld grim knowledge that only she and her little sister were well aware of. Celestia then directed her gaze to Luna. “Sister, inform the guards to make sure that everypony must take shelter in their homes. I will settle this matter alone... with him.”


“Understood, sister,” Luna responded. She then turned to the mane six and advised them to follow her while addressing the guards of Celestia’s royal orders.


“But, Princess Luna,” Twilight began to ask. “Why is it raining on the night of the Summer Sun Celebration?”


“Celestia and I have seen this ordeal a thousand years ago,” Princess Luna explained. “Those cotton candy clouds and chocolate milk rain are a sign that he has returned.”


“Who?” 


Princess Luna slowly turned her head to Twilight. “Discordula.”





Princess Celestia breached her way out of the cotton candy clouds, using her magic to blast away the sticky, pink substance. She glanced around, searching for the vampiric tyrant she thought was long gone forever.


“Well, well, well,” a rich voice murmured behind her. “It’s about time you made your ever exuberant presence known.”


Princess Celestia slowly turned. “I’ve always wished you a millennium in Tarturus since I’ve seen you last.” she silently sneered.


“Your words of cheap hatred towards me are but a mere soft flick of a kitten’s paw compared to what I’m about to do with you.” Discordula growled, his lion paw armed at the ready with the blackest and sharpest of claws. 


“I know what you want.... and who you want. She’ll never accept you, for being a monster to all other innocent mares who fall prey to you.” 


He smirked, retracting his claws. “And the topic in our conversation just started to get interesting.” He chuckled low in his throat. “(sighs) It’s remarkable, isn’t it? The resemblance she possesses from her ancestor...so adorable...so gentle...so soft to the touch...”


Princess Celestia reared up her magic in her horn. “If you so much as touch a single feather off of her again...”


He cackled a laugh. “Oh, what will you do? Now that I’ve already fed on a rather exquisite unicorn that I’ve ever laid eyes upon, I don’t think you’ll stand a chance this time.”


“You-” Celestia’s expression froze for a mere moment, before glaring menacingly at Discordula again. “You vile beast-”


“Yes, Celestia,” Discordula showed his fangs. “And soon, you will meet the same fate as she.”


“You’ve always thirsted for alicorn blood,” Celestia stated. “But I shall never fall prey to you and let you take my blood...and Fluttershy!”


“Why, Celestia,” he taunted. “You make it sound like a challenge. And you know as well as I that I find challenges to be deliciously thrilling...” he slowly smirked. “...especially since the prize is that lovely, little pegasus...”


Princess Celestia started to charge towards Discordula, horn glowing fiercely with her golden aura.


Discordula merely yawned. “Oh, Celie. Over a thousand eons, and you still haven’t learned what I am capable of.” He glared at her with evil menace. “Well now you’re going to learn that anypony who dares to stand in my way shall pay...with her own blood.” 


And with that, he and Celestia lunged towards one another.
> Royal Despair
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

While all the Royal Guards escorted everypony to their homes and advised them to remain inside, Princess Luna led the mane six and Spike to the throne room. “Discordula is the mischievous spirit of chaos and disharmony,” Luna explained. “A monstrous draconequus who possesses a vampiric nature, which makes him a dangerous threat to all ponies.” She stopped and pointed towards a glass-stained window that beheld an image of a serpentine-like creature with the head of a horse, and arms and legs of frightening creatures, along with wings and a snake tail. 


Everyone (except Princess Luna, Rarity, and Fluttershy) gasped in horror at the sight of the creature’s appearance. Spike thought he heard Rarity quietly sigh and looked at her curiously. She looked eerily calm and had that same dreamy look on her face she had when she was talking to North Pole. Why isn’t she scared? Spike thought. And why the heck is she looking at the glass window like that? Probably likes the way the Princesses have stained glass windows... but that weird looking dude looks so freaky, I don’t see why she likes that window so much.


Fluttershy silently inhaled as she looked up at the glass image of Discordula. She slowly put a hoof over her heart, wondering how such a beast.... or in this case since he is part horse, a stallion... could ever exist. 


“On the day that both me and my sister’s cutie marks were bestowed on our flanks and our destinies became known, Discordula thought we were still too young and feeble to rule all of Equestria. At night, he entered into our dreams and tried to put us under his thrall so Celestia and I would be his vulnerable, small-minded prey; whispering lies and false praise when he really wanted to be rid of us so he could be free to unleash his chaos into the world....” Luna lowered her head in quiet sadness. “..... and drink the blood of innocent virgin mares.”


Fluttershy shuddered a gasp as she fainted at the sound of the last sentence. “Sugar cube!” Applejack exclaimed,  catching her before she could hit the floor. Applejack brushed away Fluttershy’s long pink mane away from her face and put a hoof on her forehead. “Poor darlin’ is shakin’ like a baby chick without the warmth of a mother hen.”


Princes Luna turned to the royal unicorn aide, Raven. “Please take Miss Fluttershy to her bedchamber and send for a few hoofmaidens to assist her.”


“Yes, Your Highness.” Raven turned to Fluttershy and used her magic to carry Fluttershy to her bedchambers. 


“Wait for me!” Pinkie Pie squealed. “I’m coming, too! Fluttershy needs at least one of her friends with her. Besides, this story is waaaaaaaay too creepy and gross for my taste.” Pinkie Pie faced Raven with eager blue eyes. “Speaking of my taste, can we have those cupcakes and cake pops from the party? And the macarons, too? Please, please, please, Pretty Pinkie Pie please?”


“I’ll see what I can do, miss.” Raven answered. “After we can tend to your friend.”


“Wheeeeeeeeee!!!” Pinkie Pie exclaimed, hopping behind Raven as they exited the throne room.


“My immense apologies for scaring her so,” Luna sympathized. “Unlike my sister, I tend to jump to the shocking details without thinking about my subject’s emotional reactions.”


“It’s alright, Princess,” Twilight assured her. “I just hope Fluttershy will feel better real soon.”


“Raven and the hoofmaidens are sure to do their best to tend to her needs.” Princess Luna turned her head gravely back toward the stained glass window of Discordula. “I would not blame her for her fear... Discordula has always been a nightmare to all ponies, both literally and figuratively. He also had the power to invade a pony’s dream to put them under his spell and force them to do his deeds.” Princess Luna faced the ponies and Spike with royal dignity, moonlight casted down upon her regal appearance. “Which is the very reason that I, the Princess of the Night, am also the protector of dreams.”


Twilight Sparkle marveled at Princess Luna’s regality, feeling so proud to be responsible for Luna’s freedom from evil darkness. And being a new princess, Twilight knew that her royal purpose to spread the magic of friendship across Equestria had meaning for her and her friends. She wanted to protect them and her fellow subjects from harmful threat and wanted to learn more about this Discordula. 


“Celestia and I told Star Swirl the Bearded about Discordula threatening us in our dreams to either be rid of our royal duties or allow Equestria to suffer his chaotic consequences.” Princess Luna explained. Twilight Sparkle lit up at the name of her favorite unicorn idol.  “Star Swirl said that their was a possible spell that can allow alicorns to enter into a pony’s dream and decided that I should be the more esteemed choice for the task, thus allowing me to protect my subjects from nightmares. Whenever Discordula appeared in a pony’s dream, I would be there to stop him before he would do anything heinous to my subjects. 


"While I continued to carry out my duty as the protector of dreams, I began to learn more about this vampiric creature that haunted us only at night. His powers were useless during the daylight, which gave my sister supreme power and authority over him. Yet he willingly longed to be free of his evil dominion over all ponies, specifically mares.”


“But why just mares?” Twilight asked.


“Discordula had always taken a fancy to the fairer gender of our kind, because he believed us all to be vulnerable, lovely little toys that he wanted to play with and take blood from thereafter.”


“So what you’re telling us is that he thinks all mares...girls... are just clueless damsels in distress that he thinks he can just mess with?!” Rainbow Dash fumed.


“From what I remember of him over a thousand moons ago, I’m afraid so.” Princess Luna looked solemnly at Rainbow Dash. “I can agree with your anger, Miss Dash. For Discordula was the reason I was banished to the moon in the first place.”


“WHAAAAT?!!!!!” Everypony and Spike (except Rarity) exclaimed.


Princess Luna bowed her head in remorse, tears starting to well up in her eyes. “Yes, my little ponies. I thought I was strong enough to face Discordula on my own during the night, but he was cunning enough to find my weak spot: jealousy for my sister, the Princess of the Day, receiving all the praise and glory while I hid in her shadow. I was foolish enough to believe his lies that I completely forgot about the love and support me and Celie both held onto for each other; not just as the Royal Princesses of Equestria, but as sisters. Yet, I threw all of that away and believed Discordula with my black, tarnished soul.” Luna silently weeped as she reminisced that treacherous day that brought her to her fate of banishment, her fate of never returning to Equestria..... to her sister.


“.....Princess Luna....” Twilight slowly started. “.....I.....I-I didn’t know...”


“Princess...” Rainbow Dash said. “I swear to you, I will show that twisted jerk-wad nopony.... or whatever he is, should ever mess with one of our princesses, especially for an eternity in the moon, away from all of your family and friends!”


Princess Luna slowly faced Rainbow Dash through her tears, with a small smile. “Thank you, Rainbow Dash. I appreciate your concern and support, but after what you, all of you,” Luna gestured toward the rest of the ponies, “have done for me, I feel more confident that Princess Twilight Sparkle’s magic of friendship will help us through this dark time.”


Twilight blushed a little. “Maybe so, but even though I now know what my true destiny is as a princess, and the fact that the Tree of Harmony gave us the Rainbow Power, I still don’t want any of my friends to get hurt in the process.”


“That’s a bunch of hooey, Twilight,” Applejack exclaimed. “As long as all of us are together, our magic of friendship is strong enough to protect all of us and will save us all!”


“Straight up!” Rainbow Dash hoof-bumped with AJ. “Right, Rarity?”


Rarity was still gazing longingly at the stained glass Discordula figure, when she snapped her head back to her friends. “Mm, oh yes, of course! Hear, hear! (nervous chuckle)...” Spike was still concernedly eyeing Rarity, curious about her odd behavior...


“Your Highness!” A royal guard suddenly emerged from the doorway, galloping in the hallway towards Princess Luna. “It’s your sister! She....she’s badly wounded and needs medical assistance right away!”


All of the ponies started towards the door...except Rarity, who’s eyes were still glued on the stained glass window. Spike turned to Rarity and asked her why she wasn’t coming.


“Spikey-boo,” Rarity cooed. “Could you please take me to Fluttershy’s bedchamber? I want to make sure she’s taken care of... properly.”




Luna,Twilight, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash ran out in the courtyard, where a group of royal guards were gathered around in a circle. 
At the sight of Princess Luna, two of the guards cleared an entryway in the circle, revealing an unconscious Celestia lying on the ground, bruised from horn to hoof.


“SISTER!” Luna exclaimed. She galloped to Celestia and parted her multicolored mane from her face, her deep blue magic aura shining on her horn. 


Twilight trotted up beside Luna, sharing a worried look as she glanced at Celestia’s injuries. One huge bruise on her neck caught Twilight’s eye. Wait a minute... Twilight squinted at the wound and saw that it had two small punctured wounds with another huge punctured wound on top of the right one. “Princess Luna, Celestia’s bitten on the neck!”


Terror filled Luna’s eyes as she gazed at the bite mark. She firmly shut them and said through gritted teeth, “He did this to her... he has taken her as a bridesmaid.”


Twilight gaped at this statement. “Wait... a bridesmaid? Not as a bride?”


“If Discordula did take Celestia as his bride, she would’ve drank his blood,” Princess Luna explained. “But I have checked her lips and mouth with my magic senses, and not a trace of Discordula’s blood is anywhere to be found.” Luna gazed at Twilight and her friends with a knowledge that angered her. “Anymare who is a victim of Discordula’s bite on the neck becomes a bridesmaid for Discordula’s future bride. But, if the mare has been both bitten on the neck and has fed on Discordula’s blood... will be bequeathed as his bride-to-be, his princess.”


“Who would ever want to marry a monster like him?!!!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed.


“As I said before, Discordula has always taken a fancy to the fairer gender of ponies,” Princess Luna stated. “But in the end, the mare he intends to have as his princess is the  mare he adores the most.”


“Do you think he has fed on anypony else?” Twilight asked. 


“Maybe....if I only knew the poor souls who had to suffer under his thrall,” Princess Luna admitted. She sadly gazed back down at her older sister, feeling regret for her to go through with this torture. But her eyes shot back to the moon, her former extended home. “The sun has to come up, but my sweet sister is unable to stretch her wings.” She faced one of the royal guards. “Please send word to the Crystal Empire that Princess Cadance and Shining Armor’s assistance is needed in Canterlot.”


“Yes, Your Highness.”


“The rest of you,” she advised the remaining royal guards. “Please help me to direct Princess Celestia to the Royal Infirmary at once!”


All of the guards helped carry Princess Celestia, with Princess Luna and Twilight ahead of the group, Applejack and Rainbow Dash by both sides of the wounded princess. “As soon as we get her all settled in,” Luna whispered to Twilight, “I shall have no choice but to imprison her in a protective barrier, so she will not escape.”


“WHAT?” Twilight silently exclaimed. “But, Luna-”


“I do not wish for this either, Twilight Sparkle.” Luna firmly stated. “But after what she had to do to me for the sake of our subjects a thousand years ago, I understand now what I have to do for all of Equestria.”





Fluttershy’s eyes slowly opened, revealing a clear blue sky and the sound of birds singing sweetly to each other. She felt soft pink petals gently fall down on her face as she arose from her slumber. “Where am I?” Fluttershy wondered out loud, gently rubbing her eyes. When her sight cleared away from sleep, she silently gasped in awe when she realized she was in a secluded garden, abundant with pink tulips, white daisies, blue forget-me-nots, and lavender. A babbling brook made gentle music between small rocks in the distance.
Fluttershy cooed at the sight of this wondrous place of utopian nature. “Oh, this place is absolutely beautiful.” 


“It pales in comparison to your own angelic beauty...” a deep voice gently murmured. 


Fluttershy lightly gasped when she heard the voice come from her left. ‘That voice...’  She slowly turned to look up and saw Drake, leaning casually against the cherry blossom tree she was under, his face hidden in the shadows. Yet in the shade, she could sort of make out his facial features. His red eyes seemed to glow in a mesmerizing way, gazing down at her. His cutie mark of the dragon skull holding a rose between its jaws was terrifying, yet made her wonder how he inherited such a mark on both his flanks. His smile was crooked in a ‘bad boy’ kind of way.


Fluttershy blushed as she let a breeze gently blow a few of her pink locks in front of her face, her vulnerability showing underneath Drake’s gaze. 


“You are too precious for anypony’s eyes,” he murmured, slowly kneeling down in front of her.


“Oh.... t-thank you ever... so much,” Fluttershy nervously replied. “I...I don’t know if I really am precious at all.”


Drake gently parted her locks away from her face. “But you are, both inside and out.”  


“You’re too kind...to say that to me,” she quietly said, casting her eyes down to the ground.


“Mmmm....” his hoof gently traced the outline of her cheek downward, then lifted her chin so her gaze met with his. “The only thing that seems troubling to me about you... is why do you hide your pretty face from me? Not that I’m complaining about having to find you behind your lovely mane. Makes you so...uniquely fascinating.” He started to part the rest of her hair away from her face with such tender thoroughness that Fluttershy trembled underneath his touch, but she didn’t want this to end. 


Her eyes gently fluttered in anticipation when he stopped moving her hair out of the way, and started caressing her neck and chin with his...Fluttershy thought she felt claws rather than a hoof touching her, yet she still felt too mesmerized to even notice the oddity of this moment. She closed her eyes and responded with a soft sigh to his touch, never wanting him to stop.


“My sweet, little Fluttershy,” Drake murmured, his face leaning towards her face, she could feel his warm breath caress her neck. “I’ll take you with me...” Soft petals were dancing all around them as they made their way downward. “....to paradise and beyond.”


“Drake....”


“Fluttershy...”


“I....I....”


“Fluttershy...!”


“I...want...”


“Fluttershy, wake up your sleepy head! Rub your eyes, get out of bed! Ding-dong, we have some cakes and sweets to eat!!!”


“Miss Pie, compose yourself! Your friend has already been through enough as it already is for everypony else. Now, either stay and keep quiet or leave.”


“Normally, I would ask if either way I could have or bring my sweet goodies with me. But if it’s for the sake of being here for Fluttershy, no matter how hard the task, I shall be quiet starting....NOW!” And then all was quiet, except for the sound of Pinkie Pie munching on her cakes and sweets from the party.


Fluttershy quietly yawned and gently rubbed her eyes as she slowly rose from her sleep. As her eyes cleared away from sleep, she appeared to be in one of the bedchambers in the Canterlot castle. There were a few hoofmaidens in the room, placing lavender in a flower vase, tending to the bedcovers, and bringing Pinkie Pie samples of the desserts from the party. Raven facehoofed and Spike chuckled at Pinkie’s goofy attempts at stuffing cupcakes and macarons at the same time in her mouth. Rarity was at the window seat, gazing longingly out the window. She turned her gaze toward Fluttershy, with sudden elatedness. “Oh, sweetie! At last, you’re awake!” She flung her arms around Fluttershy in a joyful embrace. “We were really worried about you!”


“FLUBBERDRY!” Pinkie Pie swallowed the cake and macarons full down her throat. She joined Fluttershy and Rarity in bounce. “You’re awake, you’re awake, you’re awake-”


“PINKIE!” Everyone except Fluttershy shouted.


Fluttershy giggled. “Thank you for checking up on me, girls. I’m all better now.”


“Oh, good.” Rarity lowered her voice to Fluttershy. “Did you have a lovely, little nap?”


“Oh...now that you mention it...” Fluttershy blushed and put a hoof over her heart. “I actually did have the most wonderful dream...” She sighed in memory of Drake. “Very wonderful.”


Rarity grinned, her eyes glinted a little red. “Indeed...”






In the corners of Canterlot, Derpy made her rounds with her mail. Even though the royal guards told everypony to remain in their homes and the fact that the sun should’ve been up by now, Derpy still remained true to her task as mail carrier pegasus. She couldn’t wait to get her payment for her loyal services, so she can buy herself some more muffins. 


As she stuffed some mail into a mailbox, she could’ve sworn that she was being followed. She turned around and looked all over with her crossed eyes. There seemed to be nopony anywhere in sight. She turned back to the mailbox and closed its top shut. 


But as she turned and was about to spread her wings for another delivery, a shadowy figure with yellow eyes appeared in front of her. 


Derpy stood stone-still with her mouth agape. “............Hi there, Mister Shadow!” she said cheerfully.


“You are an odd little pony, but quite unique,” the figure extended a claw out and put a trance on Derpy. “Your eyes need to be fixed.” And with that, he straightened her pupils together with a snap of his fingers. “Now look into my eyes and listen to my words, quirky-eyed filly. You shall be my loyal servant and carry out my orders, until a time that I  will release you.”


“Yes, master.... what orders shall I carry out for you?”


Discordula approached out of the shadows with a slow grin. “First things first.” 
> Come Morning Light
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

At the Royal Infirmary, Princess Luna sadly gazed at her wounded sister as the Royal Guards settled her in a queen-sized, hospitalized bed. Princess Celestia looked so solemn in her unconsciousness, her mane and tail colors looking all the more dismal and pale. Her battle scars were already tended to and healed immensely, but there was nothing that could be done about that horrid bite on her neck. Twilight Sparkle, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash also had worried looks on their faces, especially after what Twilight told AJ and RD about what Luna had to do for the sake of Equestria. 


“She can’t... there has to be another way to save Princess Celestia!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed.


“If Princess Luna thinks it’s best for Equestria,” Twilight replied, “then this is what must be done.”


“But... what about her sister?” Applejack asked.


Twilight’s eyes brimmed with tears, feeling deep pity for her beloved mentor. “I... I don’t know...” she weeped quietly.


Princess Luna stepped up towards the foot of the queen-sized bed that held Celestia, the Royal Guards clearing away. Luna’s horn started emitting her cobalt blue magic aura for the protective barrier spell, which was casted up in the air over Celestia to create a magical sphere all around her. As soon as the barrier engulfed her, Celestia  began to stir from her unconsciousness. She rose from her bed with a lavish, satisfied sigh as she slowly took in her surroundings. She faced Princess Luna, grinning lasciviously. “Oh, my sweet baby sister,” Celestia chuckled. “Just because you have me imprisoned in this bubble of a barrier still doesn’t make him disappear, especially when it’s still nighttime in Canterlot.” 


“Not for long, older sister,” Luna sassed back. “I have made sure that another alicorn princess will take your place to raise the sun most assuredly.”


Cadance, Twilight thought. That’s why Luna sent for her.


Celestia sighed. “Like it will make any difference now.” She raised her long forelegs toward the ceiling while flying in midair, her majestic wings spreading dramatically. “He will finally have all of Equestria at his hoof and spiky talon. And most of all.... he will finally be with the mare he intends to have as his future bride.”


“WHO IS THE MARE, SISTER?!” Princess Luna shouted, using her Royal Canterlot Voice. “WE MUST KNOW NOW!”


Celestia snickered. “When you mean ‘we’, do you mean the typical Royal ‘we’, or ‘we’ as in you and everypony else present in the room?”


“DON’T YOU JOKE AROUND WITH US, SISTER!” Luna boomed. “WE ALL MUST KNOW THE NAME OF THE INNOCENT SOUL DISCORDULA SEEKS TO BE HIS PRINCESS! SPEAK NOW!”


“Hmmm.....” Celestia put a hoof to her chin and smiled teasingly. “If you let me out of this boring barrier, maybe I’ll be a good girl and tell you?”


“Princess Luna! Don’t listen to her!” Applejack cut in. “She’s tauntin’ you and using this as an open threat against us for havin‘ to have her imprisoned! She might know, but she knows we need to know the name of the mare Discordula is after so she could escape!”


“Applejack...” Twilight was impressed with AJ’s intuitiveness.


“Very clever....” Celestia mused, her eyebrows raised. “...... for a mere hayseed.” Applejack glared at Celestia in anger for calling her that.


“Why, Applejack,” Celestia feigned with mock commandment. “Is that any way to look upon your ruler?”


Applejack looked at Celestia square in the eye. “I just know when somepony is not being honest, even you Princess.”


“ENOUGH!” Luna demanded, slamming her front hoof, which started a crackle of lightning outside. She then toned down her voice, but with firm authority. “Since you won’t tell us of Discordula’s schemes, you leave me no choice but to keep you contained in the barrier until we can track down the chaotic draconequus and put an end to his heinous crime of bloodlust, once and for all.” Luna gazed at her sister with quiet sadness. “And hopefully cure the bite on your neck and rid you free of his thrall.”


Celestia merely yawned. “Oh, do whatever you will, Luna. Because Discordula will break me free from this prison bubble you’ve put me in, no matter what kind of spells you shall wield up next. So just go and be on your merry way to greet the pathetic excuse of my replacement for raising the sun.” Celestia lowered eyes. “Because come nighttime, this will never be over. The sun can’t be up in the sky forever, Lulu.”


“That’s not up to you now, Celie.” 


When they went out of the room, Luna turned her attention to Twilight, AJ, and RD. “I need to stay here and take care of my subjects’ dreams, while it’s still nighttime. I shall send a few guards with you three to go to the train station.”


“But what about Discordula?” asked Twilight. “What if we come across him?”


“Star Swirl the Bearded said that the only way to prevent Discordula from biting would be special necklaces made from the roots of garlic and the tears from an alicorn.” Two guards were brought forward with a platinum chest that had the symbol of Celestia and Luna’s cutie marks embossed in gold and silver. Princess Luna opened the chest and brought out two necklaces made of thick silver threads that looked like they were made from somepony who had very fine silver hair. 


“These were made especially for me and Celestia, but I bequeath one of them unto you, Twilight Sparkle. It is most dangerous for Equestria’s youngest princess to be exposed outside of the castle grounds while Discordula still wanders during the nighttime hours.” 


Luna used her magic to put one of the necklaces around Twilight’s neck. “The other necklace is for Princess Cadance, so make sure you give it to her. After she raises the sun, I shall start making more of these for your brother and your friends.”


“Thank you, Princess.” Twilight surprised Luna by giving her a hug. “I really appreciate it. I would be more than willing to help give you my alicorn tears.”


“I could help you rustle up some of those garlic roots if you have any,” Applejack offered.  


“I’ll help with AJ on that,” Rainbow Dash replied. “Rarity, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie could help make the necklaces.” She winked at Princess Luna. “We’ll all pitch in to help ya, Princess.”


Princess Luna smiled in gratitude to the ponies who rescued her from her dark banishment. “Thank you, my little ponies.”






“I have just received news from Princess Luna,” Raven informed Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Fluttershy, and Spike. “She wanted me to inform you that Princess Twilight Sparkle will be gone a short while to fetch Princess Cadance and Shining Armor at the train station.”


“Did Princess Twilight said she needed my assistance?” Spike asked.


“Not that I’m well aware of,” Raven guessed. “But she will be accompanied by your two other friends and a few guards for her protection.”


“Oh, that’s good,” Spike sighed with relief. “I don’t know what I would do if anything terrible would happen to one of my best friends,” he said as he put a claw on Rarity. 


“Yes, simply tragic,” she said, pulling her shawl tighter and closer around her neck.


“Are you really sure you’re alright, Rarity?” Spike brought her close to the fireplace and used his fire breath to make flames, thinking she was still cold. “You’ve been wearing that shawl ever since we found you alone in the garden.”


“There is no need to worry your adorable, spiky head,” Rarity cooed. “When it’s morning, I’ll be right as rain.”


“Why is rain right?” Pinkie Pie asked. “I mean, doesn’t rain give us black clouds and lightning? That doesn’t sound right, that’s just downright scary!” 


“Oh, but I think rain is very helpful.” Fluttershy replied. “It helps give all the flowers and plants water to help them grow. And without rain, where would there be a rainbow?”


“Rainbow Dash could help with that little problem,” Pinkie Pie added with a wink. 


Fluttershy giggled. “True, but what about the plants and trees?”


Before Pinkie Pie could add another smart reply, a guard stepped in with a pegasus pony who had a mailbag wrapped around her. “This mailmare has a letter for Miss Fluttershy?” the guard asked.


“For....me?” Fluttershy timidly trotted to the guard and the mailmare. It was then that Fluttershy recognized the mailmare, especially a mare with such quirky eyes. “Oh, Derpy! It’s so nice to see such a friendly face. How are you?”


“Oh hi, Fluttershy!” Derpy wrapped Fluttershy in a friendly embrace. “Okey-dokey as an artichoke-y. I haven’t seen you since the Equestria Games.”


“I know,” Fluttershy paused, looking at Derpy’s mailbag. “It’s still dark outside. I thought mail was supposed to be delivered in the morning.”


“Well, yeah.” Derpy made a face that looked like she was hiding something. “But my mail routine has to be at an early time, especially since the sun should’ve been up a while ago.”  


“That is true...”


“Anyhooves, I have a letter for ya, Flutters.” Derpy pulled out an envelope that had a seal as black as night, engraved like a rose. Fluttershy wondered from the looks of the rose-like seal, it could be from some sort of Horticultural Reserve for Rare and Exotic Flowers, perhaps?


Rarity trotted over to get a peak of the envelope and recognized the seal immediately. “Spikey-boo, could you please whip up some of your famous triple-decker nut vanilla cream cookies for me and Fluttershy? I absolutely adore your delectable little delicacies, and Pinkie Pie seems to have eaten enough sweets from the party.”


“Hey!” Pinkie Pie exclaimed. “When it comes to me and sweets, you know I can never stop-”


“Of course, Rarity!” Spike hopped off excitedly to the door, Pinkie Pie hopping right behind him.


“All those sweets really put me in a mood for baking,” Pinkie said. “So I’ll come with you to the kitchen, Spike!”


“Uhhh...” Spike was a little unsure with Pinkie and her hyper antics, but he knew he could trust her when it came to baking sweets. “Sure, Pinkie. You can help me out.”


“Wheeee!” Pinkie Pie squealed. “Let’s go bake some super-duper, triple-decker, nut-crazy vanilla cream cookies!”


As soon as Spike hesitantly left the room with Pinkie bouncing merrily behind, Rarity beckoned for Fluttershy toward the window seat. 


“Come sit by me, darling! You can read your letter by the window.” She glanced towards Derpy and also invited her to come sit with them. Derpy happily obliged and mentioned to Rarity that she also had a letter.


It was from Fleur de Lis, informing that she would love to go shopping at Bridle Beauty Boutique in the afternoon with Rarity! Rarity practically squealed with delight at the news. 


Bridle Beauty Boutique was the most extravagant and favored boutiques in all of Equestria for brides-to-be, for they had the most glamorous gowns made of all luxurious fabrics from charmeuse and chiffon, to damask and taffeta. Every mare who’s any mare would just pay their lifetime supply of horseshoes to buy a dress from Bridle Beauty Boutique. Rarity thanked Derpy with gratitude... and Fluttershy thought she saw Rarity give a knowing wink to Derpy... Maybe it’s a surprise for somepony who’s already engaged?


“Oh, sweetie. Do forgive me,” Rarity apologized. “I got too caught up in the moment...anyway, who wrote to you?” 


Fluttershy looked down at her envelope. “I think it could be from some sort of Horticultural Reserve for Rare and Exotic Flowers, but I’m not so sure...”


“Well you’ll never know, precious, until you open it first. Allow me,” Rarity offered as she used her magic aura (her usual royal blue aura appeared to be a little more of a frosty blue) to open the seal and brought out a letter, which landed gracefully on Fluttershy’s lap. Fluttershy gently picked up the letter with her hooves and placed it close to the window so she could see it more clearly with the room’s light against the window’s nighttime display. 


Fluttershy meekly began to read:

Dearest Fluttershy,

I do so enjoyed dancing with you in the moonlit sky, for gazing at your lovely face emanating such bashful demeanor was the cherry on top of a most spectacular night with you. You, my dear, are truly a delight to be around with.
Yet I wish I could see you again soon for I do wonder, come morning light, if you care to join me by the bridge in the Canterlot Gardens by say, 1:00 ? My humblest apologies for being so forward. I would just love to witness and experience all of the wondrous, magnificent accommodations Canterlot has to offer. And I cannot think of anypony else more radiantly suitable than you, my dear.
I shall be by the bridge that is closest by the waterfall to await you. Until we meet again, dear one.

Yours,
Drake Dracoulis


Fluttershy’s cheeks felt warm as she finished reading the letter.


“My...” Rarity trilled, swooning gently on the window sill. “What a romantic stallion...”  


Fluttershy slowly exhaled and looked the name over again. Drake Dracoulis.... Drake.... I can’t believe he would write such lovely things to me, Fluttershy thought. And... he wants to see me again? She bowed her head in fear and shut her eyes.


“Fluttershy...?” Rarity lifted her head from her dramatic faint at the sound of Fluttershy’s small whimpers. “Sweetness, whatever is the matter?”


“I....” Fluttershy stammered. “I-I don’t know. I just feel so nervous, but I also kind of feel... happy that Drake would like to see me again.”


“Dearest, what you’re feeling is perfectly normal,” Rarity explained. “Especially when you have those sort of feelings for such a romantic stallion who wishes for your company... wait a moment...Drake? Is he the mystery stallion that you were about to introduce me to at the garden party?” Rarity asked.


Fluttershy slowly nodded.


“Oh, I wish I would’ve met him sooner....” Rarity cleared her throat. “But more importantly, it’s wonderful that this Drake would like to see you again, precious!” 


“I... I guess so,” Fluttershy quietly agreed. “It’s just that... I know I’ve met him before... and danced with him...” Rarity gasped in delight at that. 


“B-but I... when I first saw him and... was in his arms when I danced with him...” Fluttershy hugged herself. “I felt... so scared, I could feel my heart beating so fast... like I didn’t know if I would ever breathe again from being so close to him, that I... my heart couldn’t take it another second.” Her cheeks went aflame as she covered them with her hooves. “When I was so close to him, I... I couldn’t think of anything else. His eyes...” She closed her own eyes. “Those red eyes... it was like they could see me from the inside and... I felt so warm and-and anxious, never knowing what he was going to say or do next.”


“Wow, Flutters...” Derpy thoughtfully said. “Drake sounds like a charmer to me.”


“I agree, Derpy,” Rarity replied. “Fluttershy, how you described your feelings for him... those are the kind of feelings a mare usually feels when she meets a certain stallion that makes her happy. Tell me... did he say you were beautiful?”


“Well... I think so...”


“Did he chose to dance with you because he wanted to dance with you?”


“.....Maybe?”


“And most importantly-”


“Did he kiss you?!” Derpy cut in.


Fluttershy squealed and hid behind a pillow.


“No, that was not what I was about to ask,” Rarity glared at Derpy with annoyance. “Besides, that should never happen on a first date.” She turned back to Fluttershy. “What I was going to say was, did you enjoy dancing with Drake?”


“Oh...” Fluttershy thought back to when Drake promised her he would never abandon her and never let her go as he flew into the sky, holding her in his arms. She remembered how he described flowers as such precious, gentle little things as his forehead touched hers. She could see his eyes... those deep red eyes that seem to look into her soul... she felt so lightheaded and a little excited at the same time. “I... I did enjoy dancing with him...”


Rarity beamed. “See? That means you like him, darling! And it’s perfectly fine to feel those kind of emotions for him, because you enjoy being with him, he clearly enjoys being with you...” Rarity raised an eyebrow. “Which means that you should definitely go see him at, what did he say? 1:00?” She inhaled dramatically. “First thing tomorrow, we should make you look presentable and especially lovely....”


“Well, shouldn’t we have breakfast first?” Fluttershy asked.


“Oh, of course, of course.” Rarity went on and on about what kind of style Fluttershy’s mane should have and what accessory her mane should have along with it. But while Rarity went on about plans for tomorrow, she gazed out the window at the moon, thinking about her and Drake dancing in midair underneath it. She closed her eyes at the memory of being in his arms and gazing into those smoldering eyes of his. She sighed. And he wants to see me again... she blushed. Will he still like me...? I don’t know what will happen... a tiny smile crept up her lips. But it is pretty... exciting that I get to see him again...


“Just look at her,” Rarity whispered to Derpy. “She’s practically over the moon for him, it’s perfect.” She motioned for Derpy to follow her, so they could leave Fluttershy alone quietly while she slowly closed her eyes and one of the hoofmaidens carried her back to be bed. They sneaked out of her room, passing the guards as they prepared for Princess Cadance and Shining Armor’s arrival. Once they were gone, 


Rarity whispered. “Derpy, when your done with your mail rounds, you should meet up with me and Fleur de Lis at Bridle Beauty Boutique. I’m sure he would love us all to meet together.”


“I know he would,” Derpy agreed. “Too bad Celestia won’t be able to meet up with us.” 


“Yes, it is a pity,” Rarity disappointedly nodded. “But he is too clever to know that it would be rather questionable for the princess to be dillydallying with us during the daytime, don’t you think?”


“That is true...”


“But we must do what needs to be done, nonetheless....” Rarity slowly grinned. “Especially since he will have precious moments with his bride-to-be...”







Outside the window of Fluttershy’s bedchamber, Discordula peered in to see Fluttershy sleeping peacefully in her bed, while all the hoofmaidens continued to tend to her and the room. The hoofmaidens were tasty little morsels, but they could never compare to the beauteous little angel sleeping, her long pink locks spread out beneath her sweet head... her eyes closed, her long, pretty eyelashes guarding them and being a perfect distraction.... her adorable little nose... her tiny mouth parted, urging him to just come in, take her in his arms and....


Discordula groaned in frustration, knowing that he can’t enter in her dreams, now that Princess Luna was now on dream patrol. Not to mention the fact that he can’t enter inside the castle without anypony’s permission, and with Princess Celestia now imprisoned in some sort of protection barrier that Lulu whipped up...  


“(growls) Be patient...” Discordula told himself. “Everything will fall into place the way you planned...” he glanced back in the window, gazing at Fluttershy. “Come morning light, my love...” he murmured, stroking the outline of Fluttershy’s chin with the window glass. “... we shall meet again very soon. And after such lovely times spent with you,” he said with a tantalizing grin as Princess Cadance slowly raised the sun, “I shall make you my princess of chaos.” 

> He's Waiting For You
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

As Princess Cadance slowly raised the sun over Canterlot, Twilight Sparkle smiled with pride for her sister-in-law but sighed. So much for giving our Proclamation Speeches to all of Equestria. She then turned her attention to her big brother, Shining Armor, who was also beaming with pride for his beloved wife. At least my BBBFF and sister-in-law came all the way from the Crystal Empire to help us... Twilight just remembered something. “Hey, Shiny?” Twilight asked her brother.
“Yeah, Twilie?”


“What about the Crystal Empire? Without you and Cadance, how will the Crystal Ponies be safe from harm?”


“Well, before Cadance and I left for Canterlot, we wanted to make sure the Crystal Empire was under tight security,” Shining Armor explained. “So we left the care and protection of the Empire to our royal liaison, Flash Sentry.”


Twilight made a tiny girlish squeak, but quickly cleared her throat. “Fla-Flash Sentry? He-he’s your royal liaison now?”


Shining Armor curiously raised an eyebrow at his little sister, grinning. “Yeah... when he was first recruited to be one of our new Royal Guards, he kind of reminded me of you when you first applied for Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns: eager, astute, and very determined to achieve.”
Twilight blushed at the thought of her and Flash Sentry being alike in many ways.


“In fact, his communication skills and cooperation with both the delegates and the Royal Guards during our daily meetings were very impressive, which made him more acceptable for the job. However,” Shining Armor lowered his voice in a whisper. “If he wants to be the future husband of my baby sister, that’s a different story.” 


Twilight scoffed and roughly nudged her big brother in the shoulder, then Shining Armor gave his little sister a noogie. They both laughed and hugged each other with brother-sisterly love.    


As Cadance lightly landed and rested her wings alongside Luna, she delicately sighed in exasperation. “Goodness... that certainly was a new experience.”
“But you did it with such perfect finesse,” Twilight replied. “I remember when I had to do that after you, Celestia, and Luna transferred all your magic to me. I had to physically operate the motional equations of both the sun and moon’s orbital flight patterns.” She turned to Princess Luna. “Not that I wasn’t honored of doing such an esteemed task. It’s just that it was so much different than writing it on parchment, or laying it all out on blackboard.”


Princess Luna smiled. “That’s what Celestia thought on our very first day of lowering the moon and raising the sun. We never thought that we would actually carry out responsible deeds for our subjects, but Star Swirl was confident in our abilities as alicorns.” She gazed at both Twilight and Cadance. “You both must have felt this task quite overwhelming because you were not born as alicorns. Twilight Sparkle was born a unicorn and Cadance was born a pegasus. But now that you are alicorn princesses, your ability of flight and magic combined helps you raise the sun and rouse the moon, thus making you all the more powerful. Not to mention,” Luna added. “that they will be most efficient for dark situations like this to occur, so nopony shall suffer anymore.” She bowed her head in quiet sadness. 


Twilight and Cadance looked at each other in concern. “We’ll get your sister back, Luna.” Twilight assured her. “I don’t know how, but we’ll find a way.”


“There still must be some goodness in her,” Cadance replied. “The bite mark may have taken over her mind and body, but the heart still holds emotion and love.”
“But Cadance, how could you know that for sure?” Twilight asked.


Cadance turned to Twilight, her eyes reflecting tenderness. “Twilight, Auntie Celestia was my guardian angel in so many ways. She took me in, raised me as one of her own and whenever I felt doubtful, she would wrap her hooves around me and whisper, 'As long as you have love and compassion in your heart, you will remain one of the strongest princesses I know you are now.' I could hear her heart beating against her chest while I was still in her embrace; all my life, I have never heard such a strong heartbeat. I knew that a heart as strong as Auntie’s would never allow such darkness and hate.”


“She certainly didn’t show it after she was roused from her unconsciousness,” Luna grumbled. Twilight winced at the memory of Celestia taunting her friends in the Infirmary. “But you could be right, dear niece. A bite from that monstrous draconequus may take over the body and mind, but the heart is a muscle that holds an emotional love for its owner’s loved ones. I just wasn’t strong enough to use that advantage against him.... that night....” Luna shook her head in resilience. “But the past is the past, and I have learned from my mistakes. For now, we must find the innocent victims who have endured the bite of the vampiric fiend.”


“But, Auntie Luna,” Cadance cut in. “What about the necklaces that ward off Discordula?” She gingerly touched the silvery necklace wrapped around her neck. “You, Twilight, and myself are the only ones who can produce alicorn tears...” Cadance silently regretted herself for leaving out Celestia, but remembered she was under Discordula’s thrall. “..... willingly.”     


Shining Armor placed a hoof on his wife’s shoulder. “Cadance, you can help make the necklaces with Twilie and her friends after breakfast.” He turned to Princess Luna and saluted her. “A couple of my fellow guards and I will help track down the infected victims, Your Highness.” 


Princess Luna nodded her head in gratitude to Shining Armor. “Thank you, Captain of the Royal Guard. I accept your enlistment for this task. In the meantime,” Luna walked toward the balcony and looked down on all of Canterlot. “While sunlight still basks down on all of Equestria, we must still make haste with preparations for tonight. For it is that certain time of day that Discordula will be at his most strongest to shed blood and wreak havoc on us all.” Luna slowly turned her head back towards the young royal trio, and declared, “But fear not, young ones of our royal kin. For I, the Princess of the Night, shall not stop until my sister and anypony else who has been infected will be released from that fiend’s thrall!”







“Um.... Rarity?” Fluttershy quietly asked, with her eyes closed. “I know you mean well in helping me get ready and I appreciate it ever so much, but...” She slowly opened one eye to see her reflection in the mirror. “...I’m not so sure if this is really necessary.” She had green splotches of facial cream on her cheeks, forehead, chin, and nose. She was in her white bathrobe with purple lining, her tail was in hair curlers with a turquoise green ribbon tied around at the end, and her mane was wrapped up in a white towel, turban-style. 


“Oh nonsense, Fluttershy,” Rarity replied as she brought out a pink washcloth with her unicorn magic to soak it in water and began to gently, but firmly, wash off all the facial cream on Fluttershy’s face. “When my dearest, most loveliest friend is being courted upon by a charming stallion, this practically is necessary!” While she finished scrubbing Fluttershy’s little nose, to which Fluttershy quietly sneezed from, Rarity turned to one of the hoofmaidens who were assisting her. “Would you please fetch me that golden bottle I left by her nightstand?” Rarity gently shook Fluttershy’s towel against her head before taking it off. “Really darling, this is so exciting! I’m sure you’ll have such a wonderful time with this... Drake.” Rarity purred his name while she multi-tasked with her unicorn magic by both brushing and blow-drying Fluttershy’s mane. “With a name like that, I’ll bet he’s sinfully handsome...”


Fluttershy blushed with quiet demure. “H-he is... pretty handsome...” While Rarity continued to brush Fluttershy’s hair, Fluttershy closed her eyes in memory of gazing at Drake’s dapper facial features in the moonlight. His smile as he gazed into her eyes.... his own eyes a sinful dark red... Fluttershy felt her face get warm from just thinking about him. She shook away the thought and cleared her throat, while Rarity started styling the edges of her long pink locks with a curling iron. “B-but he also seemed so sweet and gentle, and he said that he loved nature and flowers... like me.”


“Really?” Rarity thanked the hoofmaiden who brought the golden-colored perfume bottle and put it to the side. “Well I must say, that you are rather fortunate enough to capture the attention of a stallion who shares the same interests... the same passions that captures both of your hearts.” As she put away the curling iron, Rarity took out a tube of mascara and gently brushed Fluttershy’s eyelashes. 


“Goodness...” Fluttershy replied in a whisper. “Do you really think so?” 


“If there’s one thing I know about stallions is that the ones who have the same tastes are the ones that are worth keeping.” After she was done, Rarity brought forth the golden-colored perfume bottle. Fluttershy recognized the shape and color of that perfume bottle from one of her spa-treatment/shopping trips with Rarity. 


“Honeysuckle Heaven?” Fluttershy’s mouth turned upward in an adorable little smile. “That’s my most favorite perfume in all of Equestria. Rarity, you know me too well.”


“I always aim to please,” Rarity replied with a flourish as she turned Fluttershy in her direction to lightly squirt the perfume against her neck and chest. “And now, for the piece de resistance!” Rarity took out a lovely white rose barrette and gracefully placed it in Fluttershy’s hair by her ear. “Besides, if you love it, Drake will love it as well. And since you both love flowers, why not smell like a flower? Not to mention...” She turned Fluttershy’s chair back to the mirror to gaze at her reflection. “..... look like a flower.”


Fluttershy’s hair was both wavy and curly, just mid-length of her locks. Her eyelashes looked longer than before, bringing out the color of her aqua green eyes and making them pop out a little more. The white rose barrette looked lovely in her hair, with its ivory detail glistening and its accompanied leaf a charming spring green. “It will be impossible for Drake to resist you, Fluttershy. You look exquisite, darling.” 
Fluttershy blushed shyly at her reflection. “Do you really think he’ll like how I look?”


“Precious, the word ‘like’ couldn’t possibly excel on how he’ll react when he takes one mere glance of you. He’ll adore you, trust me.” Rarity slowly took off the hair curlers in Fluttershy’s tail and fussed a little with the mid-length waves. “I mean, he did take an interest in you last night at the garden party, did he not?”
“Well... y-yes...”


“And now he wants to accompany you on a most gorgeous day... in the daylight...” Rarity winced at the end of her sentence as she finished primping Fluttershy’s tail.


Fluttershy continued to reminisce on what occurred last night: her first encounter with Drake after South Pole denied a dance with her ever so suddenly... being held in Drake’s arms as they flew in the moonlight.... and then the unexplainable weather that disrupted the mane event, even though Fluttershy was grateful that she didn’t have to make her Proclamation speech..... 


But then she also remembered that creature in the stained-glass window who looked fearsome and strangely magnificent at the same time. Fluttershy knew there were many magical creatures in Equestria that she may have never come across yet, but she was still surprised that.... What did Princess Luna call him?.... Discordula... could be lurking somewhere in Canterlot....


“Drinking the blood of innocent virgin mares...!” Fluttershy squeaked her thoughts out loud.
Rarity’s eyes glinted red. “What... did you say, sweetie?”


Fluttershy covered her mouth in embarrassment and fear. “Oh my....! I can’t believe I forgot about the creature that is threatening all of Equestria! He could be anywhere, Rarity! Scaring innocent ponies, then drinking their blood in...” she gulped. “...dark alleyways...!” She squealed in fright and hid herself in her bathrobe like it was a tent. “Oh, I can’t go out there! I want to stay inside the castle, underneath the bed covers, with my teddy bear!”


“Fluttershy, it’s one thing to have a case of nerves for a stallion,” Rarity gently, but firmly replied to a bathrobe-tented Fluttershy. “But being worried over a creature that doesn’t come out until nighttime?”


Fluttershy slowly peeked out. “Wh-what? H-how do you know that?”


“Oh, word spreads in the castle like wildfire,” Rarity added sheepishly with a wave of her  pale white hoof. “But more importantly, Princess Luna advised all the Royal Guards that this creature won’t come out until nighttime. So that means you’ll be safe as a kitten on your date with Drake.”


“Really?” Fluttershy let out a quiet sigh of relief. “Well, if Princess Luna says it’s okay to go out during the daytime....” She glanced back in the mirror, her bathrobe slowly pooling beneath her. And as long as I can get back before sunset.... I guess I can go see Drake after all.  She thought with a little smile. But it faded quickly when she saw the top of her mane look a little fuzzy from hiding in her bathrobe and her rose barrette was a tad lopsided by her ear, a loose tendril of pink hair trailing down. “I’m so sorry, Rarity. I got so scared, and now I ruined your makeover for me.” 


“Oh it’s alright, sweetness. As I said before, it’s just a natural case of nerves. But that simply cannot get in the way of your appearance.” Rarity replied with a sigh.  She brushed/smoothed away the frizz in Fluttershy’s hair and arranged her hair clip. “Fortunately, your eyes still look perfect and I can barely see a smudge on you. Just a little more sprucing up, and you will be lovelier than a gardenia in bloom.”


“Thank you so much, Rarity. For giving me a wonderful makeover.... and for putting up with me when I get so nervous about these things.” 
“Oh sweetie, think nothing of it. And.... je suis fini!” Rarity exclaimed as she neatly put a loose lock of pink hair back into place. She looked over her work on Fluttershy’s appearance with a satisfied smile. “Perfect. Now Spike and Pinkie Pie should be coming back anytime soon with breakfast for us, so we’ll just have a little something to nibble on.”
“We’re going to have cookies for breakfast?”
“I don’t think it will really matter, as long as we have something to eat.”
“I guess... but what about Twilight and-”
“Oh, they’re already mad at work, getting everything ready for tonight; protecting the castle and all the rest of Canterlot from the... creature of darkness,” Rarity replied wistfully. 


Fluttershy wasn’t sure why Rarity responded like that for a creature like Discordula. Yes, he may look magnificent, but he’s also a draconequus. Which means he could be part dragon, and Fluttershy really didn’t like dragons... except when they’re babies like Spike. But given the thought that he could pop out anywhere at night gave her chills. “Shouldn’t we help them out?”
“NO! I mean...” Rarity scrunched her face up for a few seconds and then relaxed her face. “No, dear. Twilight and the others can handle things well enough on their own, and they have the royal guards, the hoofmaidens, and anypony else in the castle that will help. I’m sure they’ll be too busy to even know we’ll be gone.”
“Well, I suppose...”


“We’re baaaack!!” Pinkie Pie sang, carrying her white box tray with the tray’s baby blue strap around her neck and a sleepy Spike on her back. The box tray was filled with Spike’s triple-decker vanilla-nut cookies, with some juice boxes at the side. “Lil’ Spike started getting all snoozy while we had to mix the batter.” Pinkie explained as she took off the strap connected to her box tray and placed it on a nearby table. “Luckily, I swooped in to save the cookie mix before he dove in face-first. The egg-beater probably lulled him to sleep.”


“Oh, poor thing,” Fluttershy cooed as she quietly flew to Spike’s aid. “It must’ve been from staying up until sunrise.” She laid Spike gently in the bed and pulled the covers over his shoulders. “He should’ve went to bed rather than bake cookies for us.”


Rarity bit her lip. “Oh, dear. I should’ve thought about Spikey’s bedtime. I simply must leave him a jewel to snack on for later.” She opened one of her many suitcases and brought out a sparkling sapphire. She placed it on the nightstand nearest to Spike, then turned her attention to the clock, which read 11:30. She silently gasped.  “Um...” She nervously turned her attention to Pinkie Pie. “Pinkie, thank you kindly for fetching us such a darling assortment of morning sustenance. Fluttershy and I are going out to visit some... friends in Canterlot... just to clear our heads from last night’s little fiasco,” Rarity nervously chuckled.


“Oh, it makes me so happy that you guys are feeling so much better.” Pinkie Pie exclaimed with jovial delight. “I’m also glad that I brought my ‘Get Well Soon’ balloons...” Pinkie disappeared for a millisecond and came back with a ton of balloons in her pink hoof that had Get Well Soon written across them. “... in case of Get Well Soon balloons emergency.” 


“.... yes darling, thank you. Very good...” Rarity awkwardly looked away, then faced Fluttershy. “We’re just going to have a quick little nosh and then we’ll be on our way.” 
Fluttershy let out a quiet gasp. “Oh my... we have to go so soon?” She could feel her heart beating like butterflies, as if her cutie mark of the three butterflies on both of her flanks flew up into her chest, fluttering all around. But then she slowly breathed in and out, trying to calm herself down. You’ll be fine, Fluttershy. Everything will be just fine. 
“Well dig in, girls!” Pinkie Pie said, breaking Fluttershy from her thoughts. “There’s plenty of cookies to go around.”


“Don’t mind if we do, dear,” Rarity replied, while placing a few equal amounts of cookies on two plates for her and Fluttershy. “Let’s just make sure we have extra napkins.” Rarity used her unicorn magic to bring a box of tissues forward. “We must look presentable for our... special engagement.” She winked at Fluttershy. “Right, darling?”
Fluttershy meekly smiled as she took out an apple juice-box from Pinkie’s tray. “R-right... ” she sighed.
Rarity glanced at Pinkie Pie with caution, formulating a plan on how she and Fluttershy would be able to make their way out of the castle without Twilight and the others interfering. “Pinkie?” Rarity asked. She lowered her voice in a whisper to Pinkie Pie, so Fluttershy couldn’t hear. “I have a little favor to ask of you, but you must first Pinkie Promise not to tell anypony else about this...” 









“I wonder how Fluttershy is doing, now that the sun’s up,” Rainbow Dash mused. She and Applejack were out in the hallway, waiting for Twilight, the Princesses, and Shining Armor to finish up their plans for tonight in the throne room.
“Well thankfully, Rarity and Pinkie Pie are looking out for her,” Applejack mentioned. “But I worry too on account of how the lil’ darling’s feeling. As soon as Twilight and the Princesses are done roundin‘ everything up, we should -”


The sound of opening doors interrupted Applejack. Twilight came out of the throne room, with her brother and the Princesses trailing behind her.
“So, what’s the skinny?” asked Rainbow Dash.
“We don’t know who else was bitten,” Sining Armor replied. “ But me and a couple of my recruited stallions will be scouting all over Canterlot to find and bring the bitten victims back here so we’ll have them under quarantined care and protection.”
Twilight sighed. “We’ll have no other choice for them if they’re going to refuse our offer and be restless about it. The sooner we find them, the better for all of Equestria.”


“But we believe that the victims‘ hearts are not infected by the bite,” Cadance explained. “If we can remind them about the love they have for their families and friends, there may be a chance that we could save them from Discordula’s thrall and cure the bite marks.”


“The citizens of Canterlot must be well aware of all this immediately.” Princess Luna acknowledged. “I must inform the Royal Guards to alert the citizens to stay secure and indoors during nighttime hours. Everypony must have garlic strung around their doorways to their homes, to prevent Discordula’s entryway.”
“Just like the necklaces.” Rainbow Dash pointed out.


“Precisely,” Princess Luna said. “Garlic is one of the few things to prevent that monster. We don’t want anymore ponies to suffer like Celestia.” Luna closed her eyes for a moment and opened them with a look of fear for a grave knowledge that she was about to tell. “But I fear for the bitten victims... because if Discordula has the mare he intends to have as his bride to himself and receives a first kiss from her, the bridesmaids will become stronger and unstoppable.”


“But, that means... Princess Celestia...” Applejack started.
“Yes, Applejack,” Twilight said quietly. “The barrier that Princess Luna created to imprison Celestia will be unpreventable for her to be kept contained.”


“What the flying pegasus feathers does that even mean?” Rainbow Dash asked.
Applejack sighed in silent frustration. “It means that Princess Celestia will be strong enough to break free from her barrier if Discordula kisses the mare he wants as his bride, Rainbow.”


“Ohhh....” Rainbow Dash started laughing. “Well, that shouldn’t be anything to worry about. Like any mare would want to lock lips with some sick, twisted freak show like him!” Rainbow folded her hooves at the back of her head. “Besides, now that it’s morning we’ll be able to get ready to protect Canterlot from him tonight. That creep won’t stand a chance.”
“I hope so, Rainbow,” Twilight replied. “We should find the others and inform them immediately-”
“GOOD MORNING!!!!!!!!!”


“Huh?” Twilight turned her attention to the sound of the sudden outburst. 
Pinkie Pie was on bended knees, her hooves spread out in presentation with a huge smile on her face. She brought out a cannon that looked bigger and different from her original party cannon, aimed it inside the throne room and fired.


Twilight gasped. “Pinkie, what are you-?” Before she could say another word, Twilight saw a huge folded table with a white tablecloth spring forward out of Pinkie’s cannon  onto the long rug in the middle of the throne room and unfold itself. A few inflatable chairs, plates, silverware, and a teapot with matching teacups followed suit and landed neatly in their rightful place. Oatmeal cakes drizzled in honey were piled on each of the plates.


“We didn’t have any breakfast to eat and it’s almost 12:00!” Pinkie’s expression started to look grim and serious, her eyes giving a dark faraway glare that looked very threatening. “And you do NOT want to see me when I have no breakfast before 12:00.” 
Twilight was a little scared of acknowledging this side of Pinkie, but was still concerned for other pressing matters. “Pinkie, please-”


“Ooh, ooh, ooh! Wait, wait, wait!” Pinkie’s bubbly expression sprang back to life as she fired towards the head of the table and three big inflatable red chairs appeared. “Three seats most suitable for three Princesses! We should really start filling all of our tummies up to the brim before-”
Twilight groaned and face-hoofed herself. “PINKIE!!!!!” She sheepishly gave an apologetic smile to Princess Luna, her sister-in-law and brother and shamefully turned away. 


Luna smiled and placed a silver-clad hoof on Twilight’s shoulder. “Most excellent Royal Canterlot Voice, Princess Twilight,” she whispered. Twilight blushed in gratitude. “But Miss Pie is right. We should heed our appetites and break our fast, for we must have our energy and strength for the task at hoof that awaits us.” She turned to Pinkie Pie. “Thank you, Miss Pie. We are very grateful that you have prepared us a most very gracious morning meal.” She bowed.


“Sure thing, Your Majesty,” Pinkie bowed back with a cheerful smile. “Come on, everypony! Soup’s on!” 


As everypony took their seats, Rainbow Dash asked, “Wow, Pinkie. I knew your party cannon could shoot confetti and balloons, but folded tables and inflatable chairs?”


“Oh, this isn’t my original party cannon,” Pinkie explained, gesturing towards the cannon. “This is my brunch party cannon! I have many different types of party cannons: there’s my tea party cannon, my clambake party cannon, my baby shower party cannon, my Nightmare Night cannon, my Hearth’s Warming Eve cannon, my Hearts and Hooves cannon...”







Little did everypony know, as Pinkie Pie went on about her different types of party cannons, Rarity took a quick peek behind the doorway to make sure nopony was looking in her direction. She wore a black hooded cloak to keep herself well hidden. Fluttershy was behind her, waiting patiently for Rarity to say if the coast was clear. 


Rarity then turned to Fluttershy. “Alright, darling,” she whispered. “Stay close to me and make sure you’re not seen. We don’t want to disturb them.”
“Oh... okay,” Fluttershy whispered back as the ponies laughed at Pinkie Pie’s silly tricks with her brunch party cannon, shooting paper flowers for decorations on the table. “But... it doesn’t sound like they’re busy right now.” 


“Well... they were very busy making plans while we were having our breakfast. And now they need to eat for the preparations they need to make for tonight.” Rarity turned and peered in the throne room with leering eyes. “So we simply must not disturb them with the aggravating knowledge of us going out, visiting friends...” she turned back to Fluttershy with a wink and a smile. “... well for you, you’ll be having one charming male companion.” Fluttershy blushed and bowed her head in demure. 


Rarity turned to check if Pinkie had everyponies’ attention. Pinkie was now stuffing her face full of oatmeal cakes and shot some honey in her mouth.
“Geez, Pinkie. Where do you put it all?” Rainbow Dash asked.
“I have to be honest with y’all,” Applejack said.
“Like you even have a chance to not be honest,” Rainbow muttered with a smirk. 


“But I know exactly how Pinkie feels when it comes to me and apple fritters, ever since I was a little filly...” And so Applejack started to tell the story back when she was a mere apple seed; of how she was found underneath the table, her face covered in applesauce and crumbs when all of the apple fritters “mysteriously” disappeared.
Rarity motioned to Fluttershy that the coast was clear and they both started to sneak quietly to the other side of the doorway. Then they turned a corner and cantered down the staircase in the castle’s main entryway. 


“Phew, we made it,” Rarity sighed as they both stepped out of the castle entryway. “Finally, we can meet up with Fleur de Lis and Derpy. And then...” Rarity turned to Fluttershy with gleaming eyes. “...we’ll take you to the bridge to meet with Drake.”


“Oh... okay,” Fluttershy said with a blush. Fluttershy still felt very nervous about not knowing the outcome of being alone with a stallion, but she was very excited nevertheless. There was just something about Drake that made her heart feel all aflutter.








Rarity and Fluttershy made it to the glamorous Bridle Beauty Boutique shop, where they spotted Fleur de Lis and Derpy, waiting outside of the entryway. Fleur de Lis was apparently wearing a black hooded cloak, just like Rarity. Must be a new trend this season. Fluttershy thought.
“Oh, Rarity!” Fleur de Lis waved in greeting. “So lovely to see you, dear.”
“Likewise, Fleur.” Rarity replied, as they both gave air kisses to each other.
“Hey, Fluttershy!” Derpy gave Fluttershy a friendly hug. “Glad you made it, pal!”
“Oh thank you, Derpy,” Fluttershy said with a tiny smile. “It’s such a beautiful day out today, don’t you think?”


Rarity and Fleur de Lis winced and pulled their hoods tighter over their heads from the shining sun. “Yes, delightful...” Fleur de Lis murmured. She then turned to Fluttershy with a polite smile. “...so, you must be Fluttershy.”
“Oh, well... um... yes?” Fluttershy meekly replied. 
“Yes, Derpy told me you were coming as well. Enchante, cherie.” Fleur de Lis leaned down to Fluttershy’s height to give her air kisses while Fluttershy bashfully accepted them. “Oh... m-merci... beaucoup...” Fluttershy replied.
“Ah, parlez-vous francias?” Fleur de Lis asked.
“Umm... un peu...” Fluttershy answered with a sheepish smile.


“Oh, what a darling little petite she is!” Fleur de Lis then turned to Rarity and whispered something in her ear, which made Rarity nod in agreement. “You know...” Fleur de Lis started. “Derpy also told me that you have a date with a certain charming beau, are you not?”
“Oh... um... y-yes?”
“And that you should meet him at the bridge by the waterfall, oui?”
“O-oui...” Fluttershy squeaked. 
“At 1:00, non?”
“No... oh, I mean, yes... yes.”


“Hey,” Derpy cut in. “Before you start buttering her up like a blueberry yogurt muffin, isn’t it already three minutes to 1:00?”
Rarity gasped. “Three minutes already?!!” She turned to Fluttershy and pushed her ahead. “Oh my dear, we should not keep Drake waiting! We simply must get you to the bridge, tout suite!”
“Could’ve said it better myself, but Rarity’s right,” Fleur de Lis replied. “Derpy and I shall accompany you. For once, our bridal shopping can be put on hold for the possibility of l’amour.” Fluttershy gulped at that last word.
“Ooooh this is so exciting, Flutters!” Derpy exclaimed. “You’re finally gonna see this Drake guy and be all hearts and hooves with him!”
Fluttershy let out a frightened whimper and hid her face among her pink mane. 
“Oh, darling. You’ll be just fine.” Rarity assured her. “It’s not like he’s going to bite you.”
And at the same time, Rarity, Derpy, and Fleur de Lis gave each other a knowing smile. 

Yet...







Underneath the secluded willow tree that was by the foot of the bridge, a dark pony figure waited. It was almost 1:00, and there was still no sign of her. The anticipation to see her sweet little face was more than he could bear, but he still held firm to his patience. After all, if patience is a virtue, that would probably be the only virtuous thing he would ever commit to. But then again, Fluttershy’s beauty, kindness and compassion made her the only virtuous thing that he could ever want in his grasp.... All the more reason why I want her as my bride... he thought as he closed his eyes.
His thoughts were interrupted by the sound of Rarity’s voice in his head. She’s waiting for you, my lord. 
He opened his eyes and immediately directed his attention toward the bridge when his jaw dropped the moment he saw her.... at the top of the bridge, she was an angel descended from heaven, her pretty pink hair sparkling in the sunlight and she wore a green bow that was wrapped around her tail.... she was definitely the spitting image of Posey. 
Drake slowly grinned, his eyes glinting yellow. “At last,” he chuckled. “My princess awaits....”