When Rarity is in a pickle, only one alicorn to get her out of it.
Having friends is great. But when you need to trust someone, you have to find the smartest and caring of them all. Twilight is the answer, and Rarity is going to do everything she can to face the problems coming her way.
I sat silently drinking my tea at 2 am, trying to think of a new design of a customer. Never would have imagined that it was my last time drinking peacefully. It all happened very sudden, there I was, when out of nowhere came police ponies. They all gathered around me, with hoofcuffs. I struggled to keep them of me, it was no use, but I wasn't going to give up that easily. I was confused, I didn't know the reason they had me like this. I don't think I ever did something wrong... or did I. That's when one of the police ponies spoke towards me.
"Excuse me miss, but could you stay still for a moment? It will be quick,we promise" he said. It will be quick? but I don't understand, what did I do?
"I... don't... know ... what I...did wrong!" I shouted, my voice raspy by the struggling. Those words brought them to a stop, they looked at each other for a moment, before addressing me.
"Don't try to deny it lady! We know you did it, you stole Sapphire Shores's one of a kind diamond outfit!" one of them shouted to me. Did I just hear what I think I heard? How could I, THE Rarity do something like that.
"I'm afraid you are mistaken. I would never do something like that, especially to Sapphire Shores" I said, and I was speaking the truth.
"Miss, if you would just admit it, we would go easy on you. Only 8 years to go and you'll be out before you know it" a pony with a red mane spoke up.
"WHAT?!" I said shocked." Only 8 years! Are you out of your mind? I am not, I repeat, NOT going to prison for 8 years for something I didn't do!" I shouted on the top of my lungs. 8 years was a lifetime for me, I had a life, and apparently they didn't.
"Please watch your tone" one of them said. I inhaled and exhaled slowly, calming myself before replying.
"Alright, since you don't believe me, I guess I going to have to-HHAYA"Ohh no, now I've done it. How could I've been so foolish? I shouldn't have done that. This will definitely give me, at least 1 more year in prison. They all struggled to get up, but perhaps this would buy me some time. I ran out of Carousel Boutique, looking for somewhere to hide while they came out looking for me. Just as I was turning on the corner, I saw chasing me, much closer than I had expected. Anypony would have expected everypony sleeping, but with all the commotion at the middle of the night, it's hard to sleep. At last I lost them, hiding under some bushes, I found myself in front of Ponyville library.Yes, Twilight would understand, right? With all the magic I had, I had learned a few things from Twilight, teleporting. I concentrated long enough for me to appear in front of Twilight's bed. Her mane was all over her face, with a few strands resting on her mouth, which was drooling.Eww. Suddenly, I heard a snore at the side of her bed. I peeked over to her right, to find a resting Spike, with a smile on his face. He was so cute when he was sleeping, the way his tail twitched and the way his face looked when dreaming. But I had no time to look at Spike, I had bigger problems. Slowly,I began to shake Twilight. Oh Celestia, she was a heavy sleeper.
"TWILIGHT!" I screamed. She immediately widened her eyes to see me in her room. I didn't notice Spike waking up, until I saw him stare at me with an annoyed look, and soon change it to a confused manner.
"Rarity? Do you know what time it is?" Twilight asked with an annoyed look.
"Twilight, I'm terribly sorry to wake you at this hour, but I have a HUGE problem" I said.
"And you couldn't wait until tomorrow to tell me?" she asked yawning. Well, here it goes.
"I-I've been accused of stealing Sapphire Shores's diamond outfit. Do you know how rare that outfit is? I don't think I could afford it. Anyway, police came to my house and almost hoofcuffed me. The started to tell me that I was responsible for it a-and I did some Kung Fu on them. I ran all the way here to hide from them. P-please Twilight, you have to help m-me!" I said, breaking down before both of them. Out of the corner of my eye, I could see them exchange looks and stare at the ground to see me openly sob.
"Look Rarity, I don't know how to help you. But all do anything I can to get you out of it" Twilight said. I looked up, to wrap her in a hug.
"Oh, thankyouthankyouthankyou Twilight, I don't know what I'd do without you!" I said with a happy jump. I wasn't going Twilight down, that was for sure. Just as I was happy I could stay here, we all heard a knock at the door. The three of us exchanged worried looks, before Twilight went downstairs to answer the door. I carefully followed her and hid under a plant she had near her door. There in white and blue suit stood four ponies, with annoyed looks.
"Princess Twilight, we have come here to inform you that there is a criminal on the loose, for your safety we would recommend magic proofing your library. You know, for safety. If you have seen this pony, please contact us" the one with the red mane said. From afar I could see the silhouette of my body. I couldn't see my face, but I was sure I was smiling in the picture the showed Twilight.
"I will, goodnight" she said.
"Please do, have a good night Princess" they said in unison. Twilight shut the door and looked at the plant for me to come out.
"Wow, this is worst than I thought, they'll show your picture around town" she said quietly.
"Yes, I know. But I assure you Twilight, I had nothing to do with this" I said. She smiled and looked at me with truth in her eyes.
"Don't worry Rarity, I believe you" Twilight said. We heard hoofsteps from the stairs, to see a smiling Spike.
"And I do too" Spike said.Then, something came to me, if I was going to stay here, I had to cover my identity. I hadn't give this much thought, but it seemed this was the right time.
"These ponies will come back Twilight, I just know it. So... I have to change my identity. I can't risk coming out to town like this" I said with a worried look.
"Yeah, you're right, we'll have to make you look different" she said in a wondering tone. I quickly checked over myself to see what I could do to make me different, yet fashionable.
"So are you in?" I asked. I looked expectantly at them, to find smiles.
"I'm in" Spike said without hesitation. I gave him a kiss on the cheek and a hug, making him lean over and fall with a smile on his face. I looked at Twilight and she nodded.
"I'm in, Rarity" she said.
"No, Almond. Almond Crisp" I responded with a smile.
"Almond? Are you serious?" Spike asked incredulously. Yes the name did come out randomly, but that came with the pony I was thinking of.
"Well I was thinking of Pinkie Pie, all our friends really" I said. Twilight, who seemed to be thinking spoke up.
"What about them?" she asked.
"I can't tell them about my new identity" I said. Twilight and Spike looked at me like I had lost my mind.
"Why not? Don't you trust them?" Twilight asked. I did trust them, but this was going to complicate things even more. If I told them, the police will come to them. Even worse, Applejack couldn't lie, and it would probably be my doom.
"Of course I trust them! It's just...things could get difficult for us and you would most likely ruin your reputation. It'll be news for everypony, a princess helping a criminal. I couldn't do that to you" I said. Twilight seemed to consider this, before answering.
"Yeah, alright then. Should we get started?" she said grinning. I nodded and prepared for my make over. Twilight lead me to her bathroom, it wasn't so bad.She sat me in a small chair and I could see her look closely at my mane for a moment.
"Okay, so first thing's first. What color would you want your mane to be?" she asked. Anything,but green I thought. But perhaps, a shade of gold with rosy highlights would do the trick.
"Err...how about gold with pink highlights" I simply said. With her magic, she began to wrap my mane in a pink aura. I could feel the sensation of liquids all over my head, until she stopped to look at me from the mirror. I couldn't see my face, since I was facing her, and I had my back to the mirror. She smiled in approval and looked at me.
"There, now we have to change your mane style, so I'll do the best I can to make it fashionable for you." She knew me so well. I winced when she started to pull a few strands. I could see, small little portions of mane falling to the ground. I could see she was sweating, trying to make it perfect. Once she was done, she put a emerald clip on top of my mane.
"Okay, what next?" I asked.
"You're looking good so far, now how about I change your coat color? " I took a moment of hesitation.
"Alright, I want...a creamy mint" I answered.
"I'll be right back. I have to go get a book and be right back, okay?" she said. I nodded and I assume she teleported to her living room. She came back about a minute later, with a book. Quickly, she began reading a page and smiled once she finished.
"Okay, I'm ready. Let's see, mint green." I began to float in the air, once again surrounded by the aura. I already felt different. When she was finished, her eyes were focused on my flank.I felt flattered of course and I began blush.
"Uh-Oh.Even with all the magic I have, I can't change your cutie mark. That will be a problem" Twilight said. I thought for a moment and remembered a time when something like this occurred.
"No, it won't be a problem. Remember that time when Trixie was in town, Big Mac had to change his cutie mark to Applejack's" I said.
"Oh, yeah. I remember, I'm sure I could do something like that" I wasn't so sure about that, but I decided to let her do it. She grabbed a paint brush and paint, she began drawing what I thought was an oval. As she began adding colors, it formed a square around it. When she was half way done, I realized what it was. It was a piece of cake with an almond in the middle, how convenient. She seemed to remember something and immediately began to work on it. A flash of light blinded me, and for a moment I thought I was blind. Until I regained my sight, she smiled and apologized.
"I'm sorry, I was changing your eye color. Don't worry, it'll fit your coat" she slowly began to turn me around. I was perplexed to see that the pony in front of me, was actually me. I was beautiful, even more than before. My mane was down, but instead of my regular style, there were waves. My eyes were hazel, which combined beautifully with my coat. Finally, my coat was exactly like I imagined, mint green. I could see Twilight smiling at me.
"Thank you Twilight, I look beautiful" I said. She nodded and yawned.
"Good, because I'm tired" she said. She pointed to a spare bed she had once we arrived at her room. Spike was already sleeping peacefully again. Once we were all settled down, we said our good nights and went to sleep.
The next morning, was normal as ever. I showered, brush my teeth, eat breakfast and everything. But I still wasn't used to seeing somepony so different from my regular self. Just as I was cleaning up the dishes, there was knock on the front door. This time Spike opened it, to reveal 4 mares I knew all too well.
"Hey Spike, is Twilight home?" Rainbow Dash asked. Twilight came running down stairs, before greeting them.
"Hey girls, come in" she gestured them to sit on the couch. I slowly came out the kitchen, calming my breath. As soon as I came out, all eyes were glued to me.
"Who is this?" Rainbow asked again. They all looked at Twilight waiting for an answer and I could tell she was nervous. As she started talking I came to the rescue.
"Girls this is-"
"-Almond Crisp" I interrupted. I don't know when or how I lost my accent when I said that." I'm Twilight's cousin, she probably hasn't mentioned me before" They all smiled at me and shook their head.
"Well she's never mentioned you before, but since you're her family were glad to have you here" Applejack said. I smiled in return and nodded.
"Thank you-" I waited for an answer.
"Applejack. This here is Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie" she said gesturing them.
"Sup"
"Hello"
"Hi!"
"Pleasure to meet you all, I'll go ahead and go upstairs" I said. Just when I was about to take a step. I heard Twilight speak up.
"Don't be silly Almond, join us" You're going to pay for this Twilight. I turned around and put the best smile I had.
"Well if you insist,cousin" I said. I sat next to her and decided to listen to their conversation.
"So why the visit?" Twilight asked.
"We came here,'cause today in the morning I was walking around town when I saw pictures of Rarity all over town. So I asked what the problem was and they told me she stole some kind of dress" Rainbow said. The other 3 mares nodded with a worried frown on their faces.
"Everypony's sayin' she ran away last night, and haven't seen her since. We're really worried" Applejack added. I listened to these words and couldn't help feel a little guilt on my part. If the time comes, I'll apologize to the 4 of them for causing them worry.
"I can't say I heard about this, but I'm sure Rarity's fine" Twilight said. Liar I said chuckling on the inside. A worried look was on Fluttershy face, as she spoke up.
"I also haven't seen Sweetie Belle around" she mentioned. I was about to answer, but reminded myself I wasn't Rarity anymore. Luckily, Twilight answered.
"Oh, Rarity told me last week she was on vacation with her family and Opal on vacation" she said. Out of nowhere, we all heard Pinkie.
"Your name's delicious" she said. Twilight looked at her with a confused face, as she addressed her.
"Excuse me?" she asked. Pinkie shook her head and tilted her head, towards me.
"No, Twilight. I was talking about your cousin, she has a delicious name. I mean it's Almond, ALL-MMM-OO--NN--D" she said laughing. Randomly, she asked made gasp that made me jump a little.
"Oh my goodness! What about you're family, I bet they have delicious names too!" she exclaimed.
"Yeah, I belong to the err... Brownie family" I lied. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Twilight raise an eyebrow.
"Twilight! Why didn't you tell us you had a yummy family!" Pinkie said, pretending to be offended. I grinned,as Twilight moved uncomfortably on her seat.
"I didn't know how goody my family was" she said with a sarcastic tone.
"Ohhh, tell us more" Pinkie said sitting down comfortably, and gesturing me to begin, as the rest of them rolled their eyes. This was going as planned. Nopony was had recognized me, and that was great. This whole Almond thing wasn't going to be easy, but I'm sure I could pull it off.
"Were should I start" I said, as I prepared myself for the thousand lies that were ready to come out of my mouth.
"Twilight, remind me again why agreed to this?" I asked annoyed. Twilight looked up from her book to stare at me.
"Because if you didn't Pinkie would feel offended". I had agreed a day earlier to go baking with Pinkie. This whole baking thing, had got me thinking a lot. Mainly, because I don't even know how to bake. Yes, I'm a great cook, but when it comes to deserts, I'm really clumsy.
"Alright then, I'm out" I called out as I exit the front door. I heard Twilight say something, but I was too far away to understand her. As I walked through the town,I could see all eyes on me.Stallions, mares, fillies and colts, all chatting with one another. I could over hear their conversations.
"Who is she?"
"Is she new here?"
"She knows the princess?!" Ugh,these ponies.
I walked down the street,until I came to a stop. Sugarcube Corner, now seemed more intimidating. Just as I entered the shop, I was greeted by a pink blur, tackling me to the ground.
"Almondy,I so glad you came!" Pinkie said excitedly.
"Almondy?" I asked.The name was quite...rare,but I guess I'll have to get used to it.
"Yeah...it was actually a last minute name. I was thinking"maybe I should give Almond a nickname" and I came up with Almondy, neat right?" Pinkie said.
"Quite" I answered
"Alrighty, let's get started" she exclaimed. As we walked inside the kitchen, Pinkie put the ingredients on a table near the stove. I looked at Pinkie nervously, for some instructions. A question came over me before we even started.
"What are we doing again?" I said, again hiding my accent.
"Well what do you normally bake back at home?" she asked. Great, a question and an answer question, hated those. Think, think. Let's see in my fillyhood, my mom used to bake a delicious daisy honey cake. Problem was, I didn't know the recipe.
"Daisy honey cake?" I asked. Pinkie's face turned into a frown.
"I never baked with flowers... I can make an exception" she said. Pinkie looked at me expectantly, waiting for me to start. Right, let's see. My mom used to start with...flour!
"Pinkie,could you get me the flour?" I asked. She nodded and went ahead to get it. I saw she jumped once, while I would have jumped about five times just to get it. Pinkie handed me the flour and I poured it in a bowl.
"If you want to help, you can get the eggs for me?" I said. I knew eggs came next, it was obvious... I think.
"I'll also get the swirly thingy!" Pinkie said. Swirly thingy? What swir- Oh no. I stopped when she took the bowl,I looked at Pinkie,how rude. She was doing a great job, of course how silly of me. She worked on a bakery for Celestia's sake! Hmm... maybe it wasn't so hard.
"Pinkie? Can I mix it for a while, we can take turns" I said. She nodded again, while handing me the so called swirly thingy.
"Okie dokie!" After all this cake was going to be the best I ever did make.
I arrived at the library, all dirty and covered in flour. When I opened the door, Twilight immediately raised her head to address me. As soon as she saw me, she stopped and laughed, falling to her side.
"W-what h-appenne-d to y-ou?" she said calming herself a little.
"Oh, laugh it off Twilight Sparkle. I smell like eggs and-" I stopped to sniff myself. "-something I can't put my hoof on"
"Did you use the egg beater up or down?" Twilight asked.
"Up" I said with a grunt.
"Didn't Pinkie tell you the basics?" she asked. I rolled my eyes and glanced her way.
"Yes, but I couldn't hear her over the noise. I'm just glad I could cover the whole chaos, I just told her I was sleepy from the trip. Also that it made me lose control over what I was doing" I said.
"Go ahead and eat lunch, it's at the table" Twilight said. I nodded and went over to the dining room, Spike was already there, enjoying his meal. I turned back around to address Twilight.
"Thank You, Twilight. But I think I'm going to shower" I said. I headed upstairs and I heard her voice, soft and gentle as ever.
"You called?" I asked, as I descended down the stairs. Twilight was reading a book, as usual.
"Yeah, Rarity tell me exactly what the police told you, the day they went to your house" she asked.
"Well, I can't remember exactly, but I guess something about me stealing Sapphire's dress and that's basically the whole problem"
"Yes I know that. But did they mention,any proof they have" she said, tilting her head.
"One of them told me they knew, as in they were sure I stole it" I said. She scratched her chin, for a second before widening her eyes.
"Tell me, who exactly does Sapphire Shores usually hang out with?" She asked.
"Only with famous Canterlot ponies or celebrities. Why do you ask?" I said. I didn't know what she was planning, but knowing Twilight, this was going to be... interesting.
"Just curious, but tell me do you think Sapphire Shores would refuse a visit from a princess?" she said.
"Twilight, I don't think Princess Celes-Ohh! You clever you" I said with a grin.
"Rainbow doesn't call me egghead for nothing" Twilight said with a proud posture.
"Yes, well what's you're plan?" I asked.
"Giving her a visit and wing it. I'm going to try to tell me more about your case. For example, how they came to know that you were the thief or to show me some proof"
"Don't you think she will ask why you're so interested in this?" I asked.
"I told you I'm going to wing it, being a princess does come in handy sometimes" she said. I gave her a quick hug and departed.
"Thank you"
"No problem, well I better get going. I'll tell you everything when I come back"she said and closed the door behind her.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------- I woke up to the sound of a door opening. Turning around the corner, I saw Twilight's silhouette coming in through the front door. She had a exhausted look upon her face. Slowly, I walked downstairs, but not until she noticed me. Once she saw me, she smiled, but I could tell it was forced. Uh oh. This can't be good
"I thought you were asleep" she said.
"I was" I said shrugging.
"Sorry. Rarity, can we go sit for a moment?" she asked. I nodded and headed for the living room. I sat across from her, while she played with her hooves.
"Okay, so I talked to Sapphire and she seemed really nice. But once I mentioned you, she started to insult you and how you were a mistake for becoming a her personal designer. I calmed her down enough, to get some information. Apparently, there was a recording of the incident, and it clearly shows well... you" Twilight said. I knew it, she didn't believe me.
"What do you mean?" I asked hesitantly. She gulped while she continued.
"You see, in the video you're the one pony there. You seem confident about yourself, grab the outfit and simply walk out. All the guards were sleeping, so nopony noticed, until the next morning" she said.
"But I didn't do it"
"I know. It's just really hard to clear your name under these circumstances"
"I don't know what to do! Soon, you're going to stop believing me and you will turn me in" I said out of nowhere. This seemed to surprise Twilight because she gasped and made a frown.
"How could you say such a thing? If I wanted to turn you in, I would have done it already!" she said.
"You'll get tired and worried that this may affect your reputation!"
"I don't care what others think, I'm just trying to protect you!" Twilight shouted
"I don't want to cause you anymore problems, Twilight. Maybe it will be best, if I just left and never come back. Go with my parents, live with them and you won't have to risk yourself" I said.
"No, Rarity. You don't have to leave, I promise you'll be safe. Nopony has noticed anything unusual and that's saying something. It means that you're safe here... for now. But it doesn't matter because were going to face this thing together" she said.
I don't know why, but her words were gentle and soft, that it almost made me want to hug her. She was right though, nopony had noticed anything different. Eventually, there were going to come for me, but maybe I'll prove my innocence by then.
"Alright, I trust you. That's why I came to you in the first place"
"No you didn't. You came here because it was the first place you found yourself in, after being chased by guards" she said laughing, as I joined her.
"By the way, have you seen Spikey-Wikey today" I asked.
"Oh, yes he went to the market this morning,haven't seen him since"
"I'll go look for him. You're staying reading late tonight?"
"Yeah, I'll go to bed later" she said.
I didn't reply, and headed upstairs. I entered the room without knocking, and saw Spike picking up some scrolls. As soon as he saw me, he put them on a desk.
"Hey, Spikey" I said, as I sat down on a stool. He looked up, to address me.
"Hi" he replied. Something was bothering him, and could tell by the way he avoided making eye contact with me.
"Something on your mind?" I asked. Spike shrugged and grabbed a chair from the desk. He placed it in front of me, so he could come face to face with me... or stomach.
"You wouldn't understand" he said.
"Well, tell me so I can understand"
"You know Ginger, right? The pony with the red mane, freckled cheeks, yellow coat and brown eyes" Ginger...Ginge-Oh! Yes, I do know her, one of Sweetie Belle's old friends.
"Yes, I believe so"
"Well, me and her were dating, we started out a few weeks ago. We kept it a secret with everypony because she didn't want anypony to find out. I agreed and thought it would pass, but today I went to the market. I passed the fruit stand, when I saw her kissing a colt. I got angry, broke up with her instantly, it was until then I realized she didn't care about me. She said she u-used me so I-I could become l-like her practice boyf-friend" he said. I put a comforting hoof and let him cry. Poor Spike, he didn't deserve this. I remember my first break up, it was almost similar, except he broke up with me on my birthday. What a jerk.
"Don't worry Spike, it'll pass. I can imagine how much you care about her" I said.
"Yeah, I did. But she used me Rarity, I'll become the laugh of the town!"
"Didn't you say she hasn't told anypony yet?" I asked.
"You're right, she hasn't. You know that whole crying helped me a lot. I don't feel that lump in my throat anymore"
"Glad I could help, now I need to-" I was interrupted by the sound of my stomach growling. I laughed and neared the door.
"I going to get a snack, be back later" I said.
"Okay, thanks Rarity"
"You're welcome" I replied, as I closed the door. It felt good to have friends like Spike and Twilight, it didn't matter what problems I had, they would always be there.
Ponyville wasn't the same without me. I could tell by the way they looked at Carousel Boutique, as they passed by. Such sorrow,such regret. I shook those thoughts, and focused on my way to the market. I walked pass SugarCube corner, to Applejack's stand. I put my best smile and trotted to her.
"Hello Applejack" I greeted. She looked up and smiled.
"Howdy Almond, what brings ya here today?" She said.
"Nothing just buying some groceries, since Spike didn't finish them yesterday"
"Oh, yeah. Poor Spike, the whole town talking 'bout it" Wait...what?
"I'm sorry Applejack, but how did you find out?"
"Well they had it as a secret. But you know ponies around here, always knowin' each others secrets" Applejack said. Honestly, I was surprised of how fast a rumor spread around here.
"Yes... Umm did you hear anything else?" I asked, curiosity taking over me. She shook her head and nodded.
"Alright, I would like a basket of apples" I said. She handed them to me on a basket I carried.
"Have a nice day!" She shouted, as I waved back.
I arrived home,putting the groceries on the kitchen. I found nopony there. It was odd, usually Twilight would be here at this time. As I moved around, I saw a note left on the kitchen counter. Judging by the handwriting, it was Twilight's.
Rarity, you're probably wondering why I'm not home. You see today, a guard came to see me. Apparently, they had found evidence of the theft. They didn't mention anything about you. Maybe I can find more evidence to your innocence. Spike, went out with some friends. Don't wait for us and enjoy your day. -Twilight
I looked up from the letter, and thought for a moment. I began to worry more about Spike. Twilight had said that he was out with friends, but I was smart enough to know that he went out looking for Ginger. I hurried out the door, now way was I going to let Spike humiliate himself. I galloped to the center of town, I searched everywhere to at least get a glimpse of him. I was about to get back to the library, when a voice caught my attention. Spike was on his knees, in front of a filly, I could name. She had pure anger on her face, and no mercy.
"Please Ginger, take me back" he said.
"Spike, I already told we're over. I already have a colt friend, he's nicer and cuter. Plus, he's pony" Poor Spike. I wanted nothing more than to go there and comfort the crying Spike. But I couldn't go there, with looking like I was following him. I just watched the rest and waited for them to start talking.
"Why did you date me in the first place? Couldn't you just gotten a pony, instead of a dragon!" Spike said, his voice cracking. Ginger raised an eyebrow and laughed.
"I would have, but you came along first and you seemed to be the perfect candidate to believe it" Ginger said. I stared with wide eyes, at what happened next. She put a hoof in the air and slapped Spike... Hard. Oh no she didn't. I couldn't stop myself, I revealed myself to the two. Ginger raised and eyebrow, while Spike touched his cheek.
"Nopony touches Spike!" I shouted,as I launched myself. But not until a claw grabbed my tail. I turned around to see an angry looking Spike.
"R-Almond were you following me?" he asked.
"Yes, I was" I replied.
"Why? Didn't Twilight leave you the letter?"
"She did, but I wasn't going to leave you with this pony"
"Ugh, look this is my problem.I know how to handle myself"
"I know you can, that's why I 'm worried about you" I moved closer so I could touch his cheek. He shuddered at the touch, but dismiss them away.
"Thanks,Almond, but I'm growing up everyday. I have to learn stuff myself, i don't need any guides how to live my life" he responded.
"Maybe, but you'll always keep learning, wherever you go" I said.He smiled and gave me a warm hug. As we separated, he looked at me with a glare.
"Promise me you won't do anything to her"
"I promise... as long as she doesn't provoke me" I said quietly. We both turned to see Ginger was long gone,during our conversation. An idea came to my mind, and since Twilight wasn't here it would be perfect.
"Spike,have you heard of the new restaurant down the street?" I asked. Spike shook his head and gave a shrug.
"Can't say I have"
"Great, I will take you tonight"
"Alright, but I'll pay" he said. Aww, what a sweetheart
"Sounds like a plan,shall we get going?" I asked. Spike bowed his head and looked at me.
"After you"
"Spike, there are no doors here?"
"You had to ruin the mood" he said with a playful smirk. I laughed and led him to the restaurant. I hoped Twilight was having a good time because I certainly was.
Gems and Diamonds, was one of the most prestigious restaurants in Ponyville. The glamour and sophistication, made me feel like I was entering one of the many restaurants in Canterlot. Spike and I entered, to find us being greeted by the manager.
"Good evening, welcome to Gems and Diamonds. How many are dining here tonight?" He asked.
"Two" Spike replied. The pony looked down to Spike and looked perplexed for a moment, before shaking his head.
"Alright, follow me" he guided us through a crowd of ponies eating. A few ponies looked our way as we walked, and I heard chuckles from them. They were all mostly looking at Spike, obliviously from him. Honestly, I loved attention, but those glares weren't doing anything to me. We arrived at a table, with two glasses and napkins. The manager handed us a menu, bowed once and left to his spot. I didn't even look at the menu, I already knew what I wanted. However, Spike looked puzzled at it, I could tell he'd never come to one of these. I didn't get the chance to ask him, when a waiter came. He smiled, while he took out his notepad.
"Miss, what will you be having today?" he asked addressing me.
"I'll have a martini only"
"And you, sir?"
"Do you guys have sapphires?"
"No"
"Rubies"
"No"
"err... Turquoise"
"No, we don't serve gems. But perhaps we have something here that you would like" I don't why, but his tone bothered me a little. It wasn't Spike's fault that he liked gems, the waiter was just being a pain in the flank.
"The only pony food I like is hay fries, you got that?"
"We do. Drink?"
"Nah, I'm good"
"Very well, I'll come back with your orders" the waiter said as he left. I didn't notice Spike calling for me, I was too busy looking at his posture. So calm, cool and elegant at the same time, how can you fit all those three qualities in one little dragon? Something I have always admired about him.
"You okay? You kinda spaced out" I could feel the heat reaching my cheeks, as I composed myself.
"Yes, I was just thinking"
"About what?"
"Nothing, just how much I want that martini" I lied.
"Speaking of which, I didn't know you drank?" I chuckled in response.
"Not usually, it doesn't have that much alcohol"
"Yeah, I was just wondering" A different waiter came this time, placed my drink and Spike's hay fries.
"Bon appetit!" he said and left.
"Wow. This looks awesome!" Spike said and took a handful of fries." They taste even better than they look!" he spoke with his mouth full, but I didn't even care. Instead, I watched with how much joy he ate them, he wasn't that depressed dragon I found an hour earlier anymore.
"Do you want some ketchup?" I said, as I levitated the object. He nodded and I poured a little. I began drinking my martini, watching how happy the ponies around us looked. Spike moved his chair, maybe thinking I wouldn't notice.
"Want some?" he asked, offering me some of his fries. To be honest, I liked hay fries, even though I only ate them when Sweetie Belle was around.
"Thank you" I said. I took some and ate one, as soon as it connected to mouth, I felt the urge to eat more. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Spike resisting the urge to laugh at my odd behavior. I blushed watching the way he grabbed a napkin and wiped the corner of my mouth.
"You had some ketchup in your face"
"Sorry, I got a little carried away. I haven't eaten these since Sweetie Belle's 8th birthday"
"That long, I should take you out more often" I smiled at the thought.
"I would like that Spike" I said leaning closer and kissing his cheek. He touched it for a moment with dreamy eyes, but composed himself to look cool. But I knew he cared. A thought came to me, but I didn't think it was appropriate, since he just passed through a breakup. I knew it was true, but I wanted to know when it stopped.
"You know Spike, I always knew you admired me, in a way" I watched as he tensed up and I chuckled." But I got to know, when did it stop?"
"It never did" was his only response.
"Then why were you so depressed when Ginger left you?"
"I always thought moving on was the answer to the pain I felt. So when Ginger asked me out, I said yes because I was desperate for some love. Then the breakup came, and I felt the pain again. Don't you see I was scared of rejection, I couldn't face you, I just couldn't" he said shaking his head, but no tears touched his eyes. That was really sweet and I felt something inside me stir, and it wasn't the fries, it was something else.
"Looks like you just did. You faced your fears, without crying your eyes out"
"Your right, I did"
"And about rejection, you should know me better and know that I wouldn't reject you harshly. Even if I don't feel the same way about you, I would understand. Judging by this, you were trying to ask me out?" I asked. He nodded, looking down at his claws." I'm not rejecting you, I just need time to think. I need to understand myself first" again he nodded and looked up.
"Thanks R- Can I call you by your name?"
"Sure"
"Thanks Rarity, for understanding." A waiter came and put the bill in front, he smiled and left to his spot. 20 bits. I was about to get my bits out, but Spike stopped me.
"I'll pay, be right back" I watched as he walked down, to the counter. He came back a few minutes later and grabbed my hoof.
"Shall we get going?" he asked. Kissing him on the cheek again, I laughed.
"Twilight, for the last time, we just went out to eat!" Spike said sounding frustrated. Honestly, I couldn't blame him, Twilight had been going on like this for half an hour now. We told her about Ginger and now she was asking what we did next. She didn't believe a word we were saying, only because Spike went pass his curfew.
"And you came back at what? Eleven? Something could have happened to you"
"But I was there with him, we thought you'd be back late" I said.
"I know I trust you Rarity" She looked curiously between us and a frown appeared on her face. "Was there any...kissing?"
"Twilight!"
"Why, I wouldn't do that to Spikey right now!"
"I know, I know. I was just teasing you guys. Oh, by the way Rarity, I talked to Princess Celestia today. She said that Sapphire Shores needs to talk to me about some more evidence she found" Twilight said.
"Oh..."
"I was wondering, if you would like to go with me" Wait... was she serious? How could I go in there?
"How?"
"The way you've been fooling everypony. Ha! You've even fooled me" she said with an assuring smile.
"In that case, I'll do it" I said. It wasn't a bad idea, Sapphire wouldn't recognize me. I would only change my voice and I was ready to go. The rest was all done, so I just had to show off my acting skills.
"Alright, she wanted me to go as soon as possible. Maybe you could clean your name, by using Almond"
"Yeah, your right"
"What about me?" I heard Spike said. I even forgotten he was there.
"You, need to go to sleep" Twilight said.
"But Twilight-"
"No buts, me and Rarity have to go early out"
"Fine, but you better wake me up" he said. He went upstairs, once he was out of earshot, Twilight gave a chuckle.
We went out early as Twilight had said, and we did indeed wake up Spike, but he was a heavy sleeper. Twilight and I took the train to Canterlot, it certainly felt different from the last time I was there. I met all the ponies I once knew,on the train and when we arrived at Canterlot. Twilight lead me to a particular mansion, in the middle of the city. There I found a couple of dancers exit the house, and a security guard nodding at them. As soon as he saw Twilight, he bowed before gaining her composure. With his magic he opened the door and let us in. Sapphire was resting on a sofa near a dressing room.
"Princess" she said, bowing.
"You don't have to call me that, you can just call me Twilight" Actually, I did enjoy seeing Sapphire look like any ordinary pony for once, but Twilight had ruin the moment. Sapphire looked up and raised an eyebrow. She shifted her eyes to Twilight, expecting some explanation. But it took a while to understand, considering the fact how slow she is in realizing when addressing her.
"Oh, this is my cousin Almond Crisp. Almond, certainly you have heard of Sapphire Shores, THE pony of pop" she said with a gentle smile.
"Pleasure meeting you Ms.Shores"
"Likewise. But please call me Sapphire, any friend or family to the princess is okay with me" Sapphire said. If only she knew. I did feel the tiniest bit nervous, being here with the pony that accused me of theft. But I was going to prove my innocence, I had to go through this.
"Follow me" Sapphire said guiding us to another room, which I guess was her REAL living room. We sat at a sofa, facing her in the other.
"So, you wanted to see me?" Twilight asked.
"Yes, I'm sorry if you were busy, but it was important for you to see this"
"Don't worry about it" Sapphire offered us a chair, while she sat on a chair in front of large screen. She hit a large button at the bottom of the screen, and an image appeared. Like I suspected, it was me.
"We have been working on the crime scene these couple of days, but something doesn't make sense" Sapphire said motioning at my on-screen hooves. "She was clearly walking in this area, yet no hoofprints appeared on the investigation" No hoofprints? That was impossible, since my impostor wasn't wearing any boots to cover it up.
"It's strange" Twilight said thoughtfully.She studied the image closer and smiled at me. A smile so small, I could barely see. "But look" she said pointing a hoof."She wasn't touching the floor, there was a dim of light, but no shadow" It was true if, whoever it was, was really in the room it would leave a shadow.
"Ugh, all of this is making my head hurt" Sapphire said touching her forehead. "She left a hoofprint though. It was on the window that she must have used to escape. We know it's hers, we checked her birth certificate and it matches up perfectly"But this doesn't make sense, how can somepony get my hoofprint? As I was told, nopony has the same hoofprint as another pony.
"Yeah..." Twilight said glancing to the side for a second. She stayed quiet for a minute and raised her head. She was up to something."Sapphire, would you mind if I stayed here for a couple of days? I need to investigate this myself"
"No I don't mind, it would actually be an honor to have you here. And Almond would you like to stay too?"
"Err... I shouldn't. Spike is alone at home and-"
"Nonsense. I'll contact Spike and tell him to stay with my friends"What the hay Twilight? You know I can't stand here another minute.Now you want me to stay here for a couple of days!
"WHAT THE HAY WERE YOU THINKING?!" I shouted at Twilight. She was making the bed, and turned to face me.
"I did it to help you"
"With trapping me here?"
"Look, I know it seems stupid, but this can actually benefit you" she said getting nearer.
"How?" I asked frustrated. She clearly didn't know the consequences, and she was supposed to be smart.
"You looking over at the evidence and knowing how everything is going" I sat at the bed and looked at my hooves. Tears forming at the corner of my eyes.
"You don't understand" I said giving out a sigh. "My hooves" She raised an eyebrow at this, until she remembered Sapphire's words from earlier.
Twilight and I didn't talk for the rest of the night, not even in the morning. I wasn't angry at her, it seemed she was thinking ahead, and not at the consequences. She seemed sorry and didn't say a word as she went to sleep. Leaving me at the other end of the bed, smelling her hooves, so I had to turn over. Now, we were here at the breakfast table, waiting for Sapphire to arrive. Celestia, she took a long time getting herself ready, now I know how Sweetie Belle must have felt.
"Prrincesss! Almmondd!" she said in her sing song voice and sat at the table.
"Morning!" We both said, watching as she devoured a blueberry muffin. Sapphire looked up blushing, and brushed the attention of her.
"Soo, did you sleep well?"
"Oh, yes. Except I had to sleep with hooves in my mouth" I said looking over at Twilight, grinning.
"Ha! You have hooves too, cousin" she said. Wow... she was a great actress, she didn't talk to me for a full night and here she was making remarks towards me.
"Sounds like you two had fun fighting over the bed, now did you two try my blueberry muffins?" Sapphire said taking one and offering it to me. I took it and had the first bite. Mmmm,delicious. We finished and walked over to the room I didn't want to arrive to. Just the sight of it, made my stomach growl. We stopped in front of the doors without going inside.
"Well here we are, you're free to stay here as long as you like. Give me a shout if you need anything!" Sapphire said, not waiting for an answer. I was left with Twilight in a long, awkward silence. I was about to start walking, when a hoof stopped me.
"No, put these on" Twilight said, giving me some boots that appeared with her magic.
"What for?" I asked.
"If you go in there without these, there is a possibility they'll know you're in here. They will think you came back to the crime scene and look even harder for you" she said whispering in case of any eavesdroppers.
"What about the rest of the house?" I asked nervously, knowing I walked all the way through here without cover.
"Sapphire told us that you came and got out through the same window, there is no reason for them to search the rest of the house" I nodded and put the boots on, walking inside. I had never been in this room before, but I had to admit the room itself was gorgeous. A giant chandelier hanged over our heads, casting a light that illuminated the whole room. Silk curtains, a hundred dresses, all hanged in a closet. Then, there was a beautiful case that took all the attention of the room. It seemed a place I would hold my most priced possession. I realized what it held and smiled.
"No wonder the thief took it, certainly would attract anypony"
"It's beautiful" Twilight said looking around, until she came to her senses." But were not here to observe the scenery. So... Sapphire said she didn't see anything, except the window hoofprint..." she said walking over to the window. There wasn't anything unusual, just the hoofprint. Twilight peeked closer to the widow, careful not to touch anything. She scrunched her face and took a step back, watching me.
"Err... well t-the hoofprint is yours..." she said.
"How can you be so sure?" I asked tilting my head and walking closer to her.
"See for yourself" This time it was me with a scrunched up face, and looked at were Twilight was recently looking at. It was barely noticeable, but it was there, my cutie mark. Three diamonds were drawn into them, so small, you had to look for it to find it. I didn't even know we had them in our hooves. I glanced over at Twilight for an answer.
"I didn't know we had those" I simply said.
"It's a secret to all ponies in Equestria, almost nopony knows about it. Only guards and Princess Celestia know they exist, they must have told Sapphire that it was an investigation. When the only thing they did was stare at it and identify you"
"But how come you know about it?" I asked quite confused.
Twilight chuckled lightly, clearing her throat "I am.. or was the Princess student, I witnessed some crimes over my past years"
"Okay, okay, but what about it?"
"That's just it, I don't know. I know you didn't do it, but how can somepony get access to your hooves?" she said.
"Can unicorns do some kind of spell to do something like this?"
"Not that I know of. Wait... There is a spell! It's an illegal spell and very complicated, I cant even do it" Twilight said pacing.
I followed her waiting for her to come to a stop "Is there a way other than a spell?"
"No. It would be impossible without leaving hoofprints behind"
"You're right. Unless it was somepony who was determined to drown me" I said with a hint of anger in my voice. I considered that idea for a moment."Yes, Yes! Somepony who hates me!"
Twilight raised an eyebrow and stared at me "Is there somepony who dislikes you?"
"I don't think so" I said. Not noticing we were still pacing, Twilight stopped and I bumped into her. Sending her flying over a shelf, I also hadn't noticed. I went flying towards one of the curtains,attaching my mane in one of the hooks in the process. I quickly got up, yanking my mane, since it was still stuck. I galloped to Twilight to see if she was okay.
"Oh my, Twilight! I'm so sorry, I didn't notice we were still walking! Here let me help you" I offered her my hoof and she took it, as I helped her get up.
Chuckling, she cleaned herself up" Don't worry about it, I should have warned you"
"Come on let's go before they catch us here, and not word about this. I don't want Sapphire to think I'm a clumsy mare" I said smiling.
"Don't worry I won't tell" Twilight said, as we walked together again to the not-so intimidating halls.
When we finally arrived at the living room after we had stopped by,eating a quick snack.A couple of guards were there. We trotted over to them and they greeted us. Sapphire arrived in time, to stare at us bewildered.
"What's wrong? You called?" She asked the guards.
"We did"
"They did?"
"Do what?" I asked almost as confused as Sapphire. The guards looked at us for a moment, before I recognized one of them. It was the same guard I had punched the day they took me from my home.
"We were informed of an incident earlier today...murder" One of the guards said emphasizing the word. We all gasped and stared at them, shocked to hear such news.
Curiosity overtook me" Who was it?"
"We don't know, but we know who killed the pony"
"Who?" Twilight asked.
"Rarity" WHAT?! Alright, accusing me for theft was one thing, but murder, never.
"That's not possible R-" Twilight cut herself up before giving away our secret. Clearing her throat she came up with an excuse. "W-Why would Rarity come back, knowing Canterlot is looking for her?"
"Our thoughts exactly, but we found a hoofprint in the crime scene. And analyzing it, it was hers" NONONONONO! This isn't happening!
"We have to stop that mare!" Sapphire said, still somewhat shocked. Tears, we starting to form and I glanced over at Twilight who sighed and avoided my gaze. It was odd though, she didn't say anything,as she slowly walked away. I walked behind her, just in time to hear a guard tell Sapphire something else.
"We also found a strand of mane at the room of the crime,and we are positive it is hers"
"Twilight?... Twilight, where are you?" I asked as I walked down the hall. I searched everywhere, but found no sign of her. The more I walked, the more I began to worry about her. I kept galloping, until I heard a sob coming from the corner. I turned the corner to see Twilight standing on a balcony outside.
"Twilight,what are you doing here all alone?" I asked getting near to her. She quickly wiped her tears and faced me, trying to hide her reddening eyes.
"Hey Rarity, I j-just came to...see the stars"
"Yes, and I came to throw up"
Laughing, Twilight shook her head "You're not making any sense"
"Well neither are you darling"
"How are you so sure?"
"It's daytime" I deadpanned. She sighed, one that I always gave when I felt stressed. "What's going on Twilight? You're not one to get discouraged so easily"
"I just feel like I'm not getting anywhere in all of this. I mean look what we have gathered, nothing, just of bunch of nothing" Twilight said looking to the side.
"You're effort is enough for me, yours and Spikey's. Even I going to jail for a crime or actually TWO crimes I didn't commit" I said smiling a little.
"That's another thing, I can't sit here and do nothing about it! If we don't stop her-"
"Her?" she widened her eyes and lowered her gaze.
"Yes, w-we know it's a her we're after, right?" The stuttering made it obvious she was hiding something from me.
"Rrright.."
"Yes, well I have to do something, find a magic spell that can track her down or something"
"Twilight, good things come to those who wait remember? We can't rush everything, it will only get me into deeper trouble" I said.
"But aren't you worried of the consequences?"
I sighed" Well yes, but I always think positive"
"I guess your right, it's just there's nothing positive about this whole situation"
"Well you have to-" I was cut off as I heard a distant voice, yet I could easily distinguish it.Spike. His voice got closer, until I could see his shadow in the bright lights from the hall.
"Spike? What are you doing here?" Twilight said looking at him as he came to view. Since he was running, he was panting and cleared his throat before speaking.
"I c-came to t-talk to Rarity" he said
"Why?" Twilight asked protectively.
"Uh, this doesn't concern you Twilight" Spike said with an exasperate tone.
"Yes it does Spike and you know it" she said looking back at me to see my reaction. Honestly, I didn't know what to think, but it seemed like something I should know.
"Maybe it does, but I want to be the one telling her"
"Again, why?"
"Because I took part on it" Now, this got my attention quickly. I didn't know what they had done, but it must have been important for Spike to come talk to about it.
"What is it?" I asked getting into the conversation, slightly concerned. They looked at one another for a moment, until Twilight lowered her head.
"You know the consequences Spike, we made a vow"
"I know... but I can't do this Twilight. Not to Rarity" Spike said looking at me. I felt heat rise up to meet my cheeks, and I could feel myself starting to blush. Twilight sighed and nodded.
"Alright" she said. She left without a word, just as the sun began to set.
"What was that about?" I asked not understanding anything that had just happened.
"I'll get to that,but first come here and sit with me" he said leading me to one of the benches near the balcony. I sat down next to Spike and waited patiently for him to start.He settled down and exhaled slowly. "Rarity, ever since I came to Ponyville, you've been the only pony, other than Twilight, that I can trust. You also know that I have always had a crush on you, which you think I had gotten over" I nodded and smiled understanding him completely."And on top of that, I always wanted to repay you for your generosity and kindness" Spike said putting a claw on his face.
"Oh, Spike you don't have to-"
"Yes I do!" he shouted, and I could see his now reddening eyes, like Twilight earlier."I've only done the opposite, what kind of friend does that make me"
"What are you trying to say?" I asked putting a hoof on his shoulder. He grabbed my hoof and rubbed his thumb on it. He released a breath I didn't know he was holding and looked at me straight in the eyes. I saw his tears flow down his cheek and it made me want to hug him, assure him he could tell me anything.
"It was me"
"I'm sorry, what?" I asked, clearly I must have heard him wrong.
"It was me. I helped on everything they accused you of" I released his grip and a tear fell down my cheek. No How could Spike be involved in this, this must be a joke. I narrowed my eyes, anger in my eyes.
"Why? How could you do this to me Spike?!"
"It wasn't a choice! Not even Twilight's"
"Twilight's?! You mean to tell me, you were both in this!" I shouted getting to his face.
"If we didn't you would have been killed!" Spike retorted, his face full of misery.
"Who put you up to this?" I asked a little more calm. But when he didn't answer my anger erupted again"Who?!"
"I can't tell you"
"What?!"
"I can't tell you, and if I did it would put you in risk!" he shouted.
"No, you tell me now Spike!" I shouted levitating him and putting him in front of me. He shook his head and narrowed his eyes.
"Rarity don't make do this, I-"
"Now!" I screamed and regretting it. Seeing how his face twisted to horror, made my stomach hurt a bit.
"Ginger" he said.
"What? What does she have to do with this?" I asked tilting my head.
"She isn't who everypony think she is. She was replaced somepony else"
"What do you mean?" I asked.
"I-" The ground started to rumble and a light gained my attention. In Spike's arms, a chain started to form until it it linked them together. He started to move upwards until he was left hanging with his legs swinging. I didn't notice we were in a completely different scenery, a cave. There was no light, only a red light that could only let me see Spike's form. I was standing on a what seemed to be a cliff in the middle of nothing. Another silhouette began to appear, but this one I had a little trouble figuring out, until I saw her face. There she was, Twilight in the same state as Spike was. Pure shame showed on their faces, but a confused in mine. A pony came into view, walking slowly towards me and I saw Spike tense up a bit. The shadow looked like a filly, but as it came closer, she became larger. The light reflected on her face and I could see a wicked grin form. It was indeed Ginger, but no the one I saw in the alley the other day. Her face seemed familiar though and I struggled to get a better look, until it clicked.
"Destiny?" I asked hardly believing it.
"Welcome Almond, or should I say...Rarity"she gave a evil laugh and grinned. As my face twisted to horror.
Spike had just finished cleaning Twilight's room to cal it a day, and started putting things away. He gathered a couple of lose feathers he found and threw the in the trash. Upon gazing at a particular picture, he stopped. It was a picture taken not so long ago, the whole gang was there. He could easily remember that day, it was Twilight's coronation. Twilight was looking at the camera with a huge goofy smile on her face. Pinkie Pie looked like she was about to burst from excitement at any moment, which she did after the picture was taken. Rainbow Dash had an eyebrow raised and one eye closed. She had to put the camera in timer, but left for too long, then the flash came with her knowing. Applejack had a similar expression, except she was looking at the side. Fluttershy had an awkward smile in a uncomfortable position. Finally, Rarity and Spike were standing next to each other just with a simple grin. Spike looked at the ponies in front of him and sighed. That day, they had talked about their friendship and how nothing would separate them. He and Twilight knew better than to believe that, the secrets they had kept from their friends would probably do what they thought was impossible. Spike lingered his way to the door, on his way to Fluttershy's cottage. He should probably enjoy his last few visits with his friends, one of them would be his last.
"I'm sorry Rarity" he murmured to nothing in particular. As he passed through Gems and Diamonds, he remembered a conversation with Rarity.
"You know Spike, I always knew you admired me, in a way. But I got to know, when did it stop?"
"It never did"
"Then why were you so depressed when Ginger left you?"
"I always thought moving on was the answer to the pain I felt. So when Ginger asked me out, I said yes because I was desperate for some love. Then the breakup came, and I felt the pain again. Don't you see I was scared of rejection, I couldn't face you, I just couldn't"
Spike smiled at the memory, he wondered if she had detected the lie and the truth in one of those statements. It didn't matter what happened in the future, if he didn't do anything about it, Twilight would. He wanted to be the one telling Rarity, even if it meant losing her friendship. Running, he found himself in Fluttershy's cottage, tomorrow would be the day, he would finally be set free.
"Oh, I see you recognize me" Destiny said smiling down at me. Honestly, I almost didn't, that is until she spoke.
"How could I not?" I stated. Confusion got to me and I looked around once again. This time I noticed Twilight and Spike's faces, both of them were staring at me with pity. "But what's happening?" Destiny looked at me and gave me a grin.
"Why would I tell you, when I could show instead" she said. Her horn glowed giving a turquoise aura, as it slowly came towards me. I flinched when I felt it entering my head, pain was all I felt. The last thing I saw was the tortured face in Spike's face and everything went black.
~
11 Years ago
Everypony was sitting down, patently waiting for their teacher to give them instructions. A lonely white unicorn sat at the back of the class staring attentively as the teacher approached. While a proud, unicorn filly looked back at her and stuck her tongue out.
"Good morning class"
"Good morning Miss Ruby!" the class shouted in unison. She smiled and sat at her desk, watching the happy faces of her students.
"As you are aware, today is the day you finally get to present your projects!" Ruby said cheerfully."So, who will be first?" The proud filly raised her hoof, while giving the goofiest smile to her teacher.
"Me Miss Ruby!"
"Alright then, Destiny please talk about your object" The filly stood up on all fours and walked to the front of the class. She carefully levitated an object from her desk and left it hanging with her magic, next to her.
"You will now set your eyes on a masterpiece" Young Destiny said, taking off a cloth on top of the object. Everypony looked at the object, to be revealed to be a dress. It was a simple blue dress, with the straps going all the way to the back, forming an X shape. There small design at the center of the dress, four golden stars. The whole class applauded, while the filly grinned with the praise her classmates were giving her.
"That is a lovely dress Destiny, is there a purpose behind it?" Ruby said.
"The design at the center symbolizes my cutie mark and my mommy helped me" she said, showing off her cutie mark.
"You may take a seat" Miss Ruby said. Destiny levitated the dress to her desk and sat down. She looked back at the unicorn, grinning. The filly lowered her eyes and made a pout, causing Destiny to hold her head up high and ignore her. "Alright, who's next?" Ruby said looking around the classroom. Nopony raised their hoof, and Ruby frowned at this."Since there are no volunteers, I'll choose" Nopony moved an inch as their teacher watched them closely. She saw movement out of the corner of her eye, and turned her head to find the source. The unicorn ducked her head under her desk, when she felt her teacher's gaze on her. "Rarity"
Rarity looked around and saw her teacher give her a knowing smile. She gulped as she carefully walked,feeling the stares of her classmates, mostly Destiny's. Rarity had the object behind her levitating it. Standing in front of her class, she took the cloth on top of it and presented it to her class. A loud gasp escaped out of Destiny's mouth, making everypony look at her.
"You stole my idea!"
"I did not"
"Yes you did copy cat!" Like Destiny, it was a dress, but completely different. Instead of a blue dress, it was red, with no straps. The golden borders were carefully hoof stitched, the mid section was surrounded by small blue sapphires, and glitter all over.
"It's different"
"Miss Ruby, take points off of hers" she said pointing at Rarity.
"Now, why would I do that? It doesn't look anything like yours"
"But it's a dress"
"I never said two students couldn't bring the same thing, as long as they're not the same. Now, please apologize to Rarity" the teacher said.
"I'm sorry, Rarity" Destiny said, gritting her teeth because of her humiliation.
"It's okay" Rarity said smiling sweetly at her. Destiny rolled her eyes and went back at her seat, with a irritated look.
"Continue" Rarity heard her teacher say. Rarity smiled at her classmates, her confidence growing stronger.
"Well...this dress symbolizes my want for being a fashionista. I would like to grow up and become one of the best dress designers in all of Equestria!" Rarity said looking at the dress admirably.
"I'm sure you will, I haven't seen a pony put so much effort in something. Tell me, did you make this yourself?"
"Yes, I had ups and downs in the making, but I think it came out to be success"
"Yes you did. A round of applause for Rarity!" Miss Ruby said, also applauding. Rarity bowed down and straighten herself, as she made her way to her desk. It was the first time she had received this type of response, and she liked it. Distracted on her own thoughts, she didn't catch Destiny's vengeful gaze.
~
The image faded, I opened my eyes and saw Destiny's pleased face. My eyes wandered around aimlessly,my eyes trying adjust at the darkness of the cave.
"*Ahem* So what do you think?" Destiny's voice echoed in my head.
"B-but this happened years ago, what does this have to do with anything?" I asked. Her eyes widened and smirk to show her annoyance towards me
"Did you even pay attention? I was supposed to get a better grade than you, but YOU had to go and ruin it! I spent my whole life going from town to town, trying to sell my dresses, but nopony would. How do you think that feels?"
"Destiny, why are you holding this against me?"
"That day, I was a laughing stock, I couldn't look at anyone at the face. They all passed without giving me a look, if they did it would be pity. You made me feel worthless!" Destiny said her voice cracking.
"For a dress?" I asked, this seemed to ridiculous even for me.
"Yes! You didn't just took my idea, but my dream of becoming a fashion designer" she said with a pout, but quickly replaced it with anger.
"Look, I'm sorry I didn't mean to cause all of this" I said lowering my head. I raised my head to add something more"But don't think I'm not angry that you incriminated me for something that isn't even worth fighting!"
"Maybe not for you, Miss I'm better than everypony,but it is for me"
"I do not think I'm better than everypony" I said.
"Whatever"
"Why you-" A question came to me, one I had at the beginning of all this."Why are Spike and Twilight doing here anyway? This is about me not them"
"Let's go through the same process, shall we?" Destiny asked. I gulped and looked back at my friends, they smiled and nodded for me to go on.
"Alright, by the way that spell is painful"
"Yes, but it gives you the opportunity to watch events that happened with or without you. Neat huh?"
"Yes, how did you learn it?"
"That's what you're about to see" I heard a cough from behind and the light on top of me, signified the spell. I prepared for the pain and closed my eyes.
~
Night of the theft
Twilight sat at her desk, reading a few books she had. All the while, Spike was organizing a few other books that were laying in the ground.
"Spike, go to sleep. I'll clean the rest in the morning" Twilight said, earning a chuckle from the dragon.
"No can do Twilight. I'm determined to stay awake until you finish those books" Spike said.
"No, go to sleep" she said with a sigh.
"But I'm not a baby dragon anymore"
"That may be so, I'm still in charge of you" Twilight said, getting up and walking up to him.
"I'm not-" A light interrupted him, it came closer and closer to both of them. They closed their eyes at the sudden change, but managed to see everything, once they got used to it. A cerulean unicorn mare with red mane, and four golden stars on her flank, appeared in front of them. As soon as she saw them, her face turned onto a stern glare, intimidating the two.
"Who are you?" Twilight asked frightened.
"Destiny, your highness, but I'm not here about me. I'm here for you and your little dragon" Destiny said. Something about her seemed off though.
"Why?"
"I need a small favor from you and I'll be out of your mane" Destiny said with a mysterious smile.
Twilight gave a scoff and raised an eyebrow" What makes you think I'll do any kind of favor?"
"You won't have much of a choice" A turquoise aura surrounded Spike and Twilight, making them stay frozen in place. They frantically looked around to release themselves, but Destiny wasn't done talking."I just need a few spells, that's all I'm asking. If you don't agree the pony behind it will suffer a terrible accident, what a shame. But there's no way out, if you agree, the pony will pay for my actions"
"Who are we talking about?"
"Rarity"
"Rarity? Don't you dare do anything to her!" Spike shouted at the less than scared unicorn.
"That's all depending on Twilight" Destiny responded calmly.
"I'm confused" Twilight finally said after thinking for a moment.
"How do I put this? Rarity will commit a crime, and when I say Rarity, I mean me. I need a spell that can make illusions through a camera and a disguise spell. If you don't agree I'll KILL Rarity, and it'll be easier to get my revenge. If you do agree, then she'll be put in jail" Twilight and Spike where slowly understanding what she meant.
"Twilight will never-"
"I'll do it"
"What!?" Spike exclaimed, shocked that Twilight would associate with a pony like this.
"Spike, do you prefer seeing Rarity buried or seeing her alive in jail?" Spike gave a sigh and nodded.
"Alright, but you better keep your promise!" Spike shouted at Destiny.
"As long as you keep yours in not telling Rarity anything or else" Destiny said."Shall we get started?"
Twilight gave a long sigh "Let's" They moved to Twilight's desk, while she lingered behind. She was only doing this for her friends good.
"You were both in this" I said disappointed. Twilight tried to hurriedly think of an explanation, while Spike just stared straight ahead at me.
"Rarity let me explain, we-"
"-weren't supposed to tell you anything, until you found out yourself" Spike said finishing Twilight's sentence.
"And?" I asked arching an eyebrow.
"And that's why we were helping you, well mostly me" Twilight said giving Spike a brief glance. Looking back at me she continued "We weren't supposed to give you any clues as to who was behind it. I couldn't stand seeing you like that, so I was always trying my best for you to at least question me"
"How was I supposed to know two of my friends were behind all of this?" I said anger boiling inside as I spat words that I didn't even mean.
"You're right, but remember I only agreed because I was trying to save you"
"But why couldn't you tell me anything? Were you being tracked or something?" Twilight chuckled nervously and shifted her eyes a bit.
"Actually, yes. She may look stupid, but she's not"
"Hey!" We heard Destiny shout, and for a moment I even forgot she was there." I can still turn you ashes you know!"
"Oh, shut your trap Destiny! Let's us talk for a minute!" Spike shouted sounding irritated, I was slightly surprised at his sudden reaction. Destiny didn't flinch and pretended like she didn't hear him.
Turning my attention back to Twilight, I continued "I'm not angry at you Twilight, neither of you actually. I guess I just feel a little betrayed"
"I understand and I'm sorry" Twilight said hanging her head.
"Yeah Rarity, I'm sorry" Spike said.
"Spike, if you don't mind me asking. Why were you dating her if you knew who she was all along?" I asked, a question that was tormenting me all this time.
"Same reason, she wanted us to praise her. Twilight refused, so I had to do it" Spike said nonchalantly. Wow, what they had to go through. They humiliated themselves for me.
"You did this for me..." I whispered, though they still managed to hear me. I sighed, as a sentiment I never experienced overtook me.
He chuckled sweetly and looked at me straight in the eyes "I love you". Those three words, they finally came out. I always knew he had a crush on me, but never though his feelings would ever be this strong. A laugh ruined the moment and brought my attention to the pony who hadn't spoke much during all this.
"Oh, I can't take all his sappiness" Destiny said putting a hoof on her forehead.
"No one is making you, you could just leave us alone you know!" I shouted at her. She laughed and that made me even angrier.
"I let you off the hook this time, but next time you won't be so lucky" she threatened, though I didn't care.
"Ha! Like that matters to me, you didn't give that same privilege to that pony you murdered. That innocent pony" I said. A thought that I had forgotten, and suddenly came back. Destiny's expression soured and made a serious face, all amusement gone.
"Innocent! That pony was no other than Ms. Ruby!"
"What?!" I yelled. My anger stronger than ever, I even forgot I was in the edge of a cliff, until I almost feel down.
"You thought I was going to kill some random pony?" she asked. Even if I wasn't really close to her, Ms. Ruby would always be in a part of my heart. And now she was dead, for a foolish reason, that even until this moment I didn't understand. A dress. All of this for a dress, this was so childish.
"You monster!" I shouted as tears dripped down my cheeks.
"What do you care? You barely even talked to her"
"She helped me get to where I'm today, I wouldn't be the pony I am now if it weren't for her" I said.
"That's true, maybe you wouldn't be in this mess. But too bad for you" she said sarcastically. "Look around Rarity, you're now my prisoner" Without thinking twice, a laser came out of my horn. A magic surge. This only happened to me once, but I could take it for my advantage.
She cocked an eyebrow and smiled "Oh, you want to this the hard way?" She didn't wait for a response and teleported a few feet away from me. I ran towards her, away from the edge, and lit my horn waiting for the right moment to strike. Destiny was faster though and a red beam came straight at me. I ducked just in time, and the magic impacted with a wall of the cave, making it rumble. I prepared my horn, and blasted it towards her. She didn't even move a muscle and blasted one my way, hitting mine. I gave in as much force, straining as I did so. There was no use, even with a magic surge, she was stronger. Destiny was sweating and so was I, though she still had her hooves on the ground. My legs buckled wanting to give up, but I wasn't going to give her that satisfaction. Pushing a little harder, she was distracted by my sudden change and lost her concentration. She ducked like I did before, but the beam ricocheted, hitting the spot in front of us. That's when I noticed that the floor underneath us was made of glass. The laser made a blast, sending us both back, making me hit a wall. Destiny wasn't so lucky, the blast made a stalactite fall on top of her, killing her instantly. I breathed heavily, trying to get back to my senses, and failed miserably. My vision began to slowly fade, the last thing I heard and saw,was Spike.
"My Pinkie sense told me she is, right aboouuttt... Now!"
As if on cue, there I was staring straight at Pinkie's giant eyes nearing closer. I blinked a few times trying to get the sleep out of my eyes and rubbed them, looking around at my surroundings. My five friends were there, all with looks of relief and Spike with concern. White ceiling, green curtains, matching hospital gown and a heart monitor... Ugh, not the hospital. I looked at myself, noticing my bandaged head and hooves. A few bruises here and there, nothing that serious, but I noticed I was still Almond.
A cough interrupted my train of thought "Are you okay? We can call the nurse if you-"
I interrupted her "No, its alright Twilight. But I do need some time alone, you know to clear my thoughts" I said nervously. She nodded and gestured the others to follow. "Spike, could you stay here?"
"Er... sure?" Spike said approaching the bed. I smiled warmly at him, ready for what I was about to say. After all, I didn't do it because I felt bad for him. But because I really did love him. He sat next to me, watching my every movement, as I made myself more comfortable.
"Firstly, I want to thank you for all you've done for me, Spike" I began, he didn't answer and waited patiently for me to continue " You went through so much trouble, and so did Twilight, just to save me. I also want to apologize, if I ever hurt you. But what I'm trying to say Spike is that... I love you" I finally said.
Spike lifted his head and blinked a few times" W-what?" I didn't answer, lifting his chin, to kiss him. He readily, returned it, caressing my mane and kissing me gently. I always thought our kiss first kiss together, would be a passionate interchange, but this was better. It felt real, as if he had practiced it with me a thousand times before. Just as we were lost in our own little world, the door opened, startling both of us. Rainbow Dash stood wide eyed at the door, and tilted her head.
"Uh- Aren't you guys like family or something?" she asked, and both Spike and I, blushed heavily at her question. Hoof steps were heard and Twilight was revealed, smiling at me. She passed Rainbow and stood in the middle of the room.
"Not exactly" she simply said, and light illuminated the room. A spark emerged from her horn and went straight for me. And before I knew it I was floating on her aura, mouth agape at the sight. By then everypony was inside the room, staring at me. A chorus of "Ohh"s and "Aww"s were heard, as Twilight seemed to be working her magic on me. The aura soon disappeared, and all was quiet. The only sound was my breathing, but it didn't last long.
"RARITY?!" They all exclaimed, except for Twilight and Spike, who already knew. I laughed and cheered, ignoring the questions I was receiving. I was back. I was healed. I was finally me, without having to hide anymore. I got Spike's claw, putting him on my back and together we ran out of the hospital, laughing at our friends running behind us.