> Sometimes, love is more than meets the eye > by AspiringArticulantArtist > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > Sometimes, love is more than meets the eye > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sometimes, love is more than meets the eye Applejack's POV Oh, I really don't know 'bout, you know, the whole... Discord, an Fluttershy thing. I mean, I trust... well, I trust Fluttershy, but I don't know if she completely understands what she's doin'. I am sure that eventually, this will all come to close, but, uh, for now, I guess, I gotta give 'er respect. I mean, this must be really hard on 'er. She doesn't have anypony to turn to for help, because they will probably think Discord did somethin'. But, all I saw, was both of them, he wasn't pressuring her or anything like it. I wanna say he changed, but... I still feel like he is, plotting something, behind all of this. But, he might still like Fluttershy at the end of it. I am gonna check on them. I started walking out of my home, it was, about 7:47 AM. I had already finished all the chores, as I did them early today, to ensure that I could visit Fluttershy and... Discord. As I was nearing her home, I didn't see anyone outside, so I knocked on the door. “Who... uh, who is it? If you don't mind me asking.” Yup, that was Fluttershy. Well, I guess I gotta go in now, don't I? I slowly opened the door, and, well, everything was normal, nothin' outta place. I saw Fluttershy watching me from behind somethin'. “Hey, uh Fluttershy, how's it goin'?” “Oh, uh, fine.” I shut the door now, I guess I gotta ask 'er 'bout Discord now. “So, uh, Fluttershy, can you... tell me more about you and... Discord?” Now she was looking at the floor, blushing. I don't want to make her feel uncomfortable, I just want the truth... from her. “W-well, what do you m-mean, AJ?” “All I’m asking is... are you sure you want this?” I closed my eyes, not wanting to risk a glance at her. “AJ... I...” “Yes...” “If you have come here, to... try to... stop me, then I only have one thing to say to you.” “N-no, nothin' like that, I just want you to have what you want, if you want... him... then I’ll get used to it. I just... don't want anything happening to you.” “Applejack, I understand your concern, but, he's different. He hasn't tried to do anything harmful, against, me, or all of Ponyville. And if he has, I know he is trying to change.” “What about him taking your element?” I didn't want to go there, but, she had herself open to judgment, and I need to, well, I want her to at least be happy with him. “Has he tried to take over Equestria?” “Yes.” “I-I mean after that.” She doesn't realize, he still could. “No.” “And, he's been treating me really nice.” Now she's blushin' mighty red, like an apple. Apple. Oh, I forgot to eat breakfast, ugh. Now I'm hungry. Oh, now my stomach’s growling. “Oh, Applejack, are you hungry? Do you want some breakfast?” “Oh, yes, thank you Fluttershy.” I walked into the kitchen with her, nothing was prepared, I think when I knocked on the door, I woke her up. “Oh, I forgot!” “What Fluttershy?” “I was talking to Discord when you knocked on the door, I hope I don't have him worried.” “You go talk to him then, I will make us breakfast.” “N-no, it's alright, I am sure he will come down here soon, please sit down, I will make breakfast.” “OK, if you say so.” I walked back to her living room, and sat down. I heard, some sort of noise, in the kitchen, it sounded like, when ponies teleport. It must have been Discord. “Oh, Fluttershy where were you?” “Oh, sorry dear, I was talking with Applejack, I started on breakfast, since you made it yesterday.” Discord made breakfast? I wonder how weird it was. “Ah, okay, where is she?” “In the living room.” Oh, I guess he's coming in here, better get ready. “Hello, Applejack, any reason for why you came here?” He was looking at me, he looked playful, but he sounded like he was serious. “I, just wanted to check on Fluttershy, and, you.” He looked... confused? “Oh, OK.” Discord's POV Hmm, I wonder what she really wanted? “Do you need anything?” “Uh, well, I just wanted to spend time with you guys, and... uh, I wanted to see how you act around her.” Does she think I mistreat her? I would never! “I'll have you know, I always treat, my dear, Fluttershy, with my utmost respect and care.” That will show her. “So I have heard. I just want to see you two together in person.” “Uh, okay, I guess, let me ask Fluttershy. Fluttershy dear, is it alright?” “Yes, of course, she just wants to be sure I- er we're okay.” I hope AJ doesn't have anything planned. We had a picnic planned today. Hopefully it goes, alright, even with Applejack tagging along. We went into Fluttershy's garden, so she wasn't so far away from home. We had set up everything and brought the food out. It looks like AJ was actually going to leave us semi-alone. She didn't partake in anything, but still observed us. “So, Fluttershy, having fun?” “Well, I guess, but, I, oh, wish we were... more... alone.” I could barely hear her, she was trying to be quiet so AJ couldn't hear her. I don't want her feeling uncomfortable, so I leaned closer to her, and embraced her. “D-discord?” “What?” “...Don't let go.” I hope AJ gets a good look at this. I held her closer to me, and stroked her mane. This continued for a little bit, until I heard something. Was it... snoring? “Huhhhhhh.... huhhhhhh.” Oh, dear, Fluttershy seems to have fallen asleep. Well, it is about 2:30 PM so I guess a nap is alright. I looked around for AJ but, it seems she has already left. I guess I can snuggle up to Fluttershy now. I hope she sleeps well. I woke up, it was still in the afternoon luckily. I was still back with Fluttershy, but, something felt... off. “Discord? Have you seen.... Flutter...shy...?” Oh.. Twilight... “Uh... yes?” “Wh-what, are y-you.?” “We had a picnic, and she got tired, I figured we could stay out here, and I got tired too. That's all it is.” I felt something moving behind me, Fluttershy? “Huuhhh... Hey Discord.” I heard her yawning behind me, hopefully she can help. “Fluttershy? Are you alright?!” “Wh-what? Twilight, of course I am, why wouldn't I be? Is there somepony bad out there? Oh..o-oh I'l-” “No, I mean, uh, him?!” Humph, she kept pointing her hooves at me, like that will do anything. “What did he do, I hope it wasn't something bad... was it Discord?” “No, nothing, just uh.” I leaned closer, to be sure Twilight wouldn't hear me. “I was sleeping, uh, right next to you, and Twilight, was uh, confused, to say the least.” “Oh... oh. Hehe.” I hope Twilight wouldn't question that giggle. “Twilight, its okay, we just fell asleep. You can ask Applejack.” Oh, yeah, I forgot about her. I need to ask why she left. And how much she saw. “Oh, okay then, I guess I will.” “And, uh sorry for waking you, I didn't see you anywhere in your house, so I got worried.” “Its okay Twilight, I understand.” “Uh, bye.” Oh, finally, felt like that went on forever. “Fluttershy, uh, sorry for not taking you inside, I didn't want to wake you, and I wanted to comfort you an-” “It's fine. I appreciate it. Just, don't do that at night.” “That's why I did, since it was in the afternoon.” Suddenly Fluttershy put on a more serious expression. “Discord... do you think you could, come with me, to visit my friends.” “Maybe... I mean, some of them, not Rainbow Dash that's for sure.” I hated being so blunt with her, but I am used to doing that, I never had any reason to bottle up my emotions, not until now. “Fine, Discord, how about we go find Twilight and AJ, they seem to be, neutral to you.” “Okay, fine.” “But, you have to give me a kiss, if you want me to go.” I hope this wasn't too... weird. “Oh, uh... fine!” She just quickly leaned up, kissed me, on the cheek. Oh, I should return the favor. I leaned in and kissed her, on the lips. “Oh, uh, Discord, uh, lets go now.” “Okay.” I can never get enough of her. Fluttershy's POV We were walking down to Sweet Apple Acre's, because Discord wanted to talk to AJ, something about earlier. I feel so... weird, around him. Not in a bad way, more neutral then anything. He just thinks that because I'm shy that he has to start everything. Especially when it comes down to kissing. I don't think I’ve ever kissed him first, well, maybe a couple times. Oh, I’m getting a little off track, uh, Discord was already by the barn, was I just standing here? I heard a quick poof, and before I knew it, I was next to Discord. “My my Fluttershy, you need to pay more attention to your surroundings, I hadn’t realized you were gone.” I ignored his hypocritical statement and looked for AJ. “Applejack, are you uh, home? Sorry for uh, intruding or anything.” I heard a noise, like a door opening, and shutting. “Don't you worry a thing Fluttershy, you ain't intrudin', y’all are welcome here. The both of you.” I knew she would accept Discord, I just hope the others follow suit. I wonder what Discord wanted? Maybe it was about the Picnic incident. “Ahem, um AJ, I wanted to know when you left our Picnic.” “Right after Twilight, actually, when I saw you two asleep, I left for a bit, and then I saw Twilight, I asked her if she seen you Fluttershy, I wanted to know if y'all woke up yet.” That explains some things. “Do you mean right after Twilight or... about 2 minutes.” “Probably 3.” Why did she have that sly grin on her face? The only thing that happened after Twilight was.. oh, right, kissing Discord. I think I’ll talk to her now. “Uh, um, AJ, did it, uh, by any chance, help boost your belief in Discord?” “Well, y'all do seem like a good couple, well, the way you act at least.” “Oh, now whats that supposed to mean!?” “Calm down now Discord, you know what I mean, y'all are practically opposites, but you are very kind too Discord.” “Better.” “So does that mean you are happy to call him... friend?” I eagerly awaited her response, even after a while she still didn't say a word. I hope she says yes. “I... I suppose so.” YES!!! I knew it I knew it! Oh, calm down Fluttershy you can hold it in. “Really?” “Yes Discord, I truly am happy to call you... friend.” Oh, this is so sweet. Oh, am I crying. Oh don't give me all the attention. “Fluttershy, dear, are you alright, are you, crying?” “Yes, but they are tears of joy.” “Aw shucks Fluttershy. I was just bein' a good friend.” “I know, but this is really important to me, because, well, I want Discord to eventually befriend Twilight and everypony else, and maybe even be respected among the townsfolk.” “Why don't you go see Spike? He's been looking pretty sad the past couple a days.” “Oh, my, is something wrong, i-is he hurt is-” “I don't know, so it might be somethin' personal, so don't bring it up first.” “OK, wanna go now Discord?” “Sure, I don't believe I have apologized to him about that whole, ruling Equestria thing. B-but only because I forgot to!” “Well, then you can talk first.” “Are we off then?” “Why not.” “Bye Applejack, and really, thank you, whether you know or not, this means so much to me.” “You're welcome, you too Discord, bye.” Discord's POV “Is that Spike there? He's just sitting by his, tree. Why isn't he inside or doing anything? And he looks so sad, AJ was right.” “Fluttershy, calm down, we have to be peaceful... huh, never thought I’d say that." “OK, sorry, I got carried away, I'm just nervous.” “I know, I know, but uh do I have to talk first?” “You're not scared are you?” GASP “Me?! I am the god of chaos after all! Why would I be scared of a little baby dragon?” “Because you don't want to hurt his feelings.” The more I thought about it, the more it made sense. I guess I don't. “Fine.” I approached Spike with Fluttershy right behind me. “H-hey S-spike. Uh hows it going?” He looked up at me, his eyes looked wet, there were dry tears all over his face, I think just the sight of this was going to make me, of all ponies... cry. “Oh my gosh, are you alright?” Of course now Fluttershy was immediately next to him, she reacted worse then me. “OH my. Spike, what happened?!” Didn't I just say earlier, 'we have to be peaceful'? “Nothing that would interest you.” “Now now Spike, why not? It seems very serious, you can tell me... uh, us.” I was surprised, so far Spike didn't really care that I was here, he still didn't show any positive emotions to me, but it looks like he can't show them to anypony. “Fluttershy really, just leave me alone.” “Now Spike, she was just trying to help, was it something I did? If so I am truly sorry.” He looked confused for a couple seconds, but went back to being gloomy. “No, it's not you. It's... Twilight.” Hmm, I wonder what Princess Twilight did wrong this time. “W-what did she do?” “It's what she doesn't do.” “Huh?” “I'm sure you know I am her #1 assistant, but, I feel like I don't get respect from anypony around here. Except for you two, Fluttershy helps me, and you are neutral to me Discord, and thanks, I accept your apology... for what exactly?” “For everything I did, from when I you know.. the elements and opposites...” “Oh.” “I promise I am different now, you can ask Fluttershy.” “I'll take your word for it.” It seems like he is feeling somewhat better. “So Spike, how do you think Twilight isn't respecting you?” “Well, she always ignores me, even when I seriously need her. She doesn't care too much for my well being unless everypony else is too.” “Nonsense, I'm sure she worries about you.” “Then why hasn't she done anything for my birthday?” Today was the dragons birthday? Did his 'Pretty much mother, but kind of a sibling too' really forget it? “Oh, I'm sure she has something planned, you're birthday is really important to Twilight.” “What? Because that's when Celestia realized her potential?” “N-no Spike beca-” “Because she got a permanent slave?!” That was harsh, but.. I guess I can see what he's getting at, I feel like that around Celestia sometimes. “Spike! You know she doesn't treat you like that!” “Oh really? Then why do I have to make breakfast, dinner, and any other snack, EVERY DAY. Why do I always have to do ALL of the chores EVERY DAY, and why do I-” “SPIKE!” Whoa, another one of Fluttershy's rare shouting moments. “Spike... I... she must have some reason, it looks like you have a built up anger for her, don't feed on that anger, that won't help anypony. If you won't try to forgive her, try to at least hold back, but not for so long, or things like this happen, or maybe even... worse things.” “I... I... Fluttershy I know it seems like it, but it isn't anger that's fueling me... well, not entirely.” Wow... so dramatic, huh, drama queens. “Well then Spike, what is it, what is holding you back from all of your anger and other feelings.” “Promise you won't tell anypony, both of you.” “Pinkie Promise.” Stick a cupcake in my eye, cross my heart and hope to blah blah blah. “Discord?” “Pinkie Promise.” Spike's POV “I... I...” “Yes?” “Please don't laugh. Please don't run away.” “On with it, we don't have all day.” “We will if we need to.” They really are trying, huh? I guess my secret will be safe with them. “I don't have a crush on Rarity anymore.” “What?! Is that it?!” “Let me finish.” “Quiet Discord, continue.” “I do have a crush on somepony though. Uh, not any of you guys.” Why do I sound so dramatic, I just.. I don't want to say it... I know they will be grossed out. “Spike, seriously though, stop stalling, I don't mean to be rude but you will go on for who knows how long.” Fine... “I have a crush... on... Twilight...” Oh, I can't look, I just know Fluttershy's gonna run away, and Discord is gonna laugh and tell everypony. “I... uh... I can kind of understand, do you do all of those things because you don't want to disappoint her?” “I... guess, but I did that with Rarity, and I don't like her anymore, and I know Twi doesn't like me back.” “Did you ask her?” “Well... no, but I am sure-” “I wasn't sure Fluttershy liked me but I took the more physical approach, and now we are-” “D-discord?” “What... oh... yeah, we're dating by the way Spike.” “Discord t-that's not what I... never mind, good example.” “You guys are... dating? Like, Fluttershy, Discord is your special somepony?” “Yes he is.” She must be so nervous, she is hiding behind Discord. “What did you mean by a more 'physical approach' Discord?” “I uh- kissed her.” “Actually, I believe I k-kissed you first. Remember Discord?” “Oh right, when you tried to hug me.” “Plus you did more then physical action, we bonded a lot first.” “Hmm, mayb-” “Now Spike, you have to think about what would work, it isn't always kissing or something set up, sometimes it just works in the moment.” I guess I can see that. But that doesn't really guarantee anything. “Is it alright if I hang out with you guys for a while. I just don't want to see Twilight right now, and I want to sit down with friends that I trust.” “Does that include me?” “Yes, Discord, you have never harmed me, and you seem to be good, not just to Fluttershy, as long as you keep my secret.” He smiled, I guess I can call him friend. “Only if you keep ours.” “Deal.” “Okay, we weren't doing much at my house, but we can still relax.” “Let's go.” As we neared Fluttershy's home, I still had my doubts about their relationship, I didn't question too much about it. “So... you guys are really dating? Like, its official?” “Uh, yeah. Why you asking Spike?” “Jealous?” “Discord, be quiet, and Spike, if it boosts your confidence, maybe you can think of it like you and Twilight.” I guess it could be like it. Except for a few differences. “Does anypony else know about you two?” “Only AJ, she uh... kind of... caught us kissing.” She didn't hide behind Discord again at least, mostly because her couch is wider. “Does she just trust you?” “Well, I'm sure she does, but she also asked to watch us on a dat- er, picnic we went on. Afterwords she seemed satisfied.” “What all did you do on your picnic?” “We ate food... and... c-cuddled.” “Well, I guess I can see you doing that Fluttershy.” “Actually, it was me.” “R-really?” “Yes, I didn't want my dear Fluttershy feeling awkward or anything. So I cuddled her, even with AJ watching. By the way we kissed there too.” “Did AJ see that?” “Yes, I didn't really want her to, but I don't really care, I am not scared about our relationship, I just don't tell anypony or do anything too risque for Fluttershy's sake.” I can't really see them as a couple, but sometimes, love is more than meets the eye. Maybe Twilight will at least still respect me if I tell her. But I just can't. I really want to, but I am too scared. I am just a little dragon after all, we may be only a few years apart, but I haven't really developed too much, she has practically became a god! Oh, what if she uses her magic on me, or something, who knows what she would do. But... calm down Spike, she wouldn't do that to you. “Uh, Spike, you alright there?” I completely forgot I was here. “Oh... yeah... no... not really.” “Whats the matter?” “I want to tell Twilight, but I just don't have the courage.” They stopped paying attention to me after that, they weren't ignoring me or anything, just whispering to each other. After a while, they finally came to a conclusion. “Spike, we have an idea.” Hopefully it was Fluttershy's “I know you are probably okay with our relationship, but I have decided to tell everypony. Maybe when I do that, you can be brave too.” “So if you tell everyone about you two, you think I should tell Twi?” “Yes, Spike, as long as you are sure you want to.” I really am... “You guys really don't have to do this for me.” I mean, I do still appreciate it. “Nonsense, we only want to do it to help you, and we shouldn't hide our feelings either. If nopony wants any of it, then too bad. We are together for us, not for someone else, so if they don't like it, then that's their problem, they can't stop true love, no matter any kind of possible difference, love is love, unique yet simple, special and positive. And love only concerns those in it.” Wow... did they like write a whole speech or something? “Thank you... I will at least try to tell her.” “I can't promise anything though, even if I want to.” I might still have fear overcome me, or anger, or if she says no and hates me forever, then it could be depression, or angst or... “Spike, do you want to go now?” “W-what?! Not now, not this early!” I can't go now! What would I say?! “Okay... how about I make lunch, you made Breakfast earlier Fluttershy.” “Oh, I guess you can, would you like anything special, Spike?” “No thank you, whatever you have is fine.” “N-no really, I don't mind.” “Its okay, I don't want to trouble you... unless you happened to have any... jewels?” I can't help it, they are just so delicious. “I can get you some, with my magic, I should be able to teleport some here.” “Discord, promise you won't steal from anypony.” “Promise.” POOF A whole sack of gems lay in front of us, Discord sure got a lot. “I don't think I can eat all of them.” “Then I guess we'll have to save them won't we?” “For future visits?” “I guess, I don't suppose Fluttershy or her animals could eat any.” “OK then.” After lunch I decided I would tell AJ at least about my crush. Fluttershy and Discord decided to put their announcement on hiatus. I would wait for them to tell Twilight about mine. “Do you want to go see AJ now Spike?” “OK.” And we were off. Fluttershy's POV We were walking down to Spike's and Twilight's home, when all of a sudden something moving at supersonic speeds almost crashed into us. Something metallic. “Eeep!” I couldn't restrain myself, I leaped into Discord and knocked him over, at least he didn't fall on Spike. “What is it Fluttershy? I will protect you!” Oh, Discord, this is why I.. uh... yeah... “Um.. sorry about that...” However, when we looked at the direction it came from, we saw something unexpected. The CMC! We talked with them for a bit, apparently they wanted to try out for some new way of getting cutie marks, so surprising. They were going to be, uh, 'assistant assist-ers', I think they said. They wanted to help Spike, and eventually, Spike reluctantly agreed. I guess he will have to talk to AJ later then. We were looking around town, for anypony in distress, so we can maybe raise Discord's respect around here. Most ponies ignore him, but more ponies dislike than like him, I know that for sure... if only they knew him at all. Surely they would forgive him, if they knew the complete story. “Hey, um, Discord. We have been dating for a couple weeks now. I was wondering... if.. you, uh, would like to go out to dinner?” I could still be really nervous around him. We had kissed before, usually him kissing first. Yet I still had trouble just asking him out on a date. Oh sweet, timid me, some day I won't be like this. Even if it will take years, I got to try. “Nah, I'll pass.” “W-what?!” “Haha, just kidding! Of course I will! Did you really think I would say no to you, the sweet and beautiful Fluttershy?” Oh, I forget his nature. I didn't find it too annoying though, as his sweetness, may soon rival mine. Well, maybe flirting is more the word. “O-oh, D-discord. Um.. thank you?” “Ah, the pleasures all mine.” Oh, he is becoming quite the gentlecolt, er, draconequus. Sometimes I forget he is the living embodiment of chaos, also that he is the last of his species. He doesn't cause too much harm, well, unless if somepony is hurting me. Like that one gryphon. Gilda, was it? Yeah, I told him about her, and... come to think of it, nopony has seen her in a long time. She must realize she wasn't welcome here... well, not just because she was a gryphon or anything. J-just her personality, I mean, sure we could probably help her. But she wouldn't even try, she even tried to get Dashie to leave with her. If she didn't want to visit one of her best friends, or even be nice to her friends, then she should just leave us alone... and she did. I guess. Of course, I almost completely forgot what was going on, luckily Discord got my attention. “What are you thinking about Shy?” Ooh, a nickname. Maybe I should give.... Dissy... one. Hehe. “Oh, nothing... Dissy.” “Dissy? What kind of nickname is that?” “Well, I like it, and for your information, 'Shy' isn't that good of a nickname either.” “Well, I wanted to call you something new, can't call you Flutters, remember?” “Oh, well, can you try and find a different one, just, it seems like you might be... insulting me... or something.” “...Oh... well.. I assure you, I didn't mean it that way... uh... Butterfly?” “You know, we don't have to have nicknames, but, I like calling you Dissy. And, if you want... you c-could keep calling me... d-darling.” “Hmm, alright... darling.” He whispered it so gently into my ear, it.. made me feel... weird. But I really liked it! I was probably blushing madly! Oh, just thinking about that makes me blush even more.. and... “When are we going to eat. I mean, I could easily teleport us to your garden, so we can eat whenever you want.” Oh, I hope he isn't too worried about this. “A-actually, I wanted to eat out in P-ponyville. In Sugar Cube Corner.” “R-really?!” “But everypony would see!” “E-exactly...” “Oh.. Are you s-sure?” “...Of course I am. I shouldn't be afraid to be... your marefriend.” I should be happy to be his marefriend... well... I am, but I don't like pretending we're friends around all the other girls. Well, excluding Applejack. “So when do you want to go?” I hadn't put too much thought into it actually. “Uh... why not.. now?” He looked shocked. “B-but, we aren't ready!” “What, did you want to dress for the occasion? Didn't expect you to be that into fashion.” “Oh now dear, I simply can't go out looking like this.” “Like what?” “W-well, I just want to be dressed for the occasion, and I wanted to give you something.” “Fine. And what exactly.” He snapped his talon, and after a quick, short lived flash, a beautiful green dress, similar to the one from the gala appeared. It was surprisingly basic for a 'fancy' dress. I personally loved the tiny ruffles at the top and bottom. “Wow, this is really good and all, but you made it seem like it would be something Rarity would wear to a wedding!” “You d-don't like it?” For a second he looked like he was going to cry. Oh, poor thing. “N-no, uh, I mean, I do like it. I am just surprised that it is so basic.” Finally that smile of his was back. “Well, that’s because you are one of the few ponies to have natural beauty. No makeup, no surgery, all natural, and most of all, absolutely gorgeous.” Oh... my... “D-discord. I-I...” “Is somethin-” “Mmph...” I wasted no time with the kiss, wanting to have the best experience. Before I knew it, Discord was at it too. I would of never stopped, but I remembered something... we were out in Ponyville... in the open... Quickly I pulled back, breaking the kiss, accidentally pushing Discord. “F-fluttershy, is anything wrong?” “We're out in the open.” I looked around, and thank Celestia, nopony was in sight, no traces of anypony anywhere... is this good or bad? But then I saw something... absolutely terrifying, more so than anything I have ever seen in my life. I saw a rainbow trail... and It seems it came from right behind us. On no... oh no, no, no, no, no, no. Rainbow had seen it. She had seen the kiss. Oh no, what would she do? Is she going to tell everypony? “D-discord.” “Yes?” “I think Rainbow just saw us kissing.” “What!?” Rainbow Dash's POV Ohmygoshohmygoshohmygosh! Did I just see Discord kissing Fluttershy?! I saw her push him away. I can't believe Discord would do something so sick! I gotta tell Twilight! > Rumors aren't always based on lies > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was a late afternoon. The day was quite eventful so far, but now it seems it has calmed down. There were still some things that needed to be done. They needed some party supplies. Spike's birthday was today, they would never forget! They had to give him the best party they possibly could. They had actually been preparing for a while now, so they had been quite... different. They spent most of there time preparing it, except for Fluttershy, she hadn't shown up. At first they ignored it, she would pop in at some time. Surely she knew about this, right? Unless something was wrong... what if something happened to her. What if it was something terrible. Oh, I need to just pay attention, it must be nothing. I'll give it one more hour. If she isn't here, I’ll ask Rainbow to go look for her. If she isn't at her house, she must be in Ponyville. Twilight's POV Now I am getting worried. It has been two hours. I will have to send Rainbow, I hope Fluttershy is fine. I don't care how much of a fool I might look like. “Um, Rainbow Dash, can you come here for a second?” The rainbow colored Pegasus turned her head abruptly, slightly startled from my sudden seriousness. After placing down some streamers she was hanging up, she headed over to me. “Yes, Twilight?” I put on the most serious face I could muster. “Why hasn't Fluttershy been helping us?” Suddenly Rainbow Dash looked away. Was she hiding something? “I-I d-dunno. M-maybe she doesn't know we're d-doing this?” She seemed... off. She definitely knew something that she didn't want to. The question is, what exactly? “Didn't you tell her?” Now she way looking straight down. Something definitely happened. “A-actually... n-no.” What? All this time, that was it? “Why not?” “W-well I tried to! I-it's just... the new Daring Do comic came out this week. And I really wanted to finish it, even if I should have saved it, so I could spend more time reading it, and, well, I kinda, stayed up all night long reading it.” That was it? I have done that probably thousands of times! “And I kinda, woke up late... like, really late. That day I didn't have any time to get Fluttershy, I tried to clear as many clouds as I could, to make up for the rest of the day.” Hmm, reasonable. “And then I was tired enough to fall asleep, at the right time, so I could wake up early. And I did, luckily. I first started my day by going straight to the clouds, bucking as much as I could, I wanted to leave early. I checked Ponyville first, since it was closer, and I saw this new shop set up. I got kinda curious, so I went for a closer look, and it was a stand selling Daring Do comics!” I looked up at Rainbow, she was feeling better, at least, it looked like it. “Don't you already have all of the comics?” She looked at me, confused for a second. “Oh, yeah, I forgot to mention, the salespony at the stand was talking to everypony around him. He seemed to be one of the actual ponies that work on the Daring Do comics. They even had somepony cosplaying as her! She looked just like her! B-but anyways, I was listening to what he was saying, and he said the comics were selling at an all time high. He also said that we, the loyal fans of the Daring Do series, deserve a reward.” She looked even more excited now. What happened to that sad and guilty expression a few minutes ago? “What kind of reward?” “He said the first pony to show him that they had a full collection of every single comic, regardless of the fact that it is or isn't first edition, he would give them the next comic of the series. It wasn't even out yet!” That seemed kinda fishy. “Are you sure it was real? Sounds like a scam to me.” She looked confused... again. “Oh, n-no, remember that comic I was reading when AJ and... and Spike got... um, k-kidnapped?” Now she was sad again. “Yes, but remember Celestia and Rarity found them.” “Twi, I know they're fine. AJ is right there for Pete’s sake.” She moved her hoof up, and pointed at Applejack, who turned upon hearing her name. She eventually moved back, and starting working again, but she is probably listening in on our conversation now. “Anyways, the comic I was reading then, was the same comic I got from the salespony, actually, same day too.” I guess she just kept getting interrupted, I know how that feels. “So, you just never had enough time?” “Well... yeah... but I had so many opportunities to tell her! I am so sorry Twilight! I wasn't loyal..” I heard hoofsteps behind her. And saw a yellow mane. “Now listen, you tried your best, you hear? Ah'm sure we can still go get 'er now.” “I was actually going to ask her that.” Rainbows face lit up. “Oh, I will, I will! I'll go right now!” She zoomed off, hopefully heading the right way. “So, uh ,Twi, when should we get Spike? I mean, we're almost done.” “When Fluttershy gets here. I think she doesn't even know about the party.” “Okay.” 10 minutes later Rainbow Dash's POV Oh! Is that Fluttershy? Whats she doing with Discord? They're talking to each other about something. I guess I'll get her after their conversation, I need to stop doing that. I wonder what they're talking about. Whatever it is, Fluttershy is blushing real hard. Maybe I should jump in? No... gotta at least give Discord a chance. But, with everything Discord says she just seems to get more nervous. I'll give him maybe.. 3 more minutes before I... Oh my... what the... Did he just kiss her?! Ohmygoshohmygoshohmygosh! Did I just see Discord kissing Fluttershy?! I saw her push him away. I can't believe Discord would do something so sick! I gotta tell Twilight! Oh, but what if it wasn't a kiss, uh, it c-could of been anything really, I didn't spend too much time looking, um... maybe I should go ask them? Surely this was a misunderstanding, I don't want to go spreading lies now. Uh, I think they are calling me back... I guess I'll ask them. Discord's POV “Fluttershy, she's coming back!” “Oh, w-what do we say?! She's gonna ask about that k-kiss.” I looked around nervously, as if that would help anything. What would I say? Should I lie to her? Or maybe just distract her? “Fluttershy think of something!” I had Fluttershy all nervous too. We were both freaking out, we couldn't decide on what to say. “D-discord, find a way to change the subject or distract her or something! Oh... maybe she was looking for us... ask her if she wanted anything.” Almost right after Fluttershy finished her sentence, Rainbow Dash landed next to us, she looked nervous too. “Uh... F-fluttershy I uh... thought I... might have... s-seen something... b-but it was probably nothing. So uh, what were you guys d-doin just earlier?” Now's my chance. “We were surprised to s-see you... d-did you want anything?” I hope she doesn't notice anything strange. “Oh yeah! I almost forgot... Fluttershy I was... supposed to tell you about something a week ago, but I never got around to doing it.” It looked as if Rainbow completely forgot about everything, we sure got lucky. “Oh, don't worry Rainbow, you can tell me now.” “W-well, you know what today is, right?” “Uh... Spikes birthday?” “Um.. yeah actually, and, we were planning a party about a week ago.” Fluttershy's eyes lit up. “I knew it! Uh, Rainbow, Spike was talking with us earlier, and by the looks of it, he was really upset, but he thought you girls all forgot about his birthday. He thought you forgot about him.” “Ohmygosh, really?! We were trying to make it a surprise party, but not if it is gonna hurt his feelings so bad. Anyways, we wanted you to help us finish it, I was supposed to tell you a while ago.” She must have had some excuse for forgetting for a whole week, but before I get into that... “I don't suppose I could help?” Rainbow looked at me with a confused look in her eyes. “I don't know... you might mess something up...” Time for Fluttershy to defend me. “Actually, Rainbow, I'm sure he would be more than happy to cooperate, and help the party without causing any damage in the slightest.” “It is for Spike after all, he deserves some kind of recognition.” Rainbow continued to be surprised, she looked so stupid... sorry Fluttershy, but I just had to think about it. “Well, do you want to go there now?” “Well, of course.” Twilight's POV Rainbow had been gone awhile, hopefully nothing happened. Hopefully Fluttershy gets here safely... Who else could interrupt them... oh... right... Discord... I completely forgot about him. Fluttershy is definitely bringing him with her. I imagine with her with him, he won't be too big of an issue. The thing I should be worrying about is the spell! Oh dear Celestia I hope it works! I'm sure Spike would really appreciate it. Not just about the effort, but mostly the... well, the... I don't know how to put it, but I know this will blow all the other presents out of the water! I want the spell to be a surprise though. I haven't told anypony about it. I've been training my magic the past week in secret specifically for it. I know I have wasted a lot of Spike's time, but this will definitely pay off! Well, as long as the party goes on without a hitch. Speaking of party, I think it is almost time to get Spike. Sadly it can't be me, I have to hide the spell. Don't wanna spoil the secret. THUD “Oh?” 3 figures quickly flew in, one with a rainbow mane, another Pegasus, but with a simple light pink mane, and just as expected, Discord. “Oh? Dear Fluttershy it is quite late, don't you think?” Rarity was awfully quiet earlier. She seemed to be making something, something of silk and gems. “Oh, sorry but-” “No, I'm the one that's sorry, I forgot to tell her and.. wait didn't you already hear my confession?” “Oh, well.. uh.. sorry.” Rarity quickly looked backed to her project. She was blushing too, she must have been paying a lot of attention into what she was making if she managed to miss earlier. “Ahem, uh, excuse me, b-but are you almost done here? I m-mean, not that I'm trying to rush you or anything b-but, it is getting dark.” I guess now or never. “Fluttershy, so sorry but we should be done, so you don't have anything to contribute to the party. I was just going to go- … er, get ready.” Almost spilled the beans. “Oh, don't worry Twilight, I appreciate your concern but I feel I have already helped Spike at least.” What? With what? Oh, never mind, it is getting far too late. “Ahem, Discord, could you go call Spike and lead him up here? Please don't say anything about a party, we need this to stay a surprise.” Rarity and Rainbow Dash both looked shocked. “What?! Why him!?” There words would've sounded hateful, if not for the obvious jealousy coming from their tones and facial expressions. “Discord is probably the best here at keeping a secret, or at least pretending like everything is normal.” “Ah, don't really believe the first one, no offense, but ah sure can see the second happinin'.” Everypony was looking around at each other, I was studying their reactions, they seemed satisfied with at least the latter of my statement too. “Well, I guess I'll be off then, do get ready!” Discord snapped his fingers and he was gone. Now I have to get that spell to work... where should I hide? Oh, how about I construct a hidden door. Only I would know about it's whereabouts, I could perform the spell in there, I hope it doesn't take too long. Spike's POV Great, what do I do now? The CMC finally left, Discord and Fluttershy aren't home, and neither is Applejack. Am I going to spend my birthday alone? Knock knock knock Oh? I forgot we were still open. “Hello, welcome to... Discord?” “Oh, yes, hello Spike, do you think you could come here for a second?” “Go where?” “Oh just... follow me. I want to show you something.” “Show me what?” “Uh, how about we talk more about Twilight on the way there? Might make you feel better?” Why is he bringing this up now? “Oh, uh, OK. Well, I haven't seen her for a while. She left this morning, before I even woke up! If I hadn't finally found her note I would have still been looking for her! Have you seen her around?” “Oh, um... not really.” I wonder where she is... “Oh, how about we talk somewhere more private?” “Uh... I guess...” I mean, I wouldn't want anypony to hear us, especially not Twilight. “See that building over there?” Discord used his eagle claw to point towards a building a good distance away, it looked secluded, no one was nearby. “That's kind far aw- poof“ I suddenly got closer to the building, I was already at the front door. “Oh... right... “ Discord opened the door, revealing a very dark room. Where was the light switch? “Go on in, the switch is probably by the door.” “OK.” I walked in, I couldn't see anything but I felt like somepony was watching me. “And another thing about Twilight, oh, I found the switch.” click “As I was...” I turned around, there were... party decorations? They were everywhere. Why did Disc- “SURPRISE!!!” Oh my... It's it's all of Twilight's friends, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Applejack, even Fluttershy. But Twilight wasn't there. “Happy birthday Spike!” They... they did remember. “Aww, Spike, why are you crying, we are throwing you the awesome party ever!” “Pinkie, those are tears of joy.” “His tears are happy? Good for them!” “What? No Pinkie, he's crying because he is happy.” “What? That doesn't make any sense.” “sigh, it's because he can't hold his happiness back.” “Oh.. yay, that's a good thing right?” “Yes, in this specific situation, it is good.” “Yay!” I looked around the rest of the room, I saw one table, full of different meals, even a whole bowl full of gems... and another table, but all the was on it was just casual birthday decorations, and then a third and final table. It had 6 presents on it. I could see the name tags on them, there was one from everypony... everypony but Twilight. “Soooo Spike, whaddya wanna do first?!” I can't let this bring me down, especially not now. “I am kinda hungry...” “You heard the dragon! Oh, and Spike, one more thing, come here a second.” The other ponies and draconequus walked over to the left table, the one with all the food on it. “I saw you eyein' those presents over there, you looked sad. What's the matter? You can tell me.” Wow, Pinkie Pie sounded... sane? I thought Discord and Fluttershy was weird, but this takes the cake... oh cake, maybe I should eat some cake. “Spike? Hellooo.” “Huh, oh right. Well, I noticed none of those gifts over there had Twilight's name on it.” “What? Don't be silly! Twilight wouldn't forget your present.” “Then where is it?” “She's saving for the end.” “Wait, so she is here? Where?” “I have no idea.” “What?” “Well, before you walked in, we all quickly hid, I saw her use some magic to hide, so I don't know where she could be now. But I know she would never forget your present. I Pinkie Promise.” “Really?” “Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye.” After wiping the cupcake she squished into her face, she finally seemed like herself again. “Come on now Spike, lets go eat.” After we finished most of the food, all but the cake, Pinkie asked me if we should have cake before, or after presents. “Before, isn't that how most ponies do it?” “Yes, now Twi- oh... Rarity, can you use your magic to cut the cake into 8 slices?” “Why, of course darling.” Rarity then proceeded to cut the cake. I wonder what we will do with the 8th slice. After all slices were cut, each pony, myself, and Discord took one slice, leaving one remaining piece. The cake was delicious, even more so because I saved a few of the gems from earlier, and sprinkled them onto my piece. After a few minutes of idle chat, Pinkie Pie spoke up again. “Now, I am sure everypony knows what time it is now... PRESENTS! YAY! Everypony line up beside your gift. Spike, walk down and open each present.” Each pony had lined up, the pattern being Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Applejack, Discord, and lastly Fluttershy. No Twilight. The first present was a book, I looked at the back and discovered it was the second in a series. I remember getting the first one back at the Traders Exchange some time ago. “I thought you would like it, personally this series isn't as good as daring do, but its alright.” The second was a gorgeous scarf, with various jewels in a certain pattern going around the edges. “I just thought you would look just fabulous in this darling. The third was a... jewel? It looked normal. “This is a special jewel I remember finding back when I was a filly! Every time I saw it, it was a different color, hopefully you like it Spike!” The fourth was a.. pickaxe? “I know you like gems Spike, and not to far away from my Farm I found a cave, I never seen any folks go in there, so I claimed it for the Apple family, even got a certification here from the mayor. You could mine there, I saw hundreds of gems down there, you could keep any you find.” She held up a paper, and sure enough, 'Mayor Mare' was signed at the bottom. The fifth was a staff of some sorts, along with it was a note Discord dropped quickly, which read 'Twilight is still here, I can sense her using magic somewhere really close by. →' I looked to the right, all I saw was Fluttershy and... no, it must be my imagination, I could have sworn I saw a spark come from the wall. “I know being a dragon you don't have any magical properties, and with all the fun I have, I figured you would like the ability. Whenever you are practicing magic with Twilight, try to use this.” And lastly the sixth and final gift. It was a sizable container, but it must be what is in it. “I brewed up a tea using one of my most rarest flowers, I only had enough to make enough tea to serve two ponies though.” I wonder who I should give the other half to? I noticed some of the ponies realized Twilight hadn't brought a present. Pinkie Pie started looking weird and somehow a bolt of lightning shot out from her to the wall. It didn't ignite it, but it left... a door? Or did it reveal a door? Suddenly somepony knocked on it. “Ahem, Spike? Could you come here a second? I have your gift.” It was Twilight's voice. She really was here. “Twilight? Is that you?” “Yes, now open the door Spike, I finally got it ready.” The newly discovered 7th present. I opened the door, but Twilight was nowhere to be seen, only a purple dragon with the same scale type as mine, but the body was a darker purple then mine, and the scales were more dark violet. “Spike... do you like it?” The voice of Twilight came from the dragon. “Tw-tw-twilight?! You're a dragon?!” The dragon nodded her head yes, and upon hearing me, the other ponies in the room walked to the door and saw the dragon. “Oh my.” “Hmm, interesting.” “What in tarnation?” “Woah! You're a dragon. I should throw you a party!” “Darling, your mane is gone, and you don't have any hooves. I need my fainting couch.” “That is so awesome!” After everypony calmed down, Twilight spoke up again. “Well, do you like it?” “I... I..” What do I say?! “I...” Suddenly something that felt like a hoof pushed me and I accidentally pulled Twilight into a hug, my head resting under hers. I didn't regret pulling her as close as possible. “I'll take that as a yes.” I heard a giggle come from her, and I slowly let go. I didn't say anything for the last 5 minutes of the party. “Well, it's really late now. We should all head home.” Discord teleported himself and Fluttershy home. Rainbow dashed away, creating a sonic rainboom. Rarity and Applejack walked off, eventually parting ways. Pinkie Pie pulled some.. device, and shot something orange all the way back in Ponyville, then she turned and shot a wall. Somehow a blue portal appeared and you could see into Sugar Cube Corner. “Bye!” Pinkie Pie walked through the portal, and eventually it closed. “What the heck was that?” I finally snapped back to reality. “Just Pinkie Pie being Pinkie Pie.” “OK...I guess?” “Anyways, we should head home now. Come on Twi.” Twilight and I walked home, she had to lean on me because she wasn't used to walking on two hooves, er, claws. “So, Spike, what do you wanna do now?” “What?” “I haven't hung out with you in ages! I spent most of my time planning the party, and getting this spell ready.” It finally made sense. “I'm kinda tired, can we do something tomorrow?” “Oh, OK, sure Spike.” We walked upstairs and sat on Twilight's bed. “Twi, can we talk for a minute?” “Sure” Twilight sat down next to me. “Did you give those chores and leave early because of the party?” “Well, yeah. I am really sorry, I promise I'll do all of the chores for a whole week. Sound good?” “Twi, you don't have to do that. I just wanted to know. But next time you throw a party, let me know. The past week hasn't been fun. Especially because I thought you forgot about my birthday.” “What? I would never forget that. It wasn't just the day I became Celestia's student, it was the day I had found you. I was so excited when she agreed to let me have my own assistant. Even more so when you could come with me to Ponyville. Eventually you started going to Rarity's a lot more than you did here. I thought you wanted to leave. I just had to make the best party I possibly could, I need you to know how much you mean to me. Not just as an assistant, you are my best friend, and we go way back. Before we know it, I'll have spent more time with you then Shining Armor.” “Twilight.. I... Thank you.” I pulled her into a hug. She was warm, and soft. I could practically, yawn, fall... as.. leep. “Don't worry Spike, I'll be sure to.. Spike?” snoring Twilight's POV “Oh, he fell asleep. Aw, he's so cute, I can't wake him up now. I guess I'll just try and sleep.” “Good night, best friend.” I pulled him close to me use my magic to pull the blanket over us... wait a second, my magic still works as a dragon? How does that even work? I'll ask Zecora later, after all, she's the one who gave me the spell.