> Cinnamon in a Silver Spoon > by Catrlgirl > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > Cutie Mark > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Twist was comfortably in her seat facing her classmates. Well one in particular. A philly one row back and one seat to the right. She watched her chatting amiably with her friend across Applebloom . She was so beautiful with her mane braided that way. However her moment was broken when Cheerilee called the class to attention. “Alright my little ponies. Quiet down. We have a very important lesson to cover today. Cutie marks.” Twist turned around straightening her purple glasses. “You can all see my cutie mark, can’t you? The flowers represent my desire to see my little ponies bloom if I nurture them with knowledge. The smiles symbolize the cheer I hope to give my students while they’re learning.” Twist looked to her side and behind her at all the different cutie marks. And then she looked at her. What did her cutie mark mean? A silver spoon. It was something precious, and it served a purpose. But if it wasn’t cared for or in a good environment it would tarnish. Silver spoons need polishing. “Can anyone tell me when a pony gets his or her cutie mark?” Twist raised her hoof waving it about in the front row. Cheerilee nodded at her and the redheaded philly replied. “When she dithcovers what makeths her thpecial.” A few classmates snickered at the way her lisp exaggerated her words. Silver spoon was special. Well they all were special. Cupid next to her got his cutie mark of a bow and heart arrow from helping his older sister find true love. He loved spreading love and happiness. Cheerilee was special because she wanted everyone to be their best and to bloom. Spinner was special because of her talent for ribbon dancing. Twist had to find out what made her special. “APPLEBLOOM!! Are you passing a note? What could be so important that it could not wait until after class? Oh, it’s blank." “Remind you of anypony,” Diamond Tiara said causing the phillies and the colts to laugh at Applebloom. The little redheaded yellow earth pony flushed and attempted to hide under her desk in shame. It was a relief when the bell rang. Swinging her saddlebag over her rump Applebloom slunk out of the classroom along with Twist. The bespecktacled philly nuzzled her friend. “Want some sweets?" She asked trying to cheer up the long faced little philly. "I have some peppermint sticks." She bounced slightly in cheer. "I made them myself." "Nah," Apple bloom said scuffing her hoof in the dirt. "Aw come on, it'll make you smile." Twist lit up with a huge smile. She hated seeing anypony sad. She wanted to spread sweetness and joy to all of her friends. And Twist had never seen anypony stay sad when eating one of her homemade treats. Applebloom left fuming after their second run in with Silver spoon and Diamond Tiara. Twist could totally understand why her friend was so upset. She waved goodbye, managing to catch herself when she nearly tripped over a root balancing on her back legs. Then twist took off after shoving a sweet cinnamon peppermint stick into her mouth. Running across the streets of Ponyville Twist headed to the park. She had some time to kill before her mother got home from the market. That was when she saw her swinging her legs on a bench in the park. 'I thought she was with Diamond Tiara?' Carefully twist followed the park path up to her classmate and said, "Hello, Silver Spoon." "You?" The silver philly sneered over the top of her purple stylish glasses. "What do you want?" “Are you okay? I never sthhee you here after thhcool,” Twist said her lisp made even worse because of the candy in her mouth. "What do you care, blank-flank? It's none of your business what I do." “I’m sthorry. I come here every day to pass out candy." Twist moved past the bench and went about her business. “Good Afternoon, Msth. Bon Bon," Twist said bouncing up to the older mare with the two tone mane. "How are you today?" “Oh I'm fine Twist, dear. Thank you. Just on my way to the market to pick up some things.” "Would you like a pieth of candy? I made it myself." "Oh how sweet of you dear. I'd love one." Bon Bon waved her hooves in the air and yelled, Oh Heartstrings, Heartstings, come here. Twist made some wonderful candy.” “Would you like a pieth too?” The two mares smiled taking the candy before heading towards the market across the park. "If this candy is so good, why would you give it away," Silver spoon asked from behind her. "You should sell it if it's worth anything. That's what my family does." "I don't want to sell it, Thilver Sthpoon. I want to make people happy. Do a good deed." Twist handed a piece to a little colt and his father as they passed by, earning herself a ruffle on the head and a hug from the little one. Silver spoon watched in silence as Twist gave the candy to the passing ponies going about their business while she waited for her mother. Then with a sad smile she shook her head. "Sthorry, Cherrybomb, I don't have anymore.” “It's okay, Twist.” “Twist, honey, come along. We have to hurry home, your father is waiting.” “Momma!!" Twist reached into her saddle bag absently and handed one final piece of the homemade candy to silver spoon. “I hope it makes you sthmile,” she said before dashing of home. When Twist caught up with her mother across the park the older mare gasped. The pretty blue and white mare beamed with pride. “Congratulations, Twist,” she said nuzzling her daughter. “I’m so proud of you.” “Hmm? Whad is it mama?” “Look, baby,” she said. “You got you’re cutie mark.” Twist looked down at the two candy canes that formed a heart shape on her flank. The little Philly leapt with joy. “Schweet!!!” her mother hurried her along towards their home. “Oh, wait until your father sees it. He’ll be so proud of you for finding out what makes you special.” “Yeah!!” Silver spoon sat in the park sucking on the candy cane as she kicked her lower hooves on the bench. Then her friend finally came back. “I’m so sorry, I had to ditch you like that,” she said. “I can’t have anyone knowing about my dress before my totally awesome cuteceañera.” “I understand, Diamond Tiara. I bet you’re going to be the prettiest thing outside of canterlot.” “Oh you know it,” Diamond Tiara replied. “Where’d you get that candy?” The little philly with the lavender glasses blinked. “Oh, just picked it up from a random vendor. You know.” It tasted quite good. Silver Spoon smiled as she followed her friend. “We’re going to have so much fun tonight at my house,” Diamond tiara said. “I have a totally great idea for your main, Silverspoon.” “Really?” “Totally,” Diamond Tiara said. “It’s all the rage in Manehattan. A twisted updo Pretty curls. Come on.” Diamond held up her hooves and Silver Spoon smashed her into them. Bum Bum. A quick elbow touch. “Sugarlump. Rump.” Both of them laughed as their bottoms bumped on the way to the lovely dual level cottage style home that belonged to Diamond Tiara and her family. After that last bite of candy Silver spoon was following her best friend into her house. > Party! party? > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Twi-Shy-Pie- Thank you so much for reading, and yes, Schweet indeed. ^_^ Blake0831. This is a great comment. Hopefully this chapter is better edited. I shall have to invest in a beta reader Diamond Sparkle-OMG!!! So embarrassed. Fixed in this chapter and the first one. I just can’t figure out how to replace the first chapter. Lemming - ^_^ Frizzy, yes it could. I hope you enjoy and keep reading. JKaneH - I can understand it not making sense yet. I’m glad you found it interesting. Stick around. It should all start making sense soon. Thanks all commenters----------------------------------- ------------------------------ Twist looked down at her friend nervously. The little yellow earthpony’s mouth hung open in shock still from the sight of her new cutie mark. “That doeshn’t mean we can’t shtill go to the party together,” Twist said to Applebloom. “You’re shtill gonna’ go to the party, aren’t you?” “Of course she will,” Diamond Tiara said. Twist saw her friend flush in shame at the sneering tone of the pink earth pony passing by. “It’s not, like, being the only pony there without a cutie mark would be, like,” Silver Spoon paused and stared directly at Applebloom with a little curved smile. “The most embarrassing thing ever.” Both of them went on their way laughing as Applebloom ran from Twist’s doorstep. Twist almost ran after her friend but she had a batch of lollipops she had to finish and she didn’t really know what to say anyway. She never did. Twist snorted, scuffing her hoof in the dirt before she went back in to tend to her candy mixture. Why did Silver Spoon and Diamond Tiara have to be so mean? How did they get such pretty cutie marks but act so ugly? What was it that made them special? She carefully pulled her wooden spoon out of the still hot sticky sugar mixture in the metal bowl with her mouth. The wax paper was already ready and so were the sticks. They couldn’t be ugly on the inside, could they? Especially when so pretty outside. “Why are you making so many of the lollipops, dear,” Twist heard he mother ask. The pretty smiling mare grabbed a spoon from a drawer and started spreading the sugar mixture around over the sticks. Twist wish she was that deft with her hooves as her mom. She would be one day, maybe, but she doubted it. She was clumsy. Her legs were too long and she was always tripping. “I want to share them at Diamond Tiara’s cutesheañera .” Twist spread more of the mixture over another plastic stick. These were one of her favorite treats to make. They always made a pony feel special. They made ever little filly and colt she knew smile. Maybe they would help Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon. Maybe they just needed to get to know other ponies. If you didn’t know any different you wouldn’t act any different. Like the candy. If she only made chocolate she’d never have learned to make cinnamon twists. If she only made cinnamon twists she wouldn’t be making lollipops right now. “Oh aren’t you a sweetheart, Twist. I’m sure these will make everypony at the party very happy.” Her mom was right. She wasn’t nice when she wasn’t happy. When she was sad, lonely, or angry, she wasn’t nice. She didn’t have a good time making friends when she was unhappy. Maybe that was the problem they weren’t happy. “Mama you think I can make friendsh with somepony if I make them happy?” “Oh, that is a good place to start. If you make them happy it makes them happy to be around you.” The lollipops cooled, sparkling on the wax paper. They would be perfect to make Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon happy. That might make them happier and maybe they could be friends then. And maybe then they would stop bothering Applebloom. ---------------------- The music was loud and happy several ponies were dancing under the colorful lights strung up in Sugar Cube Corner. “Oh, Diamond, this party is amazing,” Silver spoon said. The pale silver filly took a sip of the sweet punch, careful not to spill it on her dress. Silver Spoon swayed with her best friend as more and more and more ponies came in. She looked amazing in the gown. It was wonderful, especially since it came from the chintzy Carousel Boutique. The presents piled up on the table when Diamond nudged her with her nose. “Look over there; can you believe she dared to show up? And look at what she’s wearing.” Diamond laughed haughtily as Apple Bloom darted behind a decorative pillar. Twist came in, carrying the bag of homemade lollipops in a saddlebag. She smiled as she saw ponies dancing. She placed the bag of candy on the table loaded with presents. The candy was going to be perfect. She hoped it made everypony smile. When she turned towards the punch bowl she saw, Applebloom cowering in a corner and Diamond Tiara holding the sheet Applebloom had been wearing in her mouth. She spat it out and laughed. “Blank flank. I knew she was lying. She’s not special at all.” “And what’s wrong with being a blank flank,” A young pegasus filly, asked. Her coat was burnt orange and she had a purple mane. Her wings fluttered in irritation. “She’s plenty special.” “Yeah,” a young unicorn filly said. “It means we were full of potential. There’s no telling what we could be.” She snorted angrily making her split color mane flutter around her horn. The orange pegasus filly lent Applebloom a hoof up and smiled. “They’re right,” Applebloom said. She narrowed her eyes with her friends behind her. “We’re not stuck being snotty, stuck up, jerks like you.” The sound of clattering hooves rose from all the other ponies in salute and Applejack ran to give her little sister a hug. “I’m so proud of you, sugarcube. And you made some great new friends. I told ya’ these things have a way of working themselves out.” After that minor scandal the party went great. The guest of honor and her best friends ran off and Pinky Pie kept the party lively. Twist got to dance with Applebloom and her new friends Scootaloo and Sweetie Bell. They were super funny and sweet .Scoots did tricks on her scooter and had the sleek machine taken by Mrs. Cake. Sugar Cube Corner apparently was not open for trick riding on the counters. Scoots sat down at a table to mope and Applebloom and Sweetie Bell Joined them. Twist decided to hit the snack table again. As she grabbed a cupcake and some fresh sliced carrots she glanced up and saw Diamond Tiara push Silver Spoon away, knocking the filly down. Diamond stalked out of view and Twist chewed her lower lip, holding her plate balanced on a hoof. Placing the plate on her back Twist headed out the door to the crying filly outside. “Are you okay, Shilver Shpoon?” “You? What do you care, freak? I’m fine,” the bespectacled silver pony said wiping her eyes. Her main had fallen out of its fancy curls. There was dirt on her sparkly dress. “You don’t look fine.” “Leave me alone,” Silver Spoon hissed. She carefully adjusted herself. Then she caught a glimpse of herself in the window reflection. I can’t be seen like this. I can’t be seen with you.” Twist stamped her hoof, Knocking her plate off her back clumsily. “WHY ARE YOU SHO MEAN!? I’m trying ot help me.” “Sorry I ‘m not into dealing with unpopular, idiotic, dweebs. I Just lost my best friend ever and I don’t know if she’ll ever speak to me again. I should have stood up for her.” “Why would you shtand up for a bully? You’re not as mean as Diamond Tiara,why would you want to be?” Silver spoon looked at the ground. “I don’t want to lose my friend. You wouldn’t know what that’s like. You don’t have friends.” “Shilly, I have friendsh. I have Applebloon. Shweetiebell and Scootallo are cool too. I have Cherrybomb and hish brother. If you want shome friends you can’t be mean like thish. You can’t be a bully.” Twist smiled brightly, reaching out to straighten Silver Spoons crooked glasses. “Do you want to be my friend Shilver Spoon?” Tears welled up in Silver Spoon’s pale eyes and she sighed. “I’m a freak now anyway. I’ll never have decent friends again anyway.” “Don’t be like that, Shilver I’m a deshent friend. And you can be one too. Would you like to come to my housh tomorrow to make schweets. It’s a lot of fun.” The silver pony gave a weak awkward nod. Maybe she’d manage to be cool with Diamond again soon and could drop the dweeb. > New week New friends > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Thank you for all comments and Favorites. It means a lot. I know the story is slow going but it will start picking up next chapter. And the chapters will begin getting longer as there is more to cover for the character development. And thank you for all the likes and views. Misstress Catrlgirl. 龙紫色 大好きです。 -------------------------- Silver Spoon lifted her head haughtily and tossed back the long braid she had styled her white silver mane into. ‘You can do this. Everyone loves you. It was just a spat. She had all weekend to get over it.’ After that soothing and bracing thought Silver entered the schoolhouse and heard the chatter cease. She made her way up the rows. She smiled at Diamond Tiara. “Hi, Diamond, how was the rest of your weekend?” The pink filly snorted and cut her eyes sideways at Silver Spoon. The other three young ponies, Amber Berry, Opulence, and Firewing, just laughed at her. “Come on everypony,” Diamond said. “Let’s go be in … more acceptable company. Leave the loser to take up somepony else’s space.” Diamond led her trio of laughing friends away and Silver Spoon stood agape in shock. None of her friends were talking to her. Her best friend had just laughed in her face and walked away. She sat at her desk quietly moping. She guessed it didn’t matter if she moped since she was nopony now. She didn’t have to worry about looking happy and perfect all the time. “Good Morning, Shilver Shpoon,” Twist said, placing her saddle bag on the back of her desk chair in front on Silver Spoon. “How are you?” Silver Spoon sighed, narrowing her eyes behind her glasses. She just dropped her head onto her desk as Twist stared with a quiet smile. “Fine,” the filly said sarcastically. “Just perfect.” “I know shomething ish wrong with you, what ish it? Maybe I can help.” “My best friend just laughed in my face! Ditched me!! Took all my other friends with her and left me here!!! And,” Silver Spoon said pausing to catch her breath with the force of her yelling. “Worst of all I’m stuck sitting here by myself talking to a nopony like you!!” Twist looked down sadly and opened her saddlebags. She reached in a pulled out a piece of candy wrapped in clear plastic and tied with a silver ribbon. “I’m shorry, I Should have known you’d be upshet. Don’t worry,” Twist said handing the little package to the angry Silver Spoon. “You have me. And there are lotsh of ponies who want friends.” In the package was a small crystal spoon with silver and purple sprinkles along the handle. “I made ith with a mold and shprinklesh. It’s jusht like your cutie mark. I hope it makesh you feel better. I want to be friends. ” Silver Spoon blushed, placing the delicate package on her desk carefully with a hoof. Diamond Tiara had never done anything like that for her. Opulence and Firewing had never been so nice to her. “Thank You,” Silver Spoon said. It was hard. She wasn’t used to thanking anypony. She was used to taking and having things given her because of who she was. She wasn’t sure if she liked it. “What is it made out of? It’s so pretty.” “I made it out of shugar Shyrup. My momma helped me. I wanted to make it shpecial, to celebrate a new friend. And I wanted it to be pretty like you.” “What in tarnation are you doing with her,” said the signature drawl of Applebloom. “Are you messin’ with Twist again, Silver Spoon?” “No, Applebloom. She’s my friend.” “Really? Silver Spoon? Sworn Enemy? Name calling jerk and tormenter is your friend?” Scootaloo grinned from behind Applebloom and said, “I guess your special talent isn’t acting. You should see the look on your face.” She wiped an eye in mock tears. Silver Spoon glowered at Applebloom and the other two young fillies. “Don’t be mean, Twist said. “Give her a chance. She’sh trying.” Twist smiled and the other three fillies grudgingly agreed to give her a chance. “Okay,” Scootaloo said. “She was never as bad as Diamond Tiara anyway.” “Yeah, I guess,,” Applebloom replied, cutting her eyes suspiciously at the grey and silver filly. “But, Imma be watchin’ you real close.” Silver spoon rolled her eyes but said nothing. And Twist had to admit even that was an improvement. A step in the right direction. “See, Shilver Shpoon, you have friends now.” ----------------------- Class was uneventful. Silver Spoon ignored the snickering and snide remarks of the fillies and colts that had been her friends last week. It was certainly not fun having to hear it. It hurt and she did not like being hurt. Applebbloom and Sweetie Bell talked in rushed whispers … plans about some kind of crusade from the snatches of conversation she heard. It didn’t interest her much. Twist was listening attentively to Scootaloo rave about Rainbow Dash. “I swear she is only the most awesome, Pegasus to ever flap a wing,” Scootaloo said. “I bet she is unstoppable in the best young flyers competition.” “Isn’t she friendsh with Missh Rarity?” “The Prissy Unicorn? Yeah, but she’s not as cool as the one and Only Rainbow Dash. I keep hoping she’ll notice me. When I finally learn to fly I’ll be right beside her.” Twist laughed at the dreamy swoony expression on Scootaloo’s face. “You shure are inspresshed with Rainbow Dash. I like Mish Rarity better. She’sh shuper nice. And she’s pretty. I love the dresshes she makes.” “Why do you talk like that?” Silver Spoon pushed her question into a break in their conversation. “You sound like you’re spitting all the time. You messed up or something?” Twist blushed. She was so embarrassed about it but you had to be honest with your friends. “No, I’m not meshed up.” Twist opened her mouth wide, glancing carefully up at Ms. Cheerilee. They were lucky she was busy focusing on explaining the history of the Age of Discord. “I got thish. It’s a retainer.” There a curling piece of metal behind her teeth. “It’s hard to talk with it. I got it to fix my teeth. I know it makesh me shound funny.” “Will it be there forever,” Silver Spoon asked. Scootaloo looked intrigued at the metal implant in Twist’s mouth. “No. I’ll only have it for another few weeks.” Twist had to put a lot of effort into speaking to keep from lisping. But she had managed it that time. She hoped it didn’t make her friends not like her. “I didn’t know. I’m glad it fixed your teeth,” Silver Spoon said. “Did it hurt,” Scootaloo asked. “I bet it hurt a lot.” “It hurt a liddle. Not musch.” The bell rang at the end of the class day and Twist and her friends filed out. Silver Spoon stamped her hooves when Firewing brushed past her huffing and slapping her side with a wing. She glared at the bright red Pegasus as he shot up into the sky most likely headed for home. “He’s such a jerk,” Scootaloo, hissed angrily as she stared up at Firewing. “He thinks he’s so hot.” “Yeah, don’t mind him, Silver Spoon,” Sweetie Bell said. Then the little white Unicorn filly blinked in sudden realization. “Want to come and hang out at my place. My big sister and I live at the carousel boutique.” That actually sounded interesting to Silver Spoon. She loved shopping. “You’re big Shishter ish Rarity?” Twist’s eyes widened in absolute shock. She was nearly vibrating with excitement. “Yes, I bet she’s let us play dress up and do makeovers. It’ll be fun.” Twist and Silver Spoon nodded in agreement. Scootaloo shrugged but decided to go anyway since she had nothing better to do. The adventure was on. > Girls in the Parlor > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- I do apologize for the delay. Life caught me off guard a bit. I hop you enjoy this chapter. Thank you to all the commenters and favorites. And watchers, I certainly hope you stick around the story will start changing soon. --------------------------- The five fillies were excited on their trip to The Carousel boutique. It was one of the most popular shops in Ponyville. And Twist was very excited to meet Ms. Rarity. Scootaloo was excited because Sweetie Bell promised to beg her sister to call the one and only Rainbow Dash. “Are you sure she’ll do it, Sweetie Bell? Don’t raise my hopes and then not deliver,” Scootaloo said. The little orange pegasus did a quick spin on her scooter kicking up dust. The little machine dropped and she skidded to a stop a little ahead of the others. “I can’t think of why not. My big sister is a friend of Rainbow Dash. I see her all the time. Well she always runs when Rarity brings out the fabrics.” “I saw her at the party a few days ago. Diamond Tiara’s cuteceañera.” The young filly flushed, her wings fluttering as her friends caught up. “I didn’t get to talk to her though. After what happened between…” Scootaloo paused blinking and staring at Silver Spoon. “Uhm, between. Well she was gone later in the party. A lot of the older ponies were.” Silver Spoon said nothing. She knew they were talking about how she and Diamond Tiara had acted. It was nice that she didn’t mention it. But she deserved that. It was only natural. “What are we going to do at the shop?” It wasn’t a strange question Silver Spoon thought after she asked it but the other fillies blinked in shock. Then Apple Bloom leapt into the air in unabridged excitement. “CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS…. MAKE OVER SPECIALISTS!!!!” “Oh, that’ll be so much fun,” Sweetie bell said. She picked up her pace and led the way down the road to the boutique in the distance. “Sis!! Sis!!!” Applebloom raced to catch up to her friend. Scootaloo snorted and rolled her eyes leaning on her scooter. “Cutie Mark Crusaders Makeover Specialists? I’m not into all that froo-froo stuff.” A swift kick and a flap of her wings sent Scootaloo down the road kicking up a cloud of dust. “You could use a makeover,” Silver Spoon said looking over at Twist. She was in no rush. She didn’t hurry for anyone. They waited for her… if they were worth dealing with anyway. “You look ridiculous.” “Shilver Shpoon!!” “What?” The silver filly looked over the top of her glasses. “You do.” “That’s mean. You don’t shay thingsh like that. ” Twist frowned and narrowed her eyes facing Silver head on. “You have a lot to learn about being friendly.” “What? It’s true. I didn’t do anything. You do look ridiculous. Did you even comb your mane?” Twist sighed. This was not going to be easy. “Lishten Silver Shpoon, there ish a nice way to say things. And a mean way.” Twist spoke very slowly as they started walking again. “You said that in the mean way. I don’t look redi..redica… rediculoush.” Her tongue tripped over the retainer in her mouth and she pouted. “Okay, so I’m supposed to let you walk around looking like that? Come on. I was never that mean. Don’t you want ponies to stop talking about you?” “Of coursh, but that is shallow. I want poniesh to shtop talking about me because they are nice and good. Not becaush I change. If you want to be my friend, if you want to be anyponies friend, you got to like them for who they are not what you make them.” Silver Spoon stepped back and flushed at the heated words coming from Twists normally sweet mouth. Was she right? No of her other friends had ever told her anything like that. Every minor flaw had been a reason to ridicule and destroy. A bad mane day meant you could not sit at the table for lunch. It meant you were ostracized. Twist walked through the door of the boutique and stared at the beautiful white Unicorn hovering brightly colored rolls of fabric. “Oh Sweetie Belle of course you and your little friends can play here. Just be careful of my things. I would however,” she said turning a withering and star down to her younger sister who shrank back in appropriate fear. “Appreciate it if you would give me some forewarning if we are having guests.” Twist blushed watching the way she moved. She was like a ballerina. So light and graceful. “Now would you girls like some tea while my sister stops behaving like she was raised in a barn and introduces you all?” Sweetie Belle blushed and rubbed the back of her hand with a hoof. The rolls of fabrics were neatly placed inside a box next to the door. And then the glow faded from her horn and she turned her full attention on them. “I’m Sorry, Rarity. This is Scootaloo. That is Applebloom. You know her big sister, Applejack.” “Of course. It’s nice to see you again dear.” “And that is Silver Spoon and finally,” she said pointing with her hoof is “Twist.” “Well, welcome girls. Now, about that tea?” The fillies all nodded and followed Rarity across the living room into the kitchen. ------------------------- Silver Spoon took a sip of the sweet honey tea. It was good. Rarity fussed about pouring from a large porcelain pot. Then plates with lovely little sandwiches appeared on the table surrounded by the blue glow of her magic. She chatted with animation with her younger sister and then she yelled. “YOU WANT TO WHAT?” “But, Rarity, we want to do makeovers. What if I get my cutie mark is in fashion?” “Sweetie Belle, dear,” Rarity began. She looked nervously at the fillies at her table. “I do not believe I can trust you with my things.” “Then you can help us, Rarity.” Twist looked up from her seat next to Silver Spoon and looked to Rarity with pleading eyes. “Please, Ms. Rarity,” Applebloom said in her drawl. She jabbed her hoof into Scootaloo’s side and all three of them begged. Then Silver spoon carefully put her cup down and smiled. “Ms. Rarity,” she said. “I’m Silver Spoon. And I’d be super excited to show off a look tailor made by the Carousel boutique to my friends and family. I be my mom, Pearl Necklace, she said. “The famous Jewelry designer would even want to work with you on your next line. Her shops in Canterlot and Manehatten are all the rage, you know.” “P…Pearl, Necklace? She is your mother? The one who customized a line of Accessories for Hoity Toity’s fall line? That Pearl Necklace?” Silver Spoon nodded and her smile lit up like a light bulb. “Yes, I see her every other weekend. She and my father aren’t together anymore. She didn’t want to move to Ponyville and my dad, Filigree, didn’t like Manehatten. Are you sure you don’t want to help us do makeovers, Ms. Rarity? I bet my mom and dad would be super excited to see how pretty you make me. And my daddy would love to find a place I like to do business locally.” “Of..Of course girls. I’ll go get ready. Meet me in the back as soon as you’re done with your snacks.” Rarity bolted muttering things as she galloped out of the kitchen. “Ribbons. Oh and that dreadful hair. … Sparkle… no, red.” All the fillies stared at Silver Spoon in shock and awe. Applebloom casually reached out a hoof and slammed it in to the back of Scootaloo’s head. “So, we ain’t dreamin’. Silver Spoon just did something nice.” “What,” Silver spoon took another sip of the tea and looked away. “You wanted to do makeovers. I helped you get what you want. It isn’t hard if you know what somepony is like. Rarity want’s to be important. Shes’s not going to get that here in the boonies of Ponyville.” “Hey!” Sweetie Belle glared at the silver filly who had finished her tea. “My sister will be important. She’s super talented. And she loves Ponyville and so do I.” Silver spoon shrugged, crossing her forehooves on the table. “That’s good,” she said. “That doesn’t change the fact that she isn’t going to amount to anything here. The major fashion capitals of Equestria are, Manehatten, Canterlot, and, Of course fashion is all the rage in The Crystal Kingdom to the east. Notice how Ponyville, the middle of nowhere, isn’t mentioned in the list. Can’t talk about anything around here without you saying how mean it is.” Sweetie Belle and Applebloom both sent vicious look towards Twist. “You sure, you want to try to be friends with this one, Twist? She’s a right nasty varmit. She’s talking about Sweetie Belle’s big sister and insulting our hometown.” “Shilver Shpoon, Say you’re shorry. That was mean and you need to apologize.” Twist stood up and took, Silver PSoon’s braid between her teeth and dragged her from the table. “You say you’re shorry to Shweetie Belle and Applebloom. And to Shcootaloo too.” “Are you serious? It’s not my fault her sister lives here.” “Shay it and mean it, Shilver Shpoon!!” “Okay, fine,” Silver Spoon looked up at Applebloom. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo. She sighed and then she said, “I’m sorry.” “I’m shorry too, everypony,” Twist said. “She was my friend firsht. Give her a chance. She doesn’t know how to be a friend yet. We all have to help her. Not let’s go play with Ms. Rarity.” The other three fillies nodded and Applebloom turned a suspicious eyes towards Silver Spoon before she led the way out of the kitchen. “Ms, Rarity,” Scootaloo said galloping towards the workroom, after zooming past Applebloom. “will you do me a huge favor?” “Of course, whatever do you need?” Scootaloo, despite her normally hyper and brash personality, looked sheepish as Rarity moved around fabrics and outfits and accessories in a magical whirlwind. She didn’t look at Scootaloo as the glow from her horn intensified. “Can you invite, Rainbow Dash over? I’m a huge fan and… well, Uhm I really want a chance to talk to her.” “Really? Is that all? Oh why anyone would ever be so enamored with that loafing mare I’ll never understand. But of course. I’ll see if I can persuade her to pay us a call.” “YEEEEEEEESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!! THE ONE AND ONLY RAINDBOW DASH!!!!!!” “Okay, my little Ponies,” Rarity said. Who would like to go first? It will be ever so much fun. I loved playing dressup when I was a filly.” “She still does,” Sweetie Belle said rolling her eyes.” “Oh, Hush, Sweetie. I do not play dress up anymore.” Rarity cucked her tongue at the absurdity of the idea. “Now it is the far more sophisticated art of outfit and style testing.” “I don’t want to go first,” Scootaloo said. She shuddered at all the frilly lace and bright colors. “It was Sweetie Belle’s idea. Let her go first.” “No,” Sweetie Belle said. “It was Silver Spoon who managed to convince my sister to let us be makeover artists let her go first.” Silver Spoon shook her head, making her long silver braid sway. “How about we let, Twist go first? She got me a present so this’ll be me doing something nice for her. Right?” All the other fillies nodded. Why not? “Sure,” Applebloom said. “Twist is one of the sweetest fillies I reckon I know. She should go first.” Rarity lit her horn turning on a bright light in front of a mirror. “Well, Twist, dear would you like to go first?” The little yellow filly blushed profusely but she nodded and took a step forward towards the beautiful mare. “Oh don’t be so shy, darling. Step right up and we’ll see what we can do. Okay,” Rairity said. “Cutie Mark Crusaders makeover specialist what do you think your client needs to look her best?” Applebloom bounced, her big red bow flying. “A big bow I always feel prettiest when I have this bow mah big sister Applejack gave me.” “Oh, okay.” Rarity floated several bows over from the stack of things she had been levitating moments ago. There were frilly bows and ruffled bows of all different colors and sizes. “Now Cutie Mark Crusaders makeover artists, do you think we should do something with her mane first? Or should the bow be a brooch?” Silver spoon said, “We should straighten her hair first.” “Oh what a lovely idea, Silver Spoon. Would you like that, Twist? You must always clear the decisions with the client. I think you would look lovely with a new coiffure.” Twist looked in the mirror. Her hair was thick and curly and very red. It was like her grandmother’s hair. But it was also unruly. It broke combs sometimes. And it was always falling into her eyes. “Uhm, Okay, Just.. pleash don’t cut it Missh Rarity.” “Of course dear. The girls had a blast. They picked out colors and styles and patterns. Rarity hummed as the straightening iron heated on the vanity. “Oh, Twist you are going to look lovely. You’re little friends actually have quite an eye. And you are just an adorable little delight. Do keep an eye on my Sweetie Belle.” “Hey!!” The white filly pouted and snorted her indignation. “I do not need her to keep an eye on me.” The Cutie Mark Crusaders and Silver Spoon excitedly watched the transformation. It took a good forty minutes to straighten Twist’s mane and Scootaloo rapidly grew bored with the small talk about style and fashion. Silver Spoon kept up amiable conversation. When twists hair fell sleek and smooth to her shoulders the effect was dramatic. Rarity ran a brush through it and then inserted the large polka dot bow the fillies had chosen. It was red and white and actually looked quite nice with her mane and coat. The ends of her mane curled in tiny spirals refusing ot be completely flat but that didn’t matter. “Oh, Silver Spoon I may need to hire you as an assistant that was a wonderful idea. Now let’s see how the others will stack up. Applebloom chose the outfit. She chose a pleated skirt with a little denim jacket. The clothing made Twist feel self conscious … especially the way Ms. Rarity inspected her after she had struggled into the outfit. It was so weird having someone she liked so much looking at her like that. Then at the insistence of Scootaloo her glasses were ganged. The thick purple cateye glasses were replaced with a pair of slightly smaller black square frames. And finally Sweetie Belle’s contribution to the filly’s new look was makeup. Rarity had wisely advised the young crusader that given age nothing too flashy. So it was a simple shiny gloss and then a little blush “Wow,” Applebloom said bouncing. “You look amazing, Twist.” “Yeah, we did a great job,” Sweetie Belle said. The little white filly was super excited for the reveal. Scootaloo was napping on the floor. Pegasi had very little stamina for things that they were not implicitly interested in. “Are you ready? You look wonderful Darling. Oh, of course I don’t mean to imply that you didn’t look wonderful before. A new look can often really change a ponies outlook on life. Or just put a smile on their face.” With a swift burst of magic the cloth was pulled down from the large oval full length mirror. And Twists gasped. She didn’t look like herself. Silver Spoon stared. She was… pretty. Really pretty. You couldn’t tell when her hair was all tightly curled and roughly pinned back but it was really long and it fell down past her shoulder, swooped with the pretty bow. And the too long legs twist was often tripping over made her tall and lanky looking in clothes. Maybe she shouldn’t be ashamed to be her friend after all. Without the big bulky glasses you could see that her eyes were very nicely shaped and with the gloss her lips no longer looked dry from her habit of sucking them because of her retainer. “Okay, my little ponies,” Rarity said. “Who is next?” “Uhm, Ms. rarity? Can you call Rainbow Dash first? That took a while,” Scootaloo said yawning from her position on the floor. > Fortress > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Silver Spoon swung her long curly silver mane over her slender shoulder. A dark smokey grey and purple eye shadow was over her eyes she liked it. The deep swooping bang made her look older, sophisticated. The other fillies had decided against clothing for her but went with a pair of shiny black shoes. “Oh, You are such a pretty thing, Silver Spoon,” Rarity said. “Okay Crusaders. I think that is everyone. Don’t you look simply wonderful?” “Yes, ma’am” Applebloom said. Already the little yellow earthpony’s main was falling from it’s cute messy bun. Strands of her bright red mane were falling into her eyes. It made Rarity’s eye twitch slightly but she merely sighed. “But none of us got our cutie marks. We’re not makeover specialist.” “No, you aren’t. But you had fun with your friends. And that is important isn’t it? You musn’t hurry these things dear. Everypony gets her cutie mark when it’s her time. Now will you all be Cutie Mark Crusaders, clean up helpers?” “Yes, Ms. Rarity,” they all said in unison. Scootaloo bucked balls of paper into a trashcan with impressive accuracy. Her spiked purple Mohawk fluttered and her leather jacket flared out with her wings. “I can’t wait to meet, Rainbow Dash. I look super cool. I bet even she’ll think so.” “Oh, I’m so sorry, darling.” Rarity said. The white pegasus mare covered her face in shame and dramatically gasped. “I completely forgot to call her. You little ponies finish cleaning up and I’ll go get in contact with her right away.” Her hooves clattered against the floor as she galloped out of the workroom. “It’s getting late, “Sweetie Belle said, as she used her magic to push the mannequins back against the wall. Then the blue glow of her magic sputtered out. Silver Spoon put the caps back on all the make-up and put them all back in the drawers of the vanity. “Oh do you girls want to stay over. I bet my big sister will let you.” “I can’t,” Silver Spoon said. “I have to go home.” Sweetie Belle nodded and looked to the others. “What about you guys?” Silver Spoon looked over a twist, her makeover still intact unlike Applebloom’s. She was gathering up the ribbons and other accessories to put them away. Her hair was shiny and she looked so different. Silver Spoon looked away quickly and went back to putting all the makeup and hair products back in the giant vanity. All the other fillies decided to beg to spend the night. “Thank you so much, girls,” Rarity said. “Such good little fillies you are. You did a wonderful job cleaning everything up.” “Uhm, Ms Rarity?” “Sis?” Rarity turned a suspicious eye on her younger sister and Applebloom. She did not like the pleading look in their eyes. “Yeeeeessssss?” “You see, sis. The other fillies were wondering if they could stay over here tonight. We’re having so much fun. And school is almost over for the year. So please please please can my friends spend the night?” Twist, Applebloom, and even the normally brash Scootaloo turned intense big watery begging eyes on Rarity and she actually backpedaled at the intensity of their expressions. “Girls. I’m not… I mean…your parents...” The fours fillies drew closer quivering pouty lower lips extended. “Surely.” “PLEAAAAASSSSSSSEEEEEEE…” Silver Spoon smiled a little at the display. Then she caught herself and turned away. She couldn’t stay anyway … not that she wanted to. Of course not. This wasn’t where she belonged. “Oh, alright. Make sure it okay with your parents of course. And Scootaloo, Raindbow Dash said she would pay us a visit a bit later tonight.” “I’d better go,” Silver Spoon said. She waved a hoof as the Cutie Mark Crusaders celebrated their victory in getting the sleepover. “Oh, you’re not staying dear?” “no, Ms. Rarity. I can’t stay I need to get home. I might stay next time. Beside’s it is nearly dinner time.” “Of course. Would you like us to walk you home?” “No thanks it’s not far.” “Are you sure, I don’t think it’s safe.” Rarity stamped a hoof to silence the other fillies so she could hear Silver Spoon better. Their squealing was growing incessant and quite nerve racking. Silver spoon rolled her eyes. She couldn’t let her father know. He wouldn’t like her hanging out with them anyway. “Yes, I’m sure.” “Then you’d best hurry before it gets dark. I will not have a filly leaving this house alone at night.” “Yes Ma’am.” Rarity escorted Silver Spoon to the door and sent her on her way. The silver earthpony left at a quick trot. That had been…fun. Right?” her hooves made sharp clicking side on the cobblestones as she headed uptown. It had been nice, right? Well some of it. She liked her new hair. She liked it down but she almost never wore it that way. It blew behind her as she quickened her pace towards home. It was weird hanging with the losers. She had expected the m to be moping about how miserable their lives must be. Well that’s what her old friends Diamond Tiara and Cherrybomb had done. They had made jokes and laughed about the horrible lives of the losers. But they didn’t seem particularly miserable and they hadn’t wept uncontrollably. Silver Spoon shrugged and kept going, turning a corner towards and shooting down a side street that would lead her home. Maybe they were right. Maybe she didn’t know how to be a friend and that’s why the friends she had were so… well … she had been best friends with Diamond Tiara. What fun things had they ever done together? Well they had gone shopping Silver Spoon thought as she sped along under the sunset light. But, when they had gone shopping Diamond Tiara and Cherry Bomb had spent all the time snickering and criticizing every choice she had made and talking about all the ponies. And she had been so excited about the trip as well. Diamond’s parents had taken them to Manehatten to shop. It had been an overnight train trip. But they had spent most of the train ride being concerned about how they would look compared to the Manehattenites. “Daddy, I’m home.” Silver Spoon said as she flung open the door and entered the brightly lit foyer. “What have you done to your mane?” Her father, said looking at the way her long silver mane curled softly along her face. “I went with .. uhm… I went to the Carousel Boutique and Ms. Rarity gave me a makeover.” Her father frowned, his dark golden eyes narrowing. “She was hoping … to uhm… increase business. Yeah. She knows I’m really stylish and that you and mom are really well known so…” “I do not like it.” Filigree had a dark burgundy coat and a golden mane. “I told you I never wanted you to wear your mane down you look too much like your mother. I won’t have you looking like that brazen selfish broodmare. And wash of that eye shadow as well. I won’t have you painted up like a filthy street walker. You’re going to see her tomorrow night so be sure to pack all your things.” Silver Spoon knew that he wouldn’t take her to the train. The little grey filly who looked like her mother knew her father wouldn’t call to ask how her weekend with mommy was going. The filly nodded and headed upstairs to pack and braid her hair. ------------------------------------------------ The Cutie Mark Crusaders and twist were whispering comspiratorially under a blanket fort in Sweetie Belle’s room. “Okay, Twist it’s your turn.” The little filly flushed and she couldn’t meet her friends eyes. “I don’t wanna. I mean mu ansher ish weird. You’ll laugh or thing I’m weird.” “Come on! I answered.” Sweetie Belle said The white pegasus filly’s horn glowed illuminating the dark fort. “Yeah but you didn’t have anypony,” Applebloom said giggling. “Twist obviously has somepony. Tell us, Twist. We know you have a cruuuussssshhhhhh.” “ms. Rarity.” “What you say, Twist?” the four fillies leaned in close to hear the words as Twist repeated herself. “Ms. Rarity.” “WHAT!!!?????” All three crusaders stared in shock as Twist shrank back in shame. She covered her face with her hoof and peeked over her foreleg after nearly a minute of silence. “Ewww… you’re crush is on my big sister? But she’s so … and …. Eeeeewwwwww.” Scootaloo nodded in agreement. “Rarity isn’t even cool though. Now Rainbow Dash is the best. I totally love her.” Twist blinked again as two of her friend shuddered n disgust. :Wait? You mean you care more about it being Ms. Rairty than me having a crush on a filly? “Well, sure,” Applebloom said. “She’s Sweetie Belle’s big sister that’s weird. That’s like Sweetie liking Big Macintosh.” Twist took a deep breath. Her friends didn’t care. But then again most ponies didn’t. most of them never gave it a thought. “But Rarity is sho pretty. And her main ish susch a pretty color.” “But, she’s so prissy,” Scootaloo said shuddering. “She smells like flowers all the time and I bet she’s no fun. She wouldn’t play football with you or go skating.” “But’…but… she’d go to dinner with you and moviesh. And she’d pick you flowers,” Twist said. The little filly blushed at the thought of a bouquet. She knew what she was going to do. She’d get up early to get some flowers for Ms. Rarity. “Sho you really don’t think it’s shtrange that I have a crush on Ms. Rarity.” All the other fillies shrugged. “I don’t know. I mean. I don’t have a crush on anybody,” Applebloom said. She swung one of her back legs absently in a rhythm as she laid on her belly. “I don’t know what’s strange or not.” “I don’t care, Twist.” Sweetie belle replied from her spot on her big fluffy pillow. “I like Rainbow Dash so how can I think It’s weird?” Scootaloo hugged the autographed helmet to her chest and rocked back and forth. “She’s so coooooolllllll.” “I think that’s different Scoots. Or do you, like,” Applebloom waggled her eyebrows at the word. “Rainbow Dash. I think you might just be a really big fan.” The Orange pegasus shrugged, flapping her mildly stunted wings. “I don’t know. I just know she’s the coolest pegasus around. She’s the North Wind of Ponyville and one of the best fliers in Equestria. I’m gonna’ be just like her at Spitfire when I grow up.” Scootaloo stretched out her wings, the thick corded muscles in the appendages bunching. As she struck a pose. The night passed with many fun adventures and whispered secrets among friends. > Big Day > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hello all. I'm back. I'm so sorry about the long wait. Things are wild here. I got a new job and am taking a class so this story will update spradically until I re-adjust. But enjoy this chapter. <><><><><><><><><><><><><><>< Scootaloo doodled idly in the class. The pencil sketched in the tall ramp. “Are you scared, Twist?” Sweeetie Belle asked while Cheerilee worked out math problems on the board up front. “I hate going to the doctor and the dentist.” “Not really,” the little filly said. “I’ve been to the dentisht pwenty of times.” Twist took down notes from the problem on the board. “Do you guys want to do something this weekend? We could meet up at Sugar Cube Corner.” “Well Sure,” Applebloom said. “I reckon that sounds like fun. We can keep workin’ on gettin’ out cutie marks.” Twist nodded. “If we do it tomorrow I can go. Shorry but I have the dentisht appointment today.” All four of them looked over at Silver Spoon she had said very little today. “I can’t.” she said sharply. “I’m going to be with my mom this weekend. I’ll be in Manehatten.” The Cutie Mark Crusaders and twist shrugged and the little ponies returned to focusing on the lesson. Twist looked over to Silver Spoon. Something was wrong. She looked sad… well sadder than usual. She had been looking sad ever since the party. The pretty grey coated filly had her head balanced on a hoof as she stared out the window. During the lecture on The history of the Age of Discord Twist continued to slip quick glances to the side at Silver Spoon. Was she imagining things? When Cherille stamped a hoof Twist faced forward again to the smiling teacher. “So,” Cherilee said swishing her tail towards the board. “Do all of my little ponies understand how important it is for us to study this dark time in our history?” “Yes, Ms Cheerilee,” the class replied eagerly. “Then we will continue our discussion next class. Now before we leave can anyone tell me the next section of history we will be discussing?” A slender red pegasus colt raised his hoof. Silver Spoon glared at Cherry Bomb. “Of course. Everypony who’s anypony knows that after the age of Discord comes the coup of Order led by Princess Celestia and Princess Luna.” “Very Good, Cherrybomb. I am very impressed. Goodbye everypony class is dismissed.” Silver Spoon’s desk was already clear and she grabbed her saddlebag with a irritable snort. Then as she turned around Twist was there a concerned expression behind her too big ugly glasses. “What do YOU want?” “You look upshet. Are you okay?” “me? Of course. I’m absolutely perfect. Not even Princess Celestia si sunnier than me right now,” Silver Spoon spat. “What do you care? Don’t you have to go spit somewhere else?” Twist’s earse leaned back in her sudden hot rage. “I was worrying about you! I MADE SHURE TO ASHK YOU HOW YOU ARE!?” Twist took a deep breath and then took a step back. This wasn’t right. She didn’t need to get angry too. “Why are you so angry when I ashked you if you were okay? I mean I am twying to be your friend.” Silver Spoon blinked in shock. That was a good question. She didn’t even know why. She didn’t know why she had reacted that way. Shek new she had bene abgry about Cherrybomb the two faced jerk getting praised for an answer he had probably copied from Cupid or maybe even Diamond Tiara. Well no, not Diamond. She doubted the pink and purple filly ever did her own homework. And she knew she never took her own notes. “Would you like to eakl home with me?” “Why? Why would I wanth to walk home with you when you were just so mean? Plush I need to get home sho I can go to the dentisht.” Twist eyes were suspicious slits. As the rest of the class left the room. “Please. I’m sorry I was mean.” “Oh really? I’m not going to jusht leth you keep being mean to me and my friendsh. I’m not a doormat. And I’m not shtupid. I won’t let you trat me like Diamond Tiara treated you and your other friendsh.” Silver Spoon flinched at the accusation. Then she lowered her head. “I know. Please walk home with me. You’re going the same way anyway right? Across the marketplace?” ------------------- This was something none of her friends would understand. Well it wasn’t their fault they weren’t pegasi. They didn’t have wings. Scootaloo gave her signed helmet a tight hug before settling it closely on her head and tightening the strap with her teeth. She invinsioned the blazing rainbow trail of her idol above her, a multicolor trail of awesomeness. And she kicked off with her scooter. She flapped her wings heavily. It hurt but she pushed. The ramp was close. She drove her right back hoof into the ground faster and harder kicking her scooter up to a greater speed. She hit the ramp hard it bent frighteningly but it held and then with a quick spin she pulled off her twisted 360 on the scooter before hitting the ground and kicking up dust. She winced at the pain between her shoulder blades from how hard she had been flapping to pick up speed. She thought she was ready. No one was around. Good. She was ready. Scoots carefully balanced her scooter against a tree. Today she was going to get to that branch today. She took one of the straps to her helmet in her teeth … but then she left it on. Her hero had signed it and even drew her rainbow lightning bolt on it. It had to be good luck. She looked up into the bright green leaves and through them into the perfectly clear sky. It was great flying weather. She leapt and held her breath. HIGHER HIGHER HIGHER … COME ON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Her wings burned and she cracked na eye open she wasn’t anywhere near the branch. Her wings were a millisecond from giving up and she was barely two feet of the ground. The branch. She was already falling. She hit the ground with a heavy thud and tucked her useless wings to her side. “CELESTIA BANISH IT TO THE MOON!!! TO TARTAURUS WITH THESE CLOPPING WINGS!!” “Well I never thought I’d see such a sad frown in Ponyville,” a pink earth pony said. She was bouncing steadily behind the stricken Scootaloo. “Why are you so angry and sad, silly filly? You have to be to be saying such big bad words like that.” Scootaloo flushed and couldn’t meet the big giant blue eyes of Pinkie Pie. Well for more than the fact that she was still bouncing in place making Scootaloo have to crane her neck to look at her. “I can’t fly.” “Oh, that’s not a big deal. I can’t fly either.” Pinkie illustrated by jumping into the air and waving her hooves frantically. She seemed to hover there before crashing back to the ground. “but you know what I can do. I can put a smile on anypony’s face. I can make my friends laugh louder and happier than any pony in Equestria.” “But I’m a pegasus. I’m supposed to fly. I was born to fly. I barely get to see my parents because they both work up in the clouds most of the time. They can’t afford to be down here with me. I’m staying with my mother’s friend until winter.” “Oh,” Pinkie said the bright smile fading from her face. She looked different without her exuberant expression. She didn’t look like Pinkie Pie. She looked like a very different… Pinky Pie like pony. “I know all about not being able to do what you were meant to do. You see I grew up that way too. I knew I was meant to make everypony happy. I knew I was meant to party and to be Pinky Pie but I couldn’t. But you know what I did until I could?” “What!?” Scootaloo snapped sharply. She doubted the mare had anything that could really make her feel better Plus she was running out of time. She had to be heading home soon. “I did what I could do,” Pinky Pie said her luminescent smile returning and her big blue eyes sparkling. Her cotton candy mane bounced again as she resumed her hyperactive jumping. “I did what I was good at. I was good at listening. I was good and learning. I learned about all the different types of ponies and the parties they wanted to have. I learned about what I wanted.” “What are you good at? What would you want to be good at until you can do what you’re meant to do?” “Uhm, I’m good at doing tricks on my scooter? Uhm I’m really cool. I’m good at stuff.” “There you go then. Be good at those until you can do what you’re meant to do. Okie Dokie Lokie?” “I guess.” Pinky gave the filly a quick nuzzle before she disappeared in a pink and white blur back towards town. Scoots had to consider there was something to what Pinky had said. She was a hero. She had saved Equestria from Nightmare moon and been honored by the princess. She had to know a thing or two. She loved riding her scooter. But she couldn’t help feeling incomplete without being able to fly. She never understood why it was so hard for her. She headed home deep in thought thinking up new tricks she could practice along the way. ------------------------- Twist wiped tears away from Silver Spoon’s eyes with a hoof . She hadn’t thought of that. She had never considered the things Silver Spoon had told her… well she had but not as clearly as the filly had managed to tell her. “I think you could be a good friend. You just have to keep pwactishing.” Twist did not regret walking home with her new friend. She knew it had been hard for Silver Spoon to open up like that but she hoped it had helped. “Thank you for telling me about thish. I have to go we can talk more lather.” Twist had waited too long. Her mother was going to be furious. That made thigns make a lot more sense. Silver Spoon had put a lot of trust into Diamond Tiara. Diamond had been her only friend when she was knew and awkward and scared. Diamond had made her popular and no one bothered her because of her like they did in Manehatten. She didn’t like what Silver Spoon had told her…but it didn’t really surprise the filly. Twist raced towards her house her mind reeling with the thoughts of her new friend. Silver Spoon had been brainwashed to be a bad friend and she was trying. And she understood now that going back to Manehatten with her mother was scary. She hated it there… she didn’t like it home with her father but it was better. So it made perfect sense that she was irritable and snippy. She liked Silver Spoon she really did. She was pretty and apparently she was smart and she needed a friend more than anything. But twist had to admit it was hard. It hurt when a friend was mean like that. Could she be Silver Spoon’s friend? Her house was on the right and she was almost there now. Already her closest friend Applebloom didn’t like her. And the other Crusaders seemed to barely tolerate her. “TWIST!! Do you have any idea what time it is!!?” The filly flinched at the yell from her mother as she came skidding to a stop in front of her house. “Shorry Momma. I got shidetracked with … with a friend.” “Hurry up. I swear to Celestia I thought you’d be jumping at the chance to have that retainer removed today. Come on let’s hope Dr. Pearly White isn’t angry that we’ll be late.” The slightly heavy red mare took of at a quick pace and twist Hustled behind her. She was nearly buzzing with joy at the thought. She wouldn’t sound so silly anymore after today. Most fillies and colts were afraid of the dentist but not twist. Dr. Pearly White was very nice. He worked fast and had lots of fun book in his office. “Please excuse us,” Twists mother said stepping up to the reception window huffing slightly. “I’m so sorry we’re late. I hope we haven’t caused any trouble for you.” “Oh, of course not. How are you, Twist? It’s the big day isn’t it?” “Yesh, ma’am. I’m shooo shuper duper exshited.” “Well the doctor will get this final visit taken care of in just a moment. You shouldn’t have too long a wait. Despite the receptionists promise the wait felt like an eternity. Twist could barely hold still as she sat next to her mother on one of the long benches. And then just when she felt like the world would end before they called her name the door swung open and a handsome Unicorn Stallion in a white coat opened the door and called for her. “Welcome, back, Twists,” he said. “I am so proud of you for listening so well and taking good care of your teeth. Let’s go see about removing this retainer.” “Thank you, Doctor.” ------------------ Silver Spoon took a deep breath. She felt…better? Maybe? She didn’t know. She had told her. She was going to have to deal with that. She had told her how she really felt. How scared she was. How she had been a bad friend and she knew it. She had told Twist how she really did want to try to be friends. She would start over when she got back. She would really try. The train blared and the little filly lifted her head and let out the breath she was holding. This was the first step to a new life for her. “All aboard for Manehatten. All aboard.” > Tripping and Falling > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Welcome, dear,” Pearl Necklace said as the train pulled away with a blare of the loud horn. “Hi, Momma.” “Oh come along, and stop looking so sour. I can’t have you seen looking like that now, can I?” Silver Spoon rolled her eyes and put on a slight smile. Her smile was heavy so it didn’t curl up at the ends very much… not like it did when she was actually happy. When was the last time that had been? “That’s much better. You never know who will see you. And one must always make a good impression on the public.” “Yes, Ma’am.” Silver Spoon followed the tall champagne pink unicorn as she turned to leave the terminal with a quick flick of her snow white tail. “I know you wanted to do something fun today, Silver, sweetie, but it just isn’t convenient. I have an appointment to get to right away. If it goes well maybe I’ll take you shopping. Wouldn’t that be nice? I’m sure everything here is better than the rags you get from that backwards pit Ponyville.” Pearl Necklace’s hooves clicked as she quickened her pace to get them back on the bustling streets of the city. Silver Spoon snorted but followed quietly, keeping her subtle respectable smile in place. She didn’t want to go shopping. All her mother ever wanted to do with her was go shopping. Sure it was nice… every now and then. But every time? After a while even one of your favorite activities would get old. The little grey coated filly followed her mother silently. She knew better than to bother her with questions and conversation when she had an “Appointment.” This was going to be a very long weekend. When they stopped and Silver Spoon looked up they were at a large brick building. It looked nothing like the buildings and homes in Ponyville. “I’m sure you didn’t know but I’m setting up this new location for my jewelry. It’s all the rage all over Equestria. Soon I’ll have to open a location in the Crystal Kingdom.” “Really?” The brick building was certainly impressive it was two stories and it looked to be in a very busy part of town. So lots of ponies would probably be dropping in. “Yes... and I want you here with me,” Pearl Necklace said smiling. “I want you to come spend the summer with me here in Manehatten. You can see how hard you’re mother works and make some nice friends here and see what life will be like in the city. You were just a foal when you’re father and I separated. And,” Pearl Necklace added casting a glance over her shoulder at her daughter. “And we can actually have some real quality time. I…I know we don’t really have that during the visits and I know that hurts you, Silver Spoon.” The filly started in shock at what her mother was saying. That was certainly different. She flicked her ears making sure they were working right. Her mom was normally so busy and frantic she barely dealt with Silver Spoon during her visits, well outside of the customary spending spree. “You don’t have to answer right away but please let me know if you want to spend your break here with me in the city.” “Ok.” It was hesitant and quiet but Pearl Necklace noticed that it was not a flat outright no. That was a start. “Come on in dear. I’m here to meet a very special pony that’s going to be doing the modeling for me.” Inside the big brick building it was still mostly empty but the shelving had been put in and she could see the big under lit cases to display the gems. “Oh, Silver. It’s almost ready for opening. By summer when you hopefully come to stay with me for a while this place will be bustling and for the most part running itself. I’ll be meeting with staff soon to make hires for clerks and gem setters. That is if I can find anyone half as good as me.” Her mother’s voice droned just outside of Silver Spoon’s attention. The filly vaguely heard something about putting her bags down and slid the thick saddlebags off of her back. She hadn’t needed much. The pair didn’t have to wait long Before the door opened and in walked a beautiful white Unicorn. She snorted and flicked her pale pink mane to the side. “Welcome, Ms. Fleur de Lis. I’m so happy you decided to consider being the face of my new jewelry line. Silver Spoon looked up at her from behind herm others legs. “I’d like you to meet my daughter, Oh stop being silly and introduce yourself.” It was weird No one would ever expect it but Silver Spoon was actually quiet and awkward without her friends well her ex friends around. She didn’t do well with introductions. She had liked having everyone just know who she was. Fleur de Lis just raises an eyebrow when Silver Spoon didn’t respond. That earned the grey filly a light kick from her mother in chastisement. “Don’t be rude.” “Hello, I’m, Silver Spoon. It’s nice to meet you.” “I’m so sorry, Ms. Fleur de Lis. I don’t know how my daughter lost all the grace I tried to raise her with.” “It’s fine,” the tall elegant white unicorn said. “She doesn’t know me. Can’t blame the little thing for being nervous. Hello, Silver Spoon I’m Fleur de Lis and I hope we can be friends.” “Oh that would be lovely. You know, dear, this lovely young unicorn is not that much older than you actually? I bet you could become good friends. She’s a model and I bet she would look absolutely wonderful on the billboards and posters wearing my new line. Oh,” Pearl Necklace said. “I have something to show you are just going to love. It’s a pink crustal design based on your Cutie mark. I have taken some, uhm,’ the pink unicorn paused trying to think of a polite phrase. “Creative liberties as it were.” Silver Spoon rolled her eyes as the older ponies walked away towards one of the cases. Well at least towards a large blue binder on top of one of the cases. This was going to be long weekend. She hated ot admit it but she wondered what her new “friends” were doing. ------------------------ “Are you sure about this?” Applebloom asked. She looked at the makeshift course she had built skeptically. She had to admit it was good but... Good enough she wasn't sure. “Yeah I'm sure,” Scootaloo said. She grinned and her wings buzzed behind her like a nervous tick. Her hoof scuffed dirt and she kicked off. She took the ramp in a spin catching good air before she dropped back to the ground. She flipped the scooter into a kick spin before heading for the pipe. Just a little flourish she was sure it would be something Rainbow dash would be proud of. Dust flew as he picked up speed, to hop onto the pipe. She skidded across it in a scream of hot metal then she dropped off to the ground and was breathing hard. There was a shrill whistle from above and Scootaloo almost died when she saw the blue pegasus floating lazily on a comfortable looking cloud. “Color me impressed, Kid,” she said. Her ragged rainbow mane was messy as she looked over the edge of her napping cloud. “You’ve got the making of a great trick rider. You got the timing down and you really use your momentum.” “Scootaloo,” Apple bloom said. The orange filly paid no attention. “Scootaloo you’re floating.” Scoots then looked down to see all four of her hooves of the ground as she lazily hovered a few feet above the ground over her scooter. With a quick flap of her wings Rainbow dash was next to her and threw a hoof around her shoulders. “And it looks like you impressed somepony besides me take a look.” With that Dash streaked of in a flash of blue and rainbow color. Scootaloo was shuddering as she touched the ground. She was too scared to look herself but… she had to know. “Is it there? Sweetie Belle? IS.IT.THERE?” “Yeah. It is. It’s amazing. It looks awesome. It looks like the wheel of your scooter. Well kinda but it’s surrounded by a flaming wing. Well its fire but shaped like a wing. Or something like that.” “I reckon this calls for a celebration. FOR SCOOTALOO!!! THE FIRST CUTIE MARK CRUSADER TO EARN HER CUTIE MARK!!! HIP HIP HOORAY!!” Applebloom screamed bouncing up and down in joy for her friend. “We have to go show, Twist.” Sweetie Belle said, grabbing a mouthful of Applebloom’s tail to kepe her on the ground. Scootloo leapt into the air streaking up and up and up with wickedly fast beats of her little wings. She felt as light as air. Nothing would hold her down. She managed to make it to the top of that accursed tree before her energy gave out and she was falling. She yelled as wind ripped past her and her wings refused to catch it she snapped them open wide and managed to roughly glide hitting the ground hard but for the most part in one piece. “Ow. Okay still need work. Yeah. Landing hard not fun.” Scootaloo winced as she got back up. “Okay so you said something about Twist?” “Yeah. We need to show her and plan a celebration. I’ll ask my Big Sister Applejack for some apple pies. Congrats, Scootaloo.” Applebloom led the parade back towards town and to their friend’s house. When they arrived Twist was just as excited for Scoots. She gave her a huge hug and promised to make her something extra special. “What do you want, Scootaloo?” Twist’s smile was even bigger and brighter than it had ever been. She was so happy to be free of the big retainer. She was still getting used to not having it. It had been there for so long. “If it’s something to hard to make I’ll ask my momma to help me.” All three of the CMC were shocked at the way Twist’s voice had changed without the retainer. It wasn't just that she no longer had the grating slur. Her voice was higher or maybe it was just how excited she was. They couldn't tell. “I know I wawantsn’t cinnamon sticks like you made before. They’re sweet and kind of hot just like my new Cutie Mark,” Scootaloo said striking a dynamic pose with her wings flared. You know I need to send word to my folks.” “Why don’t you ask Twilight, I bet her and Spike could help send word to just about anypony,” Twist said. The other fillies nodded in agreement. And Twist followed them out the door to the library. And she had an idea. She had someone she wanted to send a message to. > Growing up > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- I hope you enjoy the story. Next chapter things change quite a bit. I'm sorry the story is going so slowly. ----------------------------- "Oh, of course I'd be happy to help you. Let me just see what I can do." Twilight Sparkle's two-toned tail swished slightly as she put her mind to the task. Several books floated off of the perfectly organized shelves to hover in front of her purple nose. "Alright let's see it should be pretty simple." "Really? You can send word for me?" "Of course I will, Scootaloo."Twilight said, the glow fading as the books re-shelved themselves. "It isn't everyday that a little filly gets her Cutie Mark. And it must be wonderful to have discovered your talent in something you love so much. I hope you other little ponies were paying attention" "What? What are you saying, Twi? You saying we're too stupid to get our Cutie Marks." "No, of course not, Applebloom." Twilight's expression softened as the glow from her horn dissipated completely. "Just letting you know that sometimes you're special talent is closer than you think like Scootaloo's was. Now come on let's write those letters." The fillies nodded and followed Twilight to a table behind some tall shelves. It was a nice quiet private little nook. Twist brushed her shoulder against Applebloom who was still pouting about Twilight's comment. "It's okay, Bloom. I promise you'll get your Cutie Mark too. Soon. So will Sweetie." Twist focused on her peice of parchment while her friends glared at each other over the table. She wasn't sure what to say. She liked Silver Spoon but she had to admit they had not been friends for very long yet. She setteled with a single word first. She would never get anywhere if she didn't at least start. Hi I hope you're enjoying your trip as much as you can. I have some big news. Scootaloo got her Cutie Mark and she is really excited. We're going to throw a party when you get back. I sound really different now. You won't be able to make fun of my voice anymore. She stopped writing when she heard Twilight come back around the corner with Spike. "Hi everypony," the young dragon said. "Hiya Spike!!" Applebloom said waving a hoof. "How come y'all haven't been to see me and my sister in forever?" The purple dragon looked away ashamed. "I'm sorry, Bloom. I'm busy here at the library. And with Twilight being a hero there is lots of work to do keeping up respondance between Ponyville and Canterlot. Not ot mention my regular duties as Twilight's assistant scribe. Now," he said. "I came in here cause I heard from a friend," Spike shamelessly stuck his thumb towards Twilight. "I heard that somepony got something special today." "AWW YEAH!" Scootaloo yelled. "You know it, Spike." She hopped up on the table shaking it and knocking over an ink bottle that promptly spilled onto Sweetie Belle's letter . "Check out this baby." She struck a pose, her tail hitting Sweetie Belle in the face. "WATCH IT!" The white unicorn glared at her orange friend. Are you sure your Cutie Mark isn't supposed to be a balloon? You're acting awefully inflated considering you haven't even had it two hours yet." “Inflated? What? It’s not my fault you aren’t special enough to get your own awesome Cutie Mark.” “I’m plenty special. If you don’t shut your mouth I’ll show you just how ‘Special’ I am.” Sweetie Belle’s harsh words did not go unnoticed by Twilight who grabbed both of the struggling fillies in her magic. “Okay. That. Is. Enough. I will not tolerate this behavior out of you little ponies.” Both little fillies huffed as their friends looked on confused about what to do. “ Didn't you girls form the Crusaders to help each other get your Cutie Marks?” Twilight was angry as she dropped the little ponies square on their bottoms to continue her lecture. “I won’t have you dissolving over petty jealousy and immaturity. Both of you little ponies should be growing up and helping eachother. Scootaloo. You got your mark now help your friends. Remind them what they love and are good at and don’t just flaunt your success. "Oh shut up, Sweetie," Scootaloo said as she saw the smug sneering look on Sweetie Belle's face. -------------------- Silver Spoon shrieked at an almost unnaturally shrill volume when the glowing scroll appeared in front of her. Her mother and Fleur de Lis both looked back at her with concerned expressions. But Silver Spoon just pointed at the scroll hovering in front of her face with a hoof. Her mother took it, the glow changing from purple to pink and she opened it. “Oh my. How in Equestria? It… it’s a letter. For you, sweetheart, Pearl Necklace said. Both of the older unicorns looked perplexed at the mysteriously appearing letter. But when it proved to be nothing more than a teleported piece of parchment Silver Spoon read it while her mother continued the conversation. By the end of the letter she was laughing so loudly both of the mares were once again looking back at her. This time she waved it off with a nod. ‘I can’t believe that crazy nopony Scootaloo got a cutie mark.’ Twist was raving about planning the party and Scootaloo even said she was invited. ‘As if I would go.’ Silver Spoon rolled her eyes and thought, ‘I bet nopony is even going to be there.’ She imagined it for a moment and grinned. ‘Nopony but Twist.’ That thought shocked her. But Yes Twist would probably be there. And that was enough. When had she started caring so much about the awkward little dweeb that talked funny? And why? She wasn't pretty or rich like Diamond Tiara. She wasn't witty like Cherrybomb. She wasn't even that smart was she? Silver Spoon thought hard about why she had really liked her old friends and why she liked Twist now. Well Twist was cute kind of. And she was sweet. She had been nice to her when her friends had ditched her. And even her blankflank crew were trying to be nice. Scootaloo had even said she could come to the party they were throwing. Silver Sighed as her mother chatted with the model. Maybe she really did have a lot to learn about friendship. Diamond Tiara had never asked about her when she had gone with her mom. Never cared when she came back. They only wanted friends for what they could get out of them. And she … she was acting the same way. She wanted to know why she was being friends with Twist instead of just letting herself be a friend. Twist had been right when they had talked. She had a lot to learn about being a friend and maybe just maybe now she was ready to start. While the three fillies in ponyville's friendship was dissolving from one of the CMC finally getting their cutie Marks a new one was forming in the city. "It really sounds like this, Diamond is a terrible Person," Fleur de Lis said. "You say you were together for a long time." Silver Spoon was too busy staring at the pretty older mare over the tall sundae in front of her that was melting. She was finding it hard to talk. It was weird looking up at that pretty face she had seen on billboards all over the city. "We're, uhm. We aren't friends anymore I guess." "Finally broke up with her, huh?" "What? Broke up?" "Yeah. You stopped being friends and talking to each other. That's a breakup. Even if it wasn't romantic." "But she's a filly. We just stopped being friends she ditched me after her cuteceañera." "What does that have to do with anything? I know mares that are with other mares. I know colts and stallions with other colts too. My best friend, his name is Orion, is with another stallion named Cold Front. And from the way you talk about it you sound pretty heart broken about not being friends with ... uhm... what's her face anymore. Sounds like a bad breakup to me. Maybe you just didn't realize you liked her that much. And that is why you hung around." Fleur de Lis licked her lips after finishing her sundae. "You are really young it's like that sometimes." The model looked whistful. "Listen to me sounding all wise," She grinned a bit at the thought. "Like I'm finished growing up. The big smile the Unicorn model gave her was bright and beaming. "Think about that if you make some better friends okay." With a graceful Sway Fleur left waving goodby with a hoof. "I'll keep in touch, Silver Spoon, you're cute and you're really refreshing compared to some of the ponies I know here. And remember what I told you." This was a whole new world of possibilities. Was what Fleur de Lis had been saying true? Could that be why she had hung around Diamond Tiara so long despite how mean and snobby and silly she was. Had she 'Liked' her? Silver Spoon had never thought about it. Diamond had liked plenty of the colts in their class and around town. She had even followed Quicksilver an older white coated black-maned colt around for quite a while until he had told her she was annoying him and his actual friends. But Silver had never felt like that about anypony or maybe she just had never realized she felt that way about Diamond Tiara. She certainly had a lot to figure out this weekend. First she had a letter to respond to. And it just so happens she knew exactly how to send it back thanks to what the end of the scroll had said. The spell worked sort of like a shared diary. If she wrote her response on it and signed her name it would be sent back to where it came from. So at least now her visit wouldn't be so boring. > Sugar > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- To say she was nervous, well that was an understatement. To say she was completely and utterly terrified that was a bit closer. Silver spoon had actually quite enjoyed her trip to Manehatten in the north. And she had had a lot of fun getting to know Fleur de Lis over the weekend. She was very nice and had even managed to get Twist and Twilight Sparkle to send her one of the magic scrolls as well. But Silver Spoon had made up her mind on the long train ride home to quiet country Ponyville. The young filly was determined to sort this out. And it would not be easy. She wasn’t surprised not to see her father there when she disembarked from the train and it rolled away in a cloud of sour smelling smoke. It was early Sunday evening and she knew her father Filigree was most likely tending his workshop. Tomorrow he would have to be fully restocked in the shop on the upstairs floor of one of the shops in the marketplace. He really did do very good work. His engraving and leaf work was some of the best in Equestria. It was how her parents had met. And it was also why her mother was so enraged that Filigree would disregard the high society and much larger business opportunities in Manehatten and Canterlot. Or anywhere that wasn’t Ponyville. Silver Spoon made her across the empty marketplace and past the big park where she had gotten the cinnamon stick that had changed everything. And instead of heading right to go home she hung a quick left and headed towards the two story brick home of Diamond Tiara and her parents. It was a nice place, with a garden in the back that was lovingly tended by the groundsmare, Earthvine. “Hello, Ms. Earthvine,” Silver Spoon said as she saw the old blue coated mare come around the side of the house carrying a big basket full of fresh flowers. “Oh, well,” she said in her low slightly slurred voice. “It has been a while Silver Spoon.” “Uhm, yes ma’am, it has.” “Come on in. I’ll tell little Diamond and Ms. Crowning Glory that you’re here.” Silver Spoon followed the older woman in and suppressed a shudder. She was already regretting this. But she was going to get it handled. She was going to get better and she needed closure first. She smiled a little as she followed the groundskeeper into the brightly lit foyer where she placed the basket of flowers. They were the same kind of lily that was on the mares flank. Except her cutie mark was a huge yellow one with a thorny green vine wrapping around it instead of red like the oned now on the small entryway table. “Diamond Tiara you’re friend is here. Come down and greet her,” Ms. Earthvine yelled poking her head up the stairs. “I’ll let Ms. Crowning Glory you’re here. Would you like anything, dear?” “No, Ms. Earthvine. I won’t be here long. Just stopping by. Thank you though.” It was merely a moment before Diamond Tiara came down the stairs and stared at Silver Spoon still loaded down with her saddle bags. “What are YOU doing here traitor?” “I came to talk to you, Diamond,” she said. “It’s very important.” Silver Spoon looked very nervously at the polished wood floors and took a deep breath. “I learned a lot while I was in Manehatten with my mom for the weekend. I made a new friend she’s nice.” “So you finally came to grovel for me to forgive you so you can get away from those blank flank losers?” Diamond Tiara made her way down the stairs with a sadistic smirk. “I’m listening,” she said standing right in front of Silver Spoon. Silveer spoon pitched forward and gave Diamond Tiara a quick shocking and awkward kiss. Well more like she smashes her lips into her former friend’s awkwardly. “I think I liked you… I mean… I think I might have had a crush on you and that’s why I ignored how mean and cruel and… and how unhappy you are with yourself. I can’t do it anymore. I ignored how you used me, cheated of off my work and took credit for my ideas. But I don’t feel that way about you any more. ” “What? Unhappy with myself? Okay so you’re stupid and a traitor huh?” Diamond Tiara said wiping her mouth with a hoof. “The horses of the heavens really added an extra few drops of idiot when they were whipping you up, didn’t they?. Silver Spoon just sighed and Diamond Tiara threw her head haughtily. “Me? Unhappy? I have everything I’ve ever wanted and now I’m short one useless traitorous fake friend. You should feel honored I let you even hang around. Cherry Bomb always hated you. And I mostly kept you are so I didn’t have to do my homework.” “I forgive you, Diamond Tiara but I… think I’m glad we aren’t friends anymore.” Silver Spoon left a fuming fuming filly in her wake as she turned around to head home. Well no she had one more stop to make. ------------ Twist looked up, her face covered in powdered sugar as there was a knock on the side door. “Mama, someone’s here,” she said. “Should I get it?” “Go, ahead dear,” Her mother yelled from somewhere towards the back of the small cabin home. “I’ll be right there.” Twist gleefully opened the door and saw Silver Spoon there with tears in her eyes. “Are you okay, Silver?” “Yeah, I just.” The Silver Spoon laughed wiping her eyes with a hoof. “You were right. I can’t make fun of the way you talk anymore. But… but what is that all over you? I can still make fun of the fact you look silly right?” Twist glared at Silver spoon. “You realize I can close the door right?” “Have you ever had a crush on another filly, Twist?” The yellow earth pony jerked in sudden shock at the question. But she slowly nodded. “Yeah. I … I talked to Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo about it a while ago.” “I think I had crush on Diamond Tiara and that’s why I stayed friends with her for so long even though she was so mean. Even to me most of the time. And why I never said anything and did the same things she did like be a bully. “I'm sorry,” silver Spoon said. “I don’t think I ever apologized for how mean we were to you and your friends. Oh and for making for of the sugar on your face. What are you doing?” "Come in,” Twist said. “Its ready anyway. I was going to give it to you tomorrow. I was making a welcome home gift for you. And a Cuteceañeara present for Scoots.” “I was only gone a weekend. But," she said smiling. It means a lot that you would do that." “Twist!! What in Celestia's name did you do to this kitchen!? I swear on the horses of the heaven if you don't clean up this mess right now!!.” Twist flinched at the scolding coming from behind her somewhere. Silver Spoon covered her muzzle to stifle a giggle. “Want some help? I mean you were making something for me… only… uhm friendly right.” "Yeah you can hang out with me. I made you a treat. It's a cake pop. It's a lollipop made out of cake with powdered sugar on it. I learned the Recipe from Pinkie Pie. I talk to her about making candy and sweets all the time.” ------------ Silver Spoon ran the brush through Twist's curly mane. “You know you're really not so bad looking. I think you're mane is the reason Diamond thought you looked so weird.” "Why? I mean it's just curly. It's not like my mane is made out of hydra heads. I don't think it's weird." “Yeah. Not many ponies have curly manes though, I guess. I mena really curly manes like yours. My mom said a lot of Arabian Ponies do though.” The red strands had a healthy shine as Silver Spoon brushes them out. It fell sleek and shiny to past her shoulders. It was a sweet intimate moment in the small bedroom filled with books and the bedspread covered with a cookie pattern. Twist turned around to look up at silver Spoon and the silver coated filly leaned down kissing Twist gently and tasting a dab of powdered sugar. "Thanks for being my friend, Twist," The yellow filly blinked, her face flushed from the surprise contact. > Chapter 10 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Twist was more surprised by the kiss than anything. It had been quick and she could tell Silver Spoon was afraid. she kind of was too.  I'm sorry, I... Uhm." "Silver Spoon,” Twist said looking down to hide her flush. “Do you like me?” The silver coated filly could only look over her glasses and shrug as she put down the brush. “I... I don't know. That's weird isn't it?” she said.  "Not really? It's not weird to not know. I don't know if I like you either. I don't really know you.” The gray coated fully looked shocked.  “You don't? We've been classmates for a long time. How come you don't know me?"   Twist raised an eyebrow. "I know you were a bully and that you don't like my friends. I know that Diamond used to copy your homework. I know you don't like dancing. I know a lot about you but that doesn't mean I know you," Twist said. “And I bet you don't know me either. You just know about me... stuff you heard from every pony but me. And most of it isn't true. Every pony thought I was dumb or sick because of the way I talked. It wasn't true. I bet a lot of ponies were saying I was soft in the head because of the way I talked. I thought you were mean and hopeless and I was wrong you can be better you can think a lot of things about some pony you don't know.” Silver Spoon thought about that. She didn't know if Twist was right but she had to admit so far the awkward filly had a better track record of being right than she did so... She had to at least give her the benefit of the doubt.  “Well, Twist, I don't know if I like you ... But I do want to get to know you.”  Twist smiled and nodded.  “I want to get to know you too.” ----------------------------- Sugarcube,” Applejack jack said tilting back her big iconic hat. “What're ya' doing here,” Apple Jack asked her younger sister who was sitting on the porch on a perfectly sunny late afternoon. “Shouldn't ya' be out getin' into trouble with yer friends?” “What friends, Sis? Ever since Scoots got her Cutie Mark she's been nothing but a fatheaded jerk. I'mma not havin' anything to do with her. And Sweetie Belle ain't much better the way I see it.” “Oh don't be that way, Applebloom. I know growin' up ain't no easy thang. But you can't go getting' rid of friends all willy nilly for stupid things. And I'll tell you a secret. If you think Scoots is bad you don't know Rainbow very well.” “But, Sis,” Applebloom said rolling her yes. “But nothin', Sugarcube sometimes we have to be the bigger little pony. Now go see if you can make things right with yer friends. And if not then it wasn't our. You did what was right ya' hear.” “Yes, Apple Jack.” the little yellow filly flopped off the porch bench and scampered off towards Sweet Apple Acre's main gate. It wasn't hard to find her friends. She heard the laughter and then she heard the singing. Pinkie Pie was bouncing outside the doors to the Bakery as Scootaloo talked to her. “See I told ya'... I told ya'. I knew you'd get it if you just did what you were best at.” Scootaloo nodded as Pinkie grabbed her in a crushing bouncing hug. “I'm so proud of you. And I'm so happy you want me to set up your party. Any ideas?” Pinkie went very still seeming to physically restrain herself. “DO you have a theme? A venue?” “Yeah I want the theme to be sports. You know skateboarding and scooters and skates. And I was thinking it could be in the park.” “Hmm Good idea. I bet I could even get rainbow to do an airshow for it.” Pinkie gave the little orange filly a wink as Scoots' jaw dropped. “Really? I don't know how much my parents can afford for this but if.. If.” “Don't worry about it. Since we don't have to rent a venue it'll be a lot cheaper than most. And a lot bigger. Everypony can come to the party in the park.” The little pegasus was hovering in her excitement her signed helmet on her head. Then she carefully hit the ground her hooves reconnecting with her scooter. “Hey, Scoots, planning the big party?” “Yeah. You still coming are are you still going to be a jerk about my Cutie Mark?” Scootaloo flipped her short purple mane as she looked at her friend. “Look, Scoot's I'm sorry. I was jealous and you being all excited and flashy wasn't helpin' none. But you're ma' friend and I should a been happy for you. No whining that I didn't get mine.” Scootaloo nodded but then she grinned and said, “And I shouldn’t have been gloating. Twilight was right I should have been helping. I bet I know what you're Cutie Mark is supposed to be. I bet I know what Sweetie's is supposed to be too. Let's go find her. ” Unfortunately for the fillies Sweetie Belle was much less easily found that Scootaloo had been. At least until they headed back to the woods bordering Sweet Apple Acres to the clubhouse. “There you are Sweetie, are you coming to my party?” The little unicorn looked down at her friends on the ground. Applebloom was already busy climbing the ladder up to the clubhouse. Scootaloo just took a deep breath and set her wings to buzzing. And barely just barely they managed to carry her to the lading where she plopped almost gracefully. “You're getting better, Scoot's” Sweetie Belle said as she opened the door for the panting Pegasus. “Yeah. I think it's because I stopped trying so hard. I'll be able to fly one day. But right now I know what makes me special. I'm Scootaloo the epic trick rider. I totally want to try skateboarding next. Think I'll get a skateboard as a present for my Cuteceañera?” Sweetie shrugged she had no clue though at least now she had an idea of a good present to get if she could find one this week. “Sweetie,” Scootaloo said unable to meet her friends eyes. “I have a favor I need you to do for me,but "I … I should apologize. I was really excited about getting my Cutie Mark but that is no excise to be mean and show off when you guys helped me. It was you and Applebloom who told me I should practice my tricks. I'm sorry." Sweetie looked up, her mouth wide open as Applebloom closed the door. "You're gonna' catch flies in ya' keep yer mouth open like that. Sweetie Belle. I swear." "Did you just apologize?" Scoots rolled her eyes and let out a deep sight that made her mane flutter. "Somepony had to be the bigger pony." The little Unicorn grinned and wrapped her hooves around her friend in a hug. "I"m sorry, too, Scoots. Now what did you want to ask me?" "Can you sing at my Cuteceanera? You have a really nice voice and you're one of my best friends. My parents are coming and I want them to hear you sing." Once again Sweetie Belle was gaping with her mouth open. Scoots waved a hoof in front of her friends face. And after about a minute the white unicorn nodded, still unable to speak. “I'd be honored Scootaloo.” “Come one let's go to the Bakery and get a snack we can decide what song you should sing. I want something super cool. The party is skating themed. I'm so excited.” The reunited trio of fillies took the streets with excitement. The bakery smelled of fresh cookies and already Applebloom could feel her mouth watering as Mrs. Cake set out a giant tray of cherry topped cupcakes. Pinkie Pie was busily placing an order down on a table. Then the bouncing pink Pony suddenly made a dramatic leap gasping in shock before streaking through the air out of the bakery. Mrs Cake took a deep steadying breath and headed back into the kitchen. What was more interesting to the Crusaders was the two fillies they could see now that their server had defied the laws of physics. They saw Silver Spoon and Twist sitting close, so close their noses were almost touching laughing over big cups of something with a lot of frosting. The way Twist was grinning over the top of her glasses and blushing made Sweetie Belle raise a knowing eyebrow. And all three noticed the way that her mane was meticulously brushed... something that was more than unusual. “What is it with you and cinnamon, Twist,” Silver Spoon said. You dumped like hoof-fulls into your drink.” “It's my favorite. And the first thing I learned to make were cinnamon sticks.” Silver Spoon rolled her eyes licking the sweet chocolate dusted whipped cream topping her cup. The two of them only noticed there friend when Scootaloo stole one of the pile of donuts on the table and Silver Spoon looked up an angry look on her face. Then she recognized Scoot. “Hi,” Everypony Twist said. “What are you doing here.” “We came to talk about Scootaloo's party, Applebloom said grinning. “She asked Sweetie to. Sweetie Bells sent her elbow into Scoot's side as she reached for another doughnut, the one she had already swiped still firmly in her mouth. We can move to a bigger table," Twist said. "What do you think Silver Spoon?"  "That's fine," Silver Spoon said, smiling as Sweetie Belle grabbed the plate of donuts with her pale blue magic giggling. She whispered something to Applebloom and the redheaded earth pony shook her head.  "So what were you two doing here?"  "Oh," We were just relaxing and getting a snack, Sweetie Belle. Getting to know each other."  Ever since getting the retainer out he ha been a lot less soft spoken but her embarrassment made her stutter slightly. Applebloom and sweetie belle stifled giggles as they made their way to another the big table close to the middle of the room.   "Okay so what should I sing?"  > End of an Era > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- So sorry the update is late. A little something got in the way on update day and it slipped my mind. But don't worry. Next one should be write on time and you'll be surprised by the changes in out favorite group of Pony friends. I'd like to thank all the people who liked and commented on this story. It means a lot considering this is my first work on this site. ------------------------- The park was alive with laughter. Pinkie smiled at her work. It was a lot more than Scoots and her family could afford but she didn't mind. This was for a friend. Twilight had readily agreed to help and had no problem setting things up with her magic. The purple unicorn had spent the better part of last night transforming the park . And Rainbow Dash had taken no convincing at all.  “Psah, Pinkie you know I'll do it for my biggest fam.” She had said. There was a huge banner hanging from the trees with a picture of the guest of honor and congratulations. The Ponyville central park had been completely transformed into a skatepark with ramps a drop bowl and numerous grind rails.  The cake was three tiers and had a miniature of Scotaloo's Cutie Mark as the centerpiece. Nopony needed to know that she wasn't charging for the catering. The Cakes had been happy to do this one Pro Bono for such a sweet filly. Even if she did have a tendency to ride her scooter in their store. It wasn't long until the event started to swing. Ponies being drawn to the sound of the music and the smell of food in the park. And then right when everyone was getting settled and the party was ready to begin in earnest the guest of honor arrived with her best friends who had been busy keeping her busy until it was time for her grand entrance. The orange Pegasus' mouth hung open in shock as all the party guests cheered. “Oki Dokie Dashie!” Pinkie Pie said into the blue pegasus' ear. With a flick of her multi-colored tail Rainbow Dash leapt into the air. Then in a blazing arc of color Rainbow split the sky with a dazing explosion of her rainboom above the banners. It had the sound of a thunderclap and applause rang out. Scootaloo nearly fainted when her idol touched down right in front of her tossing her mane. “Congrats, Pipsqueak.” Rainbow gave her biggest fan a hug as the colors faded from the sky and the music piped up. “Oh sweet Celestia... Did you see that?" Scootaloo squealed holding her present from Rainbow Dash. It was a signed plushie of the pegasus in a Wonderbolts uniform. The same one Dash had been denying having for years. “She did a sonic rainboom right over the banners and then she landed in a knife edge dive right in front of us. GAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH” "Course we saw it." Applebloom said rollign her eyes. "We also heard it the first three times you told us about it, Scoots.” “And how did a stupid little runt like you get that? An aerial stunt for a chump like you? How insulting? A sky performance for a pegasus who can't even fly.” Diamond Tiara was seething in an unnatural rage as she spat her rude insults at Scootaloo. “You know what, Diamond Tiara, shut up!! I am sick of this.” The Orange filly shoved her pink enemy down knocking the annoying little crown she always wore askew on her head. “You are not ruining this or me. I am happy and you are not messing up my party with your nasty comments. You are going to leave before I buck you in the teeth and stamp a thundercloud on your fat flank.” However the argument, and the party itself were stopped by sudden darkness over the park causing everypony to look up. Where written in the clouds was Scootaloo's name. A pair of Pegasi came arching over the tailored clouds and then they dove to the ground near the grind rails where Scootaloo was about to slam her hoof into Diamond Tiara's snobby nose. “MAMA! DADDY!!” Diamond Tiara breathed a sigh or relief and stuck her pretty little nose in the air and rolled her eyes. She could have had that. Her Daddy could have paid a couple of local pegasi to give her cloud writing. Her clash with the bully forgotten as Scootaloo was presented with a skateboard. Scoots crushed her parents in a hug and galloped towards the sidewalk where a couple of other little Ponies were skating. Scootaloo's parent's were glad to be a cause of joy for their little filly. Honestly their jobs kept them so busy. It wasn't easy being one of the four cardinal winds for any town. Her mother was the South Wind for Ponyville, a very hectic position that forced her to keep winging it between Ponyville and Canterlot before hitting her route. Her father was East Wind for nearby Cloudsdale and though he didn't have to travel as much he was gone two weeks out a month to the north to check on Wild Clouds. Scoots was so enamored by her skateboard she completely ignored the pile of other gifts by the cake. That was until she face planted with her new skateboard. That was the moment her mother decided to pull her away and take her to open gifts. It was also right before Pinkie Pie pulled a nervous and sweating Sweetie Belle to the side. “You ready? I need you to make this super, extra, hyper, fantabulously special. It's a present for your bestest friend isn't it? ” Sweetie Belle swallowed the lump in her throat and nodded as Pinkie pointed her towards the makesift stage. The little unicorn was nervous as all eyes turned towards her. But this was for her friend. Scoots was stamping the ground in support as where majority of the other party goers. She wanted to make them all happy. She wanted her voice to carry and lift the spirits and she wanted to make this the best day of her friend's life. The music changed and she took the little microphone in her pale magical aura. “I got a secret..... But everypony knows it... I tried but I just can't seem to hide it Been a long week I can't wait to unwind Sooooooo SHUT UP AND GRIND!!! Grind... grind … grind I hit the rails Wind whips my tails... Tricks blow your mind Shut up and grind grind grind Sweetie Belle instinctively moved with the music her voice perfect and clear rocking the lyrics. Her friends cheered and from the makeshift stage she saw Silver Spoon and Twist dancing to the music being pumped in by speakers. She felt right, happy, energized as her song finished and she struck a pose breathing hard. The crowd rang out in squeals of Congratulations and I'm so happy for you's. Some ponies laughed at the irony of Sweetie earning her Cutie Mark at a Cuteceañera. Her Cutie Mark was a golden bell with heart shaped musical note for the ringer. “I hope you don't mind sharing you're party,” Scootaloo,” Twist said as she joined the giant group hug of the Cutie Mark Crusaders. Carefully the orange filly pushed off keeping her balance on the skateboard. Her wings buzzed pushign her faster down the sidewalk towards a grind rail while her mother and father cheered from a nearby table with some old friends. “I told you look at them,” Sweetie Belle said grinning as she cocked her head towards the speakers where several ponies, Pinkie Pie included, were still dancing. Silver Spoon was twirling Twist around on her awkwardly long and gangling back legs. “I reckon I jus' can't see it.” “Really? Are you blind? She'd be just her type. Like my big sister. Pretty, stylish all dainty.” “Well, I don't see Twist dancing with you, Sweetie Belle, you're just as pretty and a whole heap nicer than Silver Spoon. I mean look'it what happened with Diamond Tiara.” “It doesn't work like that. You'd know if you'd ever liked anypony.” “Well do you like anypony, Ms. Bell on yer butt?” “No,” Sweetie Belle admitted. “But I've liked somepony before and that isn't how it works, Applebloom. I think Silver Spoon is Twist's very special somepony.” “You know you could totally just ask. Just go and ask, Twist uhm, I reckon you an' Silver Spoon are getting close and I was wondering if she was your very special somepony.” “WHAT? You can't just ask it's uhm nosy and impolite.” Applebloom just gave her friend a crossways look before rolling her eyes and heading to the dessert table. “I swear as stupid as that just sounded I'm surprised you got your Cutie Mark first.” The park was quiet and Twist was wobbling down the sidewalk in her skates while Sweetie Belle and Silver Spoon giggled. "It's not funny,” Twist said huffily. “I'm trying. I really am." She was slowly inching down the concrete barely managing not to fall in the skates. The hammer fell with a deft strike as Applebloom added another timber to the ramp. It had been easy to get the scrap wood as the grown ups had been breaking down the party.  "Really? This is what you want me to do Scootaloo? I mean I don't mind it but why."  "It's still my Cuteneañera, don't you want to make me happy? Don't you want to be proud of something you built that helps a lot of ponies?” "Well course I do. That's why I built the treehouse. I wanted to help my friends and make mah big sister proud of me. Her an' Big Mac used to play there when they were little and it made me sad to see it all beat up an' broken. I was happy when AJ told me it had never looked better. It was special. It made me feel special for doin' it." Applebloom smiled as she nailed in another plank of the sturdy smooth wood. "This makes me feel special too. I mean it makes me feel good to be doin' something special for you on your special day." The little yellow filly didn't even notice when it happened. She just gave her friend a sideways glance when she started laughing hysterically,  "It's your special day too," scoots said between her deep belly shaking laughs. "guys come look. Check out Applebloom."  "What? What is it?" The littlest apple pony twirled futilely trying I look at her own flank. "I got it?"  "Yeah," scoots replied as they were joined by Twist who was being pulled along by sweetie belle and Silver Spoon in her skates. “Check out who else tried to steal my spotlight."  . "I'm so happy for you Applebloom. You got a great Cutie Mark Applebloom," Twist said smiling. The mark Applebloom was still trying to see on her flank was a hammer and nail with a shiny pink apple on the handle. And no one questioned it when this time Silver Spoon was a part of the massive hug as the Cutie Mark Crusade came to an end. > Relationships > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- A lot had Changed in the three summers since the Cutie Mark Crusaders had earned their Cutie Marks. The town had grown expanding northward.. A sleek modern weather tower had been built in the town square. Pinkie Pie and the cakes had expanded the Sugar Cube Corner from the bakery to a full on Cafe and dessert buffet. And one of the greatest changes in Ponyville was to the young mares themselves. "Scoots," Sweetie Belle yelled towards the sky. “You're back!” "Hey, Sweetie!" Scootaloo turned in a steep arch and took a graceful dive to flutter down to her friend. Scoots was still small for and skinny for her age but most Pegasi were on the lean side, it was far more obvious next to the more filled frame of her singing friend. Sweetie Belle was also tending towards the tall and elegant side unlike her Older Sister who was a more classic petite beauty. "So how was the trip with your folks?"  "Exhausting. I know why they left me behind for so long now. We were really cutting clouds. But I got to see so many places. "Daddy even let me play a couple of the games in Las Pegasus."  "And where did you get you're ear done?" The young orange pegasus grinned. The sleek titanium industrial bar flicked along with her right ear. "Oh, I got it in...Was it in Hoofington? Or was it in Canterlot? I think it was Hoofington. While dad was doing his thing and  checking cloud drift or whatever me and mom went around town and I got my ear done. The whole thing is kind of a blur we never stayed more tan a day or two anyplace.” "I think it looks pretty cool. I was thinking about getting my ears pierced. You know but needles.” “You're such a wimp Sweetie Belle. My industrial didn't hurt that bad.” "Yeah,” Sweetie Belle said snorting in a fashion that would have made her older sister's eye twitch. “You also said crashing your scooter into a tree didn't hurt that bad either. Come on I bet Applebloom will be happy to have you home too.” "Yeah I was actually planning to check in with you guys today. I know I don't want to be a Cardinal Wind though. Too much travel not enough time to ride. “Where do you think Applebloom is?" Scoots shrugged and followed her friend across the town square heading towards the market place. “I've been gone for more than a month, Sweetie. I'll need another day or two to adjust and you know talk to everypony.” “Oh, right.” The grin on the unicorn mare's face was just shy of cheeky as she turned a corner and headed for the library. “Meh, as good a place as any to start. Bloom's a likely to be here getting books about carpentry or just hanging around with Twilight.” They, didn't find Bloom but they did find Twist at the main desk of the library with a basket. The years had changed the red maned pony. She had grown into her too long awkward legs making her tall and graceful. She was taller than Sweetie Belle and Twilight Sparkle. And a few years as a friend to Silver Spoon had done wonders for teaching the filly how to take care of her mane. Now it was long silky and wavy falling over her shoulders. And years of being close to Sweetie Belle, and by extension her sister Rarity had led to her growing up into quite a stylish young mare. “TWIST!! You here making some deliveries for Ms. Pinkie?” The yellow pony looked over her shoulder to smile big ad bright at her friends. “SCOOTS!? Yeah. I didn't know you were back. Ms. Pinkie sent me out to do the deliveries this morning. Want to come along?” Both of her friends declined saying they were looking for Applebloom. So Twist was bounding out the door, her heavy saddlebags swinging as she bolted towards BonBon and Lyra's house. They had made their usual big order of sesame butter bread. “Oh, hello, dear,” BonBon said as she opened the door to the smell the sweet fresh bread wafting from Twist’s bag. “Here dropping off our order?” “Yes ma'am. How are you and Ms. Heartstrings?” “Oh, dear, we're fine.” A mischievous glint came over the older mare's eyes as she flicked her two-tone mane. “How are you and that cute little marefriend you bring around to the candy shop doing?” Twist flushed and stuttered in shock. “Uhm, we're oh, uhm. We're doing fine. I... didn't think most ponies knew.” BonBon giggled and shook her head. “Oh, I'm sure almost nopony does. Only those of use who aren't blind. You be good okay, sweetie and don't turn into a grouchy old couple like me and Lyra.” The young mare squealed in embarrassment as she left. It was still unusual to have people talking about her and Silver Spoon. The silver pony had grown a lot, well everyone had she considered. Nopony was the same as when they had met years ago. She had a marefriend. The first of her friends to be officially dating. In fact she would probably be meeting up with the pretty pony somewhere along her route. Silver spoon always met up with her along her route, twist swore it was to steal the homemade treats she snuck into the delivery bags. Silver would adamantly deny it but Twist was not convinced.  Silver had grown a lot over the past little while since she had fallen out with Diamond Tiara. She ha made better friends and she had met Twist arguably one of the sweetest ponies In Ponyville.  She dropped off a case of blueberry muffins to Ms. Roseluck and ave her a cinnamon twist. And when she crossed the street to head towards her last delivery Silver Spoon gave her a poke. "Hey," Twist said. "Come to steal candy?" Silver Spoon just snorted even though she was already rummaging in one of Twist's saddle bags for the treat of the day. "I swear you only like me for the sweets." Silver spoon chuckled a glittery red cinnamon candy in her mouth. She liked them they reminded her of Twist sweet, sort of spicy, and surprising. "Don't forget the discount at the bakery. Wouldn't be the same without it."  Silver spoon nuzzled her marefriend. "So what do you want to do today,Sweetheart?"  The nickname could still make Twist blush. It was based on her cutie mark of the candy heart.  "Well I still have a few stops to make. How about we go for a swim after that?"  “Oh, fun I bet every pony will be at the pond today.” "Yeah perfect weather. Dash and the team are doing a great job," Twist said as the gray equine licked crumbs from her lips.  "whose next on the list?"  "Uhm I think I still have Cheerilee and a delivery at the hospital.” “Oh giving sweets to the foals?” Twist nodded following Twist towards the Ponyville clinic. Silver Spoon had a big soft spot for fillies and colts. ------------------------------- Scootaloo dive bombed into the cool water from a steep climb. The splash blinded Silver Spoon and Applebloom. “HEY! Now you just watch where you be dropping out a' the air. Featherhead.” “Sorry, Applebloom,” Scoots said as she bobbed up from under the cool refreshing clear water. Her soaked mane fell in her face. She hastily tried to brush it away but it stubbornly flopped so she paddled towards the bank. Suddenly Twist was pulled under the water by her tail, her eyes widening in terror when she saw Silver Spoon grinning wide under the water. The gray mare kissed Twist under the water before the need for oxygen sent them both surface again. All of their friends were laughing at them because of the embarrassed crooked grin on both of their faces. “I swear and you said they weren't together,” Sweetie Belle said from where she was sunning on a rock near the bank. “They are practically attached at the flank.” “What I was young and stupid then.” “Oh okay,” Scoots said. “ So what are you now?” She flared her wings throwing water soaking her friend. Sweetie Belle's eye twitched between the sodden strands of her ruined mane. “I. WILL.END. YOU!!” Sweetie Belle took a running start, tackling the floating pony sending her deep under the water. “You... think they might be into each other too,” Silver Spoon asked looking at the other young mares as they wisely got out of the way of the massive water fight between Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle. Applebloom though about it but then shrugged. “Not placing a bet on this one,” she said shaking the water from her coat much like Winonah would. “I already lost enough bits when I bet against y'all siddling up.” Applebloom's mane was the longest as she shook it. She was not looking forward to how long it would take her to dry even with the help of the bright sunny day. “I don't think so,” Twist said watching them. Well watching Scootaloo hover over Sweetie Belle, her wings dripping. The unicorn fired colorful stunning blast at her friend who easily, if clumsily because of her waterlogged wings, dodged them. “But if it happened I don't think I'd be surprised.” “The gossip going around,” Applebloom said. “Is that Sweetie is really into that older stallion that she shares her studio with you know. What's his name? Can never remember a name when I get in mind to tell somepony. He's a musician. Moved here not too long ago from Canterlot. Real fancy shmancy accent an' all the fixin's.” “Oh,” Silver Spoon said. “I know him. He came to dad's shop to get some really really expensive silver leaf edged business cards made. His name is Brasstone, he plays the sax.” “Yeah. Him. I've seen him an' her about together all cuddled and hushed.” The farm pony put her mane in a rough plait with dexterous work toughened hooves. It was at that moment that a scroll enveloped in prismatic magic-fire appeared in front of Silver Spoon. “It's from Fleur de Lis. She's coming to Ponyville.” The correspondence between Silver Spoon and the popular young model had been ongoing and Silver considered her one of her closest friends despite the distance. And things were sure to change just like the fillies had when another new friend was added to the mix. > Challenges > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Fleur de Lis pushed her jewel toned shades up onto her forehead under her horn with a flash of pink magic and breathed in the crisp Ponyville air. It was warm and sunny and the town, while not as bustling as the larger cities she normally visited, was active. “Fleur!! Fleur de Lis!!” Silver spoon was waving her hooves frantically near a group of Ponies who must have also been waiting for friends to disembark. “Silver Spoon,” Fleur said ignoring the curious stares of some of the other ponies at the station as she pushed her way through the other passengers. “Oh sweetheart you’ve grown.” Silver Spoon preened slightly, flicking her shiny mane. “Well you haven’t seen me in almost a year. I was so happy you were around when I spent the summer with my mom. You made it a lot more fun.” The white unicorn mare smiled as she looked over Silver Spoon's shoulder at Twist. “And who is the adorable ginger hiding behind you?” “Oh, of course.” Silver Spoon flushed slightly. She was normally not so rude at least not anymore. “This is Twist my best friend and very special somepony.” “Hello, Twist,” Fleur said with her sophisticated Canterlot accent. “It's very nice to meet you. Silver you dirty little secret keeper, why didn’t you tell me you were with such a looker?” “Well,” Silver spoon said stepping away from Twist so the young mare couldn’t hide behind her. “I don't like to brag.” The model scoffed, snorting in a most un-lady like way. “Is that so? How very sweet and noble of you. Now can the pretty little thing talk?” “Of course,” Twist said. “I’m happy to meet you too.” She was met with a dazzling smile as Silver Spoon turned to lead her closest friends to the center of town. “Don’t let Twist fool you into thinking she’s shy. She’s a bit quiet till she warms up to you but when she gets to know you I promise you can’t get her to shut up.” “HEY!! I’m not that much of a chatterbox.” "I swear you girls make me feel so old.” “Old? You’re barely older than us, Fleur,” Silver Spoon said, huffing indignantly. “I mean me and Twist aren't exactly tiny little fillies you know.” “I know but you girls look so fresh and I’m already fading a bit. New girls your age are getting my covers instead of me.” Fleur de Lis made a very un-ladylike face as she followed the slightly younger mares. “It’s not a bad thing just a little reluctant to stop being the young heartthrob every little Pony looks up to. But we all have to grow up sometime I guess.” “Twist, will you show Fleur de Lis around a bit while I go handle an errand real quick?” “Sure, Silver.” Then the ginger Equine cocked her head suspiciously. “Wait did you forget something important again?” “Yes. I’d forget my tail if you didn’t drag me around by it half the time, Sweetheart.” Silver Spoon gave Twist a sweet peck on the nose and waved goodbye before bolting off towards her house. Well maybe not there was lots of stuff in that direction Twist considered. Fleur de Lis followed her flustered new friend as she was given a rather enjoyable tour of the town. Ponyville was small but expanding and it had a very friendly atmosphere. Nearly every pony they passed waved and gave a familiar greeting to the ginger earth pony. And almost everyone asked for an introduction to her pretty older friend. It wasn't like the big cities where ponies just fell over themselves taking pictures and forever asking for autographs. It wasn’t like when brown-nosers wanted to earn a favor either. It was just friendly. “This is a nice place, Twist. Every pony is just so genuine. And I’ve never seen such a well-organized weather team.” “Yeah,” Twist replied with a smile. “That’s Twilight Sparkle and Rainbow Dash. Rainbow is the North wind for Ponyville and she runs a tight ship. Twilight helps it stay organized and running smoothly.” Then Twist pointed out the popular cafe. “That place really comes alive at night. We get live music shows from the locals and even a few big names have stopped by. A few weeks ago a DJ played. She had friends in town and made an impromptu stop on her tour on the way back to Canterlot.” “Really?” “Yup. In fact one of my best friends sings there all the time. She’s really good. So is there anything you want to do? I mean other than wander around and meet and greet while we wait for Silver Spoon to reappear.” “Are there any nice shops in town? I love to see what's popular in a new place. You'd be surprised by how different fashion and food is from one town to the next. I couldn't find good Prench food outside of Prance unless I was in Las Pegasus or Canterlot. Same thing with decent saddle Arabian food. I can only get it in Trottingham, but that’s because is pretty close to the Saddle Arabian border.” “The most popular shops are across from the park. Carousel Boutique and the market square. We get all kinds of food. Most of it is country earth pony stuff but it’s all really good." “Lead the way, Hun.” Fleur de Lis was absolutely smitten with the Carousel. Rarity was more than professionally star struck by having a famous young model visiting her little boutique in Ponyville. “Dear, Ms. Fleur, are you sure there is nothing I can get for you?” “Oh, no. I’m just checking things out. It’s always fun to see what’s new in each town or city. I’ve got to say I’ve never seen an eye for detail like yours Ms. Rarity.” The two gabbed for quite a while over tea and tasty little sandwiches Rarity loved to serve her guest. “I completely understand, dear. As a fashionista it is important to always be on the cutting edge. And someone in the industry such as yourself must always be looking for the next big thing.” After Fleur made a few splurge purchases the pair was ready to leave. “Oh you simply must keep in touch,” Rarity said as she led them to the door. “I haven’t had such nice things said about my Boutique in a long while. And do keep me and Ponyville in mind. A savvy entrepreneur like myself must always nudge her contacts. I hope you don’t take offense.” Fleur de Lis shook her head a wry grin on her face. “Not at all. I look forward to seeing what comes out of the Carousel brand. And I’ll be sure to mention it to my friends. You know the ones I keep in very strategic places.” “Of course,” Rarity said winking. The door to the Carousel was closed with a flash of light blue unicorn magic and Fleur de Lis just hitched the bag of accessories she had gotten a little higher on her rump. “Oh Twist that was fun. Such a nice little place. Nothing like the franchise brands I work for. And the thigns are such good quality.” “I know right. I love Ms. Rarity. I had a crush on her a while back when I was little.” “Oh” Fleur said stifling scandalous laughter. “You did, did you? I can see why. She’s so pretty and such a lady.” “Yeah. Her little sister is like that too. She's really nice. She's the one I told you about that sings.” As the pair made their way down the dirt path towards the market square Twist stopped. “We've been out and about for a while. Don't you think Silver Spoon should have caught up with us by now?” “Perhaps,” the unicorn said. She levitated the new hairpiece she had purchased, fitting in into her long multicolored mane. “But we have been bouncing from place to place. We might just be missing each other. Why don’t we relax a bit and wait for her? I’m sure enough ponies have seen us to point her in the right direction.” “Good point,” Twist said. She didn't notice the rather sly grin on the older mare’s face as she led them to Sugarcube Corner. “She’s sure to stop in here. It’s pretty much the hub for this part of town. We come here all the time. Oh,” Twist said. “And one of my friends works here. Mrs. Cake,” Twist said peering over the low counter. “Is Pinkie in today?” “No, Twist. I think she’s been busy with one of her personal projects. I’m going to be needing more help around soon if business stays this good. Pinkie is a great worker but her own business is taking up more and more of her time, you know.” Twist smiled at the older mare who was putting a tray of still steaming cookies into a display case. She set up a fresh and hot sign over the case. “Mrs. Cake, if Silver Spoon comes in looking for me will you tell her we’re in the usual spot in the back?” “Of course, sweetie. I’ll let her know.” “You know I can tell why Silver Spoon likes you,” Fleur de Lis said when they finally got comfortable at the quiet table. “There’s something very special about you.” They were near a painted screen with a beautiful pattern of all manner of sweets. “I bet you don't even realize how beautiful it makes you.” Fleur de Lis leaned in close, smiling knowingly. “I bet you’d be surprised by who else likes you.” “Well it’s nice to know that you feel that way. But I’m sure you're what comes to mind when anypony says the word beautiful.” Fleur de Lis just laughed. "There are different kinds of beautiful, Twist. I’m the generic surface kind of beautiful. It won't last long.” Twist was a little uncomfortable with how intimate Fleur was being. She wasn't sure how to feel about the way the Unicorn was closing the space between them. She just leaned back a bit and looked at the screen to avoid making eye contact. “Would you like something Fleur? Everything here is really good. They have sandwiches and pastries. And coffee of course.” “No, not really. The snacks from the boutique will hold me for a while. So, Twist, have you ever considered leaving Ponyville? Traveling?” “Not really? I grew up here. Its home, ya’ know. Can’t imagine anywhere feeling more comfortable for me. I guess I’m just a country home body.” “I beet you’re the same way about everything,” Fleur de Lis said. “Always ignoring new options and clinging to comfortable familiarity. I’m much more of the adventurous type. Always wanting to try new things.” Twist narrowed her eyes a bit finally looking away from the screen to meet Fleur de Lis’ vibrant lilac eyes. “I,” she said more sharply than she had been intending to. “Prefer to think of it as valuing what you have, instead of chasing after the unknown.” Fleur de Lis looked thoughtful for a moment. “Then maybe I need to find something really valuable to keep, hmm. I think I might have been settling for things that weren't very special.” Luckily it was at that moment that Twist heard a familiar high voice asking for her. “Yeah, she came in a little while ago with a friend. They are in the back at the usual table, Silver Spoon.” “Thanks, Mrs. Cake.” “Hey,” Silver Spoon said a rather sheepish look on her face. “So sorry. That took way longer than I thought it would. I figured you’d find somewhere to wait a bit for me. Did you enjoy getting to know each other?” “Oh, yes,” Fleur de Lis said tilting her head and giving a beaming grin. “I learned a lot about Ponyville and Twist is an absolute delight. Such a sweet thing.” Silver Spoon was oblivious to the tension between the two. “Isn’t she though,” Silver Spoon said nuzzling Twist a bit in a display of proud affection. “She really helped me become a better pony.” > Tension > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- “I’m telling you, Silver Spoon,” Twist said heatedly. “She was hitting on me. Flirting with me and she knows we’re together.” “I… just can’t believe that. Fluer de Lis has never even mentioned being attracted to mares. Besides why would she be into you, Twist?” “WHAT IS THAT SUPPOSED TO MEAN!?” “Oh, sweetheart, don’t let me tug your tail. I just mean that like you said she knows you’re with me and I can’t imagine my friend wanting to hurt me like that.” “So,” Twist said stopping suddenly. After a few steps Silver Spoon to look back at Twist. “So, even thought you’ve known me longer, claim to love me, and haven’t seen her in a year you won’t take my word that she hit on me?” “Twist, it isn’t like that. Maybe it was just a misunderstanding. Fleur de Lis is from Canterlot and spends most of her time hobnobbing with celebrities.” “What does that have to do with anything?” Silver Spoon tried to pat Twist on the head to calm her lover but the other equine just flinched away from her hoof. “Oh, Sweetheart, I mean it’s really easy to get confused when somepony is from a whole other culture. She might not have been saying what you think she was.” “A whole other culture?” Twist just settled a flat deadpan stare at her closest friend. “She’s from Canterlot, Silver Spoon, Canterlot. Twilight Sparkle is from there and we don’t have any trouble understanding her. And yeah, Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo are from Cloudsdale do we have ‘cultural miscommunication’ with them? She’s not from Saddle Arabia or Prance. I’m sure the social cues are pretty similar in the next city over. You know what, Silver Spoon. I think I’ll have to talk to you later,” Twist said before turning around and staling off in the opposite direction. She knew that she was headed out of her way she just didn’t care. A long roundabout trip to cool off was better than walking home with Silver Spoon right now. It was a surprise when Scootaloo caught sight of Twist stomping down the street alone. “Hey,” Scoots yelled before she dropped into a free fall. “Hi, Twist, where’s your other half? Aren't you two ya’ know joined at the hip?” “No,” Twist hissed as she watched her friend hover an inch or so off the ground. She was slightly distracted by the flapping of Scootaloo’s wings as she said, “We aren't that close.” “Uhm, okay, since when? Wasn't she just kissing you at the swimming hole a few days ago?” Twist seethed silently for a moment before she replied. “Let’s just say we’re having issues right now.” “I'm sorry, Twist. What happened?” “Her friend Fleur de Lis was blatantly hitting on me while we were hanging out and then when I told silver Spoon she didn't believe me.” “Ouch. That must suck. But, to be honest,” Scootaloo said fluttering an inch backwards cautiously. “I mean I can’t blame Silver Spoon though.” “WHAT!?” “She isn’t the best at making friends so I get why she would be reluctant to confront one. Why she would be a little defensive of her friends.” Twist had to reluctantly nod… she didn’t like it though. “So why didn’t she believe you?” “She blatantly said I was lying when I told her Fleur made me uncomfortable. She said I was just misunderstanding her.” Scootaloo visibly winced at the harsh tone and her ear flicked in nervousness when she replied, “Give it a couple of hours so you can calm down and try again. If Fleur pulls something again then just stop talking to her. It definitely isn’t right to push yourself on anypony especially when they tell you straight up they aren’t interested.” “It hurt that she just automatically assumed I was wrong. She didn't even say, ‘I'll talk to her make sure she knows you’re not interested. She didn’t even try to make me feel better. No! she was just YOU misunderstood, Twist. She said why would she be interested in me? Like I’m not worth some pretty snooty Canterlot mare being interested in.” Scoots let her hooves touch the ground and sighed. “Come on let's go get you a drink, my treat. Maybe we can find somepony to help us out with this mess.” “Find somepony.” “Yeah I'm the last pony to ask about relationships, Twist," Scoot said shuddering slightly. “Need I remind you about Cherrybomb or Freefall. You know, or the worst of them all that jerk from Trottingham, what was his name?” “Whiplash was his name,” Twist said smiling a little now that most of her snorting stamping rage had burnt out. “And yeah, good point. Now how about those drinks?” “Yeah, if anypony needs a huge coffee it’s you. Extra cinnamon sugar. Come on.” Twist’s weakness for very strong coffee with a… liberal dash of cinnamon sugar powder was not a secret in town. In fact when she stepped up to the counter at her favorite coffee shop the barista was already calling her order. “And for your friend,” he asked looking at Scootaloo hovering behind her. “Oh, a double shot of rainbow juice with blueberry sprinkles.” Twist shuddered as Scootaloo handed over a few bits to pay for the drinks. She was embarrassed to say it but Sugarcube Corner was not her favorite coffee shop. The food was amazing as were the pastries and the atmosphere… however to coffee left a lot to be desired especially when one has a weakness for good coffee like Twist. “How can you drink that stuff? It tastes like electricity.” “It’s an acquired taste, Twist,” Scootaloo said grinning. “One you’d need wings to acquire I guess. Can’t say I’ve met anypony who’s not a Pegasus that likes rainbow juice. You feel any better?” “Yeah,” Twist said as she took the cup from the counter. “I do feel a bit better. Still not happy this happened but… you know better. I don’t know if it’s going to work out with Silver if she isn’t willing to listen to me. Especially with something as important as this was ya’ know.” “I know. But don’t go jumping ahead. It might just take a while for it to get through to her. I don’t want to see either of you hurt and you know breakups hurt.” Scootaloo took a sip of the tall rainbow juice and her expression blanched. “Trust me on that. And you've been with Silver Spoon longer than I was with any of my failures. So I’m betting it will hurt worse for you.” “Not. Helping. Scoots.” “Heh, Sorry. Told you I was the last pony to ask. I can totally lend you a hoof to feeling better about this though.” Twist smiled as they lazily enjoyed their drinks for a moment. “Yeah, I think I just needed to vent.” ------------------------ Silver Spoon hummed as she primped in front of the mirror in her room. The jewel handled brush made her mane shine as she ran it through the long delicately curling hair. She really wished she had the opportunity to wear it down. She shook it out watching it bounce along her neck and shoulders. A glimmering magic scroll appeared on Silver Spoon's Vanity. “Hmm?” the note was short and simple. Want to go on an adventure? The young mare scrounged in her vanity for a pen or a pencil. Sure. She heard a whistle And jumped in shock. Then she looked out her window and saw Fleur De Lis there in a rather fetching party dress and shiny hoofshoes. Her friend grinned and waved a hoof telling Silver Spoon to step back. The younger equine complied and in a burst of dazzling pink and purple magic Fleur de Lis was standing nose to nose with her friend ginning. “I have a great idea, Silver Spoon. Put on your best dress. Oh you should leave your mane down it’s so pretty.” “Thanks. So is anyone else going on this little adventure?” “Nope,” she said. “Just us. Now that I’m all settled in at the inn. I want to do something fun before it gets too late.” “Where are we going?” “Canterlot.” > Boiling Point > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The popular Canterlot club was loud and exciting... and nothing like Silver Spoon had seen before. It was also not exactly where she had been expecting to end up. The pair could hear the music before they even made it inside. “Are you sure I should be here? I mean I don’t think....” “Oh, hush, Hun,” Fleur de Lis said as she gracefully strutted right past the line of ponies waiting to get in. Silver Spoon looked a great deal older than she actually was courtesy of the very bold makeup Fleur had done emphasizing her features. She followed the older unicorn mare to the door where she blew a kiss at the big clydesdale earthpony stallion. “Remember me, Steel Shield?” “Of course,” the black coated stallion said in a deep heavily accented voice. “Nopony could forget you.” Fleur de Lis laughed flicking her tail. “Think you can do me and my friend here a solid? This is a really long line and we have to be home before sunrise you know.” “Oh, really? I think I can help you ladies out,” he said. He unclipped the red velvet rope to the club. “Tell Lemon Twist I sent you.” There was a parade of annoyed groans. Fleur gave the big stallion a sweet nuzzle before pulling Silver Spoon into the club. The noise was deafening and it was hot and smelled like sweat. “Come on this place has great drinks, Hun.” Silver Spoon was jostled by ponies in the crowd as they headed or the bar. “Hi, Lemon Twist, Steel Shield sent me and he told me to get two lemon drops.” The handsome bartender with the fiery red mane and very large powerful white wings smiled at the pair. “Alright two on the VIP tab.” “Extra lemon in one.” “No problem, Beautiful. I love giving drinks to pretty fillies.” A delicate little glass filled with glowing yellow liquid floated in front of Silver Spoon’s nose. It had a perfect spear of lemon candy on the bottom. Fleur de Lis knocked back the shot with practiced ease, catching the candy to melt on her tongue. “Try it, Silver, it’s so good.” “I don’t want it. I…” “Aww and here I was thinking you were the type of pony who knew how to have a good time, Silver Spoon.” Silver spoon flushed at the jibe and knocked back the drink. It tasted like slightly sour lemonade and she coughed after she swallowed it. The drink wasn't bad. She hadn't been expecting the bitter aftertaste of the alcohol though. She smiled a bit as Floor stamped her hoovesi n approval. “That a girl. You're a bit too precious for Ponyville, Silver Spoon. Another round, please, Lemon Twist.” “Gimme’ a kiss, Beautiful, you know I deserve a tip. Maybe just for old times sake?” Fleur de Lis gladly leaned over the marble bartop to give Lemon Twist a rather steamy kiss. “Mmm,” he groaned. “I miss having you around, Fleur,” he said as he readily made the second round of tangy drinks. “No other pony in Canterlot is quite like you.” “Make sure you say that when the tabloids show up asking about my night out.” After the pair downed their second round of drinks Fleur de Lis led her friend towards the crowded dance floor. The drinks and the few minutes in the noisy club had left Silver Spoon slightly dazed. The music no longer made her head pound and she kind of liked it now. A husky female voice reverberated on the speakers “Drop your it like I'm about to drop this beat.” There was a brutal shift in the music as the bass dropped and the overbeat went quiet.” The voice sounded vaguely familiar to Silver Spoon as Fleur de Lis grabbed her, hoisting her up to stand on her back hooves to dance. “Loosen up, Hun, just move with the music. With me.” Silver Spoon awkwardly swayed with her friend her balance wasn't very good on two hooves and the music was fast and hard for her to move to. But Fleur de Lis was there pulling her body smoothly, keeping her in beat with the thumping rhythm. She laughed as she shimmied and gyrated with her friend to the music. Hooves stamped as the long song ended and the DJs husky smoky laugh rang out. The lights flashed and a panel moved revealing the clear plexiglass enclosure of the DJ booth. “I see I need to turn up the bass.” Smoke drifted from the cigarette in the DJ’s mouth and her shades reflected the dizzying light, changing colors as another song began. She bobbed her electric blue maned head as the music shifted again. This time a stallion tapped Fleur de Lis on the shoulder with a big hoof. “Can I cut in?” “Hmm?” The unicorn gave the stallion an apprising look and nodded stepping away from her friend. “Yes, I’d love to dance with you.” Silver Spoon took the chance to sneak away to rest in a corner while Fleur got close to her new friend. After a while she relaxed and enjoyed the music and a server even brought her another drink this time with a little snack bowl too. When Fleur came back the stallion leaning against her she said, “You all tired out, hmm?” “Kind of,” Silver Spoon admitted. “This was kind of fun though. I really like them usic she came and played in POnyville a while back.” “Let’s get you home, Hun.” Fleur de Lis let her magic flow over her long elegant horn and it fluttered in sprinkles over Silver Spoon. “I'll see you tomorrow.” Silver Spoon was shifted and the next thing she knew she was sanding in her room again. Her clock said four in the morning. She yawned and collapsed on her bed with her clothes and makeup still on. She woke up groggy, irritable, and with a horrible headache as somepony knocked on her bedroom door. “Silver Spoon,” Twist said coming in cautiously. “Are you okay? We were…” Twist eyed the barely awake young mare. “You’re sleeping in your clothes?” “Ughhhhh, Yeah. Just sort of collapsed a little when I got back in last night. Guess I didn't even bother taking the dress or shoes off. This dress will need to go to the laundry,” she said a little testily. “Where did you go? You've got makeup all over your pillows and blankets.” Silver Spoon pulled the soiled blankets tighter to her body. “I went out with Fleur,” Silver Spoon said looking at her sweetheart from under the covers with bleary eyes. “It was different. She teleported is to this club in Canterlot. I had fun. I asked if she wanted you and the others but she said she wanted it to just be me and her.” “You what? Do you know how much trouble you could have gotten into? What if someone had carded you? What if something had happened?” “It was fine. No one knows me and it was pretty dark in the club.” Silver Spoon yawned and crawled out of her bed. She kicked off the hoof shoes. “What are you even doing here this early, Twist?” The pretty silver filly straightened her crooked glasses, which she had also worn to bed. Twist hated to admit it but it hurt her when Silver Spoon didn't call her sweetheart. “Early,” she said ignoring the stab to her heart. “I’m not early. You were late; so late in fact that the girls sent me to find you. Remember you were supposed to meet us in the park with your uppity friend this morning. It's almost noon. We waited over an hour.” “Uppity? She’s not uppity! Fleur is really sweet and exciting. She took me out and we had fun. I've never done anything like that. Actually,” Silver Spoon said after a moment. I don't think she’d want to come hang out at the park with us anyway. When she sent me home she was all nuzzled up with a colt. Well a stallion he looked a bit older.” “So she ditched you? Let me get this straight, she hit on your very special some pony, took you out somewhere without your dad's permission you aren’t even legally allowed to go, left you to go rut with a stallion she just met, but yeah she's too good to hang out with us?” “I never said that! I said she probably wouldn't want to. Look, I'm sorry I overslept and,” then suddenly Silver Spoon stopped. “You know what,” she said in her most acidic snide tone. “No I’m not. You think you’re so perfect and friendly and lovable but you aren't. You’re just petty and jealous that I have a friend who is more exciting, fun, and prettier than yours. You can’t stand that I’m friends with Fleur de Lis. You’ve never liked anyone I’ve liked. I get that Diamond Tiara was about as good a friend as the back end of a cow but, you couldn’t approve of one pony I liked?” “They were all money grubbing brown nosers.” “THEY WERE NICE TO ME!! And now I’m sure you made up what you said about Fleur hitting on you. She was only interested in stallions last night and she never even mentioned you. So stop flattering yourself. You just don’t like her because she likes me and doesn't like you!” Silver Spoon gave a throaty falsetto laugh that sounded crooked. “Well I’m going to need you to get over yourself, Twist. You aren't perfect and not everypony is going to be tripping over themselves for you, Sweetheart. In fact without me you’d be a bucktoothed dork who couldn't even brush her own mane and coat and no way someone like Fleur would ever look at you.” “I shouldn’t have worried about you. I’m sorry you think so poorly of me and my friends. I never should have tried to be friends or anything more with you at all. You belong with ponies like her and Diamond Tiara. I hope you have fun having fake friends who backstab you and don’t care about you!! Go have fun with Fleur de Lis.” Twist stalked off slamming Silver Spoon’s door behind her. As she ran out past Filigree the hot tears stained her face and she could barely breathe from the heartache. > Epilogue: Signed with a kiss > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- I"d like otthank everyone who followed this little story I know it isn't the greatest but it was fun to write and I really enjoyed getting your feedback. “Are you sure about this, Precious,” Twist asked looking over her marefriend's shoulder at the intimidatingly blank scroll on the desk. Silver Spoon had gotten used to her new nickname over the last week. But she had never been as prone ot blushing as Twist anyway. “Yeah, Twilight Sparkle said it would be a good idea,” Besides she said taking the quill in a hoof carefully. “I'd feel better about it you know. We need to apologize for ruining her trip to Ponyville and all that mess that happened.” “Fair enough, Precious. So what should we say?” “I say we start with 'Hi, we're sorry'.” Dear Fleur de Lis, How are you? Me and Twist are writing this to apologize for ruining your visit to Ponyville. We really had no intention of pulling you into our personal problems we were being to stubborn to deal with. And we know you were excited to get away from the bustle and visit us. “Oh! Tell her I hope she can decides to visit again,” Twist said letting her head drop comfortably on Silver Spoon's shoulder. Silver Spoon nodded and went back to writing as the sun started it's decent for the evening. Twist says she hopes you visit again so she can apologize in person and really get to know you. I hope so too. I hope you can forgive us and are willing to still call us your friends. I really don't want you to have a bad memories of us. I bet you're super busy I haven't been doing much of anything because Twist blabbed to one of her friends and it got back to my dad that I snuck out with you. So I'm housebound. Luckily my Sweetheart is keeping me company so I don't get too bored. “Hey! Sweetie Belle can't help it that she's bad and keeping secrets. I didn't know Ms. Rarity worked so closely with your dad on her advertisements and trading cards. Besides you didn't even get in that much trouble considering.” “Yeah, you're right. Just don't go telling any of them where me and Fleur went I don't think I'd ever be able to do anything again if my dad finds out I went clubbing in Canterlot. What else should we say?” Twist thought about it for a moment and then she had an idea. “Tell her thanks. We learned a lot about what we were doing wrong from her, didn't we?” We also want to say thanks, Fleur de Lis. We want to say thanks for bringing our problems up so we could deal with them early. I can only imagine it being worse if we had kept not dealing with it. And I also want to let you know we are happy you came. Both of the fillies signed the parchment before it vanished in a wisp of magic. Silver Spoon craned her neck to give her sweetheart a kiss “I knew I'd feel better,” she said when she leaned away. “Do you?” “Yeah, I think I do,” She said plopping a wet peck on Silver Spoon's nose. “Do you want to play cards with me? If I win we do what I want. You win we do what you want.”