Boiling Fantasy

"Spike!" Rarity cried through her burning blush, "Harder!"

The dragon moaned in reply, thrusting his manhood deeper into the mares tight, warm, lavender colored vagina. Glistening scales powerfully slapped against her buttocks, causing her to form to rock back and forth violently atop her creation table. Coiffing her tail high in the air to allow his velvety steel manhood to slide deeper inside her. His musky scent peppered the air, wings stretched outward and claws deeply digging into her diamond studded hips.

"Nhm, nhhmmmf! Ahhh!" Rarity screamed through clenched teeth, pleasure coursing through her like hot water. Vagina painfully throbbing with desire as she squeezed his broad member. Spike let out a roar, quivering and delivering a final forceful plow. Hot cum began to fill her, overflowing and dripping down her hind legs like molten ice cream. He kissed and nibbled her neck. She shook as he gently glided his penis backwards and forward, rotating his hips and he pushed down on her shoulders.

"Rarity!"

The dazzling white unicorn jumped. "Oh, I apologize Sweetie. I was trying to juggle my fiances of the Manehatten store post Spring Line. Now have may I help you?"

"Uh, yeah. You were going to help me and the girls set up the booth for the Summer Sun Celebration by Twilight's castle today. Remember?"

"Why yes, of course." she said, wincing at the drizzles of coral pink in the mulberry sunset. "It appears I set it off more than intended."

Sweetie Bell snarled at her, before sighing and letting her head fall. "It's okay, I know you've been busy. But we haven't been able to do this without you. I wanted to get this done before the sun set."

"And it is a whole two more days until the event darling. I understand your frustration, but I will just have to make time tomorrow. I am sure I can schedule the lunch with Applejack another day."

"I hope so." Sweetie replied, brushing her long curly hair out of her eyes, nearly obscuring the mint eye shadow she had on. The mare now stood half a hoof taller than herself, always wearing satin shirts and puffy yoga pants in contrast to her silky dresses. She briskly walked out of the Boutique, leaving Rarity alone once more.

Sighing, she continued on the sketch of a winter coat she had previously been working on. Heart heavy knowing that Sweetie Belle would probably leave the nest of her home soon. It seemed like only yesterday she was worrying about her cutie mark before getting it and blossoming into womanhood. She was set to attend college in this fall, followed by Apple Bloom.

She glanced back up at the sky, groaning as the realization of all the work that needed to be done. Allowing herself to escape back into her thoughts once more.

Rarity splayed out on her bed, show casing her thick thighs. A hot puddle gathered on her scarlet panties as she let out a giggle. A cool claw slid down her head, ending at her magenta sweater.

"Tsk tsk," Spike murmured, "What have we here?"

"Sorry Spikey Wikey, I hadn't enough time to take everything off before your return."

"This just won't do," he cooed, slipping it off on her and caressing her furry torso with one hand. Leaving a trail of kisses until he stumbled upon her nearly flat teet. Suckling on it and pulling down her panties in unison. Softly sliding in a finger into her vagina and rubbing her clitoris with his thumb, causing her to whimper.

"Do you like that?" he murmured through sucks.

"Very much," she moaned sharply inhaling as he stuck two more fingers in. "Spike, that's too much! I am too tight!"

He chuckled, smiling at her as he pulled them all out. "I know." He lowered his head into her marehood, nibbling at it before slithering his tongue into her. Thumb once again feverishly working. Twitching and starting to gasp as a grin melted onto her face.

"Wow Rairty, that really does stand out from the castle." Twilight chimed, passing the green and yellow booth. Wearing a blue kimono with her hair clipped stylishly into a bun.

"I told you," she sang, "And I am only getting started darling. It will look absolutely divine."

"I don't doubt it!"

Three other mares came cantering up with a wagon full of ribbons and sun-theme decorations- Apple Bloom pulling it. Scootalo trotted a few paces ahead, impatiently glaring backwards, no doubt eager to help Rainbow Dash at town hall. Rarity allowed her cerulean magic to grip at a paint brush covered in orange paint, highlighting the edges.

"Huh, that really is coming along gorgeous Rarity." the buttery yellow mare called. "Not that we'd expect anything less."

Sweetie Belle rolled her eyes, but cast an approving gaze towards it.

"I'll met you at the Boutique still, right?" Twilight inquired, smiling nervously.

"Of course dear, all of you. There's no way of telling where the festival will take us tomorrow, so we might as well celebrate our Friend-iversary today."

"Mmhm!" Twilight hummed, taking flight. "Spike will be along too, though be may be a little late."

"Whatever for?"

"He is overseeing the preparations for the Celebration in the DragonLands currently, though I suspect he has already started his way back."

"Ah, yes, I had almost forgotten. See you there then!"

Turning around she nearly bumped into Apple Bloom's side. Unfazed by this, she lifted a box out of their load, calling everypony over. Unveiling a large pie with strips stylized to look like a cartoonish sun. Each receiving a slice and taking generous bites, marveling at the perfection of the Apple Families trade mark apple pie.

"Do you think these'll sell well?" Apple Bloom asked coyly.

"Oh stop, they always do," Sweetie contested through a mouthful.

"Farm could use the money after the most recent disaster is all."

Scootaloo carried armfuls of decorations, hastily pinning them to the booth, a beard of crust and apple filling decorating her muzzle.

"What's the hurry now?" sighed Apple Bloom, "You know girls, we wouldn't even know each other without this here event that brought our sisters together. Including honorary."

The orange pegasi slowed guiltily. "Yeah, that's true. We still could have eventually bumped into each other, but I doubt it would be the same."

Sweetie Bell smiled calmly, looking out at the two of them. "You know, we should really do more than the annual selling of the pies to celebrate. You'd think we would seeing how connected we are- right down to the cutie mark."

Rarity chuckled at this exchange, fixing the decorations sloppily strewn around. Sadness began to well in her as she pondered how much she got to see her own friends nowadays. Sure, they still celebrated this time of year, but friendship quests had expanded to let many other ponies and creatures to do their work to the point where she seldom saw them all in the same month.

It occurred to her that tomorrow would also mark the day she met Spike, and making a light fuss over that wouldn't be seen as too odd. Feeling her pussy swell with wetness thinking about the dragon, she took a deep breath, trying to clear here mind. Taking a meditative bite out of her pie she stared out at the booth.

"Sweetie, I do apologize it is much later than I thought. You wouldn't terribly mind if I checked in later, would you?"

Sweetie Bell scrunched her muzzle with a disgusted, undignified look before groaning and smiling, "Fine, it would make more sense for me and the girls to finish this together. And thank you for the work you did Rarity, it already looks smashing."

Rarity thrursted herself up and down, coating Spike's penis with her juices.

"Faster!" he barked at her, slapping her ass.

"I'm-I'm trying!" she barley got out. Burying her front hooves deeper into his chest and thrashing her hips.

"Faster!"

"I can't" she whined, tears washing over her blush.

Digging his teeth into her neck, he pressed down slowly until she found the strength to propel and drop herself more than before. Thighs screaming with splitting pain, which he promptly slapped. She let out a scream but continued, heavily panting as sweat matted her fur. Hot cum began to flow through her, tumbling down his scales and onto the crystal floor, but she didn't dare stop. Spike jammed his member deeply into her, causing her to sharply cry out when it could go no further.

"Spike Stop! It hurts!"

Spike continued, pushing in her thighs to make the space tighter. Rarity choked on sobs and her own cum soaked them.

"I can't believe it either," Applejack drawled, "Fillies one minute, College FreshMare's the next!"

The pair tredded on the rabbit bitten trails of Sweet Apple acres. Paths of verdant trees littered their walk, the scent of ripe apples a fragrant perfume.

"Applejack?" Rarity breathed sheepishly, "Do you....? Oh heavens, forget it."

Raising an eyebrow, the orange mare in red plaid looked questionably at her.

"It's too embarrassing to ask."

Applejack furrowed her brow and cast a beady, concerned stare at her. "Rarity, you can ask me anything, don't be embarrassed."

"Yes, well it's...Do you ever get...lonely?"

"In what way?"

"You know...romantically. In an...intimate sense."

"Ooh?" the mare piped, blushing slightly,"Well now, um... I suppose so. There any cryptic message in there Rarity?"

The unicorn shook her head, "No, sorry Applejack. I didn't mean to be so invasive. It's just...been getting a little hard for me is all. Feeling alone and feeling I am alone in feeling that way."

Applejack chuckled, "Well now, ya' ain't alone in that, if that makes you feel better."

Rarity breathed, "Thank you Applejack. That makes me feel a lot better. It's been so long, you know. Has...it been long for you?"

The farm horse scrunched her muzzle and twitched her tail, "Rarity I don't know if- Yeah, it's been a long time for me too. Years."

"Me too, thank you again."

Grass under-hoof turned to gravel and dirt trails, Rarity nervously pulling up her cherry colored dress. Wind gently tugged on the twosome, cotton floating softly on the breeze as the evening summer sun beat down on them. A chorus of ponies getting ready for the festival around them as they cantered throughout the town and towards the Boutique.

"You been okay Rarity?" Applejack suddenly inquired. "I know how that kinda thing can get to you. 'Spically since we don't see each other like we used to. I can imagine it gets a little...maddening just sewing inside all day."

"I'm fine 'Jack, though your concern really does help."

"Can you fit in a spa day this weekend?"

Rarity threw an enthusiastic smile her way, "Truly? Why of course!"

Bells chimed overhead as they entered the dimly lit Boutique, immediately being hit with the scent of various foods.

"We're here!" Rarity sang, rushing to the kitchen to find all of her friends. They all ambled around, fixing up plates and setting down new food. Twilight and Fluttershy giggling on the rug through sips of lemonade noticed her first. Fluttershy wore a purple dress with small white lilies, comfortably extending her wings as she rose.

"Oh Rarity! It's really been too lo-"

"Rarity!" Pinkie Pie yelled, hitting the mare like a canon ball with a hug. "How've you been?"

"Ms. Pie! " she growled, but returning the embrace, "We just saw each other yonder day.

Rarity couldn't help but let the hug linger, making small chat so she could nuzzle herself in Pinkie's neck. She had been starved of physical contact for so long this was true bliss. Nearly quivering when Fluttershy took over, overwhelmed with happiness. Unable to help but rub her nose against her as well, filling the nostrils with her scent; a flowery, meadow field.

Joining every pony on the floor and beginning in the gift exchange. Receiving a plush butterfly, novel written by a leading fashion designer, and many more. Stirring a raspberry daiquiri and sipping deeply, laughing along and catching up. Applejack sitting close beside her, shuffling closer to her after finishing her own scotch.

"We really need to get together more often you guys." Rainbow Dash rasped, already wearing the saddlebag Rarity had laboriously made for her.

"Should we walk out to the Everfree?" Twilight cooed airily, "To get closer to the Elements that connected us?"

"But Twilight, if we do that we will be too tired to watch the sun rise." the yellow pegasi murmured.

"Most of us watch the sun rise every day 'Shy." Rainbow contested.

"I personally think it's an excellent idea." Rarity announced, struggling onto her knees. "Something we all used to do."

"You're right!" Pinkie reflected, jumping up. "When did we stop doing that?"

"Li'l after the School Opened I supposed," tiredly sighed Applejack, "We all had so much goin' on scheduling became impossible."

"I'm sorry girls," Twilight said, looking out at them with doleful eyes, "I should have realized. We all really have drifted apart, haven't we?"

Rarity's eyes stretched up, mouth slightly open in astonishment, soon spreading into a smile. "Oh girls, this can always be fixed."

"Huh huh, yeah," Applejack hiccuped, "Rarity needs company more than ever." The mare realized how that came out and pinned back her ears in guilt. "Oops, sorry Rare."

Her friends looked back at her with concern. Cringing up a smile and pinning back her own ears, she groaned, "It's true I suppose."

"What's wrong?" Fluttershy demanded, getting back up and offering to put a wing around her, "Has something happened?"

"Well, no, not exactly. That's the problem."

"Say what now?" Pinkie asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Then what is it? You can tell us, you know that." Twilight lightly touching one of her hooves.

"I've just been-"

"Rare's been feelin' lonely and hasn't been intimate in a while." Applejack spat out.

Silence grew like mold in the room before a few giggles broke out. Fluttershy tightened her wing grip and Applejack pushed herself against her even further. Twilight put another hoof onto the one and gave her a bright smile.

"I think it's been a while for most of us, right girls?"

"Eeyup." Applejack chuckled, holding up a hoof.

Quiet consumed the room once more as the other three rubbed their necks guiltily.

"Well, I mean it's been a few months for me." Fluttershy admitted.

Rarity felt a envious fire ignite in her staring out at them. Fluttershy had been able to find somepony interested enough in her, why couldn't she? Knowing it was superficial she began to drop it. There was more to like than sex, and how could she feel lonely in a room of her best friends? Friends she had saved the world with.

"It really doesn't matter."

"Rarity..." Twilight breathed, a tinge of sadness on her face, "I-"

"Twilight, it really is okay. There is more to like than that. Besides, how could I feel lonesome in a room filled with all of you? My best friends."

"Oh you." Pinkie Pie cried, shoving herself through to give her a hug around the neck. "We'll make sure to check up on you and eachother, right girls?"

"Right!" they all said in unison, laughing once more.

"Been a while since we've done that." Rainbow snorted through her egg salad sandwich.

"I think it would be a marvelous idea to get to that tree posthaste however." Rarity announced, "And perhaps watch the sunrise by the Tree of Harmony?"

Nodding they all clambered to their hooves. Rarity couldn't help but miss the warmth of all of their touches that she could feel genuine care flow through. Applejack stumbled a little, before bumping back into Rarity.

"Sorry 'bout that. And sorry about earlier."

"Don't be darling. It was a lot harder to get it out to a room full of ponies. And I think it ran much more smoothly than it would have if you allowed me to bumble there and I would've been prodded with uncomfortable questions."

"Well, here's to hopin' the both of us are prodded with something else here soon."

"Oh Applejack, you dog you."

Trotting outside into the cool stillness of night, they looked up at the jeweled sky. Rainbow Dash flew overhead, orange t-shirt rustling in the breeze.

"I thought Spike was supposed to be here by now?" Fluttershy whispered.

Rarity's tail twitched, feeling a tingle in her marehood being reminded of this. Eagerly looking skywards and adjusting her dress with her magic. Composing herself and thinking of topics to bring up when he arrived.

"You're right, I am a little worried." Twilight said, beady eyed. "I'll teleport to the castle to see if he accidentally went there. You guys keep going, we know where to meet you."

With that Twilight was gone in a magenta flash, crack echoing off Rarity's home and trees.

"You heard the Princess, lets get a'goin'! Yee Haw!" AppleJack said, attempting to rear up, falling back down only half way.

The five glided past the town and into the Everfree forest. Rarity carefully carried herself over damp vines and broken trunks, distastefully eyeing her hooves, soddened with sun baked mud. Fluttershy had fallen behind with her, warning her of upcoming rocks and puddles.

"You know, I've been thinking of going back to college." the pegasi smiled.

"Oh? Why's that?" Rarity asked, invested but also pulling most of her focus in making sure her ensemble did not get ruined- it had taken her a month to get it right.

"Well, ever since we hired a few more teachers at the school, I've had a lot of free time open up. And well, the school is only open certain times of the year, I just thought I should get more education than friendship. I have thought about going to get my Veterinary Licence, since everypony seems to come to be for their animal needs, I probably should be official in case anyone throws a fuss. I only ever completed a four year program way back when."

"That does sound like a good idea Fluttershy. I am a tad envious, I wish I had time to attend as well."

"Oh Rarity, you're already living your dream though, right? You've become the highest staple in fashion in recent years with countless stores. I was kind of worried you may have to move away. We all were."

"Nothing could tear me away from PonyVille darling. Well, expect maybe a particularly nice place in Canterlot. Though none of you would be there. And Opalescence ignores me for the most part ever since I got Topaz last month."

"The adorable orange tabby? Oh Rarity, would you like to have tea soon? Say next Monday?"

The unicorns eyes widened, "Why of course dear! Something the matter?"

"It's nothing, we just haven't done that in a while."

The moon hung low by the time they arrived at the stairs. Below she could see two purple shapes moving. Her heart hammered in her chest, but she made herself steady her breathing and walk at a normal pace. Helping steady the wobbly AppleJack, feeling slightly dizzy herself.

Twilight surrounded a plush blanket with her magic, spreading it on the ground. Scattering pillows about- each the color of the owners coat. The crystalline tree scintillated in the little light of night; Elements emanating softly, casting pools of light from each on the ground. Thicket bound crickets chirped a light melody. The beautiful sight made Rarity feel light- until a heatwave overcame her as she spotted a dragon fluffing her pillow.

Now as large as a stallion, he wore a masculine cinnamon kimono- one from her very line. Scales sparkling like the purest amethyst and peridot. His jaw sharply squared, spines chiseled and wings strongly pulled against his back. Walking on all fours, his tail slithered behind him on the ground. Eyes the color of a sunlight pine tree flashed playfully as he saw the group.

"Where were you, Spike?" Rarity asked with concern, "I had set aside some emeralds for you, I apologize, I should have brought them along."

"At the Castle. Don't sweat it Rare." he said in a silvery voice, "Celebrating the day I met all of you, with you, is more important than some snack."

Rarity's marehood began to pound painfully against her panties looking at his broad arms and legs. "Of course, let's sit then?"

Carefully timing when she sat so she would shoulder the handsome dragon, careful to place her leg over the searing puddle forming as to not give herself away. His musky scent was even more intoxicating than in her fantasies, unable to help but whimper. Getting goosebumbs when he looked at her in concern.

"No fret darling, just pulled my own tail."

Nodding, he turned his head back to the sky. Looking around she noticed how heavy everypony's eyes were with tiredness. Twilight sat down by her, yawning and unintentionally nudging her. Pinkie and Rainbow continued a lively conversation however, hiding their tiredness well.

"What were you doing at the Castle by the way Spike?" Rarity asked, stretching her front legs closer to his.

His face flushed an almost indistinguishable pink, "Getting a pie from the Warm Welcome Sun booth. The decorations there were gorgeous, I think you'd agree Rarity."

Smugly chuckling, she replied, "I think I would. I helped set it up."

Twilight chuckled behind a hoof. Rarity leaned in closer to her, offended. "Something funny?"

The alicorn motioned for her to come closer. "Sorry, no it's not that. It just seems like Spike has his first real crush!"

Rarity attempted to hide the burning sensation in her face and calm the boiling of her blood. "Ooh? Who?" she asked, trying to sound giddy and childish.

"Haha, you'll never believe it. Sweetie Bell. Funny coincidence, right? He's been making excuses to see her around town for weeks now"

"Ha, yeah, hilarious."

Lust Among Apples

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Rarity's muscles groaned with tiredness upon returning home. Melancholy flooding her as she wave goodbye to her friends. Running to her room with heavy steps, tears already flowing down her face. Ice flowed through her veins and glass pumped through her heart.

"His first real crush!" she snarled into her pillow , "We'll see about that! I won't let Sweetie steal him. I doubt many ponies really could want to be plowed by a dragon like me."

Sighing she curled comfortably underneath her blankets, mumbling "There's more to life than that. Honestly Rarity, you are acting like a horny teenager. Just keep yourself busy and this'll all pass."

"Spike!!!" Rarity panted, nailed against the wall, calves thrashing midair. "That's too hard!"

The dragon continued the assault, smacking against her ass, holding a thigh in one hand, flicking her clitoris with the other. Squeezing her in his thighs and clenching his back and leg muscles.

"Nhm! Ah! Ahh!" Rarity whined, as he plowed his manhood deeper into her, stretching her lavender anus that constricted it. She gently rolled her hips to ease the pain, causing the dragon to quake with shivers of pleasure. He slid two fingers into her marehood, creating tiny squelches as he tenderly massaged his penis and her walls from inside.

"Bw-ah! Ah Aahhh!! she cried, thrashing her head and blushing, feeling her hot juices explode around him, drenching her hips and raining on the crystal floor.

Spike gingerly nibbled her neck, before barring his jaws deeper into her, creating beads of blood to stain her white coat. His cum searing the inside of her already boiling vagina, soaking her even further.

Upon waking the day after, Rarity pulled out her sketch pad and sat on her stool, moaning and trying to get the expletive intrusive thoughts out of her head.

"Rarity?" Sweetie asked while opening the door, "Have you seen the advil? I have a horrible headache, stayed up too late last night."

"Ah, yes, it is in-" turning around to face her, she noticed how disheveled the mare's mane looked, shoulders more relaxed than usual. "Oh...? Did anything happen last night?"

"Nothing in particular. I had a little cider with the girls after we sold all the pies. Now I could really use some pain reviler for this."

"Second drawer in the bathroom." Rarity said dryly, returning to creating.

"What did I do?" Sweetie asked with malice.

"Nothing darling, I just stayed up late and didn't sleep well. I apologize for any aggression my words accidentally harbored."

Her eyes softened with concern, "It's okay. Don't push yourself too hard sis. You really should get some rest, your eyes are really red and puffy."

"I will soon Sweetie."

"Oh, and I am going out later. Spike's helping us restore the treehouse, it's a lot easier since he can fly up there. AppleJack and Big Mac are too busy to help."

Rarity shuddered imagining the orange earth pony working with a dull headache after the other night. Heart jumping at the mention of Spike's name, but feeling the bitter sting of realization she needed to let him make his choice.

"I'd better come along too actually. I have business at Sweet Apple Acre's as well."

"Alright, I'll be heading out right after this goes down."

After an hour the two white unicorns embarked towards the farm. Rarity wearing a breezy butterscotch t-shirt and dove-gray yoga shorts, hair clipped back in a lazy bun, not bothering to put on makeup. Sweetie on the other hoof wore rose-red shorts that tightly clung to her buttocks, subtlety extenuating light curves of her mare hood. And a sky-blue shirt unbuttoned slightly reveal a little torso. Her mane and tail stylishly ruffled between kempt and messy, curls bouncing with each step. Her eye shadow had evolved into a dark juniper, causing her pale green eyes to pop even more.

"My my Sweetie, this is a sudden wardrobe change."

"These are the cloths you made me for my birthday a few weeks ago, I thought I'd try them out."

Rarity pinned back her ears, understanding why Spike would have imprinted on her had she been dressing like this. Shyly glancing down at what she herself was wearing and blushing. Her sister cheerfully walked a few paces ahead of her. The overcast a stark contrast to yesterdays clear, sunny weather. Ponies all around tore apart their booths and stalls from yesterdays festival, smiling at her on passing.

"Why have you decided to restore it now of all times?" Rarity inquired, the thought striking her suddenly.

"Oh, um well, nostalgia I guess. Twilight mentioned it the other day and Spike asked what state it was in and offered to help."

Hearing that name on her lips was like venom, each time she spewed it, the harder it became to swallow her own bitterness and resentment.

"How generous!" she toothily grinned, "He really is quite the gentleman."

"You say that about any stallion who helps you." her sister attempted to tease, but this realization stung her even more, "But he really is." she finished whimsically.

Rarity scrunched up her nose, unable to definitively tell if the unicorn in front of her had the same attraction to the dragon as she did. She always sounded dreamy, so it made it monumentally hard to tell.

"What will you be doing on the farm by the by?" Sweetie asked, obviously suspicious. "Usually you mention your plans days or even weeks ahead of time."

"Oh dear, um, AppleJack asked me for some help."

"AppleJack asked you for help?" she deadpanned.

"Drop that tone this instant. She asked me to...to help with what threading should go with the quilts this year for the Reunion."

"Oh! I forgot that was coming up!" Sweetie gasped, "Wonder if Apple Bloom will invite me and Scoot again, since we're practically family."

Rarity seared holes into the back of the mares head with her glare. AppleJack had only invited her a hoof-full of times- though she was also the main one running the event and understood most activities just weren't her fortay. Still, she missed at least knowing she was thought of.

"I think you will," she admitted, "You'll appreciate this one last Hoo-Rah before college."

Sweetie snorted, "You are hilarious Rarity."

The two split off soon after entering Sweet Apple Acre's. Rarity attempting to keep a brisk walk, looking like she knew where she was going while she was still in sight before collapsing down behind a tree. Curling up and watching the breeze pull on the blades of grass.

"Rarity?" a saccharine voice piped up, "What're you doing here?"

Sugar Bell stepped in sight, a minuscule basket of apples on her back.

"I could ask the same question," she accidentally snapped, "I mean, I'm sorry, today hasn't been well and I just needed a place to go. Have you seen AppleJack around?"

"Sure! She's feeding the pigs and chickens right now over that way. And to answer your question, I am helping Big Mac haul a few apples, though it is harder than I expected." the pink unicorn blushed. Abundantly clear by the six apples to managed to procure.

"Ah yes, well keep up with that and thank you!" she said with forced cheerfulness, trotting off.

Rarity began to charge ahead upon sighting the orange farm pony, but skidding to a halt and jumped behind a tree when she spotted that she was conversing with Scootalo, Apple Bloom and Spike. Clenching her jaw nervously as she attempted to peek and listen.

What she saw spoke much more than words. Sweetie Belle strolled out from behind the hen house, motioning for every pony to get started. All nodded and chanted something motivating, turning towards the trees in the opposite direction. AppleJack had also turned her back to them, lugging up a bag of chicken feed onto her back. Spike had noticeably trailed behind the group- specifically behind Sweetie. She barley was able to see the slight nostril twitch as he lowered his long neck closer to her behind- to which she moved her curly tail to better show off her backside.

Her heart hammered in her chest until it felt like it shattered. She slide down the tree trunk and sighed. Kicking a rock with a front hoof.

" 'M Not going to pretend like I didn't see you sneakin' 'round."

The unicorn jumped, giving a starled, "Be-wah!"

"What's troublin' you Rare?" AppleJack asked sternly. "You don't just come to visit me. I covered for you and told Sweetie that you were in the barn already sortin' through thread."

"Thank you very much for that. You're a life saver. I've just been-"

"Lonely?"

"Eh-yeah..." she said, defeated.

"Well how 'bout you actually come with me and sort out that thread and we can talk 'bout this."

Nodding, she rose back up, following the earth pony to the barn. Together they pulled down boxes full of sewing supplies, Rarity organizing them out on a table and staring intently at them. Pulling particularly riveting ones closer for inspection.

"You need to find somethin' to keep you busy."

"I beg your pardon?"

"I mean somethin' other than fashion. Since that's obviously not keepin' your mind of...that."

"Oh, yes. Well thanks for the suggestion."

"No, we have to find something. I do enjoy your visits Rare, but I can see this becoming a common thing. And I don't always have the free time to hang out."

Rarity remained silent, guilt weighing heavily at her eyes.

"You've been cryin'"

"What? No I have-"

"Rarity, I have an emotional younger sister, and sensitive older brother who all try and hide when they cry well. And their coats can better hide the redness. I can blatantly tell, your eyes are as pink as budding strawberries. Spill the beans."

"I don't know how to AppleJack it's-"

"I am only goin' to ask one more time before I get upset."

"Oh AppleJack, you don't know what it's like to have your younger sister have the man of your dreams wrapped around her hoof! After he had a crush on you for years!"

The farm pony raised an eyebrow. "What? Is Sweetie into older guys too...?"

Looking around, Rarity nodded, "Yes."

"Wow, that is troubling. But why would you want someone going after someone as young as her."

"Well, I mean, he is younger than I am."

"By how much."

Rarity attempted to calculate an age that wouldn't be jarring, keeping in mind her and Sweetie's twelve year age difference. "Five years."

"That's not too bad I guess." said AppleJack with a thoughtful expression. "Who is he?"

"Oh yeah, his name is..."

"Sugarcube, I say this with love but...have you known this stallion long enough to even know his name?"

"It's WolfBane Flourish."

AppleJack snickered, "The scrawny pegasi that was a few years under us in school? He's still in PonyVille?"

"Why yes, he is. And he is a dashing gent-, cavalier."

"He's Fluttershy's cousin right? The one with earth pony parents? Maybe you should talk to him, he probably thinks you aren't interested."

"Oh, ah huh, yeah. Will do."

"In fact, I could mention it to Fluttershy and she could set something up, would you like that?"

Rarity pondered for a moment. He wasn't a bad looking stallion from what she could remember. And it would be nice to meet up with somepony from all those years ago.

"That sounds divine darling."

Late evening has arrived by the time Rarity left. Tired from helping her friend with a few extra things before trotting back. Not looking forward to seeing Sweetie at home- or rather not wanting to smell Spike's alluring scent on her. Perhaps WolfsBane wouldn't be so bad, though she expected little from it other than being a passing exchange.

The sky was a brilliant mix of orange and lavender, light gorgeously filtering through the trees. She took her time plodding up the dirt trails and inhaled the crisp scent of ripe apples. The sweetness of their scent finalized her decision to head over to Sugarcube Corner to pick something up, and perhaps chat with Pinkie a little.

PonyVille was stiller than usual for this time of day, hardly anyone was wandering about. She nervously glanced around, trying to deduce why but failing to see. Even the clouds had cleared away at this point.

She smiled as the warmth of the bakery hit her as soon as she opened the door. Cantering in casually and ringing the bell. Eagerly spying over the counter for her friend. A curly pink mane bounded down the stairs, however it was attached to a short, portly blue mare.

"Oh Rarity, what can I do for ya'?" she asked with a cheerful smile.

"Just stopping in for some chocolate cinnamon buns with strawberry icing if you wouldn't terribly mind. Is Pinkie around?"

"Sorry, she just left with the Twins, the Puppet Master decided to stay another day in PonyVille after the festival, and they still are really into that, wouldn't ya know?"

Rarity chuckled, "I am still a sucker for puppets, so I don't blame them."

Mrs. Cake disappeared back behind the counter, promising only a few minutes wait. She sat down on one of the waiting benches, humming a tune to herself and inhaling the delicious perfume of baked goods. Wishing that she could make food this delectable.

Receiving the bakers dozen of buns, already consumed one as she stepped out the door. Balancing the box on her back and slowly walking outside. Turning her head towards laughter full of merriment, halfway to her home. Ambling her way onto a hill away from the many foals spread out across the grassy field, all staring at the magnificent puppet show. Resting down, she too observed it, eating away at her fourth bun.

Wolf de Flora

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Quivering, Rarity pulled the covers up further. Rubbing her swollen stomach and rubbing her face against the pillow. Tonight was peculiarly cold for the summer, why she was unsure. No doubt Twilight or Rainbow would know.

Thunder rolled in the distance, harming her pounding head from how little sleep she had gotten last night. Sprinkles of rain trickled down the windows, lightning faintly lighting up the room every ten minutes. Groaning, she pulled herself from bed and walked downstairs to make herself some tea.

To her surprise, the kitchen light was already on. With one Sweetie Belle pulled up close to the table, sipping away at a hot chocolate with tiny marsh mellows and whipped cream. Noticing each other, they smiled.

"Rough night for you too, huh?" she asked warmly.

"Yeah, haven't been able to turn off my brain tonight." Sweetie replied, rubbing her head.

"Oh? Whatever have you been thinking about?" Rarity asked while levitating the tea pot from a cupboard and staring at her assortment of tea.

"I don't think you'd get it," Sweetie sighed, "It doesn't even make sense to me."

Sighing, she stared at the chamomile tea. "Go on dear, I'm listening and will support you."

"I don't know. Is it- is it possible to have two crushes at once?"

A glimmer of hope ignited in her chest. "Oh of course darling. We can indeed be charmed by more than one."

"But I'm not sure if either like me back."

"Oh? Who are they? Spill the tea darling."

"That's where it gets even more complicated."

"Try me darling." she cooed with eyebrows raised.

"Well, one's a... mare."

"And?"

Sweetie cast a static stare at her older sister, before laughing, wiping a tear from her eye. "You aren't opposed to it like mom and dad?"

"Very unopposed darling. I've had my own adventures dappling."

Sweetie's bottom lip trembled lightly, "That honestly really comforting. And well, it's Apple Bloom."

"Aww Sweetie, now that is just plain adorable." Rarity fawned.

"Oh stop it." she said, face flushing pink. "But yeah, she kind of is."

"And who's the other?"

Rubbing her neck, she clenched her teeth, looking down at the table. "Well, that's the-"

"Is it Spike?"

"How'd you know?!" she shrilly blurted out.

"Oh please. How much you talk about him, setting up the booth outside the castle, everypony sees you two running around PonyVille together-" her heart stung as she realized how obvious it was once she said this. "-And accepting his help with something that doesn't really need fixing. I've played this game too."

"And you don't think it's weird that he's, you know, not a pony?"

"Not really."

"Do you think he could have a crush on a Pony though? Like...in that way."

Rarity's eye twitched at that final part. Chewing her cheek she responded coolly, "Well, I don't know for absolute certain. But I think it may be unlikely for...that way. Dragons and ponies have very different biology after all."

"Oh..." she sighed mournfully, before grinning. "Well, I do appreciate you being honest with me. Hopefully it is just a faze as its only been recent, he's just so kind and sensitive."

"I think perhaps talking to Apple Bloom would be best." Rarity beamed, "Honestly, wouldn't surprise me if she reciprocates some kind of feeling."

A knock sounded on her bedroom door, abruptly waking her. Slinking out of bed, the afternoon sun caught on her deep purple mane. Opening it, Fluttershy stood in the doorway.

"Looks like I'm not the only late riser," the pegasi chuckled, "Now, should we get straight to business?"

"What business?" the unicorn yawned, stretching her back legs and motioning for her to follow into the kitchen.

Fluttershy giggled, "You know what. Your little crush."

Taken back to yesterday, she clicked her tongue, "Ah yes, well, you see-"

"How's tonight sound? Tomorrow you're going to the spa with AppleJack, and then we'll have tea and I would really like to hear how it goes then." she said with a saucy look.

"Fluttershy, you deviant. Today...actually does work for me, surprisingly." she said while pouring a bowl of vanilla oat swirl.

"Well, where were you thinking of going then?"

"Oh, um, I..." Rarity said, flabbergasted. She hadn't done this in quiet some years. "Somewhere to eat perhaps?"

"Oh he'd love that. Normally he'd probably cook for you, but he is still in the process of moving back here."

Rarity's ears pinned up, though she tried to act like she knew this. "Wow! I-"

"You'dve loved his house in Canterlot. Too bad the rock slide took most of it out. You could see so much of Equestria from it."

She smiled at her friend, "It sounds divine. I just hope he remembers me."

Fluttershy's eyes looked ready to pop out of her head, "Remembers you? Rarity, you do remember you were his first crush, right? In fact, his only crush that I can recall."

The unicorns face turned a bright red, "O-Oh?"

"And your face is plastered all over Canterlot, no, he hasn't forgotten about you. Kind of hard to. He nearly fainted when I told him you were thinking about him- he did actually. Scared the daylights out of me. Thought you'd forgotten about him a long time ago."

Guilt weighed heavily in her stomach knowing she had forgotten him up until yesterday. "So...where do you think we should go?"

"Well, you too both really like high society food, why not the noodle place across from the fabric store you go to?"

"Sounds grand."

Rarity fussed with her hair a final time before calling her friend back in the room. "Fluttershy! Are you sure this works?"

The yellow mare leaned her head inside the bathroom and gasped. "Oh Rarity, you look stunning."

The unicorn had her mane stylishly pulled up into an elegant bun with sharp bangs, glistening smoothly in the light. After washing, it looked and felt softer than a cloud. Her tail was arranged similarly, though a few ringlets spilled out, bouncing with every movement. A garnet dress hugged her in the back, displaying her smooth buttocks and bump where her marehood was; which felt particularly puffy tonight. But sloped low enough to showcase her downy torso. A sparkling necklace of emeralds and sapphires shown against her porcelain fur. Periwinkle eye shadow was the icing on the cake, causing her deep blue eyes to put the sapphires on her neck to shame.

"Gosh, I hope he brought extra boxers." Fluttershy said dryly.

"Stop it you, you're sounding more thirsty than I am. I have to admit, I am feeling a tad nervous. This has all really gone fast, I hope it doesn't send the wrong impression."

The pair giggled. "We should get going, we can order the drinks before he even gets there, and then I'll set off after I reintroduce you two."

"That's for helping me with this, you're really an angel."

The duo walked the few blocks to the restaurant, Fluttershy in a plain blue dress. "Don't worry about me, I came here earlier." she chuckled, "Their five cheese bread is to die for."

Stepping inside, they were meet with the aroma of a diverse amount of food, and employee and customer banter. The restaurant had a blue color scheme with, decorated with starry wallpaper. Above each table was an iridescent stained glass lamp, pools of diluted rainbows to leak across the table. Stepping importantly inside, and being guided to a table.

"A gentleman named WolfBane will be joining us later this evening, if you would be so kind as to point him our way." Rarity told the host.

"No problem ma'm," said the stallion, eyeing her with interest.

"If things don't work out, he seemed into you." Fluttershy whispered.

"Honestly, when did you get so filthy? I have to say, I'm loving it."

They hunkered down at a booth halfway down the restaurant. Ordering refreshments mentally preparing. Rarity taking the moment to apply a little more blush from her purse.

"Do I really look okay?" she pouted, "Maybe I should've warn the black dress."

"Rarity, stop. You look gorgeous and you know it."

The pair sat there until the drinks arrived, Fluttershy setting the other aside for her cousin. At first Rarity cheerfully reminisced about what it was like attending school at PonyVille in her youth, and how she remembered her date being. Halfway through her soda however, she nervously peered around the restaurant.

"You did tell him to meet here right? With directions?"

"You're nervous, don't worry. I can say with confidence he'll be along."

A waitress had already offered to take their food order twice, refilling her second glass by the time the two looked at each other solemnly.

"It's been half an hour." Rarity sighed. "He's just not coming. Doesn't mean I don't have to enjoy myself however. In fact, this means I can something a little messier and more of it! Would you like a dessert or something? For waiting so long with me? We shouldn't let this opportunity go to waste."

"You're right. Unless he is in the hospital right now, I don't think I will be talking to him anymore."

The waitress came back, nearly kicking them out until they made it clear they did want to order this time. After ordering a hefty amount of food, she slunk back into her seat, loosening her previously tight bun and completely undoing her tail so it draped across the space beside her.

"You know, I prefer it this way. No racked nerves or stress."

"Mm hm! I'm going to stretch my legs a little outside real quick. I'm not used to sitting down so much and my bum is hurting a skosh."

With that the yellow pegasi jumped from her seat and trotted out of sight. Rarity stretched a little beside the table, since no pony was around at this time. Grinning eagerly as a waiter came bearing out a plate of loaded nachos, corn on the cob, a hay-burger, and a generous sundae. On Fluttershy's end a small slice of boysenberry pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream laid.

Unable to hold back, she levitated half the nachos into her burger. Taking hearty bites, melted cheese, ketchup and small bits of bread, vegetables and hay clung to her face. She ravenously altered between the burger and corn, taking sips of soda when she needed more moisture to swallow.

"Now this is what I call an evening." she smiled with flecks of food staining her mouth. Outside she could see Fluttershy coming back in, however if she was comfortable eating like a wild animal around anypony, it was her. Burying her muzzle into her nacho-burger once more, she jumped when she heard a timid, soft, "P-Pardon me?"

Turning her head around, she dropped her food at what she saw. A tall, dark grey pegasi with a strong, rectangular jaw stared out at her. Wearing a dazzling mahogany suit that made his eyes stand out; which were the color of the brightest orange leaves of autumn. A long voluminous, silvery blond mane and tail were brushed back, though she could see parts that refused to stay flattened and curled in light waves.

"Sorry, I just couldn't help but notice you look a lot like the mare I am supposed to meet here tonight. I arrived early and have been waiting on the other end of the restaurant. I apologize, I should've gotten up and looked around better earlier. I put my name under Flourish, I am so sorry if that caused any confusion, that's my bad."

The two just stared at each other and said nothing for a few moments. Rarity's eyes as wide as the moon from both embarrassment and- well this stallion was treated extremely well by his sexual maturity. Her stomach felt like butterfly with knives stabbing her.

"Would you like me to just go? I would completely understand if-"

"No no, sit down darling."

"Is it really okay? Looks like somepony's pie is here. I wouldn't want to intrude after-"

"Honestly, just sit down." she snarled, not meaning to come off so aggressively, apologizing as she wiped her face. "I'm sorry. You really are too polite though. A misunderstanding is fixable. You caught me in- well a pickle I suppose." she said, plucking a third of a pickle off of her.

Thanking her and giggling, he shifting into the seat, carefully moving over the drink and pie. Pressing himself against the wall. She could see he was trying to muster the strength to look her in the eyes, but his face still gave away his guilt and nervousness.

"Would you still like to continue this?" she asked, furrowing her eyebrows sympathetically.

He nodded in reply, "Yeah, I'm really sorry it's just-"

"Hard to face your first crush?"

He cast a shell shocked expression at her, before chuckling. "Yeah, I'm sorry. It's been an extremely long time since I've done something like this."

"You're not alone in that," she said, beaming at him and meeting his warm gaze. "I just hope I've aged as well as you have."

The stallion blushed a furious red. "You're not making this any easier. And you really have, you look... ...I don't even know the word for it. Gorgeous doesn't even scratch the surface. B-but I hope you don't think I'm just interested in you physically, which I am, but, wait I mean- "

She offered a hoof to him, which he obliged. It was warm to the touch, his fur just as silky as it looked. "Shh darling. You're getting yourself all flustered, I get what you're trying to say. And I feel the same way."

"You know, I could just about faint right now. I didn't expect this to progress so well already."

"Oh my, is your blood pressure low? Here, this soda is yours, Fluttershy said it was your favorite. And well, if anything I have looks good you're welcome to it, it would be awhile before we could get you something else."

"You're too nice, you know?" he cooed, "And my blood pressure is a little low, but I could faint because I didn't envision this realistically going this way. Especially since I messed up."

"We all make mistakes dear. Though what matters is what we do after to correct them. Sorry if you don't like olives or jalapenos, they were only two bits extra and I just love them." she said, levitating some over to him.

He shyly opened his mouth, accepting the charity. Still staring out dumbfounded. "I love olives and jalapenos too." he said with a straight face, staring deep into her eyes.

The duo began to snort with laughter, catching up on what they've been up to throughout the years. Upon receiving another spoon, they split the sundae. Rarity feeding him a few spoonful, and him feeding her a couple.

The two bantered for a little while before Rarity assured him Fluttershy likely saw them and wasn't coming back for the pie. Which he sloppily scarfed down too, so "They'd be even." Pie crust and berries hung from his mouth, a few drizzles of ice cream running down. As he licked his face, she couldn't help but watched, enamored as he worked his tongue around to lap up every morsel.

"You know, when Fluttershy told me that you had a little crush on me, I just didn't know what to think. I thought it was a joke, and then I had to wonder, "what's happened to her, what's she like now?" I used to see your face everyday on the walk home from work on posters. And now I'm sitting down with the real deal and..." he rested his head on the table, mane shimmering like a waterfall of dandelion-dimonds. "I'm feeling a little light headed again, but in a good way."

"C-can I stroke your hair? Please?" she pleaded, pinning back her ears, "Sorry, that sounded creepy, it just looks so soft."

He raised an eyebrow, "If you get to touch mine do I get to touch yours?"

She giggled behind a hoof, "Ooh, that was nice and saucy. I'd say it's a deal, but be careful of the bangs, it took forever to get them this way."

Upon planting a hoof in his hair and gently rubbing, she found it was even softer than anticipated; softer than a cloud or feather. She let out a soft, pleasured whiny, causing them to both look at each other.

"I'm sorry, your hair is just so soft and downy and velvety. It just feels really good." she said, flushing pink.

He laughed, "I can tell. Never have made anyone make that noise before, it feels nice- helping you feel that way and your touch. But I think it is my turn now."

Raising his head back up so she could fit her head down, he softly placed a hoof in her hair. She could hear a moan gathering in his throat that he was trying to swallow, but finally letting it out. "Oh fuck me, your hair is amazing. It's smooth, strong and it smells just...Mmhh.." he defected into a whiny as well, blushing scarlet.

Rarity couldn't help but drool a little onto the table, her marehood felt like it was on fire with desire. Would it be rash to ask him to come back to her place only after the first date? That could scare him off. Knowing she had to play it cool, but also realizing neither could help but touch each other already yet. Her heart felt like warm water was coursing through it, repairing any recent damage. She wanted to actually get to know him first- see him smile, know his interests. And of course be plowed by this picturesque stallion until she couldn't trot straight.

"You know, I was really nervous this would be stressful for both of us. Worried what you'd think of me, wondering if I'd do something to sabotage everything. And when I saw you from across the way undoing your hair and digging into that nacho burger, I was paralyzed. I'm sorry it took me a little bit to approach you, you're just...an otherworldly, striking kind of gorgeous. Way out of my league for sure. But thank you for seeing me anyway, I hope I didn't caused too much stress."

Rarity snickered, "You're doing it again, Flourish."

"You even make my name sound gorgeous. Are you having a good night? Is there anything you'd like me to do?"

"I am dear, are you? Perhaps we could finish up here and feel up each others mane's in a less public place?"

His hoof stopped rubbing, allowing her to raise back up her head, "Is that cryptic for something else?"

"Oh, no darling! I mean, yes I would like that- but I mean-"

He grinned coyly, "See? It's easier than you think. How's the park sound?"

"That sounds divine."

"What side of Fluttershy's family were you on again? I apologize, its slipped my mind." she asked sitting on a swing.

"Hmm, well her mom is my aunt, so moms side." he replied from the one beside her, lightly pushing himself with a long leg. "Next time I think I'll wear something more comfortable, that way you can see what I casually wear. You know, I am curious, what kind of clothes does a famous fashionista like you wear when you're just at home?"

"Nothing exiting. Light dresses, my pink robe, comfy pajamas, that sort of thing."

A smile melted across his face, sinking into his soft eyes. "Me too- except for dresses. I work from home as well so I don't go out much. This is my one hitting the town outfit."

Rarity clutched her heart, "Just one! Darling, met up with the right pony. Though...a pajama date does sound quite nice.
What is your vocation?"

"Well, I study plants and how they grow in different environments and conditions, and how they affect us and other creatures. My name probably gave that away though. My research went into some of the Canterlot archives actually, but that's the most impressive thing I've done. I used to really be into cooking though. But I don't blame ponies for not trusting a pony named WolfBane to handle their five cheese ricotta and spring salad."

This caused her to laugh more than it should have, "Sorry, I can feel the resentment radiating off that. So...I am curious, what is your cutie mark? I know that's a very personal question, and I don't mean to impose and you don't have to show me, but what did you get it in? What's the story behind it?"

He chuckled, "That can be a story for another day as it is getting quite late. But it's a wolf head surrounded by purple monkshood- or, wolfsbane. Luckily it corresponds with what I am doing now. What's yours?"

"Three blue diamonds," she smile, "It does correlate with my dressmaking thankfully. Though I do enjoy the hunt for them."

His wings shyly fluttered a little against his back. "That's...wow, I actually do too. I am really happy that we were able to meet up, and I hope it won't be the last. Perhaps we could go to the Gem Collectory in pajamas up in Canterlot next time? I've seldom seen another pony there, so we could feel up each others manes 'n tails in peace."

"Oh? You want to feel up my tail now? Isn't that a fifth date kind of thing?"

"Oh, um, sorry, I-I,"

"You may feel my tail next time, granted I get to feel yours."

"You're too good at this, you know? Would you like me to walk you home?"

"That's very kind of you, but you don't have to. It's not far from here actually. I could accompany you home however, f you'd like."

He pinned his ears back, "It is pretty far from here, and-"

"I really don't mind."

"It's a Cloudemonium, it the sky. Lower than most, and it's tethered but I wouldn't want to tire you out any more. And you'd only see the bottom, nothing exciting. And most ponies are in bed around this time- I forget not everypony wakes up in the afternoon."

She just smirked at him, "I do that too. And tonight we can walk to my house, next time we'll go to yours."

"Sounds like a deal. When's the next day you're free?"

Spa Seed

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Rarity massaged her marehood atop her bed, sighing as nothing seemed to sooth it. A part of her had hoped WolfBane would have come inside and taken her immediately. Instead she had dreamed about him- but not in the normal way she would with males as handsome as he.

In fact, some of it was just reminiscing how nice it felt to touch his hair, hear his soft, firm voice and to have common food tastes and interests. She had attempted to picture his cutie mark and what he would look like without clothes, which only made her chest and vagina ache even more.

He did give her directions to his address, in case she ever needed anything. "Though since you and your friends have saved Equestria so many times, I'm not sure what use I'd be. Unless you need someone to eat loaded nachos with olives and jalapenos in it."

Shaking her head she got up, knowing there was work to be done and she had to make it to the spa today with AppleJack. She couldn't remember the last time this had happened, never being able to remember a time the farm pony offered. Today was going to be a fantastic day, and she could feel it.

Squinting at two rolls of fabric, one teal and the other a subtle sea foam, she jumped when something rubbed against her leg. Pleasantly surprised to find Topaz affectionately rubbing his cheeks around her ankles. His slim body snaking around, wiggling his behind in anticipation to jump up onto the table in front of her. Chuckling, she moved scissors and her sketch book, clearing a smooth landing for him.

"Oh Topaz, you've never come to visit me like this! Normally you're too busy playing with Opal!"

The tabby purred and jumped back down, walking back to the hallway.

"Well that was nice while it lasted."

Topaz turned back into the room, letting out his first, "Brrmow!"

"Your first meow!" she gasped, leaning down to pet him, to which he flinched. "Alright, what is up?"

"Brremow." he rumbled in frustration, turning back around and looking behind back at her.

"You want me to follow you?" she said, while already following him. " If it'll gain your trust."

She abandoned the two rolls and paced after him. Walking through the house, in settled in her bones just how quiet things had gotten in the previous years. Shocked looking down to see a little dust puffing from her own carpets.

"I've really let myself and the house go, haven't I?"

Topaz stopped before the laundry room, nervously looking up at her. Peering in, Rarity at first couldn't find anything wrong. Walking inside and staring back at him. "Well, we made it."

"Rrrow." he said, slinking over to the corner.

Rarity's veins turned to frost when she realized why he summoned her here. Curling up in the corner was a ball of white fur, breathing shallowly. Swallowing a shriek, she pounded her hooves against the floor, shaking lightly.

"Opal?! Dear, what's wrong?" she asked, pupils the size of pinpricks. Examining her over she couldn't find anything immediately amiss. "I'll be right back, precious." she cried, tears in her eyes and she charged through the house.

"Sweetie? Sweetie?! Sweetie Bell!?!"

The curly maned unicorn was running from her room to meet her, "Yes, Rarity!?"

"Go retreive Fluttershy, now! I fear Opal may be passing!"

"I'm on it!" her features grim but focused, rocketing out of the Boutique and towards the pegasi's house.

"Ya' sure she's okay?" AppleJack asked through the steam, "I understand if you'd wanna be home right now."

"Fluttershy says she will be alright. She is an older cat now, so I must expect these things. Must have ate and caught something, all she has is a fever. After vomiting she began to move around, and with some antibiotics her breathing returned to normal and she got some water. Fluttershy says it is paramount she rests and has some quiet, so being here is actually ideal. Seeing as her bed's in my room and I was planning on sewing today."

"Well keep me posted and let me know if there's anything I can do."

"Oh AppleJack, you are a true friend."

The orange pony leaned against the wall and breathed in some of the hot air. "It's honestly no problem at'll. I know how painful it is to lose a pet you've had for years. Big Mac still thinks we should get a new dog, but it just wouldn't be the same. You can't just replace family."

"I agree," sniffled Rarity, "Though Topaz would keep me company. I still don't know if he even likes me."

"Of course he does Rare, he still is learning his new home's all."

"I do hope so."

"How'd last night go by the way?"

Rarity's pink heat blush deepened, "Oh, it went pretty well. He is tremendously charming. Though I get confused vibes off of him. I'm not sure if he's really interested or just playing out a past fantasy. Or if he's interested in...that way. AppleJack, can I ask you another personal question?"

"Shoot."

"Do you ever hurt down there? Like...you've been starved for so long it gets all puffy in protest?"

Even through the steam she could see this comment made AppleJack light up red, "Rarity! That's too- Yeah... I do actually. Aloe Vera doesn't even help anymore. And well, now I get to ask you a question. How...do you deal with it by chance?"

"Deal with it?" Rarity asked, dazed a little. She knew there were ways, but she wound up getting insecure and feeling silly anytime she tried. "I uhm...Just hurt. It's difficult for me to deal with it without feeling bad afterwards."

The two were silent for a few moments. "I have that same problem. And I'm not exactly a pony others notice, so it gets even more difficult to cope. Honestly, I get pretty depressed sometimes. Wondering if there is something wrong with me and if there is a reason others have been avoiding me in all ways. I can't blame 'em. I'd ignore someone as hideous and mean spirited as me too."

Rarity snickered, "AppleJack, you are beautiful and I haven't been avoiding you. In fact, you're the only friend I've been going out of my way to visit. Don't belittle yourself darling, you know it not good for you or anypony."

AppleJack's stunning eyes looked at her, pools of molten emeralds. Before she could react, the earth pony gingerly laid a hoof behind her, pulling her closer by the buttocks and kissed her. Rarity's ears pinned back in shock at first, before melting down, her eyes fluttering as she allowed her soft lips to nibble hers. Pulling the farm pony closer herself, and pushing against her passionately. Every nerve in her body tingling, the weight in her gut lifting.

The two took a few deep breathes, looking each other softly in the eyes. AppleJack trembled in her hooves, pupils now large and full of lust; just like the unicorn in hers. Rarity used her other hoof to rub the orange mares ass as she pressed against her heavenly lips against hers, moaning and shivering. She softly rubbed her companions bottom lip with her tongue, AppleJack soon reflecting this.

Rarity's vagina felt like burning bricks as the earth pony thrust her tongue in her mouth, gently massaging hers. She let out a whiny and moan, feeling heavy she rested her head on the wall. AppleJack moaned as well, gasping as Rarity's hoof traveled further, rubbing where her marehood was behind the towel.

"Nhhmm ahh!" the farm pony groaned. Sighing as the white hoof applied pressure, circling in different directions. Rarity sympathetically nuzzled herself against her, pushing more forcefully; her vagina way easily just as, if not more puffy than hers, she could almost feel the pleasure dripping through her friend from relief.

Both took another moment to breath, sweat matting them. "I'm overheating." AppleJack panted. "Say we take this back to the barn? If I'm trusting anypony to touch me in ways that make my worries fade away, it's you."

Rarity excitedly bolted up, giggly breathing, "We better get moving then! I don't know if I can wait until the barn, you're just too delicious. Thank you AppleJack."

"No, thank you. You've no idea how many years I've been wanting to do that. I've gotta few things that could kick it up a notch back home."

"Well, here it is." AppleJack announced nervously, "It's been a while since you've been here. And I wouldn't have it under any other circumstances."

The mare's room still kept its integral look of all those years ago, save a new new trophies, quilts and gifts from her friends. Rarity smiled seeing the green-blue puppy she gave to her last Summer Sun Celebration on her bed. Strutting in, the unicorn marveled around, climbing onto the bed.

"It's amazing AppleJack." she sighed, "Just like your touch."

Her companion blushed, "Oh Rarity, you don't have to say that."

"But I do, as I want you to touch me more." she said, with sultry eyes.

AppleJack smirked, "Alright, just give me a mo'. Would you close the curtains and make sure the doors locked while I get ready?"

"No problem." she sang, bouncing over to the door and locking it, closing the curtains with her magic.

"Now close your eyes and get comfy on the bed."

Rarity giggled, hunkering herself down, nesting her head between pillows. They housed the same scent of her friend- hay, apple juice and cut grass, some of her favorite things. Her marehood becoming red hot as she felt AppleJack press both hooves around her, grabbing the waist of her yoga pants with her teeth and gently pulling. Caressing her legs until the pants laid on the floor.

"May I open my-"

"Shhh." she whispered, shimming the panties off next. "Just relax."

AppleJack pried opened the unicorns thighs, unveiling her steaming, lavender marehood. Planting her hooves bottom her smooth buttocks, squishing them around, observing her hips. "Your cutie mark is gorgeous Rarity," she groaned. "Just like you."

With that Rarity felt the warmth of a muzzle press against her vagina. She sharply inhaled as the mare began to suckle on her, stroking her tongue in places that ached the most. Rarity raised her tail as high as she could, welcoming her in any way she could. Blue sparks sizzling at the tip of her horn as the tongue plunged into her, flicking against swollen walls.

Rarity began to sweat as she did in the sauna, blush searing her face as her eyes fluttered. The farm pony altering between sucks and plunging continued rubbing her ass, causing tremors to jolt up her spine, incapacitating her as she laid twitching and moaning. Her juices mingling with spit drizzling onto the bed, not realizing she herself began to drool.

The earth pony gasped for air upon emerging. Muzzle soaked and dripping. "Y-Ya'll doing okay?"

Rarity panted, vigorously nodding. "That was phenomenal AppleJack, you are a talent."

The orange mare giggled, shrugging, "Well I do try. Now I might need your help with this one, since I know this is what we've been missing the most. Hold still for now though."

"Hehe, yes ma'm."

Rarity trembled with excitement as she felt her companions body climb up beside her. Ears perking up when she heard squelching and grunting. Confused she peers over her shoulder, eyes widening at what she saw. AppleJack sat there, red plaid shirt unbuttoned and pantsless, legs spread wide as she attempted to fit in a sparkly, cobalt dildo into her aggressively stretching amber marehood; which was much thicker than her own, the willowy frills of her flesh a brighter marigold.

The farm pony jumped, ears pinned back when she realized she had been watched. Blushing and looking down guiltily. The unicorn smiled, slithering over and lowering her head and licking the irritated opening to ease in the faux member, massaging the clitoris with a hoof.

"Gah!" AppleJack gasped, wincing at first before her legs began to shake, spreading them as wide as the could go- causing the dildo to accidentally pop out. Tiny jets of cum escaping the orange mare. "I'm sorry, even just bein' touched by somepony like that sends me over. It's been so long."

Rarity smiled, plucking up the double-sided member in her mouth, nibbling on the tip. Masterfully working it back into her friend. AppleJack's face a deep red-rose watching her friends head bob around, hair framed perfectly around her face.

"I-I don't know if it can fit Rare! It'll I don't know, - I feel like I'm already goin' to-GAHHH!!!"

Rarity shoved the dildo more forcefully, finally getting it to stick. It shook as it protruded from her, the mare gasping and panting, throwing her head back and clenching her teeth. Breathing hotly, she scrunched up her muzzle, letting a pleasured moan escape.

Rarity nuzzled against her, kissing her forehead before laying on her back, spreading her legs apart as well. Lowering herself on the opposing end, AppleJack steadying it with her hooves. Grounding her front legs behind her, quaking a little with anticipation.

The tip was hot from her mouth, rubbing gently against her before sliding in. Rarity scrunching her own muzzle at it was thrust deeper, the shaft a sharp, stinging cold.Thrashing her head to the sides as it tore through her sore, collapsed walls, comforted seeing her companion doing the same. A chorus of squelches against rubber seasoned the steamy air.

The orange mare pushed herself with closer, until both their asses squashed together, causing both to cry out as it scraped against both of their limits. "Sorry! Sorry! My bad!" she whined, retreating back.

"Gentler, please!" sobbed the unicorn. "We are both tender right now!"

"I know that! What if I do this?" the earth pony softly bounced her hips. The member sliding back and forth a gently into them, only going going in about an inch over the tip.

"Mmmhnn!" Rarity moaned, chewing on her bottom lip and she reflected this. "G-bwaahh, ahhh, ahh!" the member sliding in a few more inches, gently brushing inside her.

"Mnmn ahh-huh, aah! Ahh-huh!!" AppleJack cried as Rarity wiggled her hips around, thrusting in deeper and harder into her. Rarity constricted the member inside of her, using all her back muscles as she closed the distance between them, creating a tremendous smack!

"MNH-AHHH! Huh-ahhhh!! Rarity I-I, Mhhnn, ahhh!" she struggled, legs wildly flailing as her mouth trembled with shock. "Y-you said ge-gentle!"

Rarity didn't reply however, instead throwing her head back and continuing, perhaps a little softer, but much faster. Causing AppleJack to hold onto her bed posts so she wouldn't fall off. The unicorns back and leg muscles rippling furiously, tongue lolling out of her mouth slightly as the dildo soothed all of her pounding aches and pains. Her nerves tingled with warmth and longing, spasms unfurling as she rocked the both of them back and forth.

"R-Ra-Rariteh- Ahhh Ahhh! For fucks- I-I can't cum anymore Rare! Pl-lease! You're hurtin' me!"

Rarity's ears pinned up, shook back to reality as she slowed herself, until finally stopping. Looking at her friend, she was immediately stung with guilt. Tears had been streaming down the mares face, her muzzle still shaking. Her mane disheveled- looking like a tornado whipped through it.

And most of all, her marehood. Once brilliant amber, now a scorching vermilion. Droplets on blood could be found swimming in cum and on the shaft.Rarity abruptly plucked it out of both of them, at loss for words.

The orange mare collapsed onto the bed, trembling and sobbing. "I tried to tell you three times, but you just got savage."

"A-AppleJack I-I'm so sorry. Wha-What can I do?" she gasped, feeling herself beside to shake with shock.

"I just- I wanna be alone for a while."

"A-AppleJack. Should I come back in an h-"

"Rarity, not to be rude but...I really need some space right now. For a couple of days. I need to think. I'm sorry Rare. This wasn' ever goin' to work. We were both lonely and-" she dissolved into tears, unable to form words anymore."

Still trembling, Rarity put back on her clothes, exiting the room. Her whole body alight with shame, marehood still hammering. Wincing at the blinding sunlight of late afternoon. Numbly staring out at the farm, PonyVille, and her house.

"Could this day get any worse? I am the most awful mare in Equestria..."

Opening the door to the Boutique, she recoiled in shock as an explosion of confetti blew back her mane. Followed by a shrill, "SURPRISE!"

Tea Served With Trauma

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"What in the name of Celestia?! Pinkie!!!" Rarity snarled, "I've had a rough enough day as it! I don't need any more trite excuses you call for celebrating! I am not in the mood for your constant trivialities and...!"

The pink mare flinched, recoiling in fear, stunned into silence. Looking inside she was shocked to see Fluttershy and Twilight looking back, dumbfounded at her. Taking a deep breath, she hotly exhaled. "Look, Pinkie, I am so sorry I-"

The curly haired mare only pushed her canon past her. Not looking her in the eye as she trotted off. "Wait! Pinkie! Please don't I'm-"

"Sorry doesn't make it okay, Rarity." Fluttershy spat, pushing her aside as she stepped out of the doorway, "I don't really care if you've had a bad day. You are in control of yourself, nopony else."

"But I-"

"Enough!" Twilight screamed, levitating them both inside and silencing them with her magic. "Look, it's been stressful for all of us. Rainbow Dash is still flying all over town looking for you. Where have you been? I thought you and AppleJack went to the spa?"

Setting them down they both gasped for air, Rarity sighing. "Me and AppleJack...had a falling out. We went back to the barn to...prepare for the Reunion some more. And... it's all my fault." she trembled, bulbous tears escaping her.

"Oh Rarity, even though I'm mad at you, seeing you cry makes me wanna cry." Fluttershy hiccuped, misty eyed. "What happened? That is awful. I am sorry, I thought it was something, well, trivial. I guess it is easy to be accidentally callous."

"Is there anything we can do?" Twilight asked softly.

"Please, go get Pinkie before I ruin that too!" she solemnly seethed, "I've already done enough damage today!"

Twilight nodded at the teary eyed Fluttersay, who trotted out the door after their friend. Rarity's cheeks were already raw from crying on her walk, the extra tears leaving burning trails as her mascara ran. Sniffling she turned away from her, attempting to walk away.

"Now, tell me what happened Rarity. No more fooling around."

"Twilight, I just...I can't, I'm not ready."

"Let me put it this way," Twilight sighed, horn lighting up again. She cast an image on the wall beside them of the Elements. "See these? I must remind you that you and AppleJack are a part of the most powerful weapon in Equestria, and it relies on your friendship. All the Elements of Harmony must be, well, harmonious to work, simple as that.. With Equestria suffering the recent disaster, we are more vulnerable than I'd like to admit."

"I just don't think I'm cut out to be an Element Twi, somepony else should take my place."

Twilight stared devoid of emotion at her. "Rarity, you know they don't work like that. They tie together groups. Without you and AppleJack, Equestria could be in danger. So I need you to tell me what's wrong because that's the only way we can come up with a solution."

Rarity still sat in silence. Causing the alicorn to groan. "Here, I'll demonstrate my hypothesis on what happens if the Elements detect disharmony between any number of its users, and what happens when too few of us try to use it."

The image on the wall starkly flickered. "Scenario One." Twilight airily explained, motioning for them both to sit.

Images of all six of them began to unfold inside a castle, charging forward and wearing their respective Elements. Ahead of them a large orb of dark energy began to grow larger. Flashing red and blue, and green against the darkness. The six of them stopped in front of it, all with determined scowls.

"You're not winning this time Shadow!" Rarity saw herself growl. "And we will not stand to see you consume Discord!"

"With the power of the Elements, we can save him girls!" Twilight announced, mane fluttering heroically behind her. "Nothing can stop us if we all work together. Friends make mistakes sometimes, but we always come back for each other and make it right!" The real Twilight smirking at this.

All of their necklaces began to flash- sending waves of their respective colors that were absorbed into the others. They all began to rise, eyes completely white. Until Rarity's purple light pinged off of AppleJack's, causing an unstable wave of power to go flying from them, disintegrating a nearby pillar.

"Wahhh! What was that!?" Twilight yelled as them were all thrown to the hard ground, sharp debris cutting into them.

AppleJack's orange from her Element pinged off of Rarity's, causing the ground beneath them to quake.

"Girls! Grab anypony who can't fly and take off!" screamed Twilight.

The ground crumbled and cracked where they had stood, a small fissure opening. Fluttershy unable to hold Rarity, who fell from her grip downwards, shrieking. The last image was of a 50 foot tall Discord, skeletal structures of other animals protruding from his gaunt, black flesh. All releasing a cacophony of shrill, guttural roars, before fading to black.

Rarity's ears pinned back, disturbed by witnessing her own death and seeing such a horrifying re-imagining of one of their friend.

"And that's the best case scenario." Twilight said, unfazed. Rarity's mouth wide open. "Now onto the next, shall we?"

The light flickered once more. Painting a moving picture of her friends crouching behind collapsed crystal statue of Celestia. Twilight holding up her hooves and whispering. "Here's the plan. "We're going to-"

Before she could finish, a searing wall of blue energy went right through her. Eviscerating everything in it's path, leaving no trace of their friend. All of them recoiled and screamed. "No!" Wall Rarity stated, "We will not cower and let her win! Light 'em up girls!"

The six of them stomped the ground, before jumping onto the statue, Elements already shining bright. The same light that swirled around each of them, each connecting to each other. Ahead of them, Starlight Glimmer began to light up her horn, outstretching the alicorn wings on her back as her mane waved with what looked like nebula's bursting into bloom, eyes replaced with spheres of violet electricity.

They remained floating there, as another wall disintegrated everything in its path. Pinkie Pie began to thrash wildly, her Element glowing blue and then magenta before those same colors of crystals began jutting from her body, spilling blood onto Rarity's white coat below her. She writhed and shreiked in agony before them, crumbling before the energy wiped them from existence. The image went black again.

The real Rarity's eyes were still glued to the wall. Unable to look away or get the images out of her mind. She wondered how Twilight could function so easily with these in her mind.

"You understand?"

Rarity nodded.

"I'm sorry, I only recently learned this. Studying the tree after all these years. It's much more...unstable than we thought. I was going to use the spell that made us look like we were living through it, but this uses less energy and proves my point."

"Why were you in my house already though, Twilight?" she asked coolly, eyes still focused.

She giggled, "Well, it turns out Opal wasn't sick."

Rarity aggressively snarled, "Of course she was! I had Fluttershy come over and everything!"

"Though Fluttershy does have a talent in taking care of animals, you must remember she isn't a licensed vet."

"I know that! What happened then? How can you throw up and not be-oh. Wait, but how?!"

"I don't know. Somehow she managed to in her old age."

"I thought she was just getting fat. But I didn't notice any teets."

"She has 'em, they are just smaller than usual, and she didn't have many. So she only needs to produce a little milk.

"Where is she now?" she asked, heart heavy.

"In your room. Will you be okay Rarity? Or would you like us to wait down here for you?"

"I'll be along dear, I would just like to have a moment."

Rarity excitedly ran upstairs, smiling all the way. Opening her bedroom door, Topaz greeted her. "Naughty thing you. They told me you were neutered."

She softly walked over to the other side of the bed. Peeking to observed Opal sleeping on her side, with two kittens attached to her two exposed nipples. One a striking ginger like his father, and the other a light butterscotch.

"Good job, Mama Opal." she crooned. Causing a symphony of purrs between her and Topaz, who nuzzled down beside her.

Crawling into bed, she cocooned herself under the covers. Unable to face her friends downstairs a second time. Hoping that if they checked on her, they would find her asleep and let her be. Wanting nothing more than to just brood and feel alone again right now.

Ghastly images of AppleJack's destroyed marehood and the tears streaming down her face riveted through her mind. She began to tremble again, biting her cheek to fight off the hot tears streaming down her pillow. Perhaps the worst of all was knowing AppleJack was laying back there. No friends checking up on her. Just alone, in pain physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Rarity's whole lower body felt like searing lead weighed it down as she got up. Wincing as she planted an ankle on the floor, only for it to sting. Groaning, she massaged her sore neck, falling back down into the pillows.

"How am I going to get any work done today?" she sighed. "If sleep didn't heal it, then it's only going to get worse."

Shutting her eyes tightly, she flung herself from the bed and onto the floor. Immediately it felt like pillars of glass splinters shot through her veins, causing her to gasp. She stood there for a few moments, completely still before the pain ebbed away to dull bursts.

"Oooh ahhack." she hissed with each hoof fall, slowly pacing herself to the door. Trekking down the stairs like walking through burning nails, unable to help when she recoiled from attempting to move too fast. Smiling when she heard bustling of pans, plates and silverware

"Sweetie?" she called, "I seem to have procured an injury yesterday, I may need your help today."

Stepping into the kitchen, she was surprised to see Apple Bloom at the table, a succulent pancake doused in strawberry jam in front of her. Today she was wearing a teal cowboy hat and blue flannel shirt, a stylish upgrade from the norm. Sweetie Bell was still at the stove, flipping pancakes carefully with a spatula.

"Oh, morning Rarity!" Apple Bloom greeted sheepishly, "I hope was it was okay to come over on short notice. I can help out if-."

Sweetie Bell and Rarity exchanged understanding gazes. "Oh darling, while that is ever so kind and thoughtful of you, I think I'll be okay. Nothing a wrap-around bandage won't fix! You two have fun now."

"But Rarity, are you sure?" Sweetie asked with genuine concern. "I could always-"

"If I wasn't I wouldn't have said so." she attempted warmly.

"Well, I did make you some pancakes, if you'd like and if it'd help." her little sister shyly grinned, levitating a stack of chocolate chip and blueberry filled ones. "And Opal's doing great this morning. Fluttershy left some extra milk in the fridge if we needed it. Also, I tried putting nutmeg into these to spice 'em up, though I'm not sure how they've turned out yet."

"They're pretty amazin'!" Apple Bloom said with a mouthful, "Sweetie sure does have a talent for it."

Those words stung at her, but she didn't show it. "Why yes. And thank you for checking on her." She awkwardly sat doing on a chair, eye twitching as her pajama pants met with the cool of the cushion. "Apple Bloom, if you wouldn't mind my asking, how's AppleJack been?"

The earth pony raised an eyebrow at her, "Didn't you just see her yesterday?"

"Well, yes but... me and her had a...falling out of sorts and I just wanted to make sure she's okay."

The two mares looked back at her empathetically, Sweetie hurrying over with the pancakes and syrup.

"Well...that would explain why she hasn't come out of her room." Apple Bloom murmured, "Lands-Sake, what happened between you two? She doesn't think we can hear, but to be honest, she's been cryin' up a storm. Doesn't want anypony to come in either."

Rairty's veins returned to a bitter slush, the coldness swelling in her heart until she was sure it would burst. "I'd rather not say, but could you please make sure to check on her after today? I do worry about her."

"Was that injury caused by my sister?" Apple Bloom asked, fear in her eyes.

"Oh no no no, I mean- I obtained it when walking back." she lied. "I'm afraid I may have hurt her though, I never meant to."

"I am sorry Rarity, that is awful." her sister cooed, pouring glasses of orange juice.

"Oh please, don't feel sorry for me, really." she sighed, nibbling a decadent bite of a pancake.

"But you didn't mean to hurt her, and you have the decency to feel bad about it." Apple Bloom said boldly, "We all can accidentally hurt eachother sometimes.

Sweetie Bell nodded, smiling at the mare. "Well said. We'll make sure to look into how she's doing once we go over to the farm. The treehouse is almost complete."

"Oh? Is Spike still assisting?"

"Spike? Oh, nah. He's too busy helping Twilight now."

"Besides, he doesn't really seem to know how to properly redo foundation for windows. Caused me more work." Apple Bloom grumbled.

"Speaking of which, they said they'd be stopping by here today. To check on you." Sweetie mentioned off hand, "Twilight's really worried about both of you."

"She tried to stop by our place last night, but her and AppleJack got into another fight it sounded like."

"Poor AppleJack." Rarity hiccuped, valiantly fighting off tears attempting to spring from her face.

"It's okay Rarity, please don't hold it in." Apple Bloom whispered, laying a gentle hoof on her back. The unicorn allowing herself to wrack with sobs once more.

Cleaning up the kitchen as best she could with her magic, she rested alone at the table. Pondering which of her friends would arrive first. She groaned as she levitated a full teapot onto the kettle. Yawning as the afternoon sun leaked into through the windows. Birds chirped outside and there wasn't a cloud in the sky.

"Beautiful day." she said, stretching the least achy parts of her. "I do hope Fluttershy brings some of those cucumber sandwiches."

Having manged to bring her sketch pad to the table, she went to work. Once Sweetie returned they would moved the good sewing machines from her room and set them up in her main work station. Becoming so focused she almost missed the knock at the door, followed by the patter of hoof and claw steps.

She clenched her thighs as her marehood began to throb once more. Breathing in deeply, gathering her composure and working up a smile to great them. To her surprise, they had all arrived at the same time- along with Pinkie Pie! The mares arrived in the room first, Pinkie walking with a demur gate. All wearing casual tees and pants- except for Fluttershy, who, like her was still in pajamas.

"Oh. I uhm, I am really sorry for-" Rarity began, cut off by a constrictive hug.

"It's okay, I forgive you. I understand getting blasted with confetti after a bad day probably didn't feel so good."

The unicorn wrapped her hooves around the pink pony, burying her muzzle in her hair. "Your celebrations aren't trivial."

"Thank you, and I hope not! I brought some, "Wow What-Uh Surprise Lemon Pie Kittens That'll Make you Smitten- B-Bars. Sorry, that's not my best one."

Rarity chuckled. "It's the thought and effort that count. And they do sound scrumptious." A warm grin escaping her when Pinkie pulled them out of her saddle bag. The powdery white on top was made to look like Opal's fur, little black icing dots for her eyes and whiskers and purple candy bows caused her to giggle.

"Oh Pinkie, those are lovely," Fluttershy fawned, "Hehe, but they'll have to compete with my cucumber sandwiches!"

"And me and Spike brought spicy cauliflower bites," Twilight blushed, pulling a tray of orange tinted vegetables from her bag, "I wasn't exactly sure what the theme was."

Rarity couldn't help by smile further, "Thank you girls, this means more to me than you could ever know."

Another knock sounded at the door. Followed by Rainbow charging through and towards their voices, panting with an armful of bags that spelled like they were filled with hay burgers and fries. "Sorry, I tried to make tea cakes, but well...long sorry short I think my ovens broken for the time being. I hope this'll do."

Rarity gushed at the sight of her friends ambling around her house. Setting up the food and sitting down at the table, chuckling and making light conversation about each others items.

"I do apologize, I only had time to prepare plain old ginseng tea." Rarity said bashfully.

"Um, this is a tea party, right? I think you nailed the most critical part Rare." the rainbow haired pegasi blurted, "Besides, you make the best tea out of all of us. No offense Fluttershy."

Fluttershy seared holes into the back of her friends head until she giggled, "Perhaps, but I am still the reining champ of best Hearth's Warming Coco."

"Can't argue with that," Twilight shrugged.

"I thought I heard Spike come in with you?" Rarity asked curiously, levitating down cups and pouring the steaming liquid into them.

"He couldn't help but go and check out the kittens. He's got a soft spot for cute things like that." Twilight responded, levitating the cups over to them.

Rarity felt a strong tug on her marehood realizing this meant the drake was in her room. Alone. A streaming pool began to quiver inside her pants.

"Ah yes, I think we all do, deep down. I've got to use the little fillies room, I'll be right back."

Ignoring the searing pain in her muscles, she briskly jogged back upstairs. Staring down at her clothes and groaning, doing what she could with her magic to pull it in complementary ways that extenuated her curves. Inhaling a strong breath before creeping into her room.

She had to bite down hard on her lip at the sight that awaited her as to not moan. The dragon was still unaware she entered, facing the opposite direction. Resting on his legs, he let his tail fall onto the floor, curving in such a way she could see the chiseled outline of his buttocks and beginning of his manhood under his black shorts.

Quietly as she could, she began to walk in, closing the door behind her. To which his long ears perked up to, turning his head around to look her in the eyes. Shyly pulling his tail up to cover himself.

"S-sorry. I should've asked if it was okay to come up."

"Shh, don't apologize dear. You are always welcome up here." she cooed.

Blushing he smiled, "Thanks Rare. They're so cute. Fluttershy says it was one of the tougher labors she's seen, but she had a strong will to pull through."

"Indeed." Rarity said, calculating the best way to crawl beside him without shocking him. "Let me just sit beside you, if you wouldn't mind."

"Oh, sorry. Would you like me to-"

"No, please, please stay." she purred, "It just-" she had no idea where she was going with that, pinning her ears back and trying to form words.

"Been hard recently?" Spike finished softly, "I heard that you and AppleJack had a fight- nopony's told me about what. Twilight says it's not my business to know that kind of thing."

Rarity froze halfway up. Did AppleJack reveal everything?

"Hey Rare, what's wrong? I'm sorry, I shouldn't have brought it up like she said."

"Don't be sorry dear, you were only trying to show awareness. I erm, could use help up though. I hurt my ankles yesterday."

"O-Oh, of course." the drake breathed, slithering his form around to help pull her up by her front legs. "Are you okay? What can I help you with today? Did she do this?"

"No no, it happened on the walk back. But um...well, if you could just...wrap an arm around me, that would help." she said, shame heavy in her tone.

"Oh Rarity, don't be embarrassed to ask for a hug from me." he grinned, "You deserve one from what it sounds like."

"What does it-"

She was immediately paralyzed by a broad arm pulling her closer to him, resting perfectly against her torso. She submitted control over what position she was originally going to lay in as his body softly touched against her, pushing herself closer. Trembling as she met with the hardness of his scales under his t-shirt, her body barely ending at his mid-stomach. His long neck gingerly curled around her head, eyes fluttering as she felt his warm breath dance across her hair.

"Sq-squeeze me, please." she moaned brittly, "I-I-"

"Oh Rarity, you're shaking like a leaf. It's okay, you can cry. You're safe with me."

Rarity's marehood felt like a boiling volcano, pounding harder than it had in years. She could feel her tail twitch, curling it so it would subtlety pool against his manhood.

"I can feel a muscle spasming," Spike cooed, "Poor Rarity, we'll have to get the checked out."

"Mnh, ooh, yes," she drooled, thrusting her throbbing marehood further onto him. "This makes it feel a lot better though."

"Oh? Well I'm glad. Are you hurt anywhere else?"

"Hm? Oh, m-my stomach's been acting up too, i-if you wouldn't mind rub-"

The dragon swirled a clawed hand across her belly, pressing lightly. "Am I getting it?"

"Oh, um, a little lower." she squeaked, feeling her juices begin to seep through the confinements of her clothes.

She immediately pulled a hoof up to her mouth to bite down onto as he rubbed above her teet, unknowing that with the circling motion of his hand he was touching the top of it.

"Gosh, you're so tense," the dragon said sympathetically. "Perhaps you should take another spa day. Relax in the steam and bathe in the mud."

"Mnnh, aaah," she moaned, unable to form words she nodded.

"Oh Rarity, I can hear the sadness in your voice, you don't have to speak, sounds like you're about to cry."

"Mnnh, thank you, Spikey Wikey."

Rarity felt her tail shift and his penis stiffened. "I-I have to go use the little dragon's room," he blushed, slowly raising up.

The unicorn looked up at the drake with sultry eyes, his shifting causing his stomach to push against her ass, squishing it firmly. Rarity clenched her thighs, quivering as she sucked in air through her teeth.

"Sorry!" he said, flinching, now off the bed. "I'll met you downstairs?" he inquired.

She nodded, after he exited the door, she shirked into her pillow as a tsunami of molten cum soaked her marehood and legs. Raising her head, gasping she rubbed herself. Trying to calm herself down as she levitated a white dress with red flowers over. Quickly pulling off her pajamas and tugging it on. She plucked out a new pair of panties and glided them up. Attempting to do up her hair and make the time she spent up here seem less suspicious.

Trotting back down, her friends were laughing among themselves. Twilight warmly greeting her with an smile. "The teas just about cool now."

"I dunno, mine's still pretty hot." Rainbow complained.

"That's the point of tea." Fluttershy snickered.

"Looks like you're the only one in pajamas now," Twilight teased the yellow pegasi beside her.

"Rarity! That dress looks aaamazing!" Pinkie belted.

"Thank you Ms. Pie. Now lets sample some of this food!" Rarity grinned, though clearly they had already begun to dig in without her.

"Spike's been up there for a while." Twilight said suspiciously, "Maybe I should-"

"He's in the bathroom darling. And from the sound of it you don't want to go up there." she covered. "H-He was up there for most of the time I was. Poor thing."

Twilight chuckled. "Thanks for telling me. I'll make sure to add something to help things go down easier tonight in his dinner."

Spike joined them soon after, sitting behind Rarity and looking much more relaxed. Pinkie and Rainbow giggled, while Fluttershy and Twilight sneered at them.

"What?" Spike asked defensively.

"Nothing darling, just finishing up a joke."

The group fell into light hearted chatter. It was almost possible to assume there hadn't been any recent calamities with the way they spoke. All groaning when it was time to say goodbye and return to their busy lives.

Dusk had already fallen by the time Sweetie returned. Rarity enthusiastically met her sister at the door. After soaking in a hot bath after everypony left, she was feeling much better.

"So Sweetie, how'd it go?"

The curly maned unicorn blushed. "Oh stop it. And it went well. I helped her set up decorations around the farm for the Reunion. Looks like she may be taking over this year."

Rarity immediately raised an eyebrow. "Why's that?"

"Well, um, Big Mac's already done it a hoof full of time and...well."

"Out with it."

"AppleJack's fallen into a pretty deep depression. When we checked on her she said she didn't care about the Reunion at all anymore."

A searing jolt slammed through Rarity, nearly knocking her down. "W-what?"

"She's...not doing well. We told her you were sorry, but all she did was mutter that wasn't the point. None of us know how to help and she just gets so angry and scary now. Wants to do all of her farm work alone, doesn't want to talk about anything. And she says you're only one of many reasons why she's finally snapped, if that makes you feel better."

Rarity sighed. "It...doesn't. I have to do something."

Drake Sabitoire

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Rarity stared out at the night sky, the crescent moon glowing a soft blueish hue tonight. Groaning she looked down at her notebook.

Ways To Make Up For My Blunder

Create a new ensemble for her to wear to re-excite her for the Reunion

Bake her a chocolate cake-her favorite- that says sorry and throw her an appreciation party

Help her with her chores

Pay for a year pass at the spa and gift it to her

"Gooh! Why's this so hard!?" she whined, shoveling in some coconut mini donuts into her mouth as she rested her hooves onto the kitched table.

"Rarity, what're you still doing up?" Sweetie Bell asked, clad in purple pajamas. "And why are you yelling?"

"Sorry dear, it's just-"

Her sister glanced down at the page and back up to her. "Oh, I get it now. Would you like some help? Perhaps you could tell me what happened?"

Rarity stiffened, before sighing. "If I do, you can't tell anypony, alright?"

"Of course!" she piped up, levitating a donut her way as well.

"Now you must know I am not proud of this and it was wrong of me. But, well..." her eyes flitted to the side, "The um, when me and AppleJack were in the steam room we-"

Sweetie Bell's eyes widened with realization, though she said nothing.

"You get what I'm saying?"

She furrowed her eyebrows. "Yeah, you mean...?"

Rarity nodded "And well...I kind of...you see... I hurt her in an emotion and...intimate sense."

Her sisters eyes became static.

"And well... Oh Sweetie, always think through your relations before you go through with them! I believe she thought it was much more serious, and when she realized it wasn't- and she's so fragile emotionally- and...What have I done!?"

The two sat in silence, eating donuts and tapping their hooves on the table.

"Well," Sweetie said, clumsily breaking quiet, "At least I know the Apple Family seems to have a thing for unicorns. So my chances with Apple Bloom would be a lot better."

Rarity's face confoundedly twitched before she cracked a light smile. "I suppose that is the best take away you could receive. Please don't ask me for details, however if you ever need advice on how to be safe-"

Sweetie awkwardly rose from the table, "Dully noted. Though...I'm not sure I'll be needing it for mares."

"Oh Sweetie, what makes you say that?"

The unicorn grinned, "Because me and Spike are going on a date this weekend. Though that doesn't mean we're official-yet."

Rarity stared in astonishment as her sister left her alone once more. The silence deafening as a tidal wave of white noise filled her head.

Rarity charged forward, jealous fury weighing heavily in her chest. Looking through the hobby isle of the store, jaw clenched as nothing caught her fancy. The basket on her back containing a few balls of yarn that were on sale.

"I must find something to distract myself. Surely there's more to me than creating sketches and clothes that take my mind off things."

Anxiously she pulled down a book on potion making, biting her bottom lib as she rubbed behind her neck.

"Ah, what a, Rarity to met you here." she heard a hearty voice breath behind her.

Turning, her eyes met with Zecora, who met her gaze with a smile. She was wearing a dazzling purple dress with gold highlights. "I can see why, there is not much clarity where things are without a long leer."

"Oh? W-What brings you here?" she nervously grinned at the zebra. "My, I haven't seen you in a hot minute, how've you been?"

"I have been a little troubled, as my clientele recently has doubled. It would appear there is more to me than potions-" she saw the book the unicorn was levitating. "Though you sharing this interest, I hadn't the slightest notion."

"Oh, pphhf, I haven't even begun to dabble yet. "Thought it does look interesting."

"Hmm, I see. Then perhaps a novice as you would benefit from a mentor, I presume? Today has been a quiet day, and oddity for late June."

"Oh my, well I am quiet behind as is on my work," she hesitated, remembering where her mind would wander if she returned. "But perhaps it would benefit us both! I could do something to show my gratitude."

"That sounds pleasant, shall I meet you at my residence?"

Rarity gritted her teeth as she trekked into the EverFree. Dragon flies and nats invested the air space above her, creating a cacophony of buzzing in her ears. The forest floor was always damp with moist soil and moss, even when it hadn't rained recently, something she grimaced at with each step. Thankful she had chosen to wear her pink summer dress that shielded most of her body from insects, however her thighs were vulnerable as it ended there.

"Why is it always so dark here?" she gripped at the trees in the distance, "Honestly, I don't understand how anything can grow here- or who'd want to for that matter."

Her eyes lit up with gratefulness as she spotted the Shamare's hut. She broke into a gallop, ignoring the undignified squelches of the soaked ground underneath her. The further she advanced towards it, she noticed familiar masks that had been there since the first day she came here, but also some of different creatures. As well as shallow planters hanging from the windows bursting with silvery-blue bioluminescent plants with sharp leaves.

Surrounding the area of the hut were smaller plants of different sizes, colors and shapes. Ivy with purple highlights on its dark green leaves consumed the right side of the hut. From it flowers of every hue could be seen, the younger soft and light colored, but as they matured they darkened and revealed angular petals unfurling not unlike a rose.

"Oh my." she uttered to herself, taking it in as she knocked on the door. "Pity I didn't grab my sketch pad or a camera."

The door smoothly glided open, unleashing conflicting scents ranging from sweet, sour, and spicy. Through it all she could distinguish a few lavender and lily incenses attempting to provide some closure to the nostrils from the onslaught of stimuli. The Zebra had changed into a more traditional looking brown hooded shirt with dark gray pants, different colored stains apparent throughout it, some still sparkling.

"I am glad you could make it! Though are you sure that dress can take it?"

Rarity bashfully observed her ensemble, "Rookie mistake I suppose. If I could inquire of you have-"

The zebra had already offered her a crisp set of creamy brown robes, which she graciously accepted. Tying back her mane and tail before pulling it over and following her deeper into her house. Noticing a new basement door that had been installed towards the back.

"I do apologize, how've you been?" Zecora asked as she carried materials to a nearby empty table, "After we departed, I've been bothered that I hadn't inquired since then."

"That is quite alright," Rarity consoled, "And I've been... Well, would you like the honest answer or-"

"Why Rarity I am shocked, why would I desire anything but honesty? You know I forsake farcety."

Rarity frowned at first, ashamed that if anypony would be able to see right through her even if she lied, it was her. She then let out a comforted smile and nod. "I do. I suppose it is hard for me to honestly face what's been bothering me more than anything. I always like to think it is others who don't want to hear the truth, but perhaps I am more of my own problem than I realize."

Zecora gave her an approving grin, "Sometimes the hardest to face is yourself. Trying to hide problems away in mental shelves. Though it will do nothing but to make you cry, as you try to hide it behind boxes of reasons why."

Rarity felt her bones and muscles relax. "Well spoken. And if I am being crystal clear, I think my main problem is not that I am lonely like I thought, though it is still very much a reality. But rather knowing that in the end all the creatures we care for, and care for us will be hurt one day. And there's nothing we can do about that. Which is the real reason I think I've been avoiding new relationships of any kind, especially in a romantic sense. I just don't want to be hurt by any one, I know that is selfish, but sometimes I wonder if not being selfish sometimes is the least kind thing you can do to yourself and others. I've tended to hold onto the more idealized versions of others, though that's only ever crushed me. And I can still see that I do it sometimes."

"Hmm, sounds like to me you needed to get a lot of that out. It sounds like getting others to accept and be interested in you is not the problem, it is getting you to do that is what it's about."

Rarity titled her head and scrunched up her muzzle, then sighed, "As much as that makes me sad, I can see how that may be my reality. Sure I have confidence in myself in other areas. Though sometimes I have to wonder if I am really all that, you know? I am always complemented on my talents, appearance and generous and kind spirit, but I have to wonder if I am really worth all that praise?"

"I understand that feeling too. I think we tend to forget others have doubts in themselves, making our emotions feel taboo. And that can be a truly lonely feeling, like you are the only one hitting this self doubt ceiling. Staring down and thinking all of your friends and partners are grounded, though I think looking deeper, we can find those assumptions are unfounded."

"Would you mind if I came to visit more often Zecora? Honestly, I haven't felt this much relief and understanding in...I can't even fathom how long."

"It is no problem dear, now did you still want to learn about potion making while you're here?"

Rarity nodded, "I'll go and wash up my hooves before we begin then?"

Zecora reflected her nod, grinning and continuing to bring things over.

On her way she spotted a peculiar looking book, looking as though it were binned between two slabs of rock. "Mating Habits of The Dragon: Guide to Drake Courtship for Successful Egg Production- Volume I". Rarity blushed a little looking at the book, before feeling a cold stone drop in her gut.

"Rarity? Weren't you-" Zecora looked down where her sight was before, "Ahh..? What a peculiar thing for you to take interest in. I bought it from the DragonLand's to help a female dragon nearby who feels intimately remiss."

"Well, yes I-"

"Say no more my friend, I'll lend it to you if you like. Though I can't help but wonder, has this something to do with Spike?"

"Oh yes, well you see-"

"Ah, poor thing would need help. Here he has little variety for mates of his kind, perhaps you were looking to assist this whelp?"

"You could say that. Thank you Zecora, you really are a gem."

"Hmm, well to help you set this in motion, perhaps I could help you understand some things in this book instead of potions? There will always be another day you could come along for this."

Rarity vigorously nodded.

"And I still do have some spare supplies, though I can give you a guide where the rest lye."

"I am ever so grateful for your assistance Zecora. And I will make sure to come by the next time our schedules permit. My life is always full of unexpected adventures though, as an Element." she said the last part with a notable trace of disdain.

"Ah, though it is easy to become stressed, I hope you'll find solace soon and get some rest. When life throws you a hectic curve, we must do our best not to loose our nerve. Our existence is full of thrills, try not to get caught up in the scrapes and spills. Enjoy the chaos and ignore the strife- my motto for life."

Rarity waved Zecora goodbye as she trotted off, bags heavy with the stone book in one bag, and supplies in the other. She had been a little disappointed to find half of the book was more about eggs than mating, though the zebra had given her a list of places where she could find the other.

Arriving home she carefully spilled the contents on the bed, staring out at them for a few moments before sighing.

"Honestly, what am I doing?"

Mulling it over in her head, she pondered the morality of this. On one hoof, the two weren't official yet. There wasn't anything that said she couldn't do this. Nor was she forcing him to make a decision- just tipping the scales in her favor. On the other, she could sabotage one of her sisters first relationships. If Sweetie ever found out she would be relentlessly resentful. And Rarity could empathize, as it could be a little rude to do after they had set up their date.

"I'll do it after their date then. So the playing fields more even and he will have already had time to think both sides over. And I suppose I could pass these onto her if-"

"Rarity, who are you talking to?" she heard her sister asked, poking her head into the bedroom. "And have you already been up? It's barely afternoon, you feeling okay?"

"Oh, Y-Yes dear!" she replied, doing her best to obscure her vision of the things on the bed by standing in front of it. "And I was just chatting with myself. You know I can't work without a conversation of sorts."

"That is true. Sorry, I just worried is all." the unicorn ducked back into the hallway, leaving Rarity to grin as she stared out at her spread.

She pulled up a small branch with a purple crystal steam and yellow flowers with metal-like shaving petals like that of a daisy. "Drake-Damiana" read a small slip of paper, "Found in clusters of bushes in the rockiest regions of the DragonLands after particularly dry summers. Heals/Assists with: Low Blood Pressure, Appetite Suppression..., Rarity let her eyes roll over the list until she grinned, "...and Aphrodisiac. (See Preparation Guide in Binder 29.) Warning: Using in large amounts can cause low blood sugar."

Rarity set that one aside, contemplating inviting Spike over for tea while Sweetie was gone perhaps? And slipping a small amount into his drink? It wasn't a horribly strong aphrodisiac, and seemed to overall improve ones quality of life, thinking she'd slip some in the non-arousing prepared way as well to promote health. She wondered if ponies had a variant of this that worked for them.

She placed a section of it in the freezer like the instructions Zecora had given her entailed. Trotting into her creation room, thinking of all the different ways she could mix other things she had been given to arose him. Perhaps she could even make him other things that didn't have to do with intimacy. Through her lust she still fantasized about caring for him- more so in the past until her feelings of loneliness intensified.

Thoughts of rubbing aloe on singed scales and feeding him hot soup and tea as he curled up onto her couch flooded her mind. Blushing as she envisioned his face flushed with a fever, not unlike how he blushed in her explicit fantasies. Mentally preparing a trip to the edge of the DragonLands to get more supplies as she hummed in tandem with the purring of her sewing machines.

The Applesauce Thickens

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"I guess we all just distract ourselves with pointless pursuits until we expire." Rarity sighed, flipping through the pages of a romance book.

"Rarity, is something wrong?" Twilight asked, sitting up and tearing her gaze from the book in front of her. Sitting in a bean bag in the library, wearing light blue pajamas with her hair tucked into an orderly bun.

"I don't say that out of sadness darling, just a realization."

Twilight crossed a front leg over the other. "I wouldn't call all pursuits pointless."

"Perhaps. Life does improve in many cases for the future daily. Though I think we pretend things get better more than they actually do, thinking if we teach our foals not to do the same then it'll all be better, but it really never does get better. New solutions create new problems, it's a vicious cycle."

The alicorn raised an eyebrow at her. "I fundamentally disagree with a lot of this...philosophy. Rarity, tell me what's going on. This doesn't sound like you."

"Have you thought that maybe that's a good thing?" the unicorn snapped. "Sorry Twilight, I'm just finding it hard to be hopeful recently."

"Oh Rarity," she said, putting a bookmark in the novel and rising up, walking towards her friend and putting a wing around her. "Has AppleJack been on your mind...?"

The white mare shook a little, unable to met her friends warm gaze. "What did she tell you, by the by?"

Twilight frowned, "You really wanna know?"

"Obviously."

"Well, I know something happened between you and her in the room, there were drops of blood on the blanket of the bed. Sounded like you two fought over how your date went last week?"

Rarity rubbed her neck, entirely unsure exactly what she should say. Twilight thankfully continued, noticing her discomfort.

"Though I have my suspicions that something else might have gone down. Rarity, did what I think happen? Just say one or two. One for the f-"

"Two."

"Oh...wow. Um, Rarity, I say this not to offend-"

"You've already begun to with that!"

"Rarity, shh," her friend cooed, rubbing her back. "I was going to say I understood."

The unicorn lifted some of her mane to welcome the friendly massage. "I'm sorry, I will listen and not interupt anymore."

"Thank you. I've known for quiet some time that AppleJack's had a crush on you, if I am being totally honest. You two were both lonely, hadn't been intimate in a long time and well...I think AppleJack was hoping for something more serious. But then realized that this wouldn't happen, which is hurtful. When I went over there she told me you had gotten her hopes up, started crying and seemed to get angry at your date. Then when I asked what happened and why was there blood, she refused. I pressed harder than I should've and a shouting match begun. And well...none of us are on good terms with her now too, in a twisted way I hope you take comfort in knowing you're not the only one who screwed up. And we all have things we need to make up to her for."

The pair sat in silence, before Rarity brought out her notebook, opening to her ideas of ways to fix the situation. Reading it over, Twilight nodded thoughtfully.

"You know, I think I know exactly what to do. Though it'll take some time as I think she does need space and isn't receptive quite yet."

Hovering over a quill and ink, she tapped her chin, taking the notebook from Rarity and began to scribble. Chuckling, the alicorn sighed. "I swear, I shouldn't be surprised that the two Apple sisters are attracted to you and your sister."

"I beg your pardon? How do you know Apple Bloom is...?"

Twilight raised an eyebrow, before looking guilty at her. "It was a secret? Come on Rare, a little secret about me is I like mares too, and I know when somepony's trying to butter another up. And well... I know eavesdropping isn't how you're supposed to find out information, but while I was over at their barn I heard Apple Bloom confiding in her brother about her feelings about Sweetie when they thought me and AppleJack were in the room. Shame Sweetie doesn't play for the other team too, right?"

Rarity sat in silence, not knowing what to say until Twilight levitated the journal over to her. "What do you think of this?

The unicorn smirked, "It is divine."

"I've been thinking of moving out." Sweetie said, buttering toast. "Closer to the college, you know?"

"But Sweetie, you don't even have a job," Rarity reminded her, attempting to seem warm to the idea, though a part of her writhed inside thinking of her sister entering the real world. "And I've been letting you live here rent free."

"I know, and I feel bad about it," she replied, levitating a bowl of cream-o-wheat in front of the two of them. "Besides, it would give me a lot more freedom. And I have to grow up at some point! I can't always live here."

Rarity felt like a part of her died, shattering painfully, "That is true. I am glad to know you're taking initiative! Putting life into your own hooves, why I remember when I first set out. I was so scared and crawled back to mom and dad a few times before-" Seeing the hole she was digging she stopped by taking a bite out of an apple.

"But struggling is just a part of life!" Sweetie exclaimed, "And I learn more from that then being sheltered and being successful at the few things I do."

Rarity sighed, both admiring and dreading her sisters tenacity. She nodded, trying to look happy even though she felt like she was moments from falling apart.

Rarity jumped as a knock at the door sounded, breaking her concentration and causing her to accidentally sew a sleeve half shut.

"Who in the name of Celestia is knocking so early!" she whined, knowing full well it was early afternoon. Pacing over to the door with agitation, before stepping back as it opened by itself. To her astonishment, WolfBane came strutting in with an importance she'd never seen in his step. Wearing a baggy ivory shirt and wispy blue pants. And mane less slicked than before, but mostly the same.

"Good mor-afternoon. I was wondering if you did dry cleaning? I-" the pegasi stopped, looking as though he'd been slapped as he stared into Rarity's eyes. "I um...Am hoping to go on a date soon actually."

"Oh? With who?" she asked, looking like the wind had been knocked out of her.

"I dunno know if you know her," he drawled airily, pacing around her, "I met her on the way back from our date. She tripped over a sidewalk crack, and then a rock, which twirled her around and landed right into my wings. Turns out, she is a model all the way from Prance. We just got married two weeks ago."

Rarity pinned back her ears, furrowing her eyebrows as she tried to work up a smile.

"But you know what the best part is? I'm totally messing with you and none of that's real."

Rarity rolled her eyes but gave a light laugh, "Oh? How do you know I haven't married a model from Prance sine we've seen eachother?"

"Because I probably wouldn't see you in PonyVille- have you gotten involved with anypony...?" his smugness quickly melting back to his usual demure tone.

"Depends who's asking, darling." she teased, "No, I haven't."

"I didn't know you owned the Carousel Boutique, sorry this wasn't more of a surprise. On the plus side, Fluttershy will be coming over with some nachos any second now with a note asking you if you were free anytime soon."

"Oh? I probably could find a free day say, next Tuesday?"

WolfBane grinned widely, "That sounds amazing. Now do you do dry cleaning?"

Rarity sighed as she cracked open the book as she curled under her covers, flipping through pages on taking care of care and the female dragon reproductive system. Levitating nachos into her mouth with care, though her muzzle was notably stained with cheese. Smiling when she landed on a segment titled, "Courtship."

Throughout the many species of drakes, there is one constant. Besides the perceived attractiveness of their mate, the nest plays a crucial part in the mating process. Females will lure males in depending on how well structured the nest appears and the materials used. The rarer materials implemented either excites the male or lessens her chances depending on his species and mineral preference. A factor many successful mating have in their nests is an abundance of red lining the bottom. The softer the female can make her nest, the more the odds are in her favor not only for mating, but for the survival of her offspring. As stated in chapter 3, most dragons eggshells are made from-"

Skimming over the three paragraph segment on eggs, she read the closing paragraph.

"In conclusion, it is vital that the female has not only an ascetically pleasing, but functional nest. Depending on the males species, he may stay to raise the young and would desire more sizable nest. Sharp edges and bumps are seen entirely undesirable. Gems decorating the outside of it however have a sigh success rating and are often consumed pre-coitus."

Shifting onto her side, she buried her face in the pillows as she glanced over pages of example nests. One build with vines and sections of branches caught her eye. It looped in a perfect oval, with glittering garnet's and moonstones shoved into the vegetation. Around the ground were littering of pink, blue and purple pebbles, all looking smooth and polished. The book making note that this dragon had five mates duel over her, having high success rates every year with offspring survival and amounts.

She looked at her own bed, tapping a hoof on her chin before rising out of it. Backing up she observed it, with it's rectangular shape, green and blue covers and stuffed animals, it probably wasn't doing terribly much. Every morning she woke up she had to stretch out kinks and pain it caused, so perhaps looking into getting a new bed wouldn't be so bad. Nervously glancing outside as the day transitioned into early evening.

"Is the mattress store even open at this time?" she mumbled. Stepping back a few paces she began to put together a mental image of a new layout of the bed, partially inspired by the nests, and some elements for her own comfort as she cleaned up.

Gasping she ran out the door, levitating over her saddle bag onto her back. "Sweetie! I'm going out to the mattress store! Do you need anything while I'm out? I'll-!"

Stopping in front of her sisters room, she glanced in. Pinning back her ears at Sweetie's absence.

"She didn't even tell me she was going out." she sighed. "She is a grown mare now, and I must accept she has control of her life. But I really wish she wouldn't leave."

Plodding to town, she was pleasantly surprised to see that not only was the mattress store still open, but that it appeared they stayed open until midnight. Grinning she walked in, eyeing beds around with a curious wistfulness. Enamored by the how each bed had a little layout to go with it. Some having reading lamps beside them, while others had posters of teddy bears above them.

"Excuse me!" Rarity called a worker over, "This may seem like an odd request, but do you have a bed that's perhaps a little more round?"

She had expected an odd glance, however he didn't have a reaction more than a cheerful, "Follow me this way!"

Towards the back of the store a new section had been added. "For Creature's with Differing Requirements," read a sign. Along with a catalog of beds with many different shapes.

"Now what kind of creature's bed were you looking for today?"

"Oh, for a-for a female dragon! A good friend of mine really. She's hoping to have something she could have something that would be comfortable for eggs too?"

"But of course," the worker said, "Maturity beds are down that way. Sheets and accessories on the wall towards the back."

"Thank you ever so much." she smiled, nodding him off.

Looking around she was relieved to see no other pony or creature back here. Cantering over to the beds, she sized few of them up. They did look considerably more comfortable than her own bed, and were't necessarily much smaller. She was just about to try some of the standard looking ones, when an exquisite glimmer caught her eye.

Looking over, she spotted a smooth oval bed that was much more elevated than the others. The bed canopy covered most of it, looking like it was made of silk and feeling the same; starting from deep purple at the top, but as the color cascaded down it lightened, with its tips being a dusty fuchsia.

Climbing up the two steps beside it, she was immediately hit with inspiration on how to customize. She found the enclosed darkness comforting, so much she nuzzled the display pillows and did a test curl. Exhaling as she sunk into the satiny mattress. Her tail resting over the ornate gold border.

"Would you like us to install this in your home ma'm? Only 10 bits extra."

Jumping, she blushed. "Oh um, I-"

"Don't worry, I have one of these beds at home too, I'm not judging."

Rarity waved off the stallions who had come to help her set up the bed. Still bearing the bashful grin when she asked for their assistance to help move the other into a storage shed in the backyard. Her sister casting questioning glances all around when she returned in the fray of lugging.

"That's a unique bed." Sweetie offered, poking her head in.

"Oh darling, I haven't even begun to customize it yet!" she sang, stringing together a rainbow of gems with her tongue sticking out.

The curly haired unicorn furrowed her brows and scrunched up a smile, "I'll just leave you too it then."

Rarity's ears swiveled towards her words, but she offered no reply. Engrossed in creating. Wiping her forehead as she added things to it, before taking them back and reconsidering her plans. Numb to the passage of time as the moon ascended the sky further and further.

With a frazzled mane and heavy eyes, she yawned as she stared out at the final project. The gold border now housed glittering emeralds, sapphires, and glossy obsidian chunks. A silky wine-red sheet tucked evenly around the mattress peeked through her rosewood and mulberry blankets. Climbing up the steps, she rested her head on cobalt pillows. Watching the soft glints of the gems above her that she had sewed into the canopy. Ordered in a rainbow sequence, the six of them stabilized the structure so it wouldn't move. Her eyes were closed by the time dawns light peeked inside, igniting the gems and causing the colors to shimmer all around her.

Kaleidoscopic

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"Are you sure I look okay Rarity?" Sweetie fussed. Turning around in her onyx dress with powder blue highlights.

"Of course darling! You are in excellent hooves." her sister consoled, misty eyed. "Now let's do something about your mane."

"Well you always look fabulous," the curly haired unicorn groaned, "You don't even need makeup to look attractive. Stallions fall left and right for you no matter what."

Rarity accidentally tugged her sisters hair with the comb.

"Ow! Rarity! I do want to show up with a mane, thank you."

"Darling, take a deep breath for me, okay?"

Sweetie's chest swelled, puffing on her exhale. "Sorry, I didn't need to be rude like that."

"You didn't, but I know how stressful it is to go on your first date. So I will ignore it out of my eagerness to help. And please dear, don't belittle yourself. You do look amazing."

"I wish you could come with me," her sister smiled, "That way you could whisper what I am supposed to say to make the evening a hit. But I think that would make things an advanced kind of awkward."

Rarity chuckled, "Everypony has that feeling darling. Just do your best, that's all you can do. And you're already friends, which makes things monumentally easier."

"Thanks Rarity." Sweetie said, twiddling her front hooves.

"One moment, I have something that will make you look even more divine." Rarity beamed.

Hurrying back she planted a flower with a blue crystal stem by one of her sisters ears. Its petals unfurled like a tulip, and were a radiant violet, glowing softly. Sweetie gasped when she saw it.

"Rarity! I didn't even know flowers could grow like that! It's beautiful! Are you sure you want me to wear it? It looks awfully expensive and rare."

"Of course dear, what kind of sister would I be if I didn't properly prepare you?"

"You're the best!" Sweetie squeaked, wrapping her long front legs around her sister in a hug.

"It's really no problem!" Rarity choked, "Though I think you should get a move on. Men do have a tendency to arrive pretty early."

"Really? I thought it would be the other way around? Do you think I should've worn the red one?" she asked, pinning around. The black dress she wore was a dark contrast to her porcelain fur, hugging her backside in a way that flirtatiously showed the bare outline of her curves, no doubt would arouse curiosity. It's train flowed to her ankles, highlighted with cerulean. Her light blue eye shadow mimicked what her sister usually wore, but darkened a few shades.

Rarity firmly shook her head. "No. This ensemble is divine darling. Defiantly will have him squirming in his seat."

"Rarity! Well then I'll get going, and tell you how it went once I get back!"

"Sounds good!" Rarity called as her sister charged out the door. Sighing, she trudged back to her room. "I'm sure it will go well. That was my only Drake-Femgratus, so you'll smell like a lady dragon in heat. Perhaps there is another dragon around town?"

Rarity let out an exasperated groan as she finished the final page of the book. "If Twilight didn't have the other half in the library, then where is it?"

Sighing, she trotted of her new bed and into the laundry room where Opal had decided was the proper place to raise her kittens. The feline grunted, acknowledging her entrance as she bathed one of her babies. Topaz slept above on the dryer. Lowering to her knees she petted Opal, cooing compliments on her fur and offspring. They had opened their eyes about a week ago and were becoming adventurous tykes.

She pondered how the date between her sister and Spike was going. Images of him dappered up in dark blue tuxedo caused her to shiver. Thinking of how those pants would pinch his manhood, sent a guilty jolt through her marehood. Light flowing off of his smooth scales and the softness of his eyes caused her to clench her jaw.

"Sweetie will be tremendously lucky, won't she?" she asked Opal. "And I'll always be home, talking to you or Topaz."

Resting her head on her hooves she thought harder, "I suppose that's not entirely true. I could have a decent shot at WolfBane if I play my cards right. Though, it wouldn't feel the same in...that way, you know? I want to feel his scales graze my-"

Opal gave her an incredulous sneer as she cleaned her other child.

"Oh, perhaps not in front of the kittens." she blushed.

Looking out the window, she groaned. It was barely early evening and she had a few more hours she'd spend alone. Considering trotting over to the library to visit Twilight, she decided against it. Though she respected Spike's decision, she didn't want to be right there when they announced it. The thought filled her with ambivalence- pain mingled with happiness for her sister.

Pulling out her notebook as she walked back into her room, she stared at what Twilight scribbled down yesterday. Rubbing her neck and mulling it over. Was it a good idea? Looking at the calendar she winced, noting how much time had passed since the incident. She hadn't so much seen her friend, much less said anything.

Grumbling, she ripped out a pearly white page from the notebook. Levitating a quill over its rich surface.

Dearest AppleJack,

I understand why you are upset, and accept my apology may not have enough fortitude. But I sincerely hope you do know I feel remorse. I hope all has been well with you and your recovery from my foolishness has already begun to overtake you. I can see why you'd still not want to talk, and I don't blame you. But just know I am always here for you if you need me. Worst of all, I know the kind of pain you're going through now and I wish I could swoop in and make everything all better. But I can't. I can only hope that time and love from all of us will assist in the recovery process and heal over the wound.

Respectfully, Rarity

Reading over the message, she puffed hotly. Crumbling it and throwing it aside. "That is defiantly not good enough. You'll just make things worse."

AppleJack,

It is with a heavy heart I compose this message. I understand my words don't have enough fortitude to make up for what I've done. And expect you'd still like silence to remain between us, so this will be my only letter. I entirely respect that.

Just know I feel remorse, if I could take it back I would. Worst of all, I know the breed of pain you're feeling as I have been in similar circumstances. I wish I could swoop in and make it all better. But I can't.

Please know you are loved and appreciated by all around you. Including me. You are an inspiration and an amazing friend I should've treated better instead of being rash. I believe you'd hoped we could become something more serious, and it broke your heart when you realized we couldn't. You need somepony much stronger than I. Somepony who can be what you need, and I am just not it.

The only thing we have in this terrifying existence are the bonds we make. I've ruined so many of mine, I just know I value you and will respect if you'd like this to be the end between us. There are beings just to painful to be around, and as grueling as it is to know I've become one, I will accept the consequence.

Rarity

"No, that's not much better," she moaned, setting the page on her table. "Perhaps I must rest on it. We always find the thing we're searching for once we stop looking for it."

Pulling over blueprints for dresses, she set herself to work. Thinking how she could congratulate a potential new couple tonight.

"I do hope they'll both happy," she sighed, "Even if that means I must separate myself from talking to him from now on. It would just be too painful, and I wouldn't want to intrude on his joy with my destructive emotions. He deserves better than that."

Rarity eagerly poked her head out the kitchen window once she spotted Sweetie trotting home with a smile on her face. She grinned back at her, motioning her head to hurry into the kitchen. Pulling herself back in, she adjusted the fixture of two cups and a pitcher full of orange juice.

Excitedly sitting down, she waited for her sister. Upon walking in the kitchen, Sweetie smugly cantered in, taking the opposite chair.

"Details? Spill them." Rarity softly demanded, pouring both of their cups.

Sweetie chuckled at the display. "We haven't done an orange juice talk session in ages! I missed them. Defiantly too full for the traditional chocolate cake, though it appears that's already been accounted for."

She nodded, taking a sip and waving a hoof towards her as if to pull the words out of her.

Sweetie took in a deep breath, speaking as though this were a business transaction. "Nothing spectacular to report, except the restaurants five cheese ricotta. We're still just good friends, nothing official yet. And-" her voice cracked, returning to its original cadence, "Oh Rarity, I was so nervous! I arrived early and he was just so handsome in his yellow suit! I couldn't say anything for a few seconds before I blurted out, "how are you this morning?" I thought that somehow being college aged would protect me from being clumsy and jittery, but I was all over the place when I talked! He must think I am weird and that it was a mistake-"

Rarity held up a hoof, stopping her. "No matter what age you are, all dates will hold something clumsy. But that's a part of the fun, you know? You wouldn't remember a perfect date, silly things are going to be what you remember. And they are, in fact, the things that make them beautiful."

"You're too good at this, sis. But he was an absolute gentleman. Assuring me he was having fun, telling me I looked beautiful, wondering how I've been and wanting to hear my plans for college. Really liked the idea of me moving out," she said, eyes flashing mischievously, "And said he'd adore if I could set some time aside next Friday. Oh! And me and him will be in the same Creaturalogy class!"

Sweetie went on the describe the intricacies of the date, how their waiter supported Hetro-Species relationships and an inventory of every detail. The thought of Spike's glowing smile raced through her mind. Filling her with relaxation as she played out their date in her mind. The two of them laughing, him salaciously wiggling his eyebrows and talking to her sister about her future- and perhaps even theirs.

"Sounds like you two had fun." she grinned.

"We really did," her sister said dreamily, "I hope you will tomorrow too."

"I beg your par- oh! Yes, my soiree with WolfBane, I-"

"Rarity, don't be humble it's a date. And every pony knows you are head over heels for each other," she giggled, "I can already hear the church bells ringing!"

"Oh stop it!" she tried to looked embarrassed, but only half committed.

"This sounds silly, but um...do you have any tips for me?" Sweetie guiltily asked, "This all still makes me anxious. And I know he's a dragon and probably works differently-"

"Don't worry darling," scrunching her muzzle, she let the lie flow like liquid silver, "I also knew you'd ask, so I picked up a book from Zecora. I'll leave it on your desk."

"You're too kind. And to think we used to be at each others throats all the time a few years ago."

She nodded, "Now, here are a few tips I've picked up over the years that have drove stallions ballistic. The secret is..."

"Spike?" Rarity purred, nuzzling closer against his bare scales. "You won't leave, will you?"

"Why would you ask that?" he cooed, stroking her stomach.

"I just worry, I always worry."

"Well don't, what good does that ever bring?"

"Yes but, after this...you're hers. Oh Spikey Wikey, I wish we could lay here together forever. But...you must do what makes you happy, and I will never allow myself to get in the way of that. Even if that means-"

"Rarity, don't."

She dragged herself off his bed and onto the crystal floor. Yanking back on her clothes and fixing her mane. "I can't Spike. Goodbye." she choked out.

Walking out into the hallway, she passed AppleJack, who was sneering down at her letter.

"You just thought this would make everythin' okay?" she seethed, "Nothing can make up for destroying somepony like you did me. And not knowin' what a bad pony ya're doesn't make you any less bad."

"Yes, I know dear." she sobbed, running outside, screaming as blinding light crashed down on her.

The boiling heat from the sun seared her hooves, shards of pain shooting through her veins. She turned to go back into the castle, only to be met with an expanse of nothing. The heatwave bore deeper into her, gasping she ran towards her home. Only to feel the ground give out underneath her, shrieking, descended into the opening of the earth. Feeling as though she was trapped inside a kaleidoscope spinning all the colors wildly, every time one out of thousands of patterns turned, it created a cacophony of deafening noises.

Rarity jolted awake, sweat drenched chest heaving as her heart tried to rip through it. Looking around, she sighed, resting back down, nerves still shot. Pulling back her ears once she realized that it was already evening and jumping out of bed.

"For Celestia's sake!" she spat, tripping over a roll of fabric, and landing on the end of a basket full of yarn, propelling them across the room. "What else is going to go wrong today?!"

"Rarity, you okay?" Sweetie popped her head in, "I heard like five small thuds and a big one."

Shaking herself off, she hustled to the mirror. Growling at the ball of periwinkle yarn that she impaled with her horn. Swiftly brushing out her bedhead, she turned to her sisters confounded face. "Has any pony come by today?"

"Fluttershy did, she left a note at the table. We couldn't wake you up, must've been up late working on the Winter Line, huh?"

"Oh- um, yes," a cold stone dropped in her gut remembering she still had to do this. "Though I'm already late for-"

"Of course!" Sweetie squeaked, "The letter has WBF on it! Would you like me to bring it up?"

"Yes darling." she smiled, washing of the makeup she forgot to take off before bed.

Sweetie returned moments later with a small cherry envelope. Opening it, Rarity smiled at the gorgeous soft blue paper and the curvature of his writing.

_{Rarity,

I came by this afternoon but nopony answered the door. Hope all is well, but if you decided to cancel today I respect that. I came off pretty cheesy the other day, which could've been embarrassing, I do apologize about that. But if all that happened was you overslept and you aren't upset, feel free to drop by my place today. I'll likely still be in pajamas, so feel free to come in those too! Address and directions are on the back.

If you don't stop by, thank you for voluntarily seeing me the other night. Meant a lot to me and I really enjoyed my time with you. I hope you have a wonderful day, and/or life, if this is our last form of contact.

Ever grateful, WolfBane}

"What a dear," she giggled.

"Wow, I thought for sure you were going to say gentleman, this must be serious." Sweetie grinned cheekily.

She playfully rolled her eyes at her sister. Tucking her mane and tail into lazy buns before trotting out the door. Champagne pink pajamas fluttering in the light breeze. Pulling out the letter for directions every other turn to make sure she was going the right way. Frowning when she realized it was farther than she anticipated, coasting herself over to a park bench and resting.

"Wow Rarity, um, I really like whatever this look here is." Apple Bloom's crisp voice sounded behind her. "Looks nice 'n breezy."

"You don't have to butter me up dear, I'm still in pajamas."

"Sorry, wasn't tryin' to. Pretty nice pair of 'em though." she said, shyly shuffling over. Wearing a heavy red jacket and black pants.

Rarity's eyes weighed with sympathy, pursing her lips, she carefully spoke, "Haven't been taking it well, have you?"

"Takin' what well?" Apple Bloom asked, attempting to look flabbergasted.

"Darling, you're wearing a puffy coat in late summer and aimlessly walking around the park you used to take Winona to. And it's the day after your friend went on a date."

She barely caught Apple Bloom's flinch. "I've been feelin'-"

"I know how you felt about Sweetie dear. It is heart breaking. I know what it's like to watch the one you're in love with be carried off by another."

Apple Bloom stood like a statue, anger bubbled on her face before her bottom lip trembled and she let out a light sob. "I know 'm just bein' silly lettin' it affect me like this. I feel so stupid."

"Don't be dear, everypony's been there." she consoled, offering her a place beside her. "This will pass."

"It's one've those dumb college aged things, right? Like the voice in'a back of your head tellin' you you're never good 'nough and you're stupid 'n ugly? Oh who'm I ki-"

"Yes," Rarity murmured, stroking her back.

Apple Bloom sniffled, wiping away a few tears that escaped. "Wait, really? That was just wishful thinkin', but thanks. It really does make me feel better." Her shuddering went down exponentially, sighing, she hugged her.

Rarity allowed the embrace for longer than usual, knowing the mare likely still had tears rolling down her face and was still composing herself.

"So AppleJack will be okay?" the earth pony asked, "I still don't know what's wrong."

"She's just letting off steam darling. Give her time and just be kind to her."

"Thanks Rarity, you're the best." Apple Bloom said, picking herself back up and jumping down. "Was I really that obvious though? Or did Big Mac tell you?"

Grinning, she replied coolly, "The details from earlier and my intuition point me toward it. That and I've been exactly where you are too. You should get home though, AppleJack could use the company I'm sure."

Apple Bloom chuckled, "Doubt it. Rainbow 'n Fluttershy've been over there non stop this last week. If anything, I think she wants a break."

"Oh? That- thank you for telling me that." Rarity gasped, feeling an enormous weigh lift from her body. "Now I must get going posthaste."

"Hm? Oh! You still heading over to W.B.'s place or heading back? Fluttershy was talkin' about it when I left."

"W.B.? That is less of a mouthful. And I've yet to go over, because-"

Apple Bloom eyed her up, "Pajama party? Outfit would make a lot more sense." she stated saucily.

Rarity blushed, nodding. "Y-yeah."

Once the two trotted well away from one another, she couldn't help but fantasize what his house would look like. Would it smell just as good as him? What kind of pajama's was he wearing?

"Would he let me stay the night?" she airily asked the path, surprised to hear herself vocalize the thought. "Honestly, we've only been on one date Rarity!"

Though the new bed was a blessing on her back, she couldn't help but feel heavy again at the thought of walking back that night, sleeping alone after the date. Groaning as she passed small bushes of oleander.

"Of course he wouldn't want me sleeping at his place this soon, I-"

"How do you know I wouldn't?" a silvery voice chastised her behind a large blue hydrangea bush. "Sorry if I spooked you, I'm almost done trimming here. I didn't think you were coming so I'm covered a skosh in dirt and fertilizer. Something wrong? And for the record, if you wanted to sleep over, that would be fine by me."

Rarity was stunned however, as she continued to pace forward her eyes were met with an explosion of flora. Bushes of all kinds lined a small path coming up to it, before encircling a small garden. Towering trees surrounded them, almost distracting her from the smaller, fruit covered ones poking behind bushes, which coated the area in a tangy aroma. Mixed with the fragrant perfume of the flowers littering bushes and in beds around them. In the middle a cloud column stood, almost entirely covered in glittering blue ivy with sharp leaves, arching over to reveal an alcove.

The earth below her was a mixture of colors- the word kaleidoscopic came to mind. Whipping her head around she discovered a new kind of plant with every inch she took it.

"Are you still there?" WolfBane's concerned voice piped off.

"Y-Yes, I'm here. I apologize, your cour caught me off guard. It's beyond stunning. Literally had me breathless for a moment. Did you plant all of these? There's so many! I've never seen half of these."

With a giggle as sweet as honey, the pegasi emerged from the bush. Twigs, leaves, and dirt clinging to his mane. She chuckled warmly at his baggy blue pajama shirt and shorts. He shyly glanced down at them.

"I'll change into another pair. Celestia knows I live in these. And it looks."

"A true bachelor." she teased, then pinned her ears back. "Though you do wear more than those, right?"

"Have you already ate?" he smiled, motioning her towards the alcove.

Following him inside, her eyes widened when she spotted the twirling staircase. Ascending them, she couldn't help but look at his ass. Blushing at her brashness, she watching the smooth pajamas brush over his graceful curves and firm buttocks.

"I haven't dear, I apologize. My blood sugars low if we could move a bit slower...?"

"O-Of course! Are you really okay? Perhaps some french toast?"

"That would be divine."

Volume II: Attracting a Mate

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Clouds swept under Rarity's hooves once they reached the top. Inside smelled like the garden below; earthy but with a sophisticated redolent. Fur on her back prickled from the unanticipated chill, dreading wearing something so breezy.

Her deep indigo bun bobbed as she looked around, eyes widening at the shelves full of breathtaking potted plants. Housed under them were long tables strewn with paper work and science equipment. She pursed her lips at a jug that appeared to be full of shimmering stars.

"My, this is inspired," she breathed, trotting closer to his side, "I hope you didn't lug all of this up those stairs by yourself?"

He shrugged, "Most of it. I had a few lab partners help. Thankfully most plants aren't as heavy as they look. How've you been lately by the way? I know I shouldn't asked that by now, I apologize."

"It is quite alright dear. And I suppose I've been alright. Yourself?"

"Just alright?" he raised an eyebrow.

She furrowed hers and titled her head, "Yes, something wrong with that? And you didn't answer my question."

WolfBane smiled, "I've been frustrated and worried, a few panic attacks here and there. Which makes me feel exhausted most of the time- you'd be surprised how much work and research I have to do. Once you make in into the Canterlot Archives, you become an asset to developing Equestrian medicines whether you think you can handle it or like it. But I have managed to see you again, and to secure the possibility of a sleepover if you'd still like."

Her ears pinned up and eyes softened, "I never realized you were so stressed and your work was even more important than I thought. N-Not to say I didn't think it was important before."

His gentle gaze washed over her, "You don't have to pretend, when I say I work with plants, I can see how most would roll their eyes and not take it seriously. And there are others more stressed than me, so don't feel too sorry. Rarity, please answer me honestly, have you been crying?"

"I haven't actually, why?"

"Your eyes are bloodshot and-" he glanced around, "You might be allergic to something here."

"I didn't really sleep last night, which is probably why. I feel fine other than that."

"Are you absolutely sure?" he firmly pressed.

She gently nodded, "I don't intend to be rude, but do you think we could get started on the french toast? My blood sugar is actually low now and-"

"Now?"

"I-I mean-"

"This is bold for me to assume, but did you trail behind to...check me out?" he furiously blushed. "I know I'm really not all that atttr-"

Flushing pink, she blurted "You're gorgeous actually. I am sorry, should I not do that? I couldn't help it."

His blush deepened, "O-Oh no, you can if you'd like. I'm sorry, I'm not used to that happening and we seem to be progressing rapidly to.."

"We can slow it down dear, this is fast for me too. We'd need to get to know each other much more before that."

"I'm glad we're on the same page," he sighed, "Let me get changed out of this, and I'll make the french toast for you."

"I can help if-"

"I have a satin memory foam sofa in the living room- just keep walking straight and you'll hit it. I know the walk here was long, please rest."

Grinning, she galloped forward. The room was tidied much more than she'd anticipated. The rich-chocolate sofa matched the glossy coffee table, providing a dark contrast to the periwinkle blinds. A tall, black-cherry bookcase reached the ceiling, books organized by subject. An end table housed a bright yellow hyacinth, the only plant in the room for that matter. The other housed books he must still be reading. Smiling when she saw they both read the same romance book series, Mare Amare .

Scanning over the other books, she froze. Underneath the pile, one had a onyx stone binding. Carefully pulling it out with her magic, she read the cover. Her heart felt like jagged pillars of glass burst through her heart:

Guide to Drake Courtship:Attracting a Mate

"What?!" she seethed under her breath, "Why...?"

White noise filled her head as she cracked it open and deposited herself on the heavenly sofa. Noticing a few pages were bookmarked, she began to read one over.

Recent studies have concluded that Drake's can be very susceptible to certain vegetation and gems increasing their sex drive while in heat. Crystalic-Yohimbe, Skullpaz, and Oatstraw are a few examples.

A paramount thing to note is a Drake's greed can be switched over to coitus with too much application of these, which can potentially be harmful to them and others around. Drake's Greed is insatiable once-

"Sorry I took so long. I tried to get out some of the muck in my hair and fur." WolfBane announced, now garbed in blue pajamas with a light green robe, a blanket of the same color on his back.

Rarity snapped the book shut, wincing and the clank of stones. He flinched, stepping back at the noise. The two stared at each other for a moment, before his eyes drifted to the literature she was levitating.

Chuckling, he sat down beside her, offering her the blanket. "Don't worry, I got that as a gift while I was studying in the DragonLands for research on how certain herbs affect them. Now that more creatures are widely accepted here, I needed to brush up on how to treat them and not just ponies. Dragons weren't interested much in medical practices- their immune systems are immensely strong actually- so this was the closest guide they had. I've also got books on yaks, kirin, hypogriffs. Dragon vegetation itself is a fascinating thing to study."

"Ah yes, it just looked so peculiar I had to look at it." she lied.

"I understand," he said with a bright smile, "Especially since you have a dragon friend, right?"

A cool breeze relaxed her mind when she thought of a scheme, "Why yes. Coincidentally, he's been having a hard time attracting another female dragon. I understand you may need this for your work, but do you think I could perhaps lend this to him? He lives in a library, so he is tremendously good with books."

"My research has been more pony based recently, so I don't see why not, so yes."

The duo chatted about Mare Amare over french toast as the moon rose. Rarity couldn't help but feel guilty with each bite, as he had a true talent for not only making decadent culinary pieces, but also made them look stunning. Intricate trails of powdered sugar were darkened by rivers of syrup, and the half-strawberries decorating the edges were some of the reddest she had seen. He airily waved a hoof in the air every time she offered a compliment, though the smile on his face was priceless.

"I don't know, I just don't think it's fair to Waterfall Pearls."

"How so?" Rarity beamed.

WolfBane rubbed his chin, "Well, Robin Thorn is still in love with Countess Blanche. So he isn't with her from a place of honesty and is still pining after somepony else. He's only with her because she's so insecure that she doesn't feel like she deserves better."

The unicorn tilted her head, nodding for him to continue.

"That's a running theme in this story I suppose- we only allow ourselves to be as loved as much as we think we deserve to be, but I feel like there is more logic behind love. And Waterfall Pearls is still hoping Duke Spinel will see that Madame Album isn't right for him. She's supposed to be seen as a selfless character, but I can't help but find her selfish. So they both aren't being fair to one another."

"I think being selfish is necessary sometimes. And they are both making the best out of their situations. You can't always get with the pony the pony you want- like the last lines say: Twas a tragedy all mine, heart shattered though I acted fine. Thus the harshest truth of life dawned on me. One day you'll meet a pony who ignites a fire in you that cannot die, but they are not always the equine to whom which we will spend our with lives."

"You actually memorized that?" he gasped, "And I thought I was a Mare Amare fan!"

"I've read the series a couple dozen times," she smiled, rubbing the back of her head. "It's always been a guilty pleasure of mine."

"I only picked it up last summer, after the rock slide took out most of my house."

Rarity's ears stood up, putting an elbow on the table, she leaned in sympathetically. "What happened with that? I've heard about it taking our your house, but well, that's it."

"There's not much more to tell," he groaned, looking down at the table cloth, "When you live on the side of a mountain, it's to be expected. I came home from getting some of my papers peer-approved and showing them how to set up the tests, only to lose most of what I had. Thankfully I was already in the processes of moving plants over there."

"I'm sure you've already been showered with condolences, but I am so sorry that happened to you. I have no idea what I'd do if my Boutique was destroyed."

"You could always crash here. If you were comfortable with that, I mean. I know how rough it is to go without a home."

She grinned at him, "And if your house ever got destroyed, you could always crash at mine. Perhaps you could come over for tea sometime?"

First Move

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Rarity grumbled as she shifted on the sofa in the dark. Sighing and regretting being so distracted with the french toast and the discussion of an obscure book that she agreed to sleeping in different rooms. She still felt wide awake and no where near ready for rest.

Defeated, she dragged herself from it's plush surface, allowing her horn to softly glow as she traversed towards the staircase. Descending, she couldn't help but wonder what Sweetie was up to? Her friends? Spike.

She shook the thought out of her head. "You'll only hurt yourself with that." she seethed almost inaudibly.

Her hooves carried her across his garden, and back down the path she had come from. She intended to go back, though wandered without direction. The sky was blotched with onyx clouds, twinkles of stars barely able to escape the fray. As she passed the last oleander bush, the ambrosial scent of the flowers faded, replaced by the the fragrant dust and grass of typical PonyVille trails.

"I could go home," she whispered "I don't suppose I wouldn't really need the book anymore."

Her hoof-falls became heavier the closer she came to the Boutique, thankful for the tiredness so she could turn off her mind. Pinning back her ears when she thought of WolfBane waking up, only for her to be gone. He seemed like an easy stallion to lie to, she'd say she had forgotten business. Her close friends would even believe that one, she was nearly a household name at this point.

A twinge of guilt stung inside her chest. What was the real reason she was traveling back at night? Alone.

She broke into a jog, as if to escape her own thoughts, tired legs plodding against roads and grass. Her vision began to gray as it evolved into a gallop, uncaring that she must've chipped a hoof kicking up stones. Tail billowing behind her, glowing softly as rays of moonlight caressed it.

She was unaware where she stopped, or that she'd toppled over. Her body and mind demanded rest, and she willing allowed herself to shut down. It was an ironic tragedy that she would miss this summers most beautiful, golden dawn. Which ignited the crystals of the castle in front of her, oceans of shimmering light caressing her body as she curled up at the foot of the stairs.

The unicorn awoke, startled to find herself in a firm bed with a downy purple blanket. Stretching and yawning, she flinched when she heard claws clicking against hard floor. Rubbing her eyes, she pried them wide enough to see all of her surroundings- to which all the blood in her body froze.

Spike stood in the doorway, head sheepishly peaking in. "Sorry Rare, didn't mean to scare you. Just wanted to check and make sure you were okay."

She did her best to meet his eyes, but she couldn't fully. "O-Oh thank you dear."

The drake offered her a grin sweeter than honey, "Did you need anything? More time to wake up? Some water and breakfast?"

"All of that, if it wouldn't be any trouble," she sleepily drawled, "Spike darling, can you tell me why I'm here?"

The dragon furrowed his brows, "We were hoping you could tell us. I found you sleeping by the stairs and carried you inside when I couldn't wake you. I put you up in Starlight's old room- she's collected everything but the bed and a few little things."

"Good heavens, I don't remember even coming here, I was sleeping over at WolfBane's-" Spike winced at this name, but his face was still cloaked with sympathy. "And then I woke up here."

"Don't worry about it and rest up some more if you need it, me 'n Twilight will figure out what's going on."

"I can't thank you enough, you really are a gem."

The drake rolled his eyes but gave a wide smile, "Anything for you, Rare."

As he left the room, she rubbed her pulsating marehood to calm it down. Blushing and burying her head under a pillow, her tail twitched, swishing under the covers. It had been a considerable time now that it hurt like this, she clenched her jaw as her traced the area in circles, the coolness of her pajamas a true blessing.

This time was different, however. Instead of images of them salaciously tangled, his compassionate eyes and grin flashed through her mind. A fantasy where she went down and cooked breakfast for him and talked about how he'd been feeling lately and thanking him for going through all the trouble-

"Am I really that lonely?" she mumbled into a pillow. "Come on Rarity, pull yourself together."

The pain in her nethers slowly died down, moving up to her heart instead. She curled tighter under the blanket, coldness enveloping her body. She raised an ear when she heard multiple sets of hooves clomping down the hallway. Easily picking out voices.

Two hooves clicked in the doorway, planted with precision. "Looks like she went back to sleep." Twilight.

"Poor dear," a soft voice cooed, hooves brushing against eachother. Fluttershy. "I have no idea what happened, he was gone when I went to check."

The next voice was accompanied by the flapping of wings. Rainbow. "Must've been pretty bad. Rarity doesn't run from anything, have to give her credit for that."

"Pinkie!" Twilight growled at the the hooves who swiftly scrapped the floor beside her.

"Sorry Twi, I just wanted to make sure she looked okay," the mare tsked, "It's worse than I thought. She's curled up like a little teeney-tiny caterpillar miserably hiding from snow in winter. That position is reserved for her worst days."

"Is she going to be okay?" chorused a voice with calculated hoof steps. Sweetie?

"Don't you worry none, she'll be fine," consoled a voice furthermost from the group. AppleJack. "Whatever happened, I know she's strong an' will bounce back.

Her muzzle scrunched as ambivalence flooded her. An arctic blast of guilt fought with a heatwave of relief. A smile crept up on her face.

"Everpony!" Spike quietly chastised, "She won't be able to rest properly with all of you talking in the doorway."

Reluctant sighs and clamoring of hooves faded away from her.

"Sorry," the drakes whispered, "Sleep well, and know we'll help you get better after whatever happened."

She mouthed thank you into the mattress, the grin spreading wider as trickles of warmth ran through her. Healing some of her sadness as she loosened her form.

"Just know you're appreciated and I will always be here, even if no one else is," the claws began to click away, "I'm sorry I haven't visited, that'll change."

Rarity allowed herself to slip back into a deep slumber. Splaying out on the bed like a starfish and nuzzling the pillow in her arms.

Upon waking again, it only took her a few moments to be fully awake. Cantering down stairs with purpose, mane and tail in sloppy buns. The late afternoon sun brilliantly illuminating patches of crystal on her walk. She bashfully entered the kitchen, looking around and swiveling her ears to detect any sound. Frowning when she didn't pick up anything, and retreating.

"Spike? Twilight?" she called, "I am ever so grateful for your hospitality, I do hope I wasn't of any inconvenience?"

Furrowing her brows, she checked both of their bedrooms and the study. "Well I know it's not a school day. Where would every one have gone?"

She ultimately decided to go back to the kitchen, pouring herself some strawberry cereal and waiting. "I'll reimburse her an enter box to make up for this," she moaned flatly.

"Rarity?" Spike called, footfalls coming closer to her location.

The unicorn dropped her spoon. Hastily picking it back up and gaining her composure. She sighed, growling at herself under her breath.

"Sorry, I didn't realize you'd woken up," he shyly grinned, "Did you sleep well?"

Shuffling in her seat, she nodded. "I really did, thank you dear. Have we solved the mystery yet?"

The drake shook his head, "Not yet. None of us have been able to find WolfBane. Fluttershy hopes he's out looking for you, I'd imagine he's worried sick." He avoided her gaze as he said this.

"Perhaps. Gracious, I hope this isn't my fault and I've hurt somepony else with my rashness."

"What do you mean?"

"O-Oh, um, perhaps later dear," she tapped the table with her hooves. "I heard some voices earlier?"

"Shoot, I knew they were being too loud and responded too late." he growled.

"They didn't interrupt my slept dear, but thank you for leading them away. Truth is I haven't been sleeping well recently."

"Would you like some coffee with your cereal while we talk about that? You like yours with two parts milks and a spoon of sugar, right?"

She couldn't help but giggle, "Why yes. How have you remembered that? I can't remember the last time I've even had coffee with you nearby."

"If I'm good for one thing, it's remembering the little things." he shrugged, preparing a pot.

"Spike. Your good for much more than that, though that is rare to find these days."

"Hm? Like what?"

She cleared her throat, "You exemplify not only all the Elements, but you are understanding, empathetic, thoughtful, and resourceful. And that's only getting started."

He chuckled, "Alright, I get it."

"H-How did the date go with Sweetie, by the way?"

He was silent for a moment, before sighing. "It was good and all but, Rarity, can I be honest with you?"

"I wouldn't have it any other way."

"I can only see the two of us being friends. Just because we make good friends doesn't mean we'd make a good couple, you know? Especially since I'm still hung up over someone else. Throughout our date I couldn't help but think about her. It's not fair to her if I'm not fully invested."

She felt another part of herself break, though it was only a crack compared to canyons she'd felt recently.

"Oh? That's actually pretty insightful and mature, darling."

"Really? I keep worrying I'm being a jerk and am just going to hurt her. I suppose when we care about someone, we have to face the reality they'll hurt us in one way or another, but I didn't want it to be like this."

"Spike, never feel like you have to with hold how you truly feel from anyone. So long as you are respectful, she'll understand."

"But there's more..." he grumbled, setting down a hot cup in front of her.

"I apologize dear, go on."

"I know it's not fair, but what if I can't get with the...creature I mentioned? Like, it's entirely impossible? And is she, or someone else wants to be with me, am I being awful still being with them?"

She attempted to mouth words, but just gaped like a fish.

"I'm sorry, I know that sounds like a very childish problem. Perhaps I deserve to be alone."

"No darling. Look, so long as you communicate that to them beforehand, I think it's okay. And feelings do fade dear. I know it sure doesn't feel like it, but I'm sure whoever this is, I can assure you won't be able to remember them in a few years. I promise. Nothing helps better with that process than love however, you aren't bad for missing someone."

He nodded with a blank stare. "You said you hadn't been sleeping well, though?"

"Oh yes, that."

"Any particular reason? Odd dreams perhaps?"

"Actually, yes. Mind you this may sound odd, but I'll try my best. I had one where I was trapped in a kaleidoscope, and all the colors were too bright. As the patters turned they played this awful cacophony of sounds that made my eardrums feel like they were bursting. And both in the dream and in real life I could feel my heart hammering in my chest and I couldn't breathe."

The dragon rubbed his chin, taking a sip of his coffee. "This is just a theory, but it sounds a like a panic attack. From what Twilight's said recently it sounds like you've been stressed, which adds more evidence to that."

"In my sleep?Is that possible?"

"Happens to me every once in a while, it's really scary, but a little less each time it happens."

Her ears drooped at this. "Spike," she cooed, "Has anything been wrong recently?"

"I don't think you'd understand and wouldn't want to trouble you with my problems anyway." he said, getting up.

"You wouldn't be troubling me at all dear. In fact I am upset now that I know a calamity has befallen you, and if you don't tell me what it is, my imagination will do the work."

"Alright," he sighed, sitting back down. "I don't know how to say this."

"Take your time dear. I'm here for you."

Just as he opened his mouth, they heard a collection of hooves and voices approaching. Rustling of bags could be heard, all bearing chipper tones.

"Another time then." he grinned, "You still need cheering up, I can wait."

Resolution faux Resolution

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"But darling, we-" Rarity stammered.

"It's really okay Rarity, come to me once you're ready." Spike consoled, taking his cup and leaving. "Get feeling better, I'm here if you need me."

As the last of his tail slithered around the corner, the tip of a bouncy, hot pink mane peeked around the corner. The mare's sky blue eyes lit up as a grin consumed her face. Carefully trotting in and extending out her arms, tilting her head.

Rarity nodded, accepting the embrace.

"How've you been feeling, Rare?"

"I've been well, just a little confused. I hope I haven't cause a fuss."

The rest of the group entered the kitchen, offering her sympathetic gazes. AppleJack tailing behind them all, but still looking worried. The warmth in her chest began to swell, squeezing the pink mare in her arms until she squeezed.

"Sorry Pinkie. It's great to see all of you again, I do thank you for your concern."

"You don't have to thank us, Rarity." Fluttershy softly chastised, "But I am relieved that you look okay."

Rainbow hovered beside her, squinting around her head.

"Dash, what are you doing?" she insecurely piped, smoothing over her mane with a hoof.

"Just checking to make sure nopony missed anything." the pegasi replied, landing and lighting prodding an area on her head. "Does it hurt when I do this?"

"N-Ah! It does actually, just a little bit. But only when you put pressure on it."

Twilight raised her eyebrows at Rainbow.

"What, Twi? Creatures injure themselves all the time at practice, I think I know how to find secret bumps."

The alicorn smiled, nodding approvingly. "Did you spot anything?"

The blue mare tenderly moved around the unicorns head, scanning before slinking back. "Just a little bump. Could have a concussion depending on-"

Fluttershy's eyes sternly flashed in her direction.

"-If something happened that we don't know about that night." Twilight coolly finished.

"Any surfacing emotions?" the yellow pegasi cooed, trotting over and placing a wing on a shoulder. "That could be very telling to the kind of events."

"I really do wish there was something I could contribute," she moaned, leaning into the embrace. "I feel simply awful for not being able to remember a single thing!"

Somepony cleared their voice, causing heads to turn. "Beatin' yourself over somethin' you can't change won't do nothin'. Neither will belittin' yourself. Pausing, AppleJack met her friends eyes. "Or others."

All was quiet before Rarity allowed a chuckled. "Thank you, 'Jack. I-"

"Sweetie gave me that letter you were composin'. I read it before all this commotion. I think we can agree it'd be best to talk about it later. Just know I'm here for you Rare, nothin'll ever change that. An' if it was okay with you, I think I'd still like to be friends."

Rarity swallowed the lump in her throat, "Even in the face of the, adversity?"

"Come on Rarity! You know what the mare meant!" Pinkie groaned, then bashfully blushed as she played with her front hooves. "Sorry, that didn't help. I've just been waiting so long for this resolution you guys!"

The pink earth pony propelled herself into AppleJack, constricting her into a hug that simultaneously made her gasp and giggle. Twilight caught a notepad falling out of the farm pony's saddlebag, eyebrows rapidly ascending. The two locked eyes for a moment, then nodded.

"I um, had a written response to it actually." AppleJack explained, escaping the grip and taking it back.

"Would you like this to preface the future discussion?" Rarity tenderly asked, accepting the parchment the earth pony tore out.

"I think i'd be helpful," the earth pony pursed her lips, "Though I'd understand with a thonk to the noggin you won't in the talking or reading mood for a little bit."

"A.J.stop being so nervous to talk to her!" Fluttershy burst out, taking in a deep breath as her voice returned to its original cadence. "I know for a fact you both are afraid of what the other's thinking or will say, but you shouldn't. Right girls?"

A chorus of "mhm's" and "yeps" were sprinkled throughout the air.

"You know, I really think we should get you to PonyVille hospital." Rainbow Dash put flatly, "If there is something seriously wrong, nopony's doing you a favor just letting you sit around all day. Even though that is extremely nice, Twi. You've got to work on your stink eye stealth."

"Oh, yes. I do agree that is the best option. Before we go however, you must excuse me. I must use the little fillies room, I should only be a moment and will meet you all downstairs." Rarity said.

Speed walking upstairs, the unicorn glanced over her shoulder. Carefully planting her hooves against the crystals so the echo was subdued. Gritting her teeth and pinning back her ears, she wondered if she'd have enough time. Or if she even knew what she was doing for that matter. What she was going to say?

"Don't be daft," she murmured so low only she could hear. "You know what he meant."

Her muscles felt like frozen lead as she neared the doorway. Even from here the musky scent lingered. But there was something more to it this time. The smell of a new book, freshly cut timber and an alluring scent she only encountered in her favorite cave; fragrant earth mixed seasoned by the sea with metallic overtones. Her marehood somehow felt both light and heavy- blood rushed to her head yet there was a stillness in her body.

"S-Spike?" she waveringly conjured, peaking into the doorway.

"Rarity?" the drake piped up, sliding off a large bed and pacing over to her. "Something wrong?"

"I am afraid I don't have much time to say what I need dear. The girls are taking me to PonyVille Hospital soon and-"

"Rarity," the dragon sternly breathed, "As much as I'd like to hear what you have to say, if your well-being is at sake, I think this conversation can wait until later."

The unicorn froze, only able to stare at him. "Dear, are you worried I may bring something up that you don't want to hear?"

"I think everyone is afraid of that from anyone, but yes. I'm sorry, Rare, I haven't been feeling well lately and- think we could talk about this once I know you're okay? I'm worried about you, and what sounds like a head injury isn't something I want to mess around and wait with."

"So you were listening earlier," Rarity sighed.

"I'm sorry, Rare. I'm just uncomfortable knowing that I'd be getting in the way of your healing. And what if it is serious? You may not be able to be around for much more than the conversation. Please don't be upset. I will go up there with all of you and perhaps we could have this conversation once I know you're safe and well taken care of?"

"I suppose that's fair," she grumbled, plodding out.

Groaning, Rarity tossed on her side. The hospital bed rough in contrast to the puffy pillow that she sunk deeper to with any movement. Gold evening light bled into the room, causing her to squint and rub her eyes. Her hooves met the edge of grainy cotton of her head bandage, which uncomfortably tugged on her fur.

"It's only a precautionary measure for that slight scraping," she'd been told, "Memory problems are extremely common with head injuries. But we think it would be best if you stayed overnight for testing." Puffing hotly when she contemplated how much of this her insurance would cover while stretching.

"Phase one complete, I don't see why they had to give me something to make me so drowsy," she complained, gaze falling on the table beside her.

The sight instantly warmed her heart; balloon and flower bouquets, and two pies all accompanied by cards. Somepony had even been kind enough to bring her a brush and a book. She did a double take when she realized what book it was. Mare Amare: Onyx Sunrise.

Giddily gasping, she fetched it up, pausing before opening it.

"But WolfBane's the only pony who knows my affinity for this series- and the only one I know with a copy of this book?"

Carefully prying it open, a note fell out.

_{Rarity,

I hope by the time this reaches you, you're feeling much better. Everpony else isn't sure what happened, and neither am I. I apologize terribly if I did something wrong that justified leaving before I woke up. We both know I am not as well versed socially as you. I went out looking for you and was relieved when one of your friends told me that you were safe. If there's anything I can do, don't hesitate to ask. I remember you saying you'd like to borrow this, which you may. Or if I did something wrong, you can keep it, I know how hard they are to find.

WolfBane}

Rubbing the back of neck as she finished, she was unsure what to feel. Setting aside the book, she read a few of the cards. Most contained the usual "get well" semantics, but was surprised to find additions from the Cake's and many others from around town.

Puckering her lips once she found AppleJack's- a card with a note inside of it. Softly inhaling, she unfurled the parchment.

_{Rare,

I have had some time to consider what happened, and as much as it hurts, I think you're right. I got so caught up in my own loneliness, I convinced myself that my rashness was the right thing to do at the time. It's no news to you I can be proud. And when I was faced with a situation I wasn't strong enough to handle, it was easier to become bitter before I realized I needed to get better.

That's not to say what happened still doesn't hurt. It does. But I forgive you as I understand the impulsiveness behind the decision. That and I don't think Equestria can survive a rift between us- if that's a sign I don't know what is. Just because the both of us mad a mistake, it doesn't make either of us bad.

When you're ready, AppleJack}

Smiling, she set the note aside. Feeling a weight lifted off of her, she began to gripped a pie with her magic when a note fell out behind it. Puzzled, she pulled it up, immediately feeling light headed.

^{Dear Rarity,

I understand what you've heard pertaining to me and Sweetie's relationship is troubling. We have not slept together and I just don't know if I can. I know it is selfish, and I am not sure why I am this way. I accept I may have already broke Sweetie's heart with my actions recently. I'm unsure how to make up for what I did.

If you aren't too enraged at me, I could use some help. That or I won't bother either of you anymore, I understand why you'd be upset.

Regrettably, Spike the Dragon.}

Titling her head and a chill overcame her blood once more, she strained her brain to think of what event this pertained to. Unable to come up with anything, she scrunched up her muzzle in thought. Was the reason she went to the castle something to do with this?

Her ears pricked up upon hearing footsteps in the hallway. Gulping, she set the note aside, pulling up blankets over her and faking sleep. Her brain active as a swarming beehive.

Bane Rising

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Rarity curled tightly under blankets, forcing her eyes shut and attempting to calm the panic bubbling in her chest. But why was she so anxious? Her head pinged with dull pain, wringing out a small groan as she heard hooves clicking on the other side of the door.

Clenching her jaw, she kept her ears down to not give herself away. Pushing deeper into the pillow, she tried to relax her tense muscles as the door creaked open. The hoof-falls gliding across the floor with a anxious demure.

"Darn," a silvery voiced moaned, "Already asleep."

"It's alright, WolfBane, it would mean a lot to her just knowing you came to check up on her." Fluttershy breezily comforted.

"I suppose. I hope all of this isn't caused by something I've done." the stallion grumbled.

"As do I, but I doubt it. It sounded like something that happened while she was out. Rarity doesn't usually go to bed until late, so I am sure she just went on a walk to try and tire herself out."

"I am still culpable for what happened though. I should have stayed up a bit longer, this is my fault."

"You can't blame yourself for what happens to others," Fluttershy softly scolded, "Nothing good ever comes from that, does it?"

WolfBane sighed in reply, ruffling his wings and pacing out of the room. The yellow mare's gentle hoof-steps trotting after him. Kneading her forehead with the pillow, she forced her nerves to stop jolting and tried to relax. The mind, as she saw it, was useless if too stressed and upset. This didn't offer her much comfort as she mulled over recent events in her mind, a heaviness called guilt weighed on her, forcing her into a light slumber.

Rarity fluttered her eyelids open just a crack, surveying the empty dark room. Her chest heaved as she took in a cold breath, puffing it out of her mouth and attempting to sit up. Beads of moonlight danced below the drawn curtains, her gifts casting a shadow over her.

She stared out into the darkness for a few more moments, though unsure why. Nothing was keeping her awake, nor did anything catch her attention, so why was she so alert? Shaking her head, she pulled herself out of bed and walked over to the window.

Ebony clouds devoured the majority of stars, the few that were out flickered dimly. Restlessly, she propped her head against the sill, waiting for something. Watching as the soft breezed tugged crisp leaves from the trees and scattered black grass.

Am I waiting for a sign? A sign for what exactly? She asked herself in frustration after a few minutes passed.

"You've gotta be the sign!" she could hear all of her friends chanting in her head. Unable to see how to do this as well, it caused irritation rather than relief.

Grunting, she climbed back into bed. Chewing her lip and fussing with the blanket as she turned on her side.

Morning tests and breakfast hustled into a dreary afternoon filled with rain. Gripping Onyx Sunrise with her cerulean magic, she sipped tea as she waited for her results. After fervent attention directed at her the past day, she found comfort in her solitary company.

After a nurse dropped off her pre-lunch salad, she allowed herself to stare blankly at the wall as she ate, trying to discern what Spike's letter meant. Troubled by the unknown, she conjured up unsavory examples in her mind that painted either her sister of the drake in an unsavory light. Furrowing her brows as she tried to remember if she had been upset with either before?

Her stomach dropped upon re-digesting the words: We have not slept together and I just don't know if I can. I know it is selfish, and I am not sure why I am this way. I accept I may have already broke Sweetie's heart with my actions recently. I'm unsure how to make up for what I did.

A twinge of jealousy pricked her heart, but rage rapidly surmounted it at the thought that he'd hurt Sweetie Belle. On one hoof, it was fantastic he knew what he did was wrong. On the other, it made her blood boil knowing he was, in a nutshell, trying to get an older adult to clean up his mess.

"Hmpf, she and I deserve better than that," she scoffed into the spinach. Frowning, she still accepted her ignorance, and would try to gather more information before casting too much judgment. She rustled her shoulder to unburden them of tension to no avail. Sighing, she tried to distract herself with the book once more, when a light cough sounded at the door.

Lowering the novel, the doorway revealed a drenched WolfBane.

"Sorry, I meant to arrive earlier," he sputtered, "Should I-do you want me to go? I wouldn't want to impose of course, I-"

She chuckled, "You know as well as I that I wouldn't want that."

"But I don't, actually," he shyly started, "Look, I am sorry if I did anything that made you run. Have you remembered anything from the other night?"

"Vaguely, though not as to why I left," she couldn't help but lie as she stared into his concerned orange eyes, "But I remember very much wanting to stay."

"While that's a relief, that's still a lesser worry of mine. I just hope your'e okay is all."

"I'm sure I'll be fine, dear. The doctors don't think it's anything serious. And I don't feel dreadful, other than not being able to remember a few more things before last night of course. But it's only one-"

WolfBane's eyebrows jumped, looking as though his heart had been ripped from her chest, "It's gotten worse? Have you told anypony?"

"Not yet, I was only just realizing it."

His eyes raked her head, bottom lip trembling, "I really should let you get some rest, and shouldn't be overworking you with questions. Head injuries aren't something to be taken lightly. I could go and tell somepony if you'd like? And come back tomorrow?"

"That sounds lovely," she smiled. Feeling awful that him checking up on her didn't touch her more, and that she wanted him to leave just so she could get back to reading a book he had brought over for her.

"Oh, before I forget- oh never mind. Now's not a good time and I'm getting help." he stammered, shuffling towards the door.

Frowning, she knew she owed it to him to listen a little more, "No dear, it will be alright. I am here."

His gaze softened as he edged back into the room, staring irresolutely at the ground before trotting to her side.

"Well, I was hoping you'd come to see the Qurbatz migrate to their neighboring cave with me in the Crystal Empire. They are an endangered species, as you know, and even ponies in the Equestrian Wild Life Society have a hard time getting in, and most go their entire lives never glimpsing one. It-it's just something I have been imagining doing with you, you know? I'll understand if you aren't interested though, I'm sure I could give away my extra ticket to somepony else by next month."

Rarity's eyes widened, heart fluttering painfully in excitement and nervousness. "Wh-Why of course I'd love to darling! I can't believe it! H-How didn't you stumble across this opportunity, perchance?"

"Oh, you know," he tiredly sighed, "Working and researching all day, writing a thousand papers and publishing one. Then you're told your research on crystallized flowers is ground breaking and they want to showcase your work in the Empire Statue of Notoriety."

"But, your not excited?" Rarity asked, nudging his shoulder sympathetically.

He jolted upright in surprise at her touch, but then leaned in to welcome it. "Of course I am. That just could mean they would want me to move there, since that wasn't it. They want to place me on as a botanical researcher there. Which would be a grueling workload and...well I don't know how often I could see you. And I wouldn't be nearby in case anything happened, or if you needed me."

"Now 'Bane," she cooed, "What did Asterllius tell Waterfall Pearls when they parted? Though our hearts shall be far away from another, they shan't be any less intertwined and our bond shall only strengthen by the mile."

WolfBane weakly smiled at her, "Asterllius betrayed her though, didn't he?"

"He did? I haven't gotten there yet!" she hissed, playfully pushing him.

"Alright! Alright! Sorry! I'll go and let you see his downfall!" he called as he scurried out of the room, "But also, I'd keep an eye out on Monkshood, her new love interest. It is his rising."

Intoxicating Scales

by Forthvain Chrysantox

Boiling Fantasy

Lust Among Apples

Wolf de Flora

Spa Seed

Tea Served With Trauma

Drake Sabitoire

The Applesauce Thickens

Kaleidoscopic

Volume II: Attracting a Mate

First Move

Resolution faux Resolution

Bane Rising