> You Don’t Have To Be Shy With Me
>  by Stormbringer
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> CHAPTER ONE: A Nice Dinner
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Twilight was studying in the castle’s library.  Spike was spending several moons in the Dragon Lands at the behest of Dragon Lord Ember.  Twilight was thinking that the Dragon Lord might be starting to have a ‘thing’ for her #1 assistant, much to Rarity’s relief. Rarity had been dreading that one day, and soon, she’d have to break the little dragon’s heart when she’d have to confess that she saw him only as perhaps a funny friend or little brother…  At best.
Starlight Glimmer and Trixie had taken a holiday as guests at ‘Our Town’.  Plus the School of Friendship was on a 3 moon summer break.
So the silence and solitude Twilight was experiencing was nice, but she did have to make sure it didn’t turn her back into a recluse.  Hardly a trait for the Princess of Friendship.
Twilight’s stomach started to rumble.  Before Ponyville, Twilight would eat when she thought about it.  But now, being around others, she’d settled into routines of mealtimes.  
Twilight closed her book and was about to get up when she heard a knock at the front door.

Twilight flew to the doors and opened them, there stood Fluttershy with Owlowiscious on her back. Fluttershy had taken the bird to groom and now she was returning with him.  
“Hello Fluttershy,” said Twilight smiling at her friend, “and hello Owlowiscious, you look great.”
The owl hooted happily at his friend and then flew in and down the hall and to his perch in the library.
“Thank you for bringing Owlowiscious home,” said Twilight, “how much do I owe you?”
“Nothing, Twilight,” said Fluttershy, “you know that I never charge my friends.”
“But Fluttershy, this is your living, I can’t just take advantage of you that way.”
“It really is alright, Twilight.  Just to make my friends happy is enough.”
Twilight and Fluttershy hugged.  Twilight then had an idea.
“Have you eaten dinner yet?” asked Twilight.
“No, I was going to go home and make a daisy sandwich and have some hay fries.”
“I tell you what,” said Twilight, “I was about to go and get something to eat, why don’t you let me buy you dinner?”
“I couldn’t let you, Twilight.”
“Yes you can, Fluttershy.  And yes you will.  Don’t make me make it a Royal Command!”
“Okay,” said Fluttershy with a little snicker, “if you insist, Your Highness.”

Twilight exited and joined Fluttershy.  They walked the lane into Ponyville.  At the main street, Fluttershy turned right but Twilight started to turn left.

“Where’re you going, Fluttershy,” asked Twilight.
“The Hay Burger is this way.”
“The Hay Burger is alright if I’m meeting the CMC for lunch,” said Twilight.  “Chez Pony is this way.”
“Chez Pony?” asked Fluttershy, “I can’t let you buy me a meal there, it’s expensive.”
“Let me worry about that,” said Twilight.  “Friday night’s special is always Eggplant Parmesan.  I don’t like to miss it, when I go out on Fridays.”

Fluttershy was about to protest, but the Eggplant Parmesan sounded really good compared to the daisy sandwich she planned to fix at home.  And she was really happy inside that she was going to spend some one-on-one time with Twilight.

“Okay Twilight,” said Fluttershy, working up a blushing smile.

When they arrived at the restaurant, there were ponies waiting to be seated.  But when the maître d’ saw Twilight he motioned her forward.

“Your favorite table is open for you, princess.”
“Thank you, sir,” said Twilight, levitating several bits to the head waiter.

Twilight didn’t like the special treatment she’d received with her title.  She really didn’t see herself as any better than anypony else.  But she was hungry and perhaps it was nice to have Fluttershy experience a little special treatment.  The yellow Pegasus worked hard to please her friends, she needed somepony to try and please her.

The meal was first rate, the wine was excellent.  Fluttershy said that Twilight had spent too many bits on the meal so she’d skip dessert, but Twilight talked her into sharing a slice of cheesecake with her.  It felt a little more familiar with each other, and yes, slightly romantic. Especially with Twilight levitating the fork to Fluttershy and they were using the same fork.  Apparently, it didn’t bother Fluttershy at all.

Both mares liked the feeling.

After the meal, Twilight walked with Fluttershy to her home.  But there was a little pub on the way and Twilight said they had to stop and have a drink.  They’d already consumed two bottles of wine at dinner, so Fluttershy was less inclined to try to resist Twilight spending more bits on herself.  
They sat at a small table and drank and talked.  Twilight was able to get Fluttershy to play a couple games of pool with her.  Twilight was quite good, being that she was well versed in geometry.  But Fluttershy appeared to be a natural and won every game.

Twilight noticed as the evening wore on, that Fluttershy was getting quite chatty.  The wine was really loosening her up.  As they were walking to Fluttershy’s cottage, Twilight noticed her friend was starting to be unsteady on her hooves. Twilight herself was starting to feel a bit woozy herself.

At Fluttershy’s door, Twilight was telling her friend ‘goodbye’ but Fluttershy insisted that Twilight come in and have one more drink.

“I’d love to Fluttershy,” said Twilight, “but it’s late.  Are you sure?”
“Do you want me to use The Stare on you?” asked Fluttershy snickering.
“Okay,” said Twilight, chuckling, “one more.”

Twilight sat on Fluttershy’s couch and waited as Fluttershy went and retrieved some wine. The bottle Fluttershy brought back was a wine Twilight had given her.  It was from Celestia’s cellars.  Alicorns have a higher tolerance of alcohol than other ponies and so enjoyed a wine with a higher alcohol content.

They sat and talked and laughed.  Fluttershy related some hijinks Discord would do at their tea parties.  Twilight observed as the alcohol worked, Fluttershy was speaking at a volume that was almost unlike herself.  Also, not long after they had sat down, Fluttershy would often place her hoof on Twilight’s foreleg or her lap, but she’d move it to take another drink of wine.
Twilight noticed that it was getting quite late so she made mention that she was going to have to go.  The look on Fluttershy’s face changed and the smile she’d been wearing the last several hours started to fade.

“Twilight,” said Fluttershy, becoming timid, but taking Twilight’s hoof again, “may I ask a personal question?”
“Fluttershy, you can always ask me anything.”
“Thank you Twilight.  I want you to know that I’ve never had a more fun evening ever than I’ve had with you tonight.”
“I had a wonderful time as well.  So what’s your question,” asked Twilight.
“If it wouldn’t bother you, do you think that this evening might be considered a date?” asked the yellow Pegasus, not quite looking into Twilight’s eyes.
“I think we can call it a date,” said Twilight smiling.  “If you’re not adverse to dating another girl.”
“I don’t have any problem with that,” said Fluttershy, looking at Twilight’s eyes and smiling larger but blushing brighter.   Then Fluttershy took another big drink of wine.  
“Then I hope you won’t mind.”  

Fluttershy scooted closer to Twilight and put a wing around Twilight’s neck and kissed her deeply.  Twilight was a tad taken aback, but she embraced Fluttershy and continued the kiss. There was a bit of ‘heavy petting’. They’d kiss a while, then drink a bit more wine, talk and giggle.  Neither Twilight or Fluttershy ever thought that they’d be doing this with their friend. A joy was being released that they’d never felt before.

Unfortunately for both mares, the evening became hazy.  Only once did Twilight notice that they’d finished a fourth bottle of wine since they’d started kissing.  

Neither mare remembered when everything went black.





Twilight was dreaming that she was in a field of yellow wheat.  The stalks were so soft and pleasing to feel against her hooves, body and face.  There were two hills that Twilight found great pleasure in kissing, licking and even sucking on.  It was to make a mark claiming these were hers alone.  Twilight then found a orchid in the middle of the field, between two paths that went off at an angle.  The orchid was warm and moist.  She didn’t know why, but after she’d smelled it, she was licking it deeply.  It brought great joy to Twilight and the orchid.
She was warm and happy, perhaps happier than she’d ever felt.  The orchid became Fluttershy.  They were surrounded by a swarm of pink butterflies.  They embraced and were kissing deeply and exploring the other as they lay there on the ground. 

Things faded and Twilight opened her eyes.






Fluttershy was dreaming that she was back in flight school.  There were the bullies, and as always, belittling her and/or Rainbow and making fun of anything they did.  Right now they were ganging up on Rainbow Dash.  The odd thing was. they were all adults now.

“Look out everypony,” said Dumb-Bell, “there’s Rainbow Crash.  Get away from her or you might catch her queer cooties!”

“I wouldn’t talk about queer cooties if I were you,” said Fluttershy, not believing she was speaking up against the bully boys.

“Keep out of this Klutzershy,” said Dumb-Bell, “if you know what’s good for you!”

Fluttershy was remembering something she’d once observed but at the time, was afraid to tell anypony.
“Or what?” said Fluttershy advancing, seeing the bully boys looking uncertain and backing away. “Or somepony might tell everypony what I saw behind the bleachers after class that one time?

Was that just leap-frog, Hoops was playing with you?  Or was it what it looked like?”

Dumb-bell was turning pale, Hoops looked like he was going to cry.  Score looked shocked at his friends.

“Oh sick!” said Score flying off.

“Wait!” said Dumb-Bell to his friend, “I can explain.”

“You just wait,” said Hoops, “I’ll get you for this!”

“I don’t think so,” said Fluttershy, “especially since everypony will know what you and your friends are really like.”

“Well, I’ll just fix this now!” said Hoops, “I’ll shut you up permanently!” 

The large pony flew at the fillies, even Rainbow was flinching.  But suddenly he was frozen midair in a purple aura.

“I really think you should leave ponies alone,” said a voice.

Everypony looked and it was Princess Twilight Sparkle.

“Princess!” said Hoops.  “you really didn’t think I was going to hurt anypony, did you?”

“I know what you were going to do,” said Twilight, a fierce look appeared on her face.

“I’m sorry, my friends and I won’t bother them again.”  Said the stallion, so afraid that he was wetting himself.

“No, you won’t,” said Twilight, “but if you do, I’ll see to it that I make yours and your friends’ forwarding address the Everfree Forest, PERMANENTLY!  
Or perhaps I can have Celestia send you to the moon.  And not being Alicorns, it may be a tad uncomfortable with the cold and airlessness.”

The aura dissipated and Hoops flew off at his top speed, crying.

“Way to go Fluttershy!” said Rainbow.

“I knew you had it in you,” said Twilight. “I’m so proud of you.”

Fluttershy could tell that there was more than pride being expressed.  They embraced, there a lot of warmth.  She was carried back to Twilight’s castle where Twilight poured out more passion than Fluttershy ever knew existed.

Fluttershy opened her eyes.





The two mares opened their eyes at the same time.  They both smiled at the beautiful face before them.


> CHAPTER TWO: What Now?
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Twilight’s first reaction was that she couldn’t think of any eyes she’d ever seen that were more beautiful.

Fluttershy thought that Twilight’s face was so cute that she could just squeal.

They drew the other close and continued the deep kissing from the previous evening.  But then it hit both at the same time and the look of surprise and confusion was mirrored on the other’s face.  
Most of all, the warmth and dampness of their groins couldn’t be ignored.  Along with a feeling that they’d discover was called ‘afterglow’.  Something they’d only read about before.

They both realized that they were in Fluttershy’s bed, holding the other quite closely. They sat up and separated.

“Uh…  Good morning, Fluttershy,” stammered Twilight trying to think this out.  She’d no memory of getting into the bed with Fluttershy or what might have went on there.
“G… Good morning,” said Fluttershy, in a barely audible voice.  She too had no idea of the happenings in her bedroom either.

“I… 
Uh… 
Have to get to the castle,” said Twilight, trying to think what to say and not panic.  “Mayor Mare is coming by for a meeting this morning.”

“Applejack is bringing Winona by for a bath and brushing, I guess I need to get ready for that.” Said Fluttershy, not sure what to say as well.

The two got out of bed and went down to the first floor and to the front door.  Twilight opened the door to leave.

“Twilight, wait please,” said Fluttershy reaching out a forehoof to Twilight’s foreleg. “Before you go, Twilight, were we really kissing, not just this morning but last night as well?”
“Yes,” said Twilight nervously.

“Did we…  
Do anything else… 
In the bed?” Asked the Pegasus.

“Honestly, Fluttershy,” said Twilight, “I have no memory of going to bed with you.”
“Me either,” said Fluttershy.  “I think we, for the time being, just consider that we were tired and slept in the same bed.  Nothing else… 

Don’t you?”

Twilight smiled at the logic and felt a bit of relief and a strange touch of disappointment. It reflected on Fluttershy’s face as well.
“That sounds good to me,” said Twilight.

The two smiled and Twilight started to leave, again, Fluttershy stopped her friend again.

“Twilight, are you regretting kissing me?” asked the Pegasus.
“No,” said Twilight working up a smile at that memory, “not at all.  I’m finding that I’m regretting not doing it sooner.”
“Good, me too,” said Fluttershy smiling a smile the same smile Twilight was showing.  “Then I’ll see you later?”
“I would really like that,” said Twilight still standing in Fluttershy’s open door.  “Can you drop by the castle later?  For dinner perhaps.”
Fluttershy smiled a little blushing smile and nodded affirmative.
Twilight and Fluttershy spontaneously leaned into the other and kissed a respectable ‘goodbye kiss’.  The kiss broke and the two smiled.
Twilight trotted off toward town, passing AJ and Winona coming down Fluttershy’s path.  
“Hey AJ,” said Twilight.
“Morning, Sugar Cube,” said AJ a little confused after seeing Twilight kiss Fluttershy and leaving her cottage this early in the morning.
Fluttershy just leaned against the doorframe with a dreamy look in her eyes.  Twilight’s flanks never looked so good as at this moment. She was so lost in thought that she didn’t notice Applejack standing right in front of her.  
Applejack saw the look on Fluttershy’s face, looking back at Twilight who had a happy spring to her trot.

‘Ho Doggies!’ thought the cowpony, figuring what had happened.  She was happy for her friends, ‘way to go, Sugar Cubes!’

“Uh… Fluttershy?” said AJ.

Fluttershy came out of her haze. 

“Oh, hello Applejack,” said Fluttershy, “come in please.”

Applejack came in and had a short conversation about Winona.  Then she turned to leave but she stopped.  

She had to ask.

“Fluttershy,” said AJ choosing her words carefully, “if’n it ain’t none o’ my business, tell me. But is there somethin’ ‘tween ya an’ Twi?”
“Applejack,” said Fluttershy, “I don’t know yet.  But it just might be possible that there’s something starting.  

At least I’m hoping so.”

“Well Ah’m happy fer both of yen’s if’n there is,” said Applejack.  “But be careful Fluttershy.  There’s still a mess o’ ponies out there that don’t like mare-lovers, even here in Ponyville.  Why? Ah ain’t got no idea.  We all know there ain’t ‘nough stallions to go ‘round.  
And ya can take my word fer it, ya ain’t gotta be a mare-lover to enjoy the charms and company of another mare. (AJ winked, Fluttershy understood what was being hinted at.)
Ah guess they think that we mares that can’t find a feller have to live without love.  But Ah say buck ’em, but that’s me.  
Oh!  Sorry Fluttershy, Ah didn’t mean to talk like that in front o’ ya.”
“That’s okay,” said Fluttershy snickering, “I say buck ‘em too.”
The two friends started to laugh.



Twilight could hardly keep focused on business with Mayor Mare.  Twilight caught herself more than once about to call the Mayor; Fluttershy.
She’d listen, but her mouth was still feeling the kisses she could remember from last night and this morning.

After the meeting, Twilight went to seek out the one pony that might be able to help answer some questions.  Twilight was very green at affection and relationships.  


Rarity opened the door.  There stood Twilight with an odd look.
“Come in Darling,” said Rarity.  “You looked worried, what’s wrong?”
“Nothing wrong, Rare,” said Twilight, coming into the boutique, “I guess I’m just a bit distracted.”
“Well, let me get us some tea, and you can tell me what’s got you so distracted.”

Rarity sat while Twilight went over the prior evening’s events from the time Fluttershy dropped off Owlowiscious to the goodbye kiss this morning.  And how hard it was to keep her mind on business with the mayor and not think of the shy Pegasus.
When Twilight finished, Rarity sat quiet for a moment, then;

“That sounds nice and innocent enough, Twilight.  So what’s the problem?”
“I…  I don’t know if I had sex with Fluttershy.”
“And?” asked Rarity with a raised eyebrow.
“And I’m confused. If we did, what do I do?”
“Well Darling,” said Rarity, hiding amusement at Twilight’s naïveté, “you’re just going to have to do the ‘right thing’ and marry her.”
“Do you really think so?” said Twilight taking Rarity seriously.  There was a beautiful vision of Fluttershy in a pure white dress in her mind.
“No!” said the white Unicorn laughing at Twilight’s reaction.  “Twilight, I know you were raised a little more traditionally by Princess Celestia.  But really, if you and Fluttershy did have sex, then that would mean only one thing…”
“And what’s that?” asked Twilight. 

“That the two of you had sex.  

Believe me, there are ponies to whom sex is just recreation.  I’m not saying that sex isn’t something special, with that special somepony.  And I don’t discount romantic relations and cultivating long term intimacy.
But to have a friendly ‘role in the hay,’ even with a close friend, is nothing to panic about. 
And let’s face it. Fluttershy is a very good looking mare. If the right situation had ever presented itself, I wouldn’t have been opposed to having my tongue in her marehood.”
“I didn’t know you’re a mare-lover.”
“I’m not darling,” said Rarity.  “Friends are friends, love is love, sex is sex.  
Labels are what’s artificial, they keep ponies separated.  Yes, I’ve had relations with stallions in the past, but the same with mares. 
And if it’s with a friend, the more the better.  
Let’s say for my part, I occasionally know the athletic and recreational pleasures of Rainbow Dash.  Not to mention the ‘down home’ hospitality of Applejack.”
“I never knew,” said Twilight looking surprised and sounding slighted,  “I wonder why nopony has ever approached me?” 
“You’ve never asked, Darling.  But more importantly, you’ve never appeared interested.  We do respect that choice and we’ll never push it on anypony.  Even a pony with very cute flanks (Rarity winked, Twilight blushed).”
“And that’s all it takes?  I always assumed that there was dating, hanging out and allowing affection to grow. Not just; ‘hey! ya wanna do it’?”
“It isn’t quite that simple.  But think about it.  It was simple enough for you and Fluttershy to get horse-apple faced and do the nasty.  
But truthfully, and don’t tell anypony, but I think Pinkie Pie has wanted the situation to happen with you.  You’re a cute mare after all.”
“Wow,” said Twilight, thoughtfully, “not that I was looking for it,… 

But wow!  

I wonder why I’ve never heard of any of this.”
“Don’t think of your friends as a bunch of whores or sluts.  We love our friends.  You’ve seen the depth.  I don’t think any one of us would think twice about giving their life for the others. That’s a bond of love and respect beyond ‘just physical’.  
And Twilight Darling, I’m lady enough to not ‘kiss and tell’.  And our friends respect all of our group and know not to brag about such things.  And you know how hard that might be for Rainbow Dash.” 
Both mares giggled at that.
“As to Fluttershy,” continued Rarity, “I’ll admit to a certain jealousy of her.  I work hard to keep up my looks.  But she just seems to exude an inner and outer beauty that’s impossible to copy.  She’s so effortlessly ladylike that I sometimes want to smack the horse-apples out of her!”
Twilight was looking shocked at this.
“Twilight Darling,” said Rarity thinking about what that just sounded like.  “I’m not serious about that.  I love Fluttershy and admire her graceful beauty.  I think it’s that innate innocence she has.”
“So what do I do, Rare?”
“Let me ask you this,  did you enjoy kissing Fluttershy?”
Twilight nodded.
“Is it something you’d want to do again?”
“Yes,” said Twilight.
“Is that a yes; ‘if it happens again, it happens’.  Or is it a; ‘Sorry Rarity, I need to go kiss Fluttershy now’?”
“More the second than the first.”
“Does that feel wrong?”
“No Rare,” said Twilight, “it really doesn’t.”
“Then that’s your answer.”
“But what about my parents?” asked Twilight.
Rarity understood what might be the real issue with Twilight’s trepidation.
“What about your parents, Darling?”
Twilight was quiet for a moment.
“I’ve never heard my parents say anything about mare-lovers, good or bad.”
“Are you a mare-lover?” asked Rarity.
“I don’t know,” said Twilight, “I know that I’ve never been attracted to mares.  But I could say the same with stallions.”
“Well, do you love Fluttershy?”
“I don’t know,” said Twilight, “I really, really like her. I think with what’s happened, I think I could see a deeper relationship with her.  
I know that I’ve felt some attraction to her for a while now, but I never tried to figure how much or how deep.

I don’t know if I love Fluttershy… 

But I think I could.”


Rarity hugged Twilight.  Rarity could feel some tears against her coat.
“I’m so confused Rare,” said Twilight.  “I want to be true to my heart, but I don’t want to lose my family’s love.”
“So you plan on leaving Friendship Castle and moving back in with your parents?”
Twilight looked confused.
“No, why do you ask?”
“Well, if you aren’t wanting to move home, then why would you be bothered with what they might think about you and your marefriend?  (Twilight’s face lit up at the term marefriend).

You are a princess Twilight!  

For Celestia’s sake, you’re the master of your life.  As I’ve tried to tell you before, embrace that part of your life!  

Be a princess! 

Be bold!  

Live the way you think the Princess of Friendship should live!  

And if your family loves you, then they’ll accept you and any pony you’re close to.”
Twilight smiled and hugged Rarity again.

“Thank you Rare,” said Twilight, “I knew you were the right pony to go to.”
“Was there ever any doubt?”
The two friends laughed and Twilight left to go back to the castle.
> CHAPTER THREE: In The Light Of Day
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Twilight sat on the balcony of her bedroom.  Usually she’d read in the library when she was alone.  But right now, her books had failed her and she couldn’t find any peace of mind between their pages.  She sat back on her haunches and was looking out toward the Everfree Forest.  
She knew why she was looking in that direction, trying to believe that this really wasn’t taking over all her thoughts.  But when she closed her eyes, all she could see is the face she woke up to this morning.


Fluttershy was a little tired.  After she’d groomed Winona, she took care of her other chores and responsibilities. She felt that she needed a bit of rest due to what must’ve been a long night, so she decided to take a nap before going to see Twilight.
As Fluttershy lay down, she lay on her back looking at the ceiling.  As she did, the sight of the ceiling triggered thoughts from last night of looking at that same ceiling.  She could feel the passionate kisses shared with Twilight.  Twilight then kissing down her neck, down her belly to her breasts.
 





The haze cleared and Fluttershy started to remember the previous evening… 
 
“Oh Twilight! I’ve never felt anything this good in my life!”
Twilight stopped what she was doing long enough to respond.
“Me neither, Butterfly.”
Fluttershy giggled at the pet name, Twilight had been calling her this since just before the two stumbled up the stair; part flying, part walking, part kissing.
Twilight returned to Fluttershy’s breasts.
“Butterfly, I think big boobs are so very sexy” Said Twilight, putting her muzzle between Fluttershy’s breasts and blew a raspberry.  Fluttershy laughed at the silly situation and at the feeling that tickled her.  Never had she ever thought that Twilight would be so playful!  
“I just want to kiss them all night!” continued Twilight
“Well, be careful, you don’t want to leave a hickey!”
“You mean like this one?” ask Twilight as she attacked the side of one of the breasts.
“Twilight!” giggled Fluttershy.
“Just wanted you to have something to remember this by!”
Twilight then continued down to Fluttershy’s marehood.  It was her first time and the feeling was beyond awesome.  
After the orgasm, Twilight returned to kissing Fluttershy.  Then Fluttershy returned the favor including her own hickey.
Afterwards, the two just kissed until they fell asleep in each other’s forelegs.





Back in the now… 

Fluttershy could feel herself blush and sat up on the bed.  She looked down at herself and spread her hind legs so she could see her breasts better.  Using her left forehoof, she moved the right breast so she could see the side.  There was the red, almost circular area where Twilight had sucked hard on it.
Fluttershy didn’t realize she was smiling so hard at the sight.  Proof that she and Twilight had shared their virginity with each other. 
“I think it’s time to go see Twilight.” Said Fluttershy.


As Twilight looked out to the Everfree Forest, she saw a Pegasus flying her direction.  As they got closer she could tell it was Fluttershy, and she was flying a quick pace, for Fluttershy.  Twilight smiled.

Soon the yellow Pegasus landed right in front of Twilight.  Without anything being said, Twilight and Fluttershy threw themselves at each other and passionately kissed.
“Hello, Fluttershy,” said Twilight looking into the Pegasus’s eyes.
“Twilight,” said Fluttershy giving Twilight a simple kiss. “Can we go in and talk, not in your bedroom?  At least for now.”
“Okay,” said Twilight, wondering why the condition.

In the library Fluttershy was sitting on a sofa waiting for Twilight.  Twilight came in levitating a tea service tray.  She also moved a coffee table in front of the couch. As the tea was set down, Twilight started to move a chair over.
“No Twilight,” said Fluttershy patting the cushion beside herself, “please sit with me.”
Twilight smiled and sat close to Fluttershy.
“What’s up?” said Twilight.
Fluttershy took Twilight’s hoof and looked into her eyes.
“Have you remembered anything from last night?”
“No Fluttershy,” said Twilight, “I really haven’t tried to think about that.  To tell the truth, I’m a little afraid to do so.  But I’ve been thinking about us and where this might be going.  In fact, I think I like where this might go.”
Fluttershy smiled at this.  The two leaned over and kissed a fairly passionate kiss.
“I’ve remembered,” said Fluttershy.  Twilight looked concerned.
“May I touch you…
Very personally,” asked Fluttershy, “please?”

Twilight nodded.

Fluttershy slid closer to Twilight, so close there wasn’t any space between them.  Then she reached over to between Twilight’s hind legs. Twilight let her legs spread to allow Fluttershy’s hoof to touch her breasts.  To tell the truth it felt quite nice.  Fluttershy moved Twilight’s right breast to one side and Twilight saw it; Fluttershy’s hickey.  Then she exposed her own hickey, Twilight was about to drool.
“Does ‘Butterfly’ mean anything to you?” asked Fluttershy.
Twilight’s face went temporarily blank.

All of the sudden, the memory of the previous night poured in.  

The kissing… 

The passion… 

The laughs…  

The sex.


Twilight looked at Fluttershy who was smiling (and still caressing her breast).  Twilight smiled as well.  Fluttershy was fighting the urge to indulge herself with the breasts she was fondling.  She was wanting to go back to the kissing and suckling she remembered from the previous night.

“Yes it does… Butterfly,” said Twilight, embracing Fluttershy.  Twilight was also wanting Fluttershy to do more than just caressing her breasts.

The two kissed heavily for some time.  There was much breast rubbing, it was getting both mares hot!  Then they broke the kiss.

“What do we do now?” asked Fluttershy, 
Twilight snickered.
“Well, according to Rarity,” said Twilight, “we have to do the ‘right thing’ and get married.”
Fluttershy looked amused but shocked.  Then the two broke down laughing.
“Butterfly, honey,” said Twilight, taking Fluttershy’s hoof, “what we do is enjoy each other’s company.  See where our relationship goes from here.  Just enjoy, for now, being marefriends.”
“Oh Twilight!” said Fluttershy, “I do want to be your marefriend!”
“And I, yours,” answered Twilight.
The two resumed kissing for some time.  
“Twilight, may I ask a personal question?”
“Butterfly, we’ve had sex.  I don’t know how we could ever be more personal.” Said Twilight, Fluttershy smiled then Twilight kissed her a substantial kiss.
“Twilight,” said Fluttershy very timidly, “was I your first?”
“Butterfly,” said Twilight holding Fluttershy’s hoof and looking deep into her eyes. “Yes, you were my first.  I’m happy about that, but I wish I remembered more of it.  What about you?”
Fluttershy giggled and blushed even more.
“Twilight, not only were the first pony I’ve ever had sex with, but you’re the first pony I ever kissed.  And I want you to know, I’m happy with that.”
“Me too,” said Twilight pulling Fluttershy close and giving a deep and passionate kiss.

Eventually they broke the kiss and the two went to Twilight’s kitchen to make supper.
Soon the two were finishing up a wonderful salad and some nice wine.

“Twilight,” said Fluttershy, “we really need to talk about where we go from here.”
“I agree,” said Twilight, “we’ve been good friends so far.  That part doesn’t need to change.  However, I don’t think we could ever go back to being just friends.  We’ve shared an affection and intimacy over and above, just friends.  I’m not saying that we need to move in together this soon.  And we don’t need to have sex all the time.  It wouldn’t be special then.  Although I wouldn’t mind remembering what I was doing next time, if there is a next time.”
“There most certainly will be a next time,” said Fluttershy, “if that’s agreeable with you.”
A kiss was Twilight’s response.  
“Let’s clean up and we can go for an evening walk,” said Twilight.  “I’ll see you safely home.”

Later Twilight and Fluttershy were walking in the cool evening air, they didn’t notice the cool because they were walking so close their sides and flanks were touching.
“Butterfly,” said Twilight, enjoying the pet name as well.  “Rainbow gave me some tickets to the Wonderbolt air show for tomorrow. If you’re free, I’d really like it if you’d go with me to Cloudsdale.”
“Twilight…” started Fluttershy.
“How about just Twi, it sounds more familiar.”
“You sure you don’t want to be called, Your Highness?”
“Do that and see if you get any kisses anytime soon!”
“You’d do that, Your Highness?” giggled Fluttershy, giving a mock bow.  
Twilight stopped right there in the middle of Ponyville and kissed Fluttershy.
“What do you think?” said Twilight.
“I think that I’m really liking this.” Said Fluttershy, kissing Twilight again.
As they kissed there was a voice.
“Woo-Hoo!  Go Twilight!  Go Fluttershy!”
They looked and saw Lyra Heartstrings looking at them and standing on her hind legs, forelegs in the air, cheering them.  Sweetie Drops was facehoofing at her marefriend’s actions.
But all the ponies laughed as Twilight and Fluttershy walked on.  

Later at the door to Fluttershy’s cabin, Twilight and Fluttershy were kissing.

“Are you sure you don’t want to come in,” asked Fluttershy,
“Honestly, Butterfly,” said Twilight with a smile, “after us fondling each other, I’m so tempted to.  But I want to make love to you as an action we work ourselves up to, not just jump in the sack because you touched my tits! (Both mares giggled)  But as we were saying, let’s not rush this.  
Can I come by in the morning to pick you up?  The show isn’t until the evening, but it might be nice to have breakfast and a day in Cloudsdale.  I haven’t been there much.  Perhaps we can find someplace to spend the night…  

Together.”

“Twi,” said Fluttershy, “that sounds nice.  I can’t wait.”
“Me either.”
The two kissed again deeply, embracing tightly. Then broke the kiss and looked deep into the other’s eyes.
“You sure you don’t want to come in?”
“I’m sure I do want to, but I’m sure we shouldn’t at this time.”
“Then get your flanks out of here before I use the Stare and drag you in!” Laughed Fluttershy and giving a quick kiss.
“Until tomorrow,” said Twilight giving a quick kiss and taking to the air.
Fluttershy smiled as she watched Twilight flying back to town.

“My marefriend,” sighed Fluttershy smiling, then turning and going in.
> CHAPTER FOUR: Just Being Together
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Fluttershy had gotten up early to make sure all her little friends were fed and would be okay until she came home.  She was going to spend the night in Cloudsdale so she asked Harry to keep an eye out on everypony and make sure they were all fed and that Angel didn’t get into much mischief.  The large brown bear was about the only one of Fluttershy’s animal friends that Angel wouldn’t try to get away with too much. 

Fluttershy was sitting at her vanity, her mane being brushed by angel and a couple of bluebirds.  Suddenly there was a knock at the door.  Her heart skipped a beat and she smiled at the thought that Twilight was here.  As she got up to answer it, she heard the door open and then a squeal.


Twilight was at Fluttershy’s door.  She really couldn’t wait to be with her new marefriend.  She’d hardly slept last night, now able to remember the night before and was more than a little sorry she didn’t go in with Fluttershy last evening.

‘If this is real,’ thought Twilight, ‘then there’s no need to rush it.  But by Celestia, I really  want to be with her.  Not just sex, it’s just so nice to feel her next to me.’

Twilight knocked and the door was quickly opened.  There stood the very large brown bear friend of Fluttershy’s. 

“Harry, right?” Twilight asked.  

Before she could say anything else, the bear grabbed her and commenced to hug her warmly, tight but warmly.  Twilight let out an involuntary squeal.

“Harry was so happy to hear about us, Twi,” said Fluttershy walking up.  “I was relieved, he can be quite protective.”
“I can well imagine” said Twilight trying to catch her breath.  “Just think what could happen if he didn’t approve.” 

Fluttershy giggled and came up to Twilight and kissed her deeply.  Harry let out a happy growl of approval.  
“Oh, and Twilight, this was the last time you knock on my door.  We’re marefriends, you’re most certainly welcome to come in anytime.

Okay Harry,” said Fluttershy, “keep an eye out for everypony and I’ll bring you back a present.”
Harry smiled and waved as Twilight and Fluttershy took to the sky.

Fluttershy was happy that Twilight wasn’t as aggressive at flight as Rainbow Dash.  She had no trouble keeping up.  Twilight really did her best to make sure she didn’t get ahead of her marefriend.
Twilight had never had a more enjoyable flight as she was having now.  The sight of Fluttershy at her side, who was glancing at herself while Twilight would look at her.  The sight of those big turquoise eyes warmed her heart.  She was sure that her own smile was as large as the one Fluttershy was displaying. 
Cloudsdale was coming into sight.  Twilight spoke to Fluttershy:
“You know Cloudsdale, Butterfly.  Where’s a good place for breakfast?”
“Follow me,” said Fluttershy as she zeroed in on the business section of the airborne city.

They soon landed in front of a non-descript diner.  They went in and had a seat at a table.  They sat next to the other and held hooves.

“Fluttershy,” said an older Pegasus mare walking up to the table.  She had on an apron with a nametag and was holding an order pad under her left wing.  “Haven’t seen you in a while.  How’s your family?”
“They’re good, Robin Song,” said Fluttershy, “Zephyr finally found a job in Stratusberg so mom and dad have him out of their manes and are enjoying their retirement.”
“That’s great! And who’s your friend?”
“This is my marefriend, Twilight Sparkle.” Said Fluttershy kissing Twilight’s hoof.
Robin Song noticed the horn and the wings.
“Is that Princess Twilight Sparkle?  The Princess of Friendship?  Welcome, Your Highness!”
The waitress bowed as small bow, Twilight noticed several of the patrons were looking in her direction and whispering.
“Just Twilight is fine,” said Twilight. “I’m just a pony, no need to bow or call me princess.”
“Well Fluttershy,” said Robin Song, “looks like you caught yourself a live one!”
They all chuckled. Twilight and Fluttershy ordered and were not really bothered other than an occasional patron coming in and noticing an Alicorn there.

After eating, the marefriends wandered about Cloudsdale until they came upon a  modest house.
“This is where I grew up, would you like to see?”
“I would, my Butterfly,” said Twilight, Fluttershy giggled.  

They went to the door, Fluttershy opened it and called out:

“Anypony home?”
A Pegasus mare walked into the front room.
“Fluttershy!” said the older mare with glasses. “You’re home.  Why didn’t you tell us?  We would’ve made up your room for you.”
The mother and daughter hugged.  Then the mother noticed Twilight.  And noticed she was an Alicorn.
“I’m sorry, Your Highness!” said Mrs. Shy, bowing, “I didn’t see you there.”
“Please Mrs. Shy,” said Twilight, “just Twilight.”
“Twilight Sparkle, the Princess of Friendship? We’re honored to have you here. You must be the friend Fluttershy talks about.”
“Mom,” said Fluttershy, “Twilight isn’t my friend.”
“No?” asked the mother.
“No,” answered Fluttershy, “Twilight is my marefriend.”
With that she took Twilight’s hoof and they exchanged a small kiss.
Just then and older stallion cam in the front door.

“Honey!” he said, “I heard that there’s some princess running around Cloudsdale!  How wild is that?”
He suddenly noticed his daughter was kissing and holding a hoof with an Alicorn.
“Dear,” said the mother, “Fluttershy is home, and she says that Princess Twilight Sparkle is her marefriend.”
“Your Highness!” said the Stallion bowing.
“Daddy,” said Fluttershy, “you don’t have to do that.”
“Please Mr. and Mrs. Shy,” said Twilight, “I’m not Celestia or Luna.  I’m no better than either of you.  I’m just plain Twilight Sparkle, your daughter’s marefriend.”
“Marefriend?” said the stallion timidly. 
“I there a problem daddy?”
“Well,” said Mrs. Shy, “your father and I were going to talk to you soon.  We were wondering when you were going to settle down with a nice stallion and have grandfoals.”
“I know we aren’t as bold and modern as you, Fluttershy,” said Mr. Shy, “but this isn’t anything we were expecting.”
“Maybe I should wait outside, Butterfly,” said Twilight.  She turned and walked out the door.
The door closed. Neither parent had seen a look on their daughter’s face as now.
“Who’s Butterfly,” said Mrs. Shy.
“That’s Twilight’s pet name for me!  And I’m sorry if you’ve had Ideas for my life.” Said Fluttershy quite irked.  

“But spoiler alert!  

I live my life!  I have to be happy for where that life is going!  And that life is going in the direction of Twilight Sparkle.  She’s treated me with respect and tenderness.  She hasn’t said it yet, but she loves me and in the light of this, I really think I love her.  

And hang on to your hearts…

We’ve had sex!”

“Fluttershy,” said the mother, “please don’t take what we said wrong.  It’s what we were hoping.  That doesn’t mean that we wouldn’t be happy for you and Princess Twilight.  I don’t think there’s a pony in Equestria that’d be as good of a pony for you.”

Fluttershy’s father went to the door and saw Twilight looking at the meticulously cared for flowers by the door.

“Please come inside princess,” said the father, “we’re sorry for the misunderstanding.”
“I’ll come in if you and your wife will call me Twilight, I’m your daughter’s marefriend after all.”
“We will, Your Hi… I mean… Twilight.”

Twilight followed Fluttershy’s father in.  The couple hugged and kissed a subdued kiss.

The rest of the afternoon went by without incident.  Twilight was comfortable with Fluttershy’s folks and they had a good early dinner.  
Just before they went to take their leave of Fluttershy’s parents, the parents spoke up.

“Now you two have a good time,” said Mr. Shy.  “When you get back, we’ll have your room fixed up, Fluttershy.  And we’ll have Zephyr’s room fixed up for you as well, Twilight.
Oh, and say hello to Rainbow for us.  She was always a good friend of Fluttershy’s in school.  She helped Shy-Shy to stand up to the bullies.”
“Shy-Shy?” said Twilight.
“Never mind, Twi,” said Fluttershy with a playfully kick to her marefriend’s shin.
There was a small feeling of disappointment at the suggestion of separate rooms, but they didn’t want to hurt the older ponies feelings, they’d shocked them enough for today.

“Thanks, dad,” said Fluttershy, trying to hide her disappointment at the room suggestion as well.

Twilight and Fluttershy flew off to the Cloudeseum.

“Twi,” said Fluttershy, “are you disappointed that my parents invited us to stay with them.”
“I’d be lying if I said no,” said Twilight, “I was looking forward to a night with you, alone.”
“Me too Twi,” said Fluttershy. “But I guess we won’t want to hurt their feelings. I’m sure we can make it up, somehow.”
“Butterfly, I have every intention!”
The two giggled and flew on.  



On landing they went to the gate and Twilight presented her tickets.  To her embarrassment, the usher escorted her and Fluttershy to the ‘Royal Box’.  When there, a spotlight shown on them, Fluttershy quickly ducked behind Twilight.
An announcement was made:
“Please stand and put your hooves together to welcome Her Highness, Twilight Sparkle; The Princess of Friendship!”

Twilight remained standing and waved at the cheering crowd.

“Rainbow Dash is going to pay for this,” said Twilight to her date, hiding behind her.
Despite hiding from the spotlight, Fluttershy giggled.

The show was spectacular and it was evident that Rainbow was becoming an important part of the team, perhaps becoming secondary to Spitfire, as far as performance went.
Twilight and Fluttershy were in awe of the show and sat side by side holding hooves.  Occasionally they’d glance at the other and give a little kiss.

After the show, Rainbow stopped by the box and was surprised that the pony with Twilight was Fluttershy.  After Twilight had chewed Rainbow out, half seriously, Rainbow asked:

“Twi, how did you get Fluttershy to come with you.  I could never get her to come to Cloudsdale for a show.”
“Twilight has one more bit of incentive than you had,” said Fluttershy.
“What‘s that?” asked Rainbow, a bit confused.
“It’s this,” said Twilight who embraced Fluttershy and kissed her deep and long.
“Well I’ll be,” said Rainbow in pleasant shock. Rainbow had to remain cool (or so she thought), but she was so happy for her childhood friend.  “We can talk later about that. Okay?”
Twilight and Fluttershy gave an affirmative answer to Rainbow who had to go and meet with the rest of the team.


As they were leaving, Fluttershy said she had to go to the restroom.  She kissed Twilight and went to the facility.  
On exiting, she ran into some unwelcome ponies, none other than the bullies from her school days.  They blocked Fluttershy’s way and were taunting her.  It was obvious that they’d been drinking a little too much.

“Look everypony,” said Dumb-Bell, “it’s Klutzershy.  Poor little thing, all alone.  Let’s go and show her a good time.  You’re coming with us out back, we can put your marehood to good use.”
“Yeah,” said Hoops, “you ain’t got Rainbow Crash to protect you.  I think you owe us something.”
Score had went around her and tried to put his hoof in Fluttershy’s marehood.
“Look guys, I think the little slut is ready now.”
Fluttershy delivered a kick to Score which made him mad. He didn’t think Fluttershy had enough confidence to do this.
The boys were trying to force Fluttershy to come with them, she was putting up more of a struggle than they were expecting.  They were starting to get rough.  Also, ponies were noticing.
“You better stop this now!” exclaimed Fluttershy.
“Or what, Klutzershy,” said Dumb-Bell, “just who do you think can stop us?  You? Rainbow Crash?  I think you’re alone this time.”

“I wouldn’t count on that,” said a voice from behind them.

“Oh yeah?” said Hoops, “and who do you think you are?”
They all turned to the new speaker.  They were shocked to see an Alicorn, her wings spread to give full meaning to her presence.  There was also a group of police officers.  Rainbow Dash and most of the Wonderbolts, still in uniform, were there as well.  
“Honey,” said Twilight to Fluttershy, “are you alright?”
“Honey?” said the bullies in shock and disbelief. 
“I am now, a little shaken, but that’s all,” said Fluttershy.  She walked to Twilight and received a large kiss.  The boys were about to faint.
“EXPLAIN YOURSELVES!” Demanded Twilight in the Traditional Royal Canterlot Voice.
“We were just saying hello to our old friend,” said Score.
“Yes,” said Hoops, “we go way back.” 
“I’m sorry, but threating rape, attempted ponynapping and inappropriately touching my marefriend is not saying hello.  

I saw everything!”

The boys knew that they couldn’t talk their way out of this nor could they threaten, so they turned to fly away.  But a purple aura turned them back and dragged them close to Twilight.  Fluttershy had never seen such a fierce look on Twilight before.  They were almost muzzle to muzzle.
“Since you’ve obviously been drinking too much, I’m going to be lenient on you…

This time! 

These fine officers will take you to the Cloudsdale jail. There you’ll spend the night in the drunk tank.  
And I know the trouble you’ve been to my friends Fluttershy and Rainbow in the past.  So I’ll make this so easy that even your simple little minds can comprehend.  If I ever hear of any one of you or the three of you EVER even speaking to Fluttershy or Rainbow Dash, and/or using some degrading name, without them giving you permission to speaking first, they’ll tell me and I’ll have you thrown in the dungeon at Canterlot Castle until what time… 
If any… 
I decide to bring charges.  
And it might take years!

DO I MAKE MYSELF PERFECTLY CLEAR?!” Twilight screamed using The Voice as well. 

“Yes princess,” they all said, hanging their heads in shame.  They finally realized that all their bullying had now blown up in their faces and they were getting their comeuppance. 
“Take them away, officers,” said Twilight.

They watched as the police secured them and led them away, crying.

“I’ve waited all my life for that,” said Fluttershy with one of the largest smiles Twilight had ever seen on her marefriend.  
“That was so sweet,” said Rainbow flying up to her friends. 
The three hugged.
“I’ll see you two back in Ponyville, ‘kay?”  said Rainbow leaving with the rest of the Bolts.
They all waved as Rainbow flew off.


On the way to the Shy home, Twilight and Fluttershy stopped to have a drink.  They only had two glasses of wine each, they didn’t want to panic the parents with them coming there drunk.

At the Shy home, after a bit of talking about the show, and how the bullies were finally taken care of, they all said that they were tired and they went to turn in.  In the hall, Twilight and Fluttershy were embracing and kissed a bit before going to their rooms.  Fluttershy’s mother saw this and giggled.

Twilight went in to the room provided and turned in. It was hard to get to relax thinking that her Butterfly was only a room away.  After about a half hour there was a knock at the door and it opened.  Mrs. Shy stuck her head in.
“Come with me Twilight, and be quiet.”
Twilight was led to Fluttershy’s door.
“If her father says anything in the morning, I’ll deal with it.  Just be good to Fluttershy.” Said Mrs. Shy giving Twilight a hug.  She walked back to her room and Twilight, quietly entered Fluttershy’s room.
Fluttershy was laying on her bed, smiling as if she was expecting this.

“My mom can be cool sometimes,” said Fluttershy as Twilight climbed into bed with her.  
Fluttershy didn’t get to say anything else. Twilight was hungry kissing her and her hoof exploring her body, as Fluttershy’s was doing to Twilight.

And most thrillingly, they both remembered it all!
> CHAPTER FIVE: How Do We Start?
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Twilight awoke early, she and Fluttershy were embracing.  Twilight opened her eyes and was looking at the beautiful face of her apparently still sleeping Butterfly, the most beautiful smile was on her face. Twilight stroked the flowing pink mane of her lover, it was so soft.  Twilight leaned over and gave a soft kiss on her cheek.  Fluttershy smiled a bit more and shifted closer to Twilight.
Thinking back, when she and Fluttershy were chosen to go to settle a friendship problem in the Smoky Mountains.  Twilight was excited, she was excited to finally be called by the map.  
But it was as much as being called to go with Fluttershy.  There always a little thrill any time she was around her friend.  But with the time the two has spent together, that thrill had expanded to something else.  So it was more than just lust being expressed now.  Twilight felt in her heart something for the shy Pegasus, she’d never felt for anypony else.
As Twilight looked at Fluttershy, it almost appeared that she was glowing.  Twilight knew it was just the joy in her heart making her think like this.  

‘I really would love waking up to this sight every morning,’ thought Twilight.

‘Love to wake up like this?’ thought Twilight to herself as if her logical side was being separate from her emotional side. ‘Do you realize what you’re saying? Love to wake up like this?  Why?’

‘Why would I love to wake up like this?  Because… 

Because… 

Because I love Butterfly.’

“I love you Butterfly,” whispered Twilight, looking at the apparently sleeping mare beside her.

“I love you too Twi,” said Fluttershy opening her eyes.  “I think I have for some time.”
“I think I’ve loved you for some time as well,” said Twilight.
Twilight embraced Fluttershy and kissed the deepest kiss yet with her Pegasus marefriend. Then they embraced closely.
Fluttershy felt tears on her coat.

“Twi,” said Fluttershy, “why are you crying?”
“I can’t believe this,” said Twilight, “before this, I never thought about having anypony in my life.  Now I can’t understand how I was able to live without you.  My sweet, sweet Butterfly.”
“Oh Twi,” said Fluttershy, “I want you to know that before I met you, I was afraid to even think of any relationships other than friends.  Even those were approached with caution.  
It’s perhaps right that you call me ‘Butterfly’.  I was in my little cocoon afraid to let somepony in.  But with your love, I have broken out of that like a butterfly.  
I’m still am a bit of a scaredy-pony, but if I’m with you, I can be brave and we can face things (Fluttershy took Twilight’s hoof) together.”


The two decided that they did have to get up and head back to Ponyville.  As quietly as they could, they left Fluttershy’s room to head to the shower, but as they did, Mr. Shy was walking down the hall and saw them coming out of Fluttershy’s room.

“So there you are Twilight,” said the father.
“I’m sorry sir,” said Twilight.
“Fluttershy,” said the father, “you can’t believe the disappointment I felt when I knocked on Twilight’s door last night and discovered she wasn’t in there.”
“Daddy, I…” but Fluttershy didn’t get to finish.  Mr. Shy smiled.
“Disappointed that your mother already told Twilight that it was okay for her to sleep with you.  I wanted to do that.”
“Oh! Daddy!” said Fluttershy hugging her father.
“You two take a shower,” said the father, “by then we’ll have breakfast ready before you have to fly back to Ponyville.”

The two lovers had a great meal with Fluttershy’s parents.  They told Twilight that they wouldn’t call her princess if she’d call them ‘mom’ and ‘dad’.  Twilight was happy to comply.  There were hugs all around as the two left the Shy home.



The two didn’t really talk about anything important as they flew back to Ponyville, they were just so happy to be together.  But as they landed at Twilight’s castle. Twilight had the strangest of feeling.  
They went in and walked quietly to the library.  When outside the door, they could hear voices, especially Pinkie Pie’s.

“I think we should’ve told Rainbow to keep this quiet for now.” Said Fluttershy.
Twilight started to snicker.
“What,” said Fluttershy with a grin. 
“Stand close,” said Twilight quietly, then a bit loudly,  “why is the library door closed?”
Then Twilight’s aura appeared around the door handle and jiggled it loudly.  There was a flash and she and Fluttershy were gone.

Fluttershy realized she and Twilight were now behind a curtain.  They peeked out and saw they were at the back of the library. There in the library were all their friends, everypony was looking at the door.  Rarity’s aura appeared on the door and it opened.

“Surp…” they started to call out, but stopped when they noticed that nopony was there.  Pinkie and Rarity stuck their heads out the door and saw nopony, needless to say, they were confused.

Starlight Glimmer was standing at the back of the crowd, nearest to Twilight and Fluttershy.

“Quietly,” whispered Twilight to Fluttershy.

They walked up just behind and beside Starlight.

“What are we looking for,” asked Twilight quietly to Starlight.
“We’re waiting for Twilight and Fluttershy,” said Starlight.  Then it struck her who’s voice it was she was speaking to.  She turned quickly and saw the two in question there.
“Twilight?” asked Starlight.

“SURPRISE!” shouted Twilight and Fluttershy.

Everypony turned and saw Twilight and Fluttershy at the back of the room, laughing hard.

”Twilight! Fluttershy!” said Pinkie laughing, “you spoiled our surprise.”
“No Pinkie,” said Twilight, “Rainbow Dash spoiled ours.”
Rainbow was looking sheepish.
“I guess it’s out in the open now,” said Fluttershy.
“I guess so,” said Twilight.
The two embraced and kissed deep and long.  The was a lot of cheering and applause. 
“I guess we can say,” said Twilight, “Butterfly and I are now a couple.”
“Butterfly?” said Rarity, as always, with a knowing smile.
The ponies rushed to congratulate them.

It was a typical Pinkie Party and everypony had a good time.  But when over, Fluttershy had to go to her cottage, the animal friends were waiting.  She also joked that she’d have to get there to untie Harry because she was sure Angel had been acting up.
The two marefriends laughed.  Twilight told Starlight that she was walking Fluttershy home and was unsure how late she’d be back.


When they got to the cottage, Twilight made excuses that she couldn’t stay.  Fluttershy was disappointed and after some major kissing, went inside to check on the animals.  She closed the door so she didn’t see the bright purple flash.

After getting all her friends to bed and saying good night to Harry as he left for his cave with the Cloudsdale souvenir that they’d brought him, Fluttershy went upstairs. After a quick trip to the bathroom she climbed in bed.  Only to notice that Twilight was already there.

“Twilight! I thought…” said Fluttershy, but she didn’t get to finish because of Twilight’s tongue halfway down Fluttershy’s throat.

Hours later the two were holding close and enjoying their afterglow.  They were exchanging small kisses and words of love.

“Butterfly,” said Twilight, “I think I’ve found a flaw in our relationship.”
“What’s that?”
“If or when we decided to live with each other, where would we stay?  You have your animal friends, here and in the surrounding fields and woods.  I have my castle where I have to perform my princess duties, along with headmare duties at the school, mentoring Starlight Glimmer and watching after Spike.”
“I hadn’t thought about that,” said Fluttershy.
“Yes,” said Twilight, “it’s probably too soon to actually make plans for that.  But I think we need to put some thought to it, for the future.”
“For the future,” said Fluttershy, “yes.  But for now, let’s enjoy being marefriends together and treasuring times we can be together.  Here and at the castle.”
The two smiled.
“I love you, Butterfly,” said Twilight.
“And I love you Twi,” answered Fluttershy.
They embraced and drifted off to sleep.



When not working, Twilight and Fluttershy were always seen together, either at the castle, Fluttershy’s cottage or around Ponyville.  One didn’t have to be a close friend to see the level of affection the two had for one another.  
Ponies who would see the two in town had to take a second look.  Twilight had the reputation of being reserved with her public emotions. And Fluttershy was always so painfully shy and tried to avoid any kind of public notice.  But here were the two, obviously a couple and obviously unashamedly affectionate toward the other.

Everypony around and their families appeared happy for the couple.  

That is until…
> CHAPTER SIX: Are You Crazy?
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

About four moons later in Cloudsdale…

“And you’re doing well at your job?” asked Mrs. Shy.  “You never write or visit.”
“Oh yeah mom,” said Zephyr Breeze.  “Doing good, real good.”
“Are you making any new friends?” asked the father.
“As a matter of fact,” said Zephyr, starting to sound nervous, “it’s kind’a the reason I’m here.”
“Oh?” asked the mother a little suspicious. “Why is that?”
“Mom, my friend, Cumulonimbus, We call him Nim.  He’s a real nice guy.  Good job and hardly ever drinks.  At least not too much.  We were talking and he was saying how he’d like to find a nice quiet mare.
Well Flutters immediately jumped to mind.  I told him all about my big sis and he’s really looking forward to meeting her. In fact he’s meeting me here later today so we can go on to Ponyville.”
Zephyr saw odd looks on his parent’s faces.
“What’s the problem?”
“Honey,” said Mrs. Shy, “Fluttershy has been in a serious relationship for several moons now.”
“What?” said Zephyr, “come on.  He can’t be better than Nim.  I’m sure when she meets him, she’ll change her mind.”
“Zephyr,” said the father, “I doubt that your sister is going to change her mind. She’s loves Twilight very much.”
“Twilight?” said Zephyr, “That’s an odd name for a stallion.  It almost sounds like the princess in Ponyville.”
“That’s because it is.” Said the mother, “she and Fluttershy are a couple.”
Zephyr was starting to panic.  This was bad, very very bad.  He couldn’t let his parents know the real reason for this visit.
“No, no, no!” exclaimed Zephyr, “Fluttershy can’t be some mare-lover!  If you won’t stop her and straighten her out, Then I Will!”

Zephyr stormed out, neither parent had ever seen their son act like this.  They figured that there had to be more to it.
“Honey,” said Mr. Shy, “I think we need to get a warning to Shy-Shy.  I guess I need to take off to Ponyville.  Zephyr said he had to meet his friend first.”
“No dear,” said the mother, “the doctor said you need to limit stress because of your heart.”
“But Fluttershy!”
“I’ll go dear,” said the mother, “last check up the doctor gave me a clean bill of health. So there should be no problem.”
“Then be careful, my dear.  Something tells me that there might be more going on than what it appears.”
The couple kissed, Mrs. Shy removed her apron and put on a pair of old flight goggles, went through the door and took to the sky.

Latter…

Rainbow Dash was finishing up some afternoon weather chores when he saw at a distance a Pegasus she thought was Fluttershy, at first.  But as they approached, she saw that the mane and tail were a darker reddish than her friend.  Then she recognized the pony was a mare that was almost a second mother to herself as she was growing up.
“Mrs. Shy?” Rainbow asked herself.  
She’d never seen the quiet mare flying this fast and this far from Cloudsdale.  Rainbow took off like a shot in the direction of her foalhood friend’s mother.
As Rainbow drew close, she heard the mare calling out to her in a voice and volume she’d never heard before.
Rainbow quickly flew up beside her.  Mrs. Shy didn’t slow or stop.
“Mrs. Shy! What’s up?”
“Rainbow!” said Mrs. Shy breathlessly, “where’s Fluttershy?”
“I think she’s at her cottage.  Twilight had a lot of meetings at the castle so she was taking care of some of her animal friends.  Why?”
“I think Zephyr isn’t using his common sense and is about to cause a lot of trouble for himself and Fluttershy.”
“When has Zeph ever had any common sense?”

The two Pegasi banked toward Fluttershy’s cottage.  In spite of trying her best not to out run the older mare, Mrs. Shy was hard pressed to keep up.  But she was able to let Rainbow know what was going on.


“There you go Mrs. Skunk,” said Fluttershy as she finished bandaging the little animal’s left hind leg. “You know that badgers have a very short temper, and are immune to your… Uh… Defense.”
The animal chattered a thank you that Fluttershy could understand.
Fluttershy opened the cottage door to let Mrs. Skunk out and was surprised to see her mother and Rainbow Dash about to knock.
“Mom!” said Fluttershy, shocked to see her ‘stay at home’ mother this far from Cloudsdale. “What’s wrong?  Is daddy okay?”
“He’s fine dear,” said Mrs. Shy, “It’s your brother Zephyr…”
“Is he hurt?” asked Fluttershy afraid.
“No,” said Rainbow, angered, “but he’s about to be.”
“You better explain,” said Fluttershy motioning to a couch.

Mrs. Shy explained the visit this morning by the younger brother.  How she was concerned that this might be more than Zeph’s closed mindedness.  The fact that they hadn’t heard from him for moons and then him showing up like he did.

“I know this must really hurt, Rainbow,” said Mrs. Shy.
“Okay!” said Rainbow, trying not to be upset at Fluttershy’s mother.  “I’ve never liked Zephyr, at least that way.  The only reason I haven’t done anything ‘drastic’ and become upset is that he’s your son and Flutter’s brother.  
To tell the truth, he never had a chance.  In fact, Fluttershy had more of a chance.  

If you know what I mean.”

Mrs. Shy smiled a small smile.
“You knew this already!” said Rainbow.
“I’ve had to have my fun somehow,” said Fluttershy’s mother.
Rainbow facehoofed but wasn’t really upset.  It was a good joke.  Rainbow was impressed at how long Mrs. Shy had kept it up.

“So tell me again what Zephyr said,” said Fluttershy.
“He said his friend was looking for a nice mare.” Said the mother, “and he got really upset when he heard you were with Twilight.  He had such a reaction about ‘mare-lovers’.  I’ve never heard him speak that way ever.  He always was of a mindset of tolerance of everything almost to the point of apathy.  I’m afraid something is going on and he’s not telling everything.”
“I think I might need to go get Twi,” said Rainbow.
“Yes Rainbow,” said Fluttershy, “and I fear you might need to hurry.”

Rainbow nodded and streaked out the door and flew off leaving her spectral trail behind. Fluttershy went and closed and locked her front door.


Twilight was just wrapping up her meeting and seeing the Ponyville elders out the door when Rainbow came streaking up.

“Twi, come quick!” shouted the blue Pegasus.
“Hold on, Rainbow,” said Twilight, “I’m just saying good bye.”
“No time!” said Rainbow, “it’s Fluttershy, and there may be trouble.”
“Excuse me ponies,” said Twilight as she took off toward her marefriend’s cottage.


Rainbow didn’t know that Twilight could fly that fast.  But it was her marefriend, Rainbow would feel the same way.

Landing in front of Fluttershy’s cottage, they saw something that told them something was wrong. The door was off its hinges and there was blood just inside the opening.

“Butterfly!” screamed Twilight.

Twilight and Rainbow rushed inside only to see Zephyr laid out on the floor,  He was bleeding from his muzzle and he was crying. He looked bad. 
Twilight’s aura surrounded the stallion and lifted him face to face with Twilight.

“Where-Is-Your-Sister!” yelled Twilight.
The stallion started to cry harder.  Twilight’s aura pulled Zephyr closer.
“If you don’t tell me where your sister is, and right now,” said Twilight threateningly between clenched teeth. “you will find your worthless self in the dungeon at Canterlot Castle.”
Zephyr saw the fire in Twilight’s eyes.  He suddenly was more afraid for this than what Nim had threatened. 
“Rainbows, help me out here please,” said the stallion, “I thought I meant something to you.”
“Zeph,” said Rainbow as angry as Twilight, “the only thing you ever meant to me was as Fluttershy’s brother.  Whatever you thought was between us was your own delusion.  If I were you, I’d talk now or perhaps you’ll want Twilight to change her mind and send you to Tartarus on a permanent basis.”
Then Rainbow looked around.
“And where’s your mother?”
“I’m here Rainbow.” Said Mrs. Shy coming in the room.  “She was holding a cool cloth to her eye.  Apparently she’d been attacked also.  “Twilight, please put him down and let me handle this.”
Twilight saw a look in her eyes that she understood.  For the sake of her love’s mother she dropped Zephyr, rather hard.
“Yes ma’am,” said Twilight in respect to Fluttershy’s mom.
Mrs. Shy bent down and grabbed Zephyr’s ear in her teeth, none too gently.  Then she pulled him up.  Then released him.

“That hurt!” cried Zephyr.
“What’s really going on!” said the mare ignoring her son’s complaint and speaking louder than Rainbow had ever heard her foalhood friend’s mother.
“Can we at least sit down?”
“Sit,” commanded Twilight, “I’ll be right back.”
Twilight went to the open door and whistled a loud shrill whistle.  A moment later Twilight returned being followed by a large brown bear.

“Now explain what’s going on,” said Twilight threateningly, “I’m the Princess of Friendship and therefore honor bound not to do any harm. But Fluttershy’s friend Harry here isn’t bound to any of that.  And he takes his friendship with Fluttershy extremely seriously.

NOW TALK!”

Harry snarled looking at the frightened stallion.  His long claws and bared teeth told Zeph all he needed to know about the deadly peril he was in from this friend of his sister.  He was only now discovering that what he’d agreed to would have never worked and now it may cost his freedom by Twilight or his life by Harry.

Zephyr took a deep breath and started his explanation.
> CHAPTER SEVEN: A Stallion’s ‘Plight’
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Two days earlier…

Zephyr Breeze was finishing his last client of the day.  He was the last in the shop and was looking forward to locking up and going to his apartment to enjoy some ‘Me Time’.

As he was brushing the clipped mane hair from his client, he heard the bell at the front door ring, announcing somepony just entered.

A large Pegasus stallion approached threateningly, looked at the client and said:

“Beat it!”
“She hasn’t paid yet,” said Zeph.
“Her lucky day,” said the stallion, “not yours.”

The mare got up and walked quickly to the door.  There were two other rough looking Pegasi that had entered.  One opened the door for the mare, then closed and locked it. Then they turned the sign on the door to ‘Closed’ and lowered the blinds.

“So hey Nim,” chuckled Zephyr nervously, “here for a trim?”
“Don’t try to be funny, laughing boy,” said Nim, “you know why I’m here.  Your gambling debts have become quite high.  It’s apparent that you’re not gonna come up with the bits.  So the only way I’m get what’s due to me is in your blood.
Boys, hold him down!”

The ‘Boys’ grabbed Zeph and shoved him down and held him on the floor.  Nim was about to kick Zeph’s face until his leg wore out but he noticed something and stopped before he started.  There on Zephyr’s station was a picture of his sister.
“Who’s the looker?” asked Nim, “surely not your marefriend.”
“Who? Fluttershy?” said Zeph, “no, she’s my big sister,”
“Sister, eh? She married or have a coltfriend?”
“Not that I’m aware.”
“Virgin?” 
“How the hay would I know that?” said Zeph upset at what he thought was being implied.
“It looks like I was wrong, it just might be your lucky day after all,” said Nim.  He nodded to the two henchponies who pulled Zephyr up to his hooves.
“You and me,” said the stallion, putting a foreleg around Zeph, “we’re ‘bout to become the best of friends.”
“How come?” asked Zeph.
“I have a client, a bigwig in Saddle Arabia, Sheik Hasson ben-Eazi.  He’s always looking to add beautiful, young and tender pony mares to his harem.
You introduce me to your sister and we can call your debt paid, we’ll even put the debt paid in writing.”
“But what if Fluttershy isn’t interested?” 
“Leave that to me. I didn’t say I’d ask.  But if you’re not gonna help then we’ll write the debt paid in your blood.  Understand?”
“I understand,” said Zeph.  He didn’t like the sound of this but what choice did he have, he thought?

In the present…

“So you see, what choice did I have?” asked Zeph, sounding pathetic.

“What choice did you have? What choice did you have!” exclaimed Twilight, her horn glowed ominously.
“Twilight, let me handle this,” said Mrs. Shy.
“Okay, mom,” said Twilight, her horn dimed.
Zephyr was expecting easier treatment from his mother, not what happened next.
Mrs. Shy drew back and slapped the stallion across the face, perhaps the hardest she could.
“You sold out your sister to save your own buckin’ hide?” said the mother with loathing.  Rainbow or Zeph had never ever heard the mother swear.  “I’m glad your father isn’t here.  He’d die of a heart attack!” 
“Where are they taking her?” asked Rainbow.
“Saddle Arabia, I suppose.” Said the Stallion, rubbing the spot his mother had slapped him.

Twilight then remembered something.  There was a Saddle Arabian diplomat visiting Canterlot.  Perhaps they could help.

“Come everypony,” said Twilight, “we have to get to Canterlot.”
“I don’t wanna go!” cried Zephyr. “I just wanna go home.”
“You buckin’ coward,” said Rainbow drawing back to smack the self-centered stallion, but the mother stopped her.
“I’m sure your sister didn’t want to go either,” said the mother still madder than she’d ever been in her life.  “But what choice did you give her?”
“Harry, you’re coming too.  Pick up that thing and bring him with us.”
Harry growled and picked up Zeph and tucked him under one arm and held him tightly, very tightly.


Ponies on the train looked at the group of 4 ponies and a large brown bear.  The stallion looked terrified, the mares and the bear looked grim.


In  Canterlot the group went straight to the castle. They made their way to the throne room. The guard wasn’t going to let the bear in.  But Princess Twilight did something for the first time in her life and ‘pulled rank’ and commanded the guard to let the bear pass.  Twilight tried not to let it amuse her when Harry growled a smug growl at the guards with his thumb claw to his nose.

The door to the throne room opened and Celestia looked up and saw the group.  She noted the look on everypony’s faces.
They all entered, Rainbow, Zephyr, Mrs. Shy and Harry bowed.
“Twilight!” said Celestia, “what’s wrong?  You usually let me know you’re coming.”
“Princess Celestia,” said Twilight. “This is Mrs. Shy and Zephyr Breeze.  My Butterfly’s mother and brother.  And this is Butterfly’s friend and protector, Harry.”
“Yes,” said Celestia looking at the bear, “I know Harry, how are you Harry?”
The bear waved and growled a friendly growl.
“Welcome to the rest of you,” finished the princess.
“You may want to hold your welcome for my love’s brother.” Said Twilight quite cross, Celestia didn’t miss it.
“Oh?” asked the princess.

Twilight’s aura pushed Zephyr forward.

“Tell the princess!” demanded Twilight.  
Harry growled backing up Twilight.
Truthfully, Zeph was in more fear of Twilight and Harry than Celestia.

“Well, Your Highness…” Zeph went through everything he’d explained prior.  

Princess Celestia was as emotionless as stone while the stallion spoke.  When done, there was a few minutes of quiet as the Princess thought. Then she descended from her dais to the pathetic wretch of a stallion.  Her gaze pierced him to his very soul.  Then she turned to look at the mother.

“And you struck him after he told you this?” asked Celestia.
“Yes, Your Highness,” said Mrs. Shy looking very ashamed.
“She was…” started Zeph.
“We have not given you leave to speak,” said Celestia very officially.  The royal We gave away her seriousness.
Zephyr hung his head.
“Twilight,” said Celestia, “you threatened him with imprisonment?  And/or with allowing our brown friend here to deal with him?”
“Yes princess.” Said Twilight without any remorse.  
“I see,” said the princess, “Zephyr, is it?  You may consider yourself lucky.
Everypony around you has acted with restraint.  Realize you committed this heinous act within what is technically Twilight’s realm. She could’ve enacted any punishment she saw fit and be within her right to do so.  

Even death.

And I know if you’d have sold my sister into sexual slavery (Zephyr was surprised.  He hadn’t considered it that way) you’d still be screaming in Tartarus!
That’s a fate worse than death.  Death is over and then there’s no more pain or shame.  But you’ve condemned your sister to a lifetime of pain, shame and loss of all dignity!  And all because you couldn’t be responsible for your own actions.”

“I heard that a Saddle Arabian diplomat was in Canterlot,” said Twilight.
“Yes Twilight, that is until this morning,” said Celestia, “he was none other than that Sheik Hasson ben-Eazi.”
“Then let’s send the guard out after him,” said Twilight.
“We can’t,” said Celestia.  “He has Diplomatic Immunity, so all who are in his entourage including, if he is with them, this Cumulonimbus.  They all would be in his protection.”
“And Fluttershy?” asked Rainbow.
“It is true that if she’s with them against her will, then she would not be under that protection.  But to get to her may be impossible.  The other thing is that if they reach Saddle Arabia and the wedding ceremony is enacted, then it is legal by their laws.  And in SA the bride doesn’t have to be willing.  In fact, the mare has no rights at all in the more conservative factions. The only recourse would be if Fluttershy was already married.
The plus side is that SA weddings are three days long and in Saddle Arabia.”

Twilight thought for a moment, then her face lit up.

“Rainbow,” said Twilight, “do you know what the real function of a ‘best mare’ is?”
“They’re just the maid of honor, right?” said Rainbow wondering why this change in conversation.
“No Rainbow,” said Celestia, “It comes from the days when travel was harder.  It was in case the bride was detained, the best mare would stand in for the bride and go through the wedding for the bride.”
“So the best mare would have to marry to the pony?”  
“No, they’re representing the absent bride as a proxy, thus allowing the wedding to go forward. The two original ponies are married and the best mare remains unattached as they were prior.”
“Oh,” said Rainbow starting to understand where Twilight might be going with this.
“Mrs. Shy,” said Twilight, “I’d like to have had time for a big ceremony with all the frills and fun.  
 
But needs must when Discord drives.  

I’d like your permission to marry Fluttershy.”
The older mare hugged Twilight.  
“Of course, Twilight.”
Twilight whispered in the mare’s ear:
“Ask Rainbow to be Fluttershy’s best mare.”

“Rainbow,” said Mrs. Shy, “would you do us the honor of being Fluttershy’s best mare?”
“I’d love to.” said Rainbow.
“Do I get to say anything?” asked Zephyr.
“What would you say?” asked Twilight.
“I’d really like to have you as a sister-in-law.  Perhaps someday I can redeem myself and be considered family.”
“We will see,” said Twilight.  “Princess, I think we’re ready.”

“My dearly beloved subjects…

… And so I am honored to say, I pronounce you wed, you may kiss your…  

Oops!  Force of habit.”

“Aw, don’t I get a kiss?” joked Rainbow.
“What the Tartarus,” said Celestia who put a wing around Rainbow and delivered a large kiss.

Despite the mood, almost everypony laughed.  Rainbow looked in shock.
“Hey princess,” said Rainbow recovering, “how’d you like to go to dinner with me sometime?”
“We’ll see,” said the princess.  There was an odd gleam in her eyes.  “But for now, congratulations Mrs. Sparkle.  Remember that this wedding by proxy is only good as long as Fluttershy agrees to it.
But for now, you have a wife to save.  We’ll talk about the Princess Consort thing when you return.  And after Rainbow takes me to dinner.”
Twilight smiled, Rainbow was still a bit shocked.

“Mom,” said Twilight, “you can stay here, my parents aren’t far, Princess Celestia can give directions or you can return home.  Rainbow, Harry and I will be handling this.  Zephyr is coming as well, the first step on his road to redemption. He’ll be needed to identify ponies.”
Then looking at Zephyr:
“And if he tries anything…  Let’s just say I can be more creative than Rarity gives me credit for.”
“Raven,” said Celestia, the secretary had been in the background. “Please give Princess Twilight a marriage certificate so she can have it if needed.”
“Yes, Your Highness,” said the secretary.

It didn’t take long before the group were on a train south.  They figured that they could get ahead of the caravan and intercept them in southern Equestria before they were even close to Saddle Arabia.

“What are we gonna do if we find them?” asked Rainbow.
“Well first,” said Twilight, “we’ll confront them.  They may have diplomatic immunity but I’m still a princess, he’s a sheik. That’s equivalent to a lord or chieftain, so technically, I out rank him.  And if he is to be treated as a diplomat, then he has to recognize my authority.”
“And if he doesn’t?” asked Rainbow.
“We try to reason with him.” Said Twilight.
“You realize that the sheik may be reasoned with,” said Zeph, “but I’m sure this isn’t going to go well with Nim.  He’ll probably want to get me for the trouble.”
“Zephyr,” said Twilight, “you may be my brother-in-law right now.  But you understand that what you’ve done is almost unforgivable.  It would be best not to bring up reasons that would be unfortunate for yourself.  
I could very easily be persuaded to let your friends have you, if not for your mother and sister’s sake.  
And according to how she’s been treated, Harry might not need any permission to go berserk!”
“Too bad we didn’t bring popcorn,” said Rainbow scowling at Zephyr.


Later, somewhere in southern Equestria…


“Let’s camp here,” said Twilight.  “They’ll have to come this way and they have no reason to try to take a longer path.”
“I’ll get a fire going,” said Rainbow.
“I don’t have a tent or blanket,” said Zeph.
“You should’ve thought about that before you sold your sister into sexual slavery,” said Twilight.
“I didn’t sell Fluttershy into sexual slavery” said Zeph.
“Did you say something?” asked Twilight threateningly. 
“I didn’t sell…” said Zeph starting to repeat himself.
A bolt of purple whizzed just over his head, so close he felt it like static electricity. The bolt split a fairly substantial tree behind him.  He turned and realized what would have happened if the bolt had hit him.
“I see your point,” said Zeph.
“Zeph,” said Rainbow trying to be helpful for Fluttershy’s sake. “you need to climb down off your normal flippant and self-serving attitude.  Twilight loves Fluttershy deeply.  You need to understand that, because she has power and authority to make you hurt in so many ways.”
“She wouldn’t kill me,” said the stallion in fear.
“No Zephyr,” said Twilight with a fire in her eyes. “But you’d be surprised what you can live through.  
And Celestia help you if Discord gets wind of this!  If he does, then all this will be moot and you’ll wish Harry would’ve eaten you alive.

You’ll be sleeping with our friend Harry, he’ll keep you warm.  And he’ll also know if you try to get away.”



The next morning broke and Zephyr was cold where he was exposed to the night air.  And the part that the bear was holding was almost too hot.

Twilight and Rainbow appeared from different directions from the woods.  Apparently finishing the morning relieving of themselves.
“Hey Twilight,” said Zeph, “can I get up?  I gotta go.”
“Harry, let him get up,” said Twilight.
The bear released Zephyr and he got to his hooves.  
“Where’s the bathroom?”
“Zeph,” said Rainbow, “look around you.  You can use any tree you want.”
“Gross!” said Zeph.
“Suit yourself,” said Twilight, without any sympathy, “mess yourself for all I care. Just stay downwind.”
“Okay,” said the forlorn stallion, “I see your point.”
Zephyr started to walk toward the trees.
“Go with him, Harry,” said Twilight.  “So he doesn’t try to fly off.”
The bear growled in acknowledgement.
“I can’t go with anypony watching!”
“Harry is a bear, not a pony,” said Rainbow.
“Maybe you could go with me, Rainbows,” said Zeph in a flirtatious voice.
“Harry, bring that thing here,” said Rainbow.
Harry grabbed Zephyr and put him down none too gently in front of Rainbow.
“I’m going to explain myself one last time.” Said Rainbow irked at the whole game, “you have never meant anything to me other than Flutters brother.  What ever attraction you thought I might have had for you was just you deluding yourself.  I’m a mare-lover!  I have several girls I’m seeing now.  You never had any chance and I have put up with your little innuendos as a courtesy to Fluttershy and your mother.
That ends now! Even if I were so inclined, you selling your sister to sexual slavery…”
“I didn’t sell…” started Zeph.  But a purple bolt of magic left a chard hole in the ground between his hooves. Twilight was scowling at him.
“You selling your sister into sexual slavery would have killed any chance you could have had.
And when it gets out that you did this to save your miserable hide.  I doubt that there’ll ever be any mare that would trust you enough to even let you talk to her!”
“If you have to go,” said Twilight, “get it over with.”

Zephyr and Harry walked off into the woods as Rainbow and Twilight busied themselves breaking camp.  But as they were finishing, they heard the noise of an approaching number of ponies.
> CHAPTER EIGHT: Confrontation
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sheik Hasson ben-Eazi was in the back of an enclosed wagon.  It was comfortable and richly decorated.  The horse was sitting on a pile of velvet cushions.  Fluttershy was at the back of the wagon, secured to the wall.
“Come now, little one,” said the sheik in a voice with an odd accent.  “In my country, it’s considered a great honor to have a sister or daughter in a harem.  
If you just give in to the inevitable and give yourself to me now.  You’ll find what riches and joy it would bring you.”
Fluttershy stayed against the wall, looking down and silent.  
Luckily for Fluttershy, the ‘bride’ could be intimate with the prospective husband before any wedding.  But it had to be willingly or it was a great taboo that would bring great shame and bad luck if forced.  It would be considered rape.  And there was one punishment for rape in Saddle Arabia, and the sheik was rather comfortable with his head still attached to his neck.  

The wagon stopped, this was not planned.  

“Excuse me, little one,” said the sheik exiting out the front.

Fluttershy had tried to be brave in front of her captor.  But with him out of the wagon, she broke down crying hard.
“Oh Twilight!” said Fluttershy between sobs, “where are you, my love?”

Little did Fluttershy know, Twilight was right outside confronting her captors.


The sheik saw, blocking their path a Pegasus with rainbow mane and a purple Alicorn.  The Alicorn looked most fierce.

“Sheik Hasson ben-Eazi,” said Twilight, “I am Princess Twilight Sparkle.  I’m so sorry to interrupt your noble self.  But there’s been a great misunderstanding.  I know you being a fellow noble, you’ll be most cooperative to correct this.”
The sheik walked to before Twilight.  He was at least as tall as Celestia.  He stopped, and to the shock of his entourage, bowed to the princess. 

“How may I assist, Your Highness.”
“You received into your care,” said Twilight trying to pick words that would not accuse or cause consternation, “a Pegasus Pony named Fluttershy from a pony named Cumulonimbus.  As it happens, he had no right to do this.  She was taken by force and violence from her mother and brother.”
“You present a most serious charge,” said the sheik, “and only because you’ve been so polite and understanding, have I listened to you.  
But the transaction was legal by Saddle Arabian standards.  And because it happened in my personal wagon, it was done on Saddle Arabian soil.
Plus you only have your word on this.  Not that I dispute your honor, Your Highness.  But there is no other evidence.
On top of that, I would never do anything to besmirch my honor and take a bride in such a manner.”

By now the entire entourage was surrounding Twilight and Rainbow.  They were all a little uneasy that these two ponies didn’t appear the least bit intimidated being so outnumbered at least 15:1. 
The sheik turned to Cumulonimbus and spoke low.
“Is what they say true?” 
“Of course not, my lord,” said the rough Pegasus stallion.
Then turning back to Twilight.
“I’m sorry, Your Highness,” said the sheik, “without more evidence, I can’t help you.”

At that moment Zephyr walked out of the woods.  Cumulonimbus looked nervous at this. 

“Hey, Princess Twilight.  It turns out a bear really does go in the woods.
Hey Nim!” said Zeph, recognizing the others there, “I think I made a big mistake when I handed over my sister for my gambling debt.”
“Is that the problem?” said the sheik. “By our laws, that is a legitimate transaction.” 

It was a bit unnerving the way Twilight was looking.  She stuck a hoof to her mouth and blew a loud whistle.  
The next thing heard was the breaking of wood from behind the wagon.

“If you are violating Saddle Arabian sovereignty and diplomatic immunity, this will be war!”
Several of the sheik’s retainers rant to the back of the wagon only to either fly through the air away, or run screaming.
“Sheik,” said Twilight even more smug. “The ponies of Equestria would always respect Saddle Arabian sovereignty and diplomatic immunity.  But that doesn’t or never has extended to creatures of the forest.”
The moment was upset by the sound of a very loud roar.  Turning, the sheik saw a very large brown bear.  He was carrying Fluttershy.

“Get my bride from that thing!” commanded the sheik.

“YOU’LL DO NO SUCH THING!” called Twilight in the Royal Canterlot Voice.

Many of the horses had to cover their ears.

“How dare you interfere!” said the sheik, starting to show true colors.  “She’s mine and there is nothing you can do about it, if you don’t want war.”

Twilight was still grinning, she was about to play the ace up her sleeve.  Twilight’s aura Surrounded the sheik and dragged him to herself, muzzle to muzzle.
“You say you want to threaten war?” said Twilight in a most unnerving way, “what do you think your government would think if they found that you came to Equestria on a diplomatic mission only to kidnap a princess’ wife!”
“Wife?” asked the sheik in surprise.
“Wife!” said Twilight, “Butterfly, come here please.”
Harry put down his friend and Fluttershy ran to Twilight.  They kissed a long deep kiss.
“Wife?” whispered Fluttershy.
“I’ll explain in a bit.” Said Twilight giving her wife a kiss on the cheek.

“Your Highness,” said the sheik, regretting his previous position, “had I known, none of this would’ve happened.”
Nim started to fly away but a purple aura held his hooves to the ground.  Harry went over and scowled at the bruit.

“With your permission, Your Highness, may I take the reprobate back to Saddle Arabia with me to face justice?”
Nim looked concerned, he’d heard about Saddle Arabian justice and the harsh penalties.

“You may,” said Twilight, “if I have your word of honor he will not be put to death.”
The sheik grinned.
“Of course, Your Highness,” said the sheik, “If I kill him, then he can’t learn anything.”

The two laughed. The sheik’s retainers bound and gagged Cumulonimbus.
Then the sheik turned and addressed Fluttershy with a bow.
“I’m sorry, My Princess.  Please forgive my ignorance.  I hope you aren’t too shaken by the experience.”
“No I’m not,” said Fluttershy, not knowing how to take the apology, “thank you, you did treat me well.”
“Farewell, princess, we take our leave of you.”

The sheik bowed, Twilight nodded.  Then the large horse called out in a native language.  The group turned to leave.  They picked up Cumulonimbus and threw him in the back of a wagon like a sack of potatoes.

The group watched as the sheik’s caravan went out of sight.
Rainbow released a breath, Twilight had asked her to let herself do all the talking. Twilight, Rainbow and Harry all hugged Fluttershy.

“Well sis,” said Zephyr, “I guess I’m off the hook now.”
All the ponies looked at him with shock.
“Have you learned nothing?” asked Twilight.  “You still have to answer for pandering, kidnapping and ponytrafficking!  You sold your sister into sexual slavery!  You think an ‘I’m sorry’ will take care of that?”
“I didn’t sell…”
This time the blast of magic completely vaporized his mane style.  Zeph screamed like a foal.
“If it were up to me,” said Twilight, “I’d have let the sheik take you as well.  But you’ll have to answer to Celestia.  But more frighteningly, you’re going to have to answer to your parents.”
“And they probably aren’t going to be the push overs you were used to in the past,” warned Rainbow Dash.


They decided to stay there for the night and head to Canterlot in the morning.  Harry was still Zephyr’s ‘chaperone’. 

They’d finished a dinner and was relaxing around a campfire.  They didn’t worry much about dangers of the wild.  Aside from Twilight’s magic, Harry was a good deterrent from most perils of the forest, short of timber wolves.  

It was dark now as they sat by the fire, Fluttershy had Twilight explain about the whole married thing.  Twilight related the wedding by proxy and how Rainbow stood in for her as best mare. Even how Celestia kissed Rainbow and how the ruler was expecting Rainbow to take her out.
Fluttershy kissed Twilight deeply and then said.
“You know, Twilight,” said Fluttershy, “we’re not really married as of yet.”
“What do you mean, Butterfly?”
Fluttershy got up and walked toward Twilight’s tent.
“We haven’t had a wedding night yet,” said Fluttershy with a sexy voice.  “We have yet to consummate our marriage.”
Twilight got up to follow, she had the largest of smiles.
“Ooh!” said Zephyr, “you’re not going to do that stuff with us here?”
“Don’t worry,” said Rainbow, “you’ll have company tonight.  And if you’re getting frisky, I’m sure it won’t be a problem.”
“I knew you’d come around Rainbows,” said Zeph reaching a hoof out to Rainbow.
Rainbow reached out and slapped the hoof away.
“I was talking about Harry!” said Rainbow.
3 ponies and a bear laughed, Zephyr didn’t find it funny.


It was hours later, the woods were quiet except the sounds of the night insects and other woodland creatures.
Twilight and her now wife were laying on their backs holding hooves, only now getting control of their deep breathing.

Twilight turned and faced Fluttershy, Fluttershy did the same.

“Butterfly, honey,” said Twilight, “are you disappointed that we had to be married this way?”
“No my love,” said Fluttershy, giving Twilight a little kiss. “I would’ve liked to have a big ceremony, a beautiful dress made by Rarity and all our friends in attendance. But to know that we are truly married makes me beyond happy.  To be Mrs. Fluttershy Sparkle is a thrill beyond thrills.”
“Well you know that there will be more pomp and circumstance coming.  You married a ruling princess, even if it is the Princess of Friendship.  That makes you princess consort.  Beware of Rarity, you know how much she’s always wanted to be a princess!
So there will be a ceremony to crown the princess consort.  But I’m sure Rarity will want to make a magnificent dress for both of us.”
“I don’t care,” said Fluttershy, “I love you so much.  And its such a pleasure that our wedding night is out in nature.”
“My love,” said Twilight, “you may be a princess now, but you’re the queen of nature and the empress of my heart.”
Fluttershy giggled and said:
“If I’m empress, then I command the lowly princess to make love to me, I don’t think I’m quite sated yet!”
“Yes, greatness!” said Twilight.
Fluttershy didn’t get to say anything.  Twilight was already kissing her new wife unmercifully.
> CHAPTER NINE: Life Goes On
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It was a couple of days later.  And for some reason, Celestia let Zephyr go on his own recognizance.  He didn’t believe he’d get off that easy.

But the first night he was home alone, he understood why.  Zephyr was reading a mane styling magazine when there was a bright flash.  He looked up and saw the intimidating form of a Draconequus looming over himself.

“Zephyr Breeze,” said Discord, the Lord of Chaos, with an echoing voice and a laugh that denoted that the only fun was going to be for this demigod, “Celestia said I’d find you here.  You and I are about to become the best of friends.” 

Zephyr was suddenly deathly afraid.  This was what Nim had told him before the whole incident with his sister happened. 
And then he remembered Twilight’s warning:

“And Celestia help you if Discord gets wind of this!  If he does, then all this will be moot and you’ll wish Harry would’ve eaten you alive.”


Twilight agreed to accompany her new wife, Fluttershy, to Discord’s home for tea. They were greeted at the door by the lord of chaos and were invited to a chair and table on the wall.  It was pleasant enough, but Fluttershy noticed her brother’s head mounted to a wall.

“Discord!” said Fluttershy, “you didn’t… 

You didn’t…”

“No, Fluttershy,” said Discord was a chuckle, “I didn’t.”
Discord snapped his fingers and suddenly Zephyr looked their way and started to cry.

“Fluttershy! Princess Twilight!” said the unfortunate stallion’s head, “save me!”

“Twilight,” said Discord, “you can ask Celestia, she agreed that this may be the best imprisonment for him.  He’d languish in a normal prison.  Here, he’s watched over and even though he’s in stasis, he’ll feel the passing of time. He gets his punishment, he gets mercy and I get a nifty decoration.”

Discord snapped his fingers and Zephyr’s head looked ahead and was silent.

Twilight gave a little snort, trying to hold back a laugh.

“Discord, I don’t know if this is twisted and disturbing or the funniest thing I’ve ever heard of!” said Twilight.

“Thank you Twilight, I don’t think you’ve ever given me a better complement.”

“Discord,” said Fluttershy, “my brother, he’s not in pain, is he?”

"No Fluttershy,” said Discord, “as much as he might deserve it, I’ll make sure he isn’t hurt. He’ll remember all the time on my wall. It’ll give him something to consider if he ever tries to be less than honest again.”