> Down on the Farm
>  by Valtyrian
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Chapter 1 - Finding a Pearl in a Haystack
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Pearl Rose groaned as she slowly trotted down the path that led to the Apple family farm. She had been dreading this for the last few days. Stopping at the top of the hill, Pearl looked down at the trellis archway. The midmorning morning sun was casting a shadow on the archway long enough that it reached her legs which began to tremble. Nightmare Night was long over with, but now came the consequences of her actions. Sitting down she thought back to the conversation she had with her mentor only a few hours ago.


***


“I’m going where?” Pearl groaned as she flopped her head down on the table.

“Just as I said. Sweet Apple Acres,” Twilight said not even bothering to look up from the various books laid out on her work bench. “Buttercup Apple wants to have a word or two with you. No doubt about what you did to Kohaku.” Looking up she nudged Pearl’s head to get her to look up. “Did you really think attacking him like you did wouldn’t come with consequences?”

“Well it was HIS fault, that darn prank of his…” Pearl whispered under her breath as she shyly looked away. She knew it was a weak defense that she had overused repeatedly since that night. 

“Maybe his prank did cross a line. I have no doubt his mother will punish him for that. However, it still does not excuse what you did to him.”

“Couldn't you just punish me? Why do you have to send me to her.” Pearl bit down on her lower lip. She knew from experience mothers can be quite fierce when protecting their children. 

“Normally I would, my faithful student. But Buttercup requested to talk to you personally. And as the local princess, I will not deny one of my loyal subjects.”

Sighing deeply, Pearl dropped her head down to the table. “So what you’re saying is I have no choice.”

Chuckling, Twilight brushed her hoof over Pearl’s flaming locks. “You always have a choice, my student, however in this case it’s the easy way or the hard way. And the easy way is always best in this situation. Now you best get going. She’ll be expecting you today.”

Pearl just groaned louder.


***


With a long deep breath she started on down the path, even now she could make out the large farmstead home. One that had gone through multiple remodels over the years to account for the expanding family. Looking down at the ground she bumped into something and fell back onto her rump. 

“OH my stars, Ah’m so sorry there young filly,” Applejack said, helping Pearl up and brushing her off. Once Pearl was standing and the shock of being knocked over over with, the Farming pony smiled. “Ain’t seen you ‘round here before. Were you looking to pick up anything in particular? Ya know we have a well stocked stall at the market place. Ah’m heading there now if you want an escort.”

“No you see... I’m a schoolmate of Apple Bloom and Kohaku. And I…”

“And ya’ll are here to see your friends. Well no problem there.” Tilting her hat up Applejack pointed to the house. “Bloom’s up in her room, but she ain’t up for company right now. Kohaku’s always welcome for visitors. He’s out in the south barn. Just over yonder.” AJ pointed to the large brown barn. “You can go, just don’t interrupt his work too much. Now I have to get goin’ Silverlay’s waitin on me and Ah’m late as it is.” AJ smiled and started to gallop toward Ponyville.

Pearl sighed as she looked to the farm. Well maybe Kohaku can direct me to his mom. That’s if he’s not just slacking off like he always does. Making her way to the barn she entered and looked about. Three large pull carts were lined up under a loft with nopony, or rather no fox, in sight. 

“Hello?” Moving in she saw a line of stacked boxes were off to her left. A soft rustling coming from up above caused her to freeze. “Hello?” she repeated her greeting only to once again get no answer. 

Trotting over to the loft stairs the young Pegasus moved her way up to the second floor. Walking about she moved her way through the lines of hay bales. A rustling from behind her made Pearl turn around. Her eyes widened as a large fast moving hay bale moved toward her. Within the span of a second she found herself falling backward off the loft. A quick scream echoed through the barn as she plumed into a large pile of hay.

“Hmm?” Kohaku lifted his head up from the bale and quirked an eyebrow. Pulling out an earbud he leaped up onto the hay and looked over the edge. Only to see the neat pile he had recently brushed up, flattened out and moving. “What the...” Jumping off the edge he landed on one of the carts and then flipped onto the barn floor. 

Moving in closer, Kohaku reached into the moving haystack, feeling around for a moment only to quickly pull his paw back out. Pushing the top part of the hay appart he saw somepony he really didn’t expect. 

“Now I’ve heard about finding needles in the haystack, but this is the first time a farmer might have found a Pearl in one.” He chuckled at his own joke much to Pearl’s annoyance.

“What the buck Kohaku!” Pearl lashed out as she struggled to get out of the pile of hay, only to sink further down. A firm paw gripped the collar of her shirt as two tails wrapped themselves around her front legs. After a minute or two of pulling, Kohaku fished Pearl out of the hay. “Don’t you watch what you're doing before pushing pony’s off a second story loft?”

Chuckling to himself he brushed a few pieces of straw off of Pearl’s hair. “Well, anypony who does go up there knows not to get in the way.” Helping Pearl down off the straw pile he ushered her over to a blanket covered bale. “Besides, what were you doing up there? You're the last pony I ever expected to find in the loft. For that matter what are you doing here at the farm, you’ve never come out this way before. Not even to visit Bloom.” 

“Well, I came here to talk to your mom. But got ushered here instead by Applejack when she found out we go to school together.” Sitting up on the bale looking at the house outside the barn when she felt Kohaku place his paws on her lower legs. “So I thought you…. HEY watch it!” Pearl felt as Kohaku ran his paw up from her ankle up to her thigh. As she yelled she swung her right hoof toward his face.

Without looking up, Kohaku smirked and caught her hoof deftly with his own right paw. Without missing a beat he twisted his paw to the front of her hoof. Using the same forward momentum she swung and pulled her hoof past his head forcing her to lay out on her belly.

“What’s the big Idea you letch? My body is not to be touched like that!” Pearl shouted out looking over her shoulder. “You want to touch a filly, go feel up your Sweetie Belle. Hey I said stop touching me you...” Whatever she was about to say was silenced by one of his three tails wrapped around her muzzle but that didn’t stop her from trying. Her loud muffled mumbles almost echoing in the barn.

“I knew you had a mouth on you, but I thought you had a brain too.” Kohaku sighed as he let go of the one hind leg and started to examine the other one. “I’m not trying to feel you up. Even though you have quite the adequate body for that.” Looking Pearl in the eyes, he chuckled at seeing her face turn red. “I’m checking for injuries. Even falling into a pile of hay can break bones if you're not careful. Just ask Bloom, she broke two of her legs trying to high dive from the top of the barn in an attempt to imitate one of my parkour stunts.”

After examining her legs he spread out her wings and nodded softly “Okay good. Nothing but some minor scratches, put a bit of ointment on them and you’ll be fine.” Removing his tail from her mouth he flopped down on his rump and pushed his back up against the hay bale Pearl was laying on. Reaching into a small bag next to the bale he produced two bright green apples. He placed one down in front of Pearl and took a bite out of the other.

Pearl grumbled a bit to herself at the forced examination. Sighing, she closed her eyes and took a few long deep breaths. She found it sweet that he was concerned about her, yet annoyed that he didn’t even ask before rubbing his paws against her body. She wasn’t about to admit that those paws felt amazing, far different from her pony doctor. And she felt grateful he didn’t do anything lewd that some other boy’s would try. Opening her eyes she watched him bite down into the apple.

“Thanks, for the apple and making sure i’m okay.” Pearl half grumbled out. “But could you say what you're doing before you do it.”

Nodding softly he finished his apple and burned the core with his foxfire until five dry seeds were in his palm. “Sorry, it’s a habit of mine. Comes from my side job in caring for smaller creatures. So you said you were looking for my mom?”

“Yeah, Twilight mentioned that she wanted to talk to me.” Holding the apple in her front hooves she just rolled it a bit. “I’ve been rather worried about it.”

“Mmm.” Kohaku placed the dry seeds in a small jar next to the bag. “Well mama is out at the pharmacy getting pain meds for bloom. She’ll be back in about an hour to help Granny get lunch ready. You're welcome to head to the house, but Bloom’s been in a foul mood lately so it’s best to stay clear or her. I’m sure Granny would enjoy the company though.”

Pearl looked out of the barn door. She had noticed that the entrance to every barn was facing the house. Hmmm. so do I really want to spend time with an irate Bloom, whom i’m not that close too. Or a partly senial old mare who might ask me to help her out with something I don’t wanna do. No thank you. Pearl thought before turning her head back to Kohaku.

“I think i’ll just stay here till your mom arrives.”

Looking up at Pearl, Kohaku just shrugged his shoulders. “Fine by me, just promise you’ll stay out of my way this time. There’s a lot I have to do and now I have less time to do it in.”

Pearl blinked, she had never heard him talk like this before. For the first time, to her at least, he sounded like a born Apple. All work and seriousness, this was most certainly NOT the Kohaku she had come to know and tolerate. No, Kohaku was almost responsible. She even heard the slight annoyance in his voice. She understood why too, she had interrupted him and slowed his work. She simply nodded and watched him head back to the loft. She was about to ask him about all that when she noticed he put his earbuds back in. Shrugging Pearl just watched Kohaku work. Starting with the Hay pile that was flattened out.

Over the course of an hour she watched him. Loading bales of hay into each of the different carts. As he jumped off the loft, catching his front paws on the neatly stacked Hay bales on the middle cart. Then flipped himself forward and landed on his hind paws in front of the crats. Pearl had to keep herself from applauding that acrobatic feat. Blinking she noticed that he started to take his flannel shirt off and hung it up. She couldn’t understand why he did that. While not winter weather it was still rather crisp outside being late fall.

Pearl’s eyes focused on the bandages wrapped up from the center of his belly up to his chest and felt a huge pain of guilt. That’s what she did to him that night. Closing her eyes for a moment she tilted her head to the side and sighed deeply. Unaware that Kohaku looked over at that moment. 

Shifting her gaze back to Kohaku she saw he was still on his hind legs. Stretching out and grabbing a crate the same size as his chest, pulling it in close and slid it onto the wagon. As she watched this motion over and over, Pearl found herself watching his small yet well defined muscles flexing under that short thick fur. Her eyes wandering she stopped and blinked, feeling a flush come over her face. Her eyes locked on how tight his jeans were. 

Who knew jeans could look so good on a boy. Pearl thought to herself as she continued to watch Kohaku work. Shaking her head rapidly, she brought herself out of her wild thoughts. What am I thinking! I’m too young for that kind of thought. Ugh, and on Kohaku no less. He’s not even my type. I don’t even have a type. NO no no no, I will NOT have those thoughts. Especially not on him. Despite her thoughts she never once took her sights off of Kohaku. She didn’t even notice that an adult mare had walked up behind her.

“Enjoyin’ the view? Ah can’t say Ah blame ya.” Buttercup chuckled as Pearl so quickly turned her head around she felt her neck pop. “You wouldn’t be the first lil filly to come around just to stare at one of my boy’s flexin’ and workin’ around here.”

“I ah… I wasn’t.. Well I…” Pearl stammered out only to be met by the adult laughing.

“Ah don’t worry your lil head about it.” Buttercup walked over and placed a hoof on her boy’s shoulder. After Kohaku had pulled his earbuds out he hugged his mom tight. 

Pearl couldn’t hear what they were saying, her ears were still red with her current embarrassment from what she was doing. After a few moments Buttercup walked back to Pearl and motoned with her hoof. 

“Come with me Pearl.”

Pearl could only nod as she followed Buttercup Apple up to the house.


*** 

Pearl sat comfortably at the table while Buttercup worked at the counter, fixing up a small snack tray. After setting it down on the table the Apple mom sat up and looked at the young girl.

“Ah assume Twilight told ya why ah wanted to talk to ya.” 

Nodding softly she took a bowl filled with poached apple slices, coated in caramel syrup and a butter brown sugar crumble on top. “Yeah, she told me.”

“Then there’s no beatin around the bush. Twilight left your punishment up to me. Now Ah know you didn’t mean to hurt mah boy, but you did.”

Pearl groaned and looked down. Nodding softly to herself. “I know. I’m really sorry.”

“Well Ah know you are. Kohaku doesn’t blame ya one bit. He even told me bout that prank. Ah told him off somethin’ fierce. Even he’s not getting away without punishment.”

Pearl couldn’t help but smile at that. She was about to ask what the punishment was but quickly thought better of it. “So, what’s my punishment?”

“Well we need help on the farm. Mah’ daughter’s stupid stunt has left us short hooved. And your attack on Mah boy has limited what he’s able to do. So, you're going to be filling in.” Moving over to a drawer she pulled out a letter and placed it down on the table. “Ah’ve outlined everything here, you give this to Twilight and she’ll take care of everything. And Ah don’t wanna hear you complaining about it.”

“Yes ma’am… I mean no ma’am.” Pearl took the letter and put it in her side bag.

“Good, then Ah’ll be seeing you later tonight.” Buttercup smiled as she walked Pearl to the door.

Pearl was a bit confused at that but didn’t question it. She knew better and no doubt Twilight would explain things to her. Once outside the filly took to the sky as quickly as she could flying toward Twilight’s Castle.


***


Pearl sat in her regular chair as Twilight went over the letter that Buttercup had written. This was the second time she read it. After the first she sent Spike out on an errand. She wanted to read it but knew better than to intrude where she wasn’t supposed to.

“So what does it say?” Pearl sighed out.

“Just what she told you. You're going to be helping out at the Apple farm for one week.” Twilight folded the letter up and stuck it in a small purple box next to her chair.

“But our trip to go see her. How can I do both?” Pearl asked, lightly shifting her hooves back and forth. 

“Easy enough, we’re going to be leaving next week. It’s going to take me that long just to compile everything we need for the journey.” Looking over at the door she watched as at that moment Spike returned and behind him caused Pearl to meep loudly. Her mother Cirrus Storm was standing there with a backpack and two side bags.

“I brought everything you asked me too Twilight.”

“Thank you Cirrus. And thank you again for agreeing to this.”

“Um… agreeing to what exactly?” Pearl’s voice trembled as she looked to her mom and Twilight.

“Well, sense you're going to be working on the farm. We thought it would be a good experience for you to live there too.” Twilight stood up and walked over to Pearl. Putting one hoof on the young girl’s shoulder. “While you are there, you will be treated no differently than Applejack, Apple Bloom, Mac or Kohaku. You will do whatever task is assigned to you without question or complaint. Do I make myself clear, my faithful student.”

Pearl looked to her mom and bit down on her lower lip.

“Pearl dearest, you brought this on yourself. I know the whole story and your father and I discussed this and we both agree this is what is best for you.” Cirrus walked over and kissed the top of her daughter’s head.

“Also Pearl,” Twilight began again. “While you are there, there is a special lesson I want you to learn. Something I feel you have been neglecting almost constantly.”

“What lesson?” Pearl’s head tilted to the side. 

“That is for you to discover. I wouldn’t be much of a teacher if I told you everything now would I?”

Pearl goaned. She hated when her mentor did this, but all she could do was nod. All of Twilight’s lesson’s came with one lesson that was never explained. “So, do I come home first tonight or?” her eyes shifted to the three bags. “I’m going back to spend the night there aren't I?”

“You are. Your first day is tomorrow morning, early tomorrow morning. Spike will be bringing this stuff to the farm. You can spend the evening with your parents but then you’ll go to Apple Acres.”

“Okay, wait, what about my lessons with you and school? I know you pulled me out of school but do I still have my time here?”

“No, that too is part of your punishment. We won't see each other until the day before we head out on our journey. And I expect you to have learned your lesson well my student.” And that was that. Twilight turned away from Pearl and went over to her grand bookshelf as if the filly wasn’t even there anymore. 


***


Pearl walked through the doorway to the Apple home. She was greeted warmly by Applejack and the dark blue mare she knew as Silverlay, Twilight’s younger sister. Pearl was told of Silverlay’s story and still found it a bit odd but didn’t question it. 

“Welcome back Pearl.” Kohaku said as he leaned up against the sofa, dressed up in a dark blue kimono with pink cherry blossoms on it. A large thick book was open in his paws. “Mom’s upstairs waiting for you.”

“Thanks. Um.. what are you reading?” Pearl asked as she moved in a little closer.

“A comprehensive history on unicorn magic.” Kohaku said as he turned the page. “It’s part of my lessons to learn unicorn magic. Something I've always wanted to do.”

“Oh, I never knew that about you.” Pearl said as she looked at the pages, each one was more complex than she’s ever read before. Not unlike the advanced mathematical books Twilight has her reading.

Turning his head to the side he smiled at Pearl. “There’s a lot you don’t know about me. You best head upstairs, mom doesn’t like to be kept waiting.”

“OH right. Okay.” Pearl hung her head low. She was going to miss her own bed at home tonight. Walking up the stairs she found Buttercup outside of a room with Apple Bloom’s cutie mark on it. 

“Welcome to the Apple home Pearl. While you're here, you're going to share Bloom's room with her. So come inside.” Buttercup opened the door and walked in, followed by Pearl.

“Hey Pearl, welcome to our room.” Apple Bloom grumbled out sourly. 

“Bloom darlin, Ah know you're hurting but please be a bit more pleasant to her.” Buttercup said as she shook her head.

Pearl looked about the room. It looked a lot like she imagined Bloom’s room to look like. Shifting her gaze over to her other school mate she saw that one cast was on her lower left leg and another on her front right leg. Pearl just offered a friendly wave as she walked over to the spare bed on the opposite wall from Bloom’s bed. 

“Well Ah’ll leave you to get settled Pearl. Your welcome to come downstairs if you want but Ah recommend you get some rest. We start bright and early around here.”

“Y.. yes ma’am.” Pearl said softly as she sat up on the bed and just lowered her head. Not noticing that Buttercup was leaving. 

“Hey Pearl,” Apple Bloom called from her bed. “Ah’m sorry for mah attitude, Ah just hate being cooped up like this. Not being able to spend time with mah friends.”

“It’s okay, I’m just trying to take this all in. I’m a city girl, what do I know about a farm.”

“Well don’cha worry too much. Ah’m sure they don’t give ya anything too hard to do.”

“Thanks Apple Bloom. If you don't mind I’m going to get ready for bed.” 

Apple Bloom just nodded and went back to her books.

After a quick shower and change of clothes, Pearl layed out in her bed and looked out the window. Saying a quick prayer to Luna she closed her eyes and cried a bit before falling asleep.
> Chapter 2 - Pearl Farming
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“MOM!!” 

The loud country voice shook Pearl from her slumber. Lifting her head up she blinked to find something that quirked her eyebrows. Infront of her was Apple Bloom groaning while Kohaku was nuzzled up against her. His front limbs wrapped around Bloom's body while his head rubbed up against her neck. “Mom!! He’s in here!”

Within the span of a few seconds Buttercup trotted into the room and gave a light chuckle. “Ah so sweet,”

“Yeah well ah wouldn’t mind it so much if it weren't for my injuries.” Apple Bloom huffed out.

“Um, what’s going on?” Pearl asked, rubbing her eye.

“Oh don’t worry hun, go back to sleep. There’s still a few hours before you have to be up.” Buttercup said, pulling Kohaku gently. “Come to mommy,” her voice soft and tender as Kohaku rolled over and flopped onto Buttercup’s back. “That’s my boy. I’ll take him to my room, he can sleep it off there.”

“Thanks mom.” 

“No problem hun, get some rest now.” Buttercup kissed her daughter’s forehead and tucked her back in.

Pearl watched as Buttercup and Kohaku left the room, closing the door behind them. Turning her gaze back to Bloom she just motioned to the door. “What was that? How... why did he get into your bed?”

“It happens a lot around here.” Bloom yawned out and snuggled into her bed. “Usually when he has a nightmare. It mustn't have been too bad if he crawled in bed with me. He usually runs to Mac.”

“Uh, I'm not going to wake up with him in MY bed am I?” Pearl bit down on her lower lip and looked to the door.

“Oh don’t worry, he only goes for family.” Bloom rested her head down and fell back to sleep.

“That’s good then.” Pearl sighed out a bit and laid back down but the sight of seeing Kohaku nuzzling his sister kept her up for a bit longer. I wonder what he has nightmares about? Bah, it’s not any of my business. 

When sleep had finally caught up to her, Pearl felt as if she had just closed her eyes before a hoof lightly rocked her shoulders.

“Pearl dear, time ta wake up.” Buttercup’s sweet voice slowly roused the young filly. 

Lifting her head she looked around while blinking and noticed how dark it is. “This early?”

“Yes dear, we wake very early around here. We’ll see you downstairs in fifteen minutes for Breakfast.” Buttercup smiled as she moved over to Bloom’s bed. 

Shrugging a little she went on her way to get ready.


***


Sitting down at the large table, Pearl looked about. Silverlay and Applejack sat comfortably next to each other off to her right. Mac was across from her tapping his hoof lightly on the table. A light humming came from the kitchen before both Buttercup and Kohaku came out with six bowls of steaming hot rice.

“Rice?” Pearl questioned as she looked up. 

“Yeah we all take turns in deciding breakfast round here.” Silverlay chimed in. Pearl couldn’t get over how much Silverlay still sounded like Twilight. It tugged a bit on her own heart as she missed her mentor already. “Today’s Kohaku’s turn. He always has interesting choices and it’s always a culinary adventure.” 

“But rice?” 

“Yeah just crack open an egg or two, add the soy sauce and mix it together.” Kohaku sat down next to Pearl and prepped his bowl just how he explained. Pearl meeped as he flipped his paw out as two thin sticks appeared. 

“Well now that we’re all here let's get to our assignments,” Buttercup said after taking a few bits of her breakfast. 

“Mac I need you to finish turning the soil in the back nine so tomorrow we can get the plow ready for winter.”

“Eeyup,” Was all Mac’s response between bites of his breakfast.

“Silverlay, AJ. I need you two to finish the late apple harvest then start on clearing out all the dead branches.”

“We’ll get right on that ma,” Applejack nodded 

“That leaves Kohaku and Pearl. The south and cattle barns both need to be cleaned out. Kohaku I need you to show her what needs to be done and then get started on the smaller hoof tools.”

“Hai,” Kohaku nodded as he popped his chopsticks into his mouth.

“I’m working with Kohaku?” Pearl nervously looked to her side as Kohaku who was ignoring her in favor of his breakfast.

“Yes Pearl you are. Is that going to be a problem?” Buttercup gave Pearl a look that the Apple family knew all too well. As each one quickly turned their gaze, all but Kohaku who kept his gaze on what he was eating.

“Uh… no ma’am.”

“Good girl, now finish your breakfast then you and Kohaku can run out to the barn.” Buttercup nodded and sat down and started to eat.

Pearl looked around before down at her bowl of rice. Blinking she saw that two eggs were already mixed inside of it. Wondering for a moment how or when he had done so, she looked to her right and half glared at Kohaku who only smiled at her.

“Trust me you’ll love it.” He whispered at her 

Pearl squirmed a little bit as she looked at her bowl. Leaning down she took a few bites and blinked. The flavor in her mouth exploded on her tongue sending a shiver down her spine. I hate it when he’s right. She grumbled in her thoughts as she ate her breakfast.


***


A half hour after breakfast had started, Kohaku led Pearl down the dark path, he looked at her half stumbling along and chuckled. His ear’s twitching as he listened to her half mumbling.

“It’s cold, it’s dark, I'm tired,” Pearl said under her breath. With it being late fall the morning was bitterly cold and the sun hadn’t even risen yet. She was grateful that Bloom lent her a flannel shirt to keep the morning cold off.

“Relax Pearl, you’ll get used to it by the third day.” 

“I hate those ears of yours,” Pearl grumbled as they walked toward the barn.

“Yeah yeah I know.” Stopping at the barn door he flipped the overhead lights on. “Look, I know this is your punishment and all. But let's try to have a little fun with it.”

“I see none of this as fun. I’ve never once been awake at this hour. And now I have to take orders from you!” 

Kohaku couldn’t help but notice the venom in her voice at that last word. Shaking his head he walked her over next to a large cart. “Don’t worry I’m just going to be showing you what to do. And I’ll be nearby if you have questions or need help.”

“Right,” Pearl yawned out. 

“Okay first things first we have to get this place cleaned up. So first off, we start with the loft.” Snagging a push broom with his tails he bounded up the stairs as Pearl flew up and met him on the top step. Passing the broom off into her hooves he walked to the edge. “Easy enough, just get around all the bales, watch the cords binding them. And sweep everything off this edge into the cart.” 

“I think I can handle sweeping up hay.” 

Kohaku smirked as he leaned into a wooden post. “OH no doubt there. Just don’t over the red lines. Or you’ll trigger our hook and drop system we use to load and unload the carts for orders or storage.”

Sighing deeply Pearl just pushed past him and started to sweep. “Yeah yeah yeah. Anything else?”

“Not really. When you're finished up here, you can start sweeping up down below.” shrugging his shoulders, Kohaku leaped down to the lower level and moved over to a large work bench. 

Pearl watched as Kohaku started to sort through various hoof tools. “Phff. As if I can’t handle something as simple as this. For that matter where does he get off telling me anything.”  

Humming to herself, pearl slowly worked her way through the loft. As she pushed the Pegasus’s leg slipped. Half stumbling forward she stopped herself at the edge. Wiping a hoof across her forehead pearl heard a soft ‘click’ just under her hooves. Looking down, she found herself standing in the red zone Kohaku had warned her to keep clear of. Perking her ears up she heard the sound of a trap door give way.

“OH buck me!” Spreading her wings out, Pearl pushed her hooves not noticing that her shirt had gotten tangled up in an overhead hook. As she flapped her wings slowly to descend, the filly heard a second click from overhead. Yelping out loudly, she was suddenly jerked backwards.

Kohaku looked up and blinked at seeing Pearl dangling like a fish on a line. Putting down his wire brush and cleaning stone he sighed and headed toward the loft. Kohaku bounced up onto the cart and springed himself up onto the second floor. Leaning against the railing he smiled. “So. need help?”

“Funny. Get me down!” Pearl flayed about causing her to spin around like a top. 

Kohaku couldn’t help but laugh as he pulled her down onto the loft and unhooked her. “Not as easy as it looks huh.”

“No,” Pearl grumbled and sat down and sighed deeply. 

“You were doing okay, you just need to watch what you're doing.”

“Right,” Pearl grumbled back and moved off to the other bales and started to push them.

“And Keep your eyes down, once you see the red lines, stay clear of them.”  

Pearl looked at the floorboards and the second she saw the red paint, stopped and smiled. “Thanks Kohaku. I think I can handle it from here.” 

“No problem. I’ll be down there.” 

Pearl couldn’t help but notice he was still laughing from the sight of her dangling like a fish from the rafters. Shaking her head she went back to what he had instructed.

Kohaku smiled up toward the second floor. He watched as Pearl quickly caught on. With a quick nod he went back to cleaning all the dirt and rust off of the small tools in front of him.

As the hours passed, Pearl felt herself panting heavily and the temperature rising. Looking down she understood why Kohaku was working without his shirt the other day. In the flannel shirt she wore, Pearl felt like she was in an oven. After pushing what seemed like an endless amount of hay into the cart she found herself doing the same on the lower level. Sweeping everything into a large pile.

After tidying up all the various brooms, rakes and other poled items. Pearl sat herself opposite of Kohaku at the workbench. Watching his paws methodically working various sided stones over the metal. The sound the stones made and his steady movement was very hypnotic.

“Well since you're done with the morning cores,” Kohaku said with a smile as he looked up at Pearl. Stretching out like a feline he strutted to the door. “I guess I should show you your late morning job, which should last you until late afternoon.”

“Late morning chores? There’s more?” 

“Of course. It’s a gowing farm. Don’t worry this one will be easier.” 

Pearl sighed as she followed him out to another barn which was highly more decorated. Outside were a bunch of grazing cattle. Several of them offered Kohaku a friendly greeting. 

“And here we go. Your job now is to clean out our cattle barn.”

Pearl looked about and groaned louder than she ever thought possible. Every stall was littered with hay all strewn about. Walking about she blinked at seeing the far large cabinet in the corner and felt sick as the scent caught her nose. 

“The brooms are over by door on the wall. Our cows are very well mannered and sweet gal’s. So we make sure that they have clean stalls every day or at least every other day,” Kohaku said, swinging a broom toward Pearl who grabbed it in her front legs. “Just sweep out all the old hay to the piles out back, and you may want to put on Bloom’s work boots,” gesturing to the galoshes next to the brooms. “After you're done sweeping out the stall you pull one of the green bales of hay over there.” Pointing to the pile of hay behind a sliding wall near the barn door. “And pack it neatly in the top right corner of each stall. Make sure you remove the ropes and lay out a new blanket.”

“That doesn't seem too bad,” Pearl smiled but wished she hadn’t spoken when she watched him move to the far corner. 

“After each stall has been cleaned then you need to wash their restroom here. It’s easy enough just use the hose over on the wall and spray everything down the drain.”

“That’s all?”

“That’s all, I’ll come collect you for lunch,” Kohaku nodded as he moved toward the door. 

“Have you done this job before?” Pearl looked over her shoulder.

“A few times, but it’s Bloom who does it regularly.” 

Pearl watched as Kohaku left and leaned on the broom. Looking about she was glad that she didn’t eat anything too heavy for breakfast. Taking a few deep breaths she put on Bloom’s boots, gripped the broom in her hooves and started working. Pushing her way through the first stall, the young pegasus stepped forward, slipped and with a scream landed face down in the dirty hay.

“I think the dungeons or banishment would have been easier,” Pearl moaned as she spat out the soiled hay.


***


Buttercup smiled as she walked into the barn. Looking about she nodded as everything was neat and clean. In the corner at the workbench was her son, slowly and meticulously working a tool over a dual colored stone. 

“Hey mom,” Kohaku smiled up and set his stones down before stretching out. “Lunch time already?”

“Yup, I had some errands to run in town so I got you and Pearl something nice from the Hay Burger.” Looking about, Buttercup sat down. “I take it she’s cleaning up the cattle barn? Shouldn't you be there observing her?”

“I trust her, she did such a good job with the carts I felt she could handle it by herself.” Getting up he nuzzled his mom’s side for a moment but quickly averted his eyes as he caught one of her mother's looks. “But I’ll go get her. See you up at the house.” and with that Kohaku sprinted off out the door.

Dashed across the yard he was only a few feet from the cattle barn and slid to a stop. Despite his best efforts he broke into a gasping laugh at what he saw in front of him. 

Standing there in the open door to the barn, huffing and puffing was Pearl. Half covered in mud, muck and hay. Brown water dripping from her main and tail. “Not… One… Word…” Pounding her hoof into the ground she screamed as loud as she could lifting her head up 

“I hate this place!!. Send me to prison, send me to the farthest reaches of the world. Just for all that is holy please don’t let me do this anymore!!” Pearls hooves pounding on the soft ground as tears fell from her eyes.

Kohaku watched as Pearl slumped to the ground crying as hard as she could. Her face buried in her dirty hooves. Shooing away the cattle he walked up closer and placed a paw on her back gently. “It’s okay Pearl, really it is.”

“Yeah right!” Pearl pulled away from Kohaku and shifted to the side a little more. “I’m a city girl damit, I'm not made for the farming life.”

Kohaku moved closer again and wrapped his left foreleg around her shoulders and pulled her in closer. His tone soft and gentle as his paw lightly held her. Using every trick Fluttershy and his sisters taught him about calming a scared and frightened animal. “I know Pearl, and I understand. Do you think this was any easier for me on my first day?”

“Pah, you were probably a farming prodigy,” Pearl scoffed as she just sat there. Her body was so worn out that she didn’t even move out of his grip. She barely admitted to herself that his touch was quite calming. Her eyes closed, she felt the soft touch of his tail brushing her tears away. 

“Well I can work wonders with plants, but the actual work itself. Everything it takes to keep this farm running. I was a first class bozo.” Kohaku smiled softly. “I couldn’t get anything right. I messed up orders, sent carts to the wrong place. You should have seen me trying to clear out dead branches. It was like paw to paw combat, and I’m sorry to say I lost most of the time.”

“So what happened?” Pearl opened her eyes and looked up at him. A smile slowly appearing on her face.

“As time went on I got better. And my family helped out a lot. Not by doing my job for me, but by not letting me quit. Offering helpful hints and tips.”

“Easy for you, you're built for this. But as I said I’m a city girl.”

“Pearl, I was born and raised in a temple. Literally in the lap of luxury. With my weekend allowance I could have bought this farm and everything in it.” Kohaku smiled at seeing the sudden surprised look on her face. “Didn’t know that huh. When I said princeling fox on Nightmare night, I wasn’t just grandstanding. Our home was larger than Twilight’s palace. Hell you could fit it in our family library.”

Kohaku chuckled as that got a slight giggle out of Pearl.

“Okay so you're a rich boy, you’ve been doing this longer than me.”

“Yes, but the point is I wasn’t that good on my first day. And this is only your first day.” Brushing Pearl’s mane out of her face he leaned in closer. “Answer me this. Knowing all that you’ve done today, do you think you’ll make the same mistakes tomorrow?”

Pearl would have normally pushed Kohaku away. She disliked being this close to him. But the look in his eyes was so vastly different then what she was so used to in town or at school that she just didn’t bother. Thinking for a moment she looked behind her at the Cattle barn. She was certain that she could clean things easier now that she understood what was inside. Looking into Kohaku’s eyes the Pegasus girl shook her head as she spoke with a slight weakness in her voice. “No.” 

“You see, now let's get you cleaned up for lunch. We have an outdoor shower you can use right over there.” Kohaku pointed to the blue building near the house as he led there. “And there should be a fresh set of work clothes in there. Just leave these soiled threads on the ground outside and we’ll clean them up later tonight.” 

“Thanks.” Pearl said, opening the door to the shower house. Watching him walk away she quickly called out. “Kohaku!” Watching as he stopped Pearl half hesitated and stepped closer toward him.

“I don’t get you. You're a pain, you're a goof off at school and around town. You never seem happy unless you're giving me a world class headache or a heart attack. Yet I show up here and you're like a completely different creature. You're responsible, you're diligent, hard working. Halfway sexy in those damn jeans of yours. I have one of the worst days of my life, and you spent more time calming me down and getting my head on straight then anypony else would have. Why!. Why are you like this! I almost killed you, I wanted to kill you. You have more reason to hate me than anypony else. So why. Why are you treating me like this.'' Pearl couldn’t help her tears streaming down her face as her chest felt as if something was pressing down on it.

Kohaku turned around and placed a paw on her cheek. Wiping the tears away with his thumb. “You really don’t know, do you? You should honestly pay closer attention to Twilight-sama’s lessons.” With that, Kohaku turned around and walked away. “You should hurry with that shower, I’d hate for your Hay Burger fries to get cold.”


***


Pearl stood proudly in the center of the cattle barn, she had just finished placing all the new hay in each stall with fresh blankets. Finishing things off with a final sweet through of the entire floor. Hearing a set of hoofs behind her she turned around to see Buttercup walking.

“Well I’ll be, I haven't seen the cattle barn this clean in years.” The Apple mom smiled as she walked up next to Pearl. “We might not have to clean this again for the next few days. Great job, but you didn’t have to go this far.”

“I know,” Pearl said as she blushed a little from being praised. “I guess I just got inspired by Kohaku’s talk earlier.”

“Oh? And what did my boy say to you that got you so inspired.”

“Well he talked about how much of a blunder on his first day of farming.” Pearl giggled at the thought again. “So while I was taking a quick midday shower before lunch. I thought I might try and outdo him and be better on my first day.” Returning the broom she had nearby to its proper place on the wall. Pearl talked about everything Kohaku said to her earlier. Turning around she saw Buttercup shaking her head as laughter erupted in the barn.

“Oh that boy,” Buttercup said and sat down.

“Am I missing something?”

“Not really, it’s just that Kohaku wasn’t that bad. Certainly no worse than you were today, but in no way as bad as he said.” 

“You mean he lied to me?” Pearl grumbled loudly as it slowly evolved into a low growl.

“No, he may have embellished a bit to boost your confidence.”

“I can’t believe he did that. That little…” Pearl took in a long deep breath and growled even louder. “How could he.”

“Well, look around you. Do you think you would have done as well in here had he not done that?”

Pearl took a few moments and looked around. Standing there at the door she thought back to her talk with Kohaku, how she was so eager to quit. Just walk away and take banishment or prison time. Shaking her head she just sighed. Kohaku had told her exactly what she needed to hear when she needed to hear it.

“I just don’t get him, why does he do this? If I didn’t know any better or the fact that he’s with Sweetie Belle I would almost think that he’s in love with me.”

“Well, he might just be. He always talks about you all the time. Mostly about how good of a friend you are.”

“But he’s in love with Sweetie Belle. How can he be in love with me? And for that matter, why. I find the whole Idea sickening.”

“Pearl,” Buttercup placed a hoof on her shoulder. “Love comes in all different forms. Maybe this is something you should discuss with him.”

Pearl just nodded and sighed.

“Come on, you could use another shower and have some free time to rest before dinner and bed. If you like, Kohaku has quite the library in his room. I’m sure he’ll let you read any book you want.”

“Yeah maybe.” Pearl sighed as she walked out with Buttercup, waving her wing to all the Cattle who were just now entering after a long day of grazing and milking.


***


Pearl stood in front of Kohaku’s bedroom door, dressed up in her favorite dragon decorated nightgown. Her hoof was poised just below the cutie mark. Which was rather odd. As all the other doors had one, he had two. One was of a tree with a treble clef and the other just off the side under the leaves, was an apple with three tails. Taking in a long deep breath she knocked three times on the door.

“Come in Pearl!” Came from the other side of the door. Which left her a bit confused as to how he knew it was her.

Walking in she blinked and halted in her tracks. Unlike the rest of the house, which was more farm oriented. This room was pure asian, right down to the paper lined walls and paper lanterns hanging from the ceiling rafters. On a large queen size futon bed was Kohaku, dressed up in a black silken night kimono with pink cherry blossoms. His head was down as his claw traced along the pages of a book.

“I was wondering when you were going to come in. You’ve been standing out there for five minutes.” The fox said without so much as looking up. Once he was finished reading the page he was on he looked up and stretched. “What can I help you with?”

“Well first things first,” Pearl walked up and slugged his shoulder with her hoof. “That’s for lying to me today. Your mother told me about your first days here on the farm.”

“Okay so I embellished a bit. It worked didn’t it?”

“Yes, but that’s not the point.” Signing Pearl sat down at the foot of his bed.

“Is there anything else?” Kohaku closed his book and folded his front legs on it.

“I was wondering if. Well, I could borrow a book to read?” 

“Sure, the ones on the first and second shelves are in ponish. The others are in my native tongue.” Kohaku smiled. “Just be careful, some of them are quite old.”

“I will be.” Pearl smiled as she walked over to the bookshelf. Reading the spines she found books by authors she has never heard of. Or ones so rare that she would never have been able to find if she lived a thousand years. Scanning the shelf she found one book that she had always desired to read. Pulling it from the shelf she scanned the cover, it was definitely worn but in better condition then ones in collector hooves.

‘The Adventures of Draco Wing the Magnificent.’ 

Stories about a brave Pegasus Knight who does battle with dark dragons. Smiling, she opened the cover and double blinked. It was signed and she knew the writing instantly. 

‘To my beloved little brother, may this book lead you down a path of adventure and knowledge. ~Starswirl.’

Turning around she looked at Kohaku. “You know Starswirl the Bearded!”

“Hmm? Yeah Onisan gave me that book when I was five. Your welcome to read it.” Kohaku said without even looking up from his book. “If you like you can take it with you when you leave, if you haven't finished it by then.”

“You’d let me hold on to this valuable book?”

“Yeah, what’s a best friend for if they can’t loan out a book or two,” Kohaku looked up with a smile.

Pearl’s eyes sparkled as she smiled wide. “OH thank you, thank you, thank you!”  Rushing forward she kissed his cheek and dashed out the door which closed behind her. 

Half skipping along to Apple Bloom’s room she suddenly stopped. Realization at what she had done finally caught up with her. A look of sudden horror crossed her face as she groaned. “I kissed him… I kissed Kohaku… I’m gonna be sick.” Groaning, she stoped at the bedroom door and halted again. Looking back to Kohaku’s room she looked at it questionably.

“Best Friend?” her voice a soft whisper as she just shook her head and went inside the room to start reading.
> Chapter 3 - A Three Tailed Suprize
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Kohaku smiled as he put down the sixty thousand grit polish stone inside of the bucket of water next to him. Looking over the large plow, he saw his own reflection looking back at him. He knew that he didn’t have to go so far, but this was his brother's favorite and most used tool. Having belonged to his father before him. So Kohaku did his best to keep it working and looking better then any new one. 

Leaning back against the hay bales he was seated on, the young fox looked out the barn door and watched as Pearl trotted into the chicken coop. A basket swinging back and forth in her mouth as she bopped back and forth to her favorite songs. Over the last few days she had gotten the routine down and was fitting in quite well in the Apple home. But, she complained to Bloom that things were a bit dull as she worked. So Apple Bloom had given Pearl her song player and headset that she wasn’t using at the moment.

“Here we go,” He said and slowly started to count seconds in his head. A grin crossed his lips as a scream erupted and Pearl came flying out of the coop’s door with an army of chickens hot on her tail. “Two minutes, a new record. I keep telling her, don’t touch the chicken queen’s nest.” Shaking his head, Kohaku took a drink from his soda bottle and watched all the chickens as they chased Pearl around the yard.

Kohaku continued to watch the show unfolding in front of him. Pearl ran from the chickens, before she looked behind her for a brief moment. Before he could blink, Pearl crashed into Moo-riella’s rear end while Granny was in the middle of the afternoon milking. The cow mooed out loudly and started to stampede toward the outer fences and toward n Pearl, who had gotten up and continued her dash to escape the Chickens. Kohaku couldn’t help but laugh aloud at seeing his friend now being chased by an angry clucking horde of chickens, and a confused stampede of cattle dashing between apple trees.

Finally when he heard the sound of his big sister yelling out, Kohaku knew he had to end the show. Getting up he just trotted down toward the growing dust cloud from the dual stampede.


***


Pearl groaned as she laid there on her belly across her bed going over what had happened in her head. She had just kicked one orange feather back onto the nest. The next thing she knew she was being chased by a legion of cawing chickens. Then by a stampede of cows, how that happened was beyond her comprehension.

She had lost track of everything until she heard that amazingly loud whistle coming from one source. And that was Kohaku. He gave the cattle and chickens a quick talking too and led them back to where they were supposed to be. He even took over gathering the eggs his mom had asked of her earlier. Pearl had then spent the rest of the day helping Silverlay catalog the apples by size, type and weight. 

Pearl felt rather grateful as he took over with the animals. She didn’t have his knack for handling animals so well. Her mouth was agape as she watched him talk to those who chased her down. His voice was alarmingly musical, soft, soothing and wanting. Reaching down she picked up the book she had borrowed from him a few days earlier. Her hoof ran over the cover. She had barely gotten through the first chapter. Everytime she held it, she thought about the kiss she gave him on the cheek. She was certain he was going to torment her with it the next morning but he acted as if it never happened. 

“Are you still thinkin about that Pearl?” Bloom called out as she hobbled into the room. “Let it go already. So ya kissed my little brother. Big deal. It wasn't’ on the lips now was it?”

“No, I’d still be gagging if it was,” Pearl huffed and tossed the book onto her pillows. Rolling over onto her side she watched Bloom crawl up into her bed. Smiling, she enjoyed talking with Bloom. The pair had grown a little closer over the last few days, talking every night before bed. “I’d love to just forget it, but he’s just so, so... Gah!” Pearl flopped onto her back and stared up at the ceiling.

“Wanna know something, Ah know what your feeling,”  Bloom laid out on her belly looking at her friend and roommate. “The thought of kissing boy’s makes me sick.” 

“Seriously?” Pearl’s ears perked up hearing that. She never would have thought that about Bloom as the farm girl was always so popular with the boys at school.

“Seriously,” Bloom smiled hugging her pillow.

Pearl listened in as Bloom explained her first experience with a boy that she kissed. How after her first date she found herself bent over a hay bale gagging a meer five minutes after the boy had left.

“I’m not sure if it’s the same thing. I’m not looking for a love connection. For some reason colts are just so… repulsive. I mean I’m just so confused, for some reason Kohaku is quite attractive in his own right. So how can I find colts so damn repulsive but one annoying fox attractive?” 

Bloom giggled lightly, she had an answer to that but it wasn’t her place to give it. “Let me ask you something. And I want you to really think about this. Why did you kiss him in the first place?”

Pearl pulled the pillow from her head and sat and looked down at her hooves. “I don’t know. I lost my head when he basically gave me such a valuable book. My body just moved before I knew it.”

“So you just wanted to thank him in some way,” Bloom punched her pillow a few times to loosen it up. Shifting herself around she layed out on her back. “Then that kiss was just a thankyou from a friend. Now stop worrying about it.”

“Did you know he’s attracted to me?” 

Bloom lifted her head up. “What makes you think that?”

“Something your mom said while we were talking a few days ago. I think he might even be in love with me.”

“Let me guess, the whole Idea of a boy being in love with you makes you sick to your stomach? Is that why you're so hung up on having kissed my brother? You're worried that he might get the wrong idea?” Bloom sighed as she just watched Pearl nod her head slowly. Ah knew it, she’s just like me and AJ. Poor girl just doesn’t know it yet. It’s going to be one hell of a surprise when she does find out.

“Well have ya talked to him yet?”

“No, I’m scared to do so. I mean what if I’m right and he does love me that way. How do I turn him down without breaking him apart. And what about Sweetie Belle. How is she going to take this news about him being attracted and in love with me?”

“Well don’t worry about Sweetie Belle, Ah’m sure she already knows.” Bloom held up her hoof to quiet Pearl after seeing a horrified look cross her eyes. “Kohaku tells her everything. And you're not the only Pegasus that he’s attracted to. He also has eyes and hearts for Scootaloo. And let me tell ya this, Sweetie Belle isn’t threatened one little bit.”

“Yeah but…” A sudden knock on the door silenced both fillies as Buttercup entered the room. 

“Okay girls, lights out. Sweet Dreams and see you in the morning.”

“Night mom.”

“Night Mrs Apple.” 

Buttercup smiled at both girls and flipped the light switch.

“You think i’m overthinking all this?” Pearl looked over at Bloom who was now pulling her blanket up.

“Yes Ah do. I suggest tomorrow you talk to Kohaku. Find out first hoof how he feels.”

“Thanks, I’m sorry for troubling you with all of this every night.” Pearl pulled her blanket up and looked down. 

“Don’t worry about it, it’s what friends are for. Sweet Dreams,” Bloom yawned and as she put her head down, fell right to sleep.

Pearl laid there in the dark, the light of the newly formed full moon shining through the window was the only light. Smiling sweetly she closed her eyes only to have them shoot up when she heard a rustling sound, like something walking, coming from above her. Listening for a few moments the noise stopped almost as quickly as it began. Probably nothing. Or I have a very overactive imagination. With that thought sleep claimed Pearl quickly.


***


At breakfast, Pearl loaded her plate with apple pancakes. Her stack was almost as large as Big Mac’s. She licked her lips as she poured out the caramel syrup over the pile. Setting the bottle down, she noticed, for the first time, Kohaku’s seat was vacant. There wasn’t even a plate set out for him. Looking around she saw that nopony was even a bit concerned. Turning her gaze up to the stairs the young pegasus bit down on her lower lips.

Did he oversleep? No couldn’t be, he’s always up so early. Or could he be sick? The thought of seeing her friend sick made her stomach turn a little. Pushing herself back, she felt Buttercup’s soothing hoof on her shoulder. 

“You okay sugarcube?”

Turning around she looked at Buttercup. Pearl was unaware of it but everypony was now looking at her. “Is Kohaku okay? He’s usually down here by now. Or at least way before I am.”

Everypony just chuckled a little and went back to their breakfasts.

“Kohaku is just fine Pearl. Only for the next few days ya won’t see him up so early. It’s nothing you have to worry about. This happens every month.” Taking her hoof from Pearl’s shoulder, Buttercup continued to eat.

“So he’s not sick?” 

“Well kinda yes and kinda no,” Applejack chimed in as she pushed her plate aside. “Ya might say he’s homesick.”

“But this is his home,” Pearl smirked with confidence.

“Yes Pearl, but he had a family before us,” Silverlay dabbed her lips with a napkin as she lowered her fork. “And it’s during this time of the month he misses them the most. He’ll come to us when he’s ready, he always does. But for now, it’s best to just leave him be.” Standing up Silverlay started to magically collect all the empty plates. 

“Ma I know ya already assigned out jobs, but with Kohaku out do ya mind if Silverlay and I handle things here at the farm?” Applejack stretched out a bit.

“Well I don’t mind if Mac doesn’t,” Buttercup smiled as Mac was just shaking his head side to side. “Sense your going to handle things here. Pearl, how would you like to help me with the market today.”

“Uhm, sure. I don’t mind.” Pearl smiled probably wider than she was intending. A day without working in that damn barn. Yes!

“Good, go get on some warmer clothes and I’ll meet you outside in ten minutes.” Buttercup smiled as she went into the kitchen with Silverlay.

Jumping up from her seat she dashed up the stairs and into her shared room. Pulling on a thicker sweater she walked out. Stopping, Pearl looked down toward Kohaku’s room. 

Maybe I should check on him, just to be sure. Pushing open Kohaku’s door, Pearl looked inside. His window was covered with a thick curtain keeping out the light of early morning and keeping the room very dark. Her eyes shifting to the bed she stopped as her eyes widened. There was Kohaku, sleeping half off the bed, upside down. His head firmly pressed onto the floor. 

Letting out a sigh she walked over and grabbed his blankets with her teeth and pulled them down till he was covered. Shaking her head Pearl quietly walked out. Looking over her shoulder she sighed again. How can he possibly sleep like that. Trying to figure him out is driving me crazy. I’d love to talk to him, I guess I’ll have to wait till this afternoon. If he’s awake. Quietly closing Kohaku’s door behind her, Pearl ran off to meet Buttercup.


***


Pearl didn’t think anything could be more boring than the market place. Sitting behind the covered stall, she rearranged all the baked goods to cover the empty spots in the display case. The market wasn't as busy as she thought it might be, she had seen and helped a total of ten ponies in five hours. Because she had to be on hoof for any order that would have to be filled, she couldn’t even listen to her music. 

Looking up, Buttercup humed to herself while making a quick double count of that morning’s takings.

“You holding up okay Pearl?”

“As well as I can.” 

“I know, it’s boring. How about we close early and go to lunch. Does the Hay Burger sound good to you?”

“Really? Yes!” Pearl’s wings twitched. Eager to be out of the stall. 

“Great. How about you get Kohaku? He should be at Twilight's Palace right now. I’m sure he’d love to join us.” 

“OH. uhm okay, sure.” 

“Great I’ll meet you two there at the Hay Burger.” Buttercup called out as Pearl took off to the skys.


***


Pearl practically cooed as the wind blew under her wings. Like all Pegasi she loved being airborne. Having been earthbound over the last week was trying for her, she felt like she was chained up. True she could fly around the farm but only high enough to aid in her jobs. But right now that was behind her. Taking a deep breath, the filly turned to head toward Twilight’s Castle just outside of town. Looking down and saw a familiar green annoyance walking away from the castle on the well traveled path and turning toward the Pegasus district of Ponyville.

“Now where are you off too?” Pearl muttered to herself as she started to follow. Diving lower in altitude so as to not lose him. 

Pearl followed as Kohaku weaved his way through Ponyville. Taking a quick rest on a cloud, Pearl looked down and watched as Kohaku reached the cloud ramp that led upward. True Pegasus Ponies didn’t need it, but it was nice when your wings were too tired to fly. She smirked as Kohaku reached the ramp.

Yeah right, like you can get up that. Pearl thought to herself. As cloudwalking without a spell was impossible. I give you two steps before you fall flat on your face. Giggling she watched him leap out. Leaning closer she expected him to fall through and flat on his face, but huffed as he landed on the cloud with all fours. “Damn, that would have been funny to watch. Now that I think about it, why are you coming to this district.” 

Dashing about along the clouds Pearl followed Kohaku as quietly as she could. She watched as he asked questions of various Pegasus ponies for directions to certain streets. Hiding herself behind a building she watched him move to the larger houses, and one very familiar one.

That’s MY house… why is he going there? Scrunching up her face in a huff she watched as he knocked on the door, only to be greeted by her mother. She couldn’t hear what was being said, keeping her distance because didn’t want to alert him to her presence. But after a quick pleasantry with her mom, Pearl watched as he entered and closed the door behind him.

He’s in my house, he’s with my parents. What in Celestia’s name could he possibly want from my house, or my parents! Pacing back and forth she reared up and slammed her hooves down on the cloud road. Looking over to her home, Pearl flew up and peaked through the kitchen window. There sitting at the table with a glass of milk and a plate of cookies was Kohaku. Across from him was her mom and dad. Her parents were talking about something while Kohaku just munched on cookie after cookie. While she couldn’t hear what they were talking about, she knew whom they were talking about. And that was her. 

With a quick huff Pearl flew away from her way from her home and off toward the Hay Burger. 


***

Pearl stretched out as she pushed her back up against the sofa. The book she got from Kohaku lay open and propped up on a small stand the fox had made for her. Up on the sofa was Kohaku, fiddling with a new set of puzzle rings Silverlay and AJ had given him. The other members of the Apple family were in various chairs or laying out on the floor. Buttercup softly playing her guitar for the entertainment of everyone around.

Her first time spending time in this room she had inquired about a TV. While they do have one the family rarely, if ever, used it. Claiming it took away from family time and that the radio was enough entertainment. Pearl half scoffed back then but now, she understood what they meant. Without the distractions of a Television, she could enjoy their warm company. She felt as if she was at home. 

Looking about she smiled and then turned to her book again. Blinking she felt something push up under her shirt for a few seconds before stopping. Reaching up with a wing she slapped Kohaku’s front leg.

“Kohaku, keep those tails of yours to yourself!” Pearl huffed loudly.

“Huh? What about my tails? They aren't doing anything.”

“Yeah right, just keep them up there.”

“Okay okay,” Kohaku muttered, looking down at her questionably.

Shifting a little bit she let out a little wiggle to get comfortable again. Just as she started reading she felt that familiar pushing up the back of her shirt, going further just past her wings this time.

“Kohaku!! I mean it. Keep your tails OUT OF MY SHIRT!”

Her voice raised so much that everypony else looked over at the two of them.

“What’s going on Sugarcube?” Applejack asked, lifting her head up from Silverlay’s shoulder.

“Kohaku’s shoving his tails up my shirt.” Pearl turned and looked at AJ who looked rather confused. 

“Uh Pearl? My tails are all visible right here.” Kohaku chimed in. waving all three of his tails in the air.

Pearl huffed and turned to look at the three tails and blinked. The movement against her back started again pushing up further and further.

“Uh, if those are your tails there. What’s crawling up my back?” Pearl’s voice half quivering as she felt whatever it was moving around and pushed up through her floof. Looking down Pearl found herself face to face with a white python who flicked it’s pink tongue against her nose.

“Eeeeeeeee….” Pearl’s voice slowly rose and rose in pitch until Kohaku clamped his front paw around her mouth. 

“Please don’t scream, she’s very sensitive.” Reaching out with his other paw, Kohaku slipped it down the front of Pearl’s shirt, much to her displeasure. And slowly started to pull the snake out. 

Pearl watched as inch after inch of that snake crossed her eyes. It was almost as long as she was.

“Come to daddy Miwa,” Kohaku cooed tenderly as the snake curled itself around his leg as he laid it against his body. Letting go of Pearl’s mouth he smiled. “Pearl, this is Miwa, Miwa, this is Pearl.” 

Pearl blinked as the snake just flicked its tongue out. “That’s a snake. What’s a snake doing in here?” Slowly moving herself away she heard Kohaku chuckle. 

“Miwa is my pet. Fluttershy gave her to me. Poor thing was mauled by a mongoose.” Kohaku lightly caressed down Miwa’s scared body. The Snake responded by pushing up against his chest tuft. 

“Kohaku, I thought I told you to keep your pet in her terrarium while Pearl is here?” Buttercup just shook her head.

“I did, she must have gotten lonely and opened it herself. She’s quite resourceful,” Kohaku mewed.

“Well go put her back,” Buttercup firmly.

Pearl smirked to herself at seeing Kohaku’s pouting face as he shouldered his snake and walked upstairs.

“I understand the benefits of having a pet, but why does he have a snake?” Pearl asked, flopping back onto the ground. “Their creepy and slithery and, and,” Pearl closed her eyes and shuddered.

“Well according to eastern tradition. Snakes are a symbol of harvest and good luck. So he thinks by having one around, we’ll have better harvests.” Buttercup chuckled. “A bit silly, but he enjoys having a pet to care for. And since Miwa showed up, we don’t have any more problems with mice.”

Pearl closed her book and laid her head down, and shivered at the thought of what that snake was eating.

“You know Pearl, after tomorrow we’re all going to miss you.” Buttercup stretched out and put down her guitar.

“I know. My last day. I’ve been looking forward to it. I mean not to put down what you all do here. It’s just I really don’t belong on a farm.”

“We know Pearl. And we all understand,” Buttercup giggled as everypony laughed and nodded in agreement. “But despite everything, you’ve done an amazing job here at the farm. If you're ever interested, you can have a summer job here. We would all love having you around.”

Smirking a little Pearl giggled. “I wouldn’t have to live here would I?”

“No, we could work a schedule for you around you living at home.” 

“Well thanks anyway. But no. I’m not a farmer.” 

“Well should you change your mind, our door is always open for you,” Buttercup got up and stretched out. “I know Kohaku wouldn’t mind having you here.” she giggled and teasingly winked at her.

Pearl gave a slight nervous chuckle before nodding. She wanted to talk to Kohaku, but the opportunity had ever shown itself. “Um I’m going to head to bed.” 

“Okay, good night Pearl.”

Pearl’s thoughts were all jumbled as she got ready for bed. Groaning, she punched her hoof into her pillow a few times before hearing the familiar sound of something moving about over her. Lifting her head up she stared at the ceiling just as it stopped. Yawning the Pegasus just shook her head and fell asleep.


***


Pearl humed along as she walked side by side with Buttercup. She felt the set of saddlebags loaded up with needed items from the marketplace bounce up and down as she walked. Looking up she looked at Buttercup, the farm mare widow always did everything to make Pearl feel comfortable. Pearl didn’t miss her mom so much, she was even starting to enjoy these moments. She would be lying to herself if she wasn’t disappointed this was her last day with the Apples. 

As they climbed up onto the porch, Buttercup turned to Pearl and smiled. “Thanks Pearl. With my children off on their own duties today. Having you around has really been wonderful.”

“I’m actually enjoying it myself, Buttercup. I’ll help bring these in.” The young girl flexed her wings and was about to reach for the door when a hoof stopped her.

“Oh no need hun, I can handle things from here. You’ve been working so hard, I’m really proud of you. And I’m sure your parents and Twilight will both be just as proud,” Buttercup smiled as she watched Pearl blush. “But I do need you to take this bag out to Kohaku,” she added, pulling out a light blue sealed package from her saddle bag.

Pearl took the blue bag and set it in her saddle bag after setting down the other bags. “Okay, sure. If I can find him.”

“Oh by now he’s out at Fluttershy’s. Once you're done you can just take the rest of the afternoon off. The two of you can just have some fun.” Buttercup continued to push bag after bag into the front door. “Just remember to be back by nightfall for your final night with us.

“Okay. Thanks,” Pearl called back as she flew off to Fluttershy’s. As she reached the open grassfields she noticed a large piling of animals. Quirking an eyebrow she just shrugged and flew on till she spotted the familiar yellow Pegasus surrounded by smaller critters.

“Hello Fluttershy!” Pearl cheerfully called out as she landed. She had to stifle a laugh as Fluttershy turned around with a feather duster in her mouth. 

After dropping the duster from her mouth, Fluttershy smiled and greeted the young Pegasus warmly with a hug. “Hello there Pearl. Shouldn’t you be at the Apple Farm right now?” 

Pearl shook her head. “Nope Buttercup gave me the afternoon off sense I was doing so well.”

“I see,” Fluttershy sat down as the various animals dashed back and forth. “So what brings you out here?”

“OH well I have to bring this package out to Kohaku.” Looking around she hummed softly to herself. “So where is the three tail pain in the flank?” Pearl smirked as she shifted, making way for a couple of ferrets.

“Now Pearl, he’s not that bad,” Fluttershy shook her head but smiled regardless. “But i’m glad to hear you say that with a gentle voice rather than a mean one. But as for where he is, my little brother is out in the main field. Keeping all the babies company while me and the adults get all the nests and burrows ready before the first snowfall hits us.”

Looking behind her over her shoulder she smirked. “Okay thanks,” Pearl shifted and lifted herself off the ground. 

“Oh no worries. You two play nice now.” Fluttershy nodded as she went back to helping her animals.

Flying back over the fields she circled around in the air, seeing the large pile of animals. She didn’t see any sign of Kohaku. Don’t tell me he’s flaking out on Fluttershy. Not that I wouldn’t put it past him some days. Several feet away from the pileup. She noticed the pile was a large grouping of baby animals. Almost all of them were sleeping. 

“How's the view from up there?” a half muffled voice caught Pearl’s ears.

“Kohaku?” Looking around she circled the large pile and blinked as she noticed a set of paws and the tips of all to familiar tails. “Don’t tell me. You're under the pile.”

“Mostly. It’s actually more comfortable then it looks. And quite warm too.”

Giggling Pearl laid down next to the pile where she assumed Kohaku’s head was. “Your mom sent me with a package for you. Not sure what’s in it, but do you want to come out and get it.”

Within a second a bark colored paw shot out from the pile. Griped the ground and pulled. Not long after Kohaku slid out from under the large pile of baby animals and sat up. One paw brushing off his shirt. “Ah much better. Sorry, they like to cuddle. And with so many, that doesn’t leave a lot of room.”

“Well, it is kinda funny. Here!” Pearl chuckled and handed Kohaku the package. She watched as he teared it open and removed something that looked to be dried. “Um, what is that?”

Opening the bag, Kohaku took a long sniff and purred loud. Pulling out a sheet he grabbed it with his teeth and pulled. “Do you really wanna know?” He asked with his mouth full as he sealed the package back and set it aside. Leaning back he supported himself with a paw as he continued to chew the contents he pulled out.

“OH please tell me that’s not what I think it is…” Pearl held a hoof up to her mouth and groaned. She had heard about it but had never seen it before. Her only answer was Kohaku nodding slowly. “That’s worse than the insects you were eating on Nightmare Night.” 

Swallowing loudly Kohaku looked at Pearl, a baby bunny slowly bouncing from the pile and pulled itself up into Kohaku’s lap. “Pearl. While I live a primarily vegetarian lifestyle. And I do enjoy it. But these teeth aren't made solely for veggies,”  he said with a wide grin, showing off his ‘knives’ “And occasionally I need a certain type of protein. Stuff like this, and those insects. Keep me from tearing into things I really wouldn’t want too,” he said as one of his tails tenderly stroked along the baby bunnies back. 

Pearl noticed his eyes and looked down at the bunny, then back up to her. That was all she needed to know. And the thought sent a horrifying shiver down her spine. “It’s still disgusting.” 

“Yeah, Sweetie Belle’s of the same opinion. She can’t stand it, so I try not to eat these things in front of her. I wouldn’t eat them in front of you but I'm starving. And taking care of these little ones isn’t easy ya know.”

Pearl was about to protest again but she closed her mouth and thought about it. She could forgive him for being so hungry that he would put her through this. Nodding to Kohaku just just kept her eyes on the baby animals. Some of which had come over to her now. “Alright. But after that one, please don’t eat that in front of me again. The insects are negotiable.”

Laughing, Kohaku nodded and swallowed the last bit of his jerky. “Agreed.”

“Kohaku!!” Fluttershy called out as the older Pegasus flew over to the two children. “Oh good you're up. We got the burrows all fixed up so I can take the little ones back now.”

“Great, but keep watch over this little one. She’s got the hiccups,” Kohaku said as he handed a semi jerking baby bunny over to Fluttershy. Who cradled the little one in her hooves tenderly.

“Oh thank you for telling me.”

“Yup. well common Pearl. Lets go. We have the afternoon to ourselves so let's go have some fun.” Kohaku said and started to trot down the path.

Pearl quickly caught up to him and groaned. Looking at him she shook her head but at least she smiled a little. Now she could talk to him, with nopony around. “Kohaku I…” sniffing the air she leaned in to Kohaku and sniffed twice before flinching back. “Ugh, you need a bath. You smell like a wild animal.”

“Yeah, like you're a basket of roses,” Kohaku said and stopped suddenly, causing Pearl to crash into his backside. Looking over his shoulder he smirked. “Hmmm. I know a way we can kill two birds with one stone. Come with me.” 

Pearl didn’t care for that look in his eyes. But he dashed off faster than she could protest. Groaning Pearl followed. Barely keeping the fox in her sights as she followed him through the backwoods of Fluttershy’s home. Stopping she found herself at a very deep and very large lake that steamed.

“Pearl up here!!”

Pearl looked up and found Kohaku up twenty feet on a rocky ledge just barely over the lake. Sighing, she spread her wings and flew up to land next to him. She watched as he had already shed his shirt. “What are you doing.”

“I thought of a way we can flush the dirt from our fur and have a lot of fun doing it.” 

Pearl looked over the edge and back to a bare chested Kohaku, standing there on his hind legs as his tails held on for support. Looking  back to the lake she blinked. “Oh hell to the bucking no. if you think for one moment I’m skinny dipping with you, of all creatures. You're crazier than Discord.”

“OH common Pearl. Where’s your sense of fun?” Kohaku smirked and walked back and sat atop a rock on the ledge. “Are you going to be a stick in the mud all the time?”

“If being a stick in the mud means keeping a sense of sanity. Then yes,” Pearl stomped her hoof down on the rock cliff. 

Sighing Kohaku just walked over and patted his paw against Pearl’s back, just between her wings. “Well okay. I thought you could have some fun in your life. But if this is what you want.” Kohaku bowed slightly and motioned his front legs out toward the cliff. “Feel free to fly back home to a boring shower.”

“I will,” Pearl scoffed and lifted her head like many high society ponies would and walked to the edge. With a jump she spread her wings, and dropped like a stone. Screaming out she clutched at the rock edge and looked up at Kohaku. Who was now standing over her on all fours with a sly smirk on his face. “A little help here?”

“Sure, I’ll help ya.” 

“Oh thank you, thank you, thank you.” Pearl muttered as his paw reached down and gripped her shirt. 

“No problem. After all you can’t bathe with your clothes on.” 

Pearl’s eyes widened as she saw that grin on his face. With a swift pull upward her hooves left the cliff and she was pulled out of her work dress. “You little son of a…” she shouted out before splashing down into the waters of the hot spring. 

“Ooo nice form but a little rough on the landing, she may have to settle for the bronze,” Kohaku said to himself before leaping off the cliff. Tearing off his shorts and swan dived into the lake. As he reached the surface he found paddling the surface, clinging onto a nearby rock. 

“Next time try not to flop when you're diving into a lake. Front legs or hind legs first reduce your surface area and won’t sting as badly. Plus it helps when resurfacing” Kohaku chuckled out, ignoring the venomous look Pearl was giving him.

“How… how… How could you do that to me…” Pearl panted out as she hugged the rock, trying to keep herself covered. “How did you do that to me? I know I didn’t forget how to fly.”

“Yeah remember when I patted your back?” Kohaku watched as Pearl nodded. “Well in that instance I struck a pressure point that disrupts your wings. They’ll be useless for the next hour until it wears off.” pushing off from the rock Kohaku back stroked in the hot waters before rolling over and swam about.

“Why. Why did you do that? I told you I didn’t want to do this.” 

“Pearl, you have to loosen up. If you're that tightly wound up, you're going to snap.” Pushing himself forward with his legs he gripped her front legs. “It’s not like I’m going to do anything to you.”

“And how do I possibly know that. Look at what you just did to me!”

“Pearl,” The young Pegasus was taken aback as his voice became deathly serious. “If I was going to do ANYTHING lewd to you. I could have done it long before now,” Kohaku said as he pulled Pearl out to the center of the lake. Keeping his eyes on hers as he felt her hind legs kick back and forth naturally. “I know pressure points on your body that will basically make you into a living doll. Limp, loose and responsive to every touch I make. Sis was very thorough in teaching me those pleasure points.” 

Pearl couldn’t help but tremble in his touch. His words sending shots of fear down her body. Was this all true, could he really do that to her. Would he? Knowing how he feels about her she gulped. Waiting for that one moment that never came. She felt his front paws soothingly caressing up and down her shoulders as his eyes were steady with hers. She couldn’t help but feel her breathing become easier.

“And have I done anything to you at all, past or present, that makes you think I would do something like that. I mean look at us right now. Look how close you are to me. How do you feel? Scared or safe?”

Pearl opened her mouth to speak the one word her mind was screaming at her. But when no sound came out she turned her head to the side and bit down on her lower lip. It was true enough, if he had that power he could have done it anytime she was at the farm. Particularly on that first day. But he always treated her with respect and care. Like any friend would, these last few moments were excluded. She would love to just knee him and swim away but she couldn’t. 

“Safe…” she whispered out through her teeth.

“I’m sorry what was that?” Kohaku turned his ear toward her.

“I feel safe!” Pearl shouted as loud as she could which caused him to sink into the water and let go of her. 

“Okay then… now once the ringing in my ears stops.”

Pearl couldn’t help but let out a triumphant laugh. As she watched him rub his ears. “You deserve that,” she playfully pushed him on his chest. 

“Yeah maybe I did. And see. You can have fun. I knew you would,” Kohaku chuckled as he treaded water. Looking down at the surface he gave a light whistle. “I was right, not bad.” waving his paw over the water two trays of various colored sand soap’s. 

Taking a deep breath she reared up her hoof, miffed that he peeked at her. Closing her eyes she just lowered it back down. Why was she so surprised, he was a boy after all. At least she knew that she had dignity not too. 

Opening her eyes she found them locked on his chest, with all the fur clinging to him she saw how well defined it was. Looking up she saw that his eyes were closed as he worked a brown sand soap into his hair. Biting down on her lips she just closed her eyes again. No no no, I will not peak. I’m above that. I’m a better pony. I… Oh buck it, he looked at me so why shouldn’t I. I mean it’s not like it’ll mean anything right? 

Opening her eyes again she looked at his chest and down at the waters. Blinking she meeped and stopped moving her legs, slipping under the waters for a moment only to resurface gasping. Her face red and flustered. 

“I was wondering how long you were going to hold out?” Kohaku said as he cupped a large portion of water with his tails and dunked it on his head. 

“You.. it.. Uh..” was all the blushing girl could get out.

“Yes it’s not an illusion,” he said rather monotone, as if he had to explain it so many times.

“eh…” Pearl squeaked.

“Yes she knows about it.”

“Ah..” she squealed louder

“Yes she’s seen it.”

“Ih..”

“And no, that’s NOT the reason she’s with me.” After a brief moment he leaned in and whispered into her ear. “But it certainly didn’t hurt my chances.” 

Pearl groaned and shook her head only to push him away. “I knew I shouldn’t have looked.”

“What it’s not like it means anything to you, right?” Kohaku chuckled and splashed Pearl with a mini wave from his tails. 

“I don’t think i’m ever going to get that image out of my head.” Pearl groaned and half sank till only her eyes were over the water. 

“Look, just don’t think about it. I mean it’s not like i’m going to be thinking about your body.”

“Yeah well it’s a little different for you as opposed to me.”

“OH finally discovered that about yourself have you? Me and Bloom were taking bets about that.”

“Discovered what about me?” Pearl asked as she looked at Kohaku questionably. 

Kohaku just took one look into her eyes and sighed. “Guess not. Look nevermind. Forget I said anything. Let's just wash up and get home. It’s going to be night soon.”

Pearl looked at Kohaku for a moment, wondering just what it was about her that he and bloom were betting about. And that talk about her discovering something about herself. She knew everything about herself. Shrugging Pearl looked at the sky which was getting darker as late afternoon hit. She started to wash herself with the sands. Turning her head back to Kohaku she just smiled. 

Okay i’ll admit it to myself he was right, this was fun. Celestia why do I not see that with him. How is he always so damn right about these things.


***


The walk back to the Apple farm was largely uneventful. She could slowly feel her wings regain their strength. Kohaku was right when he said it would only last a short time. She even felt comfortable to walk side by side with him. 

“Excited about tonight?” Kohaku turned to look at Pearl as they climbed up onto the farmhouse porch. 

“My final night. Of course.” Pearl reared up and placed her front legs on the porch fencing and watched as the sun started to go down. “This whole week has been interesting to say the least.” 

“Yeah, Oh I forgot to mention. Bloom has a surprise for you. She wants you to change into your pj’s and head into your shared room.” 

“Oh? Do you know what the surprise is?”

“Nope, I don’t,” Kohaku said as he opened the front door. “She said your PJ’s are in the shower room. Incase you wanted to wash up. But since we already did that. You’ll just have to change.”

“Okay, I’ll go do that,” Pearl watched as Kohaku walked off toward his room. She wondered what was going on behind his eyes. He sounded so down. But she wasn’t going to let it get her down and find out what that surprise was.

Dashing into the shower room, she quickly changed into her PJ’s and carried her clothes to the room. 

“OH Pearl. I'll take those,” Buttercup said with a smile as she came up the stairs. “I’m doing the wash so I’ll get them clean for you.”

“Oh thanks. Excuse me I have a surprise to see,” Pearl felt like jumping up and down like she did when receiving her Nightmare Night costume. This was very exciting. Taking a deep breath she opened the door and gasped. 

“SURPRISE!!” A large grouping of fillies called out. Standing there she wondered if she walked into the wrong room. Gone were all the dressers and beds and in their places were snack bars. Filled to the brim with everything from chocolate cookies to ice cream. On the floor were several tatami mats with futons all gathered around in a circle. 

Standing there in their PJ’s were Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, Diamond Tiara, and Silverspoon. The five fillies she was the closest too. Not super close but just enough to be on friendly terms with. 

“I… I don’t understand. What’s going on.” 

“Silly it’s a Slumber Party!” Scootaloo smiled as she pulled Pearl into the room.

“Yeah we all thought you’d enjoy something like this.” Diamond Tiara said as she filed her hoof, smiling up at Pearl.

Sweetie Belle walked up to Pearl, who couldn’t help but notice the fire in her eyes. “I’m still not too happy with what you did to my fox. But I’m willing to put that behind me. So what do you think?”

“I… I..” Pearl stammered. She had slumber parties before, but this far surpassed anything she ever thought one could be. Turning to Bloom she just smiled. “How... how did you know this is something I wanted. How could you have thought of this, it’s the best surprise I could ever get.”

“What are you talking about? I didn’t do anything,” Bloom smirked and quirked an eyebrow. “Kohaku was the one who set this all up. He gathered all our friends. Fixed up my room and thought about what snacks to have.”

“He, he did?” Pearl muttered and looked back at the door, tempted to dash out and hug that sweet fox. “Why did he say it was from you though?” Pearl turned around and fell backwards. Sitting there amidst her friends was Kohaku. 

“What, like you would have walked into the room if you knew this was from me.” 

Pearl blinked and looked at Kohaku. Sitting up she slugged him in the shoulder. “That’s for lying to me.” Reaching out she then hugged him tight. “And that's for this. Thank you so much.” Looking around she giggled at all the girls and then pulled herself back. “But this party is for girls only. So if you don’t mind.” Pearl opened the door. Walked behind Kohaku and started to push him out the door.``

“Oh common, I’ve never been to a slumber party. One game?” Kohaku smiled.

Pearl shook her head and slammed the door in his face. Turning around she screamed out at seeing Kohaku sitting there yet again.

“Just one Game? Truth or dare?”

“Kohaku this is for girls only.” Pearl pushed him out the door yet again and slammed it. Turning around only to be met by those Amber eyes a third time. Taking deep breaths she walked to the door and swung it open. “Out!”

“Please?” Kohaku playfully begged. Only to be met with a full unanimous “OUT” from every girl in the room.

“Okay okay, I’m gone.” Kohaku chuckled and walked out of the room, closing the door behind him.

Pearl smiled as she watched him leave. Not that he was gone, but that he had gone this far just for her. Looking about Pearl watched each of the girls starting on some type of fun. Bloom and Tiara were nuzzled together, doing each other’s hooves. Scootaloo, Belle and Spoon were all talking about boys while pilling plates with different sugary snacks. With a deep breath, Pearl just smiled and went to join the trio at the snack bar.
> Chapter 4 - Somewhere Between Friends and Lovers
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Pearl laughed hard as she heard the embarrassingly truthful moment that Silverspoon had just related during the game of Truth and Dare. 

“Oh my, that’s the most hilarious thing I’ve heard,” Pearl’s voice came between fits of laughter.

“Oh don’t laugh too much, it’s your turn now.” Silverspoon grinned as all five girls each turned and looked at Pearl. Their unblinking eyes staring deeply into hers as each one had an identical grin. A grin that seemed eerily creepy and out of place.

Pearl gulped and swallowed. “Okay, shoot.”

“Truth or Dare.” Apple Bloom said with the creepy grin.

“Dare!” Pearl teased out with a smirk.

“OH my Celestia! Girls I just forgot. We have to get her ready! She’s late!” Diamond Tiara called out as she moved behind Pearl and held down her front hooves. 

“Uh ready and late for what now?” Pearl trembled a little as all five of her friends rushed forward.

“Your Wedding!” They all called out in unison.

“My What!!” Pearl cried before she was swarmed by all five fillies. In a few seconds her PJ’s were now a simple white dress. “Uh Girls what’s going on.”

“Common Pearl, your bride-groom waiting for you!” They all said as the girls pushed Pearl to the door of Blooms bedroom.

Being pushed through the open door she found herself in the grand hallway of Twilight’s palace. Next to her was her father crying his eyes out. 

“Oh my little girl, I’m so happy!!” He cried louder as he started to walk her down the aisle. 

Looking around, everypony from Ponyville was there looking at her with the same unblinking eyes and unnerving smiles. Looking over at her father she wondered why he was dressed as the Almighty Zeus, in full toga with a golden wreath on his head and an actual lightning bolt strapped to his back. Looking forward there was Twilight, wearing a Pinkie Pie costume and a balloon crown. Next to her was somecreature bathed in shadow, supposedly her ‘husband’ to be. Her mind screamed at her legs to run away but refused to answer as she got closer and closer to the altar.

Standing there at the Alter the shadowy figure came and sat next to her. Because of the figure’s shape it was impossible to tell if her ‘husband’ was male or female. The creature was well curved but also well muscled. Sitting there with a strong regal heir about it that she found quite attractive. Biting down on her lips she half phased out everything Twilight was saying until one part.

“Pearl, do you take…” the name of the creature next to her was so jumbled it couldn’t even be heard. “As your lawfully wedded mate for as long as you both shall live?”

Pearl opened her mouth to shout NO, but came out only as “I do.”

“Then by the power invested to me by the holy order of Discord. I now pronounce you mates for life. You may kiss the bride!” With that Twilight exploded into a shower of purple mini dragons that flew everywhere.

Pearl turned and looked up. Her ‘mate’ was leaning in closer, it’s lips were on her, she shivered pleasurably. Whomever it was, was a really good kisser. Maybe I can get used to this. Crossed her mind, as she pulled away the young bride opened her eyes. And found herself face to face with Kohaku.


***


Pearl shot up gasping and silently crying out. Clutching the blanket she looked around the darkened room. There were her friends, all sleeping peacefully in their futons. Rubbing her eyes she looked to ether side of her and sighed. 

“Just a dream.” She panted and groaned. Thinking on it for a moment she felt something come up her throat and dashed to the bathroom.

As she heard the flush behind her, pearl stood there at the sink. Spitting water out of her mouth in an attempt to wash the taste of bile out. “Uhhh, that’s the last time I’m EVER testing sweets before bed.” Walking out of the bathroom she hit the lights and looked down the hall. Stopping in front of Kohaku’s room she felt a cool breeze from under the door and an emerald light shimmering through the cracks. 

“No, I’m not going in there. I’ll just be asking for trouble.” Pearl shook her head back and forth and as she took two steps past she sighed. “Screw this, I have to get it off my chest once and for all.” Pushing Kohaku’s door open, she found that his bed was surprisingly vacant.

Stepping in the room, Pearl found the emerald light was from a trio of green flames that slowly circled around Miwa’s terrarium. Keeping the cool air away. Cool air that came from an open window just above Kohaku’s bed. Moving closer she pushed her head out and looked around. Above her she heard a familiar, and now louder rustling. Is that?

Leaping out the window, Pearl spread her wings and floated up while scanning the area.

“Can’t sleep?” an all to familiar voice caught Pearl’s attention causing her to turn around.

Standing there on the roof was Kohaku, dressed only in his Kimono pants. His chest bare to the winds. Arching his head he motioned over toward a small blanket spread out on the pitched roof. Pearl hesitated for a few moments. Her dream fresh and foremost in her mind, but pushing that aside she floated down and rested next to him.

“No, I had a horrible Nightmare.” Pearl watched as Kohaku just nodded. His gaze was on the moon. “It’s been you making all that noise up here the last few nights, wasn't’ it?”

“Yeah that was me, I was trying to find myself a comfortable spot.” Kohaku looked over at Pearl. “If it kept you up or woke you up I’m really sorry. It wasn’t my intention.” 

“No, I was just wondering is all. Why are you up here. It’s really cold.” Pearl said as she tucked her wings against her body. Despite being a pegasus and highly resistant to cold, late autumn nights were getting colder and colder. Readying itself for winter. “Aren't you cold?”

“Hmm? Not really. I have thick fur, plus mother keeps me warm.”

Pearl looked around. “Uh Kohaku, Buttercup isn’t up here. Are you okay?”

“I’m fine, and i’m not talking about my adopted mother.” Kohaku said playfully nudging Pearl. Seeing her shiver slightly, he brought all three of his tails and rested them over her body.

Pearl slightly tensed as she felt those tails up against her body. She opened her mouth to protest but once the soft warmth set in. she practically cooed and rested up against Kohaku’s body. “Oh wow…”

“Hehe, I know right. I told you they were better than a blanket.” His eyes never once left the moon.

“Your mom, you're talking about the Moon?” Pearl kept her eyes focused on his face trying to discern which mom he was talking about.

“The moon? That’s crazy. Our mother is not the moon,”

“Good, at least then I know you're not crazy.”

“Of course not, it’s the Moonlight.”  Kohaku said with a grin.

Pearl quirked an eyebrow when a sparkling caught the side of her eyes. Looking down at his bare chest. His markings were shimmering almost as bright as the light around them. “The moonlight?”

“Mhmm. Would you like to hear the story?”

“Sure why not,” 

Kohaku simply smiled as he started to relate the story about the moon goddess, Tsukuyomi, who found herself a mate amongst the mortal foxes below. And through that mating begat a daughter who became the progenitor of his clan. How each of the daughters born bore the same markings that she herself was born with. The story continued through to her death, where Tsukuyomi took her daughter up and how she became the light of the full moon. Where for three days she would shed her love and warmth to her daughters as they bask her glowing radiance.

Pearl tried hard not to shed a tear as Kohaku ended his story. Seeing his markings shimmer she looked up at the moon. “Is that a true story?”

“Not sure, the story is a few hundred generations old. Our markings always shimmer in the moonlight. And mother’s clan was always known as children of the moon. So it could be true.” Smiling to his friend he just shrugged his shoulders. “All I know is during the full moon, I'm filled with more energy than I know what to do with. And it’s the only time I can spend with my birth mother.” with that he pulled a simple oak box with a decorated crescent moon on it. Opening it up he pulled out a silver crystal as clear as a glass of water.

“It’s beautiful,” Pearl marveled as she looked at the crystal as it spun on the gold chain.

“It was the last gift mother had left us. It was given to my eldest sister Kazumi, who in turn left it to me.” Kohaku sniffed slightly. 

Pearl placed her hoof lightly on Kohaku’s shoulder and looked at him. Unsure of what to say she just let him know that she was there. “Would you like to be alone?”

“No, I don’t mind having you around. I rather enjoy your company.” Kohaku’s tails tenderly hugged Pearl’s body. He felt her tense up a little before relaxing. “So what was it about?”

“Huh?” Pearl blinked as she looked at Kohaku. 

“Your nightmare. What was it about?”

“You sure you want to hear it?”

“Yes, now spill.” 

“Alright alright.” Pearl sighed as she went into the details of her Nightmare. She watched as his focus was solely on her. His eyes never blinked as he listened in.

“And you woke up screaming when you saw me at the altar?”

“I wish…” Pearl shuddered. “There's.. More.” 

“Oh? Do tell.”

“Well, the dream went on to your bedroom.” She groaned through her teeth. “It wasn’t until I was on your bed that I woke up screaming. It was horrible.” 

“Wow, that’s some dream,” Kohaku’s voice was calm and gentle as his paw lightly caressed down over Pearl’s back. “I never thought I'd be that bad in bed. Not with all the tips and tricks my sisters taught me over the course of ten years.”

Pearl just looked at him with wide eyes.

“I know moves and positions that would make the kamasutra jealous.”

“OH gods please stop talking.. The dream never went THAT far,” Pearl groaned as she pushed Kohaku away slightly. She felt him shift as he chuckled a bit. 

“I guessed that much, but I had to tease you a bit. I wouldn’t be me otherwise.” He said and kissed her cheek lightly. “So what do you think brought it on?”

Sighing deeply, Pearl just bowed her head. “I thought it might be the five pieces of chocolate cheesecake I devoured before bed. But I know that’s not it. It’s you. You brought it on.”

“Okay now I’m confused. How did I do that?” Kohaku tilted his head to the side as he looked into her eyes.

“Your mom told me how you feel.”

“Oh. She did?”

“I know you're in love with me!” Pearl shouted out looking up at him. Pulling herself from his grip and warm tails. And stood on the roof in front of him. Looking down into his eyes. “Look. You're a good friend, and a great fox. But i’m not right for you, I’m not looking for a romance. I’m flattered that you feel about me that way. I mean what girl wouldn’t be after getting to know you as I’ve been. But you're with Sweetie Belle. So there’s her feelings to consider. I mean we bathed together, how is she going to feel when she finds THAT out. Then there’s…”

Whatever else Pearl would have said was quickly silenced by one of Kohaku’s paws on her mouth. She blinked as Kohaku just started to laugh aloud shaking his head side to side.

“Pearl, I swear that mind of yours. I think you’ve put the trolly before the pony this time.” Taking a deep breath he cleared his laughter and looked into her eyes. Slowly removing his paw. “I’m not in love with you.”

“But your mom said…”

“That I love you. And I do love you Pearl, but not unlike how you would love your closest and best friend.” Kohaku slowly folded his paws against his chest. “And besides, you have a lot of great qualities, but you don’t have what I'm looking for in a Mate.” 

“I… huh?”

“Well you have the body of a model. The face of an angel. The mind of a scholar. And the mouth of a sailor.” Kohaku smirked as he watched her blush. “You remind me way too much of my neechan Kaede. She knew words that would make sailors blush, and used them quite frequently. And I wouldn’t worry about Sweetie Belle. I’ve already told her about us bathing together. She slugged my shoulder and asked why she wasn’t invited.”

Pearl stood there, her face felt completely blank as her mouth hung open. Feeling deflated she groaned and slumped down. “So I’ve been agonizing about this for days… for nothing.” Letting out a moaning cry, Pearl felt Kohaku’s paws around her shoulder as he pulled her in close to his side. His tails again covering her from the cold. Only now his paw tenderly caressed her back.

“I’m sorry, if I knew this was bothering you so much, I would have mentioned all this earlier.”

“And here I was trying so hard to find a time to tell you all this.”

“Is that why you were tailing me in the Pegasus district the other day? You know your mom was rather disappointed you didn’t come inside.”

“You knew I was following you? How?

“Eeyup,” Kohaku answered with a grin. “Here’s a tip, when tracking a creature with a heightened sense of smell. Stay up wind. Normally I wouldn’t have noticed you. As most Pegasus ponies have a similar smell. But right now, you have the smell of the apple farm.”

“Ugg…” Pearl moaned as she just laid there against Kohaku. Her head dropping to his shoulder. After a few moments she looked up into his eyes. “So, what did you want at my mom and dad’s”

“Oh just getting a little first paw information about you and what your ideal slumber party wish would be.”

“Okay so you went to my parents just to fulfill a wish of mine?”

“Of course, what more wouldn’t I do for my best friend.” 

“I’m your best friend?” Pearl smirked.

“Just like I’m yours,” Kohaku smirked back.

“Hold on there, you are NOT my best friend,” Pearl punched Kohaku’s shoulder, a little harder then she meant to.

“Well lets go off the evidence shall we?” Kohaku smirked and produced a small note pad. 

“First I spent month’s teasing and playing pranks on you, yet you always remained friendly with me. Instead of telling me to Buck off.” 

“Well yeah, but…” Pearl’s voice was cut off as Kohaku continued as if not even hearing her.

“Next, I nearly give you a heart attack on Nightmare night. And in response you almost kill and break me in half. Yet less than an hour later you and I are back to back defending each other from our nightmares.”

“Well sure but…”

“We both understand each other to know what to say. But more importantly what NOT to say to each other. We’ve both seen our friends killed or become lost to us, to know just how fragile we are.” Kohaku watched as Pearl just blushed a little. “Creatures like us are just drawn to each other for support. Not unlike how I helped you out on your first day here at the farm. Keeping you from violating Twilight-sama’s orders. And you were worried enough about me that you came into my room and covered me up with a blanket on the first day of the Full moon.”

“I thought you were asleep.”

“I was, but your scent lingered long enough to know who covered me up when I woke.”

“So I felt sorry for you, big deal.”

“AJ said you were really worried that I might be sick. You have no idea how that warmed my heart.”

“Well…”

“Then there was our time as the hotspring. I left you with so many openings to attack me or just leave right out, but you stayed. You enjoyed yourself as we swam together, you even scrubbed my back for me as I did for you.”

“I was just…”

“And the final Nail in this friendship box. You have a room full of friends downstairs. And yet your up here with me. You could have just walked past my room, but no. you came in. you came up. And you're now laying next to me under my tails. Keeping me company during my loneliness time ever. If that’s not a best friend, what is?”

Pearl opened her mouth to protest but she just watched Kohaku look back up at the moon and closed her mouth. That can’t be true… is it? Do I really see him that way now or have I always seen him that way and just never realized it? Pearl sighed as she thought to herself. She always pictured Twilight as her best friend. They shared so much in common, didn’t they? Or did she really have more in common with this annoying fox?

Thinking back to Twilight, she heard her teacher’s voice loud and clear, just as she did that day her ‘punishment’ was handed down to her. 

“There is a special lesson I want you to learn. Something I feel you have been neglecting almost constantly.”

This can’t possibly be my lesson could it? My friendship with Kohaku? Being his best friend. Or is it to have a best friend. It’s true i’m scared of losing another friend, but it’s not like i’m avoiding it, am I?

“You okay Pearl? You're awfully quiet.” Kohaku placed his paw on her back and looked down at the filly.

“Hmm.. Oh yeah I’m just… thirsty.” Pearl stammered, using the first thing in her thoughts to keep him from guessing what she was thinking.

“Well thankfully I can fix that easily enough.”

Pearl watched as he produced a cider mug by pushing his paw into the roof and lifting it up quickly. She watched with a nervous air as his fingers swirled back and forth until a thick puffy white cloud appeared over the mug. As he flicked a finger against it, Root Beer began to flow and fill the glass. Once full he flicked the cloud again as he flopped into the mug as vanilla ice cream. Pulling a straw out of thin air he plopped it into the glass and slid it toward her. 

Pearl gripped the icy mug and looked up at Kohaku. “Uh.. thanks. How? I’ve only seen Discord do stuff like that.” 

“Who do you think taught it to me?” Kohaku grind.

“You take lessons from Discord?! No wonder you're so good at being annoying.”

“Well I used to. His mom and mine were in the same book and hex club. So once a week our mom’s would talk and discuss various things. I was four so my attention span wasn’t the greatest. But Discord was a good playmate. And one cool teenager. We’d spend hours creating our own little worlds and having various adventures. He even taught me different spells, many of which I still use today because of how practical they can be.” 

“Like this Root Beer float?” 

“Precisely,” he said with a grin.

“What did your mom think of it?” Pearl sipped on her drink slowly, savoring the carbonated goodness.

“Oh she had no issues with it. Father however was of a different opinion. He didn’t think I should have been learning Chaos magic. At least, not as young as I was.”

“Mmm,” Pearl said through her straw. She had a similar opinion as Kohaku’s dad. Chaos magic should NOT be meddled with. But it was rather tasty when used this way.

“Would you like to meet her?” Kohaku held up his moonstone which spun lightly on the chain.

“Who?”

“My mama. Would you like to meet her?”

“Uh isn’t she dead?” Pearl couldn’t help but show her nervousness.

“Yes, but like I said. These three days are the only way I can see her.” Kohaku held up the moonstone crystal. Holding it to his lips he gave it a kiss and spoke several incantations in his native language. Taking in a deep breath he breathed a light puff of foxfire. 

Pearl watched as the crystal started to shimmer brighter and brighter until the light enveloped them both. Half closing her eyes she watched as everything around her changed until she was in the largest room she had ever seen in her life.

The room itself was two stories tall with a balcony half way up, connected to the main floor by a set of stairs. On that second floor were five rooms. Each one marked with a different symbol. Not unlike at the apple farm. The main floor could have easily held the apple home twice over. Various sized pillow-like chairs were positioned in a large circle with the largest one, not unlike a sofa, being in the center.

“Welcome to my home Pearl,” Kohaku said as he laid there on the largest sofa pillow. 

“Well it’s not what I would have expected.” Pearl looked around. Amazed by all the cabinets lining one wall. And the massive photo tree on the other. Turning around to look at Kohaku she gasped and froze in place.

Directly behind Kohaku was the largest fox she ever thought she’d see. Eight hooves high at least. Her fur was the color of the night sky. Her eyes were brilliant liquid silver. The markings along her body matched Kohaku’s perfectly. Only instead of leaves, they were stars and shimmered like moonlight.

“I...I..I..” Pearl stammered as she felt like a newborn foal in the presence of this giant vixen. The power and wisdom radiating from those silver eyes were greater than anything she had felt before. Including all four alicorn princesses combined.

“Pearl. This is my mother. Kiyoko.” 

Pearl watched as the large vixen layed down and nuzzled Kohaku warmly. Picking him up by the scruff of his neck and laying him down between her front legs. The two of them nuzzling each other's necks affectionately. Even from this distance she could hear Kohaku’s purring.

“Greetings Pearl,” Kiyoko said with a smile. Causing the young filly to leap back slightly.

“Whoa. what? I thought this was just an illusion.. Please don’t tell me I’m conversing with a ghost?” Pearl trembled as the two foxes in front of her just laughed together. 

“I never said this was an Illusion Pearl. And she’s no ghost,” Kohaku purred out as his mother fussed over his messy hair. Combing it with her claws.

“My son is right Pearl. I’m not a ghost,” Kiyoko purred herself. “Thinking of me as a living memory. An echo of who I once was. Left behind as a memento for my family to see me as I used to be during the light of the Full Moon.” 

“I see, I’m sorry this is a little more surreal then I was expecting.” 

“What were you expecting?” Kohaku just shook his head at Pearl. “Some old dusty photographs?”

“Well, not that lame but maybe just an illusion of what she looked like.” 

“Certainly sounds like Pony thinking,” Kiyoko reached out with a paw and plucked Pearl up as easily as she could a newborn. Setting the girl down next to Kohaku, the motherly fox combed down her mane. “I wasn’t expecting to be called on twice in two days. My son knows he’s not to overly use this crystal.” 

Kohaku simply blushed and turned his head away. Closing his eyes and groaned.

“Does it have limited usage?” Pearl smirked at Kohaku.

“No, but the time we have is not ideal. Thankfully I knew he would bring you here today so I’m not that upset.”

“You knew I’d be here? How is that possible.”

“Mother is an Oracle, she sees everything that is, was, or will be,” Kohaku said proudly, sitting up straight.

“He’s right, I’ve been one my whole life. It’s how I lived, and what killed me,” Kiyoko sighed out. Putting a finger to Pearl’s lips she just shook her head. “No need to feel sorry for me, little one. All my children came to terms with it, even Kohaku. Although that wasn’t until a year and a half ago when he almost destroyed Ponyville.” A slight smirk was given to her son who just looked away embarrassed. 

Pearl just looked at Kohaku questionably. Wondering just how a little fox like him could destroy such a well guarded royal village. She was about to answer the question when she just saw Kiyoko shake her head.

“But we aren't here to talk about my son. I’m here to talk to you and what your going to be facing soon.”

“What i’m going to be facing?” Pearl trembled a little.

“The Dragon Mother herself. Tiamat. While not a bad dragon out right she never thought much about the lesser species of this planet.”

“Uh. Lesser species?” 

“That’s Tiamat’s way of describing Ponies Pearl,” Kohaku sighed as he laid up against Pearl. His head resting on her back as she sat there looking up at Kiyoko. 

“Oh I see.” Pearl looked behind her at Kohaku, resting there comfortably. For some reason she just shrugged and shook her head with a smile. “So what does that make you and Kohaku if Ponies are a ‘lesser species’

“She refers to us as Elementals. Or Spirit beasts,” Kiyoko smiled. “She was always too respectful of us to refer to our kind in any other way. I think in part she feared what we are capable of. Even more so after Shenlong’s decree came into effect

“Shenlong’s decree? I don’t even know who Shenlong is. Is that another dragon? Or another fox?” Pearl’s wings twitched as she was learning something new.

“At the moment it’s nothing you need to worry about. I know you're nervous about meeting Tiamat. Especially sense Twilight is going and not under an invitation.”

“Well yeah I am. I’m worried something might happen to my teacher. I know Tiamat has a respect for Celestia and Luna. But nothing was ever said about Twilight. What if something happens to her. I don’t want to lose another friend of mine. Especially not her.”

“I know Pearl. And it’s fortunate that you and her share something in common that will not only keep you safe, but her as well.”

“And what’s that?” Pearl rubbed he head trying to figure out just what that was.

“Him.” Kohaku’s mother said, pointing down at Kohaku, who was half sleeping up against Pearl’s body. His tails flipping back and forth.

“Him!? How can he save us?” Pearl groaned feeling this was yet another prank at her expense.

“By simple association my dear girl.” 

Pearl watched as the vixen produced a small scroll and a very old silver feather pen. The young girl watched as a letter seemed to be written, but not in any language she knew about. The letters glowed like moonlight as they flowed onto the page. Once it was finished Kiyoko rolled it up and handed it to Pearl. 

“Present this to Tiamat yourself. It is a reminder of a bargain struck between my mate and Shenlong himself. Not even the Mother of all Dragons will violate this. Woe to her or her children should she try. And if she asks you how you got it or implies that it’s faked. Tell her this, ‘Starsong the Seer sends her regards’ that alone will shut her up. 

“Okay, but what does this say?” Pearl said peeking at the letter.

“Well if you must know.” Kiyoko chuckled as she read what she wrote.

---
To Tiamat, Mother of all Dragons. Dragon Queen of the West.

Before you stands the beloved teacher and best friend of Kohaku Forestsong. Son of Akahiko Skywind. Grand Archmage of the nine lands, Ruler of the Forest Clan. And western Dragon Slayer. 

In regards to the treaty struck with Shenlong, god of all dragons. Dragon King of the East. No harm shall ever befall a kitsune of our clan or those associated with them by any eastern or western dragon. Under penalty of death.
Signed
Kiyoko, Matriarch of the Forest Clan
---

“Now you know what it says. Do not lose this letter. I promise you it will not end well if that were to happen.”

“I won’t, I promise,” Pearl said, clutching the scroll to her chest. Even she could feel the magic in those words through the rolled parchment.

“Good. Now off to bed with you both. You both should be rested for tomorrow.”

“Do we have too?” Kohaku groaned out as he sat up and looked up at his mother.

“Yes,” Kiyoko looked down, matching the gaze from both children who half shrunk under her motherly stare. “Sleep well my lovelies.” Leaning down she kissed both of their foreheads as the room around them faded away like smoke in the wind. Leaving both Kohaku and Pearl seated on the roof. The only proof it had appended was the scroll in Pearl’s arms.

“Well I guess we should head inside,” Kohaku said as he rolled up his blanket and slung it onto his back. Pearl simply too dumbfounded to even speak. 

As Pearl walked to the door in Kohaku’s room she heard him shut the window and started to fix things on his bed. “I can’t believe that just happened.”

“What’s so hard to believe.”

“I was just given the one thing that will save my, OUR teacher. From somecreature that’s been dead for who knows how long.” 

“Hehe, yeah. I know it’s a little surreal. But mother did stuff like this all the time. Past, present, Future. No matter where her clients came from, she always did her best to aid them.” Crawling into his bed Kohaku turned and looked at Pearl. “Try not to worry about it. And go get some sleep. I’ll see you in the morning.” 

“Thanks Kohaku and…” Pearl turned around to properly thank him, but found that he was already fast asleep. Snoring peacefully. Walking over to him she just watched him for a moment or two. Thinking about everything she had learned about him. 

How playful he was. How he was such a hard worker and always put everything he had into the tasks he was assigned. How gentle he was with creatures so much smaller with him. The sight of seeing him with those baby bunnies did make her smile. He was even an amazing singer, his voice livening up any plant life around him. How he had lost so much in his life, but still found ways to keep a smile. A thought finally sparked in her mind. With a grin she leaned down and kissed his cheek. 

“I think I understand what she sees in you now. And she’s a lucky filly” Pearl whispered to her sleeping friend. Slowly and quietly walked out of his room.


***


Pearl stood at the doorway of the Apple home, the sun already high in the air. The family had let her sleep in with her friends. All of whom left already to start their weekend, well all but Sweetie Belle who was currently nuzzled against a tree with Kohaku. Normally Pearl would have just rolled her eyes but she just smiled at her two friends.

“Don’t worry about your stuff. We’ll make sure it gets back to your house. Spike even promised to come back over and help,” Buttercup said as she helped straighten Pearl’s outfit.

“Thanks Buttercup.” After a final hug, Pearl walked off and down the path to Kohaku and Sweetie Belle who were sharing a long deep kiss. Smirking she watched as the kiss broke, Kohaku flopped onto the ground with a stupid smile on his face. Turning to Sweetie Belle, “Does that normally happen?” 

“No, but it’s been a week sense he’s had one of my kisses,” Belle said with a giggle. “Part of his ‘punishment’ for pranking you.”

“Let me guess, he was not allowed to be with you during this past week?” Pearl half laughed as Sweetie Belle nodded. “I wondered what his mom punished him with.”

“Yeah, that was only half of it. Just don’t ask what the other half was.” Kohaku chimed in as his initial euphoria ended. Standing up he nuzzled his head against his girlfriend. “I’ll catch up with you and Scoots later.”

“You better.” Was all Sweetie Belle said before playfully ficking her tail against his nose and walked off. Her fall dress drafting in the wind.

“You okay there romeo?” Pearl smirked at her friend.

“Yeah, lets go.” Kohaku said and started to walk in front of Pearl.

“Wait… you're going too?” Pearl asked as she trotted up next to him.

“Well duh, Twilight asked me to escort you. And she has a few things she wanted to ask me.” Turning away he gave a soft smile.

“Fine. Lead the way.” Pearl sighed out. 

Walking beside Kohaku she felt slightly out of place. Everypony stared at the odd couple. Some even pointed while whispering. 

“I knew it. They all know what I tried to do to you.” Pearl bowed her head. “I wish I could turn invisible.”

“Well it’s a handy trick to have. But I doubt a Pegasus can learn to do it,” Kohaku chuckled, bouncing his shoulder against her. “I’d make you invisible but that’s no way to face your problems.”

“Your right, and Twilight always says you have to face your problems. Oddly enough my parents also say that too.”

“Mhm.” Was all Kohaku’s response as they reached the walkway up to the castle. Nodding a greeting to the pair of guards as they double taped the ground. He watched as the stepping stones appeared and the waterfall’s part. Showing the entrance.

Both Kohaku and Pearl stood in the grand hallway. Taking a deep breath they both savored that smell. Books, shelves upon shelves of books were in many rooms. The two continued on as they heard voices coming from the map room, As they opened the grand double doors. Kohaku and Pearl watched as Celestia and Luna were arguing with Twilight.

“I understand you're both worried but I’m not a little filly anymore. I’ll be just fine.” Twilight argued as she stood there. Looking to the side she saw her two most precious students. “Now if you excuse me I have to see my students.”

“Twilight, we aren't finished with this.” Celestia said with a sharp edge to her voice. “But go deal with your students. Luna and I will be here and we will finish this conversation.”

“Fine.” Twilight turned away from her mentor. She appreciated her concern but hated being treated like she was still in school. “Kohaku, Pearl. Please come into my workroom. We can talk there.” Twilight said opening a side door. Ushering the pair in. 

“So. My students. The week has passed,” Twilight said as she placed a bottle of soda out for both of the two children. “Pearl, I'll be with you in a moment. But first things first. Kohaku. I believe I gave you a special assignment this week. How did it go.”

Taking the soda he popped the cap and started to sip on it. “Well, it wasn’t easy. I mean getting this stick in the mud to open up. I felt as if I would have had better chances turning lead into gold. Something my sister once tried to teach me. But alchemy wasn’t very interesting for a six year old,” Kohaku chuckled along with Twilight.

Pearl shot up and almost choked on her soda. “Wait! I was an assignment!” Looking between Kohaku and Twilight she coughed a bit and blinked, unsure of what to say.

“Pearl, settle down. I’ll explain in a moment,” Twilight said as she pushed Pearl down gently with her hoof. “Please continue Kohaku.”

“Well, after some good luck. And a few engineered events. She finally started to relax a little. Even started having fun. And I have to say, she’s very good when she lets her mane down.” Setting down his bottle of soda he put his front paws down between his legs. Slightly bowing his head. “And it took a little time, but she even started to warm up to me. I’m proud to call her my best friend. And when you two get back, I hope she and I can have a few adventures of our own.”

Pearl looked questionably at Kohaku. Taking a long deep breath she felt words cross along her tongue that would make the sailors her father worked with seem like amateurs. Looking into those liquid amber eyes she opened her mouth to shout them out at him. But only sighed and flopped back. “I’m at a loss as to what to say.” 

“Pearl, I needed to find a way to break through that barrier of yours.” Twilight said and knelt down next to her pegasus student. “Conventional ways were not working, and I needed to do something drastic. Something completely unconventional. And no creature is as unconventional as Kohaku.” 

Pearl looked at her teacher, her mind still trying to form a word to say. 

“I’ve known of your situation with this since you moved to Ponyville. Your parents came to me personally for assistance.” Walking over to her desk she sat behind it. “And knowing both of your pasts, I knew Kohaku would be the one. I’m not saying you still don’t have those issues. But from my reports from Buttercup, and Kohaku himself. I’m glad to see and hear that the two are closer than even I thought you’d be.”

Pearl bit on her lower lip as she listened to Twilight. Looking at Kohaku, she quirked an eyebrow. 

“You’ve always been afraid of losing your friends, not surprising with the tragedy’s you’ve experienced. But Kohaku has those same fears. Albeit in a very different form.”

“You…” Pearl felt her throat go dry. Taking a long gulp of soda she looked at Kohaku “Your scared of losing friends too? I find that hard to believe.” 

“It’s true Pearl.” Kohaku hadn’t moved, his head was still down, his paws clutching the chair he was seated on. Looking up he smiled at his friend. “When you see your friends, what do you see? Do you see yourself growing old with them, experiencing a long healthy life and after a time. Die and reunite with them in the hereafter?”

“Well, yeah in a way.” Pearl looked at Kohaku, wondering where he was going with this. “Don’t you see that?”

“No Pearl, I don’t. When I look at you. Mom, AJ, Mac… even Sweetie Belle.” Kohaku sighed deeply as he wiped a small tear from his cheek. “I won’t ever be able to experience what you will, I”m going to watch all of them grow old in front of me. While I remain untouched by time, in the prime of my adolescence. I’m positive I'll even outlive Spike.”

“What are you saying? Your immortal?” Pearl smirked. Knowing only Alicorns had an immortal lifespan. 

“Not yet. At the moment I only have an extended Lifespan.” Kohaku’s three tails fanned out. “I’m expected to live about a thousand years. Should I perform the right deeds and earn the right. My ninth tail will appear and become a living embodiment of nature. Immune to time itself. Everlasting, Immortal.”

Pearl looked up at Twilight who only nodded slowly “He’s telling you the truth Pearl. All my research and everything Starswirl wrote about his kind confirms this.”

“How can you stand it? I’d be too scared to find a friend.”

“What’s my alternative? Living alone? I did that for two years in the Everfree Forest. It’s a horrible way to live Pearl.”

Pearl sighed. Pushing herself forward, she just hugged Kohaku tight. She smiled a little when she felt his Forelegs around her barrel. Returning the hug.

“I’m glad you two are getting along so well. Come let's head out of here. I’m sure the princess’s are waiting.” Twilight said with a happy laugh. Opening her wings she placed her right one over Kohaku and the left over Pearl. Leading them out into the main hall.

Kohaku smiled as he slipped out from under Twilight’s wings and moved off to the center of the room “I think this is where I’ll leave. I’d rather not face them.”

“Okay Kohaku, but I'm glad to see you trying to work through your issues with them.” Twilight nodded as Kohaku did the same. 

“Yeah, well. Give them my best.” Moving in closer, Kohaku hugged Pearl tight. “Don’t forget, don’t lose this.” Kohaku said, patting her saddle bag.

“I won’t.” Pearl said, hugging him back in return. “I’ll be back soon, promise.” 

“I’ll hold you to it.” Kohaku said as he walked off to the entrance. “Later ladies!” 

Pearl chuckled a little as she turned to go into the Map room only to be stopped by Twilight.

“Hold on Pearl, you don’t want to go in there dressed like that.”

“Like what?”

“Look.” Twilight said and created a magical mirror. 

Scoffing a bit Pearl looked into the mirror and found herself covered, Mane to tail. In hay. Not unlike the first day she worked on the Apple Farm. Taking in a deep breath she shouted. “KOHAKU!!”

Twilight chuckled a bit as she used her magic and made all the hay vanish.

Pearl fuming for a few moments looked to the closed castle entrance. Within a minute her smile returned and found herself laughing with Twilight before sighing. “What more can I expect from my best friend.”

“So Pearl. Now that you know all of this. I need to ask you. Have you learned the lesson I sent you to learn?

Pearl stood there with Twilight. Looking up at her Teacher she just smiled.