> Second Tour
>  by Natedogg2006
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> Recruiting
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

A young stallion sat on his bed as he finished brushing out his mane after a long day and a relaxing shower. The room he now occupied was not opulent by any means, but he exhaled like he couldn't be more comfortable. 

"Officers quarters might not be great, but dang do they sure beat the barracks!" He exclaimed to nopony in particular as he fell back onto the bed. He didn't even bother getting under the covers in his moment of glee, he simply grabbed an edge and rolled, maneuvering to turn himself into a comfortable pony burrito as his head found his pillow. 

"I..." he sighed in contentment, "have definitely earned this."

After a day of pointless ceremony and grueling preparations, he was definitely glad to have finally made it here. He felt his consciousness quickly drifting away as for the first time in a while he finally felt completely...

THUNKTHUNKTHUNK!!!!!

The sudden pounding on his door was enough to make him jolt and end up falling off the side of his new bed. Still being a burrito, he struggled to stand as another series of loud bangs seemed like they might knock the door from its hinges. The strength of the impacts left him with little question as to who it was. The shouting that followed confirmed. 

"Morningstar!!! Don't ignore me! Get out here now, I'm calling a meeting!" The demanding voice of his commanding officer, Fizzlepop Berrytwist, echoed through the room. 

She was clearly being way too impatient, but he still tried to untangle himself quickly. He made it to his hooves and made an immediate move to the door. He'd been dealing with his commanding officer for years and could usually handle her temper, but one fact still remained.

That mare scared the tartarus out of him. 

He made it to the door and managed to open it quickly. "Commander. What's wrong? Do we need to..."

He was silenced with a hoof on either side of his muzzle. "Don't call me that, I'm off the clock."

Morningstar was taken aback by this, attempting to move back in shock but finding the grip too vice-like to do so. So he just started talking instead. "Ush tsh ofsl bnis?"

"Of course it's not official business you fool." She said as she let go of his face. "I'm already officially on leave and you should be resting before your first day as Captain tomorrow." She said this while releasing his face and allowing him to pull back. 

"So what's this about than and why can't it wait until tomorrow?" He had by now calmed down, but an edge of annoyance was creeping into his tone as he rubbed his muzzle where she'd been holding him. 

"I am having a crisis of indecision and I am in need of counsel from ponies to whom I am friendly with."

"Ok great, let me know how that goes." He said this nonchalantly as he turned away to go back to bed. He'd really done this to attempt to remove himself from range of any sudden lashing out his words might cause, but he realized too late that he'd left an opening. He felt a grip on his tail as he was suddenly yanked clear out of the door. 

"That's an order soldier. Let's move." Fizzlepop growled this as she began dragging him down the hall.

"Oh come on, you don't even like me. And I'm in my pj's for Celestia sake." His complaints didn't seem to register as he looked over his shoulder at the mare easily pulling him even as he tried to dig his hooves into the crystal floors. "At least let me close my door or something. Will you be at least a little reasonable?"

Fizzlepop didn't respond, but Morningstar's attention was turned back to where they'd come from as he heard his door closing and some hurried hoofsteps. A butter yellow pegasus was catching up to them in the hall. 

"Good evening Morningstar, sorry if we woke you."

"Hey Fluttershy. Not quite, but another minute and you would have." Fluttershy attempted to make some stuttering apologies and explanations, but he was already working out the situation for himself at this point. "It's Ok, just tell me what level of a freak out this is. Am I sleeping tonight or is she going full Shadow."

"Say that again and you lose this tail." Fizzlepop barked the words but kept walking. 

Fluttershy winced at the implication but spoke. "I'm honestly not sure. She doesn't actually seem all that worried, but she told me she's going to need the help of all her friends to figure something out. Like Twilight does sometimes. It's where she apparently got the idea."

"Great," Morningstar responded dryly. "How long does a typical friendship council meeting go on for?" He asked this while looking over his shoulder and adjusting his hooves. They were leaving the friendship guard academy building and he would have to adjust to now being drug along a dirt path instead of crystal. 

Fluttershy frowned at the question. "They don't really have a set time. Depending on the problem they sometimes turn into sleepovers."

"Great," Morningstar said even more dryly as he continued to watch his commanding officer from over his shoulder. "So I guess I get to show up to my first day as active Captain with no sleep."

Fluttershy gave a sympathetic look even though he couldn't see it at the moment. "I'm sorry, and I really hope that isn't the case. She made me leave Rainbow Dash tied up at my cottage to come with her."

That finally drew his attention away from the mare pulling him. His eyes were wide as he turned back to the pegasus. "She's freaking out so bad that she tied up one Element of Harmony in order to abduct another one."

Seeing his soldier instincts flare up, Fluttershy was quick to correct. "Oh no no no, Rainbow Dash was already tied up when Fizzlepop dropped in so suddenly."

"Oh..... oooooh." He felt a blush come across his cheeks at the words. However the usually skidish mare didn't seem to react as he'd expect. In fact, she seemed almost proud at her declaration. He was going to comment on this, but his words were replaced by a noise of shock as he was suddenly whipped around by his tail before it was released. 

Managing to stay upright, he found himself standing in front of a familiar large neon sign shaped like a berry. Not being a weekend, the bar did not look too busy inside. Both ponies turned to their abductor. She was already storming off. 

"Get a booth and set up a tab. I'll be back soon."

"You're just leaving us here?" Morningstar asked with a hint of indignance.

Fizzlepop turned to direct him a withering gaze. "Would you like to accompany me into the Everfree after dark?"

"Have fun. I'll set up the tab, how about you get the booth Flutters." He was already well on his way into the bar. 

"Oh, ok. Be careful Fizzlepop." Fluttershy said this while both soldiers retreated in opposite directions. 

"I always am." She flashed Fluttershy a confident smile as she went. 

Upon entering the building Fluttershy spotted Morningstar already at the bar chatting with Berrypunch. "You really didn't want to go with her? The Everfree is dangerous at night."

Berrypunch smiled as Morningstar explained. "That was actually our dear former evil tyrant being the sweetheart we all know she is." 

Fluttershy quirked her head at this. "How so?"

Morningstar gave a little shutter as Berrypunch started pouring their drinks. "After basic, I swore on my life I would never, ever, under any circumstance, set hoof in that forest ever again."

Fluttershy seemed surprised by this. "But from what Fizzlepop has told me you were the only reason your class survived the forest."

Berrypunch placed a Shirley Temple in front of Fluttershy before responding to that. "Didn't you once stare down a dragon and make it cry, but less than a year later absolutely refuse to go watch them? At a distance. From cover."

"Point taken," she acknowledged as she took up her drink with her wing. "Thanks Berry," she said as she followed Morningstar who had the rest of the drinks held in his magical aura. It seemed like Berrypunch had managed to keep a booth in the corner ready for them. A rounded one Morningstar was already sliding into, allowing Fluttershy to take the edge spot next to him. "Who's the fourth drink for?" She asked as they sat down. 

"No idea. She just poured the drinks and I don't question the reality breaking weirdos in this town. They're on Fizzlepop's tab, so I don't care." Morningstar said with a shrug. 

"Her regular tab or her secret tab? Because this situation has a very, 'Don't let Twilight find out' feel to it and you know how those two are about paying for each other." Fluttershy mentioned this with a hint of concern. 

"Yeah, I was getting that impression too. Their anniversary is coming up soon. That's why I got my promotion when I did, so I could handle stuff while she's on vacation with Twilight." He took a sip of his drink, only letting a small sigh of contentment escape him. "I assume Berrypunch took care of it, she usually knows what's going on in her bar." He took another long, deep sip.

"So you're thinking this has something to do with their anniversary?" The timid pegasus asked as she took a sip of her nonalcoholic beverage. 

"That would be my guess. I heard it was you that had to deal with this last year when she couldn't figure out a gift for her."

Fluttershy giggled slightly at that. "I handled the initial freak out, but it wasn't me who figured out what gift she would get her then. And it's a little funny, the other girls and I only just got done dealing with Twilight's freak out about their anniversary this year. Of course that was pretty easy in her case since that peace conference came at the perfect time. We more or less just helped her plan them a nice vacation."

"So we have to compete with a dream vacation to a tropical paradise." He grumbled. "Yeah, we're not sleeping. Who actually figured out a good gift for the princess last year? We could always just deflect this off on them." He grumbled this while taking another sip of his drink. 

"It is I who aided dear Fizzlepop in her plight, though I do not believe that we'll help us on this night." Zecora and Fizzlepop seemed to have arrived, the shamare seeming only a little disheveled due to the late hour. 

"Oh dang, it's her." Morningstar said this as Zecora slid into the booth. Fizzlepop slid in next to her across from them as he did his best to not look in the zebras direction. 

Fluttershy was concerned by this. "Morningstar do you..."

"I don't have any problem with, her, being a zebra. My problem is with, her, specifically. The fact that her eyes always feel like they're drilling into my soul and telling her... stuff ponies don't need to know about."

Zecora smirked at the lone stallions distress. "Morningstar my dear friend, I never did wish to offend. If your secret lust for zebras you wished to keep, perhaps you should have been much more discreet."

Morningstar's light fur began to darken quickly at the words. "Like that, she should not have ever been able to figure that out, but the first time I met her she knew in like two seconds. What is with this town?"

"You get used to it, now stop complaining and don't ogle her too much." Fizzlepop settled into her place, taking a look at her drink as she did. She seemed to consider for a moment. "No, we need sweets too. Pinkie Pie!" She suddenly shouted. 

"What's going on Fizzy?"

"Wha!!!???" Morningstar was the only one who seemed to react as the pink party pony suddenly slid out from under the table. Right next to him. 

"We need cupcakes." The stoic mare declared this as if she were ordering a carpet bombing of an enemy position. 

"Oh, that's great. I just so happened to have a few extra." From under the table again the mare produced a tray of four cupcakes. "I've been wanting to hear a true chocohaulics opinion on my new chocolate explosion cupcakes."

"They don't actually explode right?" Fizzlepop deadpanned, even as she was already reaching for the offered tray.

"Of course not silly." Pinkie now slid back down the bench of the rounded booth, but actually came out on the other side. "You all enjoy and let me know what you think. Oh,  and just leave the tray. It'll find its way back to me."

"Thank you Pinkie," Fizzlepop now said casually as she was removing the paper from the treat.

"You're all very welcome," she said as she left the bar. 

The air was only slightly awkward, as it typically was after a visit from Pinkie Pie. "Soooo, still no sign of the reason why were here?" Morningstar was over his shock at Pinkie's sudden appearance as he seemed to be annoyed again. 

"Sweets first." There was no room for challenge in Fizzlepop's voice, and yet he found the resolve to. 

"You already know I don't really like chocolate." He felt slightly put out as the only one not already taking up their treat. 

"There's one for you too Morningstar." It was Fluttershy, nudging the tray to him in the hopes of keeping the peace. 

"Pinkie Pie always checks her references, after all, it is not just i that can discern a ponies preferences." Zecora said this while taking up a cupcake that didn't seem to be made with any chocolate. 

Morningstar eyed the remaining cupcake, then brightened. "It's not even fall, how'd she know I was craving pumpkin spice?" 

An empty cupcake wrapper sat in front of a much more calm looking Fizzlepop. "You were there when I figured out how to use her abilities to sniff out an ambush. Just enjoy and try not to think about it too hard." He proceeded to do so, and immediately let out a hum of contentment. Acknowledging that her friends were enjoying their treats, Fizzlepop decided to proceed. "I'm sure you're are all wondering why I've brought you here tonight. I assure you it's an issue of the utmost importance."

Swallowing the bite he was eating,  Morningstar decided to chime in. "I'd go with lingerie for your anniversary boss. It's both a serious and fun gift, and you both get to enjoy it. The princess will love it."

There was noticable shock from Fluttershy, and even Zecora seemed a little taken aback by the bold words. However, Fizzlepop seemed to not react as she took a sip of her drink. 

"She has plenty of lingerie, thank you Morningstar." Fizzlepop betrayed no emotion with the words. Color seemed to come to Fluttershy's cheeks while Zecora seemed impressed. "But this is a few steps above what I'm getting her for our anniversary. Although I'm sure you're all correct in the assumption that this is about Sparky."

Fluttershy smiled. "I still think it's cute that the two of you still use those nicknames even after three years." Fizzlepop grunted, but couldn't keep a small smile from her lips. "But if that's not what you called us here for, what is it?"

Fizzlepop took another drink to give herself a moment. "That's just the thing. I know exactly what I'm getting her. It's ready even, and I put a lot of time and thought into it to make sure it's really special. I just don't know how to give it to her." She reached her hoof into a pocket of the jacket she wore. She then placed a small black box on the table before them. "I want to ask Twilight to marry me."
> Political Posturing
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There were audible gasps from around the table, followed by an excited squee from Fluttershy. Her wings began flapping of their own accord and Fizzlepop suddenly found soft yellow chest fluff on her face. 

"Oh my goodness I'm so excited for you this is the best news ever I really really really hope Twilight convinces you to wear a wedding dress because that would be so amazing the two of you are going to be so happy together this is so great eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!!!!"

Fizzlepop was only slightly bemused at the fact that she seemed completely unable to remove the dainty forelegs that now had her in a death grip by force. But experience had taught her the method of removing an Element of Harmony who had gotten a little too excited. So once the hug went on for a lot longer than was reasonable, she decided to relent. Her forelegs wrapped around her pegasus friend as she returned the hug. "Thank you so much Fluttershy. But we are about to hit the ceiling."

This seemed to catch the excited mare off guard, causing her to loosen the hug and take a look around. She realized that in her excitement her wings had apparently not stopped flapping after tackling Fizzlepop in her seat for the hug. In doing so she had subsequently drug her out of her seat, vertically. 

Fluttershy smiled sheepishly as her wings now slowed and she gently placed her friend on the floor next to her seat, allowing her to retake it with a gentle laugh. She took her own seat after, managing to keep her blush to a minimum. "Sorry, I'm just so happy for you. Both of you. I think you're both really good influences on each other."

"The two of you are meant to be one, the might of you together is second to none. And this is not just in a fight, I've seen your ability together to make things right." Zecora raised her glass in acknowledgment. 

"I think it's great too boss, all jokes aside for a moment," Morningstar added, flashing her a genuine smile. "But it seems like you know what you want to do, so what did you need us for?"

Fizzlepop seemed to be processing their words for a moment. She fought back some heat coming to her face before responding. "Like I said, I want to ask her, I just don't have any idea on how to do it. How to do it right I mean." She scrunched up her face as the heat threatened her cheeks once again. "You're all my best friends. Even if you don't have any good ideas, I still value your council on this matter."

The beginnings of another squee could be heard, but Fluttershy's excitement was this time met with a raised hoof in front of her and a hoof each on her shoulders to hold her in place. She blushed harder, but cleared her throat as she began. "I'm under control this time. I was just going to mention that you might be overlooking a simple solution to this. One we kind of all forget about since we're so close to Twilight."

Fizzlepop narrowed her eyes in thought. "And just what is that? I make it a point to remind myself that I've found love well above my station so I don't start taking my current life for granted."

Fluttershy smiled a smile that would look more at home on Pinkie Pie. "Actually, this is probably one of the weird things about dating Twilight. Something that not noticing actually makes you a better marefriend." Zecora nodded in understanding while the resident soldiers still seemed confused. "You're about to ask a Princess to marry you!"

Morningstar's eyes widened in realization as he turned to his commanding officer. "Oh right boss, is this even legal for you?"

"Yes, I checked. Five times. And exchanged several correspondences with Prince Shining Armor. If Twilight says yes than the only thing that could stop it would be literally every other princess objecting."

"That doesn't seem likely to me, but what has your deeper perspective allowed you to see?" Zecora asked. 

"Shining is trying to downplay it, but I'm pretty sure Cadance is already planning our wedding. And reception. And honeymoon. And about five baby showers and I'm not even sure how that works. But what I'm saying is, as long as Twilight says yes..."

The whole table decided not to comment on the very out of place, very shy smile that Fizzlepop couldn't keep off of her face at the moment. Fluttershy decided to reach out and take the mares nervously tapping forehooves in her own. "I'm one hundred percent sure she'll say yes. She loves you and the both of you are so lucky to have found one another."

Fizzlepop removed one hoof so she could hastily run a foreleg across her eyes. "Thanks. I needed that." The other occupants of the table were quiet as their hooves parted. She took a steadying breath, then one of her forehooves shot out. Morningstar rolled his eyes as it ended up pointing at him. "One word of this to the troops and I'll boil you in oil and feed you to my timberwolves."

"Oh, like no pony knows you're actually a sweet heart." He smiled mockingly as Fizzlepop straightened up in her seat. He decided to change the subject. "So what I think Fluttershy is saying is that you should do a big proposal like in a fantasy novel?"

Fizzlepop rolled her eyes at the deflection, but it made Fluttershy brighten again as she elaborated. "Yes, it's already the perfect setup. You'll both be in some of your most elegant outfits, and they'll be so many important creatures to witness. It will be like declaring your love to the whole world at once."

"Doesn't sound like a bad idea boss. What do you think?" Morningstar looked to see his commanding officer giving him a perplexed look. 

"Fluttershy is a civilian, so I wouldn't expect her to understand. But you have no excuse."

Seeing Morningstar's  confusion, Zecora decided to elaborate. "Fairytales end much differently than in a book, for most royal unions there is a hook."

"Ah, right. That is a thing isn't it." Morningstar conceded. 

"I know fairytales aren't real, but are you saying royal unions never get real happy endings? Because we already know that's not true." Fluttershy inquired, looking a little disheartened. 

Fizzlepop shrugged as she took a drink from her glass. "I'm sure some situations like that really happen. But for the most part making a grand gesture like that is a political move, not an act of love. And it would be even worse for me."

"Oh right," Morningstar confirmed with a slight chuckle. "A political marriage between a hero princess and a warlord. Borders would be getting fortified in a hurry."

Fluttershy now looked very disheartened. "B, but that's not what it is at all. You're not evil anymore, in fact I don't think you ever really were."

"But I have a high enough profile as a villain that leaders will recognize me, and many have an ax they wish to grind with me as well. 

"Even if it was at another's request, I'm sure you must have caused much unrest. And since this is so, I wonder what is your ultimate goal?"

".... I'm basically going to this conference to act as bait." Fizzlepop admitted with some hesitation.

Fluttershy looked shocked at this. "Twilight is using you as bait? For what?"

"No, this was my idea. And it took me a while to convince Sparky to go along with it. But it is how I ended up becoming the head of security for the event even though Equestria isn't hosting."

Morningstar seemed impressed by this revelation. "Ha, than no way are you going to have the chance to propose there. You're gonna be real busy."

Fizzlepop gave an evil laugh. "You have no idea."


***


Commander Berrytwist walked the perimeter of the banquet hall. Within the four walls of this very building currently we're over three hundred of the most important creatures in the world. Kings, Queens, Princesses, Princes, Barons, Dukes, and even a High Chieftain. There was enough authority in the room to throw off the order of the entire planet if even one thing went wrong. 

And it was her sole responsibility to make sure that didn't happen. 

She turned a corner, squaring her stride as if on ceremony. Keeping the look of being completely in control was very important. That was why the number of visible guards in the room was minimal. And why she needed to make sure those that were hidden were not slacking off in their hidden positions. And she had to do that without appearing to do so. Everything had to be done with precise, exacting detail. 

And yet she had to suppress a smirk. Every detail was exactly right. No creature would be stepping out of line on her watch. She took another sharp turn, coming to a hault at a spot that overlooked the entire hall. Checking in each direction, she moved with authority to assure to all in attendance that they were as safe as the could possibly...

"Do you have to swish it with every move you make?"

Fizzlepop let the smirk break onto her face just the slightest bit. "I have no idea what you are talking about Princess Sparkle."

"Oh give it a rest Fizz. Almost every creature in the room has figured it out already. We aren't exactly subtle you know." She gave her marefriend a quick nuzzle, one she didn't respond to. 

Fizzlepop turned on a hoof again, now proceeding to march away from her marefriend. "Well maybe it wouldn't be so obvious if you didn't keep interrupting my rounds."

Twilight scoffed at that while rolling her eyes and walking quickly to keep pace with the taller mares long, confident stride. "You mean your excuse to show off your cape and how cool you look in it."

"Excuse me your highness, but this is a cloak. It is also official military issue and has absolutely nothing to do with looking 'cool'."

"If that's true, why do you insist on swishing it every time you turn? Or stop? Or sometimes when you're just standing idly?"

"If her highness has some issue with militaristic mannerisms," she now turned very dramatically on her hoof. The heavy purple cloak fluttered around her as she did, revealing the pink lining underneath. She now stood face to face with the mare of much higher rank than her, but still gave a smug smirk. "Than maybe you shouldn't be dating a soldier."

The princess didn't back down from the display. "You look really good wearing my colors." She flashed her a look with half lidded eyes. 

Fizzlepop turned away quickly, and definitely not to hide a blush most ponies wouldn't catch through her fur anyway. "Indeed," she stated, showing her confidence. "I'm thankful you had Rarity come in as an outside contractor when the royal tailors were deciding on the dress uniforms for the Friendship Guard."

Twilight snorted a laugh. "Oh come on. You didn't look that ridiculous in Celestia's white and gold designs."

Fizzlepop rolled her eyes. "I could have pulled off Luna's dark purple and nightshade black just fine though."

"No. Tempest Shadow would have made the edge lord look work. My gentle and sweet Fizzlepop needed some softer colors." Fizzlepop rolled her eyes at the loving look Twilight now gave her. "But still, why did you go with the cape."

Fizzlepop turned her nose up higher as she continued her rounds. "It is a military issue, class A, dress cloak. And although they have fallen out of fashion in the current era, cloaks are an extremely functional and practical form of clothing."

"That doesn't explain why you keep swishing it every chance you get."  

"That is called commitment to the look. And you of all ponies know i like to commit." Fizzlepop now turned and smiled smugly. She noticed Twilight's ear twitch just slightly as her expression changed to one of understanding. 

"Exactly how many hidden blades does that thing let you carry?"

A look only Twilight would recognize now came to Fizzlepop's face. Twilight could see barely contained glee behind her marefriends impressive mask of stoicism. "So, so many," she said under her breath as a smile threatened her features. "Just... so many. You'd never be able to find them all." She turned away again, swishing her cloak but then readjusted it so it hugged around her tighter.

Twilight couldn't help but to laugh out loud at the behavior. "You might make it look a lot cooler, but secretly your a bigger dork than me."

"Yes, I am totally a weapons nerd. I could tell you the history of each type of weapon I'm carrying right now, although it would take a few hours."

Twilight responded with a distinct purr to her voice. "Oh, I can't wait for this conference to end so we can get to our anniversary vacation."

Fizzlepop chuckled as she came to a stop. "Yes, but it does look like we might be delayed a little longer."

Twilight looked confused, then rolled her eyes. "Really, again?"

"Uh-huh. You mind putting up a three o'clock?"

Twilight's horn flared to life. A moment later a large battle mace made loud,  but ineffective impact with an invisible barrier to the pairs right side. Both casually looked over, then up,  at a massive minotaur drawing the mace up for what looked like another swing. Neither mare betrayed any reaction as instead he began what had to be a practiced speech. 

"Terror of the east, Tempest Shadow. Long have I waited for the chance to settle the score between us. Prepare yourself to face your ultimate defeat at the hands of Golden Grit." The minotaur stood proudly as he posed with his weapon raised. 

Fizzlepop shook her head slowly. "Hey Grit. I like the new mace." He seemed taken aback by the mare's nonchalant tone as she turned to face him. "But while it is authorize for the dignitaries bodyguards to carry weapons, unprovoked attacks are ground for ejection pending consideration of the head of security."

He leveled the weapon at Fizzlepop, confirming the mares suspicions that it was indeed larger than her entire body. "You! Your mere existence provokes me. I swore an oath after our last encounter that I would avenge myself and my troops. By my hand, Tempest Shadow will be no more."

He swung the weapon again, it now coming down on top of her. Again, it bounced harmlessly off the barrier. "Somepony already beat you to that unfortunately. But if you wanted to 'even' the score I've got bad news for you. I believe your down about four battles to me, and there's only a few time slots left."

He seemed to be very confused as she reached under her cloak and produced a scroll. "What are you talking about?" His voice had lost a lot of the grandeur at this point. 

"Time slots, for officially sanctioned duels. Did you not read the itinerary for the event?"

He went back into a battle stance and his voice perked back up. "The only reason I'm here at all was that I'd heard rumors that you might be here. I have no other reason to be here than to end you."

"Well that will have to wait. I'm booked at: 1:30, 1:45, 2:00, 2:30, 3:00, 3:30, and 3:45. So, anything after 4:00 will work. Preferably later, I'm going to be sore."

"Actually Fizz sweety, I think the later spots were taken. Pharynx got challenged to another couple. He still won't catch up to you though." Twilight said this while producing a quill and marking on the parchment. 

"Dang. So 4:00 or 4:15. Can I put you down for 4:15?" She asked this while flashing the now very confused minotaur a clearly unpracticed pleading smile. 

"That.... will be fine." He watched as Fizzlepop wrote on the parchment as well. "I'm not sure what's going on right now."

"Allow me to properly introduce myself." She held out a hoof. "Fizzlepop Berrytwist. Commander of Princess Twilight Sparkle's Friendship Guard. I am also her personal bodyguard and, as she's been very indiscreet about, her marefriend." The minotaur's jaw dropped, as did the mace in his grip. Violent sparking came forth from Fizzlepop's horn as she snagged it before it hit the ground. "I'm also the head of security here, so please refrain from causing any other disturbances. I'll grant you leeway on your attacks only because I know you have reason to distrust me. But that's why I proposed the dueling system in the first place." She lifted the mace up to where he could grab it again, betraying none of the pain such an action should be causing her. 

He took it back into his grip. "Uh... thank you?" 

"You're very welcome. I look forward to seeing you at our duel. Now if you'll excuse us. If you're here than I'm sure her highness would love to meet king Platinum Core. Shall we m'lady." Twilight just giggled as Fizzlepop bowed before her to present her hoof. They left Golden Grit still confused where he was. 

"Ok, so it was a really useful tactic to leak the fact that you are here. A lot of reclusive realms came to these peace talks just because of that. I still don't like that you're  putting your neck on the line for it though."

"Official duels. That means regulation. Padded weapons, extra armor, even a point system. I'll be sore tonight, but I'll be fine in the morning. Promise."

Twilight eyed her skeptically. "Did you and Zecora finally figure out how to make that muscle relaxer?"

Fizzlepop smiled triumphantly. "First batch that works right. We even figured out how to minimize the paralysis to about three minutes."

"I should have never introduced you two." Her hoof went to her forehead as she walked, but she quickly straightened up. "That being said, I'm going to want a full body massage the moment we get home."

Fizzlepop couldn't help but notice some color come to Twilight's cheeks. She smiled wickedly. "Yes my Princess."
> Nerding Out
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"So it took all three of you over six months to make it work?" Morningstar asked this to the two remaining mares at the table who both nodded their heads. "Why in the name of Celestia's flaming flanks did any of you think it was a good idea to try to domesticate freaking timberwolves in the first place?"

Fluttershy decided to explain. "Well personally I thought it was a great opportunity. If timberwolves can be domesticated, than it means they're sentient enough for them to be nice to other animals too. And I really like it when animals can get along. Zecora tagged along because she thought it would be fun and she knows more about dealing with timberwolves than anypony. And Fizzlepop.... well, she just said she wanted at least one of the rumors about her to be true." She noticed the sudden shock on his face. "Not that she's ever fed ponies to them. It turns out they don't even eat meat, they just attack if they feel like their territory is being threatened."

"Ah yes, her good boys Rip and Tear. She named them so fearcely, yet made them as cuddly as a teddy bear." Zecora smiled at the memory. "It was a fierce battle to be sure, but one that was a joy to endure. In the end it was a pleasure, Fizzlepop always finds the best adventure."

"Twilight is having a fun time studying them as well. Apparently there is no scientific research into the nature or biology of timberwolves to speak of. At least three scientific journals are fighting for the right to be the first to publish her writings." Fizzlepop was coming back over, floating all of their refilled drinks in her gently crackling magic. "But back to the task at hoof. Were there any other suggestions?"

"Wait," Morningstar cut in. "I just have to ask." Fizzlepop nodded her approval. "Did you name them Rip and Tear so ponies you introduce them to will think you're giving them a command?"

"I did, yes." There were laughs of approval at that. "Now what am I going to do about Twilight?" The occupants of the table seemed to think on that for a moment. 

"This island that you are going to, are there not more intellectual things to do?" Zecora inquired.

"I don't know the whole story, but apparently it is a very historically significant place. We already have a few tours scheduled to see some sights." Fizzlepop clarified. 

"Hey, I think Zecora might be onto something there." Both mares turned their heads in question. 

"Don't just agree with her because you still have the hots for zebras." Fizzlepop said this casually as she took a sip from her drink. 

"That's not the... I mean, I'm not so one note that that's the only reason I might like a mare." He felt eyes on him from around the table but refused to give them the satisfaction. "Kinda like you, I also like smart mares. Isn't there some historically significant and or touristy place where you can pop the question. It would be cheesey, but let's face facts, you two are pretty cheesey together."

Zecora giggled as she added. "We are agreed, as I have said. So have we put this matter to bed?"

Fizzlepop grumbled slightly at this. "I wish it had been that easy. Something like that was my first idea actually. But unfortunately Sparky has been unreasonably secretive about exactly what we're doing." She grumbled some more before her gaze drifted to another occupant of the table. "Do you have any idea what she has planned Fluttershy?"

"Nope."

The rest of the table stared at the surprisingly short and final words of the timid pegasus. She was just casually sipping her drink, yet no one dared to push the issue. 

"So no ground there. I just don't know where I might be able to pull it off." Fizzlepop grumbled more, but this time there was a small smile as she seemed to think. "Not to mention, I don't know if I'll have a proper opportunity."

"Oh no boss, don't tell me you've already had too much to drink. I've seen enough of that particular smile to know what it means. And I deal with quite enough of your adorkable nerd talk when we go drinking, thank you very much."

Fizzlepop took another deep pull from her drink, leaving the cup to linger in front of her face. "I have no idea what you're talking about."

"I'll get Berrypunch, we'll compare notes. You always do it when you get tipsy, so I'm sure she's got some stories even I haven't heard." Fizzlepop glared as if to challenge him to continue his statement. He flashed a smug smirk before putting on a fake voice, slightly high pitched and slightly slurred. "She's just such a dork, and it is soooooo cute."

"I'm busting down your rank the moment I get back." She growled this while clearly trying to force color out of her cheeks. "But you are right. She's a very adorable nerd. And I wouldn't want to get in the way of her being the adorable nerd I know she is. So who knows if I'd get a chance. She might be too distracted to even notice if I tried."


***


"Come on Fizz, we're gonna be late."

Fizzlepop could only laugh. She had largely recovered from the peace conference, as well as recovering from recovering from the peace conference. Despite this she was not the fastest moving pony in the world at the moment. But knowing her marefriend, she didn't mind. 

"Really Sparky, like I don't already know we're running fifteen to thirty minutes early just to make sure there's no chance whatsoever that we might be late."

Twilight was prancing along in front of her as they were on their way to their first tour of the day.  Even by the standards of the excitable nerd she seemed to be going way overboard. "I know I know I know," she exclaimed, now prancing circles around her stoic marefriend, which made her smile wider. "But I've got a special surprise and I just can't wait for you to see it."

Fizzlepop giggled at her marefriend's excitement. "Honestly, this island isn't that big. Just how historic can it really be for us to be able to spend an entire day learning about its history?"

They seemed to be coming to the top of a ridge, one which Fizzlepop presumed was hiding whatever it was they were there to see. Twilight now slowed her prancing, coming to an enthusiastic trot next to her marefriend. "Oh, you'd be surprised. In fact, I think you're going to be very surprised."

Fizzlepop gave the other mare a playful hip bump as they went. "Looking forward to it." And she was looking forward, to watching the smaller mare act like a total nerd all day. That was when they came to the top of the hill, and Fizzlepop stopped in her tracks at what she saw. "What in the...."

In the back of her mind Fizzlepop was aware of the fact that Twilight had stopped with her, and was now watching Fizzlepop with a smug look on her face. "Hey Fiiiiiiz, did you know this island used to have another name?"

"What.. what was that?" She asked this while her gaze tracked over dozens of huge stone structures dotted over the beaches below where they stood. 

"Hakoya, but it's name did change several times as control of the island changed at different points."

"Hakoya, you mean the Hakoya? One of the most contested positions during the Great War? Part of the Sealantic wall, and linchpin in wartime trade routes for all armies involved?"

"And also where the treaty that ended the war was signed. Turns out, most of the wartime facilities were preserved. For history."

Unconsciously, Fizzlepop began to prance on the spot. "You have got to be kidding me. Some of the most significant military advancements happened during the Great War. I mean, every one of those fortifications, I've gotta... I've gotta see inside." She now took off at a prancing trot, stopping a few paces ahead to turn and prance in place as she called back. "Let's go Sparky, I don't want to be late. Do you think they still have any of the magic canons in there? Do you think they're still operational? Do you think they'll do any demonstrations? You think they'll let me participate?"

Twilight smiled happily. "Yeah, we're going to be way too busy all day." She said this under her breath as she strode forward. "You're such a nerd."

"What was that?"

"Nothing. Now calm down, I'm coming. I've been looking forward to this."
> Camouflage
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Wow. That is gorgeous." Berrypunch set the now opened small black box back in the middle of the booth. The ponies around sipped at the drinks she'd come around to refill. "Nopony picks up a ring like that unless they're dead serious. Guess I never even had a shot, huh?" She made playful fluttery eyes at Fizzlepop. 

"Yeah, sorry Punch. Just the way life goes I suppose." Fizzlepop shrugged half-heartedly. 

Berrypunch didn't seem too off-put by the turnout. "Oh well. But if you and the princess are ever in the mood for a threesome, I'm totally available any time." She gave a playful smile and a quick wink. 

Fizzlepop rolled her eyes. "You'll be literally the first pony we call on I'm sure."

Berrypunch laughed, knowing how the odds looked on that front. "In the meantime, there are plenty of fish in the sea. Maybe what I need is another soldier to help me get over my broken heart." She now propped herself on the table to where she could send flirtatious looks to Morningstar. 

Morningstar proceeded to pull away. "I thought you strictly went for mares. You know I'm a stallion right?"

Berrypunch shrugged her shoulders. "Eh, you're pretty like a mare. Enough drinks and I'm sure I wouldn't notice. What do you say?"

"Sorry, I gotta pass too. I'm not into the whole, being the rebound thing unfortunately."

"Four drinks in and still able to say no. A respectable stallion if I do say so." Zecora sent him a smile. He quickly took a drink to hide the blush it inspired. Zecora giggled slightly before turning back to the topic of discussion. "A specimen of such high quality, is certainly a rare sight to see." She let her eyes flick back for just a second. "From where in the wide world could its origins be?"

Fizzlepop took a deep sip of her drink. "It's… a complicated story. One which we don't need to go into." She lowered her glass to find four sets of unconvinced eyes staring at her. "What?"

"Don't 'what' us, Commander Edgelord Shadow." Morningstar snorted a laugh and began to chuckle as Fizzlepop couldn't stop a confused look coming to her face. She looked around to the others at the table for support. 

She found none as even Fluttershy seemed to be restraining giggles as she spoke. "Fizzlepop, you know we all love you here and we'd never try to humiliate you, right?" She waited for the target of their focus to nod her head in agreement. "Ok good, with that being said." Fluttershy took a deep breath and continued on in complete seriousness. "You still have no idea how to hide it when you want to gush like a school filly."

The normally stoic mare looked around the table, seeing only looks of confirmation. Berrypunch even laughed as she turned to leave. "It's not fair that she gets to be that cute and that hot at the same time."

Fizzlepop coached her features into a much more familiar scowl. "Whatever tell you think you've figured out clearly needs to be reconsidered."

"The hooves of a soldier that once caused fear, now betray your feelings from what I can hear." Zecora said this as her ear flicked, indicating beneath the table where they sat. 

Fizzlepop's ears flicked as well, and a moment later she stopped her hooves from tapping excitedly on their own. "It really can be such a bother to have so many close friends." She kept her chin low and her eyes closed in a solemn gesture as she set her drink down on the table. The edges of her lips began to tremble ever so slightly. She bit her lip to suppress it, but a big smile still managed to break on her face. She finally leaned forward on the table, throwing her forehooves onto it in excitement. "I found him!"

"Him?" Came the simultaneous response from the rest of the table.

Fizzlepop reached into the loose-fitting hoodie she wore and with practiced ease unstrapped a harness from within. She set her dagger down on the table next to the black box. "I found HIM." The ponies at the table all knew the story of how her dagger came to be her most prized possession. Thus looks of shock spread over them for a moment. 

Fluttershy seemed elated by this news. "I knew it! I had a feeling you might propose to her soon, and then when you took that time off alone. Oh, I just knew you were planning something special." Her wings fluttered behind her as she squeed at the idea. 

"That... just might be one of the most romantic things I've ever heard. How the heck did you even pull something like that off?" Morningstar looked very impressed. "I know you're great at recon, but still. And I mean, he just made it for you too?"

Fizzlepop smiled even wider. "It was a little harder than that, but it only makes the story better."

"If some adversity was uncovered, I assume your identity he did discover." Zecora supplied for her to continue. 

Fizzlepop chuckled at that. "The moment I walked into his shop, he greeted me as 'commander shadow'." This seemed to catch the whole table off guard. "He confessed that back when we first met he was sweating. He was extra nice to me because he didn't want to tip me off that he knew who I was. Apparently right after I left, he started making plans to evac the whole town in a hurry. Until he saw our airships on the horizon."

Fluttershy smiled brightly at that. "So he figured out that he'd gotten through to you, and ponies always remember acts of true kindness like that." She gave the most approving look she could to her friend. Fizzlepop couldn't help but to look away, biting her lip shyly. "So he made the ring for you because you spared his town back then?"

Fizzlepop turned back. Her confidence had returned, but her glee was still evident. "Not quite, it still took a little more than that." The other ponies at the table leaned forward in wrapped attention. "He's retired, and his sons do most of the work at his shop now. He said they were great jewelers as well, and even offered a discount for coming all that way. But he could tell I was disappointed at the news."

"What was it that made him do it?" Fluttershy asked, her eyes practically sparkling. 

"Two things. Two things, and after that he insisted on making the ring. One, he was impressed with the care I've taken with Ariel. He realized that I cared about true craftsmanship like his. Therefore he understood when I told him that I wanted the ring and her to be true sisters. That...and," she smiled bashfully as she knew they could tell the color coming to her cheeks. "When he found out who the ring was meant for. And no, not for a princess, that never came up." She looked up, smiling proudly. "For the pony that pulled me away from the darkness. The same darkness that had once almost claimed his town."

Fluttershy was currently hovering above her seat from the fluttering of her wings. "Oh my goodness, you two are so sweet when you're doing things for each other."

Morningstar smiled in agreement with the statement. "Yeah, you two definitely should come with a diabetes warning." He then chuckled after a moment of thought. "Don't ever tell this story to Rarity. The swoon she'll make will put her in a coma."

Laughter at the comment seemed to pull the group from the serious moment. Giggling, Zecora decided to add to the dumb joke. "I believe you're wrong, I do declare, for the true outcome will cause despair. A squee so high like never before, every dog in Equestria will bark forever more. From that day on the only rest, shall be me in my forest nest."

Morningstar laughed at the absurd assertion. "Yeah, well if that happens you're gaining a roommate. I can't function without my eight hours. Either that or an obscene amount of coffee."

"Inviting yourself over so readily, when in truth my forest home can be so scary." Zecora smiled playfully. 

"Oh, you haven't seen scary until you've seen me without caffeine."

The two laughed. Aside from them, Fizzlepop leaned over to whisper to Fluttershy. "What the heck is going on here?" Fluttershy could only shrug as she stared at the exchange with mild confusion. 

"I'm not sure, but I really hope this doesn't mean Zecora is going to be trying for the bouquet at your wedding. This one is mine and Rarity can just deal with that." Fluttershy said this while staring curiously at the pair still chatting between themselves. 

Fizzlepop cleared her throat as she was sliding her knife back into her jacket. "Sorry to break up this little... something." Realizing they had been chatting to each other for some time, the two now very suddenly turned their attention back to the others. "You do realize she lives in the Everfree right?"

"Oh, yeah. Sorry boss, it's just uhhh...." He trailed off, failing not to let his eyes glance back to the zebra across from him. "It's not like the Everfree is that bad..." The looks from the other two still seemed skeptical. 

Zecora decided to weigh in. "The story you told just created such an atmosphere, it could make any pony temporarily forget their fear. But I am sorry for the diversion, let us get back to the conversation of your version." The awkward smile she made seemed out of place on her face. 

"That rhyme was really forced," Morningstar couldn't help but mention.

"Mind your business," the rhythmic mare blurted out as she lifted her drink to hide her face. 

Fizzlepop and Fluttershy could only collectively shrug at the display. Fizzlepop decided to get them back on topic. "Beyond the conference and sightseeing, I'm not sure what else Twilight has planned for the trip. The island isn't very big after all."

Morningstar thought quickly, hoping to distract from his own discomfort. "Even if the conference itself is a no go, you can still do something romantic and showy. You know, classic and cheesy. Candle lit dinner, all dressed up, have the waiter deliver the ring in a champagne glass. It's a cliché, but it's a cliché for a reason."

Fizzlepop seemed to think this over for a while before giving a hesitant grunt. "We do treat ourselves and do something fancy like that every now and then, but usually only for special occasions. If I took her somewhere nice like that she might suspect something, and I want this to be a surprise."

"Nothing says it has to be fancy to be romantic," he countered, his hesitation from before largely forgotten. "She might think it's fun if you tried the fancy stuff at one of the questionable places you two like to check out." 

Fizzlepop thought this over a while longer. "That's... not a bad idea. But I was leaning away from specifically that sort of idea from the start. It's one of the reasons I needed some advice."

"A fancy affair may not be your style, but why could you not try to pull it off for a while?" Zecora inquired. 

"It's a beach town. Being dressed up fancy is probably going to be too big of an obstacle to overcome. I'm probably going to be dealing with enough challenges just being clothed at all." Fizzlepop felt a swell of joy that the looks of realization around her were not then also accompanied by sudden cringes as they might be from ponies who didn't know her so well. She loved her friends and the fact that they understood her, but she did see the beginnings of an encouraging speech building behind the eyes of the element bearer among them. "You don't need to start piling on encouragement, I'm long since over those sorts of worries."

Fluttershy looked taken aback, but not entirely convinced. "You still prefer to be covered though. Are you sure you're going to be ok hanging out on a beach?"

Fizzlepop leaned back in her chair, getting a far off look that her friends knew as one reserved for thoughts of her special somepony. "Twilight says that she thinks they're sexy, and her opinion is the only one I really care about on the matter." She turned back to the others. "It does make getting around a little bit of a hassle sometimes though. I just don't want it to become a burden to her. Not when she's so excited for this trip." She looked slightly downcast. "I'm comfortable with myself, but I can't control the feelings of others."

There was a silence that seemed hard to break with normal words. 

"The life we lead will always leave marks, some we'll love, others only in parts. We cannot choose how others will react, but in our own ways we can fight back. Though we may face many strifes, even a zebra can change their stripes."

The rest of the table stared long enough to collectively blink while processing Zecora's declaration. Morningstar was the first to react. "That was... deep. It was an old zebra proverb wasn't it? But I've never heard it translated like that. It's one of my favorites, even though I've never been able to learn who exactly said it."

"In my culture we do not have many authors, we rely on each other to remember the old words."

"Holy frick you're gorgeous." Morningstar jolted along with the whole table as he realized the words had come from his mouth. "I mean, your words, the proverb. I like the proverb. I'm fascinated by Zebras... I mean the culture, Zebra culture. Not that you're not, I mean..."

"Morningstar." The familiar sound of his commanding officer shouting at him caught his attention immediately. "Every word you say makes it more awkward. Just shut up."

"Shutting up." There was a noticeable thunk as his head hit the table. 

Fizzlepop watched him for a few moments. "He'll be there for a bit. But while I do agree with him that it's a good saying, I'm not sure it helps with the situation at hoof."

Zecora just shrugged as she held the glass from her freshly finished drink in front of her face again while staring towards the slumped stallion. "Not all zebra proverbs make sense in whole, they merely inform us which way we might go."


***


The soft sound of waves came in a gentle rhythm. It and the other sounds of the beach combined into such a soothing ambiance that it made even the diligent commander of the friendship guard decide that moving was entirely optional for the day. That was, if she had listened to the advice of her marefriend prior to their sunbathing and chose their spot further up the beach. With her longer legs she now became very aware that those waves were getting entirely too close for comfort. But she could still fake it for a while and hope Twilight didn't notice. 

Fizzlepop restrained a groan as the mare next to her shuffled a little before sitting up on her neighboring towel. "Back to sleep sweetie. We still have all day to relax."

"Nah, maybe another five minutes. You forget, I don't have a cropped tail." Fizzlepop lifted her head, looking down to notice the waves were indeed lapping at her marefriend's tail the same way they now splashed  the frogs of her rear hooves. 

Fizzlepop let the groan escape her this time, laying back down and reclosing her eyes. "I'll find us a better place if you can promise not to gloat too much about being right."

Twilight giggled at the mare who was clearly making no plans to relocate any time soon. "No, as relaxing as this is, I think it's time to pack up. I'm about ready to go find some more authentic local cuisine. Just as long as it's less... alive than what they served at that place last night." 

Fizzlepop chuckled lightly while still refusing to reopen her eyes. "We're by the sea. They like their seafood very fresh in places like this." She could hear her marefriend cringe. "I told you we could have switched. I would have eaten your octopus, then we could lounge a little longer until you get hungry."

"You didn't need to force yourself to eat it just because I couldn't. I had my side of rice and your salad, and they were good. But now I want to see if maybe there's an all you can eat option somewhere around here."

Fizzlepop finally decided to relent, rolling lazily on to her belly to nuzzle into her marefriend before standing. "Not likely, not every nation eats like Equestrians do. We can probably find a more touristy place with some bigger portions though." Fizzlepop began wrapping herself with a thin shawl before pausing to give it a sniff. "That's unfortunate."

Twilight stood as well, giving her a questioning look. "What's wrong?"

"Looks like you were right again, I was getting a little too sweaty earlier. This thing is gross already."

Twilight was sympathetic at this, clearly concerned but hopeful. She gave a quick glance around. This was the tourist side of the island, so there were others scattered around the beach even if they had purposefully set up in a fairly secluded area. "If you're not ok I can try to cast a cleaning spell. We could always just head back to the hotel and get room service too. But there really aren't many ponies around so I think..." She was silenced by lips pressed to her own. 

"I'm ok Sparky. But it's sweet that you worry." She smiled down to her slightly caught off guard marefriend. 

Twilight looked hopeful. "Really? You're really ok? Because I know you've been a little hot in that shawl this whole time."

"Sweltering, the word you're looking for is sweltering. And yes it's fine. I'm not here with those other ponies, I'm here with you." Twilight's smile was bright, and it made Fizzlepop smile back very genuinely. "Come on, let's find a ridiculously overpriced tourist trap."

The pair started out, walking with confidence as they did. And their confidence didn't waiver, even though they were noticed very quickly. 

A stallion they passed stopped in his tracks as they passed. His cringe was a bit of a harsh reaction over some claw marks from a timberwolf in Fizzlepop's opinion. 

A random mare sitting in the outdoor seating of a Café openly gawked. Her eye was always visible, so this reaction seemed even more unnecessary. Maybe something like that is just more expected if one usually wears armor, she reasoned. Because what reason they had to stare at it when she didn't wear her armor was an eternal mystery to her.

"Mommy, what happened to him?"

"Don't stare sweetie." An older mare hurried her foal away in the opposite direction. 

..... That one was fair, she should have lost that leg. Either that or the injury should have taken her life. But the stormking had been unwilling to let her rest in peace. He'd had her stitched and bandaged as best the doctors could in the heat of battle and she was able to finish the fight even if it was in agonizing pain. It showed. 

Fizzlepop preferred to be covered when she was in public, because she didn't like to be unprotected. 

"What about Haytalian?" Fizzlepop inquired sweetly. 

"Hmmm, I think I've had enough cheese lately," Twilight replied casually. 

Every so often as they walked another pony randomly stopped what they were doing to glance in their direction. 

"How about Prench?" Twilight chirped. 

"Never trust Prench cooking outside of Prance Sparky." Fizzlepop said this as though it was an obvious conclusion. 

And yet, the couple walked along as if nothing in the world could bother them. 

"Mexicolt?" Fizzlepop chimed in again. 

"It wasn't necessarily just the cheese I was worried about before sweetie." Twilight said this under her breath. 

It was then that they came upon a rather large crowd. Without a thought they joined the mass of ponies to see what the gathering was all about. 

".... Oooooh yeah. If we want overdone tourist food, this is the spot." Fizzlepop smiled as she pushed through the onlookers to join the line at the front of a building, Twilight following in her marefriend's wake. 

Apparently the small island had recently been graced with its first franchise restaurant. And while the locals seemed lukewarm to the idea, the more out of place among the town were flocking. It was a small wait before they made it to the front of the line, but neither of them cared. However Fizzlepop felt she knew what awaited them at the front. 

"Hello and welcome. Just the two of you tonight?" The overly cheerful hostess was running through the script in her head and was basically on autopilot, so she obviously hadn't noticed. From over her shoulder Fizzlepop noticed an older stallion in a cheap suit. He did seem to notice, and after seeing his eyes go wide for a moment she could tell he was in route to them. 

Twilight had probably noticed too, Fizzlepop knew she was getting much better at watching her surroundings. But she just smiled as she responded to the hostess. "Yes, somewhere with a view if it's available."

"That shouldn't be an issue," the pegasus mare replied as she looked down to mark something on her podium before taking a couple menus under her wing. "Right this way ladies."

She began leading them to the crowded side of the restaurant, the side facing the beach. Half way there though the stallion caught up. "Marge, honey. Can't you see these mares are clearly trying to have a nice night out." The mare known as Marge was caught off guard but tried to maintain professionalism. 

"Oh, sure Mr. Prep. What did you have in mind?"

"I've got this sweetheart. You go handle the next guests." He gave her a fake smile, one she matched as she turned back to the front of the restaurant. "Ladies, my name is Meal Prep. I'm the manager here and I've got the perfect place for you."

Twilight was taken aback by his sudden helpfulness. "Oh. If you insist. We don't need any special treatment though, we were just hoping for a spot with a view."

He obviously barely listened to her. "Nonsense, I've got the perfect place for a couple having a special night." He started leading them to the opposite side of the restaurant, where there were fewer diners around. Fizzlepop only wondered how far he'd go with this. Her expectations were confirmed when his horn lit as they approached what seemed to be the most secluded table in the restaurant. "There we go, the perfect mood lighting." His smile was cheap as he extinguished the lights above the table, pulling out one candle to sit at the center of the small table between them as they sat. 

"Oh, well this is nice too. I mean, a good meal is all about the company. Right Fizz?" Her smile was warm, but there was some strain behind it. 

Fizzlepop met her smile with as warm of one as she could give back. "Of course." She reached out to take Twilight's hoof in her own. She brought it up to her lips for a gentle kiss. For a moment Twilight's tension eased. 

The moment ended as the manager set menus between them. "I can take your drink orders now if you'd like. We have tea, coffee, soda, some mixed drinks if you'd like. Also some appetizers.  I can put an order in on them now if you'd like." His desire to hurry them out of the restaurant was barely hidden already. 

Fizzlepop was honestly happy to oblige at this point. While Twilight was still trying to decide how to handle the situation Fizzlepop spoke up. "Just some water for the both of us. And we'll have whatever you recommend as far as an appetizer."

He seemed pleased by this. "That's great. I'll be right back." Fizzlepop was sure he would be. 

Twilight's smile was strained again. "He seems a little... off. Is this still ok for you?"

"I promise I'll let you know the exact moment things become not ok for me." She smiled to try to brighten Twilight's smile again. It seemed to help a little. "You should figure out what you want though, he's already on his way back."

Fizzlepop was right despite having her back to where he approached. Two glasses of water, a basket of chips, and a bowl floated in his magic as he got to the table. 

"There you go ladies. Two waters and our world famous salsa and chips. Have you decided what you'd like for a main course today?"

Neither the chips or salsa looked world famous, but Fizzlepop wasn't going to bring that up. She just smiled as she noticed his eyes flicking between making eye contact, his other customers nearby, and the spot on her shoulder where a spear had once hit an artery and almost made her bleed out. "She might need a moment, but I can order while she decides."

That at least slowed Twilight's frantic scanning of the menu. Their impatient attendant for the night already had a notepad and pen floating in his magic at the ready. "What can I get for you?"

She made a show of considering for a few moments, wondering the whole time if she could get his eye to start twitching in frustration. "I'll have this special," she finally said, pointing to an image on the top of the menu she hadn't even touched yet. She waited a few moments, ostensibly to make sure he knew which she was indicating, but more to stall for Twilight. "Light on the cream sauce if you'd please."

"But of course." He scribbled quickly, moving on with barely a pause. "And for you?"

Trying to catch up, Twilight saw the list of specials her marefriend had ordered from. It actually caused her to brighten a little. "Oh, that actually looks great. I'll have the grilled version. No brussel sprouts though if you don't mind."

"Sounds great, I'll get that in for you two now." They could hardly hear him as he was halfway across the restaurant by the time he finished speaking. 

Twilight's smile was strained again, but she spoke happily. "He certainly is friendly at least."

Fizzlepop gave a giggle at her loves attempt to preserve the situation. "Very, but I have a feeling he's going to get even friendlier." They giggled together as Fizzlepop's ears flicked nearly imperceptibly. Tones around the room were hushed, but she could catch the usual utterances. 

"...... fights....."

"..dangerous......."

"........... scars."

".....disgus..."

"So, when was the last time we've eaten by candle light?" Fizzlepop asked this while leaning over the table. She propped her chin on her hooves and batted her eyelashes at the mare across from her, doing her best attempt at a dreamy stare. 

Twilight couldn't help but giggle more at that, especially knowing what the answer was. "It was two weeks ago. You made Spike teach you how to make my favorite dinner then forced me to have a date night with you."

Fizzlepop broke her flirtatious look in favor of a toothy grin. "It worked didn't it?"

"You don't have to be so extra for me every time I go on some sort of studying binge. And I'll have you know I'd only been going at it for 36 straight hours at that point. That's nowhere near my record." Twilight turned away in a mock huff.

"I believe protecting my Princess from all harm is my job, so yes I will be very 'extra' whenever it is necessary." Fizzlepop shot back. 

Twilight now leaned forward to speak just slightly under her breath. "But seducing me to make me sleep isn't fair."

Fizzlepop gave the most evil laugh she could manage. "I didn't hear you complain when you finally woke up after." She took a smug sip from her water. "Remind me again how long you ended up sleeping?"

Twilight tried to remain defiant. "That... is not relevant." She held on for a few moments, before laughter took her and spread immediately to her date. It was some time before they quieted down, paying little heed to how the rest of the room might be reacting to their mirth. When they did, Fizzlepop found the mare she loved giving her a proper dreamy look as she leaned forward. "You treat me so good. I love you so much."

Fizzlepop leaned forward, bringing their forehooves together on the table between them. "I love you too, with all my heart." They both leaned forward, their lips pressing together. 

Fizzlepop was lost in the moment as the feeling she was having made her thoughts drift to the saddlebag on the floor next to her. It wouldn't be her style, but it was kind of traditional, she supposed. It was just starting to feel like a good idea as their lips separated. Even more so as they stayed where they were, staring deeply into each other's eyes. Neither felt the need to pull away.

Then Fizzlepop's ear flicked. Twilight seemed to notice and looked in the direction. The Alicorn seemed to be readjusting her wings as Fizzlepop likewise turned to the sound of slightly hurried hoof steps. Meal Prep approached their table again. 

"Hello again." His smile was even more cheesy and plastered on. "Your meals should be out soon, but I have good news." 

Fizzlepop was very aware of eyes on them from around the restaurant. Normally she'd attribute it to creatures noticing a princess among normal ponies. But currently they were far enough outside of Equestria for the idea of an Alicorn to be not much more than a curiosity to most of those around. She turned to face the manager more directly as he spoke. As she did she noticed a stallion from the table behind him shifting to get a better look at the spot where she'd almost perfectly dodged a sword strike. 

"You two had wanted a table with a view initially right?" He inquired despite knowing this himself very well. 

"We did, but this is actually fine." Twilight smiled as she gripped the hooves in her own tighter. However Fizzlepop could see that the strain on her smile had come back despite their moment together. She knew her marefriend was good at being diplomatic, the problem was that the stallion was not. 

"Oh but it turns out we were able to open up some patio seating just for the two of you." His cheeky grin seemed to indicate that he thought he was being subtle. 

Fizzlepop had a long trained instinct to always check her surroundings. This establishment didn't have a patio. She was also very aware that the chatter around them had died down as well, almost as though they were being watched by interested parties. But none of that mattered. She looked away from the overly enthusiastic smile before her to the smile on her loves face. There she saw it shift ever so slightly, from strained, to pained.

"What do you..."

"Actually I think we're done here." Her words were not loud, but the finality with which she spoke made breaths catch all around them. 

The stallion tried to sputter out an excuse, but the soldier didn't care for his placating. She was much more mindful of the concerned look from the mare across from her as she moved to stand. 

Twilight held her hooves fast, seeming to try to keep them in the moment they had been sharing. "Fizz, I'm sure they didn't mean to be hurtful. I know they probably deserve whatever you might be thinking of, but we can still just enjoy our time together."

Fizzlepop smiled warmly as she pulled the hooves holding her own to her face. "Sparky, you have nothing to worry about. Their prejudices don't mean anything to me." She kissed Twilight's hooves ever so gently. "But we deserve nice things." Caught off guard, Twilight took a second to process this. But after a moment her warm smile finally returned. Fizzlepop turned back to the stallion as her hoof came free to take up her saddlebags. "And unfortunately we haven't been treated very nicely here."

"Ladies please, you understand the position we are in do you not?" Meal Prep was still trying, but his words were largely falling on deaf ears. He still seemed ready to protest, as his eyes briefly glanced to Fizzlepop's forehead. 

Fizzlepop pushed something else aside in her bag before pulling out her bit pouch. She placed a very precise number down on the table. "We'll take our food to go. You'll understand if we don't decide to leave a tip I assume." The look she gave him seemed to end all conversations.


*


Fizzlepop carried takeout containers on her back as they walked. Despite where they'd just come from she seemed to be bobbing her head to the beat from  the music coming from a nearby beach party they were passing. For her part the mare seemed to have not a care in the world. 

"Are you OK Fizz?"

"I'm about to go eat in the privacy of a ludicrously expensive hotel room with a ludicrously gorgeous mare who just so happens to be the love of my life." She turned to smile at her companion. "Very little could make my life better."

Twilight relaxed, scooting closer so that they pressed together as they walked. Their tails reflexively entwined as she did. "You're amazing, you know that right?" Fizzlepop merely leaned over to nuzzle her briefly. "I just wish others could see that too."

Fizzlepop ceased humming casually to the music to respond. "There are very few creatures whose opinions I care about, and none of them would judge a pony the way they did back there. If they don't wish to treat me well, then I do not choose to grace them with my presence."

Hearing this, Twilight took the opportunity to press in closer to the mare she loved, nuzzling into her neck more deeply this time. With a dreamy tone she spoke up to the mare who was giggling as she tried to balance their food while maintaining contact. "I guess it's ok. If everypony could see you the way I see you, I'd never be able to rest with all the suitors you'd suddenly have."

Fizzlepop shifted a little, putting herself in position to plant a tiny kiss on the tip of Twilight's horn. The action made the other mare quiver against her as they walked, much to her delight. "You accept me just the way I am, and that makes all the difference."

They straightened up as they continued towards their hotel. Twilight hummed contentedly as she broke the silence again. "We can always skip the festival tomorrow and go straight to exploring the other side of the island. I wouldn't mind more time having you all to myself."

Fizzlepop pretended to think that over. "Tempting. I'd take you up on that offer... if I didn't know how much you wanted to see the local traditions firsthoof. Your scientist was definitely showing when you told me about it, and you know how cute I think it is when you go full scientist."

"You really are too good to me." She nuzzled into her mare as they continued to walk, their hotel not far ahead of them now. "We'll figure it out, so we both can have a great time."

"I'm sure we will. But I'll have a great time as long as I'm with you."


*


Fizzlepop Berrytwist awakened as she did most mornings. Well before the sun and eagerish to get a start on the day. She got ready for her usual morning jog, prepping a water bottle and a towel in a loose bag around her neck. Always best to be prepared, at least that's what came to mind as she tucked a bit bag in as well. She had no reason to feel she might need it, but it felt right to do so today. She then came to what had become her favorite part of her mornings.

Her marefriend still lay in the bed where she had left her. The long time night owl had made attempts to wake earlier when the two had first started sharing a bed. But both quickly realized that having different morning schedules didn't hurt their relationship in the slightest. In fact, Fizzlepop loved having the extra time in the mornings, having more than a few times planned surprises for her beloved while she slumbered.

Memories of those times made her smile warmly as she approached the bed quietly. She reached down to place a kiss to the forehead of her princess, just below her horn. Twilight stirred just a little at the contact. The perfect amount actually, if Fizzlepop was any judge of it. 

She settled a little lower, bringing her lips just a breath away from Twilight's ear. "Shhh, sleep my love. I'm just going out for my run." The still not quite conscious princesses lips seemed to start kissing air ever so gently, the only signal Fizzlepop needed of her understanding. Before lowering to meet them however she whispered again. "I might run a little late, so just meet me at that little breakfast place we found the other day." She then pressed their lips together, knowing Twilight would remember enough of the conversation. "Love you."

A few minutes later Fizzlepop was already making considerable distance down the beach. She had years before become accustomed to running in sand and always liked the extra workout of the experience. However, even that exhilaration was not enough to keep her mind focused on her training. 

Fizzlepop truly didn't care about the stares of the regular ponies and creatures she had to interact with in daily life. She knew she could handle it herself if it ever threatened to become an issue, but doing so would always insure it became an issue. It was just the nature of things. 

Fizzlepop was also completely truthful when she told anypony who might inquire that she was happy. She'd spent years in darkness and that was time she'd never get back. But without that time she might have never come to the place she was now. So even if there were specific memories she'd always regret, she was at peace with her past. As she was too with her present. The life she'd built thanks to and alongside Twilight was something that made her proud every day. 

But even as she thought of all of this, one other thought still plagued her mind. She wanted one thing to be normal. One gesture, one question, one moment she wanted to make with another pony. And she didn't want that moment tainted by anything else. Just one normal, perfect moment with the one she loved. 

She let out a huff as her workout was, for obvious reasons, feeling a little more exhausting than it normally should. She changed her course as she kept thinking, her pace slowing as she stepped off the beach and onto a section of the small beachside town. It was an area she didn't think she and Twilight had had a chance to explore yet. She wasn't a pony used to aimless wandering, but she didn't feel like she was going to get much out of her workout from this point. She began to walk the small paved road next to the beach, letting her gaze drift as she did. 

Preparations for the island's yearly festival were obviously in high gear as they'd be starting by noon. That being the case, not many of the ponies out and about seemed to notice her. The few that did didn't seem to pay her much mind. Likely due to the tight fitting athletic top she currently wore. That made her grumble as the thin piece of clothing was doing at least one of its jobs a little too well. She finally came to a complete halt, reaching into her bag to retrieve a small towel to wipe the accumulated sweat from her face. 

She looked around as she did. This one little piece of clothes and she barely stood out. Her horn still got her some looks, but that usually made ponies actively try to ignore her. And as far as she was concerned that was just as good as being just plain ignored. But this harsh sun and tropical humidity was just not a place for clothes. 

She grumbled again. Maybe she could endure it for the festival. After that she and Twilight could be alone. That would probably work. But she was sure that would make Twilight worry about her all day. Fizzlepop sighed as she took her bottle of water from her bag. 

If only she'd thought to ask her friends for more advice on matters such as this. They had made her feel more confident before the trip, but she still had lingering doubts. She wondered what they might say if they were here now as she raised the bottle to her lips. 

She then paused. Her hoof lowered as she stared in disbelief. She blinked several times as she attempted to process some new information. A slight smile came to her lips. "What is up with Ponyville and its reality breaking weirdos?" She questioned this aloud as she continued to stare. She laughed to herself as she began to trot again. "Careful Fluttershy, that crazy zebra might be making a play for best mare while you were worried about the bouquet."


*


"Wow." The stallion's stare was unabashed. But Fizzlepop reasoned she had more or less consented to it for once. That didn't mean she was any less uncomfortable about it. 

"I know, they can be off-putting. That's why I'm here. Is there anything you can do?" Fizzlepop stood before the owner of a small shop, one small enough that it was thankfully empty other than herself and the owner at the moment. Despite the nature of the establishment she had still hesitated a little before she was able to pull off her workout gear. That hesitation now abated some as the stallions expression changed to curiosity rather than any number of the usual emotions Fizzlepop would usually expect.

"Off-putting, what are you talking about? This is amazing." The proprietor of a small henna shop bearing the name, "Stripes", now gave Fizzlepop a look of genuine encouragement. This drew a look of question from the mare. He seemed to think for a moment before elaborating. "Your body... it tells a story."

Fizzlepop scoffed a little at this. "Yeah, my scars tell a story alright. But it's not exactly a romance novel."

The zebra stallion already seemed to be gathering the tools of his trade from around his shop. "My dear lady, while the ponies who originally helped write your story were not the nicest about it, that doesn't mean your story is a bad one. All you need is a new author to retell your tale." He indicated a table next to him for his prospective client to lay upon. "And if you'd let me, I'd be more than happy to weave a narrative that will win any heart."

Fizzlepop was more than a little taken aback. His professionalism with the situation left her with little reason to question if this had been a good decision. She smiled as she began to walk over,  wondering one thing about the reassuring words he'd spoken. "So, is it really true that all zebras are just naturally poets? Or is it just somehow every zebra I seem to run into?" She asked nonchalantly.

He chuckled at that. "You've encountered that stereotype before huh? Well it's certainly one i don't mind thankfully. Though most just accuse me of being a savvy business stallion or a shameless flirt."

Fizzlepop chuckled back at that. "At least you don't speak in constant rhyme like my friend does," she said as she pulled her bag from around her neck. 

He snorted another laugh at that. "What kind of weirdo would go through the trouble of using Zebracan royal diction in regular conversation?"

Fizzlepop stared at him for a moment. "You've given me something very interesting to think about. But later." She shook her head to shrug off the thought and pulled out her bit bag, dumping it in front of him. "Is this enough?"

"Oh, wow. No, that's way too much actually. I can't possibly..."

"I need this done quickly. Before the festival starts if possible," Fizzlepop cut in firmly but gently. 

"Whoa whoa whoa. No matter the price you can't rush art." He held up his hooves placatingly. "It's not about the money, I'd have to be really inspired to put something together that quickly." He looked at the pile of bits longingly, but was apprehensive. 

"I'm meeting my marefriend for breakfast before the festival and I'm planning on proposing to her today." Some earnestness broke into Fizzlepop's voice. 

The stallion scooped a majority of the bits into a bag. "You'll be finished with time to spare."


*


The night owl Princess of Friendship preferred to not be awake before noon whenever she had time off. Despite this, she was in good spirits as she trotted down the path by the beach not far from her hotel. The time she'd had with her marefriend the night before had left her feeling positive about the day they had planned ahead of them. 

She felt her cheeks heat up even above the tropical sun as thoughts of her marefriend played through her head. She'd always known her Fizz to be a strong pony, though that strength had changed over their time together and taken on whole new meanings. Twilight knew of most of the hardships the mare she loved had gone through in her life. She couldn't imagine herself even surviving such challenges, much less becoming half the mare she turned out to be. 

This was why she felt so good... well one of the reasons. She knew now that there was little standing in the way of them having the perfect day. If anything was to be worried about it would be herself getting upset about how Fizzlepop was being treated by other ponies. And even that was mostly because it might upset Fizzlepop to see her upset. 

But if Fizzlepop managed to have a good time, Twilight was confident she could have a good time as well. This was her mood as she approached the small breakfast cafe the two had come to enjoy in their short time on the island. It meant they could have a wonderful date day at the festival. Fizz could win her a prize, they could share unhealthy festival foods, there would be fireworks later, and maybe if the moment was right... What the heck is going on?

There seemed to be a crowd in front of the restaurant, somewhat odd for the low key location. But the Alicorn was shocked by what she saw next. 

"What's that one?" A small colt asked while pointing to a spot on Fizzlepop Berrytwist's shoulder. 

"Oh that, that's nothing. I was fighting a Griffin once and he came at me with a sword. I pulled a move," she then pantomimed a diving slide, "and dodged him almost perfectly. Key word there, almost."

Twilight felt her breath catch and the beginnings of tears forming in her eyes as the assorted crowd around her joined in the chime of her tender laugh. Twilight then felt her jaw slacken and mouth begin to water slightly as her eyes instinctively traced her marefriend. She was unclothed, but not uncovered. Over her muscular form she was now covered with what seemed to be intricate markings. And while they seemed to disguise some of the minor ones, most of the markings ran along or around the proof of the many challenges the mare had overcome in her life. Rather than hide them, Fizzlepop actually seemed to be showing off her scars. The sight made Twilight's heart feel full enough to burst from her chest. This was heightened even more as the mare in question turned and brightened just by seeing her. 

"Sparky, I'm so glad you're here." She sauntered forward, coming close to Twilight before taking her lips with her own in a chaste but loving kiss." She smiled to Twilight before turning back to the crowd she'd been previously entertaining. "See, I told you I was dating a literal goddess. So I won't be able to join you for drinks unfortunately."

A slightly dejected looking stallion set some bits down on a railing where he was standing. "Ah, it was worth a shot. and it looks like I'll be paying for your drinks regardless. You ladies have a nice day." And with a wave he was off. 

Fizzlepop scooped the bits up and turned back to her marefriend with a giddy expression as others that had gathered seemed to take their leave as well. "Come on sweety, I'm starving." 

The little colt from before spoke up. "Wait, I wanted to hear more stories."

Fizzlepop didn't miss a beat. She bent down low to give him an understanding smile. "Very few of the rest of my stories are child friendly I'm afraid. And I doubt your mother wants to screen all my stories before I tell them." She looked up to the mare who gave a nod of approval. "When you get older I'd be happy to share them with you. Now go on, I've got a date with a princess." The colt was hesitant, but smiled before trotting back to his mother. 

Fizzlepop turned back to her brightly smiling marefriend. Not quite knowing how to respond, Twilight just said what came to mind first. "So, was that stallion actually hitting on you?"

Fizzlepop giggled at that. "Indeed he was. But I told him my heart was already taken by a goddess." She then smirked at the blush that made come to Twilight's cheeks. "He said that that was the most creative way he'd ever been turned down even if he didn't believe me. Apparently Alicorn are seen more as folklore this far out. I had to convince them that real life ones do in fact exist and are not just ponies with fake wings or horns." They both laughed at that. "But of all the things I've done today," she indicated the markings on her body, "I didn't think that would be what you'd fixate on."

Twilight smiled playfully. "It was just funny because I can usually trust that I have you all to myself. I always believed that if somepony was bold enough to hit on you they'd probably end up in the hospital. But this," she unconsciously bit her lip as her eyes tracked over her form again. "This isn't shocking to me at all." She moved in close to whisper the next words directly into Fizzlepop's ear. "Because this is basically how I see you all the time." She gave the ear a playful nip before the other mare could pull away. 

Fizzlepop did pull away quickly after though, smiling bashfully as she attempted to hide her face from Twilight. "We should get going. The festival starts soon and we still haven't had breakfast."

Twilight smiled as she trotted after her. "You're blushing."
> Final Recon
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The atmosphere around the bar had shifted somewhat as the night went on. Enough alcohol had been consumed by the various clientele that a large portion now either struggled to stay conscious, were unconscious, or had already decided to depart for the evening. Fizzlepop and her friends sat around their same table, mulling over their thoughts and munching on their cupcakes. 

Morningstar decided to finally break the prolonged silence. "Where the heck did the second round of cupcakes come from anyway?"

The rest of the table shrugged. 

Fluttershy looked around the table. "Did anypony see where Pinkie's cupcake tray went? I was going to make sure she got it back."

The rest of the table shrugged. 

Fizzlepop finished off what she decided might be her favorite one of Pinkie's creations yet. If she had to guess it was a very appealing mixture of chocolate, caramel, and coffee. Whatever it actually was, she could feel it giving her the slight buzz of energy she needed as she was finishing it off. "This town is weird," she declared. 

The rest of the table shrugged, but with a little more enthusiasm. 

"Though no decision has been reached, do you feel better about what you have beseeched?" Zecora asked as she debated finishing her drink. 

Fizzlepop shrugged. "I'll admit, I was probably panicking a little when I first gathered you all here. I'm sorry about that, but I'd still like to thank you all as well. Even if we haven't come up with anything solid, I'm feeling better about it."

Her friends gave her warm smiles, which made Fizzlepop smile back. It was Fluttershy that responded. "I'm sure you'll be fine. If nothing else you are great at adapting and coming up with plans on the spot. If you just keep the ring on you, I'm sure the right moment will come up."

"Thank you Fluttershy. Thanks to all of you actually. I'm sure getting dragged out this late..." 

"Literally for me," Morningstar cut in. 

"... was probably very inconvenient. I'll make it up to you, I promise." Fizzlepop looked at their tired expressions with apprehension, but the smiles upon them were still genuine. 

"Do not worry my good friend, I'm sure we all will get something out of this in the end." Zecora smirked as she shot back the last of her drink. 

"Yeah, I'm sure I owe you for something at some point anyway. About half a pot of coffee and I'm sure I'll manage tomorrow. Or should I say, in a few hours." There was a slight chuckle as the occupants of the table acknowledged that the late hour had come around to being early. "So, are you gonna be ok boss? I know you don't like going into battle without a plan."

"It's fine Morningstar. Talking with you all I think has made me realize that setting up the perfect moment probably isn't the best idea. Even the best plans fall apart at some point. But it also reminded me that I'm good at improvising." She smiled to them. "So if... when I ask her, I'll be sure to send word to you all as soon as I can. You deserve at least to know your efforts tonight weren't wasted."

"It seems our time is coming to an end, unless another has some words to lend?" Zecora asked the table again, not that anypony felt there was much more to say. 

Fluttershy mulled over a thought for a moment before deciding to speak up. "We've been trying to help you make a special moment, but have you thought about the special moments you've already had?"

"Literally every day," Fizzlepop declared without hesitation. "I still can't believe how lucky I was after what I've done in my life. But what were you thinking of specifically?" Fizzlepop asked this, her interest rekindled. 

Fluttershy seemed to be considering how to respond. "Well, it's like... I know when you realized you were in love with Twilight." They both shared a knowing smile at that. "But I'm sure there are other moments you've had with her. Maybe one of them could give you some idea on how you might want to propose to her?"

"Hmmm, moments like what? Our first date? When we first became a couple? Unfortunately, most of our milestones involve either lounging in our room reading together, or fighting ancient evils from beyond time and space. I don't think either of those scenarios would work. At one point I entertained the idea of hollowing out a book to use as a surprise ring case. But I realized that if there was anything that could make Twilight leave me, it would probably be intentionally damaging a book."

Fluttershy considered for a few moments. "Do you maybe remember the first time you started to have feelings for Twilight? Like, I ummmm....." She paused for another few moments, color coming to her cheeks. "I decided that if I ever did work up the courage to be the one to ask Rainbow, I'd try to find a way to do it where we first met. Because, well, that's probably the first time I started to have feelings for her. Although I haven't told her that quite yet." Her cheeks were burning red, but she still smiled encouragingly to her friend.

"The first time I realized I liked Twilight... that would have to have been when we started dating. She's the one who helped me realize I felt that way about her after all." Fizzlepop said this, though her face scrunched in thought. 

"Not when you realized it, that's not what I'm saying. When do you think you first started feeling that way? Like for me, it took me much longer to realize I was in love with Rainbow than it should have. That's even more obvious in retrospect since I've had time to realize just how long I've had feelings for her."

Thinking about her earliest memories of Twilight made Fizzlepop wince. The rest of the table gave her a minute. "My emotions back then were all anger and contempt. It was literally all I felt, because I forced myself to feel that way. After that I was confused for a long time, so finding a moment like that in amongst all the confusion isn't going to be something I can just do right now."

"Fatigue and spirits may also cloud your vision, time and rest may help you come to a better decision. I think it is time for us all to have some time and peace, after all this we could all use a little... release." Fizzlepop decided not to mention where Zecora's eyes flicked when she paused. 

Morningstar gave a little chuckle at the words, having not noticed the pause. "Yeah, I feel sorry for those new recruits. It's going to be a long day for everypony I guess."

Fluttershy blushed as she began to get up from the table. "Yeah, I need to get back home. I think I owe Rainbow a lot of snuggles after tonight."

Fizzlepop stood up after her, giving her a reassuring pat on the shoulder. "Sorry, I didn't mean to pull you away quite that abruptly. I'm sure she'll forgive you, especially if you just blame it on me. And I think she'll manage to forgive me  eventually, since I got her that gig speaking at her old flight schools graduation."

Fluttershy giggled. "Yeah, she's been really looking forward to that. It's going to be fun."

Fizzlepop chuckled at that, then paused. "You decided to go with her too, right?" Fluttershy nodded to her question. "The two of you went to flight school together didn't you? You actually met her there if I recall."

Fluttershy seemed to suddenly freeze up. Fizzlepop's questioning look tilted and her eyebrow quirked as she looked over her friend. "I'vegottagogetDashieuntiedsorrythanksbye!!!" And with that a blur of yellow and pink sent the door of the bar flying across town as it made its way away from the establishment at breakneck pace. 

Morningstar came to stand next to Fizzlepop as they both watched the vaguely pony shaped cloud of loose fur and feathers slowly float to the ground. "Rarity is going to be a very busy mare in the near future," Fizzlepop stated with a shrug. 

Morningstar grunted in affirmation. "Yeah, and that makes it pretty much all my friends at this point." He let out a low groan of frustration. "Just as long as all you happy couples don't go rubbing your happiness in all us single ponies faces."

Fizzlepop turned to him, and he was curious as she gave him a head tilt of contemplation before responding. "I don't think you'll have anything to worry about. Have a great rest of your night, I'm gonna go settle up with Punch."

Morningstar was curious about this as his commanding officer made her way to the bar. The clearing of a throat that was somehow in rhythm caught his attention and made him turn. The look in the cyan eyes surprisingly close to his own made his knees buckle slightly beneath him. 

"After such a lovely and interesting conversation, I have had some deep rumination. That such a night with such a friend, does not need to come to an end. So unless a stallion of such a great pedigree, would send a mare alone into the Everfree, then perhaps you can show me to the quarters of your station, and perhaps this night can end in some....relaxation. 

Morningstar felt his mouth go dry. "I..I thought after we first met that you really didn't like me all that much."

Zecora smiled a smile that made Morningstar blush. "First impressions can be overcome, now if there are no objections let us go have some fun."

Berrytwist and Berrypunch watched the two leave together. Fizzlepop was sliding her bit bag back into her hoodie as she decided to comment on the situation. "Honestly, probably a better turn out. He really is ruthless when he hasn't slept enough. Probably better for him to just stay up at this point." Berrypunch snickered at the words. "What did you do?"

"Nothing, nothing at all. I just happen to know that Zecora has some zebra brew of some kind that will perk anypony up like no coffee ever could. Seriously, if you're not black out drunk, it'll keep you awake for three days. She sells it to me so I can use it to wake up the harder sleeping drunks around here." She snickered more. "I also happen to know that she took four extra bottles of it with her."

"Well, he does have a certain love for Zebra culture." Fizzlepop considered this for a few moments. She shrugged in acceptance. "Looks like I'm not the only one who's going to enjoy the next week."

Berrypunch disappeared under the bar for a moment. Upon returning she presented an expensive looking bottle to Fizzlepop. "Congrats, in all seriousness."

Fizzlepop paused before reaching out. "Shouldn't I wait until I actually ask her to start accepting gifts though?"

Berrypunch motioned it to her again. "Something tells me you're gonna be fine. Enjoy your vacation, you and Twilight. You both deserve it."

Fizzlepop nodded, and accepted the gesture of kindness.
> Fireworks
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Two mares sat atop a ridge. It was one of the highest points for miles around and below them they could see out over most of the island they were visiting. The larger mare sat slightly aside and behind, allowing the smaller to snuggle into her. From a pack on her side the larger mare pulled a small bottle, just big enough for two. 

"I'm not sure it's the right time, but a mutual friend gave me this. I've been looking for a good time to pop it open."

Twilight Sparkle turned her head only a little, seeming to not want to separate from her position pressed into the chest and neck of her marefriend. She saw the bottle Fizzlepop held up and giggled. "Berrypunch I'm guessing. She would somehow know the one brand of champagne I actually enjoy."

Fizzlepop giggled just a little at that too as the smaller mare's horn pulsed comfortably against her. Their magic opened the bottle with ease and in the same flash the cork instantly transformed into a pair of cups. A generous amount was poured into each. However Twilight hesitated before passing one of the cups into Fizzlepop's waiting hoof. 

"Oh, but wait. If it's champagne, don't we need something to celebrate?" Twilight implied this playfully while holding Fizzlepop's cup just out of reach. 

Fizzlepop smiled at this, and hoped Twilight couldn't feel her heart rate increase as she reached out and spoke playfully as well. "Oh, but I think I do have something to celebrate though."

"You do?" Twilight inquired, seemingly slightly taken aback at this. Fizzlepop felt her wings rustle at her side. 

Fizzlepop took the cup and held it where Twilight could touch hers to it before responding. "Yeah, I think I do." They shared a drink at her encouragement. "Something a friend told me has had me thinking for a bit, and I think I've managed to remember something very important."

Twilight pulled away, setting their cups down and now looking at the mare she loved with genuine curiosity. "And what is that?"

"The exact moment I think I started to fall in love with you." Twilight blushed a little as Fizzlepop pressed their noses together gently before nudging her to look back over the ridge.

Below the rest of the island seemed to be ready to end the festival the pair had been enjoying the past couple days. Fizzlepop indicated this, pointing down to where certain preparations were finishing. Twilight followed the motion, in the process leaning her head in to caress the leg. She nuzzled into the painted fur there, following the looping and swirling floral designs to where a sudden spark illuminated the mild summer darkness below. Soon a streak of fire shot into the air. Before long the sky in front of them was filled with color as a fireworks show began.

For the size of the island the display was likely very grand. But the spectacle of it wasn't quite grand enough for Twilight to understand. She looked back to her marefriend for clarification, who smiled smugly to her. A moment later sparks began to gather at the end of her broken horn. With the slightest wince of effort a blazing shot rocketed into the sky high above the current display. 

Twilight's eyes now lit up in wonder as the layers of fireworks exploded together. She felt herself lean forward to take in the vibrant purples and greens intermingled above the multicolored backdrop. The beauty of it finally triggered a memory in Twilight as well, and tears started forming at the corners of her eyes. 

"It's absolutely beautiful Fizz." She rubbed a hoof across her eyes as she began to turn back to the mare she loved. "There's something I really need to..."

The words hit a wall as Twilight froze, her eyes going wide. Before her was the mare she loved, holding out a small black box in her hooves. 

"Sparky, you helped me find the light and the beauty in my life. If you would do me the kindness to stay with me forever, I'll do my best to always bring it to yours as well."

Tears began to stream down Twilight's face even as a shaking smile crept up her cheeks. "Yes," she just barely managed to croak out, "yes yes yes yes yes." The words now flowed as easily as the tears. 

Fizzlepop felt tears forming in her own eyes as Twilight suddenly lunged forward, wrapping her up in a hug and silently sobbing into her shoulder. "You've made me so happy," she whispered just loud enough to hear through the still roaring show.

"I'm so happy too Fizz." Twilight took a moment to completely absorb the moment. Fighting back a sob of happiness she continued in an attempted sarcastic tone. "But you are also such a jerk."

Fizzlepop, being more curious than taken aback at the statement, laughed through her own sob of joy before responding. "I know, but just for clarification what are you referring to at the moment?"

Twilight laughed a little as well. "You..... beat me to it."

This actually did take Fizzlepop aback some, causing her to pull away just slightly as both mares seemed to be running short on tears. "You... you were going to....?" Twilight nodded to the question, smiling slyly. "I beat you... by how much," she asked as pieces of the last few days came together in her mind and her smile grew warmer.

Twilight's wings ruffled, and she reached in under one with a hoof. From there she pulled out a small black box. "Like, four or five seconds."

"Do it," Fizzlepop exclaimed, planting herself in front of her fiancée like an excited puppy. "I want to see what you planned too."

Twilight slipped the box back under her wing before squaring up with the anxiously waiting mare. "Fizz, I really need to ask you something that is very serious."

Fizzlepop smiled at the pause in the clearly practiced speech. "Serious? And yet you've spent so much time getting me to lighten up."

Twilight smiled triumphantly. Clearly Fizzlepop had managed to play along with at least one of the scripts Twilight had written for this moment. "So then you know just how important this is to me." She pulled the ring out, and Fizzlepop did her best to act surprised. "In every way I can possibly ask, will you stay by my side forever?"

Despite knowing it was coming, the words still brought another small round of tears to Fizzlepop. "It would be my greatest honor."

Both opened their respective boxes, and fitted the rings around each other's hooves. Admiring each for a few moments, Twilight was the first to speak up. "Is... is that a peridot?"

Fizzlepop smiled warmly, knowing Twilight was already piecing things together. "It's not cut from the same stone, but it is crafted by the same hooves. I just wanted it to be there, so that you can know I'll be there to protect you, always."

Twilight was breathing heavily, fighting back tears as she did. Reaching forward for a kiss helped that some. "That... was grandma Sparkle's." Fizzlepop was taken aback at that. "She passed when I was young, but said she always wanted to know the type of pony who could make me happy." Twilight looked into Fizzlepop's eyes. "I wanted to give it to you, because I know you don't think you have any family anymore. I want you to know that you're my family, with all that implies. Because I love you. More than anything."

Fizzlepop didn't reply with words. It was her turn to lean forward and bring their lips together. For a long time they couldn't break away. Even after their lips parted they stayed there for a time, horns brushing delicately.

"Hey Fizz," the thundering from Twilight's chest made her need to ask one question. "Are the fireworks still going?"

"As long as we're together, I promise they'll never stop."
> Epilog: Many Happy Endings
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Fluttershy took to the sky, leaving the friendship academy behind her much faster than she normally would. Even if the first stop on her mission had been a bust, she had her suspicions that her task had only been made easier by not finding her intended target. 

The widely smiling pegasus gripped a still sealed scroll to her chest as she flew. The Everfree began to pass below her quickly as she went, barely able to contain her glee. She noticed the scenery she flew above turn familiar just before the gentle smoke from a small huts chimney became noticeable through the canopy. Her wings flattened against her sides as she went down in a dive bomb that would normally be way out of her comfort zone. 

She flared her wings and came to a possibly harder stop on the ground than she intended. The noise of it seemed to cause a commotion in the hut as the sound of some hurried and uncoordinated movements could be heard within. Fluttershy hurried to the door and knocked enthusiastically.

A few moments and some hushed words passed in the hut before the door opened only wide enough for the owner to poke her head out. 

"Ah Fluttershy my good friend, to what pleasure do I have your visit to lend?"

Fluttershy smiled knowingly. "Hey Zecora, is Morningstar here too?"

The smile Zecora made looked wrong on the normally in control mare. "Oh but my friend I live in the Everfree, why in the world would you think this is where Starry would be?"

"..... Starry?" Zecora's awkward smile went bigger at Fluttershy's implied inquiry. She just smiled smugly as she presented the scroll and spoke louder than necessary if only the mare in front of her was listening.  "Spike got a message from Fizzlepop earlier."

There was another sound of uncoordinated movements from within the hut. Zecora winced before her head slumped and she pushed the door open. From within Morningstar smiled sheepishly as he stood from the floor he'd apparently just fallen to. "Heh heh, hey Shy. What's our dear commander got to say?"

Fluttershy just smiled at the situation. "I figured you two would like to read it as well, so I haven't broken the seal yet."

Zecora seemed to have recovered from her embarrassment. "A good mare in my measure, if I might have the pleasure?" She asked this while extending a hoof.

Fluttershy smiled as she passed it to her. "Sure, even if I think you already were."

Zecora seemed to not notice the jab despite the color that now came to her cheeks. Morningstar came up next to her as she opened the scroll, comfortably close if Fluttershy was the judge. Upon unrolling it another scroll rolled out. 

"Another message that I see, what double joy can there be?"

Morningstar picked up the other scroll and examined it before presenting it to Fluttershy. "Another one for you."

Fluttershy checked it herself and smiled.  "Me and the girls. But I imagine they wouldn't care if you two saw it." She began to open that one as well. 

Morningstar and Zecora read the first note, smiles coming to their faces. Fluttershy smiled as well. Morningstar turned theirs to Fluttershy. Three words. "She said yes!"

Fluttershy smiled wider as she showed the other. "She beat me to it. I said yes!"

The group shared a collective sigh of relief. Morningstar broke the brief silence. "So, who's maid of honor have you decided to be?"

He directed it to Fluttershy, who smiled shyly. "You never know Morningstar, Fizzlepop might have used some of your advice. Maybe you'll be the maid of honor."

Zecora had to suppress a giggle as Morningstar responded. "Yeah, she probably would do that, just so she could make me wear a dress."

"If it was to help such a friend, there is no taboo you would not bend." She reached to gently stroke his chin with her hoof

Morningstar chuckled at that. "Yeah, probably. They deserve their happiness."

Fluttershy thought of her own love. She also looked at the new couple before her. "We all do."