> Sparkling Harmony EQG: Agents of SMILE: Young Love > by Captain_Cosmos > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > Episode 1: The Name’s Medley, Sparkling Medley > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Canterlot High Canterlot City September 1st 2022 0740hrs It was a bright sunny day in Canterlot City. Canterlot high was booming with activity as students and faculty arrived for the start of a brand new school year. A black Pegasus Model 10X Zoomer with pink and blue stripes pulled into one of the student parking spaces and cut its engine. Its doors opened to let Sparkler and Autumn step out. “Well, here it is. Welcome to Canterlot High Sparkler.” Autumn said. Sparkler took a look at Canterlot High. It was a three story building with a dome on top. “Definitely bigger than my old school.” She commented. “Nervous?” Autumn asked. Sparkler laughed. “You’re talking to the girl that has a, quite frankly overexaggerated rep as the best in the business. This is nothing.” She said. Right then, her glasses HUD lit up and directed her attention to the statue in front of the school, when it was in her view, her HUD showed crazy readings from the statue. “Hey Autumn? What’s up with the statue?” She asked as the two of them started for the school building. Autumn chuckled. “You’re getting readings from it right? That’s probably the portal to the alternate world. The source of all magic here.” She explained. Sparkler nodded as she blinked to get the HUD out of her sight. “Ya know I saw what my counterpart looks like. And wow she’s quite the beautiful pony.” She commented. “Let me guess. She had pink wings with gradient blue tips?” She asked. “And a horn.” Sparkler responded. “I think Sunset called her an Alicorn.” “Has she talked about anything else regarding your counterpart?” She asked. “She’s about to be married to her world’s Twilight and has 11 adopted kids with said Twilight.” Sparkler responded. “Whew, 11 kids. Wow.” Autumn said. “I know right? It’s nuts.” Sparkler responded. “Hey Autumn! Sparkler!” The two roommates heard someone call out. They turned and saw Rainbow Dash skid to a halt beside them. Autumn smiled. “Rainbow.” She said. “Hey Dash, how’s it going?” Sparkler asked. “Overslept, had to use my Geode to speed over here.” Rainbow responded. “Bummed that summer’s over.” Sparkler chuckled. “Had to end sometime. You wouldn’t learn much if Summer lasted forever.” She said. Rainbow rolled her eyes. “Don’t tell me you’re a school loving egghead too.” She said. Sparkler laughed. “Oh no. I like school about as much as any other average kid.” She said. “Whew. Good. We already have an egghead. Don’t need another.” Rainbow said. All three girls laughed as they entered the building, after which Sparkler nodded. “Right, I’ll catch you too later, gotta head to the main office to get my schedule and everything.” Sparkler said. “Later Sparkler.” Rainbow said as she walked off in another direction. “Straight down until you see the first hall on your right, then it’s the first door on your left.” Autumn told Sparkler. “Got it. Thanks Autumn.” Sparkler said as she and Autumn walked off in different directions, Autumn headed to her locker before class, while Sparkler went to the main office. A few moments of following Autumn’s directions, Sparkler saw a sign over a door that read MAIN OFFICE. She noticed freshmen nearby checking out and comparing schedules. “I wonder if I’ll have any classes with anyone I know…” She mused as she entered the main office. She saw a receptionist passing out the schedules and approached her. “Hi, I’m here to pick up my schedule, Sparkling Medley.” Sparkler said. The receptionist smiled as she started checking her schedule pile for Sparkler’s name. “We’ll get you all taken care of in a moment Sparkling Medley. Let’s see…Medley, Medley…” “Did I just hear the name Sparkling Medley?” Asked another receptionist in the room. “Yeah.” The first receptionist said. “Ah. Ok, You won’t find her schedule in there Judith, Principal Celestia has it. She and Vice Principal Luna want to meet with Sparkling Medley personally to discuss something before the year begins.” The second receptionist announced. When she heard that, Sparkler raised an eyebrow. “They want to meet with me before class?” She asked. Confused as all heck, it couldn’t possibly be because she was in trouble, she’d only been a student at Canterlot High for 10 minutes. “That’s what Celestia said.” The second receptionist said. “She didn’t go into specifics so you’ll have to ask her yourself. She told me to send you in when you showed up.” She added. “First door on the right.” Sparkler glanced the way the second receptionist was pointing, and, while her brain continued to try to come up with a reason for the principal summoning her, she walked down the path until she came to the first door on the right, which had Principal Celestia on a name plate attached to the door. After taking a deep breath, she knocked on the door, she heard a muffled voice after a second. “Come in!” The voice said. Sparkler opened the door, and she saw two women that she assumed were Principal Celestia and Vice Principal Luna. “Hi. I was told I had a meeting with the principal and vice principal before class? Would that be you two?” She asked. The woman behind the desk smiled. “Yes. Are you Sparkling Medley? Our new student from abroad?” She asked. “Yeah. That’s me.” Sparkler responded, entering the office fully and closing the door. “Excellent, come have a seat, Vice principal Luna and I just wanted to go over something with you before the year starts.” The woman who confirmed her identity as Principal Celestia said. Sparkler nodded and sat down in the chair next to Luna. “I was told you had my schedule, is there something wrong with it?” She asked. Her brain came up with the theory that maybe there was an error with it. “Nothing’s wrong with your schedule.” Vice Principal Luna responded. “We just received a rather interesting email regarding you.” She said. Sparkler blinked in total confusion. Email? She wasn’t aware of any emails sent about her. “…What email?” She asked after a moment. Completely and utterly lost. Celestia smiled as she clicked a few times on her computer before turning her monitor so Sparkler could see it. Sparkler studied the screen, and it only took five seconds before her expression turned to one of horror. “Uh…” she said as she read the email. Dear Principal Celestia, This is Director Derrick of SMILE, I am contacting you to inform you that I am assigning agent Sparkling Medley to Canterlot, as such she’ll be a student at your school. If you could ensure that she doesn’t fail her classes due to poor attendance, assuming the right circumstances, it is in the best interest of our planet. As usual this is confidential information that is not to be discussed with anyone outside of those connected to this email. Have a good year. Sincerely, Derrick. In that moment, Sparkler was not sure what she wanted to do. One part of her was telling her to use Forget me Gas. Another was furious that Derrick didn’t think to tell her before sending that email, and the final part wanted to hide. Luna smirked and crossed her arms. “SMILE must really be worried about the magic around here if it’s assigning another agent to keep watch.” She commented. Something inside Sparkler snapped and she tapped her watch. A holographic dome expanded from it and encompassed the whole room. “Now we can talk without outsiders hearing. Ok what the heck do you two know?” Sparkler asked frantically. “That you, Bonbon, Lyra, Autumn, and Mr. McCain are SMILE agents that started showing up here after magic started pouring into this world.” Celestia responded. “And Derrick sends this email to ensure that you can actually progress through high school without worrying about attendance.” She added. Sparkler heard the words, but she still had a hard time believing it, not that Derrick cared about their education, Derrick clearly did, but to go this far? THAT was something she never expected from him. Luna broke the silence after a moment. “Personally I’m glad we have another agent around here. Sunset Shimmer and her friends are capable of dealing with the magic but it never hurts to have backup.” She commented. Sparkler looked between the two several times, before making a decision. You know what? Fine. If Derrick has done this before he knows what he’s doing. “Is that all you needed to meet with me about?” She asked. “Yes.” Celestia responded. “So long as you do the work you’re assigned, attendance will not be taken into consideration when making up your grade.” She said as she handed Sparkler a folder. “Here’s your schedule, locker number and combination, and the protocols regarding magical incidents.” She said. “Welcome to Canterlot High Sparkler.” Sparkler nodded as she took the folder. “Happy to be here.” She said as she deactivated the dome, and left the room. Ok, that wasn’t what I thought would happen. She thought. She glanced at her schedule to see that she had Shop class first. “Shop class. Right.” She said as she walked off to class using the map she found in the folder. At the ring of the bell to signal the end of class, Sparkler used her map to find her locker. She was lucky enough to get some time in private to scan the map into her watch so she didn’t need to rely on the paper anymore. She quickly located her locker near the front of the school and fiddled with the lock using the combination she was given. “Ok. Left a little bit, right 90 degrees and another left and…” She heard the satisfying click and she opened her locker. “Good thing I took lockpicking.” She commented, before seeing a small disk affixed to the bottom of her locker, curious, she touched it, and was surprised when a holographic image of Derrick’s head appeared. “Hello Sparkler.” Derrick said. Sparkler jumped back a tad. “Derrick? What’s going on?” She asked. “Your new way of contacting me directly.” Derrick responded. Sparkler glanced around, before smiling, she was gonna wait but since she had Derrick here. “Well thanks, hey, while I got you here. Mind explaining why you neglected to tell me you were emailing the principals? Imagine my surprise when I found out they knew about our work.” She said. “Huh?” Derrick asked. “I CCed you in the email I sent?” “I never GOT that email.” Sparkler said. “Oh. Huh. My apologies.” Derrick responded. “Anywho, have a good rest of the day. I shall call when you’re needed.” With that, Derrick’s head vanished. Sparkler sighed as she shook her head. “Advanced in some areas, susceptible to reality in others.” She commented. “Hey Sparkler! What’s up?” Asked a familiar voice from behind her. Sparkler turned to see Bonbon and Lyra approach. She smiled at them. “Hey guys.” She said. “How’s your first day as a Wondercolt going?” Lyra asked. “Well, Apparently Celestia and Luna know about our line of work, and my shop teacher REALLY likes wood.” Sparkler responded. “How about you two?” She asked. Bonbon lost her smile as she and Lyra held up their schedules. “Tell us what you see here.” She told Sparkler. “Uh…your schedules?” Sparkler asked. “Notice anything wrong with them?” Lyra asked. “Not particularly.” Sparkler responded, she gave the schedules a look and didn’t see anything wrong with them. “Neither of us have any classes together.” Bonbon responded. “Not even lunch!” Lyra added, both her and Bonbon clearly displeased. Sparkler’s eyes widened when she realized what they were insinuating. They were mad they weren’t going to be able to spend as much time together as they wanted. “Oh. I see. You’re mad you can’t spend all day together.” She said. Bonbon nodded. “Lyra and I are partners in every sense of the word. Friendship, teammates, lovers.” She stated. “It’s always Lyra and Bonbon. Not JUST Lyra and JUST Bonbon. We’re clearly a package deal.” Lyra said. “It’s insulting that they didn’t see that we’re meant to stay together all day when they made the schedules.” Bonbon stated, crossing her arms and pouring. Sparkler couldn’t help but chuckle. “Ok, you guys DO realize that it’s next to impossible for you to stay by each other’s side 24/7 right?” She asked. “I mean, I get you’re totally in love and all but what if you two were to…get jobs at different companies?” She asked. “Sparkler, we already HAVE jobs at the same company, and I don’t think we’ll be quitting anytime soon.” Bonbon deadpanned. “Could be fired.” Sparkler responded simply. “I’m just saying that sometimes life is going to separate you two. Plain and simple.” She said. “Yeah well, just because life does it doesn’t mean we have to go down without a fight. Come on Lyra, let’s go see Celestia and get our schedules fixed.” Bonbon said as she grabbed Lyra’s arm and pulled her along. “Welcome to Canterlot High Sparkler!” Lyra called out as they left. Sparkler watched them go and chuckled. “The way those two are acting, you’d swear they’re secretly already married.” She commented as she turned back to her locker. She was putting her shop textbook away when she heard wobbling from next to her, followed by a crash, and finally an ugh from what sounded like a teenage female. Sparkler glanced down at the floor and saw a book had fallen. Deciding to be a good locked neighbor, she quickly knelt down. “Here, let me get that.” She said as she picked up the book, stood back up, and held it out for the girl next to her. What happened next Sparkler could never have prepared for. The locker door next to her closed a bit and the girl peaked her head out. The girl had lavender skin, her hair was tied in a ponytail, and she had magenta eyes that were framed by glasses. Holy…Sparkler thought. The girl next to her was gorgeous to Sparkler’s completely homosexual heart. “Oh, thank you.” The girl said as she took the book from Sparkler, she hadn’t noticed Sparkler staring at her. “Hey, I don’t think I’ve seen you around here before. Are you new?” She asked. Sparkler somehow was able to respond to her question with a nod. The girl smiled and held out her hand. “Nice. I’m Twilight. Twilight Sparkle.” Twilight introduced herself. Sparkler saw the hand, and somehow managed to maneuver her own hand to grab Twilight’s and shake it. “I-I’m Medley, Sparkling Medley. B-but you can call me Sparkler for short.” She stuttered. Aww crap my stuttering is back! She thought. And for real. HOW is it possible to be that darn stunning! Twilight’s eyes widened. “Wait, Sparkling Medley? As in Autumn Apple’s new roommate and the girl that can Crystalize?” She asked. “Y-yeah.” Sparkler responded. Lightly blushing. Of course they’re gonna tell their friend about their discovery. “Uh, I promise I’m not an evil villain or anything! Just…just something that happens periodically!” She exclaimed quickly. Immediately regretting it. Twilight giggled. “Sunset pinkie promised you weren’t evil. And I trust she knows what she’s doing.” She responded, to which Sparkler sighed in relief, but also kicking herself for saying that. “So uh…guess we’re locker neighbors then.” Sparkler commented. “Yes we are. Ooh, we should compare schedules. See if we have any classes together.” Twilight responded, pulling out her schedule. Sparkler knew first period wasn’t going to be a class the two had together, but in that moment, she HOPED that they had every other class together as she pulled out her own schedule. The two glanced at each other’s and Twilight smiled. “Ooh. Looks like we’re gonna spend the afternoons together for class starting with lunch.” She said. May not be all day but I’ll take it. Sparkler thought. “Yeah. Looks like it.” She said. “Looking forward to getting to know you better.” She said. “Me too.” Twilight said cheerfully. “I’ve been wanting to get to know the magical new girl.” She said. At that moment, the warning bell rang and Twilight frowned. “Aww. Gotta get to class.” She said. “Nice meeting you Sparkler, see you at lunch.” She said as she closed her locker and scooted off to her next class. Sparkler watched her go, and smiled. “Hope to see her even before lunch. We’re locker neighbors after all.” She commented, to which Flappy responded in her earpiece. “Your pheromone levels just rose dramatically. Hoping you and this world’s Twilight get together like your respective pony counterparts?” He asked slyly. Sparkler blushed like mad as she closed her locker and walked to her next class. “Flappy! We only just met two minutes ago!” She responded. “Although…I won’t deny that she’s drop dead gorgeous.” She admitted. “Think she’s single and wouldn’t mind dating another girl?” Flappy asked. “Who knows…but I want to find out.” Sparkler said as she walked off, trying not to blush anymore at the thought of Twilight Sparkle. To be continued… > Episode 2: Contact Established > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Canterlot High Canterlot City October 1st 2022 1500hrs “Alright, see you tomorrow Sparkler.” Twilight said as she closed her locker. “Yeah. See you tomorrow Twi.” Sparkler responded, waving as Twilight walked away. Once she was gone, she sighed and turned back to her locker. “God why does she have to be so effortlessly adorable?” She asked no one in particular. She had been living in Canterlot for two months now, she had known Twilight for half that time, and in that time, she came to enjoy her time with Twilight the most out of all her new friends. She’d look forward to every class she had with her, she’d hope she’d be paired up with her for partner assignments, and of course she always hoped Twilight would be there when she and Autumn hung out with her cousin’s friend group. Not to say she didn’t enjoy hanging out with her other friends, but…well, let’s just say she definitely would say yes to Twilight over everyone else. “Ya know you won’t know if she’s interested if you never ask her right?” Asked Flappy. Sparkler groaned. “I know.” She said. “But we’ve only known each other for a month. What if it’s too soon? What if she thinks I’m weird and creepy? What if she says no?” “Something wrong Sparkler?” Sparkler heard Autumn ask. She glanced behind her to see her roommate approach. Sparkler sighed as she closed her locker for the day. “You could say that.” She said. “Would that be yer crush on Twilight?” Asked Applejack, who came up behind Autumn. Sparkler sighed. It didn’t take too long before her friends picked up that Sparkler had a crush on Twilight. Ever since Pinkie got too excited and exposed it, thankfully when Twilight WASN’T there, but still. “Yeah. I can’t stop thinking about her. Every morning when I open my eyes, every evening when Autumn and I turn out the lights, I can feel it’s more than a crush. I’ve fallen hard for her.” She said. “Of course you have!” Pinkie said as she suddenly appeared out of nowhere. “You two are perfect for each other, your counterparts engagement across the mirror proves it!” She exclaimed. Sparkler jumped when Pinkie appeared, but true to Sunset’s word, she had gotten used to it. She frowned at the counterparts thing. “Ahem, just because they’re together doesn’t mean WE’LL get together. They may be our counterparts but they’re still different people, er, ponies.” She told Pinkie. “Well that also doesn’t mean you WON’T get together.” Pinkie said. “There’s a real chance.” She said, before inexplicably disappearing down the hall. Sparkler, Autumn, and AJ watched her go, and AJ just chuckled and shook her head. “That Pinkie Pie I’ll tell ya.” She said. “She does have a point though Sugarcube.” She said. “Well how would I even go about asking—“ Sparkler said before being cut off by Flappy. “Warning, suspicious activity detected near the Sparkmobile.” Flappy warned her. “—asking her out.” Sparkler finished without skipping a beat as she and the Apple girls walked down the hall out the front door. Suspicious activity near my car? Autumn was the first to notice what she didn’t know Flappy eluded to just now, because she couldn’t hear him. She smirked and crossed her arms. “Well, you could start by curbing her intrigue about your car.” Autumn said as she pointed to it. Confused, Sparkler looked over to where her car was parked, and her heart stopped when she saw Twilight definitely looking at it. Oh no. She thought, she didn’t know what Twilight was doing near her car, but she DID know that she was there for a reason. She gulped. “Why would my car intrigue her? It’s nothing special.” She said. “Maybe it’s more special than ya thought.” Applejack responded. Sparkler inwardly was panicking. She was confident Twilight wouldn’t find all the secret spy stuff loaded into her car, but that did nothing to ease her mind. “Maybe we should wait until she—“ “Nope.” Autumn and Applejack said as once, before Autumn nudged her forward. “This is your best chance. Seize it.” Autumn told her. After seeing a thumbs up from Applejack, Sparkler made up her mind as she started walking towards Twilight and her car. “You CAN tell her about one upgrade.” Flappy told her. “The souped up sound system you installed over the summer.” That actually put Sparkler at ease. He’s right! I actually can tell her about one thing unique! With that on her mind, she smiled as she approached Twilight. “Hey Twi. What’s up?” She asked. That apparently spooked Twilight as she jumped and spun around, revealing a scanning device she was holding that Sparkler couldn’t see before. “Sparkler! Hi.” Twilight said, she glanced at the scanner before hiding it behind her back. “Ahem, Autumn met you at your locker early today.” She commented. “Yeah. She did.” Sparkler said. “Scanner pick up something about my car” She asked. Twilight blushed and smiled sheepishly, knowing she was caught, she had planned on scanning Sparkler’s car after four weeks of picking up all sorts of bizarre readings from it. “Uhm. Well…” She said, not knowing what to say. After a few seconds, she sighed. “I uh…been picking up some strange readings from your car over the last few weeks.” She admitted. “I was curious so I thought maybe I’d take a few scans to figure it out.” She said. Sparkler chuckled. “Probably just the souped up sound system I DIYed into this thing.” She explained. “You upgraded the sound system in your car?” Twilight asked. “Isn’t the Pegasus Model 10X Zoomer supposed to be THE top of the line car with all the latest technology available to the public?” She asked. “Maybe at the time of this particular car’s construction. But that was a year ago. A better sound system has come out.” Sparkler said, which was true. “Wow. That’s really impressive.” Twilight responded. “What else did you do to the car?” Crap! Sparkler inwardly groaned. She knew Twilight was gonna ask that. And of course she couldn’t say anything else because the rest of the mods were SMILE issue and she couldn’t talk about those. “That’s about it really, just the sound system.” She said. Hoping like heck Twilight believed her. Twilight looked at Sparkler quizzically for a few seconds, she in fact found it hard to believe that a mere sound system could produce such bizarre readings, but then again, she wasn’t an expert in that field so it was entirely possible. After a few seconds, she smiled. “Well, I’d love to know how you did it. I’ve heard cars like these are next to impossible to modify.” She said. “That’s what they want you to think.” Sparkler responded. “But they’re easier to upgrade yourself than you think. You doing anything this weekend?” She asked. Oh dear god am I really segueing into asking Twilight out from talking about auto technology?! Sparkler thought to herself. “Hmmm…” Twilight ram through her mind to see if she had anything going on. “No, I don’t think I have anything going on.” She said. “Well, I could explain how I upgraded the sound system in my car…over dinner perhaps?” Sparkler asked, her cheeks heating up a bit and her heart racing. Twilight’s eyes widened. “Y-you mean like a date? A date date?” She asked, feeling her own cheeks heating up. “Yeah.” Sparkler responded. “If you want to of course. Heheh.” She added, rubbing her arm nervously. The next couple of seconds were Sparkler and Twilight blushing and glancing in other directions nervously. After a sec, Twilight finally nodded. “Y-yeah. Sure, I’d love to go out with you Sparkler.” She said. Sparkler almost couldn’t believe she actually said yes, but nonetheless, she smiled. “Great.” She said. “I’ll make the reservation and text you the time and place.” She said. “Sounds good.” Twilight responded. She glanced down at her scanner and chuckled nervously as she pocketed it. “Sounds great actually.” She said. “Yeah.” Sparkler responded as Twilight started walking away. “See you tomorrow?” Twilight asked. “Yeah, see you tomorrow.” Sparkler said, waving as Twilight walked away. The moment she was out of earshot, Sparkler let out an excited squeal. “Score!” She said. “Smooth Sparkler. Super smooth.” Autumn said, Sparkler turned to see Autumn and AJ approach. “Did I hear right when you said you DIYed your own car’s sound system?” Applejack asked. Sparkler nodded as she whipped out her phone. “Yeah. You did AJ.” She said as she pulled up Rarity’s number. Sparkler: Rarity, I need help. Got any advice for a first date? “Who’re you texting Sparks?” Autumn asked. “Rarity. Asked her for advice on a first date.” Sparkler said as she pocketed her phone. She realized immediately that she never actually been on a date before. Applejack laughed. “Oh Sugarcube, you just unleashed a kraken. Three, two, one.” She counted down. When she said one, Sparkler’s phone started lighting up with texts from Rarity. Rarity: You got a date?! Rarity: With who? Rarity: Is it Twilight? Rarity: Where are you going? Rarity: when is it? Rarity: give me the details girl! Sparkler laughed as Rarity kept sending her text after text. “Should I wait for her to calm down before responding?” She asked. “Maybe.” Autumn said. “Give her a few minutes.” Applejack said. Sparkler nodded, her mind racing. I can’t believe I actually scored a date with Twilight. I hope Airwave will give me the night off on Saturday. She thought. After submitting the application, Sparkler was called in for an interview and scored a position as a waitress at Airwave’s Airwave. Autumn and Lyra eventually scoring positions as well. Sparkler was ecstatic to be working for her favorite music artist. “Gotta talk to Airwave tonight, request the night off on Saturday.” Autumn chuckled. “I’m sure he’ll give you a night. You’re the star waitress after all.” She said. Sparkler blushed. “Oh I don’t know about that. Everyone else is good too.” She said. “Sure. Keep telling yourself that.” Autumn said. Sparkler rolled her eyes as she and the Apple cousins got into her car. “Anyway, time to head home before work.” She said. To be continued… > Episode 3: Mission Prep > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sparkle Residence Outskirts of Canterlot City October 5th 2022 1600hrs “Ooh. Today’s the day Night-Mare!” Twilight said to her twin sister as she rummaged through her closet. “Today’s the day that Sparkling Medley and I go out on a date.” She said. Night-Mare Sparkle, Twilight’s blue-skinned Twin sister, chuckled as she leaned against her bed in their shared room. “Haven’t seen you this excited since you transferred to Canterlot High last year.” She commented. “Sparkler must REALLY be interesting if you willfully threw out your plan to read and study all weekend to get ready for this date.” She joked. Twilight blushed. She would be the first to admit she was indeed excited for this. “She said she’d tell me how she managed to DIY upgrade her car’s sound system. She thinks that’s what’s lighting up all my scanners this past month.” She said. “I’ve never heard of a sound system that could give off crazy readings.” Night-Mare commented. “Whatever she did to it must’ve been good.” “Maybe she’ll even let me take a more in-depth look at the car. As well as her herself. You heard the news right?” Twilight asked. “That she can Crystalize and Pony Up, yeah. I think I heard it 10 times already in this house.” Night-Mare responded. “Yeah. It’s just so fascinating. As far as any of us can tell she doesn’t have a Geode, so logically she SHOULDN’T be able to harness magic, and yet, she can…somehow to some extent.” Twilight explained. “Oh I wish I was there to see it the last time she did transform, she must’ve looked so majestic.” “Twilight.” Night Mare said. “It sounds to me like you’ve got a crush on her.” She stated. Twilight blushed like mad at that. “W-what makes you say that?” She asked. “You always are excited when you two get paired up for a group project, you always hope, out loud, that Sparkker is there whenever your friend group gets together. And this.” Night Mare responded as she held up her phone with a recording app and hit the play button. Twilight was then treated to a recording of her own voice, clearly at night. “Mmm. Let’s study that pendant Sparky. Maybe that’s the source of your ability…” Night-Mare stopped the recording. “This is just ONE example of the multiple things I’ve heard at night.” She said, trying not to laugh. “Oh, and back to the group projects, you also always insist that you and Sparkler work on the projects at her place, or ANYWHERE else but here, like you’re trying to hide her from us. All that together makes it seem like you have a serious crush.” She said, snickering a little. “Also there’s the fact you call her Sparky. Cute little nickname.” She added. Twilight pouted…before sighing. “I just don’t know Nighty, there’s a mystery surrounding her and I do like a mystery. But…I just feel this pull towards her. I have this desire for us to be a part of each other’s lives in a deeper way than mere friendship.” She said. “What would you say that is?” She asked. “I’d say that’s full blown love.” Said an adult woman’s voice. Twilight and Night-Mare turned to see their sister in law, Cadence, leaning against the doorframe. Night-Mare and Twilight smiled. “Cadence! Hi!” Twilight said. “Hey Cadence. How’s it going?” Night-Mare asked. “It’s going great Night-Mare.” Cadence responded as she turned her focus to Twilight. “A little birdie told me you have a date this evening.” She said. “Yeah.” Twilight admitted, blushing. “With the new girl at Canterlot High, Sparkling Medley.” “Is she that one girl in the video that was singing and she crystalized and ponied up?” Cadence asked. “Yep.” Night-Mare responded. “That’s her.” Cadence smiled and nudged Twilight playfully. “I see you have good taste Twily.” She said. Twilight blushed harder. “Come on guys. I’m already nervous.” She said. “Ah you know we’re just teasing you Twily. It’s great that you have eyes for someone.” Night-Mare said. “I was starting to worry that you’d fall for a book, or heck, even Spike.” She joked. Spike, Twilight’s talking dog, laughed. “Me and Twilight together?” He asked. “You’d have to have an insane mind to even write that down in a fanfic.” He said. Night-Mare and Cadence chuckled along with him while Twilight pouted again. “Why do I ever tell you guys anything?” She asked. “What? Were you not gonna tell us you were getting married until the day of or something?” Night-Mare asked jokingly. Twilight buried her face in her pillow to hide her embarrassment. “This is why I haven’t invited Sparkler over you know.” She commented. Cadence chuckled as she sat next to her on the bed. “Aww lighten up Twilight. We really are happy that you’re going on a date. It’s exciting.” She said. Twilight sighed. “Ugh, I just…I’ve never been on a date before? What if something goes wrong? What if she stands me up? What if our date is ruined by a prank?” She asked a lot of what ifs. “Well, if she hurts you in any way she’ll be dealing with your siblings.” Night-Mare commented. “As for the date being a prank. I don’t believe anyone would be so cruel.” Cadence said. “I just…I want this to go perfect.” Twilight said. “And so long as you have fun it will.” Cadence said. Twilight looked to her smiling sisters, before smiling herself. “I hope it is fun.” She said. Canterlot Boutique Canterlot City October 5th 2022 1645hrs “Here Sparkler! Try these on!” Rarity told Sparkler as she shoved a shinier blue bow and jacket into her hands. Sparkler managed to catch the two articles of clothing and couldn’t help but chuckle. “Sparkly jacket and Bow?” She asked. “Yes darling.” Rarity responded as she pushed Sparkler into a change booth in her store, the Canterlot Boutique. “This is your first date with Twilight and you must look your best!” She explained. She turned to Sunset. “Sunset, Autumn confirmed their reservation at Airwave’s Airwave right?” She asked. Sunset chuckled and checked her phone, seeing a text from Autumn. “Yeah. Autumn says they’re all good.” She said. Rarity beamed in delight. It was the day of Twilight’s and Sparkler’s first date and Rarity had taken it upon herself to make sure the date would go perfectly. “Perfect.” She said. Sunset chuckled and rolled her eyes. While the curtain to the changing room opened and Sparkler stepped out, wearing the shinier bow and jacket. “How do I look?” She asked. “You look FABULOUS! Doesn’t she look fabulous Sunset?!” Rarity squealed. Sunset got one look at Sparkler and a light, probably unnoticeable blush appeared on her cheeks. “Y-yeah. You look good Sparks.” She said. Sparkler smiled and glanced at herself in a mirror. “Hm. I’ll admit, not bad.” She said. “Could use the jacket and bow for fancier occasions like school picture day.” She commented. “Precisely!” Rarity responded. “Now, you know how the night will go?” She asked. “The plan is to take her to dinner, then take her for a walk in the park to a very specific bench, where I’ll pull out my guitar from under it and sing her a song I wrote myself.” Sparkler explained her plan. “That’s how I’m HOPING the night will go, with the end result being me and Twilight hooking up. But I’m also preparing for everything to go horribly horribly wrong. I heard what happened on my counterpart’s first date.” She added. “Ugh. The nerve of those mules.” She commented. “But don’t worry darling. You have the benefit of having people in place to ensure it goes perfectly.” She assured Sparkler. “Now, is your guitar in your car?” She asked. “Yeah. It’s—“ Sparkler checked her watch and frowned. “Crud, it’s gonna be real right to stop at the park on the way and get my guitar under the bench.” She commented. “Or you could give us your guitar and WE’LL get it into position!” Rarity suggested. “Did you have a specific bench in mind in the park?” She asked. “Not really. It wouldn’t be the nearest one but somewhere in the middle of the park.” Sparkler said. “Alright, Sunset and I will select the bench and get the guitar under it.” Rarity said. “You just focus on Twilight.” She said. Sparkler glanced at Rarity and Sunset, before nodding. “Alright. Sure.” She said. “Great.” Sunset said. “Let’s do the transfer and you can get going.” She said. Sparkler nodded. They walked out to their cars and Sparkler gave Sunset her guitar. “I would appreciate it if you didn’t get a scratch on this if possible.” She said. “Don’t worry Sparks. I know how to handle a guitar.” Sunset responded. “Have a good time Sparkler!” Rarity told Sparkler. “Yeah. Thanks.” Sparkler responded as she got into her car and drove off. Rarity nodded. “Right! Come on Sunset!” She said. “Yeah. Yeah let’s get this over with.” Sunset said with mild enthusiasm as she got into the driver’s seat of Rarity’s car. “Something wrong darling?” Rarity asked. “Nah, nothing’s wrong. I’m really excited that Sparkler is pursuing a crush on a girl that might reject her Vs a girl who WOULDN’T reject her.” Sunset responded. Clearly irritated. Rarity raised an eyebrow and glanced at Sunset. “Sunset what’s wrong?” She asked, mildly sternly. “I like Sparkler ok?” Sunset revealed. “She’s smart, she’s breathtaking, she’s a gamer, she’s overall a wonderful girl to be around and as happy as I am that Twilight is getting attention, because lord knows she could use it after her time at Crystal Prep, it irks me that Sparkler fell for her rather than me.” She explained. Rarity blinked in shock, before crossing her arms and smirking. “Sunset Shimmer. I think you’re jealous.” She suggested. “Not even going to argue with you there. Yeah. I am jealous.” Sunset said. Rarity chuckled. “How long?” She asked. “Two weeks.” Sunset responded. “That’s how long I’ve had a crush on Sparkler.” She said as she started explaining what happened for these feelings of hers to develop, through their regular hangouts for gaming and researching what the flip was going on with Sparkler and Crystalizing. Sparkler meanwhile turned onto Twilight’s address street and took a deep breath as she approached Twilight’s house. “This is it.” She commented. “Operation TwiSpark is a go.” Flappy commented from her car dashboard. “TwiSpark?” Sparkler asked. “Twilight and Sparkler. Your names combined. It sounds great.” Flappy said. Sparkle rolled her eyes. “And that is the last out of you until Twilight’s home again.” She said, reminding Flappy that she did not want to hear a word from her secret agent self tonight. “Acknowledged.” Flappy responded. To be continued… > Episode 4: SMILE is go > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sparkle Residence Outskirts of Canterlot City October 5th, 2022 1645hrs “Are you sure this isn’t too much?” Twilight asked as she looked at herself in the mirror. She was wearing a dark purple dress with light blue trims and a Star pattern lining the bottom. She also wore grey high socks and light blue heels. Night-Mare shook her head. “It’s your first date Twi. Gotta look your best.” She told her. “Nighty, we’re just going to the mall’s food court. Not a fancy restaurant.” Twilight deadpanned. “Location doesn’t really matter Twily.” Cadence said. “Remember the old adage, dress to impress.” She said. Twilight was about to roll her eyes, before she heard a car’s engine getting louder. She glanced out her window and saw a familiar, sleek, black car with blue and pink stripes pull up and parallel park in front of the house. She beamed. “She’s here!” She squealed in delight as she grabbed her handbag and raced out of the room. “Wait! Twily!” Cadence called out. “You’re supposed to let her come to you!” Night-Mare called out. Twilight didn’t seem to listen as she swiftly descended the stairs and went for the front door, before her brother, Shining Armor, stepped in front of her to block her path. “Whoa there Twily. Bit impatient are we?” He asked. Twilight stopped to avoid crashing into Shining. “I’m excited, what can I say?” She asked as she maneuvered around Shining and grabbed the handle. “Usually you’re supposed to wait for her to come to you.” Shining told his little sister. Twilight laughed. “And risk you hounding her and embarrassing me? Maybe if/when we get to the meet the family stage.” She responded. “For now, I’ll be back by curfew!” She said before she opened the door and stepped out, closing the door behind her. Shining watched as his little sister disappeared and couldn’t help but smile and shake his head. “It’s almost like she thinks we TRY to embarrass her.” He commented. “Well I can see why having a police officer for a brother can be a bit nerve wracking in this case.” Cadence commented as she and Night-Mare came downstairs. Night-Mare shook her head. “She can try all she wants. Sooner or later she HAS to bring Sparkler over.” She commented. “It’s basically a—“ She started before being cut off by her phone ringing. She glanced at the screen and frowned. “Oh, work call, gotta take this.” She said. Before Shining and Cadence could question it, Night-Mare rushed up the stairs and locked herself in her bedroom, before answering the call. “Go.” “When is it right to turn the frown upside down?” “It’s always the right time to SMILE.” Night-Mare responded. “To what do I owe the pleasure Director Derrick?” “Did Medley spend any time at your residence at all?” Derrick asked. “She picked up Twilight for a date. Why?” Night-Mare asked. “I’ve been trying to reach her but I can’t—wait did you say date?” Derrick asked. “Yeah. Sparkler and Twilight are going on a date this evening.” Night-Mare said. “Where?” “Airwave’s Airwave in Canterlot mall.” “We have reason to believe FOWL is on the move near the mall. And their movements suggest an attack of some kind.” Derrick said. Night-Mare blinked, her mind racing. “You don’t think they’re after SPARKLER do you?” She asked. “There are currently three agents in the mall right now, and four of the spectacular Seven are at the mall. Two likely targets for FOWL.” Derrick explained. “We’ve been trying to warn Medley but she’s not responding.” He said. “If I had to guess.” Night-Mare said as she got her coat and put it on. “I’d say her AI companion is blocking all calls from SMILE so Sparkler can have a peaceful night with Twilight.” She said. “Ugh. Of course he is.” Derrick replied. “Not that she hasn’t earned a night to herself but FOWL is very likely to not care.” “You said there were three agents at the mall already right?” Night-Mare asked. “Yeah. Agents Lyra, Bonbon, and Autumn.” Derrick responded. “I’ll give them a call, and I’m on my way myself.” She said as she activated a holographic projection of herself in her room and started playing a recording of her voice. So Shining and Cadence wouldn’t question anything. “Good. If you think you can deter FOWL without involving Sparkler then do it.” Derrick said. “SMILE is go.” Night-Mare responded as she snuck out of the room through a window, got her bike, and started pedaling. In the meanwhile, Sparkler stood in front of her car as she saw Twilight come out of her house. “I’ll be back by curfew!” She heard before Twilight closed the door and made her way to her. Sparkler could see that Twilight was wearing a fancier dress than what she normally wore. And by golly did she look stunning in it. Twilight approached and smiled. “Hey there Sparkler.” She said. “How’s it going?” She asked. “It’s uh…it’s going good.” Sparkler responded. “Nice outfit.” She commented. Twilight blushed at the compliment and smiled sheepishly. “Is it too much? I know we’re just going to the mall and this is probably too much but my sister said location didn’t matter.” She explained. “No, no. Y-you look good in that dress. It suits you.” Sparkler responded, blushing. “Thanks. I like your outfit too. Sparkly jacket and Bow. Kinda fits with the name Sparkling Medley.” Twilight said. “Rarity made them for me.” Sparkler explained. “Glad you like it.” She said. “I do. So. Shall we get going? We should probably get out of here before my brother decides to pull you over.” Twilight said with a nervous chuckle. Sparkler giggled as she opened the passenger door to her car. “Your chariot awaits you m’lady.” She said. “Ooh. How chivalrous.” Twilight commented with a giggle of her own as she climbed into the passenger seat. Sparkler closed the door and proceeded to climb into the driver’s seat from the other side. “Off we go.” Sparkler said as she pressed the ignition and put the car in gear. The moment the car started, something happened that spooked Sparkler and shocked Twilight. “Hello there Sparkler. Shall I play some music for this journey?” Asked Flappy. Twilight didn’t notice Sparkler’s slight panic as she stared at the dash in amazement. “Whoa. Talking car.” She observed. “Uh…yeah it’s my…” Sparkler tried to come up with an explanation. I thought I told him to be quiet?! She thought. “I am Sparkler’s homemade FM Lengthy Audio Player Presence.” Flappy said. “Flappy for short.” At that, Sparkler eased up again. “Yeah. Flappy’s the radio upgrade I made. Heheheh.” She said. Nice save Flappy but we are definitely talking later. She thought. Twilight smiled widely. “Amazing! You made an artificial intelligence and put it into a homemade radio?!” She asked excitedly. “Oh that’s just my primary function.” Flappy said. “I can also connect to other car systems, such as the lights and steering and such. Thanks to this unit, the Sparkmobile is a true smart car.” He explained. And now Sparkler was blushing. Thank god I know my way around computers. So I can make it believable that I actually did make Flappy on my own. She thought. While Twilight chuckled. “The Sparkmobile?” She asked Sparkler. “Yeah. Rainbow dubbed it the Sparkmobile due to it being basically the best car anyone at CHS has…not sure about that reasoning but the name stuck so…yeah.” Sparkler explained, blushing. “I like it. It suits a smart car like this.” Twilight replied. Sparkler smiled sheepishly as she kept her eyes on the road. “I will admit it’s kinda growing on me.” She said. “Ahem, so uh. We can put on some music if you want. Feel free to browse the playlists I have.” She offered as Flappy called up a list of playlists. Twilight looked through the list, and couldn’t help but chuckle. “I see you like a lot of Sci-Fi and other works of fiction.” She commented. “Yeah.” Sparkler responded. “I—“ “Wait!” Twilight cut Sparkler off as she spied something. “You have the entire Daring Do soundtrack collection?!” She asked. Sparkler glanced at the dashboard screen and saw that Twilight found her derring do music. “Yeah. Daring Do’s kinda one of my top fandoms.” She said. “No way! Me too!” Twilight squealed in excitement as she tapped a playlist, tapped a random song, and the music started. “How much of the series have you read and watched?” She asked. “All the books and all the movies.” Sparkler responded. “Sweet!” Twilight said. “Don’t tell Rainbow, but I’ve kinda gotten a little tired of talking with just her about Daring Do. And I haven’t been able to find anyone else at school who likes it as much as me and her.” She revealed. Sparkler chuckled. “My lips are sealed.” She said, no longer nervous. Thank god we can move away from the car. She thought. Canterlot Mall Canterlot City October 5th, 2022 1700hrs Autumn stepped into the ladies room in Airwave’s Airwave, she received an alert from Bella through her earpiece that Night-Mare was calling. Once she confirmed that she was alone in the bathroom and that no one would be able to hear her, she answered the call. “Go.” She said. ““When is it right to turn the frown upside down?” “It’s always the right time to SMILE.” Autumn responded. “What’s the problem?” “I got Lyra and Bon Bon on here in a group call. Girls. We got a problem named FOWL.” Night-Mare said. “FOWL?” Autumn asked. “What’s going on Night-Mare?” Bon Bon asked. “SMILE received intel that FOWL could be plotting an attack at the mall. And given their recent interest in magic. They either plan to nab one of the Spectacular Seven, or maybe even Sparkler.” Night-Mare explained. “What?!” Autumn asked. “But…Sparkler’s on her way right now…does she know about the impending attack?” Lyra asked. “Her AI companion is blocking all SMILE calls tonight, so she has no clue.” Night-Mare responded. “Not surprising.” Bon Bon said. “She probably wants a peaceful night.” “FOWL won’t care.” Lyra said. “Precisely. I’m on my way now, Autumn, it would probably be best to warn Sparkler, but I think we can handle this without her.” Night-Mare explained. “That would be ideal.” Lyra said. “She’s earned a night to herself.” “Exactly.” Night-Mare responded. “Keep sharp girls. SMILE is go.” Autumn nodded as the signal was cut. She pocketed her phone and took a deep breath. “God help us all.” She commented as she walked out of the bathroom. To be continued… > Episode 5: Operation TwiSpark > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Canterlot Mall Canterlot City October 5th, 2022 1725hrs Suffice to say, Sunset was not having a good evening. She had been coerced into helping Sparkler prepare for her first date with Twilight all afternoon, and now she was sitting in the Mall’s food court, hanging with her friends as they spied on Twilight and Sparkler on their date. “Remind me again why I have to be here?” She asked. “Because if the date goes south we can all be here to comfort Twilight immediately.” Rarity said. “I doubt she needs ALL of us.” Sunset countered. “Aww come on Sunny!” Pinkie said. “There’s still a way for you to have Sparkler.” She said cheerfully. “Huh?” Fluttershy asked. “What does she mean Sunset?” She asked. Sunset was about to say nothing, before Pinkie spilled the beans. “Sunset likes Sparkler in the way Sparkler likes Twilight.” She revealed. “Whoa. Seriously?” Rainbow asked. Sunset sighed in defeat, it was not her day today. “Yeah. Seriously. I enjoy our gaming sessions and she’s an overall wonderful girl. It irks me that Twilight caught her eye over me…as happy as I am that Twilight is getting that kind of attention at all.” She explained. “Yeesh.” Rainbow responded, making a sizzling sound. “Rough.” “Yeah.” Sunset responded. “I just feel this pull towards her. I want to find out how she can crystalize, I want us to stream games together, nerd out at conventions together—“ Sunset stopped when she noticed her 5 friends looking at her, smiling slyly. Sunset pouted and crossed her arms. “Whatever. Shoulda came out to her when I had the chance.” She concluded. “Cheer up Sunny!” Pinkie said. “There’s always the possibility of Sparkler not being monogamous!” She said. Before anyone could say anything else, they all heard a familiar voice. “Hey guys. What’s up?” Asked Night-Mare, Twilight’s sister that they hung out with frequently. “Hey Night-Mare.” Sunset said, glad the conversation could change. “What’s up?” She asked. “Not much. Just thought I’d come and spy on Twilight’s and Sparkler’s first date.” Night-Mare said honestly. Oh come on! Sunset inwardly groaned. The subject was still the date. “You might as well join us Night.” Sunset said with an eyeroll. “We’re doing the same.” Night-Mare raised an eyebrow as she took a seat next to Applejack. “Is something wrong?” She asked, she got the sense not everyone was happy at the table. “Eh Sunset’s just irked because she likes Sparkler apparently.” Applejack responded. Night-Mare chuckled. “Really now?” She asked. “Two girls both pining for the same person. Who just happen to be friends themselves. Now where have I seen that before?” She asked jokingly. “Wait, Night-Mare are you saying that Twilight likes Sparkler?” Rarity asked. “It certainly sounds like it.” Night-Mare said. Rarity beamed in excitement. “Perfect! Sparkler and Twilight both like each other. That is the ideal first date scenario!” She squealed. Great. As if Sunset’s night couldn’t get any worse, now she knew her crush and her best friend liked each other, deciding to leave before she did something she would regret, she got out of her seat. “And with that little piece of information I think I’ll walk around the mall…maybe on the opposite side of it.” She said. “Text me if the date goes south.” She said before leaving. “But Sunny! You’ll miss spying on—“ Pinkie started, before Fluttershy gave her a glare that said ‘don’t provoke her.’ “Sorry we dragged you along Sunset. You can go home if you want.” Fluttershy said. “Nah I’ll stick around. Just don’t want to see them being all lovey dovey and risk doing something I’ll regret.” Sunset responded before walking off. Pinkie deflated as she watched Sunset go. “Aww. But Sunset has a chance tonight to get what she wants. Sparkler could very well be ok with having two lovers.” She said sadly. “Darling…it’s a bit more complex than that.” Rarity said. “Maybe she just needs some time.” Applejack nodded, before she caught a glimpse of Sparklr and Twilight coming up the escalator and stepping into the food court. “Speaking of time, it’s time Y’all.” She said. Everypony at the table saw Sparkler and Twilight, and quickly looked away to not give off the impression that they were spying on them. Rarity was giddy. “Here we go.” She whispered. Night-Mare nodded. Operation TwiSpark is go. She thought. At Airwave’s Airwave, Flash Sentry, who was another part timer going to Canterlot High, was at the front playing the host when he saw his friends Sparkler and Twilight enter. He smiled. “Hey there Sparkler, Twilight, tonight’s the night?” He asked, referring to their date, which wasn’t a secret. Twilight blushed while Sparkler nodded. “Yeah. Reservation should be under Medley.” She told Flash. Flash glanced down at his guestbook until he saw Sparkler’s name in it. “Yes it is. Medley, table for two at 5:30.” He said as he picked out two menus from the podium. “Right this way.” He said as he led the two to their table. In another part of the restaurant, Bonbon was sitting at a table with Lyra has her server. They both saw the happy soon-to-be? couple enter. “They look sharp.” Lyra commented. “Yeah. Shame FOWL is likely to make a move any moment now.” Bonbon responded with a double face palm. “The flip side to that though is that if FOWL makes an appearance and Sparkler has to get involved, whoever FOWL sends might as well just admit themselves to a hospital.” She added, knowing full well that Sparkler would probably send some bad guys to the hospital should they ruin her date. Heavens knew Bonbon would if her date with Lyra were interrupted. As they watched their friends sit down, Bonbon tapped her concealed earpiece. “Flappy. This is Bonbon, do you copy?” She asked. “I read you Bonbon. What’s up?” Flappy asked. “Have you heard the chatter about a possible FOWL attack at the mall tonight?” Bonbon asked. “I have. I’ve gained access to the mall’s security cameras and will raise the alarm at the first sight of suspected FOWL collaborators.” Flappy responded. “Have you warned Sparkler yet?” Bonbon asked. “She ordered me not to talk to her about SMILE stuff tonight.” Flappy responded. “Flappy, she has to know.” Bonbon said. “Someone else will have to get a message to her then because she’s probably already mad at me for pretending to be just a car radio AI in front of Twilight tonight.” Flappy responded. “No worries guys.” Autumn cut in. “I got this, just make sure her ultraviolet lenses are working Flappy.” She said. The connection cut as Autumn walked over to Twilight’s and Sparkker’s table, wearing her best customer service smile. “Hey there guys.” She said cheerfully. “Finally that night eh?” She asked. Twilight and Sparkler glanced at Autumn and smiled. “Hey there Autumn.” Twilight said. “Yeah. Tonight’s the night.” Sparkler said. “Great. I’ll be your waitress this evening.” She said as she whipped out her notebook and pen. “May I start the two of you off with something to drink?” She asked. Out in another part of the mall, Sunset was leaning against a wall, messaging Princess Twilight from her own world, but her mind kept going back to the food court, knowing that this world’s Sparkler and Twilight were having a fun date presumably. “Figures my best friend would fall for the girl I like who likes my best friend. Gah. Shoulda seen it coming in retrospect. Just look at Pony Sparkler and Pony Twilight.” She commented idly to herself when something caught her eye off her peripheral vision. She looked up and noticed a group of dark dressed people walking, heading towards the food court. Sunset frowned, getting the sense something was up. She quickly wrote a goodbye to Pony Twilight and put her journal away, deciding to sneakily follow the group. “Here you two are. A nice glass of lemonade and a glass of Iced Tea.” Autumn said as she placed Sparkler’s and Twilight’s drinks on their table. “Have you two decided on menu options?” She asked. “We’ll have the Starswirl Salad please.” Sparkler said. “Alright, two StarSwirl Salads coming right up.” Autumn responded as she wrote down their orders and left them to it. Sparkler smiled as she went to unwrap her straw for her drink, before she saw something that she could clearly tell was written with invisible ink. It was a message her glasses could read. “Heads up, FOWL agents might make an appearance. Don’t worry. Night-Mare, Bonbon, Lyra and I will handle them.” FOWL?! Oh for the love of, The whole lot of them can just trot off! At that moment, Sparkler was glad she was a great actress, because she didn’t give off any indications of her annoyance as she unwrapped the straw. If they attack, and I need to get involved, bones will be broken. She thought. Twilight meanwhile took a sip of her iced tea and let out a satisfied hum. “Mmm. Tasty Iced Tea.” She commented. “Airwave takes pride in providing quality food and drink.” Sparkler responded. “He really cares about all the work he does.” She said. “I can see why you’re a fan of him.” Twilight responded. “Myself, I’m more a fan of StarSwirl the bearded. He’s the greatest guitar player to ever live.” She said. Sparkler chuckled. “I’m glad you agree with that fact. StarSwirl was my main source of material when I was learning how to play guitar.” She said. “Might have to listen to you play sometime. See if you learned well from his work.” Twilight said. Oh you’ll definitely hear me play soon. Sparkler thought. She went to say something, before she was cut off by a clearly loud and rude “ahem” followed by a not entirely light jab on the shoulder. “Excuse me, Sparkler, honey, might I trouble you on your break for a moment?” Asked a woman’s voice. No, no no no no no no not now! Anything but FOWL and this! Sparkler inwardly cried out. She knew the tone all too well. It was a tone that only belonged to the most hated and dreaded breed of patron ever to set food in a restaurant of any kind. A Crazer! Sparkler took a few seconds to compose herself, temporarily engage her customer service mode, and after a rather impatient second ahem. She turned in her seat to see a lady looking over at her. “Is there something wrong?” She asked. “It’s nothing too bad.” The Crazer responded. “It’s just our food is taking forever to arrive and I was wondering if you would take a moment to ask about it’s progress?” She asked. Sparkler was trying her hardest to not tell the woman to shove off as she tried explaining. “Sorry ma’am, not on the clock right now, I’m sure one of the on-duty—“ “But you’re already here. Surely you can spare 30 seconds of your break to help a customer.” The Crazer interrupted Sparkler. “This is actually my night off. So I can’t actually help—“ “If you’re not working tonight then why are you even here?” The Crazer cut Sparkler off again, as rudely as before. “Uh, she’s a patron here just like you. Having—“ Twilight began, trying to help when the Crazer cut her off rudely too. “I don’t remember asking you. Stay out of it you brat.” The Crazer said. To which Twilight shut her mouth and let out a small eep, which really set Sparkler off. Ok NOW you’ve done it! It took everything Sparkler had not to deck the lady right then and there. Her response was formulated and spoken in record time. “I’m sorry ma’am, but I am off the clock and cannot help you. I’m sure a UNIFORMED member of the wait staff would be happy to help you out. Otherwise, have a good night and leave me and my date out of it!” She semi growled at the crazer, while Twilight blushed at being called Sparkler’s date. The crazer was going to throw back a retort before she saw the look Sparkler was giving her. It was a nasty look that told her to be quiet. With a very arrogant hmph. The Crazer turned back in her seat and Sparkler did the same. “God I hate those kinds of people.” She commented under her breath. “Sorry bout that Twi.” She said. “You handled that well.” Twilight observed. “You don’t work in the fast food industry unless you’re prepared to deal with crap.” Sparkler responded. “I wouldn’t call it FAST food.” They heard the Crazer comment. Sparkler took a deep breath to calm herself down and ignored the Crazer. “So other than Daring Do, got any other fandoms you enjoy?” She asked Twilight, letting her know she wanted to change topics. Meanwhile, outside the restaurant, Night-Mare and the spectacular 7 were looking on intently. “Ooh they are so adorable together!” Rarity excitedly whispered. “I would comment on how cheap Sparkler is by taking Twilight to a restaurant she works at and thus probably gets an employee discount. But I also know Twilight wouldn’t care about that.” Night-Mare commented. “I’m sure they’ll go to other restaurants.” Fluttershy said. “Twilight’s favorite restaurant isn’t in the mall after all.” “And she probably doesn’t know so I’ll let this one slide.” Night-Mare responded. Before her earpiece blazed. “Warning, suspected FOWL collaborators on approach.” Flappy warned Night-Mare, Lyra, Bonbon and Autumn. Night-Mare tensed up a tad as she started glancing around, and saw the group of very clearly FOWL agents step into the food court from the escalator. How was it clear? The FOWL patch on the shoulder pads, and there were also a lot of them. 18 FOWL agents…aww crud. She thought. They might actually need Sparkler’s help. “Night-Mare? Whatcha looking at?” Rainbow asked. Night-Mare whirled her head around to see Rainbow had noticed her looking. Night-Mare hurriedly came up with a fib. “Oh just noticed a group of people wearing the same jacket. Not everyday you see that.” She said. Crud. Gotta find a way to slip away. She thought. Realizing an important factor. Keeping her secret identity. Meanwhile, Sunset raced onto the escalator and up it. Crud! They’re gonna grab Sparkler! She thought. While following the group, Sunset got a mind blip from all of them at once. And suffice to say, she hated it with every fiber of her being. She saw who the people were, who they were affiliated with, and what they were doing at the Mall. Gotta keep them busy until SMILE help arrives. Quickly coming up with a plan, Sunset stepped into the food court and sprang into action. The group of FOWL agents stopped in their tracks, and all turned to see Sunset singing and dancing. When she gestured for them to come closer, away from the restaurant, they actually did. Night-Mare, as well as everyone else at the table, watched on in total shock. “Whoa.” Rainbow said. “What the heck’s up with Sunset?” Meanwhile, Night-Mare’s mind was racing. Ok, SOMETHING is going on with Sunset. This is totally a distraction intended for the group. Her mind ran through scenarios as she discreetly tapped her earpiece to call for SMILE reinforcements. If Sunset can keep these idiots busy for a few minutes, In the restaurant while Autumn, Bonbon and Lyra saw what the frack was happening, Twilight and Sparkler were still blissfully unaware that their date came close to being ruined. They continued to talk for a moment, before Twilight felt the urge to go use the lady’s room. “Ahem, um, excuse me for a moment. Need to go.” She said as she got up and walked towards the back restrooms. With Twilight gone, Sparkler took the chance to look around for FOWL scumbags, and saw Sunset distracting a big group of them outside. She raised an eyebrow. What the frack is she doing? She thought. “Excuse me miss.” Sparkler heard a guy say from behind her. She turned and saw two hulking guys, with FOWL jackets on. Sparkler sighed as she facepalmed. “We’re really doing this now.” She commented. “Shall I do what I can to delay Ms Sparkle until FOWL is out of the way?” Flappy asked her. “Might as well.” Sparkler responded as she got out of her seat. Outside in the food court, Sunset was still distracting the FOWL agents with her performance. Hopefully Sparkler called for backup. She thought. Right then, they all heard a very loud whistling, which stopped everything, even the distraction performance. Followed by a clearly ticked off “Over here idiots.” Everyone, FOWL, spectacular 7, minus Twilight, and Night-Mare turned to see Sparkler, Autumn, Bonbon and Lyra, and they held two FOWL agents arms twisted behind their backs, and everyone could see that Sparkler was less than pleased. “So you bunch of pinbrains thought you’d kidnap me on my date. Well, unfortunately for you, I’ve already had to deal with a crazer demanding I work on my day off so I have half a mind to put the lot of you in the hospital.” Sparkler said as she and her friends shoved the FOWL agents they were restraining forward towards the group. “Instead, I’m gonna start counting down, and you have five seconds to either split, or start making reservations for Airwave’s Airwave. Five.” The Fowl Agents all looked at the unamused look scowl on Sparkker’s face. “Four.” Night-Mare and everyone were all staring at Sparkler, unbelieving of what was happening. And Night-Mare was curious as to what the FOWL agents were gonna do. “Three.” The FOWL Agents started getting nervous as they started slowly backing away, getting the sense Sparkler was not kidding around. “Two.” And just like that, the FOWL agents all turned on their high heels and ran, deciding NOT to be on the receiving end of an irritated teenager on a date. While her friends, except for Lyra Bonbon and Autumn, stared at Sparkler in shock, Sparkler nodded. “Now, unless there’s anything else, I have somewhere to be.” She said before she turned and walked back into the restaurant. Autumn and Lyra following suit. Sunset smirked Sparkker’s way as she walked back to her friends’ table. After a moment, Fluttershy broke the silence. “Uh, what the heck just happened?” She asked. “Yeah.” Pinkie said. “I’m completely lost.” Sunsrt rolled her eyes and smiled. “Those guys wanted to kidnap Sparkler. They seem to be scared of her though.” She said. “Mind read them.” She explained. “Ok. That explains YOUR little performance…I think.” Rarity said. “But that doesn’t explain Sparkler, Lyra, Bonbon and Autumn.” She said. “Yeah…and Night-Mare, you seemed rather tense all of a sudden when that group arrived.” Rainbow said. “Like you knew they were coming, and were scared.” She observed. All eyes turned to Night-Mare, who silently gulped. “Uh…” She trailed off. Crap! And I haven’t been issued forget me gas yet! Night-Mare realized how much she was cornered and thoroughly lacking options. And glanced at Bonbon, who had moved to stand in the table area so she wasn’t so out of the way. She could see Bonbon was also nervous as all heck. Back at Airwave’s Airwave, Autumn and Lyra got back to work, while Sparkler sat back down at her table. Luckily, she managed to not only keep damage from happening, but also managed to NOT end up looking like she had a scuffle as she noticed Twilight come back out…and it was clear she had a mishap with the hand dryer as her hair was slightly out of place. “Sorry Sparkler.” Flappy whispered into her earpiece. “The dryer was the only thing I could hack. And I know girls didn’t like messy hair.” Sparkle paid it no mind as Twilight sat back down. “Ok, back. Sorry it took a bit Sparkler.” She said. “Hand dryer went haywire for some reason.” She explained. “Huh. That’s weird.” Sparkler responded as the date continued like nothing ever happened. And as far as Sparkler was concerned, nothing DID happen. To be continued… > Episode 6: Gotta Find You > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 45 Main Street avenue Heart of Canterlot City October 5th 2022 1930hrs “Alright, we’re alone like y’all wanted.” Applejack told Autumn, Lyra, and Bonbon. “So, mind explaining what happened with you three at the mall?” Rainbow asked. Autumn, Bonbon, and Lyra all glanced at each other. They were all dreading this talk. It took all of a minute for the Spectacular 7 to deduce that their five friends outside their own group were more than meets the eye. So, while Night-Mare couldn’t stick around and had to get home, the rest agreed to have a talk in Autumn’s apartment. A talk that none of the SMILE agents wanted to have and would much rather use Forget Ma gas. But since Sparkler was still test driving the new technology and it wasn’t deployed in mass yet…here they were. Sunset meanwhile had her mind racing. Unlike her friends, she deduced exactly who Autumn, Bonbon, Lyra, and Night-Mare were. Agents of SMILE. I hope it doesn’t come to me. Pinkie promised Sparkler I wouldn’t say anything. She thought. Finally, Autumn broke the silence. “Before we say anything, you all need to Pinkie promise that you won’t breathe a word of this to anyone outside this room…except for Night-Mare and Sparkler.” She told them. Canterlot Park Canterlot City October 5th, 2022 1930hrs After dinner at Airwave’s Airwave, Twilight and Sparkler were now walking down a path in Canterlot Park, unbeknownst to Twilight, Sparkler was leading her directly to a bench Rarity texted her where her guitar was. Hopefully no one stole it. Sparkler thought. Normally she would not have done it, but it woulda looked weird if Sparkler had carried the guitar herself, and she chipped her guitar with the most advanced tracking chip SMILE had, so she felt comfortable risking her guitar for one night. Twilight meanwhile was basking in this moment, none the wiser about what happened at the Mall. As far as she was concerned, she was walking with her date in the park under the clear starry night. She admittedly didn’t know much about romance, but from what information she had, this could certainly be counted as romantic. “This was a great idea you had Sparkler.” She commented. “A moonlight walk in the park after a nice dinner. You got this romance thing down don’t you.” She said. Sparkler giggled. “I had a few pointers from Rarity. Never been on a date before tonight.” She admitted. “There wasn’t anyone at your old school that was crushing on you?” Twilight asked. “Two of my friends from my old school I know for a fact had crushes on me. But the problem was they were boys and I don’t swing that way.” Sparkler said, smiling as she thought of Bradford and Mark. She casually wondered what the old crew was up to back in KiliHima Town. “Did they know you swung towards girls?” Twilight asked. “Yep. But you know boys. Sometimes they think they can win over a girl’s heart even if already told no.” Sparkler joked, to which Twilight laughed. “Well were there any girls that crushed on you?” Twilight asked. “I think that if I had stayed in town any longer, one of my other friends, a major car nut, might have developed a crush on me just so she can get as much car time as possible.” Sparkler responded, chuckling along with Twilight. “I could tell she was jealous when she saw I had the Sparkmobile.” She commented. “Your friends from your old school sound interesting.” Twilight said. “Remind me to introduce you to them when/if they ever come to town. I think you’d like them.” Sparkler said. “I’ll be sure to do that.” Twilight responded. The girls fell into a silence as they continued their walk. Twilight glanced up into the night sky after a few minutes. “Hey Sparkler? Ever been stargazing before?” She asked. Sparkler glanced at Twilight, and glanced up at the sky with her. “My old friends and I did do a little stargazing sometimes as a fun group activity. We’d play a game where we’d see how many constellations each of us can guess right.” She said, reminiscing about the good times she had with her old friends…Oh crud now she was getting a little homesick. “Sounds fun. I wonder how we’d stack against each other in such a contest.” Twilight mused. “Only one way to find out. Shame we don’t have a telescope on us right now.” Sparkler said. “That could be our second date.” Twilight suggested, before she realized what she just said and made a cute little eep while blushing and glancing away from Sparkler. Sparkler stopped dead in her tracks. Second date? She wants a second date? Sparkler blushed while she glanced at Twilight. “S-Second date?” She asked. Twilight blushed hard and smiled sheepishly. She did not mean for that to come out loud. She had intended it to be in her mind only. “Uhm…yeah.” She responded, barely loud enough for Sparkler to hear. Sparkler didn’t know how she managed to NOT squeal joyfully at the fact Twilight wanted this thing to continue. She noticed they were approaching the bench that Rarity told her had her guitar under it, and sure enough, she could see the guitar still under it. This seems like the perfect time to let her hear me play. She thought. “Hey Twi?” She asked. “You said you wanted to hear me play guitar?” Twilight, still blushing and smiling sheepishly from her admission of her desires for a second date, could only nod. Sparkler smiled in response and took her hand in her own to guide her to sitting on the bench. God she’s so adorable. Sparkler thought as she sat next to Twilight and pulled her guitar out from under the bench. Twilight finally saw the guitar and couldn’t help but giggle. “Oh, I see. You led us directly to this specific bench because your guitar was already here.” She said. “Am I going to hear a Sparkler original song?” She asked, deducing what was going on. “Yeah, and yeah…you’re actually the one that inspired it.” Sparkler admitted with a blush as she started strumming. Twilight’s blush became even more noticeable. I inspired her? Is it…is it actually possible that she likes me back? Twilight asked in her mind. She had feared that maybe Sparkler didn’t return her feelings and this was just a friend date or something…but now it was becoming increasingly likely that Sparkler actually like liked her. She was brought out of her thoughts when Sparkler started to sing. 🎵Every time I think I'm closer to the heart Of what it means to know just who I am I think I've finally found a better place to start But no one ever seems to understand I need to try to get to where you are Could it be you're not that far? You're the voice I hear inside my head The reason that I'm singing I need to find you I gotta find you You're the missing piece I need The song inside of me I need to find you I gotta find you Oh yeah Yeah, yeah You're the remedy I'm searching hard to find To face the puzzle that I see inside painting all my dreams, the color of your smile When I find you it will be alright I need to try to get to where you are Could it be you're not that far? You're the voice I hear inside my head The reason that I'm singing I need to find you I gotta find you You're the missing piece I need The song inside of me I need to find you I gotta find you Been feeling lost Can't find the words to say Spending all my time stuck in yesterday Where you are is where I want to be Oh, next to you and you next to me Oh, I need to find you Yeah You're the voice I hear inside my head The reason that I'm singing I need to find you (I need to find you) I gotta find you Yeah, yeah You're the missing piece I need The song inside of me I need to find you I gotta find you (I gotta find you) You're the voice I hear inside my head The reason that I'm singing I need to find you (I need to find you) I gotta find you (I gotta find you) You're the missing piece I need The song inside of me I need to find you I gotta find you Yeah, yeah I gotta find you🎵 Twilight was smiling widely as she listened to Sparkler singing, her head swaying to the beat a little. Sparkler’s voice was that of a literal GODDESS to her. Holy skit show! I’m glad I never got around to watching that video of her on Haytube now—wait why is her necklace glowing? Her attention was momentarily taken by the fact that Sparkker’s necklace was glowing, about halfway through the song, and a few seconds later, Sparkler herself started to glow. Twilight watched in awe as Sparkler’s appearance changed. She crystalized, and ponied up. While Sparkler didn’t notice and kept on playing and singing, Twilight was captive to the sight before her. She had indeed been given a description of Sparkler’s pony up and crystallization from her friends…but now she knew that description wasn’t enough. The sight before her was unlike anything she had ever seen before. Oh my god she might literally be a goddess! Was one of her first thoughts. The song continued for another few moments before it came to an end. Sparkler sang the last word and strummed the last note. She opened her eyes to see Twilight staring at her in awe. After a few seconds, she broke the silence that had befallen them. “Like what you heard?” She asked. That snapped Twilight out of her awe and she smiled widely. “That was AMAZING! And oh my god you look…I can’t even describe it!” She said. “I heard you could Crystalize and pony up but WOW.” She said. Sparkler blinked, and glanced at herself, she saw that she had crystallized, and more importantly, she saw that she had wings and pony ears, and her hair lengthened. “Huh. Look at that. Guess I did get an upgrade when I moved here.” She commented. She hadn’t crystalized since that one time in the mall so she had wondered if her pony up was permanent. Guess it was. Twilight blinked. “Huh?” She asked, confused. Sparkler chuckled nervously. “Right, I owe and explanation don’t I.” She said. “I don’t know how much your friends told you but I Crystalize whenever I feel perfectly in sync with the beat of the song. Not sure why it happens or how I CAN do it…but for whatever reason…I can. As for ponying up…yeah this is only the second time it’s happened since I moved here. And coincidentally this is also the second time I’ve crystalized since I moved here.” Sparkler explained. “Sunset and I have been trying to figure it out but so far we’ve come up with nothing.” She said. “I think we may have found a clue.” Twilight said. “But we can talk about that later, right now, that was a beautiful song.” She said. Sparkler smiled and blushed. “Thanks.” She said. “Y-your not the only one who wants a second date.” She admitted. Time for the confession. “You’ve been a good friend to me since we met and I enjoy whenever we get to hang out together…but the last few weeks I’ve come to realize that I started to long for the times we got together. I always hope we’re partnered up for group projects, would also hope you’re there whenever Autumn and I get together with her cousin’s friend group…long story short…as the song suggests, I want you to be a part of my life beyond mere friendship.” Sparkler said. “So…what do you think?” She asked. More nervous than ever. Twilight nearly lunged forward and pulled Sparkler into a hug, she couldn’t believe she actually did like her! After a few seconds of blushing, and trying to get words out, she answered. “It seems like our individual feelings for each other are mutual after all.” She said. Sparkler blinked in surprise. Did Twilight just… “Twilight? Are you saying…” she asked, to which Twilight nodded. “When I first heard of you, I was immediately drawn to you because of the whole crystallization and pony up thing. We didn’t know we weren’t the only ones with magical abilities. And we only got ours last year.” Twilight said. “Things became even more interesting when I started detecting crazy readings from your car.” She explained. “But while I love the mystery surrounding you. I’m drawn to you in other ways as well. You’re smart, kind. I just…I have this desire for us to be a part of each other’s lives in a more intimate relationship than mere friendship…I’m not sure if that’s love or what…but whatever it is, I want to find out, and I want it to be long-term.” She confessed. Sparkler listened, and she felt her eyes glisten and she smiled. “So, wanna be a thing with me?” She asked. Twilight smiled as she reached out and took Sparkler’s hands in her own. “Yes. I’d like that very much.” She said. Well this is the best night of my life. Sparkler thought to herself as she and Twilight fell into a loving hug. Twilight had a tad bit of difficulty since Sparkler’s wings were in the way, but she managed. In that moment, she didn’t care about anything but the fact that she now had a girlfriend. “You know you haven’t reverted back to your normal form.” She commented. “Yeah it goes away when it wants to.” Sparkler responded with a chuckle. “Would you judge me if I said I don’t want it to go away?” Twilight asked. “It’s so majestic.” Sparkler chuckled. “So are you.” She said. SMILE HQ Canterlot City October 5th 2022 1945hrs Director Derrick was in his office at SMILE HQ when his strange device started beeping. He took it out of its secret compartment and tapped it. “Go.” “We just detected her powering up again. Looks like the wings and pony ears were a permanent addition.” Said a female voice. “I was wondering if the magic in this town reacted to her. You gonna reach out to her?” Derrick asked. “No, not yet anyway. It’s not the time.” “You’ve been saying that for two years. When WILL it be the time?” Derrick asked. “It will be the time when it’s the time. And now is not the time.” Derrick groaned. “She’s not an idiot. Sooner or later, she’s going to find out, if not from you than definitely from her looking into her abilities. Especially now that she’s got some smart friends who know more about the magic around here than she does.” He said. “Derrick, you agreed to keep her in the dark.” “I know. I’m just saying that there’s a right way to do it and your time is running out.” Derrick said. With that, the connection was cut. Derrick shook his head as he put the device back in its compartment. “I give it a year, maximum.” He commented as he got back to work. To be continued… > Episode 7: The Circle Grows > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sparkle Residence Outskirts of Canterlot City October 5th, 2022 2030hrs “Hey Sparkler? Could you pull up our driveway towards my lab?” Twilight asked her new girlfriend as Sparkler turned onto Twilight’s street address, Sparkler driving Twilight home after their date. “May I ask why?” Sparkler asked in response. “Because in the park, a few seconds before you crystalized, I noticed your necklace glowing. I uh…was wondering if you’d stick around for a few moments so I can get a detailed scan of the necklace.” Twilight asked. Sparkler laughed as she pulled into the Sparkle driveway…past the house and up to the smaller building behind the house. “Sure Twi. I’ll let you scan the necklace.” She said. Twilight beamed in delight. “Great. Uh, mind if we hurry inside? I’d rather get inside the lab before my siblings notice I’m home.” She said as Sparkler parked the car and they got out. Sparkler giggled as no sooner had she closed the car door had Twilight grabbed her hand and pulled her into her lab. “Whoa. Hey there. What’s the rush Sparkle?” Sparkler asked. As she was pulled into the lab and Twilight locked the door. “What’s wrong with your siblings knowing your home?” She asked. “S-sorry.” Twilight responded as she finished locking the door and turned on the light. “Guess I’m just not ready for my family to meet you yet. Hehehe.” Twilight chuckled nervously. Sparkler couldn’t help but chuckle in response. “Oh?” She asked as she crossed her arms. “Wait is THAT why you always insist we work on homework or projects anywhere but here?” She asked in realization. Twilight couldn’t stop blushing as she smiled sheepishly. “I…it’s just…” she stammered. “I don’t want them to hound you. I’ve heard meet-the-family scenarios can be pretty intense on the SO that’s meeting the family…” She explained. “Well if it makes you feel better Twilight, I for one won’t hound her.” Said a voice that spooked Sparkler and Twilight. Twilight looked in the direction the voice came from and her eyes widened when she saw. “CADENCE?!” She shrieked. “Yeah.” Cadence responded. “I had a feeling you’d try to sneak in here, with your date in tow.” She admitted. Twilight was a stammering mess at this point. “I…bu…how…” She was struggling to get a single word out through her blushing, shock, and horror. Sparkler saw her new girlfriend about to break down and jumped to the rescue. She pulled Twilight into a comforting hug. “Twilight, breathe, just relax.” She cooed. Somehow, Twilight heard Sparkker’s words, and took deep breaths until she had calmed down. She relaxed into Sparkker’s embrace. “O-ok…I think I’m good now.” She said. Sparkler smiled as she let Twilight pull away from her. Twilight meanwhile turned directly to Cadence. “What are you doing in here and WHY?!” She asked, still blushing. “I knew you’d try to sneak in here after your date. And I wanted to hear how it went.” Cadence responded. “I take it you’re Sparkling Medley?” She asked Sparkler. “I am.” Sparkler responded as she held out her hand for Cadence to shake, which she did. “And who might you be?” “You can call me Cadence. Twilight’s sister-in-law.” Cadence responded as she shook Sparkker’s hand. “Ahem! I’ll be sure to tell you about the date Cadence.” Twilight said as she unlocked the door and opened it. “AFTER I finish what I wanted to do in here with Sparkler.” She added. “Now if you would please go back into the house so Sparkler and I can work in peace.” She told Cadence. Cadence laughed as she decided to just do what Twilight wanted, walking out of the lab. “Can’t hide her forever Twilight. Sooner or later you’ll have to bring her over. Nice meeting you Sparkler.” Cadence said as she left. “Likewise Cadence.” Sparkler responded as Twilight shut the door again and locked it. “Ok let’s get this done and you out of here before my brother or other sister decide to come out.” Twilight said as she quickly grabbed her handheld scanner. “Cadence has a point Twi.” Sparkler responded. “Sooner or later I’m going to meet your family.” “I know.” Twilight said as she pointed the scanner at Sparkker’s necklace. “I’m just not ready yet.” “What’s the worst your family could do?” Sparkler asked. “I mean it’s not like I’m anymore dangerous than say…that camp Everfree villain Sunsrt told me about.” Sparkler said. Twilight was about to respond, before her scanner started blaring like a Christmas tree. “Whoa!” She exclaimed in shock as she glanced at the screen. Sparkler raised an eyebrow as she moved beside Twilight and glanced at the screen on the scanner. “Wow.” She said. The screen was going nuts with seismic lines. “This is on par with the insane readings I got from your car.” Twilight said as she plugged the scanner into her computer. “Think there’s a connection?” Sparkler asked. “Maybe.” Twilight said. “Where did you even get that necklace?” She asked. “Along with my ring.” Sparkler held up her hand with the ring on it to show Twilight. “It was the only thing my parents found with me when they found me on their doorstep in 2005 as a baby.” She said. Twilight stopped and glanced away from her computer. “Oh…” She said. “You…” “Are adopted. Yes.” Sparkler said. “No note, no address, nothing but little me in a basket with my name engraved on it, and the ring and necklace in my grasp.” She explained.  Twilight bit her lip. Now unsure if she should ask her next question or not. After a moment, she made up her mind. Another time, when she trusts me more. She thought. She decided to change the subject, sensing it was a sensitive topic for Sparkler. “Well, thanks for letting me take a look at the necklace Sparkler. And…thanks for tonight. I really liked it.” She said. “Yeah. Me too. I’m looking forward to the next one.” Sparkler said. Twilight nodded, and blushed, she wanted to do something else…but something held her back from bringing it up. Sparkler could tell she wanted something, she cocked her head to the side. “What’s up Twi?” She asked. “Well…” Twilight smiled sheepishly, embarrassed. “I uh…heard it was customary for two lovers to…when one leaves for a time they…” Darn it why couldn’t she say it. Sparkler was at first confused as to what Twilight wanted, but after a moment, she got it. “Oh. You want a goodbye kiss.” She said, smirking. Twilight nodded in response. Sparkler smiled genuinely and took Twilight’s hands on her own. “I was hoping you’d want to do that.” She said. Twilight beamed as they both leaned in slowly, their eyes drifted closed as their lips made contact in the middle. It was amazing, like fireworks went off as the two shared their first kiss. Twilight tilted her head to the side to deepen the kiss, which elicited a happy moan from Sparkler. After a few seconds, which felt like an eternity, Sparkler and Twilight pulled back from their kiss. Their eyes fluttered open and they both saw the other smiling. “That was…” Twilight trailed off whispering, her mind failing to come up with the right word. “Magical?” Sparkler offered. “Yeah. It was.” Twilight just smiled as she pulled Sparkler into a hug. “I would ask if you wanted to hang out tomorrow but I know you have to go to work.” She said. “Yeah. But hey. We get to spend every afternoon together at school.” Sparkler responded. “I’m glad.” Twilight said. “So…see you Monday?” She asked. “Can pick you up for school if you need me to.” Sparkler offered. “I’d like that.” Twilight responded. “It maximizes our together time.” She said. “Exactly.” Sparkler responded. She pecked Twilight on the cheek one more time. “I’ll call later.” She said. Twilight smiled as she walked over to the door and unlocked it for Sparkler. “Can’t wait.” She said. With the door open, Sparkler hugged Twilight goodbye one more time before walking to her car, climbing in, and closing the door. She started it up and started backing out of the driveway to go home. “Alright, we’re clear.” She said. “Good. I have about 10 messages from Director Derrick. All related to FOWL being at the mall tonight.” Flappy said, glad to finally be unrestricted. “Ugh. I guess I shoulda been more specific when I told you not to talk.” Sparkler responded. “Speaking of, FM Lengthy Audio Player Presence? Really?” She asked. “Was trying to help you explain the bizarre readings Ms. Sparkle was getting from the Sparkmobile…or should I say the future MRS. Sparkle?” Flappy asked jokingly. “No, don’t even start with that. We aren’t even an HOUR into this relationship yet.” Sparkler responded. “Sparkler, don’t deny that you want it to happen eventually.” Flappy told her. “I saw the doodles in your journal.” Sparkler sighed. “I’m not denying it. I’m just keeping my expectations grounded.” She said. Flappy was about to say something, before a call started coming in. “Incoming call…from Airwave.” He announced. “Probably wants to know what happened at the mall. Put him through.” Sparkler responded. Flappy connected the call, and Sparkler smiled. “Evening Mr. Airwave.” She said. “Hey Sparkler. How’s it going?” Said the male voice of her boss. “Pretty good all things considered.” Sparkler responded. “That’s good. I tried calling Lyra and Autumn but neither of them are answering their phones. Maybe you can tell me what I saw on the security cameras at the restaurant?” Airwave asked. “FOWL agents tried to kidnap me.” Sparkler responded. “On my date no less.” “Ouch. Are you OK?” Airwave asked. “Yeah. And don’t worry Airwave, we managed to end it before the restaurant was trashed.” She assured him. “That’s good. Not that I would’ve been mad. I understand SMILE can’t guarantee no collateral damage.” Airwave responded. Sparkler nodded. “But you can always count on SMILE taking care of the situation.” She said. Apparently, in addition to contacting Celestia, Derrick also saw fit to contact Airwave to let HIM know that Sparkler, Autumn, and Lyra may need to be called away from work, to which Airwave was completely understanding. “Good to hear.” Airwave responded. “So. How’d it go?” He asked, switching gears to the date. Sparkler chuckled. “I’d say it’s gonna happen again. A lot more often.” She said. “Nice.” Airwave said. “I wish you nothing but the best.” “Thanks Airwave.” Sparkler responded. “See you tomorrow?” Airwave asked. “Yeah. Have a good night.” Sparkler said. “You too. Stay smooth.” Airwave responded. With that, the connection was cut…but right after, the phone started ringing again. “Incoming call from Derrick.” Flappy said. “And now I get yelled at for ghosting SMILE. Put him through.” Sparkler responded. Flappy connected the call, and Derrick’s voice came through. “Agent Medley.” He said. “Director Derrick.” Sparkler responded. “Look, I’m sorry for ghosting SMILE tonight—“ “Oh I’m well aware of why you did it. And while you have earned a night off to go on a date. At the very least let Flappy warn you of potential threats nearby next time.” Derrick said. “We can’t have agents caught with their pants down.” “Understood.” Sparkler responded. “There’s another matter we need to discuss. Your cover to the Spectacular 7 is blown.” Derrick announced. Sparkler raised an eyebrow. “Sorry?” She asked, confused. “Autumn, Lyra, and Bonbon are being interrogated by the Spectacular 7, and they don’t have your Forget Me Gas.” Derrick said. “So you want me to use it?” Sparkler asked. “On one hand, I want to say yes. But on the other hand, if you’re going to be working with them to discover where your Crystallization power comes from, you just need to make sure you trust them completely.” Derrick advised her. “I know how important that is to you knowing where your power comes from.” “So it’s up to me basically.” Sparkler responded. “If you trust them to keep the secret, I’ll trust your judgment.” Derrick responded. “I do trust them.” Sparkler responded. “But Twilight doesn’t know and I would rather KEEP it that way.” “Again, that’s up to you. Trust is the key factor here.” Derrick responded. “Have a good night Sparkler.” He said before cutting the connection. Sparkler took a deep breath. “Flappy, where are the spectacular 7?” She asked. “At yours and Autumn’s apartment.” Flappy responded. “Good.” Sparkler said.  Not too much later, Sparkler pulled into the parking lot of the apartment building, next to Sunset’s motorcycle. She shutdown the engine and got out. She walked in and up the stairs until she landed on their floor. She walked towards the door…and actually hesitated opening it. The sooner you open the door the sooner you get this over with. She thought as she took a deep breath, and finally opened the door. “I’m home!” She called in. She walked into the apartment, and as she predicted, Autumn, Bonbon, Lyra, Sunset, Rainbow, Applejack, Rarity, Pinkie and Fluttershy were all in the living room area. Pinkie was the first to notice Sparkler come and she smiled widely. “Sparkler!” She said as she bounced up onto her feet. “You’re back!” That alerted everyone else to Sparkker’s return and all eyes were on her in less than a second. “Well if it isn’t secret agent Sparkler.” Rainbow said, smirking. “How’s it going Sparks?” Autumn asked. “Rest of the date go alright?” “Yes! Tell us how it went darling!” Rarity said, eager to hear what happened. Sparkler couldn’t help but chuckle as she walked into the living room area. “So, I take it all of you know?” She asked. “Autumn, Bonbon, and Lyra told us.” Fluttershy said. “We uh…kinda made them.” Sparkler nodded. “Well, now that you know. There are two paths ahead, which path are you guys going to choose?” She asked. “We already Pinkie promised yer spy friends that we’ll keep it to ourselves.” Applejack said. “Don’t you worry about a thing Sugarcube. You can trust us.” “Applejack, this is serious.” Sparkler told her. “You girls can’t tell ANYONE. Not your sisters, not your parents, not Discord.” She eyed Fluttershy when she named her boyfriend. “And ESPECIALLY not Twilight. She is the last person I want knowing this.” She said. “Chill our Sparkler.” Rainbow said. “For us a Pinkie Promise is literally akin to an unbreakable promise. Lest we want to suffer through Pinkie’s wrath.” She said. “NOBODY breaks a Pinkie Promise.” Pinkie said. “It just isn’t worth it.” Sparkler nodded. “Don’t make me have to use our memory erasing tech on you. Given the option, I’d rather trust you.” She said. “And trust us you can Darling.” Rarity said. “We shan’t breathe a word to anyone.” Sparkler nodded. “I’ll hold you to that.” She said. Rarity nodded. “Back on the subject of Twilight. Just tell us one thing. Do you really love her or is it just a SMILE mission?” She asked. Sparkler blinked, before a smile cracked on her face. “I saw that coming from a mile away. Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye. My feelings for Twilight are all me and no SMILE influence whatsoever. I’ll go up and get my journal full of doodles related to the subject if you need proof.” She said. Of course her friends would ask that. She said as Pinkie whispered FOREVER in her ear. “In that case, how’d the rest of your date go darling?” Rarity asked. “Yeah! Are you two a thing now?” Pinkie asked. Sparkler chuckled. “Yes. We’re a thing now.” She said. “Turns out she likes me back.” While everyone around her cheered and congratulated Sparkler, Sunset still congratulated her, but was still ticked off internally. I was actually HOPING it was just a SMILE mission. Grrr. She thought. Guess she was gonna need to move on. If only she knew how. Later that night, Sparkler slipped into the bed in her room in the apartment, glanced out the window into the starry night, and smiled. “I can’t wait for Monday to come.” She said as she drifted off the sleep, happily dreaming about Twilight. To be continued… > Music Time with the Rainbooms 1 (Count on You) > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Everyone ready?” Twilight asked “Ready Twi.” Twilight’s friends said. Twilight beamed and pressed the record button on the camera set on a tripod. Twilight moved back and smiled. “Hey there Rainbow Crowd! It’s the Rainbooms back with another music video. This time we’re gonna be covering the collab between Fun Time Rush and Countess Coloratura. Counting on you. Unfortunately Sunset won’t be joining us this time due to work. But to make up for that, we have Rainbow’s, Fluttershy’s, and Pinkie’s boyfriends Soarin, Discord and Cheese with us. And we have a NEW guest star. My girlfriend as of a week ago, Sparkler.” She said. “Howdy everyone!” “Happy to be here!” “Alright, Hit it Rainbooms!” Twilight said. With that, the Rainbooms started playing their instruments and the singing started. 🎵Now I'm about to give you my heart But remember this one thing I've never been in love before So, you gotta go easy on me I heard love is dangerous Once you fall you never get enough But the thought of you leaving Ain't so easy for me Don't hurt me, desert me Don't give up on me What would I want to do that for? Don't use me, take advantage of me Make me sorry I ever counted on you 1, 2, 3, 4 to the 5 Baby, I'm counting on you 1, 2, 3, 4 to the 5 Baby, I'm counting on you 1, 2, 3, 4 to the 5 Baby, I'm counting on you 1, 2, 3, 4 to the 5 Baby, I'm counting on you Understand I've been here before Thought I found someone I finally could adore But you failed my test Gotta know her better So, I wasn't the only one But I'm willing to put my trust in you Baby you can put your trust in me Just like you count to 3 You can count on me And you're never gonna see No numbers in my pocket Anything I'm doing girl I drop it for you 'Cause you're the one I'm giving my heart to But I gotta be the only one Don't hurt me, desert me Don't give up on me What would I want to do that for? Don't use me, take advantage of me Make me sorry I ever counted on you 1, 2, 3, 4 to the 5 Baby, I'm counting on you 1, 2, 3, 4 to the 5 Baby, I'm counting on you 1, 2, 3, 4 to the 5 Baby, I'm counting on you 1, 2, 3, 4 to the 5 Baby, I'm counting on you I really hope you understand That if you wanna take my hand Then you should put yours over my heart I promise to be careful from the start I'm trusting you with loving me Very, very carefully Never been so vulnerable Baby, I'll make you comfortable 1, 2, 3, 4 to the 5 Baby, I'm counting on you 1, 2, 3, 4 to the 5 Baby, I'm counting on you 1, 2, 3, 4 to the 5 Baby, I'm counting on you 1, 2, 3, 4 to the 5 Baby, I'm counting on you Now I'm about to give you my heart But remember this one thing I've never been in love before So, you gotta go easy on me🎵 In her apartment at night, Sunset watched the video her friends put out, and she closed her laptop in frustration. "Gah. Curse my need to watch every Rainbooms video so it will get at least one view, and like." She said. "That was the most painful 5 minutes of my life." "Hahaha! Oh but that's why it's so good. You being constantly reminded that you blew it with that Sparkler girl." Sunset's eyes widened in shock. "Oh no." She said. She knew that voice, And it was a voice she coulda gone the rest of her life without hearing. "Not you." She said. a hint of horror and fear in her voice. "Yes me. You thought you were rid of me? Maybe you shouldn't have gotten jealous." To Be continued... > Episode 8: Meeting the Parental Units > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 45 Main Street avenue Heart of Canterlot City October 20th, 2022 1630 hrs On a bright, Fall afternoon in Canterlot City, Sparkler and Twilight sat at the kitchen table in hers and Autumn’s apartment, doing homework. Sparkler glanced at her girlfriend and noticed the down look on Twilight’s face while she just stared at her worksheet. “Twilight?” Asked Sparkler. “Everything OK?” Twilight glanced up from her paper to see the concerned look on Sparkker’s face. She sighed. “It’s my family. They’re insisting that I bring you around for dinner sometime.” She said. “They want to meet their little girl’s significant other.” Sparkler responded. “Well it kinda has to happen sometime.” She said. “But I’m not ready yet!” Twilight panicked suddenly, spooking Sparkler. “What if they don’t like you? What if they ban you from my life?! What if my brother pulls out the handcuffs?!” She panicked. Sparkler saw her girlfriend about to hyperventilate and spoke up. “Twi! Breathe!” She said. Twilight did so and took a deep breath. She let it out and sighed. “S-Sorry. I’m just nervous.” Sparkler smiled and got out of her seat, she walked around the table and pulled Twilight into a comforting hug. “Twilight, relax. Cadence seems to like me, and we already know Night-Mare likes me. So that’s two of your family members all good.” She said. “That still leaves my parents and my brother.” She said. “And my brother especially doesn’t mess around.” Sparkler chuckled. “Fortunately I have nothing to hide. Especially nothing bad.” She assured Twilight. “There’s nothing you’re hiding that could possibly rub them the wrong way?” Twilight asked. “Nothing at all.” Sparkler lied. Something she hated doing to her girlfriend but was necessary. If she ever found out it would put her in SERIOUS danger. She thought. Twilight sighed. “I just really want them to like you. Especially if we end up being long term.” She said. “I HOPE we end up being long term.” Sparkler said. “I hope we end up like our pony counterparts. In the other Equestria.” “Engaged with 11 kids?” Twilight asked, she knew full well the situation with her counterpart, thanks to Sunset. “Maybe not 11 kids but I think we can handle a couple.” Sparkler said. Twilight chuckled. “Is it bad that I now want to research how two girls can have a biological kid without any external help?” She asked, blushing. “Ms Sparkle.” Sparkler said, giggling. “If I didn’t know any better, I’d say you want to have kids before we get married. Taking a page out of our counterpart’s book.” She teased, to which Twilight blushed even harder. “Ok, for real, we both know the circumstances behind our counterparts’ family. What actually are the odds that we’d have a kid before marriage? Like realistically?” Twilight asked. “Well, magic managed to become a reality in this world. So I’d say at this point anything is possible.” Sparkler said. “And I think you would make a great mother.” She added, winking at Twilight. Twilight blushed even harder. “S-Sparky, we haven’t even gotten through the meet the parents stage.” She whined. Sparkler laughed. “Hey. You’re the one who brought up the kids subject.” She said. “And–” Twilight was about to retort back when her phone buzzed. She glanced at the screen, and the color drained from her face. “It’s my mom.” She said. “She does know you’re here right?” Sparkler asked. Twilight bit her lip, before gulping. “She uh…might not know EXACTLY where I am. Maybe I omitted where…to prevent more nagging about a certain dinner arrangement.” She admitted. Sparkler blinked a few times, not sure if she heard right. “Twilight Sparkle? Not telling the truth? This is new.” She said, knowing full well she herself had no room to talk technically, but she had to keep the charade up. Twilight sighed as she answered the phone. “Hey mom.” She said. “Hey Twilight, are you going to be home soon? Or are you going to be out for dinner?” Her mom asked. Twilight glanced at Sparkler, who smiled and nodded, letting her know she could stay for dinner if she wanted. “I’ll be out for dinner.” She told her mom. “Alright. Sparkler knows not to feed you peanuts right?” Her mother asked, to which Twilight blushed like mad. “W-who said anything about having dinner with Sparkler?” Twilight asked. “Spike told us where you were.” Her mom responded. “A few dog biscuits got him talking.” Traitor! Twilight facepalmed and sank in her chair, still blushing while Sparkler giggled. “Makes sense, he’s a dog after all.” She commented. “Is that Sparkler Twilight?” Her mom asked. Twilight gulped, Sparkler smiled. “Yes Mrs. Sparkle. I’m Sparkler.” She said. “And yes. I do know not to feed her peanuts. One of the first things she warned me about.” Sparkler added. “Good. Twilight have you talked to her about having dinner with us this week?” Twilight’s mom asked. Twilight stiffened while Sparkler raised an eyebrow. “This week?” She asked Twilight. Twilight gave Sparkler a panicked look. She hadn’t told Sparkler yet, but her parents basically set a deadline for her bringing Sparkler over for dinner…and it was within the week. “I’ll talk to her I’ll be home by curfew ok bye mom.” Twilight said quickly before she cut the connection. Once the call was ended, Twilight buried her head in her hands, both embarrassed, and ashamed. Sparkler saw this and knelt down so she could better see Twilight’s eyes. “Hey, Twi? What’s wrong?” She asked. At first, Twilight didn’t say anything, before Sparkler heard…whimpering? “Twi?” She asked, concerned. She took Twilight’s hands in her own and moved them down, to see Twilight’s eyes glistening, Twilight was on the verge of tears, which in turn made Sparkler sad. “Aww, Twily.” She said as she wrapped her love up in a comforting hug. “It’s ok.” She cooed. “…I-I’m sorry.” Twilight whispered. “For what?” Sparkler asked. “For being scared like this…” Twilight responded. Sparkler’s eyes widened. “Twilight, that is nothing to be sorry for.” She said. Twilight returned the hug her girlfriend was giving, and it resulted in them falling onto the floor sitting. “I’m just so afraid they won’t like you. I don’t want to lose you when I just got you.” She whimpered. Sparkler smiled as she held Twilight close. “There’s only one way to find out if they will like me.” She said. “…bringing you over for dinner…” Twilight said. “If it helps. I’m pretty sure I already gained a point with them by telling them I know not to feed you Peanuts.” Sparkler said. “One point isn’t exactly much.” Twilight responded. “But it’s progress nonetheless.” Sparkler responded. “And I already have answers to the most likely questions they’ll ask me.” She said. “And what about the ones not likely?” Twilight asked. “I can turn out an answer pretty fast. Don’t worry Twi, I’ll win them over.” Sparkler assured Twilight. Twilight looked up into Sparkker’s reassuring eyes, and she finally sighed and smiled. “Does tomorrow work for you?” She asked. Sparkler smiled as she pecked Twilight on the forehead with her lips. “Sounds perfect.” She said. Twilight nodded, reached up, and wiped her eyes dry. “Thanks Sparkler…I feel a little better now.” She said. Sparkler smiled as she held Twilight close. 🎶anything you need that’s what I’ll be, you can come to me.🎶 She sang. Twilight smiled as she snuggled against Sparkler’s loving embrace. “I love it when you sing.” She said. “One of my many talents.” Sparkler responded. “If only you crystallized easier.” Twilight commented. “I wish I got a picture of that for all my screensavers and backgrounds.” She said. “Maybe next time Twi.” Sparkler chuckled. They eventually got up off the floor and ate dinner, but not for a little bit. 45 Main Street avenue Heart of Canterlot City October 21th, 2022 1730 hrs The next late afternoon, Sparkler was getting ready for dinner with the Sparkle family. “Hey Rarity? Think my fancy jacket/bow combo will do for tonight?” She asked her friend. Rarity, who had come over to help Sparkler prepare for the important event, crossed her arms and made a hmmm sound, before speaking. “I think your normal attire will do nicely.” She said. “My normal attire? But this is an important event in mine and twilight’s relationship.” Sparkler countered. “And her parents are expecting to meet YOU darling.” Rarity responded. “You as you are under normal conditions. The real you, honest you. Not a fancy mask put on for them.” She said. “Rares, I can’t show them the REAL me. Because while SMILE is well known, it maintains that agents not reveal their identities. My boss saying you six can know is something he doesn’t authorize often, if at all.” Sparkler explained. “Speaking of SMILE, you did inform them you were unavailable tonight right?” Rarity asked. “Yes. But I’m also not gonna do what I did last time and cut them off completely. If FOWL or someone else looks to attack me, I’ll know ahead of time this time…and this time I’ll also smash their faces in for getting in the way again.” Sparkler said. Rarity giggled at that. “Don’t mess with Secret Agent Sparkler eh?” She mused. “Especially when it comes to my relationship with Twilight. When I’m around her, I am not a secret agent, I’m just…Sparkling Medley…” Sparkler trailed off. It just dawned on her that she didn’t feel like a secret agent around Twilight…she felt like a normal teenage girl, just like she did until 2 years ago when she was recruited. “Holy nibblets, I haven’t truly felt like a normal teenage girl since I was recruited…” “Have you EVER felt like that when you have the ability to Crystalize?” Rarity asked. “That is something that’s been with me my whole life and doesn’t happen too often.” Sparkler countered. “Secret agent work happens more frequently.” She reasoned. “Huh. There’s another reason why I love Twilight…god I love her so much.” She said. “Well I hope you let her know that at some point.” Rarity said. Sparkler nodded, before her watch lit up with a text message, from Twilight. Twilight: Good News! My brother couldn’t get off work! So now it’s really just my parents you need to win over tonight. Phew! I’m feeling a lot better now. Sparkler couldn’t help but laugh. “Well, I think it’s safe to say she was most terrified of her brother not liking me.” She commented. “Shining Armor?” Rarity asked. “He always comes off as a gentleman. What is there to fear?” “I’ve heard that big brothers can be MASSIVELY overprotective and hard on SOs.” Sparkler said. “She prabably feared that with him being a police officer I might be dragged to the station by him.” She said. “…Valid fear.” Rarity responded, knowing Twilight. Sparkler nodded. “And it looks like he couldn’t get the night off Police detail. Eh, if it means Twilight isn’t agonizing over the dinner more than she probably already is.” She said. “Indeed.” Rarity said. Sparkler glanced at her watch. “Oh, time to go.” She said. “Go and win them over Sparkler. You got this.” Rarity said. Sparkler nodded and proceeded out the door. Sparkle Residence Outskirts of Canterlot City October 21th, 2022 1745hrs Twilight was pacing back and forth in hers and Night-Mare’s room, trying to keep calm. “Mom and dad are gonna meet Sparkler, mom and dad are gonna meet Sparkler…” She kept repeating with a mutter. Night-Mare watched her sister pace. “Twi, it was gonna happen eventually.” She told her. “I know.” Twilight said. “But it’s still terrifying. I want them to like her.” “And I’m sure they will.” Night Mare responded. “She already earned some favor with them by not feeding you peanuts.” She said. “That doesn’t help.” Twilight said. “Well, then look at it this way. Assuming adequate bond strength between you two, and assuming all relevant variables stay as they are now, in two years mom and dad can’t keep you from seeing her at all. Barring the school time of course.” Night-Mare said, using terms she knew Twilight would pay attention to. “So the worst they’ll be able to do in the long run is not let you go anywhere if Sparkker’s gonna be there during those two years.” Twilight heard them and blinked at Night-Mare. “Did you just turn my dilemma into an equation?” She asked. “I did. And you can’t deny the logic.” Night-Mare responded. Twilight ran through it again in her head…and she agreed with Night-Mare, the logic was sound. “I’d still prefer if we could see each other without being discreet about it…” She said. Her eyes suddenly widened when she realized something. “What if they make me transfer BACK to Crystal Prep to keep me from her?!” She shrieked. Night-Mare was about to say something, before they both heard the familiar sound of Sparkler’s car grow louder. Twilight smiled. “She’s here!” She exclaimed as she raced out the door, completely forgetting about what she just said. Night-Mare chuckled and shook her head. “And just like that she’s happier than a kid on Christmas. Oh yeah. Sparkler’s a keeper for sure.” She said as she followed her sister. Who had shooed away everyone who was at the door already, clearly wanting to be the one to answer, waiting for Sparkler to come to her this time. Outside, Sparkler took a deep breath as she walked up the path from the street to the front door, a bottle of some homemade lemonade that she made herself using her own recipe. “Flappy there’s no activity in the area right?” She asked. “No chatter on SMILE frequencies. Doubtful that you’ll be hearing from them tonight.” Flappy responded. “In that case, keep quiet this time. But do warn me if things go sideways.” Sparkler responded as she reached for the door and knocked. The door was instantly opened and Sparkler saw Twilight standing at the door. “Sparkler!” She exclaimed happily as she reached out and hugged Sparkler. Sparkler chuckled when she was pulled into the hug. “Hey there Twi. You’re awfully happy to see me for someone who spent the afternoon at school.” She said. “I can’t be happy to see my girlfriend?” Twilight asked. “Wasn’t complaining.” Sparkler responded as Twilight let her inside. Night-Mare had come downstairs by then and smiled at Sparkler. “Hey there Sparks.” She said as she held out her fist for a fist bump. Sparkler bumped her own fist with her fellow SMILE agent. “Sup Night-Mare.” She said. Twilight inwardly sighed in relief. She already knew Night-Mare liked her but she couldn’t help but be nervous that something might have changed. At that moment, the three teenagers heard an older woman call from the kitchen. “Girls! Is that Sparkler?” The woman asked. “Yeah mom!” Night-Mare responded before Twilight could say anything. “She’s here!” “Great! How bout you three come to the kitchen? A bit tied up here.” Called out their mother. Night-Mare smiled her sister and her girlfriend and gestured for the kitchen. “After you.” She said. Twilight gulped, and hesitated. Sparkler took one of her hands in her own to comfort her. Twilight turned to see Sparkler’s reassuring smile. With that sight, she took a deep breath and led Sparkler to the kitchen, with Night-Mare following suit. They entered the kitchen, and Sparkler saw Cadence in there with a pair of adults she assumed was Mr and Mrs Sparkle, confirmed by her glasses auto showing her their SMILE files. Cadence was the first to notice them enter, she smiled. “Hi Sparkler.” She beamed. “Glad you could join us for dinner tonight.” She said. Sparkler smiled as she waved at Cadence. “Hey Cadence. Nice to see you again.” She said. Mrs Sparkle turned from the counter and smiled when she saw the girl matching the description Twilight gave her. “Sparkling Medley I presume?” She asked. “Yeah. That’s me.” Sparkler responded, holding out her hand to shake Mrs. Sparkle’s. “Nice to meet you Mrs. Sparkle. I can see where Twilight gets her looks from.” She said. It wasn’t lost on her the resemblance the mother and daughter had. Mrs. Sparkle shook Sparkler’s hand smiling. “It’s very nice to meet you too Sparkler.” She said. “Twilight’s told us so much about you.” “What has she said about me?” Sparkler asked curiously. “Well, the main thing she talks about is your Crystal Pony Up ability.” Said a male voice from a different part of the kitchen. Sparkler turned to the source of the voice, as did Night-Mare and Twilight, and in that moment, Sparkler was again glad she took acting, because she didn’t even flinch when she saw something EXTREMELY disturbing. It wasn’t that Mr. Sparkle was doing anything wrong, just walking towards Sparkler, but he was wearing something that both Sparkler and Night-Mare, being SMILE agents, were alarmed by. Mr. Sparkle was wearing a brown Marvel’s Star-Lord jacket that had the FOWL PATCH on it. Sparkler’s glasses lenses filled up her vision with alerts and such, which she managed to blink away while both hers and Night-Mare’s minds raced. Is he a FOWL agent?! Am I living with a literal bad guy?! Mr. Sparkle, none the wiser about what was going through his daughter’s head, held out his hand to Sparkler. “Nice meet you Sparkler. I’m Night-Light, and my wife is Twilight Velvet.” He said. Sparkler smiled and shook Mr. Sparkle’s hand. “Nice to meet you Mr. Sparkle.” She said. “Hey uh…dad? Where did you get that jacket?” Night-Mare asked. Mr. Sparkle glanced at his jacket. “Oh this?” He asked. “Just arrived today. Ya know how my old jacket got wrecked at work?” He asked. Twilight and Night-Mare nodded. “Yeah well, I found this one online from a brand named FOWL…I don’t know why they chose THAT name for the brand but I thought the jacket looked cool so I ordered it.” He explained. For the sake of a LOT of people PLEASE let that be the honest truth! Night-Mare screamed in her head. She momentarily, inwardly breathed a sigh of relief when she heard her dad’s explanation on how he got a FOWL jacket, but she was still a tad skeptical, if only because she knew how dangerous FOWL could really be if they wanted to and she also knew Twilight had a lot of magical research on her computer. Hoping to find something to take her mind off it for a bit, Night-Mare glanced at Sparkler, and noticed she had a bottle in her hand. “Hey Sparkler. Whatcha got there?” She asked. Sparkler glanced at Night-Mare, and then down to the bottle she still had. “Oh, right.” She said. She forgot about her offering. She held the bottle up. “I thought you guys might like some of my homemade lemonade. Original Sparkler recipe.” She explained. “How thoughtful.” Mr. Sparkle responded as he took the bottle in his hand. “We can drink it with Dinner tonight.” At that moment, they all heard a ding. Mrs. Sparkle smiled. “Which is ready now! Everyone grab a plate and head to the table. There we can pester Sparkler.” She joked. “Mom!” Twilight whined. “Oh relax Twily.” Mr. Sparkle said. “It’s tradition with these things.” Sparkler chuckled as she wrapped an arm around Twilight. “Yeah. Don’t worry Twi. I got nothing to hide.” She said. Twilight just sighed and got a plate, as did everyone else. The next few hours were exactly like Sparkler expected. The Sparkles asked about her life, hobbies, what made her fall for Twilight, all the typical questions. Sparkler was prepared for every single one. And while she had relaxed after Mr. Sparkle explained why he had the jacket, which was very much a plausible reason, she still had the potential implications in the back of her mind. There could literally come a day where I might have to drag Mr. Sparkle to prison. She didn’t like the idea one bit. The idea that someone related to Twilight could be evil. Night-Mare had similar thoughts, except for her it was even more personal, since she was her dad’s flesh and blood. Meanwhile, as the night progressed, Twilight began to relax for real, she could see it in their faces that her parents were in fact liking Sparkler. And the lemonade she brought was a hit, of course Twilight already knew that it would when Sparkler mentioned she brought it. It was by far the best lemonade she had ever tasted. Finally, after a lovely dinner, and a few sneak glances from Night-Mare directed to Sparkler, because of the FOWL jacket, Sparkler bid farewell to the Sparkles, thanked them for having her, and Twilight walked her to her car. Twilight let out a sigh of relief. “Whew, glad that’s over.” She said. Sparkler chuckled. “Hey. It wasn’t that bad right?” She asked. “I think your parents do like me.” She commented. “It seems they do…” Twilight said…before she suddenly pulled Sparkler into a tight hug. “Oh thank god they like you!” She exclaimed happily. Sparkler chuckled as she hugged Twilight back. “Yeah. Good thing they do.” She said. “Now we just need to worry about my police brother.” Twilight said. “Don’t worry Twi, if I can win over your parents, I’m sure I can win over your other sibling.” Sparkler said. “Just need to make sure I don’t give him a reason to pull me over.” Twilight blinked, before she whipped out her phone and opened an app that her family had that let each other know where they were. She saw Shining’s bubble at the police station. “Speaking of being pulled over, it’s not likely you’ll be pulled over by him tonight.” She said, sighing in relief. Sparkler laughed. “Oh? Were you afraid that he’d pull me over because he missed dinner?” She asked slyly. “Sparkler, that would be an abuse of power, which is a big no no.” Twilight responded. “Guess we’re good then.” Sparkler said. Twilight giggled, before she leaned forward and locked lips with Sparkler in a quick kiss. She pulled back after a few seconds. “See you tomorrow morning for school?” She asked. “Every day of the week.” Sparkler responded. “Have a good night Twi.” “Now that this is over I can.” Twilight responded. Sparkler nodded, and after giving Twilight one more cheek kiss, got into her car, and drove off. Twilight watched until Sparkler’s car disappeared, and squealed in delight as she walked back into her house. “Nothing can get in the way now.” She commented to herself. Sparkler drove home on a clear starry night, along the way she smirked. “Nailed it.” She commented. “Congratulations on a successful evening Sparkler.” Flappy said. “However we may have a MAJOR problem called Mr. Sparkle.” He said. And that took away Sparkker’s smile. She sighed. “He said he thought it was a cool jacket.” She said. “That could just be his cover.” Flappy responded. “Flappy, let’s not jump to any conclusions.” Sparkler said. “I’m sure Night-Mare’s gonna look into it.” “And what if she does find evidence related to Mr. Sparkle’s involvement in FOWL?” “For the sake of Twilight and her whole family, I hope he has no involvement.” Sparkler said as she drove through the night. To be continued… > Bonus Episode: Concerns > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sparkle Residence Outskirts of Canterlot City October 22th, 2022 0045hrs In the Sparkle Residence, the Sparkle family was sound asleep in their beds, dreaming whatever dreams they had. That is, all except one. Night-Mare was not having such a good dream as she tossed and turned in her bed. Soon, she opened her eyes in a jolt and she panted. It took a moment but she saw that she was in her room. When that registered in her brain she sighed and facepalmed. Ugh! Why did dad have to get that stupid jacket?! She asked in her mind. Ever since she found out she had it, it was all Night-Mare could think about, and the implications it came with. Deciding she was too awake now to go back to bed, Night-Mare decided on a course of action. Might as well investigate Twilight’s lab to see if dad tampered with anything. She thought as she quietly got out of bed, slipped on her slippers, and as quietly as she possibly could, made her way out to Twilight’s lab in the backyard. She punched in the code to open the door, which she noticed wasn’t already open, and entered the lab. She looked around using her phone’s flashlight to see if anything was out of the ordinary. While she was looking, her phone started buzzing. She looked at the contact, and raised an eyebrow. “Sparkler?” She asked, confused. She tapped the screen to accept the call, and put it on speaker. “Sparkler? Little late for a call don’tcha think?” She asked. “Sorry Night-Mare, did I wake you?” Sparkler asked. “No, I was already up. Couldn’t sleep.” Night-Mare said. “Yeah me neither.” Sparkler responded. “Because of my dad’s jacket?” Night-Mare asked. She recognized that she wasn’t the only SMILE agent who saw her dad with the jacket tonight. “Yeah. I’m confident that your dad ISN’T evil, but at the same time, you know full well what a FOWL agent in the Sparkle family means.” Sparkler told Night-Mare. “Yeah. I’m out in Twilight’s Lab checking for tampering right now…you…haven't said anything to SMILE have you?” She asked. “Not yet anyway.” Sparkler said. “Good…wanna keep this between us until we have more concrete evidence?” Night-Mare asked. “As much as I hate to admit it, FOWL did make a cool jacket.” She said. “It really could just be as simple as finding it online.” “That’s what I’m hoping. For a lot of peoples’ sake.” Sparkler said. “Me too.” Night-Mare said. “So, we keep this between us until we have something to report…and I’ll keep a sharp eye out for anything suspicious.” She said. “Sounds good.” Sparkler said. “I’ll let you know if I find anything. Goodnight Sparkler.” She said. “Night Night-Mare.” Sparkler said before Night-Mare cut the connection. She went back to searching for tampering. “If FOWL gets their hands on Twilight’s magic data, all heck’s going to break loose globally.” She commented. To be continued next time…