Twilight stomps her hoof in frustration, tossing yet another book to the side. It joins and ever-increasing pile next to her, a menagerie of tomes covering all manner of magical knowledge, but somehow lacking the one thing you're looking for: a way to get home.

"I can't believe there's nothing in this whole library about inter-dimensional teleportation! Teleporting in general still requires the manipulation of time and space, so why should that last element be so difficult?! Gaaah!" She angrily slams a book shut and drops it at her hooves.

"I'm sorry, I really appreciate the help, Twilight," you tell her, skimming through a book of your own. You can't make heads or tails of it; it's written in some sort of ancient hieroglyphic language, with pictures of unicorn heads, horse shoes, leaves, and all kinds of seemingly random nonsense. "I know you have a lot on your plate today, but if I have to search every book in this library to get home, I will."

She wipes the sweat from her head with a foreleg.

"You're welcome. I don't mean to sound upset, it's just...infuriating, you know? Whatever process that brought you here has to be able to send you back. Finding that process is the problem..."

Spike comes out from the kitchen, carrying a glass of water in his claws.

"Hey, I thought you might like a drink. I know how Twilight can get when she's in her 'I have to find that book' mode." You gladly accept it and down half of the glass before even saying anything in reply.

"Oh man, that hit the spot. Thanks, Spike."

"No problem. So...any luck so far?"

You toss the hieroglyphic book into the pile with a shrug.

"Nothing. Absolutely nothing. The more we look, the more I feel like I'm never getting out of here." You mind wanders to your family, your brother and sisters, your mom. Aunts and uncles. They probably all think you're dead by now. If you never see them again...

"I don't know what I'm gonna do if I'm stuck in Equestria. No offense to any of you, of course. You've all been so kind to me since I got here, and I haven't done a single thing to repay that kindness. I swear I will before I go home. It's just going to be hard to abandon everything, and everyone, I loved. I have to find something..."

Spike sits down in a small chair and taps the table with a claw.

"What would Princess Celestia think of this? Does she even know you're here?"

The name sounds familiar. According to the few weeks of lessons you've had from Twilight, you learned that the twin Goddesses -- Celestia and Luna -- control the sun and the moon. Which begs the question of whether this version of Earth is heliocentric at all, or if the Earth really is the center of the solar system. Does Celestia control the sun when it's just over Equestria? Who takes over when this half of the planet is shrouded in darkness from Luna's night? Is there ANOTHER pair of princesses who control the sun and moon on the opposite side of the planet?? Do they actually control it at all to begin with, or are they just using it as some sort of lie to keep themselves in power? Equestria is weird. Really weird.

"Not as far as I'm aware, no. I mean, she might, since she's a deity and all that, but if she has, she hasn't contacted Twilight or myself."

"I see. So, I have to ask...have you tried asking them for help?"

Twilight shoots you a concerned look and stands up with a stretch.

"We haven't really considered it. You know how busy Celestia and Luna are, Spike. We wanted to try and find it ourselves...but that doesn't seem to be working very well."

"Twilight, you're her star pupil, and you're sheltering an unknown species because you want to help him get back home. Do you really think there's anything about that she's going to reject out-of-hand? Hoof. Whatever."

She hangs her head in defeat, obviously not happy at the prospect of having to get the Princesses involved with the situation.

"I suppose not. It's just that--"

"That I'm not so sure about it," you interrupt. "To be honest, the thought of meeting a pair of living deities kind of scares me. I know you two always talk about how great she is, and Rarity told me about how she's learned so many life lessons because of Celestia's influence, but...it's still not something I'm eager for. What if they think I'm some sort of, I dunno, monster?"

"A monster? Really?" Spike gives you a less-than-convinced look. "You speak Equestrian, you know your manners, you were part of your military, and you haven't tried to harm a hair, or feather, or scale, on any of us. You're definitely not a manticore, far as I can tell. I think you need to relax! Celestia is such a kind princess, you'd love her. And Luna...well, I've never really seen Luna except for that one time when she terrified Ponyville..."

"Terrified?!"

"Oh, no! It was just a misunderstanding! Sorry, didn't mean to worry you. She'd just regained a portion of her power after being banished to the moon for a thousand years, so she was a little, uh, socially awkward."

"SHE DID VERILY SPEAKETH IN THINE ROYAL CANTERLOT VOICE!" Twilight shouts, doing her best impression of the night goddess. "Heh heh...she had some adjusting to do. Just imagine how much life back on your world changed in a thousand years, and you'll get some idea of how lost she must have felt. She's better now, I think. I haven't seen her in over a year, she's constantly busy. Whenever she's not sleeping during the day, that is. Controlling the night does that to you."

"Well, I suppose it couldn't be too bad," you say to Twilight, but you're unsure of it yourself. "She has magic so powerful it can yank around a giant star, so maybe it's possible for her to help me."

"Hey, it's worth a try," Twilight replies as she puts a foreleg over your back. "You wanna get back home, don't you?" You nod solemnly. "Then they may be our best bet. And if they can't help you, well..."

"Then I'm stuck here." You fidget with a button on your worn fatigues, the only pair of clothes you've had to wear since arriving in Equestria nearly two months ago. It makes you wonder if the digital camo and beret will make you look too militaristic. The last idea you want to give a sun-wielding goddess is that you're a potential threat. You wish you had a suit or something. Or even your Class A jacket and tie. Wasn't Rarity supposed to be really good at making stuff like that? You'll have to ask her some time.

"...I wasn't gonna put it like that, but, maybe. Let's just handle this one issue at a time, alright? I'll send Princess Celestia a letter letting her know that we want to come speak with her tomorrow, and that we have someone with us she's never met before. That should pique her curiosity. Then we just wait for a reply."

It sound simple enough.

"Alright, let's do it."

==========

The letter took less than an hour to come back. By the sound of things, Celestia is very interested to meet you. You spent a restless night in your bed, staring out the windows of the second floor observatory. Any time now, you could be home. You know you shouldn't get your hopes up, but it's hard not to. You enjoy the company of the ponies you've met, but they're not who you know, or who you love. They're just...helpful. You'd still miss them, though. Partly because no one back home will ever believe where you've been. Probably best to just keep it to yourself. Somehow.

You managed to drift off for a few hours before sunlight streaming in to the room wakes you up. You feel groggy and tired, but hopeful. Today could be the day you go home!

There's a knock on your door, probably Twilight. You scramble into your clothes and open the door to find her standing there, Spike on her back.

"Soooo, are you ready for the big day? It's not every day you get to meet a Princess!"

"Not every day I get to go home, either. Hopefully! Still kinda nervous about this, but we'll see how it goes." You mess with your fatigues and make sure everything is inspection-worthy, just like Drill Sergeant Mendoza drilled into your head. They may be faded, but they're serviceable.

"Do you wanna grab some breakfast before we go? It could be a long day."

"No thanks, I'm too nervous to eat," you admit, grasping your black beret in your hands.

"Well, alright...if you get hungry let me know, there's lots of places in Canterlot to eat. Expensive, though..."

"That's alright, Twi. You can save your Bits, really! I just want to get this over with, for better or for worse. You understand, right? If you ended up in my world, you'd feel the same way. Actually, if you ended up in my world, they'd probably do terrible things to you and...you know what, nevermind. Let's just go." You can only imagine what would happen if someone got a hold of a sentient, magical pony. It probably wouldn't end well, like something out of one of those torture-porn movies. You gotta give it to the ponies, they're really good at not being merciless dicks to people.

"Riiiight...let's get going before I ask you to expand upon that assumption, shall we?"

You give a curt nod and follow behind the purple unicorn, down the stairs and out the front door. She shuts it tight with a field of purple magic. You fuss with your beret as you get the fold just right. Old habits and all that.

"So, before we go," Twilight asks as Spike rolls up the royal letter and hops down from her back, "is there anything you need to do?"

"Actually...do you think we could bring Rarity with us?"

"Hmm? Rarity? I suppose we could, but if I may ask...what for?"

"She...she was the one who found me, after all. I owe her my life. If I should happen to find a way home soon, I want her to be there so I can say goodbye." You involuntarily reach for the small, white teddy bear in your left trouser pocket. She gave it to you a month ago, a week before you left the hospital. It's been your most treasured keep-sake since then. Of all the ponies you've met, you're going to miss her the most.

"In that case, of course we can. Though whether she wants to go is another matter entirely. You know how she can get when she's...preoccupied." She turns to the purple and green dragon standing next to her. "Spike, we could be gone a while, so Fluttershy's agreed to watch you for a while, alright?"

"Relax, Twilight, I'm a big dragon! I can take care of myself!" Spike answers with a proud grin and a flex of his small arms. Twilight laughs and rubs his head with a hoof. "Hey!"

"Alright, I'll see you later."

Spike sticks his hand out, and you crouch down and grasp his in your own.

"Spike, if I don't see you after this, it's been good knowing you. You're an awesome little guy, you'll be a bad-ass in no time!"

"See, Twi? I told you. I'm destined for greatness." Twilight rolls her eyes. "Take care, it's been nice knowing you too!"

It's a nice, short walk to the Carousel Boutique, with its stylized decorations and eye-catching color scheme. Twilight gives a knock on the door, but there's no answer. She cautiously opens the door and pokes her head in.

"Rarity? Hello? Are you here?" Twilight gives you a shrug and walks in, craning her neck around the corner. "Rarity? If you're not busy we need to ask you something."

Apparently Rarity didn't hear you come in, because she walks in from a back office area while muttering to herself. Small, orange-framed glasses are perched on her nose and she's wrapped in a thin robe with pink, poofy ends.

"Rarity? Hey, we were jus--"

"AAAAAAH!" Rarity jumps at least a foot in the air, landing awkwardly and curling herself into a fetal position. Her eyes are barely more than pinpoints, her mane a tattered mess of frazzled ends and uncombed hairs.

"Rarity! Relax, it's just us! We knocked on your door and called out to you...are you okay?"

Her eyes widen again as she regains some sense of composure, suddenly very aware of what she looks like.

"Oh, Twilight, heh...heh heh...y-yes. I'm sorry, I must not have noticed you. I've just been busy this morning...I must look like a complete mess, if you'd like to come back in an hour, we could--"

"We don't have an hour, Rarity. That's just it. We were coming by to ask if you wanted to go with us."

"Hmm? Go with you where? Goodness, I am no condition to be seen at a social gathering! Oh, my mane..."

You cover your face with your palm at the white unicorn's dramatics. You've grown to see her as a good friend, but her melodramatic nature still grates on you once in a while. You know she's different in private; you and her talked for many hours while you were in the hospital, and not once did her over-reactive side come out. She's hard to understand sometimes...

"We're going to see Princess Celestia."

"Excuse me?! Being seen in public looking like a ruffian is one thing, but in front of the PRINCESS? No! I shan't go with you, not like this, I simply look dreadful."

"It was my idea, Rarity," you add, hoping to talk some sense into her.

"...it was?"

"Yeah. We're going to see Celestia because we've run out of ideas. I can't get home any other way, as far as we can tell, and she's my last hope for this. And since you were the one who found me, the one who's brought me more comfort than anyone else, it wouldn't feel right without you being there if I end up going home. Please?"

Rarity's look changes from one of panic to one of a humbled, suddenly sad gaze.

"You...you came here just to get me? Because you would miss me?" You nod slowly. "Oh. Oh dear. Goodness, now I've gone and made a foal of myself...I apologize, darling."

"So you'll go with us?"

"Of course. You've been a dear friend, and if this is truly good-bye, then I want to be there to see you off. Just allow me, say, ten minutes? I can make myself decent."

"Sure. We'll just wait out here for you."

"Thank you, darling. I'll be out shortly, and we shall give you a fond bon voyage, hmm?" She turns and trots up the stairs to the second floor. You take a seat alongside Twilight on a big, red couch.

"That was easier than I thought it would be," she says. "Especially once she started acting melodramatic. She's really taken a liking to you, hasn't she?"

"She has, yeah. And I to her. She's been a good friend ever since I was laid up in the hospital. I know she can be a drama queen, but deep down she's very much a giving, friendly pony. I'll miss her once I'm home, you know? And you, of course. I'll even miss Applejack and Rainbow Dash and the others, even if I've only met them once. They seem to have good heads on their shoulders.

If I don't get the chance to later, I want to thank you for everything you've done for me. You didn't have to take me in as a guest, but you did, and for that I'm eternally grateful." You grasp her foreleg in your hand and squeeze tightly, a genuine smile across your face.

"Oh, I would have done the same for anypony! Or creature. Or human. You know what I mean." Twilight puts her forelegs around you and gives you a big hug. You return it with your own, your hands on her soft coat. A feeling you've become used to by now, and one you'll no doubt miss.

Rarity comes back out in fifteen minutes, her mane and tail impeccably curled and her eyes highlighted with blue eyeshadow. This is 'decent' to her? She looks just fine!

"Right, my apologies for taking so long, but one mustn't rush beauty. Shall we go?"

Twilight nods and closes her eyes.

"Okay, stand next to me, everyone. I'm gonna teleport us there."

"You're gonna what?!" you ask, not so sure in her ability to teleport two ponies and a human. She teleports herself all the time, yeah, but this is different.

"We'll be just fine, relax! I mean, I've never teleported a human, but in theory it's not too different."

"In theory? In theory I could arrive with my insides on the outside."

"Oh, don't be ridiculous! I know what I'm doing! Mostly."

Before you can protest further, your vision is filled with bright, purple magic. A tingling, electric feeling washes over you, and the world around you flashes into nothing.

==========

It's a cool, sunny day as you walk alongside Rarity on the outskirts of the Swayback Mountains. All things considered, you feel pretty good. Better than you have in quite a while. Even with the ongoing issues of Cashmere's store, and the complicated situation with Fluttershy, it feels like things are going to be alright. You can't really put your finger on it, but you feel...positive.

Probably because you have an ulterior motive for being out here. Oh, she doesn't know it of course, but it's kind of fun to be secretive.

"I'm surprised you wanted to tag along, darling. Usually I bring Spike with me to dig up gemstones. What made you want to come out here?" Rarity asks, pulling a red wagon behind her. You offered to pull it along yourself, but she insisted on being hitched up to it. Tradition, she says. That, and she's stronger than she looks. You can only imagine how heavy a wagon full of gems must weigh. For the moment, though, it's less than half-full.

"I dunno, I figured it would be good to get some fresh air and do a little walking. I don't think I've ever been out this way, either." You constantly swivel your head, looking at the vibrant greenery and brightly-colored birds flying overhead and nested in trees. Ponyville sits nestled in the valley below, and you're barely able to make out the Boutique's unique shape from your vantage point.

"I've always enjoyed the mountains, ever since I was a kid. My grandpa had a pair of ATVs -- uh, those are motorized vehicles you sit on -- that we would ride up these winding paths through the hills, and a lot of them ended in spectacular views. This place kinda reminds me of that."

"Nothing quite like some nostalgia to lift one's spirits, hmm? I realize you miss your family, dear, but for what it's worth, I'm glad you came out with me today. A little change of scenery never hurts."

"Of course, hon. I do miss them, yeah, but like I've said, I've come to accept that I likely won't see them again. At least by now they'll have moved on without me." It still causes a pang of regret to course through your chest, but it's slowly become easier to deal with. "Besides, I couldn't resist the opportunity to see how you get your gems. You always come home with carts full of 'em."

Rarity's horn flashes bright blue again, causing patches of ground to glow the same color -- the sign that there's gems buried beneath the surface.

"Speaking of which, I seem to have found a few more. Would you like to do the honors, darling?"

You heft your shovel from over your shoulder, plant it firmly against the ground, and kick it downward with your boot. A little wrenching of the soil pulls up a loose collection of multi-colored gems and crystals, mostly reds and greens. Rarity floats them up for inspection, shaking the dirt off them.

"Hmm...we can keep most of these, yes. This one's flawed, though." She levitates it in front of your view. "Do you see how the internal structure is misshapen?" You lean in closer, trying to peer through the translucent green gem.

"Can't say I do, actually." You scratch your head in confusion.

"I suppose it's something that takes time to learn. No matter! We'll just add this to the pile for Spike." Rarity drops it in a sectioned-off corner of the wagon, where imperfect gems are slowly piling up. The imperfections are what make them tasty, or so Spike claims. You can't imagine how strong of a stomach dragons must have to consume rock-hard gemstones.

You repeat the process a few times, making sure to cover the holes back up once you're finished with them. As it turns out, gems are abundant in Equestrian soil, and only a select few varieties are worth more than a few bits. One of them happens to be the one you're looking for: A palm-sized, bright blue gemstone with a translucent, swirling look to it. It's supposed to be one of the very rare gems that are magically infused.

The only reason you know what to look for is because you spent an hour at Twilight's library this morning. 'Like someone took the clearest blue ocean waves and froze them in time', she said, pointing at a picture in the book. From the picture alone it looked amazing. The book called it a 'Seabreeze Sapphire'.

So, you volunteered to go with Rarity on her monthly run to the Swayback Mountains, hoping to find one of them before she notices.

Another flaring of magic, and another patch of ground glows softly. You dig your shovel in and pull them up, leaning in to get a closer look at the patch of crystals. Nothing matches what you're looking for, but there is a particularly vibrant purple stone that catches your eye. You lift it up and stare into it, not entirely sure what to make of it. It seems...odd.

"Hey, hon, what's this?" Rarity floats it over and ponders over it for a few seconds, turning it around a few times. Her eyes widen with recognition.

"Oh, goodness! I do believe you just found a Night's Heart amethyst."

"A what?"

"Night's Heart amethyst. They're highly prized for their ease of shaping and deep color. Did you know the Gryphon Emperor has a crown studded with these? It must be quite the sight."

"Can't say I did. So I take it it's worth quite a bit?"

"Very much so. Why, I could affix this front-and-center on a dress, or just sell the raw amethyst if I were so inclined. I could easily get three hundred bits for it!"

You let out a long, low whistle. That's a hell of a find. Rarity digs through the pile of gems in her wagon, trying to make space for the precious purple crystal. You take your shovel and start covering up the hole...only to notice a glint of bright blue. Carefully, you use your fingers to dig around it, uncovering small pieces of it. It's shockingly bright, a kind of light blue you've never seen in your life.

No way. There's no way you're that lucky. It couldn't possibly be it.

You take a peek behind your shoulder to make sure Rarity isn't looking, and pry it out of the ground. The facets are perfectly even, as if it's already been cut, and it feels surprisingly light in your hand. You gaze into the crystal's swirling interior and feel your mind become flooded with the sensation of being at a beach, floating just barely over the waves, the cool mist playing at your toes as the roiling waves lap at the sand. It's...amazing.

"Like someone took the clearest blue ocean waves and froze them in time..." you whisper to yourself.

"What was that, darling?" Rarity asks as she sets the purple gem down. Her voice snaps you out of your trance. You quickly shove the gem into a pocket, hoping it doesn't protrude enough to be noticeable.

"Oh, nothing, hon. Just filling another hole, you know how it goes."

"...Indeed. Perhaps we should just call it a day? I believe we have enough gemstones to make quite a few ensembles, and that amethyst will certainly help in making up the profits we lost yesterday. I'm afraid we'd need another ten or fifteen to break even, though..."

Oh, right. The lost money. You'd forgotten about that. You sit down on the dirt beside Rarity and take a drink from your bottle of water, offering it to her after a long pull. She accepts it with a smile and sits down on her haunches, but not before drawing a small towel from the wagon and placing it under her. You roll your eyes at her continued attempts to avoid getting dirty on a task that involves digging holes in the ground.

"What? It's dirty. I've spent far too long on this coat today to get it full of dirt and debris. You understand."

"Uh-huh." You grasp at your pocket, making sure the gem is still there. "I'm afraid to ask, but exactly how much did we lose yesterday?"

She sighs and sets the water bottle down at her hooves.

"In total? Four thousand fifty-one bits. Most of that from having to reach into my emergency reserves of precious materials."

"Four thousand?! That's more than we usually pull in in a week!" You knew it was bad, but you didn't think it was that bad.

"I'm afraid so. I went through nearly every bolt, roll, and stack of materials I had on hoof. And the formal attire! I'm going to be making these outfits for the entire week..." She stomps a hoof in annoyance. "I suppose it could have been worse, though. We sold quite a few more accessories than I'd thought, and those are mostly profit, even at half-off. I'll have to create new ones all over again, though. I've half a mind to close the store for a few days and just get it out of the way. Oooh, that Cashmere! If only she weren't so...so..."

"So much of a bitch?"

"I wasn't going to put it like that, but yes. I suppose if ever there were an apt time to use such a vulgar word, now would be it." You pick the water back up and take a swig, hiding a smile as she swears. "AUGH! That insufferable bitch!"

"Feel better?"

"A little. Don't tell anypony I said that."

You laugh and kiss her cheek.

"Secret's safe with me, hon."

Your arm goes around Rarity's neck, and you sit contentedly for several minutes, just staring off into the distance. In the far distance, you can see the jutting towers and spiral designs of Canterlot's buildings. Below you, Ponyville. Best of all, the mountain's height provides a clear view of Cloudsdale, something you never get to see from Ponyville. The Greco-Roman architecture is very similar to what you've seen in history books, complete with high columns and graceful arches, the tallest of which are connected by great, vibrant rainbows. Tiny dots of Pegasi zipping to and fro are the only indication that anyone actually lives there. You can't help but wonder what it would be like to live in a city made entirely of clouds...

"Darling," Rarity says quietly, "can I ask you something?"

"Of course, Rarity, you know you can ask me anything." Is it about Cashmere? Maybe she knows you have the sapphire...

"Be honest with me...what do you think of Fluttershy potentially living with us for a while?"

Oh. You suppose it had to be brought up at some point.

"Honestly?" you respond, preempting your answer with a deep exhale, "I don't know. This came out of left field, you know? I mean, I understand your feelings for her, and why you want to do this, but still...I dunno. I'm trusting your better judgment on this one. You've never led us astray on anything serious before, and you know your mind better than I do. So I guess I'd say I'm...cautiously optimistic."

She says nothing in return, simply nodding her head and staring into the distance.

"Hey. Honey."

She turns to face you, her eyes not betraying any particular thought or feeling. She's obviously unsure about the situation just as much as you are.

"Fluttershy is a good friend, she's been with you longer than anyone else. But you know what this entails, don't you? If it becomes..." you search your mind for the right word, "intimate between us."

"I know, darling. Believe me, I've thought very hard about this. Honestly, Cashmere has been a distant thought for most of the day." Rarity waves a dismissive hoof at the name.

"You know how things get when we're in the mood. We all have urges. And if Flutteshy is around when that happens, well...god, I can't believe I'm even discussing this." You massage your temples with your hand, trying to clear away some of the haze.

"I know what you're trying to say, darling. I do. You're nervous about the potential of making love with her around, or even to her. Is that it?"

"Yeah...yeah you could say that." You flick away a small clump of dirt with your hand, not really feeling like eye contact. "It's all just surprising to me, you know? I don't want things to be awkward. To me, Fluttershy's always been a friend, not a love interest."

Rarity doesn't respond for a few moments, choosing to bite her lip in thought.

"I'm sorry I dropped this on you, dear. You know I'd never force you to do anything you didn't want to do. I...I simply hoped we could bring her some measure of comfort and happiness. You and I, we've had relationships. They've come and gone, and now we're fortunate enough to have found each other. The joy you bring to my life every day, the feeling of simply waking up and knowing that you're beside me, that you're there for me if I need you through the day, I can't imagine ever living without them again. You're as much a part of me as the diamonds on my flank and the beat of my heart."

You feel your own heart melt a little at the heart-felt, if adorably sappy, expression of her feelings for you.

She continues, "that's why I wanted to share those things with her. She's never felt that tugging in her chest, that rush of elation that comes from seeing the one you love after a long day of work, or the intimacy of sharing your most private moments. Could you imagine if everyone you knew was growing up and moving on, but you were alone and hopeless?"

"Heh. Better than you know. It's not a good feeling."

"Then you know what it's like. Don't you think she'd be happier, more confident, if she knew that she was wanted? That she needn't be afraid of seeking out that connection?"

"I suppose so, yeah. I understand that you're just trying to help her. Honestly. And I think it's a very noble thing that you're seeking to do, hon. I'm just not entirely sure that it's some magical way to solve all her problems."

"Please, darling, don't think me that simple. I know it's not a be-all, end-all to whatever may be keeping her in her shell, so to speak, but I've no doubt it would help. By all means, if you feel I'm wrong in my assumption, speak up."

You lean in and give her a quick kiss, brushing her cheek with your thumb.

"I don't think you're wrong at all, honey. It's just going to take some getting used to, that's all. And if you're committed to this, then so am I. No matter what may come of it. Promise."

She smiles sweetly and nuzzles your cheek.

"Thank you, dear. It's a lot to ask, I know, but I believe it will be worth it in the end. Fluttershy isn't one to abandon a friend over something like this, she's probably just nervous about it, just like us. If you want to join me later, I think we should pay her cottage a visit later and discuss things with her. Whatever issues she has with this would be best served by bringing them out in the open, hmm? Now," she stands back up and re-hitches herself to the wagon full of gems, "let's get this precious cargo back home, shall we?"

==========

Once you got back home you helped Rarity remove the gems from the wagon, sorting them by color and size, being careful to avoid letting on that you kept one for yourself. She thanked you for your help and said that she needed to get started immediately on the orders she'd received from the previous day, and thought you might like to get out of the house for a while. It sounded like the perfect opportunity to you, so you took it.

It gave you the chance to go somewhere in particular -- the very store you're standing in front of right now. A small, quaint jewelry store tucked into the corner of Saddle-Side and Whitetail Lane. The same jewelry store you've heard mentioned by several ponies as being the best in Ponyville, possibly beyond that.

There's a small, blue-and-white sign sitting in a window, advertising twenty percent off all birth stones. Above it, in sweeping white letters, is the name of the store: First Sight Jewelers. You pull out the sapphire from your pocket, turning it in your hand and watching the gently swirling interior.

"Right...time to do this."

The pony behind the counter looks up as you walk in, a unicorn stallion with a grey coat that has just a hint of blue, and a receding hairline of dark blue hair. Most striking though, are his eyes -- they're silver. The first such you've ever seen in a pony. There's rough stubble around his jawline and chin, accenting the slight wrinkles on his forehead. He looks like he's been around for a while, and seen a lot.

"Well, if it isn't the only human in Equestria, walking into mah store. Ah'll be Celestia's uncle!" He walks around the counter with a limp in his front-right leg, and you catch a glimpse of his cutie mark: A sword and shield. Odd cutie mark for a jeweler...

"Oh, but where are mah manners? Heh. You'll have to forgive me, son, it's been a long time since Ah've seen a new face 'round here. Name's Aegis."

You introduce yourself and shake his hoof.

"Hmm. Strong grip. That's good. Gimme just a moment and Ah'll park mah rump behind this here counter." His accent strikes you as familiar, like he grew up in the South. It kinda reminds you of Applejack's, only more...wizened.

"I gotta ask, what's with the store name?"

"Huh? Oh. You're not the first person to ask. 'Who ever loved that loved not at first sight?' It's from an old poem."

"...Shakespeare?" Oh look, another famous person who had the exact same name and profession in Equestria. At this point it's almost become routine. Almost.

"Yeah, how'd you know? Eh, nevermind. What brings ya in t' mah store, youngin'? Ya lookin' to buy somethin' fer a lady friend 'a yours?"

"Well...kinda. I was hoping you could tell me more about this..." You reach into your pocket and pull out the sapphire again, holding it out in front of you. His silver eyes stare at the gemstone in thought, before he floats it over with a burst of silver magic.

"Well Ah'll be...ya know what ya got here, son?"

"I have a general idea. A Seabreeze sapphire, right?"

He nods in confirmation as he twists it around in the air, inspecting the details that you're sure could only come with time and practice.

"It just may be...there's a test for it, though. Gimme just a sec."

His horn flares with another layer of magic and he shuts his eyes, keeping them closed for several seconds. The crystal flares bright blue, seeming to give off its own light. Slowly, he opens his eyes again and lets out a breath.

"Ah do believe this is the genuine article. Magnificent. Where did ya find this, exactly?"

"Honestly? It was just kinda sitting beneath the surface. No more than a foot in the ground, mixed in with some other gems."

"You mean t' tell me you just found this sucker layin' in the ground? Didn't hafta chase after no greedy gryhpon?"

"No, can't say I did."

"Didn't try t' wrangle it away from a dragon's horde?"

"Nope, nothing like that."

"Ain't that somethin'...son, Ah've been operatin' this here store for the better part 'a twenty years now, and this is only the second time Ah've ever seen one 'a these Seabreeze sapphires. Hell, these things are rarer than a prairie dog in winter! How much do ya want fer it?"

"...Excuse me?"

"Ah said, how much do ya want fer it? Whatever it is, Ah'll pay."

You weren't expecting that.

"Uhhh, actually, I'm not looking to sell it at all."

"Yer not? Hmmmm. Then why'd ya stop by with it? Gotta be somethin' ya want with it!"

"Actually, I do. I want you to shape it for me, so that it can fit a necklace."

Aegis' eyes widen with surprise. Looks like he wasn't expecting that, either.

"Ya what? Shape it? But the facets are already perfect, son. Why bother?"

"Because," you say, taking out a folded piece of paper from your other pocket, "I want you to make it into this shape."

You unfold the paper and set it on the counter, where several carefully-drawn images of a diamond seek to cover the cut from every angle. The exact same cut as Rarity's cutie mark. The diamond itself is suspended in the center of a circle by two small, silver loops. On each side of the diamond is a thin half-circle of silver and a half-circle of gold, together forming the circular shape that surrounds the cut sapphire. Each line comes together at the top, where the two colors intertwine several times before splitting apart to form the rest of the chain. It's a design you came up with over the course of several weeks, and you're quite happy with how it looks. It should be beautiful...and expensive.

The jeweler eyes it, scratching his chin with a hoof.

"Yer sure about this. Right? Because what ya got here is worth a small fortune. Are ya really sure ya want me t' cut it into a diamond shape? Because it's not as easy as you may think."

"What do you mean?"

"This here sapphire is infused with magic, son. Cutting magic gems takes special equipment -- equipment Ah haven't had use for in years. Ah hope there's no rush on this, because it's gonna take me at least a week t' get all the equipment Ah need. And that equipment comes at a price. You understand."

"How much are we talking?" you brace yourself for the estimate.

"Hmm...depending on how long it takes, and how intricate you want the rest of the necklace t' be, we're talkin' somewhere in the range of fifteen hundred to eighteen hundred bits."

"Eighteen hundred?!" Well, shit.

"Look...Ah don't think ya fully realize how special somethin' like this is. Magic-infused gems, crystals, diamonds, whatever, they take extra care to work with. When you cut into a magical gem, ya ain't just cuttin' into a pretty piece a' rock, ya see. Yer cuttin' into the magical field itself. If it's not handled properly, if ya make a tiny mistake in how you go about it, well...ya end up with a dead, grey lump of crystal. No more magic, no more nothin'. Ah take it ya felt the sapphire's effects on ya, right?"

You nod, remembering the dream-like sensation of having the entire ocean at your feet.

"Then ya know just what Ah'm talkin' about when Ah say that it's an experience that ain't easy t' forget. If somethin' goes wrong with the cutting process, that magic's gone forever, and what you'll have in your possession is a stone that ain't worth its weight in horse apples."

You mull it around in your head, weighing the consequences. If he messes it up, then you're back where you started. But if he can get it right...it'll be the the most amazing jewelry you've ever seen. The finest Rarity's ever seen, for that matter.

"So...can you do it, Mr. Aegis? If you can get the equipment and take your time with it, do you have the ability?"

He thumps a hoof on the counter as he speaks.

"Son, if you can pay me, Ah can deliver. Ain't never made a mistake with orders for the Princesses, ain't plannin' on startin' now. You just let ol' Aegis handle it for you, and Ah promise you'll end up with the finest damn necklace you and yer lady friend have ever laid eyes on. Least, that's what Ah'm assumin' this is for. Right?"

"Actually, yeah, it's an engagement necklace. Well, engagement and wedding. I'm still not quite sure how that works here."

A big smile crosses the old unicorn's face, a smile full of memories.

"She's gonna be the luckiest damn woman in the world, Ah tell ya what. Ain't many ladies can say they've been proposed to with a magical sapphire necklace. Sounds like you done found yerself a damn fine girl."

"I like to think so," you answer with your own smile. "Truth be told, it's taken me a long time to work up the nerve to walk in here."

"Heh heh. The ol' jitters,huh? Yeah, Ah know all about that. When Ah asked mah ol' gal t' marry me, her eyes lit up like this here gem, but Ah tell ya, I was so damn nervous! I had those same jitters fer months! So while Ah know yer still gonna be nervous about it, all Ah can tell ya is that if yer heart is in the right place, ya ain't got nothin' t' worry about. 'Sides payin' fer that necklace, of course! Ha-HA!"

Yeah...paying for the necklace. Looks like it's time to ask for overtime at work. Or a raise. Or both.

"Ahhh, don't sweat it, son! Ah ain't some cut-throat mob boss, Ah'm a reasonable guy. Tell ya what...don't worry about payin' all at once, a'right? If it takes ya a few weeks or, hell, a few months, Ah ain't in any rush. Mah product speaks for itself. You just consider ol' Aegis yer friend, and Ah'll do right by ya. How's that sound?"

"That sounds pretty damn good, Aegis. I really do appreciate all of your help, especially with having to order new gear and all. Don't worry about how long it takes, I'm in no hurry. Can't rush perfection, right?"

"Now ya got it! That's been mah philosophy fer the last twenty years, Ah can tell ya that. Hell, even before Ah started doin' this here job."

You've met a lot of ponies in the time you've been here, but the one recurring theme seems to be 'I found my talent, I've stuck with it forever'. There isn't a lot of job diversity amongst individual ponies, the mostly tend to stick to what they know. Makes sense, what with the cutie marks and all that.

"If I may ask, sir, what did you do before you worked here? I noticed your cutie mark, but I didn't really think it fit a jeweler. Uh, sorry, I don't mean to pry or anything. Just curious."

Aegis sets the sapphire down under the counter and starts working the register, pulling the till open.

"Well, funny story, that...oh, Ah forgot t' mention, Ah'll require a down payment t' cover the cost of the equipment. Don't worry, it counts toward yer final total, so Ah ain't tryin' t' gip ya or nothin' like that. Two hundred should cover it."

You pull out your coin pouch and fish through it, plucking out several twenty-bit coins and a few ten-bit coins. You slide them across the counter and the jeweler floats them into the register, clicking it shut.

"Thank ya fer your business, son. Much appreciated. Ah'll get you a quote in just a minute, but Ah suppose Ah can tell ya what you were wonderin'." Aegis pulls out a roll of parchment and quill with a small pot of black ink, and starts writing out the terms of the service with his magical manipulation.

"Where t' start...well, when Ah was growin' up, Ah knew Ah wanted t' be part 'a the Royal Guard. Ah'd always seen 'em flyin' by overhead, back when Ah worked on mah granddad's farm. You know it wasn't too far from Granny Smith's place? Fine gal, she was. Real looker back in the day. She was still mah ma's age when Ah was just a colt, but one can dream, right? Anywho, every day the Royal Guard would fly overhead, sometimes in pairs, sometimes in a great formation 'a pegasi. Even saw 'em pullin' the Princess around once in a while. It was quite the sight."

You've seen the Royal Guard around a few places mostly during your visits to Canterlot, and they've always struck you as a force you wouldn't want to mess with. Even though war has been unheard of for nearly a thousand years in Equestria, their training is top-notch, and you've heard rumors that they have a massive stockpile of weapons and armor ready should such a thing happen. They certainly look tough, with their gilded armor and roman-style helmets.

Aegis dips his quill again and continues, "When Ah turned eighteen, Ah volunteered for the Royal Guard, right after Ah got mah cutie mark. Can you believe it? Ah was a blank-flank for nearly eighteen years 'a mah life!" Well, at least Sweetie and her friends aren't alone, then.

"Even though most of the Guard are pegasi, they still have need of unicorns and earth ponies, just in different fields. Me? Ah was trained t' be a spellsword. That ain't t' say Ah can toss fireballs or summon lightnin' or nothin' fancy like that, that's all all left to the Arcane Ministry. Ah was just able t' manipulate a sword and shield with mah magic is all.

Ah tell ya, eight months 'a trainin' was the hardest thing Ah'd ever done up until that point in mah life. Had this instructor, a Legate. Big unicorn by the name 'a Stonewall. Meanest son-of-a-bitch Ah'd ever seen! But Celestia as mah witness, that stallion whipped me into shape good and proper! By the end 'a that eight months, Ah was as fit and deadly as a unicorn could be!"

You've never heard of the Guard killing anyone, much less with bladed weapons. You tell him as such.

"It's true, during a time of peace, we're primarily taught t' disable, not kill. That ain't t' say we can't disable with a weapon, though. A slash at a leg or a shoulder, and they're goin' down, and stayin' down. Then once they're restrained, we can heal them back to full health. It ain't a pretty job, but it's necessary, ya know? And yeah, if we hafta put 'em down for good, we'll do it. One of the things most ponies don't never hear about."

Aegis leans in closer, glancing at the windows to make sure no one's listening.

"Did ya know that armor's magically enchanted? Once ya put it on, ya have the exact same appearance as the rest 'a the guards! White fer pegasi, grey fer unicorns. Hell of a neat trick, if Ah do say so. That way, if somepony's got a grudge against a guard -- and it does happen -- they can't track ya by yer looks! Protects yer identity and all that. Nifty, ain't it? Anyway, Ah was out on patrol with mah buddy Hoplite one day, and we were jumped by a group of criminal scumbags. Managed to subdue or kill all of 'em eventually, but not before one of 'em pulled a folding knife and stabbed me right in this here leg!" He slaps his right foreleg with a hoof, wincing slightly. That explains the limp. "Son of a bitch, he was. He got what was comin' to him, though. Spent nearly ten years in a labor camp, helpin' rebuild the very houses and farms he'd taken advantage of. Last Ah heard, he's turned into a real stand-up guy. Funny how that happens, huh?"

"So I take it that was the end of your guard career?" you ask.

"Yessir. They offered to keep me on as a librarian, but shit, Ah ain't never been one for catalogin' scrolls and what-not."

Finally finished writing, he flips the parchment around so you can read it. "Go ahead and take a look. If it looks good, just sign the line and we're in business!"

You read aloud to yourself, skimming through it. "This contract guarantees the holder...four to eight weeks to pay...in the event of failure...nothing will be owed...upon completion, all payment due in full over agreed-upon amount of time...contract cannot be renegotiated after signing, yada yada...okay, yeah, looks good." You grab the quill and dip it in ink, signing your name on the line and writing the date, along with your address. Aegis looks it over and smiles, nodding his head.

"Terrific! Ah'll get started on it tomorrow. As soon as it's done, Ah'll have one of mah sons come and get ya. And don't worry, Ah'll be sure t' tell 'em that if a lady answers, they're not t' say anything about the necklace, just that they're lookin' fer ya. Sound good?"

"Sounds real good, Aegis. Thanks again for your help, I wanted to come to the best."

"Well shoot, son, Ah'd say you've made the right choice! Now, if ya wanna hear the rest of the story, Ah'll be more than happy t' tell ya, but if you'd like t' go, Ah understand." You check your watch, seeing that it's only 5:42pm, plenty of time before you're supposed to leave with Rarity to check up on Fluttershy.

"By all means, continue, sir."

"Ya know what? Ah like yer attitude, son. Ya got a good head on yer shoulders. Gimme just a sec."

Aegis disappears around the corner, where you can hear the clinking of glass and the sound of a liquid being poured. He comes back out a few minutes later, floating a pair of ceramic mugs in the air, each of them filled to the top with froth.

"Here ya go, son! Couple 'a the finest pints of Apple Family Cider ya can get! Had this barrel in reserve for over a year now, should be nice and ready."

You're genuinely surprised by the offering, and you lift your mug in the air.

"To you, Aegis. You're a good guy."

He lifts his own and knocks it against yours.

"Ah, hell, Ah'm just an old stallion who ain't got much goin' on these days. Ah don't mind a little sharin' now and then. This here mug is to you and yer future wife. But, uh, this drink is just between us guys. Wouldn't want the missus gettin' all uppity, now would we? Mah old lady would kill me if she knew Ah kept a barrel 'a cider at work, heh heh!"

You tilt your cup back and take a drink, the fruity taste of the cider offsetting the bite of the alcohol. Best of all, it's nice and cold. It's the best damn hard cider you've ever had.

"Not too bad," you say with a nod of approval. "Not too bad at all."

"Thought ya might enjoy it. So yeah, that was the end of mah career in the Royal Guard. Got some nice benefits and pay from it, but Ah didn't wanna sit around and do nothin' all day, ya know? Fortunately for me, the gal Ah was datin' at the time was into gem cutting and jewel-smithing, so Ah asked her t' show me the ropes. Bless that girl, she's been with me ever since. It's because of her that Ah'm able t' even operate this place! Who knows? Maybe you'll say the same one day. If ya try yer hardest, and never forget why ya married her in the first place, you'll be with yer lady friend for the rest of yer life."

"I'm certainly gonna try," you respond, downing a gulp of your cider. "Her name's Rarity, by the way. Best thing to ever happen to me."

"Well, then Ah hope you and Rarity make a damn fine couple, son."

"Thanks," you say with a smile.

You hope you do too.

==========

"You alright, hon?" you ask as the two of you walk across Ponyville to Fluttershy's cottage. Street lamps cast their yellow glow on you as you pass by them, small islands of light in the dark, expansive night. Thousands of stars dot the sky over your heard, pinpoints of light against the crescent moon. By all accounts, it's a wonderful night...except for the worrying mare at your side.

"If I may be honest, darling, I don't know. There's been so many things to concern myself with lately, what with the store and Cashmere and all of that nonsense. It feels like I brought this up at an exceedingly bad time." Rarity flattens her ears in worry, her face twisting into a mask of a self-doubt. It's been obvious for most of the day that she's had Fluttershy on her mind, and it's only become worse as the hours ticked by.

"You only did what you thought was right, Rarity. Try not to worry so much, alright? Fluttershy's a good friend, and I can't think of anyone else who would be more understanding."

"That's just it. I can't help but think that I've somehow ruined that relationship we've had for so long. You remember what she said yesterday, right? She said she needed time to think about things, and that she would be by today. Yet she hasn't shown up. Perhaps I'm rushing things, but I need to know. You understand, don't you?"

You consider the situation in your head and work over the possible outcomes. They're equally good and bad.

"I understand wanting to know for sure, yeah. But ultimately this is about you and her, not me. What could I possibly say that you couldn't say better?"

"Give yourself more credit than that, darling! True, this is a personal matter, but you're part of my life now. My matters are your matters, and vice-versa. If there's something you think needs to be said, then by all means, I want you to say it. It may help her see things more clearly to have a third party providing advice, don't you think?"

It makes sense, even if you're not sure exactly what you'll say.

"I guess so. Just try and relax a little until we get there, okay? She's probably just as conflicted as you are, if not more so. Showing up as an emotional mess won't help matters."

She doesn't say anything in response, but you're sure you got the point across. You decide to leave her to her own thoughts for a while as you pass Elegant Expectations, the store front darkened and the sign reading 'closed'. Several signs sit out front or in the windows, advertising all manner of deals and offers. The store certainly looks professional, with big, cursive red letters and a set of large windows showing off her best designs. Too bad it represents potential ruin for Rarity and everything she knows.

You have a few ideas in mind for how you can repay Cashmere for her 'generous' offer, but they'll have to wait. For now, the complicated situation with Fluttershy is front and center.

After your trip to Aegis' story earlier in the day, you had a few hours to yourself. Rarity spent most of that time locked away in her work room, and you knew better than to intrude when she was in her 'inspiration mode'. It gave you time to think; think about the future, think about what marriage would entail, and how it would change your life. It would represent giving up completely on the idea of ever returning home. Even if you could return home, by some miracle or fluke...would you want to? It's been so long. People have moved on, and you've started a new life. A life you're happy with. Still, it means your old life would join the little shoebox in the bottom drawer, little mementos of things that will become increasingly distant and forgotten.

No one ever said it would be easy.

More than marriage, you thought about Rarity and Fluttershy, and the head-achingly complex situation you've found yourself in between them. Rarity wants you to show the same love and affection to Fluttershy that you show to her, but it doesn't feel like it'll be that easy. Fluttershy is just your friend. Sure, she's cute as ponies go (and diabetes-level adorable), but someone -- or rather, somepony -- who could potentially be sharing your bed? It's a lot to think about, even with Rarity's reassurances.

You pass the town hall, Sugarcube Corner, and several housing areas without a word between you. At the risk of startling her, you gently run a hand through her mane. She looks up at you and smiles.

"I'm alright, darling. I promise. I'm simply eager to resolve this situation, one way or another. But thank you."

It's several more minutes until you're on the outskirts of Ponyville. A grass-covered cottage sits on a small hill just up the road, light shining from several windows. Out front lies a multi-tiered bird feeder and several prefabricated lairs for small animals. Fluttershy's house. Your eyes strain to adjust to the lower light out this far from the town, and you're able to make out the small, arched bridge that crosses a stream.

"There she is," Rarity says quietly, pointing a hoof. A small, shadowed figure sits on the edge of the bridge, hind legs dangling over the side. You bend down to Rarity's height and brush a curl of hair from her eye.

"Are you sure you're ready, baby? If you're having second thoughts we can still go back."

She grasps your hand and nods solemnly, inhaling deeply as she does so.

"I'm ready, darling. Come what may, I'm ready."

You stand back up and slowly walk the rest of the way to the bridge, trying not to alarm Fluttershy. She turns to look at you and gives you a light, but brief smile, before turning back to stare into the water. Rarity walks over first and stands beside her friend. You can hear them quietly talking, but can't make out the words.

Rarity sits down beside Fluttershy in the same position, fidgeting to get comfortable on the stone surface. You stay a short distance away, letting them have their privacy. For a time they say nothing else. You can only imagine what's going through their heads right now.

You see Rarity say something and place a hoof on Fluttershy's leg. She doesn't move it, which you take a good sign.

"Oh, um, you don't have to stand there," Fluttershy says as she turns to face you, "You can come sit with us. It's okay."

You make your way to the small bridge and sit down on the other side of Fluttershy, letting your legs hang over the side. The sound of the babbling stream and chirping crickets, and the cool smell of the water as it flows beneath you, reminds you of being a kid; it's easy to see why Fluttershy likes it here. It's a very peaceful place.

"How are you, Fluttershy?" you ask with a comforting smile.

"I'm...okay. Thank you," she replies, glancing down at the water.

"We were worried about you, darling." Rarity flicks a small pebble off the bridge with her hoof. "Last night, after...well, after the events that led to our current situation, you said you would be by at some point. When you didn't show up I became concerned for your well-being. We both did."

"I can watch after myself, Rarity. It's okay. I made it home fine."

"Your mental well-being, Fluttershy. I...I'm sorry I dropped this revelation on you so quickly. Sincerely, I am."

Fluttershy opens her mouth to say something in return, but closes it again without speaking. Maybe she just wants to listen for now.

Rarity continues, "When I was sitting on that couch with the both of you, I felt so incredibly overjoyed. Even through the stress of the day, the absolute exhaustion, everything at that moment simply felt...right. I have a wonderful man who is the love of my life, but you, Fluttershy...you're my dearest friend. Over the years I've grown to see you not only as a confidant, but as somepony I wanted to express my feelings for. And when I felt those tears fall on my shoulder, I just knew I had to comfort you in some way. Some way that meant more than a simple hug and friendly reassurances. I just...goodness, how do I say this..."

Fluttershy turns her head to face Rarity, her bouncy pink mane sliding over her shoulder.

"...I wanted you to know what it was like to have somepony care for you. Not just as a friend, but deeper than that. You are an absolutely wonderful mare, Fluttershy. You're caring and smart and sensitive and, might I add, very pretty." Fluttershy smiles slightly at the compliment. "Anypony would be lucky to have you, darling! That's why it hurts me so to see you suffering like this. You deserve to have someone in your life who loves you and cares about you, who wants to be with you because of who you are. All you need is a little self-confidence."

You hear Fluttershy sniff back a tear. Maybe it's time you added your thoughts.

"You know, Fluttershy," you say as you take a small stone and skip it across the water, "I used to be in a position very similar to yours, not long ago. Before I joined up with our military, I had all of the people I knew when I was growing up suddenly start, well...growing up. I watched as my friends all started getting married, having kids, making lives of their own. And all I could do was sit back and wish it would happen to me. I tried, I really did. Had a few relationships, but they were for the wrong reasons." The scenes of multiple, painful breakups play through your head.

"It was desperation. I needed to feel needed by someone, you know? But none of those girls really cared about me in the end. But Rarity and I? We care about you, Fluttershy. Hell, Rarity's known you since you were both teenagers. She knows the pony that you are, deep down, and she thinks that pony is wonderful. You should hear her talk about you sometimes." You smile and laugh softly, hoping it'll catch on. Fluttershy smiles a little brighter, but it quickly fades back to an unsure expression.

"I've only known you for, what, a year and a half? A little less than that? But in that time, you've really grown on me. You're not boisterous like Dash, or insanely hyperactive like Pinkie. You're just quiet and thoughtful, and I've never heard you say a single hurtful thing to anyone you care about. You've got a good heart."

"Thank you," she says quietly, barely above a whisper. You offer your open palm and she gradually places her foreleg in it. You squeeze it gently as she lets out a deep breath.

"I know this is a lot to think about, darling. We're simply trying to put your mind at ease. What he said is absolutely true -- we care deeply about you. I care about you. When we were talking about this earlier, I told my darling that I wanted you to know the same feelings we know for each other. That sense of...walking on clouds when you see them for the first time after they've come home, that tugging at your heart strings when you're lying beside them, just enjoying each others' company. The feeling of complete and total peace when you're lost in that moment of intimacy, how the world just seems to vanish around you. All of those emotions, those feelings, are so wonderful. It's those things we want to share with you, Fluttershy. You deserve to know what those things are like. I want you to know what it's like. It's simply...serenity."

"I...I do want to know those things, Rarity. I'm just scared..."

"Oh, darling, come here." Rarity embraces Fluttershy and rocks her gently, placing her head on Fluttershy's shoulder. "You've nothing to be fearful of. I care deeply about you, and I always have. I would never force you to do anything you don't want to do, that's why this decision is entirely up to you. If you're not comfortable with us -- with me -- telling you these things, then we would not hold it against you for a single second. You will always be my dearest friend, no matter what. I love you, Fluttershy."

Rarity slowly pulls away and puts her hoof up with a smile. Fluttershy touches it with her own hoof and laughs softly, maybe feeling a little more reassured. She turns back so that she's staring over the water and brushes a length of hair from her face.

"Last night, when you, um...kissed me...I didn't really know what to feel, Rarity. I was scared and nervous and unsure and all those things, but part of me felt...happy. That's why I didn't pull away or ask you to stop, or anything like that. Even though it was a very big surprise, it felt like things were okay. I trust the both of you, more than you know. You're my best friends. And now asking me to be more than best friends...and, um, it's taken me a long time and a lot of thinking, but...I think I'm okay with that."

Rarity gasps sharply, obviously relieved.

"You are? Are you absolutely sure, darling? I don't want there to be any doubt in your mind."

"I'm...I'm sure, Rarity. I can't think of anypony else I'd want to share it with. It's going to take some getting used to, but I want to do this. You're both so very sweet, I know you'll be wonderful to be around. And, um, I can help in the store, too. If that's alright, that is."

"Of course it's alright, darling! Oh you have no idea how relieved I am to hear that! I swear to Celestia, I've been spending every waking moment worrying about it. I am so happy right now!" Rarity lets out a high-pitched squee of excitement and wraps Fluttershy in a hug, squeezing her tight. Maybe a little too tight.

"Um...Rarity...can't breathe..."

"Wha? Oh, heh heh, of course. Silly me! You'll have to excuse me, I'm just a little excited about it, that's all."

Fluttershy turns to you and gives you a hug with a big smile.

"See? That's the look of the Fluttershy I know. Don't you worry, I promise I'll treat you with every bit of respect and compassion as I do for Rarity. I'm glad you're okay with it, poor Rarity was worrying herself sick."

"Indeed, darling. I was quite the mess. Oh, but Fluttershy, what about the animals you watch over? I'd completely forgotten about them."

"Oh, don't worry, Rarity. I may be staying with you but I'll still be here for part of the day. Angel may be a hoof full, but deep down he's a good bunny. He knows how to take care of the smaller animals, like the birds and squirrels. If there's anything bigger I can always take care of it. I can be here part of the time, and at the Boutique part of the time. It's really not a problem."

"Are you sure? I know a lot of them rely on you."

"Mmhmm. Angel's a big boy, he's been helping out a lot lately. I told him I might be moving in with you for a little while, but, um, I didn't tell him why, of course. He was fussy about it for a while, but eventually he came around. He'll be okay."

The three of you stand back up, brushing the dust off your pants (or coats).

"I have some things packed in my saddlebags, if you give me just a minute I'll be right back out, okay?"

"Take your time, darling. There's no rush."

Fluttershy smiles bashfully and walks back to her cottage, closing the door behind her. Rarity is practically beaming, a mix of relief and joy across her face

"Thank you, baby! I was hoping you would add something! Ooooh, I'm so happy this all worked out!" She tackles you to the ground with a pounce and starts kissing all over your face with happy giggles, then gives you a long, deep kiss as she presses herself into you. "We'll see how this works out, okay? I know this wasn't an easy thing to accept, but thank you for trusting me on this. I love you, darling."

"Of course, honey. I love you too. We'll just take this one step at a time. But are we...are we really sure this is for the best? I know it's kinda late to second-guess things, but..."

You stand up and brush yourself off -- again

"Honestly? I'm sincerely hoping so. The last thing I want to do is toss Fluttershy into this without letting her think things through. I know it's been on her mind since last night, but it's always a concern. Really, darling, we've talked it through quite a bit, you and I. If you have any further concerns, please, you must let me know."

"I think this is all happening too fast, Rarity," you tell her, watching as Fluttershy's shadow plays against the windows. "I mean, it's been one day since you expressed your feelings for her, and now she's moving in with us? I thought you would have at least told me before we invite someone else into our home."

"Darling, this is Fluttershy we're talking about. Really, what is there to be concerned about?"

"Because that's our home, Rarity. I know you're excited that she's decided to do this, but you could have warned me or something. I can't help but feel like this is going make things just...so much more complicated. God, I don't know if I'm ready to potentially share a bed with her."

"If you're concerned about her becoming the center of my attention, or if this is some sort of...of...jealousy issue, then you should know that you're still first and foremost in my mind. I'm not going to abandon you, dear! You saw how scared she was, didn't you? How relieved she looked just now? I'm telling you, this is a change for the better. Please, darling. Sweetie. Trust me on this. Okay?"

You let out a deep sigh and tap your foot on the ground while she waits for an answer.

"Okay. I'll give this a chance, but you have to promise me we'll still be like we were before. I don't want to lose any time with you, hon. That's really what I'm most concerned about."

She clutches your hand between her hooves and gives you a reassuring smile.

"I promise. Things will be just like they've always been. We'll just have somepony else around sometimes, that's all. Do it for me? Goodness, what am I saying? Do it for Fluttershy. Poor girl needs some comfort right now."

Fluttershy walks back out, a pair of saddlebags around her back.

"Um, I wasn't sure what all I needed to bring, so I brought a little of everything. I can always come back tomorrow to get a few things."

"Don't you worry one bit, darling, we've got everything you'll need. You bring what you like."

Fluttershy nods and gives Rarity a smile, and the three of you start the long walk back to the Boutique.

"To be honest, darling, I must admit to being somewhat nervous about this whole situation," Rarity speaks up as you pass Town Hall. "When we were on our way here, I was doing a lot of thinking about our current state of affairs."

"If you were nervous, Rarity, you should have seen me! I spent most of the day in my room..."

You listen to Fluttershy and Rarity talk and laugh back and forth, the formerly conflicted air between them now finally cleared up. It's good to hear Rarity sounding happy again. You put a smile on your face, and hope it hides the uncertainty lurking just below the surface.

==========

"You can stay in Sweetie Belle's room if you like, Fluttershy," Rarity says as you walk up the stairs to the second floor of the Boutique. "She hasn't been around lately, poor thing has had quite the busy little life with after-school activities and friends. It's a comfortable bed, you should have no trouble falling asleep."

"Thank you, Rarity. I'm sure I'll be fine."

"You're part of the family now, so if you ever feel the need to make something to eat, or you want to grab yourself a drink, don't hesitate to do so. We usually have coffee and breakfast in the morning, but we have tea if that's more your style. Oh, and there's a guest restroom near our door." Rarity stops in the doorway and puts a foreleg over Fluttershy's neck. "I know this will take some getting used to, darling, but please, don't feel like you ever have to hesitate to ask us anything. We want you to be comfortable and happy here. Okay?"

"Okay. I think I'm going to put away my things and get some sleep, if you don't mind. It's been kind of an exhausting day..."

"I know, Fluttershy, I feel the same way. But at least we got that out of the way, right? Now, I shan't keep you any longer, I'm sure you'd rather get oriented than listen to me blather on for another ten minutes."

"Oh, no, it's okay! I don't mind if you, um...blather."

Rarity laughs softly and kisses Fluttershy's cheek.

"Relax, darling. It was a joke." Fluttershy blushes under her light yellow coat and smiles nervously. "Still the same Fluttershy I've known and loved for years. You'll be just fine, dear. If you need anything, anything at all, feel free to ask. What's ours is yours."

You bend down and give Fluttershy a hug and a kiss on her forehead. "Have a good night, Fluttershy. We'll see you in the morning."

You quietly shut the door as Rarity walks out, giving Fluttershy some privacy. Rarity puts a hoof around your waist as you walk to your bedroom, a contented smile on her face.

"That went better than I hoped it would. Goodness, it feels like I've had a great weight lifted from my shoulders! The relief is palpable, I can assure you of that."

"I can tell."

Rarity perks up at your short response, picking up on your tone.

"Is something the matter, dear? You're awfully quiet."

You pull Rarity aside to her working room and lower your voice.

"Fluttershy is living with us now, right? But how long until...you know...she wants to join us?"

"I'd say she's already joined us if she's living here, wouldn't you?"

"You know what I mean, hon. I know you do."

"Well, I couldn't really say, darling. I do feel that it's inevitable, but I don't understand your continued apprehension at such an idea. I love Fluttershy like--"

"That's just it, Rarity. I don't love Fluttershy like I do you. I love her as a friend, yeah, but if you're asking me to be put in a situation where I'm going to end up making love to her...I don't know. Something about that doesn't feel right. I'm not completely against the idea, but I'm not entirely for it, either. It feels like...cheating."

Rarity raises up on her hind legs so she's closer to your full height, pressing her hooves against your stomach.

"Please, darling, it's not cheating if it's something we've agreed upon! When we were first discussing this situation, you asked me a similar question, and I told you: This is something that I feel Fluttershy has been missing, a sense of intimacy and love. That, my love, is what we would be communicating to her. I don't want you to think that it's 'cheating' for one single second, okay? If -- when -- the time comes that we're taken by our baser urges, all of us...you don't have to feel like it's something wrong. You have my utmost confidence and permission. I wouldn't be putting you in this position in the first place if I didn't think our love could stand the test. Do you understand?"

You nod your head slowly, considering her words. It's still an idea you can't be entirely sure of, but you feel a little more comfortable with the whole situation. A little.

"Alright, hon. Let's just...take this slowly, okay?"

"Of course, darling. You have my word. Now, I believe we've discussed this enough. Shall we go?"

You close the bedroom door behind you as you step out of the hallway, feeling like you're really shutting the door on the events of the entire day, and start stripping out of your clothes, simply letting them fall to the floor. It's a huge relief to be alone with her again, with nothing clouding your minds. Your mood improves drastically as she struts past you with a look over her shoulder. Rarity sits on the edge of the bed and raises an eyebrow at you.

"Oooh, slower, darling. Hmmhmm."

"Well, if you insist," you reply with a smile. You start taking off your clothes slower...much, much slower. Comically slower. Rarity gives an exasperated sigh and tosses your shirt back in your face.

"Always the comedian," she says with a laugh. "Come now, darling, the night is young, but I shan't wait forever!" She strikes a seductive pose and eyes you up and down as you undress, biting her lip in anticipation. Slowly, you remove your last piece of clothing -- your worn boxers -- with a smile. She gasps in mock surprise. "Oh, my, you don't take much convincing, do you? Now what ever shall we do about that?"

You climb onto the bed and pull her against you, feeling her wonderfully soft coat and skin against your own.

"I've got a few ideas," you answer with a wry grin.

==========

Something wakes you from your sleep, a quiet sound of hooves on the bare floor. You groggily look at the alarm clock, the glowing hands reading just past one in the morning. You blink several times to clear the haze from your vision, lifting your head to look at the door. It's partially open, with a mare's head poking through. She sees you rise up to see what the sound was, and slinks back behind the door.

"Oh, um, I'm sorry, I didn't mean to wake you. It's just that, well...I don't really like sleeping alone. But I can go back if you need me to..."

You rub your eyes with your hand and shield your eyes from the light coming from the hallway.

"No, no, that's fine, Fluttershy," you say in response. "There's plenty of room. Come on."

Fluttershy opens the door a little more, just enough to squeeze through, and shuts it behind her. She cautiously makes her way to the bed, being careful to avoid your clothes lying on the floor. The soft clops of her hooves wakes up Rarity, who sits up with a confused look on her face.

"Wha? Did you say something, darling? I'm not...what time is it..." She rubs her eyes and notices Fluttershy standing at the foot of the bed. "Oh, Fluttershy. Are you alright, dear?"

"Um, I was hoping I could sleep with you two. I don't really like being alone at night. I'm kind of...scared of the dark."

Rarity clicks her tongue and smiles despite the groggy feelings.

"Of course you can sleep with us, darling. Come on, it's a large bed, we'll make some room."

You take one of your pillows and slide it over next to Rarity's, fluffing it up so that it's comfortable. Fluttershy climbs up on the bed and settles down between you, lying on her back. You can feel the soft feathers of her folded wings against your chest as you pull up the sheets and blankets for her.

"Comfy?" you ask her.

"I am, thank you. It's a very nice bed."

Rarity nuzzles her cheek and smiles warmly.

"You're welcome to sleep with us from now on if you like, darling. I'm quite happy you're here."

From now on? Like...every night, from now on? There are some nights...a lot of nights...where you can't imagine having someone else in the room with you. All of those times where you spend long hours, into the early morning, being intimate with Rarity, with all of her playful little outfits and toys, or just sharing some drinks and reminiscing about the past. Those are very private things. To think they may be gone...

"Thank you, Rarity. I would have come in earlier but, um...I didn't want to interrupt."

Oh. Rarity must have been more...enthusiastic...than you thought. Enough to let it be known what you were doing, apparently. You can't see her well enough to be sure, but you'd bet your bottom bit that Rarity's blushing right now.

"Don't you worry about that, dear. We're all adults here. If my darling and I are taken by our, ah, urges, there's always means of attaining privacy. You're not getting in the way of anything by wanting to stay in our bed, I assure you." You're not so sure.

Rarity runs a hoof through Fluttershy's long hair. You can feel it against your legs and your stomach, and it's not an unpleasant sensation. It's just as soft as Rarity's, maybe even more so.

It's a very soothing feel, and you start drifting off quickly. Fluttershy's voice brings you back from the brink of sleep.

"Rarity..."

"Hmm?"

"When we were talking earlier, you said something that I never said in return. So, um, I just wanted to fix that."

"What's that, darling?"

"I...I love you too."

You raise yourself up on one arm to see better. Rarity smiles warmly and leans in closer to her long-time friend, and gently, lovingly, kisses her. Fluttershy takes a few seconds to respond, but finally gives in and returns the kiss, running a hoof over the back of Rarity's head. It lingers for a moment, then they both pull back and smile, rubbing their noses together.

"That was...nice," Fluttershy says with in her soft, bashful voice.

"I'm glad you thought so, darling," Rarity replies. "I've been waiting to do that for a very long time. It's good to have you with us." Fluttershy raises a foreleg and wipes her eyes.

"I can't explain it, but I just feel so...happy. Right here, with the both of you. It feels...right." She turns to face you and puts a hoof on your arm, which you grasp in your free hand. "Really, you've both shown me so much kindness, more than I deserve. I don't think I'd want to be anywhere else right now."

You let go of her hoof and run your fingers through her pink hair, feeling it part between your fingers.

"I think you deserve it, Fluttershy. In the time I've known you, I've seen the wonderful woman you are, and I feel lucky to know you. We said we'd make you feel welcome and wanted, and we meant it. You're part of our lives now, in a much bigger way. I promise you, from the bottom of my heart, that I'm going to do everything I can to make you feel the same way." It sounded good, at least. You're still apprehensive about the situation as a whole, but feeling her next to you eases some of the tension. It reminds you a lot of when you were first with Rarity, down to the feel of her hair.

Fluttershy nuzzles your cheek with a 'thank you'. You look over at Rarity and she nods with a warm smile, mouthing 'go on'. You give her a questioning eyebrow and she rolls her eyes, then motions a kiss.

You run your hand over Fluttershy's cheek and cradle her head, staring into her big, teal eyes. Then, slowly, you lean down and press your lips against hers.

You're kissing Fluttershy, your mind tells you. And not just a peck on the cheek. You're actually kissing her. It feels weird to be kissing someone who isn't Rarity, but...it's nice. Very nice. It doesn't feel wrong in the least. You close your eyes and slide a hand under her back, brushing her wings with your fingers.

She returns your kiss gently, inhaling deeply as you push just a tiny bit harder. She wraps a foreleg around your head and pulls you every so slightly. She's amazingly loving and warm, even with just a simple kiss. Somewhere in the back of your mind, your body is screaming at you to push forward, to embrace her passionately and feel her body against yours.

Somewhat regretfully, you decide to simply pull back, pulling at her bottom lip as you do. She giggles softly and buries her face in her hooves.

"Oh, my...you're very good at that."

You laugh and kiss her cheek, wrapping an arm around her waist as you rest your head against her shoulder.

"Thank you," you laugh quietly in return, "you're pretty good yourself."

"That was, um, the first time I've done that...it was very nice."

Rarity places a foreleg around Fluttershy's chest and lays her head against her other shoulder, kissing it once.

"You see, Fluttershy? We said we would make you feel the same love and compassion we feel."

"I think I like it, Rarity. It was very pleasant...thank you again, ever so much."

"Of course, darling. Now, you just relax and close your eyes. We're right here with you."

You apprehension, at least for today, has melted away. You've become more than a friend to her; you're a source of comfort now. Maybe Rarity was right, and you were just being stubborn for no good reason. Maybe things will work out just fine.

You clasp Rarity's hoof in your hand, your joined limbs resting gently on Fluttershy's warm, soft chest. She smiles at you and closes her eyes, and you fall back into a peaceful sleep.