“We were supposed to reach Ponyville before the night falls, right?” Shining eyed the dimming sky with question, hoping his fear of sleeping outside would soon be banished by a town rising over the horizon.

“Let me look,” Cadence responded, pulling their source of information from her yellow saddlebags. “It seems to give us a few days to get to Ponyville on foot, there’s even a temporary structure spell for when we have to sleep outside.”

“She truly planned for everything, didn’t she?”

Ignoring Shining’s sarcastic comment, Cadence examined the surrounding scenery for a place to sleep. A wide expanse of wild grass surrounded the dirt trail on either side. A light forest on their right, while on the left the plains stretched into hills until the horizon.

“Why don’t we look for a place to sleep?” Cadence suggested, already diverting into the knee high grass, heading for the cover of trees.

One look at the ever fading sun decided for Shining, quickly following behind. Pulling on his limited knowledge of the world outside Canterlot’s walls, he scanned the ground beneath, searching for burnable wood. The light forest provided an ample windbreak, the grass on its floor stunted in growth by the trees above.

“Now let me try this spell.” Concentrating her spark, Cadence projected a light blue construct from her horn. The transparent tepee tent formed fell to the ground upon the spell’s completion, the entrance forcing Cadence to duck as she entered.

“It’s a little small don’t you think?” Shining commented having caught up with Cadence, a bundle of sticks held in his magic.

A playful expression danced across Cadence’s face, a sultry smile spreading her lips. “That just means we have to cuddle extra close tonight.”

Sensing the mood, Shining mirrored Cadence’s face with much less success. “I think there’ll be a bit more than just cuddling.” On instinct, he leaned into her, their lips sharing a kiss.

Cadence pulled away, repressing her arousal. “We really should ready the campsite first though.”

Agreeing, Shining allowed a brief nod before dumping the sticks onto the grass. He arranged the sticks just like he remembered his father doing, a pyramid with each dry branch supporting its comrades. Memories of their camping trip in the park blossomed in his mind momentarily.

It had been some time ago, before Twilight had been born. Shining was still a young colt, eager to spend time with his father. It had been a night of campfire stories, jokes, and roasting all kinds of food. The recollection brought a warmth to Shining’s heart and a small smile to his lips.

The wood caught aflame easily, a spark of Shining’s magic seeing to that. Much to his disappointment and Cadence’s amusement the sticks burnt a little too easily, crumbling to cinders within minutes.

“Why don’t we just use a spell instead?” Cadence suggested, a magical mattress already spread inside the tent. “There seems to be magic in here for everything.”

“I guess, but at least let me cast it. I don’t want to be completely useless.” The prospect of Shining being useless lifted the corners of Cadence’s mouth. She held the itinerary before him, surrounded in blue, allowing him to grasp it in his hooves.

“There,” Shining announced, an ethereal flame now burning over the pile of ashes. “Now lets have something to eat, I’m starving.” His stomach rumbled to punctuate the point.

Cadence shrugged her saddlebags from her withers, allowing the lightly packed fabric to fall to the grass. “Now do you want, nuts or fruit?” The pair had stopped by a cafe before they left, Shining’s stomach insisted. The interruption was fortunate however, it allowed them to purchase some much needed supplies of food.

“We did get peanuts right?” Saliva pooled in Shining’s mouth at the thought of the food, a regular craving that was impossible to fulfil at home with his mother’s allergy.

“Mmmmhmm,” A paper bag rustled in time with the murmur of assent. Cadence tossed the packaged nuts towards drooling Shining. “Make sure you save some for me, last time you conveniently forgot I was there.”

Ignoring the sounds of Shining’s frantic munching, Cadence tested the bed, pressing her hoof against the clear blue mattress. To her surprise it gave way easily, the texture similar to that of cotton.

She allowed herself to fall forward, the springy glow catching her with ease. A yawn pushed between her lips as she rolled over, allowing her tired muscles to relax. The ethereal roof allowed her view of the sky above, orange gold meeting deep blue as the sun set.

“Do you still want some?”

Shining’s voice brought a touch of annoyance to Cadence, the question pulling her from the mattress’s relaxing grasp, forcing her to sit. “If there’s still any left,” She teased, another yawn distorting her words.

“Catch.” Shining tossed the paper bag toward the tent, his poor aim corrected by Cadence’s magic, guiding the nuts towards her. Its contents surprised her, Shining had managed to restrain himself this time, leaving almost two-thirds.

“Thank you for thinking this time.” A nut hovered from the bag surrounded in light-blue, roasted and speckled with salt, to splinter between Cadence’s jaws with a crunch, her thirst highlighted by the dry food.

Shining’s lips parted in a guilty smile, legs carrying him closer to the tent. “I was extra careful after last time, I don’t know what happened. One minute there was plenty of ice cream left and then a mouthful later it was all gone.”

Cadence rolled her eyes in memory, Shining’s appetite more entertaining than irritating. “Don’t worry about it,” She said, another peanut crunching in her mouth. “I’m only teasing when I mention it. You’re a growing colt, you need a lot of food.”

At the mention of food Shining’s stomach rumbled, spilling a laugh from Cadence. “See.” She poked at his belly, evoking another sound. “I bought something else just incase you got this hungry.”

Cadence’s saddlebags near the ghostly fire wiggled with blue, another paper package floating from inside. “Now don’t eat all of this.” With a crinkle she peeled the packaging from the rectangular surprise, revealing brown underneath.

“Is that chocolate?” Shining’s eyes popped from their sockets at the sight of the sugary treat, another pool of saliva forming in his mouth.

“Yes.” Cadence nodded as she snapped a sizable chunk from the bar, levitating it before Shining’s waiting mouth. “But this is all you’re having tonight, your parents don’t allow you to have much this for a reason.”

“That was one time when I was a colt.” Protests spewed from Shining’s mouth as he recalled the brown torrent that had once done the same. He had stumbled into his mother’s storeroom when he was younger, a cupboard designated for chocolate catching his eye.

His first taste of the delectable treat was the trigger his stomach needed, sending him into an eating frenzy. His father had found him unconscious, lying in a pool of chocolaty vomit. The food storeroom had remained locked from that day forth, and Shining’s craving for chocolate barely sated by the portions his parents allowed him as a treats.

“You’re still a colt now,” Cadence insisted, allowing Shining to take the chunk in his own blue glow. “And I couldn’t have you gorging yourself to death on the first day of our journey, I need your protection.”

Looking over the lump of brown hovering before his mouth, Shining found a cheeky smile plastered across Cadence’s face, her eyes glinting in the fake firelight. “Can we wait till I’ve finished this.” Knowing her want, Shining attempted a nervous smile, hoping her convince Cadence.

“I see where your true love lies,” Cadence replied, half-laughing. “Finish your food, I’ll relax a little.” Her back begging to be stretched, Cadence fulfilled its request, covering the small mattress with her body.

A response muffled by Shining’s stuffed mouth was barely heard by Cadence, her tired mind already drifting. The ethereal bedding somehow soothed her aches, cradling her in comfort.

“Can you move over a little?” Shining’s voice passed right through Cadence’s blank mind, relaxation consuming her thoughts. A push of his hoof against her side brought her back, travel pains flooding back into her body as Cadence propped herself up.

“Sorry, this mattress is just so comfortable,” Cadence apologised, glad to find Shining’s face holding a forgiving smile. “Do you wish to join me?” The spark jumped back into her eyes, her lips tempting Shining to kiss them.

Taking the bait, Shining leant forward, placing his hooves on either side of Cadence, bringing their snouts together. The magic bed absorbed the extra weight with ease, barely giving an inch. Their lips locked, mouths combining to form a red, wet cavern for their tongues to dance inside.

Cadence moaned as they played, anticipation for the coming events building inside her stomach. She allowed Shining to press her backwards, their bodies close against each other as they shared the other’s breath, their chests rising and falling in unison.

Lips smacked softly as Shining pulled away, panting. “Don’t you think this tent is a little small? There’s barely enough space for us to lie together.” To demonstrate the lack of space, Shining made to stand, expecting his head to collide against the ghostly roof. To his surprise he stood freely, the tent growing on demand.

“Looks like we have all the room we could ask for.” Cadence rolled onto her stomach, extending a hoof towards the tent’s rear wall, watching it expand. The pair pushed against the other sides, giving them enough room to fit ten ponies.

The space sized to their liking, the pair returned to the mattress, the blue rectangle still small. “Maybe we can stretch this too?” Shining suggested, pulling at one of the corners to confirm his suspicions. The bedding showing similar properties to the tent, the pair returned to work, covering the exposed grass underneath the ethereal teepee with magical mattress.

The stage set, Cadence captured Shining’s eyes with a seductive look, reminding his body of its desires. Her teeth captured a pink lip as she watched Shining cross the makeshift room, his patchy white and pink length noticeable between his legs.

Their lips met again, Shining’s kiss softer this time, warming Cadence for what was to come. Eagerness dripping down her thigh, Cadence turned, displaying her rear to Shining. She lifted her pink and yellow tail, revealing her glistening pink lips.

Wanting to take things slowly, Shining danced around Cadence’s winking prize with kisses, much to her irritation. Moaning softly, Cadence pressed her hips towards him, body begging to be relieved.

Shining accepted his partners need, mounting her gently, making sure not to lean too much of his weight against her. Their organs met as he shuffled forward, the tip of his member slipping against her wet lips. Adjusting his aim, Shining thrusted forward, feeling Cadence moan beneath him.

Pushing further inside, Shining allowed her to loosen around him before moving onward, careful not to cause pain. The touch of his hips against her rear sent a shiver through Cadence’s body, the feeling of being filled completely overloading her mind with pleasure. Shining paused fully inside, the feeling of his lover squeezing against his shaft filling his crotch with tingling.

“Are you comfortable my princess?” Shining’s question brought a small smile to Cadence’s lips, his pet names still something of a joke to her.

“Mmmm,” She moaned in response, tightening her inner muscles against his length, begging for Shining’s thrusts.

Breathing in deep, Shining retreated, sliding from Cadence’s slick entrance till only his tip rested inside, holding her open.

In and out Shining moved, each thrust building the heat inside his groin, the feeling of release growing. Knowing Cadence’s capacity for lust was larger than his own, Shining restrained the muscles between his hips, holding his pleasure at bay.

Cadence’s moans built in pitch and pace, the wordless murmuring flowing from her lips fading into soft groans at each of Shining’s movements. The repetitive filling and emptying of her body driving her over the edge, the knowledge that her greatest love was enjoying the moment as much as she aiding in her arousal.

Feeling the pressure inside reaching its peak, Cadence sucked a breath between her teeth, stopping her instinctual moans for a moment. “I’m getting close Shining,” She whispered the words chased from her mouth by a high-pitched moan.

At the warning Shining relaxed the muscles in his groin, allowing his body to take it’s natural path, his shaft clenching for release. “Are you sure it’s okay for me to finish inside?” Over that last few months Cadence had assured him that alicorns were unable to be impregnated by regular ponies. The prospect of accidental children still put Shining on edge.

“Mmmmhmmm!” Cadence cried in confirmation and pleasure, her body reaching its limit, driving her inner muscles into a spasm.

The rapid twitching around his length stimulated Shining’s member into releasing, his muscles propelling white seed down his shaft, filling Cadence with the warm liquid. The pulsing continued for some time, Shining’s load leaking down her legs as it overflowed.

Pulling himself from Cadence, Shining allowed his body to collapse onto the ethereal mattress below, post coital tiredness overcoming his muscles, willing him to sleep.

Cadence’s soft lips against his as she lowered herself beside him kept his conscious active. “There’s something magical about being with you out under the stars, it almost feels as if this is the way it’s supposed to be.” She rolled onto her back, taking in the twilight above, the first stars peeking out from the blanket of black.

“Mmmm,” Shining murmured, shifting his body to share the view. The stars had never been much of an interest to him, simply pretty lights, nothing special. But the affinity his sister and Cadence seemed to feel towards them helped sway his opinion of them. The specks of white and red and blue evoking memories of his most treasured ponies.

Watching the stars slowly wink into view weighed on Shining’s eyelids, the fight to keep them open growing harder and harder. “Cadence?” Unable to keep himself awake alone, Shining turned onto his side, an already sleeping Cadence filling his view.

The beauty of his slumbering princess brought a smile to Shining’s lips. Gently wedging his hooves underneath Cadence, he rolled her into a more comfortable sleeping position, on her belly with pink legs tucked underneath.

Adopting the same position himself, Shining allowed his eyelids to droop once more, the darkness of sleep flooding his consciousness.

“Come one Shining, wake up.”

Shining smiled at the sound of Cadence’s voice, another morning opening his eyes to her beautiful face, albeit somewhat ruined by her glare. The morning sun shocked his eyes at first, not accustomed to such a bright light so early in the day.

“We’re beside the road aren’t we,” Shining said, his pupils retreating behind their shields of white skin. “That wasn’t all just a terrible dream.”

A laugh bubbled from Cadence’s lips at the notion, the crisp morning air livening her. “No it wasn’t, now get up. It’d be nice to reach Ponyville by tonight.”

Packing up their small camp proved simple, the ghostly tent, fire and mattress dissipating on will, leaving only a few scattered nuts as a sign of their stay. The easy dirt road continued down the side of Mount Canterlot, zig-zagging across its face.

At the mountain’s base the path flattened out into plains of green grass stretching until the horizon, small bunches of trees dotting the landscape. The small speck of buildings ahead slowly grew as the day wore on, as if it was coming out to meet them.

Some time before noon Shining’s stomach called for rest, their remaining food disappearing down his gullet, much to Cadence’s entertainment.

A few animals accompanied them along the flat walk, a sizable flock of sparrows casting a shadow, a lonely bunny playing in the nearby grass, another pony heading the other way, his creaking cart laden with apples red and gold.

“Finally.” A groan escaped Shining’s lips as his hooves struck cobbled stone, the main roadway of Ponyville greeting the pair. “Now let’s get something to eat, I’m starving.” Scanning the nearby buildings for an eatery, a brightly colored dessert caught Shining’s eye.

Noticing the building also, Cadence rolled her eyes. “As long as you don’t eat too much Shining, and no chocolate.” Ignoring his groans she continued toward the store, her body craving someplace to rest and something to eat as well.

Pushing open the door revealed a similarly colorful interior, a lanky yellow stallion in rollerskates sailing between the tables, serving treats to waiting customers. The plastic tray holding sweets now empty, he greeted Shining and Cadence. “Welcome to Sugarcube Corner, would the two of you want anything to eat?” His yellow hoof directed their eyes toward the display of treats.

Sizing up the array of delicious looking food, Shining’s eyes couldn’t decide which to choose. His gaze settled on one colorful sweet before been drawn to another, the cycle continuing infinitely. “How many can I have?”

“Just one,” Cadence answered, her voice stern. “I’ll have the pink iced cupcake please.” The young stallion spun on his skates at her request, his bouncy orange mane dancing freely as he stopped behind the counter.

Cadence’s cake atop his tray, the serving pony looked to Shining. “And what would you like sir?”

Looking away from the chocolate section, Shining’s eyes rested on a banoffee pie, hoping Cadence would allow the barest hint of chocolate sprinkles covering the cream. “Can I have that caramel pie with cream on top?”

“The banoffee pie?” The stallion questioned, a yellow hoof pointing out the aforementioned treat. On Shining’s nod he placed the treat on his tray alongside Cadence’s. “Now would you like this to go or eat here?”

“To go please.” Cadence spoke before Shining’s lips could even form a word, wanting to put as much distance between her and the tempting food as soon as possible.

Brown paper bags crinkled as they were stuffed full and folded shut, the yellow stallion handing them to Cadence. “Have a good evening.” The farewell saw them out, the mention of time drawing Cadence’s eyes to the sky. Overhead the first hints of orange were staining the blue sky, the air growing noticeably colder.

“Why didn’t we just stay inside?”

Stuffing the treats inside her saddlebags, Cadence’s legs carried her down the the cobbled street, leaving Shining to follow. “We still have someway to travel before we reach the Sweet Apple Acres.” Her words floated behind her, passing Shining’s ears as he chased her tail.

“Uh, why are we going there?” Straining his mind, Shining searched his memories for any mention of the place, his confusion growing as he found none. “I thought we were going to stay at an inn?”

A yellow pocket opened as its twin flaps shut, a thick stack of paper surrounded in pink glow appearing from within. “Celestia has organised for us to stay with a local family during our time in Ponyville. It says here they are an old family, friends of Celestia.” Turning to Shining, Cadence noted his slumped shoulders. “Cheer up,” She smiled. “I’m sure it’ll be fun.”

Finding their way proved more difficult than Cadence had predicted. The seemingly random placement of houses made the streets a maze, impossible to navigate. Finding themselves in the town square for the fourth time, Cadence peered at the directions written in their itinerary, as if reading the for the hundredth time would reveal something new.

“Do the two of yah need any help?” A twang called at them across the emptying marketplace, ponies cleaning their stall in preparation to head home. “I’ve seen yah come back around here three times, are yah lost?” The stallion questioning them tipped his brown leather seston as he approached, a friendly smile spreading his lips.

“I guess we are,” Cadence answered, her face covered in apology. “I wouldn’t want to trouble you too much, but if you could direct us to Sweet Apple Acres it would be a great help.”

“Why shoot,” The stallions smile widened across his orange muzzle, head shaking with a chuckle. “Ya’ll two must be the two that are supposed to be staying with us this week.”

He extended a hoof towards Shining, near wrenching the unicorn’s leg off with a shake before tipping his head at Cadence. “I’m Ginger Gold, but most folks round here just call me Goldy. You must be Princess Cadence,” He said, eyes locked with Shining. “And Shining Armour,” Turning his gaze to Cadence.

The pair shared a look and a blush, Cadence’s mouth opening to correct.

“Ah know, ah know, it was just a joke.” Another chuckled rumbles from Ginger’s chest, evoking nervous laughter from Shining and Cadence. “Now we’d better be heading off, would pay to get home before dark.”

Cadence and Shining paused momentarily as Ginger heaved a wooden cart over his apple shaped cutie-mark, onto his shoulders. Worn engravings of apples decorated each side, the cart empty but for a few pieces of wood used to assemble a stall. The cart’s heavy burden on Ginger slowed the trio’s pace as they followed a stony road south, Ponyville’s buildings thinning as they distanced themselves from the town centre.

Taking another peek at the fading light overhead, Cadence smiled at the beautiful fight between black and orange, the moon wrestling the sun below the horizon.

“So the two of yah never been to Ponyville before?” Ginger’s voice broke the monotonous creak and squeak of wood, briefly surprising Cadence.

“It’s actually the first place I’ve been outside of Canterlot,” Shining answered, his eyes watching the scenery shift from buildings to orchards.

Cadence nodded in agreement, “Same for me as well.”

Mention of a new experience rekindled the joy in Ginger’s face, his now familiar laugh greeting their ears. “Well then then ya’ll are going to have a real sweet time, Ponyville’s full of the nicest ponies around. Are yah here for anything special?”

Scanning her memory of the itinerary, Cadence failed to recall any specific details of what was required of them during their stay. The only words that came to mind were have fun. “I believe we’re here just to experience the town and its ponies.”

Ginger didn’t respond instantly, allowing a lull of silence to fall over the group, his lips moving thoughtfully, the hint of planning in his eyes.

The break in conversation left Cadence wondering which word was the wrong one, Shining’s mind occupied with the thought of his pie, still waiting for him in those yellow saddlebags.

“Ah think meeting the Apple family would be the best way to start.” Ginger’s words breaking the quiet brought relief to Cadence, her tight stomach uncoiling.

The red barnhouse creeping over the horizon quickened Ginger’s pace, transitioning from a pondering walk to a brisk one, the cart bouncing softly on the dirt under hoof. “There she is,” He announced, pride obvious in his tone. “Home. It was built by my grandfather when Ponyville was first founded.”

The first stars were waking as Ginger directed Cadence and Shining inside, staying in the cold for a few more moments to relieve his burden. The first thing to greet them was the heat, a stone fireplace across the room its source. The cosy hug a stark contrast to the nipping chill outside.

“Pa, Pa, ya’ll never guess what I did today.” A filly followed the cherry twang through the house, confusion lining her face as her eyes met Shining and Cadence. “Who are ya’ll?” Her coat was similar to Ginger’s, only a few shade lighter. The freckles blooming of her cheeks twisted as she struggled to put names to the faces before her.

“They’re the ponies who’ll be staying with us for the next few days Applejack,” The voice came from another earth pony, her chestnut mane falling freely over a white coat, green eyes greeting them warmly. “Welcome. I am Leafy and I assume you two are Shining Armor and Princess Cadence. Would you like something to eat?”

“Ah sure would dear.” The door clicked shut behind Cadence and Shining, Ginger stepping past them, touching his lips against Leafy’s cheek.

“Pa!” A blur of orange scampered between Cadence’s legs, leaping into Ginger’s waiting arms. “Ya’ll never guess what ah did today.”

Ginger’s face creased briefly in mock confusion. “Ate a whole cart of apples?” His guess evoked a small giggle from Cadence, the interaction between father and daughter warming her heart.

“Nah silly,” Applejack’s face scrunched up for a moment as she considered the absurdity of her father’s suggestion before springing back to a bright smile. “I bucked a whole tree all by myself.”

“Aw, ain’t yah just the best filly a father could want.” Ginger nuzzled Applejack, snout against snout. Taking his hat he rested it atop her blonde mane, bringing a spark of excitement to the filly's eyes. “Yah look just like a little apple bucker, soon ya’ll be out there bucking with your brother.”

“Speaking of Big Mac, where is he Applejack?” The moment between Ginger and Applejack past, Leafy directed the conversation, he mind set on gathering everyone for dinner.

The orange filly lifted her hoof, directing the group’s combined gaze towards the stairs. “He’s up in his room, doing something weird again. He won’t let me in.” Applejack’s over exaggerated frown displayed her annoyance.

“Ah’ll go get him,” Leaving his seston on Applejack’s head, Ginger stood out of her grasp, crossing the room and ascending the stairs with steady a clip-clop of hooves.

“Why don’t you have a seat at the table.” Taking their eyes of the stairwell, Leafy directed Shining and Cadence toward an oak table resting in the room’s centre. Thin, cream-colored padding surrounded it, covering the bare planks of wood that made up the floor. The light cushioning, while not uncomfortable, was a shock compared to the lavish pillows Cadence and Shining were accustomed to.

“So what’s for dinner?” Shining called after Leafy as she disappears through a doorway, his stomach growling for food.

“Why apples of course!” The response surprised both Cadence and Shining, not coming from Leafy’s direction as expected, but instead from behind. Straining his neck and body to peek at the voice’s source, Shining found Applejack, her hooves busy fiddling with the leather heat atop her head.

Cadence turned her whole body to view the filly, the adorable picture pulling at her cheeks. “And just what kind of apples will we be having?” Her baby like voice brought annoyance to Applejack’s features.

“Ah’m not a little filly yah know.” Sitting up straight, Applejack attempted to harden her features, hoping to age herself instantly. The seston too large for her head ruined the illusion, slipping over her eyes and evoking laughter from both Shining and Cadence.

“I’m sure you’re very mature for your age,” Cadence comforted, lifting the hat from Applejacks head. A plate clinked on the table behind them as she spoke, turning all three ponies’ heads.

“She truly is, I’m so proud of both of our children.” Her jaw free of the plate’s burden, Leafy skirted the table edge to correct lopsided hat, allowing it to hang down over Applejack’s neck. “Though they can be a handful sometimes, right Applejack?” The filly twisted her mouth, memories of her mishaps clear in her eyes.

Cadence noded at the statement, thoughts of Twilight’s almost supernatural obsession with books coming to memory. “I know how you feel, there’s a filly around the same age back in Canterlot that I simply love to take care of, even if she does have her troubles.” She turned to Shining to share the memories of Twilight, only to find his back to the conversation, his eyes glued to the steaming pot of stewed apples resting on the wooden table.

Leafy’s lips formed an O in surprise before returning to a warm smile. “The two of you have a filly of you own? You seem so young.” Red flashed on Cadences cheeks as her mouth scrambled to respond, the embarrassment numbing her tongue beyond speaking.

“”No, she’s not our daughter.” Shining stepped in to save Cadence from her moment of muteness, ignoring his stomach’s rumbling cries to eat. “She’s actually my little sister, we just babysit her sometimes when my parents are out, which is quite a lot.”

A blush akin to Cadence’s leapt to Leafy’s cheeks as she realised her mistake. “Sorry about that,” She apologised. “I jump to conclusions too quickly.” Her hooves played with Applejack’s mane without thought, repeating a path they had taken through the blonde mane thousands of times before, the familiar movement calming.

“It’s quite alright.” Her tongue untangled enough to speak, Cadence apologised herself. “I should have made it clearer.” The conversation reaching its end,Cadence simply stared at Leafy, the awkwardness of her accident leaving her mind blank.

The sound of hooves against the wooden stairs caused Leafy to jump, her legs carrying her back towards the kitchen. “I really should bring out the rest of the food.”

The food came in swiftly, plates of apple-based foods covering the table in a colorful mix of sights and smells. Pastries and pies, a bowl of fresh gold and red apples, stewed apples spiced with cinnamon. Each new dish pulling Shining’s nose its way, his mind unable to hold back the torrent of saliva pooling in his mouth.

Everyone else sitting around the table, Leafy allowed herself to rest, her rump covering an empty space opposite Shining and Cadence, next to Applejack. “So you two sorted everything out?” Leafy’s question caused Cadence’s mind to jump into action, searching for a problem between Shining and her before realising the query was directed at Ginger.

“It was nothing really,” Ginger answered with a smile, his eyes trying to find Big Mac’s, the young stallion shrinking away from his gaze. “Just stallion stuff, right Mac?”

“Eyup.” Mac’s single word seemed to be enough for Ginger, the golden stallion allowing his eyes to roam the table.

“Why don’t we get started?” The second the suggestion left Leafy’s lips Shining dove forward, his hooves flinging pastries and pies towards his plate, topping the stack off with a helping of stewed apples. Ignorant of the other ponies stares, Shining shoveled the food into his waiting mouth, the over exaggerated slurping and chewing a discomfort to the other’s ears.

Smiling at the crazed stallion, Cadence waved a hoof in apology. “Sorry about him, he really likes his food, and we haven’t eaten since lunch.” Leafy met her apologetic smile with a knowing one, her eyes twinkling in memory as the ponies around her helped themselves to apples.

“He reminds me of Ginger at that age, such an enthusiastic stallion with an appetite to match.” A sigh escaped Leafy’s lips, her mind briefly distant from the present as she relived cherished moments.

“Ah sure was,” Ginger affirmed, his twang drawing all eyes to him. “But you weren’t so bad yaself dear, the sweetest filly I had ever seen that day in the market. Granny Smith got awful mad at me because I couldn’t keep mah eyes off yah.”

His reminiscing ignited Cadence’s curiosity, her mind working as she chewed applepie, the sweetened mix of apples and pastry a joy to her tastebuds. “How exactly did the two of you meet?”

The question pulled Leafy’s green eyes in line with Ginger’s blue pair, the couple sharing an amused look. “There were two first meetings, when I first met Ginger, and as he tells it, when his eyes first met me.”

“Oh Leafy you don’t know the half of it.” Ginger’s head shook with his chuckles, the soft sounds somehow filling the room. His eyes stared into his plate, the china half-covered in stewed apples, half reflecting a blur of his face. “When ah first saw her it was like magic, ah thought ah was half unicorn for a second the buzz that went through me.”

Another chuckle rolled from Ginger’s lips as he turns to his left, capturing Leafy in his gaze. “She looked just as beautiful that day as she does now, standing beside ‘er mother at their flower stall. Ah was with Granny as usual, too young to buck apples, but old enough to sell em.” His eyes continued to hold Leafy’s as the pair shared a smile, shared memories long lost in the past.

“Now tell them how we actually met.” Leafy’s smile displayed her amusement, her eyes urging him to continue.

“Now that was another day entirely.” Blue eyes drifted from Leafy’s face towards the wall behind her, Ginger’s mind projecting the memory on the plain wood. “It was some time before ah managed to work up the courage to speak to Leafy, took me a few weeks to figure out how to win her heart.” His voice faded into silence, mind lost in the past.

Rolling her eyes, Leafy continueed where he left off, sharing the same dreamy expression plastered across Ginger’s face. “This golden colt came up to my mother’s flower stall, wanting to buy roses, but the only red flower he could afford was a lily. The shock my mother got when he handed it back across the counter, naming me the most beautiful filly he had ever seen.”

Leafy shook the memory from her mind, returning her eyes back to Shining and Cadence. “I felt a buzz as he handed the flower to me, something I thought of as strange when it happened. I discovered a few hours later however I had finally discovered my cutie-mark, a little red lily to match my white coat.”

“So that was it?” Cadence questioned, her watery eyes curious as to the end of the seemingly perfect love story.

“Not quite, I still had no idea who this golden stallion was, he never even told me his name.” Her focus danced around the room, a white hoof playing with a half eaten pastry on her plate. “He came back however, many, many times, buying the single bit lilies as an excuse to talk. Soon enough he asked me to his family reunion, something fun to do he said.”

“And she loved it,” Ginger cut in, a joking smile spreading his lips.

Bopping her husband on the nose, Leafy shook her head, soft brown mane swaying around her neck. “It was actually a disaster, as I have found all the reunions are, but I still had fun with Ginger, we shared our first kiss in the barn that day.”

“It sure was a great time.” Ginger’s words faded away as he leant his lips into Leafy’s, the pair sharing a kiss and a memory, much to Mac’s discomfort. The young stallion bumped his legs against the table’s edge as he rushed to leave, mumbling excuses under his breath.

The startled looks on Shining and Cadence’s faces asked for an answer, the silent question evoking a slow breath from Ginger’s lungs. “Don’t mind him, he’s just got some troubles bothering him. Nothing that won’t pass. Why don’t we finish our meal?” Ginger’s warm smile helped ease the silence out of the room, Shining’s sloppy chewing replacing it.

The dinner talk slowed as each ponies belly filled, Shining almost drifting off on his plate multiple times, an amusement to the rest of the table as he wiped apples from his cheek. Weariness dragged on each ponies’ eyelids as soft banter floated around the table, a battle Ginger called as a loss when Applejack’s fell asleep against Leafy.

“It would be best if we all got some rest, I’m sure you two have a lot planned for tomorrow.” The statement from Leafy brought a thoughtful smile to Cadence’s lips as she realised how wrong it was.

“Actually we don’t have anything planned,” Cadence responded sheepishly, her eyes gazing over Leafy’s shoulder, watching Ginger carefully carry Applejack up the stairs. “Do you have any suggestions?”

A white face twisted as Leafy choked back a yawn, the burden of sleep forcing her eyes to squint. “Why don’t we talk about it over breakfast?” She stood, ready to stumble off to bed.

“Wait, where are we supposed to sleep?” Cadence’s query shocked Leafy’s eyes open.

“I’m so sorry, I completely forgot to tell you. We’ve made room for the two of you in the barn. I hope you don’t mind, it’s all we have.” Leafy’s apologetic grin tugged at Cadence’s heart, forgetful mistakes an experience she knew well.

“Did you just say barn?” In his sleepy haze Shining questioned Leafy’s words, wondering if he was already dreaming.

“Trust me, it’s not as bad as it sounds, the hay is quite soft and makes for comfortable sleeping.” Leafy’s convincing did little to sway Shining’s opposition of the idea, the thought of sleeping somewhere so foreign a discomforting one.

A pink hoof on on his shoulder helped ease Shining’s worry, Cadence waiting beside him with a warm smile. “Don’t worry so much Shining, I’m sure it’ll be comfortable enough.” Cadence’s willingness in the matter put Shining’s fear to rest, allowing her touch along his back relax his tightened muscles.

“I guess it’ll be fine,” Shining breathed. The fight gone from his body, he felt the soft tug of sleep pulling at his bones.

Leafy’s allowed herself a relieved smile, her head bobbing in a discreet nod of thanks towards Cadence. “If you get hungry or thirsty during the night just check the kitchen, there’s plenty of leftover you can help yourself to.” A yawn followed Leafy’s final words, her need to rest pulling her towards the stairs.

“Good night,” Cadence called softly after the sleepy pony, evoking a lazy wave from Leafy before her white rear disappeared from sight. “We should be heading to sleep as well.” Shining followed the suggestion without acknowledgement, the day’s journey obvious in his movements.

The red barn’s massive door proved simple enough to open, well oiled hinges soundless as they followed the orders of Cadence’s magic. Beyond them waited a hard dirt floor, the golden color of hay peeking at them from the second level.

Eyeing up the flat expanse, an idea managed to push into Shining’s blurry mind. “Why don’t we set up the tent? There’s plenty of room in here.”

Cadence murmured agreement, the rustle of paper already sounding between her hooves. She recited the complex incantation just in time to catch Shining with an ethereal mattress as exhaustion overcome him.

Not bothering to form the canopy, Cadence crawled in beside the already sleeping Shining. Gracing his lips with a goodnight kiss before falling into the black clutches of sleep herself, dreams of the day ebbing into her mind.

The smell of cinnamon perked Shining’s nose, the tantalising scent reminding his stomach of its want to eat. Rolling onto his side he felt soft fur against his hoof, his eyelids blocking his vision. “Cadence?” The question was met with a wetness against his face, unexpected enough to shock Shining completely awake.

“Arf!” Opening his eyes Shining found his forelegs around a puppy, its pink tongue hanging inches from Shining’s face, hot breath wafting across his nose with each pant. Another lap at Shining’s nose caused him to flinch, gathering his hooves underneath.

The puppy sprung away in unison with his movements, its short white tail flailing madly as it circled around Shining, barking at odd intervals.

Ignoring the playful animal, Shining stretched his jaw in a yawn, the movement easing tension along his neck. The open barn door invited him outside, a mix of warm summer sun and soft birdsong aiding in its invitation.

Stepping into the light breeze outside, Shining followed a cinnamon scent, each step bringing him closer to the Apple family home.

“Good morning Shining!” Cadence called a greeting as he opened the door, the front room empty. “Just wait at the table, I’ll be out with breakfast soon.” The words were chased by a giggle, another voice joining Cadence’s in the joyful sound.

Ignoring the ache in his stomach and the urge to peek into the kitchen, Shining stretched himself out along the cushioned floor, his joints popping as each limb extended.

Cadence appeared from the kitchen door, dressed in a white apron, holding a steaming plate of pancakes drizzled in syrup. “You sure woke up late.” The comment distracted Shining’s mind from the delicious looking treats in front of him.

“What time is it?”

“Nearly noon dear,” Another voice answered him. Leafy stood beside Cadence, dressed in similar attire, her apron was colored like an apple, red frilled with green. “You must have really tired yourself out yesterday.”

“Mmmm,” Shining mumbled, his want to eat stronger than curiosity. The sight of his stuffed cheeks elicited another giggle from the aproned pair.

Two brown paper packages encapsulated in pink were deposited next to Shining’s plate. “If you’re still hungry you can have out sweets we bought yesterday. I haven’t been able to fit mine in with all the wonderful food round here.” Shining’s stomach responded to the gift with a rumble, loud enough for the mares to share another laugh.

“So what are we doing today?” Shining questioned between mix mouthfuls of pancake and banoffee pie.

“I was talking with Leafy in the kitchen earlier and she recommended we just stroll around town for a while. Apparently its full of ponies interesting ponies to talk with, and then there’s a lake a short walk from the town that Leafy says is beautiful.”

The white mare’s bobbing head supported the suggestions. “If you can manage to visit the lake just as the sun is setting you’ll find an amazing view waiting for you.” Leafy’s eyes shimmered for a moment as a snapshot of a memory passed through her mind. Ginger beside her as they watched the orange glow fading over the horizon, the skyline reflected on the water before them.

Shining opened his mouth to release another yawn, only to have a burp escape along with it. The pair managed to suppress their giggles this time, Leafy bringing a hoof to her mouth just in case. “So are we ready to go then?” Shining’s question jolted Cadence into preparation mode, her mind skimming through a mental checklist.

“Just let me take this apron off and grab a drink first.” Shining’s eyes followed Cadence’s pink rump as she scurried towards the kitchen, the movement of his head an obvious sign of his actions.

“You really do like her don’t you?” The voice startled Shining, reminding him of the pony standing next to him.

Switching his focus to Leafy, Shining found a comforting smile waiting for him. The easy expression only helping to fuel the fire burning in his cheeks. “Uh, yeah. I guess I do.”

Leafy’s eyes somersaulted at Shining’s awkward response, her head shaking at his naivety. “There’s no need to be embarrassed about it. Your attraction is a natural part of life, embrace it.” The comforting words worked against their intention, the redness of Shining’s face growing with Leafy’s amusement.

“What are you two talking about?” Cadence sprung through the kitchen door, yellow saddlebags dangling at her sides.

Muffling her laughter, Leafy twisted her head back at Cadence. “Shining was simply telling you how much he loves you,” She teased, the half truth of the statement leaving Shining unable to deny.

“I think that’s very sweet Shining.” Cadence stepped across the room to stand next to Shining, her hooves singing on the wood below. “It’s too bad he never tells me these things.” Her lips graced Shining’s snout, the stallion barely noticing through the swirl of confusing emotions in his gut.

“Oh he’s much more of a shower than a teller.” Green eyes perked out as Leafy imitated Shining’s previous actions, the over exaggeration bringing a smile to Cadence’s face and another kiss to Shining’s cheek.

“That’s actually how I discovered he had an interest in me,” Cadence admited, holding Shining’s eyes with a comforting look, helping to ease his embarrassment. “I babysat his little sister for years, constantly wondering if this colt liked me or not. It wasn’t until I questioned Celestia about it that I found out. She told me to watch his eyes and sure enough I caught them.”

The two mares shared a laugh, the sound repeated enough by then for Shining to grow sick of it. “I think it’s about time we went to town,” He commented, attempting to hide the annoyance in his voice.

Noting the slight hint of emotion, Cadence nodded, understanding. “I think Shining’s right, we’ve been inside for enough time today already.” Craning her neck, she checked her saddlebag with magic to be sure everything was there. “We’ll see you later Leafy.”

“You two have a good day.” Leafy saw the two out, farewelling them with a wave before retreating back inside.

Outside the sun had nearly reached its peak, a hard light attacking their eyes, forcing them to blink. His eyes adjusting first, Shining scanned the landscape. Rows upon rows of apple trees heavy with fruit met his gaze, large wooden buckets resting under a few.

Continuing to turn his head, Shining spotted Big Mac plodding towards the barn, a cart filled with bright red dragging behind. “That’s Mac right?” He whispered the question, not wanting to let the stallion hear his forgetfulness.

Following the direction of Shining’s gaze, Cadence squinted her eyes through the sun. “Mmhmm,” She nodded, pulling the little knowledge she had of Mac into mind. “He was having some trouble with something last night.”

“Oh that’s right.” Forgetting the reason he was staying quiet, Shining half yelled the words, catching Mac’s attention. Mac only acknowledged his notice for a second, his head flicking towards Shining just as fast as it turned away. “Goldy said something about stallion problems, whatever that is.”

Watching Big Mac’s nervous glance, Cadence couldn’t help but smile at the shy stallion, her caring heart wanting to help. “You’re a stallion aren’t you?,” She nudged his side. “Why don’t you go talk to him?” Shining grimaced at the suggestion, talking to unfamiliar ponies not something comfortable for him.

“I don’t know, maybe we should just go to town.” The excuses coming from Shining’s lips reached no one, Cadence already strolling toward the slow-moving stallion. Accepting his fate with a sigh, Shining followed.

Unable to ignore the other ponies, Mac stopped, his eyes tracking the couple as they closed the distance. His hooves shuffled on the spot, itching to avoid the confrontation, a nervous concoction stewing in his stomach.

“Hey Big Mac, I don’t think Shining or I have been introduce yet. I’m Cadence,” Peeking back over her shoulder, Cadence waited till Shining was by her side. “And this is Shining Armor.”

Mac’s lips twitched, his mind wanting to express itself, interact with the ponies standing before him. “Eyup.” His vocal cords managed to produce the sound through the weight of anxiety, the burden of fear tightening his throat.

Cadence smiled at the response, expecting more of a conversation to work with. Her mind jumped to the only thing she remembers about the stallion. “So you’ve been having problems?” Cadence winced as the words left her mouth, the sentence coming out more insulting than she had intended.

Mac replied with a blush, turning away from the source of his embarrassment to look back at the barn.

“I guess we’ll see you later Mac,” Shining quickly interrupted the awkward silence, not wanting to bother the stallion any longer. Nudging Cadence with his snout, he started her into action, the pair striding back to their original path.

The red structure of the Apple family home disappearing over the horizon, Cadence allowed relief to escape her lungs. “Thank you for saving me there Shining. Who knew trying to talk to ponies was so difficult.” Turning to Shining, she found a comforting smile waiting for her, a white leg draping round her neck in a half-hug.

“Some ponies just aren’t as confident as others.” A picture of Twilight drifted into Shining’s mind, her bumbling attempts at making friends during her first week of school. “Remember how Twilight was when she first met you, I’m sure Mac’s just like that.”

Her eyes lazily trailing the treeline beside them, Cadence smiled at her own memory of Twilight. The filly had hidden the first time Cadence babysat, only with enough coaxing from Shining had she shown herself, holding Cadence in her eyes as if she were a monster. “Maybe, I’ll try again tonight.”

The short walk to Ponyville was uneventful, their only company the forest to their right, its contents hidden by a wall of leaves. Idle banter filled the air, Cadence speaking her plans aloud, Shining listening, adding ideas every so often.

“So we’re definitely going to the lake later,” Cadence confirmed, the buildings of Ponyville all around them now. “And there doesn’t seem to be much else to do.”

“We could always go back to that sweet store, Sugarcube something.” Shining offered the suggestion with a hopeful smile, his stomach thinking for him.

The proposal brought a smirk to Cadence’s face, her eyes catching sight of something in the distance. “I’ll allow it on one condition.” Surprise jolted onto Shining’s face followed by a nod, his reaction widening Cadence’s smile. “So you don’t want to hear the other end of the offer?”

Shining’s lips paused before a word escaped, his mind finally recognising the devious look plastered across Cadence’s face. “What exactly do you have in mind?”

“I think it’ll be best if I show you.” The words hung in the air as Cadence strolled off, Shining following a few steps behind, still dwelling on the possibilities Cadence may have in mind. A mix of pink and blue caught Shining’s eye, Cadence’s path taking them directly towards the colorful structure.

“Aloe and Lotus’s Relaxation Spa,” Shining read from the sign overhead, the words foreign to him. “What’s a spa?”

“Something you’re going to enjoy.” A bell chimed as they enter, a pair of ponies greeting Shining and Cadence with wide smiles and squinted eyes. Their colors mirrored each other perfectly, one possessing a mane of short pink hair, her coat baby blue, the other’s coat pink and mane blue. White bandanas held both of the mares’ manes back.

“Welcome to Aloe and Lotus’s Relaxation Spa,” The one with a blue coat announced, her voice welcoming. “I am Lotus and this is my sister Aloe, what can we do for you today?”

Cadence turned back to Shining, his discomfort obvious in the shifting of white hooves and the twisting of his lips. “How much is a couples treatment?” She responded with the same cheeriness as Lotus, silently giggling at Shining’s unease.

“That depends, do you want the special treatment or the regular?” Aloe spoke this time, her voice identical to her sister’s. Cadence already found herself wondering which is which.

“Well what exactly does each one involve?” Cadence questioned, the mention of a special treatment intriguing.

The matching sisters shared a glance, both giggling simultaneously as if they were one body. “The regular treatment includes a massage, mud bath, as well as some time afterwards to relax in our naturally heated pools.”

“The special treatment includes all of that,” Aloe picked up where her sister left off, the change in speaker barely noticeable. “But we massage oils into your body that heighten your sense of touch, then we provide a room for the two of you.”

“We’ll take the special.” The words flew from Shining’s mouth before Cadence could even realise what Aloe had just implied. Cadence’s cheeks fired with red as she comprehended the past few moments, half her mind embarrassed, half picturing Shining inside of her, every movement enhanced by the promised oils.

Lotus nodded thankfully as Shining presented her with a golden bit, the purse full of them somehow out of Cadence’s saddlebags and in his magical grasp. The decision already made for her, Cadence followed the other three ponies into the next room, a row of beds waiting for them.

The floor changed from soft carpet to cool marble as Cadence stepped through the door, a chill running along her nerves. The tiled walls were broken by mirrors every few paces, another four ponies joining their group in the world behind the glass.

Stretching out on one of the thickly cushioned mattresses, Cadence allowed her eyes to wander the room. A doorway on the other side of the room led into what she assumed were hot pools, a curtain of steam at the door blocking her view inside.

Cadence could hear the light sound of splashing behind her, turning she discovered Aloe stirring a clay pot of what must’ve been the massaging oil. Aloe poured two small buckets from the mixture, trading one with Lotus for a ladle. “Now just relax, and allow the oil to work its magic.”

Obeying, Cadence rested her head in a position where she could see Shining, the stallion having a similar idea. The shared a gasp as the cool liquid was spooned onto their coats, seeping through the thin layer of fur and running over skin.

Pink eyelids shut as Cadence concentrated on the sensations across her back, the pressing of hooves, the warming oil tingling against her skin. Each push and pull along her coat slowly became more pronounced, her nerves picking up the tiniest of details.

The feeling of Aloe’s coat mingling with Cadence’s captured her attention, her mind able to pinpoint the movement of each tiny hair. Hearing a groan Cadence opened her eyes, finding Shining enjoying the massage just as much she was, the wide smile of his face twisting with each of Lotus’s movements.

A hoof running along her backside drew Cadence’s attention back to her own body, the feeling of Aloe fondling the base of her tail an unsettling one. Knowing where the massage was heading, Cadence ignored her unease, instead attempting to enjoy the feeling as Aloe’s massaging trailed down her cheeks.

Aloe’s hooves spread oil over her lips for the briefest of moments, the shot of sensation sending a shiver along Cadence’s spine before passing on.

“Can you please roll over?” Cadence failed to notice the question till Aloe repeated it, the overwhelming sense of touch dominating mind. The question reaching her consciousness the second time, she obliged, exposing her belly to the masseuse.

The touching along her sensitive underside tickled Cadence, the urge to squirm away from each touch a powerful one. She managed to maintain her stillness by ignoring her sense of touch, instead focusing on the sounds surrounding her.

The movement of hooves over her coat and Shining’s dulled by her heightened other sense, the surrounding sounds were barely a whisper in her ears. Shining’s groans were louder, the stallion unable to control himself as Lotus lathered the oil over his stomach.

“You may stand now.” The words came with the removal of Aloe’s hooves from Cadence’s body, her mind feeling dead without the constant rush of sensation. Begrudgingly she stood, resisting the urge to ask for another half-hour of massage.

The sisters led Shining and Cadence into the steamy pool room, the embrace of the moist air highlighted by their hyper sensitive nerves. Cadence felt as if she were in the water rather than walking beside it.

Beyond the humid room lay a short hallway, two doors on either side, all hanging open. Aloe’s hoof pointed towards the first opening on the left, “You may have room A, remember to lock the door behind you.” The sisters left them quickly, calls of another customer beckoning them back to the front desk.

Cadence led the way, Shining following with his eyes pinned to the carpeted floor. The room’s interior was dominated by a low-lying bed, the step onto its plain white covers an easy one for Cadence. She couldn’t help but roll against the silk sheets, the feeling of fabric against her back sending a swarm of sensation through her body.

The door clicked twice as Shining shut and locked it, the massive smile on his lips making him look like a colt in a candy store. “So where do you want to start?” He joined Cadence on the expansive bedding, the mare still relishing in the feeling of rolling across it.

“Before we do anything you’ve got to try this,” Cadence breathed between her lips, the simple pleasure of something touching her back overcoming her thoughts. Shining’s brow raised as he watched Cadence enjoy herself like a puppy rolling in fresh grass. His shoulders lifting in a shrug before he joined her.

Lowering himself onto the bed, Shining flipped his body over. The feeling of soft sheets against his back enough to elicit a groan from his throat, the tingle running along his body better than any pleasure imaginable.

Following Cadence’s lead, he squirmed against the silk, the sensation akin to one million tiny feathers running along his back, ticklish but soothing. Instinctively he spread his hooves out like a starfish, trying to push as much of his skin against the sheets as he could.

Cadence’s nickers mixed in the air with Shining’s groans, the sheets underneath rustling leaves. Accidentally, Shining rolled too far, turning his whole body onto his stomach, half-resting on Cadence.

“Oh Shining,” Cadence whispered in reaction to Shining’s touch, his coat against hers a heavenly pleasure. Grasping his foreleg between her hooves, she dragged in against her belly, the movement lightning against her skin.

Shuddering, Shining propped himself up with his other leg, leaning over Cadence to bring his lips against hers. The contact of their skin caused an explosion, sensation starting at their lips, running along their nerves to the furthest reaches of their bodies.

Wanting to taste the pleasure of another kiss, Shining lowered his head again. A shudder running up his spine shifted his aim, his lips nuzzling Cadence’s neck instead. The sweet smell of oil on her body filled his nose, strawberries.

Shining felt a sharp stab of pain from below, the overload of pleasure pushing blood towards his groin, his rapidly growing length trapped between two bodies with nowhere to go. Lifting himself off Cadence, the weight of his shaft caused it to swing downwards, a slap against Cadence’s stomach.

The harsh impact forced Shining to grit his teeth, the sensitive rod of nerves throbbing with sore pleasure. Stilling growing, the feeling of his member against Cadence’s soft coat, swelled his want as well.

Realising Shining’s condition, Cadence pushed his body down, his snout against her chest, tip poking against her lips. Shining obeyed her directions, positioning himself for entrance, the feeling of his shaft probing her a red hot length of iron burning against her skin.

Shining’s entry pushed the air from Cadence’s lungs, their interiors and exteriors sliding against each other, a river of pleasure enhanced by their over sensitive nerves. Merely being inside Cadence sent rushes of sensation down Shining’s length, eliciting deep groans from his lips.

The two stayed still for a moment, the only movement their chests rising and falling with each breath, their most sensitive parts throbbing and squeezing against each other. Their hearts beating against each other were two drums in time, each boom felt through both bodies.

The almost painful overload of pleasure fading, Shining moved once again, drawing himself halfway out from Cadence before thrusting back inside, their parts fitting as well as a sword and sheath.

In his awkward position Shining could only manage to slide a little over half of his length inside, the collision of his hips against Cadence’s rear legs stopping any further advances. The lack of space to move was countered by the power of each movement, enhanced by their heightened sense of touch even the tiniest of shifts felt like a full thrust.

With each plunge Shining’s chest ground against Cadence’s, the pleasure from the friction almost equal to that of Shining’s movements. Moans and groans filled the air along with the sloppy sound of Shining’s slow thrusts. Cadence’s sighs built in pitch, each movement another note higher, each thrust another octave.

Driven by the blank madness of her mind, Cadence lifted her head, intending to nibble Shining’s ear. The crazy pleasure shuddering through her body offsetting her sense of sight, Cadence’s felt her teeth close around flesh.

“Celestia,” Shining yowled, pulling away from the crab pincer that was Cadence’s jaw, leaving a few white hairs in her mouth. “What did you do that for?” His voice was breathy, hips still moving instinctively inside Cadence.

Pulling the leftover fluff from her mouth with a spark of magic, Cadence smiled guiltily. “Sorry, I kinda misjudged myself a lit-” Her finals words were cut off by a yelp of pleasure, Shining’s rough thrust sending a bolt of sensation through her body.

Ignoring Cadence’s misstep, Shining continued his movements, increasing his speed gradually, until the impacts of his hips against Cadence’s echoed throughout the room, the sound like a solitary pillow fight.

Feeling the tension building between his legs, Shining squeezed his groin muscles, his body’s only will a want to fill Cadence. He noted the pace of her breathing increasing, a sign of her coming release.

Trained, Shining held himself until he felt Cadence’s back arch, her inner muscles loosening briefly. Shining gave one final thrust before stilling his movements, allowing his groin to take over, pulsing his shaft in time with Cadence’s squeezes.

The first dispense of Shining’s seed was small, the hot liquid somehow cool against their burning parts. The second load was larger, each subsequent one growing in size, slowly filling Cadence’s insides with the sticky liquid.

Cadence’s inner walls writhed around Shining’s length as he ejected his seed. Her rapid breathing pushing her chest against his, the sensation adding to her release.

The ejection of Shining’s seed slowing, he lowered his body against Cadence’s, their sweaty chests feeling as one. Like waves pushing against the air above, pink pushed against white, both ponies exhausted from the stress on their nerves.

His aching muscles highlighted by over sensitive nerves, Shining rolled off of Cadence, resting on the bed beside her. Both panting in unison, Cadence and Shining caught their breath wordlessly, the bed squeaking underneath the rising and falling of their stomachs.

Cadence recovered first, propping herself up on a limb to stare at Shining, happiness in both her eyes and smile. Running her hoof along his stomach, she wiped away a line of oil and sweat. Looking down at her own belly, Cadence realised her body was covered in a similar concoction.

Climbing down from the bed, Cadence shook herself like a wet dog, splattering the room with oil and sweat.. Searching the room her eyes found two towels hung over a nearby rail. Soft against her hoof, Cadence relished in the feeling of fresh fabric, like an ice cream on a hot day it soothed her, calming her frenzied nerves.

“Clean yourself up Shining,” Cadence said with a smile as she tossed the other towel to the still dozing stallion. Shining sprung up at the impact, as if he had just been hit by a bucket of cold water. Realising he was blind with the towel covering his face, Shining dragged the soft material over his muzzle, wiping the sheen from it.

Rolling his shoulders, Shining stretched the aching muscles in his back as he used magic to run the towel over the remainder of his body. “That sure was some weird oil.”

“Mmhmm, maybe next time we can just get a normal massage?” Finished cleaning herself, Cadence bundled her stained towel into a ball before taking another potshot at Shining with it. She hit him dead in the face again, recoating his surprised expression with the sticky mixture of sweat and oil.

Shining’s reaction sent Cadence into a fit of laughter as she watched the liquid drip from his nose. “You owe me some chocolate for this.” Shrugging Cadence’s towel to the floor, Shining finished wiping himself down before bundling both sweaty rags into a ball.

Leaving the spa, they followed the rumble of Shining’s stomach, its grumbles paired with his nose to directed them to the marketplace.

Colorful stores surrounded them on all side, each corner clearly segregated into categories. In one corner bouquets of flowers, small saplings and other plant life greeted their eyes. Another held clothes and construction supplies, the third an unsorted chaos of useless junk, mostly colt’s play toys.

The final and largest corner hosted food and drink, the thick aroma coming from it metal to Shining’s magnetic nose. Strolling behind him, Cadence found her stomach responding to the call of food also, the tantalizing treats making her mouth water.

“Hay, Shining, Cadence, over here.” Turning, the pair were surprised to find Ginger Gold on the other end of the voice, his white teeth showing through a grin as he waved them over.

“I didn’t expect to see you here,” Cadence admitted, realising how obvious Ginger’s attendance at the market was. Beside her Shining’s mouth hung open, drool pooling inside, his eyes focused on the assortment of apples.

“Why ah’m here everyday, now can ah get the two of yah anything to eat?” His golden hoof waved over the selection of treats before him.

Before Shining could speak Cadence plugged his mouth with a hoof, wincing at the puddle of saliva that splashed against her coat. “Do you have anything light and sweet?”

Chuckling as he watched Cadence handle Shining, Ginger rolled his eyes into his head for a brief moment before returning his gaze to Cadence. “Ya’ll be wantin’ the miniature apples pies then.” He lifted one on his hoof, twisting it to display its glorious golden pastry.

“Right, I’ll take one for me and three for Shining, how much will that cost me?” Reaching her magic into her saddlebags, Cadence produced their pouch of bits, pulling a golden coin from the leather sack.

“Ah couldn’t ask a pony living in mah own home to pay for food, have them for free.” He held a brown paper bag out to Shining and Cadence, pies already packaged inside. Shining’s hoof reached out to snatch them before Cadence’s voice halted his movements.

“No, no, I have to give you something. Filling Shining with free pies will run you out of business.” She handed him the golden bit, “I don’t suppose you have change for that?”

On sight of the bit Ginger chuckled, shaking his head. “It’d be more trouble trying to find change for that there coin than it’d be worth. Just take them for free.” His hoof extended further, close enough for Shining to snatch the bag in his mouth, drool darkening the paper.

Rolling her eyes, Cadence pulled the food from Shining’s bite before handing him one of the pies. “Thanks Goldy.” Cadence waved, intending to leave, but a thought made her stop. “Oh, you wouldn’t have any other places you recommend going to? We’ve got a few hours before we go to the lake.”

“Well where’ve yah been so far?” Ginger questioned, causing a red glow to pass into Cadence’s cheeks.

“We’ve, uh, just come from the spa.” Noticing Cadence’s pink cheeks darkening, Ginger chuckled again as he put the obvious clues on the pair’s faces together. “And then we came right here.”

Fiddling with his hat, Ginger hummed thoughtfully, eyes squinting as he thought. “Well yah see Ponyville ain’t some big town with famous places to go like Canterlot or Manehatten. It’s more of a homey place, with good ponies. I’d say yah should just explore, see what yah find for yourself.”

Shining and Cadence tried to follow Ginger’s advice, but the unfamiliar streets of Ponyville twisted their sense of direction until they had no clue of where they were. Finally giving up on finding her own way, Cadence stopped, her stomach moaning for her to finish the other half of her pie.

“Why don’t we just stop for a break Shining?” Cadence suggested, roaming her eyes around their surroundings, looking for a place to sit. Their wandering had ended them up in a park of sorts, the closest sign of buildings a cream roof that could be spied through the leaves of a nearby oak.

Looking around as well, Shining found a plethora of colours and scents impacting his nose, every variety of flower imaginable, none of them he could name. Among them the rich purple of lavender, soft white of daisies and the alluring pink of roses.

“There’s a bench over there,” Shining pointed out. Hidden behind the drooping leaves of two willows was a flat platform of wood, easily large enough to hold five ponies side by side. Cadence strolled over and climbed onto it, stretching herself out on the wood, pulling the leftover pie from her saddlebags.

Following her, Shining rolled onto the bench to lie beside Cadence and stare at the branches above. “This town sure is boring.” A prolonged yawn helped to emphasize his point.

“It’s not boring if you know where to look.” The voice came from outside their enclosure of willows, feminine. “Ponyville is the most wondrous town in Equestria.” The curtain of leaves parted before Shining and Cadence, a cream coated pony with a mane like rose petals stepped through.

She was young, maybe a few years older than Shining and Cadence. Her green eyes wandered the natural room they shared, smile twitching and shifting as she took in the surrounding beauty. “Its gardens are simply wonderful.” Snout dancing in air she inhaled, tasting the aroma around her.

“Hey there, I’m Cadence and this is Shining.” Cadence’s hoof pointed first to herself, then Shining and she greeted the newcomer. “If you don’t mind me asking, what’s your name?”

The cream-colored mare seems startled at Cadence’s speech, as if she had already forgotten they were there. “Oh, I’m Roseluck.” A grin spread across her face as she spoke her name. “Are the two of you new to Ponyville? I’ve never seen you around.”

“I guess you could say that, we arrived last night.” Cadence said, ignoring another grumble from her stomach. “Uh, Roseluck, if you’re not too busy, would you mind showing us the way back to the town centre, we’re a little lost.”

“I’ll be glad to, but I think you should finish that pie first, you sound a little hungry.” Rose pointed to the half-eaten apple pie resting atop the brown paper bag beside Cadence. The reminder forced an embarrassed smile to Cadence’s face. Taking the treat in her magic, she quickly tore the pastry apart, wolfing down the pie in a matter of seconds.

The performance elicited laughter from Shining and Rose both, feeding Cadence’s embarrassment. “Let’s just go.” Cadence stood, scrunching the paper bag and burying it in her saddlebags.

With Shining and Cadence waiting before her, shock spread across Rose’s face, jaw hanging open as her eyes flicked around nervously. “I think I might have forgotten how to get out.”

“Really?” Shining blurted before realising the volume of his voice. “I mean, are you sure you can’t remember.” An apologetic smile formed on Shining’s lips, hoping he hadn’t frightened the unfamiliar pony.

Rose’s expression fell like a sand castle under Shining’s question, her eyes finding the grass underneath. “No, not really. I know my way around this garden better than the way back home. I, I just wanted another pony to spend time in here with me, wandering aimlessly.”

Unable to help the feelings stemming from her heart, Cadence closed the gap between her and Rose, pulling the crestfallen pony into a hug. Surprised to find her face pressed into a pink shoulder, Rose backed away slightly before simply standing still, waiting the embrace out.

“What was that for?” Rose queried softly after Cadence dropped her forelegs and stepped back.

Briefly puzzled by the question, Cadence’s face twisted with confusion before she realised her assumptions were wrong. “Oh, I thought you needed a little comfort. I’m sorry if I surprised you.”

“No, it’s fine. I just wasn’t expecting something so, bold. I was just wanting some company.” Staring at the ground, Rose traced circles in the grass with her hoof, waiting for either pony to speak.

“We’ll be happy to join you.” Surprising both himself and Cadence, Shining found himself impulsively breaking the silence. The lonely looking pony before him wearing at his heart, a want to help her overcoming him.

Glad Shining had taken the lead for once, Cadence nodded. “Yes, we’d love to. We’ve got plenty of time till we have to be anywhere, so why not?” The confirmation was a hoof under Rose’s chin, lifting her gaze up to meet Cadence’s, joy written across her features.

Following Rose and listening to her rave about the garden unlocked a magical beauty in the place, the flowers brighter, birdsong more in tune, the wind as comforting as a mother’s embrace.

Their stroll through the garden seemed aimless, Rose’s twisted and turns looping back through places they had been before. Eventually she stopped at what appeared to be a dead end, a large hedge baring their way.

“This is my favourite place in the whole world,” Rose’s words flowed from her mouth excitedly, the smile on her face growing into a grin. “I come here whenever I feel lonely, which is almost everyday.” A cream hoof tested the leafy green waters before them before Rose dove right in, swallowed by the hedge completely.

Uncertain of what was to come, Shining pushed his hoof through the wall of leaves cautiously. Finding solid ground on the other side, he barged his whole body through, bumping into Rose’s rear. “Oo, sorry.” Shining backed away, only to collide with Cadence as she followed him.

The domino line of ponies ended up on the grass, Rose giggling and the other two quickly catching on. Rose’s laughter finished with a happy sigh, her eyes watching the movement of birds in the branches above.

Recovering from the laughter, Shining rolled onto his stomach, gathering his hooves underneath in an attempt to stand. Through the movement he found his snout inches above Cadence’s, the warmth of her breath flowing into his nostrils. Allowing an urge to roam free, he lowered his muzzle, brushing his lips softly against Cadence’s.

Cadence responded as Shining withdrew, her mouth reaching up to grasp his from the air, pulling him back down with locked lips. Watching the two, Rose sensed a warmth at her cheeks, the beauty of their intimate embrace enhanced by the surrounding garden. “You two look amazing when you kiss.”

Having forgotten Rose for the moment, hearing her voice jolted Shining and Cadence, their teeth knocking against each other as they parted. “Oh, I forgot you were there.” Cheeks glowing crimson and an uneasy smile spreading her lips, Cadence rolled away from Shining.

“Don’t feel embarrassed, sharing a moment like that isn’t anything to be afraid of. It’s quite beautiful actually.” Rose spoke without making eye contact, her focus still wandering around the small room they were in.

Still feeling the soft sickness of nervousness, Shining studied the surrounding nature also, occupying his eyes while the feeling faded. His eyes climbing the tall oak that was the centerpiece, wild flowers, orange and pink, surrounded the wooden tower on all sides, like worshipers of some colossal god. The symphony reaching his ears was what caught Shining’s attention however.

The thick hedges bounced the birdsong around, a hollow tube filled with the tweeting and chirping of hundreds of tiny creatures above. They darted this way and that, fighting, playing, loving, the oak was a hive of activity, its sparrows the bees.

Shifting her eyes to Shining, Rose noticed the stallion’s head moving, tracking the birds’ flight paths. “I see you’ve taken an interest in the birds Shining.” Hearing his name snapped Shining from his trance, blinking rapidly as he processed the Rose’s words.

“A little,” Shining admitted, hoof rubbing against his neck, guilty smile on his face. “There’s so much going on, it’s almost like they’ve got their own little city up there.”

“Mmmm, that’s why I come here, watching those birds helps me forget about my problems.” A sigh escaped Rose’s lips, the breath a mixture of joy and sadness. The garden fell silent as she watched the birds above, her eyes dancing with the reflections of theirs wings.

Recalling how Mac had responded to her attempt to help, Cadence bit back the question on her tongue, not wanting to bring unease to the pony before her. “What do you mean by problems?” Shining spoke the words for her, the intrusive question making Cadence wince.

“Oh, they’re nothing really, just silly things I overthink into big problems.” Rose’s dismissal sparked a drive in Cadence, her curiosity overriding her worry of offending Rose.

“If they’re nothing big, could you tell us?” The query escaped Cadence’s lips before she could stop it, the effort only causing her to bite her tongue. “I mean, you don’t have to if you don’t want to.”

Rose’s whole body shook as she chuckled, the soft sound out of place in the conversation. “I can’t seem to find anyone to talk to. I-” Her eyes flicked across to Shining, so quick Cadence wondered if it was simply a glint of light. “I want a stallion myself, someone who I can share my interests with.”

Without realising it, Cadence shifted closer to Shining, her foreleg wrapping over his withers. “Well I’d love to help you, but as we said we’re new to town and don’t really know anyone around here.” The words rushed from Cadence’s mouth, an instinctual form of defense.

Another chuckle rolled through Rose as she noticed Cadence’s movements. “Don’t worry Cadence, I’m not the kind of mare who’d steal someone away, if that’s what you were thinking. But if you see any lonely looking stallions, could you direct them my way?”

Shining’s neck straightened with realisation, the sudden movement throwing Cadence’s leg into the air. “We know a lonely looking stallion, and he’s around your age as well.” At first shocked by Shining’s jolt, understanding of his intentions dawn on Cadence.

“He’s quite shy however, so I don’t know if he’d want to meet you.” Cadence’s eyes lit up as she spoke, her mind already plotting scenarios, a way she could convince the stallion to come out of his shell. “I’m sure you’ve heard of Big Mac?”

The excitement overflowing from Cadence spilling into her, Rose sat up, face scrunched as she thought. “I can’t say I have, is he from Ponyville?”

“He’s part of the Apple family, they live a little way out of town,” Cadence explained, I wonder if Mac even leaves the orchard.

“Oh, so he lives out there, maybe he never comes to town then.” Rose’s eyes wandered the bush behind Shining and Cadence, her ears twitching to the sound of birds chirping overhead. “I’ve seen Ginger Gold and his daughter Applejack around town, is he related to them?”

Cadence confirmed Rose’s suspicions with a nod. “I could try arranging something for the two of you, but I haven’t been able to get a word out of him so far, so don’t expect anything.”

The trio fell silent after that, Rose lying back down, belly up, watching the community of birds above. Cadence messed with Shining’s hair as he dozed, the stallion’s dreams filled with chocolate delights.

“I should be heading home soon, it’s getting late.” Rose’s announcement reminded Cadence of Leafy’s recommendation. She jumped to her hooves, pulling Shining from his rest with an accidental jerk of his mane.

“We need to be going as well, someone recommended we go to a certain spot to watch the sunset.” Cadence spoke over Shining’s wincing, a strand of blue hair falling to the ground as he stood. “Could you show us the way out of here?”

The garden was smaller than it appeared, outlines of buildings showing through the thinning flora after a short walk. Rose was interrupted by countless greetings as they strolled through town, family members, friends, all of them mares.

“We’ll meet you back here tomorrow, okay?” Cadence said as they arrived at the town square, unsure if she could navigate to the garden through the maze of Ponyville.

“Mmmm,” Rose nodded, her focus on the ever moving crowd of ponies behind Cadence. “Oh, what time?” She managed to remember before Cadence turned away.

Moving to face Shining, Cadence discussed the question with him silently, their eye contact enough to communicate. “Is noon fine for you Rose?”

“That sounds perfect, I’ll see the three of you tomorrow.” Rose disappeared back the way they had came, waving goodbye over her shoulder before disappearing round the corner.

The excitement of watching Rose’s joy wearing away, Cadence allowed a heavy breath to escape her lungs. “I just hope we can convince Mac to come with us.” The pair skirted the angry nest of ponies in the town square, sticking to the shade of the surrounding buildings.

“I’m sure it’ll be fine.” Shining’s speech dropped away as he dodged a pair of fillies darting out from an alleyway, a cream colored earth pony trailing a mint green unicorn. “Any stallion I know would be all over the chance at a date, he’ll be just the same.”

“I hope you’re right,” Cadence wished, dreaded fantasies of failure creeping in on her perfect picture of Mac and Rose together.

Stepping out from the marketplace, Cadence and Shining entered the maze of Ponyville again, each turn seeming to lead to the same place as the last. Different ponies gave them inklings of information, each getting them a step closer their destination.

Finally they arrived at a wall of greenery, a small dark tunnel formed in its side. It was so thin they had to go one by one, the soft touch of leaves against their sides beckoning them onwards. Beyond the trees lay another world entirely, detached from Ponyville in the same way as Rose’s hidden place, but incomparably larger.

The lush green carpet of grass ran down from the hill where they stood, circled round the mirror of water and off into the distant trees. Descending the hill, Cadence noticed the sky’s bright light disappearing behind the treeline across the lake.

The lake failed to live up to its name, more of a pond untouched by life rather than a lake. Its surface greeted Shining with ripples as he sat beside it, the overgrown grass serving as a perfect cushion.

“What is he says no?” Cadence blurted, tomorrow’s plans already weighing on her mind, her want for everything to be perfect an itch she couldn’t ignore. “It would be terrible to disappoint Rose like that.”

Looking back to Cadence, Shining recognized the familiar lines of stress on her face. “I’m sure Rose isn’t worrying about this as much as you are.” He spoke through a chuckle. “Now sit down and forget about all that stuff, this is supposed to be a trip for us.”

“I know, I know. There’s just so many other ponies out there that are alone, and I can’t bare seeing them like that.” A pink wing cloaked Shining as Cadence sat, her stress pushed from her body as a breath. “I just want to help them be like us.”

“Just make sure you don’t forget about my needs while you’re out helping ponies.” A sly smile and a wink accompanied Shining's words, the actions eliciting a giggle from Cadence.

“This is a public park Shining, someone could see us here.” Cadence peeked over her shoulder as she spoke, suddenly feeling like she was being watched. Disproving her fears, Cadence turned back to Shining, his face still holding the same expression.

Gazing across the lake looking for something else to occupy her vision but Shining’s silly grin, Cadence found a bright light catching her eye, forcing her to squint in defence. Shining had noticed it too, his hoof already blocking the path to his eyes. “Looks like the sun’s showing itself again.”

Peeking from behind the cover of her foreleg, Cadence confirmed Shining’s statement with herself. The sun had sunk below the blockade of leaves before them, its light peeking between the scattering of trunks, an irritation to her eyes.

Twisting back to face Cadence, Shining pulled her gaze to meet his, arousal obvious in his eyes. “It looks like no one ever comes here anyway, can’t we have just a little fun?”

Ignoring his begging expression, Cadence turned back to watch the sinking sun, its dying yellow dancing in the forest. “You can wait till we get home.” Her eyes rolled without thought, an instinctual reaction to Shining’s untimely cravings for both her and food. “Why don’t we just watch the sunset?”

Sighing, Shining recognized Cadence’s body language, an obvious tell pleading was going to get him nowhere. He returned his focus to the fading sunlight, wincing occasionally as a harsh flicker grazed his vision.

Silence joined the pair, a comforting companion that settled their thoughts, allowed them time to reflect on the day’s events. Cadence’s head slowly drifted into the cradle of Shining’s neck, her breathing slowing to match his.

The perfect surface of water before them stirred, a tiny ripple disturbing the mirror. Another, a plink against the soft sheet of reflection, blurring it’s vivid image.

“Oh!” Shining’s cry jolted his whole body, disturbing Cadence’s peace as well, a trail of water running down his snout. Looking up he blinked in reaction to another projectile, Shining’s eyelid shielding his eye from the drop.

Another drop, this one splattering against Cadence’s horn, running down the grooves. On and on they came, an army of rain, it’s marching a soft pitter pattering against the grass. “We should probably get under cover,” Cadence suggested as she stood, making her way around the lake’s edge, under the forest’s protection.

By the time they reached the shelter of leaves both ponies were drenched, the soft steps of raining increasing its pace to a gallop, one hundred hooves against dirt. Like a wet dog Shining shook his body, painting the surrounding trunks with his coat’s contents.

Shying away from the horizontal rain, Cadence giggled as it caught her cheeks, a tickle against her already wet face. “Why don’t we dry ourselves properly?” Cadence’s horn lit with the blue of her magic, her coat shimmering with the heat of watery air as she evaporated the moisture from her body.

Watching Cadence magic the wetness away, Shining found an idea forming in his head, one that brought a wicked grin to his lips. Biding his time, he waited as Cadence deposited her collection of water onto the ground before he sprung.

“Ow, Shining.” Cadence’s cries melted into Shining’s giggles as he pulled her to the dirt, his still soaking body recoating hers. Laughter from Cadence joined Shining’s as the pair rolled on the forest floor, their fur collecting mud until they were streaked with it, looking more zebras than ponies.

Their travel was halted by a tree trunk, the collision leaving Shining sprawled underneath Cadence in an awkward twist of limbs. Taking her revenge, Cadence smeared a stripe across Shining’s grinning face with her hoof, some of it catching his teeth.

The reaction was instant, Shining lips and tongue fighting to clear his mouth from the intrusion, his face spasming with disgust. Easing Cadence from his body, Shining dashed from the tree’s cover, washing his mouth in the pond.

A push, Cadence’s hooves on his rear sent Shining falling into the water, a mouthful of water turning into a bath. Eager to clean the dirty stains from her coat, Cadence followed with a leap, the splash from her entrance blinding Shining momentarily.

Coming up from her dive for air, Cadence found Shining waiting in ambush, his hooves flicking water at her. Always hungry for play, Cadence pounced onto the chuckling stallion, sending both of them under the surface.

A watery kiss followed the light tussle before they resurfaced, panting, their lungs wanting air. Blue eyes locked with pink, a shared agreement for the battle to begin. Water flew between both parties, soft flicks and splashes mixing their sounds with playful laughter. A war won by both sides, joy their prize.

“We haven’t done that in years.” On his back against the water’s edge, stomach heaving for want to breathe, body still being pelted with rain, Shining lay with a smile across his face. “It makes me miss the times before we were dating, still two innocent ponies just having fun.”

In a similar position on the grass beside Shining, Cadence rolled her eyes at the sky. “I could tell from your looks you were anything but innocent,” She joked, joyful tone fading away with into sigh. “But I know what you mean, everything felt easier. Celestia’s tutoring consisted of little more than drinking tea and eating cake, now look where we are.”

Looking up, Shining watched the sun’s pink light slowly fade from the grey clouds above, his mind reminiscing in the past. “Maybe that’s what this trip is supposed to be about? A time to play before your real work begins.”

Still lost in memories of her own, Cadence murmured an absentminded agreement, the constant spatter of rain against her snout the only thing keeping her mind in the physical world. “If that’s the case, we better make the most of it.”