“Is everypony ready for the big night?”

Rarity practically vibrated with excitement, and it took every bit of Twilight’s not inconsiderable willpower not to laugh at her. She had sworn she would produce seven of the most glorious and regal Gala dresses in history, and had spent much of the intervening days working on them. Long after Fancy Pants had gone home, declaring her designs to be ‘fabulous,’ Rarity had obsessed and pored over every detail. When they’d finally been revealed so Rarity could get to fitting them, every one of her friends had been quite enthusiastic about the designs. Even Rainbow Dash, even if it’d taken a rather stern look from Cadence to keep her from elaborating on that enthusiasm.

In honor of the success of the designs, Rarity had insisted upon a full suite of gussying-up at the hooves of Aloe and Lotus before the Gala. Dash had tried sneaking out a half-dozen times already, only to be thwarted by the omnipresent spa ponies. Rarity and her compatriots were determined that not one pony amongst them was going to go to the Gala without being primped and preened to within an inch of their lives.

To be honest, Twilight certainly didn’t mind the attention. It had been ages since she’d been taken to a place like this, and while she certainly would never go on a regular basis… well, she was far from immune to enjoying being pampered from time to time. Rarity, on the other hoof, was clad in a custom-embroidered bathrobe that the spa twins had provided her upon entry, and looked like she probably could have found anything she wanted in the place.

Fluttershy had a gentle smile on her face, and gave a little shiver. “It’s going to be a wonderful evening, I can already tell!” She cooed softly, gently tapping her hooves together. “I can’t wait to get a good look around the castle gardens…”

“Yeah, well, I’m gonna be spending the night over in the VIP area!” Rainbow Dash proclaimed, her usually flyaway mane being artfully styled into a wild frill. “The Wonderbolts are gonna be there, and I can’t wait to talk to the Captain about the Academy!” She was practically bouncing in her chair, and Twilight had to hide her grin.

She had any number of surprises prepared for her friends tonight, but the one she most relished was the chance to introduce Rainbow Dash to Spitfire. With any good fortune, she’d be able to keep Dash out of Cadence’s mane tonight, and that would be the single most important thing… given that Twilight had her own very specific, very important plans for Cadence. Plans which would require them to be alone for a goodly portion of the night.

“It’s gonna be one epic Pinkie Pie Party!” Pinkie squealed happily, bouncing all the way to the ceiling and flinging water everywhere from her recently-washed mane. Aloe gave her a rather exasperated look and tried to direct her to sit calmly in the chair. Pinkie giggled and settled back down as Aloe settled the hair dryer over her soaking mane, and bouncing her head back and forth to some unheard tune.

“Jes’ so long as you keep the frosting cannon locked up, sugarcube.” Applejack muttered, crossing her forelegs over her chest. “Th’ last thing my Apple Brown Betty’s need is strawberry frosting.” Applejack had her forelegs crossed firmly over her chest and huffed, her hat set daintily upon a stand by the door. She didn’t much like this primping, but when Cadence had explained the attitudes of Canterlot socialites, she’d relented. Bizarrely, Applejack was incredibly well-versed in how to properly adorn herself for a high-society meetup. Twilight was certain there was a story to be told there, but… well, another time, perhaps.

And then, there was Cadence. Love Beat. Whatever. The mare whom, by evening’s end, was going to be Twilight’s marefriend. Fancy Pants was in agreement and she had Fleur on her side too. The pair of them were already putting plans into motion to ensure she had a perfect romantic evening all set up. Music, food, the ideal lovers’ playground for the pair of them, but most importantly: privacy.

Under ordinary circumstances, she would have formed these plans during the Summer Sun celebration. But her talks with Fancy had provided her more than enough impetus to give this night a chance. They would have time to prepare, time to put all of the elements in place. It would be a grand plan, the likes of which greatly appealed to Twilight’s sensibilities. Before the night was over, Twilight intended to do what she ought to have done years ago. She would finally dispel all doubt from Cadence’s mind that Twilight would stay by her side forever, through thick and through thin. And then?

Well, she knew what she was hoping for, but… “Twilight, darling, you look far too distressed for such a lovely occasion.” Rarity settled down in the chair next to her. “Would it be too much to ask what’s on your mind? I wouldn’t wish your night to be spoilt by ill feelings.” Rarity was keeping her tone light but quiet. Of all of her new friends, she was undoubtedly the most subtle. She too had dreams of love and romance, and Twilight had all too often felt her heart ache for the fashionista’s longing. It was a feeling she knew well.

So, maybe… “Probably the same things on yours,” she said quietly, her eyes unable to do much but drift to Cadence. She was giggling and gossiping with the spa-ponies, the three of them making for quite a charming group. “Love and the fear of losing it.” The words drifted off into a whisper, Twilight closing her eyes lest tears threaten to come forth. Those she would not be able to hide.

“Oh, darling.” Rarity’s whisper was sweet and gentle, and her foreleg curled around Twilight’s shoulder and squeezed. “Yes, I do know the perils of the daggers of love. So sweet, yet so very sharp.” Rarity’s voice dripped with sincerity, so much so that Twilight had to smile a little. “After all, you’ve chosen quite the flighty lady. No wonder your usual good cheer has gone a bit sour on you...”

Twilight nearly whipped her head around to gawk at Rarity, who wore a gentle smile and a look of pity. “My dearest Twilight, really. None of us are blind. We’ve all known your infatuation with Love Beat since you came to Ponyville. It was hardly a secret.” She giggled and softly kissed Twilight’s cheek… a kiss that left it burning, her hoof coming up to touch where those pillow-soft lips had landed. “You’re a truly beautiful, intelligent and singular mare, Twilight Sparkle.” Her words were too soft, too sly to be anything other than a straightforward flirt. Twilight’s cheeks burned even hotter, and Rarity tossed her mane with an elegant hoof and a mysterious smile. “Far too wonderful not to be appreciated properly.”

Twilight wanted to say something, perhaps a denial or a declaration of her feelings, but all her throat could produce was an adorable squeak. Rarity giggled lightly and slipped away while ITwilight groped at the empty air with her hooves, trying desperately to get her voice to work before Rarity got the wrong idea… And all too certain that she already had. Before she could get to her hooves to fix the problem though, Aloe and Lotus were upon her wielding all manner of arcane tools and makeup.

Oh dear.

Cadence could not restrain her excitement as the rhythmic sounds of the hooves pounding pavement began to slow. She bounced out of her seat, much to the six friends’ amusement and did a cute little canter in place. The little carriage was a remarkable feat of magic by Twilight and the four stallions providing transport were being well-compensated by Rarity. But more than anything, it was the sounds and sights of the capital of Equestria which held her attention. Ponyville might very well be a place of excitement, wonder, and pleasurable pastimes, but Canterlot would always hold a special allure for her.

Especially tonight, when this Grand Galloping Gala bid fair to be exceptional amongst the high society balls and fetes. Celestia had reportedly gone all out to welcome the return of her sister Luna to the court. Reportedly, Luna had acquired the services of a modern guide, who was to be her constant companion for the evening and assisted her in learning about how culture had changed over the centuries. Nopony knew who the guide was, though speculation ran rampant.

And equally wonderful was that Twilight was going to be her constant companion for the evening. Although it had broken her heart, she had had to tell both Fleur and Fancy that this night was to be her and Twilight. They would, undoubtedly, spend a bit of time with their mutual friends, but the bulk of the evening would be for them alone. Which was, as far as Cadence was concerned, just fine and dandy.

Her six companions, done up in some of the most unique and fine examples of the dressmaking arts, were all equally excited about their various plans for the evening. The only pony she was concerned about was Rarity, who in spite of her remarkable skill at grace and poise, had no experience with some of the foals who would be masquerading as stallions tonight, and there was simply no getting her to heed her warnings.

But as the carriage pulled to its final stop, she banished the worry. If worst came to worst, she would deal with the problem personally. The doors swung open, and a small cadre of guards saluted smartly from their posts by the gates. Spike hopped down with a cheerful grin and offered up his talons to any who wished for aid in descending. By the time all seven ponies were on the path leading to the brightly lit and much-bedecked Palace, Cadence could not help but feel a little twist of nostalgia.

One that was immediately quashed by a sudden blast of heat and fire overhead, and the reckless tumble landing of a very familiar-looking pony. “PURPLE SMAAAAART!” squealed Spitfire, Captain of the Wonderbolts in full flight uniform as she hit the ground running and flung a big hug around Twilight’s neck. All of Twilight’s friends stared, slack-jawed, as Twilight laughed and returned Spitfire’s enthusiastic hug as best as her outfit could manage. “By Celestia’s flank, what a getup! Rrrrrawr!” Spitfire enthused, purring like a grasslands tiger. “Tell me you’re not going to be busy all evening? Pleaaaaaase?” She put on her best wide-eyed pout.

Twilight laughed brightly, like chiming silver bells. “Sorry, Spitfire, I’ve got plans. But I’m going to be in town all week, so we can figure something else out for later.” She grinned suddenly, turning to Rainbow Dash, who looked like she couldn’t decide if she wanted to faint or drool. “But there is somepony I’d like to introduce you to that I think you might like spending the night with. Spitfire, this is Rainbow Dash, She-”

“Won the best young flier competition with a freakin’ Sonic Rainboom.” Spitfire finished, her smile sultry and wide as a mile. “Soarin wouldn’t shut up about it, and boy he wasn’t kidding about her looks either.” She waggled her eyebrows suggestively, and instantly Rainbow Dash’s cheeks flushed a cherry red that made Cadence want to giggle like Pinkie Pie. “So. Think you can keep up with me, kiddo? I don’t fly with slowpokes.” She pivoted and shook her flame-colored tail at Rainbow Dash, arching an eyebrow in challenge.

Which couldn’t have been more calculated to instantly kill Rainbow’s inner fangirl and bring out every inch of her competitive spirit. “Hah! We’ll see who’s keeping up with who!” She growled with a sun-bright grin, leaping up next to the Spitfire and tossing her mane to fix her with a steely look. “I’m the fastest mare in all of Equestria, after all,” Dash added challengingly.

Which Spitfire, equally predictable, ate up like soup. Her smile became a dangerous smirk, and almost in concert the pair of pegasi blasted off into the sky, trailing fire and rainbows. All five remaining friends watched in awe as the pair rocketed around the sky and vanished behind the castle, just in time for Rarity to gently take Twilight by the shoulder. “Darling, I don’t suppose you’ve got any other famous pony friends you’d like to tell us about? I mean… Just on the off chance we might meet them.” Rarity’s voice was just a touch tremulous.

Twilight’s cheeks colored, smiling faintly as she shook her head. “Oh. Good.” Rarity continued resolutely, regaining her composure... Then paused mid-step, turning with a wickedly amused grin, “Purple Smart? Really?”

Twilight sighed miserably as Cadence burst into soft laughter. “Don’t tease her, Rarity. Come on, we’re going to miss the party if we sit out here and talk all night!” At the reminder of what was to come, the friends’ faces lit up, merging with the crowds marching towards the castle. “After all, this is going to be the best night ever!” she proclaimed brightly, and in the distance what sounded like music rose to a vibrant crescendo. Oh, What the heck. she thought, lifting her voice to join in.

“At the Gala…”

All around Twilight Sparkle, the world was awhirl with color and sparkling gems, warm candles, and soft music. Waitstaff ponies she knew by name trotted by with platters of food and drink, while castle servants worked their flanks off to keep order. Her friends had scattered to the four winds to carry out their plans for this party, and Twilight was grateful that Rarity hadn’t tried to spring anything funny on her as soon as they’d walked in. After all, there was one very special somepony she wanted to see before getting her night going.

She stood at the top of the grand staircase, resplendent in gold and white silk that flowed beautifully down her body. Her multihued mane fluttered in the breeze, enchanted by the ancient magics of the sun itself. She was beautiful in a way that transcended the concept, and in those quietest moments when Twilight was being really honest with herself… You may need to save my heart someday, Celestia. She shoved the thought away, down deep into her soul, where nopony else could see it. She was going to help Cadence. She had to.

Celestia’s eyes lit up at their approach, and Twilight dipped her head low in a courtly bow. “I cannot begin to say how wonderful it is to see you again, my faithful student. I have missed you so.” Celestia’s voice was wistful, almost sad, so much so that Twilight looked up in sudden alarm, only to see her Teacher smiling fondly at her. Twilight suppressed a little sniffle of her own, and decided to completely discard protocol. Who cared if a few ponies were scandalized?

She raced up the last few steps and hugged the other most important pony in her life tightly. Celestia did not hesitate to return the affection, nuzzling her cheek warmly. Not for the first time, Twilight reveled in the warm, clean scent of Celestia’s coat. Like a perfect summer’s day, rich and sweet as apple pie. “I missed you too, Princess,” she whispered softly, wishing she had the time to bury her cheek in Celestia’s shoulder.

But alas, she did not. So she gently detangled herself as Cadence trotted up with a cheerful grin. Her dress had been sewn by Rarity too, a gorgeous combination of deep purples and pinks with a musical note motif. She leaned in with a courtly bow, and whispered softly, “Good to see you Auntie. Lunch tomorrow, right?” By the time she came up, Celestia had given a cheerful wink and a faint nod. Twilight nearly squealed in glee, clapping her hooves together.

Celestia opened her mouth to speak, only to be interrupted by a deep and powerfully-feminine voice. “Hark, sister dear. Praytell, did you intend to leave off our introduction to our savior?” Twilight turned, and felt her jaw drop a little at the sight.

She was resplendent in silver and moonstone jewelry, a veil of sparkling translucent blue silk draped around her body. Her eyes were bright and focused, a surprisingly genial smile upon her face. Set side by side with Celestia, it was an astonishing dichotomy of colors that probably would have set dear Rarity’s artistic heart to fluttering. “Ah, Luna. Of course not,” Celestia beamed, her smile so utterly joyful that Twilight could not help but grin in turn. “Dear sister, might I formally introduce you to Twilight Sparkle, my faithful student. And her assistant and our cousin, Princess Cadence.” Celestia winked slyly. “Who is currently in disguise on special assignment.”

Twilight bowed gracefully to her, only to hear a rich and rolling chuckle. “It is our pleasure to make thy acquaintance, Dame Sparkle. Thy brother has been most effusive in his praise of you.” Princess Luna’s smile was more than amused. It was… speculative.

Twilight felt a little jolt of shock at the mention of… “Wait, you know Shining Armor?” She felt a twinge of confusion, glancing back at Cadence, who looked like somepony had just cracked a board across the back of the head. “How? I’d thought he was still on Royal Guard training.” She wanted to glare at Celestia, who looked very satisfied with herself.

Princess Luna arched an eyebrow. “He has not sent thou a missive? He has been my personal guard since my return to sanity.” She turned and spoke in a slightly more firm voice. “Lunar Aegis Shining Armor, explain thyself. “

And then… he was there.

Even in spite of seeing him for the holidays every year, she felt a little shocked to see him in his uniform like this. His armor, once in the bright purples and golds of the royal house, was now in the deep blue and silver of Luna’s colors, a crescent moon carved from moonstone set into the center of his chestplate. His mane was cut a little shorter than it used to be, yet he was still every bit the big brother she loved. But…

But he looked nervous, and maybe a little scared. “Ah… My apologies, your grace.” He said in a firm, quiet voice. “I was going to tell her on Hearth’s Warming. I didn’t want to be seen as a braggart.” He turned to Twilight, and his smile was faint but warm. “But it is good to see you, Twily. You look good.”

Twilight giggled softly at the compliment, shaking her head. “Congratulations, Shiny. You deserve it. Does this means we’re going to see you around Canterlot more?” She couldn’t help but inject a bit of wistfulness there. Whatever else she might have lost with her brother, she never lost he desire to see him. She still missed him, even if Cadence…

Oh goodness. Cadence. She quickly turned… only to find her head guided back by a gentle press of Cadence’s hoof, and her foreleg wrapping around Twilight’s. “Might I add my congratulations, Shining Armor?” Twilight stared at Cadence, who looked… calm. Surprisingly so, though she was grasping quite firmly at Twilight’s hoof.

“Ah! Um…” Shiny visibly swallowed, heading bowing. “Y-yeah.. I’ll be assigned to Canterlot permanently now.” Twilight had never seen Shining Armor more desperate to get away, yet utterly incapable of removing himself from a situation. It would have been comical, if she couldn’t help but feel extremely concerned. His confidence was still there, but why did it look like he couldn’t handle being around Cadence?

Celestia looked like she was getting ready to speak, but Cadence beat her to the punch. “Might I have a private word with Shiny, Princess Luna? We haven’t seen each other in a very long time.” There was a strange brightness to her eyes, and oddly enough Celestia’s gaze sharpened. Why would Celestia disapprove of this? Twilight was beginning to think she didn’t have all the pieces of what was going on here…

“Certainly. I have wished to share speech with Dame Sparkle for some moons.” Princess Luna looked… very, very excited. She waved a silver-clad hoof at Shining Armor, “Go speak with our cousin, Aegis. We shall summon you when we intend to mingle with the guests.”

Shining Armor looked like the absolute last thing he wanted to do was to go anywhere private with Cadence, but nodded and marched in military step with her into a private study room just off the main stair. Twilight winced a little, and hoped that the two of them didn’t have even more history to hash out. Whatever might happen, she still dearly loved them both, if entirely in different ways.

But right now, she had been cornered by Princess Luna. “Praytell, Dame Sparkle, I hath heard much of your prodigious magical skill. Would you be so kind as to discuss with me some of what you have recently learned?” Well, maybe this wouldn’t be so bad….

“Ten years.”

“Eleven, actually.”

Shining Armor’s words were rough as Cadence stared at him in the bright moonlight streaming through the window. He wasn’t looking at her, and he had steadfastly refused to since they’d laid eyes on one another again. “You didn’t write,” she tried again, hoping to spark… something. Some conversation. Some words.

Shiny’s body language was all confused. He was oh-so fundamentally different than the colt he’d been when she’d seen him last. He wasn’t chiseled, but Cadence had seen enough professional soldiers to know the look of a trained and honed expert in the violent arts. Yet that look was at odds with his nervousness, or the sadness he reeked of. “I never could figure out what to say.” His words dropped to a bare whisper, and laying his head against the window’s glass. “And after a while, I was afraid to say what I could think of.”

The room lapsed into silence again, and Cadence wanted very much to tap her hoof nervously against the floor. Why in the name of Harmony did he have to appear tonight, of all nights? “Why?” she blurted out, unable to stop herself, the word burning a hole in her thoughts. He winced away from it, but it was too late to go back now. “What… what didn’t I do? What was wrong with me?!” She forced herself to stay quiet. The last thing she needed was Twily bursting in here and throwing her brother out the window.

“It was never you, Cadey.” He abruptly turned, those gorgeous, bright blue eyes boring into her. “Never. You were never anything but perfect.” He spoke roughly, as though a thousand emotions built up over a decade were all trying to force their way out at once. “I was young, and I was stupid, and I thought I could still have a relatively ordinary life. I wanted to get married, settle down, have some foals.” The confession had him marching across the room, an armored hoof gesturing wildly. “I wanted to retire one day, like Dad, and work at a library or something.”

He took a breath, his head dipping low. “And every time I turned around, Celestia was always there. Always subtly reminding me how important I was, and how good it was to have somepony dependable like me around.” He snorted heavily, falling to his flank at Cadence watched in fascination. “Always making sure I got the right connections. I felt like I was being herded Cadey. Like she had my entire life planned out for me, no matter what I wanted out of it.”

Cadence couldn’t help but feel a shot of pain at that statement, given how close to the truth it was. Even now, her aunt’s words during the Summer Sun celebration echoed in her mind. Ancient, powerful threats on the horizon, and Celestia scrambling to find answers to them all. He wasn’t wrong about what she’d been doing, and that simply made it all the worse.

Some of the tension had gone out of his frame, and he raised his head to look her dead in the eye. “And I know there wasn’t anything you could do about it, Cadey. But I couldn’t… I couldn’t have a relationship like that. And when I found out she was basically trying to turn you into this surrogate big sister for Twily, I just… I’d had enough.” He shook his head slowly. “And you don’t have to tell me getting sent to Stalliongrad wasn’t retaliation. I know it was, I’m not stupid.”

He snorted, grinning wryly. Cadence shook her own head, and giving a little, surprised laugh. “Then why aren’t you furious with me, Shiny? Basically, I was responsible for you getting sent into exile for a decade!” It was hard to say that, but truth and honesty were very important here. She didn’t know why, but they were.

He smiled faintly, taking a step over to lay a strong hoof on her shoulder. “It was a blessing in disguise, Cadey. I finally had a chance to stand on my own four hooves, to do things on my own terms.” There was a sly sparkle in his eyes, one of pride in himself that she couldn’t recall seeing since they’d graduated high school together. “I was angry for a long time, I won’t deny it. Angry at you, Celestia, even Twily. But… but I had a lot of time to think, and I had some good commanders and comrades to get really drunk with and talk it out.” His features split in a surprisingly happy grin. “And I got some perspective. It’s amazing how stupid stuff can seem on the other end of a bottle of vodka and good long cry.”

He squeezed her shoulder, gaze softening. “Look, we’ve got a lot to hash out between us, and tonight’s not the night. I just have two questions I absolutely want the truth of.” Cadence steeled herself and nodded. She’d been waiting for this question for a long time, but when it came it wasn’t precisely what she had expected… “The first one is the most important. Are you in love with my little Twily?”

Cadence felt all of the air rush out of her lungs, and reflexively retreating a step, dazed as her flank hit the ground. It took those moments to get a hold of her thoughts, and finally… “Yes, yes I am.” It was like a breach in a dam, the admittance of something, especially to this specific someone, that was years in the coming. She braced herself for the anger, for the threats if she hurt her...

Shining Armor just nodded, once. Whatever emotion he might have been feeling, he was concealing it well. “Then my second question is this: Will you promise to take care of her for me?” Gone was any semblance of steel in his eyes, any emotion other than wracking guilt and concern. She stared, shocked, until he finally sat. “I got my cutie mark because I wanted to protect her,” he said in the softest voice she’d ever heard him use. “To be her defender, no matter what threats the world threw at her. But I can’t be there for her now, not the way I’d need to be. But you can.”

His eyes lit up a little. “I need… I need you to promise me you’ll keep her safe, Cadence. No matter what comes her way, no matter what evil she faces or threat she’s forced to confront, that you will never leave her side.” Cadence felt her heart pounding in her chest, and she couldn’t help but wonder… was he asking her to do what she thought he was?

Cadence took deep breath of her own, and focused her emotions. She felt a little smile tug at her lips as she raised a hoof towards the stallion she had once loved so dear. She owed him, in a certain way, for what had happened to him. “I promise, Shining Armor. I’ll make sure she’s taken care of.” And oh, how loaded that phrase was. How incredibly potent and strong the declaration. She knew she was setting herself down an entirely new path, now… but…

But it was a path she ought to have been following since the start.

By the time Cadence returned and Twilight was able to escape from Princess Luna, she had come away with the profound feeling as though she had just been weighed, measured, and found quite pleasing to the moon princess’ taste. She was not entirely certain what to make of that approval yet, but she knew she had it. Cadence herself was unaccountably quiet, but she was also holding Twilight’s hoof as they walked, and seemed utterly unwilling to let it go.

If this were any other night, or if Twilight and she had just encountered any other pony, she might have tried to dislodge herself and give Cadence some space. But Cadence didn’t seem to want space. In fact, she seemed to want to stay as close as physically possible to Twilight without dousing the entire Gala in utter scandal But as much as Twilight enjoyed her proximity, the silence was driving her mad.

Fortunately, silence was one thing in her life Twilight could be guaranteed to never have in abundance. A rainbow blur came to a sudden halt next to her, with Cadence rearing back in startled surprise. Rainbow Dash’s eyes were wide, and her hooves latched on to Twilight’s shoulders. “You. Know. Spitfire.” She enunciated the words ooh-so-carefully, the barely restrained glee in her voice adorable as all get out. “Do you have any idea how AWESOME that is?!” she exploded with giggling glee, flying several swift circles around the pair of them. “Ohmigosh and she’s gonna introduce me to the rest of the Wonderbolts! You are the coolest friend, EVER!”

With that, she hugged Twilight fiercely around the neck and bolted off into the sky with a bright laugh. The pair stared up at her retreating friend, and Cadence spoke first. “Sometimes, I wonder if her confidence and ego is all just a big act.” She didn’t quite sound like she was talking to anypony specifically, but Twilight was still a little surprised by the statement. She glanced at at Cadence, who seemed pensive. “Like… Like she has to keep up the mask, because if she didn’t she’s afraid of what everypony would think of her.”

That was… odd. Very odd coming from her. What in the name of Celestia’s mane had she talked to Shiny about in there? “Cadence? Is something wrong?” Twilight felt concern lance through her and wondered if it was perhaps time to abandon her previous plans in the hopes of restoring Cadence’s good mood. The last thing Twilight wanted was to see her get depressed, and for just a moment she felt a stubborn flash of anger at her brother…

Which was dispelled in an instant when Cadence grabbed Twilight under her forelegs and whispered hotly in her ear. “Hang on, beloved.” Twilight’s gaped, having only heard Cadence use that word once before. Her jaw snapped shut as she was jolted into the air, Cadence’s wings beating hard and carrying them up through the empty upper halls of the palace in a burst of speed. The wind whipped through her mane as she flew, or, well, was flown through the castle.

Just as suddenly as they had begun, they came to a skidding halt, Cadence giving a giggle. “Oh-ho-ho-ho…” she chuckled, her illusion melting away and to reveal her true form, perfectly clad in her beautiful gold and pink dress. Her eyes were sparkling with mischief, “I know what I smell. Trying to get the drop on me, Twily?” Twilight glanced around… and felt her cheeks burn as she realized they were outside her old room in the palace, where undoubtedly Fancy Pants and Fleur had already prepared her requests.

Cadence shoved open the door, and within every flat surface had been adorned with a gently glowing candle. The scent of pungent ginger and sweet sugar filled the room from the platter of cookies on the vanity. Cadence laughed in delight and did a twirly little dance inside, clapping her hooves. “Oh, Twilight. What’s all this for?” She smiled coyly, swishing her dress back and forth with her hooves. “I thought we were going to spend tonight at the Gala, not in a bedroom…”

Twilight licked her lips faintly, and wished she’d had a chance to get more ready for this. But… well, when an opportunity presented itself… Go with confidence, Twilight Sparkle. Fancy’s voice echoed in her head, and she decided to heed it. “This was… for us,” she gestured with a slow spin. “I’ve made sure we won’t be disturbed or interrupted, no disasters, no guests.” As she came to a halt, there was an odd look on Cadence’s face. Something torn between happiness and worry. “Cadence…” She reached out, and took her beloved’s hoof, and pulled her in close. “I know this is going to sound insane coming from me, but… stop thinking so much and kiss me.”

For just a moment, Twilight feared Cadence was going to run off on her again. Then the worry on her face broke, leaving only the happiness behind. “Why do you put up with me?” Cadence whispered, slipping a hoof around Twilight’s back and tugging her in for a gentle brush of lips. “I keep running away from you and… and you deserve better than that.” They were hard words, harsh words, but Twilight wasn’t going to have any of that. Not tonight.

“How can I deserve better than the most wonderful mare in Equestria?” Twilight demanded, turning to face her. “Cadence, whatever else you might be, you’re a good pony. You might not be perfect, but who is?” She shook her head, and pressing herself insistently against her. “Now stop talking. I don’t need words to know you love me.” Even if she might have liked some words…

But Cadence shoved her off, and Twilight fell back a few steps in stunned surprise. Cadence had never pushed her away like that. What was she- “No. You do.” Cadence’s words were soft, and she looked like she was tensing to run… except she didn’t. Her horn lit up in a sparkling pink aura, and her eyes went soft. “I love you. Goddess forgive me for not saying it every minute of every day, but I do. I love you with all of my heart, Twilight Sparkle.” Her voice caught on Twilight’s name, almost like a sob.

Cadence’s horn was glowing ever brighter, and Twilight felt a warmth enveloping her body unlike anything she’d ever felt before. And distantly, strangely, she could… sense Cadence, somehow. “I love you. I love you I love you I love you I love…” She quickly descended into babbling, eyes filling with tears, throwing herself at Twilight and hugging her tightly, sobbing into her shoulder.

The magic in the room was growing stronger by the moment, and after a brief moment to shake off the shock, she recognized it. Cadence’s love magic was pouring forth en masse, spilling around Twilight, first like a warm cloak, and then flooding into and out of her bedroom to the castle beyond. She should have run off to get Celestia, or Luna, or… something. Anything. But she couldn’t. Not with Cadence like this.

She gently gathered up her beloved, pulling her in as close as she could. She had waited so very long to hear Cadence say those words with the passion she’d imbued them with, but now it felt a little hollow. What had Cadence been putting herself through? “Cadey… It’s okay,” she whispered, grabbing a napkin and slowly dabbing away the tears. “I know you do. I love you too.”

Cadence shook her head sharply, taking a breath and steadying herself with remarkable speed. “I’ve been such a silly filly.” Her lips pressed roughly against Twilight’s, nearly knocking her over. But then she shoved herself off the floor and Twilight did find herself on her back, Cadence’s body pressing down into her. The kiss seemed to go on forever, all heat and passion, the thick aura of love magic spreading a warmth through Twilight’s body that was growing by the second, especially between her nethers.

She tried to break free, but it turned out unnecessary as Cadence pulled away, panting. “But no more being silly. No more being afraid. I…” Cadence hesitated, then her eyes steeled, voice firm with passion, “Twilight Sparkle, will you be my very special somepony?” Her words were like pure magical power surging through Twilight’s body, her smile soft and hopeful, and then added almost bashfully, “Preferably forever?”

Twilight had been waiting so long to hear those words, it was hard to process them when they finally came. Hard, but not impossible. “What the fuck took you so long to ask?” She jibed, grabbing Cadence’s head to plant the wettest, sloppiest kiss she’d ever given somepony on Cadence’s lips. It was silly and a little crude, but she frankly didn’t care. In fact, there was precisely one thing she cared about in that moment.

She pulled away from the kiss, her horn coming to life to pull up the bottom hem of Cadence’s dress so her hoof could rub itself over the surprisingly elaborate lingerie underneath. Just what had Rarity been up to with her? Oh, who cares. It doesn’t matter. “Of course I’ll be your very special somepony, my Princess Mi Amore Cadenza. Forever, if you’d like.” She smiled tremulously, feeling a bit sheepish at how childlike the words seemed, though they were no less sincere for that. Then she pressed her hoof into Cadence’s nethers, and grinned wickedly. “Now why don’t you stop playing around and buck me silly?”

Cadence stared at her for a moment, then burst into laughter. “Oh, you’re on.” Her voice instantly turned sultry, a slow grin widening. “Rarity’s going to kill us for mussing up her dresses, though.” She purred softly, “Especially given what I’m about to do to you in it.”

Twilight’s eyes widened, and she could feel the pulse of Cadence’s magic through the air and a flash of light as a spell coursed down her body in rivulets of power. “Remember how I told you once I can do some things nopony else can?” Her voice poured forth in a purr as she leaned down to press the tip of her horn against Twilight’s. “Well, watch this…” For a moment, Twilight could only feel the faintly pleasurable press of Cadence’s horn against hers.

And then….

Twilight wasn’t sure what happened to her mind in that moment. Only that she could suddenly feel massaging ripples courescate down her body, like a thousand little hooves were pressing into her every curve and pleasurable spot and massaging vigorously. Her mouth popped open in a gasp of pleasure, and Cadence giggled. “Mmmm, do you like that?” Her giggle turned into a sharp moan, one that Twilight instantly echoed as the massaging feeling reached her marehood. Cadence growled sexily, licking at her lips. “And that’s just the beginning.”

Twilight gave off a soft meep, one that was followed by another sharp moan that harmonized with Cadence’s own sweet sounds. And when Cadence pressed the tip of her horn to Twilight’s again, she found her world focused entirely on the mare laying atop her body and the feel of every touch they shared. The rest of the world faded into blackness, her heart beating rapidly as she reached up and between her legs, pressing her hooftips into the familiar petals there and spreading them wide. Twilight spoke in a breathy, almost too quiet voice. “Please…”

Once again, her lover giggled softly, and Twilight saw the glow of Cadence’s horn brighten. The warm feel of her magic slid against her marehood, and Twilight wrapped her hindlegs around Cadence’s waist. Words weren’t needed anymore. Their horns pressed together, Cadence pushed her hips up against Twilights, and Twilight responded in kind. Magic flowed freely between them, coursing over and through their bodies, connecting them. It poured off of them in waves, and slowly seeped out from between the cracks in the door.

Their lips met moments later, almost with a static shock as they connected to one another. The magic was buzzing so strongly in them both that it crackled off of their bodies, leaving little jolts of pleasure when they touched. She could feel Cadence’s velvet-soft nethers brushing up against hers, sending waves of pleasure down her spine. She was getting very wet… and so was Twilight, feeling her breaths coming in rapid succession.

Their horns rubbed against one another, and she leaned up to press a passionate kiss upon Cadence’s lips, hoping to tease out her tongue for a little play. Cadence obliged, a soft moan escaping her lips. Her tongue was sweet and velvety, tasting faintly of shortbread cookies. The scent of fresh peaches hung in her mane, and Twilight reveled in the softness of her touch.

So many times they’d shared these touches before, but something felt special about tonight. Maybe it was the declaration, or maybe it was just because this was the Grand Galloping Gala. Or maybe, just maybe, Cadence had finally decided to give up thinking Twilight was ever going to do anything but love her. If it was the last, Twilight was incredibly pleased by the results. The slickness of her marehood rubbing against Cadence made her shiver… and then a warm, firm and fleshy feeling pressed into her nethers, spliting her open gloriously.

Twilight was caught utterly by surprise, and cried out in sudden pleasure and lust. Cadence smirked slyly, her magic pulsing up into Twilight’s body so intimately. Every time they’d done this, Twilight could imagine herself as Cadence’s sweet little mare, and every time she squeezed back on the magical phallus like it was the real thing. Trying to milk invisible balls to spread her beloved’s seed into her body. She’d even been working on a little spell….

But not for tonight. For tonight, they would make love as they were. The Princess and the Student. Twilight giggled a little, and felt her cheeks burn horribly as her mind naughtily replaced Cadence with Celestia for just a few very hot moments before the illusion was banished. Cadence’s magic pulsed deep inside of her, and she pulled those beautiful pink hips in to press that length in harder. “I said…” Twilight whispered, her voice heavy. “Buck. Me. Silly.”

Cadence growled aggressively, just like Twilight liked it, and began to do just that… so hard, so deep, so wonderfully, that Twilight didn’t even notice when the massive Love magic they were giving off flooded down out of her rooms and into the palace…

It would be three or four hours before the pair would finally disentangle themselves from one another, and stumble happily into the bathroom for a quick brush of their manes. A single glance up at the moon told them of the late hour, and Twilight chuckled. “I told the girls I’d meet them at Pony Joe’s after the Gala… Maybe we ought to just go straight there, and see who shows up?” There was no telling how the rest of their nights had gone. Twilight couldn’t hear anything, but her rooms were pretty far from the main halls.

Cadence grinned and flared her wings, doing a little prancing step towards the balcony. Twilight gave off a giggle and ran pell-mell across the room, leaping up to land on Cadence’s back and wrap her forelegs around her neck to hold on. Cadence vaulted up into the sky and the rush of air through her mane washed away the last of the fatigue from her mind. Cuddling was nice, but there was nothing like being taken for a flight through the air…

It was amazing how quickly things could change in just one night.

Twilight wasn’t quite sure yet what the specifics of the new normal would be, and she really didn’t want to think about it yet. There would be time to negotiate things, time to make certain they were on the same level together. Twilight, for herself at least, was now going to insist that wherever they went, and whoever they bucked, they did it together. That might make for a touch of awkwardness, but she was certain Cadence would be alright with that. Besides, I wouldn’t want to give up our other lovers either, she thought whimsically.

The trip down to Pony Joe’s was pretty quick, all things considered. The interior was quiet, but the unmistakable forms of her friends sitting amicably around one of the tables was a welcome sight. Oddly enough, every last one of them looked rather ruffled around the edges, and Rarity was nowhere to be seen. The door-bell jangled cheerfully as they passed through, and Twilight waved happily. Then she paused, as they all stared over her shoulder at… Cadence. Oh. “Um…”

Rainbow Dash, her mane even more ridiculously flyaway than normal, broke the awkward silence with a rough chuckle. “Well, that explains a lot,” she muttered, shaking her head. “Quit standing in the door like a lump, Twilight. This isn’t even close to the craziest thing to happen tonight.” Smiles, sheepish grins, and blushes broke out on the cheeks of all her other friends, and Twilight felt instantly confused.

“Um… What did I miss?” She asked timidly, and blinked in surprise as two cinnamon-crunch donuts were slid up next to her along with a large mug of hot cocoa. Spike was half grinning at her, a mischievous glint in his eyes. “Girls?” She turned to her friends, all of whom coughed softly and glanced at one another.

“I ain’t tellin’ her,” Applejack stated bluntly, her cheeks burning as bright red as one of her apples. Fluttershy, her dress much ripped and worn shook her head rapidly and silently, then hid her face behind Applejack.

Pinkie Pie just grinned, then nudged Rainbow Dash in the side. “Oh, fine!” Dash snapped, then laughed. “You’re all such prudes.” She shook her head before looking Cadence straight in the eye. “Celestia told me to tell you that you really need to get your magic back under control, Princess. Whatever you two were up to upstairs, It kinda… spilled over on the rest of the party.”

Cadence went stiff as a board for a few moments, and then let off a stunned groan and smacked her forehead into the table. “Oh, Goddess preserve me, I didn’t even think about that,” she mumbled into the wood, pressing hooves to her head as Twilight tried to piece things together. What was she forgetting…? “My love magic can be a very powerful aphrodisiac when I’m not careful, Twilight,” she finally said, wearily, and...

It clicked. And Twilight facehoofed. And all of her friends burst into happy laughter. “So. I’m guessing everypony had a good time?” she asked wryly, wishing the blush in her cheeks would go away.

“I got every last one of the Wonderbolts.” Dash said with a proud smirk. “Twice. And Spitfire asked for my address in Ponyville.” And at that, she did a cute little dance in place, causing the rest of the girls to dissolve into even more laughter.

Pinkie winked. “Not exactly my usual Pinkie Pie party, but there sure was plenty of creaaaaamy frosting,” she giggled brightly and licked at her lips. “I think I wore all those poor stallions out though. I hope none of them put a muffin in my oven!”

Once again, it was all Twilight could do. She facehoofed. “C’mon, AJ!” Dash enthused, nudging her with her elbow. Twilight stole a look at Cadence, and she was now on her fourth donut and just looked bemused. “Fess up! Who’d you end up with?”

Applejack grumbled incoherently for a moment. “Applejack protected and took care of me,” Fluttershy said quietly, and Twilight felt her jaw drop in shock…. which was followed by Rainbow Dash’s jaw too. Pinkie just giggled and grinned, and…. and Cadence had on a knowing smile. “There were some very mean stallions, and…” Fluttershy gulped, but smiled tremulously. “And she was there for me, and then helped me with my little itch.” There was something warm and sweet in the way she said that, that made Twilight want to hug her.

“Waitwaitwaitwait. Applejack. A fillyfooler.” Dash said slowly, her voice thick with disbelief. She rounded on the blushing, glowering Applejack. “You gave me crap for three whole years when you found out I swung both ways! What gives?!”

“Couldn’t hardly leave her t’ what she was facin’,” Applejack said stubbornly, glaring at Rainbow Dash with bright red cheeks. “An that’ bein’ said… well, I reckon maybe I was a mite foolish when I acted like that towards ya.” Her foreleg shot out and pulled Fluttershy close. “Details don’t matter, far as I see it. We’re all practically more’n friends here anyway.”

“Agreed!” Pinkie said brightly, then settled down with a quizzical look. “That being said… did anypony see what happened to Rarity?” She looked about, and all of the ponies at the table slowly shook their heads one by one. “But that’s funny, I coulda’ sworn I saw her when the Princess…”

At that very moment, the front door to Pony Joe’s swung open. What walked through that door was a sight Twilight would never be able to forget. Princess Celestia, her mane bright pink and wavy like any other normal ponies and also an absolute mess, and wearing none of her usual royal jewelry, slowly entering with Rarity tucked under her wing. Rarity’s mane was, surprisingly, also a complete mess, and she had a dreamy smile on her face that spoke volumes about the activities the pair of them had probably gotten up to.

Cadence’s jaw hit the floor, soon to be followed by everypony’s except for Twilight… who found her heart and mind convulsing with two absolute opposite, yet equally powerful emotions. One was a fierce and glorious joy that surged through her heart at the sight of her often distant, sometimes sad mentor and teacher smiling, relaxed with an ease that she had never ever seen in her before. The other… was a short, hastily-squashed surge of absolute jealousy towards Rarity.

The second, much more negative emotion Twilight quickly balled up and shoved down into her mind to deal with later. Which was good, because Celestia picked that moment to look up and smile with impossible beauty at all of them. “Oh… Hello there, everypony.” Celestia’s voice was faintly dreamy, and Rarity turned her head to see all of them - her eyes widening at the sight of Cadence. Celestia continued as though she barely noticed, “Did you all have a pleasant evening?”

Author's Notes:

Chapter 9 Will be slightly delayed, as this is finals week for one of my important 8-week courses, until Saturday the 8th.

Thanks for your patience!