Prologue

Author's Notes:

Hello Everyone, this is story number two from me. I will probably get into stories involving actual characters from the show very soon, but I'm sticking with OCs for now, until I get adjusted and develop a style.
Because this story involves an international adventure, much is left up to the mind of the author. I will attempt to avoid making wide-sweeping statements in the story to avoid stepping on anyone's fanon "toes". When in doubt, the world in the story will mirror the earth's geography, history and political systems, albeit with ponies, not people. I have no problem with you changing what I write in your mind as you read to fit your fanon.
Enjoy :)

“And Today's numbers are: 62...”

Got it.

“37...”

Got it.

“12...”

Got it.

“40...”

Got it.

“And 17.”

Got it.............Huh.
__________________________________________________________________________________

Dolce Tempo opened her door on a Friday morning to reveal a grinning purple unicorn stallion with an unkempt orange and black mane. She was about to greet her friend Wave Function before she was interrupted, in a loud manner.

“Pack Your Crap. We're going on a trip!”

The tired red pegasus was just confused at this point. Observing the stallion's right eye twitch twice in quick succession, she wondered if the young researcher and her best friend of many years had mixed black tea, sleep aids, and a long night at the lab (again), and was no having some sort of sleep-walking hallucination.

“Now, now, Wavius,” she cooed, “Did somepony spend too much time doing science?” she stepped forward, closing most of the gap between them.

Wave Function frowned. “No.”

“Did somepony stay up too late after he mixed sleepy time pills with good morning drinks?”

Wave Function's eyebrows lowered. “No! Well, sort of, but...”

“It's okay, Wavius,” Dolce Tempo hummed, “I'm going to walk you back home now. I don't want you insulting Applejack, eating all of Rose's flowers and falling asleep face down in a pond again.”

She took his hoof, only to have it torn away from her. She tensed her muscles, preparing for a wild goose chase through Ponyville to keep him from damaging property.

Instead of running, Wave Function stood firmly and began to speak.

“Do not condescend to me mare! I won the lottery last night. I was up all night planning this trip over the phone with a 24/7 travel agency. Now, go pack your crap!”

Dolce Tempo looked into his eyes, expecting to see only a glazed over look. Instead she saw a fiery sincerity his eyes displayed when he was on a mission. “You're serious...Oh... OH MY GOSH! YOU WON THE LOTTERY!” She let out a squee and hugged him.

“Yes ma'am. 12 million bits.”

Dolce Tempo's eyes widened. “What are you going to do with it all?”

Wave Function's brow creased in thought as he began to mentally make a list. “Well, I paid off all my education debts and my mortgage, sent a few hundred thousand home to my parents so they can pay off the house, sent some to my sister so she can surprise Mom and Dad by making a tuition payment, gave 4 million to charity, put another 4 million away as a little rainy day fund, and the rest, well, it's going into this little trip here. And of course,” his eyes narrowed slightly, “there were taxes.”

Dolce Tempo was awed by the list, but a sudden realization hit her when he had finished talking. “I'm not sure I can leave... I just got that lead role in Les Ponyables. It could be a really important step for me.”

Wave Function seemed unphased. “That's why I spoke to the director of the Trottingham theater and paid him 50,000 bits to choose a different musical for the quarter and defer your position in Les Ponyables to next season.”

“Really!? You're the best... but what about my second job?”

“Taken care of. Oh, also,” Wave Function replied as he scooted a bag full of golden coins toward her on the floor, “here's some bits to supplement the lost income for the next month.”

Dolce Tempo could do nothing but hug Wave Function, and he hugged her back this time, for almost a full minute.

“Our train to Manehattan leaves in a couple hours. Do what you need to and be at my place at 2. Bring your Equestrian Passport. And, Dolce,” he looked down on her with great intensity, “I have three words for you. If you could only choose three words from all of our time together to remember, it would be these three.” He brought his muzzle within inches of hers, staring directly into her eyes.

“Pack your crap.”

Manehattan

“All aboard!”

The unbelievably frilly train was stopped in front of Ponyville Station. Two ponies, flanked by large suitcases, stood before the open doors, both apprehensive to take the first steps on their 'world tour' before fully appreciating the gravity of their first steps, the very steps that would mark the beginning of a life changing, memorable journey that would help shape their very values and attitudes for decades to come.

Then they trotted on the train, went to their 1st class cabin and put their crap in the luggage area.

Taking a seat next to each other instead of across the cabin, the ponies visibly relaxed, the larger placing his back hooves on the cabin's table and the smaller stretching her wings.

“I don't know why they make these things out of magically strengthened gingerbread and icing. I don't know how they get these trains up to code,” Wave Function pondered aloud.

Dolce Tempo just shrugged and popped a stick of bubblegum in her mouth. Silence reigned for the better part of a minute.

Then, the train jerked and started moving such that Dolce Tempo and Wave Function were facing opposite the direction of movement.

Retrograde, Wave Function thought.

Backward, thought Dolce Tempo and the rest of the normal ponies on the train.

After about 10 seconds of staring out the window, Wave Function spoke again. “So.”

Dolce Tempo turned to him, raising an eyebrow. “So.”

“We have a three hour train ride. What do you want to do?”

“What do you want to do?”

“I brought cards,” Wave Function said with a hopeful grin.

“Something else.”

Wave Function's ears flattened against his head. “Well, I mean, we could talk.”

“I had to do so much stuff to get ready in almost no time. I'm tired.”

“...Or nap.” Wave Function sighed. I guess I can just read Foreign Affairs while she sleeps. Could be useful.

Dolce Tempo closed her eyes, her breathing soon slowing and becoming regular. Meanwhile, Wave Function had opened his magazine and began to peruse the articles on the nations they were headed to in the next month. Some time later, he noticed something peculiar in an article about Saddle Arabia. He was about to continue reading, when the train began a turn prior to a bridge crossing a large gorge. The turn caused his slumbering companion to slide across the seat, leaving her head resting comfortably on Wave Function's chest.

...On top of his magazine.

Well, that's mildly aggravating. Might as well just sleep now too.
Wave Function slipped his right front hoof around Dolce Tempo. She stirred slightly. Then he closed his eyes.

The train screeched to a halt, sending Dolce Tempo stomach-first into the side of the table, and catapulting Wave Function head first into the floor, his back hooves still on the table.

“Ahhh! Ow.” They both cried.

At that time, a pre-recorded voice came over the train's intercom, prompting Wave Function to wonder, despite the damage his brain had just experienced, how gingerbread conducted electricity. “Welcome to Fillydelphia. All ponies headed to Baltimare, please transfer here. The next stop will be Manehattan's Grand Central Terminal. Thank you for choosing CelesTrack.”

Dolce Tempo rubbed her side. “I've never been to Baltimare.”

“I have. Trust me, you're not missing anything. Never go there. I like it when my friends stay alive,” Wave Function replied, righting himself and massaging his aching forehead.

The two sat back down and the train began moving again. The train clicked as it glided across the rails, and the two ponies sat back in the cabin's seats. They looked out the window, and, over the course of about ten minutes, watched the urban jungle of Fillydelphia fade away and be replaced with a shallow green valley and far off, the Eastern Sea. The sun was beginning to fall behind the horizon, sending magnificent beams of color across the sky and water.

“I'm sorry I didn't play cards with you.”

Wave Function turned to Dolce Tempo, raising an eyebrow and allowing a small smile to play across his muzzle as his friend kept her eyes trained outside the window and continued to speak, “I was tired. This whole trip...It's overwhelming. For it to happen so fast...I-In a good way, of course...”

The big stallion nuzzled his friend. “It's okay, Dolce. When I'm tired, I get that way. Worse, even. In fact, when you rolled onto my chest, on top of my magazine,” he motioned to the crumpled up tabloid on the floor, “I got annoyed, instead of taking it in stride.”

Dolce Tempo blushed. “...I slept on you?”

Wave Function chuckled. “Oh, I guess that's right. You were asleep when the train took a sharp turn. Sent you right into me.”

Dolce Tempo looked away in embarassment.

“Why are you embarrassed? Not the first time we've snuggled.”

“Well, y-yeah, but, it's different.”

The scenery outside took a sharp change in theme, as the sea gave way to suburbs and industrial ports. Within 15 minutes, Dolce Tempo and Wave Function were out of the train with their bags and inside Grand Central Terminal. They slowly observed their surroundings, both noting how crowded the station was.

“Wonder why Manehattan's so crowded?”, Wave Function wondered allowed.

“Well, Hinnie in the Hills is playing. Also, I think there's some big fashion show this week, or something,” replied Dolce Tempo, satisfying the stallion's curiosity, but also placing a note of worry in his head, that she may have figured out his plan. He floated their bags out of the terminal, with the intention of leading them to their hotel. On the outside stairs to the station, he accidentally bumped one of the bags into a passing businesspony.

“Excuse me,” Wave Function nonchalantly said.

“Watch where you're going, Bub!”, replied the older, rough looking stallion.

Wave Function narrowed his eyes and took a half step toward the businesspony. “Hey, Dolce, look! Our first jerk! Take a picture!”, he declared, never once moving his gaze from the stallion in a crumpled suit. The two sneered at each other and parted, the latter mumbling improper language under his breath as he trotted into the station.

“East Coast ponies,” Wave Function spat, “bet they can't even spell the word 'polite'.”

“My Dad is from Manehattan,” Dolce Tempo replied coolly.

“Yes, Dolce, I've heard the story.”

“And he was such a rebel in his youth that-”

“At the age of 12 he hitchhiked across Equestria to go to a 'Celestia Hatchet' concert. I've heard.”

The two continued to trot along as Dolce Tempo began her retort, “Well, at least my Dad doesn't hate you.”

“Look, Dolce, I've explained already, the parents just don't really...understand how you function. The things that you do, I know they're always done with the best of intentions; they just haven't seen that yet. I'll never stop being your friend, no matter what they say. You're more important than them to me.”

Dolce looked up and smiled warmly at her friend. What a sweet thing to say...

Then Wave Function's face took a sinister look as a mischevious smile came upon his lips, “BUT, that all being said, my Dad's still better, being a Midwest pony with an understanding of common decency and all.”

And, there's the Wavius I know, Dolce Tempo thought, rolling her eyes.

It was a good evening for a stroll. The city was slightly warm and breezy, and the two ponies laughed and pointed out buildings as they headed toward the waterfront.

They soon arrived at the Intercontinental Manehattan. Dolce was in awe of the hotel, and especially her whirlpool and balcony-equipped suite, but was shocked when Wave Function apologized for the accommodation and promised that compared to the rest of the trip, this was “Schlupping it.”

When Dolce had settled in, Wave Function entered her room. “Okay, so our boat leaves tomorrow at 8. I'll be waking you up at 6:30 for breakfast.”

“A boat!?”, Dolce Tempo inquired, “Where are we going?”

“That's a surprise, silly,” Wave Function replied, booping her nose with a hoof. Dolce Tempo growled.

“But right now, get some nice clothes on. We're headed out.”

“Where?”

“It's a surprise.”

“Please tell me!” Dolce Tempo managed to successfully pull off a pair of puppy dog eyes.

Wave Function sighed and slowly inhaled before he choked out his answer, albeit with closed eyes. “Fine. We're going...ugh...to see Hinnie in the Hills.”

All was silent for a few seconds before Wave Function managed to garner up the courage to crack open one eye. All he saw was Dolce's mouth open before letting out possibly the loudest fan girl squeal of all time.”

Yeah, Wave Function thought, tonight's not gonna be a whole lot of fun.

Author's Notes:

Next chapter will be longer. How will the musical go? Where are they headed that they need to take a boat? Ooooooooh, secrets, secrets!

Paradise Islands, Part 1

Author's Notes:

Let's see, who did I offend in this new chapter?
People who wear hats for stylistic reasons, engineers, hospitality industry workers, the Japanese, and the Chinese. Good so far, it's really starting to shape up.
This took a long time to write. I'll likely break up things like this into two or more chapters from now on.

Wave Function did not know where he was. He had transcended the realm of thought, it seemed. He was aware of some things around him. It was warm, and dark. Somepony was singing; it sounded like a faded hum. A pretty mare was seated to his right, an obese stallion to his left, encroaching on his space. He noticed these things, but he did not actually register them. While his eyes moved from a plain ceiling, to a plain carpet studded with tiny lights, to the fat stallion, he actually saw none of these things. His sight, like his mind, was mystically inoperable.

This phase was like a second, and it was like an entire day. What seemed like millions of ponies eventually left, seemingly pushing himself along. He managed to lift a spoon of a cold pink substance to his face, then his sight flashed to a single frame of ponies walking along the streets, the lights of carriages shining down a long avenue bounded by a canyon of skyscrapers. Everything was dark for a while, until he saw a cream colored pony with a red mane slap him with her hoof. He heard nothing but the impact, and noticed that the world was tilting. His mind skipped forward again, this time seeing the pretty mare who was next to him looking up at him with puffy eyes and wet cheeks. His senses all came alive at once, overwhelming his mind. He began to lose the little grasp on his functions that he had. A black dot formed in his vision, slowly expanding outward.

...Dolce? Dolce!

KNOCK KNOCK!

“BURGHAHFITLJGH!” Wave Function shot up, screaming gibberish. Looking around, he noticed morning sunlight streaming in from a window, which displayed the skyscrapers of Manehattan and the Eastern Ocean. Right. Trip. I forgot.
Pleased to once again be in control of his considerable mental faculties, Wave Function thought back to what he had experienced the previous night. A dream? No, it was too real to be a dream. A hallucination? Sure felt like taking too many sleep aids. But if it wasn't real, why can't I remember anything about what I did with Dolce Tempo yesterday evening?
KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK!

Wave Function grumbled and stumbled over to the door of his hotel room, opening it to reveal his traveling buddy. She took one glance at him and her eyes lit up with fiery determination.

“WAVE PROBABILITY FUNCTION! YOU TOLD ME TO WAKE UP AT 6:30 AM AND YOU'RE NOT EVEN AWAKE YET? LOOK AT YOU! YOU'RE STILL WEARING YOUR CLOTHES FROM YESTERDAY!”

Wave Function turned his muzzle down to see he was wearing a suit on his upper body, complete with an askew tie.

“In fact, I would slap you right across your muzzle if last night...wasn't one of the sweetest things anypony has ever done for me...”

Her rapid change in demeanor was accompanied by a tight hug.

She pulled back. “I mean, I ate some of the best food at dinner...”

Wave Function opened his eyes wide as Dolce's monologue rung a bell inside his head. Dinner, I remember that! A very fancy place, in the basement of a financial building. We were all dressed up. I got something with lots of cheese. Dolce ate with speed, violence, and passion like she usually does. Everyone looked at her funny. I loved every second of it! Haha! But after...I don't remember.
“And then the play...”

Ahh. Hinnie and the Hills. I remember, two days ago, yelling at the travel agent until she got tickets for me. That explains the coma, the amnesia, and the whole being trapped in my own mind thing. Art does that to my brain. The borderline concussion from the train probably didn't help.
“And then ice cream! And then I came back from the bathroom and saw Roseluck hit you in retaliation for eating all her merchandise back in Ponyville! And even though you fell over, and were bleeding from your nose and all the other ponies wanted you to go to the hospital, you insisted on walking me back!”

By this point, Wave Function began to develop a chronology of events.

“...By the way, I'm sorry for getting all emotional about Hinnie in the lobby and making you carry me to my room. You were a little quiet last night, did it get to you too?”

Wave Function decided now was the time to test if his brain remembered how to speak. “You could say it...affected me greatly.”

“I know! I just... I can't...Hinnie's sister...and...and... the villain, he...she...only loved...”

Dolce Tempo rushed forward and began sobbing into Wave Function's shirt. He draped a hoof over Dolce Tempo's neck and held her tightly to him. He walked back a few steps and closed the door, as she tightened her grip on him.

Wave Function wouldn't ever admit it to Dolce Tempo, but he didn't just put up with Dolce's emotions because it was the friendly thing to do. He enjoyed being there for her, it made him feel wanted. And the chance to passionately hug was was just as wonderful.

Dolce Tempo wouldn't admit this to Wave Function, either, but she enjoyed his embrace so much she cried louder to make him pull her tighter, and held on long after she had stopped.

By the time the two pulled away, there was no time for breakfast at all. Wave Function hurriedly placed his crumpled suit into his bag, levitated all of his and Dolce Tempo's bags in the air, and rushed them down to the docks, which thankfully were only three blocks from the hotel.

Dolce Tempo sighed as they neared the main dock. Ferries loaded to the brim with crying foals, bickering couples and picture-happy Japaneighse tourists were lined up all the way down the quarter-mile long dock. She had a very bad feeling about today's leg of the trip.

That feeling suddenly evaporated and was replaced with curiosity when they bypassed the main dock. She inquired, “Wave, where is our boat?”

“Right there,” He said, gesturing to a double-hulled, ultra thin yacht-sized boat that looked like something out of a science fiction movie. He grinned knowingly, “You didn't think I'd make you ride with the common folk, did you, princess?”

She stuck out her tongue at him, then growled playfully. Afterward, her ears perked up. “Where are we headed? You still haven't told me.”

“And I'm not going to, no matter how hard you beg for it. I'm staying strong; it's better as a surprise,” he said. “AND NO PHONE GPS ON THE BOAT,” he quickly added.

The duo walked toward the plank, and Wave Function removed their tickets from a saddlebag he had with him. They approached the front of the line laden with rich and distinguished ponies of all monocle girths, and a mare in front of them asked the crew member taking tickets, “Excuse me sir, but my final destination is the Spice Isles. Does this boat continue on or do I have to transfer?”

“Ma'am, our only stop is in the Paradise Islands, you should transfer to the number of the boat
printed on your ticket.”

Overhearing this, Dolce Tempo turned to her friend, completely overwhelmed. “We're going to the Paradise Islands?”

Wave Function brought his hoof to his face. Things never worked out for him if he tried to make them happen, it seemed. Little things like this didn't bother him too much, but it just went to show him how absolutely hopeless it was for him to hope something important would work out. The lottery ticket was just luck.

Dolce Tempo continued without waiting for any verbal reply, “Wave Function, it's supposed to be one of the most beautiful places on the planet. I'll never be able to repay you for it.”

Wave Function replied in stride, but his voice lost it's normal nonchalant tone and became authoritative. “This is for you. It's not to be repaid.”

Dolce Tempo was taken aback by his tone and words. She was about to fumble for a reply when a stallion with a beanie on ran down the pier to reach a smaller boat at the end. It was at this point that Wave Function's turned head revealed a refreshed glimmer in his eye, and he cupped a hoof around his muzzle, calling out, “HAH! GAYYYY!”

Dolce Tempo once again reminded herself that her friend was a complete goof, despite his tendency to occasionally act like more than one. “What did he do wrong?”

“Well, he wore a hat. There are two acceptable times to wear a hat. One is when you are cold. The other is if you are a no-nonsense detective with thirty years of experience on the force. Hats are not meant to be fashion statements; this is Equestria, not Prance,” Wave Function declared with just a hint of comedy in his voice. Although I suppose we'll be in Prance soon enough...
The two gave their tickets to the pony in charge and took a seat in their private cabin. Dolce Tempo, noticing that there were no beds in the cabin and noting that the Paradise Islands seemed very far from Manehattan on the map, began to wonder how they would pass the long trip on the boat. “Wavius, there aren't any beds. How long will the trip be?”

“Eh, should be 4 and a half hours or so once we get haulin'. It's an ultra-high speed boat; that's why the hulls are so sharp and the boat looks so science-fiction-y. An impressive ship. Covers the 1500 miles at an average speed of around 300 mph. Unbelievable it can go so fast; I bet the materials science team brought in some unicorns to strengthen the materials, it'd be almost impossible otherwise. I'd actually really like to model the velocity and acceleration vectors for...”

Wave Function continued to talk as Dolce Tempo realized she had forced him into a talking loop. She needed to stop his thought process right now if she was to have any hope of surviving the next several hours. She had been through this with him before. It was as big of a pain as getting him to go to sleep after mixing caffeine and sleep aids; and significantly less fun.

“Hey! If it's all science-y, why don't you go take observations and ask the crew about it and stuff. Learning, right?”

Wave Function looked at her, dumbfounded. “This ship was designed by ENGINEERS, Dolce. I am a SCIENTIST, and soon to be a physician. Asking me to admire their work and ask them about their process is like asking Princess Celestia to go study under the tutelage of a serf to learn how to farm potatoes. What was I talking about before? I forgot. Oh, shoot. It was important...”

It's Working!, Dolce Tempo thought.

“Oh! Of course, the ship! It's got super efficient radio wave amplifiers, back up fuel cell engines, salinity and temperature sensors, and a very important secret feature you'll see soon.”

The pegasus' ears perked up at hearing that, curiosity replacing her disappointment at her previous failure. She hated secrets with a passion. It was like everyone else got to have fun but her. Thing was, she had gotten really quite good at extracting them from her companion. He was so gullible; a slight whine, a bat of the eyelashes... “Tell me what it is!”

“No.” Wave Function was not going to fail at this to, like he did with everything else so far. “You'll have to wait and see. It's coming soon.”

“B-but, but...”

“If it makes you feel better, since you know where we're going I'll tell you about our accommodations. Much better than in Manehattan.”

The boat began slowly whirring out into the bay, weaving through the other assorted amounts of maritime traffic. The sun was truly starting to get high in the sky, the sea sparkling outside the cabin and it's motion reflected by the glass panels on the city's skyscrapers. The duo ignored the intercom introduction of the trip as they continued to parlay.

“...Ok. But I still want to know about the boat's secret! You're not off the hook.”

I'm off the hook, thought a relieved Wave Function. His red herring had worked. “I figured that all the resorts are crowded, and full of foals...even though one has a water-slide that goes through a shark tank...”

Dolce Tempo seemed even more depressed than he upon receiving the news that they would not be frolicking at high speeds with dangerous predators.

“...But, I got us something way better. It's run by one of the main resorts, but it's on the third-biggest island. A little out of the way, but worth it. It's a VIP type set up. We have a private Cabana that can house up to 6. Just for you and me. With a private hot tub, and pool, and bar, and beach access. And...” Wave Function relished in seeing his friend's eyes grow even wider than they were, “24/7 butler access.”

“Wave! This is so amazing!” Dolce hugged her friend in excitement, letting out little chokes and squees of excitement.

“Of course it is, seeing as I'm pretty amazing,” Wave Function playfully asserted, rubbing his chest with a hoof.

Dolce Tempo tried to come up with a sarcastic retort, but she didn't need to. The boat kicked into full acceleration at that moment, gluing both ponies to their seats. As the speed continued to increase, Wave Function (who spoke in a deep tone of voice unless surprised or startled) let out a medium-pitched shriek. “Dolce! Ooooooohhh my!”

Dolce Tempo scoffed as he held onto her. “You're such a mare. You have one almost-bad experience on a jet ski and suddenly you're afraid of high-speed water travel?”

Wave Function barely managed a coherent (and high-pitched) reply, “I'm not scared of the motion...It's fun... But at this speed if we so much as hit a rogue wave the boat could break apart and we would be effectively vaporized on deceleration!”

At that point both ponies held onto one another. After a few minutes of the boat weathering the bouncy sea without exploding, it became clear that the crew knew what they were doing and the two ponies slowly separated, with hot faces and ears.

The rest of the trip to the islands passed quickly. Light refreshments were shared, magazines were read, and perhaps most importantly, the planning of the next few days went on. Dolce Tempo wanted to go scuba diving near a reef; Wave Function pretended he was scared, so as to not give away his surprise.

Finally, the islands were in sight, far off in the distance. At this time, the intercom informed the crew to prepare for “stage 2”. A few seconds passed before the intercom buzzed again.

“Attention passengers, this is your Captain speaking. It's the moment that many of you have been waiting for. We just ask that you please be seated and refrain from standing until we are docked, and please obey the instructions of any crew members. Thank you.”

Dolce Tempo looked up at the smiling Wave Function. “What does he mean?”

The boat decelerated over a period of a minute or so, slowing to almost a crawl. Wave Function chose this time to reply, “He means this.”

A hissing sound was heard from the hull as the bow oriented several degrees downward and the boat began to sink downward into the water. At first Dolce Tempo was paralyzed with fear, but seeing the calm look on the face of the pony worried about their vaporization only a few short hours before partially assuaged her fears. As the water overtook their cabin window, they could begin to see the underwater world.

A massive coral reef was feet from their faces. Blues and greens and purples mingled with the browns and blacks of the ocean floor, as rays of sunlight streamed downward through the water, diffusing softly every which way. A school of neon yellow and purple fish fled from the boat, as a small shark followed it curiously, eying Dolce Tempo and Wave Function. The boat continued to descend, stopping only when a solid twenty feet of water was between the duo's cabin and the surface. Stunned by the display, neither pony could move or talk as the boat sailed over a ridge, revealing a veritable underwater valley lined with coral, kelp and natural rock formations, standing out in a background of the purest light blue. This new landscape was easily twenty times the size of the first ridge they had been so mesmerized by only seconds before.

Dolce Tempo couldn't take it anymore and stood up. Captivated himself, Wave Function could only put so much effort into his next joke of, “The captain said to stay seated.”

“Oh, screw you.” replied Dolce Tempo, turning her head to stick her tongue out at him for only half a second before returning to the natural wonder spread out before her.

“Now'd probably be a good time to take pictures,” Wave Function noted, without thinking about it too much.

“Yeah.”

A few seconds passed before the duo jumped and began scrambling through their bags to find their cameras, not wanting to miss documenting a single second. Soon the duo had videos and photos to show all of their friends back home, and within twenty minutes another hiss caused the boat to ascend.

Another ten minutes found the ponies on the main dock in the capital of the Paradise Islands, more than pleased with their journey on the submarine boat. Finding their passports with ease, they quickly passed through the very lax immigration check before making their way into the capital city.

The sound of steel drums playing in the background could be heard as small crowds of tourists bustled up and down the street nearest the cool waterfront. Tourist shops were sprinkled up and down the street filled with tropical-style buildings. A handful of brick and glass offices could be seen a few blocks away, and behind them, the towering buildings of the major resorts. Wave Function led Dolce Tempo a few blocks over from the main dock to a much smaller one of rickety wood. A Paradise Island native took them on a small boat to the island they were staying on, about 2 miles from the main island.

Wave Function tipped the driver and exited the boat with Dolce, only to be greeted by an overly enthusiastic beige earth pony mare who was clearly not from the area.

“Why hello there! Are you Mr. Function?” Wave Function nodded. “Ohhh, it's so good to meet you!” She threw her hooves around him in a big hug, which Wave Function only half-heartedly accepted. Dolce Tempo glared at the mare. “And you must be Ms. Tempo!” She offered her only a hoof, making her glare more fierce. Dolce Tempo softened her glare when she took her hoof, if only to put on a false air.

“It's so nice to meet you!” Dolce said with a great deal of emotion and emphasis on each word. One of Wave Function's ears involuntarily flicked at hearing her speak. He had heard that tone from her before; it was not a good tone. “And you are?”

That's it... Answer so I can put you on my list. Dolce Tempo thought.

“Where are my manners? My name is Private Suite, I work at the Grand Paradise Resort in the VIP getaways department, and I'll be your personal activity coordinator! Oooooooohhh!” She stamped all her hooves quickly in excitement before turning her gaze to Wave Function. “We're going to have so much fun!” The emphasis on the last word caused Dolce Tempo to growl, although she quickly turned it into a strange clearing of her throat.

“Ok! Well party ponies, it's time to head to your private bungalow!”, Private Suite said, flipping her purple mane flirtatiously in Wave Function's direction and turning toward the island.

“Actually, we haven't eaten yet today, so we're gonna do that first. Any recommendations?” asked Wave Function.

Private Suite turned back to the duo. “Well, sir, we have a fantastic international restaurant on the main island. It has multiple sections for each specialty, and world-renowned chefs work there!”

Wave Function frowned. “The main island? We just came from there.”

“I know, sweetie. I'm required to suggest there first. But...” Private Suite looked around furtively before continuing, “the locals run a place in town here. Incredibly tropical food. Very spicy. Think you can handle the heat, Mr. Function?” Her coy tone drove hot daggers into Dolce Tempo's mind.

“Yup. I like spicy foods. Capsaicin is my favorite. In fact-”

“Well then, here's a map so you can find your way to your bungalow when you're done. And here's a card with my manager's number if you need anything! I'll see you at bungalow number seven to give you the tour! Oh, I'm so excited!” She hugged Wave Function again, drawing a hoof down his chest as she released him. With that, she walked off slowly.

The duo started off towards the island's main town, which looked smaller but otherwise comparable to the larger city on the main island. Dolce Tempo spoke first. “You're so dumb.”

Wave Function merely raised an eyebrow, knowing she'd continue.

“I mean, that mare was flirting with you and you just stood there and took it!”, she huffed.

Wave Function shrugged. “Flirting? Huh. Didn't notice.”

“Exactly! You can act so dumb! She was just using you because she knows you're rich and wants you to tip her or give her a good report.”

“As I would expect anypony in the service industry to do. They're not that nice to me because they want to be.”

“Then why did you just let her!? I think we should call and let he supervisor know how she's acting!”

“My, my Dolce. Are we jealous?” Wave Function asked in a joking manner, his grin turning his eyes into slits. They widened again when she didn't smile back.

“S...Shut Up!” she pouted.

Wave Function's mind tied itself in knots. I was just joking, wasn't I? She's not actually jealous, right?

Lunch was fabulous. It was cheap, spicy, fresh and generally wonderful. From the restaurant in town it was only a ten minute walk to the bungalow.

When they got there, Dolce Tempo couldn't even believe her eyes. It was a two story wooden structure on a pristine white sand beach, that aside from having it's own pier that extended at least thirty feet out into the water also had a balcony on the second floor that looked down over the crystal turquoise water. The tour was a blur, and she was so enthralled with the full indoor bar, and hot tub, and rainfall shower, and the half-Equestria Games sized pool that she barely even noticed the flirtatious ramblings of Private Suite.

When they had been introduced to their butler, a local stallion who was clearly quite wise, Private Suite gave them a few more papers of information, then left with the butler, saying “I hope to see Mr. Function again very soon!”

“Well, Dolce, I'm going to put our bags away, then go shower, seeing as I haven't yet today. Why don't you get settled in?”

With that, Wave Function turned toward the master bedroom, levitating all their bags with him. Dolce Tempo's heart skipped a beat as he brought both sets of bags into the master bedroom with the ocean view, only for her heart to sink a few moments later (in what? Was it relief or disappointment?) As he emerged from the room with his own bags, putting them in one of the other, smaller rooms.

Dolce Tempo watched him close the door to the bathroom, confused as to what she was feeling. After she had brushed the question off, she spent the next few minutes writing in her journal. After that (and a drink at the delightfully well-equipped bar), she decided it was naptime.

She peered in the bathroom and saw nopony; she checked all the other rooms and he Wave Function wasn't there either. Where was he? It would be very rude to take a nap without telling him first.

Wave Function stepped out of the shower. His body was clean and in order, but his head, like the steamy bathroom, was clouded. I must just be tired, he thought.

Deciding that a nap would be the best option, he left the bathroom and headed toward the beach exit to the bungalow, where he had spied a hammock in the shade earlier. He noticed Dolce Tempo writing furiously, and after a few seconds of looking at her fondly, decided not to interrupt her.

The hot sand burning his hooves, Wave Function hopped, skipped, and jumped over to where the hammock was, between a group of tall palm trees. Settling himself in, he shunned thinking about the day so far, closed his eyes, and let the waves lull him to sleep under the cool shade.

Dolce Tempo couldn't believe it! He had just fallen asleep without even telling her! How rude. In fact, she even thought to check his room for him, and yet found him out here! Well, she wasn't just going to stand for this! She had to prank him! This required retribution, and swift-

*Yawn*

Suddenly, Dolce Tempo thought that the hammock looked pretty comfy. She looked at her friend. He was splayed out like a starfish, hooves in all four directions. I guess it wouldn't be bad to join him, right? He wouldn't mind. He sleeps like a rock anyway.
She gingerly climbed in the hammock, as a light breeze rolled in, swaying the hammock and blowing Dolce's mane to the side. She lowered herself down, resting herself on Wave Function's torso. She immediately let out a small hum of pleasure at the softness and heat, placing her front hooves on both sides of Wave Function's head. She nuzzled his chest, giving out a little moan. She enjoyed his chest most of all.

A new idea came to Dolce Tempo. She adjusted herself upward, placing her muzzle on Wave Function's neck. She inhaled, and was immediately hit with Wave Function's smell, the one that always made her feel happy and safe. She noted just a hint of hotel shampoo, as well.

Then, her plan went into full action. She exhaled over his neck, something at he loved when they were cuddling awake. He didn't move. Dolce was disappointed.

“unh...” Wave Function let out a grunt about ten seconds later, simultaneously moving his hooves so they flopped on top of the smaller red pegasus. She smiled, shuffling her body back just a few inches so she could nuzzle his chest again.

Eventually, sleep got the better of her, and she closed her eyes as crystalline waves rolled toward the shore and a breeze blew over bungalow number seven.

Wave Function opened his eyes. He could see the leaves of a palm tree, illuminated by a soft orange light. He felt heavy, and he looked down to find Dolce Tempo sleeping softly against him. She exhaled against his purple fur lightly.

He smiled. He had had this dream before, it was his favorite. He would wake up from resting with Dolce, caress her lightly, and she would wake up, smiling at him. He wished dreams like this wouldn't end, but at least they came every once in a while.

He pulled his right hoof from outside the hammock and ran it through her mane. She snuggled closer to him in her sleep. He took his other hoof and placed it on her back, lightly running it up and down.

Then he leaned forward, smiled, and gave Dolce Tempo a light kiss on her forehead. “Hey, beautiful. It's time to get up,” he whispered in her ear. He continued to play with her hair as she stirred.

Finally awaking, she lifted her head, looking at Wave Function. She gave him a small smile, though she was still groggy. Wave Function noticed her smile was different this time, more genuine than usual. But he thought nothing of it. She flopped her head back to his chest, letting out a groan of “mreehh”.

Wave Function felt her muzzle against his chest. It was hard... was he feeling...discomfort? That was unusual. He looked to his left, and ended up startling himself. Was that the ocean? And, come to think of it, that wasn't a sunrise. It was a sunset. He looked back at Dolce Tempo.

That all meant that she was real. And that meant...
This wasn't a dream!

“ALKFOJHSAGTXXISACCCLARKEXXKHOPAUHY!” Wave Function flipped out like a Chineighse gymnast who was far to young to be competing where she was. His freakout caused the hammock to flip with a great deal of angular velocity, planting him face down square on the sand, with Dolce Tempo on top of him.

“Wavius! I'm so sorry!I didn't mean to startle you but I was just so tired...”

“No, no, I'm sorry!” Wave Function pleaded, eyes wide.

Dolce Tempo looked puzzled. “Why are you sorry? I snuck into your hammock.”

Wave Function felt his face heat up. Does she know? “N-nothing.”

“You know I hate secrets! Tell me!”

There was only one way Wave Function could get out of this situation. He flipped over, despite Dolce Tempo's resistance, and began pushing his hooves in her belly.

“Aaah!” Dolce Tempo cried with laughter. “S-Stop!”

“No!” came the reply from the deranged serial-tickling stallion.

After a few seconds, Dolce managed to wriggle free of him and run away down the shoreline. He chased after her, catching up on the now cool white sand. But instead of pouncing on her and tickling, he tapped between her wings and blew past her “Tag! You're it!”

“Oh no you don't!” Dolce Tempo boosted herself with her wings, tagging Wave Function as he tired and then taking off into the air. “Tag!”

“That's not fair!” Wave Function complained. Dolce Tempo merely stuck out her tongue at him.

So, in retaliation, Wave Function levitated her down to the ground, tagging her. The two rolled around at the water's edge, the sea lapping at their back hooves, until they came to rest, Wave Function sitting on top as the victor.

“I win!”

“As if!” Dolce tickled him now, and he fell off, laying at her side. The two looked at the stars. “Wow, Dolce said. Look at all the stars here! So pretty!” They looked for a moment, the seawater now rising to their flanks, as the very last vestiges of the sun fell behind the horizon.

“You want to see something really cool?” asked Wave Function.

“Sure.”

It had been the better part of an hour and Wave Function had not revealed where they were headed. All Dolce Tempo knew was that it was dark, muddy, full of plants, and she was pretty sure that a snake had fallen right in front of her a few minutes ago. “Wavius, why did you take me here? My legs hurt, we've been climbing forever!

“I took you here to see this.”

Wave Function cleared the low hanging limbs in front of them to reveal a dark, flat area, and above, the entire night sky. To Dolce Tempo, it seemed to bend like an atrium, reminding her of a display in a museum. Each star gave out light like a small light bulb, illuminating the platform. The moon, too, was bright, but also emerald green, and so large it took up a quarter of the dome. It was the clearest, brightest, most beautiful night sky she had ever seen. Dolce Tempo was absolutely speechless.

“It's like this because there's no light pollution here. We're also on top of a dormant Volcano now. Almost a mile and a half above sea level. There's less air here to disperse the light.” Wave Function sat down in the center of the clearing. “Plus, we're close to the equator, so there are some stars here we don't see back home.”

Dolce Tempo stumbled forward and sat down close to him. He pointed up. “That one is the Southern Cross. I'm glad we came when we did; it'll only be visible from the southern hemisphere soon.”

“This is so amazing,” Dolce Tempo managed to say. “This is the best thing I've seen in my life.” She scooted closer to Wave Function, as did he, so that their flanks and sides were touching. “What's the curvy one with all the bright stars? “

“That's Hydra; it's a monster from an old pony's tale.”

Dolce Tempo noted the curvy imaginary line connecting the stars. It didn't seem like the monster she read about in the stories back in school. Her eyes were then drawn to the moon. She had seen it when it was white, and yellow, and golden, and even orange once or twice. She had never seen it so large and green though; it was hypnotizing. Her eyes were drawn to a small crater she had never seen before. It must have been too small to see back home.

“What's that crater? It looks so perfect!”

“That's a point of scientific squabbling,” said Wave Function, beginning his lecture. “There's a rumor going around that that's the pupil of the mare in the moon; where Princess Luna hit when she was banished. When that whole thing a few years ago turned her good again, and the mare in the moon vanished, they say that that one crater stayed there. The big fancy astronomer's association in Canterlot says it's a load of garbage, but don't really have any other theories.”

“What do you think?”

“Who knows?” Wave Function shrugged his shoulders, using the movement as an excuse to pull even closer to Dolce Tempo. “It's not like a whole lot of ponies remember what the moon looked like a thousand and some years ago.”

Dolce Tempo was wrestling with a question she decided to ask. “How do you know this place?”

“I just do,” Wave Function replied. “I know about all sorts of places and natural phenomena. I just wanted to share it with you.”

The two looked up in silence, as they slowly brought each other closer using wings, hooves and the like. Soon, they were just lying on the ground, Dolce Tempo's head on his shoulder, gazing up at the stars. If they never had to move again for the rest of their lives, both of them probably would have been okay with where they ended up.

Dolce Tempo yawned. Wave Function responded, “Maybe it's time to go back. We're tired and hungry.”

“Nooooo! Just a few more minutes!”

“Okay. But remember we have almost a week here to do this again.” He nuzzled her ear softly. She exhaled in pleasure.

After another few minutes had passed, Dolce Tempo spoke again. “Okay, we can go. But Wave,” she looked into his eyes, “thank you for taking me here. It was the most amazing evening of my life.” She nuzzled his cheek, lightly brushing her lips against his cheek. He smiled.

“I promise, this night will be at the bottom of the list by the time we finish this trip.” He began to get up.

“Nuuuuuuhhhh! Carry me!” whined Dolce. “I'm tired.”

Wave Function sighed lightly. “Classic Dolce. Ok, get ready!” He began to levitate her, surrounding her with a silver aura.

“No! Carry me on your back.”

“Why?”

“It's more comfy...”

Wave Function picked her up and placed her on his back as she wrapped her hooves around his neck and nuzzled his mane. As they headed down the hill, both were smiling.

An hour later Dolce Tempo had eaten some fruit, gotten cleaned up and was ready for bed. She was wearing a silk nightgown that Wave Function had gotten for her. It was really soft.

And that reminded her; she needed to find Wave Function before they went to sleep. She wanted to say good night, and to thank him again for the stargazing.

It didn't take much searching to find him. He was on the balcony overlooking the ocean. In the night, not much could be seen, and only the gentle lapping of the waves could be heard.

She walked up to him and saw he was crying silently. She placed a hoof around his neck. “What's wrong Wavius?”

“A lot.”

Dolce Tempo just waited. Wave Function sighed. His voice was full of hurt, and defeat. “Everything I do fails. Whenever anything big and fun comes into everypony's life, I'm the one who doesn't get to experience it. Everyone has all these memories and I don't have them because enough people hate me to keep me from being normal.”

Dolce Tempo realized that whatever he was crying about had nothing to do with the immediate trip.

“Everything I try to do turns out wrong. I don't get the benefits everyone else does. I don't get away with anything. And worst of all, because no one cares for me like I care for them, I get screwed by everypony.”

Dolce Tempo found her opportunity to speak up. “I care for you, Wavius.”

“Not like I care for you,” he said, his voice commanding, yet vulnerable. “Not even close.”

It was another couple of moments before he continued, “Everypony else never works and gets all these great memories. I work as hard as I can for things and in the end I end up alone, with nopony, while everyone else lives their lives to the fullest...Sometimes, I hate me.”

Dolce Tempo stood silent for a few moments as she contemplated his words. “I know what this pain is. I've had it, but for different reasons. Don't let it get the better of you...You and I will make enough memories on this trip to last for a lifetime. Other ponies won't even know what living is in comparison. Do you understand? I promise this.”

Wave Function stood completely still for a minute. Then he weakly nodded. “I'm just tired. Ignore me.”

“I'll never ignore you. You and me, we'll show the world. Understand?”

He nodded, this time a little stronger.

She walked up to him, nuzzling him gently. “Don't stay up too late, Wavius. We have a big day tomorrow. Good night. Thank you for the stargazing, it was really incredible.”

From her bed that night, she could see Wave Function looking out over the ocean on the balcony. She could see him standing there motionless until she finally fell asleep.

Paradise Islands, Part 2

Author's Notes:

I liked the length here. I'll stick with chapters of about this size. Sorry for the time between updates. Y'know, college and stuff.
New offended groups: Jamaicans, Zip-line tour guides

Extra points for the person who guesses what plot device happens next chapter!!

Wave Function lie in the bungalow’s side bedroom, covered splayed all over the floor and sides of the bed. He slept a dreamless, deep sleep, having been in dire need of respite.

And then there was a pressure on his muzzle, pushing it back into his face. A second after it started, it was gone.

And then, it came again. Wave Function’s muzzle crimped up involuntarily.

And again. This time accompanied by a noise, “boop”.

Wave Function began to stir, for the first time noting that the environment in which he had been blissfully unconscious in had begun to change.

The pressure again, this time harder. “Boop!”

Wave Function’s blue eyes suddenly became visible on his scrunched up face. He saw a red hoof come in to his muzzle again. “BOOP!” It retracted, then resumed its cycle with increased pace. “BOOP! BOOP! BOOP! BOOP!”

“Aergh!” answered Wave Function, flailing around in search of the comforter, which was promptly found and placed over his face. “More sleep. Stop poke! Please!”

“No!” answered the assailant, leaping on the bed and ripping the covers from Wave Function’s face. Her identity was revealed to be none other than his friend Dolce Tempo. She stuck her face right in his so their muzzles were touching. “You,” she accused, smacking his horn lightly with her hoof, “were a downer last night. And that means you made me sad. ON VACATION. You’re in trouble with me.”

“I’m sorry Dolce Tempo…It was a rough night, I don’t know what got into me. Will you forgive me?” Wave Function asked, with a small smile.

Dolce Tempo returned the smile. “No. Sorry isn’t going to cut it, Mr. Function. You must be punished for your inconsideration. I declare you will be punished with snuggles!”

“Well, I like that, that sounds pretty good.”

“Then I’ll withhold snuggles.”

“…I mean…nooooooo…not snuggles, my only weakness… it would be terrible if you were ever to snuggle me…”

“Too bad! I’m in charge now!” said Dolce Tempo, wriggling under the covers and hugging him from behind, nuzzling into the back of his neck.

Wave Function let out a small, “mmmm”, which was answered by a much louder growl from his friend.

“I mean, uh, noooooooo….stoopppp…” He applied minimal effort to the task of removing himself from Dolce Tempo’s vice-like grip, causing her to tighten her hug further.

He then relaxed and the two enjoyed their feelings of warmth and affection. That is, until a knock on the door sounded. “Mr. Function, its Private Suite! We have a full day today!”

The two shot up. “Crap!” Wave Function Whispered. “Hide under the covers, go!” He stood up from the bed. “One sec!”

He opened the door just a crack, revealing Private Suite’s face. “Uh, Hi.”

“Hello!” she replied, barging in to the room and looking around. “Wow, you really destroyed this bed. I hope you didn’t share it with anypony, because I thought what we had was special,” she jested, winking at Wave Function.

A deep growl emanated from under the covers. “What was that?”

“NOTHING. What’s the plan for today?”

“Well, your butler is setting out your breakfast now. Meet me out on the hotel’s private pier in town in about 30 minutes. Don’t even ask; it’s a surprise!” She trotted out of the room and headed for the bungalow exit. “Goodbye Mr. Function!”

Dolce Tempo lowered the covers. “I don’t like her.”

“Why not, she seems enthusiastic enough.”
“She’s a gold digger!”

“Well, she does work with rich people all day, every day. Come on, get up. Breakfast time.”
The two ate fresh fruit, sweet island root, and a variety of other delicacies for breakfast along with their butler, who joined to eat with them after much insistence from Wave Function.
“Excuse me, I’m gonna hit up the bathroom before we head out,” declared Wave Function, standing up with a groan and exiting the dining area.
The butler, who had been quiet thus far except for his insistence of leaving the ponies to their breakfast alone, wiped his mouth with a napkin and began to speak in his heavy islander accent, “I hear you no like Ms. Suite.”
Dolce Tempo nodded. “THAT would be an understatement,” she replied bitterly.
“No worries for you. She only charm for money; your special somepony good stallion, I see the way he looks at you. He will not leave for her because you are enough for him.”
“Oh, he’s not really my special somepony. We’re just best friends.”

“Oh. I see…” The butler stared off over the open balcony toward the ocean. “Then maybe you do have problem.” He silently stood and began clearing the table, leaving Dolce Tempo alone with her thoughts.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
The small boat approached a misty island with only a few markers of pony civilization. Stepping off the boat, the trio walked on to the beach, examining their surroundings.
Dolce Tempo was first to speak. “So what are we doin-“

“ZIPLINING!” cried Private Suite, leading them into a shed where they were fitted into harnesses along with some other ponies, so that the group numbered about 10 in all.
Following the guide, who appeared to be an apathetic college drop-out of some sort, they embarked up a hill in the steamy forest to their first line. Private Suite was the first to go, screaming all the way down in a tone that just about broke Dolce Tempo’s eardrums. Refusing to be left alone with her on the other side, or let Wave Function hear more of her flattery, Dolce Tempo pushed them to the back of the line.
When it was finally their turn to go, Dolce Tempo allowed herself to be hooked onto the line by the guide. “You scared?” asked Wave Function tauntingly.

Never one to be outdone or mocked, Dolce Tempo sprinted to the end of the platform and jumped, sending her friend a not-so-nice hoof gesture in the process. With only minor discomfort from the harness, she flew past trees and brightly colored birds, through clouds of steam and hot breezes. Emerging from the foliage, she saw herself suspended above a pristine lake, with walls of rock and a single waterfall. She could see fish below in the lake, moving in tandem as she approached the landing platform. Oh, I think I’m going to like this excursion, thought Dolce Tempo. This is way better than boring old regular flying.

Ziplining was a fantastic but tiring experience for the two ponies. Dolce Tempo got a good laugh on the last line, where Wave Function’s weight caused him to get stuck and the zipline guide had to shimmy out to get him. They left on their boat completely exhausted. Private Suite, on the other hoof, seemed as jazzed up as ever. Why did she even come with us instead of waiting? Thought Dolce Tempo.

“Next, before I let you go for dinner and whatever you would like to do this evening, we have shopping! There’s a fantastic district on the main island.”

The duo groaned, completely wiped out from their day already.

Private Suite began to talk to Wave Function as they left the boat headed into the town. “…So you’re a scientist-physician? Fascinating!”

“Well, I’m not a physician yet, but soon I will be.”

“Oh, well I’m sure you have plenty of experience making sick ponies better.” Private Suite brought herself closer to Wave Function so that their sides and flanks touched as they walked.

This was not unnoticed by Dolce Tempo, who was staring daggers at Private Suite as she did this. Trotting up from her position behind, she began plotting Private Suite’s downfall, and decided to punch Wave Function right in the muzzle if she found him smiling. Instead, as she walked even, she found his muzzle scrunched up in…joy, or disgust, or was it intense concentration.

Wave Function’s mind was at Defcon 1. Missiles were in the air.

Okay, so, she’s like, walking next to me and our sides are touching and all this. Why would she do this? She’s being friendly to get a good report, maybe? No, that wouldn’t make sense, she should be providing us with the best experience if she wanted that. Maybe it’s because this area of the island is dangerous? Certainly doesn’t seem like it…But that’s what the gangs of street urchins and packs of wild, stray dogs want you to think. Yes, I think this is the working hypothesis. But, then again, Dolce isn’t doing the same…
While Wave Function was laser-focused, Dolce Tempo saw Private Suite’s tail begin to swish more vigorously. She slowly brought it over to her right, toward Wave Function. That little- there’s no way she’s gonna try that with him. It will be the last thing I ever let her do.
Private Suite’s tail slowly began to intertwine with Wave Function’s and…

“AHAHHAHHAHHAHHHYTOIHPOIHOPGAIOSGFIPH!!!” Wave Function screamed and jumped a good four feet in the air, darting forward a dozen yards after he landed. “A BUG JUST LANDED ON MY FLANK! PRIVATE SUITE; IS THE MADAGASCAR PONY-STINGER ENDEMIC TO THIS ISLAND!?”

The situation was too perfect, and her fears too relieved, for Dolce Tempo not to burst out laughing.
“Oh, real funny Dolce! I could have died!”
Private Suite seemed irritated, and very flustered.

“Okay Dolce, here are some bits,” Wave Function told his friend after Private Suite was out of earshot. He gave her a massive bag.

“But friend, this is so much!”

“Psh, go buy stuff! I’ll meet you back at the dock in an hour!”

An hour of shopping had gone by when the two met again with Private Suite and returned to the secondary island in the archipelago. Walking them back to their door, Private Suite said an extended goodbye to Wave Function, promising to see him the next day.

“Private Suite, before you go, I grabbed you this.” He gave her a blue flower made out of plant resin and small gemstones. “The shopkeep said this was the type of flower always worn by the smartest and most powerful mares in the tribes here. Take it as thanks for being our tour guide.”

“Oh, it’s so pretty Wave Function! Thank you.” She threw her hooves around his neck as Dolce Tempo stormed into the bungalow with her bags. He struggled to escape her vice-grip. Finally she let him go and turned to leave, calling back, “see you tomorrow, Wavius!”

Wave Function frowned deeply. “Don’t call me that,” he called out in a deep, booming voice.

Private Suite was taken aback. “Oh, I-I’m sorry, I had heard Miss Tempo call-“

“Don’t call me that. You are not Dolce. Goodnight! See you tomorrow!” Wave Function turned happily and entered his bungalow, leaving Private Suite stunned.

“Dolce?” Wave Function called as he trotted to her room.

The door flew open. “What is it!?”

Wave Function suddenly became worried. “Are you okay Dolce? What’s wrong?”

“Nothing is wrong! I’m perfectly fine!” she spat back, throwing a hoof in the air for emphasis.

Hm. I may be wrong, but she doesn’t appear to be doing fine at all. “Come on, Dolce. What’s wrong?”

Dolce Tempo turned from frustrated to a little sad. “Why did you let her walk touching you today?”

“Well, I guess I don’t know why she was doing it. I thought she was afraid of crime or something. Why does it bother you?”

“That’s not why doofus! She was getting all snuggly with you because if she sexes you up, you’ll tip her better when we leave!”

“Let me ruminate on this possibility…Yeah, seems plausible, I guess.” Dolce let out a huff of exasperation. “Well, you don’t have to worry about her at all, my sweetest Dolce. Don’t you worry, I have my eyes on somepony already,” he teased, pulling her into a hug.

Dolce Tempo felt a little better, but was exasperated by his teasing. She felt her face heat up as she turned her face to the side, “well, I didn’t, I mean…”

Wave Function released her. “Hey, I didn’t give you your gift yet.” He showed her another semi-permanent flower, this one composed of the finest swirls of tropical oranges, pinks, and reds. The petals looked like little hearts. “The tribal artist said this was only for the most beautiful bachelorette in the village, so I asked myself, ‘self, who does that sound like’”? He gently placed the flower in her mane, right behind hear ear. “There. A pretty accessory for a beautiful mare.”

This time, it was Dolce Tempo who pulled Wave Function in for a hug. “C’mon Dolce, there’s lots more for you where that came from!”

“More? But I feel bad, I didn’t buy you anything…”

“Tell you what, how about I give you the rest tomorrow, and you pay me back by being my date for dancing tonight? You did always want to go clubbing together, right?”

“Buck yeah!”

Twenty minutes found the duo back on the main island, the young night being illuminated by the signs of bars and clubs. Dolce Tempo walked next to Wave Function in silence, coming closer and closer until they were walking together with their sides and flanks touching. Feeling playful and wanting to hear her friend scream again, Dolce Tempo slowly moved her golden and black tail to the side, brushing against his flank. Instead of jumping, he merely shivered lightly and moved his tail over, mirroring her motion. Soon the two walked down the street illuminated with blue neon, tails intertwined and sides touching.

Soon enough they settled on a seaside club with a view and danced the night away together.

It was almost 3am when Dolce Tempo and Wave Function returned to bungalow #7, sweaty, smiling, and exhausted. They laughed, tired smiles pasted on their faces, as they entered the living room. “Wanna snuggle and watch TV?” asked Wave Function.

Dolce Tempo nodded slowly but happily, yawning. “But first, I need to shower, I probably smell all weird.”

Wave Function’s muzzle scrunched up as he tentatively asked a question. “Hey Dolce, I have a favor to ask.”

“Ok.”

“So, um, you don’t have to, uh… Please don’t shower?”

“Huh?”

“It’s just, I noticed at the club…you smell like you, but a lot stronger. I really, really like it.”

“Well okay! The shower was for your benefit anyway, I don’t want to do anything. But I am cold, can I put on some clothes?”

“Sure. Bring a blanket too. And…thanks Dolce. I know you probably don’t understand my obsession with volatile organic compounds.”

Dolce Tempo rolled her eyes. “Stop being so timid and questioning. I mean things when I say them. And I do understand the obsession; you’re not showering either, mister.” She trotted into her room.

Wave Function only had time to relax on the spacious and incredibly comfortable plant-derived couch and flip on the TV before Dolce Tempo’s door opened again.

She emerged, her mane falling in wild curls down her neck and over her shoulders. She was wearing a hoodie and tight leggings to protect against the cold, and she moved with purpose toward her heat source, Wave Function. Her clothes and movement highlighted her perfect figure. She looked good.

Real good, thought Wave Function, all his senses enamored with the sleek form approaching him.

When Dolce Tempo reached him, she flopped down on top of him unceremoniously, letting out a “MREEHHH”. She pushed him on his back, wrapped his hooves around his neck, and took a deep smell of his coat, making her shiver with feelings of delight and protection. Wave Function smelled her right back, himself overcome with feelings of affection, emotional bliss, and physical stimulation. The two ponies just lie there for a while, smelling each other and rubbing hooves around comfortingly in what any bystander would find an unorthodox method of snuggling.

Wave Function noticed at one point that Dolce Tempo had removed the flower from behind her ear and placed it on the nearby table. Picking it up, he slowly slid it behind her ear again, and began smoothing her mane. She looked up expectantly at him.

NOW! DO IT! KISS HER! Cried Wave Function’s risk-taker sense, in an unexpected outburst.

Wave Function mentally shrugged. ‘Aight. He moved forward about an inch.

No! It’s too risky! Wait until you know she wants to! You’ll ruin your relationship otherwise! Retorted his sense of risk-management. Wave Function halted his advance.

DO IT YOU WIMP!

NO! Not if you don’t want your travel companion to be a MARE WHO HATES YOUR GUTS!

In his mind, Wave Function pinched the bridge of his muzzle. Everyone shut up, okay? Formulate your arguments please. Maybe make a Pro-Con sheet.
PRO! You kiss the mare of your dreams and you spend the rest of this vacation romantically.
CON! If she doesn’t want you kissing her, she’ll probably slap you, not talk to you for a few days and an awkward air will be over the rest of the trip. She might even stop being friends with you. Pro of not kissing her: You wait until you’re sure she’s receptive, eliminating all risk, ensuring maximum kiss efficacy and leading to a healthy, affectionate change to the relationship paradigm.
CON OF WAITING! SHE WILL FIND A BETTER STALLION AND MARRY HIM. We all know she’s way out of your league bro, you don’t have a chance unless you seize the opportunity. If you don’t, YOU WILL LOSE HER FOREVER TO A SKINNIER, HANDSOMER STALLION, THEN YOU WILL GET PREGNANT AND DIE…ALONE.
Get pregnant? Whaaaa?

See? He’s delusional. Remember what happened the last time you listened to him instead of me?
You mean me instead of me?
Yeah, sure, whatever.
Wave Function thought back to Equestria Day two years ago, when his firework-modifying antics almost led to the death of a small foal. I almost killed a foal with a combination of pyrotechnics and gross-negligence.
That’s right. You gotta trust me here man, we’re all in this together.
Okay, but first I want to go over all the evidence again. I also need to take into account stare decisis. Where is my secretary?
Right here, Mr. Function.
Ah, good, there you are, Mr. Function. I need you to go take a look at the court history. Look for the case Function v. Function, decided in a 1-0 vote.
Off he goes into the archives. A scary place, that. Anyway, we should fire him and hire a hot secretary instead.
Are you mad? You know how hard we’re gonna get sued if anyone hears us thinking that?
Wave Function’s internal conflict manifested as a blank stare, as if he was looking at something behind Dolce Tempo. “Wavius?” she waved a hoof in front of his face. “Oh boy, I lost you, didn’t I?” She sighed and placed her head on his chest.

Wave Function made his decision, but coming back to reality found that Dolce Tempo had already fallen asleep on his chest. Smiling at the warmth, he began to watch TV. The weather channel showed a band of rain approaching the islands, with a mild tropical depression much further south.

Looks like we’ll get some rain tomorrow. Pegasus-free rain, at that! The world is marvelous.

With that thought, he himself drifted off to sleep.