Thespian lead the way to the platform. While they waited for the next train, Thespian explained the system. “There is a system map,” she said as she pointed with a hoof. “We’ll take this train to the Brooks, and then change trains to get to Manehatten. I understand that Canterlot doesn’t have a system like this.”

“Oh, no,” said Darkstar, “It doesn’t at all. There is the main train station for the Friendship Express, and that’s it.”

Thespian nodded in thought, “Maybe the city is built on too much magic to put in a subway. Still, you’d think they could afford to put in a trolley system. From here, as long as there are no delays, it will take forty minutes to get to our stop. It’s why you see very few pegasi down here.”

Darkstar giggled, “It took us longer than that to drive to your house from the coffee shop.” She gave a soft sigh, “As you know, Air Raid has few choices in transportation.”

“Imagine that drive during rush hour,” snickered Thespian. “We don’t have time to do it now, but after the show we can get transit passes for both of you. The system never closes, and the kiosk at Times Square is open twenty-four hours.” The train arrives and Thespian led the way on. “The yellow square is for handicapped ponies and their companions, so you can’t stand there.”

Darkstar followed the mare to a spot on the train where they could stand together, “So, that is where Wily stands. We wonder if we should be standing there.” Thespian said nothing as she moved into the train and sat down. Darkstar sat next to her. “Sometimes we feel lonely.”

“That is what this is all about though,” said Thespian. “The road to independence. Finding out you can still be yourself and not be alone.” The elderly mare moved shoulder to shoulder with the unicorn. “If you find yourself lonely you can come to any of us.” Thespian giggled, “Maybe Coffee Bean will come through for you.”

“Thanks, that does mean a lot,” Darkstar smiled, “We’re sure Raid is enjoying not having to hold our hoof.”

“I think you’re enjoying it to.” Thespian stood up, “Here is where we change trains.” She led Darkstar out to the platform. She then pointed out the signs on the platform for her companion. “Those let you know what side to stand on as long as you know where you’re going. Sometimes you have to use a different platform for a different train.”

“It is a lot to take in. We…um, I will figure it out I’m sure,” said Darkstar.

The next train pulled into the station a few moments later. “You can see the line colour and destination on the front and sides.” Thespian and Darkstar moved into the train and sat themselves down. “I know you’re trying and I commend you on your efforts, but don’t be afraid to just be you, okay?”

Darkstar blushed, “I…We don’t want to scare anypony off.” She giggled, “At least one of us doesn’t.” Darkstar giggled some more, “See, we can appreciate our own humour.”

Thespian gave the younger mare a gentle nuzzle, “One day at a time.” She pointed to the system map on the wall of the carriage. “We will get off at sixtieth street station. The stop after that is Times Square. That is where my husband’s coffee shop is. Times Square station is where we’ll get you passes after the show.”

“It is nice to just be out of the house,” said Darkstar softly, “I’m usually in bed by now.” She spoke up, “Airmail’s paper is in the same building as Caffy’s shop?”

Thespian smiled, “My father owns the building, and he is on the Time’s board, which is why the paper is there. Of course, he was more than willing to let his daughter’s husband have an exclusive shop on the ground floor.”

“Oh, cool,” Darkstar said, “That’s impressive.” The mare giggled, “But that was as bad as me dropping Princess Luna’s name.”

“I know!” exclaimed Thespian, “I’m such a naughty mare.” The two shared a laugh at that.

Darkstar could only see her own reflection in the widow as the train moved along the underground tunnels. “I sometimes I miss my job in the little bookstore in Canterlot, but we think we’d rather be dancing.”

Thespian nodded, “Well, my production is filled up. Belle and Recital tend more towards show dancing. Serenity loves to dance, but not all operas give her the chance. Still, I’ll introduce you to my producer and see where that leads.” Thespian put a hoof on Darkstar’s shoulder, “Didn’t Airy offer you a job at the paper covering the theatre beat?”

“That’s right,” said Darkstar, “I’m currently an on and off journalist. I took that up way back to find Wily. We did have a try out for a Las Pegasus dancer, but it didn’t go so well.”

“You have the beauty and grace to be a dancer,” Thespian said, “Maybe with some training you’ll be able to change careers.”

Darkstar blushed hard, “Thank you for that. I have kept up with it as a hobby.” She giggled, “It keeps me thin and Raid does love to watch me practice.” Darkstar frowned, “The problem in Las Pegasus is the director we auditioned for didn’t like the illusions we cast while I danced.”

Thespian nodded. She noted how Darkstar would switch from first pony to third pony almost at random, but it seemed to depend on her point of view when she talked. “That will most likely always be the case. Raw talent over enhanced talent will usually be chosen. If you’re a headliner though, they will use all your abilities. Serenity’s talent lets everyone in the audience hear the entire production as if they were the only one in the theatre.”

“Yeah, we get that.” Darkstar remembered her earlier dance. “Serenity…She was the pony you saw when I cast my spell, wasn’t she?”

Thespian nodded, “Yes, it was a very good illusion.”

Darkstar beamed with happiness, “Was it really that good? But, if we may ask, it was a desire spell, so why did you see her?”

“Have you met her?” Thespian asked simply.

“No,” Darkstar shook her head, “Not yet, but Raid has.”

“Okay, well first I couldn’t imagine Caffy doing a pole dance.” Thespian smiled at Darkstar’s laughter. “Serenity has your build and beauty. She is very well accomplished as a dancer, singer, and actress. She has achieved things I only dreamed of achieving. Mind you, I’m very proud of my career, but Serenity has turned her career into an art form.”

“We can’t wait to meet her now,” Darkstar stated, “She sounds cool the way you describe her, it’s like Raid drives. When she races the car is an extension of herself.”

Thespian smiled, “She is down to earth for a unicorn, no offense, so, ponies feel free to chat with her on the street or in the subway.”

Darkstar tilted her head, “Unicorns aren’t down to earth?”

Thespian facehooved, “Me and my big mouth.” She looked at Darkstar and smiled, “Unicorns have magic that earth ponies and pegasi don’t have. I’ve been to many a dinner party where my hoofing things or just eating off the plate with no utensils have earned me a sneer from the unicorns.” Thespian giggled, “Then, my ‘whatever’ attitude, ends that pretty quickly. It does help that I’m a bit famous, and my family does have a lot of influence. I can’t say, I’m sorry to say, that I know more unicorns that lord their magic over others than those that do not.”

“I can imagine, and we didn’t take offense,” said Darkstar. “We just wondered what you meant, to be honest, Thespian. It feels really strange casting spells again, now that we’re able.”

“I’m glad I didn’t offend you,” Thespian responded, “And please don’t worry about offending me. I’ll be sure to tell you if you do.” The mare laughed, “Octavia found that out the hard way. So, don’t be afraid to ask me anything. The worse I’ll do is refuse to answer.”

Darkstar nodded, “We will, but I don’t think I’ll try levitating knives again. You’ve met Tavi?”

“Wrong!” said Thespian, “You will levitate knives again. You need to work on your magic endurance and that nick will encourage you to work harder.” She let that sink in before she continued after Darkstar nodded. “Yeah, it seems that Dusk fell into the herd with Wildfire. One thing led to another, and now Luna and Octavia have standing invitations to join in our activities. I do believe you’ll see all three of them on Thursday, if not sooner.”

Darkstar smiled, “It’ll be nice to catch up with Dusk. We all kinda drifted apart a few years ago. Only Raid, Brightstar, Cyclone and us still see each other, and I’m sure Raid’s only with me cos she feels she has to be.”

Thespian said softly, “You ever think she may actually care about you as more than an obligation or responsibility?”

Darkstar blushed, “Well I, not really. I guess. I just assumed I was her way of feeling better about what she did to Wildfire.”

“That may also be the truth,” responded Thespian. “In the end does her motivation really matter?”

“Hum, not really,” Darkstar said as she thought through it. “I suppose, I mean I’m still here and not six feet under, despite my best efforts.”

Thespian nodded, “So, best to dwell on the positive than to focus on the negative. That’s got me through a lot.”

Darkstar giggled, “You’re right, again. Suppose all that matters is we’re here, now, sorting a new start, with new friends, and some old ones.”

“That’s the spirit!” cheered Thespian. “Of course, taking a zebra for a mate brings along some other stuff too.”

“Yeah, we’re looking forward to what Coffee Bean brings us.” Darkstar sighed softly, “Zebras are dreamy.”

Thespian giggled, “That they are, but you do know the lot of them worships Luna.”

“I did get the impression that Caffy does.” Darkstar smiled, “We used to worship Luna too, when she dropped off her moonshine for our parties.”

“I’m sure she will bring some with her come Thursday.” Thespian giggled, “When is the last time you saw Dusk?”

Darkstar thought about it, “Let’s see now, it would have been before our attack, so four years ago.”

Thespian’s smile broadened, “’She’ is very pretty now a days.”

Darkstar looked puzzled, “She?”

Thespian smiled, “Dusk has become a very accomplished cross-dresser. ‘She’ has gotten lessons from a herd member, Trails, or I should say Shoe, when she is dressed in that manner.”

Darkstar sniggered, “Dusk, really? No way.”

“Way, if Dusk was to sprout a horn, he would become an alicorn princess.” Thespian giggled, “So, when Dusky is in dress, I have to remember to use the feminine pronouns.”

Darkstar shook her head, “Wow! I would have never expected that. Was it a dare or something?”

“Mind you, I don’t know the whole truth,” Thespian led off. “One day when Dusk and Vocal were in Caffy’s shop, my husband asked who would wear the dress at the wedding.” Thespian giggled, “He said it embarrassed both of them, but Dusk spoke up that he was willing.”

“Yeah, Vocal was a lot of fun,” said Darkstar. “I know Cyclone wore nappies on a dare, and she realised she really liked them.” She smiled, “Whatever the reason, I’m happy for him, her.”

“That’s the right attitude!” exclaimed Thespian. “He and Vocal broke up quite amiably. Dusk is now dating an earth pony by the name of Brush Stroke, but he likes the name Oils.”

Darkstar whistled, “He’s dating Brush Stroke? The painter, Brush Stroke? I guess as a prince he can afford to aim high.”

Thespian was taken back, “I didn’t know Oils was known outside the Manehatten area. He does have a painting in City Hall.”

“I covered an expo at Canterlot’s are gallery last year,” said Darkstar. “During one of my stable periods. I was mainly interested in the sculptures, but there was this painting by Oils, ‘Manehatten Skyline at Night’, that caught my eye. It was very well done, and everyone there was raving about it.”

“I shall have to tease him about that,” snickered Thespian.

“I’m sure you will.” The train came to a halt and Darkstar saw the station name on the platform. “This is our stop. That didn’t take long.” The platform was crowded with ponies coming and going. Like a scared foal, Darkstar moved out of the train with Thespian, and stuck like glue to the mare’s shoulder. To take her mind off the crowd that was sure to attack her at any moment, she asked, “Do you like art?”

As the unicorn beside her shivered and trembled, Thespian better understood why pegasi would put a wing over their partner. She moved with Darkstar to the nearest exit. “I like some art. I’m not one to really critique as my tastes tend toward realism.” It didn’t take long for them to reach the street level, but that didn’t reduce the crowds. “That’s my theatre, cleverly named the Fifty Ninth Street Theatre.”

Darkstar giggled. She realised Thespian was trying to keep her calm. She slowly relaxed as the crowd around her simply moved out of the way as they walked down the sidewalk. After they pasted the main entrance, Darkstar asked, “Aren’t we going in?”

“We are,” answered Thespian, “But we are using the staff entrance on the side.”

“I knew that!” stated Darkstar, who quickly followed up with a giggle as she moved alongside her friend down the next alley.

Thespian knocked on the door and it opened to reveal a stallion, “Good evening, Ms. Thespian.”

“Good evening, Cutter,” Thespian said. “This is my friend and guest, Darkstar, and she will have a backstage pass and comp tickets.”

Cutter made a note on his clipboard and he stepped outside to hold the door. If Thespian said this new mare got a pass, he would make sure she got a pass. “Got it, Ms. Thespian. I’ll pass the word.”

“Thank you, Cutter,” Thespian stepped through the door.

“Hi,” said Darkstar meekly as she followed Thespian into the building, “And thanks, Cutter.” The stallion nodded. Darkstar looked around as she followed Thespian. Backstage they passed one hall way and turned down the second. The first door on the right had a star with the name Scarlet under it. On the left was a star with the name Trotter under it. Thespian entered the second door on the right. Inside were three chairs and Thespian moved to the second chair. “Nice,” said Darkstar. “Who else is in here?”

“Just me,” replied Thespian. “First chair is for Scarlet’s understudy when she has a day off. Scarlet is the leading actress.”

Darkstar nodded, “I saw her name on the door. Across the hall was Trotter.”

“He is the leading actor,” continued Thespian. “The third chair is for a new makeup artist to practice on some pony, as it is quiet in this room. Here is your pass.” She hoofed a card over to Darkstar. “It’s a box seat, with a good view. If you’re going to sit there you need to make your way about five minutes before the show starts.”

Darkstar took the pass. “Okay, we were just wondering. Is it okay we look around?”

Thespian nodded, “With that pass you can go anywhere. Stage crew will let you know otherwise. Just knock before you enter any dressing rooms. The first hall is the dancers, this hall is the cast, and the last hall is management.”

“Alrighty!” Darkstar smiled, “Is there anypony we should look out for, or just be brave and explore?”

Just then, the dressing room door opened and a rather bubbly mare entered, “Let’s get you ready Thespy, I have…” she trailed off when she saw the unexpected unicorn. “Oh, you have a guest?”

“I do, Double Dash. This is Darkstar,” Thespian indicated her new friend with a wave of her hoof. “Darkie, Scarlet is a pegasus, and please don’t annoy her. Other than that, have fun.” Double Dash nodded vigorously.

“Oh, umm, we…I, I won’t, I promise. We just fancy a look about to see what a theatre is like.” She watched Thespian nod, and saw Double Dash get to work on Thespian’s makeup. Darkstar trotted out of the room and turned to the right. ‘We may as well start at the top.’ She knocked on Scarlet’s door. ‘Hope she doesn’t mind a visitor.’

The door opened and a mare peeked out, “May I help you?”

“Oh, hi, I’m Darkstar, a friend of Thespian.” She tried to look past the mare but couldn’t see anything, “Um, she said it would be okay to have a wander about and say ‘hi’ to ponies.”

“Oh, I see,” said the mare. “Scarlet is preparing for tonight’s performance, but she would be happy to receive guests after the show.”

“Okay,” responded Darkstar. “Cool, tell her to have a great show.” The door closed, and Darkstar just stared at it for a bit. ‘I don’t know if they like us, Darkie.’ She turned to look at the door on the opposite side, ‘What makes you think this one will?’ Darkstar snorted, “In for a bit.” She knocked on the door.

After some shuffling around, the door opened. “Yes?” queried the stallion.

“Hey, hi, I’m Darkstar, a friend of Thespian’s. Sorry if I’m interrupting anything.”

The stallion looked back into the room, “One of Thespian’s marefriends to say hello.”

A stallion’s voice from within the room, “By all means, let her in.” The stallion at the door opened it wide and stepped back.

Darkstar entered the room and moved along the wall away from the one that opened the door. “Um, hi again.” She looked at the other stallion in a dog costume, “Ah, nice costume.”

The one in the costume spoke up, “Hello there, I’m Trotter, and the rogue beside you is my companion, Last Minute.” He gave the new mare a good hard look over, “I haven’t seen you around before.”

“Hey. H-Hey Trotter, L-Last Minute,” Darkstar stuttered. “No, I’m. I’m new in Manehatten.”

“I’d say you’re from Canterlot, if I’m a judge of accents,” commented Last Minute.

“Long way from home,” added Trotter. “I hope Thespy is showing you a good time.” He nodded to Last Minute.

“Would you like a water, or lemonade?” asked Last Minute.

Darkstar kept her back pressed up against the wall, a stance that allowed her to see the whole of the room and its occupants and keep the door behind her. “You’re right on Canterlot. Thespy is a great hostess. It has been a great day so far.” She smiled at Last Minute, “Yes, please, a lemonade would be great, thanks.”

While Last Minute fetched the drink, Trotter continued to look the obviously nervous mare over, “Please come in and have a seat. I don’t bite, unless you ask very nicely.”

Last Minute snickered as he hoofed over the lemonade, “Then he bites hard.” Trotter stuck his tongue out at his partner.

Darkstar took the lemonade in her hoof, “Um, okay, ah, thanks.” She took a sip of the lemonade, but made no move whatsoever towards the seating pad.

“Are you okay?” asked Last Minute. “Should I get Thespian?”

“I’m fine, it’s just you’re stallions…and, sorry, I’m fine,” muttered Darkstar, the white mare feeling incredibly foolish. It didn’t help Darkie was laughing at her in her head.

Trotter smiled, “You hear that LM? We’re stallions.”

“We are?” questioned Last Minute. He ducked his head to look underneath his belly, “By Celestia’s left wing, we are!”

Darkstar giggled nervously, “Yeah.” She edged towards the door, “I just like to know where the door is, just in case.”

Last Minute put a hoof to his forehead, “It has been ages since I last ravished a mare.”

“Enough, LM,” Trotter stated sternly. “Can’t you see she is nervous enough? You don’t want Thespy after you.”

“Quite right,” said Last Minute as he moved as far from Darkstar as the room would allow. “I apologise for my poor humour, it can be a bit dry.”

“Other than Last Minute’s world-famous lemonade, what brings you to my door?” asked Trotter.

Darkstar took a deep breath, ‘They’re not going to jump us.’ Darkie replied, ‘Would that be a bad thing?’ She giggled and moved over to the seating pad, “Just introducing myself. Thespy said it’d be alright to say hi to ponies.” She looked over at Last Minute, “Look, I’m sorry for the nervy filly thing.”

Last Minute smiled, but Trotter spoke up, “No problem. Most of us here are just regular ponies, and no pony special.”

Last Minute added, “You have an interest in the theatre?”

“That isn’t why we…I was nervous.” Darkstar took a deep breath, ‘Chill, Darkie, they aren’t going to hurt us.’ She smiled, “Um, yeah, I like the theatre. I dance a bit, and I’m working at the Manehatten Times for another of Thespy’s friends.”

“The Times,” stated Trotter, “That would be Airmail then?”

Last Minute snickered, “Now there is a scary pony.”

Trotter nodded, “The first hall you passed has the dancers for the show.”

“Did Thespian give you a pass?” asked Last Minute. With Darkstar’s nod he continued, “If you don’t want to sit in the audience, I would recommend stage left to watch the show.”

“Yes,” added Trotter, “There is a stagehand named Spotlight, and he manages that side of the stage.”

Last Minute continued, “Take direction from him, and you won’t have to worry about getting in the way.”

“Okies, I will.” Darkstar stood and turned to leave. At the door, she summoned her nerve and turned back around, “I’m sorry about how I acted before. Thank for being so welcoming. Are you accepting hugs?”

Trotter moved forward for his hug, and whispered, “We’re all just ponies here.”

Last Minute received his hug and added, “But I’d leave Scarlet alone till after the show.”

Trotter covered his mouth with a hoof to suppress a giggle, “She has stage fright right up till the show starts.”

Darkstar smiled, “Yeah, the mare that answered the door said to come back later.” Darkstar looked between the two of them while Darkie whispered, ‘Tell them and they will kick you out of the room.’ The mare swallowed, “It’s not that you’re actors that bothered me. I was attacked a few years ago by three stallions in the back of a van in Canterlot, and well, I’m finally starting to get better.”

“Oh my!” exclaimed Trotter, aghast, who moved in for another hug.

“I’m sure being a friend of Airmail, she sorted them out,” added Last Minute.

As Darkstar accepted the hug, Trotter said, “Try not to judge us all by a few.”

‘I got hugs,’ to which Darkie remained silent. She accepted a second hug from Last Minute, “I didn’t know her then, but it has been sorted out. Both of you have been great, thank you, you’ve helped, like a lot.” Darkstar walked out of the room and turned right to the main hall. There she turned left to find her vantage point.

The area back stage was a bustle of activity and noise. Darkstar stayed out of everypony’s way and nopony stopped to question what she was doing. Rounding the backdrop, she saw a tan mare with a candle cutie mark looking up giving directions. Once she looked back down to check a list, Darkstar approached, “Un, hello, are you Spotlight?”

The looks at Darkstar, “I’m Limelight.” She pointed with a hoof, “That copper stallion over there is Spotlight.” While Darkstar looked across the stage the mare asked, “I don’t know you, what’s your job?”

Darkstar snapped her attention back to the mare, “Oh, I’m Darkstar. I don’t work here. I’m a friend of Thespian, and she gave me a pass.” Darkstar showed the pass in question, “And Trotter said I should find Spotlight at, ah, stage left to watch the show.”

Limelight smiled, “Easy mistake. Stage left is from the audience point of view. Always nice to meet one of Thespy’s guests, and Trotter is right, that is the best place to watch. Just follow Spotlight’s directions and you should have no problems.”

“So, do I just cross over there?” Darkstar asked as she pointed a hoof across the stage.

“Oh, no,” said Limelight. “You have to go around the back, not across. Safety reasons.”

“Thank you!” Darkstar turned and move around the back of the stage. The activity was starting to die down as was the noise. Once she rounded the far side of the stage she saw the copper stallion with a white circle cutie mark and bright red mane talking to a purple mare.

Darkstar looked around and most all the activity had stopped. Ponies were standing about chatting with each other in low voices. When the mare finished she moved past Darkstar with a smile. The unicorn then approached the stallion, “Hello Spotlight, I’m Darkstar, a friend of Thespian. Trotter said this was the best place to watch the show.”

“Okay,” Spotlight said, “Can you wear a headset?”

Darkstar nodded, “That’s no problem at all.”

Spotlight hoofed her a head set, “The mic is disabled, so don’t worry about that. Stay on this side of the red line.” His hoof touched it, “And the audience won’t be able to see you. If I say ‘Prep’ make sure you are clear of the orange shaded area. That is for cast changes. When I say ‘To me’ stand next to me, because they are going to do a scene change. Any questions?”

“Nopes, I got it. Stay on this side of the red line, stay out of the orange bits, and move, um, next to you when you say, ‘to me’.” Darkstar looked at the stallion.

“Enjoy the show, and it’s okay to cheer as the audience won’t hear you. Don’t talk to the actors during the show.” Spotlight snorted, “I know Thespian will talk to you, so she is okay.”

“I will, thanks.” Darkstar lit her horn and projected her voice behind Spotlight, “They might hear me.”

Spotlight simply looked at Darkstar and raised an eyebrow, “The audience ‘shouldn’t’ hear you, you scamp. Show starts in twenty-five minutes, and the audience starts coming in in five minutes. So, you need to be back here five minutes before the show starts or find your way to your seat.”

Darkstar giggled, “Okay, and don’t worry, I won’t do that during the show.” Spotlight went back to work with the stage ponies, and she wandered off thinking what to do next. ‘I could go check out the dancers.’ ‘Or we could go back and check out the stallions.’ ‘I’m not sure we should bother them.’ ‘They have lemonade.’ Darkstar smiled and headed for the star stallion’s dressing room.

Last Minute answered the knock at the door. “Hello again,” he said as he opened the door wide. “Didn’t chase her off after all.”

Darkstar cast her voice behind Last Minute, “Emergency lemonade inspection.”

Last Minute looked behind him and then back at Darkstar, “Ventriloquist?”

“Some sort of magic,” commented Trotter.

Darkstar giggled, “Just an illusion.” She cast a muffle spell on herself and trotted silently past Last Minute.

Last Minute moved over to pour Darkstar a lemonade, “Useful skills for less than reputable occupations. I’m happy you’re on the side of good.”

Darkstar sniggered, “More on the side of fun, with a side order of pranks.” She concentrated hard and turned the floor under Last Minute into a void.

Trotter was impressed, “I take you specialise in illusions.”

Last Minute did look at the void under him but trotted across as if nothing was amiss and delivered the lemonade to Darkstar, “Very realistic ones too.”

“I do, yeah,” gasped Darkstar as she took a gulp of the lemonade. “You could’ve,” she said panting like she had won the Running of the Leaves, “At least squeaked.”

“The theatre, dear, is a land of illusions,” snickered Last Minute.

“How long have you been practicing that?” asked Trotter curiously.

“I’ve had that spell for a while,” Darkstar said as she got her breath under control. “I’m just a little rusty when it comes to casting.”

Last Minute nodded, and said, “Feel free to practice on us.”

“Just not during the show,” added Trotter. “Did you find Spotlight?”

Darkstar nodded, “Spotlight is not Limelight.”

Both stallions snickered, and Trotter spoke to Last Minute, “Do you think we should have told her to turn right for stage left?”

“Where would the fun in that be?” commented Last Minute.

“She did point me in the right way, and explained what stage left and right was,” said Darkstar. “After that I found Spotlight and he gave me this headset and instructions, so I’m good.” Darkstar tried to cast her invisibility spell, but her current state of fatigue allowed her to make her front legs disappear. “Oh, buck it,” she muttered and released the spell.

“Thespy’s herd has some unicorns that could give you tips on endurance,” said Trotter.

“What you did though was very good,” commented Last Minute supportively. “For a moment it really looked like you only had two legs.”

Darkstar frowned, “I used to be able to do whole body, and even make my friends disappear too, before, y’know. I guess some tips would be a good idea.”

“Just don’t give up on us,” stated Trotter.

Last Minute nodded, “Good things come through hard work.”

Darkstar smiled, “You’re really worried about me.”

“You did seem to be overextending yourself,” commented Trotter.

“And we do like our audience to be alert during the show,” added Last Minute.

“Besides,” continued Trotter, “Since your friends with Thespy, I’m sure we’ll be seeing more of you, I’d think.”

“Yeah, I’d like to see more of you.” Darkstar giggled, “You’re both alright, y’know, now I know you aren’t going to ‘ravish’ me, as Last Minute put it.”

Trotter sniffed, “Ravishing is on the second date.” Last Minute broke out in snickers.

A knock on the door followed by a mare’s voice, “Ten minutes.”

Darkstar sniggered at Trotter’s joke, “Maybe if you were all stripy. You want me to go?”

Last Minute nodded, “Best to do it now before it gets hectic. You’ll need to get over to Spotlight, or make your way to your seat.”

“Alrighty.” Darkstar gave both stallions a brief hug. “I’ll be seeing you.” As she let herself out the door, Last Minute started fussing with Trotter’s costume. She smiled as the door closed behind her. ‘That wasn’t bad at all, was it?’ For once her other voice didn’t answer and Darkstar’s smile grew wider as she made her way to Spotlight’s side of the stage. As she rounded the corner she saw several dancers lined up. “Oh, dancers,” she said aloud.

In her headset she heard, “To me.” As the mare approached him, Spotlight continued, “You’ll have to wait till after the show to chat with them. Scarlet is coming out and I need it to be as calm as possible ‘till the show starts.”

Darkstar nodded and stood next to the stallion. She did study the dancers who were lightly conversing with each other. At five minutes before the show, all the dancers went quiet and were lined up in their place. Scarlet and Trotter walked around the corner and stood only a few feet away from Darkstar. ‘You could goose her.’ Darkstar fought hard to not laugh at Darkie’s comment. Scarlet was nervously dancing from hoof to hoof. ‘I think a simple boo would be more than enough.’ She felt smug knowing what she could do, but not doing it at all.

The music began, and the dancers poured out onto the stage to start the show. Less than a minute later, both Scarlet and Trotter moved out onto the stage to start their first musical number. “She is gorgeous. She looked as nervous as I feel. Is she always like that?”

Spotlight was constantly looking everywhere. “She’ll be good now. That first step is always the hardest for her. It is how she is, but you can see her performance more than makes up for it. We, as a company, have adjusted for it.” Spotlight smiled, “She does have the voice of an angel.”

Darkstar listened to the duet and nodded, “She does, they both have beautiful voices.”

She heard ‘Prep’ in her headset and made sure she was out of the orange zone. Thespian moved up alongside her and gave Darkstar a nuzzle, which she returned. Spotlight gave the actress a stern look, a gesture that Thespian answered by sticking out her tongue at him. She moved off onto the stage on cue. “I swear that mare will be the death of me,” muttered Spotlight to which Darkstar giggled.

The show went very well. Darkstar stayed out of trouble, and Darkie was happy to watch the show to let it stay that way. Thespian would always take the time to greet her when she entered or left the stage, which added to the fun. After all the final bows, Scarlet approached her, “Hi there, you’re Darkstar, Thespian’s friend?”

“Hey, hi, that’s me,” Darkstar replied. She noticed that Thespian moved off back stage without interrupting. “Please, you can call me Darkie.”

Scarlet smiled, “Okay, Darkie. We’re having a little cast party back stage so come and join us.”

“Go for it,” said Spotlight. “I have a few things to take care of, to include this.” He lifted the headset off the backstage guest.

“I’d love to join you, Scarlet.” Darkstar started to babble like a traditional fanfilly. “You were great! We, I thought you were great.”

“Thank you,” Scarlet said as she led the way to the party, “That means a lot from someone that knows Thespy.”

“Um, about that,” said Darkstar, “I only met her this morning.”

Scarlet giggled, “Silly me, I thought you were long-time friends. Still, thank you for the compliment.” The actress turned down the third hall and into a large room. A large number of ponies were in the room mingling and talking.

Thespian met them at the door, “Hello Darkie, Scarlet. Great performance tonight.”

“Thank you, Thespy,” responded Scarlet.

“Scarlet was really great, wasn’t she?” smiled Darkstar. “Oh, hey Thespy, you were good too.”

Thespian sat down and put a hoof to her chest, “But of course I was!” She held up her other hoof with a slice of strawberry cheesecake on a plate, “And this cheesecake is really good too!”

“Oh, I’m on it!” Scarlet moved off to the desert table.

Darkstar kept her voice low as she watched Scarlet move off, “I’m not into mares, but if I was, oh Luna, if I was.”

Trotter walked up with some cheesecake of his own, “Hello again, Darkie. You have a good choice of marefriends, Thespy.”

Thespian wiggled her eyebrows, “A lady can afford to be choosy.” She leaned in to Darkstar, “She isn’t into mares either, but I keep them guessing what I might be into.”

Darkstar cast her voice to the far side of Trotter, “Hey Trotter, loved the show.”

Trotter turned and looked, then looked back at Darkstar and did an eye roll, “You did have the best seat in the house.”

“Has Darkie been teasing you Trotter?” asked Thespian.

Trotter did a dramatic wave of his hoof and held it to his forehead, “To no end!”

Thespian smiled and nuzzled Darkstar, “He is a flirt, but committed to Last Minute.”

Darkstar giggled, “I thought you were used to illusions, sorry mate. You did say in the dressing room I could practice on you.”

“He did,” said Last Minute as he walked up, “And he is off stage.” He gave Trotter a nuzzle, and looked at what his companion was holding, “Oh! They have that cheesecake!” The stallion rushed off to the desert table.

Another mare walked up, a wide easy smile on her face. “Hello, I’m Hooftip.” She held out a hoof for Darkstar to bump. “How long have you known Thespian?”

Darkstar immediately bumped hooves, “Since this morning.”

“You do move fast, Thespian,” said Hooftip.

“Not fast enough it seems,” said Thespian. “It appears I lack stripes.”

Scarlet returned with her cheesecake and drink. “Caffy not enough stripes for you?”

“For her,” Thespian said as she pointed at Darkstar. “And I lack some equipment too, it seems.”

A stallion spoke up, “I don’t have stripes, but I do have the equipment.”

“You sure do, Highbeam.” Thespian raised an eyebrow, “But will Twinkles share?”

Highbeam blushed, “She has talked about herding.”

Darkstar looked at Highbeam and lit her horn. She pained the stallion with illusionary black stripes. “Now you have stripes.”

“Whoa,” commented the stallion, “I do look sexy!”

Scarlet laughed, “You do, Highbeam.”

Thespian leant in close to Darkstar, “I’ll get you some food and drink. Everypony is going to want to say hi to you.” With Darkstar’s nod, she moved off to the table.

Moments later, Darkstar started to breath heavy with the strain of maintaining her magic, and cancelled the spell. “Phew, you do look good in stripes, Highbeam.” Several ponies came up to Darkstar to say hello, but none stayed for a long conversation. Darkstar responded politely to any questions, and Thespian made sure she had enough to drink and eat. Scarlet had moved off to talk with another group, but the two stallions were still nearby. During a lull in the conversation, she said to Thespian, “I think I’ve made a few new friends, Thespian.” She nodded to Trotter and Last Minute.

Thespian smiled, “I think they are just trying to stay on my good side.”

Trotter raspberried Thespian, “As if!”

“Yeah,” added Last Minute,” We don’t have to anymore.”

Thespian tilted her head, “You think?”

Trotter blushed, “Ah, much?” to which Thespian giggled.

Darkstar also giggled at the poor unfortunate stallion’s plight, “Well, once I relaxed I had a great time, and your lemonade was amazing, Last Minute.” She looked over at Thespian, shooting the older mare a very meaningful look. “I need to relieve myself of all that lemonade.” She mouthed the word ‘meds’.

“As much fun as this is, it is time for this mare to head home,” said Thespian, catching and interpreting the look she had been given. “How about you, Darkie?”

“Oh, yeah, we can go, I’m ready too.” Darkstar looked at her new friends, “Thank you for being so welcoming. I’m sure we will meet up again.”

“Let me show you where the bathroom is,” Thespian led the way through the crowd. Each took long enough to say their good-byes until they were alone. “Let’s take care of business, and then we’ll head for the Times Square Station. I hope you don’t mind a bit of a walk.”

Darkstar was happy to relieve her bladder. “Not at all, that was a lot of fun. Thank you for inviting me.”

Thespian led the way out of the building, “It isn’t a long walk. That is where they have the twenty-four hour kiosk to get your subway passes.” It was a nice night and there were still lots ponies on the streets. “It is about a forty-five minute ride back to the house. You going to be okay?”

“Um, yeah, we’ll be fine,” said Darkstar, “We had a good time tonight, even if she kinda almost ruined it for me.”

“Straight back and talk on the way, or talk over some ice cream, and then go back?” asked Thespian.

Darkstar brightened up, “Can we get some ice cream please?”

“Welcome to Manehatten,” said Thespian. “The shop on Time’s Square is always open.” As they entered the shop, Thespian added, “They frown on food in the subway, so we’ll have to eat it here.”

“That’s fine,” said Darkstar as she looked at the menu, “I’ll have chocolate and coffee sundae with lots of whipped cream, please.”

“I’ll have a double chocolate fudge sundae, also with lots of whipped cream,” Thespian said as she placed her order. Once she paid for both, she added, “I’ll secure us a table if you could bring them over.” Darkstar nodded and she found an empty table for two.

Darkstar soon walked over holding both sundaes in her magic. After she set them on the table, she said, “I’m getting better at this! That wasn’t a real effort at all.”

“Just takes practice.” Thespian ignored the spoon and dove in muzzle first for a big lick of her sundae. She sat up with a good bit of whipped cream on her nose, “So, how was it you almost ruined the evening?”

Darkstar giggled, “You have a little something on your nose.” She leaned forward and licked off the cream and the earth pony mare smiled. “I knocked on Trotter’s door, and Last Minute let me in. After the door was closed, Darkstar started to panic. I found I was in a closed room with two stallions.”

Thespian nodded, “How did the drama queen, Trotter take that?”

“They were great! They offered to go fetch you when they saw how nervous I was, and that kinda calmed me down,” explained Darkstar. “After that I told them why I was so nervous, and they both hugged me. It was nice.” She copied Thespian and when in muzzle first for her first lick of ice cream. She sat back up, “I didn’t want to ruin your night.”

Thespian waved a hoof, “You have a little something…” She leaned forward and licked the cream off of Darkstar’s nose. “Dear, it is hard to ruin my night since I make my own fun.” She winked playfully.

“I quickly realised they weren’t going to jump me, and they were really impressed with my spells. Even Darkstar started to loosen up and have some fun.”

Thespian made another mess with her ice cream, “You saw our production. Two unicorns in the dance troop, one in the cast, and five more working backstage. So, you are both new and unique.” Thespian giggled, “Besides, you do have some fancy showmare magic.”

Darkstar leaned forward and licked Thespian’s nose, “Thank you, I was inspired by a unicorn named Trixie Lulamoon, and she was an awesome showmare too.” She dived in for some more ice cream.

“I’ve heard of her. She came to Manehatten to do a show.” Thespian leaned over to lick off Darkstar’s nose. “She is also very good at illusions.”

“Thank you again,” said Darkstar, “One word of advice, don’t ever mention her name in front of Wily.”

“Okay, I can do that,” said Thespian as she licked her bowl.

“Her first nightclub in Canterlot, Trixie’s Place, burned down on Wily’s nineteenth birthday, it was a nine-hour job, and she looked like Tartarus when she came back.” Darkstar licked out her own bowl.

Thespian frowned, “That’s sad to lose your nightclub.”

Darkstar shrugged, “It was her own fault. Trixie was experimenting with self-replicating fireworks. Inside.”

Thespian nodded, “Still sad to lose something you worked for, even if it is due to your own stupidity.”

“Oh, yeah, no doubt,” said Darkstar with a smile. “The next day at the funfair carnival was much more fun.” She saw that Thespian spent more time nosing her bowl than licking. With a blush she said, “We seem to have missed our muzzles.” She leaned forward and lavished Thespian’s muzzle with her tongue and followed up with a kiss.

“Oh my! Now that I can see past my own nose, you too seem to have had trouble with cleaning your bowl.” She expertly used her tongue on the unicorn’s face and ended it with a kiss. “Quite the pair we are. Tell me, Darkie, do you really need the meds, or was that a code word for ‘I need out of here’.”

“I just wanted you alone, so I could lick ice cream off of you,” Darkstar giggled and then sighed, her voice turning serious. “It was a bit of both, really. I really do need to take them, and there was a lot of ponies all pressing about getting close and talking and doing things.”

Thespian smiled, “Well, your ploy to get me alone has worked masterfully. Give it time for you to acclimate to crowds again. The theatre will not let you be lonely.”

“Mercifully, I didn’t make more of a muppet of myself in front of Trotter and Last Minute than I did. It was awesome watching you work.” Darkstar leaned forward and gave Thespian an unnecessary kiss.

“Still not a stallion, dear, so I guess your kisses aren’t working,” Thespian stood up. “I think you might worry as much as Raid does.”

Darkstar stood up and shrugged, a blush colouring her white cheeks. “Sorry…I wasn’t worried for me, they’re your friends.” She sighed, “Raid only worries when I get a hold of something sharp. Speaking of Raid and worries, she’ll be worried I’m so late getting home.”

“First, I called Caffy when Scarlet announced she was hosting a cast party, so Raid knows.” Thespian lead the way out of the shop, “Second, I think you’ve used up your ‘I’m sorry’ quota for the day. And last, my friends are friends, and they won’t leave me. My co-workers are from show to show and most of them feel they have some debt to me, so they aren’t going anywhere either.”

Darkstar tilted her head, “Umm, I have a quota?”

“Yes you do, only five ‘I’m sorry’ a day until you can earn some more.” Thespian smiled, “How long has that horn of yours been fixed?”

Darkstar stomped a hoof, “This is why I’m better off out of everypony’s manes! Then I can stop apologising for what I do.” She shrugged, “It was healed Sunday evening, so today makes it two and a bit days, why?”

“Why?” Thespian snorted, “Because you are charging forward like it never happened, and doing your best to do what you used to do. That is exactly what you should be doing. I think if you were out of everypony’s manes you’d be adrift and alone, Darkie. Just stop apologising for doing the right thing. Live Darkie, that is what you need to do now.” She brushed the unicorn’s shoulder with her own, “And maybe talk to Requiem, as she knows more than my two bit advice.”

Darkstar paused at the entrance, “It’s just hard, y’know? I have my magic back, I should be shouting it from the rooftops, and when the meds kick in I will. It’s all sunshine and rainbows, other times I just want to jump from those rooftops and finish it.” Darkstar sighed, suddenly melancholy, “Sor…I hate feeling like this Thespy.”

Thespian nuzzled the troubled unicorn, “You’re not a bother, and don’t think you ever are. You lost it all in an instant, and now you’ll have to take the time to find your way back. It isn’t easy, nothing worth having is.”

Darkstar wrapped Thespian up in a hug, and she wept, “I begged them…I remember pleading with them, to finish me off, when they were done with me, but they wouldn’t. Why? Why leave me like this?”

Thespian returned the hug. From what she had heard, her attackers had not intended Darkstar to survive the cold night. They had thought she would freeze to death slowly, from exposure. She decided not to share that thought. “So somepony could clean my nose?”

Darkstar snorted, and leaned back a little, “I guess your nose does need cleaning.” She gave the earth pony’s nose a lick.

“That’s good, as I seem to do a very poor job of it.” Thespian smiled, “Besides, dead is really boring I’d think. Caffy says we become one of Luna’s stars and that seems rather tedious. So, living at least gives us something to do.”

“Oh, I dunno. Wily would say it’s poetic. If nothing else, I can wake up each day and lick your nose.”

“Caffy is the poet. I just listen.” Thespian returned the lick. “Ready to head home? Subway or taxi?”

“Subway is fine,” answered Darkstar as she released the hug, “I need to learn to be around ponies, and I like the train.” She followed the mare into the station, “Thespy, please don’t tell Raid about my wobbles at the theatre, and here. She’ll only worry and go all mother hen on me.”

“What?” Thespian put a hoof to her chest, “I’m not mother hen enough?” She giggled, “I think we’ve sorted it all out, and there is no need to take it further.”

“Thanks, you’re awesome,” said Darkstar.

Thespian paid for two passes for the remainder of the month. She handed both to Darkstar, “You can give one to Raid. At least they prorate the cost based on the days left in the month.” She led the way to the platform. “Now to see if they are still awake.”

“I’ll bet, knowing Raid, they are snuggled up and asleep,” challenged Darkstar.

“I’ll take that bet,” responded Thespian. “I put the cost of those passes on it.”

Darkstar giggled as they boarded the recently arrived train. “I’m sure they’ll tell us about their night when we get back or over breakfast.” The train wasn’t crowded at this time of night and Darkstar relaxed. “I did have a lot of fun tonight. Thank you for inviting me.”

Thespian held her nose in the air, “I had fun, which is what truly matters to a socialite, such as myself.”

Darkstar bowed, “That is true, madam. Shall your maid serve you breakfast in bed?”

Thespian waved a hoof, “No, my dear servant, that is the butler’s job.” Darkstar laughed, and Thespian continued, “I would just as soon you have unsupervised access to the kitchen, so I can be lazy and let you fix my meals.”

“Yeah, that would be nice,” agreed Darkstar, “And when I do, I’ll make you all the meals you want.”

“Well, maybe not all I want,” said Thespian. “I still need to fit into my costumes.”

Darkstar sang, “Not my problem, and besides, generous curves are sexy. Just you wait till I make you a proper Canterlot meal.”

“Oh, will I have to wear lace and such, and use the proper utensils?” Thespian asked.

Darkstar giggled, “Nah, you don’t want to dress up all fancy for the triple fried egg sandwich with chili and mango chutney, and chunky chips.”

Thespian gasped with a forehoof to her head, “Can it be true? That real food can come out of Canterlot?” She giggled, “There is a Canterlot grocery not far from where we live. Airy told us about Wily’s love for triple fried egg sandwiches with those fixings.”

Darkstar nodded, “Her mum used to make it for her, and she made it for us.”

Thespian had her nose in the air again, “Well, I can make you something that is all fancy and such from some upper west side Manehatten cooking.” She leaned in close and whispered, “Or Caffy can do some crazy tribal cooking. Careful though, rumour is zebras cook ponies for snacks.”

Darkstar put on a disgusted face, “Ugh, I couldn’t ever imagine eating meat, the very thought…even at my lowest I would never do that.”

Thespian nudged Darkstar, “Sorry, that joke was in poor taste.” She winked, “But I’ve heard worse when we first started dating. And we are here.”

“Poor taste,” Darkstar giggled, “I get it.” She followed Thespian off the train and out the station. Thespian opened the front door, but remained quiet. She pointed out a note on the small table in the foyer. It read, ‘Gone to bed. Raid wore me out with her massage.’ Darkstar giggled, “She is good at giving massages. How am I going to get my meds?”

“Raid gave us the combo,” answered Thespian. “Let’s take care of that and then join them in bed.” She raised a hoof in the air, “The snuggling will be doubled!” Once Darkstar had taken her meds, the two walked into the bedroom. She saw Caffeinated was wrapped around Air Raid’s back. “Do you want to sandwich Raid or Caffy?”

Darkstar swallowed, “Caffy, if you don’t mind?

Thespian kissed the unicorn on the cheek. “I offered so I don’t mind, silly.” She climbed up on the bed and pushed her back to Air Raid’s hooves. “Good night.”

Darkstar trotted around the bed and climbed up. She wrapped the zebra in her hooves. “Good night.” ‘Well we survived another day.’ The white mare smiled, ‘We did it together.’ Sleep soon claimed her.

~ ~ ~

Thespian was the first to wake the next morning. A little shortage of sleep would never get in the way of her shopping. She eased her way out of Air Raid’s hooves only to have the pony hug tighter. Air Raid felt the movement and held on as she opened her eyes. “Darkie?” After a few blinks she realised where she was, “Oh, good morning, Thespian.”

Thespian kept her voice low, “Good morning, Raid. So, this isn’t one of Caffy’s harem dreams then?

Air Raid giggled softly, “I’m sure any stallion would love to sleep with three mares.”

“Maybe, but one mare can service three stallions at once,” responded Thespian. “Want to help with breakfast?”

Air Raid shoved a hoof in her mouth to keep from snorting to loudly, and nodded. She moved out of Caffeinated’s hooves and off the bed. If the zebra woke up, he gave no sign of it. Once out of the room, Air Raid asked, “What’s for breakfast? And Darkie wasn’t lying when she said I wasn’t a good cook.”

“Coffee, of course,” said Thespian. “Scrambled eggs with cheese and hay hash.” She looked at the mare, “You can cook, at least a little bit?”

“A little bit would be the best description of my cooking,” smiled Air Raid, “But I can help, a little bit,” she ended with a giggle.

“Okay, you do the scrambled eggs and cheese. I’ll set you up with the right ingredients, and take care of the coffee and hay hash, so I can watch you.” Thespian set out all the items they needed to make breakfast.

“I’ll give it a go,” responded Air Raid. “I’m sure scrambled eggs I can manage.”

“Key is the right amount of milk, and a low temperature.” Thespian set the kettle to boil for the coffee press, and then she started on the hay hash. “You have to stir constantly. So, Caffy will pick up the car decals later today. We need to get an early start too. Coco usually opens at ten, but she will open early for appointments.”

“Oh, right, for my car,” said Air Raid, “It is really cool you’re sponsoring me, and I can’t tell you how stoked I am to be getting my own personalised racing suit.”

“Do your best, and stay alive,” stated Thespian. “Do you know what Darkie’s plans are for today?”

“I’ll drive my best, Thespy.” Air Raid watched her eggs as she stirred, careful not to ruin them. “I don’t know if she has any plans. Maybe we can suggest she go see this Requiem shrink that everypony recommends. I’d rather she not be left here on her own just yet.”

“Sounds like a good plan,” responded Thespian. “I’ll ask Darkie and then ring up Requiem.” The kettle started its shrill alert and Thespian pulled it off the burner and poured it into the press. “The coffee alarm should soon have the other two down here.”

The scent of coffee overpowered the scent of mare and Caffeinated opened his eyes. The coffee alarm never failed. He looked and Darkstar was the only one in the bed. He nuzzled her ear and whispered, “Time for breakfast.”

Darkstar mumbled a bit and nuzzled her pillow, “I’ll be right there, nurse.”

“I’d love to wake up and say, ‘Helllloooooo nurse!’” The zebra snickered, “Maybe I should suggest that bit of role play to Thespy.”

Darkstar opened her eyes and looked at Caffeinated, “Oh…Hi, Caffy. Sorry about that.”

“Was it a good dream?” the zebra asked.

“Kinda,” said Darkstar. “Usually, if Raid is gone, the nurse wakes me up and fixes my breakfast.”

Caffeinated nodded, “Since the other two are gone, I’ll guess they are making breakfast. I’ll soon be off to work, and Thespian is taking Air Raid shopping. We can talk about your plans at the table, after we get some coffee and food inside us.”

Darkstar smiled, “Caffy is good coffee.”

“Yes, I am,” said the zebra as he got out of bed.

Darkstar giggled and rolled out of the bed, “Come on, cutie,” She led the way out only to have her tummy grumble. She quickened her pace as the zebra behind her snickered. The two entered the kitchen, and Darkstar exclaimed, “Raid is cooking, and I didn’t hear the smoke detector, are you sure it’s working?”

Air Raid graced her with a raspberry as she turned off the heat. Caffeinated moved straight to the coffee press and poured out four cups. He added those to a tray along with cream and sugar, and brought the tray over to the table. Thespian smiled as she portioned out the hay hash to four plates, “I check it every month.”

Air Raid then added some egg scramble to each plate. “You don’t have to eat it, Darkie, I can always get the nurse to make your breakfast.”

“Ewww, no thanks,” said Darkstar. “Even your burned cooking is better.”

Air Raid brought the plates over to the table, “If you ever want her to do something, just threaten to get the nurse.”

Darkstar stuck out her tongue as she added cream and sugar to her coffee, “You know I hate that nurse.”

Thespian added cream and sugar to her coffee. “Those two’s sense of humour is so dry it makes yours look wet.” She was pleased with the eye roll her husband gave her. “Whatever will you do, now that there is no nurse around?”

Darkstar shrugged, “I dunno. Hadn’t thought about it. I just assumed Raid would hire one out here.”

Air Raid added a couple sugars to her coffee, “Do you want me to?” Darkstar shook her head, “I’m off shopping with Thespian. What are you thinking of doing?”

“Do you want a nurse?” asked Thespian.

Darkstar shook her head again, “No, I’m getting better.” She turned to Air Raid, “I don’t know.”

“Would you still like some help?” Thespian pressed.

Darkstar shrugged, “I guess. I mean, I don’t think I should be on my own just yet.”

Caffeinated spoke up, “I’m sure you’ve heard a lot of us talk about Requiem. Besides being an excellent actress, she is also a licensed psychologist, and a herd member.”

Darkstar looked down at her food, her mood plummeting a little. “I’ve heard a lot of ponies use her name.”

“I remember Princess Luna said she was good when Darkie had her horn healed,” added Air Raid.

“She has worked with Mapper and Airmail, by court order.” Thespian smiled, “She did lick Luna’s hooves.”

Darkstar looked up and smiled, “I’d like to meet her then, she sounds nice.”

“I’ll ring her up then,” said Thespian as she left the table to use the phone.

“Raid,” said Caffeinated, “I’ll be ordering your decals today. Will magnetic decals stick to your car?”

“Yup, they will, no problem, Caffy. Thanks,” responded Air Raid.

“Ms. Thespian,” Darkstar spoke up, “Could find out when and where we can meet?”

Thespian nodded as she waited for Requiem to pick up. “Good morning Requiem. I’m doing well, going shopping today. Yes, well I do have a favour to ask. We have a guest, Darkstar, and she could use some of your professional time. Okay, let me ask.” Thespian looked at Darkstar, “Do you want to meet her here, at her office, or go shopping with us and meet her at Coco’s?”

“Her office sounds nice,” responded Darkstar, “If that is okay.”

Thespian returned to the phone, “Your office, what is a good time? Eleven a.m., sure, that will be easy. White unicorn, grey mane, three black stars on her butt. Yes, Canterlot. Okay, see you tomorrow at gaming night. Bye.” Thespian sat back down at the table. “Her office is in Brooks, which is the borough she lives in. Do you want to go with one of us, or leave from here?”

“I’d like to go with Caffy, if I can,” responded Darkstar.

The zebra smiled, “Welcome to your independent life, Darkie. If it wasn’t okay, you wouldn’t have been offered the choice.”

Darkstar giggled when she realised she was on the verge of apologising again, “Thanks, I’m getting used to it.”

Caffeinated asked, “You ever worked as a waitress?”

Darkstar shook her head, “No, but I could pick it up. If you don’t mind me having a go.”

“At my shop there is no waitress,” explained Caffeinated. “So, it would be novel, fun, and no pressure.”

Thespian giggled, “Remember when you made Mapper waitress for a day?” Caffeinated facehooved.

Air Raid chimed in, “You could always lap dance for them, if you drop an order.”

“Oh, shut up,” muttered Darkstar, her cheeks red.

“Entertainment.” Caffeinated scratched his chin. “I hadn’t thought of that, but it would be best to save that for open mic. Eat up, we leave at eight.”

Darkstar diverted herself by digging into her food, “This is yummy, even if Raid had a hoof in it. If she can fly, she’s a changeling!”

Air Raid used her patented eye-roll number two, and flapped her wings, not lifting an inch. “Happy?”

“Yeah, that’s her,” smirked Darkstar. “Joking aside, Raid, that really was nice.”

Air Raid took a little bow, “Thank you.”

“Oh, no!” exclaimed Thespian, with her hooves to her cheeks, “I fear my job as sous chef is now in jeopardy!”

Caffeinated shook his head at the mares’ antics, “Do both of you have your subway passes?”

“I have mine,” Darkstar said as she showed it.

Before Air Raid could speak, Thespian hoofed hers over. “Here is yours. I picked them up last night.”

Air Raid took the pass, “Thank you.”

“I got the dishes,” said the zebra as he gathered them up to the sink.

“Raid?” asked Thespian, “Do you have an old racing suit, or pictures you’d like for a basic design?”

Air Raid nodded, “I have a few pictures in my saddlebag, and Caffy has given me pictures of the logos for the coffee shop and times.”

“Good, that will give Coco something to work with,” said Thespian.

“It will be nice to see what she comes up with,” added Air Raid. “It will be nice to have some suits designed just for me, y’know? Rather than a communal thing.”

“That is the purpose,” said Thespian. “When you’re famous, ponies will want to know who designed your suits.”

“Finished,” announced Caffeinated. “Let’s go.” The group of four walked out of the house together.

On the way to the station, Air Raid asked, “How did it go last night, Darkie?”

“I had lots of fun at the theatre,” said Darkstar with a smile. “Everypony was really nice.”

“She may have to give up her day job for the theatre,” added Thespian.

“Did you have fun last night?” asked Darkstar.

Air Raid blushed, “Yeah, I did.”

“She gives a very good massage,” stated Caffeinated. “Her dancing could use some work, though.” Air Raid blushed harder.

The subway platform was crowded when they arrived, just like it had been the night before. “Busy, huh?” said Darkstar as she moved closer to Air Raid for protection.

“Post rush hour, was busier about an hour ago, and will be less busy when you go over to Requiem’s,” said Caffeinated, picking up on the mare’s nervousness thanks to some ear flicks from Thespian. “You can always take a taxi.”

Resolutely, Darkstar shook her head, “No. It’s fine. Not every crowd is gonna get me, right?”

Caffeinated nodded, “And not ever crowd is a mob.” On the subway they chatted about the events of the night before. Darkstar made no mention of her nearly having a meltdown, and Air Raid didn’t say anything about considering having sex with a stallion. “This is our stop, Darkie,” said Caffeinated.

“Okay, you have fun, Raid.” Darkstar gave Air Raid a hug. Thespian gave the zebra a kiss.

“Was she really okay?” asked Air Raid after the doors had closed and they were alone. The innate ‘mother hen’ of Air Raid coming out.

“She did well,” answered Thespian. “Considering she was tossed into a new environment, and surrounded by ponies she didn’t know.”

“Okay,” said Air Raid. “I do worry for her.”

Thespian gave the mare a hug, “It is okay to worry, but be careful about controlling. This is our stop.”

Air Raid followed Thespian off the train, “I’ll try.” As she walked up the steps, “It’s weird not driving everywhere.”

“You’re welcome to drive as much as you want in the city,” giggled Thespian. “Parking is a bit limited and runs about three hundred bits a day. Of course, after you’re rich and famous you can buy a parking spot. They go for about five hundred thousand bits, but at least you have a guaranteed place to park.”

Air Raid smiled, “Well, that’s a thing to aim for. Besides, I think I’ll get something smaller to drive around here. Manehatten is a lot more built up than Canterlot.”

Thespian nodded, “True, we have a lot more ponies, and no worries on security for a Princess.”

“Yeah, good point,” said Air Raid, “I’ve always fancied a little Fiat 500, they’re such cute little cars.”

The pair exited the station, and outside, Thespian reached for her phone. “I’m sure you can borrow the Colt if you like. I’ll need to call Coco to make sure she is ready for us.”

Air Raid laughed, unsure if to be insulted or not at the thought of an electric car. “I should borrow Mapper’s Colt. Poor thing needs driving more than once an ice age.”

“I forgot she even has a car,” said Thespian. “Of course, Mapper can’t teleport to save her hooves.”

Air Raid fluttered her wings, “I can sympathise.”

Thespian giggled, “I can sympathise with both of you.” She held the phone up to her ear, “Hello Talker, it’s Thespian. Good guess on my part, is Coco in? Sure, we can keep busy till then. Bye!” She put her phone away, “We have about thirty minutes to kill. Window shop?”

Air Raid smiled, “Need you ask? Let’s shop for windows!”

“Excellent!” exclaimed Thespian, “Maybe they have some with glass clearer than mine at home.”

“We can only see what the hunt brings up,” said Air Raid as they walked along. After a couple of stores, she asked, “Thespy, is it true what I heard, Luna spanked Octavia with a sock?”

“Change of plans,” Thespian sang out. “Follow me, my good mare.” Air Raid followed Thespian to the north. “There is a nice book store there too. Have you met Octavia when you hung out with Dusk?”

“Only in passing,” answered Air Raid. “We’d say hi, in passing, maybe a bit of small talk and that sort of thing. We weren’t besties.”

“She really likes racing games,” said Thespian, “So, Luna and Octavia should be there tomorrow for gaming night.”

Air Raid thought about that, a delicious idea creeping into her head. “Octavia likes speed, huh? I wonder if she’d like the real thing?”

“I know she would,” answered Thespian. “She likes danger, unless it is to her cello, then that is another story.”

Air Raid sniggered, “Yeah, even Darkie never touched her cello. So, you think maybe I should ask her to ride with me on Sunday?”

Thespian stopped, “Will they allow that? And will the extra weight affect your game?”

“We always use a co-driver in rallies, but then we actually switch driving. In a race like this only one can drive, but having some pony else in the car isn’t an issue, and with my Audi, weight won’t be an issue either.” Air Raid laughed, “Besides, it’s Princess Octavia. Can you see her being refused?”

Thespian started moving again, “No, I really can’t. Ask tomorrow, it would be quite the show if you win.”

Air Raid giggled, “Oh, I’ll win! Royalty by my side too?” She pumped a hoof into the air and pulled a rather heroic pose, “Bonus!”

When they entered the plaza, Thespian waved a hoof at the fountain. “Rather ordinary, if large fountain, would you say?”

Air Raid looked about, “Hum, yeah, does look pretty, well dull I guess.”

Thespian moved to the west side of the fountain and pointed a hoof at a small brass plaque, which was kept very shinny. As Air Raid read the plaque, Thespian used her stage voice to read it out loud. “Upon this spot, Her Royal Highness, Princess Luna, Goddess of the Moon, did discipline her loving wife, Princess Octavia, by a most severe beating upon her hindquarters with a fluffy pink sock!”

Several ponies around the plaza stopped to clap hooves at the reading, while Air Raid doubled over in laughter, “Oh…Oh, that is priceless,” she said between giggles. “I hope…I can get a mare willing to do that to me!”

“A public flogging with a sock?” Thespian asked, gears turning in her head.

Air Raid calmed down thinking about it, “Well, maybe something sturdier than a sock, but come on! The humiliation must’ve been delicious!”

Thespian nodded, getting an idea for what really got Air Raid going. “It was, and it was the lunch time crowd. Not the few ponies you see here now. I think she may have lasted a minute before she said her safe word.” Thespian tapped the fountain next to the plaque. “The Mayor had this placed here, and I don’t think Octavia has seen it yet.”

Air Raid squeezed her hind legs together, the thought of the humiliation turning her on. “Damn, I would have cum on the spot.”

Thespian giggled, her suspicions all but confirmed. “I don’t think Octavia did, but I think Luna may have. I know Mapper did.”

Air Raid giggled, “Seriously, I’d be walking funny ‘till I got home.” She looked at the plaque and tried to imagine the scene.

Thespian smiled at the lime green mare’s faraway look on her face. “You should take a picture, I have.”

“You’re right.” Air Raid pulled out her phone from her bag to take a photo.

“Even better,” continued Thespian. “Tempest has a video of the event. Just don’t ask her about it where Octavia can over hear you. She worked hard to have Facetube pull all the videos off the site.”

Air Raid squirmed, “I totally will. Could we talk about something else?”

Thespian, ever the tease, took note of her new friend’s current state, “Sure, I have lots of stories about spankings and other sexy shenanigans.”

“Thespy, so not cool!” Air Raid could feel the moisture as it trickled down her hind leg.

Thespian laughed, “Or we could go to the bookstore for a Danish. The coffee isn’t that good, so I’ll have tea.”

“The book store, to the book store!” Air Raid blushed, “What kind of stories are we talking about?”

Thespian led the way to the bookstore on the north side of the plaza. “Fourth Thursday is our kink Thursday, like the second one is our gaming Thursday. We also do an open mic on the Friday following our kink night.”

Air Raid’s wings started to spread, “I see…those kinds of stories.”

Thespian leaned in close to whisper in her ear, “My kink is being spanked.” She brushed her flank along Air Raid’s as she moved into the bookstore’s coffee shop.

Air Raid was frozen in place, “Oh, that sounds so hot!” She shook her head and followed Thespian into the shop, but she had to carefully manoeuvre her rigid outspread wings through the door.

Thespian looked at her, as innocently as she could while keeping a straight face. “Was it something I said?” She turned to the barista. “Bear claw and a green tea plain.”

Air Raid grumbled, “Maybe.” She placed her order, “Coffee, black, two sugars, please.”

“Find us a spot,” said Thespian. “I’ll bring the drinks over.” Air Raid was fortunate to find a nearby table. She sat down and tried to force her wings to her side. Thespian set the mare’s coffee in front of her and sat on the opposite side of the table. She took a bite of her bear claw. She waited until the pegasus’s wings were back down. “I like to hold onto the bench with my own strength when I’m whipped, instead of being tied to it.”

Air Raid lost control of her wings again, “D-do you?” A very distinctive odour came from the mare.

Thespian sipped her tea, “Caffy does love to tie me up though. He likes to chain my hooves together and put me in bondage gear when I serve drinks.”

Air Raid squirmed on her seating pad, “Buck, that is hot.” She could well imagine herself in such a set up.

Thespian wiggled her eyebrows, knowing she had a fellow submissive on the hook like a captured fish. “Maybe you’d like to serve drinks with me tomorrow?”

Air Raid focused back on Thespian and with a whimper said, “Yes…Yes, please.”

“If you ask Caffy very nicely, he may let you,” Thespian said around her smile. She sniffed. “Last night wasn’t enough for you? Had it been awhile before that?”

Air Raid stared forlornly into her black coffee, seeing nothing but her reflection. “About three and a half years, ish? Give or take…” she couldn’t remember exactly how long ago Appleglow had been now. Too long.

Thespian blinked, genuinely surprised. “Oh my, Raid, I didn’t know.”

Air Raid blushed hard, “Well, I had Darkie determined to off herself every chance she got, and I couldn’t leave her alone, like, ever. Then Cyclone came around doing her regressed foal thing. Somepony had to watch them both.” She looked up, “Not a lot of time to get laid.”

Thespian laughed and leaned toward Air Raid, “Serenity told me she and Luna did some nappy play at the castle, and then later Mapper did some for Octavia.”

Air Raid giggled, “Cy would have loved that. Nappies, and foal play are her thing, along with exhibitionism…” Air Raid blinked, “Not sex with foals you understand.” Thespian nodded. “Cy did tell me that Tempest invited her to be there tomorrow.”

“It’s going to be a full house then,” said Thespian.

“So, you will need an extra serve, won’t you?” stated Air Raid.

“I will, won’t I? Thespian giggled. “We don’t do much kink on gaming night as all the foals are there. Still, hoof chains and serving is reasonable. I’ll put in a good word for you to my husband.”

“You’re awesome!” exclaimed Air Raid.

“Just a mare that wants to have fun,” Thespian said.

Air Raid finished her coffee, “Fun, for me, has been racing, but now I’m going to start having proper fun again, with you and your herd.”

Thespian drank the last of her tea, “As a friend of the herd you are always welcome.”

Air Raid nodded, “I’ve been so busy making sure Darkie stays alive I haven’t lived myself. I reckon I’m owed some fun.”

Thespian shook her head, “I think you’ll find that life doesn’t owe us anything. We have to go out and collect!”

“You’re right,” responded Air Raid. “I’m going to start collecting by getting me a cute mare.”

“It’s time to go.” Thespian stood up, “I do hope that Coffee Bean finds you a nice one to choose from.”

Air Raid stood up, “I’m sure she will. Caffy speaks highly of her.”

“I’m sure she will,” said Thespian as she left the shop. “She likes mares herself, and she really worships Luna’s ass.”

“Come on, you’ve seen that ass!” Air Raid said, “Who wouldn’t worship that ass?”

“I wouldn’t,” giggled Thespian, “But I can say she tastes rather nice.”

Air Raid staggered a little as she kept her blue tail plastered between her hind legs. Again, she lost control of her wings, “You jammy mare! I’d be happy to be Luna’s hoof stool.”

Thespian snorted, “You’d have to get past Octavia, then again, maybe you could be a hoof stool for both of them.”

Air Raid paused as she thought about the prospect of being that hoof stool. A hoof brushed her lips and she came back to reality as she watched Thespian shake off the drool she mopped up. “Sorry, about that. I was somewhere else.” Her grin turned goofy, “You’re going to keep me wet all day, aren’t you?”

“The word is lubricated,” giggled Thespian. “You’re going to need to buy some panties to keep your leg dry.”

“Panties?” smirked Air Raid, “At this rate I’ll need a nappy.” She smelled the air, “I can’t believe that is me.”

“So, what do you think of the fountain now?” asked Thespian.

Air Raid took a couple of steps forward to look at the fountain. Before she could say anything, she felt a nose under her tail. The pegasus leaped forward and turned around to see Thespian slowly lick her nose. The earth pony looked back at her and said, “It is all you.” She enjoyed the red spreading over the lime green mare’s face. “It is going to be fun fitting you.”

“It’s going to be the most embarrassing thing ever, isn’t it?” said Air Raid.

“I hope so for you,” Thespian said with a smile, “Speaking of embarrassment. Caffy’s logo will go on your chest and the Times on your sides, but they don’t know you’re a pegasus. I hope you don’t have a problem raising your wings for the photo ops?”

“You can see it is hard for me to not raise them,” giggled Air Raid as she tried to get them back to her sides. “To answer your question, no, I have no problem with it. I’ve come to terms with my Scootaloo’s Syndrome long ago.” She walked with Thespian past Rarity’s Recreations, and turned with her down an alley. “Um, Thespy, we kinda missed the shop.”

Thespian looked around to see they were alone and leaned in close, “Super-secret back entrance.” She moved to a blank door and pushed the button next to it. The door opened with a mare on the other side. “Hello, Magnolia. I’ve brought a friend that needs Coco’s personal touch.”

“Greetings, Ms. Thespian, please do come in,” said Magnolia as she stepped back to make room for the two of them. As Air Raid passed, she said, “Have you been having fun with your friend?”

Thespian smiled, “Maybe.”

Air Raid blushed and with a groan she said, “Yes, that smell is me.”

Magnolia giggled, “Would you like to freshen up before you see Coco?”

Air Raid’s blush grew hotter, “That would be lovely, thank you.”

“Follow me please,” said Magnolia. She then turned to Thespian, “Coco is in her office if you’d like some coffee, Thespian.”

“Thank you,” responded Thespian. “I’ll see you in a bit, Raid.” She trotted off and out of the room.

Air Raid followed Magnolia out a different door. The first room she entered was a large dressing room with a long vanity and mirror. Then she entered a rather expansive bathing area. “Wow, this is really something.”

Magnolia smiled, and asked, “Will you need any assistance?”

“Nah, I’m cool.” Air Raid winked at the earth pony, “Unless you wanna keep me company?”

“You’re sweet, but I do have a store to open,” said Magnolia. “Before you leave the dressing room there is a buzzer to the right of the door. Press that and somepony will come to take you to Coco’s office.”

Air Raid blew Magnolia a kiss, “Alrighty, I got it.” After Magnolia left Air Raid looked around, “This place is really posh.” She sniffed at the scented soaps and picked out the orange blossom. ‘This smells nice and I hope will cover my stench.’

She did a quick shower, but with a through scrub of her nether region. A look in the mirror let her know she would need to do at least some preening. Once finished, she sniffed the air. ‘Well, at least you’re advertising your need anymore.’ Air Raid trotted through the dressing room and pushed the buzzer.

After a few moments the door opened. “Hello, I’m Talker said the unicorn. You must be Air Raid. Let me show you to Coco’s office.”

“Hey, Talker,” Air Raid smiled and followed the mare.

“I’ve been told you’re a race car driver,” said Talker.

Air Raid’s smile widened, “Yup! That I am.”

Talker asked, “Will you be racing this Sunday?”

“Yes indeed!” Air Raid’s excitement was growing, “I’m looking forward to it!”

“Cool, my husband loves racing,” said Talker. “Now I can tell him I met a race car driver.”

“It’s my first race in Manehatten,” Raid said with enthusiasm. “I raced in Canterlot before, and hey, I’m entering the big desert run next year!”

Talker blushed, “Sorry, I’m not a big race fan, but I do watch them with my husband. I’ll let him know that too.”

Air Raid rubbed the back of her head, “I’m sorry too. You kinda got me started, so where are we going?”

“Here,” Talker said as she opened the door. Inside sat Thespian and another earth pony.

“Cheers, Talker.” Air Raid smiled and entered the room, “Hey Thespy.”

“Air Raid, this is Coco Pommel,” Thespian said as she pointed out the other mare. “Coco, Air Raid, your client for the day.”

Coco gestured to the front of her desk, “Please have a seat. Do you have some designs you’re looking for?”

Air Raid moved up to the desk and pulled an album out of her saddle bag along with the two logos. “Here are some suits I’ve used in the past and the logos. Both are black and white, so maybe white?”

“Thespian, The Times, I understand, but why didn’t Caffeinated use orange and white?” asked Coco.

Thespian giggled, “Well orange is Manehatten colours, so I think he went with the stereotype.”

“Figures.” Coco turned her attention to Air Raid. “I don’t think white, or black for that matter would really suit you and the logos.”

“No?” Most of Air Raids past suits were white. “Then I’ll put myself in your hooves.”

“Okay, well I do have a couple of ideas to run past you.” Coco put some sketches in front of Air Raid. “You have a very distinctive fur colour, so a light blue suit to match your mane with green trim. Think neon colours though. I’m thinking you don’t want Canterlot colours.”

“No,” Air Raid said as she shook her head, “I left Canterlot way behind me. Neon blue and green does sound rather sweet.”

Thespian raised her front hooves, “You win. I’ll have the black forest cake delivered by Caffy tomorrow.”

“Betting on me already?” Air Raid giggled.

“Part of the fun, dear,” Coco said as she looked over the pictures. “I see most of your suits are close fitting. Do you want that style, or a baggier raver style?”

Air Raid puffed up her chest, “As tight as you can manage. I wanna show off on the podium.”

“Okay then.” Coco winked, “Extra tight between the hind legs so you can really show off at the podium.”

Air Raid smiled, “You got it.”

Coco nodded, “I’m think to the hooves on the legs, but low on the neck.”

“Oh,” Air Raid perked up, “Can you do a Wonderbolt style hood? Because that would be cool. Oh, and with goggles, so I can race with the top down.”

Coco giggled, “Would it be okay if I left a tuft of your pretty mane sticking out? And Brass for the goggles?”

“Yeah, brass would be cool…” Air Raid paused and blushed, “You think it is pretty?”

“I do,” nodded Coco. “And while I understand the desire for the look, it would be a shame to hide it completely. Would you like a tail sleeve?”

“Forget the hood. I want my mane out, definitely, then.” Air Raid paused, “Um, I don’t think I want a tail sleeve.”

“True, Coco,” Thespian chimed in, “She may need to spread her tail to cover up any wet spots.”

Air Raid did an eye roll, “Oh, ha ha. Totally not my fault.”

“I’m sure it wasn’t,” said Thespian. “And I’m sure you’ll look great in your brand ‘spanking’ new outfit.”

Air Raid blushed as she fought to control her wings and closed her hind legs tighter, “Um, thanks Thespy.”

Thespian smiled, “Sorry, dear. I didn’t mean to make you the butt of any jokes. Just keeping a hooves on approach.”

Coco sniggered, “You’re not trying to whip up any trouble now, are you Thespian?”

Air Raid groaned, “Okay, those jokes are awful.”

Thespian shrugged, “We thought we’d just ride along until something cropped up.”

Coco shook her head, “Okay, that was bad, Thespian. Like you’re up a creek searching for a paddle.”

Air Raid snorted, “And here I thought I’d be crawling over the fitting room floor or something else fun.”

“For now, you can stand on that platform,” Coco said as she pointed to the raised circle in her office. “I’ll need your measurements.”

“Alrighty.” Air Raid stood up and walked over to the platform, and hopped up onto it.

Coco moved over with her tape and used a very hooves on approach to measuring, and started with her hindquarters. “She’s a bit tender in the flank. You may need to toughen her up before using the crop.”

Thespian giggled as Air Raid was losing control of her wings. “I’ll whip up a plan for that.”

Coco moved to do the inseam, “Orange blossom, I recognize that scent.”

Air Raid giggled, “It must be the posh soap. I had to freshen up, a bit.”

“A lot!” corrected Thespian.

Air Raid squeaks as Coco measured her inseam with a hoof pressed against her labia. “Yes, lots. But I was teased a lot too.”

“Thespian is the queen of tease,” pronounced Coco.

“Not that you’ve complained any,” stated Thespian.

“You come with one of the more sophisticated zebra,” amended Coco.

Air Raid grinned, “I can’t complain there.” She looked over her shoulder at Thespian, “And yes she is. I was perfectly fine until she showed me the fountain.”

Coco continued her measurements, “Fountain?”

Thespian reminded her, “Remember when Luna purchased those pink socks for Octavia?”

Coco giggled, “Oh, that fountain.”

“It looked like just another dull fountain,” said Air Raid, “Until I read the plaque.” She let loose a soft sigh, “It must have been heaven.”

Coco nodded, “It certainly didn’t hurt sales.”

“I bet,” nodded Air Raid as she pictured herself at the fountain, “Hmmmm.”

Coco moved her hoof up to Air Raid’s tail hole and the end of the tape disappeared in the pegasus’ labia. She smiled as Air Raid squeaked, “I’d best double check that pantie measurement. Want it to be form fitting.”

Air Raid’s wings popped with a flump, “Yeah, tight is good.”

Thespian laughed, “I’m glad I was over here.”

Coco wiggled the tape, “I’m glad I was back here.”

Air Raid fidgeted and squirmed, “St…hmmm…stupid wings.” A blush spread across her face, “That is all they are good for.”

“You want me to tell Tempest you don’t want them preened?” smirked Thespian.

“Fine,” Air Raid said as her wings stiffened, “They’re good for that too.”

Coco wiggled her hoof a bit more, “I think I have this, now to check the wings. Since you were so kind to extend them for me.”

Air Raid watched Coco wipe a hoof on her feathers and her legs almost buckled. She could feel the moisture dripping down her leg. ‘So much for using that posh soap.’

“You should take a holiday day tomorrow, Coco,” commented Thespian.

“What, to go over to your place?” inquired Coco.

Thespian smiled, “Hottest spot in town on a Thursday night.”

Air Raid squeezed her eyes shut and thought about gear shifts to get her erect wings to relax. “Yeah, it should be fun. Plus, I think, I’m gonna get roped in as an assistant server.”

“That’s a good think, and I’ll be there anyways. I finished up that order your crew made,” Coco said. “Will Princess Luna be there, or do I need to ship her gowns?”

“She’ll be there, along with Octavia,” responded Thespian.

“Oh! I’m so going to insist on a final fitting for Lady Octavia!” chortled Coco.

“What did you get her?” asked Air Raid as she squirmed.

Coco was measuring the Pegasus’ chest, “A bright pink lingerie set.”

“But she hates pink,” Another thought drifted through Air Raid’s mind, “Oh, that would be like making me wear the best young flier uniform.” She pressed her hind legs together.

“And done,” announced Coco. “You may fidget freely now.”

Thespian’s giggle made Air Raid blush even more. “Oh, thanks.” The pegasus rubbed her hind legs together, “I’ll just stand here and hope these useless things go down enough so I can get out the door.”

Coco smiled, “Do you need help?”

Air Raid blinks and turns and intense scarlet, “That…Would be nice…thank you.”

Coco moved over to her desk and pushed a button, “Magnolia, to my office please.” Thespian turned from giggles to laughter.

“What’s so funny?” asked Air Raid.

Coco pointedly ignored her, “Thespian, I got a new dress maker game. I want to play it tomorrow.”

“I don’t see a problem with that,” said Thespian. “What system?”

“Ponystation,” answered Coco.

Air Raid scrunched her nose, “That’s it? Just making dresses?”

“You’ll have to pardon her, Coco,” Thespian said with a dramatic wave of the hoof. “She has just enough fashion sense to find a pony that has real fashion sense. Which is why we’re here.”

“I have fashion sense. I just don’t like silly frilly dress things,” explained Air Raid. “And hey, those driving suits are plenty fashion…y?”

Coco started giggling, and then the door opened to show an earth pony. “Yes, Ms. Coco?” said Magnolia.

“Would you like to take care of a wing boner?” asked Coco.

Magnolia eyed Air Raid up and down, “I’d be happy to assist if the client requests.” All three mares turned their attention to Air Raid.

“Please! This is so…embarrassing!” Air Raid gulped as she squeezed her hind legs together, and squeaked, “Help.”

Coco nodded, “I’ll be in my design studio, Magnolia. Take as much time as you need. Thespian?”

“I’m going to look around the show room,” responded Thespian. “I know how focused you get.” She followed Coco out of the room.

“You are Air Raid, correct?” asked Magnolia.

“Yup, that’s me,” the pegasus responded with a nod.

Magnolia walked around Air Raid, “Since Ms. Pommel asked me to assist you, I take it you like dominant mares?”

Air Raid’s blush intensified, “Hehe, yeah, I kinda like being dominated.”

Magnolia got into her face, “Pardon, I may not have heard your answer correctly. Try again.”

Air Raid backed up a step, “Y-yes, I like d-dominate mares.”

Magnolia moved forward and past Air Raid’s face till she could bite an ear, “One more chance to answer correctly.”

Air Raid closed her eyes, and so wanted to facehoof herself, “Yes Mistress. I like dominant mares, Mistress.”

Magnolia smiled, and she could smell the rising need from the pegasus, “You ‘can’ learn, how nice.” She made another circuit around Air Raid and prodded her wings with a hoof. The desperate whimper of the mare she was touching was music to her ears.

Air Raid watched Magnolia pace around her, “Mistress, may I ask a question?” Magnolia nodded. “If I were a dominant, would Ms. Pommel have called somepony else?”

Magnolia laughed, “No, she didn’t hire any submissive clerks. Besides, you have Thespian with you, and she is a fine submissive.” She laughed again, “Of course you have to be careful when you dominate a mare that could end your career.” She moved to face Air Raid, “Never disappoint her.”

“Never, Mistress!” responded Air Raid.

Magnolia moved to a wing tip and nuzzled it. “Your feathers look dry though.” She moved to the side of the pegasus and turned her back to the mare. Magnolia lifter her tail, “Service me with your phalanges. Now.”

“Yes Mistress.” Air Raid maneuvered a bit as working with stiff wings was difficult. She brushed her primaries over the earth pony’s flank. She noted an immediate smile on her new Mistress’ face. ‘Do I tease her or do what she asked? Stupid wings are just getting stiffer.’ Air Raid elected to get to work and move to slide her leading edge under the mare. She wiggled her whole body to put the stiff wing to work.

Magnolia let Air Raid get in a few strokes before she clamped down on the wing with all her earth pony strength. The pegasus was at her mercy and the wince of pain on her face made Magnolia’s smile grow and her marehood moisten. “I want more wing under me.” She released the pressure.

“Yes Mistress.” Not wanting pain like that again, Air Raid contorted her body to slide more wing under the mare and that did let her apply pressure to the breasts and labia. Air Raid’s excitement increased as Magnolia started to soak her wing.

“Faster pet,” stated Magnolia. Air Raid fluffed her feathers and wiggled her body even faster to rub all under Magnolia. She started to moan, and the pegasus doubled down on her efforts. Air Raids efforts soon tipped her over the edge. She clamped down on the wing and rode out the orgasm. With a soft sigh, Magnolia let go and walked forward off the wing. She turned around and nibbled on the wet feathers. “It must be nice to have wings to do this.”

“They…Have some uses, yes.” Air Raid watched the earth pony lap up the wetness on her wing and then, without warning, she moved onto a full preen. “Mmmmm, you, ah, know your way around a wing.” Magnolia took a primary in her mouth and yanked, but not enough to pull it out. “Ow! Forgive me, Mistress!”

“I do taste rather good,” said Magnolia as she continued the preen. She noted the pegasus’ tail flag and could smell her arousal over her own scent on the wing. Once finished with the wing, Magnolia moved around the front and swatted Air Raid’s muzzle with her tail. “Are we eager?”

“Yes Mistress,” Air Raid responded quickly, “Very eager!”

“Hmm,” said Magnolia as she moved behind the other wing, “Aren’t my needs more important than yours?”

Air Raid blushed and squeezed her hind legs together, “Yes Mistress, they are.”

“Nice to know I’ve been given such an intelligent pet,” smirked Magnolia. She nuzzled the wing joint to the barrel and then stepped back and watched to see what Air Raid would do. She watched the pegasus fidget and turn her head ever so slightly. Once they locked eyes, Air Raid snapped her head back to face forward. Magnolia quietly moved backwards, “Nice to know you have your priorities straight.” She quickly dipped her head under Air Raid’s tail and slurped.

“I do-doooo, Mistress,” moaned Air Raid. Magnolia continued to nibble through her cleft and probed with her tongue. When she raised a hoof to play with her teats, Air Raid moaned, “That’s…Oh, that’s nice.” Suddenly all activity behind her stopped, and Air Raid whimpered, “Whaaa, Mistress?”

Magnolia slammed a hoof into Air Raid’s ass, “You’re a forgetful mare!” Air Raid’s scream of pain was music to her ears. She slammed her other hoof into the other cheek, “Are you, pet?”

Air Raid staggered forward a step, but then stood her ground. With tears in her eyes, and ready to cum from the humiliation alone, said, “Yes Mistress. I’m sorry, Mistress.” She felt a hoof softly rub her ass cheek as once again Magnolia dipped under her tail, “Thank you, Mistress.”

If Air Raid’s panting was any sign, Magnolia knew the mare wouldn’t last much longer. She briefly pulled away, “Cum for me pet!” She then drove back under and Air Raid wasted no time climaxing. Magnolia drank it all in as she sucked greedily. When Air Raid’s hind legs buckled, she used her earth pony strength as if the mare weighed nothing and held the pegasus up with her muzzle alone. Once Air Raid seemed stable, she lowered the mare’s hind hooves back to the floor and pulled out from under the tail.

Air Raid wobbled a bit once she had all four hooves on the floor. “Wow, just wow…” Air Raid was interrupted by a deep kiss from Magnolia. Once the earth pony broke the kiss, Air Raid said, “That was awesome, Mistress.”

“My pet likes the taste of herself?” asked Magnolia. Air Raid nodded her head, and Magnolia lifted a glistening hoof into her view. She watched Air Raid lean forward and extend her tongue. Magnolia smiled and intercepted the pegasus with another long kiss as she lowered her hoof. “I like a pet with no fear and lots of desire.” She moved away along the un-preened wing.

“I’m not scared of anything, Mistress,” stated Air Raid proudly.

Magnolia looked back with a raised eyebrow, “Do not test me, pet!” She stopped with her hip against the wing tip. “Service me with this wing.”

“At once, Mistress!” After her orgasm, Air Raid had better control over her wings and quickly she slid the wing between Magnolia’s hind legs. She fluffed out the feathers and began to stroke the mare forward and backward.

Magnolia truly enjoyed the value of a pegasus lover with those oh so soft feathers. Still, she had a role to play, and play it she would. As Air Raid moved forward with her wing, Magnolia clamped down with her hind legs. The sudden stop almost pulled Air Raid off her hooves. “Do me proud, pet.” Magnolia released the wing.

Air Raid smiled. She loved being used like this. As a tool to please somepony else. She moved her wing like she was flying. The feathers never lost contact. The sound of Magnolia’s moans made added to the heat between her own legs. Her wings grew stiffer as she rubbed hard over the earth pony’s labia.

Magnolia moaned and gyrated on Air Raid’s wing ‘till she reached her own climax. She moved forward and turned around. “What a sweet treat! I get to taste myself again.” She moved in and started preening the wing. “I’m such a greedy mare.”

Air Raid giggled, “You do taste nice, Mistress.”

Magnolia gave Air Raid a professional preen. Once finished she laid down on her back and spread her hind legs wide. “Scissor me, my pet.” Air Raid was quick to move into position, “First to cum has clean up.” The mares quickly started to grind against each other. “If, by chance, you have clean up duty, you will be spanked.” Magnolia giggled, “If that is, or is not, an incentive.”

“S-spanked?” Air Raid’s smile grew, “Really, Mistress?” With Magnolia’s nod her hoof strayed to her own teats as she ground herself against her Mistress. Magnolia’s hoof moved to the juncture and was rubbing Air Raid’s clitoris far more than her own. Air Raid started panting, “I love your hoof, Mistress.”

Magnolia was enjoying this as much as Air Raid, “Somepony wants a spanking?”

Air Raid nodded, “Kinda.” Her eyes closed as she neared her climax, “I’m gonna cum, Mistress!”

Magnolia moved her hoof away from Air Raid and concentrated on her own clitoris. “You think so?” she rubbed herself with vigour.

Air Raid whined, “Please, Mistress, please. I wanna cum!”

Magnolia laughed as she rubbed herself, “I never said you couldn’t. You know the penalty.”

Air Raid lowered her hoof from her breasts to her own clitoris, and bumped hooves with Magnolia. She strummed away furiously and tipped herself over the edge. “Ahhh!” she screamed as she climaxed. Magnolia was mere moments behind her. “By Luna’s mane, that was good!”

Magnolia pulled her hoof away and leaned back. She smiled, “Clean up on aisle Magnolia.” She giggled, “But I may not be messy enough yet.”

“Yes Mistress!” Air Raid moved back to separate themselves and swung around to dive muzzle first between Magnolia’s hind legs. She lapped away with her tongue and gently nibbled Magnolia with her lips.

“Mmm, yes,” said Magnolia as she watched, “Do put some effort into it.” Her pet sucked hard then bit down on her exposed clitoris. Magnolia bucked and put a hoof on Air Raid’s head to hold her against her groin. Air Raid bit harder and Magnolia moaned and bucked harder, but her hoof held Air Raid firmly in place. Her pet’s tongue, lips, and teeth worked her over, “Oh yessss, pet! Work me! Work me hard!”

Air Raid did just that. She added a hoof to the area below the licking zone, and her other forehoof to a breast where she flicked at the nipples. Magnolia’s panting grew louder as the pressure on her head increases. She swore her Mistress was going to shove her whole muzzle deep inside the sopping tunnel. Magnolia shouted and sprayed her face. She continued to lap as she looked over the other mare’s belly to see her looking back at her.

“Celestia, that was well done, pet.” Magnolia took the pressure off Air Raid’s head and lightly stroked her mane. “Now it is clean up time, pet.”

Air Raid licked her muzzle, the lime green mare relishing being little more than a toy to give her Mistress her pleasure. “I’m glad you enjoyed it, Mistress.” She gently lapped at the fluids along Magnolia’s glistening inner thighs.

Magnolia laid back and relaxed. “Very much so, my pet. I’ll be sure to give you a good spanking.”

Air Raid pulled back briefly, “Thank you, Mistress.” She resumed her clean up duties. When she finished she licked her own muzzle clean, “Done, Mistress.”

Magnolia touched herself with a hoof and then inspected it, “Well done, pet.” She stood up, “Now follow me to the model’s dressing room, so that Ms. Pommel can have her office back.” She led the way out of the office and noticed Air Raid stared at her ass. She let her tail become a bit livelier as she walked.

Once in the dressing room, she said, “Stand there in the middle.” Magnolia went over to a drawer and noted that Air Raid’s eyes never left her flank in the many mirrors in the room. She pulled out a collar and blindfold before she returned to Air Raid.

Air Raid’s eyes moved from the mirrors to the mare in front of her, “I was enjoying the mirrors, Mistress.”

Magnolia smirked, “I think you were enjoying more than that.” Air Raid’s blush was proof enough. She put the collar around the mare first, and watched the blush intensify. “What is your safe word?”

“Bronze, Mistress,” responded Air Raid promptly. The collar felt very nice around her neck and she knew the blindfold would soon follow. She was completely at her Mistress’s mercy.

Magnolia nodded and put the blindfold on the mare. Now she didn’t have to worry about Air Raid knowing what was going to happen next. The dressing room had all the supplies she needed. Models ran both ends, but most tended to be submissive. A side benefit of working for Ms. Pommel. She added a tail sleeve to Air Raid’s lovely blue tail and then attached the sleeve to the collar. She softly stroked the exposed ass. “So tender. I’ll need to toughen that up.” Air Raid shivered under her touch.

Air Raid shivered in anticipation as her head was held high by her own tail. The blindfold added to the excitement as she had no idea what Magnolia was going to do to her next. Her ears tracked the mare as he slowly walked around her. A loud yelp escaped her when the riding crop struck her cutie mark. Magnolia smiled at the mare’s reaction. She rubbed a hoof over the mark she struck, “Should I make this really burn?”

“Please, Mistress,” pleaded Air Raid. The crop struck again, with the earth pony strength showing. It fell again and again, and Air Raid whimpered as the pain flared across her ass. “Ow!” left her lips before she could stop it, and the strikes stopped.

“How many was that pet?” Magnolia asked.

Air Raid’s jaw fell open, as she had foolishly forgotten to count. She swallowed and said, “I do not know, Mistress.”

“Is my pet unable to count?” Magnolia asked as she ran the crop around and under Air Raid’s ass.

Air Raid fidgeted, “I can count, Mistress.”

“It is good to know you can, pet.” Magnolia walked away, “Maybe the crop was to light an instrument for you to notice.”

‘That crop wasn’t light at all,’ thought Air Raid. She stayed silent though as a good pet shouldn’t argue with her Mistress. Her ears still tracked Magnolia as she walked and when she was behind her. Air Raid’s whole body tensed up for the next hit. Instead a soft hoof stroked her bottom and she relaxed as Magnolia moved to her side. “Gah!” screamed Air Raid when the cane hit across her anus. “One!”

Magnolia read her pet’s body language like a book. The cane struck without warning, and the pegasus’ scream was music to her ears. The cane fell again and again moving a little lower than the strike before it. Air Raid kept count, though she had a hard time pronouncing the numbers. On the eighth stroke Air Raid’s ass was on fire. “B…” She shook her head, ‘Not yet! I can take this.’ Instead she called out, “Eight!” Number nine was on the crease where her ass met her thighs, and number ten was on her thighs. “Bronze!” Air Raid sobbed. “T-ten, Mistress.”

Magnolia set the cane down and surveyed the damage. She lightly ran a hoof along the welts, and then kissed one just above her cleft. She then walked to the front of the pegasus and removed the blindfold. There was a smile on her face as she licked away the tears, “Satisfied, my pet?”

Air Raid sniffled, “Yes, Mistress, very satisfied.”

“You did well, pet.” Magnolia took off the collar and picked up the cane. She returned the items and moved to a futon. “Come here Air Raid and we can snuggle until Ms. Thespian comes to collect you.” She watched the pegasus take a step and stagger. Before she could topple over, Magnolia was quickly at her side. “Let me help you,” she said and slipped her head under the pony to pick her up off the ground. She carefully carried Air Raid to the futon and set her down. She then gently, with great care, lowered the pony to her side.

“Thank you for the help.” Air Raid leaned against Magnolia. “I don’t think I’ve ever been spanked as well as you just did.” She sniffled again and wiped her nose with a hoof. “A snuggle would be nice right now.”

Magnolia stroked one of the folded wings, “It seems you have regained control over these again.”

Air Raid giggled as she fluffed a wing. “It seems I do.” Air Raid giggled as she tried to take her mind off the fire on her backside. Thespy just pushed my buttons, not that I minded.”

Magnolia nodded, “Ms. Thespian can be a tease, then she does play the whole field.”

Air Raid nodded as she snuggled, “I was fine until she described the fountain with Princess Luna and Princess Octavia.” Her body shivered, “Oh, the sweet, sexy humiliation.”

Magnolia laughed, “I didn’t find out about it till Ms. Pommel showed us the video. It was good advertising for the store.”

Air Raid giggled, “I bet. I wish it had been me.” She nuzzled the earth pony and enjoyed the relaxation of a simple snuggle.

“Magnolia, please bring our guest to my office.” Coco’s voice came over the intercom twenty minutes later.

“Snuggle time is over,” announced Magnolia. She stood and lent Air Raid a hoof.

Air Raid tried to stand but her hind legs were not cooperative. “I think I’ve stiffened up.”

“While I’m sure Ms. Thespian would be happy to carry you out of the store, I think you should try to exit on your own power.” She nosed under Air Raid’s side and got her to her hooves. “You held up rather well, for a pegasus.”

Air Raid snorted. She leaned against Magnolia and took a step, “I’m not really a pegasus. These are,” she placed a wing over Magnolia. “Are just for show.”

“You’ll always be the victim of first impressions then, but,” Magnolia gave Air Raid a kiss and leaned in to support her weight, “It’s the lasting impressions that matter.”

“Well then, Mistress, think of me as an earth pony with cosmetic wings.” Air Raid draped a wing over Magnolia. “Did I leave a lasting impression? I think you left one on my flank.”

“You have, my pet.” They walked back to Coco’s office together. “Now it is time for you to go on your own. I do have another job to do.” Magnolia opened the door and closed it once Air Raid was inside.

Thespian smiled and spoke up, “I see Magnolia got your wings back under control.” She motioned a hoof for Air Raid to turn around. The blush on the pegasus’ face was a good indication of just how well Magnolia did, as was the evidence of the ten cane strikes on her hindquarters. “Yes, I do see you’ve risen to the occasion.”

Coco giggled, “Thespy, you’re terrible, but I did make a good choice in hiring that one. Now, Air Raid, please look at these designs for your uniform. Pick out the one that you can see yourself wearing in the winner’s circle.”

“Okies, let’s have a gander.” Air Raid looked over the four designs that Coco had made and put a hoof to one. “This one, with the green flames on the hooves. I’d be proud to wear that in the winner’s circle.”

Coco noted the design, “I’ll need you here Friday, after one p.m., but before six p.m. for final fitting. You can have it that night, or the next morning if there are a lot of adjustments.” She looked at Air Raid, “Will you want two or three uniforms?”

“I’ll be here Friday, that’s no problem. I’d like three please,” responded Air Raid.

Coco nodded, “Very good then, off with the two of you. I have work to do.”

Thespian laughed and rubbed checks with Coco, “Always the business mare. You need a pretend job like the one I have.”

“No thank you,” snorted Coco. “I do love the attention, but in much smaller doses than the theatre crowd.”

Air Raid joined the giggle fest, “You can’t beat the adrenalin from a packed stadium, Ms. Pommel.”

Coco raised an eyebrow, “I race deadlines, and that is enough adrenalin for me, thank you.”

Thespian led the way out of the office and into the showroom, “Care to hobble around before we leave?”

Air Raid looked around, “Sure, there is some sweet stuff in here.” She noted there was plenty of space to look around in the shop since it wasn’t set up like a typical department store. “Please don’t tell Darkie, or anypony, but I do kinda like frilly dresses. I just don’t wear them very often.”

Thespian followed alongside Air Raid, “I love to dress for the occasion. The theatre lets me wear a variety of clothing styles.”

“It would be nice to wear something other than a Nomex racing suit,” Air Raid said as they walked. Her hind legs were starting to respond as the stiffness faded.

“During the day, I love the wind and sun in my fur,” said Thespian, “But at night I love to tease.”

Air Raid snorted, “You love to tease all right.” She stopped and looked at one outfit, “Oh, a maid’s outfit. I bet I’d look good in that if I’m going to help you serve tomorrow.”

“I’ll have to wear mine then.” Thespian nudged Air Raid, “And tease you all the more. That does look like Wildfire’s only a different colour.”

“Wily has one? Then I gotta have one too.” Air Raid looked around and one of the mares in the store was quick to approach them.

“Hello, Talker. My friend is interested in a maid’s outfit. She wants to be my competition tomorrow.”

Talker looked Air Raid over, “I don’t think standard black is really a colour for her. Yours is bright red with burgundy trim, Ms. Thespian?”

Air Raid watched Thespian nod, “I’m not sure if I’d be that much competition.”

Talker laughed, “Not if you’re wearing chains. Burgundy would look good on you, with bright red trim.”

Air Raid’s eyes widened, “Oh, I’d like that very much. I’d be like your mirror twin.”

“Would you like standard, or G-string panties,” inquired Talker.

Thespian leaned close to Air Raid and whispered loudly, “There is one thing looking at a bare assed mare when she lifts her tail, and there is another when a thing piece of cloth covers the valley like a fog.”

Air Raid’s blush threatened to combust. “G-G-G-string please.”

Talker and Thespian shared a look and giggle. Talker said, “This is fully adjustable, just let me check the colour is in stock.”

As Talker walked away, Thespian added, “Burgundy socks too, please.”

Talker glanced back over her shoulder, “Of course, Ms. Thespian.”

Thespian smiled and turned her attention back to Air Raid, “It seems the more fur I cover, the more fur others want to see.”

Air Raid shrugged her shoulders, “Weird, isn’t it? We normally wander around with nothing on at all.”

“Not really,” Thespian shook her head. “Clothing sparks the imagination. What is she hiding? Plus it draws the eye to what you want them to see.” Air Raid nodded. “It does help when you have a cute tush, like yours.”

Air Raid giggled, “Not bad is it? Yours is pretty sweet too.”

Thespian smiled, “I’m quite happy with it.”

Talker returned with the clothing draped over her back, “Would you like to try it on?”

Before Air Raid could respond, Thespian said, “She’d like to wear it home.”

Air Raid’s wings floomphed. “Yes-yes, I would.”

Talker laughed, “I’m glad I was out of range of those weapons. I’d offer you a dressing room, but I’m not sure if you’ll fit.”

Thespian joined her in laughter. “That is why I’m staying behind her. She doesn’t really need a dressing room, do you Raid?” Once again Air Raid’s cheeks caught fire, and she could only nod. “If you don’t mind, Talker, I’d like to assist her with the fitting.”

“I bow to your wisdom, Ms. Thespian,” said Talker.

Thespian looked at the sales clerk, “Was that an age joke?”

Talker giggled, “Maybe…”

Thespian snorted and turned her attention to Air Raid and started to dress her. “I’ll need a burgundy tail sleeve and bright red ribbon bow, please. May as well be adventurous.”

“At once, Ms. Thespian.” Talker trotted off to fetch the needed items.

Air Raid worked to get her wings back under control, “You’re evil, you know that?”

“Only in the best way, my dear,” responded Thespian as she worked. Talker returned with the sleeve and ribbon. “Please be a dear and do me the honour of attaching that.” Talker quickly put the sleeve and bow on as Thespian finished up the rest of the outfit. “You are a pretty picture.”

“She is your mirror image, Ms. Thespian,” commented Talker.

Air Raid looked at herself in a mirror, “I do look awesome! I’ll bet the mares will love this!”

“Won’t only be the mares getting an eyeful,” said Thespian, “But you’re with me, so you don’t have to accept any advances.”

“Let the stallions look too,” said Air Raid, “It would be a crime to hide this away.”

“That’s the attitude, my dear.” Thespian pointed a hoof, “To the check out!”

Talker giggled as the two followed her. Once she rang up the purchase she said, “That will be 5500 bits with the discount.” Air Raid hoofed over her credit card and Talker processed it. “Thank you for patronizing Rarity’s Recreations.”

Air Raid and Thespian walked out of the shop together, “Now to tease a zebra,” said the earth pony. The pegasus alongside her simply giggled.