For the Sake of a Lady

For The Sake of a Lady
By Leucine

Chapter 1

>It is evening and with it you are traveling back from one of Ponyville's better bars with Rainbow Dash, to your home
>It's been a good week so far, your new job with assisting Twilight with the more technical aspects of her research proving stimulating if still challenging at times
>You're on the outskirts of the town and one of its lakes is visible from here
>"Hey, Dash, wanna join me in kicking back by the lake?"
>She throws her eyes up at the prospect but keeps the grin
>"Sure, dude, I'd just love to sit doing nothing while getting in touch with my feelings."
>You swat at her, a move which she avoids with practiced grace
>But looking at that grin it's impossible to be angry with her
>"Hey are we still on for this Saturday?"
>Did she sound nervous? It's not like The Dash to sound nervous like that
>"You know we are. Usual place?"
>"Yeah! Just don't bring a date, dude, I don't think it's Junebug's kind of thing."
>Ah, that again. She's been needling you incessantly about the mare
>Ever since you told her that, after three years here, you'd made your peace with the fact that it was ponies or nothing - not to mention the party Pinkie threw, replete with a song and dance number - she'd taken every opportunity to bring up the flower salesmare. And all because she was the first to approach you at the party and ask if you wanted to go out some time
>An offer you turned down

>"C'mon, Dash, I told you before she's not my type."
>Bad move. Those choice words send the mare into raucous laughter, leaning back in her flight while clutching her sides
>"D-Dude, you've been out for, like, five days and you already know your type?"
>"I know what isn't my type."
>You turn and start off for the lake, eager to leave to get down to making the most of the sunshine that remains
>"Hey, Anon, you know I'm just joshin' ya. Look, I gotta get up early tomorrow for the weather patrol, catch you tomorrow night?"
>"As always."
>At that she's off, flapping up and westwards to her cloud home
>You watch her fly off for a few moments before before you make for the lakeside
>There's a tree, just near the shore, that you sometimes like to sit against and admire the sun going down, on evenings like this
>Being in Equestria for these past few years has taught you to enjoy these sights and to appreciate the quietness they bring
>You arrive at the tree and sink down onto your behind, pressing your back lazily against it
>It's a good time to reflect

>Life, for you, in Equestria hasn't been as easy as one might think - considering it -is- a magical land of talking ponies
>In fact, one could easily say it's been trying, what with all the unwanted sexual advances and outright rape attempts
>Finding a friend in Rainbow Dash had certainly helped with the latter though not really the former
>And your recent announcement - despite your strenuous requests for it not to be -made- an announcement - had certainly not helped matters
>But all the same, you had found a new sense of peace at coming to terms with yourself. Perhaps this would signal a turn in your luck
>Luck... that hadn't been too good starting out. Work for you was mostly manual labour, the kinds of things ponies would need unicorns for and they were in short supply in that sector
>Thankfully mathematics is universal and you eventually found a means to put your more technical skills to use for Twilight Sparkle. Initially she had compensated you herself but you began to take on so much work that Princess Celestia started paying you your own stipend
>And now you'd settled into that, with regular trips out with your bro. Life wasn't that bad really but then it could always be better
>Muffled hoofsteps sound off to your side and you're left wondering at that
>Surely it wouldn't be Rainbow - she might put up with it from time to time but she'd made her disinterest clear this evening - and you know you've never broadcast the fact that you like to spend time alone out here
>"I might have known a gentlecolt like you would be able to take such pleasure in life's simpler things."
>Seems your ruminations on this hopeful new peace were for naught

>You know that affected Manehattenite accent all too well. Oh yes, you'd had many opportunities to become intimately familiar with its range of tones
>It belonged, of course, to one of your 'suitors' though thankfully she was not of the variety that would tie you to bedposts before attempting to act the pogo-stick on you
>No, Rarity was a hopeless romantic at heart and had time and again roped you into little romantic excursions designed to draw out your apparently repressed feelings for her
>It had been more irritating than anything else but the fact it had been going on for so long had just worn you down
>Which is why, right now, you just can't deal with it. This had been one of your better days and this would have been a nice way to round it off
>"Rarity, look, I'm really not in the mood for this. If you don't mind I'd just like to be by myself."
>The hoofsteps stop suddenly, a ways off from you
>There's the sound of one being lifted and then put down, then a second and another and so on
>She was not the only one to have such a nervous affectation and though you don't care to think upon what has her in such a state
>"Yes, I... I know. You see, that's why I'm here, Anon. I wanted... I wanted to apologise to you. For everything but mostly just for how selfish I've been."

>Hello, this is new
>Rarity would always act ignorant of or simply outright ignore your more direct attempts to convey your disinterest
>And yes, while those occasions were not the worst things to be inflicted upon you they nonetheless ate into your time and generally pissed you off
>With a world weary sigh you motion towards yourself
>"Alright, let's have it."

>With all her gentile grace she trots up to you and sits herself down next your side
>You look up to see she isn't looking at you but out towards the lake. Thinking better of staring at her you turn to face it, yourself
>"I've... come to understand you shan't ever return my... well, my feelings towards you."
>You hear a gentle little laugh, with just the hint of strain behind it
>"I suppose I had known all along; really, I kept the tiny embers of hope alive going within myself, always ready to assure myself that this time, Rarity, your winning smile and charm will get through!"

>You turn to her and see that, while she's smiling it's a tiny thing and wavering
>Her gaze is still turned towards the lake but it appears distant. Perhaps there's something out there that's caught her interest
>The sun's reflection on it really is beautiful. You turn once more and see the oranges and yellows cast onto her pristine coat. It's quite a nice sight
>"And... oh well, you know, it's alright. Really, it is! I understand after all I've done you would never wish for us to be together. It's just-"
>Her voice hitches suddenly on those words and you turn to her once more
>Now that tiny smile is gone, though her bottom lip still trembles and there you can see the sunlight glistening in moisture at the corners of her eyes
>"I just truly wanted to believe that somep0ny like you could see in me what I have always seen in you. That... that some day you might feel I was deserving of... of your... affections..."
>Now it's her turn to face you and when she does you can see that this isn't one of her acts
>Her features look drawn and haggard and her eyes are red and puffy. You'd never known her to allow herself to fall into such a state, despite whatever may happen

>She would have her melodramatic fits, oh yes but this was not one of them. Even you could tell that
>You know it's wrong, you'd drilled it into yourself but you still feel your heart go out to the mare
>And in doing so, you reach out yourself and draw her into a gentle embrace
>It takes but a moment before you feel her own forelegs wrap tightly around you

>"Rarity, do you really mean all that?"
>"Yes! Yes, every word of it!"
>Her voice is still wavering but she's put a little strength into it, enough to say those words before she needs to sniffle
>She did indeed sound sincere in her remorse and... could you?
>After all, she had never been violent with you, had never done more than really irritate you. She had grace and style, beauty (as much as you were willing to admit of a pony) and a wit all her own
>Could perhaps this be what you had begun searching for?
>Would it truly be so awful if you just gave her the chance? At the very least if things didn't work out she'd see for herself...

>"Okay then. I'm going to make you a promise, alright?"
>You extricate yourself from her grip and Rarity, too, reluctantly lets go. She wipes a foreleg over her eyes as she sets herself back down
>"W-What kind of promise?"
>You're still not entirely sure of this. You know how much trouble it could still bring down upon you and how, unless the planets align and Celestia and Luna themselves command you, you may still not be able to give her what she wants but...
>"I'm going to promise you that if you truly mean what you've said and are willing to halt your advances, I'm willing to give you a chance."

>"A... A chance?"
>Ah, that quaver is gone and already you can see a hint of a smile begin to blossom on her lips
>Though you can't explain why, it feeds your growing desire to say these words
>"Yes. A chance. A chance to... get through to me. I won't deny that I'm still getting used to the idea of... being in a relationship with a pony but throughout all we've been through you've always found the time to genuinely be nice to me."
>And there goes that smile, growing inch by inch. You'd never thought it might feel so good to make Rarity smile like that
>"You know, I think that deep down, you're not like the others, that a part of you wants to be with me for who I am, not what. And so I want to give you the chance to prove to me that side of yourself exists."

>Rarity looks down suddenly, hearing that but not so fast that you don't see the drops of moisture at her eyes once more
>You allow her to sit there like that, for a moment more before you take her in your arms again
>"Thank you!"
>Her voice is quavering again but when she pulls back to look at you, there's a smile on her face. Not like the others - this one you can feel the warmth of
>"I know I don't deserve this... and I promise you won't regret what you've said! I'm just... glad that there are still things I can learn about generosity.


Chapter 2

>Content, that's what you feel. It's something you haven't felt that often while living here but it's always good
>Yes, it really had been surprising how good it felt to do that for Rarity and so you could only recline on your couch, now at home, and think back on it
>She had departed soon after, though not for want of staying on, though she assured you it was only so she could work on some new outfits she could be seen wearing with you
>That contentment gives way to a sort of giddiness at that thought. You were finally going to be seen to be involved with another pony
>You have no doubt that Rarity might prove trying at times but then we all have our faults, yes? For all those, there was a charm about her that was undeniable
>Ah but tomorrow was Friday and you'd promised to meet Dash that night. Should you bring it up then? At all? How would she react?
>Yes, that giddiness is quickly waning, now turning to anxiety
>Dash had... excused you from Rarity's presence more than once, would she be willing to accept this sudden change in events?
>And then what about those jokes about Junebug?
>You don't know if Dash knows her well or not but isn't it possible she may be suggesting something? Could she be, not so subtley, trying to set you up?
>Whatever it is, they're both grown mares and can deal with these issues themselves. You have your own life to look out for

>But that doesn't do much to settle your mind
>You flip through a magazine and smile at some of the familiar outfits designed by Rarity. She'd been so proud to seem them featured in La Femme
>Rarity... Again your mind travels that route, from Rarity to Dash to Junebug back to Dash...
>There's only one way you're going to be able to take your mind off this
>You get up and walk to the kitchen, hoping that you've still got something strong in the cupboards
>No, you rifle through them before recalling you'd polished off the last of the brandy when Pinkie had thrown that impromptu house party
>Okay, it would be best not to bring it up on Saturday, and possibly ruin the whole day then. Tomorrow would be okay, she could sleep on it
>With a heavy sigh you turn and proceed up to bed. Any sleep you might have been able to get with that contentment was gone now; you knew you'd be awake for some time worrying about this
>Dash is easily the closest pony to you, had been a stalwart friend since almost the day she met you. The last thing you wanted was to lose that
>With such thoughts running through your mind you settle into your bed and try - however futile it may be - to get some sleep

>As it happened sleep wasn't that hard to come by. Your thoughts had quietened quick enough and you were on to peaceful rest
>Morning was the standard fare of washing, dressing eating though thankfully without any pesky earth or pegasus ponies trying to knock your door down and have you knock them up
>Then it was on to assist Twilight again. Though, for obvious reasons, you were restricted to her more scientific and not magical studies. At least it gave you the chance to share intellectual pursuits with someone who had a passion for them
>You were a little surprised when she stopped by just before your break, tapping you on your shoulder and turning around to see a smug grin on her face
>"A little dragon told me you're dating somep0ny close to his heart."
>She gives one of her cute little giggles, the kind that reminds you she's more than just a brain on legs
>"Well he didn't so much tell me as he ranted most of last night about it. Honestly, it was bad enough when Rarity was chasing after you, now he's lost it!"
>She continues laughing for a moment before calming down and looking at you more seriously
>"Is it true? I really would have thought given how much trouble she was she'd be the last pony you'd want to get involved with."
>You turn back to the notes you'd been working on, mulling her words for a moment
>"I suppose you could say that. She came to me yesterday to apologise for... all that. Was pretty upset about it, too so I thought, you know, why not at least just give her the chance."
>Twilight had been nodding through your words, a smile growing throughout

>"I guess I don't need to warn you to be careful, then. I know she's been..."
>"Distracted?"
>"That's one way of putting it. So, distracted, since you arrived but she really is a good pony at heart. And if she really does love you and you... -if- you develop feelings for her I hope you'll be happy together."
>It warms your heart to hear her say that. You might have expected a severe warning or even a 'don't say I didn't warn you' but this is refreshing, to say the least
>"Thanks, Twi. You know, as funny as it sounds I do hope it'll work out for us. She's... nice."
>No, not 'nice' as in 'okay' or 'passable', you mean genuinely, down to earth, honest to goodness nice
>Thankfully, Twilight appears to pick up on your meaning
>"So when's the first date?"
>First date?
>Ah yes, you hadn't even given any thought to when or where you were even going to take her out. Then again, your route home does take you past her boutique, it'd be just as easy as calling in on your way...
>"I was thinking maybe this Saturday, as long as she doesn't have anything planned already."
>"Just be sure to let me know if you survive it!"
>She trots off sniggering to yourself but isn't a little good cheer in order? It would be nice if, in time, you could look back and crack jokes on that hectic period
>With such warm thoughts in mind you go back to your work

>You finish at the usual time, having made good progress on the problem of creating more efficient gear processes for various engines
>Twilight stays on, continuing her research as you've come to expect but she doesn't mind you working more regular hours
>Exiting the library you plan out the route in your mind already having a certain boutique marked down for special consideration

>Walking up to the Carousel Boutique is always strange. While there are colourful buildings aplenty in Ponyville, few are quite so... imaginative as this little shop. Not that you don't like it, of course
>You don't knock, you don't need to, Rarity would still be open at this time. So you just stride on through, a soft bell tinkling overhead as the door opens
>"Welcome to the Carousel Boutique! Where everything is chic, unique and- darling! So good to see you!"
>Her face positively lights up upon setting eyes on you. The measuring tape she'd been carrying over her neck is levitated off to a table and she lowers her glasses slightly, peering over them at you
>"Oh do please tell me you're not here on business. I've received a horridly large order from Trottingham and have been swamped all day!"
>Where before that little whine might have been like a knife through your ears you suppress a laugh at it. Had you really been so taken up with avoiding her advances that you never noticed how all the world was her stage?
>"You'll be glad to hear it's not. Actually it's the opposite. I wanted to ask... how do I put this delicately..."
>She advances upon you, now taking the glasses off and setting them down beside the tape. Stopping next you she sits
>"Please, darling, I may look the simpering maiden but I assure you I'm made of sterner stuff."
>And there's the feistiness... or is that more of her acting?
>"Alright. Well. Okay. Would you... no, are you... doing anything this Saturday?"
>She casts her gaze skyward for a moment, humming tunelessly
>"This Saturday? I suppose I shall try to get through as many of these orders as I can. Why do you-"
>And then, moving her eyes back down, she sees your smile. Oh yes, she has to realise what it is now

>"You... You don't mean-"
>Your smile widens as you nod. Why does this feel so good?
>"Oh darling, I should simply love to!"
>She jumps up and runs off into the backroom, with you following slower behind, curious to see what she's up to
>"I'll have to find just the perfect outfit to wear! No, green is definitely -not- my colour. Ugh, red and white? Was -was- I thinking... Hmm, maybe if I re-cut the hem of this a little higher... oh, forget it, I'll just have to make something new!
>She wheels about suddenly, facing you with an all too large grin
>"Don't worry, Anon, I'll be sure to sport something suitably fabulous when you take me out on the town! Oh! Maybe a little blue to accent my eyes... gold trim to go with my mane..."
>"I'll leave you to get started, then."
>"Hmm? Oh yes, yes."
>Yes, she's into the 'zone' as she likes to call it. No doubt she picked that little nugget up from Dash. Ah, Dash, you still have to meet her for drinks
>You make your departure, closing the door gently behind you and-
>Was that a peal of excited laughter? Nah, you'll just have to let her have her fun

>"Hey, dude, where've you been? I almost got started without you!"
>Judging by the half empty glass of beer next her hoof it looks like she already did
>"Sorry, had to... take care of some business."
>"Oooh, what's this? Business? Of the, uh, romantic kind?"
>It'd be wonderful if your cheeks could cool down. Honestly, you're not some schoolkid to be getting worked up over a crush
>"Hahaha! You look like one of Fluttershy's beets! Aw, dude, Anon, you've got to tell me who it is!"

>Crap. Looks like you're just going to have to deal with this now and hope it doesn't go out of control. And by it you really mean Dash
>"Alright, I'll tell you but you've really gotta stay calm about this."
>Dash hops off the barstool and trots up to you
>"Oh now this I've gotta hear! What, is it Pinkie Pie?"
>More laughter. She really isn't making this easy
>"No, it's not."
>"Oh! Oh! Is-Is it Twilight?!"
>She's on the floor now, clutching her sides. Fine, if that's the way she wants to play then you won't pull any punches either
>"It's Rarity."
>She stops instantly looking at you. You think she might be about to resume her laughter when she sees how serious you are
>"Dude... c'mon, don't joke about that."
>"It's not a joke, Dash."
>A couple of emotions flash on her face - anger, disgust, confusion, some amusement but mostly anger. Oh boy does she look pissed
>"So... so that's it? After all you've put up with you're just going to turn around and give her what she wants?"
>Standing as tall as she can on her legs, wings flared out - it's the classic pegasi aggressive stance
>"All we went through, all of that was for nothing?!"
>"Dash! She apologised, she's changed."
>In response, your friend just stomps her forehooves, snorting. She glares at you for a moment longer before deflating
>"Fine. It's not like there's any other pony in Equestria that might actually care about you."
>Patrons from around the bar have who had been gawking are now going back to their drinks and hushed talk. Still, you had hoped this might have gone off without Dash getting quite so upset

>"Look, can we just enjoy a few drinks? I want to get done early, gotta prepare for tomorrow."
>Dash ruffles out her feathers and settles her wings by her sides. She continues to stare at you for a moment more before snorting and walking back to her barstool
>"Yeah, well... don't think I'll go easy on you. I remember that tackle you gave in the last match."
>Seems she's as eager to forget about that little outburst as you are. But this is one slight you can't allow pass against your good name
>"That tackle was legal and you know it! I have to find some way to make up for the lack of wings."
>"Pfft, whatever dude."
>You order a beer and sit down next to her
>The next hour passes in increasingly comradely cheer, the previous unpleasentness thankfully put aside. You still wonder if you're going to really have to deal with the reality of this later but make a best effort to enjoy tonight
>"Okay, so we're starting off with lunch at Top Cream, scope out the ponies at the fountain later, get a few games of hoofball in and finish off with drinks, right?"
>"Right."
>Wrong. You have a date with Rarity, so there won't -be- time for those drinks. But you're loathe to bring that back up
>"Oh, actually... I'm gonna have to pass on the drinks."
>"Oh what, you're goin' soft on me?"
>She sniggers into her glass before taking a drink from it
>"No, it's just... I forgot I've got plans."
>Dash puts the glass down just a little too had for your tastes
>"Plans? What kind of 'plans'?"
>"I'm just going to... help Twilight on some extra research that's taking up her time."

>Goddamn are you a terrible liar. Dash might know you enjoy working for Twilight but even you value your weekends too much to actually take on more than you need
>"Look man, either come clean with me or just don't bother at all. I don't want to deal with this."
>Alright. This is going to have to come out eventually. Just... lay your cards out
>"Fine then. I've got a date with Rarity tomorrow night."
>Dash just looks at you, eyes utterly unwavering before she finally turns back to her glass, takes a long, long draught and slams it down so hard you're surprised there aren't cracks running through it
>"Okay. I'll meet you at your house tomorrow morning, we've got to have a talk."
>"Look, Dash, it it's going to be about-"
>"It's not about Rarity, okay? It's about us."
>Okay, this is a little odd. Is she really going to end this friendship just because you happen to want to give Rarity a chance?
>She doesn't give you time to ask before she storms off out the door, leaving you confused and far too sober to deal with this

>Unfourtunatly your sleep that night was not as restful as the one before. In fact you'd been waking up periodically, only for your mind to immediately turn to thoughts of Dash. Which wouldn't be so bad only this is something you'd long, long ago put to bed. You can't let it creep back in, not now, not with the way things are
>So you're sitting over a bowel of oatmeal wondering why in the hell you'd make something so bland when you realise, in a moment of stunning clarity, you're far too tired to do anything more than make it and just stare at it
>Which you would continue to do if there wasn't a knock at the door. A knock you'd spent the night waiting for

>You open it to the sight you'd been dreading. The spunky blue pegasus looking up at you with eyes just as tired as your own. Well, no sense in trying to delay -this-, you just invite her on in
>You sit her down on the couch and sit in a chair opposite. For some time you just look at each other, unsure of who should start or even what to say
>"Okay, we need to get some things out in the open. Before you do this, I gotta tell you-"
>"I know."
>Both of you are shocked at that. You at having actually come out and said it, Dash that maybe you really do know what the hell is going on. But, in the immortal words of Magnus Magnusson, 'Ive started so I'll finish'
>"Dash, I know, okay? I know all about your blushing, your wings; all about those little glances you've stolen when you thought I didn't notice. Oh yeah, I did. I knew all along."
>Her mouth works soundlessly, opening and shutting before she starts to stutter. Her voice grows hoarse and you see moisture pool at her eyes
>"You... you idiot! Why did you do that to me! Why didn't you say something! Anything! Why did you just... just let me suffer!"
>"It's not that simple, I wasn't ready. I couldn't just admit to myself-"
>"Oh yeah, sure but now that you can you're not even going to give me a second thought?"
>"Do you think this is easy for -me-? I've had this shit all stored away and then boom! You've gotta bring it up."
>Dash stands suddenly and throws her forehooves onto the coffe table
>"So it's my fault?!"
>"No!"
>"Then what?!"
>"I don't know!"

>And that's when Dash just loses it. You'd seen her cry before but it's never an easy thing to have to watch. She's always been the strong one, always there to back you up. It's almost surreal to see someone you've come to think of like that having such weakness
>"So... so that... that's it? I-I-I j-just have to... get over it?"
>That sensation of knowing you shouldn't do this but wanting to do it anyway comes over you again. You'd given your word to Rarity, you can't go back on it. You can, at least, offer Rainbow some comfort
>Which you do, as you round the table and take her in your arms. You don't offer any words, you just hold her close and stroke her mane as her sobs slowly start to die and she dries her eyes on your shirt
>"I can't tell you what to do, Dash."
>She looks up to you, to the floor, to the ceiling, to everything in the room except you. She looks back
>"So... does that mean? Would you... ? If I... ?"
>You don't say anything, just look into her eyes
>"If I... wanted you to... to say yes to me. Would you?"
>"I told you, Rarity-"
>"Forget about Rarity. She's crazy. I don't care what she told you, she can't control herself. Please, Anon, you've got to believe me. Y-You can trust me, you always have."
>She's got you there. The one pony who's always had your back, who was your first love before you were even willing to accept anything like that, is right there in your arms telling you she's felt the same way. You really do want to give Rarity that chance but...
>Would it be so wrong to just... keep your options open?

>In a heartbeat you know your answer. You gave your word and while you're no Applejack but you also know a man is only as good as his word. Rarity is not the type of girl who would appreciate you sneaking about behind her back.
>Besides, you have a great friendship with Dash. While one holding feelings for another can lead to problems, acting on them always does. At least if with this now out in the open you can start to build a real friendship with her
>"Dash-"
>She pulls back from you, wincing. Yes, everyone knows what that tone means
>"You mean a lot to me, I don't think that needs to be said. But Rarity... she needs someone in her life to help straighten her out."
>"So... you're just doing it out of pity?"
>Ouch. Why is it always the ones closest to us that know how to twist the knife in deepest
>"No. Rarity's a looker, I think I can say that now. And she's smart, she's strong in her own way and yeah, I admit I like having access to all the lace and leather you can shake a stick at."
>Dash laughs just a little at that but it doesn't do much to bolster your spirits. If this is to be salvaged it's going to take time
>"Dash, I'll always love you, okay? You'll always be special to me."
>"Oh Celestia, dude, just can the mushy stuff!"
>And there she is, your Dash, right back the way you need her. Or at least, getting there
>"Sure. Listen, I don't think either of us is up to a day out so why don't I walk you back to your home and we can both get some rest."
>"Okay, man. And... sorry..."
>"None of that. Let's just put this behind us, okay?"
>"Okay."
Chapter 3

>Walking Dash to her home had been... difficult. Setting aside the difficulty in actually reaching it, she had been questioning you the entire way there. What was it really about Rarity? Did you just secretly have a thing for rapists? Would you go for Applejack? Fluttershy? Roseluck? What if she was to rape you, would you turn down Rarity and go for her?
>That last one had been more than a little disturbing but Dash assured you it was just a bad joke, she understood why you liked Rarity. Which was good, because you needed that boost to your confidence if you were going to go through with this
>She still looked down, flying up to her home but that was to be expected, wasn't it? Right, in a few days she'd bounce right back
>Speaking of bouncing, you'd best bounce right on back to your home and get ready for tonight
>Got to get your best clothes ironed out, pick out a suitable cologne, clean every square inch of your body (with the strongest disinfectant you could find, if necessary) and come to terms with the fact that you were going out. With a pony. A pretty attractive pony, as ponies go

>This is it. This is the night. You're walking through the streets of Ponyville turning heads. Well, more than you usually do. But tonight you have eyes for only one pony. Nope, not Dash, that's all been laid to rest
>Three knocks at the door of Carousel Boutique and a disturbing series of crashes later you're staring at... Rarity?
>Rarity wearing a black halter top, earrings to match her cutie mark, while her mane... is styled up into quite the attractive do
>She blushes slightly, turning her head away from your gaze
>"How do I look?"
>There really is only one word for this
>"Fabulous."
>She looks back, smiling wider than you'd ever seen
>"Well! Shall we then?"
>You shall

>"This is the place?"
>Rarity turns her nose up slightly, glancing at you with an extremely forced grin
>"It's no Sommeil de Soleil but we're not in Canterlot... yet."
>She turns suddenly, eyes wide and mouth agape
>"Sommeil de Soleil? Yet?"
>You place a hand on her shoulder, which seems to please her greatly, despite the slight shiver it causes
>"Rarity, I made you a promise. If I see that your intentions are genuine then I would hope we will find ourselves there some day."
>she looks to you then quickly back at the restaurant, her grin no longer looking quite so forced
>"Well, it's not... that bad really. If they allowed me to redecorate I'm sure I could have it looking nothing short of smashing."
>You chuckle at her unwillingness to let go and lead her into the restaurant proper

>The meal is as good as you might expect for a high class restaurant in a small town. Rarity, at least, seems more taken up with the company she's sharing it with. Every few minutes she steals a little glance at you then looks away grinning when you meet it.
>Conversation starts off lightly, mostly about how the week has gone - you carefully sidestep the Rainbow Dash issue - and then settles onto your respective work. If Rarity has grown bored of listening to your spiel about engineering she's doing a fine job of pretending not to be
>Eventually, though, it moves on to more personal topics among them where you grew up. You give her the brief rundown, from your days with friends, difficulty at school, to your flourishing in university and eventually finding a career
>Rarity seems somewhat more... reluctant to talk about her own history

>"I lived in Manehatten for some time before moving to Ponyville with my parents. Honestly, there's really not much to tell."
>She immediately takes a sip from her coffee, closing her eyes in doing so. The sip turns into a long draught, or so it looks that way to you
>"I've heard snippets from the girls about your life in Ponyville but none of them know anything about what it was like for you in Manehatten."
>Rarity's eyes snap open at those words and she gently places the cup back on its saucer. The mood has changed, palpably and you desperately wish for some way to take back what you've said
>"It was... something I don't like to talk about. Please understand, it's not that I don't trust you but..."
>"You'd rather we became a little more familiar?"
>She nods wordlessly, a hoof outstretched and toying with the coffee cup. Her head is down, her eyes moving about but nowhere that indicates she's looking at you
>It's a shame, really. Rarity had obviously been anticipating this night - you could only imagine what kind of long held dream you were fulfilling by going through with it - and it seemed unfair to sour it like this
>So you reach out and gently place your hand on her hoof
>She starts at the touch, looking at it then quickly up to you. And she sees you smiling at her, not judging or recriminating. A little smile of her own forms in response. It's nice
>"You know, I can't help but feel I've monopolised your time. I'm sure you'd love to tell me all about that order you've had in."

>Perhaps that wasn't the best idea you've had, as Rarity begins recounting - in almost painful detail - every nuance of the various outfits requested by her clients. You manage to pick out a few bits, here and there, that sound like they have human analogues as well as more direct ones
>But it's alright, really. Because you see in her face just how happy this makes her, how passionate she can really become. It had been easy to think of fashion as something reserved for the vacuous and those perpetually in love with themselves but Rarity showed you another side to it. When she would point out how this material wouldn't go with that or how a particular cut had to be used lest the entire garment be ruined you could see there was a depth to the craft that could otherwise be easily overlooked
>And it's probably because of that vacant but happy smile you offer that she suddenly halts, asking what it is

>"Have you ever taken up an old creation and found a new respect for it? Or, seen in new light you realise it has a beauty you never saw before?"
>She blushes lightly, looking away to some terribly fascinating piece of architecture
>"Sometimes I'll try for hours to get two completely different fabrics to come together properly but it just... eludes me and I get so frustrated."
>"But when you get it right?"
>She turns back to you, the blush gone but the smile remained
>"Why, darling, it is the most magnificent thing there is. It makes all that effort worthwhile."
>You simply look at each other for a few moments more before your waiter returns, enquiring if you'd care for dessert
>"Oh he's already right here in front of me!"
>Rarity titters cutely at that but suddenly stops, looking intently at you
>"I'm terribly sorry! Was-was that too much?"
>"Relax, Rarity, this isn't an exam. I'm not going to give up on you if you make a few bawdy jokes."
>As you expect, the asnwer pleases her. That said a part of you is glad you were able to force down your own blush. The implications of that joke...

>The rest of your time there went as pleasantly as it began. Rarity happily competed with you for pride of place in the discussion of your respective professions but you felt it only right to let her talk over you. Might as well indulge her
>On the walk back to her boutique, however, she surprised you by pointing out how scruffy this set of clothing had become and she simply must design a proper outfit for you
>Of course, she was still somewhat unfamiliar with human fashions and proportions so...
>Yes, you'd be delighted to call to offer suggestions, would tomorrow during your break be suitable?
>She'd pratically died. A chance to see you again, so soon! But wasn't it worth it to, yet again, put a smile on her face? She had, after all been so very well behaved this evening

>And that's when you arrived at her doorstep
>"Ah, well, this is me."
>"Indeed it is."
>She looks about at everything but you for a moment, desperately working her muscles to stop smiling quite so much. You think it rather cute
>"Thank you ever so much for this evenin, Anon. It was... well, everything I could have wanted it to be!"
>"Keep going like this and you can look forward to many more."
>Rarity just giggles, looking down. She looks back up to you much more slowly
>"May I... may I perhaps trouble you..."
>Ah and here it is. Such a shame, you'd really started to think she had -actually- changed her tune
>"... for, ah... a goodnight kiss?"
>What? That's it? Not going to 'invite you in for coffee' or something more suitably less subtle? She really is keeping a tight rein on things. So... yes, why not!
>Ah but you've taken too long in deciding and she's now started to turn away, no doubt assured she'd pressed too hard

>That's probably why you lean down, put a hand to her cheek and your lips to hers
>You're not going to pretend this is any less innocent than it is but it has a quality of its own. Her lips are as soft as you might have ever expected and she doesn't struggle or push against you for more. She just... enjoys it for what it is

>You're actually a little loathe to pull away. Her cheek feels so right in your hand and that warm tingling in your lower abdomen is definitely something you don't want to stop feeling. But all good things and all that
>Rarity flutters her eyelids as you right yourself
>"W-Well, that was..."
>"Nice. Very nice."
>"Yes. Good night, Anon."
>And with just one more backwards look to you, she's in with the door closed
>You allow that smile from earlier to grace your lips
>"Good night, Miss Rarity."
>Yes it was

>You're coming up to your home with something of a spring in your step when you spy a silhouette. Christ, you should have known Flutters would have to stop by and ruin the... night... for... you...
>Fluttershy doesn't have a blue coat or rainbow coloured mane and tail. Something about this just isn't right at all.
>"Hey dude, so how'd your date go?"
>And that tone is entirely far too light for that kind of question
>Looks like you might not get any sleep tonight. Again

>Considering what just happened that morning Dash really shouldn't be smiling quite so widely as she's doing. Then again, it doesn't look all that genuine
>"Didn't stay over and do the dirty, huh? Afraid she was gonna take it too far?"
>And now there comes an edge creeping into her voice. She's down on her haunches, hoof in the air
>"Yannow you could always invite me in, it doesn't even have to be anything serious, just a little fun, huh?"
>"Dash-"
>"Or am I 'not your type'? Is your type only the crazy rapist who just talks about all the ways she could win you over!
>Down comes the hoof as well as her eyebrows
>"How do ya know this isn't one of her tricks?"
>It's too late for this. You're tired, you've had a good evening and you really would like to go to bed, seeing as you actually do have to help Twilight out tomorrow. Nothing too hectic but you'd promised to assist, with the promise of some extra pay
>"I don't. But that's what giving her a chance means."
>"Oh but you won't give me a chance?"
>You both stop there but Dash is the one to sigh first
>"Look, dude, I'm sorry, okay? This is... it's hard."
>You know it is and you're not going to pretend you know exactly what she's feeling but at the same time this doesn't have to be the way it ends
>"Sure. I'll just go and... leave you..."
>You don't get a chance to respond before she's taken to the air

>You hope - really hope - that this is really the start of the problems being ironed out but a part of you knows it can't be that simple. You're going to have Dash upset like this and you're just going to have to take it and hope that she'll see sense eventually
>Inside you head for the kitchen again and curse under your breath at forgetting to restock the brandy. You had also wanted to give -that- up but current events were conspiring to see you back on that track
>You barely get your clothes off before you throw yourself into bed, events from the previous night and today finally catching up on you as you immediately fall into a deep sleep

>Morning is a little better than the last - a heartier breakfast instead of morose contemplation and badly prepared oatmeal. After all, you still have that meeting with Rarity to look forward to. Even if Dash's words still sit at the back of your mind
>At the library Twilight seems eager to ask about last night - you can see by the way she constantly looks up from her books or sets down her apparatus, about to say something but suddenly turning back to it
>She doesn't openly pry and you don't really feel like talking about it right now. You're just glad Spike has stayed out of your hair, as that's another conversation you dread having to have, as inevitable as it may be

>Twilight's looking back at you again when you ask if she'd mind you taking your break. Truth be told it's a little earlier than you'd normally take it and the smile she wears makes it clear she suspects why you're doing so. Again, you don't divulge any details
>You'd never imagined that walking to the Carousel Boutique could fill you with such... not exactly joy but definitely more peace than it had before

>As you approach the building you're almost sure you can hear voices

>"... gonna tell 'im about all'a those things?"
>"How could you even suggest something like that? I've told you I've changed - I'm not like... that any more."
>"Sure, Rar', whatever you say."
>There's another of those voices you recognise. The lazy southern drawl and smug tone tell you all you need to know about who it is. What's a little more cryptic is just what they're talking about
>"All I'm sayin' is how d'ya know he ain't the type that'd like, ahem, Madame Rarity?"
>Thinking the better of continuing the listen in you push open the door and step inside to see a grinning Applejack and incredibly chagrined looking Rarity
>"Well lookee, if it ain't the man o' the hour. We was just havin' ourselves a talk about-"
>"Nothing! Noting at all important! Certainly nothing that involves this gentlecolt!"
>Applejack saunters over to her, knocking her side with a foreleg and widening her grin. Rarity just tries to look like there's nothing happening
>"Aww, c'mon Rar', don't'cha think he aughta know all about what yer gonna do to him?"
>"Applejack! What did I tell you?"
>But you can see shame and anger warring over her face, with shame winning out easily as her cheeks darken noticeably
>Applejack, sniggering, rolls onto her back and holds her hind legs apart, grunting and undulating her body
>"Oh! Oh, Mr Anon, spank mah flanks and call me yer naughty little pony-y-y bahahaha!"
>The farce quickly breaks down as she rolls to her side, laughter overcoming her

>The expression on Rarity's face changes, anger now winning over but still obviously flustered
>That is, before her own grin starts to form
>"And shall we tell him of what you wanted him to do with your Golden Delicious'? Ah, perhaps we can discuss those 'special' apple fritters you were going to bake."
>Applejack halts suddenly, looking up to her friend with wide eyes. Pushing herself to her hooves she looks at you, to Rarity and then to one of the windows, her own face darkening
>Well this has been productive. As much as you're going to catch flack for it later, you decide to solve this yourself
>"Applejack, I think I left my laundry out this morning, would you mind taking it in for me? My house should be unlocked."
>Now that certainly got her attention. Clearly by the way she springs to your side she understands what kind of opportunity this presents to her and, nodding, she quickly sets off, stopping to look back once
>"I'll be sure to fix errythin' up for ya, sugarcube. You have fun with -snerk- Madame Rarity, now."
>She's off, laughter trailing behind her. Rarity however, still looks rather put out and you can't blame her. If she's making the effort to change then having her past brought up can't be easy
>"You know, I-"
>"It's alright."
>She stops trailing her hoof around the floor and looks up to you, the tears that had obviously been forming at the corners of her eyes now drying up
>"It's just... you know... even a lady has her... fantasies..."
>Rarity's been embarrassed enough so, perhaps, you can bring yourself down just a little, if it's enough to set her right

>Leaning down you place a hand on her shoulder. She looks to it then back to you. A hoof rises and rubs at her eyes, a little sniffle follows
>"Why don't you go on into the living room and I'll make us some tea. There's something I want to tell you I think will make you feel a little better."
>Rarity nods and does so, walking off slowly to the back part of the shop. You can already picture her reclined on the chaise lounge, a hoof at her forehead and wearing a stricken look. Even her melodrama had its own charm
>The kitchen is, as you expected, immaculate and well stocked. Naturally, the fridge lacks the variety of cold meats you might like but you'd long since accepted the facts of living in a society of herbivores
>You have to wonder, though, at the various implements kept. Surely Rarity wasn't a dab hand at cookery too? The day might come when you would get to see but for now you had to find a suitable tea
>A lady of her refinement, you knew, would be sure to keep a variety. The names were different but it was easy to identify Earth analogues and only moments then until you found something close enough to Assam to do. Now, just to find the spices...
>Another reason to be thankful she keeps so much. With the milk set to heat you call into her

>"You know, you're not the only one with fantasies."
>There's a pause and what sounds like Rarity shifting
>"I should suppose not."
>Evidently you're going to have to be a little more direct if you're to pull her out of this slump
>"You suppose correctly. In fact, just last night I had a rather vivid one myself. While sleeping."
>Another pause, though longer this time, more sounds of shifting. Yes, you've got her attention
>The milk's heating nicely, you stir it absently, casting your mind back to the dream. And the result you woke up to
>"It's been three long years here and in all that time I'd... kept certain thoughts under wraps. But last night, I had a dream about a lady."
>Even over the gentle scraping of the spoon against the pot you hear her shift once again
>"What was she like?"
>A smile creases your lips as you allow yourself to become mesmerised by the swirling liquid
>"Oh she was quite beautiful. A coat as white as snow, mane like an emperor's robe and eyes like the bluest moon. And she had joined me at my home, after we'd spent the evening together, just enjoying each other's company."
>The mixture's heating nicely, the scents of anise and ginger rising to tempt you. You dearly hope she finds it as comforting as you do
>"Did she... did she retire to join you, after?"
>"Oh yes. We had quite the time she and I."
>Oh no. You hadn't quite meant to let that little nugget slip out. Dance around it, suggest it and perhaps even hint at it but certainly you didn't feel bold enough - and didn't want to encourage her bad behavior - to more directly mention it

>In your thoughtlessness - or rather, becoming lost in your thoughts - you almost let the tea boil too much, before taking it up and straining it into two cups
>"So you mean... ?"
>The tone is light and airy, filled with the kind of cheer you wanted to hear
>"Yes."
>"That dream, it was about me, wasn't it."
>"Yes!"
>A pause
>"We were-"
>"YES!"
>Ah, boiling this mixture you just remember you need to pick up spaghetti later on. Perhaps it's just as well you'd run out before now...

>Entering the living room you see that, yes, Rarity is indeed reclined on her chaise lounge but instead of looking as upset as she had been she's got a foreleg pressed to her mouth, very badly hiding some furious giggling
>"So you see, Miss Rarity, a lady may have her fantasies but her mind will never be as perverse as a man's."
>She levitates the cup out of your hand and over to herself. She looks down into the brown mixture turning back up to you
>"Thank you, darling. And don't worry, I shan't go spilling your secret to anyp0ny. Even if that blush is -most- becoming!"
>Now feeling suitably embarrassed you sit down on the seat closest to her. And watch as she levitates the cup to her nose, eyes half closing as she breathes in the scent. They pop open, looking over to you suddenly
>"What is this? It smells simply divine!"
>It might be that you can have just a little more fun with her. No harm in that, after all
>"It's a type of tea we call masala chai. I discovered it many years ago when I was traveling through the Indian subcontinent, searching for the lost tomb of Pradish Khan..."

>"Honestly, Anon, I know Rainbow Dash is fond of her tall tales-"
>Ouch. There's a name you could have done without hearing
>"-but this is simply too much!"
>That laughter, however, is something you do like to hear. The whole thing had been made up as you went along, spiraling out of control around about the time the Princess Kamiyam had her hundred personal guards chase you and your companion from her palace
>"Mmm, but those silk robes did sound positively marvelous. Which reminds me, didn't your coming here have another purpose? Beyond just brightening up my day?"
>Brightening up your own day, perhaps. But she's right, and you had to admit that you couldn't continue to take Rarity out wearing the shabby outfit you'd kept for formal occasions. Though where to begin in explaining the basics of human fashion...
>You'd need a proper suit, to start with, with more presentable clothing for casual wear. If you were going to be seen with her you may as well match her own flair for the tastefully elegant
>"I've got a few ideas I can run past you, if you don't mind."
>She titters softly, in the way that doesn't feel insidious any more
>"But of course, you would be more familiar with human fashion than I am."
>Rising with her, you proceed back out into the shop front and through that into the workroom at the back

>Every inch of the room contains bolts of fabrics, equipment, ponyquins and clothing in varying stages of completion. A familiar blue and gold number sits prominently though it looks different, the cut a little higher with ruffles drawn about the neck and legs
>"Now, darling, I shall need to take your measurements."
>Rarity dutifully levitates a pen, pad and measuring tape to herself before turning back to you with a smirk. Oh yes, she was sure to enjoy this
>"You've made clothes for me before, is it really necessary?"
>The items drop suddenly, the mare pulling back into a gasp, the red glasses she now wears almost falling from her nose
>"Why of course it is! It's been so long that the shape of your body is sure to have changed enough that anything I make would sit horridly upon your broad shoulders and... slim waist..."
>And of course she couldn't neglect to get a little comment in

>"Don't worry, I remember the body shyness you humans have, I shan't ask you to undress fully. Not that I would... object, if you were to do so."
>Chuckling softly to yourself you walk behind one of the screens she keeps and proceed to undress down to your underwear
>"I'm afraid I haven't much experience designing for colts, darling, I do hope you won't mind sharing your own knowledge on the subject with me!"
>"And I'm sure you'd like nothing more."
>Soft tittering, the sound of a magical aura lifting items
>Undressed, you step out to a Rarity who takes a quick look at you before glancing off
>"My! I always scoffed at all those frivolous games you'd play with that Rainbow Dash but the exercise has been very kind to your physique."
>You suppose it had. Life in Equestria did not lend the same conveniences the human world did, with far more manual labour required for tasks normally automated or assisted on Earth. Not to mention how much you had enjoyed taking to sports with your new friend

>"Now, stand straight please!"
>Rarity proceeds to press the measuring tape against you, one end on your side as it extends around your midriff. From there she moves further up to the chest, shoulders and arms ("Be sure to keep them nice and straight, now! I simply cannot permit slouching!"), pausing briefly when she moves down
>"I know what you must think but... please bear in mind this is my job, and I treat it with the seriousness and professionalism it deserves."
>You nod down and she runs the tape up your leg, pausing briefly to giggle at how you shiver at the sensation
>"I'm a professional, darling but even I know when and how to break the tension."
>She's a little more reserved taking your inseam, either concentrating on what she's doing or very much not trying not to think about where her hooves are wandering
>"Finished!", she calls out in a sing-song tone
>You walk off behind the screen and redress yourself, coming around to see her already with charcoal at the ready, sketching up a few... interesting designs upon paper
>"You know, what I wear -is- closer to the pants you sometimes see stallions wearing than any of your skirts."
>She blushes slightly, setting down the charcoal
>"My apologies, force of habit, you know how it is."
>You do
>"Well, if I'm to be seen with you at formal dinners and events, first off I'm going to need a suit - a proper suit - with some more presentable casual clothing. A good jacket and pants to suit. Oh! And new shoes. Can't believe I've been wearing these glorified moccasins you made for so long..."

>"Oh of course, it wouldn't do do have you going about in those... rags. Now, I shall need to know how different your own idea of a suit is from mine."
>And so you set about describing, as best you can with your knowledge, the various cuts used for suits. Single-breasted, of course, you're far from your father's age; wool would be preferable with the lining her own choice - you don't want to dictate too greatly over her experience - but keep the colouration formal and subdued.
>Notched lapel, this isn't a suit for black tie; something more formal can be done later when the occasion calls for it.
>"My, this doesn't sound that different from the current trends. 'Twould seem tasteful clothing is a universal desire!"
>Yes, that may be. Pants should match the jacket and kept to a suitable length. Oh! And a waistcoat! If you're to be seen with a lady of her stature within society you can't go about looking like a glorified churl with airs about himself
>"A... waistcoat?"
>"Yes, it's a sleeveless garment worn over the shirt. Went out of style for quite some time but it's come back and I'm quite fond of them, if I'm to be honest."
>"Ah! A plastron! Oh yes, of course you should have one! They've become quite vogue in Canterlot you know, all those stiff upper lips finally thought a little casualness was warranted."
>"Funny, that was much the same reason it was developed by us."
>"Really? Oh do tell!"
>And so the conversation swings its way to the evolution of fashion trends, something you didn't realise you had some knowledge of

>"Really, I know more about history than fashion."
>Rarity pulls back from the drawings she'd been idly working on throughout the conversation
>"Oh but darling, the study of history -is- the study of fashion! Don't you know that it is, by it's nature, cyclical? One must be mindful of what has gone before in case it should become vogue once more, or might be altered to bring a new age flair to an old world classic! Your Charles the second must have been a visionary of his time to know the style would last so long."
>"You might say that... But he wouldn't have been the first to take influence from the East."
>"Hmm?"
>"Another great man from our history, Alexander the third of Macedon adopted the Persian style among himself and his men. He did suffer ridicule among his compatriots for seeming to have gone soft..."
>"How uncouth! If these styles from the Eastern parts of you world are as magnificently indulgent as they sound then -I- would not permit such calumnies against their obvious superiority!"
>"But they had their own cultural styles ingrained and adopting the Persians was seen as supporting them as it was softening of their culture!"
>Rarity drops the charcoal again, turning to you with a serious set to her brow
>"And what would a little softening have done except to introduce some variance among their stale ideas!"
>You can't help but smile at her and her frown deepens, asking just why are you smiling at her like that, do you think it's permissible to smirk at a lady!
>"No, no! It's just... you really don't have any problem airing your own ideas."
>Of course I shouldn't! One lives or dies in fashion by how willing they are to be honest about their creations."

>"So! That's the suit all ironed out and I'm sure I've got a good enough idea for that tasteful jacket and trouser combination you also wanted. Now for those shoes."
>You set about describing, in excruciating detail, how to shape some Oxford shoes and a pair more in keeping with the jacket, trouser combo as well as a pair for more every day wear
>"And one last thing, if you wouldn't mind not putting too many gems in-"
>If she looks any more horrified you're likely to start thinking you're so eldritch horror, come to terrify her
>"But Anon, one must be made to shine like the sun if one wishes to stand out!"
>"And you can put gems in but mens clothing, at least where I'm from, is more conservative than that. Just... please remember not too much? I'll let you decide for yourself what's appropriate."
>With a huff she picks the charcoal up once more and starts working on designs for the shoes

>"Very well... Now if you'll excuse me I've much work to do."
>You don't go though, there is still one little matter left unattended to
>"Rarity, I... I'm afraid it's going to take me some time to pay for all this."
>"Nonsense! I wouldn't dream of accepting any recompense for creating this! Why it could open up all sorts of opportunities if I'm to expand my catalog into the male fashion world. I could make an even bigger name for myself!"
>The stars in her eyes are too bright for you to think of popping her idle dreams
>"Well I can't just let you make all this without offering something! How about I take you out again next week and don't worry - I'll be sure to find something more appropriate for us."
>The lady leaps from her work and embraces you suddenly, something you don't have time to think of a response to save hold her yourself
>"Oh darling that would be marvelous! I'll be sure to have our new outfits done so we may be the talk of the town!"
>You depart shortly thereafter, satisfied with all you'd done but unsatisfied with how late you're going to be!

>The library is unusually quiet when you arrive there. Twilight, however, is waiting with a grin for you. Better than waiting, ready to tear into you for being late
>"You took your time. Have fun with Rarity taking your, ahem, measurements?", even you admit to yourself that little giggle is cute
>"And when did you become master of innuendo?"
>Her face flushes and you see her push a book back with a hind leg, one you're quite sure you see 'Mastering Innuendo' on the spine of
>"I'm just... sharpening my wit! All this reading sure is paying off!"
>You're about to share a laugh in her shenanigans when heavy stomping approaches from the kitchen
>"I'm finished doing the dishes, Twi, is it okay if I go see Rarity?"
>Wow, the little guy sounds pissed. As if his harsh tone wasn't enough he's actually glared up at you on Rarity's name
>"Sure, Spike, just be sure to get back before it's dark."
>But he doesn't leave immediately, instead he turns to face you, arms crossed and brow set
>"And you! You better stay away from my girl!"
>You throw your hands up in mock defeat, a gesture Spike doesn't appear to appreciate as his claws fly to his sides, clenched into fists
>"Whoah, I'm not trying to muscle in on anyone's territory!"
>With much grumbling the young dragon storms off, though you're almost certain you hear a few choice oaths followed by your name
>Twilight offers you a sympathetic, if long suffering, glance
>"Don't worry about him, I'm sure he'll get over it."

>Twilight's thankfully not otherwise upset at your tardiness. The research wasn't as difficult as she'd thought and most had been completed by the time you'd arrived back. In fact, you were allowed to quit a little earlier than usual today, something you were glad for as the weather was scheduled to be good for the rest of the evening
>You're a little dismayed to find Dash isn't around any of her usual hangouts and especially down when she doesn't turn up for the bi-weekly hoofball tournament. Many's the time it would serve as the highlight to that week, a chance to forget about your situation without the hammer subtlety of alcohol
>Which serves to remind you to pick up a bottle of brandy on the way home. If you don't have your bro you'll at least still have a way to drown your sorrows

>In fact, for the next three days you don't run into Dash once. Not only that but your mornings change. The first, you don't notice right away before it hits you: you haven't received the weather schedule.
>Every morning Dash would drop it by your home as a little courtesy. So now she's avoiding you and going so far as to even avoid your home at times when you wouldn't be around to intercept her. The thought of actually losing her had started to dampen the lift your spirits had been given after that afternoon with Rarity
>Rarity. At least you still had your... well, you suppose you could call it a date, with her this weekend to look forward to.
>Yes, things had certainly begun to turn around for her. She'd been behaving herself and it showed in her demeanor too. Where before any advances would always hold that little bit of strain to them - to the point where even meeting with you outside those circumstances added a ring of awkwardness - she seemed much more comfortable around you. And you her. It was helping to add a feeling of normalcy to your life

>Still, you're not going to allow everything to be ruined. That's why today you decide, with the weather staying good, to head back out to the lake. The peace should bring with it the need to just wallow in self-pity over Dash but you're oddly content. Perhaps it's the memories of what happened here last week...

>"I thought I might find you out here!"
>You know that affected Manehattenite accent all too well. In fact, you'd come to enjoy it's tones recently
>"In fact, I've noticed you have a habit of coming out here. Any particular reason?"
>You turn and see that Rarity is already seated next to you, the sunlight from the lake playing over her features beautifully once more
>"Just nice to get away from the bustle; enjoy the world's natural beauties."
>She turns and sees you looking at her and you both turn aside, hoping her own cheeks are as flushed as your own
>"I suppose you wouldn't care for company, in that case."
>"As long as it's suitable company I'm all for it."

>Yes, you hear her shuffling and then feel her presence as she sits close beside you. You don't want to let her see you smile you really don't but you just can't suppress it. Her charm was exactly what you needed right now to help bring you out of the slump
>"You haven't called to see me this week, Anon. Is everything alright?"
>No
>"Yes, of course it is."
>"It's just that I haven't seen you with Rainbow Dash since the weekend and I know how much you enjoy her company."
>Ostensibly, it sounds innocent enough but could Rarity be implying something more? She could hardly be... jealous, could she?
>"We... had a bit of a falling out."
>"Oh? I do hope I wasn't the cause of it."
>"How did ya guess?"
>Oh bugger, that raspy voice was another one so familiar to you. This was exactly what you had hoped to avoid, at least for a long, long time

>Your mind speeds through certain thoughts: at least Dash is here and can talk to you. Rarity is also here, this is bad. Is Dash going to screw things up for you? Was she just starting to feel better and now this is going to throw her for a loop? Is this going to bother Rarity, with whatever she had meant with that comment about Dash?
>"Rainbow Dash, how lovely of you to join us! Anon here was just telling me you two had a little tiff but now you're here I'm sure you two can work things out smashingly!
>Rainbow steps forward from your side, opposite the one Rarity is on. You can't help but feel like the proverbial lamb between two wolves, the thought of just sinking into the ground right now quite a nice one
>"Oh so he's talkin' to you about me? Is that right, Anon?"
>There's been few times in the past when Dash had glared at you - really given you the evil eye - and it had never felt good. Moreso because you considered her such a close friend than anything else
>"Rarity was just asking why she hadn't seen us together-"
>"I thought we had that worked out."
>"That's not what I meant and you know it!"

>Rarity looks between the two of you at this exchange and, glancing over to her, you see confusion mixed with worry play across her features
>"Sh-should I leave?"
>"No."
>"Yes!"
>Dash glares at you again, this time you return it
>"Is there a problem we need to talk about?"
>"Are you bucking kidding me? you don't see what it is?"

>"Well if it's so obvious why don't you spell it out!"
>"I don't need to when it's sitting right next to you!"
>Ouch. That fucking hurt. There was a time when you might have even agreed with that summation but now you see just what kind of effect it has on the lady
>She stands and, giving a teary glance to her friend and then you turns away
>"I... I think I'd better leave you two..."
>"Rarity, wait!"
>But she doesn't stop as the light trot turns into a full gallop, the last thing you see, her tail as it rounds a building in the distance and is lost

>Turning back to your interlocuter you give her the harshest look you can muster
>"What the fuck was that, Dash?!"
>"Aww, don't buckin' play dumb again! I can't believe what you're doing!"
>You stand and take a few paces off from her, hoping to work out some of the excited energy you now find yourself filled with. The idea of taking your fists to the tree seems tempting, were it not such an odd thought
>"Christ, just tell me what I'm doing wrong here!"
>"Why was -she- here?!"

>And with that one little question she completely disarms you. It's just so... self-evident. And yet you know, of course you know, there's much more to it than that. The implication behind if is clear: Rarity shouldn't be here - with you
>"You wanna give me a reason why?"
>Now Dash throws her hooves up before taking to the air, flitting about you
>"Oh I dunno, maybe because this is our spot? Maybe because it's something -we- do? It's something I kinda look forward to doing with you because it lets me get close to you?"
>Oh Christ... she's tearing up. She's just stopped flying about and has now started settling down in front of you, looking up with all the fire in her eyes gone and just the plaintive look you'd seen days before
>"You know? I-It's not like I might have liked just being able to... to sit out here with you and pretend we..."
>She chokes, her wings flapping out but falling uselessly to her sides as she raises a hoof to rub harshly over her eyes
>"... I dunno, pretend we had something. But now... now -she's- here you're... you're ruining that!"

>Your anger flares up suddenly but it subsides just as quick. You'd been missing Dash these past few days and now here was your chance to talk to her. That day had ended on an edge, you had to put an end to this or both relationships wold be lost
>"Dash, you know it can't be."
>She looks up to you, cheeks moist and eyes red and suddenly lunges at you, throwing her forelegs over your shoulders and throwing you onto your backside. You'd never seen her break down like this until recently and the reflex isn't something you've developed but you still bring your arms up to complete the embrace

>"But... but can't I just pretend? Can't you... you even give me that?"
>You hate to hear her cry, hate to hear her sob and choke. It chews you up in a way you never knew it could. You want her to stop, you want all of this to just go away but the only way to do that would be to give up what you've just discovered with Rarity. Starting anything with Dash would just have too much history to it, besides all that
>"Dash... please don't do this. Please. I love you, I'll always love you but you have to accept-"
>She buries her muzzle in against your chest, sobs shaking her body. You feel her forelegs clutch you tighter. It hurts, yes it does but it's either hurt now or just draw the pain out
>"You have to accept that I can't give you what you want. I'm sorry."
>It's not enough. It could never be enough. So the only thing you can do is hold her in your arms as she cries herself out. Stroke her mane but stay silent, any comforting words being lost to what you've just said

>The sun is close to the horizon by the time she's stopped. Her tears have stopped and her breathing has steadied but there's still the odd little sob now and then. Three years. Three years and you could have just nipped this in the bud. Your cowardice, that's all this is because of. Because you were afraid to admit you could love a pony
>But now? Now you knew you wanted to continue giving Rarity that chance. You wanted to see where it could lead and had the highest hopes it could blossom into something beautiful.
>But would it be worth it if you had to sacrifice not only this friendship but crush Dash's hopes?


>"Dash?"
>A groan, she stirs against you. Her chest hitches and she pushes in against you once more. You sigh, knowing this has to end sometimes tonight.
>"Dash, c'mon, it's alright."
>She pushes off from you slowly and... wow. Her eyes are even redder than before and her cheeks are still damp. Her face is practically a picture of misery as her mouth is drawn down into a deep frown
>You can almost feel the life being sucked out of you just looking at her. This isn't the Rainbow Dash you know and love but then, that -was- your fault wasn't it?
>"C'mon, I'll take you home."

>You had to practically - no strike that -actually- - carry Dash over your shoulder, to the point just beneath her cloud home. She'd finally settled down enough that she wasn't sobbing any more, you now just hoped she hadn't fallen asleep
>"Dash? We're gonna have to part for tonight. But you come see me first thing tomorr-"
>"No... I don' wanna go home..."
>You stifle a sigh. If she wanted to play the sulking child there wasn't really much you could do
>"I wanna... wanna go home with you..."
>Yeah, and think of the problems that'd cause. If the situation weren't quite so delicate you might have allowed her but you had to finish this now
>"You can't. I'm sorry."
>You search for other words but it all just seems so empty, so vapid. You even regret what you just said and especially the clipped tone you used. But Dash takes the lead at last
>She just leaps from your grasp, into the air and is gone up to her home without a backwards glance
>You stay for a moment longer, knowing you can't see if she's inside safely, through the cloud but unable to deny yourself the gesture

>Back at home you don't even bother to make something to eat. Not now, Jesus not after that evening you've just put in
>The only thing that looks remotely inviting is that bottle of brandy. Taking up a glass alongside it you settle down on your couch for the night

>You're sitting back on your couch with much of the bottle empty. It was good stuff, the expensive kind, the kind you knew would do its job well. There was some stupid movie blaring on the TV but you weren't watching it, not really.
>Heavy thumps against the door, you're pretty sure if your head wasn't swimming like this or the world wasn't doing cartwheels it'd be easier to get there. But you make if, after only a few curses and probably some bruises
>Open 'er up and there's a buff tan mare staring up at you not looking that pleased. What the hell does she want?
>"You lied t'me about them clothes! I musta spent a good half hour- whooee! Whut in tarnation is that smell?"
>She turns her nose up to you, sniffing. You don't pull back or stop breathing down onto her. Doesn't matter
>"You gone an had yerself a good time, Anon?"
>That smirk... yeah, maybe you can have a good time alright. Forget about all this bullshit
>"Not... eugh, not yet. Wanna come in and... heh heh, come?"
>Seeing that face light up is just what your booze addled mind needs right now. You stand aside, leaning back against the door as she pushes on through, grabbing a glass from the kitchen before heading straight into the living room
>Stumbling back into it yourself, you see she's on the couch, sitting beside where you were. You flop down, throwing one arm over her and another out to grab your glass

>"Y'know App... Appa... App-jack, I shoulda... shoulda done thish a long... time ago... IN A GALAXY... !"
>You feel a hoof at your chest before you can finish. Huh, guess she wants to get started early. But it's way, way too early for you
>"You gotta... drink up before!"
>"Mmm, I like yer thinkin', sugarcube."
>Oh, so she'd already poured herself a glass? Great minds think alike, you guess. Why is she scrunching her face up like that? Is it too strong for her? The Great Applejack?
>"C'mon... drink!"
>And boy does she...

>You've both been at it... you've no idea. At some stage either you or Applejack got your pants undone and she's had a hoof jammed in it since. Idiot, maybe if you hadn't drunk so much you'd be up for some fun but she seems pretty happy just playing around with it
>You've also started sharing your own glasses with her. It's only fair, seeing as you got an early start. It's not fair that she collapses on the couch a little later, before either of you could forget your worldly cares in each other's embrace
>Pfft, ponies, bunch of lightweights. Can't take their booze, can't take their pain, can't take the heartache...
>No. No! That's why you're drinking... Ah forget it. You've got work tomorrow, might as well drag your sorry ass to bed. Applejack can sleep here if she's not even going to have the decency to try.

>You wake up to blinding pain. Really, it's like Celestia has descended from the heavens and started boring her horn into your skull. Or it could be that she made today too bright
>Just once you wish she'd go out and get hammered, at least then she'd know what it's like to get up on a morning like this. At least get her hardass hammered, might loosen her up a little...
>It's with such delightful thoughts that you peel yourself from the bed and try to navigate your way into the bathroom, despite your minds insistent protestations that the sound of your walking is far, far too loud
>Yep, you look like a mess. Well, nothing else for it but to take a hot shower. At least wash some of the stench off yourself

>Going downstairs you... smell booze. You'd just washed yourself thoroughly, you shouldn't stink-
>Why is Applejack on your couch, snoring loudly? Through the haze of memory you think you might have invited her in. Being felt up by her was the least your drunk ass deserved for that stupidity
>There's nothing else for it but to throw her over your shoulder and carry her outside. This is too unnerving to accept eating at home, you can just grab a quick bite to eat on the way to the library

>You're just finishing off the sandwich when you arrive, pushing on through and hoping there aren't too many patrons today to use that squeaky door
>"Good mornin, A- Wow, rough night?"
>"Do I look that bad?"
>Twilight continues looking you over for a moment more before sighing and going into her kitchen
>"Come on, you're not going to get any work done like that. Not yet anyway. I'll make us some coffee and we can have a talk."

>"And that's all that's been going on."
>Twilight hadn't been as close to you as Rainbow but right now she's about as good a friend as you're going to get, to talk to about all this. Might not be the best idea considering her own inexperience but even talking about it makes you feel somewhat better about the whole thing
>So the two of you are now sitting in the kitchen, having gone through more coffee than you're sure is healthy but at least your hangover is starting to dissipate. Maybe she put something in it or has been using magic...
>"Wow, can't say I envy you. But I think I understand why Rainbow's so upset."
>At your questioning look she goes on
>"She made me promise not to tell you but considering the circumstances I think it's okay. She really had a thing for you. Not like Applejack or Fluttershy, she really loved you, Anon. She told me that's why she'd never do anything like that."
>You take another sip of the coffee, thankful that it's still hot. Equestrian coffee tasted a little sweeter than the kind you'd been used to back on Earth but at least it could still get you motoring
>"How could you do that to her?"
>Nobody ever does a spit take like you'd see in the movies. You either choke it down or just sort of cough it out. You've got your wits about you enough to do the former
>"Me? What did I do to her?"
>Twilight stamps a hoof down, a gesture you'd regularly seen Dash perform. It's almost comical how much softer it is in comparison, though her eyes still hold all the fire of her anger
>"You lead her along and then you just... broke her heart! Do you know she called into me last week to tell me how upset she was? I thought maybe she was just overreacting and that this whole thing with Rarity wasn't that serious. She loved you first, Anon!"

>Where your hangover was going, a new headache was moving in to replace it. The strain of research may be put off for now but it looked like you were still going to be under pressure

>"Lead her along? What are you talking about, I never gave any indication I was interested."
>"But you never explicitly told you you didn't like her."
>"I thought that was implied by the fact I had explicitly stated I'd no interest in ponies."
>"Not then."
>"I didn't know this was going to happen!"
>You shouldn't have slammed the cup down so hard. A crack runs through the base and coffee sloshes out of it
>Twilight sighs and magicks a repair on the cup and lifts the moisture over to the sink
>"Rainbow loving me first doesn't come into it."
>"I don't see how it doesn't. She knew, you knew but you still went off with Rarity instead. Don't you care about her?"
>"Of course I do!"
>Just take your hand off the cup, settle the two in your lap and try to calm down. This isn't Twilight's fault
>"But I'm with Rarity now, I made a promise to her. Twi, I think I might be falling for her."
>She looks up at you in confusion, anger, pain, pride... a whole gamut of emotion plays across her face
>"You have to make this up to Rainbow."
>"I don't think I can. We just want different things; friendships like that never work out."
>"Anon, if there's one thing I've learned it's that friendship is only as strong as you make it. If you care for a pony enough to want to be her friend you'll do what it takes to stay her friend."
>Being lectured about friendship by Twilight Sparkle. It would almost be absurd if she didn't have a point
>"Sure, Twi. I'll figure something out."
>You hope

>The rest of the morning and afternoon passes in... you can't say a companionable silence, not after that but the air is cleared somewhat at least. You take your break, knowing there's only one place you need to be

>Before you reach the door of Carousel Boutique you can see in the window that not all is as it should be. There's a dishevellment to the place that isn't right. In fact you'd only seen it like this a few times previously
>Again, you don't knock before entering but the cheerful tinkling of the bell isn't quite so welcoming when it lacks the equally cheerful greeting of its owner
>The lady isn't anywhere around the front of the store but you're sure you can hear the sound of the sewing machine being used. Sure enough, there in the workroom a haggard looking Rarity is hunched over some new creation, her tired eyes straining to see through her glasses
>"Rarity?"
>She jumps and looks up from her work, now giving you a perfect view of the bags under her eyes
>"Oh... Anon, how... how are you?"
>You don't say a word, only walk straight over and put your arms around her
>She sobs suddenly, quietly against you
>"I'm sorry... I'm sorry I did that..."
>You pull her tighter
>"No, it's not your fault. This is something between myself and Dash. If she can't accept us... well it's just her loss."
>She sniffs, putting her forelegs on your arms
>"I don't want you to lose her..."
>"And I don't want to lose you."
>You hold Rarity for a few moments longer before letting go, allowing her to sit herself just a little straighter than she was before
>"Dash and I? We can figure this out ourselves, you just concentrate on us."
>She sniffs once more before turning around, a small smile tugging back her lips
>"Us?"

>"I think my trust has been well placed so far, Rarity. I admit, three years of doubt doesn't just go away but you look like you're making a real effort."
>"Oh I am! I-I am!"
>"And in that case I think I'm going to be with you for the long haul."
>She takes a deep, shuddering breath before rising and standing tall. For a mare, it's surprising how she comes as high as your chest
>"Thank you, darling. That means quite a lot to me. Speaking of us!"
>Her horn lights up and you spot something floating towards the two of you from the corner of your eye
>"I managed to get your suit all done for this weekend! I still want to take a little time for your casual jacket, however, getting the colour and fabric just right is... it's a challenge but then there's nothing I love more."
>The clothes are gently deposited in your outstretched arms but Rarity continues to look up at you expectantly
>"Well? Come along now, you simply must fit them on! Oh I can only imagine how dashing you must look in them!"
>Not one to deny a lady her request - and feeling quite eager to fit the suit on yourself - you slip behind a screen and begin to change. Hmm, dark grey, good thing she kept the colour subdued as you wanted. Lining feels like its silk and... lavender? Yes, it's quite pleasing. Waistcoat sits snugly against your chest and midriff. Now you feel like the 'gentlecolt' Rarity has been speaking of
>"Rarity this fits perfectly! Really, I don't think I've ever had clothing so comfortable."
>A little titter, the sound of it is growing on you
>"Well I am the premier fashion designer in Equestria, darling!"
>Stepping out, yes, it even feels comfortable to walk in! Rarity practically lights up when she sees you

>"How do I look?"
>She trots about, looking you up and down
>"Stitching over the shoulders is fine... no sagging or stretching... hmm, rump seems a little tight..."
>"Complaining?"
>"Certainly not!"
>She finishes her circle and sits down in front of you smiling triumphantly
>"I can already see a new fashion line of casual and formal suits for stallions!"
>Naturally. You look down and are quite taken by the buttons you hadn't quite noticed before. They glint purple against the white shirt
>"Are these... ?"
>"Amethyst, darling. Only the finest without -any- inclusions. I told you I would make you shine!"
>But that's not all. There's something else, something more important you missed. You understand what it is, now
>A lapel pin, or rather three small ones, consisting of three blue diamonds in a marquise cut, arranged to imitate Rarity's cutie mark
>She sees the look you're giving it and speaks up
>"I'd thought you might permit me that little vanity, Anon. Oh! That neck looks horridly bare! I shall have to do something about that... hmm, perhaps a nice cravat to round out the outfit."
>She trots over to her drawing board, charcoal already held up
>"Don't worry, you shan't be without it before this weekend."
>The charcoal is suddenly dropped
>"Oh! Speaking of that, might I enquire as to where we shall be dining?"
>Ah yes, you knew you'd forgotten something

>As casually as you can muster you say, "Have you heard of that new restaurant that's just opened? Le Domaine du Roi?"
>Rarity gives a double-take
>"Th-The Domaine du Roi?! B-But that's impossible to get into! Ponies have been coming from even Manehatten to attend, how did you possibly get a reservation?!"
>Yes, how -did- you?
>"Well... I just told them that I was going to dine there with the most beautiful pony in Equestria and under no circumstances would I be denied."
>You won't. By god you're going to pull this off somehow
>For the second time Rarity leaps into your arms, only now you're ready to catch and hold her
>"Oh darling, thankyou thankyou thankyou! Oh but I have to finish my outfit, I've got to get my hooves polished and my horn filed! I've got to get my mane styled into something fabulous! I-"
>You cut her off with a quick kiss
>"Calm down, as long as you're there I don't care if you're in rags."
>"Rags?! Oh no, no I could never!"
>She smiles, softening her words
>"Thank you, Anon. Really. This is... it's all like a dream come true!"
>And you'll have to find some way of getting that reservation if that's to be so

>You depart after making your goodbyes, heading straight back to the library, the recent unpleasantness forgotten in the wake of what lies ahead of you
Chapter 5

>Work has been better. Then again, days in general have been better than this one. You can't help but feel like Damocles, with Dash's visit later to expect
>You still have no idea what you're going to do - shout at her most likely, she humiliated you, Rarity and herself that day at the faire. She's made this whole thing as difficult as possible ever since you and Rarity came together. So you want to shout at her, to scream and let all the anger you've held against her out
>You want to but wanting and being able to are oft so different. Every time you think of actually seeing her and seeing her sober and willing to make amends you instead want to put it all behind you, like some bad dream and just allow things to get back to normal
>You've even worked on a little later at the library, trying to put it off as long as possible but you can't do it any longer. If only Dash had allowed you to pick an appropriate time instead of foisting it upon you

>Coming up to your home you spot her easily, she's sitting on the doorstep but stands upon seeing you. It almost looks like she's wearing saddlebags but you can't imagine why
>Reaching the house you... you don't know what to do. Dash just stands in front of you, not looking you in the eye but not looking happy either
>"Dude, I..."
>She falters, lowering her head further
>"I'm sorry. Okay? I'm sorry for everything I did."
>She looks up, you nod
>"I-It was wrong but I was just so confused! I couldn't understand and I felt so hurt and thought you wouldn't even want me any more!"
>And there goes your anger, slipping away to be replaced by - if not hope then relief
>"Dash, no matter who comes or goes in my life I'd still want us to be friends."

>She winces at that last word. Obviously it's still going to take some time for her to fully get over her position
>"I know... and... I want that too... and... and I'm glad you and... Rarity are happy..."
>Alright then. She sounds sincere enough
>"Listen, I know things have been tough but... d'ya think I could come in? Maybe we could... watch a few movies like we used to?"
>You smile and nod, opening the door. Maybe this could be the first step on the road back to having her in your life

>You can't offer her a drink, seeing as you've run out some time ago and haven't cared to restock
>But that matter seems to have been taken care of as you return from the kitchen to see Dash lifting bottle after bottle out of her saddlebags
>"Dash..."
>"Hey, it's okay! You don't have to drink but you know there's no other way I can watch a movie."
>Right. Fine. You sit down on the couch, flicking on the TV with the remote and Dash settles next to you
>A part of you would prefer if she didn't sit this close, especially after all that's happened but you're not going to cause an argument now
>Dash settles into drinking. Quite a bit more than you would have expected or maybe it's just that with you drinking with her before you never noticed how much she really drank
>Near the third quarter of the movie she's leaning heavily against you. You're uncomfortable but determined not to kick up a fuss
>That is, until you feel a hoof start to lazily trail against your chest
>"Dash, what are you-"
>"Shhhh! Just... enjoy it."
>The hoof moves down quickly, fumbling at your belt and zipper before the other is brought up to assist

>"Dash! Stop that!"
>You go to brush her hooves away but she bats at your hand, lowering her muzzle to catch the zipper in her teeth
>"Dash!"
>You jump off the couch, the mare falling onto where you'd just been sitting
>"Buck it! What's wrong now?!"
>She's giving you the most irritated look you've seen her put on in a long time. Doesn't she realise what... ah, that's probably why she was drinking
>"Just what in the hell were you doing?"
>"Well gee, maybe if you were drunk too it woulda helped? It worked pretty well for AJ."
>She puts on some sickening drunken smile and bedroom eyes, patting the couch
>"C'mon, I'll getcha a drink and we can have some fun!"

>"Damnit, Dash, what about your apology! What was that?"
>"Augh, it's like you don't get it! I -had- to say that to get in here, duh! But now we're here I can -show- you what I've been talking about."
>No. No you can -not- deal with this shit any more
>"Listen, I don't care what you say or what you do, I will never bed down with you, do you understand? And frankly, I don't think I even want us to be friends if this is how it's going to be."
>Dash just looks at you, wide-eyed for a moment before throwing her hooves up
>"FINE! I-If that's how you -want- it then... then..."
>She starts sobbing suddenly, face slowly lowering onto the couch
>"I... I still want you... why... why don't you... don't you care..."
>Her voice trails off as she buries her head in cushions, weeping loudly
>You're done here. You've had enough, you're going to bed

>Sleep comes with some difficulty, the sounds of Dash loudly sobbing no doubt playing a part in that. She's had her last chance, so now you're just going to have to turf her out. You don't want to, you -really- don't want to but if she's just going to be like this from now on you can't keep doing this

>You awaken to... aw fuck, this is one serious case of morning wood. You groan, trying to shift but... can't? You try again, only to feel like something is on top of you. Is that giggling?
>Yes, there's a lump in your bed. You're definitely not that big - just have to throw back and the covers and-
>It's Dash. She's got your member out through the slit of you boxers, licking at it and giggling. Feeling the covers off her she looks up, smiling
>"See? Told ya I could make ya feel good!"
>With every ounce of strength in your body you throw your legs up, sending Dash into the air with a yelp. Quickly righting your boxers you stand to confront her
>"Get out!"
>"What? Dude, you can see right there-"
>"I said get fucking out! I don't want to see you any more!"

>Her mouth falls open, she works it silently, staring at you
>"You're no better than Flutters or AJ! Get the fuck out and don't you ever come near me again!"
>She continues to stand there, her eyes having grown larger. You grab the clock from your bedside locker and toss it at the wall near her. Dash yelps and turns tail, running off down the stairs. The last sound you hear before the door is thrown open is a loud wail

>You fall back onto the bed, feeling drained. Dash's ham-fisted attempts to separate you and Rarity you could understand, in a way. But this? This was exactly the kind of thing she'd spent years protecting you from
>You're too shocked to do anything more than just sit, staring at the ground, wondering how it could have come to this

>Things start to slowly fall apart after that. You see Rarity after, explaining what's happened. She tells you Dash came to her, telling her you forced yourself on her but when she was unwilling to believe Dash started tearing the place up. In fact, she was still setting everything aright when you got there. But Rarity is still off, you can see it
>She still doesn't tell you why but this is just the beginning. Over the next few weeks you see neither hide nor hair of Dash and oddly AJ but Flutters makes a couple of attempts. All through this Rarity has become increasingly agitated, making mistakes on orders she'd normally become furious over missing, snapping at her friends and even you while at other times breaking down without reason

>It's a week before the fashion show when it comes to a head and you've had enough. She's lying in your arms, not sobbing or weeping but just wanting some comfort
>"Rarity, this can't go on. Can't you please just tell me? Why do you feel like you have to carry this yourself?"
>The lady sniffs, tightening her grip on you before relaxing, taking a deep breath and looking you in the eyes
>"Do you recall when you asked about my childhood in Manehatten?"
>You nod, "You said you didn't want to talk about... it... That's why you're worried about going back, isnt' it?"
>She nods, takes another deep breath
>"You see... when I was still very young..."
>She falters and you squeeze her. "It's alright, just take your time."
>"When I lived in Manehatten it wasn't a terribly happy time in my life. My parents... well, they were at odds, to say the least. My father, he was a wicked, cruel stallion who..."

>Rarity stops momentarily, raising a hoof to wipe at her eye. You rub her back gently, still keeping her close
>"He would... oh, he would do terrible things to mother. He... he worked a miserable job and... and I think he took his frustrations out upon her..."
>She stops again, breathing soft, shuddering breaths
>"If you want to stop..."
>"No. No these are things you... you have to know about me."
>"Alright. But remember you don't have to say anything you don't want."
>She pushes her head in against you for a moment
>"Most evenings it was the same. He would arrive home angry, mother would try to keep things calm but he would just... he'd... she never did anything wrong!"
>The lady halts, sobbing against you. You say nothing just stroking her mane and back, being sure to keep her as close as you can. With time she quietens and begins once more
>"Well... I think it became too much for her because when I awoke one morning she... she was just gone. My father was furious. He... well he said it was -my- fault, that I had been difficult and... and that she didn't love me..."
>More steadying breaths, she rearranges herself with her back to you, head against your chest, sitting into your lap

>"Things became more difficult for us... for me, after that. I would try to hide from him in the evenings but he'd find me and... and..."
>She breaks down once more, turning to push her face into your chest

>She weeps softly for some time, your shirt becoming wet with her tears but you just hold her, letting her get it out
>"He would... he did things to me... horrible, horrible things... he'd whisper 'Now you listen to me Rarity, your mother never gave me what I'...
>The lady whines, hitting the couch next to you
>"... 'what I wanted but you'll be different, I'll show you how'... 'how to treat a stallion'."
>Dear god. There had been a few possibilities running through your mind when she'd told you her childhood was bad but to think that her father would do something like that. That anyone could so that to such a sweet pony...
>"Rarity, I'm so, so..."
>"No, please, I'm alright. I... I've been through the counseling and I've come to terms with it... as best I can. Please, you must let me continue. It... it's the only way you'll understand."
>She looking at you with moistened eyes and you know you cannot deny her
>"You remember the story of how I got my cutie mark?"
>You nod, you'd indeed heard the various tales from the girls

>"Well my father... he wasn't one bit pleased. He... he demanded to know how I would ever find a suitable... mate working in fashion."
>"With mother gone the house... I was the only one who cleaned but it wasn't enough. My father would... he'd come home drunken and even more violent as the days... passed. He would smash our things and... and track dirt everywhere..."
>Another breath, she seems to be getting herself more under control
>"Eventually I... I just had to leave. I took what few bits and clothing I could and set out onto the streets, I didn't care where I went anywhere was better than that."
>Yes, she's definitely better now
>"You've met my parents haven't you? When they've dropped... my dear, sweet sister Sweetie Belle off? Well that's how I met them. They... they found me on the streets, took me in, cared for me - they loved me."
>A tiny, tiny smile is forming on her lips
>"They informed the authorities but my father had left the city and my mother... she couldn't be found."

>"So they... they kept me. As their daughter. They supported me in developing my talent, they took every bit they could and used it to give me the best education I could have. They taught me what -true- generosity is."
>She sniffs once, but the smile doesn't waver
>"But I think they knew how much I disliked the city. A few years later we moved to Ponyville and... I've been here since! Nop0ny here knows my... history and they've all been so terribly good to me."
>She takes a breath, a clear, steady one
>"And that's my story. I hope... I -hope- you don't think any less of me, darling."
>You ponder her words for moments longer. You had been right
>"So when we were... you know..."
>"I was confused. I saw that you were what I wanted but you were so... so disinterested! So I thought... maybe... perhaps my father..."
>"No."
>You pull her close, kissing her mane gently

>"I've had many, many ponies lust after me, Anon. They only wanted me for -what- I am but you... I know you don't."
>"And I know you feel the same, don't you?"
>She nods
>"When you arrived you looked so... exotic. Initially, I did just want you because you were different but when I saw that you had no interest but still treated me politely I knew you weren't like the others. I only wish I had learned to be patient as long ago..."
>"None of that. We're together -now- and you don't need to worry about that."

>You stay like that for some time, not talking, not needing to. The air between you has been cleared, you can feel it
>"Would you like me to go to Manehatten with you?"
>She gasps
>"Would you?"
>"If it'd make you feel better I would. And..."
>You're glad she can't see your blush
>"I think I'd like to spend some time alone. Just us."

>The week leading up to the trip to Manehatten is filled with the kind of excited energy you'd never felt before here. Rarity called the hotel she's staying in requesting a change of rooms - assuring you it was a twin room, not double - and you honestly still weren't sure if anything would even happen between you. But that was okay, wasn't it? She'd said she was willing to wait so you didn't need to force anything
>Still, it would be nice to get away from everything here and see the city. No AJ, no Flutters... no Dash. It still pained you to have to add her to that list but she'd made her bed, she could lie in it now.

>And then comes the train ride to the city. Thankfully you'd found a carriage to share with the lady and had spent the time up on idle chat about the upcoming fashion show. She definitely appeared much more at ease than previously, something you're glad to have been able to help with
>Manehatten... it was so unlike the rustic charm of Ponyville. Oh you'd been to some of Equestria's cities but had never had reason to come to this bustling metropolis. In fact, it was almost like being back home on Earth, back in an industrialised city once more
>"Well, shall we go to our hotel? The show doesn't start until tomorrow so we can use a little of our time to see the city, if you'd like that."
>"As long as I can enjoy your company doing so I would."
>With spirits high you both set off, most gawkers at the odd sight lost in the bustle. You like that, not feeling quite so much like an outsider

>You'd been to Canterlot and you'd even seen the interiors of some of the hotels but you were still floored upon entering the Sky High. Such opulence would well have belonged in the decadent Art Deco themes of the nineteen thirties, with high walls of brass and intricately patterned, lacquered walls adorning every step of its interior
>But then, thinking on it, you realise this is so suitably... Rarity. Beauty wherever one looks, with it being easy to simply scan over it and miss the tiny details that give it its character. The lady sees you looking about and smiles up to you, no doubt enjoying how overwhelmed you are
>"Magnificent, isn't it?"
>You can only nod in response, still looking around now at the ponies bedecked in wearable ornaments. Mares and stallions equally displaying their wealth and taste
>The receptionist passes the two of you an odd look, it's easy to forget a pony and a human travelling together must look an odd sight. Still, it's good to see how she doesn't react too strongly to being told you're staying in a twin room. Perhaps Manehatten has been home to stranger things, you wonder

>Even the bell hop that takes your bags wears a uniform of black and gold, stitching swirling with tiny intracicies about the cuffs and lapels
>And then the room itself... it's larger than you would have thought but then everything about this place gives that feeling of challenging your preconceptions of what should be
>Rarity immediately leaps onto one of the beds, sighing at how she sinks into the soft mattress
>"Oh darling, you simply must sample the bed! It's to die for!"
>She sits up and beckons you over and when you sit... oh yes, you can feel the smoothness of the cotton and the softness of the mattress alright. You could almost...
>You're yanked, suddenly onto your back and from there pulled onto your side. The bed is just about large enough for the lady to squeeze up against you, smiling devilishly

>"You know, I think I'd much rather have my company enjoyed right here."
>You smirk, kissing her lightly
>"So much for the city, then."
>"Oh but darling, we have all evening to see it. And besides... there are far more interesting sights to be seen where we are."
>And with that she leans in to kiss you more fully. In the time since the faire you'd definitely allowed yourself to become more intimate with Rarity, so far as to allowing your hand to wander down to her hip and pull her close to yourself
>She gasps, looking down, then up but quickly returns to locking lips with you, eager to enjoy this newfound closeness. Your hand wends its way over her hip, to just above her rump, along up her back and lost in the sweet softness of her mane. Her own hooves are as eager, if a little more adventurous in brushing against your rear, onto your hip and settling to swirl against your chest
>The lady pulls off from you, still grinning
>"You are a horrible tease, tempting a lady like this!"
>"Would you prefer I kept my hands to myself?"
>She flips herself around, cuddling back against you, your hands settling against her chest as her hooves hold them there
>"You know, I don't think I could -ever- have imagined how... sensuous they could be."
>It pains you slightly, hearing that, to know that you must still keep her waiting. She's never made an indication that she's frustrated but it can't be easy for her
>"And I promise that soon you'll see for yourself just how gentle their touch can be."
>She sighs pleasantly, scooching closer
>"Perhaps we shan't venture into the city this evening. It is a wonderful place but... I much prefer it here."
>You hum in response, leaning your head down against hers

>In time you both have to get up and, much to Rarity's delight, slip on some formal clothing for your dinner in the hotel. Yes, now decked out in your suit you feel much less out place, though not for want of the excited whispers that pass between ponies upon seeing you. Perhaps it is that they recognise the clothing that inspired the lady's latest line
>Certainly, Rarity doesn't at all mind the extra attention, preening herself and offering little utterances and thanks to whoever stops her and compliments her on her talent. It's actually rather nice to see Rarity in her natural light like this, so at home amongst the higher class ponies

>The dinner itself is... well, you still haven't gotten used to haute cuisine but it doesn't really matter, so long as -she- shares it with you. Increasingly you're finding a homeliness to these occasions. More and more it just feels right

>You both retire for the night to your respective beds. Though while you lie awake, waiting for sleep to come you hear an odd noise. It's a light shuffling followed by a few little squeaks and it's... coming from across the room
>"Rarity? Are you okay?"
>There's a slight pause before you get a response
>"Yes, yes, quite so. Don't worry."
>She sounds slightly breathless but you decide not to force the issue. She still has a heart that beats and it would be unfair to expect her to hold her desires that closely in check. She is, after all, not doing any harm. Beyond perhaps exciting you, just a little...

>Morning comes and with it Rarity is gone from the room but you expect that. Without doubt she's off, involved in the preparations for later today, ensuring the suits she's made have all been unpacked safely and that the location's lighting and other accouterments are all suitable for her wares
>You decide to take a little stroll about the city to pass the time until the evening

>You've made sure to wear a suit, so as to better meld into the crowds. Even if you do stand over them for the most part. The city is awash with theatres, cafés, art galleries and all manner of other venues of culture. You do feel Rarity's absence but there's no reason you can't peruse a few of the locations by yourself
>In fact, a walk through a museum provides a few interesting points for discussion with her at a later time. You would have to remember to bring her here when you get the chance, she would love many of the sculptures you're sure
>A small café offers the chance for something filling to eat without feeling like you're paying more for the plate than the food but as the day wears on you find the time to attend the show at the town hall approaching

>And yes, the lady is waiting for you, sporting one of her favourite creations herself before leading you inside. While this was your first time attending a fashion show you were curious to see what passed for pony fashion from other designers. Whether it would be as outlandish as some of the things you might see back on Earth
>You're seated next to her, a hand upon her shoulder reassuring. The lights dim, the music starts and now all her work will finally be put to judgment

>From the left of the stage appears a well built stallion. The catwalk lights up and he confidently strides down it. He's sporting a light creme jacket, matching waistcoat and shirt, as well as a small cravat at his neck. No trousers though, perhaps she had decided against it or they would be shown by other models
>Hushed whispers rise from around you and Rarity raises a hoof to tap against you. You take it in your hand, holding it tightly
>Next is another stallion, featuring a more casual suit with pants though they bear a much different cut than you would have expected. The rump isn't quite as tight as you'd feared and his tail flows perfectly from the small slit cut into them
>The whispers rise in volume slight, Rarity presses against you
>The show proceeds like that, moving from suits to more casual blazers and sportcoats in a range of fabrics and colours, all following your own recommendations to varying degrees. Each stallion walks down as stone-faced as the last, none showing any signs of discomfort or otherwise having difficulty in these new clothing types
>As the final model exits from the stage there's a pregnant pause. the whispers have stopped but you can feel tension in the air and then... thunderous clopping of hooves upon the floors. Congratulations are called out as the models begin their last walk as one
>The lady sags against you, letting out a breath, your grip on her hoof loosening. Yes, you'd been as nervous about this as she, but you may well not have been, given her long standing reputation

>For the next two days her creations are featured and each time they're met with delight. Even the more casual jumpers, shirts and such have stallions crowding to her after the show enquiring about where ever she got such fabulous and novel designs and would she be splitting her career evenly between mare and stallion fashion now
>You're happy to sit back and allow the lady to enjoy the limelight, that night she being called away by Hoity Toity himself as well as Spring Rains, proudly sporting his new suit

>Rarity informs you that she'll be some time talking business here, why don't you get a drink back at the bar. Which you do, eager to be away from the close stuffiness of the building
>Even here, ponies discuss the new designs on show, dissenting opinions abound but most in agreement that this could spark a new trend in male fashion
>You're seated on a barstool, sipping some whiskey when a voice comes from behind and to your side
>"Hey friend, mind if my buddy here and I join you?"
>You turn to see two earth pony stallions standing behind you, smiling. You nod and motion to the barstools next to you
>"Great."
>He proffers a hoof
>"Name's Aether and this here's Wuten."
>"Hey."
>You take his hoof shaking it. "Anon."

>"So you're the human, huh? Seen you around that fashion designer from Ponyville, uh..."
>"Rarity."
>"Oh thanks, don't gimme a second to remember."
>His friend smirks and turns to the barcolt, making his order
>"Yeah, anyway, we were curious, wanted to know if you two are, uh..."
>"He wants to know if you're treating her like a real lady."
>Wuten smirks once more, now trying to cover it by the glass
>"Yeah! Thanks! What are you, some kind of joker? Anyway... are ya?"
>He looks surprisingly eager, definitely not the kind of reaction you might have imagined
>"Don'tcha think that's kind of a personal question?"
>He chortles loudly, eying his drink before setting it back down
>"Hey, hey! I'm just tryin' to offer a little advice here. Look, if she's the kind of lady who doesn't mind you're a human then ya can't mess her around."
>Wuten turns to you, nodding
>"He's right. We've seen how she's been looking at you and it isn't a secret that she'd like to get between the sheets."

>You take another sip of the whiskey, enjoying the bitterness. They do have a point, you can't keep her waiting forever but you know you're not ready to go the whole hog
>"I appreciate the advice but... I was hoping to hold off a little longer."
>"Whoah, whoah! We're not -telling- you to do anything, just saying maybe you should throw her a bone, right?"
>Wuten smirks, tapping his friend's shoulder before whispering in his ear
>"Darn, sorry, didn't mean to uh, imply anything there."
>"Hey Aether? Think we should be going? Vinyl's gonna be pissed if you're late."
>Aether snorts, taking the last of his drink in a single draught
>"Yeah, she's got a temper but you know that's why I love 'er."
>"And you-"
>Wuten jabs at hoof in your direction
>"Remember what we said alright?"
>You nod dutifully, watching as they depart laughing and talking

>Night falls and with it you retire to your bedroom with Rarity. She's tucked herself in and lying quietly when you look over the situation. Aether and Wuten had been right, while you needn't force yourself into something you weren't ready for you could give the lady something you knew she'd enjoy. Something inspired by your little romp the first day you arrived
>Tiptoeing, you move the locker between the beds out into the middle of the floor and then to one side. The bed itself... doesn't look too heavy, being made to accommodate a little more than a grown pony's size but thankfully still leaving you enough room that you didn't need to bunch your legs up too much
>You take one side of it and give it a push. It's on legs and not casters but the floor isn't wood so it doesn't make too much noise. Still, Rarity stirs from her bed and looks back
>"Anon? W-What are you doing?"
>"Taking matters in charge."
>You grunt and give another push, another few inches secured. And again. And again, until the beds are pressed neatly together, the clothes drawn up across the other. Rarity hasn't stopped looking at you the whole time but now seeing what you meant a small smile touches her
>"You don't have to-"
>"I -want- to."
>And without another word you slip in under the covers and shuffle over to her, feeling the soft warmth of her body press against your own. She gasps as you slip your arms around her chest
>"I want to give you something, Rarity. I still can't give you what you want yet but consider this another step closer to that."

>She squeals lightly, pushing herself back against you and holding your arms tightly. Yes, it's nice. It's the first time you've felt her coat against your skin and the sensation sends shivers down your spine. Touching her with your hands had never truly done justice to the care she took of herself
>You settle with her head cupped in against you when that familiar shuffling noise starts up again, followed by a little grunt. You can feel... her legs moving, tapping back against your knees
>"Rarity?"
>It stops suddenly, you feel her body tense up. Silence follows and then a sniff
>"I... I'm sorry, darling."
>Her head lowers, the lady curling into herself
>"I... I've let you down, I know, but-"
>You lean down and kiss her mane as you've done so many times before. And as you'd hoped it stops her dead in her tracks, no sniffling, the tension easing slightly
>"I knew what you were doing before this, you know. It'd be unfair of me to deny you some bit of comfort so... you do whatever you need to, I promise I don't mind."
>Deep breaths, her body unfurls, pressed back against you
>"Are... are you sure?"
>"Well... I hope -you- don't think less of me for saying this but... I kind of enjoy the thought of it."
>Another gasp, then 'Oooh'
>"You have -such- a filthy mind! Luckily we're rather evenly matched."
>You say no more, only hug her tightly as she resumes her gentle ministrations, held in the arms of the one she loved, who loved her

>The next day greets both of you freshly, Rarity back in her usual high spirits and rearing to attend to the rest of the week. Which goes as well as you'd hoped. A few of the other designers from across the land must have gotten wind of her new line as there were more than a few trying to copy her style, with varying levels of success
>And each night you would find yourself in that bed with her, holding her. By the last night, however, she seemed returned to her pensiveness. Turns out she thinks this is just something you're doing while you're away together here and she's not keen on returning to the status quo on going back to Ponyville
>You don't need to consider your response before you tell her it doesn't have to end. There's nothing saying she can't spend a night at your place or you at hers if either of you should desire it. You've been enjoying this as much as her and you, too, would like to see to it continuing
>So it is with this renewed vigor to your relationship that you step on to the train to your home, a little reluctant to leave the sophistication and familiarity of the city but glad nonetheless to be returning to the quiet town, to ponies who knew you and the comfort of routine

>For the next couple of days back in Ponyville life returns to its previous cheer. The first night back Rarity invites you to her home after an evening at the lake, something you're more than happy to oblige with
>Twilight, looking a little disappointed at the time, enquires as to your week away and... have you patched things up with Rainbow Dash yet?
>Well no, you explain what she did at your house but Twi doesn't react too strongly. She might have expected that kind of behavior, even if she didn't like admitting it. She still held out hope that Dash would see sense but you knew that if such a thing was even possible any more it would still be some time

>You're seated at your table, eating breakfast one morning when a familiar knock comes from the door. With the beating of wings you assume its Derpy, so often does she remain in flight when on a busy route
>Opening it-
>A blur throws you onto your back, something pressed to your mouth. It's a cloth, bearing a horrific chemical smell. Winded from the fall, you breath in before realising what you're doing
>The last thing you see before unconsciousness claims you is a blue face smirking down at you...

>Wake.
>You're awake. You think you are. It's hard to think through the haze of confusion and the pain that's lancing through your skull. You try to open your eyes and are greeted by harsh, glaring light. You shut them immediately, groaning softly
>"Oh! You're awake!"
>Who is that? The fog is slowly starting to lift from your mind but the pain is slower to subside. You're sure you know the voice but... you just can't place it. It's a little raspy... definitely female...
>"Great! This is so awesome! I was afraid I used too much but at least it let me get ya back here okay."
>Christ, you wish she'd shut up for a second, just let this pain clear and then you can try to say something. Maybe if you just rub your head you- wait, why can't you move your arms? You still feel weak but you can't even lift your hand
>"Huh? Oh don't worry, I tied ya up 'cause I know ya like it kinda rough, right?"
>Hang on... she tied you up? Why would she do that? You try to speak, to ask what's going on but all that comes out is a croak
>"Hey, try to relax, okay? I... think it'll take a while for that stuff to wear off."
>Maybe... maybe you can. Maybe if you just rest for a bit you can get your strength back. The pain wears as you allow sleep to claim you...

>You come to once more, this time feeling much better. You're sure you can move your- wait, why can't you move?
>Your eyes snap open to see soft light coming in a window above and to your left. You swing your head to the side - your hand is tied up to... it looks like the side of a bed. Just what the hell is going on!
>"Hey..."
>Your throat still feels strained but you can speak, you think
>"Hey... anyone there?"
>Movement, the sound of soft clopping and- a blue face looking down at you smiling
>"Welcome back, dude!"

>This... this almost looks like...
>"Rain... bow?"
>The head nods quickly
>"Glad to see your memory is still okay! So... whaddaya think? Neat huh?"
>"What... what's happening?"
>She giggles, it unsettles you. Why is she giggling with you tied up? Why isn't she helping you?
>"Aww, c'mon dude, isn't it obvious? I finally figured it out!"
>You shake your head blearily, things are starting to come back to you. You were knocked out... now you're here. Someone abducted you? Maybe AJ?
>"Rain... Rainbow you've... gotta untie me..."
>The face frowns heavily, looking you over
>"But... why would I want to do that? Oh! You're just getting into it! Cool!"
>She giggles again, this is starting to become too much. Why isn't she helping you!
>"Dash... please let me out..."
>"Mmmm..."
>You feel something press against your chest - your bare chest, you realise. That would explain the cool air against your skin you've been feeling
>"Nope! Don't worry, I'm gonna play along all the way!"
>She waggles her eyebrows, you feel your chest tighten and your breathing speed up
>"Dash, this isn't funny, cut me loose."
>You feel a weight settle over your lower body. No, it's okay, you can't feel whatever it is against your bare skin this time
>"Aw yeah, keep it up! You're really gettin' me goin' Anon!"
>You feel her hooves press against your sides. You try to move your arms again but still nothing. You kick your legs out - or try to, they're obviously tied down too. But you can feel straps binding just above your knees, you can't even move your upper legs to push her!
>"Dash! Dash! C'mon, what are you doing?"
>"Whadda ya think? Giving you what you've wanted from me all along!"

>You feel... something bumping against your pelvis. Rainbow's head is still above you, her eyes are closed and she's whispering something
>She stops suddenly, looking back
>"Shoot! Hang on, dude, I gotta check this."
>The weight lifts from you and there's clopping away from the bed. The clopping retreats... sounds like upwards until you hear it above your head. It stops, there's a creak, a pause and the clopping starts back
>It's coming closer now, back down
>Her face is over yours again now, the smile gone, she looks worried
>"Hey... uh, listen I gotta cut this short today. I think somep0ny's watchin' me but I'll be back! We'll start again tomorrow 'kay?"
>"Dash, no! Wait!"
>The clopping recedes once more. No more voice, no face, just you. You struggle against the bindings but they won't give. You stop, trying to think of something, anything
>You start calling out, roaring for help but your voice falls hoarse without a sound from above and the light waning
>Jesus, what the hell is going on. You were knocked out, you're tied up now, Rainbow is apparently gone insane and... oh no. No, she didn't. She -couldn't-. You struggle against your bindings anew but it's useless, they're tied tight. You begin to sob, the full reality of your situation finally sinking in. She'd get what she wanted and you couldn't do a damn thing about it. She's won.

>Sometime thereafter you'd worn yourself out and fallen asleep. The light streaming through the window wakes you and for a few moments you think how nice it is to wake up to such a beautiful day. Trying to move brings you back to where you are and what's happening
>You feel a little better, rested, so you pull against your bindings. You throw every ounce of strength you have into the effort but... nothing. Your breathing ramps up. You -have- to find some way out, you can't just let it end like this. Your mind rebels, screaming at you that there -is- no way out. Short of Dash spontaneously coming to her senses and letting you go, you're fucked. Literally

>Clopping from above. It moves over the ceiling then... yes, it's coming over
>"Hello? Hey, help me! I'm tied up!"
>"Morning, Anon!"
>Oh no. It's her. You don't want it to be her, you want to wake up. Wake up and just let this all be some nightmare
>She sighs, settling over you, or so you're sure from the familiar weight
>"So... how're ya feeling today?"
>"Fuck sake, Dash, let me go!"
>"Aww but I can't. Not until we've had some fun!"
>That giggle. Only now do you see how constricted her pupils are. You throw your head forward, missing her by inches
>"Whoah, dude! I didn't know ya liked it -that- rough!"
>A hoof presses against your pants and... just like that they're pulled down. She must have undone them before. The hoof starts rubbing against your genitals, with no effect
>"Aww, c'mon, Anon, ya can't have stage fright on me."
>"Fuck you!"
>"That's the spirit!"

>The hoof starts rubbing harder, still eliciting little response. She grunts, face contorting into frustration before she grins wildly again
>"Pfft, whatever, guess I'll just move on to the main event!"
>You feel the weight resettle and something... something wet and warm presses against your member. It's almost... like...
>"Mmm, now we're havin' fun, right?"
>She giggles again, kissing at your neck. The sensation makes your stomach rise into your throat
>"Hmm, dude, you've no idea how much I've -wanted- this! Augh, it just... just feels so -good- ya know?"
>The hooves reach down and start rubbing at your sides, Dash increases her rubbing, bumping against you now and again
>"Heh, what am I saying, of course ya do! You've just been... testing me, right? Like with AJ and Flutters and..."
>She stops, eyes narrowing sharply
>"Rarity!"
>The name is growled out before she resumes her previous cheer and molestation
>"But they all got it wrong, right? I-I'm the -only- one who did it properly! And now you're gonna reward me right?"
>You don't say anything. You can't. There is no response you could even think of giving to this level of psychosis. She's lost it, she's gone
>"Right?!"
>She mashes her pelvis against yours
>"C'mon darnit!"
>This continues for some moments, Dash's face twisting into a snarl before it snaps to a blank expression
>"Oh! You... you must be hungry, right? Of course! How could I forget, I didn't even feed you and now... now you're too tired!"
>Smiling once more she hops off, clopping away
>"Just keep thinkin' of me and I'll be back in like, ten seconds okay?"
>She's gone before you can think of anything to say that might aid you. Fuck this. Fucking Dash

>You lie there... you don't know how long. It can't be too long, the lights position streaming in the window barely shifts before you hear something again
>"... a surprise? Oooh, you know I -love- surprises!"
>That voice... it sounds so familiar
>Clopping, two sets, one comes down
>"Hey Anon! I brought some snacks! Oh, and I brought a friend too! I think you'll like her, she's really, -really- fun!"
>Movement
>"C'mon down, Pinks! It's all ready!"
>Clopping from above, coming down the stairs... it slows
>"Dashie... w-what's going on? Why is Anon tied up?"
>"I know, it's so cool, right? I can't believe how easy it was too!"
>"What are you talking about? W-What are you doing?"
>Clopping, you feel a hoof stroking your member
>"Isn't it obvious? This was the only way I could prove to Anon I could be the kind of rapist he likes."
>"B-But Dashie... that's wrong!"
>The rubbing stops, clopping

>"Huh? Whadda ya mean?"
>"You can't just do that to him! That... that's mean!"
>"Aww, c'mon Pinks, what about AJ and Fluttershy, huh? How-How come you never did said anything to -them-?!"
>Clopping, it's coming over your other side
>"Because!"
>A pause, more hooves following after the other set
>"Yeah?"
>"C'mon, Dashie, isn't it obvious? AJ always left a way for him to escape, you know she's too fair not to a-and Fluttershy would never, ever force herself on anyp0ny."
>Growling, it sounds like Dash
>"Yeah? And that's why they FAILED! That's why I failed but NOT again! Okay? I got it right this time and I'm gonna take what's mine! Now you can either have fun -with- me or you can just... just take a hike!"
>Nothing, no sound but heavy breathing. Then you feel something at the binding of your hand, it's a set of hooves! They're trying to free you!
>"Hey... hey stop! Cut it out, Pinks!"

>"Hey... Hey Pinkie, get me out of this!"
>"Hang on, I just-"
>CRACK
>"Look what you made me do!"
>Clopping, the sound of something heavy sliding on the ground
>"You could've just taken a hike but -noooo-, you had to try and spoil our fun!"
>"Christ, Dash, what did you do!"
>"Hey, don't worry, Anon, she's not going to ruin our good times - are you Pinkie?"
>The sound of soft groaning
>"Daaaashie... ?"
>"Shut up! Just shut up! You... stay there and watch! I'll show you how to do it!"
>Clopping faster than before, something heavy lands on you. Dash is looking down at you, smiling once more but breathing heavily
>"Dash, what did you do to her?"
>"Nothin'! Like I said, I'm just makin' sure she can sit and watch us. Cause... you're gonna help me show her right?"
>The hoof is back down at your waist, furiously rubbing your genitals. You fight it, your body giving in and rebelling against you
>"Ha! Hey, now you're doin' it!"
>Dash moves, you feel that heat once more pressed against you. She starts grinding herself, slowly getting you up to half mast
>"Alright! Okay! Now we're getting somewhere!"
>You can't keep fighting but you're body just wants to relent. You can only keep yourself from going any further, Dash moistening by the second
>"C'mon... c'mon... just a little more..."
>She begins to whine, forelegs digging in to the bed at your arms
>"C'mon! WHY? WHY ISN'T THIS WORKING!"
>She sobs suddenly
>"WHY... Why... why won't you do this! Why... I just want this -one- thing..."
>Her grinding slows as her sobbing increases
>"Please... please Anon, just gimme this... please..."

>"Dash... please just-"
>"NO!"
>She lifts her head, cheeks damp and eyes reddening
>"NO! It's okay, I... I know what to do! Z-Zecora, right? I bet she... she has stuff that can do the job."
>"Oh Jesus, Dash, listen to yourself!"
>"I am! Okay? I am! You... you're still testing me! I knot it! That -has- to be it! Well d-don't worry, I can go -all- the way for -you-!"
>"No, Dash, wait!"
>She's off you and clopping away
>"Dash! PLEASE! DON'T DO THIS!"
>Your pleas fall on deaf ears as she trots off, up the stairs

>Time passes, you hate this silence-
>There's a groan. Of course... Pinkie!
>"Pinkie? Pinkie, can you hear me?"
>"Daaaashie... ?"
>"No, Pinkie, it's me, Anon!"
>"A-Anooon... ?"
>"Aww, fuck sake... Pinkie! C'mon, don't give up on me!"
>Movement, unsteady clopping, there's a pink face looking down at you
>"Anon? Y-You're tied up... Dashie!"
>She looks about quickly, fast clopping away from you then back
>"O-Okay, she's gone, I-I'm gonna get you out."
>Her hooves start fumbling at the bindings, unable to grip. She leans down, using her teeth but still has no effect. They're evidently too tight
>You hear sobbing
>"I'm sorry..."
>"Pinkie, stay with me! Okay, look... just... go and get help. Can you do that?"
>The sobbing slows
>"U-Uh-huh. I-I'll get Twilight and Rarity and... and they'll help!"
>Clopping away from you, it stops
>"Just hang on, I'll be back. Pinkie promise!"
>The clopping recedes up the stairs and is gone. You pray silently that she gets back before Dash...

>You hold your composure as best you can, this thin sliver of hope bracing you against the monstrosity Dash has planned for herself
>You pace your breathing, you have to stay calm, help -is- on the way. You call out again, hoping someone will hear you but it's no good. Either you're too far down or too far outside the town to be heard
>In either case it doesn't matter because Pinkie's quick on her hooves and she's sure to get back before-

>"Anon! Anon! I got it! I got it!"
>Furious clopping overhead, then down the stairs. The voice, it could be either one but... why is there only one set of hooves?
>A... blue head appears over you, smiling while some strange, orange coloured plant is clutched in her mouth
>"She didn't want to give it to me but I just had to take it! I told ya I'd do anything for you!"
>She clops away, there's the sound of something being moved
>"Hey, lucky I have some water here, huh? I just need to grind this stuff into it and she said it'll do the trick."
>You can hear it, the sound of a rock grinding against stone. With each passing minute you feel your heart thump faster, until blood is thundering in your ears

>Sounds of water splashing, clopping, Dash appears over you with some sort of bowl in her mouth. She sets it down at your side and hops onto you
>"Okay, dude, I don't know how long this is going to take so just bear with me, okay?"
>She takes the bowl in her hooves and lifts it to your mouth, pressing it there with one while she holds your head up with the other. You keep your mouth shut but... she knees you in the balls...
>You can't stop yourself from yelping in pain, as it lances up through your pelvis. The liquid spills into your mouth and you choke, trying to breath against it but forced to swallow some
>"Awesome! See? Oh and sorry about that, I guess you don't like it -too- rough huh?"
>She giggles, settling herself down against you
>"Alright, I'm just gonna enjoy myself for a bit 'kay?"
>You feel the grinding start up again and your mind starts to haze, the liquid spreading down into your stomach warming you with the warmth falling lower and lower until it's down at your member. It twitches, Dash stops
>"Whoah! Awesome! I didn't think it'd work -that- fast!"

>Dash starts to bump and grind against you, whining and lapping at your neck and chest
>"C'mon... c'mon.., augh, I'm so close... !"
>Your body won't listen to your mind as your member keeps hardening but... goddamn it hurts! The heat that's been spreading is only worsening the pain in your testicles from the blow
>It's doing a little to halt your body's response but Dash keeps it up
>"C'mon, c'mon, c'mon, C'MON!"
>She starts grinding harder, enough so that the sensation itself has become painful
>"Dash... you're hurting..."
>"Aww, what? Can't take a little -pain-? Geeze, I thought you -wanted- this!"
>"I... don't!"
>"Yeah, yeah, just keep sayin' that."
>She keeps at it, the feeling of her wet marehood now only serving to disgust you. Your body finally falls back under your control, your mind still hazy but the painful sensations enough to break through it
>"What? No, NO, NO! C'MON!"
>She sits back, pushing down against you

>"C'MON! BUCK SAKE, WHAT'S WRONG, I DID EVERYTHING RIGHT!"
>Her hooves are pressed hard against your chest before they slide down, onto your thighs
>"STOP DOIN' THIS! STOP IT! STOP IT! JUST STOP RESISTING!"
>She falls forward, hooves splayed out, panting
>"C'mon man... three years... three buckin' years and you won't even gimme this..."
>She begins sobbing once more
>"What... what did I do wrong? Am... Am I just not hot enough? Don't ya like me?"
>She grunts, thighs pressing tightly against you
>"No... NO! No I can do this! I just... just..."
>She wails suddenly, throwing herself upon you
>"Why! Please, Celestia, why! Why are you doin' this to me? I waited... I waited... I was good to you..."
>Her body is shaking with little sobs now
>"Why Rarity... why her... why not me... I... I did this for you... but you..."
>Dash trails off, you can feel her hot tears against you

>"What... what did she... d-do..."
>"She never did this, Dash."
>She whimpers, giving a few last grinds before stopping
>"B-But... she... you hated..."
>"No, I didn't hate her. I hated what she did."
>Dash's breathing has slowed but she still sobs
>"You can still stop this. You don't have to-"
>"NO!"
>She sits upright once more
>"NO! You, you're STILL testing me! It has to be! It can't be anything else!"
>She jumps up, turning over you before plopping herself back down. She scooches back, pressing her rump to your face
>"Okay... okay, I can do this..."
>Something warm and wet envelopes your member. You know what she's doing, you hate it. You hate her
>"Nngh... c'mon dude... just... just take it..."
>She bobs again and again, tongue dancing around your member but it's for naught. You can only feel disgust at what she's become
>"Augh! FINE! I-If I can't get -you- off then at least you can get -me- off!"
>She sits back up... on your face, pressing her marehood against what she feels to be your lips and starts gyrating about
>You try to shout, try to scream but your cries are muffled. You sorely wish your arms were free so you could jam a fist into her side
>"Hnnnn... c'mon... just... USE YOUR TONGUE FOR CELESTIA'S SAKE!"
>She pushes down harder, you wince at how your head is pressed back painfully like this
>"Do it! C'mon! DO IT!"

>She continues to press down, your eyes are shut tight, your mind cast off from what's going on
>"JUST BUCKING-"
>She stops very suddenly. Stops moving, stops talking, stops making any sound
>And then... clopping from above. Furious clopping. Voices. They're coming down the stairs
>"No! NO! NO! NO! THIS WAS MY TIME! I GOT IT RIGHT!"
>"Anon? Anon! What has she-"
>Relief washes over you in waves as you hear Rarity's voice call out to you
>"BUCK OFF YOU DONKEY! HE'S MINE!"
>Dash is screeching, leaping off you and gone in a heartbeat
>You can hear something... the soft thrum of a magical field
>"Rainbow Dash! How could you do this?"
>That's Twilight's voice, oh god, Pinkie actually got them
>"I simply can -not- believe you've turned to this! So help me, if I get a moment alone with you I'll-"
>"SHUT UP! JUST SHUT UP YOU BUCKING WHORE! THIS IS ALL YOUR FAULT! HE WAS MINE!"
>"What did you call me?! Twilight let her go, I want to take care of this personally!"
>"Rarity, no! We have to get her help!"
>"The only 'help' she needs is help in having her wings rotated! And I would be -quite- happy to assist with that!"
>"YOU BUCKIN' TOUCH ME AND I'LL- MMFF!"
>"There... now, Pinkie, go get some guards, we'll need them to take care of her. Rarity you can just... help Anon out."
>"But... Oh. Oh! Oh, yes, Anon, I'm so sorry!"
>And there she is, the lady's face appears over you. You almost feel like weeping at the sight
>"Rarity, I-"
>"Hush now, I'll have you free in a moment."

>You feel pressure at your hands and legs. With a soft thrum and the glow of her horn the bindings are undone and you're up, arms around her neck
>"Thank you! Thank you..."
>"Hush now, it's quite alright. We're here, nothing more is going to happen to you."
>And you just... let go. All that's just happened to you catches up and you weep into her mane, Rarity sitting herself and extending her forelegs around you. She doesn't say a word, just holds you
>Sniffing, you pull back from her, to see her smiling at you
>"I know it's hard but we'll get you through this, alright? I'm here, I'm right here and you don't have to be afraid. She's not going to be able to get to you any more."
>You nod, still sniffling and turn to see Dash pinned against the wall, a purple magical field surrounding her. It's... hard to believe that that pegasus had you right in her grasp. Hard to believe the madness that she'd cultivated
>She sees you looking at her and puts on a pleading look, eyes darting between you and Twilight. You turn your gaze away, unable to even look at her any more

>You're lead out of that basement, out through a rickety shack and see that you've been outside Ponyville the whole time. Safety just tantalisingly out of reach
>Rarity walks you back to her home and from there up into her bed. She tells you she's going to make some of your tea and to just wait there, don't worry, you're safe
>You lie down against the sheets and pillows, still struggling to come to terms with what was done to you. It would take time, you knew that, but knowing Dash was finally out of your life would be a great help in getting through this

>These days are better for you. It's been weeks since... that episode with Rainbow Dash. You've heard she's been committed to Ponyville General. You still hate her for what you did but you also hope she finds the help she needs. She did this to herself, she's the only one who can fix herself of it
>Better still is a certain item arriving in the post. A letter of confirmation, one that had been ridiculously expensive to secure and had taken almost your entire savings. But it had been worth it. It was worth it because you'd made this promise to Rarity
>Rarity. The lady had been by your side near every day since what happened. Every moment she could spare would be spent talking or not talking. Just being with her, crying, screaming, more crying... she never said a word unless needed, never became frustrated or gave up. You came to understand that this must have been what it was like for her and you couldn't have asked for anyone better to understand what you'd gone through

>But that was in the past. You hadn't let your experience taint your newfound intimacy with Rarity. As with spending time with her, you'd also spent near every night with her too, most often in her own home. And through it all she never forced you, never pushed you, never gave any indication that she might be tired of waiting
>You were two broken souls, seeking comfort in one another

>And now, as you stride towards the Carousel Boutique, you clutch in your hand that most important of letters. It's a struggle to keep yourself from running, just from imagining the look on her face
>"Good mo~rning! And welcome to the- darling! Oh it's simply marvelous to see you!"
>The lady rushes up to you, hugging you and kissing you lightly. Ah yes, she's still making your tea
>"And a good morning to you. Well, it would be if I hadn't received this."
>You hold up the letter and Rarity levitates it over to herself

>Rarity begins scanning over it, you notice her eyes growing wider and wider. Then she stops and starts reading it slower
>"Remember, when we started out, I said to you if you kept going as you did, one day we would be dining in the Sommeil de Soleil in Canterlot?"
>The letter lowers and she's looking back at you, eyes filled with stars
>"I think we've long passed that point and I'm only sorry we-"
>You're knocked to the ground as your world turns white
>"Oh darling this is... I can't even say, it's just so incredible!"
>She peppers kisses across you and you struggle to return more than a few of them
>"You deserve it, Rarity. This and more. Now come on! We've got to get ourselves ready for it."
>"Oh my... yes! I have to go get a makeover, pick out a suitable outfit, I have to make -you- something new; can't be seen traipsing about in the same old clothes..."
>She's up and off you, walking into her work room, rummaging through clothes racks. You chuckle to yourself, relishing in how charming her flustered state is


>With the weekend you take the train to Canterlot, Rarity giddy the whole way. You can't blame her, after hearing you'd also be staying in La Nuit Impériale - one of Canterlot's better hotels - she'd been practically beside herself
>The trip itself is enjoyable, with you and her sharing a compartment by yourselves. Little was said, as little was needed. The smile never left her face the whole way
>Arriving, the city has a different feel to Manehatten - less fast-paced but still retaining the sense of just being... bigger. You're more familiar with it, visiting the Princess Celestia over the years as she checked on your integration in Pony society
>And the hotel, too, retains a more refined, sophisticated feel than that of the Sky High in Manehatten. You prefer it, it suits Rarity far more
>The room... ah yes, she's -very- pleased to set her eyes upon the double bed, knowing the kind of message that sends. Just as before you spend some time getting reacquainted with her upon it, before heading out to sample a little of the night life

>Indeed, the night was wonderful. Rarity might not claim to have any great love of nightclubs or the sort but finding the right one, she'd settled in well enough. Certainly a few drinks had loosened her up to even dancing... though you'd never shatter her illusions by telling her what you thought of it to her face. Plus, it had been enjoyable watching her have such fun
>Retiring to the bed... You'd spent the night in each other's embrace like so many times before. The delicate scent of her body tantalising you more than it had previously
>And then the day after, you'd gone about the city visiting art galleries aplenty. Much of the history of the movements might have been lost on you but it was nice, all the same, to have Rarity lecture you on the progression in styles and adding her own little titbits about various artists

>But evening sets in eventually and with that you prepared yourselves to dine in the Sommeil de Soleil, Rarity once more chattering about what you could expect. Rubbing shoulders, figuratively in your case, with ponies of high class, exquisite interior architecture, the great ballroom, food that made the stuff of other restaurants look like swill... Oh yes, she would be in her element
>You have to admit, walking her along with both of you dressed so well does feel good. In fact, you'd never have imagined that you could feel so joyful, in the company of a lady
>Outside the restaurant you can already hear the soft tones of the music within. As with so many of the odd similarities in this world it sounded almost like a waltz, though you couldn't be entirely sure
>Inside... she had been right. Warm colour tones and high ceilings, every inch bespoke class and grace. And then there were the ponies, outfitted in such beautiful clothing and talking, laughing, being all that the upper class are: lords and ladies of leisure

>Lead off to your table, Rarity has stars in her eyes, gazing about all around her. And, yes, many eyes fall upon the two of you. It's still easy to forget what an odd sight you can be but you find yourself caring so little these days - with her, you're too happy to
>For a few moments, she sits there, catching her breath as she still looks about. You can't help but to smile, surely this must be everything she had dreamed and, if you were lucky, you would cap off tonight with something you hoped would truly show her how far you had come
>"Isn't this just... just magnificent?"
>But you don't say anything, just enjoying her look of utter contentment. Looking about again you see this truly is where she belongs: every p0ny a picture of refined class, a far cry from the boorishness Rarity might bemoan being surrounded by back in Ponyville. But not a mare you lay eyes upon can dare to hold a candle to her beauty, her grace or her endearing charm
>"Will we order?"
>"Oh yes, hmm, it all looks so delicious! I don't think I know quite what I shall sample."
>But she quickly enough settles upon a dish of... you're not exactly sure what it is, given the name and description but you order the same, trusting in her judgement
>So you settle in to the meal, proving more flavoursome than you'd come to expect from such high class. That or perhaps, just perhaps, your palate was becoming more refined

>Conversation is mostly absent this evening, you presume Rarity is too busy absorbing the ambience. Good food, good music, good company... yes, you could well get used to this yourself
>With the meal done the band strikes up a rather lively tune and many of the couples present proceed onto the ballroom floor to dance
>And... you can't help but notice Rarity look on with barely concealed pensiveness. You watch the dancers for a few moments, hoping to discern the problem... Ah! Of course. They, one and all, dance with necks intertwined, staying on all four legs
>One of the few cases where your differences in leg numbers would prove a problem. Or it might have
>There is one idea that comes to your mind

>"Rarity, would you like to dance?"
>She continues looking out upon the floor for a moment before turning to you, a forced smill on her face
>"No... no it's quite alright, darling, I understand we can't."
>No, this won't do
>"There's nothing saying we -can't-. Come on."
>You stand and, placing a hand on her shoulder, gently lead her out to the floor
>"W-What are you doing? We can't dance together!"
>"Only if you think so! Look, I just want to try something. You trust me don't you?"
>You hate yourself for saying that but it's probably the only way you're going to get her to go along. Yes, she winces but nods, following
>You take her out into the centre, through the couples and into an island of calm
>"Alright... rear back and put your forelegs on my shoulders."
>"What?! B-But we'll look ridiculous!"
>"Rarity, please, I'm not going to make a show of you."
>With a heavy sigh, she does as you've asked, glancing about to check for any looks you might be getting
>"Alright, now... put one of your hooves over my shoulder... yes, like that."
>You reach up and cup the other hoof in your hand, holding it out
>"W-What..."
>"Ah-ah! Just follow my lead."


>You slip your other hand down onto her waist, eliciting a small gasp
>"Th-This seems rather intimate!"
>You lean in and softly whisper to her, "That's sort of the point of it."
>You're glad the music's timing is right when you take the first step, Rarity looking down momentarily before attempting to mimic. You take another and another, following the pattern of a simple waltz. She fumbles numerous times, quickly glancing about her, her features growing more and more concerned
>"Rarity! Look at me. Don't look at anyone else, just look at me."
>She snaps back, biting her bottom lip
>"Just pretend it's the two of us, back at your home, alright?"
>She nods, gulping but keeping her gaze fixed on you
>The music keeps at its steady timing, and Rarity starts to follow your lead with fewer and fewer missteps
>"Ha! This... I'm enjoying this! I'm really enjoying it!"
>"See?"
>You pull her a little tighter
>"Now, don't be afraid to improvise. I don't know anything more than these few steps, I'm afraid."
>"Oh, I shall!"
>You continue leading her through the three steps, but she quickly starts to add her own little flourishes, spinning, pushing out from you, changing direction... this is what she was born for
>Only now it's you who's missing a few steps
>"Chin up! We can't all have such faultless grace."
>She could be just a little humble about this...

>You take a breath to steady yourself and concentrate on your movements; it's made all the more difficult by how Rarity beams at you, now truly uncaring, you're sure, about what onlookers there may be
>The music swells and dips, continuing in its gentle melody before swelling up into a crescendo
>Rarity, now living only for it, leads you on, her movements becoming quicker with the music
>Her cheeks are flushed and a few hairs are out of place but... she's -still- smiling at you. And you her, you realise. To be able to give her this does indeed bring you a great deal of satisfaction
>And then it ends, Rarity continuing to hold you for a moment longer, panting, before going down on to all fours
>"That was..."
>"Fabulous? Oh my, yes!"
>She takes the time to look about her, seeing more than a few eyes upon you two. She doesn't look like she cares, though, as she haughtily strides back to your table
>"Promise me we'll do that again."
>"Naturally..."
>You're a little wary of being shown up by a quadruped at one of your people's own dances, that said...

>Rarity looks... you've been thinking it a lot tonight but she just looks so very content. Dinner, dancing... yes, this no doubt is exactly the type of evening she had dreamed of being treated to
>You stay on for some time, enjoying some tea while Rarity takes a strong cup of coffee, almost spluttering some of it as she gestures you towards the dance floor: a number of pony couples have begun trying to emulate your dance with mixed degrees of success. Maybe she'll feel just a little less self-conscious
>But, alas, even this must come to an end and the two of you walk slowly back to the hotel, gaily talking over whether this may set a new trend among Canterlot society. Your arm slips wide over her shoulder, holding her as tight as you can, pausing once at a quiet spot between the restaurant and hotel to kiss her, thanking her for such an evening. Thanking her for staying with you all this time and for being so patient, so kind and good to you
>She blushes, shyly thanking you in turn for ever taking the chance on her, after all that had happened. So you tell her you'd always had a soft spot for her, even through all her failed attempts at seducing you. She had been respectful, in her own way
>Not another word is said as you continue on back to the hotel, lost in each other

>Something is different tonight. You can feel it. Washing up before getting into bed you look over yourself in the large mirror of the bathroom. You look... content. As content as she does, now. Perhaps it is that you can move on a little further
>So it's with that, that you slip in under the covers and embrace her, as so often before you have

>She snuggles back against you, gasping at the new sensation
>"You... you're not wearing anything!"
>"No."
>She turns to face you, her face plain but her eyes showing her unbidden desire
>"Does that mean... ?"
>"We won't go 'all the way', not tonight but I do want to give you something more than I have before."
>Rarity shudders as you slide your hand up against her stomach first. Then slowly lowering it, over her lower abdomen, delighting in the subtle curve, past the two soft globes between her thighs and...
>She gasps, louder than before
>"W-What are you-"
>"Shhh, would you like me to continue?"
>"Yes! I-I mean... I don't want to force you but..."
>You lean forward, kissing her softly, sweetly
>"And you're not. I -want- to do this, for you. For all you've done for me."
>She lets out a shaky breath, slowly extending her forelegs over you, drawing you closer to her as you kiss her once more, holding it this time as you begin to please her, as a lady should be pleased...
Chapter 6

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This part is explicit so I suggest you turn back now, unless that's your kind of thing...
That said, if you do wish to skip over this part you won't be missing anything integral to the plot.
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>Some months later...
>There's a snap to the cool air, as you walk down Trotskaya Street. No, strike that, this is -far- too chilly!
>"Remind me again why we're here."
>Rarity turns to you, a devilish grin playing across her lips
>"Don't you remember, darling? The Duke of Manehatten insisted we visit Stalliongrad at this time of year. It -was- awfully kind of him to pull a few strings with his good friends here."
>You shiver, pulling your greatcoat tighter to yourself. Your beloved had insisted on making you one to better fit in with the emerging fashion trends in this part of Equestria. Sensing this isn't enough you pull her closer
>"Ah! Must you be so rough?"
>"I don't recall you complaining about that last night..."
>She blushes furiously, turning away from you
>"Honestly, you are nothing -short- of incorrigible!"
>You lean down to kiss her mane softly, those same scents of blueberry and vanilla still sending a thrum of excitement through you
>"But isn't that why you love me?"
>She grunts, bumping against you
>"You can be so unfair sometimes."
>You rush to think of some suitably witty quip when Rarity taps your side
>"Oh darling, we -must- sample the delightful coffees they have here!"
>She's off before you can stop her, trotting down towards a small street vendor

>This is what it's all about, you reflect as you follow her. The simple pleasures of spending time with her
>Reaching her, a paper cup is levitated into your eager hands. Ah! Something hot besides her, at last. You're sure she tips the merchant far too many bits but the way she smiles so cutely at his reaction makes you realise that, of course, is just her way
>You place your hand back over her as you continue strolling down the street
>"It's truly a shame we can't stay longer, isn't it?"
>You shudder, the thoughts of wintering out these icy climes...
>"But then we wouldn't be able to enjoy winter at our own home. I've been looking forward to -that-."
>"Mmm."
>She bumps against you once more, still sipping from her cup
>"What's say we call it a day, I know you'd much prefer to be somewhere warm."
>Your mind races with the thoughts of what, exactly, she means with that. No matter what it is, you love the sound of it

>How could it be so cold even in the bedroom! It'd be nice if you could raise the heat just a little but you'd already gotten dirty looks from the cleaning staff enough after the last time you did it
>Ah but then you do have something -far- better than that...
>"Darling, aren't you coming to bed? You must be dreadfully cold."
>You are but you still need to clean yourself full for this. There's not a hope she'd permit anything less
>You walk out of the bathroom to see... ah, she's wearing that lavender chemise again. Yes, after the first time you'd caught her admiring herself in front of her bedroom mirror wearing a crimson and black corset you'd told her that, quite to the contrary, you'd found it very appealing

>She high-tails under the covers seeing you, giggling softly
>"Oh I know you hate this cold but... mmm, I'm sure we can concoct a few ways to keep ourselves warm..."
>And you most definitely do, though you're also sure she doesn't expect what you have in mind
>You waste no time yourself in getting under the covers, immediately shuffling up against her, holding her tight to yourself, running your hands gently over her stomach and chest
>"Ahhh, you do so know -exactly- how I like to be touched."
>You continue this way, a little grin forcing its way onto your lips
>Rarity gasps suddenly but when she speaks it's slow, and quiet
>"I'm glad to see I can still excite you."
>You stop rubbing her, holding your hands at her chest
>"Were you afraid you no longer did?"
>There's a little pause, she shifts her legs a little
>"Maybe."

>You can feel her rubbing her thighs together softly. You know what she needs to be told
>"Rarity, do you remember, a long way back, when I asked you to be patient with me?"
>She stops, again speaking so softly
>"Yeees?"
>"I think... I think I've made you wait long enough."
>A pause again, then a gasp followed by a soft titter but when she speaks... she sounds nervous
>"A-Are you sure? We can always wait-"
>"Rarity, please. We've been together so long now, if I'm not comfortable at this stage you should just leave me."
>"I... I would never do that."
>"I know. And that's why I want to give you what you want."
>There's a shuddering breath, you kiss her shoulder
>"I've just had so, -so- many dreams of this."
>"And this evening, I'll be sure to make every one of them come true."

>The warm moistness between her legs is not something you've been a stranger to, in the intervening months after that first night in Canterlot but this -is- the first time she's touched you more intimately with it
>She shudders once more, pushing back against you, not taking you in just yet. You're glad, you want to draw this out as much as her
>"I-It feels so... different."
>"Bad?"
>"No! That... I don't know what it is, it's like a... lip?"
>"The... bottom of the glans."
>"It feels so- AH!"
>You slide forward, shivering at the sensations that course through you
>"L-Like that?"
>A squeak is your response
>"No! Wait!"
>She slides herself off, robbing you of those wonderful feelings before- oh. She wants to face you...
>"You know I'm... one for intimacy."
>You feel her press down against you once more, both of you sighing at this sense of completeness
>"Why did I wait so long..."
>"It doesn't matter... It doesn't matter..."
>She whispers that, kissing along your neck as you kiss at her face, both of your lips meeting suddenly as she lifts her head. She pulls back, only to push forward, your member slipping but an inch into her
>"Mmmf!"
>You both halt, shaking against each other. Why -did- you wait so long!

>Rarity rocks against you gently, little shuddering breaths escaping her lips. Your hands wildly roam across her back and buttocks, every care forgotten now. They slide under the silk shift, and you delight in this new sensation
>Her hooves grip your elbows, pulling at them. She tries to draw herself down upon you but you pull back, teasing herself and yourself further
>"Annngh... oh don't do this..."
>She pulls forward again, you push slightly against her, her marehood sliding down you. Her hooves slip down from your elbows to your sides, holding weakly
>A wicked idea comes to the fore of your mind. Something you'd held a fantasy of yourself for a little while now
>You gently separate from her, drawing a soft whine before you cast off the sheets. If you're to do this you won't need them
>"Just... just a second."
>"What are..."
>You slide down the bed, stopping at her hind legs to part them gently, rolling her onto her back. Your nose is overwhelmed by her delicate musk. It does nothing to diminish your passions...
>"What-"
>"This is... it's something I want to do. For you. Okay?"
>She nods down to you
>You run your hands along her thighs, Rarity shivering in response
>"Tease me further? Hnnn... why?!"
>"For this."
>You lower your lips to her teats and take a nipple between them, biting down on the sensitive flesh
>She gasps, back arching above you

>You raise your head, looking up at her with mock concern
>"Should I stop?"
>"Don't you -dare-!"
>Feels good to smirk, but not quite as good as the knowledge of how much she's enjoying this
>Your face down once more, you suck and bite at the nipple, little whines and gasps coming from above, legs kicking out. You can't stop your hands from finding their way up her sides, slowly at first and then pulling down quicker
>Her breath is coming in short little breaths now, you stop the attention upon her teat, drawing an annoyed noise from her before you lower yourself to kiss at her inner right thigh
>"You... you aren't... aren't going to... !"
>No words would do justice, instead you kiss further inside her leg, slowly, delighting in the little shivers coursing through her
>You have to stop them kicking about, though, you're likely to lose a few teeth if this keeps up. Plus it nicely allows you access to more... private parts
>Yes, now moving closer to it, the scent intensifies. It drives you on, any thoughts of drawing this out too long now abandoned
>You kiss once, twice at the edge of her labia, drawing a soft little whine from her
>"Please..."
>You're not one to deny a lady, so you edge over, running your tongue just along her marehood, the musky, spicy taste dancing down your tongue as little droplets escape her
>Her back arches once more, the whine intensifying and then dropping down into hard, shuddering breaths

>Ah but you cannot let it end here. You can't see it but you know you're drawing near and... there it is, the tiny nub. You dart your tongue over it, thighs clenching against your grip as her body ripples
>"There...! There!"
>You lower your lips upon it, slowly sucking and swirling your tongue, your arms quickly growing tired as Rarity attempts to buck against you
>Hooves dart to your head, pushing you down and for a split second an image of a blue mare pressing herself down on you flashes before your mind. But this is different. You -want- this. You want her
>Squeaks, moans and heightened panting are your reward for your continued ministrations but her muscles are too insistent and you relinquish your grip, her hind legs darting forward, bucking lightly
>With your hands now freed of that chore you lazily raise them to rub at her teats, fingers sliding over her nipples and squeezing them lightly
>With your vision a sea of roiling white you close your eyes, focusing your attention on the sounds, smells and tastes
>Ah, the taste... no human girl had ever been this... exquisite; was it that Rarity's a pony? Or is it that she's a woman of such a ripe age? You care not, only berating yourself for ever having denied yourself this
>Her breaths shorten, a slight whine to her voice again though rising in pitch now
>She must be close, she has to be if the way her legs splay out and close in so quickly are anything to go by
>You redouble your efforts, a hand slipping down to stroke at her hot moistness, Rarity pushing back against the finger
>It's short lived, as her back arches one last time, holding for moments before she falls to the bed, panting, your reward another sweet taste of her juices and the knowledge of her satisfaction

>You lie there, stroking her stomach while her breathing settles, only moving when she's suitably relaxed. Now back by her side you can clearly see the contented smile upon her face
>You lick your lips before grabbing a tissue from the bedside locker, dabbing it upon them and then kissing her. No words are needed, not now
>Instead you put your arms over her and pull her close once more, kissing at her neck and shoulder while Rarity nuzzles in against your own neck
>"Oh! I almost forgot."
>She pulls away from you, grinning while gently pushing you onto your back. You shoot her a quizzical glance but she doesn't give any indication of what she's planned
>"I think I know how to do this..."
>She stands and moves into position over your body, her hindquarters roughly level with your head. Lowering herself, you delight in the warmth of her body against your own; at least this is a position you know is to her liking
>From this vantage you've got a perfect view of her toned buttocks and marehood, a sight that draws your hands onto those alabaster cheeks, to rest there and gently stroke them


>And then there's the sensation of a warm, soft breath over your member. Your eyes shoot wide at the realisation of what she's about to do
>But she's learned well from you and moves to start off, kissing at your inner thighs, slowly moving inwards. You can't stop your body from shivering at the sensation, the delicate softness of her lips upon this sensitive part of you something new and wonderful
>Your fingers clutch tighter at her rear and it's impossible to stop yourself from drawing her back, just slightly. It's the perfect position to return the favour and you're not going to shy away from that
>Those kisses edge ever closer to your member and though you try to concentrate on what's in fron of you it's just too difficult. Not least of all because your breathing has increased dramatically
>And she accused you of being a tease...

>Those soft kisses end abruptly and the warm breath across you returns. You shiver slightly, before gasping as warm wetness envelopes the head of your member
>Your arms reflexively tense, pulling her down onto your eager lips. She shudders slightly, her warm flesh rippling under your fingers. The scent of that musk returns, not quite as strong as before and it's now mixed with her own gentle aroma
>You shut your eyes under the intense pleasure of her lips lowering down over you, her tongue moving in long, slow strokes. This is obviously not her first time but it matters not - at least she knows what a male likes
>Her forelegs move from the bed to encircle your legs, holding them slightly apart as you had her own. As she does so, her lips move back, her tongue winding down in time with this
>Your own arms slide over her rump, gently keeping her from escaping your own ministrations. Your eyes remain closed as you bask in these wonderful sensations. Your tongue flicks out, pressing against and into her warmth
>Rarity tenses suddenly, halting in her own movement before resuming with a little increased speed. You gasp as she keeps a tight suck upon you, pulling off, only to plant a gentle kiss upon your member
>A part of you regrets not treating her to such thorough treatment but perhaps now you have a chance to resolve that
>You pull back from her, leaning up once more to kiss her delicate lips. She shivers, looking back at you
>"But-"
>"No reason... can't both... enjoy..."
>She turns back, kissing your member once more, you do the same, you both shiver a little at the mutual sensations. Her body warms against your own, as yours does in response
>Rarity begins to take you into her mouth and you press your tongue against and into her, slowly at first, swirling your tongue as she does the same

>She pulls up suddenly, panting
>"You're... making it hard for... me to concentrate!"
>"Likewise." You reply smugly
>With a look of faux reproach she resumes her licking and you of her
>Her forelegs move down along your legs, stroking back and forth. You never could have imagined even this could prove so sensual, her soft coat playing so delightfully against your skin
>She pulls back, you pull back. She flicks her tongue against the tip of your urethra you- you grunt, your head flopping back onto the pillow
>Ah yes, she's found your weakness now and you're damn sure she's going to exploit it. Which she does
>Moving her lips down just over the glans of your member she flicks her tongue over and back that tiny opening, your body tensing each time, as you struggle not to vocalise your pleasure. You can't give her that much satisfaction!
>With some will, you lean back up, lips instantly locking onto the position you'd earlier located her clitoris and running your own tongue against it
>She stops, squeaks and then redoubles her efforts, unwilling to be outdone
>And she isn't, as you begin to feel a familiar pressure build in your loins. You pull your head back
>"Rarity... wait... wait!"
>She stops suddenly, looking back to you
>"Did I... do something wrong?"
>"No... no... it's just we... wouldn't want this to... end before it begins..."
>A smirk and then, "We have all night, don't we?"
>You make to protest but that warmth and motion of her tongue instantly halts you, your breath catching in your chest

>Attempts to match her now are more difficult, your mind drawn further to the wonderfully pleasurable sensations now spreading out from your lower parts
>Her forelegs are still stroking up and down, warming you delightfully. The most you can do is equally run your hands over her back and rump, hoping she enjoys it
>A few more quick flicks of her tongue and you know this is it, you can't hold out, you cannot be stopped
>"Rarity! Wait! Stop!"
>You're not sure what her predilection is in this area but you prefer to err on the side of caution. Which results only in her pushing further down on your member as you release a low groan, your body expending itself
>Your arms fall limp upon her back as you feel her continued sucking. Your eyes slowly close once more, as you are lost to all but these sensations
>Slowly, her soft lips recede and you're dimly aware of the soft thrum of magic being used
>You blearily look up to see a tissue at her mouth, Rarity grimacing at you
>"My apologies but... I'm sure it's an... acquired taste."
>You smile weakly. "It... doesn't have to be..."
>She just shakes her head, crumpling up the tissue and tossing it into a nearby bin

>As you come down from that intense session, she rejoins you at your side, your arms moving to encircle her and cuddle her closely once again
>"What shall we do now?"
>"Nothing."
>And you don't, not immediately. You just want to lie there, holding her, enjoying the warmth of her body, the sweet scent of her coat and mane
>She kisses you once, twice, smiling all the while. Yes, you both needed this
>But the devil always finds word for idle hands and yours are not free from his misdirection as they slip down her gentle curves to rub at one of her teats
>She moans softly against you, pushing herself up against your hand and you dutifully lower it, fingers trailing over her marehood

>This is a return to what you've been used to over these months but now it feels decidedly more intimate
>Surely she knows to avoid the part of you that's still too sensitive, so concentrates on running a hoof over your stomach and chest. The feeling of that soft appendage never ceases to delight you...
>With one finger you slide inside her, your thumb lightly pressing down on that little nub, her walls clamping down upon you
>Rarity gasps, her hoof stopping its motion before shakily resuming it
>No, you wouldn't push her over the edge this time, just... tease her, as you so love to do
>Her lips search over your neck and chin before you lower your head to allow her to more easily find your own
>No matter how many times you may have kissed her you knew you'd never grow tired of those lips. Every meeting bringing with it a new taste or a new sensation as her experience against your own grew
>You pull out of her, your hand rising to once more cup her teat, clasping a nipple between two fingers
>She grunts, pressing against you. With your other arm you draw her chest to yours, that familiar warmth so nice
>You move your hand around over her soft buttock, pulling that part of her close, allowing her to feel that you've been enjoying this. She shudders as your hand passes over her backside and down again to that most sensitive of her parts
>You kiss her forehead, inhaling deeply of her mane, the scent doing nothing to diminish your desire for her right now
>You enter, pull out, run your fingers against the edges of her labia, slide your hand across her back and rump, kiss her as much and as many times as you can, little squeaks, moans and bodily shivers aplenty...
>All to keep her just at the precipice without being forced over

>But it could never last. Even you weren't so cruel as to tease her endlessly although Rarity does take matters into her own hooves, gently pushing you back
>"Ugh, you... you can be... so..."
>"Wicked?"
>"Yes!"
>"Oh, I think I like how you say that."
>You go to pull her back but she shakes your touch off, standing shakily
>"H-How are we to... do this?"
>You look at her, front lowered, rump in the air, tail aside. Of course, that would be how ponies couple and while you might like, in time, to try that you know of something far better. Far more to her desires
>"Would you stand over me, please?"
>She looks at you askance before obeying, With that, you gently pull her down on top of you
>"What are... ! Oh..."
>Her nethers come flush against your own, as you wrap your arms back over that beautifully sculpted back. Another thing you will never tire of - the softness and delicacy of her coat, richer than the finest velvet
>"Wouldn't you rather we see each other?"
>Rarity nods, smiling before leaning in to kiss you quickly
>Slowly, she begins to gently grind herself against you and you in turn undulate your hips in response
>Both of you are taken by a fit of small gasps, nothing could have prepared you for how wonderful this might feel. Once more you curse yourself internally for ever thinking to deny either of you this
>"Alright, darling... I-I'm ready."
>As if you needed her to voice that
>With one final push forward, she lays back and gently takes you inside her


>Neither of you make a move or a sound, lying there, taken by this new feeling. Every part of Rarity that touches you serves only to heighten your pleasure, even looking into her wide, blue eyes, seeing your own wonderment reflected in them
>"Is... is this... as you..."
>"Yes..."
>You are happy. You are beyond rapturous. Just to know that this is all she has wanted is beyond your hopes for the occasion. The thought of, perhaps, not measuring up against pony stallions had crossed your mind along with the inevitable humiliation on both your parts but this... no, this was perfect
>You don't move to draw out as you kiss her once more, lips dancing against one another, tongues fighting for dominance. Your hand finds the back of her head and gently presses down on it, not wanting this to end
>It falls, to her cheek, as warm and welcoming to your touch as any part of her body. Her eyes glimmer and you shut your own against the sight, fearful of the emotion overcoming you in equal measure
>She ends the kiss, moving her mouth to just beside your ear and whispers, "Thank you."
>You shake your head, hoping it's not too small a motion to notice

>So the two of you stay like that for moments longer, holding each other, before she takes the lead and gently pulls herself up and off you
>Both of you shudder at this new panoply of sensations, her insides twitching against your member with each tiny movement
>Your hands slide to her shoulders, slowly running down her warm coat, coming to rest gently on her buttocks, not pushing or pulling, still allowing her to lead
>And that is how it proceeds at first with slow, gentle movements, both of you caught up in each other

>Rarity begins to push a little harder back against you, breath catching at little moans that delight you
>Her movements hit a peak, though, and she grunts in frustration at how her hooves fail to find purchase against the bedclothes. You can't blame her, this is a new position. So you have nothing left but to take over, bracing your legs against giving a thrust against her pushing back
>You stop again, both of you, unprepared for how... good this feels. But it is only for a second as you pull back and thrust forward again. And again. Desire overtakes you and you fall into a rhythm
>Rarity's breathing becomes sharper, she raises her hooves to press them against your chest while her lips fall to your own, as you readily welcome them
>She tries to whine, to moan, to make her pleasure be known but you don't need any words, any sounds, only the natural language of her body that lets you know, more than she ever could, that this is what it wants
>Your hands move back up, gripping at her shoulders, pulling her down as she casts her own hooves over your shoulders

>If the contractions within her marehood are any indication she's close to her peak. You redouble your efforts, pressing on against the growing tiredness in your hips
>One... two... three more... and she's there, a high pitched whine as her back arches, her body tensing up, only to fall against your own but a moment later
>You take this as an opportunity to rest a moment. But only one, before you begin your attentions
>Rarity is, then, left with no time to recover from her ragged breaths as you feel yourself edging closer to your own climax
>"Rarity... I... you... should...", you grunt out the words, hoping she picks up the meaning
>"No... want you... inside..."
>You frown at her, or at least do your best to
>"Yes! Please... wanted it..."
>You nod slowly, continuing

>You'd like to think you were more man than to be so easily overcome by her but you know none could resist. Not Rarity
>Looking only into her eyes, you feel that same pressure building as before, only quicker
>A few thrusts thereafter and your eyes are shut against those sensations - so much more gloriously intense - as you cease your thrusting and allow Rarity to come to rest atop you
>You both lie like that panting, resting, desperately regaining lost breath until you open your eyes again and see her smiling down to you. A smile so much warmer and more satisfied than any you have ever seen grace those lips. Those lips that kiss you one last time as your arms rise to encircle her
>A soft, wavering thrum of magic is followed by the bedclothes being drawn upon the two of you

>Sleep doesn't claim you, not while you're still able to see her face
>As before she leans down and whispers into your ear, "Thank you."
>But this time there's a tiny quaver to her voice. You cannot blame her nor can you make a response for you know your own voice would fail you
>So instead you just hold her, under the covers

>Sleep comes some time later but it is with the vision of your beloved in your eyes, the warmth of her love in your heart and the knowledge that you have both finally been fulfilled that you allow it to claim you...
Chapter 7

>You stir from your rest, turning to find a white face still showing slumber. You love seeing her so innocent, like this. The temptation to run a hand down that fair cheek is too much and it's only through the greatest of luck that your beloved doesn't waken at your touch. Instead she sighs softly, pressing herself forward against you.
>These were your mornings now, now that things had changed so much. Well, it was only one thing but it was just so massive you were still getting used to it, somewhat.
>Weeks had passed since that fateful night in Stalliongrad and not long after returning to Ponyville Rarity had made some not quite subtle insinuations that you should no longer have as great a distance between you.
>This had gone on until you'd eventually asked her what ever was she talking about. Exasperated, she'd just outright asked you to move in with her. A gentle kiss and a whispered 'yes' was all it took to set her into an excited fit.

>Selling off your home had brought in enough bits to help her purchase materials for all the new orders from stallions across Equestria looking for the most chic garments that money could buy. The rest had gone towards buying a bed large enough for you (and her) and to replenishing your previously mortally wounded savings.
>You'd settled into a nice routine of sharing breakfast with her, coming back for lunch and then retiring to an evening of conversation and intimacy. The last part had, you admit, made that routine -very- nice.
>Even Sweetie Belle was... thrilled with these new arrangements. Apparently the thought of her sister and her boyfriend living together was just the most adorable thing ever. That was something else you liked - being able to care for someone Rarity so obviously did.

>The little filly had taken to you, seeking you out for assistance with her homework, while Rarity would look on, smiling. She wasn't your daughter, would never be. She wasn't even your sister but she was important to Rarity, which meant she was important to you.
>So now you find yourself looking at Rarity like this, almost every morning. At least the ones where you don't wake to find her already smiling to you. There are times where you still wonder how lucky you could be, to have found something so precious in this world that had previously seemed to be only something you tolerated.
>Rising is as much a chore as always, those moments in the morning seeming too few for your liking but needs must and while she might sometimes play the lady of leisure you had no such luxury. Besides, you always preferred to leave for work knowing she was still dreaming her dreams.
>At this hour Sweetie Belle is already up and feeding herself, readying her saddlebags and all that. You check to make sure it's a hearty breakfast and that she's remembered to put her history book back in her bag.
>Before departing she leaps into your arms and pecks you on the forehead. It takes a moment for you to react but you do so by returning the gesture, earing you a giggle before she scampers off to another day of finding herself.

>Twilight is, as always, keen to enquire about how life is now. Now that... certain unpleasant things are put behind you. Things you don't like to discuss with others. Things you receive little reminders of. One such, this morning.
>You set your mind to your work, eager to bury yourself in it and the odd thought of Rarity. Enough so that, just today, you take your break early to see her.
>You could do with it.

>Stepping through the door of your home you're not greeted with the sound of the sewing machine, soft humming or her melodious little greeting. There's nothing.
>"Rarity?" You set your jacket down and proceed into her workshop.
>"In here, darling." The voice calls out from the living room.
>You walk on in expecting... not expecting her to be sitting there so engrossed in a letter. One which she sets down on your arrival into the room, giving you a frown.
>"Rarity, please, you know..."
>"You can't put it off forever, dear. You know that."
>"Why? Why can't I!" It's easier to deal with the anger. It's not easy to direct it at her and you don't like doing it but she's not being fair. She's not...
>She doesn't flinch, doesn't sigh, doesn't move. You love her so much, she doesn't deserve this...
>"Because I know, my darling, I know how much it eats at you. Don't you think I hear you crying against my shoulder at night?"
>Oh god. God no, she hadn't. You'd been so sure to check she was asleep. And now the anger slips out of your grasp and there's only the terrible grief. And now she's at your side...
>"It's alright, you know. You can't put -this- off forever."
>The first tears roll down your cheeks as she gently leads you to the couch and takes your head against her chest.
>"Why haven't you told me?"
>"Because I...
>"You're weak?" You nod against her. "You're not weak. You're afraid and fear is perfectly natural. But you don't have to be. What she did was monstrous but she can never do it again and... she can never take away what we have."
>Your hand reached up into her mane, her chin rests against your head. "I'm sorry."

>"Please don't. Don't ever apologise for what was done to you. If you must be sorry, be sorry you never felt you could tell me."
>"But why? Why did she... ?"
>Those hooves tug you tightly. "Oh my dearest, didn't you once tell me that love makes us do terrible things?"
>You sniffle, your hand getting lost in that mane you love so well. "Didn't I... say it also... makes us do... wonderful things?"
>There's a long pause. "You did. And I'm holding one of them right now."
>You force your breathing under your control and wipe your eyes against her chest, hating what it must to to her coat. As you pull back you see a radiant smile directed at you. Suddenly, recalling what you now have, you don't feel quite so... ashamed.
>Her face suddenly turns very serious, though her hooves don't leave you. "You must do this, you know."
>You nod, trying so hard to keep your eyes dry. Putting a hand upon her back helps a little.
>"I know it's hard, please believe me."
>"I do. I know you..." You trail off, not wishing to draw so much attention to those memories.
>"So you know when I say you must confront this, you know I'm speaking from my heart." A tiny quaver enters her own voice and your eyes cease their attempts to embarrass you.
>"I don't... want you to have to suffer for so... so long, wondering..."
>You extend your grasp, pulling her tight to you. Stroking her back calms her, as it had before and you feel her hooves move over your own in a similar fashion.
>"I won't leave you. I'll never, ever abandon you. You must believe that." Her voice sounds stronger once more. "And I will be with you through all of this but you must, my dearest. You must."

>Another deep, shuddering breath. "I know. I've put it off too long."
>She squeezes you. You like that. "Then we shall go, together. The letter says this Friday, I know it's short notice-"
>"No." You pull back once more. "No, I need to do this, you're right. If it was off in the future I could just keep putting it off but now... No, I'll just have to... confront it." You don't like it, you don't want to but you know you have to. You know with her you can.
>"You'll feel better. I know it hurts so much now and it will hurt for a long time after but you have to take this first step."

>You make the most of the rest of your lunch, keeping to more pleasant topics but you can see that Rarity looks more satisfied now. You'd been wondering why she looked a little off in recent weeks. Your nerves feel shot but every time you look at her she smiles and you feel... if not better then more confident.
>She makes your tea - she's become quite good at that - and sits up against you as you both enjoy it, telling you of how Hoity Toity called this morning to see for himself this latest craze. He'd been all bluster about how, once again Miss Rarity had done it! And there was something after that. Another one of her little less-than-subtle remarks about how you might like to spend time advising her on some of the designs. Perhaps... guide her hooves upon the showing machine?
>You can't deny how much you deny that last part but you know what she means and you agree, feeling like if you're living here you may as well have some involvement in her business. Just as well, as the orders are coming in hard and fast now.

>Returning to the library you ask Twilight for Friday off immediately. You don't tell her why and seeing the look on your face she doesn't ask, just agrees to do so. Her hoof on your shoulder and small smile says all that needs to be said.
>Your nervousness dissipates somewhat as you find yourself engrossed in your work. And thoughts of Rarity. Again. She'd been so proud when she told you about Hoity Toity and so... pleased when you were willing to assist her. It seemed a little cliché, the two of you working together like that but it also felt good. You didn't have her eye for fashion but time spent with her was time well spent, as far as you cared.
>The hours pass by and finally you find your work if not neatly concluded then enough progress for you to do so soon enough and move onto more important subjects. Twilight even hinted at a trip to the old Castle of the Two Sisters to study some of its latent magical fields.

>The sun hangs low in the sky as you near your home, greeted by a tan pony? Ah yes, it was too much to think that knowing you were with Rarity she'd just give up.
>"Well howdy, sugarcube! Say, yer looking mighty swell today, is that a new shirt yer wearin'?"
>"No." You're tired, you just want to slip into the grasp of your lady-love, not deal with this shit.
>"Listen, Ah was thinkin'-"
>"Not interested."
>"Hold on! Hear me out! Ah was thinkin' since yer with Rarity now - and like ya told me, yer not leavin' her - ya might be open to uh... Darn, what did 'Shy call that thing..."
>Is she actually suggesting...
>"Aww, shoot, it's like a threesome but she used some a her fancy words fer it."
>"Good night, Applejack." You push past her, closing the door in her face before she can object.

>"But you said he'd be home by now!"
>Oh you know that little voice. It's enough to bring a smile to your lips.
>"And here he is now! Honestly, Sweetie Belle, you must learn to have a little patience."
>The little filly turns to you and leaps into your arms once more, hugging you tightly. "Hi, Anon! We were waiting for you!"
>You squeeze her gently before setting her down and moving on to Rarity. "And I've been waiting for this." Your hand touches her cheek and your lips meet hers, amidst an 'Awww!' from behind.
>Pulling back you see her eyes closed and a wide smile upon those lips. "How do you always know what to bring home."

>You help Rarity in preparing dinner. The first time you'd seen her cook had been amazing. All of that equipment was here for a reason, as with her pantry being so well stocked. No meal was too small not to be turned into something spectacular. Even the mundane was given her magnificent little flairs, turning it into a veritable artwork worthy of anything else she creates.
>But more than that you enjoy sitting down with her and her sister. It's like... It's almost like you're a family. You know you and your paramour surely are but you have plans to seal that. You knew this was what you wanted your life in Equestria to be now.
>After that Sweetie Belle shyly asks for help with her homework. You suspect it's more a chance to just spend time with you but you'd never deny her regardless. If only to see Rarity looking on so proudly.

>With another day done you settle in for the night next to her. Despite the day's occurrences you don't let it get you down, your hands finding the warmth of her body more than welcome as she turns to you, that smile you know all too well clear even in this low light.
>Not another word is said between you that night.

>The rest of the week passes by... with difficulty. Every night you find yourself in Rarity's embrace, second-guessing whether you should even be going through with this. And every night she gently reminds you that this is necessary. That without this first step you'll forever be stuck at this precipice of pain.
>And it is only by her that you have the strength to push beyond it. Only by her gentle touch and kind words that you feel yourself yet uplifted.

>Friday comes.
>You don't sleep much the night before. Neither does Rarity. You talk, she talks, you're not really sure what either of you talked about but you did. You get up early, wash, dress nicely, eat... everything feels so normal. Until you see her waiting for you at the door of your home. She'd reassured your again and again she'd be there.
>The walk to Ponyville general is a long one. The building only lies on the far side of town but you make no hurry in getting there and Rarity doesn't rush you. Your hands are clasped behind you, a cold sweat running down your body. You feel sick.
>And then she bumps against you lightly and smiles and you feel... not better but the knowledge that she's there, that she's the one in your life now is good to remember.

>You stand outside Ponyville General. Take a deep breath, walk in. The smell of disinfectant is one you know. It's just a hospital. They've got a psychiatric ward but it's well locked down. You'll be okay.
>You walk down the halls, doctors and nurses going about their business, ponies visit loved ones. It feels so surreal in how normal it all is.
>Deeper into the building until you come to the point where the psychiatric wards are sectioned off. There's no going back now. Not when you've got your hand on her shoulder.

>The doctor is waiting for you near the room where you'll be meeting her, a grey stallion with a blonde mane.
>"Ah, Mister Anon, I'm glad you decided to come visit our patient. I really do believe this will be beneficial for her recovery."
>You nod curtly. "Will there be-"
>"Security?" He nods, still smiling. "Yes, yes, you needn't worry. We're well equipped to deal with some of our more... troublesome patients but I'm confident it won't be necessary." You're not.
>He begins explaining to you that they've been using a combination of cognitive therapy and anti-psychotics to help her condition. She's been responding well so far but she often mentions you and laments that she doesn't see you. Her other therapists believe being able to meet with you should help her better deal with what she did.
>You don't really care for his words, seeing her for yourself will be the real test.

>He stops you outside the room. "Now, -if- she does become violent please allow our staff to restrain her, they're trained to do so without injuring her." You're not sure if you have it in you to really resist if she tried... that again.
>Rarity reaches up and touches your shoulder. "I'll be right here, my darling. As soon as this is over I'll be waiting for you." Her eyes glimmer slightly and you touch her hoof, hoping to reassure her. Or perhaps yourself.
>You feel bile rise at the back of your throat as you step in. She's not there. Not yet. Just two burly looking guards at the opposite side of the room, a steel table and a chair on each side of it.
>You take a seat and wait.


>You're not sure how long you sit there before you hear muffled clopping from the door opposite you. The guards stand straight as its opened and... Dash is ushered through by a large brown pony.
>She's wearing the same pale green gown the other patients do but there's something different. Some... thing is attached to her wings at the back, holding them by her sides.
>She blinks once, twice. Squints leaning forward and then takes a few steps in.
>"A-... Anon?"
>You swallow in a dry throat and nod. Her face lights up.
>"Anon! I-It's really you! You came! You... You came..." Her smile widens as her eyes moisten. "They... they said you'd come but..." She walks the rest of the way and sits down on the chair, holding her hooves over the table.
>At any other time you might have reached out and gently taken them in your hands but right now... Right now they serve only to remind you of how they pressed against you as she...
>"I missed you so much, Anon!" She sounds so happy. Like nothing ever happened. Like she never did a thing. "Anon? You okay? C-Can you hear me?" There's a nervous little chuckle.
>"Yes." Her face lights up once more.
>"I really missed your voice!" She looks down and pulls her hooves back over the table. "Um... the doctors told me... told me there's something I gotta say..." She frowns heavily, looking down into her lap. "I... I'm sorry?" She looks back up to you, understanding washing over her features. "I'm sorry. I-I'm sorry!"
>For a split second you believe her. You see the way her lip quivers and her eyes glisten again. How she brings a shaking hoof up over the table and holds it out. "I'm sory-y-y-y!" She chokes suddenly, sobs wracking her body. "I-I-I I dunno... what to... say..."

>"There's nothing you can say." She continues sobbing, though she's looking at you now. "After what you did to me-" No, that's something you can't say. Not to her.
>"Oh... oh my gosh..." Her sobbing ceases and the hoof goes to her mouth. "I-I did that. I -did- that, didn't I?"
>You feel your fists clench at your side as you nod slowly to her. Hating her is better than fearing her. Better than feeling sick at what she did.
>"Bro. Bro I... I can't-"
>"Don't call me that." No, why is your voice quavering like this. You can't let her think she's bested you. "You're not my bro, Dash. Not any more." You clench your fists tighter against this.
>"But... But I'm... your bro." She frowns slightly, mouth falling. "I... that's what I am. That's why you came here. That's why I'm here. 'Cause I... hurt you." She looks down now, frowning more heavily. "I hurt you because... because of... her..."
>That voice... you don't like the hard edge that enters her voice at that last word. "Dash forget about her." You won't - can't. But if you're going to do this you need to keep her calm. "Talk about me. Me."
>She holds herself for a moment before letting out a shaky breath. "Yeah... you. Us." Her smile returns. "I... I'm getting out soon, ya know that? The docs say I'm doing great!"
>Oh Christ... Dash, out on the streets again. Out where she can get you, can touch you can...
>"How, uh, how do you feel about... me?" You feel sick again. If only they'd given you something for these blasted nerves.
>A very unsettling smile tugs back her lips. "C'mon bro, you know how I feel, right?" She leans across the table, lowering her voice. "You told me before, it's okay."

>"Dash, it's not okay. You remember that, right?" She frowns suddenly, pulling back.
>"You said... you said you had somep0ny else... um..."
>Alright, pull her back. "Have the girls been visiting you?" You know they have, Twilight told you of Dash's progress but you're starting to doubt her words now.
>"Girls? Oh yeah! Applejack was in. Pfft, she was all 'Ah just dunno what Ah'm gonna do about Anon, he don't seem ta want me' but I just reminded her you're my guy." She snickers into a hoof. Jesus, if this is her making progress then what the hell was she like when they first started working with her?
>"How about Twilight?" This should be interesting.
>"Twi? Oh yeah, she was telling me all about you. She said you were real happy working with her but... um, she said you were helping somep0ny else too..." She looks off, her eyes vacant. "I... I can't remember who it was. Pinkie? Was it her?"
>You don't move a muscle, don't give her any hint of who it is.
>"Pinkie came to see me too. She wanted to throw a party - in a hospital! Can you believe her?"
>It's so strange: she seems almost normal when Rarity isn't mentioned but as soon as she is she sounds like she's slipping away. How haven't her doctors noticed that?
>"Y-Yeah, she's kinda funny." You try to smile and are sure it comes off more as a grimace. Dash buys it, grinning back to you. You don't like the sight of that.
>"Hey, one of the girls didn't see me. It was..." You can't avoid this, eventually she's going to come up.
>"Rarity."
>"Yeah! Her! What is she caught up in her *snerk* dresses?" Why is she so suddenly normal? She's actually smiling and talking normally about her. Was it just a slip earlier?

>"Uh... yeah, she's been really caught up in some big orders from-"
>"How do you know that?" And there comes the little edge creeping in again. "How would -you- know what she's up to."
>"Because, Dash-" Okay, just try to be reasonable, maybe you can calm her down.
>"Because you're bucking her! Aren't you!" It comes out through gritted teeth and her eyes stare daggers at you. "You... You were -my- guy. I waited for you. I waited... three years." Even through her anger her lower lip starts to tremble again. "I was such a... good pony. I even held them off and you... why didn't you..." She stops, raising a hoof again, holding it on the table.
>"Dash, you know why. You-"
>"I had to!" She almost shouts that, the guards at the rear lean forward. "You... you weren't gonna give me my chance!" Tears start falling down her cheeks, her gown puffing out with her deep breaths. "Why couldn't you understand? I love you, Anon! I always loved you!"
>No she doesn't. This isn't love, you know what love is. You hold it in your arms every night.
>"Please, Dash, don't just throw it all away."
>"I'm not! You are!" She slams her hooves on the table, the guards take a few steps foward. "I don't wanna life without you!" She stretches a hoof across the table to you. "Please, Anon! Please just don't shoot me down!"
>You press back against your chair, suddenly terrified of that little blue hoof. "D-Dash, c'mon now-"
>"Please! That's all it'll take! I swear!" She pulls herself onto the table, the guards start moving foward quicker. You begin scrabbling against the floor. "J-Just one chance! Just one!"

>She darts forward and in an instant the guards are on top of her, she wails as they pull her back off the table. Only now are you aware of how heavy your breathing is as you slowly lean forward and place your hands on that cold steel.
>"Please, Anon! Please! Just let me show you that I..." It trails off as she's dragged out, the door closed behind her.
>You sit for minutes longer, just staring at that door, wondering what's not to become of her. Presently, the door behind you opens. You stand on shaky legs and wobble out, Rarity rushing up to you as you exit. Your arms find her back and you don't stop yourself as the tears come.
>"I'm... very sorry about that, Mister Anon. She'd been much more responsive with the others. We thought she was fit enough to meet with you but... well, clearly she's still far too much of a danger to release just yet. We shall continue with our treatments, however."
>You don't really listen to him, don't really care. You care about the mare in your arms and the way she holds you tightly to herself, whispering that it's okay now, you're out of there.

>In time you compose yourself and Rarity lets go. "How do you feel?"
>You look into her eyes and try to find the words. "Horrible..." You can't.
>"Yes." It's very quiet when she says that. "You will. I'm sorry, my darling, there's nothing I can say that will ease your pain. Nothing I can do."
>You sniff, bending down to slip an arm over her. "You can... stay with me."
>She nuzzles in against your neck. "Oh yes, of course! You don't have to fear facing any of this without me." Taking a deep breath you pull back from her.
>"Let's go. I don't... want to be here any more." She nods and you both set off with more purpose than you entered.

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>In her dreams, she's flying. High above the clouds, nothing and nop0ny can touch her. Light balms her tired limbs and cool winds blow through her soft mane. She dives down suddenly, already knowing where he'll be.
>He's by the lake. Their lake. The one she stops at every evening. Diving faster and faster until... she halts suddenly. She doesn't want to hurt him, she loves him too much for that. Instead she pulls up to find him reclining against the tree, smiling, waiting for her as always.
>The mare trots over and embraces him. He's so warm, so comforting to her. It's cold after the dive, she likes this. He tells her they can't stay. She recoils, why not? Because they have a warm bed awaiting them.
>She doesn't wait, flying ahead of him. She is so happy.

>They are in his home. No, their home. He made it theirs some time ago so everything could be perfect. Everything -is- perfect now. Now it is.
>She waits on their bed, larger than anything she'd ever need. Another reminder of who she shares it with. She presses her nose into the pillow, breathing in his scent. It makes her shudder in a way she loves the feeling of.
>He walks in, smiling to her. She smiles back, patting the bed. He doesn't hesitate but takes his time undressing, of course he would know how much she loves it. Slipping under the covers she shivers at this warmth she loves so well.
>She loves him so, so much. She leans forward, eyes closing...

>She wakes to find herself on a hard bed, cold walls all around and darkness. It's often dark in the cell.
>He is not here. There are no clouds, she cannot fly.
>She is alone.

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