-
1.
>Sitting in the locker room, you can hear the quiet roar of a packed crowd outside.
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2.
>You knew every single pony who followed hoofball in Ponyville was out there.
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3.
>Somehow the tension between you and Cloudchaser had become public knowledge.
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4.
>And, of course, it had only fomented the excited talk building up to this game.
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5.
>You could not deny that it bothered you that your personal life was somehow involved in this.
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6.
>But you also cannot deny that your growing grudge against Cloudy made this game that much more important to you.
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7.
>Applejack is talking, her own apple family version of your usual pep talk.
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8.
>You regain focus just in time to follow the team out onto the field.
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9.
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10.
>Coming in at the half, you look around to see a tired and beaten team.
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11.
>The speed of their offense is running your defense into the ground.
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12.
>And running the score up on the board.
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13.
>The two interceptions you've thrown haven't helped.
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14.
>You know the team is looking to you for guidance.
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15.
>Stepping into the shower, you douse yourself with cool water, helping to clear your head.
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16.
>You're getting wrapped up in the drama, the tension.
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17.
>And that sucks.
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18.
>It isn't fair to your team.
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19.
>And it's killing the fun of the game.
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20.
>You aren't going to the end this season, and everyone knows it.
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21.
>So why the pressure?
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22.
>Because of Flitter?
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23.
>She only comes to these games because of her sister.
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24.
>Stop playing for her, or for Cloudy.
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25.
>Time to play for your girls, your friends and for fun.
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26.
>Yeah.
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27.
>Let's have some fun.
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28.
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29.
>Waltzing back into the locker room, you wait for the team to reassemble before taking a knee.
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30.
"First off, I want to apologize." you start, holding a hand up to silence objections. "I've been distracted. And I've been playing to impress, and that makes me a hypocrite. What do I always tell y'all?"
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31.
>"Have fun." Applejack answers.
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32.
"Exactly. And I'm not having fun, and I'm letting my personal headspace drag y'all down. That ends here." you explain.
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33.
>You lay out a few changes, including a new plan for the offense.
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34.
>Their pass defense was killing your team.
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35.
>Long passes were impossible.
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36.
>So you've got a new plan.
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37.
"Everybody runs now. Their defense can barely handle Applejack on the ground. So what if we ground Rainbow and swap out Dusty for Caramel. Hell, I'll even run it if I need to."
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38.
>"Ugh, like, I know you're right and everything, but running is totally lame." Rainbow sighs.
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39.
"Well here's the choice Dash: you start outflying your guards, or we start running the ball."
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40.
>"Yeah yeah, I get it."
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41.
"Let's go have some fun."
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42.
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43.
>Another quarter done.
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44.
>Your new plan is working.
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45.
>Not quickly.
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46.
>But it is gaining yards, and the light-duty high-speed pegasi defense is getting banged up trying to block your audible-run offense.
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47.
>You had held Rainbow back, promising her there was a reason.
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48.
>And with the fourth quarter about to start, you've got that reason on your mind.
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49.
>Not yet though...
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50.
>As the line forms up in front of you, a shout sends the ball flying into your hands for a quick handoff to Applejack.
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51.
>Three yards.
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52.
>Not yet, but soon.
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53.
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54.
>You've closed the gap to two touchdowns, but the clock only has two minutes left.
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55.
>Rainbow is rapidly becoming insufferable as she begins to despair.
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56.
>The defense is on the field, and that gives you time to plan.
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57.
>There's enough time.
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58.
>But just barely.
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59.
"Alright Rainbow, we need to score and fast."
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60.
>"Duh, Anon! We're gonna lose!"
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61.
"Like hell we are." you shoot back. "We're going to line up like a run play again, but Rainbow, if you see clear skies in the backfield, you take off as fast as you can. I'll hold onto the ball until you get clear."
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62.
>"We'll have to hope Mac can get us th' ball back awful fast if we're gonna score twice."
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63.
"Right. We'll try for an onside kick. They'll expect it, but we have to try."
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64.
>"It's a gamble, but it's all we can do." Rainbow sighs.
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65.
>Your plan in place, you watch the line stop the Raiders on thirds down.
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66.
>Not being even remotely within scoring distance, the Raiders line up to kick...
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67.
>And a firetruck red blur knocks the ball clean out of the air as linemen scatter like bowling pins.
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68.
>Pigskin in his mouth, Big Mac runs clear down the field, knocking a final defender over as he barrels into the end zone.
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69.
"Hey Rainbow?"
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70.
>"Yeah Anon?"
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71.
"Onside kick is out. Just catch the damn ball."
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72.
>"You got it."
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73.
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74.
>With only a minute left on the clock, your team lines back up.
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75.
>Down by a touchdown, you've got sixty seconds to tie the game.
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76.
>A big pass play from Rainbow has you only thirty yards from the goal line.
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77.
>Hiking the ball, the teams lurch into motion and you hand off to Applejack...
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78.
>Only 24 yards to go, but only 45 seconds to do it.
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79.
>Repeating the play, you're down to 20 yards and twenty eight seconds.
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80.
>Using your last timeout, you huddle up the line.
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81.
"One last big play and we've got it in the bag. Here's how it's going to work-"
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82.
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83.
>Rushing to places, you quickly call the snap as soon as the Raiders are in place, leaving them as little time as possible.
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84.
>Dropping back, you watch as Rainbow and AJ rocket up the sides.
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85.
>As they near the end zone, the Raider's line breaks through your offensive line.
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86.
>Turning across the field, you pass laterally to Dusty.
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87.
>Dropping farther back, the Raiders defense turns point towards your teammate.
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88.
>Rainbow turns and takes flight as Dusty laterals back to you.
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89.
>Reaching back, you drill a straight-line bullet to Rainbow Dash, who tumbles triumphantly onto her hooves.
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90.
>But you've got to make the extra point still, or you'll lose.
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91.
>And Applejack quickly herds the team back into line, for a quick-snap on an audible play.
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92.
>Taking a knee, you hold the ball for the kicker...
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93.
>And look up just in time to see the kick knocked out of the air.
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94.
>It whistles past your head and you scramble onto your feet after it.
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95.
>Chasing after it, Dash beats you to it.
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96.
>As two pegasus charge down at her, you jump in for the block as Dash makes a break for it.
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97.
>The impact of the two defenders knocks you off your feet, landing hard on your side and twisting your shoulder painfully.
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98.
>Looking for Dash, you spot her in the end zone.
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99.
>You'd sigh a breath of relief if that hit hadn't knocked the wind out of you.
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100.
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101.
>You savor the roar of the crowd as you lie there on the ground, air slowly returning to your lungs.
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102.
>When AJ finally pulls you back to your feet, the elation really hits you.
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103.
>With a big goofy grin on your face, you scan the crowd and wave to your girls.
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104.
>You've only got two more games left.
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105.
>But the season is effectively over for you now.
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106.
>Making your way into the locker room, you retreat to the showers.
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107.
>As the water washes over you, you consider the next game.
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108.
>Not the worst team, but nowhere near the Stormers or the Raiders.
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109.
>Then a bye week followed by your final match, against the worst team in the league.
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110.
>You'll talk to Mac first, but you're thinking that at least one team practice this week is going to get cancelled.
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111.
>It'll give the ponies a chance to rest, and free up an additional weeknight or two for you.
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112.
>And maybe this week you can abscond to Canterlot again.
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113.
>Hand deliver some of your work and meet with the ponies at the Academy.
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114.
>Take one of your mares with you.
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115.
>Aloe wanted to see some art exhibit, it's probably only there for so long.
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116.
>That sounds like a good plan.
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117.
>Turning off the water, you grab a towel.
-
118.
>You can plan more later, you have ponies waiting for you now.
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119.
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120.
>Coming out of the locker room, you scan the retreating crowd.
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121.
>A small group of the team's fans throng around you bursting with congratulations and wishing you well.
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122.
>You smile and nod, and wave and smile and nod, all the while slowly wading out into the crowd.
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123.
>The game has been over for a while and most of the townsfolk are heading home.
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124.
>Turning a corner, you manage to catch a glimpse of two purple pegasi near the edge of the stands.
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125.
>Stepping into the light, and away from the few lingering ponies, something makes you pause.
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126.
>Why are you doing this?
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127.
>Flitter glances back and her gaze meets yours for just a second.
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128.
>Turning away, she quickly takes to the air, following her sister into the night.
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129.
>You can feel your brow furrow in frustration.
-
130.
"Cloudchaser."
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131.
>"Nope. Guess again." a voice says, accompanied by a gentle bump to your side.
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132.
>A smile quickly wipes away the hint of a scowl that was forming at the corners of your mouth as you turn to see Roseluck at your side.
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133.
>Running a hand through her mane, you catch an ear and gently rub it between your thumb and forefinger.
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134.
>Rose hums contentedly as you continue for a moment.
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135.
>"You seem awfully quiet for how much you've been talking about this game."
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136.
"Hm? Oh, just a little distracted." you say, shaking your head.
-
137.
>"Mhm. It makes a mare nervous."
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138.
>Taking a knee, you quickly pull Rose in.
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139.
"Don't you ever worry about that. I mean it." you say, wrapping her in a tight hug.
-
140.
>Before you can lean back, she hops forward to plant a quick kiss on your lips.
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141.
>"Let me guess, you came looking for Flitter." Rose states quietly.
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142.
"Yup."
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143.
>"Did you find her?"
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144.
"Well-"
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145.
>"Not in time, then." Rose nods. "C'mon. The girls are looking for you and my parents are waiting. Don't you want to celebrate?"
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146.
>You scan the now empty sky one last time.
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147.
"Let's go."
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148.
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149.
>Festivities are in full swing by the time your little group arrives at the usual tavern.
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150.
>While normally you'd join Rainbow and AJ, you've got company this time.
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151.
>Four mares and Rose's parents plus you.
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152.
>Y'all aren't going to fit at the already packed usual table.
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153.
>So instead you take the big corner booth.
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154.
>You find yourself pushed into the back corner, Rose and her parents on one side and Aloe followed by Lotus then Lyra on your other.
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155.
>To your relief, Snap immediately dives into hoofball talk.
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156.
>Rose and her mother are giggling about something to your side, but you're unable to lean in close enough to hear clearly.
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157.
>Lyra jumps into talking hoofball with you and Snap, which is a surprise.
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158.
>Lotus occasionally pipes up, when she isn't having a whispered argument with Aloe over the seating arrangements.
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159.
>Aloe is glued to your left side, one hoof in your hand, the other fending off Lotus.
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160.
>Sipping your whiskey sour, you settle in to savor the chaos.
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161.
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162.
>"Th' Eagles are gonna go all th' way this year. I'm tellin' ya, Anon!" Snap says, jabbing a hoof at you.
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163.
"They have a good team, but they also have a tough schedule!"
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164.
>"Who do they play that's so tough?" Lyra asks.
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165.
"Dodge City-"
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166.
>"The Chiefs!? Their quarterback is terrible!"
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167.
"They have the best defense in the country to make up for it."
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168.
>"Alright. Ya got me there." Snap says. "But just because it's gonna be low scoring doesn't mean Filly won't win!"
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169.
"And you have to play the Giants. Their quarterback isn't anything special, but-"
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170.
>"Yeah, they've got Buckham receiving." Snap grumbles. "To tartarus with Manehattan."
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171.
"Here's to that." you say, offering a toast.
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172.
>Snap meets your glass with his, and you both down your drinks.
-
173.
>You flag down the waitress and go to order another for each of you when Lilac intervenes.
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174.
>"I think that's enough, Snappy. It's getting late, and we have a train to catch in the morning."
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175.
>"Tch. S'pose you're right." he scowls. "I guess we're going then."
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176.
>As the flower family slides out, you follow.
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177.
"Heading in with your parents?"
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178.
>"Of course." Rose replies. "You live a lot closer than they do, after all."
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179.
>You take a knee and wrap her in a hug.
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180.
"Are you coming to Lyra's concert tomorrow? I have an entire box purchased."
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181.
>"I'll have to ask Lily and Daisy. I'll let you know."
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182.
"Okay then. Goodnight."
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183.
>Letting go of Rose, Lilac moves in for one of her own.
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184.
>"It's been so nice to meet you! You'll have to come out to Filly sometime to meet Laurel and the girls!"
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185.
"Absolutely." you agree. "I'll leave it to Rose to plan that with you."
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186.
>Getting to your feet, you turn to Snapdragon.
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187.
"Snap." you say, offering a hand.
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188.
>He takes it and shakes with a nod.
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189.
>The group heads for the door then, and a nudge at your waist pushes you back to the table.
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190.
>Looking down, you smile at the insistent periwinkle mare and move to take a seat.
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191.
>"Anon? I'm going to go too. I need to be well-rested for the concert." Lyra says, getting to her hooves.
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192.
>Putting a gentle hand on the pushy mare at your side, you step away from the table and take a knee again.
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193.
>Lyra comes around for her hug, and you plant a kiss on her forehead.
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194.
"Alright. Will I see you before the concert?"
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195.
>"Probably not. I'll be super busy."
-
196.
"Okay. Where should we meet afterwards?"
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197.
>"I can just come up to your box! That'll be way easier than you trying to find me backstage!"
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198.
"Sounds like a plan. See you tomorrow."
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199.
>"Goodnight Anon, 'night girls!" Lyra says with a smile, before turning and disappearing into the crowd.
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200.
>With your numbers thinned, you wave Aloe and Lotus over to the main table.
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201.
>Ordering a fresh round for the group, you settle in for the night.
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202.
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203.
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204.
>The morning sun on your face breaks you from sweet, sweet sleep.
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205.
>Stretching, you find one of your arms pinned under a snoring ball of blue.
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206.
>Rolling onto your side, you pull her in close.
-
207.
>And in doing so learn that your right shoulder is seriously sore.
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208.
>You should have tucked and rolled with that hit yesterday.
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209.
>Absentmindedly petting Lotus's mane, you consider what you need to accomplish for the day.
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210.
>You need to get to Rarity's to pick up your new shirt and tie.
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211.
>She'll probably scold you for not doing it yesterday, but you were busy.
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212.
>Aside from that, you'll probably soak in the tub to rest your sore shoulder and, of course, there's the concert tonight.
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213.
>A yawn alerts you to the fact that Lotus is now awake.
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214.
>"Mmm good morning, Anon." she groans, rubbing the sleep from her eyes.
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215.
"Good morning, pretty pony."
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216.
>"So what are you doing between now and the concert?"
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217.
"I just have an errand or two to run. Nothing exciting."
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218.
>Her tail swishes as she looks into your eyes.
-
219.
>"You mean to tell me that I have you all to myself? All day?"
-
220.
"Only if you want to be bored." you shrug. "Your call."
-
221.
>She leans forward for a kiss, and crawls forward to press deeper.
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222.
>And to step straight onto your shoulder!
-
223.
"Mrph!" you grunt through the kiss, causing Lotus to pull back.
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224.
>She looks at you with concern.
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225.
"Shoulder. Please."
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226.
>Lotus takes a few steps back.
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227.
>"Are you okay?"
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228.
"I just fell a little hard on my shoulder yesterday. No big deal." you assure her, rolling out of bed.
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229.
>Lotus follows you into the bathroom, where you pop a couple of aspirin.
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230.
>She leans up against your leg, and stares up at you.
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231.
>"You know, I happen to have a skill set that could help."
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232.
>Laughing, you run your fingers through her mane.
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233.
>"Anon, I'm being serious." she frowns. "Come to the spa with me."
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234.
"I don't think Aloe would appreciate us taking up customer space."
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235.
>"I think you forget that you and Aloe are also dating." Lotus counters. "She won't mind."
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236.
"Well at least let me shower and get dressed. Then we can get breakfast and head to the spa."
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237.
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238.
>Cleaned up and on your way, the two of you stop by Sugarcube Corner to pick up some pastries.
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239.
>A croissant for Lotus, a Bear Claw for you, and a cherry danish for Aloe.
-
240.
>And three cups of coffee, of course.
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241.
>Too bad you can't irish this up, that'd help your sore shoulder.
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242.
>Or at least take your mind off of it.
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243.
>Soon enough you arrive at the spa, and you follow Lotus inside.
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244.
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245.
>Aloe isn't at the desk, but you can hear Rarity's voice coming from one of the rooms.
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246.
>Leaving the coffee and pastry at the desk for her, you and Lotus move farther down the hall.
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247.
>"First a soak in the hot tub." she instructs. "Hopefully it's just a bit sore, and not something more serious."
-
248.
"Cheers to that." you offer, raising your coffee before following Lotus into a side room. "A private room, just for me? You shouldn't have."
-
249.
>Lotus beckons for you to lean down.
-
250.
>"Two things, Anonymous. First, someone didn't bring a swimsuit-" she says, firmly tapping your sore shoulder. "-and therefore will not be decent for the public pools."
-
251.
"And the second?" you ask, rubbing the spot she jabbed.
-
252.
>Lotus shuts the door before replying.
-
253.
>"Second, you have mares now. And we want to take care of our stallion, even if he is stupid and insists on taking care of us and wanting nothing in return."
-
254.
"That is an oversimp-"
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255.
>"Anon. I should warn you now that both Lyra and Roseluck have started dropping in." she interrupts you. "Sometimes for the spa, sometimes just to talk."
-
256.
>Well then.
-
257.
>It's perfectly reasonable, and on one hand you're happy that the four of them are getting along.
-
258.
>Life will be easier if your mares are all friends, after all.
-
259.
>But the way Lotus talks about it...
-
260.
>You like smart mares, but your spidey-senses are warning you that you're being outmaneuvered here.
-
261.
>Not sure how.
-
262.
>Just that you are.
-
263.
>"Anon? Are you going into the tub with your clothes on?"
-
264.
"Oh! Right, sorry."
-
265.
>Stripping down, you sit on the edge and dangle your feet in the hot water, adjusting to the heat.
-
266.
>"Anon, just so you know, you've got a fairly large bruise on the back side of your shoulder."
-
267.
"No surprises there, at least it wasn't my throwing arm."
-
268.
>Sliding into the tub proper, Lotus turns on the jets before climbing in across from you.
-
269.
>Turning, you recline and let your shoulder submerge in the warm waters.
-
270.
>Sitting in silence for a while, you take stock of life.
-
271.
>And honestly, life is pretty good.
-
272.
>Stressful at times, but good.
-
273.
>"What are you thinking about?" Lotus asks.
-
274.
"Hmm?"
-
275.
>"You look lost in thought." she explains, sliding next to you. "What are you thinking about?"
-
276.
"Oh, everything and nothing."
-
277.
>"That's not very helpful." she frowns.
-
278.
"But it's accurate." you reply. "I was just contemplating the big picture, you know?"
-
279.
>"Tell me about this picture. Where am I?"
-
280.
"Aha, the real motive comes out." you say with a grin. "Alright, just stop me when I start to ramble."
-
281.
>You pause to break out your finest words.
-
282.
>A base of carefully selected nouns, forming the base shapes of the picture.
-
283.
>Nouns like Home, Family, and Wife.
-
284.
>A vibrant splash of adjectives for color.
-
285.
>You're careful to only use 'large' to describe the Home and the Family.
-
286.
>Really the overall theme you're pursuing is 'comfort'.
-
287.
>You want your mares and children to never want for anything.
-
288.
>That seems about right.
-
289.
>It'll be a lot of work, but you can make it happen.
-
290.
>You find yourself nodding along as you speak, reasserting your convictions, when Lotus puts a hoof on your (still sore) shoulder.
-
291.
>"Anon. You're rambling." she interrupts. "It's kind of cute, and kind of neurotic."
-
292.
"Hmm, I'll have to work on my technique."
-
293.
>"Rose is right though. You'll make an excellent husband." she muses "If you don't work yourself into a heart attack."
-
294.
"Don't worry about it. I've been assured that having seven mares won't be stressful at all."
-
295.
>"It's not us that you need to worry about." she quips.
-
296.
"Oh really? Because I think that sometimes the four I'm dating right now are already too devious for my own good." you reply, leaning back.
-
297.
>"We are very devious." she agrees. "But just devious enough for your own good."
-
298.
"What does that even mean?"
-
299.
>"It means it's time to move to the massage table." she answers, throwing a towel at your head.
-
300.
-
301.
>Laying facedown, Lotus begins slowly feeling her way around your shoulder.
-
302.
>You have to give her credit, it can't be easy working on a body that is literally alien to this world.
-
303.
>After a little prodding and poking, she settles into a pattern of massage and stretching.
-
304.
>It doesn't feel great, or like it's helping at all, but it does seem like the right thing to do.
-
305.
>It's almost like she knows what she's doing.
-
306.
"So tell me, oh devious one, what visions do /you/ have for the future?"
-
307.
>"...me?"
-
308.
"Yeah, you." you smirk, turning your head to look at her. "I want to kno-ow ow ow!"
-
309.
>"Sorry!" Lotus yelps, releasing your overextended arm.
-
310.
>You lie down, arm hanging by your side, your shoulder throbbing.
-
311.
>"I was so busy thinking about what you asked, I lost focus! I'm sorry!"
-
312.
"Ha, yeah, no biggie." you assure her. "But let's lay off the shoulder for a moment. Maybe just answer my question instead."
-
313.
>"Oh, okay." she says.
-
314.
>A few moments of silence follow, and just as you're about to speak up, you feel Lotus climb onto your back.
-
315.
>"Would it be horrible if I said I don't know?"
-
316.
"Hmmm, of course not." you answer slowly "But it sure doesn't sound the crafty little Lotus that I know."
-
317.
>"I just-I don't know. Sometimes I just want me and my special somepony, with a little house away from everypony else. But I could never leave Aloe, so I don't know, Anon."
-
318.
"That told me a lot, even if it didn't seem like it."
-
319.
>"It did?"
-
320.
"It did."
-
321.
>"You're not going to tell me what you're thinking?"
-
322.
"Nope."
-
323.
>She huffs, and the two of you lay in silence for a while.
-
324.
>The quiet is nice, and after a few seconds together like that your breathing starts to sync.
-
325.
>You feel a pony nuzzle the side of your head.
-
326.
>The softness of these ponies defies logic.
-
327.
>"Anon?"
-
328.
"Yes, Lotus?"
-
329.
>"You mentioned taking me someplace once..."
-
330.
"I remember that. I think we ruled out Canterlot, put Vanhoover in the 'maybe' pile."
-
331.
>"I've never been swimming in the ocean."
-
332.
>You sigh dramatically.
-
333.
"I suppose I can do that."
-
334.
>She says nothing, but you can still hear a barely supressed *squee*.
-
335.
-
336.
>Half an hour later, your therapy session has made no marked improvement.
-
337.
>In fact, you actually feel worse.
-
338.
>Aloe is actually quietly scolding Lotus in the hallway.
-
339.
>You mostly can't hear the details, but sometimes she raises her voice enough to make out a few words.
-
340.
>It's difficult to imagine Aloe angry.
-
341.
>She's always so quiet and cheerful.
-
342.
>Deciding that it would be best to intervene, you begin to dress yourself.
-
343.
>You're pulling your shoes on when Aloe pushes the door open, Lotus close behind her.
-
344.
>If it weren't for the look on Lotus' face, you'd never know that Aloe had been anything less than her usual self a moment ago.
-
345.
>Lotus is clearly upset, but stays silent as Aloe approaches you.
-
346.
>With both shoes on, you start to rise from your chair, but Aloe holds up a hoof to stop you.
-
347.
>Placing her hooves on your legs, she propels herself up onto your lap.
-
348.
>Aloe offers a small smile and leans in close.
-
349.
>"Anon, you know that I love you, right?"
-
350.
"Of course."
-
351.
>"Good. And I'm glad you trust Lotus to take care of you. I hope you trust me too."
-
352.
"Naturally." you chuckle, rubbing the pink pony's back.
-
353.
>Aloe nods, then looks briefly over her shoulder at the sulking Lotus.
-
354.
>"Anonymous, I just want to let you know, that both of you are dumb."
-
355.
-
356.
>En-route to the hospital, you get to hear more about how dumb you are.
-
357.
>How Lotus should have picked up on the fact that you're more than 'just sore' from the game.
-
358.
>How you should have known to ask the medic about your shoulder /at/ the game.
-
359.
>How Lotus should have told Aloe what was going on instead of trying to keep you to herself.
-
360.
>How you should not have played along with her schemes.
-
361.
>How the breakfast, while delicious, was a dead giveaway that something was awry.
-
362.
>On and on she goes.
-
363.
>As she leads the way, you fall in beside Lotus.
-
364.
>Initially, she attempted to rebut Aloe's accusations.
-
365.
>But now she just dejectedly accepts them.
-
366.
>Subtle petting has done nothing to cheer her up.
-
367.
>More drastic measures are clearly needed.
-
368.
>With a swift motion, you scoop Lotus up with your good arm, leaning her against your shoulder.
-
369.
>She settles in, and slowly she stops sniffling.
-
370.
>"Thank you." she whispers, and you can't help but smile a bit.
-
371.
-
372.
>It takes a while, but just as your arm is beginning to wear out you spy Ponyville General.
-
373.
>"Anon? Girls?" a familiar voice calls out from behind you.
-
374.
>Moving in your direction is none other than Roseluck.
-
375.
>Of course, Aloe also turned around, and is now accosting your shins for carrying Lotus.
-
376.
>Aloe's firm but gentle beating moves up your legs as she rears up, now trying to swat her sister (who has wisely pulled her tail up and out of reach).
-
377.
>Rose stops a few feet away and just watches you with an amused expression.
-
378.
"A little help?"
-
379.
>She just shrugs and smiles.
-
380.
>You level your gaze at her, with your best 'are you kidding me?' look.
-
381.
>Her smile grows a little wider.
-
382.
>These ponies.
-
383.
>Ridiculous.
-
384.
"Okay you two, that's enough."
-
385.
>"But Anon-"
-
386.
"Nope." you say, pressing a finger to Aloe's lips as you crouch down.
-
387.
>You release Lotus, who reluctantly returns to her hooves, and lean in to keep Aloe quiet with a kiss.
-
388.
>A long, soft kiss.
-
389.
>With a hand caressing her face.
-
390.
>It's easy and natural to linger a moment on her lips.
-
391.
>When you straighten up, all three mares have a fierce blush on their faces, though Aloe's is certainly more pronounced.
-
392.
>You throw a smirk and a wink in Roseluck's direction, then turn to resume your trek to the hospital.
-
393.
"Y'all coming or not?"
-
394.
-
395.
>After some inane small talk in the waiting room, a nurse leads you into the back.
-
396.
>"Mister Anonymous, I'm Nurse Redheart and I'll be taking care of you today."
-
397.
>You nod, and she goes about the usual rigmarole -height, weight, diet, exercise, etc...
-
398.
>It reminds you that, if you're going to really stay in Ponyville, you should write to your Canterlot doctor and have your files sent down here.
-
399.
>"Okay Mister Anonymous, with that out of the way why don't you tell me why you came in today?"
-
400.
"Simple enough." you reply "Like I said before, I play hoofball, and in the last game I took a hard fall on my left shoulder. Normally I wouldn't worry about it all that much, but it's sore to the point that I can't really use that arm now."
-
401.
>"Oh, I knew I had heard about you somewhere! You're friends with Rainbow Dash, aren't you?"
-
402.
"Guilty as charged." you smile "What's Speedysnooze told you about me?"
-
403.
>"Mostly talking about hoofball. She was really disappointed that you weren't going to be able to play this season, but it seems something changed?"
-
404.
"Yeah, I'm in Ponyville for the long-term, it seems."
-
405.
>"Well welcome back. Now, let's look at that shoulder-"
-
406.
-
407.
>An hour later, Nurse Redheart has put your arm in a sling with the weight supported by your good shoulder.
-
408.
>It was a bit awkward for a while, as she had you take your shirt off and felt you up.
-
409.
>She assured you that it was only to try and understand your alien physiology, of course.
-
410.
>You can only imagine the reactions the others would have had if they had been there.
-
411.
>Rose wouldn't have offered more than a raised eyebrow, but Aloe and Lotus would probably have said something.
-
412.
>Assuming Aloe didn't throw her sister under the bus in front of Nurse Redheart.
-
413.
>Those two have already been a handful, and it's only noon.
-
414.
-
415.
>Several hours later, the day has not gotten any better.
-
416.
>The twins are still at odds.
-
417.
>Roseluck went back to work for a bit.
-
418.
>Rarity was less than amicable about how late you were in picking up your shirt and tie.
-
419.
>Overall a less than stellar afternoon.
-
420.
>But now Aloe and Lotus are at home, getting ready before you all went to the auditorium.
-
421.
>Leaving you alone to get dressed.
-
422.
>And enjoy a Churchill martini.
-
423.
"Pouring a cold glass of gin while looking at a bottle of Vermouth" you say to yourself as you adjust your tie.
-
424.
>Taking the glass in hand you collapse into your favorite chair and raise the glass to your lips.
-
425.
>Drinking deeply, the cold liquor feels as if it is washing the stress out of you.
-
426.
>Staring out the french doors leading to the balcony, you can see a few pegasi crisscrossing the skies over Ponyville.
-
427.
>It is a nice change of pace, to be able to simply let your mind unfocus, and you savor the quiet emptiness of your precious alone time.
-
428.
>But inevitably it must come to an end.
-
429.
>Which it does with the particular patter of hooves on your door that means the purple pony princess is looking for you.
-
430.
"Come in, it's unlocked." you call, unwilling to leave your chair.
-
431.
>You hear the door open and the soft clopping of hooves on carpet as (the pony you assume to be) Twilight trots over to the couch.
-
432.
>Your suspicions are confirmed as your friend carefully lowers herself onto the cushions across from you.
-
433.
>She's wearing a Rarity original after all.
-
434.
>And it would be a mistake to ruffle it right before the concert.
-
435.
>Especially since she's going with Rarity herself.
-
436.
>At first glance you could mistake it for her most recent gala dress, but quickly realize that it is far less ornate and likely much more comfortable.
-
437.
>Practical fashion, really.
-
438.
>"You look lost in thought."
-
439.
"I'm trying very hard not to be."
-
440.
>"So...you're trying to focus on something?"
-
441.
"No, I'm trying to avoid thought."
-
442.
>"That doesn't really make sense."
-
443.
"You've never just needed to just let your mind shut down?"
-
444.
>"Well of course I do. It's called sleeping."
-
445.
>Nodding in agreement, you take a long draught of the now diluted gin.
-
446.
"More sleep probably wouldn't hurt me."
-
447.
>"I know you said you only need six hours, but didn't you tell me that most humans need eight?"
-
448.
"Alright mom, jeeze."
-
449.
>"Hey, I'm just trying to make sure you're okay."
-
450.
"I know, I know." you say, waving it off. "I just get enough of that from Roseluck."
-
451.
>"I should really invite her over sometime."
-
452.
"Or not. I don't need that kind of collusion in my life."
-
453.
>Twilight giggles.
-
454.
>"Oh Anon, you're cute when you're paranoid. Nopony can create more work for you than you do, even if we work together."
-
455.
"I resent that. I take work to pay the bills. It isn't cheap being the only human in Equestria!"
-
456.
>"You resemble it, more like."
-
457.
"Alright, alright." you concede, waving your empty glass to shush her. "I already got this lecture with Rose's family."
-
458.
>Twilight hums in approval.
-
459.
"So how about you, Oh Great Princess of Friendship? I bet all the stallions in Canterlot are a-flutter over you. Any prospects?"
-
460.
>"Anon!"
-
461.
"I mean, c'mon. You're telling me that the mare who tracks down friendship problems all over the country can't track down a nice colt for herself?"
-
462.
>"It isn't that simple..." she grumbles.
-
463.
"Isn't it?"
-
464.
>"No! I mean, it's just- there's a lot of rules about being a princess!"
-
465.
>You straighten up in your chair.
-
466.
"What do you mean?" you ask, cocking your head.
-
467.
>"I mean a princess can't just marry anypony! You think building a herd is complicated, trying arranging a royal marriage! Ugh!"
-
468.
"I told you that you should have found a guy way back when we first became friends." you smirk. "Of course, that was simply because I thought you needed some romance in your life."
-
469.
>Twilight simply glowers at you.
-
470.
"So how does this work? Do you just run ideas past Celly and Luna, or is there a flowchart or something?"
-
471.
>"I mostly ask Princess Celestia...I don't understand all the rules well enough to make a flowchart."
-
472.
"Well Twilight, I think maybe that's something that would help. It would certainly speed up the process."
-
473.
>"It isn't even that. I haven't met anypony worth running through a flowchart."
-
474.
"Really?"
-
475.
>"Well, one, but I already have a hunch that he won't be approved."
-
476.
"Have you asked?"
-
477.
>"N-no..."
-
478.
"Do it." you reply flatly. "You'll never know for sure until you do."
-
479.
>She seems unconvinced.
-
480.
>You'll have to talk to Rares about it.
-
481.
>Twilight will keep avoiding it if no one pushes her along.
-
482.
>And you have too much to do these days to be that person.
-
483.
-
484.
>Eventually the two of you depart the castle together.
-
485.
>You had agreed to drop the coltfriend questions if she would drop the herd questions.
-
486.
>Instead you discussed the seasonal flood/drought cycle in Appleoosa.
-
487.
>Spitballing ideas to better stabilize the river, and talking about the last time Twilight and the girls were down that way.
-
488.
>It was nice, even if it was tangentially work related.
-
489.
>That project was years away if it even happens.
-
490.
>As you near the spa, Twilight mentions Fluttershy's party next weekend.
-
491.
"That reminds me." you inteject "I need to find some time to talk to Cadence. Mano a mano."
-
492.
>"What?"
-
493.
"It's a human expression. I need to speak to her by myself."
-
494.
>"Oh, well they're getting in on Thursday, and the party isn't until Saturday, so you should be able to find some time if you let them know."
-
495.
"Perfect. I was afraid they were only going to get in the day of."
-
496.
>"Anon, did you really think my brother would come to Ponyville and not stay to visit?"
-
497.
"You've done that to him like, a dozen times."
-
498.
>"Hey! Not my fault!"
-
499.
>You lift a brow and cast a sidelong glance at her.
-
500.
>"Okay, mostly not my fault."
-
501.
>...
-
502.
>"Alright! Maybe a few times it was my fault, now stop that!"
-
503.
"I didn't say anything."
-
504.
>"Arrgh."
-
505.
>"Princess Twilight?" Aloe asks from the door "Will you be joining us tonight?"
-
506.
>"Oh! Hello Aloe, Lotus. No, I have my own booth with Rarity and Fluttershy." Twilight explains.
-
507.
>Unlike Twilight, the twins haven't bothered with dresses opting instead for simple white shawls with matching while lilies tucked behind an ear.
-
508.
>You wonder if they always plan to match, or if it's just force of habit for them at this point.
-
509.
"She's walking with us to the Auditorium since, you know, we both live at the castle."
-
510.
>Locking their door behind them, the twins join you and Twilight and the party ventures forth.
-
511.
>Aloe and Lotus take up positions to either side of you.
-
512.
>It's ideal for surreptitious ear scratches.
-
513.
>And also means that they don't have to see each other.
-
514.
>Glad to see that still hasn't resolved itself.
-
515.
>Sighing, you follow Twilight as she leads the way to the venue.
-
516.
-
517.
>The Ponyville Auditorium is a surprisingly well appointed hall.
-
518.
>You hadn't really noticed the last time you were here, simply because the entire time you were here your focus was split between sneaking a note to Lyra and humming the Mission: Impossible Theme.
-
519.
>A plaque on the wall tells you that it's one of the town's most historic buildings.
-
520.
>Which makes sense, this place was probably the most exciting thing in town back then.
-
521.
>"Anon?"
-
522.
>A sharp jab in the side turns your attention from the building to the ponies around you.
-
523.
"Ow! God, what was that for!?"
-
524.
>The offender is a perfect primped marshmallow you happen to know.
-
525.
>"Eyes off the building, mind off work, Anonymous."
-
526.
"I can't help it if I happen to like old buildings."
-
527.
>"You can always come back later." she replies. "Now go take your girls to their seats like a gentlecolt."
-
528.
"I can't yet-oh, nevermind. Roseluck just walked in."
-
529.
>"Mhm! Now off you go!"
-
530.
"Remind me that I need to talk to you about something later. We'll get lunch or something."
-
531.
>"I shan't forget!" she says as she walks off to join Twilight at Fluttershy.
-
532.
>You, in turn, go to meet Rose.
-
533.
>She's wearing a simple green dress.
-
534.
>You don't know if green is her favorite color or what, but you do know that she knows how to wear it.
-
535.
>With a few quick strides you're beside her.
-
536.
>Taking a knee, you plant a chaste kiss on her muzzle before wrapping her in a hug.
-
537.
>"Miss me much?"
-
538.
"Oh it has been horrible." you sigh dramatically.
-
539.
>Rose rolls her eyes as you let her go, taking the time to bump you as she moves further into the lobby.
-
540.
>"Come on, we need to get to our seats."
-
541.
-
542.
>Following Rose, you wave the twins over and hand your tickets to the colt at the doors.
-
543.
>He directs you to a staircase, and you herd the group along.
-
544.
>Upstairs you easily find your booth (the place only has four of them) and quickly drop into a seat.
-
545.
>Two rows of five seats.
-
546.
>You take left of center, front row.
-
547.
>Instantly Lotus is on your left and Aloe on your right.
-
548.
>Looking to Rose for help, she just shakes her head at the sight.
-
549.
>So much for your last best hope.
-
550.
>Ah well, just roll with it.
-
551.
>Your hands are pulled into hooves as the lights dim and the curtain rises.
-
552.
>The conductor walks onstage and give a short speech.
-
553.
>He introduces Octavia -their featured soloist- and gives a short biography of her work, then talks the audience through the set list for the evening.
-
554.
>Aloe and Lotus are each trying to pull you closer to them, though Lotus is at least taking care to be gentle with your bad arm.
-
555.
>Eventually you pull both arms away from them and stretch them across the backs of the seats.
-
556.
>The conductor concludes his speech, turns to the orchestra, and with a flick of his baton the concert begins.
-
557.
-
558.
-
559.
>As the concert rolls along, the two sisters begin their silent squabbling again.
-
560.
>They've both put a hoof on one of your knees, and occasionally one will try to shoo the other away.
-
561.
>Frankly, it's childish and irritating.
-
562.
>Inhaling deeply, you slowly release it.
-
563.
>It's fine, this is why you have a private booth.
-
564.
>Okay, it isn't fine, these two are really getting out of hand, but no one else has to see it at least.
-
565.
>The batting of hooves across your lap continues to pick up tempo as you pointedly fold your hands and lean forward.
-
566.
>Instantly the twins push up against you.
-
567.
>With a grunt, you reflexively pull your bad shoulder away from Lotus, who gently rubs it before settling back in.
-
568.
>This is...actually kind of cozy.
-
569.
>If nothing else, it is an improvement over the little spat they've been having.
-
570.
>Looking over, across Aloe, you see Rose frown just slightly.
-
571.
>You shrug at her, and she shakes her head.
-
572.
>You return your focus to the music.
-
573.
>Damn, you missed an entire piece!
-
574.
>A short piece, but still.
-
575.
>This next one was "Jupiter" from Colt's "Planetary Suite".
-
576.
>One of your favorites.
-
577.
-
578.
>Applauding loudly, you lean back in your chair as the conductor announces a fifteen minute intermission.
-
579.
>Stretching, you rise and excuse yourself to use the restroom.
-
580.
>Three mares is proving too much for you.
-
581.
>Three!
-
582.
>And you're supposed to have seven?
-
583.
>You can't help but feel that maybe, for once, you'll get Candyass to relent.
-
584.
>Quickly brushing that bit of optimism away, you sigh.
-
585.
>Next weekend was that shindig at 'Shy's.
-
586.
>You need to walk into that party prepared.
-
587.
>A list of questions, and instructions for the Elements to find a way for you to meet with the Pink Menace one on one.
-
588.
>You need to ask questions.
-
589.
>Questions like: What the hell were you thinking?
-
590.
>And: Have you lost your goddamn mind?
-
591.
>But, until then, you need to deal with some out of line fillies back at your booth.
-
592.
>Finishing your business, you make a quick stop at the bar for a glass of whiskey on the rocks before you head back upstairs.
-
593.
>Plastic glass in hand you make your way back toward the booth, pausing at the top step as you catch a whispered argument taking place.
-
594.
>You tilt your head to listen as you sip quietly on your bourbon.
-
595.
>"...can't you see you're upsetting Anon?"
-
596.
>That's Aloe, probably.
-
597.
>"Me!? You're the one who...."
-
598.
>Yeah, because that was definitely Lotus.
-
599.
>"...start this, but I won't...." Aloe mumbles.
-
600.
>"...both of you are behaving..."
-
601.
>Ah, Rose is there. Good.
-
602.
>"...just because you were first..."
-
603.
>"...not the alpha yet!" Lotus spits.
-
604.
>Before anything gets too heated, you down the rest of your drink and take the final steps out into the open, tossing the cup neatly into a bin as you pass.
-
605.
>The three of them immediately fall silent as they watch your approach.
-
606.
>Taking off your coat as you step back into the theatre area, you drop into a corner seat and pointedly toss the suit coat onto the seat next to you.
-
607.
>After a moment, you hear more hushed bickering.
-
608.
>Finally Roseluck enters, sliding into the second row, finding the seat directly behind you.
-
609.
>Eventually the end of the intermission quells the quiet quarrel and two rather miffed mares return to the booth, quite pointedly not looking at each other.
-
610.
>Your eyes roll at the idea that you are the cause of this and will likely have to be the solution to it as well.
-
611.
>It occurs to you that in your irritation you failed to actually address the issues, but as the curtain rises you remind yourself that you aren't here for them.
-
612.
>You're here for Lyra.
-
613.
>Leaning forward, you intertwine your fingers and focus your attention on the stage.
-
614.
>With a flick of the baton the orchestra comes to attention.
-
615.
>And with a wave he launches them into a collection of folk songs featuring Octavia on a wide variety of string instruments.
-
616.
>Closing your eyes helps you to really appreciate the quiet complexity of the orchestra supporting a seemingly simple solo melody.
-
617.
>The music conjures images of the countryside, and ode to a way of life oft overlooked as ponies increasingly move to the cities and newly formed suburbs.
-
618.
>It is as if the composer spent a summer writing this collection while renting a room from the Apple Family.
-
619.
>But, unmerited nostalgia for rural life aside, you pay particular attention to this song because it really brings the lyre to life.
-
620.
>More than once Lyra is among only a handful of ponies playing.
-
621.
>You had always assumed that the Lyre was a plucked instrument -a one note at a time sort of affair- but this piece has Lyra strumming away as if it was a guitar.
-
622.
>A learning experience.
-
623.
>It's a surprisingly up-tempo piece, and sadly it races along to its conclusion all too quickly.
-
624.
>For the next several pieces, Octavia leaves the stage and Lyra returns to being merely one part of a large ensemble.
-
625.
>You find yourself surreptitiously checking on the others.
-
626.
>It's impossible to tell how Rose is doing since she is directly behind you.
-
627.
>But the other two are off to the side, and you can see them both easily enough.
-
628.
>Aloe is focused intently on the orchestra, the corners of her mouth pulled into a subtle frown and her ears twitch irritably every few seconds.
-
629.
>Lotus is less focused on the music and more on the ground.
-
630.
>The orchestra winds down its second to last song, and you quietly stand up.
-
631.
>Putting your jacket back on, you take its place with your arms stretched out across the backs of the two seats to either side of you.
-
632.
>Having gained the attention of both Aloe and Lotus, you wave them over, and they eventually move to join you.
-
633.
>Octavia returns to the stage for the closing song, an arrangement of Nessun Dorma.
-
634.
>You drape first one arm, and then another, across the backs of your companions.
-
635.
>It doesn't take much effort to pull them against you.
-
636.
>Lotus is sniffling again, but then again, this song makes you a little teary-eyed too.
-
637.
>You close your eyes and tilt your head back to focus on the serenading strings of Octavia's cello far below onstage.
-
638.
>It isn't a very long song, and soon it comes to a close.
-
639.
>The curtain drops momentarily as you reclaim your arms to join in the applause.
-
640.
>When the curtain rises again, the conductor dismisses the orchestra section by section, allowing for them to take their bows.
-
641.
>As Lyra rises, so do you.
-
642.
>And when she leaves stage you drop back into your seat.
-
643.
-
644.
>The crowds below are dispersing
-
645.
>The lights are back up
-
646.
>The curtain is closed
-
647.
>But you are still in your seat
-
648.
>Aside from the two apologetic mares in your arms, there's Roseluck behind you still that you'd like to talk to.
-
649.
>And, of course, you told Lyra to meet you here after the concert.
-
650.
>Aloe has already offered a whispered apology.
-
651.
>Lotus isn't quite that composed yet.
-
652.
"Aloe, can you give me a moment with Lotus?"
-
653.
>"Oh. Yes, I'll just-"
-
654.
"Just scoot over a seat or two. You don't have to leave."
-
655.
>As Aloe moves, you turn to Lotus.
-
656.
"Lotus."
-
657.
>Nothing.
-
658.
"Lotus, look at me."
-
659.
>Nothing.
-
660.
>Setting your hand beneath her chin, you lift her gaze to meet yours.
-
661.
"Lotus. I'm over it, okay?"
-
662.
>She nods.
-
663.
"You want to prove that you're sorry?"
-
664.
>Another nod.
-
665.
"Go make up with Aloe."
-
666.
>Lotus hangs her head, but she does get to her hooves...slowly.
-
667.
"Oh, and Lotus?"
-
668.
>She looks over at you.
-
669.
"It's her fault too. And she knows it." you assure her.
-
670.
>Planting a kiss on her forehead you send her to go talk to her sister.
-
671.
>Heaving a small sigh of relief, you maneuver around the seats to join Rose a row back.
-
672.
"Hey princess."
-
673.
>"And here I thought you forgot about me."
-
674.
"Never. I just know you can handle not having me hold your hoof at all times."
-
675.
>"I still like it once in a while."
-
676.
"And that's why I'm here now."
-
677.
>"I suppose I can forgive you."
-
678.
"Love you too."
-
679.
-
680.
>Wrapping an arm around Roseluck, the two of you watch the twins have a hushed conversation.
-
681.
>Both of them are clearly upset.
-
682.
>Hopefully with themselves as well as each other.
-
683.
>You have great faith in their bond as sisters.
-
684.
>They'll make up, they have to.
-
685.
>Right?
-
686.
"You've never held a grudge against your sisters...have you?"
-
687.
>"Maybe for a few days at most."
-
688.
"Unfortunate."
-
689.
>"This is a little thing." Rose assures you, letting out a tiny yawn. "They'll be fine."
-
690.
>You hope so.
-
691.
>The last thing you need is for those two to go after each other because of you.
-
692.
-
693.
>Eventually the two sisters share a hug and make their way over to you and Rose.
-
694.
>Assessing the seating arrangements, you quickly scoop up Rose with your good arm and set her in your lap.
-
695.
>"Anon!" she whines "We're in public!"
-
696.
"No one is here to see." you shush her, pulling her against you.
-
697.
>The twins quickly hop into the seats to either side.
-
698.
>Hooves hold your arms to the seat, they stand to either side of you.
-
699.
>Lotus speaks first.
-
700.
>"I'm sorry, Anon. I wasn't thinking and I could have really hurt you! We all know how much you enjoy hoofball, and I would have felt terrible if i ruined that for you..."
-
701.
"But you didn't, so-"
-
702.
>"But she could have." Aloe interjects. "And she's sorry. And I'm sorry too."
-
703.
>The pink mare affectionately nuzzles the side of your head.
-
704.
>"I was so worried about you that I started a fight with Lotus, and then that fight distracted you through the whole concert."
-
705.
>"Not all of it." Rose offers.
-
706.
>"Still, we were rude to Anon." Aloe insists.
-
707.
>"And we're sorry." Lotus agrees.
-
708.
>Closing your eyes, you bury your face in Rose's mane for a moment.
-
709.
>Carefully you think about what to say.
-
710.
>You nod to yourself, as you lift your head.
-
711.
"Alright you two. You're forgiven this time." you reply, earning a smile from them. "But! But tomorrow I expect you both to apologize to Lyra. I came here for her, and instead I spent quite a bit of time dealing with the two of you."
-
712.
>"O-oh. We hadn't really considered that..." Lotus mumbles.
-
713.
>"Yes...tomorrow we will find her and apologize."
-
714.
>Carefully letting go of Rose, you gingerly wrap your arms around the twins and give them a light squeeze.
-
715.
"You girls drive me nuts sometimes, you know that?"
-
716.
>Leaning your head back you release a sigh.
-
717.
"But I love you anyways."
by Hawkeye
by Hawkeye
by Hawkeye
by Hawkeye
by Hawkeye