Does Love Come With Harmony?

Cloppity clop-clop, cloppity clop-clop, cloppity clop-clop, cloppity clop-clop
Ponies, ponies, ponies, ponies, bop, diddy, boop, bop
Friendship is magic! Friendship is magic!
Fluttershy, would like to be a tree, Rainbow Dash, not a bumblebee, Pinkie Pie Pie Pie
Rarity, a unicorn doodily doo, Applejack doodily doodily doo, Twilight Sparkle

EQUESTRIAN SHIPPING SHORT STORY 01: FLUTTERPIE/PINKIESHY

"So, are you enjoying the party, are you, huh, are you, are you?" Pinkie asked quite fervently, but Fluttershy was a little intimidated by the exuberance.

   "It's very lovely," she said and sipped from her goblet. "I just can't help but feel bad for Rainbow Dash."

   "Yeah, who wouldn't be upset if they found out one of their oldest friends was a big mean Miss Meanie Mean?"

   The day had begun with Pinkie deciding to have a blast like the one before it and the one before that, but Rainbow Dash had not been in the mood. She had spent all her time with that griffon Gilda, and then it turned out that she was nothing but a big bully!

   Things had been otherwise very frightening with the whole Nightmare Moon deal, but having vanquished her and gotten Twilight to stay had made the days seem more... adventurous. Pinkie did carry on as usual, but she found she had a deeper relationship with other ponies now. It's not that Pinkie had ever been alone as everypony in Ponyville was her friend, but she had never quite had the kind of friends she had now. She had quickly learnt that there were others out there who also shared some of her interests. The cool and rather lazy Pegasus Rainbow Dash, with her colourful mane, had turned out to be as mischievous as her, if not more.

   Going around in Ponyville and playing all these pranks on others had been one of her most entertaining days, but she had also realised she needed to set some boundaries for herself. She usually only figured that after the fact which on more occasions than one had landed her in trouble. That's why she liked to party so much, to cheer up herself and others. Nothing worse than being bored or sad or lonely. A good party with festive colours and balloons and as many ponies as possible, that was the way to do it. Yet Pinkie was beginning to feel something different, something she couldn't explain.

   This timid, yellow Pegasus with butterflies on her flank made Pinkie stop up and think, something she wasn't used to. She felt like being extra careful around her, like she wouldn't want Fluttershy to think badly about her. Why could that be? Pinkie always rushed into these kinds of things without thinking, but now she was catching herself. Just yesterday, Rainbow Dash had been seconds away from pranking Fluttershy with a faux turtle that would have squirted her in the face if not for Pinkie's intervention.

   She gave Fluttershy a big warm smile and was repaid with a somewhat weaker one accompanied by a little squeak. Was she coming on too strong?

   "Uhm, perhaps I should go check on Rainbow Dash, see if she needs me."

   "Okey dokey lokey," Pinkie said and hopped away to mingle again.

   Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy knew each other from far back, so was there perhaps anything between them? She cast a glance behind her and saw the two talking, but she could only see care in Fluttershy's eyes. Such a gentle and kind soul. It's not like Pinkie Pie didn't care that Gilda had just turned her back like that, she just had a different way of doing things.

   "Great party ya got here," Applejack said with her mouth full of cake.

   "Of course, it's a fully licensed original copyright trademarked Pinkie Pie Party!" Pinkie replied.

   Good thing the Cakes had a backroom that was relatively cut off from the store itself so her parties wouldn't disturb the shop. It even had a back entrance so the store wouldn't be flooded with ponies. She cast a last glimpse over her shoulder before deciding to give the party it all.

***

She shouldn't be here. All things frightening and scary always unnerved her terribly, and the prospect of facing a big mean dragon just didn't sit right with her. Fluttershy followed behind her newest friends, but she was too scared to even unfold her wings, let alone fly. Dragons were big, powerful, grumpy and.... mean! There were no other words to describe them, they were simply mean. Not like Rainbow Dash's old friend, much, much worse! So why were they dragging her with them? It's not like they were going to use the elements on it. Dragons might be mean, but perhaps he just wasn't conscious about his destructive smoky breath?

   If she could just calm her nerves everything would be better, but that mysterious pink pony kept prancing around and rattling her. She knew of Pinkie Pie, of course, everyone in Ponyville did. One of the first things she had learnt upon settling in town was her uncanny way to make every day seem like your last. Fluttershy had always tried to avoid her and her parties, both being way too loud and active for her.

   She hadn't had many friends, if any, before Twilight came to town. Their experiences in the forest had really brought them together, so she couldn't help but think... was is it the magic of the elements that united them like this? For better or worse, these five ponies actually considered her a close friend and especially Rarity had really gotten her out of her shell, even though she spend most of their time together talking about herself. But Fluttershy didn't mind, she was just glad to be invited out.

   A loud snore suddenly sent chills throughout her body and she did was she did best: found safety, this time behind Applejack.

   "Whoa. What was that?" Rainbow Dash asked.

   "That is what it sounds like when a dragon snores," Twilight said matter-of-factly, and Fluttershy peeked up at the mountain.

   "I-it's so... high!" she said meekly.

   "Well, it IS a mountain," Rainbow Dash and proceeded to fly up the side to do some scouting, but was halted by Applejack.

   The rest of the trip didn't go any easier despite her attempts to get out of this adventure. And what's worse, her constant attacks of panic only served to get on everyone's nerves. First, she couldn't scale the mountain and had to be escorted by Applejack the long way. She was useless and a coward and couldn't even jump a small chasm. Rainbow Dash in particular was right, she should just stay home.

   "There's nothing to be afraid of. It's just a hop, skip and a jump. See?"

   Why would Pinkie Pie try to encourage her like that? All the others had given up on her, but that smile from this pink party pony actually made her feel better. If she wasn't so nervous, she might even return the smile. A hop, skip and a jump, eh? Well, she tried at least, but forgot to jump at the very last moment. The pressure she felt on her just got to her sometimes. She was much more comfortable back in her cottage along with all her animal friends. And it wasn't like it went any better from there.

   The worst of it all was when she gave out a loud scream that caused an avalanche. She could have gotten them all killed, but Twilight insisted that she stayed with the group. What was she thinking, dragging this nervous wreck along with them?

   And it's not like things got any better when they actually reached the cave. It took some convincing and a lot of pushing to actually make her come all the way. They were all counting on her, they all wanted her advice. Yes, she knew a lot about animals, but she had tried all her life to stay as far away from dragons as possible. It hurt her, the way that they were all counting on to do her thing, but there was nothing she could do. This was a big scary dragon after all!

   "So, get in there with Twilight and show her what yer made of," Applejack said, but tears were starting to roll down her cheeks.

   "I..." she stammered and looked at them. "I..." They all looked at her encouragingly. "I just... can't," she finally said and turned her back.

   She had done it now. Hopefully they would be understanding and leave her alone from now on. Surely there were no way any of them wanted to be her friend after this?

   It was then she reached the edge and realised how high up they were. She gave a fearful gasp and backed away again, but all her friends were dealing with the monster now. She couldn't let them see her and she couldn't go down... she found a rock to hide behind and cowered, shaking, hoping that it would all end then and there. The dragon would quietly agree to leave them alone and they could go down again and forget about this whole thing.

   But it didn't go that way. One after the other, the ponies tried and failed. From her hiding place, she heard how they struggled and failed, but perhaps if they tried again, they would succeed? Everything would be all right as long as she didn't interfere and muck everything up. She would just sit here and hope for the best.

   But she was not allowed much respite. She felt the stone collapse and her rump exposed. The shock made her forget how scared she was and she decided to take a peek over the stone. She saw all her friends lying in a heap, dazed and wounded, and the big dragon was coming out of its cave, roaring and snorting. She was about to slowly back away, but seeing even the always happy Pinkie in such a state... it was too much. Her heart broke a little. She couldn't stand it. She had not interfered out of fear of messing everything up, but now she had messed everything up by not interfering. She felt empowered. She could no longer stand back idly.

   "How dare you? How dare you!" she exclaimed. She furiously spread her wings and flew up to face the dragon, a colossal red reptile. "Listen here, mister. Just because you're big doesn't mean you get to be a bully. You may have huge teeth and sharp scales and snore smoke and breathe fire, but you do not, I repeat, you do NOT! HURT! MY! FRIENDS!"

   It was thanks to Fluttershy's courage that they managed to resolve the dragon problem, but she wasn't sure where she got the strength. She felt herself flush with anger, but was it all because of her friends? Or was there something more?

***

Pinkie Pie was excited. This was nothing unusual, this pony seldom had moments without some sort of activity, but today was a very special day with a very special reason for being excited. She hadn't taken any opportunities to talk with Fluttershy alone yet, but today would be different! She had arranged for everything, and it would be perfect. They would spend the day together and she would show Fluttershy how much fun she could be. They would go on a balloon ride over Equestria and talk about silly things and laugh till their tummy hurts. Perhaps she should put on a show first and bust out all her moves? Perhaps start with something a little quieter and just sit around in the shop and have some cake? There were so many wonderful things they could do and once they were done, she could tell Fluttershy how she felt. Today would be a great day.

   She was tripping around impatiently outside the shop where she lived and worked. Maybe she should have gone to her hut instead, but it would also be good to get her out of her everyday surroundings. Hopefully it wouldn't deter her too much. At least now she had the opportunity to go through all the plans she had made. It never hurt to be well-prepared, but maybe she had thought of too many things? They couldn't possibly do all these at once. Oh well, Flutters was here... running it seemed?

   She wasn't alone either. Applejack was there as well, with Apple Bloom perched on her back. What was going on?

   "It's her!" Applejack said.

   "Who?" Pinkie asked.

   "Zecora," Apple Bloom said.

   "Ah've told ya not ta say her name aloud," Applejack corrected.

   Oh no, of all the things that could go wrong! This was an emergency and all the things she had planned with Fluttershy just had to be postponed. Pinkie quickly urged her friends inside and was soon joined by Rarity and Rainbow Dash as well. They turned off the lights in the shop and quietly awaited the time when... she would go away. Pinkie completely forgot what a glorious day this would have been and scouted the streets for any signs of the evil enchantress.

   The last of her five friends still wasn't here, in fact, Twilight was just then walking down the street. Against all hope, she had decided to wander outside today.

   "Psst! Twilight! Spike! Come here! Come! Here! HURRY! Before she gets you!" Pinkie whispered as loud as she could from the doorway.

***

It was later that day and everything seemed all right now. It was still early and the weather was fine and she remembered the plans she had made with Fluttershy. While the other ponies went on their own business, Pinkie Pie took the opportunity and approached Fluttershy. The threats Zecora had made seemed so far away, at least to her.

   "Hey Fluttershy, you haven't forgotten about out appointment, have you?" Pinkie asked and smiled, but Fluttershy looked away timidly.

   "I don't want to be rude, I know you must have planned a whole lot, but I don't feel in the mood anymore."

   "Oh," Pinkie said a little crestfallen, but she quickly perked up again. "I understand, but you shouldn't take that threat seriously! You don't have to worry about her at all, silly."

   "Perhaps some other time?" Fluttershy asked and smiled weakly in an attempt to patch things over.

   "Of course! Do you want me to follow you home?"

   "Well uhm... I-I guess that would okay."

   Pinkie gave Fluttershy a pleased look and a big bright smile. She would win this pony over no matter what it took. She had thought for sure that today would be ruined, but maybe not? There was no way she could put any more pressure on Fluttershy than what she must be feeling already, so no declarations today, but that didn't mean she couldn't try and get a day out of it still. She engaged Fluttershy in conversation, hoping to get to know her better.

   "So, what do you do for fun?" Pinkie asked her newest friend.

   It might have been a good idea to know this before planning a day together, but Pinkie was known for acting impulsively. She skipped ahead with Fluttershy walking quietly beside her.

   "Oh, I like to do all kinds of things!" she replied and did her best to act cheerful. "I like, uhm... animals, you know, but I also enjoy singing, I'm good at sewing and I can cook a little."

   "Those are all things you're good at, silly! What things do you like to do for fun? I bet you like to take naps in the forest with all the animals, but that doesn't sound like fun at all, more like relaxing. How about reading, do you enjoy reading? I enjoy reading, but mostly cook books, you know, I love to look at all the pictures of delicious treats and then make them"

   "Well, uhm... actually," Fluttershy asked, trying to get a say in the conversation, but Pinkie was unfortunately rambling again.

   "You don't fly too well either, do you? I mean, you look graceful and all, but a pegasus that can't fly, what's up with that? Wouldn't that be like a unicorn who couldn't do magic or an earth pony who couldn't... what can earth ponies do by the way? I mean, we have tails, but all other ponies have that as well."

   "Pinkie," Fluttershy said, trying her best to be assertive, but the flood of words streaming from the pink pony was almost overpowering.

   "I wonder if our special talent is growing and making food? After all, that's what it says in the tales of Hearth's Warming Eve and I do see a lot of earth ponies that grow and make food, more than I see unicorns and pegasuses... or is that pegasi? I've always wondered, I mean, pegasi sounds like it could be right, but it might be like octopuses which is the correct standard as opposed to WAAAAH."

   "I tried to warn you," Fluttershy said and flapped her wings.

   As they had been walking, a trench had appeared in the middle of town, a large groove filled with water. Pinkie had been too busy talking and walking, tossing her head every which way as her conversation shifted from one topic to another. Fluttershy felt mortified not having been able to warn her, but she had tried! Pinkie emerged and spat out a jet of water and giggled.

   "Guess that's what I get for going on like that," she said and grinned sheepishly. "Hold on."

   Fluttershy flew past the trench to the other site and waited for Pinkie, who appeared again over the edge, pink hooves first dragging her drizzling, wet body up on dry land. For a moment, it seemed that time slowed down and Pinkie was moving in stereo. Her wet, pink coat glistened in the sun as the water slowly dripped from her mane and tail. She tossed her head from side to side and freed her mane in a cascade of droplets as she moved towards Fluttershy. The yellow pegasus blushed significantly and her wings spread out at the sight. What the Hell was she just feeling now?

   "Are you all right? Is it a little warm?" Pinkie asked.

   "You can say that," Fluttershy replied and looked away, trying to get her rebellious wings under control. "My hut is nearest by," Fluttershy said and bit her lip, trying to get this scene out of her head. "Why don't you come in with me and get yourself dried up?"

   "But... Sugarcube Corner is just over there," Pinkie said and pointed to the confectionary just down the street.

   "Oh.. so it is! Still, I just feel a little terrified. You wouldn't mind coming back with me?"

   Pinkie shook her head fervently and skipped along merrily again; unaware of the disturbing feelings she had awakened in Fluttershy. The meek pegasus managed to get her appendages under control, but she was avoiding eye contact with anyone, ashamed that she could think such things about one of her friends.

***

Pinkie had finally managed to plan a big event for Fluttershy. It had taken her several days to get everything in order, but nothing could be left for chance when it came to such an important announcement. She would confess her love for Fluttershy! They had been talking a lot lately, and the two had grown quite close, if not inseparable. They were both developing feelings for each other that went deeper than friendship, but would they be able to convey them? And could they change their perspective of mutual love?

   Fluttershy approached the stage nervously; after all, Pinkie Pie had invited her to come to Ponyville Theatre and Concert Hall. It was dark, but she could see well enough to notice she was alone here. Was this supposed to be practise for a play Pinkie was going to perform in? She only knew that Pinkie wanted to see her here for whatever reason.

   She thought back on all the things they had been doing together. She never knew Pinkie could relax like that and just enjoy some company, talking and laughing all day with a nice cup of tea and some biscuits. It was true she was still struggling with her feelings for the purple earth pony, but she wouldn't want their friendship sacrificed over it. They were the wielders of the elements; their friendship was fated. So Fluttershy took her place all the way up front, enjoying at least her ability to do that for once. No one to push her back or tell her to get back in line.

    Almost as on cue, the curtains raised and light went on to reveal the stage, where Pinkie stood on her hind legs with a guitar. Rainbow Dash was there as well, of course with sunglasses on, playing on drums, along with two other ponies she knew only of reputation. A grey pony with a bowtie equipped with a bass and a mint green pony with a lyre on her flanks equipped with a guitar... Octavia and Lyra perhaps? What was Pinkie thinking? Octavia, if that was her, was a well-known musician. Hiring her could not be cheap. But Fluttershy did not have much time to worry, as the music began.

   "Mmm yeah," Pinkie said. "Do, do, do," the others said.

   "Tonight I wanna give it all to you; in the darkness, there's so much I wanna do
And tonight I wanna lay it at your feet, 'cause girl, I was made for you and girl, you were made for me
I was made for lovin' you baby, you were made for lovin' me
And I can't get enough of you baby, can you get enough of me?" Pinkie sang with all of her heart.

   Fluttershy knew she was fond of singing and that she had a pretty voice, but she couldn't help bob her head to the rhythm. The style of music was on the verge of what she could enjoy, and she probably wouldn't pursue something like this on her own, but hearing Pinkie sing this with all these people was fascinating.

   She didn't know at first why Pinkie would perform a song like this, with such well-known talents, for an empty audience, empty except for Fluttershy. She opened her eyes and looked up at the stage and she caught Pinkie's eyes. For a moment, they were all alone in the universe. Her little heart couldn't help but beat faster and she felt herself blush, but it was such an extraordinary feeling; she couldn't keep it in check.

   Pinkie's hips swinging back and forth as she caressed her instrument was hypnotising. The sweat pouring out over her physically active body and from the spotlights glistened and made her already unruly hair go absolutely wild. Fluttershy began to listen with her eyes as well, and saw in that moment that Pinkie wasn't singing "And I can't get enough of you baby, can you get enough of me?" .... she was asking.

   It was too much to bear for Fluttershy. Reality came crashing in. She was in love with another mare, and Pinkie Pie of all ponies. She started to back away, first slowly, then turned around and ran away completely. She couldn't even hear Pinkie call after her, it was all just too much to absorb. Stupid sexy Pinkie.

    "Hold it! Guys, enough," Pinkie said and the stage fell quiet as well.

   Everyone else had been too absorbed with playing and hadn't even noticed that Fluttershy had left. Rainbow Dash pushed her sunglasses up and took a look around, while Octavia gave an annoyed look at being interrupted in the middle of a song. Lyra simple stood, puzzled, and fell down on all four again. It was strenuous for a pony to keep up on only two.

   "Hmm, you think I came on too strong, Gummy?" Pinkie asked, directed at not the musicians around her, but the small, toothless alligator lodged to her tail.

   She knew how much Gummy loved to hear her sing and she couldn't just leave him at home if she was up here among all these musical ponies. Gummy, as usual, didn't respond, but did blink with a slight delay between eyelids.

   "I don't understand, Lyra. You told me this song would work," Pinkie said to the mint green pony on guitar.

   "It should. It's really popular among h... ponies," Lyra answered.

   "Listen, if the gig is up, perhaps I can go home now?" Octavia asked.

   "No way, you promised me a whole song! What do you say, Dashie? Funk #49?" Pinkie asked the blue pegasus.

   "You got it," Rainbow Dash said and put on her sunglasses again. Octavia rolled her eyes and took the guitar up again.

***

A few weeks later, on a train bound for Ponyville from Appleloosa.

   "I heard you were worried about me," Pinkie said teasingly.

   Fluttershy looked away, her blushing betraying the conflicting feelings in her. She had hoped Pinkie wouldn't find her in her own little compartment on the train, but she should have known by now there was no hiding from that pony.

   "Of course I was worried about you, and Rainbow Dash and Spike too. We didn't know what those buffalos were up to at the time."

   Pinkie entered completely and took a seat opposite Fluttershy. "I hear you were especially worried about me. After all, you were the only to pounce me when we reunited."

   "I-I didn't pounce you! I was just so happy to see you all alive and well, that's all."

   "You like me, don't you, Fluttershy?"

   "Of course I like you, Pinkie, we all do," Fluttershy said and tried to be assertive instead. "But what makes you think I like you more than anyone else?"

   "This?" Pinkie said and rubbed her cheek up against Fluttershy's.

   The yellow pegasus almost instantly assumed a pink hue with brightly red flushed cheeks. She closed her eyes and tried to think unsexy thoughts, but Spike in a bikini slowly morphed into Pinkie who blew her a kiss. As with all pegasuses, Fluttershy was unable to control her wings during moments of excitement. She tried her best to keep them to her side, but those little rebels instantly spread out and Pinkie got what she came for. Fluttershy drew away in shame and tried not to look at Pinkie.

   "See? I knew it! .... Fluttershy"

   Pinkie could not see it, but her timid pony friend sobbed quietly and sniffed. "Oh Fluttershy, I'm sorry, I didn't mean to -"

   "I... I," Fluttershy stammered.

   "Hmm?"

   "I…" Fluttershy bit her lip and closed her eyes. She inhaled deeply to get her courage. "I LOVE YOU PINKAMENA DIANE PIE!" she blurted out, almost too quickly for anyone to understand.

   "Wha-?"

   "I love you, Pinkie, all right? There, I said it, are you happy?" Fluttershy said with tears still trickling down her hot cheeks.

   Pinkie proceeded to give her a big hug, and her mane dried up Fluttershy's wet face. She closed her eyes, not wanting to believe Pinkie could love her back, but all the signs, the song, it had to be real somehow.

   "I love you too, Fluttershy, more than words can describe."

   "Stupid. Stupid, stupid," Fluttershy said and pounded her hooves against Pinkie's chest. "I'm just an awkward, clumsy pegasus who can't even fly straight."

   "You're the most beautiful pony I know of. I knew from the moment I saw you that I only wanted more of you," Pinkie replied.

    "Do you really mean all that?" Fluttershy asked and dried her eyes with her hoof.

   "Of course I do, silly." Pinkie gave her a big smile and Fluttershy cheered up again.

   They looked at each other wordlessly for what seemed like an eternity, lost in each other's eyes. Fluttershy looked away with a coy little smile, before closing her eyes. Pinkie giggled and the two locked their lips as a sign that they would never part again.

   "Well now, this was about time," Rarity said.

   Without any of them noticing, their white fashion friend had sneaked inside their compartment just at the right moment.

   "Rarity! Uhm, it's not what it looks like…" Fluttershy said.

   "Yes it is," Pinkie quipped.

   "I sure hope it is. You two have been walking around each other like mice around hot porridge."

   "What's going on in here?" Rainbow Dash asked and barged in as well. Apparently Applejack had been trying to keep the blue pegasus away and failed.

   "Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy have found each other, ya featherbrain," Applejack replied. Rainbow Dash gave her a nonplussed look and a simple "Oh."

   "What, Pinkie and Fluttershy?" Twilight asked. "When did that happen?"

   "Just now," Pinkie replied.

   "Please everyone, don't make such a fuss about it," Fluttershy said and blushed again, but she was unable to keep her happiness down.

   "Don't worry, sugar cube, no fuss will be made, but Ah reckon a little congrats is in order," Applejack said and smiled approvingly.

   "Yeah, good job nailing her, Fluttershy!" Rainbow Dash.

   "Rainbow Dash!" Rarity exclaimed, horrified. "No one has nailed anyone here. Two ponies in love have simply found each other and for that we should be happy on their behalves."

   "What?" Twilight asked.

   The entrance was already full as she was last to arrive. She had trouble understanding or even seeing what was going on. Spike was sitting astride her back, however.

   "Flutterpie," he simply said.

   "Awww," Twilight said. "I didn't even know mares could love each other?"

   "Must I explain everything to you uninformed ponies? Love is a beautiful thing and can happen between even close friends, yes, even ponies that thought they were enemies can experience it. It happens when you look a stranger in the eye, as you stand on the street or look out of your window," Rarity said.

   "Wow, Rarity, you certainly know your stuff!" Twilight said.

   "Why yes of course, darling, it happens to me all the time! It's almost sad to turn all those admirers away, but that's beauty for you."

   "Uhm, if isn't too much trouble," Fluttershy said, but Pinkie finished her sentence.

   "We have some things we'd like to catch up on."

   "Go on," Rainbow Dash said, her wings fully erect.

   "She meant alone," Rarity said and pushed the other ponies out. "You two take as much time as you need."

   Rarity closed the door, and Fluttershy and Pinkie were alone again. Fluttershy in particular was nervous and excited at the same time and fidgeted with her hooves, but Pinkie kissed her again to calm down.

   "Calm down, Flutters, it's just you and I alone again."

   "I guess that's what makes me so nervous. I just don't know what to do!"

   "We can just do whatever! Ooh, I still have some pie with me, would you like some?"

   Fluttershy was just about to ask where Pinkie kept her pie, when she pulled it out of seemingly thin air, complete with tray and treat and crumbles and everything. Fluttershy couldn't help but giggle.

   "You see, Fluttershy! There's no right or wrong about being in a relationship; it's all about having fun and enjoying yourself, which I guess makes it a lot like a party and I love parties!"

   Fluttershy accepted the pie with a smile. This was going to be an adventure like nothing she had ever tried and she would be rewarded with the greatest and most thrilling sensation in the pit of her stomach. At times it would surge to heights where she felt like doing nothing but dance and sing, and at times ebb and feel like just staying inside all day. Whatever would come, Pinkie would be there for her.

***

Ponyville had been peaceful during the last few months. Sure, they had had a visit from the princess and the whole affair with her bird and Pinkie went over the deep end and they had gone to the gala and then there was the whole Nightmare Night, but things had, all in all, been peaceful. Fluttershy tended to her garden and fed the animals and hummed a little song as she went about her business. Pinkie Pie came over from time to time, often directly from work, with leftover treats from the shop and to help out. Her enthusiasm had a tendency to drive the animals away, but Fluttershy had decided to be patient. This was something she wanted with all her heart. You could say Fluttershy was pretty damn satisfied, but that was all about to change.

   It was shortly after their Mare Do Well pranks on Rainbow Dash that she was to discover something that would question her relationship with Pinkie, and the day had started out so simple too. She was just enjoying her stroll through town to pick up supplies for her woodland friends. Many other ponies were out enjoying the weather, and she saw many other couples as well. She was stupidly in love and everything seemed much nicer.

   "I'm just saying a kid would be nice."

   "And I've told you we can't afford that with our wages!"

   "Is that all you think of?"

   Fluttershy didn't intend to eavesdrop as she made her purchases in the market, but the couple was talking rather loudly and her interest had already been piqued. She dropped her bit and took the bundle of celery stalks and decided to see where the conversation was coming from.

   "You know that's not true, darling."

   "Perhaps you don't love me at all? Is that it?"

   "What? No! Where did that come from?"

   "Kids are supposed to be ultimate proof of two ponies' togetherness."

   She found them sitting in front of an ice cream parlour not far from the market. They were starting to attract a small crowd of whispers and stares. The stallion could see this and was starting to get nervous about concluding the conversation.

   "Look, if it means that much to you, sure. For you, I would do anything. I'll... I'll find another job or perhaps one more."

   "Oh, Cloud Chaser. I knew you loved me all along!"

   The mare snuggled up against the stallion who was visibly regretting caving in. He forced a smile and the crowd started dissipating again. Fluttershy had only passed by and probably not heard everything, but she was still left wondering. She had dated Pinkie for a few months... were they supposed to take it to the next step soon? Or should they have done it already? There were so many things she didn't know about dating... perhaps Pinkie didn't like her anymore and she didn't want to do it with her? But what was she supposed to do? She couldn't consult Rarity, her duties had called her to Canterlot, but who else among her friends could she ask?

   She forgot all about the rest of her shopping and paced around Ponyville nervously. Rainbow Dash was always so secure and quick to act; she would know what to do for sure! At least, that's what she concluded as she looked up at the clouds. There was a good chance that pegasus would be sleeping somewhere, like on a cloud or a branch. Either that or she could just look for a rainbow-coloured streak.

   She bit her lip in dread and looked to the ground. She was afraid of asking, but she had to know. She steeled herself and walked determinedly, looking left and right. All the ponies looked similar if you stared into the crowd long enough, but Rainbow Dash was the only one with a mane of rainbow. But in the end, it was her that was found, not the other way around.

   "Hey Fluttershy, what's up? You look nervous?"

   She looked up and saw Rainbow Dash perched on a small cloud directly above her. "Well, yes... uhm... there's something I would like to ask you, but... not right here," Fluttershy replied. She didn't want to get people's attention like that couple a little way back.

   "Sure. Somepony's giving you a hard time?" RD asked.

   "Not exactly"

   Fluttershy went to a statue of Celestia and sat down on the ground, with Rainbow Dash flying down next to her. If they could keep it down, no one would catch on to their conversation. They would just stroll past them without giving a further glance.

   "I-it's about Pinkie," she said.

   "Yeah, what about her?"

   "Well, I was just wondering.... are we supposed to be doing... you know... it? By now?"

   Rainbow Dash looked at Fluttershy for a moment, trying to catch on. She finally began to flush and her wings spread out, no doubt from thinking about Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie.

   "I... uh... is that a thundercloud I hear in the distance?"

   "What? I don't hear anything."

   "I'm pretty sure I did. I'd better check it out, you know, just to be safe."

   Rainbow Dash took off again and left Fluttershy bewildered. That blue pegasus was always so confident and cocky, but could it be that she was no better than Fluttershy when it came to love? She could almost giggle at it, if she weren't feeling so anxious. Pinkie would be off her shift soon and she couldn't face her with these doubts gnawing at her. There was only one of her friends left to consult; Applejack. No offence to Twilight.

   She hurried out of town, in the complete opposite direction of her hut, towards the Apple family's farm. Applejack should be home, bucking apples or whatever other job she did around the place. She was met by Big Mac first, who was carting apples around.

   "Please, I need to talk with Applejack. Where is she now?" Fluttershy asked. The big red stallion pointed her towards the main house and Fluttershy flew off in a hurry. Applejack was more level-headed, but would she know anything about love? She was definitely sensible and at least honest. Fluttershy rushed into the house, but found to her dismay both Apple Bloom and Granny Smith sitting around a table and enjoying a meal.

   "Well howdy, Fluttershy! Came around for a meal, didcha?" Applejack asked. She realised for a moment that she had gone out to buy ingredients for dinner, but that would just have to wait for now.

   "Please, Applejack, I need your help with something. Is there a place where we can talk privately?"

   The earth pony looked at her funnily for a moment before replying.

   "Uh, sure, I guess. Why don't we go up to my room then?"

   Fluttershy followed her impatiently, barely able to keep her question inside. Applejack had barely closed the door before she started blurting it out.

   "Applejack, I just don't know what to do! I love Pinkie Pie very much, but I'm afraid she's not interested in me anymore. Are we supposed to have been doing it after all this time, or is it okay to wait? I mean, we've been seeing each other for a few moments, but is that a long time or a short one? I'm just so frustrated, I could scream!" She let out a very soft and screeching yell.

   "Listen, sugar cube, Ah don't think Ah'm the right pony to ask. Farm work is really time-consuming, and... Ah have to be honest, Ah haven't really got that much experience with love," Applejack replied and scratched her neck.

   "Oh... but what would you do?" Fluttershy asked. "If you were in my position?"

   "Ah don't know, but... Ah guess Ah would tie her down. Ah mean, Ah would release her if... this is getting off topic. Ah guess what Ah'm tryin' ta say is... uhm..."

   "I guess I'll just go see Twilight then," Fluttershy said and gave a defeated sigh.

   Applejack sweated profusely, like she had been trying to explain Apple Bloom about the birds and the bees. Hopefully that wouldn't be for a while. For Fluttershy, her problem was more immediate and she was running out of options. Sure, there were plenty of ponies with knowledge in town, but she didn't feel comfortable approaching folk she barely knew about a touchy subject like this. If only Rarity was here, she would know for sure what to do.

   Twilight was the only pony left she could ask, but whether she would be of any help would remain to be seen. Spike opened the door of Twilight's tree library, like he most often did. The librarian herself was usually preoccupied with her studies or reading books. Come to think of it, no one seemed to be borrowing any books despite it being a library. Fluttershy almost chuckled at imagining Twilight trying to give up any of the books, if the matter weren't so serious.

   "Oh, hey Spike... listen, I need to talk to Twilight about something. Do you think maybe you could give us a little room? Not that I don't want to be around you, it's just -"

   "I get it, this is some girly stuff," he replied. "No problem, I needed to get some supplies for Twilight's birthday anyway."

   That's right; it was Twilight's birthday tomorrow. That was why she had been so worried about Rarity not being back yet. But that would just have to wait. Twilight sat on the ground, curled up with a book, seemingly amused at the contents. She looked up when Spike shut the door behind him.

   "Oh hey Fluttershy! What brings you around?" she asked and smiled.

   "Well, actually... I'm here to ask you something," Fluttershy replied, blushing at the prospect of having to phrase her worries to yet another one of her friends. "I'm worried about my relationship with Pinkie. Are we supposed to have... you know, done "it" yet?"

   "Oh. I'm not sure I can be of a whole lot of help, but I've been reading up on the subject," Twilight said and got up on her hooves.

   "You've been reading porn?" Fluttershy asked surprised, but Twilight merely giggled.

   "No, I mean, I've been reading up on love. If friendship is magic, imagine how powerful love must be! Only none of my books have been very helpful on the subject and no romance novels I've found approach the subject either."

   "Don't worry about it, I'll just ask Rarity. She's sure to be back soon," Fluttershy said a little disappointed, but as if right on cue, a loud thud could be heard from the door.

   "Wonder who that could be?" Twilight asked and opened the door.

   A grey mare with yellow mane stood outside with a bag full of letters and parcels. She handed a letter to the unicorn before taking off, up into the sky, to deliver more letters.

   "What does it say?" Fluttershy asked.

   "It's from Rarity. "My dear Twilight, I am afraid I won't be able to make it to your birthday party tomorrow, because poor Opal is quite ill, and she is in no condition to make the long journey back to Ponyville. I do hope you understand. Your friend, Rarity."."

   "Oh no!" Fluttershy said. "She wouldn't miss your party unless it was serious. Poor Opal must be near death!"

   "And my first birthday with all my friends too..." Twilight said dejectedly.

   "I know! We'll just go to Canterlot and have your party there."

   "That's a great idea! Rarity is certain to be delighted."

   "You make the arrangements; I'll go back to my hut and prepare for our departure."

   "Great. Be at the station early tomorrow morning."

   Fluttershy completely forgot her worries; so great was her concern for animals that she would put their needs before her own. She hadn't gotten all the things she needed, but they wouldn't be gone for long, hopefully. She rushed back to her dwelling and set everything up so that the animals wouldn't starve. She got up early next morning with all of Twilight's presents in a saddle pouch and greeted her friends and wished Twilight happy birthday.

***

It was later that day, or rather early evening, that her previous uncertainties bubbled to the surface again. They had spent a good deal of time celebrating Twilight and even uncovered the truth behind Opal's mysterious illness. Pinkie made sure to keep the party going with games and music and cake, and Fluttershy never even considered the troubles that had been gnawing at her; she had way too much fun to speculate on such matters. But as Pinkie disappeared from the party again, she couldn't help but feel alone somehow, even surrounded by her closest friends. The pink earth pony had excused herself with some errand or other that apparently required her to be gone for some time. The others didn't seem to mind, but Fluttershy couldn't help but worry about her safety, and that's when she started thinking about the conversation she had overheard just a day ago.

   "Fluttershy, we're outta punch. Mind fetching some?" Applejack said. Fluttershy didn't register at first, but replied as soon as she snapped out of it.

   "Sure," she said and tried to sound happy. "Is it just me though, or do you feel we're missing something... or someone?"

   "Besides punch and Pinkie? Hmm... nah. Cain't think of anything at least," Applejack said and tapped her chin.

   Fluttershy couldn't shake the feeling though, but she didn't mind excusing herself from the party, at least for a while. She thought she caught a strange glimpse in Applejack's eyes as she turned around, but it must have been her imagination. The gamboge pony quickly turned her attention towards Rainbow Dash, who had remembered a crude joke that make the two of them laugh and Rarity and Twilight reproach her.

   The punch was kept in large glass jars in storage down in the basement, but they had already had a lot to drink and the mood was high. Just a small jar would be enough, and she probably wouldn't be able to carry anything bigger anyway. She descended the wooden stairs that led down beneath the pavilion they occupied. The garden party outside was long gone, and the privileged ponies of Canterlot all had to catch an early night's sleep. Usually bellboys would be charged with catering and errands, but their party was just a small informal one and they had brought most of their supplies with them. The punch, however, was a service to them.

   Fluttershy wasn't sure where to go and the halls were dark and filled with cobwebs and dust. She didn't much enjoy being down here, but at least the scary surroundings took her mind off of things. She pushed open various doors, but most of them were either empty or filled with shelves or crates or barrels. It would be just her luck if the jars were being kept at the very end. There was one room, however, that was strangely well-illuminated. Light streamed out from the half-open door and bathed the hallway in its luminescence. She felt almost drawn towards it, to see what could possibly need all this light.

   The door swung open and revealed a room that had been filled with empty shelves on all sides, which were now equipped with candles. The predominant feature was a large mattress laid out on the floor with rose petals strewn across it. Pinkie Pie lay in the middle of it in a seductive pose and waved Fluttershy closer. She blushed at the sight and her wings stretched out.

   "You know, Fluttershy, I'm very disappointed in you. You should know by now that you can talk to me about everything. I don't ever want to hear from a second hand again that you're worried about me leaving you."

   Her words were stern, but her tone was enticing. She clopped at the mattress, right next to her, for Fluttershy to join her. Fluttershy couldn't help but start to cry and plunged down next to Pinkie, who wrapped her arms around her.

   "I'm sorry Pinkie, I didn't mean to make it seem like we were having trouble. I know you'll think it's silly, but I heard a couple talking about kids and I began to fret. I know there are things two mares can't do with each other that a mare and a colt can do, so I thought you'd rather be in a straight relationship with someone who could give you a kid, someone who could satisfy you."

   "Are you done?" Pinkie asked, again in that harsh yet exciting tone.

   Fluttershy nodded, so Pinkie kissed her tenderly and nipped her ear.

   "I might be able to find a colt that could love me and give me a kid, but I'd never be able to find someone I love as much as you." Fluttershy dried her tears and looked down at the mare below her. She could see it in her eyes that every word she said was the truth, and it made her happier than anything would ever do. She couldn't help but laugh at how stupid she had been. "You promise me never to do keep something like this boxed in again?"

   "I Pinkie-Promise," Fluttershy said. "Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye." They smiled at each other and kissed again, like two lovers who hadn't seen each other for years. "Are we going to do it now?"

   "If you want to," Pinkie said.

   "I do. I'm ready, but... I don't know what to do."

   "Neither do I, but what does that matter?"

    Pinkie turned Fluttershy around so that she would be at the top. She kissed her again and traced a line down Fluttershy's fluffy, yellow coat. She shuddered and squeaked as Pinkie began to kiss her nipples.

   "What if the others hear us," she asked.

   "They won't, trust me. I've been banging on the walls and yelling to test it," Pinkie replied and caressed Fluttershy's belly gently.

   That night, two ponies who loved each other more than anything else were joined in flesh. For the first time in either of their lives, they felt an uncontainable joy that brought unfamiliar noises past their lips. Fluttershy cried, not of sadness or of shame, but of happiness. She had never thought she would find something that bring her this much pleasure.

   Pinkie, too, learned something new that day. She had been afraid of letting others into her life for fear of getting hurt, but this day was the first time she had felt true happiness. Not the kind that make others laugh and smile, but the one that makes you satisfied and whole.

   They kissed passionately again, drawing a string of saliva between them, before Pinkie rolled to the side.

  "You see Fluttershy, gender isn't important when it comes to love! You listening to me, honey?"

   "I'm sorry, Pinkie, that I could ever doubt you," Fluttershy said and embraced her lover with fresh tears streaming down her cheeks. "Pinkie, I love you, more than words can express. I was just so afraid that I wasn't good enough for you, that we were only kissing, that I was holding back for being a mare... I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry."

   "It's okay, my love," Pinkie said and snuggled Fluttershy and nibbled on her ear again. "We better need to wash up before rejoining the others. There's a shower down here as well."


So now I ask you, does love come with harmony? It will be a subject that we shall seek to answer through demonstration via this series of non-continuous shipping fics. If you have a pairing that you would like to see, find the latest chapter and leave a comment.


ALTERNATIVE ENDING: I ran a bit short and decided to include this extra piece. If you don't like weight gain, don't read on.

Ponyville had been peaceful during the last few months. Sure, they had had a visit from the princess and the whole affair with her bird and Pinkie went over the deep end and they had gone to the gala and then there was the whole Nightmare Night, but things had, all in all, been peaceful. Fluttershy tended to her garden and fed the animals and hummed a little song as she went about her business. Pinkie Pie came over from time to time, often directly from work, with leftover treats from the shop and to help out. She loved gorging on the cakes and cookies that Pinkie kept bringing her, and she kept eating them even after she was full.

   This had been going on for a few weeks by now, and Fluttershy had barely noticed the changes in her body. Her cheeks had gotten fuller, a nice little belly was starting to hang down and her behind had widened considerably. She had noticed, though, that it had gotten more difficult to carry out her tasks without getting seriously winded. She needed to rest more often and was more or less grounded. She thought nothing of it and kept munching away happily on the treats Pinkie gave her.

   Pinkie was more than happy to help out with the chores, to relieve some of the burden that Fluttershy felt. Her enthusiasm, however, had a tendency to drive the animals away, but Fluttershy had decided to be patient. This was something she wanted with all her heart. She was quite content until one day a few months later, waking up late in the day.

   The bed creaked louder than ever as she got out. She had not had a chance to look herself in a mirror for some time, but today was a clear day, so she decided to go to the pond. She packed away three sandwiches, two bottles of thick honey and a small stack of hay, all for herself in case she got hungry. She had trouble getting the saddle pouch's belt around her gut and she was starting to go beyond the last hope. She sucked in her stomach and at last, with some effort, managed to get it on her back.

   It normally only took her a few minutes to get to the small lake, but today it took her twenty. She huffed and puffed and collapsed, just short of the bank. She was sweating profusely and was completely out of breath, so she decided that she had gone far enough. Her stomach rumbled loudly and she quickly inhaled the sandwiches, gone almost before she could get them out of her pouches. She was alone out here and decided to pig out, and her face was lathered with thick mayo and crumbs, but she was far from full.

   She took out the jars of honey and allowed the dense, yellow bee product slowly drip down her gullet and all over face. They too were quickly gone. She only had the small pile of hay left, which she contently gnawed on. She was starting to get her breath again and decided to take a small walk around the lake, leisurely consuming the small bale. The yellow pegasus was beginning to feel full, but it would be a waste to have come all the way out here so she ate it anyway.

   The crystal clear water of the pond was tempting and she couldn't help but feel drawn towards it. She peered down at her reflection with a smile until she saw how fat her face was. She had developed a second chin and was well on her way to a third. She looked at her hooves and saw how bloated they were. She also noticed that her belly was nearly touching to the ground and how big her flank had gotten. She was looking at a monster which made her cry deeply. She swallowed the straws she had in her mouth, to which her belly gave a loud groan. The belt could no longer handle her gut and loudly snapped off. She was mortified and backed away slowly, not wanting to look at that frightening image any longer. She couldn't let anyone see her in this shape and hurried home to lock herself away. She could never go outside again.

   About that time, Pinkie Pie had gotten off work early. The Cakes had closed the shop because of maternity leave, but they had a whole bunch of cakes and cookies and goods that they couldn't sell now, so Pinkie carted the whole thing with her to her girlfriend's hut. She hummed a merry little melody as she skipped down Ponyville, making everyone smile as she went past them. She waved at the other ponies, who all knew where she was going in such a spectacularly good mood, even for Pinkie.

   But when she knocked on the door to Fluttershy's hut, she didn't get any response. She knocked again, a little louder. "That's odd, she would have told me if she was going anywhere," Pinkie reasoned. She peered in through the windows, but the place was cast in darkness. She did hear a lot of creaking though, but that could easily have been the abundance of animals her girlfriend kept. She tried knocking on the windows as well and calling to her, but Fluttershy remained quiet.

   Pinkie cocked her head and shrugged. It might have been something urgent, like a really sick animal in the forest or some other duty. She turned around, just about ready to leave, when a small white bunny stopped her.

   "Hey Angel. You wouldn't have seen Fluttershy, would you?"

   The little bunny nodded and tried to gesture his message to Pinkie. Incapable of speech, Angel had no choice but to wave his arms around and dance as a means to talk.

   "Fluttershy realised she is overdue and has locked herself inside in shame?" she asked gasped. Angel smacked his face in contempt and tried again, with more vivid gestures. Pinkie gave an even louder gasp when she understood.

    "Fluttershy realised she is OVERWEIGHT and locked herself inside in shame?" Angel nodded resolutely and Pinkie began to giggle. "Don't worry! As her most intimate friend, it is my duty to make her happy again." Pinkie raced back to the door and hammered louder than before. "I know you're in there, Fluttershy!"

   "Go away. I'm hideous."

   "You either open this door right this minute or I'll get the whole town down here to break it open."

   There was a short silence before the door creaked open slowly. Pinkie dragged the cart with fattening treats inside and left it in the middle of the floor. She looked around and tried to locate her best friend, but her eyes failed her in the darkness. It was her nose that revealed her location, as she quickly noticed the smell of sweat and chocolate from the kitchen.

   Pinkie went inside to see Fluttershy on the floor, lying on her back and propped up against a counter with several boxes of cookies scattered around her. She had been stuffing her face in sorrow ever since she came home from her walk, eating absolutely everything in the house and she appeared more bloated than ever. Pinkie's jaw literally dropped to the floor.

   "Don't look at me," Fluttershy said and covered her face with her hooves. "It's all your fault that I got this ugly."

   "Me? Don't be a silly filly, I only gave you those snacks because you looked so happy eating them! Besides, I don't think you're ugly." Pinkie said that last part in a seductive tone and slowly advanced upon yellow blob that was too full to move.

   "You're just saying that," Fluttershy replied and sniffed heavily.

   "You think I didn't notice you filling out? You think I could overlook that bloated gut of yours? You liked it and that's why you kept stuffing yourself. I think you're sexy, Fluttershy, sexier now than ever."

   "You really mean that?" Fluttershy said and looked up again. Pinkie gave her a seductive glance and disappeared again, returning shortly with the cart.

   "You've been a very naughty pony, Blubbershy, hiding yourself from me like this."

   "Don't call me that!" Fluttershy said, but she could hardly object as Pinkie mounted her enormous gut and peered into her eyes.

   She had a big cake in each hoof, but started out with kissing Fluttershy tenderly, balancing the trays skilfully in each hoof. Fluttershy's thick lips and tongue and especially the crumbs of a hundred cookies were deeply arousing to Pinkie. She kept their kiss longer than they were used to.

   "You've eaten all this," Pinkie said and alluded to the cardboard boxes torn open around on the floor, "but you're not full yet, are you?"

   "Well, actually, I've been full for a while now," but Pinkie didn't heed her words.

   She forced a piece of dark chocolate cake, layered three times over with a thick cream of chocolate and sprinkled with small flakes of chocolate, into Fluttershy's mouth. She moaned slightly, but obediently ate it and swallowed. Both of them were turned on, all alone in the outskirts of town. It was just the two of them and a cart full of cakes.

   Pinkie forced another slice of cake, then another and another and another into Fluttershy's mouth before she started to protest. She was getting really full and her already bloated tummy was starting to hurt. She tried to tell Pinkie to stop, but she only kept going and began to massage the yellow stomach carefully. The pains almost disappeared, as did the two cakes. Pinkie took a handful of éclairs in her arms and licked them sensually before stuffing them inside Fluttershy's mouth. Both of them were getting pretty aroused and after feeding her friend six éclairs, ten donuts and five more cakes, they were both at their limit.

   Pinkie helped Fluttershy down on the floor where she laid her on her side. That night, two ponies who loved each other more than anything else were joined in flesh. For the first time in either of their lives, they felt an uncontainable joy that brought unfamiliar noises past their lips. Fluttershy cried, not of sadness or of shame, but of happiness. She had never thought she would find something that bring her this much pleasure.

   Pinkie, too, learned something new that day. She had been afraid of letting others into her life for fear of getting hurt, but this day was the first time she had felt true happiness. Not the kind that make others laugh and smile, but the one that makes you satisfied and whole.

   Pinkie fell listless down on Fluttershy's yellow gut and breathed heavily from all the excitement, her face right next to Fluttershy's.

   "I love you, Fluttershy, all of you, every inch of you," Pinkie said and jiggled some of the love handles. "I don't care how fat you get or how thin you want to be, I love you."

   "I love you too, Pinkie Pie, with all of my heart. Um... do you think I should lose some of this weight?" Fluttershy asked timidly, but was interrupted by a long, intimate kiss that left a strand saliva between their mouths.

   "Only if you want to. Personally I think you could stand to gain a bit more! Why don't you take a nap, you look completely worn out. I'll feed you some more when you wake up again."

   "I'd love that."

   Fluttershy closed her eyes, truly tired from her walk and all the eating and the sex fell into a deep slumber, dreaming of becoming immobile and being cared for and pampered by Pinkie.