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"Aaaaanndd! Here you have it everypony. Round two!" Pinkie declared.

The two competitors stood once more on opposite ends of the arena, facing each other. This time it was clear that Fluttershy was feeling more confident in herself. Her lance quivered slightly as she did her best to line it up to her fillyfriend.

The party pony blew the horn with gusto, desperately trying to distract from the encroaching darkness.

Dash immediately takes the initiative, charging towards her fillyfriend. She quickly aims her lance, getting it almostly perfectly on target.

Nervous, Fluttershy squeaked, but decided to at least try. 'I don't want to disrespect her...but I know she doesn't want to lose... I can do this...I have to give it my all! ...Then again...I do deserve this after what I did to her when she wanted to see the dragon migration....'

Closing her eyes, the frightened pegasus galloped forward, lance quivering like a branch getting blowin in the wind.

CLANG!

Sure enough, Fluttershy was knocked backwards, but didn't go flying out of the jousting ring this time. Instead she was merely knocked back a few feet, sliding against the ground.

A voctorious cyan pegasus landed beside her fillyfriend, chest puffed out in victory. "Nearly got me that time Fluttershy." She grinned down at her defeated lover. "Please try again. The crowd is loving us."

The cocky smile brought rays of hope and light to the deflating pegasus who grinned back, happy that she wasn't letting her mare down.

"...Okay, Rainbow...let's do this..." Fluttershy shakily rose to her hooves. Then, despite the warnings not to make Rainbow look soft, she leaned in and nuzzled her affectionately.

"Awwwwwwwwww!!!!" The crowd cheered.

"Do it again guys!" Pinkie prompted. "I think I just saw a few of them brighten up!"

A very blushy Fluttershy swallowed, realizing that they were now in public with quite a few ponies, strangers no less, watching them. As if the jousting wasn't enough, now they were witnessing the exchange of affection.

But then it hit her.

The Crystal Empire seemed to brighten all the more when they were happy, and came from moments that made them feel happy. Fluttershy wondered...could a little love work its way into that, too? That was something she could do!

The bold mare stole her spotlight moment, leaning in and kissing the yellow pegasus right on the lips, holding onto the exchange. Cyan and yellow wings slowly rose in excitment as the couple almost lost themselves in each other. Before Fluttershy could press anymore, Raibnow broke the exchange, grinning.

"You'll get a bigger one if you can hit me." She took off into the air, the attention of the crowd upon her. "Hey everypony! My fillyfriend gets another one of those if she can hit me. What do you all say to that?"

"WHOOOOOOOOOO!!!!" The crowd loudly cheered.

"Yea!" She swooped down to her side, grinning like a crazy lovestruck filly.

Feeling rejuvenated, Fluttershy smiled brightly. This definitely wasn't so bad of a trade-off after all! Doing her best to calm herself, she strode across to her side. Something was now burning inside her, she wanted her Rainbow Dash back in her hooves. 'I must hit her... somehow...'

The two armoured pegasi took their positions on either side of the barrier wall, ready for one more round. This time, feeling much like she did during her training for Tornado Day, Fluttershy was no longer quivering in her armor. Instead, she faced straight ahead, standing straight, and looking determined as ever. She was ready for this. Ready for the challenge. Ready for it all.

On the opposite side, Rainbow Dash pawed at the ground with a forehoof, ready for action. This was going to be awesome! She just knew it. There was no way Fluttershy would let her down after that stunt.

Right on cue, Pinkie Pie happily blew the flugelhorn.

Dash quickly took aim and charged. Nothing was going to stop her. Nothing... except maybe the mare who was mirroring her actions, charging straight at her as if on a mission. Grinning back at her determined opponent, she put on one last burst of speed.

Giving it her all, making sure her lance was steady, Fluttershy kicked in as much speed as she could muster. It was tough running in the armor, but she was still ready to see this through. One way or another, she was going to make Rainbow proud. So proud that she would sweep her off her hooves and they would have a happy dance of celebration right in the air.

CLANG!

"Oooooooohhh!!!" Gasped the crowd.

"And it's a TIE!!!" Pinkie announced.

Both mares lay on the ground, gazing into each others eyes.

Elation filled Fluttershy. She had done it! She had hit her fillyfriend, scoring a tie in a very physical sport that nopony would ever have considered her a candiadat.

"Oh my...." Fluttershy murmured, wide-eyed. "...Are...are you okay?" She asked softly.

"Of course I am!" Dash brushed her concern off, quickly jumping up to offer a helping hoof to her fillyfriend.

Blushing, her smile bright as ever, Fluttershy took the offering of her hoof and was helped to her hooves.

"Now KISS!" Pinkie declared, giggling like a school filly before zipping away for an unknown mission.

Without a second thought Fluttershy happily complied, pulling her champion in for a long passionate kiss. The small fire inside her became an open bonfire, causing her to shudder as euphoria spilled over her system. She had her prize and was determined to hold onto her for as long as possible.

Dash did admittedly feel pretty silly to be kissing her fillyfriend in front of a crowd, as well as earning cheers because of it, but at the same time, she couldn't complain. It was all part of saving the Crystal Empire, and it WAS still a cheering crowd. Even if it meant having to share a kiss for it and therefore shattering her "cool" reputation. But in an afterthought, Fluttershy's sweet and gentle nature always had its way of breaking through her. But then again, this kiss appeared to make them both seem cool in the eyes of the crystal ponies. Maybe it was okay to kiss her fillyfriend in front of them, it seemed to be helping them recover themselves.

Fluttershy pulled away to momentary gaze into the lidded shining eye's of her lover. This was an amazing experience, who'd have thought that they could be helping save a faraway kingdom with the power of their love!

The far off, but still booming and menacing voice of what they could only guess was the legendary King Sombra rang out and the blissful world around the two loves disappeared, replaced by a haze of fear. Dark storm clouds bellowed overhead, closing in on the once-peaceful and sunny environment of the atmosphere.

Cries of fear rang out from the audience and many immediately started to rush off to hide.

Now terrified, Fluttershy squealed in fear and hid up against Rainbow Dash, trembling in her armor. She could see now that the danger was approaching hard and fast. This being was able to curse and affect an entire Empire even after being defeated and sealed away...she could only imagine what he would be able to do now he was breaking through their defenses!

"Rainbow...! He's coming through! What will we do?!" Fluttershy cried in fear, tears in her eyes.

"Come on!" Dash cried, grabbing her quickly freezing up fillyfriend in her forehooves. "I'm taking you someplace safe!" She took off, powering along in the darkening sky, flying for the both of them.

Trembling, Fluttershy held fast to her lover in fear, but put her trust within her. She could only hope they would make it, hope that Rainbow would be able to face up against the beast. Regardless, she felt terrified and about to burst into hysterics. Already she regretted ever coming this way and wanted to go home even more.

The bold flyer gritted her teeth as she flew along. Carrying Fluttershy was no problem. Carrying a fully armoured Fluttershy whilst wearing full plate herself... now that was a problem. The added weight dragged at her, pulling the bold pegasus toward the ground despite her best efforts at staying aloft.

"Rainbow...we can...change out this armor....or at least I could..." Fluttershy managed, her voice strained.

"Nearly there, snuggly! Then I'll strip us down and keep you safe!" She flew on, wings burning toward the citadel where Shining Armour and Prince Cadence sat, the last of the magic was clearly draining from the noble alicorn and even from a distance, Rainbow Dash could tell that she was not going to make it much longer. But Rainbow knew that no matter what, she had to keep her own special somepony safe regardless of any consequences.

Unsure of what to do or what to say, considering the circumstances, all Fluttershy could think about were the possible tragic consequences. At least, on the forefront. She had faith in her friends, faith in Princess Cadence, despite that it was clear she was not going to last much longer. She had faith, she hoped with all her heart that they would make it. But it didn't stop the fear of the tragic possibilities.

Leaning in close, Fluttershy nuzzled her mare lightly. "I love you, Rainbow Dash..."

"I know, Fluttershy. I love you, too." The bold protector laid her precious cargo down next to the tiring princess. "Fluttershy..." She panted, 'Oh sweet Celestia, that was hard!' "Follow me, dear."

The royal couple gave the two pegasi a strange look as Fluttershy allowed herself to be led off.

As soon as the couple made it around the corner Dash rounded on her fillyfriend. "Right. Lets get this suit of armour off you. I want my snuggly wuggly to strip, right here right now!" She commanded, giggling like a silly school filly, offering a quick nuzzle for moral support.

Fluttershy blushed at the implications within, but realized that now was not the time. After all, it was meant for different reasons. She first took off her helmet, while Rainbow helped her remove the body armor. The pair quickly had her armour off and she immediately threw herself into the hooves of her protector and lover.

"Oh Dashie! I'm so happy we made it here safe!" She nuzzled the blushing pegasus for a moment, taking in the salty scent of her perspiring mare. "Now I get to help you out of your heavy armour." She blushed heavily, smiling shyly as she pulled away, gazing into the stunning cerise eyes of her marefriend.

"Oh....okay, you can help me out..." Dash smiled and rolled her eyes good-naturedly.

"Yay!" Giggled a very happy Fluttershy as she went to work on helping Dash remove her body armor.

The two removed the heavy plates quickly, Dash being a lot more skilled than her fillyfriend at removing her own armour. Fluttershy was delighted to see that there were no marks indicating where she had hit her precious pony whilst jousting. Removing the last armoured horse shoe, Fluttershy nuzzled into the powerful frame of her lover.

"Mmmmmmm.... My rainbow...." She cooed gently as she cuddled into the cyan plush. "My brave, brave, powerful rainbow..."

"Hey there snuggly. You planning on giving me a heart attack back there? Because your cuddles have enough cuteness to make my tough heart explode." She turned and planted a kiss on the cuddling pony's muzzle.

"Hee..." Fluttershy giggled, snuggling her. "Well....I just hope we'll all be okay...and I just want to spend any few moments we may have left just being with you, and loving you... To be there with all our friends..." She nuzzled into her neck, trying to keep her brave face.

"Oh good. I plan on keeping a close eye on my dear filly. I've had enough of you wandering off like that." Spectrum flashed as Dash nuzzled her lover back.

"I'm not going anywhere," Fluttershy promised, trying to fight back tears. "I'm staying here with all of you. I promise."

"All of me? But theres only one Rainbow Dash to go around baby!" The cheeky pegasus pulled away slowly, grinning.

But Fluttershy giggled and grabbed her back into a warm embrace, snuggling her. "And that one Rainbow Dash is all mine..."

"Just the way she likes it..." Dash almost purred back.

"Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy! What are you two doing here?" Rarity asked fromt the protective embrace of Applejack.

Pinkie bounded up to the two pegasi. "Oh! I know, I know! You two were stripping down to do something private weren't you?" A cheeky grin covered the random party pony's face.

"N-No....!" Fluttershy squeaked, shaking her head. "We just...we wanted to take the armour off since it was very heavy..."

"Ah know... Ol' Pinks was jus' being silly, wernt ya Pinkie Pie?" The farmer threw the culprit a menacing stare.

"Who me?" Pinkie fell on the floor giggling. "I'm always silly, silly!"

"Well for your information, you guys, I just don't want Fluttershy to be that scared and start panicking, that's all," Dash said matter-of-factly.

Fluttershy nodded, blushing heavily. "Yes..."

"I can tell, anything like that can wait til we are back in Ponyville." Rarity interjected as she nuzzled a blushing Applejack. "I think we should go and check on the Princess though. I have a dreadful feeling that she is feeling most poorly."

"You guys go ahead, we'll be right there!"

"Awright, we'll be out with 'em on tha' balcony," said Applejack. "Let's go, y'all... Ah hope Twi's got somethin' up her sleeve."

"Where is that unicorn?" Dash asked from within the loving hold of her fillyfriend.

"I do believe she and Spike are gone to find the Crystal Heart..." Rarity responded thoughtfully as the the other ponies left the room to rejoin the Prince and Princess on the balcony of the palace.

"That pony's going to steal my spot and defeat King Sombra isn't she?" Dash was growing more even more annoyed. "I think I need to head up there and show everypony that nopony can beat me."

"Rainbow, please, no!" Fluttershy cried. "Stay here with us!"

"They'll slow me down. Come on Fluttershy!" Dash extracted herself from the hold of desperate mare.

"W-Wait! No...!" Squeaked the terrified pony.

Rainbow followed her other friends out onto the balcony where Rarity and Applejack were engaged, trying to calm the crystal ponies below.

A very sad Fluttershy followed her fillyfriend out only to have the bold pegasus back away from her, placing Pinkie Pie in between them like some kind of shield. Fluttershy let out a sigh of resignation 'She doesn't want to be with me now...'

Just then, the magic from the royal alicorn ran out, Cadence almost fainted as her last reserves failed her to the cruel laughter from the evil king. Ponies below cried out in panic.

"Well then I'll just have to go on my own! You stay there, on that balcony! I'll be able to keep an eye on you there Flutters." Dash lept up and gave her partner a parting kiss on the muzzle, before turning to gallop off, ready to fly into battle.

"Nooooooooooo!" Fluttershy yelled in anguish, reaching toward her in vain. But it was too late. She was gone. And nothing would change her mind. She wouldn't even catch up to her fast enough. "...Rainbow..."

Tears in her eyes, but trying to fight them back, the saddened pegasus slowly trudged over and sat at the back of the balcony trying to put the horryfying sounds from below out of her mind.

'This is going to be it, isn't it...? Are we really doomed? ...Rainbow...please come back here...at least stay with me...with us...to the end...' Fluttershy thought.

A cry from above caused the distraught mare to pull out of her distressed state. Fluttershy recognized it...it was Spike! He had the crystal heart! Her own heart did a leap, maybe things would work out okay after all.

A deadly roar sounded from below, "That is mine!"

Fluttershy 'eeped!' in fear and rushed off. She had to find Rainbow Dash, that was the only pony who could protect her. She couldn't let this go on, not like this. She couldn't let Rainbow go out there against this...this thing all by herself.

"Rainbow...! Rainbow...! Rainbow Dash where are you?! Rainbow!" Fluttershy yelled into the corridors inside, frantically trying to find her. "Rainbow!!"

"Fluttershy!" The equally panicked call from above reached her ears.

A burst of relief coursed through the frightened pegasus. "Rainbow...! Rainbow, I'm here! I'm here! Come back here, please! Please...! Don't leave me!"

Without any warning, a rainbow streak appeared, crashing into Fluttershy, sending both pegasi tumbling along. "I'm so sorry Fluttershy!" Dash cried, hugging her fillyfriend. "I shouldn't have left you. Now King Sombra's free! I need to get us both to safety."

"Let's go...to the balcony...if nothing else, we have to support Princess Cadence..." Fluttershy whispered, her voice shaking as she clung tightly to her lover. Tears poured down her cheeks as she buried her face in her neck.

"But Cadence failed! You saw that." Dash tried to defend her position as tears dampened her coat.

"But what happens if we can help again. You know... like we did in the arena with the crystal ponies. Our love might be able to help her." The shaking yellow mare pleaded. "It's...it's a long shot...but it's something we can do to try to help... I love you.... Rainbow I love you... And...and....my answer is yes."

"Yes?" The bold mare replied without understanding.

Fluttershy smiled through her tears, laying their foreheads together as she embraced her beloved. "....I'll marry you, Rainbow..."

A massive cheeky grin washed away the shy pony's fears.

"Oh yes?! I would love that!!" She leaned in and planted a kiss upon Fluttershy's glowing face. "Now lets go! We've got a princess to save!" She galloped off with her lover and future wife in tow.
"Yes!" Fluttershy agreed, feeling a whole new sense of confidence and excitement. Things were really looking up after all, and it just took a little moment of love. Even if a little. She too felt prepared to face this, no matter what would happen.

The pegasus couple burst back out onto the balcony only to spot the failed alicorn.

"Dash? What do we do?" Fluttershy pleaded.

I know. Come here you!" The bold warrior grabbed her shy lover and pulled her into a sweet kiss that froze time.

xxxxx

"Oh Rainbow. I'm so happy that worked." Crystal Fluttershy nuzzled her equally crystalized fillyfriend.

Crystal Rainbow Dash grinned widely, nuzzling her back. She admired just how amazingly beautiful Fluttershy looked as a crystal pony. If she'd been so adorably beautiful in the past, it just increased, tenfold.

"Hey Fluttershy. You should soo get Cadence to do this at our wedding. It makes you really shine. As in... I can hardly keep my hooves off you kind of shine." She nudged her crystal companion gently, knowingly.

Amazingly, Crystal Fluttershy blushed heavily and giggled, "And you look gorgeous as well, Rainbow... Hee...I think we should get Princess Cadence to do this again..."

"Me? I'm awesome. But I'll let you confuse that with good looking.' The cocky pony stroked her crystalized mane gently.

"Yes you are, and you know it," Fluttershy smiled brightly.

"Okay, for you, I'm gorgeous..." Dash admitted, proudly standing by her mare as the others celebrated around them.

Giggling, Fluttershy nuzzled her gently and also observed the celebration going on. Now the Crystal Heart had been returned to its rightful place, its full power restored. As well as that, Spike had been a great help in saving the day. The rest of the ponies couldn't help but find that to be wonderful. He was finally getting a little recognition he completely deserved.

Amidst the cheering, the two pegasi never strayed from each other's side, as their love helped even just a little bit.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Fluttershy nuzzled into her protectors soft mane. Although it had been awesome getting to be made of crystal for a short period of time, it felt nice to be back to normal.

They were all now on the train ride back to Canterlot, feeling mixtures of exhausted from the tough day, and yet still very excited from all the events.

"I'm off to go see Twilight!" Spike announced, happily abandoning the presence of the cuddling duos in the room for something a little less lovey-dovey.

"Poor Spike Wikey." Rarity commented from within the light grasp of Applejack. "I'm sure he'll come round soon enough."

"O' course he will! He's a hero now, an' Ah'm sure he'll be celebrated by tha time we get back ta Ponyville!" Applejack remarked with a grin.

"Oh yes." Fluttershy agreed, snuggling into her own lovers forehooves. "I'm sure he will. A wedding will also lighten him up." She giggled softly, allowing her cheeks to heat up.

"A weddin'?" Applejack repeated. "Who's gettin' married?"

"How lovely, darling! A wedding! Do tell! Who's wedding?" Rarity asked, eager.

"It's not official yet." Dash defended, playing with her fillyfriend's mane. "We've just both said yes."

Applejack's jaw dropped and Rarity's eyes went wide, both mares staring with surprise at the two cuddling pegasi.

Fluttershy giggled with glee and kissed her lover's cheek. "Yes, we have.... We'll see when....but for now..."

"I have my snuggly wuggly and she has me." Rainbow giggled. "Just don't tell anypony else. I don't want to lose my reputation for awesomeness."

"OOOOHHH!! You guys are getting married?!" Pinkie popped out of nowhere behind their seats, grinning. "Then I'll have to throw you a wedding shower!! Fluttershy, you're the bride, right? Okay! I'll throw you a bachelorette party! And one for you too, Dashie!"

"N-no... I'll be f-fine..." Fluttershy did her best to evade the offer of a party.

"Why don't we just have one big party? Then I can be there for you Flutters." The bold mare nuzzled her companion's cheek lovingly.

Looking relieved, the creamy yellow pony nodded and smiled, "That sounds wonderful, Rainbow."

"I'll make the dresses dears!" Rarity interjected with an excited look upon her face. "This will be so much fun."

"Jes' don' have too much fun there Rar'. Ah' don't need mah good friend going and fogetting about everypony else jus' case there's a weddin'." Applejack chided.

But Rarity didn't listen, "Do tell! Have you set a date? A possible time when this shall be?!"

"Erm..." Fluttershy blinked, looking to Rainbow for help.

"No! Not yet. Give Fluttershy and me time. We'll figure it out. Then you can go get all excited over how awesome it's going to be." The bold pegasus spoke for them both.

"All right, but do I wish to know as soon as you figure it out!" Rarity winked, giggling.

As the moment passed, Fluttershy couldn't help but whisper, "You know...I always did imagine we'd marry in the spring..."

"Yes..." Dash grinned cheekily at her. "Then I can say... This is mine." She motioned to the whole of the pegasus in her hold, grinning like an elated school filly who had just won a prize.

"Well somepony wants some action I see." Rarity commented, a soft smirk adorning her features.

"Rarity...." Fluttershy blushed, hiding her face in Rainbow's neck shyly.

"What?" The alabaster mare glanced appealingly across at Applejack for support.

"Awright, y'all stop bein' silly..." Applejack chuckled, looking from one pony to the other. "Whaddya say, RD? Mind keepin' her a bit busy?" She indicated to Fluttershy. "Ah got this one."

"Well... I certainly won't mind." Dash grinned cheekily back. "Dear Flutters won't either. She enjoyed me getting a little too close just before we jousted. So I'm sure I can count on her support." She winked at her blushy lover.

Fluttershy giggled with shyness, but smiled. "Sure, Dashie... But not too much, we still have to wait until we get home. ...Until then...it does feel a little bit cold..." She winked.

"Well I'm guess I can fix that with my super awesomeness." A cyan wing descended upon the cuddling mare, covering her in a loving embrace.

Warm fuzzies flooded their systems, giving the pair of pegasi snuggled up a small elating buzz of joy. They slowly allowed themselves to fall asleep, contented, ready to enjoy the ride home together.

Despite the frigid air in the carriage, everypony inside felt the bubbly warmth of love.

Description
"Aaaaanndd! Here you have it everypony. Round two!" Pinkie declared.

The two competitors stood once more on opposite ends of the arena, facing each other. This time it was clear that Fluttershy was feeling more confident in herself. Her lance quivered slightly as she did her best to line it up to her fillyfriend.

The party pony blew the horn with gusto, desperately trying to distract from the encroaching darkness.

Dash immediately takes the initiative, charging towards her fillyfriend. She quickly aims her lance, getting it almostly perfectly on target.

Nervous, Fluttershy squeaked, but decided to at least try. 'I don't want to disrespect her...but I know she doesn't want to lose... I can do this...I have to give it my all! ...Then again...I do deserve this after what I did to her when she wanted to see the dragon migration....'

Closing her eyes, the frightened pegasus galloped forward, lance quivering like a branch getting blowin in the wind.

CLANG!

Sure enough, Fluttershy was knocked backwards, but didn't go flying out of the jousting ring this time. Instead she was merely knocked back a few feet, sliding against the ground.

A voctorious cyan pegasus landed beside her fillyfriend, chest puffed out in victory. "Nearly got me that time Fluttershy." She grinned down at her defeated lover. "Please try again. The crowd is loving us."

The cocky smile brought rays of hope and light to the deflating pegasus who grinned back, happy that she wasn't letting her mare down.

"...Okay, Rainbow...let's do this..." Fluttershy shakily rose to her hooves. Then, despite the warnings not to make Rainbow look soft, she leaned in and nuzzled her affectionately.

"Awwwwwwwwww!!!!" The crowd cheered.

"Do it again guys!" Pinkie prompted. "I think I just saw a few of them brighten up!"

A very blushy Fluttershy swallowed, realizing that they were now in public with quite a few ponies, strangers no less, watching them. As if the jousting wasn't enough, now they were witnessing the exchange of affection.

But then it hit her.

The Crystal Empire seemed to brighten all the more when they were happy, and came from moments that made them feel happy. Fluttershy wondered...could a little love work its way into that, too? That was something she could do!

The bold mare stole her spotlight moment, leaning in and kissing the yellow pegasus right on the lips, holding onto the exchange. Cyan and yellow wings slowly rose in excitment as the couple almost lost themselves in each other. Before Fluttershy could press anymore, Raibnow broke the exchange, grinning.

"You'll get a bigger one if you can hit me." She took off into the air, the attention of the crowd upon her. "Hey everypony! My fillyfriend gets another one of those if she can hit me. What do you all say to that?"

"WHOOOOOOOOOO!!!!" The crowd loudly cheered.

"Yea!" She swooped down to her side, grinning like a crazy lovestruck filly.

Feeling rejuvenated, Fluttershy smiled brightly. This definitely wasn't so bad of a trade-off after all! Doing her best to calm herself, she strode across to her side. Something was now burning inside her, she wanted her Rainbow Dash back in her hooves. 'I must hit her... somehow...'

The two armoured pegasi took their positions on either side of the barrier wall, ready for one more round. This time, feeling much like she did during her training for Tornado Day, Fluttershy was no longer quivering in her armor. Instead, she faced straight ahead, standing straight, and looking determined as ever. She was ready for this. Ready for the challenge. Ready for it all.

On the opposite side, Rainbow Dash pawed at the ground with a forehoof, ready for action. This was going to be awesome! She just knew it. There was no way Fluttershy would let her down after that stunt.

Right on cue, Pinkie Pie happily blew the flugelhorn.

Dash quickly took aim and charged. Nothing was going to stop her. Nothing... except maybe the mare who was mirroring her actions, charging straight at her as if on a mission. Grinning back at her determined opponent, she put on one last burst of speed.

Giving it her all, making sure her lance was steady, Fluttershy kicked in as much speed as she could muster. It was tough running in the armor, but she was still ready to see this through. One way or another, she was going to make Rainbow proud. So proud that she would sweep her off her hooves and they would have a happy dance of celebration right in the air.

CLANG!

"Oooooooohhh!!!" Gasped the crowd.

"And it's a TIE!!!" Pinkie announced.

Both mares lay on the ground, gazing into each others eyes.

Elation filled Fluttershy. She had done it! She had hit her fillyfriend, scoring a tie in a very physical sport that nopony would ever have considered her a candiadat.

"Oh my...." Fluttershy murmured, wide-eyed. "...Are...are you okay?" She asked softly.

"Of course I am!" Dash brushed her concern off, quickly jumping up to offer a helping hoof to her fillyfriend.

Blushing, her smile bright as ever, Fluttershy took the offering of her hoof and was helped to her hooves.

"Now KISS!" Pinkie declared, giggling like a school filly before zipping away for an unknown mission.

Without a second thought Fluttershy happily complied, pulling her champion in for a long passionate kiss. The small fire inside her became an open bonfire, causing her to shudder as euphoria spilled over her system. She had her prize and was determined to hold onto her for as long as possible.

Dash did admittedly feel pretty silly to be kissing her fillyfriend in front of a crowd, as well as earning cheers because of it, but at the same time, she couldn't complain. It was all part of saving the Crystal Empire, and it WAS still a cheering crowd. Even if it meant having to share a kiss for it and therefore shattering her "cool" reputation. But in an afterthought, Fluttershy's sweet and gentle nature always had its way of breaking through her. But then again, this kiss appeared to make them both seem cool in the eyes of the crystal ponies. Maybe it was okay to kiss her fillyfriend in front of them, it seemed to be helping them recover themselves.

Fluttershy pulled away to momentary gaze into the lidded shining eye's of her lover. This was an amazing experience, who'd have thought that they could be helping save a faraway kingdom with the power of their love!

The far off, but still booming and menacing voice of what they could only guess was the legendary King Sombra rang out and the blissful world around the two loves disappeared, replaced by a haze of fear. Dark storm clouds bellowed overhead, closing in on the once-peaceful and sunny environment of the atmosphere.

Cries of fear rang out from the audience and many immediately started to rush off to hide.

Now terrified, Fluttershy squealed in fear and hid up against Rainbow Dash, trembling in her armor. She could see now that the danger was approaching hard and fast. This being was able to curse and affect an entire Empire even after being defeated and sealed away...she could only imagine what he would be able to do now he was breaking through their defenses!

"Rainbow...! He's coming through! What will we do?!" Fluttershy cried in fear, tears in her eyes.

"Come on!" Dash cried, grabbing her quickly freezing up fillyfriend in her forehooves. "I'm taking you someplace safe!" She took off, powering along in the darkening sky, flying for the both of them.

Trembling, Fluttershy held fast to her lover in fear, but put her trust within her. She could only hope they would make it, hope that Rainbow would be able to face up against the beast. Regardless, she felt terrified and about to burst into hysterics. Already she regretted ever coming this way and wanted to go home even more.

The bold flyer gritted her teeth as she flew along. Carrying Fluttershy was no problem. Carrying a fully armoured Fluttershy whilst wearing full plate herself... now that was a problem. The added weight dragged at her, pulling the bold pegasus toward the ground despite her best efforts at staying aloft.

"Rainbow...we can...change out this armor....or at least I could..." Fluttershy managed, her voice strained.

"Nearly there, snuggly! Then I'll strip us down and keep you safe!" She flew on, wings burning toward the citadel where Shining Armour and Prince Cadence sat, the last of the magic was clearly draining from the noble alicorn and even from a distance, Rainbow Dash could tell that she was not going to make it much longer. But Rainbow knew that no matter what, she had to keep her own special somepony safe regardless of any consequences.

Unsure of what to do or what to say, considering the circumstances, all Fluttershy could think about were the possible tragic consequences. At least, on the forefront. She had faith in her friends, faith in Princess Cadence, despite that it was clear she was not going to last much longer. She had faith, she hoped with all her heart that they would make it. But it didn't stop the fear of the tragic possibilities.

Leaning in close, Fluttershy nuzzled her mare lightly. "I love you, Rainbow Dash..."

"I know, Fluttershy. I love you, too." The bold protector laid her precious cargo down next to the tiring princess. "Fluttershy..." She panted, 'Oh sweet Celestia, that was hard!' "Follow me, dear."

The royal couple gave the two pegasi a strange look as Fluttershy allowed herself to be led off.

As soon as the couple made it around the corner Dash rounded on her fillyfriend. "Right. Lets get this suit of armour off you. I want my snuggly wuggly to strip, right here right now!" She commanded, giggling like a silly school filly, offering a quick nuzzle for moral support.

Fluttershy blushed at the implications within, but realized that now was not the time. After all, it was meant for different reasons. She first took off her helmet, while Rainbow helped her remove the body armor. The pair quickly had her armour off and she immediately threw herself into the hooves of her protector and lover.

"Oh Dashie! I'm so happy we made it here safe!" She nuzzled the blushing pegasus for a moment, taking in the salty scent of her perspiring mare. "Now I get to help you out of your heavy armour." She blushed heavily, smiling shyly as she pulled away, gazing into the stunning cerise eyes of her marefriend.

"Oh....okay, you can help me out..." Dash smiled and rolled her eyes good-naturedly.

"Yay!" Giggled a very happy Fluttershy as she went to work on helping Dash remove her body armor.

The two removed the heavy plates quickly, Dash being a lot more skilled than her fillyfriend at removing her own armour. Fluttershy was delighted to see that there were no marks indicating where she had hit her precious pony whilst jousting. Removing the last armoured horse shoe, Fluttershy nuzzled into the powerful frame of her lover.

"Mmmmmmm.... My rainbow...." She cooed gently as she cuddled into the cyan plush. "My brave, brave, powerful rainbow..."

"Hey there snuggly. You planning on giving me a heart attack back there? Because your cuddles have enough cuteness to make my tough heart explode." She turned and planted a kiss on the cuddling pony's muzzle.

"Hee..." Fluttershy giggled, snuggling her. "Well....I just hope we'll all be okay...and I just want to spend any few moments we may have left just being with you, and loving you... To be there with all our friends..." She nuzzled into her neck, trying to keep her brave face.

"Oh good. I plan on keeping a close eye on my dear filly. I've had enough of you wandering off like that." Spectrum flashed as Dash nuzzled her lover back.

"I'm not going anywhere," Fluttershy promised, trying to fight back tears. "I'm staying here with all of you. I promise."

"All of me? But theres only one Rainbow Dash to go around baby!" The cheeky pegasus pulled away slowly, grinning.

But Fluttershy giggled and grabbed her back into a warm embrace, snuggling her. "And that one Rainbow Dash is all mine..."

"Just the way she likes it..." Dash almost purred back.

"Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy! What are you two doing here?" Rarity asked fromt the protective embrace of Applejack.

Pinkie bounded up to the two pegasi. "Oh! I know, I know! You two were stripping down to do something private weren't you?" A cheeky grin covered the random party pony's face.

"N-No....!" Fluttershy squeaked, shaking her head. "We just...we wanted to take the armour off since it was very heavy..."

"Ah know... Ol' Pinks was jus' being silly, wernt ya Pinkie Pie?" The farmer threw the culprit a menacing stare.

"Who me?" Pinkie fell on the floor giggling. "I'm always silly, silly!"

"Well for your information, you guys, I just don't want Fluttershy to be that scared and start panicking, that's all," Dash said matter-of-factly.

Fluttershy nodded, blushing heavily. "Yes..."

"I can tell, anything like that can wait til we are back in Ponyville." Rarity interjected as she nuzzled a blushing Applejack. "I think we should go and check on the Princess though. I have a dreadful feeling that she is feeling most poorly."

"You guys go ahead, we'll be right there!"

"Awright, we'll be out with 'em on tha' balcony," said Applejack. "Let's go, y'all... Ah hope Twi's got somethin' up her sleeve."

"Where is that unicorn?" Dash asked from within the loving hold of her fillyfriend.

"I do believe she and Spike are gone to find the Crystal Heart..." Rarity responded thoughtfully as the the other ponies left the room to rejoin the Prince and Princess on the balcony of the palace.

"That pony's going to steal my spot and defeat King Sombra isn't she?" Dash was growing more even more annoyed. "I think I need to head up there and show everypony that nopony can beat me."

"Rainbow, please, no!" Fluttershy cried. "Stay here with us!"

"They'll slow me down. Come on Fluttershy!" Dash extracted herself from the hold of desperate mare.

"W-Wait! No...!" Squeaked the terrified pony.

Rainbow followed her other friends out onto the balcony where Rarity and Applejack were engaged, trying to calm the crystal ponies below.

A very sad Fluttershy followed her fillyfriend out only to have the bold pegasus back away from her, placing Pinkie Pie in between them like some kind of shield. Fluttershy let out a sigh of resignation 'She doesn't want to be with me now...'

Just then, the magic from the royal alicorn ran out, Cadence almost fainted as her last reserves failed her to the cruel laughter from the evil king. Ponies below cried out in panic.

"Well then I'll just have to go on my own! You stay there, on that balcony! I'll be able to keep an eye on you there Flutters." Dash lept up and gave her partner a parting kiss on the muzzle, before turning to gallop off, ready to fly into battle.

"Nooooooooooo!" Fluttershy yelled in anguish, reaching toward her in vain. But it was too late. She was gone. And nothing would change her mind. She wouldn't even catch up to her fast enough. "...Rainbow..."

Tears in her eyes, but trying to fight them back, the saddened pegasus slowly trudged over and sat at the back of the balcony trying to put the horryfying sounds from below out of her mind.

'This is going to be it, isn't it...? Are we really doomed? ...Rainbow...please come back here...at least stay with me...with us...to the end...' Fluttershy thought.

A cry from above caused the distraught mare to pull out of her distressed state. Fluttershy recognized it...it was Spike! He had the crystal heart! Her own heart did a leap, maybe things would work out okay after all.

A deadly roar sounded from below, "That is mine!"

Fluttershy 'eeped!' in fear and rushed off. She had to find Rainbow Dash, that was the only pony who could protect her. She couldn't let this go on, not like this. She couldn't let Rainbow go out there against this...this thing all by herself.

"Rainbow...! Rainbow...! Rainbow Dash where are you?! Rainbow!" Fluttershy yelled into the corridors inside, frantically trying to find her. "Rainbow!!"

"Fluttershy!" The equally panicked call from above reached her ears.

A burst of relief coursed through the frightened pegasus. "Rainbow...! Rainbow, I'm here! I'm here! Come back here, please! Please...! Don't leave me!"

Without any warning, a rainbow streak appeared, crashing into Fluttershy, sending both pegasi tumbling along. "I'm so sorry Fluttershy!" Dash cried, hugging her fillyfriend. "I shouldn't have left you. Now King Sombra's free! I need to get us both to safety."

"Let's go...to the balcony...if nothing else, we have to support Princess Cadence..." Fluttershy whispered, her voice shaking as she clung tightly to her lover. Tears poured down her cheeks as she buried her face in her neck.

"But Cadence failed! You saw that." Dash tried to defend her position as tears dampened her coat.

"But what happens if we can help again. You know... like we did in the arena with the crystal ponies. Our love might be able to help her." The shaking yellow mare pleaded. "It's...it's a long shot...but it's something we can do to try to help... I love you.... Rainbow I love you... And...and....my answer is yes."

"Yes?" The bold mare replied without understanding.

Fluttershy smiled through her tears, laying their foreheads together as she embraced her beloved. "....I'll marry you, Rainbow..."

A massive cheeky grin washed away the shy pony's fears.

"Oh yes?! I would love that!!" She leaned in and planted a kiss upon Fluttershy's glowing face. "Now lets go! We've got a princess to save!" She galloped off with her lover and future wife in tow.
"Yes!" Fluttershy agreed, feeling a whole new sense of confidence and excitement. Things were really looking up after all, and it just took a little moment of love. Even if a little. She too felt prepared to face this, no matter what would happen.

The pegasus couple burst back out onto the balcony only to spot the failed alicorn.

"Dash? What do we do?" Fluttershy pleaded.

I know. Come here you!" The bold warrior grabbed her shy lover and pulled her into a sweet kiss that froze time.

xxxxx

"Oh Rainbow. I'm so happy that worked." Crystal Fluttershy nuzzled her equally crystalized fillyfriend.

Crystal Rainbow Dash grinned widely, nuzzling her back. She admired just how amazingly beautiful Fluttershy looked as a crystal pony. If she'd been so adorably beautiful in the past, it just increased, tenfold.

"Hey Fluttershy. You should soo get Cadence to do this at our wedding. It makes you really shine. As in... I can hardly keep my hooves off you kind of shine." She nudged her crystal companion gently, knowingly.

Amazingly, Crystal Fluttershy blushed heavily and giggled, "And you look gorgeous as well, Rainbow... Hee...I think we should get Princess Cadence to do this again..."

"Me? I'm awesome. But I'll let you confuse that with good looking.' The cocky pony stroked her crystalized mane gently.

"Yes you are, and you know it," Fluttershy smiled brightly.

"Okay, for you, I'm gorgeous..." Dash admitted, proudly standing by her mare as the others celebrated around them.

Giggling, Fluttershy nuzzled her gently and also observed the celebration going on. Now the Crystal Heart had been returned to its rightful place, its full power restored. As well as that, Spike had been a great help in saving the day. The rest of the ponies couldn't help but find that to be wonderful. He was finally getting a little recognition he completely deserved.

Amidst the cheering, the two pegasi never strayed from each other's side, as their love helped even just a little bit.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Fluttershy nuzzled into her protectors soft mane. Although it had been awesome getting to be made of crystal for a short period of time, it felt nice to be back to normal.

They were all now on the train ride back to Canterlot, feeling mixtures of exhausted from the tough day, and yet still very excited from all the events.

"I'm off to go see Twilight!" Spike announced, happily abandoning the presence of the cuddling duos in the room for something a little less lovey-dovey.

"Poor Spike Wikey." Rarity commented from within the light grasp of Applejack. "I'm sure he'll come round soon enough."

"O' course he will! He's a hero now, an' Ah'm sure he'll be celebrated by tha time we get back ta Ponyville!" Applejack remarked with a grin.

"Oh yes." Fluttershy agreed, snuggling into her own lovers forehooves. "I'm sure he will. A wedding will also lighten him up." She giggled softly, allowing her cheeks to heat up.

"A weddin'?" Applejack repeated. "Who's gettin' married?"

"How lovely, darling! A wedding! Do tell! Who's wedding?" Rarity asked, eager.

"It's not official yet." Dash defended, playing with her fillyfriend's mane. "We've just both said yes."

Applejack's jaw dropped and Rarity's eyes went wide, both mares staring with surprise at the two cuddling pegasi.

Fluttershy giggled with glee and kissed her lover's cheek. "Yes, we have.... We'll see when....but for now..."

"I have my snuggly wuggly and she has me." Rainbow giggled. "Just don't tell anypony else. I don't want to lose my reputation for awesomeness."

"OOOOHHH!! You guys are getting married?!" Pinkie popped out of nowhere behind their seats, grinning. "Then I'll have to throw you a wedding shower!! Fluttershy, you're the bride, right? Okay! I'll throw you a bachelorette party! And one for you too, Dashie!"

"N-no... I'll be f-fine..." Fluttershy did her best to evade the offer of a party.

"Why don't we just have one big party? Then I can be there for you Flutters." The bold mare nuzzled her companion's cheek lovingly.

Looking relieved, the creamy yellow pony nodded and smiled, "That sounds wonderful, Rainbow."

"I'll make the dresses dears!" Rarity interjected with an excited look upon her face. "This will be so much fun."

"Jes' don' have too much fun there Rar'. Ah' don't need mah good friend going and fogetting about everypony else jus' case there's a weddin'." Applejack chided.

But Rarity didn't listen, "Do tell! Have you set a date? A possible time when this shall be?!"

"Erm..." Fluttershy blinked, looking to Rainbow for help.

"No! Not yet. Give Fluttershy and me time. We'll figure it out. Then you can go get all excited over how awesome it's going to be." The bold pegasus spoke for them both.

"All right, but do I wish to know as soon as you figure it out!" Rarity winked, giggling.

As the moment passed, Fluttershy couldn't help but whisper, "You know...I always did imagine we'd marry in the spring..."

"Yes..." Dash grinned cheekily at her. "Then I can say... This is mine." She motioned to the whole of the pegasus in her hold, grinning like an elated school filly who had just won a prize.

"Well somepony wants some action I see." Rarity commented, a soft smirk adorning her features.

"Rarity...." Fluttershy blushed, hiding her face in Rainbow's neck shyly.

"What?" The alabaster mare glanced appealingly across at Applejack for support.

"Awright, y'all stop bein' silly..." Applejack chuckled, looking from one pony to the other. "Whaddya say, RD? Mind keepin' her a bit busy?" She indicated to Fluttershy. "Ah got this one."

"Well... I certainly won't mind." Dash grinned cheekily back. "Dear Flutters won't either. She enjoyed me getting a little too close just before we jousted. So I'm sure I can count on her support." She winked at her blushy lover.

Fluttershy giggled with shyness, but smiled. "Sure, Dashie... But not too much, we still have to wait until we get home. ...Until then...it does feel a little bit cold..." She winked.

"Well I'm guess I can fix that with my super awesomeness." A cyan wing descended upon the cuddling mare, covering her in a loving embrace.

Warm fuzzies flooded their systems, giving the pair of pegasi snuggled up a small elating buzz of joy. They slowly allowed themselves to fall asleep, contented, ready to enjoy the ride home together.

Despite the frigid air in the carriage, everypony inside felt the bubbly warmth of love.