//------------------------------// // Chapter 9: Sing the night away! (Part 2/2) // Story: Be Mine // by ThatChangelingGit //------------------------------// Be Mine Chapter 9: Sing the night away! (Part 2/2) After the bundle of pink that is Pinkie Pie bundled her way through the Fennec’s Ears to reunite with her friends, Twilight and Starlight eventually made their entrance into the main bar area. Starlight headed to the bar to order them drinks, whilst Applejack and her other half, Rarity, made their way over. “Twilight!” Applejack exclaimed in a hearty tone, as she rose from her barstool to meet her old friend. Rarity followed suit as the couple exchanged hugs between Twilight and the couple. “How ya doin’ sugarcube? You’re lookin’ all dressed up! Not in your fancy scientist robes.” Applejack jested as she gently nudged her arm. Twilight chuckled and bashfully rubbed her arm. Rarity scanned her outfit, from head to toe, and grew an affirming grin. “Darling, you look utterly divine, taking a leaf out of my book?” Rarity asked, in a similar endearing tone, something that she had started to copy from her partner. The two had seemingly already started to rub off on one another’s dialects. “Hey girls!” Twilight said warmly as she hugged both of them tightly. “Oh, well thank you both, I thought I’d try and make an effort tonight, seeing how I usually wear the same thing, do the same hair.” She chuckled gently, as did both Applejack and Rarity. “But I won’t lie, there has been some inspiration from yourself Rarity, you have helped me many times before in the past, with how to style.” Twilight gestured at her outfit. It was a complete contrast to her ‘norm’. A long, form-fitting dress, adorned by a deep-blue blazer, that covered her shoulders. It was certainly slightly revealing. In recent memory, Twilight had gained some confidence from her friends, and more-so Rarity. “It is positively divine seeing you all dressed up like this, and joining us for a drink, and hopefully, a song or two.” Rarity smirked as she rose her cocktail to her ivory lips. “Because, I do plan on having a great time tonight… something feels special about tonight. Having all of our friends together under one roof, having a few drinks… being close with the ones we love.” Rarity gently spoke in her usual tone, but slowly moved herself closer to Applejack, and even sneakily wrapped her arm around her Farmgirl’s generous waist. Twilight nodded in agreement, but most certainly noticed Rarity’s hand placement. Rarity had always been a communicator through touch, but there was no denying that Twilight suspected something. Nonetheless, Twilight smiled politely. “Yes, I agree, it’s about time we did something like this, I mean, we all have Fluttershy’s BBQ to look forward to! I just hope I don’t burn up like I did last year.” Twilight laughed, as did the couple before her. “Though, you have to thank Starlight for fully convincing me to come out tonight. She has been a rock for me recently.” Twilight said with a gentle exhale as she glanced over to the pinkish girl by the bar, who, in response gave her a gentle wave. Twilight bashfully waved back with a warmed grin. Applejack chuckled and leant into Rarity’s touch. It was her little Achillies heel, the way Rarity wrapped around her. “I know what ya’ll mean, Twi, I ain’t gonna lie, Rare’s here has been my rock as of recent. I must admit, she’s been a gem, as she always has been.” Applejack said with her honeyed warm tone, as she glanced down at her other half, who had clung to her side more affectionately. “Oh darling, you’re so positively sweet to little old me.” Rarity cooed, as her pitch heightened. Applejack had noticed whenever Rarity felt appreciated, or loved, her tone typically rose in height, as did the hue in her cheeks. Her fashionista girlfriend leant up and placed an audible smack of a kiss on her freckled cheek. Twilights brow rose even further, but her smile remained. “Ahhh, so Sunset wasn’t drunk texting me then.” Twilight chuckled. “You two… I’m assuming are a thing?” Twilight asked gently. She had always been polite and caring friend; she never wanted to assume or accuse without any solid proof. Much like her scientific research and studies. “Why yes, we are darling. Admittedly, Applejack and I were at first unsure whether to tell everyone tonight. But it felt right, so, yes, Applejack and I are in a committed relationship.” Rarity paused, to gently gaze up at her taller and broader girlfriend. “And I could not be happier.” Rarity exhaled with the most genuine of smiles. A single tug at her lips that showed everything, every thought and feeling of love and true adoration for Applejack. Twilight remained silent for a moment, but broke the silence by pulling both of them into a deep, affectionate hug. “You are some of my best friends. You both truly deserve this happiness, and that you’ve found it in each other, after all this time is truly amazing. I’m so happy for you both.” Twilights voice was incredibly soft, near emotional. Twilight had relied on these women for many of her formulative years. To find them finding true love, was perfect for her. Rarity and Applejack joined the embrace and said their thank you’s. Although Rarity did let out a little sniff and fought against her tear ducts, to not cry. “Oh darling, you know drinking makes me more emotional.” Rarity said to add some comedic catharsis, even if it was the truth. Both Twilight and Applejack laughed. “Well, don’t you all look happy.” Starlight said with a chuckle as she approached the small trio huddled up together. “Here Twilight, I thought I’d treat you to a drink, you can get the next round.” Starlight winked as she handed Twilight a rather summery coloured cocktail. “It’s a Sex on The Beach, got a whole bunch of juice and peach schnapps and vodka in there for ya. I may have ‘convinced’ the bartender to add more.” Starlight winked as she flashed a small handful of cash. “Starlight, you shouldn’t have, thank you.” Twilight suddenly went red in the face as the more casually dressed Starlight glimmer next to her and the couple. Starlight simply waved her off. “Don’t be silly, like I said my treat, you deserve it, after making all this effort, to look this good tonight. Sexy dress needs a sexy drink after all.” Starlight said nonchalantly as Twilights blush grew deeper. “But hey! Been a while you two. Still getting used to walking on two legs, but Sunset said I’ll get used to it soon.” Applejack leet out a hearty laughed, and gave Starlight a gentle hug, with her usual firm pat on the back. “Hell Starlight, don’t get too drunk now, otherwise you’ll be spendin’ the entire night on all fours, prancin’ around like some show pony in the nationals.” Applejack said in her usual teasing tone. Starlight laughed gently. “Hah! If I do end up doing that, just hand me a sugar lump, and I’ll realise then and there, I should be standing up straight. Still, I think I’ve got the hang of it… I mean, I refuse to wear heels, too impractical for me, so, vans it is. I don’t know how you do it Rarity.” Starlight said with a wide smile as she sipped on what seemed to be an Espresso Martini. “It’s all in the stride, the walk, the pizazz and the hips darling, you must walk it, and flaunt it at the same time, as anyone could be staring.” Rarity’s eye gently glanced up again at Applejack. “Oh yes sugarcube, all in them swingin’ hips of yours now ain’t it.” Applejack said as her arm wrapped around Rarity’s petit shoulders. Rarity giggled and nuzzled into Applejack’s side. “Oh of course you’d notice my dear, you always notice when it comes to my… as you say, ahem, rump.” Rarity said beneath her breath as a delightfully rosy hue started to creep across her pale cheeks. Applejack smirked as Rarity, was noticeably flustered, even by her small remark towards her hips. Starlight laughed at both responses, although she hadn’t had known the Mane Seven and the Dazzling’s for as long, she still appreciated their company. “I suppose your right, though, I don’t think I’ve always been the ‘girly’ girl, much like yourself Rarity, no offense.” Starlight said with a slight awkward chuckle, and a slightly larger sip of her drink. Even still, Starlight had noticed how Rarity had suddenly became bashful around Applejack after her comment. “No need to apologise my dear, you’re not the first, nor will you be the last to point that out. Though, we all have our own unique styles and interests, and that’s what makes my line of work interesting, I could happily revel in all the designer wear I want, or design myself, but I’ll always apperciate one’s own styling, and aesthetic, if you will. One I can safely say I apperciate more than often at the moment, is my darling Applejack’s southern charm.” Rarity said with a gentle softness in her voice as her hand gently trailed up and down her girlfriend’s broad back, stroking it gingerly, and brushing the fabric of her checkered shirt with the tips of her ivory fingers. Applejack shivered slightly, but not enough to warrant any attention or prying eyes. Starlight smiled at Rarity’s comment. “Which is why I will always come to you about what to wear, you don’t judge, unlike any of those Crystal Prep kids.” Starlight rolled her eyes. “Speakin’ of which, we got a story to tell now don’t we sugarcube, ‘bout some Crystal Prep bastards gettin’ their behinds whooped.” Applejack winked at Rarity, to which she smirked in reply. “My oh my, yes we do darling, its quite the tale, girls, better get yourself another drink, because oh my, is there a bit to tell.” Rarity grinned as she waved over the bartender. -o0o- “And then she fully kicked him right in the balls! He fully gagged and fell right to his knees and begged to AJ before she clobbered him with his broken stupid fuckin’ croquet bat.” Rainbow cackled as she told the tale of Applejack’s heroics, to Sunset and the Dazzling’s. The entire group of girls erupted with laughter and small gasps as Rainbow had been detailing the event, with some of her own added emphasis to the group. Fluttershy had been smiling affirmatively the entire time, nodding along with her partner. Though, as she and Rainbow had discussed, they were keeping their relationship secret, until the time felt right. Nonetheless, the girls seemed to be revelling in Rainbows dramatic retelling of, as she dubbed it, ‘The Blueblood Incident.’ Pinkie Pie giggled at Rainbow’s retelling, especially at the ‘kicked in the balls’ part. She giggled so much, she snorted, which set off another round of laughter. “Sorry! Sorry!” She said between laughs. “But I can just imagine his stupid lil face!” Pinkie said through giggles, to which Fluttershy gently laughed as she clutched onto her mixed drink. “I-It was rather amusing; even if I was so scared, he was going to actually do something to all of us. He even said he’d buy the land.” Fluttershy said with a slightly raised voice, due to the loudness of the music, she did want to be heard, and through her time with Rainbow, her confidence had grown. Sonata smiled at Fluttershy. “Pfft, nah, snobby pricks like that aren’t worth worrying about, me and the girls have had our fair share of nobheads like that, and they’ve never gone through with any threats like that.” Sonata chuckled. “I mean, I’ll never forget this one time, this Canterlot snob tried to ban my favourite taco-stand because it ‘offended his sight’, and because of his tantrum, it only got busier!” Sonata chuckled and shuffled in her seat, which so happened to be Aria’s lap. “Ugh, good, I am glad that Applejack stood up, not only for just her partner, but the rest of you as well, I bet her kick sent his balls back inside of him, where they belong, so he can’t produce any fetid offspring.” Adagio said with a roll of her eyes and a long sip of her drink through her straw. “What a man-child though, coming up to you guys and simply having a go, because you were enjoying yourselves. No wonder him and Celestia are estranged. But did anything else happen? Did he cry and run away, holding his crotch?” Sunset pried as she leant against the bar and took hold of her third drink. Rainbow nodded eagerly, and Fluttershy, in unison, also nodded enthusiastically. “Oh, fuck yeah, I mean, I was getting ready to kick his ass as well, that was until Applejack tagged Rarity in. I mean, he is her ex after all, so I thought I would be only fair to let her have a go of showing him who’s boss.” Rainbow chuckled. “Oh yes!” Fluttershy chimed. “Rarity was so brave as well, standing up to that big bad bully of a man. A-Applejack had dragged him to the plunge ice pool, the one Dashy and Applejack used, and Rarity promptly kicked him in!” Fluttershy said with a giggle in her throat as she explained what Rarity had done. Once again, the crowd of girls erupted into laughter, and it seemed that Rarity and Applejack was telling a very similar story to Twilight and Starlight. “We couldn’t help but notice how ya’ll seem to be laughin’ like a bunch of hyenas.” Applejack teased the group. “I’m assumin’ Rainbow’s tellin’ tales again?” Applejack asked as herself and the other three had joined the larger group of girls. “Yeah, RD and Flutters were just telling us all about how you both kicked Bluebloods ass and dunked him in freezing water.” Aria responded and rose her glass towards Rarity and Applejack with a silent approving nod. “Well, I had to teach him a lesson, that heartless little boy needed to be scolded.” Rarity pouted playfully. In truth, she revelled in getting revenge against Blueblood, especially with the way he had treated her in the past. “I haven’t even gotten to what he did after AJ, the way he fucking squealed like a little princess.” Rainbow chuckled as she patted her best friends back. Adagio’s eyes grew wide at the comment. “Ohh~ do tell Rainbow, don’t keep a girl waiting, I’d love to know how much he squirmed in that freeze pool.” Adagio said with a devilish grin, one that made Sunset grin herself. “Go ahead RD, tell them, I don’t remember seein’ much other than red at that point.” Applejack said heartily. “He was crashing and splashing about as if he didn’t know how to swim, and then he gets up out of the pool, after like three of four failed attempts and no real help from his ‘posh friends.’” Rainbow laughed, before Rarity chimed in. “Not to mention darling, how he was crying like a spoilt little prince at this moment too, how his suit was ruined and his pristine hair too, he looked like a sodden dog.” Rarity said with a rather amused tone of voice, that caused her to smile a little wider than usual. “I think the f-funniest thing was his scowled face, how he tried to act all mean towards the four of us, but all he did was raise his middle finger and run away with his followers.” Fluttershy also chimed in as she chuckled at the thought of his maddened face and pathetic attempt of trying to be intimidating. “Hah! And he thought teaching four women that he was a rich pompous asshole was going to be intimidating, if you want to see intimidating, then look no further than Adagio in a bad mood.” Sunset said with a broad teasing smirk as she gazed up towards the tall, frizzed and curled haired woman standing beside her, who shared a similar grin. “Oh, Sunset Shimmer, don’t you know it. You’ve been victim to my aggression, at least once or twice, especially whenever you attempt to do PvP on anything.” Adagio said with a slight playful tone. “Even though I’ve beaten your ass plenty of times, you still come crawling back for more, don’t you? Silly Shimmer.” Adagio’s grin turned wolf like, an underline hunger that Sunset responded to, by drinking her drink, rather quickly. Rarity had noticed this and whispered in Applejack’s ear. “Do you think Rainbow and Fluttershy will come out first? Or will Sunset and Adagio start dating first?” Rarity asked, almost as if she was gauging a bet. Applejack’s brow rose as she leant back and whispered in reply. “I’m not much of a bettin’ woman, but I tell you what, my money’s on Adagio and Sunset bein’ a thang before RD and Flutters get all public.” Applejack said in a confident whisper. “So, what are we putting up then darling?” Rarity asked. “If I win the bet, then you and I are gonna go shootin’ and I don’t mean just huntin’, I mean, at a range, you and me, quadbikes and guns, tank tops and desert, flame grilled food, nothin’ fancy, just outdoors fun.” Applejack grinned. To her, that sounded like a brilliant idea. Before Rarity had fallen in love with her, it was her idea of hell. But now, as a couple, they were going to be interested in the same and different things, but it was a chance to try new things out. Besides, with Applejack as company, Rarity wasn’t going to complain… that much. Rarity fell silent, before she started to speak. “Very well. If I win the bet, then you and I are spending a weekend in Canterlot, a hotel, private resort, whatever, we’re going to go and splurge some money I’ve saved for such an occasion, we will dress up and go to a theatre to watch a performance of some kind, so long as you are happy to try a few of the more delicate. Perhaps we can go to a vineyard and spend some time in a warm country, and have some gorgeous, gourmet food.” Rarity had nearly gotten ahead of herself, and in her whisper ramble, had started to daydream about a fancy vacation with her other half. Applejack chuckled and gently placed a kiss on her forehead. “Alrighty sugarcube, bets a bet, either way I’m game, my bets on Sunset, and yours is on RD, right?” Applejack asked. Rarity smiled at the gentle kiss and nodded silently. “Yes, I think th-.” Rarity had begun to whisper before she was cut off by a very loud Pinkie Pie who stood in the middle of the circled gang. “Helllooo~ Earth to lovebirds! Who’s ready to use the karaoke machine!” Pinkie screamed out as the crowd of friends around her cheered, even little Fluttershy and her typical quiet cheers, was a little louder than usual. Perhaps it was down to the drink, or the presence of her secret girlfriend, or even it was a combination of the two. Either way, it seemed everyone was primed and ready for a few songs, and many, many drinks. -o0o- “Touching meeee~ Touching youuuu~ Girl you’re touching meee~ I believe in a thing called love! Just listen to the rhythm of my heart!” Sonata sang into the microphone, admittedly a little giddier than most, but certainly filled with passion. When the Dazzling’s necklaces shattered many months ago, their ability to sing was all but gone away, vanished into horrendous voices. However, through the tutorage of the Mane 7 and their newfound friendship, together, they had learnt to harness their voices in a beautiful harmony once again. Despite that, it seemed the several shots that Sonata had necked, was not doing her many favours. Aria was her singing partner and kept her in time, even if the two kept on laughing and taking pauses for breathes. The group cheered them on, and even some of the other patrons of the Fennec’s Ears applauded their attempt of singing the higher pitches. Aria and Sonata were most certainly drunk and had been staying relatively close to one another. Even during their time on the karaoke machine, the two kept on bumping into each other, giggling like schoolgirls and even had to cling on, in case they fell, which throughout the length of the song, they had nearly done so, several times. “Sing it girls! That’s my bad bitches!” Adagio screamed from the black leather curved sofa that sat to the right of the stage. She was joined by Sunset, and Rarity and Applejack. “I have to admit Adagio, I’m glad to see them two getting’ along, I remember durin’ all that Battle of the Bands shit, that they weren’t the best of friends. You had to be like a parent to both of ‘em.” Applejack chuckled as she sipped on her whiskey sour. Rarity had taken the luxury of being sat next to her other half, and rested against her, with one of Applejack’s arms around her waist and her hand on her lap. “I know, they used to be utter bitches to one another, well, more so Aria towards Sonata. Aria was cruel to her, but in my blindness at the time, I only ever saw our goal in mind, I never really paid any attention to what was around me… that was until you came along, all of you, and made me see.” Adagio paused and gazed up to the drunk duo on the stage. She caught Twilight, Starlight, and Rainbow all cheering like teenage fangirls. Adagio grew a large smile. “I don’t know if this is the drink speaking, or my inner thoughts, but thanks to you, I have my perfect friends back, being their silly selves and I have to say it… I love you all for it.” Adagio said as she waved over a waiter. “So, I’m buying a whole round of drinks, for you sexy bitches, and no you can’t stop me.” Adagio said as she ordered another round of shots, on top of the order placed by Pinkie just a few moments ago. “Darling that’s totally unnecessary… but thank you ever so much.” Rarity said with a higher tone, the effects of her drinks had caused her rather regal manner of speaking, to slightly heighten. “We’re your friends now, and we love you just the same… well, aside for the love I have for my girlfriend.” Rarity added. It seemed that she loved to flaunt when she was drunk. Old habits died hard, and Rarity did adore having some spotlight on her, or an item she possessed, an outfit she wore, or the person she adored. “Well consider it a toast to friendship, getting my girls back, and you being with Applejack then! A win-win I’d say.” Adagio laughed as she reached up and paid for the drinks on the waiter’s card machine. Did she check the price? No. Did she care? Not at all. Rarity gave adagio a bemused smile and laughed along with. Sunset tapped Adagio’s thigh. “After Rarity and Applejack have their song, we’re up next, you and I, Dagi.” Sunset cooed as she leant onto Adagio’s arm. “Like I think I have the perfect song too. Seeing as were both into rock, metal etc, and because we’re y’know, a bit drunk, I think I have something that will liven this place up. Especially, our vocals, our looks, together, it’s gonna be lit.” Sunset said with a cheesy smile, as she gestured to both herself and Adagio when speaking of their looks. Adagio pulled an expression of thought, as she weighed up what Sunset was saying. “You make excellent points my dear Shimmer. Alright fine, we’re next, it better be a good song Sunset, one that gives the both of us plenty of attention~.” Adagio grinned as she sat back and sank into the sofa slightly, which caused Sunset, who was leant against her to fall back as well. Both women giggled with flirtatious murmurings. Rarity looked up at Applejack, who only winked in return as she spoke gently. “Bets still on pretty girl, don’t you worry now. They ain’t kissed yet.” “Hmph, I can tell you secretly want to win, because you want to shoot guns in the middle of an arid desert and get some BBQ… which I do admit, does sound divine, especially the BBQ bit.” Rarity admitted. “But it’s still on, and that vineyard trip, might have our name on it.” Rarity said confidently and raised a quirked brow at Applejack, who laughed a little. “It might do sugarcube. But looks like it’s our time to shine on the stage.” Applejack patted one of Rarity’s hips and pressed a kiss to her deep purple coloured hair. Rarity smiled in response and grabbed Applejack’s shirt by the collar and pulled her down slightly to kiss her on the lips. The two continued to kiss, their thoughts about the outside world and current surroundings vanished. Despite their best attempts to block the outside world, their kiss gained everyone’s attention, and they all started to cheer in a teasing manner as the two kissed. Both girls laughed into the kiss and broke the moment, as Sonata and Aria left the makeshift stage. “Jeeze, I didn’t realise Sonata and I were that hot, if you’re that turned on, the bathrooms are round the back.” Aria laughed as she sauntered her way off the stage and passed the couple. On her way pass she gently punched Applejacks upper arm. A sign of their friendship. The attention of the group returned to the stage however, as Pinkie, who had seemingly drunk the most out of the entire group, had remained her usual self, if not, slightly more hyper, but still acting as she usually did, had taken the roll of compère for the evening. “Ladies and Gentlemen! But mainly you lovely ladies.” Pinkie winked towards the girls. “That was the lovely duo of Sonata and Aria, but now we’ve got a real doozey! A real treato, a treat like a Banana Split with extra sprinkles and double ice-cream! And a layer of double chocolate sauce and added marshmallows and-.” Pinkie was cut off by Twilight who simply yelled out: “PINKIE!” To catch her attention. “Oops!” Pinkie laughed, which gained a laugh from all of them once more. “Next up, it’s everyone’s new favourite couple. The Southern Girl, whose charm knows no bounds, she’s like 6ft 1 and has a Fashionista girlfriend, who has a body everyone drools for, and a fashion sense that no one can deny is immaculate! Give it up for Applejack and Rarity! WOOO RARIJACK RARIJACK RARIJACK!” Pinkie cheered and began to chant. Which Rainbow, Aria and Starlight were keen to follow suite. “Oh, I’ve suddenly gone all nervous darling.” Rarity said as she rose from the comforts of the black sofa. Her hand clutched onto Applejacks sturdy and tight gripping hand. Applejack too rose from her cushioned seat and gave her a smile and raised brow. “Come on now, you’ve been in front of snootin’ fancy folk, you’ve battled against literal sirens, but singin’ in front of your friends, a little drunk is makin’ you nervous, besides you’re singin’ with me, I got you’re back sugarcube.” Applejack spoke proudly, and gave her a firm, but not hard pat on her back. “Now I wanna see that ass of yours next to me on that stage, come on now.” Applejack said sternly. She had learnt in their time together, that being firm, but fair was the best way to get through Rarity’s anxieties. The Fashionista had always been approving of Applejack’s method and always appreciated the little pep talks she offered. “Excellent points as always darling.” Rarity smiled and pressed a kiss to her cheek. “Though, what are we singing? I’m assuming country?” She asked softly, it was a genre that she knew Applejack adored, but she barely knew any country songs. “Naw, I got something better, I’ve heard you ‘n Sweetie Belle sing it sometimes, and I think I know it, simply from you two singin’ all the time.” Applejack chuckled. “It’s ‘Still into You’, and I think it fits, ‘specially with the way I feel around you, honeybun.” Applejack said warmly as she pressed another kiss to Rarity’s lips. “You’re so lovely, you know that right?” Rarity cooed. “Oh, I know, now come on you, lets get ourselves on that stage, and make this entire bar stare at us.” Applejack winked as she playfully dragged Rarity up the small staircase, as they ascended the stairs to the makeshift stage, they were met by thunderous applause, wolf whistles, regular whistles and Pinkies continued chanting of ‘Rarijack.’ Within moments, Rarity’s fears had vanished as she stood beside her other half on the stage. The music immediately started with no warning, mainly as Pinkie was so incredibly excited to see them perform, and if she hadn’t started the song, Rainbow would’ve. As the instrumental started a small applause and cheers from their group of friends echoed throughout the bar. Rarity found her rhythm and Applejack followed suite as the two started to dance on the stage, and Applejack took the lead with the lyrics. “Can’t count the years on one hand that we’ve been together.” Applejack sang, as her Southern honeyed accent oozed through onto her singing voice. There was no denying, that if she wanted to, if she pursued a career in music, as a country singer, she’d most certainly make it. Rarity’s face lit up like a firework as she heard her sing, oh how she adored it. Her blush only grew further, she just loved the way she sounded. It was no wonder that every time the girls sang together, she always partnered up with her. Rarity smiled and leant against her girlfriend and took hold of the microphone. “I need the other one to hold to make you feel, make you feel better.” Rarity’s smile beamed like a diamond, as she sang out one of her favourite songs, that now had become their song. Applejack too grinned, but not in the devilish or cheeky sort, no, this one was full of pride and love. Their voices soon combined into one harmony, one oozing full of Southern soul, the other, incandescent, radiant beauty, harmonizing together. “This is my girl everybody! Ain’t no one havin’ her!” Applejack yelled out during the instrumental breakdown. Rarity giggled bashfully and hid her face in Applejack’s shoulder. This cry out from the Farmgirl earnt her a round cheering from the crowd that was made up of her closest friends. She made eye contact with Rainbow during the guitar breakdown, where her best friend gave her an approving wink, which Applejack nodded back at her. “I should be over all the butterflies, but I’m into you! (I’m into you) and baby even on our worst nights I’m into you! Let ‘em wonder how we got this ‘cause I don’t really need to wonder at all. I’m still into you!” Both their voices radiated through out the night, their friends became their fully engrossed audience and sang along heartily. Throughout the song, the couple exchanged dances, twirls and embraces as they faced the crowd, proud to reveal who they are, who they truly are, no secrets, and to be embraced fully by their friends, meant so much to the both of them. As the song ultimately ended, the pair took a prideful bow and gave the audience one last show, as they kissed on stage, earning an applause much like Sonata and Aria did. Rarity now flooded with confidence and adoration she turned to the audience and yelled: “And this is my woman! My darling!” Which was received by another round of cheers by her friends. Pinkie entered the stage once more, glass in hand, full of what appeared to be a colourful, yet glittery gin. “GIVE IT UP FOR RARITY AND APPLEJACCCKK!” She screamed, not even having to use a microphone. Once more the cheers and applause, not only from their closest friends, but strangers who had also entered the bar carried on. As the couple left the stage, Twilight and Starlight headed to the two of them and handed them the drinks, that Adagio and Pinkie had so kindly bought them. “You two! Oh my god, that was incredible! I’m such a Paramore fan, and you two singing that, just brought so much joy to my soul, oh my god, you crushed it! And props to both of you for being able to stand up straight after fuck knows how many shots we’ve had.” Starlight said with a rather excited and awed expression on her face. “Not gonna lie, I am itching to get on that machine, Twilight you’re up there with me and Sunset, and we have to get Fluttershy on there too.” Starlight patted Twilights arm. “If I hadn’t of had all of these shots, the answer would’ve been no, but you’re on Glimmer.” Twilight said with a slight grin, but her attention returned to the couple before her. “You two did great, can’t wait for more from the two of you later on, and the group song.” Twilight winked. “Darling’s you two are so kind! Thank you both, but I don’t think I’ve ever heard you sing before Starlight, its your chance to shine.” Rarity said as she clung to her partner’s arm. “Haha! Trust me, you don’t want to, I’ve got a terrible voice.” Starlight snorted with a laugh. Twilight however gently nudged her arm. “No, you don’t, you have a lovely voice, I’ve heard you sing multiple times with myself, and Sunset, and especially when you’re in the car, you’ve got a great voice Starlight, trust me.” Twilight said reassuringly, as she always did, her tonal delivery was incredibly heartwarming, even if her voice slightly slurred from how drunk she was. Applejack took her shot of Fireball and without even flinching from the warming shot, went straight to drinking her next drink, which seemed to be a Papa Doble. She shrugged and enjoyed the taste, nonetheless. Rarity however had been given a fairly flamboyant Cosmopolitan. Rainbow had taken the privilege of taking over Pinkie’s role as she decided to grab a ‘quick snack’ which consisted of, half of the bar snacks menu, delivered to their karaoke booth. Rainbow cleared her throat and spoke: “Alright you lot, how we all doing, are we having a great time?” Rainbow asked not only her friends, but the entire bar, that had decided to watch the show they had put on. All responded with a drunken cheer, which filled out the entire bar. “That’s what I’m fucking talking ‘bout! Next up, you all know her, queen of the Dazzling’s, and you all know her partner in crime, the badass biker bitch, the dynamic duo that is Sunset and Adagio!” Rainbow cried out with her usual raspiness. “Bets still on sugarcube.” Applejack whispered into Rarity’s ear. “Oh, I am aware darling.” Rarity chuckled. “Though. I have to say, Pinkie has the right idea, food, right now, is a must, and no, I don’t care how greasy it is, I want something, I swear drinking turns me into a pig.” Rarity said with a hearty laugh. “Ain’t nothin’ wrong with that, come on, lets gets some wings and drumsticks, I’m getting’ hungry, and besides, Pinkie’s gonna share, but it’s probably best to order some of our own.” Applejack said with a chuckle in her throat. Applejack proceeded to open the Fennec App on her phone, that way, neither of them had to leave their seats and miss out on any action, and potential bet winnings/losses. “Hey lovebirds, you two getting food?” Aria asked as she watched them started to order their phone. “’Cus Bugs and I were thinking of ordering too, she has no data and my phones dead, I’m happy to chuck you two cash if you’d like? I’d kill for a rack of ribs.” Aria said as she rubbed her stomach. “Oh, me toooo, I am so hungry I could eat ice, and I’ve got sensitive teeth!” Sonata exclaimed as she clung onto Aria’s shoulders from behind. “Sure, we saw Pinkie ordered a few bits, and we thought why the hell not?” Applejack chuckled. “Once me and Rare’s have ordered, I’ll hand you my phone, add what you want, and we’ll settle it later.” Applejack said softly. “Cheers AJ.” Aria said in her usual dry tone, but it was juxtaposed by her warmed smile. Sonata however had a smile on her face the entire time. “Thank you, AJ! I don’t know what to pick, because we’re having Mexican around yours Ari, then I don’t what to doooo.” Sonata pondered out loud, to which Aria simply laughed. In times gone by, Aria would have no doubt said something rather unnecessary to Sonata, how things have changed. -o0o- “Mmnf, I don’t care if I bloat out of my dress, I’ve needed this.” Rarity said as she gorged, drunkenly on a breaded chicken thigh. “Thank you, babe, you’re truly my knight in shining armour, saving me from a thug, singing with me, complimenting me, and now buying me carbs, chicken, and various drinks… you’re literally perfect.” Rarity exclaimed dramatically as she continued to feast on the meal before her, of various fried, breaded, and grilled bar snacks, accompanied by a hearty portion of both wedges and chips. “I love you.” Rarity said as she laid back against the padded couch. Applejack laughed heartily; she was pleased that her girlfriend was happy. “I love you too Rares, I just try my best as usual sugarcube.” Applejack said modestly as she too, feasted on the meal that had been laid out before them. Sonata and Aria had managed to find a corner, where the two of them fed on various things. Fluttershy and Rainbow decided to join them, as Starlight and Twilight joined with Pinkie to share her food. “Damn Rarity, you’re going in! Never thought I’d see you fully snacking like this.” Rainbow teased as she snacked on her wings. “Rainbow darling, you’ve seen me drunk, and eaten like a slob many times, though I may like to keep up appearances, but when I’m this hungry, I do not care. Especially around -urp- loved ones.” Rarity said with a laugh. It was like seeing another side of her. But a side, that Applejack still loved. Fluttershy had taken the liberty of sitting next to Rarity as Rainbow sat next to Applejack. She gingerly lent over and picked up the plastic pot of fries and began to eat slowly. “This has been rather, um, fun.” Fluttershy said softly as she began to nibble, much like her pet rabbit, Angel against the fries. “You two were amazing on that song earlier, it was if you two wrote it.” Fluttershy complimented the couple. “That’s mighty kind of ya to say Flutters, but I haven’t seen you up there on that stage yet.” Applejack winked. “Oh, that’s because it’s Sunset and Adagio’s turn soon.” Fluttershy said with a large smile but had obvious anxious undertones to it. “I’m aware sugarcube, but what I mean is, I haven’t even seen your name on the list, hell, even Twilights going up there with Glimmer and Shimmer.” Applejack continued. “Heh, Glimmer and Shimmer.” Rainbow commented. “Oh um… I don’t know if I’d like to.” Fluttershy admitted. “I just get so nervous, and worried, I know you’re all my friends, my best friends, I just don’t know if I can do it with all these strangers in the bar.” Fluttershy said softly as she confided in her close friends. “Fluttershy, darling, if you don’t want to, that’s perfectly fine, but I do think it could be fun, I know how much you love to sing.” Rarity said as she placed a hand on her shoulder. “I’ll go up there with you, and we don’t have to do anything too loud, or fast, we can do something… I dunno, gentle?” Rainbow suggested to her girlfriend. “I-I mean… I don’t think I’d mind, it’s just that… I’d like to do something a little different, then the usual melodies I’d sing, but I don’t know if any of you would like it.” Fluttershy grew sheepish and hid behind her hands slightly, but even still, there was a smile. “Well, how about you see how the others do first? Then decide sugarcube?” Applejack suggested. To which Fluttershy smiled wider and nodded her head in agreement. As Sunset and Adagio drunkenly dithered on what to sing, Twilight helped the group the girls into a much better seating arrangement, moving the sofas together and conjoining the tables, so that they could all sit together and indulge as one, and feast on the delights of fried, breaded, and starchy foods, alongside their copious drinks. -o0o- After much drunken debate between Adagio and Sunset, the two eventually began to sing, well, more yell the lyrics in complete unison: “I WANNA BE SLAVE, I WANNA BE YOUR MASTER!” Their smiles oozed genuine fun, passion, and a little bit of something else. The lyrics did not help that underline tension between the two, as they continued to sing/shout out the words. The tension was in no way ill-founded, but perhaps something flirtatious, maybe even sexual. Applejack grinned at Rarity as the duo sang their hearts out. She raised both brows and mouthed the words: “I might win.” Her lips curled into a smirk, and Rarity pouted and stuck out her tongue playfully. Alas, the two continued to sing passionately, but not once did they kiss, or do anything romantic, to allow Applejack to win the bet. Rarity’s chances of having her bet of Fluttershy and Rainbow come out publicly before Adagio and Sunset started dating was entirely possible still. The game was still on. Throughout the night, more duos, even solos, varying trios and groups sang throughout the night. Rainbow and Applejack sang varying Rap and Country records, whereas trios like Twilight, Starlight and Sunset did covers from varying musicals. The Dazzling’s formed their trio and even sang more high-power/glam-rock songs. Rarity even decided to perform a solo of ‘All that Jazz.’ Pinkie of course went for anything upbeat and party like, anything to get the girls moving, which she did succeed in, multiple times throughout the night. The energy and vibe of the whole evening was utterly divine, riddled with love and adoration for friends and loved ones alike. The only person left was Fluttershy, after watching various groupings of her friends, and even her own girlfriend, sing multiple differing genres of music, she finished her cocktail, wiped her lips clean and headed towards Rainbow. “Let’s do it.” Fluttershy said confidently, yet still quietly. “That’s my girl.” Rainbow said, nearly aloud, she didn’t want to ruin things by making Fluttershy uncomfortable, by drunkenly revealing that they were together. Fluttershy simply giggled lightly in response and took Rainbow’s hand and whispered in Pinkies ear, what song she wanted to sing. She knew Rainbow knew this song but wanted to surprise her when it started. “With one more duo before our group song, give it up for Fluttershy and Rainbow Dashhhh!” Pinkie shouted as the bashful and brawn headed up to the stage. “What are we singing Flutters?” Rainbow asked with a wide smile on her face. “Oh, you’ll see Dashy.” Fluttershy said softly as she clutched onto the microphone. As Pinkie loaded up the track, an eerie silence, flooded the room, there was no gentle bar music, just the girls chatting and the patrons of the bar. That was until a heavy guitar riff started to shred its way onto the speakers, as the beginning notes of ‘The Summoning’ by Sleep Token began to blast out. To say Rainbow was shocked would be an understatement as her jaw hung open. This was a heavy song, with not only high vocals, but metal screams and harmonics. Something incredibly unexpected for Fluttershy. The crowd of both their friends and patrons started to watch eagerly, Rarity’s jaw had also dropped wide open. “Excuse my French, darling, but what the fuck.” Rarity said astounded by what she was seeing and hearing. This tiny, petit, pastel pink hair coloured young woman, was about to scream down a microphone. This only made Rarity smile, Fluttershy doing something as bold as this, would certainly send Rainbow over the edge, they’d surely kiss right? The game was in her ball court now, and Applejack knew it. Not that she currently cared, as a current feeling of true anticipation filled her body, as she watched the shyest girl she knew, was about to ascend into a metal queen. “I’ve got a river running right into you, I’ve got a blood trail, red in the blue, something you say, or something you do, a taste of the divine.” Fluttershy sang with a growl in her throat. Her voice, transformed almost entirely, it was still hervoice, but gritted, growl like and no-where near as quiet. Rainbow’s mouth curled into such a wide, surprised smile as she listened to her girlfriend’s growl. To her, there was nothing more attractive. As the song went on, both women hurled out some rather impressive vocals, it was apparent, that the shyest woman of the group, had some rather loud vocals whenever she wished to unleash them, in every sense, whenever the song required her to scream the lyrics, Fluttershy did so, with immaculate precision. As the song neared its end, Rarity sat up and clutched Applejack’s hand and said to her. “I hope you’re ready to pack your bag and head to a luxurious vineyard resort, my love.” Rarity grinned, so sure in herself and her end of the bet. As both Rainbow and Fluttershy received their screams of approval from both audiences, Rainbow pulled Fluttershy in for a tight hug, the two laughed on stage, as both shared compliments to one another. If Fluttershy was drunk, she was masking it well compared to her partner Rainbow. Alas, much like Applejack’s side of the bet, they also did not share any romantics in front of everyone. Rarity rolled her eyes in defeat, but the bet didn’t have to end here, it could be any time between now and Fluttershy’s BBQ. -o0o- “Alrighty girls, I just wanna say thank ya’ll for tonight, for treatin’ myself and Rare’s here like true angels, ya’ll are the finest bunch, better than the freshest bunch of Zap Appels. So, here’s a toast to ya’ll bein’ the best friends, a girl could ask for.” Applejack raised her glass. Rarity too stepped forth. “It truly has been such a warming and wonderful night, thank you all so much, for being the best friends and loved ones, so, a toast to all of us, and one more song, before the DJ chucks us out before 2am!” Rarity said as all of the girls toasted to being best friends, all exchanging thanks and welcomes to one another, as the intro to ‘Mr Brightside’ began to echo out. The night ended with the entire friend group, singing their drunken hearts out to Mr Brightside. Pinkie ran along the bar and encouraged the other patrons and fellow friends to sing along, to which, they happily did, how could they refuse, especially with a song everyone knew. However, all good things must come to an end, as the clock struck 2am, as the song ended, it was time to go. All of them gently strode out of the bar into the cool crisp cold night air of Canterlot. The streets were fairly busy, but it was chuck out time for most bars and clubs, and many taxis and Ubers adorned the city streets awaiting to collect their bookings. Many of the girls had been smart enough to book a taxi inside, or prior to kickout time. Twilight and Starlight had already said their goodbyes, as had Rainbow and Fluttershy. Pinkie luckily had Maud to collect her, and Sonata and Aria were bound to spend the night in Aria’s apartment downtown. “Darling, the last train out to your neck -hic- of the woods, is long gone, and a Taxi to my place will cost a fortune!” Rarity grovelled as she clung onto Applejack’s shoulder and arm. “Oh shit, you’re right. And I ain’t got any cash on me for a taxi neither. I used it all, and I don’t really fancy spendin’ too much more.” Applejack said honestly. “Oi! Newly Weds!” Sunset called out to Rarity and Applejack. “Come stay around Dagi’s place with me, she’s got a spare room for you two, but if you’re coming, you better hurry up, our taxis just got here!” “Shall we sugarcube? I ain’t got any spare clothes on me.” Applejack said softly to which Rarity replied with a drunken smile and a sloppy kiss to her forehead. “Well, aren’t you lucky that you are in love with a fashionista darling, come on, lets go.” Rarity took Applejacks hand, and hurriedly ran along towards Sunset and Adagio’s taxi, all the while Applejack laughed as she clung onto to both Rarity’s purse and high heels.