//------------------------------//
// Chapter 06 
// Story: Just A Couple of Ponies 
// by Tchernobog 
//------------------------------//

As much as Mayor Mare insisted otherwise, Sugarcube Corner was the true center of town. With the delicious baked goods served from early morning to evening, while also being the residence of Ponyville’s premier Party Organizer and Entertainer, the bakery saw more ponies passing through its doors than the Town Hall did on its best of days.

Perhaps that was why they’d chosen it for their weekly breakfast gathering, Rarity mused. The treats did nothing to help her figure, but some sacrifices needed to be made in the name of friendship. And said treats were delectable.

When she walked through the bakery’s doors and saw all her friends at a table, a smirk appeared on her muzzle, growing until she couldn’t have dispelled it, even if she’d tried. Not after noticing how Rainbow Dash was firmly sandwiched in between Applejack and Twilight. 

“My my, aren't you three sitting a little too close together?” she asked, looking at each in turn. “Why, ponies may see and get the wrong impression.”

Rainbow grinned cockily as the two ponies besides her blushed. She spread her wings and drew them close, planting a kiss on each cheek before turning back to Rarity. “What wrong impression?” 

Rarity chuckled. “None, clear–” she started, before she was interrupted by a loud crash. Pinkie had launched herself across the table, tackling the trio onto the floor. She’d managed to startle Fluttershy as well, as the pegasus was now hanging from a rafter.

“Pinkie!” Rainbow cried out. “What the hay?”

“Oh my gosh you guys did it! You’re so cute and it’s perfect and I couldn’t help it you guys are adorable!” She lifted her three friends, squeezing them tightly in a massive hug. Had they not been fighting for air, or wondering how many bones were cracking, they’d have marvelled at how Pinkie could lift three grown mares with such ease. 

“Pinkie! No tackling guests, remember?” a voice called out from behind the counter.

“Sorry, Mr. Cake!” With a gasp, the pink mare unceremoniously dropped her friends. “I gotta start a party! And find the biggest streamer ever! I mean, do you guys know how long your names are?” she asked, pointing at the alicorn and the pegasus. “ ‘Congratulations to Applejack, Twilight Sparkle and Rainbow Dash on being a couple!’ That’s huge!” Pinkie said, and paused. “Wait, is it even a couple anymore?”

“W-well a couple is two, by definition,” Twilight said, picking herself off the floor. “I’m… not sure what this would be, actually.”

Applejack stood up, straightening her hat. “A trio?” 

“In relations?” Fluttershy offered from the ceiling. 

Rainbow shrugged. “Eh. That sounds boring.”

Twilight tapped a hoof under her chin before tentatively suggesting, “A triad?”

“That’s worse!”

“Ooh, I know!” Pinkie cried, leaning on Rainbow’s back. “A threesome!” She pouted as she was assaulted by a “No!” from five different directions. “Fine. Party poopers,” she muttered.

Rarity winced, pressing on. “At least try ménage à trois, dear!”

Applejack gave Rarity a flat look. “Ain't that the same thing?” 

“More romantic, Applejack! But never mind that, tell us everything!”

“Ain’t much to tell, really.” Applejack shrugged, pointing a hoof at Rainbow. “This featherbrain forgot ‘bout the dinner, worried Twilight ‘n me half t’death, and then crashed into us on the way home!”

Rainbow blushed, glaring at Applejack. “H-hey! I was confused! You guys dropped that on my lap and I didn’t know what to do!”

“And that’s changed now?” Rarity asked.

Rainbow nodded, glancing at Fluttershy. “Yeah. ‘Shy here got me thinking straight, and then I ran into Princess Luna.”

“Th-the princess?” Fluttershy gasped.

“Yeah, she was, uh, stargazing. Sorta.” Rainbow cleared her throat. “But we kinda talked, and she set me even straighter.”

“But Dashie, Twilight and Applejack are mares!” Pinkie said, frowning.

“Uh, yeah? I kinda noticed.”

“Then how did Flutters and Luna set you straight?”

Five hooves met five faces.

“Moving on,” Rarity muttered. “Did anything else happen?”

“Yeah, we stayed the night at the library.” Rainbow grinned, shrugging Pinkie off her back to wrap her hooves around her marefriends once more.

Rarity mock-gasped. “Oh, how bold!”

“We were jus’ talkin’, Rarity.” Applejack glared at the unicorn. “I didn’t figure you t’be one with your mind in the gutter.”

“It’s a natural thing to assume about ponies in a relationship!” Rarity huffed, her cheeks slightly tinged red. “Anyways. Do you girls have plans?” She leaned forwards, eyeing her three friends.

“Well duh!” Pinkie giggled. “They’re gonna come to the party and have fun and play pin the tail on the donkey and–”

“Pinkie, I think she means us,” Twilight interrupted, levitating Pinkie back to her seat. “You can come down, Fluttershy.” She waited until her friend had landed before turning back to Rarity. “We haven’t planned anything at all, really,” she said, raising an eyebrow at Rarity’s dumbstruck expression. “What?”

“I’m sorry, dear, I’m just recovering. I thought I heard you say you don’t have a plan?”

Twilight rolled her eyes as her friends giggled. “Oh, ha ha. Laugh it up,” she grumbled, unable to fight a grin from forming. “But seriously, we weren’t planning on doing anything special, right?” She turned to her lovers, who both shrugged in return.

“Oh no no no!” Rarity exclaimed, slamming her hoof on the table, sending Fluttershy back to the ceiling. “That will not do!”

Applejack stared at Rarity as if she’d grown a second horn. “What’re you talkin’ about, Rares?”

“You’re celebrating a new addition to your relationship! You should be doing something special!” Rarity cried out, her expression brightening. “You should go on a date!”

“Er, didn’t we already do that?” Rainbow asked.

“Well yes, but this is your first official date for the three of you! That should be celebrated!”

Twilight looked uncertain. “We don’t really need–”

“And we’ll help!” Rarity added. 

“… What?”

Rarity tapped a hoof to her chin. “I can call in some favors. A table for three somewhere appropriate should be no problem.”

“But–" Applejack started.

“And dancing!” Pinkie grinned, ignoring the farmer. “Dancing is always fun!”

Rainbow frowned. “Wait a sec–”

“Ooh, excellent idea, Pinkie. And of course, you must look the part! Why, I can make you–"

Pinkie held up a hoof, shoving it in Rarity’s mouth. “Wait! I’ve got an idea!” She waited until Rarity raised an eyebrow before removing her hoof. “We’ve got two groups of three here, right?”

Rarity blinked. “Are you suggesting a double date?”

“What? No! I don’t like you girls like that!” Pinkie giggled, shaking her head. “No, since we’re two groups of three, we obviously gotta split into three groups of two to help them out!”

Rarity frowned, feeling vaguely insulted, but shoved those thoughts aside. “That’s perfect, actually. Twilight, I’ll take care of you.”

Pinkie beamed, and bounced over to her fellow earth pony. “And I’ll take Applejack!”

“Don’t I get a choice in the matter?” the farmer asked wearily, knowing full well what the answer would be.

“Noperoonie!”

“I guess I’ll help Rainbow,” Fluttershy said from the ceiling, flinching as Rainbow looked up at her. “I-If you don’t mind.”

Rainbow smiled at her oldest friend. “Sure thing, ‘Shy.”

Rarity clapped her front hooves. “Excellent! Now come along, Pinkie, Fluttershy. We have much to plan!”

As Fluttershy’s tail disappeared out the door, three ponies were left staring at each other. 

Twilight blinked. “What just happened?” 

Applejack laid a foreleg over her marefriends’ shoulders. “Girls, I think our date jus’ got taken over.”







Dear Aunt Luna,

I apologize for the delay in responding. Why did you not use magical means for delivery?

In any case, I am not sure we are talking about the same Twilight Sparkle here. The letter Aunt Celestia sent me seemed very clear. Applejack and Twilight love Rainbow Dash. They want to include her in their relationship, not start a harem. Though I believe you are right – Twilight’s friends would be a fantastic group for her. Maybe some day?

I am glad to hear you are considering forming your own, though I must advise caution – the laws surrounding them haven’t been changed in your absence, but they have distinctly fallen out of favor. These days, multi-pony relationships are on a more equal footing than what a ‘harem’ implies, more akin to what Twilight herself desires. Perhaps you can ask her for details if she decides to go ahead and approach Rainbow Dash?

I will of course help you any way I can. As to your suggestion, Shining and I have had had a few adventurous incidents, true, but I have never considered anything more… old-school. Nonetheless, you are correct about our privileges. I shall have to consider it further.

Yours Truly,

Cadance

PS: Do be cautious with Big McIntosh. I think Applejack might not be entirely amenable to the idea.







“D’ya haveta do that so loudly, Dash?”

A slurping sound had distracted Applejack from her book, making her glance at the pegasus. Below her, lying on the floor, Twilight was reading a book of her own, held aloft by her magic. But her cup of tea sat undisturbed. Instead, the culprit was Rainbow Dash, who lay atop Twilight, a hay shake just beyond her hooves. 

“I’m enjoying it, so yeah,” the pegasus shot back, not taking her eyes off her book.

Applejack snorted. “You can enjoy it quiet-like, ya know.”

“Not in Neighpon! Twi says if you slurp loudly, it shows you like it.” 

“We ain’t in Neighpon, Dash,” Applejack pointed out, only to get a smirk and a tongue stuck out at her.

Applejack rolled her eyes, but could not help grinning at the picture. She’d stopped by the library once she’d wrapped up her day at the market, and had found her marefriend – no, marefriends – chatting in the kitchen. Not long after, they’d retreated to the main library to read. 

She herself had chosen to read up on Ponyville’s horticulture. She knew the apple farm’s history quite well, but Twilight had suggested reading up on some of the town’s other cultivations. She didn’t know how it would help, but it was interesting, and it meant more time with the alicorn, which was always a plus.

Rainbow, of course, had immediately grabbed a Daring Do book. Despite Twilight’s insistence on getting her to try other series, the pegasus always came back to the adventurer’s travels. Twilight had let out an indignant squawk as Rainbow flopped atop her, but hadn’t pushed her off. Instead, she’d kept reading her own book – something about magical cures. 

That had left Applejack sitting on the couch. She was perfectly satisfied with the arrangement, as she could gaze at her two marefriends without moving a muscle. She smiled at the sight, the smile slowly turning sly as an idea struck her.



Quietly stepping off the couch, she inched closer to the two others, and raised herself onto her hind legs. After that, it was a simple matter of letting gravity do the rest.

“Hurk!” Rainbow’s eyes bugged out as Applejack’s weight landed on her. “Hey! What’s the big idea?”

Applejack ignored the pegasus’s glare, smiling as innocently as she could. “I’m just gettin’ comfy. You both looked snuggly.”

“But you’re heavy,” Rainbow protested. “I can’t read like this!”

“Oh, I’m sorry for interrupting ya.” Applejack mocked, squinting at Rainbow. “Did ya just call me fat?” she asked, staring at her marefriend.

“Uh…”

“It’s muscle, not fat, and you’re both heavy.”

The pair turned their heads, and met Twilight’s unamused glare. “You two aren’t nearly as cuddly as you think you are.”

Rainbow scoffed. “Please, I’m a cuddle master!” she said, earning a set of raised eyebrows from both her marefriends. “What?”

“I thought you weren’t a sappy pony, Sugarcube.” Applejack smirked.

“Not all the time!” Rainbow blushed. “B-but I don’t mind it at home…”

“Well then, Cuddlebug, ya’ve come to the right place!” 

“Huh?” Rainbow jolted as she felt Applejack’s muzzle under her wing, pressing into her feathers. “H-hey!”

“I can never get her to stop when she does that,” Twilight said, giggling at Rainbow’s bewildered expression.

Rainbow opened her mouth to complain, until Applejack ruffled her feathers sideways and her eyes dilated. “Ohh… If she keeps doing that, I don’t want her to stop.”

Much to Rainbow’s dismay, the farmpony did stop, lifting her head to stare at her marefriends with a somber expression. “Hey gals, I’ve been thinkin’.”

“Less thinky, more nuzzly!” Rainbow whined, a hind leg kicking air.

Applejack rolled her eyes. “Either of ya got any idea what Rarity is up to?”

“Nope.” Rainbow sighed, mourning the loss of the nuzzling, as Twilight shook her head. The pegasus smirked. “Why, you worried?”

“Kinda.” She frowned as Rainbow raised an eyebrow. “Have ya seen the way she grins the last couple days? Every time I see her I feel…"

“A sense of doom?” Twilight interrupted, staring at Applejack. “Pinkie’s no better. She just keeps giggling.”

“Thank Celestia, I thought it was just me!” Rainbow sagged back onto Twilight. “They’re starting to creep me out.”

“What about Fluttershy?” Twilight asked. 

Applejack shook her head. “No go. She turns tail and flies off as soon as she sees me.”

Rainbow’s growing frown suddenly changed to a devious grin. “I got it! Let’s send Spike!”

“Rainbow!” Applejack chided.

“I already thought of that,” Twilight answered, missing Applejack’s shocked expression. “It’s too late. Rarity's got him busy running errands.” She giggled lightly. “That, and he’s not exactly subtle enough for espionnage.”

“How about I follow him? I’m pretty sneaky with a cloud!”

Twilight shook her head. “I think we should just wait and see. They’re our friends, how bad could it be?”

“Dangit, Twi!” Applejack scowled. “Didn’t ya learn your lesson ‘bout sayin’ that?”

“Because that turned out so badly last time?” Twilight gestured at Rainbow. “Now, could you please get off me?”







Dearest Cadance,

I thank you for your suggestion of caution, though it unfortunately arrived a bit late. Perhaps your idea of using magical communication has merit, despite the stellar work the mail pegasi do.

I fear I must explain myself. Some time after I sent you the letter, I was accosted by none other than Rainbow Dash herself, while I was on the lookout for other potential candidates for my retinue. I did not realize standards of privacy had changed so, a fact I learned after asking Celestia for other viewing suggestions. I’ve since been kept busy reading upon an entirely too large number of books on privacy law.

During my conversation with Rainbow Dash, however, I learned that she had been approached by Twilight Sparkle and Applejack. You are right; their intentions are purely romantic, and almost distressing to Rainbow Dash, but I believe I was able to give her guidance. I have not heard back since, unfortunately, so I am not sure how things ‘turned out’, as it were.

I also learned that Big McIntosh may have caught the eye of a certain schoolteacher in Ponyville, a Miss Cheerilee. I thus approached her, explaining my intentions and desires towards Big McIntosh, and hoped that she could clarify her own plans.

To my great pleasure, she required little convincing. She explained she had no true claim on his heart, past an inopportune series of events with a love poison, but did hesitantly admit they had approached each other on separate occasions after this. Even before hearing the benefits of being in a royal harem, she seemed open to the idea, and willing to talk to Big McIntosh for my sake, and perhaps introduce us.

Do tell me what Shining Armor says. It may be of use for when I speak to Big McIntosh.

Yours Truly,

Luna

PS: This may seem like an odd question, but, who is your favorite Wonderbolt?







“Rarity?”

“Hmm?”

“Are you even listening?” Twilight sighed. Once again, Rarity had gotten distracted by her work, and was now lost to the outside world. She couldn’t really blame her, though, as the seamstress was working on her dress. For that matter, she done the same thing herself on numerous occasions. 

Huh. Is that a common unicorn trait? I’ll have to look this up. Maybe if I–

She winced as a needle poked her in the flank, jolting her out of her thoughts. She fought the blush appearing on her cheeks as she realized she’d been about to get distracted herself. 

She couldn’t afford to, however. There was something she had to do, and for that, she had to get Rarity’s attention.

“Rarity, your tail is on fire.”

“Mmhm.” 

“And I’m eloping with Princess Celestia tomorrow.”

“That’s nice, darling.”

Were she not constrained by her dress fittings, Twilight’s hoof would have met her forehead. This was probably a good thing, as she didn’t want a headache during the date. In any case, it was now time to bring out the big guns. 

“Spike told me that the Crusaders borrowed all the silk again.”

“What!” Rarity shrieked, jerking back from Twilight to stare at her materials. “Those fillies! When I get my hooves on them I’ll–" 

Twilight smirked as Rarity’s tirade stopped mid-sentence, then swiveled back at her, mixing a glare with a raised eyebrow in a fashion only Rarity could do. “So you were listening.”

“Yes, well, I was in ‘the zone’, as it were,” Rarity huffed, turning her nose up at Twilight. “I would appreciate if you kept heart attacks at a minimum, dear.”

Twilight giggled. “I’ll try. No promises though.”

“You’re terrible.” Rarity sighed, grinning despite herself. “Those two are an awful influence on you.” 

“I’m the terrible one? What were you going to do to the fillies, then?”

“I, ah. Nothing you need concern yourself with, dear.”

Twilight’s grin kept growing as she pressed on. “No, no, go on. I think I might have to notify the guards about this.”

“You wouldn’t dare!” Rarity lifted a hoof to her chest in mock-surprise.

“You’re right, I wouldn’t.” Twilight nodded. “Not without a thorough investigation first, at least. And a warrant.”

Rarity chuckled, briefly wondering just how serious her friend was before dismissing the thought. “So, what were you saying?”

“Well, while I’ve been trapped here, I’ve been wondering,” Twilight started, missing Rarity’s pointed ‘hmph!’. “I won’t find one of you over my shoulder during the date, right?”

“Wh– I– ” Rarity sputtered. “Why, I never! What do you take me – us – for?”

“I’m sorry!” Twilight said, her ears flat against her skull. “It’s just… Well, I probably would in your place!”

Rarity blinked. “You would?”

Twilight blushed. “I’d be too curious. I don’t think I could resist.”

“Well! It’s a good thing I’m not the one going on a date!” Rarity giggled, and smiled as she stepped close to a crestfallen Twilight. “However, I’m happy to know you’d be that worried about me,” she said, nuzzling her friend on the cheek.

“Well yeah,” Twilight smiled back. “That’s what friends do!”

Rarity nodded. “Quite. And to answer your question, darling, I would never be so rude as to get in your way like that.” She lifted a hoof as Twilight opened her mouth. “And I’ll make sure to keep Pinkie far away as well.”

“Really?”

“I Pinkie promise, you won’t find us anywhere near your date,” Rarity said, making the appropriate motions. This seemed to relieve the alicorn, who let out a sigh.

“Thank you. I’m nervous enough already.”

“Tut-tut! You are a princess, dear. You are in charge. Be the leader we know you are!”

“Um…”

Rarity gripped Twilight’s muzzle between her hooves, staring at her in the eyes. “They are a rambunctious pair, Twilight. You must tame them!”

“But–"

“Rein them in! Put your hoof down! Leash them if you have to!”

Twilight’s cheeks exploded in color. “L-leash them?” 

“Hm. You’re right, that may be too much, too soon.”

“Are we, ah, still talking about the date?”

“Regardless!” Rarity exclaimed, ignoring Twilight’s question. “Do you like your dress?”

“I – Huh?”

“Your dress, darling.”

Twilight glanced at a mirror, seeing the finished product for the first time. Her eyes widened as she took in the sight – Rarity had truly outdone herself.

It was clear Rarity had based the dress off her coronation regalia. The colors and designs bore a distinct resemblance, but Rarity had managed to make it simpler, yet at the same time, more alluring.

The dress itself flowed past her tail, held around her waist with a sash, upon which her wings rested. Rarity had added a scarf, sitting comfortably on her shoulders as each end wrapped around her front hooves. Twilight had imagined that she’d just trip on it, but so far, the scarf seemed to be only tolerably constricting, and was staying out of her way. Perhaps there was an enchantment on it?

Rarity had also added a blue string to rest upon Twilight’s chest, tying the front of the dress to hold it together. Finally, she’d asked Twilight to bring her regalia’s sollerets with her. As hesitant as Twilight was to wear any part of the Royal Ensemble for too long, she had to admit that it went beautifully with Rarity’s work.

She looked like a princess, ready to take on the town by storm.

“It’s lovely!” Twilight grinned. “Thank you so much.”

The seamstress waved a hoof in dismissal. “No need to thank me, dear. It’s my pleasure.” She smirked, winking at Twilight. “Did you not notice the extra feature?”

“Extra feature?” Twilight repeated.

“I took the liberty to write down a few flashcards for you. They’re hidden in the sash.” She nodded her head at the item in question, her horn lighting up to pull out one of the hidden cards. “Go on, read it!”

Twilight raised an eyebrow, and took the card in her magic. “ ‘Order for your mares. They’ll appreciate your leadership’ .” Twilight blinked. “Really?”

Rarity nodded. “Of course, darling. Show them your strength! You know how much they love that.”

“I guess…” 

“On your left side are more tips. On the right, advice on how to handle various stains,” Rarity instructed, shuddering at the last part. “You can’t be too careful.”

“No kidding!” Twilight grinned, looking more closely at the sash. “These will come in handy. I can just whip them out at any time!”

Rarity gasped. “Certainly not! You must be inconspicuous!” 

“Huh?”

“Why, find an excuse to go to the filly’s room, of course!”

“Can’t I just read them whenever?” Twilight asked, tilting her head in confusion.

“Absolutely not, darling! Why, that would be as if you showed up at the table with a guidebook!” Rarity blinked, remembering exactly who she was talking to. “You shouldn’t do that, by the way.”

Twilight’s hopeful grin faded. “Oh.” 

Rarity noticed the change in her friend’s demeanor, and quickly leaned in to hug the alicorn. “Don’t worry. You’ll do fine. Just follow my advice.”

Twilight smiled at Rarity, leaning into the hug. As she pulled back, she took a deep breath and straightened herself. “Right. Okay.”

“Then let me hear it!”

“Be strong.”

“Yes!”

“Lead your mares.”

“Yes, yes!”

“Be commanding!”

Rarity clapped her hooves. “Perfect. You’ll be using the red cards in no time!”

“Red cards?” Twilight repeated. The one she’d seen was white.

“For after your date, naturally.”

“Huh?”

“Top part of your sash.” Rarity grinned and winked. “See for yourself.”

Twilight’s magic explored the sash. As Rarity had said, she found more cards hidden in the folds, and pulled one out. It was a bright, almost sensual red. Her eyes ran over the text.

Fwump.

“Careful with your wings!” Rarity cried. “You’ll damage your dress!”





“You sure about this, Fluttershy?” Rainbow’s voice wafted through the bathroom door. “I can’t remember ever wearing this thing!”

Fluttershy nodded, then blinked as she realized Rainbow couldn’t see it. “When you first arrived in Ponyville. You wore it to that club we went to.”

“Seriously?” Rainbow asked, disbelief evident in her tone. “This looks a little fragile for clubbing.”

“You danced in it, too.”

“Huh.” Rainbow was silent, and Fluttershy could only hear the sound of her shuffling about. “You think they’ll like it?”

“Hmm? Who?”

“The Queen of Prance.”

“Huh? Why would she–"

“I’m kidding! I mean Twi and A.J..”

“Oh!” Fluttershy blushed, tearing her attention away from her animals. After Rainbow had locked herself in her cottage’s bathroom to change, it was all she could to do keep herself busy. Maybe a little too busy, though. “Um. Yes, definitely. Absolutely.” 

The silence stretched on, until Fluttershy heard the door lock turn. Rainbow peeked her head out, staring inquisitively at Fluttershy. “What makes you so sure?”

“… The club, back then,” Fluttershy answered after a moment’s hesitation. When Rainbow raised a questioning eyebrow, she knew she had to explain. “You didn’t see how many ponies were looking at you, did you?”

“Uhh.” Rainbow shook her head. “I’m a little fuzzy on that. Why? How many?” she asked, grinning.

“The entire club, Rainbow.”

“Ha!” Rainbow cackled. She disappeared back into the bathroom, rummaging about if the noise was any indication. “So where am I going anyway?” she asked.

“À Bride Abattue.”

The noise stopped momentarily. “Who in the what now?”

Fluttershy giggled. “That fancy Prench restaurant?”

“Oh. Any good?” Rainbow asked, leaning her head back to preen her wings. 

“Yes, Rarity and I went to get lunch there a few times. She got you girls a reservation.” Fluttershy smiled at the thought. “They have wonderful classical décor, and the music is very relaxing…”

“Right, but how’s the food?”

“Oh!” Fluttershy blinked. “Yes, it’s delicious.” Her ears perked up as she noticed a distinct lack of noise coming from her bathroom. “Are you done?”

“Yeah, but…” Rainbow paused. “How am I going to fly in this? I can’t show my moves with this thing!”

“F-fly?” Fluttershy stammered, her jaw falling open in disbelief. “Y-you're planning on stunt flying? At a fancy Prench restaurant? During your date?” she said, her voice almost rising with her last question.

Rainbow didn’t seem to notice the difference. “Um, duh? Remember who you’re talking to?”

“You can’t!” Fluttershy shook her head. 

“And why not?”

“B-because this is your first date with them!”

Rainbow snorted. “Uh, no it isn’t.”

Fluttershy stomped a hoof. “Your first real date with them, Rainbow! You need to show how serious you are.”

“By not flying?” Rainbow asked, her tone utterly disbelieving.

“Right! I mean, um, yes. Not flying. No more than hovering. You don't want to mess up your dress or mane or anything, and you don't want to get in trouble with the restaurant staff.”

“Hey! I don’t get into trouble… that often!”

“Maybe not on purpose, but… Dash, you want Twilight and Applejack to know how much you respect them, and how seriously you're taking this.” Fluttershy paused, taking a moment to breathe and think of what she wanted to say. “If you're just flying around, then it’s no different than usual! It’s not something special.”

Fluttershy waited for an answer, but none came forth. Maybe she needs something more, she thought.

“I know how important they are to you, and Twilight and Applejack need to know that too. Show them that dinner with them is more important to you than being flying every possible moment. If you slow down for them, let them see that this is special, they’ll know that you’re taking it seriously.”

After another moment of silence, Rainbow poked her head out once again. “You really think so, ‘Shy?”

“Yes.”

Rainbow looked down. “I-I guess. I hadn’t thought of it like that.” With a sigh, she pushed the door open with a hoof, and trotted out into the living room. “So, how’s this?” she asked, lifting a hoof to pose.

At first glance, the dress seemed to match Rainbow’s eyes. But it was a shade darker, a deep burgundy that meshed beautifully with her blue coat. It flowed past her flanks, covering her tail under its folds, with only a slit that showed a hint of her thighs. 

A low v neck opening showed off a small part of Rainbow’s chest, and the shoulder straps combined the foreleg hole with opening for her wings, cleverly giving the pegasus ample room to move all her limbs.

She looked amazing, and the wolf whistling seemed to support that.

“Mr. Wolf!” Fluttershy chided, narrowing her eyes at the animal. “Behave.”

Rainbow chuckled, a slight blush tinging her cheeks. “I’ll take that as ‘awesome’. Why’d you have this thing anyway?” she asked, leaning her head back to preen her wings.

She missed the blush that appeared on Fluttershy’s face. “You, well, left it here with me. After the club.”

“What, you borrowed it?” Rainbow asked, still focused on her wings.

“No, you, um, took it off here…” Fluttershy said, every word quieter than the last.

“Huh?” 

“… andyouforgottotakeitwithyou,” Fluttershy finished in a rush. “The next morning. Um.”

Rainbow finally met her friend’s eyes, her cheeks a bright red. “Oh. R-right.” 

The silence stretched on as the pair looked at each other. Fluttershy’s mind drifted through her memories, of time spent together with her oldest friend. The dress was a reminder of the past, and she smiled, remembering all the happy moments.

Her reverie broke as Rainbow cleared her throat, still blushing. “H-how do I look?”

Fluttershy smiled, leaning forward to nuzzle her friend on the cheek. “Wonderful, Rainbow.”

Rainbow blinked as Fluttershy nuzzled her, unsure whether to return the gesture. Instead, she just latched on the first thought she had. “So… Good to go?”

Fluttershy pulled back, the nostalgia fading. Those memories were just that – memories – and they wouldn’t come back. She gave Dash a final critical look, her eyes drifted up to her friend’s head. She smiled gently as an idea hit. “Your mane.”

“My mane?”

Fluttershy nodded. “I’ve got an idea,” she said, nudging Rainbow back into the bathroom. “Trust me. Applejack and Twilight will love it.”





“Nope!”

“Oh come on, Applejack!” Pinkie whined. “The others are doing it!”

Applejack rolled her eyes as she brushed her mane. “I ain’t the others, Pinkie. I can take care of m’self!”

Pinkie sat on Applejack’s bed, pouting. “Please? I’ll help you buck for a week!”

Applejack’s eyes widened at Pinkie’s words. She remembered, not so long ago, how Pinkie had single hoofedly managed to almost ruin the farm. Sure, Pinkie had helped before and things had turned out just fine. Plus, there’d been powerful magic at work, and the entire town had nearly been turned upside down by its effects. She herself had almost ruined Rarity’s business, so she couldn’t truly blame her fellow earth pony.

Still. The memory was just a bit too fresh.

“Y’aint gotta trouble yourself, Sugarcube,” she said, as she reached for a hairtie. Her hoof never reached its destination, as her head thumped onto the vanity. 

“C’mooooon!” Pinkie pleaded, standing on Applejack’s head. “Lemme heeeeeeelp!” 

“Mmmph!”

“I can take care of the barn! Paint the chickens!” Pinkie blinked. “No, wait, other way.”

“Mmph! Mmmph!”

“What’s that? Apple Bloom fell down the well?” Pinkie gasped, jumping off Applejack’s head. “We gotta save her!”

“Pinkie!” Applejack wheezed, halting the other mare in her tracks. “Sh-she’s fine,” Applejack said, coughing. 

“Really? Then why did you–"

“I didn’t!” Applejack interrupted. She sighed, staring at Pinkie. “Alright. Y’can help. But,” she said, holding up a hoof as Pinkie bounced excitedly, “no frou-frou stuff!”

Pinkie grinned, reaching out of Applejack’s room to pull in a changing screen. “Don’t worry, I’ve got just the thing!”

Applejack briefly considered the fact she may have made a mistake, but the thought had barely formed when she found herself back in front of her vanity.

“There you go!” Pinkie said, giggling. “Whaddya think?”

Pinkie had suited her up. Literally. Applejack was wearing a white dress shirt, the sleeves reaching all the way to her fetlocks. A red string bowtie blended in with the shirt, all wrapped up by a black tailcoat, flowing on her back all the way to her tail. There was even a pair of black shoes for her rear hooves.

The only piece of clothing she recognized was her hat, which worked pretty well with the suit, if she could say so herself.

Wait, what?

“Pinkie, what in Equestria–"

“You look great!” Pinkie grinned. “And all the fillies are crazy for a sharp dressed mare! Haven't you ever listened to ZZ Trot?”

“… Who?” Applejack asked, then shook her head. That didn’t matter. As she opened her mouth to question Pinkie, a dry chuckle from the corridor froze Applejack in her tracks.

“Well, Lil’ Apple, Ah hope that suit ain’t too expensive.” 

“It ain’t mine!” Applejack blurted, cheeks burning as she turned to look at her grandmother. “Why? Does it look bad?”

The old mare just cackled. “Oh no no. Ah jus’ hope it's easy to replace, since at least one of your marefriends is prob'bly gonna be tearin' it off of ya.”

Pinkie giggled. “They will! With their teeth!”

Applejack blinked. “What?”

“Mah money's on the pegasus.”

“Granny!” 

Granny Smith just smiled at Applejack. “Y’look nice, dear. Knock em dead,” she said, but paused at the door. “Leave the hat. Suit looks nicer without it.” 

With that last parting shot, the elder mare left the room with a chuckle.

Applejack stared at the spot her grandmother had stood in, desperately trying to come up with an reason to take off the suit, and put on something more reasonable. But Granny had said it looked nice.

She glanced back at the mirror, the edge of her lips tugging upwards as she looked over herself.

Maybe this ain’t so bad.

She took off her hat and set it on the vanity, and smiled as she turned to her friend. “So, Pinkie, ya got any tips for me?”

Pinkie stared, rubbing her chin with a hoof. “Hmmmmmmmmm.”

After a minute, Applejack’s patience was wearing thin. “Hm?”

“Well, always pre-heat the oven and ensure the baking sheet is properly warmed up, so–"

“Pinkie, I meant for the date.”

“Oh.” Pinkie shrugged. “That’s easy, be a gentlemare!”

“A gentlemare?” Applejack frowned. “Y’mean like Rarity? This ain’t exactly the right suit for that,” she said, glancing at the mirror.

Pinkie laughed. “No, silly, Rarity's a proper lady, not a proper gentlemare. There’s a difference!” She hopped over to Applejack, grinning as she nudged her friend. “You're more gentlemare material.”

“Really? What makes ya say that?”

“Well, you already match the description. Nice, respectful, friendly, polite, mannerly, good looks, proper poise and stuff,” Pinkie said, lifting a hoof for each point.
 
But Applejack still felt she was missing the point. “Don't that make me a lady?"

Pinkie shook her head. “Nah, you're not wearing enough makeup or fake eyelashes. You're very stallion-y, too.”

Applejack stared at Pinkie. “Beg yer pardon?”

Pinkie’s eyes widened in realization. “I mean, you like to take charge! Wear the pants in the relationship,” she giggled as she looked at Applejack. “Or in your case, the tailcoat!”

“… I'll take that as the compliment I think it's supposed t’be,” Applejack said, as she stared at herself in the mirror once again. 

Pinkie wasn’t wrong. She liked being in charge, and took to the role well. It was an unspoken fact in the group that if Twilight was absent, she was the de facto leader of their posse. With the alicorn present, she was Twilight’s right-hoof mare.

She grinned at the thought. Maybe that had played a part in their relationship? The mutual respect and admiration, how they valued logic and common sense – traits sometimes lacking in their friends. And perhaps, most of all, how they were often the first pony they approached with a problem. 

And it was Pinkie, of all ponies, who’d made her realize this. She shook her head, smiling. Wonders never cease. 

“Where’d you get this thing, Pinkie? It fits perfectly.”

Pinkie giggled. “It’s mine!” 

“What?” Applejack stared. “I can’t wear this!”

The pink mare’s ears drooped. “Why not? Is something wrong with it? It’s the streamers, isn’t it?” Pinkie narrowed her eyes. “Not enough streamers!”

Applejack shook her head. “S’not that, Sugarcube. I jus’ don’t wanna get it dirty.”

Pinkie giggle-snorted. “Aww! Don’t worry, silly filly! It’s for a good cause!”

“It is?”

“Well yeah. I figure either Twilight or Dashie are gonna be tearing it off you tonight!”

“Oh for– Not you too!” Applejack mumbled, her cheeks burning. If she was honest, and she usually was, she figured Granny was right. Of the two, Dash was probably the one who’d be putting the moves on Twilight and herself tonight.

It was still sinking in that Twilight wasn’t her only marefriend now. Had it only been a few days since Rarity dropped the whole thing on their laps? 

So much had happened, and so much had changed. Yet things really didn’t feel that different, either. Applejack knew this wasn't the case – she knew that letting Rainbow into the relationship would change it. Permanently.

Maybe Twilight was right to be worried. Applejack couldn't say she wasn't, either. Maybe even afraid.

But she had faith in her friends. In Fluttershy, Pinkie, and Rarity. In Rainbow and Twilight. 

Those two, more than any others in Equestria. 

They’d pull through. They’d make it work. 

She gave herself one final look in the mirror, and liked what she saw. She was ready to go.

No sense in stallin’.

Pinkie seemed to agree, as the pink pony was nudging Applejack towards the door. “Go on! Have fun.”

“I will,” Applejack said, smiling. She trotted to the door, pausing at the edge. She turned her head and looked at Pinkie once again. “Pinkie?”

“Yeah?” 

“Thanks. For everything.”

“Anytime!” Pinkie grinned, then waved Applejack away. “Now shoo!”

Applejack nodded, heading out. It wouldn't do to have her dates waiting for her.

After all, she was a gentlemare.