That’s all there was. No matter which way I turned. Darkness.
And sound. So much sound, coming from everywhere.
Constant beeping. A strange whirring noise coming from somewhere near my chest. The clatter of something hard on the ground, a constant tak tak tak.
“Can you hear me?”
Of course I can hear you! I can hear everything in this…this….where am I? How did I end up here?
For that matter, WHO am I?
That’s the thought that frightens me the most. I’m trying to look around, move my legs, something to get out of this nightmare I’ve become trapped in. But no matter how much I try, my body won’t cooperate. It won’t listen to me. It’s quiet now. The only thing I can hear is the breathing of several individuals. The beeping is still there. The mechanical noise coming from my chest.
“You’ve been in quite an accident. You’re in Ponyville hospital. I am Dr. Stableforth. You’ve been in a coma the last few days. Do you understand this?”
I try to speak, but the words won’t come. I know them. I know what they’re supposed to be. Why can’t I talk? Did something happen to my voice? Will I be able to talk again?
“You have a breathing tube in your throat. I’m going to need you to nod or shake your head to answer my questions, okay?”
I tilt my head ever so slightly. I feel as helpless as a newborn, each movement zapping what little energy I have. I don’t understand. I'm laying here, but I feel as though I just went ten rounds with a manticore.
“—been in a coma, like I said. There have been some complications resulting from the accident you had out in town. You suffered a mild stroke, and you had some internal bleeding in your brain. Right now, you’re suffering from some vision loss, but we’re hoping that will clear up with time. However, your cerebellum has been damaged, and as such, your memories have been affected. We’ll be doing a few more tests to determine how much has been affected, but for now I want you to just rest and take it easy for a few days, okay?”
Okay. So I can’t see. It’s not some nightmarish pit I’m trapped in. It's just a nightmare.
Memory affected? Is that why I don’t know who I am? Well of course. Why would I not know who I am otherwise? This is the worst feeling. I wouldn’t wish this on my worst enemy. Wait, Do I have a worst enemy?
“You have a visitor. She was the one who brought you in. Is it alright if I let her in?”
Sure, why not? I’m afraid I won’t be good company though. And the way the good doctor has been talking, I might not be good company for a while. Of course, since this visitor brought me in, I should at least be courteous. I only wish I had time to look presentable.
Now where did that come from?
“Rares?”
That voice. I know that voice. Why do I know that voice?
“I heard you was wakin’ up. Hope ya don’t mind me stayin’?”
I like that voice. It makes me feel safe. Secure. Warm. Like I belong. But who is she? Why do I feel this way when she speaks? She seems to know me. Maybe I can learn what happened.
And why am I craving apples?
I nod towards the newcomer. It’s lonely, not being able to see who you’re talking to. Or whose talking to you, for that matter.
“Applejack here hasn’t left your side the whole time you’ve been here. You’re lucky to have such a friend.”
Applejack. I like her name. Strong; dependable. And for all it appears, she does seem to live up to that ideal. After all, the doctor said she’d been here the whole time, right? She hadn’t left. She’d stayed by me through it all. That has to mean something.
But why did she call me Rares? Is that my name? Rares? No, it has to be short for something. Or maybe Rare is my first name? That seems kind of odd, though. Maybe it has something to do with something I did before? Or some inside joke? Or maybe it’s a family name? I gotta figure out a way to make her tell me.
“—tube out tomorrow. The neurologist will be in tomorrow as well. He’ll be doing some exercises to see what kind of damage has been done, and we’ll determine what to do from there. If you need anything, there is a button on your left side. All you have to do is press it. Applejack will be staying for a bit, but I have told her you need your rest. So no overdoing things, ladies.”
There’s only one other person in the room now. And she sounds…….odd. Something is not right here. I know I’m out of sorts, as it were, but she seems to be the one with the breathing trouble. If I were to guess, I’d say she was….crying?
I want to reach out and comfort her. She seems to need comforting more than I do right now. Maybe that’s the medicine? I mean I know I should be panicking about being left in a room with a complete stranger, but my mind doesn’t care. It feels like nothing can bother me now.
But what was bothering her? She wasn’t the one in the hospital bed, trying to figure out who she was or what happened to her. Why was she so upset?
“It’s just not fair, Rarity.” So Rares WAS short for something. Rarity! My name is Rarity! “I told Big Mac he shouldn’t have loaded the dang cart so full. Maybe if I’d been faster, I could’ve stopped it. Or maybe…..I don’t know…”
So there was a cart. And apparently this ‘Big Mac’ had loaded it too full. Might this have something to do with my accident? But what was the cart used for? What was it carrying? And why would I be near a cart?
She’s leaning on me. I can feel her quietly sobbing into my lap. This is not good. I can already feel my eyes start to tear up as well. I don’t know why. I shouldn’t feel anything for this stranger, this Applejack. Even if she had brought me here. And stayed with me. And made me feel safe. And comforted.
Maybe I could give her some support? But what can I do? I can’t talk to her, not with this breathing tube in my throat. The only way I can communicate is by nodding or shaking my head. This poor girl is clearly upset, and there isn’t anything I can do for her. It’s not fair! She's made a huge sacrifice for me, has stayed by my side, and there’s nothing I can do for her? I refuse to believe it! There must be something.
“I’m sorry, Rares. I’m guessin’ these tears ain’t helping things a whole lot. Doc said you might not remember what happened or who I am, but I reckon there’s a little part of ya that knows. Always there to comfort a friend in a time of need.”
I’m stroking her mane. When did I do that? It hadn’t been a conscious thought. Indeed, I thought I couldn’t move anything. So how was I doing this? And WHY was I doing this? Surely she had other friends she could lean on? I didn’t need to be the one to comfort her.
And yet the thought of her crying is breaking my heart. Why do I care so much? I need to know. Maybe I’ll ask her tomorrow. When they get this silly tube out of my throat. Then I can ask her. Tomorrow.
Darkness. Again. Nothing but perpetual darkness.
It’s not as noisy as it was yesterday. The beeping of the machines is still there. I could hear the sound of someone breathing in some part of the room.
But there’s no whirring. And nothing is in my throat.
The tube!! They took the tube out!! I can move my mouth! I can talk!
“Mmmm…”
So dry! I need water! Anypony? There’s gotta be some nearby. Wait! Where’s that button the doctor was talking about? This thirst is killing me. It’s like I’m swimming in a desert!
“I gotcha Sugarcube. Easy does it.”
I feel the straw hit me in the nose as I fumble around, trying desperately to get some water down my parched throat. The water was cool, and tasted slightly stale, as if it had been there all day. Sweet blessed relief! Never have I tasted anything so good! At least, not that I remember….
“Now take it easy, Rarity. Doc doesn’t want you talkin’ just yet. Somethin’ about recup—recoupe—getting’ better and restin’. It’s about 7 in the mornin’. They came and took the breathin’ tube outta yer throat. And let me tell ya’, that was more disgustin’ than feedin’ slop to the pigs.”
She’s chuckling like that was a pretty funny joke. Pigs? Does that mean she has a farm? She’s a farmer?
Why am I friends with a farmer? I don’t even like dirt. At least, I don't think I do.
“I’ll go let the Doc know yer up. I’m sure he’s got all sorts of questions for ya.”
I’ve got a couple questions myself. How long am I supposed to be like this? When will my memories return? When will I see again? Will I see again? How am I gonna take care of myself without being able to see? Where do I go once the doctor says I’m healed? Will I have to stay here forever?
Who am I really?
”Hi there! Can you hear me? It’s Dr. Stableforth. How are you doing today?”
I’m about to open my mouth to speak when I remember what Applejack said about resting. So I just smile.
“Good! Applejack said you already tried talking? We’re gonna try to keep that to a minimum for now. We don’t want you to rush getting better. We’re going to take things nice and slow. Do you remember where you are?”
Yes. I'm in Ponyville hospital. I nod slowly.
“Good! Glad to hear it! Neurology is going to be here in about half an hour. Like I mentioned yesterday, they’re going to do some tests. They’re also going to ask you some questions. Now, I don’t want you talking just yet, so there will be a device they’re going to put on you. The device has a spell that will allow you to speak, in a sense. All you have to do is think of what you wanna say, and the device creates the voice for you. Understand?”
I think it talks. Not that difficult of a concept, really.
“Are you okay with Applejack being there? If not, it’s fine. We don’t want to make you uncomfortable.”
Sure. Why not? She might be able to answer some of my questions, too. After all, she knows who I am better than I do. I give my consent and wait.
It’s not long until I hear shuffling in the room, as several bodies entered. Probably the neurologists Dr. Stableforth had mentioned.
“Hello! My name is Dr. Lobias, but you may call me Lobe. I am a neurologist here at the hospital. And what that means is I deal with matters involving the brain. Forgive me if I appear rude, Ms. Rarity, but we are pleasantly surprised to see you in such good shape, considering all that has happened. The device I’m going to place on you will allow you to speak using your thoughts. All you have to do is think the answers you want to give. I’m going to ask you a series of questions, just to determine how extensive the damage is. Ready?”
It feels like a hat is being placed on my head, only it’s not. It’s like there’s a skeleton of a hat, only not enough to actually be a hat.
“Tell me, do you remember anything at all about the incident that brought you here?”
No.
“Very well. Amnesia is not uncommon with brain injuries. Do you remember anything before waking up in the hospital?”
No.
“Indeed. Do you know your name?”
Rarity.
“Date of birth?”
No idea.
“Hmm. How do you know your name is Rarity?”
Because Applejack said it was.
“How do you know Applejack?”
She was here when I woke up. Dr. Stableforth said she brought me in.
“I see. Well, Rarity, it seems that you have a severe case of retrograde amnesia. Most likely this is due to the accident which brought you here. Unfortunately, we can’t use magic to fix what’s wrong. With brain trauma, we’ve found that it’s best to just let the brain heal naturally.”
Will it hurt?
“Not at all. We also want you to wear this helmet for a bit. It will get your brain back into processing mode, and should help you relearn speech patterns.”
It’s not uncomfortable. Sure I’ll give it a shot.
“Splendid. I just need to talk with Applejack for a moment, and then we will be out of your mane.”
I can hear whispering. They’re too quiet. I hope Applejack stays for a bit. Maybe I can talk to her.
“Alright, Ms. Rarity. I am leaving now. I’ll let you and Applejack get settled. Thank you so much again for agreeing to this.”
Goodbye, Dr. Lobe.
“So, Sugarcube, ya got any questions for me?”
Who am I?
“I figured that’d be the first. Your name is Rarity. You’ve been a resident of Ponyville for a good 10 years at least. As long as I’ve known you, anyway. You run the Carousel Boutique, a clothin’ store you started from scratch and turned into quite a nice shop. Of course, I don’t go into all that frou-frou stuff, but it makes you happy. You got a little sister named Sweetie Belle, who you absolutely adore. Your best friend’s a pegasus named Fluttershy. She’s a quiet one, and she’ll jump at just about anything scarier than her own shadow. And even that sometimes.” She’s chuckling.
How come you’re here and she isn’t? No offense intended.
“None taken, Sugarcube. I told the girls I would look after ya. They all got responsibilities, and this being kinda the off season fer apples, I figured I could just let Big Mac run the Farm.”
What did I do? What were my hobbies?
“Well, I reckon dressin’ up and lookin’ pretty would just about sum it up. I’m kiddin’, Sugarcube. Let’s see…. Y’know, I don’t know if I can answer that one. You’d always seemed so into your work, designing dresses and what-not. We never really spent a whole heap of time just hangin’ out, just the two of us. Usually, we’d be spending time with the girls; Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, and Twilight Sparkle. Oh! You did love the spa. You’d go every week with Fluttershy. Said it made ya feel like a million bits. I was never really into that stuff, but you were always tryin’ to get Rainbow and I to come along and get prettied up or something.”
Every week? Was I really that vain?
“Oh no, I don’t think it had anythin’ to do with vanity. You’d always taken really good care of yourself, that’s all. Makin’ sure you was always presentable. To be honest, it always made me a little jealous. Everywhere you went, everypony would watch as you walked by. Some would even come up and talk to ya. Poor fellas never stood a chance.”
Was I mean to them? Do they hate me? I sound like a selfish snob.
“Nopony hates you, Rares! Don’t ever think it! And you are not selfish! I can’t count the number of times you’ve come through for yer friends, and the number of strangers you’ve helped along the way! You’ve always put other ponies well-bein’ ahead of yer own, and that’s why I-We love you. All us girls. Even when…”
Even when what?
“I suppose your gonna find out sooner or later. There was this big hootenanny they do every year called the Grand Gallopin’ Gala. All us girls had gone, and you’d outdone yourself be designing all our dresses. When we got there, you’d been captivated by one of the stallions there, Prince Blueblood. Boy did that turn out badly. He was such a jerk to ya, Rares. I thought fer sure you was just gonna give him a good tongue-lashin’, but you didn’t. It weren’t until after he spat out my homemade apple fritter that you finally stood up to him. Course, mighta been him shieldin’ himself from the cake with your pretty dress. I’d never seen ya so angry. Twilight and Princess Celestia walked in after that. Course by then, things had gotten a mite crazy. We skedaddled pretty quick, headed down to Joe’s, and grabbed some donuts. Night turned out pretty good after that.”
So safe to say no princes after that?
“Nah. You poured yourself into your work. I think that no-good Blueblood had pretty much sealed the deal on you datin’ fer a while. I don’t think you ever got serious with any pony after that.”
So no relationships. What about other family? You said I had a sister?
“Eeyup. Sweetie Belle. Cutest little filly. Loves ya to pieces. Spends all her time with my sister Applebloom and a schoolmate of theirs named Scootaloo. She’s livin’ with your parents until your memory comes back.”
That’s probably for the best. I don’t know what I would say to her.
“Don’t worry ‘bout her. She’s in good hooves.”
What about you Applejack? What’s your story?
“You wanna know about me?”
Yes. You seem to know a great deal about who I am, and you must care about me if you stayed here while I was in a coma. I would like to get to know you. Maybe try to figure out how we became friends.
“Alright. That’s fair enough, I’d reckon. Name’s Applejack, though you already know that. I live on Sweet Apple Acres with Big Mac, Applebloom, and Granny Smith. Big Mac’s the oldest; he’s stubborn, and he don’t talk much. At least, not to ponies besides family. Applebloom’s a trouble maker. She can’t seem to stop getting’ in trouble. And Granny Smith has to be the oldest pony Equestria. She’s ornery, and don’t take no flak from nopony. Like I said, we live at Sweet Apple Acres. It’s a big farm on the outskirts of Ponyville. We’re known throughout all of Equestria fer our Zap Apple Jam and homemade cider.”
What about your parents?
“They’re……gone. Been a couple years now. I don’t like to talk about it.”
I am so sorry, Applejack. I didn’t know.
“Reckon no way you could’ve.”
Any other family or friends?
“Well, there’s Apples spread throughout all of Equestria, from Los Pegasus all the way to Baltimare, and anywhere in between. The Oranges live in Manehattan- they’re my ma’s side of the family. Don’t really visit as often as I’d like, but them and the Apples don’t see eye to eye on a lot of stuff. As far as friends go You, Twi, Pinkie, Flutters and Rainbow are my best friends. I guess you could say I was friends with most everypony else in Ponyville, though. Not as close as us gals are, but I reckon they’d help if I asked.”
You sound like a very popula—Ahh oh dear. Do forgive me for yawning. I didn’t realize I was so tired.
“Schucks, Rarity. No need to apologize. Truth be told, I could use a little break. We’ve been talkin’ a mighty long while, and I suppose I shouldn’t be keepin’ you up. Good night.”
Applejack?
“Yeah, Sugarcube?”
Thanks for talking with me.
“My pleasure.”
And Applejack?
“Yeah?”
Can we do this again tomorrow?
"Absolutely. Anything else?"
Could you take this device off? It’s kind of heavy.
“Sure thing. And don’t worry ‘bout anything. I’ll be stayin’ right here, case you need anything.”
That’s nice of her.
That’s the last thought I have before sleep overtakes me.
It’s the middle of the night. Or at least it sounds like it. The machines are beeping, but I can’t hear anypony moving. There’s only the sound of my labored breathing, and something growling in the corner. No. Not growling. It’s too rhythmic. Too even.
Snoring.
Poor Applejack, sleeping somewhere in the room. She sounds like a little train locomotive. I hope all that talking today hasn’t made her too tired to continue tomorrow, or caused her to be a little hoarse. Ha! A little hoarse.
I need more sleep. That was a horrible joke. Maybe if I just close my eyes, I’ll be able to-
Where am I? This is nothing like the Ponyville hospital. I’m in a flat, empty, motionless void. But I see something! Finally, something I can see! But what is it? It looks like a six legged pony. Only it has a purple polka dotted mane. And it’s eyes! There were stars shooting out of it! And what was that garish basket she was carrying? It looks like it’s full of sparkly eggs! How amazing! Whatever could this mean? There must be someone who knows. I’ll ask Applejack. She’ll tell me.
That’s all there was. No matter which way I turned. Darkness.
And sound. So much sound, coming from everywhere.
Constant beeping. A strange whirring noise coming from somewhere near my chest. The clatter of something hard on the ground, a constant tak tak tak.
“Can you hear me?”
Of course I can hear you! I can hear everything in this…this….where am I? How did I end up here?
For that matter, WHO am I?
That’s the thought that frightens me the most. I’m trying to look around, move my legs, something to get out of this nightmare I’ve become trapped in. But no matter how much I try, my body won’t cooperate. It won’t listen to me.
It’s quiet now. The only thing I can hear is the breathing of several individuals. The beeping is still there. The mechanical noise coming from my chest.
“You’ve been in quite an accident. You’re in Ponyville hospital. I am Dr. Stableforth. You’ve been in a coma the last few days. Do you understand this?”
I try to speak, but the words won’t come. I know them. I know what they’re supposed to be. Why can’t I talk? Did something happen to my voice? Will I be able to talk again?
“You have a breathing tube in your throat. I’m going to need you to nod or shake your head to answer my questions, okay?”
I nod. So weak. I feel as helpless as a newborn, each movement zapping what little energy I have. I don’t understand. I’m young. Or at least I feel like I should be young. At least, I don’t feel like I am old, per se. I am definitely not a baby, but I feel like I could be a young adult maybe? I’ll sort that out later.
“—been in a coma, like I said. There have been some complications resulting from the accident you had out in town. You suffered a mild stroke, and you had some internal bleeding in your brain. Right now, you’re suffering from some vision loss, but we’re hoping that will clear up with time. However, your cerebellum has been damaged, and as such, your memories have been affected. We’ll be doing a few more tests to determine how much has been affected, but for now I want you to just rest and take it easy for a few days, okay?”
Okay. So I can’t see. It’s not some nightmarish pit I’m trapped in. It’s dark because I can’t see. I can figure this out. Memory affected? Is that why I don’t know who I am? Has to be. What other reason could there be ? It’s not like I would want to forget everything. I wouldn’t wish this on my worst enemy.
“You have a visitor. She was the one who brought you in. Is it alright if I let her in?”
Sure, why not? I’m afraid I won’t be good company though. And the way the good doctor has been talking, I might not be good company for a while. Of course, since this visitor brought me in, I should at least be courteous. I only wish I had time to look presentable.
Now where did that come from?
“Rares?”
That voice. I know that voice. Why do I know that voice?
“I heard you was wakin’ up. Hope ya don’t mind me stayin’?”
I like that voice. It makes me feel safe. Secure. Warm. Like I belong. But who is she? Why do I feel this way when she speaks? She seems to know me. Maybe I can learn what happened.
And why am I craving apples?
I nod. It’s lonely, not being able to see who you’re talking to. Or whose talking to you, for that matter.
“Applejack here hasn’t left your side the whole time you’ve been here. You’re lucky to have such a friend.”
Applejack. I like her name. Strong; dependable. And for all it appears, she does seem to live up to that ideal. After all, the doctor said she’d been here the whole time, right? She hadn’t left. She’d stayed by me through it all. That has to mean something.
But why did she call me Rares? Is that my name? Rares? No, it has to be short for something. Or maybe Rare is my first name? That seems kind of odd, though. Maybe it has something to do with something I did before? Or some inside joke? Or maybe it’s a family name? I gotta figure out a way to make her tell me.
“—tube out tomorrow. The neurologist will be in tomorrow as well. He’ll be doing some exercises to see what kind of damage has been done, and we’ll determine what to do from there. If you need anything, there is a button on your left side. All you have to do is press it. Applejack will be staying for a bit, but I have told her you need your rest. So no overdoing things, ladies.”
There’s only one other person in the room now. And she sounds…….odd. Something is not right here. I know I’m out of sorts, as it were, but she seems to be the one with the breathing trouble. If I were to guess, I’d say she was….crying?
I wanted to reach out and comfort her. She seemed to need comforting more than me right now. Maybe that’s the medicine? I mean I know I should be panicking about being left in a room with a complete stranger, but my mind didn’t care. It feels like nothing can bother me now.
But what was bothering her? She wasn’t the one in the hospital bed, trying to figure out who she was or what happened to her. Why was she so upset?
Why WAS she upset?
“It’s just not fair, Rarity.” So Rares WAS short for something. Rarity! My name is Rarity! “I told Big Mac he shouldn’t have loaded the dang cart so full. Maybe if I’d been faster, I could’ve stopped it. Or maybe…..I don’t know…”
So there was a cart. And apparently this ‘Big Mac’ had loaded it too full. Might this have something to do with my accident? But what was the cart used for? What was it carrying? And why would I be near a cart?
She’s leaning on me. I can feel her quietly sobbing into my lap. This is not good. I can already feel my eyes start to tear up as well. I don’t know why. I shouldn’t feel anything for this stranger, this Applejack. Even if she had brought me here. And stayed with me. And made me feel safe. And comforted.
Maybe I could give her some support? But what can I do? I can’t talk to her, not with this breathing tube in my throat. The only way I can communicate is by nodding or shaking my head. This poor girl is clearly upset, and there isn’t anything I can do for her. It’s not fair! This brave lady has made a huge sacrifice for me, has stayed by my side, and there’s nothing I can do for her?
“I’m sorry, Rares. I’m guessin’ these tears ain’t helping things a whole lot. Doc said you might not remember what happened or who I am, but I reckon there’s a little part of ya that knows. Always there to comfort a friend in a time of need.”
I’m stroking her mane. When did I do that? It hadn’t been a conscious thought. Indeed, I thought I couldn’t move anything. So how was I doing this? And WHY was I doing this? Surely she had other friends she could lean on? I didn’t need to be the one to comfort her.
And yet the thought of her crying is breaking my heart. Why do I care so much? I need to know. Maybe I’ll ask her tomorrow. When they get this silly tube out of my throat. Then I can ask her. Tomorrow.
******
Darkness. Again. Nothing but perpetual darkness.
It’s not as noisy as it was yesterday. The beeping of the machines is still there. I could hear the sound of someone breathing in some part of the room.
But there’s no whirring. And nothing is in my throat.
The tube!! They took the tube out!! I can move my mouth! I can talk!
“Mmmm…”
So dry! I need water! Where’s the water? There’s gotta be a cup of the stuff nearby. Wait! Where’s that button the doctor was talking about? This thirst is killing me. It’s like I’m swimming in a desert!
“I gotcha Sugarcube. Easy does it.”
I felt the straw hit me in the nose as I fumbled around, trying desperately to get some water down my parched throat. The water was cool, and tasted slightly stale, as if it had been there all day. Sweet blessed relief! Never have I tasted anything so good! At least, not that I remember….
“Now take it easy, Rarity. Doc doesn’t want you talkin’ just yet. Somethin’ about recup—recoupe—getting’ better and restin’.
“It’s about 7 in the mornin’. They came and took the breathin’ tube outta yer throat. And let me tell ya’, that was more disgustin’ than feedin’ slop to the pigs.”
She’s chuckling like that was a pretty funny joke. Pigs? Does that mean she has a farm? She’s a farmer?
Why am I friends with a farmer? I don’t even like dirt.
“I’ll go let the Doc know yer up. I’m sure he’s got all sorts ah questions for ya.”
I’ve got a couple questions myself. Like how did I get here exactly? How long am I supposed to be like this? How am I gonna take care of myself without being able to see? Where do I go once the doctor says I’m healed? Will I have to stay here forever?
Who am I really?
”Hi there! Can you hear me? It’s Dr. Stableforth. How are you doing today?”
I’m about to open my mouth to speak when I remember what Applejack said about resting. So I just nod.
“Good! Applejack said you already tried talking? We’re gonna try to keep that to a minimum for now. We don’t want you to rush getting better. We’re going to take things nice and slow. Do you remember where you are?”
Yes. Ponyville hospital. I nod my affirmative.
“Good! Glad to hear it! Neurology is going to be here in about half an hour. Like I mentioned yesterday, they’re going to do some tests. They’re also going to ask you some questions. Now, I don’t want you talking just yet, so there will be a device they’re going to put on you. The device has a spell that will allow you to speak, in a sense. All you have to do is think of what you wanna say, and the device creates the voice for you. Understand?”
I think it talks. Got it. Not that difficult of a concept, really.
“Are you okay with Applejack being there? If not, it’s fine. We don’t want to make you uncomfortable.”
Sure. Why not? She might be able to answer some of my questions, too. After all, she knows who I am better than I do. I give my consent and wait.
It’s not long until I hear shuffling in the room, as several bodies entered. Probably the neurologists Dr. Stableforth had mentioned.
“Hello! My name is Dr. Lobias, but you may call me Lobe. I am a neurologist here at the hospital. And what that means is I deal with matters involving the brain. Forgive me if I appear rude, Ms. Rarity, but we are pleasantly surprised to see you in such good shape, considering all that has happened. The device I’m going to place on you will allow you to speak using your thoughts. All you have to do is think the answers you want to give. I’m going to ask you a series of questions, just to determine how extensive the damage is. Ready?”
It feels like a hat is being placed on my head, only it’s not. It’s like there’s a skeleton of a hat, only not enough to actually be a hat.
“Tell me, do you remember anything at all about the incident that brought you here?”
No.
“Very well. Amnesia is not uncommon with brain injuries. Do you remember anything before waking up in the hospital?”
No.
“Indeed. Do you know your name?”
Rarity.
“Date of birth?”
No idea.
“Hmm. How do you know your name is Rarity?”
Because Applejack said it was.
“How do you know Applejack?”
She was here when I woke up. Dr. Stableforth said she brought me in.
“I see. Well, Rarity, it seems that you have a severe case of retrograde amnesia. Most likely this is due to the accident which brought you here. Unfortunately, we can’t use magic to fix what’s wrong. With brain trauma, we’ve found that it’s best to just let the brain heal naturally.”
Will it hurt?
“Not at all. We also want you to wear this helmet for a bit. It will get your brain back into processing mode, and should help you relearn speech patterns.”
It’s not uncomfortable. Sure I’ll give it a shot.
“Splendid. I just need to talk with Applejack for a moment, and then we will be out of your mane.”
I can hear whispering. They’re too quiet. I hope Applejack stays for a bit. Maybe I can talk to her.
“Alright, Ms. Rarity. I am leaving now. I’ll let you and Applejack get settled. Thank you so much again for agreeing to this.”
Goodbye, Dr. Lobe.
“So, Sugarcube, ya got any questions for me?”
Who am I?
“I figured that’d be the first. Your name is Rarity. You’ve been a resident of Ponyville for a good 10 years at least. As long as I’ve known you, anyway. You run the Carousel Boutique, a clothin’ store ya started from scratch and turned into quite a nice shop. Of course, I don’t go into all that frou-frou stuff, but it makes you happy. You got a little sister named Sweetie Belle, who you absolutely adore. Your best friend’s a pegasus named Fluttershy. She’s a quiet one, and she’ll jump at just about anything scarier than her own shadow. And even that sometimes.” She’s chuckling.
How come you’re here and she isn’t? No offense intended.
“None taken, Sugarcube. I told the girls I would look after ya. They all got responsibilities, and this being kinda the off season fer apples, I figured I could just let Big Mac run the Farm.”
What did I do? What were my hobbies?
“Well, I reckon dressin’ up and lookin’ pretty would just about sum it up. I’m kiddin’, Sugarcube. Let’s see…. Y’know, I don’t know if I can answer that one. You’d always seemed so into your work, designing dresses and what-not. We never really spent a whole heap of time just hangin’ out, just the two of us. Usually, we’d be spending time with the girls; Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, and Twilight Sparkle. Oh! You did love the spa. You’d go every week with Fluttershy. Said it made ya feel like a million bits. I was never really into that stuff, but you were always tryin’ to get Rainbow and I to come along and get prettied up or something.”
Every week? Was I really that vain?
“Oh no, I don’t think it had anythin’ to do with vanity. You’d always taken really good care of yourself, that’s all. Makin’ sure you was always presentable. To be honest, it always made me a little jealous. Everywhere you went, everypony would watch as you walked by. Some would even come up and talk to ya. Poor fellas never stood a chance.”
Was I mean to them? Do they hate me? I sound like a selfish snob.
“Nopony hates you, Rares! Don’t ever think it! And you are not selfish! I can’t count the number of times you’ve come through for yer friends, and the number of strangers you’ve helped along the way! You’ve always put other ponies well-bein’ ahead of yer own, and that’s why I-We love you. All us girls. Even when…” She’s stopped.
Even when what?
“I suppose your gonna find out sooner or later. There was this big hootenanny they do every year called the Grand Gallopin’ Gala. All us girls had gone, and you’d outdone yourself be designing all our dresses. When we got there, you’d been captivated by one of the stallions there, Prince Blueblood. Boy did that turn out badly. He was such a jerk to ya, Rares. I thought fer sure you was just gonna give him a good tongue-lashin’, but you didn’t. It weren’t until after he spat out my homemade apple fritter that you finally stood up to him. Course, mighta been him shieldin’ himself from the cake with your pretty dress. I’d never seen ya so angry. Twilight and Princess Celestia walked in after that. Course by then, things had gotten a mite crazy. We skedaddled pretty quick, headed down to Joe’s, and grabbed some donuts. Night turned out pretty good after that.”
So safe to say no princes after that?
“Nah. You poured yourself into your work. I think that no-good Blueblood had pretty much sealed the deal on you datin’ fer a while. I don’t think you ever got serious with any pony after that.”
So no relationships. What about other family? You said I had a sister?
“Eeyup. Sweetie Belle. Cutest little filly. Loves ya to pieces. Spends all her time with my sister Applebloom and a schoolmate of theirs named Scootaloo. She’s livin’ with your parents until your memory comes back.”
That’s probably for the best. I don’t know what I would say to her.
“Don’t worry ‘bout her. She’s in good hooves.”
What about you Applejack? What’s your story?
“You wanna know about me?”
Yes. You seem to know a great deal about who I am, and you must care about me if you stayed here while I was in a coma. I would like to get to know you. Maybe try to figure out how we became friends.
“Alright. That’s fair enough, I’d reckon. Name’s Applejack, though you already know that. I live on Sweet Apple Acres with Big Mac, Applebloom, and Granny Smith. Big Mac’s the oldest; he’s stubborn, and he don’t talk much. At least, not to ponies besides family. Applebloom’s a trouble maker. She can’t seem to stop getting’ in trouble. And Granny Smith has to be the oldest pony Equestria. She’s ornery, and don’t take no flak from nopony. Like I said, we live at Sweet Apple Acres. It’s a big farm on the outskirts of Ponyville. We’re known throughout all of Equestria fer our Zap Apple Jam and homemade cider.”
What about your parents?
“They’re……gone. Been a couple years now. I don’t like to talk about it.”
I am so sorry, Applejack. I didn’t know.
“Reckon no way you could’ve.”
Any other family or friends?
“Well, there’s Apples spread throughout all of Equestria, from Los Pegasus all the way to Baltimare, and anywhere in between. The Oranges live in Manehattan- they’re my ma’s side of the family. Don’t really visit as often as I’d like, but them and the Apples don’t see eye to eye on a lot of stuff. As far as friends go You, Twi, Pinkie, Flutters and Rainbow are my best friends. I guess you could say I was friends with most everypony else in Ponyville, though. Not as close as us gals are, but I reckon they’d help if I asked.”
You sound like a very popula—Ahh oh dear. Do forgive me for yawning. I didn’t realize I was so tired.
“Schucks, Rarity. No need to apologize. Truth be told, I could use a little break. We’ve been talkin’ a mighty long while, and I suppose I shouldn’t be keepin’ you up. Good night.”
Applejack?
“Yeah, Sugarcube?”
Thanks for talking with me.
“My pleasure.”
And Applejack?
“Yeah?”
Could you take this device off? It’s kind of heavy.
“Sure thing. And don’t worry ‘bout anything. I’ll be stayin’ right here, case you need anything.”
That’s nice of her.
That’s the last thought I have before sleep overtakes me.
It’s the middle of the night. Or at least it sounds like it. The machines are beeping, but I can’t hear anypony moving. There’s only the sound of my labored breathing, and something growling in the corner. No. Not growling. It’s too rhythmic. Too even.
Snoring.
Poor Applejack, sleeping somewhere in the room. She sounds like a little train locomotive. I hope all that talking today hasn’t made her too tired to continue tomorrow, or caused her to be a little hoarse. Ha! A little hoarse.
I need more sleep. That was a horrible joke.
Maybe if I just close my eyes, I’ll be able to-
Where am I? This is nothing like the Ponyville hospital. I’m in a flat, empty, motionless void. But I see something! Finally, something I can see! But what is it? It looks like a six legged pony. Only it has a purple polka dotted mane. And it’s eyes! There were stars shooting out of it! And what was that garish basket she was carrying? It looks like it’s full of sparkly eggs! How amazing!
Whatever could this mean? There must be someone who knows. I’ll ask Applejack. She’ll tell me.
She’s a nice pony.
****
“That’s from our first slumber party at Twi’s. We’d just spent most of the night arguin’ about all sorts of silly stuff. Can’t seem to remember most of it. But we played a game called Twenty Questions. Twilight was thinkin’ of somethin’ and we were gonna figure out what it was. We was stumped fer a long time, ‘til we both started spoutin’ plum crazy answers. And then she’d said we’d guessed it. “
There was a storm. Lightning crashing, rain coming down sideways. A tree branch had come crashing in the library. I turned it into tiny little topiaries. Earth pony. Horseshoes. Butterfly. Heart. Pegasus.
“What’s wrong, Sugarcube? You look upset. Do I need to get the doctor?”
It must have shown on my face. I pointed to my head and smiled.
“Memories,” I whispered.
Memories. I had Memories.
I may not know exactly who I am. But I have memories. Short, broken memories. But mine.
“Are your memories returning? That’s fantastic, Rares! Anything in particular? Was it about the slumber party?”
I smiled again. I could feel her glee as she whooped and hollered. If I could have, I would have gladly joined her. I felt exactly the same.
“Doc! Doc! Come quick! She’s ‘membered something!”
Applejack must have gone outside. She sounds like she’s underwater.
It’s amazing. Here she was the first pony to help me when I woke up. Staying at the hospital for days, waiting for me to get better. And now, the first memory to come back, and there she was again. It seems like no matter where I turn, she’s always there. Even though we just met, I consider myself lucky to have her as a friend.
“Tell ‘em Rares. Tell ‘em what you remember.”
I try my best to explain to Dr. Stableforth what exactly I remember. It’s slow going, and I constantly have to drink water while I’m speaking. When I finish telling him, he doesn’t say anything. In fact, no one does.
After what seemed like an eternity, I hear a breath being drawn in.
“While this is certainly good news, I don’t want to get you too excited Ms. Rarity. This memory may be the only one that comes back for a while. Don’t try to rush it. You too, Ms. Applejack. I don’t want you trying to bring back memories. Let them come on their own. Agreed?”
I smile at the doctor. Or at least, I hope I’m smiling at him. It’s so hard to know exactly where you’re looking when you can’t see. But I must have reassured him somewhat, for I could hear him leaving the room, whistling.
“Yee-haw! I’m gonna go see about getting’ some apple turnovers to celebrate. Would y’all be up fer one, Sugar?”
Apple turnover? Do I like them? She seems very enthused about it. They must be a good thing. I don’t think Applejack would try to hurt me.
“Sounds lovely,” I croak.
A few weeks later……
I’m running as fast as I can go. Yet no matter how fast I am or where I turn, they’re still there. Chasing me. Always right behind me. I’m so scared. Who are they? What do they want? Shadows everywhere .I can’t escape. Someone help. Help me.
“HELP ME!”
I’m screaming. Why can’t I stop? It’s the shadows. Always watching. Right behind me. I’m so scared.
“Rarity! Easy there, I gotcha. Yer safe, Sugarcube. There, there. It’s alright. It was just a nightmare. Shh. Everything’s fine.”
She’s stroking my mane, whispering softly to me. I’m crying. I can feel the moisture fall down my cheek and onto her chest .I feel her rise and fall with each breath; the even beats of her heart a sharp contrast to the rapidity of mine. I feel so much safer when she’s here. Like I can overcome these fears. Or anything else life has to throw at me. I feel safe.
It’s taken a while, but I’ve finally calmed down enough to look around. Everything’s blurry through the tears, but I can start to see light beginning to stream in through the window. The pale light of dawn gave everything in the room a grey tint, as if life was just returning to this long dormant cave; the furniture brightening as the sunlight brought the color back from a cold, unfeeling night. The room was sparse; almost Spartan in its lack of furnishings. The bed on which Applejack was comforting me was small, barely large enough for one pony, and the wood frame was starting to splinter in places. The only other furniture, the armoire tucked into the corner, was definitely a well-loved antique, no doubt handed down through the Apple family for generations.
The Apples. They’d been so nice to me after getting out of the hospital. Applejack had graciously offered the use of her home while I recuperated, and they’d all been so supportive. Even the youngest, What was her name? Something with blossoming? Or flowers? Bloom. Applebloom.
Even she had graciously offered the use of her room as my own, until I was well enough to be self-sufficient. And although my eyesight had returned, there was still a lot I did not know. No more memories had come. Instead, there were just these vicious nightmares.
Finally, I looked up at Applejack. Her flowing blonde mane was tied back in her usual manner, and she wore her trademark hat. Her orange coat was rough and unkempt; her eyes were puffy and she was fighting back a yawn. And even with all this, I couldn’t help but notice her beauty; the honest way she carried herself. Always open, no secrets to hide. Never putting herself first. Indeed, we’d spent a good portion of our nights talking, and no matter how late we stayed up, she was always the first one up in the morning. I admire her for that. I’m not sure I would be able to do that.
“Feelin’ better? Why don’t I go downstairs and make us a nice breakfast? The girls said they’d like to meet ya today, if’n your up fer it.”
The girls. Applejack had said I should meet them sooner or later. Sure she’d talked about them before. Some of their habits, their quirks. She’d especially warned me about the one who loves parties. I think her name was Pinkie. Yes, Pinkie Pie. The pony everyone liked. The one who'd throw a party for just about any occasion. And then there was the smart one, Twilight. The quiet one, Fluttershy. The athletic one, Rainbow Dash.
Yes, I think it’s time. After all, Applejack said we used to all be friends. She said we even had our own little club, the Elements of Harmony. Odd name for a club, in my opinion, but there must have been a reason for it. And there must have been a reason we became friends. I’m sure they’re just as nice as Applejack.
The smell of pancakes coming from downstairs is divine. Applejack really was a good cook, if only she’d just admit it to herself. Every time she’d received a compliment, though, she’d always mumble about us being too nice, and there were better cooks than her. Always self-effacing. Never one to be in the spotlight.
As I made my way downstairs, I said good morning to the other member of the household awake, Big McIntosh. He nodded his head at the greeting, and then went quietly back to eating his breakfast. He was a stallion of few words, Big Mac. Never one to wax poetic.
Sitting down at the table, I looked over at Applejack making pancakes. The apron she wore was covered with flour, and the red and white checkered cloth looked faded from age and years of wear and tear. Like everything else in the kitchen, it had a nice rustic charm that I couldn’t help but smile at.
“Applejack, I think I would like to meet the girls today, if it’s not too much of a problem,” I said nervously.
She smiled at me. “After breakfast, we’ll head into town. If you get uncomfortable, just let me know and we’ll head back. Don’t push yourself too hard, Rares.”
I nod. Truth be told, I am a little nervous. What if they don’t like me? What if I say something wrong? Sure, Applejack said if things got too uncomfortable, we can head back.
But what if I make things uncomfortable? Maybe I shouldn’t go. I could pretend to not be feeling well. I could just go upstairs and hide away in the bed. No one would blame me.
But I’d let Applejack down. And as much as she’s been there for me, I at least owe it to her to give it a shot. It’s just one meeting, right? I’m sure she won’t let anything bad happen.
****
“Hello, Ms. Rarity.”
“Welcome Back, Rarity.”
“Nice to see you, Ms. Rarity.”
They all seem to know me. Was I really that popular? Did everyone actually like me? Or did they just feel sorry for me? Is that it? Am I just the laughing stock now? Who are these ponies? Were we friends? Are some of them my enemies? It’s all too much. Maybe this was a bad idea. We should go.
“It’s alright Sugarcube. They’re just tryin’ to make you feel welcome is all. You can do this.”
Applejack’s putting a hoof around my shoulders. She’s right. I can do this. As long as she’s there, I can do anything. How did I get along before without her?
I look around at the town that I apparently called home. It’s quaint, to be sure. The architecture is sturdy, with timber framed houses scattered here and there throughout.
There were several larger shops and buildings, mostly used as gathering halls, I presume. Our destination, Applejack said, was a very large tree located towards the center of town. She said that it was a library, and that no pony would disturb us while I met the others. I do hope she’s right. I don’t know if I could stand to meet every single pony in town all in one day.
So lost in my thoughts, I had scarcely noticed we had arrived at our destination. I looked up at the massive tree while Applejack knocked. So this was the home of Twilight. It looked very cozy, I must admit. Too many balconies for my taste, but it had a comfy, down home feel to it. The sign out front said Golden Oak, and the red door had a rather large image of a candle.
I was distracted from my musings when the door opened and a lovely lavender pony stood in the doorway. She was an Alicorn, a unicorn with wings like a pegasus. She had a beautiful dark purple mane with a pink and purple stripe down the center. Behind her, I noticed several other ponies, each matching the descriptions Applejack gave.
There was Rainbow Dash, her multi-colored mane and tail contrasting nicely with her cyan coat. Her mane was flowing behind her as she flitted about the room. Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie were sitting at the table, the yellow pegasus listening intently as Pinkie gesticulated wildly, knocking over a stack of books next to her.
“Hi girls! Come on in! Make yourselves at home.”
The conversation stopped as everyone’s eyes turned in my direction. They’re looking at me expectantly. As if I’m supposed to be doing something. Was there some sort of secret ritual this little club had? Some passcode only its members knew?
“C’mon Sugarcube, don’t be shy. This here’s Twilight Sparkle, like I told ya. There’s Rainbow, Pinkie, and Fluttershy. Gals, this is Rarity.”
I nodded to each in turn. I could tell they were a little uncomfortable with me there. After all, I wasn’t their Rarity. To them, I was completely different. I was a stranger in their friend’s body. Not even two minutes in, and I was making everyone uncomfortable.
“So, Rarity. What would you like to do? Anything strike your fancy?” Twilight was rubbing her hoof on the back of her head, trying not to make things awkward.
I have to give it to her for trying. She wanted us to get to know each other, it seemed. Maybe I was just being paranoid. After all, this has got to be weird for them as well. I’m not the friend they knew. I can’t have the same kind of relationship they had before. But maybe I can try for a new one.
“Actually, I wouldn’t mind if I could get to know a little more about you? Applejack said we were all good friends before….the accident. Maybe you can tell me how we met for the first time? If it’s not too much trouble, that is.” I figured that should break the ice. Plus, it should give me some insight into how we had all become friends in the beginning.
“That sounds like a wonderful idea. Fluttershy, why don’t you start?” Twilight was definitely the leader of the group. She took charge almost naturally, and it seemed like the others deferred to her unconsciously.
“Um, well, okay. I can go first if you want. Um… hi….my name is Fluttershy. Um, we met when I was just a little filly. I had fallen from Cloudsdale, and I couldn’t get back. You came and comforted me until the Guards found me. You were my first real friend. B-besides Rainbow Dash, of course.” She really is timid. She hardly spoke above a whisper the entire time.
As they each shared their stories of how they had met me, I couldn’t help but feel the warmth. These girls really cared about Rarity. Me. With each telling, I could feel the room become more relaxed.
We spent the next few hours talking; them, sharing their memories, and me learning all I could. I learned about the adventures we’d had. It sounded so daring and adventurous. I didn’t think I could be as brave as they said I was. Of course, that was a different Rarity. The Elements of Harmony, it turned out, was not the name of our club. In fact, they were very powerful artifacts, one of which I controlled. Apparently, I am the Element of Generosity, a savior of Equestria.
It was all too much for me. I nudged Applejack, and we made our excuses. On the way back to Sweet Apple Acres, I confided to her that there was too much pressure. Being one of the Elements was overwhelming.
“Well, Sugarcube, it’s like this. You just gotta be who you are. Rainbow’d never leave one of her friends behind, just as sure as ‘Shy’d never cause harm to another livin’ thing. As fer me? I’m as bad at lyin’ as they come.”
I’d heard this before. In fact, it was one of the last things to be talked about at Twilight’s. But the way she said it now, it sounded….different. Why? We’re walking through the park, on the hill overlooking the marketplace. There’s no one here. It’s evening, and the sun is just beginning to set. There doesn’t appear to be any danger. In fact, I would say it’s almost serene. Why was she nervous?
“Applejack? Is something wrong? Was it something I said?”
She sighed and stopped walking. I turned to look at her, puzzled. Maybe I had said something I shouldn’t have. But what could it be?
“Two months, Rares. Two months ago, you had yer accident. I don’t suppose you’d remember, but it happened right there. We’d just got done with the apple harvest, and we had bushels and bushels to sell. You’d stopped by, wantin’ to show off a new hat you’d made. You kept askin’ me how it looked, sayin’ you worked all day on it, and it was gonna be a hit in Canterlot, or Manehattan. And it were finally gonna put your name on the map. And I kept ignorin’ you, pretendin’ I was busy. You got mad at me, and said I was a no-good selfish pony who didn’t give two bits about no one but herself.” She’s crying now. I can see the tears on her muzzle, reflecting the moonlight.
“And you were right. I was bein’ a selfish pony. I treated ya like dirt when you wanted somepony to lean on. I found out later from Twi you’d been havin’ some difficulties with the shop. And there I was, pretty much spittin’ on your hard work.”
“We got into a pretty big tiff, right there by the stall. You said I was jealous, I called ya ornery. Caused a mighty big scene. You ran off to the boutique, cryin’. Me being my stubborn self, I came here. To this hill. I wasn’t ready to apologize just yet. Anyhow, Big Mac seen me storm off, and he came up to talk to me, draggin’ behind him a full cartload of apples. Don’t know why he brought those blasted things up with him. We got to talkin’, and I was fixin’ to come apologize when I heard a snap from the cart. One of the shafts had snapped off and sent the cart down the hill, towards yer boutique. I tried racin’ after it, but I wasn’t fast enough. I couldn’t stop it.”
“It hit you right as you were coming out. I could only watch in horror as it sandwiched ya into the boutique. I’m sorry Rarity. I tried to stop it. I really did.”
I don’t know what to say. She was sobbing openly now, tears freely streaming down her face. I could feel my own eyes start to water. This has to be so hard on her. Poor Applejack. The only comfort I can think to give is to wrap my hooves around her.
“I’m sure it’s not your fault, Applejack. It was nothing but an accident. And look, I’m okay. I’m not hurt anymore. You’ve taken really good care of me these past months. You’ve been nothing but the sweetest, kindest, most amazing friend. I couldn’t imagine what it would be like without you.”
And I really couldn’t. Even if we hadn’t been the best of friends before. At least, it didn’t seem that way, hearing the other girls talk. We’d been awful to each other. But no one told me why. Were we really that different? Here she was, this hard working, responsible pony, taking care of her family and friends. She sacrificed so much to provide a better life for everyone else, never thinking of herself. Was I really so blind before? That I couldn’t see how good a friend she could be?
Maybe it was my fault. If I hadn’t been upset over a stupid hat, she never would have had to leave her stall, or climb the hill. And she wouldn’t be in the pain she is now. I can’t stand to see her like this.
“Applejack, please don’t cry. I can’t bear to see you like this. You did nothing wrong.”
I take her muzzle between my hoofs, looking into her emerald green eyes. I can see the pain, and anger, and all the raw emotions swirling inside her. She needs this. All those pent up emotions; holding herself in check so as not to upset those around her. All those times being there for me, when I couldn’t face another day of not knowing who I was.
No more.
No longer will I be the one that has to rely on her. No longer will I be a selfish pony, depending on others to take care of me. Today I will make things right. I will be there for her.
“Applejack, you have done more for me than I ever thought possible. You’ve been a rock for me to lean on in my times of trouble. And for that I thank you. But let me be here for you. Let me be your rock. Let me be the one you lean on. You don’t need to do this alone. I’m here for you. Always.”
She smiled weakly, and turned to look out over the town. I turned and sat next to her, side by side. She sighed and laid her head on my shoulder. And I leaned on her. We sat like that for hours, not saying anything.
It wasn’t until the moon was at its zenith that I felt Applejack start to move. I turned to look at her.
“Let’s go home, Sugarcube.”
****
Several Months Later
“SURPRISE!”
I glanced around the barn, blinking away the glare from the bright lights shining in my face. As I looked around, I noticed decorations everywhere. Streamers of all colors. Pink ones, blue ones; multi-colored ones twisted together. Balloons tied to several benches spread throughout the ground floor of the barn. Confetti was floating down in a cascading waterfall of color, and along the back wall hung a sign that said Happy Birthday Rarity!
“Were you surprised? Were ya? Were ya? Were ya? I totally knew you were gonna be surprised. Applejack said it wouldn’t be a good idea to throw you a surprise party but I said who doesn’t like surprise parties and then I was all we should totally do it at Sugarcube Corner or maybe the library but Twilight said the library was supposed to be quiet and Mr. And Mrs. Cake said-“
“That’s quite enough Pinkie. Thank you. I was pleasantly surprised.” I beamed at the bouncing pink pony before me. I looked at all the other party guests and smiled. There was Applejack, talking with Rainbow Dash. Twilight was trying to get one of those party noise makers working. And Fluttershy looked positively helpless cowering under a table. All of my friends.
Friends. It hadn’t been more than a couple months since our first meeting, but here we were. I couldn’t ask for a better group of ponies to stand by me.
Sure there had been tough times. The nightmares were coming back more frequently than ever. Some days I didn’t even leave the house, not wanting to have any contact with the outside world. Those days were a struggle.
But they’d always been there. Especially Applejack. Every day she was there, pushing me forward, always encouraging me on. Backing me up when I needed it.
I’m smiling. I know I am. I can’t help it. Every time I think of Applejack, it makes me feel warm inside. Like I did after that first nightmare. Or when we talked on top of the hill. Or the many nights she spent calming me down when I would panic. Or the time she traded her stuff to get me that absolutely gorgeous clip. Purple diamond, on a silver clip.
Wait a minute. That was from before the accident. We all went to the Rainbow Falls Trader’s Exchange. I got Applejack that rusty pie tin. I remember! I remember it all! Everything leading up to the accident.
The accident. The crash. Before my world changed. Before I became lost, trapped in my own head.
Applejack and I had argued. But I don’t remember it being about a hat. In fact, I remember it quite clearly and it was most definitely…..
She lied! The Element of Honesty! How could she? To me!
“You!”
I can tell she’s confused by my sudden outburst. Rainbow Dash looks confused as well. I don’t care. This is something that must be done.
“You lied to me, Applejack! To moi! How could you?”
I can see she’s confused, but I don’t care. Who does she think she is, playing me like a fool?
“Beg pardon?”
“You know what I’m talking about! And don’t try to deny it!”
“Sugarcube I-“
“Don’t Sugarcube me, you grand mentuer! We weren’t talking about hats at all before that cart hit me! Were we?”
“You got yer memories back?”
“Don’t change the subject! Did you or did you not lie to me in the park? I thought you cared about me! Or was that a lie too?”
“No! It weren’t a lie! I do care about ya, Rares. I just thought that, you know, after your reaction, that I didn’t stand a chance. You ran away!”
“Sweet Celestia! You really are clueless! You did it all wrong! A lady isn’t going to swoon into the arms of the first paramour to profess their love! She needs to be wooed! Charmed! Swept off her hooves! Poetry read to her by moonlight! Something more than just an impromptu confession behind your stall in the marketplace!”
That should get her attention. The room is silent now. I can feel the tension between us, thicker than wool.
“So whatcha sayin’ is, you didn’t like the way I told ya? Not that yer against the idea, but the way it was presented? That you-“ she gulped-“actually care about me?”
“Applejack. You took care of me when I was at my worst. You were always there, drying my tears; holding me when the nightmares were too scary. Even before, you always looked out for me. Pushing me when I needed, chastising me when I was too stubborn or prideful to listen to what other ponies were saying. When I didn’t know who I was, you never once left my side. So to answer your question, I don’t care about you. I more than care.”
“I love you, Applejack.”
Our lips locked together as I kissed her; our noses touching. Her lips were soft and sweet, like roses dipped in honey. I’d never tasted anything more divine. I could feel myself blushing as we pulled away, breathless.
