> Zap Apples, The Forbidden Fruit
>  by Mochas Dungeon
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Teasing the Flowers
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"C'mon Rainbow Dash, you gotta keep up if ya wanna beat me," Applejack called behind her as she and Rainbow Dash hoof raced through Sweet Apple Acres. Dodging and weaving through trees they kept pace with each other, even though a lack of area knowledge made Rainbow Dash have to hop several times over exposed roots or an errantly placed bushel basket in the path.

"Applejack, no fair!” Rainbow shouted from several lengths behind, “you tied my wings down and it's throwing off my balance. How can I beat you when I can't even keep my balance right?"

"Sugarcube, you're runnin' just fine to me, and I ain't stoppin just cuz you ain't winnin'."

Passing the finish line, Applejack trotted off the path and bucked the air to celebrate as Rainbow Dash was panting at a fast trot trying to pass the finish line with a frown. Catching her breath Rainbow Dash challenged for a rematch. "You only won because I couldn't use my wings for balance, and that's the same as cheating, so you didn't win fairly. I wanna rematch."

Laughing as she pranced over proudly Applejack gloated. "Well looks like you remember as good as you run. It was yer idea to tie yer wings down, not mine.” Rainbow bit the rope and yanked hard, but it didn’t move. She yelped at the sharp pain, though. “You okay?  That looked like it hurt."

The binds were too strong to rip and tight enough to pull small feathers from her wings. "Get this offa me," she grumbled. The feeling of her wings being tied down was uncomfortable as it was but being unable to free them was irritating her.

Applejack untied the knot and Rainbow’s wings flew open, smacking Applejack in the chest and knocking her to the ground. "I'll win the next one, so ya better be ready to eat dust!" Rainbow shouted as she stuck her tongue out and flew away.

"That mare is one sore loser," mused Applejack as she got up and went back home to check on dinner’s progress.





"Eh Sugarcube, it's been a couple days, ya ready for another challenge since I whupped ya at racing?  And don't go spoutin' none of your flying nonsense; we're playin' on an equal field and you know it.  How about tug o' war or hoof wrastlin’?"

Applejack had met Rainbow Dash outside the far end of Sweet Apple Acres where a fence divided their land from nature beyond and she was eager to win.

"Meh, I don't feel like a challenge today, can we just chillax for a while?"

"What? Since when don't you wanna try to beat me?  Did my win hurt that bad?"

"No, I just don’t feel like it today. Maybe we can have a snack and nap."

Applejack trotted and sat down on a grassy knoll and patted the ground, beckoning Rainbow Dash to sit next to her. The grass was warm and soft; the air smelt of apples and sweet flowers, and there was a light breeze that ruffled their manes as they sat in silence for a minute enjoying the afternoon sun on their faces.

"Rainbow, can I ask you something?

"You just did," Rainbow smugly replied.

Applejack sighed. "You know what I mean Rainbow Dash.  My question is, why are you such a hothead lately?"

"What?  I'm not a hothead. I'm the best and everypony should know it."

"Now, that's exactly what I mean.  You spout to everyone you're the best but cha ain't, else I wouldn'ta beat you at that race. Ever since Soarin dumped you, you’ve been down in the dumps and hidin’ it."

Gasping and moving away, Rainbow growled.  "You don't have any right to bring that up, AJ.   You know I dumped him because of, reasons," Rainbow looked at the ground and stomped it before continuing, "and he rebounded onto that filly floozy and it'll end just the way it started.  With him crying over me, not the other way around."

Applejack raised an eyebrow. "Now, you know I didn't mean it like that. Ah just mean you gotta admit defeat someday." Applejack said flatly as she poked Rainbow in the ribs. “Lovers like a mare that’s humble, right?”

Rainbow Dash blushed and looked at the ground. Applejack smirked. "You're turning a mite purple. Oh my, did you and Soarin… ya know?”

"Applejack, that’s none of your business. But yes, okay we did it and it was, okay.  He said it was the best he ever had and all that," she paused.  "He left me, like, every time right after he was done and he always said I was the best he'd ever had, like he got around a lot."

"Well, it's his loss. Now he gets some floozy and we get the great Rainbow Dash.  Yer better off without him."

Rainbow Dash punched Applejack in the foreleg then opened her wings and hovered. "Thanks, maybe you're kinda awesome too. I’ve got a few clouds to move around, but I'll see you later? Come by my house and we'll have dinner, my treat.”

Rainbow didn't wait for a reply as she flapped quickly and took off into the sky, leaving her rainbow trail behind her.

Applejack sighed as she watched the trail dissipate then smiled as she reached and touched the spot she was just punched. She smiled thoughtfully.
> Walk in the clouds
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It was nearing sunset when Applejack arrived, via balloon, to Rainbow Dash's cloud house for a dinner and some girl time. She reluctantly had Twilight cast a cloud walking spell on her so she could go.

As she got out of the basket she tested the sturdiness of the cloud. This just ain't natural, why did I agree to this?  Agree?  I done wished fer this chance fer weeks.  If anything goes wrong I'm gonna hide in a apple tree for a week.  They're gonna have to buck the tree down to get me out… if’n I don't fall to a pancake from here first.

As Applejack adjusted to walking on the clouds, Rainbow Dash opened the door and leaned on the frame, watching as Applejack bounced on the clouds beneath her.

"Hey Applejack, you aren't gonna grow a tree up here from jumping, so let's just get some grub.  I cooked all by myself and I bet I can eat more than you." Rainbow flew into the house leaving the door open.  Applejack raced afterwards taking brief awe at the construction of the house made from compacted clouds.

Running into the dining room Applejack sat down at the table as Rainbow was chewing her first bite.  A salad of mixed vegetables on a single lettuce leaf, a bowl of hot tomato soup, and a cup of mixed fruit juice sat before her as she looked at Rainbow Dash who was chewing quickly. "Fhew awrnt gowna whin loukin aht yhur phood," Rainbow challenged as she picked up the soup and drank straight from the bowl, splattering some as she slammed the bowl down onto the table to take another bite.

   Looking at the food setup in front of her, Applejack felt heart beat a little faster as she thought for a second about how much effort Rainbow must have put into the tasty looking meal. Fresh food made by hoof and a challenge to boot.

Grabbing the lettuce Applejack rolled it around the salad and bit it in half.  Chewing a couple times she drank the soup from the bowl balanced in her other hoof and alternated taking bite and slurp of her meal. Rainbow Dash slowed her chewing as she watched Applejack eat.

Finishing the wrap and downing the last of the soup Applejack sat back and sipped her juice with a smile. "Ahhh, that was a good snack. What else you got, ya gonna serve dinner anytime soon?"  Tipping her hat in respect to Rainbow Dash she gulped the last of her juice and placed the cup upside down on the plate.

Stopping as she looked at her plate there were still a few bites left and she hadn't touched her juice yet. "Phwah Wrelp," stopping to swallow her mouthful in one large gulp, Rainbow continued. "Yeah, well you just eat more than I do cuz you're a hard working earth pony, I'm a Pegasus.  We have to eat smaller and balanced meals more often," she fibbed poking at her last couple bites before she picked up her juice and looked at it.

"Now, what in tarnation does my tribe have to do with anything?  Ah’m just hungry was all, I skipped lunch so I could eat with you, then you make this inta a race too! Can't we just spend time together without ya makin' it a thing."  Applejack asked with frustration in her voice.  Rainbow smiled as she looked into her juice.  Fresh pulp of a half dozen fruits were lumped and coalesced together as she took a drink and looked to Applejack.

"You wanna know a thing that's funny? One of Rarities fancy schmancy getups," Rainbow suggested changing the topic.  "I totally can't believe she wore that one dress she was designing to Pinkie’s party a couple days ago, then got all upset when frosting got on it! I mean it's a Pinkie party, it's gonna be messy."

"And that time she got you to wear that hat ta inspire her that was made of all them bells and whistles," Applejack chuckled.

"Yeah, I remember they jingled a lot the fabric itched like crazy! Then,” she chuckled, “when I took it off you blew one of the whistles and scared that cat of hers!" Rainbow grabbed her side laughing as she remembered the look on Rarities face as Opalescence jumped on her back with her claws out. "She cried for five minutes about her mane being messed up and the cat was still stuck to her side, upside down."

After a few more minutes of talking and laughing, Applejack began cleaning up.

"Thanks for dinner Rainbow Dash, even though I didn't get to taste much of it, the talk was great.” She placed the dishes into the sink and frowned as she noticed the sink was full of dirty dishes but pushed it aside. “So, it's still early, can we relax some?"

"Sure, let's go turn on some music in the living room." Rainbow grabbed Applejack by a foreleg and pulled her out of the room before letting her go and fluttered backwards into the living room.  She landed and trotted backwards to the radio.

Applejack's heart raced for a moment at the offer.  Romantic music after a hoof made dinner, could this be happening?  Her ears fell as Rainbow Dash turned on rock and roll, at high volume.

"Say, Rainbow Dash? Maybe we could turn on something a little quieter?" shouted Applejack over the music. "Let me pick something better!" she shouted as she trotted past the air guitar soloist champion of her house, three years running. Applejack found some music on the radio and Rainbow Dash stopped strumming to look at Applejack.

"AJ, that was the best part,” Rainbow whined. “I was practicing that move all week and now you wanna listen to slow music?"

"Rainbow, how're we gonna talk if I can't even hear m'self think?"

Rainbow thought for a second, "By writing?"  Applejack laughed as she pushed Rainbow Dash to the couch and sat a cushion away.

“Rainbow, Ah can’t read yer writin’ any more than we can read Rarity’s. So, are you lookin' for a date, to get yer mind off’a that ex of yers?  What's your type?"

"AJ, thanks for the offer, but I'm not ready to see any new stallions.  After my last two lovers I haven't had any luck. Honestly can I tell you something, a secret between us?" Rainbow Dash said as she leaned closer and lowered her voice.

"You know you can, and why are you whispering, we're a thousand feet over the town in a cloud."  Rainbow sat up and rubbed her messy mane with her hoof.

"Okay, this is embarrassing, but... I have some things I got from Canterlot that do a better job.  Much better." Rainbow Dash laughed awkwardly as she said the last part and moved her hooves apart to indicate either size or performance; Applejack couldn’t and didn’t want to figure out which. "Sometimes, AJ, I think that maybe I should try mares, I might get more out of it," Rainbow shrugged.

Applejack felt her heart skip a beat and she couldn't think for a moment as Rainbow Dash's words echoed in her mind. "AJ. AJ?  AJ!?" Rainbow Dash called startling Applejack back into reality. "I lost you for a second.  Is it because I said I had some toys? I know it's weird and I shouldn't have 'em, but I think every mare needs some way to release when stallions can't hack it… You’re not thinking I’m weird, are you?”

"Sugarcube, I'm not thinking about that, it's just that...  Well,” she shuffled on the couch and tapped her hooves together, “what you said about trying mares kinda caught me off guard, did you mean it?"

"Uhm, AJ, mare on mare action doesn’t work outside books. And how would that even work?  Mares don't have the parts!" Rainbow Dash chuckled.

Applejack looked down to her legs and noticed her tail was curving around her. "Sugarcube, it works, otherwise they wouldn't do it."

Looking at Rainbow Dash, Applejack smiled and moved closer to Rainbow Dash. Rainbow figured she could use a hug and fluttered to the middle cushion and opened her forelegs, but wasn’t expecting when Applejack moved quicker and pressed her lips to Rainbow’s.

Rainbow Dash was stunned and didn't know what to do.  She pulled back a little but felt Applejack wrapping her forelegs tighter around her back as her soft lips pressed against Rainbow Dash's. It was the longest six seconds of Rainbow Dash's life and when it was over Applejack looked into Rainbow Dash's eyes and didn't see the passion she was hoping for. Instead she saw confusion and possibly fear. "Rainbow Dash, Ah'm so sorry. I couldn't help it.  I-I, don't know what ta say… Ah like you, and..."

Staring at Applejack, Rainbow Dash finally blinked and took in deep breath as she opened her wings, releasing Applejacks grip. Applejack felt her back turn to ice as she looked into Rainbow Dash's face and her heart jumped to her throat.  This was the reaction she was ready for but when she saw it she wasn't prepared for the feeling, "Sugarcube, please forgive me, I-"

Rainbow Dash lunged onto Applejack knocking her to her back and kissed her as she closed her eyes. She felt the warm breath from Applejack against her nose and the moisture of her tongue against her lips.

I can't believe I'm kissing AJ, what am I doing and why does it feel okay? I was always told this was wrong, please don't let it stop. "Mmmhmm."

Applejack wrapped her forelegs around Dash’s neck, pulling her in closer so she could feel their bodies rubbing against each other. Applejack moved her hind leg under Rainbow Dash and moved her knee up making Rainbow Dash jump and squeal as she hovered over Applejack, "Why Rainbow Dash, did I just hear a mouse?"

“Wha-What did you do?  I felt that to my hooves," Rainbow Dash asked with surprise as she landed next to Applejack with an awkward smile. "AJ, I don't know what we're doing and I don't wanna give you the wrong discretion about us."

"Sugarcube, I don't think discretion means what you think it means, but I know who I am and I want this. I can see you want to try, and I guarantee you it's gonna be awesome."

"Really? Awesome?” Rainbow gulped and watched as Applejack sat up and took one of her hair ties out. “I think I'd have to be the judge of that."

"Ah bet you it'd be more awesome than anything you've ever done in your life."  Take the bait, take the bait, take the bait.

Rainbow Dash's breath quickened. "I never back down from a challenge," she shouted as she jumped on Applejack again, kissing her open mouthed this time. "Race you to the room?"

"Sugarcube, we’re takin’ our time with this one." Applejack said as she moved her hind leg back between Dash's legs.  As Applejack raised her knee she felt the heat and moisture Rainbow’s moist mound. Being driven by a more primal force now, Applejack rolled them to the floor and took Dash's face in her hooves pulling her into a tighter kiss.  As Applejack moved to get comfortable on top she moved her legs so they crossed Dash's. Then they lost themselves in the moment.

Rubbing her leg against the base of Dash's tail the cyan mare trembled as she was kissed, her wings opened fully and moved independently as she moaned, opening her mouth enough to let Applejack slide her tongue inside, filling her senses with saliva and the taste mixed berries. "AJ, let's go upstairs to my room," Dash said as she tried to catch her breath and refocus her eyes, "I think I need to feel awesome."
> The start of a long night
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I can't believe I'm going to do this, what is wrong with me?  How can I explain this to anypony if I like mares?  Oh no!  My parents, they'll be so weird to me if I can't have a foal.  What am I thinking about?  Magic can fix that.  Oh my gosh, I'm planning a baby with Applejack and nothing has even happened yet.  Oh my gosh, oh my gosh.  There's my room, it's right there and I can't stop now.  In a few minutes I'm going to do something I only thought about a couple times and those were quick thoughts on lonely nights and not even about my friends.  I mean sure they were-"

"Sugarcube, I have to tell ya, I've only been with another mare and I'm not the best at this," Applejack was right behind Rainbow Dash, she could smell her arousing juices, "But I betcha it's gonna be better than what some stallion can give ya."

Stopping suddenly she felt Applejack bump into her rump. "Dash, we should wait to get to bed before I bump into you, heh. Dash?  Please say something," she asked, nervously and fearful.

Rainbow flew to the top of the stairs and turned to face Applejack. “I can’t do this!” she shouted and jumped into her room and slammed the door then leaned her back against it as she panted heavily. Her heart pounded and she couldn’t think for a moment, until she began to realize what she’d done.

Damn it, what the flock were you doing?  I can't believe I did that. She’s gonna go and tell Pinkie and then no pony in Equestria will let me live this down for the rest of my life, I'll be a laughing stock in Cloudsdale and I can't show my face to my friends ever again. Flocking idiot, you bucked up so hard this time...





Applejack turned and galloped down the stairs, to the balloon, and pulled the release, lowering from the clouds to the ground below. She jumped before it landed and began to steel her expression as she made her way into town without a destination in mind. She didn’t notice until she’d bumped into Twilight in the street.

Twilight helped Applejack to her hooves with an apology.

Applejack wobbled but stood strong after a moment then looked around at the various faces looking at her as she chuckled. "Applejack," Twilight said placing a hoof on Applejack’s back, "you look troubled. Let's go back to the library and talk about it, okay?"

   



"So, this is how I find out about you, huh?  I never thought you would start a relationship with Rainbow Dash," Twilight laughed as she kissed Applejack on the cheek.  The library had never felt more uncomfortable for Applejack in all her years.  The dim lighting that was cast from the lantern upstairs from Twilight’s reading lanterns and one small candle on a reading desk which was almost burnt down to the base.

"Twi, I dunno what happened back there but Rainbow Dash wasn't outta line,” Applejack said looking at the floor in partial shame, “Ah pushed her too fast and got rejected, should’a seen it comin’. Well, Ah did, but I didn’t expect it to hurt so bad.”

"AJ, what you do with your love life isn't in my control.  If it were up to me we'd still be together and I certainly wouldn't have done that to you in the middle the arousal phase," Twilight said absentmindedly, "I guess this is what happens though, I just hope I never go through that," Twilight giggled as Applejack frowned at her.

"Now Sugarcube, ya know I didn't end us because of some petty reason. You're always with a book in your face and- Oh no Sugarplum how's yer nose?" she asked suddenly looking closely at Twilight’s nose which she hadn’t noticed she’d hurt when they collided. It was slightly swollen.

"I'm fine, and don't change the subject. Do you think you want to continue with her, or maybe,” Twilight scuffed the floor with a hoof while she looked to Applejack with an awkward smile on her face, “you can take me back?”

"Ya know you're as cute as ever when you're jealous.  But you and me are over and there ain't nothin that's gonna change that 'cept maybe time.  If I want Rainbow Dash or any other mare in Equestria, it's my choice, and Ah don’t have to include you in it at all."

"Applejack seriously, can you not be that way for once.  Ever since you left I feel like you've been flirting with every mare you can just to spite me.  I know you were upset with my obsession over my books and studies, but I told you my duties to princess Celestia were paramount in my life,"  Twilight lit her horn and called over a scroll and unfurled it.  Listed on it were dozens of books with a sticker of Princess Celestia by most of them and check marks in red by the uncompleted ones. She smiled awkwardly again.

"And I always liked that about you, Twi, but you never gave me the time I needed," Applejack said in her most compassionate and motherly voice as she touched a hoof on her chest and pulled it away. "You knew what you were gettin’ into and even though we did adventurin', you gave me more attention savin' my eggs than when you was tryin to fry ‘am."

"I know,” Twilight sighed, “and I'm not mad at you or Rainbow Dash. I just am jealous, I guess.  You are an adult mare and you can make your own choices.  I'm just not totally over you yet. It's been eighty four days, six hours, and 32 minutes since you walked out that door and out of my love life.  But, you know you were my first... But I want you to be happy, and I know Rainbow Dash enough to know she’s just confused right now. Go back and talk to her, let her know you’re sorry and that you didn’t mean to rush anything.”

Applejack hugged Twilight. “Thanks, my little Grape. Now, I've gotta date to check up on. You know same as me she ain't as tough as she acts.  I bet she's crying and punchin' somethin as we speak," with a peck on Twilight’s cheek, Applejack left the library for the balloon.

"I miss you so much AJ," Twilight whispered as the door shut and the light flickered with the change in airflow.  Twilight got up and with her head hung low she walked back up her stairs and laid upon her bed pushing the books away from her with her legs as she used her magic to fluff her pillow.  Laying her head on it she let her emotions flow as she sobbed silently into her pillow over the recent events.
> Sleep, what's that?
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Walking on clouds was still an unnatural feeling for Applejack as she walked cautiously walked into Rainbow Dash's open door.  Hearing frustrated grumbling, Applejack walked upstairs.  Even the stairs are made o' clouds.  How didn't I notice this last time. Applejack smiled at her thought I remember why now.

The sound of sorrow was still audible as Applejack peeked into the open door. "Sugarcube?  Rainbow Dash?  Are you okay?"

"Go away."

"C'mon Rainbow, just talk to me. Ah can help."

Rainbow gasped and felt her heart beating faster.  Sitting up from her bed she kicked off her covers and glared at Applejack.  Her eyes were red and her pillow was damp and flat from being beaten with frustration. "I can't believe what’s happening! Everypony’s gonna be trying to hit me with apple pies for weeks!"

Applejack snorted a laugh.  "Now, why do you think everypony in Equestria would hit you with apple pies, ya silly filly." Applejack entered the spacious room and started making her way to the bed.

"It's not funny, how can I explain this?  The Wonderbolts won't let me join them and then I'll lose my job clearing the skies over Ponyville and get transferred to Saddle Arabia and you know they don't even get rain, much less more than a dozen clouds a week.  My life is over."

Applejack climbed onto the bed before placing her foreleg around Rainbow Dash. Applejack spoke softly. "Now, Dash, you don’t gotta be so worried.  Trust me  that there are a lotta, and I mean a lotta mares like me in Equestria.  A few dozen here in Ponyville, you know Rose Petal?  How ‘bout Cherry Blossom?  You already know about me.  Ah got a lista more that I know about.  It's not as bad as you think and most of them have told their friends and families."

"But what am I gonna do?  I haven't even done anything and the whole city thinks I'm a fillyfooler.  I just can't-"

“Rainbow, no pony knows what we almost did and ya gotta stop thinkin’ like that.”

“But, I thought you were gonna tell-” A firm kiss on Rainbow Dash's lips stopped her from talking.  As she slowly closed her eyes she felt herself reaching to touch Applejack’s face again. Applejack stopped the kiss to say something.

"And if they already think it, why not try it.  Or are ya chick-"  She was cut off my Rainbow Dash kissing her back again, to her surprise.  Rainbow's wings wrapped around Applejack as she pulled their bodies tightly together and their legs held each other as they fell sideways onto the bed.

Applejack giggled and climbed on top of Rainbow Dash and started kissing her from the nape of her neck down the sides of her body. Her hooves caressing Rainbow Dash's wings from center to the tips, making them shudder as Rainbow Dash moaned softly.

As Applejack began to kiss across Rainbow Dash's belly she stopped and nibbled Rainbow Dash's nipples making her jump at the sudden new feeling. "AJ?! What the hay are you doing?"

"Oh don'cha worry none, just lay back and let Mama teach you."  Softly she began licking her nipples as she went to the other side of Rainbow Dash's body and began kissing down her flank where she stopped to admire her cutie mark.

"AJ? What're you doing?  Did I do something wrong?" Rainbow Dash asked as she looked down to see Applejack smiling at her flank. "Is there something on my cutie mark?"

"There will be soon," Applejack chuckled as she kissed each of the colors in the lightning bolt then licked the cloud as she began kissing her way around to Rainbow Dash's inner thigh.  Rainbow began to close her legs in anticipation of what was going to happen but a couple kisses just above her moistening labia made her legs falls open and curl slightly to her body, exposing her sex fully to the orange mare.

Applejack took the opportunity and kissed her lips softly, the scent was intoxicating and the wetness clung to her lips as she flicked her tongue against Rainbow Dash's sensitive parts.

Rainbow whimpered and, reaching and grabbing her pillow with her right hoof, she reached and stroked Applejack’s mane lightly, which only made Applejack become more passionate in her efforts.

Applejack wrapped her forelegs around Rainbow Dash's hips and massaged them as she thrust her tongue inside of the cyan body, making Rainbow Dash squeal in surprise and delight at the new sensation. Minutes passed as Rainbow Dash began to sweat and moan deeply, her body arching as she felt the first orgasm shuddered through her body.

Never before had she been the object of such efforts and it sent her mind reeling as new sensations began to make themselves known to her throughout her body.

Her tightening hole clenched so tightly it nearly forced Applejacks long tongue out of her body.  With a laugh Applejack sat up and swallowed with an audible gulp as she looked down at the mare she had dreamed of for the past year. Rainbow reached almost instinctively, taking Applejack’s orange foreleg closer to her body, then pressed her soft hoof to her aching, winking blue pussy.

Applejack leaned closer and watched as Rainbow used her polished hoof as a masturbatory aid and while she was admiring the convulsing body, Rainbow finally peaked in the largest orgasm of her life.

A splash of hot, wet fluid flowed from Rainbow’s body and Applejack was ready to lap it up as it poured a cups worth onto her leg and her waiting tongue, as well as the bed spread. Applejack gleefully, like a hungry puppy, tasted it as Rainbow twisted and kicked at the air, her wings too rigid to move her an inch.

Rainbow let out a gasp and shortly after a pained scream as the orgasm spiked through her petite body. The next half minute was pure ecstasy for Rainbow Dash and the most arousing moment outside of estrus that Applejack had ever had.

Catching her breath she looked down her body to Applejack, who was giggling at Rainbow Dash's reaction. "AJ, oh. My. Gosh.  That was more than awesome!” she rolled to her side and shuddered at the happy, tickling feeling that washed through her core for the first time.  “Thank you, I needed that," her face softened, "so... I guess I'll see you tomorrow?"

"Sugarcube, what in tarnation are you talkin’ about?  We only just started."

"But, I thought it was over when one of us did that?" Rainbow asked, innocently.

"What, came?  You think that's the end of it all?  Rainbow Dash, Ah’m surprised and saddened that you think that."

Applejack climbed on top of Rainbow Dash and aligned their most sensitive spots, with expert efficiency and began to grind into her. Pushing her hips down Rainbow Dash offered no resistance as her mound was pushed, rubbed, and pressed against Applejack’s. Her tail aiding in Applejack’s pleasure, without her knowing.

Applejack wrapped her hind legs around Rainbow’s flanks she began to increase her efforts and she leaned in for a kiss.  She was enveloped by Rainbow Dash's wings.  Keeping her rhythm she kissed Rainbow Dash open mouthed and let their tongues dance, the taste of Rainbow's pussy juices still on Applejack’s breath didn’t deter either of them.

Rainbow Dash moaned loudly as her already throbbing clit began to work it's magic again. “Oh yeah, right there. Right bucking there…”

Applejack had been saving her pleasure for so long she wasn't going to last long herself as feeling Rainbow Dash's marehood winking against her own, their juices mixing and flowing between them it was almost like a battle, sent Applejack to an all too quick orgasm herself. She sat up and leaned back.  She didn’t have nearly as large of an orgasm as she’d hoped for, but it was still enough to sate her needs, for the moment.

Applejack fell backwards, her winking clit still massaging Rainbow’s as her own juices flowed and soaked the blankets beneath them. The feeling of heat and wetness covering both mares from the base of their tails to the top of their teats had Applejack laughing exhaustedly.

Untangling her her legs from Rainbow Dash's, she sat up and climbed up Rainbow Dash's body, savoring the scent and sight of a mare basking in afterglow, sweating slightly, panting and whimpering… with a little joyful giggle every couple breaths. Laying next to each other, Applejack sighed with relief as she looked over to Rainbow Dash, then down and up her trembling body. "Whelp, whatcha think of your first time, mare on mare?  Rainbow Dash?  Dashie?  Rainbow Dash?"  Applejack jumped up and looked at her lover with worry then chuckled. Rainbow Dash was fast asleep.

“Well butter my buns, she wins finishing first and another for falling asleep. Everything’s a race with this one. Good thing that wasn’t a bet,” Applejack said as she kissed Rainbow Dash's cheek and laid back down, nuzzling the blue mare softly. She basked in the warmth and happiness she felt in her chest as she fell asleep, holding Rainbow around the barrel.
> The morning after
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The scent of frying hay-bacon, coffee, and oats filled her senses as she rolled over in bed.  Pulling the covers over her head and wrapping her wings around her chest.  It's too early mom, let me sleep another five or ten hours. Rainbow Dash thought.

Sitting up she pushed the covers off her body and looked around at her room in a confused panic. It was just how it was supposed to be, cloud walls and floors, a ceiling fan that always was on low and basic furnishings.  Did last night really happen? She thought as she looked at her blankets and bed. Her made bed. She’d never have woken up in a bad so nicely fitted after a dream of sex, especially.  Then, there was the food she smelled.

Flying downstairs, Rainbow Dash entered the kitchen to see Applejack wearing an apron, Rainbow Dash’s favorite apron that said 'Too awesome to cook', and putting some crispy hay onto a plate with two eggs and some squash warm squash.

"Dashalicious, breakfast is served."

"Dashalicious? Seriously?" Rainbow Dash frowned as she took her seat at her table while Applejack placed a plate in front of her, beside a bowl of hot oats.

"Well, we’re a couple now, so I get to choose your nickname. You can call me Awesome-jack," she said with a giggle as she kissed Rainbow Dash on her cheek. Rainbow didn’t flinch away to both their interest.

"Woah, woah, woah. I am not calling you ‘Awesome-anything’, I'm the awesome one."

"Well, that's not what ya said when ya passed out last night after what I did to ya. I even saw a tear leave your eye when you were sleeping," Applejack teased.

"You did not.  It might have been awesome but I didn't-"

"Awesome, ya say?  Sounds like you agree with me. Now eat yer veggies 'fore they get cold," Applejack said with a warm smile and the confidence she usually had. With a frown, Rainbow Dash furrowed her brow as she took a bite then softened her expression as she bit into the hay bacon. The flavor filled her senses with smoky crispy crunchy hay flavor that made her smile and moan softly, then she took a nibble of the squash and flashed back to the night before and blushed as she gulped. A whimper escaped her as her clit tingled at the memory of the previous night.

"Dashalicious you make the cutest noises."

Snapping back to reality, Rainbow Dash quickly took a few more bites of the food on her plate to satiate her surprising appetite. "Well after what you, we, did...  I'll admit it took a lot out of me.  I haven't really had one like that before, but I-"

“You never? Rainbow Dash, do you even let them colts ride you for yer own pleasure, or just theirs?”

Rainbow licked her lips, a sad expression crossed her features. “I didn’t know it could feel that good, I don’t know if most mares get there or not. Stallions just get there so quick and that leaves me to finish myself after they fall asleep or one of us leaves… and it’s not nearly as good, I guess.” Applejack shook her head as she took her seat and looked at Rainbow Dash.

"Applejack?"

"Awesome-Jack ya mean," she said with a smirk as she chewed her first bite of oats..

"I am not calling you that,” Rainbow frowned, “how are we gonna explain us to everypony? And, well, are you sure you wanna be with me? Twilight's always staying I've got to many branches and that pushes ponies away. Not to mention that I’ve got a reputation to uphold and you’ve got your family."

"Ah say we take it as it comes. Ain’t no reason ta go spillin’ our personal lives to anypony that comes by, just like before. Now, I have an idea quick. C'mon, Sugarcube, I wanna show you somethin' I learned when I was younger," Applejack said as she stood and walked out of the kitchen, a sway in her hips that Rainbow hadn’t noticed before now.

With a gulp Rainbow Dash hesitantly followed Applejack back to the bedroom.





Rainbow winced and pulled back as Applejack’s rear dropped from her efforts and for a moment the petite pegasus was worried she’d done something wrong, or even hurt Applejack during her first act of cunnilingus. The whinney and natural humping motion Applejack was making cleared up that worry quickly.

She fell to her side, panting and gleeful she was able to make Applejack cum and only had to be told what to do a little at the start. Before she knew it Applejack was stuffing her muzzle under Rainbow’s tail. With a startled yelp she moved to get away from the sudden tickle attack she thought she was getting, but then the tongue moving inside her reminded her of where she was and what was happening.

A soft hoof began to run her blue pussy and she lay on her side, curled her rear legs to her body, and let Applejack work her magic.

...

Rainbow Dash was catching her breath and laying on Applejack’s chest, listening to their hearts rapidly beating in succession. Rainbow licked her muzzle and sniffed, the scent and flavor of Applejack was very ‘appley’ to her, that was the only way she could describe it. But the hint of something else was tickling the back of her mind as to what it was.

Flowers? Oats? Fries? Hay burgers?! No… what is that? she wondered to herself as the extra flavor and scent eluded her. Finally she gave up and returned her thoughts to the moment.

“Whew... that was, amazing.  I think, I think I like this a lot more than what stallions can do.  I, have a question, AJ.”
“Ah’m gonna pretend that means Awesome-Jack.  What’s up, sugar plum?”

Rainbow Dash scrunched her nose at the thought of Applejack being more awesome at anything than her. “I was gonna ask if I could know a few other mares like you. Like us. Ones that are in Ponyville,”  Rainbow Dash asked.

“You wanna try them out too?” she teased. “You gotta give me a kiss first.”

Rainbow sat up and looked at Applejack She looked at Applejacks smile and listened to the air huffing into and out of her nose as she looked back at her. “I don’t know, AJ.  I’m not comfortable kissing my best friend.”

Applejack looked over Rainbow Dash with those soft, deep green eyes. “Rainbow Dash, ya don’t hafta think of me as yer best friend anymore.  Ah think we’re going to a place beyond that.  We’re still bearers of the elements of harmony and teammates with the others, but, now it’s something more. More than any other mare’n our group can understand.” Applejack’s eyes darted aside, which Rainbow Dash noticed.

“AJ, what was that?”

“What, Dashalicious?”

“Don’t call me that, what are you hiding?” Rainbow sat up with a sly smirk.

“Sugarcube, can’t we just-”

“No.  What was that look?  Soarin gave me the same look after we had sex, when he had to go to ‘practice’ early.  What’re you hiding?”  Rainbow Dash had her forelegs crossed and was wearing a stern look.

Applejack sighed. ”Well, Twi and me were-”

“You and Twilight Sparkle?! This can not be happening. Did you two do it right after you left last night? Or this morning when I was sleeping? Or are you going to see her when I go to work?" Rainbow turned away, wrapping her wings around her body, "Get out AJ!  You’re not going to use me like everypony else. I won’t let you.”

Applejack wrapped her forelegs around Rainbow Dash. Rainbow Dash was softly crying as she tried to get out of Applejacks grasp.

“Dash! Dash. Rainbow Dash,” Applejack said softly, controlling herself, “I don’t love her, I love you.” Rainbow Dash stopped struggling suddenly.

No pony has ever said those words to me.  Except my parents, of course.

“What?” Rainbow Dash turned and craned her neck to look at Applejack.

“Rainbow Dash.  I love you, and Ah have for a very long time. Ah was gonna tell you about me and Twi later, when we were more solid in our relationship. Yes, we hooked up for a while but, you know her; it’s always ‘study’ this ‘test’ that and ‘Celestia.’  You don’t know how bad it is when you’re goin’ at it and somepony calls out the name of a Princess just cuz she forgot to dot a ‘j’ in a report,” Applejack was scowling at the memory, “then up and leaves ya high’n dry to go over papers.

“And when you plan something special for a week and tell her all about it, then she doesn’t show cuz she was makin’ a checklist of what to do next time she’s in bed. Listing moves and positions that work best for her in numbered order that, if I didn’t follow, we’d have to start over or go over the bucking list to see if we could work it in later.

“Six months, Dash.  Six months and we made love twenty two times. She kept a log of them, Ah found out. She has notes and logbooks on our entire relationship hid in the basement of the library, in that sciency room. She won’t show me where cuz she knows I’d burn ‘em soon as read ‘em."

Rainbow was about to make a joke but the look on Applejack's face said that was the wrong thing to do.

“Sugar, I only wanted you for so long, at the least to hold you in a hug that lasted more than a few seconds and without another friend there too. You’re the perfect mare fer me; you’re strong, funny, energetic, and you love a challenge.” Applejack ran her hoof through Rainbow’s mane as she spoke and never broke eye contact. “Yer beautiful and kind, you represent loyalty and, well, what’s loyalty without honesty?”

“AJ, I, I don’t know what to say.  That’s the most awesome thing I’ve ever heard anypony say in the history of Equestria.” she paused to savor the feeling of her mane being brushed with a hoof. “I’m not ready to say that I love you. You understand right?”  Applejack nodded and sighed.“But I do love your friendship! I love your challenges and your strength. I love how you’re awesome, even when you don’t try to be.” Leaning in, Rainbow Dash kissed Applejack on her nose then looked at the window. “AJ, it’s a beautiful day; let’s go race somewhere.”

“Oh, Ah don’t know. I’m kinda sore,” Applejack said as she grabbed the sheets behind her covertly, “and I don’t know if it’s a good idea for-” Applejack threw the sheet over Rainbow Dash and held her down as she tied the ends together shouting a hearty ‘yee-haw.’

“Race you to the balloon!”

“No fair! I, can’t, move!”

Shouting from the stairs Applejack gloated. “No excuses, sleepy head, first to the ground in the balloon wins.” The front door slammed and Rainbow’s ears perked. Her heart raced and she grinned.

Fighting her best to get free Rainbow Dash shouted in frustration as she opened her wings and threw open the sheet, freeing herself. She quickly flew to the front door and upon opening the door she flew into Applejack’s open forelegs with a heavy ‘oof’. They fell onto the clouds which puffed and absorbed the force of their fall.

Applejack pulled Rainbow Dash into a passionate kiss before the blue mare could stop flapping her wings. Her ruby red eyes locked onto Applejack’s deep green eyes as she fell into the sensation and feeling of kissing as the clouds wafted over them they closed their eyes.

I love you too, Applejack. I’ll say it someday out loud to you. I Pinkie promise.
> What to say, what to do?
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

How did this happen? Rainbow Dash thought as she laid in the clouds, wrapped in Applejacks forelegs as they both tried to catch their breaths after making out just outside the door to Rainbow Dash's home.  It took me one day to fall in love with my best friend.

How can I have more feelings for this mare next to me than any of the stallions I’ve been with?
Is it because I know her so well and we've already been through so much, or am I just lonely? I love the way she holds me, it’s so warm and perfect, like we were meant to cuddle. Sheesh, it's like she's putting all her weight on me.

"AJ, can you loosen up, you're squeezing a bit tight. I know I'm a great and all, but you don't have to hug the life outta me."

"Dashalicious-"

Rainbow Dash sat up ready to defend her name again as Applejack's grip tightened and she fell to Rainbows hips. "AJ? What's wrong? What's happening to you?"

"Twilight’s spell.  It's gone, Ah’m falling into the clouds!  Please, help me! Ah can't go out like this, not right now," Applejack said with fear growing on her face as she locked her fetlocks together and shut her eyes. Rainbow could feel the mare trembling as tears began to prickle the corners of her eyes. Rainbow looked down at her lover and smiled.

"AJ, it's okay.  I have you, and I won't ever let you fall. You're too important to me," Applejack tried to open her eyes but feeling the pull of gravity made her tremble more as she held on and let out a quiet whimper. "C'mon, I'll get you to the balloon. Flock you're heavy when you're not laying down," she joked as she pulled herself up and began trudging to the balloon. "Ya know, you just don't appreciate how awesome it is to walk on clouds until your marefriend is holding onto your body for dear life."

Applejack tightened her grip around Rainbow Dash's middle, making her cough from the pressure. "Ya know, Sugarcube. If I fall ahm takin' you with me."

"How? I can't fall through the clouds,” she mused.

"Cuz, I have your heart."

Rainbow Dash stopped trudging and stared into the space ahead of her. The balloon looked like it was getting farther away as she thought about the words she just heard, "Uh, Sugarcube?  Why'd we stop? Everything okay? How 'bout we race to the balloon, first one there wins."

Rainbow Dash shook her head and felt her heart beating heavily as she placed a hoof on her chest and breathed in deeply.  She's right, damn it she's right. She has my heart. Rainbow Dash began trudging again, a little faster.  If she's wants a race it's on.

Getting to the balloon, Applejack grabbed onto the basket and climbed in with a muffled thump. She got to her hooves and looked at Rainbow Dash. "You win this time Sugarplum.  Thanks for, ya know, savin' my life. Ah’m going to the ground now, Ah can't stay up here another minute or Ah'll have a heart attack." With a last kiss they parted ways and Rainbow watched the balloon descend.

There might go the mare of my dreams.  Rainbow Dash's eyes widened.  Oh my gosh, what am I thinking? It's only been a day!  Shaking her head she opened her wings and took to the sky to start her day of weather maintenance with a few tricks and a well deserved nap.





Landing the balloon, Applejack hopped out and kissed the ground repeatedly. "Oh sweet Celestia, Ah’m never leavin' you again. I missed you. Ah can't believe I left you.  Please forgive me."

"Well why would I be mad at you?” Pinkie said with a grin as she bounced on her tail. “You didn't leave me cuz I wasn't even here when you left. I was getting ready for bed." Applejack stopped hugging the small pile of dirt she was forming and sat up.

"Pinkie, how long ya been sittin' there?"

"Oh I dunno, maybe an hour or so? Why? Did you miss me that much? Awww, thanks, AJ!"  Pinkie said as she lunged a hug onto her friend.  "Oh, I'm sorry, I guess Dashie will get mad if I hug you without permission now?" Pinkie released her grip and moved a pace back, still smiling and bouncing on a rubber ball.

Applejack was flustered. "Now, why'd you go and say that Pinkie?"

"Because you spent the night with Dashie. I remember you doing that with Twilight but you never stayed all night. Plus," Pinkie added, “you smell like her naughty places.”

Applejack blushed fiercely and stammered, finally relenting to the mystery of Pinkie Pie. "Now, don't fret about me and Dash, okay? What we did or do isn’t anypony’s business."

"But-"

"No ‘but’s’ Pinkie. This isn't your thing to talk about."  Applejack was stern but kind in her words. Pinkie nodded fervently in agreement.

"Okie dokie lokie. What happens in the clouds, stays in the clouds! I guess I'll just go back and visit some friends. I have a couple parties to plan and a cutecinera, too! Later, AJ."  With that Pinkie jumped towards Applejack and vanished once she was out of the mare’s line of sight.





Applejack got back to Sweet Apple Acres to her brother Big Mac standing at the gates with a scowl on his strong face.

"Upset I was out late?"

"Yup"

"Wanna know where I was?"

"Yup"

"Out with a friend."

He squinted at Applejack.

“Time to get to work, the chores aren’t gonna do themselves, now."

"Eeyup," he said as he turned and walked back to the barn.

That stallion is such a blabbermouth.


Applejack followed him into the barn where Granny Smith was sitting in her rocking chair with her forelegs crossed. Applejack knew Big Mac was a might upset, but to see Granny sitting in the barn like that meant she could be in deep trouble.  "Heya, Granny, you're up early.  I'm just gonna get my baskets and-"

"Doncha give me that. Ya worried me halfway to the next life. Goin' out as Luna raised the moon and then not comin’ home til now."

"Now Granny-"

"Ah ain't done yet, now sit, young filly." Applejack sat where she was with a straight back and her eyes locked on Granny Smith. "Now, I don't care if she's one of them filly lovers or, whatever ya call 'em these days, and believe me I done had a thing in my younger days," Big Mac coughed in surprise at her admission. "Oh, that surprise you Big Macintosh? A lot happens in a pony’s life an the sooner you experience somethin' new, the better.

“Now where was I?  Oh yeah,” she mumbled, “Ah don't care if she's one of them, but I'm tellin' ya that I wanna know where ya are ‘fore ya give me a conniption and I pass on!"

"Granny don't talk like that, you're gonna-"

"Stop interruptin' me, dagnabbit. Now, I love you Applejack like you were my own daughter, Celestia rest her spirit with Bright Mac. But, I wanna see you honestly happy."

"Darn it, Granny," Applejack stood up and gave Granny a defiant look, "if Ah wanna be with anypony, mare or not, then I will be happy as long as they’re the right one. Ain't nopony gonna tell me otherwise cuz Ah know who Ah am. I may give you a great-grandfoal, like ya want, but I most likely ain't gonna be doin' it the traditional way."

"Dangit, Applejack, you ain't listening to me, are ya? I want ya to be happy."

"Dangit Granny I am happy. Ah fell in love with Rainbow Dash a long time ago and after last night, Ah've never been happier in all my life." Applejack's eyes opened wide as she shouted at her Granny Smith and admitted her secret at the same time.

"Woah!" A crash came from outside the side window as Applebloom's Bow was partly visible through the window.

"Oh, dagnabbit, now that little filly's prob'ly hurt peekin' on us. Big Mac, go check she didn't cut herself standin' on that barrel. Plus, we gotta talk,” Granny looked at Applejack, “mare to mare."

Applejack gulped loudly.

"Eeyup," Big Mac stated and cantered out of the barn and around the corner.

"Now, Granny-"

"My turn to talk, young'n. Ah said I wanted you to be happy, I never said how.  Now, if'n ya wanna be with another mare, I'd probably choose one better than that dang hothead, Rainbow Whatshername, cuz I can see her foolin' on ya in a heartbeat, and I don’t want her ta leave you in the dust.

“But, yer young and you gotta live. Ah love ya, Applejack, and always will. And, if ya gotta use that unicorn magic to give me a great-granfoal, then so be it. Just be happy for your parents and me."

Applejack felt her eyes starting to water as she mentally processed the acceptance her Granny had to offer. "Granny, I-"
"Now c'mere and give me a hug, 'fore ya get to workin' the farm."

Applejack ran into Grannies forelegs and knocked the chair over, cracking the wood and squeezing her Applejack began beam with pride. "Thank you, Granny, thank you so much.  You're the best and Ah love you."

"Ah love you too, Applejack. Now, get to work 'fore I have ta show ya how it's done."

"I will Granny, soon as ya let me go."

"You let go first."

"Ah think Ah’m okay for right now... and sorry bout your chair."

"It's okay Applejack, it was a piece of junk anyway.  I was waitin' for it to break so I could get a new one." They both shared a laugh and kept hugging for another minute before Big Mac’s hooffalls announced his presence.

"Yeah, time to get to work. Thanks again, Granny." Applejack got off Granny Smith and looked at her brother, and Applebloom, who was standing behind Big Mac, looking at her.  "So, I guess y'all heard?" Applejack asked.

"Eeyup."

"Yeah, but, Ah don't get it. Applejack, yer the strongest mare in Ponyville an’ ya got a dozen stallions knockin' at the door ev'ry month. Ya go on dates all the time... and now ah find out yer inta fillies? Why'd ya hafta go choose that?"

Walking over to Apple Bloom, Big Mag moved aside to let them talk. Applejack sat on her rump and looked at Applebloom. "Sugarcube, Ah didn't choose to love mares. It's how Ah was born and how Ah’ve felt since I was yer age. Rainbow Dash is a very good friend and Ah love her as a friend first, but somethin' else entirely second. But, no matter what, Ah love my family still and Ah'd love to have your understanding, at least."

"But, why'd you have all them dates with those stallions if ya weren't gonna do nothin'? How ya gonna give me a little niece if ya don't have a stallion plow yer fields?  Applejack looked at the filly with shock and Granny gasped from behind at the language.

"Applebloom! Who told you about all that stuff?"

"Ahm in the third grade, not preschool. It came up once with Miss Cheerilee and Big Mac, a bit after we gave 'em the love poison."

Big Mac coughed loudly and shook his head at Applebloom. "Ah guess Ah’m not supposed to talk about the details, but... we learnt a lot about sex that day."

Applejack glared at Big Mac as he shied away, backing into a wall. "Now Applebloom, Ah went all them dates cuz I was expected to, and it was kinda fun at times. Some of them were really good and nice ponies, but I couldn't love them, and believe me I tried."

"Even with Eagle Eye? You two were so close, Ah thought you'd get hitched in no time."

"Well," Applejack glared at Big Mac again, "we tried to spend time together, but it didn't work out, what with my chores and his evening job. We still talk and're neighborly, but that's the best Ah’m ever gonna get with a stallion in this world."

Thinking for what felt like a minute as everyone listened in silence for Applebloom to speak when she finally took in a deep breath."No."

Applejack cocked her head to the side with a soft smile. "No what, hun?"

"I. Said. NO,” the filly screamed. “Ah don't understand and Ah don't know if Ah will, but I wanna little niece’r nephew and you can't do that with another mare, that much Ah do know. Ah don't understand and Ah'll never forgive Rainbow Dash, ever!"

She turned and started crying as she ran for the house. Applejack stood to chase after her little sister as she felt her heart breaking but stopped after a few paces as the filly crested a hill and disappeared in the orchard.

"She's gonna be okay, right, Big Mac?"

"Ah’m sure of it."

"Granny, will you help her? Ah don't think she wants to see me right now and she needs somepony."

"Yeah, doncha worry none. Now, Big Mac can handle yer chores while Ah get some of her favorite snacks together.She’ll come back when she’s ready’n Ah’ll be here ta listen."

"Big Mac, you and me're gonna have some words later about what Apple Bloom was talkin' 'bout," Applejack said as she walked past Big Mac and into the orchard to think while she worked.

Dangit, I just didn't think it'd go this way so fast. Not even with Rainbow Dash. Apple Bloom is hurtin' and it’s all my fault, Granny and Big Mac are okay with my personal life. Maybe Granny's right and she'll fool around on me first chance. This is Rainbow Dash we’re talkin’ about. But on the other hoof, maybe Ah'll be with her forever and we’ll always be happy. Ya just can't tell with that one. That's why I fell for her, cuz she ain't like everypony else.  She laughed to herself.  'Branches,' Ah know she meant ‘brashness,’ but this time Ah let her have it.

Applejack smiled for a moment as she sat down and took in a deep breath, listening to the leaves in the trees rustle from the passing breeze her mind cleared. This is the life I always wanted, so why aren't I as happy as I thought I’d be?





Rainbow Dash had her goggles on as she flew as quick as she could to her starting area. She landed on a darker cloud and got to her starting position before dashing off leaving a rainbow contrail behind her and busting the cloud, dumping it’s water all at once to the grassy knoll below itself.

She grinned daringly as the air whistled through her ears as she reached the second area.  Being a Weather Maintenance Manager meant she had to start first and do more than other ponies, but it also meant she did her own scheduling and made sure to include nap times and an early start to have an early day, which worked especially well in a small hamlet as Ponyville.

Pushing two cumulus clouds into each other then moving them over town was her first task and she quickly did that, offering shade to a garden that was being tended to. She then turned to her tasks of cloud movement and dispersal.  While bucking into a few clouds she noticed three Pegasus flying up to her as she worked and she thought about pretending to sleep on one of the clouds for a second.

"Hey, Rainbow Dash, I heard you and Soarin broke up,” Buttercup snarked, “that's a shame. Is he looking for a new mare?"

"I don't know or care. Now get lost, I've got a lot of clouds to bust and you're in my way."

"Well, I was just asking because we bet you’re a fillyfooler."  The three pegasus mares laughed as they hovered in place. “That’s why you can’t keep a coltfriend, isn’t it,” they tittered and laughed until Rainbow Dash punched one of them in the muzzle before front flipping and slapping her over the head with her tail, making her spiral almost 100 feet down before she recovered and flew the rest of the way to the ground.

"You wanna start bucking with me and I'll show you some moves you've never seen.  Now get lost."

One of the other two remaining giggled as she floated backwards. "I bet you'd love to show us some new moves,” she managed to get out before coughing from a rear hoof in her belly faster than she could react. The mare held her belly and tried to keep her wings flapping as she quickly, awkwardly, descended the the ground. The last pegasus smiled awkwardly. “I’m just a follower, I’m leaving now.” The mare dove after her friends while Rainbow huffed in frustration.

And stay gone. Of all the times to be teased about being a fillyfooler, if only they knew.

Rainbow Dash finished her work as quickly as she could before flying to Sweet Apple Acres and landing at the barn. Looking around she didn't see anypony so she flew to the house to ask where Applejack might be.  Walking in she saw Granny with a foreleg around a sobbing Applebloom at the table. "Hey, uh. I'm looking for Applejack."

Apple Bloom’s head snapped up and she sneered just before she threw a plate of cookies that was in front of her at Rainbow Dash, missing her completely. " Ah hate you! You stole my niece from me you bucking preener!" Granny slapped Applebloom on the back of her head in a heartbeat.

Apple Bloom gasped, her hooves moved to where she’d been struck with a shocked look at her grandmother because the rare strike while she was scolded.

"Applebloom! You ain't allowed to use language like that,” she started with a look that sent chills through Big Mac and the filly, “we don't take kindly to race hatin' in this house! Where’d ya learn that hogwash, anyhow?! Big Mac,” Granny snapped to the large stallion making his ears fall and to take a reflexive step back, “get the soap bar."

Apple Bloom's eyes filled with tears as she tried to explain, but Granny ignored her. With a look that only an angry parent could give she silenced the filly then gave her attention to Rainbow Dash. "You're a grown mare, just like my Applejack, and I hope you have a heart as good as hers too. She's in the orchard somewhere, thinkin'.  Ah'm sure she'd appreciate a visit from her special somepony," she winked slightly.

"You, you know?" Rainbow Dash blushed and looked at the floor she was scratching at.

"Darlin’, we've thought for a while about Applejack’s ways, but didn't really know until she told us she loved you. You make her happy, Rainbow Dash. Go git her, and if you hurt her Nightmare Moon will seem like a scratch compared to what we’ll do to ya," Granny Smith said with a kind smile.

Rainbow Dash took a step back as she looked into Granny Smith's face.  She means it. Luna’s glorious anus, what am I getting into? Opening her wings she hovered. “Yes, ma’am,” Rainbow nodded and flew to the orchard.

There she is, Rainbow turned and flew to the orange dot below her that contrasted very well against the green trees and grass. Landing right behind Applejack she stood in place, thinking of what to say or do.

"Heya, Dashing, what's on yer mind?"  Applejack asked without turning around. Rainbow Dash didn't know what to say. "Well, Ah guess it’s about us."

"Oh, well, I thought we'd have a talk about that."

"Ah want you to be happy, Dashing, and Ah hope you want the same for me."

"Of course I do, AJ. I wanted to talk to you about that."

Rainbow trotted around Applejack to look at her and saw a nervous mare with a troubled look. "Rainbow, I've had a long two hours and Ah gotta tell you what happened." Applejack brought Dash up to speed about her day so far. "So, that's what going on. How's your day been?  I see you did the clouds as fast as a whip. All Ah saw was your trail in the sky. Tickled my heart like always," she said as she looked into the orchard.

"Yeah I had to get away from some jerks," taking a few short sentences, she filled Applejack in on her day so far.

"So, sounds like we both're havin' a mighty fine day,” she rolled her eyes, “and it ain't even lunch yet. Ah think Ah know what's wrong with me, at least right now. I don't feel happy cuz Ah wasn't honest sooner with you and my family. I feel like Ah rushed into a relationship and you weren't ready. Almost like I took advantage of you the first chance Ah got. Rainbow Dash, did Ah rush, us? Are you uncomfortable or unhappy with what Ah did?"

Rainbow stood next to Applejack and smirked, looking into her emerald green eyes.  "No,” she said softly, “I needed it more than I knew. I was never a fast thinker, just a doer, and when you started to kiss me, I went with it because it was something new, different, and a challenge,” she looked around to make sure she wasn’t being heard by anypony else. “ I thought of our night most of the day so far, and what you did to me, and how great it was,” she giggled, “and what I learned to do to do.

“Then I thought of how Soarin and Double Shot were when they used me for my body… they left me in a flap and I realized that I've known you for a way longer time and you won't just leave me. You’re, like, making me sappy,” she frowned at herself but kept on, not noticing the shimmer in Applejack’s eyes, “you're the best mare I've ever met and I know we'll always be friends. But,” she paused for effect, “I want more than that with you,” she looked at Applejack with a soft smile. “I want to try everything a real relationship has to offer,” her voice cracked, “and I want that with you. I mean sure, you may not be that fast and you can't fly or walk on clouds or control the weather or always smell that good and you have really bad hooves that scratch a lot.  And I mean a lot," she grinned to Applejack, "but, I really like all that about you." Rainbow said putting a foreleg around Applejack and pulling her into a hug, using a wing to pet her yellow mane. "And I think I can love that about you too.

“Oh, Dash…”

“But, I think we should go on a real date first and see how we feel. That this can be more than just sex. And one last thing; next time we make love we have to have a place down here, because I don't want Twi to have to cast a spell on you every time knowing exactly why."

"Yeah, Ah can see that going bad fast,” Applejack broke the hug and turned until she was sided with Rainbow Dash, the pegasus’ petite size put her obviously shorter than Applejack. “I think a roll in the straw in the barn would be safest bet," Applejack giggled.

Rainbow Dash draped a wing around Applejack. "Why wait?"

They shared a giggle and held each other until Granny sounded the lunch bell. "Huh? My, how time flies when I’m with you, Dashing. It’s time for chow, ya hungry?"

"Yeah, I can eat a whole Apple," she elbowed Applejack in the foreleg with a wink.

Applejack gave Rainbow a sardonic look, but broke it to smile. "Seriously Dashalicious, that one was pretty bad."

"Don't call me that," she leaned up slightly to nuzzle Applejack, “or I’ll call you applejunk.

They laughed. “Ain’t heard that one before, but I think it’s a fair trade, cuz Ah got some junk in my trunk, I’ve been told.”

Rainbow gasped and tried to look back to Applejack’s rump and was tossed to the ground as Applejack took to a gallop back towards the farmhouse. “Distracted ya!”

Rainbow took to the air and started to chase after Applejack, her eyes looking at the taut muscles moving under Applejack’s orange coat and a warmth crossed her at the thought of strong legs wrapping around her.
> Coming to terms
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Applejack and Rainbow Dash were lying in Applejack's bed, bellies full and talking about how lunch was as Apple Bloom knocked on the door.


"C'mon in," Applejack said.



Opening the door slowly, Apple Bloom walked in with her head down and sat just inside the threshold. "Applejack, Ah wanted ta say Ah'm sorry for how Ah acted earlier. And the same goes to her," she pointed a foreleg at Rainbow while glaring briefly, "Ah guess,” she lowered her leg.



“Yer my sister and I do love ya, and Granny had a talk with me all mornin' ‘bout how I didn't have ta approve of who ya loved, but I still had to apologize and someday Ah'd understand, or somethin'. Also this is our family talk and not for Ponyville. Ah had to promise ta keep it from everypony else, so Ah'm gonna. But Ah don't have ta like her for any part of this."



"Sugarcube, it's okay. Ah love you and, in time, Ah know you'll understand and accept me, us, for what we have," Applejack said as she took Rainbow Dash's hoof in hers. Rainbow Dash blushed and couldn't find the words to say so she nodded slightly, glancing at Applejack.



With a final glare at, Rainbow Dash, Apple Bloom left and shut the door quietly. "Sugarplum, I think it's time we took a few minutes to really relax. Ah'm gonna try and nap, and I'd love if you'd stay with me," Applejack said as she turned on the bed then again to align herself to the side closest to the window.



Rainbow Dash laid next to her and the lay on her back. Applejack turned and laid her head on Rainbow Dash's chest and began to rub the cyan fur in front of her face with her hoof. This worked this morning after breakfast why isn't she reactin' the same. Maybe Ah'm doin' it wrong.



Hearing a quiet snore followed by a light knicker, Applejack sighed and rested her foreleg across Rainbow Dash's abdomen and relaxed. Well that killed the mood quick. Might as well get some sleep too. Never waste a good opportunity to rest on a day off.







A knock at the door stirred Rainbow, who was laying on her stomach now, wings splayed out over Applejack as an impromptu blanket while she slept. "Hmm, oh. Huh? What's goin' on?" Applejack said as she opened her eyes. Three more soft knocks tapped the door. "Who's it?" she shouted groggily as a yawn groaned from her.



"Time fer dinner, sis. Ah wanted to talk to you over dinner since that preener isn't here and Ah can open up," Apple Bloom said through the closed door.



Jumping out of bed, Applejack galloped around the bed and to the door, pulling it open then pointing at Rainbow Dash, who was laying on the bed looking surprised and hurt at the unfolding scene. "That pegasus is my marefriend and she's still here, and stayin' fer dinner! Now git, and I'm tellin' Granny bout what you said." Apple Bloom looked terrified and embarrassed as she stumbled back at her sister's shouting. Turning Apple Bloom bolted from the doorway.



"And Ah’m gonna find out where ya learned them words and fix it right up,” she shouted at the filly that was scampering down the stairs. “That dang filly’s gonna eat soap for dessert if Ah get a say."



Rainbow sighed and shook her head before a smile crossed her lips. "Applejack, I like your style. C'mare and help me up," she winked.



Applejack's face went deadpan. "I just don’t get it, Dashalicious."



"I said stop calling me ‘Dashalicious’," Rainbow replied curtly, sticking her tongue out.



"Fair enough. Keep on jokin' and we'll see who's gonna win. Let's go eat, then Ah guess since I missed chores we can catch up tonight," Applejack winked. “Just kiddin’, everypony needs ta relax.”



Getting up and taking to the air Rainbow nodded. “Chillax,” was all she said before following Applejack. She was going out the door when Rainbow commented happily. "You know, we ate lunch then fell asleep 'til dinner. It's like we're eating twice in a row! I can get used to this country life."



"Yeah, well, that ain't all there is to this country life. Ah got chores and work ta do six days a week, and even my day off isn't a day off; always something going on," she mumbled. "Dashing, Ah'm gonna hit the little fillies room before I eat."



"I gotta go too," Rainbow said flying over Applejack.



"Well, it's my house," she stated stopping at the doorway to the bathroom.



"Well, I'm the guest so I have priority," Rainbow smirked while crossing her forelegs.



"That doesn't count cause you were here all day," Applejack challenged.



Rainbow smiled. "It'd be might neighborly for you to let me go first."



Applejack gritted her teeth and stepped aside. "Ya have a good one, friend," she emphasised with a stern look.



"I will. Don't wait up," Dash smugly said as she floated in and shut the door.



Ooo. That mare is gonna drive me batty before we get to our date. Wow, we haven't had a date yet and we're quarrelin' like a couple’a hens over seeds. Smiling, she returned to her room to tighten the sheets and blankets. The door to the bathroom opened and the sound of Rainbow flapping quietly made her ears turn.



"Where the hay did she go? I hope she didn't go all the way to that stinky outhouse that Granny uses."



Applejack hummed a tune quietly after making the bed. She turned to the mirror on her dresser and pulled her hat on her head. She acted as though she were alone while Rainbow landed and quietly stood at the door and peeked in to watch.



Applejack spent the next few seconds adjusting her hat before swaying her tail and bouncing her rump while her tempo increased until she was practically singing a country song about whittling away the day. Rainbow's eyes were stuck on the bouncing rump and soft coat of her best friend turned lover. She gulped loudly.

"Ah hope ya don't mind if I go now," Applejack said, quickly turning to face Rainbow. The mare’s eyes were as wide as they could be, her mouth slightly agape. Nodding slightly she moved back and nudged the door open with a wing. She watched as Applejack walked past and, with her tail, closed Rainbow's mouth. "Ya don't want a fly ta get in, do ya?" she said softly as she passed Rainbow.







"Hoo-wee. I'm so hungry I could eat a barrel full o' grains," Applejack shouted as she entered the dining room. Apple Bloom, Granny Smith, Big Mac, and Rainbow Dash were sitting around the table with a spot next to Apple Bloom for Applejack. Apple Bloom stopped glaring at Rainbow Dash and smiled at her sister, beckoning her to take her seat by urgently patting the floor. "Ah'm comin', quit chompin’ at the bit," Applejack stated as she made her way around the table and sat on the floor beside her little sister.

Taking her seat she looked at Rainbow Dash, who was staring at her plate -seemingly deep in thought. Ah wonder how Rainbow Dash is holdin' up? She looks like she's thinkin' hard on somethin'. Must be Apple Bloom and her racist words. That little fillies gonna get it if she's misbehavin' again. Ah swear, Ah never thought my little sis would use such hurtful language.

I wonder what's for dinner, as much as I love apples I hope it's something not apple related. Unless it’s Applejack, that’s a flavor I can taste again. she smirked to herself. And what a wasted day. I could’a been exercising and all I did was nap with AJ. Well, I guess it wasn’t all wasted. She looked up to Applejack and their eyes locked.


Apple Bloom frowned at the exchange while Big Mac sat stoically. Applejack noticed the expression on the filly’s face and had had enough.



"Granny,” Applejack started, “Apple Bloom went’n said-" she leaned in to whisper to Granny Smith's good ear. Granny glared at Apple Bloom and shook her head slightly. Apple Bloom sank as she felt the skilled eyes of her grandmother burning into her. With a motion of Granny's head Apple Bloom got up and walked out of the room sniffling.



"That little fillies gonna have soap fer dessert at this rate,” Granny huffed, “now let's quick gabbin' away and eat, put this nonsense behind us." Granny grabbed for an ear of corn with one hoof and reached to grab some bread with the other.



"Granny!" Applejack shouted, stopping the elder mare midreach. "We gonna pay respects, or just chow?" Granny smiled while retracting her foreleg then put her hooves together as the others did the same. Rainbow Dash looked at Applejack inquisitively. "Just play along, Dashing."



Putting her hooves together she looked at Applejack and smiled.



Granny spoke the prayer. "Ancestors who gave us our lives and everything we have. Ancestors who taught us how to live from the land. Ancestors who live below us in the ground and help our trees grow. We thank, respect, and love you."



“And cherish you.” Big Mac and Applejack said in unison.



Rainbow Dash looked around the table as the Apple family, minus one, began grabbing food and passing fresh apple juice in a carafe around the table. Applejack made sure to fill Apple Bloom's plate with a variety of food. "So, um, what was that just now? Was that a prayer? I didn't know you had religion here," Rainbow Dash asked openly.



"Oh well, it ain't so much one of those popular ones; like where they say Celestia is the one true Goddess,” she snickered, “or that there's a higher horse in the sky that makes everything happen. Those ponies are kinda crazy ta begin with, and now that Luna's back everything they know is all topsy-turvy. We believe in payin' our respects to our ancestors though, cause we know they're real and we thank 'em for all we have and taught us."



Applejack finished her little sermon as Big Mac and granny ate silently; listening and smiling.



Apple Bloom was walking into the room as Applejack was finishing when Granny spoke up

.

"When we founded Ponyville, there was seventeen of us in our caravan. We picked us up a few extras when we left Canterlot, ya know. Anywho, when we went’n settled and built our first few houses, food was scarce and I went to pick them zap apples, ya know the story. But, what ya don't know is my sister, Ambrosia, was in love with another settler. Her name was Morning Seed, and she was a pretty filly if ever ya saw one. Not one of us knew about them til about five years after we had started the Ponyville the history books paid attention to.



"Now, keep on eatin' or yer gonna get cold food while I tell my stories. Apple Bloom, ya get yer medicine?" Apple Bloom nodded with a sniffle as she wiped her mouth and tongue with a napkin. "Okay then, eat up. Now, where were I? Uhm, auh. Then, seeds. Ah! Oh yeah. So, Ponyville had a few houses and shops and a train comin' and goin' all regular with ponies from all over the area stoppin' by. Some as far away as Manehattan, just to get some of our zap apple jam.



"We all was goin on dates and findin' our special someponies and she, my sister Ambrosia that is, was always just spendin' all her time with her group of friends. Now, we didn't think nothin' of it cuz mares her age were always gossipin' and talkin’ fer fun when they was together, but then one day my sister came home late one night and she had a lilly in her hair.



"Back then that meant you was with somepony special and we all was askin’ her all the questions and givin' her the dangest time. Well, come ta turn out she was spendin quality time with Morning Seed. So much so that Morning had put a flower in her hair when they was on a late night walk and my sis just done forgot about it in her excitement.

"Mommy and pappy wasn't havin' none of that stuff in our house when we finally was settlin', so my sister had to break it off with Morning. Well, wouldn’t cha know it, the next mornin' both of 'em was gone! We searched high and low but found not hide er hair from 'em. Then, two weeks later they came back to town walkin’ all close and wearin' matchin dresses and with flowers wrapped in wreaths on their heads, which back then was the same thing as sayin' y'all was hitched.



"Now, my parents were so happy to see them safe ‘n sound that they realized that having their daughter be healthy and happy was more important than losin' her, or any of us, to anger or somethin' silly like that. Soon, the same went for Morning's family too. It spread like wildfire across the town and even started a movement in Manehattan and Baltimare.



“Marrying whoever you wanted was always okay, mind ya, but ya couldn't live together in city limits unless ya was in a herd with both males ‘n females. A few years after what happened it was okay to get married in public and live together in any town ya wanted with a whole ceremony and all the trimmin's.



"That all came about after my sis and Morning was married though, but they lived a happy long life together inside Ponyville city limits, welcomed by all. That's why you only got one aunt, Orange Blossom. But, even with that all my little ponies grew up happy and so did theirs."



The table was quiet as Granny finished her story, all eyes on her. Apple Bloom looked at Applejack then to Rainbow Dash then at her plate. "Ah think Ah'm done with dinner Granny, can Ah be excused?"



"Sure thing, young'n. Just clean up." Apple Bloom nodded as she left the table with her almost empty Plate.



"Granny, I never knew that about Ambrosia. Why didn't you tell us about her?" Applejack asked, leaning a foreleg on the table and resting her chin on it.



"Oh, I told you everything you needed to know about all our family business when ya needed to know. Some things about everypony don't need to be talked about just cuz."

"Eeyup."



"Yeah, Ah recon you're right. I ain't sore at ya, nor did Ah mean to keep it secret. It just never came up.” Granny sighed. “Ah wish Ah told ya sooner, cuz I felt like I was lyin' to y'all for a long time, believin’’ ya liked mares ‘n all." Applejack looked at Rainbow Dash with a soft smile. "It ain't right to lie to yourself to make others happy."



Rainbow Dash smiled at Applejack then looked around the table, her smile faded and she quickly took the last bite of food from her plate and stood up. "Okay, well, thanks for the meal. I'm gonna go home, I've got a lot to do and I slept most of the day so, yeah." Rainbow started for the door but Big Mac got up and blocked her. "Can I get by Big Mac?"



"Nope."



"Really? C'mon big guy, I've gotta lot to do and probably a few clouds to move still."



Big Mac looked at Applejack who gave him a nod. Big Mac scooted back up and started piling up the remaining plates while Applejack got up and walked to the door and beckoned Rainbow Dash to follow.

"Usually, we clean up after ourselves, Rainbow. Big Mac has ya covered today. I'll walk ya to the edge of the farm, and we gotta talk about somethin' on the way."



"Anything that'll get me outside I'm down for," Rainbow said as she flapped then flew slowly to the door.



"I'll be back y'all. Don't wait up, this could be a tough talk." Granny and Big Mac nodded as they started cleaning up the table. Granny called for Apple Bloom to start her chores as Applejack walked out behind Rainbow Dash.



The night air was cool and fresh with a hint of apple scent. Rainbow Dash was flying at a steady pace as Applejack caught up. "Dashing, I love your tail, but maybe you could slow up a bit?"



Rainbow gasped and landed on her haunches, looking back at Applejack shocked for a moment. "Applejack what are we doing? I can't handle this all at once! We have a great night, then my life gets turned all upside down. Your sis hates me and other Pegasus are already making fun of me while I'm working; I had to knock two outta the sky today just to shut 'em up."



"Ya didn't hurt 'em too bad, did ya?" Applejack asked while she sat with Rainbow.



"I don't care, I'm not be treated like a ... whatever."



"Like a filly fooler? A mare lover?"



"I don't know! Maybe," Rainbow said as she stood and began walking ahead of Applejack, down the path out of Sweet Apple Acres.



"Sugarplum, don't get upset. Ya know as good as any pony that ponies tease just cuz they can. You're the worst one I know, Dash. Ya teased Pinkie for three days after she got better from that blue joke flower, remember how you kept asking her to lick your envelopes and stamps for her? And you called Fluttershy 'Flutterguy' for a month, until we all had ta talk to ya and make you stop with authority.



"You can't go fight'n every pony that makes a joke or has a laugh, or you'll never prove 'em one way or the other. Now, speakin' of which, are we gonna go for that date tomorrow or the day after? I'm free both nights and I'll gussy up nice and let Rarity do my hair, just this once, if ya want. Once, Rainbow Dash."



"Oh what the hay. Why not? Everypony thinks I'm that way anyway. I don't see what a dinner would hurt," Rainbow Dash grumped as she trotted ahead, then took to the air turning sharply to the right.



"Hey, where ya going, Dashing? This ain't the way to the road."



"I know. I wanted you to show me the barn. You said there's a place we can do stuff and I wanna see it, just in case."



"Well, slow up. Ah don't want you to trip or get tangled in some hangin’ rope since you can't run," Applejack said confidently as she galloped at her top speed passing Rainbow Dash.



"I'm not losing to you, AJ. Get back here and eat my dust." Following closely above Applejack, Rainbow Dash watched the galloping mare below her as she ran. Her mane waving in the wind, her neck moving forward and back as her defined muscles moved under her healthy orange coat across her body, and her blonde tail bouncing up and down with each bound forward.



As Applejacks hind legs jutted out behind her with every push forward, Rainbow felt herself staring and without realizing it she slowed down to watch Applejack gallop. "You can't go that slow, AJ, or I'm gonna pass you in no time," Rainbow challenged as she watched Applejack speed up.



Everything Rainbow Dash felt unsure about was easing away as she stared at her friend running at top speed. Oh my gosh this is so weird. I'm staring at her like she was a Wonderbolt going for the final stunt.



Arriving at the barn after only a 15 second race, Rainbow Dash flew in the top window and quickly scanned the room for areas to hide. Applejack opened the right door and walked into the darkness; the scent of hay all around her. "Rainbow, where'd ya go? I thought Ah was gonna show you my spot? C'mon outta the shadows."



I went to this place so few times with Twilight and always left after she did. I cried to myself so many times right over there, while she was back at the library readin' a book like nothin' happened between us. Why'd Ah say I'd take Dash here? Maybe I can back out before-



Rainbow Dash jumped out a pile of hay with a shout. Applejack screamed and reared up, falling onto her back and into the straw that was strewn across the barn floor. "Dagnabit, what the buck Rainbow Dash?! Ya scared the pee outta me!"



Rainbow Dash was laughing as she hovered over Applejack. She got a mouth full of hay and began coughing after she breathed some dust into her lungs. It was Applejack’s turn to laugh as she got to her hooves and trotted over to Rainbow Dash. "Ya know I won the race, and I'm havin' the last laugh ta boot. Double win."



Rainbow coughed one last time clearing her throat, spitting the last hay from her mouth then stared Applejack in the eyes. "I hate losing and you know it. I demand a rematch tomorrow."



"After our date?"



"At lunch time, I'll decide the challenge. Loser has to let Rarity dress them up for the date."



"Fine," Applejack replied raising a hoof.



"Fine!" Rainbow shouted and bumped her hoof to Applejack’s.



They looked away from each other then giggled. Looking back at each other they laughed out loud at the silliness of their challenge. They meant it, but it was still silly.



"So, AJ. Where's this place you were talkin about?"



"Well you're actually floating over it. This' the door to my little hidey-hole." Applejack walked over and pulled a rope that was hidden in the floor, exposing a short stairwell down into near darkness.



"Cool secret passage AJ. Where's it lead? Super secret spy lab where you work for a secret agency stopping an evil genius?"



"Yeah. Exactly that, Dash. Now you can't ever leave," Applejack snarked back.



"Oh my gosh, you're serious? I'm sorry! I won't tell anypony! Honest," Rainbow Dash stopped following Applejack down the stairs and covered her eyes with her hooves. "I haven't seen anything."



Rolling her eyes, Applejack continued on. "Rainbow Dash, I was joking. Ah've got enough on my plate with runnin’ a farm and savin' Ponyville and Equestria every few weeks than ta have ta take on some some evil pony from doin' anything. Now c'mon, it's only a couple steps til you're on the floor. I'll get the light."



Rainbow landed in the shorter cellar and watched as Applejack faded into the blackness. Applejack tapped a switch and a single magic light crystal illuminated the cellar. There were barrels of apples stacked two high lining the walls and several deep. "This' it, my secret place that nopony but us Apples know about," she said with pride.



"Wait, did you bring Twilight here?" Applejack's face turned to one of embarrassment and sadness at the mention of sharing her spot.



"Yeah I did, and Ah regret it. Ah spent more time sittin’ with sadness in the dark than cuddled up with somepony or even a good book. Ah brought you here so maybe Ah can have a new and better memory. Also, it's one of the last places in town that's safe."



"Safe?" Rainbow Dash asked with a raised eyebrow.



"Yeah. Places ya can get caught are everywhere. The fine fer havin’ sex outside anytime that’s not durin’ estrus is too much ta wanna pay. Even the barn up there isn't safe. I tried to nap, alone, and got interrupted by birds, Fluttershy, and even Pinkie. I had a bad night once and there were critters all over the place. I couldn't get a second alone with my thoughts with them runnin' round makin’ a ruckus."



"I think you mean fracas."



"No, I looked it up. Ruckus."



"Whatever. So, we do it just right in the middle of the floor? That's not very romantic and the dirt would get some places that would be uncomfortable, but... hey, I'm game," Rainbow stated as she cantered in a circle looking at the dusty ground.



"No, Rainbow Dash, not here on the dirt floor, ya silly filly. We built in a secret room to house our special cider reserves that age inta a nice hard cider right over there, and that's where." Rainbow Dash almost bounced like Pinkie did when she heard the word cider.



"Ci-ci-cider? Secret stash? Secret room? Please AJ, ya gotta let me see!"



"Okay okay, don't get your tail in a knot." Applejack moved a few barrels aside with a few heaves and in view came a small door, wide enough to roll a barrel on its side through. Crawling into the hidden room, Applejack hit something in the pitch darkness and several gems sprung to life, shining the room with cascading rainbows of magic light.



Rainbow Dash's eyes widened in awe at the sight of several dozen kegs of hard cider strapped to the walls, the light cascading against them. Looking around the room she noticed a bed set up with a nightstand just to the left of the entrance with a few books, matches, a lantern, and a jug of water.



It was a place to relax for sure.



Applejack walked into the center of the room, which was larger than it seemed, and sat down on the finished cement floor. Light carpeting that was torn and ripped covered parts of the floor. Rainbow hadn't noticed it at first and didn't think much of it when she did.



"Rainbow, this is my home away from home. Sometimes Ah get so fed up with it all, so I come down here and just get away from it all. Granny knows I come here, so if I'm gone too long she'll have Big Mac come by and check on me. There's a magic crystal over there that lights a gem ‘round Granny's neck if Ah'm hurt or trapped. So, what do ya think?"



Rainbow Dash eyes were almost sparkling with awe, a single tear formed at the corner of her eye while Applejack smiled; waiting to hear something romantic leave Rainbows lips.



"So, are all these barrels full of hard cider?" Rainbow asked.



Applejack facehooved.







"So this' your hide out? I think it's pretty cool. The lights and magic are awesome, and the kegs of sweet sweet cider are, like, the best thing in here! Oh, except you. And I like this bed. It's really high quality. You must've spent a few bits on this. How'd you get it in here?"



"Well, with magic and help. The mattress was the worst part since it’s not a futon but a spring bed. Everything else in here I built piece by piece. It's all a labor of love and it pays me back every time Ah come in here.”



Rainbow flapped her wings. “This place sure is dusty AJ. And the ceiling is so low, too."



"Now Rainbow, ya gotta quit all this nitpicking. It ain't fixin' nothin' and this place here is just fine as is."



"But, I can't even jump on the bed. Look," Rainbow walked over to the bed and stood on it, her wings opened and touched the stone ceiling, "see."



"Well Sugarplum, ain't no reason to jump on that bed. I use it for sleepin', relaxin', and readin'."



"And sex," Rainbow Dash gave a seductive look at Applejack.



"A couple times, mostly alone. I spend most of my time with books and my thoughts.”



"Sounds kinda really boring and lame."



"Shut up, Rainbow Dash," Applejack playfully punched the cyan mare in the shoulder. “Let’s take a seat and see how the bed feels with us both on it.”
> Coming together
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Applejack smiled slightly as Rainbow Dash walked with her to the bed. Rainbow flew to the bed and sat, wings open and forelegs out. Applejack climbed into her embrace and sighed contently as Rainbow’s wings wrapped around her. "You're so warm, Dashing. Do you ever get cold?"

"No, not really. Pegasi are resistant to cold and wind and we have tough skin too; that's why we don't get hurt from flying fast. Kinda sucks when it’s hot though,” she mumbled. “Even though we don't do it hardly at all, we can fly so far up the air becomes hard to breathe and the water on our eyes starts to freeze. I did it once and the world is such a beautiful place from that high up. There weren't any ponies, critters, trees, noise, or clouds. Just me and the cold. Yeah, I’m one of the only ponies to do it in the past decade. Just showing how awesome and adventurous I am. It was only for a few minutes, but I've never seen anything so cool. Well, until I saw you this morning wearing my apron," Rainbow said passively.

Applejack grinned at those last words. That's the most romantic thing I've heard Rainbow Dash ever say. That's more romantic than anything I’ve read in one’a my books. That's the most romantic thing I've ever heard, Ah think. My heart's all a flutter…

Applejack pulled away from Rainbow Dash, sat up, and looked into Rainbow's ruby eyes as she leaned in for a kiss. Their lips pressed gently, their kiss was soft and slow, Rainbow Dash’s warm lips lightly pressed against Applejack’s as she both shuddered. Their bodies intertwined as their legs wrapped around each other’s bodies. Applejack laid down with Rainbow climbing on top of her in a smooth motion.

"AJ, I've never really done it like this before?"

"You mean in a cellar, or on a real bed that ain't made of clouds?" Rainbow Dash stopped to think for a second.

"Both of those, but I meant on top. You were such a natural and I don't know, what if I'm-"

"Hush, Sugarplum. Mama'll teach ya what ya need to know as we go along."

Rainbow’s face flushed as the thought of what she was about to do. It was both embarrassing and thrilling. "Rainbow Dash you're turnin' kinda purple. Are you blushing again? That's so adorable," Applejack chuckled.

"Well, I want get this show on the road," Rainbow whispered as she lowered her body against Applejack's and began to kiss her again. Using her wings as balance, Rainbow began caressing Applejack's sides from her flanks to her sides, shoulders and finally to the soft cheeks of her face with her hooves. Applejack trembled and wrapped her forelegs around Rainbow.



Moving her right hind leg free, Applejack wrapped her free leg around Dash's hips and felt Dash's leg and tail hair brush against her swelling hind lips. With a gentle movement, Rainbow Dash's tail hairs brushed vigorously against Applejack's marehood, making Applejack tremble and tighten her grip on Rainbow.

"Am I doing a good job so far, AJ?" Rainbow asked between kisses. Applejack took in a deep breath as she collected her swirling thoughts.

"Don't stop," was all she could pant as she thrust her hips up moved her mound up the soft leg until their pussies touched, as they rubbed their their sensitive areas together they moaned deeply.

Rainbow felt it happening and moved her hips down and back, rubbing her moist lips against Applejack's as they both let out a slight moan in pleasure as their kissing resumed. Rainbow Dash mewled slightly at the sensation of her clit being rubbed lightly.

Rainbow broke the kiss with an awkward look on her face as she cleared her throat. "AJ, I wanna try something but, I'm really not sure how to go about it."

"Dashing, I ain't gonna judge ya or anything you do. Please, just do somethin' or Ahm gonna have to take over."

Rainbow Dash scrunched her nose at the thought of losing control and pushed her body off Applejack's suddenly, taking to a hover. "You aren't getting me to give up that easily. Just you watch, I'll show you how awesome I am at this too," Rainbow’s voice cracked ashs he spoke with her usual confidence that made Applejack chuckle.

Putting the weight back on her hooves, Rainbow folded her wings and climbed down Applejack's body with a determined look, kissing the orange mare’s belly as she lowered herself.

Ohmygosh. Ohmygosh. Ohmygosh. Ohmygosh. Ohmygosh. Ohmygosh, Rainbow’s mind raced, What am I doing? I can't believe this is going to happen. I can't believe I'm going to do this. No. I can do this. I can do this. I've fought Nightmare Moon. I've done the sonic rainboom, twice. I've saved Equestria, for Celestia’s sake. I can do this and do it awesomely.

She finished her pep-talk as she rested her head against Applejack's thigh and looked at the slit inches before her muzzle. It was glistening with moisture, the heat was noticable, and she could smell the slight aroma of apples and musk wafting to her nose with each twitch it’s owner made.

Tightening the muscles in her chest as she breathed in she steeled herself and leaned closer before she rubbed her muzzle against Applejack's mound. Applejack's legs quivered as Rainbow repeated the action a couple more times before she let herself relax. Quickly she poked the tip of her tongue out of her lips. Here I go.

Rainbow took a deep breath and held it as she looked at the marehood close up and gulped the anxiety down her throat. She let her tongue glide along the length of Applejack’s pussy, watching it happen.

The sensation made Applejack giggle at the inexperienced mares, effort. She felt her legs trembling as Rainbow Dash occasionally touched a sensitive spot but she moaned nonetheless. If I don't encourage her she won't get better. "Mmm. Oh yeah, Sugarplum, right there, more please, deeper." For a first time she ain't doin' too bad. Maybe if she -"Ohhhhohohoho," Applejack gasped and gripped the bed tightly as Rainbow found a motion on a spot that worked just right.

Oh yeah, I got this in the bag. Rainbow smiled as she began pressing her tongue inside her folds, the scent and flavors that were covering her muzzle and tongue as she gained more confidence in what she was doing was starting to make her eager to please. She extended her tongue mid-lick to full length, penetrating virgin territory for her taste buds. Applejack arched her back and moaned as she grabbed at the sides of the bed. The sudden sensation of Rainbow’s tongue touching the deeper parts of herself took her completely by surprise.

"Danggggg-it Dash, don't stop. Don't bucking stop..." she grumbled through clenched teeth.

As Rainbow moved her tongue as deep as she could she noticed the flavors changing as she lapped the tight inner sanctum of her best friend. From sweet to slightly salty to some flavors she couldn't describe, but made her own marehood tremble. Balancing her weight on her wings again she reached one of her hooves to her own slit and began rubbing at her own fast pace while she placed the other hoof against the base of Applejack's slit and applied a little pressure in synch with her deep lapping tongue.

Applejack felt a familiar and yet almost foreign feeling rising in her body that she sorely missed as Rainbow Dash kept the vigorous pace. As Applejack looked at the stone ceiling and the magic lights dancing across her field of vision she gave in to the sensations she missed feeling with a partner. From the deepest parts of her body she felt an explosion rising.

"Oh Celestia, Dash. Rainbow Dash. Don't stop, Dash. Oh yeah. Right there. Please, yes. Yes!. YESS."

Rainbow heard Applejack but pressed on both their winking pussies, becoming a little more vigorous and deeper with her licking the deepest parts her tongue could reach. She opened her mouth and covered Applejack's whole mound with her mouth as she thrust her tongue as deep as she could while she sucked at the same time.

The feeling of a winking clip moving in her mouth was new but very welcome. She didn't know why, but it felt right. She felt a great pressure at the tip of her tongue as Applejack tightened almost all her muscles at once and let out a scream through clenched teeth that echoed through the room.

Rainbow stopped the mutual masturbation and wrapped her forelegs around Applejack's flanks as the mare’s legs curled to her body. Holding her open muzzle tightly against Applejack's pussy she held tight as the orange mare’s body contorted and almost twisted away from her cunniligual attack. You're not getting away that easily, AJ. I'm winning this one.

Riding with Applejack's movements Rainbow tasted a wash of warm sweet creamy juice running into her mouth then gagged as almost a cider mug worth of fluid splashed across her face and spilled from her mouth as she pulled away and swallowed instinctively.

The whole while her eyes were locked on Applejack's orgasming body.

With half a thought about how it tasted, Rainbow gulped her mouth as clear as she could then laid on her belly and back to it thrusting her tongue back into the shaking and writhing body. Applejack gasped as Rainbows tongue reentered her body, rubbing against every already sensitive spot she was feeling. Screaming with a confusing flood of sensations, Applejack’s orgasm intensified as wave after wave of ecstasy crashed into her, flooding her mind and clearing all her senses, save for ‘get away’.

She scrambled to her side and without though her hooves touched the stone floor and she ran ahead into a double stack of cider barrels. She fell to her side but her body kept moving, ignorant to the fact she was now lying on her side and practically running in a circle in a mindless, orgasmic state.

Slowly, she calmed. Her galloping legs slowed to random spasms and her thoughts returned. Oh my, this' best I've ever had. Ah can’t even move’r think or… ugh,” she sighed as she fell asleep, not noticing the panicked mare hovering over her.

…

“AJ?! Are you okay?” Rainbow asked the orange mare as she flittered an eye open. Applejack started to laugh with a deep throated grumble that turned into an echoing laugh as the only feeling she could convey was how good she felt. “Well,” Rainbow said with a smile, “at least you’re okay.”

Applejack laughed for a full minute as her pussy tingled, she could feel each time it clenched tighter and sent a pulse of laughter each time it loosened. Finally, she inhaled deeply and sighed. “That, Rainbow Dash, changed mah life.”

“Uh, okay? So, you’ve been out for like half an hour, you’re okay, right?”

With a giggle, Applejack gulped dryly. “Ah’m a might thirsty, but I’m good. Yeah,” she said breathily as she lifted her head to look at Rainbow, tears having matted her fur, “never better, Sugarcube.”

Applejack fell back asleep in the bed, leaving Rainbow alone in the room again.

Moving from the bed, Rainbow Dash went to a barrel of hard cider and dragged a hoof across its center. “Hey, beautiful,” she whispered as she looked at it in awe. She turned and looked at the sleeping mare, a smile plastered on her muzzle even as she slumbered. Taking a leap, Rainbow was at the doorway and climbed under going to a nearby table and she took a tap in her wing with a grin.

She grabbed a mug in her other wing and returned to the barrel, tapped it like a keg, and filled the mug, gulping it down quickly. It had a hint of salt to it, which she knew ponies needed to get drunk faster, better. She filled her mug again and gulped it down with an exhale of happiness. “That, is better than normal cider by leaps and bounds,” she rasped.



She filled the mug again and sat down, the mug in her hooves in front of her mouth. She felt bad for a moment, stealing cider from Applejack. Then the buzz hit her and she pushed the sad thoughts away.

…

Applejack stirred on the bed as Rainbow Dash sat up from the floor and burped into her hoof to muffle the sound. She quickly turned the barrel around to hide the tap. "Applejack? You're awake! Oh, I was kinda worried I was gonna put you into the hospital."

Applejack moved her legs and stretched her body, then looked up at the barrel that had been tapped then scowled. With a movement she was off the bed and Rainbow Dash was pinned by her wings against the barrel she had tapped. "Ohmygosh, Applejack, I'm so sorry. I couldn't help myself! I was-"

Applejack kissed Rainbow passionately and lowered her forelegs against dashes forelegs tightly, pressing them to her body so they couldn't let the orange mare go. Applejack began peppering her lover with kisses, more than she could count as her lips bounced across the cyan face and down her neck with a barrage of 'pik' sounds.

Applejack picked up the mare in her forelegs like she weighed nothing, carried Rainbow to the bed while the mare struggled in the mighty earth pony grip, and laid on top of her, holding her still. The tightness around Rainbows body was intense as she tried to loosen the grip of the strongest mare she knew with her wings and grunts of frustration, yet inside she was thrilled at being dominated. She stopped struggling when they kissed, Applejack’s knee returning to the special place under Rainbow’s tail.

"Rainbow Dash," Applejack said to her friend in a calm, slow, and loving voice as she let her grip go and pushed herself up onto her forelegs, "Ah've never had anything like that happen before to me in my life. More importantly, is how ya make me feel when I see you. Ah know this' sudden to say but I, I love you so much Dash. I haven't ever loved anypony as much as I love you and I hope Ah never will. You really are the best."

Why is Applejack talking so carefully? I hardly none of her accent is there at all. Oh my gosh, she's serious. That's why. She really loves me. She really loves me? She really loves me!

Rainbow Dash grabbed Applejack's face again and inspected her for sights of dishonesty. Even though she knew she wasn't going to find any. She couldn't believe what she had heard.

There has to be a reason why she loves me. No pony loves me. I've got too many branches. Everypony said so, right? 

"Uh, Sugarplum, can ya let go of my face? It's kinda pinchy."

"Kiss me again."

"Uh, okay, Sugarplum," she said questionably. She kissed Rainbow again, this time Rainbow wrapped her wings around Applejack and let her passion flow into the kiss. Breaking the kiss Applejack looked at Rainbow's face and for the first time she saw the love she had always wanted reflecting back at her in the ruby eyes of her lover. Her heart began beating faster and both of them felt emotions filling them; trying to burst out.

Applejack sniffled and rolled to the side, they were looking at each other as they refused to blink. Refused to let each other go. Refused to let time come between them.

"Make love to me, my Awesome-Jack. Please, I-I, love you too." I really do. I never thought I would but, I do. Darn it, I’m getting all sappy and it’s only been a couple days!

Applejack sat up at the emotional admission in surprise, looking at Rainbow Dash, who had a tear in her eye. "Please AJ, you're the first one to tell me that and mean it in so long. I need you to love me more than anypony else ever before."

"Dashing,” she gulped as she sensed the honest truth coming from Rainbow. “Ah do love you and I know you love me too. I've waited... so long for this feeling,” she gave in to her female urges and let a tear fall from her eye in happiness. “Now, let mama show ya how it's done."
> Just when it's getting good...
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rainbow Dash giggled as Applejack kissed her belly, swirling her tongue in little circles, moistening the cyan mare's nipples as she began blowing her warm apple scented breath on Rainbow Dash's nipples. The warm air from Applejack mixed with the cool dampness of the cellar was exhilarating to Rainbow as she rolled her hips up. "Now, Sugarplum, you wanna get right to it? Nope. Ya gotta let mama teach you a lesson 'fore ya get yer kiss goodnight."

"Oh c'mon, AJ. Just get it goin' already!"

"It's time Ah teach you about patience and how it's a virtue."

"I don't care about that. I wanna get my lesson, or whatever."

"This is yer lesson, now hush." Applejack sucked one of Dashes nipples and brushed her tongue against it making Dash moan slightly and gyrate her hips. Raising her hips higher and reaching down, Rainbow pushed her hooves against Applejack's head, trying to get her to go lower.

Pushing herself up on her forelegs, Applejack looked at Rainbow Dash with a furrowed brow. "Now, Dash. Ya gotta let me work to show ya the magic."

With a heavy groan, Rainbow rolled her eyes. "AJ, when I did what I did to you, I didn't make you wait, and it was amazing. You should do the same thing to me! C'mon, let me have it!" she implored, curling her hind legs to her body and showing her marehood to Applejack. With her forelegs and hooves she grabbed her dock and pulled lightly, opening her vulva, showing the wet pink inside.

"Dashie. I. Ain't. Jokin'.” the mare stomped a hoof into to mattress. “That was how you did it ta me. Ah got my own way of doin' things."

"Whatever. Just, start to do it quick."

"Rainbow Dash,” she sighed, “that's not what Ah’m talkin' bout. Can't ya just slow down sometimes?"

"No. I'm the best, and if I slow down I lose. I can't lose."

"Why?” Applejack shouted, her voice ringing back into her ears. “For apples' sakes, why can't you slow the buck down? Why is everything a bucking race with you?!" Applejack shouted at Rainbow Dash, “Why can’t you just, come down ta earth and be with me?”

Rainbow's eyes filled with tears instantly as she shouted back. "Because then I'll be a loser."

"Why the buck would you be a loser, and bein' a loser isn’t bad?" Applejack said placing her hooves on Rainbow’s legs, helping herself to a seated position on the bed.

"Because,” Rainbow sniffled, “darn it, I’m all sappy now!” she grunted and rolled over, then sat, facing Applejack. “I had to fight for every bit of respect I ever got. I had to race to win to make them happy."

"Who happy?"

"My parents..." she replied quickly, dejectedly.

"What? Why’d ya have to make them happy?" Applejack's expression softened.

"They wouldn't stop cheering me on. They were always there, showering me with praise and affection. I couldn’t let them down. Rainbow Crash. Rainbow Crash. Rainbow Crash.” Rainbow snarled. “All the fillies and colts would say that and laugh, but my parents would only support me louder, harder. They'd embarrass me to death, and I owed them happiness because they gave me so much, too much, support."

Rainbow Dash fell to her side and covered herself with her wings as she finished her story. Applejack placed a hoof against Rainbows flank. "Oh, Rainbow. Yer parents just loved ya, that’s all."

Rainbow continued as though she didn’t hear Applejack. "When I crashed in the flying courses they’d be there, cheering me on. When I lost a race, they were there, cheering me on. ‘You’ll be a Wonderbolt and change the world.’ Daddy would say every night. That's why I’m so obsessed with them, AJ. I hear him tell me that still, in my thoughts before bed. That's why I have so many branches. That's why I always have to be the best. I can’t let them down, I can’t," her voice cracked, “break their hearts.”

Applejack laid behind Rainbow and draped her foreleg over Rainbow Dash. "Dashing, I'm sorry you grew up with that. Ah can't imagine what it felt like,” she sighed remembering her own parents and the love they gave their children. “You're all grown up now, and you have a great life and friends  that you don’t need to make happy, because you make them happy by being you. No pony thinks you're a loser, either, and none of yer real friends ever will, especially me."

Rainbow loosened her wings around herself as she shut her eyes tight and flattened her ears to her head, blocking out the world around her. "Sugarplum," Applejack continued, "what happened in the past is in the past. You don't live there anymore, live with me today and come into tomorrow with me."

Rainbow moved her head up and peeked out through her wings. Turning so she could see Applejack. "What does that even mean?"

"Sugarplum, it means that whatever happened made you into the mare that so many ponies love, respect, and care about. Your parents’ love fer you shaped you. It means that I want to see what you do tomorrow. Not because you're the best at everything, but because you're a pony like the rest of us and you're doin' the best ya can with what ya have." Applejack nuzzled Rainbow’s neck as she finished explaining.

Relaxing her wings Rainbow Dash turned over and looked at Applejack. "AJ, I-I'm scared."

"Wha- Why are ya scared, Rainbow? Ah thought ya weren’t scared of anything."

"I'm... scared of what would happen if I don't win, if I lose. If I fail, break somepony’s hearts. What will happen if I'm not the best, AJ? What'll happen if I let everypony down at the crucial minute? What if I let Equestria down?"

Applejack looked into Rainbow Dash's face and scrunched her own. "Rainbow Dash, we'll never leave you; not ever. We'll never be mad at you. You're Rainbow Dash.  Everypony knows you'll do your best everytime, and your friends will walk through the fires of Tartarus to help you and hold you in our embrace.

"You've taught me so much about so many things. I wouldn't be the mare I am right now if I hadn't met you. I'd still be secretly wantin' a mare while having a coltfriend, and I woulda hated myself. Ah never woulda known to be happy, really happy, without you showin' me how confident a mare can be. Goin’ on adventures, challenging me, pushin’ me to be better, faster, and how ta show off a bit, ta boot."

"You have your family, AJ. They’re always supporting you, keeping you confident and strong," Rainbow Dash said as she folded her wings to her sides so she could turn to her back.

"My family does just that. But, they're my family. Ah needed to see somepony else that could handle the world for what it is and not what it looked like, and ta show me somethin’ new that Ah didn’t know I was missin’. Sure, farmin' is great and all, but there ain't no adventure in it.

“When I met you and you were flyin' all over the sky and braggin' ‘bout how you were the best, it made me feel challenged, like Ah had to tame ya, ta bring you down and put you in yer place. Ah didn’t really know there was life outside the farm and Ponyville since I got my cutie mark. With you in my world, I swore I'd see it all someday."

"What? AJ, you're gettin all sappy."

"Ah think that's why I always challenge ya, just to see how far we can go together."

"AJ, I still can't believe you have feelings for me. After all I’ve said and done over the years, the times I’ve broken stuff. The times I teased you for not taking breaks and working so hard. The times I even slacked off and didn’t rain on your orchard because I was napping or practicing."

"Well, Ah do all of that, and that includes lovin’ the daylights outta you fer years longer than we’ve been close friends," she said factly as she poked Rainbow in the chest, "and the whole world’s gonna hafta deal with it. Ah hope you're ready for that."

"I'll take the challenge: On one condition," she looked over with a daring grin.

"What's that now?"

Putting her best country accent on. "Ya don't tell nopony ‘bout how sappy Ah am in private."

Applejack chuckled when she heard the imitation. "Deal. Now, Ah think we should get."

"But, you didn't make me cry yet," Rainbow nearly whined.

"No, Dashing, but Ah will. We talked our feelin’s and that's better than making you cum today." Rainbow pouted again and looked at Applejack with the biggest pleading eyes she could make. "Sorry, Dashing, ya gotta go. I hafta get ta my real bed and ya can’t stay over with A.B. bein’ so sore."

Rainbow Dash sighed in defeat as she rolled off the bed and went to the small doorway. "This isn't over," she huffed as she left. Hearing Rainbow's hoofsteps fade into the distance and climb the stairs, Applejack fell back onto the bed and hugged herself while giggling. She loves me. She really loves me. Ah can't believe it. Rainbow Dash loves me, even with all her branches. Applejack giggled again as she rolled side to side, hardly able to contain her joy and excitement. "Ah feel like a filly again."





Rainbow Dash walked into the door to her home, walked upstairs to her bedroom, and opened the door to see her bed a mess still. Oh yeah, I guess I had a different start to this crazy day. I don't wanna change the sheets, so... good night, Equestria! she thought as she hopped into the air and flew to her bed.

Rainbow stopped flapping and fell into her bed, quickly pulling the covers over herself. She grinned as the slight scent of lovemaking filled her senses, arousing her almost immediately. I didn't get to finish, damn it. Oh well, I have a few minutes to take care of that. Dash grinned wickedly as she climbed off her bed and flew to the cloud wall. Moving some clouds away she revealed a box with her cutie mark drawn on it poorly.

Removing the box, she sat and opened it to find her stash of photos from her past, participant awards that were memorable to her, and two sex toys of various sizes. One a pony, the other a horse. Picking out the pony sized one, she climbed into bed and covered herself up, got onto her knees, and imagined an attractive stallion mounting her as she moved the dildo into place with her hoof.



She reached under herself getting it into position on the bed then moved back until it was pressed against her moist pussy. With a squeak, she lowered her hind and slowly let it penetrate her. With a quiet squeal, she lowered herself as she felt it deeper inside of her until it touched her special place, making her gasp as a shot of pleasure made her pussy tense around the fake cock. she slowly turned her hips and used her hind hooves to hold the dildo in place while she moved her hips around, making sure it rubbed her spot, just right and enough to make her tremble.

She began moving up and down, relishing as the medial ring popped in and out of her body. She imagined the stallion grunting behind her, his fetlocks locked onto her hips as he sped up, indicating his nearing climax, sending her closer herself. She spread her knees further apart and lowered her hips even more, letting the dildo slide deeper, the flare pressing against her cervix and moving her womb with each thrust.

Twisting slightly as she raised her hips, gyrating as it moved in and out, faster inside of her, squishing sounds telling how close she was to climaxing as her body trembled and she giggled from the sensations filling the rear of her body. Forcing it as deep inside her as she could, she felt her orgasm coming and reached under herself, pressing the fake balls, turning on a vibration that made her shout as her tail straightened, her wings threw the top sheet off her bed, and her body convulsed as her body released fluid to accompany her orgasm.

"APPLEJACK,” she screamed to the pillows above her head as she grabbed one and pulled it to her body, burying her face into it and screaming several times as the vibration kept her orgasm going. She finally raised her hind as quickly as she could, freeing herself from the tingling assault that rocked her body to the core. She snickered as he toy kept vibrating and bouncing on the bed.

A thought crossed her mind as she basked in the afterglow, warming her body and, had it not been for the dildo that was now buzzing her leg, she would have fallen asleep.

Applejack. Why did I call her name?

Getting up she turned off and wiped her toy off on the sheets before she put it back into the box and placed the box back into the wall, hiding it again. Looking at her bed she couldn't stop thinking of Applejack grinding their mounds together that morning after breakfast and the scent of their juices mixing, running into their tail hair and across their teats. The first time she’d tasted another mare, the most incredible orgasm of her life… She took time to make her bed, then went to the closet to get another blanket. She balled it up and laid it next to her, pulling it close, cuddling into it as she breathed in the scent of sex, and apples, in her bed. Good night, AJ. Thank you so much for today.





Walking back into the farmhouse, Applejack looked around and listened to the silence. It was nice to have the floor to herself, she thought as she went to the den and lit a lantern. She picked up an older book at random from a short shelf and laid on the floor by the couch on a fluffy rug.

She read the first few pages then started to feel her eyes getting heavy as she let a yawn escape. After all the excitement today, Ah’m exhausted. Reckin Ah outta turn in, as I have a big day tomorrow catchin’ up on chores and maintain’ crops. That doesn't even account for what Ah gotta do about me and Rainbow.

With a sigh, Applejack got up and put the book away, then blew out the lantern before she began walking upstairs. She went to her room, closed the door, and looked at her bed, sighing again. Ah don't wanna sleep alone tonight, or ever again.

She left her room to go to Apple Bloom's door, opening it slowly. She peeked through the darkness to Apple Bloom's bed and listened for a second. Her ears perked as she heard a quiet moan coming from the bed followed by a quiet gasp. She noticed the covers moving a certain way and moved her head back outside the door.

Ah’ll give her a few minutes, Applejack smiled, remembering being that kind of filly herself, only usually she’d be doing it with another filly watching or helping. It’s totally natural and ain’t wrong. Just, leave her be, Applejack, she’ll sleep better for it.

A few minutes later she returned and placed an ear to the door, listening intently, with deep concentration. She knocked softly when she was sure her sister was done. "Who's there?" the filly asked tiredly.

"Applebloom, it's me. If it’s okay, uhm,” she realized she hadn’t asked this in a very long time, "Applebloom. Ah don't wanna sleep alone tonight," Applejack said quietly lowering her head.

"Can't ya sleep with Rainbow Dash?" she said with a frown, still lying down on her pillow.

"No, Ah can't. I wanna sleep with my sis, who Ah love and care for very much."

Sighing Applebloom pulled the covers open on half her bed and rolled over. "Ya gettin' in or not?"

Smiling Applejack climbed into bed with her sister and cuddled up to her. She smelled her sister's mane and it reminded her of playing outside in the grass when she was younger and the faint scent of... Oh my, you naughty filly. Ya best wash yer hooves before breakfast.

"Applejack?"

"Hmm?"

"You'll always love me, right?"

Applejack yawned. "Of course, Sugarcube. You'll always be my sister and I'll always be there to love, guide, and protect you."

"Applejack," Applebloom turned over and faced her sister, "Ah don't like Rainbow Dash right now. But, Ah love you and Ah-Ah'll do my best to like her, for you."

Applejack smiled and kissed her sister on the forehead, yawning again. "Thanks... Apple Bloom. That means, a lot ta.... me," she said quietly, sleep taking her quickly.

"Ah love ya, Applejack.”

They both yawned.

"I love you too, Rainbow Dash," Applejack said as she fell into the last layer of sleep.

Applebloom stared at her for a solid minute before turning over and relaxing into her sister’s loose embrace. Ah’m gonna hafta work extra hard this time, she thought as she felt sleep encroaching on her. Rainbow Dash, ya hurt my sister’s feelings and you won’t ever hurt another pony’s feelin’s again when we let Gabby Gums come back fer another gossip line. This time in the public papers, but with a new name. She yawned. “Tomorrow, the CMC will talk it over,” she mumbled as she fell asleep.
> Going back to life can be hard
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

A rooster’s crow echoed across the acres. Where it started she didn't care, but it reached her ears all the same.  They wiggled and moved as she stirred awake. Applejack yawned and opened her eyes as the rooster woke her completely. She felt her sister squeezing tightly to her and groan. "Ah don't wanna wake up yet."

"Apple Bloom, it's time to get up. We gotta big day ahead of us."

"Applejack?" she asked groggily and opened her eyes, "did ya sleep good?"

"Yeah. You're a rough sleeper though. Nearly bucked me outta bed once."

"Whatever," Apple Bloom said as she rolled away from her sister and out of bed, "rooster's crowin' so time to get goin'."

Applejack smiled and rolled off the other side. "Help me make yer bed before ya so," she said as she grabbed half the sheets and pulled them up. Apple Bloom helped make the bed but avoided eye contact with Applejack. "Apple Bloom, everything okay?"

"Ah'm fine, let's just get breakfast," she said bluntly as soon as the bed was made. Applejack let Apple Bloom lead, following her out of her room, giving her space to walk a bit ahead of her. That filly has a lot on her mind, Ahm just gonna let her work it out herself. I got chores to do, after a hearty breakfast.





After a healthy and balanced breakfast, Applejack grabbed a couple sandwiches and bottle of apple juice before she went out out to the orchard to check the trees before tending to the plots of soil and vegetables growing in them.

She had checked a half dozen trees when she saw Big Mac pulling a cart full of bushels to the barn for repair and storage before harvest time. She galloped over and stopped him when he unhitched from the cart. "Big Mac, we gotta have some words."

He looked at her with lazy eyes and nodded. "Big Mac, what was Apple Bloom talkin' about yesterday?" Big Mac straightened up, looking aside nervously.

He hooked up to Applejack then made to walk past her. "Nope."

"Big Mac,” she blocked him with herself and a stern look, “you're gonna tell me what she was talkin' about. Ain't no other way about it, so start spillin' the beans."

Big Mac sighed and resigned himself, raising his head to face Applejack. Already having a red coat his blush was hidden, however it was obvious he was embarrassed about something "Applejack..." he started slowly

"Get talkin' and make it snappy, Ah got chores to catch up and this better be good."

"Applejack, me an Cherilee might’a got carried away at school's all."

"What's that mean Big Mac? How do you get carried away doin' anything?"

"Last Hearts and Hooves Day," he reflected, "those three gave me and Cherilee a love poison, ya recall. Later, she was outta estrus when she asked me to help her give a demonstration at class. I showed up and..."

Applejack cautiously got closer to her brother, ears back and head lowered, looking under the brim of her hat at him. "And what? What did you two do?"

"We lost control when we saw each other, after effect of the potion. She reared up on her desk and moved her tail, then asked me to mount her, and my head got all muddles...  I just forgot where I was."

"Big Mac," Applejack gasped, "you, you didn't?"

Big Mac dropped his head and nodded.

"Oh, Big Mac. What the buck? How could you? And Cheerilee? At the school?! Oh horse apples. Apple Bloom said we learnt a lot. The whole class there?"

Big Mac just huffed, the hay and dust beneath his muzzle disturbing slightly. "Ya danged fool!" Applejack raised a hoof and brought it across his face, hard. "What the Tartarus is wrong with you!? Plantin’ yer seen in fertile soil in front’a foals!

"In front of a classroom of fillies and colts," she growled. She was seething with anger, rage, and disgust at her brother as she shouted at him. He stood there and took it all not moving.

"Applejack, I'm sorry," he said roughly, "I don't know how to apologize."

Gritting her teeth her eyes began to water as she spoke at him in a deeper and more threatening voice. "Big Mac, I don't know what to do about this. Yer family, so Ah ain't gonna turn you into the police, same for Cheerilee, cuz it'd come back ta us. You messed up big this time, Big Mac, and there ain't no fixin' it if any pony makes trouble fer us."

"Applejack-"

"No, I ain't hearin' nothin' else. What you done..." Applejack grunted and turned, galloping back into the orchard. She weaved through trees until she found a tree she took her frustrations out on she’d named Sidewinder. She bucked the tree so hard it shook it’s dead branches and swayed slightly, the cracking sound of roots breaking under the ground were audible. "Damn it.DAMN IT." She screamed as she reared and punched the air. Her shout echoed across the orchard. Pacing around the tree she tried to calm down.

As she felt anger, sadness creeped in as she growled and closed her eyes. There's some things young'ns should learn and a way to learn 'em. What those two did... Ain't no excusin' that. Takin' that innocence from them little ones. Love potion or no, they both shoulda known better.

"Applejack?"

Applejack stopped pacing and felt herself tense as Big Mac's voice called her name. "Applejack, I am so sorry, and I know I ain't ever gonna make what I did okay or better. I don't want you to hate me or Cherilee. It was all a big mistake and I regret it more than anything. Mating in class was wrong, but we didn’t know it ‘til after we were done, when the last of the spell faded."

"Brother, Ah don't wanna hear anything else ya gotta say."

"I know. Just, lookit me Applejack," Applejack looked at her brother and gasped at him. He had a slightly bleeding scratch from her previous slap with her rough hooves. Unphased he continued. "We're family, and in the end that's all we have. We’re like perfect Apple Pie. We need a crust, and a pan ta cook it in, but the fillin’s what makes it a pie, us a pie."

"Oh, Big Mac. I'm so sorry," Applejack rushed to him and looked at his injury and felt her anger go, "we're family. You're right. C'mon to the house, Ah gotta fix ya up quick."

He coughed with a laugh and turned to follow her as he stumbled slightly and chuckled. "AJ, you got one strong slap."

"Well... ya deserved it at the time."

He laughed loudly. “Ah reckon I coulda used that before Ah drank that love poison like a danged fool.”





Rainbow Dash stretched as she got out of bed and looked out her window to the cumulus clouds and rainbow falls that made up her home; the blue sky beyond her beckoned. So, another day begins. With a yawn she remade her bed with new sheets, put the old ones in the laundry after breathing them in deeply, then admired herself in the mirror. Her mane was unkempt and wind whipped,  just how she liked it. Her eyes were as awesome as ever and her fur was... She sniffed herself and with a wince and vocalization; concluded she needed a shower, badly.

Walking into her bathroom she went to the far end and pulled a cloud into place and punched it. The warm rain washing falling relaxed her as she sat on her flank and closed her eyes, raising her chin so the water cascaded from muzzle to tail in a steady stream.

She could feel her mane getting heavy with water and falling to her back and sides. As the water washed her clean from all the sweat, scents, and saliva from the previous day she let her memory drift back to the events of last night briefly then she shook her head. "Don't get sappy, Rainbow Dash,” she told herself, fighting the warm feeling in her chest and the smile playing across her lips. “You've got a lot to do and you can't let thoughts of how awesome yesterday was get in the way. How awesome AJ is, and being cuddled, and the cider..."

She sighed and hopped into the air. With a jab, she punched the cloud again; stopping the warm water. She shook as dry as she could then went to the mirror above the sink and hovered, looking at herself. Water droplets clung to her reflection as she smiled and pointed at herself. "You got it, mare. Now, go do it to it."

She left her house in a prismatic blur to the local weather office near town hall and landed on the roof. Filing paperwork was Rainbow Dash's least favorite task and she often delegated it to others as often as she could. Today wasn't one of those days. Walking into the office from the employee staircase she garnered a few looks and a group of female Pegasi giggled when she walked past.

Ignoring the stares and comments she went to her mailbox and saw it full. Fuller than it should be for taking two slow days off. "Hey, what the flock? Why am I drowning in paperwork and Flutterwing's box is empty? She's been sick for a week!"

"Well, Miss Dash," a stallion said from behind her. She tensed her jaw. Diamond Wing.  "When you took an extra day off, Double and Misty had to cover the edge of the Everfree and the area over the southeast end of town while Flutterwing, who returned yesterday, had to cover the southern valley, all your areas."

"Oh, c'mon, Diamond. Ya know as well as I do that the Everfree weather usually takes care of itself and-"

"No, Rainbow Dash, you listen. As your boss I have to make sure that you, as a weather manager,” he emphasized with a widening of his eyes, “set the best example for every other member of the cloud team. Taking an impromptu vacation and slacking on your work for any reason, personal or professional, is not excusable. Do your paperwork and I want it by three this afternoon or I'll have you do laps until I'm done for the day. That gives you five hours, since you had to be late again, get to it."

Grinding her teeth lightly Rainbow Dash knew she could fight and argue with the stallion before her in front of everypony and win. There were already enough eyes and ears on their conversation. "Yes sir," she said as she saluted sarcastically. She flew to one of the open cubicles to start her work. If I fight him publically there's a chance my love life will come up then that'll turn into a tornado. I don’t want to think about Soarin dumping me or… AJ. I'm better off just letting it go.

Entering the cubicle she sat at the desk and started organizing her paperwork by job type as a mare poked her head in. "Heya Dash, ya got a second?"

Rolling her eyes Rainbow looked at the mare. "What do you want, Quill?"

She spoke softly as to not be heard. "I heard you and Applejack, the farmer, are having a thing and-"

"No! I mean, ugh, whatever. Everypony’s gonna find out eventually and how the heck did you find out? You know what, nevermind. I swear if you make a joke I'll do something that'll get me suspended for a week."

"No, no, no, nothing like that. I’m inviting you two to come to a party at my place Saturday night? It's exclusive and only a few ponies will be there."

Thinking it over for a moment Dash took a smug expression. "Fine, I'll see what I can move around. Now, I have a lot of work to do."

"Okay, have a great day, Dashie." Quill said a little too happily for Rainbow Dash as she trotted away, tail swaying as she left. Rainbow pulled her head back into the cubicle and shook the sight of Quill’s mareparts from her mind. She’d never thought of seeing any pony’s parts, but suddenly a new appreciation for higher tails was worth more than a little teasing.

Dashie? Who the flock does she think she is? And a random invite to a party for me and AJ? Can we say suspicious? I'll talk it over with AJ and see what she thinks. And what’s with her soft tail swishing, like she was flirting with, me? She rolled her eyes and collected her thoughts  pushed them aside with thoughts of wearing a Wonderbolt uniform. Rainbow stacked all her paperwork into one pile then grabbed from the top. "Let's get this over with."




Three o’clock came by faster than she wanted and she wasn't even halfway done with her work. She was nudged awake by a yellow wing and a giggle from a mare she didn’t think to look at. She stretched and shook a page stuck to the side of her face loose. "Flock it, I'll start my laps now."

Getting what she considered completed paperwork into the proper boxes took a few minutes and her uncompleted work went back to her mail slot, three pages left. Flying out the nearest window she landed on the roof.  She took a deep breath and flew a few hundred feet up, moved the clouds into a formation that was commonly used for exercise, and began her laps.

40 laps in the last three minutes-ish and I'm not even breaking a sweat. Maybe I should speed up? Pumping her wings faster she felt the air rushing by her, pulling against her mane and tugging at her tail as it resisted her efforts to push through it. The sound in her ears was almost blissful. No other noise could bother her at the moment, her thoughts drifted back to laying on the bed with Applejack last night and opening up to her. The closeness she felt had surpassed anything any stallion had ever offered her and felt more fulfilling too.

Then there was the part with her last orgasm. Screaming the name of my best friend; what was that all about? Why her name while I was fantasizing a stalling rutting me? I love her, but is it really that deep?

A light flashing from below her caught her attention and she descended with the same speed she was flying. The roof of the building sped at her at dangerous speeds, adrenaline was pumping through her body and made and world slow down as she neared 50 feet away and looked at the stallion holding a beacon widened his eyes, then open his wings ready, to jump back. She turned her body and banked in a full 360, wrapping her contrail onto itself, as she pulled her wings and skidded to a stop two feet in front of Diamond.

"Sir, taking an early day?" She asked standing and saluting sarcastically.

"No, Rainbow Dash. We need to talk and this isn't the place. Meet me in my office in five minutes."

"Uh, why? I'm doing the laps like you wanted, sir."

"I'm taking three bits from your salary for your language today. Set a better example and see you soon. Get some water and cool off while you can."

Rainbow Dash stuck out her tongue as he went inside. She did have a slightly dry mouth, so she reentered the building and made for the break room.





Applejack had patched Big Mac very well, for a worried sister. He looked silly with bandages across his muzzle and his head had a bandage and tape covering his largest wound, measuring nearly two inches.

"Big Mac, Ah’m sorry ‘bout losing my cool like that. You okay to get back to work?"

He smiled at her and winced from the pain of bandages tugging at his mane and fur. "Eeyup."

"Well, we're an hour behind our chores, so let's get to it."

Granny Smith walked into the kitchen and cocked her head as she saw Big Mac. "What happened to him?"

Applejack and Big Mac chuckled and looked at each other then Granny. "We'll tell ya later. Head on to nap now, less'n ya wanna do our chores?"

Granny smiled and turned back to the den. “Smart alec whippersnappers, just lucky they know Ah’m a might bit tuckered out…” she mumbled as she left.

"Okay, Big Mac, back to your chores."

"Eeyup."






Walking into Diamond’s office, Rainbow Dash looked at the pitch black stallion sitting at his desk. His dark coat almost blended into the brick wall behind him as he pushed a stack of papers aside and gestured for Rainbow Dash to take a seat opposite him at his desk.

"Okay, Diamond," she huffed, "what's the deal now?"

"Rainbow Dash, I'm writing you up."

"What? Why the flock are you writing me up? I'm the best employee the company's ever had! No pony alive is better than me when it comes to weather control! Or anything else for that matter."

"You're a hothead, Rainbow Dash, and it's detrimental to your position as manager. You are arrogant, brash, and cocky; more than any other pegasus in the city. If there were a couple others, maybe we’d let it pass with a few more warnings, but this isn’t a large city."

"But-" Diamond held up a hoof as he continued speaking calmly.

"You are the best at what you put your mind to, Rainbow Dash. You also are your own worst enemy. You are this close to losing your position," he motioned from the desk a short distance up, "or taking an extended unpaid leave."

Rainbow Dash sat in place in front of his desk frowning; waiting for him to finish. "You see, Miss Dash, your personal life and professional life are none of my business or that of any other pony. Let me get that out of the way right now. This is about your attitude and personality, before you start claiming that as a defense.

"Over the past few months you've saved Equestria a half dozen times with your friends and since then you've become so lax in your duties that you've lost your work ethic and the respect of your flock when it comes to the job, nay, obligation of weather control. If you need to take a day off from now on, and it's not about actually saving our world, you have to talk to me or corporate and write us a letter as well."

"But-"

"Do we have an understanding, Miss Dash?"

"Mister Diamond. I know I have branches and confidence and all that,” she waved a hoof dismissively, everypony tells me that all the time. But, I deserve a chance here. I’d love to see your white mane whipping a cloud or two and see what it’s-"

"Miss Dash, I am done speaking with you," he said placing his hooves on his desk loudly, "you are being written up and fined three bits as I stated earlier plus a full half day’s bits because you were half a shift late today,” he narrowed his eyes. “I expect you to be professional in your duties, the same as any other pony in any of their jobs. Two more infractions and I will have a corporate representative here for that meeting. Good evening."

Rainbow Dash growled and stomped out of the room slamming the door behind her startling the few Pegasi that were left on the floor. She rolled her eyes and shrugged, smirking confidently as she flew out of the building she couldn't fight the feeling this was more personal than professional.





Rainbow Dash hovered outside the farmhouse and knocked on the door loudly after running a hoof through her messy mane. From inside she heard Granny shouting. "Apple Bloom, get the door 'fore they break it down."

"Alright, Granny," Apple Bloom shouted as her hoof steps approached the door. "Who is it?"

"Uh, Apple Bloom? It's Rainbow Dash." A few seconds passed before the lock clicked and the door opened slightly, with Apple Bloom peeking out.

"What'dya want now?" Apple Bloom asked flatly.

"I-I wanna see Applejack for a minute, please."

"She ain't here. Go away," she said as she shut the door and locked it.

From inside, Rainbow Dash heard a short conversation.

"Who was it?"

"Some salespony tryin' to get us to buy a toaster."

"Well why'd ya send 'em on their way? We can always use a good toaster."

"I'm goin' upstairs Granny."

"Okay young'n, see ya round three, when Ah wakes up."

"Oh, flock it," Rainbow said as she flew up to Applejack's window and looked in to see if she was there. She isn’t here, Rainbow mumbled. She tried a couple other windows before finding Applejack, in the bathroom. Landing outside the window quietly she perched on the roof peeking in to watch her friend looking at the mirror making faces.

Applejack made a pout, a frown, and a large smile that would impress Pinkie Pie, then let her mane down. Rainbow Dash felt her heart beating faster as she saw the long flowing blonde mane of her lover fall to her sides, past her knees. Even though she couldn't hear what Applejack was saying to the mirror she imagined it was something about her chores or apples.

What happened next surprised Rainbow.

Applejack turned a picture of herself and Rainbow Dash, taken after Rainbow had technically won the Iron Pony contest, kissed it, then set it back on the sink. Grabbing a comb, she started to sing and brush her mane, the sound barely audible, but a country song nonetheless. Normally it would mean nothing to watch another mare brush their mane, but this time Rainbow couldn't stop looking. Applejack began to twist her mane in a few ways before putting one of Apple Bloom's bows in her hair, a giggle into her hoof, then she took it out and leaned her head on her hooves, staring at the photo.

With a snap of her head, Applejack let her hair down and tucked the photo into her mane as she went to the door. Opening it, Rainbow saw Apple Bloom and made the logical guess it was her turn to use the bathroom. Applejack rubbed the back of her head with an awkward look and kicked the out of view bow further under the sink.

The mare left the room and closed the door behind her. The filly went to the toilet, squated, then Apple Bloom stopped and screamed as she looked out the window. Rainbow Dash had been seen and froze in shock, paralyzed with fear at the scream. She waved her hooves and shook her head no, the door flew open and Apple Bloom ran out of the room as Applejack, wearing a loose towel holding her mane went galloping through the bathroom and through the window.

The real world and temporary terror made Rainbow stumble back as Applejack went crashing through the window, forehooves first, tackling the cyan mare before she could fly away.

"...Dash?" They locked eyes as Rainbow tried to smile as they plummeted to the ground. Opening her wings she locked Applejack in her legs and spun around breaking their fall as best she could. They landed with a thud, Rainbow screamed shortly as pain shot through her back and the full weight multiplied thrice over of Applejack landed on her.

Applejack bounced off and landed on her side unharmed, slightly shocked at what she’d done. “Rainbow Dash?” she frowned as she got to her hooves and looked at the pegasus, holding just below her ribs and gasping short breaths. “Ya okay?”

A few seconds passed before Rainbow nodded. Applejack stomped her hoof heavily onto the ground. “What the hay is wrong with you?! Peepin’ on my little sis goin’ potty, Ah thought more’a you,” she shouted as she scolded.

Rainbow sat up, wincing. She flexed her wings and folded them to her sides as she took a better seating position."AJ, I know what you might think, but I wasn't trying to peep on Apple Bloom."

"So you was peepin' on me?"

"No. Well yes... But, I wasn't trying to, I just-"

"Applejack? You okay down there? You catch that peeper?" Apple Bloom called from the damaged window.

"Ahm fine, it’s all taken care of, just unlock the door so Ah can get back inside."

"'Kay," the filly called down, “after just a minute, ya know.”

“Just hurry up and don’t ferget ta wipe.”

“Applejack! Ah know how to go potty!”

Rainbow snickered and mumbled. “Heh, potty.”

Applejack shot the recovering mare a glare. “Just get to it,” she said loudly then turned her attention back to the other mare who opened her wings and started to hover away.

"Rainbow Dash, you come down here right now," Applejack demanded. Landing cautiously Rainbow Dash averted her gaze, looking back she noticed glass on her back and shook, trying to get it all out. "Now, ya done messed up. All the ponies I love are havin' a bad day all around and you owe me a new window. Shatter resistant, ya know"

"I know, and I’m glad you got those enchanted windows,” Rainbow smiled nervously then sighed. “Look, I'm sorry, AJ. I really wanted to see you after the day I had and you can't come to my house so..."

"Yeah, Ah get it. But you coulda just knocked. Flyin’ and peepin’ ain’t a right way ta say hi."

"I did knock, AJ! Apple Bloom said you were gone and I was a toaster salespony, but I knew you weren’t in the orchard or farm."

"She did that? I can't say Ah blame her though, she's going through a lot. That don't make it right, but Ah think yer even. So,” Applejack asked with a smirk, “you wanna come up?"

Rainbow smiled  and nodded and then spent the remaining time talking about Applejack flying through the window like a supermare until Apple Bloom unlocked the door and opened it to see Rainbow Dash and Applejack standing outside the doorway looking at her. "Uh, heya Rainbow. Applejack. Ah'm just gonna..." with that she galloped back upstairs.

"C'mon in, Sugarplum," Applejack said as she led Rainbow through the house up to her room. "So, how much did you see when you were peepin' on me?" Dash turned a light shade of purple in her cheeks.

"Well, I saw your mane down and you playing with it."

"Oh, you like my mane down? Should Ah keep it that way?" Applejack asked flirtatiously.

"It's your mane, do whatever you want."

"So, what happened to you today?" Dash filled her in on her less than stellar day so far. Her invitation to go to the party was the highlight, though.

"Rainbow, Ah think it'd be great to go to a party! We don't have to say we're together, if ya don't want."

"Well,” Rainbow hovered over Applejack’s bed, “I think everypony there knows, and if they don't who cares?"

With a giggle, Applejack hopped onto the bed and kissed Rainbow on the cheek, sending a deep purple shade across her face. While Rainbow smirked goofily, Applejack saw onthe edge of the bed and took her turn to fill her in on her day.

"Wow, so, Big Mac and Cheerilee? I never wouldn't taken them for that couple. And in front of a whole class?! Way to go Big Mac!" Rainbow laughed.

"No, Dashing. That's bad."

"What? Why? Everypony's gotta learn someday."

"Not like that! Watchin' my brother rut some mare in heat just cuz of some love poison ain't no excuse."

“‘Some mare’? You know Cheerilee, AJ. She’s not some whorse or tail lifter for bits, she loves her job and wouldn’t do anything to hurt the children. It was the enchantment, not her. You could use a shot of that potion to see what it’s like.”

"Rainbow Dash, Ah am shocked and appalled," Applejack said with a certain amusement, "Ah don't think the world is ready for what I’d do under that kinda spell."

"Well, technically we haven't done much yet. But, we've got time tonight right?"

"Rainbow, Sugarplum. Ah ain't in no mood for foolin' around tonight. It's been one heck of a day and I just wanna rest, hours from now when it’s time ta sleep, we can see if nature wants ta happen."

"Okay, c'mon then." Rainbow flew to the bed and opened the blankets behind Applejack, then patted the mattress.

"Sugarplum, Ah don't think-"

"Good. Then let's take a nap, together," Rainbow said as she lay in bed, snuggling into the pillow with a comfortable smile and trilling hum.

"Sugarplum," Applejack sighed and smiled, "I ain't gonna win am I?"

Using her best Big Mac voice Rainbow replied. "Nope." Then giggled covering her mouth with her hoof.

Applejack climbed next to Rainbow Dash, lay down, and looked at her. "Rainbow Dash?"

"Yeah, AJ?"

"Can you say it again?"

"You mean how great I am?"

"No, you know what I mean."

"I-I'm not ready to say those words right now, Applejack." They smiled at each other and kissed as they moved closer. Rainbow wrapped her free wing around Applejack and they nuzzled each other as the fell asleep.





The sound of a bell ringing startled Applejack awake. She scrambled out of the covers and fell to her chest on the floor with a heavy thump. “Oh no! Ah slept another day away! Dagnabit,” she snorted loudly in frustration as she got to her hooves and gathered her hair ties and hat. She was out the door and stopped quickly, sliding.

Her ears twitched and she turned around, walking back to her doorway and looked it with a confused look. Rainbow Dash was sleeping on her belly, hind knees under her… facing away from Applejack. Applejack gulped and walked softly to the sleeping mare, raised a foreleg, then gently moved the rainbow tail aside. Sucking in a breath sharply she looked at the slightly open vulva of her marefriend.

“Applejack!” Granny called upstairs loudly. Rainbow’s wings flapped and she was in the air as Applejack tumbled backwards with a grunt onto her haunches. “Time ta eat, get yer lazy hindquarters down here, and ya got double chores tonight fer takin’ the day off.”

Rainbow looked down at the other mare. “Why’re you covering your head? Let’s go eat?”

“Ah didn’t know if you were gonna buck me,” she replied and got to her four hooves, adjusting her hat onto her head.

“Why would I buck you? Whatever, let’s get some food, I’m starving to death,” Rainbow stated as she hovered over and past Applejack. “Hurry up, lazy bones, we’ve got stuff to do tonight.”

“Guh, uh! Lazy?! I, but, you…”

“Yeah, when ya learn to talk, send me a letter,” she giggled as she turned down the hall.

”Why you,” Applejack grumbled as she chased after Rainbow.

...

Hours and the evening passed, Rainbow twitched and looked out the windows several dozen times, but stayed by Applejack through the evening, even taking a quiet walk through the orchard. Finally, they went back to Applejack’s room, cuddled up, and went back to sleep.

…

They both groaned and stretched as they heard the rooster crow. "C'mon lover, time to get up." Rainbow didn't move. That mares out to the world. It ain't gonna cut it in this house.  “Dashalicious”, Applejack whispered into Dash's ear as she reached around her bed mates body, "Sweetie? Gumdrop?" Rainbow Dash smiled and moved her head a bit. "Sugarplum? Time to wake up," Applejack cooed sweetly as she nuzzled Dash's neck.

"Mmm. I love you so much, AJ," she mumbled with a snore. Applejack pushed herself up in bed and looked at the sleeping cyan mare beside her.

Ah don't believe it. She does! With a giggle she hopped out of bed and bounced like Pinkie Pie for a few hops as she smiled just as wide. Applejack stopped hopping when a she heard snicker.

"Yer up AJ, good. Time for breakfast," Big Mac said through the door. His hooves clopping away in the distance then down stairs with a distant yawn.

Giving a final nudge to Rainbow Dash she left the heavy sleeping mare and went to use the bathroom and eat.

Breakfast was a simple meal of oatmeal and scrambled eggs, mixed vegetables, and orange juice. "OJ, Big Mac? Really?"

"Ya know we can't live off our own product, Applejack," he said knowledgeably, "now eat up."

"Ya gotta make one more plate."

"Apple Bloom doesn't get up for another hour. It'll be cold."

"It's for Dash." Applejack said softly. Big Mac stopped stirring the oatmeal on the stove and looked back at her. His face was unbandaged and the scratch blended into his coat. "She slept over last night. Just slept over."

He chuckled and went back to stirring, then made an extra plate of food, setting it in front of Applejack with a wink. "I'm just gonna-" Applejack motioned upstairs as she picked the extra plate up in her mouth. Big Mac nodded and started eating.





"Rainbow Dash, Spitfire’s here!" Rainbow Dash jumped out of bed wings at the ready and in a position to fly straight ahead as she looked into Applejack’s eyes. She huffed, but relaxed and yawned.

"AJ, what time is it?"

"Celestia just raised the sun."

"Oh my gosh,” she sighed, falling back into the bed, “no pony should even be alive this early. Wake me in an hour or fifteen." She tried to cover herself but Applejack hopped on her and pushed her out of bed with a hard push from her muzzle onto the wooden floor. "Ow, AJ. What the feather was that for?"

"Ya know, Sugarplum, Big Mac went’n made you breakfast. And it'd go a long way to show your appreciation to him and yer boss eat up and get ta work early. Fer once," Applejack said with a smirk.

"Ugh, fine. I'm gonna do it but, only for you. That's what… lovers do for each other, right?" They smiled at each other as Rainbow grabbed her plate and walked to the door. "Ya comin' to bekfusht ur wat?"





Rainbow Dash arrived to work just in time to be an hour early. I swear if I have to be up this early every again I'll go crazy. she yawned loudly. Landing on the building she had to dig into her saddlebags to find the door key. I've never even used this thing. I might have left it at home somewhere. Just as she was about to leave for her house she found it wrapped in an old bundle receipt that she glanced at. This is dated five years ago. I really haven't ever used this key.

Walking into the offices, it was almost peaceful. The opposite of how it would be in a few hours, with a dozen ponies clopping and flying through the area. Turning on the lights and thanking some egghead in Baltimare for making electricity a thing, she gathered her paperwork and started catching up.

An hour later the hustle and bustle of the office was in full swing as Pegasi flew from room to room, others shouted questions at others from across the floor, and Rainbow snored quietly at her desk. Rainbow finally finished her paperwork and got her order sheets from the clerk.

Looking them over she sighed and almost face-hoofed but just smiled. I have more to do than any other pony cuz I'm the boss. Whatever. I can't lose my cool and I need to earn the flocks respect back. Just do it, Rainbow Dash. Show 'em why you're the best in Equestria.

With that, she stuffed her orders into her saddlebag and trotted to the roof. She greeted her co-workers and other Pegasus as she passed worked and didn't mention once how great she was, to show her humbleness. She got to work busting clouds, and didn't take a break or nap at all until she was done.

Admiring her work she did a fly-by to make sure every cloud was in place or dispersed. Nodding at her handiwork she looked at the time and laughed. It only took her two hours.

Time for second breakfast, then the rest of the day free. she made herself a nice cloud and landed on it, laid down, then quickly fell asleep. Waking, refreshed and eager, she went to find Applejack to have an early lunch in town. My first real date with AJ. She smiled with determination as she flew to Sweet Apple Acres.
> A first for everything
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Arriving at Sweet Apple Acres, Rainbow Dash did a lap around the perimeter and saw Applejack with a bushel on her back, she smiled and turned, heading for the barn to wait.

Applejack trotted up several minutes later with a bushel of apples on her back and a soft smile gracing her muzzle.  "Dashing, now to what do I owe the pleasure?"

Rainbow was leaning against the barn door with a piece of wheat in her mouth, looking down, nonchalantly. "Jeez, makin' me wait forever.  I almost thought you didn't see me flying."

Applejack smirked.  "Sugarplum, ya got a reason fer holdin' me up, or are ya gonna help me out with a real day's work?"

"Uh, neither," Rainbow said, looking worried at the prospect of farm work, "I'm already done working for the day and I wanted lunch.  With you.  Today.  Now. Uh, yeah."

"Dashing, ya got a way with words.  Ah'll be ready in a few, just gotta put away my stuff and let Big Mac or Granny know.  Ya wait here and no hidin' or pranks."

"Uh," the last comment took Rainbow Dash off guard, "you got it, mare."  Really?  That's the best I could come up with? She did smile in that way, and look at her walking away.  I haven't seen a rump that nice since...  Stop it, brain!





Applejack and Rainbow went into town gossiping, sharing a laugh occassionally. Rainbow, hovering, led the way to their plae of lunch. "Ole Deli, a simple place to eat simple food," Rainbow quoted, "they better have good grub from what I heard about this place. Applejack eyed the front of the building warily, but followed Rainbow as she entered. Rainbow Dash picked a nice table by the front window before they scanned the menu for their lunch.  "This place doesn't have any lunch specials?  Look at this, nothing under five bits!  What're we doing at this fancy schmancy place for lunch?"

"Now, Rainbow Dash.  Don't get all picky, if it's the price, Ah'll buy."

"Heck no!  No way my dates payin' for herself," Rainbow said then felt herself blush deeply.

"Dashing, yer turning purple again," she chuckled loudly, "so, this' a date for real I reckon?" Applejack said smiling as she raised her menu.

"Yeah, whatever.  Can we just order now?"  Rainbow Dash started to move her wings to hide her face.

"I wanna try this here Tofu and Blue Cheese caper burger with sprouts, and a soup.  What're you havin'?"

"I don't know, AJ.  Just pick something so we can eat and go."

"Now, ya think you'd never been out ta eat before. What's goin' on, lassie? Embarrassed ta be out with me in public?"

"No, it's just that I called you my date, out loud, and everypony's looking at me." Applejack looked around the restaurant.

"Ah don't see a pair'v eyes on ya, save fer the ones at this here table. Now, stop bein' silly and sit up and pick somethin' ta eat."

The waiter arrived, a Pegasus mare with a yellow mane and lime coat.  "Hi, I'm Lime, and I'll be your waitress today.  What can I get you?"

Oh gosh she has such a sweet voice.  "She's gonna order," Rainbow mumbled while pointing to Applejack, blushing still.

"Aright, Ah'm takin the number fourteen, and she's having the number two."

"Number two, AJ?"  Rainbow asked, "I want the number one!"

"Nah, she said I get to choose, so she's gettin' the number two.  Thanks, Lime."

"I'll put that in right away.  Can I get you some water or juice?"

"Cranberry and apple juice for me," Rainbow said.  Applejack nodded in agreement and Lime left to fill their order.

Rainbow Dash relaxed a bit over the next couple minutes and scanned the room, looking to see if they were being watched.  Lime brought their drinks quickly, looking between them and raising an eyebrow and with an expression that was knowing of something. Before Applejack or Rainbow could ask, Lime was turning her attention to another table.

Sipping their juice they didn't talk, which made their time waiting for their meal feel longer and slightly awkward. Several minutes later, two plates of food were placed in front of them by Lime and they thanked her quickly, glad for a break in the silence.

Applejack looked at her burger and smiled then smelled her soup.  "Mmm.  Tomata bisque."

Rainbow looked at hers and smiled too.  A black bean burrito with spicy peppers and cream sauce was steaming on her plate, a fresh caesar salad with extra cheese to the side.  She looked at Applejack and gestured for Applejack to start.  Picking up her burger between her hooves, she took a big bite and smiled as the cheese dripped from her mouth onto the plate.  Rainbow's eyes widened as she looked at her meal.  She grabbed a fork and cut a large piece of burrito off and ate it.  She shuddered as the flavors danced on her tongue, making her smile contently.

It was the best thing she'd eaten in a while and it was going to be worth every bit she was going to pay for it.  The rest of their meal the only noises they made were the sounds of chewing, slurping, and chomping as they gobbled their meals loudly.  Finishing their meal at roughly the same time they sat back in their chairs and sighed loudly rubbing their bellies.

"What was that? I hear a filly cheering because I won, I finished first."

"Yeah?  Ya even taste yer meal, second place?"

"Kinda, I'll taste it when I burp, number fourteen.  The important thing is, I won," Rainbow said sighing, slouching in her chair slightly.

"Next time we'll make it official, with Pinkie as the judge."

"Deal.  Now, where's the-"

Lime came up and gave them their bill as Rainbow was finishing her sentence.

"12 bits?!?  For two lunches!  You're lucky this is a date, lady," Rainbow said as she reached under her wing for her bit bag and counted the needed amount, dropped the bits, on the table, and hovered out of the restaurant alone.

Applejack nodded to the waitress and tossed two bits into the pile as a tip. "Ya did real good, Ah'll tell my friends about this place."

"Thanks, have a nice day ladies," Lime said with a genuine smile as she collected the bits, "Have a great night too," she shouted at Rainbow Dash, with a wink.

The pegasus slumped as she waited. "Everypony's teasing me," she whispered as Applejack caught up and trotted ahead. "Thanks for lunch, Sugar.  I enjoyed that meal, even if it was a might pricey."

"Expensive  you mean.  I coulda taken you to Hayburger's for lunch, twice."

"That's not a place ta take a date of my quaility," Applejack tipped her hat up and smirked. "Anyway, it don't matter cuz Ah was with you.  Thanks again, but I gotta get back to work and I know you got some stunt flyin' workout ta do.  Go show 'off, Dashing."  Applejack hopped up and with a kiss on the cheek, she turned to start back to the farm before looking back.  "You're pretty when your cheeks are purple."

Rainbow blinked and flew up into the sky with a growing smile.





Rainbow returned to the weather department and went to her office. She looked over her shoulder as she entered and switched on a light as a couple Pegasi looked quizzically at her.  I haven't used my office for weeks.  I am a bad example. It's no wonder the flock doesn't respect my work etiquette.    Entering the office she was greeted with the usual brick walls and a desk cluttered with dust, paperwork she'd put off months ago, and a mildew scent that reminded her of something she probably left too long in the room.  Fuck me with a quill.  I can't believe I work in a dump like this.  

Rainbow went to cleaning and organizing her office.  Opening the dusty shades and window, dust blew around her office, making herself cough heavily.  She swept, mopped, and dusted the whole office herself with the door open, to the surprise of many ponies that passed and looked in.  Taking a better chair from one of the cubicles, she swapped it with the one at her desk and took a seat with a sigh, then spun in place.  I have an office.  I've had an office but never used it.  One point to Rainbow Dash for earning their respect.

"I'd better get to work, I'm sure I've got something that needs to get done in this place."  She went to Diamonds office and knocked respectfully.

"Come in," he called flatly.

"Diamond.  I'm ready to be a better leader to my flock; I've done my work and taken a lunch for the day.  I-I need something to do."

He looked up and a hint of a smile showed. "Paperwork, Miss Dash.  Finish your paperwork."

"Already done.  I've also cleaned my office top to bottom."

Raising an eyebrow Diamond looked at Rainbow Dash.  "Well, you've surprised me a little. However, as a weather manager, you need to find something to do yourself. Set the example as there's always something that need fixing. I would love for you to spend a full day at work, doing actual work.

"I know, and I am.  It's just," Rainbow rubbed the back of her neck trying to find the courage, "I need some guidance, and you're the best manager I know."  Diamond raised both eyebrows now, surprise evident.  "You see, I know I got manager because I was the best out there but, I don't apply myself to my actual job and I know I can be better.  I can be the best with your help."

Diamond lowered his eyebrows and smiled widely for the first time that day.  "Miss Dash, I am impressed at your attitude and behavior today, as well as your humility. Close the door, we have a lot to discuss."





Rainbow landed outside Applejack's window and knocked, hoping she'd open it.  It was still early in the evening, but she wanted to see her marefriend.  When there wasn't an answer she tried looking over the orchard and inside the barn to no avail.  Resigning herself she went to the door and knocked.

Applebloom opened the door and stood still, looking at her.  At least this time she doesn't look like she wants to hurt me.  "Lemme see AJ?"

"No, she went to the barn to do some work and Ah ain't seen her.  Bye."  With that, Applebloom shut the door.

"The barn, eh?" Rainbow smirked confidently as she flew to the barn to find it empty of ponykind. A grin formed as she flew inside, opened the door to the apple cellar and listened.

The distant echo of hooves tickled her ears as she flew down the stairs quickly, slowing as the dancing rainbows could be seen as she peeked behind the barrels leading to the other room.

Crawling inside, she heard light breathing as she looked at the bed where Applejack was asleep, holding a book. Rainbow snickered at the sight. “Egghead,” she whispered with a roll of her eyes. She watched Applejack sleep then noticed the book.  Wait, is that Daring Do and the Quest for the Sapphire Statue?!  Rainbow then looked at the bookshelf excitedly, her smile fell. Nothing about the Wonderbolts, Daring Do, or anything cool.  Except me, that is.

Landing and taking a seat on the edge of the bed, Rainbow brushed her hoof against Applejack’s mane. The soft flowing hair yielded to the pressure and Rainbow felt something.  Pulling it out carefully, she noticed it was a rolled up picture, the same picture from before.

She is so sappy. Rainbow thought as she traced a heart over the two of them with her hoof. Placing the photo aside, she leaned in to kiss Applejack as the scent of fresh dirt, sweat, and sweet apples filled her senses.  What was supposed to be a wake up peck on the cheek suddenly turned into Rainbow taking Applejack’s face in her hooves as she started to passionately kiss her lips.

Startling awake, Applejack pushed with her front legs as hard as she could at the unknown assaulter.  With a grunt Rainbow was thrown back but stopped before she impacted the barrels with a hard flap of her wings. "Oh, Dashing, I'm so sorry!  Are you okay?"

"AJ? I was just trying to be more romantic, like you said you wanted.  I thought kissing you awake was gonna be nice," she rubbed a hoof along her other foreleg.

"Oh, it was Sugarplum.  Ah just wasn't expecting anypony, is all."

“Nah, it’s cool. Hey, how’s about we relax and celebrate?” Rainbow dashed to get the mug from the other room.

"Now, what are we celebratin', and what with?"

"I got a lotta respect at work and had lunch with the second toughest mare in Equestria, in the same day.  Pretty awesome if you ask me," she said with a laugh as she waved a hoof to the tapped barrel. Applejack narrowed her eyes, but shrugged as it wasn’t uncommon to tap a barrel to sample and for Granny to forget about it.

Rainbow filled her mug and drank it quickly, filling it again and passing it to Applejack. With a giggle, Applejack held her cup to Rainbow as she refilled her cup. "AJ, this special cider has alcohol in it?  Doesn't it?"

"Sugar, it's got lotsa alcohol. We've been fermenting this barrel for two years alone.  From that barrel in the corner to that one on the end over there twenty years, down to two.  We sell 'em ta big spenders, for a hefty fee, in them hoity toity rich places like Canterlot. What that means, is that we can not, not, drink from these here other barrels, ever. Understand?"

"What if I get you to hit me into another barrel?" Rainbow asked seriously.

"If Ah was to do that, you wouldn't be leavin' here without a doctor."  Rainbow narrowed her eyes as Applejack said that.

She might be serious.  This is her family's livelihood after all.  "Don't worry, I was just joking AJ,” she waved a dismissive hoof, “don't be so serious."

"Ah have ta be. Rainbow Dash, don't let me ever catch you drinkin' from these again. This here barrel would sell for 1,600 bits, on sale,” she tapped the mahogany barrel lightly.

"1,600 BITS? That's insane!"

"No, that's some good cider," Applejack said as she finished her mug and wiped her mouth.

The next hour was spent sharing the special cider and joking, telling stories, and flirting with each other until Rainbow Dash couldn't stand on her own hooves anymore. "AmpleJack?  Why... Why, uh, why do you say 'bucking' and us Pegasi say feathering?'"

"Rainglow Dashing.  Ah jus dunno.  Maybe.  Maybe, on accounta y'all flyin' are always like birds and a flock like ya say.  And us earthers are always buckin' cuz we ain't flyin' up there in the sky like ya beautiful birds, soarin all over."

"Soarin... What a buckin’ prick.  I cannow know what I saw in 'im.  He was a... A jerk, and only wanted to rut always, and wasn’t even good. And, like, he even unsheathed during a dinner cuz the waitress was flirting!"  Rainbow Dash laughed from her spot on the floor.  Applejack was sitting a few feet away, listing as she chuckled.

"So, y'all was eatin' and he poked out?  That's halar-hilr-hol. Uhh, funny as heck!"

"Oh, it gets better,” Rainbow rolled to her belly and grinned, “we were at a restaurant with dozens of ponies around us.  Some waiting outside for his autograph. He couldn’t get away and everypony there saw his awkwardly smell floppy Soarin’ hangin’ about,” she fell to her side again in laughter with Applejack crawling to her and laughing with her.





Waking up with Rainbow Dash’s wings was a delightful feeling as Applejack stretched her legs and rolled off the bed. Standing was a mistake as the high quality cider had taken its toll, she felt her head throb and her stomach turning almost as fast as the room twisted in opposing directions before her eyes.  She started to tip forward, then hopped back into bed and laid on her side.  Oh, don't throw up.  Don't throw up.  Don't throw up.  Oh this was more fun before I blacked out.  Scooting closer to Rainbow, Applejack moved a wing back over her and she fell back asleep.





Rainbow Dash woke up and stretched as she felt Applejack’s warm body against her.  Sitting up she smiled as the headache throbbed, yet filled her with memories from before they had fallen asleep.  The room was very dim, as the crystals had almost all turned off.  Rainbow climbed over Applejack and crawl out of the room to find a place to relieve herself.  Opening the main cellar door she was blinded by the midday sun. "Oh. Buck me."

Rushing back down into the other room Rainbow shoved Applejack and tried to wake her up.  "We're late for work!  Get up!"

"Dash, it's saturday. Ain't no work to be done. Come back to bed."

"Saturday?  It's already after sun up!"

"So?  Go to sleep.  Ain't nothin' goin' on."

"But, we have that dinner party tonight!"

"That's tonight," Applejack said as she sat up in bed. Her head was still punishing her, but everything else had stopped spinning. "Right now, let's sleep off this hangover."

"I feel fine. I've gotta pee, AJ.  C'mon!"  Rainbow started bouncing her rear legs.

"Ugh, bouncin' ain't gonna make it better.  C'mon, let's get you to the outhouse."  Turning off the gems as they crawled out, Applejack re-hid the entrance behind barrels of apples.  As she turned to look at Rainbow Dash the light of the midday sun made her headache worse.

Shielding her eyes with her hat, she followed Rainbow Dash outside and shut the heavy wooden door.  Rainbow Stretched her wings and legs, then hovered a few feet from the ground as Applejack slouched and walked to the house.

Opening the door and going upstairs was the hardest chore she had to do all week, while Rainbow followed close behind talking about how much fun she’d had the previous night.  Applejack let Rainbow into the bathroom first, then after her turn as she went to her room and climbed back into bed, falling asleep again.





"Applejack?  Applejack.  Wake up.  I've let you sleep enough.  C'mon sleepy pony.  It's lunch time and I'm hungry."  Rainbow Dash started pulling and shoving Applejack until she woke up with a loud yawn.  Stretching for what felt like the best time ever, she rolled out of bed onto the floor with the pillow in her mouth and landed on it with a small smile.

"Ah don't wanna get up yet. It's mah day off," she grumbled.

"Applejack," Rainbow whined this time, "I wanna get lunch with you again," she said as she poked Applejack.

"Can't ya get some grub from the fridge?"

"I want real food, out there! I can't stay cooped up all day.  C'mon AJ, let's go do somethin'.  Race you to town," Rainbow challenged landing in a squat as her starting position.






"Ain't no race to get going right now.  Ah'm still wakin up, so go get me some tea to start my day," Applejack still hadn't opened her eyes.

"Fine.  Sheesh, I never thought you'd be this lazy on your day off."

"Ain't lazy, relaxin.  You do this all the time ev'ry day."  The comment took Rainbow by surprise as she stammered, trying to think of something to say.

"Well, not today!  And I'm gonna go out and, uh, I guess I'll see ya later then, sleepy tail."

Applejack rolled over, blinked her eyes open a few times, yawned, and pushed herself up on her forelegs.  "Alright.  Ah’m up.  What're we doin, Miss Rushing."

"Well, I'm hungry and my head still hurts so, I think a few sandwiches and a salad is what we need. C'mon!"

Rainbow Dash went out the window and began flying laps waiting as Applejack exited the house with a bright smile and looking refreshed after a few minutes of getting ready and grabbing a fritter on the way out the door.  "AJ, that was the longest pee ever!"

"Well, Ah had to comb my mane and wash my face, what’dya expect?" Applejack snickered as she trotted toward town with Rainbow Dash flying close beside her.

"You don't brush your mane."

"Ah do, you just don't notice."  Rainbow smiled at that remark but didn't get a chance to retort. "So, Sugarplum, where we eatin'? I could eat a whole bale’a hay, I'm so hungry."

"Ha-ha.  Let’s go to The Salad Bar.  They have great build your owns."

"Sounds good ta me. I'm buyin'."

"Fine by me," Rainbow smiled as she began to fly faster.

"Then tomorrow, Ah’m choosin' where we eat."  Applejack smiled as she began to speed up.  Turning to a full gallop, Applejack took the lead to a surprised Rainbow Dash who quickly followed the racing mare ahead of her.

"Hey, no flyin' ta win!  That's cheatin'!"

"You didn't say anything about that when you started running!"  Rainbow called as she zipped overhead into town, leaving a rainbow contrail and a plume of dust in her wake.  Coughing ponies glared at Rainbow as she landed and waited at the restaurant.  Can't beat the amazing Rainbow Dash.

Arriving at The Salad Bar, Applejack coughed from the still settling dust and ignored her gloating mate.  The Salad Bar was plenty busy but another meal they enjoyed together. “What’s that? Wha-wha-what?! You gotta pick up the pace if you wanna get a close second someday, Slow-jack!”

"Yeah, yeah.  Rainbow Dash, you're gonna lose big some day and I'll make you get a hooficure in front of the whole town."

"Ain't gonna happen AJ.  I'm the best and you know it! Now, I need a victory meal. Cuz, ya know, I won," Rainbow flew a loop and into a seat outside the restaurant. Applejack rolled her eyes and scoffed.

"Dashing, I got somewhere ta be, here’s ten bits, buy what ya want.  I'll see ya at the party tonight at Quills."

"What, you’re bein’ a sore loser?” She sighed as the bits hit the tabletop. “You seriously wanna go to that party?  Whatever, I'll see you there just before sundown?"

"It's a date, Sugarplum."  Rainbow waved and waited for the menu when a familiar lime mare approached the table.

“Hey, Rainbow Dash. Where’s AJ going?”

“Off to do chores, probably,” she mumbled.

"Are you okay Rainbow Dash?" Lime asked gently.

"Yeah, I’m fine, just hungover a bit. thanks Lime. Uh,  aren't you supposed to be at work?"

Lime giggled. “I am, I work here on the weekends.”

“Do you ever have a day off?”

“Nope, but I have plenty of free nights this way. The whole town practically starts to shut down at sunset so I get to go home every night before the fun starts.”

“Yeah, me and AJ have a party at Quill’s tonight, I hope it won’t suck.”

Lime leaned close and spoke in a quiet tone. "So, I guess the rumors are true then?  You and AJ are fillyfoolers?"

Rainbow sputtered as she blushed. “What, uh, what’re you talkin’ about? I’m all about the colts…”

"Hey, mares and stallions? You don’t do it by choice. I guess I figured I'd let you know that you're getting attention from a few ponies that'll start making passes at you, both genders."

"Oh really?" Rainbow smiled wryly, "you're one of them?"

"Oh, no. I'm not that kind of mare to break up a new relationship.  But, we'll see in a few months," Lime winked playfully.

"Lime, I don’t have plans past five seconds from now.  AJ and me, we've been through a lot more than any pony else knows and that makes us have a bond that’s special."

Lime said as she wrapped a foreleg around Rainbow. "I haven't seen a couple like you two for a while. I think you're gonna last. I mean, you've got a great foundation that most ponies don't have.  But, there are a few out there that'll test you for the challenge.  Just keep an eye open and watch out for Cloud Kicker.  She's impulsive and could be trouble."

"Yeah, I know about her. Everypony in town does.  If me and AJ do get into a situation like that, I’m sure we'll work it out."

"That's why I know you'll last a while, not many ponies have what you two have.  So, see you there?"

“Where?”


“Quills party, silly,” Lime chirped as her wings ruffled.

“Huh, you’re going too? What happens there?”

“Not much. Drinking, games, snacks, girl talk. We get dressed up and hang out.”


Dressed up, huh?  "Well, I'll see ya tonight then.  I got somewhere ta be."

"Okay, see ya later Rainbow! Hey, wait, you didn’t order any food!” she shouted as she looked at the table and pile of bits. She shrugged and scooped them into her apron. “Thanks for the tip!”





Damn, I better just get ready for this stupid party.  What should I wear?  Why should I have to wear anything?  What about my mane?  Or my tail?   Oh my gosh! What if this is a big coming out party where everypony will know about our relationship and judge us based on how many times we've done it?  Okay, calm down, Rainbow Dash.  Just get to the closet and pick out something nice and brush your mane and put a bow in your tail.  No big deal.  You're gonna rock whatever you wear.





“Welcome to Carousel Boutique, where everything is… Oh, Applejack, my darling.  I haven't seen you in what feels like forever!  Dear, did you brush your mane?!  It's a nice  improvement over, uh, not doing it," Rarity tried to salvage the greeting that was turning sour fast, "so, to what do I owe the honor?"

"Ah need one of yer fancy getups for a little social party Ah’m goin to tonight, and make it snappy."

Rarity gasped, then grinned widely. "Oh, you need a dress!  I am so happy, and you know you've come to the best.  So, tonight?  We haven't a moment to lose. First I have to get you to the spa to get your mane and coat cleaned up then a massage to loosen your skin and a hooficure to show off those lovely hooves you're always hiding beneath all that mud and dirt."

"Rare, Ah just need a dress-"

"And a dress does nothing if it's accented by a messy mare so; go-go-go.  I have to do some designing while you're there, I'll see you in two hours. Just ask for the Rarity’s guest special, they’ll know what to do."





"Oh, Applejack, you look amazing!  I have just the dress for you and you can try it on right now!  Come, come."  Rarity ushered her into a room and helped her change.  With a loud squeal of glee that could have shattered a wine glass, Rarity beamed at her successful evening dress.  "I am just so happy you let me make you over today.  You'll be the bell of the ball!  Now go get yourself a coltfriend and see if he has a brother for me," she snickered as she walked Applejack to the door.

Applejack rolled her eyes and thanked Rarity as she looked at the setting sun.  If I knew this was gonna be such a big deal, I’d have never said yes ta this party.  Next time.





	Graaaarrrgh.  I don't know what to wear and I can't do a thing with my mane! My tail is useless as anything right now...  I can't go to this party with Applejack looking like I always do, I want her to remember this as a special night with her special somepony, not just another night with 'Rainbow Dash.'  "I have to see Rarity," she said as she pressed a hoof to her temple.

Arriving at Rarity’s closer to the party than she should have, Rainbow flew into the shop and stopped right in front of a surprised Rarity, a gust of wind blowing the styled mane back before it fell perfectly back into place.

"Rarity, I have a thing tonight and I need a dress and I don't know what to wear and I need to do my mane and tail but I don't know what to do and I really need your help and I'm asking you for this, please!"

With a sly smirk, Rarity nodded and levitated a dress from a rack to Rainbow. “While I appreciate the rambling of a desperate pony, needing of my skills, Rainbow Dash, I had a feeling you had a ‘thing’ tonight, as such; this will go amazingly with your mane and tail, uh, post a little brush and fluff at the spa. Here’s a coupon, just tell me how it went over, okay?"

"Thank you!"  Dash shouted as she grabbed the dress, hugging it tightly to her chest, then the ticket before she quickly left for the spa.  I can't believe I was so worried.  Get my mane done and get to the party.  Say hi and let them talk about how awesome I look then leave with Applejack in style. I just have to stay calm and remember what Fluttershy said and not to get too nervous. Hide it until it goes away. You can do this, you can do this.

Rainbow landed outside the spa and burst into the doors, skidding to a stop in front of a mare with keys in her mouth. "Ladies, I need a quick mane and tail style!  I got a party to get to in, like, an hour!"

"It's closing time, ma'a-."

"Here’s a coupon and I'll pay double!"

"Locks!” the mare turned and shouted over her shoulder, “you gotta customer! Hurry up!"
> Dinner Party
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Alright, Applejack, this ain't nothing but another party like a hundred others ya been to.  Only this one is just with you Dashing.  Do it for her and be on yer best manners.  Applejack composed herself as she knocked on the door to Quills house.  The sounds inside indicated a few ponies were already there and the music was quiet yet upbeat. Ah hope Ah'm dressed nice enough.

Quill opened the door with a smile then gasped at the mare at her doorstep. A few quick blinks and Quill welcomed Applejack inside to introduce her to the other few ponies that were there. Lime was there, talking with a blue mare at her side as they got some punch.  A pair of stallions nuzzled each other while swaying to the music from the radio. Isn’t that Davenport?  Two mares were sitting at a square dinner table, talking and giggling.

Everyone was wearing nice enough clothes and Applejack didn't feel over dressed, validated that her mane-style was impressive in its own right with a french braid and full of multicolored flowers.  With minimal makeup that highlighted her freckles, she was certainly one of the most attractive mares at the party.

A series of loud, punctuating knocks overshadowed the entire party. "Must be Rainbow Dash," Quill said hurriedly as she galloped for the door.  "Rainbow Dash, oh, Celestia... Uh,” Quill gulped loudly and spoke in a loud whisper. “Come in. Come in,” she cleared her throat and spoke normally. “Applejack's here already."

‘What was that about?’
‘Rainbow Dash is here?’
‘Great, get ready to listen about the 'Wonderbolts.' were some of the things others murmured.

Applejack felt butterflies in her belly as she imagined Rainbow’s reactions to how she was dressed or about her appearance. As she was worrying, a slight tremble began in her knees. Quill walked into the room and stepped aside. The other ponies had gathered in the main room and gasped at the rainbow maned mare that stood before them.

Rainbow looked to Applejack and smiled brashly at Applejack. “Hey,” she said softly to the orange mare, “you’re gonna catch bugs like that,” she said as she walked with a sway in her hips to Applejack, raised a foreleg, and gently closed Applejack’s mouth with her hoof.  "Hey, AJ.  You look really good tonight."  Everypony in the room listened intently on what Rainbow had said and were utterly stunned to see the most hot headed arrogant mare, possibly in all of Equestria, so well dressed and humble.

“I, uh, thanks, Sugarplum.  You look handsome."

A mare in the background 'awed,' bringing the two out of a moment they were sharing to see all eyes on them.

Rainbow opened her wings slightly and rolled her neck. "Okay, I thought this was supposed to be a party.  Where's the food?"  The others went back to their own tasks and conversations, keeping an ear toward the new couple.  "So, Applejack.  I see you got really dressed up, it looks good on you."

"Same fer you.  I like your mane, it's kinda flat, but Ah like the curls at the ends. And that dress is really,” Applejack swallowed hard, “fitting.”

"Yeah, Rarity said it was for tonight, but it doesn’t really throw off my aerodynamics so it doesn’t really suck." Rainbow said with a huff as she tried to play cool, “I like the electric blue against my coat. Uhm… you look really pretty in that, uh, dress and, well, you hair looks good enough to eat,” Rainbow blushed.

"Ya can eat me all you want, Dashing," Applejack said loudly. A mare at the table spat out her wine when she heard that and almost everypony in the room laughed as Applejack realized the other meaning of what she said and blushed, pulling her hat down a little.

"Oh, sweet Celestia,” the stallion standing beside Davenport said in a very feminine voice, “why don't you say things like that to me?"

"Rainbow Dash, I think I speak for everypony here when I say that you're cooler as a fillyfooler than a weather manager," Quill chimed as she hugged Rainbow from the side.

"Uh, Sugarplum, yer turnin' purple again."

"I know Applejack,” Rainbow grumbled, “you don't have to say that every time," Rainbow blushed with embarrassment as she tried to side away from the hug.  "Okay, okay.  I know I'm a crappy flock leader, but I'm trying to do better. Let me go already, Quill, or I'll-"

"You'll what?  Make us do your dishes?"  A mare from the table called.  Flutterwing.  ‘Out sick’ my plot.

"Glad to see you're feeling better, Flutterwing,” Rainbow said with a cocky tone, “ya ready to come back to work Monday?"  Flutterwing smiled and raised her glass in respect to Rainbow Dash’s comment.

“If your big head doesn’t explode, maybe,” Flutterwing replied sarcastically.

Breaking the hug Quill backed up and giggled again.  "Now what's so funny?" Rainbow asked.

"I've been staring at your flank for years and I never had any idea it was on the market," Quill quipped.

"It hasn't been.  I guess it's only been on the market a few days.  I mean off the market.  I mean-"

"What she means," Applejack interjected, "is that she's tired of stallions that use her for her body.  Am I right, mares?"  A few nodded and lightly stomped their hooves in agreement. ”It wasn’t really somethin’ she planned, but I guess Ah made the first move and, well, it went from there."

"That is so sweet, Applejack,” Quill said wistfully, “I remember when you first came to one of my parties. It must've been, four years ago, right?"  Applejack nodded. "You were so uncomfortable that you spent half the night in the bathroom and the other half looking at that lamp right there," she laughed as she pointed with a wing.  Now, you're practically here every party, just to hang out.

“I'm so glad to see you brought somepony this time. Not that I’m counting out that Twilight Sparkle," Applejack’s eyes widened a bit.

Quill led the mare into the den and took a seat in a plush chair while gesturing them to sit on the couch. "She was awful. Remember how five minutes after she got here she started analyzing all my guests and taking notes on ‘same gender mating practices’," the stallions laughed again, "she couldn't believe that males could do anything together at first!” Quill exclaimed.

“She read about mare-mare-relationships, but never knew stallions could have sex!  Can you believe that?" Quill looked at Rainbow as she kept talking, "I was so glad she and Applejack separated, except that AJ was so lonely… until she found you. It’s all going around town about how happy she is, finally.

“Rainbow, you're such an amazing mare and I know you'll give her the attention she deserves... Oh my gosh! Rainbow Dash, you are turning purple!" Quill broke into laughter and went to the table to get a couple glasses of wine for Applejack and Rainbow Dash.  "Drink up, ladies.  I guess you're the mares of the minute so enjoy the limelight.  I'm gonna mingle and you should too. Applejack, introduce her and show her around!"  With a final motion around the room, Quill went to the kitchen to get more wine.

"C'mon, let me introduce you to the others." Leading Rainbow to the stallions with a smile. "Rainbow, this is Davenport and this is, Mud Tracker, right?”

“Oh, pshaw, call me Muddy, for a couple reasons,” he giggled when Davenport elbowed him and shot him a look."

"How long ya been together? It’s nice ta see a new stallion and Davenport here’s been stag fer a while, ever since Master Lock moved away."

“Oh,” Davenport smiled weakly, “about a month. Uh, sexually, that is. We’ve been friends for years, but he finally came out and moved here to be with me.”

"Oh for Luna's sake, Dav, do you always have to be so cute. He's playing it up. I'm from his  home area and we fooled around when we were younger, but the time never seemed right, until recently."

“Anyway, Rainbow, it’s nice to see you here, it’s a really nice crowd to be with. There aren’t as many like us, you know, colt cuddlers, so it’s good to be around mares that are, ya know.”

“Well, I’ve never heard of two stallions together like that. How’s it work, do you have both parts or-” Applejack placed a hoof over Rainbow’s mouth.

"Well.  It's nice to meet you, gentlecolts," Applejack said. After a few awkward seconds of silence Flutterwing could be heard whispering something insulting, but Rainbow couldn’t make it all out. She stepped away from the hoof on her mouth and took to a hover, glaring at the other pegasus.

Applejack quietly apologized to the stallions while Rainbow went to interrogate Flutterwing.  "So, Flutterwing.  Paperwork says you're on bed rest for the cockatrice flu.  How's that going?"

"Oh, I made a miraculous recovery this morning. I was gonna send a letter to Diamond to let him know, but you're here,” she narrowed her eyes, “so I guess I don't have to."

"I'm just trying to do my job, Flutterw-"

"This isn't work, Rainbow Dash. This is a gathering for ponies to talk and have fun in safety, away from haters and stresses, like work."

Rainbow stopped herself and thought for a second.	"What do you mean safety? I know a couple of mares that are plot huffers and no one has a problem with them."

A gasp was heard and Rainbow looked around to see shocked faces. She rubbed her neck at the withering glare Flutterwing and her date were giving her.

"Rainbow, that’s the most insulting thing you can call a mare that loves mares.  There's a lot you have to learn, but I can see-"

“Alright, enough flexing feathers, let’s play a game!” Quill interjected, flying between the two. “Applejack, you've never been able to play before, but now you have to," Lime called joyfully, lightening the mood.

"Ah ain't playin' that on Rainbow’s first party," Applejack protested as she tried to hide a grin forming on her muzzle by dipping her head.

The others in the room started chanting Applejack’s name and circling her and Rainbow until they were side by side. Lime stood before them and shouted. "Kiss-off!"  Rainbow's eyes widened as she looked to Applejack, who was blushing deeply and poking the floor with her hoof.

"AJ, what's that mean?"

"It means," Flutterwing shouted, "you have to challenge a couple and see who’s is the best kisser."  Whinnies and hooves stomping filled the room as Applejack glanced at Rainbow with a huge embarrassed grin on her face.  "Unless you're too chicken to do it."

Rainbow frowned and crossed her forelegs as her wings flapped slower. She scanned the crowd and pointed a hoof at two mares.  "I, we challenge them."  Applejack looked at where Rainbow was pointing then gasped.

"Rainbow we can't challenge them, they're just teasing you," Applejack whispered. “that’s Patient Time with Flutterwing, she’s a unicorn you don’t mess with at games like these.”

"Then when we beat 'em, they'll have to kiss my hooves," Rainbow said confidently as she swished her tail.





"Two couples, standing face to face in the center of the room, who’s ready to kiss to the end and who will have to call it quits?” Lime said loudly as the couples mentally prepared themselves. “Let's find out who's got the clout to kiss the other team out!  Rules are easy.  More passionate kissers with duration are the winners!  Ready?  Mares, moisten your lips," everypony giggled uncontrollably at that part, "and now your muzzles! Start on twenty… Twenty!"

The other couple sat in front of each other and began slowly kissing, their lips parting and their tongues dancing as they met.  Rainbow Dash and Applejack looked at each other then the other couple and sighed.  Applejack leaned in and their lips almost met but then she stopped as their eyes met. Smiling, they felt a fire burning within their hearts at a deeper level, a magical pull drew them together.

Rainbow opened her wings suddenly, startling the other mares and breaking their kiss as Rainbow sat on her haunches, opened her forelegs beckoning to come closer, and smiled daringly.  Applejack walked in close and sat chest to chest with her.

Moving millimeters from kissing, they stared into each other's eyes for what felt like an eternity, drinking in the colors of each other’s souls.  The deep green washed over Rainbow as the sparkling bright ruby filled Applejack’s heart as she leaned in, closed her eyes, then they finally kissed.

Wrapping their legs around each other’s barrels they let their tongues dance passionately, their breaths becoming hot and heavy as their tails curled around their own flanks and Rainbow’s wings opened fully, their desires began to turn lustful as Rainbow lightly bit Applejacks bottom lip and held it for a moment.  The onlookers giggled at the scents filling the room from all the affection.

Rainbow and Applejack’s tongues battled for dominance as their breaths quickened and their hooves moved to each others flanks. Rainbow gasped as Applejack moved her one hoof to Dashes inner thigh. Taking the opportunity, Applejack nibbled on the tip of Rainbows tongue that stuck out of her mouth for a moment. Dash had lost the battle for the moment as Applejack pushed her to the floor with a whump sound.

The cheering of the others around them drowned out by the sound of their panting breaths.  They could, once again, only see each other and feel the other’s warmth.  Their hearts were racing in unison and their touches were all placed right where they needed to be to illicit the most pleasurable reaction.

Without stopping, Applejack moved one of Dash’s wings to her mouth and began kissing it from the tip to the first joint.  Rainbow moaned loudly making the other team stop in surprise.  Kissing her wings, Applejack grabbed Dash and turned her over without taking a feather from her mouth as she kissed the entire length of Rainbows left wing then went from the base of the right one to the tip.  Dash was drooling as her body trembled from the onslaught of sudden unexpected pseudo-preening as Applejack massaged the muscles lightly at the base of Dash’s tail with her teats.

Leaning her head back, Rainbow made contact with Applejack's lips again as they turned their bodies towards each other again and began a dance of hooves and wings as they began to lose control of their basic instincts.

Pressing her knee against Applejack's tail started to do the trick for them both as their moans and lust fueled passion took over completely.

The world came crashing back around them as Quill and Muddy pulled the mares apart. "We have a winner! And what a win too!  I honestly haven't seen passion like that in this house since Fourth Chance and True Heart!  Well done, ladies!  You set a new record and bar to beat!  Rainbow Dash, I'll be in my room if you need me," Lime finished her announcement with a huge smile and a flushed face.

Rainbow and Applejack looked around at the others who were all blushing and breathing heavily.  Even the stallions were hanging completely out of their sheaths. "So," Rainbow started with a heavy breath, "I knew we'd win."  Applejack stood next to Rainbow Dash and held their hooves in the air in victory.





"Rainbow Dash and Applejack. Not only would I have never put you two together in a million years, but you two kissed for almost three minutes! Most usually just peck or kiss normally, I can’t believe you two,” Quill laughed, “you'd still be going if you weren't about to make love in front of everypony there," Quill said with a huge grin as they stood on the backyard porch, taking in the night’s air.

"We seriously almost did that?" Rainbow asked, a glass of wine in her primary feathers, swirling in the moonlight.

"Ah know what ya mean, Dashing.  Ah thought only a minute or two passed before we were bein' pulled off each other."

"Well, you're in love and that's what happens, girls. Time stops. Just remember that anything that happens here doesn't ever get talked about out there.  Ever.  Understand, 'Dashing?'" Quill said sternly.

"Yeah, yeah. Not only that, I don't think anypony would believe what happened."

"Ain't that the truth. Now, I dunno about y’all, but Ahm callin' it a night.  Dashing, care to walk me home?"

"Sure, I’ve got some free time and a full belly from those snacks. Night Quill, great party!  Uhm, tell the others I'll see 'em around."

As Applejack and Rainbow Dash walked, Applejack told her one of the unwritten rules of what it meant to be attracted to the same gender in Ponyville.  "Don't acknowledge another unless they're open about it.  Religious families have been known to disown an entire generation from their clans over admittance.  Times are good, but they have a ways to go until these ‘Nightmare Moon’ or ‘Celestia Celibates’ cults go on with their own lives."

"Why don't the princesses just do something about it then?  Make it a law to be with whoever you want."

"Cuz Rainbow, it ain’t against the law. It’s just not a good way to repopulate since the Age of Discord threw mares five ta one against stallions.”

“Yeah, yeah. That’s first year stuff, even I remember that. That’s why we still herd in families, blah, blah.”

“Right, but a herd without a stallion is looked down on, so we’ve gotta play the cards right. Ponyville’s a nice town, but ponies from uptight places like Canterlot come through and word of the town bein’ full’a same-same couples would cut the traffic because, well, it’s like takin’ an apple and a pear tree.

“Ya can have em both in the same orchard, but they aren’t meant ta cross. Ya can’t have an apple tree with pears any more than ya can have herd without stallions and mares… well,” Applejack looked to the starry sky with a smile, “most of the time.”

“AJ, you’re weird sometimes.”

Exhaling and looking over to the mare flying beside her, Applejack rolled her eyes. “There’s a lot ta learn that ya don’t know, Rainbow. Maybe ya need to open yer eyes more and mouth less.”

“Heh, you’re just jealous I whooped ya at lunch,” Rainbow grinned. When Applejack rolled her eyes she continued. “Yeah, wha-what?! Can’t ace the best, AJ.”

“Keep braggin’, Ah’ll make ya eat those words b’fore ya know it.”

“Ha, keep dreaming, with your freckles and,” she gulped, speaking softer, “everything,” she blinked twice. “Hey, gotta jet, AJ. Totally got stuff to do, night!”

“Rainbow Dash?! This ain’t walkin’ me,” she quieted her voice, watching the contrail dissipating, “home. Ah’ll see ya in my dreams, I’m sure.”
> Time for a change
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

 Applejack, tilling the farm while Big Mac checked the plant growth when Rainbow arrived. "Hey, AJ. It was so great to show those uptight mares who's the best in the business.  I mean, yeah, I knew we were gonna win, but that was an epic win.  No pony'll top that for years I bet.  I didn't know I was such a natural at kissing but I think we should try to break our own record next time."

"Yeah, it was a good time and I was glad you were there with me this time. Ah hope you go again. Dashing, ya gotta understand that those are my friends and you didn't treat 'em very kindly.  You gotta calm down, Dashing."

"I did awesome, AJ. I mean, c’mon, and they loved me!"

"Dashing, do you wanna be in a relationship with me?" Rainbow looked confused for a second then answered.

"Well, you're my best friend and now you're my," Rainbow paused as she thought of what to say, "fillyfriend.  We've done things as friends and now... you've made me feel feelings I never had before, awesome ones.  Of course I wanna be with you, but I guess I don't really know how to be anything but me. I don’t want us to change, cuz you’re cool like you are, and I’m awesome, by nature,” she winked.

"Rainbow, Ah won't ask you to change yourself for us to be together.  I just need you to be nicer to my friends, even if they’re the ponies you work with.  The way you were talkin to Flutterwing was down right rude, and everypony saw it.  If ya treat others like that outside work,  then you'll never get your flocks respect."

"AJ, I know what I need to do to get them to do what I say, and bein a pushover isn't gonna work.  I've gotta wow 'em with my awesomeness."

Applejack leaned on her hoe with a sigh. "Dashing, Ah’m just sayin that ya have ta be better that awesome, ya gotta be kind.  You can be you, the Rainbow Dash I fell in love with.  But-"

"Another 'but,'" Rainbow said as she roller her eyes and then looked at the sky.

"But, I want everypony else to love you too.  Not like I do, but to see you the way I do. As a wonderful mare that takes the challenges of life, and can inspire others to do the same.  Not the Rainbow Dash that tells everypony that they're lame and won't measure up."

"I never say they're lame!  Well, almost never, but then they deserve it.  And if they try harder they can measure up to about here on me,” she lined her hooves to the bottom of her ribcage. “Not all the way to my level, but they can get close."

"That's what makes my heart ache, Rainbow,"  Rainbow looked at Applejack, her ears perked, "you make every other pony, from foals to elders, feel like they're nothing to ya.  Always spoutin' you're the best at everythin' and they can't match ya,” Applejack scowled, “Ya even make Scootaloo feel like she’s not worthy to be around you.  That's not what anypony needs in life, work, or love."

"I don't make her feel that way, AJ."

"Ya don't know how she feels, how I feel!" Applejack snapped as stomped her hoof into the soil and looked at Rainbow, "and ya can't know unless you feel the same way others do.  No pony'll talk to you the way you talk to them cuz it's down right rude and mean to make others feel bad about themselves and their faults."

"Applejack, I-I didn't know I made ponies feel that way," Rainbow replied as she felt uneasy, "I'm sorry."

"Rainbow, you don't have to do anything different to be with me," Applejack said calmer, "Ah said I love you as you are, and I do. Ah want you to be friends with my friends and a role model to others. Nopony’s gonna be okay with the way you treat them if you act like yer better than them."

"I-I didn't know. I just thought they," Rainbow stopped talking and lowered her head and landed.

Placing a hoof on Rainbow’s back, Applejack moved close to Rainbow.  "They don't, Dashing. They don't like the way you treat them. Ah want, and you need, them ta love you and respect you. You can be better, like you are with the five of your friends, you just have to get everypony else to see it."

Rainbow raised her head and took a deep breath in.  "AJ, you’re awesome, too. I’m… well, you opened my heart in a way no pony ever has, and I like getting sappy with you, but I don't know how to be different.  What if I let them down, or hurt my image, or maybe what if-"

"No, Rainbow.  No more ‘what if’s’. You're Rainbow bucking Dash, and you can be kind to other ponies.  You can make them love you by being the mare I know ya can be. The Rainbow Dash that Ah’m lookin’ at right now is what they need to see, even if its just sometimes."  Rainbow was without words as she started into Applejack’s green eyes, then she broke eye contact and started hovering again.  "Rainbow, ya okay?"  Rainbow opened her wings and flew away suddenly, surprising Applejack who couldn't even call to her before she was out of range.

What was that about?  Ah thought we were havin' a good moment.  Ah guess she ain't gonna change, but it was worth a shot.

Big Mac caught her eye with his gaze and snorted before turning back to his plants.





Rainbow arrived to work on time and went right to work, filling out and filing her paperwork.  She didn't delegate her work and still got the first part of her paperwork done before she had to go cloudbusting, then held a meeting with the three other Pegasi on duty before she began her duties about the current weather patterns and where each had to work that day.

"Flutterwing, I need you to get the rain showers in order for 5:00, 7:00, and 8:00 tonight over grid 17, 31, and, uh, 11. In that order.  Edge Trimmer, you need to get clouds out of the sky over town hall but move a few together to make six type 4 nimbus’ over the market street for the sales ponies today and Watch Counter, I need you to check the reservoir and ambient humidity around it, then I need you all to go about filling your order requests that I put in your boxes. Any questions?"  Edge raised her hoof.

"Yes, Edge?"

"Who are you and where's Rainbow Dash?"  Watch stifled a chuckle and Flutterwing smriked.

Rainbow rolled her eyes."Everypony needs to change it up, sometimes. You're dismissed," Rainbow said to the group as she stood tall and looked at them sternly.  Dispersing into their  various tasks, Rainbow hovered and floated to a nearby cloud to push it into place somewhere else. She puffed her chest proudly.  This is one of the best days I've had in a while, they’re totally in awe of my... no, relax. It’s time for a change. Awesomely kind Rainbow Dash.  Oh, that reminds me, she shoved the cloud and returned to the office and to Diamond’s door.

"Hey, Mister Diamond, can I have a minute?" Diamond raised his eyes from his paperwork and nodded, gesturing for her to take a seat without a word. "Diamond, I know I have a bad attitude sometimes and I wanted to tell you I'm working on it.  I went on a date over the weekend and it was awesome and all, but I had a couple talks, and I'm ready to be a real manager.  I won't let you down."

"Miss Dash, there are rumors that you're dating another mare, is this true?"  Rainbow gulped and tensed, nodding once.  "Miss Dash, I can't condone a manager to behave in a way that would cast a negative light on the company."

"Mister Diamond-" Rainbow started but was cut off.

"You will not be punished for your personal relationships, however if you let this affect your work negatively… Look, if you are dating a mare that works here and it ends badly it won’t end well for anypony, do you understand?"

"No I don't.  You're saying if I date another mare I'll be fired for making the flocking company look bad? There are laws about that!  I remember from that pile of papers I have to sign every year!"

"You are mistaken, Miss Dash.  You will not be fired for being in a personal relationship with anypony, male or female.  You will be fired for being rude, insulting, and/or derogative to the other members of the flock, especially your subordinates because of an onsite relationship."

Rainbow straightened her back as the words sank in.  Diamond is saying I'm a jerk? Well, he’s a bigger one!

"Diamond," she started, "I know I'm a lot of awesome things, but being sappy isn't usually one of them, especially with a coworker."

"Then I strongly suggest you stay your course and glide true north, or you'll wings will fail you before the peak, Miss Dash. Do I make myself clear?"  Rainbow felt her eyes starting to narrow as he finished the old saying. She got up and left his office without further argument.  The sounds of him returning to work like nothing just happened hurt just as much to her.

"Rainbow, what's wrong?  Why are you upset?" Quill asked as she landed next to Rainbow as she left Diamond's office.

"Can we talk in my office? Please?"

"Sure, let's go."  They walked side by side as Rainbow choked back her frustrated words, her eyes enough though. Quill readied herself as they entered Rainbow’s office Quill closed the door. She wasn’t prepared for what happened next, as Rainbow began to cry quietly. Quickly, Quill held her close.  "What happened in there?  Did he do something?"

"I'm, I'm a jerk," Rainbow sniffled as she pressed her face into the gradient purple mare’s neck. Quill didn't know what to say as she held Rainbow Dash in her forelegs. "Applejack said I was a jerk, and now Diamond did, and I'm gonna get fired and lose Applejack because all I've ever known is how to be the pony I show everypony and all I do is brag and gloating and talking about how uch more awesome I am than everypony and,” she hiccupped, “I’m not, Quill. I’m always so scared to let everypony down, now I am.”

"What are you talking about? First of all, Applejack wouldn't leave you that easy, second, you’re right, you’re ego is too big sometimes, but you’re a great inspiration to other ponies,” Quill said softly, rubbing Rainbow’s neck and back. “You’re not a jerk, you’re just confident, is all.”

"But I am a jerk. I treat everypony like they're nothing, and I was rude at your party, and then I ditched AJ when she told me my attitude sucked but she was right," Rainbow said as she choked back sobs, wrapping her forelegs around Quill.

"Oh, sweetie. Applejack loves you, and that’s all that matters. How you were at the party was just fine. Flutterwing can stick a feather in her plot for all I care,” Rainbow chuckled as her noises stopped. “That’s better, now, look at me. Come on, let me see those eyes. That's better.  Listen to what I'm going to say, and understand that everypony agrees. Rainbow Dash, you are a filly in a mare’s body."

Rainbow's eyes began to make enough tears to run down her cheeks. "Now that you know that, what are you going to change to act like a mare that’s deserving of respect and love?" Quill was talking calmly as she stroked Rainbows messy mane. "Rainbow Dash, I'm here for you, and so is every other pony that knows and cares about you.  We’re here to help you, okay, sweetie?"

After a few minutes, Rainbow began to compose herself as she went around her office, finally stopping to open and lean against the window sil.  “Quill, I need AJ."

Quill smiled and nodded as she went and shoved Rainbow playfully partially out the window, then stepped back. "I'll tell everypony you're checking on a report of unscheduled precipitation by the Everfree. You don't have all day, but it’ll buy you time so you can do this, go get her."

"Thank you, Quill.  I owe you one," Rainbow jumped out the window, the feeling of gravity as it tugged at her body, she opened her wings and began to fly to Sweet Apple Acres.

Flying at a relaxing speed, she flew over the farm, then the trees in the orchard until she saw Applejack picking up fallen apples around a tree.  Hovering in place, she watched Applejack routinely picked the apples off the ground that didn't land in the bushels then move to the next tree. After she finished, Applejack wiped her head with a cloth and Rainbow descended quickly, stopping to hover beside the farm mare. "Dashing, what're ya doin here? Ain't ya supposed to be at work?"

Rainbow rubbed a hoof against the other foreleg and exhaled. "AJ, you're right.  I'm a jerk and I need your help."

"Rainbow, I never said you were a jerk," Applejack said with surprise, “did somethin’ happen?”

"You didn't have to, AJ.  My attitude almost got me fired today and I realized that everypony was right," Rainbow looked at Applejack intently as she spoke, "I treat others like losers.  I might be the best at a lot of things but I have to learn to not rub it in their muzzles."

"Fired? Ugh, okay, we’ll come back ta that. Look, Dashing, ya gotta work on your humbleness.  Now, Ah don't want you ta think ya gotta be different all at once, but ya gotta change."

"Well, today I was nice.  I don't think I've ever been so nice to my flock.  But, I went to talk to Diamond, my boss, and he said if I act like, well, like me; then I'll be fired.  I don't know what I'd do without my job at the weather control office, AJ."

"Dashing, you're a great mare and I know you can get everypony else to see it, and worse comes to worse, ya can work on the farm." Rainbow’s chest puffed up proudly, she smiled at the thought of her being the best at something else, then she raised an eyebrow.

"Would I have to work as hard as you do?” Applejack nodded, a noticeable drip of sweat ran down the Applejack’s head. “No," Rainbow said as she relaxed, "I don't want work on the farm, or to be the best at everything. I just want to be the mare you want me to be."

She chuckled with a playful roll of her eyes. "Dashing, you will the best, and Ah wanna be right there ta see it. And fer the record, Ah fergive ya for leavin' me after the party and ignoring me all Sunday."

Rainbow gulped.  "Yeah, sorry about that.  I didn't know what to say and I kinda felt hurt.  Then I spent the next day hangin' out at my house and just workin’ out.  Hey!  I haven't seen any of the others for a while, wanna ditch work and see Fluttershy with me?"  Applejack gave Rainbow a look that answered Rainbow’s question.  "Okay, okay.  I'm goin’ back to work for a while so I'm gonna see Fluttershy after and I'll swing by later.  Ya gonna be done round 6:00?”

"Sugarplum, I'm done when the work is done."

"Oh, fine. I'll come back before sunset then."

"Fly safe, lover."  Rainbow blushed and flew in the direction of the Everfree to start and finish her work as quickly as she could.





The Cutie Mark Crusaders were in Sweetie Belle’s room talking as Apple Bloom began to vent.

    "Ah don't get why Applejack wants Rainbow Dash as her special somepony.  She can have any stallion in town, and she goes for her!"

"I don't believe it.  I've been with Rainbow Dash a lot and I haven't seen her even looking at another mare like that," Scootaloo said loudly.

"Like what?" Sweetie asked.

"Like when Cheerilee and Big Mac were under the love potion spell.  I saw that look when Rainbow was with Soarin a lot, but I think he had it more than she did, now that I think about it."

"Yeah, but they broke up, and she's with your sister now, Applebloom."

"No she ain't, Sweetie Belle!  They’re just messin' with me to see how I'd react."

"If your sister's a fillyfooler, then could she another mare?"

"Hey, no pony is better than Rainbow Dash, and if Rainbow likes Applejack, then it's the best thing to ever happen to her."

”No she ain't and no they ain't. It's just a phase. Applejack’s gonna find a stallion and give me a niece in no time.

"Girls, time for lunch," Rarity called from downstairs. The fillies galloped from Sweetie’s room, down the stairs, and sat at the table’s chairs to eat their sandwiches and drink their iced tea.

	"Applebloom, if your sister and Rainbow Dash have a foal, what'd it look like?"

Rarity gasped as her magic faltered and she dropped a cup into the sink she was washing.  "What did you just say, Scootaloo?  About Applejack and Rainbow Dash?"

"Well, Apple Bloom thinks they're special someponies, and Scootaloo says they don't have the spark, and Applebloom said she saw them kissing."

All the fillies said 'eewww' at the same time, then giggled as they went back to eating.  Applebloom scrunched her muzzle as she thought of them kissing.

"They also spend the night together sometimes. Ah peeked once and they was all cuddlin' with Rainbows wings all over Applejack."  The other two giggled as Rarity walked out of the kitchen in surprised shock.

“Well,” she mumbled, “if I knew they were going on a date... I’d have certainly made sure they matched better. Oh well, next time I’ll be better prepared,” she smiled and went to her inspiration room with ribbons of every color taking on a blue hue, just as she shut the door.
> Don't want it. Don't need it .
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Fluttershy was feeding random animals in a bush as Rainbow arrived.  "Heya Flutteshy, what's happening?"  Rainbow asked as she hovered nearby, causing the animals to scurry into hiding.

"Oh, hello, Rainbow Dash. I'm doing very well, thank you for asking.  How are you and Applejack?"

"Why do you wanna know about just us?" Rainbow asked crossing her arms defensively.

"Oh, I'm sorry if I offended you, Rainbow Dash," Fluttershy replied turning her head so her mane covered her eye, "I was just asking because you're always challenging each other and I was curious if she’d made a move yet."

Rainbow Dash relaxed her forelegs and her jaw opened in shock.

Turning her head back to Rainbow Dash, a slight smile crossed Fluttershy's face. She dropped the last of the nuts and berries into the bushes, then turned to face the hovering mare before her. "THe birds and the bees keep me informed of certain things that happen around the area, and I think it's wonderful you two are so much happier lately. I spoke with Applejack Sunday, and she was very happy to have seen you at her friends party.  She wouldn't say why but she was smiling a lot."

Rainbow's eyebrows raised slightly as she listened and pressed.  "So, she was happy to see me?  What'd she say?  Did she tell you what we did? Was it really as awesome as I thought it was?"

Fluttershy quietly giggled into a hoof. "Well, only that you went to a party and you two won a game, and that she was very, very pleased with how well you played."

"Yeah, I knew it,” Rainbow inverted and flew with her belly to the sky effortlessly. “No one even had a chance to beat us.  We're unstoppable when we team up."  Fluttershy chuckled as she turned to walk back to her cottage. "Hey, Fluttershy, where ya goin?  Wanna come with me to see Twilight?"

"Why don't you want to see Twilight alone, Rainbow Dash?"

"It's nothing really, just she and I haven't talked for awhile, and now we have something between us that I don't want to get in the way of our friendship."

"Well, if it's important you should talk to her about it.  She is your friend, after all, and she will understand.  How can you solve a problem if you don't talk about it?"

"Well," Rainbow began rubbing the back of her head as she righted herself and followed the walking pegasus into her cottage. Rainbow thought of a response but couldn't make sense of one. "Ya know, Fluttershy, you should open a stand and charge people for your advice.  You'd make a lot of bits."

"Oh," Fluttershy giggled softly, "I couldn't do that.  I need to make sure all my critters are healthy first."

"Yeah, I guess.  So, what's new with you, Fluttershy?  Taking any trips or anything?"

"Oh, well.  No actually. I may go to Trottingham next month to check the health of a few creatures at their zoo, but that's all.  Why do you ask?"

"Because I'm bored, Fluttershy.  I have a hours left to kill before I get to see AJ, and I don't know what to do."

"Well, you can go talk to Twilight and work out your problems, then you two can arrange a picnic or spa day for us all, and if you need me, I'll be here and you can come to me for advice."

Rainbow rolled her eyes then said her goodbyes to Fluttershy. Heading back to town she went straight for the Golden Oaks Library to see Twilight.





Twilight was sitting at a desk reading a book on pre-industrial Equestrian hay baling techniques, when Rainbow Dash flew in through an open upstairs window.  "Heya Twi, what's new?  I just got done talking with Fluttershy and she said I should get something off my chest."

Turning around in her chair Twilight smiled.  "Hi, Rainbow Dash, I haven't seen you for over a week. I hope everything's okay…” her smile was forced, but Rainbow didn’t notice. “What can I help you with?"

"Well, you see, I was wondering about..." Rainbow thought for a couple seconds raising Twilight's suspicion, "the history of... um, the Golden Oaks Library?"

"You want to know the history of the library?  Where I live and work?  Rainbow, are you sure that's why you came here?"

"Okay, Twi, I really wanted to talk to you about Applejack."  Twilight took in a deep breath and held it for what felt like too long as they waited for the other to speak first.  Rainbow Dash started. "You see, I heard about you two and what you had for a while, with Applejack."

"How did you hear about us?" Twilight said as she began to glare at Rainbow Dash, "Did you tell anypony else?  What did she tell you?  Did you believe her?  Who else did she tell?"

"Woah, woah, woah, Twi, it's cool.  She just told me about you two after we..." she gulped as she trailed off.

Twilight's magic lit her horn as she climbed to the floor.  "What? After you what?"

"Uh, Twi.  I think I should go-"

"No,” the purple mare’s eye twitched, “please, answer me Rainbow Dash," Twilight said as she stomped a hoof on the floor to make her point, “what did you two do, exactly?”  Rainbow was still hovering in the air and started backing up as Twilight made a approach.

"We, well, she came to my house and a lot happened with kissing and then well, we had sex back at my place and then… then we had breakfast and did it again and after that time was when she told me about you two," Rainbow blurted.

"What. The. Spell!  You two had sex.  On the first date?!  A lot?!"

"It wasn't a date, she just came over to eat and talk. Everything else just happened! It wasn’t planned, honest!"

"THAT'S EVEN WORSE!" Twilight shouted in shock and disbelief.  "You and her.  She and you.  The both of you?!  I didn't imagine she'd really...  Why... Ugh!  What about me?  How could she move on so quickly? I mean a few months and she’s already got a new special somepony while I’m here with my books?" she shouted to the nearest bookshelf.

"Uh, Twilight?  I think you're broken again."

Twilight’s horn started to glow again as she locked her eyes on Rainbow Dash.  Rainbow Dash didn't like where this was going. “Yeah, uhm, I’m gonna head outta crazy town for a-” she found herself shrouded in a magic field that suspended her in the air.  "Twilight?  What're you doing?  Let me go.  This isn't cool."  Rainbow tried to move but to no avail, and she began to feel very nervous as Twilight looked at her.

"Spike is out doing errands and we have a long time to talk about this.  Alone."  The sound of locks clicking, doors being shut, and drapes being drawn around the library gave Rainbow the chills as she looked into Twilight’s face.  Rainbow tried to talk, but her mouth was closed magically as she began.  "Rainbow Dash, let's go down stairs and have a talk."  Opening a closet she levitated a rope to her back as Rainbow Dash shouted through her closed mouth with terrified eyes.





Twilight moved a chair from a desk to the middle of the room and set Rainbow in it.   Tying her wings to her body and then her body to the chair tightly, Twilight released her magic field and started at Rainbow.

"What the flock are you doing Twi?  Let me go before I get out myself and kick your flank to tomorrow," Rainbow shouted as soon as she could open her mouth again.

"Rainbow Dash, you're in no place to make threats... if you even are the real Rainbow Dash!  I know Rainbow Dash was in a relationship with Soarin, a member of the Wonderbolts,” Twilight started pacing around. “A stallion she idolized and worshiped, and then broke up with suddenly after engaging in a relationship with... for reasons unknown.  Less than a month later she turns into a fillyfooler and seduces the mare I was with?"

"I did NOT seduce anypony, Twilight," Rainbow shouted as she struggled against her binds.

"Sounds like changeling magic to me!"  With a sudden burst of light from her horn, a beam of mystical energy engulfed Rainbow Dash as she screamed in fear at the arcane magic blast.

Nothing happened.

"Okay, so you're not a changeling.  Or maybe you're a type of shapeshifter I don't know about."  Another spell blast at Rainbow, causing her to only flinch as nothing happened.  "Okay, maybe you're a demon, ghost, ghoul?  Something?"  Another spell followed another, yet nothing happened.

Rainbow glared daggers at her friend. “Lemme go, or I’ll get myself out.”

Twilight was feeling very awkward as it dawned on her that she was essentially attacking one of her best friends, after foalnapping them. "Okay then, if you're the real Rainbow Dash, then answer me this-"

"Twilight Sparkle.  I swear if you don't let me go right now I'll make it rain on and in this library for the next month. And you'll have your own personal snow cloud follow you for the entire winter," Rainbow threatened with a determined look.

"Okay, I'm sorry Rainbow.  I guess I over reacted a little," Twilight said as she untied the ropes with no effort.

"A LITTLE?  You tied me up, cast magic on me, accused me of being a changeling.  What the flock is wrong with you?!  Applejack said you can be jealous, but... this is going too far."

"Applejack said that?  What else did she say?  Did she say anything about me?  Does she miss me?  She must miss me, why else would she have you talk to me when she could have come to me!  Applejack and I, we had a system and,” her eye twitched again as her mane became loose, “you don't have a system do you?  You're impulsive and brash.  I'm calm and rational.  Logical, refined," Twilight said, standing taller, her nose in the air with and air of Canterlot pride and poise, "you are not.  I am the better mate by default for anypony, mare or stallion, and you are not.  Therefore, she misses me!"

"Twi, You're.  Acting.  Crazy!  I'm outta here."  Rainbow flew as fast as she could up the stairs and to the window she came in but couldn't get out of the library. "Twilight, open these windows or I'll break them out."

Twilight ran upstairs and looked at Rainbow Dash hovering high in the air with her forelegs crossed and a frown.  "You want out, or... do you need to get out?"  Twilight asked with an eerie grin.

"Both, now open up the way out, or else," Rainbow threatened.

"You want it, you need it, you got it."  With a flash of her horn, Twilight cast her 'want it, need it' spell on herself. Seeing Twilight, Rainbow’s eyes rolled up into her head and hearts rolled to replace them. She practically fell to the floor, stopping just before and flying quickly to Twilight. She wrapped her forelegs and wings around Twilight, pulling her into a passionate kiss.

Twilight was expecting something, but not the sudden physical actions. Suddenly she felt herself becoming aroused as she laid back onto the floor under the pegasi’s weight.  Rainbow climbed on top of Twilight and began kissing the base of her horn, down the sides of her head, cheeks, then slowly began to peck her way down Twilight’s neck.

Twilight’s eyes closed as she tried to cast a spell but couldn't focus through the erogenous spots being stimulated by Rainbow.  Slowly, down Twilights body the kisses went.

The pleasure was as intense as anything she's learned to do to herself with magic over the course of her life.  Losing herself in the moment she reveled in the feeling of her body being touched and kissed until Rainbow got to her teats and licked, sucked, and lightly bit a nipple.  The sudden pleasurable sensation made Twilight giggle loudly.

"Rainbow, you're so good at this.  Applejack is gonna be so jealous when she finds out what you're doing to me."

"I love you so much, Twilight.  So much.  I need you, only you," Rainbow said between kisses that lowered her to Twilight’s labia, "you're so delicious.  You're so magical.  I'm nothing without you. You're better than the princesses. Applejack can buck herself.  You're all I need."

Sitting up enough so she could see the rainbow mane bouncing below her belly, just as she felt a nose tickling against her clot, Twilight looked at the mare offering her affections and shuddered.  She only wants me?  I know she's impulsive and reckless but, oh Celestia, this is too much.  I have to stop this.  I have to talk to her.  "Rainbow, stop, can we talk?"

"Mmmphmh," Rainbow said as she darted her tongue inside Twilight.

Twilight yelped at the feeling of her insides being touched by a soft, wide, wiggling tongue. With a victorious chuckle, Rainbow did it again and again.  Twilight’s heart raced a she arched her back slightly.  The image of Applejack popped into her mind and she used her magic to push Rainbow back, then used her tail to cover her wet pussy.  She rolled over, but Rainbow grabbed by the hips her and flipped her back, trying her best to move the tail and get more of Twilight’s juices.

"Rainbow, please, stop.  STOP.  Rainbow Dash.  Stop!"  Twilight began fighting as she pleaded the enchanted mare fought to please her.  Focusing her magic she cast a dispel and her heart fell, realizing what she’d just done.

Rainbow stopped her assault and looked at Twilight abject fear and disgust as she scrambled back and away from the spell caster, backing into a bookshelf and knocking several down around her. Rainbow sat, guarding herself with her forelegs and wings reflexively.

"Rainbow, I'm sorry.  I didn’t mean-"

Rainbow screamed in fear at Twilight as she flew out of the nearest window as fast as she could, tearing the blinds and shattering the glass as she went though.

Oh Celestia, what have I done?  Twilight thought as the air settled and another book fell.
> Jealousy and Rivalry
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Fluttershy held Rainbow Dash as the daredevil trembled in her soft embrace. Her lap was the perfect cushion for Rainbow as she looked on with the worry a mother would have for her child.  "Rainbow, please. You must tell me what happened? Was it something bad? I didn't do anything to make you upset after you left, did I?"

"No,"  Rainbow said as she turned and buried her face in Fluttershy's underbelly, just above her teats, "it wasn't you."

"Was it Applejack? Did she... break up with you?"  Rainbow sat up and looked at Fluttershy. Rainbows eyes were welled with tears, but she was doing her best to hold her emotions inside.

Rainbow let a sob leave her lips but stifled it.  "Me and AJ are okay.  For now.  Oh no.  What'll she-?"  Rainbow began to blubber, letting herself fall back into her friend’s lap.  Fluttershy stroked Rainbows back lightly and hummed a relaxing melody.  A few minutes passed then Rainbow sat up, her back turned to Fluttershy. "Is AJ is going to hate me?"

"Oh, Rainbow.  Applejack will never hate you. What happened to cause all this? You can trust me."

With a shaky sigh, Rainbow explained what had happened to Fluttershy.  Fluttershy's expression turned from worry to concern to anger as Rainbow finished.  "Rainbow Dash.  What happened, I'm sure was an accident.  Twilight wouldn't intentionally-"

"The flock she wouldn't.  I've never been enchanted before, Fluttershy.  Never.  And for it to be sexual. And to have it happen by one of my best friends.  And for what she made me do to her,"  Rainbow looked away as her voice became shaky, "...to Applejack."

"Rainbow, I understand you are upset, but I think you should talk about this with Applejack and Twilight, together."

"No, Fluttershy.  I can't just go to Applejack and be all 'Hi, AJ.  Twilight enchanted me so I'd roll in the hay with her, just to get back at you.'  It sounds crazy!  I don't even believe me sayin' it!  I'm not a great liar, Fluttershy.

“What if AJ gets mad at me?  Doesn't want to be with me?  It's been a week and all this manure’s happened.  Why?  Fluttershy, why can't we just be happy and all our friends be happy for us?"

"I know that I'm happy for you. I haven't seen you this happy for a long time, and you have changed for the better, even if you don't notice it.

“You're becoming humble and more respectful, and that's because you have real love.  Even if it is a bit untraditional, it is still love. Like what I have for my critters. I love them more than I will any pony, when I'm not around you or the other girls.

“Rainbow, I fell you should trust Applejack to make her own decisions, and then this will resolve itself.  If it is good or bad for you, you are Rainbow Dash, and you will always recover."

"Okay. Fine," Rainbow said as she wiped her eyes dry and gave one last sniffle, "I'll talk with AJ as soon as I can.  If you hear screaming, it'll be her and me."

Fluttershy shook her head slightly and helped Rainbow to her hooves and walked her to the door.  "Good luck, Rainbow Dash." Remember, you will be fine.

Rainbow turned and flew back to town, leaving Fluttershy just outside her cottage.  I hope those mares work this out okay.  I'll make some tea and bring it to the library right away, for them to talk it over.





"Diamond, sir?  I have a personal problem and have to take tomorrow off. I have the request written and ready for you right here," Rainbow asked as she entered his office without knocking and shut the door behind her.

"Miss Dash," he said pressing a hoof to his forehead, "You took an hour and a half out in the field today and I have a report you were not working.  Napping or stunt flying isn't part of your job.

“Consider this your last warning, you may take  the rest of the week to resolve your personal issues."

"But, Mister Diamond, I don't need all week off, just a day."

"I understand your predicament, however I am offering you a final chance here," his voice was becoming stern and frustrated.

"Mister Diamond, I was-"

"Rainbow Dash,” he growled softly, “if you leave work to pursue personal matters, it does not concern this office or the company.  You have a week to decide if you want to work with the flock, or flock off," he shouted.

It was the first time Rainbow had heard him shout and his voice resonated in the office as he stomped his hooves on his desk and raised himself.  He suddenly became very imposing and threatening as his brow furrowed and his top lip quivered.  "I have sacrificed a lot for this company and the work we do.

“You treat it like it's a feather stuffing playground... it is a wonder to me how you became a manager before I was appointed here.  You spoke to me about changing yourself, then you take a personal day, and you act like it's nothing."

"But, Mister Diamond-"

"Rainbow Dash, you are dismissed from my office, or I will terminate you on the spot.  And respectfully close the door behind you," he said calmly as he sat down in his seat. Rainbow snorted in frustration but clenched her jaws shut, choosing to say nothing and leave.

She turned and closed his door quietly while she imagined shouting at him until he cried, then she’d watch him fly away limply, leaving a trail of tears. The office was deathly quiet as two dozen ponies looked at her expectantly.

"What?" Rainbow asked openly.

"I've never heard him yell," a random pony said from the back to another.

"He's a jerk, whatever.  He won't fire me, I’m too awesome," Rainbow said as she walked away from his office. The door to his office opened and Diamond coughed to get her attention.  Stopping, but not turning around, Rainbow stood in place, rolling her eyes and mimicking him.

"Miss Rainbow Dash.  For open insubordination immediately following a discussion with your superior, I am permitted to release you from your position as a manager in the Cloudsdale Weather Administration.

“You may stay on as a level two employee, if you choose," he stated with a hint of satisfaction.

A few gasps and a laugh that belonged to Flutterwing were the only noises in the office as everypony else fell silent.

Turning around slowly, Rainbow looked at Diamond.  "Mister Diamond Wing.  It has been an honor to work for the company but, you can go fuck yourself."

There was a moment of silence before the work floor erupted into shouts and laughter as Rainbow stood in front of the scowling stallion.

Raising the second feather on her right wing to him she took flight out of the building.

Celestia, what did I just do?  This sucks. I should have let it go and left, taken my week off. Now I got demoted, she groaned to herself as the air rushed by her head and through her mane. I know it’s sappy, but I need AJ right now.





Finding Applejack was easy while she was high above the farm.  Big Mac and Applejack were talking and when Big Mac excused himself, Rainbow lowered herself to the ground, striking a forced grin with a shaky greeting. “Hheeey, Appleja-ack,” she fought the emotions flooding her mind, but she couldn’t stop the tears from welling up in her eyes.

Running up to Rainbow, Applejack embraced her.  "Sugarplum, what wrong?  You were so happy earlier. What happened to take the color outta my rainbow?"

"AJ, it has been the worst day of my life.  I don't know… know how to tell you."

"Sugarplum, you can tell me anything, and I won't be mad at you."

"I did something bad. I did a lot of bad things today," Rainbow blinked, several tears clearing her eyes and running down her cheeks.

"What did you do?  I won't get mad, just let me know."  Applejack began rubbing Rainbows mane comforting her.

"You, you promise?"

"I promise you, Ah won't get mad," Rainbow buried her face in Applejack’s neck and mumbled something.  "What was that sugarplum?  I didn't hear you."

"I had sex with Twilight."  Applejack pushed Rainbow off of her and jumped up to her hooves, her narrow eyes scanning Rainbow Dash for a sign of humor.

"What the buck are you talkin' about?"  Rainbow couldn't look at Applejack, she just laid on the ground and sobbed. "How the buck could you...  Why?  After everything you said today, and over the weekend!  And what about our time alone?!"  Applejack shouted at Rainbow as she felt the corners of her eyes betraying her upset feelings. "You lied to me. Ya said you loved me..."

Rainbow sat up, but didn't make eye contact with Applejack. "She cast a spell on me and I couldn't control myself. It was the most scared I’ve ever been, I think, AJ,” Rainbow looked into Applejack eyes and the corners of her mouth tugged, seeing her cry. “I was watching what I was doing, but I couldn't stop.  I screamed inside my head and tried to run away, but the magic took over my body.”

Rainbow sighed, sitting up and wiping her eyes with her forelegs. “She stopped enchanting me, but it was too late, and then I ran away.  I ran away screaming like the coward I am,” she hung her head. “Applejack, I've never been so scared in my life, and now I’ve let you down because of it." Rainbow fell to the grass and covered her head with her forelegs and fell silent, trembling was the only thing she could do.

Applejack stood still as confusion, anger, and sadness fought inside her.  After a long moment, she finally walked to Rainbow, stopped to look down at the trembling mare, and then walked past her.

Lifting her head, Rainbow looked back, saw Applejack walking stoically away from her, shook her head, and flew home.





The moon was low in the sky as Rainbow laid in her bed, looking at the stars in the sky though the window.  Only a few stars out tonight.  Luna must be having a lot going on.  She's not the only one.  Here I am, crying and feeling sad for myself all day when I'm the one who made it all happen.

I didn't have to go to Twilight’s, alone.  I didn't have to be rude to Diamond.  I lost my job and now what do I have?  A cloud house that belongs to the company.  I'll be homeless, loveless, jobless, and hopeless.  I have my friends still.  Some of them anyway.  What the fluff am I doing with my life?  Everypony was right, I do treat everything like it's a game, a joke.  Like there aren't any recipocunsions for what I do. Now I'm paying for it all.  I’m a coward and I’m losing everything because I can’t do the best for everypony.


There were a few soft knocks at Rainbows front door.  Great.  Now Fluttershy's here.  What else can go wrong today?  Maybe Angel ran away and it's my fault too.

Going to the door took almost a minute for the exhausted Rainbow Dash to drag her hooves from the bed to the door.  Fluttershy was crouching low to the ground when Rainbow opened the door..  "What's up, Fluttershy?"

"Um, I'm supposed to get you and you're supposed to go to the library, uhm, right now, actually."

Rainbow rolled her eyes. "You have got to be joking.  I'm never stepping a hoof in that place again."

Fluttershy backed up a pace, trembling now.  "Please.  It's kind of really important."

"You do remember what Twilight did to me this afternoon, right?  I got demoted today too.  I can't handle her horse apples right now.  I’ve messed up too much, what if this is the end of the Elements of Harmony?"

"Rainbow, you have to help.  We need to go to the library, now.  Applejack and Twilight were fighting."

"Wait, AJ went to Twilight?  What the heck?"  Rainbow placed her hoof on her forehead.	"What happened?"

"Well, I was bringing some hot tea to the library when I saw the police outside.  I asked to go in, but there was a fight, they told me. They want to talk to you, to ask you a question or two."

"Oh, pluck me. What else can go wrong today? Oh, I know, lets involve the police! Ugh, whatever, let's get this over with."  Rainbow flew slightly ahead of Fluttershy as they approached the library.  "Hey Fluttershy?  Do you have that extra room still open?"

"I'm sorry, Rainbow Dash, but, I have that as a room this month for a traveling family of-"

"Yeah, yeah, yeah. I get it."





"So officers, what can I help with?" Rainbow asked one of the royal guards standing outside the door as she hovered to them, “I thought this was a police thing.”

"Who are you?"  Asked the stallion, looking at her with a steady gaze.

"You seriously don't know me?  I'm the amazing, awesome, best flier in all of Equestria; Rainbow Dash," she said boxing the air.

"You have permission to enter.  Go inside and you'll be debriefed."

"Debriefed?  I'm not even wearing clothes, bub.” Putting on her best smile, Rainbow flew through the now open door.

Rainbow felt like giggling at the mess. Books were strewn all over the floor, some were half hanging from the shelves, others were torn, while three had char marks on them.  What happened here? Did they really fight it out?  Flying to the local sergeant on duty, Rainbow addressed him.  He was a strong legged, green coated earth stallion with red hair.  He wore gold and silver enchanted body armor denoting his position.  "Yo, pops.  What's the deal? Ya needed me ta stop a fight?"

Turning around, he looked Rainbow square in the eye with a fierceness that startled the cocky expression she had right away.  "Rainbow Dash, I presume?"

"Uh, Yeah?"  Rainbow tried to put her confident smile back on her face, but it wouldn't stay.  This guy is as scary as a first year flight sergeant.  "What of it.  Am I under arrest?"

"No. However, your friends are.  As you can see there was a fight and neither of them won. There are no winners in fights to begin with, but this was a true stalemate it seems."

"Yeah, so?  There was a fight between my friends.  What's this gotta do with me?"

"It seems, you are the reason they fought."  Rainbow moved back a bit.  Still hovering was easy, trying to mask the embarrassment wasn't.  "Apparently you are in a love triangle between them and it came to blows. Unicorn magic versus earth pony strength usually is a decisive one sided battle. This one had a different outcome. It so happens that Princess Celestia’s student was involved with the towns strongest pony, it was a close stalemate. I have a couple questions to ask before I take you to the local police department."

"Am I under arrest?” Rainbow asked. When he shook his head she smirked. “Fire away."

"Are you in a sexual relationship with Applejack and Twilight Sparkle?"  Rainbow crossed her forelegs with a pout  "I need an answer now."

"Yea and no, I guess, mostly."

"Rainbow, I need you to elaborate." Hanging her head Rainbow plopped onto the floor and sighed.  "We can't resolve this without your testimony."

"Fine. I just started dating Applejack. I came over here to talk to Twilight about it since her and Applejack used to be going out. I never knew those two were plothu-, uh, marefriends, and I don't think it's a big deal since-"

"Stay on topic, Miss Dash."

"Right, so, I came over here to talk to Twilight and she thought I was a changeling and a demon and cast spells on me-."  The sergeant took a step back and quickly asked his next question.

"Are you a changeling, Miss Dash?"

"Uh, no.  I was about to tell you that. Anyway, she cast some ‘show me the changeling in disguise’ magic on me a few times.  When she let me go I tried to leave and she enchanted me.  She made me get all..." Rainbow looked away from him with a frown on her face.

"’All’, what?  Miss Dash."

"I-I don't want to say it."

"Either you tell me now, or I can arrest you for withholding information and you can tell me at the station."  Rainbow thought of what it would be like spending a few days in jail.  Free food. A chance to reread Daring Do.  No room to fly.  Small cell.  Using the toilet in the open.

"Fine," Rainbow resigned, "Twilight made me start to have sex with her. She stopped the spell andI ran away.” Rainbow huffed in frustration. “There, now you know.  Laugh it up."

Placing a hoof on Rainbow's shoulder, the sergeant spoke softer than he had earlier.  "Rainbow, what happened was not your fault.  Attempted rape through magic is a serious crime and is punishable by imprisonment. Not even the student of Princess Celestia is immune to the laws. Do you want to file an official report against Twilight Sparkle?"

"What? No, she's my friend."

"That neither makes her actions excusable or say that she won't do it again."

"I don't think she will, and if she does I'll-I'll," Rainbow felt her voice cracking as she let her false bravado fall and stopped talking so she could hold back her emotions.

"Miss Dash, walk with me to the station and I'll fill you in on what happened."  Rainbow nodded and followed him out the door.  The royal guard standing outside the door looked and scoffed at Rainbow as she passed.  “Miss Dash, something happened during their fight that defies known magic.  It turns out you bearers of the elements can't hurt each other the same as normal magic users. Did you know Applejack had casting powers?"

Rainbow stopped and looked at him before hovering and flying after him. "Earth ponies can't cast magic."

"That's what we believed.  It seems that when the physical fight began, Twilight attempted a standard hold spell.  It's a spell like when they levitate items around them, but this version holds a pony in place."

"Yeah, I know that one pretty well," Rainbow mumbled.

"Well, Applejacks chest began to glow and canceled the spell. That was how the first kicks got thrown."

"Wait, they actually hit each other?  Who won?"

"I already told you, neither of them.  Spike returned and we were called to the scene to stop it before it became deadly."

"Deadly?  I don't think it would've gotten that bad."

"Miss Dash, did you know Applejack is the strongest pony I've ever met?  It took six of us just to stop her progress towards Twilight, who was already bleeding from her muzzle,” Rainbow gasped, “even with us holding Applejack back we couldn't restrain her until another unicorn arrived on the scene.

“Twilight Sparkle is well known as one of the best magic users in Equestria, yet she barely kept Applejack at bay with defense spells,” he looked at her and frowned, “I don't know why you're smiling, Rainbow Dash. Applejack broke through Twilight’s shields to get to her, possibly to injure her further."

Rainbow gasped in surprise, covering her mouth with her hooves. "So, they were really fighting to the death?"

"Over you, Rainbow Dash."  Rainbow stopped and watched the officer in front of her, mouth agape. “Still feel so awesome?”




Walking into the police station, Rainbow looked around and hummed at how plain it was.  It wasn't like in the movies with cubicles full of uniformed stallions marching around shouting orders and holding dangerous convicts against the walls, shouting at them.  This office was a large sterile room with three desks setup in a triangle, two offices in the back getting tea, and soft music playing from a radio on a file cabinet.  Not what I expected at all.

"This way, Miss Dash."  Rainbow snapped out of her gaze and trotted over to him.

"So, what's the deal?  Why'm I here?"

"Actually, Applejack has requested to see you. She is very worried about you and she isn't calming down; she's hurting herself trying to see you."

"Hurting herself?  Like, biting herself or something?"

"No, she's fighting her restraints and preventing our medical personnel from treating her injuries. She's been in her cell for two hours and hasn't stopped fighting.  I've never seen a more tenacious pony in all my life."

"Can't you put her to sleep or something?"  Rainbow asked as he took a key from the wall with his teeth and unlocked a large metal door then placed the key back.

"Miss Dash!  I'm so glad to see you again," Nurse Redheart smiled at Rainbow and raised her hoof in greeting from inside the room. Bumping hooves together, the nurse continued.  "I heard you ask why we couldn't put her to sleep. There is a limit on how much medicine we can give a pony.  We reached that limit with her and it relaxed her, but she’s still struggling.”

"Uh, doc, officer-guard-guy, is this normal for a pony to see an inmate like this?  In the movies there's always lawyers and judges."

The other two chuckled.  "Don't believe everything you see in the movies or read in books.  Follow us."  The building was a lot larger than it looked from the air or outside.  A flight of stairs led down to various halls with offices and interrogation rooms lit by lanterns and a single flickering light in a room with a desk and two opposite chairs in it.

Following the duo, Rainbow was led to the end of a hall where the guard opened the door with his keys. "Be careful and stay clear of her, just in case.  We're gonna be right here watching."  With a nod, Rainbow entered the room slowly..

The cell itself was painted light pink and was essential bare except for a toilet-sink device and a medical bed with a mare strapped to it.

Applejack stopped tugging her forelegs and sighed. She was panting lightly as she looked down her body to Rainbow Dash.

"Su-Sugarcube?  Is that you?"

"Yeah, AJ, it's me.  Are you, okay?"  Applejack relaxed and laid her head back against the mattress and sighed.

"I love you, Rainbow Dash. I’m sorry about all this nonsense."

"Uh, okay?  What brought that on?"

"After you told me what Twi did, AH saw red and marched to her library.  I started talkin', then we started yellin', then I swung at her before I knew it and she fell," Applejack pouted, "then she cast magic on me.  When I was hovering there, bein' tossed around like a ball at school, all I could think of was what she did to ya. Then Ah felt somethin’. It was the same as when I use my element of magic."

"AJ, that's what I felt when we were kissing at the party!"

"Ah believe it, it was a good time,” she hummed contently. “Well, Ah looked and I was fallin’ from her magic spell to the floor. Then I went back ta tryin’ ta slap some sense inta her, but she put up a shield around herself. Busted ‘em down like an old wall in a barn,” she smirked at the thought, “Got five down, closer each time to her angry face, and I’da got the last one down, but the cops stopped me.

“Ah was glad they did, cuz Ah was feral, Dashing, I lost control and," her breath hitched as her face went blank. Rainbow hovered back.  "I wasn't gonna kill her, I just wanted to pin her to the floor and let her know what I thought of what she did, about how wrong it was."

"So, you weren't trying to kill her?" Applejack moved her head up and looked at Rainbow with surprise.

"Sugarplum, there hasn't been a murder in Ponyville history! I'll be darned if Ah'm gonna be the first, and over a lovers quarrel."  Applejack let out a single laugh then laid her head back down.  "Rainbow, I love you, and I don't blame you for what she did.  Ah don't really blame her either.  She's just jealous and handled it wrong.  She might be a bookworm, but that don’t make her smart."

"That's for sure," Rainbow laughed.

"Well, I don't think it'd gone so bad if she didn't tell me I was a idiot for leaving her for you. Ah’ll be honest, she said a few choice words about me, but when she brought my family into it, I went a swingin'. Ah said a few things and that just made it worse and that was when she went blastin’ and I went at her. Ah’m such a numbskull. Granny’s gonna tan my hide fer this."

"Well, that's what happens when you fight friends, AJ. I’m gonna go, but I forgive you for fighting over me, should I expect this more often?"  Applejack laughed.

"That's the last thing I wanna do. Now, this medicine an me 're fighting, and I'm losin'." Rainbow gave Applejack a pat on her leg and left the room to talk to the others.

"So, what's the plan? Throw her in prison to see the judge and jerky?"

With a laugh, Nurse Redheart replied.  "You really have to watch less movies, and it's 'jury'. If you're not going to file an official report, and neither of them are willing to, then we'll let them both go with fines and citations. I'm going to have them stay through tomorrow night to calm down, assess their mental state, and consult some professional ponies that deal with these things, but they should be fine. On that note, do you want to see Twilight?"

Rainbow thought hard for a moment then decided with a shrug. "Okay, lead the way."  Following the others again, she was led back through hall and down another shorter one with green doors, each with an image of a unicorn horn in a red circle, each with a glass wall facing the hallway, offering full view of the pony inside.

Sitting on a bench built out of the wall inside one cell was Twilight, her legs shakled together, a cloth on her horn, and her face matted from where tears had run down to the bandage that adorned her lower jaw, accented by several varieties of colored patches on her left side.

"Do you want to go in? She is magically locked, but with her power I'll go in with you to suppress her, if she attacks you?"

"She won’t attack me, but sure, I've gotta show her I still care."

The door was opened and Twilight sat up straight, her chains jingling as she adjested herself on the bench, looking intently at the opening to see who was visiting. With a gasp, Twilight covered her mouth with her hooves and turned away.

"Twi?  Are you okay?  I'm here to check on you."  Twilight tried to sniffle, but a whine escaped her.  "So, uh, did you get the one about the unicorn chef in jail? It was the worst thyme of her life," Rainbow grinned.

Twilight looked back, red eyes and disheveled mane showing her state of mind.

"I'm really sorry, Rainbow.  About everything.  What I did to you, and fighting with Applejack...  It was all my fault and I deserve whatever punishment I receive.  I didn't mean to…” she hiccuped, “ I mean what I did..."  Twilight began to cry as Rainbow went to give her a hug.  Embracing each other, Rainbow let Twilight cry.

"Twi, I don't understand what went through your head, and don't want to.  What you did was wrong and, honestly, almost evil."  Twilight began to cry again, pushing Rainbow back and covering her eyes.  "But, you're one of the best mares and friends I've ever had, and I forgive you and I love you, as a friend."  Twilight looked at Rainbow as she lowered her hooves and sighed shakily.  "And if you ever do anything like that again, I won't stop AJ," Rainbow winked.

They shared a cautious laugh and hugged. “Rainbow, I’ll always remember you and the girls, no matter where they send me. I just hope, that you have a good life with Applejack,” Twilight sniffled with a forced smile. “Goodbye, Rainbow Dash. I guess, I’ll see you at court.”

Rainbow smirked. “Yeah, guess so, egghead. I’ll send you some flowers to snack on,” she leaned in to whisper, “with a file in it,” she patted Twilight on the back and flew from the room.

Twilight gawked at Rainbow as the mare left, smiling warmly at Rainbow, who looked back and winked.

“A file in flowers?”

“Hey, just messing with her, and if I did, it’d be a file on books or something,” she elbowed the stallion, “get it? Huh? A file!” she laughed as the others rolled their eyes and led her from the area.
> For the Love of Harmony
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Having talked and worked out their issue, and being thoroughly relieved that she wasn’t in too much trouble, Twilight had conceded and apologized profusely to both Applejack and Rainbow Dash.  With some prodding, Applejack accepted the apology for the both of them.  The next day, Twilight was running and experiment to find out why and how Applejack had bested her magic with a colander covered with lights attached to Applejack’s head flashed.

The other bearers sat on the stairs watching, listening.

"Okay, so. Two days ago, Applejack and I got into a fight,” Twilight hung her head, “sorry again girls. What I observed was astounding and unrecorded in any history book I’ve come across," Twilight said as she stared at a readout from a machine before giggling and turning off the devices, releasing Applejack from the helmet, and started upstairs. “C’mon, everypony, let’s go upstairs.

She sat on a beanbag in the main library and exhaled while the others sat in a semicircle around her. "I cast a stasis spell and Applejack phased through it with little effort, a soft yellow glow around her.

“After asking her to detail what happened, comparing it to my notes and after checking my readings I have to conclude that the Elements of Harmony are at the source of Applejack's ability to gain temporary resistance to my spell. She and I will demonstrate. Applejack, are you ready?"

“Ah’m as ready as Ah can be, but I’m not lookin’ forward to it.”

Casting the immobilization spell on Applejack, Twilight raised her a few feet into the air where Applejack struggled as much as she could.  "Twi, it ain't working. I'm trying, but I can't make it happen."

"Well, maybe you have to get mad again."

"Ah wasn't mad, Ah was hurt and wanted to talk, then ya started gettin’ personal about mah family," Applejack narrowed her eyes.

"Oh, my. I'm sure it was an accident, right? Surely this fight wasn’t as bad as it sounds.”  Fluttershy asked.

"Oh no, Fluttershy, it was all bok-a-shoom and bloomph and whoosh and then WHAMAMAMAMAPOW!" Pinkie shouted, throwing her limbs in every direction she could frantically before falling over.

"Pinkie, darling, are you saying you saw what happened?"  Rarity asked.

"Yeah I was waiting in the book shelf to surprise Applejack for having a great date with Rainbow, then they started fighting and I left before it got too bad. Applejack and Twilight, not Applejack and Dashie, or Dashie and Twi-Twi. I think that would’ve made the fight even bigger!"

"Pinkie, how did you get in, hide in a book shelf and leave during the fight?" Rarity asked then rolled her eyes.

"Easy," Pinkie said, ending the sentence as every pony else groaned.  How does she do that? they thought in unison.

"Okay, well, Applejack, can you get upset then?" Rarity questioned.

"I don't know, Ah was upset, but it doesn't happen just easy."

"Can you think of getting emotional?  Like imagine something that makes you mad?" Twilight suggested.  Thinking hard, Applejack began to think of things that upset her. Here Ah go. Lemme see, there’s bucking a tree and no apples falling, Granny throwing away a perfectly good pie, Apple Bloom not wipin’ right and then flushing the toilet.  Big Mac and Cherilee in front’a filles and colts-" There was a light glow from Applejack’s cutie mark the others noticed, but it faded when she opened her eyes at the sound of Rarity gasping loudly.

"Applejack, we were getting results, can you do whatever you were doing again, and this time no one will distract you," Twilight said, looking pointedly at Rarity.

Closing her eyes and concentrating again, Applejack began to imagine her Granny throwing away a perfectly good pie.  Applebloom not flushing.  Scootaloo crashing into her while she was selling apples. Twilight giggling while Rainbow softly pressing her lips to Twilight’s." Suddenly, Applejack’s cutie mark burst into yellow light.  A glow in her chest began to brighten and she closed her eyes she saw the room was dark except for Rainbow Dash.  Sitting on the floor before her with a surprised look on her face.

They shared a smile, and Applejack walked forward through the binding spell and landed softly, went to Rainbow, and embraced her as the world suddenly became normal again. Applejack opened her eyes and heard the voices of her friends around her.

"What in tarnation is goin on?  Y'all act like you haven't seen us hug before."

"Oh, wow!  That was so cool how you looked all glowie then walked in the air to Rainbow and hugged her and then poof, you were all normal again.  Can you show me how to do that?"  Pinkie said energetically.  Ignoring Pinkie, Twilight began bombarding Applejack with questions.

"What did you feel, what made you upset, why did you go to Rainbow, how did you walk out of the field, did you or do you feel any side effects then or now?"  Levitating a quill and paper to her side, she eagerly awaited Applejack's answer.

"I dunno," Applejack shrugged, "I thought of a lotta things and then," Applejack glared at Twilight, "what you did, then everything went black," Applejack turned to face Rainbow and smiled. "All I could see was the most beautiful mare I've ever seen, glowing like a blue beacon in the darkness. I just had to hold her."

"Awe, that's the sweetest thing I've ever heard," Rarity cooed with her bottom lip trembling, "I honestly never thought you two would be in love, but now that you are it's,” she raised her hooves to her cheeks as her eyes sparkled, “such a perfect match."

"Well, yeah, I guess we're okay together," Rainbow said as she crossed her forelegs.  With a light kiss on the cheek from Applejack, she began to blush.  The others giggled at Rainbow while Twilight’s pen scribbled on the paper consistently.  "So, yeah.  I love AJ, what of it? I’m not gonna get sappy in front’a you, if that’s what you’re expecting."

"Rainbow, what you shared was astounding.  I have to make a note about this and I'd like to run some tests later."

"I, for one, am happy you're happy,” Fluttershy added with a warm smile, her wings fluffing in excitement. “I think you are very cute together.  Would you like a pet for your house?  Oh, where will you live?"  Fluttershy asked.

Rainbow and Applejack looked at each other for a moment. "Well, I dunno, we haven't thought that far out yet.  It's only been a few days we've been dating and I have the farm and Rainbow has her cloud house.  Less'n Twi wants to cast that walking spell every day’n night, we ain't movin up there."

"Actually, AJ.  I'm not going to have the house anymore."

"What? Why?" Rarity asked.

"Well, it’s a perk from the weather corporation. I don't have a high position anymore."  Every pony gasped in surprise.  Twilight’s quill slowed.

"Rainbow, you love cloud busting and your job is your life, right behind joining the Wonderbolts.  What happened?"

"I got demoted, then told my boss to,” she looked around the group and their innocent expressions, “go rut himself, it was really cool."  Applejack and Twilight pressed their hooves to their heads.

"Sugarplum, if ya didn't have a place to live, you shoulda told us earlier.  If ya need to, yer welcome to stay in our spare room at the farm."

“Most nights,” Pinkie chirped in.

"Really, AJ?  Won't the rest of your family be upset?  Us moving in together after a week?" Rainbow chuckled.

"Well, we've been best friends for a couple years now, so that helps.  We've saved the world, and then the fact we're in love. That'll seal it.  We'll just stay in separate rooms-”

“Most nights!”

“-okay?"

"What about when you want to have sex?" Pinkie blurted.  Everyone laughed except Applejack and Rainbow, who blushed and averted their gaze from each other.

"We'll, uh, figure that out when it happens," Rainbow said making the ponies in the room giggle until the fell over.





"Well, here we are and here's yer room.  Get comfortable, Dashing.  Dinner'll be in an hour and then we have some talkin’ with the family about the rules and what's goin' on with us,"  Applejack said as she hugged Rainbow with a light nuzzle before leaving Rainbow to her new room.

Well, this is what it's like in an earth home. No clouds, solid walls, plumbing.  The smell of dirt and a normal bed...  I guess it'll do for now.  I'll see if I can grab a couple clouds and line the walls and ceiling.

After unpacking and trying her best to get the room setup in a comfortable way, the dinner bell sounded and Rainbow sighed.  Time to start my new life down here, on earth.

Dinner was as fresh and tasty, the gathered ponies eating silently until the end when they had cleaned up before they retired to the living room.  Apple Bloom was laying on the floor next to Big Mac and looked between the couple on the couch with a roll of her eyes.

"First off, Rainbow, if'n you're gonna live here, ng’ya gotta pull yer weight and do chores like everypony else.  Got it?” Granny asked as Rainbow nodded once, her forehooves in her lap.  “I'll give ya yer chores in the mornin'.  Second, if yer livin' here ya gotta keep the noise down at night. No horse playin' and makin' loud parties and the like.  Also, yer time alone is your time, no of need to let us know about it, right?" Rainbow and Applejack blushed and did their best to not look at each other, "I'll take that as a yes.  Lastly, family first. Ya got a problem, bring it up. Another’s gotta problem, help’m fix it.  Ya got it?"

Rainbow nodded.  "I get it, and thanks for letting me stay here. I'll show you how awesome-," Rainbow stopped herself, closed her eyes, and took a deep breath, "I'll help a lot and make you proud."  Applejack leaned over and nuzzled Rainbow’s cheek with hers.

"Sugar, that's the most humble I've seen ya in a timberwolf’s age."  Rainbow looked around the room before hugging Applejack.

"AJ, this is gonna be okay, right?" Rainbow whispered into Applejack’s ear.  Applejack nodded slightly before sitting upright again.

"A'right, enough lollygaggin’, we got family time then off ta bed. Rainbow, ya don't have ta work til later tomorr’a, so yer gonna be with Big Mac in the mornin.  Applejack, yer gonna go sell apples in town.  It’s Monday, so sales'll be big.  Same for Thursday, what with the weather bein’ so nice."

"All right, Granny.  Rainbow, let's make sure your room is set up."

"Granny, are you gonna let 'em go alone to her room?"  Apple Bloom whined.

"They're fully grown mares’n can make their own choices, Apple Bloom," turning her attention to Applejack and Rainbow Dash, Granny continued, "just follow the rules, you two. Ah don’t wanna hear no bed squeakin’ at all hours’a the night."

With a deep blush and nod, they went upstairs and to Rainbows room.

"Well, here I am.  In my new home with my new fillyfriend at my new part-job, with her embarrassing family,"  Rainbow sighed and lowered her head.

"Dashing, Ah know a lot’s happened since we got together, but there's an old saying among us earth ponies.  'A hard season is rewarded by a great harvest', it means that it can be hard now, but it'll be better soon."

"Well, I think I'm having the hardest time ever, so it can't get much worse.  At least I have you and the others."  Applejack smiled and lifted Rainbow’s face to her so they looked at each other.  Rainbows eyes were sad, but still shined with affection when Applejack looked into them.  "AJ, you didn't tell anypony about what I said, about being scared, did you?"   Applejack smiled and shook her head.  "AJ, I'm more scared now than ever.  I lost my position, you and Twilight got into a fight and arrested, I lost my home, and to top it off, I have to live here,” she stomped a hoof on the wooden floor for effect, “no offence. I don't know what I'm gonna do anymore, AJ."

"Oh, Dashing, c'mere.  Let's lay down and talk about it," Applejack led Rainbow to the bed where they climbed up, laid down, and faced each other.

"What am I gonna do?  I can't get into the Wonderbolts, I know that I never had a chance cuz of my attitude, I’m never good enough, and I'm not a team player.  I don't know the first thing about harvesting or farming, and I already feel like a burden in your home and I haven't been here three hours," Rainbow closed her eyes and waited for Applejack to talk.

Applejack leaned in and kissed Rainbow softly on the lips.  Rainbow’s eyes opened when the kiss broke and gazed into the green gems she had fallen in love with over the past week and pressed her lips back against Applejacks.

With a sigh, Applejack broke the kiss and turned over to blow out the lantern lighting the room.  In darkness they laid and looked at each other in the moonlight that cascaded into the room from the window.

Slowly they felt themselves drifting to sleep as they moved closer together and wrapped their legs around each other, basking in each others warmth.  "Sugarplum, it's gonna be okay.  Tomorrow'll start a new day and a new chapter in your life.  Sweet dreams."

"AJ, you are my Awesome-Jack."

Applejack snickered, "I forgot about that, Dashalicious."

“Heh, don’t call me that. I love your freckles in the moonlight,” she yawned, “it’s the first thing I see when I look at you and I really like it.”

"Ah had a feelin’,” Applejack smiled and sighed, “there’s nothin’ I don’t love about ya, my little rainbow.”
> A New Life Together
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

A soft kiss to her cheek woke Applejack. “Wakey, wakey, AJ.”

"Mmm, what time is it, Dashing?"

"It's still dark and everypony’s asleep."

"Go ta sleep then," Applejack said rolling away from Rainbow, nuzzling into the pillow.

"I don't wanna sleep," Rainbow said as she scooted closer to Applejack and kissed her again. Smiling, Applejack understood why Rainbow was so affectionate. Opening her eyes, Applejack smiled and kissed her lover slowly moving a hoof to Rainbows cheek while the other reached under her to pull her closer.

When their chests touched, they felt the world falling away from them again as they basked in each other’s comforting warmth. Their kissing intensified as Rainbow climbed on top of Applejack and laid her weight on her body.

Applejack wrapped her forelegs around Rainbow, holding her wings to her sides as they kissed passionately.  Their tongues danced and fought into each other’s mouths as their bodies readied themselves for what was to come  Letting a quiet moan leave her mouth, Applejack loosened her grip on Rainbow and pushed her back slightly stopping the kiss.  "Dashing, are we gonna..."

"Oh, buck yeah. Wait, I have an idea," Rainbow said as she flapped her wings and flew to the other side of the room.  Applejack laid on the bed looking at Rainbow as she rifled through a few different boxes looking for something. "Flock this low light, even my night vision is fuzzy,"  Rainbow grumbled.

Relaxing herself onto the bed, Applejack felt the passion fading as sleep gnawed at her. "I found it," Rainbow whispered, happiness in her voice. Flying back to Applejack, she kissed her on the belly and worked her way up to her neck before sitting up, using Applejack as a balance. "Applejack, I wanna try something different."

"What do ya wanna try Hun?"  Rainbow sat up and showed Applejack what she had; a double ended two and a half foot long dildo.  Applejack gasped and climbed back to the headboard. "What,” she lowered her voice to a loud whisper, “what the buck are ya doin' with that?"

"Well, it was on sale and I thought I'd try it, but I never could use the other end because it’s not that flexible and now I have us to use it."

"But, Dashing, it's a,” she looked around the dark room nervously, “dildo.  I don't-, I mean Ah never-. Rainbow, I've had coltfriends, but none that I let get that far," Applejack whispered, blushing.

"So… you’re a virgin?” When Applejack lowered her head and nodded Rainbow giggled. “Well, this has two ends and I'd be glad to be your first, since you were my first. Trust me, it'll be as awesome as anything you can imagine, and if not, we’ll do it your way."

"Ah don't know," Applejack squirmed as she looked between the toy and Rainbow’s hopeful grin.

"It's me, Awesome-Jack," Rainbow whispered crawling closer to Applejack, "you know it'll be amazing, just let mommy show you," she giggled.  Applejack smiled and nodded.  So, ‘mommy’ is what gets her going.  I'll have to remember that, Rainbow chuckled as she thought.

Kissing Applejack felt so right.  Her neck was so strong, yet soft at the same time.  Her body was so thick and muscular, yet her coat was so smooth, and she smelt of apples.  Lower and lower, Rainbow kissed as they both moaned with pleasure.  Lowering the dildo, she slowly moistened it with her own juices and slipped it inside herself while she began kissing Applejack's wet mound.

Not wasting any time, she began flicking her tongue inside Applejack, trying to feel and taste as deep as she could as Applejack slid down the headboard and laid fully on the bed, legs curled to her body and tail wrapped around her hip as she grabbed the pillow behind her head.  Biting her bottom lip, moaning softly in her alto voice as the tongue danced against her vaginal walls, her ears tingled and heated at the slurping sounds Rainbow made.

Rainbow mewled as she worked her tongue to the best of her ability, using her left hoof to massage the winking clit that tickled her nose.

"Mmm-Rainbow?  What're you doing down there, playin' with yerself?"  She giggled between gasps and pulls against the pillow as Rainbow touched the right spot on occassion.

"Mphmu," pulling her head back with an obvious swallow, Rainbow cleared her throat and wiped her mouth before continuing. "I'm getting us both ready. Dildo’s ready, are you ready to try it?" Applejack let the pillow go and leaned up on her elbows, offering a concerned look.

"I trust you, Rainbow Dash, but if it hurts or I don't like ot, we're gonna stop, right?"  With a nod Rainbow pulled the toy out of herself and aligned their hips and slits.

"Lay back, I've never done this so we're both gonna learn something new."

Applejack groaned and covered her eyes with a foreleg.  Here I go, losin’ my flower finally.

Taking the double ended dildo she rubbed the wet end against Applejack’s pussy.  Applejack gasped as the end slowly penetrated her, arching her back up she grabbed the pillow again and squealed as it went inside of her until it stopped.  Holding the pillow she didn't move as she heard Rainbow moving and then the dildo began moving inside Applejack again, moving out and in slightly as Rainbow took her end.  It feel so different, but good different. It doesn’t hurt a’tall like Ah thought it would. Oh my, that’s a new feelin’!

Rainbow moaned quietly as she began moving her hips, gripping the toy between them as she moved her hips, rocking it inside Applejack and out of herself, then the other way as Applejack’s pussy tightened and squeezed it out.

Applejack gasped as she felt a new sensation; several of her most sensitive spots were being stimulated in a totally new way, all at the same time. She giggled, gasped in pleasure, then moaned slightly louder as she instinctively swirled her hips to the new sensations.

Rainbow picked up the pace as she felt her connection to Applejack growing stronger and stronger. Letting the dildo go, she began scooting her body closer to Applejack as they both gasped and squealed loudly, pressing the dildo deeper inside their bodies.

Applejack opened her eyes and sat up stunned, looking down her body and at Rainbow’s now winking clit, pressing against hers, each rubbing madly against their bodies.  Rainbows eyes were closed, her wings were rigid beneath her, and biting her lip while moaning and gasping her pussy rubbed furiously against Applejack’s.

Falling back, Applejack began grinding her hips too, the sensation was indescribable as a new wave of orgasm began to build inside of her. From the tips of her rear legs to the top of her head, her body trembled and she heard Rainbow moaning louder that she should have been. Applejack’ss moans began to build as well until they both sat up at the same time and looked at each other’s sweating, panting faces.

Rainbow reached a foreleg out, locking it around one of Applejack’s hind legs to brace herself as she grunted and roared through her teeth.  Their grinding mounds kept rubbing each other as their bodies spasmed and the dildo pressed deeper inside them as their bodies fought to push it out, mid coitus, until Applejack screamed, her own orgasm spasming through her body, sending her into multiple situps until it was too much and she scrambled away, the dildo pleasuring her every spot as it slit free from her body.

Slowly the dildo slid out of Rainbow as she laid gasping for breath, grabbing for anything to hold onto while wave after wave of orgasm washed through her. She rolled over and fell off the bed to the wooden floor, still moaning as she trembled and held her lower abdomen, trying to suppress the shocking waves that pulsed through her without end.

Both mares curled into a fetal position where they were, groaning softly as waves washed over their bodies until they fell asleep. The scent of their love hanging in the air and an unhappy family, awake in their rooms across the upper floor.





The rooster’s early morning crow woke them from their peaceful sleep.

Rainbow gasped as she pushed herself up from the floor and felt a blanket slide off her back, she looked around the room for Applejack.  She isn't here.  Where is she?  Did I hurt her after what we did last night?  I kind of forgot what happened after I started to cum, what if she’s mad or hurt?! 

Getting up, she went to the door, flung it open, and was about to fly down the hall when she heard Applejack singing in the bathroom.

Knocking lightly on the door, she waited for Applejack to answer.  "Who is it that disturbs me while I pee?"  Applejack sang to the door.  Rainbow giggled.

"It's me, AJ.  Just making sure you're okay." A few seconds of silence, a flush, then the door swung open, and Applejack wrapped Rainbow into a tight hug.

"Oh Celestia what you did last night was amazing.  Awesome.  Fantastic.  Wonderful.  Outstandin', Ah can't think of another word to say how great you were, and what ya did,” she swooned, “with that thing, oh, apples and orchards, I’m so glad you were my first,” she nuzzled Rainbow under her chin.

Rainbow blushed as she tapped Applejack in the shoulder with part of a free wing. “Oh, sorry lover.  Sweetie, Dashie, Dashing,” Applejack flushed with color as she looked at Rainbow, “I can't explain how much I love you... Not just because of last night, but because you make me feel something no pony can explain.  I was gonna shower 'fore I start my day, wanna join?"

"Uh, I think I'll go next.  I don't wanna indispose."

"Indis-” Applejack snickered, pulling Rainbow into the bathroom with her and shutting the door with the flick of her tail. “Ya ain’t ‘disposin’’ none, c'mon, it'll save water."  Rainbow rolled her eyes and smiled.

Dang it, she's got you wrapped around her hoof. Rainbow thought as she sat above the toilet for her morning moment.

"This room is much nicer from the inside," Rainbow joked as Applejack turned the knobs in the ceramic tub, then flipped a switch, starting the shower.

“Yeah, funny how much better things are on tha inside,” Applejack grinned, her blush starting to fade.

“Wow, AJ. Just, wow.”





Walking into the kitchen, Rainbow sidled against Applejack. Big Mac snickered as he got up from the table and started walking to the door.  Apple Bloom’s eyes widened as she ran out before him. "What's goin' on with them?"  Applejack asked openly, her smile falling when she saw Granny Smith’s expression through the open partition.

"Young'ns come here," Granny called from the living room. Applejack used her shoulder to push Rainbow away slightly and stood tall, leading the way into the den. When they entered, Rainbow noticed the withering gaze being case between them. "Remember rule number two?"  Rainbow and Applejack looked at Granny, then each other.

"Yeah, we didn't break that rule."

"The buck ya didn't!  Last night, round 4, y'all screamin and hollerin and throwin' stuff around in that room! Havin' yer time woke up half'a Ponyville, I reckon." Blushing deeply, Rainbow and Applejack looked at each other then at Granny Smith.

"But, we were quiet as a mouse!  I didn't even..." Rainbow stopped before she started giving details to the elderly mare, lowered her gaze, then poked the floor with a hoof tip. "I know we weren't  that  loud."

"Girlie, Ah swear I ain't never heard a ruckus like that in all my years. The two’a ya,” she shook her head, the angry look turning to one of frustration. “Now, ya broke the rules the night I told ya, so ya both got extra chores this week. Ya also ain't sharin' a room for the rest’a the week.”

“Granny, that’s-” Applejack stopped talking when Granny glared sharply at her.

“Lastly, no dessert either. This’ fer yer own good, and no more sleepless nights fer the rest’a us. I'm too old to think 'bout what yer doin ta each other and little Apple Bloom can't be hearin' that too,” she sighed, relaxing, “the questions she was askin’... Anywho’s... get ta work."

"Uh, Granny, what about breakfast."

"Sounds like ya had plenty ta eat last night,” her brow furrowed, “now get." Granny ordered.  Walking out of the room they looked at the pot of oatmeal on the stove and sighed as they left to start their day.

"Well, sugarplum.  I love ya and I'll see ya later.  Maybe ya can take a lunch in town,” Applejack nuzzled Rainbow’s cheek with hers before Rainbow took to a hover with a smirk, “ya know where I'll be." With a wave of her foreleg, Applejack went to the barn to gather the cart and apples to sell.

Where's Big Mac? I've gotta help him today. Rainbow thought as she took off into the air. Flying over the orchard she saw him bucking a tree near the center. "Big Mac, Rainbow Dash reporting for duty, sir.  What can I help you with."  Rainbow saluted and stated firmly as she landed. With a chuckle, Big Mac looked at her and raised an eyebrow. "Oh, c'mon, you too? I told Granny it was a misunderstanding."  Big Mac laughed louder than she ever had heard him before. “It wasn’t that loud,” she mumbled and sagged her body.

He composed himself remarkably fast. "I gotta buck these trees. Just pretend they're Applejack and you'll be done in no time," he chuckled his way to another tree and kicked it, falling several apples.

"No problem. I've seen AJ do this a billion times.  It's a cinch," Rainbow said clacking her hooves together. Going to the nearest tree she leaned on her front legs and bucked her hardest into the tree.  "OW! OWOWOWOWOW-WOW that hurts!  I think I almost broke my hoof," Rainbow said as she fell over and grabbed her back left hoof frowning at the tree.

Big Mac laughed loudly again and shook his head, bucking another tree he felled at least a dozen more apples. He winked at her as he moved to the next tree. Rainbow grumbled as she took to the air and glared at him. Oh yeah, he wants to see how a real Pegasi picks apples?

Flying up she began to pull apples from the tree and dropped them to the ground where she heard Big Mac shout at her. "Don't just drop 'em, ya gotta put 'em in the baskets so we can sort 'em."  Rainbow rolled her eyes and flew along the ground grabbing then dropping apples in her forelegs before dropping the several into a basket.  She tried various methods of picking and gathering apples while Big Mac stood aside and laughed.

"That tears it!  No more miss nice Dash," Rainbow growled as she flew straight up until she could see all of Ponyville before descending at her top speed.  Pointing her forelegs ahead of her she began to feel the air resistance growing.  Pumping her wings she moved faster and faster when she saw the cone forming as the sound around her died for a moment.

*KA-BOOM*

A sonic rainboom shook the trees, knocking thousands of apples loose to the ground across the entire farm and a brilliant rainbow encircled the sky over Sweet Apple Acres and dissipated across the town.

Ponies gasped in awe at the sight and thunderous sound that gathered their attention. Looking at the epicenter of the event they watched as Rainbow curved into the air looping over and curving herself as she landed.  A beautiful rainbow colored heart was drawn in the sky over the farm as mares smiled and stallions sighed wistfully.  Those around Applejack looked at her and smiled as she pulled her hat down in embarrassment.

"How'd'ya like them apples, Big Mac?" Rainbow said proudly as she landed in front of the stunned stallion before her.  Scowling, Big Mac looked at Rainbow.

"And how do you suggest we pick up all these apples ya done knocked down?"

"Easy!  I'll take care of it in no time," Rainbow said confidently.  Flying to the end of the farm she began to spin in a large circle creating a small twister that picked up the apples.  She flew several zigzags across the orchard, swinging by the barn to deposit the apples. Landing by the barn, she laid on the massive pile of apples, nearly as tall as the barn, and closed her eyes enjoying the sun on her coat.  I don't see what the problem is, I just did all the picking in half an hour.  Saved 'em a good week at least.

Several minutes later, Big Mac trotted up with a look of surprise and a cart with several bushels full of apples.  Coughing to get her attention, Rainbow looked down at him and waved.  He motioned for her to come down.  Rolling her eyes she went to the ground but didn't land.  "What's up? Here to pat me on the back for doing a month’s work in five minutes?" She gloated.

"Nope. You picked 'em. You bushel 'em," he said with a cheeky grin. Turning around she looked at the pile of dozens of different types, colors, and sizes of apples scattered and mixed before her.

"You mean, I gotta sort that?  But-b-b-b," Rainbow stammered trying to find the words to explain her confused frustration at herself and the chore ahead of her.  Grabbing several baskets and setting them a yard apart he went to the pile and picked an apple from the bottom. With a rumble the whole pile shifted and flattened slightly, covering the ground for a football field’s worth of distance.

Picking one of each type, he dropped them into a separate basket each then nodded to the back wall of the barn. Dozens of empty baskets were stacked, empty, just waiting to be filled.  With a chuckle, wink, and turn of his tail, Big Mac went back to the farm house. His chores done for the day, thanks to Rainbow Dash.

He gets the rest of the day off? I have a million apples to sort. Alone. Ugh, I guess being this awesome has a couple down sides.
Starting slowly, she began to sort the apples into bushels and stack them into the barn.





Big Mac walked up to Rainbow Dash around noon with a small pot of stew. Placing it on the ground by the bushels he looked to see how her task was going and that she was not overexerting herself as she picked up a bushel with a huff, carried it to the barn, and returned with another to replace it as she filled it with a particular apple type. She narrowed her eyes at him. "Now what? Need me to resort them?"

"Nope." Pointing to the open pot he nodded, turned, and walked back to the house.

Well, I guess a break is in order.  There's enough here to share and I could use a minute with AJ.  Rainbow smiled as she picked up the pot by the handle in her mouth and flew into town.

Landing by Applejack’s cart, she walked to her lover and placed the pot on the ground.  Applejack smiled and several dozen nearby ponies stopped and watched the two as they looked at each other for a moment. "Sugarcube, thanks for that display earlier. I don't know if ya needed to do a sonic rainboom to show the town how ya felt about me."

"Oh, that was an afterthought. I picked all the apples and now I'm sorting them," Rainbow said with a smile. " I'm here to have lunch with you on my break."

"Wait. You picked your area of the orchard, right?"

"Nope, all of 'em. I'm gonna be sorting till tomorrow morning, but it'll be worth it to not have to kick trees," Rainbow said making a show of smelling the stew. "Mmm. You want first bite?"

Applejack looked at Rainbow with surprise and disbelief.  "Now, Sugarplum, there ain't no way ya got the whole orchard done in one mornin’."

"Turns out a rainboom works great at knockin' 'em down and a tornado picks 'em up like nothing. I just wish I knew I had to sort what I picked; Big Mac's been laughing at me all day since he has the day off now."  Taking a step forward Applejack looked at Rainbow who had taken a taste of the stew and smiled.  Seeing the arrogant yet serious look on Rainbow made Applejack giggle.

"Rainbow, you really did, didn't cha?  Well, skip a stone across a lake. That's amazing!"  Applejack hugged Rainbow while she was chewing food making her cough a little from the strong legged mare grabbing her.  "Sorry, I forgot; ya like to breathe. Well, let's go over yonder and eat this grub." Leading Rainbow to a picnic table they sat and grabbed a set of communal bowls that were stacked on the table and poured themselves some stew and ate without speaking, just glancing at each other while watching ponies passing by eyeing them.

After cleaning their mess and washing their bowls, they walked back to the cart and hugged each other goodbye. "Don't forget to kiss her goodbye," a mare from the crowded market street shouted.

"I know that voice," Rainbow whispered as she leaned into Applejack and they gave a quick kiss goodbye for the afternoon as ponies around them giggled and other just smiled as they went about their business.

“Rainbow, what’s this about ‘sortin’’ ya keep goin’ on about?” Applejack asked. Rainbow rolled her eyes.

“You too? Ugh, I’ll see you later,” she shot into the sky, back to Sweet Apple Acres to finish sorting. Rainbow sighed.

Now I know I'm getting sappy.  I didn't even care I kissed her in front of the town this time.





The sun had set and Rainbow had fallen asleep against the pile of apples. Applejack returned with a nearly empty cart and smiled as wide as she saw Rainbow snoozing. She approached and picked up an overripe apple and threw it at Rainbow, startling her awake. "Darlin?  I see ya got a lotta work done and you weren't kiddin' when you said ya picked 'em all!  I wouldn't ever believed it if I didn't see it with my own eyes. The barns so full I can't even fit my sellin' cart inside."

Rainbow strained as she stretched and sighed with exhaustion.  "AJ, I don't know how you can do this all day every day and make it look so easy.  I'm ready to take a year in bed and I'm not even done."

"Here, drink some water and eat an apple. No charge," Applejack said as she trotted over, "and it ain't easy at first. Took years fer me and Big Mac to get used to this. Ya can't do it in one day without hurtin’ yerself."  Rainbow groaned and fell to the ground.

"You mean I have to do this for years? Don't you need help doing anything that doesn't involve heavy lifting, hard work, sorting, sweating, or not showing off for hours a day?"  With a restrained giggle Applejack shook her head.  "Great. I’ll just head to the weather office tomorrow then,” Rainbow said gulping the water bottle dry.

"Okay, ya had your drink, now come on inside and get showered up, we’ll have supper ready."

"Hey, AJ?"

"Yeah?"

"Do you have to take a shower too? Ya know, to save water?"  Rainbow asked sitting up but rubbing her hooves together nervously. Applejack smirked and nodded.

"C'mon, Dashing.  I'll start the water." Rainbow jumped up and hovered in the air behind Applejack into the house.





"Thanks for dinner, Granny," Rainbow said taking her first bites after the respects were done. "I can't believe how today went, I don't know how much longer I can sort apples like this.  Green, red, yellow, big, small. How do you make it look so easy?"

"What're ya gabbin’ about? We sort them into fresh and rotten is all," Granny Smith said looking at Rainbow with one narrowed eye.

"Big Mac!  Ya flocking jerk!" Rainbow yelled and tossed some vegetables across the table at him as he began to laugh.

"I never said sort 'em into types. I just put one into a basket, you didn’t ask so Ah figured ya had yer own way," he said. Everypony else began laughing as Rainbow crossed her forelegs and scowled.

I can't believe I got hazed on my first day. A moment later she placed a hoof on her mane and laughed at the irony of the day.





The night was cold and lonely for Rainbow as they slept apart.  Maybe it's for the best we don't sleep together tonight. Every time we make love we lose ourselves in each other. She fills me with so many thoughts and feelings I didn't know existed.  I feel like my life is full and the spot inside me that I always tried to hide by being awesome and being the best isn't there anymore.  I, I think this is what true love is...  I wonder what she's dreaming about right now?  

Applejack lay in her bed, holding a pillow to her body, her mare parts tingling as she thought of her feelings for Rainbow Dash. “Dang it,” she whispered, “Ah’m hooked on that mare,” she smiled, nuzzling the pillow, “and Ah can’t be happier. Sweet dreams, my dashing mare.”
> New Life, Old Ways
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Waking up later than Applejack, Rainbow wasted little time and got to her chores before work.  Applejack was already in town selling apples so Rainbow decided to eat a few apples while she finished putting apples in bushels and then into the barn.  Finishing earlier than she expected, now that she wasn’t sorting them, she asked Big Mac what was next on her list. With a shrug, he led her to a broken wagon and pointed to the back where it had several spare parts and replacements set on its back end.

"I have to fix this thing?"

"Yup."

"Are you pranking me again? I'm gonna finish this and find out you're throwing it away tomorrow?"

"Nope.  Need it for tradin' apples to another town."  With that he turned and walked away to begin another set of his chores.

I better not be getting pranked again.  I'll, I'll, I don't know yet.  But, he won't like it.

Grabbing a toolbox and a spare wheel she went to work replacing the wheels.  After an hour she had replaced the broken wheels and was ready for a break.  I'm gonna take a five.  I think this' gonna be okay til I get back.  Flying up into the sky, she landed on a slowly drifting cloud to take a short nap.





"Hey. Hey! Wake up Rainbow Dash."

"Huh? What do you want, I'm taking a break," she said rolling her back to the other pegasus.

"I have a job to do and you're laying on my cloud."

"Your cloud?" She sat up and looked into the mare’s face with a grimace before softening her expression.  “ Hey, Sprinkle Cloud. Yeah, I guess it is. Sorry, I'm not in the know anymore for the weather.  I'll just go find another."

"That's not a good idea, Rainbow Dash. Diamond isn't in a good place since you told him off. If he were able to he'd probably have you banished from the city skies," Sprinkle mused.

"That plot-hole can't take a joke?” Rainbow rolled her eyes as she flexed her wings, “So what?  He can't stop me from sleeping on a cloud," she stated defiantly.

"Actually, we're under orders to bust any cloud you're on if you don't put in an official request at the office," she replied meekly, rubbing a forehoof against her other leg.

"A formal request? What the flock is wrong with him?"

"When you told him off, Rainbow Dash, we laughed at him until he stormed back into his office. Then he posted a letter saying anyone aiding you in your misuse or abuse of cloud time will have their pay docked... or their jobs.  We can't risk that, you know how much we're paid to begin with. Most of us are just making it by without having to get a second job in this small town."

Looking at the mare in front of her, Rainbow sighed then hovered above the cloud. "I'm sorry... I'm sorry I put you all into such a bad place.  I hope I can make it better, maybe if I apologize to Diamond he'll relax on everypony."

"Wow, the great Rainbow Dash apologizing? What happened to you, keep doing it.  I've gotta get back to work but, I hope you're doing well and we’ll see you around the offices soon."  With that, the other mare grabbed and pushed the cloud away, leaving Rainbow hovering mid air and in thought.

What I've been doing for the past week?  That'd be Applejack.  With a snicker she decided she there was a pony to see at the library.  Landing behind a bush, she grabbed it and pulled it from its rooted place in the earth, took it with her to the library, and picked up a small rock from the path. After the second rock had hit the door, Spike opened the door and got the third one to his head “Ouch, what the… who throws rocks at a door?” he looked up and saw Rainbow’s tail from behind the out of place bush in the center of the street. “H-hello? Uh, Rainbow. Why are you so far back behind a bush? Are you hiding?"

"I need to setup a meeting between me, Twilight, and Applejack tonight at five, can you set it up, please?" Rainbow whispered loudly.

Spike raised an eyebrow and pointed over his shoulder with his thumb. "Uh, yeah.  Did you want to just see Twilight?  She's right over-"

"No, I don't think it's a good idea for us to alone in the same room yet."

"But, I'm here Rainbow. I’ll play peacekeeper," Spike said looking annoyed.

Rainbow looked over the bush and frowned. "And you'll leave the minute she says. I’ll see you at 5," she told him before away, destroying the bush as she left.




"Who was that, Spike?"

"Rainbow Dash; she wants a meeting between you and Applejack and her tonight at 5."

"What?  Why? What did you tell her?"

"Nothing, Twilight.  She told me to set it up then left.  Do you think I should?"

"I don't see why not, just make sure you're quick to tell Applejack, I need you to help make a list of questions to ask now that I have an unscheduled appointment. This is cutting into my reading hours so I’ll need you to help me reschedule my week, if I need to."

With a groan, Spike smacked his face with his hand.





"Evening, AJ. How was your sleep?" Rainbow asked as she waited outside the library.

"Sugarplum, I don't think standin’ all day sellin’ apples works like that, and it seems naps don’t count as breaks,” Applejack yawned slightly. “Now, why'd ya call me here when Ah could be havin’ supper instead?"

"Yeah, I think we need Twilight’s help finding out what's going on with our elements.  And I'm not talking to her alone after last time,” Applejack frowned as Rainbow flew over and draped a leg over her withers. “I need my big strong body guard," Rainbow whispered as she drew a small circle with her hoof on Applejack’s neck and kissed her on the cheek.  Applejack blushed and gulped, puffing out her chest with a nod.

Opening the door they entered and were greeted by Spike who was wearing an apron and placing tea sandwiches on a coffee table while Twilight stood reading from a book. After awkward greetings, Twilight moved several cushions into the area and gestured for them to lay down and relax.

“So, Rainbow, I’m glad you called us here, but I don’t know why, to be honest.”

"Twilight, it feels like we're getting more connected every couple days and the more we love each other the more power I feel like I have," Rainbow started. “I feel new things and it’s not just physical, right, AJ?”

"Rainbow’s right, it's almost like Ah'm using my element of magic when we have sex-"

"Make love," Rainbow interjected quickly and loudly then lowered her head while blushing.

"Make love then,” Applejack said softly to Rainbow as she patted a blue foreleg, “but it's a feeling I get when I'm close to her too, and we were talkin’, but not plannin’ on askin’ what ya thought it’d mean."

Sighing Twilight climbed onto a purple cushion that was very worn and sat down before speaking. "It could be a side effect of the elements. They are about harmony and love is just that.  The only thing is the elements of harmony are still a mystery to us and there's almost nothing written about them and even the Princesses are cryptic about their history.  So, I can only surmise that your ‘connection’ to each other is acting as a catalyst for your elements' power.  I don't know how or why and if you can take notes of -"

"Twi, we ain't takin' notes of our personal lives for you to hide away like ya did with ours."

"Uh…” Twilight’s eyes shifted away and around the room, “Applejack. I don't know what you're talking about."

"The heck ya don't. I remember you takin' notes and all that even while we were in the middle of whatever number you gave our moves and-"

"Girls, please!  Let's not fight right now, I can't have you go to jail again,” Rainbow held up a foreleg to each other mare. “So, let’s just chillax with some tea and let me talk."  The others nodded and Twilight gave a sandwich to each of her friends and took two for herself. "Okay, yes.  Me and AJ are in love and everypony knows it.  Yes, you two had a thing and it was kinda weird so you two broke up."

"I didn't-"

"Shh, Twilight. We have to get over what happened between you two and,” she looked at Twilight pointedly, “what happened between us. The past is the past and we don't live there anymore. So let’s talk it out and get over it. First is why me and AJ are here right now, we have an issue and we don't know what's going on. Help me out with your egg head, Twi. What's goin' on."

"Well, I don't know, Rainbow Dash. I've done all I can and all I can ask is that you both log your experiences.  You don't have to detail what you're doing,” she emphasised, “but I have to know the feelings and emotions you have when this event occurs to even begin a hypothesis."

"Sugarcube, I don't think ya understand.  It's love we feel when it happens.  That's all there is to it," looking at Rainbow, Applejack felt the flutter in her chest. "And there's no need explaining love. Ah’m sure you can look it up in a book," she added snidely

“Girls,” Rainbow looked between them as they both began to give of an aura of discomfort.

"No, I felt it when I was with you, Applejack. I just didn't know until you left me crying on the stairs with my heart ripped out and-"

"Twilight Sparkle, Ah swear ya best stop all the dramatics or I'll storm outta here like I did that day Ah left ya. Ya know why it didn't work out and why-”

“Girls,” Rainbow pressed a hoof to her head as they bickered.

"- know, and I'm sorry.  If I could do it over I'd do it differently and you know that," Twilight shouted as her eyes began to water. She turned away so Applejack wouldn't look at her face. “You know how I felt but I never thought about your feelings.”

"Twi, ya know it wouldn't be any different if ya went back in time and started over then or we started over tomorrow,” she glanced at Rainbow she shook her head slightly with a soft smile before returning her attention to Twilight. “Ya only care about yer books, studies, and yerself.  What me and Dashing have, you and me never can.  That's that.  If ya don't have anything else, my marefriend and me have to go home."

"Wait, can't we-"

"No, we can't.  If yer just gonna talk about old relationships then I'm leaving.  Good night Spike.  Good night Twi. Ya coming Dashing?"

"I wouldn't go anywhere without ya, AJ." Rainbow flew after Applejack out the door leaving Twilight and Spike alone in the library. “Twi, thanks for the help, but I’m not the only one that’s gotta grow up.”





"AJ, do you really think I've changed?"

"A little, why?"

"Well, ever since we got together I've never been happier and had a more full feeling in my heart, but I also just dropped into your life and started causing trouble."

"Sugarplum, you're the best thing that's happened to me too.  And ya didn't fall inta my life, ya flew into my heart. And all that mess with Granny is as much my fault as yours.  I'm thinkin' we should visit the cider cellar if we need to instead of goin’ at it in the house."

"Yeah, I guess you're right.  It's totally awesome being with you, AJ, but if I turn into a burden..."

"Yer not a burden, Rainbow. Look,” she sighed and then smiled to Rainbow, “let's go to the cellar before we go for dinner?"

"AJ!” Rainbow placed a forehoof to her chest and faked shock, “I could never, I’m not a married mare,” she grinned,  “I think we should definitely go there before bed," Rainbow flew in front of Applejack, "after we eat, and then we can go for a walk. Oh, I gotta ask!”

"Yeah, Dashing?"

"Can I wear your hat the next time we, you know,"  Rainbow flew over Applejack and reached for the Stetson just to see Applejack bolt ahead. "Hey, get back here!"  Applejack galloped ahead back to the farm. Galloping into the barn she stopped to catch her breath as Rainbow flew in, stopping just inside the door to see Applejack standing by the cellar entrance with a smile that said it all.





"Ohhh, look who's back?  Rainbow Bash!  Ya here to tear somepony else a new one?" A mare in the back of the office shouted garnering attention of the entire floor to Rainbow.  Flying to Diamond’s office, Rainbow knocked on the door and entered when he allowed it, closing it behind her.

"Mr. Diamond Wing?"

Frowning at her he cleared his throat. "What do you want, Rainbow Dash?"

"I'm sorry."

"Is that all?"

"No, I mean I'm sorry for everything.  I'm sorry for being a slacker.  I'm sorry for being lazy.  I'm sorry for insulting you and making you look like a dork in front of the flock.  I'm sorry for," Rainbow started to sniffle, "I'm sorry for being a disappointment to you,” her voice cracked, “I've always been a coward and I cover it with arrogance and pride.  I talked with my fillyfriend and she told me what was wrong with me and-and I," stopping her speech she tried to stop crying in front of him as she wiped her eyes with her forelegs.

"Miss Dash.  Are you being serious?" Looking at her as she cried softly, he softened his expression and leaned back into his chair and closed his eyes for a moment. The sound of Rainbow quietly sobbing and sniffling broke the silence like a gunshot in a small room.  "Rainbow Dash. I understand and I'm sorry too.  I am a bit of a dick when it comes to work.  I've always had the company. Only the company. I'd blown off my family and friends for corporate events.  My love life ended decades ago... to be honest, in a way I envy you Rainbow."

"W-what?" she asked wiping her eyes.

"You live the carefree life I always wanted. I am telling you this in confidence, by the way."  Rainbow nodded as she looked at him. "I'm jealous of what you have ahead of you, the life and freedom you can chase, or the love you can have.  I do think you have a long way to go before you gain the respect you deserve from the others, but coming in here and talking to me like the stallion I am shows me that you do still have potential to work your way up the ladder again."

"Uh, Diamond. I didn't even think about that when I came in here. I just moved in with Applejack."

"Wow, Rainbow Dash is the fastest in Equestria!" he laughed.

"Well, what can I look forward to then, if I started working my way back up? Can I get my old position back soon?"

"We've given that job to Quill, sorry Rainbow Dash. What I will do is move you up to a level five part-time cloud buster and we'll see how you do."  Drying her eyes she turned and opened the door.

Stepping outside she looked over her shoulder at him. "Mister Diamond.  Thanks for the offer and I'll make you proud.  I'm... sorry about before," she said with a smile as she left the office and closed the door.  Turning around, she looked at the room of pegasi looking at her.

Quill flew over to her and gave Rainbow a hug.  "It's great to hear you're back, I thought you were taking the week off. So,” she winked to Rainbow, “are you my new assistant manager?  I've got loads of work to delegate to you."

"Ha-ha.  No.  I'm a part time level five cloud buster. I get to start in the afternoon and work til my area's done then I get the rest of the day free, to see Applejack." she whispered at the end. They smiled at each other.  "So, when’s the next party?  I think I have a title to maintain."

"Rainbow, you're just the funniest.  We have different games to play next time and it's this Friday night.  I hope to see you both there." Quill winked and turned to Rainbows old office.

That mare has a nice flank too. Tight and smooth. The way her rump moves-  Oh my gosh.  Think of AJ. Think of AJ. Ooo, freckles!





The office was busy but organized as the orders were being handed out at the far end of the second floor’s office. The lines were short and quickly moving as pegasi took their orders and left for their shifts.

"So, first day back on the job after crying to the boss last week?  Ready to do some real work for a change?" a snide voice said over the hustle and bustle of working ponies.

"Yeah, Flutterwing.  And then I'm gonna go enjoy the rest of the day off."

"With you fillyfriend?"

"No, with your mom. She's in Manehattan, right?  I can get there in two hours if I take my time," Rainbow said without looking back at the deep yellow mare.

Stomping her hoof on the floor Flutterwing growled and sneered, her orange eyes narrowing as she took a fighting stance she spit on the floor.

"I actually passed flight school, Crash.  I'll kick your flank so hard you won't be able to sit for a week."

Rainbow laughed and waved a hoof dismissively at Flutterwing. "I don't need to sit with what I have planned when I get her alone."

Flutterwing lunged at Rainbow in a flash making a perfect swing with her right wing and left leg at the same time, whiffing the air where Rainbow was.  Rainbow stood on her opponent's head for a moment before Flutterwing spun in a bicycle kick, missing again "Ya do know I am the fastest mare in Equestria, right?  You'll never get me, so just save your energy for doing actual work."

The other ponies on the floor began to cheer for their favorite pony as the challenge was set.

Flutterwing was a really good fighter and was highly skilled in feather boxing, but she wasn't fast enough to hit Rainbow who dodged each swing of her wings and kick from her legs with ease and agility that was worthy of a professional dancer.

Shouting loudly, Flutterwing reared and opened her wings trying to be as intimidating as she could before launching another round of kicks and wing strikes.

Rainbow yawned loudly while dodging. “You’re getting close, but not close enough.”
"Ladies. Stop this now!” Diamond shouted, startling and quieting the floor.  "What's going on here?" he asked stomping over to the scene.

"Rainbow and Flutterwing are fighting," a stallion shouted.

"Hey, I'm not fighting. I'm dodging, she's trying to hit me!  I'm so not gonna get fired my first day back for kicking another pony's flank."

"You would never stand a chance if you were fighting fair."

"Flutterwing.  My office.  Now." Diamond turned on his hindhooves with fluidity and walked away, leaving a crowd of ponies 'oooo'ing at Flutterwing as she followed him. Rainbow waved goodbye and got a second feather reply from Flutterwing.

"I don't get what her problem is,” Rainbow mumbled to Quill.

"She wanted to be with Applejack before and thought her chance was when she left Twilight. Then she saw you two together she... well, you can see what jealousy does," she gestured to the mare leaving then back to Rainbow.

"I had a feeling it was something dumb, but I’ll kick her flank later."

"No, Rainbow.  Don't be like that. You won't win in the end. Trust me," she warned, "you want to be a better mare, so be better than her and keep dodging with that thousand bit smile."

"Smiling is easy enough, Quill. I’ll handle Flutterwing and we’ll leave AJ out of it," Rainbow said as she turned back into line.

Well, I guess that's an improvement over the old Rainbow Dash. I still have to keep an eye them both now, though.





"Okay, paperwork says clear the clouds over sector 34-51 and move clouds, ugh, from 38, 45 and 50 to 18, 11, 33 and... gosh, I remember why I hated this level of work," Rainbow grumbled as she filed her paperwork away and left to work.

Completing her tasks took a couple hours before she was ready to finish her day in the office. I have to file this crap still. I wanna see AJ.  I have to file. Wanna see AJ.  I have to file.  I'll file. I can't get back to my old ways on the first day. Dill and aged ants, right?  Gotta do it.

Entering the office, she went to the clerk and gave her forms to the mare behind the counter then turned to fly out. Flutterwing appeared in Rainbow’s path, stopping her in her tracks.

"Great, time for round two, Flutterwing?"

"No, I'm here to say,” she mumbled, “I'm sorry. Diamond Wing and Quill talked with me. I'm mad over nothing cuz I’ve got Glittering Spark, so I'm here to bury the hatchet."

Putting a hoof out Rainbow bumped it and smiled. "I'm so glad to hear that.  I can't dodge you forever, to be honest. You're really fast and almost got me a few times," Rainbow said with a chuckle. "I'm really sorry for that joke about your mom.”

"Rainbow Dash, it was kinda funny to be honest," Flutterwing said before looking serious, "but it was a low blow so quick into an argument," a smile returned to her, "next time work from siblings to father,” she winked, “moms are last, unless you wanna fight right away."

Sharing a laugh they hugged each other and both left, feeling a sense of success.
> A New Future
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Both mares panted while embracing just after finishing a half hour of passionate and agile sex, basking in the warmth and happiness that flowed through their bodies. "AJ, being with you has been the best time of my entire life. I feel so good wrapped up with you in these blankets."  Flock, I'm so sappy around her, and that's okay, Rainbow sighed contently.

"Hmm, your wings are so soft and warm. I love how they feel against my coat."  Ah can really be my soft self around her.

"Well, when we cuddle you like to start behind me, so it's always gonna be that way."  Applejack moaned as Rainbow nuzzled her neck.  "And when you help preen them," Rainbow shuddered excitedly, “I just melt. AJ, I wanna remember what we just did all day."

Not the best we've had this week, but I got to wear her hat and was on top. I got to play the rider!

"Dashing? I'm gonna need my hat back."

"I'll take it off when we get outta bed and you take my saddle off,” she giggled and poked a hoof to Applejack’s nose, “and help get this bridle off my face. Besides, ya know how cool this hat is on me," Rainbow said rolling to her back to look at the ceiling, pulling the hat down to cover her eyes from the sunlight encroaching on their early morning exercise.

"It's amazing on you, Hun! Especially with that bridle on yer head,” she purred softly, “but it's my hat and I need it, so c'mere," Applejack said reaching for it blindly while she laid her head on Rainbows chest. The scent of sex and sweat permeated the cyan coat, almost adhering them together.

"Awe c'mon, AJ. Let mama have it for a bit longer," Rainbow said with a slight southern accent, glancing down at Applejack.

"Okay, Dashing, but just til we leave the room."  Rainbow giggled as Applejack pressed her face into Rainbow’s fluffy chest and inhaled her scent.

"So, AJ. What's the plan today?" Rainbow asked looking at AJ as she began to fall asleep on her chest.  Applejack groaned but didn't answer. "C'mon, AJ.  Ya gotta get up soon.   Crows are roosting."  Applejack moaned and sighed.

"Roosters are crowing,” Applejack mumbled, “but yer just teasin’ me, aren’t ya? I guess the same as every Wednesday since ya moved in: Get up, breakfast, we go to work. You come back to the farm and help me finish my chores then we spend the night together,” she hummed, “then we get a bit’a sleep, too."

"Tonight’s the night we go for a fly, right?” Applejack grumbled and pulled the covers over her head in reply. “C'mon, Awesome-Jack, you said you'd go this week," Rainbow whined.

"But, I'm an earth pony. It ain't natural for us to fly," Applejack replied from under the covers.

Rainbow lifted the covers enough to see a blonde mane covering an orange pony and an ear flipped open atop the mane. "You. Pinkie. Promised. Nopony breaks a Pinkie Promise."

Pinkie leapt from behind the headboard and shouted. "Never break a pinkie promise!" Rainbow and Applejack scrambled over each other in surprised fear, fighting blankets as they fell to the floor. "Okay girls, see ya later! And remember, Never!,"  Pinkie whispered as she ducked behind the headboard.

"How the-"
"Buck does she-"
"DO THAT!?" They said together.

"Well, that not only killed the mood but, we're outta bed. Let's git to it, AJ. " Applejack giggled and followed Rainbow out of the room.

"What's got ya so happy, AJ?"

"Just lookin' at yer rump."

"Oh, Luna, not already! " Apple Bloom shouted from her room through her door.  Rainbow and Applejack snickered to each other.

"Sorry, A.B., We'll keep it down," Rainbow shouted.

"Don't call me A.B., only my sis can do that. And Ah'll be down for breakfast in a few, get me a bowl ready, 'kay?"

"'Kay, A.B.," Rainbow said chuckling.  Apple Bloom opened her door and glared at Rainbow.

"I said only my sis can call me that. So stop."

"Well, if we get married,” Rainbow said pulling Applejack into a one limbed hug, “then I'll be your sis, so I'm just trying it on," Rainbow said proudly as she let Applejack go and flew away.

Applebloom and Applejack gasped and looked at the cyan mare flying into the bathroom.  "Did, did she just?" Applejack stuttered.

"Applejack, why is she wearing yer hat?!"  Apple Bloom asked.  Shaking her head, Applejack gave Applebloom a hug then trotted to catch up to Rainbow. Without saying a word, Applejack kissed Rainbow on her left wing.

"Why'd ya do that, AJ? Somethin’ on yer mind?"

"Just thinking about gold is all."

"Gold?  That's a weird thing to think about. Oh! You think I'm gonna win gold in the races at Cloudsdale's Cloudosseum!  I'm a shoo in to win with these babies," Rainbow opened her wings then flexed them several times while posing in different ways to Applejack.

"Sugarplum, ya can't lose with me in your corner.  Now, let's go shower before make everypony upset with our smell all over each other."

They showered and helped each other get clean with affectionate kisses, nuzzles, and ear nips, finally helped each other dry off. Applejack excused herself quickly.

“Dashing, I’ve gotta go get a plate ready, See ya in a minute. Rainbow watched as Applejack went down stairs, her eyes watching orange flanks swaying side to side until the turned the corner and her eyes met with Apple Bloom’s looking at her from her open door.

“You ever gonna stop lookin’ at her like a chicken at a pile’a seeds?”

“Only when I fertilize her fields,” Rainbow winked as the filly reeled in shock and revulsion at the words that turned into a thought, then she lay on the floor and whined as imagery began to form in her young mind.

Rainbow giggled and followed Applejack’s path with a sway that showed too much when the filly looked up as she passed. With an eep, the door to Apple Bloom’s room slammed shut.





"Hey, AJ. The sun's just rising so I think I'll do a quick lap before breakfast, then I’m gonna leave for work early. I got the key to get into work so I can file my paperwork and get done earlier now."

"That's great news, Sugarplum!  Ah'm so proud of you,” Applejack hugged Rainbow, “are ya gonna be a manager again?” she asked with a hopeful look. “Sugar, If they ask, you should take it," Applejack advised as she took her hat from Rainbow’s head and placed it on her own.

"I dunno AJ, I wasn't very good at what I did cuz I was a jerk. I don't wanna go back to being that mare, what if I do and-"

Applejack took Rainbow’s cheeks in her hooves and made eye contact. "Rainbow, yer job didn't make you that way, you know what did. It’s yer anxiety that makes ya the mare ya show everypony, but Ah get ta see the real you, and help you through it all,” she let Rainbow go and continued as they looked at each other.

“And now you have everything you need to make you feel like the mare you always wanted to be inside and out there,” she pointed to the town on the horizon, “so you won't go’n turn back to that mare unless you choose to, not as long as ya have the lot’a us behind ya. Now, I'm gonna start a quiche and coffee fer you’n me, so git yer laps done quick and Ah'll have breakfast ready by the time you're back."

"Okay, I'll see ya in a bit," Rainbow said softly. “You’re not, gonna, you know, tell anypony about me, right?”

“Rainbow, we’ve been over this a dozen times this month, it’s between us. Yer as good as an honorary Apple, and no apple get’s tossed under the wagon.

Rainbow smiled slyly. “Yeah, just testin’ ya. You’re awesome as always, AJ,” Rainbow finished. She ran to the door to start her flight, but before she could open it she heard a hoof clacking on the floor. I can't believe I have to do this.  Turning around she flew to Applejack in the blink of an eye and gave her a kiss. "See ya soon," Rainbow whispered as she lowered her hooves from Applejack's cheeks. Sweet Celestia, I can't say no to those freckles, she giggled softly.





"Hey, Shield, Flutterwing... looking good,” Rainbow said smoothly as she passed them. Quill, we still meeting Friday for lunch? Alright!  Silver Streak, Winter Elm, oh my gosh, I heard and congrats!" Rainbow walked through the office greeting ponies all around and was greeted with smiles and high hooves as she went

"Miss Dash?  Can I see you in my office, please?"  Diamond called as she walked by his office.  Rainbow nodded and flew in, shutting the door behind her at his motion. Taking a seat, she looked around his office. It was exactly the same except the new chair she was in. "Miss Dash, do you know why I called you in here."  Rainbow smiled and puffed her chest with pride.

"Is it because I've-," Rainbow stopped herself, "No, actually, I don't. Can you tell me quick?  I've got a lotta busting to do."

Diamond smiled, sending an anxious wave through her chest. He steepled his hooves together in front of his face. ”I think a level five cloud buster position isn't for you, and it’s time we had a change in structure,” he narrowed his eyes as he lowered his forelegs to be level with the desk. “I have a level 8 supervisor shift opening up next month and it's yours."  Rainbow looked at him with a smile but a distant look.  "You can thank me anytime, now."

She gulped and blinked several times, a grin grew on her face. “What… what?!”

He laughed finally, rapping his hooves on the table as Rainbow’s wings opened and she took to a hover. "You've earned the respect of the flock, finally. You're still the best buster we have and I understand now why you got promoted before I was assigned here, Miss Dash! Congratulations,” he smiled and spun once in his chair.

After a minute of Rainbow doing small victory stunts in the office she landed back on the chair and hardened her expression. "What about pay and hours?"

"Ah, right to business. 1,400 bits a month and full time… with benefit of updog care!"

"1,400 bits?!  That's more than I made as a manager!"  Diamond smiled wide. “Uh, cool about the benefit, but what’s updog?”

“Nothin’, what’s up with you?” he offered a cheesy grin as Rainbow lowered her head to her hoof and groaned. “I had to, but back to seriousness. The company recognizes your skill and ability as well as your image as a hero of Equestria. Your pay will reflect that and as long as you don’t do anything scandalous," he raised his eyebrow, “and your relationship isn’t an issue, so don’t worry about that, unless you have a public breakup at the Gala or publicly insult a popular figure, you’ll be fine.”

“Wow, really? Uh, I, um… thanks! If that’s all,” Rainbow nudged her head toward the door.

"Rainbow, before you leave?"

"Yes?"

"I have never been more envious of another pony in my life. I'll give you a raise to 1,650 bits a month if you consider publicaly representing the company."

She smiled again. “I’ll think it over, but 1,400 is more than enough to live on. With a nod, Rainbow opened the door and stepped out to see a few ponies standing away but not expecting the scene to erupt. Ponies stomped and cheered as she exited the office and closed the door behind her. With a wavering smile, she flew to Quill’s office, waving and grinning the best she could as she went.

Rainbow sniffled as she flew into Quill's office and closed the door. "Quill, I'm gonna need to take a couple hour lunch today."

"Rainbow, I haven't had you request any time off for a month, not even naps during shift or anything. What's the occasion?" Rainbow looked at Quill and felt a tear running down her cheek. "Oh, Rainbow, what's wrong? Did you not take Diamond’s offer?" Quill went to give Rainbow a hug but Rainbow held up a hoof stopping her.

"Nothing's wrong.  For the first time I know everything's okay, and I love AJ.  I need to tell her at lunch.  She's my whole world now and I just turned got a promotion and it’s all thanks to her."

Quill stepped back in surprise and looked at Rainbow.  "Rainbow Dash. If you ever have had a reason to leave work, this is it. Go to her, and I'll take care of your shift."

"I don't need the whole day off, just an hour. Maybe two," Rainbow smiled to Quill who winked back.

"You're a great mare, Rainbow Dash. Applejack is lucky to have you."

With a hug, Rainbow left through the window and headed for Sweet Apple Acres.





"Applejack?  Sweetie-cube, where are you?!"  Rainbow flew over the entire acres but couldn't find Applejack. It wasn't like her to not be working somehow at this hour unless there was a family emergency.  Oh my gosh, what if A.B. or Big Mac are hurt.  I'd better go into town to check, just in case.

Flying into town, she flew over the market, just in case Applejack had chosen to sell apples today but did see Big Mac at the stand.  Her worry grew as she thought the unthinkable.  Flying to the library instead of simply asking the stallion, she entered through the top window and flew around the main room before stopping in front of Twilight.  "Is AJ here? I can't find her and I'm getting worried."

"Applejack's missing and you're telling me now?"

"Well, I don't know if she's missing, but I can't find her anywhere.  And I don't know where she'd go today, we always talk about everything so she was supposed to bale some hay, sort apples, buck some trees and pile 'em to sort, then-"

"Okay, Rainbow Dash, I get it.  Look, she's one of the most amazing and hard working mares I know, I'm sure she's fine. Don't panic and maybe she just had an errand to run quick.  Go wait at the farm for her to-  wait, aren't you supposed to be at work? Did you blow off work to hang out with Applejack?  Rainbow, I'm disappointed in you."

"No, I got Quill to let me out for an hour to see AJ's all."

"Quill?  You mean that party host that has those kissing games?"  Rainbow eyed Twilight for a second before nodding.  "Well, fine. You can be friends with whoever you want. I never got to play in those stupid games and the notes I took were inconclusive, at best."

Rainbow sighed with relief and said a quick goodbye to Twilight before leaving to scour the town some more.  Where would she go? Fluttershy is out of the way and would fly to Pinkie first, Pinkie wouldn't be home cuz she's planning a party or something so that leaves Rarity.  I guess I can tolerate her for a minute.

Flying through the city she turned down streets quickly as she headed for Carousel Boutique, stopping in front of the door she gulped and opened the door.  I hate this place.  She's always trying to get me to play dress up or model her new outfit. Like I don't have more important stuff to do.

Slowly, she flew in and heard Applejack’s voice coming from a dressing room.  What the flock is she doing?  Rarity probably asked her to try on some new hats or silver horse shoes.





"Rare, I appreciate ya for this.  Ah don't want Rainbow to know, okay?"  Know what? Rainbow thought as she stopped before opening the door.

"Dear, I think it's fabulous you're thinking about this ahead of time. Stay still, I have to measure you quickly... Okay, you're actually getting more musculature than you had last time you were measured.  What ever have you been doing?"

"Rainbow Dash," Applejack said.  Rainbow could hear the smile in her words.

A pause before Rarity started again. "Well, I think I should get a coltfriend and see what happens. If these are the results after the month you two have been, uh, phsical are any indication I may never have to diet again."

"It's been a glorious month, Rares.  And I hope it'll last the rest of my life, and even after.  Honest, Rarity, you and me ain't always seen eye to eye, but between up, I never knew love like this was real. My element of magic feels like it just turns on and my heart races when I see her.  Ah cry into her feathers every night and..."

“What is it, darling?” Rarity pressed.

“Ah hold her when she cries, too. It’s so special ta have a real special somepony that ya can be real with, Rares.”

"That's the most beautiful thing I've ever heard you say, Applejack.  I may have had my doubts, but I know you're a great match and, now hold on while I tie this. Exhale!"  There were a few grunting sounds then Rarity spoke again.  "Now, when you two get married you'll be the belle of the ball!"

Married!? To me?! What the flock!?!  I hadn't even thought about, well.  I guess it had crossed my mind.  But, after a few months before we get to this stuff.  I-I don't know what to do.  Should I actually propose? Oh my gosh, what if she's gonna propose to me!  What do I say?  Where will I be?  We be?  What'll I wear?  Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh!


"Now, not to say she won't be the belle of the ball too, so to say.  But, I haven't done a mare-mare wedding before and to honest I see her as more of a handsome stallion than a fair mare,” Applejack chuckled loudly, “I presume it'll be the same as a classic wedding, however I'll have to consult with other ponies to set up the theme."




Oh my gosh, they're actually planning it already! I’m totally gonna die from this, like, literally, Rainbow giggled into her hooves and blushed fiercely, I've gotta go... I don't wanna die right here!  Flying away with her heart racing and sweat beading on her brow, she flew to the farm and laid on a cloud above the barn and giggled for the next half hour. Applejack's gonna propose and we'll get married! Rainbow thought to herself and flew loops in the air until she burnt out and finally fell asleep with a smile on the cloud.

This' the best day ever!





"Rarity, Ah appreciate the suggestion, but this' just a try it on. I don't think she's gonna propose any time soon and it was just talk to Apple Bloom. It doesn't mean she's gonna do it at all. I'm just preparing, ya know."

"Oh, of course, darling. I apologize for jumping into the planning phase, I just love weddings so much” Rarity hummed as she carefully took the dress off Applejack, “so many new outfits to design and all that. Brides mares, best mares, best stallions, oh, uh, when applicable... I find weddings to be one of my greatest inspirations and personal desires to have one myself someday. Well, if we're done playing dress up,” Rarity bowed her head as Applejack replaced her hat on her head, “I have to sew a cloak for a customer."

"Oh, yeah. Of course. Thanks again and remember, don't tell any pony."  Rarity nodded to Applejack before leaving the dressing room.

Those mares may be perfect for each other, but it doesn't make it any easier to know they chose each other instead of a handsome stallion.  What about foals?  Who'll carry them and will magic even work on them?  Oh well, it's their lives and happiness, not mine.  I just can't wait to find the stallion of my dreams that isn't a superficial jerk.





"Welcome back, Rainbow.  That smile tells me you had a very productive morning?" Quill smiled suggestively as Rainbow flew into her office through the window.

"Applejack's gonna propose!" Rainbow squealed and pranced on the floor in foalish glee.

"Woah, woah, woah. Woah, Nelly,” Quill’s eyes followed Rainbow as she pranced around the room like a show pony. Her grin grew as she took in the news. “This is amazing news! How’d you find out, did she tell you she was going to, or you have a feeling?"  Quill hovered and waited expectantly.

"I couldn't find her after I left then I went to Rarity’s boutique and they were talking while trying on wedding dresses and Applejack was talking about marrying me and they were planning it!   Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh!"  Rainbow took in a deep breath and tried to compose herself before talking again.  Looking at the joyful expression and speechless motions Quills mouth made gave only one thing for them both to shout out in unison. " Oh my gosh!"

They jumped and joined hooves and danced in the air shouting, 'oh my gosh!' as they were at a loss for any other words in their excitement.

Diamond opened the door slightly and peeked his head in. "Ladies, what's the ruckus for?"  Rainbow hovered and coughed into her foreleg. Her blush was obvious and flushed most of her upper body.

"Mr. Diamond. It's a fracas," Rainbow said before she and Quill burst into laughter, fell to the floor giggling, and left Diamond without an answer. He backed out of the room and closed the door.

"That was the weirdest thing I've ever seen, but I think they'll top it somehow," he said with a blank look that hid his amusement as he walked back to his office, smiling as he opened the door.





"So, Applejack,” Rainbow spun in the air as she approached the other mare, “how was your day?” she asked in a sing-song voice. “I got done with errands a while ago," she gloated in her nonchalant way.

"Well, Dashing, I had to run to get some medication for Granny today in town and stop by Rarity’s to, uh, offer advice, but other than that it was a normal day.  Missed seein' ya after lunch today.  Coulda used your help picking the apples,” she deflected quickly, looking around the area. “Might rain, but ya knew that, uh, that tornado trick sounds mighty helpful."

"Speaking of tornadoes, let's git over ta Twiligh’ts so she can cast that spell on you."  Applejack sighed and nodded.

"I still don't like it, but I gotta.  I made a-" Applejack looked around the barn as she dropped the last bushels of apples to the floor before continuing, "you know who and you know what."

"Yeah, let's not say those words when we're making out, okay?"  They giggled then as Applejack trotted to the library Rainbow followed close by her side flying slowly.  "AJ, I love you.  I know I say it all the time in private," Applejack shot a glance at Rainbow, "and I’m cool with hanging out with you cuz you're still cool.” When Applejack tilted her head and raised an eyebrow, Rainbow added, “What I mean is that I'm okay to spend a long time with you, ya know.  If you ever had something to talk about, or ask, I'm okay with whatever it might be."

Applejack slowed a bit thinking of something then paced back up quietly. “Well, ya interested in helpin’ fix up the barn?” Applejack replied as she cantered ahead, a nervous look crossed her.

Rainbow is thinking of asking me to marry her. That has ta be it, but it’s so soon! Fastest mare in Equestria, no doubt.  "Ya know, Ah feel the same. If ya have to tell me anything I'm all ears."








"Twilight, we’re here and ready. Where ya at, girl?" Applejack called teasingly, “Ain’t ya readin’ somethin’, oh wait, yer not here fer once.” Spike came running from the bedroom to greet Rainbow and Applejack.

"Hiya guys. Twilight's getting ready for the spell and wants you to go in when you're ready, but she needs another couple minutes to charge up, or whatever.  Want some tea while you wait?"

"No, Spike, we're okay. Ah just wanna get this over with," Applejack said nervously.

"It's okay, AJ.  You're with me.  Nothing bad will ever happen while we're together, especially in the air." They sat on the floor facing each other and talked about their day until Twilight was ready.

"Okay, both of you stand in the circle," Twilight pointed to a magic circle with runes and characters written inside it.  "This is going to work better than last time. I got the ingredients I needed from Trottingham, Zacora, and Rarity, who had some extra… well, that’s not important.  Finally, and most important, I've researched the spell and ritual much better. This time you should practically be a Pegasus for three days. Every time we do this it gets easier for me and lasts longer for you.  If my calculations are correct, if we keep at this pace for the rest of the year you can become a Pegasus for up to a month at a time and when-"

"Sheesh Twilight, you talk so much.  Wake me when you're done but, I can't be late for work tomorrow, okay?" Rainbow rolled to her back while hovering and pretended to snore. Applejack laughed when Rainbow snorted awake.

"Twi, ya know ya talk a bit much, so let's just get this over with. Ya don't have ta worry about this bein’ a permanent or regular thing.  I'm not moving to Cloudsdale or anything.  I'm just taking lessons for Dashing, here, cuz it’s somethin’ she wanted as a birthday present."

"Birthaversary! And I'm learning to be less awesome and more cool for AJ," Rainbow said between fake snores.

Twilight exhaled a controlled breath.	"Okay, quiet down you two. I need silence to get this right. This’ll be like when Rarity got wings, but these will be actual pegasi wings I’ll be putting onto Applejack. Close your eyes and don't move, this should work fine."

"Wait, ‘should’?"

Concentrating, Twilight's horn glowed and the circle burst into bright yellow light.  The runes and glyphs that were practically invisible came to life inside the magic circle.  Raising her horn to the ceiling a blindingly bright light burst forth from the mystic circle, then everything returned to normal.  Twilight fell to her knees panting.

The magic circle was still there but was charred and burnt out, Applejack stood in the center, eyes screwed shut and still wincing from the flash. She opened her eyes and the feeling of new muscles in her back startled her before she opened a full set of beautiful Pegasi wings from her back.  Stretching her back, she felt her wings moving and she shuddered.  "This still don't feel right, girls. I don't know what to do with these things when I do have 'em," she said as she touched her wing arm with her hoof, "but they feel good too."

"I think you're beautiful with wings, AJ,” Rainbow said softly as she flew over and placed a hoof between Applejack’s wings. “C'mon, let's go try these out."  Rainbow hovered and motioned for Applejack to follow. Following slowly, Applejack left the library and breathed in the cool evening air. It felt different, as though she could tell where the wind was moving to and from. With a couple flaps she was hovering awkwardly in the air and below Rainbow.

With guidance from Rainbow, Applejack was led higher into the air and over the town lake. Hours passed during which Applejack learned she had some pegasi powers of sensing airflow, humidity, and of course, flight.

"You're almost as good as a filly in junior speedsters, first day,” she winked as Applejack flapped and hovered with relative ease, “so this time we're gonna practice your gliding, diving and recovery, and cloud landing," Rainbow said with a serious face. Applejack noted how serious Rainbow was at training her.

"Uh, ok, let's go then, Dashing."

"Call me ma'am or I'll make ya do 100 laps around the lake."

Applejack flapped harder to get to Rainbow's level and furrowed her brow. "Ah don't like yer tone, Rainbow Dash.  Ya best relax," Applejack said flatly.  Rainbow's expression broke and she laughed holding her sides and kicking into the air.

"Ya really thought I was serious, you shoulda seen your face."  Smiling Applejack sighed.  "Okay, let's go over to the lake to practice.  If ya lose control at high altitudes it's safer than falling onto the rocky ground."  She took off leaving Applejack behind while Applejack did her best to catch up.

"This isn't as easy as you Pegasus make it look, so slow up, Dashing," Applejack said beginning to pant as she ran with her flapping wings.

"AJ, no Pegasus is a born flier. And sure as anything I’ve never seen one gallop while flying,” she laughed from the lead, “not even me. To get this good,” she motioned to herself with her forelegs, “I had to work hours a day every day just to learn to fly for a few miles. You should be happy you've got strong wings as an adult and you didn't have to start from the beginning. Hey, AJ, do you like foals?"

"Of course I do, Dashing, why do you ask?"

Slowing down Rainbow lined up with Applejack and poked Applejack's side.

"Dang it, Dashing. Don't tickle me or Ah'll fall again!"

"I'm learning where I can and can't touch you when we fly is all.  So far ribs, just under your chin, back left knee and," Rainbow smiled wide.

"Don't say it, Rainbow," Applejack barely threatened with a smirk.

Rainbow smirked slyly. "Juuuuust under your tail and a liiiittle lower." Applejack slowed and glared at Rainbow.  "That was so cool how screamed when I poked you and then you jumped into that cloud and got stuck.  I almost died laughing."

"Yeah, and I learned I can hit you with clouds a minute after that."  Rainbow giggled as she remembered the cloud smacking her face.

"And then it led to a cloud fight that messed up the weather for an hour-”

“And then we took a roll in the hay,” Applejack blushed.

“You mean a swim in the clouds,” Rainbow winked as she ran a hoof down the length of Applejack’s back. She rolled her eyes before she dove to catch the new flier after her wings had closed suddenly.






The water on the lake at night was like the day; still and clear almost to the bottom. A pony could walk into the lake thinking it was a glass reflection of the night sky. Gliding over the lake the two mares took turns taking lead and looping around each other as they enjoyed the wind in their manes.  Applejack had left her hat on the shore and her ponytail had come loose, leaving her mane to wave loosely in the air, becoming almost as wild as Rainbow's mane and tail were.  Fireflies lit the grass around the pond sporadically making it look like flashing stats touched the earth just for them.

Gesturing with her head, Rainbow took Applejack to the skies carefully before leading her into a dive toward the water’s surface. Applejack was confident that with Rainbow so close to her she’d always be safe in the air. A slight angle of her wings sent her spinning slowly.  Rainbow slowed her dive to catch a glimpse of Applejack who smiled as she looked at her reflection in the water’s surface before they turned and began to glide over the water at a high speed. Rainbow grinned and nodded her approval to Applejack’s flying ability after barely a day’s practice.

As they floated in the air above the surface of the water, Applejack let one of her hooves glide against the surface of the water, disturbing the mare she saw reflecting back at her, as the wave grew she smiled.  Rainbow shouted Applejack’s name just as the orange mare felt her body tumble into the water disturbing the entire surface and silence the had shared.

When Applejack surfaced with a sputter, she heard Rainbow laughing above her holding her sides. "I tried to tell you not to touch the surface with your forelegs or you'll fall in! Messes up the aerodynamics and stuff," Rainbow pointed to her flapping wings.

Applejack muttered something just below the water’s surface and bobbed, sinking several times. "What was that? You okay, AJ?" Rainbow lowered herself a couple more inches which gave Applejack the chance to lunge from the water and grab Rainbow’s rear leg and pull her into the lake with a grand splash and short shriek that ended with her submerging in the clear water. A moment later they were laughing and splashing each other as they swam to the shoreline, giggling.

"That was a good time, Dashing.  Ah don't think it's right for me to be flying but, I guess that's just earth pony nature talkin’."

Rainbow rolled to her side, sand falling from her back and clinging to her open wings.  "What do you mean?"

"Well, Dashing," Applejack moved into a more comfortable position on her side and looked at Rainbow, "We're different like, ya know, earth and pegasi ponies.  Wings and no wings.  Farmin’ and makin’ weather.  We're both mares though, and we both fell for each other.  I got wings for you after you came to earth to live with me," Applejack rolled to her back to watch the stars coming out as the sun set, "of all the things that shouldn't be in this world, like an earth pony with wings, we got each other and that makes everything right."

"AJ," Rainbow said looking at Applejack, "uhm… would you,” she hesitated at the thoughts that ran through her mind, “can we get some sandwiches for dinner?  I don't think we'll make it home in time for dinner," Rainbow finally offered with an uncertain tone. Applejack smiled and nodded.

Whew, Ah thought she was gonna pop the question!

They lay on the sand for a few more minutes looking at the sky and the stars sparkling around the crescent moon.  The sand had dried on their bodies and Applejack was moving her wings getting a feel for them as she trotted in a large circle to get the sand off.  Rainbow sat up and stretched and didn’t notice Applejack glancing at her as she was deep in thought about something.

"Hey, AJ?"  Rainbow asked looking at the sky.

"Yeah, Dashing, what's on your mind?  Thinkin' Mushrooms and grilled cheese sandwiches tonight?" Rainbow didn't laugh as she spoke her mind.

"AJ, every time the sun sets and Luna raises the moon, I look at the sky and I see the stars and it's kinda funny,” she cocked her head to the side as she gazed skyward, “cuz, I see them and then I think about you and how every one of those reminds me of your freckles and the feeling I get when I see you.

“I see the moon and think about how I see you in the sky instead of it, well, more your smile because it brightens up my nights like the sun does in the day.  I kinda think I'd rather you be with me longer than the moon can be in the sky,” she laid back down and placed her forelegs under her head as she sighed.

“I remember laying with you that first night in my room and my back was facing the window and I was looking at you,” she giggled softly, “the moon and stars were coming out behind me and I saw them reflecting in your eyes and I kept thinking how awesome it looked, not that I would’a said it back then. Like, for a minute I was jealous because, I wanted to see myself in your eyes, since it was all so new to me. But then the moon rose to its spot and then that was all I saw.

“The beauty of the moon in your eyes, shining at me.  I remember I couldn't stop looking at you and feeling all sappy for hours trying to understand why until I gave in and kissed you while you were sleeping. I don’t think I slept a minute while you did, I only watched the moonlight cross your face and I remembered every time I had seen you and every face you made, smile you had, time you said my name, the arguments we had, races I lost to you.

“AJ, do you think that's stupid or crazy for me feeling every night since we moved in together... that we were designed to be together?"

Waiting for an answer, Rainbow bit her bottom lip. I am such a stupid pony, saying  something so dumb, Rainbow thought until she heard a sniffle.  "Applejack? Are you okay?” Applejack had turned to face from Rainbow and before they could say anything, Applejack sobbed quietly.. "AJ!" Rainbow sat up turning to Applejack and raining sand behind her and into the water with quiet drips.  "You're crying! Oh no, I knew it was stupid to tell you that stuff, I’m so sorry that I hurt you,” Rainbow flew to Applejack and landed beside her, “I didn’t mean for this to happen."

"Y-you, you're..." Applejack stopped talking and leaned in to embrace Rainbow. Hugging each other Rainbow felt the corners of her mouth tugging as her heart ached while Applejack cried onto her coat.

Once Applejack calmed down she leaned up and kissed Rainbow affectionately, cupped her face, then whispered, "Yer the greatest, most awesome, and beautiful mare in Equestria and having you in my life... Ah, can't even describe how amazing you're making my life. Rainbow, ya don't even understand that times like this just makes you adorable,” she kissed the confused mare on her lips.

“Ah wanna be with you forever, Rainbow Dash," Applejack whispered, “Ah’ve never cried more happily than when I’m with you.”

Rainbow stroked Applejack’s mane and back, feeling the soft feathers in her temporary wings. They both contemplated what each other had said.

Marriage isn't such a bad idea, I guess, they both thought.
> So close yet so long, Ponyville.
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Applejack and Rainbow Dash laid in bed with their wings overlapping.  Looking at the ceiling they were lost in thought about the night before. Early as they’d woken up they didn't know what to say to each other to start the day.

"Dashing?"

"Yeah?"

"Don't tell anypony I cried last night.  I mean it, Rainbow Dash.  I ain't cried since," Applejack stopped talking and closed her eyes.

"Applejack. You can talk about it. I've never heard what happened and I think-"

"I don't wanna remember it, much less talk about it, so leave it be."  Applejack turned, facing away from Rainbow.

"C'mon, tell mommy about it, AJ."

"No!  I ain't doin' it.  Not for you or anypony else," Applejack rolled out of bed angrily and yelped as she went, "and buck these wings," Applejack huffed as she walked heavily to the dresser and grabbed her hat.

Rainbow looked at the empty spot on the bed and the few tan-orange feathers that she pulled out when she rolled off the bed.  "AJ, wait. I'm sorry, I didn't mean to upset you."

"I got chores ta do, catch ya later, Dashing." Applejack opened the door, shut it behind her, and left in an almost a gallop down the stairs.

"But, it's Saturday..." Rainbow mumbled. And that party last night, she was totally fun and full of energy, why’s she…

Rainbow flew out the open window and found Applejack as she stopped by a pile of rotten apples in a bin that was to be composted.  "AJ, I know you're awesome and all but, ya know that's A.B.'s job on Sunday's.  C’mon, lemme help."

"For one ya can leave me be for a few.  I got a lotta chores to do so I won't have so much to do Monday."

"AJ, ya can't lie ta me!  Look, I have a really important question to ask you.  Kinda really important, like, change our relationship big,” Rainbow hovered to Applejack’s front and looked hopefully, “can we meet for lunch today?  At the cafe we had our first meal at?" Applejack looked at Rainbow for a second before Rainbow said, "Goodbye and see ya there," leaving Applejack before she could answer.

Darnit, Ah can’t skip out. What if it’s somethin’ important she’s gotta tell me? she gasped and the frustration left her in two heart beats. What if… this’ the day she proposes?!





"Pinkie, I have to talk to you," Applejack said galloping into Sugarcube Corner and stopping with a screech. Pinkie smiled wide and jumped over the counter, over two customers, and landed right in front of Applejack.

"What's up, AJ?"

"Pinkie. Ah need to talk to you in private,now."

"Okie dokie loki!  MRS. CAKE, I'M GOING OUT.  SEE YOU IN A BIT."

As the bakery stopped vibrating and a foal cried in the distance, Mrs. Cake trotted from the kitchen and took her place behind the counter and began working. "Okay, Gumdrop.  Have fun."

"Okay Mrs. Cake. See ya later skaters!"  Bounding out the door she didn't look back as Applejack followed. Going a ways out of town, Applejack began to wonder where they were going.

"Pinkie Pie, where are ya taking us?"

"Oh! I forgot you were there, sorry Applejack. What'd you wanna talk about?"

"You seriously forgot about me?  Wow, Pinkie Pie,” she shook her head, “well anyway, Ah need you to keep this a secret, okay?"  Pinkie looked at Applejack with wide eyes and nodded.  Making her serious face she gave her Pinkie Promise. "Okay," Applejack looked around, "I wanna marry Rainbow Dash," she whispered.

Pinkie jumped and stayed in the air and screamed in excitement for three seconds, kicking her legs, before landing and giggling.  "That's super dee duper news!  So, you want me to plan the party? Or the proposal?  Or have a proposal party?  Or I can-"

"No, I think she's gonna propose.  Maybe today!  Ah just needed ta tell somepony.  This is a life changing event and ya know Dashing, she's gonna be all showie and flashy and it'll be a big display, so if ya hear anything big planned, let me know, okay?"

"Uh, but, what if she doesn't and you just think she is and you should and then you don't and she doesn't then neither of you do?  What then?"

"Uh, then we'll cross that bridge when we come ta it."

"Okay then. I promise to tell you if I hear anything about Rainbow Dash planning to propose to you. Wanna go visit Twilight with me?"

"No, Ah've gotta get some things done before I go to lunch with Dashing. Thanks, Pinkie Pie, Ah'll see ya later."  Separating they went their own ways, Pinkie grinning and planning several things in her head as she made her way back into town.











"Pinkie Pie!" Rainbow Dash called as she flew down to intercept Pinkie. "Where ya headed?"

"Oh, I was just talking to, nobody,” Pinkie looked around the intersection before beginning to cross, “I'm going around town for a bit.  What's up?" she asked as she bounced across the street.

"I need to talk to you about something, but you've gotta promise me you won't tell anypony, until it’s time." Pinkie finished crossing and looked at Rainbow then nodded slowly.  "Pinkie Pie! Pinkie Promise me!  This has to be a secret!  My reputation could be on the line."

Pinkie thought about it then decided it had to be something different. She reached up and grabbed Rainbow from the air, ran faster than should have been possible down the street, before turning dangerously sharply into an alley where she placed Rainbow on a plush purple pillow surrounded by perennials that smelled of patchouli. As Pinkie offered a pastry she also offered her Pinkie Promise Pinkie listened intently.

Rainbow took the pastry and blinked several times at what was around her before she leveled her eyes on the party pony. Random doesn’t even begin to describe this crap.

"Pinkie, I think Applejack is gonna propose to me and I need to know what should I do!?!  I never thought I'd be happy with a mare, but she's so much more!  She's awesome and fun and cool and totally like me only a little as awesome, but then she can be totally awesome and make me all sappy then I-” she inhaled and narrowed her eyes, “Pinkie, you better not tell anypony what I'm about to say!"  Pinkie shook her head, her eyes wide and mouth shut extra tight.  "I got her to cry with me last night. It was amazing and I thought marrying her would be so cool!  Flock what my family and Cloudsdale thinks.  Flock what the Wonderbolts or, freaking, anypony in Equestria thinks!  I wanna be with her.

“But, what if she doesn't propose?  I totally thought she will but, I dunno.  What if I get all ready and she doesn’t then I let her down when she needs me and… I need your help, Pinkie! I need to propose if she doesn’t, and if I decide to propose it's gonna have to be the biggest.  Hugest.  Most awesome proposal ever!  Can you do that for me, Pinkie Pie, but not let anypony know?"

Pinkie felt her body shake and her tail swayed nervously as she looked, slack jawed at Rainbow. Okay, Pinkie, now you’re in the middle of a double counter Pinkie Promise.  A place I hate to be because a little slip could make her lose a friend, forever.  "Okie Dokie Loki!  Your secret is safe with me and I'll help however I can! Anything else, Dashie?"

Rainbow flew low to the ground and smiled as she looked at the multitude of things around her that just didn’t belong. "Pinkie, you're the best." She gave Pinkie a hug before taking to the skies.  This is the start of a huge change to our relationship, if she won’t then I will.





"Hey!  Applejack, over here!"  Rainbow Dash called and waved from a seat at an outdoor table at the restaurant they had their first meal at as a couple. "Remember when I was so embarrassed sitting right there inside?" She pointed a hoof at a couple snacking on a shared salad through the window.  "I never thought we'd be here like this, with everypony knowing about us, and us here with just us... you and me.  Here.  Again." Applejack watched as Rainbow stammered and fumbled for words as she public confidence cracked.

"Uh, yeah.  Dashing, what's up? You're sayin' 'us' a lot?"  Applejack smiled and tried to hide her nervousness as she took a seat opposite Rainbow. "Ya thinkin’ of gettin' a bleu cheese and mushroom burger, or maybe a beet and radish salad, I hear they're really good here."

"Uh, yeah.  Those sound great, AJ, and I'm totally hungry right now so, uh, let's just order something. Wait, I wanna order this time!" her voice rose in volume as she spoke.

"Okay.  Go for it.  Here she comes...  Hey, Lime!  Yer still here, that's great ta see.  Yer lookin' mighty fine and happy."

"Oh, ya think I am," Lime flirted with Applejack garnering a glancing glare from Rainbow Dash, "Just kidding! I know you're inseparable!  So, I didn't see you at last Friday's party for long, what with your disappearing into the bathroom for twenty loud, moaning, arousing minutes,” she winked as the two blushed hotly. “Yeah, we heard pretty much everything, good going, girls. Anyway, I just had to ask before I take your order; since when did Applejack get wings?"

"AJ,” Rainbow whispered as her wings rose to hide her face, “can I die now?”

“No, Dashing. We got inta the heat of the moment and this’ what happens when we aren’t careful, now sit up and let’s just eat,” she turned her attention to Lime, “and Ah got wings yesterday cuz Ah owe it ta Rainbow Dash ta know what it’s like in the sky since she’s on the ground a lot more now.”

“Awwwe, that’s so sweet of you, AJ! I’ve never heard of a pony doing that for love!” her eyes practically sparkled at the two mares. “Oh, sorry, uhmm,” she took her notepad out and a pencil from somewhere in her lime green wing. "What'll it be today?"

Rainbow didn't look at the menu in front of her.  "She'll have the number 1.  I'll take the number 2.  Two fruit smoothies, and water for her with a cup of hot tea for me."

"Well, ya know what I like, huh,love muffin?"  Rainbow rolled her eyes at Applejack.  "Just kidding, Dashing!  Don't get all upset with me."

"Oh, you're just the cutest couple in Equestria! Okay, I'll put your order in right away."  Lime giggled and trotted to another table to take their order.

"Well, what's the big reason you wanted to meet me here for lunch?  Wanted me to pay this time?"  Applejack chuckled and looked at Rainbow Dash for a hint at what could be coming.

Rainbow took a controlled breath. "Well, ya see.  I was thinking, that maybe we should do something.  Something kinda crazy but, that'd be good for us in the long run." Applejack felt her eyes getting wider and her breath quickening.  She couldn't control herself as she tried to not smile ear to ear in anticipation.  "Well, I-I think I need a drink first.  Lime?  Drinks please?!"

Oh my, this could be it.  The moment she proposes?  At the deli we started at. She did order me a #1.  That's a lot comin' from her.  Where can this be going?  Where else besides-

"Here's your water.  And your tea.  You smoothies are being made right now," Lime placed the drinks on the table with her wings and smiled between the two, then left and went to a table inside the deli, leaving them alone again.  Nerves were fraying and the air was thick with silence as they sipped their drinks slowly, glancing at each other every couple seconds.

"Applejack?"

"Yes, Rainbow Dash?"  Rainbow sat up straight in her chair and closed her eyes while breathing slowly again.  Applejack couldn't blink.  She didn't want to miss a second of this moment.

"Applejack. Will you-"

"Yes… Rainbow Dash?"  Ask me, consarnit!

Rainbow cleared her throat and felt her wings trembling.  Damn it.  I can't keep them down.  She knows I'm nervous now.  Just ask!  Do it, Rainbow Dash.  You're the best, just do it!  "Applejack.  Will you-"

"Here's your smoothies, ladies.  Am I, interrupting something?” Lime asked as her smile fell. The two mares were looking anxiously at each other, both sitting upright, eyes wide, and lips tightly closed. “I'll just go, sorry."

Applejack smiled her best but her eyes were locked on Rainbow.  Lime put the smoothies down and backed away to the inside the deli where she peeked out the door to watch and listen.

"Okay, no more wasting time.  Applejack?"

Applejack gulped and leaned slightly toward Rainbow. "Yes?"

"Will you, gotoCanterlotwithme?" Rainbow shut her eyes and fell back into her seat.  That wasn't so bad.

"Ah’m sorry, what was that, Sugarcube?"  Did she just ask me to open a lotta cans?

Rainbow cleared her throat. The words found their way out easier this time. "I, I want to go on a trip to Canterlot with you. Just us. Nopony else. Alone. Our first trip away, together."  Applejack thought for a minute about the 'proposal.'

Well, it's a proposal, Ah guess. Maybe she's not gonna ask me after all.  "I, uh, think that's a nice idea. When d'ya think we'd go?"

"Today at 1:30."

Applejack stammered and blinked rapidly. What?!  What'r ya talkin about, Dashing?  I got mah chores, you got cloudbustin’, among other things..."

"All taken care of!  Ya know how great Twilight is with planning!  I requested the week off from work and Granny paid for the ticket, the CMC and Big Mac are gonna help do your chores and Pinkie  is gonna help too.  All's taken care of!  I even have Rarity and Spike at the station with our bags."

"Wow, ya really planned this out?  What about-"

"Fluttershy's gonna watch Tank and Winona.  Let's eat and take our first vacation!"  Rainbow was beaming with pride and joy as she looked at Applejack.

"Sugarplum, I dunno, I have ta," Applejack looked at the table and sighed, Rainbow felt her joy deflate for a moment, "Say YES.  Hoo-doggie, Ah can't believe ya got this all done!  You're the greatest, Dashing!"

"Yeah, I know,” Rainbow felt the warmth inside her growing at the praise, “thanks, AJ."

"We're in public.  Ya know what I wanna hear."  Rainbow rolled her eyes and smiled as she crossed her arms.

"I love you, Applejack," Rainbow said proudly with a grin and relaxed.

"Awwwe," Lime said as she stood in the doorway looking at them. She felt herself getting weak in the knees. "You are the cutest couple ever!"

"Hey, I'm not cute!  I'm awesome," Rainbow shouted as other customers smiled and stared at the duo, "jeez, ya got everyone staring at us, Lime."

"No," a mare sitting two tables away said, "you are super cute, Rainbow Dash.  I think you and Applejack make a great couple.  Rainbow?  You're turning purple!"  A few ponies giggled as Rainbow blushed deeply and sank in her chair.

"This is the most embarrassing restaurant in Equestria. Where's our food?" Rainbow mumbled. Lime walked over smiling widely.

"It's only been a couple minutes, ladies.  It'll be ready in about 20 minutes."

"20 minutes!  What kinda place is this, Lime?"

"A busy restaurant, silly filly.  So, when's the wedding?" she mused then looked between Applejack and Rainbow.  The tension got so thick it could be cut with a knife as both mares gulped, stared at Lime, and their heads each shook as though telling her ‘don’t ask that!’ "Um, sorry, I was joking. I'm gonna just, go… and uh, you know, check your food," Lime said as she backed away, forcing a smile.

Rainbow and Applejack looked at each other, staring without blinking waiting for the other to do anything to change the subject.

They sat in silence until their meal arrived and ate quickly. Only their chewing broke the silence between them.

"Lime, that was another fantastic meal.  Worth the wait, here's a couple extra for you," Rainbow said hurriedly.

"Thanks, ladies.  Sorry about earlier.  I was only joking, ya know. Yeah,” Lime looked side to side and smiled nervously, “I didn't mean to upset you."

"Nah, don’t sweat it, Sugarcube. It was nothing we can’t work out later."

"Then, why were you sitting here without talking to each other for 10 minutes?"  Lime chuckled as she turned away.  Rainbow and Applejack smiled awkwardly at each other then got up. Rainbow hovered beside Applejack as they went to the station.

All their friends were there except Granny Smith, there was, however, a pony they didn't recognize standing between Twilight.  "Hey girls!  Who's the new chick?"

"Rainbow Dash, don't be so rude," Applejack scolded.  She smiled at the brown earth pony with a grey mane.  "Hello, I'm Applejack and this' Rainbow Dash."

"Hi, I'm Lilli.  I'm a trader, nice to meet you."

"A traitor! Did you escape from prison? You better not hurt my friends," Rainbow warned the mare. The others laughed and giggled.

"Rainbow, a trader is a pony who trades stuff for other stuff.  She lives, lived, out of her cart."

"Oh, that kind of pony, nevermind then, we’re cool, I guess. So, where ya stayin?"  Rainbow asked looking at the train, excited to leave.

"Well, dear, I had an extra room and since she and Twilight had a date planned," Rarity stopped herself, looking to Twilight for a motion to continue.

"We've got a second date tonight, Applejack.  She's really sweet, we should double date in eight days between five and six-thirty!  You'll be back and we should have had our fourth date so you'll be here when we have our fifth."  Lilli half smiled and looked sidelong at Twilight.

"Twi, can Ah talk to ya for a minute?  Over there, quick like?"  Twilight and Applejack walked to the other side of the platform.  "Twi, yer gonna lose her."

"What!?  You lost your chance so don't try to ruin this for me," Twilight said as she glared and lowered her head.

"You're gonna do to her what ya did to me.  I can see yer planning it all out and, darlin’, love ain't planned, it's just happens. Just, don't be you with notes and schedulin’ and ya might  get what me and my rainbow in the sky have."

"But, you planned this trip," Twilight retorted, “that’s planning and scheduling.”

"No, Dashing planned it all.  Ah just found out about it forty minutes ago," she said smiling and looking at Rainbow, who was talking with Lilli.

"You mean she planned all this?  Rainbow Dash?  Alone?"

"Lower yer voice, Twi, and yes. That's what love is, unplanned and full’a surprises.  You get to makin' lists and all that, she's gonna pack up and go before we get back.  Don't.  Be.  You." she said as she poked Twilight in the chest.  "You can do it, if ya just let it happen.  Okay?"

Twilight looked at her chest then smoothed her coat.  "Okay.  I'll do my best to not be studious. It's just, I don't know what I'd do without planning."

"That's the plan, Twi. Now, Ah got one little thing ta ask," she leaned in and whispered a question that Twilight thought over then nodded with a smile. Applejack thanked her and turned back to the group as Twilight thought about what to do.  "So, let's get going, Dashing.  What’ve ya got planned for when we get to Canterlot?"

"I dunno. Figured we play it by ear.  We can either stay at the palace or we can get a room at a hotel. We'll see when we get there."  Applejack looked at Twilight and gave an ever so slight nod that was returned.

"Sounds like a plan!  Let's git!  See y'all in a week, gals!"  Giving a round of hugs and goodbyes, Rainbow and Applejack boarded the train, took their seats side by side, and listened as the conductor made his last calls. They waved goodbye to their friends as the train jerked and began to pull away.

"I'm so excited, AJ!  We're going on our first vacation together!  I'm so ready to do some major shopping and eating Canterlot food and fun with you," Rainbow whispered with a wink. Applejack smiled slightly and nodded.

"Ya know, Dashing.  I'm not too big on eatin' them fancy vittles they have at them fancy places, right? Ah’m just gonna have ta find and eat normal food. And, Ah wanted to talk to ya when we get there."

"Well, why not now?  We've got a four hour ride there, plenty of time!"

"Nah, I think I should wait until we get somewhere private."

Private, secret.  Oh my gosh.  She could be proposing tonight!  What if she had a huge plan back in Ponyville and I messed it all up by planning this trip.  But, when we get back I'll totally get to show off my hoofring.  What color would it be?  Gold!  Cuz it's the best. 

"Okay AJ, I can wait," Rainbow said casually.  Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh, I might get married!  With my best friend!  My… lover and my world. My Awesome Jack!  Rainbow spent a second looking at her left forehoof with a content smile.

"So, Sugarplum. Where are we staying in Canterlot?"

"Well, I was thinking the castle, but I talked to Princess Celestia and they were having a cosumtation of diligence visit from the Griffin nation so she paid for us to have a room at a hotel in the loveseat from the royal coffin.  I think it'll be a room with a throne in it.  Gonna be totally awesome."

Oh Celestia, she's so cute when she uses the wrong words. I'll have to thank the Princesses when I see them next.

"I know, Dashing.  I'm so excited I can hardly wait to see what it looks like," Applejack said with a smile, "Ahm gonna get some shut eye 'fore we get there so I can have more energy for fun," she pulled her hat down and leaned back. And I just asked Twilight to ask fer a hotel room in Canterlot for us. It’s all workin’ out.

Rainbow climbed onto her lap and lifted her hat so she could give Applejack a kiss.  "I love you and I don't care who knows it. I love Applejack!"  Rainbow shouted to the other ponies in the car, "now, everypony knows and we can be cool, right?"  Applejack felt herself blushing as she looked at Rainbow. "Now, get some sleep, we've got a long day coming up with shopping and the royal seat and hanging out with Princesses Celestia and Luna again."

Ponies in the car gasped when they heard. "These two fillyfoolers get to see the Princesses? What the hay?!" a mare said from behind Applejack.

"Maybe you will," Rainbow replied with a smile then climbed off Applejack. "But, be careful, Luna has a habit of playing pranks and Celestia likes to eat desserts right off your plate."  Rainbow  grinned and returned her attention to Applejack. “Have a nice nap, smexy," she gave a soft nuzzle and let a hoof trail the inside of Applejack’s thigh, sending a shudder through the orange mare and a glare that said ‘stop’.

They relaxed and after Applejack fell asleep, Rainbow sat looking out the window as she watched the scenery pass.

I need to see Princess Celestia or Luna, alone, for advice on this marriage thing, they both thought, again.
> A short week in Canterlot...
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Wow, AJ.  This suite is sweet and huge and, oh, look, that view’s awesome, dude!  Totally worthy of us, right?"  Rainbow shouted as she flew around their luxury hotels livingroom.  "I can't believe the Princess hooked us up with this place, the girls are gonna be so jealous."

"Now, Rainbow Dash, ya know it isn't nice ta tease other ponies, especially our friends.  Ya come down here and pay the nice pony for carrying up our stuff."

Rainbow turned and flew to her coin bag then to the bellhop and tossed him three bits before flying back to check out the bedrooms.  "Three bits?  Thanks, ladies," he stated with a forced a smile.  Applejack reached into her travel pouch and gave him a few extra.

"Sorry 'bout her, she's excited is all." He smiled honestly and turned, leaving quickly.

"AJ!  I can see Cloudsdale!  It's right there!  I could fly there in ten minutes before I started to sweat, even. And Ponyville’s right over there, we can see your farm! It’s so small, do you think we can see the family? Applejack, aren't you gonna see this sweet view?"

"Ah’m comin'.  Hold yer horses, we have all week, yer as impatient as a timberwolf chasin’ a chicken."  Rainbow was hovering several feet in the air and not even half the way up the window as Applejack took a look out, her wings fluffed as she looked.  "Wow, Ah’ll admit that it is a great view, all right."

“Hey, if you fall from flying again and I catch you, you know what that means, right?” Rainbow smiled.

"That I’m a great catch, you tell that joke every time Ah’m off the ground."

Rainbow did a backflip in the air. "AJ, let's go do something!  We didn't come here to look out a window, did you notice this sweet suite is as big as the first floor of home? I know what to do, let's fly to the market and get some dinner.  I'm starving, look at me," Rainbow pointed to her belly which was a bit distended from snacking on the train, a sandwich on the taxi ride to the hotel, chips in the elevator up, and a banana when she entered the room from the complimentary gift basket. Applejack rolled her eyes.

Flying up, Rainbow opened a pony sized window above the bedroom window they were looking through. "C'mon, AJ, every hotel has these. Don’t worry, they lock so nopony can get in without the key. C’mon! Lemme see you flap those pretty wings."

Applejack looked back to her slightly lighter than her coat colored wings then opened them, hesitantly.  "Ya know, why don't we just walk there?  We'll see more sights that way.” Rainbow gave a dismissive look and Applejack sighed.  With a couple controlled, well practiced flaps, she was in the air and followed Rainbow out into the skies of Canterlot.  The view was astonishing as the full spectrum of the sun setting coated the western sky and the city spread beneath them. Applejack exhaled in awe while Rainbow looked back at her.

"AJ, this view is why it's so great to fly; it's why I almost never touch the ground unless I have to.  The earth is so hard and doesn't move right, it’s bad on my hooves, and worse of all it’s freakin’ dirty,” she looked at her hooves and forelegs, “but up here," Rainbow spun like a bullet ahead before arcing and looping back to Applejack's side.  "You can't get this freedom on the ground, no offense; the sights and the smells; the air rushing past your body and through your mane and tail… it’s amazing, AJ, right?"

With a giggle into her hoof, Applejack said, "You should write that down, it'd make any earth pony wanna fly at least once, Miss Awesome."

"I just might, migh... " she replied confident as she stared.

"What're you goin’ on about, Dashing?"

"You're why I'm so awesome, AJ.  You’re the pony I can be me around, and the reason I’m in love with such a beautiful mare,” she turned and led them west, away from the market, Applejack noted, “compared to you, that sunset is just grey and all, blah, ya know? You’re like, like, the color in my mane cuz you make me me.

“AJ, you're the only pony who makes me happy to be sappy, and I might deny it sometimes, but  you're always more awesome than I can pretend to be," Rainbow said thoughtfully as she scanned the sky. Looking down she saw Applejack descending quickly and dove after her.  "AJ?  Are you okay?  Why'd you land?  Are you getting a wing cramp again?  I can rub it out," Rainbow asked as she glided behind Applejack.

“Rainbow, Ah’m just so lucky to have you. Let’s get ta dinner,” Applejack said as she turned to Rainbow and hovered well above the cityscape.  "I'm gonna talk with you about something really important when we get back, somethin’ Ah know I can trust you ta know, okay Sugarplum?"

"Uh, yeah.  That's a plan, so, follow me to dinner?"  Rainbow guided her to the east and they went to the market.  "So, AJ.  Lots of fancy ponies here, lots of fancy food wagons, too.  What're ya feeling? I kinda wanna try that place, 'Soup de Jour?'"

"Sounds fancy, but what's it mean?  I don't wanna pay 30 bits for a leaf of lettuce on some blue soup."

"There's a picture of soup on the side of the wagon, so I think it's a soup and sandwich place.  C'mon... Fritter, let's go!"  Rainbow flew over as Applejack followed.

Fritter?  She's never called me that before.  She sounded like she practiced it, I think this is the start of a real change, she smiled,  Apple Fritter, she called me that time. It’s gotta be a sign she’s takin’ us to the next level...  Maybe she is gonna propose before we leave. Afterall, Ah've never known her to put so much effort into anything outside’a sports and struttin’ around as she has this here trip.





"That was crazy expensive!  60 bits for two soups and salads and who the flock charges five bits for a cup of friggin’ water.  I'm never eating in Canterlot Main again,” she frowned as she hovered beside the now trotting Applejack, “thought this was a market, not a freakin’ rip off street. C’mon, Fritter, you totally agree, right? I say we go to the market outside the city next time. We can't afford this crap!" she returned a glare a couple of overdressed locals gave her.

"Them vittles were okay, but the grub in Ponyville's cheaper, tastier, and more fillin’. Now Ah know why there ain’t a pony with a Zebracan rump as far as Ah’ve ever seen,” she mumbled the last part that Rainbow couldn’t help but hear. “Let's just get back to the hotel.”

“AJ, look, a zebra!” Rainbow pointed and watched as Applejack’s wings opened, her ears perked, and her eyes scanned the area where Rainbow was pointing. Rainbow fell to the ground laughing as Applejack realized she was the butt of a joke.

“Rainbow Dash, that was just mean,” she said stomping her hooves as she cantered away, chin held high and fighting her wings to lower.

Rainbow flew after and wiped a tear from her eye. “So, should I talk to Zacora for you?” She received a frown in response. “Stars, that’s awesome. I never would’a thought you had a thing for Zacora, I mean I totally can see it now! How you looked at her from the start, even when you grabbed her ear was kinda-”

Applejack snapped. “Rainbow Dash, shut it! Ah swear if ya make one more joke Ah’ll head home on the next train outta here.”

Rainbow looked around at the ponies that’d stopped to watch. “Uh, dude, you’re like, really sensitive about that, huh?” The fierce glare was a decent answer. “Look, I’m sorry, can we talk about it back at the suite?”

Applejack snorted and returned to a march in silence.

Applejack fumed for a block until she felt her hat leave her head. She looked up at Rainbow’s sly grin. “Got yer hat.”

“Gimme that back, ya rascal!”

“Make me!” she put it on her head and flew higher. “Nya-nya, let’s see you use them wings, or did I ground ya?”

“Ground?!” Applejack jumped and flapped her wings, cutting through the air like a sword in an expert grip.

Rainbow yelped and turned to fly away, easily outpacing her pursuer. She looked back and grinned as she was chased through the sky, spiraling around a building and past a flying guard. “’Scuse me, playing tag!”

“Keep it civil or-” he managed before Applejack passed by him and sent him into a short spin. “Meh,” he waved a hoof, “freakin’ mares.”

“Heh, you’re gonna have to do better than that to get my hat, Fritter!”

“Why you, ya know that’s my hat! Give it back, ya varmint,” she shouted, then smiled when Rainbow turned back to her flight. “Ah’ll make ya eat it with mustard, ya overgrown peacock.”

“Make it hot sauce and I might think about letting you catch my draft!” They started laughing as they flew, after a few minutes they were side by side in the air. “Okay, we’re alone now, why the zebra fetish?”

“Rainbow, it’s not a fetish. Ah just like their size is all, they’re,” she smiled, “well rounded.” Rainbow slowed and pouted. What’s wrong Dash?”

“You, don’t think I’m too skinny, don’t you?”

“Rainbow-”

“Rarity and everypony was right… I’m just a skinny, garish, over muscled, colorful freak!”
She shot up into the sky faster than Applejack could ever hope to keep up with. She saw a cloud the size of a seed high up and gulped as she began to follow her up.

Several minutes later she landed on the cloud, panting heavily and gulping dry breaths. “Rain-Rainbow, what the, hay, are ya,” she felt her legs tremble and give out suddenly. With a yelp she tumbled over the edge and before she could clear the bottom of the cloud she was in Rainbow’s forelegs.

“AJ, my fritter, I know you’re a catch and all, but you really shouldn’t be up this high,” she smiled as Applejack wrapped her hooves around the cyan neck and held on tight. “Let’s get you your breath back.” Landing Applejack in the center of the cloud, Rainbow expanded the cloud and lay next to the exhausted mare. “So why’d you follow me, I would’a been back to the hotel before too late. I mean the moon’s barely up.” Rainbow gathered some cloud between her hooves and held it out to Applejack. “Eat it, it’s almost all water. Not always, but I packed some extra in this one for you.”

She opened her mouth and took a bite, smiling afterwards as she took another and then the final bite with a gulp. “Wow, that’s good eats,” she inhaled air and exhaled some cloud wisps. “Now, why’d ya go and get all ornery?”

“AJ, look, I know I’m not that great to look at, I’m too skinny, I don’t even have a rump cuz I’m so freakin’ muscled up,” Rainbow looked to the cloud they perched on and pouted. “I just wonder why you’re really with me.” Applejack gasped. “I mean, is it cuz I wanna be famous, or to brag to the other ponies at the parties? Are you just trying to get with all of us so you can-” she was silenced by a slap across her face.

“Now ya listen here, Rainbow Dash, Ah swear if ya talk about me bein’ promiscuous Ah’ll have more for ya than the soft part of my hoof across yer face. Now,” she looked up in thought, “Ah’ve known fer a while ya’ve got a scare inside ya about lettin’ us down, but Ah never would’a imagined you were so hard on yerself.

“Rainbow, look into my eyes and ask yerself if you believe I’m only with ya fer some stupid reason like yer future fame.” Rainbow bit her top lip but didn’t say anything. “And as fer that whole skinny business Ah say horseapples. Yer what ya need to be ta fly so fast and be as flexible as ya are,” she smirked and a slight smile replaced the lip biting and pouting. “And muscles? Are ya foolin’ me? Why, I’ve got more muscles than Big Macintosh and no pony complains, but yer not me, Rainbow,” she leaned in and placed her cheek against Rainbow’s, “you have the sexiest flank muscles Ah’ve ever seen.”

Rainbow gulped and nuzzled Applejack slightly. “Do I, really? It’s not too flat? Cuz I know mares that have bigger flanks than me and even before us, I looked.”

“Rainbow, it ain’t the size of yer flanks Ah fell for. Ah told ya before and Ah’ll tell ya til the last day I breathe that I see what’s in yer heart and who ya are as a living creature way before Ah thought about… well, not right after I noticed yer slim, petite, smooth body, but Ah know ya learned quick that yer a pony Ah’d wait forever for.”

“Heh,” Rainbow looked at Applejack, in her eyes and saw herself reflected back, “you noticed my body first and you still wanted to know me?” she playfully shoved the other mare, “you’re too sappy to make fun of. So, what’d you wanna do to my slim body when you saw me?”

“Oh, ya know, feel ya against me in hugs and nuzzles some days, others Ah wanted ta wring yer neck and knock some sense into ya.” Rainbow waggled her eyebrows and smirked sardonically. “Fine, Ah had a thing about you’n me a few times. Okay, fine, a lot. But only when you weren’t bein’ a darned fool.”

Rainbow laughed and pulled Applejack into a hug. “I’m your fool, Fritter. And, I know I have some problems, but can you help me when I get this way?”

“Heh, everyday and every time, darlin’. So, what say we get to a more normal height, like hooves on the ground, and make it back to the hotel?”

“Sounds good to me. I’m better now and… race you to the ground!” she rolled twice and fell over the edge as Applejack gulped and carefully moved to the edge herself and looked over. Her legs trembled as vertigo struck her, her wings closing tighter to her body.

“Rotten apples, Ah might be stuck up here and Ah don’t have a way to call fer help… Stars, what do Ah do now?”

“You could just ask,” Rainbow’s voice shouted from below her. Her head poked from the middle of the cloud with a cocky grin. “Sheesh, you really think I’d leave you up here and all alone with your fear of heights? Have some faith in me, AJ. I’m… here for you, too. Thanks, for before,” Applejack nodded and Rainbow returned it before her head diappeared into the cloud and she reappeared beside it. “Hang on, I’ll still take it slow, but no reason to risk it, right?”

Applejack laid down on her side and relaxed as the cloud was pushed from such heights that she’d never thought they existed to above the cityscape. It’s like ridin’ a wave on a boat. I could just fall asleep, she yawned.

“Hey, we’re as close to the ground as we can get without being fined. Hop off and let’s get back.”

Applejack gladly opened her wings and glided to the street, resisting the urge to kiss the cobblestone when she touched it with her hooves. “Wait, Dashing, I gotta buy somethin' quick, can we meet back in the hotel in an hour?"

"Can't I come with you?  I totally wanna spend all week with you, and I like shopping, too.  I mean, not as much as Rarity, but I like it."

"It's a surprise, honey.  And Ah need to use my legs after so much time lazin’ around. Go buy something, the Princesses'll pay us back, Ahm sure.  Just save the receipts and we'll ask 'em before we leave."

"What kinda surprise?  Is it big?  Shiny?  Tasty? Or are you getting something for before bed?"

"Dashing, you'll love it either way.  See ya soon!" Applejack said as she turned to gallop off.

Rainbow watched and gulped. What if she’s buying something to make a proposal. What would she get? A shoe, maybe a hoof cover. She doesn’t seem like she’d know about traditional pegasi stuff. Besides, I wouldn’t wear a wreath made of something off her body to show off. She’s an earth pony, what’d it be, tail hair?  Rainbow giggled as she took a seat at a bench nearby and waited.

"Dashing, wake up, sleepy head!  Let's get back, we got stuff to talk about." She opened ruby eyes and stretched let legs, her wings opened and with a yawn she was hovering. Applejack turned and started walking way the wrong way.

"Wait, AJ.  You're gonna get lost again.  Follow me," Rainbow  grumbled as she turned left and slowly flew up. SHe looked back down below her when Applejack called her name and pointed ahead of herself. Rainbow looked around and shrugged, turning to fly down Applejack’s path. She led them back to the hotel where she became more alert in the elevator.

“Hey, AJ, we totally gotta get one’a these in Ponyville. I know, you’re gonna say ‘but Dayush, where we gunna poot eyut’, and I say city hall is big enough… what?”

“Don’t make fun’a the way I talk, Rainbow Dash. Ah won’t play that game,” Applejack narrowed her eyes and wings ruffled with instinct she didn’t know she had.

Rainbow picked up on the signals and clamped her muzzle shut with a nod. She knew when a unicorn was upset because their horns would glow slightly, earth ponies would tense their hind leg muscles in preparation for a buck that could topple trees in a single strike, and pegasi would ruffle their wing feathers.

Applejack was a combination of two tribes and has one of the strongest earth pony bucks she’d ever seen. Definitely not doing that again, ever, Rainbow landed and lowered her head, keeping her gaze on Applejack in a submissive position. Applejack reached and lifted Rainbow’s chin. “Don’t be like that, Ah’m not gonna hurt ya, just a bit miffed.”

“Yeah, I got that.” The elevator chimed just as the doors opened. She smiled as Applejack nuzzled her and they left the elevator to the door leading into their suite. Applejack opened the door and entered first with Rainbow slowly behind. They split up and Rainbow went into the bathroom while Applejack trotted to the bed and slipped something from under a wing and inside her hat under one of the nine huge bed pillows.

A flush, the running of water, and flap later, Rainbow was hovering over the bed where Applejack sat in the center of the bed. “So, what’s the plan, AJ? We gonna do it, or what?”

“Rainbow, Ah have somethin’ ta tell ya that really, no pony knows outside’a my family.”

“Oh, okay… is this about them?”

Applejack nodded and Rainbow landed, nestling into the bed and giving her attention to the orange mare in front of her.

"Dashing.  My parents died... by poison."  Rainbow’s ears drooped and she moved to Applejack’s side, draping a wing over her.

"I'm so sorry, AJ.  Do you know who or why?"

"That's the thing.  They went into the Everfree to look for some seeds to grow some new crops, what was the way we did things back then, and when they came out they said they felt sick.  That night they were," Applejack nuzzled her head into Rainbow’s shoulder. "They died at the dinner table at darn near the same time.  A.B. was too young to remember but I'll never forget them coughing like mad then poppa fell face first into his stew and mom.  Mama," Rainbow felt tears soaking into her coat and Applejack trembled as she continued, "mama was grabbin’ her stomach, cryin’ somethin’ fierce and fell over, throwing up on the floor, then that was it.  They were gone just like that."

"Oh, Applejack, I'm so sorry.  I didn't know."

"I thought it was Zacora at first, that's why I helped spread rumors that she was an evil witch and enchantress,” she pulled back and looked sadly at Rainbow, “Ah didn’t know her so it just seemed right. When we met her for the first time I guess I realized since A.B. trusted her, she was okay and Ah did my best ta make amends, and even ate supper with her once, leadin’ her on but she turned me down real nice-like and we’ve been on equal ground since.

“My parents though. The thought was they must've eaten some bad food or something in the woods, but it doesn't ever get easier.  It's always on my mind whenever I go near that cursed forest and when I think of what happened to ‘em, Ah feel a hate I can't explain, I can't-"  Applejack finally started to cry as she tightly grabbed Rainbow into a hug that squeezed the air from her.

"AJ, air… need breathe,” she gasped air in as she was held less tightly, “Applejack, what's happened can't be fixed. You told me that once and… I love you and we, I need you to live with me, now, Applejack.  I'm here for you and so are all our friends."

"That's the thing, Dash.  I can't tell them how my parents died, Ah just can't, the memory of mama and papa...  idea I couldn't get off my mind months; Granny holding me an’ Big Mac when we cried all night and day for a week. Ah couldn't eat stew for years and Ah even tried to move to Manehattan ta get away from the pain, but I saw your rainboom and it reminded me that home is where my heart is. Maybe," she sniffled, “that’s why I love ya now. Yer my home, Rainbow. From the moment I saw that rainboom ya filled my heart with warmth and love,” she leaned in to kiss Rainbow and what started as a soft brushing of lips led to a passionate affair that sent arousing warmth and tingles to both their back ends and their tails swished audibly.

The kiss broke and Rainbow sighed sadly. “I get it now, AJ, I know why you work hard, but I've seen you work yourself sick a few times.  You gotta take a break sometimes and I shouldn't have to plan a surprise vacation for you to get away. The world shouldn't have to be in danger and you shouldn't have a family emergency to take a break from work and chores. AJ, when you're gone the farm does just fine, and it will keep doing fine and running if you stop working as hard as you do. I don't want you to get hurt, AJ."

Applejack smirked. “Ah ain’t gettin’ hurt. This’ what Ah do to support the family. If Ah work hard it means Ah can be done early and spend the rest’a my time with y’all and restin’ up."

“You don’t get it, AJ; you’re always tired, even if you don’t show it. AJ… I,” her eyes widened, “you’re my world, AJ, and I can’t live without you in it. Please, stop working so hard, you kinda, ya know, scare me sometimes with how hard you work.”

“Rainbow, Ah had no idea ya felt that way,” she placed a hoof on Rainbow’s cheek, “Ah won’t promise, but Ah’ll try ta take it down a bit. Ah wouldn’t hurt you, and didn’t think that workin’ so hard could scare ya so much.”

“It’s not like I don’t think it’s hot and all that to see you get sweaty and smelly and all that, but then I sometimes think of what’ll happen if you hurt yourself working and it kinda turns off my juice, ya know.”

Applejack hummed a laugh. “Fine by me. Ah’ll slow down on the work a bit, but it’ll take a while ta get used ta it.”

“Deal,” Rainbow leaned in and kissed her softly. “So, can we watch some TV or something? I mean, we’re in Canterlot and should use some of this fancy stuff,” she said changing the topic and scampered down the bed grabbing a remote.

“I dunno, electricity is still kinda weird ta me, Ah don’t know if I can keep up with all this stuff.”

“AJ, it’s the future.  Go with it!  You have wings, lights work in the dark without bugs or fire that can burn houses down if you forget them, and movies are in bedrooms at fancy places like this! It’ll be all over Equestria before we know it, so let’s just enjoy being the first to use it.”  Rainbow held the remote and pressed a button.  A loud click sounded and the TV turned on with a loud whistle as electricity shot through the vacuum tubes.  “So, four freaking channels on this baby, let’s see what on.”
> ...a memorable first night
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Flipping through stations, Rainbow started at one and sat with rapt attention until the third advertisement came on. “Ugh, lame, next,” channel two had a dramatic scene with an earth and unicorn pony reenacting a play. With a click her ears perked at a cartoon based on a comic she’d read… when she was a filly. She clicked to channel four and turned the television off. “Just what I need, a nature channel… four stations and nothing’s on. I wish we had like, two hundred. There’d be tons of stuff to watch.”

“Well, yeah, Ah heard the shows change by the hour so ya gotta wait. We could always catch a show or play, ya know.”

“Ugh, now what’ll we do?” she fell back onto the bed and looked into Applejack’s half lidded eyes. “Ohhh yeah, that,” she rolled to her belly and crawled to Applejack, starting with a kiss. “Hey, AJ?”

“Yeah,” Applejack replied in a breathy voice.

Rainbow sat up with a smile. “Let’s play cards! Go fish? Cutie mark matchup? Winner gets to choose who does what the next time we slap tails and rub plots like wild beasts?”

Applejack’s expression changed from disappointment to surprise as she shoved Rainbow, then with a lunge had pulled Rainbow into a kiss that quickly broke with a laugh from them both. “Ya pain in my rump,” Applejack said and pulled Rainbow’s head toward her own into a deeper kiss. Her tongue passed her lips and brushed against Rainbow’s, sending a shiver through them both as Rainbow’s lips parted and she felt Applejack’s tongue glide into her mouth.

A moment of quiet noises of kissing and shuffling on the bed were broken by Applejack. “Rainbow,” she slid her hoof across her cheek, “still wanna watch TV?”

Rainbow’s arousal was spiking, her tail was wrapped around her side, fully exposing herself, and her eyes had yet to open. “Shut up and kiss me,” she whispered softly.

Their lips touched, brushing softly twice before they opened and the sound of kissing was the only sound for thirty seconds. Their tongues danced inside each other’s mouths and both pony’s wings extended in arousal as their muscled contracted, their breathing increased, and giddy smiles crossed them as they smelled each other’s readiness.

Rainbow wrapped her forelegs around Applejack’s neck and pulled, guided her, as she moved her wings and lay on her back. Applejack crawled with the kiss and pull until she was on top of Rainbow, leaving one of Rainbow’s hindlegs between hers. They both moved their knee at the same time, pressing and rubbing their soft fur against each other’s vulvas. Trembling as they repeated the action, Applejack broke the kiss and began kissing Rainbow’s cheek, then nibbled her ear, the hot breath sending a flood of heat to her nethers.

“Ya like that, dontcha?”

Rainbow nodded as she reveled in the attention she was getting. “C-can you hurry up? I’m so hot right now.”

“Nope. Ah told ya Ah’d teach you about takin’ time and bein’ patience. Now,” Applejack nipped her ear again, “Ah’ll show you what we fillyfoolers like to call ‘The Magic Hour’.”

“Heh, wait, what?”

Applejack kissed Rainbow with a soft bite from her flat teeth from her ear to the nape of her neck, sending Rainbow into a near overdrive of sexual excitement. Moving the hooves that tried to press her head down, Applejack continued the pattern down her entire side, stopping at her cutie mark and tracing the outline of it.

The sensory experience was getting to be too much as Rainbow began whimpering, biting her bottom lip, and grinding her hips.

Applejack moved to her soft nipples and with a swirl of her tongue wettened one before taking it into her mouth, sucking softly. Rainbow did a full sit-up, trembling and moaning ecstatically at the sensation before falling back onto the bed, writhing in pent up sexual agony. Unable to speak, she reverted to a whicker that sent Applejack into a slow chuckle, sending vibrations into Rainbow’s teat and making the situation worse for the cyan mare.

Scooting further back on Rainbow’s body, she let her forehooves trail from her barrel, to her underbelly, to her teats and as she rubbed them in soft circles she looked at the winking slip in front of her muzzle. The pink showing with every pulse of aching clit was a sight for her to behold. She could smell the scent of the mare she loved in it’s truest form and the heat was almost touchable.

She leaned in and let the winking clit brush against her nose, just once, and it nearly sent Rainbow into an orgasm, or so she thought from the reaction. She giggled to herself and moved her right, then left foreleg under Rainbow’s hips and around her cutie marks to hold her in place as she let her tongue slide free and brush lightly, from bottom to top of her vulva as slowly as she could.

Rainbow writhed and lifted her hips in instinctive motions as Applejack let her tongue pass her outer lips and touch the soft, sensitive, pink insides. The heat, taste, motions, and reactions of the mare sent Applejack into a near crazed frenzy, but she resisted and remembered that this was something she always wanted to try, and by every apple on and in the orchard, she was gonna do it.

Flicking her tongue against Rainbow’s outer lips she let it slide, slowly, as long and deep as it would go inside Rainbow’s vagina. With a tensing of her body and a squeak that was very mouselike from Rainbow, Applejack pulled her tongue out and started rubbing her soft round nose up and down against the exposed clit as she spent a half minute pistoning inside and out of Rainbow with her tongue.

With a scream that would startle a beast that started in the back of her throat and rose to a fever pitch, Rainbow climaxed mightily. Twisting her athletic body in random ways and sitting up just to fall back again, she peaked and finally fell back. With a few seconds break to lick her muzzle clean from the discharge of love fluids, Applejack firmed her grip and began her ministration again.

“AJ?! St-uh-gnn-wh,” Rainbow gasped and struggled slightly as Applejack continued, this time licking and sucking the winking clit itself like a thirsty dog. Swirling her tongue and sucking lightly, it was a playful bite against Rainbow’s thighs that sent her over the edge again, just before the first had completely subsided.

Refusing to stop, Applejack took in a deep breath and held it as he pressed her muzzle into Rainbow’s wet pussy and flicked her tongue out, moving it around and making sure to rub the walls of her vagina for all she was worth. The rhythmic tension that pulled and tugged her tongue was exhilarating. As she felt the vaginal walls clench tightly a thought of getting stuck in Rainbow flashed through her mind, sending a chuckle at the absurdity of it all, then she pulled back and opened her mouth wide, swallowing what came forth again, much less this time; just a trickle, but still enough to indicate Rainbow’s third orgasm.

Rainbow’s legs remained tense, yet her body went limp. The sound of her gasping for air concerned the orange mare for a second and she raised her head to see Rainbow’s expression. A smile was all she could tell, but it was enough. Lowering her head she nipped at the cyan thighs beside her head eliciting a strained yelp and whine, a twitch from each leg as they were nipped, and quick wink from her clit.

“Hey, Rainbow,” Applejack said as she rested her chin on Rainbow’s teats, “how was that?”

There was no response. “So, ya want more?! Ah swear, never can please this one,” she chuckled as she lowered her head again, seeing Rainbow’s foreleg raise, wave, and drop. She mumbled something just before gasping as Applejack started licking again, rubbing patterns into Rainbow’s flanks as she went and using what little reach she had left to rub the teats and nipples inches from her eyes.

Rainbow struggled weakly until she spasmed again, this time it wasn’t as intense and Applejack knew the hour wasn’t going to happen, but the few minutes had been fun. Maybe less foreplay, she smirked as she released Rainbow’s legs and pushed up, maybe more foreplay.

She looked at Rainbow Dash as she climbed up her body and stopped as she saw her face. Tears streaked from her eyes to the back of her head and her forelegs, holding herself tightly, trembled with her very core. “Oh, Dashing, are ya ok?”

Rainbow’s eye opened slightly and she sobbed, rolling to Applejack and holding her tightly in a hug that nearly forced the air from the larger earth pony.

Applejack rubbed and patted her back, brushing her hoof through the prismatic mane as the mare cried softly into her chest for a while until she went still. Rainbow relaxed her grip and pulled away from Applejack, asleep and smiling softly with tears still running from her eyes. Applejack lay her down onto the bed, kissed her softly on her trembling lips, and smiled. She leaned back and said, with all the feeling in her heart, “I love you, Rainbow Dash.”

Rainbow’s lips twitched into a frown, then a full smile showing some teeth as she pulled Applejack closer and rested her head on the farm mares body with a content sigh. Applejack chuckled as Rainbow quickly fell into a deep sleep. “Beats that tele-whatsit any day, right?”

She lay still for what felt like half an hour before slipping out from under Rainbow Dash, the other mare whimpering as her source of comfort and warmth moved away, and she went to the bathroom, looked into the mirror at her wet and colorful face and started running water into the sink to wash up and brush her teeth before bed.

The flavor of cum and toothpaste wasn’t one she’d market, but it was something she’d always like. She finished everything a mare needs to do in a bathroom before bed, stopping at the mirror again.

She looked out the door to the sleeping mare in the bed and smiled, realizing they’d need to move way up to be resting on the pillows, then looked back at the mirror, whispering. “Rainbow Dash, will you be mine? More than a special somepony? Will you share your life with me?”

She gulped as the words left her lips and maintained a neutral expression before blinking and shrugging. “Soon, you can do this, Applejack. Buck up and be strong,” she nodded once to her reflection and as she left the bathroom, turned off the light and climbed into bed, helped Rainbow to the top and tucked her in, then let her snuggle up to her with a quiet, content, trilling sound as they both fell asleep.
> Meeting the Princess
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The next morning, Rainbow woke up with the most calm, relaxed feeling she thought she’d ever had. With a nuzzle into the pillow, she hummed and rolled to her belly and fully extending her wings once before closing them to her sides. She lifted her head from the pillow and, with a trail of drool still connecting her to the softest pillow she’d ever laid her head on, she looked to her other side and smiled to see Applejack, asleep by her side, her muzzle mere inches away.

Extending her wing she poked her lover with her primary feathers and when that didn’t work she tickled her ear. At the subconscious flick Rainbow used her devious nature and stuck her feathertip into her ear and wiggled it.

“Gnyaa!” Applejack nearly shouted, sitting up and rubbing her ear furiously as her gaze found a quiet mare smirking beside her with lidded eyes. “Rainbow Dash, ya know there’s better ways ta wake a pony,” she frowned, now very awake, and waited for a retort but none came. Rainbow folded her wing to her side again and turned to face her, opened her forelegs, and waited.

Applejack couldn’t stay frustrated at her and with a roll of her eyes she moved into the embrace and was promptly snuggled upon with a messy mane brushing her chin as she felt a head nuzzling into her chest fur.

A moment passed before Rainbow held a quiet note, then stopped. She repeated the pattern several times before Applejack had to ask. “Dashing, what’re ya doin’? Singin’ or somethin’?”

“It’s your heartbeat and dude, it’s the most amazing sound. I swear, I hear my name,” she responded slowly, lazily.

“Uh… you alright, Sugarcube?”

Rainbow giggled. “Rain-bow. Rain-bow. Rain-bow. Rain-bow. Your heart’s calling to me, and I am totally answering it,” she hummed the note from before again.

“O-kay, do ya need water? Yer talkin’ kinda… different.”

Rainbow quietly giggled again for a mere second. “I don’t even know right now. All I know is I’m yours, AJ,” she began swirling a circle into Applejack’s belly with her hoof passively, “you’re awesome in every way that I can never be and you love me so much that it hurts, because I can’t show you the same love back.”

“Rainbow, if this is about last night-”

“No, it’s not. Well, kinda, but it’s like,” she placed her hoof where she was circling and pressed lightly, watching her belly dip with the pressure, “I can’t know the words cuz I’m not a smart pony, and I didn’t pay attention in class hardly at all, but I know that I love and totally trust you with everything that makes me like, I dunno, just me. If that makes sense?”

“Rainbow Dash, ya know I love ya and that’s not somethin’ that needs words,” she said as she rubbed a hoof through her lovers mane.

“Yeah, but I want to say it more than show it. You’re more worth it than just sky sculpting or food. I mean, you got wings for me just because,” she frowned and let her hoof leave Applejack’s belly, resting her foreleg across her and held her with a little pressure, “because you’re really awesome. And what’ve I really done for you?”

“You’re you, and that’s all that matters to me.”

“No, it’s not fair. I’m being totally, ya know, selfish. I mean you gave me a home, your heart, the best sex ever, attention, advice, a challenge to be a better pony both physically and inside. And I don’t give you hardly any of that stuff. AJ, what do you need me to do?” she asked quietly. She rode the slight wave as Applejack chuckled a few times, smiling at the closeness she felt.

“Dashing, ya don’t have ta do anything. Just keep being you, the mare I fell in love with. The mare who needs a shoulder to cry on and body to snuggle with. The mare who’s dreams are as big as Canterlot Mountain and by golly, she’s gonna get ‘em or pull the mountain down to show she won’t be stopped.

“The mare that won’t say no to a challenge or hesitate to defend her friends. You’re the mare you need to be, and if you change anything over time, it’ll be because you want to change and not because it’s fer somepony else. Not even me, ya follow?”

Rainbow sighed loudly. “Yeah, I can do that for you. But, one thing I promise is to be there for you when you need me just like you’re there for me.”

“Deal,” she ruffled Rainbow’s forelocks. Rainbow finally forced herself up and kissed Applejack lightly, but for longer than she’d expected. A hot breath escaped them both before Rainbow pressed her lips back to Applejack’s and climbed on top of her, placing an orange hindleg between hers.

No words needed to be said about what was about to happen, and Applejack was ready before Rainbow leaned in to kiss her again. “Nuh-uh, you keep your knees to yourself, farm mare, this’ my turn.”

Applejack chuckled loudly as she relaxed her hind legs and wrapped her forelegs around Rainbow, pulling her into a tongue wrestling kiss. She felt her wings extending and noted the discomfort as they did. She rocked side to side as they flexed. “Ha, kinda sucks to have wings, I know. But I’d only trade them for you, Fritter.”

Rainbow let a muffled sound escape as she was pulled into a deeper kiss, this time her mewled into it as a leg brushed against her privates and she returned the motion with a growing smile. “I can feel how wet you are for me,” she whispered, “I think it’s time I repaid you for last night. Just don’t buck me across the room, okay?”

Applejack guffawed and pointed to her hat at the far side of the bed, just near the edge enough so it wouldn’t fall to the floor. “Get my hat’n we’ll fix that.” Rainbow grinned and nodded as she sat up and slipped the covers off of them and flew over, flipped the hat, and took the rope that was stuck in the inner rim out before flying back.

“Okay, hold still and Mommy’ll make this all nice and tight so you can be a good filly while I get those tingles to go away.”

“Rainbow, yer so nasty,” Applejack blushed from her neck to the top of her head, “be gentle, Mommy.”

Rainbow looked at Applejack with surprise then grinned she she grabbed a pillow and took the case off it, draping it over Applejack’s shins. She flew around the farm mare several times, lifting her as needed before stopping and admiring her work. “Eeyup, that’s tight enough to hold even one of your bucks, now hold on,” she licked her lips and moved to the side of the mare whose hind legs were firmly bound and started to kiss her from her neck to her cutie mark before switching sides and kissing from cutie mark to her chin.

With a soft peck their lips touched and as Applejack leaned in for another, Rainbow pulled away teasingly, her mouth open and tongue just past her lips in a seductive, inviting way. A few inches and Rainbow leaned forward and kissed her lover, letting her tongue slide under Applejack’s to one of her erogenous spots, sending shivers through her.

“I know your spots,” she teased and she kissed her way to Applejack’s right ear and ran her tongue along the base. She grinned as she nipped the mare’s ear and let her tongue glide along the soft fur in the center as Applejack whimpered, sucking in her top lip at the sensation.

With a flap of her wings, Rainbow hovered over Applejack and gave her one more peck on the lips before floating back Applejack’s body and lowering herself to the bed, her muzzle just above Applejack’s teats. With the same care she received the night before she kissed, licked, and sucked the soft nipples, finishing with a nip that was just firm enough to make Applejack gasp.

Rainbow smiled to herself this time as she backed up the final few inches and placed her hooves on Applejack’s teats after wrapping her forelegs around the orange mare’s hips. Without much more ado, Rainbow kissed Applejack’s labia and let her tongue enter her with a fast motion. Applejack’s back arched as she felt the fire in her loins finally being quenched as a long flat tongue lapped in and out of her body.

The pressure on her teats, the heat of Rainbow’s breath against her winking clit, the slurping and squishing sounds were all that filled her world and before a minute passed she started panting, grunting, and as Rainbow recognized, her vagina tensed just as Rainbow pulled back to avoid the rush of mare cum that squirted at her.

“Whoo-doggie!” Applejack whooped once as she fell back from a curl-up with a sharp exhale as Rainbow wiped her pussy dry with the bedsheet. “Who-wee, that was a great start to th-” her breath hitched making her squeak as Rainbow used her tongue like a wet rag and slapped it against her exposed clit during each wink.

“Rainbow,” Applejack breathed, “what’re ya-” her breath left her and returned when she gasped, her shoulders leaving the bed as her back arched when Rainbow managed to place her lips around her exposed nub and held it in her mouth, her tongue dragging across it with the delicacy of a quill against rice paper.

With a steady rhythm, Rainbow licked and moved her lower jaw, moving the clit in her mouth slightly in an experiment that had instant results. If Applejack hadn’t been hogtied she’d have risked hurting Rainbow, possibly seriously, as her legs fought the rope with an obvious stretching sound as it held her legs still.

A deep throated grumble grew louder as Rainbow opened her mouth and let her long tongue glide across the winking and exposed nub and into her pussy, savoring the reaction she got as she repeated the motions until, without warning a warmth of fluid ran across her tongue before she could withdraw.

“Ugh, warn me next time, sheesh,” Rainbow licked a different spot on the bedsheet to clear her tongue while she held Applejack as still as she could as another orgasm waved through Applejack.

Rainbow didn’t bother to clean it off as she buried her muzzle into Applejack’s pussy, her nose and mouth working feverishly during a held breath to see what would happen.

“Mommy, I’m gonna cum fer you again, mommy. Oh, sweet Celestia I’m cumming for you, Dashing, right now! Again... fer you,” she gripped her knees with her forelegs and with one final, deep, well rounded and spiraling exit pass of the cyan mare’s tongue against every spot inside Applejack’s vagina, Rainbow leaned up as Applejack grunted deeply and exhaled a long breath as a final orgasm rolled over the previous one.

Applejack let loose a loud whinney then a whoop and rolled her hindlegs to the side with a chuckle. “So, sleepy now?” Rainbow asked as she used the nearest spot of blanket to wipe her muzzle. She flew beside Applejack and placed a hoof on Applejack’s cheek, the other mare did the same.

“Ah’m starvin’ now, ta be honest. Dang, Dashing, Ah could gallop back ta Ponyville right now,” she leaned into Rainbow and pressed their lips together in a closed mouth lovers kiss.

“Well, let’s not go home yet. We’ve still got stuff to do,” Rainbow replied as she reached for the knot and tugged it with a smile as it fell loose and Applejack, in one smooth motion rolled on top of Rainbow, both their smiles turned into a giddy laugh.

“Ah love ya, Rainbow Dash,” she said placing a hoof on the cyan chest where her heart was. Rainbow followed the action with her marefriend and winked her eye. “Ya know, if you were up to it, we could have another last night, right now.”

Rainbow snorted and shook her head. “No thanks, I barely survived twenty minutes of that hour thing, it’s time to start the day, anyway. I’ve gotta do my routine and get a flight around the city in quick to stay loose.”

Applejack rolled off her and noticed her wings already falling back under her conscious control. “You were plenty loose last night.” She snickered as her side was poked.

“Hey, I didn’t tease you, Miss Glowing Face,” she stuck her tongue out at Applejack who returned the gesture before they both giggled and left the bed.

“You do yer stretchin’ and I’ll start the shower in an hour and we’ve got a few things t’do today just ta get started so we can get ‘r done.”

Rainbow landed by the bathroom. “Pee first! But, what’re you gonna do while I’m flying around the city?”

“Gonna look at that local eats book fer a place to eat that’s more sensible than that mess we ate last night.”

“Fair enough.”





“Welcome to Canterlot Castle, home of Equestria’s rulers, Princesses Celestia and Luna. As you can see to your right, the statue is made of marble and was made a mere month ago by artisans-”

Rainbow yawned as the tour guide led a large group through the castle. Cameras flashed, ponies spoke in hushed voices, and the guards stood ever so diligently by the priceless works of art or important items on the tour.

“AJ, I’m bored. Let’s go practice your flying s’more.”

The tour group looked back at the hovering pegasus who waved them off.

“Rainbow, we just started not five minutes ago. Let’s just do the tour, okay?”

Rainbow groaned and whined at the same time. “But we already know the princesses personally and can see them whenever we want, AJ,” that got the tour group’s attention, in a positive way. Camera’s flashed at the duo and the tour guide began to shout in vain to gather their attention back.

Rainbow struck a pose while hovering and pouted her lips to the cameras. “Now this’ more like it!” she flashed grins, framed her face, and strutted midair.

Questions of an obvious nature began to bombard the two mares and while Rainbow reveled in the attention, Applejack pulled her hat down and backed away slowly, right into a guard they didn’t notice behind them. With a clank of metal against metal in the armor, the guard hopped to the side and brandished a very real, very sharp knife in his mouth.

None of the ponies knew where it came from, only that they didn’t know what to do.

“Citizens of Equestria, remain calm and return to your tour. The gift shop is open until an hour after sunset,” the guard said in a disarmingly soft voice.

The tour group nervously returned their attention to the frustrated guide and silently they began to move past the next couple items before the tour resumed.

“Hey, what’s the big deal?” Rainbow frowned as she flew at the guard. “I was trying to tell them how awesome I am and you had to cut it short.”

“Rainbow Dash, please accompany me with your friend into yon adjacent room.” Sharing a cold glare, Rainbow followed the guard and looked back to her lover.

“C’mon, I’ve gotta settle something with this gal.”

Applejack quickly caught up. “Rainbow, don’t be a danged food, that’s royal guard,” she spoke sternly but quietly, “you can’t fight one’a them, they’re trained ta do Celestia knows what and Ah don’t wanna find out today.”

“Psh,” Rainbow rolled her eyes, “I can take whatever this chick can dish out.”

The door closed behind them, leaving the three alone in a nearly bare room, save for wall art and a side table with flowers on it at the far wall.
“Do you know why you’re here?” the guard asked.

Rainbow narrowed her eyes at the golden armored mare and tensed her forelegs, pulling them back enough to get a good hit in, even if she knew she’d lose, she'd have a story to tell. “No, but I can guess.”

With a jovial laugh a blue cloud encircled the guard and from the gilded hooves to her tip of her horn, Luna stood with a cheeky grin. “Because I told you to.”

“Princess Luna,” they mares exclaimed in unison. “Well, Ah’ll be, it’s nice ta see ya after so long, but why’re ya here? Playin’ hide’n seek or somethin’?”

“Nay, Lady Applejack,” Luna waved a hoof gently as Applejack blushed enough in her cheeks to make her freckles stand out, “We, er, I follow the tour group at times to watch and listen to how ponies interact these days. I haven’t much to do as of yet until my night court is established and,” she shrugged, “other such duties are levied upon my withers.”

“So,” Rainbow hovered over Applejack, “no fighting?”

Luna chuckled quietly. “If you wish, you may attempt as much, but I would advise against it. I am more skilled than you in the arts of combat.”

“Heh, doubt that,” Rainbow challenged, ignoring the disapproving glare and shush from Applejack.

“Then I will afford you one strike against me. If you make contact, I will have my meeting with you now.”

“Awe yeah, it’s so on,” Rainbow rubber her hooves together and jerked her head to both sides eliciting a crack from the second motion. As Luna watched the prismatic pegasus moved into a blur of motion, charging hooves first at the Princess, only to miss contact and barely stop before she crashed through the wall. “Hey, no teleporting!”

“She didn’t, Rainbow,” Applejack said wide eyed with a smirk.

“Horseapples she didn’t!” Rainbow near instantly turned into a swath of colors as she zigzagged toward the Princess. Pulling her right foreleg back she watched intently as she approached and extended her foreleg with her hoof to strike the dark mares chest. In what Rainbow could describe as a fade, she stopped suddenly and looked to her sides, up, then yelped and flew forward several feet from the tap on her shoulder.

“You are indeed… hasty, yet not nearly fast enough. I could count the hairs in your mane with the time you left me to dodge,” Luna said as her chin raised and she stood in a much more regal manner.

Rainbow grit her teeth and sped at the princess again, swinging like a mad pony at the mare and missing in a cliche manner worthy of anime. She finally turned her gaze from Luna when she heard Applejack’s voice drawling and she looked over to see her marefriend speaking in a slow, deep voice.

“Applejack, what’re you saying?” Applejack’s ears perked slowly as she pointed a hoof at her.

“She is probably interested at your speed, you’re merely a moving blur of color to her, no doubt,” Luna said at a slightly faster but equally deep voice, “perhaps you should stop trying and accept my invitation to my meeting, now.”

Rainbow stopped flapping her wings and let herself fall to the floor, barely getting a chance to speak before Applejack knocked her over. “Rainbow Dash, ya had me worried fer a second there. Don’t go doin’ that again, okay?”

“What’d I do?”

Ya turned inta some rainbow fuzz that was all kinda twisty. Just, don’t fight the princess anymore, ok?”

Rainbow looked at Luna, who nodded once. “Fine, but I’m still the fastest pegasi in Equestria, alicorns don’t count.”

They all shared a laugh. “Indeed, now, shall we adjourn?”

“Uh yeah, indeed'n stuff. You gonna be okay while I have a quick chat with the princess about whatever.”

They shared a nuzzle and kiss. “Ah’ll be fine. There's a couple things ta do in this place and I can still catch the tour. See ya Rainbow Dash, Luna,” she bowed her head and left the two alone.

Applejack grinned at her luck and took to a fast trot past the tour group and toward the throne room.

Guards stopped her twice before a pair broke off and led her to the long line of ponies waiting their turn. “Awe shucks. Ah hate ya do this,” she turned to one of her escorts. “Ah need ta see Princess Celestia.”

"Sorry, ma'am, but only nobles are allowed urgency.”

“Yes,” a pompous mare said from two ponies ahead of her, “and a commoner like you should worry about mowing your farm, or what have you,” she smirked as ponies snickered and chuckled.

Applejack stood up tall and puffed her chest out. In a calm, collected, slightly Manehattan voice spike, “I, Lady Applejack of Ponyville do hereby request, uh, a viewing with Princess Celestia, post haste.”

Ponies in line outright laughed at her as she stood as much like Rarity normally would, acting to ignore the laughter and comments directed at her.

A pony dressed in red clothing came running up to her and gazed at her cutie mark. “Oh, she's some harlot, too,” the mare from earlier announced.

A page flipped on a clipboard the stallion in red wore and he bowed respectfully. “Lady Applejack, what do you request of the staff?”

The room fell silent as Applejack smirked. “Well, fer one, Ah feel ya should treat others as ya wanna be treated, so that mare there should head on home and do some gardening and come back when she's learned her manners to others.”

The pony in red stomped his hoof twice loudly and two guards left their posts with spears slightly angled in a ready position as they marched to the mare from both sides.

“Ma'am, will you come with us?”

The mares lower jaw opened and closed several times before she shook her head. “N-no! I've waited two weeks to see the princess about my problem. I can't wait any longer!”

The guards lowered their weapons at the mare won closed her mouth but whimpered all the same.

“Alright, hold yer horses. Ah'm not gonna talk about kindness and boot ya like that, now what's got yer saddle backwards so only the princess can help?”

“Thank you, Lady Apple…”

“Applejack.”

“Yes, Lady Applejack. I need the princess to,” her eyes widened and it seemed that she'd stopped breathing.

“And what, ma'am?”

“I, uh, really think the princess should know first.”

Applejack raised an eyebrow, knowing that in Canterlot everything meant something and the mare exhaled then mumbled, “There's too many country ponies sullying or streets and should be restricted to certain areas of Canterlot.”

Applejack's jaw dropped and her eyes widened. A pin dropped probably could have been heard.

“Why of all the low down good fer nothin’! Who else here's gotta plum stupid request like that ta ask?” A few seconds passed and Applejack repeated herself. “Who's here ta waste the princess’ time with questions like that?!” Her voice echoed through several halls and even Princess Celestia took notice.

Hooves began to reach up, all save but a few.

“Yer just a bunch'a mean and petty ponies. Ah want all'a ya outta the castle till ya get some darned sense in yer heads and kindness in yer hearts!”

She panted after her direct order and with for stomps the guards in the hall took a step forward and lowered their spears.  Without a word the line of rich, wealthy, overdressed ponies had left the line and only a half dozen naked and pleased ponies remained.

A stallion as tall as Big Macintosh left the throne room and offered the country mare a nod as he passed.

“Princess Celestia will see you now, Lady Applejack.”

The pony in red stomped once and turned on his hind hooves so smoothly he could have been on ice, then led her into the throne room.

"Howdy, Celestia,” Applejack greeted, the sound of gasps from the still leaving ponies could be heard, “mighty nice of ya to see me on such short notice.”

She laughed in a demure manner. “It is always nice to see you, Lady Applejack.”

“Well…” Applejack responded rubbing a spot on the back of her head.

“Of all the years I've known your family, I've never heard your titles used once. So, to what honor do I owe your family on this occasion?”

“Oh, no Princess, not my family. Just me and, well, ya see…” Celestia waited patiently. “Ah'm in love with my marefriend, Rainbow Dash, and Ah’d like a gift to give her that's worthy of her.”

“Well, you came to the right pony, then. Had you gone to Luna you might have gotten a customary gift from ages past,” she smiled as she got up and calmly walked to Applejack.

“Yeah, Rainbow's all about action and bein’ awesome. Not whatever they did way back when. So, can I buy somethin’, or get an idea?”

I'll do you one better, Lady Applejack,” Celestia smiled.

“Am I ever gonna live that one down?”

“Ask me when all the grass in Equestria is counted,” she quipped in reply.

“Princess, was that a joke?” Applejack asked as she was led to a side room.

“Court is adjourned for ten minutes,” Celestia called. She walked through the door as a thump echoed. “Here, I have a gift worthy of her.”

Her horn glowed and in a dull flash a gilded horseshoe of silver shined.

“It's really nice, but a shoe?”

“It's the meaning behind it. Not only is this a gift from a princess, but it never wears. The hoof it's on never needs tending, and when it's near the one who gifted it, it sends the memory of the most special moment they shared to the forefront of the mind.”

“That sounds kinda intrusive…”

“Don't worry, Lady Applejack,” her smile didn't falter, “it merely hints at the subconscious memory and that's enough for the subconscious emotions to return. Basically it helps remind the ponies of why they fell in love.”

“Well, that doesn't sound so bad after all. How much?”

“For your duty to the lands of Equestria and support of its populace through your farm and helping to defeat Nightmare Moon, I give this to you as non-returnable and undeniable reward for your actions thus far.”

Applejack frowned, but her happiness showed through. “Kinda made it so I couldn't even politely decline, didn'tcha?” Celestia nodded once and turned to a side door. “Showin’ me the way out?”

“Not unless you can fit inside a toilet.”

Applejack paused and watched as the door shut behind Celestia. “Ah'll just go out the way I came in, if that's alright.”

“Fare thee well, Lady Applejack. Oh, and I like your wings.”

She could hear the mirth in the alicorns voice but let it be since she had things to do. Placing the shoe I her hat she made her way out.

She left the throne room just as the tour group was arriving and blended in the best she could and within three minutes other ponies had forgotten about her, focusing on the painting of a potted plant on the wall.

Ah missed most’a the tour and Ah don’t know what’s goin’ on. Why’re we lookin’ at some drawin’? Looks like somethin’ Ah made when I was a filly. With my belly and swishin’ tail. While asleep, she smiled at her own musings then let her eyes wander the hallway while the guide described the pedestal below and to the left of the painting.

She rolled her eyes and turned back to leave and noticed her love trotting just outside the doorway. She made her way over as guards she passed snapped to attention and she couldn’t help but look at them. Ah guess word about me traveled fast. Ah just hope Rainbow didn’t find out.

With a bright hope in her heart she exited into the warm sunny day and called to Rainbow.

“Heya, AJ. Glad ya finally made it out, how was that dumb tour?”

“It was-”

“I heard a lotta yelling earlier,” she smiled, “I bet somepony totally got chewed out for something.”

“Well-”

“Hey, did you know there’s some hotshot noble walkin’ around here and firing people? I bet she’s a unicorn and is, like, teleporting them outside,” she laughed to herself.

“Rainbow-”

“I totally just had a talk with Luna, it was cool. She was just in awe of my awesomeness,” she looked at a hoof and shrugged. “Kinda get used to it when you’re me.”

“Let’s go.”

“Ugh, finally,” she groaned and did a backflip, “I was hoping you’d be out here forever ago, but you had to go on that tour. Did ya see any cute mares that could join us?” she winked.

“Rainbow Dash, yer just impossible.”

“Yeah, I know. You love me still, right?”

“Ya know Ah do. Let’s just get to the danged museum and on after that. Ah can’t wait fer this day ta be over.”

“Me too!” Rainbow said as she followed Applejack. “It’s cool how you’re all like, blah, blah, blah. And then I’m like, I was totally thinking that, and then you go on about stuff and it’s cool to listen to your voice,” she stopped speaking suddenly.

“Everything okay, Dashing?”

“Yeah, just done talkin’ for a minute. Ya know, thinkin’ about stuff. Personal stuff that I can’t tell you about cuz I’m just so, like, got stuff to think about, uh, about stuff.”

Applejack let an eyebrow raise but turned back to looking ahead. “Rainbow, ya gotta do somethin’ about all that extra energy.”

“Good idea! Meet ya there,” she said and before Applejack could say anything she saw the rainbow contrail leading into the sky.

“That little,” she opened her wings, having forgotten about them and with a controlled series of flaps chased after Rainbow at nearly the same speed. Rainbow’s ears swiveled and her head twitched before she looked back with a grin.

“Hey, you’re pretty fast, for an earth pony.”

“And Ah still got the strength of an earth pony, so let’s see what these here wings can do.”

“Heh, I’ll catch you when you tumble out. Did I ever tell you about riding another pony’s wake?”

Applejack smiled and with focus she flapped her wings faster and shot past Rainbow, sending the cyan mare into a brief spin before she regained control and speeding after the orange mare that was faster than she expected. She gawked for a second and then slyly smirked as she sped up to nearly her top speed, catching up to Applejack.

“Not too bad, but it’s a kinda sloppy-”

“Like you were last night!”

Rainbow tumbled and caught herself as she nearly stopped. Dirty talk? From Applejack?! Oh hell yeah! she took off at her higher speed to catch back up and slowed when she caught up. “Ya know we passed the museum and, well,” she pointed down, “we’re off Canterlot mountain. Are you stuck in high speed?”

“Nah, just tryin’ these babies out. Gettin’ a bit tired, but now Ah know that yer not as fast as ya say.”

“What?! Fastest mare in Equestria here.”

“Not faster than Princess Luna,” she mocked.

“Oh yeah? Eat this,” she shouted and shot ahead so fast Applejack lost control and was tossed around, pulled out of her path by the wake.

Applejack opened her wings and leveled out in a glide as she craned her head back to watch Rainbow. A few seconds later a vertical sonic rainboom exploded in the sky and Rainbow’s contrail led away before curling back and she stopped just behind Applejack. With a slap on the mare’s apple cutie mark, Rainbow sucked her lips in and bit them lightly.

Applejack hovered and opened her mouth as Rainbow Dash’s voice shouted at her. “Suck a lemon, slowpoke!”

“Yeah, that was my voice catching up to me. I’m faster than sound, so I win.” Applejack sighed and turned back toward Canterlot and began to fly back. “Awe, jealous of my awesomeness? Well, I can turn it down, but it won’t let me, my awesomeness has its own rules and I have to do what it says.”

“Rainbow, Ah’m gettin’ tired. Let’s just get back and finish our day.”

“Ugh, fine. Grab my tail and hold on. Just keep gliding.”

“That’s not what I meant, but never look a monkey in the mouth, right?” Applejack bit Rainbow’s tail and let a surprised noise leave her as Rainbow took a fast flight back to the mountain city. “We’re here, you can let go.”

“‘Bout time. Ah was gettin’ the worst jaw ache since last night.”

Rainbow slowed and sided with Applejack. “I like you talking dirty. I’m getting turned on,” she leaned in for a kiss.

“And we’re here, so keep a plug in it ‘til we’re back at the hotel.”

Rainbow groaned loudly and followed Applejack to the ground and then into the museum. “Natural history week?! Oh great, wake me when it’s over.”

Applejack just smiled as she led Rainbow in and later as she carried a certain sleeping cyan prismatic mare out on her back. “Dashing, wake up, it’s over.”

“Huh, eeeuuugh,” she stretched as she took to a hover. “How long did I last?”

“About four minutes.”

“What time is it?”

“About two.”

“Ugggggggghhhhhhh! We still have, like, forever until it’s sunset! What they hay are we gonna do for the next four days?”

“Well, slouchin’ ain’t fixin’ ta get up anywhere, so buck up, filly, it’s lunch time.”

“Well, at least the food isn’t boring.”

…

Rainbow looked at the rectangular plate on the cloth covered table in front of her. “This looks boring.”

“Indeed,” the waiter said as he promptly left.

Applejack shrugged and counted the four shapes of food as well. “Well, we got the specials, maybe there’s more to’m than meets the eye.”

“Yeah, yeah, books and covers. Unless this is magic loaf, it isn’t gonna fill me,” Rainbow sniffed a trapezoid.

“‘Magic loaf’? What’s that?”

“I dunno, but there’s probably a magic loaf of bread that’s really small and fills you up somewhere.”

“Well, Ah doubt it’s in this here shapey thingy,” she leaned over and took a pyramid, chewed and swallowed, then frowned. “T’aint got not flavor or fillin’. And no salt or sauce at the table ta boot.”

Rainbow ate all four in a mouthful and chewed sloppily while swallowing, followed by a slump in her features. “What a rip. Three hooves my plot, this’ like eating plain rice.”

The waiter arrived and placed the bill on the table and left, almost robotically, but he stopped when Rainbow shouted. “Forty two bits for water and boiled rice shapes I’d feed a foal?! What the hay kinda scam you guys runnin’ here?” Other well dressed patrons looked down their snouts at the angry mares. “I’m not paying that much for this crud.”

Rainbow crossed her forelegs, staring at the waiter who stood still and certainly unsure of what to do. Finally he shrugged. “Then leave and never return, you’re banned from Le Cordon Bleu and by my word, the rest of the fine dining establishments in Canterlot as well,” he dragged a hindhoof across the floor in threatening finality.

“Name’s Rainbow Dash and Applejack, and we wouldn’t eat here if you paid us twice what you charge, let’s go, AJ.”

Silence fell on the room as the mares got up and left.

“Ladies, the meal’s on us! This was all a misunderstanding, I’ll fire the waiter-”
“What?!”
“-if you’ll just take our apologies.”

“Oh, now he gives a shit.”

“Rainbow Dash! No cussin’!” Applejack scolded to which Rainbow shrugged.

“Outta the way, fancy guy. I’ve got a date with a fresh juicy taco. A real one!” she blushed faintly, “from the wagons downtown… shut up with your laughing,” she glared at the rich ponies that lost their posh composure in the room.

“Dash has a point and bein’ nice ain’t gonna fix it. Firin’ the waiter’s too low, but just do the honest thing and keep our names off the blacklist, alright?”

“Very well, ma’am. Please, accept our apologies and appreciation for saving the world as we know it.”

Rainbow laughed. “Yeah, now I bet they’d offer us a real bowl of rice. AJ, are you coming with me to eat some juicy tacos or not? I mean real ones! That’s it, I’m outta here!”

“There goes my ride,” Applejack mumbled and blushed at the demure laughter directed at her. “Well, always leave’m laughin’,” she said opening her wings and flying after Rainbow. “Well, we might be able to go back, but Ah’ll never live that nonsense down.”

“You and me both. Hey, I’ve got an idea,” Rainbow grinned.

“What’s that?”

“We can eat each other’s tacos! … I mean… Oh, you shut up, too!”
> First Time? Last Time? Maybe...
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Parts of the next couple days seemed to drag by for Rainbow Dash while Applejack made the most of her time in the nation’s capital. From tours of locations as old as the cities construction as a small town of mages to snacks from carts that offered more normal and flavorful foods from across the world. From minotaur quiche to griffin cookies tickled their taste buds and, in one case, burned their bellies for an hour.

They weren’t pleased to spend part of their fourth day in separate bathrooms in the suite, working out the second burn from the spicy food, but once recovered later in the day and filled up on water and fresh fruit, they went back out to tour the notorious yet well-traveled Purple District, as noticeable by the grooves in the cobblestone leading into and out of the main streets.

From a star-speckled purple pair of gold trimmed gates, the road opened into a cul de sac with named alleys identifying the services offered at the end with a pony dressed provocatively wearing appropriate attire for what they were offering.

Many a fully cloaked pony sulked between shops, keeping their muzzles down to keep their identity hidden. Rainbow couldn’t help but land as her wings betrayed her interest in both stallions and mares wearing lingerie shouting or showing sex toys or holding signs depicting what a store offered with toys and genitals that were drawn as realistic as possible.

“Sweet Luna’s teats,” Applejack whispered as a grin crossed her muzzle, “C’mon, Rainbow! It’s like bein’ a filly in a candy store!” she said loudly, hopping in place and skipping ahead she turned to Rainbow Dash. “Ya comin’, Dashing?”

“Soon,” she replied, “uh, I mean yeah, just, wow… I can’t believe you’re cool with all this?” she gestured around the cul de sac.

“Ah’ve been here once before when Ah was a young mare but was still unsure about myself. Now Ah’m a grown mare and after what you did with me and that,” she lowered her voice, “dildo,” she blushed lightly and spoke up again, “Ah don’t see a reason ta be scared’a anything here now! Oh, let’s start there.”

Rainbow slowly walked and called to Applejack. “Hold up, I need to go in there.” She turned and galloped into an unmarked store with a simple sign over the door. A pony silhouette with a lasso of rope around it. She emerged before Applejack arrived with a cloak over her lithe form and a cloak for Applejack as well.

“Rainbow, that you?”

“No, I’m Nopony, and so are you, so here,” she held the dark cloak out.

“Why in tarnation would Ah wanna hide my hide?” she looked skeptically at the cloaked mare and then to the cloak.

“Because, even the lowest ponies have an image to uphold and showing off here can ruin a pony’s rep! I can’t lose any rep, AJ! Uh, I mean No Pony. C’mon, put it on and we’ll blend in.”

Applejack snorted and turned away. “Ah’m not ashamed of who I am, and none of these ponies should be either. T’ain’t fair ta hide yerself from others that’re the same as ya, now take that thing off and stop bein’ a mole in the ground.”

Rainbow hesitated then shook her head. “I can’t, AJ. What if anypony recognizes me?”

“What’ll they say if they see me with some mare in a cloak? That I’m just some traditional herder? That’ll get ya more publicity, bein’ part of a herd.”

Rainbow pulled her hood back and sighed, trotted beside Applejack, and in a smooth motion she tossed the extra cloak over Applejack. “Before you complain, I’ll keep my hood off and so will you, but I kinda have to keep my body covered.”

Applejack mulled it over then looked at Rainbow. “Why do you have ta wear this thing?” Rainbow pouted and with a foreleg lifted the side of her cloak. Applejack nodded and patted Rainbow’s wing strap. “Maybe we can keep this fer, adventurous nights.”

“Nope, property of the district. Enchanted so I can’t even leave with it on. I’d need to take it off, duh.”

“No need to get snippy. Ah understand and,” her eyes closed partly into a seductive glare, “we’ll just have ta find one’a these of our own.”

With a loud gulp, Rainbow nodded and gestured ahead. “Ladies first.”

“Why thank you, handsome.”

“Hey, I’m a mare. I can’t be handsome.”

“We’ll let you learn that one. Oh, let’s start there!”

They started in one shop, moving to the next and next until they reached a side street named ‘Dance Avenue’. It took a little coaxing but Rainbow finally followed Applejack and hung her head, as though it would hide her appearance from the numerous colts to stallions dancing behind tempered windows to her right while fillies to mares danced to her left.  Each with a sparkling purple door set in the middle of the four story high windows.

Each dressed provocatively with clothing that fit snugly and hid their cutie marks, each offering alluring glances to the mares as they passed. “AJ, this place is- wow!” she met the eyes of a stallion she once knew who was not dancing and had recognized her from the moment she entered his line of sight. He was erect and the look on his face was a bit remorseful. “That guy totally led me on for a month before I broke it off with him,” Rainbow pointed so Applejack could follow.

“Ah don’t see what the big deal- oh, my. If Ah was inta stallions that’d be a deal breaker. Rainbow, you took all that?” she pointed to the massively rounded horsecock.

“Heh, hell no. All I could do was ride the ring in the middle, backwards, while using a toy made for colt cuddlers to get him off after I did. Timing was everything with that one,” she trotted over and looked up to the stallion on the second floor. “Hey, remember when I courted you and you totally tried to clip my wings to win a race? Nice to see you’ve made it far in life,” she stuck out her tongue and turned away.

Using her colorful tail she lifted the cloak and exposed herself to the stallions and knelt her front as though she were bowing to the princess in person. With a waggle of her hind she had all but two stallions’ attention when Applejack whapped her head with her hat. “Rainbow Dash, stop teasin’ the stallions and c’mon.”

She tipped her hat then blushed when she saw at least a half dozen erect cocks before she averted her eyes and pulled her hat down a bit.

“Oh, sure, now you get embarrassed? Fine, you’re so getting this and you’re gonna love it, no matter how much you hate it.” With a shove, Rainbow pushed Applejack away from the stallion and toward the door featuring mares.

“Rainbow, Ah’m fine! Ah don’t need whatever it is they have here.”

“Lemme tell ya somethin’, AJ. I’ve been to the door behind me a couple times, but this one’s for you,” she snickered as she pushed, “we could even make it a girls day! Once a year all us come to this alley and,” she shoved one last time and managed to get the larger mare through the illusionary doorway.

Loud thumping music shook their hooves off the floor in a deep darkness, punctuated with spaced pink lights. It didn’t stop Rainbow from grabbing an orange primary from Applejack’s left wing in her teeth and using it to guide Applejack to a booth against the far wall. Applejack took in the scents of the room and felt her nethers tingling slightly from the thick tell of marecum in the air, with a hint of something more salty and musky as an undertone.

Her eyes widened. “Rainbow Dash,” she said. Then yelled. Then shouted before her guide looked back and let the feather loose and fell to her rump laughing. “Ah can’t get’m down! Why’d ya take me to a mating bar of all places?!”

She was barely a distant whisper over the repeating music and in the dark lights she could barely make the path they were walking on, but it was noticeably slick, sending a deeper blush to her face. She yelped as a pair of hooves grabbed her cheeks. Rainbow pressed their lips together and draped a foreleg around Applejack, leading her to a square booth with a very small rounded table at knee height in the center.

Rainbow helped Applejack sit then moved to the other seat, then reached a bit to the table and slid it in a slot against the side. The sound muffled instantly and all Applejack could hear was a ringing sound. “Rainbow, what’s the deal with this place? Ah can’t hear myself-” she let her ears relax slightly, “-myself. Well, Ah’ll be.”

“Yup, magic sound bubble stuff. A bit for ten minutes, that’s how they get ya. I flagged a tender for drinks. I think you’ll like it here and I’ve got enough bits to keep us here all night.”

“Rainbow, I appreciate what you’re tryin’ ta do, but Ah don’t feel comfortable in a place like-” a bottle of alcohol was placed on the table and the service mare offered a seductive smile. “Uhhm.”

“Yeah, totally feel ya there, AJ,” Rainbow said with a chuckle, “Miss, this’ her first time and she needs a rush deluxe package. Not VIP, she’s not ready for that and she’s kinda,” she gestured the service mare closer, “monogamous minded,” she waved the mare back, “so let’s give her a night to remember.”

With a look that sent chills down Applejack’s spine and her wings opened halfway, the mare winked once and turned to leave, her tail hair trimmed short and showing everything as she sauntered away into the noise of the club. Rainbow watched, biting her lips but still letting small snorting sounds escape her nose as Applejack watched with dumbfounded awe as the mare left.

“So,” Rainbow started, startling Applejack back to reality, “still wanna leave?”

“Well, it’d be a might rude ta leave without tryin’ some’a this here… Tay’to?” She twisted the top off and as the bottle rose to her lips Rainbow stopped her.

“Wait, take some salt first. It’ll totally loosen you up.”

Applejack looked at the saltcubes offered to her and then to the hopeful ruby eyes. She leaned over and licked them from the frog of Rainbow’s hoof then took a drink. “Woah,” she held the bottle to Rainbow Dash, “Ah can feel that, alright! Whoo,” she coughed softly and watched as Rainbow took a swig.

“Oh yeah, it burns somethin’ good, right AJ?” Rainbow said with a strained voice as she replaced the bottle onto the table and pulled out at least two hooffulls of bits from her saddlebags under the cloak and poured them on the table.

“What’re ya doin’, Dash?”

“Let’n’m know you need a good time,” she said pushing the bits closer to Applejack’s side and tilting her head to the darkness. Applejack looked and gulped as two mares, one yellow pegasus with blue mane and the other a black unicorn with a white mane, sauntered over. She licked the saltcubes from Rainbow’s hoof and turned her head, tilting slightly to drink the Equestrian version of vodka. “Okay, slow down, you gotta loosen up, not get drunk,” Rainbow patted Applejack’s back as she took the bottle from her lips to her own.

“Ladies, this’ my marefriend, Applejack, and she needs to get some stress off her withers. Stick up the butt-itis, if ya know what I mean.”

The black mare nodded to Rainbow as Rainbow moved to her booth and waved the yellow mare towards Applejack.

With a gentle bite, Applejack’s hat was removed from her head and placed on the floor, then nudged under the table just enough to be out of the way as the yellow mare pulled the cloak free of her body and let it fall to the floor as she mounted Applejack’s hips and made a point to rub herself against the base of the blonde tail while kneading her hooves gently into Applejack’s lower back.

The other mare guided Applejack’s forelegs evenly apart, “Just go with it AJ, they’re pro’s,” then lowered her head between them. “Pumpernickle’s the safe word, AJ,” Rainbow winked and shook her head to the mares. The dark unicorn climbed onto the seat and reared up, gently lowering her hooved onto Applejack’s upper back, holding her down while her moist mound was hovering over Applejack’s nose by a mere inch, moving slightly closer and farther as the mare massaged her upper back.

“Hey, AJ. What do you get when you cross orange and red? You! Rainbow laughed and kicked the air from her seat while Applejack lay in abject embarrassment as something she’d never even dreamt of happened to her.

Her heart thumped in her chest and with a flex in her wings becoming regularly timed with the motions of the mare on her rear end she lost herself in the tantric massage allowing a soft moan out.

“Woah, are you hitting on me AJ? Is that why you’re winking at me?” Applejack moved her tail to cover her naughty bits but the mares kept their motions consistent, slowly working the muscles until their hooves met in the middle. Rainbow got their attention and laughed quietly into her hooves, then managed to mouth ‘fake kiss’.

The mares looked between Rainbow, the wings of the mare beneath them, and them smiled to each other. With quiet moans of their own, they alternated making tic noises with their lips while the other breathed heavily and licked her lips.

Applejack’s ears tickled the black coated mare and her hips fell in reflex for an instant, rubbing her wet mound across the top of Applejack’s muzzle. Applejack trembled and let a long, quiet moan leave her as she began to move her hips in a slow rhythm. “Hey, sweetie,” the yellow mare started, “You’ve got the deluxe package, right?”

“Ohh, ho, ho, ho, heck yeah!” Rainbow’s grin rivaled Pinkie’s as the unicorn cast a spell that dimmed the lights around them. “AJ, they just cast a spell so nopony can see in here. You ready for whatever it is mares do?” she asked as the mares planted their hoofed and the yellow mare began moving back and forth, letting her pussy wetten the base of Applejack’s tail while the black mare lowered herself to the muzzle below her and moved in small motions.

Applejack’s eyes were wide and locked at the tip of her nose, and everything between as it happened. The parting of lips, rubbing a short length, then the wet sticky slime that connected her to the mare a shot of ecstasy flowed from the base of her skull to the tip of her tail and with a licking motion she tasted the mare at her face.

A whine, hooved digging into the couch, swirling of hips all in time with each other, and she peaked. Her tongue slipped from her mouth as she grunted and whined, trying to keep quiet as moans, the sound of fabric being scratched, and squishing noises filled the room.

The mares giggled and patted Applejack between her wings and dismounted her. The unicorn took the bits in her magic and nodded to Rainbow Dash, who nodded dully back, smiling awkwardly at Applejack. “Will there be anything else? Cleanup, perhaps?”

“Just, leave the towel,” Rainbow waved a hoof and a towel draped over her head. “Yeah, thanks.”

“No problem. The bubble will last another ten minutes or so, just fyi.”

“Thanks, now go! I’ve gotta help her up,” Rainbow said getting to her hooves and walking around the table. “Wait! Can you get a wing binder for her? She can’t keep walking around like this,” Rainbow rubbed between Applejack’s relaxing wings and grinned at the full body shiver and whimper she got as a reply.

“Sure thing, it’ll be ten bits.”

“Yeah, five at the gate, ten here. I’ll leave it with the tip,” she said as she nuzzled Applejack’s cheek. Nearly thirty seconds passed before Applejack became coherent again and returned a nuzzle, then soft kiss. “Hey, sleepy head.”

The service mare returned with a wing binder and placed it on the table with a knowing smile, but left without a word.

“Dash, Ah never… that was… Thank you,” she mumbled as she pulled Rainbow into a one legged hug.

“No prob, but we gotta get you cleaned and outta here before they charge us a sitting fee.”

“Huh? Wha-? Already?”

“Hey, you got the deluxe service. They know we’ve got bits to burn, thank you princesses, but I’d rather not toss’m all here.”

She helped Applejack sit up and move her forelegs off the couch. “Dash, that was intense. Like, Ah can hardly move after that. What’d they do ta me?” she smiled. “Can ya do it? Ah mean, yer a looker, don’t get me wrong, but black’n white just got me goin’ somethin’ fierce.”

Rainbow rolled her eyes and with a pull, Applejack was on all four hooves, rocking slightly from side to side. Rainbow took the towel off her shoulders and tossed it onto the small puddle of marecum Applejack left on the couch, strapped her wings down, covered Applejack in the cloak, and reached into her saddlebags, dropping another hooffull of bits onto the table.

“There, more than enough. Let’s go, AJ.”

“But, Rainbow, yer mane’s like the breeze if it had color,” Applejack gazed at the mane, into the mane. She whispered in reverent awe, “It’s like a zap apple ready fer harvest.”

“O-kay, you’re drunk. Too much salt, too little experience. Let’s go, for real, before you say something you’ll regret,” she turned to leave but stopped as Applejack shuffled in place.

“St-stay right there, don’t move a mu-muscle. Ah got, somethin’ here,” she mumbled something else.

“Hurry up! We gotta get to the last store, if you can even get-!!!” she hopped foreward and Applejack snickered, lowering her left forehoof to the floor.

“Poked ya in the eye! Now ya gotta gimme a bit.”

“Applejack, what are you, seven?! C’mon,” Rainbow turned and bit the collar of Applejack’s cloak, “we’re just going back to the hotel.”

“But, Ah wanna saddle ride. Ain’t that what they do here?”

“That’s the stallion’s den across the way, and you don’t one,” she pulled them from the safety of the spell and Applejack’s everything thumped in time to the deep bass beat, “unless you like ropes of white all over your body. And before you ask, it’s a bitch to clean out of a coat.”

Applejack shouted but she couldn’t even hear herself. She was led out, the smells started turning her on again until they were outside and she stumbled into the street nearly bumping into another pony.

“Hey, watch it! The Great and Powerful… Nopony does not wish to be tripped by… Applejack?”

“Ah’m sorry, t’ain’t right neighborly of me ta… what’d Ah do?”

The cloaked mare dropped a pellet that created a cloud of smoke that did nothing to cover her gallop away.

“AJ, c’mon. Let’s get you home.”

“Ah don’t wanna go home, Ah’m havin’ fun with Rainbow Dash. Ah love’r and… never drinkin’ clear liquor with salt again.”

Rainbow scooped her mare onto her back and went to the entrance, returned their cloaks and wing binders, then flew them back to the hotel room. “Alright, go to sleep,” she said after she spent a few minutes wrestling Applejack into bed, “you’re gonna remember this for a while.”

“No Ah ain’t. Ya can’t make me a’member anything, yer not the boss of my- I gotta pee.”

Rainbow groaned and placed a hoof to her forehead. “This is a night I won’t forget either.”
> An offering
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Applejack woke first, the covers off her body and a blue wing covering most of her. She yawned quietly as she gathered her senses and the blushed at the previous night’s events. She frowned slightly and turned over to hit Rainbow lightly on the forehead. “Rainbow, yer just the worst mare!”

Rainbow winced and snickered. “That’s one way to wake a pony up. Sheesh, I thought you liked the deluxe treatment.”

“Oh, why you,” she moved her wing and realized it wasn’t there, “oh, they’re gone! My wings.”

“Yeah, I watched’m fade out last night after I tucked in. They lasted longer than three days, but I’m not complaining,” she leaned in and kissed Applejack as she drew her wing to her body.

“Ah just kinda forgot about’m. I mean it just felt so natural ta fly after a while. Guess it’s back ta walkin’ fer this earth pony.”

“Yup, leave the flyin’ to us birds, right?” she booped Applejack’s nose.

“Well, Ah don’t see why ya gotta be that way. Ah kinda did that fer you. And we go home tomorrow, so what’s the plan now that we’re awake?”

“Sex? Lots of it?” she replied quickly and happily.

“Well, Ah do have somethin’ in mind and ya need one ta catch up for me last night.” Rainbow rolled her eyes. “Rainbow, did you really?!” Rainbow averted her eyes and shrugged getting playfully shrugged in return. “Ya ain’t supposed ta take care’a yerself with me around!”

“Well, you were right next to me, so-”

“That’s even worse! Ah can’t believe ya,” she rolled away and to the edge of the bed. She reached under it before Rainbow could joke and hopped to her hooves to walk back to her blue mare. “Now Ah’ve gotta use this and make it count,” she dropped a wing binder, engraved with Rainbow’s name in between them.

“Uh, huh?”

“On yer hooves, young mare. I’ve gotta teach you a lesson,” Applejack stomped her hoof silently into the bed. Rainbow nodded fervently in agreement and stood up folding her wings tightly to her sides and feeling a warm tingling in her nethers while the feeling of vulnerable safety filled her chest.

“Be gentle, Miss.”

“Ah’ll decide what yer gettin’, now lay on yer back so Ah can truss ya up like a turkey.”

Rainbow gasped in surprise and her eyebrows didn’t know which way to go as she processed the command. She relented and sat, rolled over, then curled her legs to her body.

Applejack took her rope and tied Rainbow’s legs with a little room for motion together. “Now, roll to yer belly and lift yer head a bit.” Rainbow gulped as anxiety churned inside her.

“AJ, you know I’m afraid of claws, right?”

“Claustrophobic? Yeah, Ah’ll keep that in mind.”

“No, I mean I trust you to keep me safe, alright?”

They shared a smile as Rainbow lifted her head and Applejack pulled a bitless bridle she had hidden beneath her and fastened it to Rainbow’s head firmly. “Young mare, you’ve been a might naughty, and Ah think ya need a lesson in proper manners by takin’ care’a yerself when I was inches away.”

Applejack tied the remaining rope to the ring and moved back Rainbow’s body and ended the rope with a firm knot at Rainbow’s tail. She moved to leave the bed and Rainbow began to feel fear creep into her. “Uh, Miss, you’re not leaving my like this, are you?”

Applejack left the bed and made to leave the room. “Miss?! AJ? Where’re you goin’?”

Applejack lowered her head and shook what Rainbow realized were the saddlebags from last night. She moved for a moment then slipped the bags onto her neck and climbed onto the bed, making her way back to the trussed mare.

“Ya trust me, right, Dashing?”

Rainbow nodded as best she could, realizing she really was tied well. “Yeah, this’ getting really freakin’ smexy.”

“Well, let’s start yer lesson,” Applejack said moving in front and past Rainbow and lowering her front, “kiss me.”

Rainbow looked at the pussy about a foot from her muzzle’s reach and leaned forward, the tension against her tail was uncomfortable enough to stop her. “Back up, I can’t reach.”

“That’s up to you ta figure out.”

Rainbow huffed and tried to get up, laying again as she nearly fell over. Then she began to wiggle her legs one at a time until she began to move closer. When her breath touched Applejack’s body, she moved forward. “Hey! I was about to start!”

“C’mon, you sure as applesauce can do better than that.”

Rainbow smirked and moved ahead, faster this time and managed to brush her tongue against the wetness her lover was making before Applejack moved away. The flavor was enough to send a tingle to Rainbow’s clit and she felt the urge to come growing, and the only way that’d happen is if Applejack got there first.

She moved swiftly and brushed her nose against Applejack’s slit letting her tongue glide inside the orange mare before she moved a little bit further ahead. The excitement of the task of getting to Applejack’s pussy was becoming more fun than the growing arousal inside herself with each time Applejack moved less and less until finally, Rainbow was able to let her tongue slide as far as it could go.

The tastes and feeling of Applejack’s walls massaging her tongue was just what they both needed. Applejack dug her hooves into the bed and bit her lip as Rainbow pleasured her. Light nips against her dock, a tongue at the crook of space beneath her tail sent her into a passionate giggle fit, and a swirl from the outside to the depths of her vagina sent the orange mare to the edge.

She hated to do it, but she forced herself to crawl forward enough to leave Rainbow looking at her with a frown. Her muzzle was wet and pussy juice dripped from her chin as she retracted her tongue into her mouth. “What the buck, I was having fun.”

“You haven’t learned yer lesson and Ah didn’t get ya all trussed fer one little orgasm.”

“Little? I’d make your hooves curl! Turn around and back up here and I’ll show you.”

Applejack stood and sauntered to the side and slipped the bags off her body and dropped the contents beside them. With a hum, she took and moved from Rainbow’s view to her behind. “Well, well. What have we here? A little mare’s happy ta see me, hey there you,” Applejack said as she rubbed the very ribbed dildo’s flared tip against Rainbow’s juicy slit, rubbing the edge of the flare against Rainbow’s winking clit.

She took the dildo in her teeth and swung it hard, slapping Rainbow’s cutie mark with it. Rainbow yelped in surprise and her bound body made to move, but couldn’t. “AJ, why’d you hit me with a cock?”

“You cussed last night, don’t think Ah don’t remember just cuz Ah was a bit tipsy.” She slapped Rainbow’s other side with the dildo and before Rainbow could complain the dildo was an inch inside her pussy.

With a tittering moan, Rainbow trembled as her clit rubbed against its ridged surface. Applejack pushed it in as far as she knew her tongue could reach and stopped to twist it around. “Now, Ah asked around and did some readin’, this’ called the spin of doom, now why’d anypony call it that, I wonder?”

Rainbow gasped as it started to turn slowly inside her. It rubbed its phallic size against every single spot she’d known since she and Applejack started having sex and by the second complete rotation she whined and shook, trying to ride the wave that struck her out of nowhere. “AJ, I’m cumming! I’m cumming right now,” she managed as her cunt gripped the rod inside her and clenched it for all her body could while marecum leaked from her pussy all around it, dribbling to the bed.

Applejack pressed it deeper into the mare’s body while twisting it with each centimeter it went. Squishing and squelching sounds escaped Rainbow’s love hole as Applejack started pumping the cock in and out of the extremely sensitive and wet mare. Rainbow fought the bridle to no avail as her tail stung with each tug of her head.

“Fritter, I need a break, why’re you,” she whined again, then whimpered as she bit the inside of her top lip. Sitting up, bound, bridled, and at the mercy of her marefriend, all Rainbow could do was focus on the pleasure being inflicted on her, then a spark of something in her chest started to grow.

“AJ, Sweet Celestia, what’s happening? Ugggh, I’m cumming, aga-” she managed as her body rocked front and back, a strained whinney, and a little more marecum signaled what’d happened. She panted as it washed through her from her clit to her nose and back twice.

“Ok, that’s enough’a that.” She let the dildo go and watched as it slowly slid from Rainbow’s pussy and each ribbed ring that popped out of her vagina sent a full body tremble from Rainbow until it reached the last couple inches and gravity took it. With a final squelch her pussy slapped closed with a squeal from Rainbow as the flare pulled one last time against her insides.

Applejack picked the dildo up and moved it away, leaving Rainbow a sweating, panting, marecum drenched mess. Hey head fell forward as Applejack untied her tail and let her head free and with a heave of air, Rainbow groaned into the bedspread. She had a minute to recover before she was rolled to the side and Applejack laid beside her, facing the other way.

Rainbow gulped. “Now what?”

“This’ called L is fir lover, I think on account’a us doin’ what we’re about ta do.”

Applejack slipped a foreleg under Rainbow and rolled her on top of her, using her legs to hold Rainbow in place above her. “Okay,” Rainbow said as she looked at the pussy below her muzzle, “am I really supposed to-” she managed before the rope atop her bridle tugged her down and her mouth rubbed against Applejack’s wet slit.

“Eeyup,” was all she said as she lifted her head and licked the cum from the back of Rainbow’s right leg in a long swath, “mmm-mmm. Ah can’t believe Ah love tastin’ the rainbow so much. Yer like… a nice mix’a candy and warm beet juice,” she said swallowing.

Rainbow relished the sensations and her tongue slipped from her mouth and right into Applejack’s lips, gliding from clit to bottom and back. The heat was intense and she wondered if her body was putting off so much. She had one thought, and that was to taste some hot apple pie.

With a cheeky grin she rubbed her chin lightly against Applejack’s clit and let it rest there and started using her tongue to slide the length of Applejack’s opening with a purposeful dip into the source of the heat right in the middle with each pass. The feeling of Applejack’s soft, hot, quivering vagina against her tongue as she dipped into it was sexy as hell and after the third pass, Applejack’s hips moved when the opening to her tunnel was teased.

With a breath in, Rainbow plunged her tongue into Applejack and felt her hind end cleaning pause. A firm bite on her inner thigh sent a spasm of pleasure into her own pussy and not two second after the bite ended she felt a familiar tongue dancing around the edge of her pussy hole.

As Rainbow searched from a new angle with her tongue she trembled as her own body was gently penetrated. She didn’t realize how sensitive she still was until Applejack started, and it didn’t help that this was her first time in a sixty-nine, nor did it help that she’d already cummed twice and was slipping to number three knowing there was nothing she could do to stop it.

The spark in her chest grew to a warm tingle and she buried her muzzle into Applejack, turning her head and pressing harder as her tongue sought out her goal. She pulled back for air and pressed again into the wet, puffy lips. Ignoring the amazing feeling of her own body being serviced again, she smiled as each ridge and bump that passed her tongue elicited a squeeze along the length.

Then she found it. The soft spot she’d heard of but until then had never found. A spot Applejack found inside her and teased her with a dozen times before. She found Applejack’s G spot, and she wasn’t going to leave it alone. She pulled back for breathable air and rested her chin against Applejack’s clit as she used her tongue like an expert and pressed against the spot with swirls and solid passes.

Applejack stopped her own labial assault and nearly inhaled Rainbow’s dripping juices as the surprise and wonderous feeling stunned her. Her legs all tensed and hugged Rainbow’s tied body to her as she grunted in rhythm with the multitude of affections she was experiencing. A spark in her own chest that she’d ignored had blossomed into a warmth that was beginning to spread.

She couldn’t move, her thoughts were cloudy, and her only thought of was her honest to goodness love for the mare she was with at that very moment.

She lifted her head and sought Rainbow’s own spot, finding it with ease as she started mewling into Rainbow’s saturated lips. They both refused to stop their individual licking and slurping, mewling into each other, for each other, and as a mutual climax built the warmth turned into a burning flame and as they came together a flash of light emitted from their bodies.

The binds holding Rainbow flew off. Her wings extended fully and she wrapped her legs around Applejack’s own legs and body and the rode each other as the massive orgasm passed through the both of them like ripples in a pond. Back and forth, from Rainbow’s nose to Applejack’s and back, they shared the same orgasm and once it had finished peaking they released one another, fell side by side, and promptly passed out.

In unison they appeared standing before each other in a void of light blue and orange spheres the size of an apple, looking at each other, in each others eyes, sharing something nopony can describe as their souls seemed to merge. They approached and embraced one another in a hug that brought all the thousands of floating spheres into them.

Applejack was the first to awaken. She was cuddling Rainbow, face to face, her own mane a mess and familiar scents on her breath as she inhaled Rainbow’s scent. She placed a forehoof on Rainbow’s cheek and caressed her lover, leaning in to kiss her.

Rainbow purred and returned the kiss, waking with her lips connected and a smile formed. “Hey,” was all Rainbow could say when the kiss broke.

“Ah dreamed of you,” Applejack said in a hushed tone.

Rainbow giggled softly. “Me too. It was like, we were meant to be one, or something.”

“Yeah… Rainbow?”

“Hrm?”

“Why’s our bed sheets blue?”

They both turned their gaze to the room they were in and sucked in a breath. “We’re in the castle’s guest room,” Rainbow stated. “Did you bang me across the city?”

Applejack swatted Rainbow playfully, if not a little too hard. “Ah don’t ‘bang’, and no. Last Ah remember we were,” she paused and blushed. Rainbow giggled at her and kissed her freckled cheek.

“I love when your freckles turn that shade of pink.”

“Thanks, but how’d we get here?”

They both rolled from the bed and went to the door, Applejack opened it and they winced at the morning sun shining at them. Two guards snapped to attention, their armor rattling and startling Rainbow enough she leapt onto Applejack’s back. She smiled awkwardly and hovered off as a guard spoke.

“Ladies, please accompany me to the royal suite. Princess Luna and Celestia request your audience.”

Without waiting for a reply the guards turned to the right and the mares were flanked, guided to follow them. “Wait, Ah don’t have my hat,” Applejack managed but the room was behind them and the stoic guard showed no sign of stopping for her.

Nearly twenty minutes later they arrived at the doorway to what was apparently Celestia’s room, of some sort as indicated by her cutie mark emblem sized across the door. A few seconds later they were escorted into the room and took note it seemed very simple for a princess’ room with few decorations, a basic office setup against the far wall facing a small window overlooking the Setting Sun Mountains, and a large pile of sitting cushions against the wall near an arched doorway leading to another room.

“Ah like it, it’s cozy.”

“I think it’s boring, where’s the Princess? What’s goin’ on here?”

“Ah, Rainbow Dash, I can tell you’re anxious as ever,” Luna called from the other room. She entered first, followed by Celestia. “It’s always a pleasure to meet you both,” she said as the celestial sisters bowed in return with their horns respectfully and gestured Applejack and Rainbow to sit on cushions that were levitating into the center of the room.

“Thank ya kindly, ma’am, er, ma’am’s, er, yer highnesses, but why’re we here? Last we knew we were, uh-”

“Rubbing our problems away,” Rainbow grinned larger after another swat from Applejack.

“What she means is-”

“It’s quite alright, we understand the ways of nature and it’s completely acceptable in both our views,” Celestia began, “but the reason you’re here in the castle is a little difficult to explain. Sister?”

Luna rolled her eyes. “Very well, since I must be the one to say it, your event last night was quite epic indeed. Not so much that anypony heard your actions, mind you,” she allowed a ghost of a smile as the mares blushed and looked at their hooves, “but you activated your elements and appeared so suddenly in the dream realm that I was forced from my duties in another dream and pulled into yours.

“A rare shared dream in which your souls intertwined and you both became one in harmony,” she looked between the mares who were scrunching their eyebrows. “What that means is that you two are bound by your elements to each other, and my sister and I haven’t any idea how that’s possible.

“Praytell, can you explain anything, excluding the feeling of release, that you felt?”

Rainbow sat up and extended her wings in a blink. “Trust! I, uh, felt trust,” she rubbed the back of her neck.

“Ah felt like I’d do anything to be by her side, and that I wanted ta be with her ferever,” Applejack blushed.

“I kinda felt that too, but it was like, I’d do anything to make her happy and feel good.”

“And Ah felt that bein’ with you was the best thing ta happen in my love life.”

“Oh! Totally got a better one! I knew I’d be by yer side through thick and thin,” Rainbow beamed.

“It ain’t a contest, Rainbow.”

“Never said it was, just that if it were, I’d’ve just won.”

“No ya wouldn’t’a!”

“Would, too.”

“Not!”

“Too!”

“Not!”

“Girls,” Celestia stated with a soft look that quieted both mares, “Applejack is correct, it isn’t a contest,” Applejack smirked smugly, “it’s a bonding that is truly rare and perhaps I should Twilight document it,” she smiled as both mares shouted their disapproval.

“Celestia,” Luna scolded, “you mustn’t tease them right now. Girls, as it is, you’re in no trouble and the coffers will cover damages to the room you were in as your elements caused the windows to crack and other such minor damages. You are free to return to your homes as your vacation is at an end, whenever you wish. You may stay in the guest suite for as long as you want, however we request you keep the volume of your, activities lower as sound travels quite far in the palace halls.”

“Yes, your highness,” they replied in unison.

Rainbow leaned over and kissed Applejack’s cheek. “I think we can keep it quiet enough, right, AJ?”

“Rainbow, Ah’m not doin’ anythin’ else with ya til Ah get some ice back there ta cool it down and then a massage, a deluxe one.”

All the mares laughed. “You may wish to try the ultimate package,” Celestia winked her eye as she stood with Luna, “it’s far better than the deluxe.”

Luna nodded once and both mares turned to the main door while Rainbow and Applejack watched, slackjaw, as the sisters opened the door and left them. “Uh, Applejack, did Princess, uh, both of ‘em just admit to what I think they did?”

“Ah don’t know, but that does sound a might relaxin’. Maybe next time we’re here though, Ah’m plum tuckered on matin’.”

“That makes one of us, let’s do it in the other room!” One of the guards cleared her throat loudly from outside the door. “What, wanna watch or join in?” She laughed as she was swatted again.

“Let’s get back to our room and then out. Ah’ve gotta hankerin’ fer some food and it’s a long way to downtown.”

“Why not eat here? Castle, free, food…”

“Rainbow Dash…” she relented, “fine, guard, can ya take us to the chow hall? Normal food, none’a that fancy stuff if ya got it.”

“Right away, Lady Applejack,” the blushing guard stated and turned left to guide them.

“Lady Applejack? She’s no lady, trust me.” Rainbow dodged another punch that was going to be less than playful. “See, no lady would hit a dame as hot as me in a million years.”

“Ah’ll show you a lady,” Applejack hopped up and tried to grab Rainbow.

“Yeah, filly, where’s yer wings? Oh yeah, totally expired. You need these babies ta get even close,” Rainbow inverted herself and regretted it as Applejack was able to grab her mane in her teeth and pulled her down into a noogie. “Ah, eep, no more! No more, auntie! Auntie! Sheesh, learn to take a joke.”

“I have you, why’d I need another joke? C’mon, let’s eat then get my hat, our stuff, and head back ta Ponyville.”

“Fine, but I get first plate,” Rainbow flew ahead with Applejack chasing deeper into the castle while the guard shook her head.

“Well, I can only be so lucky,” she mumbled as she took to a canter to catch up.


---***---


They boarded the train to Ponyville right away, missing home and their friends was taking a bit of a toll on them. They napped, kissed, snuck into the sleeping car and had a quickie, then returned to their seat, holding each other closely.

They watched as scenery passed and for some reason the train was traveling a bit slower than usual, but they enjoyed the time together as Applejack felt time pass and Rainbow snored quietly. The train arrived finally under heavy cloud cover that Rainbow cursed quietly about. “I told them to have it partly cloudy, not completely cloudy with a chance of rain.”

“Ah, don’t fret. Ah’m sure they’ll have it cleared up once ya get’m ta do their job, right?”

They gathered their saddlebags, suitcases, a small box each, and disembarked the train. The station was oddly empty but they trotted around the ticket and lounge area to quite the surprise.

The whole town was there, facing them and stomping their hooves with a few hoots and hollers. Rainbow smirked and looked to Applejack, dropped all her items, and held the box between her wings and tore it open. She presented her offering. “AJ, it’s a quicksilver hoof cover from Luna herself,” she watched as Pinkie hopped to the front of the crowd and a banner rose, held by the crowd with an explosion of confetti and streamers, “AJ, will you be my herdmate?”

Applejack gulped and before she could answer there was a boom in the sky as the Wonderbolts cleared the sky, above the cloud layer the same question was written in the clouds.

Applejack took her hat off and pulled out the horseshoe. “It’s enchanted from Celestia. And Ah’d be honored to be your herdmate as long as you’ll be mine.”

They grinned and lunged into a tight hug as the crowd erupted and with the cue from Pinkie, the Wonderbolts performed a stunt that showered the crowd with sparkles.

As the mares exchanged gifts they couldn’t help but look at the crowd and grin before holding their hooves up to show their union.