Rainbow Dash's Futureby scorpclawFFChaptersFarm WorkI Want to be With YouFriendly AdvicePreparing for DepartureA World of MeaningEpilogueFarm WorkRainbow Dash’s Future Chapter 1 – Farm Work Today was a pretty normal day in Ponyville, and everypony seem to be keeping to their general routine. Fluttershy was nurturing her animals, Rarity was making a dress for an average client, Pinke Pie was working with the Cakes to make her favorite cupcakes, and Applejack was helping out on the farm. A normal routine. Twilight was sitting at her table, reading a book entitled “Deep History, Book II” while the cyan pegasus, Rainbow Dash, was reading Daring Do on the library’s stairs. She was currently on the third book, and with every turn of the page, she enjoyed it more and more. It actually made Twilight happy that Rainbow Dash was reading, especially since it gave her a sense that she wasn’t the only who could read more than a few pages everyday. The two of them continued to occupy themselves with their books until a knock came at the door. Rainbow Dash looked up from her book, but it was Twilight that got up and actually opened the door. On the other end of it was Applejack. “Hello, Applejack,” Twilight said with her general sweet and intellectual tone. “What brings you to the library?” “Hi, Twilight. I’m having some trouble over at the farm and I can’t get Big MacIntosh to help me since he’s hurt himself again.” “That seems to happen a lot to him.” “He’s a strong pony, but his bones just aren’t what they used to be. I was just wondering if you had any time to come and help me out. It’s okay if you don’t, though.” Twilight shook her head and said apologetically, “Sorry Applejack, but I have a request from the princess to read up on ancient spells and other historical things, so I’m going to be busy with the books for the next couple of days.” “That’s okay, Twi. You can go back to your readin’. Though, I was wondering if you’ve see Rainbow Dash anywhere. Fluttershy said she was too busy also, and I think a set of wings could help out a lot.” Twilight nodded and pointed with her towards the stairs. “Yeah. She’s over here on the stairs reading Daring Do. She’s already on the third book, and it makes me glad that she’s actually reading all on her own.” Applejack took a glimpse onto the inside of the library and noticed Rainbow Dash rolling her eyes as she approached the door. “Twilight, you don’t have to go around telling everypony about me reading Daring Do. It makes me sound like an egghead, and I don’t want to go there.” Applejack chuckled and Twilight simply smiled. “Oh come on Rainbow Dash. You know you enjoy being an… “egghead” like me. You’ll just have to come to terms with it when your time comes.” “Heh, yeah right. After Daring Do, I’m not even going to put a hoof into your library for as long as I shall live.” Rainbow Dash stuck her chest out with pride, as if she had just made some really bold statement. “Then I guess it’s good that there’s another 22 books to go. You better get reading, Rainbow Dash.” Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes at Twilight again before looking over at Applejack, who was still standing outside of the library. “You needed something, AJ?” Applejack smiled, because she liked it when Rainbow Dash called her AJ. It was the only nickname that her friends have given her, and she has grown quite fond of it. Though, it was less that the nickname made her smile, but the fact that Rainbow Dash was the one to say it. Yes, it was true that Applejack could use some wings on the farm to help her finish even quicker, but that wasn’t the main reason why she wanted Rainbow Dash to help her out. She didn’t want to admit it to any of her friends, but she actually had a bit of a crush on Rainbow Dash, especially after their encounter with the Running of the Leaves. Although they showed each other a lot of competitiveness, Applejack definitely felt a connection with Rainbow Dash. She just hoped that Rainbow Dash would feel the same way about her. Applejack, while concealing an even larger smile, managed to respond, “Yes, I was hoping you would help me out on the farm for a little bit today. If it’s too much to ask, I can always do it myself. I’m up to the challenge.” Twilight shook her head and said, “Please don’t make yourself go through a ‘challenge’, Applejack. I’ve seen what you’re like when you do something like that, and it’s just not healthy.” Applejack was going to respond with some arrogant statement that she could handle it, but Rainbow Dash interjected. “It’s alright, Twilight. I’ve been in here for too long and I need to stretch out my wings.” “But you only got here a half hour ago.” “I know. I’m surprised I made it that long. I guess I am becoming an egghead like you said.” Twilight rolled her eyes and decided to just go back to her reading. Rainbow Dash went outside of the library and closed the door behind her. “Besides, what are friends for? I’ve got your back, Applejack.” “And I always have your back, RD. Even if I don’t make that quite clear on certain occasions, I really mean it.” Rainbow Dash smiled and said, “Thanks, AJ. So what is it that you need me to do?” “I’ll fill you in while we head to Sweet Apple Acres. It shouldn’t be too difficult, even for a pony like you.” “What’s that supposed to mean?” Applejack chuckled to herself and responded, “Calm down, sugar cube. I’m only pulling your leg.” Rainbow Dash chuckled and walked with Applejack to the farm. Applejack briefly gave Rainbow a small description of what she wanted her to do. She basically just wanted her to help uproot a couple of trees that have long been dead and need plucking. Rainbow Dash was up to the task. Upon arriving at Sweet Apple Acres shortly after, Applejack led Rainbow over to where the dead trees were sitting. “For some reason in this particular spot, the trees just didn’t want to grow. Though, I don’t care too much for them being gone. Their apples used to be the sour ones.” “So… how are we going to do this?” “Well… we can bring up every root to make taking this down easier, but we got two strong ponies here, so we can just do some tugging. I’ll push from one end and you’ll pull from the other.” Rainbow Dash, feeling somewhat proud that Applejack called her strong, said, “Sounds like a plan.” She flew up and grabbed a piece of the shaft and made sure she had a good grip on it. Applejack below grabbed at the base and began to push at it hard, which signaled RD to start pulling. Despite their best efforts, the two of them were only able to move the tree a few degrees before losing the energy to continue. RD slid down the tree and landed at the base next to Applejack. She leaned against half of the tree and half of Applejack for leverage. “I didn’t think that this would be so difficult. You said we had two strong ponies here.” Applejack didn’t allow the fact that Rainbow Dash was leaning against her distract her from what was going on. (Even if she did enjoy the attention, something she didn’t quite want before in her life). “These here trees are a little old like the rest of them. Them roots must be deep.” “Well… what do you think we should do?” Applejack took a good look around the farm and noticed a medium-sized roped coiled up in front of the barn. She quickly went to retrieve and came back. “I have an idea. I can tie you up to this and connect you to the tree. Since you’re such a strong flier, then this should be a bit easier.” Rainbow Dash got up from the ground and frowned. “I don’t really like being tied up, though. How can I even trust that you’re going to let me go and just leave me connected to the tree? You know I can’t handle your knots.” Applejack put a hoof on Rainbow Dash’s shoulder and said reassuringly, “Stop being so paranoid, RD. You know I would never do something like that to you. I can tell you that you won’t be in the rope for very long, either.” Rainbow Dash smiled again. “Okay, AJ, I trust you. Though, let’s make this quick.” Rainbow shifted her body to the left so that Applejack could easily tie the rope around her. She tied it tightly, but she didn’t realize that she was tying a rope to a pony. Rainbow Dash flinched. “Not so tight, AJ. Loosen up.” Applejack got uncomfortable and replied, “Sorry Dashie. Didn’t mean to hurt you like that.” She loosened the rope, relieving the tension on Rainbow’s body. Rainbow sighed when everything didn’t feel quite so tight, though she did take notice to the “Dashie” nickname that Applejack carelessly slipped out. “What kind of nickname is ‘Dashie’? Only Pinkie Pie seems to be the one who says silly names like that.” Applejack remained uncomfortable. “I didn’t call you Dashie,” Applejack lied. “If I did, it would’ve just been a slip of the tongue.” As the Element of Honesty, Applejack wasn’t the best liar, so Rainbow Dash caught onto it quickly. Though, she didn’t pester Applejack about that and just continued to go with the task at hand. “So… are you going to tie me up to the tree?” Applejack’s actions served as her answer. She threw the other end of the rope around the tree and tightened it as best as she could. “Alright, Rainbow, you’re all set. Let’s try this again and let’s see if we can get this thing to topple over.” Rainbow Dash nodded her head and flew up into the air again. Without Applejack even giving a signal, she began to jerk herself forward as hard as she could. Applejack joined in shortly after. It didn’t take long for Applejack to notice that roots began to come out of the ground. “That’s it, Rainbow Dash. We’re making some progress, so keep it up.” Applejack’s remark encouraged Rainbow Dash to push even more. The sooner that the tree went down, the sooner that she would get out of the rope. Though, it didn’t take too much more power and time before RD noticed a shift in weight. She turned her head around and noticed that the tree was at about a 45 degree angle. She got out of the way while Applejack did the final push to completely uproot the tree. “Phew. I’ve been working on this farm for a long time, but these trees are just too stubborn to be knocked over.” “Well, we got one. How many more do we need?” Applejack pointed to another tree that had no leaves on it and was grey at the base. “That’s the last one. Me and Big MacIntosh got two others before one fell on top of him. I had to force him to stay in bed, because it really looked like it hurt.” “It must be a bummer for something like that to happen to him. Hopefully he feels better soon.” “Thanks, Sugarcube. I’ll be sure to let him know that you said that. Now, let’s get that last tree down so you can be on your way.” “Alright.” Rainbow Dash flew swiftly to the adjacent tree and waited for Applejack to tie the rope around it. When she did, the two of them did the same process as before, with better results. This one seemed a bit looser, so it went down way easier. “Well, that wasn’t that bad, Rainbow. Thanks for all of your help.” “What about all of these dead trees lying on the ground? Do you need help with those?” “No, I can deal with those in the morning. Shouldn’t be too hard.” “Alright, well… can you untie me now,” Rainbow asked, feeling uncomfortable with the rope being on her for more than just a few minutes. “Sure.” Applejack grabbed at the knot around RD’s body, and got the rope off. Though, what was underneath the rope made Applejack a little uneasy. “Oh my, I’m sorry Rainbow Dash. I afraid that the rope gave you a little bit of rope burn. I can call a doctor to patch that up for you. Oh… this is all my fault. I’m sorry Rainbow.” Rainbow looked back at noticed the spot that Applejack was referring to. “What are you overreacting about, AJ? It’s just a little scratch. Nothing I can’t handle.” “Well… alright. If you say so.” “Great! I’ll be heading off now. I’ll see you tomorrow, right?” “But, don’t you want to stay for dinner? It’s the least I can do for helping me out.” Rainbow Dash shook her head. “No way. Like I said… this is what friends do. If you ever need me to help out on the farm, AJ, I’ll be there for you.” Rainbow Dash smiled and rolled her eyes. “At least your jobs aren’t all sappy and fru-fru like Rarity’s are. If I have to put on another dress…” “I see. Alright, well then I will see you tomorrow. We can grab lunch or something.” Rainbow smiled and responded, “It’s a date.” Though, both of their interpretations of what a ‘date’ is were completely different. If Rainbow Dash had any idea at that moment that Applejack had a little crush on her, she wouldn’t have ever said it. Though, she did, and Applejack was left the entire night with her conflicting thoughts. Does a date mean a date-date? Or just a date with a friend? Oh… why is this so confusing? Why do I even like Rainbow Dash? She’s competitive, snobby… charming, friendly, has a nice smile… Oh dear Celestia, I’m not going to sleep tonight. I Want to be With YouRainbow Dash’s Future Chapter 2 – I Want to be With You As an organized and an occasionally laid-back pony, Applejack doesn’t find herself stressing out a lot when she’s out on the farm. Even though she doesn’t feel stressed now, she did feel a little bit of tension building up inside of her. All of last night and the following morning, Applejack only noticed one thing of herself: she was distracted by Rainbow Dash. Whenever she had a little crush on somepony, she normally would just wave and smile at that somepony. Not Rainbow Dash, though. She was special for some reason. Applejack had been awake for a couple of hours, but she had only done a few of her morning chores. She felt bad that she was falling behind on what she needed to do, but she didn’t want to do anything unless she was completely focused on it. As we have seen, AJ wasn’t focused at all. She simply paced back and forth in her room as she waited for her “date” with Rainbow Dash. Oh yeah, the date. AJ still wanted it to be an actual date, mainly to test to see if she really liked Rainbow Dash the way that she did. A crush is just a crush, Applejack thought. It could mean anything and it could mean nothing. She was actually considering treating the lunch as though it were an actual date, even if Rainbow Dash didn't think of it that way. Though, that would turn out to be too awkward for the both of them. Applejack continued to pace around her room for another moment until there was a knock at her door. Applejack turned around and noticed her sister, Applebloom, walk in. “Hi, Applebloom. Is there something you need, little sis?” “I was just wondering why you’re making so much noise. The Crusaders and I are trying to think of something to get our cutie marks, and we keep getting distracted by your pacing.” Applejack looked over her sister and noticed Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle peeking into the room. “I’m sorry Applebloom. Just a little distracted is all. Why don’t you three fillies go down to your clubhouse? I’m sure you’ll get a whole lot more quiet in there.” “We want to, but one of Scootaloo’s bright ideas made the clubhouse… not good.” Scootaloo blushed and tried to look away, obviously knowing what Applebloom was talking about. “Is everything alright, Applejack? I tried talking to you at dinner and breakfast, but you kept looking out the window or something. Is it something I said?” Applejack wanted to tell her sister the truth and reassure her that this wasn’t her fault, but at the same time, she didn’t. So… she did a combination of the two. “I’m just having a little problem with Rainbow Dash. Nothing to worry about, though.” Scootaloo walked into the room somewhat excitedly. “Rainbow Dash? What could be the problem between you and Rainbow Dash? She’s just too awesome to have problems.” Applebloom made a motion with her hooves for Scootaloo to calm down since she was “fan-girling” again. Yeah, she is pretty awesome, Applejack thought to herself. After shaking the thought, she returned her focus to the young orange pegasus. “It’s a little complicated and I don’t want to involve the three of you in it. Why don’t you three get back to what you were doing and I’ll get out of your hair? I have some chores to get done, anyways.” Applebloom did seem a tad bit skeptical, but she knew that she could trust her sister’s judgement. Applejack is the Element of Honesty, after all. She just simply left with the rest of the crusaders and returned to her room. Applejack felt a little ashamed of herself that she couldn’t even tell her own sister about her crush, but she was feeling tension and anxiety, so it didn’t seem reasonable. It was almost as if she was ashamed of actually having a crush. Though, she didn’t let that get to her head. She headed downstairs and saw Big Mac and Granny Smith in the kitchen. She said hello to the both of them and went out to continue her chores, feeling a little better than she did before. A couple hours later, Applejack checked the time and noticed that it was 20 minutes until noon, the time that she was expected to meet Rainbow Dash. She finished whatever it was she was doing and went inside the home to get washed up. She didn’t want to be anything special for Rainbow Dash, but she surely didn’t want to be dirty and sweaty for her. After an incredibly short bath, AJ told her family that she was going out with Rainbow Dash for lunch. She went out into the streets of Ponyville and looked around the market to see if she could see a cyan pegasus. It didn’t take long for Applejack to catch a glimpse of Rainbow Dash’s rainbow hair in the distance. She walked up to her. “Hi, Rainbow. You ready for lunch?” “You, bet. Where do you want to go?” “I don’t know. I was hoping you would have a plan.” “Well, I do, but I thought I would ask first.” The two of them smiled and giggled. “There is this one café that I’ve been keeping my eye on.” Rainbow Dash giggled to herself again. “It was actually the café that Twilight was at when she had the Great Grand Galloping ticket when it began to rain. Good thing I was there to make sure she and her food stayed dry.” Applejack gave Rainbow Dash a straight, but funny look. “Yeah, and all I see is one big cheater who was just trying to get her hooves on a Gala ticket.” Rainbow Dash faked a shocked look on her face and said, “What? Me?” Applejack chuckled to herself, finding it funny that Rainbow could pull off such a face. “Alright, sucarcube, very funny. Here, let me take you to that Ponyville Café. I’ve been there once myself, and I think it’s worth getting rained on to eat there.” Applejack began walking and Rainbow Dash followed at her side. “Alright. The thing that Twilight was eating actually looked pretty good before I… never mind.” “Before you completely made it rain on top of her, making her absolutely miserable with her soggy food. Oh… I was there, Rainbow.” Rainbow Dash faked a smile. “Heh. What can I say? I wanted to go to the Gala really badly. If only it didn’t turn out to be so terrible. The Wonderbolts didn’t even notice me at all.” “Well, they must’ve noticed you somehow. You’re in the Wonderbolt Academy, and Spitfire knows what you’re capable of. You’re the fastest flyer in Equestria.” Rainbow Dash’s faked smile turned into a real one. “Thanks, AJ. I really could use the confidence boost, especially with what’s been going on lately.” “Like what?” “Oh, uh… nothing. It’s not that important.” Applejack was a little concerned for Rainbow Dash, but she didn’t bug her. She clearly didn’t want to talk about it. A few moments later, Applejack noticed that she was only a few feet away from the Ponyville Café. “Here we are, Rainbow. Let’s get a table.” The two of them enter the café and found a seat just for the two of them. The waitress pony smiled at them, asking them if they wanted any appetizers. “No thanks,” Applejack responded. “Are you sure,” the waitress asked. “We have a large salad that the two of you can share.” Applejack seemed interested. “That sounds like a good idea. Do you want to share, Rainbow?” However, Rainbow Dash had a different idea of this ‘date’. “Nah, I’ll just stick with my own food. You can have it yourself if you want.” Rainbow Dash then buried herself in her menu to find something that even relatively interested her. Applejack, disappointed, looked up at the waitress. “I think we’ll just have to skip the salad today.” “That’s alright. You two look over the menu and I’ll be back soon.” The waitress then went to tend to her next group of customers. The two of them reviewed the menu for a brief moment before the waitress took their drink and food order. After the waitress left, there was a long period of time with awkward silence with only a few gaps of mild conversation. Applejack knew this was her fault, and she felt silly that she is letting her small little crush meddle with her friendship with one of her closest friends. Unfortunately, to add salt to an open wound, Rainbow Dash was catching on to this. “AJ, are you okay? I’ve been trying to talk to you for the past 30 minutes and you’ve been coming up with all of these really short answers. What happened to the buddy that I remember who could keep a conversation going?” Applejack wasn’t even paying attention to what Rainbow Dash was saying until she said the last sentence. She shook herself out of her silly guilt and responded tentatively. “I just haven’t been in the mood for the past couple of days, sugarcube. I’ve just been real distracted about something, and I just can’t get it out of my mind.” “You seemed fine yesterday. Is there something I can do?” Maybe you can say how you feel about me, Applejack thought to herself. Even if you say you don’t like me like that, it’ll at least give me some closure. End my suffering. Applejack wanted to say all of that, but she knew that she couldn’t. Not yet, at least. “I don’t really want to talk about it.” “Oh, well… if you’re not up for eating right now, we can just leave.” “No, of course not. I wouldn’t do something like that to you. Not for my sake. Besides, you being here with me is making me feel better already.” Rainbow Dash blushed, but it wasn’t enough to be noticeable from the naked eye. “Well, that’s what I’m here for. To make you feel better.” And just like that… it was as if the engine of their friendship was started once more. Their conversation made it all the way through the meal. Applejack didn’t seem quite so stressed out anymore, because she threw that crush of her’s to the back of her mind and brought out her friendship. Though, she knew that she wasn’t going to keep it that way forever. Upon finishing their meals, their plates of leftover crumbs were taken away and the two were left with full stomachs. “You were right, Applejack. This café really is amazing.” “Next time, I’ll see if I can get you to Cloudsdale. There’s this restaurant that’s been there forever, and their food is to die for. I’ll pay, too.” “You don’t have to do that, sugarcube. I’ll fully capable of paying for myself.” “Alright.” “So… what are you going to do after this?” “Oh, I have plans with some of my friends from the Wonderbolt Academy. I promised them that I would show them a bit of my stuff. They’ve been asking for me to do a demonstration for a long time.” Applejack smiled, though she frowned on the inside. She knew that her time with Rainbow Dash was coming to an end. “Alright, I guess I’ll just go back to the farm to just get some more chores done.” “Okay. Maybe I’ll see you tomorrow. I don’t know if I’ll be busy or not.” Applejack nodded her head and Rainbow Dash walked herself out. Soon after, Applejack left to see Rainbow Dash fly off to the Wonderbolt Academy. She sighed, even though she was happy for RD’s success at the Academy. She returned to the town center and looked around. At this time of day, there is a lot of activity on the streets of Ponyville. Lyra was sitting on a bench, looking over Bon-Bon’s shoulder to see what she was reading. Derpy was walking around with a brown colt with an hourglass as a cutie mark. AJ didn’t recognize the colt, even though she knew most of the residents in Ponyville. She then saw Fluttershy at a vegetable stall, holding a bag with lettuce on the inside. She walked up to the shy yellow mare and grabbed her attention. “Oh hi, Applejack. I haven’t seen you in a few days.” “Yeah. I’ve been busy.” On impulse, Applejack spontaneously asked Fluttershy something. “Are you going home after this?” “I’m going home right now. Why?” “Do you mind if I tag along? I need to talk to you about something… personal, and I would rather we be alone for me to say it.” “Oh, of course. This sounds urgent.” The two mares then went back to Fluttershy’s cottage. Friendly AdviceRainbow Dash’s Future Chapter 3 – Friendly Advice Applejack and Fluttershy returned to Fluttershy’s cottage to discuss one of AJ’s few secrets. Upon getting there, the two mares were greeted by Fluttershy’s pet bunny, Angel, who seemed in need of something. “Is it alright if I prepare Angel’s lunch? He’s looking really hungry.” “Sure, sugarcube. I’m in no hurry.” Fluttershy smiled and allowed Applejack get comfortable in her cottage. Applejack, being the farm girl that she is, liked being in the home to look at the flora that grew everywhere and the fauna that ran around and played. It was full of life, unlike the farm, which was generally quite boring. The most activity that happens out there is when Applebloom is crusading with her friends, and even then, the three fillies tend to stay secluded in their clubhouse. Though she loved her life on the farm, Applejack felt that the life was getting slowly less exciting. It was a life that needed someone in it. Applejack fled her thoughts once again when Fluttershy returned with a salad bowl in her mouth. She dropped it in front of her bunny and smiled when Angel began eating at a rapid pace. “Oh, I hadn’t realized that you were this hungry.” Fluttershy smiled sheepishly and then returned her attention to Applejack. “I’m sorry to keep you waiting, Applejack. What is it that you want to talk about?” Applejack briefly thought if it was a bad idea to be out so soon with her feelings with Rainbow Dash, even though all of it could be a simple crush and would simply disappear. Though, she had to convince herself that she seemed to like Rainbow Dash differently and more affectionately than any other pony in Equestria. So… she tried her best to express that feeling. “Hey, Fluttershy… have you ever… liked one of your friends? One of your close friends?” Fluttershy didn’t hesitate to shake her head. “Oh, no. I love all of my friends, but I wouldn’t want to be in a relationship.” Fluttershy gave Applejack a secluded smile. “I would probably just mess it up, anyways.” “Well, what if I told you that I kinda… like Rainbow Dash.” Fluttershy smiled and giggled a little to herself. Though, she stopped herself abruptly and actually began to frown for some reason. “Well, I actually wouldn’t be surprised all that much. The way the two of you talk to each other always made me feel like you were going to end up liking each other.” “Then why are you frowning, Fluttershy? You’re making it look as if that is all a bad thing.” “Oh, I want to tell you Applejack, but I was told to keep something a secret. I don’t even know why she even entrusted me with something like this, because I’m not that great with keeping secrets.” Applejack’s mind began to wander about what the secret could possibly be. Hopefully she doesn’t like somepony else, Applejack thought to herself. Hopefully she doesn’t like Fluttershy! Oh, I wouldn’t know what to do if I ever saw Rainbow Dash with one of my closest friends. Though, Applejack didn’t allow her mind to fool her without even hearing what the secret could possibly be. Applejack, being devious with knowledge of how Fluttershy works, made a sly decision to trick her. “It’s alright, Fluttershy. You don’t have to tell me the secret or anything. I think I’ll just be going now and… fantasize about Rainbow Dash.” Applejack flinched on the inside. “You know, I’ll just go home and ponder if I should ever be with her. Thanks for the help, Fluttershy.” As Applejack began stepping out of the cottage, Fluttershy called out her name, forcing AJ to turn around. “You don’t want to do that, Applejack. Rainbow Dash got a letter from the Wonderbolt Academy telling her that she will get her results about a final test. If she passes this test, she will become a Wonderbolt. If that happens, then…” “We won’t be seeing her much anymore,” Applejack said, frowning. “Oh, I should’ve just kept my mouth shut. I’m sorry, Applejack.” “No, you needed to tell me this, Fluttershy. I would’ve gone off and done something stupid if you didn’t stop me.” Applejack frowned some more, upset by the fact that all of her crushes seem to be such failures (even though she’s had only a few crushes in her life). “Do you know when she is supposed to find out?” Fluttershy lowered her head. “Tonight. She flies up to the academy in a few hours.” She didn’t even have to raise her head to know how upset Applejack was. “I’m sorry, Applejack. If it makes you feel better, I think you two would be really great together.” “Thanks, Fluttershy, but it doesn’t like it’s going to matter anymore. I shouldn’t keep you from your animals or anything, so I’ll just be going.” Fluttershy didn’t say anything more than another apology before Applejack. She felt bad about her friend’s misfortune, more than she usually does. Applejack tried to keep her head up high. She tried to convince herself that she was being silly and that her life isn’t all that bad without Rainbow Dash to support it. It was working a little, but she knew (like before) that she could only conceal these feelings for so long. With Applejack and Rainbow Dash being such good friends, there was no way that she could avoid her forever. Not even at that moment. Applejack looked up to the sky to notice that Rainbow Dash was flying overhead. She’s probably going over to Fluttershy’s house to talk about the Wonderbolts or something. Or… to begin her good-byes. Applejack ran out of Rainbow Dash’s peripheral vision. She didn’t want RD to know that she was at Fluttershy’s house just a moment ago. After evading Rainbow Dash’s gaze, Applejack slowly returned to Ponyville. Upon arriving in the town, the town center didn’t seem quite as crowded as it was only an hour before. Applejack, not wanting to return to the farm in her mental state, decided to head to Twilight’s treehouse library. She knew that being with friends would probably help ease her mind. Applejack knocked on the door. Spike opened it a few moments later and smiled at her. “Hi, Applejack. Are you looking for Twilight?” “Hi, Spike,” Applejack said, talking as if nothing had happened a moment before. “Yes, is it alright if I come in?” “Of course.” Spike stepped to the side and allowed AJ to enter. Applejack looked around and noticed Twilight getting up from reading a book. “Hi, Twilight. I hope I’m not disturbing you” “Not at all, Applejack. Is there something you want to talk to me about?” “Yeah. It’s about Rainbow Dash. Did you know that she’s going to be told that she’s going to be a Wonderbolt tonight?” Twilight sighed. “Yes. Pinkie, Rarity, and Fluttershy know about it, too.” Applejack was shocked that she was the only one that Rainbow Dash didn’t tell about being a Wonderbolt. “Why would she tell you guys about it and not me? Did I say something mean to her or something?” “I doubt it, Applejack. But the truth is, Rainbow wouldn’t tell us why we were supposed to keep it a secret. We’re as much in the dark about it as you are.” “That just makes no sense to me. I thought we were best friends, and I guess she just can’t even tell me that she’s going to be leaving.” “Maybe it’s because you’re best friends that she can’t tell you.” “Come again?” Twilight sighed. “Maybe she is too afraid to tell her best friend that she is going to be leaving. Rainbow Dash might not show it on the outside, but on the inside, she can be a bit of a coward about these things. She is, dare I say… sentimental sometimes.” Applejack frowned. “So what do you suppose I do?” “Well… you can either confront her about it, or you can wait until tonight when we figure out the results on her test. I imagine the result will be the same in both situations.” “With her becoming a Wonderbolt and having absolutely no time to spend with us?” “I wish it wouldn’t come down to that, but I think that’s how it’s going to go.” Applejack couldn’t help but notice Twilight’s bluntness, but she knew that she was right. Becoming a Wonderbolt is Rainbow Dash’s dream, and she’s probably not going to be around a whole lot. She wanted to ask some more questions, but she already had all the answers that she needed. Also, she didn’t want Twilight to see the tears that were beginning to fall from her eyes. Yes. Tears. Applejack shielded her face and said with a somewhat trembling voice. “Thanks for letting me know, Twilight. You’re a good friend.” Applejack then ran out of the library before Twilight could confront her about why she was crying. Now… she felt that there was nopony at that moment to comfort her. She went back to Sweet Apple Acres, avoiding everyone’s gaze in her emotional state. She didn’t go into her home, because then she would have to explain to her family why she had been crying. Applejack knew that they only wanted to help, but she didn’t really want anypony’s pity, nor did she want to talk with anypony. She went out to the apple farm, the one place where she knew that she was comfortable. She went over to the tree that both she and Rainbow Dash had yanked out of the ground the day before. It was still toppled over and lying useless on the ground. It was one of her chores to get rid of it, but she never got around to it. Applejack got comfortable next to the trunk of the tree and lied down. That trunk could perhaps serve to be the last official memory of Rainbow Dash, her brief crush and long-time friend. Just thinking about it made her cry even more. As if to add more pain to her sorrow, clouds began arriving to overcast Ponyville. She had forgotten that there was a rainy day schedule for the late afternoon, but at that point, she didn’t care too much. She just allowed one drop after another fall on her before it began raining fairly hard. She was used to being out in the rain, so this wasn’t a big deal to her. Though, she knew that she was getting drenched and that she would need to get out of the rain before she caught a cold. She still didn’t return to the home, but she did end up finding shelter underneath a big tree that was covering the rain very well. It was actually quite comfortable under the tree, with the light cool blowing in her mane. Applejack lied down again and began to fall asleep, her tears being drowned out by the surrounding rain. If anything, Applejack just wanted that day to be over. So her suffering could end. Preparing for DepartureRainbow Dash’s Future Chapter 4 – Preparing for Departure Rainbow Dash felt a little tense about her entire situation. She was leaving for the Wonderbolt Academy in a couple of hours, and she was actually worried that they might not accept her to be a Wonderbolt. Although she believed in herself as the best flier in Ponyville, the position is highly-esteemed and is difficult to receive. To clear her mind before that big moment, she ditched her friends up at that academy to be with her closest friends. She flew down to Ponyville and went to Fluttershy's cottage. She knew that she could confide in her to be a good friend. If she had looked down upon her arrival at the home, she would've noticed a crying Applejack fleeing to Sweet Apple Acres. Though, she was too lost in her own thoughts to really be paying attention to what was below her. Just what was ahead of her. Rainbow Dash landed herself and knocked on Fluttershy’s door. A few moments later, the door opened and Fluttershy opened the door, expecting Applejack. When she saw Rainbow Dash, she was a little surprised. “Oh, Rainbow Dash. Don’t you have to leave for the Wonderbolt Academy soon?” Rainbow tried to keep a slick smile to avoid spreading her discomfort to somepony else. Though, it didn't last long when a frown soon came over her. “I’m actually a little nervous about the whole thing, Fluttershy. I just wanted to be around friends before I go.” “Oh, well you just missed Applejack.” “Was she here? I still can’t find the guts to tell her that I’m leaving for the Wonderbolts tonight.” Fluttershy sighed, knowing that she wasn't allowed to tell Rainbow Dash about Applejack’s feelings for her. “Why can't you tell her,” Fluttershy asked curiously. “Wouldn't it be better if you told all of your friends so that we can help you through this?” “It’s because Applejack is my best friend. We're both really big competitors. We're both really good at what we do. We're both awesome. I just don't have the guts right now to tell her.” “Well you’re going to have to tell her eventually. She’ll be upset if you leave without saying good-bye, and I don't want Applejack to be upset.” Fluttershy knew that Applejack already knew everything already, but she wanted Rainbow Dash to tell her face-to-face. That’s the way that it should be. “I know, I know. I’ll tell her before I leave. I just don't know what to say. If I say something wrong like I do with everypony else, then we may stay friends after this.” “Just tell her the truth, Rainbow Dash. You’re a good friend, and she’ll love you no matter the choice you make.” Rainbow Dash lowered her head in shame. “Yeah, you’re right. You may be a little quiet, Fluttershy, but you’re really smart about this kind of stuff.” Fluttershy smiled sheepishly. “I just like helping my friends.” She continued to smile at Rainbow Dash with a long, drawn-out pause. “Is there anything else that you need Rainbow Dash? You can stay for dinner if you would like to.” “No thanks, Fluttershy. I have some important things that I need to get done. Besides, you already helped me a lot, so you can't possibly help me much more than you have already. Thanks.” “You're welcome. Good luck on becoming a Wonderbolt. I know that you will get it.” Rainbow Dash nodded and smiled. She left the cottage with a little more courage than she did coming in. Though, she was still a little nervous about telling her best friend about her possible departure. Especially after the fun days she’s had, Rainbow Dash has developed quite an attachment to the orange farm mare. Though, it seems that the attachment will soon come to an end. At least, that’s what she thought was going to happen. She still wasn't even entirely sure if she would even get accepted. Most ponies don't. Though, Rainbow Dash removed that idea from her mind, because despite her feelings for her friends, she still really wanted to be a Wonderbolt. Those were her main priorities and she planned on sticking with them. Rainbow Dash took off from the ground, heading for Sweet Apple Acres. Despite everything that she feared, she knew that she had to make everything right with her best friend. Celestia as her witness and guide, she will be successful. No matter what happens. A couple of minutes later, Rainbow Dash landed herself in front of the Apples’ farm house. Before she knocked, she felt a drop of water drop into her fur. Rainbow looked up to see that it was beginning to rain. She had forgotten about the scheduled rain since she requested a day-off. When she becomes a Wonderbolt, she won't be doing much weather control. She knew she would miss it. Rainbow Dash knocked on the door and it opened a few moments later, showing Applebloom on the other side. "Oh, hi Applebloom. Is Applejack home?” The young filly shook her head. “She said she would be home by now, but I haven't seen her.” Rainbow Dash sighed. “Alright, I'll come back later.” Before Rainbow Dash could fly away, Applebloom managed to stop her. “Did you fix your problems with Applejack,” she asked curiously. “What are you talking about? What problems?” “She was acting real weird this morning, and she said that you two have been having problems or somethin’. I don't really want to get involved, but she's my big sister.” “I see." Rainbow Dash tried to avoid getting into a conflict with a filly that may not understand her and Applejack's situation. "No, we're fine. Don't worry about it.” Applebloom nodded her head and said, “Okay. Well, have a good night.” Rainbow Dash nodded and Applebloom closed the door. Instead of flying off, Rainbow Dash decided to walk into the large and extensive apple farm. She just wanted to think. Things are getting weird, Rainbow Dash thought. Applejack is not home and she apparently is having problems with me even though she just had lunch with me and seemed perfectly fine. Well... other than the personal thing that she didn't want to talk about. This is just too confusing. Rainbow Dash continued to walk around the farm until she saw a familiar sight. She walked over to the tree that she and Applejack knocked over. She was feeling fine then, too, Rainbow Dash thought curiously. She turned around to come back to the farmhouse to see if she could catch Applejack somehow. Though, she stopped, because a hint of orange stood out to her in the rain. She looked over at one of the bigger trees, and saw a familiar hat next to a familiar orange mare. Rainbow Dash was a little shocked and wondered why Applejack was sitting out in the rain all by herself. Upon a second look, she noticed that Applejack had her eyes closed. Is she sleeping, Rainbow asked herself. Rainbow Dash went over to the sleeping farm mare and put a hoof on her shoulder. She began to gently shake Applejack and said, “Hey, wake up.” Without too much effort, Applejack slowly opened her eyes. When they focused on the pony that was shaking her, she immediately went into a fully awake state and stared at Rainbow Dash. “Oh no, how long was I asleep for? Did you already leave for the Academy? Oh, I should have been there to see you off, but I fell asleep. Are you a Wonderbolt?” Rainbow Dash raised a hoof in front of Applejack’s mouth in order to calm her down. “Applejack, it’s okay. I don't leave for a bit.” Applejack slowly calmed herself. “Oh. Sorry for the little freak-out. I don’t normally sleep on an occasion like this.” “How did you even know about the whole Wonderbolts thing? I don’t remember telling you anything about it.” “Oh… uh,” Applejack mumbled hesitantly. She didn’t want to rat Fluttershy out or anything, but she felt that she might as well be honest with Rainbow Dash. “I was over at Fluttershy’s cottage earlier today, and she told me about your trip.” She was going to apologize for being nosy about Rainbow Dash’s business, but then she got a little upset by a little detail. “Though, I shouldn’t have had to hear it from her. Why couldn’t you tell me? Apparently everypony else knows.” Rainbow Dash took a hesitant step back, brushing her wet out of her eyes. “Uh… well.” Rainbow Dash bowed her head in shame. “I guess I was just a little afraid.” Applejack softened up and acknowledged Rainbow Dash’s shame. “Afraid of what?” “Well, I didn’t want to ruin our friendship or anything with me leaving. If I just went up to you and told you that I may become a Wonderbolt, then I would probably say something stupid. I would be leaving Ponyville on the wrong hoof with you. I don’t want that. You’re my best friend and I want to be on good terms with you forever.” Applejack patted Rainbow Dash on the shoulder. “I want all of that, too. But we’re best friends. You should be able to tell me anything, no matter how stupid you make of it. I’ll still accept your decisions no matter what.” Rainbow Dash pouted and glared at Applejack, getting an awkward glance in return. “Then why don’t you tell me what’s going on, Applejack?” “I don’t know what you’r—“ “You’ve been acting so strange, lately. On random occasions, you just decided to get depressed around me, and Applebloom even told me that you have so-called “problems” with me. Applejack… I don’t know what you’re being so silent about, but like you said, you can tell me anything. I’d rather leave here with some questions answered, but that’s up to you.” Applejack tried to devise a plan to make her way around the awkward situation, but she knew that at this point, she would have to be honest with Rainbow Dash. The remainder of their friendship depended on it. “Alright, you asked for it. I hope we can still be friends after I tell you this.” That statement alone made Rainbow Dash worried. What could Applejack mean by ‘I hope we can still be friends,’ Rainbow Dash thought. “We’ve been friends for so long, but lately… I’ve been thinking of you more than a friend. I know this may sound strange, Rainbow Dash, but I actually…” Applejack bowed her head in embarrassment. “kind of like you. A lot.” Rainbow Dash was shocked, but she wasn’t shocked too much. It was almost as if she expected this to happen. “I don’t know what to say to that.” “I’m not asking you to say anything right now. I want you to do what your heart desires, and I know your heart desires being a Wonderbolt. It’s what you’ve always wanted.” Applejack began to tear up, but to her surprise, Rainbow Dash was doing the same. “Oh, sugarcube. Why are you crying?” “Because this is all so complicated for me right now. You’re my best friend. How am I supposed to go become a Wonderbolt when I know my best friend ever has feelings for me? I don’t even know why you like me. I’m such a show-off around you.” “I couldn’t even begin to tell you why I feel this way. I just do.” Rainbow Dash wiped a tear from her own cheek and replied, “Alright. Well… time is running out for me. I have to go to the Wonderbolt Academy now to see if I become a Wonderbolt. If I do, I will be back later tonight to pack up my stuff and… say my good-byes.” Despite everything that had just happened in only a few moments, Applejack managed to say, “Good luck. You’re the fastest flyer in Equestria. They would be mighty stupid if they said no to you.” Without a response or even a nod, Rainbow Dash flew off into the rain, leaving the awkward scenario behind her. She flew slowly, giving her a chance to get her mind cleared before her possible promotion. Though, she was going to need more than just a slow flight to get her mind cleared of every last emotion that she was feeling at that moment. A World of MeaningRainbow Dash’s Future Chapter 5 – A World of Meaning "Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don't resist them - that only creates sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like." Albert Einstein Applejack was introduced into a world of meaning when she was born. She has been through a lot of twists and turns and her life has went through some "natural and spontaneous changes." She went to Manehattan in search of a true life with her Aunt and Uncle Orange, only to find herself returning back to where she started. She has dealt with being an outcast in the grand city of Canterlot for being a simpleton with her apple treats. She has faced off against competition and nearly failed to the hands of the Flim Flam Brothers. She has been through all of these twist and turns and have managed to overcome them. Though, Rainbow Dash's farewell seems to be Applejack's one and only spontaneous change that she cannot handle. She wants to resist it, despite the sorrow that may come of it. Though, what would be the alternative? Rainbow Dash's Sonic Rainboom is the reason why Applejack found her place in Ponyville on Sweet Apple Acres. Rainbow Dash felt a similar rejection from the Wonderbolts, the ponies that represent her passion, at the Grand Galloping Gala. Rainbow Dash assisted in the competitive war of who can make the most apple cider, a moment where Applejack was most vulnerable. This was despite the fact that Rainbow Dash was upset with her for not supplying her with apple cider earlier that day. "You don't know what you have until it's gone." John Petryoing The point is, Rainbow Dash was always there for Applejack, and Applejack sadly chose to see it when Rainbow Dash was leaving. Even though she didn't know that Rainbow Dash was leaving at the time, she still wished that had noticed it earlier. Now it's too late. When Rainbow Dash flew off to the distance, Applejack was left in the rain. Despite all of the emotions that she could possibly feel at that moment, she decided to go with the emotion that hurt the most: acceptance. She accepted that Rainbow Dash may never return her feelings. She "let reality be reality" and she seemed perfectly fine with it. For now. She stayed under the large tree for another few moments until she finally began feeling shivers all around her body. She ran off into the rain and went back into the house. She silently went up to her room so that she wouldn't disturb anypony (and so nopony would disturb her). She slowly closed her door and place her hat on a nightstand. Applejack began to lay down in her bed, but she didn't close her eyes. She wasn't tired, and there was no way at this point that she would be able to fall asleep. There were too many things roaming around in her mind, and she felt that she never would be able to get some sleep without resolving every single thought. Though, every thought had the same solution: accepting all of the events that had just happened and letting them occur naturally. Such a simple solution, though a painful one. She slowly lowered her head into her pillow and sleep overtook her. It was perhaps one of the best feelings to sleep, especially following the events earlier that day. The next morning, Applejack actually woke up pretty peacefully. The sun was just barely bringing itself above the horizon, bringing a pleasant sunrise and introducing Ponyville into a new day. A new start. Applejack got out of bed, put her hat on her head, and walked out of the room. As she walked downstairs to head to the kitchen, she heard some general chitter-chatter and even a bit of laughter. Most of the Apples tend to wake up early, even if they didn't need to do anything that day. It was a form of habit that they developed. Applejack assumed that Applebloom and Big Macintosh were talking over some breakfast. Though, when she made it down to the kitchen, she was shocked to see how wrong she was. Applejack almost thought she was dreaming when she saw Rainbow Dash in her kitchen, telling an amusing story to Applebloom and Big Macintosh. Despite all of the sadness that had occurred only hours before, here was Rainbow Dash, seemingly happy to be in her crush's home. "Rainbow Dash," Applejack said in a somewhat exasperated tone. In mid-sentence, Rainbow Dash stopped and looked up at the confused farm mare. Surprisingly, Rainbow Dash smiled with her signature slick smile. She looked back down to her previous audience and said, "Sorry to leave you like this guys, but I actually need to talk to Applejack." "Oh, I don't want to interrupt your story. I can just wait outside." "Yeah... this is actually pretty important, Applejack, and you're probably going to want to hear it." Although, Rainbow Dash's tone was a little more sullen, she still managed to keep a smile on her. This worried Applejack, because such a smile could've meant anything. "Uh... alright. Would you like to go up to my room or somethin'?" "Actually... can we go out to the orchard?" Applejack nodded. "That sounds good." Applejack went ahead of Rainbow Dash and opened the door for the both of them. When Rainbow Dash stepped out, Applejack closed the door behind them and began going back into the orchard. It was almost too emotional for Applejack to be going back out there, because last night, she was in misery. Now, everything seems uncomfortably calm. Applejack went a few more steps and realized that she had had enough with the brief silence and agony. "Uh, Rainbow Dash?" "Yes, Applejack." "Excuse me for being a bit impatient, but what is it that you wanted to tell me? I'm getting a bit anxious." "Well, if we're being honest, I'm a bit anxious myself. I'm almost... afraid to tell you." "Remember our conversation last night? You can tell me anything." Rainbow Dash turned away from Applejack and said, "Yeah, I remember the conversation. But I think it was last night's conversation that is making me feel so... weird. I'm sure... you feel the same way. Especially how I ditched you and everything." Applejack nodded. "Yeah, yesterday was weird, but I guess... that's all behind us. You can still tell me anything. I certainly did last night." "Alright, I guess that's only fair." Rainbow Dash a folded piece of paper revealed that she had been holding while going out to the orchard. She handed it to Applejack. "What is this, Rainbow Dash?" Rainbow Dash frowned. "Just read it." Applejack began to worry with the frown on Rainbow Dash's face. She tentatively opened up the folded piece of paper and began to read its contents to herself. Dear Ms. Rainbow Dash, We are proud to inform you that you have passed your training and show promising qualities to become a Wonderbolt. However, all of the spots on the Wonderbolt team have been filled and we regretfully tell you that you have not qualified... ... ... ... She didn't even bother to read on, because she knew what the meaning of this letter. Despite Rainbow Dash's immense flying capabilities, there were still people that are better than her. She wanted to bring all of her thoughts to a close, though she knew that there was something that was more important. Being there for Rainbow Dash. "Rainbow Dash... I'm sorry. I don't even know what to say other than that." Before, Applejack could break out into more sorrys and hugs, Rainbow Dash raised a hoof up to her mouth. "You know, don't be sorry. I'm actually alright. Of course, I was upset for a little bit after getting this letter, but then it gave me something to think about. It allowed me to think about what I would be leaving behind if I decided to join the Wonderbolts." "I would leave behind a place that I could call home for so long. I have learned to get to know and get along with these ponies, instead of getting bullied by them like I was in Cloudsdale. I would leave behind a life where everypony knows who I am and what I can be capable of. If I were up there with the Wonderbolts, everypony would have high expectations of me, and even if I were able to meet a lot of those expectations, I would not meet all of them." "You know what the worst thing there is for me to leave behind? My best friends. Especially you Applejack." Applejack blushed, enjoying the recognition. "Like... I'm the Element of Loyalty along with 5 of the most awesome Elements of Harmony." Applejack smiled, trying really hard to hold back a tear that was threatening to flow out of her left eye. "So... does that mean you're happy that you're not going to be a Wonderbolt?" "Well... I would like to be a Wonderbolt and everything, because that's my dream. But I would much rather stay here in Ponyville where everything is awesome." "That's great, sugarcube. I was afraid that you were going to be really upset, and I can't stand it when you're upset." Applejack caught Rainbow Dash staring and smiling at her. Applejack blushed. "You know... because I can't stand it when any of my friends are upset." Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes. "Yeah right, Applejack. I can see right through that blush of your's." Applejack tried to keep a shy smile. She looked down when she said, "Well... the last time I showed... certain feelings, I never really got a response from you when you flew off to the Academy." Rainbow Dash frowned along with Applejack. "Yeah... I actually thought about that a lot. Probably even more than I thought about being rejected from the Wonderbolt team. To tell you the truth, I was actually tried really hard to keep myself from crying when I stepped into Spitfire's office. She probably would have taken away my acceptance if I started crying... if she, you know, gave me an acceptance." "Wow... that was my fault," Applejack said sullenly. "Don't be sorry, Applejack. There is a point to all of this. I realized that if I wasn't going to be a Wonderbolt or anything, then it may be worth it to make something happen in my life. So..." Rainbow Dash blushed cutely. "I hope you didn't really... change your mind about me yesterday, because I think I changed my mind about you." "No, Rainbow Dash. I still have the exact same feelings for you. You've always been there for me whenever things got a little... hard. You've felt what I've felt. I have given you so many reasons for you to be angry with me, but you always went past those things and continued to smile. I love your good, cheerful side and your bad, arrogant side equally. I lo..." Applejack tried to refrain from using the 'L' word in this sense. "I like you a lot, sugarcube." Rainbow Dash blushed wildly, because he had not realized that he would ever make it to this point. "I don't even know what to say, actually." "Let me help you with that, partner." Applejack leaned her head in. When Rainbow Dash caught the 'memo', she began to lean her head forward as well. They closed their eyes in sync with each other. A moment later, their lips connected, an embrace representing the beginning of their love and relationship. They continued to kiss for another few moments until Applejack came up for a bit of air. She was smiling and a faint blush filled her cheeks. She looked around the farm and noticed that there were some passersby that were staring. Applebloom was included in the crowd. She was still fascinated about love and matchmaking after she tried to pair up Big Macintosh with Cheerilee, and seeing Rainbow Dash and Applejack kiss made her smile. She ran off to get the rest of the Cutie Mark Crusaders to tell them the exciting news. "Oh, this is embarrassing," Applejack said. "Don't worry about it, Applejack. They were going to find out about it anyways. This town is impossible with secrets." "Heh, I guess you're right." "Maybe we can... put on a show for them, to show that we weren't kidding." Applejack giggled a little more than she expected to. "Yeah, I think I'd be okay with that." Applejack planted another kiss on Rainbow Dash's lips. It was perhaps the most amazing moment that the two have ever experienced and will ever experience. Though, they will have more experiences to come in their relationship that will make them even happier. When they separated, they looked back to Applejack's home to notice that Granny Smith, Big Macintosh, and the entire CMC were looking at them and smiling. Scootaloo for some reason though didn't seem quite as happy. Weird. As embarrassed as Applejack, she still managed to smile. She knew that that's what Rainbow Dash would've wanted. She was proud of her decision, because she wanted to be with Rainbow Dash for the rest of her life. She's not even afraid to think that she will be with her for the rest of her life. It seemed set of stone. That made her smile. Applejack and Rainbow Dash. The new couple of Ponyville. EpilogueRainbow Dash’s Future Epilogue It didn't take long for the remainder of the Mane 6 to find out about Applejack's and Rainbow Dash's new relationship. Rainbow Dash went to visit everypony with Applejack, and she let them know that she didn't end up in the Wonderbolts. Although everypony was sad for her at first, Rainbow Dash let everypony know about their relationship. Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie showed a great deal of excitement for the two mares. Pinkie constantly insisted that she throw a pony for the two of them, but she finally left them alone after Applejack turned her down for the 20th time. She thought that a party would be too much just for two ponies getting into a relationship, though she did remember that Pinkie Pie throws a party for just about every reason. Fluttershy was happy that Applejack actually grew the courage to show her feelings for Rainbow Dash, though she was still upset for Rainbow Dash since she didn't become a Wonderbolt. Rainbow Dash told her not to worry about it. Twilight wasn't actually too surprised that the two ended up together. Although she didn't see the signs like some others have (mainly attributing to her obliviousness), she still thought that the two made a great couple. Rarity felt a similar happiness towards the new couple. After the entire Mane 6 found out about the relationship, the entire town inadvertently found about it as well. Since all of them knew Rainbow Dash and Applejack very well and hold them in high regards for many different reasons, they were all just as excited for Ponyville's newest couple. It was a welcoming that the two could only hope for. A couple of days later, the six friends were having lunch at the Ponyville Cafe. They were joking and laughing and having a good time. It was almost as if nothing changed for the pack of friends, except for the obvious change with Applejack and Rainbow Dash. Lunch was nearing its end and Rarity and Fluttershy have already excused themselves to go get a few things done back at home. Rainbow Dash waved to the two mares as they left and said, "I should probably go, too. I have some stuff that I still have at the Wonderbolt Academy. I would also like to say goodbye to some of friends there, also." Applejack smiled. "Alright, sugarcube. Are you still coming to Sweet Apple Acres for dinner?" Rainbow Dash kissed Applejack briefly on the lips. "Of course. I'll be back in plenty of time for that." Applejack blushed. Twilight smiled at the lovely gesture. "Hey Rainbow Dash. Is it alright if I go with you to the Academy? I have a letter from Princess Celestia to give to Spitfire." "I can just give it to her, Twilight." "I should probably give it to her personally. It's royal stuff, and Princess Celestia entrusted me with it." "Alright. Just don't slow me down too much." "Great," Twilight exclaimed with a smile. "I already reserved a balloon for myself." "Alright. I'll meet you in the town center in about five minutes then." Five minutes later, Twilight took off from the ground and began to follow Rainbow Dash. The Wonderbolt Academy wasn't too far from Ponyville, so it was only a ten minute balloon ride to get there. Twilight landed the balloon and she and Rainbow Dash parted ways. Twilight headed into the main offices and found a door with a gold plaque on it that had the name 'Spitfire' etched into it. Twilight gently knocked on the door and heard someone say "Come in" in from the other side. Twilight opened the door and shut it behind herself. "Hi, my name is Twilight Sparkle and I'm Princess Celestia's student and protégée." Spitfire looked up from what she was doing and smiled. She got up from her chair and raised a hoof to Twilight, who delightfully shook it. "I recognize you from the Gala among a lot of other things. It's nice to meet the princess' student." "It's nothing, Spitfire. The princess has asked me to give you a letter concerning some event for the Wonderbolts." Twilight gave Spitfire the letter. Spitfire took it and gently put it on the desk. Twilight eyed the letter. "Aren't you going to read it?" "I can read it later. I already basically know what it's about, anyways. There is an important matter that I would actually like to discuss with you." "What would that be," Twilight inquired. "You're a good friend of Rainbow Dash's. Would you know why she would just quit when I was just about to give her acceptance into the Wonderbolts?" "What do you mean quit? Rainbow Dash told me that she was rejected." "I don't know what in the hay you're talking about. She walked into my office to get the results of her test and told me that she was quitting." "But she had a letter to prove it, and it had too many official words for Rainbow Dash to have been able to write on her own." Spitfire flatly looked at Twilight and thought about the letter. "Hang on a moment." Spitfire opened a drawer in her desk and took a piece of paper from her desk and held it up to Twilight. "Is this the letter that she showed you?" Twilight read the first sentence and nodded her head. "Yeah, that's the one." "I was filling them out when Rainbow Dash came in. She must've snatched one when I wasn't looking. That's not like her, though. Why would she be this dedicated to joining us since she was a filly and just quit like that?" Twilight thought about it for a second, though she didn't have to think too hard. The minute that Rainbow Dash told all of the ponies that she was "rejected" from the Wonderbolts, she was in a relationship with Applejack. That's the only thing that made any logical sense. "I wouldn't know. I should go talk some sense into her." Twilight's words were dry, because she didn't want to interfere with such a happy relationship. "Don't even bother. If she's going to quit on us, then I don't want her on my team." "So does that mean she can never become a Wonderbolt." "Not while I'm around, she's not." Spitfire sat back down at her desk and gave Twilight a semi-serious look. "Thank you for the letter, Twilight Sparkle. Is there anything else that you're here for, or are we done?" Twilight didn't hesitate when saying, "We're done." Twilight let herself out of the office and headed back to the balloon. She waited another few moments for Rainbow Dash to return with her stuff. "Are we set to go?" Twilight nodded, still kind of shocked of what she just learned moments ago. "Yeah, let's go." Rainbow Dash stepped onto the balloon and they took off for Ponyville. "I'm going to miss those guys. They're the only ponies that can even relatively keep up with me." "Yeah," Twilight said nearly inaudibly. "Rainbow Dash, do you like Applejack?" Rainbow Dash gave Twilight a strange look. "Where the heck did that come from? Of course I like Applejack. I probably would've stayed much longer if I didn't have Applejack waiting for me at home." "Do you like her more than, say, the Wonderbolts?" Rainbow Dash surprisingly didn't hesitate too much when she said, "Yes, I like her more than the Wonderbolts." Twilight couldn't help but smile. It was such a nice feeling to see that Rainbow Dash was actually happy, even though she gave up on the one thing that she loved for several years. "That's good. I'm happy for the two of you." "Thanks, Twilight." The balloon slowly went into the edges of Ponyville. As they landed, Applejack was there waiting for Rainbow Dash. She ran over into Applejack's hooves and they shared another kiss. Love can be one of life's many trade-offs. You can't have it without giving something up. Though, once you have it, it's worth more than anything in the world. Friendship is magic. Love is magic. This is Applejack's and Rainbow Dash's new and official future Author's Note I hope you all enjoyed my first MLP fanfiction. Please comment on anything good (or bad) that you've noticed. I want to write many more of these and I want each one to be better than the last. Otherwise, happy reading.
Farm WorkRainbow Dash’s Future Chapter 1 – Farm Work Today was a pretty normal day in Ponyville, and everypony seem to be keeping to their general routine. Fluttershy was nurturing her animals, Rarity was making a dress for an average client, Pinke Pie was working with the Cakes to make her favorite cupcakes, and Applejack was helping out on the farm. A normal routine. Twilight was sitting at her table, reading a book entitled “Deep History, Book II” while the cyan pegasus, Rainbow Dash, was reading Daring Do on the library’s stairs. She was currently on the third book, and with every turn of the page, she enjoyed it more and more. It actually made Twilight happy that Rainbow Dash was reading, especially since it gave her a sense that she wasn’t the only who could read more than a few pages everyday. The two of them continued to occupy themselves with their books until a knock came at the door. Rainbow Dash looked up from her book, but it was Twilight that got up and actually opened the door. On the other end of it was Applejack. “Hello, Applejack,” Twilight said with her general sweet and intellectual tone. “What brings you to the library?” “Hi, Twilight. I’m having some trouble over at the farm and I can’t get Big MacIntosh to help me since he’s hurt himself again.” “That seems to happen a lot to him.” “He’s a strong pony, but his bones just aren’t what they used to be. I was just wondering if you had any time to come and help me out. It’s okay if you don’t, though.” Twilight shook her head and said apologetically, “Sorry Applejack, but I have a request from the princess to read up on ancient spells and other historical things, so I’m going to be busy with the books for the next couple of days.” “That’s okay, Twi. You can go back to your readin’. Though, I was wondering if you’ve see Rainbow Dash anywhere. Fluttershy said she was too busy also, and I think a set of wings could help out a lot.” Twilight nodded and pointed with her towards the stairs. “Yeah. She’s over here on the stairs reading Daring Do. She’s already on the third book, and it makes me glad that she’s actually reading all on her own.” Applejack took a glimpse onto the inside of the library and noticed Rainbow Dash rolling her eyes as she approached the door. “Twilight, you don’t have to go around telling everypony about me reading Daring Do. It makes me sound like an egghead, and I don’t want to go there.” Applejack chuckled and Twilight simply smiled. “Oh come on Rainbow Dash. You know you enjoy being an… “egghead” like me. You’ll just have to come to terms with it when your time comes.” “Heh, yeah right. After Daring Do, I’m not even going to put a hoof into your library for as long as I shall live.” Rainbow Dash stuck her chest out with pride, as if she had just made some really bold statement. “Then I guess it’s good that there’s another 22 books to go. You better get reading, Rainbow Dash.” Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes at Twilight again before looking over at Applejack, who was still standing outside of the library. “You needed something, AJ?” Applejack smiled, because she liked it when Rainbow Dash called her AJ. It was the only nickname that her friends have given her, and she has grown quite fond of it. Though, it was less that the nickname made her smile, but the fact that Rainbow Dash was the one to say it. Yes, it was true that Applejack could use some wings on the farm to help her finish even quicker, but that wasn’t the main reason why she wanted Rainbow Dash to help her out. She didn’t want to admit it to any of her friends, but she actually had a bit of a crush on Rainbow Dash, especially after their encounter with the Running of the Leaves. Although they showed each other a lot of competitiveness, Applejack definitely felt a connection with Rainbow Dash. She just hoped that Rainbow Dash would feel the same way about her. Applejack, while concealing an even larger smile, managed to respond, “Yes, I was hoping you would help me out on the farm for a little bit today. If it’s too much to ask, I can always do it myself. I’m up to the challenge.” Twilight shook her head and said, “Please don’t make yourself go through a ‘challenge’, Applejack. I’ve seen what you’re like when you do something like that, and it’s just not healthy.” Applejack was going to respond with some arrogant statement that she could handle it, but Rainbow Dash interjected. “It’s alright, Twilight. I’ve been in here for too long and I need to stretch out my wings.” “But you only got here a half hour ago.” “I know. I’m surprised I made it that long. I guess I am becoming an egghead like you said.” Twilight rolled her eyes and decided to just go back to her reading. Rainbow Dash went outside of the library and closed the door behind her. “Besides, what are friends for? I’ve got your back, Applejack.” “And I always have your back, RD. Even if I don’t make that quite clear on certain occasions, I really mean it.” Rainbow Dash smiled and said, “Thanks, AJ. So what is it that you need me to do?” “I’ll fill you in while we head to Sweet Apple Acres. It shouldn’t be too difficult, even for a pony like you.” “What’s that supposed to mean?” Applejack chuckled to herself and responded, “Calm down, sugar cube. I’m only pulling your leg.” Rainbow Dash chuckled and walked with Applejack to the farm. Applejack briefly gave Rainbow a small description of what she wanted her to do. She basically just wanted her to help uproot a couple of trees that have long been dead and need plucking. Rainbow Dash was up to the task. Upon arriving at Sweet Apple Acres shortly after, Applejack led Rainbow over to where the dead trees were sitting. “For some reason in this particular spot, the trees just didn’t want to grow. Though, I don’t care too much for them being gone. Their apples used to be the sour ones.” “So… how are we going to do this?” “Well… we can bring up every root to make taking this down easier, but we got two strong ponies here, so we can just do some tugging. I’ll push from one end and you’ll pull from the other.” Rainbow Dash, feeling somewhat proud that Applejack called her strong, said, “Sounds like a plan.” She flew up and grabbed a piece of the shaft and made sure she had a good grip on it. Applejack below grabbed at the base and began to push at it hard, which signaled RD to start pulling. Despite their best efforts, the two of them were only able to move the tree a few degrees before losing the energy to continue. RD slid down the tree and landed at the base next to Applejack. She leaned against half of the tree and half of Applejack for leverage. “I didn’t think that this would be so difficult. You said we had two strong ponies here.” Applejack didn’t allow the fact that Rainbow Dash was leaning against her distract her from what was going on. (Even if she did enjoy the attention, something she didn’t quite want before in her life). “These here trees are a little old like the rest of them. Them roots must be deep.” “Well… what do you think we should do?” Applejack took a good look around the farm and noticed a medium-sized roped coiled up in front of the barn. She quickly went to retrieve and came back. “I have an idea. I can tie you up to this and connect you to the tree. Since you’re such a strong flier, then this should be a bit easier.” Rainbow Dash got up from the ground and frowned. “I don’t really like being tied up, though. How can I even trust that you’re going to let me go and just leave me connected to the tree? You know I can’t handle your knots.” Applejack put a hoof on Rainbow Dash’s shoulder and said reassuringly, “Stop being so paranoid, RD. You know I would never do something like that to you. I can tell you that you won’t be in the rope for very long, either.” Rainbow Dash smiled again. “Okay, AJ, I trust you. Though, let’s make this quick.” Rainbow shifted her body to the left so that Applejack could easily tie the rope around her. She tied it tightly, but she didn’t realize that she was tying a rope to a pony. Rainbow Dash flinched. “Not so tight, AJ. Loosen up.” Applejack got uncomfortable and replied, “Sorry Dashie. Didn’t mean to hurt you like that.” She loosened the rope, relieving the tension on Rainbow’s body. Rainbow sighed when everything didn’t feel quite so tight, though she did take notice to the “Dashie” nickname that Applejack carelessly slipped out. “What kind of nickname is ‘Dashie’? Only Pinkie Pie seems to be the one who says silly names like that.” Applejack remained uncomfortable. “I didn’t call you Dashie,” Applejack lied. “If I did, it would’ve just been a slip of the tongue.” As the Element of Honesty, Applejack wasn’t the best liar, so Rainbow Dash caught onto it quickly. Though, she didn’t pester Applejack about that and just continued to go with the task at hand. “So… are you going to tie me up to the tree?” Applejack’s actions served as her answer. She threw the other end of the rope around the tree and tightened it as best as she could. “Alright, Rainbow, you’re all set. Let’s try this again and let’s see if we can get this thing to topple over.” Rainbow Dash nodded her head and flew up into the air again. Without Applejack even giving a signal, she began to jerk herself forward as hard as she could. Applejack joined in shortly after. It didn’t take long for Applejack to notice that roots began to come out of the ground. “That’s it, Rainbow Dash. We’re making some progress, so keep it up.” Applejack’s remark encouraged Rainbow Dash to push even more. The sooner that the tree went down, the sooner that she would get out of the rope. Though, it didn’t take too much more power and time before RD noticed a shift in weight. She turned her head around and noticed that the tree was at about a 45 degree angle. She got out of the way while Applejack did the final push to completely uproot the tree. “Phew. I’ve been working on this farm for a long time, but these trees are just too stubborn to be knocked over.” “Well, we got one. How many more do we need?” Applejack pointed to another tree that had no leaves on it and was grey at the base. “That’s the last one. Me and Big MacIntosh got two others before one fell on top of him. I had to force him to stay in bed, because it really looked like it hurt.” “It must be a bummer for something like that to happen to him. Hopefully he feels better soon.” “Thanks, Sugarcube. I’ll be sure to let him know that you said that. Now, let’s get that last tree down so you can be on your way.” “Alright.” Rainbow Dash flew swiftly to the adjacent tree and waited for Applejack to tie the rope around it. When she did, the two of them did the same process as before, with better results. This one seemed a bit looser, so it went down way easier. “Well, that wasn’t that bad, Rainbow. Thanks for all of your help.” “What about all of these dead trees lying on the ground? Do you need help with those?” “No, I can deal with those in the morning. Shouldn’t be too hard.” “Alright, well… can you untie me now,” Rainbow asked, feeling uncomfortable with the rope being on her for more than just a few minutes. “Sure.” Applejack grabbed at the knot around RD’s body, and got the rope off. Though, what was underneath the rope made Applejack a little uneasy. “Oh my, I’m sorry Rainbow Dash. I afraid that the rope gave you a little bit of rope burn. I can call a doctor to patch that up for you. Oh… this is all my fault. I’m sorry Rainbow.” Rainbow looked back at noticed the spot that Applejack was referring to. “What are you overreacting about, AJ? It’s just a little scratch. Nothing I can’t handle.” “Well… alright. If you say so.” “Great! I’ll be heading off now. I’ll see you tomorrow, right?” “But, don’t you want to stay for dinner? It’s the least I can do for helping me out.” Rainbow Dash shook her head. “No way. Like I said… this is what friends do. If you ever need me to help out on the farm, AJ, I’ll be there for you.” Rainbow Dash smiled and rolled her eyes. “At least your jobs aren’t all sappy and fru-fru like Rarity’s are. If I have to put on another dress…” “I see. Alright, well then I will see you tomorrow. We can grab lunch or something.” Rainbow smiled and responded, “It’s a date.” Though, both of their interpretations of what a ‘date’ is were completely different. If Rainbow Dash had any idea at that moment that Applejack had a little crush on her, she wouldn’t have ever said it. Though, she did, and Applejack was left the entire night with her conflicting thoughts. Does a date mean a date-date? Or just a date with a friend? Oh… why is this so confusing? Why do I even like Rainbow Dash? She’s competitive, snobby… charming, friendly, has a nice smile… Oh dear Celestia, I’m not going to sleep tonight.
I Want to be With YouRainbow Dash’s Future Chapter 2 – I Want to be With You As an organized and an occasionally laid-back pony, Applejack doesn’t find herself stressing out a lot when she’s out on the farm. Even though she doesn’t feel stressed now, she did feel a little bit of tension building up inside of her. All of last night and the following morning, Applejack only noticed one thing of herself: she was distracted by Rainbow Dash. Whenever she had a little crush on somepony, she normally would just wave and smile at that somepony. Not Rainbow Dash, though. She was special for some reason. Applejack had been awake for a couple of hours, but she had only done a few of her morning chores. She felt bad that she was falling behind on what she needed to do, but she didn’t want to do anything unless she was completely focused on it. As we have seen, AJ wasn’t focused at all. She simply paced back and forth in her room as she waited for her “date” with Rainbow Dash. Oh yeah, the date. AJ still wanted it to be an actual date, mainly to test to see if she really liked Rainbow Dash the way that she did. A crush is just a crush, Applejack thought. It could mean anything and it could mean nothing. She was actually considering treating the lunch as though it were an actual date, even if Rainbow Dash didn't think of it that way. Though, that would turn out to be too awkward for the both of them. Applejack continued to pace around her room for another moment until there was a knock at her door. Applejack turned around and noticed her sister, Applebloom, walk in. “Hi, Applebloom. Is there something you need, little sis?” “I was just wondering why you’re making so much noise. The Crusaders and I are trying to think of something to get our cutie marks, and we keep getting distracted by your pacing.” Applejack looked over her sister and noticed Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle peeking into the room. “I’m sorry Applebloom. Just a little distracted is all. Why don’t you three fillies go down to your clubhouse? I’m sure you’ll get a whole lot more quiet in there.” “We want to, but one of Scootaloo’s bright ideas made the clubhouse… not good.” Scootaloo blushed and tried to look away, obviously knowing what Applebloom was talking about. “Is everything alright, Applejack? I tried talking to you at dinner and breakfast, but you kept looking out the window or something. Is it something I said?” Applejack wanted to tell her sister the truth and reassure her that this wasn’t her fault, but at the same time, she didn’t. So… she did a combination of the two. “I’m just having a little problem with Rainbow Dash. Nothing to worry about, though.” Scootaloo walked into the room somewhat excitedly. “Rainbow Dash? What could be the problem between you and Rainbow Dash? She’s just too awesome to have problems.” Applebloom made a motion with her hooves for Scootaloo to calm down since she was “fan-girling” again. Yeah, she is pretty awesome, Applejack thought to herself. After shaking the thought, she returned her focus to the young orange pegasus. “It’s a little complicated and I don’t want to involve the three of you in it. Why don’t you three get back to what you were doing and I’ll get out of your hair? I have some chores to get done, anyways.” Applebloom did seem a tad bit skeptical, but she knew that she could trust her sister’s judgement. Applejack is the Element of Honesty, after all. She just simply left with the rest of the crusaders and returned to her room. Applejack felt a little ashamed of herself that she couldn’t even tell her own sister about her crush, but she was feeling tension and anxiety, so it didn’t seem reasonable. It was almost as if she was ashamed of actually having a crush. Though, she didn’t let that get to her head. She headed downstairs and saw Big Mac and Granny Smith in the kitchen. She said hello to the both of them and went out to continue her chores, feeling a little better than she did before. A couple hours later, Applejack checked the time and noticed that it was 20 minutes until noon, the time that she was expected to meet Rainbow Dash. She finished whatever it was she was doing and went inside the home to get washed up. She didn’t want to be anything special for Rainbow Dash, but she surely didn’t want to be dirty and sweaty for her. After an incredibly short bath, AJ told her family that she was going out with Rainbow Dash for lunch. She went out into the streets of Ponyville and looked around the market to see if she could see a cyan pegasus. It didn’t take long for Applejack to catch a glimpse of Rainbow Dash’s rainbow hair in the distance. She walked up to her. “Hi, Rainbow. You ready for lunch?” “You, bet. Where do you want to go?” “I don’t know. I was hoping you would have a plan.” “Well, I do, but I thought I would ask first.” The two of them smiled and giggled. “There is this one café that I’ve been keeping my eye on.” Rainbow Dash giggled to herself again. “It was actually the café that Twilight was at when she had the Great Grand Galloping ticket when it began to rain. Good thing I was there to make sure she and her food stayed dry.” Applejack gave Rainbow Dash a straight, but funny look. “Yeah, and all I see is one big cheater who was just trying to get her hooves on a Gala ticket.” Rainbow Dash faked a shocked look on her face and said, “What? Me?” Applejack chuckled to herself, finding it funny that Rainbow could pull off such a face. “Alright, sucarcube, very funny. Here, let me take you to that Ponyville Café. I’ve been there once myself, and I think it’s worth getting rained on to eat there.” Applejack began walking and Rainbow Dash followed at her side. “Alright. The thing that Twilight was eating actually looked pretty good before I… never mind.” “Before you completely made it rain on top of her, making her absolutely miserable with her soggy food. Oh… I was there, Rainbow.” Rainbow Dash faked a smile. “Heh. What can I say? I wanted to go to the Gala really badly. If only it didn’t turn out to be so terrible. The Wonderbolts didn’t even notice me at all.” “Well, they must’ve noticed you somehow. You’re in the Wonderbolt Academy, and Spitfire knows what you’re capable of. You’re the fastest flyer in Equestria.” Rainbow Dash’s faked smile turned into a real one. “Thanks, AJ. I really could use the confidence boost, especially with what’s been going on lately.” “Like what?” “Oh, uh… nothing. It’s not that important.” Applejack was a little concerned for Rainbow Dash, but she didn’t bug her. She clearly didn’t want to talk about it. A few moments later, Applejack noticed that she was only a few feet away from the Ponyville Café. “Here we are, Rainbow. Let’s get a table.” The two of them enter the café and found a seat just for the two of them. The waitress pony smiled at them, asking them if they wanted any appetizers. “No thanks,” Applejack responded. “Are you sure,” the waitress asked. “We have a large salad that the two of you can share.” Applejack seemed interested. “That sounds like a good idea. Do you want to share, Rainbow?” However, Rainbow Dash had a different idea of this ‘date’. “Nah, I’ll just stick with my own food. You can have it yourself if you want.” Rainbow Dash then buried herself in her menu to find something that even relatively interested her. Applejack, disappointed, looked up at the waitress. “I think we’ll just have to skip the salad today.” “That’s alright. You two look over the menu and I’ll be back soon.” The waitress then went to tend to her next group of customers. The two of them reviewed the menu for a brief moment before the waitress took their drink and food order. After the waitress left, there was a long period of time with awkward silence with only a few gaps of mild conversation. Applejack knew this was her fault, and she felt silly that she is letting her small little crush meddle with her friendship with one of her closest friends. Unfortunately, to add salt to an open wound, Rainbow Dash was catching on to this. “AJ, are you okay? I’ve been trying to talk to you for the past 30 minutes and you’ve been coming up with all of these really short answers. What happened to the buddy that I remember who could keep a conversation going?” Applejack wasn’t even paying attention to what Rainbow Dash was saying until she said the last sentence. She shook herself out of her silly guilt and responded tentatively. “I just haven’t been in the mood for the past couple of days, sugarcube. I’ve just been real distracted about something, and I just can’t get it out of my mind.” “You seemed fine yesterday. Is there something I can do?” Maybe you can say how you feel about me, Applejack thought to herself. Even if you say you don’t like me like that, it’ll at least give me some closure. End my suffering. Applejack wanted to say all of that, but she knew that she couldn’t. Not yet, at least. “I don’t really want to talk about it.” “Oh, well… if you’re not up for eating right now, we can just leave.” “No, of course not. I wouldn’t do something like that to you. Not for my sake. Besides, you being here with me is making me feel better already.” Rainbow Dash blushed, but it wasn’t enough to be noticeable from the naked eye. “Well, that’s what I’m here for. To make you feel better.” And just like that… it was as if the engine of their friendship was started once more. Their conversation made it all the way through the meal. Applejack didn’t seem quite so stressed out anymore, because she threw that crush of her’s to the back of her mind and brought out her friendship. Though, she knew that she wasn’t going to keep it that way forever. Upon finishing their meals, their plates of leftover crumbs were taken away and the two were left with full stomachs. “You were right, Applejack. This café really is amazing.” “Next time, I’ll see if I can get you to Cloudsdale. There’s this restaurant that’s been there forever, and their food is to die for. I’ll pay, too.” “You don’t have to do that, sugarcube. I’ll fully capable of paying for myself.” “Alright.” “So… what are you going to do after this?” “Oh, I have plans with some of my friends from the Wonderbolt Academy. I promised them that I would show them a bit of my stuff. They’ve been asking for me to do a demonstration for a long time.” Applejack smiled, though she frowned on the inside. She knew that her time with Rainbow Dash was coming to an end. “Alright, I guess I’ll just go back to the farm to just get some more chores done.” “Okay. Maybe I’ll see you tomorrow. I don’t know if I’ll be busy or not.” Applejack nodded her head and Rainbow Dash walked herself out. Soon after, Applejack left to see Rainbow Dash fly off to the Wonderbolt Academy. She sighed, even though she was happy for RD’s success at the Academy. She returned to the town center and looked around. At this time of day, there is a lot of activity on the streets of Ponyville. Lyra was sitting on a bench, looking over Bon-Bon’s shoulder to see what she was reading. Derpy was walking around with a brown colt with an hourglass as a cutie mark. AJ didn’t recognize the colt, even though she knew most of the residents in Ponyville. She then saw Fluttershy at a vegetable stall, holding a bag with lettuce on the inside. She walked up to the shy yellow mare and grabbed her attention. “Oh hi, Applejack. I haven’t seen you in a few days.” “Yeah. I’ve been busy.” On impulse, Applejack spontaneously asked Fluttershy something. “Are you going home after this?” “I’m going home right now. Why?” “Do you mind if I tag along? I need to talk to you about something… personal, and I would rather we be alone for me to say it.” “Oh, of course. This sounds urgent.” The two mares then went back to Fluttershy’s cottage.
Friendly AdviceRainbow Dash’s Future Chapter 3 – Friendly Advice Applejack and Fluttershy returned to Fluttershy’s cottage to discuss one of AJ’s few secrets. Upon getting there, the two mares were greeted by Fluttershy’s pet bunny, Angel, who seemed in need of something. “Is it alright if I prepare Angel’s lunch? He’s looking really hungry.” “Sure, sugarcube. I’m in no hurry.” Fluttershy smiled and allowed Applejack get comfortable in her cottage. Applejack, being the farm girl that she is, liked being in the home to look at the flora that grew everywhere and the fauna that ran around and played. It was full of life, unlike the farm, which was generally quite boring. The most activity that happens out there is when Applebloom is crusading with her friends, and even then, the three fillies tend to stay secluded in their clubhouse. Though she loved her life on the farm, Applejack felt that the life was getting slowly less exciting. It was a life that needed someone in it. Applejack fled her thoughts once again when Fluttershy returned with a salad bowl in her mouth. She dropped it in front of her bunny and smiled when Angel began eating at a rapid pace. “Oh, I hadn’t realized that you were this hungry.” Fluttershy smiled sheepishly and then returned her attention to Applejack. “I’m sorry to keep you waiting, Applejack. What is it that you want to talk about?” Applejack briefly thought if it was a bad idea to be out so soon with her feelings with Rainbow Dash, even though all of it could be a simple crush and would simply disappear. Though, she had to convince herself that she seemed to like Rainbow Dash differently and more affectionately than any other pony in Equestria. So… she tried her best to express that feeling. “Hey, Fluttershy… have you ever… liked one of your friends? One of your close friends?” Fluttershy didn’t hesitate to shake her head. “Oh, no. I love all of my friends, but I wouldn’t want to be in a relationship.” Fluttershy gave Applejack a secluded smile. “I would probably just mess it up, anyways.” “Well, what if I told you that I kinda… like Rainbow Dash.” Fluttershy smiled and giggled a little to herself. Though, she stopped herself abruptly and actually began to frown for some reason. “Well, I actually wouldn’t be surprised all that much. The way the two of you talk to each other always made me feel like you were going to end up liking each other.” “Then why are you frowning, Fluttershy? You’re making it look as if that is all a bad thing.” “Oh, I want to tell you Applejack, but I was told to keep something a secret. I don’t even know why she even entrusted me with something like this, because I’m not that great with keeping secrets.” Applejack’s mind began to wander about what the secret could possibly be. Hopefully she doesn’t like somepony else, Applejack thought to herself. Hopefully she doesn’t like Fluttershy! Oh, I wouldn’t know what to do if I ever saw Rainbow Dash with one of my closest friends. Though, Applejack didn’t allow her mind to fool her without even hearing what the secret could possibly be. Applejack, being devious with knowledge of how Fluttershy works, made a sly decision to trick her. “It’s alright, Fluttershy. You don’t have to tell me the secret or anything. I think I’ll just be going now and… fantasize about Rainbow Dash.” Applejack flinched on the inside. “You know, I’ll just go home and ponder if I should ever be with her. Thanks for the help, Fluttershy.” As Applejack began stepping out of the cottage, Fluttershy called out her name, forcing AJ to turn around. “You don’t want to do that, Applejack. Rainbow Dash got a letter from the Wonderbolt Academy telling her that she will get her results about a final test. If she passes this test, she will become a Wonderbolt. If that happens, then…” “We won’t be seeing her much anymore,” Applejack said, frowning. “Oh, I should’ve just kept my mouth shut. I’m sorry, Applejack.” “No, you needed to tell me this, Fluttershy. I would’ve gone off and done something stupid if you didn’t stop me.” Applejack frowned some more, upset by the fact that all of her crushes seem to be such failures (even though she’s had only a few crushes in her life). “Do you know when she is supposed to find out?” Fluttershy lowered her head. “Tonight. She flies up to the academy in a few hours.” She didn’t even have to raise her head to know how upset Applejack was. “I’m sorry, Applejack. If it makes you feel better, I think you two would be really great together.” “Thanks, Fluttershy, but it doesn’t like it’s going to matter anymore. I shouldn’t keep you from your animals or anything, so I’ll just be going.” Fluttershy didn’t say anything more than another apology before Applejack. She felt bad about her friend’s misfortune, more than she usually does. Applejack tried to keep her head up high. She tried to convince herself that she was being silly and that her life isn’t all that bad without Rainbow Dash to support it. It was working a little, but she knew (like before) that she could only conceal these feelings for so long. With Applejack and Rainbow Dash being such good friends, there was no way that she could avoid her forever. Not even at that moment. Applejack looked up to the sky to notice that Rainbow Dash was flying overhead. She’s probably going over to Fluttershy’s house to talk about the Wonderbolts or something. Or… to begin her good-byes. Applejack ran out of Rainbow Dash’s peripheral vision. She didn’t want RD to know that she was at Fluttershy’s house just a moment ago. After evading Rainbow Dash’s gaze, Applejack slowly returned to Ponyville. Upon arriving in the town, the town center didn’t seem quite as crowded as it was only an hour before. Applejack, not wanting to return to the farm in her mental state, decided to head to Twilight’s treehouse library. She knew that being with friends would probably help ease her mind. Applejack knocked on the door. Spike opened it a few moments later and smiled at her. “Hi, Applejack. Are you looking for Twilight?” “Hi, Spike,” Applejack said, talking as if nothing had happened a moment before. “Yes, is it alright if I come in?” “Of course.” Spike stepped to the side and allowed AJ to enter. Applejack looked around and noticed Twilight getting up from reading a book. “Hi, Twilight. I hope I’m not disturbing you” “Not at all, Applejack. Is there something you want to talk to me about?” “Yeah. It’s about Rainbow Dash. Did you know that she’s going to be told that she’s going to be a Wonderbolt tonight?” Twilight sighed. “Yes. Pinkie, Rarity, and Fluttershy know about it, too.” Applejack was shocked that she was the only one that Rainbow Dash didn’t tell about being a Wonderbolt. “Why would she tell you guys about it and not me? Did I say something mean to her or something?” “I doubt it, Applejack. But the truth is, Rainbow wouldn’t tell us why we were supposed to keep it a secret. We’re as much in the dark about it as you are.” “That just makes no sense to me. I thought we were best friends, and I guess she just can’t even tell me that she’s going to be leaving.” “Maybe it’s because you’re best friends that she can’t tell you.” “Come again?” Twilight sighed. “Maybe she is too afraid to tell her best friend that she is going to be leaving. Rainbow Dash might not show it on the outside, but on the inside, she can be a bit of a coward about these things. She is, dare I say… sentimental sometimes.” Applejack frowned. “So what do you suppose I do?” “Well… you can either confront her about it, or you can wait until tonight when we figure out the results on her test. I imagine the result will be the same in both situations.” “With her becoming a Wonderbolt and having absolutely no time to spend with us?” “I wish it wouldn’t come down to that, but I think that’s how it’s going to go.” Applejack couldn’t help but notice Twilight’s bluntness, but she knew that she was right. Becoming a Wonderbolt is Rainbow Dash’s dream, and she’s probably not going to be around a whole lot. She wanted to ask some more questions, but she already had all the answers that she needed. Also, she didn’t want Twilight to see the tears that were beginning to fall from her eyes. Yes. Tears. Applejack shielded her face and said with a somewhat trembling voice. “Thanks for letting me know, Twilight. You’re a good friend.” Applejack then ran out of the library before Twilight could confront her about why she was crying. Now… she felt that there was nopony at that moment to comfort her. She went back to Sweet Apple Acres, avoiding everyone’s gaze in her emotional state. She didn’t go into her home, because then she would have to explain to her family why she had been crying. Applejack knew that they only wanted to help, but she didn’t really want anypony’s pity, nor did she want to talk with anypony. She went out to the apple farm, the one place where she knew that she was comfortable. She went over to the tree that both she and Rainbow Dash had yanked out of the ground the day before. It was still toppled over and lying useless on the ground. It was one of her chores to get rid of it, but she never got around to it. Applejack got comfortable next to the trunk of the tree and lied down. That trunk could perhaps serve to be the last official memory of Rainbow Dash, her brief crush and long-time friend. Just thinking about it made her cry even more. As if to add more pain to her sorrow, clouds began arriving to overcast Ponyville. She had forgotten that there was a rainy day schedule for the late afternoon, but at that point, she didn’t care too much. She just allowed one drop after another fall on her before it began raining fairly hard. She was used to being out in the rain, so this wasn’t a big deal to her. Though, she knew that she was getting drenched and that she would need to get out of the rain before she caught a cold. She still didn’t return to the home, but she did end up finding shelter underneath a big tree that was covering the rain very well. It was actually quite comfortable under the tree, with the light cool blowing in her mane. Applejack lied down again and began to fall asleep, her tears being drowned out by the surrounding rain. If anything, Applejack just wanted that day to be over. So her suffering could end.
Preparing for DepartureRainbow Dash’s Future Chapter 4 – Preparing for Departure Rainbow Dash felt a little tense about her entire situation. She was leaving for the Wonderbolt Academy in a couple of hours, and she was actually worried that they might not accept her to be a Wonderbolt. Although she believed in herself as the best flier in Ponyville, the position is highly-esteemed and is difficult to receive. To clear her mind before that big moment, she ditched her friends up at that academy to be with her closest friends. She flew down to Ponyville and went to Fluttershy's cottage. She knew that she could confide in her to be a good friend. If she had looked down upon her arrival at the home, she would've noticed a crying Applejack fleeing to Sweet Apple Acres. Though, she was too lost in her own thoughts to really be paying attention to what was below her. Just what was ahead of her. Rainbow Dash landed herself and knocked on Fluttershy’s door. A few moments later, the door opened and Fluttershy opened the door, expecting Applejack. When she saw Rainbow Dash, she was a little surprised. “Oh, Rainbow Dash. Don’t you have to leave for the Wonderbolt Academy soon?” Rainbow tried to keep a slick smile to avoid spreading her discomfort to somepony else. Though, it didn't last long when a frown soon came over her. “I’m actually a little nervous about the whole thing, Fluttershy. I just wanted to be around friends before I go.” “Oh, well you just missed Applejack.” “Was she here? I still can’t find the guts to tell her that I’m leaving for the Wonderbolts tonight.” Fluttershy sighed, knowing that she wasn't allowed to tell Rainbow Dash about Applejack’s feelings for her. “Why can't you tell her,” Fluttershy asked curiously. “Wouldn't it be better if you told all of your friends so that we can help you through this?” “It’s because Applejack is my best friend. We're both really big competitors. We're both really good at what we do. We're both awesome. I just don't have the guts right now to tell her.” “Well you’re going to have to tell her eventually. She’ll be upset if you leave without saying good-bye, and I don't want Applejack to be upset.” Fluttershy knew that Applejack already knew everything already, but she wanted Rainbow Dash to tell her face-to-face. That’s the way that it should be. “I know, I know. I’ll tell her before I leave. I just don't know what to say. If I say something wrong like I do with everypony else, then we may stay friends after this.” “Just tell her the truth, Rainbow Dash. You’re a good friend, and she’ll love you no matter the choice you make.” Rainbow Dash lowered her head in shame. “Yeah, you’re right. You may be a little quiet, Fluttershy, but you’re really smart about this kind of stuff.” Fluttershy smiled sheepishly. “I just like helping my friends.” She continued to smile at Rainbow Dash with a long, drawn-out pause. “Is there anything else that you need Rainbow Dash? You can stay for dinner if you would like to.” “No thanks, Fluttershy. I have some important things that I need to get done. Besides, you already helped me a lot, so you can't possibly help me much more than you have already. Thanks.” “You're welcome. Good luck on becoming a Wonderbolt. I know that you will get it.” Rainbow Dash nodded and smiled. She left the cottage with a little more courage than she did coming in. Though, she was still a little nervous about telling her best friend about her possible departure. Especially after the fun days she’s had, Rainbow Dash has developed quite an attachment to the orange farm mare. Though, it seems that the attachment will soon come to an end. At least, that’s what she thought was going to happen. She still wasn't even entirely sure if she would even get accepted. Most ponies don't. Though, Rainbow Dash removed that idea from her mind, because despite her feelings for her friends, she still really wanted to be a Wonderbolt. Those were her main priorities and she planned on sticking with them. Rainbow Dash took off from the ground, heading for Sweet Apple Acres. Despite everything that she feared, she knew that she had to make everything right with her best friend. Celestia as her witness and guide, she will be successful. No matter what happens. A couple of minutes later, Rainbow Dash landed herself in front of the Apples’ farm house. Before she knocked, she felt a drop of water drop into her fur. Rainbow looked up to see that it was beginning to rain. She had forgotten about the scheduled rain since she requested a day-off. When she becomes a Wonderbolt, she won't be doing much weather control. She knew she would miss it. Rainbow Dash knocked on the door and it opened a few moments later, showing Applebloom on the other side. "Oh, hi Applebloom. Is Applejack home?” The young filly shook her head. “She said she would be home by now, but I haven't seen her.” Rainbow Dash sighed. “Alright, I'll come back later.” Before Rainbow Dash could fly away, Applebloom managed to stop her. “Did you fix your problems with Applejack,” she asked curiously. “What are you talking about? What problems?” “She was acting real weird this morning, and she said that you two have been having problems or somethin’. I don't really want to get involved, but she's my big sister.” “I see." Rainbow Dash tried to avoid getting into a conflict with a filly that may not understand her and Applejack's situation. "No, we're fine. Don't worry about it.” Applebloom nodded her head and said, “Okay. Well, have a good night.” Rainbow Dash nodded and Applebloom closed the door. Instead of flying off, Rainbow Dash decided to walk into the large and extensive apple farm. She just wanted to think. Things are getting weird, Rainbow Dash thought. Applejack is not home and she apparently is having problems with me even though she just had lunch with me and seemed perfectly fine. Well... other than the personal thing that she didn't want to talk about. This is just too confusing. Rainbow Dash continued to walk around the farm until she saw a familiar sight. She walked over to the tree that she and Applejack knocked over. She was feeling fine then, too, Rainbow Dash thought curiously. She turned around to come back to the farmhouse to see if she could catch Applejack somehow. Though, she stopped, because a hint of orange stood out to her in the rain. She looked over at one of the bigger trees, and saw a familiar hat next to a familiar orange mare. Rainbow Dash was a little shocked and wondered why Applejack was sitting out in the rain all by herself. Upon a second look, she noticed that Applejack had her eyes closed. Is she sleeping, Rainbow asked herself. Rainbow Dash went over to the sleeping farm mare and put a hoof on her shoulder. She began to gently shake Applejack and said, “Hey, wake up.” Without too much effort, Applejack slowly opened her eyes. When they focused on the pony that was shaking her, she immediately went into a fully awake state and stared at Rainbow Dash. “Oh no, how long was I asleep for? Did you already leave for the Academy? Oh, I should have been there to see you off, but I fell asleep. Are you a Wonderbolt?” Rainbow Dash raised a hoof in front of Applejack’s mouth in order to calm her down. “Applejack, it’s okay. I don't leave for a bit.” Applejack slowly calmed herself. “Oh. Sorry for the little freak-out. I don’t normally sleep on an occasion like this.” “How did you even know about the whole Wonderbolts thing? I don’t remember telling you anything about it.” “Oh… uh,” Applejack mumbled hesitantly. She didn’t want to rat Fluttershy out or anything, but she felt that she might as well be honest with Rainbow Dash. “I was over at Fluttershy’s cottage earlier today, and she told me about your trip.” She was going to apologize for being nosy about Rainbow Dash’s business, but then she got a little upset by a little detail. “Though, I shouldn’t have had to hear it from her. Why couldn’t you tell me? Apparently everypony else knows.” Rainbow Dash took a hesitant step back, brushing her wet out of her eyes. “Uh… well.” Rainbow Dash bowed her head in shame. “I guess I was just a little afraid.” Applejack softened up and acknowledged Rainbow Dash’s shame. “Afraid of what?” “Well, I didn’t want to ruin our friendship or anything with me leaving. If I just went up to you and told you that I may become a Wonderbolt, then I would probably say something stupid. I would be leaving Ponyville on the wrong hoof with you. I don’t want that. You’re my best friend and I want to be on good terms with you forever.” Applejack patted Rainbow Dash on the shoulder. “I want all of that, too. But we’re best friends. You should be able to tell me anything, no matter how stupid you make of it. I’ll still accept your decisions no matter what.” Rainbow Dash pouted and glared at Applejack, getting an awkward glance in return. “Then why don’t you tell me what’s going on, Applejack?” “I don’t know what you’r—“ “You’ve been acting so strange, lately. On random occasions, you just decided to get depressed around me, and Applebloom even told me that you have so-called “problems” with me. Applejack… I don’t know what you’re being so silent about, but like you said, you can tell me anything. I’d rather leave here with some questions answered, but that’s up to you.” Applejack tried to devise a plan to make her way around the awkward situation, but she knew that at this point, she would have to be honest with Rainbow Dash. The remainder of their friendship depended on it. “Alright, you asked for it. I hope we can still be friends after I tell you this.” That statement alone made Rainbow Dash worried. What could Applejack mean by ‘I hope we can still be friends,’ Rainbow Dash thought. “We’ve been friends for so long, but lately… I’ve been thinking of you more than a friend. I know this may sound strange, Rainbow Dash, but I actually…” Applejack bowed her head in embarrassment. “kind of like you. A lot.” Rainbow Dash was shocked, but she wasn’t shocked too much. It was almost as if she expected this to happen. “I don’t know what to say to that.” “I’m not asking you to say anything right now. I want you to do what your heart desires, and I know your heart desires being a Wonderbolt. It’s what you’ve always wanted.” Applejack began to tear up, but to her surprise, Rainbow Dash was doing the same. “Oh, sugarcube. Why are you crying?” “Because this is all so complicated for me right now. You’re my best friend. How am I supposed to go become a Wonderbolt when I know my best friend ever has feelings for me? I don’t even know why you like me. I’m such a show-off around you.” “I couldn’t even begin to tell you why I feel this way. I just do.” Rainbow Dash wiped a tear from her own cheek and replied, “Alright. Well… time is running out for me. I have to go to the Wonderbolt Academy now to see if I become a Wonderbolt. If I do, I will be back later tonight to pack up my stuff and… say my good-byes.” Despite everything that had just happened in only a few moments, Applejack managed to say, “Good luck. You’re the fastest flyer in Equestria. They would be mighty stupid if they said no to you.” Without a response or even a nod, Rainbow Dash flew off into the rain, leaving the awkward scenario behind her. She flew slowly, giving her a chance to get her mind cleared before her possible promotion. Though, she was going to need more than just a slow flight to get her mind cleared of every last emotion that she was feeling at that moment.
A World of MeaningRainbow Dash’s Future Chapter 5 – A World of Meaning "Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don't resist them - that only creates sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like." Albert Einstein Applejack was introduced into a world of meaning when she was born. She has been through a lot of twists and turns and her life has went through some "natural and spontaneous changes." She went to Manehattan in search of a true life with her Aunt and Uncle Orange, only to find herself returning back to where she started. She has dealt with being an outcast in the grand city of Canterlot for being a simpleton with her apple treats. She has faced off against competition and nearly failed to the hands of the Flim Flam Brothers. She has been through all of these twist and turns and have managed to overcome them. Though, Rainbow Dash's farewell seems to be Applejack's one and only spontaneous change that she cannot handle. She wants to resist it, despite the sorrow that may come of it. Though, what would be the alternative? Rainbow Dash's Sonic Rainboom is the reason why Applejack found her place in Ponyville on Sweet Apple Acres. Rainbow Dash felt a similar rejection from the Wonderbolts, the ponies that represent her passion, at the Grand Galloping Gala. Rainbow Dash assisted in the competitive war of who can make the most apple cider, a moment where Applejack was most vulnerable. This was despite the fact that Rainbow Dash was upset with her for not supplying her with apple cider earlier that day. "You don't know what you have until it's gone." John Petryoing The point is, Rainbow Dash was always there for Applejack, and Applejack sadly chose to see it when Rainbow Dash was leaving. Even though she didn't know that Rainbow Dash was leaving at the time, she still wished that had noticed it earlier. Now it's too late. When Rainbow Dash flew off to the distance, Applejack was left in the rain. Despite all of the emotions that she could possibly feel at that moment, she decided to go with the emotion that hurt the most: acceptance. She accepted that Rainbow Dash may never return her feelings. She "let reality be reality" and she seemed perfectly fine with it. For now. She stayed under the large tree for another few moments until she finally began feeling shivers all around her body. She ran off into the rain and went back into the house. She silently went up to her room so that she wouldn't disturb anypony (and so nopony would disturb her). She slowly closed her door and place her hat on a nightstand. Applejack began to lay down in her bed, but she didn't close her eyes. She wasn't tired, and there was no way at this point that she would be able to fall asleep. There were too many things roaming around in her mind, and she felt that she never would be able to get some sleep without resolving every single thought. Though, every thought had the same solution: accepting all of the events that had just happened and letting them occur naturally. Such a simple solution, though a painful one. She slowly lowered her head into her pillow and sleep overtook her. It was perhaps one of the best feelings to sleep, especially following the events earlier that day. The next morning, Applejack actually woke up pretty peacefully. The sun was just barely bringing itself above the horizon, bringing a pleasant sunrise and introducing Ponyville into a new day. A new start. Applejack got out of bed, put her hat on her head, and walked out of the room. As she walked downstairs to head to the kitchen, she heard some general chitter-chatter and even a bit of laughter. Most of the Apples tend to wake up early, even if they didn't need to do anything that day. It was a form of habit that they developed. Applejack assumed that Applebloom and Big Macintosh were talking over some breakfast. Though, when she made it down to the kitchen, she was shocked to see how wrong she was. Applejack almost thought she was dreaming when she saw Rainbow Dash in her kitchen, telling an amusing story to Applebloom and Big Macintosh. Despite all of the sadness that had occurred only hours before, here was Rainbow Dash, seemingly happy to be in her crush's home. "Rainbow Dash," Applejack said in a somewhat exasperated tone. In mid-sentence, Rainbow Dash stopped and looked up at the confused farm mare. Surprisingly, Rainbow Dash smiled with her signature slick smile. She looked back down to her previous audience and said, "Sorry to leave you like this guys, but I actually need to talk to Applejack." "Oh, I don't want to interrupt your story. I can just wait outside." "Yeah... this is actually pretty important, Applejack, and you're probably going to want to hear it." Although, Rainbow Dash's tone was a little more sullen, she still managed to keep a smile on her. This worried Applejack, because such a smile could've meant anything. "Uh... alright. Would you like to go up to my room or somethin'?" "Actually... can we go out to the orchard?" Applejack nodded. "That sounds good." Applejack went ahead of Rainbow Dash and opened the door for the both of them. When Rainbow Dash stepped out, Applejack closed the door behind them and began going back into the orchard. It was almost too emotional for Applejack to be going back out there, because last night, she was in misery. Now, everything seems uncomfortably calm. Applejack went a few more steps and realized that she had had enough with the brief silence and agony. "Uh, Rainbow Dash?" "Yes, Applejack." "Excuse me for being a bit impatient, but what is it that you wanted to tell me? I'm getting a bit anxious." "Well, if we're being honest, I'm a bit anxious myself. I'm almost... afraid to tell you." "Remember our conversation last night? You can tell me anything." Rainbow Dash turned away from Applejack and said, "Yeah, I remember the conversation. But I think it was last night's conversation that is making me feel so... weird. I'm sure... you feel the same way. Especially how I ditched you and everything." Applejack nodded. "Yeah, yesterday was weird, but I guess... that's all behind us. You can still tell me anything. I certainly did last night." "Alright, I guess that's only fair." Rainbow Dash a folded piece of paper revealed that she had been holding while going out to the orchard. She handed it to Applejack. "What is this, Rainbow Dash?" Rainbow Dash frowned. "Just read it." Applejack began to worry with the frown on Rainbow Dash's face. She tentatively opened up the folded piece of paper and began to read its contents to herself. Dear Ms. Rainbow Dash, We are proud to inform you that you have passed your training and show promising qualities to become a Wonderbolt. However, all of the spots on the Wonderbolt team have been filled and we regretfully tell you that you have not qualified... ... ... ... She didn't even bother to read on, because she knew what the meaning of this letter. Despite Rainbow Dash's immense flying capabilities, there were still people that are better than her. She wanted to bring all of her thoughts to a close, though she knew that there was something that was more important. Being there for Rainbow Dash. "Rainbow Dash... I'm sorry. I don't even know what to say other than that." Before, Applejack could break out into more sorrys and hugs, Rainbow Dash raised a hoof up to her mouth. "You know, don't be sorry. I'm actually alright. Of course, I was upset for a little bit after getting this letter, but then it gave me something to think about. It allowed me to think about what I would be leaving behind if I decided to join the Wonderbolts." "I would leave behind a place that I could call home for so long. I have learned to get to know and get along with these ponies, instead of getting bullied by them like I was in Cloudsdale. I would leave behind a life where everypony knows who I am and what I can be capable of. If I were up there with the Wonderbolts, everypony would have high expectations of me, and even if I were able to meet a lot of those expectations, I would not meet all of them." "You know what the worst thing there is for me to leave behind? My best friends. Especially you Applejack." Applejack blushed, enjoying the recognition. "Like... I'm the Element of Loyalty along with 5 of the most awesome Elements of Harmony." Applejack smiled, trying really hard to hold back a tear that was threatening to flow out of her left eye. "So... does that mean you're happy that you're not going to be a Wonderbolt?" "Well... I would like to be a Wonderbolt and everything, because that's my dream. But I would much rather stay here in Ponyville where everything is awesome." "That's great, sugarcube. I was afraid that you were going to be really upset, and I can't stand it when you're upset." Applejack caught Rainbow Dash staring and smiling at her. Applejack blushed. "You know... because I can't stand it when any of my friends are upset." Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes. "Yeah right, Applejack. I can see right through that blush of your's." Applejack tried to keep a shy smile. She looked down when she said, "Well... the last time I showed... certain feelings, I never really got a response from you when you flew off to the Academy." Rainbow Dash frowned along with Applejack. "Yeah... I actually thought about that a lot. Probably even more than I thought about being rejected from the Wonderbolt team. To tell you the truth, I was actually tried really hard to keep myself from crying when I stepped into Spitfire's office. She probably would have taken away my acceptance if I started crying... if she, you know, gave me an acceptance." "Wow... that was my fault," Applejack said sullenly. "Don't be sorry, Applejack. There is a point to all of this. I realized that if I wasn't going to be a Wonderbolt or anything, then it may be worth it to make something happen in my life. So..." Rainbow Dash blushed cutely. "I hope you didn't really... change your mind about me yesterday, because I think I changed my mind about you." "No, Rainbow Dash. I still have the exact same feelings for you. You've always been there for me whenever things got a little... hard. You've felt what I've felt. I have given you so many reasons for you to be angry with me, but you always went past those things and continued to smile. I love your good, cheerful side and your bad, arrogant side equally. I lo..." Applejack tried to refrain from using the 'L' word in this sense. "I like you a lot, sugarcube." Rainbow Dash blushed wildly, because he had not realized that he would ever make it to this point. "I don't even know what to say, actually." "Let me help you with that, partner." Applejack leaned her head in. When Rainbow Dash caught the 'memo', she began to lean her head forward as well. They closed their eyes in sync with each other. A moment later, their lips connected, an embrace representing the beginning of their love and relationship. They continued to kiss for another few moments until Applejack came up for a bit of air. She was smiling and a faint blush filled her cheeks. She looked around the farm and noticed that there were some passersby that were staring. Applebloom was included in the crowd. She was still fascinated about love and matchmaking after she tried to pair up Big Macintosh with Cheerilee, and seeing Rainbow Dash and Applejack kiss made her smile. She ran off to get the rest of the Cutie Mark Crusaders to tell them the exciting news. "Oh, this is embarrassing," Applejack said. "Don't worry about it, Applejack. They were going to find out about it anyways. This town is impossible with secrets." "Heh, I guess you're right." "Maybe we can... put on a show for them, to show that we weren't kidding." Applejack giggled a little more than she expected to. "Yeah, I think I'd be okay with that." Applejack planted another kiss on Rainbow Dash's lips. It was perhaps the most amazing moment that the two have ever experienced and will ever experience. Though, they will have more experiences to come in their relationship that will make them even happier. When they separated, they looked back to Applejack's home to notice that Granny Smith, Big Macintosh, and the entire CMC were looking at them and smiling. Scootaloo for some reason though didn't seem quite as happy. Weird. As embarrassed as Applejack, she still managed to smile. She knew that that's what Rainbow Dash would've wanted. She was proud of her decision, because she wanted to be with Rainbow Dash for the rest of her life. She's not even afraid to think that she will be with her for the rest of her life. It seemed set of stone. That made her smile. Applejack and Rainbow Dash. The new couple of Ponyville.
EpilogueRainbow Dash’s Future Epilogue It didn't take long for the remainder of the Mane 6 to find out about Applejack's and Rainbow Dash's new relationship. Rainbow Dash went to visit everypony with Applejack, and she let them know that she didn't end up in the Wonderbolts. Although everypony was sad for her at first, Rainbow Dash let everypony know about their relationship. Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie showed a great deal of excitement for the two mares. Pinkie constantly insisted that she throw a pony for the two of them, but she finally left them alone after Applejack turned her down for the 20th time. She thought that a party would be too much just for two ponies getting into a relationship, though she did remember that Pinkie Pie throws a party for just about every reason. Fluttershy was happy that Applejack actually grew the courage to show her feelings for Rainbow Dash, though she was still upset for Rainbow Dash since she didn't become a Wonderbolt. Rainbow Dash told her not to worry about it. Twilight wasn't actually too surprised that the two ended up together. Although she didn't see the signs like some others have (mainly attributing to her obliviousness), she still thought that the two made a great couple. Rarity felt a similar happiness towards the new couple. After the entire Mane 6 found out about the relationship, the entire town inadvertently found about it as well. Since all of them knew Rainbow Dash and Applejack very well and hold them in high regards for many different reasons, they were all just as excited for Ponyville's newest couple. It was a welcoming that the two could only hope for. A couple of days later, the six friends were having lunch at the Ponyville Cafe. They were joking and laughing and having a good time. It was almost as if nothing changed for the pack of friends, except for the obvious change with Applejack and Rainbow Dash. Lunch was nearing its end and Rarity and Fluttershy have already excused themselves to go get a few things done back at home. Rainbow Dash waved to the two mares as they left and said, "I should probably go, too. I have some stuff that I still have at the Wonderbolt Academy. I would also like to say goodbye to some of friends there, also." Applejack smiled. "Alright, sugarcube. Are you still coming to Sweet Apple Acres for dinner?" Rainbow Dash kissed Applejack briefly on the lips. "Of course. I'll be back in plenty of time for that." Applejack blushed. Twilight smiled at the lovely gesture. "Hey Rainbow Dash. Is it alright if I go with you to the Academy? I have a letter from Princess Celestia to give to Spitfire." "I can just give it to her, Twilight." "I should probably give it to her personally. It's royal stuff, and Princess Celestia entrusted me with it." "Alright. Just don't slow me down too much." "Great," Twilight exclaimed with a smile. "I already reserved a balloon for myself." "Alright. I'll meet you in the town center in about five minutes then." Five minutes later, Twilight took off from the ground and began to follow Rainbow Dash. The Wonderbolt Academy wasn't too far from Ponyville, so it was only a ten minute balloon ride to get there. Twilight landed the balloon and she and Rainbow Dash parted ways. Twilight headed into the main offices and found a door with a gold plaque on it that had the name 'Spitfire' etched into it. Twilight gently knocked on the door and heard someone say "Come in" in from the other side. Twilight opened the door and shut it behind herself. "Hi, my name is Twilight Sparkle and I'm Princess Celestia's student and protégée." Spitfire looked up from what she was doing and smiled. She got up from her chair and raised a hoof to Twilight, who delightfully shook it. "I recognize you from the Gala among a lot of other things. It's nice to meet the princess' student." "It's nothing, Spitfire. The princess has asked me to give you a letter concerning some event for the Wonderbolts." Twilight gave Spitfire the letter. Spitfire took it and gently put it on the desk. Twilight eyed the letter. "Aren't you going to read it?" "I can read it later. I already basically know what it's about, anyways. There is an important matter that I would actually like to discuss with you." "What would that be," Twilight inquired. "You're a good friend of Rainbow Dash's. Would you know why she would just quit when I was just about to give her acceptance into the Wonderbolts?" "What do you mean quit? Rainbow Dash told me that she was rejected." "I don't know what in the hay you're talking about. She walked into my office to get the results of her test and told me that she was quitting." "But she had a letter to prove it, and it had too many official words for Rainbow Dash to have been able to write on her own." Spitfire flatly looked at Twilight and thought about the letter. "Hang on a moment." Spitfire opened a drawer in her desk and took a piece of paper from her desk and held it up to Twilight. "Is this the letter that she showed you?" Twilight read the first sentence and nodded her head. "Yeah, that's the one." "I was filling them out when Rainbow Dash came in. She must've snatched one when I wasn't looking. That's not like her, though. Why would she be this dedicated to joining us since she was a filly and just quit like that?" Twilight thought about it for a second, though she didn't have to think too hard. The minute that Rainbow Dash told all of the ponies that she was "rejected" from the Wonderbolts, she was in a relationship with Applejack. That's the only thing that made any logical sense. "I wouldn't know. I should go talk some sense into her." Twilight's words were dry, because she didn't want to interfere with such a happy relationship. "Don't even bother. If she's going to quit on us, then I don't want her on my team." "So does that mean she can never become a Wonderbolt." "Not while I'm around, she's not." Spitfire sat back down at her desk and gave Twilight a semi-serious look. "Thank you for the letter, Twilight Sparkle. Is there anything else that you're here for, or are we done?" Twilight didn't hesitate when saying, "We're done." Twilight let herself out of the office and headed back to the balloon. She waited another few moments for Rainbow Dash to return with her stuff. "Are we set to go?" Twilight nodded, still kind of shocked of what she just learned moments ago. "Yeah, let's go." Rainbow Dash stepped onto the balloon and they took off for Ponyville. "I'm going to miss those guys. They're the only ponies that can even relatively keep up with me." "Yeah," Twilight said nearly inaudibly. "Rainbow Dash, do you like Applejack?" Rainbow Dash gave Twilight a strange look. "Where the heck did that come from? Of course I like Applejack. I probably would've stayed much longer if I didn't have Applejack waiting for me at home." "Do you like her more than, say, the Wonderbolts?" Rainbow Dash surprisingly didn't hesitate too much when she said, "Yes, I like her more than the Wonderbolts." Twilight couldn't help but smile. It was such a nice feeling to see that Rainbow Dash was actually happy, even though she gave up on the one thing that she loved for several years. "That's good. I'm happy for the two of you." "Thanks, Twilight." The balloon slowly went into the edges of Ponyville. As they landed, Applejack was there waiting for Rainbow Dash. She ran over into Applejack's hooves and they shared another kiss. Love can be one of life's many trade-offs. You can't have it without giving something up. Though, once you have it, it's worth more than anything in the world. Friendship is magic. Love is magic. This is Applejack's and Rainbow Dash's new and official future Author's Note I hope you all enjoyed my first MLP fanfiction. Please comment on anything good (or bad) that you've noticed. I want to write many more of these and I want each one to be better than the last. Otherwise, happy reading.
