No Reservations

Chapters

Act I
Act II - Part 1
Act II - Part 2

Act I

Rainbow Dash stared through the window at the featureless landscape that rolled past. While there was the occasional mesa, scrub brush, or cactus patch, by and large the view had become one boring brown, flat, totally not awesome prairie. With a slight sigh, Rainbow Dash turned away to flip open her copy of Daring Do and the Pit of Anguish for the fifth time in an hour. Rainbow had finished the book not long into the train ride, but she kept re-reading the end chapter to pass the time. The ending made her wonder as well if A.K. Yearling might be losing her touch just a little.

"You ain't finished that yet?" Applejack asked from the seat across from Rainbow Dash, jarring Rainbow out of her thoughts.

"Oh, heh, yeah I did a while ago, I just was re-reading the last part where Daring was able to collapse the tunnel to the underground laboratory by using a hammer to set up a resonance in the crystals. That sounds more like something Twilight would write," Rainbow Dash replied, closing the book once again and setting it down by her backpack.

Applejack chuckled. "I reckon so. I bet Twilight's too busy with summer school though to do anythin' really creative."

Rainbow Dash smirked in agreement. "Three classes a week all summer. She's such an egghead." Rainbow Dash pulled a bottle of water out of her pack and took a large sip, then wiped her lips. "I'm glad Twilight decided not to graduate early. It would have sucked if she was gone again after only one semester."

Applejack stretched a bit in her seat and nodded. "Eeyup, now that she's with us at CHS, it really does feel like something we were missin' is back together again."

Rainbow Dash smiled in reply. The previous school year certainly had been eventful, for lack of any better term. Good things had come from it though, especially their close bonds of friendship with Twilight and Sunset Shimmer. Already, some of the other students at Canterlot High were calling them the "Seven Wonderscolts", a play on words of the Seven Wonders of the World. At least that was what Rainbow guessed.

Rainbow Dash gazed back out the window. "How much longer until we get to Appleloosa?" she asked, fidgeting a bit.

Applejack reached into her pack to pull out her phone and glanced at the time. "The train's s'posed to arrive at 3-ish, so about another two hours." Applejack slid the phone back in her pack and took out a pair of apples. "Hungry?" she asked.

Rainbow Dash looked back and nodded and Applejack tossed over one of the apples, which Rainbow caught one-handed. "Thanks, AJ," Rainbow said.

"My pleasure, sugarcube," Applejack smiled in return. She bit into the juicy Sweet Apple Acres fruit, slowly chewing and savoring the flavor. "Hard to believe it's gonna be our senior year already, only one more year of school an' then who knows what," Applejack mused after swallowing.

"Yeah, I really haven't tried to think about it," Rainbow Dash shot back, but the look on her best friend's face told her that Applejack didn't believe her. "OK, I guess I have been thinking about it lately. My folks are already starting to ask me about college and I might be able to score a full scholarship to a good school, but I'm not sure I want to go too far from Canterlot."

Rainbow Dash took another bite of apple before continuing. "Scoots will be a Freshman at Canterlot High the year after we graduate and I'd like to be there for her as much as I can. You remember how not cool it was being a Freshman."

Rainbow fell silent as her thoughts then drifted to her other friend's futures. Fluttershy would begin her undergraduate work, hopefully at the University of Canterlot before selecting where to earn a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine. Rarity would have to choose between maintaining her shop or going to the Parsons School for Design in Manehattan. Twilight would easily get into one of the egghead colleges, such as Harvard or Pranceton. Pinkie Pie was a wild card, but Rainbow Dash suspected she wouldn't go far from Canterlot either. As for Applejack, well...she was certain to remain on the farm with Big Mac, who had just graduated that spring.

Sunset Shimmer was undecided and Rainbow Dash couldn't blame her for her uncertainty. Rainbow somewhat hoped that Sunset might get an athletic scholarship as well, perhaps even to the same university as herself. It would be totally awesome if they could be roommates in college, Rainbow Dash decided.

Applejack cocked her head curiously at Rainbow as the silence lingered. "Whatcha thinkin' about so hard over there?" she inquired.

"Oh, just thinking about after high school, where the girls will end up. I was just wondering if Sunset's going to try and get a scholarship somewhere," Rainbow Dash answered.

"Mmhmm, I bet you are," Applejack quipped, her mouth quirking in a playful grin.

"And what's that supposed to mean?" Rainbow Dash retorted.

"Oh, nothin'," Applejack answered as casually as she could. "Just that y'all have gotten so close that some folks have been wonderin' if y'all might have somethin' more goin' on."

Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes at Applejack. "Pssh, as if! You know I don't bat for the other team!"

Applejack gave a little laugh. "Oh I know, believe me. But it's fun jerkin' your chain a bit."

Rainbow Dash waved a hand dismissively at Applejack in return. In truth, the Apple of Rainbow's eye was in the next compartment over. The two friends fell quiet as they finished their snack. Rainbow Dash lined up her shot, then tossed the apple core into the wastebasket and exclaimed, "She shoots, she scores! The awesome point-guard beats the buzzer to bury the game-winning shot!"

Applejack just shook her head. "Let's jus' hope you're as good in the saddle."

Rainbow Dash put on a cocky grin. "Many will wonder, only one will ever know." Rainbow was rewarded with a groan for her effort.

"Seriously though, it's totally cool that you and Big Mac invited me to go help out with the opening of your cousin's Dude Ranch," Rainbow Dash added. "What was his name again?"

"Braeburn," Applejack replied. "He's a year older'n Big Mac, haven't seen him since I was in middle school an' he came to visit. It was his idea to use the extra land on the farm as a tourist attraction." Applejack's eyes glimmered a little wickedly as she looked over at Rainbow Dash. "He's right good-lookin' too, best as I can remember."

"Oh no, don't you dare," Rainbow Dash protested, shaking her head side to side.

"Oh yeah? You already got your eye on someone back home?" Applejack pried, her expression turning a bit predatory.

Rainbow Dash's composure wilted a little and she felt herself grow a little flush as her thoughts drifted to Big Mac in the compartment next door. "I, ah...well, no, not really..." she stammered.

"Uh huh," Applejack giggled. "You'd think by now you should know you can't go fibbin' to me, Rainbow."

Rainbow Dash gathered herself and put the best nonchalant look she could on her face. "Yeah, whatever. Just don't get any crazy ideas in your head." Thinking of anything she could to change the topic, Rainbow said, "So we're going to be bunking it like the tourists will, huh? You know this means I get the top bunk."

"Now hold on, what if I wanna be on top?" Applejack huffed.

"I bet you do," Rainbow Dash said with a smirk. Seeing Applejack's unwavering expression, Rainbow Dash stepped up to the challenge. "Only one way to settle this then." Rainbow Dash got up and moved over to Applejack's side of the compartment, putting her elbow down on the seat cushion and raising her curled hand.

"Seriously? Arm-wrasslin' on a train?" Applejack asked with a snort.

"Cool by me," Rainbow Dash responded. "Guess this means I win by default. Top bunk's all mine."

"You wait a goldurn minute!" Applejack snapped. She leaned down and put her own elbow to the cushion, reaching up to grab Rainbow's outstretched hand. "On the count of three. One...two...three!"

The struggle was intense but brief. As one fist slammed down on the cushion, the victor pumped her free fist in a sign of triumph.

"Best two out of three?" Rainbow Dash begged, sounding a little deflated.

The train pulled into Appleloosa Station right on schedule and Rainbow Dash could hardly wait to disembark and stretch her legs. Four hours in a single enclosed room, even one that was comfortable, had pushed her limits. As soon as the train came to a stop, Rainbow Dash grabbed her pack and with a quick "See you outside!" to Applejack, lived up to her name and sprinted out onto the platform.

Rainbow Dash wasted no time in taking a quick walk around the platform, looking past the train station into the heart of Appleloosa. Everything about it screamed "small country town" from the old-fashioned water tower to the single-story buildings lining the main street to the large Walmart parking lot visible in the distance.

The sound of bustling people drew Rainbow Dash's attention back. The others had started to disembark and Rainbow Dash went to rejoin her friends. Applejack was scanning the crowd, looking for her cousin.

"Braeburn! Hey, over here!" Applejack called out, taking off her Stetson and waving it. A tall, lean, muscular young man dressed in a denim shirt and slightly worn-out jeans turned his head at the sound and his face lit up in recognition. Braeburn smiled as he walked up to greet them and he scooped Applejack up in a big hug, spinning her around.

"Howdy, cuz! My stars, you done grown up and got all purty!" Braeburn exclaimed. Applejack chuckled as she hugged her cousin back. After a long moment, Braeburn let Applejack go and reached over to grab Big Mac's outstretched hand in a firm shake, before the two farmhands grinned and hugged.

"Been too long, Mac! Sure am glad you could shake loose fer a couple of weeks an' come enjoy the ranch before we open," Braeburn said happily.

"Eeyup, wouldn't have missed it fer the world," Big Mac replied with a smile. "Can't wait to see what all you've done." Braeburn detached himself from Big Mac and turned to look at Rainbow Dash, his smile growing even wider.

Braeburn swept his hat down from his head and looked over at Big Mac, "Well now, who is this lovely lady? Is she a friend of yours, cuz?" Braeburn asked curiously.

Big Mac cleared his throat, looking a little sheepish. Introductions weren't his strong suit. "Braeburn, this is Applejack's best friend Rainbow Dash. She ain't never been to a Dude Ranch before. AJ thought she might enjoy a couple weeks of the country life," Big Mac replied.

Rainbow Dash stepped up and shook Braeburn's hand. "Thanks for letting me come, your place sounds awesome." Wow, that sounds so lame. Is that really the best you could come up with? Rainbow Dash thought to herself.

Braeburn held on to Rainbow Dash's hand for a moment and said, "The pleasure's all mine. May I call you Rainbow? It's a right pretty name for a pretty lady."

Rainbow Dash blinked, not expecting such a compliment. "Ah, thanks and sure, that would be cool." She heard Applejack's muted cough, trying to cover her snicker. Rainbow Dash withdrew her hand and went to stand by Applejack while Braeburn helped Big Mac fetch the luggage from the baggage car.

"Told ya he was cute," Applejack whispered, giving Rainbow Dash a playful nudge.

Rainbow Dash didn't answer, she walked over to the suitcases while keeping her steely gaze on Applejack as her way of saying "Shut up already." As she reached out to grab the handle of her suitcase, she instead felt something softer, warm, but a little rough. She turned and looked to see Big Mac holding her suitcase towards her, a surprised grin on his face at the sight of Rainbow's hand on his. "Here you are, Rainbow," Big Mac offered.

"Thanks, Mac. I've got it," Rainbow Dash muttered, feeling her cheeks flushing a little. Trying to get past how cliché this felt, Rainbow Dash took the handle from Big Mac and pulled it out to extend it before rolling her suitcase off to the side. Applejack came forward to claim her bag and soon the group headed to the parking lot where they loaded their luggage into Braeburn's van and piled in for the drive out to the ranch.

While he drove, Braeburn proudly gave them all a run-down of the facilities.

"We set aside 'bout a hundred acres fer the ranch, the soil's too rocky to expand the orchards," Braeburn explained. "The ranch borders next to the tribal lands, an' we've been negotiatin' to have them allow guests onto their land as part of the whole experience, see their culture an' such. In fact, there's a meetin' in a while with the tribal representative. I'd appreciate it if y'all would be there."

"'Course we will," Big Mac assured Braeburn. Braeburn nodded his thanks and went on to describe the various activities; horseback and hay wagon rides, hoe-downs, campfire cookouts, storytelling, and lasso classes, which perked up Applejack.

Rainbow tuned Braeburn out for the majority of the ride, her thoughts were more focused on Big Mac. He was usually reserved and quiet, but Rainbow could tell that out here among his family and in this element, Mac was much more at ease, allowing his gentle and kind personality to shine. This was the side of him that had drawn Rainbow Dash to Mac and it was the part she wanted to get to know more closely during this trip.

The van rumbled to a stop beside a pair of cabins. "Here we are, welcome to the Appleloosa Dude Ranch!" Braeburn said proudly. "We'll be stayin' in these cabins. Ladies, yers is the one on the left. Mac, you an' I will be bunkin' in the one next over." Braeburn pointed to another small building nearby between the two cabins. "That's the outhouse, it's shared fer both. It's got hot water an' a shower. You can see the shared firepit yonder fer campfire cookin'."

"People actually want to pay good money fer roughin' it like this?" Big Mac asked in surprise.

"Heh, yep, we've already got reservations booked fer the first two months," Braeburn replied. "After y'all get settled in, I'll take us up back to the main ranch-house, that's where the meetin' will be an' it's where we will be holding the larger events."

Rainbow Dash and Applejack unloaded their suitcases and walked into their cabin, leaving the boys to sort out their own arrangements. The interior was definitely rustic with simple furnishings, a fireplace, and two sets of bunk beds.

"Guess that wrasslin' was fer nothin'," Applejack mused, tossing her suitcase on one of the lower bunks.

"Probably for the best, this way I might not hear your snoring so much," Rainbow Dash quipped.

"I do not snore!" Applejack protested.

"Like anyone has told you otherwise?" Rainbow Dash teased. She chuckled as Applejack's face grew red. "Don't pop a vessel, I'll be back, going to check out the facilities," Rainbow Dash excused herself, opening the door and walking over to the outhouse.

Once inside, Rainbow Dash went to one of the sinks and splashed a little water on her face, freshening up. The sound of the door opening surprised her and she looked up to see Big Mac standing in the doorway, an embarrassed expression on his face.

"Oh, Gosh, sorry Rainbow...I didn't realize anyone was in here." Mac apologized.

"No sweat, it's cool. I could have locked the door. I guess we'll just have to get used to sharing for the next couple of weeks," Rainbow Dash assured Big Mac. "It's all yours." Rainbow Dash made her way past Big Mac, who kept enough presence of mind to hold the door open for her.

Back outside, Rainbow Dash paused to look around. She could see the split-log fence in the distance, marking the edge of the property. The sky was vibrant and clear, the sun was shining brightly. Rainbow closed her eyes and took in a deep breath of the crisp, clean air; it was going to be nice to get away from the bustle of the city for a while.

"Sure is pretty out here, isn't it?" Mac's voice rumbled quietly behind Rainbow Dash.

Rainbow opened her eyes, reaching to run her fingers through her multi-colored hair as she turned to look back at Big Mac. "Yeah, I was just enjoying the peace and quiet. I think Braeburn will have a hit on his hands here."

"I hope so, I know he was disappointed when he couldn't expand the farm out all this way," Mac replied, reaching down to pick up a nearby rock and tossing it away casually.

"I guess you'll be running Sweet Apple Acres now that you're out of school?" Rainbow Dash inquired.

"Eeyup, Time to let Granny Smith enjoy her golden years. That's my lot in life, an' I plan to make the best of it, " Big Mac nodded. Something about his tone caught Rainbow's notice.

"But you wish you could do more?" Rainbow Dash asked tentatively.

Big Mac lifted his gaze out over the prairie, starting at nothing in particular. "Naw, I'm proud to live up to the Apple family name, an' make Sweet Apple Acres into one of the best farms 'round Canterlot. I jus' want to make sure I can make it thrive without dependin' on AJ or Apple Bloom. I want them to be able to live their own lives, or go to college, or whatever."

The pair stood quietly for a moment, then Mac's gaze relaxed. "What about you Rainbow? You decided what you're gonna do fer college?" Mac asked.

Rainbow Dash puffed out her cheeks. "Well, my coaches think I could probably land a pretty sweet scholarship and if I did I was thinking maybe Virginia or Florida State. But that would be a big change for me, I've never lived anywhere but Canterlot."

"Eeyup, but you'd have the advantage of bein' near the coast. That sounds like fun, always wanted to spend some time at a beach." Big Mac said thoughtfully.

Visions of Big Mac in swim trunks sprang into Rainbow Dash's mind and she had to force herself to not run her eyes over his muscular frame. "Heh, yeah, that part would be pretty cool," Rainbow said with a chuckle.

"Am I interruptin' anythin'?" Applejack called out. Rainbow Dash turned to see Applejack standing on the porch of their cabin, a little grin on her face.

"Just shooting the breeze," Rainbow replied as casually as she could. Leave it to Applejack to have the worst timing ever.

Braeburn came out from the other cabin, keys in hand. "We should prolly head on up to the ranch-house." Braeburn made a point to open the side door first before turning to Rainbow Dash. "Ladies first!" he said gallantly.

Everyone got into the van and Braeburn made the short drive up to the main ranch-house, a large single-story home with a corral attached to the side. A few horses were tethered on a hitching post nearby, prompting a curious look from Rainbow Dash.

"Normally we won't use cars much, 'cept in emergencies. Folks will be encouraged to ride to and from their cabins." Braeburn explained.

Once inside, Braeburn led them into the main room and excused himself to put on some coffee. Applejack, Rainbow Dash and Big Mac took seats around the living room. The front bell rang, and Braeburn called out from the kitchen, "Got it!" and went to answer the door. In a moment, Braeburn entered the room with a young Indian woman beside him. She appeared to be Mac's age and was dressed in a plaid shirt and jeans, her long black hair pulled back into braids that hung by her shoulders. Her eyes swept over the room as if she was taking inventory and Rainbow Dash couldn't help but notice they lingered a bit on Big Mac.

Braeburn cleared his throat and said, "Mac, Applejack, Rainbow, I'd like to introduce Leotie, or 'Little Strongheart', as her tribe calls her. She's the daughter of the Chief an' she's who I've been workin' with on establishin' cultural visits for the ranch. Miss Strongheart, these are my cousins, Big Macintosh and Applejack an' their friend Rainbow Dash. They've come all the way from Canterlot to see the ranch."

Little Strongheart smiled at everyone. "O-si-yo, I greet you in the way of my people. It is a pleasure to meet each of you." Braeburn led Little Strongheart to a chair beside the couch where Big Mac was seated then excused himself to go fetch the coffee. "I'll help ya with that," Applejack offered, and she vanished into the kitchen with Braeburn.

Little Strongheart looked over to Mac and Rainbow Dash and said, "You have come a long way, I hope the journey was pleasant?"

Rainbow Dash started to speak, but Big Mac answered first. "Eeyup, was a right nice train ride. Been a long time since I was out here in Appleloosa, not since I came out here as a little boy with my Ma and Pa. Have you lived here yer whole life, Miss Strongheart?"

"Yes, I was born on the reservation and please, no need to be so formal. You can call me either Strongheart or Leotie, my name in my language." Little Strongheart replied kindly.

"Leotie's a very pretty name," Big Mac observed with a gentle smile.

"Thank you. May I call you Macintosh?" Little Strongheart asked.

"Please do, or jus' Mac if you'd like." Big Mac answered, his smile widening.

Rainbow Dash watched the exchange with a bit of surprise, she had never seen Big Mac talk so freely around someone he had just met before. Something about the way Mac was looking at Little Strongheart wasn't sitting well with Rainbow Dash, but she couldn't put a finger on it.

Applejack and Braeburn came out from the kitchen with a tray of coffee mugs, from which Rainbow Dash gladly took one of the mugs. As the discussion turned from casual to more business, Rainbow Dash couldn't help but notice how Big Mac's gaze never left Little Strongheart. Suddenly, it clicked for Rainbow Dash. The look on Mac's face was quite a bit like the look Scootaloo had teased Rainbow Dash about at the Big Brothers/Big Sisters car wash last Fall when Rainbow Dash had first realized how attracted she was to Big Mac.

Involuntarily, Rainbow Dash's eyes narrowed a bit as she took stock of her opponent. If Little Strongheart wanted to try and win Big Mac for herself, she was in for some strong competition...and competition was something Rainbow Dash was very, very good at.

"Let the best girl win, namely, me!" Rainbow Dash thought to herself as she finished her coffee.

Act II - Part 1

Rainbow Dash rolled over onto her stomach and tried to pull the covers even further over her head. The bunk bed wasn't the most comfortable and the combination of the unfamiliar mattress and her ever-racing thoughts regarding Big Mac and her "competition" resulted in a poor night's sleep at best.

Just as Rainbow Dash started to doze off once more, she was suddenly assaulted by an earthquake. Or at least, that's what her tired mind was processing. The shaking finally came to a stop and she felt a hand lift off the covers over her shoulder.

"Rise an' shine, Rainbow!" Applejack gushed, sounding WAY too cheery for such an ungodly hour of the morning.

"Mmmpph...leavemealoneAJ," Rainbow Dash muttered from under the blankets.

"Now now, I done letcha sleep in already, we got the mornin' chores to take care of an' we're already burnin' daylight," Applejack said in a slight scolding tone.

"Go away!" Rainbow groaned, sinking even further under the comforter. Humans were not meant to be awake this early on a vacation. Or perhaps ever.

Applejack chuckled and reached over to grab the top of the blankets, tugging them down. Rainbow struggled in vain as a brief tug of war ensued, but in her half-awake state she was no match for Applejack's determination. For an instant, Rainbow Dash considered committing a felony, but her flash of anger turned to shivers at the cool air flowing over her. Rainbow crawled reluctantly out of bed, gathering what she could of the blankets around her bare legs.

"There now, I saved ya some breakfast an' coffee, it's sittin' on the stove. I'll be outside helpin' Mac with the campfire pit," Applejack said, turning to the door of their cabin and tossing it open. The morning sun stabbed its way into the room, making Rainbow Dash squint as she shambled towards the door to head for the outhouse.

"Uh, sugarcube?" Applejack asked with a grin. "You might wanna wear somethin' other than a blanket outside, the fellas may still be around after all."

Rainbow Dash stopped in her tracks, halfway across the room. Ignoring Applejack's smirk, Rainbow turned and shambled back over to her bunk and picked up her jeans from the nearby chair she had tossed them over and wriggled into them, followed by a hoodie over her nightshirt. Satisfied she was decent enough, Rainbow Dash made her way outside and over to the outhouse.

The morning preparations didn't take too long, and by the time Rainbow Dash had showered, dressed, and wolfed down the leftovers Applejack had left for her along with two cups of coffee, she felt human once again. Just as Rainbow Dash set her dish back in the sink, Applejack walked back into the cabin, wiping a little sweat from her brow.

"It's 'bout time you got ready," Applejack quipped. "You and me are goin' to partake in our first chore, a time-honored country tradition."

Rainbow Dash blinked, genuinely curious. "Oh yeah? So we're going to ride the range, or go plow the south forty, or something like that?"

Applejack chuckled. "Nope! We're goin' to Walmart!"

The drive back into town gave Rainbow Dash time to consider her game plan. Challenging Little Strongheart to an athletic competition was out, which meant Rainbow Dash had to think of another means to capture Big Mac's attention. Her train of thought was chugging along fairly slowly, somewhat derailed by Applejack's slightly off-key singing along with the country music blaring from the radio.

"Applejack, can you turn that down a little?" Rainbow Dash asked pointedly.

Applejack tilted her head, not missing a beat, then nodded and reached over and punched the volume on the radio up a couple of notches.

"No, no, not up! Down!" Rainbow Dash growled over the music.

Applejack hit a particularly sour note as the song reached the climax and Rainbow Dash had to fight to keep the wince off her face. When the tune and assault on her ears had ended, Rainbow Dash leaned over and mashed the volume button down until the radio was nearly silent.

"Now whatcha do that for?" Applejack snorted.

"I can't hardly hear myself think and you didn't turn it down when I asked," Rainbow Dash grumbled.

"Oh! I thought you said turn it up, not down," Applejack grinned. "Sorry if it was too much, it's just that music's in my blood. If there's one thing 'bout bein' an Apple, it's that we're Country to the core," Applejack stated proudly.

"So you listen to that every day back home?" Rainbow Dash asked.

"Sure do! Mac an' I have a radio out with us doin' chores all the time. I reckon he knows even more songs than I do," Appejack answered.

"Hmmm..." Rainbow Dash murmured thoughtfully, as a sudden inspiration came to her. She then reached over and turned the radio back up for the remainder of the ride to the store.

Once Applejack and Rainbow Dash had arrived at the local Walmart, Applejack grabbed a basket and set off at a furious pace through the store, gathering groceries and other sundries. Rainbow Dash helped as best as she could, but eventually her desire to put her plan into motion grew too strong to resist.

"Hey, AJ, I'll be over at the clothing area, catch up with you in a few," Rainbow called out as she tossed one last item into the basket and then made her way to the apparel section.

As she walked through the rows of shirts and tops, Rainbow Dash pulled out her phone and thumbed open her browser to the images she had searched for during the drive. Satisfied that she had the entire outfit in mind, Rainbow Dash began searching for the right sizes as she went from rack to rack.

Applejack placed the last of the items on her list into the basket and headed towards the center of the store to find her shopping partner. It didn't take long for her to spot Rainbow's multi-colored hair bobbing among the clothing racks. As she walked into the ladies section, Applejack saw that Rainbow Dash was eyeing different hats, trying to gauge which size to try on.

"Rainbow, what in tarnation are you doin'?" Applejack asked curiously.

Rainbow Dash whirled around at the sound of Applejack's voice and her face split in a grin. "Hey AJ! Wait here!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed, then scurried off in the direction of the changing rooms, leaving Applejack scratching her head. In just a couple of minutes, Rainbow Dash returned. Rainbow was wearing a red and white checkered shirt with the sleeves rolled up, jean shorts that were bordering on a size too tight and leather western-style boots. Rainbow Dash reached over to the hat rack, grabbed one of the Stetsons and plopped it down on her head. Rainbow Dash paused for a moment for her new ensemble to have its effect on Applejack, then prodded, "So? What do you think?"

Applejack blinked with surprise, then finally found her voice. "Well, looks like Rarity gotcha drunk on Rodeo day and took advantage of ya." Before Rainbow Dash could give a retort, Applejack held up a hand and smiled. "Just teasin'. You actually look kinda...cute. Sure wasn't expectin' somethin' like this though. Why the sudden change?"

"Well, I just thought 'When in Roan, do as the Roanans do', I guess. After all, we are spending two weeks on a ranch," Rainbow replied after a moment.

"Uh huh," Applejack deadpanned. "Just doesn't seem like somethin' you'd go off and do. An' besides, that outfit sure ain't practical, especially if you have to do any chores or such." Applejack took a step back and gave Rainbow Dash a more appraising look. "If I didn't know better, I'd say you were tryin' to impress a fella with that outfit."

Rainbow Dash didn't respond right away, she wasn't ready to confide her attraction to Big Mac just yet to his sister. Unfortunately for Rainbow, the crimson spreading over her cheeks gave Applejack the answer she was expecting.

"Oooh, so you DO have a crush. I knew it! I told ya that Braeburn was good lookin', I can't blame ya for fallin' for him." Applejack gushed.

"Wait, I..." Rainbow started, but stopped herself, quickly weighing her options. If she told Applejack about her crush on Big Mac and Applejack didn't approve, that would mean the next week would be a disaster. She needed time for Big Mac to notice her without his sister interfering. That only left one option.

"Yep, that's it. You always could see right through me, AJ," Rainbow Dash said, trying to sound as nonchalant as she could. To her surprise, Applejack grabbed up Rainbow Dash in a hug, spinning her around.

"Oh sugarcube, that's great! Of course I'll do whatever I can to help you two get some quality time together!" Applejack promised, letting Rainbow Dash out of the embrace.

"Oh, no...that's cool, Applejack, but I'm sure that I can..." Rainbow started to protest.

Applejack shook her head, cutting Rainbow Dash off. "Now, now what kinda best friend would I be not to be your wing-gal at a time like this? Don't you fret, Rainbow, I know just what to do." She ran her eye once more over Rainbow's outfit. "But first thing, we need to get you some working duds, so you can save the other stuff for more 'private' moments," Applejack said a little playfully.

Rainbow Dash sighed inwardly and nodded, playing along. Suddenly her plan didn't feel like such a good idea after all.

The near-midday sun sweltered overhead as Braeburn and Big Mac guided their horses along the path that wound around the edge of the Dude Ranch property. Braeburn pulled up on the reins, bringing his stallion to a stop near one of the fence posts. Swinging himself down from the saddle, Braeburn walked over and ran his eye over the aged post, making a note of the condition.

"Looks like this one's gonna have to be replaced soon too, wouldn't you say Mac?" Braeburn asked over his shoulder. When no reply was forthcoming, Braeburn turned around and saw Big Mac was staring out across the fence, over towards the Reservation.

"Mac? You hear me? I said this post's 'bout done for, you think?" Braeburn said, a little louder.

Big Mac tore his gaze from the horizon and shot a quick glance down at the fence post, then nodded with a "Eeyup" to confirm the assessment.

Braeburn took off his hat and wiped his brow, before setting the Stetson back on his head and studying Big Mac's face a moment. "You sure are quiet today, cuz," Braeburn observed.

"Eeyup," was the curt reply.

"Somethin' on your mind?" Braeburn prodded.

"Eeyup," Big Mac confirmed.

"Want to talk 'bout it?" Braeburn asked as he walked back up and mounted his horse once again to continue their ride.

"Nnope," Big Mac replied.

Braeburn followed Big Mac's stare back out across the fence and out onto the open prarie. Then his face split in a grin. "Ah, yep, I get it now. You're pinin' fer Little Strongheart. Can't say I blame ya, she's right nice lookin' and spirited to boot."

Big Mac just nodded his head and spurred his horse into a trot, following the fence line. Braeburn took off after him, pulling up alongside Big Mac. "Ya know, for a spell there I thought 'bout askin' her out. Not sure why I didn't, then after we entered into negotiations with the tribe, jus' decided that wouldn't be proper-like." Braeburn reflected. "No reason that you can't, Mac. I can tell that ya want to."

Big Mac looked over at Braeburn for a long moment, before replying. "Eey...maybe."

Braeburn chuckled, "I knew it! Well, I'll do what I can to getcha some more time around her, maybe come up with a reason we have to go pay a social call or somethin." Braeburn paused a moment, then blurted out, "Unless o' course you got somethin' goin' on with that cute lil Rainbow that you brought along."

Big Mac blinked, then shook his head. "Nnope, ain't nothing between us." As Big Mac answered, though, the words felt a little quick out of this throat. He'd known Rainbow Dash for years and hadn't stopped to consider the possibility of anything like that with her. Rainbow Dash had her qualities, she was pretty, athletic, full of spirit, devoted to her causes...not unlike the qualities that had attracted Mac to Little Strongheart, he realized.

"Well then, if it's alright with you, I'd like to get to know her better," Braeburn continued. "How about it cuz? You help me out with Rainbow Dash an' I'll do what I can to help you out with Little Strongheart. Deal?"

Big Mac thought that over for several moments, then slowly nodded. "Deal. Now let's get done checking this fence, that way we can ride on back before the girls get back from the store." His heels dug into his horse's flanks a little, breaking into a canter. Braeburn grinned widely, whipping the reins slightly to keep pace with Big Mac. His thoughts were already chewing on what to say next to Rainbow Dash when he saw her again.

Act II - Part 2

Rainbow Dash and Applejack returned from their shopping trip not long after Big Mac and Braeburn had ridden back to the cabins, which allowed everyone to pitch in with unloading the van. The four working together made quick work of stowing the groceries and supplies, leaving only a couple of large sacks which Rainbow Dash claimed.

"Excuse me guys, I'm going to go change, I'll be back in a flash," Rainbow Dash said, grabbing the bags of clothing and walking into the cabin she and Applejack were sharing.

Once Rainbow Dash was inside and out of earshot, Applejack turned to Big Mac. "Can I borrow ya fer a minute?" Applejack asked, motioning for Big Mac to follow her.

"Eeyup," Big Mac replied, nodding his head. Applejack turned and started to walk away from the two cabins. Once Applejack was comfortable they wouldn't be overheard, she stopped and leaned in closer to Big Mac.

"Mac, I need yer help with somethin'," Applejack said with in a low tone that made it sound like she was about to reveal a secret.

Big Mac raised an eyebrow. Applejack rarely did anything surreptitiously, which piqued his curiosity. "Sure thing, Sis. What's on yer mind?"

"Well..." Applejack said quietly. "It's about Rainbow Dash an' Braeburn. Seems she's kinda taken a shine to him, so I need you to help me make sure them two get plenty of time together while we're vistin'," Applejack explained.

"Really now?" Big Mac mused, raising one eyebrow. "Well that's sure convenient timin', while we were out checkin' the fence-line, Braeburn told me he's got the same interest in Rainbow Dash an' asked if I would help him tryin' to get to know her better."

"Did he now? Well, I'll be!" Applejack exclaimed. "Sounds like you an' me get to be Apple family matchmakers!"

Big Mac chuckled, "Eeyup, I guess we do. We jus' need to go 'bout it more subtle-like than somethin' Apple Bloom an' her friends would do."

Applejack laughed out loud. "Oh Lord...don't remind me about Valentine's Day an' the mess they caused tryin' to set me up with that fella from Fluttershy's journalism class. What was his name? Trendy-somethin'? I don't think the girls stopped teasin' me for nearly a month, 'specially Rarity."

"I remember, an' eeyup that was a mite awkward," Big Mac reminisced.

"Well, glad we're on the same page 'bout Rainbow an' Braeburn, keep yer eyes open for a way to get them some time together so they can talk an' such," Applejack said. "Guess we can head on back, I jus' wanted you to know what was goin' on."

"Thanks, AJ," Big Mac replied. Before Applejack could start walking, Big Mac cleared his throat. "Oh, while we're talkin' 'bout things, I really like that Indian gal we met, Little Strongheart. I'm hopin' we might see more of her soon. I think Braeburn's goin' to try an' set somethin' up."

"Oooh, so finally some gal's gone and turned yer head, huh?" Applejack said teasingly. Her expression shifted from playful to more wistful as she saw Big Mac's blush. "Well, of course I'll do anythin' I can to help," Applejack smiled.

"I knew ya would, AJ, I'm right eager to see her an' ..." Big Mac started, then his voice trailed off as his attention shifted past Applejack. Applejack cocked her head at the sudden change of focus, then turned and looked back over her shoulder.

Rainbow Dash had emerged from the cabin, and Applejack couldn't help but blink in surprise at Rainbow's transformation. Rainbow Dash's tight, boot-cut jeans accentuated her lean, muscular legs all the way down to her leather Western-style boots. Her shirt was a soft, blue checkered pattern, which Rainbow Dash had rolled up the sleeves just above the elbows. Her multi-colored hair had been tied back in a pony-tail, and on her head she wore a light-brown Stetson hat. To complete the ensemble, Rainbow had tied a red bandanna around her neck, like a kerchief. She was standing just off the porch with one foot up on the step to the cabin.

Applejack heard Big Mac's slight gasp from beside her, but before either she or Big Mac could speak, Braeburn's voice broke the silence.

"My stars, Rainbow. You look amazin'!" Braeburn exhaled, not realizing he had been holding his breath.

"Ya sure do," Big Mac echoed. "Very, very pretty," Big Mac huffed slightly as Applejack's elbow dug into his ribs and she shot Big Mac a stern glance then flicked her gaze back over to Braeburn. "Yep, jus' like Braeburn said," Mac quickly added.

Rainbow Dash stepped off the porch and stretched, her features brightening at the compliments. "Thanks guys! I have to give AJ some credit though, she helped me pick out a few things."

Braeburn finally tore his eyes away from Rainbow Dash and spoke up. "Oh, I thought tonight might be a good night fer a campfire dinner an' some storytellin'. I was thinkin' I'd invite Little Strongheart to join us, if that's alright with y'all."

"That sounds right nice to me, what about you, Mac?" Applejack agreed, looking up at Big Mac somewhat expectantly.

Big Mac's gaze lingered on Rainbow Dash for a couple of moments before he looked back down at Applejack and answered with a grin, "Eeyup, that seems right nice."

Rainbow Dash watched the exchange between brother and sister and inside her head, a little voice started to complain that something had to be up, but now wasn't the time to press the issue. Rainbow Dash gave a little shrug, and said, "Sure, the more the merrier."

"I'll head over to the reservation an' ask her then," Braeburn said to the group. "Mac, you wanna go over with me?" Braeburn asked, remembering their recent pact regarding the attractive Indian maiden.

"Actually, he's gonna help me with gettin' things sorted an' prepared for t'night," Applejack interjected, giving Big Mac a look. "But maybe Rainbow can go with ya?" Applejack suggested, giving Rainbow just a hint of a wink.

Rainbow Dash sighed inwardly, she really had no desire to ride all the way over to the Reservation with Braeburn, but it was her own fault that she'd not been straightforward with Applejack about her intentions. Rainbow Dash could hardly blame Applejack for wanting to "help" her find ways to interact more privately with Braeburn.

"Nnope, I'd like ta go," Big Mac said suddenly, earning a glare of surprise and annoyance from Applejack.

"It's prolly best if Rainbow and Braeburn go, don'tcha think?" Applejack said, trying to keep her tone civil.

"An' I said nope, I'm goin' with Braeburn," Big Mac insisted.

"Eheh, excuse us a second," Applejack said, grabbing Big Mac's arm and dragging him aside, as Rainbow Dash and Braeburn looked on curiously.

"I thought we agreed that Rainbow an' Braeburn could use some time together," Applejack hissed.

"An' I thought I told YOU that I was hankerin' to see Little Strongheart s'more," Big Mac snapped back.

"Y'all OK over there?" Braeburn called over.

"Eeyup!" both of the Apple siblings answered at once, before hunkering back down into their argument.

"Look, Sis, Braeburn's jus' tryin' to do his part to help set me up with Little Strongheart, I'm sure it's why he asked me ta go," Big Mac whispered. "B'sides, this'll give you an' Rainbow a chance to talk things over, girl-like."

"I already talked with Rainbow, you big galoot! Why do ya think I'm tryin' to set her and Braeburn up together?" Applejack answered hotly.

"We ain't gonna solve nothing by fightin'," Big Mac said. "You let me go with Braeburn now, an' I'll talk him up 'bout Rainbow and seeing that he pays special attention to her t'night at the campfire. OK?"

Applejack and Big Mac held each other's glare a moment, before Applejack blinked first. "Fine!" Applejack huffed, walking towards the cabin. "C'mon Dash, let's get ta work on things for supper while the boys go pay a social call." Applejack groused. Rainbow Dash looked over to Braeburn, who shrugged unknowingly, then Rainbow followed Applejack back into their cabin.

"What in tarnation was that about, cuz?" Braeburn asked, pulling the keys from his pocket and walking toward the van.

"I'll tell ya later, let's go," Big Mac replied, walking to the van and opening the door to climb into the passenger seat.

"What was all that ruckus about?" Rainbow Dash asked Applejack once they were inside.

"Nothing ta worry about," Applejack replied, which earned her a scowl from Rainbow Dash.

"You know you're a terrible liar, right?" Rainbow Dash shot back. "Something's up with you two, and I get the sinking suspicion it's about me."

Applejack started to retort, but instead her shoulders slumped a little. "Yer right, it was," Applejack admitted. "I told Mac 'bout your interest in Braeburn, an' how I was hopin' we could get the two of ya some more private time together."

"You did WHAT?" Rainbow Dash exploded.

"An' it would have worked out fine if that stubborn mule hadn't insisted on goin' with Braeburn to see Little Strongheart. But he's got the hots for her, so he wanted to go out with Braeburn to the Reservation an' I guess be the one to invite her back over tonight." Applejack grumbled.

Rainbow Dash's face scrunched up for another outburst when realization finally dawned on what Applejack had just said.

"Mac...is interested in Little Strongheart?" Rainbow Dash asked in disappointment, her bluster completely deflated.

"Yep, he is, an' he asked me to see if I can help steer them two together," Applejack answered.

Rainbow Dash sat down heavily in one of the chairs beside the table in the center of the cabin. "I knew it, I just knew it," Rainbow Dash muttered sullenly.

Applejack walked over to Rainbow Dash and put a hand on her friend's shoulder, not understanding what had her upset. "Well, maybe it's fer the best, sugarcube. With Mac chasin' after Little Strongheart, it means Braeburn won't haveta be the attentive host, an' maybe you and he can focus on each other more." Applejack offered comfortingly.

Rainbow Dash sighed, then looked up at Applejack. "AJ...it's not Braeburn who I'm interested in spending time with."

Applejack blinked. "Then who in the...oh. Oh!" Applejack said, as realization hit her. Kneeling down so she was at eye-level with Rainbow Dash, Applejack asked, "How long have you felt this way 'bout Mac, Rainbow?"

Rainbow Dash chewed her lower lip a moment as she thought it over. "I guess most of last year, I remember Scoots teasing me at about it at the BB/BS car wash. I was so busy with all of the sports seasons that I really didn't make an effort to do anything about it. But then that night at the Spring Fling..."

Applejack smiled. "Yeah, I remember. That was the night we were so proud of Sunset Shimmer fer doin' what she could to make sure that Rarity won the crown finally."

Rainbow Dash smiled back, despite her heavy heart. "She really did come a long way, didn't she? It was at the dance that night that I decided to take a shot and asked Big Mac to dance with me." Rainbow's eyes gazed into the distance as she recalled that moment.

The music was booming through the gym, courtesy of Vinyl as the students partied to celebrate the crowning of the Spring Fling Princess. Rarity looked resplendent with the crown atop her head catching and reflecting the strobe lights that were sweeping over the dancers.

As the current song ended, the tempo changed abruptly as Vinyl put on a slower song so the crowd could catch their breath and enjoy a more couple-friendly tune. Seeing this was her chance, Rainbow Dash excused herself from Fluttershy and Photo Finish and walked over to where Big Mac was talking with Thunderlane and Bulk Biceps.

"Mac, would you like to dance this song with me?" Rainbow Dash asked.

Big Mac looked surprised by the request, but then said, "Sure, Rainbow. See you boys in a couple." Thunderlane just smirked and Bulk Biceps silently mouthed a "Yeeeah!" as Mac and Rainbow went out onto the dance floor.

The music swirled around them as they danced in a slow circle, revolving around each other. In time, the song ended and Mac shyly detached himself and returned to standing with the other guys, while Rainbow returned to her friends, realizing that she had a crush on the tall, handsome farmer.

"Rainbow, you danced with lots of guys that night," Applejack said, snapping Rainbow Dash out of the memory.

"Yeah, true, but that one meant something," Rainbow Dash responded. "Ever since then, I've not gone out with anyone else, I've been trying to think of the best way to let him know how I feel."

Applejack shook her head, standing back up fully. "Well, did ya ever think 'bout just talking to him? You've seen him plenty of times at the farm since."

"It's not that easy, AJ. What if I said something wrong and screwed things up? What if he didn’t feel the same way about me?" Rainbow Dash replied.

"Now I've seen everything, the day that Rainbow Dash wasn't confident 'bout somethin'." Applejack teased gently. "But sugarcube, if you really feel that way for Mac, you shouldn't have told me you were interested in Braeburn. I coulda helped steer Mac clear of Little Whatshername an' let you have yer shot."

"I know, it was dumb. I didn't want you freaking out about me getting sappy or something with Mac and it didn't work out and spoiling the trip," Rainbow Dash admitted. "And now, I'm screwed, Mac wants someone else."

Applejack thought that over for a minute. "Maybe not. If I know my brother, he's goin' to be jus' as shy around her. Besides, she's all exotic an' such, but I know what will appeal more to my brother than that."

"Really?" Rainbow Dash squeaked, her voice cracking slightly. "What's that?"

"Devotion," Applejack answered soberly. "An' I don't know anyone that's more loyal than you, Rainbow. We just have to showcase yer virtues... So help me, never thought I'd say that... more than she does hers."

Rainbow Dash didn't catch the little barb from Applejack, looking up earnestly. "And how do we do that?" she asked.

"I don't rightly know. But we got all afternoon ta figure it out." Applejack smiled. "Come on, we'll scheme an' talk while we work up the vittles for tonight."