Frivolityby Scramblers and ShadowsChaptersCelebrationLunchHotelCelebrationFrivolity Celebration Pinkie scampered down the dimly lit road, chill winter air rushing past her, bouncing a little on every eighth step, mind a flurry of anticipation. She had wanted to be away earlier, but work at Sugarcube Corner had kept her. Three hours and twenty-four minutes earlier Rarity would have received a telegram, which would have said one of two things. Either she would be happy and need somepony to celebrate with, or she would be – how awful! – miserable and need somepony to cheer her up. No matter what the outcome, Pinkie had to be at Carousel Boutique. A friend's happiness depended on it. She hammered on the door as soon as she arrived, loud enough to make ponies in nearby houses to peer out their windows. “I'm coming, I'm coming! Don't worry!” called Rarity from within. Pinkie stood waiting, buzzing a little, hope and worry coiled around her throat. If she didn't find out soon, she might explode. The door opened, bathing Pinkie in warmth and light and joy, and there stood Rarity, backlit from within. Her expression was unreadable in the shadow, but her stance was cheerful and confident, her ears up, head cocked slightly. “Pinkie! Oh, my. Come in, come in! To what do I owe the pleasure, my dear?” Pinkie pronked into the room. “Hi Rarity! Didja get it? Well, didja? Didja?” Rarity closed the door. Her smile grew. “I did indeed!” she said. Her composure wavered, then shattered, and she leapt up and down on her hooves. “I did! I so did! Look!” She galloped across the room, picked up a slip of paper with her aura and sent it flying into Pinkie's mane. “Oh dear. I do apologise! I may be just the slightest bit overexcited.” Pinkie searched through her mane for a moment and, with a clink of glass, retrieved the telegram, and read: Dear Ms. Rarity, Yes. Designs perfect. Negotiations open next week in Manehattan. Further details and formal request to follow by mail. Flaxseed Co-operative “Ooh,” said Pinkie Pie. “Fancy!” “I'm going to Manehattan!” said Rarity with a little squeal. “I'll get to walk down Morgan Boulevard, sit in the warmth sipping a sidecar or a daiquiri! I'll be at the highest of social events in East Riding! I'll be working with some of the most influential ponies in the business! I'll … Wait. Pinkie, what are you keeping in your mane?” “Oh, oh, I know this one!” said Pinkie. “A spool of cotton, a rubber chicken, some ice, some spearmint chews for Gummy, a –” “No, no, none of those. Something made of glass, I think.” “That's just the champagne I got to celebrate, silly!” Pinkie pulled a bottle from her mane and offered it to Rarity. Smile growing and eyes glistening, Rarity inspected the bottle. Yes! She was impressed. “You got this for me?” she said. “And it's vintage too! How did you ever … ? Pinkie, darling, wait right there! I'm going to get some flutes. We absolutely must have this right away!” Calmer now, but still with a jig in her step which made her tail bounce, she trotted over to the kitchen. Pinkie watched her all the way. Soon they were settled on the floor with a glass each and the foaming bottle beside them. “I'm so pleased you came by,” began Rarity. “I was going to tell the girls about it tomorrow at lunch, but to have you drop by was such a nice surprise.” “Aw, no biggie! I was just there in the kitchen baking away and singing when it hit me – 'Rarity is getting her telegram today!' – and so I knew I had to come over to see if you got accepted, and then I realised I had to get some champagne to have if you did, but I had some champagne I bought earlier just in case, and –” “Darling, take a breath between sentences, remember? I don't want you passing out again.” “Can do!” Pinkie Pie took several deep breaths. Then she realised she had forgotten to drink any of her champagne and emptied the glass in one draught. The bubbles stung her throat, and she shivered. “Pinkie!” chided Rarity. “We drink in sips.” She topped up Pinkie's glass. “Oh, yeah. Oops.” Rarity flashed Pinkie a grin which make her breath catch in her throat. “But since it's your champagne, I think we can overlook the occasional minor breach of etiquette.” Rarity downed her own glass, remaining elegant throughout, and then refilled it. “You've been dropping by quite often lately,” she continued. “Any reason? There isn't anything on your mind, is there?” Pinkie fumbled her glass and splashed champagne all over her muzzle. “Anything on my mind? Nope! Not at all, no sir. I … Have I been here too much? I'm not annoying you, am I? I can try and stop it if you want.” “No! Never in a million years would I ask you to stop coming here. Hold on, let me get that for you –” Rarity dabbed at Pinkie's muzzle with a handkerchief. “– I like your company. I just wanted to make sure there was nothing else on your mind.” “Nuhuh. I'm peachy! Peachy as a peach. A pink, fluffy peach with streamers and glitter.” “I think I'll stick with my peaches normal and … uh … peach,” said Rarity. And, more quietly: “My ponies, however, I'm quite happy to have pink and fluffy and bedecked with streamers.” “Good! 'Cause otherwise I'd have to go and dye my mane or something, and then I might get mistaken for a different pony, and everypony would be wondering where Pinkie had gone, and I'd be trying to tell them, but soon some rich and mysterious pony would mistake me for his long-lost niece. And then things would get complicated!” “Yes,” said Rarity. “Very true.” Ears pinned, she looked away and gave a very slight sigh. Pinkie's throat tightened. Had her digression annoyed Rarity. Oh, foolish, foalish, silly pony. “You all right, Rares?” she asked, voice softer. “Hm? Yes, yes, I'm fine. Don't worry, dear.” “Hey,” said Pinkie, peering at the telegram and trying to engage Rarity again. “Why does it say 'negotiations open next week'? Don't you already have the contract?” “Oh, no no no. Not at all.” Rarity perked up again. “The co-operative comes from a very traditionalist Earth pony clan. Reputation and social connections are a big thing for them – originally it was to protect them from being manipulated by richer unicorns during the early days of Equestria. Obviously that's not relevant now, but the traditions are still there, so before anypony gets into a close association with them, they have to spend some time building relationships within the co-operative. “I'll spend a month in Manehattan talking designs, potential clients, manufacturing methods, that sort of thing. But – and this is the important part – I'll be attending several important social events. Purely for business reasons, I assure you. “In short, all I need to do to actually get the contract is what I already do by second nature: Deftly manoeuvre the currents of reputation, alliance, and status, and generally charm the horseshoes off of everypony!” She refilled Pinkie's and her nearly empty glasses. “Pardon me if this is intrusive, but shouldn't you already know this? If I'm not mistaken, the rock farming communities of East Riding are mostly associated with the co-operative. You did grow up on a rock farm there, didn't you?” “Yep!” Pinkie nodded. “But I was just a little pink filly when I left. You know when you're eating a delicious trifle and you think to yourself 'ohmigosh this is so super delicious!' because the cream and the custard and the jelly go together so well and it's just the best thing ever?” “ … Yes?” said Rarity Pinkie took a gulp of champagne. “Well, my mom and my dad and me aren't really like the cream and the custard and the jelly. We don't go well together. Or form a tasty treat when placed in a bowl!” Rarity's eyes widened. “Oh, Pinkie,” she said. She raised her hoof to Pinkie's face and brushed a few strands of her mane back. Pinkie's heart leapt at the touch. “I know how that feels,” Rarity continued. And, without her accent for a moment, “Boy, do I ever.” Pinkie felt a lump rising in her throat. She took Rarity's hoof and slowly moved it aside. “It's okay,” she said. “I'm not sad about it. I don't argue with them … We just don't talk much. You don't need to worry about me.” Rarity smiled, her hoof still resting against Pinkie's. “I think I will anyway. Just in case.” She looked down. “More champagne?” Pinkie's head was fuzzed, and her bounce was softened, but she nodded anyway. Rarity refilled the glasses. Even her aura was beautiful, Pinkie realised. “Hey!” said Pinkie. “How about some music?” She jumped up. “We're celebrating! We need to be all dancey, not all mopey!” “Quite true!” said Rarity. She downed half her glass. “Well? You have a couple of LPs stashed away somewhere near here, surely?” “Oh, Rarity.” Pinkie chuckled. “Of course I do! But … it's your celebration. You're the celebree! It should be your music.” “Well, if you say so,” said Rarity. “Hold on, let me just …” She tried to stand, stumbled, and Pinkie grabbed her hoof to stop her from falling. “Oh, thank you! How embarrassing.” “Not at all, miss!” Pinkie doffed an imaginary top hat. Rarity stifled a squeal and ended up giggling instead. Swaying, she trotted across the boutique, pulled aside a section of carpet, and opened a hidden hatch. “I keep my best records down here,” she explained, “where Sweetie Belle won't ruin them.” Horn glowing, she pulled out several discs. “Any preference? How about some jazz?” “Sure!” said Pinkie. She was too busy watching Rarity's rear to worry too much about the choice. Moments later the sounds of saxophone and piano flowed from the phonograph. Rarity walked back to Pinkie. Her mane was slightly off kilter, a twang of disorder in a sea of engineered beauty. “Hey!” said Pinkie. “Let's dance! Come on, it'll be super fun!” “Oh, Pinkie.” Rarity giggled. “That's not how you ask! I'm a lady. You need to ask me properly!” “Oh yeah,” said Pinkie. She rubbed her chin. “Uhhh …” Rarity rolled her eyes. “Offer me your hoof. No, right hoof. Yes! Now say, 'May I have –'” Rarity was cut off by a small burp. “Oh my,” she said, looking away. “I do beg your pardon.” “Oh, oh, shall we compare? How about –” Rarity was staring at her. Pinkie stopped herself. Her right hoof was still in the air. “Oops! I mean: May I have this dance, Miss Rarity?” Rarity took her hoof. “I'd love to.” “Whee!” Pinkie danced, and Rarity yelped. “Pinkie!” “What?” “Slow down! Please?” “Okie dokie!” The ponies danced, stumbling and swaying and out of time with the music, stopping on occasion to to drink some more champagne – this time directly from the bottle. Mane growing more dishevelled with each swing, Rarity looked into Pinkie's eyes, and Pinkie found herself getting bolder and more exploratory with her touch, and pulling Rarity closer. Pinkie couldn't tell how long they had been dancing – it might've been minutes or hours – when Rarity's hooves slid out from under her. She tumbled forward, into Pinkie's chest, and Pinkie sank to the floor with her. “Oh, uh, sorry,” said Rarity, muffled. She pulled back. “S'okay,” said Pinkie. “I …” Pinkie swallowed. Rarity's face there in front of her, inches away, a stray strand of purple hanging across Rarity's nose. She felt Rarity's warm breath on her muzzle, saw Rarity's gaze moving from her eyes to her mouth and back again. Rarity was right there. She had to. She just had to. But what if Rarity didn't like it? It might make her retreat, might ruin the friendship. It might make Rarity unhappy. And that was something Pinkie hated to think about. But she couldn't let the opportunity slip by! Seizing opportunities for happiness no matter how slim was the whole meaning behind Pinkamena Diane Pie. But … Rarity kissed Pinkie Pie. Rarity's nose brushing against her. Rarity's lips against her own, soft and warm and wet, tasting of champagne. Rarity's perfume, sweet and subtle, as she pulled away. Oh. “That is what you were going to do, isn't it?” said Rarity softly. “You froze, so I decided to take the initiative.” Her eyes widened. “That … is what you wanted, right?” Pinkie tried to answer, but nothing came to mind. Her heart was hammering. She leant forward, brushed the errant strand of Rarity's mane aside, and kissed her. “Yep!” she said when the shock has subsided. “I wanted to but I didn't, and then you did instead, so it's okay, and then I did, and it was so fun! Wanna go again?” Rarity smiled. “Hush, and kiss me again, you silly, impetuous creature!” They spent the next few minutes in each other's arms kissing and nuzzling and stroking and occasionally nipping. When Rarity's hoof sidled downwards, Pinkie stopped her as gently as she could. “Nuhuh,” she said. “It's … uh … can't ice the cakes before they … um .. come out the oven?” Her cheeks warmed, and she looked down. Rarity put a hoof under Pinkie's chin and lifted till Pinkie met her gaze. “It's okay, darling,” she said. “We don't have to rush.” She kissed Pinkie again. A few minutes later, as wonderful as the moment was, Pinkie started to get bored. She extricated herself from Rarity's hold and, after a last nuzzle, jumped up and stretched. “Hey,” she began. “Mhmm?” said Rarity, still sprawled on the floor with her eyes closed. “Woohoo! I'm so super glad I came round and celebrated with you!” She pronked around Rarity giggling. “I'm glad too,” murmured Rarity. “Might I ask, though: How can you go jumping about after all that champagne? I can barely …” “My head is all fuzzy inside, but that's okay 'cause it's all fuzzy outside too, so there's balance, and that means I don't fall over!” “Oh … Well, fair enough, then.” From within the balanced fuzz, a small, chill worry flew out and glanced off the inside of Pinkie's skull. Not now! Worries, worries, worries. Always intruding on fun. She stopped pronking. “Rarity?” “Yes?” “Do you wanna have some more super fun celebrations later? We could celebrate when you finish a new dress, or when the postman comes, or when Opalescence is a good kitty and washes herself, or when –” “Yes! Yes, Pinkie, you needn't concern yourself. This isn't a one-off, I assure you. Unless you want it to be, of course.” “Ohhh, no no no no no no no no! I really want to celebrate again! And maybe we can even … celebrate more energetically.” “I think I should like that,” said Rarity. “Like with balloons and cake!” “I, uh … suppose so?” “Woo!” As the night progressed, they talked of small nothings, cuddled some more, and finished off the champagne. Pinkie suggested getting more, but Rarity, summoning a few shreds of sense, suggested they settle for water. They both had to be up at a reasonably hour tomorrow, she reminded Pinkie, and look halfway presentable for lunch. After some chiding from Rarity, Pinkie had reluctantly given up trying to blow bubbles with her water and settled for just drinking it. “I was thinking,” said Rarity, stifling a yawn. “Given that I will going away to work with a traditionalist Earth pony group, I may need a … cultural guide, shall we say? My etiquette is perfect, of course, but even so …” “I know! How about Applejack? She's really knowledgeable about Earth pony culture! I bet she –” Seeing Rarity's expression, Pinkie stopped herself. “I mean, um, I could be your guide! 'Cause I'm an Earth pony! Can I be your guide, Rares?” “I would love you to be my guide, Pinkie Pie.” Rarity yawned again. “Yes, the two of us together in Manehattan for a month. That would be lovely,” she murmured, leaning forward to kiss Pinkie's nose. Pinkie wanted to leap up and dance around the room again, but she didn't for fear she might disturb Rarity. And she was feeling a little tired herself, though she didn't want to admit it – what if she went to bed and woke up tomorrow to find it was all a dream? Wouldn't that be awful? Pinkie jumped up, almost spilling her water, and twirled twice. “Sweetie … sweetie, what are you doing?” asked Rarity. “Just checking to see if anything changed!” said Pinkie. She dropped to the floor again. “Nothing did, so it's okay!” Rarity blinked, then shrugged. “Good,” she said quietly. “So long as you're happy.” “Super happy! Still!” Smiling, Rarity nodded. “I think it may be time for bed. A lady must get her beauty sleep, after all. Especially when she finds herself seeing somepony.” Pinkie stood first and helped Rarity to her hooves. “Would you like to join me, Pinkie?” said Rarity as Pinkie led her upstairs. Pinkie imagined spending the night beside Rarity, holding her, being held, and joy flickered through her. She wanted to jump, to leap, to bound. She wanted to break out a pink and white banner emblazoned “YES!” in giant capitals. But … “Ohhh, I can't! I want to, but … I need to be back home tonight or else Gummy might get hungry and lonely. And what if being hungry and lonely makes him all evil? Like Nightmare Gums or something! I gotta make sure.” Rarity was silent the rest of the way up the stairs. As they entered her bedroom, she said, “All right. I understand.” She gave Pinkie a final nuzzle, and then retreated. Leaving Carousel Boutique, Pinkie smiled and smiled. She bounced even more than she had on her way there. Rarity liked her! Rarity liked her! Not some boring old Canterlot aristocrat, no. Her. Pinkie. And she was such a good kisser. Just recalling it made Pinkie shiver. Her mane still held some of Rarity's scent. Rarity was a good kisser, she smelt wonderful, and … And and and and and she liked Pinkie! But why? She stopped for a moment and shivered again, this time at the freezing air. Then she pushed a tangle of her mane in front of her muzzle. “Brrrrr!” she said to herself, breaking into a gallop. “Brr brr brr! Silly Pinkie, waiting about the cold like this! You'll catch your death just in time for going away with Rarity!” Back at Sugarcube Corner, her bed was warm and snuggly. But empty, And not as warm or snuggly as Rarity's bed would be right now. Pinkie rolled over and found herself face to face with Gummy. Gummy blinked. His breath still smelt of tinned protein paste, and after wrinkling her nose, Pinkie popped a spearmint chew in his mouth. She had previously considered getting him a toothbrush, but ended up breaking down in giggles every time she was halfway to the shop. “What do you think?” she asked Gummy, rolling onto her back and holding Gummy in front of her face. “Can I be her prince? Why does she want a prince who's pink and squidgy and bit chubby? Will she mind if I don't want to celebrate straight away?” Gummy blinked. “I guess so,” said Pinkie. “But what if …” Gummy blinked. “You're right!” said Pinkie. “I just have to ask her, and then it'll all be okay.” She pulled Gummy close to her chest and cuddled as hard as she dared. His eyes went askew. “Aw, Gummy. You're best friend a squidgy pink prince could ask for!” She tucked Gummy in beside her turned the bedside lamp off. In the dark she whispered to herself. “Once upon a time a little pink filly walked from the gates of a rock farm. She was as happy as happy could be, and she wanted to spread that happiness to every pony she met …” And sleep took her before she could go any further. Author's Note So -- my first foray into shipping! (What have you done to me, pony fandom?) And here, since I insist on trying to be original, here we have: 1. Rather than a story about getting together, a story about what happens just after you get together. 2. In contrast to the Pinkie-is-a-sexpot cliché, Rarity taking the lead as the confident one. 3. An author who wishes he wasn't so busy&tired&borderline-anhedonic right now, so he could writer a better note. Have fun, guys. LunchFrivolity Lunch Pinkie, sitting outside Carousel Boutique the following day, adjusted her hat. It had been a busy morning. Waking early and, despite the twinge of a hangover, setting about baking right away. Then explaining to Mrs Cake why the icing said what did. Then rooting through her hidey holes for an outfit. Then, finally coming out here so Rarity wouldn't have to walk to Sugarcube Corner alone. Pinkie had decided to give her dinner suit another spin. It really was a very nice outfit, fitting perfectly, dark and smooth, and despite her antics, it was without crease or crumple. Pinkie didn't know much about elegance, but if anything was elegant, this was. And, most importantly, it was the sort of thing Rarity liked. Unless she objected to wearing the same outfit twice. Or perhaps Pinkie had messed up some detail, or was wearing it out of season, whatever that meant. But surely Rarity wouldn't mind, would she? Pinkie was considering hiding it behind the nearest tree when Rarity, wearing a powder-blue ruffled dress, opened the door. Pinkie put on her biggest nothing's-wrong grin. “Hi Rarity! Hi hi hi! Are you ready? Are you? Today is going to be so fun, I can tell. I bet Twilight will have a banner and everything!” “Good morning. Oh my, you look spectacular! You're here to … escort me to lunch?” Pinkie nodded. “How delightful! Well, then, lead the way.” Rarity offered her hoof, and, suppressing a squee, Pinkie took it, leading her out. When Rarity had closed the door she peered closely at Pinkie's chest, brow ever so slightly furrowed. Pinkie quailed inside but kept smiling. “Hold still for just one moment,” said Rarity. Horn glowing, she tugged at Pinkie's bow tie. “There we go! Perfect. Come along, then, we mustn't keep the others waiting.” Chiding aside, Rarity seemed happy enough to trot along at a leisurely pace while Pinkie pronked beside – and occasionally around – her. “Oh, they're going to be so pleased for you!” said Pinkie. “I can tell! They'll be all 'woo-hoo Rarity' and then I will be all like 'woo-hoo Rarity' too. Oh, and then they'll all be pleased for us too!” A thought hit her. She froze. “They will, won't they?” Rarity took her hoof. “Sweetheart, why ever wouldn't they be pleased for us?” “'Cause what if they think I'm stealing you from them? Or that we'll spend too much time together and forget about them? Or or or or – what about Spike? I don't want to upset him. Or what if –” “Pinkie, I assure you we've nothing to worry about. These are our friends, remember. I've got myself flustered more often than I care to think about, worrying how they might look upon me and my behaviour. And every time they have shown me how silly I was being. I know I can rely on my friends not to judge me for things like who I choose to court. And I'm sure you know that too.” Rarity raised an eyebrow. “Normally I'm the one worrying what other ponies will think of me, and you're the one blithely dancing through social interactions. Are you sure there's nothing else troubling you?” “Oh, I don't mind if anypony thinks I'm silly,” explained Pinkie. “'Cause I am silly! But this is super-duper important, and I don't want them to think I'm being silly about it.” She smiled a little. “Also I don't want to upset anypony … I want to make ponies smile, not make them frown.” Rarity leant forward and gave Pinkie a quick kiss on the nose. “Together, we will make them smile. I am absolutely sure of it.” “And Spike?” “Spike is very sweet, but I have no romantic interest in him. He had to learn that eventually. And I suppose sooner is better than later. Perhaps after this he can move his attentions elsewhere.” Rarity's face lit up. “Ooh! Perhaps I could see if there's any spark between him and Sweetie Belle! Wouldn't that be adorable? And much better than having to worry about her vanishing behind bushes with colts in a few years.” “Oh, uh, yeah … that would be better for her,” said Pinkie. “I knew you'd agree! Now come along, we're almost late as it is!” They started walking again. “Rares?” Pinkie spoke more softly than usual. “Yes?” “I know lots about being friends and making friends because I've done it so much, but this, us … I don't know so much. And I really really want it to work and make us happy.” “I do too, my dear. And it may not always be easy, but I assure that together we shall chart a course.” They continued onwards. “There you are, Pinkie! I thought you'd be here already,” said Twilight as Pinkie entered Sugarcube Corner. She was sat at a table alongside Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and Fluttershy. Above them, hung from the rafters, was a furled banner, its message hidden. Rarity walked in after Pinkie. “Hello, girls,” she announced, beaming. “How delightful to see you all.” She and Pinkie sat beside one another at the table. “Well, isn't this lovely?” “Well, hurry up. Don't keep us waiting!” said Rainbow Dash. “What did they say?” Applejack rolled her eyes. “Give her a chance,” she said to Dash. Ignoring them, Twilight leaned forward. “Well?” she said to Rarity. Rarity pulled the telegram from out from within her dress and brandished it. “I –” The other ponies all went quiet “ – was accepted! I'll be liaising with Flaxseed Co-operative ” “That's great news! I knew it!” Twilight smiled, and with her aura unfurled the banner above them to reveal CONGRATULATIONS, RARITY in perfectly even letters. “Well done, sugarcube!” “Awesome!” “I'm so happy for you.” Pinkie grinned at Rarity. “See? I said it, didn't I? Woo-hoo Rarity!” She pulled Rarity in for a hug, and Rarity turned and kissed her lightly. A fraction of a second of shock, of realising this was in front of their friends, then Pinkie kissed her back. When Pinkie turned back, it was to wide eyes, but not shocked expressions. “I suppose there is something else for me to announce,” said Rarity. “Hah, I knew it!” said Dash. “I saw that coming. Didn't I say it?” Rarity's eyes narrowed. “Excuse me?” Pleased as punch that nopony was objecting, Pinkie almost leapt from her seat. “Oh, Dashie, you knew? How clever! You should be the fortune teller while I'm away. I –” A look from Rarity stopped her. “Only 'cause Fluttershy told you,” said Applejack. “Ain't that right?” Fluttershy nodded. “Yeah.” She studied the floor. “Sorry, Rarity. I just thought about how often you mentioned Pinkie Pie during our spa visits, and … ” “Oh, darling, you've nothing to be sorry about,” said Rarity. Looking at Dash: “Some of us, however, could stand to be a little more tactful when telling others how much we know.” Twilight cleared her throat. “Well, then, I guess double congratulations are in order!” After which, she turned to Fluttershy and in a voice Pinkie could barely hear said, “You never told me.” Mrs Cake appeared beside the table before Fluttershy could say anything. “Hello, dears!” she said. “Are you ready for your food now? Oh, before you order too much, I have a rather large surprise for dessert, courtesy of Pinkie Pie!” “Aw, it's nothing much,” said Pinkie. They all ordered. “Only three cupcakes, Pinkie?” asked Mrs. Cake. “My, at this rate you'll be on a diet by the time you get back from Manehattan.” “Ooh, maybe,” said Pinkie. “That might be fun!” Mrs. Cake smiled at her and swished away to the kitchen. “You're going to Manehattan too?” Twilight asked. “Yep,” said Pinkie. “With Rarity!” “Yeah, I gathered that. Won't she be kind of busy?” “Oh, don't worry, darling,” said Rarity. “It'll be fine. No trouble at all.” “I'm gonna be her guide! It'll be so fun!” said Pinkie. Twilight's smile faltered. “Her guide? Are you sure that's a good idea?” “What ever do you mean?” asked Rarity, leaning forward, eyes narrowed. “I … uh … I mean … well ...” “I think what Twilight's tryin' to get at it that bein' Rarity's guide is gonna be a lot of responsibility,” said Applejack. “There are gonna be lots of stuck-up ponies there who mightn't take well to your … normal ways of behavin'. You gotta be ready to handle it, Pinkie.” “Exactly,” said Twilight. Pinkie smiled. “Oh, I am! I'm totally ready. I really am!” She turned to Rarity. “Am I?” “Yes, sweetheart.” Rarity brushed a hoof very gently along Pinkie's jawline. “I have complete confidence in you. You are going to be fine, I'm sure.” She glanced at Applejack. “Though 'stuck-up' is hardly the term I'd use. To be sure, there are high class ponies who are perhaps … less sympathetic than they ought to be, but that's no reason to sling abusive epithets around.” “Epi-whats now?” Pinkie stopped paying attention to the back-and-forth. Rarity's hoof was still stroking her jaw, which was much more fun. A few minutes later, Mrs Cake arrived with the food, and they discussed lighter subjects while they ate. Taking the plates away, she shot a grin at Pinkie. Throat tight, Pinkie grinned back. “Dessert is coming right up!” Mrs Cake told them, and vanished into the kitchen. She returned with a very large cake – the product of Pinkie's morning labour. Butterscotch filling and vanilla frosting, topped with cream and almonds and cherries and slices of banana. And text in purple icing: Congratulations Rarity! (I love you) (Do you like it?) Shivering, Pinkie turned to Rarity. “Do you?” she asked. A blur of motion, and Pinkie found herself swaddled in Rarity's forelegs, her face pressed up against Rarity's chest. “Of course I do!” The train clicker-clacked down the track, carriage swaying from side to side. Pinkie sat beside Rarity, while Gummy, mouth clamped to her mane and tail pointing straight upwards, swung back and forth in time with the carriage like a scaled metronome. Every time she thought about the situation – She was with Rarity! Going to Manehatten! – her heart fluttered and she wanted to jump up and leap around the cabin. She refrained, though. The fourteenth time had earned her some gentle chiding about composure, so now she contented herself with wriggling occasionally, which Rarity seemed to appreciate. It had felt like all of Ponyville had been at the station to see them off. Well, she had invited all of Ponyville for a goodbye party after all. All their friends had been supportive – Twilight had even helped her organise the party so she could concentrate on packing. And then, as the party drew to a close in the dimming afternoon, the train had arrived. The engineer wished he could have joined in – Pinkie had asked him – but he had a timetable to keep. Everything was perfect. Almost. Rarity cooed through the bars of the cat carrier: “Come on, sweetheart. Cheer up for mommy, okay?” Opalescence grumbled in response and, tail raised, turned to point her rear at the bars. Pinkie stifled a giggle. Rarity sighed and turned to Pinkie. “I don't know what has got into her today. Normally she's such a good girl when it comes to travelling.” “It's okay!” said Pinkie. “Soon we'll be in Manehattan and she can have loads of fun running about and playing with balls of string in our hotel!” She frowned. “There are gonna be balls of string in out hotel room, right?” “I don't think they come with the furniture, no,” said Rarity. “Oh,” said Pinkie. Pouting, she looked down. “But I'm sure they shall get some if I ask nicely at the front desk.” Rarity leaned across and kissed Pinkie's nose. “Don't worry, my love. I'm going to do my best to make this perfect for both of us.” Pinkie smiled and put her head against Rarity's shoulder. Then she jumped up and bounded across the cabin. Gummy opened his mouth halfway through her motion, fell from her mane, and landed on Opalescence's carrier, eliciting a hiss from within. Pinkie looked out the window. Sleepers and trees flickered past. “We're still moving,” she told Rarity. Rarity nodded. “What's the hotel gonna be like?” asked Pinkie, turning from the window. “I mean, apart from not having free string for everypony.” “We had a very generous budget for accommodation.” said Rarity. Her eyes began to shine with that glimmer that always came whenever she was talking about something glamorous. “I managed to get us two rooms in l'Hôtel Attraction!” She paused to think. “Or perhaps it's just Hotel Attraction, without the accent. Either way, it is the most splendid example of earth pony architecture right now.” “Oh, okay. Sounds fun!” said Pinkie. “You … have heard it, haven't you?” Pinkie searched her memory. “Um …” Smiling, Rarity shook her head. “It's a wonderful building. Flowing, whimsical, colourful, and oh-so-beautiful, no matter what those stuffy old Canterlot critics say. And it looks like nothing else in Manehattan – it's complete unique!” She stood and trotted across to the window beside Pinkie. “Rather like you, really,” she said with a contented sigh. “Oh, sweetheart, there are many beautiful things in Equestria, and I'm going to show them all to you.” She nuzzled Pinkie. “I'm so happy to have you here with me.” Pinkie luxuriated in the contact. Rarity's perfume smelt of roses today, and being near her made Pinkie's heart feel like melted chocolate. (She made a mental note to eat some melted chocolate as soon as she could when they got to Manehattan.) Still, there was something she need to ask. “Hey, Rares?” “What is it, sweetheart?” Pinkie chewed her lip. “Why do you like me?” She felt Rarity stiffen, then pull back. “What do you mean? Why wouldn't I like you?” “I'm not, like, a prince or super famous or one of those really fancy-looking ponies you see pictures of in the newspaper.” Rarity's expression softened. “Ah,” she said. “I see. Well, let me assure you, Pinkie, you needn't worry about a thing. You don't need to be heir to anything. You're sweet and generous and uncomplicated. Does that answer you question?” Pinkie nodded. “Good. Now come here.” When Pinkie looked out of the window, she could see the tallest spires and and ornamentations of Manehatten's skyline peeping up over the horizon. Author's Note Been a while, ain't it? Life is such a pest sometimes. Worry not, though. I've got another chapter ready to go next month, and chapter four is on its way. HotelFrivolity Hotel Hotel Attraction – without the accent – was big. Pinkie had been able to see the top of the building from the other side of Manehatten, a lone curve against a sea of rectangles. And now, standing here in the plaza with its giant pillars, the front of the building just seemed to go up and up and up and … “Woah, there!” said Rarity, barely catching Pinkie as she toppled backwards. “Yes, it very impressive, I know, but please be careful.” “Oops,” said Pinkie, with a giggle. “Sorry! I guess I got a bit carried away there.” “It's perfectly all right, dear. It's just that I would hate to see you hurt yourself on our first day here.” Rarity looked at a bellhop who was cantering over to them at a fair pace. “Ah, here we go. Yoohoo! Over here, my good stallion!” She gestured to the small mountain of luggage behind her, where the taxi had dropped her off. “We'll be on floor fourteen, room eight. Thank you so much.” Turning back to Pinkie for a moment but not lowering her voice, she continued: “Such a strong stallion, see?” And back again: “Here, please take this.” Seeing Rarity tipping the bellhop, Pinkie felt an urge to do the same. She wouldn't want Rarity to think she was being ungenerous. “Oh, wait. Here!” she said, rifling through her mane. Rarity and bellhop both stared at her. The first thing Pinkie found in her mane was a rubber chicken, which she flung at him. “Take it. Take it!” The bellhop managed to get over his bewilderment long enough to catch the rubber chicken and stuff it into one of his pockets. Then, after a nervous glance from side to side, he went back to gathering Rarity's luggage. “A … good try,” said Rarity. “But perhaps we need to work just a little on your finesse.” “Ooh, yeah, that sounds like fun!” said Pinkie. She looked ahead at the hotel's giant archway, and bounding forward, continued: “I wanna see what's it's like inside. Whee!” Halfway there, she stopped and turned to Rarity. “What's finesse?” Rarity froze for a moment, frowning, chewing her lip. Then she broke into a laugh, shaking her head. “Oh, Pinkie,” she said. There – job done. Grinning, Pinkie continued onwards. But really, what was finesse? It might be something important to Rarity. She would have to look it up. The foyer of Hotel Attraction had made Rarity swoon a lot and gush more, and even at the reception desk she had insisting on pointing out what she called “naturalistic details on the gilt catenary arches” above them, until the receptionist hemmed for a third time and nodded to indicate the line forming behind her. “Oh!” said Rarity, blushing. “I'm so so sorry. I just got a little caught up in it all. It really is a wonderful creation we're staying in, isn't it?” “Yes. Yes, it is,” said the receptionist without even the littlest hint of wonder on her face. “Now if you could appreciate it after you've signed in, I'm sure we'd all be grateful.” While Rarity signed in, Pinkie stared at the arches. They were super beautiful, she was sure – Rarity had said so after all – but still, it would be awfully difficult to get decorations all the way up there, even with a party cannon, and she wondered if these ponies would even appreciate it – “Come along!” Rarity took Pinkie's hoof mid-thought and led her away from the desk. She wasn't smiling. “Rares?” asked Pinkie tentatively. “What is it?” said Rarity, still trotting. “Are you okay?” Rarity stopped and looked at Pinkie. “I believe so. I mean, I …” She frowned. “But you were being all chatty and happy and now you're not.” Rarity snorted. Then her gaze softened, and Pinkie relaxed. “Oh, sweetheart,” said Rarity. “You needn't worry about that. I'm just a little peeved about how boorishly that receptionist was acting when everything was going so well. And … I could hardly rebuke her, could I?” She sighed. “I was at fault too.” “So?” “Excuse me?” Inside, Pinkie quailed at Rarity's expression, but she kept her smile on anyway. “You were having fun! And even if she got peeved – but I didn't notice at all so maybe you just thought she was and really she was … uh, where was I? Oh, yeah, she even if she totally was, it's all finished now and she's happy enough – look!” Pinkie waved at the receptionist, who didn't wave back but didn't look angry anyway, so that was okay. “ – and you were having fun and you're in a building you love! So so so: So?” Finishing her lecture and nearly out of air, Pinkie took a deep breath. “You're right,” said Rarity, smiling at last. “Dear me. And I was about to let something silly like that ruin my day. Or hour, at least. However do you do it, my love?” “Do what?” “Not let it get to you.” “Oh,” said Pinkie. “I dunno?” Rarity smiled even more and took her hoof again, more softly this time. “Shall we get going, then?” The lift, like everything else in the building, was super pretty, with gratings shaped like a mass of vines and a colourful carpet showing a bunch of grapes. Bouncing lightly on her hooves, Pinkie peered out through windows of uneven glass that made everything going past all wobbly. It would have looked even more fun if it wasn't just the inside of a lift shaft on the other side. The lift operator was a young stallion with a very neat and very uncomfortable-looking uniform. He accepted Pinkie's “Hello!” and hoof-shaking with barely a wince. Unlike the receptionist, he seemed very interested in the building, and after asking for their destination, spent most of the ascent talking with Rarity about green fillies or filly greens or something like that. While she talked, Rarity stroked her rear hoof against Pinkie's cannon, and by the time they reached the floor, Pinkie was struggling to keep her tail down. “Here we are, ladies!” said the operator, opening the door. “Room eight is just down that way, on your left. You have a pleasant evening now!” He smiled at Pinkie and smiled more at Rarity. “Thanks!” said Pinkie, bounding out of the lift, then stopping to wait for Rarity. Behind her, she heard: “We will! Thank you so much. Here, take this, I insist!” Pinkie froze. Oh dear. She had forgotten to give him anything. Was she being ungenerous? She put the issue out of her mind and out on a smile for Rarity as she came up the corridor. “Now,” said Rarity, as they reached the room. “Seeing as how you felt on our first night, I thought it prudent to get a room with two single beds.” Horn aglow, she unlocked and opened the door. “And we can always push them together should you feel comfortable enough to … I mean, not that I'm trying to pressure you into doing anything, of course!” The room was the same wash of colours and high class pretty things that Pinkie was getting used to by now, but was smaller, more intimate, more like Carousel Boutique, and smelt of clean linen rather than perfume. Pinkie felt a sudden urge to gallop forward and jump on the closest bed, so she did, untucking the perfectly-tucked sheets and sliding them off-kilter.. It was soft but not too soft and nice and springy too. “I … trust that's okay?” said Rarity. Pinkie turned round, untidying the sheets further, and took a moment to recall what Rarity had said. “Oh! You did that just for me? Oh, Rares, that's so totally super nice! I ...” She felt a bit of a lump in her throat. “Look out!” she cried, leaping across the room and bounding into Rarity to hug her. Rarity had just enough time to let out a squeal, and the two of them rolled back out into the corridor, ending up against the far wall with Rarity lying on her back beneath Pinkie. “I'm so, so glad you remembered, and oh, really, I am, and thank you!” Pinkie continued, dabbing at her eyes with the tip of her mane. “It's nothing, really,” said Rarity from the floor. “I just thought you'd be happier that way. Shall … ” She glanced up and down the corridor. “ … Shall we go inside before somepony sees us?” “But that's totally why it's not nothing! Doing stuff to make other ponies happier – that's like the most important thing there is! And when it's about things like that it's even more most important!” “Um. Pinkie?” “Oopsie! Sorry!” Pinkie jumped up and bounded back into the room. “Let's jump on the beds again!” “I think I'll pass on that one,” said Rarity, closing the door behind her. She walked up to Pinkie and kissed her nose. “You go ahead though, sweetheart. Just … try not to trouble the ponies below us, okay?” She trotted over to Opalescence's carrier and tugged open the door, getting a grumpy mew from within. “Okie dokie!” Pinkie jumped as softly as she could. Something green bounced beside her hooves as she did so. “Ooh, a mint!” She unwrapped it as quickly as she could and gobbled it down. “Mmm, minty! So whatcha wanna do tonight? I saw all those awesome colourful thingies from the taxi, so I bet they're really fun, what do you think?” Rarity sat watching her on the other bed with Opalescence beside her, scritching her cheek with the tip of a hoof. “What are they?” Pinkie shrugged. “I dunno. They just look fun!” “Because they're colourful?” “Yeah!” “Well, I suppose that's as good a reason as any.” Rarity petted Opalescence, who was now lying stretched on the bed, purring. “I'm afraid I can't stay awake for too long. I have my first meeting with some of the senior Flaxseed ponies tomorrow morning, and it's absolutely essential that I feel and be at my best. You can entertain yourself for a while, can't you? Oh, what am I saying? Of course you can!” “Yep!” “We still need to get dinner,” Rarity said. “I would love for us to eat out at Falabella's, but in all the excitement it slipped my mind to make a reservation, so that will have to wait until another night.” She stopped and looked up at Pinkie. “You would like eating there, wouldn't you?” “Of course I would! I love eating!” said Pinkie. She stopped jumping and let the bedsprings bounce her about. Most of the bedsheet was lying in a heap beside the bed. “These places are often formal, sweetheart. Are you sure it wouldn't make you feel uncomfortable?” “Nope!” “No, you aren't sure; or no, you wouldn't feel uncomfortable?” The bouncing had died down. Pinkie shrugged and flopped down on the bed, knocking the remainder of the quilt off. “Let's do it! It'll make you happy, so it'll make me happy!” Rarity smiled. “Okay. I'm glad. Now, as for tonight …” “You could eat your mint!” said Pinkie. Rarity looked at her pillow and nodded. “I certainly could. But that won't take all night.” She broke into a conspiratorial grin. “So I suggest we get a delightfully classless takeaway. Then we can go and investigate the 'colourful things'. How does that sound, my love?” Pinkie nodded hard enough to start the bedsprings bouncing again. “In that case, shall we get ready?” Author's Note Coming up the next chapter: Some actual plot! ... No, not like that.
CelebrationFrivolity Celebration Pinkie scampered down the dimly lit road, chill winter air rushing past her, bouncing a little on every eighth step, mind a flurry of anticipation. She had wanted to be away earlier, but work at Sugarcube Corner had kept her. Three hours and twenty-four minutes earlier Rarity would have received a telegram, which would have said one of two things. Either she would be happy and need somepony to celebrate with, or she would be – how awful! – miserable and need somepony to cheer her up. No matter what the outcome, Pinkie had to be at Carousel Boutique. A friend's happiness depended on it. She hammered on the door as soon as she arrived, loud enough to make ponies in nearby houses to peer out their windows. “I'm coming, I'm coming! Don't worry!” called Rarity from within. Pinkie stood waiting, buzzing a little, hope and worry coiled around her throat. If she didn't find out soon, she might explode. The door opened, bathing Pinkie in warmth and light and joy, and there stood Rarity, backlit from within. Her expression was unreadable in the shadow, but her stance was cheerful and confident, her ears up, head cocked slightly. “Pinkie! Oh, my. Come in, come in! To what do I owe the pleasure, my dear?” Pinkie pronked into the room. “Hi Rarity! Didja get it? Well, didja? Didja?” Rarity closed the door. Her smile grew. “I did indeed!” she said. Her composure wavered, then shattered, and she leapt up and down on her hooves. “I did! I so did! Look!” She galloped across the room, picked up a slip of paper with her aura and sent it flying into Pinkie's mane. “Oh dear. I do apologise! I may be just the slightest bit overexcited.” Pinkie searched through her mane for a moment and, with a clink of glass, retrieved the telegram, and read: Dear Ms. Rarity, Yes. Designs perfect. Negotiations open next week in Manehattan. Further details and formal request to follow by mail. Flaxseed Co-operative “Ooh,” said Pinkie Pie. “Fancy!” “I'm going to Manehattan!” said Rarity with a little squeal. “I'll get to walk down Morgan Boulevard, sit in the warmth sipping a sidecar or a daiquiri! I'll be at the highest of social events in East Riding! I'll be working with some of the most influential ponies in the business! I'll … Wait. Pinkie, what are you keeping in your mane?” “Oh, oh, I know this one!” said Pinkie. “A spool of cotton, a rubber chicken, some ice, some spearmint chews for Gummy, a –” “No, no, none of those. Something made of glass, I think.” “That's just the champagne I got to celebrate, silly!” Pinkie pulled a bottle from her mane and offered it to Rarity. Smile growing and eyes glistening, Rarity inspected the bottle. Yes! She was impressed. “You got this for me?” she said. “And it's vintage too! How did you ever … ? Pinkie, darling, wait right there! I'm going to get some flutes. We absolutely must have this right away!” Calmer now, but still with a jig in her step which made her tail bounce, she trotted over to the kitchen. Pinkie watched her all the way. Soon they were settled on the floor with a glass each and the foaming bottle beside them. “I'm so pleased you came by,” began Rarity. “I was going to tell the girls about it tomorrow at lunch, but to have you drop by was such a nice surprise.” “Aw, no biggie! I was just there in the kitchen baking away and singing when it hit me – 'Rarity is getting her telegram today!' – and so I knew I had to come over to see if you got accepted, and then I realised I had to get some champagne to have if you did, but I had some champagne I bought earlier just in case, and –” “Darling, take a breath between sentences, remember? I don't want you passing out again.” “Can do!” Pinkie Pie took several deep breaths. Then she realised she had forgotten to drink any of her champagne and emptied the glass in one draught. The bubbles stung her throat, and she shivered. “Pinkie!” chided Rarity. “We drink in sips.” She topped up Pinkie's glass. “Oh, yeah. Oops.” Rarity flashed Pinkie a grin which make her breath catch in her throat. “But since it's your champagne, I think we can overlook the occasional minor breach of etiquette.” Rarity downed her own glass, remaining elegant throughout, and then refilled it. “You've been dropping by quite often lately,” she continued. “Any reason? There isn't anything on your mind, is there?” Pinkie fumbled her glass and splashed champagne all over her muzzle. “Anything on my mind? Nope! Not at all, no sir. I … Have I been here too much? I'm not annoying you, am I? I can try and stop it if you want.” “No! Never in a million years would I ask you to stop coming here. Hold on, let me get that for you –” Rarity dabbed at Pinkie's muzzle with a handkerchief. “– I like your company. I just wanted to make sure there was nothing else on your mind.” “Nuhuh. I'm peachy! Peachy as a peach. A pink, fluffy peach with streamers and glitter.” “I think I'll stick with my peaches normal and … uh … peach,” said Rarity. And, more quietly: “My ponies, however, I'm quite happy to have pink and fluffy and bedecked with streamers.” “Good! 'Cause otherwise I'd have to go and dye my mane or something, and then I might get mistaken for a different pony, and everypony would be wondering where Pinkie had gone, and I'd be trying to tell them, but soon some rich and mysterious pony would mistake me for his long-lost niece. And then things would get complicated!” “Yes,” said Rarity. “Very true.” Ears pinned, she looked away and gave a very slight sigh. Pinkie's throat tightened. Had her digression annoyed Rarity. Oh, foolish, foalish, silly pony. “You all right, Rares?” she asked, voice softer. “Hm? Yes, yes, I'm fine. Don't worry, dear.” “Hey,” said Pinkie, peering at the telegram and trying to engage Rarity again. “Why does it say 'negotiations open next week'? Don't you already have the contract?” “Oh, no no no. Not at all.” Rarity perked up again. “The co-operative comes from a very traditionalist Earth pony clan. Reputation and social connections are a big thing for them – originally it was to protect them from being manipulated by richer unicorns during the early days of Equestria. Obviously that's not relevant now, but the traditions are still there, so before anypony gets into a close association with them, they have to spend some time building relationships within the co-operative. “I'll spend a month in Manehattan talking designs, potential clients, manufacturing methods, that sort of thing. But – and this is the important part – I'll be attending several important social events. Purely for business reasons, I assure you. “In short, all I need to do to actually get the contract is what I already do by second nature: Deftly manoeuvre the currents of reputation, alliance, and status, and generally charm the horseshoes off of everypony!” She refilled Pinkie's and her nearly empty glasses. “Pardon me if this is intrusive, but shouldn't you already know this? If I'm not mistaken, the rock farming communities of East Riding are mostly associated with the co-operative. You did grow up on a rock farm there, didn't you?” “Yep!” Pinkie nodded. “But I was just a little pink filly when I left. You know when you're eating a delicious trifle and you think to yourself 'ohmigosh this is so super delicious!' because the cream and the custard and the jelly go together so well and it's just the best thing ever?” “ … Yes?” said Rarity Pinkie took a gulp of champagne. “Well, my mom and my dad and me aren't really like the cream and the custard and the jelly. We don't go well together. Or form a tasty treat when placed in a bowl!” Rarity's eyes widened. “Oh, Pinkie,” she said. She raised her hoof to Pinkie's face and brushed a few strands of her mane back. Pinkie's heart leapt at the touch. “I know how that feels,” Rarity continued. And, without her accent for a moment, “Boy, do I ever.” Pinkie felt a lump rising in her throat. She took Rarity's hoof and slowly moved it aside. “It's okay,” she said. “I'm not sad about it. I don't argue with them … We just don't talk much. You don't need to worry about me.” Rarity smiled, her hoof still resting against Pinkie's. “I think I will anyway. Just in case.” She looked down. “More champagne?” Pinkie's head was fuzzed, and her bounce was softened, but she nodded anyway. Rarity refilled the glasses. Even her aura was beautiful, Pinkie realised. “Hey!” said Pinkie. “How about some music?” She jumped up. “We're celebrating! We need to be all dancey, not all mopey!” “Quite true!” said Rarity. She downed half her glass. “Well? You have a couple of LPs stashed away somewhere near here, surely?” “Oh, Rarity.” Pinkie chuckled. “Of course I do! But … it's your celebration. You're the celebree! It should be your music.” “Well, if you say so,” said Rarity. “Hold on, let me just …” She tried to stand, stumbled, and Pinkie grabbed her hoof to stop her from falling. “Oh, thank you! How embarrassing.” “Not at all, miss!” Pinkie doffed an imaginary top hat. Rarity stifled a squeal and ended up giggling instead. Swaying, she trotted across the boutique, pulled aside a section of carpet, and opened a hidden hatch. “I keep my best records down here,” she explained, “where Sweetie Belle won't ruin them.” Horn glowing, she pulled out several discs. “Any preference? How about some jazz?” “Sure!” said Pinkie. She was too busy watching Rarity's rear to worry too much about the choice. Moments later the sounds of saxophone and piano flowed from the phonograph. Rarity walked back to Pinkie. Her mane was slightly off kilter, a twang of disorder in a sea of engineered beauty. “Hey!” said Pinkie. “Let's dance! Come on, it'll be super fun!” “Oh, Pinkie.” Rarity giggled. “That's not how you ask! I'm a lady. You need to ask me properly!” “Oh yeah,” said Pinkie. She rubbed her chin. “Uhhh …” Rarity rolled her eyes. “Offer me your hoof. No, right hoof. Yes! Now say, 'May I have –'” Rarity was cut off by a small burp. “Oh my,” she said, looking away. “I do beg your pardon.” “Oh, oh, shall we compare? How about –” Rarity was staring at her. Pinkie stopped herself. Her right hoof was still in the air. “Oops! I mean: May I have this dance, Miss Rarity?” Rarity took her hoof. “I'd love to.” “Whee!” Pinkie danced, and Rarity yelped. “Pinkie!” “What?” “Slow down! Please?” “Okie dokie!” The ponies danced, stumbling and swaying and out of time with the music, stopping on occasion to to drink some more champagne – this time directly from the bottle. Mane growing more dishevelled with each swing, Rarity looked into Pinkie's eyes, and Pinkie found herself getting bolder and more exploratory with her touch, and pulling Rarity closer. Pinkie couldn't tell how long they had been dancing – it might've been minutes or hours – when Rarity's hooves slid out from under her. She tumbled forward, into Pinkie's chest, and Pinkie sank to the floor with her. “Oh, uh, sorry,” said Rarity, muffled. She pulled back. “S'okay,” said Pinkie. “I …” Pinkie swallowed. Rarity's face there in front of her, inches away, a stray strand of purple hanging across Rarity's nose. She felt Rarity's warm breath on her muzzle, saw Rarity's gaze moving from her eyes to her mouth and back again. Rarity was right there. She had to. She just had to. But what if Rarity didn't like it? It might make her retreat, might ruin the friendship. It might make Rarity unhappy. And that was something Pinkie hated to think about. But she couldn't let the opportunity slip by! Seizing opportunities for happiness no matter how slim was the whole meaning behind Pinkamena Diane Pie. But … Rarity kissed Pinkie Pie. Rarity's nose brushing against her. Rarity's lips against her own, soft and warm and wet, tasting of champagne. Rarity's perfume, sweet and subtle, as she pulled away. Oh. “That is what you were going to do, isn't it?” said Rarity softly. “You froze, so I decided to take the initiative.” Her eyes widened. “That … is what you wanted, right?” Pinkie tried to answer, but nothing came to mind. Her heart was hammering. She leant forward, brushed the errant strand of Rarity's mane aside, and kissed her. “Yep!” she said when the shock has subsided. “I wanted to but I didn't, and then you did instead, so it's okay, and then I did, and it was so fun! Wanna go again?” Rarity smiled. “Hush, and kiss me again, you silly, impetuous creature!” They spent the next few minutes in each other's arms kissing and nuzzling and stroking and occasionally nipping. When Rarity's hoof sidled downwards, Pinkie stopped her as gently as she could. “Nuhuh,” she said. “It's … uh … can't ice the cakes before they … um .. come out the oven?” Her cheeks warmed, and she looked down. Rarity put a hoof under Pinkie's chin and lifted till Pinkie met her gaze. “It's okay, darling,” she said. “We don't have to rush.” She kissed Pinkie again. A few minutes later, as wonderful as the moment was, Pinkie started to get bored. She extricated herself from Rarity's hold and, after a last nuzzle, jumped up and stretched. “Hey,” she began. “Mhmm?” said Rarity, still sprawled on the floor with her eyes closed. “Woohoo! I'm so super glad I came round and celebrated with you!” She pronked around Rarity giggling. “I'm glad too,” murmured Rarity. “Might I ask, though: How can you go jumping about after all that champagne? I can barely …” “My head is all fuzzy inside, but that's okay 'cause it's all fuzzy outside too, so there's balance, and that means I don't fall over!” “Oh … Well, fair enough, then.” From within the balanced fuzz, a small, chill worry flew out and glanced off the inside of Pinkie's skull. Not now! Worries, worries, worries. Always intruding on fun. She stopped pronking. “Rarity?” “Yes?” “Do you wanna have some more super fun celebrations later? We could celebrate when you finish a new dress, or when the postman comes, or when Opalescence is a good kitty and washes herself, or when –” “Yes! Yes, Pinkie, you needn't concern yourself. This isn't a one-off, I assure you. Unless you want it to be, of course.” “Ohhh, no no no no no no no no! I really want to celebrate again! And maybe we can even … celebrate more energetically.” “I think I should like that,” said Rarity. “Like with balloons and cake!” “I, uh … suppose so?” “Woo!” As the night progressed, they talked of small nothings, cuddled some more, and finished off the champagne. Pinkie suggested getting more, but Rarity, summoning a few shreds of sense, suggested they settle for water. They both had to be up at a reasonably hour tomorrow, she reminded Pinkie, and look halfway presentable for lunch. After some chiding from Rarity, Pinkie had reluctantly given up trying to blow bubbles with her water and settled for just drinking it. “I was thinking,” said Rarity, stifling a yawn. “Given that I will going away to work with a traditionalist Earth pony group, I may need a … cultural guide, shall we say? My etiquette is perfect, of course, but even so …” “I know! How about Applejack? She's really knowledgeable about Earth pony culture! I bet she –” Seeing Rarity's expression, Pinkie stopped herself. “I mean, um, I could be your guide! 'Cause I'm an Earth pony! Can I be your guide, Rares?” “I would love you to be my guide, Pinkie Pie.” Rarity yawned again. “Yes, the two of us together in Manehattan for a month. That would be lovely,” she murmured, leaning forward to kiss Pinkie's nose. Pinkie wanted to leap up and dance around the room again, but she didn't for fear she might disturb Rarity. And she was feeling a little tired herself, though she didn't want to admit it – what if she went to bed and woke up tomorrow to find it was all a dream? Wouldn't that be awful? Pinkie jumped up, almost spilling her water, and twirled twice. “Sweetie … sweetie, what are you doing?” asked Rarity. “Just checking to see if anything changed!” said Pinkie. She dropped to the floor again. “Nothing did, so it's okay!” Rarity blinked, then shrugged. “Good,” she said quietly. “So long as you're happy.” “Super happy! Still!” Smiling, Rarity nodded. “I think it may be time for bed. A lady must get her beauty sleep, after all. Especially when she finds herself seeing somepony.” Pinkie stood first and helped Rarity to her hooves. “Would you like to join me, Pinkie?” said Rarity as Pinkie led her upstairs. Pinkie imagined spending the night beside Rarity, holding her, being held, and joy flickered through her. She wanted to jump, to leap, to bound. She wanted to break out a pink and white banner emblazoned “YES!” in giant capitals. But … “Ohhh, I can't! I want to, but … I need to be back home tonight or else Gummy might get hungry and lonely. And what if being hungry and lonely makes him all evil? Like Nightmare Gums or something! I gotta make sure.” Rarity was silent the rest of the way up the stairs. As they entered her bedroom, she said, “All right. I understand.” She gave Pinkie a final nuzzle, and then retreated. Leaving Carousel Boutique, Pinkie smiled and smiled. She bounced even more than she had on her way there. Rarity liked her! Rarity liked her! Not some boring old Canterlot aristocrat, no. Her. Pinkie. And she was such a good kisser. Just recalling it made Pinkie shiver. Her mane still held some of Rarity's scent. Rarity was a good kisser, she smelt wonderful, and … And and and and and she liked Pinkie! But why? She stopped for a moment and shivered again, this time at the freezing air. Then she pushed a tangle of her mane in front of her muzzle. “Brrrrr!” she said to herself, breaking into a gallop. “Brr brr brr! Silly Pinkie, waiting about the cold like this! You'll catch your death just in time for going away with Rarity!” Back at Sugarcube Corner, her bed was warm and snuggly. But empty, And not as warm or snuggly as Rarity's bed would be right now. Pinkie rolled over and found herself face to face with Gummy. Gummy blinked. His breath still smelt of tinned protein paste, and after wrinkling her nose, Pinkie popped a spearmint chew in his mouth. She had previously considered getting him a toothbrush, but ended up breaking down in giggles every time she was halfway to the shop. “What do you think?” she asked Gummy, rolling onto her back and holding Gummy in front of her face. “Can I be her prince? Why does she want a prince who's pink and squidgy and bit chubby? Will she mind if I don't want to celebrate straight away?” Gummy blinked. “I guess so,” said Pinkie. “But what if …” Gummy blinked. “You're right!” said Pinkie. “I just have to ask her, and then it'll all be okay.” She pulled Gummy close to her chest and cuddled as hard as she dared. His eyes went askew. “Aw, Gummy. You're best friend a squidgy pink prince could ask for!” She tucked Gummy in beside her turned the bedside lamp off. In the dark she whispered to herself. “Once upon a time a little pink filly walked from the gates of a rock farm. She was as happy as happy could be, and she wanted to spread that happiness to every pony she met …” And sleep took her before she could go any further. Author's Note So -- my first foray into shipping! (What have you done to me, pony fandom?) And here, since I insist on trying to be original, here we have: 1. Rather than a story about getting together, a story about what happens just after you get together. 2. In contrast to the Pinkie-is-a-sexpot cliché, Rarity taking the lead as the confident one. 3. An author who wishes he wasn't so busy&tired&borderline-anhedonic right now, so he could writer a better note. Have fun, guys.
LunchFrivolity Lunch Pinkie, sitting outside Carousel Boutique the following day, adjusted her hat. It had been a busy morning. Waking early and, despite the twinge of a hangover, setting about baking right away. Then explaining to Mrs Cake why the icing said what did. Then rooting through her hidey holes for an outfit. Then, finally coming out here so Rarity wouldn't have to walk to Sugarcube Corner alone. Pinkie had decided to give her dinner suit another spin. It really was a very nice outfit, fitting perfectly, dark and smooth, and despite her antics, it was without crease or crumple. Pinkie didn't know much about elegance, but if anything was elegant, this was. And, most importantly, it was the sort of thing Rarity liked. Unless she objected to wearing the same outfit twice. Or perhaps Pinkie had messed up some detail, or was wearing it out of season, whatever that meant. But surely Rarity wouldn't mind, would she? Pinkie was considering hiding it behind the nearest tree when Rarity, wearing a powder-blue ruffled dress, opened the door. Pinkie put on her biggest nothing's-wrong grin. “Hi Rarity! Hi hi hi! Are you ready? Are you? Today is going to be so fun, I can tell. I bet Twilight will have a banner and everything!” “Good morning. Oh my, you look spectacular! You're here to … escort me to lunch?” Pinkie nodded. “How delightful! Well, then, lead the way.” Rarity offered her hoof, and, suppressing a squee, Pinkie took it, leading her out. When Rarity had closed the door she peered closely at Pinkie's chest, brow ever so slightly furrowed. Pinkie quailed inside but kept smiling. “Hold still for just one moment,” said Rarity. Horn glowing, she tugged at Pinkie's bow tie. “There we go! Perfect. Come along, then, we mustn't keep the others waiting.” Chiding aside, Rarity seemed happy enough to trot along at a leisurely pace while Pinkie pronked beside – and occasionally around – her. “Oh, they're going to be so pleased for you!” said Pinkie. “I can tell! They'll be all 'woo-hoo Rarity' and then I will be all like 'woo-hoo Rarity' too. Oh, and then they'll all be pleased for us too!” A thought hit her. She froze. “They will, won't they?” Rarity took her hoof. “Sweetheart, why ever wouldn't they be pleased for us?” “'Cause what if they think I'm stealing you from them? Or that we'll spend too much time together and forget about them? Or or or or – what about Spike? I don't want to upset him. Or what if –” “Pinkie, I assure you we've nothing to worry about. These are our friends, remember. I've got myself flustered more often than I care to think about, worrying how they might look upon me and my behaviour. And every time they have shown me how silly I was being. I know I can rely on my friends not to judge me for things like who I choose to court. And I'm sure you know that too.” Rarity raised an eyebrow. “Normally I'm the one worrying what other ponies will think of me, and you're the one blithely dancing through social interactions. Are you sure there's nothing else troubling you?” “Oh, I don't mind if anypony thinks I'm silly,” explained Pinkie. “'Cause I am silly! But this is super-duper important, and I don't want them to think I'm being silly about it.” She smiled a little. “Also I don't want to upset anypony … I want to make ponies smile, not make them frown.” Rarity leant forward and gave Pinkie a quick kiss on the nose. “Together, we will make them smile. I am absolutely sure of it.” “And Spike?” “Spike is very sweet, but I have no romantic interest in him. He had to learn that eventually. And I suppose sooner is better than later. Perhaps after this he can move his attentions elsewhere.” Rarity's face lit up. “Ooh! Perhaps I could see if there's any spark between him and Sweetie Belle! Wouldn't that be adorable? And much better than having to worry about her vanishing behind bushes with colts in a few years.” “Oh, uh, yeah … that would be better for her,” said Pinkie. “I knew you'd agree! Now come along, we're almost late as it is!” They started walking again. “Rares?” Pinkie spoke more softly than usual. “Yes?” “I know lots about being friends and making friends because I've done it so much, but this, us … I don't know so much. And I really really want it to work and make us happy.” “I do too, my dear. And it may not always be easy, but I assure that together we shall chart a course.” They continued onwards. “There you are, Pinkie! I thought you'd be here already,” said Twilight as Pinkie entered Sugarcube Corner. She was sat at a table alongside Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and Fluttershy. Above them, hung from the rafters, was a furled banner, its message hidden. Rarity walked in after Pinkie. “Hello, girls,” she announced, beaming. “How delightful to see you all.” She and Pinkie sat beside one another at the table. “Well, isn't this lovely?” “Well, hurry up. Don't keep us waiting!” said Rainbow Dash. “What did they say?” Applejack rolled her eyes. “Give her a chance,” she said to Dash. Ignoring them, Twilight leaned forward. “Well?” she said to Rarity. Rarity pulled the telegram from out from within her dress and brandished it. “I –” The other ponies all went quiet “ – was accepted! I'll be liaising with Flaxseed Co-operative ” “That's great news! I knew it!” Twilight smiled, and with her aura unfurled the banner above them to reveal CONGRATULATIONS, RARITY in perfectly even letters. “Well done, sugarcube!” “Awesome!” “I'm so happy for you.” Pinkie grinned at Rarity. “See? I said it, didn't I? Woo-hoo Rarity!” She pulled Rarity in for a hug, and Rarity turned and kissed her lightly. A fraction of a second of shock, of realising this was in front of their friends, then Pinkie kissed her back. When Pinkie turned back, it was to wide eyes, but not shocked expressions. “I suppose there is something else for me to announce,” said Rarity. “Hah, I knew it!” said Dash. “I saw that coming. Didn't I say it?” Rarity's eyes narrowed. “Excuse me?” Pleased as punch that nopony was objecting, Pinkie almost leapt from her seat. “Oh, Dashie, you knew? How clever! You should be the fortune teller while I'm away. I –” A look from Rarity stopped her. “Only 'cause Fluttershy told you,” said Applejack. “Ain't that right?” Fluttershy nodded. “Yeah.” She studied the floor. “Sorry, Rarity. I just thought about how often you mentioned Pinkie Pie during our spa visits, and … ” “Oh, darling, you've nothing to be sorry about,” said Rarity. Looking at Dash: “Some of us, however, could stand to be a little more tactful when telling others how much we know.” Twilight cleared her throat. “Well, then, I guess double congratulations are in order!” After which, she turned to Fluttershy and in a voice Pinkie could barely hear said, “You never told me.” Mrs Cake appeared beside the table before Fluttershy could say anything. “Hello, dears!” she said. “Are you ready for your food now? Oh, before you order too much, I have a rather large surprise for dessert, courtesy of Pinkie Pie!” “Aw, it's nothing much,” said Pinkie. They all ordered. “Only three cupcakes, Pinkie?” asked Mrs. Cake. “My, at this rate you'll be on a diet by the time you get back from Manehattan.” “Ooh, maybe,” said Pinkie. “That might be fun!” Mrs. Cake smiled at her and swished away to the kitchen. “You're going to Manehattan too?” Twilight asked. “Yep,” said Pinkie. “With Rarity!” “Yeah, I gathered that. Won't she be kind of busy?” “Oh, don't worry, darling,” said Rarity. “It'll be fine. No trouble at all.” “I'm gonna be her guide! It'll be so fun!” said Pinkie. Twilight's smile faltered. “Her guide? Are you sure that's a good idea?” “What ever do you mean?” asked Rarity, leaning forward, eyes narrowed. “I … uh … I mean … well ...” “I think what Twilight's tryin' to get at it that bein' Rarity's guide is gonna be a lot of responsibility,” said Applejack. “There are gonna be lots of stuck-up ponies there who mightn't take well to your … normal ways of behavin'. You gotta be ready to handle it, Pinkie.” “Exactly,” said Twilight. Pinkie smiled. “Oh, I am! I'm totally ready. I really am!” She turned to Rarity. “Am I?” “Yes, sweetheart.” Rarity brushed a hoof very gently along Pinkie's jawline. “I have complete confidence in you. You are going to be fine, I'm sure.” She glanced at Applejack. “Though 'stuck-up' is hardly the term I'd use. To be sure, there are high class ponies who are perhaps … less sympathetic than they ought to be, but that's no reason to sling abusive epithets around.” “Epi-whats now?” Pinkie stopped paying attention to the back-and-forth. Rarity's hoof was still stroking her jaw, which was much more fun. A few minutes later, Mrs Cake arrived with the food, and they discussed lighter subjects while they ate. Taking the plates away, she shot a grin at Pinkie. Throat tight, Pinkie grinned back. “Dessert is coming right up!” Mrs Cake told them, and vanished into the kitchen. She returned with a very large cake – the product of Pinkie's morning labour. Butterscotch filling and vanilla frosting, topped with cream and almonds and cherries and slices of banana. And text in purple icing: Congratulations Rarity! (I love you) (Do you like it?) Shivering, Pinkie turned to Rarity. “Do you?” she asked. A blur of motion, and Pinkie found herself swaddled in Rarity's forelegs, her face pressed up against Rarity's chest. “Of course I do!” The train clicker-clacked down the track, carriage swaying from side to side. Pinkie sat beside Rarity, while Gummy, mouth clamped to her mane and tail pointing straight upwards, swung back and forth in time with the carriage like a scaled metronome. Every time she thought about the situation – She was with Rarity! Going to Manehatten! – her heart fluttered and she wanted to jump up and leap around the cabin. She refrained, though. The fourteenth time had earned her some gentle chiding about composure, so now she contented herself with wriggling occasionally, which Rarity seemed to appreciate. It had felt like all of Ponyville had been at the station to see them off. Well, she had invited all of Ponyville for a goodbye party after all. All their friends had been supportive – Twilight had even helped her organise the party so she could concentrate on packing. And then, as the party drew to a close in the dimming afternoon, the train had arrived. The engineer wished he could have joined in – Pinkie had asked him – but he had a timetable to keep. Everything was perfect. Almost. Rarity cooed through the bars of the cat carrier: “Come on, sweetheart. Cheer up for mommy, okay?” Opalescence grumbled in response and, tail raised, turned to point her rear at the bars. Pinkie stifled a giggle. Rarity sighed and turned to Pinkie. “I don't know what has got into her today. Normally she's such a good girl when it comes to travelling.” “It's okay!” said Pinkie. “Soon we'll be in Manehattan and she can have loads of fun running about and playing with balls of string in our hotel!” She frowned. “There are gonna be balls of string in out hotel room, right?” “I don't think they come with the furniture, no,” said Rarity. “Oh,” said Pinkie. Pouting, she looked down. “But I'm sure they shall get some if I ask nicely at the front desk.” Rarity leaned across and kissed Pinkie's nose. “Don't worry, my love. I'm going to do my best to make this perfect for both of us.” Pinkie smiled and put her head against Rarity's shoulder. Then she jumped up and bounded across the cabin. Gummy opened his mouth halfway through her motion, fell from her mane, and landed on Opalescence's carrier, eliciting a hiss from within. Pinkie looked out the window. Sleepers and trees flickered past. “We're still moving,” she told Rarity. Rarity nodded. “What's the hotel gonna be like?” asked Pinkie, turning from the window. “I mean, apart from not having free string for everypony.” “We had a very generous budget for accommodation.” said Rarity. Her eyes began to shine with that glimmer that always came whenever she was talking about something glamorous. “I managed to get us two rooms in l'Hôtel Attraction!” She paused to think. “Or perhaps it's just Hotel Attraction, without the accent. Either way, it is the most splendid example of earth pony architecture right now.” “Oh, okay. Sounds fun!” said Pinkie. “You … have heard it, haven't you?” Pinkie searched her memory. “Um …” Smiling, Rarity shook her head. “It's a wonderful building. Flowing, whimsical, colourful, and oh-so-beautiful, no matter what those stuffy old Canterlot critics say. And it looks like nothing else in Manehattan – it's complete unique!” She stood and trotted across to the window beside Pinkie. “Rather like you, really,” she said with a contented sigh. “Oh, sweetheart, there are many beautiful things in Equestria, and I'm going to show them all to you.” She nuzzled Pinkie. “I'm so happy to have you here with me.” Pinkie luxuriated in the contact. Rarity's perfume smelt of roses today, and being near her made Pinkie's heart feel like melted chocolate. (She made a mental note to eat some melted chocolate as soon as she could when they got to Manehattan.) Still, there was something she need to ask. “Hey, Rares?” “What is it, sweetheart?” Pinkie chewed her lip. “Why do you like me?” She felt Rarity stiffen, then pull back. “What do you mean? Why wouldn't I like you?” “I'm not, like, a prince or super famous or one of those really fancy-looking ponies you see pictures of in the newspaper.” Rarity's expression softened. “Ah,” she said. “I see. Well, let me assure you, Pinkie, you needn't worry about a thing. You don't need to be heir to anything. You're sweet and generous and uncomplicated. Does that answer you question?” Pinkie nodded. “Good. Now come here.” When Pinkie looked out of the window, she could see the tallest spires and and ornamentations of Manehatten's skyline peeping up over the horizon. Author's Note Been a while, ain't it? Life is such a pest sometimes. Worry not, though. I've got another chapter ready to go next month, and chapter four is on its way.
HotelFrivolity Hotel Hotel Attraction – without the accent – was big. Pinkie had been able to see the top of the building from the other side of Manehatten, a lone curve against a sea of rectangles. And now, standing here in the plaza with its giant pillars, the front of the building just seemed to go up and up and up and … “Woah, there!” said Rarity, barely catching Pinkie as she toppled backwards. “Yes, it very impressive, I know, but please be careful.” “Oops,” said Pinkie, with a giggle. “Sorry! I guess I got a bit carried away there.” “It's perfectly all right, dear. It's just that I would hate to see you hurt yourself on our first day here.” Rarity looked at a bellhop who was cantering over to them at a fair pace. “Ah, here we go. Yoohoo! Over here, my good stallion!” She gestured to the small mountain of luggage behind her, where the taxi had dropped her off. “We'll be on floor fourteen, room eight. Thank you so much.” Turning back to Pinkie for a moment but not lowering her voice, she continued: “Such a strong stallion, see?” And back again: “Here, please take this.” Seeing Rarity tipping the bellhop, Pinkie felt an urge to do the same. She wouldn't want Rarity to think she was being ungenerous. “Oh, wait. Here!” she said, rifling through her mane. Rarity and bellhop both stared at her. The first thing Pinkie found in her mane was a rubber chicken, which she flung at him. “Take it. Take it!” The bellhop managed to get over his bewilderment long enough to catch the rubber chicken and stuff it into one of his pockets. Then, after a nervous glance from side to side, he went back to gathering Rarity's luggage. “A … good try,” said Rarity. “But perhaps we need to work just a little on your finesse.” “Ooh, yeah, that sounds like fun!” said Pinkie. She looked ahead at the hotel's giant archway, and bounding forward, continued: “I wanna see what's it's like inside. Whee!” Halfway there, she stopped and turned to Rarity. “What's finesse?” Rarity froze for a moment, frowning, chewing her lip. Then she broke into a laugh, shaking her head. “Oh, Pinkie,” she said. There – job done. Grinning, Pinkie continued onwards. But really, what was finesse? It might be something important to Rarity. She would have to look it up. The foyer of Hotel Attraction had made Rarity swoon a lot and gush more, and even at the reception desk she had insisting on pointing out what she called “naturalistic details on the gilt catenary arches” above them, until the receptionist hemmed for a third time and nodded to indicate the line forming behind her. “Oh!” said Rarity, blushing. “I'm so so sorry. I just got a little caught up in it all. It really is a wonderful creation we're staying in, isn't it?” “Yes. Yes, it is,” said the receptionist without even the littlest hint of wonder on her face. “Now if you could appreciate it after you've signed in, I'm sure we'd all be grateful.” While Rarity signed in, Pinkie stared at the arches. They were super beautiful, she was sure – Rarity had said so after all – but still, it would be awfully difficult to get decorations all the way up there, even with a party cannon, and she wondered if these ponies would even appreciate it – “Come along!” Rarity took Pinkie's hoof mid-thought and led her away from the desk. She wasn't smiling. “Rares?” asked Pinkie tentatively. “What is it?” said Rarity, still trotting. “Are you okay?” Rarity stopped and looked at Pinkie. “I believe so. I mean, I …” She frowned. “But you were being all chatty and happy and now you're not.” Rarity snorted. Then her gaze softened, and Pinkie relaxed. “Oh, sweetheart,” said Rarity. “You needn't worry about that. I'm just a little peeved about how boorishly that receptionist was acting when everything was going so well. And … I could hardly rebuke her, could I?” She sighed. “I was at fault too.” “So?” “Excuse me?” Inside, Pinkie quailed at Rarity's expression, but she kept her smile on anyway. “You were having fun! And even if she got peeved – but I didn't notice at all so maybe you just thought she was and really she was … uh, where was I? Oh, yeah, she even if she totally was, it's all finished now and she's happy enough – look!” Pinkie waved at the receptionist, who didn't wave back but didn't look angry anyway, so that was okay. “ – and you were having fun and you're in a building you love! So so so: So?” Finishing her lecture and nearly out of air, Pinkie took a deep breath. “You're right,” said Rarity, smiling at last. “Dear me. And I was about to let something silly like that ruin my day. Or hour, at least. However do you do it, my love?” “Do what?” “Not let it get to you.” “Oh,” said Pinkie. “I dunno?” Rarity smiled even more and took her hoof again, more softly this time. “Shall we get going, then?” The lift, like everything else in the building, was super pretty, with gratings shaped like a mass of vines and a colourful carpet showing a bunch of grapes. Bouncing lightly on her hooves, Pinkie peered out through windows of uneven glass that made everything going past all wobbly. It would have looked even more fun if it wasn't just the inside of a lift shaft on the other side. The lift operator was a young stallion with a very neat and very uncomfortable-looking uniform. He accepted Pinkie's “Hello!” and hoof-shaking with barely a wince. Unlike the receptionist, he seemed very interested in the building, and after asking for their destination, spent most of the ascent talking with Rarity about green fillies or filly greens or something like that. While she talked, Rarity stroked her rear hoof against Pinkie's cannon, and by the time they reached the floor, Pinkie was struggling to keep her tail down. “Here we are, ladies!” said the operator, opening the door. “Room eight is just down that way, on your left. You have a pleasant evening now!” He smiled at Pinkie and smiled more at Rarity. “Thanks!” said Pinkie, bounding out of the lift, then stopping to wait for Rarity. Behind her, she heard: “We will! Thank you so much. Here, take this, I insist!” Pinkie froze. Oh dear. She had forgotten to give him anything. Was she being ungenerous? She put the issue out of her mind and out on a smile for Rarity as she came up the corridor. “Now,” said Rarity, as they reached the room. “Seeing as how you felt on our first night, I thought it prudent to get a room with two single beds.” Horn aglow, she unlocked and opened the door. “And we can always push them together should you feel comfortable enough to … I mean, not that I'm trying to pressure you into doing anything, of course!” The room was the same wash of colours and high class pretty things that Pinkie was getting used to by now, but was smaller, more intimate, more like Carousel Boutique, and smelt of clean linen rather than perfume. Pinkie felt a sudden urge to gallop forward and jump on the closest bed, so she did, untucking the perfectly-tucked sheets and sliding them off-kilter.. It was soft but not too soft and nice and springy too. “I … trust that's okay?” said Rarity. Pinkie turned round, untidying the sheets further, and took a moment to recall what Rarity had said. “Oh! You did that just for me? Oh, Rares, that's so totally super nice! I ...” She felt a bit of a lump in her throat. “Look out!” she cried, leaping across the room and bounding into Rarity to hug her. Rarity had just enough time to let out a squeal, and the two of them rolled back out into the corridor, ending up against the far wall with Rarity lying on her back beneath Pinkie. “I'm so, so glad you remembered, and oh, really, I am, and thank you!” Pinkie continued, dabbing at her eyes with the tip of her mane. “It's nothing, really,” said Rarity from the floor. “I just thought you'd be happier that way. Shall … ” She glanced up and down the corridor. “ … Shall we go inside before somepony sees us?” “But that's totally why it's not nothing! Doing stuff to make other ponies happier – that's like the most important thing there is! And when it's about things like that it's even more most important!” “Um. Pinkie?” “Oopsie! Sorry!” Pinkie jumped up and bounded back into the room. “Let's jump on the beds again!” “I think I'll pass on that one,” said Rarity, closing the door behind her. She walked up to Pinkie and kissed her nose. “You go ahead though, sweetheart. Just … try not to trouble the ponies below us, okay?” She trotted over to Opalescence's carrier and tugged open the door, getting a grumpy mew from within. “Okie dokie!” Pinkie jumped as softly as she could. Something green bounced beside her hooves as she did so. “Ooh, a mint!” She unwrapped it as quickly as she could and gobbled it down. “Mmm, minty! So whatcha wanna do tonight? I saw all those awesome colourful thingies from the taxi, so I bet they're really fun, what do you think?” Rarity sat watching her on the other bed with Opalescence beside her, scritching her cheek with the tip of a hoof. “What are they?” Pinkie shrugged. “I dunno. They just look fun!” “Because they're colourful?” “Yeah!” “Well, I suppose that's as good a reason as any.” Rarity petted Opalescence, who was now lying stretched on the bed, purring. “I'm afraid I can't stay awake for too long. I have my first meeting with some of the senior Flaxseed ponies tomorrow morning, and it's absolutely essential that I feel and be at my best. You can entertain yourself for a while, can't you? Oh, what am I saying? Of course you can!” “Yep!” “We still need to get dinner,” Rarity said. “I would love for us to eat out at Falabella's, but in all the excitement it slipped my mind to make a reservation, so that will have to wait until another night.” She stopped and looked up at Pinkie. “You would like eating there, wouldn't you?” “Of course I would! I love eating!” said Pinkie. She stopped jumping and let the bedsprings bounce her about. Most of the bedsheet was lying in a heap beside the bed. “These places are often formal, sweetheart. Are you sure it wouldn't make you feel uncomfortable?” “Nope!” “No, you aren't sure; or no, you wouldn't feel uncomfortable?” The bouncing had died down. Pinkie shrugged and flopped down on the bed, knocking the remainder of the quilt off. “Let's do it! It'll make you happy, so it'll make me happy!” Rarity smiled. “Okay. I'm glad. Now, as for tonight …” “You could eat your mint!” said Pinkie. Rarity looked at her pillow and nodded. “I certainly could. But that won't take all night.” She broke into a conspiratorial grin. “So I suggest we get a delightfully classless takeaway. Then we can go and investigate the 'colourful things'. How does that sound, my love?” Pinkie nodded hard enough to start the bedsprings bouncing again. “In that case, shall we get ready?” Author's Note Coming up the next chapter: Some actual plot! ... No, not like that.
