Simple Ways to Get a Stallion off Your Back

by Lilith Evanson

Rating: teen
Tags: Rainbow Dash, Comedy, Rarity, Other, Romance, Applejack, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
Length: 9355

All Applejack wanted to do was finish her chores, help out at the Ponyville Days Festival, and have a small article written about her farm for advertisement. Was that too much to ask? If it involves Rarity and one of her romantic crushes....then yes.

All Applejack wanted was to complete her chores so she could help Rarity and the girls with the Ponyville Days Festival. Maybe even get a little bit of advertisement for Sweet Apple Acres. Unfortunately, anything that involves Rarity will most likely include drama. Applejack soon finds herself hiding from a stalker, traveling writer with an obsessed crush on her and a jealous friend with a stereotypical view of her country life. At the same time, she has to try and keep her relationship with a certain rainbow haired pegasus a secret.

She should have stayed in the chicken coop.

Cover art: Confrontation by RainbowDerp98

Published 2014-03-03 08:00:04 UTC
Last updated 2014-04-02 02:14:16 UTC

One Good Buck to the Face Should Do It

Applejack’s expression hardened. Her back legs tensed. She readied them for a good, solid buck to a hard surface. She squinted and lowered her head, her father’s hat covering her view for a moment. Counting to ten in her mind, Applejack inhaled heavily and closed her eyes. She had to time it just right or else she could seriously hurt herself. She released the air in her lungs with a long exhale and opened her eyes.

Just one, hard kick.

One well aimed slam with her hooves into the annoying, smug, pretentious face of a pony that would not, for the life of her, leave her alone.

Her walk became more of a stomp as she continued to listen to the prattle of the high society stallion following her every step. On and on he went, bragging about things that held no importance to the farm mare but, according to Rarity, had wowed those fancy-schmancy ponies back in Manehatten and Canterlot. For three hours he trailed her like a lost puppy, following her every movement and making unnecessary comments about her town, her farm, and herself.

The remarks made towards her were especially confusing. How in the world does she glisten like a red, juicy apple? Her hair appeared as soft as golden silk? She has a resplendent figure? What the hay did that even mean?

At times, his observations, which seemed to be centered on her, made her uncomfortable and annoyed. Other times, they just seemed down right silly. If she didn’t know any better, she would have believed him to be hitting on her. The thought made her scoff. She definitely wasn't his type. He was the sort of pony who enjoyed the company of mares with style and flair, always in the know from fashion to gossip. She didn't know either and if she did, that information would most likely come from Rarity. Applejack was a simple, country gal, a farmer who worried more about her family and friends then what a celebrity did at a social gathering.

Not to mention he was definitely not her type. She went for rough, strong, independent, loyal fighters who could take her on and still be loving. The type of ponies who could hold her weight and not buckle from the strain. Colorful pegasi with determination in their eyes and strength in their hearts. A pegasus who cares for her farm and family just as much as she does.

Applejack released a small smile, her gaze drifting to the skies in search for a certain cyan pegasus. All around, pegasi busied themselves for the Ponyville Days festival taking place under Rarity’s command. They flew with different assortments of decorations, covering the tops of nearby buildings and trees with streamers, lanterns, and special fabric made by the fashionista herself. However, her pegasus was not among them.

Applejack lowered her head and let out a small sigh. Having Rainbow Dash walking beside her would have been a comfort. It was confusing enough trying to understand the appeal of the stallion behind her. Rainbow’s honest opinion of the traveling pony would have been greatly appreciated. Not to mention she wouldn’t have been afraid to admit loudly how much of an ass he was being.

Rainbow would have also unabashedly encouraged the buck to the face Applejack so desperately wanted to give him.

She shook her head slightly and willed herself to calm down. The image of Rainbow relaxed her, if not made her slightly giddy, but now was not the time to get distracted. She focused her attention back to her irritating situation.

He was just interviewing her for his traveling article. There was no need to get so upset. Besides, bucking him in the face would make matters worse. Not only would she have to deal with Rarity’s wrath for kicking her absurd crush but she also couldn’t afford to have a broken glass shard from his thick frames lodge itself into one of her hooves. She would be slow-going in finishing her chores, as if she wasn’t behind enough without his persistent, if not exasperating, questions about her and the farm.

Oh, and it probably wouldn’t be the right thing to do.

But mostly, she just did not want to deal with a painful glass shard wedged into a hoof and a fuming Rarity on top of her already busy and ridiculously long afternoon.

“You know, I have such respect for the work ethic of Earth ponies.”

‘Screw it.’

She quickly calculated the type of force she would need to put into the kick that would not only knock the ignorant stallion right off his hooves but would also show him how much energy an Earth pony had. Her only regret for this action would be that Rainbow wasn’t there to witness it. The cyan pegasus was the only pony among her friends who could appreciate a good roundhouse kick.

‘No. Be kind, he’s jus’ an energetic pony with a curious bone. No different from Pinkie Pie.’

Except Pinkie Pie never annoyed Applejack half as much as this fella currently was. Not to mention she had more tact and respect in her pink mane alone than this pompous ass had in his whole body.

Applejack squinted her eyes.

‘Jus’ be kind.’ She thought to herself as she ground her teeth.

“Uh, gee, thanks. Granny Smith always said, ‘Pick an apple a day and keep trouble away.’”

Applejack shared a fake smile with him, one that made her nauseous, before turning around and continuing her walk. She breathed in deeply and closed her eyes, relaxing her tensed muscles that had readied themselves for a firm, hard buck to a face that didn’t really deserve it. After all, he was just interested in learning more about the orchard, even if his questions were irritating and seemed to be more focused on her.

She repeated to herself over and over that he was there to collect information about Ponyville and it's founding. Since Sweet Apple Acres was the heart of Ponyville itself, it only made sense that he gather as much information from her as he could. He may have been going about it the wrong way but, hey, he was a traveling writer after all. Maybe this was his way of interviewing ponies, by integrating himself into their lives to gain a better sense of how they lived in their bustling town or city.

Also, this rare opportunity was not only a big deal for Ponyville but for Sweet Apple Acres too. If he wrote a full article about the founding of Ponyville, he would have no choice but to mention the Apple family and their business. This could mean big things! If this ‘Trenderhoof’ fella was as popular as Rarity said he was, than his article could bring in more tourists for Ponyville and extra business for Sweet Apple Acres.

They may finally be able to afford the hip surgery Granny Smith was desperately in need of. Maybe even purchase some new tools that weren’t rusty or worn out from overuse. Not to mention add more bits to Applebloom’s school tuition jar.

She had no choice. If she wanted to take care of her family and her farm properly, she had to play it cool. No bucking ponies in the face.

That didn’t mean she wouldn’t fantasize about it.

“How many varieties of apples do you think there are?”

Applejack glanced at him in confusion. “Uh, on the farm or in all of Equestria? ‘Cause--“

“I once had an apple so rare, they thought it was extinct. I ate four of them!”

Trenderhoof took a giant bite from the apple he had stolen from Applejack’s basket and chewed loudly in front of her. Applejack flinched from the seeds and pulp that smacked her in the face. Juices dripped from her bangs and into her eyes causing her to give a one-eye glare to the traveling pony. She scowled at the ground as she wiped away the mess.

“Is that a fact?” She replied dryly.

“That’s my thing.” He leaned in close, his body pressed tightly against her. Applejack gave him an angry look, one he didn’t notice as he turned towards the crowd of ponies before them.

“I take the mundane, the simple, the…unappreciated, and I make it relatable.”

With a wide grin, Trenderhoof pointed towards innocent ponies within the crowd, each one staring back at him with insulted expressions painted on their faces. Applejack gave him a simple blank look. Noticing his attention was for once not on her, she quickly turned around and walked away.

“Well, I hope you can relate to Ponyville.”

Thanking the sun and moon for the distraction, she swiftly made her way towards her home to complete her chores. However, her sneaky escape was not quick enough. Applejack suddenly found herself face to face with her stalker, his lilac eyes staring straight into hers. She stared back in shock, his unexpected appearance making her jump slightly before she scrunched up her muzzle in frustration.

“Me too. But enough about me! I want to know about you. What do apples mean to…Applejack?”

Applejack bit back a sharp retort to his question. She silently cursed herself for even saying anything at all. If she had just been quiet, he would have noticed too late she had left.

‘Should have run for the hills.’

Her brows furrowed and she looked down for a few seconds to think. Trenderhoof was not going to let her go. No matter how kindly she hinted that she was busy he still refused to leave her be. She didn’t want to be rude to the fella but what other choice did she have? It was either put up with his insistent ramblings or knock out all his shiny, white teeth and pull his tongue out so he never spoke a word to her again.

Currently, she was aiming towards the latter.

However, the image of a furious, red faced Rarity popped into her mind making her cringe. It wouldn’t be in her favor if Trenderhoof found his way to the fashion designer’s doorstep with two black eyes and a concussion.

He was also writing that article. If she wanted any advertisement for her farm she would have to be respectful. No matter how much she wanted to wring his giraffe sized neck and give him a stern talking to about boundaries, she had no other option but to politely explain how occupied she presently was with her chores and to, simple put it, buzz off.

It was the best choice, though not the preferred one.

With a small sigh, she looked up towards his glimmering, bright eyes full of…something. With a thoughtful look and furrowed eyebrows, she stared back. It wasn't the first time today she made eye contact with the annoying pony, but it was the first time she noticed the glint in his gaze. She couldn’t put her hoof on why that expression seemed so familiar to her, like she had seen it before on another pony. Shaking her head, she once again focused her attention on Trenderhoof.

“Look, I’m glad you’re interested in Ponyville and all, but I’m kinda busy with my chores. And if I can’t get ’em done, there won’t be a Ponyville Days Festival for ya to write about.”

“Well, that will never do!”

Applejack froze, recognizing the voice shouting a few feet away from her. Slowly, she turned her attention towards Rarity.

‘Celestia, I hope she didn’t hear the way I talked to hi—‘

Her mind went blank upon seeing the eccentric outfit her dramatic friend was wearing. It was unique, even for Rarity, that was for sure. In true Rarity fashion, she had designed an outfit that held similar references to a farmer’s work apparel. Except with more gems, lace, and ribbon than was absolutely necessary or even needed. Applejack was positive she wore the exact same outfit for Nightmare Night a couple of years back when she dressed as one of her favorite country singers, Dolly Mareton.

Applejack’s mouth quivered and she bit her lip to keep in the hysterical laugh that wanted to burst from her mouth.

“Rarity, what are ya wearin’?” said Applejack after she cleared her throat.

“What? This old thing?” Rarity gestured to her brilliant outfit. It certainly didn't look old.

Applejack gave her a worried look.

“Aren’t ya too busy plannin’ the festival to keep makin’ new outfits for it?”

Rarity sashayed her way towards Trenderhoof, eyeing him up and down before turning her attention towards Applejack.

“I am, but the thought of hauling apples inspired me. And I just couldn’t stop myself!”

Applejack raised an eyebrow and grimaced.

“Really?”

“If there’s one thing I love, it’s hauling apples.”

Rarity flipped her mane and seductively winked towards Trenderhoof. Applejack, on the other hoof, turned her head away from both ponies to frown and roll her eyes. It was obvious Rarity was trying hard to impress the writer or at least grab his attention, something Applejack had been trying to brush off for the last three hours. What really made her upset though was the way Rarity was going about it. It made her a little sick to see her friend being somepony she wasn’t simply to impress a stallion that, in Applejack’s opinion, was not worth a lick of her time.

Also, Rarity never showed an interest in her apples before. Using her sweet apples as an excuse to flirt with the narcissistic stallion rubbed Applejack the wrong way.

Meanwhile, the distraction Rarity had created did not sway Trenderhoof’s attention. Instead he inched himself closer towards Applejack.

“I’m growing fond of it myself.” He said with a befuddled grin, closing the gap between himself and the farm mare.

Applejack backed away shooting him a dirty look. She glanced back at Rarity only to catch her making goo-goo eyes at Trenderhoof. Raising her eyebrow at her friend, she turned away so as they not see her silently judging them both.

“Maybe you two should try it sometime.” She mumbled under her breath.

Suddenly, Trenderhoof struck a pose causing Rarity to jump. Applejack just raised her other eyebrow.

“I’m feeling a tad inspired.” He said. To Rarity’s delight and to Applejack’s horror, Trenderhoof turned towards the fashionista and began to dramatically serenade her to the music in his head.

“Without farm life, there’d be such disparity.”

‘Oh, dear Luna…’ Applejack thought sending another angry look towards the traveling pony.

“These thoughts I think with great clarity!”

Applejack shot a look at Rarity to see if she was actually buying into his lunacy but from the glazed expression and goofy smile plastered on Rarity’s face, it was more than clear she was.

“Apples high to the sky, she’s the one of my eye.”

With a serious look, Trenderhoof grasped Rarity’s chin and gently caressed her. Rarity practically melted in his hooves. She held him back gently, her eyes glazed and happy.

“That fruit-hauling pony named…Applejack!”

He twisted around and fiercely grabbed Applejack by her face holding her close. Applejack just stared at him in confusion, a slight disgusted look on her face.

“Uhh…”

‘What?’

Swiveling her wide eyes to look behind him, Applejack could see the disbelief and shock etched onto Rarity’s face. Her hat appeared to have deflated with her. Applejack quickly pushed herself away from Trenderhoof, staring at him in confusion and frustration before turning around with a huff. She walked towards Sweet Apple Acres in a hurry; her back legs tense as they readied themselves for a buck she would, unfortunately, have to take out on one of her apple trees. Without turning around or stopping, she addressed the stallion watching her leave.

“Listen, it was real nice talkin’ to ya, Mr. Trenderhoof, but I have some business to attend to. I’m sure Rarity wouldn’t mind answerin’ anymore questions ya may have. Right, Rarity?”

“O-of course. I’d be…more than happy to help.”

Applejack never saw the venomous glare Rarity shot her way.

Author's Note

I have a a valid excuse for this!

See, originally, I was not going to write a story for this episode. I was going to leave it alone and watch the RariJack shippers have their fun, as they should. Really. But then Callisto made a blog post and then Tchernobog made a comment and then I went to walk my dog and then this idea popped into my head and the next thing I know...that is up there.

See? Valid excuse. Blaming other writers for my stupid idea.

Okay, I owe a lot of RariJack shippers an apology. I'm not saying this is AppleDash but....this is AppleDash.

I also see this piece as a practice story before I release anything...hm...official. Practice makes for better practice.

Originally, this story was going to be a complete oneshot but I felt bad for not submitting a story in a while and I'm still working on the next part so now it's a chapter fic. Don't worry, original dialogue will be included next chapter. You won't be reading the episode exactly either. Scenes will be added, the day will become longer for poor Applejack, Trenderhoof will turn into somewhat of a stalker male which in turn makes Applejack uncomfortable and yes, more AppleDash.

If you see any incorrect grammar or structure, I implore you, grammar nazi's, to please give me a heads up. Still on my own but divinearcadia, if your reading this. I may take you up on that offer.

Thank you and I hope you enjoyed so far!

Drop a Gemstone Bow on His Head

Rainbow Dash squinted at the sky in deep concentration. Her ruffled mane whipped around her head as she observed the strength of the wind as it blew past. Without looking away, she quickly stuck a hoof in her mouth before spitting it out and holding it above her head. Her eyes danced across the sky but her attention wasn’t aimed towards the blue above her. Standing still, cyan wings slowly stretched outwards as the tips of her feathers gently fluttered in the wind.

Silence reigned around her. She was in her element and nothing short of a disaster could pull her focus away. Her hoof was still held high above her, the saliva covering it drying in the afternoon sun.

‘Come on. Come on!’

A few yards away, a groups of ponies crowded around a number of carts overflowing with decorations designed by the town’s fashionista herself. Some ponies dragged away a few containers heading towards separate parts of Town Square. Among the ponies standing by the carts were two small fillies, each paying close attention to the rainbow mane pegasus some distance away.

“What’s she doing?” Whispered the filly unicorn.

“I have no idea,” replied the small winged pegasus, “But she looks so cool doing it.”

Rainbow scrunched up her muzzle in annoyance and waited a few minutes more. Inhaling deeply, she stretched her back muscles and counted to ten in her head. Her wings tensed as she readied them for a good, strong flap that would send her airborne. As she counted down, the powerful wind that blew around her began to gradually calm until it became a slight breeze. She closed her eyes and waited, each number she thought getting closer to zero. She concentrated on the breeze and the direction it was coming from until, finally, she could feel it drift away into nothing.

‘Gotcha.’

With a small smirk and a determined expression, Rainbow opened her eyes, stomped her hoof to the ground, and gave a giant beat of her wings. She pushed off and shot straight into the air, a rainbow trail left behind in her sudden flight. Below, the two young ponies bounced up and down in excitement, their eyes wide with awe.

“There she goes!”

“Wow...”

Rainbow raced upwards, the bright blue color of the sky the only thing in her sight. She climbed faster, the wind resistance making her eyes water. As she gained distance, her velocity slowed and she stopped suddenly in the air, her body suspended in space for a moment before she focused on maneuvering herself downwards. Steadily, she flipped in the air, her wings jutting out to catch the wind beneath her. She lost sight of the azure sky above and slowly came into view the green terrain below.

Rainbow grinned as she allowed gravity to drag her back down to earth. The wind whistled in her ears as her speed picked up. She shifted her wings and forelegs to her sides, her fall becoming faster. The pegasus’ body fell head first through the clouds, her rainbow mane blowing behind her. She chuckled lightly to herself before shifting her gaze from the approaching land beneath her to what laid ahead.

Time slowed as magenta eyes brightened from the glare of the sun. An expression of contentment crossed her features. She inhaled softly through her muzzle and her grin turned into a gentle smile as she admired the view.

Before her, lined up against the horizon and glowing in Celestia’s light, were hills of apple trees. Beyond the hills was a tiny silhouette of a barn house in the distance.

‘Home.’

Her gaze remained on the orchard for a few moments longer soaking in the image to replay in her mind later. She sighed contently before shaking her head and blinking her eyes out of her stupor.

Time seemed to speed up again as Rainbow found her body zooming faster towards the ground. With renewed energy and a giant grin on her face, the pegasus snapped her wings outwards and pulled out of her free fall.

Below, a crowd of ponies cheered her on. The sounds of encouragement had her laughing and flying faster, the adrenaline in her system pumping harder. She angled herself again and flew towards the group that had huddled themselves around the large gathering of boxes. Among the throng of awestruck ponies were an excited, orange winged pegasus and her jumping, white unicorn companion.

“Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, you girls ready?” Rainbow shouted from above, still flying closer to the group.

“Ready!” the two fillies shouted together.

“Alright, here we go.” Rainbow mumbled. She flapped her wings harder closing the distance between her and the ponies below. The two young fillies stared waiting for her to make the call. A low buzzing noise floated through the air as the adolescent pegasus’ tiny wings flapped in anticipation.

The moment was tense and silent, all eyes on the pony rushing towards the two fillies.

“Now!” Rainbow cried out.

The young ponies suddenly whipped out two long strands of lights and tossed them her way just as she made a sharp turn to avoid colliding with the crowd. The crowd gasped as Rainbow quickly grabbed onto the lights and sped her way towards a bare tree spinning around and placing the strands on with quick precision. She rushed off towards the two fillies to retrieve more lights, both ponies readying themselves for the next throw.

More strands of lights were thrown her way as she rushed passed to decorate the next tree. Rainbow surged through Town Square making sure to cover every inch of it with decorations approved by her fashionista friend. On and on, the process continued with the two young ponies launching lights and other assortment of decorations at the rainbow blur that passed by every few seconds. They laughed in delight as they watched buildings and trees suddenly covered in lights, balloons, and giant bows in a blink of an eye.

“Come on, let’s get the last piece. She’s already heading towards town hall.” Said Scootaloo. Her friend nodded in agreement and together they ran towards the last box.

Rainbow soared through the square, the last of the ornaments in her hooves and headed straight for the biggest building bare of any decorations. She quickly glanced down to see how the two young fillies were doing when she noticed more ponies walking toward distant parts of Ponyville with carts full of containers. Briefly, she wondered if the plans for the decoration committee, that is her and Pinkie, had changed. Knowing Rarity, it wouldn’t be surprising if there were a sudden “adjustment” to the way they decorated everything. Well, she could worry about that later. Shrugging, she turned her attention back to town hall, throwing on the last of the lights and bows while spiraling around the structure.

Meanwhile, her two helpers dragged behind them a giant, violet bow that sparkled in the light with gems and rhinestones. However, the bow didn’t bedazzle the girls as it was made to do. They grunted and groaned as they neared a catapult contraption generously loaned to them by Pinkie Pie and lifted the heavy burden onto it setting up the rig.

“What, ugh, what did your sister make this thing out of? Cement?” Grunted the pegasus.

“Mmph! I told her there were too many rhinestones.” Complained Sweetie Belle.

They slumped to the ground and gasped for air, Scootaloo wiped her forehead of perspiration and stared at her companion in disbelief. “I don’t think the rhinestones are what made it so heavy.” She pointed towards the multicolored gems. “Though they didn’t make it any easier to carry.”

“Hey! You girls done yet?” shouted Rainbow from above.

“We’re all set.” Jumped the little unicorn.

Rainbow nodded and zipped upwards to the tower. She glanced down and positioned herself to the right height. The wind picked up again but this time she ignored it and squinted to see the two young ponies and the last decoration for the festival.

‘And now for the finishing touch.’

“Alright, ladies, this one’s gonna be a doozy. If this fails, I’m gonna have to deal with a very unhappy Rarity and I seriously do not want that.”

“You’re not the only one.” Muttered Sweetie.

Scootaloo nodded and gave her a bright smile. “We’re rearing to go, Rainbow Dash!”

“Atta girl! On my count. One.”

The girls readied the catapult, settling the bow inside. Both fillies bit on a short rope and pulled all the way down reaching the ground. They each closed their eyes in expectancy.

“Two.”

Rainbow made a quick inspection around her to make sure no pony was in the way of being crushed by a giant, gem covered bow in case she wasn’t able to catch it. She quietly murmured a silent prayer to Celestia and rotated her shoulders. She inhaled and held out her forelegs ready to take on the task at hoof.

Three!”

They released the rope and the hefty bow went flying through the air. The two young ponies backed up from the catapult to watch in wonder as the bow soared over Town Square. It began to quickly close distance with the cyan pegasus. Rainbow held her hooves out and waited for the impact until she noticed the bow begin to descend to the ground, farther away from it’s original target.

“Huh? What the—“

“Oh no! It’s too heavy.” Shouted Sweetie Belle.

Around her, the crowds of ponies that gathered to watch Rainbow Dash gasped in horror as some near town hall screamed and ran away from the falling projectile. Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle cringed and made their way around the herds running past them to see how Rainbow was faring.

‘Damn it, Rarity. You just had to make it big and obnoxious.’ Rainbow cursed as she hurried her way towards the falling bow. With a quick burst of speed she flew underneath it and caught it with both her forelegs a few feet away from the ground. However, she wasn’t prepared for the weight and immediately fell.

“Woah!”

“Rainbow Dash!” shouted the young fillies.

They watched as Rainbow struggled to hold the bow and keep herself in the air. She groaned as she tried to readjust the decoration in her hooves and gasped for air as her wings worked double time.

‘This thing is heavier than Applejack.’ Rainbow thought to herself as she silently thanked the princesses for all the practice she had gained from carrying Applejack around Sweet Apple Acres. She breathily chuckled to herself as memories of flying with the apple farmer to secluded places popped into her mind. Her face took on a constipated look, a mix of dreamy and pained. She struggled with the decoration in her hooves but with her mind slowly falling into the memory of a sun soaked earth pony embracing her tightly in her forelegs, her grip on the bow began to lessen and soon it was slipping from her grasp.

“Is she okay? She looks sick.” Asked Sweetie Belle worriedly.

“She’s fine. No way is she going to let some ugly thing stop her.” Scootaloo glared at the gaudy piece.

“It’s not ugly. It’s just…heavily decorated.”

The young pegasus ignored her friend and continued to watch Rainbow’s struggle, her face turning a shade of red. Neither filly knew if it was from the stress of caring the bow or if she was about to pass out.

“I’m pretty sure she’s going to throw up.” Sweetie Belle stared at Rainbow in fear.

“She’s not sick. She just needs some motivation.” Scootaloo ran closer to Rainbow. “Come on, Dash, you can do it!”

The encouraging shout of her adopted sister busted her memory bubble and Rainbow suddenly recalled the fact that she was holding a very heavy decoration that was currently sliding out of her hooves. She gasped and readjusted her grip, the bow crushing her chest for a second. She cleared her throat as she began to ascend towards the tower.

‘Probably not the best time to reminisce.’

Rainbow pumped her wings harder and grunted as she slowly began to build height. She flew closer to the top of town hall, the tower a short distance away. Her forelegs shook from the weight and sweat began to build on her forehead. Finally, with a long groan and shaky legs, she lifted the bow over her head and placed it delicately on the hook hammered into the tower.

The two young ponies watched as Rainbow slowly backed away from the bow, her hooves held in front of her waiting for the piece to suddenly fall off. She feared it would be too heavy for the hook and was almost positive she heard the tower groan. Biting her lower lip, she waited in silence. After a few strained moments, it was concluded the bow wasn’t going to fall and crush an innocent pony beneath it.

Rainbow glided away from the main centerpiece and let out a large sigh of relief. The unique bow made special for town hall was safely hanging in place.

‘It’s over.’ Rainbow hung her head back and wiped away her sweat. The evil deed was done and all was right in the world.

Now she wouldn’t have to listen to Rarity dramatically panic over it. It had taken hours for the girls to reassure her it wouldn’t be ruined and another two to calm her down from her anxiety attack when she found out Rainbow was going to handle its placement. The cyan pegasus would have never thought she see the day when Rarity would get on her knees and beg Pinkie Pie to take care of her very expensive, time consuming, delicate creation. After all, Pinkie Pie was the party pony, so of course she would know better than Rainbow how to handle her precious bow.

In all honesty, it kind of hurt to see the mistrust Rarity had in her. She knew it was just the stress of preparing the festival in three days, not to mention she spent an awful amount of time working on the main piece for town hall. Rarity was a perfectionist and a diva when it came to her work. It was just the thought of everything falling apart that she feared the most.

Still, it wasn’t a good enough excuse to have doubt in her. Hadn’t Rainbow proved time and time again that she could be trusted, could be loyal? Rarity was never shy in asking for her help before.

Yes, Rainbow may be irresponsible sometimes, okay, maybe more than sometimes, but when it came to her friends she was always there to help out and do her best. If it wasn’t for Applejack defending the pegasus’ ability to be responsible and dependable, Rainbow didn’t think Rarity would have let her near an inch of her divine bow.

She smiled remembering the lecture the farmer gave the fashionista about her uncertainty in her friends. The dark look and small scowl she gave the tearful unicorn made Rainbow’s day a bit brighter. Applejack had faith in her.

That’s all that mattered.

“Rainbow Dash!” Rainbow blinked out of her thoughts and looked down.

Below her, she could hear the cheers of ponies nearby who were watching the tense spectacle, Scootaloo’s and Sweetie Belle’s cheers being the loudest among them. Rainbow grinned and made her way towards the two fillies as they ran to meet her. They bounced up and down in excitement rambling on about the incredible feat she had just pulled off.

“That was amazing! The way it flew in the air—“

“—And then it started to fall—!”

“—And you were all whoosh! And we were all, like, oh no!”

“I was so sure you were going to puke.”

“You were awesome!”

Rainbow chuckled and made a dramatic pose, a smirk plastered on her face. “All in a day’s work, kids.” She ruffled Scootaloo’s mane. “You weren’t bad yourselves.”

“Thanks, Dash.” Scootaloo smiled.

“So we did okay?”

“You guys were almost like pros. Nice aim.” She hoof bumped with Sweetie Belle. The girls giggled at her praise.

Rainbow was about to say something else until she noticed in the periphery of her eye ponies walking away from Town Square with more cargo. She looked around her to see other ponies begin to disperse from the crowd that had been watching her act, leaving since the show was over. A few even took carts full of boxes with them.

“Hey, you girls know anything about—“

“Showing off again, Dash?”

Rainbow turned to see who interrupted her. Flitter, her right hoof mare on the weather team, walked towards the group with a large grin and a mischievous expression. She had been one of the few weather team pegasi to volunteer and help out the decorating committee put lights and streamers on the nearby buildings around Town Square. She was also responsible for assisting Rainbow into forcing all the other pegasi on her team to help out. With her support, and the aid of some very disgruntled ponies, they were able to get half of Town Square ready for the festival.

That was until Rainbow Dash had the brilliant idea of having two ponies throw lights at her while she was at super top speed in order to finish the job quicker.

“Heh. Kids wanted a show. I thought it would be good for them to see how a professional gets the job done.” She shrugged.

“So, the Pinkie Pie way?”

Rainbow grinned. “She taught me well.”

“Uh huh.” Flitter smirked. “Well, since we’re done here, I guess I’ll meet you back at our meeting spot in an hour.”

“What?” Rainbow glanced at the clock above town hall’s main entrance. “Oh, pony feathers! I totally forgot we have work today.”

“You’re captain.” Flitter said in a deadpan voice.

“Yeah, well, that’s why I have you around. To remind me when we have meetings and junk.”

“I feel so appreciated.” Flitter rolled her eyes.

Rainbow chuckled and gave a tiny smile before she bit her lip and shifted her gaze towards the ground.

“Thing is, I promised Applejack I’d meet up with her after I finished up here. I was going to help her around the farm before that reporter pony shows up.”

“Oh right, I remember you mentioning something about that yesterday.” Flitter tapped her hoof to her chin in mock thought. That’s all Rainbow Dash was able to talk about the other day. During their shift, Flitter listened to her captain rattle on about Applejack and the famous writer pony, mostly Applejack.

It wouldn’t have been such a problem to listen to if maybe Dash had gotten off her flank to help with the small rain storm scheduled for the night instead of lying on a rain cloud and staring up at the sky in a dreamy daze.

In other words, Flitter knew all about it.

“Applejack and I are going to clean up the barn house before he comes by.”

The giggles of two young fillies reached her ears and Rainbow turned to look behind her with a quizzical expression.

“What’s so funny?”

Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle were beaming at each other. Scootaloo cleared her throat and smoothed back her mane in a nervous twitch. “N-nothing, nothing. Just…you’re going to go see Applejack, that’s all.”

Sweetie Belle covered her mouth with her hooves and giggled.

Rainbow raised an eyebrow. “Yeah, so?”

“That’s, uh, that’s nice. We’re happy for you, that’s all.” Scootaloo snickered.

“Super happy!” Squealed Sweetie. “I’m sure Applebloom will be too!” Scootaloo elbowed Sweetie causing her to grunt.

It was quiet for a minute. Rainbow squinted her eyes at the two fillies and frowned. “Why—“

Flitter coughed. “Oh, is he coming by today?”

Rainbow turned back to Flitter, distracted by the question. She gave the girls behind her a quick glance in suspicion before answering.

“Oh, yeah! AJ’s real excited about it.” Rainbow grinned. “You should have seen her yesterday. When Rarity told her that this traveling guy wanted to write about Sweet Apple Acres, Applejack started making plans to fix up some things around the farm. You know, make it look good for him.” Rainbow shrugged.

Flitter gave a nervous smile as she had heard all this yesterday afternoon. Before she could interrupt Rainbow from giving the same information, she noticed a small change in her boss. She watched as Rainbow’s eyes lidded, her gaze drifted towards something in the distance, and a breathy chuckle escaped her.

“Course, I don’t think there’s anything wrong with the farm at all. It’s fine just the way it is. Sweet Apple Acres is warm and safe. You know, homey.” Rainbow’s wings fluttered grabbing Flitter’s attention. She focused on them for a moment with furrowed brows and a concentrated look before widening her eyes in recognition. She quickly tore her gaze away to focus on her boss, her mouth forming a small ‘oh’.

“I told her to leave it alone but she’s so nervous about this guy thinking it’s a dump or something. If he does, that’s his problem. He’s a traveling pony, after all. Probably doesn’t know a good home when he sees one.” Rainbow scoffed then sighed. “Still, I promised her I’d help clean up today.”

More giggles could be heard behind the cyan pegasus and Rainbow shot them a quick glare freezing them mid-laugh.

"What?"

"Nothing!" Scootaloo shook her head. Rainbow narrowed her eyes but decided to ignore the strange behavior.

When she turned around to face Flitter, she found her co-worker staring at her with wide eyes and a small look of awe. Her eyes glistened in the sun and if Rainbow didn’t know any better, she would have sworn her friend was going to cry. The cyan pegasus cocked her head sideways in puzzlement.

“Uh, Flitter? You okay?”

“Hm? Oh, yes. I’m fine.” She shook her head. “Its just…wow. That’s really sweet of you, Dash. I’m so happy for you both.” Flitter said in wonder.

Rainbow blinked and cocked an eyebrow in confusion. “Why? I’m not the one getting interviewed.”

Flitter’s eyes widened and, realizing her mistake, quickly stuttered out a response. “W-well, I mean I’m so happy for, um, Applejack! It’s just, uhh, really kind of you to help her out is all.” She rested a hoof on Rainbow’s shoulder. “You’re such a good friend.”

Rainbow stared down at the hoof with a befuddled look before glancing back up. “Um, thanks, Flitter.”

“It’s just a wonderful opportunity for Applejack. I’m sure you’ll support her the best you can.” Flitter said in a meaningful tone.

Rainbow gave a fearful look. “You make it sound like somepony’s dying. It’s just a small interview.” She brushed off her hoof with a grimace. “But thanks for the moral support, I guess.”

“You’re welcome.” Flitter gave a small nod and a smile.

An awkward moment passed between the two. Flitter stared at her captain with a look of respect and admiration. Rainbow stared quizzically back. Flitter wasn’t usually this dedicated to her. In fact, most of the time she was reprimanding the pegasus for something or other. It made her feel a bit exposed to see Flitter staring at her like that.

Like she knew something important.

Rainbow flinched at the thought and hurriedly searched around to find a way out of her strange predicament. She could hear the two fillies behind her whispering but she continued to ignore them. Rainbow looked to her left and perceived a crowd of ponies walking through Town Square dragging behind them full carts of boxes. She was instantly reminded of the questions she had wanted to ask before Flitter interrupted her. Quickly, she latched onto the distraction.

“Hey, do you know why everypony is walking around with more decorations? I only said we’d cover Town Square.”

Flitter blinked out of her daze and shook her head. “You don’t know? I figured she would have told you.”

“Who? Rarity? She didn’t tell me anything.” Rainbow shook her head, confused.

“No, not her. Seems there’s been a change of plans. Pinkie—“

“Say no more.” Rainbow raised her hoof to stop her. She signed and shook her head. “I should have known. I’ll go talk to her. She may be abusing her power without Rarity knowing.”

Flitter frowned. “That might be for the best. I saw a few frazzled ponies run away from Sugarcube Corner a little while ago.”

That was no surprise.

Pinkie had wanted to decorate all of Ponyville for the festival to make it more lively and fun. Rarity hadn’t agreed with that notion, instead believing it was in the best interest of the town (and maybe the traveling pony she has a crush on) to only decorate Town Square and Sweet Apple Acres. She explained it would look more elegant and sophisticated compared to crowded and rowdy. Rainbow had rolled her eyes on that one.

Naturally, Pinkie popped like a balloon when she was told to rein it in.

Hopefully, Pinkie didn’t disregard the instructions Rarity had explained to them in order to do her own thing. If she did, well, they had a very angry unicorn diva to look forward to.

‘Great.’

“Think you’ll have time to see them both?”

Rainbow blinked at Flitter. “What?”

“You said you were going to help Applejack today.” Flitter titled her head. “Will you have time to see them both?”

Rainbow turned to look behind her. In the distance, she could barely see an outline of apple trees resting on the hills that surrounded the barn house.

She wasn’t going to abandon Applejack. She had promised the farmer she would be there to help out around the farm and she wasn’t going to break it. Applejack had been looking forward to today all afternoon yesterday. No way was she going to ruin it for her by not showing up to give some support.

Applejack had asked her, had wanted her near.

She could just imagine her farmer getting back from her chores in town, excited about the new prospect of advertisement that awaited her farm. Rainbow didn’t want to miss that for the world.

She turned her head to stare directly ahead in the direction of Sugarcube Corner. Pinkie needed her help too, or a little talk about controlling her instincts. She couldn’t let her get chewed out by their very stressed out friend just because she wanted to help make the festival a little livelier. If she went to talk to her first, she might be able to save her flank from the upset unicorn who mostly likely had already seen the masses of ponies carrying decorations all around town.

Torn between loyalties, Rainbow bit her lip in thought.

Pinkie and Applejack both needed her and she only had an hour to visit each one before setting off to work. Between the two, Pinkie required her a bit more at the moment, what with dealing with Rarity and all. Ever since she found out she was hosting the festival, Rarity had become a bit bitchy. Well, from her perspective. It probably wasn’t the right thing to say out loud to the girls when they left Carousel Boutique the day before. Not that she meant it as an insult, never as Rarity was one of her best friends. It was really just an observation.

Applejack had slapped her behind the head for that one.

The point was Rarity’s temper and patience had worn thin within the last twenty-four hours, especially when she found out that famous traveling writer was coming into town.

Once she sees the mess of ponies running around Ponyville caring more decorations, she’ll most likely have a fit. Pinkie could usually handle herself in certain situations but it made Rainbow feel a bit better knowing she could take the brunt of the fashionista’s wrath instead of her energetic and sometimes easily deterrable friend.

Applejack needed her in a different way but she would be able to last half an hour without her help.

Besides, Applejack would understand. She’d probably make the same choice.

“I’ll make time.” Rainbow nodded, making her final decision. “I need to check on Pinkie first. Rarity’s been a bit tense since yesterday so I should probably see what Pinkie’s up to before she sets her off. Applejack will be fine on her own for a while without me. I’ll check up on her later to make sure she’s okay.”

Sweetie Belle muffled her giggles behind her and she shot them another look before they both straightened and blessed her with a happy smile.

“Stop doing that.” She commanded.

“Doing what?” Sweetie asked innocently.

Rainbow groaned and rolled her eyes before fixating her attention back to Flitter. Flitter gazed at her with wide, glassy eyes.

“What now?”

“You’re so loyal to her.” She whispered.

Rainbow Dash’s eyes widened in fear. “Um, okay then.” She dragged out. “Well! This conversation has been…interesting, but I should really get going so I don’t waste anymore time.” Smiling nervously, Rainbow grabbed the two fillies behind her and pushed them forwards.

“Girls, say bye-bye to crazy Flitter, will ya?”

“Bye, crazy Flitter!” Sweetie waved.

“So long, crazy.” Saluted Scootaloo.

Flitter rolled her eyes and began to flap her wings. “Fine, fine. Whatever. Just make sure to be on time to work.”

“Dude, I got this.” Rainbow smirked.

Flitter flew away from the group of girls. “Right, good luck with Rarity then!”

Rainbow scowled at her flying form. “Thanks, Flitter!” she shouted. She sighed and turned back to the small fillies waiting for her.

“Looks like I’m not gonna be able to sneak in that afternoon nap. I gotta go deal with your sister.” She pointed at Sweetie Belle.

“Now you know how I feel.” Sweetie muttered.

“Aw, it won’t be so bad, Dash. Besides, she’ll be happy to see we finished up here!” Scootaloo smiled.

“By the way, how’d you get Rarity to let you go through with this?” Sweetie leaned sideways to get a better look at her sister’s hoof made bow. “She was pretty obsessed with that thing being all perfect. I can’t imagine her giving you the okay to launch it in the air.”

Rainbow winced. Her gaze slid to her left as she scratched the back of her mane. “I, um, didn’t tell her.”

She blinked. “What!?” Sweetie Belle squeaked.

Rainbow cringed. “Look, she practically had an aneurism when she found out I was the one putting it up instead of Pinkie. I didn’t want her freaking out more if she saw my real plan so I left out a few details.”

“So you lied to her?”

“Like the good friend I am, yes.” Rainbow nodded. “It’s probably best she didn’t know. I saved her a whole lot of worrying.”

“She thought Pinkie Pie handling it would have been better?” Scootaloo asked confused.

“We are in so much trouble!” Sweetie Belle cowered. Her legs shook as she twisted her head left and right, searching for any sign of her sister.

“I mean, it’s Pinkie Pie. She would have come up with a crazier idea than this.”

“Believe me, she did.” Rainbow replied in a deadpan tone. “Trust me, my plan was better.”

Anything was better than a hoof glider, a giant fire, her party canon, and a tall pony pyramid.

“Are you two even listening? When Rarity finds out I was the one who helped fling her perfect bow in the air, she’s going to ground me for life!”

“What’s the big deal? We got it up there, didn’t we? It’s all good.”

Sweetie Belle glared at her friend. “All good? It almost crashed to the ground!”

“Fine, so the way we did it wasn’t the greatest.” Scootaloo glanced up at the bow. The tower groaned under the weight. “Just very hard.”

Rainbow sighed and hugged Sweetie to her leg. “Listen, your sister is never going to find out because we’re not telling her. The less she knows, the better.”

“I can’t lie to my sister! She’ll see right through me like some of her lacey silk!” She gasped.

Rainbow jumped a bit, startled. “Sweetie Belle, relax. I told her I’d take care of it and I did.” She bent down a little to their level. “Look, if she says anything, I’ll take all the blame, alright? I just roped you into helping me and you were there to watch my back and make sure everything went according to plan.”

“What was the original plan anyway?”

Rainbow leaned back. “I said I was going to have a couple of my weather team mates help me hang it up.”

“Why didn’t you just do that?” Sweetie asked.

“…Where would be the fun in that?”

Scootaloo laughed as Sweetie Belle hung her head in disbelief. Rainbow smiled and ruffled Sweetie’s hair. She chuckled and began to flap her wings, ascending to the sky.

“Well, it’s been fun kiddos, but I gotta jet. You girls going to be fine on your own?”

“Yeah, Applebloom some how tricked us into helping her out with chores.” Scootaloo said glumly.

“Cutie Mark Crusaders House Cleaners! Yay!” Sweetie shouted. Scootaloo shook her head. “That’s how.”

Rainbow froze mid-flap and dropped to the ground in front of the smaller pegasus and unicorn. “You two are going to the farm?”

“Yeah, why?”

Rainbow squinted her eyes. “Uh, does Applejack know you’re going to be helping out?”

“I don’t know. I figured AB would tell her.” Scootaloo tilted her head. “Should we ask?”

Rainbow gave a twitchy smile. Knowing the past mischief of the Cutie Mark Crusaders, it was probably best to give AJ a little warning.

“I would give her a heads up if I were you two.” Rainbow assured them. “Just don’t cause too much trouble, ‘kay?”

“Okay!” They cheered. They turned around and walked away, waving goodbye to the cyan pegasus. "See ya later, Rainbow Dash!"

"We'll tell Applejack you said hi." Sweetie Belle winked and the two fillies sauntered off towards Sweet Apple Acres.

"Thanks, ladies." Rainbow saluted the girls and turned to fly away towards her own destination when she suddenly froze. Something about that statement seemed off. Rainbow slowly glanced back towards the two fillies and watched them leave for a moment in contemplation. She was briefly reminded of her recent conversation with Flitter and the background giggles she had heard during it. Something nagged at her in her head and she narrowed her eyes in thought. Those two fillies had been laughing about something and she didn't think it was from a joke. The way they behaved during her conversation was strange. In fact, now that she thought about it, they only giggled when she mentioned she was going to help out on the farm. And they mentioned Applebloom, didn't they? But why would any of that be funny?

Rainbow shook her head. Maybe she was reading too much into it. It did stand out as weird demeanor but it was probably nothing she should worry herself over. Fillies and colts were just freaky like that, always laughing at things that weren't really funny. Hell, she could remember a few times when she was younger where she laughed at something lame, though she would never admit it. Kids were just creepy at that age.

Rainbow scoffed and brushed back her mane. She was being ridiculous. The only times they had laughed was when she spoke about Applejack. If she hadn't known any better she would have thought they--

Rainbow's eyes widened in realization.

"Hey! Wait a second." She cried out. Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle stopped and twisted their heads to look back.

"Yeah?

Rainbow ambled towards them, her wings erect with tension. "Why were you two giggling behind me earlier?"

Both girls stiffened. They stared at each other and chuckled nervously, rubbing their legs and manes. "Um, n--no reason. Why do you ask?"

"You giggled every time I mentioned Applejack." She accused.

Sweetie Belle frowned. "We did?"

"You said Applebloom would be happy to see me on the farm. Why?"

"Uh. Well, that is...um." The girls tried to stutter out a response but the look Rainbow shined on them made them shut up quite quickly.

All three remained silent for a long time. Rainbow's nose was scrunched in suspicion. She glared down at the two fillies hoping to break one of them but both held their ground, nervously sweating, their twitchy eyes looking everywhere but her face. She watched them squirm for a while and was soon about to accuse them again when she realized what she was doing. Sighing, Rainbow backed away from the girls, relaxed her expression, and simply gave them a doleful look.

"You know, don't you?"

Sweetie Belle cowered behind Scootaloo and pushed her forward. The orange pegasus flapped her wings for balance before giving a small smile towards her adopted sister. "Define know."

"About me and Applejack." She growled.

"Oh, yeah, that. We know." Sweetie Belle nodded her head in agreement.

Rainbow smacked herself in the face with her hoof and groaned.

"But rest assured, your secret is safe with us!" Sweetie declared.

"Mostly because we were sworn to secrecy." Scootaloo sheepishly said.

Rainbow dragged her hoof from her face and gave the girls a tired look. "Did Applebloom tell you?"

"Well, technically she didn't tell us." Scootaloo shuffled her hoof.

"What does that mean?" She asked suspiciously.

"She showed us the hiding spot where you and Applejack always canoodle!" Sweetie jumped in.

Rainbow lurched up and stared at the two fillies in shock. She didn't breath but a small choking noise escaped from her mouth.

"Rainbow Dash?" Scootaloo waved a hoof in front of her face. "I think we broke her."

"Is she going to throw up?"

Rainbow smacked herself in the face again. Maybe she should go check in with Applejack first.

"Why do your wings stiffen up like that when you kiss her?"

Rainbow groaned.

Author's Note

The fun starts next chapter.

Also, a little information. Rarity said the festival is in three days. The day before she found out she was hosting it and that Trenderhoof was going to arrive in Ponyville to see the festival.

This is day one. Trenderhoof arrived in the morning, met with Rarity, and became infatuated with Applejack all before 12 o'clock. During his stalker hours, Rainbow Dash was dealing with her own little problem. *points up*

Oh yeah, the fun has been doubled.