Goldby shockleeChaptersChapter 1: EmbersChapter 3: CidersChapter 4: The ParadigmChapter 5: Who You Say You AreChapter 6: Shattered And RepairedChapter 7: Still That MareChapter 8: ForgivenessChapter 9: Be ThereEpilogue: GoldChapter 2: In SyncChapter 1: Embers “I don’t know, Applejack” said Twilight “But the new castle sure is nice. And also, each of you gets to have their throne.” “Well, ahm just happy you finally got yourself your own palace” said Applejack “I mean, that’s what a princess needs, right? Wait, has anypony seen Pinkie Pie?” "She went to visit Maud." It was just a fine day with the so-called “mane 6” having a picnic near (but not too near) the Everfree forest. Twilight, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash were under the shade of the tree while Rarity and Fluttershy were under the sun having a chat. “It’s getting late” said Rainbow Dash waking up from her sleep, “Shouldn’t we all be going home?” “Well, ah do love evening picnics” replied Applejack. “And besides, it’s still too early for Princess Luna to raise the moon” said Twilight. Rainbow Dash really wanted to go home, but deep inside her, she doesn’t. She wants to spend more time with Applejack but she can’t because of her other friends present. She wanted to say her feelings towards her, but she can’t because Twilight may overhear it. “Well, its sunset” exclaimed the impatient mare “And it’s about time we all go home.” “She’s right, you know” said Fluttershy from behind “It’s getting dark lately and, well…uh…the dark…it’s um…” “Fluttershy has a point” said Rarity “It’s way too dangerous for us to go home this night, especially if the Everfree forest is just…behind…us…” The other ponies turned their head around to look at the forest behind them. Clearly, the forest looks a lot creepier in night than in day. Fluttershy just can’t help imaging what creatures may live in the Everfree forest during the night: elves, dwarves, fairies, and other magical creatures. “I think we should go home now” squealed Fluttershy “Who knows what dangerous little dwarf might come out?” “Relax, Flutters” said Rainbow Dash “And who told you that there’s dwarves in the Everfree forest?” “My…conscience…” “Well, we should pack up now” sighed Twilight “Seems like Princess Luna is about to lift the moon.” Everyone head of to their own houses, except for Applejack who stayed behind. “Are you sure you’ll be alright there, Applejack?” asked Rainbow. “Nah, I’m fine” answered AJ. “I just wanna be alone here.” Applejack lie down beside a tree, while others are walking home. She enjoyed this time for herself, under the blue moon, being swayed by the cool evening breeze; it’s one way to comfort her during hard times. Applejack sighed as the events of the past flashed back to her: the fire, the foal, her parents, and the scream; the event somehow bruised her heart. Applejack is a strong mare but she has a dark life; having no parents and raising up Applebloom all by herself is no joke. “Stop spying on me Rainbow” she said “I know you’re behind me." "Well,” Rainbow chuckled “It’s just that I can’t help see you all alone with that look on your face.” “What look? I’m perfectly fine, and shouldn’t you be in your home right now?” “Every where’s my home, as long as there are clouds, remember?” Rainbow Dash decided to lie down beside Applejack. Rainbow suddenly felt a spark somewhere in her chest, as if some sort of embers staring to trigger inside her. She can’t help but blush faintly and turn her head away from Applejack. “Are you alright, Rainbow?” AJ asked. “What?” she answered with a faint blush “I, uhh, umm…well it’s just that…uhh…mmm…” “Seriously, what’s happenin’ to ya’?” “Well, it’s that I have a…” Rainbow tried to think twice about the words that will come out of her mouth. “You have a what?” AJ cocked an eyebrow. “I have a, let’s just say, ‘strange feeling’ on somepony else.” “And who’s that somepony?” “Well, it’s…it’s…” “Come on, sugarcube, just say it!” “Alright, it’s you…!” Rainbow Dash quickly covered her mouth with her hooves and started to heat up. Chapter 3: Ciders“Hey, Rainbow Dash!!!” “Huh, what?” said the awakened mare. “Pinkie, what are you doing here this early in the morning? And I thought you were staying with Maud?” “I am” beamed Pinkie. “She’s at Sugarcube Corner, and you promised to help Applejack at her barn right now. Apples don’t just pick by themselves, you know?” “Well, give me five more minutes” yawned Rainbow. “It’s too early to pick some apples.” She was about to resume her slumber when she was grabbed by a roped and pulled down from her cloud. “Hey, watch the wing!” “There’s no more five minutes Rainbow!” said Applejack, “Now that the leaves started to turn brown.” “Well, you don’t have to hit my head to the ground, Applejack!” Applejack just turned her back towards Rainbow Dash and started to gallop towards Sweet Apple Acres. Rainbow Dash followed but Pinkie stayed behind. “Aren’t you coming with us?” asked Rainbow. “Of course I will!” said Pinkie “I just need to get some help, duh.” “Fine, but hurry up.” It was noon by the time they reached Sweet Apple Acres. Pinkie Pie brought Maud with her. Rainbow Dash went with Applejack on the left side of the farm, and Pinkie Pie and Maud worked on the right side. As hours go by, Rainbow Dash doesn’t seem to help. She did catch a few apples though, but all she did was to stare at Applejack’s eyes, hair, and tail. Sometimes, she’d bump into a tree and wake up from her daydreaming. Then again, she’ll daydream again. Applejack already has about seven baskets full of apples, while Rainbow Dash doesn’t even have a single basket full. “Applejack~” said Rainbow in a somewhat “turned on” tone. “You sure do like Applejack!” “What, huh!?” said Rainbow, finally waking up. “Pinkie, what are you doing here? Aren’t you supposed to be on the right side of the farm?” “Well, I should be” chuckled Pinkie. “But I can’t help notice you staring at Applejack for like four hours. Look, you only have a half-full basket of apples. And I can’t help also notice that you’re drooling with your tongue out and always losing your track. I mean, snap out of it, and don’t tell me you’re in love with Applejack, are you?” “Well, I uh…” blushed Rainbow “It’s just, you know…” “Hmmm…” said Pinkie with her hoof on her chin, “Hot tummy, sweaty forehead, red cheeks, that feeling of turned on in your eyes; Aha! I knew it!” “Okay, okay!” shushed Rainbow, “I admit. I’m in love with Applejack.” “Aww…isn’t that cute Maud?” Maud didn’t respond. “I know. They’ll make a perfect couple!” grinned Pinkie. “I mean” said Rainbow with a sprightly voice, “Who can stand those pure emerald eyes, that soft, orange fur, that honest and hardworking personality of hers, that…owww! Why’d you smacked me for?” “Just making sure you’re awake!” “Yeah, right!” Rainbow Dash went back to work, as well as Pinkie and Maud until sunset came. “Whew!” said Applejack “Well thanks everpony for lending a hoof: Pinkie, Rainbow, and Maud. How ‘bout some cider?” “Sure!” said Pinkie and Rainbow. “How ‘bout you, Maud?” “Nah, I’m good.” “Alright, why don’t y’all come inside for some cider?” Chapter 4: The Paradigm “Hey, Pinkie” said Applejack, taking a sip from her cup, “Where did Maud go?” “Oh, she went home” Pinkie answered. “She said she’s reeeeeaaaaaally tired.” “Yeah” chuckled Rainbow Dash, “That’s what she said.” “Oh, don’t be silly. She’s not like me: gets easily tired, sleeps a lot. Well, she is tired from that trip of hers.” “What trip?” “I don’t know.” “Well, how did you know that she’s tired?” “I don’t” she then whispered at Rainbow’s ear, “I feel she’s tired.” “Feel she’s tired? Is that even possible?” “Well, we are sisters. And speaking of feels, who don’t you say ‘her’ what you’re feeling right now?” “Huh?” said the confused pegasus. She was about to ask another question when Pinkie answered her by giving her the “look”. “Oh, Oh, uhh…” said Rainbow. “I don’t know, Pinkie. What if ‘she’ doesn’t feel the same way as I do?” “Nonsense, I mean…oh wait” Pinkie then grabbed Rainbow’s left hoof and dragged her outside. “Mind if we talk outside Applejack?” “Uhh…” said Applejack, with a hint of "jealousy" in her voice. “Uhmm…sure.” Pinkie then threw Rainbow deep into the apple forest. “Owww! Hey, what’s that for?” said Rainbow. “Ssshhh…” whispered Pinkie. “Alright, I have a plan.” “What kind of plan?” “It’s not just any plan, I have a great paradigm stored in my head all these years. I haven’t been using it just in case this time showed up.” “You have what now on your head?” “A paradigm: some sort of good plan. I know, it’s too ‘deep’ for you to understand, but this is the best way I can describe you how ‘good’ the plan is.” “So, what’s the plan?” Pinkie Pie turned her head around to make sure that no one is watching them. Then, she whispered at her ear the plan. As Rainbow hears of this “paradigm” she somehow started to blush and heat up again until she reacted violently. “Wait, no, I’m not doing that!” she screamed. “Not too loud” Pinkie susurrated. “And besides, didn’t you told me once that you’ve waited long to do that ‘thing’ with her?” “Well, yes and no. Yes, because I have a crush on her. No, ‘cause what would she think about me once she found out?” “Well, it’s now your fault if everything went wrong, as long as I gave my best opinion.” “That’s your best? I mean, can there be anything better like that? Like we can just have a chat or something?” “Rainbow!? Pinkie!?” “Here she comes!” she pushed Rainbow towards Applejack. “And don’t forget the plan!” “Pinkie Pie, wai-…oh, hi Applejack.” “Rainbow, where have y’all been? And where’s Pinkie?” “Oh, uh…mmm…can we…can we talk?” “About what?” Applejack cocked an eyebrow. “About something…” “Uhh…okay, but not here. I have a sleeping family behind me, 'ya know?” Rainbow Dash nodded as they went deep into Applejack’s farm. Pinkie tip-toed (or tip-hoofed; I don't know) behind them to see if the plan was going perfectly well. “Listen, Applejack, I have to tell you something.” “I’m list’ning.” “Well, I have this strange thing that’s keeping me, you know, ‘disturbed’ for like seven weeks now.” “What?” Applejack doesn’t seem to understand (although inside her, she does). “It’s…uhh… It’s umm… (How in Equestria do I say this to Applejack!?)” “What’s that yer tryin’ to say?” “Oh, it’s umm…ouch!” she said as Pinkie Pie threw her an apple from behind. “Are ya' alright, sugar cube?” “Yeah, I’m fine. It’s just that, well, how would you react when you found out that one of your closes friend somehow ‘likes’ you more than a friend?” “Well, as fo' me, that's the cutest thing I’ve ever saw.” “Really?” Rainbow Dash felt that there’s something burning up inside her. “Why’d ‘ya ask by the way?” “Well, ‘cause I heard that someone here likes you.” “Really?” Applejack also felt something burning inside her. “Well, who is it?" Rainbow Dash suddenly went red by the words she heard from her "marefriend". "Tell me, I won’t be mad.” “How about I show you?” “Huh?” Applejack raised an eyebrow when suddenly Rainbow blushed and leaned in to kiss Applejack. Applejack was surprised by what Rainbow did, but she then closed her eyes and just let Rainbow's lips touch hers. Rainbow Dash felt like she’s floating in another world. Applejack felt the same also. Then, Applejack suddenly broke the kiss, with cheeks madly red while Pinkie Pie is secretly laughing behind a tree by the sight. “Rainbow, I…” Chapter 5: Who You Say You Are “Oh, uhh, uhmm…” Rainbow Dash was ashamed after what she did. She started to walk slowly backwards, thinking that Applejack hates her now that she knows the truth. “Applejack, I…I think I should be going now. It’s midnight and…” “Wait” Applejack grabbed her hoof. “How long have ya’ been feelin' this, well, feeling towards me?” “It’s umm…it’s about a year now and-“ “And ‘ya didn’t tell me about this?” “I was afraid you might get mad at me for this.” Applejack leaned in and kissed Rainbow Dash’s red hot cheeks. “Do I look like ahm mad to ‘ya?” she said with her eyelids half-way open. Rainbow Dash stood frozen. “So, you’re saying that you…you really like me?” “Like what?” “Like…like…” Rainbow can’t process thoroughly what she’s about to say, “Like LIKE me.” “Huh?” “You know, like…LIKE you.” “Like…like…like a friend?” “More than a friend.” Applejack started to heat up as the orange pony turned red. “’Ya really feel this way 'bout me?” “I don’t know, I mean, I…I really...I like, I mean, love. I mean...It's just...uhh...” “Now, don’t ya' say another word” she said, putting a hoof on Rainbow Dash’s lips. “I know what ‘ya mean.” “Really!?” Rainbow Dash stared at Applejack. The farmer’s emerald eyes glistened by the blue moonlight shining overhead of her. “She’s so beautiful” Rainbow thought. Applejack also stared at the mare’s magenta eyes, trying to think a question just to break the ice. The cool wind howled at the mares as if there was a staring contest happening. Everything was quiet. The only thing heard is the wind moving, the trees swaying, the leaves cracking, and Pinkie Pie eating apples behind a distant tree “Say, Rainbow” she said, breaking the silence, “I know this is a really weird question, but, do ya’…love me?” “What kind of question is that? I mean, of course I do! I love you for" she was trying to describe her love towards her but she can't find the appropriate words. "For uhm…” “For what?” “For...for who you say you are!” “For who ah say ah am!?” Applejack said, a bit confused (“I don’t get it.”) Another silenced spurred the two confused ponies. “Well, to make things clearer, try describing yourself.” “Well, ah'm…ah'm honest, diligent, hardworking…” “And I love you because of that!” “Because of what?” “Right now, you said who you are, and I love you just like that!” “Really? This…this is how you…love me?” “Well…yeah! For so long and I thought you will like rage out because of this, but now I know what you feel, I think it’s time for me to…” Rainbow Dash was about to, let’s say, “engage” to Applejack (wow, the story’s going too fast, or is it?) when Applejack shouted. “Time!? Oh gosh, I forgot, it’s midnight and I have to wake up early to sell ‘em apples!” Applejack rushed back inside her home. “Bye Applejack, I LOVE YOU!” she shouted. I think Applejack heard what she said 'cause she slowed down and then continued running. Rainbow stood still as she watched AJ going inside. Rainbow Dash went out of the apple forest until Pinkie suddenly jumped from behind the bush towards her back, laying Rainbow Dash on top of her. “Wooow, Rainbow, that was sssoooooo cute!” she grinned. “I knew you could do it!” “Well, I can't do it without you, Pinkie.” “You don’t need to return the favor; just trying to help my friend, that’s all!” “Hey, Rainbow, ah forgot to ask if ‘ya can help me with…” Applejack went back outside and was shocked and angry to see Pinkie Pie standing on top of Rainbow Dash. “Rainbow…Dash!” she said, her eyes beginning to moist. Rainbow Dash can’t move, she doesn't know what to say or what she’ll do. “Uhh…I think I…I should be going…home” Pinkie said, running. Chapter 6: Shattered And Repaired “Uhh…hey Applejack, why are you...still here?” Rainbow said, trying to convince Applejack that everything was just a mistake. “The question is why are you two still here!?” Applejack cried. “Hey, calm down, I can expla-“ “Ya’ don’t need to explain. I’ve seen everything for myself with mah very own eyes.” “Wait, Applejack! It’s not what you think it is. It’s just a…” “Misunderstanding? Yes, it was, but why do ya' need to play with mah emotions like this?” Rainbow Dash stood still; jumbled, mixed up, confused, and filled with guilt. “Everything you said back there…you lied!” “No, it wasn’t. It’s all true. I really…love you!” “Just…just stop it Rainbow, before you further-“ “Applejack,” she said grabbing her hoof “Listen to me: we have no relationship with Pinkie Pie. Everything you saw is…well, not what you think it is.” “Yeah, right!” she shouted, slipping her hoof away from Rainbow's “No, really!” “Just…just go home Rainbow. Ah had enough of you.” “But, Applejack…” Applejack didn’t say another word. She went inside her house, wet with tears, her heart shattered like glass. “I…love…you…” Rainbow Dash flew away, crying and fully depressed. Sometimes, she’d bump into a tree and then fall into the ground, but she managed to stand up and continue flying until she broke her right wing. She went to the nearest house—which is Fluttershy’s cottage—to stay for the night until her wing heals. The next morning, Applejack went out to sell her apples. Her head was aching about the incident last night, still crying. She went out until she heard a voice from one of the tree “Hello, there Applejack! I see that you woke up as early as I did.” “Wait, what was…Discord! What in Equestria are you doing up there in our roof?” “Oh, hi Applejack” said Fluttershy. “Discord is here to help me with the hibernation of some animals. You don’t mind, do you?” “Not at all” she replied, with a low melancholy tone. “Thanks. I’ll be gone for a while to get something. I’ll be right back Discord.” “Bye Fluttershy!” he said, waving at her. “Say, Applejack, you don’t seem well today. By the way, have you heard about the thing happened to Rainbow Dash? That pony needs to be careful next she’s flying through the Everfree forest. We found her last night just lying around outside the forest and she was like…you’re not listening, are you?” “Like ah care." Applejack said with frustration. “Well, suit yourself!” he said, lying on one of the branches of a tree. “Time to test these shades Fluttershy found for me.” “I mean, why would anyone ‘care’ for someone breaking your heart after saying your feelings towards her?” she said to Discord, but unknown to Applejack, Discord was already sleeping. “Not speaking, are ‘ya? Well, if ya’ think you’re helpin’, you’re not. I mean, everything…is a misunderstanding…” she was starting to be reinstated. “And ah think I was too harsh on her, ah didn’t even give her a chance to speak, and it’s all because of me. And ah should apologize to her.” Applejack then pulled Discord down. “Hey, what’s going –?” he said, awakened. “Thank you Discord; I couldn’t have done it without ya’!” “Well, you’re welcome. I was just only, well…wait, what there something I said?” Applejack galloped to find Rainbow Dash. Meanwhile, Fluttershy came back with some animal feed. “Hey Discord, where did Applejack go?” “I don’t know. She just woke me up, said thanks, and ther]” “And did she say anything to you before she left?” “I don’t know either. I think it’s about Rainbow Dash…? Nah, I’m going back to sleep” he teleported himself back up the tree. “Discord, have you forgotten we have some animals to take care of?” she said, shaking the tree “All right, all right, all right! I’m coming down.” Chapter 7: Still That Mare Morning sunshine creeps through Fluttershy’s windows, across her bedroom, all the way to Rainbow Dash, waking up the mare. She woke up with a hint of depression on her face after what happened between them. “Rainbow Dash, are you awake?” Fluttershy knocked. “H-huh?” she responded, “Uhh…yeah.” “I’ll be going to Applejack with Discord, if you don’t mind” she said, opening the door. “Yeah, it’s alright.” Rainbow Dash turned her head away from the sun, being careful with the wing, and trying to go back to sleep until Fluttershy spoke. “Oh, and by the way, somepony wants to see you.” “Hey, Dashie!” “What, oh, hi Pinkie.” “Sorry about what happened.” “It’s alright; it’s not your fault. She just, well, misunderstood me too much.” “And did you tried to explain it to her?” “I did, but she won’t let me.” “And how’s the wing?” “It’s a bit…fine.” “Say, maybe you could help me at Sugarcube Corner and then we could work it out. I can even ask Twilight for some help.” Rainbow Dash nodded as they both left the cottage and went on to Sugarcube Corner. Coincidentally, Twilight was just in front of the said bakery. “Hey Twilight, what’s up?” Pinkie Pie said. “Where’ve you been? I thought you promised to help me with the preparation of winter” said Twilight. “Don’t worry, I just went to Fluttershy’s cottage. I thought it’ll be fine to visit poor Rainbow Dash there.” “Poor? What happened?” “Oh, you know, it’s just a ‘problem’ with Applejack.” “Maybe I can help.” “That’s why we’re here. After she help me with the bakery, we thought we’ll go to you for some advice just to brighten up Rainbow Dash here.” Twilight just nodded and then went inside for the preparations for winter. She and Pinkie had quite a conversation while Rainbow Dash just sat there, attentively listening and not opening her mouth to say even a single word. “Say, Rainbow Dash, you haven’t been talking for a while.” “What…oh, it’s just that, uhhmmm…” “Well?” “It’s just that…uhm…Applejack…me…her…” “Don't worry; I already know.” “Wait, you do?” “Well, yeah, Discord told me and…” “Discord knew!?” “Well, yes…I mean, no…I mean, I don’t know.” Silence impelled within the three ponies for a while, and then Twilight spoke. “Did you try to talk with Applejack alone, I mean, ‘ALONE’ alone?” “Why should I? She won’t even speak to me every time I go near her. In fact, she even tries to get away from me.” “Maybe she needs to cool down. Try talking to her again, besides, it’s not like she’ll be mad at you forever (and if she is, well, that’s another thing). Look, everypony has a right to be angry at somepony, but at the same time that anger will just, well, fade down and then you’ll get back to it, I mean, she’s still that mare, right? And if she really loves you, she’ll be like running towards you and then apologizing.” Rainbow Dash nodded and then though for it for a second. “You know, she right” she said in her mind “She’s still that mare after all. And if she really loves me, she’ll forgive me no matter what.” “That’s it!” she said, her mood brightened up, “Thanks a lot for the help Twilight!” “You don’t need to compliment.” “I have to go to Applejack” she then trotted out of the bakery. “Go get ‘em Dashie!” She was about to look for AJ until… “Rainbow Dash!” “Applejack? Is that…?” Applejack ran towards Rainbow Dash, pushed her aside, and kissed her on the cheek. “Rainbow, ah just wanna say that I’m-“ “I’m sorry too, Applejack. This is partly my fault, I mean, if I just haven’t…” “Rainbow, listen, you did nothing wrong. Ah’m supposed to be the one saying that, not you.” “I know. Say, I need to go back to Fluttershy. I have to tell her something” she then ran (remember, she can’t fly right now) away from AJ and went to Fluttershy. Meanwhile, inside Sugarcube Corner… “Geez, Twilight, do you really need these books?” Pinkie said, staring at the tall seven stacks of books. “Yeah, of course; I need them to know how to prepare for winter properly.” Twilight answered. “Why does it have to be this many? I mean, you could just use two or three from these.” “The more resources I have, the easier things get.” “Yeah, right” Pinkie said, rolling her eyes. “Well, we can’t sit here doing nothing all the time” Twilight said, using her magic to lift two of the stacks. She went outside and saw Applejack chuckling. She went near her (too near, if you ask me) to talk. “Hey, Applejack, I heard what happened and I just wanna say that I’m-“ Her sentence was cut off by Applejack turning around and accidentally kissing Twilight (I told you she was too near). Twilight suddenly dropped the books by the event. “Hey, Applejack, have you seen where Flutters…” Applejack suddenly broke the kiss to prevent the rainbow-maned pony to see them, but it was too late. Chapter 8: Forgiveness Rainbow Dash stood frozen, her head full of mixed emotions. “Uhh…hey Rainbow, look I can…” “No…no!” “Wait, it’s not what you think it – “ “NO!!!” Rainbow Dash ran back to Fluttershy’s house as Applejack chased her. “Rainbow, wait!” Rainbow Dash just ignored her and instead galloped faster. Her vision starting to blur with all of her tears flowing from her eyes. Rainbow Dash decided to use her wings, though it’s very risky for somepony to fly with a broken wing. She attempted to fly a few feet but it didn’t quite go well. She just ignored the pain. Besides, she’s already hurt deep inside that her physical pain was just nothing to her. After several rises and falls, Rainbow Dash flew through the window and went right inside Fluttershy’s bedroom with a crash. She peered out of the window, looking down as Applejack stopped in front of the cottage and searched for Rainbow Dash with one of her hoof on her forehead. “Rainbow, where are you!?” she shouted. Only the wind whistling can be heard, however. “Rainbow please, can’t we all just talk about this!?” still no response. Applejack tried again but still no response from the rainbow Pegasus. Applejack bellowed two and three times and yet again no reply. AJ did not give up though. She then tried to look for Rainbow at the Everfree forest (“Maybe, just maybe, she’s there. Ah don’t care if it’s dark or spooky as long as I find Rainbow Dash.”) Rainbow watched the orange pony leave. Her head went back inside the room and lied down Fluttershy’s bed with tears streaming down her bruised cheeks. She covered herself with a blanket and wept loudly until somepony knocked. “Rainbow? Is…is everything alright?” Rainbow didn’t move. “Rainbow, I can hear you crying from downstairs. Is everything alright?” “Huh? Oh, uh…yeah Fluttershy. Everything’s perfectly fine.” Fluttershy opened the door. “Are you sure? ‘Cause I can help if there’s something wrong.” “No, I mean, yeah everything’s….everything’s all right” she said, revealing herself and wiping the tears from her eyes. “Oh my! Rainbow what happened to your face? It’s all scratched and bruised all over.” “It’s nothing; just…just a weird stunt, that’s all.” “Look, you can’t hide everything forever. Sometimes you need to share it someone, even your deepest struggles. I’m always here to listen. My ears were never too far. Just say it and I’ll do my best to help.” “You’ll really…help?” “Of course I will! There was never a day I left my friend alone." “Thanks Fluttershy. So it was like this…” Rainbow Dash told Fluttershy everything as she listened attentively to the mare's words, from the day she had a crush on her ‘till today. She hid nothing from Fluttershy. Everything was told. “And I just don’t know if I could just ‘get on with it’ I mean, it seems pretty hard to move on after being ‘friends’ again and then…it’s just…it’s just disturbing you see.” “If I were you, I’d just forgive her instantly. Everyone deserves to forgive and to be forgiven.” “I know. It’s just…it’s not that I don’t wanna forgive her. It’s just…so hard after the thing I saw, I mean…argh! Why is it so hard to explain!?” “You don’t need to explain. Just walk right up to her and say that you’re sorry.” “Why should I be sorry? She’s the one who – “ “It was just an accident. She tried to explain it to you but you ran away like an ignorant.” “Well, I guess I…wait, how did you know all these?” “Discord told me.” “Wait, he told you!?” “Well, yeah. I was also surprised that he knows these things well. So anyway, you need to go tell her that you’re sorry. It’s what friends do (of course, you’re both more than friends, so you should forgive her.” “Well, I uh…alright, thanks for the advice! It’s been a nice time talking with ‘ya.” Rainbow Dash then stood up and few out the window once more. And as expected, she fell straight down to the ground. “Don’t forget your sprained wing!” Fluttershy shouted. “Yeah, yeah” Rainbow replied. Rainbow Dash just trotted towards Sugarcube Corner instead. Meanwhile, back in Fluttershy’s house… “Is she gone?” “She’s gone. You can return to your normal self now.” The lampshade suddenly moved, grew, and jittered as it suddenly becomes Discord. “Thanks for the help, Discord. I couldn’t have done it without you.” “Well, you know, I just wanna straighten things up before the wedding.” “Wait, they’re married!?” “Maybe, but I’m sure they will…” Chapter 9: Be ThereBack at the Sugarcube Corner... “Vanilla again?” asked Pinkie. “But, Twilight, we always had vanilla cupcakes every winter! I mean, don’t you ever get tired by the same white flavor every year?” “Well” said Twilight “What would you suggest on the flavor of the cupcakes?” “I’d say strawberry!” “But does it match with the season?” “We’ll put vanilla in it then.” “No, it would ruin the flavor.” “Then what would you suggest?” “Hmm…I know! We’ll put vanilla in strawberry. That way, it would look very nice and attractive and we won't have to use the same old flavor again and again.” “Now, why didn’t I thought of that before?” “No time to waste. Leaves are already falling and the winds are starting to cool down.” The trees are now dead and everypony was busy preparing for the upcoming winter season, which would be probably tomorrow.. Twilight is coordinating the preparation, Pinkie Pie is making the cupcakes for dessert, Rarity is preparing some thick, cotton clothing, and Fluttershy (along with Discord) was preparing the animals for hibernation. As for Applejack, instead of working in the fields, she searched for Rainbow Dash at the Everfree Forest. She looked high and low, far and wide, above the clouds and under the tress, yet no sign of the pegasus anywhere. Rainbow Dash was also looking for Applejack until she stopped by at Sugarcube Corner, hoping she was there. “Hey, Rainbow! Oh my, what happened to your face? It’s all wounded and…” “No time to explain; has anypony seen Applejack?” “I saw her once, but then she was gone in a rush looking for you.” “Do you know where she is now?” “Well, no; not that I know of.” “Do you have any idea where she went!?” “Hey, calm down. I’ll try to ask somepony who knows where she is. Hey Pinkie, do you know where she went?” “I think so. The last time I saw here, she went to Everfree forest. I tried to call her, but she won’t notice me. You know how Applejack is when…” “She what!?” “Hey, it’s not nice shouting at someone while she’s talking.” “Oh no, I need to find her right now!” “We can go with you, if you want.” “No, I need to find her alone. It’s my fault she’s looking for me. If I only listened to her in the first place, she’d never enter a problem like this.” “Twilight’s right, Rainbow; it’s getting late and you know how dangerous it is to go into the forest at this time of the day. I mean, it’s the Everfree Forest. It’s big and spooky and full of trees and…” “Then I’d better be off now.” As Rainbow said this, she spread her wings and attempted to fly once more.("And there she goes, leaving while I'm talking. Did her parents even teach her manners?" she whispered to herself). “Wait Rainbow, your wings!” “I don’t care. I need to there as quick as I can.” Rainbow Dash flew so fast that she (almost) broke the sound barrier. She doesn’t care the pain surging in her wings. In fact, it’s like she doesn’t feel anything at all, except the wind and leaves wheezing at her face. The sun was already halfway down the moment she got to the forest. Although the sun is still shining brightly, it’s like nighttime already there. She got on her hooves and ran to look for the orange pony. “Applejack!” she shouted “Where are you?” But there was no response, only the breeze. “Applejack!? Look, I’m sorry ok? I know I’ve been rude towards you recently. Just come out wherever you are. It’s getting dark, Applejack!” Still, there’s no sign of Applejack anywhere. Meanwhile, on the other side of the Everfree Forest… “Rainbow Dash?” shouted Applejack. “Are ‘ya anywhere here?” No sign of the cyan pony anywhere. “Rainbow Dash, please. Ah don’t know where to look for you anymore. It’s almost night time and I’m getting scared. Please, Rainbow…” And again, no sign of Rainbow Dash anywhere. Applejack was getting tired of looking for Rainbow Dash for hours so she decided to sit down beside the nearest tree and slept. It was getting windy, which means that winter evening is about to fall sooner or later. Without Applejack’s knowledge (she’s too sleepy to know what’s going on) the wind took her hat and tossed it high nearly above the trees. It’s already night. The moon glistened brightly in the liquid sky. Everypony went inside preparing for the snowfall sooner or later, the animals slept quietly inside each tree, and grass started to fade down. The wind howled cool and quiet as Rainbow Dash was still looking for Applejack. “Applejack, it’s already night!” she shouted “Applejack where are you?” And like always, nothing was heard. Only the wind and some leaves cracking. “Oh no, maybe something bad happened to her” she thought. “She might be trapped now, or maybe stuck under a tree trunk, or maybe…” Her thoughts were suddenly abridged as a brown straw hat fell from above and to her face. She took the hat from her face. “Wait, this is Applejack’s. Then it must mean…” Rainbow Dash quickly ran as fast as she could to find the source of the hat. She looked far and wide, high and low; she even attempted to find Applejack at the Tree of Harmony. Rainbow Dash decided to fly above the forest (by the way, her wings are feeling a bit fine) and searched for her below the clouds. After a few minutes of flying, she found her still asleep. “Applejack!” she cried, thinking she was dead. Rainbow shifted down abruptly and took the sleeping mare in her hooves. “Applejack! Are you alright?” “Hh-huh? Rainbow Dash, is that you?” “Oh Applejack, I’m so sorry…” “It’s alright. Ah was just sleeping.” “Why were you sleeping like that? You really scared, you know.” “I’m just tired. 'Ya know, looking all over Equestria for you. I’m sorry on how I acted earlier.” “It’s not your fault; I was the one being the rude one and I should be the one saying sorry. Besides, I was the one who got you into this mess the first place.” “Say, I don’t mean to interrupt but it’s getting cold out here. Maybe we should stop by at my house, ‘ya think?” “Well, yeah, maybe we should. Hey, Applejack, I’ve been thinking for a while and…” “Well?” “Well…it’s just that you’re…I mean we should, well…uhh…” “Come on; Just tell me and don’t be shy. I’m list’ning.” “Applejack, is it too early to say…uhmm…will you…marry me?” “Oh, uhm…Rainbow Dash, I can’t…well…it’s not that I don’t…uhh…I don’t know.” “It’s alright for me if you don’t want.” “It’s just that…isn’t it too awkward for two mares to marry?” “Well…do you love me?” “Of course ah do!” “I love you too. Is that awkward?” “Well…no.” “Then would you?” “What'd ya’ think will I answer?” “Uhmm…yes?” “Then it's yes indeed.” Rainbow Dash was brightened by the words of Applejack. She suddenly leaped on the farmer, hugged her and kissed her. “I love you Applejack, and I’ll always will.” “I love ya too Rainbow Dash.” “Oh look, it’s snowing already.” “We’d better go back now. Why not stay at our house?” Meanwhile, behind Rainbow Dash and Applejack… “Did it work?” “Yes it did. Wow Discord, I didn’t know you were in to these things, I mean, you know where is Rainbow Dash and Applejack, you know how to bring them back, and you can make wind out of your breath.” “Oh, you know, just wanna see them happy and just straightening things up.” “So, this is the marriage you’re talking about?” “I know and…hey, it’s snowing already.” “Oh my, we better go inside before it gets any worse.” “Maybe we should. And when we get back, let’s prepare the wedding ceremony.” “Oh you…” Epilogue: GoldSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.Chapter 2: In Sync“What’s that sugar cube?” Applejack asked. “I said I have a ‘strange feeling’ towards you” Rainbow Dash exclaimed. “Really?” said AJ. “What kind of feeling?” “Well…” said Rainbow Dash in a flirty tone, “The ‘feeling’.” Applejack didn't understand what Rainbow Dash said, but she just pretended she did just so that Rainbow could end this conversation. “Say, Applejack, what’ wrong? You haven’t been smiling lately.” “It’s just…” sighed Applejack. “It’s just that I’ve been living without parents for a long time now, and I managed to survive without parents, but…” “But what?” “But how ‘bout Applebloom?” AJ said with tears rolling down her cheeks. “She never had a chance to see what mom and dad’s faces were like. She keeps nagging me every day when she sees other fillies with parents, asking me if we have parents. I just can’t explain what happened. She’s still a filly, and she may not understand yet.” Rainbow Dash can’t help but cry a bit also, especially with a tragedy like that. Applejack felt like she’s the only one in her six friends who doesn't have parents (I don’t know about Fluttershy, but whatever). It hurts to see her parents die at her young age. “Hey, don’t cry” whispered Rainbow “I’m here for you, no matter what. And besides, we’re not just your friends, we’re your family.” “Thanks” said AJ as Rainbow wiped the tears from her eyes. “Mind if I hug?” Rainbow just responded by hugging Applejack. Suddenly, the ‘embers’ inside Rainbow started to spark more. In fact, it’s now as if Rainbow’s heartbeat was in sync with AJ’s. The hug felt like it lasted for hours, though it was only 3 minutes. “Thanks again for the comfort Rainbow” she smiled “I’d better go home now. Granny Smith must be beginning to worry.” Rainbow Dash saw Applejack ran off. “Bye Applejack” shouted Rainbow. “I love you!” But it was too late. Applejack’s now too far for her to hear what Rainbow said. “Duh, why did I say that!?” said Rainbow as she slapped herself. “Well, at least I got a hug from her. That’s enough for me.” Rainbow Dash flew off to the nearest cloud, happy with the hug she received from Applejack, although deep inside her, she wanted more than a hug from Applejack.
Chapter 1: Embers “I don’t know, Applejack” said Twilight “But the new castle sure is nice. And also, each of you gets to have their throne.” “Well, ahm just happy you finally got yourself your own palace” said Applejack “I mean, that’s what a princess needs, right? Wait, has anypony seen Pinkie Pie?” "She went to visit Maud." It was just a fine day with the so-called “mane 6” having a picnic near (but not too near) the Everfree forest. Twilight, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash were under the shade of the tree while Rarity and Fluttershy were under the sun having a chat. “It’s getting late” said Rainbow Dash waking up from her sleep, “Shouldn’t we all be going home?” “Well, ah do love evening picnics” replied Applejack. “And besides, it’s still too early for Princess Luna to raise the moon” said Twilight. Rainbow Dash really wanted to go home, but deep inside her, she doesn’t. She wants to spend more time with Applejack but she can’t because of her other friends present. She wanted to say her feelings towards her, but she can’t because Twilight may overhear it. “Well, its sunset” exclaimed the impatient mare “And it’s about time we all go home.” “She’s right, you know” said Fluttershy from behind “It’s getting dark lately and, well…uh…the dark…it’s um…” “Fluttershy has a point” said Rarity “It’s way too dangerous for us to go home this night, especially if the Everfree forest is just…behind…us…” The other ponies turned their head around to look at the forest behind them. Clearly, the forest looks a lot creepier in night than in day. Fluttershy just can’t help imaging what creatures may live in the Everfree forest during the night: elves, dwarves, fairies, and other magical creatures. “I think we should go home now” squealed Fluttershy “Who knows what dangerous little dwarf might come out?” “Relax, Flutters” said Rainbow Dash “And who told you that there’s dwarves in the Everfree forest?” “My…conscience…” “Well, we should pack up now” sighed Twilight “Seems like Princess Luna is about to lift the moon.” Everyone head of to their own houses, except for Applejack who stayed behind. “Are you sure you’ll be alright there, Applejack?” asked Rainbow. “Nah, I’m fine” answered AJ. “I just wanna be alone here.” Applejack lie down beside a tree, while others are walking home. She enjoyed this time for herself, under the blue moon, being swayed by the cool evening breeze; it’s one way to comfort her during hard times. Applejack sighed as the events of the past flashed back to her: the fire, the foal, her parents, and the scream; the event somehow bruised her heart. Applejack is a strong mare but she has a dark life; having no parents and raising up Applebloom all by herself is no joke. “Stop spying on me Rainbow” she said “I know you’re behind me." "Well,” Rainbow chuckled “It’s just that I can’t help see you all alone with that look on your face.” “What look? I’m perfectly fine, and shouldn’t you be in your home right now?” “Every where’s my home, as long as there are clouds, remember?” Rainbow Dash decided to lie down beside Applejack. Rainbow suddenly felt a spark somewhere in her chest, as if some sort of embers staring to trigger inside her. She can’t help but blush faintly and turn her head away from Applejack. “Are you alright, Rainbow?” AJ asked. “What?” she answered with a faint blush “I, uhh, umm…well it’s just that…uhh…mmm…” “Seriously, what’s happenin’ to ya’?” “Well, it’s that I have a…” Rainbow tried to think twice about the words that will come out of her mouth. “You have a what?” AJ cocked an eyebrow. “I have a, let’s just say, ‘strange feeling’ on somepony else.” “And who’s that somepony?” “Well, it’s…it’s…” “Come on, sugarcube, just say it!” “Alright, it’s you…!” Rainbow Dash quickly covered her mouth with her hooves and started to heat up.
Chapter 3: Ciders“Hey, Rainbow Dash!!!” “Huh, what?” said the awakened mare. “Pinkie, what are you doing here this early in the morning? And I thought you were staying with Maud?” “I am” beamed Pinkie. “She’s at Sugarcube Corner, and you promised to help Applejack at her barn right now. Apples don’t just pick by themselves, you know?” “Well, give me five more minutes” yawned Rainbow. “It’s too early to pick some apples.” She was about to resume her slumber when she was grabbed by a roped and pulled down from her cloud. “Hey, watch the wing!” “There’s no more five minutes Rainbow!” said Applejack, “Now that the leaves started to turn brown.” “Well, you don’t have to hit my head to the ground, Applejack!” Applejack just turned her back towards Rainbow Dash and started to gallop towards Sweet Apple Acres. Rainbow Dash followed but Pinkie stayed behind. “Aren’t you coming with us?” asked Rainbow. “Of course I will!” said Pinkie “I just need to get some help, duh.” “Fine, but hurry up.” It was noon by the time they reached Sweet Apple Acres. Pinkie Pie brought Maud with her. Rainbow Dash went with Applejack on the left side of the farm, and Pinkie Pie and Maud worked on the right side. As hours go by, Rainbow Dash doesn’t seem to help. She did catch a few apples though, but all she did was to stare at Applejack’s eyes, hair, and tail. Sometimes, she’d bump into a tree and wake up from her daydreaming. Then again, she’ll daydream again. Applejack already has about seven baskets full of apples, while Rainbow Dash doesn’t even have a single basket full. “Applejack~” said Rainbow in a somewhat “turned on” tone. “You sure do like Applejack!” “What, huh!?” said Rainbow, finally waking up. “Pinkie, what are you doing here? Aren’t you supposed to be on the right side of the farm?” “Well, I should be” chuckled Pinkie. “But I can’t help notice you staring at Applejack for like four hours. Look, you only have a half-full basket of apples. And I can’t help also notice that you’re drooling with your tongue out and always losing your track. I mean, snap out of it, and don’t tell me you’re in love with Applejack, are you?” “Well, I uh…” blushed Rainbow “It’s just, you know…” “Hmmm…” said Pinkie with her hoof on her chin, “Hot tummy, sweaty forehead, red cheeks, that feeling of turned on in your eyes; Aha! I knew it!” “Okay, okay!” shushed Rainbow, “I admit. I’m in love with Applejack.” “Aww…isn’t that cute Maud?” Maud didn’t respond. “I know. They’ll make a perfect couple!” grinned Pinkie. “I mean” said Rainbow with a sprightly voice, “Who can stand those pure emerald eyes, that soft, orange fur, that honest and hardworking personality of hers, that…owww! Why’d you smacked me for?” “Just making sure you’re awake!” “Yeah, right!” Rainbow Dash went back to work, as well as Pinkie and Maud until sunset came. “Whew!” said Applejack “Well thanks everpony for lending a hoof: Pinkie, Rainbow, and Maud. How ‘bout some cider?” “Sure!” said Pinkie and Rainbow. “How ‘bout you, Maud?” “Nah, I’m good.” “Alright, why don’t y’all come inside for some cider?”
Chapter 4: The Paradigm “Hey, Pinkie” said Applejack, taking a sip from her cup, “Where did Maud go?” “Oh, she went home” Pinkie answered. “She said she’s reeeeeaaaaaally tired.” “Yeah” chuckled Rainbow Dash, “That’s what she said.” “Oh, don’t be silly. She’s not like me: gets easily tired, sleeps a lot. Well, she is tired from that trip of hers.” “What trip?” “I don’t know.” “Well, how did you know that she’s tired?” “I don’t” she then whispered at Rainbow’s ear, “I feel she’s tired.” “Feel she’s tired? Is that even possible?” “Well, we are sisters. And speaking of feels, who don’t you say ‘her’ what you’re feeling right now?” “Huh?” said the confused pegasus. She was about to ask another question when Pinkie answered her by giving her the “look”. “Oh, Oh, uhh…” said Rainbow. “I don’t know, Pinkie. What if ‘she’ doesn’t feel the same way as I do?” “Nonsense, I mean…oh wait” Pinkie then grabbed Rainbow’s left hoof and dragged her outside. “Mind if we talk outside Applejack?” “Uhh…” said Applejack, with a hint of "jealousy" in her voice. “Uhmm…sure.” Pinkie then threw Rainbow deep into the apple forest. “Owww! Hey, what’s that for?” said Rainbow. “Ssshhh…” whispered Pinkie. “Alright, I have a plan.” “What kind of plan?” “It’s not just any plan, I have a great paradigm stored in my head all these years. I haven’t been using it just in case this time showed up.” “You have what now on your head?” “A paradigm: some sort of good plan. I know, it’s too ‘deep’ for you to understand, but this is the best way I can describe you how ‘good’ the plan is.” “So, what’s the plan?” Pinkie Pie turned her head around to make sure that no one is watching them. Then, she whispered at her ear the plan. As Rainbow hears of this “paradigm” she somehow started to blush and heat up again until she reacted violently. “Wait, no, I’m not doing that!” she screamed. “Not too loud” Pinkie susurrated. “And besides, didn’t you told me once that you’ve waited long to do that ‘thing’ with her?” “Well, yes and no. Yes, because I have a crush on her. No, ‘cause what would she think about me once she found out?” “Well, it’s now your fault if everything went wrong, as long as I gave my best opinion.” “That’s your best? I mean, can there be anything better like that? Like we can just have a chat or something?” “Rainbow!? Pinkie!?” “Here she comes!” she pushed Rainbow towards Applejack. “And don’t forget the plan!” “Pinkie Pie, wai-…oh, hi Applejack.” “Rainbow, where have y’all been? And where’s Pinkie?” “Oh, uh…mmm…can we…can we talk?” “About what?” Applejack cocked an eyebrow. “About something…” “Uhh…okay, but not here. I have a sleeping family behind me, 'ya know?” Rainbow Dash nodded as they went deep into Applejack’s farm. Pinkie tip-toed (or tip-hoofed; I don't know) behind them to see if the plan was going perfectly well. “Listen, Applejack, I have to tell you something.” “I’m list’ning.” “Well, I have this strange thing that’s keeping me, you know, ‘disturbed’ for like seven weeks now.” “What?” Applejack doesn’t seem to understand (although inside her, she does). “It’s…uhh… It’s umm… (How in Equestria do I say this to Applejack!?)” “What’s that yer tryin’ to say?” “Oh, it’s umm…ouch!” she said as Pinkie Pie threw her an apple from behind. “Are ya' alright, sugar cube?” “Yeah, I’m fine. It’s just that, well, how would you react when you found out that one of your closes friend somehow ‘likes’ you more than a friend?” “Well, as fo' me, that's the cutest thing I’ve ever saw.” “Really?” Rainbow Dash felt that there’s something burning up inside her. “Why’d ‘ya ask by the way?” “Well, ‘cause I heard that someone here likes you.” “Really?” Applejack also felt something burning inside her. “Well, who is it?" Rainbow Dash suddenly went red by the words she heard from her "marefriend". "Tell me, I won’t be mad.” “How about I show you?” “Huh?” Applejack raised an eyebrow when suddenly Rainbow blushed and leaned in to kiss Applejack. Applejack was surprised by what Rainbow did, but she then closed her eyes and just let Rainbow's lips touch hers. Rainbow Dash felt like she’s floating in another world. Applejack felt the same also. Then, Applejack suddenly broke the kiss, with cheeks madly red while Pinkie Pie is secretly laughing behind a tree by the sight. “Rainbow, I…”
Chapter 5: Who You Say You Are “Oh, uhh, uhmm…” Rainbow Dash was ashamed after what she did. She started to walk slowly backwards, thinking that Applejack hates her now that she knows the truth. “Applejack, I…I think I should be going now. It’s midnight and…” “Wait” Applejack grabbed her hoof. “How long have ya’ been feelin' this, well, feeling towards me?” “It’s umm…it’s about a year now and-“ “And ‘ya didn’t tell me about this?” “I was afraid you might get mad at me for this.” Applejack leaned in and kissed Rainbow Dash’s red hot cheeks. “Do I look like ahm mad to ‘ya?” she said with her eyelids half-way open. Rainbow Dash stood frozen. “So, you’re saying that you…you really like me?” “Like what?” “Like…like…” Rainbow can’t process thoroughly what she’s about to say, “Like LIKE me.” “Huh?” “You know, like…LIKE you.” “Like…like…like a friend?” “More than a friend.” Applejack started to heat up as the orange pony turned red. “’Ya really feel this way 'bout me?” “I don’t know, I mean, I…I really...I like, I mean, love. I mean...It's just...uhh...” “Now, don’t ya' say another word” she said, putting a hoof on Rainbow Dash’s lips. “I know what ‘ya mean.” “Really!?” Rainbow Dash stared at Applejack. The farmer’s emerald eyes glistened by the blue moonlight shining overhead of her. “She’s so beautiful” Rainbow thought. Applejack also stared at the mare’s magenta eyes, trying to think a question just to break the ice. The cool wind howled at the mares as if there was a staring contest happening. Everything was quiet. The only thing heard is the wind moving, the trees swaying, the leaves cracking, and Pinkie Pie eating apples behind a distant tree “Say, Rainbow” she said, breaking the silence, “I know this is a really weird question, but, do ya’…love me?” “What kind of question is that? I mean, of course I do! I love you for" she was trying to describe her love towards her but she can't find the appropriate words. "For uhm…” “For what?” “For...for who you say you are!” “For who ah say ah am!?” Applejack said, a bit confused (“I don’t get it.”) Another silenced spurred the two confused ponies. “Well, to make things clearer, try describing yourself.” “Well, ah'm…ah'm honest, diligent, hardworking…” “And I love you because of that!” “Because of what?” “Right now, you said who you are, and I love you just like that!” “Really? This…this is how you…love me?” “Well…yeah! For so long and I thought you will like rage out because of this, but now I know what you feel, I think it’s time for me to…” Rainbow Dash was about to, let’s say, “engage” to Applejack (wow, the story’s going too fast, or is it?) when Applejack shouted. “Time!? Oh gosh, I forgot, it’s midnight and I have to wake up early to sell ‘em apples!” Applejack rushed back inside her home. “Bye Applejack, I LOVE YOU!” she shouted. I think Applejack heard what she said 'cause she slowed down and then continued running. Rainbow stood still as she watched AJ going inside. Rainbow Dash went out of the apple forest until Pinkie suddenly jumped from behind the bush towards her back, laying Rainbow Dash on top of her. “Wooow, Rainbow, that was sssoooooo cute!” she grinned. “I knew you could do it!” “Well, I can't do it without you, Pinkie.” “You don’t need to return the favor; just trying to help my friend, that’s all!” “Hey, Rainbow, ah forgot to ask if ‘ya can help me with…” Applejack went back outside and was shocked and angry to see Pinkie Pie standing on top of Rainbow Dash. “Rainbow…Dash!” she said, her eyes beginning to moist. Rainbow Dash can’t move, she doesn't know what to say or what she’ll do. “Uhh…I think I…I should be going…home” Pinkie said, running.
Chapter 6: Shattered And Repaired “Uhh…hey Applejack, why are you...still here?” Rainbow said, trying to convince Applejack that everything was just a mistake. “The question is why are you two still here!?” Applejack cried. “Hey, calm down, I can expla-“ “Ya’ don’t need to explain. I’ve seen everything for myself with mah very own eyes.” “Wait, Applejack! It’s not what you think it is. It’s just a…” “Misunderstanding? Yes, it was, but why do ya' need to play with mah emotions like this?” Rainbow Dash stood still; jumbled, mixed up, confused, and filled with guilt. “Everything you said back there…you lied!” “No, it wasn’t. It’s all true. I really…love you!” “Just…just stop it Rainbow, before you further-“ “Applejack,” she said grabbing her hoof “Listen to me: we have no relationship with Pinkie Pie. Everything you saw is…well, not what you think it is.” “Yeah, right!” she shouted, slipping her hoof away from Rainbow's “No, really!” “Just…just go home Rainbow. Ah had enough of you.” “But, Applejack…” Applejack didn’t say another word. She went inside her house, wet with tears, her heart shattered like glass. “I…love…you…” Rainbow Dash flew away, crying and fully depressed. Sometimes, she’d bump into a tree and then fall into the ground, but she managed to stand up and continue flying until she broke her right wing. She went to the nearest house—which is Fluttershy’s cottage—to stay for the night until her wing heals. The next morning, Applejack went out to sell her apples. Her head was aching about the incident last night, still crying. She went out until she heard a voice from one of the tree “Hello, there Applejack! I see that you woke up as early as I did.” “Wait, what was…Discord! What in Equestria are you doing up there in our roof?” “Oh, hi Applejack” said Fluttershy. “Discord is here to help me with the hibernation of some animals. You don’t mind, do you?” “Not at all” she replied, with a low melancholy tone. “Thanks. I’ll be gone for a while to get something. I’ll be right back Discord.” “Bye Fluttershy!” he said, waving at her. “Say, Applejack, you don’t seem well today. By the way, have you heard about the thing happened to Rainbow Dash? That pony needs to be careful next she’s flying through the Everfree forest. We found her last night just lying around outside the forest and she was like…you’re not listening, are you?” “Like ah care." Applejack said with frustration. “Well, suit yourself!” he said, lying on one of the branches of a tree. “Time to test these shades Fluttershy found for me.” “I mean, why would anyone ‘care’ for someone breaking your heart after saying your feelings towards her?” she said to Discord, but unknown to Applejack, Discord was already sleeping. “Not speaking, are ‘ya? Well, if ya’ think you’re helpin’, you’re not. I mean, everything…is a misunderstanding…” she was starting to be reinstated. “And ah think I was too harsh on her, ah didn’t even give her a chance to speak, and it’s all because of me. And ah should apologize to her.” Applejack then pulled Discord down. “Hey, what’s going –?” he said, awakened. “Thank you Discord; I couldn’t have done it without ya’!” “Well, you’re welcome. I was just only, well…wait, what there something I said?” Applejack galloped to find Rainbow Dash. Meanwhile, Fluttershy came back with some animal feed. “Hey Discord, where did Applejack go?” “I don’t know. She just woke me up, said thanks, and ther]” “And did she say anything to you before she left?” “I don’t know either. I think it’s about Rainbow Dash…? Nah, I’m going back to sleep” he teleported himself back up the tree. “Discord, have you forgotten we have some animals to take care of?” she said, shaking the tree “All right, all right, all right! I’m coming down.”
Chapter 7: Still That Mare Morning sunshine creeps through Fluttershy’s windows, across her bedroom, all the way to Rainbow Dash, waking up the mare. She woke up with a hint of depression on her face after what happened between them. “Rainbow Dash, are you awake?” Fluttershy knocked. “H-huh?” she responded, “Uhh…yeah.” “I’ll be going to Applejack with Discord, if you don’t mind” she said, opening the door. “Yeah, it’s alright.” Rainbow Dash turned her head away from the sun, being careful with the wing, and trying to go back to sleep until Fluttershy spoke. “Oh, and by the way, somepony wants to see you.” “Hey, Dashie!” “What, oh, hi Pinkie.” “Sorry about what happened.” “It’s alright; it’s not your fault. She just, well, misunderstood me too much.” “And did you tried to explain it to her?” “I did, but she won’t let me.” “And how’s the wing?” “It’s a bit…fine.” “Say, maybe you could help me at Sugarcube Corner and then we could work it out. I can even ask Twilight for some help.” Rainbow Dash nodded as they both left the cottage and went on to Sugarcube Corner. Coincidentally, Twilight was just in front of the said bakery. “Hey Twilight, what’s up?” Pinkie Pie said. “Where’ve you been? I thought you promised to help me with the preparation of winter” said Twilight. “Don’t worry, I just went to Fluttershy’s cottage. I thought it’ll be fine to visit poor Rainbow Dash there.” “Poor? What happened?” “Oh, you know, it’s just a ‘problem’ with Applejack.” “Maybe I can help.” “That’s why we’re here. After she help me with the bakery, we thought we’ll go to you for some advice just to brighten up Rainbow Dash here.” Twilight just nodded and then went inside for the preparations for winter. She and Pinkie had quite a conversation while Rainbow Dash just sat there, attentively listening and not opening her mouth to say even a single word. “Say, Rainbow Dash, you haven’t been talking for a while.” “What…oh, it’s just that, uhhmmm…” “Well?” “It’s just that…uhm…Applejack…me…her…” “Don't worry; I already know.” “Wait, you do?” “Well, yeah, Discord told me and…” “Discord knew!?” “Well, yes…I mean, no…I mean, I don’t know.” Silence impelled within the three ponies for a while, and then Twilight spoke. “Did you try to talk with Applejack alone, I mean, ‘ALONE’ alone?” “Why should I? She won’t even speak to me every time I go near her. In fact, she even tries to get away from me.” “Maybe she needs to cool down. Try talking to her again, besides, it’s not like she’ll be mad at you forever (and if she is, well, that’s another thing). Look, everypony has a right to be angry at somepony, but at the same time that anger will just, well, fade down and then you’ll get back to it, I mean, she’s still that mare, right? And if she really loves you, she’ll be like running towards you and then apologizing.” Rainbow Dash nodded and then though for it for a second. “You know, she right” she said in her mind “She’s still that mare after all. And if she really loves me, she’ll forgive me no matter what.” “That’s it!” she said, her mood brightened up, “Thanks a lot for the help Twilight!” “You don’t need to compliment.” “I have to go to Applejack” she then trotted out of the bakery. “Go get ‘em Dashie!” She was about to look for AJ until… “Rainbow Dash!” “Applejack? Is that…?” Applejack ran towards Rainbow Dash, pushed her aside, and kissed her on the cheek. “Rainbow, ah just wanna say that I’m-“ “I’m sorry too, Applejack. This is partly my fault, I mean, if I just haven’t…” “Rainbow, listen, you did nothing wrong. Ah’m supposed to be the one saying that, not you.” “I know. Say, I need to go back to Fluttershy. I have to tell her something” she then ran (remember, she can’t fly right now) away from AJ and went to Fluttershy. Meanwhile, inside Sugarcube Corner… “Geez, Twilight, do you really need these books?” Pinkie said, staring at the tall seven stacks of books. “Yeah, of course; I need them to know how to prepare for winter properly.” Twilight answered. “Why does it have to be this many? I mean, you could just use two or three from these.” “The more resources I have, the easier things get.” “Yeah, right” Pinkie said, rolling her eyes. “Well, we can’t sit here doing nothing all the time” Twilight said, using her magic to lift two of the stacks. She went outside and saw Applejack chuckling. She went near her (too near, if you ask me) to talk. “Hey, Applejack, I heard what happened and I just wanna say that I’m-“ Her sentence was cut off by Applejack turning around and accidentally kissing Twilight (I told you she was too near). Twilight suddenly dropped the books by the event. “Hey, Applejack, have you seen where Flutters…” Applejack suddenly broke the kiss to prevent the rainbow-maned pony to see them, but it was too late.
Chapter 8: Forgiveness Rainbow Dash stood frozen, her head full of mixed emotions. “Uhh…hey Rainbow, look I can…” “No…no!” “Wait, it’s not what you think it – “ “NO!!!” Rainbow Dash ran back to Fluttershy’s house as Applejack chased her. “Rainbow, wait!” Rainbow Dash just ignored her and instead galloped faster. Her vision starting to blur with all of her tears flowing from her eyes. Rainbow Dash decided to use her wings, though it’s very risky for somepony to fly with a broken wing. She attempted to fly a few feet but it didn’t quite go well. She just ignored the pain. Besides, she’s already hurt deep inside that her physical pain was just nothing to her. After several rises and falls, Rainbow Dash flew through the window and went right inside Fluttershy’s bedroom with a crash. She peered out of the window, looking down as Applejack stopped in front of the cottage and searched for Rainbow Dash with one of her hoof on her forehead. “Rainbow, where are you!?” she shouted. Only the wind whistling can be heard, however. “Rainbow please, can’t we all just talk about this!?” still no response. Applejack tried again but still no response from the rainbow Pegasus. Applejack bellowed two and three times and yet again no reply. AJ did not give up though. She then tried to look for Rainbow at the Everfree forest (“Maybe, just maybe, she’s there. Ah don’t care if it’s dark or spooky as long as I find Rainbow Dash.”) Rainbow watched the orange pony leave. Her head went back inside the room and lied down Fluttershy’s bed with tears streaming down her bruised cheeks. She covered herself with a blanket and wept loudly until somepony knocked. “Rainbow? Is…is everything alright?” Rainbow didn’t move. “Rainbow, I can hear you crying from downstairs. Is everything alright?” “Huh? Oh, uh…yeah Fluttershy. Everything’s perfectly fine.” Fluttershy opened the door. “Are you sure? ‘Cause I can help if there’s something wrong.” “No, I mean, yeah everything’s….everything’s all right” she said, revealing herself and wiping the tears from her eyes. “Oh my! Rainbow what happened to your face? It’s all scratched and bruised all over.” “It’s nothing; just…just a weird stunt, that’s all.” “Look, you can’t hide everything forever. Sometimes you need to share it someone, even your deepest struggles. I’m always here to listen. My ears were never too far. Just say it and I’ll do my best to help.” “You’ll really…help?” “Of course I will! There was never a day I left my friend alone." “Thanks Fluttershy. So it was like this…” Rainbow Dash told Fluttershy everything as she listened attentively to the mare's words, from the day she had a crush on her ‘till today. She hid nothing from Fluttershy. Everything was told. “And I just don’t know if I could just ‘get on with it’ I mean, it seems pretty hard to move on after being ‘friends’ again and then…it’s just…it’s just disturbing you see.” “If I were you, I’d just forgive her instantly. Everyone deserves to forgive and to be forgiven.” “I know. It’s just…it’s not that I don’t wanna forgive her. It’s just…so hard after the thing I saw, I mean…argh! Why is it so hard to explain!?” “You don’t need to explain. Just walk right up to her and say that you’re sorry.” “Why should I be sorry? She’s the one who – “ “It was just an accident. She tried to explain it to you but you ran away like an ignorant.” “Well, I guess I…wait, how did you know all these?” “Discord told me.” “Wait, he told you!?” “Well, yeah. I was also surprised that he knows these things well. So anyway, you need to go tell her that you’re sorry. It’s what friends do (of course, you’re both more than friends, so you should forgive her.” “Well, I uh…alright, thanks for the advice! It’s been a nice time talking with ‘ya.” Rainbow Dash then stood up and few out the window once more. And as expected, she fell straight down to the ground. “Don’t forget your sprained wing!” Fluttershy shouted. “Yeah, yeah” Rainbow replied. Rainbow Dash just trotted towards Sugarcube Corner instead. Meanwhile, back in Fluttershy’s house… “Is she gone?” “She’s gone. You can return to your normal self now.” The lampshade suddenly moved, grew, and jittered as it suddenly becomes Discord. “Thanks for the help, Discord. I couldn’t have done it without you.” “Well, you know, I just wanna straighten things up before the wedding.” “Wait, they’re married!?” “Maybe, but I’m sure they will…”
Chapter 9: Be ThereBack at the Sugarcube Corner... “Vanilla again?” asked Pinkie. “But, Twilight, we always had vanilla cupcakes every winter! I mean, don’t you ever get tired by the same white flavor every year?” “Well” said Twilight “What would you suggest on the flavor of the cupcakes?” “I’d say strawberry!” “But does it match with the season?” “We’ll put vanilla in it then.” “No, it would ruin the flavor.” “Then what would you suggest?” “Hmm…I know! We’ll put vanilla in strawberry. That way, it would look very nice and attractive and we won't have to use the same old flavor again and again.” “Now, why didn’t I thought of that before?” “No time to waste. Leaves are already falling and the winds are starting to cool down.” The trees are now dead and everypony was busy preparing for the upcoming winter season, which would be probably tomorrow.. Twilight is coordinating the preparation, Pinkie Pie is making the cupcakes for dessert, Rarity is preparing some thick, cotton clothing, and Fluttershy (along with Discord) was preparing the animals for hibernation. As for Applejack, instead of working in the fields, she searched for Rainbow Dash at the Everfree Forest. She looked high and low, far and wide, above the clouds and under the tress, yet no sign of the pegasus anywhere. Rainbow Dash was also looking for Applejack until she stopped by at Sugarcube Corner, hoping she was there. “Hey, Rainbow! Oh my, what happened to your face? It’s all wounded and…” “No time to explain; has anypony seen Applejack?” “I saw her once, but then she was gone in a rush looking for you.” “Do you know where she is now?” “Well, no; not that I know of.” “Do you have any idea where she went!?” “Hey, calm down. I’ll try to ask somepony who knows where she is. Hey Pinkie, do you know where she went?” “I think so. The last time I saw here, she went to Everfree forest. I tried to call her, but she won’t notice me. You know how Applejack is when…” “She what!?” “Hey, it’s not nice shouting at someone while she’s talking.” “Oh no, I need to find her right now!” “We can go with you, if you want.” “No, I need to find her alone. It’s my fault she’s looking for me. If I only listened to her in the first place, she’d never enter a problem like this.” “Twilight’s right, Rainbow; it’s getting late and you know how dangerous it is to go into the forest at this time of the day. I mean, it’s the Everfree Forest. It’s big and spooky and full of trees and…” “Then I’d better be off now.” As Rainbow said this, she spread her wings and attempted to fly once more.("And there she goes, leaving while I'm talking. Did her parents even teach her manners?" she whispered to herself). “Wait Rainbow, your wings!” “I don’t care. I need to there as quick as I can.” Rainbow Dash flew so fast that she (almost) broke the sound barrier. She doesn’t care the pain surging in her wings. In fact, it’s like she doesn’t feel anything at all, except the wind and leaves wheezing at her face. The sun was already halfway down the moment she got to the forest. Although the sun is still shining brightly, it’s like nighttime already there. She got on her hooves and ran to look for the orange pony. “Applejack!” she shouted “Where are you?” But there was no response, only the breeze. “Applejack!? Look, I’m sorry ok? I know I’ve been rude towards you recently. Just come out wherever you are. It’s getting dark, Applejack!” Still, there’s no sign of Applejack anywhere. Meanwhile, on the other side of the Everfree Forest… “Rainbow Dash?” shouted Applejack. “Are ‘ya anywhere here?” No sign of the cyan pony anywhere. “Rainbow Dash, please. Ah don’t know where to look for you anymore. It’s almost night time and I’m getting scared. Please, Rainbow…” And again, no sign of Rainbow Dash anywhere. Applejack was getting tired of looking for Rainbow Dash for hours so she decided to sit down beside the nearest tree and slept. It was getting windy, which means that winter evening is about to fall sooner or later. Without Applejack’s knowledge (she’s too sleepy to know what’s going on) the wind took her hat and tossed it high nearly above the trees. It’s already night. The moon glistened brightly in the liquid sky. Everypony went inside preparing for the snowfall sooner or later, the animals slept quietly inside each tree, and grass started to fade down. The wind howled cool and quiet as Rainbow Dash was still looking for Applejack. “Applejack, it’s already night!” she shouted “Applejack where are you?” And like always, nothing was heard. Only the wind and some leaves cracking. “Oh no, maybe something bad happened to her” she thought. “She might be trapped now, or maybe stuck under a tree trunk, or maybe…” Her thoughts were suddenly abridged as a brown straw hat fell from above and to her face. She took the hat from her face. “Wait, this is Applejack’s. Then it must mean…” Rainbow Dash quickly ran as fast as she could to find the source of the hat. She looked far and wide, high and low; she even attempted to find Applejack at the Tree of Harmony. Rainbow Dash decided to fly above the forest (by the way, her wings are feeling a bit fine) and searched for her below the clouds. After a few minutes of flying, she found her still asleep. “Applejack!” she cried, thinking she was dead. Rainbow shifted down abruptly and took the sleeping mare in her hooves. “Applejack! Are you alright?” “Hh-huh? Rainbow Dash, is that you?” “Oh Applejack, I’m so sorry…” “It’s alright. Ah was just sleeping.” “Why were you sleeping like that? You really scared, you know.” “I’m just tired. 'Ya know, looking all over Equestria for you. I’m sorry on how I acted earlier.” “It’s not your fault; I was the one being the rude one and I should be the one saying sorry. Besides, I was the one who got you into this mess the first place.” “Say, I don’t mean to interrupt but it’s getting cold out here. Maybe we should stop by at my house, ‘ya think?” “Well, yeah, maybe we should. Hey, Applejack, I’ve been thinking for a while and…” “Well?” “Well…it’s just that you’re…I mean we should, well…uhh…” “Come on; Just tell me and don’t be shy. I’m list’ning.” “Applejack, is it too early to say…uhmm…will you…marry me?” “Oh, uhm…Rainbow Dash, I can’t…well…it’s not that I don’t…uhh…I don’t know.” “It’s alright for me if you don’t want.” “It’s just that…isn’t it too awkward for two mares to marry?” “Well…do you love me?” “Of course ah do!” “I love you too. Is that awkward?” “Well…no.” “Then would you?” “What'd ya’ think will I answer?” “Uhmm…yes?” “Then it's yes indeed.” Rainbow Dash was brightened by the words of Applejack. She suddenly leaped on the farmer, hugged her and kissed her. “I love you Applejack, and I’ll always will.” “I love ya too Rainbow Dash.” “Oh look, it’s snowing already.” “We’d better go back now. Why not stay at our house?” Meanwhile, behind Rainbow Dash and Applejack… “Did it work?” “Yes it did. Wow Discord, I didn’t know you were in to these things, I mean, you know where is Rainbow Dash and Applejack, you know how to bring them back, and you can make wind out of your breath.” “Oh, you know, just wanna see them happy and just straightening things up.” “So, this is the marriage you’re talking about?” “I know and…hey, it’s snowing already.” “Oh my, we better go inside before it gets any worse.” “Maybe we should. And when we get back, let’s prepare the wedding ceremony.” “Oh you…”
Chapter 2: In Sync“What’s that sugar cube?” Applejack asked. “I said I have a ‘strange feeling’ towards you” Rainbow Dash exclaimed. “Really?” said AJ. “What kind of feeling?” “Well…” said Rainbow Dash in a flirty tone, “The ‘feeling’.” Applejack didn't understand what Rainbow Dash said, but she just pretended she did just so that Rainbow could end this conversation. “Say, Applejack, what’ wrong? You haven’t been smiling lately.” “It’s just…” sighed Applejack. “It’s just that I’ve been living without parents for a long time now, and I managed to survive without parents, but…” “But what?” “But how ‘bout Applebloom?” AJ said with tears rolling down her cheeks. “She never had a chance to see what mom and dad’s faces were like. She keeps nagging me every day when she sees other fillies with parents, asking me if we have parents. I just can’t explain what happened. She’s still a filly, and she may not understand yet.” Rainbow Dash can’t help but cry a bit also, especially with a tragedy like that. Applejack felt like she’s the only one in her six friends who doesn't have parents (I don’t know about Fluttershy, but whatever). It hurts to see her parents die at her young age. “Hey, don’t cry” whispered Rainbow “I’m here for you, no matter what. And besides, we’re not just your friends, we’re your family.” “Thanks” said AJ as Rainbow wiped the tears from her eyes. “Mind if I hug?” Rainbow just responded by hugging Applejack. Suddenly, the ‘embers’ inside Rainbow started to spark more. In fact, it’s now as if Rainbow’s heartbeat was in sync with AJ’s. The hug felt like it lasted for hours, though it was only 3 minutes. “Thanks again for the comfort Rainbow” she smiled “I’d better go home now. Granny Smith must be beginning to worry.” Rainbow Dash saw Applejack ran off. “Bye Applejack” shouted Rainbow. “I love you!” But it was too late. Applejack’s now too far for her to hear what Rainbow said. “Duh, why did I say that!?” said Rainbow as she slapped herself. “Well, at least I got a hug from her. That’s enough for me.” Rainbow Dash flew off to the nearest cloud, happy with the hug she received from Applejack, although deep inside her, she wanted more than a hug from Applejack.
