Dirt and diamonds

Chapters

Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Epilogue

Chapter 1

Ringing filled Applejack’s ears. Constant pain coursed through her body due in no small part to the pony beneath her, obviously in a hurry to get somewhere very quickly

“Please, everypony, make way!”

She recognized the frantic voice, but couldn’t place a name or face with it. All she really wanted was to close her eyes and drift off to sleep, but the jarring and bumping sent pulses of pain through her tired body. Despite her best efforts, she found herself unable to move her head in any meaningful way, remaining transfixed at the ground blurring by. A brilliant flash of bright light lit up the world, causing her mind to make a tenuous link between the lightning and the water mercilessly pelting her coat. With great effort, she tried moving her hooves in an attempt to jump off the pony carrying her to Celestia only knows where.

“No, no, please don’t move, darling!”

Hurt? Was she hurt? There was that pounding headache throbbing in her skull. She'd had headaches before, but never on such a grand scale. Now that she thought about it, there did seem to be a very worried pony following behind her. Such a bright pink pony with a long straight mane and a face filled with fear who sure seemed upset about something.

“Rarity, Over here!”

Another familiar voice called out through the pouring rain. She didn’t get a very good look, as moving remained extremely difficult for some reason, but the purple unicorn did strike her as being very familiar.

“Ease her down carefully, we won’t know how badly she's hurt until the doctors get here!”

Her stomach lurched as she felt her body being lowered to the ground. A burning sensation in her chest forcing her to flinch. With her back to the ground and face now pointing upwards, she realized she had been placed under the relative protection of an umbrella, and the five worried faces staring down at her belonged to her closest friends. Fear gripped her heart as she realized how dire the situation had become.

“Stand aside, everypony!”

This voice also seemed familiar to her, but in a much less obvious way. Someone she had seen before, but very rarely. She identified the new voice by a red cross on her flank as Nurse Redheart, a nurse she unfortunately seemed to be in dire need of. Another pony moved into view from her right, a unicorn who wore a stethoscope which he promptly placed on her chest. The fear intensified as the unicorn's eyes grew wider and wider every second he listened to her heart.

“She’s in ventricular fibrillation, we need the defibrillator!”

The snow white mare shook her head, "We can’t use the defib unit outside in this weather, and it'll take too long to get her inside and dry her off!" The nurse turned to her side toward another pony, "Go get the Lidocaine, now!”

Applejack could swear her heart was trying to claw its way out of her chest. The pounding in her head reached a crescendo as the doctors scrambled furiously for supplies. Despite the growing blackness in her eyes, the farmer could see her friends off to the side, clearly shaken by the ordeal and fearful of what might happen. A new sensation enveloped her and the burning stopped abruptly. Her chest ceased it's steady movement and the blackness started closing in even faster, threatening to shut her out of the world.

The unicorn moved the stethoscope around her chest frantically, his voice now seemed distant as if he were standing far away from her, “No, no, no! Cancel the Lidocaine, she’s flatlined! Get the epinephrine in there, now!”

Nurse Redheart drew a syringe of clear liquid, “We don’t have an I.V. in. I’m going straight to the heart!”

Searing, white hot pain enveloped Applejack’s world, forcing her eyes open, and pushing the darkness back. She stared in a mixture of wonder and horror at the syringe being emptied into her chest. As the last bit of liquid disappeared, the nurse removed the accursed needle from her chest relieving the pressure and bringing her some much needed relief.

“Beginning compressions!” With surprising force, the snow white pony pushed on her chest sending pulse after pulse of pain through her body. After a few agonizing moments of this, she felt the painful thumping and burning sensation return as she reflexively gasped for air. The unicorn moved back in with his stethoscope, scanning frantically for her pulse.

“She’s in v-fib again! We’re back at square one. Without a defibrillator we’re spinning our wheels! If the Lidocaine doesn’t work, we’ll lose her!”

“Please, stand aside, everypony.”

Another voice—this one filled with authority and kindness—rang out across the crowd. Both doctors bowed apologetically to the majestic pony before them.

“Your highness, we can't use the defibrillator. Without the medicine, she’ll surely die.”

“I know, I have this in hoof. Please, close the umbrella.”

Applejack stared as they folded up the umbrella, allowing the rain to pelt her once again. She watched in awe as the royal pony raised her hoof to the sky, as if she were calling out to the heavens. “Stay with me, Applejack. Your friends and family need you. You will make it through this.”

Nurse Redheart stepped forward again, “Your highness, she probably can’t hear you. It’s very rare that a pony in cardiac arrest is conscious.”

Celestia's eyes connected with Applejack's, as if she could see right through the cowpony. “She can hear me, I know it. Look away, everypony.” With a brilliant flash, lightning struck her outstretched hoof, forming a powerful thread of electricity reaching from her to the sky, twisting in every direction like a string being blown in the wind. Despite the immense amount of electricity flowing through her, Celestia maintained a calm demeanor. “Hang in there, Applejack.”

Applejack could do little but stare as the princess’ other hoof moved closer to her chest, until her world faded into white light.

A tingling prickly feeling erupted in Applejack’s hooves. She slowly opened her crust-covered eyes to take in her surroundings. The sterile, white environment, the smell of harsh medicine in the air, the paper thin gown barely considered a garment covering her sore body... she knew exactly where she was given the clues around her.

“Ah feel like Ah’ve been bucked in the head some kinda good.” The farmer groaned as she attempted to sit up.

A white hoof crossed her chest gently, pushing her back down, “Easy, dear. No need to be in a hurry. My, my, you had us all quite worried there. Next time you decide to do something foolish like that, why don’t you warn us so we can have a eulogy ready ahead of time, hmm?”

Even in her injured state, Applejack managed an indignant snort “Now listen here, Rarity, it’s not like Ah went out of my way to uhh… hmmmm… what did Ah do anyway?”

Rarity shook her head slowly. “The doctors did mention that you might not remember some details. Give me just a moment, dear while I go get the others.”

The blonde pony stared as Rarity left the room. Now left to her own devices, she decided to give herself a once over. Her front left hoof bore a small black mark. Giving the mark a tentative touch rewarded her with a sharp pain. “Ow! Sweet candy apples that smarts…” Glancing down at her legs, she saw a similar mark on her rear right hoof as well. She thought better of giving this one more of the same treatment and decided to leave it be. The door slowly opened, and familiar faces pushed their way inside, wearing soft smiles.

“Hey, AJ, I told the others you’d be fine, nothing in Equestria can keep you down long,” Rainbow Dash said. Despite Rainbow's nonchalant attitude, Applejack could tell right away the multicolored mare had been worried.

Rarity locked eyes with the pegasus. “Hah! You should have seen Miss best young flier in Equestria here the night we brought you in. Rainbow was quite a mess until they told us you would pull through.” The cyan pegasus blew a raspberry towards Rarity in retaliation.

A party blower unfurled itself mere centimeters from the blonde pony’s face, yet made no sound whatsoever. “Uhhh, Pinkie, Ah think yer party thingies broken,” Applejack said smiling at her pink friend’s enthusiasm.

“Nope! I took out the squeaker! I’m under strict doctor’s orders not to surprise, startle, or spook you in any way shape, form or fashion, though I don’t know what clothes have to do with anything,” The pink mare pondered aloud in confusion.

“Speaking of doctor’s orders, just what in Ponyville happened anyway?” The orange pony asked, raising her burnt hoof for all to see.

“I can answer that,” the nurse said, stepping forward. “You took a massive hit from a lightning bolt while installing a lightning rod in a storm. Not the smartest thing you could have done.”

“That’s my fault,” Twilight spoke up, an apologetic look plain on her face, “I asked her to help me with one of my experiments. I wanted to study lightning and get a measurement from a lightning strike. I should’ve asked you to put it up earlier this week, but I just didn’t have time in my schedule, and when I realized the storm was happening that day I panicked and then… I should’ve moved something off my schedule beforehand, or put it off for another day. I’m sorry, Applejack.”

Applejack smiled and shook her head. “It’s all right, Twi. It was mah choice to go do something that foolish. Looking back, it certainly weren’t the smartest thing Ah’ve ever done, but it was something ah chose to do.”

“That’s very forgiving of you, Applejack.”

Everyone but Twilight stared in quiet awe as Princess Celestia walked into the room, bearing a soft smile.

Applejack blushed deeply beneath her orange coat. “Aw shucks, princess, ain't nothin'. I reckon I owe ya fer that little trick you did. I never imagined you could do something with lightning like that.”

“You and your friends have helped to save Equestria twice over. I’m happy to repay the favor anyway I can,” The princess said with a wink.

“Well Ah thank ya all the same. Since ya’ll done patched me up, Ah think Ah’ll get back to the farm so Ah can make sure the animals get their supper. They’re gonna be mighty angry at missing breakfast,” Applejack said, moving to leave the bed. Her escape plan reached an abrupt halt as the nurse pushed her back down.

“Oh no you don’t. You have a contact injury from that lightning blast. It had to cross your heart to reach the ground. You’re in no shape to be hauling feed. You need to rest up and let your heart and body recover.”

“Rest up? But Big Mac, Granny Smith, and Applebloom are still in Canterlot for two weeks. Ah have to take care of the farm!” The earth pony protested. Everyone in the room—minus the princess—went silent and averted their eyes. “Wait, what’s going on? Why’d everypony get quiet all of a sudden?”

Fluttershy cleared her voice as best she could while hiding behind her mane. “Ummmm, Applejack, please don’t be mad, but I’ve been taking care of your animals. You’ve actually been out for ummm…” The pegasi’s voice trailed off.

“Wait, how long have Ah been out?”

“Ummm, well, a week…”

“Say what?” Applejack shouted. Fluttershy retreated behind Pinkie Pie. “A whole week? Are you kiddin'? Please tell me she’s jokin!” The entire room remained silent. Applejack looked back to the unicorn standing beside her bed. “You’ve been sitting with me for an entire week, Rarity?”

“Not exactly. Twilight, Pinkie, and I have been swapping shifts. Rainbow was helping too at first, but she stopped showing up after awhile.” Rarity said, cutting her eyes at the Pegasus in question.

“Heh, heh, heh… well, it was so boring. I started helping Fluttershy and Sweetie Belle with the animals instead. It’s not like I abandoned you or anything, I just decided to help in a different way,” Rainbow said, scratching her head.

“That’s okay, Rainbow, I know how hard it is ta get you to sit still. Ah can’t thank you gals enough. It means a lot to me that ya’ll went so far out to help me, but it’s time Ah took mah farm back, and let ya’ll take a break," Applejack said, trying to get to her hooves again.

“Nope! You are to avoid any strenuous activity for at least two weeks!” The nurse said, pushing her back down.

“Two weeks? But I have to get everything ready for when mah family comes home… ’sides, there’s no way I can sit at my farm and do nothin!”

“My point exactly,” The nurse said with a nod. “Which is why you won’t be at your farm. You’ll be staying with your friend Rarity since she works from home, and lives closest to the hospital. She was kind enough to volunteer to take you in. I want to be sure we can get you back in here quickly, if you start having chest pains again

“Wait a minute, two weeks... with Rarity? I’m not sure I can swing that…” Applejack said apprehensively.

“Well you don’t have to be insulting,” Rarity said, sticking her nose in the air.

“Aw, you know that’s not what Ah meant.”

“Hmph!”

“Ah just prefer to handle these things on my own, I don’t wanna be a pain in nopony’s flank,” The orange pony remarked rubbing her hooves together nervously.

“I know you’re not forgetting one of my student’s friendship lessons about not doing everything by yourself are you?” The princess asked in a chiding tone.

“Oh… well… dangit. Yer right, Princess.” She turned back to her friends. “Gals, thank ya’ll so much, ah really mean it. Especially you, Rarity for offerin me a place to stay.”

A smile returned to the unicorn’s lips. “You are most welcome. Perhaps you might enjoy this better if you looked at it as more of a vacation?”

“Maybe yer right. I’ll just try to enjoy a lil R and R, but don’t you think fer a minute I’ll be sitting on mah flank all day. Ah’m gonna be helpin with tha dishes and tha cookin at the very least, and there’s nothing you can say to stop me.” Applejack said, firmly.

Rarity smiled back at her, “Fine, if you insist. I certainly won’t refuse the help, but you simply must relax and take it easy, or this will all be for nothing.”

“Ah promise.” The blonde pony glared at the nurse. “Are ya satisfied? now can ah get up?

“Very well then," The nurse relented. "Remember, Rarity, make sure somepony is close by in case she has any chest pains, and make sure she keeps her blood pressure and stress levels in check.”

“I will, Nurse Redheart, Thank you very much.” Rarity said. “Now let’s get a wheelchair and get you back to the boutique, dear. “

Applejack took a deep breath, uncertainty rose within her. Dealing with Rarity had become much easier since the sleepover, but they never stayed near each other for more than a few hours since. An entire week seemed daunting to the earth pony, but she was deep in the thick of it now with no turning back. As her friends pulled the wheelchair close to the bed, she hoped her vacation would turn out better than what currently was rattling around in her head.

Chapter 2

“Sweetie Beeelllleeee! We’re baaaack!”

Scampering hooves echoed through the quiet boutique as a small unicorn filly dashed to the showroom to greet both of the ponies.

“Rarity! Applejack!” Sweetie ran over and threw her hooves around the blonde pony’s legs. “I’m so glad you’re OK! Everypony was so worried when we heard about the lightning strike, Rarity couldn’t even concentrate on her dresses while yo-“ Sweetie’s tirade was cut short by a white hoof jammed into her mouth.

“Heh, heh, heh! That’s enough of that, Sweetie” Rarity said, a slight blush playing on her face, “Applejack shall be staying in the guest room while she recovers. Can you be a dear and make sure the guest room is prepared? The bed clothes are on the top shelf in the hall closet.”

“You can count on me!” Sweetie said, releasing her captive.

Applejack smiled broadly at the energetic filly bouncing away, “No lack of energy in that one, that’s fer sure." Her wandering mind snapped back to reality as she realized Rarity was standing right next to her sniffing in disapproval.

“Uhhhh, Applejack, is there anyway I could talk you into a bath? You smell like medicine and the Ponyville retirement home.” The unicorn said with a hesitant smile.

The blonde pony cut her eyes sharply at the unicorn, “Well thank ya kindly fer tha compliment there Miss generosity.” She said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. Out of curiosity she gave herself a tentative sniff and recoiled. “Ooof! On second thought, a bath does sound mighty tempting, and I am a mite sore from being laid up an all, lead the way!”

Applejack followed Rarity down the hall to the guest bedroom, “This is where you’ll be staying.” Rarity said pushing the door open with a flourish, “I usually keep it in immaculate condition, but in recent days it has acted more as a storage room than anything else.”

Peering inside the bedroom, the cowpony saw boxes of all shapes and sizes stacked almost to the ceiling, looking past the clutter revealed a room suited more for royalty than regular ponies. “Well, uhh… it sure looks mighty… comfortable!” The scattered bedsheets squirmed and shuddered violently drawing their attention to the bed just as a young unicorn popped out of the tangled sheets.

“Rarityyyyyyyy! These aren’t the right clothes!”

“Nonsense, these clothes should fit perfectly....Oops! I said the top shelf didn’t I? I meant the middle shelf. I'm sorry Sweetie, let me go get our guest settled into the bath and I'll help you finish up so we can get dinner started.” Rarity said ducking back out of the room.

“Enjoy your bath Applejack!” Sweetie shouted back.

Both ponies continued down the hall to the last door at the very end. A blue aura engulfed the door swinging it open slowly, “And here is the bathroom you’ll be using. It’s not much, but I’m sure it will accommodate your needs.”

The sheer luxuriousness of the bathroom alone caused Applejack's jaw to drop. Despite Rarity’s description, the bathroom was unlike any she had ever been in save for the suites at Canterlot castle during their stay at hearthswarming eve. The bathtub spacious size meant it could double as a hot tub, and the sink was easily large enough to bathe a filly in.

“Uhhhm yeah, ah believe this’ll do fer now.......”

“Well that, as they say, is that! I'm going to help Sweetie clean up, feel free to use any of the products lying around. You’d be amazed at how much a hot lavender bubble bath calms a pony down.” She said gesturing to the long line of bottles neatly placed along the side of the tub.

“Naw, none of that fer me. I just wanna nice hot bath, that’s all.”

“Very well my dear, enjoy your bath!” With that the unicorn closed the door leaving the blonde pony alone in the massive bathroom..

Applejack turned the ornate knobs of the luxurious tub gently, mostly in fear that she might break the decorative handles. Putting her hoof under the faucet, she adjusted the knobs until the temperature hit her personal sweet spot. With a quick flick of her neck she flung her hat into the air, caught it with her teeth, and threw it in the sink. She removed the bands from her long blonde hair in a similar fashion and flung them next to her hat as well. Completely dressed down and now more anxious than ever, she stepped into the tub melting into the warm water.

“Oh sweet merciful Celestia this feels amazing….” her eyes slowly shut in reverie as she let the warmth travel through every tired and sore bone in her body. She leaned back in the tub and allowed her mind to roam free. She hoped that she could get a chance to visit the farm tomorrow, but given the doctor’s orders and Rarity’s insistent nature, she wrote it off as a long shot. During her short reverie a new smell hit her nose, one that she deemed pleasant enough to investigate. Glancing around the edge of the tub she spied the source of the enjoyable aroma and pulled the bottle close to her to read the label.

“Diva Dee-vine’s lavender scented bubble bath. Escape tha stress of your day with this lavender getaway.”

Her eyes shifted back and forth as if spying eyes were everywhere, ready to pounce on her during a moment of weakness. She stared at the opening of the bottle as she gently tipped it sideways. Anticipation built as the purple liquid oozed out slowly until a small dollop broke off and gently splashed into the tub. Bubbles immediately started frothing up out of the water rapidly filling the empty white space with the foaming concoction. Satisfied with the amount of water in the bath, she turned the knobs until the flow slowed to a halt. The scent of lavender and the feeling of thousands of tingly bubbles playing on her coat left her in a new level of pony heaven.

“This is tha best Idea I’ve ever had. No wonder them fancy ponies like rolling around in this stuff.”

Time marched on as she closed her eyes and soaked in the luxurious bath. She was so far gone that she almost didn’t hear the sound of approaching hoofsteps from outside the bathroom.

“Applejack? I forgot today was laundry day, I took all of the towels out earlier to clean them, but don’t worry. I've brought them with me, I’ll just step inside a moment and put the others away.”

Panic set in as the blonde pony peered down at the copious amount of bubbles filling the tub. “Ummm, that’s all right Rarity, I uhhhh ah’ll just use the uhhh, paper towels or something, no need to trouble yourself!”

“Paper towels? Don't be ridiculous, it’s no problem at all, I’ll only be a moment!”

Applejack’s eye’s widened. Out of time and unsure what to do to save her reputation, a bold plan formed in her mind.

The bathroom door swung open wide as Rarity pushed her way inside. Using her magic, she placed a neatly folded orange towel next to the cowpony's hat. “Fresh off the line, and I even picked one that matches your coat.” the unicorn said with a smile before turning to the towel cabinet to offload the rest of her load.

“Well, thank ya– urrrp!” Applejack's jaw dropped, she panicked and started flailing her hooves in the air. Luckily Rarity still had her back turned, busy with the towels.

“Sweetie and I are debating on pancakes or french toast, which do you prefer?” The white mare asked, still focusing her attention on the cabinet.

“Shoot I’m not picky, either of those would be per- urrrp!” The blonde pony was interrupted by another mighty belch.

With the last towel put away, Rarity turned back towards the tub, “I think I’ve made significant strides in dealing with your sometimes uncouth behavior, but the least you could do is excu- wha ha whaaaaat?”

Both ponies stared at a stream of bubbles floating lazily through the air.

“Applejack, where did these bubbles come from?”

The blonde pony shrugged.

“Well they didn’t just materialize out of thin air... you don't know where they came from?” Applejack's responded by tilting her head. Rarity shrugged moving to the door. “Oh well, don’t stay in there too long, you’ll get all pruny.”

“I know, I wo-urrp!” A fresh stream of bubbles flew out of Applejack's mouth hitting the unicorn in the face.

“What in the name of Luna!” The scent of lavender filled the air. She craned her neck over the side of the tub and saw not a single bubble, but the water definitely had a purple tint to it. One look at the earth pony’s blushing face told the entire story, “You ate the bubbles so I wouldn’t find out you were taking a bubble bath?!” A small smile started on the white mare's face. Unable to contain herself, she fell to the ground kicking her legs in a laughing fit. Applejack looked less than pleased.

“Ain’t none of this funny! I just wanted to see what the fuss is all about, that’s al-urrrp!” Another mighty belch, and another stream of bubbles flew out of Applejack’s mouth sending more bubbles to drift about the room.

Rarity managed to wipe a few stray tears of laughter out of her eyes, “Darling you simply cannot tell me that’s not funny! If this were anypony else but you, i know you would be laughing as well!”

The crimson blush deepened on the earth pony’s face. “OK, maybe it’s a little funny. But ya can’t go telling anypony about this! Can you imagine what kinda laughing stock I’d be if this got out?”

“If what got out? The fact that you took a bubble bath, or that you turned yourself into a bubble blower?”

Applejack cut her eyes at the unicorn.

Rarity picked herself up from the floor and stifled her laughter, “Fine, Fine, don’t worry. I won’t tell a soul, I Pinkie-promise. You’re lucky that bubble bath is non-toxic or Celestia only knows what might've happened. If you’re still hungry for some actual food, pancakes should be ready by the time you get out.” The white mare informed her, heading to the door.

“Hey Rarity?”

“Hmmm?”

“Thanks,” Applejack said with a smile. The unicorn smiled back closing the door behind her.

The smell of sugar permeated the air of the boutique as three hungry ponies attacked their plates of pancakes, each in their own ways. Syrup drizzled down Applejack and Sweetie Belle's chins as they cut through their stacks with reckless abandon.

“You Two are just plain animals, you’re getting syrup everywhere.” Rarity commiserated, her pancakes barely coated in syrup.

“Ah, cut me some slack, I haven’t eaten anything in a week, at least not while ah was awake, and they kicked me out afore I could get a decent meal.” Applejack said rolling her eyes.

“As if anypony has ever gotten a decent meal at the hospital.” Rarity replied, “Any plans for tomorrow?”

The earth pony put her hoof to her chin, “Ah dunno really. Ah know I'm supposed ta be taking it easy, but ah can’t just sit around all day. I'd sure like to stretch mah legs a bit. Ya have anything ya need from the market tomorrow?”

Rarity bit her lip, “I DO have a few thing I need to pick up… No, I can’t do that. You need to have someone watching you at all times just in case… Unless… Sweetie? How would you feel about accompanying Applejack on a shopping trip tomorrow?”

“Oh oh oh! I’d love to!” Sweetie shouted excitedly for a moment before looking back at the earth pony apprehensively, “That… is if you’re OK with it?”

Applejack reached over and mussed Sweetie’s hair. “Aw shucks, I’d be plum tickled ta have ya along. I know ya’ll probably a bit bored seein as how Applebloom ain’t around right now. “

“Thanks Applejack!” Sweetie said with a smile.

The blonde pony looked back at Rarity who just sat there with a smile on her face, her plate of pancakes barely touched. “You sure seem preoccupied, what’s on yer mind Rare?”

The unicorn’s fork clattered onto the plate, “Oh! Uhhh, nothing really. On second thought, I'm not all that hungry. I had quite a satisfying brunch earlier before I went to the hospital.” The unicorn stepped away from the table abandoning her plate. “Just let me know when you two are done and I’ll handle the dishes.”

Applejack shook her head, “No way! Ah ain’t stayin without pulling mah weight! You go on ta bed. Ah'll clean up tha dishes.”

“But really dear, in your shape-“

“No butts! Ah insist!” The earth pony said firmly.

“Very well then, have a pleasant evening you two.” Rarity said, taking her leave.

“Hmmm, ah wonder what that was all about?” Applejack pondered aloud.

Sweetie Belle picked at her pancakes nervously, “She’s been acting funny ever since you were hurt. I'm sure she’ll be fine now that you’re out”

“Yer probably right, c’mon now Sweetie, those pancakes ain’t gonna eat themselves.”

Applejack smiled as the filly started back in on her pancakes, syrup dipping off her muzzle.

With the dishes done and the kitchen spotless, Applejack stood in front of her temporary bed. Even the unicorn’s guest bed put her bed to shame. She eased her still somewhat sore body into the monstrosity and slid under the covers, ready to get some real rest. Her mind wandered through her most recent memories, her struggle for life, the princess’ dramatic intervention, waking up to her friend’s bright smiles. Her apprehension and fear of staying at Rarity’s house seemed silly now that she had spent the day with her and Sweetie. She might be able to enjoy herself after all. She stared at the ceiling as her mind started drifting off and slowing down easing her into a night of sleep.

“urrrp!”

She stared angrily at the line of bubbles floating lazily through the air, “Consarn it…. Me and mah bright ideas…..”

Chapter 3

“Hoo whee! It sure is good ta be in tha fresh air again!” Despite the burn marks on her hooves, Applejack strolled happily down Main Street with Sweetie Belle at her side. Ponies along the way gave friendly waves, warm smiles, and well wishes to the orange mare. “What else ya got on yer list there, sugarcube?”

“Hmmmm. It say's here we need three bolts of red number two fabric, five boxes of assorted sequins, and our usual order from Sugarcube Corner.”

“Whattya think we should get first, Sweetie?”

A low rumble sounded from Applejack's stomach.

Sweetie laughed at the sudden outburst from coming from the cow pony's stomach, "I guess we're going to Sugarcube Corner first!"

Sweet smells and smiles filled the air in the bakery. After having a quick scan of the shop, Applejack noticed her favorite pink pony working the front counter, taking orders and handing out sweets to the customers. She sidled up to the counter as stealthily as possible careful not to draw attention to herself.

“Here you go Mrs. Mayor, one dozen apple turnovers! Don’t eat’em all at once!”

“Thank’s Pinkie. It’s always a treat to see your bright smile.” The mayor replied, taking her bag of baked goods.

The pink pony snorted, “No silly, the treats are in the bag. You can’t eat my face. Have a great day!” Without hesitation she craned her neck towards the kitchen, “Need more turnovers and banana nut muffins up front!”

Applejack and Sweetie Belle stared as the bewildered mayor retreated from the counter, making off with her goods. Applejack chose this moment to step forward while the party pony was preoccupied with shouting into the kitchen.

“Ahem! What’s a mare gotta do ta get some muffins round here?”

A blur of pink blazed across the counter knocking the orange pony off her feet and pinning her to the ground.

"Applejack! It’s so good to see you! You look so much better now than you did in the hospital! Oops! Not to say you didn’t look good before, but you were in the hospital and it’s hard to look good in one of those paper gown thingies espec-”

Pinkie’s tirade was cut short by an orange hoof, “Easy there girl, let’s take it one step at a time.” She carefully pushed the energetic pony away to get up only to be wrapped up in a vice-grip hug.

“Don’t ever scare us like that again.”

The sudden sincerity and concern in Pinkie's voice made Applejack feel uneasy. She gently pushed her pink friend away to get a good look at her face. beneath her normally bubbly smile she saw a hint of unease and sadness beneath the surface. Wordlessly, she pulled the pink pony back for another hug, “Don’t ya’ll worry none, it’s gonna take more than that to get rid of me.” This time Pinkie broke the hug, her eyes and smile back to their former glory. In a flash she jumped back across the counter to the register.

“Alrighty then, what’s it gonna be? Muffins? Turnovers? Brownies, cupcakes, pies?”

Sweetie Belle stepped forward, “Me and Applejack are doing our shopping rounds for Rarity since she’s stuck with some big orders today.”

Pinkie reached under the counter pulling up a bag filled with various baking ingredients for just about anything a pony might want to make and tossed it over the counter. Sweetie poked her head inside to make sure everything was there only to tumble inside it. Applejack smiled and rolled her eyes as the unicorn fought to escape the bag. watching the little filly struggle with the bag sparked an idea in the orange mare's head.

“Say Pinkie, How’s about throwing in tha stuff for that chocolate cupcake recipe you and ah cooked up awhile back, I’ll pay tha difference.”

“You mean the double decadent deluxe chocoholic chunk cupcakes? Sure thing!” The pink pony disappeared into the kitchen before returning almost instantly carrying a small bag filled with more baking stuffs. “You know you’re going to have the buck trees overtime to lose weight if you eat like this without exercising.” She said with a wink.

“Not all of us can eat anything without gaining a pound like you. Don’t matter none, a few days back on the farm and I’ll be back in shape in no time.” Applejack reached into the first bag and yanked the struggling unicorn out. “I’d love ta stick around and chat, but we gotta pick up a few more things ‘fore we get back, see ya later Pinkie!”

“Wait you guys!” The pink mare hopped the counter and pushed a cookie into each of their hooves, “One chocolate double fudge cookie for each of you! Have a great day!” she said waving them off with a smile.

Both ponies took their cookies with gracious smiles and left the sweet shop to continue their shopping.

The cowpony moved in a Pinkie-like blur about the kitchen, she swiftly placed three plates on the table and scooped several heaping spoonfuls of steamed carrots onto each plate. With all three plates full she dashed back to the counter picking up a pan stacked high with rolls and placed it in the middle of the table.

“Wow, I thought you had an apple for a cutie mark, how did you get so good at cooking?” Sweetie Belle asked, confusion plain on her face.

“Sugarcube, just cause ya got a cutie mark in something don’t mean that's tha only thing yer good at. Just look at Pinkie Pie. She might be good at throwing parties, but she can certainly give anypony a run for their money in the kitchen. Twilight’s cutie mark might be for magic, but she’s mighty good at her scholarly duties too. Maybe you should try cooking with me one day?”

The little unicorn beamed back up at the orange mare and threw her hooves around her legs, “I’d love to!”

“Oh my, something smells delicious in here.” Rarity observed entering the aroma filled kitchen. She was immediately beset by her sister.

“Rarity! Applejack's going to teach me how to cook!”

“Oh…. She is? Ummm is that a good idea?” The unicorn asked hesitantly.

The farmer pony waved her off, “Don’t you worry none. I’ll keep a good eye on her. Yer right on time, dinners waitin.”

All three ponies took their seat at the table digging into their plates.

“Hm, it’s been quite awhile since I’ve had steamed carrots.” Using her magic and a fork, Rarity skewered several pieces bringing them to her mouth. “I’ve had such a stressful day trying to fill this order for a Canterlot noble. You have no idea how hard it can be to please them, such finicky ponies.”

“I reckon ah have some idea. You should try catering for them, buncha picky eaters. I don’t know what they eat at home considering how little they eat in public.” Applejack said, rolling her eyes.

“I suppose that’s true” Rarity agreed between dainty bites of carrot pieces. “By the way, do you HAVE to wear that hat to the table?”

“Aw c’mon, it’s not like it’s hurting anything,” The orange mare said tapping it with her hoof. A fine layer of dust fell from the hat covering her section of the table. Rarity smiled back at her in vindication, “Fine…” The cowpony removed her hat and placed it under her chair out of sight.

“So Sweetie, what did you and Applejack get into today?” Rarity asked, as she used her magic to pull a roll to her plate..

“Not a lot, we visited Pinkie at Sugarcube corner and she gave us a cookie. Oh, and that order for fabric hasn’t come through yet, Clothwork said she should have it in two days.”

The seamstress’ face fell a little, “Oh dear. That may push the order for Neighona’s backup dancer’s dresses back. She absolutely must have them for her tour by next Friday! Hmmmm, it’s not like this is the first time I've had a strict deadline, I’ll just have to buckle down a bit more once I have the fabric. Applejack, I do hate to ask, especially in your condition, but is there anyway you can watch after Sweetie Belle a bit more once the material comes in?”

The cowpony sat back with a prideful smile, “Why I’d be glad ta watch after her. Gets kinda boring without mah kin around ya know? By the way, its good ta see ya got yer appetite back.”

Rarity glanced down at her nearly empty plate. “Hmmm, I suppose that order took a lot out of me.”

“Good, cause I certainly wouldn’t want these babies ta go ta waste.” The orange mare said, vacating her seat.

“Hmm?”

Applejack reached into the fridge and pulled out a large tray of cupcakes. Everyone's eyes opened wide as she placed the chocolate treats on the table. “There we are! Mine and Pinkie’s very own Double Decadent Deluxe Chocoholic Chunk Cupcakes!” She finished with a proud smile.

Rarity looked on the verge of drooling on the tablecloth, “Oh those look… Absolutely delicious… and tempting…I .... I can’t! A fashionable pony like me has to watch her figure. I must not let my will power falter in the face of temptation!” She said holding her hoof to her head.

“Awwww, but surely one or two can’t hurt, right?” Sweetie asked.

“No, I mustn’t! I must stand resolute! I’m sorry, but no cupcakes for me!” The unicorn stated firmly.

Applejack’s face fell a little bit, “Well, alright then. Tomorrow I’ll see about bringing them ta somepony else’s.”

Rarity continued eying the forbidden sweets, scrunching her face a bit, “I do appreciate the gesture but, I simply cannot cave.” The unicorn placed her fork on the table, “I suppose that’s it for me then, I shall be off to bed. See you two tomorrow!”

Sweetie Belle and Applejack both stared as the unicorn left the table. Finally the filly broke the silence, “Is it just me or was that a little weird?”

“Absolutely, ah wonder what made her leave like that?”

Sweetie snatched one of the cupcakes, “Oh well. More for us! You saw how little syrup she used on her pancakes. Rarity can be really strange when it comes to sugar.” She said between mouthfuls of cupcake. “These are amazing! Can I have more?” Sweetie asked with pleading eyes.

Applejack mussed the little unicorn’s mane, “You have all you want sugarcube. I’m glad somepony is eating them.” The cowpony stood up from the table carrying her dishes to the sink. “I’m gonna nab mahself a good bath and a good night’s sleep. Just leave the dishes to me. I'll handle them in tha morning.” She said walking towards the hall.

“Goodnight Applejack! Sleep well!” Sweetie said with a mouthful of cupcakes, sending crumbs flying everywhere.

Applejack slowly opened her eyes, her throat felt dryer than she could ever remember it being before. Chalking it up to the medicine she had been on, she stepped out of bed groggily and made her way out of her room and down the hall. She stumbled down the barely lit hallway into the kitchen pondering what to drink. The refrigerator door slowly opened as she struggled to blink back the bright light shining inside. Spying a carton of orange juice, she snatched it and closed the door, thankful to be back in the relative darkness of the quiet boutique. Pulling out a glass from the cabinet, she poured the juice slowly as her eyes wandered to the window, by the moon's position she guessed it was probably around midnight. Her eyes wandered to the library, a bit of light still poured from one of the top windows from the upstairs bedroom.

“Heh, that bookworm. One day all that staying up late is gonna catch up with her.” A soft splashing sound brought her gaze back down to her glass overflowing with juice. “Consarn it!” Grabbing a paper towel, she wiped the juice off the counter and threw it in the trash. With her mess now cleaned up She gulped down the glass of juice and placed it in the sink. Done with her drink, she grabbed the orange juice and opened the fridge door to place it inside when something caught her eyes.

“What the hay?” The tray of cupcakes she baked earlier only had two left. She chuckled to herself, “That little filly must be nursing one heckuva sore stomach right now.” She closed the door and started back towards the hallway when something caught her ears. It sounded faintly like music from the upstairs room. Nervously she started up the stairs quietly to keep from awaking anyone. As she got closer, she could hear the music better. Smooth jazz poured from the cracked door, the dulcet tones of Neighles Davis Jr. quietly echoed outside the room. Thinking it odd that Rarity might be up this time of night, Applejack carefully pushed open the door and was horrified by what she saw.

The unicorn, clad in her luxurious pajamas lay on her bed, with a dreamy look on her face and a plate filled with six cupcakes sitting in front of her. Her bulging cheeks puffing outwards with what had to be another cupcake if the chocolate crumbs on her lips were any indication. “Rarity?”

The unicorn’s eyes went wide, “Afujaf!” She spat sending crumbs flying all over her comforter.

The cowpony pushed the door open completely. “And just what in Luna’s name is going on here! I thought ya’ll were watching yer figure!” She said stamping her hoof.

With a mighty gulp, the unicorn swallowed her mouthful of chocolate cupcake,” I know, I know! I was weak! They looked so…. Delicious.” She said hanging her head in shame.

Applejack shook her head, “Lemme guess, ya’ll were gonna polish all these off and blame it on Sweetie Belle weren’t ya.”

Rarity bit her hoof, “Guilty…”

The cowpony hopped onto the bed earning a look of ire from the unicorn. The orange mare presented her hooves, “Clean, see?" The unicorn nodded in satisfaction, her smile returning. "Now, in mah time ah’ve learned, a pony don’t usually eat like this unless something’s botherin them. Wanna talk about it?”

Rarity shook her head, “No, at least not this moment. I wouldn’t mind the company though. It gets a bit lonely at night sometimes.”

Applejack rolled her eyes, “Sure it does, Miss royal wedding dressmaker. You could have tha pick of any stallion round these parts, yer just too buried in yer work to bother with it.”

Rarity laughed nervously, “Heh, heh, heh, yeah… any stallion I suppose. What about you? I never see you with anypony.”

The cowpony shook her head, “Ain’t found nopony worth dealin with. When the time comes, I’ll know.”

“That simple, is it?”

Applejack lay back on the bed next to her friend, “Simples how ah live mah life. It’s worked pretty well so far, but sometimes it gets a bit boring.”

Rarity nodded, “I can certainly see a comfort to their being predictability to one’s life. I myself find it a bit tedious at times. Some nights I stay up late and listen to music or read a book in the bath. Anything to break free of the monotony of the day. I simply don’t understand how Twilight endlessly reads and studies. Surely that has to wear on a pony.”

The orange mare nodded, “She’s burnin the midnight oil tonight too.”

The unicorn was silent for a time. “You should probably pay her a visit tomorrow. She feels absolutely dreadful about what happened. It might help if she knew you didn’t harbor any ill will towards her.”

“That crazy mare, she should know by now I don’t” The cowpony rolled her eyes.

"Well that's something for tomorrow, the night is still young." Rarity sat up in bed, firing a sultry smile towards Applejack “You wouldn’t happen to like smooth jazz would you?”

A smile crept over the orange pony’s face, “Are you kiddin? Sometimes that’s the perfect way to unwind after bucking trees all day!”

Rarity’s horn began to glow softly. A magical aura engulfed a box of records pulling it towards the bed. “Would you like to see what else I have while we tackle these cupcakes?”

“I’d love to.”

Chapter 4

The bright morning sun beamed down on Ponyville as Applejack walked through town. She successfully convinced Rarity that she wouldn’t need Sweetie Belle’s assistance today since she would be in town and if anything happened there would surely be a pony nearby to help. Her eyes wandered to the sky noticing a few clouds hanging lazily in the sky which left her wondering if it was supposed to rain later, or if Rainbow had just slept in this morning. She quickly scanned the sky until a prismatic tail hanging off a cloud caught her eye.

“Hah! Napping on tha job? Ah got something for ya.” She snapped her head upwards grabbing her hat in her teeth. Her eyes narrowed as she watched the wind gently flow through her hair. Making a guess at the speed and direction, she flashed a devious smile and flung her hat making sure to follow through. She held her breath as the projectile cut through the wind, spiraling through the air headed straight for her target. Her eyes lit up as it grew closer until…..

poof!

The cloud vanished leaving the Pegasus laying flat out in mid air.

“What the?! Whaaaaaaaaaa- Oof!”

Applejack stood over the Pegasus laying in a crumpled heap in front of her. The rainbow maned pony shook off the shock of the impact.

“What the hay was that for?!”

“Ya’ll aint the only pony that knows how to pull a prank or two ya know?” The cowpony said retrieving her hat from beneath the Pegasus. “Besides all that, it’s past time for ya’ll ta get up.”

Rainbow glared at her angrily, “Ha, ha, so hilarious! I suppose it is time for me to get up though. The weather team is probably wondering where I am.”

“Oh, I bet they know you well enough by now ta guess.”

Rainbow poked the orange mare in the chest. “you, are the worst alarm clock ever!” Just before she took off she sniffed the air following a smell which lead her straight to the cowpony. “Uhhh Applejack, you smell like strawberries….”

The orange mare’s eyes went wide, she gave her hair a tentative sniff only to be rewarded with a fruity smell. “It’s just one of Rarity’s fancy shampoos, that’s all. You better get before the weather team starts lookin for ya.”

“Yeah, yeah, see ya later.”

Applejack watched the Pegasus pony take off, doubtlessly to start her day in the weather business. Continuing her stroll she finally came upon her destination. In front of her stood the large tree which acted as the town's library. Before Twilight came into their lives, the town's library fell into disrepair and the books were rarely organized. Now that the tree had ponies living in and visiting on a more frequent basis it seemed brighter, happier even. In the mid morning sun she glanced off to the side of the tree and saw a large pole with a wire attached to it hastily ran right outside a window leading into the tree.

“Applejack! Speak to me!”

Applejack’s breath hitched. Her heart beat faster, almost to the point of hurting. The voice she heard in her head belonged to Twilight. Frantic and full of concern, it chilled her blood. Staring at the metallic pole she saw two black marks, one high on the pole, one down low. On the ground she spied a small burnt patch of grass, doubtlessly one of the points where her body completed the circuit for the lightning to pass through. She tore her eyes away from the structure and ran towards the library’s front door, relieved to be away from the scene of her accident. Shaking off the sudden panic attack she rapped her hoof on the large wooden door. Little footsteps thumped from the other side as the occupant hurried to answer. The large door squeaked open a little bit revealing a familiar baby dragon on the other side.

“Applejack!” Spike threw his clawed hands around her legs. “I’m so glad you’re OK! I wanted to visit you yesterday when I heard you left the hospital, but Twilight wouldn’t let me leave by myself in case we got any visitors.” The baby dragon grumbled. "Spike! what if somepony needs to check out a book? Somepony has to be here at all times!" Spike pantomimed in a mocking tone.

“Speaking of tha egghead, where is that crazy pony at?” She asked trying to stick her head inside.

“That’s just it. She’s in her room. She’s kinda upset and I’ve been instructed not to let anyone in by any means necessary.” He said twiddling his claws.

“Is that so….” Applejack said glaring down at him.

Spike looked back at her nervously. “Ummmmm Rawr?”

The cowpony pushed him aside effortlessly, not that he put up much of a fight to begin with. She walked straight through the spacious main area of the library until she reached the door leading to Twilight’s room. With a gentle touch she knocked softly on the oak door.

“Twi, c’mon out and talk ta me.”

She waited for any sort of response. After about twenty seconds of silence she knocked harder on the door.

“Twilight Sparkle, ya’ll know me well enough by now ta know ah’m too dang stubborn ta give up. Faster ya talk ta me, tha faster we can be done with this.” She waited for awhile, for any sound of movement or acknowledgement. She raised her hoof again to give the door a proper whacking.

“I’m sorry, Applejack.”

The cowpony gently placed her face and front hooves on the door. “C’mon Twi, open tha door and let’s get it over with.” The lock quietly clicked and the door opened just a crack. Applejack slowly peeked her head inside the room. Unlike usual, the lighting of the room was dark. Really dark. All the curtains were drawn and not a single candle lit. Her eyes adjusted to the dark of the room affording her a better view of a purple unicorn sitting across the room, her head turned downwards and next to her a stack of scrolls lay unfurled having been read recently.

Applejack placed her hoof on the mare’s shoulder slowly, waiting for any sign of resistance, but none came. “C’mon Twi, what’s going on here?” She felt the unicorn draw a deep breath.

“I’ve been going through all the friendship reports I’ve sent to Celestia ever since I came to Ponyville. It seemed like I made such good progress, I thought I was ready for this whole friendship stuff, that I’d be ready to put my friend’s needs ahead of my studies, but I couldn’t. I put your life in danger, and for what? Some stupid experiment? I thought I had changed, but I’m the same uncaring pony I always have been.”

Applejack spun the unicorn around to face her, she saw matting around her eyes where tears had fallen earlier and a glistening in each eye where they threatened to pool this very moment. She buried her friend in her shoulder in a warm embrace. “Twilight Sparkle, now ya know that just ain’t true. Don’t matter whose idea it was or whose fault it is, in tha end, I’m tha one that made such a dang fool decision in tha first place. Ah don’t believe for a minute you were ever an uncarin pony. If ya were an uncarin pony ya certainly wouldn’t be beating yourself up over it now would ya?”

“But what would’ve happened if Princess Celestia hadn’t been there? We might’ve lost you! I can’t even face the others, they’re all probably mad at me for nearly getting you killed! Ponyville would never be the same without you, heck, all of Equestria would be in danger without the Element of Honesty! I don’t know what I would have done if you never woke up…”

Applejack shushed her gently, “Now, now. None of that. I'm still here and ah plan on being here for a long time yet. Listen ta me, friendship ain’t always easy and there are times when something comes along knocks us down, but it’s worth weathering the storm for.” Applejack’s eyes widened in self awareness. “Will ya listen to me? Now ah sound like some sorta bookworm who goes around lecturing everypony.”

Twilight pulled out of the hug and flashed a weak smile, “Yeah… I guess you do. Maybe I just need to forgive myself. Just… please tell me you forgive me?”

“Ya never had ta ask.” The orange mare said with a wink,”Now, promise me you’ll get out of this stuffy old library and go see our friends. They’re all worried about ya.” The cowpony said moving to the door.

“wait!”

Applejack turned around just in time to be pulled into another hug.

“Thanks AJ, I guess sometimes we all need to be pulled out of the fire now and then.”

The cowpony chuckled, “Yup, now if you’ll excuse me, I've got a few more fires to put out.”

Twilight started sniffing the air around her.

“Ummm Applejack, i might be going crazy, but you smell like strawberries.”

Applejack rolled her eyes, “So ah’ve heard.”

“Ugh. Why am I doing this again?” Rainbow asked cutting her eyes angrily.

Needles glowing in bright blue magic skewered the dress in several places as Rarity tried to ignore the complaining pony modeling for her.

“Ow! Hey, watch it with those things!” Rainbow said stamping her hoof.

“Hmph, well if you hadn’t been fidgeting I wouldn’t have stuck you in the first place, and the reason you’re doing this is because Fluttershy is handling the farm today.” The unicorn stated tersely.

“Yeah, yeah. Where’s Applejack, she can do this can’t she?”

“She went to the library earlier to check on Twilight, and if you think I can get her to help with hemming up a dress, you’re crazier than our pink friend. I just hope she’s able to talk some sense into that unicorn.”

Rainbow rolled her eyes, “You and me both. I tried to check out a book yesterday and she stayed in her room the whole time. Spike had to do everything, she wouldn’t even talk to me.”

Rarity let loose a massive yawn. “Oh dear, my sincere apologies Rainbow, I’m usually not this sleepy.”

“Big order last night?”

Rarity focused her attention back on the dress, “Nothing of the sort. Applejack and I stayed up late last night listening to music.”

“Hah! And here I was thinking you two would rip each other’s hair out. “

Rarity growled under her breath. “The week isn’t over yet. When I cleaned her bathroom this morning I found her hair in the drain! Ugh. And this morning I woke up to find the kitchen a disaster area! Sure she cleaned it when she woke up, but it really should have been done last night.”

Rainbow smirked at the white mare, “Aha! So there is some trouble going down”

Rarity bit her lip, afraid she was coming off too negative, “Well I know she is still getting back on her feet from her accident so I’ve tried not to trouble her too much. She’s been awfully handy to have around. She’s a top notch chef, she’s good with Sweetie Belle, and there’s certainly something to be said about a rugged earth pony whose not afraid to get her hooves dirty. “ She prattled off with a smile.

Rainbow raised her eyebrows at the tirade, “Rarity…. if I didn’t know any better I’d say you seem a little obsessed with her...

Rarity scrunched her face.

“No…..”

She tilted her head away in shame.

“You’re joking, right?”

“Maybe?”

Rainbow fell to the ground, “Bwhahaha! You and Applejack!”

Rarity glared angrily at the Pegasus squirming in laughter. “And just what is so funny you… you overgrown pigeon!”

“Oh no, nothings wrong, this is absolutely perfect!” She raised her left hoof and started moving it in time to her voice.
“Oh no Applejack! This mud puddle is so deep and dirty!” she said with her best impression of Rarity. She moved to her other hoof, shaking it around in a similar manner.

“Don’t worry yer pretty head there none ya’ll! I’ll jus carry ya’ll across and such!” She continued, this time with a southern accent.

“Oh Applejack, you’re so brave and strong and sexy- ow! Hey!” Rainbow rubbed her flank with her hoof, after being drawn violently out of her performance art by a sharp needle.

Rarity tossed the needle aside looking irately at her friend, “That’s quite enough from you! Now you listen to me, you won’t breathe a word of this to anypony. Not a single one, and so help me Luna,if I even think you’ve talked I’ll make sure you and your wings have an 'accident' and that the only pony available to take care of you is Pinkie Pie!”

Rainbow’s eyes widened in horror. “Ok, ok! You win! But if you don’t mind my asking, when are you going to tell her?”

The unicorn’s face fell. “That’s just it, I don’t think I can, and even if I could, I doubt she would be interested in an uptown, fashion focused unicorn like me.” Rarity fell to her belly, and covered her face with her hooves. “Ohhhh this is just ridiculous! I should be chasing after some Canterlot noble, not some Ponyville farmer! Why am I doing this to myself!” She screamed in frustration.

Rainbow walked over to the prostrate mare and stuck out her hoof, “I’m not good at all this mushy stuff, But I'll give it a shot. Sometimes we just have to do something, like sometimes I just have to fly. I don’t know why, but I just do. The longer we ignore it the worse it gets. Sometimes you can’t just stand around and ignore yourself, sometimes you just gotta fly!”

Rarity offered a gracious smile and took her friend’s hoof to pull herself up. “Thanks Rainbow. I’m just not sure I can. Applejack doesn’t need somepony like me, she needs somepony dependable, somepony reliable, somepony strong enough to hold her up when she can’t stand. I’m afraid I’m not that strong.” She said, her voice trailing off.

The cyan mare snorted, “Hah! You’re stronger than you give yourself credit for, now I hate to sound antsy, but can we please get this done so I can get out of this dress?”

“Fine fine, hop back up here,” Rarity said tapping the pedestal. “I hope Applejack gets back soon, She knows I’ve no time to fix dinner if I want to get these orders done.”

Rainbow stamped the pedestal impatiently, “Hey! Less crowing, and more sewing!”

Orange hooves galloped through Ponyville, the sun had just dipped below the horizon spurring the mare forward. Since the accident she hadn’t used her saddlebags, but today they were a necessity. The added weight sapped her strength quicker than she expected, but she trudged forward through the pain. Finally the boutique came into view, giving herself a mental nudge she pushed herself even further until she finally reached the front door. Applejack opened the door noting that the lights in the showroom were off. A clamoring further in the building pushed her to the kitchen where she found two unicorns scrambling in the kitchen.

“What tha hay is goin on in here?”

Rarity turned to her with fire in her eyes, “We are trying to cook! You assured us that you would handle dinner arrangements, but dinner time came and I had to drop everything I was doing just to make sure we had something to eat! This is a recurring theme with you! Always running around completely oblivious to everypony else!”

Applejack marched over to the table removing something from her saddlebags and placed it on the table. “Ah knew ah would be a little late to make supper when I got back so I picked something up for dinner!” seeing the sudden change and vanishing anger in Rarity’s face she decided to drive the point home. “Maybe if ya’ll had a little bit of faith in me, ya’ll wouldn’t just assume ah’d screw something up, now if you’ll excuse me, ah think I’ll be off ta bed!” satisfied she had turned the knife enough she marched down the hall to her temporary bedroom and kicked open the door. Sweetie Belle poked her head out the kitchen,

“Uh Applejack, aren’t you going to eat anything?”

“Ah’ve lost mah appetite.” The orange mare said closing the bedroom door behind her. With a quick kick of her back legs she dislodged the saddlebags catching them by the strap in her mouth. She put them on the bedside table and hopped into bed. Her stomach growled at her protesting it’s deprivation of dinner, but this time she would let pride win out. She wanted to make sure she sent her point home to the prissy unicorn in the other room and the cost of doing so tonight would be an empty stomach. As soon as she closed her eye's, Applejack’s breath hitched at a sudden rumble from outside. She wasn’t sure if it was real or a hallucination until a bright flash lit up the room through the window.

“Applejack! Speak to me!”

The words echoed again in her mind. Her chest tightened and her heart beat faster as another flash of light burst through the room intruding upon the darkness. She jumped out of bed to the window drawing the curtains closed. With the window covered she jumped back into the bed, her heart still racing.

“Oh Celestia, please no! Somepony, please help me get her to the hospital!”

Twilight’s words echoed in her mind. Words she had forgotten thanks to the accident, now came flooding back to her. Lightning flashed again, despite the curtain, it still cut through the top and bottom of the cloth covering the window, refusing to be ignored. Thunder boomed through the quiet room pushing her into a higher state of panic. Out of ideas she threw the blanket over her head and covered her ears with her hooves, desperate to put herself out of the storm.

“Don't worry Applejack! We’re gonna make you better and then you can have all the treats you want, just hang in there!”

This time Pinkie’s words bounced in her skull, a voice filled with heartrending desperation she’d never heard from the pink pony before. Another flash filled the room, this time almost imperceptible under the safety of her blanket. Tears started down her face as she wished she could be near her family or anyone else for that matter. Time slipped away from her, but each flash of light, every rumble of thunder made her heart skip a beat as she relived her ordeal over and over again. At some point in the night her mind tired of fighting, and allowed her to mercifully fall asleep.

Chapter 5

Rainbow floated through the air obscured by a cloud she chose to carry out her plan. Despite her usual urge to fly as fast as she could, she reigned herself in and drifted along at a lazy pace. She knew one cloud blazing across the summer sky would attract unwanted attention and blow her cover, and indeed, her entire plan. Fuchsia eyes tracked her prey who remained blissfully unaware of the sinister presence above. An evil grin spread across the pegasus’ face while her target continued her happy jaunt through town. Normally Rainbow would be sleeping at this early hour, but thanks to Twilight’s insistence she found herself roused by her fellow weather team compatriots who found it necessary to bother her just to clear a few clouds above the apple orchard.

Rainbow was no fool, she knew there was only one reason the unicorn wanted the sky cleared, and with a quick glance down she received an enthusiastic all clear from her pink partner. Now perched high above her unsuspecting target, the multicolored mare ripped open her pouch carefully so as not to spill any of it's contents on herself. Using her acutely tuned intuition from years of weather work, she judged the wind speed and distance moving her cloud accordingly. Confident in her positioning, she tipped the pouch setting the fine particles free to drift in the breeze. Now all she had to do was wait.

It started with a quick flick of the ears, the calm before the storm. Rainbow laughed to herself quietly as the pony beneath her jerked her right rear leg to scratch her head in a comical fashion. The Pegasus glanced back over to see her pink friend also stifling a few giggles. Rainbow looked back at her target, the purple unicorn started rolling all over the ground in frustration biting and scratching like a mad-mare.

“What's happening to meeeeeee!”

Rainbow stared as Twilight bolted from her spot leaving her book and morning snack behind to fend for themselves in the early morning sun. Her mission accomplished, the pegasus pushed her cloud down to meet her prank partner.

“Oh man Pinkie, did you see how fast she ran?” She said high hoofing the pink mare.

Pinkie snorted as she struggled to speak through her laughter, “She ran away before we could tell her how to make it stop! She even left her book behind!”

Rainbow tucked the book away in her saddlebags. “I'll make sure she gets it back. OK, Pinkie, who’s next?”

The party pony put her hoof to her chin, “How aboooooout Rose?”

Rainbow smiled and pushed her cloud full speed back to Ponyville confident her friend would be right behind her given her propensity for catching her in the past. She spied Rose tending to her prized garden per usual this time of day.. She dashed right behind the unaware pony and hopped out of her cloud. Mustering her strength, she gave The cloud a swift and strong kick coaxing out a huge roar of thunder. Rose jumped into the air and took off like a shot further into town until she was just a speck in the distance.

“Bwahahahaha! I’ve never seen her run that fast, have you, Pinks?”

“And what do you two think yer doing!”

Pinkie and Rainbow halted their laughter long enough to notice Applejack glaring at them.

“Oh hey Applejack! Pinkie and I were pulling some pranks together, you wanna join us?”

Applejack stomped her hoof angrily, “I SAW what ya did, Rainbow! It wasn’t funny! Do ya think Rose is laughing right now birdbrain? And you Pinkie, How is giving a poor pony a coronary a laughing matter? You two are just a bunch of hooligans and ya should be ashamed of yourselves!” Pinkie and Rainbow cowered under the verbal assault as the orange mare left them with a snort.

“Geez, Whats HER problem?” Rainbow asked her pink cohort.

“I dunno! Applejack isn’t usually a mean old hootie patootie when we go pranking.” Pinkie replied with a shrug..

Rainbow took off without a word leaving the pink pony and her cloud in the dust. “Dashie! Where are you going?”

“Rarity’s! if somepony knows whats going on, it’s got to be her!”

Applejack slowed to a trot as she came upon her family’s cozy home. Having been away so long it felt good just to feel the grass under her hooves. Sure, grass grew all over Equestria, but there was something different about the grass at Sweet Apple Acres, something familiar and comforting. Despite her and her family’s absence the farm looked as it always had, the pigs were happy, the fields tended to, the sheep were corralled. Looking toward the barn she saw Fluttershy putting a half full bag of feed back in it’s proper place.

“Hey Fluttershy!”

The yellow Pegasus glanced around frantically, eye’s wide in panic until she realized it was Applejack calling her over. “Oh, hello Applejack, is everything all right? I thought you were supposed to be at Rarity's.”

The cowpony put her leg around the pegasus’ neck, “Don’t you worry none about that. Here, let’s get you inside and ah’ll fix ya up something ta drink. Ya probably worked up a mighty thirst doing everything yerself.” Applejack pushed the timid Pegasus into the farmhouse and motioned to one of the chairs in her living room. As soon as the pegasus took a seat, the cowpony made for the kitchen to fetch her friend some juice.

“Well…. It has been an exhausting day. I’m not quite used to working on the farm and taking care of the critters at home too…” The poor pegasus said with a sigh. Applejack poured a large glass of apple juice and carried it back to the living room for her tired friend.

“You girls have bent over backwards to help me and mah family out, I just hate having ta ask so much of ya’ll. “The orange mare spoke sadly, her voice trailing off.

Fluttershy blushed and started playing with her hooves nervously, “But you’ve done so much for everypony in Ponyville, it’s only fair for us to help out too…”

“Awww, well ah thank ya all tha same, sugarcube. I sure hope Rainbow’s been handling her own share of tha work, that no good featherbrain.”

“She has! She’s been such a big help, even when it’s my turn to work she usually comes over in the evenings and lends a hoof, in fact, this Monday she even took over the evening feeding. She was really worried when you ended up in the hospital.”

“Really? Rainbow of all ponies was worried?”

Fluttershy shook her head slowly, “She stayed with me the first day and we spent the first night talking about how much you meant to everyone... please don’t tell her I said that.” The pegasus pleaded.

The cowpony drew her hoof across her mouth pantomiming a zipper. “Don’t you worry, I’ll take it with me to tha grave!” Glancing back at Fluttershy she saw a horrified look plastered on her face. “Uhhh, poor choice of words, you ain’t gotta worry, I won’t say a peep to her about it.” Though Fluttershy wore a satisfied smile on her face, Applejack could tell there was something else on her friend's mind, “What’s wrong sugarcube?”

“Ummm, well, you acted like you were upset at Rainbow just a moment ago…”

Applejack slammed her hoof down on the floor, “Darn tootin! That no good varmint was goin around scaring ponies with her clouds and thunder and nonsense. The worst part was, Pinkie was egging her on! I could see Rainbow doing something like that, but Pinkie? She should know better!”

“But… That’s one of their normal pranks…” Fluttershy pointed out hesitantly.

Thinking to herself, Applejack did recall one day when Rainbow parked a cloud by the entrance of Sugarcube Corner and kicked out a few thunderclaps anytime a patron left the sweetshop. She even remembered laughing at the spectacle.

“Now that i think about it, yer right… somehow it just didn’t seem funny today.” A somber silence started to grip the room until the front door of the farmhouse opened and before Applejack knew what was happening, a yellow filly had wrapped her hooves around her legs.

“Applejack! I'm so glad ta see you!”

The cowpony reached down and nuzzled her little sister, "It’s good ta see you too Applebloom!” Looking back to the door she saw two more ponies headed her way. “Big Mac! Granny Smith, it’s good to see ya’ll!” she said dragging them into a hug as Applebloom bounced happily around them.

“See Granny? I told yah she’d be here waitin on us!”

As Applejack pulled out of the hug a green hoof bonked her in the head. “Ow! What in tarnation was that for!”

Granny Smith shook her cane towards the orange pony, “Fer not sendin us a letter er anythin! We had ta find out from tha princess herself when she came by ta test our apple pies fer tha contest!”

“Well…uhhhh… that was our fault really.” Fluttershy said raising her hoof meekly. “We all decided not to say or send anything, we knew Applejack probably wouldn’t want us to…”

Applejack stepped over to her timid yellow friend, “You’re right. I’d much preferred it if ya’ll stayed for tha rest of your trip. Ya’ll are three days early as is!”

Granny Smith started rummaging through her luggage obviously trying to find something, “Nonsense! We were getting bored of Canterlot anyway. A week in that place is enough to drive a country pony loony, much less two! Tha princess told us about how yer friends have been keepin tha farm going and helping ya out so we brought back some gifts! Fer Fluttershy here we got a new set of pajamas.” She said pulling out a beautiful yellow and pink set of pajamas and offering it to the Pegasus.

“Oh my, they’re lovely.” The pegasus pushed her face into the soft garments, “And they’re so soft! Thanks Granny Smith.” Fluttershy beamed towards the elderly mare.

“Tain’t nothing in tha grand scheme ‘o’ things really! Ya’ll did such a good job keeping tha farm tagether and looking after my dear Applejack, ah just had ta find some way ta show mah ‘preciation! We nabbed gifts for all ya’ll! We were even lucky enough ta nab a limited ahddition Thunderbolts poster fer that Rainbow filly!”

“It’s the Wonderbolts, Granny.” Applebloom corrected.

“Ah know it’s tha Blundercolts, that’s what ah said. Yer awful lucky ta have such good friends like these Applejack, don’t ya ferget that!” Granny said shaking her cane again.

“Ah know Granny. Seeing as how ya’ll are gonna be home ah ain’t gotta stay at Rarity’s no more. I’ll go get mah stuff so ah can sleep in mah own bed tonight!” Applejack said headed for the door.

“You tell that pretty unicorn friend of yer’s ta come get her gift now, ya hear? Better yet, tell all yer friends ta come by fer dinner tomorrow night… and I want some of them strawberries ya hidin, ya hear?” Granny shouted after her.

“I’m telling you Rarity, she was mad, madder than I’ve seen her in a long time.” Rainbow said pleading her case to the unicorn.

“Maybe you’re overreacting a little bit, Applejack’s just been under a lot of stress lately. You should really give her some leeway until everything gets back to normal.”

“I’m starting to think that lightning strike did more damage than we thought. We put together a mean storm last night, did she act weird or anything?”

Rarity bit her lip, she really didn’t want to tell Rainbow about her tantrum, especially since she ended up in the wrong. “We didn’t exactly go to sleep on good terms last night…” The front door slammed open interrupting their conversation. Applejack trotted into the main area of the boutique wearing a broad smile.

“Good news Rarity, my kin made it back today! Ya ain’t gotta worry about keeping an eye on me anymore. I’ll go grab my bags real quick like and be out of your hair tonight.” Applejack said with a wink. The unicorn felt her heart sink a little in her chest at the sudden announcement.

“Oh? Uhhh, are you sure dear? It’s not really a problem having you around.”

“Naw, I’m just glad I’ll be able to sleep in mah own bed tonight. You need me ta cook for you and Sweetie tonight?”

Rarity shook her hooves frantically, “No, no, darling, it’s quite alright. You can just grab your bags, I’ll handle cleaning your room later.”

“Are you sure?”

The unicorn waved the earth pony off with a smile, “Don’t worry my dear, just go fetch your bags. I’m sure you’re anxious to get back with your family.” Both ponies watched as Applejack took off down the hall.

“Looks like she's not holding a grudge over whatever happened last night, sooooooooooooooooo…” Rainbow started.

“So what?”

“Are you gonna tell her?”

“I told you Rainbow, there is no way she’s interested in somepony like me, besides, we are just as likely to kill each other as kiss each other.” Rarity proclaimed with a huff.

“Ha! Now that’s a fight I’d like to see. Maybe when everything calms down you should tell her.”

“Tell who what?” Applejack asked stepping back into the showroom.

Rarity’s eyes widened “Oh! We need to tell the others that you’ll be going back home of course! I’m sure Pinkie will want to throw some sort of soiree to celebrate”

“Well gimme a head start will ya? I’d like a lil R and R with mah folks before there’s any sort of party if ya don’t mind.” Applejack said, rolling her eyes.

Rainbow crossed her front legs, “I dunno… I don’t think Pinkie’s going to feel like throwing you a party anytime soon after what happened earlier.”

Applejack pulled her hat close to her chest. “Yer right Rainbow. I was outta line earlier and I’m sorry. Next time you see Pinkie can ya tell her for me?”

The cyan Pegasus let a smile spread across her face, “Aw, it’s no big deal, I’m sure she’s already forgiven you, and you know you’re cool with me.”

“Thanks ya’ll, for handling me like ya’ll have been. Granny and the others got each of ya’ll a lil something from Canterlot and she wants ya’ll to come over for dinner tomorrow as thanks for looking after me and keeping the farm going.”

Rarity's eyes lit up, “A gift? How thoughtful!”

Rainbow pulled out a notebook and started flipping through it randomly, “Tomorrow night huh? I may have to check my weather schedule to see if I’m available… unless of course Granny is gonna be cooking her famous apple sizzlers…”

“I’ll tell her to fire some up for ya!” Applejack said with a wink, “Now if you’ll excuse me, ah gotta get back home. See ya’ll later!” she called out closing the door behind her.

Rarity stared blankly at the door. She told herself it was good that Applejack was going home, that she could be close to the ones who cared about her most. Part of her knew it would be much quieter around the boutique without the cowpony and her rambunctious sister gallivanting around.

“Hellooooooo! Dash to Rarity, come in Rarity!”

“Huh?”

“I asked, are you really going to let her go that easily, but it looks like you’ve already made up your mind.”

The unicorn hunched back over her sewing machine resuming her tedious work on the dress she started earlier. “It’s nothing important Rainbow, just a silly crush. I’ll put it away and a few weeks from now I probably won’t think of it again.”

“Yeah yeah, we’ll see about that.” Rainbow replied pushing open the front door. “By the way, We’re putting together another storm tonight so if you’ve got any clothes on the line you better bring them in.”

“Thanks a lot darling. I’ll send Sweetie after them in a few minutes, mind how you go!” Rarity called after her.

The bell on the front door chimed softly announcing the pegasus’ departure.

Applejack strolled out of the bathroom still damp from her shower. A small line of water droplets trailed behind marking the path she took to her bed. A quick rummage through her saddlebags confirmed her fears.

“Aw nuts… I left mah brush at Rarity’s. I’ll have to stop by sometime tomorrow and pick it up.” Looking out her window she could see the evening sun peeking through clouds on it’s way down to the horizon. Normally she would stay up later into the night, but an evening of catchup with the family and a home cooked meal weighed her down calling her into bed. She enjoyed the feeling of comfort and familiarity as she slid between her sheets anxious to get some real sleep after the restless evening she suffered through last night. Just as she closed her eyes a distant rumble sounded in the distance forcing them wide open again.

“Should I put the bed clothes in the laundry room?” Asked Sweetie Belle.

“Yes dear, please do. I’ll handle washing them tomorrow. I don’t think I’ll be putting the boxes back in here, such a waste of a good bedroom. Maybe I should invite the girls over for a sleep over one night.” Rarity pondered out loud.

“Oooh! Oooh! Oooh! Can Applebloom and Scootaloo come too?” The unicorn filly asked excitedly.

“Sweetie, our idea of a slumber party may not match exactly what you girls have in mind…”

“Oh, you mean you and Applejack are going to play “spin the bottle” or “seven minutes in heaven?”

“Come now Sweetie, Applejack and I are grown mares. We don- What! where did you hear about such things?” Rarity's eyes bulged out momentarily in disbelief of her sister’s apparent knowledge of such lewd activities. “Never mind that, you shall not breathe a single word of my feelings for Applejack or Celestia help me every single corkboard, lamp post, and shop window in Ponyville will feature every foalhood photo of you that I can find, do i make myself clear?” The unicorn asked with fire in her eyes.

“Jeez! OK! OK! I was just joking anyway.” Sweetie reassured, rolling her eyes. An off tempo tapping upon the roof of the shop caught both ponies attention as the clouds above the shop released their payload pelting the boutique in a downpour. A brilliant flash of light illuminated the room followed by a deep rumble which reverberated through the quiet shop.

“Oh my, Rainbow certainly wasn’t bluffing when she said there would be a storm tonight. You did bring the clothes in earlier didn’t you?”

“Opps…..”

Rarity let out a small sigh, “Oh well, sometimes rainwater makes them smell better than just plain soap. I’m sure they’ll be fine once they’re dry.”

“Hey, look what I found!” Sweetie proclaimed triumphantly holding up a brush. The apple iconography emblazoned on the handle left no doubt as to the owner of the brush.

“That’s just like her to forget something so important.” Rarity said rolling her eyes.

Sweetie stared at the brush questioningly. “It’s just a brush… whats the big deal?”

“It’s a crime against fashion, that’s the big deal! She has such nice long flowing blonde hair and it would look magnificent if she kept better care of it.” The unicorn said wistfully. Another peal of thunder shook the shop drawing her eyes to the window again. “Sweetie, how would you like to stay with Pinkie Pie tonight?”

“Really?” the filly asked, her eyes filling with awe.

“Grab your overnight bag, I’m sure she won’t mind…”

The windows rattled in the old farmhouse with every thunderclap. Applejack sought refuge under her blanket shielding her eyes from the insistent flashes from the lightning outside. The voices of her friends came back again, frantic and filled with concern they chipped at her emotional defenses breaking down her will until the tears started gathering in her eyes. She hated feeling weak and vulnerable, how was she supposed to help anyone else out when she couldn’t help herself? As much as it comforted her to know her family was right outside the door, there was no way in Equestria she could go to them. Her pride simply wouldn’t suffer such an indignity. She heard what sounded like the creaking of the house settling, it's floors protesting their age and overuse. The familiar sounds of the old house helped her focus on something other than the torrential downpour pelting her home and keeping her awake.

“Psst! Applejack!”

The orange mare’s heart jumped into her throat, she knew exactly who that voice belonged to, but she didn’t dare make a movement or sound even going so far as to hold her breath. The covers started lifting off the bed allowing the slight ambient light to intrude under her blanket. She quickly turned her head away anxious to keep her tears to herself. Her heart skipped a beat when she felt the unicorn crawl under the blanket occupying the space next to her. She waited for the unicorn to start talking, to ask her what was wrong, or even give some sort of rational explanation as to why she had snuck into her house and crawled into bed with her. Instead she felt her soft white friend lean into her side, the pleasant body heat spreading from her side of the bed, her perfume and shampoo trapped under the blanket drowning her mind in sweet smells. The tears stopped and her fear of the storm was replaced by another fear altogether, one she wasn’t sure she should actually be scared of.

“What in the name of Luna's moon are ya’ll doing here?” She whispered trying to sound angry. A plastic object poked her in the side.

“You left your brush at the boutique…”

“Yer joking, right? You came out in this storm just to bring mah brush back to me?” Applejack whispered back.

“Well… not exactly.”

Applejack could hear the unease in her friend’s voice, the lack of confidence the white mare usually carried.

“Out with it then!” She hissed at the unicorn only to feel her flinch at the outburst. She instantly felt bad for being so harsh.

“I… well I wanted to make sure you were OK and that the whole lightning incident didn’t leave you with any lasting damage… but I think we both know it has.” Rarity said hesitantly. Applejack felt the unicorn slowly wrap her leg around her seemingly waiting for some sort of protest.

“Ah think you’ve got a lil mud on your hooves there Rare…”

“Oh! I can go wa-“

“No! Ah mean, no, that’s OK. Ah don’t mind.” Applejack said leaning back into her friend. She could never imagine this happening a few days ago and the very idea would’ve scared the freckles off her cheeks, but now that it was real and happening, she was enjoying it… a lot. "If ah didn't know any better ah would think there might be more to your calling than just a friendly visit and returning mah brush."

Applejack shuddered as a new and pleasant sensation coursed through her as Rarity started running her hooves through her long blonde hair.

"I'm not arguing with you dear."

Despite the affectionate displays Rarity had already shown her, the idea of the prim and proper seamstress falling for a pony like her seemed impossible.

“This is some sorta joke, right? Why me? Why not some highfalutin Canterlot pony, or a showpony or something?”

Rarity stayed silent for a few moments leaving the orange mare to wonder if that was the best question for her to ask.

“I would be lying if I said I knew why. I asked myself the same thing every night my mind wandered to you as if it were some sort of joke played upon me by the cosmos. After a while and some help from a mutual friend I learned that the heart wants what the heart wants, and nothing will change that.” Both ponies stayed silent for a time drinking in each others company as the rain pattered at a steady rhythm.

“Rarity, ah have to be honest with ya, ah’ve never really thought about ya like that mostly cause I woulda never dreamed you’d look twice at a mare like me. I’m willing ta give this a shot, but this is tha only me ya get. I’m not perfect nor do I pretend to be. Ah am who I am and you’ll have to accept that.” another bout of silence from the unicorn ignited Applejack’s fear that she may have been too negative, too quick to put her heel down in the mud.

“I think I can deal with that. I believed I wasn’t good enough for you, that you needed somepony stronger than me to carry you through. It’s only now I realize that strength comes in many different forms. I may not be able to throw a bale of hay, or pull an applecart through the fields, or kick trees all day, but I’ll always be a shoulder you can lean on. I hope that it’s enough.”

Applejack turned to the unicorn, this time she didn’t try to hide the tears beneath her eyes, instead she chose to outshine them with a smile. “It’s more than ah could’ve asked for.” Both ponies curled up in a warm embrace sharing the night together, Oblivious to the chaos of the storm outside as they took refuge in each others arms.

Epilogue

“Bleugh! Yuck!” Rarity pulled her head out of a large puddle and spat out a mouthful of mud.” What in Equestria do you think you’re doing you mad mare!” She yelled angrily at the pony who had just pushed her out of the comfort of her boutique and into the pouring rain. Her answer came in the form of hoof which pushed her on her side.

“I’m gonna get you nice and dirty, in fact, ah might not leave a single speck of white showing on yer pampered flank!” Applejack said in a menacing tone. Rarity felt her body move again as the orange mare pushed her onto her back. She stared in horror as the cowpony scooped up a hoof-full of mud and smeared it all over her pristine and white belly.

“Whhhhhhhy! Why would you do this to meeeeeee?” the unicorn cried out in anguish as the mud stained her beautiful white coat a hideous shade of brown. “I thought we had an understanding, a connection! Whhhhhy!”

Rarity’s cries of distress ceased as the pony above her reached into her saddlebags and pulled out a bottle with It's label facing outward so she could read it clearly. “ Diva Dee-vine’s Strawberry scented bubble bath. Escape into fruity fields of ecstasy from the comfort of your tub.”

“Ah got the entire set earlier when ah was in town. Tha bath wash, shampoo, conditioner, bubble bath and even tha frilly spongy thingie. Ah thought we might try it out tonight, but I wanted ta make sure you were nice and dirty.” Applejack said over the rain pattering gently around them.

“You want to take a bath? With moi?” Rarity asked.

“Woah nelly!” Applejack yelped out as two mostly white hooves pulled her to the mud caking the orange mare in the runny brown substance.

“You’re absolutely right darling. We can’t just waste such a wonderful product on a plain old romantic bath. How did you know I liked the smell of strawberries so much anyway?”

“Cause ah can’t ever keep yer hooves outta mah hair when ah wash with it.”

Rarity smiled, she hadn't realized just how much she played with the rough and tumble pony’s hair. She admired a lot of qualities in her new partner, many of which she was learning for the first time since they made their relationship official three months ago, but her hair still remained in the top five. A distant peal of thunder echoed across the sky announcing to all it’s power and fury. The unicorn glanced back at Applejack looking for any sign of anxiousness or fear and found none. “I must say, you’ve made significant strides since that night I found you hiding under your blanket.”

Applejack continued staring into the sky. “Ah’d be lyin if ah said it don’t scare me. It still makes me wanna run like a filly in a haunted house, but having you by mah side means ah’m not alone anymore, and ah can face anything tha world throws my way.”

Rarity was happy. Really happy. Not like some quick burst of happiness when a Canterlot elite strolled through her door, or after one of Pinkie’s parties, she had found lasting happiness in being a solid foundation for one of the strongest ponies in Equestria, in being a rock that the cowpony could always count on. She had finally found true happiness in the mare beside her. Rising to her hooves, the unicorn pulled Applejack up and wrapped a hoof around the filthy mare. “What say we give that bath set a proper workout darling?”

“Ah thought you’d never ask.”