Sunlight sneaked through the edges of the curtains in an uncomfortable intrusion on her enhanced slumber. She pulled the covers over her head in an attempt to salvage a few more minutes of rest. An uncomfortable fuzzy dryness seemed to cover the insides of her mouth except for a sour taste at the very back of her tongue. The extra covers did not help. Consciousness gradually invaded her mind, and with it came a feeling that her horn would pop of her head if she moved the wrong way.
“Bleh. I am never drinking that much again,” Rarity whispered to herself.
She took stock of her memories. A small sense of guilt was overpowered by a much greater feeling of contentment. Last night, or rather this morning, had been very nice, if a bit tawdry. Physically, other than the intense hangover, she felt a bit like she had exercised. It felt positively wonderful, and partially offset the otherwise bad sensations her nerves sent her. She thought back and giggled, rolling over on one side and giving a couple of small kicks with her rear legs. It had started so innocently.
********
“Aww, shucks, Rarity. You don't have to go to all that trouble. We all put our hoof in a cowpie every once in a while,” Applejack said.
“It is no trouble. I feel positively horrible for having such an extreme reaction to events, and I insist on treating you to a spa visit.” She saw the look on Applejack's face and continued, “Unless you really do not want to. I don't want to force you into something, dear. But you do clean up rather well. And you must be tired after all the preparations for Ponyville Days.”
Applejack considered the hot bath and expert hooves of Aloe. That, plus Rarity's sad face, sealed the deal. “OK. I have some chores to finish back at the farm, so how about tomorrow? I can do a few things today to get ahead, so I'll have the afternoon available.”
“That will be fine, Applejack. I'll make our reservations for mid-afternoon. Come by the Boutique and we will go together. See you then,” Rarity confirmed. She picked up her bag of apples and left Applejack's market stall.
********
Rarity was in the back of her shop working on a gold-trimmed green evening dress when her doorbell rang and somepony entered. Needles and spools of thread hovered around her, and she wore a set of red-framed glasses to see the finer details of her project.
“I'll be right there,” she sang out.
“It's just me, Rarity,” Applejack called back. She walked to the back room of the Boutique and watched Rarity create. “I'm done at the farm. Can I help you with anything before we go?”
“Thank you, dear, but no. Do make yourself at home. I am just about finished here.” Rarity sewed to a stopping point and put aside her tools and the glasses. She levitated a nearby brush and touched up her mane.
“That's looking mighty nice, Rarity. Is it for anypony in particular?” Applejack asked.
Rarity smiled at Applejack and said, “That? Why yes, it is for a customer. She's attending a wedding in Canterlot and needed something for the reception.” She put the brush down and checked her curls with a shake of her head. “Are you ready?”
“Sure. Lead the way.”
Aloe and Lotus were waiting for them with a tray of freshly-mixed mimosa cocktails when they arrived at the spa.
“Whoo, Rarity, it's not even quitting time yet. I don't know if I should,” Applejack fretted.
“Nonsense, darling. It's just a little champagne and orange juice,” she countered. “Oh! But don't worry, I won't tell anypony about the oranges.” Rarity daintily giggled and touched Applejack on the shoulder.
“Heh, well, I suppose I'm not doing anymore work today, anyway,” Applejack relented and took the flute. She sipped tentatively and nodded. “That is good enough to be dangerous.”
Aloe nodded and invited the mares to the back. “This way ladies, if you please.”
They followed Aloe to the first room in their voyage. The waiting hot tub was empty of other ponies; its roiling surface spritzy as bubbles burst the surface. Wisps of steam floated above the hot scented water. The air in the room smelled of wildflowers in spring. Applejack took off her hat and set it on a bench next to the pool before dipping into the water and sitting next to Rarity.
“Now that hits the spot. Rarity, I'm already glad that you invited me out today.”
“Applejack, you could come here regularly. Fluttershy and I spend a little time here each week. We don't always get the full treatment, mind you, but a little pampering makes a pony feel special,” Rarity said.
They enjoyed the silence for a minute and sipped their drinks. Applejack spoke up again.
“So, Trenderhoof. I'm sorry he turned out to be such an ass.”
Rarity sighed and took an almost un-ladylike gulp from her cocktail before sinking a little lower in the hot tub. “It is not your fault, dear. Honestly, I'm not sure what I was hoping for. Did I expect him to move here to Ponyville to court me, or sweep me away to travel with him? I swear I sometimes think with the wrong end of my body.” She laughed nervously at her own joke.
Applejack moved closer to Rarity and patted her on the shoulder. “It's ok, sugarcube. He was kinda cute, if a might bit skinny. Seems he could use another sandwich at lunch. But don't worry. I'm sure you'll find your perfect stallion.”
“Oh, I do hope so. But after Trenderhoof and Blueblood, I'm not sure I can trust my judgment when it comes to matters of the heart.”
Lotus noticed that the drinks were empty, and brought out fresh glasses. Condensation ran down their sides in the increased humidity of the steamy room.
“Well, you do have your friends to help out. Trust me, we'll let you know if you're setting your eyes on a bad horse.”
Rarity thought about that, and turned the conversation on Applejack. “Well, you all know about my crushes and hopes. But what of yours? Is there anypony who has caught your eye?”
“Me? Not right now.” Applejack sipped her fresh drink. “I'm too busy running the farm and raising Apple Bloom to think about that. I barely get any time to myself. Can't imagine how strung out I'd be trying to run around with some stallion,” Applejack replied. She waved her legs through the water and took another drink of her mimosa, then laid her head back on a towel.
“The farm and family does keep your schedule full. But what of relaxation? Do you ever...seek release?”
Applejack sat up and eyed Rarity, a shocked look on her face. “Now that's a bit personal. It's not something I'm comfortable talking about, good friend or not. But I get by.” She laid her head back down on the towel.
“I did not mean to pry. But everypony has needs, and it is OK to admit that,” Rarity offered, then giggled into a hoof. “I 'get by' as well. There are more ways to release tension than coming to the spa.”
She asked no more questions, and after a few more minutes Lotus came in with warm towels for the mares. They toweled off, not completely dry, and walked to the mud pits.
“I still think it's funny you pay money to soak in this mud,” Applejack said as she lowered herself into the heated ooze.
“Oh, but the minerals in this mud are simply wonderful for your skin. And they do not simply pick up dirt from anywhere and throw it in here; this is a special formula designed by doctors,” Rarity countered.
Once they settled into the hot bath, the spa ponies spread mud on their guest's faces, and topped each eye with a slice of cucumber. Aloe offered additional slices to Applejack as a snack.
“Don't mind if I do. Thanks for remembering, Aloe,” Applejack said.
Aloe merely smiled before she disappeared again. Her soft hoofsteps were the only thing that told the blinded pony of her departure.
Quiet instrumental music accented the ambiance of the room, and Rarity noticed how the scent changed from wildflowers to a subtle fragrance of evergreen trees and vanilla.
“Do you ever wonder where we will all be five years from now?” Rarity questioned.
“I think most of us will still be right here. Sweet Apple Acres isn't going anywhere. There's no way Fluttershy will leave her critters. Twilight's got that new castle, and Pinkie Pie might open a store separate from Sugarcube Corner, but it'll probably still be in town. I think you and Rainbow Dash are the only two who might move. It'd be kinda weird without you or RD, but I know you'd be living your dream.” Applejack reached the bottom of her second cocktail and set the glass aside.
“I would be a liar if I said I did not think of moving from Ponyville. But since we have all become friends, I feel that this is where my true home is. I would like to open a shop in Canterlot, of course, as well as Manehattan, but I can't imagine moving away from you girls.”
“This town would be a little less fabulous without you, Rarity.”
Rarity smiled through her mud mask and carefully sipped her cocktail before replying, “Don't worry, Applejack. Coco Pommel is doing well in Manehattan, and I think it will be some time yet before I can open a store in Canterlot.”
Two sets of hooffalls sounded near the mares, and Lotus announced their presence with a clearing of her throat.
“Ladies, it's time for your massages.”
Rarity and Applejack made their way out of the thick mud and stepped into nearby shower stalls to rinse the remaining silt and volcanic ash from their bodies. Aloe and Lotus assisted as necessary with flexible shower heads and rubber curry combs. They dried off again, thoroughly this time, and went into the massage room. The two ponies laid face-down on the tables and stared at the floor through the face rings.
Applejack felt the warm oil pour onto her body as Aloe prepared her for the massage. It was fragrant, and reminded her of Empire apples grown late in the season.
“That's a mighty nice smell, Aloe,” she complemented.
“Thank you, Applejack,” Aloe said. She worked her hooves into Applejack's firm neck muscles.
Applejack closed her eyes and tried to focus on nothing, just letting her consciousness float away with the tensions Aloe was working out of her muscles.
Lotus took care of Rarity, spreading an almond-scented oil on her alabaster coat. Rarity was more used to the caring touch of the spa ponies, and relished the touch of familiar hooves.
“Lotus, you do know how to keep me coming back,” Rarity said. “This is another reason I would never leave Ponyville for good.”
“Thank you, Miss Rarity,” Lotus responded. She massaged over Rarity's withers.
“That is always a tight spot for me. I really should learn to relax under pressure. Applejack, you never seem to be too bothered about events. What is your secret?”
Applejack came back from her floating sea and said, “Shoot, Rarity. I kick trees all day long. Plenty of time to work out frustrations. But this sure does relax Bucky and Kicks.” Aloe had worked down Applejack's back and was now kneading the strong muscles of her legs. “I'm starting to feel like I could go harvest half the orchard tonight.”
“Maybe you could teach me the finer points of bucking. I certainly did not do very well recently,” Rarity pouted.
“Tell you what. You come on down when you want. I'll teach you what I know. Just...no boots, ok? And before you say anything, I'll show you how to keep your hooves from cracking,” Applejack promised.
“I'll do it. But don't feel bad if I show you up.”
They both giggled, then fell into silence for a time as the massage continued. Eventually, Lotus and Aloe brought warm, damp towels and wiped off the excess oil. Coats cleaned and moisturized, they rolled off the tables and back onto their hooves.
“And now, my favorite!” Rarity clopped her hooves. “Hairstyles and hooficures!”
They laid back on the well-cushioned chairs in the hair salon and let the stylists do their magic. Two more mares came in to assist with the hooficures.
“Would you like color on your hooves, Miss?” the first mare asked Rarity.
“That would be a nice change. How about a blue to match my cutie mark? And please polish my shoes a little, too,” Rarity responded.
“What about you, Miss?” the second mare asked Applejack.
“Oh, no color for me. Just a light buff and clear enamel, thank you kindly,” Applejack requested.
Rarity felt almost surrounded as the mares began washing and polishing her various bits. Lotus was building a thick lather in her mane with a wonderful lilac shampoo, and the pony at her hooves had a very delicate, precise touch with her emery board.
Where Rarity was feeling surrounded, Applejack was almost overwhelmed. Being touched by so many hooves at once was not something she was used to. She wiggled slightly in her chair.
“Umm, Miss, I don't think I got your name,” Applejack nervously asked the mare who was currently polishing a rear hoof.
She paused her filing and looked up. “I am Bom Kkoch.” She pointed her file at the other mare. “My sister is Yangbaechu Kkoch. We are from Ponetaek. Please call me Bom.”
Aloe sensed the tension and brushed a hoof through Applejack's mane. “We just hired them. They are very good.” She rubbed Applejack's temples and stroked her forehead before returning to shampooing her customer's long blonde hair.
“Applejack, why did you leave Manehattan?” Rarity asked after a short silence.
It was a simple question. Applejack had answered it before; several times, in fact. The mimosas and the open atmosphere of the spa made her feel like explaining a little more.
“Well, you know how I told y'all about feeling alone, and seeing the rainbow over the sunrise? That's all true. When I left Manehattan, I left a world of high fashion, cultured ponies, and social grace. Parts of it were nice. Ponies looked at me, and they saw a filly who was destined for something greater. It turns out that the hard-working values I learned on the farm transferred to being a socialite. Work, work, work. Dress up, talk nice, smile at everypony.
“The week the rainboom came, my aunt and uncle were just starting to introduce me to some colts. I'd met a couple. They were ‘Colts of Industry', as my aunt put it. Heh. If it weren't for Rainbow Dash, I'd probably be married off to some high-falutin' business pony by now. But that morning, when I woke up before sunrise and called out to the sun? When the rainbow showed up above Ponyville, I knew I had to be free. Free to make my own decisions. Free to succeed or fail. You might not think Sweet Apple Acres is the place for liberty, but it is for me.”
Rarity had no response. She had not expected such an outpouring from the farmer. She had to say something, though, to encourage Applejack's open sharing.
“Oh. I never knew.”
“It's not something I go blabbing on about. I really do love being a farmer. And the Apple family will always stick together.”
Aloe rinsed Applejack's hair, and toweled it mostly dry. She used an enchanted dryer for the final touches and tied the mane with a fresh red ribbon. Lotus worked on Rarity's mane for a bit longer; getting the right amount of spring in her curls took some effort. Bom and Yangbaechu completed their work as the manes were finished.
“Ladies, we are finished. Would you take a look in the mirrors and make sure everything meets with your approval?” Lotus asked.
Rarity and Applejack walked over to the waiting mirrors and posed, both for themselves and for the other ponies in the room.
“Mighty nice. Thank you, everypony,” Applejack complemented.
“Indeed. I especially like the color of my hooves. It is a perfect match, Miss Kkoch,” Rarity said. She turned to Applejack. “You look marvelous. Have you ever met Photo Finish?”
Applejack laughed and said, “I've heard enough about her from Fluttershy. But thanks, Rarity.”
“Ladies, you've done a superb job yet again,” Rarity said. “I am in your debt. Thank you for a wonderful afternoon.” Turning to Applejack, she asked, “It is approaching dinner time. Would you like to go to Haute Cuisine's? It's my treat.”
“Aww, Rarity, you've treated me to the spa. I got dinner.”
“Very well.” Rarity put a tip in the jar on their way out. “Don't forget your hat.”
“Like I could ever do that.” Applejack laughed and flipped the cover onto her head.
They walked to the restaurant. It was the nicest restaurant in Ponyville, and served food from all regions of Equestria.
“It's a nice afternoon. Want to sit on the patio?” Applejack asked her companion.
“That will be fine. There is hardly a breeze, so my hair will be safe.”
They were seated quickly, and perused the menu for a short time before Savoir Fare came to take their order.
“And what will you ladies have this afternoon?” he asked in a not-quite-condescending tone.
“I will have the eggplant frittata with a spinach salad,” Rarity was first to order.
Applejack looked over the menu a bit longer before making her choice, and finally spoke up, “I'll have the celery and potato soup, with a side of apple pie.”
“Oh, and also a bottle of chardonnay for the two of us,” Rarity ordered.
Savoir Fare dipped his head and acknowledged, “Of course, mesdames.” He took their menus and went inside.
“Apple pie? Don't you get enough of that at home?” Rarity quizzed Applejack.
“Oh, we do. But I like to try others, and see if they're doing something better than we are. Call it 'market research'.”
The waiter returned with the wine and a small plate of sliced Camembert.
Rarity sipped the wine and responded, “Oh, I do understand that. I take my fashion magazine costs as a tax deduction under the claim of market research. If I did not, there is no way I could afford so many, and it would be much more difficult to stay ahead of the game.”
Applejack bit into a piece of creamy cheese followed up with some wine, and exclaimed, “This is pretty good.”
“I do like a good soft cheese,” Rarity replied and nibbled her own piece.
“So, Rarity, got any big plans for the holiday this year?”
“Not yet. I will probably go to my parents' house on Hearth's Warming for the day. I am still looking for a good gift for Sweetie Belle. What about you?”
“We might have a couple of cousins come in from out of town. Typical fun with the Apple family kind of thing.”
The waiter brought out their plates and asked, “Can I get you anything else?”
Rarity replied, “We are fine, thank you Savoir Fare.”
They ate for a minute. Applejack was the first to speak.
“This apple pie is pretty good. But I don't think we'll be changing our recipe. How's your frittata?”
“It is delightful. The eggplant is not soggy, and the mushrooms are fresh and tasty. They do make delicious food here.”
Rarity demurely ate her meal in the late afternoon sun. The slight breeze brought a freshness to her as it whisked through her newly styled hair; she couldn't help but notice the looks of some stallions and even a couple of mares as they passed on the sidewalk. She felt oh-so-pretty as she and Applejack dined al fresco.
“Applejack, have I ever told you about the time I went to Las Pegasus?”
Applejack put down her empty glass and responded, “No, I don't think you have. When was that?”
“It was before Twilight came to live here; before we all knew one another like we do now. I went there on a conference. Ponies from across Equestria came to show their clothing lines, much like the contest in Manehattan.
“I took several dresses, and thought I would win.” She paused and sipped her wine, then continued, “The dresses were magnificent. I took the best of what Canterlot, Maredrid, and Prance offered and combined them into one.
“I was backstage, making my final preparations. The models were all dressed to make their walk, when a mare came running up from the audience door. She jumped in between myself and the models, reared up on her back hooves, and yelled, 'You can't go on, Miss Rarity!'
“I, of course, reacted with total calm and understanding. I had her sit down and explain what was the matter. She told me that some ponies had been talking in the audience, and that my show should not go on. It was causing quite a stir. Other designers were talking about my line. They thought that by combining styles I was not committing to anything in particular. I decided to not listen to the mare, and proceed as planned.
“My models did their best. They went out on the catwalk, proud of chest and with high steps, pausing at the end to ensure every camera got its shot. They were such experts.” She drank. “When the competition was complete, I realized that the mare from the audience was correct. I had not made any decision. I learned that day that while a pony can take cues from other sources, she must eventually make her own choices.”
Applejack finished her pie and said, “That makes sense. You know, before we actually grow apple trees, we have to decide what to plant. Sometimes that means years in advance. There are certain apples that grow at certain times. We have to consider soil conditions. There are different harvest times. The Zap Apples are always crazy. I hope I really figure them out before Granny...well, you know,” Applejack replied before quaffing her glass.
Rarity coughed an “Ahem” before her reply. “I do. Applejack, do you know that my grandmother was also a designer?”
“No, I didn't know that,” Applejack replied.
“She was. My mother is not one; outside of the house, that is. But my grandmother was a fashionista in Canterlot. She worked there for years, designing dresses and suits for ponies. But she eventually tired of working in the city, and moved out here to raise her family. She continued to design dresses, but had no studio. She had a loyal pool of clients, and made house calls for proposals and fittings. She got to travel a lot that way.
“Eventually, of course, she had to stop. She was always happy, right up until her last days. The things that she cherished the most were her family, and the relationships she built with her clients. She told me that she could not have had such a fulfilling life without moving out of Canterlot.” Rarity forked the last bite of her dinner, and chewed thoughtfully.
Savoir Fare returned to the table and asked, “Can I get you ladies anything else?”
Applejack said, “No, I think we're about done here. I'll take the check.”
“Thank you again for dinner, Applejack.”
“Don't mention it,” she said, and paid the waiter.
They stood up, and walked out of the restaurant towards the town square.
“Applejack, I have some new designs, and I would like your opinion on them. Could I show them to you this evening?” Rarity asked.
“My opinion?” Applejack said, surprised. “Well, sure, but I'm probably not the mare to ask about fashion stuff.”
“Oh, but I think you're the best mare to give me your thoughts for this line. It is a small series of clothing made for outdoor ponies. Quite a departure from my normal style.”
They walked back to the Boutique as the sun dipped below the horizon, and a full moon rose to light the night. Rarity opened the door and let Applejack go in first.
“I do hope you like the designs. I tried to consider utility and durability before fashion.”
“That must've been a challenge,” Applejack said with a mischievous grin.
“Really, Applejack. I am capable of designing to specifications and not simply leading the fashion trends.” She smiled and continued, “I did have to refrain from adding lace edging in a few places. Before we get started, how about a glass of port? I have a new bottle I wanted to try.”
“Whew, Rarity. We've been drinking all afternoon. I can hold my cider better than most, but are you trying to get me drunk or something?”
“Of course not, Applejack. I just like to ‘let loose’ a little on spa days. And while Fluttershy is a fun partner, she rarely drinks more than a glass.”
Applejack grinned and said, “She is a lightweight. Girl came over for a picnic one time and had a few ciders, and I mean few as in three. She darn near walked into a tree right outside the house. And the giggles! I heard her laughing for at least five minutes after she was out of sight.”
“Yes, although I cannot imagine Angel Bunny is much help in taking care of her animals if she is tipsy. Anyway, go ahead to the back room. I will get the port.”
Applejack walked into the workroom and looked at the items of pony clothing in various stages of construction. It wasn't long before Rarity returned with a tray containing a bottle and two small glasses. She poured the tawny liquid into the glasses and passed one to Applejack.
She brought out a dressed pony model from behind a screen and set it in front of the raised fitting stand. “OK,” Rarity began. “The first item is a rain coat. I know such things already exist, but I wanted to add something extra. These are constructed of a cloth I designed. It is a very tight weave of yarn and is enchanted to repel water, while allowing moisture to pass from the inside out. It should help prevent sweating within the coat, which I find terribly icky. The sleeves are articulated so the wearer has full use of her legs, and the hood prevents water from running down the neck and onto one's withers.”
Applejack drank and replied, “That's mighty nice. Does the enchantment work? And it's bright, too. A pony won't get lost wearing that.”
“It worked in my shower; I admit it still needs field testing. The color is so ponies feel a little fabulous on an otherwise dreary day.” She sipped her port and brought out the next outfit.
“This one is for colder weather. There is not much outdoor work in the deep winter, but ponies still like to travel. The snowshoes will keep them from sinking into snow, and the coat is actually three coats. You can choose different layers depending on the temperature and your level of activity, and they are form fitting to permit freedom of movement. The included pack allows for storage of the layers as well as a color-coordinated thermos for hot beverages. And before you say anything, yes, it is bright. I suppose I could make it in drab colors if somepony so desired.”
“Rarity, you just did this? I mean, nopony commissioned it or anything? It doesn't seem like your normal thing,” Applejack said curiously.
“Well, it never hurts to challenge one's creativity. Plus, I was bored. I do high fashion so often that I wanted to do something a bit more utilitarian. Sometimes it gets a bit quiet here with just Opalescence and myself.” She drank her port and refilled the glasses.
“Got anything else?”
“I do.” She brought out a third outfitted ponyquin. “This is the last one. While the previous outfits were for cold or wet weather, this is for the pony who travels through the drier parts of Equestria and beyond. It is a light fabric which protects from the direct rays of the sun. It will provide a bit of cooling shade as well as protect the skin from sunburn. As you can see, it does not cover the legs. Instead, it uses light straps to stay on the wearer. There are lightweight rib-type reinforcements which lift the fabric off the body to allow more airflow. It should work out quite nicely. Perhaps a summer trip back to Appleoosa will be a good time to test it.”
“Wow, Rarity. You sure don't slack off on your quiet time. I bet these are gonna sell great. Do you have distribution or marketing separate from your normal fashion lines?”
Rarity brightened. “You really like them? You are the first pony to see them. I was not sure that they would be anything more than flights of fancy. Oh, Applejack, I do hope ponies see their usefulness. As for marketing and distribution, I was going to start here at the Boutique, and maybe work at expanding into other rural towns. I don't think citizens of Canterlot would buy snowshoes.”
“Yeah, I bet they keep the streets pretty clear of snow and ice in the capital,” she said, and sipped her port. “You always know what ponies need. I'm glad you're my friend.” Applejack reached over and hugged her.
Rarity returned the hug and said, “And I am glad to be your friend.” She stood back and continued, “You know, if Twilight saw us tonight, she probably would not believe how well we were getting along. It is good we got to know each other, Applejack.”
They sat on a couch in the studio and shared small talk. Opalescence hopped up and allowed Rarity to pet her, and she even began to purr. Rarity refilled their glasses.
“It is nice and peaceful here. I forget how much noise happens at home with three other ponies in the house,” Applejack remarked.
“I like the quiet. You know Sweetie Belle comes over for the night sometimes. I'm always a bit antsy for a day or so after she leaves. It takes some time to get back into the normal feel of things. Most of the time I read at night, after my work is done. Research, you know,” she laughed softly. “But sometimes instead of the fashion study, I read novels. Or I work on jewel shaping.”
“I imagine it must be nice to have the time to work on that. I know when those three fillies get together at our house, it's not the same for almost a week. Granny Smith's probably the only pony who sleeps the night they're there, on account of her hearing.
“I figured that since you live here in town you'd be going out with a stallion or be in a social club or something,” Applejack said.
Rarity replied, “No, no clubs. I tried a few, but they just were not for me. As for stallions, well, there are a few here in town who I dated, but they were not my type.”
They both finished their glasses, and Rarity shook the empty bottle.
“No more. How sad,” Rarity said, and put the empty glasses on the tray.
“Well, shoot. It's way past dark. I should get to heading home,” Applejack said and shakily stood up from the couch.
Rarity waved a hoof at Applejack. “Nonsense. It is dark, and almost cold, and you are intoxicated. You will stay here tonight, in my extra bedroom. We will have a nice breakfast in the morning, and then you can go home.”
“Aww, Rarity, I'm fine. It's a nice night. You don't have to worry about me,” Applejack resisted.
“I won't hear of it. It is no imposition, if that is what worries you.”
“Well, ok,” she relented.
“Follow me.” She led Applejack to the stairs, but ducked into the kitchen to get a glass and fill a pitcher with water. She brought these back to the stairs. “This way.”
They reached the extra room and Rarity turned on the light. “Here's the bed. I'll put the pitcher over here, in case you want some water. You know where the mare's room is. If you need anything, I will be right next door.”
Rarity walked closer to Applejack and hugged her. “Thank you for this afternoon, for dinner, and for looking at my designs.”
Applejack nuzzled against Rarity, and replied, “Rarity, it's been a lot of fun today. I'm glad you invited me. You really are a good friend. Have a good night.”
Rarity sniffled a bit and pulled away. “Sleep well, Applejack.” She shut the door as she left and climbed into her own bed soon after.
********
Rarity laid in bed and wished the ceiling would stop spinning. It didn't matter if her eyes were opened or closed; the result was the same. She pushed out a freshly-polished blue hoof in a vain attempt to slow the world.
Applejack probably has no trouble stopping things with her legs. She idly pictured the apple bucker's well-defined hindquarters in her mind's eye. They are quite strong, and very shapely. Rarity's eyes snapped open and a hoof went to her mouth. Really, Rarity. That's wholly inappropriate. She is my friend, and I prefer stallions, anyway.
She stared at the ceiling for a while longer, unable to go to sleep. It really would be nice to have a stallion in here tonight. Spending all day in the company of another pony makes nights all the more lonely. Finally, she could take the spinning no more. “I'll just go downstairs and have another drink or two.”
She rolled out of the bed and steadied herself before quietly walking towards the bedroom door. Her magic fumbled a bit before she was able to open the door, and then she stepped into the hallway. Tiphoofing down the stairs seemed to take several minutes, but she did not want to wake her sleeping friend. She finally reached the first floor and wobbled her way into the kitchen. The rack of bottles only delayed her for a second; her choice was easy to make. The corkscrew proved slightly less challenging than the doorknob had, and she took her glass and the bottle into the foyer.
She sat on a bench and looked out across the darkened room, noticing how the dim moonlight illuminated the quiet party of ponyquins, then took a long gulp from her glass. It really does seem lonely in here sometimes. Pinkie Pie is right. If I keep up like this I will become a crazy cat lady. She looked at the arrangement of wooden models in her shop. Most of them wore a dress or suit coat as either a display or an ongoing refinement of a commission. Rarity sighed and took another gulp. So well dressed. Ready to go out in the world and make a splash. Will you attract the eye of a lover? Will your fine lines be the last piece of the puzzle for two ponies to commit to a dream?
Her eyes rested on a nearby ponyquin, and she saw light reflected off the high gloss of the varnished surface. This one, like most real ponies, wore no clothes. Rarity giggled softly and whispered, “Now you're somepony I could talk to.” She got off the bench and walked closer to the ponyquin. It fell under her critical eyes as she appraised its suitability. The wine bottle floated closer and refilled the glass as she gazed at the fine lines of the model pony. “Strong flanks, proud neck, fine cheekbones,” she paused to take another sip of wine. “Nicely figured grain. I do love maple. Come over here.”
The ponyquin was absorbed in her shimmering magic, and the two of them moved back to the bench. Rarity set her partner next to her, facing towards the same wall she was. An observer might think they were two friends looking at a painting at an exhibit.
“You are missing something, though,” Rarity said to her midnight friend. “Ah-ha! I know just the thing. I'll be right back.” She patted the pony on the flank and ran to the back room, wine glass in tow. There was a minor clatter in the back before Rarity returned with a small cylinder enveloped in her magic. “Here we go, darling. I think it will be just your color. And mine, too!” Red lipstick extended from the tube, and Rarity applied a coat to the ponyquin's lips, then added a similar coat to her own. “Perfect,” she approved.
“Now, where were we?” she whispered. “Oh, my. I don't even know your name.” She paused for another swig of wine. “Apple. That's a good name for a pony. You are as hard as the members of their family.”
Apple Ponyquin merely stared off into the distance, stoic as ever. Rarity rubbed a hoof over Apple's withers.
“So hard, yet when one gets to know you, you are quite nice.”
She took another drink of wine and refilled her glass.
“Apple, what would you say if you could speak? If I asked you to stay here and be my companion, would you agree? It would be nice to have a compatriot such as yourself to be with. Somepony to lean against, and somepony to support.”
She absentmindedly removed Applejack's hat from a shelf near the door and placed it on Apple's head. It slid back a bit, no doubt because of the lack of hair on the ponyquin's head.
“That suits you quite nicely.” Rarity slid the ponyquin closer and looked in its polished, gleaming, sightless eyes. “You are a beautiful example of ponykind.” She kissed Apple gently on the lips, briefly, and broke away with a nervous laugh. “Rarity! Whatever are you doing?” She took another sip of wine and did not speak for several breaths.
“I am sorry, Apple. A lady should not be so forward. I was overcome by your silent beauty,” she apologized. “What's that? Oh, no, darling. It is not your fault at all. You cannot help but to be yourself.” She tittered, and brought the glass to a hoof to swirl it. “R-really? Oh, but what can come...no!” Rarity sharply turned her head to look at Apple. “You cannot mean that.” Whether it was the wine or the pleasant conversation, Rarity felt a stirring within her. It was under unusual circumstances, but not an unwelcome feeling.
“Apple,” she said, and kissed the ponyquin on the cheek. “Apple, are you sure?” she whispered into the wooden ear before dusting a trail of feathery kisses along the pony's jaw. “It's just that I have never-” a shiny blonde hoof pressed itself against Rarity's lips. She responded with a kiss against the cold surface, and a caress of Apple's face before stroking her hoof down its neck and resting it against the chest. Rarity's other hoof brushed down her own warm chest, along her hair-covered belly, between her increasingly erect nipples, and rubbed between her legs.
“Ohh, yes, yes, you are right,” she said, and hugged the ponyquin closer to her. “This is what should be. But we will have to be very quiet tonight.” Her hugging caused Applejack's hat to fall off the pony. “Oh, I am sorry. I know you love your hat. I think I know a better way.” Rarity drank again from her magic controlled glass, then got off the bench to pick up the hat with her mouth.
She momentarily floated the hat in her magic and said, “Apple, maybe it would be better down here.” Rarity replaced the hat in her mouth and gave one of her best damsel in distress faces at Apple while waving an inviting leg at the thick wool carpet on the floor. In a field of shimmering blue, Apple stood up off the bench and laid down next to Rarity on the carpet.
Rarity draped the hat back on the ponyquin's head and pulled back to take a look at her. “Yes, that is much better.” A maple hind leg worked itself between Rarity's legs and rested against her teats. It was cold at first, but warmed quickly in contact with the living pony's body.
“Oh,” she said in momentary surprise. “Well, that is nice.” She kissed more aggressively against the pony's form, and grinded her hips against the increasingly warm varnish.
Apple's hard wooden face thwarted some of Rarity's efforts at kissing, but she made do with what she had by licking against the mouth and down the chin. “I do wish your mouth was better formed. You have such full lips, but no tongue to share.”
The sensation of her bare teats dragging against the varnished skin of the pony silenced further complaints, and Rarity was lost for a time in thrusting her vulva against Apple's hocks.
“App..llle...” She nuzzled against her ponyquin friend and resumed rubbing her wet slit with a hoof. “Oh, why didn't you tell me before?” Her hoof was now covered in her own juices. She could feel her engorged clit peeking from within her folds, and massaged vigorously against it and her inner lips.
She licked Apple from an ear to the edge of her hat, then kissed her on the nose. Rarity drove her mouth down Apple's face, down her neck, kissed along her chest and abdomen, and finally ended between the lifeless pony's legs, licking at the wetness she found there.
“Oh, oh, Apple, you taste so good.” She licked from thigh to thigh, savoring the mare juices she found on the pony's skin. She felt herself approaching the cliff, that point she would cross and seemingly fall without end, and with a knowing hoof she pushed herself over. Her hips contracted several times, and she bit against the strong wood of Apple's legs as she came. “Apple...oh, yes, oh Apple.” She had barely landed on a soft cloud before speaking again.
“More? Oh, Apple, you are insatiable.” Rarity blazed her way back up to kiss Apple on the mouth again, and showered her face with pecks of desire. She was grinding strongly against Apple's non-sex now, their hot wet parts pressed together.
“What?” Rarity sounded unsure. “Well, I've never tried, but if you think so.” The empty wine bottle levitated and moved towards Rarity's sopping tunnel. She bit her lip as the cold glass pressed against her. The rim gradually penetrated, and she pushed back against it. “Unnh...” She pushed the bottle deeper inside, and when it reached the end of the neck she brought it back to the entrance of her tunnel and teased her love bud with the edge of the bottle's opening.
Rarity completely mounted Apple, fucking her dolphin style, grinding ferociously against the smooth area between Apple's legs. She incorporated the bottle in her rhythms, plunging it into herself in time with her thrusting. She bit her bottom lip in an attempt to quiet her increasing moans of pleasure. The flared rim of the wine bottle was not unlike that of a stallion's member, and it brushed against a particularly pleasurable spot with each thrust.
Rarity was again approaching her sexual edge, and she practically leaped over this time. Muscles clenched, and she propped herself up on her forelegs to look in Apple's blonde, unseeing, lipstick-smeared face. She was falling again, a most joyous feeling of being without weight. Falling, but not scared. The muscles within her canal throbbed and pulsed, wanting to pull the bottle further inside as it continued its penetration. Something within her released as she came, and she felt a stream of liquid pour down her body, soaking her teats and running down her inner thighs. Every hair seemed to stand on end as she finished, and she snuggled up to the full length of Apple Ponyquin with a girlish-sounding giggle. The bottle was finally freed with a wet pop before it returned to the spot next to the glass.
“That was magnificent,” she whispered into Apple's solid ear. “You have been a most wonderful partner, my dear.” Rarity looked up at the ceiling of her boutique and noticed that the world was no longer spinning. She brushed the pony's chest with a foreleg. “I am afraid I must say good night. It would not be good to fall asleep here. What would ponies say? This must be our secret, Apple.”
Rarity stood up and straightened her mane, then picked up the glass and bottle and walked back into the kitchen. She returned with a damp cloth, and wiped the ponyquin before returning it to its home stand with the others. The hat fell off again, but Rarity replaced it and made sure to balance it so it would not move. She blotted at a spot on the carpet with the rag before tossing it in the laundry room on her way back to the stairs. Her steps were more sure going back to her room than they had been coming down. She paused outside her guest room and listened. There was no sound from within; she could only assume Applejack was still sleeping.
Rarity straightened her sheets and delicately shimmied her way beneath the covers before pulling her sleep mask over her eyes. She quickly dozed off to a sleep with unremembered dreams.
********
The smell of brewing coffee and fried apples with cinnamon wafted under Rarity's door and into her nose. A light scraping of pans sounded from the kitchen below. She sat up gingerly and pulled up her mask just enough to see. Full vision seemed too much to ask of her tired eyes and throbbing brain, but she could not leave her guest alone in the kitchen. She admired her hoof color again as she set all hooves on the floor. “It really does look nice.” The doorknob offered little resistance to her magic this morning, and she brushed her teeth and mane before heading downstairs.
“Good morning, sugarcube. I hope you're feeling OK,” Applejack greeted her as she dragged into the kitchen. “I'm just about done making breakfast. Have a seat and I'll get you set up.”
Rarity obligingly sat at the table and watched Applejack finish her preparations. “Good morning to you. Applejack, I feel I have been a terrible host. I should be the one making breakfast for you.”
“Shoot, it ain't nothing. I woke up a bit earlier, and I knew that if you were feeling anywhere near as bad as I was, you'd appreciate a little breakfast. Anyway, I gotta be getting back home pretty soon. Luna knows what Grannie's gonna say about me being late. And Big Mac'll likely have a mean stare going on.” Applejack sat two plates on the table.
Rarity's nose had not been deceived: fried apples, as well as buttered toast and a fried egg, sunny side up. She used her magic to pour a cup of coffee for herself and freshen Applejack's cup.
“You should come over more often, Applejack,” Rarity said after swallowing a bite of egg and toast.
“I did have a good time yesterday and last night. I love the farm, but it's nice to get away for a little bit.”
Applejack ate her breakfast quickly and gulped the last of her coffee. She picked up the plate and cup and set them in the sink.
“I hate to eat and canter, but I really do need to get home. We'll have to do this again sometime, Rarity. It doesn't have to be after an argument, either.”
“Right, as always,” Rarity replied. They hugged again before Applejack made her way to the front door.
“I thought I put my hat over...oh, there it is, silly me.” Applejack retrieved her hat from an uncovered ponyquin and opened the door. She tossed it onto her head and said, “Have a good day, Rarity.”
The door shut with a clink, and Rarity was alone again.
