The Next Best Thing

by wingbeats

Rating: teen
Tags: Main 6, Applejack, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Spike, Rainbow Dash, Comedy, Other, Romance
Length: 7456

Rainbow Dash and Applejack can't seem to confess their feelings for each other. So, what happens when they attempt to get the next best thing?

The arrival of Ponyville's Annual Hearts and Hooves Day is fast approaching. Every pony seems to have a date-except two. As Rainbow Dash and Applejack struggle with their feelings, they see another opportunity arise. If you can't have the pony you really want, why not go for the next best thing?

*Takes place after Season 4 of MLP: FIM*

Published 2014-11-09 08:50:06 UTC
Last updated 2014-11-09 08:50:06 UTC

Chapter 1

It was a chilly day in Ponyville, where the streets were nothing but busy. Each and every pony was doing their part to contribute to the special event taking place three nights later, hosted by Ponyville's most famous Apple farmer and Element of Honesty. Princess Cadence was sure to be dropping by as well.

After all, who wouldn't miss Ponyville's Annual Hearts and Hooves Day Hoedown.

It was definitely the talk of the town. The Apple Family promised that it would be a night no pony would ever forget. All were welcome, no matter if you were a pegasi, earth pony, unicorn or griffon. The attire was semi-formal (upon Rarity's request, of course). Food was no problem, as the Cakes and the Apple Family were supplying. Music would be provided by Fiddlesticks and DJ Pon-3 (a must-have, according to Rainbow Dash). It was definitely going to be a special night for all ponies with their dates.

The word 'date' brought unease to a certain party planner, as Rarity brought it up at the castle.

"Who are you going to the Hoedown with, my dear? Oh, you simply must have a date. You are the master of ceremonies after all!" Rarity chimed.

"Ermmm...is every pony goin' with some pony?" inquired Applejack, hoping one of them had no date so she wouldn't be 'singled out', so to speak.

"I'm going with Flash Sentry." Twilight squealed. She blushed faintly and tried to contain herself, as she received knowing looks from all of her friends.

"Well I, for one, am going with Spikey-Wikey." said Rarity. Twilight rolled her eyes as Rarity continued. "He was so persistent in his asking that I finally said why not."

"Oooh Oooh pick me!" Pinkie said enthusiastically, while holding her hoof up like a filly would in elementary school. Applejack nodded towards her, signaling she had the floor.

"I'm going with Cheese Sandwich! He heard that it was gonna be the best party EVER and if you're a party pony, you definitely wouldn't miss the most Spectacular Super-Duper Party in all of Equestria! Even if it is all lovey dovey!" If Pinkie pie blushed at her last statement, no pony could tell.

"I'm going with Bulk Biceps." Fluttershy declared quietly, blushing as well.

"YOU'RE GOING WITH BULK BICEPS?" Rainbow Dash asked, as if she if didn't approve.

"Oh yes" Fluttershy said, hurt. "Ummm...is there a problem?"

"Umm no..there's nothing wrong with him. Its just...we always hang out together on Hearts and Hooves day. I hated that boring butterfly migration you made me go to but I still had SOMETHING to do!" Rainbow pouted, while crossing her hooves. She sat on her throne uncomfortably.

"Oh..well Bulk Biceps asked me to go with him to the hoedown. He was so sweet about it that I couldn't say no. Sorry Dashie." Fluttershy smiled.

"It's ok Fluttershy. You can go. I'll just find some thing better to do."

"You mean YOU'RE NOT going to attend the hoedown?" Rarity squawked. Every one of her friends were equally shocked. After all, she did suggest the entertainment for the event.

"No! And it's not because I don't have a date to go with." Rainbow lied, knowing that's exactly why she wasn't going, but she had a reputation to protect. "All that lovey-dovey stuff is just so mushy and I, the totally awesome Rainbow Dash, am NOT mushy."

This brought relief to Applejack to know she wasn't alone but Rarity wouldn't let it go easily.

"Oh don't be ridiculous" Rarity waved off. "You simply must go! We're all attending. And you must go with some pony."

"Well..why does every pony need a date? Why can't two ponies just meet at the hoedown and have a good time?"

"So are ya sayin' ya don't have a date?" Applejack said, with her quick wit and knowing smirk. All eyes were on Rainbow Dash.

Oops! "Umm no..I mean yes..I mean... I have a date!" Rainbow shouted frantically. I'll get you back for that one AJ!

"Oh Dashie! That's so exciting! You have a special somepony? Who is it? WHO IS IT?!" exclaimed Pinkie Pie.
"Yes darling. Who is that special somepony enough to capture the heart of the..ahem.. "awesome" Rainbow Dash?" Rarity lightly interrogated, with a keen eye.

"Well its...Uhh.. it's a secret!" Rainbow nodded. "We..uhh..don't wanna make it official yet! In fact, I'm going to see him..um..her.. right now!"

Rainbow Dash zoomed out of the castle faster than one could say "zap apple". Only one thought came to her mind. She needed to find a date. Fast.

Unknowing to Rainbow, a certain stetson-wearing pony's heart broke at the pegasus' last statement.

"Are you ok Applejack?" Rarity asked, with a concerned look.

"Ah'm fine Rarity. Just fine...." Applejack replied. The pressure from finding a date, the work from the event and the revelation from the cyan pegasus was just a bit too much.

Chapter 2

"Ugh! Stupid, stupid, stupid!" Rainbow Dash said to herself, while flying through the air.

Truthfully, she was planning to go to the Annual Hearts and Hooves Day Hoedown with a particular orange mare, with three apples as her cutie mark (whom she had a teeny weeny crush on), as her date. However she couldn't seem to bring herself to ask, so she thought she'd go with Fluttershy since Fluttershy had never been asked out. But life was cruel this year.

Rainbow had planned on asking Applejack after the meeting, but now that she had lied, saying she was taking some pony else, she had to keep her word.

That's the problem with lies. Tell one and you need to support it to prove you weren't lying, even if you were. It totally messes up your original plan.

She couldn't think of any pony who she could ask to accompany her. Big Mac? No, he's going with Cheerilee. Derpy? Uh no. Dumb-Bell? Uhh HAY NO!

Rainbow flew above Sugarcube Corner. As if on cue, her stomach started grumbling. Rainbow's flight pattern changed its direction as she flew to the entrance of Sugarcube corner. She opened the door and was shocked.

There, in front of her, stood an orange pony with a blonde mane.

How did Applejack get here so quickly? Rainbow thought. Hey, maybe I should ask her out now!

"Hey Applejack" Rainbow called out.

"Hmmm..?" the orange mare turned around. Rainbow instantly knew it wasn't Applejack but they had strikingly similar looks. The mare was orange and had a blonde mane, which resembled Rainbow's bangs, although not as scruffy. Her tail had a darker layer of orange underneath but it still was mostly blonde. The only difference was her navy blue eyes and her cutie mark was a...

"Howdy" said the Applejack-look-alike. Even her accent was the same.

"You're..uh..how did..who are..?" Rainbow was too confused, as if her mind was were playing tricks on her. Maybe she's a Changeling!

"It's alright, Rainbow Dash. Ponies confuse me n' Applejack all the time. Ma name is Apple Cobbler. A pleasure makin' yer acquaintance." She shook a stunned cyan mare's hoof.

"How did you know my-"

"Ah live here in Ponyville. Ah just live on the edge of town with ma sister, Apple Fritter. Ah don't come inta town very often. Only fer the Apple Family reunions of course. Or if ah wanna get a tan. We're cousins of Applejack. Ah know ya 'cause yer one of Applejack's best friends and one of the Elements of Harmony. Uhhh Loyalty right?"

"Uhhh..yea?". Rainbow replied, while tilting her head.

This was weird. Really weird. Although she couldn't get over the 'weirdness' of the whole situation, Rainbow felt at ease with this mare. She decided to give it a chance.

"Sorry, I just didn't see you here before. And you're right, you do look A LOT like Apple-"

Rainbow's mind clicked, as a smile started to form. If she couldn't ask Applejack to be her date, why not get the next best thing?

"Hey Apple Cobbler?" Rainbow started, rubbing her hoof on the back of her head. "You wouldn't happen to be going with any pony to the Annual Hearts and Hooves Day Hoedown, would you?"

Apple Cobbler stifled a laugh. "You sure ya ain't movin' too fast there, Sugarcane? Ah mean, ain't it weird ta ask a gal out that ya just met?"

"Well maybe." Rainbow Dash admitted, still rubbing her hoof behind her head. "But I have no date and if you're interested."

"Well...Ah did jes' get out of a relationship with some pony..." Apple Cobbler started, but seeing Rainbow's adorable pleading eyes convinced her otherwise. "Buuut Ah guess Ah could give it a shot. Ah mean it's one date right?"

"Woohooo!" Rainbow swooped up Apple Cobbler in the air in a tight hug, while Apple Cobbler blushed lightly.

"Don't worry about a thing!" Rainbow assured her, as she landed both of them to the ground. "The pony who let you go is sure to be jealous now that I'm your date. I'm totally awesome, which means, you're automatically awesome too!"

"Well aren't ya a sweet talker". Apple Cobbler rolled her eyes at the prideful pegasus. She wasn't planning on going to the hoedown, but this might have been the next step her sister was telling her to go for.

"Hey, let's celebrate! I wanna hang out with you more. You know, to get to know each other better." Rainbow Dash said happily. "Mrs. Cake?...Uhh..Mrs. Cake?" Rainbow said, looking over the counter.

"Mrs. Cake is busy baking fer the Hoedown. Ah've been helping them with ma special apple cobbler. Would y'all like ta try some?" Apple Cobbler asked.

"Oh boy, would I!" Rainbow said, licking her lips hungrily. With that said, the two were well-acquainted within the next few hours. They talked about Rainbow's dream of becoming a Wonderbolt, Apple Cobbler's dream of opening up her own dessert shop and about the next hoofball season.

The two were unaware that there were two dark green eyes watching them.

Later that night, Rainbow jumped into her cloud bed, weary from the events of the day. But instead of sleeping, she just lay there, thinking. Why was asking Apple Cobbler out easier than asking Applejack? Is it because it's not really Applejack I'm asking out? I mean sure Apple Cobbler is pretty but is she only pretty because Applejack is pretty? Wait...did I just think Applejack, my best friend, is pretty? No! Wait, yes! Ugh..too much thinking!

Rainbow Dash closed her eyes and took long, deep breaths.

I sure hope Applejack isn't angry.

Rainbow tossed and turned in her bed, before finally lying back down in the same position. She sighed slowly, with only one thought in her head.

I wish I could go with Applejack instead....

Chapter 3

The next day was just as busy as the last, in Ponyville. Every pony was working to put the finishing touches to everything, especially the barn.

So when Rainbow Dash called a short meeting with her friends, it halted all their activities since they were grateful for the distraction. They were also going to find out who Rainbow's date was.

"Ohhh I wonder who her date is! This is super exciting! I mean can you believe it! Rainbow Dash! With a special some pony!" Pinkie pie said, while inhaling a helium balloon, causing her voice to be higher than usual.

"Oh, I am just dying to know too! As my gossip sources tell me, apparently, she was seen talking to some pony at Sugarcube corner. It seemed like they were sharing one of the Cake's delicacies." Rarity said, spreading the news.

However, Applejack didn't take the news very well. "M-Maybe they were just talkin' bout somethin' random..like ah don't know..weather?"

"Oh please!" Rarity denied. "It's SOO obvious! It's most definitely her date."

"Well, then" Twilight finally spoke up. "We're all really happy for her and whoever she's bringing as her date, let's make whoever it is feel welcome." The four friends and baby dragon nodded in agreement.

Just then, a rainbow-maned mare burst through the castle door, surprising every pony. She did an aerial infinity maneuver to impress her friends. Rainbow always knew how to make a grand entrance.

"Hey every pony! How's it hangin'?"

Pinkie Pie grabbed Rainbow Dash in a tight hug as soon as Rainbow finished her greeting.

"WHO IS IT!?" Pinkie exclaimed "Is it Derpy? Caramel? Big Mac? Oh yea, Big Mac is going with Cheerilee! Thunderlane?"

Rarity put a hoof on Pinkie's shoulder. "Now darling, put her down. She needs to breathe so she can tell us."

As soon as Pinkie let Rainbow Dash go, Rarity grabbed Rainbow Dash in the same fashion.

"WHO IS IT?! Come on, Rainbow Dash dear, please tell me or I'll just faint!" Rarity definitely had her faint chair ready.

"Is that a fact? Ok then!" Rainbow responded and paused, jokingly waiting for Rarity to faint. This elicited a laugh from all the observers.

"Ugh! How rude!" Rarity said, sitting back on her throne.

"Seriously Rainbow, who is it?" Twilight asked.

"Well, she's right here. Hey date, come on out!" Rainbow said, preserving her date's identity for a few seconds longer.

There standing at the doorway was...

"Apple Cobbler?" Applejack spoke as soon as she saw her cousin.

"Hi y'all!" Apple Cobbler greeted every pony.

However, no one spoke. Five mouths dropped, their eyes looking from Applejack to Apple Cobbler and back to Applejack.

"Well whatcha guys think? Pretty awesome huh?" Rainbow said.

"Sweet Celestia!" Rarity gasped, breaking the silence. Then, in a wink of an eye, she grinned the biggest grin of her life. She looked at Fluttershy, Spike, Twilight and Pinkie Pie. They all wore similar grins.

"Cuz'! What are y'all doin' here?" Applejack asked, still surprised at the presence of her cousin. She then got off her throne and hugged her anyways. She was still family, after all.

"Well Sugarcane, Ah'm Rainbow Dash's date to that hoedown y'all have been preparin' for. How's that goin' for ya cuz'? I'd be more than happy ta help if y'all still have more work ta do!".

"Uhh no..no thanks cuz'. Ah'm sure Ah can handle it". Applejack politely declined. All of a sudden, she saw Rainbow drape her wing over Apple Cobbler's flank.

This both angered and saddened Applejack. Apple Cobbler was Rainbow's date. Rainbow was supposed to be HER date. She couldn't take it anymore so she figured she'd go do the one thing that will take her mind off of the situation. Work.

"Ah gotta go every pony. Ah still have lots ta do. See ya." Applejack ran off before anyone could see her tears. Her anger made an appearance as she slammed the castle doors behind her.

"Geez, what's her problem?" said Rainbow Dash unsympathetically. Fluttershy shot Rainbow Dash a look of disapproval at her remark.

"Well, it was nice meetin' y'all!" Apple Cobbler said, retreating. "But Ah'm afraid Ah do have ta leave now. Ah gotta make more apple cobbler since a whole lotta them seem to go missing."

Pinkie pie glanced around nervously, with sweat dripping down her forehead. She knew who the culprit was.

"See ya Rainbow." Apple Cobbler did a small curtsy before departing. Rainbow waved back at her. "Later AC!"

"Bye. It was pleasure meeting you!" Twilight waved. The group chorused a chant of "goodbyes" accompanied with slow waves.

As soon as she left, Rainbow repeated her earlier question. "So whatcha guys think?"

An uproar of laughter came from the group, making the pegasus slightly upset.

"Hey! What's so funny?" Rainbow questioned.

"Oh come on Rainbow Dash. We all know what you're doing. Just drop the act, will you?" Twilight said, still smiling.

"What act?" Rainbow Dash asked innocently, raising an eyebrow.

It was Rarity's turn. "Come on, Rainbow Dash. Doesn't she look A LOT like some pony you know? Hmmmm?"

Rainbow didn't like what Rarity was implying. "I don't follow."

"She looks a lot like Applejack!" Pinkie bursted out brightly.

"She does NOT!" Rainbow Dash said, hiding what little pride she had left. "I don't know what you're talking about!"

"Oh come on Rainbow Dash. They look strikingly similar! Wouldn't you agree Fluttershy?" Rarity asked. Fluttershy never liked the attention turned to her so she quickly nodded in agreement and sank under her hooves.

"Do not! Do not! Hmmpf" Rainbow Dash closed her eyes and crossed her front hooves.

"Alright Rainbow Dash!" said Rarity, with a tone tinged with a challenge. Rainbow loved challenges.

"Give me three differences between Applejack and Apple Cobbler, based solely on appearance. We will drop everything if you do. Agreed?"

"Easy! One, their eyes are a different colour. Two, their cutie marks are different! And three.....uhhhh...three.." Rainbow tried looking frantically around her brain for a third difference. "She...She doesn't wear a cowpony hat! Aw yea, that's three!"

"Hey that doesn't count!" Pinkie pie retorted. "I would've said the layer or orange in her tail!"

"Uh yeah! What Pinkie pie said!" Rainbow quickly repeated.

"Nope. Pinkie gave you that one! And having an accessory doesn't really count, as we could easily put a Stetson on Apple Cobbler and they would look just the same." Twilight countered.

"Oh look who's the egghead in the room. No one likes a know-it-all Twi!" Rainbow shot back. She was running out of steam.

"Calm down, Rainbow Dash." Twilight said, in a more softer tone. "Apple Cobbler seems like a wonderful mare and we're all really happy for you. There's no problem with you taking her."

"Yes darling. We definitely think so. It's just....she looks awfully similar to Applejack and we were just wondering if there was any underlying meaning to all of this. Hmmm?" Rarity summed up what was on every pony's mind.

The group looked up at Rainbow Dash once more, waiting for an answer.

"Well there isn't! Applejack is just a friend. Apple Cobbler is my date. If they look similar, that doesn't change anything!" Rainbow Dash had said her final thoughts.

"Ha! So you agree that they do look similar" Spike pointed out. Every pony almost forgot he was in the room.

"Ugh! I'm outta here." Rainbow Dash said, as she sped off through the window, leaving a rainbow in her wake.

Silence was present, yet again, amongst the remaining friends.

"They like each other, don't they?" Rarity finally said.

"Mhmmm" every pony in the castle hummed in unison.

"Well then, I, for one, like to keep things rather interesting. Would any pony care to take part in a little, oh I don't know, bet of some sort?" Rarity said, with a smirk plastered on her face

"What kind of bet?" Twilight asked. The three ponies and the baby dragon were definitely intrigued.

"Well, how about we place a bet on whether Applejack or Rainbow Dash will reveal their innermost feelings, to the other, first. Who's in?" Rarity dared.

"I don't feel comfortable in getting involved in other pony's love life, especially my friends. I'm out." Twilight dismissed herself.

"Oh come on Twilight. Live a little!" Spike slightly growled. "I'm on team Rainbow Dash! I bet Applejack will confess first."

"No way! Rainbow Dash will totally spill the beans first. And by beans, I don't mean jelly beans! By the way, do any of you have jelly beans? Oh, now I have a craving for-"

"What she means to say is she believes Rainbow Dash will confess first. I couldn't agree with Pinkie even more. I mean, let's face it, when it comes to her feelings, Rainbow Dash is anything but vague. You could practically read her like a book."

"That's where your wrong Rarity" Fluttershy said quietly, but her words spoke volumes. "I've known Rainbow Dash since flight camp. She may be obvious with her feelings, but she can keep secrets. No pony knew she was interested in Applejack before she brought her date." The argument Fluttershy brought to the table was compelling. "Also, you've seen how Applejack is when she's stressed. And right now, she does have a lot on her plate, with the hoedown being a short time away. Don't forget she's the Element of Honesty. When pressured, she tells the truth, even if it's as personal as her feelings."

"Sounds like you've had a long time to think about this. And now it's obvious your definitely for team Rainbow Dash." Rarity spoke again. "But you seem to have forgotten the time we went looking for her at Dodge Junction. She did do an awful bit of hiding the truth and it was only after Rainbow had tackled her, was she able to admit it. You all know how she's as stubborn as a mule. Ahem no offense."

"None taken" said a mule, who randomly appeared at her side.

"Aaaand she broke her Pinkie Promise! Well kind of." Pinkie interrupted, as she let the memory come to her.

"Hmm...I forgot I need to get Rainbow Dash back for that. But as I was saying, knowing Applejack since we were fillies, she's much more reserved than one might think. She pours everything into her work, instead of revealing her feelings. On the other hand, Rainbow Dash may be good at keeping secrets but she is brutally honest. Why, she critiques my dresses without any filter to her words." Rarity did put up a strong rebuttal.

"Well, that settles it." Spike said, pounding a fist into his claw. "You and Pinkie Pie think Rainbow Dash will confess first, while Fluttershy and I think Applejack will be first. The bet is on!"

"Hang on." Twilight interjected. "What are your wagers? A bet has some sort of wagers, no?" Twilight flipped pages in the book, Poker Muzzle: Bets and Gambling every pony should know.

"Ohhh Ohh. If I win, I want a whole bucket of orange and blue jelly beans!" said the exhilarated Pinkie Pie, licking her lips in excitement.

"Why only orange and blu-wait, nevermind." Spike said. Never question Pinkie pie's randomness. It'll get you nowhere. "What about you Rarity? What do you want if you win?"

"Well, I do need a model for my upcoming spring line. Would Fluttershy be available modeling twenty dresses for me?" Rarity's eyes beamed at the proposition.

"Oh yes. If you win that is." Fluttershy said, almost whispering. She then turned her attention to Pinkie Pie. "If we win...would you mind bringing forty carrot cupcakes to Angel's birthday next week. If you can of course."

"No problem!" Pinkie Pie cheered at the prospect throwing another party but not so enticed by baking forty carrot cupcakes. That was a lot of cupcakes. "What do you want if you win, Spike?"

"A kiss from Rarity!" was Spike's immediate response. "Right here!" Spike pointed to his purple lips.

"Uhhhh....." Rarity found herself lost in thought, as Fluttershy blushed for her.

Yes indeed, this would be an interesting bet.

Chapter 4

Applejack bucked a few more apple trees, immersing herself into her work. She couldn't let her emotions stand in the way of her preparations and she did whatever felt natural to blanket her thoughts.

Buck

Why did she go for Apple Cobbler? Why didn't she ask me? Am Ah not pretty enough? Well every pony did say Apple Cobbler was always prettier.

Buck

Is Rainbow trying to replace me? Am Ah not enough? Yea, that's it. Ah'm probably not awesome enough to be with Rainbow. She's probably out of my league anyways.

Buck

Ah should've asked her out when Ah got the chance. Why does it hurt so much? Ah'm Ah jealous? But why? She's jes' ma best friend right?

Buck

But if she were jes ma best friend, why do Ah want somethin....more? Why don't Ah want her ta be with Apple Cobbler? Apple Cobbler is family though n' they do seem happy.

Buck

Do ah lik-No! Ah don't like her that way....do Ah?

"Hey miss?" an unfamiliar voice rang in Applejack's ear. She turned to see who it was. Her eyes dilated at the sight.

There, standing before her was a cyan pegasus, but it wasn't a mare. It was a stallion. He had a scruffy white mane and a rainbow as a cutie mark. His eyes matched her own, but it was more of a dark turquoise colour than emerald. "Uhh..yes sir? What can Ah do fer-"

"You've missed that tree over there like five times. Are you ok? Do you need some help?" chirped the cyan stallion. His voice was filled with compassion, which relaxed Applejack instantly.

"It's ok sir. Ah appreciate the offer though." A gust of wind blew, making Applejack shiver. "Brrr certainly is cold out here."

"Here lemme get that for you. I'll be done in 15 seconds flat" said the unknown stallion. He shot up and kicked the clouds that were hovering over Sweet Apple Acres away. This cooled the air and got rid of the breeze that chilled Applejack's bones.

"What I tell you? 15 seconds flat! Trust me, I wouldn't leave a damsel in distress like you, hanging. That would be downright rude!"

"Ah ain't no damsel in distress!" Applejack had a thing for being an independent mare, needing no pony's help. This foreigner had the audacity to make her feel worthless through his words. She turned to leave.

"I'm sorry." The voice called after her.

"Huh..what did y'all jes say?" Applejack turned her head.

"I'm sorry. I really didn't mean anything by what I said. You looked cold and I really just wanted to help you out so.....you'd think I was cool...." confessed the stallion with his head down. Something about his humble confession made Applejack stick around longer.

"Now what made ya think Ah thought ya weren't cool?" Applejack said. This seemed to lighten up the stallion's mood as he flipped his scruffy, white mane up.

"I don't know. I want every pony to think I'm cool. I just thought, you know, if you thought I was cool, maybe it would be enough to impress you and get your mind off what ever that was bothering you. You did seem pretty out of it."

"Y'all saw that? Well shucks, Ah thought ah wasn't that easy ta read." Applejack said in a sheepish voice. "What's yer name Sugarcube?"

"Prism Glider" the cyan pegasus replied.

"Well Mr. Glider. It's nice ta meet ya. Ah'm Applejack and this here is part of Sweet Apple Acres." Applejack said, introducing herself to the pegasus.

"Oh I know who you are. You're one of the Elements of Harmony right? And I think I saw you in Cloudsdale once."

"Wait, how'd y'all know all that? Ah ain't seen ya 'round these parts before" Applejack asked, as one of her eyebrows raised slightly.

"Well, I'm from Cloudsdale but I come to Ponyville to visit my brother, Rainbow Swoop, and my sister, Rainbowshine. I also have a special some pony living here but we broke it off a few days ago." Prism Glider spoke glumly.

Before Applejack could offer some comforting words, the stallion went on. "I used to be in charge of the Rainbow factory up in Cloudsdale but I wanted to be closer to my family. So I moved here just a few weeks ago and just started working for the weather team. However, I haven't really been doing much since my captain seems to always be napping in the clouds somewhere, instead of busting them. She's a real handful sometimes, but she's a good captain. Pretty fast too. Always beats me by 5 seconds."

"Does yer captain's name happen ta be 'Rainbow Dash'?" Applejack asked, rolling her eyes.

"Yea how'd you figure?"

"Lucky guess." Applejack said, with a knowing smirk. "She's one of the Elements of Harmony as well. That's also why Ah went to Cloudsdale that one time. So ah could support her in the Best Flyer Competition! She won that shindig too n' Ah couldn't be more proud. But yea, Ah know her. Actually ya kinda remind me of her since y'all-"

Applejack's smiled widely at the next thought that came to mind. Although Prism Glider and Rainbow Dash were different in many ways, he could've easily pulled off being her twin brother. His coat was the same color, accompanied by his rainbow cutie mark.

But Applejack had one other idea in mind. If she couldn't ask Rainbow Dash to be her date, why not get the next best thing?

"Hey Mr. Glider?" Applejack suddenly asked.

"Just call me Prism. I'm not use to formalities so much." Prism smiled.

"Uhh ok. Prism..." Applejack was not use to addressing ponies other than her friends and family, by their nickname but since he asked nicely, she figured she would honor his request. She was going to ask him out. "There's this Hoedown tomorrow night n' Ah was wonderin' whether y'all would like ta go with me."

"Oh..umm.." Prism Glider was startled by the offer but decided he could use a night with some pony to get his mind off of his ex. "I guess it's ok. Sure I'll go with you. Kinda quick though."

"Sorry ah didn't have a date and Ah jes figured y'all would be interested since...." Applejack couldn't bring herself to say the next words, knowing it would bring back memories of his ex-marefriend. Or ex-coltfriend.

"It's ok. I'd be glad to escort you to the hoedown. You seem like a fine mare." Prism complimented. Applejack blushed to a small degree.

"Well let's head on in. It's a bit chilly and Ah would like ta git ta know ya a bit more. Ah think Granny Smith n' Apple Bloom are home so ah guess if ya want me ta introduce ya, Ah'd be more than happy ta. Also, would y'all like some some cider?

"You got CIDER?! Oh my gosh! Let's go!" Prism Glider said as he galloped with Applejack to the barn. For the next few hours, they talked about the weather's influence on agriculture, Prism Glider's dream of becoming captain of the weather team and Applejack's project on building a new barn. Although, one question seemed to be lingering in Applejack's mind.

"Hey, Prism? What were y'all doing hovering over at Sweet Apple Orchards?" Applejack asked.

"Oh sorry, your trees are really comfortable for napping. I usually snooze off in 'em. Sorry, I know it's trespassing and I'll stop if you want." Prism responded, with a flushed face.

"Oh don't y'all fret about nothin'. Just make sure ya pass the info ta yer boss!" Applejack winked. This sparked a hearty guffaw between the two.

Both ponies were having such a good time that they didn't notice the dark blue eyes glaring at them through the window.

Applejack lay in her apple-scented bed, exhausted with the day's work but grateful she was able to share it with Prism Glider.

Ah'm really glad he showed up here. Ah probably would've been thinkin' bout Rainbow if he hadn't....

Applejack closed her eyes and shifted under the covers.

Why can't Ah get that darn pegasus outta ma head? Sure she's loyal n' honest n' strong. Not the most modest pony in Equestria but she sure does make up fer it by always bein' there fer her friends. She's athletic n' fun n'... Ah shucks she's cute when she pouts....wait cute?

Applejack pounded her hoof into her head as if trying to get the thought out of mind. She stopped, after the spot on her head she was pounding hurt more than it did her any good.

Ah like her, don't Ah? Ah sound like ah'm a lil' filly with a crush... but ah'm afraid ta make the first move. What if it ruins our friendship? No! Ah can't let that happen. Might as well jes date Prism, even though it feels wrong....

She pressed her head deeper into her pillow, trying to sink the thoughts in her head. But one thought remained that she could not shake.

Ah sure do wish Ah could've taken Rainbow to the hoedown instead...

Chapter 6

Rainbow Dash sat in a corner, with the biggest scowl on her face. First off, she hated dressing up unless it was in a Wonderbolt uniform. Second, she hated Applejack's date. It didn't help that Rarity and Applejack were talking about him sooo loudly.

"Oh details darling. Tell me everything about him. Is he handsome? Charming? Funny?" Rarity grilled.

"He's sweet Rares. That's all ya need ta know." Applejack replied absentmindedly.

"Oh come on darling! I said details!" Rarity persisted.

"Oh are you talking about Prism Glider! Oh oh he looks a lot like Rainbow Dash, except if she were a stallion. They're practically twins! Like pound cake and pumpkin cake but even more similar!" Pinkie Pie said, with more unappreciated enthusiasm, according to Rainbow Dash.

"Is this true darling?" questioned Rarity turned towards Applejack.

"Well erm...yes." They didn't call Applejack the Element of Honesty for nothing. "But they both have their differences too n' ah appreciate them just as much." Applejack said confidently.

Rarity glanced at Rainbow Dash and saw the look on her face. Then she whispered to Applejack, "If you don't mind my asking...are you sure you just didn't ask this Prism Glider to the hoedown because you have a certain feelings for another pony?"

Knowing Applejack for a long time, Rarity analyzed Applejack's face and she knew she was spot on. Applejack, however, tried to hide her feelings. "No!...Ah mean yes! It's jes'...erm..lemme try on another dress".

Applejack quickly grabbed a dress and went into one of Rarity's multiple fitting rooms.

It was two hours before one of the biggest events in Ponyville and the group of friends looked spectacular. Well, all but one.

"Applejack! Let's go!" Rainbow Dash pounded her hoof on the fitting room door. "You've been in there for hours! We're gonna be-"

The fitting room door opened and the sight it revealed brought out deafening, filly-like squeals from the other mares. Rainbow Dash could not believe her eyes.

Applejack looked amazing. Her mane and her tail were tied in perfect braids. Her shiny green head band accentuated her emerald eyes, giving them a tantalizing effect. Her orange coat glimmered as if she was a crystal pony. But the one thing that caught everyone's eyes was her dress. Her gown matched the red delicious apple color, with sequins on the straps that glistened in the light. If no one could see Applejack's curves before, they weren't hidden any longer. The gown flowed easily to the ground, in a way that brought out her figure. Furthermore, she had on what looked like silky white boots over her front hooves.

"Oh my gosh! Applejack! You look absolutely FANTABULOUS!" Pinkie pie screamed.

"My my, Applejack. You certainly do clean up really well. Perhaps you could do a bit of modeling for me?" Rarity beamed.

"You look absolutely beautiful Applejack. The dress looks really-" Twilight's words were interrupted by a 'POOF' sound. Every pony turned their heads to find Rainbow Dash hiding behind Fluttershy, with her blue wings flared straight out. Rarity, Pinkie pie and Twilight stifled a giggle.

"How do ya think Ah look Rainbow?" Applejack asked, knowing that Rainbow's opinion meant more to her than any pony's.

"You look...Wow. I mean just...Wow!" Rainbow Dash said, with lack of a better description.

"Aww shucks, thanks Sugarcube." Applejack blushed. The look Rainbow gave her confirmation that she had looked really good.

She twirled in front of Rainbow Dash, which made Rainbow gulp. Stop it AJ! I don't know how much longer I can hold my wings in.

"Well Ah sure do hope Prism will be impressed." Applejack said softly. This sentence broke Rainbow out of her stupor. Before she said anything though, she was interrupted by the sound of hooves stopping in front of the Carousel Boutique.

"Alright every pony! Your carriage awaits!" Spike opened the door to the carriage, pulled by four stallions.

Every pony started moving towards door, except for Rainbow Dash. She sat firmly in place and it was enough for Applejack to notice that she needed to get something out.

"Y'all go on ahead every pony. Ah jes' need a few minutes with Rainbow." Applejack called from behind her friends, as she held back herself.

Twilight and Rarity looked at each other with a knowing look but then left the two mares to converse in private. "Don't keep us waiting too long!" Twilight said, noticing the time. The door to the boutique closed behind them.

"What's wrong Rainbow?" Applejack looked at her friend curiously.

"It's nothing." Rainbow lied. She didn't want to confess her feelings now. She knew it would just totally mess up their night. However, Applejack was not convinced.

"Come on Rainbow. You've been actin' strange ever since this afternoon. Ah know ya too well. Somethin's on yer mind n' it ain't good ta keep it in. Just tell me." Applejack persisted.

"Don't go with him AJ..." Rainbow Dash closed her eyes.

"Pardon me, Sugarcube. What was that?" Applejack instinctively knew what was coming.

"You should g-go with me....I want you to stay." Rainbow shut her eyes tighter, blocking her pink irises.

"What's goin' on Sugarcube? What do ya mean go with you?" Applejack pressed on.

No! What are you doing? Stupid! Stupid! Stupid! You're gonna mess it up. She doesn't like you! She likes this new guy now! And you have Apple Cobbler waiting for you. Why are you slipping?! Rainbow's conscience reasoned with her.

"Nothing. Nevermind"

"Rainbow, Ah..."

"Look, you have a good time with Prism Glider. He's your new coltfriend after all." Rainbow's voice cracked.

"Now is this what yer sad about? Rainbow, he ain't ma coltfriend. He's just ma date." Applejack said quickly.

"Right. I saw the way you looked at each other, AJ. Don't worry, you guys look good together. I hope you're happy with him" Rainbow Dash turned away heading for the door.

"Rainbow it ain't like th-"

"It's ok. I'll see you at the party AJ". Rainbow slammed the door open and welcomed herself into the carriage containing their friends.

Applejack sighed, knowing that this was going to be a long night.

Chapter 7

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Chapter 5

It was the day of the Ponyville's Annual Hearts and Hooves Day Hoedown, as everyone hustled to get all their preparations done. The Cakes were extremely worried since at least fifteen of their chocolate-covered red velvet cupcakes went missing overnight. Rarity was fixing up everyone's outfits for the hoedown and no pony could find Fiddlesticks.

"Now where did that darn fiddle-playin' mare go to." grunted Applejack. She, for one, was stressed to her core.

"Applejack, she said she'll show up. She came all the way from Fillydelphia and she probably went back to the train to get her bags." said Twilight, intuitively. She looked at the next item on her list.

"Alright. Let's get the girls to the barn to set up everything. Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy will hang the banner, Pinkie pie will help with the decorations, I'll light all the lanterns and candles, while you set up the tables. Then we'll all meet Rarity back at Carousel Boutique for our outfits"

"Gotcha. Thanks Twi! Sure do 'ppreciate yer help." Coming from the stubborn mare, Twilight felt complete with those heartfelt words of gratitude.

"No problem AJ. Happy to help." The two, then, trotted off to the barn to get it ready, with a baby dragon trailing behind them.

"More streamers!" Pinkie pie demanded.

"More balloons!" Cheese Sandwich countered.

Both their party cannons were poised, ready to shoot at any moment. No pony dared to make a sound as Pinkie and Cheese Sandwich looked at each other, fiercely.

Then instantly, when the clock struck 1:10, both cannons shot, causing an explosion of balloons, roses, streamers and pieces of confetti. Applejack, Twilight, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy braced themselves from the impact. It was too late for Spike, as he flew out of the barn.

When the dust settled, all eyes were amazed.

The barn had transformed from a barren stable to a red and pink wonderland. The streamers were tied in perfect bows and a bouquet of roses were arranged beautifully on each table top, with petals scattered below them.The light from the lanterns lit against the wooden planks of the barn at the right angle, which gave it a glowing effect. Heart-shaped balloons were tied to every chair and corner, while the dance floor was sparkling clean. It displayed Ponyville's own logo: two mares holding a heart in between. The heart however, glimmered in the light, as Pinkie pie must have put glitter on its outline. The chandelier was assembled with red rubies and crystals, alternating each layer. The stage was set for the performances that were to be given tonight, with all the equipment set up correctly. The dessert table was filled with an assortment of red candy apples, cinnamon swirls and chocolate-covered red velvet cupcakes. The apple cobbler was next to the chocolate fountain and more than two dozen bottles of cider were chilled in ice-filled buckets.

It was truly a magical scene.

Each of the friends looked in amazement as the sights took their breath away. Pinkie pie and Cheese Sandwich had one hoof around each other's flanks, each with their own proud smile.

No pony had noticed Rainbow reaching for the cider.

"Now hold on one darn tootin' minute here, Rainbow!" Applejack called out. Rainbow Dash froze as if she had just been caught with her hoof in a cookie jar. "None fer y'all 'til the hoedown."

"Aww come on AJ! That's like five hours away! Just a little sip?" Rainbow did her signature pout, which usually made Applejack's heart melt. But Applejack wasn't in the mood.

"No!" Then, Applejack turned to Pinkie pie and Cheese Sandwich. "Thank y'all fer makin' this so pretty. Ah haven't seen the barn this gorgeous since....ever."

"Oh it was nothing." Pinkie pie smiled, with all her teeth showing. Cheese Sandwich then surprised Pinkie pie with a kiss on the cheek. This brought "awws" from each pony witnessing it, except for Rainbow Dash, who was making a gagging gesture with her hoof instead.

Pinkie pie stood there, with a wide smile plastered on her face and her body frozen. Her body then started vibrating wildly, like she could not contain her happiness. Inevitably, she shot up in the air like a pink firework, bursting into sparkles. "Yoooohooooo!"

No one had seen Pinkie pie this happy before. When Pinkie landed back down, she had a red tinge in her cheeks. "Wanna do that again Cheesy?"

"Alright. Enough with the warm fuzzy stuff you two!" Rainbow Dash said, clearly not liking the mushy aura around her. "Come on Fluttershy! Let's hang up the banner". Fluttershy nodded and followed Rainbow.

"Thank y'all again. This saved us lots of time ta spruce up before the event. Let's go girls!" Applejack said with relief. "We got ta make it to Carousel Boutique before-"

Applejack's words were interrupted by a cyan blur near the entrance of the barn. She knew who had arrived.

"Prism!" Applejack ran towards his direction. The remaining ponies, including Rainbow Dash, saw the scene unfold. Applejack hugged Prism Glider tenderly and brought him over to meet them. Every pony's mouths dropped once more, as they looked from Rainbow Dash to Prism Glider and back to Rainbow Dash.

Rainbow Dash's eye twitched, as the remaining ponies snickered mischievously. Applejack started. "Every pony, this is Prism glider. He's ma date fer the hoedown tonight! Cute, ain't he?" Prism Glider's face turned red.

Cute? Rainbow thought. No, he's not cute! And really AJ, this guy? I could totally beat him in a race. He's my subordinate. You can do better than that!

Pinkie Pie, who was the only one present for Team Applejack, grinned slightly. "Oh its on!" Pinkie said as she wiggled her eyebrows at Fluttershy and Spike.

As if to prove Pinkie's point, Prism Glider gave a quick peck on Applejack's cheek. Applejack was completely taken aback and felt her cheeks turn red. "Whoa there loverboy!"

This infuriated the rainbow-maned pegasus. HEY! No one's allowed to kiss her! Only I am...well in my dreams anyway, but STILL! That jerk's gonna get it. On Monday, I'll make him kick so many rain clouds, he'll be tired before sundown.

"Rainbow Dash!" Fluttershy yelled. This got Rainbow's attention. "May I speak to you for a second?"

Fluttershy knew that look and she was now unsure if Rainbow Dash could keep her feelings in. Modeling wasn't that bad of an ordeal, after all.

"No! Let's go team! Looks like some pony needs to be alone with their new coltfriend!" Rainbow Dash gave a disapproving look at Applejack and Prism Glider.

"What did I do?" said a bewildered Pinkie Pie.