The Social Bet

Chapters

The Heart to Heart
The Advice
The Party
The Bet

The Heart to Heart

The morning sun broke over the treetops of Sweet Apple Acres. A month earlier, the grounds on the edge of the orchards had been filled with competitors and spectators for the Sisterhooves Social. That morning it was all but deserted save for two ponies, who trudged across its grounds in the direction of the treeline. In the distance a rooster called, but the residents of the farm were already awake.

"What did you way-" Rainbow yawned, "-Wake me up so early for?"

"Gotta get an early start or there won't be 'nough time, Sugar," Applejack replied, though her own hooves dragged as she walked too, "'Sides, maybe Rares won't know it's applebuckin' time."

"Gosh, I hope so," Rainbow ran a hoof through her mane. She hadn't bothered getting cleaned up at AJ's advice, so her mane felt thick and matted, "I had forgotten about the whole thing until you showed up this morning."

"Yer welcome."

"Hmpf," Rainbow frowned, "Well at least I can consider this my workout."

"And yer helpin' a good friend," AJ raised an eyebrow at her, "Right?"

"Chyeah," Rainbow grinned and rolled her eyes, "That goes without saying."

"Good."

They continued past a few copses until they reached where half barrels had been set up. Rainbow wondered if Applejack had set the barrels in place the day before or if Big Mac had done it that morning. Unsure of how to proceed, she looked over to Applejack for guidance and found she had already started some stretches. Rainbow followed suit.

"Y'know," Rainbow stated as she stretched her hind legs, "It's really nice out here."

"Yep," AJ replied, "Good day fer buckin'."

"Well, sure," Rainbow chuckled, "But I mean that it has a nice feel to it, and it smells nice."

"Glad ya appreciate it."

"Um..." Rainbow rubbed her shins, "It's been like a year since I did this, can you show me what to do again?"

"Oh yeah, sure, lemme show ya how it's done." Applejack lazily walked up to the closest tree and patted a hoof to its trunk. "Y'see, each tree's gotta be bucked just right. Too weak and ya gotta waste yer energy buckin' it a few more times t'get all the apples. Too strong and ya risk hurtin' the tree."

She gave the tree a good solid kick with a single hoof. Branches and leaves rattled -even the trunk vibrated a little- but more importantly every apple fell to the ground or in a barrel. Rainbow noted the strength she used in the kick, and noticed that the tree also showed no wear.

"Easy peasy!" Rainbow said with a smirk.

"Alright, give 'er a go," Applejack replied and waved a hoof to a nearby tree.

Rainbow cracked her neck on either side and glared at her new challenger. Alright tree, she thought, time to show you who's boss! She took a few quick steps and gathered up her strength, then at the last moment, spun around and bucked both hooves straight into her target. She proudly jutted her chin into the air, but when she heard nothing but the sway of leaves, her jaw fell open.

"What the-" Rainbow said and looked incredulously at the tree, "But I kicked it just like you did!"

"Almost, Sugarcube," AJ tried to stifle a giggle, "Try a 'lil higher and stronger with Applebert."

"Okay." Rainbow frowned and ignored the pet name, for the moment. She kicked again as instructed. That time, she heard the thuds of success and when she looked up, barely any apples still clung to Applebert.

"There y'go! Good job!" AJ cheered and swung her hat around, "Knew ya had it in ya!"

"I don't understand," Rainbow scrunched her face at her friend, "I barely changed my kick, but it was such a huge difference."

"That's 'cause every tree's got a sweet spot," Applejack plunked her hat back onto her head and smiled, "Ya just gotta learn 'em all."

"AJ," Rainbow said, wide-eyed, "There are thousands of trees here."

"Yep!" Applejack crossed her legs, proudly.

"You know how to buck every single one of them?"

"Almost. Helps if ya get to know 'em," Applejack replied and headed to the next tree, "Ain't that right, Sugaroots?"

Rainbow worriedly watched her friend go a moment, before she shook her head and continued to her next challenge. She wondered what its name might be, briefly, but decided she'd rather not know who she was going to kick.

After a few dozen trees, Rainbow felt like she was getting the hang of it. Occasionally, she'd only have to strike a tree once and she felt victorious every time. When she heard a call come from the distance, she paused and noticed the burn in her legs. I don't know if I can do this all day, she thought, how does AJ do it? Her train of thought derailed once she saw who had called her.

"Rainbow Dash!" Rarity exclaimed as she approached with Fluttershy, Pinkie and Twilight behind her, "I suppose I shouldn't be surprised you would try to renege on your own bet!" Rainbow noticed Rarity was carrying saddlebags and muttered something under her breath.

"I'm not rene-whatever-ing anything!" Rainbow defended herself and brought a foreleg to her chest, "We're just getting an early start! Were you going to wake up before dawn?"

"Oh, well, I suppose not," Rarity conceded, "Nonetheless, where is Applejack?"

"Here!" Applejack called and stumbled when she saw all her friends, "Land sakes, ya brought everypony for this?"

"Yes I did, now we may begin." Rarity's smiled thinly, her eyes dangerous.

"Do you have any idea what's going on?" Twilight whispered to Fluttershy.

"Oh, gosh, I don't," Fluttershy whispered back, "But I'm glad I'm not the only one."

"I think it's a party!" Pinkie whispered loud enough for everyone to hear.

Rarity opened her bags and pulled two dresses out with her magic. Rainbow and Applejack cringed as the dresses were unfolded and presented, then cocked their heads to the side.

"They look pretty darn good, Rares," Applejack appraised.

"Yeah," Rainbow scratched her mane with a hoof, "I thought you were going to make something awful for us to wear."

"Rainbow," Rarity flipped her hair in contempt, "I would never intentionally create 'something awful', I do have morals."

Rainbow rolled her eyes, but she smiled despite herself. Applejack chuckled and shared a relieved glance with Rainbow.

"Enough dallying now," Rarity hovered the dresses to them, "Put them on."

Rainbow's dress was light blue like the sky, without sleeve or shoulder, and sported a sash around the waist that matched her mane colors. Applejack's was similar, but had a brown ruffled collar instead of a sash, and was dyed light green to red. Both dresses stopped at the knee, which allowed them to buck freely.

They took one last glance at each other, then shrugged, and slipped their dresses on. Rarity nodded appreciatively.

"I guess I was worri-" started Rainbow.

"Now!" Rarity yelled. Sweetie Belle burst from her cover behind a tree, a 'borrowed' camera from school in hoof. Rainbow and AJ screamed in horror as Sweetie Belle took picture after picture.

"H-Hey!" Rainbow yelled and tried to cover herself with her hooves as a blush swelled in her cheeks from her friends' laughter. "What's the big idea? I'd better not see this in any newspapers!" Applejack quietly hid her face behind her hat.

"Don't worry," teased Rarity, "I keep a portfolio of all my creations." Her eye twinkled mischievously.

"What did I ever do to you, Rarity?" Rainbow nearly sobbed and she gave up trying to hide from the camera.

"You really want to know, do you?" Rarity stamped a hoof, "Dodge Junction! Both you and Applejack wouldn't stop your little chase, and left me with Pinkie to make our way back home! No offense Pinkie."

"Heehee! Cherry-Changa Kumquat!" Sang Pinkie repeatedly while her friends carried on their conversation.

"Ah'm sorry, Rarity," Applejack brought her hat to her chest, "It was my fault all that happened."

"No..." Rainbow sighed, "It was my fault, I'm the one who said to leave you behind. Sorry."

A moment went by as Rarity watched the two of them with their heads bowed in shame. She cleared her throat.

"Apology accepted," Rarity smiled warmly that time, "That's all I wanted to hear. You can keep the dresses if you'd like, and I'd understand if you wanted to take them off for your work."

"Thanks, Rarity, they really are very nice." Applejack put her hat back on and tipped it to her, "We'd better get back to work, though, dress 'n all." Rarity nodded.

"Come girls, we've had our fun, let's leave them to their work." Rarity turned to leave and Sweetie Belle followed. Twilight shrugged, bewildered at the scene that just played out, but she and the others left as well.

Rainbow sighed and went back to work for a while. The dress wasn't anything like she had imagined and it hadn't interfered with the last few trees she bucked. I think I might actually wear this again sometime, it's nice. Looks like everything turned out alright.

The rest of that day consisted of hard labor with meals and breaks interspersed throughout. They had made significant progress on the first day, and AJ had thanked her many times. When the sun turned a reddish-orange and touched the treetops of the orchard, AJ called the work day over.

Rainbow fell to the grass and panted heavily. Her dress had soaked through with sweat long ago and she hoped she hadn't ruined it already. The burn in her legs had caught up to her hours ago, but she had pushed on regardless. I don't think I'm able to walk anymore, she thought, what am I going to do tomorrow?

Applejack finished off the last tree of the orchard they were in and made her way to Rainbow. Unable to stop her, Applejack lifted Rainbow carefully by the shoulders and propped her against the shaded side of a tree.

"Ah'll be right back, Sugarcube." Applejack said and gathered up the last barrels onto the cart, then made her way back to the barn. Rainbow mumbled something and made a half nod.

Several minutes passed and Rainbow regained her composure, though she knew that it'd be a while before she could stand. Luckily she hadn't used her wings at all that day, and she entertained the idea that she could fly into bed. Warm, soft, bed. A cold, hard object tapped against her cheek and left it wet. Rainbow woke from her daydream and found Applejack was handing her two bottles of fizzy apple cider.

"Oh my gosh," Rainbow grabbed them and immediately opened one, "Oh my gosh," she brought it to her lips and chugged it down. It burned her throat but she ignored it. She gasped then grimaced in pain, "Oh my gosh, I could kiss you right now."

"Ever the sweet-talker," Applejack chuckled and coolly sipped her own fizzy cider as she sat next to Rainbow.

They sat in silence and enjoyed their drinks under the sun. Rainbow closed her eyes, a half finished bottle in her hoof at her side, and listened to the leaves rustle. The orchard was a great place for naps, she decided. She stole a peek at Applejack after some time and noticed she was restless.

"Hey, what's up?" asked Rainbow softly. Applejack's shoulders jumped, then she sighed.

"Ah dunno, got a lot on mah mind, ah guess."

"Spill it, I'm not going to Dodge Junction again."

"Hehe, well..." Applejack sighed, "I was talkin' to Granny a few months back, and she said ah'm about the age where i should be lookin' fer somepony."

"Like a special somepony?"

"Y-yeah..." Applejack took a sip, "But ah don't know how to go about it."

"Well..." Rainbow furrowed her brow in thought, "What kind of pony are you looking for?"

"What, like, describe 'em?" Applejack's voice wavered. Rainbow took a sip and Mm-hummed. Applejack took a moment to answer, "Uh, they'd need to be honest, hard workin', loyal, dependable, polite-" Rainbow burst out laughing, "-What?"

"You pretty much just described yourself, AJ," Rainbow replied once she had calmed back down.

"This ain't easy for me!" Applejack raised her voice and blushed, "Why don't you try instead of makin' fun of me."

"Sure, alright..." Rainbow agreed and thought a moment, "I'd probably go for somepony who's as awesome and talented as I am. Somepony who's fearless, who never backs down from a challenge. Somepony who can keep up with me... Like one of the Wonderbolts!"

"Oh..." Applejack looked away, "So yer looking fer a Pegasus who's just like you, huh?" Rainbow laughed.

"Yeah, I guess it isn't easy to describe your special somepony, is it?" Rainbow blushed, "I've never really thought about it much until now."

"Y-yeah, me neither..." Applejack stood suddenly, "Welp. Ah'm gonna turn in, can ya make it back home on yer own?"

"Pff!" Rainbow waved a hoof, "I'm fine, just..." She tried to stand but every time she put weight on her legs, they fell out underneath her. Instead, she used her wings and brought herself to a hover. "Uh, yeah I think I'll manage." She smiled.

"Alright," Applejack smiled back, "I'll see ya tomorrow, bright 'n early."

"You got it, boss!"

"Oh, RD?" Applejack pointed to Rainbow, "Make sure ya get cleaned up before goin' to bed or you'll regret it."

"Heh, Right."

The following morning had not been a good one for Rainbow Dash, though she was surprised that she was still up and on her hooves. It had taken all of her mettle to get out of bed before dawn and make her way to the farm. When she arrived she found Big Mac and got directions to which orchard she and Applejack were to clear that day. Out of curiosity, she asked Big Mac what he was doing that day and he pointed to another orchard.

"By yourself?" Rainbow asked. Big Mac just blinked slowly at her once, then turned and left. "I guess that's a 'yup'."

Rainbow found Applejack a few minutes later, who had already started the first few trees of the orchard. Like her, she had opted to leave the dress behind today. They greeted each other sleepily, then Rainbow stretched aching muscles.

"Ah was gonna let ya sleep in today, RD," Applejack bucked another tree and frowned when a few apples remained, "Surprised to see ya walkin' and early."

"Can't let my best friend down," Rainbow said in a strained voice as she stretched, "It's just a few sore muscles. I am pretty impressed with you and Big Mac though, you guys are tough."

"Thanks."

For the rest of the week Rainbow fared a little better physically. As AJ had told her on many occasions, it really was hard but rewarding work. Her part time job as a weather pony never took very long and suited her talents better, she found.

Something disturbed Rainbow though; as they had neared the end of applebuck season, Applejack had talked to her less and less. They had barely spoken during work or break and when they had shared drinks at the end of the day, they had done so in silence.

She needed to know why.

Rainbow pushed herself steadily through the remainder of the last day, focused on getting finished early. When the last tree was freed of its fruit, Rainbow checked the sun. It was low but there was still plenty of time. As before, she found a good place to rest and Applejack brought them some refreshments; apple juice that time. Awkward silence ensued, but Rainbow was determined to stop it.

"So, AJ," Rainbow said casually, "What's going on?"

"Relaxin'" Applejack took a sip and kept her gaze away from her. Rainbow frowned.

"Everything okay?"

"Eeyup."

"Okay, that's it," Rainbow got up and sat in front of Applejack, "What is really going on, AJ?"

"Ah said ah'm fine," Applejack shared an annoyed glance with Rainbow, then continued to ignore her.

"...Liar." Rainbow tested and when Applejack appeared guilty instead of angry, she knew she was right. "AJ, why won't you talk to me? Did I do something wrong?"

"No... Ah'm..." Applejack sighed, "Ah'm just a coward..."

"What?"

"When we talked about what... what we wanted in our special somepony..." Applejack's bottom lip quivered and she breathed hard, "Ah lied. Ah've been lyin' about everythin'."

"You... don't want an honest, hard worker?" Rainbow scrunched her face.

"No, Rainbow." Applejack paused a moment then looked her in the eye, "I do want an honest, hard workin', loyal, dependable pony. A-Ah found her." She smiled weakly.

"Her?" Rainbow asked a bit shocked. Applejack looked at her best friend intently and smiled hopefully. Rainbow swallowed hard, "Y-you mean m-me?"

"Honestly, ah do," Applejack appeared flushed, "Ah might not be a Wonderbolt... but... W-Will ya be mah special somepony?"

"I-I..." Rainbow stammered and she also went flush, "I... don't, k-know..."

"Oh..." Applejack looked at the grass between them a moment, then stood. "Ah'm sorry, ah'd better get on home." She hurriedly galloped away.

"W-Wait!" Rainbow called but when Applejack showed no sign of stopping, she took flight. In a split second, Rainbow landed in a blur of colors in front of Applejack, who skidded to a halt and hid her face behind her hat. "Please, don't go... I..." Rainbow couldn't think of what to say, so many emotions ran through her and her heart pounded in her chest, "I w-wasn't prepared for that, I'm sorry. AJ... I-I need some time to think. You're my best friend and I like you a lot, I've just never thought about anypony in that way before..."

Rainbow noticed teardrops fell below the cover of Applejack's stetson and her heart ached, but she continued, "I'm sorry... please give me some time... please."

Applejack nodded behind her stetson but said nothing. Rainbow apologized once more before she flew quickly home, the image of her friend crying seared into her mind the entire time.

Home provided no comfort nor solace from her thoughts. Rainbow unconsciously got cleaned up and readied for bed, but laid there for several more hours with her mind elsewhere. She replayed the conversation repeatedly in her mind, thought of what she said, what she could have said, what she should have said. Eventually, she couldn't even remember the majority of the conversation properly. Whenever she replayed the moment she caught Applejack crying, her heart leaped into her throat and she teared up herself. It pained her to think she had caused that, but she had been caught by surprise.

AJ loves me, she thought and she got flushed all over again, She loves me... but... do I love her? Rainbow turned over in bed and teared up again for the dozenth time, Oh Celestia, why don't I know?

She flipped the covers off of her and sat up. The cold nipped at her extremities, but she felt like she deserved it. I need to talk to somepony about this, she decided and looked outside. It had become night. Twilight it is.

Rainbow jumped out her open window and flew with urgency to Twilight's new library, but stopped in midair when she noticed her outside the ruins of the Golden Oak. Cautiously, she glided down next to Twilight, who turned her way briefly then gazed back at her old home.

"Hey, Rainbow," Twilight said softly, "What are you still doing up?"

"Couldn't sleep," Rainbow replied, "You alright?"

"Yeah," Twilight turned and looked her over, "Just lost in nostalgia. But let's head back inside the library, you look like something's troubling you."

"Y-yeah..."

They headed back to Twilight's room and Twilight shut the door behind them softly. Once candles were lit magically, Rainbow looked about the room for the first time. It wasn't so much a bedroom as it was a study with a bed in it, which brought a smile to Rainbow for a moment. She checked the room for any other occupants as Twilight walked to the fireplace and lit it.

"Spike has his own room now," Twilight rolled her eyes and she levitated some pillows to the mantle of the fireplace, "It's a mess of comic books and gems. Come and sit down, would you like some tea?"

"No thanks," Rainbow sat on a pillow and let the heat wrap her like a warm blanket.

"Alright," Twilight sat down next to her, "What's the matter?"

"When... How can you tell when you love somepony?" Rainbow asked sorrowfully.

"Oh dear," Twilight glanced at her writing podium where she wrote letters to the other princesses, but dismissed it, "That is a tough question to answer, may I ask what brought this on?"

"J-Just curious..." Rainbow scratched the back of her head with a hoof.

"Well..." Twilight cleared her throat, "I don't have a lot of experience in love, but it's when the relationship between two ponies grows past just being friends. When their thoughts are always with the other and they can't live without them. Love can be dangerous, and for some ponies it's hard for them to tell when they're in love. For others, like my brother for instance," She rolled her eyes again, "It comes easily."

"I think I understand..." Rainbow replied quietly.

"Also," Twilight raised a hoof and placed it on Rainbow's chest, "They'll feel it in here, when the time comes." Rainbow nodded solemnly. "Does that answer your question?"

"Yeah," Rainbow replied, she felt slightly better, "Thanks, Twilight. I'd better get to bed."

"Alright." Twilight rose with Rainbow and escorted her out, "Have a good night, Rainbow. Feel free to come by anytime to talk, okay?"

"Okay, have a good night." Rainbow gave her a hug and flew home.

When she slipped under the covers of her bed that time, it felt much more welcoming. She sighed, the talk with Twilight had helped calm her nerves enough to rest. She vowed she would sort out her feelings and confront Applejack with an answer as soon as she could.

When her thoughts drifted to Applejack, she remembered all the happy moments they had shared together for the past few years since they became friends. How Applejack was always there for her, how she always tried to best her. Applejack really is an amazing pony, she thought, Anypony would be lucky to call her their special somepony. She smiled in bed and brought the covers closer to her. The pressure against her front reminded her of their tumble during the race. She recalled Applejack's smell and how strong she had felt against her. She breathed in deep and nuzzled the covers before sleep finally claimed her.

The Advice

Dawn crested the rolling hills of Sweet Apple Acres. The morning twilight's blue skies and faint stars relented against the sun's red glow, but Applejack watched the floorboards of her room in favor of the beautiful colors outside. She had sat there since her last attempt at sleep and since her eyes had run dry. Exhausted, she wanted nothing more than to crawl back into bed, but she knew she couldn't.

Applejack fell onto her back, sending a ripple through her comforter and a loud creak from the bed frame. Yesterday, it had taken every bit of self control she could muster to pretend all was well in front of her family. That had only been a few hours, now she faced an entire day and she doubted she'd be able to make it. She'd have to handle them in small doses.

She regretted telling Rainbow the way she had, but she knew she couldn't have hidden it from her much longer. She had felt trapped: Either be dishonest with her feelings or risk her friendship. It sickened her that she could endanger a friendship over something like honesty, it made no sense.

Applejack sighed and rolled off of the bed and onto her hooves. Maybe work will get mah mind off of it, fer a little while at least.

Applebloom announced breakfast from downstairs. They'd grow suspicious if she didn't head down soon, so Applejack steeled herself and headed for the door. She caught a glimpse of herself in the mirror as she passed the vanity and stopped. The outer rims of her eyes burned red and she sported terrible bed-mane, like she was hungover or had aged significantly overnight. Applejack huffed and continued on regardless, maybe her family wouldn't notice. She headed down the hall and made note that Granny was still asleep, one less pair of eyes on her that morning. The pleasing smell of oats and toast enveloped her as she clambered down the steps to the main floor, but it did nothing to raise her appetite that morning. She entered the kitchen unceremoniously and immediately felt the gazes of Applebloom and Big Mac on her. Small doses.

"Mornin', sis," Applebloom greeted from her seat at the table, "You, uh, sleep okay?"

"Had some bad dreams, that's all," Applejack lied and fussed over her hair, making it worse.

"We takin' the applecart into town this mornin'?" Applebloom asked and scooped a spoonful of oatmeal into her mouth.

"Yep, but ah can handle it myself," Applejack replied and headed straight for the door, "Ah think I'll get an early start too, see you later!"

"But sis!" Applebloom pointed to AJ's usual spot at the table, currently set with hot oatmeal, toast and juice. "Don't you want your breakfast first?"

"A-Ah'm good! Ah'll have some apples on the way to town, gotta go!" Applejack replied hurriedly and rushed out of the house. Applebloom and Big Mac shared a concerned look at each other.

AJ grimaced as she galloped towards the apple cellar. She'd be questioned about that later she was sure, but she'd have to deal with that then, currently it was time to focus on work and not Rainbow Dash. Once she had loaded a cart, she strapped herself in and made her way towards Ponyville. The walk alone offered some respite from hiding her feelings, but the moment she was safely alone again her heartache resurfaced and her eyes stung.

No! Yer a tough pony, AJ, you can do this. Just stop thinkin' about her fer a bit.

In a few minutes Applejack reached town. It was early yet, but some residents had begun their day and greeted her warmly as she passed. She swallowed hard, she realized too late she should've sent Applebloom in her place, now she risked bumping into Rainbow. Every Pegasus that passed caused a hitch in her step and she reflexively tugged at a hat she forgot at home. Light blue ponies at the corners of her vision became Rainbow until examined closer. By the time she reached a favorable spot at the market, Applejack sweated and shook at her post.

Get a hold of yerself, AJ, Rainbow's prob'ly not even awake this early. Shoot! Stop thinkin' about Rainbo-

"Hey, Coooooousin!" Pinkie exclaimed, eliciting a jump from Applejack.

"Gueh!" Applejack ducked behind her cart, then peered around the corner, "Oh, it's just you, Pinkie."

"Just me?" Pinkie looked around, "Were you expecting someone else?"

"No! A-Ah mean yes, just not-ah mean uh, care for an apple?"

"Sure!" Pinkie accepted the fruit, "Are you alright, AJ? You seem twitchy but you don't have an apple-sense." She gasped, "Unless you DO have an apple-sense."

"N-No, Pinkie." Applejack sighed, "Ah don't have no apple-sense, ah'm just havin' a rough mornin'."

"Oh!" Pinkie bit off half of her apple and chewed, "Aht's 'oo 'ad, 'oo 'eed a 'ardee?"

"Ah think ah'm alright, Pinkie," AJ replied quickly, a party was the last thing she needed right now. Pinkie swallowed.

"Okay! Later, 'cuz!" Pinkie replied cheerfully and bounced away humming a tune.

Applejack returned to hiding behind her cart and checking the skies. No more surprises revealed themselves for a while and she calmed down some. Ah can't continue like this, Applejack thought, Ah'll be in the looney bin at the hospital by the end of the day at this rate... Ah need Rainbow t'say yes already, but ah can't even face her right now. What am ah gonna do now? She looked across the street and her gaze fell upon Carousel Boutique. Jaw set in determination, she stood and made a beeline to Rarity's shop. Rarity knows 'bout this sorta stuff, she'll know what to do. She knocked on Rarity's door and checked over her shoulder, when no answer came after a moment she knocked louder.

"We aren't open yet!" Came Rarity's distant voice from deep inside.

"Rarity, ah need to talk to you!" Applejack yelled into the door and hoped no pony was watching her.

"Applejack? One moment!"

The sound of dishes clanging on counter tops reached Applejack, so did Rarity clearing her throat. Hoofsteps approached the door until it swung open abruptly and Rarity gestured her inside. Applejack obeyed and shut the door behind her.

"What's wrong, Applejack?" asked Rarity, her curls were still a mess and her voice tired, but she appeared deeply concerned as she looked Applejack over.

"Ah don't mean to bother ya, ah'm sorry, but I just have to tell somepony," replied Applejack with her head low.

"Come into the kitchen make yourself comfortable first," Rarity waved and headed into the back of the store, "have you eaten?"

"No, ah kinda forgot." AJ chuckled nervously. Rarity paused briefly mid-stride.

"This must be serious, I'll make you some breakfast."

"Ah appreciate it," Applejack took a seat and worked up the courage to confess her feelings. Rarity waited patiently without a word as she prepared something quick and easy to make. "Ah told Rainbow that ah like her, more than just a friend." Rarity froze and slowly turned around, she couldn't quite contain her glee at first, but worry soon replaced excitement.

"What did she say?" Rarity asked slowly.

"She needs time to think."

"I see..." Rarity finished breakfast and brought Applejack some toast and coffee, "Please, you need to eat something." Applejack nodded and forced herself to. "How do you feel?"

"Ah'm... scared," replied Applejack, "Ah was scared of her answer for weeks now, but it's so much worse that she knows and ah'm still waitin' to find out. Ah don't want this to make things weird between us, or... or worse."

"I understand... It is scary, Applejack," Rarity placed a hoof on her friend's, "You've revealed your true feelings to the one you love. That is a difficult thing to do. I suspect Rainbow was caught off guard by your confession."

"Ah didn't mean to tell her the way ah did, she just knew somethin' was up and kept pressurin' me to tell her." AJ sighed and Rarity soothingly rubbed her foreleg. "Ah couldn't lie to her anymore."

"Did you start this bet so you could get her alone on the farm with you?" Rarity suddenly asked.

"Uh..." Applejack looked away guiltily, "Yup." Rarity gave her a sly smile.

"Clever. When did all this happen?"

"When we finished applebuckin' yesterday. Ah was tryin' to feel her out at first so ah brought up what we would like in our special someponies, she didn't exactly say what I'd hoped... and ah was gonna just forget about it, but ah guess ah acted like a long tailed cat in a room full o' rockin' chairs and she must've figured ah was lyin' 'bout somethin'."

"Well, she hasn't told you no..." Rarity explained softly, "It's a lot to take so suddenly, she needs some time to figure out what you mean to her too. Wouldn't you rather she be sure about her feelings towards you?" Rarity looked to her sympathetically.

"Yeah..." Applejack sighed. "But ah've been jumpier than a grasshopper since. Ah can't stop seein' her everywhere and ah can't face her right now. Ah'm so scared she'll tell me no."

"Applejack, I know this is hard," Rarity stated seriously, "But you cannot avoid her. You must think of her as the pony you've fallen for, not as the pony you expect to break your heart. Don't give up on your feelings, and on her, before she has a chance to tell you how she feels."

Applejack stared at the empty plate and cup before her a moment, surprised to find that she had eaten without knowing it, then looked to her friend.

"Yer right, Rares," Applejack nodded, "Ah'll try... Yer not... upset about this, are ya?"

"Certainly not," Rarity replied, shocked, "Why would I?"

"Ah'm pinin' fer another mare, one of our friends," explained AJ, "It'll change things between all of us."

"Yes, and it'll be a good change, you'll see. Good friends will accept you for who you are and who you will become. I have no doubt that everypony will be ecstatic for the both of you."

"Thanks, Rarity, that really means a lot to me."

"You're welcome," Rarity smiled warmly and gave her a hug.

"Ah'd better get back to mah cart," Applejack stated reluctantly as she stood to leave, "Did you want some apples? No charge." She quickly added.

"I can't say no to that." Rarity beamed.

* * * * *

Rainbow locked eyes with Applejack, who strutted across the event grounds with a blue ribbon showing prominently against her orange coat. The crowd cheered around Rainbow, but it sounded distant to her even though she sat amongst them. Instead, she heard Applejack's voice clearly over the rest.

"Like what ya see, RD?" Applejack teased as she sauntered by Rainbow.

"Y-yeah," replied Rainbow without thinking, her gaze followed Applejack's every move. The crowd was gone then, there was only her and Applejack.

"Better hurry, ah'm gonna win the race, Rainbow," Applejack said suddenly and took off in a sprint.

Rainbow gave chase and the ground beneath her became the loose soil of an endless racetrack. She felt light as a feather, like she was flying instead of running. She kept her gaze on Applejack; where they were going didn't matter to her anymore, she simply needed to keep Applejack near. Just as she was about to take the lead, Applejack gave her a sultry look and tackled her to the ground.

They fell painlessly that time, like falling on clouds. Rainbow felt Applejack envelope her in a hug, her sturdy frame and tender warmth wrapping Rainbow up comfortably and securely. Rainbow nuzzled her face into Applejack's throat and breathed in her familiar smell as the rhythmic sound of her love's heartbeat soothed her. Applejack said her name softly and Rainbow glided her muzzle up until they were face to face.

Rainbow closed her eyes and in the warm darkness felt soft pressure against her lips.

Rainbow woke up. Sunlight flooded through her open bedroom window and bathed her in warmth. Birds chirped melodies outside and the scent of the Everfree carried in the breeze. Sometime during the night she had bundled all her cloud covers up and hugged them tightly. Rainbow breathed in deep and laid there for a few more minutes until the lightness in her head and her heart faded. Judging by the sun, it was late morning.

What the hay was that? Rainbow thought as she tried to push herself up. Her muscles protested loudly and she fell back into bed, although comfortably. I've never had a dream like that before, or thought of Applejack that way... now I can't get her out of my mind. Rainbow rolled onto her back and brought a hoof to her lips. It felt so real. She went flush as she replayed the last few moments of her dream in her mind. Is that how AJ thinks of me? I... wouldn't mind that, I think.

"I need to know more about this stuff..." Rainbow said to herself and slipped slowly out of bed. Urgency deferred breakfast -or lunch at this point- and she headed straight out her front door. Once she had taken flight, she banked towards twilight's new home and kept her eyes open for a certain orange pony. She was surprised to find that she felt both relieved and disappointed that she didn't find Applejack during her short flight to the crystal tree.

Twilight liked to keep her doors open when she was home during the day, so Rainbow glided right through the entrance hallway and landed delicately on the golden disk of the throne room. Rainbow called out and heard Twilight's beckoning reply down one of the passages. Through a tunnel-like hall she went, the scent of parchment, candles and books growing stronger as she neared the library. The hall opened into a modest room full of newly crafted bookshelves and desks. The last time Rainbow was there, she had helped Twilight organize and fill the few bookshelves they had scrounged from town, now the room was overflowing with knowledge.

"I think you're going to need a bigger room," Rainbow commented as she trotted from row to row in the search for her friend.

"Yes, I'll have to use a third room I think," Twilight replied from somewhere behind Rainbow, "Or put my own collection in my room."

"Did the Golden Oak have this many books?" Rainbow about-faced and searched down a new set of rows.

"Well, every wall in almost every room was a bookshelf in the Golden Oak... but no, Princess Celestia is sending me copies of books from The Royal Canterlot Library." Twilight sighed, "And I think I recognize a few of these when we were in the library of the Crystal Empire."

"Does that mean you're too busy to hang?" Disappointment crept into Rainbow's question.

"No," Twilight replied as she emerged from the row behind Rainbow somehow, "I could use a break, what did you have in mind?"

"U-uh..." Rainbow stammered, she hadn't really thought that part out yet but knew she needed somewhere private to talk, "Want to go for a fly?"

"Sure!" Twilight beamed, "It could help clear my head a little, you ready?" She spread her wings.

"Yeah!" Rainbow cheered for she knew what was coming next. Twilight's horn hummed and lit in a pink aura, bathing them both in a soft glow. Rainbow felt a hidden force surround her, where it contacted her coat it sent little jolts under her skin and forced her hairs on end. Teleportation feels so cool, Rainbow mused, we must be going far this time. Once the humming reached its peak and the force spread over her whole body, her entire world went pink, then white. For a split second nothing seemed to happen in the whiteness, but her senses went for a loop and she suppressed the feeling of vertigo that she was so used to by now. Suddenly they were several thousand feet in the air above Ponyville and Rainbow plunged into a dive. She shouted in exhilaration as she gained speed, the feeling of the wind in her mane and coat rejuvenated her, before she extended her wings and soared in quick circles back up to Twilight. "Eh-heh... Sorry."

"It's ok, I know you like to do that," Twilight giggled, "I'm glad you're feeling better today."

"A bit, yeah," Rainbow said uncomfortably as they flew lazily over Ponyville, "That's why I wanted to see you, actually."

"Oh?"

"Yeah, last night..." Rainbow trailed off and thought of her dream again, then cleared her throat, "The reason I asked you that question is because I think I'm in love with somepony."

"Oh?" Twilight echoed with a knowing smile.

"Yeah, i-it's..." Rainbow's stammered, she felt anxious just trying to say it, "It's AJ."

"Oh! Really?" Twilight sounded shocked.

"Yeah, what of it?" Rainbow asked, a bit offended and embarrassed.

"Oh! I'm so sorry, I was just surprised," Twilight replied in a panic, then furrowed her brow, "But it makes sense."

"It does?" Rainbow paused in mid-air, stunned.

"Yeah..." Twilight hovered as well, "You two are always competing against each other and spend a lot of time together. She's one of your best friends, you two share more commonalities than the rest of us."

"Commonalities?" Rainbow scratched her head.

"Yes! You're both competitive, athletic, loyal, stubborn-uh, but in a good way... to name a few..." Twilight chuckled nervously. "But, my original question still stands, what brought this on?"

"AJ said she had the hots for me last night," Rainbow bragged.

"So, you love her because she thinks you're attractive?" Twilight raised an eyebrow.

"No! That's not-" Rainbow face-hoofed, "She asked to be special someponies, and I admit I kinda freaked out and left, but then I thought-"

"You what?"

"Gah! I-mean-I told her I needed to think about it, then I was confused, then I talked to you last night, then I thought about it more and I think I do like her like that!" Rainbow replied rapidly. Twilight flew dumbfounded a moment while her ear twitched.

"Alright, that's not so bad, um, congratulations?" Twilight offered. Rainbow groaned.

"What do I do now, genius?"

"How should I know?" Twilight went on the defensive, taking a few flaps backwards, "I'm not Cadence."

"But you had the hots for that Sentry guy!" Rainbow jabbed Twilight with a hoof, who flushed.

"M-Maybe! But I never told him! That hardly makes me an expert!"

"But you're good at everything! And I'm completely lost here and I need help!" Rainbow brought her hooves together and begged, "Please, Twilight, ya gotta help me." Twilight sighed in defeat.

"Alright, alright, um..." Twilight thought of the most obvious answer, "Why don't you go tell her how you feel?"

"I can't do that!" Rainbow panicked.

"Why not?" Twilight shrugged, "I'm sure she'd appreciate the honesty, she's probably going crazy waiting on your answer."

"I know! I know..." Rainbow put her face in her hooves, "But I'm not sure of anything yet."

"Rainbow, you don't have to be sure," Twilight explained and placed a hoof on Rainbow's shoulder, "Just be honest to her, try asking her out on a few dates and see where it goes. You don't have to have all the answer right now."

"Yeah, okay, I can do that. Ask her out... yeah. How do I do that?"

"Oh dear," It was Twilight's turn to face-hoof, "Well, there's a surprise party for Applejack tomorrow night, maybe ask her at the party?"

"There's a surprise party for AJ tomorrow?" Rainbow went numb. "Why? It's not her birthday."

"Pinkie didn't say, didn't you get the invite?"

"Oh-my-gosh," Rainbow bolted towards Ponyville, leaving a rainbow streak behind her. Twilight called out and started to chase but quickly gave up, she had no chance to keeping up.

"So much for clearing my head." Twilight muttered irritably, then disappeared in a pink flash.

The Party

Rainbow landed forcefully outside Sugarcube Corner and sent a few ponies stumbling awkwardly aside. A recent patron that barred her way into the shop dropped her paper grocer bag and nervously sidestepped out of the way. Just as Rainbow set a hoof on the front step, a flash of pink light blinded her. Once the spots cleared from her vision, she found Twilight scowling down at her.

"Rude!" Accused Twilight, her tail flicked irritably. Rainbow scoffed, but immediately backed down, she didn't need to waste time.

"Sorry, I just-" Rainbow attempted to slide past her, but Twilight shifted to continue blocking, "-Twi, I need to ask Pinks something, I think this party might be a really bad idea." Twilight huffed, but retreated into the store and let her pass.

"Talking Pinkie out of a party might be impossible, you know." Twilight advised as Rainbow entered the shop, finally. Mr. Cake was behind the counter taking orders, while Mrs. Cake's voice could be heard from the kitchen. No pink pony.

"Get the turnips ready," muttered Rainbow as she cut through the lineup at the till and headed upstairs.

"You still have to tell us that story,'' said Twilight as she followed.

Pinkie was in her loft making party preparations when Rainbow and Twilight found her. Colorful paper chains of every color drooped like a suspended spiderweb from the ceiling. Balloons with uplifting sayings like 'Feel Better Soon!' and 'Be Happy!' clumped together around the room. Pinkie herself was in the process of coloring a paper banner with paints and colored pencils. She greeted them warmly.

"Hey Pinkie," Rainbow replied quickly, "How come you're having a party for Applejack?"

"Well, I saw her this morning and she looked pretty blue, I mean she's actually orange, which is weird because there's no orange apples, but i guess she's part Orange, so an orange Apple isn't-''

"Pinkie!" Rainbow interrupted.

"Yes, Rainbow?"

"Applejack was sad, I get it, did she say why?"

"Nope! She said she was having an off day, so I didn't think anything of it, but then Applebloom came to see me a little while after and said something about Applejack not eating and avoiding her family and being a super-saddy-sad face since this morning and wanted me to throw her a party to cheer her up!" Pinkie continued coloring a crude sketch of a happy AJ on her banner for a moment.

"Then what happened?" Rainbow asked insistently.

"Then I said yes!" Pinkie replied cheerfully, "I've been here since I sent out invitations. You got yours right? I tried to shoot it into your window this morning but I think it got stuck in your roof."

"Pinkie, I need you to cancel your party." Rainbow said cautiously. At Rainbow's last word, Pinkie's scribbles on the banner stopped and a few seconds passed in silence before she giggled nervously.

"Silly Rainbow, why would anyone ever want to cancel a party?"

"Because-" Rainbow cut herself short, "-Uh... Um, I know why Applejack is upset and this won't make it better."

"When has a party not made everything better, Miss Party-Pooper?"

"Pinkie!" Rainbow yelled in frustration.

"Easy there, Rainbow," Twilight placed a reassuring hoof on her friend's shoulder, "I'm with Pinkie on this one, having a party will give you both an excuse to meet up, and then you can talk to her after the party." Pinkie cocked her head to the side.

"I think it'll be super awkward," Rainbow said flatly.

"Your friends will be there to make sure it goes smoothly. Right, Pinkie?" Twilight offered and Pinkie cheerfully agreed, "Besides, having some fun together might make things easier for your talk afterward." Rainbow sighed.

"Are you sure about this?" Rainbow rubbed her shins together, "If she was avoiding her family, I don't think she wants to be around us right now."

"Maybe not, but I think the best cure of sadness is to have your friends and family with you, even if you feel like being alone." Twilight smiled warmly, "It'll be okay, Rainbow, trust me."

"Alright, alright," Rainbow took a deep breath, "I'll tell her after the party." Twilight's smile broadened and she nodded once.

"Tell her what?" Pinkie asked.

"Oh, don't worry about it, Pinkie," Twilight replied for Rainbow, "It's nothing. Did you need me to help with any party preparations before I head out?"

"Naw, I've got this!" Pinkie waved them along, "You guys do your thang."

"Okay, see you later!" Twilight headed for the stairs, "C'mon, Rainbow, let's go practice what you're going to say to Applejack."

"Oh, goody, this'll be fun," Rainbow said sarcastically, "Later, Pinkie."

"See ya tomorrow!" Pinkie replied and inspected her completed banner after her friends had left, "Perfect! Now, what games should we play? Hmm... It's been a while since we played truth or dare!"

* * * * *

That day had been rough on her, but Applejack was nearing the end of it as she washed the dishes by herself. Her family's soft voices reached her from the next room as they chatted and played board games. Normally she'd join them when the dishes were done, yet tonight as she looked out at the setting sun over the orchards, she had no heart for it. This made her worried.

Applejack finished the dishes and drained the rest of the hot water down the sink, rinsing it. The water splashed in the basin in the cupboard below and sounded full enough to take out. Maybe ah'll turn in after ah dump the water, Applejack thought and opened the cupboard a crack. Her friend's encouraging words repeated softly in the back of her mind, the same words she had thought about throughout that day. It was time to follow them, she decided, and closed the cupboard.

"That can wait," Applejack muttered and headed into the living room to join her family, "This cain't."

"Hey, Sis!" Applebloom greeted from her seat on the floor by the coffee table, "Want to play some Settlers of Equestria with us?"

"Heh, sure," Applejack replied with a relieved smile and sat next to her sister, "Deal me in after yer game."

"We can start over, I've pretty much got this beat anyhow," said Applebloom and gave her brother a confident smile.

"Yup," Big Mac admitted and sighed as he threw his cards down.

"Awe, thanks." Applejack chuckled, already she felt calmer.

They played another game of Settlers and Applejack cornered the market for cows and apples early on. Meanwhile, Bic Mac and Applebloom fought for control of salt rock and gemstones. Applejack ended in victory once she was able to secure the longest wagon path from Bic Mac.

"Yeehaw!" AJ cried victoriously, "Good game, just goes to show ya just can't beat apples."

"A two for one apple trader doesn't hurt none either," Applebloom noted.

"Eh-heh... Maybe," Applejack said guiltily, "You should get to bed though, Missy, and ah've gotta take the dish water out back." Applejack got up and headed to the kitchen. Bic Mac looked pointedly at Applebloom, who cleared her throat.

"Oh! Um," Applebloom started nervously, "I forgot to mention we're out of flour for tomorrow."

"We are?" Applejack stopped and turned around, "But the mill's closed by now."

"Sorry!" Applebloom winced and her big sister sighed.

"Welp, ah guess I'll have to make a trip tomorrow mornin'."

"Wait! Can't we ask Pinkie Pie if she'd open the shop for just a minute? I bet the bakery's got a bag left." Applebloom suggested hopefully. Applejack pondered a moment.

"That's not a bad idea, but we are going to bed, young Missy," replied Applejack and gave a stern stare.

"Okay, okay, I'm going," Applebloom gave a resigned sigh then headed upstairs.

Applejack waited until she could hear teeth being brushed before she went to dump the water out back. When she returned to the kitchen she found Bic Mac waiting for her and the hairs on the back of her neck raised. "What's up?" She asked.

Big Mac tilted his head toward the backdoor and headed outside, Applejack replaced the pail, grabbed her hat and followed. Applebloom should be fine with Granny, she figured as she pulled the stetson into it's familiar place on her head.

"You comin' with me to Sugarcube Corner?" Applejack asked, afraid of his answer. She hoped her brother hadn't planned to talk to her about her recent behavior.

"Yup," he replied and started a lazy trot into town. Applejack swallowed hard, but followed.

Dusk cast long shadows over everything and a cool breeze kept their walk pleasant. AJ faced the setting sun, its glow flaring over their orchards, basking her home in yellow and orange hues. She had been so preoccupied right up until that moment, but somehow the scenery just melted it all away. Big Mac never spoke, only casting the occasional glance his sister's way to see how she was doing. Before she knew it, she and Bic Mac were in front of Sugarcube Corner. A tension behind her eyes and chest faded, one she hadn't noticed she carried until it was gone.

"Thanks fer walkin' with me," Applejack said as she rapped on the door, "Ah think ah needed some company."

"Yup," Bic Mac replied.

The door burst open in a shower of confetti and screams of surprise. Applejack took a few steps back from the shocking display and bumped into Bic Mac, who nudged her back towards the door. Pinkie lifted her easily and dragged her inside before she could protest.

"You knew 'bout this?" Applejack yelled at her brother, "Mah own kin set me up?"

"Yup," Bic Mac replied smugly right before the door closed and Applejack was trapped inside.

The interior of Sugarcube Corner was completely renovated much to AJ's surprise, decorations and childishly drawn pictures of herself masked the fact that it was a bakery. She felt more hooves on her suddenly and caught glimpses of her friends, including Rainbow, as they carried her upstairs. She protested then yelped when she felt herself being tossed through the air, only to land on a pile of pillows. Amidst her confusion and thrashing, her friends picked up pillows and began pelting her and each other. Applejack's protests soon turned into laughter and cheers.

During the resulting pillow war, Rarity and Fluttershy had joined her side against Pinkie, Twilight and Rainbow, and pillow forts had been crudely constructed around Pinkie's living room. A stalemate ensued for many tiring minutes.

"We ain't gettin' nowhere with Twilight's defensive," whispered Applejack to her team as a pillow flew over their heads, "We need a plan."

"You are right," Rarity huffed, her hair was a mess and she had put up a sweat, but didn't seem to care. This was war.

"I'm fine with hiding here until it's over," offered the as-of-yet-untouched Fluttershy and her friends both raised an eyebrow at her.

"Rares, why don't ya take Flutters with you on the left flank and ah'll go on the right," suggested Applejack, "Try to keep Twilight focused on ya so ah can take 'er out. Once their magic is down, the rest should be easy pickin's." Rarity nodded.

"See you later!" Rarity whispered back and grabbed a hold of a reluctant Fluttershy, who whimpered softly.

Once her team was in position, AJ gave the signal and a barrage of pillows launched against Twilight's magical pillow shield. As she hopped over her own fort, she saw Pinkie returning fire and Fluttershy went down. She had to act fast, luckily nopony had noticed her yet. With pillow in mouth and face set in confident determination, Applejack leaped behind enemy lines on their right flank, right on top of Rainbow Dash and knocked the Pegasus onto her back.

Applejack hesitated, frozen in place at the sight of Rainbow beneath her, who stuttered her name as she clutched a pillow to her chest. Rarity shouted a warning from the other side of the room just before Applejack was blindsided by a magically tossed pillow to the head.

"Applejack!" Rarity yelled as she feebly defended herself against Twilight and Pinkie's all out attack. Within moments she was overrun and her last stand was marked by a pile of pillows. "I surrender!" Came her muffled voice from the pile.

"I do too!" Fluttershy said sheepishly from her retreat back to their fort.

"I guess y'all won," Applejack sighed, but grinned at Twilight and Pinkie's celebratory cheers. She looked down to Rainbow, who hadn't dared move, and extended a hoof to help her up. Rainbow accepted it.

"AJ? Uh... Thanks," Rainbow said quietly.

"Yep," Applejack replied.

"Let's have cake!" Pinkie said suddenly and bounced downstairs. A pink aura surrounded all the pillows in the room and neatly tucked them all into a corner, making the room seem far larger than before. Applejack suddenly noticed the rest of the decorations upstairs and the balloons caught her eye.

"Are you feeling better, Applejack?" Twilight asked politely as she magically set the table and started the turntable.

"Y'all're doin' this to cheer me up?" Applejack asked incredulously over the familiar party music.

"But of course, Darling," Rarity replied as she levitated a brush through her hair, "Is it working?" Applejack chuckled and smiled.

"Yup," Applejack answered, "Thanks." Pinkie returned with the cake and set it on the table before her. It was in the shape of a pony, the mane and tail portions were topped with yellow frosting and crab apples were used as a cutie mark.

"It's apple crumble cake!" Pinkie announced and started cutting slices and serving them, giving Applejack the first piece.

"Looks like ya went all out again, Pinkie, thanks!" Applejack took a hearty bite.

"You know it!"

After cake, soda and some light conversation, Pinkie broke out the party games. The sounds of raucous laughter and excitement could be heard several blocks away until it grew very late in Ponyville. As they wrapped up their latest game, Twilight nonchalantly walked over to whisper in Rainbow's ear.

"How you holding up?" Twilight made as if she were just cleaning up.

"Dreading the after-party," Rainbow rubbed her shins together and stole a glance at Applejack, "But I think this is helping."

"C'mon Rainbow, I thought you were fearless," Twilight gave a light jab into Rainbow's side.

"Against a hydra or something sure-"

"I'm just teasing you, relax, you'll do fine," Twilight giggled and casually headed away to grab a drink.

"Glad somepony thinks so," Rainbow muttered, but her ears perked up when she caught Applejack's voice across the room.

"It was a great party, Pinkie, and ah appreciate you lookin' out fer me," Applejack said earnestly, "Ah'd better get goin' though, busy mornin' 'n all." Rainbow bit her lip.

"Awww," Whined Pinkie and gave Applejack a whimpering pout, "Can't we play just one more game?"

"Ah dunno..." Applejack rubbed the back of her head with a hoof and averted her gaze, it was awful hard to refuse Pinkie's pouting sometimes.

"It's just one more game," said Rainbow hopefully from across the room, "You can stay, right?"

"Oh, but I must agree with Applejack," Rarity replied instead, "It is getting quite late and some of us have work tomorrow."

"We could play a quick one, then call it a night," Twilight countered and pointedly looked at Rarity, who scrunched her brow, but only for a moment.

"Well, I suppose one last quick game wouldn't hurt," Rarity suddenly changed her tune and turned to face Applejack, "What do you say?"

"Ah guess so..." Applejack sighed in resignation, "So what're we playin'?"

"Oh! Oh! We haven't played one yet!" Pinkie bounced in excitement, "Truth or dare!" Groans erupted from the room and Rainbow swallowed hard.

"Hey, y'all wanted rain," Applejack sat in the middle of the room, "Don't complain when its a flood."

Rarity shared a concerned look with Twilight, then laughed nervously.

"Yes, well, shall I begin?" Rarity laid down gracefully next to Applejack and cleared her throat, "Twilight? Truth or dare."

"Hm, Truth." Twilight sat across from them, the rest slowly formed the circle.

"Do you have a crush on anyone, dear?" Rarity batted her eyelashes.

"For the last time, Rarity, no," Twilight squinted at her.

"Applejack?" Rarity asked.

"She ain't lyin'."

"Phooey," Rarity pouted, "I still say you're in denial with that Sentry fellow. You'd make such-"

"Moving on," Twilight interrupted, "Uh... Fluttershy, truth or dare." An 'Eep!' followed.

"Um... truth," Fluttershy squeaked, this was her least favorite game, and she shook in anticipation of her question.

"Have you ever done anything bad that we don't know about?" Twilight shrugged.

"Oh gosh, Dare." Fluttershy said quickly, eliciting surprised stares from the others.

"Okay," Twilight shelved that one for later, "How about you sing for us again?"

"Oh that would just be delightful," Rarity commented and sat up, Applejack and Pinkie agreed.

"Um, I'd like to go back to truth," whispered Fluttershy.

"Nuh-uh," Twilight shook her head, "No breaking the rules, you gotta sing." Fluttershy whimpered, but took a deep breath to steady her nerves. Once a silent moment had passed, she cleared her throat and began to softly sing.

When the world is too much to handle,

And I've had all I can take,

I retreat from the latest scandal,

Before I get a headache.

Under the great Weeping Willow tree,

Where no one can bother me,

Under the safe Weeping Willow tree,

I find my sanctuary.

Until the commotion starts to din,

I'll be safe behind the leaves,

Once I'm ready to take it all in,

I'll set forth from my reprieves.

Under the great Weeping Willow tree,

Where no one can bother me,

Under the safe Weeping Willow tree,

I find my sanctuary.

"My goodness, that was simply marvelous, darling!" Rarity beamed. Hooves clapped excitedly around the circle as Fluttershy did her best to hide her embarrassed smile behind her hair. "Maybe we should play this game more often if we can get performances like that!"

"Oh, please no, Rarity, once is enough," begged Fluttershy. Rarity gave her an appraising look and hummed.

"We'll see about that," Rarity threatened, then relented, "However, it is your turn to choose." Fluttershy sucked in her lips and glanced about her friends. Rarity and Twilight had already gone, Applejack looked tired and apathetic, Rainbow shook in her seat and avoided eye contact. Finally, Pinkie pouted at her.

"Um, Pinkie?" Fluttershy asked quietly.

"Yes!" Pinkie bounced off the floor, her hooves outstretched in victory, then she planted them firmly onto the floor and gave Fluttershy a daring face. "Dare me."

"Oh... um... are you-"

"Dare me!" Pinkie shouted into the air, taking all her of friends aback.

"A-Alright... I dare you to..." Fluttershy thought a moment, "play a game of Shh with me." Pinkie gasped slowly, emitting a sound not unlike an inward scream.

"That's, just, evil," Pinkie squinted at her, "I-love-it! Ready-set-go!"

Pinkie scrunched her face and shook, beads of sweat already forming around her forehead within mere seconds of starting the dare, yet she remained mute. Meanwhile, Fluttershy was momentarily surprised, but soon relaxed in the silence. The remaining party-goers stared wide-eyed at Pinkie, anticipating some form of explosion at any moment, like watching a balloon slowly filling with too much water.

Several minutes came and went while Fluttershy remained effortlessly motionless. Pinkie, however, changed expression every few seconds, from concentration to consternation, deadpan to desperate, calm to crazy. Just as it appeared Pinkie was going to lose her mind, Fluttershy spoke.

"That was nice."

The room fell back into silence as everypony looked at Fluttershy in confusion.

"Fluttershy, you spoke," Twilight stated the obvious.

"Yes, she looked like she was getting uncomfortable," Fluttershy gave Pinkie an apologetic look, "I only dared you to play, you didn't have to win."

"It was a dare, silly," Pinkie giggled, "I had to win!" Pinkie suddenly stopped giggling and glared at Fluttershy, "Or else." Fluttershy crumpled slowly to the floor under the intense stare. "Heehee!" Pinkie bounced back to her cheerful self, "Now, who to choose, hmm." She scratched her chin with a hoof and darted her eyes between the nonchalant Applejack, and the skittish Rainbow Dash.

"Rainbow!" Pinkie announced with a flourish, "Truth or dare?" Rainbow swallowed, convinced the lump in her throat was her heart.

"Truth...?" Rainbow asked as if unsure.

"Why'd you wanna cancel the party tonight?" Pinkie cocked her head to the side. Applejack raised an eyebrow at Rainbow from across the circle. Rainbow's chest burned with fright and she felt AJ's eyes on her. She swallowed again, her throat dry.

"Maybe we-" Twilight started.

"No breakin' the rules, Twi, like you said. Answer the question, Rainbow," Applejack interrupted authoritatively.

A heavy silence fell and Rainbow lowered her head, "Dare," She whispered.

"Figured," Applejack stood and headed for the stairs, "I'm out." She walked past Rainbow, who kept her head low.

"Applejack, wait!" Rarity and Twilight called out simultaneously and hastily got to their hooves. Pinkie and Fluttershy grew worried expressions and merely observed in confusion.

"Nope, thanks for the party, Pinkie," Applejack started down the steps and didn't even face them, "Have a good night y'all." She disappeared from view and a moment later, they heard the front door open and slam shut.

"I'll go speak with her," Rarity offered and started towards the staircase, but Rainbow was already up and extending her wings. Rarity paused mid stride as Rainbow glided down the steps and out of view. Downstairs the door opened again and closed quietly.

"Was... Was it something I said?" Pinkie asked, looking pitifully sad behind her loose hair. Rarity shot her an exasperated look but it soon faded, replaced with her own worries.

"It's not your fault, Pinkie," Twilight approached Pinkie and wrapped a comforting leg around her, "You didn't know... Rainbow and Applejack just need to have a little talk, that's all..."

Meanwhile, Rainbow inspected the hoof-prints on the path leading to Sweet Apple Acres briefly as she soared silently next to them. They were far apart, and dug deep into the dirt. She flapped a few times to gain some altitude and easily spotted Applejack at full gallop under the moon's light. She clenched her teeth to keep them from chattering from the cold, or her nerves, then steeled herself. In a sudden burst, she landed directly in Applejack's way, sending plumes of dirt and dust aside. Applejack came skidding to a halt in front of Rainbow, who slowly stood upright, jaw set and face hard.

"Git outta the way, Rainbow!" Applejack loudly and sharply pronounced each syllable, her eyes glared piercingly under the brim of her hat and her nose crinkled around her eyes, "You've made yer intentions clear and ah don't want nuthin' to do with you!" Rainbow's jaw muscles flexed, but she didn't back down.

"I was waiting for the right time, AJ, I couldn't-" Rainbow started.

"-Have just said you weren't int'rested from the get go." Applejack snorted and walked through Rainbow's space, shoving the lighter Pegasus aside, "Ah get it, thanks fer gettin' mah hopes up." She resumed her gallop home.

"Applejack! That's not it! I-I..." Rainbow called out after her and galloped after her.

"Go 'way, Rainbow! How many times ah gotta tell you to leave me alone! Ah never wanna see you again!" Applejack yelled back at her, though her words wavered in the last sentence.

Rainbow slowed, then stopped and watched Applejack go with her mouth hung open. Her eyes stung and tears started to form at the edges a moment before she shut them and her jaw tightly. With a pained expression she lowered her head, yet when she raised it a moment later and opened her eyes, her expression was full of anger.

Rainbow launched into the air with a powerful thrust of her wings and once more landed directly in Applejack's way, who came to an abrupt stop inches away.

"Rainbow, ah swear ah'll-" Applejack yelled, her face full of rage, but was cut short when Rainbow forcefully pressed her lips and body against hers. They reared onto their hind legs, then crashed onto the grass beside the dirt path. Taken by surprise, Applejack laid there incredulously a moment before her anger returned. She pushed Rainbow up and off of her enough to break the kiss. "What in the hay is the matter with you?"

"You!" Rainbow yelled, her face scrunched in frustration, "I can't stop thinking about you, but every time I wanted to tell you how I feel, I got all stupid and my chest hurt. I was trying to find the right time, the right way to tell you... that's what tonight was supposed to be..." Rainbow swallowed past the lump in her throat, "...Tonight I was going to tell you that I love you."

Applejack stared wide-eyed at Rainbow, her eyes darting back and forth between Rainbow's steadfast and sincere gaze. AJ closed her eyes slowly and tilted her head back.

"Aw, horse-apples, ah went an' mucked it up like a dirty pig in a fresh bath..." Applejack whispered, then scrunched her face and looked to Rainbow again, "Why did you wanna cancel the party then?"

"I-I... didn't want everypony else to be there when I told you, but Twi convinced me to tell you after the party," Rainbow smirked and looked away.

"So Twi knows about us?"

"Eh-heh... uh... yeah." Rainbow winced and gave an apologetic smile, "I kinda needed to talk to somepony..."

"S'alright, sugarcube..." Applejack chuckled, "Ah needed to too, Rares knows all 'bout it."

"Oh... great." Rainbow muttered sarcastically.

"Don't fret now," Applejack brushed her muzzle against Rainbow's softly, "Everypony'll know eventually, ah suppose."

"Hey AJ?" Rainbow whispered, her eyes half lidded now from the nuzzling. Applejack mm-hmm'ed. "Since I told you the truth, it's your turn for truth or dare."

"Ah suppose it is..." Applejack replied, "Dare, since ah always tell ya the truth anyhow."

"I dare you to kiss me." Rainbow grinned hopefully. AJ raised an eyebrow and returned the grin.

"Well ah ain't backin' down from a dare like that." replied Applejack, and brought her lips against Rainbow's as she pulled her closer.

Rainbow breathed in deeply through her nose, the feeling of Applejack's lips and hooves on her brought her so much needed comfort. She breathed out slowly, savoring everything about the intense experience that was so much better than her dream. Everything else melted away. After a minute, Rainbow broke the kiss and pressed her muzzle into the side of Applejack's neck. She took several deep breaths to get some needed air, and to calm her racing heart.

"Y'alright, Sugar?" Applejack whispered in her ear, a hint of teasing in her voice. Rainbow took another few gasps, soaking in Applejack's scent.

"I am now... you?"

"Same here..." AJ sighed and looked at the night sky, "Sorry ah acted the way ah did, ah was just so scared of your answer and then ah figured you were tryin' to avoid me. Then ah assumed the worst..."

"It's okay, AJ." Rainbow nuzzled her, "I was kind of avoiding you until I knew how I felt, then I didn't know what to do or say. I was waiting for the right time to tell you, and I messed that up, I'm sorry... Turns out I'm pretty bad at this stuff."

"You and me both, Sugar." Applejack squeezed her in a hug and they both chuckled, Rainbow instantly relaxed in her hooves. "Oh shoot, ah was supposed to grab a bag of flour from Pinkie."

"I'll get it. You go sleep, you looked ready to pass out an hour ago." Rainbow grunted as she got to her hooves.

"Ya noticed, huh?" AJ chuckled nervously, "Are ya sure?"

"Yeah, I woke up at like, noon. Besides, I owe ya one for not being straight with you tonight..." Rainbow helped her friend up and they shared another nuzzle.

"Tell 'em ah'm sorry I tore outta there like a bull at the gate?" Applejack asked meekly.

"You got it. I should probably go tell them the good news too, huh?" Rainbow smirked, her heart felt light and raced a little at the thought.

"Yup." AJ returned a smile and gave her special somepony a goodnight kiss on the cheek, "Goodnight, Rainbow. Ah'll see you tomorrow?" Rainbow nodded and flashed a smile.

"You can bet on it."

The Bet

A cool breeze swept over a peaceful ponyville, refreshing the few ponies out under the mid afternoon sun. Life had returned to normal a few months since Tirek's escape and ponies still occasionally admired the new crystal edifice. On the edge of town leading to Sweet Apple Acres, Ponyville Elementary rang its bell the last time before summer break, signaling that for better or worse the fillies and colts were free until fall.

Scootaloo eagerly hopped down the steps into the schoolyard and landed on her scooter, wishing her friends a good evening as she sped away. Tomorrow they would meet at the clubhouse for more crusading, leaving her almost free for the rest of the day. As she neared the school's fence gate, she recognized somepony placing flyers on the school's bulletin board and skidded to a halt.

"Hi, Miss Mane," greeted Scootaloo as she approached, "Is the social starting soon?"

"Hey there, Scootaloo," Candy Mane replied, smiling despite the nails in her mouth. She promptly plucked one from her lips, lined it up to a corner of her flier, then stamped it into place with a hoof. "It sure is, this weekend at Sweet Apple Acres again. Can I count you in this year?"

"Um..." Scootaloo rubbed her shins together, "Does an honorary sister count as a sister?"

"Sure does!" Candy Mane beamed as she stamped another nail, "I can be your big sister this year if you'd like."

"Oh! Thanks for the offer, but I have someone in mind already." Scootaloo's wings buzzed and lifted her from her scooter slightly.

"Well, you'd better go ask her then," Candy Mane chuckled and tilted her head over to Ponyville, "Miss Dash was asleep above the bowling alley last I saw her, she might've moved since then though."

"Thanks!" Scootaloo shouted and vaulted onto her scooter. Chores gotta wait, she thought, this is more important. Behind her, Candy Mane waved her goodbye before greeting the next group of fillies, fliers in hoof.

* * * * *

"Rainbow Dash!" A familiar voice called out her name, then again, before she woke up.

"Nnnnng-what?" mumbled Rainbow Dash as she bundled up under cloud covers. An exposed hind leg refused to find enough room in the warmth. "I'm sleeping."

"Will you be my big sister for the social?" The strained voice asked, a hint of desperation or hope included with it.

"Scootaloo?" Rainbow peered upside down at the voice and confirmed the orange and purple blur to be the filly. She yawned and slid off of the cloud headfirst, plummeting into a dive. Moments before she slammed into the ground, she flared her wings and straightened out in a smooth curve. Her hooves gracefully skimmed the dirt a second before she landed in a trot up to Scootaloo, her wings now tucked away.

"That was awesome!" Scootaloo bounced a few times, "You have to show me that!" Rainbow winced.

"Sure thing," Rainbow weakly grinned as she rubbed a hoof to her eyes, "But what social are we talkin' about?"

"The Sisterhooves Social!" cheered Scootaloo and Rainbow winced again. "I asked Candy Mane and you don't have to be real sisters to join, so I thought we should compete!"

"Compete, huh?" said Rainbow, suddenly awake, "That sounds like fun, when is it?"

"This weekend, please tell me you can come," Scootaloo pouted.

"Heh," Rainbow chuckled and messed up the filly's hair, "I'll come, but we'd better practice if we're gonna win this thing."

"Yes!" Scootaloo bounced again, "I can start after chores and dinner!"

"Awesome," Rainbow nodded once and a smirk creeped up on her, "Fuel up and report back to me for training!"

"Ma'am, yes Ma'am!" Scootaloo saluted and rushed off on her scooter.

Rainbow watched her go a moment and sighed happily. The mention of food from earlier reminded her that she hadn't eaten in a while, so she got her bearings and headed further into Ponyville for much needed hayburger.

* * * * *

The morning of the social came by quickly and she had made the training intense, probably more so than necessary for a silly race, but Rainbow was confident that she and Scootaloo had a shot at winning it. That morning had been blessed with dew, which still beaded along the grass at the edges of the path they took to the farm. It made her thirsty, yet the walk was that much more enjoyable.

"Thanks for being my big sister," said Scootaloo suddenly and sheepishly. "It really means a lot to me."

"No problem, kiddo," Rainbow replied softly and draped a wing over the filly as they walked, "It's pretty awesome having you as a little sister."

"Really?"

"Yeah," Rainbow smiled at her, "No matter how we do today, I'm proud of you."

"Thanks," Scootaloo blushed and returned an embarrassed smile.

They continued walking in silence until they reached the crowd that had gathered at the edge of the social grounds. Sisters had lined up for signup booths already, those that had finished entering made small talk by the wooden fences that outlined the different event grounds. Rainbow also noted the number of pigs and vegetables other ponies brought with them.

"Guess there's more than just the race, huh?" Rainbow absentmindedly commented as she surveyed the booth banners.

"You betcha, friend!" Applejack shouted joyfully as she and Applebloom trotted up to Rainbow and Scootaloo. "Or should ah say... foe?" Applejack threatened Rainbow with a fierce look. She knew it was all she needed to do to get a rise out of Rainbow.

"This may be your home turf, AJ." Rainbow bared her teeth mischievously, "But we'll give you a run for your money, won't we Scootaloo?"

"Yeah!" Scootaloo mimicked Rainbow's confidence, and Applebloom returned it right back.

"That so?" Applejack feigned a measuring look at Rainbow, "Y'all prepared to put your bits where your muzzle is?"

"A bet?" Rainbow bristled with excitement, and butted her forehead against her rival's, "Name it."

"If ya lose, ya gotta help me with applebuckin' season this year." Applejack poked Rainbow's chest with a hoof, "Could use another pair a' legs such's yours, give 'em a real workout fer once."

"Hah! A few days hard labor is nothin'," Rainbow taunted. I would've helped if you had just asked, she thought, safe bet. "Now if-"

"Hello, everypony!" Rarity interrupted as she sauntered up to them, getting surprised looks from everypony, "Oh my apologies, were you arguing again?" Sweetie Belle swept past Rarity and bounced over to hug her friends.

"Rarity? What are you doing here?" Rainbow questioned, clearly exasperated.

"Why, I am merely upholding tradition," Rarity humphed and cocked her head back in contempt, "Besides, you have been to this social fewer times than I."

"I've had a sister for less than a year," Rainbow retorted, "How long have you and Sweetie Belle been-"

"Semantics!" Rarity harshly interrupted again.

"Semanti-what?"

"Regardless," Rarity stated coolly as she regained her composure, "I'm here for apple pie, as it were."

"...What?" Rainbow scrunched her face.

"Never mind her," Applejack chuckled but gave Rarity a wink, "What're yer terms, Rainbow?"

"Hmm..." Rainbow pondered a moment, then glanced at Rarity. "I know. If you lose, you have to wear a Sunday dress for applebuck season!"

"What?" Applejack exclaimed as sweat beaded under her stetson, "A-Ah...Ahright, but to make things fair 'n all, I say you should wear one too if you lose."

"You're on!" Rainbow replied hastily, she'd never seen Applejack quite caught off guard.

"Wonderful!" Rarity squealed, and broke their glare-off once more, "I can fashion something suitable, something light and airy, something that won't catch while you do your... farm... thingie." She waved her limp hoof at the last word, to which Applejack frowned.

"Grown-ups sure are weird," Applebloom stated suddenly, and her friends nodded their consent.

"C'mon you, let's get back in line." Applejack nuzzled Applebloom in the direction she wanted her to go and she complied, but Applejack stopped a few steps away and turned back to Rainbow. "Honestly though, it's great t'see ya both here, thanks fer comin'."

"Yeah, you bet," replied Rainbow earnestly.

"Ah thought ah just did," Applejack chuckled and continued on her way.

"It truly is admirable of you to come with Scootaloo," said Rarity under her breath to Rainbow, "But that won't make your dress any less frilly." With that she trotted elegantly away; Sweetie Belle accompanied her to the back of the line a moment later.

Wait a sec... Rainbow gulped hard as a thought crossed her mind. Rarity, the biggest gossip in town, is going to make the girliest dress ever. Why did I agree to this so quickly? I should have stuck with AJ's original terms! Everyone in Ponyville will come to see me wearing a dress! I'll be humilia-

"Rainbow, you okay?" Scootaloo asked as she nuzzled Rainbow's foreleg, "You don't look so good, and your eye keeps twitching." Rainbow snapped out of her panic and leaned down to Scootaloo's level.

"I'm good." Rainbow lied and gave her a winning smile, "'Cause I know we're gonna win this thing!" Please Celestia let us win.

"Yeah!" Scootaloo pumped her hoof, instantly excited and eager at her mentor's words.

The race was scheduled as the last event of the day, so Rainbow and Scootaloo watched what the rest of the social had to offer; Competitive apple pie eating, bobbing for apples, mud pit Tug o' War, 6 legged racing, barrel racing, vegetable growing, pig beauty contest and the obstacle race itself.

Rainbow noticed that Applejack and Applebloom competed in nearly all of the events, and had done very well, they had even won first in the barrel race. This unnerved her a bit, how well Applejack maneuvered at high speed over rough terrain, but she held fast to mental pictures of a dress laden AJ. This seemed to help.

Suddenly, Applejack picked her out of the crowd and their eyes locked. Rainbow could have sworn that AJ wiggled her eyebrows under the shadow of the hat she wore, and she definitely strutted across the grounds. The crowd cheered again when AJ and AB made a grand bow before they received their ribbons. Once ponies started dispersing, the winners made their way over to the bleachers.

"Like what ya saw, RD?" Applejack flaunted a little as she walked by, her blue ribbon displayed prominently.

"Yeah, yeah." Rainbow rolled her eyes. "You've got nothing on me, AJ."

"Sure, Sugarcube," Applejack chuckled and continued on her way, "Ah'll let Rarity know t'get started on yer dress early. Say Applebloom, how many times we win the big race, ya reckon?"

"Gotta be five, maybe six." replied Applebloom.

"Sounds 'bout right." Applejack tipped her hat, "Later RD, Scoots."

"Later! Good luck!" Scootaloo replied and waved innocently.

With but a few sentences from AJ, Rainbow felt like she had been punched in the gut. I hadn't thought of that, Rainbow mulled, she's got the experience. Darn it, I haven't even done the race before! There's no chance we're gonna win!

The call to assemble for the obstacle race was made over the loudspeaker, and instantly Rainbow's coat bristled on end at the sudden rush she felt. It was always that way with her and she normally loved it; the nervous-citement, the adrenaline and especially the fame afterwards. That day though, fear had firmly settled in the pit of her stomach.

No! Rainbow gritted her teeth, I will not lose to Applejack, not today! I will see her in a dress, I swear it!

"C'mon, Scoots!" Rainbow stood defiantly, "It's go time!"

"Alright!" Scootaloo hopped off the bleachers, her legs wobbled as she stood up straight.

"Y-You okay?"

"Yeah," Scootaloo replied, her voice and body jittered as she spoke. "Just a little nervous about the race."

"Heh," Rainbow chuckled in relief, "Listen Scootaloo, it's okay to be nervous, I am too to be honest."

"Really?"

"Of course," stated Rainbow easily, and put a foreleg around Scootaloo to help her along, "I always feel this way before I compete, especially against A-" She cleared her throat, "Uh, Point is, you have to use it to your advantage, don't let it take you over. Put that nervousness into action."

"Don't let it take you over," Scootaloo quoted her, "Put it into action. Got it."

Rainbow found that her words helped, and she felt better too, briefly. That changed when they reached the obstacle course.

Sisters had paired up before the starting line and stretched limbs or whispered game plans to one another. Spectators slowly filled the bleachers surrounding the large ring of the obstacle course. Once everypony was settled at the start line and in their seats, Granny Smith announced the annual race was about to begin, and listed off the teams that competed for the grand prize this year: A barrel of apple cider.

"Remember your training Scoots." Rainbow whispered, "Let's do our best." Scootaloo nodded her consent and inched closer to the start line. Rainbow smiled outwardly, and prayed silently to Celestia.

The countdown had begun and yanked Rainbow back into the moment; her mind cleared as she mentally ran through the course one last time before Granny Smith yelled 'Go!'

Like a rocket they took off and Rainbow could tell she already had the lead. She blocked out all the other racers around her and listened for Scootaloo's small hoofbeats, which trailed just behind her and to the right. In a moment they'd reach the first obstacle: the mud pit. She cleared it easily, then waited just on the other side, a hoof stretched over the pit.

Scootaloo jumped a moment later and reached for Rainbow's hoof with everything she had. They connected, barely. Rainbow used the momentum and tossed the filly forward, just like they had practiced. Doing good so far, Rainbow thought, just keep it together!

A sudden thud to Rainbow's side distracted her. Time slowed as she stole a sidelong glance at Applejack, who had her younger sister attached to her tail for the jump. As she dipped her head, AJ tossed Applebloom ahead as well. AJ totally copied our move, Rainbow snorted, I can't believe it!

"Can't come up with your own tricks, hey, AJ?" Rainbow teased as they sprinted neck and neck, soon they'd close the gap with their younger sisters.

"Ah'm no one trick pony, but a good move's a good move," Applejack admitted, "Can't have ya beatin' me on mah own turf, suger."

In the remainder of the obstacles, Rainbow and Scootaloo had eked out a marginal lead over the Apple sisters. Rainbow's heart pounded in her chest, the adrenaline surged her towards victory. Scootaloo's hoofbeats barely kept up with her, but they were still there. She swelled with pride for the little filly, they were going to win it!

Hooves thundered dangerously close behind her as they completed the last turn, and Rainbow knew it was Applejack. Nothing laid before them but loose soil to the finish line. So it comes down to a sprint, Rainbow thought as she hoofed it like mad, don't let me down Scoots!

With just a few gallops to victory, Rainbow heard the hoof-falls of her strongest competitor fall in line next to hers. Her resolve wavered; she thought of herself in a pink polka-dotted dress lined with white lace. She heard the other ponies' laughter in her mind, Rarity's shrill giggling somewhere in their midst. She closed her eyes to block it out, but AJ's smug face was all she saw. Finally, her focus destroyed, she turned her head.

Applejack was looking straight at her, with the same smug face.

An ankle twisted from a misplaced hoof and Rainbow fell chin-first into the dirt, which flew up in a cloud around her. She painfully rolled head over hooves a few times, carried by her momentum, before she felt herself slam to a halt. She tried to move, but it felt like her limbs were weighed down or entangled with each other. She blindly fought and fought in the chocking cloud, but she could not free herself.

Suddenly, Rainbow heard the crowd cheer over sounds of the dirt and rocks that fell around her. Her name was called once by somepony before the loudspeaker pierced the air with feedback.

"The winner is... The Belle sisters!" came Granny's shakey voice over the cheering crowd.

Rainbow cursed silently and waited for the dust to settle around her, though she wished she could hide in it forever. The heavy scent of sweat tickled her nose and as feeling replaced pain in her extremities, she felt something warm and solid stir against her. Wait a sec, the Belle sisters?

Rainbow opened her eyes slowly to find she was pressed against Applejack, with her head nestled in the crook of AJ's throat. She tried to move but their legs were still entwined. Exhausted, she gave up. Apparently, AJ had reached the same conclusion. A good minute passed while Rainbow listened to the sounds of the crowd, her own panting and heartbeats, as well as AJ's.

"You okay, guys?" Scootaloo suddenly asked from somewhere behind them, "You look pretty messed up."

"I'm alright, just hurt my pride," Rainbow groaned as she pulled her legs free and rolled away from Applejack, "AJ?"

"Ah'm good," replied Applejack, her tone flat as she sat.

"Sorry, Scoots," Rainbow said weakly as she stood and patted herself off, "I screwed up."

"It's okay..." Scootaloo sighed and lowered her head, Applebloom doing the same.

"Hey." Applejack grabbed her hat and brushed it off, she had not bothered to do the same to her coat, "Did you girls have fun?"

"Yeah." Applebloom and Scootaloo admitted.

"Why don't ya go see yer fellow crusader, she looks like she needs a coupla friends to celebrate with," Applejack offered and put a hoof around Rainbow, tightly, "Rainbow 'n ah need a moment to recover."

"Yeah!" They said in unison and dashed off, in higher spirits. A moment passed in silence between them, dreadful silence, before Applejack said low under her breath.

"Rainbow, tell me the truth now." Applejack kept her grip tight on her captive. She smiled, but her eyes were hard. Rainbow sweated profusely. "Did y'all do that on purpose t'get outta the bet?"

"A-Applejack, I-I swear to Celestia," Rainbow stammered, then swallowed hard, "I was going to win until you distracted me with that stupid look you gave me. It's your fault that I tripped, really."

"Rainbow..." Applejack growled and her grip tightened, painfully now.

"Haha... Ow." Rainbow winced out a tear but held her smile, "I'm just being honest! Hey, at least neither of us have to wear a dress now, right?"

"Ooooh no!" Rarity interjected as she pranced victoriously up to them, a blue ribbon proudly adorned her coat. She stopped short once she noticed how dirty and sweaty they still were. "Ahem! If I do recall correctly, which I most certainly do, your bet was that if you lost, you were to wear a dress. Since you both have lost, to me, a fact I simply must point out, you both must wear a dress!"

"WHAT?!"