New Life, Old Ways

Waking up later then Applejack Rainbow had to get back to work sorting the apples.  Applejack was already in town selling apples so Rainbow decided to skip breakfast and eat a few of the best apples she could find while sorting.  This time she finished quickly by picking the rotten ones first then baling the good ones into the barn.  Finishing by 9am she asked Big Mac what was next on her list.  With a shrug he led her to a broken wagon and pointed to the back.  Looking inside it had several spare parts and replacements.

"I have to fix this thing?"

"Yup."

"Are you pranking me again?  I'm gonna finish this and find out you're throwing it away tomorrow?"

"Nope.  Need it for tradin' apples to another town."  With that he turned and walked away to begin another set of his chores.

I better not be getting pranked again.  I'll, I'll, I don't know yet.  But, it he won't like it.

Grabbing a toolbox and a spare wheel she went to work replacing the wheels.  After an hour she had replaced the wheels and was feeling tired and a cramp in her back.  I'm gonna take a five.  I think this' gonna be okay til I get back.  Flying to the sky she landed on a cloud to relax and take a short nap.

"Hey.  Hey! Wake up Rainbow Dash."

"Huh? What do you want, I'm taking a break," she said rolling her back to the other Pegasus.

"I have a job to do and you're laying on my cloud."

"Your cloud?" She sat up and looked into the mares face with a grimace before softening her expression.   "Yeah, I guess it is.  Sorry, I'm not in the know anymore for the weather.  I'll just go find another."

"That's not a good idea Rainbow Dash.  Diamond isn't in a good place since you told him off.  If he were able to he'd have you banished from the city skies."

"That plot-hole can't take a joke?  So what?  He can't stop me from sleeping on a cloud," she stated defiantly.

"Actually, we're under orders to clear any cloud you're on if you don't put in an official request at the office."

"A formal request? What the flock is wrong with him?"

"When you told him off, Rainbow Dash, we laughed at him until her stormed back into his office.  Then he posted a letter saying anyone aiding you in your abuse of cloud time will have their pay docked or their jobs.  We can't risk that, you know how much we're paid to begin with.  Most of us are just making it by without having to get a second job and this towns pretty small.  Too small for a dozen more Pegasus to find work so quickly."

Looking at the mare before her Rainbow sighed then hovered above the cloud.  "I'm sorry.  I'm sorry I put you all into such a bad place.  I hope I can make it better, maybe if I apologize to Diamond he'll relax on everypony."

"Wow, the great Rainbow Dash apologizing?  What happened to you over the last week?  Whatever it is keep doing it.  I've gotta get back to work but, I hope you're doing well and good luck in the future."  With that the other mare grabbed and pushed the cloud away, leaving Rainbow hovering mid air in thought.

What I've been doing for the past week?  That'd be Applejack.  With a snicker she decided she had a minute to spare and flew to the library.  Throwing a few rocks at the door Spike answered.  "H-hello?  Oh, Rainbow.  Why are you so far back?"

"I need to setup a meeting between me, Twilight and Applejack tonight at 5, can you set it up, please?"

"Uh, yeah.  Did you want to see Twilight?  She's right over-"

"No, I don't think it's a good idea for us to alone in the same room yet."

"But, I'm here Rainbow," Spike said looking annoyed.

"And you'll leave the minute she says.  So, I'll just get back to work.  See you at 5."  Flying away before he could respond she flew back to the farm to repair the wagon some more.

"Who was that, Spike?"

"Rainbow Dash, she wants a meeting between you and Applejack and her tonight at 5."

"What?  Why? What did you tell her?"

"Nothing, Twilight.  She told me to set it up then left.  Do you think I should?"

"I don't see why not, just make sure you're quick to tell Applejack, I need you to help make a list of questions to ask if I need to."

With a groan Spike smacked his face with his hand then jogged out the door to tell Applejack.

"Evening AJ. How was your sleep?" Rainbow asked as she waited outside the library.

"It was okay.  Spent to much time tossin' and turning. When I did sleep Ah had a dream Ah was flying with you over the lake.  It was nice. "

"I had the same dream, AJ. What do you think it mean?   Is Luna pranking is?

"Sugarplum, I don't think she works like that.  Besides, why'd ya call me here?  Ya did call me here right?"

"Yeah I did.  I think we need Twilights help finding out what's going on with our elements.  And I'm not talking to her alone after last time.  I need my body guard," Rainbow kissed Applejack on the cheek and smiled as Applejack blushed a bit.  Opening the door they entered and were greeted by Spike and Twilight from a pile of books.

"Twilight, it feels like we're getting more connected every couple days and the more we love each other the more power I feel like I have," Rainbow started.

"I know, it's almost like I'm using my element when we have sex-"

"Make love" Rainbow interjected while blushing.

"Make love then, but it's a feeling I get when I'm close to her too, just not as strong."  Applejack stated slightly concerned. Sighing Twilight climbed over the pile and sat before them before speaking.

"It could be a side effect of the elements.  They are about harmony and love is stronger than just that.  The only thing is since the elements of harmony are still a mystery to us and there's almost nothing written about them and even the Princesses are cryptic about their history.  So, I can only surmise that your, connection, to each other is acting as a catalyst for your elements' power.  I don't know how or why and if you can take notes of -"

"Twi, we ain't takin' notes of our personal lives for you to hide away like ya did with ours."

"Uh!  Applejack.  I don't know what you're talking about."

"The heck ya don't.  I remember you takin' notes and all that even while we were in the middle of whatever number you gave our moves and-"

"Girls, please!  Let's not fight right now, I can't have you go to jail again.  So, lets just chillax and let me talk."  The others nodded and backed up from each other.  "Okay, yes.  Me and AJ are in love and everypony know it.  Yes, you two had a thing and it was kinda weird so you two broke up."

"I didn't-"

"Shh Twilight.  As I was saying we have to get over what happened.  The past is the past and we don't live there anymore.  So, just be 20% cooler like me and get over it.  Now, we have an issue and we don't know what's going on.  Help me out, Twi.  What's goin' on."

"Well, I don't know, Rainbow Dash.  I've done all I can and all I can ask is that you log your experiences.  You don't have to detail what you're doing but I have to know the feels you have."

"Sugarcube, I don't think ya understand.  It's love we feel when it happens.  That's all there is to it," looking at Rainbow she felt the flutter in her chest looking at her.  "And there's no need explaining love.  Ahm sure you can look it up in a book."

"No, I felt it when I was with you, Applejack.  I just didn't know until you left me crying on the stairs with my heart ripped out and-"

"Twilight Sparkle, I swear ya best stop all the dramatics or I'll storm outta here like I did that day.  Ya know why it didn't work out.  Ya were to into books and all that and not me."

"I know, and I'm sorry.  If I could do it over I'd do it differently and you know that," Twilight shouted while her eyes began to water.  She turned away so Applejack wouldn't look at her face.

"Twi, ya know it wouldn't be any different if ya went back then or we started over tomorrow.  Ya only care about yer books and studies.  What me and Dashing have, you and me never can.  That's that.  If ya don't have anything else, my fillyfriend and me have to go home."

"Wait, can't we-"

"No, we can't.  If yer just gonna talk about old relationships then I'm leaving.  Good night Spike.  Good night Twi. Ya coming Dashing?"

"I wouldn't go anywhere without ya, AJ." Rainbow flew after Applejack out the door leaving Twilight and Spike alone in the library.

"AJ, do you really think I've changed?"

"How do ya mean?"

"Well, ever since we got together I've never been happier and had a more full feeling in my heart, but I also quit my job lost my home, lost a bunch of friends and as soon as we moved in I got us busted by Granny."

"Sugarplum, you're the best thing that's happened to me too.  And ya didn't quit, you were fired.  Nopony left you, when have you done anything to see them?  And all that mess with Granny is as much my fault as yours.  I'm thinkin' we should visit the cellar before bed if we need to."

"Yeah, I guess you're right.  It's totally awesome being with you, AJ.  I never wanna be with anypony else."

"Ya know, I think we're on the right track.  Let's go to the cellar before we go for dinner?"

"AJ!  ... I think we should go before bed," Rainbow trotted in front of Applejack, "then we can go for a walk.  We'll be too tired to make it to the house after we're done," Rainbow said as she punched Applejack in the shoulder.  "Hey AJ?"

"Yeah Dashing?"

"Can I wear your hat the next time we do it?!"  Rainbow flew over Applejack and reached for the Stetson just to see Applejack bolt ahead, "Hey!  Get back here!"  Applejack galloped ahead giggling back to the farm.  Galloping into the barn she stopped to catch her breath as Rainbow flew in, stopping just inside the door to see Applejack standing by the cellar entrance with the smile that said it all.

"Ohhh, look who's back?  Rainbow Bash!  Ya here to tear somepony else a new one?" A mare in the back of the office shouted garnering attention of the entire floor.  Flying to Diamonds office Rainbow knocked on the door and entered, closing it behind her.

"Mr. Diamond wing?"  Frowning at her he cleared his throat.

"What do you want, Rainbow Dash?"

"I'm sorry."

"Is that all?"

"No, I mean I'm sorry for everything.  I'm sorry for being a slacker.  I'm sorry for being lazy.  I'm sorry for insulting you and making you look like a dork in front of the flock.  I'm sorry for," Rainbow started to sniffle, "I'm sorry for being a disappointment to you.  I've always been a slacker and I cover for it with arrogance and pride.  I talked with my fillyfriend and she told me what was wrong with me and-and I," stopping her speech she tried to stop crying in front of him as she admitted her faults.

"Miss Dash.  Are you being serious?"  Looking at her as she cried softly he softened his expression and leaned back into his chair.  Feeling his stress and anger fade away he closed his eyes for a moment.  The sound of Rainbow quietly sobbing and sniffling filled the room.  "Rainbow Dash.  I understand and I'm sorry too.  I am a bit of a dick when it comes to work.  I've always had the company.  Only the company.  I'd blown off my family and friends for corporate events.  My love life ended decades ago.  I envy you Rainbow."

"W-what?" she asked wiping her eyes and stepping closer to his desk.

"You live the carefree life I always wanted.  I am telling you this in confidence, by the way."  Rainbow nodded as she looked at him.  "I'm jealous of what you have and once I heard the rumors of you being in a relationship I overreacted.  I do think you have a long way to go before you gain the respect you deserve but coming in here, talking to me like a stallion not like I'm some ex coltfriend, shows me that you do still have potential to work here again.

Are you interested in having a job back at the weather corporation?"

"Uh, Diamond.  I didn't even think about that when I came in here.  I just got a job on Applejacks farm and we've moved in together."

"Wow, Rainbow Dash is the fastest in Equestria!" he laughed.

"Well, would I get my old job back?"

"Not a chance in Tartarus.  We've given that job to Quill.  You know her right?  She was a supervisor under you."

"Yeah, of course I know her.  So if I can't have my old job what would I do?"

"You'll start as a level five part-time cloud buster and we'll see how you do."  Drying her eyes she turned and opened the door.  Stepping outside she tuned and looked at him.

"Mister Diamond.  Thanks for the offer and I'll make you proud.  Again.  I'm -- Sorry for before," she announced as she closed the door.  Turning around she looked at the Pegasi looking at her.  "I got a job back here!"  A couple ponies clapped then they all went back to work.  "Don't be too happy at once now."

Quill flew over to her and gave Rainbow a hug.  "It's great to hear you're back.  Are you my new assistant manager?  I've got a load of work to delegate to you."

"Ha-ha.  No.  I'm a part time level five cloud buster.  I get to start in the morning and work til my area's done then I get the rest of the day free, To see Applejack." she whispered at the end.  They smiled at each other.  "So, whens the next party?  I think I have a title to maintain."

"Rainbow, you're the funniest.  I have a different game to play next time.  It's this Friday night.  I hope to see you both there," with that she turned and trotted back to Rainbows old office, looking back once she winked at Rainbow before entering.

That mare has a nice flank too, tight and smooth.  The way her rump moves-  Oh my gosh.  Think of AJ.  Think of AJ.**

The office was busy but organized as the orders were being handed out at the far end of the office.  The lines were short but quickly moving as Pegasi took their orders and left for their shifts.

"So, first day back on the job after crying to the boss last week?  Ready to do some real work for a change?"

"Yeah, Flutterwing.  And then I'm gonna go enjoy the rest of the day off."

"With you fillyfriend?"

"No, with your mom.  She's in Manehatten, right?  I can get there in two hours if I take my time."  Stomping her hoof on the floor Flutterwing growled and sneered.  Taking a fighting stance she spit on the floor.

"I actually passed flight school.  I'll kick your flank so hard you won't be able to sit for a week."  Rainbow laughed and waved a hoof dismissively at Flutterwing.

"I don't need to sit with what I have planned when I lay with her."

Flutterwing lunged at Rainbow in flash making a perfect swing with her wing and leg at the same time whiffing the air where Rainbow was.  Rainbow stood on her opponents head for a moment before Flutterwing spun again and kicked the air over her head missing again.  "Ya know, I am the fastest mare in Equestria, right?  You'll never get me so just save your energy for work."  A crowd had gathered around them staying a safe distance to watch the fight cheering them on.

Flutterwing was a really good fighter and was highly skilled in feather boxing, but, she wasn't fast enough to hit Rainbow who dodged each swing of her wings and kick from her legs with ease.  Shouting loudly Flutterwing reared and opened her wings trying to be as intimidating as she could before launching another round of attacks.

"Ladies.  Stop this *now*! Diamond shouted loudly startling half the staff and quieting the floor.  "What's going on here?"

"Rainbow and Flutterwing are fighting," a stallion shouted.

"Hey, I'm not fighting.  I'm dodging, she's trying to hit me.  I'm not gonna get fired my first day back for kicking another ponies flank."

"You would *never** stand a chance if you weren't flying.*"

"Flutterwing.  My office.  Now."  Diamond walked back to his office leaving a crowd of ponies 'oooo'ing at Flutterwing while Rainbow waved as Flutterwing stormed to his office and slammed the door.

"I don't get what her problem with me is, is she jealous of my coolness?"  Quill walked up to Rainbow and whispered to her.

"She wanted to be with Applejack before and once she saw you two together she... Well, you can see what jealousy does."  Moving back Rainbow looked at Quill and smiled.

"I had a feeling, now I have ammo if I need it."

"No, Rainbow.  Don't be like that.  You won't win in the end.  Trust me," she warned, "You want to be a better mare, so be better."

"Smiling is easy enough, Quill.  I'll just put up with her and remind her I'm better than she is when I have to.  I'll leave AJ out of it," Rainbow said as she turned back to line.

Well, I guess that's an improvement over the old Dash. I still have to keep an eye on her.

"Okay, paperwork says clear the clouds over sector 34-51 and move clouds, ugh, from 38, 45 and 50 to 18, 11, 33 and --- Gosh I remember why I hated this level of work.  It's a job though so I'd better just do it."

Completing her tasks took several hours.  By the time she was done she was exhausted and ready to go home for the day.  I have to file this crap still.  I wanna see AJ.  I have to file.  Wanna see AJ.  I have to file.  I'll file.  I can't get back to my old ways on the first day.  Digitants.  Gotta do it.  Entering the office she went to the clerk and gave her forms to the mare behind the counter then turned to fly out.  Flutterwing appeared before Rainbow stopping her in her tracks.

"Great, time for round two, Flutterwing?"

"No, I'm here to say I'm sorry.  Quill talked with me while I was busting and I understand that I'm mad over nothing.  I'm here to bury the hatchet."  Putting a hoof out Rainbow bumped it and smiled.

"I'm so glad to hear that.  I can't dodge you forever.  You're really fast and almost got me a few times," Rainbow said with a chuckle.  "And I'm sorry for that joke.  It was awesome though, right?"

Flutterwing pulled her hoof back and glared at Rainbow.  Oh great.  Now she's pissed again.  She strikes with her right wing first...

"Rainbow Dash, it was funny," Flutterwing said looking serious, "but, it was a low blow so quick into an argument," a smile returned to her, "Next time work from siblings to father.  Moms are last unless you wanna fight right away."  Sharing a laugh they hugged each other and Rainbow left feeling a sense of success.