Bloodymare Rarity

by Afro-Equestrian

Rating: mature
Tags: Applejack, Gore, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Trenderhoof, Rarity, Romance, Tragedy, Dark, Sad
Length: 17020

This is an alternate reality of what could have happened in the episode entitled "Simple Ways". (Season 4 episode 13). As the designated Ponyville day's pony of ceremonies, Rarity will stop at nothing to obtain the pony of her dreams.

Rarity's biggest crush, Trenderhoof, is coming to town for the Ponyville day's Ceremony. This may be her one chance to impress the pony of her dreams. But when her friend presents herself as an obstacle, what length will Rarity go in her pursuit of happiness?

Published 2015-10-05 14:30:02 UTC
Last updated 2015-10-30 23:38:28 UTC

The Tour

Knock! Knock! Knock!

The sounds of somepony knocking on the front door awoke Rarity from her slumber.

“Rarity! Wake up!” A voiced called from outside. It was Applejack.

Rarity, rolled out from under her sheets and rubbed her eyes. “Morning already?” she grumbled.

“You need to hurry up and get on outta here,” Applejack yelled, from outside.

Whatever is the matter? she thought.

“What time is it?” Rarity yawned, looking up toward the clock on the wall.

It’s only 9:00, she thought. Rarity’s eyes grew wide. Oh dear…

“Trenderhooof will be here in 15 minutes!” Applejack yelled.

Rarity jumped out of her bed.

“I’ll be down in a minute!” she yelled in response. She ran into the nearest bathroom and frantically began washing her face.

Applejack tapped her hooves impatiently as several minutes went by. “Rarity, what’s taking so long?” she asked.

“Nothing I’m just… putting on my makeup,” Rarity answered, while still applying her eyelashes.

“Rarity, we ain’t got time to look fancy,” Applejack argued. “Hurry up and get your hiney out her so we can get moving. First impressions are everything.”

“Coming!” Rarity called as she ran down the steps. She exited through the door. “Quick! How does my mane look?” she asked.

“Fine. Now let’s go!” Applejack quickly replied. “Last pony there is a rotten apple core.”

The two ponies made a dash toward the train station. They made several twists and turns on their way. After some time, Rarity’s breathing became heavy. Gradually, Applejack got further and further ahead of her.

It must be all of those cartons of vanilla oat swirl, she thought.

Rarity began to slow down to a stop. “Wait!” she called, panting heavily.

Applejack stopped and turned. “There’s no time to wait,” she answered back. “Trenderhoof will be here any minute.”

“But I’m too tired,” Rarity complained. “Besides, I don’t want to be all sweaty when I meet him. It’s just not elegant.”

Applejack frowned and tapped her hooves impatiently as Rarity slowly made her way towards her. To her, looking extra spiffy was no excuse to be late. Besides, Rarity should have done all of that before the scheduled train’s arrival. Her frown became a devilishly sinister grin as a mischievous thought came to mind.

“First pony there gets to marry him!” she said.

Rarity squinched her face in bewilderment. “What do you mean? Marry him?” she said, still catching up to Applejack.

“Just what I said sugar cube. You’d best get to steppin’,” she teased.

“Wait just a minute,” Rarity was only five feet away before Applejack sprinted away.

Rarity immediately followed doing the same. “Hey! Get back here!” she yelled, galloping after her. “Trenderhoof won’t just simply marry you.”

“Sure he will!” Applejack responded. “Right after I give him the tour of Ponyville all by myself. Just don’t be late for the wedding too,” she teased, while still ahead of Rarity.

“Oh no you don’t!” Rarity yelled as she began to pick up speed. “You’re not taking him on the tour. I am!”

“Well somepony better stop me,” Applejack teased

Rarity, now fully determined, galloped with all of her might and was quickly gaining on Applejack.

“That a girl,” said Applejack. “Now let’s see what you’re really made of,” she haughtily shouted.

She dashed ahead at full speed, no longer holding back.

“That all you got Rarity?” Applejack taunted.

“Trenderhoof will me mine you hear me? MINE!!” Rarity screamed.

Slowly but surely, Applejack began to gain more and more distance ahead of her. Try as she might, Rarity’s body just couldn’t keep up with her determination.

“Trenderhoof is gonna be my little hubby,” Applejack teased.

Applejack had gained so much distance ahead of her. Rarity was beginning to lose sight of her through the twists and turns they constantly made.

“Hey, wait up,” Rarity called, now out of breath. “Applejack!”

The orange mare disappeared behind an old house as she made a turn onto another street. Rarity followed after her, but lost sight of her.

“That little stallion stealer!” she huffed angrily. Despite being tired, Rarity didn’t stop galloping. She knew the way. She had only hoped to catch up to her long gone friend.

When I find her, I’ll show her what for, she thought. Nopony steals my stallion and lives to tell about it!

She ran through many different small roads on her way to the station. Her destination was only several blocks away. Then, she heard something that caught her attention. She immediately stopped to catch her breath and listened.

What was that just now? she thought, panting, and looking around. She waited for a moment and then it happened again. It was an eerie noise that sounded afar off. She weighed whether it would be worth taking the time to find out what it was or not. Curiosity got the better of her and she followed the noise to investigate.

She went through a series of unfamiliar alleyways, following the noise. After a while, the sound became clearer and more distinct. It sounded as if somepony was drowning.

Rarity stopped to listen to it again. A few moments went by, and then she heard it. She cocked her head as she listened, trying to make out the distorted words.

“Help… Me…” she murmured, repeating what she had just barely heard.

Is somepony in trouble? Should I help them? Her thoughts raced as she tried to rationalize what she was hearing. Then, she heard it again.

She followed the voice through some alleyways into an old abandoned neighborhood, and came across a dirt road.

She didn’t see anypony around and this worried her, as she didn’t know any part of Ponyville that wasn’t alive and bustling with activity.

The sound had stopped, but she could guess where it was coming from. She trotted off the dirt road down a hill toward the underside of an old bridge that desperately needed renovation. She slowly crept under the shadow of the old crumbling bridge and looked around.

How… odd, she thought, as she looked around and saw no pony there. I could have sworn I…

Her thoughts we’re interrupted by faint groaning sounds. It was coming from the inside of one of the sewer tunnels located under the bridge. Her hooves slushed through the shallow muddy water as she slowly approached the tunnel.

“Hello?” said Rarity, peering inside. “Is anypony in there?” Her voice echoed down the tunnel, but otherwise returned no other response.

I… must be hearing things, she thought. I should… go back...

Just as she turned, she heard the voice again.

“Heeeelllp… gublub… meee…” the voice faintly wheezed.

Rarity’s pulse began to rise. Somepony seemingly needed help, but she couldn’t shake the subtle, but growing fear that made the hairs on her back stand on end.

She hesitated at first, but nevertheless ventured into the dark, foul smelling tunnel.

“Hold on I’m coming,” she answered, in response to the sound.

She illuminated her horn so she could see. The tunnel was narrow and seemingly stretched endlessly from where she stood into darkness. She slowly walked deeper into the tunnel, stopping every time she heard the groans. The deeper she went, the more the darkness seemed to envelope the light emanating from her horn. The sound became closer and closer as she carefully walked towards it.

It had been several minutes since she had last heard the sounds. Then, she heard it again.

She stopped, for whatever made the noise, was no more than a few feet away. She struggled to keep the light from her horn glowing. It was barely bright enough to see the orange pony with a golden mane dampened with sewer water, curled up into a corner with her back turned.

Moments went by as Rarity stared at the now quiet mare.

“…are you… alright?” She asked in a sheepish tone. Her legs were shaking and her breathing stammered a little, as she asked in concern. She looked a little closer and made out the three apples present on the pony’s flank.

It was unmistakable. The cutie mark could only belong to Applejack.

“Ap… Applejack?” she stuttered. “Good heavens Applejack. You scared me.”

What is she doing all the way out here so deep in a sewer tunnel? She thought.

“…blubwhy?” the curled up pony whispered, facing the wall at the end of the tunnel.

Rarity remained silent for several moments in response to the ambiguous question.

“…Why what?” Rarity finally responded. “Applejack… what are you doing way out here?”

The curled up pony produced no reaction to Rarity’s question.

“If this is some kind of joke, then it isn’t funny, Applejack,” Rarity remarked, nervously.

The mare said nothing, only remaining still and silent.

“Applejack?” Said Rarity, as she extended her hoof, touching the mare’s shoulder.

The orange pony jumped.

In response to what she saw, Rarity retracted her hoof in horror.

The orange mare’s head had been bludgeoned, so much that it distorted the shape of her head and face. Dried blood had trickled down all over her face and mane as a result of the injury.

Rarity screamed, but no sound escaped her lips.

The injured pony reached out to grab her. “Why didn’t you help me?” She cried. Her eyes began to melt out of their sockets, followed by her skin, internal organs, and then skeleton, all into a red liquid onto the sewer floor. “Why didn’t you blububub meeeeblubub?”

The now petrified unicorn turned to run, but couldn’t move faster than a few inches per second. The blood washed over her and soon and filled the dark endless tunnel, robbing her of her vision and breath. The crimson liquid filled her mouth and nostrils with the metallic scent and taste of thick blood as she tried to make her escape down the tunnel that only led deeper into darkness.

Rarity jumped out from under the blankets, breathing heavily. It was the middle of the night. She and her bedsheets were drenched in sweat.

What an awful nightmare, she thought.

She pulled the sheets above her head, trying not to think about what transpired in the dream. It gave her shivers. She resisted the urge to fall back asleep. But sleep eventually overcame her.

She awoke the following morning, got dressed and headed down to the train station where she would meet Applejack as planned.

When she got there, she noticed the Applejack sitting on a nearby bench reading a newspaper. She trotted over to join her.

“Your late,” Applejack stated, turning a page without looking up at Rarity.

“Oops. My apologies,” Rarity responded. “It’s just that I… didn’t sleep too well…”

“Nervous about meeting a new pony?” said Applejack. Applejack sighed. “Well, the train is running late too. So I guess yer’ of the hook.”

Rarity sat on the bench next to Applejack “I really must thank you for tagging along.” She said. “Meeting Trenderhoof on my own just seems a bit overwhelming.”

“Sure thing sugarcube,” said Applejack. “Anything for the Ponyville day’s pony of ceremonies.”

A few minutes later, the train became visible from down the tracks. Rarity licked her hooves and began anxiously straightening her mane. She pulled out a mirror and began inspecting her make up.

“Sumthin’ the matter?” Applejack questioned. “You seem a bit flustered.”

“Me? Flustered?” Rarity retorted. “Nonsense! I’m ready for anything. Now how does my mane look?” Rarity asked while pulling out a bottle of perfume.

“You look fine,” Applejack reassured.

Rarity leaned over close to Applejack and whispered into her ear. “Quick! Does this dress make my plot look big?” Rarity asked quietly.

“What? I mean er… I guess,” said Applejack.

“Perfect!”

The train had arrived. Many ponies were exiting the train. Sure enough, Trenderhoof eventually appeared.

Rarity gasped quietly. “It’s him! It’s him!”

“Well don’t be shy. Let’s go over and meet him,” said Applejack.

Rarity nervously approached the tall pony with a camera strapped around his neck.

“Greetings. My name is Rarity and I’ll be giving you a tour of the town”

“The name is Trenderhoof but you can just call me Trend.”

Rarity giggled as she began to introduce her friend Applejack.

“This here is my friend Applejack. She will be accompanying us on the tour and-”

Before Rarity could finish, Trenderhoof’s attention toward her words had dissipated. Stunned by the sight he beheld, Rarity’s voice faded as he adored the golden mane and pony tail of the orange mare. He gawked at her chiseled calves, built for power. In all of his travels, He had never seen anything like it.

Applejack broke his trance with a greeting and extended a hoof. “Howdy’ pardner’! The name’s Applejack. Nice to meet ya!”

Trenderhoof awoke from his trance. “Oh! Um, hi. The name is Trenderhoof. Nice to meet you too,” he said, shaking her hoof, taking note of the firm handshake she gave.

“Excellent!” said Rarity. “Now that we are all acquainted let’s get started shall we?”

Rarity led them away. She took them to different places such as the spa, Sugarcube Corner and the library and gave the two a brief history on each. Then they started on their way towards Sweet Apple Acres.

Trenderhoof followed behind noting the marvelous size of Applejack’s voluptuous plot. He stared for most of the way. It wasn’t often that he saw a pony so fit and with such a rockin’ hot body. Applejack couldn’t help but notice his subtle gaze.

“Wacha lookin’ at?” Applejack asked.

“Oh um nothing.” Trenderhoof responded, quickly looking away.

Applejack quickly checked herself for any mud stains, despite explicitly remembering that she had previously showered that morning. She found none, leaving her just a tad bit bewildered.

Suddenly, a flash from behind startled her.

Applejack jumped and turned around.

“What was that?” she asked.

“What was what?” replied Rarity.

“You mean you didn’t see that?” Applejack asked.

“I don’t understand. See what?” asked Rarity in bewilderment.

“Um I uh… didn’t… see anything either.” Said Trenderhoof, nervously.

“Er, nevermind.” Said the orange mare.

The tour went on with Rarity getting a little antsy.

This may be the only chance I’ll have to score a date with Trenderhoof. I have to do something to grab his attention. Rarity thought for a moment. I’ve got it!

Rarity dropped her saddlebag, causing its contents to spill all over the ground.

“Oh, clumsy me,” she sang, bending over steeply, to pick them up.

Brilliant! Now with my things scattered about, he’ll be a gentlecolt pick them up for me. When we both reach for the perfume bottle, our hooves with meet, and then… then…

Rarity giggled as her thoughts ensued. Awaking from her thoughts, she reached first for the bottle of perfume lying on the ground. Her hoof was met with another. Her face instantly reddened into a better red color. She slowly brought her gaze toward the benevolent helper. Oh Trender-

“Need some help?” said Applejack, picking up the bottle and interrupting Rarity’s thoughts.

Surprised, Rarity looked around only to see Trenderhoof scrolling through some pictures on his camera. She sighed in disappointment.

The two picked up all of the fallen items and loaded them back into the bag.

“Thanks again,” said Rarity.

“Sure thing sugarcube,” said Applejack.

The wind began to pick up. A light breeze managed to blow Applejack’s hat from off the top of her head.

“Oh, let me get that for you,” said Rarity.

Just then, before Rarity even had a chance, Trenderhoof zipped past the two toward the fallen hat. “I’ve got it!” he said, catching it even before it hit the ground.

He quickly brought it to Applejack. “Here you go.”

“Why uh… Thanks,” said Applejack.

“My pleasure.”

Rarity stood jaw dropped in response to how fast Trenderhoof rushed to Applejack’s aid but not her own.

Why didn’t he do the same for me? she thought. Perhaps he didn’t see me drop my saddlebag. Nevertheless I must keep trying.

As the tour went on, Trendehoof intentionally lagged behind to maintain his stare.

Noticing his stares, the orange pony continually checked for marks, stains, anything. He would always seem to look away as soon as she caught him. This bothered her. She tried to counteract his stares by lagging behind as well to no avail, as he would just lag behind even further.

The tour was coming towards an end as they approached their last stop.

“This is Sweet Apple Acres. Here is where their notorious cider will be made for the festival. Have you ever tasted their cider Trend?” she turned asking her question, only to see that she was alone.

“Now where have those two run off to?” She pondered.

Off in the distance, she could see the two ponies beside each other at a standstill.

“Why are you two so far behind?” she shouted.

“Don’t worry,” Applejack shouted back. “We’ll be right there.”

“Well could you two please hurry along?” yelled Rarity. “I haven’t got all day.”

“Well, after you pardner’” said Applejack to Trenderhoof.

“Ladies first.” said Trenderhoof.

The orange pony folded her arms. “I’m not budgin’ until you do.”

“Uh, ok” Trenderhoof awkwardly replied.

With that, Trenderhoof took a few steps forward. As soon as he did, Applejack did the same. Trenderhoof would frequently stop in an attempt to regain his view. The cow pony however, was too keen on his tricks, and always stopped as soon as he did. Rarity tapped her hooves impatiently as the two slowly made their way towards her. This went on for what seemed like hours.

Upon reaching her, Applejack remembered that she had to be back to the farm no later than dusk. She would only then have just enough time to finish her chores and reach her quota. The sun was already beginning to set as the sky was fading into a reddish orange.

“Rarity?” said Applejack. “You think we can skip the farm for now and maybe pick this up tomorrow? It’s just that I have a ton of chores to do in order to supply the demands for the ceremony.”

Rarity rolled her eyes. “Oh alright.”

She then turned to Trenderhoof. “Well Trendy, it appears as if we’re going to have to continue this another day as it would seem that we are out of time…. I wonder why,” said Rarity, sarcastically. “I hope you’re not disappointed, dear.”

“Not at all,” said Trenderhoof. “I look forward to visiting the farm tomorrow.”

“Then it’s settled,” said Rarity.

After they showed Trenderhoof to his inn, the two walked home together since it was on the same path.

“Rarity?” said Applejack, breaking the silence.

“Yes dear?” Rarity answered.

“Do you see anything on my flank?”

Rarity, curious as to why she would such a question, went and took a look. She examined her from top to bottom but didn’t see anything strange.

“Anything like what?” she asked in bewilderment.

“You know. Anything strange.”

“Well I don’t see anything out of the ordinary.”

Rarity proceeded to inspect her tail and cutie mark.

“Your tail is just as passé as ever. Nothing strange about your cutie mark either.”

Finished with inspecting her tail, Rarity’s curiosity compelled her to ask more about it.

“Why? Is there something the matter?” she asked.

“Well your friend Trendy for some reason just kept starin’ at me. Thought I might have something back there. I was fine with it at first but then it just got downright creepy. He just kept… starin’.”

I wonder what she’s talking about? Rarity thought.

She then remembered how strange the two were acting earlier.

What was it about Applejack’s flank that could have caught his attention?

“Unless!” Rarity blurted out loudly. “It’s your butt.”

“What about my butt?” asked Applejack.

“That’s what he was looking at.” Said Rarity, in amazement.

“Yes I know that sugar cube,” said Applejack in a dull tone. “What I’d like to know is why.”

Rarity’s jaw dropped at the thought of her crush crushing on her total opposite, Applejack.

“Because… Because…” Rarity began to sob between her words. “He… He…”

“What… what is it?” Said Applejack, burning with suspense.

Rarity’ sobs quickly became cries as the realization of the situation fully sank in. The pony she admired fell for another, and for a completely opposite one at that. She was a pony who had refined tastes. Applejack compared to her was just a tactless farm pony with not a hint of class.

“It’s because he likes you so much and not me,” Rarity cried. “Now you’re going to get married and live the life of a dream with the handsome Trenderhoof.”

“Wait, just hold on a second sugar cube,” Applejack intervened. But Rarity went on.

“And then you’ll move in with him, and have little Trender babies.”

“Whoa, slow your role pardner,” Applejack intervened once again. “None of that stuff is gonna happen.”

Rarity, still sobbing, let out a squeaky mouse like coo. “Really?”

“Yep! It sure ain’t,” Applejack explained “I don’t know why he’s so interested in me to be honest. I swear I don’t even like the guy. He’s just not my type.”

Through the sobs, Rarity began to speak. “Really?”

“Yup!” Applejack reassured. She then said with a smile “I’ll tell you what. Next time, since I know you like him so much, I’ll try to be your wingmare.”

Rarity sobbed. “Really?” She squeeked.

“You darn tootin’!” Applejack answered. “Now I’ve never done this before, so please bear with me.”

Rarity’s face lit up with relief. Her change of mood was so fast that even applejack was surprised.

“Oh splendid!” Rarity said with excitement. She began rubbing her hooves deviously. “Simply put, He’ll be mine for the taking.”

“Yup! He’s all yours,” Applejack stated as they approached their crossroads. Their homes we’re in separate directions. “Well I’ll see you at Sweet Apple Acres tomorrow.”

“Ta-Ta.”

With that, the two went to their respective homes to rest for the night.

The Fall

The following morning Applejack was in the fields harvesting apples when Trenderhoof showed up early.

“Mornin’ Ya’ll!” Applejack called, assuming Rarity was with him. She looked around and then realized she wasn’t. “Oh uh, You sure are an early riser.”

Rarity was more of an all-nighter, Applejack thought. She was late again. She figured Rarity must be taking all this extra time to spiffy herself up for Trenderhoof.

“Well I was so excited to be here with you on a real farm that I just couldn’t wait.” Trenderhoof replied.

Applejack struck a tree with her hind hooves causing the apples to fall into a number of baskets placed around the tree. Trenderhoof watched in amazement of how her strength was able to accomplish such feats.

“So um,” Trenderhoof began with a shaky voice. “Do you come here often?”

“I live here.” Applejack answered.

“Oh!” Trenderhoof awkwardly replied.

Applejack Sighed.

“Look,” she began, “Rarity is gonna have to give you a tour of the farm herself. As for me, I have a ton of apple bucking to do. That little trip I had with you yesterday put me behind schedule and as for right now, I’m busier than a funeral home fan in July.”

Applejack dumped the baskets of apples into a wagon and then pulled it towards the next tree. The next tree was fairly large compared to all of the others. Applejack unloaded the wagon straps from her shoulders and positioned her hind hooves under the tree. She raised her hooves and struck the tree. The tree shook but none of the apples fell.

“Need some help?” Trenderhoof asked.

“Nope! This ain’t my first rodeo show,” she answered.

Applejack struck the tree a second time, this time several times harder than the last. With a loud thump, she struck the tree so hard, that she caused a fissure to appear in the trunk. All of the apples fell into the baskets positioned below.

“See?” Applejack stated with confidence, crossing her hooves.

But Trenderhoof had his attention on the fissure that began to grow. The tree began to lean forward towards Applejack and started to snap. Trenderhoof, with his quick reflexes, galloped towards Applejack and with all of his might pushed her out of the way clearing Applejack and himself from the path of the falling tree. The tree came crashing down on top of the wagon filled with apples, completely smashing it into pieces.

Trenderhoof laid on top of Applejack staring into her beautiful green eyes. Applejack broke the silence.

“Why thank you pardner.” Trenderhoof was still on top of Applejack, looking into her eyes.

Applejack spoke again. “uh, that was mighty nice of you to save me like that... you can get off of me now.”

“Um ok.” Trenderhoof replied still on top of Applejack, having not moved.

Applejack stared back into Trenderhoof’s eyes and thought to herself, “What a mighty handsome stallion, and so strong too.”

She tensed up as Trenderhoof brought his lips closer and closer to hers, but soon relaxed and closed her eyes.

“Good heavens! Are you both ok?” Rarity called from afar, galloping towards them. She had seen the tree falling from a distance and started galloping to help.

Applejack quickly pushed Trenderhoof from off of on top of her and replied. “Yes! We’re fine.”

Rarity reached the two ponies out of breath. “I saw the whole thing. Trenderhoof, you were spectacular!” She said still panting.

“Oh, it was nothing” Trenderhoof replied.

Rarity went on “Oh don’t be so modest. You we’re simply amazing.”

The three ponies went on their tour of the farm. Applejack decided that she would show them around just a little bit before getting back to work. After the tour, Applejack went back into the fields to finish her work. Trenderhoof was lost in thought and Rarity noticed. Trenderhoof pulled Rarity aside.

“Do you think she has a date for the ceremony?” Trenderhoof asked

“Who? Applejack?” Rarity unsurprised, answering dishonestly. “Why Yes! I think she does. But I’m not too sure myself.”

“Do you think she might… like me?”

Rarity, responded angrily, “NO! SHE THINKS YOU SMELL LIKE MANURE!”

Trenderhoof gasped and his eyes opened wide in alarm. “…SHE DOES??”

Rarity, angrily marched from the scene, leaving Trenderhoof a tad bit confused of as to what had just happened. “Does she really think I smell like manure?” he thought, sniffing his under parts.

Later that afternoon, after bathing, he found Applejack working in the fields. He straightened his poise, cleared his throat and approached her. “Um Applejack?”

“yes hun?”

In a mild voice, tugging his collar, he asks, “Do you have a dance partner for the gala?”

Applejack’s ears perk as the sound of his question. She knew where this was going, and she had remembered the promise she made with Rarity. But she couldn’t shake the feelings that she had inside.

“Um no? I mean er…” she answered reluctantly. “I ain’t gonna dance at the gala.”

Surprised, he asks. “But why not?”

“Well I uh” Applejack hesitated as she tried to think of an excuse. “Well you see, I really can’t dance, and I have no rhythm. It’s like I have four left hooves.”

“That’s not a reason to not go.” he objected. “I can teach you all that you need to know.”

“Listen here sugar cube, I’m tellin’ you I just ain’t a good dancer.” She went on. “But Rarity on the other hand is a great dancer. You should ask her to go to the gala with you. I’m sure she would love- ”

“But Applejack,” Trenderhoof interrupted. Summoning all of his courage he grabbed onto her shoulders and locked eyes with her causing her to her blush a bit, “I want to take YOU to the gala. Will you go with me?”

Up close, Applejack could smell his overbearing cologne. He stared into her eyes. Applejack could feel her feelings giving way, despite the cologne’s strong smell. “Oh sugarcube.”

She snapped out of her daze and turned her back.

I can’t. I just can’t, she thought. Rarity would hate me for sure.

She then thought of her promise, and whether she was going to keep it. Should I keep it? she thought. “Yes I will” she said, thinking out loud.

“Great! Then it’s settled!” said Trenderhoof.

“Wait. Er what?”

“I’ll come pick you up just before the gala. And don’t you worry your pretty little face. Just follow my lead and you will dance just fine.”

Tenderhoof galloped away, ecstatic about his answer.

“Wait!” Applejack called. “You misunderstood me!”

But Trenderhoof was too far away and exited to hear her call.

Oh phooey, she thought. She felt just a bit guilty about what had just happened. But deep inside, she knew she wanted to go. I should have at least told him to ease up on the cologne, she thought.

Later that evening, Rarity was contemplating the design of her next dress. Still saddened by her crush’s lack of interest, she constantly fought back the tears and started thinking of ways to gain his attention.

Perhaps I could imitate Applejack with her southern accent and terrible sense of fashion. She thought. But would it work? As a fashion designer, I could pull it off. She thought. Or maybe I could dazzle him with my glorious fashion sense. But what if it all doesn’t work?

She kept thinking for a while and then realized something. Since Applejack doesn’t want him, he’ll just have to go to the gala with somepony else.

Rarity smiled at the thought of this new possibility.

That just means this pony is going to have to be me. Her smile became devious, as she thought of the ways that she could capture her prey.

But how will I attract his interest? Perhaps I could ask Applejack to set us up together at a table at the cider tasting part of the ceremony.

A sliver of jealousy began to creep over her. She knew that the odds were against her based on what seemed to be his interests.

She must also know why he’s so into her. If he just likes farm life, then I’ll use my entire competency in fashion to imitate his deepest desires.

Rarity, all too excited to wait until morning to gain confirmation of her thoughts from Applejack, decided to consult with her immediately. It was far past sundown and pretty dark out, but she knew that Applejack would still be out in the fields since she lost so much time as a result of touring. With that, she left for Sweet Apples Acres.

Rarity figured finding her would be easy. Upon arrival at the farm, she entered the gate and followed the sounds of Applejack’s toil. They were a series of loud thuds and shaking of leaves. The distant sounds were faint but clear and she quickly followed thereafter.

The range of the farm was considerably broad, consisting of many hills, cliffs, and valleys all bearing plentiful, fruit bearing apple trees atop.

The way the apples glisten in the moonlight is simply gorgeous, she thought as she treaded past them. Rarity couldn’t remember the last time she visited the farm at night. The moon was full and its light peered through the trees in beautiful beams of bluish-white light.

The sounds of Applejack’s whereabouts’ grew clearer as she approached the bottom of a cliff. However, Applejack was nowhere in sight. Rarity could hear squeaks of a wagon at the top of the cliff.

Ugh! she thought. All of this walking is starting to make my hooves sore.

The steep cliff was very high and much higher than all of the others. She could barely see the trees on top and she wasn’t going to attempt to climb it as it was too rocky, and her hooves were already aching. She proceeded to go around, looking for a more gradual incline until she found a path worn out by wagon trails leading to the top. The path was still quite steep and somewhat rocky but not so much, so she decided to follow it. As she came about the top, she spotted a figure pulling a wagon along the path that disappeared amidst the trees.

That must be Applejack, she thought to herself.

The trail led all around the edges of the plateau with smaller paths from the trail, leading into the trees. The figure disappeared into the trees. She soon followed after, approaching from behind. As she treaded past the wagon to greet the figure at the front, the figure stopped. Rarity reached to tap its shoulder. The figure turned and jumped, letting out a blood chilling scream, startling Rarity and causing her to fall on her rear end.

The figure spoke “RARITY!?!”

“APPLEJACK? IS THAT YOU!?!”

Panting, the two ponies looked upon each other’s moonlit faces. They recognized each other and both gave a sigh of relief.

“Rarity! What in tarnation are you doing sneaking up on people way out here in the middle of the night?” Applejack shouted, still panting.

Rarity stood on her hooves, dusting herself off. “Well I came all of the way out here because I so desperately wanted to talk to you about something...” She went on, “But then you frightened me and-”

“Frightened you?” Applejack interrupted. “I reckon it was YOU who frightened ME!”

“No that’s absurd.” said Rarity. “I assure you that it was YOU who scared ME!”

Applejack sighed. “Well I have work to get back to. If I work through the night, I’ll be back on schedule, and I’ll have just enough time to rest up.”

The wagon squeaked as Applejack continued pulling it towards the next tree. “So what is it you wanted to talk about?”

“Well, I was hoping you could do me another favor.”

“More favors?” Applejack moaned. “What kind?”

“Do you think you could reserve a table for me and Trenderhoof for the cider tasting?”

“Sure I’ll…” Applejack paused. She then remembered that she hadn’t told Rarity about what happened after the tour. Should I tell her about Trenderhoof? Applejack thought. If I do she’ll hate me for sure.

“I’ll understand if you can’t,” said Rarity. “I know that you already have much to do, and I have been asking a lot from you lately, but alas I’ll just have to find another way to be alone with my Trendy,” she whined.

Applejack mumbled incoherently. “Well I uh, Trenderhoof may have of uh, might not be there to um…”

“Could you please speak up?” Rarity interrupted. “I don’t mean to interrupt you. It’s just that you were speaking so softly that I couldn’t hear.”

Rarity paused to await Applejack’s response.

Applejack knew that she couldn’t keep this up. She would have to tell Rarity what’s going on eventually. And besides, Applejack had mixed feelings on whether she wanted to give him up that easily.

It’s obviously me who Trenderhoof wants. Why try to change that? she thought.

Applejack decided to tell her the truth. “Well you see Rarity,” she began, “I can’t. I can’t because… Trenderhoof is already taking somepony else to the ceremony.”

There! Applejack thought. I said it!

Rarity’s eyes grew wide. “WHAT!?!” Rarity responded loudly. “He’s already taking somepony else!?”

“Yea, and they both seem to be quite fond of each other.”

Rarity placed her hooves onto her head. “This… This can’t be! I will not allow it! I demand to know who this pony is.”

Rarity violently shook Applejack “Who is she? Who is she?”

“She’s er, me”

Rarity’s jaw dropped in disbelief. There was silence.

“Surely this is some kind of Joke,” she chuckled “If it is, then it isn’t funny.”

“This ain’t no joke.”

Angered by Applejack’s words, Rarity shouted. “You’re lying! You... you wouldn’t do this to me!”

“I assure you I ain’t fibin’!” said Applejack “I don’t represent the element of honesty for nuthin’.”

At this point Rarity was absolutely livid. She felt betrayed. How could her friend do this behind her back? And after what she promised?

“ELEMENT OF HONESTY?!? HA!” She screamed. “More like element of backstabbing you lying backstabber!!”

Angered, Applejack responded “Now hold on to your horses Rarity!! I ain’t no backstabber and I sure ain’t no liar! Now I just told you the truth didn’t I?”

“Yea the truth about how you lied and backstabbed me!! You promised to help me win over Trenderhoof’s heart! Did you not? Such sincerity.”

“Now I didn’t’ exactly promise that. I said I would TRY to. I didn’t even mean for this to happen but it just sort of… happened!”

“ALL THESE LIES!!” Rarity shouted, circling Applejack. “I bet you had this planned from the start! Isn’t that right?”

“I told you I ain’t lyin’!”

“I told you I ain’t lyin’ ” Rarity parroted, mimicking Applejack’s voice and accent. “Oh? Is that a fact? I presume that would explain why you and Trenderhoof seemed so fond of each other during the tour. You had this planned before I even came into the picture. You made me think it was all just for me. But you were just using me to get what you want. You wanted time with him for yourself and you got it.”

Rarity laughed. “GOSH! How could I have been so blind?”

Rarity applauded “Bravo Applejack. Well played.”

Rarity frowned. “But it won’t be enough. If its war you want. Then its war you’ll get. When I’m finished with him, he’ll be licking off the dirt from the bottom of my hooves like a dog, and when I mention Applejack, he’ll say ‘Apple who?’ ”

Applejack, who’s competitive spirit was aroused by Rarity’s words, decided she would take on this new challenge. “Fine then! Since you’re so confident, bring it on pardner’.” Applejack grinned “You think you’re so high and mighty with your fancy talk and attitude that you think you’re above the rest of us pony folk. But I’ll show you that I too have got the moves Rarity.”

Rarity laughed. “Oh don’t flatter yourself! You’ve only slowed me down. But this time I know what’s really going on.”

Rarity got close to Applejack’s face. “Once he bears witness to the elegance of the illustrious Rarity, you’ll ponder how you EVER thought you could take him from me.”

“But I already have! Trenderhoof likes me and not you. When I told him about you, he said that he would take me over you any day of the week.”

“He said that huh? I believe that’s just another one of your pathetic lies! That or a silly attempt for a comeback line.” Rarity laughed. “Oh wait! Let me try!”

Rarity distorted her face, exposing her two front teeth, and crossing her eyes. “Oh look here ya’ll. I’m Applejack and I’m so much better than Rarity that I had to lie and cheat to get what I want!”

Applejack yawned as Rarity continued to mock her with faces and awkward bodily movements. She had just about enough of Rarity. At this point, there was no way she could convince her that this whole ordeal wasn’t planned but accidental. It had ended up with her accepting a challenge from her that could ruin their friendship. Feeling responsible for today’s turn of events, Applejack decided that it was time to call it a night. If she stayed, she would just end up arguing with Rarity all night. Besides, she couldn’t stay out for too long since Rainbow Dash warned her of a scheduled downpour late that night.

Why do I have these feelings for Trenderhoof? She asked herself. She wanted to apologize to Rarity, but after all of the mean things said to her, she no longer felt obligated.

“Well, I’m off,” said Applejack, yawning. “Don’t want to get caught in tonight’s downpour.”

Applejack loaded the straps from the wagon onto her shoulders and began to pull the wagon, filled with apples, towards the trail located alongside the cliff.

“Leaving so soon? Good! I had just about enough of your lies anyway since that’s all your capable of.”

Rarity taunted but Applejack ignored, continuing on her way.

Really? Nothing to say to that? Rarity thought. How dare that backstabber turn her back on me. I will NOT be ignored.

At that moment, Rarity grinned as a mischievous thought entered her mind. She decided that she would let Applejack have it once more before the challenge was on.

She tried to use me to take something dear to me away from me, and then lied about it. She thought.

Rarity’s horn glowed as she used her magic to levitate an underground tree root to the surface under the wagon, restricting the movement of its wheels. Applejack pulled and pulled but couldn’t get the wagon to budge. Rarity snickered as she watched the vein efforts of her friend fail to move the wagon.

Finally, Applejack gave it one last tug. Just as she did, Rarity quickly removed the inhibiting root, releasing the wagon with so much force, that it speed down the path dropping loads of apples onto the ground, pulling Applejack along the way.

Rarity busted out in laughter, as she watched the wagon spiral out of control down the path.

Applejack, tripping over the falling apples, was dragged by the sheer weight of the wagon. She realized that she was in danger as the wagon was approaching the side of the plateau. She quickly regained her balance galloping alongside the wagon in an attempt to regain its control. But it was too late. The wagon had rolled off the steep cliff and was dragging Applejack down along with it.

“RARITY! HELP ME!!” Applejack frantically called. She had managed to grab hold of the ledge.

Rarity, still laughing, stopped abruptly as she heard the calls of her friend. As she saw her friend hanging from off the edge of the cliff, her giddy face was replaced with fright.

“HELP ME!!” Applejack desperately called once more. She was slipping.

“HOLD ON I’M COMING!!” Rarity rushed towards her friend with all of her might fearing for the worse.

Oh dear, how could I have let this happen? Rarity’s thoughts raced as she ran towards her friend. She was only moments away.

“RARITY! PLEASE HE-“

Applejack slipped and screamed as she fell. Rarity, arriving at the edge, saw her friend fall down the steep incline aligned with large jagged rocks. She watched for what felt like an eternity in horror, as Applejack fell to her doom. Her screams became silence as she slammed against the first rock. Her body became as a rag doll, bouncing off of the rocks, producing loud distinct crackling sounds with each encounter, releasing streams of blood. She then hit the ground with a splat.

When it was all over, Rarity peered down, shocked at all of what had just transpired before her eyes. Applejack laid motionless down at the bottom. As she looked down upon Applejack she began to notice subtle movements in her legs. She was still alive and trying to stand up.

Rarity called. “HOLD ON! DON’T MOVE! I’M COMING!”

Her voice echoed down the valley, and was soon replaced by growing rumbling sounds. Rocks were beginning to dislocate from the shoulders of the cliff down towards Applejack, loosening other rocks in their way.

“APPLEJACK!! GET UP!!” Rarity yelled.

She struggled, but couldn’t. Within seconds, Applejack’s body was completely covered by an avalanche of rocks and large boulders. After the rumbling subsided, Rarity loomed overhead looking down upon the large pile of rocks. Everything became silent.

Rarity dashed down the side of the plateau galloping around the steep incline, following the more gradual one with the tracks. She slipped and rolled halfway down the hill but quickly regained her balance and proceeded down towards the bottom. She then sprinted towards the pile of rocks, galloping as fast as she could.

She arrived at the pile of boulders crushing Applejack. With her heart pounding, and her breathing heavy, she began levitating the rocks one by one to desperately find her flattened friend, hoping that she was somehow still alive.

“Applejack? Can you hear me?” Rarity called, as she removed the rocks.

Of all possible things that could have happened, this is THEE worst possible thing, she thought.

Some of the rocks were large and heavy. She struggled to levitate them but nonetheless was able to move them. After what seemingly took hours of removing rocks, she finally spotted Applejack’s mane. It was dampened with blood. Tears began pouring down from Rarity’s eyes as she removed the last bit of rocks, uncovering Applejack’s body. What she saw appalled her. The body was mangled. Flesh was torn in various places. Her head was penetrated and crushed by the jagged edge of a large boulder. It entered through the back of her cranium forcing brains to protrude from her mouth and ears. Her head rested in an ever-expanding pool of blood of which bits of brains and skull floated about.

She fell onto her rear end, eyes still glued onto her deceased friend.

How could I? Oh how could I have done this? She thought. I… killed her.

She stood there frozen. She was too shocked to move until she felt something cold touch the tip of her hind hooves. The puddle of blood had finally reached her. The blood stirred something deep that had resided within her. Along with its coldness, it brought forth a faint sense of mirth. It drained all of her remorse and fears, dulling all of her senses until she felt nothing else. She dipped her fore hoof into the puddle making circular motions, slowly smiling as the blood slushed between her legs. She raised her hoof and quickly brought it down into the puddle, splashing blood onto her face and mane. A drop reached just below her bottom lip. She reached down with her tongue and lapped it up. She felt herself sinking into a very dark place. She fought against it telling herself that this was wrong. The voice was like a tiny thought within the outreaches of her mind, fading back into existence. The voice eventually became louder and clearer.

Rarity’s eyes widened. Her heart began to race. Remorse and fear flooded her senses as she came back to reality. She looked and shrieked at the sight of the blood on her hooves.

Oh dear. What happened just now? What’s wrong with me? She thought in wonder of how she could allow blood to tarnish her well-groomed hooves, and mane.

She leaped to her feet in panic. I…I must get rid the body, she thought. If anypony were to find out about this, my life will be ruined! My friends would never forgive me after something like this. Nopony would.

She looked around for a means of disposing the body. She spotted the wagon Applejack was pulling. It was a bit damaged due the fall but for the most part intact. The wheel had fallen off but it was mendable with a little magic.

She used her magic to repair the broken wagon. The mended wheel was still a bit wobbly but stayed in place. She then used her magic to levitate the dead body into the wagon.

I know what I’ll do. I’ll take the body to the everfree forest and bury it. Nopony will find it there. Nopony even goes there.

She meticulously picked up as much of the scraps as she could find from Applejack’s remains and levitated them into the wagon. She covered the pool of blood with some of the fallen rocks. She realized that for some reason, it was much easier to lift the heavier boulders then before. There were a few bloody hoofprints under the boulders but since Applejack mentioned a downpour, it didn’t worry her too much.

The rain should wash away the blood, she thought. The boulders are only a temporary cover up.

Rarity found a soft pile of dirt and used it to wipe the blood from her hooves, legs and mane.

Well it’s better than using leaves. She thought. Leaves would only smear the blood around her body. Red blood would easily be recognizable against her pale white skin if anypony happened to see her that night. Dirt would clean it off and cover it up a bit more effectively as her skin would no longer be red but brown. She was a bit dirty but nonetheless satisfied with the results.

“Beggars can’t be choosers now can they?” Rarity exclaimed to herself. “This will just have to do. Now all I have to do is keep calm and play this sensibly and nopony will know a thing.”

She then covered Applejack’s body with the scattered apples just in case she was seen and somepony got curious. After filling the wagon, she strapped up and started for the everfree forest.

Moving along the outskirts of ponyville, she tugged the wagon towards her destination. She had finally arrived at the entrance of the forest. The sound of timber wolves howling in the distance sent chills down her spine. Rarity swallowed hard and hesitated, but nevertheless ventured forward.

The Basement

It was a very dark and dank place at night. The forest floor was wet and her hooves soon became muddy. Her right and left were aligned with leafless trees gnarled with crooked branches that twisted like broken limbs above her. The mended wagon wheel squeaked loudly as it wobbled through the forest. Rarity was beginning to have cold feet but pushed onward regardless of her fears. Though the sounds of Timberwolves howling off in the distance struck fear into her heart at first, they were her only solaces, reminding her that they were not so close by.

Once she felt that she had ventured deep enough into the woods, she peered through the trees on her right for what appeared to be a grassless soft spot on the ground far off of the path deep into the woods.

I’ll unload here, she thought. I’ll drag the body towards that spot over there and bury it. I’ll need to work quickly to make it back before sunrise so I won’t be seen.

Rarity paused as she heard faint rustling sounds in the nearby bushes on the opposite side of the trail. Frightened, she turned slowly towards the bushes. The sounds were getting closer and closer seemingly coming directly towards her. Now that she had thought about it, she hadn’t heard the sounds of timber wolves howling for quite some time.

Have they caught on to my trail? Or worse, perhaps the smell of blood? Her thoughts began to race and she stood frozen in place, unable to move. They’ll rip me limb from limb. There’s no way a delicate flower such as myself could fend off such animals. Rarity’s heart was throbbing in her chest as she was petrified from the possible outcome of this encounter.

She then heard what sounded like arguing as the figures emerged. Three young fillies leaped from behind the bushes.

“Are you sure you heard something over here?” Applebloom asked.

“Yes I’m sure of it. I heard something coming down this path,” Scootaloo answered.

Rarity’s jaw dropped as she looked on in disbelief. What are they doing in such a dangerous place? she thought.

The three fillies continued their conversation as they hadn’t yet noticed Rarity.

“Girls I reeeealy think that we are in over our heads here,” said Sweetie belle nervously.

“Yea, I think Sweetie belle’s right. We should go back,” Applebloom added. “If Applejack caught wind of this, she’ll never let me go out and play for weeks… or maybe even months”

“Oh hush and stop being such big babies,” Scootaloo chided. “If we’re going to get our cutie marks as creature catchers then – “

“GIRLS!!” Rarity loudly interrupted. As soon as she did, she placed her hooves around her mouth as she had just remembered that she was not to be seen.

Scootaloo gasped. “TIMBERWOLF!!!” She screamed, jumping into the hold Applebloom’s arms.

The three fillies looked onward towards the approaching figure overshadowed by trees. Rarity’s face came into the moonlight, and they we’re all a bit relieved but also a little surprised.

“RARITY!?” Sweetie Belle exclaimed. Oh we’re really in for it now, she thought. “What are you doing here?”

It was too late now. She was seen and now had to look casual.

“I was just about to ask you three the same thing. The Everfree forest is no place for the likes you,” Rarity scolded. “What are you all doing here? And at such a late hour? Do you not know that the Everfree forest is dangerous and filled with pony eating wild monsters?”

“Well you see,” Scootaloo began “We uh, we were um, we can explain!”

Rarity grew impatience as the three fillies stuttered with a series of ‘uhs’ and ‘ums’ followed by incomplete sentences in an effort to come up with an excuse.

“Girls, if you have an excuse I’m listening. I’m sure that it was for something utterly foolish,” Rarity exclaimed.

“We just wanted to be like the creature catchers in the story that Applejack once told us,” Applebloom stated.

“Yea, but then we got a little carried away in trying to get our cutie marks to appear,” Scootaloo added.

“You do know that that’s just an old pony’s tale,” said Rarity.

“Scootaloo was too busy trying to impress Rainbow Dash,” Sweetie belle explained. “She got us to go hunting with her so that we could get creature catcher cutie marks… So it’s all her fault.”

“MY FAULT!?” Scootaloo yelled. “It was Applebloom’s idea. It was her and her crazy stories that got us here in the first place!”

“WHAT!?” Applebloom screamed.

The three fillies engaged into a heated argument about whose fault it was. Rarity’s patience had just about run out.

“GIRLS!!” She shouted, silencing the three. “I don’t care whose fault it is. It’s way past your bedtimes. It’s time for you all to go home at once. You ought to be ashamed of yourselves.”

“We’re sorry!” the three simultaneously apologized.

“That’s fine. Now off you go!” said Rarity.

The three stood there unmoved, silently staring up at Rarity. She began to wonder why they wouldn’t just leave.

“Yes?” said Rarity.

“We’re scared,” the three fillies admitted.

“And sort of lost. Can you take us back to Ponyville?” Sweetie Belle asked.

Rarity rolled her eyes and sighed. “Oh alright. Come along now fillies!”

The four started on their way back to Ponyville. The skies we’re getting cloudy, blocking out most of the moonlight. Sweetie Belle could have sworn that she felt a droplet fall onto her flank. The three crusaders remained silent as they followed. They noticed the wagon Rarity was pulling and how dirty she was. Despite being a little curious, they didn’t bother to ask as they we’re already in deep trouble and didn’t want to pester Rarity with questions. Finally, Sweetie Belle found the courage to speak.

“I’m hungry,” said Sweetie Belle.

There was no response from the other ponies. She then looked toward the wagon Rarity was lugging. It was not hard to notice. Its wheels squeaked loudly, particularity the wobbly one.

“Hey sis, what’s with the wagon?” she asked.

Rarity, startled by her question, wondered how she could have ever forgotten about the task she had first set out for.

Oh why did I agree to walk them home? I should have just made them follow the trail back on their own. But if they were to get mauled, who’s fault would it be? I can't let another friend of mine die, especially not a sister of mine. Not on my conscience.

“What, this? Oh it’s nothing really,” she anxiously responded. “Just a wagon filled with apples.”

I totally lost my chance to bury the body! she thought. There was no point in turning back now. She risks arousing their curious little minds even further if she did.

“Why did you come to the Everfree forest anyways?” Scootaloo asked.

Alarmed, Rarity tried to think of an answer. Oh noes! They’re catching on to me, she thought. This is why I didn’t want to be seen. Come now Rarity. Think!

“W-well I uh, was l-looking for you all because…” Rarity stuttered.

As they walked, the three fillies had their eyes glued on Rarity as they awaited the rest of her answer. The pressure was almost too much for her. Droplets of sweat trickled down her cheeks, collecting on her chin before dripping to the ground below. Sweetie Belle took notice of her flustered behavior.

“Sis? You ok? You don’t look so good,” she said.

Rarity, now perspiring profusely, tried to finish her response inconspicuously. “Oh w-whatever do you mean? I was just so worried about you all because um… you all went missing and uh… A-Applejack got worried and uh… ”

Rarity cringed as Applejack’s name escaped her lips. Images of Applejack’s body flashed throughout her thoughts regarding how she had last seen her dead, and covered in blood. Guilt began to fill her conscience.

Keep it together Rarity, she thought, brushing off her thoughts.

“Did you say Applejack?” Applebloom interrupted. “This is bad. She must have found out that I snuck out. I’m really going to get it when I go home.”

Scootaloo turned to Applebloom in frustration. “I thought you said nopony saw you when you snuck out. Somepony probably saw you and now we all might be in big trouble. Thanks a lot Applebloom.”

Their three faces became sad and gloomy at the thought of being penalized for their misbehavior. Rarity saw this as a chance to take advantage of the situation. She couldn’t let anypony outside of the four of them know that she was last seen in the Everfree Forest.

“Well not exactly,” said Rarity. “Applejack knows nothing about the whereabouts of you and I. But if she did, you would all be in so much trouble.”

She loomed over the three fillies with a grin, as she had an idea that could potentially rectify her mistake of being seen.

“I won’t tell if you won’t tell,” she said with a sinister smile. “But you have to keep this all a secret.”

The three sad faces lit up with relief. “Really? you’ll do that for us?” asked Applebloom.

“That’s right my dear,” she said, bearing a fiendish smile. “I’ll just explain that I invited you three to come over for a little tea party, and of course time got away from me, and I dropped you off home a little late. But you‘d better promise not to tell on me for lying, or else.”

Ecstatic about Rarity’s offer, the three fillies happily accepted.

“Alright. Now pinkie promise me.” Said Rarity.

The three chanted together along with Rarity. “Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye.”

The three fillies giggled after reciting Pinkie Pie’s silly promise.

Rarity commended herself. Perfect! Now all I have to do is pretend I was home the whole time with these three, just in case anypony suspects that somepony is responsible for Applejack’s disappearance.

“That sure is a lot of apples you've got there,” said Scootaloo, peering past Rarity at the wagon filled with apples. Her mouth watered at the sight of them, glistening in the moonlight. She had just realized that she hadn’t had supper and all of this hunting was making her hungry.

“Apples? I want one!” said Sweetie Belle. Her horn glowed a radiant blue as she levitated an apple from the wagon into her mouth exposing a small part of Applejack’s bloody mane.

Rarity gasped as she frantically used her magic to cover it back up with another apple before it was noticed. She then turned towards little Sweetie Belle, as she was already enjoying her apple, and glared angrily.

“How Rude. You never asked me for that apple Sweetie Belle.” Rarity hissed.

“Oh sorry! It’s just that you had so many I didn’t think you would mind,” she said with a smile, clearly insincere with her apology.

“I want one too!” Scootaloo exclaimed. She turned back and reached for an apple in the wagon. Her hoof was greeted by a hard slap from Rarity’s.

“Don’t touch my apples!” Rarity said sternly, almost frightening Scootaloo.

Applebloom took a good look at the wagon. “Hey wait a minute. That looks like one of OUR wagons from Sweet Apple Acres. Did Applejack say you could have that?” She asked.

Rarity froze at the sound of Applejack’s name.

“Oh uh yes!” She awkwardly replied. “She said that she no longer needed this one, so I happily took it from off her shoulders.”

“Why does it look so beat up?” Applebloom asked.

“Why do you ask so many questions?” Rarity retorted.

“How come Sweetie Belle gets to have an apple?” Scootaloo pouted, folding her arms. “It’s not fair!”

“Life isn’t fair,” said Sweetie Belle.

“It’s ponies like you who make life unfair,” said Scootaloo, under her breath. Pft! So much for the element of generosity, she thought.

The four had finally arrived at the town of Ponyville, fortunately without incident.

The three little ponies thanked Rarity and went their separate ways. They didn’t seemed too worried about getting caught anymore.

Perhaps they’re confident in being able to sneak back in the same way they snuck out, Rarity thought.

Applebloom reached her home first. She climbed the stacks of hay to reach her window. When she entered her room, she couldn’t help realize how quiet it was. She peered outside her room door to see if anypony was awake. She could hear Big Macintosh’s loud snores and granny smith talking from down the hallway. She checked on granny smith only to be relieved with the fact that she was just sleep talking.

She went back to her room and climbed into her bed. She thought it was weird that they weren’t all up worried about her disappearance. She drifted off to sleep.

Rarity started on her way home as soon the three fillies left. The light drizzle began to pick up and soon became a downpour with occasional flickers of lightening and distant thunders. It dampened her mane causing it to lose its form. She lugged the wagon toward her boutique. She thought of turning back to try to bury the body but couldn’t find the confidence to go back into the forest. Besides it was only a few more hours until sunrise. She wouldn’t have the time. I’ll just have to take her home until circumstance provides me with another opportunity to rid myself of the body. I hope to Celestia that I’m never found.

The rain had caused blood to drip from the wagon. Though it left a trail behind her, she wasn’t worried. It was raining pretty hard and she was sure that it would wash away the blood.

As she entered her home, she looked around to make sure that she wasn’t seen. Once reassured, she pulled in the wagon, closed and locked the door behind. She pulled the curtains on every window closed. She had finally made it home without anypony suspecting anything. Now she could drop the facade and relax, or so she thought. Ironically, this only resulted in all of her suppressed anxiety to bubble to the surface.

Opal curiously watched Rarity, as she frantically paced about, anxiously scratching her mane.

"Why did this happen? Why me? Woe. Woe is me." She gazed upon the wagon. Things just couldn’t possibly get any more awful, she thought. The wagon was still dripping blood and it was starting to make a mess unto the floor. Just what am I supposed to do now?

Rarity had just remembered that there was a basement accessible from the inspiration room.

Rarity started for the basement as Opal gave an inquisitive meow, as if she was asking, is everything alright? She tried to follow Rarity to the inspiration room.

“Not now Opal!” she scowled. “Go away.”

With that, Opal meowed angrily before running off.

She opened the door leading into the basement. Inside was a very dark staircase with no lights. She used her magic to illuminate the stairs. Shadows bounced around as she traversed through several flights of stairs leading deep underground beneath the boutique. She carefully pulled down the wagon, disallowing it from falling too fast. The wagon noisily slammed against each and every step while the dripping blood, leaving a trail in her wake. She then dragged the wagon down a short hallway and came across a door at its end. She didn’t recall been given a key for this door. Using her magic, she tested the door to see if it was locked by giving the doorknob a light turn but managed to twist it right off.

Oops! How brutish of me, she thought.

She then attempted to use her magic to forcefully pull open the door.

The door spun open, snapped from its hinges, and flung over Rarity’s shoulder, just barely missing her, before crashing at the bottom of the stairs down the hall behind her. She stopped for a moment to ponder how she could ever possess the strength to accomplish such feats, but nevertheless proceeded to enter the dark room.

Upon entering, she was greeted by a pungent, humid smell. The walls were aligned with floral patterned wallpaper with a seemingly reddish background. It was discolored with many blotches of blackened mold and cloudy areas where water damage took its toll. The wallpaper, covered in mold and mildew, of which had spread to the shelves and boxes that laid upon them, was badly torn in various places exposing the brick walls behind it. This contributed to the strong musty smell that disgusted Rarity. There were wooden shelves aligned against all of the walls. The shelves contained pictures with cracked and/or damaged frames, boxes filled with sowing rolls, and old tools displaced about.

She spotted a very large icebox in a corner. It was old but still intact.

Perhaps I could hide the body in there for now. Or at least until I have another opportunity to bury her, she thought.

She set the wagon down and trotted across the cold wet floor towards the icebox. Below her were slabs of cracked concrete floor. The ceiling had leaks that amassed several puddles of rainwater beneath them. Rarity tried to avoid these puddles as she approached the icebox, but realized that it was impossible. She turned the icebox onto its back so that the doors faced upward. She opened it and used to her magic to levitate the wagon over it. She began pouring the contents of the wagon in. The apples fell in first. Applejack’s disfigured body plopped in last followed by a downpour of rainwater mixed with red blood. Some of it splashed onto Rarity’s face, bringing back the familiar sense of infinite bliss. Feeling herself sinking again, she fought the feeling until it subsided before getting too strong. This was clearly an unnatural response to blood and it frightened her.

Rarity went back upstairs to fill several buckets of ice. She came back downstairs and dumped the buckets into the icebox. She repeated the same action but this time with salt. She still had plenty left over from the last winter harvest, of which she used only to clear the walkway.

After dumping all the ice and salt she could spare, she promptly took a bath, cleaned up the blood, careful enough to not let any more of it touch her hooves, and climbed into bed. She found it difficult to fall asleep at first. The events that led up to Applejack’s death replayed repeatedly in her head, chasing away any possible sleep. She remembered the things she said, what she did, Applejack’s Screams, and her bloody mangled body. She thought of how her friends might react.

They will surely hate me for what I’ve done, she thought. It’s simply unforgivable. Perhaps they will all just think she ran away for some silly reason like always, or they’ll blame Discord. They’ll never find out and I won’t have to lose any more friends. With that in mind, she drifted off to sleep.

The Pain

It was morning. Rarity was still asleep when she heard a series of loud knocks bombarding her front door. Startled, Rarity awoke from her slumber and lazily rose from her bed. A voice spoke loudly over the constant noise.

“Rarity! I know you’re in there! Open this door right now!”

“Just a minute!” Rarity shouted as she groggily trotted downstairs, slipping on a robe.

The voice sounded familiar. The assailant of knocks continued, unrelenting all the way until she opened the front door.

The sunlight overshadowed the assailant, presenting the guest as a black figure. Rarity winced at the bright light. Her eyes hadn’t yet fully adjusted to the morning sunlight.

“Welcome to Carousel Boutique. How may I he-”

Before Rarity could finish, the figure spread her wings and leapt through the door on top of Rarity. As Rarity fell, she closed her eyes to brace for impact with the ground. When she opened them, the guest was on top of her. Her eyes adjusted to the light.

“You selfish, prissy, little devil!” Twilight yelled, pinning Rarity to the floor.

“D-devil?” Rarity stuttered in surprise. “W-what do you mean? Unhoof me Twilight!”

“Don’t play dumb with me Rarity. You won’t be able to lie or whine your way out of this one. So save it!”

“Lie or whine my way out of what? Tell me!” Rarity bellowed. “It almost sounds as if you are accusing me of something. What is it that you are accusing me of?” Rarity growled, as if she didn’t already know.

She then thought of the crime she had committed. Her eyes widened as the thought of incarceration entered her mind. They must have found out! she thought. But how? I thought I was so careful.

“No use in playing innocent Rarity,” A second voice protruded from outside the doorway.

A pegasus with blue fur and rainbow colored mane entered approaching the two.

“Rainbow Dash!” said Rarity. She angrily asked, “What’s the meaning of this? I demand an explanation!”

“Applejack has been murdered,” Rainbow Dash answered. There was silence.

“Murdered?” Rarity asked, breaking the silence, pretending to be horrified.

“Yes murdered,” Rainbow dash continued. “We investigated the matter quite thoroughly. We have reason to believe that it was you.”

Rarity gasped as Rainbow Dash completed her last sentence.

“Me?” Rarity replied in inauthentic disbelief.

In a tone of innocence, she carried on her phony act.

“My word. How could you accuse me of such a deed?” Her voice took on a more ill-tempered tone. “And how dare you accuse me of murdering Applejack.”

The room went silent once again.

Just then, she heard the cries of a young filly. Outside her doorway we’re five more ponies. Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie had brought Sweetie Belle, Applebloom and Big Macintosh to the scene. The cries emanated from Applebloom. Twilight removed herself from on top of Rarity, allowing her to stand so she could see the consequences of her actions play out before her.

“Why did she have to go Big Macintosh? Why?” Applebloom sobbed.

“There there lil’ sis,” Big Mac replied. “Everything’s going to be ok. Twilight will make her pay.”

The room fell into silence with the exception of weeping. Big Mac held Applebloom close as tears ran down the faces of the two siblings. Pinkie Pie attempted to cheer them up with silly faces. Rarity watched as Big Mac tried to comfort his little sister to no avail. He returned an angry glare towards Rarity. She shuttered as his eyes met hers. The feelings of guilt began to swell deep within her heart. She wanted to cry but couldn’t. The thought of self-preservation began to override her sense of remorse.

“So, you think that I am guilty of murder do you not? What evidence do you have to support your assertions? Show me!” Rarity demanded.

“Plenty!” Rainbow Dash answered swiftly. “For starters, where were you late last night?”

“Simple! I was here sipping tea with the Cutiemark Crusaders.” Rarity stated with confidence. Ha! I’d like to see them disprove this one, she thought. The crusaders surely told them this. There’s no way they didn’t… unless…

“LIAR!” Screamed Twilight, derailing Rarity’s train of thought. “We have in account 3 witnesses that go against your claim.”

“Yea, and guess who they we’re?” Rainbow Dash added. “We know all about that little promise you made with the cutie mark crusaders last night, so we anticipated this kind of response from you. They told us everything. Even about wagon you were pulling. Of which we believe you temporarily hid the body, carrying it here.”

Those rotten fillies betrayed me! Rarity thought.

Rainbow Dash continued. “Listen! We can go on and on all day about the evidence we have such as the bloody hoofs prints we found that matched your own on record.”

“Not to mention the trail of blood that led right to your boutique,” Twilight added. “All of which tested positive for containing Applejack’s DNA.”

Impossible! Rarity thought. The downpour last night should have washed away everything! How could any of it still remain?

She looked out the doorway. They weren't lying. The trail of dried blood did in fact lad them straight to her house and the outside ground seemed fairly dry.

How could it have not rained? she thought.

“That’s right so just fess up,” Rainbow dash insisted. “Plead guilty now and just maybe we will cut you a deal in reducing your sentence since we we’re ex-friends.”

These words cut Rarity to the bone.

Ex-friends? she thought. What do they mean by ‘Ex-friends’?

It had just dawned to Rarity that the ponies she argued with were no longer her friends. She was beginning lose everything she had feared losing. Friendship, trust, and soon her freedom.

Rainbow Dash continued. “We also suspect that your motivation for murder was jealousy. We didn’t want to believe it was you. As first, we had our doubts but the evidence simply doesn’t lie. As I said earlier, we investigated the matter quite thoroughly.”

Rarity stood silent, shocked by the accuracy of their report. Rarity tried to come up with another excuse, but couldn’t think of anything. Then an idea came to mind.

“I’ve been framed!” Rarity protested.

“Oh really?” Said Rainbow Dash. “May I ask by who?”

“Discord!” Rarity proclaimed. “That’s right! Perhaps you peeps didn’t really Investigate the matter as thoroughly as you say.”

“How could it have been discord Rarity?” Twilight interjected. “Our witnesses said they saw you.”

“Have you already forgotten?” Rarity went on. “Discord possesses unique shape shifting abilities. He’s done it before. It was probably him! He’s after the elements again. He’s trying to put a rift between us.”

Just then, the sounds of a galloping wild horse emanated from behind, flying speedily through the doorway. Rainbow Dash, with her quick wits and reflexes, was able to deduce who it was, what was going on, and intercede.

“How dare you accuse Discord!” yelled the assailant.

“Whoa, take it easy Fluttershy!” Said Rainbow Dash, restraining the enraged pony.

“No! I won’t let her slander his name like this. Rarity, you have no shame!” Rainbow Dash struggled to subdue Fluttershy. She was amazed on how strong she could be when she was upset. “I HATE YOU!”

The three words Fluttershy spoke echoed throughout Rarity’s mind. I hate you… hate you… hate…hate.

“Fluttershy, calm yourself!” Twilight urged. “We will handle this in a dignified manner.”

Fluttershy, still huffing and puffing, stopped struggling. Rainbow dash saw that she could finally let her go as she had finally regained control, and then did so.

Twilight then turned to Rarity. “Now to address your claim. Discord was our prime suspect from the beginning. But we soon overturned this notion on the basis of Discord’s absence from Ponyville. Days before the murder, Discord was called by Princess Celestia for royal business in Canterlot. I spoke with Princess Luna personally to ask if Discord had left anytime that night. Knowing of his past, she watched over him the entire night. He had never left. So what you are saying is entirely false.”

Rarity once again stood speechless as she tried to come up with yet another excuse. “I… I…”

She truly had nothing this time.

“What’s wrong Rarity?” Fluttershy taunted. “Can’t think of any more lies?”

“I… I want a lawyer! And a fair trial in the court of law,” Rarity demanded.

“Overruled!” Twilight interjected. “In Ponyville, I am the law. And as Ponyville’s royal princess, it is my sole duty here to serve justice. Because you did not head our warnings and continued to fabricate these lies without pleading guilty or showing any sort of remorse for your actions, I will pronounce judgment right here and now. You will feel the full weight of your penalization without mercy.”

Rarity shook with fear. She had never felt so small in comparison to who was once her friend. This was a different side of Twilight to which she had never seen before. She had lost all hope and was now powerless over herself and her life. She now only awaited her eminent punishment.

Twilight continued. “On charges of cold blooded murder and disrupting the balance of harmony by fracturing the elements in abandoning your role, I sentence you to death.”

Rarity’s heart sunk. All hope was lost. There was only one conceivable way out of this now.

She charged towards Twilight while using her magic to levitate several objects that laid about the room to use as projectiles. She picked up furniture, several manikins, and supply crates and sent them flying towards Twilight. They all managed to hit their target simultaneously. The objects crashed into Twilight breaking into pieces releasing a cloud of dust and wood.

Rarity let out a fiendish laugh. “Ahahahahahaw you’ll never take me alive!”

There was a light glowing within the cloud of dust. Its source became apparent as soon as the dust cloud cleared. Twilight had managed to put up a barrier before the objects collided with her.

Twilights eyes started glowing brighter than the brightest stars in heaven. Her voiced boomed louder than the fiercest thunders in the biggest storm. All of Rarity’s ex-friends were all wearing their elements along with Sweetie Belle and Applebloom as the new bearers of the elements of generosity and honesty.

“I will paint these walls in your blood and demolish this establishment to set an example to all those who practice unlawfulness!”

The air violently swirled around Twilight as she floated into midair, carrying objects in its wake. The windows shattered and the walls began to crack, giving way to the sheer magnitude of Twilight’s power.

“Be gone abominable cretin!” these were the last words she used before firing a bean comprised of an assortment of colors toward Rarity.

“No wait! Please! Have mercy! Please! I don’t want to die!” Her cries were never heard. The beam violently struck Rarity with great force.

“NOOOOO!” Rarity yelled, jumping from under her bed sheets, startling Opal. She panted, breathing heavily.

She had slept late into the afternoon. She looked around and everything seemed normal.

A dream? It was all a dream? But it felt so real. It was simply terrible.

Though it was all a dream, the words of her friends plagued her thoughts. Selfish prissy devil… I hate you… abominable cretin…These thoughts struck sadness and fear into Rarity’s heart. She wept bitterly at the thought of her dead friend and possibly losing the rest.

Just then, there was a knock at the front door.

“Rarity?” A familiar voice called. “You in there?”

It was unmistakable. The voice belonged to Twilight. The knocking continued. Rarity quickly dried her tears and jumped out of bed panicking.

They’ve come for me! she thought. They must have already figured it out. The bloody hoofprints and the trail of blood are dead giveaways. She then turned to her window. I must escape. It’s the only viable course of action at this point.

“Hello? Anypony home?” The voice called again.

Rarity started for the window. She would climb down and make her escape out the back of her house, leaving Ponyville to hide in a faraway place, never to be seen again.

She gently opened the window and looked down. There was precipitation all over the windowsill, so she made a point to be careful for fear of slipping. But before she did, she had a thought.

Where did this precipitation come from? If there is water all over the windowsill, then it clearly must have rained last night just as I had remembered. She looked around outside and spotted several puddles of water on the ground. She then looked up at the grey cloudy skies.

The knocking persisted. Surely it was all just a dream, she thought. Nothing to worry about… right?

Her horn glowed as she used her magic to close window behind her. The frame slammed into the window sill, shattering the glass and breaking the window. The loud crashed echoed throughout the house.

Rarity stared at the window in bewilderment.

How peculiar, she thought. This is the second time my magic has broken something. Perhaps I should make arrangements to see a doctor.

“Is everything ok in there?” The voice from outside called.

Rarity began making her way downstairs.

It was dark. All of the curtains were still pulled from last night. She slowly opened the front door, cracking it just enough to let in a small sliver of light. She did this manually to prevent another accident like the window frame and basement door. She then peered through.

“Yes?” Rarity uttered softly. She looked around and saw Twilight standing at her doorstep. She was alone. She peeked at the ground for any blood trails. There were none.

“May I come in?” Twilight asked.

“Oh yes of course,” Rarity answered, fully opening the door. “Do come in.”

Twilight quietly trotted in, noticing how dark it was.

“Have you been asleep all day?” She asked. “Mind if I brighten things up?”

“Sure, why not,” Rarity answered, ignoring Twilights first question.

Twilight casted a spell, which of which raised all of the curtains simultaneously, to the displeasure of Rarity, as the light was too bright for her still groggy eyes.

Twilight sat at a table while Rarity brewed some tea. Rarity poured her a cup and sat quietly in front of her.

“So um… w-what brings you to Carousel Boutique?” Rarity asked, bringing the cup of tea up to her face. She wasn’t sure if Twilight had found out about anything.

“Well...” Twilight began. “I just went to Sweet Apple Acres to see if I could talk to Applejack, but I couldn’t find her anywhere.”

Rarity gave a faint sigh of relief. At this point Rarity was sure that her dirty deed had not yet come to light.

“Oh I see. Have you tried speaking with her family regarding her whereabouts?” asked Rarity.

“Yes, but they said that they haven’t seen her all day. In fact, they don’t recall her returning from work in the fields last night.” Twilight’s expression became distraught. “This had me a bit worried since this was unusual.”

“Yes, that is a bit strange,” Rarity added. “Did you file a missing pony report?”

“I did, but they said that she’s not legally missing until at least 24 hours have passed since she was last seen,” Twilight whined. “Until then they can’t do anything.”

“That’s absurd,” Blurted Rarity, expressing insincere concern.

“I know. As the princess of friendship, I feel totally useless in helping my own friends,” Twilight moaned. “I can’t seem to shake this bad feeling that I’ve had lately. I couldn’t even sleep last night.”

“Did you send a letter to Princess Celestia?” Rarity asked.

“I did, but I’m still awaiting her response,” Twilight answered. “There’s got to be something I can do. I’ve been looking for her all morning but nopony has seen her anywhere. I wonder what happened or where she could be. I sent spike and owlicious to look for her as well but they also found nothing.”

“You wouldn’t happen to believe that she’s in trouble now would you?” Rarity asked.

“What do you mean?” Twilight asked. “Are you saying something bad happened to her?” Twilight asked, panicking. “What do you think could have happened to her?”

“hmmm… ” said Rarity. She placed a hoof on her chin as a thought came to mind. A devious grin nearly erupted on her face just before Rarity brought the cup of tea towards her mouth effectively hiding. She took a sip and brought the teacup down having have successfully hidden her smile.

I must maintain my posture now, or she’ll be suspicious of me later, she thought.

“I have not the slightest idea,” Rarity answered, dishonestly.

Oh but I do have one idea, she thought.

She fought back the urge to smile as she began speaking her sinister words.

“Perhaps you should well… have a word with Discord,” She said. “Come to think of it, I’ve never really trusted him.”

“Discord!” Twilight echoed, almost as if she had just solved a mystery. “But isn’t he reformed?” Twilight asked, already expressing doubt. “Why would he be going after the elements again?”

Twilight lowered her head in thought. It didn’t seem that farfetched considering Discord’s past. After thinking about it for a moment, Twilight raised her head.

“I’m going to do a little digging before I jump to conclusions,” Said Twilight, in a new state of confidence. “I want you and the others to gather at the library this evening to discuss what we will do next. Perhaps around 8:00pm. As the new princess of friendship, it’s time to seriously take matters into my own hooves. No more sitting around feeling helpless. I’ve got to keep searching.”

Twilight started for the door.

“Wait!” Rarity called.

Twilight stopped and turned around. “yes?”

Rarity became a little uneasy. The question she was about to ask troubled her. “Hypothetically speaking… if you happened to have found out that Discord may have…” Rarity swallowed hard, as the last bit of words escaped her mouth.

“May have what?” Twilight asked.

“have… well uh… done something… terrible to Applejack, what would you do?” Rarity finished.

Twilight eyes widened at the thought of such a thing.

“Something terrible?” She asked. “Well, let’s just hope for his sake he hasn’t.”

“Why? What will you do?” Rarity asked, prying for an answer. “What if he did something...”

Rarity paused, as if she was unsure whether to carry on or not.

“Permanent,” She finished.

Twilight, a little perplexed as to why Rarity would ask this, thought about it for a moment. The thought almost enraged her. Rarity could see this. Her face turned red and the fury in her eyes was apparent. Twilight closed her eyes and took a deep breath, effectively calming herself down.

“Let’s just say his punishment will be long and irreversible,” Said Twilight, finally answering and turning around for the door.

Long and irreversible? Rarity thought. What does she mean by that?

“Wait, what do you mean?” Rarity asked.

The thought, again, enraged Twilight to the point in which she gave a livid response.

“After I turn his flank into stone, I’ll patronize him while slowly chipping off his arms and legs. And once I’ve had my fill, I’ll smash his franken face into a million tiny pieces,” Twilight yelled, progressively getting louder towards the end.

Rarity was legitimately frightened by Twilight’s daring threat.

“b-b-but… I-Isn’t he your friend?” Rarity fearfully asked.

“No true friend of mine would do such a thing,” Twilight quickly answered. “A friend that would do that was never a friend to begin with.”

“Won’t it be enough to just turn him back to stone?” Rarity asked.

“No! I’ll make him pay. Something of that nature is unforgivable! He’ll receive no mercy from me!” yelled Twilight.

Rarity flinched as Twilight spoke.

Twilight huffed and puffed but noticed Rarity’s frightened expression. She soon managed to calm herself down.

“I’m sorry,” Twilight apologized. “I didn’t mean it. I’m just… worried. That’s all.”

With that, Twilight rushed off out of the house to launch her investigation.

Rarity was left shocked and frightened. She had never seen this side of Twilight before.

This is just absolutely terrible. If she uncovers the fact that I’m the one responsible for Applejack’s disappearance, I’ll receive the same unforgiving torture.

She thought about the dream and how badly it had ended. This frightened her.

Rarity’s hooves and shoulders ached from the night before. All of the trotting and wagon pulling made her whole body sore.

Perhaps a little visit to the spa will offer some relief and alleviate my distress, she thought. I really do need to just relax a little and think my way out of this mess.

With that in mind, Rarity promptly departed for the spa.

On her way to the spa, there was something she couldn’t help but notice when passing by anypony. She kept hearing Applejack’s name being whispered amongst everypony’s conversation. Word of Applejack’s absence must have spread rather fast as she now became the talk of the town thanks to Twilight.

Soon they will learn the truth of Applejack’s death, Rarity thought. Perhaps they will dismiss it as some sort of accident. Or maybe they will never know. I mean, I hid the body and covered all of my tracks. I did everything right… right?

Rarity pondered these notions until she finally arrived at the spa. Upon entering, she noticed her friend Fluttershy being given a hooficure.

“Hey Fluttershy,” Greeted Rarity “Fancy seeing you here.”

Fluttershy lifted a cucumber from an eye to see just who addressed her.

“Oh hey Rarity,” Fluttershy replied softly. She immediately noticed Rarity’s tarnished appearance. Rarity’s mane was in disarray and her usually flawless skin was covered in scratches. There were also wrinkles and grey areas under Rarity’s eyes.

“What happened?” Fluttershy asked, concerned “You look… tired. Is everything alright?”

“Oh yes,” Rarity replied. “I know I may look a bit ruffled but I assure you that I am fine. I’m just in dire need of a makeover.”

Rarity called Lotus over and requested the usual, of which consisted of a hooficure and ending with a massage.

She occupied the available space next to Fluttershy and laid on her back as her request was complied by the spa pony. She let out a relaxing sigh and unwinded for a few minutes. When she looked upon Fluttershy, she couldn’t help notice how silent she was. This wasn’t too surprising as everypony knows that Fluttershy is usually shy. But the spa was where she usually opened up with conversation, talking about all of the things that interested or bothered her: Usually recent animal migrations or Angel’s misbehaviors. The only thing different this time was the obvious worrisome look on her face.

“Something troubling you dear?” Rarity asked.

She already knew what it was. How could she not. Everypony was talking about it. But she felt as if she had to ask anyway just for the sake of starting a conversation.

“Have you heard anything from Applejack today?” Said Fluttershy, in her typical mellow voice. “I just hope Twilight finds her and nothing bad has happened.”

“You must not know the Applejack I know,” Rarity calmly stated, giving her a smile. “I’m sure she doing fine. It’s nothing to worry about at all. She’s a strong independent mare.”

Fluttershy thought about it for a moment. “You know, maybe your right.”

Hearing Rarity’s words reassured her.

Rarity had mixed feelings about lying to her friends but she couldn’t just confess. It was all Rarity could think to tell her since she couldn’t villainize Discord as she did with Twilight. Fluttershy would reject that notion in a heartbeat.

The two ponies began talking about the latest gossips in town and the upcoming gala that was to take place within a few days.

“Do you have a special somepony to take to the gala?” Rarity asked.

Fluttershy blushed a bit but didn’t return an answer.

“Fluttershy? Something the matter?” Rarity asked as Fluttershy giggled a little. Rarity could tell that she was hiding something.

“Well, who is it?” Rarity pried.

“Nopony,” said Fluttershy returning back to her old shy self.

“Don’t be shy. You can tell me anything dear. Is it Big Macintosh?”

“No”

“Filthy rich?”

“No”

“Then who is it?” Rarity asked, now intrigued. She gave it a thought and then turned away in disgust. “Oh no. Don’t tell me it’s who I think it is.”

“Well who do you think it is?” Fluttershy questioned, hoping she still had Rarity in suspense. “Guess.”

Rarity had an answer, but she was afraid to give it.

“Might it be…” She cringed a little, reluctant to share her thoughts, but still managed to convince herself to just ask. She figured even Fluttershy had some standards.

“…Discord?”

Fluttershy gasped. “How did you know? And only your third guess. I’m surprised.”

Rarity’s jaw dropped. She was shocked. “Discord? Of all ponies?” Rarity shrieked.

“Yes,” Fluttershy gleefully admitted. “Isn’t it just wonderfull?”

“That’s just terrible,” Rarity retorted. “Why date Discord? Do you not know that he’s the lord of chaos? You could have easily gone out with Filthy Rich. In case you haven’t noticed, he has a thing for you.”

Fluttershy, a tad bit annoyed, began her rebuttal. “Ok first off, we’re not even dating. We’re just hanging out as friends.”

Rarity rolled her eyes. Yea, I hope you explained that to Discord, she thought.

“Second,” Fluttershy went on. “Filthy Rich has no respect for the precious homes of wildlife.”

Here we go again, Rarity thought, as Fluttershy ranted on and on about Filthy Rich’s involvement with deforestation as she did so many times before.

“And finally.”

“Yes finally,” Said Rarity, with sarcastic excitement, rudely interrupting Fluttershy.

Fluttershy gave her a look.

“My apologies Fluttershy,” She feigned. “Do continue.”

Fluttershy cleared her throat.

“Ahem! And finally, Discord’s a gentlecolt. Not the lord of chaos. At least not anymore. Hmph!” Fluttershy finished, folding her hooves.

“Well, I’ll just wish you two the best,” Rarity stated in closure.

Fluttershy glared at her in silence. She was satisfied with the point she made, so she decided to change the subject.

“You haven’t told me about your special somepony,” Said Fluttershy.

“Oh I don’t have one yet,” Rarity replied.

“Oh. Is there anypony you wanted to take?” Fluttershy asked.

“well, there is one.”

She thought about her crush. A smile crept across her face as she lost herself to the thought of his sweet mellow voice filling her ears.

“Oh hey Rarity,” a familiar voice called.

“Rarity?” The voice called again. She was too caught up in her thoughts to fully recognize the voice.

“Rarity?” This time the voice awoke Rarity from her daydream.

Her eyes grew wide as she beheld the stallion that stood before her. The unforgettable sweet mellow voice, the blond stylish mane, and his tall refined demeanor were clear indicators.

“Trenderhoof!?!” she replied in astonishment.

“Surprised to see you here,” Said Trenderhoof.

Rarity gasped, but managed to let out a congested reply.

“Eep. Hi.”

The stallion took a seat next to Rarity and requested a message.

“So Rarity,” Said Fluttershy. “You still haven’t told me-”

“Shhh,” Rarity interrupted, quickly placing a hoof over her lips, effectively silencing her. “It’s him,” She whispered.

“Where?” The confused pony asked. “Is it him?” She asked, pointing a hoof.

Rarity quickly pulled down her hoof before Trenderhoof could notice.

“Yes,” She sheepishly replied.

“Well why not ask him to the gala right now?” Fluttershy asked.

“Eek!” was Rarity’s only answer.

She saw him pull out a comb and covertly watched him give his mane a few strokes before putting back into his pocket. As he was putting it away, his eyes met hers. She let out a slightly audible shriek.

“Y-you know,” Trenderhoof said awkwardly. “I didn’t properly thank you for the wonderful tour you gave me yesterday.”

“Oh it was nothing dear. My pleasure,” Said Rarity, giving him a smile.

She remembered the time she spent with him. She also remembered the awkward situation she left him in the last time they met.

“I must apologize for my outburst the other day,” Said Rarity. “It was well… uncalled for.”

“Outburst?” said Trenderhoof, puzzled. “What do you mean?”

Surprised but relieved about his forgetfulness, Rarity remained casual.

“Oh nothing. Are you enjoying your stay here in Ponyville?” Asked Rarity, changing the subject.

“Oh yes quite,” He answered. “I’ve heard many good things about this town. The new princess that now lives here, the spa, the food, all of which allured my attention. I just stopped by Sugarcube Corner. The treats there were simply amazing. I’m thinking about writing about my experience here in Ponyville.”

“I’m glad you’re enjoying your stay. Be sure to stick around for the main event. It’s to die for,” Said Rarity twirling her mane.

“I’m already dying to see what you have in store for us,” Said Trenderhoof. “From the moment I first saw you, I knew you we’re a mare that would add a touch of class.”

“Oh you flatterer you,” Rarity giggled. “Flattery will get you everywhere my dear.”

I can’t believe he’s here with me right now, Rarity thought in delight. Just got to play it smooth.

Rarity’s breath became rapid as anxiety befell her. I have to ask him. I have to ask him out on a date. I may never get this chance again.

She took a deep breath and turned to Trenderhoof.

“Do you by chance...” Rarity’s heart pounded in her chest like a drum, as the rest of her words spewed forth. “have a date for the gala?”

Trenderhoof briefly remained silent in response to the question. A look of sadness came over his face before he spoke. “I had a date… but… I don’t know what happened to her…”

Rarity paused as she heard his words. Oh… Right…

As Rarity’s session ended, she cued Fluttershy, who had been patiently waiting for her, of her readiness to leave.

As Rarity passed by Trenderhoof, she drew close to him and whispered into his ear. “Well if your date doesn’t come through, you know who to call.”

Trenderhoof blushed a bit. “Oh, ok.”

“Farewell.”

With that, Rarity and Fluttershy paid the spa pony for their services and departed.

The two walked together toward their respective homes.

“So, did you ask?” Fluttershy asked as they left. “If you don’t mind me asking.”

“Well not exactly,” Said Rarity, disappointed. “He has eyes for another. So I just sort of gave him a hint.”

Fluttershy’s eyes widened with amazement. “That’s all? A hint? Why didn’t you just ask? Are you giving up just because he has interests elsewhere?”

Rarity was a little reluctant to give an answer, but nevertheless stuttered a reply. “No. I uh”

“You should try to be more assertive,” Fluttershy argued. “I’ve learned that you can be assertive without being too mean or bossy. If I can do it, so can you,” said Fluttershy.

Fluttershy’s inspirational words sparked a hint of greater confidence within Rarity.

“Maybe… Maybe you’re right,” Said Rarity.

“Maybes are for babies,” Said the Fluttershy. “Now you go back in there and make him your stallion.”

“I don’t know, perhaps next time,” Said Rarity. “By the way, have you been taking courses from that monster, Iron Will again?”

Fluttershy, turned and gave Rarity a glare. “Iron Will is not a monster he’s -”

“A minotaur, yes I get it,” Interrupted Rarity, finishing Fluttershy’s sentence. “Never mind, I just hope you don’t go crazy on us again.”

As the two approached their homes, the two said their farewells and departed. Rarity went back to her home to further prepare the layout for the upcoming Ponyville day’s ceremony. She still hadn’t finished preparing her dress, and with the ceremony only three days away she had little time to spare. Once satisfied with her progress on the layout, she went to the store to pick up some needed materials. Once finished she returned to her home to finish her work.

Before she knew it, evening had come and it was already almost 8:00. She felt reluctant to attend the meeting Twilight called for, but couldn’t neglect her attendance for the fact that she was the bearer of an element. Regardless, she figured she knew what would be said at the meeting. Applejack’s disappearance would surely be addressed with a few possible suspects. She began to feel a little bad for instigating the suspicion of Discord as the culprit. Deep down, she knew that the falsity of this notion will eventually come to light. This whole predicament was all an accident. She didn’t mean for any of this to happen.

Perhaps… I should just… well… turn myself in, She thought. Certainly it’s better than feeling like garbage.

But she thought about her dream and how it had ended. This brought intense fear into her heart. She could end up losing everything and then be severely punished. Besides, how could she tell them that she killed her own friend over some pony she just met? A lump of sorrow developed in her throat as she held back the tears.

“Oh Applejack,” She cried. “How could have I been so selfish and so stupid. If only I could go back and change things. If only I didn’t snap over these petty attachments for Trenderhoof. She’d still be alive and I wouldn’t be in this mess.”

She had just about enough of holding in her remorse. Holding a piece of designer cloth to her face to muffle the sounds a bit, she bawled for a minute or two.

“Pull yourself together Rarity. You have to pull yourself together,” she wined.

As soon as she was done, she wiped her face and departed for the library.