Diamond and the Rough

Chapters

Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5

Chapter 1

Diamond and the Rough

Rarity narrowed her eyes. Success was almost within her grasp. She’d been working on the dress before her for weeks. In fact, she’d been up most of the previous night putting in the final touches. “Isn’t this exciting Opal?” Her cat deigned to partly open one eye before dismissively flicking her tail and curling back up to sleep on her corner of Rarity’s work desk. “Why do I even bother?” Rarity sighed before turning back to her work. “Stitch by stitch,” she quietly hummed to herself. “Piece by piece, snip by snip. Croup, dock, haunch, shoulders, hip…”

Soon all that was left was one final seam. Her heart began to beat faster as completion neared. She held up a needle, carefully eyeing it and slowly began to work a thread through it with her magic.

Then the door chimed as it slammed open. Rarity gave a sudden start, whipping herself around—forgetting that she was still holding the needle. The needle encountered Opalescence’s hindquarters, and the cat shrieked loudly and leapt into the air. She landed claws outstretched on Rarity’s back, prompting a similar shriek from her. Pony and cat darted this way and that as they attempted to free themselves from the painful thing sticking them.

Rainbow Dash blinked and watched Rarity’s struggle, unsure of what she had walked in on. “Did I come at a bad time?”

Rarity grabbed her cat with her magic and wrenched her off her back. “Really,” she grumbled, pulling out the needle and depositing Opal on a ponyquin. “Rainbow Dash, have you no manners? Couldn’t you simply have knocked and waited for me to get the door?”

“I guess,” Rainbow rubbed the back of her neck, not really wanting to get into it with Rarity. “Sorry, but something sorta big came up.”

The prospect of what could’ve brought Rainbow Dash to the boutique in such a hurry piqued Rarity’s interest. “Oh? What would that be?”

Digging in her saddlebags, Rainbow Dash pulled out a letter. “I got this letter from Princess Celestia. It’s for the Grand Equestria Summit—” Rarity cut her off with an ear-bleeding squeal.

“The Summit?!” she gasped. “And you’ve come to me because you want me to get you a dress for that most auspicious of gatherings?” Her eyes lit up. “I promise you Rainbow, you will not regret it! I will work tirelessly, day and night and night and day until you have the most amazing, awe-inspiring and magnificent dress to wear to the Grand Equestria Summit!” Rarity raised her hoof to the heavens in challenge.

“That’s not why I came to you,” Rainbow’s declaration was so blunt it almost swept Rarity off her hooves. “I mean, yeah Celestia wants me to go—but it’s not to play host or whatever,” she rolled her eyes. “It’s actually for Luna.”

“Princess Luna?” Rarity soon figured it out. “I see. This would be the first Summit since her return.”

Rainbow nodded. “Yeah. Celestia wants to get ponies used to the idea of their being two princesses again and having Luna at the Summit would help them do that. I mean, you’ve got leading ponies coming from all over Equestria.”

“I can see how that would be a marvelous opportunity for her. Or for anyone, truth be told,” Rarity set about straightening up her boutique. “I’m assuming the Princess wanted us to assist Luna in making a good impression? After all, things have changed so much over the past thousand years. It must be dreadfully overwhelming for the poor dear. The changes in fashion alone—!”

“Yeah yeah, I’m sure the alicorn princesses who almost never wear anything besides their crowns and greaves are worrying about what outfit to wear.” Sarcasm dripped from Rainbow Dash’s voice. “But yeah, that’s pretty much it. Celestia wants us to go to Canterlot where the Summit is to help Luna out.”

Rarity beamed. “That sounds wonderful! The six of us together at the Summit, helping Princess Luna come into her own.” When she saw the uncomfortable look on Rainbow’s face, her smile fell a bit. “What is it?”

Rainbow Dash rubbed her face. “I talked to the others and well, they can’t make it. Applejack’s got something called a zap apple harvest in the next couple of days. Twilight and Fluttershy looked really uncomfortable and nervous about going to this big summit. And Pinkie Pie—”

“I believe I see your point,” Rarity sighed. “That is a pity, but I’m sure that you and I … wait,” she frowned. “Am I the last pony you asked?”

“Um, I guess?” Rainbow shrugged, only to be answered by a full-lipped Rarity pout. “Geeze, what did I do now?”

Her answer came with a Rarity hoof-stamp. “Rainbow Dash, I simply cannot believe you! After all this time you still treat me like a red-headed stepchild!”

Dash snorted. “Come on, you’re making this way bigger than it is. It’s not like you’re my least favorite friend or anything.”

Unsurprisingly her off-hoofed attempt to sooth the irate Rarity had the exact opposite effect. She arched her brow and strode over to confront Rainbow. “Really? Then you do have a least favorite?”

“That’s not what I—” Rainbow sputtered, confused at how things had gotten to this point.

But Rarity continued to press her. “Where am I on the list, hmm? What’s my ranking? Is by number or by something else—perhaps a percentage determined by ‘coolness?’ Tell me.”

“Rarity—” Rainbow Dash was cut off by Rarity leaning forward and jutting her muzzle right in front of Rainbow’s.

“Tell me.” She repeated insistently.

“But—”

“Tell me, tell me, tell me tell me tell meeeee!” Rarity’s hooves danced up and down onto the floor as her voice trilled into a whine.

Rainbow Dash covered her ears with her hooves. “Rarity, cool it!” With a flap of her wings, she lifted herself off the ground and won herself some breathing space.

Her anger spent, Rarity panted as she set about composing herself, slowly counting to ten. “My … apologies, Rainbow Dash. That was unseemly of me.”

“Geeze, what was that all even about?” Rainbow landed, regarding her warily. “What brought that on?”

“It’s us!” Rarity prodded Rainbow’s chest with a hoof, who just looked more confused than ever. “Even after all this time we don’t do anything together.”

Dash shook her head. “You know that’s not true! Just the other day we went to Pinkie’s ‘Day That Ends with Y Party’ and had a great time!”

“Yes, we have a great time together with our other friends,” Rarity allowed. “But you and I never interact on our own. With all our other friends you all have something special you do with just them; such as your competitions with Applejack or your pranking sprees with Pinkie Pie. When you aren’t having lessons with Twilight Sparkle, you’re talking for hours about Daring Do.”

Rainbow Dash shuffled her hooves awkwardly. “Well, I guess we just don’t have a lot of things in common…”

“Really?” Rarity’s skepticism was plain. “I was unaware that you shared Fluttershy’s love of butterflies, seeing as the two of you watched the butterfly migration together.”

“Well, Fluttershy really wanted me to do that with her...”

“You mean like how I want to take you to the spa? Or design an outfit for you?” Rarity pounced, her expression animated with triumph. “You said that the reason you don’t spend more time with me is because we don’t have similar interests. Why is it that you’ll accommodate Fluttershy’s tastes to go on a trip with her but not do the same for me?” Rainbow opened her mouth … but couldn’t think of an answer. Rarity frowned and turned away. “That’s precisely what I thought.”

Her ears wilting, Rainbow lowered her head. “I … I didn’t even realize. I’m sorry, Rares.”

Rarity flared her nostrils. “Yes well, not even realizing you didn’t like being with me scarcely makes it better, does it?”

“You’re right,” Rainbow mumbled. “It doesn’t.” She sighed and turned around,. “I’ll—I’ll just go. I’ll tell Princess Celestia that none of you guys can make it.” Before she could leave, the door became alight magic and closed in front of her. Turning back she saw Rarity standing firmly, her horn still glowing and a determined look on her face.

“Not so fast, darling,” Rarity shook her head, the violet coils in her mane bobbing slightly. “If you wish to make up for your past thoughtlessness, then it’s not going to be accomplished by slinking off to Canterlot on your own. I’m coming with you.”

Now Rainbow Dash was really confused. “Wait, what? First you were ticked at me and now you want to come and help me?”

Rarity nodded, her visage still stern. “If you’re truly sorry, then this is what is going to happen. The both of us will go help Princess Luna fit in to Canterlot society,” she offered her friend a smile. “And have an amazingly fun time while we’re at it, just the two of us. Agreed?”

“That sounds pretty great,” Rainbow smiled. “You’re on! Thanks Rarity, you’re the best!”

“Quite,” the seamstress chuckled. “Between your familiarity with Canterlot and my knowledge of culture, fashion and high society we’ll ensure that Princess Luna becomes simply adored.” Rarity’s eyes glimmered. “Oh I can see it now! She’ll come down the castle stairs to an awestruck audience dressed in a gown of my own making! And you and I will be right there with her for every step of the way!”

Rainbow’s smile became more forced and uneasy, but Rarity was too swept up in her imagined future to notice. Rainbow Dash wanted to say something about Canterlot events, but held back. She didn’t want to come off as trying to rain on Rarity’s parade, especially when they just made up after she’d been a giant heel.

So she sighed and resigned herself to spending a few days back in Canterlot, just her, Rarity and a formerly insane mare of nightmares and darkness … and somehow it was Rarity that caused Rainbow the most concern. Maybe this won’t be so bad, Rainbow Dash thought to herself. I mean, Rarity’s going to help me help Luna. That’s all.

Now if only she could make herself believe it.

The following morning found a Rainbow Dash grumbled as she glared daggers at an all-too-chipper Rarity. It could have been the fact that it was early morning when Rainbow would’ve liked to sleep, the fact that Rainbow had to help drag Rarity’s voluminous luggage, or that they were traveling to Canterlot by Rarity’s preferred method.

“I still don’t see why we couldn’t have taken a train,” Rainbow grunted as the last piece of Rarity’s luggage was secured. A pair of royal guards saluted and yoked themselves back up.

Rarity tsked, a sound that made Rainbow’s hackles raise. “Rainbow Dash, the train is so crowded and loud. A carriage ride sent by the Princesses, and pulled by some very handsome, charming royal guards—” she fluttered her eyelashes approvingly to the two guards, who grinned and straightened up, “—is a much more refined and civilized way to travel.”

“It’s also a whole lot slower,” Rainbow Dash observed, frowning at the insides of the carriage. “And cramped.”

“Pish-posh, that just gives us more time to share each other’s companionship. Won’t that be fun?” Rarity smiled grandly.

“Marvelous.” Rainbow’s deadpan expression left her opinion clear. But once Rarity clambered into the carriage, she had no choice but to get in herself. In front the guards whinnied and began the long trip to Canterlot.

Rarity’s expression turned positively gleeful once they got underway. “Oh it’s so exciting! Just you and me, helping one of the Princesses of Equestria make a good impression to the crem de la crème of Canterlot society!” She squealed slightly, kicking her hooves. “It’s like a dream come true!”

Or a nightmare. Rainbow looked outside wondering just how far they’d gotten. When she saw Sugarcube Corner it was all she could do not to groan. They hadn’t even gotten out of town yet.

Fortunately, Rarity didn’t spot Rainbow’s discomfort and instead attempted to bring herself back under control. “Well, one thing at a time. One mustn't get ahead of oneself.”

“Not gonna get ahead of anything from here.” Rainbow drawled, pressing her cheek against the window.

“Good things come to those who wait,” Rarity chided her gently.

But Rainbow, having heard similar spiels for longer than she cared to remember, wasn’t having it. “Most things don't come to you at all. You have to go out and get them.”

To her surprise, Rarity nodded. “True enough, which is exactly what we're doing today, I should think. We'll get to Canterlot in plenty of time.”

"Yeah, sure." Rainbow Dash fell silent, still trying to get comfortable. Stupid carriage. Rarity cleared her throat, drawing her attention back to her.

“What do you have planned for when we finish?” Rarity inquired, trying to draw her friend out.

Rainbow blinked. “Oh … huh. I didn't really think about it. I guess I thought we'd head back to Ponyville when we were done."

“Oh?” Rarity’s eyebrow raised questioningly. “No plans to stay and catch up with Princess Celestia?” She found that rather curious.

Rainbow fidgeted, only it had nothing to do with a lack of comfort in the confined space of the carriage. “Well, I guess I figured I'd get to do that while we were in town helping Luna. It’s not like there’s any Wonderbolt shows or anything else going on.”

“No other friends to visit?” Rarity asked. “I thought you had that other friend, Vinyl Scratch—the DQ?”

“That’s DJ. And Vinyl’s actually making plans to move out to Ponyville,” Rainbow chuckled. “It’s like all the cool ponies followed my lead and moved out too. I can have a reunion of all my old Canterlot friends back in Ponyville. Except for Trixie, she’s still on the road.”

A disdainful sniff made Rarity’s views on Trixie patently clear. “Yes, well, surely you had other friends besides Ms. Scratch, Cloud Kicker and her?”

“Not really,” Rainbow rubbed the back of her head. “I mean, Shining Armor and Cadance are in the Crystal Empire—I’ll see all the guards and stuff while we’re at the palace—so that’s about it.”

“Really?” Rarity leaned forward. “I confess I’m a bit surprised that there aren’t at least some acquaintances you’d like to connect with back in Canterlot.”

Rainbow snorted. “Why would I want to do that? They were all jerks.” Rarity’s expression radiated disapproval. “Alright, so maybe I was more concerned with my training and trying to do the Sonic Rainboom than to make friends but that doesn’t mean that they weren’t still jerks! We had nothing in common, they looked down their snooty muzzles at me,” Dash grew increasingly irritated. “If it wasn’t for the Princesses I don’t think I would ever set my hoof back in that lousy, stuck-up, head up their—”

“Rainbow Dash, stop shouting!”

“I’M NOT SHOUTING!” Rainbow exclaimed before realizing that she was, in fact, shouting. “Sorry. It’s not you it’s just—unpleasant memories, I guess. We still cool?”

Rarity gave a faint nod. “Of course we are. I’m sorry if I brought any to the surface. Perhaps this trip would be a good time to address them?”

Rainbow Dash, not wanting to talk about it, just grunted before changing the topic. “So … were you planning to do anything else while we're here?”

Seeing the dodge for what it was, Rarity decided to go along with it. “Of course! There's a lovely little store I've been dying to visit for a while now, but I've haven't had the time until now.”

“I know a couple of cool shops in town—there's this one place where you can get discount vintage Wonderbolt stuff going back thirty years. It’s awesome!”

“That old?” Rarity blinked in surprise. “How is it not in a museum?”

Rainbow snorted incredulously. “I’m sure museums have that stuff already—and anyway, you don't put all that stuff in a museum. It’s not that old, you know. Just because high society thinks it’s ‘uncouth’ or whatever to wear an expensive dress more than once doesn’t mean you do that for cool stuff.

“I see.” A hint of frost made its way into Rarity’s voice, sensing an implied criticism of high fashion—including her own. She frowned in annoyance.

Even Rainbow couldn’t completely miss her displeasure, so she tried to recover. “So uh, what've you been working on?”

This time Rarity wasn’t prepared to let it go so easily. “Just a few things I'll throw out after wearing once, I'm sure.” Rainbow Dash winced. Seeing that her point had been received, Rarity sighed and decided not to let things stew. “I take a great deal of pride in my work, Rainbow. And each Wonderbolt has their suit custom-tailored to them, which means many hours of work with unusual materials. I admire that kind of craftsmareship, as I’m sure you would as well when you get to wear one of your own.”

Rainbow gave a reluctant nod. “Yeah, you’re right. I’m sorry. I don’t really get fashion or anything—but I know you work hard, and that’s cool.”

“And I appreciate that, darling.” Rarity offered her a smile. “I’ve always felt that you and I have something in common.” Rainbow had to hear this one. Seeing that she had her friend’s attention, Rarity went on. “We both have the desire to not just succeed, but to excel. That requires determination, hard work, and ambition. That last one in particular is important.” She looked to see if Rainbow was following, and was gratified to see that not only was Rainbow Dash paying attention, but she looked downright contemplative. “While I dearly love our friends, I don’t see the same fire motivating them. Most are rather happy with where they are right now, and that’s not a criticism, mind you. Merely an observation. But for you and I—we have goals that we aspire to, limits we want surpass. Do you agree?”

Rainbow nodded, this time anything but reluctantly. “Hay yes! That’s it exactly! Only sometimes they try to tell you that you’re worrying too much about it, or that you shouldn’t try to be so competitive. They don’t get that if you aren’t competitive, if you don’t put yourself forward—you’ll never get ahead.”

“In that sense, the fashion world is much like the athletic one,” Rarity concurred. “I find it somewhat bemusing how confused some ponies find it that I can still have my own wants and needs, while remaining the Element of Generosity.”

Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes. “Sound like the same dolts who think that being the Element of Loyalty means I have to hang around and do every little thing my friends want. Like I’m being ‘disloyal’ or something if I don’t want to help Fluttershy give Angel a bath.”

“That would be hazardous task going above and beyond the call of duty, I think.” Rarity shuddered. “As much as I adore Fluttershy and our spa sessions together, I‘ve never been able to convince her how awful that little rabbit truly is.”

“Heh, guess that’s something else we have in common,” Rainbow snickered.

Rarity smiled, pleased with how things were turning out. “I believe our views of Angel Bunny are shared by roughly 99% of the equine race. But if you’re looking for commonality, then I must confess, I’ve dabbled with sketches for non-formal wear … even some more athletic garb. The old Wonderbolt uniforms provide a lot of inspiration.”

Rainbow’s ears perked up. “You’ve seen some of the old uniforms? They look so cool! The ones they have now are okay, but they're just … you know. Blue spandex. They’re awesome—but they could be about 20% cooler.”

“Oh, I love the older uniforms!” Rarity exclaimed. “Well, some of them. The bellbottoms and itchy fabric were mistakes, but Flaire De Mare’s designs were simply wonderful! They were more expensive of course, given the blend of materials, but I always thought it was a worthwhile tradeoff.”

Rainbow had to agree. “Yeah the old uniforms were pretty awesome. I really liked the jackets and shades. But the new ones are more aerodynamic and that's what counts in the air.”

“Mm, I suppose that's true,” Rarity conceded. “Function always takes priority over form with athletes.”

With the ice broken, Rainbow Dash kept asking questions. “Been doing anything with the others?”

“Off and on,” Rarity said. “Fluttershy and I have our weekly trips to the spa, and I see Pinkie when I don't have time to cook a meal for myself. She always seems to know when I'm coming, somehow...

“Yeah Pinkie is...” Rainbow paused as she looked for just the right words. Realizing that there weren’t any, she settled for simply acknowledging reality. “She's Pinkie.”

“Quite, yes.” Rarity pondered as she thought about her other friends. “I should get out to see Applejack and Twilight some more. Perhaps once I'm done with the latest round of orders.”

That got Dash curious. “Yeah? What would you do with Applejack?”

“I'm not entirely sure, if I'm honest,” Rarity admitted. “But I feel like I should reach out and do something—we are friends, after all, and I hate to let work get in the way of that.”

“Yeah … good point.” Rainbow sunk down in her seat slightly, feeling worse for not having made that sort of effort with Rarity sooner.

Rarity easily discerned the cause of Rainbow’s sudden ill mood. “Oh, don't worry yourself. You're the Princess's student, and a rather involved godmother on top of that.”

Her words had the opposite of her intended effect. While Rainbow Dash had no regrets or concerns about her role as Dinky Doo’s godmother, the other part she was less certain of. Being called back to Canterlot to help Luna make a good impression on the upper class struck a little too close to home for comfort. Instead of replying directly, Rainbow tried to steer the conversation onto another track. “How’s your sister?”

As she expected, Rarity was only too quick to discuss her little sister--and the headaches that came with it. “Doing very well, thank you. She and her friends have been getting into all sorts of mayhem ... though thankfully, nothing too terrible. Lately.” She paused. “I believe.” With only a little prodding she soon went on at length about some latest incident involving Sweetie Belle and her friends that included a strainer, a whisk, one of Applejack's lassos, and four gallons of marshmallow cream.

Rainbow Dash nodded, offered an occasional ‘a huh’ or other indication that she was listening, just so Rarity would continue going on. While Rainbow liked a good story about mischief and mayhem as much as the next pony, she was more interested in keeping the conversation off of her and Celestia. She looked out the window again and sighed. It was still a long ride left before they reached Canterlot, but part of her didn’t mind it at all now.

Chapter 2

Rarity’s excitement hadn’t slackened by the time they arrived at the castle. She all but leapt from the carriage. “Eeheee! We’re in Canterlot! At the palace!” She squealed, dancing up and down on her hooves.

Rainbow Dash emerged a moment later, feeling sore and sluggish. “Could’ve been here a lot sooner…” she grumbled.

She might as well not have spoken for Rarity was soon tugging on her wing. “Come along Rainbow, you simply must show me around!” Her eyes were practically shimmering as she beheld the shining glory before her.

“Alright, alright!” Rainbow shrugged as she led her to the front door of the place she’d lived in for years, usually bored out of her mind. Two guards stood on duty, who let them pass after a peremptory look. “Hey Silver, hey Steely. S’up?”

Rarity groaned. “Rainbow Dash—those are the royal guards! The pride and elite of Canterlot!” The two guards seemed to straighten up a little further—given they were already in their ‘on-duty mode’ (as Rainbow liked to call it) that was saying something.

“Don’t go on like that in front of them,” Dash warned. “You’ll just give them big heads.” Even the guard’s ingrained impassiveness was strained to the limit at that.

Rarity ignored the byplay, her breath caught in her throat as she reached the threshold into the palace. Her hoof was shaking a little as it slowly set down on the red carpet. Being less patient, Rainbow rolled her eyes and shoved her across. “Okay, so we’re in the castle now. Happy?”

“Really Rainbow…” Rarity grumbled. But her annoyance didn’t last long. “Oh it’s so elegant! I’m—I’m feeling inspired!”

“Not on me you’re not.” Rainbow took a step away from her. “Go be sweaty somewhere else.”

“I said inspire,not perspire!” Rarity quickly summoned her sketch book from her saddlebags and set about scribbling. “Honestly, how can you not be moved by all of—this?!” She gestured broadly at the stained-glass windows, the gardens and pond that lay just beyond them, elegant spiraling staircase, thick, rich carpets and drapes, and high-arched ceilings. Rainbow’s indifferent shrug only seemed to aggravate her more. Rarity harrumphed, tilted her nose up at her uncouth friend and resumed her furious sketching.

Rainbow waited…and waited…and waited…and after three minutes, she loudly cleared her throat. “You about done?”

“Rainbow Dash! You cannot rush creativity! I have so many ideas, I simply must sketch them out before I forget them! I could be looking at a whole new fashion line right here!”

“You are aware we’re here to help Luna, right?” Rainbow’s voice had a strained edge in it that she hadn’t intended.

Regardless, it still had the effect of getting Rarity’s attention. “Is something wrong?”

“No,” Rainbow shook her head—despite not feeling entirely sure herself. “It was nothing.”

“Rainbow Dash,” Rarity closed her sketchbook and put it away. “I want us to be more comfortable around each other. If I’m doing something that truly bothers you, please tell me.”

Feeling once again like a heel, Rainbow dug in her hooves. There was no way she could have this talk without looking like a jerk—especially since Rarity was extending the olive branch. “No, really, it’s fine. I guess the long trip made me kinda cranky. You go ahead and sketch for a bit.”

“I think I’ve sketched enough. The other ideas will keep until later. Now come!” She clapped her hooves together. “I always wanted to see your room!”

“My room?” Rainbow blinked owlishly. “Well, okay, but—s’not a big deal or anything.” She flew up and led Rarity through the hallways, heading towards the room she used to live in when she stayed at the palace. “I mean, I had my stuff sent to Ponyville ages ago—not like I was just going to leave it all behind to gather dust ‘n stuff. Celestia probably turned it into an exercise room or something.”

Rarity clucked her tongue. “Honesty, you say the most ridiculous things sometimes.”

“No, you’re thinking of Pinkie Pie.”

With an exaggerated sigh, Rarity let the remark pass. “Are you telling me that you haven’t been back here since Nightmare Moon returned?”

Rainbow came up short at the sudden realization that she, in fact, hadn’t. She had let Celestia take care of all the logistics and stuff—she never even came back to look the room over one last time before finalizing her move to Ponyville. She’d dropped by to see Celestia, but never her old room. Even she was surprised by her lack of attachment to the room she’d spent years in. Was I that eager to leave?

It was a good thing she knew the way to her old room so well; she was so distracted she could’ve flown head-long into wall and not realized it. She briefly wondered if Celestia would’ve left the room the way it was or if she would’ve changed it all so much that she wouldn’t recognize it … then wondered why both thoughts made her unhappy.

Soon she came to a stop and landed in front of a door with an unmistakable thunderbolt symbol on it. “Here we are,” Rainbow announced unnecessarily. She found herself hesitating and didn’t quite know why. It was the second time she’d felt that way today and Rainbow didn’t care for it. Brushing it aside, she opened the door and walked in. Rarity was in such a rush that she brushed right by Rainbow, gawking at the room. Dash would’ve called her on it, were she not doing the same thing.

The room was spacious, with high ceilings designed to appeal to pegasi who needed a little space. But that wasn’t what drew Rainbow Dash’s attention. While her possessions were now in Ponyville, the furniture was still all there. Hanging on the walls where her Wonderbolt posters used to be, there were now framed newspaper articles. About her.

“This room definitely has your décor stamped all over it,” Rarity quipped. Her smile was gentle though, and soon faded when she saw Rainbow was not smiling or defending herself. “Is something wrong?”

“I—I didn’t do this.” Rainbow pointed to one of the newspapers. “Look—that’s about the Crystal Empire stuff. Long after I moved out.”

Rarity quickly saw she was right. “So it is. I suppose that means that this is Princess Celestia’s doing.” Walking over to a dresser, she saw a several framed photographs of Celestia and Rainbow Dash. “I assume these are hers as well?”

Rainbow nodded numbly. “My photos are back home.” She looked them over, dredging up the details behind each one. “See that one?” She pointed to a photo of herself as a filly—wearing a hat, shirt and waving a pennant, all with pictures of the Wonderbolts or their logos plastered on. Princess Celestia had her wing draped across the excited filly’s back, smiling fondly at her … or possibly at the carrot dogs each of them held in their free hooves. “That’s from the first Wonderbolt show she took me to, about a week after I came to Canterlot. That was great.”

Her smile proved infectious as soon Rarity was too. “Not the most refined of portraits, but very sweet nonetheless.” She picked up another one. “And this?”

Rainbow looked. That photo was of her and Celestia dressed up as sunflowers. “That was from Nightmare Night. We always had some kind of theme going on. See?” She indicated several more pictures on another shelf. “We did this every year … then she’d steal about half my candy.”

“I have heard that the Princess had a bit of a sweet tooth,” Rarity commented. Her eyes fell on the next frame and gasped. “Oh my—you look wonderful!” She grabbed the picture and studied it intently. It was Rainbow Dash, decked out in a high-glass gown and standing by Princess Celestia. “The style, the design—this was from Hoity Toity’s spring line the year he signed an exclusive agreement with Full Tide of Neighpon! It looks splendid on you!”

Rainbow Dash studied it. “Oh yeah, that. That’s from the Grand Galloping Gala,” she frowned. “That was at the start of the Gala because I sure wasn’t smiling like that at the end of it.

Rarity looked aghast. “But darling, you can’t be serious. The Grand Galloping Gala is the high-watermark of all society events in Canterlot! The glamour, the sophistication—”

“Fine, whatever,” Rainbow abruptly turned away. She really didn’t want to get into all that right now. That was when she spotted her old bed—and something laying atop the pillows. Before she could stop herself, she let out a groan.

“What is it?” Rarity looked over and let out a squeal. “Oh my goodness, that is just darling!” Resting limply on her pillow was a stuffed Wonderbolt doll. “You must have loved this.”

Rainbow Dash sputtered. “I—I did not! It’s just some dumb old toy that doesn’t mean anything.”

Rarity gave her a coy grin. “Very well. I suppose I could just ask Princess Celestia the next time I see her...”

Rainbow paled. “You wouldn’t.” The smile Rarity flashed chilled her blood. “Uuggh alright, fine! Celestia got me that during our first Wonderbolt show.” She rubbed her face. “I took the dumb thing to every show I went to for years,” she found herself smiling nostalgically. “I swear it smelled like carrot dogs and lightning discharge—I use to sleep with it and in my dreams … I was a Wonderbolt.”

The soft ‘aww’ from Rarity reminded her that she had an audience. Rainbow blushed and tried to recover her cool tone. “When I got older I tried to put the thing away, but somehow it always ended up back in my room. Celestia always played innocent, but I knew she was behind it.” She rubbed her face. “One time we had an argument about something and I made a point of throwing it out. Next morning? I woke up with the thing in my bed with me. Maybe this time I should drop it off the edge of the mountain…”

“Now now, enough of that,” Rarity tittered. “No need to be embarrassed. Everypony slept with a stuffed toy at some point in their lives. It’s what little fillies and colts do.” She paused briefly and made a show of tapping her hoof against her muzzle. “Although if you did sleep with it as a grown mare, I certainly wouldn’t tease—”

Rainbow let out an outraged squawk. “I did not! That was a one time thing!”

“Do calm down, I’m merely ‘funning you’ as you so often say to me.” Rarity nodded to the doll. “It sounds to me like the Princess didn’t want you to throw away something that had meant so much to you, even if it wasn’t a big part of your life anymore. I think that’s very sweet of her.”

“I guess,” Dash relented as she set the doll back down on the bed, then turned to regard the pictures and newspaper articles. “I don’t even know why she did all this.”

Rarity raised an elegant eyebrow. “I thought that would be obvious—she’s proud of you and kept your room this way so she could have someplace to remind herself of you and the good times you two shared. I imagine she keeps this as a place she can go and think on all the wonderful memories you two shared.”

“Well, yeah, I mean I get all that but…” Rainbow trailed off.

Rarity approached her, gently laying a hoof on her withers. “What is it? And please don’t tell me it’s nothing. I know when it isn’t.”

“I guess it’s—I mean, these are all my accomplishments and stuff. And, don’t get me wrong, they’re awesome—”

“Do tell,” Rarity drolled.

“—but they’re not…” she grunted, annoyed at how hard it was to explain. She pointed out the articles about herself: the Sonic Rainboom, stopping Nightmare Moon, the Best Young Flyers Competition, defeating King Sombra and so on. “I was able to do all those things because I can fly, I can fight and all the stuff that I’m good at, plus I had you girls there with me. But I haven’t done anything she would’ve wanted me to: negotiate peace treaties or write up new laws and stuff. It feels like I let her down, somehow, because I’m not using the stuff Princess Celestia tried to teach me.”

Rarity patted her back. “Rainbow, you’re an exceptional pony—as you’re no doubt aware. But our own skills and likes lay in different directions. You would no sooner want to take care of animals any more than I’d want to work the weather for Ponyville. There’s no shame in that. Nopony can do everything.”

In response, Rainbow just pointed a hoof to a photo of Celestia. “She can.”

“Yes, well, she’s an alicorn, isn’t she?” Rarity tried to reason. “I don’t think you can hold yourself up to that standard—”

“Then why did she make me her student?” Rainbow demanded. “Why would she take all the time to teach me all that stuff if I wasn’t supposed to use it? It felt like we spent forever on all that high society stuff: culture, politics, history, law, diplomacy,” she rubbed her face. “So boring. And I had to go with her to all the high-class events with the high horses of Canterlot. If I’m not supposed to use that stuff, what was the point in teaching it to me?” She couldn’t quite bring herself to ask aloud the other question that underlay it all. Why teach me at all if I wasn’t going to be able to be as good as she is? What was even the point?”

Rarity drew half a step backwards, caught off guard by Dash’s intensity. “I can’t answer all that—”

“Me neither,” Rainbow sat down heavily on her bed. “I don’t know the answer either.”

“Perhaps that something you should speak to her about,” Rarity looked about as if hoping Princess Celestia would suddenly appear. When she didn’t, Rarity tried again. “Rainbow Dash—”

Rainbow waved her off. “Look, I didn’t mean to unload all that on you. Anyway, we’re here to help Luna. Let’s focus on that for a bit, okay?”

Realizing that she’d hit a brick wall, Rarity relented. “Very well. Do you know where she’d be?”

“Celestia said she liked to stay in her tower. Guess that’s where we’re headed. Come on.” Rainbow flew out, casting one last hesitant look behind her.

Luna’s room was at the top of her own tower. Rainbow Dash and Rarity journeyed up the spiraling staircase until they stood in front of the door.

“I do wish I had thought to put on something more formal.” Rarity sighed as she studied the door.

“It’s fine,” Rainbow rolled her eyes. “I don’t think you had anything that would’ve fit anyway.” She tilted her head to the door, decorated with a motif of outstretched bats forming an archway around the heavy wooden door.

Rarity looked it over judiciously. “Point. I don’t suppose we could persuade her to hire an interior decorator…”

Rather than get into that, Rainbow knocked on the door. With a slow creaking moan, the door swung open, revealing the Princess of the Night. “Rainbow Dash. Rarity. Hail and well met!” She extended a hoof stiffly, almost thrusting it into their chests.

Her archaic greeting was readily matched by Rainbow Dash’s informality. “Hey Luna. S’up?” She hoofbumped her.

Rarity’s eye began twitching, unsure of where to even begin. “Yes! Well, it’s certainly nice to see you again, Princess Luna.”

Luna dipped her head. “Please, enter!” She stood aside, beckoning them forward. Rarity elegantly glided into the Princess’ personal chamber—and came short when she saw what lay inside. Stone gargoyles leered down from high ledges and suits of spiked, brooding armor lined the walls. Low flickering candles provided the only source of light—the curtains were closed despite it being the middle of the day, and the ceiling was painted with an accurate reproduction of the night sky. Her expectations and reality had not simply clashed, but had gotten into a seven carriage pile-up that was impeding traffic for miles in all directions. It wasn’t until Rainbow pushed her forward that she realized that she had all but completely shut down.

“It’s certainly … unique.” Rarity smiled weakly.

“Looks like a haunted house on Nightmare Night.” Rainbow Dash murmured back.

Luna smiled, clearly pleased. “Now then—to the task at hoof: preparations for the Equestria Royal Pony Summit!” She looked to her companions. “Celestia tells me that the two of you are more … experienced at such things.”

Rainbow Dash grunted roughly. Rarity daintily cleared her throat. “Yes, well, for one thing it’s not called the ‘Pony’ summit anymore. Equestria is home to any number of species, a number of the delegates coming are not ponies.”

“True.” Luna frowned. “I am somewhat out of step with the modern world.”

“That’s why we’re here to help!” Rarity offered an encouraging smile. “We’ll help you acclimate to your new surroundings and ensure that you make a simply thrilling impact on the delegates. If there is one thing I know, its fashion and working a crowd.”

Princess Luna tilted her head in confusion. “Are those not two things, Miss Rarity?”

Rarity offered a little sigh. “So much to teach, so little time...”

Rainbow shuddered. No good can come of this. She quickly looked around Luna’s room to try to find some other topic for discussion. “Gotta say, I really like the room.”

She had apparently said the right thing, for Luna smiled proudly. “My thanks. I chose the décor myself. Of course, my sister decorated my quarters before my return, but I felt it did not suit me. For some reason, it lacked even a single place for my bats to roost.” She frowned. “It was too … sunny.”

The thought of Celestia fretting over trying to place bats like chandeliers made Rainbow smile. She would’ve paid to see that. “This place looks way cooler than most of the parties I've been to around here.”

“Though it could, perhaps, be slightly more inviting,” Rarity commented, forcing herself to maintain her polite smile as one of the suits of armor let out a groan.

“‘Inviting?’” Luna queried, one eyebrow raised skeptically. “How so?”

Rarity hesitated, clearly uncomfortable with daring to critique the sensibilities of a Princess—but fashion and impressing high society required it. “Well, some ponies might be a bit ... intimidated.”

“Good,” Rainbow snorted. “It’s better to be intimidating than having them walk all over you.”

“It does not strike me as intimidating,” Luna replied. “Merely ... cozy. It has personality.”

“And it’s an awesome one.” Rainbow Dash nodded to her. “So, how're you feeling Luna?”

“Princess Luna,” Rarity hissed softly to her. Rainbow flicked her ear in annoyance.

Missing the byplay, Luna puffed out her chest. “I am feeling most confident, of course.”

“You're going to need that.” Rainbow nodded. “Especially if you’re going to be dealing with the upper crust; they can smell weakness.”

“And a mare who projects confidence is always far more beautiful!” Rarity chimed in positively.

Luna agreed, but from her own viewpoint. “Aye, so I am aware. I would not show weakness to those who might plot against the thrones.”

Both Rainbow Dash and Rarity were briefly united in a shared, stunned silence. “I ... doubt anyone there would be doing that.” Rarity said slowly.

“Neigh, not when I will be keeping a firm eye 'pon all of them, and measuring their worth.” Luna nodded.

“Which is not much.” Rainbow quipped.

Rarity tsked gently. “Now now, there are many ponies of wealth and distinction there.”

“Exactly who I was talking about.” Rainbow drawled.

Princess Luna looked to her. “My sister has told me you know at least some of the ponies—and others that will be coming to the Summit? This is true?”

Sighing slightly, Rainbow nodded. “Yeah, I know some of the ponies who’ll come. Fancy Pants is pretty cool. He's usually the main guy for the Canterlot delegation.”

Luna nodded attentively. “And who else can be counted on as reliable? Who are the ponies of talent and distinction?”

“You're looking at them.” Rainbow smirked.

Luna just smiled patiently. “Aye, that I know, Rainbow. Your accomplishments are well noted, and I think you have not yet been sufficiently rewarded for your heroism.” Rainbow Dash grinned, her wings ruffling with pleasure, while Rarity gave a soft groan, practically able to see Rainbow’s head growing larger. “Is there a boon either of you would ask of me before we deal with the specifics of the Summit?”

“Oh, I couldn't possibly imagine imposing upon a princess,” Rarity demurred. “Though I will keep your most generous offer in mind for the future.”

Rainbow Dash felt an uncomfortable flicker of suspicion in her gut, but quickly forced it down. “Y-yeah, thanks—I’ll just, uh, hold onto that for later. Thanks again.”

“So much for subtlety,” Rarity murmured under her breath.

Princess Luna dipped her head. “Very well then. Though do not think I do not recognize your accomplishments. But back to the Summit--is there anyone else that I can look to for aid?”

Before Rainbow could say anything, Rarity jumped in. “Duke Blueblood is supposed to be attending as well.” A dreamy sigh escaped her, causing her to miss Rainbow Dash’s shudder of disgust. “He is one of the most handsome and eligible bachelors in Canterlot...”

“He's also one of the biggest jerks in all of Equestria!” Rainbow retorted. Rarity’s glower was met with one of Rainbow’s own.

Luna frowned slightly, regaining their attention with a pointed clearing of her throat. “I am more concerned with his ability to govern than his other qualities.”

Rarity sheepishly turned back to her. “Yes, well, he is quite well connected and influential as well.”

“He's also self-absorbed, has his head up his flank and completely full of himself.” Rainbow warned.

Growing irked at Rainbow’s continued cynicism, Rarity couldn’t resist muttering, “Pot, meet kettle.” Rainbow’s wings twitched irritably.

Luna spread her wings, drawing their attention back to her. “If that’s all…?” Her tone indicated that it well better be. Rainbow Dash and Rarity traded wary glances, then nodded to the Princess. Suitably placated by having gotten things back on track, Luna continued. “I will make sure to take the opportunity to gain his measure for myself. In the meantime, what other duties are expected of me as hostess?”

“You have to give the opening speech and lead off the closing dance.” The look on Rainbow’s face spoke volumes about how little she liked the thought of either. “You say some nice-sounding stuff about Equestria and how great it is and at the end you have to dance with the delegates.”

The last certainly fired Rarity’s imagination. “Oh, I can help you learn all the modern dances!” She gasped as another, even better idea occurred to her. “Oooor, we could make the dance retro-themed, in honor of you!”

Luna tapped her hoof against her muzzle contemplatively. “I would like to make the speech more impressive for when I open the night's events. And I think a dance that suits my tastes would be better.”

“That can be easily taken care of.” Rarity assured her.

Warming to the idea, Luna continued. “We will of course need to decorate the rooms being used for the Summit; in addition to providing dishes for my guests and serving their other needs.”

“Yeah, they probably have that stuff in the castle somewhere,” Rainbow agreed. “Of course a lot it is, uh ... you know.”

Apparently, she didn’t. “What do you mean, Rainbow Dash?”

Rainbow couldn’t quite meet her eyes and rubbed her neck. “Well, they have plates and stuff they've used at past Summits. Only it's decorated with, uh, sun stuff on it.”

An awkward pause settled over them until Luna broke it. “I see.” Her tone was carefully reserved. “Dear Rarity, I desire a décor that is more fitting for the princess hosting this Summit. I trust the arrangements can all be made in time for the event?”

“But of course.” Rarity bowed elegantly.

“In the meantime, shall we concentrate on the actual events of the Summit? Rainbow Dash, what more can you tell me about the delegates? These are the leaders of Equestria, correct?”

“Kinda,” Rainbow waggled her hoof meaningfully—which was totally lost on Luna, so she elaborated. “It depends. I guess they used to get all the nobles to come to these things. But Equestria grew bigger and more towns and stuff got started and ponies started electing their own mayors and stuff,” she tried to remember the rest. Princess Celestia had given her a long history the one time she had asked Rainbow Dash to get involved in the Summit. She’d forgotten most of it since then, but remembered a few things. “So now all the cities and towns send delegates—sometimes elected, sometimes picked by the mayor or whoever. Usually smaller towns will just send some trustworthy citizen or something, but some big cities pick some of their wealthier or more powerful hotshots to schmooze and impress the small town delegates and harangue the Princess for more funds or whatever.”

She exhaled, feeling weary just recalling it. “While they're at the Summit, they're going to push how great their city is: they’ll try to get you to come visit, get your picture taken with the local bigwigs, give some endorsements, blah blah blah.” She waved her hoof dismissively.

“But if you visit one place instead of another—or even just visit one place ahead of another—then the other delegates will complain and make it out like you care more about this place than another. So it’s probably best to not agree to anything.”

“Or,” Rarity offered, “your favors could be carefully measured out for maximum advantage.” She smiled, not seeing the sour face Rainbow was sporting. “Something I image you are already quite familiar with, princess.”

“Aye, this I am all too familiar with. Rejecting everypony would make it seem I am inaccessible and scorning all my subjects. Far better to agree to visit the ones I consider most important than none at all. There will be discontent, but I have learned that I will never be able to make all of my subjects happy.”

Rainbow cut in. “Except that if you only talk to the ‘important’ ponies, then that’s just favors the ones who are already rich and powerful and make you look like a snob to the rest of Equestria.”

Now it was Rarity’s turn to frown at her friend. “I’m sure Luna can limit the discontent with the right choice of words. Perhaps we could even help her with that. What do you say?”

She didn’t answer her directly. “Everypony at the Summit is going to want something. If they don’t get it they'll try to bully, bribe or beg you to do it. You have to be tough with them. And if you do give them what they want, they’ll only end up asking for more and more. Either way, if you give a feather, they'll take a wing.”

Luna narrowed her eyes. “I will not be bullied. If they try to do so, I will show them the error of their ways.”

Rarity let out a nervous chuckle. “That’s well and good, but—”

“They're going to push, and hard.” Rainbow stressed. “And when they don't get what they want they start whisper campaigns, spreading rumors....”

Luna’s displeasure was practically palpable. “They would spread slander about their princess? Do they have no decency? They would seek to undermine me already, when they do not even know me?”

“Princess Luna, I think Rainbow is exaggerating...” Rarity again tried to take hold of the discussion, but Rainbow Dash wasn’t having it.

“The hay I am!” Rainbow stomped her hoof. “They don't care about Equestria, other ponies, or anyone but themselves. They act all sweet and nice but it's only because they want something. And if they don't get it, they get nasty. Maybe not to your face, but that's because they’re cowards.”

“Well, if this is the case, then mayhap 'tis time they were shown some proper manners.” Luna pouted slightly. “I told sister that bringing back dueling would do much to improve things, but she gainsayed me.”

Rarity tried again. “Princess, I must disagree with Rainbow in the strongest possible terms...”

“Remember who here has actually been to one of these things?” Rainbow brought up. “Plus plenty of other big events in Canterlot?”

Luna stepped between them. “I will seek out the truth of the matter and act accordingly. Mayhaps 'tis far past time for a ... reordering of things.”

“All I ask is that you not leap to any conclusions.” Rarity pleaded.

“Naturally.” Luna nodded. “You have both given me much to think on. Please, settle in. We will talk more later.”

Rarity bowed elegantly. “Oh, of course! Thank you, Princess.”

“Thanks, Luna.” Rainbow tossed her a lazy salute with her wing. Rarity hissed softly at the informality as they made their way out. No sooner had the door closed than Rarity spoke up. “Really Rainbow Dash, surely you know the importance of a little decorum.”

“Celestia never let it bother her.” Rainbow snorted. “It doesn’t seem like Luna cares much either.”

Rarity sighed. “Rainbow, that isn’t the point! If you address her so informally when she’s in public, then other delegates won’t respect her.”

“It’s all so stupid.” Rainbow whickered in annoyance. “‘Power flows from the accoutrements of power.’” She quoted Celestia. “‘One must maintain the appearance of power to appear powerful.’ It’s ridiculous!”

“It’s what’s expected of them.”

“But that isolates them from regular ponies and just feeds into elitism among the ponies who do have the ‘accoutrements of power.’” Rainbow snorted. “Instead of feeding into the egos of these creeps and changing herself for their benefit, Luna should be challenging them to change! Not just because they won’t respect her if she’s always trying to please them, but it’ll force them to not be so stuck-up, to not look down on a pony who doesn’t look or act the way they do.”

Rarity sighed, exasperated. “That sounds all very well and good Rainbow Dash, but the fact is that there are expectations and if you don’t meet them, then you won’t be given a serious hearing. That is Luna’s task at the moment: she’s been gone for a thousand years and remembered only as a bogey-mare at best, or a monster and potential tyrant at worst. If she acts in a way that reinforces that image—if she throws her weight around to try and force the elites to change now, then they’ll spread that image across all of Equestria. Then everypony—common and elite—will view her that way.” She stopped, looking Rainbow Dash squarely. “Do you think that will make Luna happy?”

Rainbow grimaced. “No.”

“Just so.” Rarity nodded. “Instead of coming into her own, everypony will wish Celestia was there instead of her--the very thing that caused her jealousy and anger a millennium ago.”

“Ugh, fine.” Rainbow shook her head. “So what now?”

That made Rarity pause as she stopped to consider it. “Well, it is getting a bit late in the day … perhaps we should get something to eat and then retire for the evening. Tomorrow we can start coaching Princess Luna for the Summit.”

“Sounds good.” Rainbow led Rarity out of the tower. “I know a good burger joint not too far from here.”

“Rain-booow…” Rarity let out a whine. “You can get a hayburger anytime back in Ponyville! This is Canterlot, home to some of the best restaurants in all of Equestria. Couldn’t we do something a bit more refined?”

Rainbow rolled her eyes. “Come on, an entire Summit with the grand high poobahs of Equestria isn’t refined enough for you?”

She clasped her hooves together. “Pleeease, for moi?” Rarity fluttered her eyelashes beseechingly.

“Ung! Fine, but I’m not dressing up.” Rainbow grumbled. “There’s this place uptown Celestia took me to once or twice. The Golden Chalice. Is that refined enough for you?” She smirked when she saw Rarity’s jaw hang open in surprise.

“T-the Golden Chalice?” Rarity gasped. “That’s only the most exclusive restaurant in all of Equestria! The list for reservations is six months long! We can’t simply stroll in!”

That brought Rainbow Dash up short. “Really? They let me and Celestia in all the--oh, right.” She shook her head, annoyed with herself. “Sorry.”

“It’s … alright.” Rarity offered Rainbow a supportive smile. “There’s always next time.”

Rainbow’s ear flicked. “You know what? Feather it. We’re going to the Golden Chalice.”

“Rainbow Dash, there’s no need--”

“I told you I’d take you someplace refined, and I meant it!” Rainbow waved her off. “They should recognize me. I mean, I am pretty memorable.” She tossed her mane with a smirk. “I’ll make it work. Now come on, or else the only thing you’ll be eating will be my dust.” With a flap of her wings she was off.

Not being given any choice in the matter, Rarity followed her as best she could, quickly grabbing one of her emergency hats from her saddle bag. Perfect for any social engagement. She couldn’t bring herself to simply gallop through Canterlot, but she did settle for a brisk trot. All along the path through the city, Rarity felt her eyes drawn to the white, gleaming towers and glittering high-end stores. She stopped short as she stared at one vacant shop.

Rarity hesitantly, almost reverently, put her hoof up against the empty display window. It was empty, but inside she could see possibilities. My very own boutique...

“Hey Rarity!” She gave a sudden start as Rainbow Dash poked her side. “Come on, we’re almost there!” Rainbow started tugging on her leg. Rarity allowed herself to be led away--while casting one last look back at her vision of a shop of her own.

The Golden Chalice was a posh, luxurious restaurant. Its architecture reflected an older style that reminded Rainbow Dash of Cloudsdale, but with hard stone instead of soft cloud, which she felt made the whole thing little more than a cheap imitation. But to Rarity, it was grandeur at its finest. The entire restaurant clung to the side of the mountain, offering its patrons a panoramic view of Equestria.

Rainbow Dash and Rarity approached the front door, which was blocked by a velvet rope and a waiter wearing a fancier outfit than most generals. His elegantly groomed eyebrow raised itself as the two mares approached. The two stood out, not least for their general lack of attire, Rarity’s hat notwithstanding. “Can I help you?” he asked in a tone that implied that he not only couldn’t help, but wouldn’t.

Rarity daintily cleared her throat, preparing to lay on the charm but Rainbow stood in front of her. “Yeah. Two seats, please. With a view.”

The maître d frowned before tilting his head back with a sniff. “Have you a reservation?”

Rainbow Dash flew upwards, looking inside. “Why do you even need one? The place is half-empty and there’s no line!”

“A reservation is required for all patrons.” The snooty pony sniffed again. “Might I suggest a place more … appropriate for you, like the Hay Burger downtown?”

Feeling embarrassed and conscientious of the attention from the ponies inside watching them, Rarity lowered her hat to better hide her face. That only served to fire Rainbow’s anger. Nopony did that to her friend! “Alright, I didn’t want to do this--but you want my reservation? Check the wall.” She pointed a hoof inside.

With an indulgent smirk, the maître d looked towards a wall dominated by photographs of numerous well-known patrons who had eaten at the Golden Chalice. He turned to look and spotted the photograph of Princess Celestia … sitting besides a mare with an unmistakeable rainbow mane. The color drained from his face.

Rainbow Dash crossed her hooves and began tapping a hoof on the ground impatiently. As much as she enjoyed knocking this stuffed shirt down a peg, she was still a bit irked that she had to name drop the Princess in order to get in. “So are you going to let us in and take our order, or should we be looking for that hayburger joint?”

The two were quickly whisked inside, seated at a table right up against the window. Rarity gaped as she looked down to see the sharp drop off the mountain, the rest of Equestria laid out below them. “Pretty cool, huh?” Rainbow grinned as she checked the menu.

“Rainbow Dash, I--I don’t know what to say.” Rarity put her hoof to her chest. “It’s simply breathtaking!”

“I’ll say,” Dash grunted. “Have you even seen these prices? It’s a good thing I’m putting this on the Princess’ tab.”

Rarity gasped. “Rainbow Dash! Surely you can’t just expect Princess Celestia to hoof the bill. Not on my account!”

“It’s fine.” Rainbow shrugged. “Celestia always tried to get me to eat here more often. Personally, I thought the food here was only okay. The cloud cake was pretty good though … which is probably why she always tried to steal any slices I took back to the castle with me.”

Hesitantly, Rarity looked at the menu. “I really shouldn’t, I mean … the Princess of Equestria paying for my meal and oooh my goodness is that imported crêpe?”

“Help yourself.” There was a smirk on Rainbow’s face. “Luna did say she owed us a favor. I bet Celestia does too.”

“Well … oh alright!” She turned to a waiter, who had been standing patiently to take their orders. After he took their orders, she looked to Rainbow. “This is all a little exciting.”

Rainbow shrugged. “If you say so.” To her this was just a reminder of a life she had been bored with a long time ago. The last time she had even come to this restaurant it was only because a friend had asked. She frowned, suddenly feeling a sense of unease. It wasn’t until she she remembered just who that friend was did she realize why. It was Trixie.

Chapter 3

Rarity had set up shop in her room at the castle. By the next day, it was a riot of sketches, sample fabrics and a host of supplies Rainbow Dash couldn’t readily identify. As soon as Luna arrived, Rarity tossed gown after gown on her. With nothing else to do, Rainbow had sat down to read some Daring Do.

Just as Daring was about to make her escape from the whirlpool of lava, Rarity let out a delighted shriek. “Yes, that’s perfect!”

Rainbow looked up to see Luna wearing a stunning dress of dark blues and purples with streaks of bright silver running through it. Luna tilted her head as she looked herself over in the mirror. “It looks most lovely, but I fail to see how this will improve my standing.”

“It’s all part of your rebranding, Princess.” Rarity explained.

Rainbow Dash gave them a skeptical look. “So … what you’re gonna show off her cutie mark a lot?”

“I do not think presenting my hindquarters in such a manner would enhance the royal dignity,” Luna commented.

“Not that kind of branding.” Rarity barely resisted the urge to facehoof, half-suspecting that Rainbow Dash knew what she meant and was just doing this on purpose. “What we are going to do is show them a whole new side of you.”

Rainbow couldn’t resist the opening. “Well, if you had her walk backwards a lot that would--hmph!” A length of fabric wrapped around her muzzle, cutting her off.

“If you’re quite through,” Rarity said archly, tightening the strip for emphasis, “what I meant was that Princess Luna needs to show off those attributes of her personality that she has not had the chance to demonstrate. Regalness. Elegance. Dignity!” She smiled encouragingly. “You must demonstrate your familiarity with modern society while awing them with your old-world charms.”

Luna hummed neutrally to herself as she examined her reflection. “I believe I understand what you are speaking of; even if my familiarity with the modern world is ... incomplete.”

“That's okay,” Rainbow assured her once she got her muzzle free. “You just have to be cool.”

Luna turned to her, tilting her head curiously. “‘Cool?’”

“Yeah, you know. You have to y’know...” she waved her hoof vaguely. “Make everyone recognize how amazing you are.”

Luna grimaced. “Easier said than done, at least for social occasions, in my experience. It would be simple if I were slaying a dragon or some other great monster, but such is not the case here.”

Rarity gave a nervous titter as she adjusted a hem. “I somehow doubt that will be necessary here, your highness. Now, the reception will features some of the finest musical talent in Equestria: Sapphire Shores, Countess Coloratura, Octavia Philharmonica—”

“And Vinyl Scratch!” Rainbow grinned. “She’s an old friend from my Canterlot days.”

“Yes, yes,” Rarity rolled her eyes slightly. “In any event, there will be no shortage of photographers and paparazzi present: Photo Finish, Fashion Plate, Trenderhoof—if you could be seen with some of the entertainers, perhaps offer some thoughts on music or entertainment or fashion, it would greatly assist your new image; demonstrate that you have your hoof on the latest trends.” She cleared her throat. “We can go over just what the latest trends are; the key is to express your interest in the latest trends, but not be seen as a follower. But you shouldn’t be seen as supporting an unpalatable taste either, so the trick is—”

Rainbow raised a hoof. “Uh, what about if she just gives her own opinion? Radical idea, I know, but…”

Luna smiled slightly. “It is not as though I have shunned all such things since my return. I have even found I like some of the more modern forms of music.”

“Really?” Rarity’s expression brightened. “What, pray tell?”

“I have found I most enjoy a genre called metal.” The princess paused, shooting her a hopeful smile. “Tell me, will metal be playing for the summit? I am sure that would show that I am not completely out of touch with the common pony.”

Dimly aware of Rainbow pumping her hoof, Rarity forcefully maintained her smile, her eye twitching slightly. “Yes, well ... we shall have to see. So, about your dress: there’s sure to be many questions about it. Now, the hemline is hoof-stitched while the patterns on the sides symbolize—”

Rainbow cleared her throat meaningfully. “I don’t think anypony there is really going to care about the symbolism of her dress.”

Rarity frowned at her tone. “Rainbow Dash, could we speak for a minute?”

“Is there a problem?” Luna looked over.

“Not at all!” Rarity hastily assured her. “I just--need to confer with my colleague.”

“Very well then. I think this dress should do fine, in any event.”

Rarity beamed at the Princess’ praise. “I am most glad to hear it! If anyone asks, the appliqué is an incorporation of Zebra woven fabrics while the filigree is based on an update of the classic designs of Hoity Toity.”

Luna blinked and took another look in the mirror. “I will have to take your word on that. How about you two talk while I take care of other matters? There is still much to be done, after all.”

“That sounds wonderful, your highness. Thank you!” Rarity bowed low.

“Of course. Let me just remove this dress and I will leave you two to your own work.”

Luna’s casual remark set Rarity blushing. “O-oh! Um, perhaps it's we who ought to leave...”

Her unease set Rainbow’s eyes rolling while Luna gave her a ghost of a grin. “Is something the matter, fair Rarity?”

Rarity struggled with herself. “It's just that ... my only concern is for the dignity of your ... position.”

“Ah,” Luna nodded as if only now understanding. “Yes, we would not want ponies talking, would we? Considering all the time we have been spending together, it might get all sorts of tongues wagging.”

“Y-yes, precisely.” Rarity gulped nervously.

Rainbow bit down to repress her snickers, but all that did was to draw Luna’s attention to her. “And let us not forget the strapping young athlete.”

“Yeah, uh--wha?” The smile fell off Rainbow’s face in record speed.

Luna nodded. “Oh indeed: you are fierce, fast, brave and strong—all these are admirable qualities to have in a companion. Were it not for my sister’s disapproval, I would gladly seek your companionship.” Dead silence reigned until Luna cracked a smile. “Now then, I shall leave you two to your own … deliberations. I’ll oversee the preparations in the kitchen.” Luna gave them one last wink and walked out.

Rainbow was the first to recover, chuckling slightly. “She sure is something.”

Rarity huffed. “Oh really must you encourage her so?”

“Why not?” Rainbow tried to repress her snickers. “It was funny! It’s great to have somepony like her be so—normal you know? Joking around like anypony else?”

“Because she’s not everypony else and you know it!”

“What, you’re saying she’s better than anypony else? That she should think she’s the universe’s gift to ponykind?” Rainbow looked irritated. “Perhaps we should have them all line up to kiss her hooves whenever she walks into a room?”

“And they call me a drama queen…” Rarity muttered, rolling her eyes. “It’s all well and good to be approachable, but remember who her audience here is: these are the elite. They expect a certain amount of poise and sophistication. She’s not going to impress any of them with her rather … ribald and bawdy sense of humor.”

Rainbow Dash knew from her own experience that she was right about, but wasn’t willing to let the greater point go. “So, it’s more important for her to impress the high-class ponies than the rest of Equestria? There’s a lot more of them than there are the elites.”

“It … depends on the situation.” Rarity bit her lip. “You don’t act the same at a formal function as you would at a slumber party with your closest friends. It’s about what’s appropriate to the situation.”

“Maybe,” Rainbow relented. “Still feels a lot like catering to whoever you want to impress; changing yourself to make a better impression. It feels … I dunno, dishonest.”

Rarity shook her head and sighed. “I understand that this makes you uncomfortable, darling, but the truth is that nopony is the same in public as they are in private. Not even you.” Rainbow scowled and turned away. “That’s not a criticism! It’s just part of life. Now then, let’s try on your dress…”

She didn’t put up a fuss as she got dressed, standing still while Rarity looked her over and adjusted things here or there. Her leg twitched, her hoof tapping impatiently. She hissed every so often as Rarity worked a needle into her side.

Part of her wanted to go to Celestia for advice, but she fought against that impulse. If I go running to Celestia every time I have a problem, I’d never accomplish anything. But she realized that was only part of the cause. She felt like this whole issue with Luna and the elite was the sort of thing Celestia trained her for. If she couldn’t handle this … Then that means that Celestia wasted her time on me. That I’m nothing but a failure. She flinched in a way that had nothing to do with Rarity’s needles.

Rainbow Dash wasn't usually very introspective . She was comfortable doing, not pondering her navel. To her, the sort of deep thinking Twilight was so fond of was like thinking about each individual flap of her wings: if she did that, she’d never be able to fly as well as she did. But now that she had these thoughts forced upon her there, Rainbow wasn’t one to shy away from facing reality.

Ever since she’d come back to Canterlot with Rarity, she’d found herself confronted point-blank with just what she was supposed to do, supposed to be as Celestia’s student. And the more she thought about it, the more she wasn’t sure what any of that actually meant. What was really expected of her? To be a problem-solver, a diplomat like Celestia? Then why is that Rarity is better at this than me? She tapped her hoof in annoyance. What am I missing?

Her ruminations were cut off by a sharp pain in her side. “Ow!”

Rarity rolled her eyes. “Honestly, Rainbow Dash the needle barely even touched you.”

“Sure. This time,” Rainbow Dash glared at her. “You’ve stuck me about a dozen times already.” She turned her head to look at the clock. Forty-five minutes had past. “I still don’t see why you couldn’t have used a ponyquin.” She was just grateful she’d managed to talk Rarity out of having her model her new clothesline. Seriously, what’s the point in wearing clothes underneath your other clothes? Nopony else will even see them!

When she said as much out loud, Rarity took off her work glasses so she could rub her muzzle. “I don’t expect you to understand that my new undergarments will be the avant-garde of future fashion.” Rainbow rolled her eyes as Rarity continued. “As I explained, several times if you recall, that I did not bring any ponyquins with me. While I could have asked for one to be brought to the castle, few ponyquins have wings. It’s important that a dress be comfortable and functional regardless of what position your wings are in.”

“I know that nopony’s going to have their wings standing straight and not moving for an hour,” Rainbow grunted. “Not unless they’ve been looking at PlayColt—OW!” She clasped a hoof to her rear as she was stuck with a needle. “You did that on purpose!”

“I did no such thing,” Rarity replied breezily, stepping away before Rainbow could spot her smile. “Now, the more you keep squirming and fussing, the longer this will take.” Though Rainbow Dash couldn’t see her face, she could practically hear Rarity’s smile. “I should also add that the more you squirm, the more likely it is your hindquarters will become my new pincushion.”

Rainbow Dash snorted and tossed her head, unable to do much more than that. “Just hurry it up, will you?”

Rarity looked at her. “Rainbow Dash, I’m designing outfits for the Equestria Grand Summit--Princess Luna’s debut! Everything must be perfect. It must!” She dramatically draped her hoof across her forehead. “I must leave no design unconsidered, and that means examining all the possibilities until I find the one that screams perfection!”

“You better not take that long,” Rainbow warned her. “I have to go.”

“Hm? Are you meeting with somepony?”

“No.” Rainbow fidgeted. “I mean, I have to go. Y’know?”

Rarity’s mouth formed a small ‘o’ of understanding. “I see. You have to go powder your nose?”

Rainbow Dash snorted. “Why would I have to do that? I just have to pee.”

That caused Rarity’s nose to crinkle. “Really, has nopony told you that in polite society one simply does not announce their business? Having to ‘powder one’s nose’ is the proper way to excuse oneself.”

“Sounds kinda familiar,” Rainbow’s ear twitched as she thought about it for a moment, then shrugged it off. She knew what Rarity meant, but at this point pretending that she didn’t was her own small measure of revenge. “Doesn’t make any sense, though. If everypony knows what you really mean, why bother?”

“It’s about what’s appropriate and … I’m not getting into a discussion about bathroom etiquette.” Rarity declared firmly. “Just … please, indulge me.”

Seems like that’s all I’ve been doing, Rainbow thought irritably, biting her tongue at the last moment to keep herself from saying it out-loud. Instead all she said was, “Okay, fine. Can I go now?”

“Oh, very well,” Rarity relented, using her magic to carefully remove Rainbow’s clothes to prevent them from becoming creased. “I think I have enough of an appreciation for how wings move in order to work on the Princess’ dress.”

“Good.” Rainbow rolled her shoulders and stretched. She looked around the room at the bolts and sheets of fabric that lay scattered every which way. “Do you really need this much stuff? You’re only making three dresses, but you look like you have enough for a dozen!”

“Well, I do want to give Princess Luna some options for the accents.” Rarity answered.

Rainbow sighed. “Yeah, well, okay. That makes sense. S’not like we have to carry this stuff back to Ponyville or anything.”

Rarity made a strangled sound. “Um, beg pardon? I was told that I would be compensated for any purchases I made on behalf of the Princess while I was making her dress—or our own.”

“Yeah, but you don’t need all this stuff,” Dash pointed out. “When you’re done, you can return whatever you don’t use, right?”

“Yes, well,” Rarity cleared her throat. “This is premiere material—some of which I cannot even get in Ponyville.” She traced a hoof over the soft material and sighed pleasantly. “This really is a golden opportunity to work with the highest-quality fabric in Equestria … and really, weren’t you the one saying back at the Golden Chalice that a few bits weren’t that important to the Princesses?”

“I—” Rainbow Dash drew up short. “I gotta go. Be back in a few.” She whirled around and trotted out without waiting for Rarity’s reply.

She navigated the corridors of the castle on sheer instinct. Even though she knew the castle, and Canterlot, like the back of her hoof, Rainbow Dash had never felt so lost.

Chapter 4

The pre-summit celebration was quite the spectacle. Delegates and attendees gathered inside the palace ballroom, intermingling with the musical talent and the crem de la crem of Canterlot. Some of the regular citizenry also had the opportunity to rub shoulders with the elite, albeit in controlled numbers.

All eyes were drawn to the main entrance as the trumpeters announced the arrival of Princess Luna, resplendent in her sleek, stunning silver dress. It sparkled like the stars in the night sky, which no doubt had been Rarity’s intention. Rainbow Dash’s own dress was bright and vibrant, with an array of colors matching her mane. Rarity meanwhile had apparently gone all out. Her gown was studded with gems and layered with alternating swatches of light blue and purple. If anything, Rainbow thought she might have put extra effort into her dress, but tried to set that suspicion aside. Being surrounded by, in her view, a bunch of phonies, Rainbow was all too eager to find something else to do. Luckily for her, she didn’t have to look hard.

Spotting a familiar face, Rainbow grinned and trotted over. Vinyl Scratch—DJ-P0N3 to her fans—was rocking her head as she worked the mixer. “Hey! Hey Vinyl!” But Rainbow’s call couldn’t penetrate her headphones. Some more shouting didn’t do anything to help, and Rainbow was half-afraid Rarity would swoop down on her for not using proper manners when trying to get the attention of a DJ or whatever.

When confronted with a problem, Rainbow Dash knew there were two ways of dealing with it: the ‘proper’ way, or her way. Hers was better. She grabbed a napkin off a nearby table and wadded it up into a ball. With a practiced three-point throw, Rainbow managed to toss the napkin-ball so that it bounced neatly off Vinyl’s head.

That finally seemed to do the trick, Vinyl stopped rocking out long enough to spot who had just beaned her. Her face lit up when she spied Rainbow. “Hey Rainbow-girl!” The famous DJ tilted her head, the light reflecting off her eponymous glasses. “What’s up with you, saving the world?”

“Nah, today I’m slumming it.”

Vinyl laughed. “Yeah, these are some digs, huh?” She nodded to the high-class performers, press and crowd.

“That all you have to say to me?” Rainbow mock-frowned for a moment before dropping any pretense and zipping over to her. “C'mere you…” She clapped Vinyl on the back. “It's been forever! Glad to see you still remember us little ponies ... the little ponies who saved the world, granted--”

“Like I'd forget the most awesome flier ever,” Vinyl grinned and gave her a one-legged hug. “Heard you’ve been busy.”

“Yeah, Ancient evil monsters returning, best young flyer competition, foalsitting, you know.” Rainbow shrugged modestly. “The usual for awesome ponies.”

Vinyl chuckled. “Sounds like you, yeah. You never did things the normal, quiet way.”

“Yeah, like you have?” Rainbow asked skeptically. “The q-word scares you.”

She shrugged. “Eh, you got me. What brings you back to the big city?”

Rainbow tossed her head over to where Rarity was guiding Luna through a crowd of admiring onlookers and parasitic hangers-on; she suspected there were more of the latter than the former. “Princess wanted me to help Luna make a good impression with high society.” She paused. “Actually, now that I think about it, I’m a little surprised to see they invited you here. I mean, you’re an awesome musician and all, but--”

“What, you think I don’t have any class?” Vinyl tilted her head back so she could look down at Rainbow Dash.

Feeling put on the spot, Rainbow squirmed. “That’s not what I meant!”

“No no, I get it. I’m just a dumb disc-jockey,” Vinyl Scratch shrugged. “I should feel honored to be allowed in the presence of such esteemed company.”

Rainbow snorted. “You overplayed your hoof. Now I know you’re putting me on. You’re just trying to guilt me into getting you a free drink or something.”

Vinyl humphed indignantly and mock-glared at her over the rims of her glasses. “Speaking of which, you still owe me for getting me tossed into the drunk tank with you when we first met.” She paused. “Also for having Princess Celestia show up to start lecturing us in the Royal Canterlot Voice when we were hungover.”

Rainbow chuckled sheepishly and rubbed the back of her neck. “Yeah … turns out that sneaking out of the castle after our first big fight wasn’t the smartest thing I’ve ever done. Or, you know, getting really hammered.”

“You don’t say.” She couldn’t be sure, but Rainbow suspected that Vinyl was rolling her eyes behind her shades.

Dash coughed. “Well, anyway, I appreciated that you didn’t ban me from ever coming back to your club … or trying to use me to meet important ponies. That—that was really cool of you.”

Vinyl snorted. “What, that? Please, that was no big deal. You were a friend of Cloud’s and a cool pony to hang out with. All that other stuff doesn’t matter to me.”

“That’s what it should be like,” Rainbow grumbled. “You like somepony or you don’t because of who they are; not because of their connections or because you want something from them or are jealous of them or—”

Vinyl held up her hooves. “Whoa, whoa, rein it in. There something on your mind, Dash?”

Rainbow hesitated. “Maybe.”

“Ya huh. How about if you tell Aunt Scratch all about it.”

“‘Aunt’ Scratch?” Rainbow snorted skeptically. “Way to age yourself.”

“Girl, why you acting so cray-cray?”

Rainbow blinked. “Vinyl, look I know you hang around with a lot of ponies who are big into the newest trends and stuff but … could you never say that again? Ever? I feel dumber just for having heard that. I mean, you could ask me right now what two plus two is, and I’d have to think for a minute before remembering the answer because that was so stupid.”

Vinyl chuckled. “Totes lame, Dash.”

She glared back, before realizing that she was being had again. “Ha ha. Funny Vinyl, funny.”

“I thought so.” Vinyl adjusted her glasses. “And it’s cool, RD. Truth is, there’s a big thing where some buisness ponies want to seem ‘hip’ with where the foals are at these days, so they hire me to drop some beats at their openings. It isn’t the best music scene, but since they don’t really ‘get’ why ponies like me, they give me a free hoof to be as awesome as I wanna be.” She grinned toothily. “It drives Octavia nuts.”

Rainbow Dash nodded, vaguely recalling Vinyl’s kinda-sorta marefriend, a Jura-drinking cellist who epitomized class and sophistication; needless to say, Rainbow never got the appeal. “Sounds like the same old Canterlot: ponies just going with the latest trend to seem important.” She couldn’t quite hide her bitterness.

“Something on your mind?” Vinyl asked. “You’re being a bit of a downer.”

“Maybe,” Rainbow grunted. “It’s just that--you remember Trixie, right?”

“The Great and Powerful?” Vinyl made a big production of tapping her hoof against her muzzle ponderingly. “No.”

Realizing she walked right into that one, Rainbow Dash decided not to dwell on it. “Yeah yeah, dumb question. Anyway, she came to Ponyville a while back and--I found out that a lot of what Cloud tried to tell me about her was true: that she did try to use our friendship to advance herself.”

Vinyl shook her head. “Damn. That sucks.”

“Yeah,” Rainbow sighed. “It wasn’t all bad, though. We didn’t stop being friends or anything, we just needed to hash some things out and I think we’re in a better place.”

“That’s good.” Vinyl cleaned her glasses with her magic. “I’m happy for you.”

“Thanks.” Rainbow sighed. “I guess a real friend is somepony who wants to be around you without wanting anything in return for it.”

“Sounds about right to me.”

Rainbow hesitated. “Hey Vinyl, you never really liked Trixie, right?”

“Hm.”

“So … why didn’t you ever say anything? Cloud tried to warn me about Trixie until she was blue in the face. But I don’t remember you ever getting worked up about it.”

Vinyl shrugged. “Yeah, I knew she was bad news; I also knew that it’s hard getting anything through that thick head of yours without a hammer and chisel, so I decided to save us both the headache.”

“Gee, thanks.” Rainbow frowned.

“Okay, look,” Vinyl tilted her glasses down a bit. “The way you were back then? You were being driven nuts by all the snobs who looked down on you, the Princess telling you what to do, the whole shebang. Coming out and telling you that one of the only three friends you had in this town was a self-serving nag wouldn’t cut any ice with you: you were too grateful to have anypony you could be yourself with. Cloud never got that. The more she argued with you about Trixie, the more you dug in your hooves.” She sighed. “You were so sick of being taught this and being told that, I figured the best thing to do would be sit back and let you come to your own conclusions. Way I see it, life tends to resolve more issues than any argument.”

Rainbow ran a hoof through her mane. “Yeah … I guess you were right.”

“Don’t take it personally,” Vinyl grinned. “You see a lot of stuff when you’re a DJ. Think of me as the wise old bartender. Except not old and still totally hot and stuff.”

“Sure you are,” Rainbow Dash patted her hoof patronizingly. “Sure.” Her good mood didn’t last long though. “So, you don’t think I was a good student?”

Vinyl looked at her warily. “Depends on how you define it, I guess. But if you mean sitting in a classroom, reading books and taking notes? Nah, that was never your strong suit. You can read about something or have somepony else tell you about it—but it doesn’t really become real for you until you experience it for yourself. You let life teach you more than books and teachers. It means you mess up sometimes, but then, who doesn’t? You always get back up there in the end and that’s what counts.”

“I guess that’s true.” However, Rainbow wasn’t feeling all that buoyed by her friend’s words. “What did you think Celestia was teaching me to actually do?”

Apparently, she’d caught Vinyl Scratch off guard with that question. “Um, what? Would you be the pony to know that? Didn’t you ever ask her?”

Rainbow snorted. “Of course I did: she’d give me some vague answer about helping me grow into myself or become a better pony--you know what she’s like.”

“Noooot, really.” Vinyl shrugged. “Look, if you don’t know what she wanted from you, there’s only way to find out.”

An uncomfortable dryness entered Rainbow’s mouth at the thought of talking straight to Celestia about this. It felt like the ultimate admission of failure--she didn’t even know what she was supposed to have been learning all these years. And after everything Celestia had done for her--even the things Rainbow didn’t understand--it felt like she’d be repaying Celestia’s kindness with the ultimate slap to the face.

Then there was the worse possibility: that Rainbow would get confirmation that Celestia had been teaching her for a purpose, one she either didn’t like or one she had already failed at. They sat like lead in her gut.

She looked away, idly spotting Princess Luna speaking with Countess Coloratura. “Hey Vinyl, check it out. You know her?”

"Oh, Rara? Yeah she's cool, when her scumbag producer isn't breathing down her neck, anyway. When he's not around holding her leash, she's a sweet kid." Vinyl lowered her glasses so Rainbow could see her roll her eyes at the thought of him. "Just distract him with something shiny and he won't be a bother."

“Gotcha. Wonder where Rarity is…” She scanned around. “She should be making sure Luna doesn’t mistake her for an actual countess or something.” Rainbow quickly spotted Rarity not far off, talking to a small gaggle of ponies who were looking positively enviously in Luna’s direction. “I should go check that out, catch you later Vinyl.”

Vinyl nodded, putting her headphones back on and returned to blasting out some beats.

Rainbow trod over to Rarity, just in time to hear snippets of what she was saying. “...yes, I’m certain Princess Luna would love to visit your fine establishment, time permitting of course. She’s simply so busy and so in demand, as I’m sure you can understand Ms. Saddles.”

“Please, call me Sassy,” Rarity’s lanky companion insisted. “I understand of course. But surely you can see how beneficial it would be for all concerned, especially since I regularly donate to various charitable foundations in Canterlot. For Princess Luna to be seen contributing to that would be to her benefit.” She briefly paused, before dipping her head. “Of course, we could arrange it for Princess Luna to be wearing one of your designs while she patronizes my boutique.”

Rarity’s tail swished slightly in excitement. Having heard enough, Rainbow loudly cleared her throat. “Hey Rarity.”

“Rainbow Dash!” Rarity turned, smiling widely. “Did you hear? We were just putting the finishing touches on a magnificent opportunity for Luna to--”

“Yeah, I heard.” Rainbow rubbed her face. “Could we talk for a minute? Cuz--”

But Rarity’s sudden gasp cut her off. She grabbed Rainbow Dash and spun her around so she was facing the same direction. “Oh my goodness, is that Fancy Pants?” She squeaked, pointing a trembling hoof over by the buffet.

“Huh?” Rainbow Dash looked over neutrally. “Yeah, that’s him. He’s pretty cool. Not as stuffy as the rest.”

Rarity took such a sharp intake of breath Rainbow momentarily feared Rarity would faint. “You know him? Personally?”

“Yeaaah…” Rainbow said slowly, channeling how she’d seen Fluttershy try to soothe a distraught animal to prevent it from charging her. “You want to go over and say hi or—gyah!” Before she could even finish the offer, Rarity grabbed her by the hoof and led her over to where Fancy Pants stood, other delegates and hangers-on clustered around him.

As they drew close, Fancy caught sight of them. A disarming smile graced his muzzle as he turned to face them. “Rainbow Dash! It’s delightful to see you again. Princess Celestia had told me you would be attending.” He lowered his head and extended a hoof in a gallant gesture. “Who is your charming companion?”

Rainbow heard Rarity’s barely repressed squeal of delight and rolled her eyes. “Hey Fancy, it’s cool to see you too.” She hoof-bumped him, ignoring the scandalized gasp from some on the onlookers—and she suspected, from Rarity as well. “This is Rarity, one of my friends from Ponyville.”

“Ah yes, Miss Rarity of Ponyville!” Fancy awkwardly accepted Rainbow’s hoof-bump and extended his hoof again, this time to Rarity. “I’ve heard talk of an up-and-coming designer who stood poised to make a rather impressive splash on the world of fashion. It’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance.” He gently pressed his lips to her hoof.

Rarity’s powdery-white coat was ill-suited to hide her flush. “F-Fancy Pants … knows me…” she murmured in a tone so quiet even Fluttershy would’ve struggled to understand her. She quickly recovered. “On the contrary, it is I who is delighted to meet you. It’s not often ones gets to meet a pony of your caliber.”

Fancy Pants chuckled. “Says a friend of the Princess’ protégé; not to mention a national hero in her own right.” He looked to Rainbow Dash. “Are you two representing Ponyville?”

Rainbow Dash was quick to shake her head. “No, Filthy Rich and Mayor Mare are here representing Ponyville. We’re just here because—”

“Princess Luna has requested our presence so that we can offer her whatever assistance we can in making this Summit as productive and successful as possible.” Rarity smoothly interjected.

Fancy Pants blinked, clearly impressed. “The Princess asked for you?”

Technically, she hadn’t. Not specifically anyway. Rainbow was about to correct him when Rarity once again overrode her. “Indeed!” She saddled up next to Rainbow. “She’s aware of our unique skills and has entrusted to us the task of assisting her in organizing the Summit. Now, she did have some changes she wanted made…”

Rainbow Dash resisted the urge to bristle as Rarity mentioned some stuff about the order of events, some seating arrangements: all stuff that Fancy—as delegate for the hosting city—would oversee. After a bit, Rainbow started to get an uncomfortable feeling as Rarity asked for certain fashion reporters to be allowed to attend the dance and that she promised Luna would be sure to attend one talk about expansion of the textile district.

She cleared her throat loudly. “Sorry, I think I need to grab some water—Rarity, do you mind?”

Rarity soon picked up that Rainbow wanted to have a word with her. “Hm? Oh, yes, of course. If you’ll excuse me…” Rainbow led Rarity away from Fancy Pants and his hangers-on, leading them out of the room and into an empty hallway. Rainbow made sure to door was closed firmly behind them. “Is something the matter?”

Frowning fiercely, Rainbow skewered her with a glare. “Yeah, I think there is. Mind telling me what all that was about back there?”

“I was doing what we came here to do—to make sure Princess Luna’s first Summit is a success!”

“Really?” Rainbow challenged. “Because it seems to me like you’re arranging a lot of things that benefit you and not her, like getting those reporters from Cosmare?”

Rarity drew herself up. “Fashion Plate and Trenderhoof are renowned journalists and writers. Their reviews carry a lot of weight, especially among the well-to-do. A glowing review of Princess Luna at the dance could make a huge impact for her.”

“And I suppose it’s just a coincidence that you included a fashion journalist—somepony who’d make a big deal about what Luna wore to the dance … which just happened to be one of your designs?”

Rarity colored. “Princess Luna trusts me to design the best possible dress for her. If she hadn’t found a dress by now, it’s because she was not satisfied with what others had to offer.”

“Maybe she just didn’t see why she should have to dress up at all, seeing as Princess Celestia almost never bothers to.” Rainbow shot back.

“As I already explained,” Rarity ground out, “Princess Luna has to make a positive impression on the delegates. Princess Celestia might choose to attend … under-attired, but that’s because she has centuries of experience and support behind her. Princess Luna does not. Plus inviting comparisons of that sort between them could only be to her disadvantage.”

“Or it could just be a disadvantage to your business.” Rainbow finally voiced her suspicion. “After all, if Luna gets rave reviews when she wears one of your dresses, then every high muck-a-muck will fall over themselves to follow her lead and buy from you.”

Rarity’s eyes flashed. “Do you really think that if somepony else had given Luna the perfect dress that I’d still try to talk her into wearing one of mine regardless? I’d never put my desires over somepony else’s needs!”

“You seemed perfectly willing to make it sound like Luna asked for you in particular.” Rainbow observed sourly. “And you made a bunch of promises for Luna about who she’d talk to—without even discussing it with her or me!”

“I’m trying tohelp her!” Rarity stomped her hoof. “That’s the whole reason we came—something you can’t seem to do seeing as you’re preoccupied with trying to make sure she’s at her most abrasive and demanding!”

Rainbow Dash snorted, flapping her wings angrily. “You’re not helping her—you’re helping yourself!”

“I’m helping us both!” Rarity shouted, surprising herself. “That’s what friends do, they help each other! Unlike you!”

Rainbow drew back. “What? What’re you talking about?”

“This!” She poked Rainbow Dash in the chest. “This is what it’s all about with you—yourself! Do you know how hard ponies like me work, just simply to get noticed by the likes of Fancy Pants? And all this time, you had the ear of some of the most important ponies in Equestria and you’ve done nothing with it.” She shook her mane angrily. “Just a word or two to him, a letter, a recommendation—the tiniest little thing and you could’ve opened so many doors for me.”

“So now it’s all about you?” Rainbow couldn’t hide her incredulity—or her anger. “Is that what you want from me now, favors because I’m the Princess’ student? Why not just ask me to get the Princesses to give you a big bag of money and free trip to the Bahamares while I’m at it?”

Rarity almost screamed her answer. “I’m not asking for charity, I’m asking for a chance! To show them all that my works deserves to be taken seriously! Do you know what it’s like, being from Ponyville and not Manehattan or Canterlot? They turn up their noses before they even see my work, because they hear ‘Ponyville’ and think ‘hick!’”

“Are you bucking kidding me?” Rainbow blurted out. “I’m from Cloudsdale—I know exactly how stuck-up and full of themselves the upper crust is in Canterlot is about that stuff. Hay, the entire reason I was even in Ponyville and met you guys was because I couldn’t stomach it anymore and needed a break!”

“All the more reason why you should understand what I’m trying to do!” Rarity insisted. “You know as well as I do that hard work and determination only carries you so far in certain circles—sometimes its reputation and connections are what makes the difference between success and failure.”

“Yeah, I do know that.” Rainbow growled. “And it’s wrong. It’s wrong that good, talented ponies never get a chance because they were born in the wrong town, or their parents weren’t rich. What matters should be what you’re able to do—not who you happen to know. I hate it and I hate being made to play along with it!”

Rarity shook her head. “Right or wrong, that’s the way things are. The ones with power and influence decide what music will be played and the rest must either dance to it, or be wallflowers.” She looked at Rainbow pityingly. “You have the ability to change so many things. With a word you could send the elites flocking to Carousel Boutique. I know that seems selfish to you, but that’s merely an example. Think of what would happen if you were to ask the Princesses to turn to Sweet Apple Acres to provide the apples for the next high-class event. Or if they asked Mister and Misses Cake to cater! You can make an impact, a huge impact in their lives. You know the Cakes have a foal on the way--a few words to the right client could ensure that they never have to want for anything, never live in fear that their parents could lose their business, be uncertain for the futures…”

Rainbow Dash shook her head but said nothing. Rarity took a breath and tried again. “And there’s Applejack’s family. You know how hard they work, and how there’s always a thousand things that need to be done. While they take care of all that; the barn roof sags, the plow rusts and Granny Smith’s hip only grows worse. Even an off-hoofed recommendation or order can give them so much.” Rarity pursed her lips. “I can understand why this makes you feel uncomfortable.”

“I don’t think you do.” Rainbow turned to her. “I got to be Princess Celestia’s student because she saw me perform a Sonic Rainboom. That’s it. You think that makes me qualified to make decisions about all that other stuff?”

“You truly think that’s the only reason?” Rarity asked. “Now, I say this as somepony who witnessed—and had her life transformed by—your Rainboom not once, but twice. Even so, I find it hard to believe she picked you just for that alone.”

Rainbow shrugged, not having a good answer. “Look, the point is—nopony had to do any favors for Celestia to get her to make me her student. I earned it by doing my Rainboom.”

“So because you were fortunate enough to achieve something wonderful and get the recognition due you, it’s everypony else’s fault if they can’t do the same?” Rarity’s tone was dryer than the Badlands.

“That’s not what I’m saying,” Rainbow rubbed her face. “What I meant was that even though I was Celestia’s student—I don’t want to get into the Wonderbolts because of that. I wanted to get in because I’m genuinely good enough to be one of them. You were at the Best Young Flyers’ Competition, you know what I’m talking about.”

Rarity nodded numbly, still amazed at how Rainbow Dash had backed out of the competition. The hype Cloudsdale had whipped up around its favorite daughter—protégé of Celestia, vanquisher of Nightmare Moon and performer of the legendary Sonic Rainboom—had intimidated other talented athletes into dropping out, convinced that Rainbow Dash simply could not be beat. “Yes, I recall.”

“I never wanted to win because of all that other stuff. I wanted to win because I’m an awesome flyer. End of story.” She sighed. “I’m sorry, but if the only way to win is to play that game, make a few deals … then the win won’t be worth it.”

“Sounds to me like you’re afraid.” Rarity’s softly spoken words made Rainbow Dash whip her head around. “You’re afraid that when you do make it into the Wonderbolts—which I have no doubt that you will—somepony, somewhere, will say that you didn’t earn it, but only achieved this by trading favors as the Princess’ student, correct?”

Rainbow shrugged. “I guess?”

That only served to further annoy Rarity. “So, just so we’re clear—you’re saying that your fear of one day being accused of trading influence to accomplish your dreams is so great that you won’t even offer any of your friends the slightest bit of help in accomplishing theirs? Even though you wouldn’t have to lie or do anything the least bit underhoofed. All you’d have to do is tell the ponies who practically fling themselves at you that Applejack, Pinkie Pie and myself work hard and produce quality goods. But that’s too much to ask of you?” Her nostrils faintly quivered. “We work our hooves down to the nub but a kind word to ponies who could make or break our businesses is too much effort for you?”

Rainbow Dash felt her own surge of anger. “You have a harder head than Applejack! Don’t you get it? When ponies like that give you favors they always want something in return … and when it’s the kind of ponies who treat this all like a game where this is all to be expected, what they want isn’t some innocent little thing. They’ll come to you, ask you to do something, say something that’ll compromise you in ways you didn’t even know were possible. They’ll string you along with promises of giving you everything you ever wanted and leave you with a stain that never comes clean—no matter how many visits to the spa you take.”

Rarity lifted her head pridefully. “I suppose it’s easier for you to see it that way—you’re already on your way to getting everything you ever wanted, while some of us are struggling to even be recognized.” In a gentler voice, she added, “Sometimes I think you have no idea how much of a positive force you could play, if you only allowed yourself to act that way.”

It was a long pause while Rainbow thought over her answer. “You said I could change things. Could I change things so that the elites wouldn’t play these games? Where a pony’ll go, ‘sure I’ll give a thousand bits to charity, but only if you convince so and so to endorse my product’ or whatever?” Rainbow asked. “Where ponies trade influence and favor and even ponies’ futures like old hoofball cards?”

Rarity hesitated then shook her head. “No. You could probably shame some of them into behaving better, appeal to the better nature of others who are decent, like Fancy Pants. But no, you could never end it entirely.”

“Didn’t think so,” Rainbow sighed. “I’ve heard that before. The whole, ‘you’ve got to be in it to win it’ or ‘you can only make changes from the inside’ or whatever. Thing is, no matter who says it or why, they all end up the same place: as just one more pony with an angle to work. They become so swept up in the game that they become part of the problem. They want to fix the game, maybe get rid of the worst players … they never even consider that they could end it. Or even should.” She rubbed her face. “Some ponies don’t even see other ponies as ponies anymore, just opportunities on four legs.” She chuckled ruefully. “I mean, remember how you got so excited when we first met? First thing I thought was that you were only interested in me because I was from Canterlot and maybe could’ve helped you with your boutique stuff.”

Rarity looked thunderstruck. “Rainbow Dash … are you implying that I only became your friend because I learned you were from Canterlot? That I wouldn’t have spared you a second thought if you weren’t?”

Rainbow’s eyes widened, realizing in that fateful second how badly she’d stepped in it. “W-well, you did seem to latch onto that when we first talked—”

Trying to defend herself only made it worse. Rarity’s nostrils flared angrily. “So? And you think that if you had said you were from Cloudsdale or Fillydelphia I wouldn’t have wasted another thought on you? Just how shallow do you think I am?”

Rainbow Dash, for one of the rare times in her life, hesitated. And it was the worst mistake she could have made. She saw the flash of anger and, worst of all, hurt well up in Rarity’s eyes. “You do, don’t you?” She whispered.

“I didn’t meant it like that—” Rainbow started to protest.

“I think you did,” Rarity shook her head. “Do you believe I only remained your friend because I found out you were Princess Celestia’s student?”

“I—”

“Do you think that all ponies who enjoy fashion and high society are the same?” Rarity barked. “That because I value certain things you don’t that I’m shallow, petty and manipulative?”

“I never said—”

“You didn’t have to!” Rarity spun on her hooves and stormed away. “You said enough.”

Well, horseapples.

Chapter 5

Of all the loutish, arrogant, pig-headed … oooh, that mare! Rarity fumed. She had returned to the pre-summit celebration, but was in such a state that she knew she’d be off her game. So instead, she sought to calm her nerves with a nice glass of punch.

She looked out over the assembled delegates and guests of honor. The influence and connections one could make by putting the right word in the right ear could advance—or potentially doom—a career faster than decades of working spent toiling in obscurity.

Rarity had no intention of living in obscurity.

She felt as much as saw a shadow fall over her, cast by a much larger pony, and turned to find Princess Luna looking down at her. She had somehow managed to shake the crowd of hangers-on that would normally be following her every step—Rarity suspected her magic had allowed her to slip away. “Oh, your highness, forgive me. Are you enjoying your debut?”

Luna dipped her head. “Well enough. You, however, seem disconcerted. Nearly as much as I was when I learned the so-called Countess Colratura was not an actual noble.” A faint frown creased her brow. “If anypony can assume a noble title, then what is even the point in having them at all…?”

Rarity felt a brief flurry of fear. The very idea that Luna might issue a decree forcing one of the most famous performers in Equestria to change her stage name would not do at all. Recognizing that would do little to assist Luna winning over the populace, Rarity thought it best to steer the conversation elsewhere. “Yes, well, some conventions do change over the course of time. You’re handling it all wonderfully, though.”

Luna’s smile encouraged Rarity immensely. “I certainly hope to grow accustomed to it.”

“I have every confidence that you will,” she assured Luna. “But please, feel free to mingle further. You don’t have to take time away from what is meant to be your night on account of me.”

“I am a Princess, am I not?” Luna asked wryly. “I am therefore free to do as I please, and right now, it pleases me to take a break.” She double-checked her privacy spell, then returned her gaze to Rarity. “However, that does not answer my question: why are you wearing a perturbed look ‘pon your brow?” She looked around, frowning slightly. “And where is Rainbow Dash?”

Rarity felt her smile turn brittle. “She ... stepped out for a bit.” From her own limited experiences with Princess Celestia, Rarity concluded that Celestia would either have recognized her reticence and not pried further or else would have taken her time drawing Rarity out and let her reveal the matter in her own time.

But Luna, as Rarity was being achingly reminded, was not her sister. “I would think that you had more regard for me than to offer such a weak attempt at dissembling. You are clearly troubled, and I would know why. Now.”

Unable to help herself, Rarity flinched and took a half-step away. “Um, I think—that is to say, it's nothing serious, Your Highness. Merely a disagreement between friends.”

Seeing her sudden start, Luna leaned back to give her some space. “My apologies, I did not mean to overawe you. Regardless, a ‘mere’ disagreement between ponies can have lasting consequences.”

“Can, yes, but only if one allows it to,” Rarity cleared her throat awkwardly, not wanting her to dwell on Nightmare Moon. That would somewhat defeat the intent of this whole gathering. “You look positively radiant this evening—have you done something new with your mane?”

“Yes,” Luna raised an incredulous eyebrow. “You helped me arrange it.”

Rarity blinked. “Oh, yes, of course. I apologize, it has been such a busy day.” Without looking away she used her magic to pour them both some more punch. “Might I offer you a drink, Princess?”

Luna accepted the offered drink, but returned to the topic at hoof after a polite sip. “I suspect you are trying to distract me from the issue at hoof with social niceties.”

Rarity sighed. “Very well, since you asked: Rainbow and I had a disagreement of sorts over networking. There are a few large names at this event, and since I was here I thought I would introduce myself.”

“I see. I take it she took issue with you doing so at an event dedicated to my reintroduction to society after a thousand year exile?” Luna kept her tone light and neutral, betraying nothing.

Rarity nodded, hoping that she hadn’t unintentionally offended the Princess. “I believe so. I meant no disrespect to you of course, Your Highness—you were otherwise occupied at the time.”

To her considerable relief, Luna nodded. “I am aware and take no offense. I know how such things are done.” She tilted her head towards the crowd. “I take it Rainbow Dash took exception to this?”

Rarity pursed her lips. “I'll be polite and merely say yes.”

“Hm.” Luna regarded her before idly commenting, “Your hoof is shaking.” It was then that Rarity noticed the wobble in her grip. She stilled her hoof, however belatedly. “I think your argument upset you more than you are saying.”

“I suppose so.” Rarity sighed gently and closed her eyes. “Rainbow Dash seemed to think I was taking advantage of her position—that somepony such as myself would exploit her for my own ends.” She huffed. “Honestly, I'm a bit insulted by the idea.”

“I see,” Luna offered sympathetically. “That is a sharp wound to bear.”

“It's an annoyance, but really nothing you should concern yourself with.” Rarity shook her head. “But thank you.”

Luna guided her away from the table, a quick spell ensuring their continued privacy. “Yet, I can empathize with Rainbow's fears. It is an unsettling thing to not be sure of another pony's intentions—to have them feign friendship when they merely seek favor or are levering influence ... especially for a pony as direct as her.”

“I ... suppose that is true,” Rarity conceded. “I would hope, however, that she would know by this point that's not the type of pony I am.”

“But she did have a pony she thought of as a friend, one she did not think was that type of pony either. And she was wrong, was she not?”

Rarity exhaled, her tone becoming slightly bitter. “Yes, Trixie the ‘Great and Powerful’.”

Thankfully, Luna didn’t seem interested in Trixie. “May I ask what you think of Rainbow Dash?”

Unable to help herself, Rarity bristled slightly. “Well right now I'm quite upset with her. One can understand her concern, but one would also think she wouldn't blow things quite out of proportion.”

“And more in general?” Luna prodded.

Rarity needed little prompting to vent her spleen. “She's brash, impulsive, unrefined in spite of valiant efforts—no offence intended to your sister, of course—and ... still one of the most dependable friends a pony could ask for.” Rarity sighed and took a sip of her punch to steady herself. “It's something of a balancing act, at times.”

“I have had similar thoughts. I wondered why my sister would take on a pony so far removed from her ... usual image.” Luna’s muzzle crinkled in thought.

“Privately, I have wondered much the same,” Rarity agreed. “Rainbow is clearly gifted in her field, what with being the only recorded pony to produce a Sonic Rainboom, but ... well, one wonders how that would fit the role of a royal student.”

“My sister is fond of long-term stratagems, wheels within wheels.” Luna frowned. “I feel she enjoys being mysterious and difficult to fathom. Even to me. It is often infuriating.”

“That sounds like it would get tiresome quickly, especially for an immortal,” Rarity offered sympathetically.

Luna let out a most unregal grunt. “None can get under your skin quite like family—or friends.”

Rarity saluted her with her cup. “I'll drink to that, Your Highness.”

As one, the two drank deeply. Once they had finished, Luna spoke again. “May I ask what your plans for yourself are?”

“But of course!” Rarity beamed, grateful for the change in topic. “I would like to expand my business into other cities—Canterlot primarily, although I shan't turn the opportunity down if an opportunity presents itself elsewhere.” She looked hopefully to the Princess, who appeared almost lost in thought. It was all Rarity could do to prevent herself from moving to downright pleading.

Instead Luna asked, “Say that you do this, you accomplish all that you set out to do—how will you manage yourself?”

Rarity hesitated at this sudden turn. “I’m not sure I follow, Your Highness.”

“It is no small thing, fulfilling your dreams,” Luna explained. “All will want to claim a piece of your success for themselves. You will have ponies vying for your friendship, often with a favor or advantage in mind. You will also face hostility and jealousy from those who resent how brightly you shine. Sometimes, they are one and the same.” Her expression darkened. “It is easy enough to tell friend from foe when you have nothing anypony wants. But it grows much more difficult when you have something everypony desires.”

“Yes, I suppose that’s so.” Rarity idly swirled her drink. “I’m quite prepared for such a situation, Your Highness.”

The Princess gave her a look. “And for how long? Imagine being surrounded by false friends and petulant rivals for years on end, not knowing when kindness is offered genuinely or if fell motives are at work.” Her gaze flickered out over the crowd. Her curiosity perked, Rarity following her gaze. Little tangles of groups had formed here and there, marked by polite laughter and newcomers looking to work their way into the conversation. In the middle of most of them were the more prominent socialites and celebrities, the ponies everypony wanted to get close to: Colratura, Sapphire Shores, Hoity Toity, Trender Hoof, and so many others. All around them were fans and admirers, ponies just starting out who were starved for a little encouragement and recognition. She’d seen all that before, but now she also saw the darker undertones that lurked beneath the glitz and glamor.

Luna went on, “Imagine still that you are not a grown mare aware of the consequences of your success, but were only a little filly who had done the extraordinary and then had to learn that success came with a hidden price.”

“You’re referring to Rainbow Dash,” Rarity stated.

Luna nodded. “Without making excuses or offering apologies for her, I will say that I sympathize with her position. The rigors of dealing with Canterlot society can be taxing even for those who were born into it, or those who voluntarily play the game. She was neither.”

Rarity was suddenly gripped by the image of a young Rainbow Dash approaching one of the groups she’d spotted earlier, asking the ponies if they wanted to ‘hang out’ or watch her do a new trick only to be rebuffed.

Luna sighed. “When I was Nightmare Moon, I tried to sway Rainbow Dash from her course. I told her that I knew what it was like to be denied respect from an indifferent, judgmental society. Thankfully, she did not accept my offer. But I know I struck a chord with her. This,” she gestured at the proceedings with a wing, “is not what makes her happy. She prefers knowing where one stands and trusting them completely, or opposing them openly. That is neither praise nor criticism; it is simply who she is.”

“She’s loyal.” Rarity exhaled, shaking her head. “She’ll keep her faith to friends and foes, come what may.”

“Quite.”

Rarity looked back to Princess Luna. “Are you telling me I should apologize to her?”

Luna shook her head. “I do not think it’s appropriate for me to offer advice on giving or accepting apologies, as I’m more familiar with the latter. Even if I were, I’d still leave the decision in your hooves. I’m not here to tell you that you were right or wrong. You have just cause to be upset with Rainbow Dash. I’m merely pointing out why she has come to think the way she does.”

“I thank you for your insight, Princess Luna.” Rarity dipped her head. “I suppose I need to think things over a while longer.”

“That is wise. If you’ll excuse me, I suppose I’ve absented myself for long enough.” Luna stepped back to party, where she almost immediately was surrounded by a half dozen ponies eagerly wishing to have a word—or merely be seen—with royalty.

Rarity sighed.

“Ah, there’s an expression I know all too well,” a genteel voice chuckled from behind her.

Startled, Rarity whirled around and found herself face to face with a familiar looking monocle and delicate blue mustache. “Oh my—Fancy Pants, I’m sorry I was preoccupied.”

“My apologies. I didn’t mean to give you a fright.” Fancy removed his monocle and cleaned it with his magic. “I expect Princess Luna gave you much to think on.”

Rarity nodded. “Yes, I suppose she did at that. If I may ask—?”

“Was I eavesdropping?” Fancy finished with a chortle. “I merely noticed the privacy spell, and could only assume. Forgive my prompt intuition if it is far too forward.”

“Certainly.” Rarity idly ran her hoof along the rim of her glass. “Might I ask a question?”

“Of course, my dear.”

Barely repressing a delighted trill, Rarity forced herself to stay on task. “It’s been suggested that entering into Canterlot high society is a somewhat arduous undertaking.”

“Indeed it is.” Fancy nodded faintly. “It’s full of gossipers, hangers-on, and blatant social-climbers.” Rarity was taken aback by his bluntness. Before she could think of an appropriate response, he continued. “But that’s not all it is; there are plenty of intelligent, discerning ponies who seek to use their wealth and influence to give back to the society that made them what they are. Part of that involves being judicious about the character of the ponies who seek their favor.” He sighed. “Still, I’ll admit, some ponies only give back because of the good publicity. There are ponies who are concerned less with doing good than with being seen as doing good. I don’t countenance such things myself, but if you’re a short-staffed hospital, a library or museum on the verge of closing, an orphanage in need of a new heater—does it really matter if your benefactor is doing so out of the goodness of his own heart, or for his ego’s sake?”

“That seems a question better left to the philosophers,” Rarity demurred. “I can understand the frustration such attitudes stir up, though.”

“As do I. But that’s how things are done.” He shook his head. “Perhaps there’s a better way, but I’m afraid coming up with one is beyond this old stallion. Who knows? Maybe one day we’ll end up living in the Equalist society that one mare proposed.” His skeptical snort spoke volumes. “But I suspect you’ve listened to me prattle on long enough. I’ll let you get back to the party. If you’ll excuse me, I think I’m needed elsewhere. Good night, Miss Rarity.”

Rainbow Dash flew through the night sky of Canterlot. Even at night, the city shone like a beacon. Conflicted as she felt about returning here, she had to admit that she missed the view. All of Equestria seemed to stretch out beneath Canterlot’s mountain perch. Flying above it all made her think she could simply reach out and grab it all. Maybe that’s the whole problem with Canterlot, Rainbow thought. It’s so separate from everything else, above everything else—it makes everything up here look great and important while the rest is small and insignificant … Also, you can’t find a decent hayburger joint anywhere.

She banked, circling around the city. It didn’t feel right to up and leave like that, but what else was she supposed to do? Have a huge fight with Rarity in front of half the city? That wouldn’t help Luna, or them. She rubbed her face. Rarity doesn’t get how nasty ‘high society’ can get. She thinks she can just breeze in, tell the right quip and do a small favor or two and then boom! She’s got her own shop in Canterlot and all her dreams come true. "Yeah," Rainbow mused exasperatedly, "things don't happen that way."

Her wings flapped faster, almost of their own accord. Her speed picked up, as if trying to keep pace with her thoughts and her growing ire. Once they sink their grip into you they’ll never willingly let you go. If they gave Rarity the contract or the shop she’s always wanted, they’ll ask for something in return the next day, then the day after that and the day after that. If she doesn’t play ball, they’ll whisper about her to potential clients and ruin her.

Rainbow growled. Rarity had the gall to call her a bad friend for not wishing that on her? She flew over the hall where the pre-summit party was being held. As she was about to turn away, she noticed a blinking light on the roof. It looked like the flashing of a unicorn’s horn, but couldn’t be sure who it was. Not sure of what else to do, she flew down to check it out. It wasn’t until she was practically on top of it before she recognized the caster. “Fancy Pants?”

The stately unicorn nodded. “So it is! Good of you to join me, Miss Dash. Might I have a word?”

“You, I—what?” Rainbow shook her head. Of all the questions rattling around her head, one finally found its way to her mouth. “What’re you doing on the roof?”

Fancy Pants removed his monocle and began to clean it with his magic. “I wanted to get some fresh air.”

“On the roof,” Rainbow repeated skeptically.

“Is there any place more airy?” he asked innocently. Rainbow frowned. She hated it when ponies got smart with her by saying something obvious and unhelpful. “But if we’re asking questions, I suppose it’d be my turn to ask you what you’re doing here.”

She wanted to slap her forehead in exasperation. “You signaled for me to come here.”

“And here you still are,” Fancy rejoined. “I’m afraid you might be taking my question a touch too literally, however.”

Rainbow rubbed her face, not being in the mood for twenty questions. “Princess Celestia asked me to help Luna get accepted into society. If you’re looking to make a point, could you just jump right to it?”

Fancy hmmed as he adjusted his monocle. “I suppose I’m wondering why she asked you to do something you’ve never been able to achieve for yourself.”

His bluntness caught her off guard. She could hardly have been more surprised if he took off his face to reveal himself as a cunningly disguised moose. “Um, say what?”

“Well, forgive an old stallion his frankness, but it seems to me that you’ve always struggled with fitting in.” Fancy Pants tilted his head slightly. “Or would you say I’m wrong?”

Rainbow snorted, hating to be confronted with something she’d failed at. She was sorely tempted to tell him off, but knew that’d only further prove his point. She exhaled deeply, trying to take the edge off her tone. “No.”

“Then that makes you a curious choice to aid Princess Luna, doesn’t it?” Fancy raised an elegant eyebrow.

Like I haven’t already thought about that, Rainbow Dash thought sourly, though she forced herself to give him the benefit of the doubt. Fancy Pants was pretty much the only cool Canterlot society pony she knew. “I—I guess Celestia thought I could help warn Luna away from anything dangerous—ponies using her to their own advantage and stuff.” She had plenty of experience with that.

During her younger years in Canterlot, ponies had tried to ply her with compliments and expensive gifts in order to get closer to Celestia. She’d been swept off her hooves by all the fancy stuff ponies were giving her—after all, she had just performed the legendary Sonic Rainboom and been hoof-picked by Princess Celestia to become her student! Wasn’t this simply a reward for her awesomeness? But then came the requests: hint that she should wear this dress to the next Grand Galloping Gala, suggestions about which restaurant the princess should or shouldn’t try, reminders for Celestia about how helpful Sir So-And-So was … eventually, Rainbow realized they didn’t appreciate her at all. It was all because she was Celestia’s student.

After Rainbow told them to go buck themselves, that was the end of the fancy gifts and the kind words. In their place started the whisper campaigns, the murmured disapproval of who the Princess had chosen to ‘waste’ her valuable time and effort on.

Rainbow guessed that’s why she was so willing to overlook Trixie’s own flaws. She genuinely seemed to get Rainbow—at least, to an extent. Trixie was looking to prove herself and not hide her talents away. It had been so long since she could connect with another pony like that, Rainbow had either missed or ignored the signs that Trixie had started to play up her connections too. Still, at least in the end Trixie had shown that as much as she wanted the perks that came with it, she wanted to be Rainbow’s friend more. That was a lot more that could be said for a lot of the high society types Rainbow had to introduce Luna to.

Fancy seemed to accept Rainbow’s answer, at least in part. “That does sound wise. But still, you never really did manage to be accepted by Canterlot society. That begs the question of what aid could you offer? You could advise her regarding what to not do, but it seems you’re a little short on offering advice for what the Princess should do.” Rainbow had no answer to that. “It seems like you and Miss Rarity both have a perspective to bring to the table. A pity you seem to be working at cross-purposes.”

“You spoke with her already, huh?” Rainbow’s feathers ruffled. She couldn’t help but think about the ponies who gossiped about her behind her back, instead of having the spine to actually talk to her. She flicked her ear in annoyance. It was like having this really negative, really naggy voice whispering in her head that saw everything in the worst possible way. “Then I guess you know what happened.”

“I know she’s rather upset at the moment.” Fancy Pants stroked his mustache. “And so are you. You both feel rather strongly about, ah, affairs of Canterlot society.” He raised his eyebrow at his own understatement.

Rainbow snorted. “Let me guess: you’re here to tell me that I’m wrong, that high society isn’t that bad?” She shook her head. “I’ve heard it all before. Celestia wanted me to keep giving them another chance, too—she didn’t seem to get it though. I did give them another chance. Maybe a dozen chances. But every time I tried giving them the benefit of the doubt, it always came back to bite me on the rump!” She paused, wincing slightly. “Uh, no offense to you and Fleur. You’re like, the exception that proves the rule or something.”

“My thanks for that,” Fancy chuckled dryly. “In any event, it’s not really my place to tell you anything. I’d much rather be listening. Tends to be a bit more productive, I’ve found.”

She untensed a bit. She’d been expecting an argument but he wasn’t offering one. The tension in her wings vanished and she shuffled them against her sides. “I’d rather be doing than listening.”

“Oh?” Fancy asked. “Why’s that?”

It took Rainbow a moment to put her thoughts into words. “I’m not saying listening is a bad thing, but when you just listen to the same message day in, day out … it messes with you.” She looked up at him. “Imagine being constantly told that it’s right for things to be this way and not that way. That what you care about isn’t important, that you aren’t important because you like something different or because you don’t act a certain way. Sounds like it’s just a difference of opinion, right?” Fancy nodded faintly. “Yeah, well, if it’s just what one pony thinks, you can just ignore it. But when everypony around you all has the same opinion about you and you hear it all the time...” Rainbow shook her head. “If you hear something too much, even if it’s nonsense, you start to think that maybe there might be something to it. If you spend too much time thinking about it, you let self-doubt set-in and before too long, you end up convincing yourself that you’re worthless because of some utterly stupid reason.”

Rainbow knew that Twilight would never agree. She loved thinking about something from every possible angle, coming up with schedules and plans and checklists—oh Celestia, the checklists. But mostly, she just loved thinking about things for the sheer joy of thinking about it. Rainbow wasn’t like that. She knew saying that would make her sound thick or uneducated, but she didn’t care. If she spent that amount of time thinking about each flap of her wings, each breath she took while she was flying, she’d totally lose her momentum and rhythm. She had to be in the moment, living in the moment. Because if you weren’t going to live in the moment, when in the hay would you?

She shook her head as she looked to Fancy. “If you do that, you’re going to end up totally alone or become so concerned with how to...” she gestured, trying to think of the right word. “To accommodate their opinions that you end up sacrificing your own opinions and your own sense of self-worth.” She shrugged. “Ponies who do nothing but think end up getting tied into knots and tearing themselves up from the inside. They question themselves to the point of paralysis and aren’t able to break out of it.”

Fancy Pants didn’t say a word for what felt like a long time. The silence fell heavily on Rainbow, making her wondering if what she said hadn’t made sense or if he thought she was dumb or something. Eventually, he nodded. “I see your point. I’m certainly unhappy to hear that other ponies attempted to make you feel inferior for not fitting their own ideals. However, are you truly mad at them for saying such things, or yourself for having ever believed them?”

Rainbow flinched slightly. This guy had a talent for going for the jugular. “I shouldn’t have cared,” she admitted. “I mean, I know I’m awesome. Princess Celestia knew I was awesome—why wasn’t that enough? Why did I give a flying feather about what a bunch of ponies I didn’t care about thought?” She didn’t realize she had started shouting until she heard her voice faintly echoing across the (thankfully empty) rooftop.

“It’s been my experience,” Fancy Pants said slowly, giving Rainbow a chance to calm herself, “that ponies who truly don’t care what others say or think are the most arrogant individuals I’ve ever had the displeasure of meeting. How could they be otherwise? If they are convinced they are always right, why would they ever need to acknowledge somepony else’s view?”

Rainbow knew plenty of ponies thought she was arrogant, her friends included. And if she was being totally honest with herself, she could be sometimes. But at the end of the day, she cared too much about what her friends thought of her to totally dismiss them. She frowned, wondering how she could feel that way when she’d just told Fancy Pants all about the danger of letting others control how she thought about herself. Wasn’t that a contradiction? “But how can you ever be yourself if you’re always doing what other ponies say? Once you let somepony else determine your own self-worth, it takes for feathering ever to get it back again.”

“Too true, but you’re missing an important distinction.” Fancy offered a supportive grin. “It is one thing to be aware of other viewpoints, but you shouldn’t feel obligated to act on them if you think you’re correct. But you shouldn’t dismiss them out of hoof either. When it comes to who you are and what you should be—how you see yourself always ultimately rests with you.” He removed an imaginary bit of dust from his lapel. “If you don’t care about what anypony thinks, you effectively shut yourself off from others and become trapped in your own self-delusions. If you take heed to everypony’s opinion, you’ll tear yourself apart trying to please them all, as you said. It’s a difficult balance to find, but I have every confidence you’ll discover it for yourself.”

Oh, was that all? Rainbow Dash fought to urge to roll her eyes. No problem. Should have that knocked out right before lunch. “Celestia seems like she always makes her own decisions,” she observed, not quite agreeing or disagreeing.

Fancy Pants smile turned dry. “Hm, it does seem the way, doesn’t it? But when she makes a decision, she doesn’t make it obvious how much of her own judgment came from herself or from the advice of others. Makes her seem much more mysterious and wise that way.”

Okay, that fit with Rainbow’s own experience with her. That thought made her look at him curiously. “You seem to know a lot about how she thinks.”

“I have been around a while.” Fancy made a show of adjusting his bowtie. “It seems like the mountain was only half as high when I was young.”

She knew he was doing—what was that called? Right, dissembling, but wasn’t really about to call him on it. “Maybe that’s why you can handle all this.” Rainbow sighed slightly. “I wasn’t born in Canterlot. Maybe I just don’t belong here. Maybe I never did.”

Fancy Pants remained ever unflappable. “Come now, feeling sorry for yourself is hardly productive.”

That accusation irked her like a flick between the eyes. “Oh yeah, and flailing about not knowing what you’re doing is just so productive.” She snorted. “Do you have any idea how incredibly frustrating it is? To be good—no, great—at something, but end up being judged on something totally different? Or worse, not even know what that something different even is?” She felt her blood pumping in anger. “How about trying to get answers from a pony who’s spent thousands of years perfecting the art of never giving a straight answer?”

She thought she had him when he went quiet. But then he answered, in a more hushed tone than previously “As a matter of fact—I do.”

That’s when it hit her like a thunderbolt. She’d opened up to him because the way he talked to her seemed so familiar. His demeanor, how he kept himself calm even when she was agitated, getting her to explain her own thoughts without judging her, it was just like talking with her. Rainbow Dash leaned back slowly. “You mean you were—?”

“Surprised?” Fancy Pants chuckled. “I can’t say I blame you. I know I’m not the stuff most ponies would think of when they think of the Princess’s personal student, but then again, neither are you. And that’s the point.”

Um, wow. Rainbow blinked. This was … unexpected. Though when it came to Celestia, she seemed to like getting away with the unexpected so she guessed she should have expected it—but then it wouldn’t have been unexpected and—gah, stop thinking about it. She rubbed her face. “Okay, just—okay. Let’s start again. You were Princess Celestia’s student?”

“Quite.” Fancy’s tone was so nonchalant that he might as well have been discussing the weather. Yep, he had definitely been tutored by Celestia.

She pressed on. “And you’re now this Canterlot bigshot—you practically run the city when the Princess is busy. Is this what she was training you to do?” Rainbow hesitated, almost afraid of the answer. “Is this what she’s training me to do?”

Fancy was slow in answering, which did nothing to allay Rainbow’s fears. But when he spoke, it wasn’t with the yes or no she’d been expecting. “It’s been my experience that Princess Celestia may tell you in what direction to look, but she never tells you what it is you should see.” He looked out over Canterlot. “I’m here because I want to be here. I may not have always known that, but there it is. Your task is to find out what it is you want.”

Rainbow shook her head, barely suppressing a frustrated yell. “I know what I want! I want to be a Wonderbolt!” She’d wanted it for so long it was hard for her to imagine wanting anything else—it was practically a part of who she was. Princess Celestia had gently told her to be careful about investing so much of her own identity and self-worth into a name and blue spandex. At the time, she thought Celestia was telling her she shouldn’t join the Wonderbolts. Rainbow hadn’t taken it well. Thinking about it now, though, she realized what Celestia had been trying to say. But Rainbow still wanted it so badly...

“Then what’s the trouble?” Fancy Pants inquired with his customary aplomb.

“It’s because I didn’t need to be Celestia’s student to do that!” Rainbow snapped. “Yeah, I know that sounds mean and ungrateful, but it’s the truth!” Yes, the extra time and training she’d done with Celestia had certainly improved her flying, but she could’ve gotten a professional trainer to do pretty much the same thing. A personal coach probably wouldn’t have taken the time to teach her about history and philosophy and stuff.

As it was, the progress she had made didn’t feel like enough. It’d be like training intensely and finding out you only improved your wingspeed by two or something. Yes, you’d technically have gotten better, but it wasn’t really anything to write home about.

Rainbow shouldn’t be thinking this stuff! She shouldn’t be thinking about how somepony else could do the job basically as good as Celestia had. If Rainbow didn’t get more out of being her student, didn’t that make her a failure? She sighed. “I appreciate everything she’s done for me—but if it was just going to result in something I could’ve done on my own, then what was even the point of it all?”

Fancy Pants dipped his head. “If you want the answer to that, then I think we both know who it is you’re going to have to talk to.”

That was pretty unambiguous. But then, she’d always known sooner or later she’d have to get the answer straight from the horse’s mouth. No point putting it off any longer. “Yeah,” she finally murmured. “I guess so.” She started flapping her wings, carrying her off the rooftop. “Excuse me Fancy, I gotta go take care of something.”

“But of course.” Fancy had barely gotten the words out before Rainbow had flown up and into the night.