True Loyalty & Honestyby ThePegaKrisChaptersChapter 1: Setting Sights Chapter 2: Assistance Chapter 3: Enlightenment Chapter 4: Catching Up Chapter 5: A Princess and Five ShadowboltsChapter 6: The Final DecisionChapter 7: True Loyalty and Honesty Epilogue Chapter 1: Setting Sights Chapter 1: Setting Sights A few days after the Friendship Games and the introduction of both Twilight Sparkles, the rest of our heroes discuss their plans for the weekend. Rainbow Dash is the first one up so now everybody else is listening. "Alright girls, I'm going to write more awesome songs for our band," said Rainbow Dash excitedly. "You're all going to love them, I promise!" "Well, hopefully they're not absurd like your other ones," Rarity pointed out. "Don't worry, I won't let any of you down," Rainbow Dash replied. "See you later!" As Rainbow Dash goes home, Applejack is the next to tell her plans. But instead, she has something else in mind. Tired and all from school, she starts commenting randomly. "She sure is one heck of a good friend, isn't she girls," asked Applejack. "I wish I could I make up for the lost time during Sunset Shimmer's reign of terror. Ehh, no offense!" Sunset Shimmer sighs out, "None taken...again. I'm still getting used to that," she laughed out. "So what does this mean for you?" "Aww shucks! I don't think I know," A.J. cried out. "Maybe I might just go talk to Rainbow Dash." "Ooooh," Rarity shouted. "Do you know what this means? I think Applejack is crushing on her." "Mmm-hmm," as Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie agreed. "Now y'all wait a minute here," A.J. replied. "I only love Rainbow Dash as a best friend, nothing more! I just...feel really bad for what happened long ago." "We know you feel bad, but come on, Applejack," said Rarity. "You look like you've been afflicted with love, based on your facial expressions!" "...Okay, you win," admitted Applejack. "I guess Rainbow got on my soft side now. You girls promise not to tell her about my feelings?" "Mmm-hmm," said the rest of the Main Six. "Thanks y'all! I'm going home because I'm darn exhausted. I'll see y'all later!" "Bye, A.J.!" replied her friends. "Umm...Sunset Shimmer, what're you thinking of right now?" asked Fluttershy. "Oh nothing," she replied. "I'm still laughing at how there's two Twilights! Hopefully, Principal Celestia doesn't faint." "That is still crraazzy!" Pinkie Pie added on. "I know," Sunset laughably said. "Well what are the rest of you going to do later?" "Another slumber party, anyone?" asked Pinkie. "Sure," everyone else replied. "Let's goooooo!" As it began to turn nighttime, Applejack finally reached her house. Before she had to sleep, she needed to eat. Her other family members also shared what they've done the current day. "Your big brother and little sister really did a darn good job with the business today," said Granny Smith. "Right, kids?" "Eeyup," Big Macintosh and Apple Bloom responded. "We sure brought those apples like they were nothing!" exclaimed Apple Bloom. "I'm very proud of y'all!" Applejack let out. "Is something wrong, sis? You don't look well." "No I'm fine, sugarcube, thanks," A.J. sighed. "I'm...just tired, that's it." "Eeyup," randomly said Big Mac. "Ya sure look like you took a beating and that ain't good." "Look y'all, I'm fine. I think it's time we all get some shut eye, right?" "Right!" said the Apple family. The Apple family went up to bed and waved to each other "good night." Applejack looked outside her bedroom window, wondering what she will do from now on about...her feelings. "Rainbow Dash... I missed you so much when we were younger. How can I make up it you? I...l... I'm going to bed now." Speaking of her best friend, she's struggling as well. "This...is definitely harder than I thought. I got the idea, but I don't know what's holding me back. Is it my friends? No, they would never get in the way of my music or me, in general. Why is my heart beating faster now? Unless...it's who I think it is, I don't know. But she really means a lot to me and I wouldn't get mad at her! ...A.J..." Rainbow Dash falls asleep on her desk, unable to finish her songwriting. The next day awaits for these powerhouse girls. Chapter 2: Assistance Chapter 2: Assistance As the morning sun rises, Pinkie Pie and the rest of the her friends wake up from a very fun slumber party. After taking turns in the bathroom and dressing up, they all head downstairs to eat breakfast. Each one put a smile on their faces after a fun night. "Did anybody else enjoy themselves yesterday because I quite did!" exclaimed Rarity. "Mmm-hmm!" said the rest. "I can't wait to see Sweetie Belle again, even though it has only been one night! Plus, I've got more orders to prepare." "Aww!" said Fluttershy. "I also can't wait to see my cute animals and I know how much they miss me!" "All of that sounds so sweet, but you know what else does?" asked Pinkie. "I think I know what it is," said Sunset Shimmer. "Is it what's between Rainbow Dash and Applejack?" "Tsk, nooo! Just kidding, but you're right, girl." "I just hope that Applejack is feeling better," Rarity replied. "You all know what would happen if she doesn't sleep and I don't even want to see it!" "Right..." Sunset confusingly added. "Anyways, imagine if Princess Twilight knew about this. She might happen to know a lot of love spells. But, let's...rather not interrupt her in her line of Equestrian duties, though it was really nice of you to give her a phone so that she can stay in contact with us, Rarity!" "I know, but her friends in Equestria would probably be confused with why there's something so advanced as that over there," Rarity replied. "Twilight might even find a way to obtain service!" "You want to try?" asked Pinkie Pie. This could be very exciting!" "Sure, why not?" Sunset answered. "I still find it funny that we gave better technology to Equestria, but it was worth the effort of reaching our best friend!" Everyone took a moment of silence as Rarity took out her cellphone and attempted to call Twilight. Surprisingly, she picked up, but she's now holding her phone wrong. Rarity puts hers on speaker and everyone else gets ready to talk. Twilight is still struggling to push a single button, but finally managed. "Gah!" said Princess Twilight. "Is this thing working? Hello?" "Twilight!" shouted her Canterlot High friends. "Ahh, there we go! Hi girls, what's up?" "We miss you, Twilight," said Fluttershy. "We're really hoping you could come back because we've got something important!" "I miss all of you girls, too!" "Umm...we're...right here, Twilight, hehe!" randomly laughed their pony counterparts. "Hah, I was talking to my Canterlot High friends, sorry! You may carry on. So what important thing is it do you want to tell me?" "Basically, Applejack suddenly now has feelings for Rainbow Dash, and Rainbow doesn't realize it," Rarity elaborated. "Hmm, how do I put this? We're telling you this and thought that you might be able to help them come together. Can you please help us?" "Of course I like to!" said Twilight. "But...can you all excuse me for a bit? My brother just came in and he needs me. I'll swing by the portal later! Bye girls!" "Bye Twilight!" as the phones hang up. "Now what we're going to do?" asked Fluttershy. "Our other Twilight is still in bed and we have no one else to help us." "It's alright, Fluttershy," said Sunset Shimmer. "Besides, Applejack needs us to keep quiet, so for now, let's just see how she can do on her own." "Yeah, I agree," Rarity added. "I wonder what Rainbow Dash is up to right now." "She probably rocked herself out last night, huh?" asked Pinkie Pie. As a matter of fact, Pinkie was right about Rainbow Dash's current state. Right now, she wakes up with no clue as to what became of her yesterday. Luckily, she didn't fall back asleep. "...W-what happened? Ah, who cares? I gotta go meet my friends in the city, so now I have to hurry. Later, I might even get a chance... I just hope nobody else will make fun of my awesomeness after...everything. " Our girls did mention hanging out the day before. But this opportunity might make things more intimate for Dashie and A.J. Meanwhile, Sci-Twi finally wakes up and so does her dog, Spike. "Good morning, Spike!" said Sci-Twi. "Morning, Twilight!" replied Spike. "What do you want to do?" "Let's see what our friends are doing right now. I bet they already started having fun!" "That's a good idea," said Spike. "When we meet them, would you mind...introducing me to that girl Rarity? She's beautiful!" "Hahaha!" laughed Twilight. "One day I might do that! But anyway, we must go meet our friends. They texted me at one point yesterday, so we better get going." Sci-Twi and Spike get ready to leave, but hear a knocking on the front door as they approach it. "I wonder who that could be?" Spike curiously asked. Twilight opens the door and gets an unexpected visit from a friend. "R-Rainbow Dash?" she confusingly figured out. Chapter 3: Enlightenment Chapter 3: Enlightenment To her surprise, Rainbow Dash showed up at Sci-Twi's house. She was really happy to see her, but again, had no idea why she did come. Nonetheless, this could either be good or serious for these friends. "What's up Twilight?" asked Rainbow Dash. "Can we...talk for a bit about something important? Oh by the way, hey Spike!" "Ummm...sure!" she replied. "Come in. We were just about to leave and meet our friends, but I didn't expect you to be here." "I was going to see them too, but something came up. I thought, maybe, you can help me with it?" "I'll be glad to!" said Sci-Twi. "What's wrong?" "I...think I'm in love with Applejack," Dashie replied. "My mind didn't think of that at first, but now, it does." Twilight had no idea what to say. With time slowly ticking away, she had to think of something. She didn't want to see Rainbow Dash struggling at this point. "As...friends, right?" she asked. "No, it's more than that," Rainbow Dash admitted. "I see." Twilight started to feel useful. "Since I was claimed to be the best at Crystal Prep, I did study & read a bunch of romance, so I'll give you all the advice you need!" "Oh, thank you, thank you, thank you, Twilight!" as Rainbow tightly hugs Sci-Twi. "You really are a great friend!" "You're...wel...come!" awkwardly smiled Twilight. "But...can you let go of me now, if you don't mind?" "Sure, sorry," as Rainbow lets her go. Twilight got her breath back, but still felt a bit of pain. She thought of how she'd help Rainbow Dash and then, an idea came to mind. "I've got it!" Twilight said. "All you have to do is play it cool and be yourself. When you and Applejack are alone, you should both share anything new and interesting to each other. Eventually, you'll get closer with her." "Well, I'm always cool, but I don't think I can be that way in a time like this," Dash replied. "What if she finds out immediately?" "That's only if you're nervous, but I'm sure you know when the time is right, and when it is, the confession always comes last," thought Twilight. "Anyways, we better get going! Our friends are waiting!" "Right!" said R.D. Sci-Twi, Rainbow Dash, and Spike all head off to Sugarcube Corner to meet the rest of the girls. Meanwhile, Applejack could possibly be the last one to join them. "Wh-what in the hay?" A.J. asked. She had no idea what time it was so she checked out her phone to see. "Sweet Apple Acres! I'm gonna be late! I think I might've been dreaming too much yesterday. Well, that's a darn shame." Applejack quickly gets dressed and prepared, but on her way downstairs, Apple Bloom gets curious. "Where you going, sis?" "Oh, uhh, just to see my friends downtown!" Applejack nervously smiled. "If you're ever hungry, you can either eat what we have here or meet your friends too. So, take care and I love you!" Applejack runs out the front door. "Hmmm...there's something a bit off about her," Apple Bloom wondered. "What is it?" Scootaloo asked as she randomly appeared behind her. "Woah!" screamed Apple Bloom. "Now don't ya' scare me like that!" Scootaloo rubbed her back comforting her. "Ehh, sorry!" she apologized. "I just wanted to see what you were doing, so I didn't mean to scare you. But you're right about your sister acting strange." Apple Bloom pulled herself together and tried to think. "I've never seen her like this before. But I know she's strong enough to watch out for herself, so there should be no problem!" "Yeah, you're right," Scootaloo replied. "I wonder what Sweetie Belle is up to." "Probably missing Rarity," A.B. guessed. "We know what happens when she's not with Sweetie Belle. That poor filly!" All eight of our heroes finally reached Sugarcube Corner and they all headed inside to their usual table. As they all sat down, Rarity was generous enough to offer her friends something special. "Would you all mind if I paid for your usual beverages? I really insisted on this!" "Then go ahead, because we all appreciate you!" said Sunset Shimmer. "Thank you so much!" The rest of her friends were honored by Rarity's decision. "Thanks Rare!" smiled everyone else. "Remember: it's what I live for!" Rarity brought up. She now began to order from Mrs. Cake while everyone else was chatting. "So how was the slumber party?" asked Rainbow Dash. "Aww shucks, I was going to ask that," added by Applejack. "It was obviously fun, but I wished the rest of you could come along!" Pinkie Pie answered. "You should've seen Fluttershy's epic streak on Rock Band!" "You're serious, Fluttershy?" curiously asked again by Rainbow Dash. She nodded shyly, but happily. "Yes, that was truly amazing from her!" as Rarity comes back with everyone's drinks. "Oooh, I almost tripped on you, Spikey-Wikey, sorry!" "You don't have to be sorry!" blushed Spike. Twilight rolled her eyes and giggled a bit. "Anyways, what songs have you written so far, Dashie?" asked Pinkie Pie. Suddenly, Rainbow Dash spit out a little bit of her milkshake as she was beginning to feel nervous, due to what happened yesterday. "Uhhh...I...I..." Twilight looked at her and nodded as a sign of faith. "I was...writing songs about all our victories!" "Hahaha, let me guess," Sunset Shimmer played around. "Is my defeat in one of them?" "Maybe...," sarcastically commented Dash. "But I was unable to finish them." "I'm sorry to hear that," simultaneously said Applejack and Fluttershy. The rest were about to say the same, but it seems that they did the talking for them. "Don't be, girls. Besides, I don't think they would've turned out that good." "No, they would," Applejack reassured. "I...or should I say that we all think your new songs could work out!" She laid her hand on Rainbow Dash's shoulder, trying to cheer her up. They unexpectedly both blushed. "Th-thanks, A.J.!" "Not a darn problem!" Sci-Twi actually finished her smoothie and planned to put everything she said to Rainbow Dash into play. "Uhh, could you girls excuse me? I really need to go to the bathroom!" Even the others, except Spike, noticed what Twilight was trying to do, so they joined her. Finally, there was only two left at the table. "Do you need to go?" asked Applejack. "Because I still can go for another batch!" "Ehh, no thanks," Rainbow replied. "So...umm...what's up?" "Not much, but my family's getting as rich as apple pie!" Applejack laughed as she looked back to the actual sales her other family members had. "Cool!" Dashie said. "Nothing awesome, but I wished something did happen." She was starting to feel more confident than ever and thought of her next move in her mind. "Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh! I think I can actually do this. Now all I have to do is...confess, just like what Twilight said." "Rainbow, wake up!" A.J. whispered in Rainbow Dash's ear. "You alright?" Dash snapped out of it. "...Sorry... Applejack, I...l...lo..." "Ya what? C'mon, you can do it!" A.J. needed an answer, but calmly she heard. "Applejack, I...love you!!!" Rainbow Dash admitted. "I...mean...as more than friends." "Rainbow..." Applejack turned speechless. She started to cry and Dash couldn't tell what kind of tears were coming out. "Applejack, I'm so sorry...if that made you feel uncomfortable!" But, Applejack started running to Canterlot High and Rainbow Dash had to go after her. Eventually, she caught up as they were both at the statue portal. "C'mon A.J... I said I was sorry. I'll do anything to make it up to you!" She was about to cry, too. Applejack finally stopped sniffing and was able to talk. "It's fine, Rainbow," she replied. "To be honest, I need to tell you something too." Rainbow Dash turned around to hear her. "I...love ya too..." Then, everything became silent. The other girls were shocked to see these two gone missing. Pinkie Pie dropped on the floor and screamed, "Dashieeeeeeeee!!!" Chapter 4: Catching Up Chapter 4: Catching Up Rainbow Dash was left speechless and couldn't even process a word. "I...just...but...what?" Applejack finally stopped crying and had to explain herself. "You okay...buddy? If it makes you feel better, then I'm sorry too..." Inside her mind, she tried to think of what the right thing was. Was it worth admitting her feelings for Rainbow Dash? "Yeah, I'm fine," R.D. said. "But you also don't have to feel sorry for me! Are you...for real right now, A.J.?" "Of course I am! I love you so much as a friend, so I thought it could be more than that... It's getting awkward, isn't it?" "Totally not!" Rainbow replied. "I get what you're trying to say and I appreciate that. I love you too as a friend and I also thought it could be more than that because I thought I'd..." "...make up for lost time," they simultaneously said. Dash was a bit relieved but is now confused as to how Applejack figured out what she said. "How did you know that?" "I was thinking the exact same thing last night, before I slept," A.J. answered. "It just came to me and my heart knew that it was right. Sunset Shimmer's still our best friend, but I still remember the darn grudge I had for her when we were younger. Ever since then, I missed you like there was no hay! And when we started to get mad at each other, I was lonely deep down. It's neither her fault, not yours anymore. I'm sorry!" Rainbow Dash put a hand on her heart. She knew she was about to cry, but couldn't do it. "I'm sorry too and it's all good now! I did the same thing you did a couple of years ago and I still couldn't forget that. My heart was telling me too that it was wrong to get mad at you, whether I was tricked or not. Sunset's definitely a good friend now and we don't want to get mad at her this time!" The two girls were in awe and they started hugging each other. "Remember when we first bought Rarity's Wondercolt merchandise?" as Applejack looked up. "How could I forget?" R.D. considered. "All the students at Canterlot High still adore them today! It was all thanks to our friendship with Twilight, and you know which one it is." "Eeyup, our beloved pony princess friend." A.J. elaborated. Meanwhile, the rest of the friends are looking desperately for the two "lovebirds" as all of them are on the phone speaker. They all had firm looks. "She's not at Sweet Apple Acres!" Rarity confirmed. "No sign of Rainbow Dash in the music store," Sci-Twi checked. "Applejack's definitely not at Flim and Flam's emporium, though I really, really wanted that play horse!" Pinkie Pie confirmed. "They haven't come back to Sugarcube Corner, either," Sunset Shimmer confirmed. "Umm...gym's clear," said Fluttershy. She sees Bulk Biceps lifting barbells without a sweat. "Yeahhhh!!!" "Where could those two girls be?" Rarity worried. However, Spike thought of the obvious and genius. "Twilight, can I get the phone real quick?" She lays it gently on the ground. "Girls, how could you forget the one place that you meet each other at almost everyday?" All of them got Spike's idea. "Canterlot High!" Rarity made a kissing sound on the phone. "Thank you, Spikey-Wikey!" And so, they head off to the school. "What would they be doing at the school around this time?" Sunset asked while running. "Did they finally do it?" "I don't even want to guess," replied Fluttershy. "I just hope nothing bad happened to them!" "Darling, they're absolutely fine!" Rarity reassured. "They're quite possibly the strongest friends we have and they barely get in trouble." Pinkie Pie was skipping and skipping while imagining the future. "I'm so proud of that Dashie! Hopefully she won't forget about me later on, and the same goes for my uncertain cousin but good friend, Applejack! Why do I still cry tears of joy?" Everyone else just scooted over a bit from her, as they all were weirded out. "Almost there!" Sunset said. "I think I can see them from here. Hopefully, we didn't come at the wrong time!" When all the girls and Spike stopped by Canterlot High, they couldn't allow themselves to be noticed, so they stood around a corner of the front. Rainbow Dash and Applejack finally finished their conversation and moved on to something more they consider to be more important. "Hehe, good times, good times!" said Dashie. "Oh my gosh, it's getting late! I also promised Scootaloo that we're having a sleepover. I need to go!" "Oooh, you got that right," replied A.J. "I think my family's pretty worked up after today's business, so it looks like I'm in charge of the pack. I'll see ya tomorrow!" However, to make things more intimate, they turned around and faced each other directly. Instead of a usual hug, they passionately kissed. "I...love you!" they both said. "Hey, do you hear something? Nah!" It turns out that their friends are still right around the corner as they giggled from what they heard. But as the day ends, everyone decided to return home at last. As Rainbow Dash met Scootaloo along the way, they had to share their "awesome" stories. "I just pulled off some of the best tricks of my life!" Scootaloo exclaimed. "I wish you were there to experience them!" "Yeah, I also wish that," Rainbow replied. Scootaloo notices her lips to be wet from Applejack's kiss, still. She doesn't mind it at first, though. "So...what'd you do today?" Rainbow Dash gulped for her life. "Oh, I...uhh...was with my friends, as usual, heh!" She immediately dried her lips. "If you're also curious, I was writing new songs too! You'll be amazed when you hear them!" "Awesome!" Scootaloo yelled. "I can't wait to hear them! I'm really glad that you're my big sister, even though...it's not really true." She frowns to Rainbow. "Oh, don't be sad, squirt! I'm also glad that you're my little sister, even though that's not true either. But nevertheless, I'll always look out for you. Now come here!" They started to hug each other and they finally reached Rainbow Dash's house. "Thanks for letting me spend the night here!" said Scootaloo. "Nice place, by the way!" Rainbow Dash winked. "No problem and yeah, I know! Now you go and make yourself comfortable while I have to go do something upstairs. I'll be back down in a bit! She heads to her bedroom, but realizes she's in a tight situation. She looks out her window and relates back to earlier. "What was I doing? Did I make the right choice and even if it was, was it right enough? Just calm down, Dashie! Applejack's always been a great friend, but I really don't know if I'm ready for this kind of relationship. Maybe she'll understand...but for now, let's just see how this goes." Rainbow suddenly falls asleep. At Sweet Apple Acres, A.J.'s doing the exact same thing. "Shoot! I think my chance was just wasted by a galloping mile! Rainbow...is my best friend, she always has been. What did I possibly do wrong back there? No, it ain't my tears, but I'm still worried about that. So why...am I feeling that this is wrong for me? I don't know anymore..." Applejack suddenly falls asleep. Chapter 5: A Princess and Five ShadowboltsIt was still the middle of the night and Scootaloo was still over at Rainbow Dash's house. She was starting to feel worried that something might've happened to her, so she went upstairs to her bedroom and the door was already open. "Oh Rainbow Dash! You're starting to sleep without me?" She yawned. "I guess...it's time for me to sleep too." She hugged her like a real sister and began to sleep by her side. "Ah, good night..." The next morning, Dash woke up and was happy to see Scootaloo in the same bed with her. "I hope you slept well, kid! Hmm, who's calling me? Hello?" "Umm...good morning Rainbow Dash!" said Fluttershy. "Where did you...go? We were worried about you and Applejack." She had to pretend that she wasn't spying on them at Canterlot High. "Hey Fluttershy," R.D. replied. "I'm...fine! I think we both had to get home early, if you know what I'm saying!" Fluttershy looked confused. "Well...as long as you're both happy, then so are we! So do you have any plans today?" Her friend became alarmed. "Oooh, I...don't know! What day is it today?" Fluttershy said, "Sunday. Rarity, this world's Twilight, and I will all go to the nail salon later. Maybe...you can join us?" "M-maybe," Dashie said back. "But for now, I'm going to see...our other friends." Fluttershy had an idea for who they were. "Oh, them! Well, I hope you have fun! And remember, your friends are there for you if you need anything!" "Thanks Fluttershy and maybe I'll join you girls later! See ya!" They both hanged up and carried on. Once again, Equestrian Twilight was able to go back to the other world in order to help her friends. But she had to do just a few things before she could step through the mirror. "I'll be back as soon as I can, big brother! My friends over there really need me!" "We know you can fix whatever problems they have," Shining Armor said. "Cadance and I have our hearts on you, which is a sign of our faith." Princess Cadance puts down Flurry Heart in her cradle to help Twilight even more. "Also, Twilight, take this." She lends her a special charm. "What's this?" Twilight assumed. "This necklace, when worn, gives the holder the ability to be destined with the right one for him or her. My magic can sense love from anywhere, even in another dimension, and since I know who you're giving it to, there shouldn't be a problem." "But what if I can't get...one of them to wear it?" Twilight asked. "Will I fail?" "You won't," Cadance said. "Like your brother has said, we have faith in you and even if you do fail, it's not your fault. We know you always try your hardest!" "Thank you all," Twilight said as she hugged her family. "I must go and tell Flurry Heart that I'll be back." The baby woke up and looked at her. "Bye-bye!" Twilight was in awe and finally said her goodbyes to everypony in the room. She finally stepped through the mirror. When she reached the other side, she didn't expect Pinkie Pie and Sunset Shimmer waiting right in front of the Wondercolts' statue. "Twilight!!!" She was happy to see them, but had to gather herself for a bit. "H-hey girls! How did you know that I would be here at this time?" Sunset rolled her eyes and laughed. "It's Pinkie's hunch, remember? Anyway, let's sit at the stairs. Pinkie, c'mon!" "Comingggg! This is going to be super duper fun!" As they all sat down, Twilight had to get an explanation. "So how...are those two? Did they finally get together?" "They did, but we don't know if it's officially true yet," Sunset replied. "Applejack's not here, but I'm pretty sure she still doesn't want to be get caught with us by Rainbow Dash. Remember, if a secret that we know is revealed at the wrong time, we're to blame then." "You're right," Pinkie added. "I wonder what Dashie is doing right now." "Probably doing awesome things again!" Twilight chuckled. "There's no need for them to be afraid, but a secret is a secret. Do you want to see if Applejack's awake?" "Let's go, there's no time to waste!" Sunset acknowledged. "The only ones at her house, usually at this time, are her siblings." As the three raced to Applejack's house, Rainbow Dash went further into the city to meet her new friends from Crystal Prep Academy. They went to have a discussion at their local library, much to Rainbow's confusion. "Uhh, why're we here?" Rainbow whispered. "Aren't libraries supposed to be quiet?" "We know, but there's an area where talking's allowed," said Sunny Flare. "Come, we'll show you!" She led her friends to their favorite spot and they all sat down. "So...is there anything new you would like to share?" Indigo Zap smiled. "We all have some great things to say, but we're fine with you going first!" "Totally!" Sour Sweet added. She turned around and whispered, "I really wanted to go first!" "Yeah, it's something a bit serious, but I don't know if you're interested in hearing this," Dash undoubtedly said. You see... My best friend, Applejack, who is now your best friend, and I...had the same feelings for each other and we didn't even know about it." The five Shadowbolts all dropped their jaws, but we're also amazed and surprised. "This got very interesting," Sugarcoat pointed out. "Did you both...kiss?" "Yes," Rainbow said. "There are two things I'm now worried about: I don't know if I'm ready for a relationship like this and even if I am, the students in my school would humiliate me for being too soft! What do I do??" "Woah, calm down, girl!" as Lemon Zest tried to calm her down. "Ya don't have to worry so much about what'll happen to you. No matter how soft or sweet you get, there'll be a way to stand up for yourself. If you can't do that, you'll always have your friends to back you up, and the same goes for your girlfriend, if she becomes yours." Her friends were impressed by her statements. "Wow, thanks Zest!" Rainbow Dash thanked. "I'm glad I both befriended you all and that I got to share this!" Lemon Zest winked at her. "We're also glad you're our friend, too," Sunny Flare replied. "We all wanted to be friends with the students at Canterlot High, despite winning a lot in the Friendship Games, but..." "...until Principal Cinch had to enforce us into becoming strict," Indigo Zap finished. "That's why we were so competitive and hateful. But, we want to thank your other friend, Sunset, for making our friendship stronger and meaningful again!" "Indeed," said Sugarcoat. "Back on topic, it all completely depends on you, Rainbow Dash. Be careful of your actions and words since it'll affect you...and you know who in the end. When everything goes according to plan, then you know she's the one." Dash closed her eyes for a bit. "Okay, I got it! Thank you girls so much for understanding and I appreciate you for helping me!" "Rock on, Dashie!" Lemon Zest accidentally yelled. Other strangers angrily said, "Shhh!" She apologized to them. "Well, we're going to see a movie," said Sour Sweet. "Do you want to come with us?" "I wish I could," R.D. answered. "But, I gotta go back and meet some of my friends at the nail salon, sorry!" Sour Sweet both giggled and frowned. "That's okay! Aw man! Well, have fun with them while we do the same!" "Bye girls!" as Rainbow Dash ran out of the library. Her new friends waved back at her. Meanwhile, Sunset Shimmer, Twilight, and Pinkie Pie were at A.J.'s house, filling each other in on their current situation. "I'm flattered that y'all came to visit me, I really am!" Applejack said. "It's nice to see you again, Twilight! But where's Spike?" "He's hanging out with Big Macintosh, and it's the one from Equestria, in case you're wondering," she replied. "I'm also happy to see you too!" "Ah, I see! But would any of you folks like to explain why you're here?" "Oooh, oooh, me, me, me!!!" Pinkie begged. "Haha, go ahead Pinkie!" Sunset laughed aloud. "Okay, okay! We'd like to know how you've been doing with Dashie, even though it's only been two days." "Wait a minute..." Applejack got suspicious. "Were y'all by the statue yesterday? Because I thought that we heard somebody." Her friends all gulped except for Twilight, being that she only came today. "No, no, no!" they lied. "I just got here," Twilight said. "Phew!" relieved Applejack. "For a moment, we thought someone was stalking us like crazy, but we were wrong. Anyways, it's a heck of a long story, but I'll get to the point. It turns out that Rainbow Dash...loves me back, but...I'm not sure if...we're a real couple already." Twilight realized that her friends are not trying to get caught, judging by their scared faces, so she went along with them. "I see... And you don't know if she's the right one?" "Exactly," A.J. answered. "You've known Rainbow Dash your entire life, so she has to be the one," Twilight acknowledged. "Try talking to her later about how you really feel and maybe she'll understand. If she does, I want you to give this to her." Twilight pulls out the special charm necklace that Princess Cadance gave to her earlier and Applejack notices it. "A necklace? Why do you want me to give this to her?" Twilight explained, "My sister-in-law gave this to me as a gift and I thought it would be nice to let you...or Rainbow Dash wear it. She said that whoever wears it is destined to be together with the other person of interest. It's a sign of faith and love that I'm sure Rainbow will love as well!" "Are you sure she will, Twilight? Usually, Rarity's always the one who loves accessories, but I don't know about Rainbow Dash!" "Trust her, A.J." as Sunset Shimmer puts her hand on her shoulder. "We're your friends and even if Rainbow Dash doesn't really love you back, she'll still be your best friend and so will the rest of us!" "Agreed!" Pinkie Pie pointed out. Applejack started crying again, but it was tears of joy this time. "Thank...y'all so much! I don't know what I could do without you! And Sunset, you're right! If she doesn't love me back, I'll still love her and y'all as my best friends!" They hugged her back. "We love you too, Applejack!" as they all cried & hugged too. Chapter 6: The Final DecisionRainbow Dash was at the nail salon with Sci-Twi, Fluttershy, and Rarity. Even though it's not really the place that she goes to, she does enjoy both spending time with her friends and cozying up a bit. Everything was going fine, until she got alarmed by Rarity. "How have you been, Miss Dash? You've done anything active today?" "I...just went to go talk to our Crystal Prep friends. Nothing in particular..." "Ah, I do miss them!" Twilight pointed out. Rarity and Fluttershy raised their eyebrows in a funny manner, attempting to learn more from Rainbow Dash. She was weirded out by how they looked. "Hey girls, can I...tell you something important? And please, don't spread it in school!" "We promise," they all responded. Rainbow tells them to gather closer, then. "I...love A.J., more than a friend...," she whispered. "We...also kissed affectionately." The other three have finally confirmed it, but still, they needed to lay low. So they kept on pretending like they didn't know anything. "Oh, that's...lovely, darling!" Rarity mentioned. "I'm sure she'll feel the same way about you!" "Rarity's right," Fluttershy added. "You two have known each other for so long that it may be able to bring you even closer!" "Maybe, but you know what, girls?" as Rainbow brainstormed. "I think I'm going to go talk to her after this." "Done and done!" randomly said Aloe and Lotus Blossom. "We hope you enjoyed this treatment!" "Thank you so much!" replied all four friends. They all shared their money and exited the salon. After a special hair treatment and nail polishing, the four girls complemented each other's looks, but they all turned their attention to Rainbow Dash. "You...are absolutely gorgeous, Rainbow Dash!" Rarity cheered. "You're definitely a real lady now!" "Agreed!" said both Fluttershy and Sci-Twi. "So what do you want to do now?" Dash blushed shyly. "Aww, thanks girls for inviting me! Well, I'm going to go meet Applejack now, so I'll see you later!" "But where?" Rarity asked. "If you're really ready for this, then you might as well go to a secluded place, like near our school's front. No one, including Principal Celestia and Vice Principal Luna, is there to hear anything, so you should be fine, dearie!" "It all depends on you," Twilight noted. "Now hurry, before the day ends and we all have to go back to school tomorrow!" "You can do it, Rainbow Dash!" Fluttershy cheered. "I will and thank you all so much for everything! I'm glad you're my best friends and I'll never forget that!" "We love you too!" as they all hugged. Dash finally took off to Canterlot High. Meanwhile, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Sunset Shimmer, and Princess Twilight were still at A.J.'s house. Granny Smith came home after a long day at work. "Hi gals! Make sure not to leave a darn mess up there or Applejack's going to do some extra bucking!" "Eeyup," randomly said Big Macintosh. "So...is there anything you need to go over once again?" asked Sunset. "I think you got this by now... Right Twilight?" "Yes she does! Applejack, you're usually calm and that's a good thing! So, there's no need to be nervous when you tell Rainbow Dash once and for all." "Absolutely!" Pinkie Pie added. "Err, I sure hope this works, gals!" A.J. said. She took a deep breath and readied herself for one of the most emotional moments of her life. "I don't know what I could've done without y'all! I'm glad you're my best friends and I'll never forget that!" "We love you too!" as they also hugged just like how Rainbow Dash did earlier. "Wait, Applejack, don't forget this!" as Twilight brought out the special charm necklace. "Remember to tell her that this is a sign of your friendship, faith, and love from your heart!" "I won't forget that! Thank y'all so much!" She took the necklace, but rather than asking Rainbow Dash to meet up with her, she got a phonecall. "R-Rainbow Dash??" Her friends gasped. "Yeah, what's up A.J.? Listen... Do you mind if you can meet at Canterlot High, by the statue? I've got something important to say." "Sure, I was going to ask you the same thing, but thanks for calling. I'll see ya later!" "Awesome! Well, see you too!" They both hanged up and Applejack started to run off. "Good luck!" her friends chanted. Sunset Shimmer now brought her phone out and started to remind all her best friends that it was time as they're all put on speaker. "Listen up girls! They're heading back to school, so we must follow them again. Be sure to not get caught and find a good position to watch them." "Got it!" the rest of them shouted. "Let's go!" "Ooooh, I'm so nervouscited!" Pinkie yelled. "Haha, Pinkie, that's not a real word," Rarity pointed out. All the girls hanged up and got ready to rush to their school. Only Spike stayed behind and Sweetie Belle finally appears. It turns out that Apple Bloom forgot that she let her sleep up in the attic. "Have you seen my sister, Spike?" "Your...beautiful sister?" he slipped up. "I mean...uhh, yeah! She just headed off to school." "Aww, come on!!!" Sweetie Belle moaned. Spike rolled his eyes while still afflicted with Rarity's attractiveness. Speaking of her, she and her friends finally reached their school and are attempting to spy on their two other best friends, who're already by the statue. "Shh, they're here!" Sunset Shimmer said. "Everybody get down!" They all were crouching in a thick bush. "Umm...do I have to be sat on?" Fluttershy asked while being cramped. "Eh, sorry...Fluttershy, sweetie," Rarity added. "Once this is all done, we can all go back home now! Now...let them enjoy this moment. Here they come!" Rainbow Dash and Applejack now meet once again and they hug each other like good friends. "Good to see you, A.J.," Rainbow said. "You...want to just...talk?" "Of course, pal! Also, isn't it kind of funny that we're doing this again in front of the whole school?" "No kidding," Dash replied. "So, umm, what did you do today?" This made Applejack frightened and even her friends in the bush, too. "Oh, I...was talking to the other gals," A.J. reluctantly answered. "Is she trying to give us away?" both Twilights wondered. "Hey, I said that! Keep it down!" "Do you hear something, Rainbow? It sounds like it's coming from over there in that bush." Both A.J. and R.D. went to take a look, but the other girls managed to sneak away. This time, they fled to the roof, which gave Sunset Shimmer more will to watch the two below. "Ahh, must be my imagination again," said Applejack. "Anyways, I wanted to talk to you...about yesterday, Rainbow Dash." "Same here." "You see... Ever since we...smooched and admitted ourselves to each other, I think I'm ready...to be together with you. I want to give you this as a sign of my faith and love to you as a friend, which I'm pretty sure will turn into more than that." Applejack takes out the special charm necklace that Princess Twilight gave her earlier and puts it around Rainbow Dash's neck. They both heavily blushed. "Wow, A.J.! This is...awesome! I appreciate this so much and...I would definitely be together with you too, but...I'm not...ready yet... I love you so much, but I...just can't do it!" Applejack and the other girls dropped all of their jaws in shock as to what they've heard. Pinkie Pie almost fell off the school roof but pulled herself back up. Chapter 7: True Loyalty and Honesty Chapter 7: True Loyalty and Honesty Applejack didn't know what to say. She took off her hat to cover up the fact that she was about to cry again, but struggled to hold it in. "Wh-what do you...mean you're not ready? There's gotta be some explanation!" "Well, A.J..." as Rainbow tried to come to terms. "If we were together, which I do want, I'll be...humiliated. It's not your fault... I just... I'm sorry." Her friend fell to the ground, actually breaking out in tears, and she held Rainbow Dash's knees so tight. "No! It is my fault! I never should have told you how I felt! I just wanted to make up for the times we were separated. But...I knew it wouldn't be what you wanted to hear. I'm sorry, Rainbow Dash!" Up on Canterlot High's rooftop, all the other girls were heartbroken to see what just happened. Pinkie was about to fall off again and everyone else was getting ready to go home, knowing that they have failed. "Poor Applejack!" said both Rarity and Fluttershy. "I guess...it's time for me to return to Equestria. I failed you, big brother and sister-in-law!" lectured Princess Twilight. "It was nice meeting you girls again..." While Rainbow Dash and Applejack weren't looking, she climbed down without being stopped and has officially left the human world. "Now what're we going to do?" Pinkie asked. Sunset Shimmer took a deep breath. "Nothing... Let's just go home." Her friends nodded in agreement with her and they started to climb down. "Nobody else is going to make fun of you and even if they did, I would always defend you!" Applejack cried. "Please Rainbow... I don't want you to leave us...leave me. That's...the truth... You mean a darn lot to me!" "...Now you're making me cry too!! I'm sorry for worrying only about myself and not realizing how much this means to me, err I mean, us... I just didn't know what to do at this point. You mean a lot to me, too! So...it's clear to me that I care about my friends the most, you especially. I'll never leave you or the others! I-I...love you so much, Applejack!" "I love you too, Rainbow Dash!" While they were crying, they have suddenly ponied up after showing their Elements of Harmony. The other girls turned around to see the two glowing above. "What???" they both asked. The necklace around Rainbow's neck was glowing more than her glow right now. It makes her know what to do immediately. "A.J., take my hand..." "Okay..." "I'll be together with you...forever... My heart depends on you." "My heart...belongs to you, also, Rainbow." Applejack replied. "Together forever!" they both chanted. Before turning back to normal, they sealed the deal with a very passionate kiss. It was still the middle of the night and their friends were happy to see them finally unite. As they all went home, the last sight to be seen was Rainbow Dash and Applejack's hands being held in unison. "I love you!" they said once again. The End Epilogue Epilogue After Rainbow Dash and Applejack fell in love with each other, Princess Twilight returns home to Ponyville. But still in disbelief, she doesn't know that she actually succeeded. Before she could even explain herself, Princess Cadance and Shining Armor congratulate her, with Cadance being able to sense love from another world. Meanwhile, both lovers of the human world went to spread the big news to their friends, and they were happy, despite already seeing them come together. Rarity even brings up marriage already, but the rest would obviously wait on that. Rainbow Dash and A.J. did promise to marry each other one day, in private. The Shadowbolts were informed as well, but they already had confidence in Rainbow. She kisses Applejack in front of her friends, which made them feel in awe. However, in Equestria, things were different for their Equestrian counterparts. "It's good to see you come back, Twilight!" said Starlight Glimmer. "Good to see you too, Starlight! Where's Spike?" "He's sleeping...still. Right, Applejack?" She winked at her. "Eeyup," as she stole Big Macintosh's words. "Have any of you seen Rarity?" "Maybe Canterlot Boutique?" Twilight suggested. "Thanks Twi!" A.J. replied. This made her feel something a bit odd. "Her human self loves Rainbow Dash," Twilight said in her mind. "But then that means..."
Chapter 1: Setting Sights Chapter 1: Setting Sights A few days after the Friendship Games and the introduction of both Twilight Sparkles, the rest of our heroes discuss their plans for the weekend. Rainbow Dash is the first one up so now everybody else is listening. "Alright girls, I'm going to write more awesome songs for our band," said Rainbow Dash excitedly. "You're all going to love them, I promise!" "Well, hopefully they're not absurd like your other ones," Rarity pointed out. "Don't worry, I won't let any of you down," Rainbow Dash replied. "See you later!" As Rainbow Dash goes home, Applejack is the next to tell her plans. But instead, she has something else in mind. Tired and all from school, she starts commenting randomly. "She sure is one heck of a good friend, isn't she girls," asked Applejack. "I wish I could I make up for the lost time during Sunset Shimmer's reign of terror. Ehh, no offense!" Sunset Shimmer sighs out, "None taken...again. I'm still getting used to that," she laughed out. "So what does this mean for you?" "Aww shucks! I don't think I know," A.J. cried out. "Maybe I might just go talk to Rainbow Dash." "Ooooh," Rarity shouted. "Do you know what this means? I think Applejack is crushing on her." "Mmm-hmm," as Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie agreed. "Now y'all wait a minute here," A.J. replied. "I only love Rainbow Dash as a best friend, nothing more! I just...feel really bad for what happened long ago." "We know you feel bad, but come on, Applejack," said Rarity. "You look like you've been afflicted with love, based on your facial expressions!" "...Okay, you win," admitted Applejack. "I guess Rainbow got on my soft side now. You girls promise not to tell her about my feelings?" "Mmm-hmm," said the rest of the Main Six. "Thanks y'all! I'm going home because I'm darn exhausted. I'll see y'all later!" "Bye, A.J.!" replied her friends. "Umm...Sunset Shimmer, what're you thinking of right now?" asked Fluttershy. "Oh nothing," she replied. "I'm still laughing at how there's two Twilights! Hopefully, Principal Celestia doesn't faint." "That is still crraazzy!" Pinkie Pie added on. "I know," Sunset laughably said. "Well what are the rest of you going to do later?" "Another slumber party, anyone?" asked Pinkie. "Sure," everyone else replied. "Let's goooooo!" As it began to turn nighttime, Applejack finally reached her house. Before she had to sleep, she needed to eat. Her other family members also shared what they've done the current day. "Your big brother and little sister really did a darn good job with the business today," said Granny Smith. "Right, kids?" "Eeyup," Big Macintosh and Apple Bloom responded. "We sure brought those apples like they were nothing!" exclaimed Apple Bloom. "I'm very proud of y'all!" Applejack let out. "Is something wrong, sis? You don't look well." "No I'm fine, sugarcube, thanks," A.J. sighed. "I'm...just tired, that's it." "Eeyup," randomly said Big Mac. "Ya sure look like you took a beating and that ain't good." "Look y'all, I'm fine. I think it's time we all get some shut eye, right?" "Right!" said the Apple family. The Apple family went up to bed and waved to each other "good night." Applejack looked outside her bedroom window, wondering what she will do from now on about...her feelings. "Rainbow Dash... I missed you so much when we were younger. How can I make up it you? I...l... I'm going to bed now." Speaking of her best friend, she's struggling as well. "This...is definitely harder than I thought. I got the idea, but I don't know what's holding me back. Is it my friends? No, they would never get in the way of my music or me, in general. Why is my heart beating faster now? Unless...it's who I think it is, I don't know. But she really means a lot to me and I wouldn't get mad at her! ...A.J..." Rainbow Dash falls asleep on her desk, unable to finish her songwriting. The next day awaits for these powerhouse girls.
Chapter 2: Assistance Chapter 2: Assistance As the morning sun rises, Pinkie Pie and the rest of the her friends wake up from a very fun slumber party. After taking turns in the bathroom and dressing up, they all head downstairs to eat breakfast. Each one put a smile on their faces after a fun night. "Did anybody else enjoy themselves yesterday because I quite did!" exclaimed Rarity. "Mmm-hmm!" said the rest. "I can't wait to see Sweetie Belle again, even though it has only been one night! Plus, I've got more orders to prepare." "Aww!" said Fluttershy. "I also can't wait to see my cute animals and I know how much they miss me!" "All of that sounds so sweet, but you know what else does?" asked Pinkie. "I think I know what it is," said Sunset Shimmer. "Is it what's between Rainbow Dash and Applejack?" "Tsk, nooo! Just kidding, but you're right, girl." "I just hope that Applejack is feeling better," Rarity replied. "You all know what would happen if she doesn't sleep and I don't even want to see it!" "Right..." Sunset confusingly added. "Anyways, imagine if Princess Twilight knew about this. She might happen to know a lot of love spells. But, let's...rather not interrupt her in her line of Equestrian duties, though it was really nice of you to give her a phone so that she can stay in contact with us, Rarity!" "I know, but her friends in Equestria would probably be confused with why there's something so advanced as that over there," Rarity replied. "Twilight might even find a way to obtain service!" "You want to try?" asked Pinkie Pie. This could be very exciting!" "Sure, why not?" Sunset answered. "I still find it funny that we gave better technology to Equestria, but it was worth the effort of reaching our best friend!" Everyone took a moment of silence as Rarity took out her cellphone and attempted to call Twilight. Surprisingly, she picked up, but she's now holding her phone wrong. Rarity puts hers on speaker and everyone else gets ready to talk. Twilight is still struggling to push a single button, but finally managed. "Gah!" said Princess Twilight. "Is this thing working? Hello?" "Twilight!" shouted her Canterlot High friends. "Ahh, there we go! Hi girls, what's up?" "We miss you, Twilight," said Fluttershy. "We're really hoping you could come back because we've got something important!" "I miss all of you girls, too!" "Umm...we're...right here, Twilight, hehe!" randomly laughed their pony counterparts. "Hah, I was talking to my Canterlot High friends, sorry! You may carry on. So what important thing is it do you want to tell me?" "Basically, Applejack suddenly now has feelings for Rainbow Dash, and Rainbow doesn't realize it," Rarity elaborated. "Hmm, how do I put this? We're telling you this and thought that you might be able to help them come together. Can you please help us?" "Of course I like to!" said Twilight. "But...can you all excuse me for a bit? My brother just came in and he needs me. I'll swing by the portal later! Bye girls!" "Bye Twilight!" as the phones hang up. "Now what we're going to do?" asked Fluttershy. "Our other Twilight is still in bed and we have no one else to help us." "It's alright, Fluttershy," said Sunset Shimmer. "Besides, Applejack needs us to keep quiet, so for now, let's just see how she can do on her own." "Yeah, I agree," Rarity added. "I wonder what Rainbow Dash is up to right now." "She probably rocked herself out last night, huh?" asked Pinkie Pie. As a matter of fact, Pinkie was right about Rainbow Dash's current state. Right now, she wakes up with no clue as to what became of her yesterday. Luckily, she didn't fall back asleep. "...W-what happened? Ah, who cares? I gotta go meet my friends in the city, so now I have to hurry. Later, I might even get a chance... I just hope nobody else will make fun of my awesomeness after...everything. " Our girls did mention hanging out the day before. But this opportunity might make things more intimate for Dashie and A.J. Meanwhile, Sci-Twi finally wakes up and so does her dog, Spike. "Good morning, Spike!" said Sci-Twi. "Morning, Twilight!" replied Spike. "What do you want to do?" "Let's see what our friends are doing right now. I bet they already started having fun!" "That's a good idea," said Spike. "When we meet them, would you mind...introducing me to that girl Rarity? She's beautiful!" "Hahaha!" laughed Twilight. "One day I might do that! But anyway, we must go meet our friends. They texted me at one point yesterday, so we better get going." Sci-Twi and Spike get ready to leave, but hear a knocking on the front door as they approach it. "I wonder who that could be?" Spike curiously asked. Twilight opens the door and gets an unexpected visit from a friend. "R-Rainbow Dash?" she confusingly figured out.
Chapter 3: Enlightenment Chapter 3: Enlightenment To her surprise, Rainbow Dash showed up at Sci-Twi's house. She was really happy to see her, but again, had no idea why she did come. Nonetheless, this could either be good or serious for these friends. "What's up Twilight?" asked Rainbow Dash. "Can we...talk for a bit about something important? Oh by the way, hey Spike!" "Ummm...sure!" she replied. "Come in. We were just about to leave and meet our friends, but I didn't expect you to be here." "I was going to see them too, but something came up. I thought, maybe, you can help me with it?" "I'll be glad to!" said Sci-Twi. "What's wrong?" "I...think I'm in love with Applejack," Dashie replied. "My mind didn't think of that at first, but now, it does." Twilight had no idea what to say. With time slowly ticking away, she had to think of something. She didn't want to see Rainbow Dash struggling at this point. "As...friends, right?" she asked. "No, it's more than that," Rainbow Dash admitted. "I see." Twilight started to feel useful. "Since I was claimed to be the best at Crystal Prep, I did study & read a bunch of romance, so I'll give you all the advice you need!" "Oh, thank you, thank you, thank you, Twilight!" as Rainbow tightly hugs Sci-Twi. "You really are a great friend!" "You're...wel...come!" awkwardly smiled Twilight. "But...can you let go of me now, if you don't mind?" "Sure, sorry," as Rainbow lets her go. Twilight got her breath back, but still felt a bit of pain. She thought of how she'd help Rainbow Dash and then, an idea came to mind. "I've got it!" Twilight said. "All you have to do is play it cool and be yourself. When you and Applejack are alone, you should both share anything new and interesting to each other. Eventually, you'll get closer with her." "Well, I'm always cool, but I don't think I can be that way in a time like this," Dash replied. "What if she finds out immediately?" "That's only if you're nervous, but I'm sure you know when the time is right, and when it is, the confession always comes last," thought Twilight. "Anyways, we better get going! Our friends are waiting!" "Right!" said R.D. Sci-Twi, Rainbow Dash, and Spike all head off to Sugarcube Corner to meet the rest of the girls. Meanwhile, Applejack could possibly be the last one to join them. "Wh-what in the hay?" A.J. asked. She had no idea what time it was so she checked out her phone to see. "Sweet Apple Acres! I'm gonna be late! I think I might've been dreaming too much yesterday. Well, that's a darn shame." Applejack quickly gets dressed and prepared, but on her way downstairs, Apple Bloom gets curious. "Where you going, sis?" "Oh, uhh, just to see my friends downtown!" Applejack nervously smiled. "If you're ever hungry, you can either eat what we have here or meet your friends too. So, take care and I love you!" Applejack runs out the front door. "Hmmm...there's something a bit off about her," Apple Bloom wondered. "What is it?" Scootaloo asked as she randomly appeared behind her. "Woah!" screamed Apple Bloom. "Now don't ya' scare me like that!" Scootaloo rubbed her back comforting her. "Ehh, sorry!" she apologized. "I just wanted to see what you were doing, so I didn't mean to scare you. But you're right about your sister acting strange." Apple Bloom pulled herself together and tried to think. "I've never seen her like this before. But I know she's strong enough to watch out for herself, so there should be no problem!" "Yeah, you're right," Scootaloo replied. "I wonder what Sweetie Belle is up to." "Probably missing Rarity," A.B. guessed. "We know what happens when she's not with Sweetie Belle. That poor filly!" All eight of our heroes finally reached Sugarcube Corner and they all headed inside to their usual table. As they all sat down, Rarity was generous enough to offer her friends something special. "Would you all mind if I paid for your usual beverages? I really insisted on this!" "Then go ahead, because we all appreciate you!" said Sunset Shimmer. "Thank you so much!" The rest of her friends were honored by Rarity's decision. "Thanks Rare!" smiled everyone else. "Remember: it's what I live for!" Rarity brought up. She now began to order from Mrs. Cake while everyone else was chatting. "So how was the slumber party?" asked Rainbow Dash. "Aww shucks, I was going to ask that," added by Applejack. "It was obviously fun, but I wished the rest of you could come along!" Pinkie Pie answered. "You should've seen Fluttershy's epic streak on Rock Band!" "You're serious, Fluttershy?" curiously asked again by Rainbow Dash. She nodded shyly, but happily. "Yes, that was truly amazing from her!" as Rarity comes back with everyone's drinks. "Oooh, I almost tripped on you, Spikey-Wikey, sorry!" "You don't have to be sorry!" blushed Spike. Twilight rolled her eyes and giggled a bit. "Anyways, what songs have you written so far, Dashie?" asked Pinkie Pie. Suddenly, Rainbow Dash spit out a little bit of her milkshake as she was beginning to feel nervous, due to what happened yesterday. "Uhhh...I...I..." Twilight looked at her and nodded as a sign of faith. "I was...writing songs about all our victories!" "Hahaha, let me guess," Sunset Shimmer played around. "Is my defeat in one of them?" "Maybe...," sarcastically commented Dash. "But I was unable to finish them." "I'm sorry to hear that," simultaneously said Applejack and Fluttershy. The rest were about to say the same, but it seems that they did the talking for them. "Don't be, girls. Besides, I don't think they would've turned out that good." "No, they would," Applejack reassured. "I...or should I say that we all think your new songs could work out!" She laid her hand on Rainbow Dash's shoulder, trying to cheer her up. They unexpectedly both blushed. "Th-thanks, A.J.!" "Not a darn problem!" Sci-Twi actually finished her smoothie and planned to put everything she said to Rainbow Dash into play. "Uhh, could you girls excuse me? I really need to go to the bathroom!" Even the others, except Spike, noticed what Twilight was trying to do, so they joined her. Finally, there was only two left at the table. "Do you need to go?" asked Applejack. "Because I still can go for another batch!" "Ehh, no thanks," Rainbow replied. "So...umm...what's up?" "Not much, but my family's getting as rich as apple pie!" Applejack laughed as she looked back to the actual sales her other family members had. "Cool!" Dashie said. "Nothing awesome, but I wished something did happen." She was starting to feel more confident than ever and thought of her next move in her mind. "Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh! I think I can actually do this. Now all I have to do is...confess, just like what Twilight said." "Rainbow, wake up!" A.J. whispered in Rainbow Dash's ear. "You alright?" Dash snapped out of it. "...Sorry... Applejack, I...l...lo..." "Ya what? C'mon, you can do it!" A.J. needed an answer, but calmly she heard. "Applejack, I...love you!!!" Rainbow Dash admitted. "I...mean...as more than friends." "Rainbow..." Applejack turned speechless. She started to cry and Dash couldn't tell what kind of tears were coming out. "Applejack, I'm so sorry...if that made you feel uncomfortable!" But, Applejack started running to Canterlot High and Rainbow Dash had to go after her. Eventually, she caught up as they were both at the statue portal. "C'mon A.J... I said I was sorry. I'll do anything to make it up to you!" She was about to cry, too. Applejack finally stopped sniffing and was able to talk. "It's fine, Rainbow," she replied. "To be honest, I need to tell you something too." Rainbow Dash turned around to hear her. "I...love ya too..." Then, everything became silent. The other girls were shocked to see these two gone missing. Pinkie Pie dropped on the floor and screamed, "Dashieeeeeeeee!!!"
Chapter 4: Catching Up Chapter 4: Catching Up Rainbow Dash was left speechless and couldn't even process a word. "I...just...but...what?" Applejack finally stopped crying and had to explain herself. "You okay...buddy? If it makes you feel better, then I'm sorry too..." Inside her mind, she tried to think of what the right thing was. Was it worth admitting her feelings for Rainbow Dash? "Yeah, I'm fine," R.D. said. "But you also don't have to feel sorry for me! Are you...for real right now, A.J.?" "Of course I am! I love you so much as a friend, so I thought it could be more than that... It's getting awkward, isn't it?" "Totally not!" Rainbow replied. "I get what you're trying to say and I appreciate that. I love you too as a friend and I also thought it could be more than that because I thought I'd..." "...make up for lost time," they simultaneously said. Dash was a bit relieved but is now confused as to how Applejack figured out what she said. "How did you know that?" "I was thinking the exact same thing last night, before I slept," A.J. answered. "It just came to me and my heart knew that it was right. Sunset Shimmer's still our best friend, but I still remember the darn grudge I had for her when we were younger. Ever since then, I missed you like there was no hay! And when we started to get mad at each other, I was lonely deep down. It's neither her fault, not yours anymore. I'm sorry!" Rainbow Dash put a hand on her heart. She knew she was about to cry, but couldn't do it. "I'm sorry too and it's all good now! I did the same thing you did a couple of years ago and I still couldn't forget that. My heart was telling me too that it was wrong to get mad at you, whether I was tricked or not. Sunset's definitely a good friend now and we don't want to get mad at her this time!" The two girls were in awe and they started hugging each other. "Remember when we first bought Rarity's Wondercolt merchandise?" as Applejack looked up. "How could I forget?" R.D. considered. "All the students at Canterlot High still adore them today! It was all thanks to our friendship with Twilight, and you know which one it is." "Eeyup, our beloved pony princess friend." A.J. elaborated. Meanwhile, the rest of the friends are looking desperately for the two "lovebirds" as all of them are on the phone speaker. They all had firm looks. "She's not at Sweet Apple Acres!" Rarity confirmed. "No sign of Rainbow Dash in the music store," Sci-Twi checked. "Applejack's definitely not at Flim and Flam's emporium, though I really, really wanted that play horse!" Pinkie Pie confirmed. "They haven't come back to Sugarcube Corner, either," Sunset Shimmer confirmed. "Umm...gym's clear," said Fluttershy. She sees Bulk Biceps lifting barbells without a sweat. "Yeahhhh!!!" "Where could those two girls be?" Rarity worried. However, Spike thought of the obvious and genius. "Twilight, can I get the phone real quick?" She lays it gently on the ground. "Girls, how could you forget the one place that you meet each other at almost everyday?" All of them got Spike's idea. "Canterlot High!" Rarity made a kissing sound on the phone. "Thank you, Spikey-Wikey!" And so, they head off to the school. "What would they be doing at the school around this time?" Sunset asked while running. "Did they finally do it?" "I don't even want to guess," replied Fluttershy. "I just hope nothing bad happened to them!" "Darling, they're absolutely fine!" Rarity reassured. "They're quite possibly the strongest friends we have and they barely get in trouble." Pinkie Pie was skipping and skipping while imagining the future. "I'm so proud of that Dashie! Hopefully she won't forget about me later on, and the same goes for my uncertain cousin but good friend, Applejack! Why do I still cry tears of joy?" Everyone else just scooted over a bit from her, as they all were weirded out. "Almost there!" Sunset said. "I think I can see them from here. Hopefully, we didn't come at the wrong time!" When all the girls and Spike stopped by Canterlot High, they couldn't allow themselves to be noticed, so they stood around a corner of the front. Rainbow Dash and Applejack finally finished their conversation and moved on to something more they consider to be more important. "Hehe, good times, good times!" said Dashie. "Oh my gosh, it's getting late! I also promised Scootaloo that we're having a sleepover. I need to go!" "Oooh, you got that right," replied A.J. "I think my family's pretty worked up after today's business, so it looks like I'm in charge of the pack. I'll see ya tomorrow!" However, to make things more intimate, they turned around and faced each other directly. Instead of a usual hug, they passionately kissed. "I...love you!" they both said. "Hey, do you hear something? Nah!" It turns out that their friends are still right around the corner as they giggled from what they heard. But as the day ends, everyone decided to return home at last. As Rainbow Dash met Scootaloo along the way, they had to share their "awesome" stories. "I just pulled off some of the best tricks of my life!" Scootaloo exclaimed. "I wish you were there to experience them!" "Yeah, I also wish that," Rainbow replied. Scootaloo notices her lips to be wet from Applejack's kiss, still. She doesn't mind it at first, though. "So...what'd you do today?" Rainbow Dash gulped for her life. "Oh, I...uhh...was with my friends, as usual, heh!" She immediately dried her lips. "If you're also curious, I was writing new songs too! You'll be amazed when you hear them!" "Awesome!" Scootaloo yelled. "I can't wait to hear them! I'm really glad that you're my big sister, even though...it's not really true." She frowns to Rainbow. "Oh, don't be sad, squirt! I'm also glad that you're my little sister, even though that's not true either. But nevertheless, I'll always look out for you. Now come here!" They started to hug each other and they finally reached Rainbow Dash's house. "Thanks for letting me spend the night here!" said Scootaloo. "Nice place, by the way!" Rainbow Dash winked. "No problem and yeah, I know! Now you go and make yourself comfortable while I have to go do something upstairs. I'll be back down in a bit! She heads to her bedroom, but realizes she's in a tight situation. She looks out her window and relates back to earlier. "What was I doing? Did I make the right choice and even if it was, was it right enough? Just calm down, Dashie! Applejack's always been a great friend, but I really don't know if I'm ready for this kind of relationship. Maybe she'll understand...but for now, let's just see how this goes." Rainbow suddenly falls asleep. At Sweet Apple Acres, A.J.'s doing the exact same thing. "Shoot! I think my chance was just wasted by a galloping mile! Rainbow...is my best friend, she always has been. What did I possibly do wrong back there? No, it ain't my tears, but I'm still worried about that. So why...am I feeling that this is wrong for me? I don't know anymore..." Applejack suddenly falls asleep.
Chapter 5: A Princess and Five ShadowboltsIt was still the middle of the night and Scootaloo was still over at Rainbow Dash's house. She was starting to feel worried that something might've happened to her, so she went upstairs to her bedroom and the door was already open. "Oh Rainbow Dash! You're starting to sleep without me?" She yawned. "I guess...it's time for me to sleep too." She hugged her like a real sister and began to sleep by her side. "Ah, good night..." The next morning, Dash woke up and was happy to see Scootaloo in the same bed with her. "I hope you slept well, kid! Hmm, who's calling me? Hello?" "Umm...good morning Rainbow Dash!" said Fluttershy. "Where did you...go? We were worried about you and Applejack." She had to pretend that she wasn't spying on them at Canterlot High. "Hey Fluttershy," R.D. replied. "I'm...fine! I think we both had to get home early, if you know what I'm saying!" Fluttershy looked confused. "Well...as long as you're both happy, then so are we! So do you have any plans today?" Her friend became alarmed. "Oooh, I...don't know! What day is it today?" Fluttershy said, "Sunday. Rarity, this world's Twilight, and I will all go to the nail salon later. Maybe...you can join us?" "M-maybe," Dashie said back. "But for now, I'm going to see...our other friends." Fluttershy had an idea for who they were. "Oh, them! Well, I hope you have fun! And remember, your friends are there for you if you need anything!" "Thanks Fluttershy and maybe I'll join you girls later! See ya!" They both hanged up and carried on. Once again, Equestrian Twilight was able to go back to the other world in order to help her friends. But she had to do just a few things before she could step through the mirror. "I'll be back as soon as I can, big brother! My friends over there really need me!" "We know you can fix whatever problems they have," Shining Armor said. "Cadance and I have our hearts on you, which is a sign of our faith." Princess Cadance puts down Flurry Heart in her cradle to help Twilight even more. "Also, Twilight, take this." She lends her a special charm. "What's this?" Twilight assumed. "This necklace, when worn, gives the holder the ability to be destined with the right one for him or her. My magic can sense love from anywhere, even in another dimension, and since I know who you're giving it to, there shouldn't be a problem." "But what if I can't get...one of them to wear it?" Twilight asked. "Will I fail?" "You won't," Cadance said. "Like your brother has said, we have faith in you and even if you do fail, it's not your fault. We know you always try your hardest!" "Thank you all," Twilight said as she hugged her family. "I must go and tell Flurry Heart that I'll be back." The baby woke up and looked at her. "Bye-bye!" Twilight was in awe and finally said her goodbyes to everypony in the room. She finally stepped through the mirror. When she reached the other side, she didn't expect Pinkie Pie and Sunset Shimmer waiting right in front of the Wondercolts' statue. "Twilight!!!" She was happy to see them, but had to gather herself for a bit. "H-hey girls! How did you know that I would be here at this time?" Sunset rolled her eyes and laughed. "It's Pinkie's hunch, remember? Anyway, let's sit at the stairs. Pinkie, c'mon!" "Comingggg! This is going to be super duper fun!" As they all sat down, Twilight had to get an explanation. "So how...are those two? Did they finally get together?" "They did, but we don't know if it's officially true yet," Sunset replied. "Applejack's not here, but I'm pretty sure she still doesn't want to be get caught with us by Rainbow Dash. Remember, if a secret that we know is revealed at the wrong time, we're to blame then." "You're right," Pinkie added. "I wonder what Dashie is doing right now." "Probably doing awesome things again!" Twilight chuckled. "There's no need for them to be afraid, but a secret is a secret. Do you want to see if Applejack's awake?" "Let's go, there's no time to waste!" Sunset acknowledged. "The only ones at her house, usually at this time, are her siblings." As the three raced to Applejack's house, Rainbow Dash went further into the city to meet her new friends from Crystal Prep Academy. They went to have a discussion at their local library, much to Rainbow's confusion. "Uhh, why're we here?" Rainbow whispered. "Aren't libraries supposed to be quiet?" "We know, but there's an area where talking's allowed," said Sunny Flare. "Come, we'll show you!" She led her friends to their favorite spot and they all sat down. "So...is there anything new you would like to share?" Indigo Zap smiled. "We all have some great things to say, but we're fine with you going first!" "Totally!" Sour Sweet added. She turned around and whispered, "I really wanted to go first!" "Yeah, it's something a bit serious, but I don't know if you're interested in hearing this," Dash undoubtedly said. You see... My best friend, Applejack, who is now your best friend, and I...had the same feelings for each other and we didn't even know about it." The five Shadowbolts all dropped their jaws, but we're also amazed and surprised. "This got very interesting," Sugarcoat pointed out. "Did you both...kiss?" "Yes," Rainbow said. "There are two things I'm now worried about: I don't know if I'm ready for a relationship like this and even if I am, the students in my school would humiliate me for being too soft! What do I do??" "Woah, calm down, girl!" as Lemon Zest tried to calm her down. "Ya don't have to worry so much about what'll happen to you. No matter how soft or sweet you get, there'll be a way to stand up for yourself. If you can't do that, you'll always have your friends to back you up, and the same goes for your girlfriend, if she becomes yours." Her friends were impressed by her statements. "Wow, thanks Zest!" Rainbow Dash thanked. "I'm glad I both befriended you all and that I got to share this!" Lemon Zest winked at her. "We're also glad you're our friend, too," Sunny Flare replied. "We all wanted to be friends with the students at Canterlot High, despite winning a lot in the Friendship Games, but..." "...until Principal Cinch had to enforce us into becoming strict," Indigo Zap finished. "That's why we were so competitive and hateful. But, we want to thank your other friend, Sunset, for making our friendship stronger and meaningful again!" "Indeed," said Sugarcoat. "Back on topic, it all completely depends on you, Rainbow Dash. Be careful of your actions and words since it'll affect you...and you know who in the end. When everything goes according to plan, then you know she's the one." Dash closed her eyes for a bit. "Okay, I got it! Thank you girls so much for understanding and I appreciate you for helping me!" "Rock on, Dashie!" Lemon Zest accidentally yelled. Other strangers angrily said, "Shhh!" She apologized to them. "Well, we're going to see a movie," said Sour Sweet. "Do you want to come with us?" "I wish I could," R.D. answered. "But, I gotta go back and meet some of my friends at the nail salon, sorry!" Sour Sweet both giggled and frowned. "That's okay! Aw man! Well, have fun with them while we do the same!" "Bye girls!" as Rainbow Dash ran out of the library. Her new friends waved back at her. Meanwhile, Sunset Shimmer, Twilight, and Pinkie Pie were at A.J.'s house, filling each other in on their current situation. "I'm flattered that y'all came to visit me, I really am!" Applejack said. "It's nice to see you again, Twilight! But where's Spike?" "He's hanging out with Big Macintosh, and it's the one from Equestria, in case you're wondering," she replied. "I'm also happy to see you too!" "Ah, I see! But would any of you folks like to explain why you're here?" "Oooh, oooh, me, me, me!!!" Pinkie begged. "Haha, go ahead Pinkie!" Sunset laughed aloud. "Okay, okay! We'd like to know how you've been doing with Dashie, even though it's only been two days." "Wait a minute..." Applejack got suspicious. "Were y'all by the statue yesterday? Because I thought that we heard somebody." Her friends all gulped except for Twilight, being that she only came today. "No, no, no!" they lied. "I just got here," Twilight said. "Phew!" relieved Applejack. "For a moment, we thought someone was stalking us like crazy, but we were wrong. Anyways, it's a heck of a long story, but I'll get to the point. It turns out that Rainbow Dash...loves me back, but...I'm not sure if...we're a real couple already." Twilight realized that her friends are not trying to get caught, judging by their scared faces, so she went along with them. "I see... And you don't know if she's the right one?" "Exactly," A.J. answered. "You've known Rainbow Dash your entire life, so she has to be the one," Twilight acknowledged. "Try talking to her later about how you really feel and maybe she'll understand. If she does, I want you to give this to her." Twilight pulls out the special charm necklace that Princess Cadance gave to her earlier and Applejack notices it. "A necklace? Why do you want me to give this to her?" Twilight explained, "My sister-in-law gave this to me as a gift and I thought it would be nice to let you...or Rainbow Dash wear it. She said that whoever wears it is destined to be together with the other person of interest. It's a sign of faith and love that I'm sure Rainbow will love as well!" "Are you sure she will, Twilight? Usually, Rarity's always the one who loves accessories, but I don't know about Rainbow Dash!" "Trust her, A.J." as Sunset Shimmer puts her hand on her shoulder. "We're your friends and even if Rainbow Dash doesn't really love you back, she'll still be your best friend and so will the rest of us!" "Agreed!" Pinkie Pie pointed out. Applejack started crying again, but it was tears of joy this time. "Thank...y'all so much! I don't know what I could do without you! And Sunset, you're right! If she doesn't love me back, I'll still love her and y'all as my best friends!" They hugged her back. "We love you too, Applejack!" as they all cried & hugged too.
Chapter 6: The Final DecisionRainbow Dash was at the nail salon with Sci-Twi, Fluttershy, and Rarity. Even though it's not really the place that she goes to, she does enjoy both spending time with her friends and cozying up a bit. Everything was going fine, until she got alarmed by Rarity. "How have you been, Miss Dash? You've done anything active today?" "I...just went to go talk to our Crystal Prep friends. Nothing in particular..." "Ah, I do miss them!" Twilight pointed out. Rarity and Fluttershy raised their eyebrows in a funny manner, attempting to learn more from Rainbow Dash. She was weirded out by how they looked. "Hey girls, can I...tell you something important? And please, don't spread it in school!" "We promise," they all responded. Rainbow tells them to gather closer, then. "I...love A.J., more than a friend...," she whispered. "We...also kissed affectionately." The other three have finally confirmed it, but still, they needed to lay low. So they kept on pretending like they didn't know anything. "Oh, that's...lovely, darling!" Rarity mentioned. "I'm sure she'll feel the same way about you!" "Rarity's right," Fluttershy added. "You two have known each other for so long that it may be able to bring you even closer!" "Maybe, but you know what, girls?" as Rainbow brainstormed. "I think I'm going to go talk to her after this." "Done and done!" randomly said Aloe and Lotus Blossom. "We hope you enjoyed this treatment!" "Thank you so much!" replied all four friends. They all shared their money and exited the salon. After a special hair treatment and nail polishing, the four girls complemented each other's looks, but they all turned their attention to Rainbow Dash. "You...are absolutely gorgeous, Rainbow Dash!" Rarity cheered. "You're definitely a real lady now!" "Agreed!" said both Fluttershy and Sci-Twi. "So what do you want to do now?" Dash blushed shyly. "Aww, thanks girls for inviting me! Well, I'm going to go meet Applejack now, so I'll see you later!" "But where?" Rarity asked. "If you're really ready for this, then you might as well go to a secluded place, like near our school's front. No one, including Principal Celestia and Vice Principal Luna, is there to hear anything, so you should be fine, dearie!" "It all depends on you," Twilight noted. "Now hurry, before the day ends and we all have to go back to school tomorrow!" "You can do it, Rainbow Dash!" Fluttershy cheered. "I will and thank you all so much for everything! I'm glad you're my best friends and I'll never forget that!" "We love you too!" as they all hugged. Dash finally took off to Canterlot High. Meanwhile, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Sunset Shimmer, and Princess Twilight were still at A.J.'s house. Granny Smith came home after a long day at work. "Hi gals! Make sure not to leave a darn mess up there or Applejack's going to do some extra bucking!" "Eeyup," randomly said Big Macintosh. "So...is there anything you need to go over once again?" asked Sunset. "I think you got this by now... Right Twilight?" "Yes she does! Applejack, you're usually calm and that's a good thing! So, there's no need to be nervous when you tell Rainbow Dash once and for all." "Absolutely!" Pinkie Pie added. "Err, I sure hope this works, gals!" A.J. said. She took a deep breath and readied herself for one of the most emotional moments of her life. "I don't know what I could've done without y'all! I'm glad you're my best friends and I'll never forget that!" "We love you too!" as they also hugged just like how Rainbow Dash did earlier. "Wait, Applejack, don't forget this!" as Twilight brought out the special charm necklace. "Remember to tell her that this is a sign of your friendship, faith, and love from your heart!" "I won't forget that! Thank y'all so much!" She took the necklace, but rather than asking Rainbow Dash to meet up with her, she got a phonecall. "R-Rainbow Dash??" Her friends gasped. "Yeah, what's up A.J.? Listen... Do you mind if you can meet at Canterlot High, by the statue? I've got something important to say." "Sure, I was going to ask you the same thing, but thanks for calling. I'll see ya later!" "Awesome! Well, see you too!" They both hanged up and Applejack started to run off. "Good luck!" her friends chanted. Sunset Shimmer now brought her phone out and started to remind all her best friends that it was time as they're all put on speaker. "Listen up girls! They're heading back to school, so we must follow them again. Be sure to not get caught and find a good position to watch them." "Got it!" the rest of them shouted. "Let's go!" "Ooooh, I'm so nervouscited!" Pinkie yelled. "Haha, Pinkie, that's not a real word," Rarity pointed out. All the girls hanged up and got ready to rush to their school. Only Spike stayed behind and Sweetie Belle finally appears. It turns out that Apple Bloom forgot that she let her sleep up in the attic. "Have you seen my sister, Spike?" "Your...beautiful sister?" he slipped up. "I mean...uhh, yeah! She just headed off to school." "Aww, come on!!!" Sweetie Belle moaned. Spike rolled his eyes while still afflicted with Rarity's attractiveness. Speaking of her, she and her friends finally reached their school and are attempting to spy on their two other best friends, who're already by the statue. "Shh, they're here!" Sunset Shimmer said. "Everybody get down!" They all were crouching in a thick bush. "Umm...do I have to be sat on?" Fluttershy asked while being cramped. "Eh, sorry...Fluttershy, sweetie," Rarity added. "Once this is all done, we can all go back home now! Now...let them enjoy this moment. Here they come!" Rainbow Dash and Applejack now meet once again and they hug each other like good friends. "Good to see you, A.J.," Rainbow said. "You...want to just...talk?" "Of course, pal! Also, isn't it kind of funny that we're doing this again in front of the whole school?" "No kidding," Dash replied. "So, umm, what did you do today?" This made Applejack frightened and even her friends in the bush, too. "Oh, I...was talking to the other gals," A.J. reluctantly answered. "Is she trying to give us away?" both Twilights wondered. "Hey, I said that! Keep it down!" "Do you hear something, Rainbow? It sounds like it's coming from over there in that bush." Both A.J. and R.D. went to take a look, but the other girls managed to sneak away. This time, they fled to the roof, which gave Sunset Shimmer more will to watch the two below. "Ahh, must be my imagination again," said Applejack. "Anyways, I wanted to talk to you...about yesterday, Rainbow Dash." "Same here." "You see... Ever since we...smooched and admitted ourselves to each other, I think I'm ready...to be together with you. I want to give you this as a sign of my faith and love to you as a friend, which I'm pretty sure will turn into more than that." Applejack takes out the special charm necklace that Princess Twilight gave her earlier and puts it around Rainbow Dash's neck. They both heavily blushed. "Wow, A.J.! This is...awesome! I appreciate this so much and...I would definitely be together with you too, but...I'm not...ready yet... I love you so much, but I...just can't do it!" Applejack and the other girls dropped all of their jaws in shock as to what they've heard. Pinkie Pie almost fell off the school roof but pulled herself back up.
Chapter 7: True Loyalty and Honesty Chapter 7: True Loyalty and Honesty Applejack didn't know what to say. She took off her hat to cover up the fact that she was about to cry again, but struggled to hold it in. "Wh-what do you...mean you're not ready? There's gotta be some explanation!" "Well, A.J..." as Rainbow tried to come to terms. "If we were together, which I do want, I'll be...humiliated. It's not your fault... I just... I'm sorry." Her friend fell to the ground, actually breaking out in tears, and she held Rainbow Dash's knees so tight. "No! It is my fault! I never should have told you how I felt! I just wanted to make up for the times we were separated. But...I knew it wouldn't be what you wanted to hear. I'm sorry, Rainbow Dash!" Up on Canterlot High's rooftop, all the other girls were heartbroken to see what just happened. Pinkie was about to fall off again and everyone else was getting ready to go home, knowing that they have failed. "Poor Applejack!" said both Rarity and Fluttershy. "I guess...it's time for me to return to Equestria. I failed you, big brother and sister-in-law!" lectured Princess Twilight. "It was nice meeting you girls again..." While Rainbow Dash and Applejack weren't looking, she climbed down without being stopped and has officially left the human world. "Now what're we going to do?" Pinkie asked. Sunset Shimmer took a deep breath. "Nothing... Let's just go home." Her friends nodded in agreement with her and they started to climb down. "Nobody else is going to make fun of you and even if they did, I would always defend you!" Applejack cried. "Please Rainbow... I don't want you to leave us...leave me. That's...the truth... You mean a darn lot to me!" "...Now you're making me cry too!! I'm sorry for worrying only about myself and not realizing how much this means to me, err I mean, us... I just didn't know what to do at this point. You mean a lot to me, too! So...it's clear to me that I care about my friends the most, you especially. I'll never leave you or the others! I-I...love you so much, Applejack!" "I love you too, Rainbow Dash!" While they were crying, they have suddenly ponied up after showing their Elements of Harmony. The other girls turned around to see the two glowing above. "What???" they both asked. The necklace around Rainbow's neck was glowing more than her glow right now. It makes her know what to do immediately. "A.J., take my hand..." "Okay..." "I'll be together with you...forever... My heart depends on you." "My heart...belongs to you, also, Rainbow." Applejack replied. "Together forever!" they both chanted. Before turning back to normal, they sealed the deal with a very passionate kiss. It was still the middle of the night and their friends were happy to see them finally unite. As they all went home, the last sight to be seen was Rainbow Dash and Applejack's hands being held in unison. "I love you!" they said once again. The End
Epilogue Epilogue After Rainbow Dash and Applejack fell in love with each other, Princess Twilight returns home to Ponyville. But still in disbelief, she doesn't know that she actually succeeded. Before she could even explain herself, Princess Cadance and Shining Armor congratulate her, with Cadance being able to sense love from another world. Meanwhile, both lovers of the human world went to spread the big news to their friends, and they were happy, despite already seeing them come together. Rarity even brings up marriage already, but the rest would obviously wait on that. Rainbow Dash and A.J. did promise to marry each other one day, in private. The Shadowbolts were informed as well, but they already had confidence in Rainbow. She kisses Applejack in front of her friends, which made them feel in awe. However, in Equestria, things were different for their Equestrian counterparts. "It's good to see you come back, Twilight!" said Starlight Glimmer. "Good to see you too, Starlight! Where's Spike?" "He's sleeping...still. Right, Applejack?" She winked at her. "Eeyup," as she stole Big Macintosh's words. "Have any of you seen Rarity?" "Maybe Canterlot Boutique?" Twilight suggested. "Thanks Twi!" A.J. replied. This made her feel something a bit odd. "Her human self loves Rainbow Dash," Twilight said in her mind. "But then that means..."
