Screw it, Applejack Gets A Harem!

Chapters

The Intro Chapter! - or - The Thing Most People Usually Skip in Games
Tea-Time Tragedy! -or- Judas, Thou Art A Rabbit!
Naughty Nurse Nonsense -or- Giggling All the Way
Salacious Scheming Seamstresses -or- DAYUM GURL!
Summer Solstice Scuffle -or- Return of Nightmare Moon Electric Boogaloo
Courageous Castle Crashers -or- The Harem Finally Kicked In, Let's Party!
Heartfelt Harassment -or- Love is a Battlefield

The Intro Chapter! - or - The Thing Most People Usually Skip in Games

Author's Note

Edit: Still too lazy to change things, so if you want to read through the establishing chapter that goes into detail of how the girls look and such, fine. But if ya' ain't got time for a hot pancake of description to the face, you can just go on ahead to the next chapter.

I'm gonna admit, I may have taken a bit (a lot) of inspiration in the lore/origin from MariacheatBrony's Applescratch Saga stories. Which you guys SOOOOO need to look up and read because that guy is the BOMB with his stories! He's created all this lore and this world, it's some good high fantasy awesomeness! But yeah, I just took famous horse names for like, the god and races.

But anyways, like this story, hate it, it's purely for my entertainment and there ain't thing that can be done to stop me from keeping to writing if I so choose.

Although if other people dug it that would be a bonus too. XD

The Intro Chapter! - or - The Thing Most People Usually Skip in Games

The town of Ponyville, a sleepy hamlet located in the countryside, a quiet-

"Excuse me! Can y'all hear me in there?"

A quiet-

"Ah gotta' deliver this batch ah apples, Ah can't be runnin' behind schedule!"

A-

"HELLO?"

A QUIET PLACE WHERE MANY HUMAN BEINGS LIVED AND WHERE OUR STORY TAKES PLACE SHADOWFAX DAMMIT!

Or at least for the most part. At the moment there was a woman knocking on the door to a very large, magnificent looking tree house. Not to say it was a tree house in the sense it was a bunch of wood built into the branches of tree for kids, but rather it was more like a home had been built into a tree. And it was actually considered a castle. Although before that it had been the towns library. The point being it was now basically a tree castle, made so when the newly appointed Princess of Magic had moved in there about a month ago. Princess Twilight Sparkle had been a prodigy from a young age and hand picked by the Princesses Celestia and Luna to be tutored. It was only two months ago that the princesses had ascended Twilight to be a Dyaus and had moved her to Ponyville where she could slowly come into her new role while under their supervision. The new princess had been happy to be given the library, expanding it's collection of books to the point it was one of the finest in Equestria, second only to the Canterlot Library.

As for the woman currently knocking on the door, she was a local apple farmer of the town and the main character of this story.

.... what? You expected we would follow the story of a new princess as she came into her role as a new, powerful deity and learned meaningful lessons about herself and others? Who would want to see a story about that?

That being beside the point, the apple farmer had ceased her knocking when she heard someone call to her from the other side of the door. The farmer was a tall Macha human, born and raised in Ponyville who had worked her family's farm from a young age. Her body was lean, yet belied the true power packed in her muscles. Sun-kissed skin had been given through hours of working out doors, giving a nice contrast to the pale freckles across her cheeks, her hair was the color of straw, pulled back into a pony-tail that reached her shoulder blades, and her eyes were as lush a green as the leaves of the apple trees she tended to. Her clothing was more function over style, she never went anywhere without her stetson hat, always perched on top of her head, she wore orange and red-orange plaid shirt that was rolled up at the elbows, unbuttoned so that the black undershirt underneath could be seen. Her blue jeans were beat up, faded and a bit torn in areas but the material was thick and they had held up for many years, with a brown leather belt that had three red apples on the buckle, her brown work gloves hung out of the right back pocket, and she wore a pair of brown, beat up, steel-toed work boots to finish the ensemble. The look was undoubtedly country and rugged but it seemed to work very nicely for her, doing nothing to take away from a sort of handsome femininity she exuded.

... what was was going on again? Oh yes!

The apple farmer's patience was finally rewarded when the door opened, the woman giving a bright smile to the boy who appeared.

"Mornin' Spike. Twilight still not up yet?"

The young Scathian simply shook his head. Scathians, or the slang given name Drake, were beings born from the great wyrm Scatha and fabled foe of Shadowfax. Typically dragons only inhabited the wastelands to the south but upon passing a test to hatch his egg, Twilight had adopted Spike and raised him as her own son. He had grown into an upstanding boy, with a green faux-hawk, green eyes with slit pupils, and wore more casual clothes like t-shirts, purple hoodies, jeans and sneakers. So far his Scathian powers had been limited to breathing fire and sending messages, as he grew more of his power might show... his skin becoming as hard as diamond, summoning claws as hard as steel and fangs as sharp as daggers. He might even be able to increase his size and change his form to resemble the great wyrm of legend. But for now, he was still the boy that the town (for the most part) was fond of.

"Nah, she's wanted me to answer the door because for some reason. Last I checked she was busy looking in the mirror-"

"Thank you for answering the door Spike, I can handle this now!"

Soon the boy was whisked away and a fairly flustered looking Twilight Sparkle, a slightly sheepish grin on the Dyaus woman's face and her hands behind her back, although it seemed awkward for her to do so with the purple wings already there. The princess had yet to be comfortable with the idea of hiring servants so it was still just her and Spike living in the great tree castle, she had probably rushed down a lot of stairs since she seemed a bit flushed and out of breath. Today she was dressed in something the farmer had found to be the usual, a dark purple sweater vest with a star over the left breast which was over a longer, light blue blouse, followed by beige khaki pants and a pair of black and white chuck neighlor sneakers. Her long, indigo hair reached to mid-back and had a purple and pink streak through it and her eyes were a pretty shade of light purple, the bangs long enough to conceal the dark tattoo across her forehead, a mark all Hrimfaxi were born with at birth and each mark having it's own pattern unique to each Hrimfaxi. Since the book enthusiast stayed inside more often than not, her skin was more on the fair side.

"H-Hi Applejack, sorry I kept you waiting, I was um, busy."

"Shoot, it'll be fine 'Sug. If Ah hustle Ah'll be able to make it. Ah'll be happy to take yer' order inside if'n ya' like, s'alittle heavy."

Easily hoisting the basket under her arm, Applejack stepped inside and followed Twilight towards the kitchens. The main lobby of the library was very impressive, and bigger on the inside than the outside thanks to a bit of impressive magic on the princess's part. Three floors were arranged in a circle, with the desk at the center currently manned by Spike now that the Scathian had returned to his post. The kitchens would be in the main palace proper above the library and to the right, well stocked with top-line appliances, but success was hit or miss depending.

"Um... so, how's your morning so far Applejack?"

Not seeing Twilight grimace softly since she was in the pantry putting the basket of apples away, Applejack stepped out a moment later.

"Pretty good. Mainly gettin' this done 'fore Ah get home fer more chores."

"Mm-hm. That's good. Er, well the chores must be hard, maybe not good, um..."

"Ya okay, 'sug?"

Concerned, Applejack stepped a little closer and eyes Twilight, who glanced away and her face seemed to redden slightly.

"Ya' been gettin' enough sleep? Ya' seem a bit off."

"Oh yeah! Fine! Totally fine! Anyways, I don't want to keep you from the rest of your deliveries!"

After a nervous laugh, Twilight escorted Applejack to the front door, the blond following before giving a nod and a smile.

"Alright. Take care a' yerself Twilight."

Watching the farmer head back to her horse drawn cart, Twilight slowly closed the door before she gently began to hit her head against it.

"Stupid, stupid, stupid!"

"Whoa there Chester."

Giving a gentle pull on the reigns, the large, shaggy white horse slowed to a stop on the street. In the land of Equestria, horses were of course treated with care and respect since they were the children race of Shadowfax. One simply did not "own" a horse, they had to be accepting of the human and choose to work by a human's side, even if they were born of horses who had already chosen to work with humans. Chester had been born eight years ago and had accepted Applejack along with the rest of the Apple family. When she got down from the cart, the blonde made sure to gently pat the white horse before retrieving three bushels of apples, each carefully stacked on top of the other and carried on one shoulder.

Her current stop was around the back of a bakery/cafe known as Sugarcube Corner where Mr. and Mrs. Cake, their twin children Pound and Pumpkin, and their apprentice/town party planner worked and lived. Before she even got to the door it burst open and the blonde braced herself as a blue of pink and light blue zoomed out towards her. She managed to catch said blur as a pair of arms wrapped around her neck, seeming used to such a thing as she expertly kept the basket of apples balanced.

"Hiya AJ! Right on time!"

"Hey there Pinkie Pie."

When the other Macha woman pulled back, Applejack was able to get a good look at her outside of all the pink, poofy hair that was kept in a short style. Along with a pink t-shirt that had three balloons on it, two blue, one yellow, she also wore a pair of light blue capris, sandals, and she had bangles and bracelets of many colors up and down her arms. Her skin was an attractive peaches and cream shade and her bright blue eyes always seemed to be full of mirth and light.

"Glad you made it with the apples! Lately the apple-ly things we've been making have really been selling! Which isn't surprising because your apples are so yummy and that's cause you work so hard so why wouldn't they be? And-"

"Whoa, slow down there Pinks. Ah appreciate all the praise, though it's a family effort ta' make all these apples good. Now where ya' wan' 'em?"

"Hee-hee, right! Don't worry AJ, I'll get 'em!"

Quick as a flash, the shorter woman grabbed the baskets and zoomed inside, seeming to not be gone for more than a few seconds before returning with a paper bag in hand.

"Thanks again AJ! And um, I know you work hard and stuff, so I back up something fresh baked today! It's a pumpkin cinnamon pecan nut muffin! They're supposed to be seasonal and fall still isn't here yet but I thought it'd be a nice treat! I didn't make it too sugary or too rich!"

"Aww, thank ya' kindly Pinkie. Ya' sure ya' don't want me to pay ya' or nothin'?"

"Nah, I just wanted to give you something yummy!"

Taking the paper bag, Applejack accepted yet another hug from the pink haired girl, giving her a pat on the back and a bright smile before getting onto her cart.

"Thanks again Pinkie, ya' have a good day now!"

"You too AJ! See you later!"

Waving and watching the farmer head off, Pinkie Pie smiled giddily before bouncing off back into Sugarcube Corner.

"Darling, you simply must let me make you a new attire. Now, I know you're not one for high fashion, but I've been um, studying, what you usually wear and I think I could come up with something that you like!"

On her trek finishing her deliveries, along the way Applejack had run into Ponyville's very own posh seamstress Rarity. The woman had skin almost like porcelain, her purple hair styled meticulously with it's usual curls, and make up applied expertly to highlight her rich, royal blue eyes and the elegant, almost cursive-like deep blue tattoo on her forehead. As was usual, she was dressed in beautiful, stylish clothes that she had made herself yet were simple and easy to wear for the summer weather. A cute white blouse, a knee-length purple skirt with three diamonds on the left side, knee-high black boots, and she even carried with her a parasol to shield herself, and now Applejack, from the heat of the sun.

While their tastes seemed to be the exact opposite more often than now, Applejack didn't mind the Hrimfaxi woman's company. Although lately she had gotten a little more clingy than Applejack was used to.

"Ah appreciate it Rares, but Ah'm good with what Ah got. Ah still got plenty a' clothes that're in good condition."

That caused the seamstress to pout softly and gently lean against Applejack's side, the blonde not saying a word but instead looking up to the sky as Rarity spoke once more.

"But Applejack, you would look so good in my designs! Why, when you were done with your chores, I would simply love if you came by my boutique and-"

Suddenly she was pushed away, the fashionista gasping softly and looking hurt... until a split second later Applejack raised her arms in an 'x' to guard as something came down from the sky, a colorful sneaker hitting right square in the middle of Applejack's guard. It didn't send the farmer flying but it did make the cart roll back about fifty feet, sending a few people on the street jumping out of the way as Rarity hung onto the cart for dear life.

"Hey Rainbow Dash."

"S'up AJ."

That was about the extent of the pleasant exchange, Applejack having a hold on Rainbow Dash's ankle right after the kick landed and soon after she tossed the Arion woman away from her. She landed about twenty feet away, wings flared out to help catch and stabilize her fall so that she landed on one knee. One of the more colorful residents of the town, captain of the weather patrol and training to be apart of the elite Arion stunt and task force team the Wonderbolts, Rainbow Dash really seemed to be a one of a kind resident and prided herself as such. Her hair was every color of the rainbow and reached mid-back, her skin bronzed from many hours in the sun, her runner's body filled with energy and her sky blue wings were some of the most powerful and grand ever seen in the present day. She wore a simple dark blue tank top with a red, yellow and blue lightning bolt coming out of a cloud on the back, dark grey jeans, and the colorful pair of sneakers Rarity had gotten a glimpse of. She had a nose stud on the right nostril and an stud above the left eye. When she looked up, fierce magenta eyes watched as Applejack got off the cart as a cocky smirk slipped on her face.

Without a word she launched herself at Applejack, throwing a left punch that the farmer caught before following up with a round house kick that Applejack promptly ducked. The blonde managed to be quick enough (or Rainbow Dash was taking it easy and slowed down enough) that she wrapped her arms around the Arion, pulling the woman's back to her chest in a firm embrace.

"Now ya' know Ah like a good rumble Dash, but Ah'mma have to take a rain check today."

"Tch, you just wanna call it off cause I was gonna kick your butt."

With a roll of her eyes and a smile, Applejack let the short woman go before turning and heading back to her cart.

"Right, 'course that's the reason. N' Rares, Ah'm afraid Ah gotta' ask ya' to get off. Ah only got one more stop 'fore I head home n' that'll be quite a walk for you."

"Oh. Of course, thank you for being so considerate, Applejack."

Seeing the other look downcast, Applejack moved around to Rarity's side and offered a hand to help her down. The Hrimfaxi looked slightly flustered but graciously accepted, daintily stepping down and giving the farmer an appreciative smile.

"Thank you darling. And please keep in mind, my offer for new clothing or even a quick fix is always open to you."

"Ah appreciate it Rares. Ah'll see ya' around. You too Rainbow."

The Hrimfaxi and the Arion watched the cart until it was out of sight.

"You know, you say you're a lady but I don't think ladies drool like that."

Hearing the quip, Rarity shot the other a scowl.

"Oh? And I suppose accosting her to get her attention is so much better?"

They both stared at each other for a long time, thinking of all the things they could fire back at one another but refraining. No, they wouldn't make a scene and they didn't want to do anything they would regret. Things had been kept civil and things would continue to stay civil so long as no one broke the truce. With that in mind, the two turned and headed off in different directions.

The last stop was actually near her home by Sweet Apple Acres, a small cottage near the edge of the Everfree forest where Fluttershy lived, having moved there about two years ago at the same time Rainbow Dash moved to Ponyville. The Arion woman was soft spoken and timid, but ultimately very kind, especially to animals. There were rumors that her kindness to nature and to the wild horses made Shadowfax smile upon her, keeping her home safe from the more dangerous creatures from the Everfree that could have easily wandered by and caused harm.

It had been a detour off the usual dirt road and the taking of another for a couple of minutes, Applejack parking the cart before reaching the small brook and walking up the rest of the way with a small basket of apples under her arm. Instead of her usual loud knock as she did at Twilight's castle, this knock was softer and she didn't shout out, not wanting to give the woman a start. It would only take about a minute or two before the door opened a crack and a wary, teal blue eye looked out.

"Oh, Applejack!"

Even though her voice was as soft as a spring breeze, Applejack caught what was said easily enough and smiled as the door opened fully. Compared to her athletic friend Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy was more sylphlike, with lightly tanned skin and long, light pink hair that reached her waist. Her wings were a warm cream in color and she was dressed in a pastel green sundress that had three pink butterflies on the right hip, sandals, and a bracelet that appeared to be woven out of all natural plant material if Applejack had to guess (no way would Fluttershy use something made out of animals!). The normally timid woman seemed a little more jittery than usual, fiddling with the bracelet on her right wrist.

"I-It's good to see you again, Applejack. U-Um, are you here to deliver the apples?"

"Right as rain 'Shy. Let me put these in yer pantry for ya'."

It took a little work stepping past all the various critters inside but with a little navigation and help from Fluttershy, the blonde had made it to the kitchen without mishap. As she set the basket away on a shelf in the pantry, Fluttershy seemed to be battling back and forth on something in her mind. Not snapping out of it until Applejack stepped out of the pantry.

"Alright, that's settled. Ah'll get outta' yer hair 'Shy."

"Um... okay. But um, Applejack?"

Looking curiously at the other woman, Applejack waited patiently for Fluttershy to say her peace, knowing not to pressure the other into hurrying up.

"Um... I was wondering, if you had the time that is... would you... like to join me for tea?"

"S'much as Ah would love to, 'Shy, Ah gotta' be gettin' back to the farm. Got a mess o' chores to do."

"Oh..."

Seeing how down Fluttershy looked did get to Applejack, it was like she had kicked Winona! The blonde rubbed the back of her neck and went over her schedule in her head for a moment.

"But Ah won't be too busy Friday. Hows 'bout Ah have tea with ya' then?"

"F-Friday would be fine. Perfectly fine!"

With her mood now brightened, Fluttershy walked Applejack to the door and watched as the farmer returned to her cart before closing it. Then she promptly moved over to her couch and collapsed upon it, one hand over her racing heart and a small, happy smile on her face.

By the time Applejack made it back to Sweet Apple Acres it was lunch time and she could smell the squash and carrot soup all the way from the barn where she stored the cart! After she unhitched Chester and put him out to pasture, she was quick to get to the table, having gotten their first ahead of her siblings as her grandmother ladled soup into bowls.

"Hey there Jackie girl! How was yer day?"

"Oh same ol' same ol'. Anythin' happen while Ah was gone?"

"Pack o' owl bear wandered in from tha' Everfree."

"AGAIN?"

Tea-Time Tragedy! -or- Judas, Thou Art A Rabbit!

It was late Friday morning in the quiet town of Ponyville, all of it's citizens went about their-

"ARE YOU SERIOUS?!?

... their-

"YOU'RE SERIOUS!"

Ugh... fine, our terrible story starts near Ponyville's town hall, up on a cloud where there sat a familiar rainbow haired woman with a certain white rabbit sitting on her knee. The rabbit had gone through a series of complex moments that won't be described because that would require far too much effort and words. Instead the bottom line is the little rabbit fink named Angel had ratted out his caretaker Fluttershy's plans to have tea alone with Applejack today. Why would he do so? Some think the little jerk is pure evil. Some say he was jeal jealous and wanted to keep Fluttershy all to himself (not in that way, GET YOUR MIND OUT OF THE GUTTER, ONLY WOMEN WILL BE HOOKING UP IN THIS TALE.... erm, that is to say... fuck, moving on!) or some would say that he was a petty little thing unhappy that Fluttershy didn't make his special breakfast exactly and had been paying minimal attention to him while she prepared for Applejack's arrival.

... nah, the little rat was definitely pure evil.

But no matter his own personal agenda, he had brought Rainbow Dash good information. She didn't like to think she would have to get in Fluttershy's way but her friend had made an unfair move! She was just so... nice! And she didn't have to challenge Applejack to competitions or fights or sleep in Applejack's trees waiting to get kicked off so that Applejack would feel so bad and take care of her and then kiss her and then... the point being, Fluttershy been unexpectedly bold and it was time for her to take action so she didn't win!

"Alright you little bastard."

Picking the white rabbit up, she stepped off the cloud, her wings opening up and catching the air to allow her to float gently to the ground. Once she had landed, she set Angel down and pointed in the direction of Fluttershy's cottage.

"Get home before she notices you're gone. You'll get your damn rainbow coated carrots tomorrow."

The rabbit crossed his arms and glared at her with those black beady eyes, as if saying 'they better!' before drawing his paw across his throat. It was strangely unnerving... but not enough since he was still a tiny fluffy rabbit. Rainbow Dash shook her head as she watched him hop off, at first wondering how the little rat could stand to have such a spicy treat, then wondering her next move? Her plan would require planning, nuance, awesomeness!

Her face lit up as the plan came to mind and she was quick to take off to the air!

Unfortunately, unbeknownst to her, a certain pink haired pastry chef with a pair of primo binoculars had been watching Rainbow Dash from the pole at the top of the town hall when she had noticed the white rabbit scurrying around earlier.

"Hmmmm..."

Having woken up earlier to feed her animals, request that they give her some privacy this afternoon and made sure her cottage was clean, Fluttershy kept glancing at the clock in her living room every now and then as she checked off the list in her mind. All the fur and any messes swept up? Check. Incense burning to fill the house with a pleasant yet not heavy scent? Check. Treats Applejack would like set on the plate? Check. Kettle on? Check. Water AND tea in the kettle? Check. Her appearance?

One last check in the mirror proved that she still looked fine. She was wearing the long skirt, tank top and slip on shoes that Applejack had once said she looked cute in. She even had a butterfly clip in her hair so that it wouldn't obscure her face. This was going to be perfect! She would have Applejack alone and they could talk. Then, hopefully, Applejack would feel the same way about her and they would be together! All alone... in her house... where her bed was upstairs.

A gentle knock at the door made her jump slightly with a small 'eep!' as she was suddenly pulled out of her fantasies. Despite taking a moment for the very noticeable blush to leave her face, her heart was still hammering away at the inside of her ribcage as she approached the door. When she opened it, she smiled seeing Applejack on the other side, dressed as she normally was but still looking like the most attractive woman in all of Equestria. She nearly melted when Applejack gave her that endearing, handsome smile!

"Howdy, sorry if'n Ah'm late. Had a little to-do ta' finish cleanin' up on the farm."

Stepping aside to allow Applejack in, she closed the door behind them and motioned for Applejack to have a seat on the couch.

"Oh? Were the chores hard to do?"

"Somethin' like that. Had ta' herd a mess o' owl bears offa' our property. Lil' guy got separated n' started squalin', that caused the mama to freak out on us n' well... got the job done. Weren' pretty though."

Having been on the move to the kitchen, Fluttershy stopped, eyes widening as she turned back to the blonde.

"Oh my goodness! Is everyone okay? Y-You could have called me, I could have helped..."

Before she could fret more though, Applejack gave her that smile again and shook her head.

"Shoot 'Shy, mah family's had to deal with them Everfree critters before, Ah wouldn't want ya' riskin' yer neck on my account. 'Sides, no one else got hurt, Ah made sure o' that. E'en if'n that mama did give me a love tap."

Feeling the heat in her body rise as Applejack lifted her shirt, it soon plummeted when she saw the bandaged wound on Applejack's left side.

"Oh... oh my... you should be home resting! But I made you come out here..."

Unnecessary guilt started to well up inside of her. She hated feeling that way but what she hated even more was seeing that Applejack was hurt! But despite that she came out here to have tea when she should be taking it easy. What if the wound opened up? What if-

"Shy? Shy!"

Having been so caught up in her guilt and panic, Fluttershy blinked when she finally noticed that Applejack was standing right in front of her, having placed a hand on her shoulder and looking very concerned.

"Shy, Ah'm fine. N' Ah'm here cause Ah wanna be. Ya' know it's gonna take more n' a lil' scratch ta' put me down. So don' ya' worry 'bout me, 'kay?"

Gulping softly, Fluttershy nodded once before she stared right into those beautiful green eyes. They always looked so kind and filled with warmth. The Arion could feel her heartbeat start to race again, it felt like a moment out of her romance novels! Just as Applejack started to pull her hand away, Fluttershy knew she had to take her chance!

"A-Applejack... I-"

Suddenly there came a resounding 'CRASH' from the front of her house before the door flew open as someone rolled inside, coming to a complete stop right in front of her and Applejack.

"R-Rainbow Dash?!"

"Fucking... OW!"

The rainbow haired Arion looked as if she had gone through a bush, or, most likely, a tree top. Leaves were sticking out of her hair, feathers askew in her wings, and there even seemed to be a few splinters in her clothing.

"What in tarnation Dash?!"

"Hey, I'm sorry alright? Ow... trick gone wrong."

While her tricks did go wrong sometimes, Fluttershy could not help as though this were a little... convenient. As Rainbow Dash sat up, wincing all the way and swearing some more, there came a third intruder that poked her head through the door.

"Nice one Dashie! Althouuuuugh I'd only give it a five out of ten, needs more crash."

Pinkie Pie then looked to Fluttershy and Applejack, beaming with a smile that was almost a little too innocent to Fluttershy.

"Hi Flutters! Hi AJ! What's up?"

"Er, me n' 'Shy were jes' 'bout to have some tea."

"Oooo! Sounds good! I was actually on my lunch break when I saw Dashie start to lose it with the trick! Mind if I join? I brought all sorts of yummy treats!"

Feeling exasperated and knowing the moment was lost, Fluttershy could feel the temptation to say 'no', but it was quickly squashed under the steel boot of her kindness. After all, Rainbow Dash did look legitimately hurt and Pinkie Pie looked so hopeful. So with a defeated nod, Pinkie Pie gave a small cheer before producing a basket from behind her back that Fluttershy was pretty sure wasn't there a second ago.

"Great! I'll go set up in the kitchen!"

"I'll... go with you to get the tea. Rainbow Dash, come with me and I will help patch you up."

Even though she was about to protest, Fluttershy actually managed to assert herself and gently pull Rainbow Dash up and guide her into the kitchen. Once there and she was sure Applejack wouldn't come in, Fluttershy turned to the other two and crossed her arms

"What?"

"Rainbow Dash... did you crash into my house on purpose?"

"What!? No! Nooooo. No! Of course not... okay, yeah."

They had been childhood friends and Fluttershy knew when her friend was lying. She also knew just the right stare to give that let on she wasn't buying it and Rainbow Dash should just drop the lie.

"And you Pinkie Pie?"

"Oh, I saw Rainbow Dash talking to Angel near the town hall through my binoculars! It's suuuuper easy to learn how to read lips, so I followed!"

Angel had told Rainbow Dash?! At first Fluttershy looked hurt, then she looked so mad that she flew off the handle! By stamping her foot on the ground.

"I can't believe you two!"

"Hey, you know how we feel 'Shy! And you making a move like this, I had to do something!"

"But did you have to ruin my chance?"

She had taken forever to work up the nerve and when the moment presented herself, it was gone! She felt so angry she could scream! At least until all three heard a very familiar voice lilt in from the living room.

"Why darling, I had absolutely no idea you would be here!"

Three heads popped out of the kitchen to see Rarity had invited herself in, a book in hand as she sashayed her way over to take a seat next to Applejack that was just a little bit too close to the farmer.

"Um, hello Rarity... I wasn't expecting you today."

Glancing over to Fluttershy and giving a pleasant smile, Rarity held up the book in her hand for the other to see.

"Simply returning one of your charming little romance novels my dear. While not quite to my tastes, I will admit that I enjoyed it. Is that some of your delicious Jasmine tea I smell?"

Knowing that Rarity's tastes were considered more on the... mature side, Fluttershy could only guess that some how Rarity had gotten wind of this somehow and had made an excuse to come over. With a bowed head and a reluctant sigh, Fluttershy knew there was no way to salvage her afternoon with Applejack.

"Would you like to stay for tea, Rarity?"

"Why that sounds fabulous Fluttershy, I would be delighted!"

"Well shoot, too bad Twilight ain't hear. Might do her some good ta' get outta' the castle."

And just like that, in a flash of purple light, the Princess of Magic had appeared in the center of the living room, making everyone jump in surprise. Not at all seeming nervous and a little suspicious, she turned and smiled a bit, slightly anxious smile to Fluttershy.

"Hi Fluttershy! Sorry to drop in on you like this, but I was going over my records and noticed one of your books was past due!"

"Um... I don't think so..."

"Really? But I was so sure of it. Perhaps I'll have to triple check my records... anyways, what are you girls up to?"

Knowing where this was going, Fluttershy knew had she no choice but to invite her as well, the afternoon completely shot as now all her friends slash main rivals were under one roof. The final nail in the coffin was when a small Macha girl ran in and closed the door behind her, amber eyes wide and panicked. The youngest of the apple siblings, Applebloom, her long red hair tied into a pink bow, wearing a yellow shirt, dark blue overalls and work boots.

"Sis! Sis! We got major problems!"

"Slow down, what kinda problems?"

"Erm, remember how ya' told me ta' never pet a baby owl bear?"

"Oh no... wait, Ah thought they left tha' property?"

"W-Well... today at school, Diamond Tiara bet me n' mah friends we couldn't e'en get near one afer Ah told 'em what happened a couple days ago. N' well, we all went out to the' woods..."

Suddenly there came a bellowing roar that sounded uncomfortably close.

"Well, we pet it n' the mama chased us n' Ah sorta' ran into a manticore!"

Suddenly the door burst open once more, this time flying off it's hinges and crashing into Twilight Sparkle, sending her flying back to the far wall. She was sitting in a slump against the wall now, cross-eyed and possibly a bit concussed at the moment and unable to act. Applejack was immediately on her feet, eyes hard and flashing with anger as she rushed to the door and grabbed the large, lion-like paw, shoving it out of the way before she drew her hand back and landed a punch square on the manticore's nose, sending it tumbling head over heels backwards. As the Macha woman rushed in to continue the assault, the manticore regained it's bearings and lashed out with it's tail, intending to sting Applejack and kill her with it's deadly poison! The blonde managed to jump back out of the way in time to avoid it, but there was no dodging the follow up paw that hit her in the left side.

With a cry of pain she was sent back, crashing into the side of Fluttershy's house and sliding to the ground. She clutched her left side as the manticore stalked closer, ready to make the killing blow when a certain Arion got in between it and it's next meal. As scared as Fluttershy felt, there was no way she could stand by and just watch! But even the full force of her stare was doing nothing against this furious beast!

"Don't! I won't let you hurt her!"

"Shy, NO!"

Just as the manticore lunged towards them, Fluttershy felt herself brought into a strong, yet gentle embrace as Applejack turned them around, using her body to shield the slender woman from the oncoming assault.

But instead of seeing the horrifying sight of the woman she cared so deeply for being torn to shreds, instead a sky blue blur swooped into the manticore's side, sending it flying before it crashed into a tree, snapping it in half as the rest came crashing down on it, knocking it unconscious.

"That's right! You got Dashed!"

Despite the triumphant air around Rainbow Dash, it was sort of ruined since she still looked a mess from her earlier crash. Fluttershy was fairly certain the other was still in pain from earlier based on how watery her eyes looked. But at the moment she was only concerned for one person in particular. Feeling something warm and wet, she stepped back and saw to her horror that blood was seeping through Applejack's clothes. The wound from the owl bear!

"Applejack!"

"Ah... Ah'll be fine Shy. But... dun' ya' ever... do that again. Don't want ya'... getting hurt..."

A little light headed, the farmer was hanging onto Fluttershy to support herself up, the pink haired woman not caring that her clothes were being stained with blood as she pressed herself to Applejack's side to help her stand.

"Ugh, no I'm fine... thanks for the concern girls- SWEET SHADOWFAX'S MANE! Applejack!"

Having regained consciousness and joined the others outside, she saw the state that the farmer was in and immediately jumped into action.

"I'll teleport you to the hospital! Thank god I happened to come by-"

"More like you were scrying..."

"Shut up!"

Twilight shot a dirty look to Rarity before hurrying over, grabbing Applejack's hand and having no choice but to teleport Fluttershy with them since it looked as if the Arion was not going to leave the blonde's side. In a flash they were gone, leaving Rainbow Dash, Rarity and Pinkie Pie behind to deal with the mess.

Once at the hospital and the doctors had patched Applejack up, the farmer was resting in one of the hospital beds with Twilight and Fluttershy by her side.

"Sorry that got outta' hand Shy."

"It wasn't your fault. N-No one could have expected that."

"Still... Ah'll tell ya' what, we'll take a rain check n' try agin' 'nother time. 'Kay?"

"O-Okay..."

"Come on Fluttershy, let's let Applejack rest."

With one last smile exchanged between them, Fluttershy bid goodbye to Applejack and left the room with Twilight, both women silent until the Hrimfaxi finally spoke up.

"This definitely makes things more awkward between us... right? Because you know... the rest of us are going to have to try harder now."

Knowing the other held no malice or ill intent in the comment, Fluttershy simply gave a nod but thought over everything that had happened today. It was definitely going to be harder now that the other girls seemed willing to step up their game... but there had been a moment with Applejack today. Before the whole manticore thing of course. She wasn't happy that the other could have been killed of course but... Applejack had tried to protect her. A small smile came to her face. There was going to be a next time for sure. Then Applejack would know how she felt.

"... it's kind of morbid to see you smiling when she's lying in a bed injured you know?"

"Eep!"

Author's Note

*last check* 2 likes against 7 dislikes.

*puts on sunglasses* GAME ON. :ajbemused:

Naughty Nurse Nonsense -or- Giggling All the Way

It would be about two day of blood transfusion, bed rest, and of course a little magic before Applejack was allowed to leave the hospital. Her brother had come by with another of the horses, Chestnut, and the cart to help haul her home. While the blonde was eager to get back to work she knew that it wasn't going to happen just yet. Between the owl bear and the manticore, it hurt her left side to move too much and she knew the doctor had informed her family, the doctor knowing just how stubborn Applejack could be. Which meant no one in her family would allow her to lift a finger until she was healed up.

The mere thought of that made Applejack groan softly, tilting her head back and gazing up at the blue sky above her. As hardy as Macha were, it would be a couple of days before she could get to work again. Her skin had healed over and her torn muscles had a jump start thanks to the magic, but her ribs would still need some more time. The last thing she needed right now was to be out of commission when there was so much to do around the farm!

When they finally made it home, the cart slowed to a stop and her brother Big Mac got off the driver's seat. He was taller than her and full of muscle, he was probably one of the strongest Macha around, second only to her and even then it was a slim margin of difference. His strawberry blond hair was short yet shaggy, his green eyes were just a shade darker than her own, and he wore a red plaid, button up shirt, beat up old work jeans and work boots.

The quiet man was as gentle as could be though as he helped his little sister out of the cart and began guiding her to the porch of the house... that was currently blocked by a pink and blue gift box that was larger than him! The Apple siblings exchanged a puzzled look before they both jumped as there came a loud 'pop'! Followed by a shower of confetti as the four walls of the box fell open, revealing a very energetic, and exciting looking Pinkie Pie! Wearing a light pink nurses uniform with blue accents that showed off ample cleavage, pink stockings with blue garter belts, and a pair of powder blue and white tennis shoes!

"IIIIIIIII am you're singing nurse today!

I plan to make you well!

Being hurt, it really sucks!

You're so down and I can really tell!

That Manticore beat you up

What a meanie!

So let me help!

No task is too teenie!

You want something?

I can go at any speeds!

So don't you worry

'Cause I can handle all your needs!

So Applejack you just relax

I'm ready to take my station!

No need to fuss so

Will you be my patient?"

By the end of the short ditty, she jumped into the air as the sound of another 'pop' and confetti seemed to come out of nowhere, showering the Apple siblings that simply stared at the energetic woman before them.

"Uh, Pinkie Pie. Ah appreciate the thought, but Ah ain't no invalid. Ah can take care a' mahself."

"... Ah think ya' should."

Looking up to her brother and silently asking why, he didn't verbally respond but his eyes did all the talking for him. And they seemed to say 'Look, Ah know how ya' feel n' Ah understand but yer more stubborn than Applebloom lookin' ta' prove she's all grown up. Dang that kid wants ta' grow up too fast. Anyways, the point bein' it'd be good fer her ta' look after ya' n' the more ya' rest, the quicker ya will be back up on yer feet. So just take her help.'

Honestly, Big Mac could be such a chatty Cathy sometimes.

Looking from him to the hopeful Pinkie Pie, Applejack found it hard to say no when the baker looked to eager. So with a sigh, the blonde smiled and nodded.

"Alright Pinkie Pie, yer on."

Jumping up into the air and giving a cheer, Pinkie Pie then rushed over and carefully took Applejack's arm.

"Right this way then! Where would you like to sit? The porch? The living room? Your bed?"

"The porch s'fine. Been cooped up inside too long."

Things had started off fine, Applejack sitting on the porch and relaxing while Pinkie Pie hovered nearby, rushing off to get something if Applejack wanted it and even fetching her things she didn't want! Lemonade was all well and good, but Applejack didn't need the other to prop up her feet or get her half a dozen pillows for her to rest against! When she was ready for lunch and brought to the kitchen, it had been too much with all of the food that Pinkie Pie whipped up! It was a good salad, sandwich and apple pie, but she didn't want a pecan pie, a large bowl of tomato soup, or all the grilled cheese she made to go with the soup! And while the games could be fun, Pinkie Pie worked herself up into such a rambunctious state that Applejack found it hard to relax, especially when Pinkie Pie grabbed onto her arm and pressed right up against her side! Didn't Pinkie Pie know her breasts were pressing right up against her arm?

However the final straw came that evening....

Since her skin was healed up, there was no need to worry about infection and Applejack had gone to the bathroom to take her evening shower. The bathroom began steamy despite the window being open a crack but it was just the way Applejack liked it. She undressed and stepped into the tub, tilting her head back and giving a soft, contented sigh as the hot water washed over her muscles. She liked to get it hot so that she could relax, then turn it cold at the end since that felt so refreshing. The blonde was so lost in the simple enjoyment of a shower that she didn't notice she wasn't alone.

"Time for the sponge bath!"

"WHAT IN TARNATION!?!?"

The farmer had jumped so bad she almost fell out of the tub but had been caught around the middle at the last second by Pinkie Pie. Applejack quickly covered herself as best as she could with her hands before turning around, her face red from both embarrassment and anger.

"What in the hells are ya' doin' in here?! N' WHY ARE YA' NAKED?!"

"Duh, I'm your nurse! Nurses give sponge baths! And you don't wear clothes in the shower silly! That'd be weird!"

"GET OUT! NOW!"

The anger and just how loud Applejack was made Pinkie Pie flinch back, shocked that the other woman was yelling at her.

"Pinkie Pie Ah appreciate ya' wanna help but ya've been all over me all day n' this is the final straw! JUST LEAVE ME ALONE!"

Panting softly, Applejack felt a pang in her heart as she saw the other become increasingly sad and upset, to the point where she thought she saw tears in her eyes.

"I... I'm sorry..."

After Pinkie Pie slipped out of the shower, the door to the bathroom opened and closed a couple minutes later.

"... dammit."

With a sigh, Applejack turned off the water and hurried to dry off and get dressed.

Dressed in her nurses outfit, Pinkie Pie had left the house and was slowly trudging down the dirt road to leave Sweet Apple Acres. But then a shout reached her, making her stop and turn to look back in surprise.

"Pinkie Pie! Wait!"

"Applejack! You shouldn't be hustling when your ribs are hurt!"

The pink haired woman rushed over to Applejack's side and gently took her arm to give her support. The blonde had a hand to her left side and seemed to be taking measured breaths to bite down the little shocks of pain that ran from the area.

"L-Look... le's talk."

Motioning over to her right, Pinkie Pie escorted Applejack into the orchard and over to a tree. The farmer sat down at the base before patting the spot next to her, Pinkie Pie hesitating only a moment before taking a seat, although leaving a small space between them. For awhile they were silent, Pinkie Pie not having any idea what to say or what to expect from Applejack and thus sat, nervously twiddling her thumbs.

"... are ya' okay?"

That caught her off guard.

"Of course silly, why wouldn't I be?"

"Pinkie... ya' looked ready ta' cry when Ah yelled at ya'."

The blonde farmer scooted over, closing the distance between them as she placed a hand on Pinkie Pie's shoulder.

"Ah can't say Ah'm gonna apologize fer yellin'. But Ah don't want ya' goin' off thinkin' Ah hate ya' or somethin'. Yer' as sweet as those treats ya' bake and Ah'll always like ya'."

Finally looking up, Pinkie Pie felt her heart flutter as she saw that Applejack was smiling to her. Then the others expression became deadpanned.

"But seriously, please dun' jump in the shower with me no more. You jes' jumpin' in without tellin' me we'en't nice."

"Aw, okay AJ. I'll be sure to tell you before I do!"

"Uh, not exactly what Ah-"

But then Pinkie Pie carefully swooped in and hugged her, resting her head against Applejack's shoulder with a small, happy smile on her face. The sweetness of the hug made the rest of the protest die in her throat as instead, Applejack smiled and hugged the party planned back. It was one of the best hugs that Pinkie Pie ever had, it was so comforting, warm and kind. She could even catch some of Applejack's scent with how close she was! Some people thought she smelled like apples, but it was a more sweet earthy smell that calmed the hyper woman down and put her at ease.

"What on earth are you two doing out here?"

Or at least she was until Rarity had butt in.

They both pulled away and looked back towards the road to see Rarity there, dressed in a beautiful white dress that seemed as light as the clouds and reflected the moonlight beautifully. She had a white parasol in one hand (Rarity always did like to accessorize) and what looked to be a paper back in the other.

"Hey Rares. What you doin' out this evenin'?"

"Well darling, I had thought that since you would probably need to rest in bed for a little while that you must be absolutely miserable. So I decided to come cheer you up with some delightful confections from BonBon's shop. If you would like."

"Sounds right tasty. How 'bout it Pinks?"

As she nodded, Pinkie Pie stood to help Applejack up to her feet and give her support as they headed back to the road. Now that Rarity had a better look at Pinkie Pie, she looked the baker up and down with a raised brow.

"Quite an... interesting ensemble Pinkie Pie." 'You hussy...'

"Thanks Rarity!" 'Pshh, I know you've got naughtier things!'

The subtext completely lost on Applejack, the blonde simply talked with her two friends as they headed back to the house. Or noticing how Rarity was fuming when she saw Pinkie Pie's hand slide down the farmer's muscled arm and link their fingers. Pinkie Pie was sure she was being a bit mean but right now she was too happy to care. Applejack liked her so much and now she was holding her hand! A happy giggle formed in Pinkie Pie's throat, the woman all smiles for the rest of the night...

Author's Note

I ain't much of a poet but I like to think I did a good job with Pinkie's song.

And I imagine she said the last line like Mr. Roger's "Would you be my neighbor?" :rainbowlaugh:

Salacious Scheming Seamstresses -or- DAYUM GURL!

Seriously? Again?

Yes, yes I know it's the other really popular pairing but-

... ugh, I don't care if this thing got views and a couple comments after the last chapter, it's obvious that no one wants to read this story.

Huh? .... really? ... and you'll give me photos of what she's going to wear this chapter?

... ahem, very well then, for the sake of professionalism as a narrator...

It was a sunny summer late morning in the quiet hamlet of Ponyville! Everyone was going about their daily lives, blah, blah, blah, but getting right to the good part, we focus on our lovable if dense blonde farmer making her way to a certain shop in the town. Said shop was none other than Carousel Boutique, owned by the lovely and fashionable Rarity. After yesterday Applejack was a little troubled by how Rainbow Dash had been acting, but she would have to figure out how to approach the Arion later since she had promised Rarity she would be a model for some designs she'd made. While it was an odd request since Applejack wasn't into such fancy smancy things, Rarity had been kind enough to come over the night she'd gotten out of the hospital to see how she was doing. That and if she didn't she was sure the fashionista would act all dramatic, then say something, then the waterworks and then Applejack would finally say yes, worked just as well to skip all the rigmarole at the time.

She gave a few quick knocks on the door, loud enough it was guaranteed to catch Rarity's attention on the off chance that she had gotten caught up in her work. However the blonde was surprised that in just a couple seconds the door opened, revealing said fashionista who looked excited at first but reeled it in. After all, despite what she had planned she couldn't seem so excited as to cause suspicion! So Rarity put on a more charming and sultry smile as she leaned against the door frame.

"Right on time Applejack, do come in."

With a smile and a nod, Applejack followed the other into her shop and was soon directed to the changing room where she was handed the outfit she would be trying on.

"Uh, Rares? Seems a little tight and not much there... and a little uh..."

"I know darling but the one who ordered it had.... specific tastes in mind."

When Applejack had changed and stepped out, it took all of Rarity's will to not outright drool at the sight before her. The blonde was wearing a black crop top, a pair of jean shorts, black doc neightin boots, Applejack had even put on the studded leather collar and wristbands! Over all it was a sort of high fashion punk look and it had been made to perfectly fit the blonde's measurements that Rarity had on file. Everything was on display, from the washboard stomach that had a delicious hint of definition in the abs, the dreamy muscular arms, the well endowed chest, all the way down to the farmer's tight rear and long, toned legs.

... this is still within T-rating right?

"Dunno who'd wanna wear this. Not exactly mah cup o' tea if'n ya' know what Ah mean."

"But you definitely pull off the look darling."

Smiling and with an unseen predatory glint in Rarity's eye, the Hrimfaxi woman circled the unsuspecting farmer, eying each and every inch of her body.

"Yes, you pull it off very well. But I do have a confession darling, I needed you here for much more than a fitting."

Looking curiously to Rarity, she watched as the woman sashayed over to the changing room, picking something up along the way before closing the door.

"I also needed a fresh eye to see if this order is up to task. You see, there is an up and coming pop star that needed something special for her act. She is about my size so I believe it is best I take this outfit for a... test drive if you will."

Of course coming right out and saying how she felt would be so unlady-like. Not to mention it had to be Applejack who made the choice, so Rarity was determined to make the winning move today and have the blonde all over her! When she stepped out, she smirked upon seeing the farmer do a double take, and for good reason! The Hrimfaxi woman was dressed in the sort of get up Applejack figured was supposed to be worn under clothing, not as an outfit itself. Rarity was dressed in lacy garments, what seemed to be a bra and thing along with stockings and a garterbelt, and fingerless gloves, all in red and white colors, with straps that hung off here and there, yet doing nothing to hide the woman's curves as everything seemed to accentuate her assets.

....

"Well darling? What do you think?"

"U-Uh-!"

Chuckling softly, Rarity slunk over to the gobsmacked farmer, pressing but a finger to the Macha woman's chest to make her step backward before the back of her legs hit the back of the fashionista's fainting couch, which Applejack would swear hadn't been there a second ago. Applejack gulped softly as Rarity leaned over, presenting an eye full if the blonde so chose to take in the view.

"U-Uh... this part o' that... that um... test drive?"

"Mmm, you could say that. The act my client is going for is very, risque. Splits, the movement of her hips, the way she moves her body... I have to be sure this outfit is up to the task and I'll need you to keep an eye out for any wardrobe malfunctions. So shall we get started-?"

"R-Rarity!"

DAMMIT!

Ugh.... both women turned their heads to look towards the door, a very flustered and blushing Fluttershy quickly closing the door behind her as she took up the mantle of this chapter's cock blocker. Wait, is that a term you use when it's two women? Either way it makes the point.

"U-Um, y-you were l-late for o-our spa date, R-Rarity."

"Darling... that isn't until Friday."

"O-Oh? R-Really? I... I must have g-gotten the dates mixed up."

Standing up straight and putting her hands on her hips, the look Rarity gave could cut through solid steel as she glared at Fluttershy, ever so sure that the Arion woman was completely full of shit. When she glanced back over to the couch, she found that Applejack had slipped away and soon reappeared from the changing room, dressed in her usual attire with the other clothes left folded on a chair by said changing room.

"Um, sorry Rares. This kinda thing is a bit too much fer me. Ah gotta' get back to the farm n' get to mah chores. See ya' later, you too Fluttershy."

The rattled farmer was gone before either woman could say a word, Rarity's arms now crossed as she returned the full force of her glare on Fluttershy as the timid woman actually did a decent job of standing her ground and giving the other a disapproving look.

"Really Fluttershy, that was very indecent of you."

"... no more than you acting worse than a cat in heat..."

"What was that?"

"N-Nothing..."

Author's Note

....

I REGRET NOTHING. :pinkiecrazy:

Edit: Also, I'm PRETTY sure this is still t-rated. If not, then someone let me know because I don't want to get into trouble. :twilightblush:

Edit Edit: Okay, I looked up the FAQ so if I understand it correctly, then it's cool. :derpytongue2:

Summer Solstice Scuffle -or- Return of Nightmare Moon Electric Boogaloo

It had been a week since Applejack had gone to the Carousel Boutique, a week since anyone had really seen her but it was more understandable than her willfully avoiding people. With the oncoming Summer Solstice Celebration being celebrated in Ponyville this year, it had lined up perfectly for an Apple family reunion, meaning Applejack and her family had to get ready for the relatives. Of course more was added on when Twilight Sparkle, resident princess of magic had decided to throw work the blonde's way and have her cater the event. So while all five girls pined to see the lovable blonde farmer, they knew it was best to leave her to her work and make their own preparations.

.... what? I'm surprised too that I didn't get interrupted. As for why I'm still here, remember kiddies, reading is fundamental. So make sure you fucking read everything over before signing a damn contract.

I mean, I'm not even getting paid for this. You think the writer of this dreck has any money? I mean seriously-

AHEM

... right... right, where was I?

Oh yeah, giving time to what I'm guessing is the third most popular ship couple...

Now it was the night before the sun would rise in the morning and all were celebrating in their own way. Twilight Sparkle had found a moment in her day to have a small break, sitting comfortably in one of the big, soft chairs in her tree castle's library, sprucing a book of old children's tales. One in particular had caught her fancy, the Mare in the Moon. It was said that the patterns in the moon, in the shape of what looked to be a mare, were created when the great god Shadowfax banished his lover to forever reside within the moon after she had attempted to spread darkness through the land and subjugate the humans to her rule. This tale seemed to have inspired Princess Luna one thousand years ago, when she had attempted to usurp Princess Celestia and become Equestria's sole ruler. The battle had been one when Celestia supposedly wielded the mythical elements of harmony and purged the darkness from her sister's heart, restoring order and harmony.

A knock at the door caught the princess's attention and she set her book aside to go see who was calling on her. When she opened it, she was surprised to see it was Applejack but also curious when she noticed the other's mood seemed a little low.

"Applejack. I wasn't expecting to see you until the ceremony. Is everything okay?"

"Ah... guess. Cin Ah come in n' talk to ya' Twi?"

With a nod, Twilight lead the way further into the library, wishing she had taken the time to scry so that she could have seen the blonde was coming. Then maybe she could of been better prepared or even made a quick ten page game plan! Instead she lead Applejack to a small nook on the first floor and took a seat on a couch there, Applejack immediately taking a seat next to her with a slightly weary sigh.

"Ah think somethin' weirds goin' on with our friends. Ah mean, 'bout a week ago somethin' was botherin' Dash, then Ah get ta' town ta' check out how Pinkie's shindig is goin' n' she's actin' a bit odder n' usual. Then it's tense between 'Shy n' Rares. Ah tried ta' figure out what's goin' on but they're hidin' somethin' from me. Twi', ya' got any idea?"

While distracted by how close the dreamy blonde was to her, Twilight had some how managed to listen to what Applejack was saying and snap out of her stupor.

"Uh! Erm... I-I can't say for sure, no..."

There was no way she could expose the others, not only would it break the pact they had agreed on but there was also the worry of retaliation from four vengeful women. Especially if Applejack ended up rejecting them! So for the sake of friendship and her own well being, there was no way she was spilling the beans! No matter how down Applejack looked... those beautiful green eyes downcast... the good-natured farmer probably feeling frustrated that she could not help her friends work through their issues because she was so considerate.

The princess of magic was starting to noticeably fidget, playing with her fingers, biting her lower lip, Applejack had been about to ask what was wrong before the bookworm pounced and wrapped her up in a hug.

"T-Twilight?"

"I'm sorry! Applejack, I can't tell you what's wrong right now, but I promise that I'll work on it and I'll get you an answer as soon a possible!"

"A-Alright Twi! Ah appreciate it!"

Pulling back, the Dyaus woman blushed softly, a little embarrassed that she had slipped like that but none the less sincere in her words.

"Applejack, everything will be fine. I can promise you that, okay?"

"... okay Twi. Ah trust ya'."

They both exchanged smiles, Applejack's lopsided in a way that was totally adorable, Twilight's bright and a bit bashful. Then the princess glanced to clock on the wall, one of many she had set up around the library so that it would be very easy for visitors to find what the time was.

"It'll be time for the Summer Sun Celebration soon. I can't be late to introduce the princesses. I wouldn't want to delay Celestia from raising the sun!"

"Well shoot, let's get goin' then Twi'."

When Applejack stood and offered her hand to Twilight, the princess had to duck her head a moment to hide her blush. As she placed her hand in Applejack's, she marveled slightly at the feel. Having grown up in Canterlot and having such a high position as personal student to the princesses, she'd never really had the chance to meet many blue collar workers. The feel of Applejack's strong, calloused hand was still a small wonder and a noticeable difference compared to the nobles she had shaken hands with. It was a shame when the blonde took her hand back. However when they stepped out into the night and were far enough away from her tree, Twilight took a chance and moved close, slipping her arm around the other's.

"Um... sorry, it's just a little chilly."

"Shoot, dun' worry 'bout it."

Again, Twilight had to duck her head as Applejack's arm slipped around her shoulders, she could literally feel the spike in her heart rate now that she was so close to the other and it was a losing battle at attempting to not sound tongue-tied.

"R-R-Right! Yes! Body heat is good, yup!"

Trying to play off her awkwardness with a nervous laugh, Twilight and Applejack continued on their way to the town hall where it looked as if all of Ponyville was gathered. Without even looking she knew the other girls had spotted them, quite possibly giving her dirty looks but she didn't care! She only felt bad when she had to pull away and go to her post, Applejack giving her a small wave before moseying over to the table where all the food and drinks were kept. Twilight fought down her nerves as she stood on the balcony before the audience, taking a deep, calming breath before beginning.

"Ladies and gentleman, as the resident princess of magic in our town of Ponyville, it is my pleasure to announce the beginning of the Summer Sun Celebration! Soon, we will all bear witness to Princess Celestia raising the sun so that we may celebrate the longest day of the year! And now, it is my great honor to introduce you to our kind and benevolent rulers of Equestria, Princess Celestia and Princess Luna!"

At the cue of the fanfare, the Hrimfaxi used her magic to pull aside the curtains behind her to reveal... nothing! Confusion was clear on Twilight's face as she looked into the room behind the curtains, her anxiety on the rise as she saw it was empty.

"T-They're not here! How?! Who-?!"

"Thee fool..."

Suddenly, from the shadows, two glowing, ice blue eyes shone and a dark blue blast of magic hit Twilight square in the chest, launching her off of the balcony, causing surprised gasps and screams of horror from the crowd!

"Twilight!"

Instead of hitting the hard ground, Twilight found her landing to be much softer, solid but softer, and warmer... when she opened her eyes, the princess of magic found herself in the arms of Applejack.

"You alright, Twi'?"

"Y-Yes..."

However, a laugh snapped her out of the dreamy reverie, all attention going back to the platform as Princess Luna stepped out, a cruel smirk on her face as Twilight gazed on in horror.

"Princess Luna?! WHY-?"

"Enough! Thee fool, thee bethought that I wast Princess Luna, but very much t wast me

NIGHTMARE MOON!"

"Oooo, nice sound effects in the background! But hasn't that meme been done a lot?"

Fourth wall breaking Pinkie Pie aside... the whole crowd watched on in horror as Luna transformed, the Dyaus's skin becoming darker, her teeth seeming sharper as her pupils became slits. The regal dress and crown warped, replaced with a helm, metal pads with spikes, a breastplate that really only covered her breasts, a sort of metal bikini thong with a strip of fabric in front and back to provide cover, and high heeled, metal boots that came up to her knees. While there were those that trembled in fear at the ominous being before them, Rainbow Dash couldn't help but snort at the sight.

"Ain't it a little cold in that?"

When Applejack set her back on the ground, Twilight Sparkle squared her shoulders and glared up to the other.

"So you are Nightmare Moon once more... but I thought Celestia banished all of the evil from Luna a thousand years ago?"

"Oh the lady hadst weaken'd me consid'rably. but I still did exist, a bawbling parteth of me waited, gazed, and did plan! And anon I has't finally madeth mine move, aft'r a thousand years I has't did imprison Princess Celestia! And I shall anon beest the only rul'r of this land and 'twill exp'rience nothing but beautiful darkness forever!"

"... really?"

That caused Nightmare Moon to snap her attention over to the oddly attractive blonde Macha woman next to Twilight, the farmer scratching the side of her head and looking puzzled.

"What?"

"I mean... if'n that was yer plan all this time. Why'd it take ya' one thousand years? Ah cin understand maybe taking a hun'red years 'er so ta' get yer' strength back but-"

"silence! t's mine own plan and mine own plan is flawless! I has't Princess Celestia imprisoned and anon nay one can stand ho me!"

Luckily, Twilight took that opportunity to cover up such a snag in the plot by shooting off a blast of magic, hitting the balcony and making it disappear, Nightmare Moon almost falling herself but a pair of dark blue, almost black wings caught her and kept her in the air. Soon the princess of magic took to the air as well, flying straight for her and with her fists glowing with dangerous magic. They blasted off part of the roof of the town hall, taking the fight outside as magic light up the night sky. People ran outside, either to flee to their homes or to watch the spectacle, chief among them being Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Rarity and Rainbow Dash.

"Release Princess Luna from your hold and tell me where Princess Celestia is!"

"Or what? I knoweth thee, Twilight Sparkle, I've gazed thy training. . . i knoweth all thy strengths and weaknesses!"

A sudden blast sent Twilight plummeting to the ground once more, the woman rolling after she landed and weakly trying to push herself up to her knees. Nightmare Moon meanwhile, landed a few feet away and slowly began to walk up to the princess of magic, a triumphant smirk on her face as her hand began to glow with magic.

"And i knoweth thee wonneth't wend all out 'gainst me. . . because destroying me means destroying Princess Luna as well. T's a shame to has't to destroy thee, but i knoweth thee wonneth't join me. So yond just maketh thee an obstacle to-"

The monologue was thankfully interrupted as a fist came crashing into the side of Nightmare Moon's face! The woman was caught off guard and the strength was so mighty that it sent her flying back! After she recovered in mid-air and landed on her feet, Nightmare Moon rubbed her sore cheek and saw it was the Macha woman who had spoken up earlier. She could actually feel a chill run up her spine as those lovely green eyes glared at her, the blonde dropping into a fighting stance.

"Ya' ain't gonna lay 'nother hand on Twilight! Yer gunna' hafta' go through me if'n ya' wanna get ta' her!"

A small chuckle turned into raucous laughter, the smirk back on Nightmare Moon's face as she raised a hand. A barrier surrounded just her and Applejack, the others had been moving forward to stand with her but were blocked, Twilight Sparkle weakly placing a hand on the barrier.

"Applejack, no!"

The battle that commenced was a sight to behold simply because of the fact that Applejack was able to stand her ground against Nightmare Moon. The farmer had to be constantly on the move to dodge and move past all the spells flung at her, reflexes having to be sharp to strike back every time Nightmare Moon teleported behind her to strike. When there was a break in the fighting, Applejack was left panting and bruises but still standing, fists still raised and ready to keep on fighting. This, of course, made Nightmare Moon laugh again because that is what villains do in these stories.

"Not lacking. Not lacking at all. If 't be true I w're not an all pow'rful Dyaus, I might actually beest w'rri'd about losing this square. "

Menacing blue eyes took in the sight of the other, her heaving, ample chest, her muscles more exposed as some how during the fight, the farmer's shirts had been ripped to the point it seemed she was wearing little more than a raggedy crop top now. Now that she had a chance to look at the other, this bold, nicely tanned Macha was quite attractive, in both body and personality. Licking her lips, Nightmare Moon suddenly disappeared as darkness filled the area. Applejack was immediately on edge, looking around and trying to spot her when suddenly a ball of light hit her straight in the chest, a painful electric charge running through the blonde and making her scream out in pain.

Outside of the magic barrier, none of the five women could see through the dark, but all cried out the farmer's name when they heard her scream. Twilight Sparkle finally recovered enough to use her own magic to dispel the magic barrier, Rainbow Dash immediately rushing into the fading darkness with Pinkie Pie hot on her heels. However neither Nightmare Moon or Applejack were on the ground, all women turned their gaze to the sky to see Nightmare Moon hovering high above, carrying an unconscious Applejack bridal style.

"Mm, I shall taketh this one as mine own prize. And I shall waiteth at the castle of the two sist'rs, eith'r thee shall cometh to me and boweth 'r cometh and meeteth thy doom!"

Then a cloud of darkness swallowed both her and Applejack before it sped off towards the Everfree forest, Rainbow Dash tried to go after them but Twilight's magic held her back.

"TWILIGHT! LET ME GO! She's got AJ!"

"I know! But you can't just rush after her! She'll kill you!"

As much as the Arion wanted to take action, she begrudgingly knew that the princess of magic was right, floating back down to the ground and looking to Twilight, expecting answers, as did the other three women.

"I've read the tale of Nightmare Moon many times and I've read up on the elements of harmony. We need those six elements if we have any chance of defeating her without killing Luna."

"Twilight, we don't have time to go off looking for some elements-!"

"Rainbow Dash, why do you think she's waiting at the castle of the two sisters? The elements are located there, she's there to make sure I don't get to them. Because with the elements of Magic, Honesty, Laughter, Generosity, Kindness and Loyalty, she won't stand a chance."

"And we're going too, right?"

"Dash, it's dangerous..."

Of course the look that Rainbow Dash gave her as she crossed her arms gave a clear message that she was not going to be talked out of it. That same look of determination was on the others' face as well, Rarity taking the opportunity to step forward and speak.

"Twilight, she took Applejack! I think I speak for all of us when I say that we cannot just stand around idly and let that bitch steal our beloved farm woman!"

Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy nodded in agreement, so with a sigh and a nod, Twilight accepted their decision with a small smile.

"Alright. But only because I have a feeling that if I tried leaving you girls behind, you'd come anyway. Let's go girls!"

Temporarily putting to rest their feud over who would have Applejack's heart, all women turned in the direction of the Everfree forest and took their first determined steps towards their destiny.

Author's Note

*sniffs* I was just so... HAPPY when I fond that pic with Nightmare Moon and the JoJo's Bizarre Adventure sound effect.

And I ALMOST didn't make Nightmare Moon talk in ye old speech. Then I found an English to Shakespearean translation website online. :trollestia:

Courageous Castle Crashers -or- The Harem Finally Kicked In, Let's Party!

Deep within the bowels of the castle of the two sisters, a certain hapless blonde farmer was finally starting to regain consciousness. She found herself with her arms and legs chained to two pillars, finding her bonds enchanted and her struggles futile. It was then that she felt a presence, dark and sinister watching her from the shadows.

Nightmare Moon.

The woman's blue eyes glowed in the darkness before the rest of her emerged from darkness, an ancient being whose body was still taut and had all it's curves. She eyed the farmer like a hungry, mighty lioness would eye it's prey as she stalked closer to Applejack. The blonde tried to edge away to no avail as Nightmare Moon reached out and with one, skilled swipe of her hand, undid all of the buttons on the blonde's shirt with one motion, revealing more of that delightfully tanned skin. Then her hand reached lower to the Macha woman's belt buckle and-

WHOA WHOA WHOA WHOA WHOA! TIME OUT! PAUSE THE SCENE!

GAH! Shadowfax DAMMIT Pinkie Pie! How'd you get in here?!

DUH, through the door silly! It was unlocked!

... that joke was bad and you should feel bad.

Nee-yope! Anyways, gotta' tell you to ax this scene.

Really? You'd stoop so low as to be the one to get into Applejack's pants you'd come bother the narrator? Ugh, come on! The only way we're going to get better ratings is if things get sexier! I mean, there's a couple fanfics with Applejack shipped with Princess Luna and those got popular, this'd sort of be the same thing...

Nope, nope, nope! Besides, we've only got a Teen rating and I'm pretty sure Rarity used up all our lee-way in her chapter! Plus the writer doesn't do smut or M rated work cause she's kind of a prude like that!

Really?

Hey, I don't have a problem with sex! I'm just not going to write it out!

Cause you've never actually done it...

You know it's VERY easy to get a new narrator.

Oh please, and who else could you hire to read this dreck?

Oh! OH! Me me me me me!

EXACTLY.

Shadowfax dammit, Pinkie Pie! Get back in the damn forest with the others and narrator, do your damn job and read what I wrote for you! Otherwise you're going to fade from existence since you only exist while this story goes on!

Oh! Oh! That's how you want to play it?! You're really getting metaphysical with this, huh?!

EEEEEYUP!

Well FINE then! Be that way!

So Twilight and the others go through the forest and do the things. Nightmare Moon causes an rock slide, they survive. They face a manticore, Fluttershy pulls a thorn out of it's paw because fucking kindness and lack of imagination, Steven Magnet and jokes about mustaches, loyalty to friends and tapping AJ's ass so Rainbow Dash turns down the fake and NOT AT ALL evil looking Shadowbolts, oh yeah and Pinkie Pie's singing number that starts off all THAT musical thing so we have future songs whether they're needed or not...

HEY, I expect you to actually READ what I give you!

Oh piss off! You're not even trying with this fic anyway or you wouldn't of dumped all the lore in the first chapter that chased people away and you wouldn't of gone with that stupid title! You're just going to rehash the other shit from the TV show except make it so the girls come together for the common goal of wanting to sex Applejack and don't nobody want to or got time for that shit when they want to get to the main part!

... well FINE then. I guess we'll just skip over all that possible character building and get to the main part! HAPPY?

I'M ONLY MARGINALLY HAPPY, THANK YOU!

After facing many trials, learning to trust one another and realize that despite their own desires to possess the heart of the same woman that they should work together and be friends once more, the five women made it to the castle of the two sisters. Despite the dangers flung their way, Twilight Sparkle, Princess of Magic, Rainbow Dash, future Wonderbolt, Rarity, fashionista extraordinaire, Fluttershy, the kindly animal caretaker, and Pinkie Pie, a kick ass party planner, had arrived. All were determined to save the woman they loved/lusted for and followed Twilight into the crumbling castle, up the stairs and towards the area where the elements of harmony were supposed to be kept.

Upon a pedestal were six solid granite orbs, looking much different than what had been described in the history books but Twilight knew this was only because they lacked a spark to bring them to life again. All five girls gasped softly upon seeing that Nightmare Moon was there, along with Applejack! The poor blonde apple farmer was chained to a pillar with magically constructed chains, leaving her unable to use her amazing strength to break free! Still battered and bruised from her fight with Nightmare Moon earlier in the night, she truly looked to be a miserable mess and it lit a fire in all five woman seeing her this way. Yet their hearts also fluttered as she looked to them and nobly thought of their own safety first

"Run! Git outta' here!"

"Those ladies wonneth't runneth. Not at which hour the key to their vict'ry is right h're, and thee 'long with t."

Scoffed Nightmare Moon, running the back of her fingers along Applejack's cheek affectionately, which earned her five sets of eyes glaring daggers at her. Along with a frustrated groan from Rainbow Dash.

"Seriously, can anyone understand what she's saying half the time? Cause it's like... really hard."

"She's sayin' ya' won't run cause Ah guess those things r' important an Ah'm here."

"AJ, how can you understand her?"

"Considerin' how thick tha' accents are in mah family, kinda comes natural like."

"... wait, what?"

"Rainbow Dash, later."

With total seriousness and focus, Twilight Sparkle stepped forward, magical aura sparking around her hands as she moved to face Nightmare Moon.

"Thee wouldst square me again? Then thou art a bigg'r blinking idiot than I bethought! A pity since thee wouldst of madeth a fine mage to s'rve me."

Tittered Nightmare Moon, smirking as she stepped forward as well, her own magical aura coming to life with the power of a storm as it swirled around her. As much power as the Dyaus had, Twilight swallowed her fear and charged forward, sending blasts of magical energy flying towards Nightmare Moon, who simply dodged and then countered. The battle was more fierce than the last one not but mere hours ago! Twilight fighting tooth and nail, distracting Nightmare Moon as the other four girls hurried past to get to both Applejack and the elements of harmony.

"Shadow fucking fax! I can't get these to budge!"

Complained Rainbow Dash, her and Rarity trying to get Applejack out of the magic chains while Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie moved the elements off of their pedestals.

"I don't know what I really expected to do, my meager magic is no match for a Dyaus's!"

Rarity lamented, casting a glance back and seeing that Nightmare Moon was gaining the upper hand once more over Twilight Sparkle, the princess trying her best to keep up the fight and falling short. Then a final, powerful blast sent Twilight Sparkle skidding back across the ground to them, the woman coughing as some blood escaped the corner of her mouth, the young Dyaus holding her side as she glared up to Nightmare Moon.

"To square 'gainst me and to expecteth a diff'rent outcome. How brave. How futile. And as f'r those elements of harmony. . ."

Holding her hand like a gun, she fired off six shots, each hitting their marks dead center in the middle of each element of harmony, shattering them!

"Eke futile!"

"No... those were... our only chance."

Finding the energy to push herself up to her feet, Twilight looked helplessly between the shattered remains of the elements, to her friends, to Nightmare Moon and then to Applejack. It had needed a spark... but what spark? They had all five of them worked together in harmony! They had shown all of the elements tonight except! ... except honesty. Sure they were honest with each other, but they weren't honest with Applejack, were they?

Whether or not this worked, and even if it didn't, when else would Twilight have the time to say this? So with a gulp, she took a hesitant step towards Applejack, the blonde highly concerned for what would happen to them but also a bit confused by what Twilight was doing.

"Applejack... I... before we possibly die I... I wanted to say that I... love you."

Cue dramatic gasp from the girls, Applejack and the audience.

Twilight couldn't look up to Applejack, furiously fiddling with her fingers as a blush came to her face.

"I... I know we haven't shown each other long but... but you're amazing. You're so kind and easy going, you're a hard worker and you're always trying to be your best. N-Not to mention very beautiful. What I feel for you is just... magical."

Giggling at that joke, Pinkie Pie stepped spoke up as well.

"Me too! When I'm around you I just.... feel so happy, I can't stop smiling cause I feel so good being around you! It's like the best party ever!"

Then Fluttershy.

"You... you're always so kind and patient with me. I can't help but feel the same way."

Even Rainbow Dash even worked up the nerve to say her true feelings.

"Yeah... you always got my back and that's cool... and stuff. So I'd want to stick around you. I guess."

"Mm, you're all those things and more to me as well, Applejack. Knowing how much you mean to all of us, it almost makes me wish we could all just share you."

Rarity. The tart. Of course this made one or two women blush and Pinkie Pie chuckled while Twilight had a look that clearly showed she thought the idea was somewhat scandalous.

"Rarity! While I know polygamy and the like was always a big thing in Equestria's past, it's not quite as in vogue these days!"

"I know darling, but still, it seemed that would be the easiest solution!"

"Art all of thee quite done? I am losing patience!"

All having forgotten for a moment that Nightmare Moon was there, the woman tapping her toe while in the air, the five women smiled sheepishly before looking back to a stunned Applejack, Twilight being the one to speak up.

"Sorry, I know this is a lot to dump on you right now."

"S'kinda bad time fer it."

With a lopsided grin, Applejack would of rubbed the back of her neck if she could move her arms.

"Look, Ah dunno what ta' say... but if'n Ah had ta' be honest, Ah'd say y'all are a group a fine ladies. Ah'd be right honored to be with any y'all."

Before things could get any more mushy and romantic, they all noticed that Nightmare Moon was charging a great big ball of magic, ready to obliterate all of them! Twilight turned, preparing to try and throw up a shield as the other four women moved in front of Applejack protectively.

"Y'all get outta' here! NOW!"

"No! We don't leave you Applejack! We'll fight to the end!"

However, what the six women didn't see was the shards of the elements of harmony starting to glow. They flew out to create a magical shield that completely nullified Nightmare Moon's blast, the woman looking on in shock and horror as the elements got rid of the magic chains binding Applejack and surrounded all six of the women. All six of the elements formed into gold rings on the right ring finger of each woman, each with a gemstone that took different shapes and colors depending on the woman wearing it. Twilight a magenta star, Fluttershy a pink butterfly, Rarity a purple diamond, Pinkie Pie a blue balloon, Rainbow Dash a red lightning bolt, and Applejack an orange apple.

By their powers combined-!

NO.

Fine, not like commenters weren't going to make the same joke anyway...

As they floated, the five women were in a circle with Applejack in the center, a bright light before a rainbow laser blast shot out and hit Nightmare Moon! The woman trying very hard to shield herself but ultimately it was futile as she was engulfed by the light! She fell to the floor, prone as her body began to warp and change back to Princess Luna.

"We did it!"

Cheered Pinkie Pie as they all floated back down to the floor, all five women ecstatic and happy as they flung themselves at Applejack, hugging the blonde farmer who was a bit overwhelmed by the attention.

"Well done everyone."

"That voice-!"

Began Twilight, pulling away from Applejack to see a ball of light float through the window before turning into Princess Celestia. The woman was tall and tanned, a very regal and pretty looking Dyaus and who could have very well been compared to the goddesses of old. Her hair which was the many hues of a sunrise seemed to billow without wind, pink eyes staring kindly as the five woman and she was in a dress of pure white and sandals and accessories of gold.

"C-Celestia!"

Twilight had squeaked, the other five women moving to bow but stopped by a motion to not do so from Celestia.

"I am glad you all succeeded. I knew Twilight, that activating the elements of harmony was the only chance to stop Nightmare Moon, I knew you had won since upon Nightmare Moon's defeat I was released from my prison."

"I'm so glad you're okay!"

Twilight rushed forward to give Celestia a hug, the woman returning the gesture but surprised when she noticed the ring on her former pupil's finger. Then a coy smile came to her face as she glanced at the other five women.

"Which one is it?"

"Huh?"

"The one you love?"

"Oh! Um... A-Applejack..."

Blushing furiously and wondering how Princess Celestia new, she glanced back and saw the farmer step forward, removing her hat from her head to try and be even more respectful to the woman.

"Ah'm Applejack, ma'a-er, princess."

"I see... well congratulations, I wish you and your new partners happiness."

"Uh, beg yer' pardon?"

Applejack looked confused whereas Twilight Sparkle's eyes widened.

"C-Celestia... you don't mean?"

"Whut's she talkin' 'bout Twi?"

"I... I think we're... you're um... spouses now Applejack."

".... WHAT???"

Author's Note

Whenever i need to just write but not be serious, I always love coming back to this one. :trollestia:

Heartfelt Harassment -or- Love is a Battlefield

... oh wait, this isn't dead yet? Why?

.... ohhhhh, this chapter is for one of the popular ships.

Um.... so yeah, we open up a couple days later after we left our clueless heroine Applejack, recovering from a manticore attack.

Under the odd care of Pinkie Pie and her friends dropping by, Applejack was on her feet and ready to get back to work! That morning she woke up bright and early, washing up before wolfing down a hearty breakfast of flapjacks before heading out into the fields to buck some apple trees. The blonde woman was whistling a happy tune as she lead Chester through the trees, the horse pulling along a cart filled with baskets. When they finally reached an area that sorely needed bucking, Applejack got a few baskets from out of the cart, whistling a happy tune as she laid all of the baskets out before analyzing the tree.

While some thought she merely 'kicked trees', any hard working Macha farmer knew it was more than that. It was a magic all it's own as one reached out by instinct, searching for the right spot to kick on the tree, using the right amount of force in a kick, not to soft, not too hard, sending a burst of magic to all the apples that would make them fall into the baskets perfectly and being protected from most bruising on the fall. Fancy smancy high falootin' dandies in the big cities might of scoffed, but for Applejack it was an art form.

After finding the perfect spot, Applejack pushed against her chin, first towards the left, then the right, eliciting a satisfying crack from her neck each time before she stretched her arms above her head and shook out her legs. Once she had limbered up, the blonde got into a ready stance, suddenly turning into a full round house kick and ready for her boot to make contact with the firm bark of the apple tree.

Only to find herself spinning like a top as something sped by, catching her leg just before she hit her intended target and pushed so that she would start spinning around. Applejack found the world kept on spinning right after both of her feet were planted into the ground, her legs shaking as she wobbled over to the tree she had been about to kick and leaned against it for support, fighting down the bile trying to climb it's way up her throat.

"Got you good, farm girl!"

"Dang it- hurk!... Dash!"

The athletic Arion woman was hovering in the air, arms crossed and smirking to Applejack before she gently floated down, her might, sky blue wings folding behind her as she strutted over to Applejack.

"Heard today was the day you were going to feel better. Thought I'd come by and see for myself. Although I gotta' say, laying around seems to have softened you up. Too many sweets from nurse Pinkie?"

Giving Rainbow Dash a half-hearted glare, Applejack pushed away the finger poking at her stomach (to which Rainbow Dash could feel hadn't gained an ounce of fat when Applejack was laid up).

"C'mon Dash, Ah got work ta' do, so if'n ya' don't mind Ah'd like ta' get back to it!"

"What, afraid I'll whip your sorry butt?"

With a roll of her eyes, Applejack turned away from the other, trying to ignore Rainbow Dash and go try to kick another tree... when suddenly a very familiar article of clothing was missing from the top of her head! Applejack immediately whipped around, a fire in her eyes as the shorter woman began strutting away, twirling the stetson around on her finger.

"Rainbow Dash..."

Ignoring the warning tone in Applejack's voice, Rainbow Dash looked back with a smirk and put the hat on top of her own head.

"Why don't you try to take it, cowgirl?"

In the next split second Applejack charged forward, attempting to bull rush the Arion and reach out to take her hat back! But proved too slow and was rewarded with an elbow in her stomach, knocking some of the wind out of her. Rainbow Dash followed up by doing a flawless back flip, wings extending as she attempted to land a kick under Applejack's chin but the blonde managed to raise her hands in time, catching the tip of Rainbow Dash's foot in her palms to shield against damage but unable to grab hold as Rainbow Dash flipped back and landed in a crouch, wings flared, hat still on her head, and with that Shadowfax damned smirk on her face.

As for Rainbow Dash, a familiar chill went down her spine seeing Applejack's eyes, a fire lit in those eyes, born of anger but warping in meaning as she saw the blonde smirk as well now.

"Gonna' be like that, eh?"

"Eeeyup."

With wild abandon they were at each other once more, throwing punches, elbows, and kicks, trying to throw and pin each other down but either Applejack broke free or Rainbow Dash slipped away at the last second. Every second was a thrill for the Arion, knowing that each and every time she had to be on her toes since the farmer could be so damn surprising. But there was something more to it as well, beyond the thrill of a fight, beyond being able to secretly feel up Applejack's body. Rainbow Dash was by no means good at expressing the more 'whimpy' feelings as she had named them, cultivating an image of cool that never allowed for her to show such vulnerability. But every time she fought with Applejack, it was like everything she needed to say was expressed and the farmer always accepted what she had to say, helping her work through her problems.

All except for one.

Why... why couldn't she show her? Why couldn't she just tell her?!

Frustration reached a fever pitch, making Rainbow Dash slip up and be pinned against a tree, the rough bark scraping against her skin and her arms held behind her back. Both of them were panting and a sweaty, dirty mess, but Applejack was smiling as she plucked her hat off of the top of that rainbow colored head.

"Not bad Dash, but Ah gotcha' this time."

Receiving no reply from the other woman, Applejack started to feel a bit concern and released her grip... only to be taken off guard as Rainbow Dash suddenly launched herself at her! With enough force she lost her balance and they fell to the ground, rolling about and wrestling until the winged woman finally managed to pin Applejack beneath her.

Before she could admonish the other for 'playing dirty', Applejack's words caught in her throat as she looked up to the other. The look in those magenta eyes was something the blonde hadn't quite seen before. Frustration, anger, and... something else. They looked a little brighter too, almost like Rainbow Dash was ready to cry.

"... Rainbow Dash?"

The Arion opened and closed her mouth a couple of times, struggling before finally letting out a frustrated grunt and lying down on top of Applejack, hiding her face against the blonde's chest. Why couldn't she just say the damn words?! It seemed to get worse when she felt the farmer's strong arms around her, causing her heart to beat faster and jump up into her throat. No judgment, just comfort as the farmer waited for her to speak her mind. It was only when Rainbow Dash took a deep breath could she push herself up and look the other woman in the eye, steeling her words and forcing herself to speak.

"Applejack... I-"

A sudden crack of power a couple feet away made them both jump, with Rainbow Dash doing so quite literally as she jumped into the air and hovered, her surprise turning into anger at seeing the Princess of Magic standing there.

"Whoops, sorry! I just came by to see how you were doing Applejack, you should be healed up by now, yes?"

Turning, Rainbow Dash was about to take off when Applejack spoke up.

"Wait, Rainbow Dash! Are ya' gonna be okay?"

"... whatever, I gotta' get going."

Without another word the Arion took off into the sky, gone in a blink and leaving a confused farmer and a slightly guilty looking princess behind.

"Did... did I interrupt something?"

Watching the sky for a moment longer, Applejack sighed and pushed herself back up to her feet. As concerned as she was about whatever was bothering Rainbow Dash, she knew that the woman wouldn't be willing to talk about it right now.

Might as well get back to work...

Author's Note

*takes a sip of Dr. Pepper with sunglasses on* It's back baby.

And in this story Applejack's hat is special and sentimental. Not something that gets messed up, thrown away and replaced. HASBRO WRITERS. :ajbemused: