Of Clouds, Seeds, and Apple Trees (Book 1)

Chapters

Chapter One
Chapter Two
Chapter Three
Chapter Four
Chapter Five
Chapter Six
Chapter Seven
Chapter Eight
Chapter Nine
Chapter Ten
Chapter Eleven
Epilogue

Chapter One

CHAPTER ONE

Closing her eyes, Rainbow Dash dove off the cliff, head first, and raced toward the ground below. She felt the wind whipping through her mane, and ruffling the feathers on her folded wings. Her forelegs stretched out in front of her, as if to propel herself downward at an even faster rate. Finally, taking a deep breath, her wings erupted from her side, and caught the air, acting as a parachute, almost as a catalyst, and launched her back into the sky. She opened her eyes and looked downward. 3 more seconds, and she would have made an impact into the 'much less yielding than it looked' grassy field below. The thrill of it all coursed through her veins like a fiery liquid, better than any alcohol could ever accomplish.

Reaching a comfortable altitude, she stared out over the countryside. In the distance, she could see Canterlot, shrouded in a haze, on the now dusk covered side of the mountain. Of course, looking a little closer to where she was lay Ponyville, spread out below, peaceful and quiet, the evening sun casting shadows from the town hall spire. She banked sharply to her left, toward the sleepy village, feeling the wind change pressure underneath her, eliciting a sensation of calm from deep within her.

As she passed over the center of town, she saw various ponies milling about, going about their business to and fro, engaged in conversations with the myriad buyers and sellers of the marketplace. Looking toward one particular spot, she noticed an orange pony with blonde hair, atop which was placed a stetson hat, selling the fruits of her family's hard work.

Dash's gaze lingered on the southern beauty for a moment longer than she should have, and before she knew it she glanced forward and was flapping hard to avoid slamming into the town hall coming up hard and fast. Straining her flight muscles and shoving air underneath her wings, she managed to miss the side of the building by mere centimeters. Dash wiped her brow in relief, and pushed higher into the air, higher, until Ponyville looked like a matte painting. She did a few backflips and barrel rolls to shake off the tension, which had less to do with nearly hitting a building than it did something else.

Now, away from potentially painful and crash prone obstacles, Dash let her thoughts linger on what she felt had to be mere crush on Applejack. It is just a crush, isn't it?, she thought to herself.

She had posed that question to her conscience a hundred times, and each time she received nothing but silence in return.

She had never taken herself for anything other than who she was. Dash knew she liked mares, and she knew she liked stallions, too. She didn't see any need to separate their genders, because to her, a pony to be loved was a pony to be loved, and that's all that really mattered in the grand scheme of things. Pulling herself from her own thought processes, she banked lightly to the east, and made her way toward her palatial cloud home, landing gently upon the doorstep. Stepping inside, she made her way to her washroom and looked at herself in the mirror.

Her mane was mussed and frayed, her cyan coat dusty from the trip through town, and in her rosemary eyes she could see the conflict eating away at her, knowing how she felt about Applejack, and wondering if the honest workhorse might have the same feelings for her. After a moment of reflection, she suddenly grew tired. She sauntered into her bedroom, and tossing aside the covers, fell onto her bed and in moments was sound sleep.

***

“Thank ye kindly, an' come again!” Applejack shouted to her last customer of the day. She sighed to herself and looked at the empty baskets which once held a full day's harvest of Apple family pride and joy.

“It's been a good day”, she said quietly to herself. While she wouldn't admit it to anypony else, Applejack had been worried for the past few months that the Apple family finances were getting too big for their britches, and that she was going to have to start relying more on Big Macintosh's fancy mathematics to get them out of the pickle barrel and back onto firm soil. Whoa, there, Nelly, Applejack mentally chided herself, this was jus' one day. I don't want ta buck mah apples a'fore they're ripe. Still, if today's sales were any indication, the road ahead looked better and better.

As she loaded the last couple of baskets into the cart, she saw a shadow out of the corner of her eye. Looking around, and seeing nothing but a few market ponies milling about and putting away their stands, she glanced skyward and saw a fading rainbow trail heading in the direction of Ponyville's city limits. Hmm, where in tarnation does that silly filly think she's a headin'? Always got ta' be impressin' somepony, I guess.

And with that, Applejack hitched herself to her cart, and started making her way home. Along the way, she noticed the Cutie Mark Crusaders as they were leaving Carousel Boutique, her friend Rarity's fashion business. They appeared to be covered in layers of makeup and wearing the kind of hats made for the high society ponies in Canterlot. I never was one for fancy clothin' and frilly necklaces, or frou-frou perfumes, she thought to herself, as Rarity burst through the door, yelling epithets toward Sweetie Belle and her crusading cohorts. Seeing the normally genteel and feminine mare in such a tizzy caused Applejack to let out a chuckle.

It did not go unnoticed.

“Applejaaaaack!”, Rarity said in her singsongy whining way, “don't encourage them! It's not funny. Especially when they turn my beautiful, elegant boutique into a den of pillaging chaos!”. This last sentence was directed at the backsides of three small filly silhouettes hurriedly hoofing it over the horizon.

Applejack had the good sense to appear apologetic, “Mah apologies, Rarity. Ah just think those fillies look up to ya so much that they jus' can't help gettin' inta all kinds ah trouble.”

At that, Rarity's features lightened, and she smiled just a little. She replied thoughtfully, “You're right Applejack. I realize Sweetie Belle simply wants to be like me, and while I find that flattering in it's own right, I just wish she would try to emulate me in ways that don't destroy rare and precious materials. Still, I apologize to you as well, you were merely seeing them for what they were; sweet little foals who like to have fun. Dear Celestia, I can be such a grump sometimes.”

Applejack waved a hoof, “Don't you worry about it none, Rarity. An' don't go thinkin' ah don't 'xpect those gals to be actin' all sweet and innocent all the time. Ah know full well they can be full ah horseapples.”

At that, Rarity blushed and whispered, “Applejack! Language!”, before starting to giggle into her hoof, looking toward the direction the fillies had ran. After a moment, she cleared her throat and turned her attention back to Applejack. “So, Applejack, is there anything I can help you with today? Any bold, flattering new designs you would like to browse in my shop?”

Applejack snorted, “No offense, Rarity, but ya'll know I don't go for that frou frou kinda stuff. I mean, ya'lls designs are meant for fancy schmancy ponies, not hard workin' farm ponies.”

At that, Rarity seemed deep in thought. She perked up for a moment and suddenly said aloud, “IDEAAAAAAA!”. By which she hurriedly turned around and started heading back into her shop, saying behind her, “I'm sorry for ending our conversation so soon, Applejack, but I've just had the loveliest idea, and I want to see if the mechanics of my furtive mind will burst forth fruit into something most wondrous!”. And with that, she was gone.

Applejack looked at the dust cloud that remained from her dear friend's hasty retreat, and gave another chuckle. She continued to head homeward, pulling the cart along behind her.

***

“You know, maybe that wasn't such a good idea”, Scootaloo lamented as she sponged herself clean of the caked on makeup.

Applebloom mumbled a “yeah, no foalin'” as she looked at the glaze of hoof polish all over her forehooves.

Sweetie Belle, who had managed to clean herself of the gunk before the others, simply shrugged sadly. “I'm sorry, Crusaders, I was SURE we'd get our cutie marks for being elite pony gentlemares.”

Applebloom put an absurdly red hoof on Sweetie Belle's shoulder. “Aw, don' worry about it none, Sweetie Belle, you was jus' doin' your best. It's jus' important that we keep tryin'. An' really, we wouldna wanted to be no high falootin' fancy ponies anyway... uh, 'xcept for your sister Rarity, ah course.”

Sweetie Belle smiled and gave her best friend a hug, while Scootaloo looked on, making gagging sounds and sticking her hoof in her mouth. It had started to rain, the pitter patter of raindrops bouncing off the wood slatted roof of the Crusaders club house, filling in the silence as the fillies cleaned the last reminders of their woe begotten previous adventure.

“So what do you think we should do now?” Scootaloo sighed, “because I'm bored!” The three fillies sat quietly, their brains churning ideas, as turbulent as the winds outside were becoming.

“Hay, I've got it!” Sweetie Belle exclaimed.

“No”, both Scootaloo and Applebloom said in unison, with Applebloom following up contritely, “sorry, Sweetie Belle, it's jus' last time didn't work out sa well. Maybe one of us can come up with somethin' this time.”

The three continued in silence, pondering, until Applebloom jumped up, “Ah got it!”.

The other two crusaders waited excitedly, as Applebloom outlined her new idea on how to obtain their cutie marks. By the time she was finished, the other two fillies were filled to the brim with excitement. “So hows' it sound, ya'll?” Applebloom asked with expectation in her voice.

In response, the cutie mark crusaders brought their hooves together and loudly declared, “CUTIE MARK CRUSADER LOVE DOCTORS! YAY!”.

Chapter Two

[A/N: This will be the shortest chapter as far as I know. Updates will likely happen every 5-7 days, so I hope you enjoy this a little early. And remember: feedback! -TLTD]

CHAPTER TWO

“Spiiiiike!” Twilight called to her dragon assistant, who was busy in the kitchen washing the dishes from supper. A moment later, she heard the water stop, and Spike walked into the common area, wiping his claws on his apron.

“Yeah, Twilight?” He asked, as he watched her stand up, pick up a parchment with her magic, and float it in front of his face, so that he could see it.

“I just discovered a major crisis!”

Spike jumped at that, and panicked as he replied, “Oh no! What is it, Twilight? A Manticore? Zombies? ...a Zombie Manticore?!”

At the prospect of that scenario, his pupils shrunk to pinpricks and he began shaking.

Twilight merely looked at him askance and grumbled, “Oh, Spike. What is it with you and Zombies? Anyway, no, it's worse than that! My compendium of lists for approving our itinerary is missing! Without it, I won't have information I need on destinations that qualify for lists that I've compiled that organize our travel arrangements! This is terrible!”

For his part, Spike just huffed and raised an eyebrow. He was about to return to the kitchen when his cheeks expanded, and fire belched from his mouth, a scroll popping forth.

Twilight was surprised, but caught the scroll in mid-air with her magic. "It's a little late in the evening for a letter from the Princess. I hope it isn't anything serious!"

Opening the scroll, she began to read, and gasped. Without commenting, she continued reading, her eyes growing wider, until Spike, who had been observing the whole time, became impatient and said as much.

“Well?! What is it Twilight?” he exclaimed.

Twilight looked down at Spike, back to the scroll, and back down at Spike again. “The Princess has invited me to attend the Royal Canterlot Symposium on Practical Magic! She clopped her hooves together, “the Princess wants me to speak as an expert on behalf of Canterlot!”

Spike lowered his eyelids “Uh huh.” He said, with a deadpan expression, “so... what does that mean?”

At his pointed question, Twilight beamed, “it means I'm going to meet scientists from all over Equestria as they explore the practical uses for magical knowledge, and I get to sit next to the Princess as her faithful expert!”, at which point, Twilight squee'd and cantered upstairs to pack her bags.

Spike called up to her, “so what am I supposed to do? I don't know anything about all of that sciency stuff!”

He heard her muffled voice from her bedroom, “Well, if you'd like, you could watch the library while I'm gone.”

Hearing this, Spike breathed a sigh of relief. Normally, he liked to go with Twilight on her trips to Canterlot. After all, it was once my home, too, he reasoned, but being around all those stuffy eggheads and snooty statesponies? That isn't for me. By staying in Ponyville, that meant time to himself, more sleep, and, trips to see his beloved Rarity! At this warm and pleasant realization, Spike started floating into the air, carried by an unseen wave of love.

Twilight trotted downstairs with her saddlebags packed and already on her back. She noticed Spike's state of euphoria, and giggled. This snapped Spike out of his daze, and he blushed.

“So”, he said loudly, in an effort to divert her away from his momentary embarrassment, “how are you getting there?”.

Twilight practically pranced in circles as she replied, “Princess Celestia is sending her personal carriage to take me there! It's already on it's way!”.

***

It was around midnight at the Carousel Boutique, but anypony observing the beautiful, stylishly coiffed mare zipping about her chaotically organized inspiration room would be hard pressed to know it. Ever since her encounter with Applejack earlier in the day, Rarity had been designing furiously, determined to blend form and function, to merge two worlds; that of the coutoure gadabout, and the rustic work horse. It was her ambition to make high fashion accessible to the socially lacking. After All, she thought to herself, everypony deserves to look marvelous!

At first, she had difficulties envisioning the type of fashion in which manual labor, and climbing the social ladder, could co-exist peacefully. It had to be something engaging, something festive, yet practical, a garment that could withstand the rigors of day to day manual labor, while also allowing the wearer to utilize it in a social setting without being too "frou frou" as the delightful, and sometimes stubborn, down to earth Applejack had put it.

What properties did it need for balance? How strong should the material be? How would it be worn day to day? These questions, among others, were plaguing Rarity's fashion focused brain and yet it seemed to brook no new answers.

Rarity thought of her friends, and their occupations and hobbies. Firstly, of course, was Applejack. A hard working pony in her own right, she spent most of her waking hours working her family farm. Applebucking, hauling applecarts, mending buildings and fences, which meant carrying tools.

Rarity took notes in her small notepad, making a layout for reinforced seams and pockets. Let's see, she thought to herself, who else? Twilight Sparkle was a bookworm, an intellectual, and a researcher at heart. Aside from a labcoat and goggles, she would need little in the way of protective clothing. Ah! A protective coating that would resist corrosive materials and solvents!

Good, good, Rarity thought as she scribbled this information into her notepad, now we're getting somewhere!

She turned her thoughts to sweet, docile, Fluttershy, who spent much of her time tending to her many animals. Were she to wear such clothing, it would have to be rugged, able to withstand direct contact with a myriad of creatures great and small.

The material would have to stand up against claws, teeth, and other animal defenses.

She scribbled that down in her notepad, and thought next of Pinkie Pie, who spent most of her time baking, and being rather random. While she would be unable to totally quantify Pinkie Pie's physical capabilities in relation to the garment, she could focus on her primary duty, that being a baker of treats. Handling steaming, hot baked goods meant interacting with an oven, which meant the possibility of burning oneself, which meant the garment would have to be heat resistant, at least up to the temperature level of an oven, if not a little more for safety.

After scribbling this down, Rarity started to see the function of her new design coming together. She knew that if she could now get form to follow that function, there would be nothing stopping her from achieving her goal of merging two totally different worlds together under one delightfully stylish banner.

She bounced on her hooves for only a moment, allowing herself a free expression of giddiness as she continued scribbling in her notepad, whirls of thought pouring onto the paper. She glanced momentarily at the clock, noting the very late hour. She sighed for only a second, not letting it erode that warm feeling of purpose. Sleep could wait. This was inspiration, it was fabulosity. It was going to be amazing, and it was going to be sheer genius defined. As if it could be anything else.

***

Chapter Three

CHAPTER THREE

The light from Celestia's Sun poured through the cloud windows of Rainbow Dash's home in the sky. Dust motes danced back and forth in the beams, bumping into one another, moving busily back and forth in the microeddies and rivulets of air that created an almost orderly chaos. It could be something worth meditating upon, if the pegasus pony in question wasn't completely unaware of such esoteric trivialities, due primarily to her closed eyes and loud snoring.

Rainbow Dash had never been an early riser, and that fact had never been more obvious than watching the rays of the midday Sun concentrating on the back of her head, as it lay sunken in a soft pillow.

This moment of serenity lasted approximately 5 more seconds, and then a loud chiming rang throughout her bedroom. A gurgle was heard from the pillow, as a hoof reached out, swiping chaotically in the direction of the alarm clock that had shattered the cyan pony's refuge from the mundanity of reality. Finally, after a moment of effort, hoof met metal, and a loud crunch silenced the cry of the alarm.

Dash opened one eye, looking around her room. Letting out a sigh, she groaned, sat up in her bed, and rubbed both eyes, blinking a few times to clear out the sleep. A quick yawn, a stretch, a few flaps of her wings, and she was up. She shuffled into her bathroom, scratching her flank as she went, and clicking her tongue a few times and grimacing at the dragon breath (no offense, Spike) that she tasted. She stood in front of her sink, and looked at herself in the mirror. Half lidded rosemary eyes stared back at her. She gave herself a smirk, and winked at her reflection. Even half asleep she was still 20% cooler.

Turning away, and waving a foreleg at the mirror non-commitally, she stepped into her shower and turned on the water. As the water poured over her stiff and aching muscles, she let her mind drift toward Applejack. Dash knew she had to eventually make her feelings known, it would be wrong to hide such things from the one pony who mattered most to her. What amazed her, though, was that she had even developed these feelings in the first place. When did they actually become something more than friendship?

When did Applejack go from a way awesome rival to somepony much more special? she asked herself, waiting for an answer from deep within her mind that was still not ready to start talking.

Dash wasn't an egghead. She would never have the smarts that Twilight had, and she was okay with that. Smarts didn't make the mare. Besides, as far as Dash was concerned, egghead smarts were more likely to get you into trouble, and trouble was something Dash didn't need any help finding.

The more Dash thought about it, the more she realized that it wasn't just about smarts. Even the smartest pony could be dumb sometimes. Applejack was smart, but in her own way. She was smart about her work, and about her family. She was honest, and down to earth. That appealed to the brash pegasus, who preferred to win using whatever way she could, even if it was a little less than honest. Applejack, though, when she lost, she was always gracious and fair.

How many ponies could say that?

With that thought, Dash stepped out of the shower, and shook herself off. As she made her way down to the kitchen, she heard a knock at the door.

Gliding over to the door, she opened it to see Derpy Hooves standing there with a letter in her mouth. She began speaking, not realizing that the envelope was still in her mouth. All Dash could hear was a "Ah hif a lffr fr ghr rbrdrf frm gr mer!", then her off kilter visage straightened for a moment as she removed the envelope from her mouth and spoke again, "Sorry about that, Rainbow Dash. Uh.. oh, you have a letter from the Mayor right here! If you'll just sign for it!"

Dash waited for a quill or other writing tool to be presented, but nothing was forthcoming. "Uh, Derpy?" she asked, with confusion in her voice, "what am I signing?"

Derpy looked around and blushed, her right eye sliding in the opposite direction from the other, and coughed, "Oh, uh, sorry about that Rainbow Dash. I left the clipboard in the mailroom." She grinned sheepishly.

Dash closed one eye and studied her with the other, finally breaking into a grin and replied, "don't worry about it, Derpy. I'll tell the Mayor you delivered it."

Derpy grinned and nodded her head, "Yeah! That would be great! Thanks Rainbow Dash!". And with that she turned around and flew away, waving to Dash as she went. Rainbow, for her part, just grinned and closed the door. Derpy was a little scatterbrained, in her opinion, but she made up for it by being a hard worker, and that was something Dash could respect.

She stared at the letter for a moment, wondering what it could be about. As far as she knew, she wasn't in any trouble, but when it came to the Mayor, Dash never knew for sure. That kind of stuff was for people who liked to argue all day over silly government stuff, and sit around in chairs gabbing like it was important. That was something Dash was definitely not into. As far as she was concerned, that kind of thing was almost as boring as the history books Twilight would read for fun.

Give me a nice Daring Do book any day! Dash chuckled to herself.

Without further hesitation, she opened the letter. At the top was the seal of the office of the Mayor of Ponyville, and some stuff about heretos and therefores. Dash skimmed through much of it, but stopped at the line that read "meeting with local farmers about the prospect of a long drought, and solutions in regard to that matter."

So the Mayor wants me to sit in on some kind of farm thingy about the rain? I guess I might be able to help. I am, after all, Ponyville's Chief Weather pony, Dash thought, as she stared at the letter.

Looking at the date and time, she saw that the meeting was to be held that evening, in the Mayor's office. Dash heard the chime from her clock, striking noon. Good, she thought to herself, just enough time to grab a snack and get in some practice!

She carelessly tossed the letter over her shoulder, and made her way into the kitchen.

***

It was 4 O'Clock in the morning when Princess Celestia's carriage, carrying Twilight Sparkle, arrived in Canterlot, and landed in the palace courtyard. As she stepped out of the carriage, she saw that a royal steward was already bringing down her luggage. She watched a moment as he hurriedly sped off to the palace, bags in tow. Twilight heard a shuffle, and turning back toward the carriage, she saw that Princess Luna was standing right next to her.

Twilight jumped in surprise. "Princess! Oh, I didn't see you there!" She started to bow, but Luna stopped her by putting a hoof on her shoulder.

"Twilight Sparkle, thou has no need to bow before me. Thou is considered a dear friend", she spoke last words softly, a smile forming on her face.

Twilight blushed. "Princess, it means so much that you would call me a dear friend."

Luna's eyes sparkled, "Please, my dear Twilight Sparkle, call us Luna" she said, and with a wink, turned to walk toward the palace entrance. Twilight followed, walking alongside the Princess of the Night.

"Pri-er, Luna", Twilight began and then corrected herself, "if you insist that I call you Luna, then you must also call me Twilight. You don't need to use my full name when addressing me. Friends call each other by their first names."

Luna grinned and gave Twilight a sidelong glance. "Very well, then. Thee shall call us Luna, and we shall call thee Twilight. Does this sound fair and equitable, as what is exchanged between friends?".

Twilight nodded. "It is, and it sounds wonderful, Luna."

A moment passed as they entered the palace interior, making their way through the grand foyer. Luna turned her head slightly toward Twilight. "Our sister sleeps at this hour, and we have prepared a room for thee, so that thou may rest and prepare for the beginning of the symposium which shall begin this evening. Celestia will guide thee in how she wishes to proceed with thou as the representative for Canterlot. Art thou up to the task, Twilight?"

That last question had an almost teasing quality to it's tone. As they walked up a flight of steps, Twilight stole a quick look at Luna's face, but there was no sign of mischief, which didn't really mean anything when it came to the mysterious Princess. She was renowned throughout Canterlot for her pranks, though the blame never came back to her, and for a moment, Twilight wondered at the implications of what would happen should Luna and Pinkie Pie ever to join forces.

Twilight tossed aside the thought as she gave the Princess her answer. "I am up to the challenge, Luna. If I may say so, with all humility, I am the Princess' protege, her faithful student. I will not let her, you, or the rest of Canterlot down in these debates. Whatever the topic, I will be ready for it."

Luna smiled at this. "Very good, Twilight, our sister chose well."

A moment later, they reached the door to Twilight's suite. Luna opened the doors with a faint glow from her horn, and stepped inside, with Twilight following. "This will be thy room for the night", she said, "I believe thou will find it most suitable."

Twilight gasped as she took in her surroundings. It was much more lavish than any room she had ever stayed in at the palace. The marble floors were so polished, she could see her reflection from across the room. There were lush, vibrant purple rugs that felt like one was standing on a cloud. The bed was enormous, covering a large section of the room, and was overloaded with soft, plush, stuffed pillows. The coverlets inlaid with gold and silver thread.

She could see partway into the washroom, and caught a glimpse of a large marble tub. Looking overhead, she saw an exquisite crystal chandelier, light reflecting off of the brushed platinum inlaid filigree, and in the corner of the room, a massive desk, made of teak wood, a rarity that could only be found in the far northern provinces of Equestria, beyond where most ponies traveled. On the desk were various parchments, quills, stamps, and folders, and along the far wall, a shelf filled from floor to ceiling with what appeared to be very old books, parchments, and scrolls. All of it looking as if prepared specifically for her.

Twilight turned to the Princess. "Is this all just for me?"

Luna grinned and replied, "Yes, my dear friend, Twilight. We have prepared for thee a place of respite, relaxation, and restoration. It has been prepared by us and our dear sister, just for thee. Thou should also take note of this..." at which point Luna's horn glowed, removing a previously unnoticed cover from the entrance to the suite.

Under the now removed fabric was a placard made of what appeared to be gold plating, containing an etching. Twilight looked at the symbol carved in the plate, and saw that it was an image of her cutie mark.

"Yes, Twilight", Luna intoned softly, "this is thy permanent home in the palace. When you visit Canterlot, this is where thou shall stay if thou wishes, and thou may come and go as thou pleases. In honor of thy service, and because we know thee so well, there are similar suites fashioned like this for thy friends, the Elements of Harmony."

Twilight stared for just a moment, but then let out a giggle and threw her hooves around Luna's neck. "Oh, thank you, Princess, eh, I mean, Luna! This is such a generous gift!"

Luna accepted Twilight's embrace, and nuzzled her neck. "Twilight, thou has proven above and beyond that thou art a true friend of ours, and that thy love and dedication to thy Princesses is genuine. It is also reciprocated, and it was our wish, Celestia and I, that thee received a token of our gratitude."

Twilight simply cried, tears running down her muzzle, as she tried to wipe them away with her foreleg. Luna smiled, and stepped toward the door.

"Thou needs rest, now. Today shall be an important day, and we wish that thee has ample time to relax and prepare. Before we go, we would like to say one more thing: Thou are dear to us, Twilight. Remember that, always."

And with that, Princess Luna left the suite, closing the doors behind her, and leaving a sniffling Twilight to rest and prepare for the day's events. Confident as ever in her abilities to debate and tackle the pressing science issues of the day, Twilight trotted over to the massive desk. She had a letter to write.

***

[A/N: The action will begin soon, I promise! Feedback welcome, of course!]

Chapter Four

CHAPTER FOUR

Ponyville

Mayor Mare's Office 5:48 PM

Applejack sighed as she sat in a folding chair in the corner of the Mayor's office. To her left and right were several other farmponies who, like her, had arrived at the Mayor's insistence, and were now in the process of zoning out as the Mayor's accountant went over charts talking about fancy budgets and other mathematics.

Normally, Applejack would have been attentive and patient, after all this would affect not only her, but all of Sweet Apple Acres. Yet her mind had been drifting all day that day, and she wasn't certain as to why. She couldn't put her hoof on it, but a conversation she had earlier in the day had come back to her and gave her reason to wonder. Her memory took her on a trip back to that morning:

A hard buck against a solid trunk, and a moment later, a rain of apple sized proportions began to fall into the waiting baskets. She had lost count on just how many trees had received the business end of her back hooves, but it had been non-stop from before dawn, and Applejack had long since began sweating furiously. Celestia's morning Sun was out in full force, and making the farmpony's task all the more difficult. It's not as if she was going to complain, because to AJ, work was work, and she was glad to be a part of it. A pony wasn't anypony if they weren't willing to work hard for what they had, and a little Sun wasn't going to stop her from getting that work accomplished.

With a swiftness borne of years and experience, she had moved on to the next apple tree, and in one smooth motion, lined up her back hooves, focused her strength, and prepared to bring down the next bushel of apples, when her ears picked up what sounded like a soft whisper. Pricking her ears up, Applejack listened quietly and intently. The soft breeze made it a little difficult, but after another moment, she heard it again. The whispers were coming from the apple tree. Her apple tree.

She edged closer to the tree, taking care not to step on a twig or anything that might alert the unknown voice or voices that she was there. Either Ah've been out here in the Sun too long, or somepony's been a sneakin' into mah orchard when ah'm not lookin', she thought. The whispers began again, and Applejack eased next to the trunk, and strained her ears to their limit, to hear whatever conspiracy was taking place above her.

"...ooh, I love maple syrup."

Applejack raised her eyebrows, but otherwise stayed silent as she continued listening in, pushing herself against the trunk of the tree as to remain invisible from whomever was above her. A moment later, the whispers continued.

"...you're so cute... freckles... don't get up, Applejack."

At the mention of her name, Applejack gasped, and frowned. "All right, you varmints!", she called out, "Whoever ya are, quit yer plottin' an' get yerselves outta mah apple tree!"

After a few seconds without a response, Applejack figured the offenders were hoping she would just go away without callin' 'em out. Y'all got another thing comin', she grinned to herself, and with all of her considerable power, slammed her back hooves into the tree's massive trunk. A second later, a shower of apples fell into their waiting baskets...

...along with a startled cyan pegasus.

"Rainbow!" Applejack yelled in a mix of surprise and frustration, "what are y'all doin' up in mah tree?! Is there anypony else up there with you?"

For her part, Rainbow was now sitting on a basket of apples, dazed and gingerly rubbing the back of her head. She looked up at Applejack and gulped, trying to hide her nervousness with an uneasy smile.

"Hey, AJ! I was just, uh, looking at the clouds and, uh, watching to see if any of them tried to sneak off or something. You know, can't trust the weather... heh heh", she laughed nervously.

Applejack narrowed her eyes, "ah see, so you were nappin' in mah trees again! But that still don't explain why I heard voices. Somepony talkin' about syrup, and ah swear ah heard mah name in there somewhere. How d'ya explain that one?" she asked as she crossed her forelegs.

"Ah..uh..did you say syrup? Uh..." Rainbow sputtered as her eyes darted from side to side, "I uh... was, uh, heh heh, yeah, ya caught me, I was taking a nap. Yeah." she laughed again, "I was, uh, dreaming about waffles, and uh, you know, I like syrup on my waffles."

Applejack was quiet a moment. She knew Rainbow was lying, it didn't take her Element of Honesty to tell her that, and she knew she heard her name associated with syrup and freckles. For her part, Rainbow was standing now, rubbing the back of her neck with her foreleg, while kicking at the dirt with her other hoof , and glancing from side to side. Applejack sighed. There was no point to keeping the brash pony under the spotlight. Getting answers from her was like pulling turnips out of the ground with your teeth.

"Alright, then, Rainbow", she said after a moment, "just don't let me catch ya like that, nappin' in mah trees. Ya could get hurt if ah don't see ya there!"

Rainbow Dash sighed in relief that Applejack seemed to forget her dream ramblings, and then caught herself. "Thanks, AJ, yeah, I guess I should warn ya if I take a nap in one of your trees! Well, see ya later at the meeting!"

And with that, Rainbow grabbed her cloud pillow and blanket, and was about to take off when Applejack quipped, "Ah like mah freckles, too."

Rainbow stopped cold. Turned her head and looked at AJ for a moment, who gave her a smile and a wink, Her eyes wide, she turned back, and launched off into the sky, becoming a rainbow blur in the blink of an eye.

At the time, Applejack had chuckled to herself as she returned to her work, not even giving the matter anymore thought. Now she was sitting in the Mayor's office, and the morning's events had been rolling over and over in her head, like a loopty hoop on a windy day.

A moment later, she was stirred from her introspection by a yelp, one that was immediately followed by a loud crash, heard outside of the office in which they were gathered. The accountant droning on about statistical fiduciary whatsits stopped mid-sentence as every head, in expectation, turned toward the office door. After some muffled cursing, a cyan hoof appeared, pushing aside the door as the rest of it's owner ambled into the room, blush burning a rosy red on her furry blue cheeks.

"Hiya, uh, everypony! Just had a little technical, uh, difficulty with my landing back there, heh" Dash laughed uneasily. She looked at the fuming Mayor, "Oh, uh, I'll totally pay for that flower holder thingy, Mayor", she said as she pointed a hoof in the direction of, presumably, the now broken decor in the adjoining room.

The Mayor, arms crossed, fumed for a full ten seconds, holding Rainbow Dash under her glare, and then sighed loudly, and assumed a pleasant smile. "Oh, don't worry about it, Rainbow Dash, accidents happen. Let us just continue with the meeting", to which she added under her breath, "of which you are more than twenty minutes late."

Rainbow Dash missed the last part of the Mayor's statement as she saw where Applejack was sitting, and grabbing a chair and straddled it, sat down next to her.

"Heya AJ. Sorry about being late" she whispered. Applejack tipped her hat in Dash's direction in response.

The Mayor, in the meantime, thanked the accountant and dismissed her from the room. Turning to the assembled ponies, she said, "Everypony, I apologize if the meeting has been dry and boring up to this point, but I had to let you see where we were, fiscally speaking. While I understand that hoof to earth is how you do your work, and it is an honest work, there are budgetary concerns we have to track, in order to maximize benefits for everypony."

She cleared her throat and continued, "The reason I have called you here, specifically, is that the Chief Administrator of Cloudsdale Weather Factory herself has informed me that there will be a raincloud shortage this season. I realize many of you are in the middle of harvesting your current crop, Sweet Apple Acres, for example", the Mayor gestured toward Applejack, and then looked back toward the other ponies in the room, "but this lack of rain may last long enough to cause a disruption in next season's harvest. As we all know, every crop is important, from Apple family apples, to Carrot Top's carrots and cabbages. That is where you come in, Rainbow Dash."

For her part, Dash was completely surprised at the sudden attention. She looked at the Mayor, then at the other ponies, and then looking back to Mayor Mare, pointed a hoof at her chest, confidently, and said, "whatever it is, Mayor, you can count on Equestria's Best Young Flier to get it done."

The Mayor smiled, "I'm glad to hear you're ready to help in any way you can, Ms. Dash. I have formulated a plan, where we can ration the rain over the course of the season, thereby keeping the ground properly maintained, and the negative effect on next season's harvest should be minimal. What I'm hoping, is that you will be able to make this all come to fruition."

Dash cocked a sly grin, "I can make it rain for whatever fruit you want, Mayor."

Applejack covered her muzzle with her hoof, and stifled a laugh. The cyan pony missed her doing so.

The Mayor, giving Dash an odd look, merely smiled and replied, "Thank you, Ms. Dash. I will hold you to that!" She picked up a folder, "and with that, this meeting is adjourned. Everypony will receive a letter from our office within the next few days outlining the water rationing program", she called over the din of the other ponies shuffling chairs, and exiting out of the room, talking amongst themselves.

Applejack and Rainbow Dash walked out of the Mayor's office, and into the streets of Ponyville, talking about the water rationing plan. The Sun had dropped down to the horizon, turning the sky a golden hue infused with purples and deep blues.

"Do ya think you'll lose any of next season's crop, AJ?" Rainbow Dash asked her friend, as the wind lightly whipped around her colorful mane.

Applejack sighed. "Ah don't know, Rainbow. If the Mayor's fancy falutin' idea works, we all won't have ta worry none about it, but like mah ol' pappy used ta say, don' count yer apples afore they're bucked."

Rainbow gazed at her friend as she spoke. She was her friend, her best friend. While RD and Fluttershy had a long history, it was a quiet and respectful one, though Rainbow Dash wasn't nearly as involved in Fluttershy's day to day affairs. Applejack, though, she was different. Rainbow found her exciting and amazing, a pony to compete with, to bring out the best in her, and hearing about her friend doubt her family and farm, it made her heart well up inside.

"You know, AJ", Dash began as they rounded a corner, passing the library on the way out toward the Apple family farm, "I won't let anything happen to the farm. If I can keep... no," she corrected herself, "when I keep the farms in Ponyville all watered and stuff, I'll make sure your trees get it first. Gosh darn it, all of you have worked too hard to lose something that means so much to you!" She finished strongly, rubbing the back of her neck in the process.

Applejack stopped and turned to her friend. Rainbow Dash had always been there for her. Sure, she was ornery, and lazy sometimes, but Applejack wasn't fooled. Underneath that brash personality was a pony with a heart of gold. She was a good apple, and she was about to say so, when she noticed, with some amusement, that Dash was blushing and rubbing the back of her neck, almost as if she was afraid of saying something that would get her in trouble.

Still, at heart, Applejack appreciated hearing Dash's words, and knew that the pony meant every single bit of what she said. That was loyalty, that was Rainbow Dash. She smiled at Dash, whose blush deepened, and began to fidget nervously.

"Rainbow", Applejack began, looking at the sunset as she spoke, "that is a sweet thing to say, darlin, and I know I can count on you to do your part. I've never doubted that." She turned her head back toward Dash, "You've always been mah good friend, and..."

Before she could finish, however, Rainbow Dash leaned forward and kissed Applejack on the lips.

***

Chapter Five

CHAPTER FIVE

She didn't know why she chose right then to do it, but Rainbow Dash was never one to plan out every possibility before flying in to save the day. The moment she saw the evening Sun's colors settle upon the farmpony's golden mane, Dash's heart swelled to where she couldn't hold in how she felt anymore, and so she took the biggest risk of her life. Bigger than when she took that sleeping dragon head on; bigger than when she dived toward the earth in a desperate effort to save her friend Rarity, and the Wonderbolts, from falling to their deaths. They had put her life on the line, but what she was doing now put her heart on the line.

So when she leaned forward, and pressed her lips against that beautiful orange mare, she didn't know what to expect, so it was to her great elation when Applejack wrapped her forelegs around Rainbow's neck, and pulled in closer. Dash's heart began beating like a trip hammer, and she wrapped her forelegs around Applejack's neck, tears tracing their way down her cyan cheeks.

After a moment, they separated from each other's embrace and for a moment, they just started at one another.

"Rainbow..." Applejack began, breathlessly.

Rainbow Dash didn't give her a chance to continue before speaking herself, her words coming out weak, but plaintive.

"Applejack. Please don't be upset, I just... I had to... you see..., you're the most awesome mare in Equestria! You're strong, you're honest, you're brave, even braver than me, and I realized that I have loved you since the day I first saw you. I know you might not like me anymore, but I would have exploded if I wouldn't have said something, please don't be angry with me..."

Before she could go on, Applejack, her eyes full of tears, put a hoof to Rainbow Dash's mouth.

"Rainbow, ah never done figured you thought a' me that way. Shoot, ah never figured mahself as a mare who liked... well, other mares, but ever since that first race, the day after you moved to Ponyville, ah knew ah had found a friend. Someone ta' keep me at mah best. Now, we been friends fer so long, ah never thought it could be any other way, but..." and at this, she stopped for a moment to remove her hat from her head and hold it in front of her, almost like a shield, "if ya do feel like ya could be more than just mah friend, ah think ah would like that just dandy."

Rainbow Dash's heart leapt from her chest and into her throat. Applejack, her friend of many years, her strongest competitor, the pony that made her keep her edge, the pony she had fallen in love with and only now had the courage to do something about it; was offering her a chance for something more than friendship.

"Applejack?" Rainbow asked softly.

"Yeah, Rainbow?" she replied.

"Will you", she licked her lips before continuing, "will you be my special somepony?"

A beat. Two beats.

Rainbow Dash started to feel icy tendrils coursing through her heart, and she began to sweat profusely.

Applejack smiled, and the smile reached her eyes as she replied, "Rainbow, I cain't imagine any other pony I'd rather have as mah special somepony, than havin' you."

With that declaration, joy soared through her heart as Rainbow Dash leapt forward and embraced Applejack, and with all her strength, lifting her off the ground, twirling her around, and kissing her passionately. Applejack fiercely returned the embrace, bringing Rainbow Dash against her chest, and nuzzling her on her neck. Life was good.

***

The Royal Palace, Canterlot

That Morning

Twilight woke up with warm thoughts occupying her mind, and a warm dragon sleeping against her back. A smile tugged at the corners of her mouth as she carefully eased herself out of bed, slowly moving the sheets so as not to disturb the baby dragon. She walked softly across the immense, and luxurious, suite that had been so generously gifted to her by the Royal Sisters. She stepped into the bathroom and looked at herself in the mirror. Her mane was wild and unruly, momentarily reminding her of the Miss Smarty Pants incident some months back.

She pushed the thought away. She had learned a great deal about priorities since then. Oh, she had always prioritized effectively, but now she knew what was more important in the grand scheme of things. It was a lesson on friendship she would not soon forget.

Seeing the large, marble tub in the corner, Twilight opted instead for the small shower. There will be time for relaxation later, she thought to herself, so just a quick scrub and rinse and I can get ready for today's events.

She jumped into the shower.

A moment later there was a knock at the door. Twilight, annoyed at being interrupted, called out to Spike, knowing that it would, regrettably, disrupt the snoozing dragon's rest. "Spike!", Twilight yelled, "could you get the door, please?!".

Seconds passed, then the loud yawning of a dragon was heard from the other room, followed by a thud, and a disgruntled, "yeah, yeah, I'm coming, hold your horseshoes!"

Twilight giggled as she finished rinsing and stepped out of the shower, and began to dry herself off. She hated waking her Number One Assistant, but it would have been a bit unseemly, and quite the shame, to simply answer the door while soaking wet, with water dripping onto such a lovely carpet.

Bundling a towel around her wet mane, she sauntered into the other room.

"Hey Twilight! Look what the Princess sent! Ith gfbrght!" Spike finished as he hungrily stuffed a rather large, brilliant amethyst into his mouth. Twilight raised an eyebrow at him before turning and walking over to the aforementioned service cart. Her jaw dropped to the floor.

The cart was piled from end to end, with soft breads, fresh fruits, whole grains, and cream filled, decadent desserts. There was even a basket of beautiful, large, glittering gems, just for Spike.

Picking her jaw up from the floor, she surveyed the layout, but before she could pick out a delicious, buttered scone that was tempting her, she saw a small piece of paper next to the plate. Using her magic, she picked it up. It was a card. She unfolded it and began reading, a smile picking at the corner of her muzzle as she read:

"Dearest Twilight,

It would not behoove you to delegate and defend on an empty stomach. Please enjoy these treats as my honored guest before you leave for the debates. I shall see you when you arrive at the Canterlot Ampitheatre. May fortune favor all of your endeavors, my faithful student.

Warmest Regards,

Princess Celestia

P.S. Luna sends her best, and wishes to see you later this evening for dinner. I will inform you of the time and place when we meet."

P.P.S. I sincerely hope Spike enjoyed his gems."

Twilight could almost hear the laughter behind that last comment. Looking over toward the bed, she saw her beloved dragon snoozing once more, underneath the crumbling pieces that were once sizable gemstones.

She walked over to the bed and gave Spike a quick nuzzle, waking him. He sat up and rubbed his forehead.

"What happened?" He asked as he blinked his eyes a few times to focus.

Twilight laughed, "You overate, silly. Now let's hurry, we have to get down to the lobby so we don't miss the carriage ride over to the Canterlot Ampitheatre."

As Spike began brushing off his green, gem dust covered belly, Twilight grabbed her saddlebags filled to bursting with her various notes and scrolls. She was excited, and even a bit nervous, as both she and Spike stepped out of their suite, and hurried toward the grand staircase.

Thirty minutes later, Twilight stepped out of the carriage, and stared up at the Canterlot Ampitheatre. The ancient edifice was massive, spanning three full city blocks in diameter, with enormous archways every 50 meters, beautiful white and midnight blue flags adorning them. The building was hewn from white stone inlaid with gold and jeweled trim. Upon marbled buttresses one could view the breathtaking stained glass windows, supported by gold stanchions.

As she took this in, Twilight also noticed the massive crowd of ponies gathered about the area, a bustling sea of winged and horned equines, as well as the easily recognizable earth ponies. Some of them were scientists, from what Twilight could tell, though many appeared to be some form of upper class citizenry, if the expressions of the trailing cringing, and obsequious servants were any indication.

A moment later, Twilight felt Spike's weight on her back.

"You ready, Twilight?" he asked, and suddenly let out a thunderous, firey burp.

A large number of the assembled ponies by the carriages stopped and turned in Twilight's direction, all conversation forgotten, their mouths agape. Twilight, for her part, was redder than Big Mac, and just as silent. She managed a sheepish, blush filled grin, and quickly grabbing her saddlebacks, galloped toward the main hall of the ampitheatre.

Moments later, the cool of the hall passed over her, and she was standing inside the main auditorium. Looking at the pamphlet she was given by the steward riding with her in the carriage, she began searching for her seat. Without realizing it, and with the pamphlet directly in front of her field of vision, Twilight managed to bump into an unsuspecting pony, causing both of them to fall to the ground, and Spike to fly off of Twilight's back, and go sailing through the air toward a heavy, reinforced table.

Even in her confusion, Twilight managed to grab Spike before he could make contact, and she held him with her magic while she stood, apologizing to the other pony profusely.

"Oh, I'm so sorry, sir! I didn't mean to trot right into you! Please forgive me, I should have been paying attention to where I was going! Are you okay?", she said as she looked up in panic.

The other pony, having forest green fur, wearing a white lab coat, and sporting a light gray, frizzled mane, chuckled warmly, a deep rumbling in his voice. "It is perfectly understandable, miss. Many of us go through life without ever taking a glance to see where we are going. It is also quite excusable when the offender is rather lovely" he finished, waggling his eyebrows and winking at her.

Twilight smiled sheepishly, and blushed. She extended a hoof, "My name is Twilight Sparkle, Student of Princess Celestia, and the Resident Scientific Representative of Canterlot in the coming debates today."

Taking her foreleg and politely shaking it, the much older stallion replied in his heavy germane-ic accent, "Ah, hello, my dear Ms. Sparkle, I am Doctor Green Clover, and I shall also be representing the lovely city of Canterlot, though in a likely more diminished role. It is a pleasure to meet you!", and finishing his introduction, he quickly leaned over, and lightly kissed her hoof, a smile on his lips, and mischief in his eyes.

Twilight gasped, "Doctor Green Clover? The pre-eminent physicist, and Grand Expert Emeritus in Exo-Meteorology for Canterlot University?! I have read every single one of your papers, Doctor Clover! You... you are one of the greatest inspirations! Your work is one of the reasons why I was drawn to the field of practical magic application in the first place! It is such an honor to meet you!" she gushed as she grasped his hoof in both forelegs and shook it vigorously.

Spike rolled his eyes as he remained suspended in mid-air. It was going to be a long day.

"Well, I'm glad the two of you have finally met!" a light hearted, and golden, heavenly voice rang from behind Twilight. A moment later, Princess Celestia came into view, as Twilight smiled broadly and nuzzled the Princess' neck, dropping Spike on the ground in the process.

"Princess! It's wonderful to see you again! I missed seeing you last night", she said, in an almost apologetic tone.

"I know, my faithful student, and I apologize for being unable to meet with you. However, I am here now, and I am excited to see what awaits both you and the venerable Dr. Green Clover in our debates today. Perhaps we'll find something wonderful and innovative to explore today."

At that moment, two earth ponies standing four rows away began cursing and yelling at one another, one of them unleashing a litany of both numbers and epithets, as the second began shaking his head and shouting "no!" over and over again.

Princess Celestia smirked, and with her gentle good humor still intact, wryly observed, "then again, maybe things will be like they were last year."

***

Chapter Six

CHAPTER SIX

Rarity had just put the finishing touches on Applejack's new outfit and had placed it on her counter, when, glancing through the front window, she spotted the earth pony casually walking by the shop. Excitedly, she galloped over to the door, opened it, and called out to her.

"Applejack! How fortuitous that you've chosen this very moment to wander by my humble boutique!" she singsonged.

She opened the door further to allow Applejack and Rainbow Dash entry. She continued speaking as she walked over to the counter.

"I have finished the project that had been wondrously inspired by your words earlier, and I wish for you to see it! I think you will find it positively divine, yet amazingly practical!" she finished as she removed the garment from a small shelf by the register.

With a flourish, she presented the outfit to Applejack, who just stared at it, mouth agape, eyes wide.

"Sweet Mother o' Celestia, Rarity! Those sure are some fancy work duds! Ya didn't have ta go through all o' that trouble, just fer me!" Applejack replied, her voice tinged with awe at Rarity's hoofwork.

Rarity blushed and demured, "Oh, it was nothing, Applejack, you're a dear friend who has a lovely natural complexion, and firm physique. I only wish to flatter form while freeing function."

Rainbow Dash, for her part, was more interested in both the floor and the ceiling at that particular moment, not giving the outfit much of a glance.

"Why don't you try it on, so we can see if your measurements are still accurate?" Rarity asked.

"Well," Applejack hesitated, "ah, uh, ah need to really get back to th' farm..."

Rarity pouted, "Aw, please, Applejack. It will only take a moment, and isn't that worth it in exchange for a garment of top caliber?", she said as she stuck out her lower lip and batted her eyelashes.

Applejack relented, "Okay, ah guess it's only fair, Rarity, seein' that ya'll worked sa' hard ta' make 'em for me."

Rarity, beaming from ear to ear, floated Applejack's new outfit over to her, and began placing it on her. After a few moments, the orange farm pony was now wearing the fashionable ensemble.

"It looks lovely!" Rarity cried joyously, "Oh Applejack, you look simply marvelous! It gives you a most lively, rejouissant appeal, if I may say so, myself! What do you think, Rainbow Dash?"

Rainbow, who had been daydreaming, glanced in Applejack's direction, "Oh, yeah it's-", she halted as she actually took in Applejack's appearance. Lines and curves. All Rainbow could notice was where the cloth curved and flowed, over Applejack's strong and stout, but graceful, body. The colorful fabric weaved around her hindquarters, making her cutie mark show prominently, while still leaving her hind legs free for applebucking. The neckline curved downward softly, outlining Applejack's lovely neck, and contrasting with the mare's long, blonde locks.

A warmth started coursing through Rainbow Dash, from her belly to her head, and she had to take a moment to breathe. It was such a moment when she realized that Rarity was staring at her in what appeared to be concern.

"Rainbow Dash, are you alright, darling?" she asked, concern in her patrician voice.

Dash shook herself out of her daze, and replied in a nervous, and poorly acted noncommittal tone, "Oh, uh, yeah, I guess it's alright. It's not as cool as, say, what I would wear, but I guess it's okay for, you know, work... stuff." she finished, twirling her foreleg as if to disregard the entire prospect.

Rarity smiled, "That would be high praise coming from you, Rainbow Dash", she said with a wink and continued, "I was just telling Applejack about the unique properties of the material, and how rugged it is compared to ordinary work clothing."

With that, she removed the outfit, placed it in a garment box, and floated it over to Applejack, and placed it on her back.

"Well then," Rarity remarked matter-of-factly, "since it fits flawlessly, and has the approval of my dear friends, I count it as a great success! If all goes well, every hard working pony in Ponyville will want one!" With that, she rubbed her forehooves together and giggled.

Applejack couldn't help but chuckle at her friend's giddiness over her work.

"Thank ye kindly, Rarity. Ah'll be sure to wear it when ah'm out workin' chores on th' farm", Applejack replied.

And with that, the two ponies thanked their dear unicorn friend, and left the boutique, heading for Sweet Apple Acres, and a little alone time.

***

Canterlot Ampitheatre

4:00 PM

"I disagree that randomizing magical infusion via emitted tycho waves results in an improved form of diastolic variation" Twilight rebutted strongly, as she magically shuffled her papers, and stared back at the disheveled, middle aged stallion occupying the podium next to her, "there's no correlation between modulated mystical output when applied to tendril nodes, neither does the apex cardioform balance out in any appreciable way. Starswirl's Theory of Applied Magic states that any magical fulcrum must be balanced by an opposing magical reaction when energy and thought are applied in a positive sequence."

A smattering of applause from the assembled scientists followed her statement, as the dissenting pony across from her fumed silently. Before he could reply, Princess Celestia's voice chimed in, "Fillies and Gentlecolts, honored guests, it is dinner hour. It would behoove us to continue these discussions tomorrow morning. Be at peace, and let friendship guide you. This debate session is adjourned."

As the assembled ponies began filing out of the ampitheatre, Twilight trotted up to her assigned section, only to see a dozing Spike in her chair.

"Spike, wake up! The debates are over for today, and it's time for dinner." she cajoled as she nudged the purple dragon.

Spike woke with a start, and yawned.

"Jeez, Twilight, you could of told me this would be all wordy and boring" he said between yawns.

Twilight just gave him a stare, and furrowed her brow, "Hey, it was your idea to come. We were all set for you to stay at the library, remember?"

Spike nodded and waved her away as he hopped down to the ground to walk beside her as they made their way to Princess Celestia's position by the entrance.

"Yeah, yeah, I know, but hey, it's not my fault Pony Joe ended up being away in Coltorado for the entire week. I just couldn't say no to seeing those delicious garnet sprinkled cinnamon twists again" he replied, then added, "maybe he can deliver".

Twilight shook her head, amused at the antics of her number one assistant, and sidled up to the Princess as she began walking toward their chariot.

"You performed very well in the debate today, my faithful student", Princess Celestia beamed, "your position on anular shield magic was fascinating to say the least, and I daresay you may have converted your fair share of listeners."

Twilight blushed, "oh, it was nothing, Princess. It's easily learnable information if one is willing to search it out. Though I have to say, I am lucky in that I have a very good teacher", she said, looking sidelong at the Princess, who leaned down for a moment to nuzzle Twilight's head.

"Well, you may be pleased to know that we will have a special guest joining us in our dinner plans this evening. I don't think you will object when we arrive to greet him", Celestia stated as they boarded the Royal Coach, "and of course, Luna will be there as well. She has been anxious to see you again", she added with a slight smile.

***

"It's such a lovely evening sky, don't you think, Lyra?" Bon-Bon observed as she nuzzled the neck of her sea green fillyfriend.

Lyra, laying with her back against the bench and her hind legs hanging over the front, smiled and nodded her head.

The two had spent the day together, as they often did, basking in the warmth of Celestia's light, and listening to the breeze rustle the leaves on the trees in Ponyville Park. They were sitting on a park bench, pony watching, and enjoying one another's company.

"Pinkie Pie invited us to another party", Lyra responded a moment later.

Bon-Bon sighed and chuckled, "what kind of party is it this time?"

Lyra gave her a sidelong glance, "it's a "the Cakes are back from vacation" party. She says there will be pies, punch, cake, balloons, streamers, oh, and..."

"Cupcakes" Bon-Bon finished, and they both giggled. Pinkie Pie's obsession with cupcakes just made her all the more endearing, and it was one of the many reasons why she was one of their very best friends. Of course, Pinkie Pie could be a friend to any pony, and that made her all the more lovable.

"I'll have to make certain we RSVP her invitation, or she'll start fretting", Bonbon said softly, gazing at a flock of bluejays as they alighted upon a crimson maple tree not a dozen yards away. She was daydreaming a bit, when she thought she heard a rustle in the bushes behind them.

She turned toward Lyra, "did you hear that hon?"

Lyra pricked up her ears and was silent for a moment, seeking out whatever errant sound Bon-Bon had just heard.

After a moment, she replied, "No, I don't hear anything. It could be just the wind."

Bon-Bon nodded, "you're probably right."

Then they both heard it. A rustling in the bushes, and what sounded like a faint "oof".

Lyra raised an eyebrow, and turned toward the bushes.

"Whoever you are", Lyra spoke in a stern tone, "come on out, we know you're in there."

A moment later, three fillies emerged from the bushes, with sad looks on their faces. One of them, a white unicorn filly with a lavender and pink mane, was rubbing her foreleg and giving an orange pegasus the stink eye.

Lyra's expression softened as she spoke, "Okay, now, what's the deal? What were you fillies doing hiding in the bushes?"

"Because it's very rude!", Bon-Bon added.

The butter yellow one with the red mane spoke up, her eyes downcast, "We all are sorry 'bout spyin' on ya, but we was tryin' to get our love doctor cutie marks. I guess it isn't workin'. Y'all ain't mad, are ya? We didn't mean ta do any harm."

At this, Lyra put a hoof to her mouth to stifle the laugh that started building in her throat. She managed to cough instead. Bon-Bon answered in her place.

"What are your names, young fillies?" she said.

The butter yellow earth pony just rubbed her foreleg. The white unicorn filly spoke up instead, "We're sorry, Miss Bon-Bon, we didn't mean to cause any trouble. We're just trying to earn our cutie marks."

At that moment, the orange pegasus filly spoke up proudly, "we're the Cutie Mark Crusaders, and we've made it our mission to earn our cutie marks and know our destinies! I'm Scootaloo, that's Sweetie Belle, and the filly at the end, there, is Applebloom."

Bon-Bon smiled warmly, "well, fillies, we're not going to get you in trouble. You seem innocent enough", she said, adding a tinge of sarcasm to her words before continuing, "but I would like to ask why you decided to spy on Lyra and myself. We're already very much in love."

Sweetie Belle spoke up, "That's why we were observing the two of you, Miss Bon-Bon. We wanted to know what it looked like when ponies are in love. I mean, we've seen two ponies in love, but it was, uh, under weird circumstances that totally weren't our fault", she finished, her eyes darting back and forth.

Lyra chuckled at that, and motioned to the fillies to join them, "Then why don't we explain to you a little bit about how love can work between two ponies, or even other beings."

The CMC cheered loudly, "Yay! Cutie Mark Crusader love learners!"

They sat down in front of Lyra and Bon-Bon. Lyra looked at Bon-Bon and nodded, who turned to the three fillies and began speaking in a professorial tone.

"You see, my young fillies, when two ponies are in love, they have special feelings for each other. They want to be around each other, spend time with each other. Do you understand so far?"

Applebloom spoke up, "Shore we do! We spend all our time with each other! We all are the best a' friends!"

The other two crusaders nodded at one another.

Bon-Bon continued, "That's true. Love can be like a friendship, but it goes further than that. With love, there is this extra special feeling that you don't share with anyone else, and it can be both uplifting and amazing at the same time."

Scootaloo raised her hoof, "is it like loving a mom or a dad?"

Bon-Bon smiled, "It's kind of like that. See, there's more than one kind of love. There's familial love, where you love your friends and family, and then there's a love that goes even further beyond that. A love so close and personal, that it can only be shared between certain ponies."

The three fillies nodded their heads. At that point, Lyra took over.

"So it's like this", she began, "Bon-Bon and I give each other hugs and kisses. The kind of romantic hugs and kisses you don't give family and friends. It represents our devotion to one another, that we will always stand by each other, no matter what. Bon-Bon knows that there is nothing in Equestria I wouldn't do for her, and that no matter what, she will always be first in my life."

Bon-Bon turned to Lyra and smiled, "and Lyra knows that I feel the same way, and always will." She turned back to the fillies, "do you understand?" she asked, as she took Lyra's hoof and kissed it.

The three fillies giggled before Scootaloo raised her hoof again, "So are you always happy?"

Lyra raised an eyebrow and looked to Bon-Bon, who chuckled and looked back at the fillies.

"No", she said, "things aren't always happy. No matter how much we love each other, we're still different ponies and have different likes and personalities. For example, Lyra likes Michael Colton albums, while I prefer James Neighlor. It may seem like something so small, but little arguments are bound to happen. The truth is, though, that at the end of the day, we love each other and rise above those petty arguments, and reaffirm our love for another."

And with that, Bon-Bon leaned over and kissed Lyra on the cheek.

Applebloom and Sweetie Belle d'awwed, while Scootaloo stuck a hoof in her muzzle, as if gagging on the saccharine sweetness she was witnessing.

Lyra looked to the young fillies once more, "so, do you understand now, just what love means between two ponies?"

The Crusaders nodded their agreements.

"Well then", Bon-Bon smiled, "I think it's safe for you to go off and continue earning your love doctor cutie marks", she paused for a moment before adding, "but let's leave the voyeur cutie marks for another day." And with that, she winked at them playfully.

The Cutie Mark Crusaders all grinned from ear to ear, and thanked Lyra and Bon-Bon as they ran off in the ever continuing search for their cutie marks.

"They're sweet", Bon-Bon noted as she watched them recede into the distance.

Lyra nodded and replied, "yeah, they're good fillies", she said, before nuzzling into Bon-Bon's neck as Bon-Bon leaned against her.

They both sighed as they sat there, watching the Sun start to dip below the horizon. For a moment, all was quiet, and then Bon-Bon, opening one eye and looking up at Lyra staring off into the distance, quipped, "I think we should have foals some day."

Lyra's eyes went wide.

Bon-Bon laughed and kissed her sweetheart tenderly, melting the sudden tension that had been the result of her off hand announcement.

As the CMC ran toward their clubhouse, they heard giggles echoing from behind them. They looked at each other and laughed as they ran onward, emboldened by what they had learned from the adoring couple.

***

Chapter Seven

CHAPTER SEVEN

Rainbow Dash was on cloud nine. Here she was, traveling along the dirt road that lead up to Sweet Apple Acres with the one mare that she had so desired in her entire young life, a mare who shared those same feelings toward her. It seemed almost impossible to believe. They had so much in common, sure, but at the same time, they were different in so many ways. Still, she had learned to never look a gift horse in the mouth, and to live each day to the fullest.

She hovered along, keeping pace with Applejack's steady gait, occasionally gazing at the orange earth pony as she would, every so often, kick a pebble out of her way, just to watch where it would land as it scuffed the dirt and sailed into the patches of yellowish green grass along the side of the path.

"Applejack", she spoke after a moment, her raspy, coltish voice filled with concern, "what should we tell the others? I mean, not just our friends, but your family. I mean, not to be offensive, or anything, but isn't your family kinda, you know, um, old fashioned?"

Applejack chuckled as she continued her gaze forward, "Rainbow, ah know they're not fancy like some other ponies, but mah Granny Smith is one of them there mares that believes a good pony is a good pony, an' what they like ain't got nothing ta do with that."

"Well, what about Big Mac? Is he gonna get upset 'cause I like his sister?"

Applejack stopped in her tracks and looked directly at Dash, her intense emerald eyes staring right into Dash's rosemary ones. Rainbow, for her part, landed softly, as Applejack took and held her hooves in her own.

"Rainbow, ah know it may seem like it, but Big Mac is mah brother, not mah owner. I love him with all mah heart, but if'n he cain't accept that I love a mare, and that mare is you, then he's just gonna have'ta get used ta it. I think, though, that he'll be jus' fine with it. Big Mac is just a little protective, is all. He ain't some closed minded backwater rube."

Rainbow Dash smiled, and gave Applejack a kiss on her muzzle, and blushed as Applejack ran her hooves through Dash's mane. Dash brought AJ closer to her, both closing their eyes as their lips met. Pressing firmly against Applejack, Rainbow Dash's tongue began probing gently, and Applejack sensing the eagerness in her friend's desire, opened her mouth and let her in. Their tongues met and caressed one another's, sending a sharp, heated thrill through both mares, their heartbeats increasing faster, together as one.

"FWOOMP"

Dash's eyes shot open, suddenly aware of her rebellious wings, as Applejack started giggling, their mouths still pressed together. Unable to resist, Rainbow Dash started giggling as well, and they both broke free of one another, unable and unwilling to suppress the joy and laughter that had begun to bond them together in their newfound love.

All of a sudden, Applejack perked up.

"Ya wanna come on up and stay for supper?"

Rainbow Dash grinned, "Sure! It beats eatin' whatever's in my fridge any day!"

Applejack laughed, and they continued onward, the silhouette of Sweet Apple Acres braced against the horizon of the evening sky, hoof in hoof, their steps lighter than ever. Applejack even felt that, if given the possibility, that she herself could almost fly.

***

"Twilight, it is wonderful to see thee again", Luna's voice greeted Twilight as she stepped out of the royal carriage.

Twilight looked up to see the Princess of the Night with a glowing smile on her beautiful face. A moment later, she mentally caught herself.

Beautiful? Where did that come from? the lavender mare wondered to herself. "Pri-uh, Luna, it is, um, wonderful to see you as well! It, uh, certainly has been a day!", she said aloud, with a cheerful smile on her face, sharing space with a sudden blush.

Unseen by either pony, Celestia's eyebrows shot up, and a small smile formed at the corners of her muzzle, though she remained quiet, watching the two interact with one another as the three of them, and the small phalanx of guards, walked toward the palace entrance.

"I take it the debates went well?", the midnight colored pony continued.

"Indeed they did, Luna. I managed to make several key advances in advocating magical theory."

Celestia added from beside Twilight, "You should have seen her, Lulu. She weaved so many logical theories around one delegate, that in his frustrated inability to answer her directly, he huffed off the dias, tripping over the podium in the process. His ego wasn't the only thing bruised." She winked at Twilight at that last remark.

Twilight, for her part, merely blushed and waved her forehoof, "Princess, you're being much too generous. I'm just trying to defend Canterlot's position, that's all".

Celestia gave her a sidelong glance, then looked over to Luna, "Will you listen to that? I heap well earned praise on her, and she shrugs it off." The two sisters laughter echoed through the hall, as Twilight's blush deepened.

A moment later, they arrived in the dining hall, as the Royal Announcer made their presence known.

"Presenting her Royal Highnesses, Princess Celestia, and Princess Luna, as well as Esteemed Guest and Element of Magic, Miss Twilight Sparkle."

Twilight raised an eyebrow in surprise, as she noted there was no one else in the hall. She looked to Princess Celestia.

"Princess, where is everypony?"

"Oh, Twilight, I forgot to tell you, it's just you, Lulu, myself, and Doctor Green Clover this evening. I hope that is okay with you."

Twilight smiled, "Oh, Princess, that's fine. I wouldn't expect you to go to any great trouble for me. I am excited to have a longer conversation with Doctor Green Clover, however, so thank you for inviting him."

"It was certainly no trouble, Twilight. We have much to discuss", the Princess replied, giving Twilight her warmest smile as they took their seats at the table.

"In fact", she continued, "he should be along any moment."

***

Applejack stepped into the Apple family home, holding the screen door for Rainbow Dash, who quipped, "so I guess you get to be the gentlemare in this relationship", as she began to walk through the doorway, sticking out her tongue at her new marefriend.

Applejack smirked, and, without warning, let the screen door slam shut on Dash's haunches.

Dash yelped in surprise, and gave Applejack a shocked grimace before breaking into laughter. A moment later, Applejack joined her, knowing that her eventual payback would be interesting. It was in her blood as a prankster.

A second later, they heard Granny Smith's voice coming from the kitchen.

"Who's y'all makin' that racket in the livin' room?"

Applejack called back, "It's me, Granny, and mah friend Rainbow Dash. You remember her. Y'all don't mind if she stays for supper, do ya?"

"Don't be silly, Applejack, ah course she can stay! We got plenty fer everypony!" she heard in reply, "why back in mah day, we had ta feed a dozen farmponies and their fillies, too, and ah had to be the one to get it all them vittles ready for eatin'! Hard work, it was!"

Applejack looked at Dash and winked, motioning her to follow AJ up to her room. They both quietly ascended the old, wooden steps, letting Granny Smith continue her rambling about how things were in the good ol' days.

Leading Dash through the hallway, Applejack spied Big Mac's bedroom door. She could see light coming through under the bottom of the frame, which meant her brother was inside, probably writing in his journal that he pretended didn't exist. Cautiously, Applejack tiphoofed over to her bedroom, opened the door, and ushered Rainbow Dash inside quickly, closing it softly in the process.

"What was that all about?" Rainbow Dash whispered, caught up in Applejack's covert efforts.

"Ah don't want Big Mac to see us yet. Ah want to tell him in mah own time, jus' in case he ain't as acceptin' as I'm hopin'" Applejack whispered back.

"Wait. Big Mac sees us all the time. He knows we're friends, and that we hang out together. Why would he suspect anything?" Dash continued quietly.

"He's never seen us hang out in mah room, at night, with the door closed, now has he?" Applejack countered softly, raising an eyebrow.

Rainbow Dash gave that a quick thought and then blushed at the implication as Applejack took a moment to toss her hat onto the bedpost.

"Ah also wanted ta get a chance to talk to ya alone, if'n ya don't mind, Dash", Applejack whispered softly into Dash's ear. The close contact combined with Applejack's warm breath on her ear and neck was enough to make Dash's wings fly out again.

FWOOMP!

"Aw, horseapples!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed, and then slapped her hoof to her muzzle, eyes wide in panic. Both of them froze. After a few moments of silence, Applejack narrowed her eyes and put a hoof to her muzzle, indicating that Rainbow should be quiet. Rainbow nodded.

Applejack made her way to the door, opening it quietly. A sudden creak caused them both to jump. Applejack gave the door a hateful look before continuing into the hallway. Standing in front of Big Mac's door, she leaned her head to the side, her ear pressed against the wood grain.

From inside the room, she heard sounds of snoring.

Oh thank Celestia, he's asleep, Applejack thought fervently.

She tiphoofed back over to her room, where Rainbow Dash was peering outside the doorjamb. Motioning her to go inside, Applejack quickly stepped in and shut the door behind her.

"We should be able to talk normal", Applejack spoke after a moment, "Big Mac's asleep. He's sawin' enough logs to build a new barn."

Rainbow Dash sighed in relief.

Applejack walked over to her bed and sat down on the edge. She patted her hoof on the quilted top and motioned Rainbow Dash to sit next to her. Dash gladly complied.

***

"I apologize for my tardiness!" called out a green coated stallion with a white mane, busy hurrying into the dining hall.

Celestia gave Twilight a knowing grin, having heard similar words from one highly strung out filly who had once traveled the labrynthine palace halls day and night.

"Dr. Green Clover", she said in her melodious voice, "I am pleased that you were able to make it, and no apologies are necessary. We're all allowed to be a little tardy every once in a while", Celestia stated in mock seriousness as she winked at Twilight, who just grinned and blushed.

"Thank you, your Majesty" Green Clover stated, bowing in the process, as he took a seat, "it seems I can't quite move as fast as I used to. What with having to make room for all of these young, gifted, up and coming academic celebrities" he finished, glancing at Twilight, with a twinkle in his eye.

As they each exchanged light pleasantries, the food was brought in and served, and for a short time thereafter, simple, polite conversation was on the menu as the ponies enjoyed their respective meals, but that eventually lapsed into silent concentration on each pony's plate. After they had finished, and more drinks were poured, Doctor Green Clover broke the silence first.

"Miss Sparkle, I would like to posit you a question, if I may."

Twilight smiled, "Certainly, Doctor, and I insist that you call me Twilight, if you please."

The old pony smiled, "Ah, well then, Twilight, let me ask you this: What do you believe is the maximum range of a meteorological spell that is cast primarily to induce precipitation in drought regions of the country?"

Twilight put her hoof to her chin and scratched for a moment, her brow furrowing as she concentrated on an answer. After a moment, she smirked and replied, "That's easy, Doctor. Depending upon the channeling power and skill of the unicorn creating the spell, anywhere from 5 to 25 meters in any direction."

Doctor Green Clover smiled and cleared his throat. "What if I told you that you were wrong, Twilight? What if I told you that you could extend that same influence more than 300 square kilometers in every direction?"

Twilight scoffed, "I'm sorry, Doctor Green Clover, I mean no offense, but that's simply not possible. A unicorn's magical ability does not extend for more than half a kilometer in any direction, and even then, that telekinetic ability is hampered by local interference, which would include everything from trees and clouds to other ponies. That interference would scatter the field created by the unicorn, causing heavy imbalance the further out the field extended. Besides, it is extraordinarily rare for any unicorn to project a spell more than a few hundred meters, and at the very edge, the magic effect would be almost nil. Even Starswirl the Bearded only managed to extend his abilities 100 meters beyond the range of any other pony before him, and he is still considered by many, myself included, to be the greatest unicorn of our age."

Doctor Green Clover was silent, and for a moment Twilight thought she had sorely offended him. Then, without warning, he tilted back his head in laughter. Twilight scowled as he continued his laughter, shaking the table as he leaned forward.

"Oh, the absolute certainty of the young intellectual! My dear Twilight Sparkle, I do not mean to laugh at you or your error, it is simply that I merely find it humorous that a brilliant pony such as yourself has confined herself to such a limited scope."

He dabbed at his lips with his napkin, and continued, "I can show you that your presumption is incorrect, and that you and you alone, Miss Sparkle, can help end this drought." He stared at Twilight for a moment, and then stood.

"Your Highnesses, may I be excused? I would like to retire to my room for the evening. I promise that I shall explain everything in the morning, if you will allow me to do so."

Celestia, for her part, glanced at Luna, who nodded almost imperceptibly, and in that same moment returned her gaze to the old scientist.

"Very well, Doctor Green Clover. I must admit, you have my interest piqued, and no doubt that of my sister, as well as my faithful student. We shall meet in my study tomorrow morning at Sunrise. Does that suit you well enough?"

The kindly, eccentric old man grinned, "Yes, your Highnesses, that would be most perfect." He glanced at the two Sisters, and then at Twilight for a moment before bowing, and leaving the dining hall.

"He was most fascinating", Luna chimed in after he had left.

Celestia nodded, "I agree, Lulu. I must say I didn't expect that kind of reaction out of him. I hope he has his wits about him, he is, after all, a bit odd, and believe me, after thousands of years dealing with the scientific community, I know odd and eccentric!" she finished, a light tone in her voice belying her amusement.

The three seated ponies laughed at her comment.

"Well, I suppose I should head to my study to finish some paperwork before going to bed", she said once the laughter had diminished. "Lulu, Twilight, if you will excuse me", she added as she stood, and flexed her wings for a moment.

Twilight and Luna stood as Celestia made her way out of the dining hall. "Goodnight, Princess!" Twilight called after her. Celestia craned her neck to the side long enough to wink at Twilight before leaving the room.

I wonder what that was about? Twilight thought to herself. After a second, she attributed it to Celestia's joking nature and let it pass unbidden from her memory. She turned back toward Luna to wish her goodnight, when she suddenly realized Luna was staring at her. Luna, for her part, realized she had been caught, started blushing, and looked away for a moment.

Twilight shook off the action, thinking the Princess was merely daydreaming. She smiled at Luna.

"It was a nice dinner, Luna. It is always a pleasure to see you. Perhaps we-"

She was interrupted by the Moon Princess.

"Twilight, may I have a word with you for a moment, in private?"

Twilight's heart started beating a little faster. Was she in trouble? Did she break some form of etiquette? What could she have done to require a private talk with the Princess of the Night? Her breathing started to increase rapidly. Luna, noticing this, hurriedly spoke.

"Twilight, thee are not being punished for any transgression. I wish merely to speak with you", she said.

Twilight's heartbeat slowed down, and her breathing returned to normal. After a moment to recover, she replied, "Certainly, Princess. We can discuss whatever you wish."

Luna merely smiled that enigmatic smile, and headed for the large double doors that lead away from the dining hall. Twilight, her mind filled with apprehension, followed behind her.

***

Chapter Eight

CHAPTER EIGHT

Applebloom let herself into the Apple family home, feeling exhausted. The Crusaders had spent all day trying to become love doctors, all to no avail. The sweet scent of apple pie greeted her warmly. Without looking in that direction, Applebloom called into the kitchen, "I'm home, Granny Smith!".

"Eh, go ahead and wash up fer supper, Applebloom! That there's a good pony!"

Applebloom smiled and made her way up the steps, turning toward the bathroom. As she walked past Applejack's room, she saw the light on underneath the door, and heard voices coming from inside. Being a filly with a reputation for her curiosity, there was no way she was going to just walk past her big sister's room without finding out what was going on.

She approached the door quietly, holding her breath, and leaned against the door. After a moment, she could make out two distinct voices. One of them was Applejack's, but the other one was taking a moment for her to recognize.

Who could it be? Applejack doesn't let other ponies in her room, not even me or Big Macintosh!, the little filly thought to herself.

Cupping her ear against the door as firmly as she could without accidentally pushing it open, the second voice continued. Then their voices started to rise, almost as if they were arguing. Applebloom pressed harder, hoping to make out words. Finally, the second voice became loud enough for her to distinguish it.

Rainbow Dash! Applebloom realized. But why is Rainbow Dash in Applejack's room? And what are they arguin' about?

Suddenly, as soon as it had started, the loud voices were gone, and in their place, nothing but silence.

Applebloom pressed her full body against the door, in a vain effort to hear more. As she repositioned herself, her hoof brushed the doorknob, and it was just enough.

Applebloom fell forward, pushing the door open and landing in the doorway. She looked up, and her eyes went wide as she took in what she saw. Applejack was on top of Rainbow Dash, and she was kissing her right on the lips!

Applejack and Rainbow Dash, having heard the noise, turned toward the doorway and saw a surprised filly laying right there in front of them, just staring.

Applejack jumped off of Rainbow Dash, who also sat up and started smoothing her wild mane.

"Applebloom! What in tarnation are you a doin'? Don' you know it's bad manners ta bust inta somepony's room!?" Applejack reprimanded, trying for all the world to look like she hadn't been doing exactly what she had been doing.

Applebloom, still at a loss for words, tried to move her lips to explain it away as some kind of accident, but her mind's eye was still showing her the snapshot of what she had just seen with her own two eyes.

Finally, she gained the ability to speak.

"Oh, uh, hey Applejack, ahm sorry, I uh, tripped and fell and grabbed your door handle by mistake, and uh, I didn't see nothin' like you kissin' Rainbow Dash smack on the mouth!" she stammered, speaking quickly and trying to cover her red cheeks.

Rainbow Dash, to her credit, merely sat on the bed, looking at the young filly. She had to admit, it was embarrassing, but ponies had seen her doing worse.

Applejack, however, was pacing the floor.

"Applebloom, what ya saw-", she began to explain, stopping to stare at her younger sister, "uh, what ya saw was -", finally, she exhaled, "just what is it ya saw, Applebloom?"

Applebloom coughed, "Um, I saw you and Rainbow huggin' each other real close and kissin' like you was more than just real good friends."

Applejack's face turned pale. "Uh, no! Wait, Ahm not... Ah mean, we're not... ah mean...no, ya see..." at which point she just sighed and sat down on the bed, patting Rainbow Dash on her foreleg.

"Look, Applebloom", she began, looking at the young filly, "ya see, ah like Rainbow Dash. A lot. Ah've liked her for a long time, and it was only today that we'all figured it out that we liked each other the same. She's mah... she's mah marefriend." Applejack finished, lowering her eyes toward the floor, her voice echoing a sound of defeat, as if she had confessed to some horrible crime.

Applebloom thought on it a moment, before replying. "Oh! You two are friends like Lyra and Bon-Bon are friends! That's great!" she finished with a smile and a small hop into the air.

Both Applejack and Rainbow Dash looked up at the same time, and gazed at the perceptive young filly. Rainbow Dash spoke first. "You mean, you're not mad at me or AJ for... liking each other?"

Applebloom just shook her head. "No way, silly fillies! Ah love mah big sister, and ah have always thought you were the coolest pony, Rainbow. Why would I be mad to see two of mah favorite ponies find each other?!"

Applejack leaned down and embraced her sister in a giant hug, and kissed her on her pink bow. "Applebloom, Ah've always said you were one smart filly."

A few moments later, Granny Smith's voice could be heard from the kitchen. "Supper's a ready! Ever'pony come and git it!"

Applejack stood, "Hey y'all, let's go catch some supper. An' we better wake Big Macintosh afore he thinks we forgot him and decides ta complain all evenin'."

The three ponies laughed as they left the room.

***

Butterflies were dancing about Twilight's stomach as she stepped into Luna's bed chambers. She had ran through the entire list of offenses she could have made, including ones unwittingly committed, and she was still uncertain as to what was going on.

As Luna lit the lamps with her magic, Twilight couldn't help but notice the subtle white glow settle on Luna's form. She had never really paid much attention to such things before, but lately, any time she was in the presence of the Moon Princess, her mind tended to drift just a bit.

Luna turned toward Twilight. "Twilight, please, take a seat. Be comfortable. You are most welcome here, I want you to know this."

Twilight saw a divan, and gingerly sat down, not wanting to appear afraid or uncomfortable, because she truly wasn't. She was merely curious, and with the Princess, one never knew what could happen next. Twilight liked that about her. For all that she loved her mentor, Princess Celestia, Twilight had come to know her so well over the many years she had known her, and that was a comfort, a familiarity she wouldn't have traded with the world, but at the same time, it gave a sense of predictability. There was nothing new to discover, at least in that relationship as far as she knew.

No, Princess Luna was different. She was more mysterious, which enticed Twilight, a lover of the unknown and the undiscovered. Luna represented the night, the unseen, the enigmatic. And like Twilight, Luna loved the stars. She loved science, and discovery. All of these things appealed to Twilight.

It also doesn't hurt that she's easy on the eyes, Twilight's subconscious tossed out, unbidden.

"Luna", she began, continuing to use the Princess' first name at her repeated insistence, "If there is something weighing on your mind, or if I have done something wrong, you know you can tell me anything. As a friend, you have my complete trust, and if you wish to tell me something in private, just know that I won't tell another soul."

Luna smiled that beautiful, enigmatic smile. That smile that said a thousand words without having to say anything at all. Her sparkling eyes shone brilliantly, and Twilight had to resist the urge to stare at them as she would the stars.

"Twilight", Luna began, "I have something I need to confess to you. Something that has been weighing on my mind for some time, ever since you saved me from the dread that was Nightmare Moon."

At the mention of the evil mare's name, Luna shuddered and continued, apologetically. "I'm sorry, Twilight, it's just that memory has so many painful connections to it, it is difficult to rid myself of it's horrors."

Twilight moved over and patted the divan.

Princess Luna sighed, walked over, her head lowered, and sat on the edge.

Twilight spoke gently, "Princess, whatever it is you need to tell me, know that I will not judge you. You mean a lot to me. After all, you're a fair ruler, a kind and generous pony, not to mention a great friend. Whatever you have to say, I will listen, and I won't judge you for it."

Luna turned to face Twilight, a tear running down her midnight blue muzzle. "Do you mean that, Twilight?" she asked. "Do you really consider me that much of a friend?"

Twilight nodded. "Princess, you are such a unique pony, that I find myself, to be honest, envious that I can't see you more often. I enjoy exchanging correspondence with you, but it's not the same as, say, watching a meteor shower with you. Yes, I think of you as a great friend. I realize it may be hard to accept, but Nightmare Moon was not really you, not at heart. At heart, you're a kind and gentle pony, a noble pony who cares for her citizens, who puts everypony before herself."

Wow! Where did that come from?!, Twilight wondered. You'd almost think I...oh! she realized, as the thought hit her like an applecart rolling downhill at full speed.

She looked up to the Princess, who was quietly staring at her, tears in her eyes.

"Twilight", she began, licking her lips as she inhaled deeply, and sighed, "I think I..."

"Love you", Twilight finished at the exact same moment.

They both stared at one another for a moment, taking in what had just been said between them.

Luna managed to speak first. "You... love me? Twilight? You love me?! How can you love me?"

Twilight stammered for a moment, unable to process the Princess' words before replying, "How can I love you? How can you love me?! Forgive me Princess, but... you're a Princess! You're beautiful, immortal, you have millenia of knowledge that I could never hope to match! You raise the Moon! You! You! You!...you're perfect! What could a pony like myself offer you?! You could have anyp-"

Twilight's litany was cut off as Luna leaned in and kissed her.

They both drew away quickly, blushing. Twilight began drawing circles in the divan's fabric with her forehoof, while Luna began looking around as if suddenly interested in her own room.

After a few minutes of silence, Twilight spoke softly, "Luna, do you think it's possible for us to actually love each other? I mean, the more I am with you, the happier I feel and all feels so right, but is it... wrong... for two mares to love one another?"

Luna was silent for a moment as she mulled over the question.

She looked at Twilight and smiled, "No, my dear, precious Twilight. When my sister and I became a part of this world, we understood that for it to thrive, for it to grow and flourish, it needed love, and that love was imbued in all things, that all ponies could be a part of it, that their hearts could find solace and warmth in the heart of another. There is no wrong in such love, because love itself is never wrong. When I had succumbed to the hatred and jealousy that was Nightmare Moon, I had forsaken that love to gain what I thought I wanted, when in truth, that hatred was a poor substitute for the love I desired."

Twilight listened as Luna poured her heart and soul out in front of Twilight. As the Princess began to cry at the memory of the intense hatred she had felt as Nightmare Moon, Twilight, ever so gently, began running her hoof through the Princess' mane, bringing it down to her neck, and drawing her in, kissed the tears on her cheeks.

Luna brought Twilight into her embrace, kissing her passionately on the lips, running her hooves down Twilight's back. Twilight brought her hooves around and embraced the Princess, gently stroking her back, and they kissed, releasing into each other's soul the previously unknown desires that had pulled at their heartstrings since they had first encountered one another for the very first time.

It was love. True love. A love that couldn't be measured by gifts or by words, or any such mundanity that existed anywhere in the world. It was a fundamental magic. A kind of magic that made a unicorn awaken the elements, a pegasus to fly, an earth pony to commune with the land. It was the love that made the world turn, and the Sun and Moon rise and set each day, and it was there, between two ponies who needed one another before they ever knew they had existed, who may have never met, and who would have never brought to bear what they need most. Yet love found a way.

***

Celestia turned away from the door of her sister's room. Walking back to her own chambers, she let a smile show on her muzzle, her heart giddy and her hoofsteps light. Ever since her sister had returned to her, Celestia had worried for the state of her heart. Luna had been transitioning to this new way of life, and it had been wearing on her. Still, Celestia had paid close attention to how she had interacted with her faithful student, and in turn, had watched as Twilight responded, and knew that a spark of something greater than friendship lay dormant in their hearts, and while Celestia wasn't really one to meddle, she felt that if she would have ignored the opportunity, a great injustice would have been committed.

Returning to her chambers, she removed her shoes, laying down on her bed, her head resting on the silk pillows, she drifted off to sleep, with the hope that what had begun that night would blossom into something truly wonderful for her sister and her beloved pupil.

***

"Hey AJ, could you pass the carrots?" Rainbow Dash called, as her arm brushed the orange pony's leg. She saw a shudder visibly pass through Applejack, and giggled quietly to herself. This is going to be so awesome! she thought to herself, as Applejack handed her the bowl of carrots.

Meanwhile, Applebloom watched in silent amusement. She could tell that Rainbow Dash cared a lot about her sister, and she would have had it no other way. While she was eager to ask Applejack and Rainbow Dash more questions, she had promised them, before coming downstairs for supper, that she would stay quiet about the whole thing until the two of them had told the family and their friends.

Of course, Applebloom thought to herself as she continued to watch the two touch hooves under the table, that doesn't mean I can't tell the Crusaders. This will really help us in getting our Love Doctor cutie marks!

With that hope firmly in mind, she dug into her apple slices with renewed gusto.

***

Chapter Nine

CHAPTER NINE

Canterlot Palace

The Next Morning

"I'm glad you could all join me this morning", Doctor Green Clover announced as he entered Princess Celestia's study, wearing his saddlebags, filled to the brim with scrolls and charts. Walking over to the Princess' desk, he spread out what appeared to be a dozen scrolls, each one laden with scribbles and hoofscratch. "I apologize for the mess, and I hope you do not mind if I use your desk, your Majesty", he added hurriedly.

Princess Celestia let her laconic smile and raised eyebrow answer for her. She looked at Twilight, who appeared quite interested in the good Doctor's ministrations in regard to his paperwork.

"Is Spike still sleeping?" She asked her pupil as they waited for Doctor Green Clover to prepare himself.

Twilight smiled and looked up, "Oh, no, Princess. He went back to Ponyville this morning, saying something about donuts and lowered expectations." she finished, giggling.

Amused at her student's mood, Celestia also noted, upon close examination, that her pupil's mane wasn't nearly as neat as the normally OCD pony would have it and, she wasn't really certain, but she could almost swear she heard her student humming lightly.

Celestia looked up and caught Luna's eye. Luna, for her part, merely blushed and looked the other way, as if trying to cover for some deed she wished to keep secret from her big sister. After a moment, however, Luna looked at her and smiled, imperceptibly nodding her head. Celestia's heart swelled and a grin broke out on her lovely alabaster face.

Doctor Green Clover turned to face them. "Ah, good, now that I have your attention, and things are in order, I can begin. This, my esteemed and honored participants, is how we make it rain."

***

Applejack awoke to a light tapping on her window. She rubbed her eyes for a moment, and turned in her bed, looking toward the source of the disturbance. A smile appeared on her face when she found Rainbow Dash hovering there. Applejack went speechless for a moment, as she saw, perhaps for the first time, Rainbow Dash's true beauty. The cyan mare's rainbow mane was aglow by the Sun, which had risen behind her, casting a multicolored shimmer of light into her room.

Applejack sat up, leaned over her bed, and opened her window. No sooner had she done so, Rainbow Dash bolted into the room, landing on top of Applejack, pushing her back against the mattress.

"Mah goodness, Rainbow!" Applejack yelped in surprise, "warn a filly when yore about ta come about chargin'". She finished with a laugh, unable to stay angry at her new love for more than a heartbeat. Something had changed in her. She could feel it. Ever since their confessions yesterday evening, Applejack's heart had opened to Rainbow Dash so quickly and so readily. Things were moving so fast, but Applejack loved it.

Rainbow, in her own heart, felt much the same way. Ever since she poured her heart out to the orange earth pony, she had felt a weight lift from her heart. That it was okay to love another pony, to let another pony get near her and mean something more to her. The only other pony that had been close was Fluttershy, and that was because of their long friendship going all the way back to summer flight camp when they were fillies.

Applejack, though, she was amazing. She was a competitor, a lover, an honest partner, and Rainbow Dash felt like she didn't have to be brave around her. She told her as much.

"Applejack, do you know why I love you?" she began, her coltish voice cracking slightly on the word love. "I love you because you're awesome. You're so cool, and you work so hard, you're really honest and I know that when I'm with you, I can be myself. I don't have to pretend to be something I'm not." Her voice broke on the last word, and she started crying.

Applejack pulled her in close, embracing her fiercely, then pulled back, staring in Dash's beautiful eyes. She really has changed, Applejack thought in wonder.

"Rainbow", she began softly, "I love ya because ya are an amazin' mare. Ah've never had better competition from any other pony. Ya never give up, ya fight hard all the way to the very end. Ya cain't tell me that ya ain't the most loyal pony in all of Equestria, cause it would be a lie, and ah wouldn't lie to ya, now would ah?" she finished firmly, squeezing Rainbow's shoulders for emphasis.

Dash sniffled a little and smiled, "See? You don't judge me! You just love me!"

They both embraced one another, and lay there on Applejack's bed, as she stroked Dash's mane with her forehoof.

"Ya do know, though" she said coyly, "that this don't mean ah'm givin' ya any easy chances when we race in the runnin' o' the leaves again, this year."

She heard a chuckle emanate from her chest, followed by a muffled "oh, you're on, Applesnack."

Light laughter filled the room just as brightly as the morning Sun.

***

"By using these theories, I believe it is possible for you to accomplish this task, Twilight." Doctor Green Clover concluded, handing the last scroll to Twilight for her perusal.

Twilight, raising her eyebrows in surprise, replied, "To be honest, Doctor, I didn't think this would be at all possible, but it is certainly beyond the theoretical if your math holds together, and it seems to do just that", she pondered aloud.

Celestia spoke up, "Doctor, your idea certainly has merit. If we proceed with a demonstration, we will need a test location."

"Indeed we will, your Majesty. We will need an area of semi flat land, farmland perhaps, away from any large, populated area. That would be for safety reasons, of course", he replied.

Twilight's face brightened. "We could test it out at Sweet Apple Acres! Applejack has some land they keep fallow, and it would be large enough to test the spell, and far enough away from Ponyville as to prevent any accidents! I know she would approve just so she could be the first to begin saving Ponyville's crops from dying out!"

Doctor Green Clover beamed. "Marvelous! If you would contact your friend, I can prepare everything we need for a test later this afternoon! That is..." he hesitated, looking at the Princesses, "if your highnesses approve."

Luna looked to Celestia and nodded, who turned to Doctor Green Clover.

"Doctor", she said resolutely, "you have our permission to put your plan into motion. Whatever you need shall be provided to you. Let us hope we can save Equestria's food supply, and her ever fragile economy. In the interim, I shall explain to the debate committee your necessary absence."

As the ponies exited Celestia's study, Princess Luna was heard whispering to Twilight, "I love it when a plan comes together."

***

It was just after noon, and Applejack was sitting on her porch swing, looking out over the orchard. While many of the trees looked healthy enough, she saw the tell tale yellow and brown patches of grass, a sure sign of dehydration beginning to creep up on her farm. While she couldn't fault the Mayor for her tightened water rationing policies, she sure could be a little upset that it still meant less water for her precious trees.

She heard the creaking of the porch swing as she leaned back. Big Mac and Granny Smith had left for Fillydelphia that morning to visit Granny's sister Arlet, and so in a way, the farm felt empty and deserted. Of course, Applejack knew she wasn't alone, and without realizing it, began scanning the beautiful (but cloud free) blue skies. Up there was her marefriend, and she knew that even when she was out of sight, she wasn't out of mind, and she was never going to leave her side. In her heart of hearts, she knew this.

She closed her eyes and felt the breeze, warm and inviting. She listened to the leaves rustle in the trees, and for a brief moment, her heart panged at the idea of losing any of them to the prospect of a continued drought, before she reigned it in, and hog tied it into submission. She wasn't about to let fear get the best of her.

As she let herself go in the warm breeze, her ears began to pick up what sounded like tiny footsteps. Footsteps that belonged to a small but fast creature. A moment later, she heard the heavy breathing, and then the higher pitched voice that called out her name.

"Applejack!"

She recognized Spike's voice immediately. Opening her eyes, she saw the baby dragon running up the path to the Apple family home. He was moving at a fast clip for such a small creature, at one point almost tripping but catching himself, until he finally reached her porch, and dropped down onto the steps.

"Apple...jack... I... have...!" Spike managed, trying to speak between ragged breaths.

Applejack chuckled, "Hey, calm down there, Spike, an' catch yer breath. Ain't no need to tucker yerself out!"

Spike, finally calming himself, replied, "I had to get this message to you. I promised Twilight I would, and she said that if I didn't get it to you as fast as my feet could carry me, she would make me organize the library for the next two weeks!"

Applejack raised an eyebrow. "Well, then, what's so important, there, Spike?"

Spike put up a claw, and waited. A moment later, a gout of flame erupted from his jaws as a scroll appeared. Catching it deftly, he handed it to Applejack, who opened it and read it aloud:

"Dear Applejack,

Ah have been conversin' with a Doctor Green Clover here in Canterlot, and he says he has a theory usin' magic, ta make it rain in Equestria, an' end this threat of a drought. Ah hope you don' mind, but since we needed a place ta test, I volunteered th' empty acres behind yer farm. If ya don't think ya can do it, let me know an' ah'll find a new place. Otherwise, Doctor Green Clover and ah will see ya in a few hours when we arrive from Canterlot.

Yer friend,

Twilight."

Looking up from the scroll, Applejack pondered only for a moment, before replying to Spike, "If Twilight thinks she can make it rain with her magic, and wants ta use those fallowed acres we got, then ah say she gets the chance. Ah trust her. Go ahead and send that, Spike." she finished, rolling up the scroll.

Spike saluted, and ran back toward the library before Applejack had a chance to offer him a glass of applejuice.

She began scanning the skies, looking for Rainbow Dash. She would have to let her know, in case Twilight needed her help. They were all in this together, and by Celestia's flowing mane, they'd lick this drought before it could do any more damage to her home.

***

Applebloom knocked on the ornate door of Carousel boutique, looking around hurriedly. A few seconds later, she heard Rarity call out, beckoning her inside. Stepping inside the door, she saw Sweetie Belle sitting dejectedly on a dais, being fitted for various small dresses. She looked over to Applebloom and her ears perked up.

"Hey Applebloom! I'm SO glad to see you here!" She gushed. Looking over at Rarity, she called plaintively, "Sis, can I go play with Applebloom?", putting on her most pouty expression. Rarity raised an eyebrow, but smiled and replied, "Certainly, my dear Sweetie Belle. We're finished here. Go play with your little friend, just be back before closing time!" she called as she watched the two fillies rush out of the boutique and likely into mischief.

"Sweetie Belle", Applebloom began, as the two trotted away from Rarity's store, "Ah have somethin' ah need to tell ya'll and Scootaloo. Can ya git her, and meet me back at th' clubhouse?"

Sweetie Belle nodded, "Sure, Applebloom! It might take a little while. Scootaloo had to go home and clean her room, but if she's still doing that, I can help and we can get to the clubhouse in about an hour!"

Applebloom nodded, "Sounds like a plan ta me! See ya at the clubhouse!" and with that, the two fillies brohoofed and ran off toward different destinations.

***

Ponyville

4:00 PM

Twilight and Doctor Green Clover stepped off of the waiting carriage. Doctor Green Clover volunteered to fetch Twilight's luggage, giving her time to thank the guard ponies for their service in getting her home safely.

"Are you ready, Miss Sparkle?" Doctor Green Clover asked, his voice strained under the weight of all of Twilight's luggage. Glancing at the good Doctor and blushing, she used her magic and lifted the heavy burden from the older gentlecolt.

"I'm sorry, Doctor" she apologized, "I guess I brought back more books than I planned", she added, flashing him an embarrased smile.

For his part, the Doctor merely chuckled and waved a forehoof in response. "Think nothing of it, my dear", he said, "when I was your age, you couldn't keep me away from books. It's a shame I don't have the time to enjoy that activity" he finished with a sigh.

Twilight gave him an empathetic smile, and together they walked toward the library, eager to get things squared away so that they could begin the experiment.

"Do we have transportation out to Sweet Apple Acres?" Doctor Green Clover asked as they stepped inside the library.

Twilight shook her head, "Actually, Sweet Apple Acres is only a ten minute walk from here."

Doctor Green Clover sighed a little, "Ah, well, the exercise will do me good."

Twilight motioned to her sofa, "Please, Doctor, take a seat. Would you like some tea?"

Doctor Green Clover smiled, "Yes, please! I haven't had tea since yesterday, and I have to say the world doesn't seem right without a cup every so many hours". He finished his observation with a wink. Twilight gave him a quick smile and headed into the kitchen.

I sincerely hope that he doesn't see me as some kind of love interest! she thought to herself. She had little experience in flirtation, though Luna seemed to think she was far more flirtatious than she knew.

At the thought of Luna, Twilight's heart melted, and she leaned against the kitchen table, her head swimming with memories from their encounter the night before. Twilight had never felt that way about anypony, but Luna, she was special. She brought out feelings in Twilight that the young mare never knew were there, and those feelings had awakened something in her that made her want to be with the Princess of the Night all the more.

Forcing herself back to her current reality, she began preparing the tea, hoping that the good Doctor only saw her as an intelligent mare, or even just a young version of himself, maybe, but hopefully not a love interest. She didn't think she could handle something like that so soon after figuring out how she felt for another pony!

She finished preparing the tea, pouring two cups and bringing them back into the living area. From where she stood, she could see Doctor Green Clover reading her notes on effervescent magic dilation.

"What do you think?" she asked him, hoping to curtail any potential thoughts of romance, and offered him his cup of tea.

Doctor Green Clover looked up, taking the tea cup from her waiting hooves, and smiled. "I think your work is brilliant, my dear. In fact," he said, taking a sip of his tea, "I think- ooh, this is quite good-, I think you have a great deal of promise. I could see you rising through the ranks of the Canterlot Academy, garnering accolades and degrees, forging a path for new magical sciences."

Twilight blushed and turned her head to avoid eye contact, "Oh, I don't think I'm that smart", she replied bashfully.

Doctor Green Clover waved at her with his free hoof, "Oh,don't be silly, my dear. You're absolutely brilliant! I've been reading up on you since we first met at the symposium, and I must say I've become quite taken with you."

Twilight blanched and nearly dropped her tea cup. "Oh! Um, Doctor, I, had, no idea you, er, thought of me that way! I mean, to tell the truth, I'm... I'm in a relationship." she finished apologetically.

Doctor Green Clover, mouth agape, merely stared at her a moment, his eyes wide.

He gained his voice after a few moments of uncomfortable silence. "Oh dear! Oh, dear, no, my child! Oh my! I didn't mean for you to think of it in that way! Oh, no!" he laughed, rolling back onto the sofa, his tea sloshing from side to side in the cup, "Oh! No, my dear! I didn't mean it like that. When I say I'm taken with you, I mean that I consider you quite the admirable scientist! Oh, my dear, you are, and I mean no offense, much too young for the likes of an old veteran like myself!" He laughed so hard, tears began to form in his eyes, his tea swishing perilously close to the edge of the cup.

Noting this, he placed the cup and saucer on the table, and gently took Twilight by her forehooves.

"My dear Twilight", he said, sobering, "I consider you a friend, and a compatriot. Nothing more, I swear. If you see me wink, or pat you on the back, I promise you, it is merely a sign of scholarly affection."

At this, Twilight breathed a sigh of relief and smiled, "Thank you, Doctor, that is a relief, no offense intended." At that he smiled, and she continued.

"Let's say we finish this tea, and get our instruments out to Sweet Apple Acres. I'm sure Applejack is waiting for our arrival anytime." She checked her wall clock. It was almost 5 o' clock, and they would have to leave soon.

Until then, however, they sat together, and drank their tea in silence, eager to get started on the project ahead.

***

Chapter Ten

CHAPTER TEN

5:30 PM

Sweet Apple Acres Fields

"Is everything ready?" Doctor Green Clover called over to Twilight, who was barrel deep in diagnostic equipment. She looked up from her consoles at the sound of his inquiry.

"I've got it all set up, Doctor. It should now be possible to record all pertinent data while minimizing magic feedback. If all goes well, you will be able to recreate the results anywhere in Equestria, though, not to brag or anything, I'm not sure where you'll be able to find another magical user with the needed expertise on the same level as myself."

Doctor Green Clover chuckled, "Oh, that is very true, my dear Twilight, and I am certain you are not boasting. I have seen your skill, and you are every bit as amazing as a pupil of the Princess should be."

He walked over to where she was standing. "Actually", he continued, "I have a solution for that. When the data has been gathered, it should be possible for me to build an amplifying unit to allow lesser skilled unicorns to channel their magic more acutely. This will make it possible for widespread deployment throughout Equestria. We won't ever have to worry about a drought again. That is, of course, if all goes well today."

***

Applebloom made her way up the ramp to the clubhouse, opening the door and stepping inside. Nopony else was there as of yet, so she decided to occupy her time by writing in her journal. Nopony else knew about her journal. She was so secretive of the idea that she kept the journal in the clubhouse, away from any of her family.

Looking around to make certain no other pony was around, she stepped over to a corner of the clubhouse, and wrapped hard, twice, on a loose plank. A second later, it popped open and she removed a box with a combination lock on it. Opening the lock, she retrieved a small, dust covered, dog eared, book. Grabbing a pencil from the drawer nearby, she opened the book, and before writing, glanced out the window once more to make certain nopony was around. Seeing nothing, she began scribbling furiously.

"Dear Journal,

Last night, I found out that my big sister Applejack is in love with her friend Rainbow Dash. They both looked really happy together, and made me promise not to tell any other pony until they had talked to their friends first. Seeing them together makes me feel hopeful. It makes me realize that my feelings aren't wrong. I mean, if my big sister, who is the heart of honesty, can love another mare, who is the definition of loyalty, how could it be bad for me to have feelings toward another filly?

Ever since the Crusaders and I talked to Lyra and Bon-Bon, I've had this weight on my chest that I've just wanted to get rid of, to let it all go and tell that special filly how I feel. I mean, she's so sweet, and she's smart, and I just can't go a day without thinking about her. It's always scared me a bit, because I know how most ponies in our family feel towards that kind of thing. I'm not sure how big brother would take it, or Granny Smith, either, but they've always been kind to everypony. Surely they would be okay with this kind of thing.

Sometimes I just can't picture my life without her, either. I know I'm only 12 years old, but it really feels like love, and not just some infatuation. Unlike most ponies, I'm just not a filly interested in a colt, and seeing Lyra and Bon-Bon, and now Applejack and Rainbow Dash together, I think just maybe it's okay, and maybe one day soon I'll tell her how I feel.

Today, I'm going to tell the Crusaders about Applejack and Rainbow Dash. I know I promised not to say anything, but it wouldn't hurt to tell my two best friends. Of course, the other reason I'm doing this is to see if maybe she'll be happy to hear the news, and that might give me the last bit of courage I need to finally tell her how I feel."

Finished with her entry, she looked up to see the outlines of two ponies heading her way, coming just over the hill. She hurriedly placed the notebook back in the box, locked, and then in the hidden floorboard, making certain that there was no evidence of anything amiss.

As she looked out the window once more, she noticed that the sky had turned cloudy and dark, the wind whipping up and pushing hard against the clubhouse. The walls groaned ever so slightly with each gust, but Applebloom wasn't worried. She had built the clubhouse well, and after all, they needed the rain badly. She reassured herself of her own hoofwork as a strong gust caused a loud creak to resonate inside the clubhouse.

***

Rainbow Dash swooped down over Sweet Apple Acres, the wind whipping up her mane as she passed the barn. Spotting Applejack standing next to the scientist that came with Twilight Sparkle, she dropped down, and flared her wings, landing next to the orange pony.

"Looks clear, Applejack. I didn't see anypony around the area. So how's Twi doing?"

Applejack turned to her, "Ah think she's gettin' started, but ah ain't sure. I don' know much about magic and all that. Ah'm just a plain pony. Still..." she paused, looking up at the dark and foreboding sky, "ah'd say she's doin' somethin' right."

They both turned toward Twilight, who was stock still, her visage contorted in fierce concentration, as her horn lit up like a giant flare, illuminating everything a dozen meters away in every direction.

Doctor Green Clover was busy watching the various instruments the pair had setup to gauge the intensity and effectiveness of the storm.

"So far, so good! Can you boost your magic gain any further?" he called out over the wind to Twilight, standing a few meters away. The instruments were bathed in purple light, making it difficult for Doctor Green Clover to read some of the gauges, but it was only a minor concern.

Without nodding or opening her eyes for confirmation, Twilight increased her concentration, gritting her teeth in the process.

"Excellent! Winds now moving at 40 kilometers per hour, Miss Sparkle! Cloud cover approaching critical!" he called out, looking up at the sky overhead to see the last remaining clouds interlocking with one another, creating a dark grey ceiling, one that threatened a torrent of rain if all went well.

Pouring every last ounce of willpower she had, Twilight's horn glowed so brightly that everypony nearby had to turn their heads and cover their eyes with their forelegs. Finally, seconds later, out of sheer exhaustion, Twilight collapsed to the ground.

For a minute, everypony was silent.

Applejack watched her lavender friend catch her breath, waiting for any sign of success. After two minutes, there was nothing. Applejack felt for Twilight. All of that hard work didn't appear to do any good. She let her mind run to what would happen to her crops. No apples. No harvest. No money. No farm. Then it hit her.

Not an idea. Not the implications of the drought. Not a realization.

A raindrop.

A raindrop hit her squarely on the muzzle.

Another raindrop.

Then another.

And another.

Then, without any further warning, the deluge began.

***

The three crusaders looked out the window of the clubhouse, and watched as the rain began to pour down. They jumped up in excitement, running down the gangplank and out into the blissful downpour, giggling and screaming in joy as the rain fell upon their upturned, smiling faces.

Across town, Mayor Mare stared out her window and gasped in amazement as raindrops began leaving their tracks on the glass. She clasped her hooves together and cried out in jubilation, "It's raining! It's raining! I've done it! I'll win the next election hooves down for sure!"

Meanwhile, in the heart of Ponyville, ponies were running out into the street, laughing and playing in the rain.

Over at Sugarcube Corner, Pinkie Pie was hopping about, getting drenched, "Oh! Oh! Look at all this silly, willy, filly, dilly, rain! Ooh! We need to have a party! A rain party! We can have rain cake, and rain ice cream, and rain balloons, and rain doughnuts, and rain muffins and...!" she continued, firing off a litany of other confectionary treats as she bounced back into the shop to get started on her plans.

Near her cottage, Fluttershy was hurriedly getting her furry friends inside, under cover from the now torrential flood of precipitation. Even though she was outwardly panicked, in her mind, she was greatly relieved. Now everypony and every animal friend would have the water they needed, and they wouldn't have to be super scared of going without, and that made her feel warm, even as the cold rain coated her fur, matting it as she continued herding her friends inside the warm, dry, cottage.

Rarity stepped outside of her boutique, shrieked aloud at the surprisingly wet reception she received, and hurriedly ducked back inside, slamming the door.

***

Twilight Sparkle was overjoyed. The spell had worked, the rain had come, and all was going exactly as planned. She glanced over to the Doctor, who was vainly trying to cover his instruments with the tarpaulin he had brought with him. Twilight began to set it up for him, but found that she was unable to do so.

"Doctor!" she called as she ran over to where he was struggling with the tarp. He turned to her as Applejack and Rainbow Dash had galloped over to help. "Yes, Miss Sparkle?!" he replied, as Applejack and Rainbow Dash positioned the tarp in place. They ran underneath and stood next to the instrumentation, watching the rain as it fell in buckets.

"I can't seem to use my magic", she finished, as she ducked inside.

Doctor Green Clover nodded his head in response, "that is to be expected, Miss Sparkle. You have likely drained your reserves. It will be several hours before you can easily use your magic again."

Even though it was only temporary, it was still a bit unnerving to be unable to use her magic. Still, the cost was relatively low for what had been accomplished. She smiled as she looked around, the rain bouncing off leaves and grass, the dry earth of the field soaking up the water greedily.

A clap of thunder made them all jump as the tarp billowed about them from the buffeting winds.

"Do y'all know how long this here gullywasher'll last?" Applejack called to Twilight over the sound of the wind.

Twilight looked at Doctor Green Clover, who responded, "I am not exactly certain, Miss Applejack, but it should not last longer than a few hours. If all has gone as well as it has so far, the spell will have caused sufficient perturbation in the surrounding atmosphere to catalyze the machinery in Cloudsdale into re-engaging their previously maintained state."

Applejack paused a moment. "Uh, come again'?"

Twilight giggled, "He's saying that if everything goes right as it has, the rain will stop in a few hours, and Cloudsdale's factory can take over again. No more drought."

Applejack looked bashful. "Thanks, Twi. You know ah was never good at that ol' fancy sciency talk."

Twilight smiled, "No problem, AJ."

They turned toward the opening of the makeshift tent as a bolt of lightning shot down to the ground, illuminating the dark skies around it with a brilliant white flare.

"Oh my!" Twilight exclaimed, "I didn't think I managed to put that much power into it!"

Doctor Green Clover cleared his throat, "It seems you have, my dear. The instrumentation here", he said, motioning to the collection of devices that were beeping and humming, "shows that the storm has gained in strength. We may be seeing more than a few hours of rain. Still," he continued quickly, "I see no reason for alarm. All has worked out as it should, and there should be no trouble."

At that moment, several high pitched screams pierced the howling winds.

***

"Applebloom! Scootaloo!" Sweetie Belle cried out as she pushed through the remains of their clubhouse. She hurried through the damage, shoving aside planks as fast as her small body could move them.

"Applebloom! Scootaloo!" she cried out again, desperately pushing aside a large board where the desk used to sit. Finally, she spotted a pink bow underneath a large wall stud. She rolled it aside, grunting in pain from the gash on her leg, and carefully pulled Applebloom from the rubble.

Laying the unconscious filly on a clean patch of grass, she checked to make sure Applebloom was okay. After hearing her heartbeat and steady breathing, she set off to find Scootaloo. Covering her face with her foreleg, as by this time the winds were whipping about, and the rain was almost blinding, she stumbled over an object poking up in the debris, tripping and going down onto her forelegs as she did.

Looking up, she saw the object. It was a scooter, with it's handle broken, and missing wheels. Sweetie Belle started searching frantically. She heard a muffled voice come from where the desk had been relocated by the wind, and raced over to it, pulling it off a dirty, scratched, and coughing Scootaloo, who appeared to be conscious.

"Scootaloo! Are you okay?!" Sweetie Belle asked, near tears. Scootaloo accepted Sweetie Belle's outstretched hoof, and climbed to her legs. She nodded, and shook her purple mane.

"Yeah", she coughed, "I'm alright! Just a little scratched up! What happened?! Where's Applebloom?! Is she okay?!"

Sweetie Belle motioned for her to follow her, "she's over here in the grass! I pulled her out from under some boards. She's breathing and everything, but I think she got knocked out!"

They made their way over to Applebloom's location, as Sweetie Belle leaned down to check her once more. Scootaloo spread her wings, wincing as she felt something twinge, and positioned it over her friends in an attempt to keep them from getting even more soaked than they were.

"Applebloom! Wake up!" Sweetie Belle called to her friend, tears in her eyes mixing with the rain as it fell from her muzzle. "Wake up, Applebloom! We hafta get out of here!" she cried, plaintively. She gentle rocked her unresponsive friend, shaking her by her shoulders.

"We've got to do something! We need help!" she yelled to Scootaloo over the roar of the wind.

Scootaloo looked at her two friends, friends who were in desperate need of help. She looked down at Sweetie Belle.

"You stay here and watch Applebloom. I'm going to go get help!" she said, her face set in determination.

Sweetie Belle, who was still stricken with fright over the state of her friend, merely nodded her head and turned her attention back to Applebloom.

With that, Scootaloo looked over to the rubble and her broken scooter. That option was out of the question. With no other choice, she bolted off in a swift gallop, heading for Sweet Apple Acres, the nearest source of help.

***

"What was that?", Rainbow Dash called out to Applejack, who shrugged her shoulders.

"Ah'm not sure, but it sounded like somepony is in trouble!" she exclaimed, looking at Twilight and Doctor Green Clover. The four of them filed out from under the tarp and looked around. The rain and wind made it difficult to see more than a few meters in front of their own muzzles.

"I can't use my magic to light anything around us, and I can't see anything more than a dozen hoofsteps ahead, can you Doctor?!" Twilight called out.

"I am sorry, I cannot, Miss Sparkle! It is too dark and the rain too forceful! I cannot see anything!" he replied, squinting and blinking his eyes in the torrent of water.

Applejack turned away from them at the sound of wingbeats. She saw Rainbow Dash preparing to take off.

"What are y'all doin' Rainbow?!"

Rainbow Dash looked to her with determination in her eye, "I'm going to find out where that scream came from. Somepony needs us, and I'm the best pegasus for the job!"

Applejack objected forcefully, "You'll get yerself hurt or worse! Ya cain't do it, Rainbow! We hafta find another way!"

Rainbow Dash shook her head, "There's no time and you know it!" She pointed her hoof toward the grove of trees on the far side of the hill, visible for a brief moment as lightning lit up the area around it. "I heard it come from over there! I want you, Twilight, and Doctor whatshisface to stay here! I'll be right back!"

With that, Rainbow Dash bolted into the air, her rainbow trail visible for a brief moment before disappearing into the gray cloudcover.

***

"Oh, Applebloom!" Sweetie Belle cried, stroking her friend's rain soaked mane as she huddled under a large flat piece of cardboard that offered little shelter from the storm, holding her still unconscious, but breathing, dear friend in her forelegs.

She looked down at Applebloom's peacefully sleeping face. She could only hope that Scootaloo had found help, and that they were on their way, because if anything happened to Applebloom, Sweetie Belle's heart would have been broken in pieces. She loved her friends, and would go through thick and thin with them together. There was nothing they couldn't do, nothing they couldn't accomplish. No mission too great, no dream too big for the Cutie Mark Crusaders.

A roll of thunder erupted from above, startling her.

She looked out toward the direction of the treeline, hoping above all hope that help was on the way.

***

Chapter Eleven

CHAPTER ELEVEN

The wind was whipping through Dash's feathers so fast, she was afraid that they would simply rip right off and leave her flightless and stranded on the ground below. Rain pelted her as she dove in and out of the clouds, flying above them long enough to catch her breath, and then diving below as to scout for the source of the terrified screams she had heard earlier.

A flash of lightning illuminated the ground ahead, and in that brief second, she saw what looked like debris. Flying low, the wind and rain battered her as she raised a foreleg to protect her eyes as the driving wetness threatened to blind her. Large, cold raindrops assaulted her from every angle as the wind whipped and whirled, shoving her in different directions as she hugged her wings to her side, and angled downward, through the storm, the ground approaching fast. Suddenly, she flared her wings, and alighted relatively gently on the ground. A bolt of lightning struck the ground nearby, giving Dash the appearance of an angry Pegasus thunder goddess.

As she approached the debris, she could swear she heard muffled crying. Her pegasi hearing much more sensitive than the average earth pony or unicorn, Dash traced down the source as belonging to a cardboard box.

Raising an eyebrow, she walked around the side, feeling the wind ruffling her feathers, and looked underneath the large rain soaked flap. There she saw something that nearly made her heart freeze in place: a weeping white unicorn, and her unconscious earth pony friend in her forelegs.

"Sweetie Belle!" Dash called out.

The unicorn filly looked up in surprised and yelled frantically.

"Rainbow Dash! The clubhouse broke apart in the wind and Applebloom isn't waking up! I tried to use my magic but I'm too little to make it work! You hafta get her to a hospital, please!"

Rainbow Dash nodded. "Sure thing, kiddo! Here!" She said as she slid into position, picking up Applebloom in her forehooves, "get onto my back!"

Together, they positioned Sweetie Belle on Rainbow's back, between her wings.

"Now", Dash continued, "I need you to hold onto my neck really tight. Okay? Make sure you don't let go. It's going to be rough going in this crosswind with both of you, but this is the only way, got it?"

Sweetie Belle nodded, tightening her forelegs around Dash's neck, closing her eyes, and praying to Celestia to save her friends.

"Are you ready, sport?" Dash called out behind her.

Sweetie Belle replied in the affirmative, and within mere seconds, Dash tore off into the air, weaving and dodging as much of the wind current and torrential rain as she could, hoping above hope that she could safely deliver her precious cargo safely to their destination.

***

"Applejack! Applejaaaaack!" a voice called out from the distance.

Applejack looked around for the source of the cries, but couldn't see anything.

"Twilight!", she called, "do ya have enough magic ta light up the area around us?"

Twilight replied, "I think I do! Let me try!"

Concentrating as hard as she could, Twilight's horn began to glow a soft magenta, lighting up the ground around them.

From her position, Scootaloo saw a purple glow up ahead and raced faster, her heart hammering in her chest. Her muscles burned, and she knew she was at the end of her strength, fighting the whole way with the unrepentant elements. She started to falter. She knew any second her little legs would give out. There was only one chance, and she knew it. As she felt herself begin to stumble, she leapt into the air, and flapped her wings as hard as she could.

Her hooves stayed off the ground. Combined with the speed of the wind, and the filly's sheer determination to save her friends, Scootaloo was flying. She felt the air rush beneath her wings, her feathers rustling in the strong winds, as she flew the last hundred yards separating her from that purple glow.

Applejack saw, at the last second, an orange blur pile into the magenta light, and heard a loud "OOF!" from two different voices, one of them very surprised.

The magenta light snuffed out.

"Are ya alright, Twilight!?" Applejack called out in the direction of the now darkened light source.

"She is okay, Miss Applejack!" she heard a voice in a strong germane-ic accent reply, "She is simply winded! It seems we have a guest!"

Applejack made her way over to the sound of the voice, and saw laying in front of her hooves a pile of ponies. It seems the orange blur, who she now recognized as Scootaloo, had crashed into Twilight, whom had landed on top of Doctor Green Clover.

All three of the ponies got to their hooves.

"Twilight! Applebloom and Sweetie Belle are at the clubhouse! Applebloom's hurt and Sweetie Belle is watching over her until we can get some ponies together to go rescue them! We have to hurry!"

Applejack spoke up, "Scootaloo! Ya said Applebloom was hurt! Do ya know how bad?!" she panicked. If anything were to happen to her sister, she wouldn't know what to do with herself.

"She was knocked out by the crash, I think!", Scootaloo replied, still catching her breath.

Applejack's heart shot into her throat. Oh dear, Celestia!

Before anypony could do anything else, a rainbow contrail could be seen approaching rapidly. It's owner appearing a moment later, shouting "Look out below!", before landing hard on the ground, her back hooves making contact, even as her forelegs stayed in the air, holding what appeared to be a filly.

Applejack gasped. She knew who it was that Dash was carrying.

"Dash!" she called, "is that A-a-Applebloom?!" she managed, her breath catching in her throat.

Rainbow Dash nodded solemnly, "Yeah, Applejack. I can't stick around, I have to rush her to the hospital. Take Sweetie Belle here and you guys can meet us there!"

Applejack stroked the mane of her unconscious sister. "Then go", she said, "and save my sister."

With that, she kissed Rainbow Dash on the lips. She stepped back, looking at Rainbow Dash with admiration and fierce love in her eyes.

Dash nodded, "I will. I promise, Applejack."

With that, she held Applebloom tightly, and blasted into the air. Applejack watched for a moment, and just as they were getting ready to rush to the hospital themselves, they heard it, and then saw it happen: A thunderous boom overhead, louder than any thunder, and a brilliant ring of rainbow fire illuminated the ground all around them.

"I know you will, Rainbow", Applejack muttered to herself, tears falling from her eyes, as the worried ponies galloped toward Ponyville.

***

Dash felt herself go sonic, and moments later the clouds in front of her parted, terrified of the force of nature that was Rainbow Dash, the hyper-accelerated air in front of and behind her creating a tunnel of clear vision, slightly blurred from the speed, as she raced toward Ponyville General hospital.

She took a moment to glance down at the unconscious filly. Her marefriend's little sister. She looked back up, now in deep thought. She had seen Applebloom and the other fillies who made up the Cutie Mark Crusaders running around Ponyville, always getting into some kind of trouble or another. Still, they were good fillies, with good hearts and strong minds. Rainbow hoped that Applebloom's strong will would keep her going as she raced to the hospital, which was now looming up ahead.

As she approached, she saw the doors to Ponyville General opening. She breathed a sigh of relief. Twilight had probably stopped by the library and had Spike deliver an emergency message to the hospital staff that Rainbow had been on her way.

She swooped down, and landed on the sidewalk in front of the double doors. She saw Nurse Redheart and a few orderlies waiting with a gurney to take Applebloom back for examination. Without a word, she transferred Applebloom over to the care of Nurse Redheart, who merely nodded and said, "We'll do everything we can. Please wait here for your friends. There's nothing else you can do until we can check her over."

With that, the medical team was off, and Rainbow Dash was standing in the doorway of the hospital, soaking wet, her heart in pieces, her worry showing in her rosemary eyes. She wished Applejack were already here, by her side. It wouldn't have made any medical difference, but it would have made Rainbow feel stronger.

***

Ponyville General

30 minutes later

Applejack, Twilight Sparkle, Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, and Doctor Green Clover rushed through the double doors into the lobby of the hospital.

"We're with Rainbow Dash" Twilight spoke to the nurse at the front desk, who simply nodded and pointed down the first hallway.

As they galloped down the hallway, Applejack looked around hurriedly for any sign of her friend or her sister, finally spotting Rainbow Dash pacing in the waiting room at the end of the hallway. She rushed into the waiting room, and grabbed Rainbow Dash by the neck, kissing her fiercely on the lips.

After a moment, they separated, Rainbow Dash giving her a haunted grin, "Hey, I told ya I'd get here. I will never let you down, AJ. I love you too much-", but she was interrupted by a fierce hug and another kiss.

"Rainbow, I never doubted ya for a second", she replied, tears in her eyes.

She stepped back as Twilight and Doctor Green Clover cantered up, Twilight's eyes wide and her mouth agape. "Uh", she stammered, "You, uh..." she left the words unfinished.

At that moment, Nurse Redheart entered the room, a smile on her face. "I'm glad you are all here. It seems Applebloom had a mild concussion, and while she will be in a bit of pain from the bruising, she is otherwise unharmed. If you can wait a few minutes, I will let you go see her."

The room erupted in cheers, and with the knowledge that Applebloom was safe and relatively unharmed, Applejack began crying and collapsing to her stomach. Rainbow leaned down and held her in her forelegs, kissing her on her head, and whispering her love to her.

Twilight watched in silence, her heart warmed by what appeared to be a newfound love between her two dear friends. Doctor Green Clover simply blushed and looked away, while Scootaloo stuck her foreleg in her mouth, making a gagging motion.

Sweetie Belle just stood and stared. She couldn't tear herself away from the sight of her friend's sister, holding the hooves and heart of a rainbow maned sky blue pegasus.

Suddenly, there was silence.

Twilight heard it first, looking up toward the window, and the others soon followed her gaze.

"It's stopped!" she exclaimed as she ran to the window and looked outside.

"The clouds are breaking up! The wind has died down!"

All that remained of the violent storm was soft rain, making a pitter patter against the cold glass of the window pane.

She heard hoofsteps behind her.

"You may all see her now."

***

It was dark, but sound was everywhere. It was as if she had been thrown into a river of rushing water, and that she was being pulled in every direction all at once. It was a cacaphony of different sensations. The cold on her fur, the disorientation that kept her head swimming, and the shuddering beat of her heart, thrumming in her chest and in her brain, as if it had grown twice it's size, just to make it's presence known. All of this fell in on her, muddling everything, leaving nothing but a confusing din.

After a few moments, the confusion stopped. The heartbeat calmed, the rushing sensations and cold faded, and even the sound had stilled to nothing. All that remained was a steady, light, beeping noise.

Applebloom slowly opened her eyes. She saw artificial light, and white walls directly in front of her. She realized she was looking up, and that what she was seeing was the ceiling. Very slowly turning her head, she saw that it was apparently a hospital room. For a moment, this confused her.

How did I get here? she thought to herself. Then the memory flooded back. The wind, the rain, the storm, the clubhouse shuddering, and then blackness.

As she turned her gaze, she saw a group of ponies standing in front of her, all of them with various looks of joy and concern.

Applejack was the first one to her bedside.

"Hey there, Applebloom. How are ya feeling'?" she asked, deep worry in her voice. She stroked Applebloom's foreleg, comforting herself and her sister.

Applebloom gave a groggy smile, and replied, her voice hoarse, "Hey Sis. Ah'm okay. Ah've felt better, though."

They both chuckled at the light observation.

Rainbow Dash stepped over next to Applejack, holding her hoof, and looking at Applebloom.

"Hey sport," she began, "you gave me quite a scare! Gotcha here safely, though" she finished, with a little pride, but no boasting in her voice. It was more relief than self promotion.

Applebloom nodded slightly, "Thank ya, Rainbow Dash. Ah owe ya mah life."

Rainbow Dash blushed, but refused the burden, saying, "Nah, kiddo. That belongs to your friend Sweetie Belle. If she hadn't saved you from that debris, and protected you in the storm, we might not of saw ya in time. Scootaloo even went out into the storm and found help. You've got some great friends, there, kiddo."

Applebloom looked over to her two dear friends, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo, who were standing back, looking nervous, as if unsure whether to run over and pile on their friend, or wait until everypony else had left. Fortunately, Twilight made the decision for them.

"We're glad you're doing well, Applebloom." She turned to the other ponies, "why don't we give her some time to see her friends. I'm sure they want to talk. We can get some coffee while I write up a report to the Princess."

The rest of the ponies, save for the CMC, began to file out of the room, with Applejack giving her little sister one last hug. Together, she and Rainbow Dash walked out of the room, side to side, so close they were almost touching.

After they had gone, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo trotted up to the side of the bed.

Applebloom, worried, asked, "Are you two okay? Ya seem scared or somethin'. Ah'm alright!"

With that, the two fillies smiled at one another, and pony piled on top of their dear friend.

"We're so happy you're okay!" they both yelled in unison, and before she realized she had done it, Sweetie Belle grabbed Applebloom in a fierce hug. "I was so worried about you", she said softly, tears in her eyes, "I though you were gone for sure", she said, her voice muffled in Applebloom's mane.

The heart monitor began to beep faster, while Scootaloo gagged.

Applebloom started tearing up. Here she was, with the filly who made her heart beat so fast, and she still couldn't say anything! I don't know if I could ever tell her, she thought morosely. Still, as she cast aside the sad thoughts, she felt warmed by her best friend's heartfelt happiness that she was alive and well, and as long as she had that happiness and friendship, she'd find a way to get through each day until she could build up the courage to tell her friend just what was in her heart.

***

Epilogue

EPILOGUE

Three Months Later

It was a beautiful day.

Twilight Sparkle opened her eyes, rubbing them to remove the sleep, and glanced around the spacious, opulent room. She had stayed the night at Canterlot Palace, taking a break from all of the research she had just completed regarding Doctor Green Clover's experiment.

It hadn't really failed, she ruminated, but there were unforeseen circumstances that we weren't ready to tackle. With all of the weather data we collected, it will now work as it should.

She had worried over what would happen to Doctor Green Clover, since the experiment ended up costing the town of Ponyville hundreds of thousands of bits in property damage. There was even some damage in towns as far away as Fillydelphia. The storm had spread fast and out of control.

Still, it all ended up working for the best, and Doctor Green Clover was lauded for his efforts, that is, after the Princess gave her blessing to his work. There had been no other casualties that day, and in light of the promise his findings would bring, everypony had felt a setback was worth the end result. No more drought in Equestria.

Her thoughts were interrupted as a Midnight blue Alicorn opened the door to her room.

"Is there a sleepy headed pony in here?" she called out, seeing Twilight sitting up in the bed, her mane ruffled from a good night's sleep.

"Yeah, she's right here", Twilight giggled.

Luna walked over to the bed, and kissed her lavender marefriend on the lips.

"I am so glad I have found you, and I mean that in every way, my sweet Twilight", she whispered.

Twilight blushed, and then something occurred to her that simply hadn't before.

"Luna", she began, "may I ask you a question?"

Luna nodded her assent, "you may ask me anything, Twi."

Twilight cleared her throat, "Um, I've noticed recently that when you're around me, you sound different. You don't speak in a royal accent, or the royal formal tongue. In fact, you sound, er, normal." she finished, stressing the last word without meaning to do so.

Luna, for her part, simply raised an eyebrow, and cast Twilight a knowing smile.

"That, my dear," she stated softly, "is because I can be myself around you. I do not have to be The Royal Pony Sister, Princess Luna, I can just be Luna. That, my dear sweet, is one of the many reasons why I love you."

She placed a hoof on Twilight's chest, and, leaning in, stroked Twilight's mane, and nuzzled her neck. "For as long as we live, I shall always love you, Twi."

"And I will always love you, Luna. Forever in my heart."

They kissed softly. Their breathing the only sound in the room.

***

Applejack and Rainbow Dash lay in bed, holding one another tight. The farmhouse was quiet, with only the rooster's crow to pierce the soft morning glow that alighted in dust motes and particles through the bedroom window.

"Rainbow?", Applejack muttered softly into her lover's ear.

"Mhmm" came the sleepy response.

"Rainbow?", Applejack said, a little louder.

"Gh..sleepy" was the reply.

Applejack snorted. "Rainbow, consarnit, wake up for a second, I'm trying to be romantic-like and you ain't helpin'!"

At her marefriend's insistence, Rainbow Dash's eyes shot open and she let out a "gah!", falling off the bed and onto the floor.

Applejack laughed. "Way to impress me, there, Miss Crash."

She heard a laugh come from the side of the bed.

"Well, to be fair, it's not like my marefriend is the gentle type."

They both laughed at Rainbow's quip.

"So", she said, as she stood up, brushing the dust off with her hooves, "what's up for today?"

Applejack thought for a moment, "Well, there's some more harvesting to be done, but that should be taken care of by noon. If ya want, we can travel inta town and have lunch at Sugarcube Corner. Ah'm sure Big Mac wouldn't mind if we took a break away from the farm for a while."

Dash nodded her head, "I'm glad he was okay with our being together. I mean, you know, he and Granny Smith aren't what you'd call 'modern'", she finished, rubbing the back of her mane.

Applejack nodded, "Yeah, they're old fashioned, sure, but what ya have ta remember about us Apples is that we love our own, and we can work through anythin' and stay together. They'll all come to love ya someday, Rainbow, just as I love ya."

Rainbow smiled, and climbed back into bed, taking Applejack's hat from atop the bedpost and placing it upon her own rainbow mane.

"So, how do I look?" she asked Applejack, a smokiness in her voice that wasn't there a moment ago.

Applejack ran her hoof up Rainbow's belly, then her chest, letting the hoof graze the soft blue fur gently, letting it lead to Rainbow's muzzle, where Rainbow took it gently and kissed it.

"You look amazing", Applejack breathed.

Their lips met a moment later, the beauty of the morning light fueling their passions. Pressing against one another hard and firm, their bodies began to sweat from the heat of the moment.

"Ah will love you forever, Rainbow, as long as mah heart beats in mah chest."

"I'll always love you, Applejack, as long as there will always be clouds, seeds, and apple trees."

THE END

[Author's Note]

I would like to thank everyone for reading my story. This was my very first, and I put a lot of work into it, as small as it is. I just wanted to do right by my favorite couple, and... my other favorite couple. Also, some CMC shipping because we've all been there when we were kids. Okay, maybe that's just me.

Before I wrap it up, I'd like to give a shout out to everyone in the comments section of my story over at FIMFiction.net, who helped me shape the story into a more streamlined process instead of noobing it to death. You have my thanks and my blessings.

Anyway, you know the standard boilerplate: I own none of this, it's all Hasbro/DHX Media/Lauren Faust's brilliant hard work paying off and letting those of us with imaginations to run free and live in this fantasy world, frolicking (that's right, frolicking).

My Little Pony™ is owned by Hasbro, et al. All respective copyrights upheld.

"Of Clouds, Seeds, and Apple Trees" written by The Lotus Tea Dragon.

You can find my page at http://www.fimfiction.net/user/TheLotusTeaDragon

Stop on by and leave me a comment!

Love always,

The Lotus Tea Dragon