Denial

Applejack pushed her way slowly into Golden Oaks library, her eyes wide, and her muscles tense. A persistent irritation burned behind her eyes, making her fearful and jumpy, meaning when Spike walked up to her and waved, the pony nearly leaped out of her skin.

“Hi, Apple-” Spike began, only to be cut off by a shriek.

A shriek that slowly dissipated until Applejack gulped down her terror, a hoof placed firmly over her heart. “Jumping jackrabbits, you scared me half to death.” Muttered the earth pony.

“Really?” Spike deadpanned, looking around the room. “Cus I just walked up to you.”

“Err yeah, I’m a little jumpy is all. Say, is Twilight here?” Applejack pressed, looking over the dragon’s shoulder for any sight of the alicorn.

Spike shrugged. “Sorta, she went upstairs but I’m pretty sure she's with Pinkie Pie and the rest of them.”

“The rest of them? You know what, that doesn't matter. Is she in her room?” Applejack asked as she walked past the dragon, making a beeline for the stairs up and into the attached apartment area.

“She is, but you really shouldn't interrupt them they are…” Spike frowned, watching as the door slammed shut, leaving him alone in the main library area once again. “Busy.”

Shrugging to himself, Spike walked back over to the couch and flopped back down, a claw grabbing the comic book he had dropped when he had seen Applejack enter. “Noone ever listens to the dragon. It's not like I know what they are doing up there and am trying to stop the awkward situation I can see coming.”

Applejack looked around, her gaze quickly finding the door she was looking for. A door with Twilight’s cutie mark emblazoned on the front, as well as a small do not disturb sign hanging on the doorknob. Applejack didn't notice that last part, as she was too busy feeling elated at the sight of Twilight’s room and the freedom it represented.

With hope welling in her chest, she ran over to the wooden portal and threw it open. “Twilight I-” she began, only for her words to get caught in her throat.

There in the middle of the room, where Twilight’s usual bed lay two mattresses pressed together and covered with pillows. Blankets were tossed everywhere, and four ponies lay in a tangle of limbs at the center of the mess. Pinkie Pie lay on her back, her face between the legs of Rainbow Dash who all but sat on the earth pony’s face. Rainbow Dash, had her own head between the thighs of Fluttershy, who was half standing, half leaning on a small mountain of pillows, her lips pressed against Twilight’s. Who in turn, had her own sex pressed against Pinkie Pie’s, completing the circle of passion.

For a few seconds, nothing happened, then there was an explosion of feathers and movement, as Fluttershy flew screaming from the room. The pony leaped out the open window and could be seen flying for a few feet before landing on the ground and sprinting in the direction of her home.

“Wait, Fluttershy, stop!” Rainbow Dash yelled, the other pegasus jumping up and running after her friend, stopping only at the window to flash Applejack a glare. “Nice going, Miss doesn't know how to knock. She was finally opening up to us!”

Then, before Applejack had a chance to say anything, the pegasus was gone, flying after Fluttershy and quickly vanishing from sight. Leaving behind an alicorn and an earth pony who was sitting there awkwardly in the middle of the bed.

“Sooo…” Twilight began. “Can we help you with something?”

Applejack opened her mouth to speak, only for no words to come out for several seconds. “I’ll wait in the hall.”

Without waiting for a response Applejack did just that, closing the door and taking step off to the side, her body leaning heavily against the wall. “What in the hell did I just walk into?” She muttered, a hoof pressed firmly against her forehead. And why the hell am I so wet? She thought, unwilling to speak that part out loud for fear of someone hearing her.

A few minutes later, when Applejack had wiped away the wetness that clung between her legs, and the shame that burnt on her cheeks, the door opened once more. Twilight poked her head out and motioned towards Applejack. “You can come in now, we cleaned everything up.” She whispered.

“Are ya sure, cus I could come back?” Applejack half asked half stated.

“The damage is done, no offense,” Twilight replied.

“R-right.” Muttered the earth pony.

Stepping inside, Applejack quickly discovered that everything was indeed cleaned up, including the stench of sex and sweat that she hadn't been paying attention to at first. Pinkie Pie stood off to the side awkwardly, her side pressed against Twilight’s, a hoof wrapped around the alicorn’s leg. “Sorry about… all that. I was just a might bit flustered I guess.” Applejack began, her gaze falling to the floor. “I just saw your door and suddenly I thought all my problems were going to go away and I got a little too excited.”

Pinkie Pie raised an eyebrow. “Well I forgive you, but you might have to wait a day or two for Dashy to do the same.”

“I do as well, of course,” Twilight added. “Fluttershy likely feels the same, but it's going to take a while for her to look you in the eye.”

“I suppose I deserve that,” Applejack muttered. “So uh, are you four together, or something?”

“Were a herd.” Pinkie Pie declared while nuzzling the alicorn affectionately. “Twilight is the boss lady, of course.”

The lavender mare blushed and scratched her cheek. “I don't think she needed to know that last part, Pinkie Pie.”

The pink pony shrugged. “I mean she would have guessed that anyway. It's pretty obvious your the mare who wears the pants.”

“None of us wear pants,” Twilight replied, looking down at the pink pony in confusion.

“Annnyway,” Applejack interrupted. “I’m sure ya’ll are gonna announce this whole thing to the rest of your friends like Rarity and whatnot, so we can save talking bout that for later.”

Twilight shrugged. “I suppose. But Rarity already figured it out.”

Applejack blinked. “How long have y'all been an item?”

“Thirty-nine glorious hours!” Pinkie Pie announced gleefully.

The farm pony blinked, only to shake her head. “Sometimes I swear Rarity’s special talent is gossip, rather than fashion.”

“She is surprisingly good at it,” Twilight admitted. “She managed to piece it together after having only heard that Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, and I went over to Pinkie Pie’s and didn't leave until much later that night.”

“Huh.” Applejack shrugged. “Regardless, I was hoping you could help me with something, ya see I was hoping you’d have a spell or something that could help me-”

“Get off?” Pinkie Pie finished, turning to Twilight. “Do you mind if I explain?”

Who in turn, nodded. “Go right ahead.”

The pink pony took a deep, deep breath, before starting to speak. She told Applejack of how Celestia had cast the spell on Twilight when she was young, and how Luna had also fallen prey to the alicorn. How that spell had gotten mixed up and interlaced across all six of them to a lesser extent. How they had managed to figure out their own triggers, and what they were, all in a single breath.

“Woah,” Applejack muttered. “Was all that true Twilight?”

“Every word,” Twilight affirmed, the alicorn having disengaged from her herdmate sometime during the long-winded explanation in order to retrieve a long list of some kind. “Except for that part where we all wore party hats and sang kumbaya, I don't know where that came from.”

“I like to imagine we had a fun sing-along midway through the party. We haven't had nearly enough of those lately.” Pinkie Pie declared with a smile.

“True,” Twilight admitted. “I guess the winds of harmony haven't exactly been motivated by our recent more R-rated hijinks.”

“I guess that wouldn't exactly fit for our new audience either.” Pinkie Pie muttered, tapping her chin with a hoof, only to gasp suddenly. “Wait, does this mean you want to join our herd?”

Applejack recoiled as if slapped, her mouth flapping like a fish after landing on dry land.

Twilight rolled her eyes and placed a hoof on Pinkie’s back. “I don't think Applejack is that type of pony.”

“Darn tootin' I ain't!” Applejack shouted, only to quickly cover her mouth with a hoof. “I mean, not like that's a bad thing I just ain't interested in all that. I’m a one-pony kinda pony.”

Pinkie Pie shrugged. “I was only teasing.” The pink pony leaned forward, flashing the farmer a wink. “Or was I?”

The alicorn chuckled to herself and gently pulled Pinkie back, allowing Applejack to have her personal space unviolated by the excitable pink pony. “Alright, so first thing’s first, we have to go through the list and try and figure out what your trigger is.” Twilight declared.

“Oh yay, list time!” Pinkie Pie exclaimed happily. “It's like twenty questions, but way sexier.”

“I don't really have time for no psychology mumbo jumbo. If yall have a spell or something that would help me find some satisfaction that would be great. Otherwise, I gotta get back home and finish my chores. We can talk about this whole thing later.” Applejack insisted though the blush on her cheeks betrayed the fact that she was morbidly curious.

“I’m afraid there doesn't exist such a spell, but even if there did, it wouldn't work on you.” Twilight declared sadly. “Until we find what your trigger is, you won't find any satisfaction. In that way, anyway.”

Applejack frowned. “Maybe a potion then? Acupuncture? Aromatherapy?”

Pinkie Pie shook her head. “Noper dopers.”

“I’m afraid the spell is tied to some aspect of who you are, and we won't find out what aspect that is until we’ve asked you a few questions.” Twilight declared sadly.

The farm pony frowned deeper but reluctantly sighed. “I guess if it's the only way.” She muttered.

“Alright, now then.” Twilight cleared her throat and gazed down at her list. “What is your sexual orientation?”

“I’m straight.” Applejack declared as confidently as she could muster, which is to say, not at all.

“Wow, no wonder you lose all your bits when you play poker,” Pinkie remarked with a smirk. “You’re a worse liar than gummy and his poker face is terrible!”

“I am straight.” Applejack declared, only to shrink slightly. “Is it really that obvious?”

“Unfortunately,” Twilight replied sadly.

The farm pony sighed. “I guess I don't exactly like stallions, but it's just… Granny would be mighty disappointed if I wasn't. She's old-fashioned.”

Twilight pursed her lips. “Let's come back to this later.” She muttered, setting aside the list. “Do you have much experience dating?”

Applejack shook her head slowly. “Not really. I tried dating a few colts when I was younger, but I never could make myself interested ya know? After that, I haven't really done any dating or anything. Just kept my head down and focused on the farm.”

“Until she came along.” Pinkie Pie finished, the party pony grinning from ear to ear.

“How did you know?” Applejack asked quizzically. “I haven't told anypony about that.”

Pinkie shrugged. “It's just a guess, but I had a feeling something changed. Plus I totally caught you checking out Rainbow Dash one time but she didn't believe me.”

“I… no comment,” Applejack muttered, a hot blush crossing her face.

“Why exactly would Granny Smith be disappointed?” Twilight pressed, her voice lowering slightly. “Is she a homophobe or something?”

“Nah, it's nothing like that,” Applejack replied quickly. “She just wants me an mac to have families of our own so we can take over and expand the farm. Not that she wants me and mac to get together or anything, got damn this thing has left me flustered. Anyway, I can't really start popping out rug rats if the room is all carpet if you catch my drift.”

“I think I know what you mean,” Twilight murmured. “But there are ways to get around that.”

“Yeah I mean just this morning I was giving Fluttershy the best blowjob ever!” Pinkie Pie declared. “I damn near sucked her dick off.”

“Weird flex, but okay,” Twilight muttered.

“Wait, Fluttershy is a guy? But I thought that voice thing was caused by the poison joke.” Applejack remarked while scratching her head.

“No, Fluttershy does not naturally have a dick, or has grown one due to some sort of magical hijinks.” Twilight quickly explained. “I gave her one through the use of a spell, and though I’ve always ensured that pregnancy is not a possibility if you desired, it could be.”

“Yeah, and she can make it as big as you want.” Pinkie Pie declared excitedly, the party pony gesturing to her crotch, where she stroked a huge, phantom dick. “I like it when mine is as thick as my leg and almost as long!”

“You’re lucky Fluttershy is turning into a size queen or you’d never be able to put it in anyone,” Twilight whispered.

Blushing hotly, Applejack quickly cleared her throat. “So what your saying is you could give them a dick that would actually work? Cus that sounds a bit far-fetched.”

Twilight rolled her eyes. “Oh please Applejack. I can bend the very fabric of space-time and alter reality itself through force of will alone. Giving you a dick capable of knocking someone up is child’s play compared to some of the spells Celestia taught me.”

“Yeah I mean, Twi Twi tore a rift in reality just so she could eat out Fluttershy while she was-” Pinkie began, only to get a hoof stuffed into her mouth.

“Applejack does not need to know every facet of our sex lives.” Hissed the alicorn, only to recoil in shock when she felt Pinkie lick her hoof. “Eww, gross Pinkie.”

“Oh come on, it's hardly the weirdest thing we’ve done.” Pinkie Pie replied with a shrug.

“Could I really get impregnated by some magical dick?” Applejack pressed, the farm pony ignoring the awkward encounter that had just played out before her.

“Absolutely.” Twilight declared. “I could also ensure that you were knocked up with twins, triplets, etc. if you really wanted, but that would take some time and study first to ensure the spell’s success.”

“That is… interesting,” Applejack murmured, the pony imagining what she would look like when knocked up with two or more foals at once.

Pinkie Pie giggled and pointed to the furiously blushing face of The earth pony across from her. “Oooh, she's imagining it!”

“I was…” Applejack closed her mouth, stopping herself from uttering another weak lie. “No comment.”

“Please Pinkie Pie, not everyone is as comfortable as you are about such topics. Please tone it down.” Twilight reprimanded, giving the party pony a nudge with her shoulder.

“Sorry.” Murmured Pinkie Pie.

“It's okay Pinkie, I know you’re just excited but this whole thing is new territory for me is all,” Applejack explained. “Plus the fact I like… mares. Isn't the only reason Granny would be disappointed in me.”

Twilight lifted an eyebrow and glanced at her friend in a new light. “She's not a speciesist or something is she?”

“I mean not really.” Applejack sighed. “It's hard to explain.”

“We got time.” Pinkie Pie added.

“Well, it's like this.” Began the farm pony. “Unless somepony you marry can help out the farm it creates strain on everybody else. Now I know help comes in lotsa different ways, but it's just hard to convince Granny that anything other than old fashioned earth pony techniques have any value.”

“She sounds rather stuck in her ways.” Twilight reiterated with a sad frown.

“I think this pony I’ve been thinking about would be a help and all it's just… A worry of mine.” Applejack murmured.

“So who is this mystery pony anyway?” Pinkie Pie asked, only for her eyes to go wide. “Wait, let me guess! Is it Golden Harvest? Wait, you said not an earth pony, hmm…”

Twilight chuckled and rolled her eyes. “Why don't you go ahead and tell us, if you don't I’m fairly certain Pinkie Pie will guess it eventually.”

Applejack chuckled as well, though the earth pony did so nervously while rubbing the back of her neck awkwardly. “Well don't laugh, but it's actually…” She gulped. “Zecora.”

“Really?” Twilight asked, lifting an eyebrow. “I never would have thought.”

“Dang, that was going to be guess number seventy-three!” Pinkie Pie announced, clopping her hoof against the floor in annoyance.

“Y-yeah,” Applejack muttered, the apple farmer pawing the floor nervously. “I’ve kinda sorta been thinking about her for years but it's just… complicated.”

“How so?” Pinkie inquired. “You tell her how you feel, and then you see if she likes you back or is willing to take a chance on you.” She shrugged. “It's that simple.”

“It isn't that simple.” Applejack hissed, stomping a hoof. “I thought she was some sort of enchantress that was going to eat my sister. I treated her like a pariah! What am I going to say, huh? That I’ve harbored a secret crush for years and I never did anything about it because I still feel bad about being a racist jerk?”

Pinkie Pie’s hair deflated, falling straight, as tears budded at the edge of her vision. “B-but we made it right, I even threw her a party!”

“There there Pinkie.” Twilight comforted, a lavender wing squeezing the smaller pony tightly. “What I think Applejack was trying to say was that she feels as though she never made things right, while you did. Isn't that right Applejack?”

The farm pony winced under the glare of an angry alicorn. “Y-yeah. Look, I’m sorry Pinkie, this whole thing has me thrown right for a loop, and talking about this stuff ain't helping to settle mah nerves.”

Pinkie Pie sniffed and wiped away a tear, her hair slowly gaining it's signature poof. “It's okay Applejack, I felt the same way before Twilight helped me out. I even made a griffon joke my head was so topsy turvy.”

Applejack nodded slowly. “Y'all did something for her, be it a party, or whatever. Me? I couldn't bring myself to do anythin other than buy her breakfast one time when I saw her in Sugarcube corner.”

“She’s forgiven everyone in town Applejack,” Twilight whispered softly, a hoof pressing against the farm pony’s shoulder. “She knows that most things that come from the Everfree are treated with fear and suspicion, and accepts that same fear and suspicion was accidentally applied to her.”

“It's not that simple.” Applejack countered. “She may have forgiven us for what we did, but that doesn't mean that I have forgiven mahself.”

Pinkie Pie nodded solemnly. “Have you thought of what you would do to fix that?”

“I… have,” Applejack whispered. “But it's not easy, and it needs to be a surprise which means I am gonna need help.”

“I’m sure Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy wouldn't mind helping.” Twilight offered. “Whenever they get back here that is.”

“Then after you do this big thing for her you can invite her to a party of two and ask her out!” Pinkie Pie declared excitedly, her sadness now washed away by sheer exuberance. “It's perfect!”

Applejack rolled her eyes and chuckled. “I wouldn't go that far, I don't even know if she’d give me the chance or if this would work out.”

“Applejack.” Twilight began. “We know you, and we know that you already have a plan in mind, and how to get it done. So, how about we skip to the part where you explain your idea?”

The farm pony smiled and stood up. “All you guys gotta do is keep her away from the Everfree and distracted for about a day. I got everything all worked out, and although it may take some sweet talking to move around the chore schedule, I think we can get it done as early as tomorrow.”

“I’m in!” Pinkie Pie declared.

“Me too, and I’m sure when we go and find Rainbow and Fluttershy they will say the same,” Twilight added.

“Are ya sure? I know this is all a little sudden for ya and ya’ll have jobs and whatnot.” Applejack murmured.

“I’m sure it won't take much to bribe Spike into taking care of the library for an extra hour or two, it was his turn to keep an eye on the place tomorrow anyway,” Twilight replied dismissively.

“And Mrs. Cake gave me a bunch of friendship emergency days off that I can use whenever I want!” Pinkie Pie added with a grin. “And this totally counts as one of those!”

“I don't know what to say,” Applejack muttered. “Are ya sure about this?”

Twilight nodded confidently. “Of course we are, and with Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy’s help, I’m certain this will be a success.”

“Well alright then!” Applejack declared, a wide smile crossing her face. “Thanks, girls!”

The farm pony deftly wrapped her hooves around the necks of both other mare’s pulling them in for a tight hug. So tight in fact that the two mare’s eyes nearly popped out of their sockets and they struggled against Applejack’s iron-like limbs. “You have no idea how happy I am for this. I never thought I’d be able to get over my worries about what happened between me an Zecora.” Applejack began. “If this works I’ll owe you girls more than I could ever repay.”

“Too tight.” Twilight squeaked.

“Can't breathe!” Pinkie Pie added.

Releasing her grip on her friends, Applejack took an awkward step back, blushing profusely. “Err, sorry bout that.”

Twilight pounded a hoof against her chest, wheezing audibly, her voice coming out like something between a whimper and a squeak. “No problem.”

“It's what friends do.” Pinkie Pie added in an equally distressed tone of voice.

Wincing to herself, Applejack awkwardly took a step back. “Do y'all need a glass of water or something?”

“That would be great, thanks.” Twilight wheezed.

Nodding, Applejack turned and disappeared downstairs. This is worse than I thought. I hope Twilight’s right and this works or else I’m gonna have to scratch giving hugs off the list of things I can do safely.

Zecora perked up and looked out the window of her home, noticing that there was a pink figure waving excitedly on the other side. “I wonder why Pinkie has come this far to roam, perhaps she seeks safety in my home?” Asked the zebra to no one in particular.

A second later a knock on the door alerted her to the fact that the pink pony had not come alone, as she was still waving at the window. Chuckling to herself, Zecora waved back finally, prompting the pink pony to grin and disappear. With a deft movement, the zebra replaced the potion she was working on the shelf with the others before making her way over to the door.

Opening the wooden portal, Zecora was greeted with the sight of several of her Ponyville friends arrayed before her. From left to right stood Twilight Sparkle, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, and last but not least Pinkie Pie, all of whom seemed excited to see her.

“And what can I do for you all, after you've made such a long haul?” Zecora inquired.

“We were just wondering if you had anything planned today?” Twilight asked, already grinning. “Because we were hoping to treat you with a day out on the town.”

“Yeah, cus you like totally helped out Ponyville tons and we wanted to say thanks!” Rainbow Dash added excitedly.

Zecora lifted an eyebrow. “Although I do not hesitate to assist, this is still quite a twist.”

“I think they are speaking more generally and not about one single event.” Fluttershy interrupted. “You have done a lot for the town, and the ponies that live there.”

“Plus we got you this gift card for The Toad and Mask!” Pinkie Pie exclaimed excitedly, shoving a thin plastic card towards the zebra.

“Well, I do need to pick up some more eye of newt…” Murmured the zebra, who inspected the card closely for a few seconds before nodding. “Oh, what the hay, this could be a hoot.”

“I’m glad you think so Zecora, because we had a whole day of fun planned just for you,” Twilight added, the alicorn grinning from ear to ear.

“I did need to take a break, if only for my sanity’s sake.” Remarked the zebra who nodded. “Give me a moment to grab a pack, and I will be right back.”

With that, the zebra closed the door and vanished, allowing the four ponies to silently cheer.

“Nice job with that gift card Pinkie.” Rainbow Dash exclaimed, giving the mare in question a light punch on the shoulder.

“Yeah, that was a nice addition,” Twilight added.

“Ahh, what can I say? I’m a natural when it comes to gifts.” Pinkie Pie replied, the party pony brushing some nonexistent dirt from her shoulder.

“And humble too,” Fluttershy whispered, already blushing before her herdmates all giggled at her joke.

Zecora returned a second later with her usual saddle bags and loose cloak, which she had previously explained was to ward off burrs and other hazards native to the forest. “I have all that I need, and will allow you four to take the lead,” Zecora announced, a wide smile spreading across her face.

“Excellent.” Twilight declared. “Onwards, to Ponyville!”

The five friends set off towards Ponyville, quickly disappearing into the thick vegetation, until even the sounds of their laughter, and conversation were lost amidst the trees. Leaving a single pony to slip from her hiding place, shovel in hoof, and a grim, nervous expression on her face. “Alright then, let's get down to it.” Applejack declared, tugging a small wagonload of other tools and supplies behind her.

“I don't mean to be rude, but that may have been too much food.” Zecora declared, one hoof clutching her stomach as she stumbled through town on three legs.

Around the zebra Twilight’s herd all nodded in agreement, all save for Pinkie Pie however, who merely shrugged. “It wasn't so bad, was it? I mean that was pretty much a light snack for me.” Pinkie Pie replied, confusion evident in her voice.

“Pinkie, you made over a dozen pizzas for supper and a cake larger than a foal.” Rainbow Dash declared, only to wince and clutch her stomach as she flew overhead. “I think I have a literal food baby in my stomach.”

“That was a little much.” Fluttershy agreed. “But it was also very good.”

Pinkie Pie beamed under the praise, her bouncing step going higher than ever. “I’m glad you all liked it, what did you think of it all Zecora?”

“I must say, it was a wonderful day and though I may have eaten more than my fair share, the food was simply beyond compare.” Zecora praised, the zebra securing the flap on her bulging saddle bag tightly.

“Oh hey, look girls! The sun is setting.” Twilight pointed out, gesturing to the horizon where the sun was indeed dipping below the horizon.

“Oooh, pretty.” Murmured Pinkie Pie, with the rest of the herd, and Zecora uttering similar affirmations.

Together they stood silently in the middle of the street, all eyes on the setting sun, and after that, the rising moon. With the moon beginning to make its way into the night sky, the spell of silence was broken, and together the five mares began to trot towards the Everfree and Zecora’s home. “Though when it comes to wheels I feel like the third, I must thank you Twilight, and your herd,” Zecora announced suddenly, turning and stopping before them. “My time today was nothing short of great, though too much I may have ate.”

“Aww, it was nothing.” Pinkie Pie replied bashfully.

Rainbow Dash nodded. “I’m glad we got to show you a good time, you should get out more. Not like you don't get out now, or whatever.”

“I think she knows what you mean Rainbow.” Twilight interrupted. “And we were just glad to be able to spend time with you Zecora.”

The zebra’s cheeks grew a bright red, and for the first time in a long time, she seemed at a loss for words. That was until she shook her head suddenly, and breathed deeply, turning away from the small group. “Though I would love to stay and talk, to my home it is a rather far walk and with the dying of the light, I must bid you goodnight.” She exclaimed, glad that nopony could see her still blushing face.

“Good night Zecora, see you soon,” Twilight replied, waving at the zebra, even though the other being had her back to the alicorn.

An action that the rest of her herd quickly followed, each one waving and saying their own goodbye. “Please do come for tea again soon!” Shouted Fluttershy.

“And make sure you come back to Sugar Cube Corner sometime! I promise to make more of that amala stuff you liked so much!” Pinkie Pie added, the party pony waving vigorously at the zebra.

“Have a fun walk!” commented Rainbow Dash, who was only barely able to contain her excited laughter.

Twilight smiled as Zecora stopped just long enough to wave back at them, before turning away and walking down the end of the street and leaving Ponyville proper behind. “Do you think Applejack got it done in time?” Twilight inquired, turning to the lone airborne member of their herd.

Rainbow Dash nodded confidently. “Oh yeah, it was close but I managed to get all the way to the Everfree to check on her while Zecora was in the washroom that last time.”

Nodding, Twilight turned back to where she had seen Zecora disappear around a corner. “I hope this works.” The chorus of agreements that came from her herd was like music to her ears.

“So…” Pinkie muttered suddenly. “My place or what?”

“Actually I was thinking that maybe we could move some things around at the cottage and stay there for the night,” Fluttershy whispered, the shy mare pawing the ground nervously. “I mean, if that's alright with you girls.”

“Good thinking Shy, that way we can nonchalantly pass by Zecora’s new path and check it out.” Rainbow Dash added, lightly punching the other pegasus in the shoulder.

Twilight chuckled at Fluttershy’s furious blush. “Well I have to check on Spike, but why don't we meet back at Fluttershy’s in an hour and in the meantime, our resident wonderbolt could do a little aerial reconisance.”

Rainbow Dash grinned and gave the alicorn a brief salute. “You got it, boss!”

“This is so exciting!” Announced Pinkie Pie.

“Alright, see you girls in an hour!” Twilight exclaimed, before vanishing in a flash of light.

Leaving the rest of the ponies to all give their own goodbyes before leaving and heading home. All save for Rainbow Dash, who gave her wings a quick stretch. “Let's see if Applejack’s as sauve as Pinkie Pie bet she was.” Muttered the pegasus, before launching into the air.

Lifting an eyebrow, Zecora approached the edge of the Everfree where she usually began her trek back to her hut. Only now where there were there were usually dense vegetation and nopony around, there was now a smiling Applejack and a wide open path. The earth pony was covered head to hoof in grime and had a large wagon piled high with various landscaping tools.

Approaching the pony, Zecora only then realized that the path behind her stretched deep into the Everfree and was wide enough to allow even a fully loaded wagon to pass with relative ease. Before the zebra could say anything, however, Applejack took a step forward and raised her hoof. “Now before you freak out, I made sure to relocate every last plant, fungus, and rock between here and your place.” Announced the pony, a wide grin on her face. “I even transported that really poisonous one out of the way safely without harming it.”

“I don't know what to say…” Zecora muttered. “What do I have to pay?”

“Pay?” Applejack shook her head. “It's a gift, from me to you.”

“This is all rather swift, I don't know what I’ve done to earn such an amazing gift,” Zecora murmured, the Zecora continually amazed by the level of care Applejack had put into the path the longer she stared at it.

It was wide, and relatively straight, weaving only slightly around various trees, and large bushes that were too big to move. The earthen path itself was covered in grass, but was still quite packed, and looked well used though it was only constructed within the last twelve hours. The level of care and attention to detail was exceptional, and Zecora could indeed tell that Applejack had done as she said she had. The sides of the path had been lined with flowers, fungi, and small plants that had up until now been underhoof.

“I err, never really apologized for being so quick to judge all those years ago.” Applejack began, the pony holding up a hoof and stopping the comment she already knew was coming. “I know ya forgave everyone, but I needed to do this cus I couldn't forgive myself.”

“You have shown the forest a great respect.” Zecora began, eyes shining. “There is not a single flower that has been wrecked.”

“Aww shucks, it's nothin'.” Applejack blushed. “Between a little earth pony magic and some care it was easy. Sides, I wanted to do something that really symbolizes that your a part of Ponyville now. You’re a valued member of the community, and I just wanted to remind you and everyone else of that fact.”

Zecora stood in silence for several seconds, until, with tears in her eyes, she lurched forward and wrapped the pony in a tight hug. “I don't know what to say but thank you. Truly you are a friend through and through.”

Applejack smiled and hugged the zebra back, careful to not accidentally dislodge the other mare’s overfull saddle bags. “It ain't perfect mind ya, but I figure that over time maybe we could lay some cobblestone or something.”

“This is all I need.” Zecora declared.

“Then your advice, I’ll heed,” Applejack replied quickly, only to blink in confusion. “Where did that come from?”

Zecora pushed back, her hooves remaining on Applejack’s shoulders. “I’ve never heard a pony speak the word. Yet I cannot deny what I’ve heard.”

“What exactly does that mean anyway?” Applejack inquired while scratching her head.

Zecora’s eyes sparkled, and she gripped the pony’s shoulders tightly. “It means we share both a deep connection and-”

“An everlasting affection.” Applejack finished, only for a hoof to fly up to her mouth. “How did I know that?”

“The word flows through us all, but couples hear more keenly its call,” Zecora explained.

“I don't know anything about no word, but I was gonna ask you out on a date.” The farmer grinned, despite the massive blush that had spread across her face. “So what do you say? Think you’d be interested in going out sometime?”

Zecora said nothing, but rather leaned forward and pressed her lips against the other pony’s, unaware of a high-pitched squeal that came from overhead. The zebra had no such attention left for anyone or anything that was not the mud-caked pony before her. Who in turn was so shocked by the sudden turn of events that she was hardly aware of what was happening until a few seconds later. Only then did her brain seem to catch up with what was happening and she leaned forward, her eyes fluttering closed as she melted into the kiss.

For several long seconds, the two mares remained there, Zecora’s hooves wrapped firmly around Applejack’s shoulders. The farm pony herself, merely standing there, doing everything she can from succumbing to a bliss-filled stupor. Then, Zecora pulled back, their lips parting, and leaving behind a dopey-looking Applejack, who was grinning like a moron.

“Just tell me where, and I’ll be there.” Declared the still-grinning Zecora.

“What about tomorrow at eight? At the silver plate?” Applejack offered.

“Sounds like a plan.” Answered Zecora, who took a step back.

“I shall see you there then!” Applejack replied, before turning from the zebra, a wide smile on her face.

A smile mirrored by an exuberant Zecora who walked down the long and well-crafted path that led to her home. “Ponies are quite the mystery.” Murmured the zebra, whose mind was busy replaying the kiss they’d shared only a few minutes earlier.

Behind her, Applejack all but bounced away, the wagon trundling behind her as she grinned from ear to ear. “This is going to be the best date in history!” She declared triumphantly.

“That was amazing Zecora.” Applejack declared, the earth pony pushing the door to the zebra’s hut closed behind them. “I never even thought to order all that stuff before, and I’ve been going there since I was a foal!”

“I’m glad to find that you have an open mind,” Zecora replied, trotting over to a corner and retrieving a trio of pillows for her, and her date. “Most ponies think it rude, to partake in seafood.”

“I was a little wary at first,” Applejack admitted, the farm pony sitting across from the zebra, and silently marveling at how soft the strange black pillows were. “But yer one of the kindest folk I know so I knew that whatever you were orderin wasn't gonna be cruel.”

“I thank you good Applejack for you respect.” Zecora began, smiling widely. “And to answer your unspoken question prawns are akin to an insect.”

“Huh, I never thought about it like that but I sure wouldn't be opposed to eatin' a bug, provided it tasted good,” Applejack murmured, the earth pony imagining what it would be like to eat the common insects that bothered her daily.

“If the chef is good insects can be quite tasty, but if they are not well trained, they are downright nasty,” Zecora replied.

“That makes sense, I wouldn't trust just anyone to make a cockroach taste good.” Applejack snickered.

“But cover it with something sweet, and you won't get a better treat,” Zecora added with a smile.

“Well that settles it, for our next date you’ll have to take me somewhere that serves bugs.” Applejack declared, only to look down. “That is if you want to go on another one, that is.”

Zecora grinned from ear to ear, the adorableness on display being too much for the zebra. “We will go on another date, the only question is how long will we wait?”

The farm pony beamed. “Well, how about next weekend? To the orchard, I don't need to tend.”

Zecora chuckled. “You're getting better with your rhyme, though that last one was a crime.”

“Err what?” Applejack remarked, cocking her head. “Oh, huh. I didn't even notice.”

“Would you like to spend some more time with me? Perhaps we could sit and enjoy some fine tea?” Zecora offered, gesturing to the nearly wall full of tea flavors on the wall.

“I’d like that.” Applejack declared, while fidgeting slightly, the pony trying to find a spot that didn't remind her of the heat that even now burned in her loins.

The zebra raised an eyebrow, but said nothing, merely standing and making her way over to the wall of flavors, her back to the farm pony. “I think a fine golden crown would help you calm down. What do you say, my dear?”

“Well, I have been feelin mighty queer,” Applejack murmured, the pony’s eyes plastered to the zebra’s backside and the other mare’s toned flanks.

Her physique was everything Applejack had tried to convince herself she didn't want in a partner. A set of wide, yet still athletic hips that led down into a pair of hind legs that went on for days and days. Clearly, the zebra had an excellent diet and a workout routine that could even stack up to Applejack’s own. The sublime sexuality of the zebra’s grace and power was utterly entrancing, and the young farm pony had to tear her eyes from the mare’s posterior as she turned around, tea bags in hoof.

“Did you enjoy the view?” Zecora asked.

“Wait, you knew?” Applejack replied, both astonished and slightly embarrassed.

“I was not only fetching our drink but also hoping to see what you think,” Zecora replied as she acquired two cups and scooped them into the cauldron that bubbled gently in the center of the room. “I am sorry, but until yesterday I did not know you were gay.”

“Heh yeah,” Applejack murmured, the farm pony scratching the back of her neck awkwardly. “I was kinda struggling with that for a while but circumstances gave me the kick in the butt I apparently needed.”

The zebra nodded sagely as she deposited a tea bag into each cup before offering the pony one such cup. “Fate is strange, fickle, and rarely kind, but it seemed you needed that kick to the behind.”

“That's putting it lightly,” Applejack murmured before sipping her tea. “Ooh, that's good.”

Zecora smiled as she sat across from the pony once more, deftly folding her hind legs under her. “Partake deeply of the drink, it may help more than you think.”

The farm pony nodded and did just that, drinking deeply of the sour yet delicious tea. Applejack had never been a tea pony before, but here in Zecora’s presence, she felt strangely relaxed, as if she were free to explore parts of herself she never had the strength to dive into. Even if those parts of her were simply a love of tea she never knew she had.

As the warm liquid cascaded down her throat and pooled in her belly she felt the heat that had plagued her for weeks begin to dissipate. Slowly the tight mass of stress that coiled in her chest began to break apart and for a moment it seemed as though the tea would win against the stress that had plagued her for so long. Then it stopped the tea no longer able to push back against the accumulated irritation that came from Applejack’s forced celibacy.

Putting down the empty cup, Applejack shifted awkwardly on the pillows, trying and failing to once more rid herself of the ever-present heat made worse by the comfortable pillows. Across from her, Zecora frowned and put aside her own cup in order to reach out a hoof and gently touch the other mare’s shoulder. “Applejack, are you alright?”

The farm pony grunted. “Don't worry about this small plight.”

“I’m afraid it's a little too late for that,” Zecora replied, her expression softened by the concern she felt deep in her heart. “Now tell me what's wrong and quit being a brat.”

Applejack chuckled nervously, her forehoof taking the zebra’s hoof in her own and squeezing it gently. “It's a long story, but suffice it to say I haven't been able to well… enjoy myself, in a long time. I know it's wrong to bring up such a thing after only a single date but it's just been difficult to ignore when I’m so close to you.”

The zebra blinked. “That is an unfortunate surprise, it does explain the direction of your eyes.”

Blushing profusely, Applejack released the zebra’s hoof. “Err yeah, usually I’m a little more reserved than that. I should probably just go.”

Before the earth pony could stand a strong hoof gripped her shoulder and kept her seat, forcing her to look the zebra in the eye. “You, my little pony, are going nowhere, now that you’ve laid your problem bare.”

“B-but.” Applejack stuttered, only for the hoof on her shoulder to squeeze a little, silencing her protests.

“There is little I could do at a distance, but with you close I may be able to offer assistance.” The zebra whispered huskily, trailing a hoof down the pony’s chest.

“Are you sure? I mean we just went on our first date. Shouldn't we wait to have sex?” Applejack questioned, the last word coming out as little more than a whisper.

“What we will do is not sex, but rather removing a hex,” Zecora replied, slipping her forehoof under Applejack’s and drawing them closer. “Unlike sex, this will be brief, and will happen only for your relief.”

“B-but what about you? I don't want the first time we er, do it to just be about getting me off.” Applejack winced. “That came out even more selfish than I thought it would.”

“Applejack my dear, your suffering is clear,” Zecora stated, tugging the earth pony into a closer embrace and prompting both beings to interlock their limbs, chests brushing against one another. “We will have sex soon, but for now allow me to give you this boon.”

“I-I…” Applejack slowly felt her resistance melt away as the zebra’s soft fur caressed her body all over. “I’ll make this up to you, I swear.”

“It will be fair if in this pleasure we will share,” Zecora replied, the zebra leaning forward and brushing her lips against Applejack’s.

The farm pony reacted quickly, leaning forward a little more and pressing herself against the zebra. Who in turn kissed her back, her lips easily being the softest things Applejack had ever felt. As the two mares touched and kissed one another Applejack felt none of the expected revulsion or disappointment she thought would come. The shame she had thought was coming never arrived, and even as she felt Zecora’s hoof caress her more intimately Applejack was not ashamed.

Whether it be simple desire overriding the part of her that would normally be ashamed of becoming so intimate so quickly or if it was the zebra’s raw sexuality overwhelming her, she wasn't sure. In the end, it didn't matter, as Applejack knew that this would work, that this would be the time she would finally find relief. In the hooves of her strong, and intelligent lover Applejack found serenity, both in the pleasure of the flesh, but also in the absolute trust they already shared. With her body already relaxed by the tea, and the zebra’s kind words, Applejack couldn't resist but submit to the zebra and trust in her.

A firm hoof shifted and rested against her chest while the other pressed against her back, and before she had a chance to wonder what was going on, she found herself gently pushed back. The farm pony didn't even open her eyes when it happened, knowing the zebra would not harm her, and sure enough gently lowered the pony to a bed of pillows, their kiss remaining unbroken. With her back now resting on a small mount of the soft fluffy things, that kiss deepened, with the zebra gently parting her lips and prompting Applejack to do the same.

With a deftness that Applejack had rarely experienced, she felt the zebra’s body twist until her forehooves were on either side of Applejack’s head while their bodies remained pressed together. Through it all, the zebra’s thin tongue explored the other mare’s mouth, touching and teasing the oversensitive farm pony. Who twitched and moaned each time the zebra moved and sent a jolt of pleasure through Applejack’s body.

Then it stopped, and Zecora pulled back, a sly look on her face. “You know, back home we have two words for sex. Each one is different based upon the effects.”

“R-really?” Applejack stuttered, looking up at the zebra quizzically.

“One is for pleasure, and the playing of roles, the other for ecstasy, and the joining of two souls,” Zecora explained, a salacious grin on her face.

Applejack gulped, the pony making a mental note to learn as much as she could about zebra culture the next chance she got. “That's beautiful.”

She was about to welcome the zebra’s embrace once more, only to stop the zebra right before their lips were about to meet once more. “W-wait,” Applejack muttered.

Lifting an eyebrow, the zebra stopped and pulled back slightly, looking the other mare in the eyes. “What is it that you need? Or perhaps I am going the wrong speed?”

Applejack shook her head. “I just want to thank you, and ask if there is any way to make this more enjoyable for you.”

Zecora pursed her lips and tapped her chin. “I want you to hold me close, even while we are in pleasure’s throes.”

Applejack giggled. “That, I can do.”

With that settled, Zecora leaned down once more and allowed their lips to meet and part. Their tongues danced through each other’s mouths, pulling back after a brief touch only to quickly descend back for another short, and passionate kiss. Over and over the two mares kissed, with Zecora leading each kiss while Applejack followed the more dominant mare’s lead eagerly. It was everything Applejack had ever wanted from a kiss, and though it wasn't her first, she wished it had been.

The only other kiss she had shared had been a rough, and forceful one that had come from her one and only boyfriend. It had been an unpleasant and altogether rough experience and had colored Applejack’s perception for years. Compared to that, Zecora’s lips were heaven, and her tongue, ecstasy, the mare’s ability and experience obvious each time their lips reconnected. So captivated by the passionate embrace that Applejack hardly even noticed that one of Zecora’s forelegs had gently removed the farm pony’s and placed it aside.

Only when she felt the zebra’s hoof begin to slowly caress her chest and stomach did she realize that there existed something outside of the zebra’s beautiful blue eyes and tender lips. With a smile on her face, Applejack opened herself to the other mare, allowing the zebra’s strong hooves to run down her belly and slip between the earth pony’s legs. Gasping, Applejack clung to Zecora’s neck, hooves brushing against the golden rings that bound the zebra’s neck.

Smiling through the kiss, Zecora let her hoof wander lower, gently circling Applejack’s small, perky breasts, making the pony squirm and moan into the zebra’s mouth. Her hooves tightened around Zecora’s neck and Applejack felt her entire body shudder the second the zebra’s hoof brushed across her exposed nipple. Grinning from ear to ear, Zecora made sure to repeat the action several times, flicking her hoof across each of Applejack’s nipples in turn.

Causing the earth pony to moan and squirm constantly, her pussy twitching and winking as it gushed with liquid arousal. Applejack wanted Zecora to go faster, to push lower, but held her tongue and focused solely on the kiss, trusting the zebra to bring her the pleasure Applejack craved. It wasn't long before Zecora seemed to grow tired of the endless teasing, and with a subtle shift of her body, stretched her foreleg lower still.

The slightest touch of Zecora’s hoof against the pony’s tender folds was enough to make Applejack tense up, her grip growing tighter, and making her moan loudly. Zecora recoiled slightly and placed a parting kiss on the pony’s lips. “I want you to plead, tell me what you need.” She whispered huskily into the pony’s ear.

“P-please Zecora. I need your touch so badly. Whatever you want to do to me I don't care, just please touch me.” Applejack begged, her body continuing to twitch wildly as her loins burned hot.

Zecora licked her lips, her hoof making slow circles around the pony’s glistening pussy. “Oh, and how bad do you want my touch?”

“So, very, very, much.” Applejack continued to plead, her body writhing under the continued teasing of the domineering zebra.

“Your cute moans I adore, prepare yourself for far more, my little whore.” Zecora whispered, her lips mere millimeters from Applejack’s ear.

The curse would have usually been enough to turn Applejack but something about the way it was whispered turned the pony on more while reminding her that it was only dirty talk. Not like she could deny it either way, as she did kind of feel like a whore for the zebra’s ever touch and caress. Shuddering in ecstasy, Applejack felt Zecora’s hoof stop circling her cunt and slowly brush against her moist lips. While this happened she felt the flat teeth of the other mare descend on her ear and bite gently down, drawing forth another moan of pleasure.

The small, subtle pain combined with the immense amount of pleasure nearly made the earth pony cum right then and there. Instead, she merely clung to the zebra’s neck desperately, as if the waves of pleasure were literal, and she may become lost if she let go. If Zecora was annoyed by the desperate manner in which Applejack clung to her, she didn't show it, focusing instead on pushing her hoof against Applejack’s dripping wet pussy.

With little resistance, the young earth pony’s body accepted Zecora’s hoof, lips parting to take the wide appendage with relative ease. Applejack herself had completely locked up as she felt the hoof slide into her, her entire body becoming rock hard as she rode out the waves of pleasure. It was only when the tip of Zecora’s hoof brushed against the mare’s clitoris did she suddenly remembered to move.

Applejack melted instantly, allowing Zecora the movement she required to dig further into the other mare’s body, sliding her hoof deeper before pulling right back out again. Slowly, the zebra continued to fuck her lover, working her hoof an inch or two into Applejack’s dripping honeypot before flicking her clit and pulling back. The treatment was rougher than what the earth pony had assumed she would like, yet here she was, enjoying every last second. The feeling of physical and emotional submission was perhaps the most surprising thing the pony enjoyed.

She knew then and there that Zecora could do whatever she wanted with her body and Applejack would take it all without complaint. More than that, she knew that the zebra would never push that power so far that Applejack would regret giving her that power over her. A single glance into the twin azure pools behind Zecora’s eyes told her that much, and Applejack could do little but fall endlessly into them. Applejack had given herself utterly to the striped mare, who had in turn taken her in completely and without complaint.

Suddenly the orgasm she could feel far in the distance came rocketing to the forefront of Applejack’s mind, a trigger deep in her mind having been pulled at that realization. In an instant, the earth pony felt her pussy begin to clamp down on Zecora’s hoof as if trying to keep the limb inside her body. Leaning forward, she kissed the zebra with all the passion she could muster, briefly overwhelming the other mare. Only for Zecora to react quickly by speeding up the motion of her hoof, and deepening her kiss, pressing her tongue into her lover’s mouth, dominating her body utterly.

Then she came, harder than she had ever thought imaginable, so hard in fact that she very nearly blacked out. Her entire body writhing with such intensity that she nearly knocked Zecora from her hooves making the zebra have to press her weight down on the shifting pony. With her body now contained beneath her lover’s Applejack held her tighter, tears streaming down her face.

The farmer’s hot juices all but erupted from pussy, absolutely covering Zecora’s hoof, which even now continued to furiously play with Applejack’s clit drawing out the already powerful orgasm. For nearly a minute Applejack did nothing but cling to her lover, remembering the zebra’s words keenly and not wanting to let her down. Only after that minute passed, and her orgasm finally began to dull did Applejack release her grasp, her limbs sprawled in every direction, a dopey grin on her face.

Pulling back, Zecora frowned slightly, her dry forehoof brushing aside the tears that were crawling down her lover’s face. “What has prompted these tears?” She asked.

“It just feels like it's been years,” Applejack explained. “I don't think I’ve ever come this hard before.”

“I’ll say, you sure did a number on my floor,” Zecora quipped back.

Applejack blinked and looked down to where a veritable pool of mare cum had gathered between her legs. “Wow, that sure was something.”

“Is there more relief I need to bring?” Zecora asked, leaning in and smirking.

“Perhaps,” Applejack replied, coquettishly. “But first I have to pay you back.”

“You don't have to do that, my dear Applejack,” Zecora replied, nipping the pony’s ear and making her start to squirm all over again.

“I may be still tired, and a little tuckered out, but I do want to go again without a doubt,” Applejack replied, a faint smile crossing her face.

The zebra smiled and planted a little kiss on the pony’s lips. “Well if you wouldn't mind taking the metaphorical backseat, I do need to take care of my own heat.”

“Use me however you want sugar,” Applejack replied, grinning widely.

That was all Zecora needed to hear as she licked her lips and pulled back, eyeing Applejack in a new, and altogether hungrier light. “Are you sure my dear?”

“I have nothing to fear.” Applejack declared.

Zecora leaned down and planted another firm kiss on Applejack’s lips, lingering there for several seconds before pulling back, a thin strand of saliva connecting them for a moment longer. “It is good that you are such a strong mare, for my passion is more than most can bear.”

Though Applejack felt her heart skip a beat, she was determined to not let that worry reach her face. “I can do it, just tell me what you need.”

“Focus your magic on staying stout, and hopefully you won't pass out,” Zecora replied, grinning at the strangely fearful arousal on her lover’s face.

Who didn't have the chance to even reaffirm her commitment to what was about to happen before Zecora began to move. Though at first Applejack didn't know what she was doing, as the zebra merely maneuvered her body in such a manner that allowed their crotches to line up, what came next made her realize what her lover intended. With a hoof pressed firmly against her chest, Applejack felt their sexes meet, and a sudden wave of pleasure coursed through her body.

It was so powerful, and so strange that Applejack wasn't sure what part of it she even enjoyed the most at first. The intimacy was high up on that list, and for a moment she felt more connected to Zecora than any other being she had ever known. Even the pleasure of intimacy and closeness paled in comparison to the raw physical pleasure that came when their bodies met in this new way. It reminded the young mare of many nights spent rubbing herself against her bed, only far less embarrassing, and far more pleasurable.

Zecora continued to remain in motion though, her hips shifting in ways that most ponies would consider impossible. Over and over again their dripping sexes met and brushed against each other, making both mares cry out in pleasure. Confused, and overwhelmed by new sensations, Applejack reached out and clutched the pillows on either side of her while continuing to keep her back end in the position Zecora had moved it into.

Unsure of what to do to really contribute, the farm pony merely looked up at Zecora, studying her slender features closely. From her slightly more angular muzzle, to her stripes, and everything between seemed to scream feminine beauty. Applejack felt herself thrown back in time to the moment she had first truly seen the zebra on that fateful day.

For the first time since their little misunderstanding and subsequent adventure, the two met, one attempting to buy apples from a shop, the other standing there in mute wonder at the beauty before her. Applejack had been so dumbfounded by her own sudden attraction that the pony remembered standing there for almost a minute before dumbly taking the change and wishing her a good day. That night Applejack dreamed of the exotic mare that saw her in the marketplace, and when she woke, a years-long crush had been born.

Now here she was, pinned to the ground by the long, graceful grey legs of that same beauty, and she could not be happier. The knot that had been slowly becoming tighter and tighter in her chest was beginning to loosen, and it was all thanks to the mare of her dreams. Without thinking, she reached up, and clasped Zecora’s cheeks, startling her out of her rhythm and forcing her to look down upon her orange lover.

Giving said lover a chance to pull her closer and kiss her with all the pent-up passion she could muster. Years of stress, self-loathing, and doubt seemed to pour out of her at that moment, and for the first time in a long time, Applejack felt… more whole than she’d been in a long time. Zecora seemed to be enjoying herself immensely as well, as the zebra was kissing back with all the intensity of someone who had been alone for too long.

The kiss didn't last long, but it also didn't last any longer than it needed to, and without a word, they began to move faster, and more intently. Applejack kept one hoof against Zecora’s chest, and vice versa, allowing them to communicate on a deeper level, and without having to speak. Hips moved and shifted to further increase their pleasure, and their bodies seemed to react to one another’s desire on a deep level.

The pleasurable friction and intimate connection only grew more intense as time went on, their voices growing louder as that happened. Moans which had begun as stifled, and hardly rose above a whisper became loud enough to hear over their heavy breathing and the sound of their bodies connecting over and over. Applejack herself seemed to slowly shed the confusion, and hesitation that had fallen over, becoming more active in the moment, and actively trying to contribute something, anything, to her lover’s pleasure.

A sentiment enjoyed by Zecora, whose own moans grew louder as time passed. By then sweat had begun to drip down their bodies, unnoticed by either party, who only had eyes for one another. Even as their fur began to become matted, and Zecora’s mohawk began to droop, they didn't look away for even a second. Throughout it all Applejack desperately fought tooth and nail to resist the urge to finish early, the mare resorting to biting her bottom lip and thinking unsexy thoughts in order to not cum before her lover did.

A lover who no longer needed to restrain herself for Applejack’s own inexperience. Their bodies connected over and over, mashing together with little restraint, both parties knowing full well that it would be nearly impossible to hurt the other. They were strong, and powerful, with decades of experience doing things most would consider exhausting. After the fifteenth minute, Applejack felt a renewed appreciation for just how strong, Zecora was, as even now her body moved with a subtle grace even while exhaustion would probably be setting in.

She didn't have to worry for long though, as those same graceful movements suddenly became far less elegant. Applejack didn't have to ask what was happening, or when it would happen, as she felt instinctively that Zecora was mere moments from orgasming. Determined to make the experience half as mind-blowing as the orgasm Applejack had only minutes earlier, the farm pony put every trick she had learned to the test.

Her hips moved in sync with Zecora’s their sexes meeting and mashing together with more intensity than they probably should. All while Applejack’s forehooves roved over the zebra’s well-muscled body, touching and caressing her fine coat, hoping to elicit a pleasurable response. Which came in the sound of a deep, throaty moan that Applejack had yet to hear from the usually quiet zebra. A sound that seemed to herald her orgasm, as mere moments later, Zecora suddenly lurched to a stop, pulled the earth pony into a kiss, and came.

An event that Applejack mentally cheered the arrival of, as she couldn't have held off for even a moment longer, and as she felt the soft, velvety caress of the zebra’s lips against her own, she came. It wasn't as hard as the time she came a few minutes ago, but it was close, with her entire body twitching and spasming as she soaked the other mare’s sex in her juices. With tongues intertwined, and bodies pressed tight, the two mares came hard, both twitching and orasming for far longer than they would have normally anticipated.

When finally they stopped and Zecora pulled back from the kiss, they could only stare at one another while catching their breath. “That was astounding,” Applejack murmured.

“Needed, that was, though perhaps we should have a pause,” Zecora replied.

“Or you could take this opportunity to teach me a thing or two.” Applejack offered, using her firm grip on Zecora’s shoulder to keep her from moving away. “You seem to have more experience in this than I.”

“I have taken the odd lover or two, though none quite as passionate as you,” Zecora answered, planting a small kiss on the farm pony’s lips.

Applejack smirked. “So is that a yes, or is that a no?”

“I admit there is more that I could show,” Zecora admitted. “But to your back, this floor is not kind. Perhaps we could head to the bed before becoming entwined.”

Applejack blinked, only now realizing that their impromptu bed of pillows was now scattered all over the floor. “Heh, I suppose a bed would be better than the floor.”

Zecora smirked, and took a step back, offering her lover a hoof and hauling her to her hooves. “To the bed, I want your butt, so we may have a better place to rut.”

Applejack shivered, and all but hopped over to the alcove wherein Zecora’s bed was found. “Yes ma’am!”

With a hungry smile, Zecora followed close behind, her gaze drawn down to her lover’s generous flanks and amazing ass. Something told her this was the beginning of something special, and for once, Zecora believed that voice in her head. She stopped only briefly to grab an empty vial before dashing off to bed and leaping atop her pony lover.

“Now then, where to start? You lack skill but have heart. Perhaps a lesson in oral would help settle this quarrel.” Zecora rhymed, eying Applejack’s features closely.

The farm pony nodded vigorously. “Wherever you want to start is fine with me, I have much to learn, do, and see.”

With desire filling the small hut, both creatures looked into one another’s eyes and came to the collective realization that this was only the beginning of a long, passionate night and neither would have it any other way.

Two beings lay in an awkward, tangled embrace, with Zecora’s hooves wrapped around Applejack’s body, holding her closely. Applejack in turn nuzzled the other mare’s chest, a blissful expression on her face, an expression that Zecora also had, yet also didn't. Hers was a look of shock, and joy, a strange combination, but one easily explained by just how blown away she had been by her formerly inexperienced lover.

Shaking off the shock, Zecora kissed the earth pony’s forehead, while running a hoof down the pony’s back. Applejack, in turn, breathed deeply, unbothered by how poignant the smell of sex had become by then. “That was amazing Zecora,” Applejack whispered, her eyes remaining closed.

The zebra merely nodded slowly, her hooves continuing to run down the pony’s back and making the pony snuggle closer still.

They stayed like that for a while, before Applejack suddenly perked up, the pony pushing back slightly and looking at Zecora with a quizzical expression. “What do ya plan on doin' with that vial of gunk?”

The zebra blinked as if only now remembering that she had gathered as much of her lover’s cum as possible. “Oh, I forgot to mention it, but this will help me in a bit. Depending on how pent up and to what degree, the power of the potion this helps make will be.”

“So it's for a potion huh?” Applejack shrugged. “I suppose that's fine, though I would prefer if you asked before gathering my fluids.”

Zecora chuckled nervously. “The moment was rather hot, and I’m afraid I forgot.”

Applejack chuckled. “Don't worry about it, hey maybe sometime you can teach me a thing or two about makin' potions.”

“I would love that.” Zecora declared, pulling her lover close and nuzzling the top of her head.

Applejack smiled contentedly, the pony closing her eyes and losing herself in the zebra’s soft fur. That was until she suddenly remembered why her head felt so naked. “Wait, where's my hat?”