Chapter Seven – Rainbow Dash’s Best Night Ever (Part I)

Twilight and her friends waited in the carriage a moment, until they saw the side door open slowly.

“The guards must still be flustered by my chastening them earlier”, Twilight realized.

With a refreshed outlook on her relationship with them, she turned a new leaf thinking, “Time to make this right.”

When the door was fully opened, Twilight was the first to exit. As the rest were stepping out of the carriage, she spoke to the royal guards with her ears drooping.

“I feel I should apologize good sirs. I’ve just been really stressed the past few months with all my duties. I shouldn’t have snapped at you like I did, so with that, I’m sorry,” bowing her head to the two stallions.

She’s at it again, was the thought on the guards’ minds. A Princess getting all apologetic towards her servants was simply an awkward concept for them to grasp. This was just Princess Twilight Sparkle, however, being her usual self, still coming out of her common life from the past. With no sort of ready response at hoof, the guards looked at each other in confusion, but settled with a smile and nod towards their Princess.

After Twilight satisfied her contrite self, she bade the guards to go on ahead and park her carriage closer to the Gala. She and her friends still had one final trek to make by hoof, another bonding tradition they shared, to admire the scene as they approached the Grand Galloping Gala.

With the carriage on its way, Twilight said, “Well everypony, we're finally here.”

Rarity checked in asking her friends, “You all remember the plan tonight?” They all hummed in confirmation and Twilight decreed.

“Then by power of our friendship, let's make this Rainbow's Best Night Ever!”

And Pinkie Pie let out a loud, “Woo-hoo!”

♪ Summer at the Gala ♪

Twilight: At the Gala!

Friends: At the Gala!

Fluttershy:

At the Gala, in the gardens,

You'll be waiting there for her.

Oh, my Rainbow, you will meet her at the Gala~

Friends: At the gala!

Fluttershy:

When she meets you, gets to know you,

She will love you, this I know.

You'll be her best friend forever,

Right here at the Gala!

Friends:

All your dreams will come true,

Right here at the Gala!

At the Gala!

Applejack:

At the Gala, I will find her,

The sweet apple of your eye,

In the gardens, in the ballroom,

And I will point you straight to her.

Pinkie will then promote your name.

Oh, won't she be impressed~

Friends:

All your dreams and your hopes,

From now, until here after.

All that you've been wishing for,

Will happen at the Gala.

At the Gala!

Rarity:

At the Gala, your heart's longing,

She will meet you Rainbow Dash!

She will find you just so ‘dashing’ at the Gala~

Friends: At the Gala!

Rarity:

You will see her, your fair princess,

How beautiful she will be!

You will catch her heart's affections,

Tonight at the Gala~

Friends:

This is what you've been waiting for,

To have the best night ever.

You will get to live your dreams,

Tonight at the Gala.

At the Gala!

Rainbow Dash:

Been dreamin', I've been waitin'

To dance with that earth pony--

That Summer Breeze, her daring hooves,

I'll impress her with my moves.

I'll show her what I'm made of,

This night I know we'll both love!

Yes, Summer Breeze will dance with me at the Gala~

Friends:

All you've longed for,

All you've dreamed,

Your happy ever-after...

Finally, will all come true,

Starts here at the Grand Gala

At the Gala!

Pinkie Pie:

Oh, she'll be at the Grand Gala,

For she loves a good party,

But the one thing she was missing was a pony named 'Dashie'! (Wink)

For you are the best of all mares, I'll make sure that she will know..

You'll be dancing, all the night long,

With her at the Grand Gala!~

Friends:

Happiness and laughter at the Gala,

At the Gala!

Princess Twilight Sparkle:

At the Gala, greeting Summer,

It is her I want to meet!

She who makes my friend's heart soar~

And turns her just so sweet.

Just who is this pony so special?

Hope to meet her at the door~

Friends: This will be your best night EVER!

Twilight and Friends:

Into the Gala, Dash must go,

Rainbow is ready, this we know!

Into the Gala, let's go in,

For Rainbow's best night ever!

Into the Gala, the next five hours--

We have her back, as she's had ours!

Friends: Into the Gala

Fluttershy: Meet with Breeze

Friends: Into the Gala

Applejack: Find her for you!

Friends: Into the Gala

Rarity: Your princess!

Friends: Show her how...

Rainbow Dash: We're right for each other!

Fluttershy: To meet

Applejack: To find

Rarity: Your love

Rainbow Dash: Prove best

Pinkie: To Dance

Twilight Sparkle: ‘Romance’ (waving her hoof downward)

All:

Into the Gala,

Into the Gala,

Friends:

We'll make this your BEST NIGHT EVER~..

At the Gala!

• End of Summer at the Gala -

It was quite a sight to behold as the six drew nearer to the Gala. Things have certainly transformed quickly over the years. The surrounding area outside had certainly become much more alive with multicolored lights shining from caged luminescent fireflies. Arriving guests were also greeted by outdoor musicians playing modern mix of punk and rock. Twilight and her friends saw Vinyl Scratch too, who waved at them as she was at work with the stereo equipment. Vinyl was carefully monitoring ever beat and tone, assuring that the music was lively, but at the same time not too overbearing for guests still adjusting to the new changes to the atmosphere. Twilight giggled to herself, musing on how the outdoor performance was actually Princess Luna’s idea, taking to the new genre herself in this still emerging modern age.

A long line was seen coming out from the building in which the celebration was taking place, but that was not of the concern of Twilight and her friends. They all, on account of Twilight being a Princess, each had special VIP passes, giving them thus immediate access.

As they were heading towards that particular entrance, Rarity felt the need to remind Twilight saying, “Now Twilight, it’s important to take note that while Summer Breeze may already be here, quick as she may be, she may very well still be waiting in that line awaiting admittance, so keep your eyes peeled.”

“Of course,” Twilight said.

Rarity then turned to Fluttershy, “And you darling, be sure to make your nesting in the chandeliers as careful as possible. Remain elusive!”

At this, Fluttershy shook her head quickly saying, “Oh yes, Rarity! I’m very good when it comes to hiding,” then snickered at herself, “even to a fault!” causing the rest to giggle around her.

They then finally arrived at the secured doorway flanked by two royal guards. Both were unicorns, which was important, being armed with a nifty spell for those passing the special VIP entrance. At the sight of Twilight, they both bowed, as did Twilight in turn.

One of the unicorn guards then addressed Twilight, “Permit us, your Highness.”

And just as the last Gala, Twilight complied, “You may good sirs.” After her permission was granted, the horns of both guards glowed a gray aura, out of which spread a wide sheet of silver light. Both sheets of silver light passed over the six, scanning and proofing their true identities.

After the scan was complete, Twilight said, “See, not changelings,” giving a victorious smile.

The other unicorn guard bowed his head and said, “Enjoy the night, Princess and company,” and the group walked entered through to doorway.

As the mares made their way down a lit hallway, Rarity called out, “And Applejack?” and waited for her response.

Applejack readily defined her role, “Right. I’ll comb through the ballroom inside and the gardens outside, look for this Summer Breeze. As you said, she looks like me, but different, and probably be wearing some mix of blue and/or green. When I see a pony like that, I tell you, RD, and Pinkie. If Fluttershy finds her first, she’ll tell me, then I’ll get ready to draw Pinkie away. If Summer’s already with Rainbow Dash in the gardens, I’ll find her anyway, and likewise pull Pinkie aside at the right time.”

Rarity didn’t even care about Applejack’s lack of specificity in colors as she cheered, “Très Magnifique!”

Excitement quickly ended then as Applejack added, “And I’ll be keeping my eyes on you too!”

Rarity avoided response, not wishing to get into the matter of Snazzy Tux again. Fortunately, she had two more ponies to review to change the subject.

“Pinkie Pie?”

Pinkie nodded and said, “Yep! My job, as wingmare, will be to make my friend Dashie look good to Summer, and then AJ will get me to leave them alone for no apparently suspicious reason!”

Rarity cheered on again, “Yes! Girls, I feel we are ready for this!”

The six made it to the end the hallway, where stood yet another unicorn royal guard. There’d be no scanning this time, only the use of his magic which caused a tall, rectangular, and bright green glow to appear on the left side. The mares walked through as they’ve often done, passing through the wall and into the ballroom. They had officially joined the Grand Galloping Gala.

Rarity then announced, “Now let’s get to our stations girls.”

Twilight was the first to respond, “Right, I’ll be flying over to Celestia,” turning then to Fluttershy, “and you’ll follow me. As I’m lowering myself to Celestia’s side, you keep going and make yourself comfortable in the chandelier.”

Fluttershy nodded and the two were off to the front entrance. Rarity looked to Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, and Applejack. Pinkie and Rainbow both smiled and made their way to the botanical gardens, mentally preparing themselves in case Summer Breeze was already there. Applejack followed behind, but not so close as to suggest she was joining them.

With Rarity alone, she said to nopony but herself, “Now time to treat myself a little!” giggling as she wandered the ballroom for a high class social circle to invade.

She’ll still keep an eye out for Summer and maybe check in on her friends every ten minutes or so; after all, she too was going to be there for her friend Rainbow Dash, and even the thought of taking a more active role in this romance like her other friends was indeed appealing.

Twilight had been flapping her way towards the entrance where the guests have been getting greeted, while Fluttershy, as instructed, kept close behind. Finally reaching their station, Twilight hoovered in place and descended as Fluttershy pressed forward to hide herself in the chandelier above the guests. She saw Twilight land right next to Princess Celestia and was quite pleased with the angle which Rarity had clearly put to consideration. Upon noticing the arrival of her friend, Princess Celestia greeted in her gentle voice,

“Twilight Sparkle! It’s so good to see you this night,” breaking from Twilight a moment to greet the next group of guests, “Welcome the grand Galloping Gala.”

Twilight missed that one, but she’ll get the next, but before they came close, she replied, “It’s so good to see you to Celestia! I can’t wait to tell you what my day’s been like,” breaking from Princess Celestia to greet the next arrivals. With that, the first station was established.

Meanwhile, Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash entered the botanical gardens. There was not too much commotion outside, just a few small, hush toned social groups, singles, and especially lovers enjoying the natural evening scenery.

Applejack caught up with the two as she bid her final words before her task ahead, “Alright now, clearly Summer isn’t out here yet, so if Twilight doesn’t see her before the guests stop-a coming, I’ll find her inside for you Rainbow.”

Rainbow had a sort of sinking feeling all of a sudden, forcing her to say, “You really think so? I mean, the Gala’s enormous, and you’re just one pony,” wincing at putting her friend down like that.

Applejack just smiled smugly and reassured her friend, “Like my Granny Smith once said, ‘One lone ranger can see what the whole frontier cavalry cannot’.” (Cite: TAK-Chronicles of Darien, Mission 33 Intro: One Quiet Man – Troiss, Uru Warrior) That was the first Granny Smith quote Rainbow found to be rather deep.n Applejack then added a supporting possibility, “Besides, I’m sure Rarity’s doing her part,” switching to a mumble as she rolled her eyes, “provided she ain’t with that Tux stallion that is.”

That last little statement was not quite reassuring, she realized, so she added again, “But like I said, I’ll keep an eye on her as well; one on you, the other on her. Everything will be just fine tonight.”

Finally she put a hoof to Rainbow’s shoulder and offered her a comforting smile. That one act managed to shine forth the honesty in everything she had just said. Applejack winked and went back inside to run her search for Summer Breeze. Thus the second station was established and their scout had begun sweeping the premises.

As Applejack was exploring the ballroom, looking out for anypony, mare in particular, who had a similar colors to herself, Rarity had been enjoying the company of the rich and sophisticated. Suddenly, in the midst of hilarious conversation, something struck Rarity from the corner of her sight. It was a single file line of musicians she had never seen, except for one. It was Octavia Melody, leading the line to the back for her later performance tonight. Rarity had to excuse herself from her group and catch up with the cellist.

“Octavia!” she called out, “yoo-hoo!” This had not escaped Octavia’s careful ear, as she turned her head to see the one calling to her.

“Rarity! How is my designer friend?”

“Quite well, thank you,” Rarity answered. “New band I see?”

Octavia looked behind to see her musicians waiting, so waving a hoof in dismissal, she said to them, “Get you now to the rehearsal room in back, I shall be with you all in five minutes.”

She turned back to Rarity and smiled saying, “Why yes. I had decided it wasn’t enough for me to merely indulge my talents by being but a member of a band. It was difficult for me to part with fellow players, with whom I have had a personal as well as professional relationship, but I felt it was time for me to start teaching others. Sharing my talent, as it were.”

Rarity slowly nodded in appreciation, “That’s quite admirable of you Octavia, and to see your students at the Gala…well I can only imagine how confident you must be in them.”

Octavia snorted proudly at the notion, “Indeed I am. They’ve all worked so hard,” closing her eyes for emphasis, and then opened to resume, “and I feel they are most prepared for tonight.”

Rarity had yet another opportunity to influence the course of this night, she thought. She tried her luck again and asked, “Might your ensemble be playing the Prélude de Amour Pour la Vie [Change name later?] tonight?”

Octavia smiled little more in response, “Quite on the flame tonight, aren’t you Miss Belle? Yes again. It should be our third piece tonight.”

The excitement that the piece she wanted was playing and the disappointment on its place in program had neutralized in Rarity. Neutral became nervous as Rarity’s silence filled the space between herself and the cellist.

Third musical number could still work, but Rarity had to try and ask, “Would you be willing to make it the first?”

Octavia tilted her head at this request, and then looked down to consider.

It hadn’t taken long until her face rose back up saying, “Well Princesses Celestia and Luna had not forced my hoof on any particular arrangement. I’d also hate to bring an end to your winning yes’s from me. So yes,” grinning to reveal dazzling white teeth, “I will tell my band that we’ll be switching the pieces playing.”

She then looked back with a cunning look, “May even be good for them to shake things up a bit.”

Both Rarity and Octavia chuckled at the last thought. Rarity toyed with the idea during their laughing that somewhere in Octavia’s mind, she might have been laughing maniacally What a silly image, Rarity was thinking.

“Now if you don’t mind Rarity,” Octavia said, “I must get to the band, last chance for practice and all. We will be on stage in two hours.”

Rarity nodded, shared a hug with Octavia, and as Rarity walked away feeling satisfied, she heard the cellist saying, “I know you’re playing matchmaker again!”

She paused in her tracks, looked back, seeing Octavia still walking away. Smiling, she carried on and returned to her richer circle. Why if things continued working in her favor, she might just have a chance with that Tux fellow, though she did have to keep on being a team player for her friends, particularly Rainbow Dash.

During that time, Applejack had walked just about every tile not covered with party guests and tables. No sign once so ever of an orange mare with a yellow mane, beside herself. There might have been one pony of that description, but that was a colt she saw, also darker than she was shown on Rarity’s charts.

Speaking of which, “Where is Rarity,” she wondered to herself.

Applejack by that time had decided it was time to use that other eye of hers and see what her uptight designer pal was up to now. She scanned the ballroom until she spotted her. She seemed to be having quite a fun time with ponies more up to her speed.

“Why that prissy little…!” Applejack mumbled to herself, growing angry at the thought of Rarity taking no interest in Rainbow Dash’s feelings.

She had to keep her cool though, so she walked over calmly to Rarity. Oh she was having quite a good time, Applejack observed, as she hissed, “Hey, Rare, what do you think you’re doing?”

Rarity felt exposed to the cold, as she looked at what seemed like only a minutely bothered friend, but knew there was more. The rest of Rarity’s peers glared at Applejack, pondering as to the cause of her rudeness.

“Real friends always more important,” Rarity thought. She then turned to her mere acquaintances saying, “If you’ll excuse me, I have something to which I must attend again, be back shortly.”

She walked away and joined with Applejack. They both went to a more open space to talk.

Rarity turned to Applejack, who with squinting eyes, said, “Having a hoot now, ain’t you?” Rarity giggled nervously saying, “I know what you’re thinking, dear, but it’s not what it looks like.”

Applejack leaned in and said, “It looks like Fluttershy’s hiding in a lamp, I’m stalking somepony I don’t know, and RD is waiting outside depending on her friends, all of her friends.”

Rarity was about to speak, but Applejack pointed her hoof which robbed Rarity’s voice, “And what are you doing? Is this here what you call monitoring?”

Rarity’s blood began to boil at the insinuations Applejack was making of her. She decided then to rise up to the crude image Applejack seemed to hold to her.

She then said, as calmly as possible, if it were possible, “For your information, Jacqueline, I had just struck an agreement with Octavia to have her band play Prélude de Amour Pour la Vie [Change name later?] at the beginning of their performance tonight!”

Applejack didn’t seem to get the big deal, so Rarity readily explained, “It is a choice, excellent piece, perfect for Rainbow’s first dance, perfect for setting the right mood!”

Applejack was becoming convinced at least of the concept being presented, but Rarity felt the need to go on, “All Rainbow Dash has to do when Octavia’s band gets on stage is ask Summer to dance. If Summer says ‘Yes’, I’ve got them set up with a tune to which Dash is already familiar with. If ‘No’, well it really doesn’t matter.”

Something had just occurred to Applejack then, “‘Already familiar’? You wouldn’t be talking about that sweet tune you was humming back on the train, would you?”

Rarity nodded, and then as a confirmation that all said prior was the truth, she took a hoof to her eye. It may have been an contraction of a Pinkie promise, but the simple gesture would still been just as binding.

Applejack hardly knew what to say except, “Oh, I see,” feeling somewhat embarrassed.

Rarity wore then a sad face as she said, “Really AJ, sometimes I feel you don’t give me enough credit. I can be honest too you know?”

Applejack was struck with guilt, having assumed the worst of her friend, if she could even consider herself a friend in return.

Rarity tried to ease her friend’s heavy heart saying, “Oh don’t be like that now, darling. You are just as eager to make this Rainbow’s night as I am, but you have to trust me.”

This managed to make Applejack feel better as she continued, “Now back to your station! Perhaps being closer to the exit, I can scan this half of the Gala while you keep an eye on the other. I’ll keep you posted!”

To this Applejack huffed through her nostrils and said, “Always underestimating you Rare,” and with a wink, she made her way to search the gardens.

It had been about twenty minutes since being left with Pinkie Pie in the botanical gardens and Rainbow Dash was starting to get cold hoofs. The Sun had almost ceased to shine in the West and the Luna’s stars started making their appearance from the dark East. Pinkie had been gorging on cake in the meantime. She then waved somepony in the distance greeting them, causing the nervous Rainbow to spin around hesitantly. It was just Applejack, having no expression to indicate her goal had been accomplished.

She approached the same with a lowered head asking, “Not here yet, is she?”

Applejack shook her head answering, “Nope, haven’t seen her inside. I reckon neither Pinkie nor Fluttershy have seen her out here yet, huh?”

Rainbow only shook her head, as disappointment robbed her voice.

“Hey now, come on there, partner,” Applejack said, “I’ll be looking out here now, though I’m positive Summer’s still waiting to get in. And you know what also?”

Rainbow perked her ears up at this question as Applejack continued, “Rarity’s got you set up with a might sweet melody. First in line tonight, so all you gotta do is ask Summer.”

Rainbow looked away in doubt asking, “What if she says ‘No’?” wincing at the last word.

Suddenly she felt her face pulled forward by a hoof, as Applejack gave a stern look saying, “Now look here! You’re going to meet her tonight, have a nice chat, and when Octavia’s band starts performing on stage, you will ask Summer to dance,” drawing her face closer to Rainbow’s, “and mark my words, here and now, she will say ‘Yes’. You hear?”

After a mere nod of Rainbow’s head, Applejack excused herself and began scouting through the vast gardens.

It only took a few minutes after Applejack left that the Sun finally was seen no more and the dark sky glittered with the stars. As the Full Moon rose quickly in the East, the white rays emanating had transformed the gardens into such an enchanting scene.

Pinkie Pie, looking all around, then exclaimed, “Wow! Princess Luna really out did herself this time, huh Dashie?!” but she heard no response, which had alarmed her for some reason. She turned around to look for Rainbow Dash, only to find her sitting at the base of a heart-shaped fountain. She looked depressed, alone, even empty.

Pinkie approached Rainbow slowly asking, “What’s wrong Dashie?” Rainbow just kept staring at the ground. She took a deep breath in, then out, and finally answered, “We’re really doing this tonight,” and after a moment of silence she amended, “I am really doing this tonight.”

Despite her eyes expressing concern, Pinkie brought forth a smile, saying, “Aww, does somepony still have the crushy-wushy heebie-jeebies.”

She then gave the biggest smile to Rainbow, certain of its ability to change anypony’s mood. Nothing happened, however. Pinkie then rushed over to the dessert stand and came back quick as she could with something to cheer her friend up.

“How about some cake? Everypony loves cake! Just ask Princess Celestia,” Pinkie said with much jollity. Rainbow just shrugged, indicating she wasn’t too in the mood for much of anything. This was going to take more than her usual tricks, Pinkie came to realize. She had to get inside Rainbow’s head if she was going to make any progress.

Meanwhile, back at the entrance to the Gala celebration, Princesses Twilight and Celestia were still greeting guests. They came in groups of six, parting in half as they passed the Princesses after their welcome. It had been the twentieth greeting Twilight gave, or maybe thirtieth, thirty-second? She had lost count. As enthusiastic as she was in appearance, inside Twilight had been on the verge of distress. She tried toying with the thought that maybe Applejack had spotted Summer Breeze and told Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie or that the two had already bumped into her in the gardens and Dash was having a great time. Wouldn’t she have been informed of this, however, by either Applejack or even Rarity? There was no mention of that in the plan.

As she continued receiving in party guests, her heart sorrowed for her friend Rainbow, praying earnestly that this be her best night ever like she had hoped. Twilight then sensed the presence of somepony approaching her from behind. Turning her head, she saw it was Rarity, but not in excitement, but in concern herself.

Twilight turned around slightly as Rarity whispered, “You haven’t seen her yet, have you?”

Twilight just shook her head, but Rarity persisted, “No mare of any orange complexion?” putting away the more specific color target.

Twilight answered in hushed tone, “I haven’t even seen a blonde yet.”

Princess Celestia couldn’t help but notice the quiet talk between the two mares, as she leaned her head in asking, “Is everything alright, Twilight?”

Shock overtook Twilight and Rarity at this, so in an act of emergency, Twilight answered, “Oh no, everything’s fine, your Highness,” turning back to Rarity.

They nodded to each other and Rarity went back inside. Princess Celestia was getting suspicious, for Twilight had not addressed her so formally in quite some time, nor at this point in her life even ought to have been. Needing more data, however, the Princess of the Sun simply passed it off for the time being and continued taking in her guests.

Back in the botanical gardens, Pinkie Pie had taken seat next to a gloomy Rainbow Dash, taking a moment to determine what to say next. The pegasus looked as though she had just received a death sentence with acceptance, or perhaps more in surrender.

For want of something clever to say, Pinkie Pie insisted, “Come on Dashie, this is your big night. You should be happy!” then frowning at the sight of Rainbow’s state, “Why aren’t you happy?” (Cite: DisneyFanatic2364’s Bride of Discord; Chapter Two – The Gala)

Rainbow Dash simply dismissed her saying, “I doubt you’d really understand, Pinkie.” Pinkie looked down like Rainbow did, trying to get some perspective of what her friend was feeling. She then scooched in closer saying,

“Well, I can try, can’t I?” It was only then Rainbow felt the sting of her cruelty towards Pinkie, closing herself off the way she was. She decided then to open up a little saying,

“It’s just, it’s so easy to,” then tried to mimic Rarity accent, “admire from afar.” then continued regularly, “but this is like getting real now, Pinkie.” Pinkie listened intently, sensing she was finally getting somewhere with her pal. Rainbow resumed, “In less than an hour, guessing, I’ll be standing before Summer Breeze, and…” Rainbow hesitated, but Pinkie kept her silence, waiting for her to go on. “…and I have only one shot at this! No amount of practice or skill can better the odds. It all comes down to her saying either ‘Yes’ or ‘No’.”

Pinkie had no ready response to Rainbow’s anxiety, so thinking fast, she searched the sky, just hoping to find some aid. After only a minute of watching the skies, Pinkie Pie shouted,

“Rainbow, Rainbow! Look quick!” pointing a hoof straight up. Rainbow thrust her gaze in surprise, then noticed at what Pinkie was seeing. Pinkie then said as fast as she could, “Shooting Star! Hurry, make a wish!”

Without a moment to consider, Rainbow closed her eyes and thought hard to herself. Pinkie kept looking at the glimmering spec racing through the night sky until it vanished. She then shook Rainbow out of her thoughts saying,

“I already have an idea of what you wished for. Just don’t say it and it will come true!” Rainbow went from shocked to skeptical and said,

“I don’t know if even a shooting star can help me tonight.” Pinkie took a hoof to her mouth aghast at what was just said. She lowered her hoof slowly as she said, still clinging to hope,

“But…Luna’s Blessing.”

“Luna’s Blessing is just an old pony tale. Imagine all the letters she gets for wishes not granted.”

Immense disappointment overtook Pinkie Pie. She certainly didn’t think it wise to get into a debate over the efficacy of Luna’s wish granting powers. Pinkie just leaned her head on Rainbow’s shoulder, feeling powerless to console her friend.

Applejack kept up the search the inside, walking around a bit, stopping on occasion to look around. Rarity also, having abandoned her social aspirations, kept her eyes open as well for Rainbow’s crush. They bumped into each other every so often to share looks of defeat. During that time as well, Fluttershy had kept herself nestled in the metal framing of the chandelier overlooking arrivals, staring down on Twilight. Every five minutes or so, however, Twilight just looked up gently shaking her head. Fluttershy had even seen Rarity visit Twilight, giving her obvious signs that the mare they were seeking hadn’t come yet. Much like her regal friend below, Fluttershy’s heart too began aching at the thought of the disappointment Rainbow would feel if this Summer Breeze really wasn’t showing up. Not to mention she was actually getting bored! Boredom had not been much a part of her life experience, but she in Canterlot during one of the happiest nights of the year, and she was hiding in a light fixture.

After a moment of self-reflection, however, it dawned on her the presence of this selfish attitude slowly building up inside. She managed to shake it off and carefully creep her way to the other side of the chandelier, deciding to go back and forth occasionally. Maybe she’d get a chance to recognize a mare of Summer’s description, including Rarity’s best guess on the colors she’d likely wear, even before reaching the front of the line to meet Twilight. It might have been a slight deviation from Rarity’s plan, but she would do anything at this point to see her best friend happy tonight.

Back in the gardens, Pinkie Pie rose her head from Rainbow Dash’s shoulder, still feeling helpless to lift her friend from her hopeless state. No amount of cake would make Pinkie feel better about this whole situation.

Sensing the need to explore more, she said, “Dashie, you and I are friends,” then proceeding to ask, “just tell me what’s really bothering you.”

Yielding to Pinkie’s point on them being friends, Rainbow answered, “Well, it’s not just dancing for fun tonight. Asking Summer to dance with me here at the Gala is the start of asking for more. At least that’s what I want, but what if she doesn’t?!”

Pinkie blinked in a curious expression, urging Rainbow to go on.

“What if she doesn’t like me back?”

Pinkie then returned a caring face and said, “I don’t see how she wouldn’t. I mean, I would like you.”

Rainbow rolled her eyes and turned herself away on the fountain they were sitting.

“You know what I mean,” she clarified to her silly friend who more often than not mixed connotation every few sentences she heard. Pinkie pulled back hard at Rainbow to face her as she smiled brightly.

“No-no no-no!” she asserted, as her face nearly touched Rainbow’s, “I really mean it! I really, really, REALLY would like you Dashie!!!”

Rainbow stared back in shock at the outright declaration. Pinkie did not blink, but maintained her happy expression.

“Sweet Celestia on her throne,” Rainbow thought, “is she…being serious?”

For the moment, Rainbow had forgotten her forlorn state, and had to find out more about what was just said to her.

Scooching away then from Pinkie, Rainbow cautiously asked, “What are you talking about?”

Finally blinking, Pinkie let out a giggle, snort, then with a roll of her gaze upward, said, “Well…” then looked back to her, “if I was into mares like you are, you’d totally be my first choice!”

Rainbow’s eyes widened, taking a moment to absorb what Pinkie professed without the slightest hesitation. To think that she had ever considered liking her that way. All she could say was, “Really?”

Pinkie nodded, hummed in the positive, and said, “Absolutely! I mean you’re super-duper brave, always a big help to the community, not to mention loyal to all your friends…”

She then leaned in and whispered, “an appealing trait, if you ask me,” then resuming at normal volume, “and you have to be like the awesomest big sister to Scootaloo even though you’re not really. Not to mention…” Pinkie leaned in once again to whisper, “you are very handsome tonight.”

Rainbow blushed mildly at the same compliment made before by Rarity after her quick groom. A smile finally began to come out on her face, but Pinkie had more to say.

“Trust me Dashie, I know Breezy,” Pinkie said, giggling a moment at the apparent rhymes she was making, “and you are totally her type!”

At long last, Rainbow Dash was beaming as she asked, “You really think so?!”

Pinkie then threw a hoof over her shoulder, pulled her in, and said with intensity, “Stick with me Dashie, and I’ll show you off like no tomorrow. Wait! If there’s no tomorrow, how will you ever date Summer after the Gala tonight? Maybe I can ease off on th…”

Pinkie voice faded out in Rainbow ears, as she found peace in herself again. She began to review to herself on what Fluttershy had said about attitude, reestablishing confidence within herself.

No big deal she tried to tell herself, “She’s just another pony and everything will be just fine.” That’s what Rainbow had to keep telling herself.

How many folds of guests had passed by? Only Princess Celestia would know. Twilight had begun concluding to herself that this was a lost cause. It had been made clear by Rarity’s last visit that if Summer Breeze was already inside, she would have been told. Rarity would have even waved at Fluttershy signaling her to not stay cooped up above. All Twilight could do was be patient. Quite frankly, she almost didn’t care anymore, almost, as a big part of her just wanted this greeting of party attendants to be over and done with already. Maybe had she eaten more, against Rarity’s rigid dietary program set up for her, she wouldn’t feel so tired; however, even if she had consumed more calories earlier, this whole ordeal would have still been highly taxing on her nerves. Only about thirty minutes more, or hopefully fifteen instead, and she could rest from this more ceremonial role she was playing as a Princess.

Twilight almost felt like yawning, as yet another fold stepped forward, stretching back a hoof to welcome the guests inside as Princess Celestia verbally greeted them. She was indeed getting exhausted. As the next fold of six stepped forward, however, Twilight’s eyes snapped open as adrenalin rushed through her body. Could that really…? Time seemed to slow as the guests stepped forward, one of whom, straight in front of her, caught her eyes. Twilight examined every detail she could with her studious mind. The mare was wearing brown sandals, out of which emerged yellow/orange legs. The color of her visible coat was almost the same as seen in a fire. Rather long legs too, Twilight thought. Her eyes continued up and found Rarity’s estimations to be quite spot on. The mare wore a fine dress bearing the colors dark teal, smalt blue, cerulean, even one color of which Rarity hadn’t mentioned: Yakyakistani fair blue. The dress even had fine gold trimmings, she saw.

As time still slowed to a crawl, as Twilight’s sight continued traveling up to see her smiling face, but her eyes were closed. “Buck!” was the word on Twilight’s mind. Closed eyes were a personal sign of respect towards royalty for some ponies, but she needed to see them opened! There was no room for any error, Twilight determined; she needed to make absolute, positive identification. As she looked around her face, however, another big sign glowed before her. The mare’s mane was a vibrant yellow, shining almost like the sun. Clearly it had been styled specially for the Grand Galloping Gala tonight, as her lengthy mane draped down as tubes of curls. Her eyes would not be seen until after she bowed.

With that in mind, and Twilight’s sense of time flowed back to normal, Princess Celestia said the greeting once again, “Welcome to the Grand Galloping Gala, please enjoy the night,” as the six guests bowed.

Twilight had taken the time also to notice dust at the edge of the one mare’s dress, the same kind made when kicking up dirt while prancing outside. After having learned Summer Breeze’s apparent hobbies, she felt this was another vital clue.

As the six newly arrived guests rose up, Twilight’s heart beat fast as she focused in on the mare’s face. Her eyelids opened slowly as she neared straightening back up with a smile. There they were, the right eyes, light blue eyes, Summer Sky eyes… they were Summer Breeze’s eyes! Oh, Twilight had the right mare standing right in front of her! As this mare, Summer Breeze apparently, was passing from the left side, Twilight couldn’t help but acknowledge to herself that Pinkie was quite right. She was really pretty. Not that Twilight would go that way herself, but she was able to see how a mare like her could catch Rainbow Dash’s eyes. Then she remembered: Rainbow! Fluttershy! Chandelier! She thrust her sights above seeing Fluttershy, who thankfully was seen in her original spot in the light fixture. Twilight with an open smile of excitement winked to Fluttershy once, twice, even thrice! She certainly wasn’t sleepy anymore!

Fluttershy from above perceived Twilight’s enthralled signal.

She then said to herself, “Oh my goodness, she found Summer!” feeling almost triumphant herself, “Oh Rainbow’s going to be so happy!”

She had to stop herself from getting lost in her heightened state of emotions and flew off as quickly and secretly as she could from the chandelier and find Rarity first, she figured. Fluttershy’s subtle flight above was not lost to Princess Celestia, however, as more suspicion churned in her mind.

As the next fold of six made their approach, she took the moment and lean down to Twilight asking, “Why do I sense a conspiracy?”

Twilight chuckled at the question and answered, “I’ll tell you later tonight,” looking back up. Princess Celestia cocked an eyebrow, carefully reading Twilight’s face. She knew a villainous face when she saw it, but failed to find such in her young friend and former student. Satisfied for now with Twilight’s word, the two continued on receiving in more attendants to the jollities inside.

As the search for a mare even remotely close to Summer Breeze’s description carried on, Rarity’s efforts have diminished slightly, attempting to enjoy the night herself. She hadn’t given up entirely, however, as she assimilated herself in various social groups, mingled, and excused herself periodically to check up on Twilight, Applejack, and Pinkie Pie. She especially concerned herself with what Pinkie would make mention of regarding Rainbow Dash when, if rather, they met with this Summer character. She even gave further guidance to Rainbow on the best location around which to dance: About thirty paces away from the Alicorn Statue. There she found the acoustics most favorable and Rarity would do whatever she could to make sure the space was available for Rainbow and Summer.

She managed to keep a vigilant eye out for the orange mare, even in the midst of her socializing with the elite. Rarity was there for her friend Rainbow Dash, and nopony else, she vowed to herself, until a certain stallion had made his way into the same group of ponies in which Rarity infused herself. He was a white unicorn in a black tuxedo, under which ran a straight tie. A crimson red rose was seen emerging from his breast pocket to compliment the suit. His mane was, like his attire, black and combed straight to one side, medium length. Rarity couldn’t tell if it was merely in her infatuated mind, but she could have sworn his mane even shined.

Upon being seen, the small group of ponies welcomed the stallion, who took notice himself of one unicorn mare with whom he had not yet been acquainted.

He reached out a gentle hoof to Rarity and said, “And good evening to you as well Miss…” urging her to finish his sentence.

Without missing a beat, she said, “Belle, Miss Rarity Belle. And you must be Snazzy Tux! Fancy has told me about you and your profession.”

He smiled at Rarity’s recognition of him, revealing a somewhat imperfect set of teeth, which he made up for, in her mind, by his charming accent.

He chuckled at the mention of Fancy saying, “Ah, my brother! Poor devil must have run out of things to say to have used me as a topic of conversation.”

Rarity couldn’t tell if that statement was humble, haughty, or a little of both. Either way they both shared a soft laugh with the group. His eyes squinted after as the collective laugh ended, as something had just occurred to him.

He turned back to his new acquaintance saying, “Wait…Miss Rarity Belle,” placing an emphasis on her first name, “not the same Rarity running Canterlot Carousel!”

She confirmed with a fluttering of her eyes, attempting also to draw his interest in her. “Indeed I am,” Rarity answered, “it’s managed by my dear friend, Sassy Saddles, but I own it, yes. I personally run my own boutique back in Ponyville.”

Snazzy was quite impressed, imagining this fashion designer operating in such a rural community, making it to the top, and open a store in Canterlot! He also noticed Rarity’s ensemble, taking into account the mind and talent she must have had. This sparked a conversation between the two and in a moment’s time they took the spotlight in their group.

Fluttershy had flown only a short time before deciding to continue by hoof. She begged pardon constantly as she weaved through the crowds inside, desperate to fulfill her role. She had to look for Rarity first, she felt, seeing her to be the obvious ringleader of this whole operation.

A voice suddenly called out as she wandered, “Fluttershy!”

She peeped and turned quickly to her right, finding Applejack galloping towards her. She calmed quickly seeing it was somepony she knew.

Containing her eagerness, Applejack came up close to speak above a whisper, “I reckon you and Twilight found her?!”

Fluttershy made a gleeful face as she nodded and said, “We did, AJ!” Applejack then turned around, poising herself to sprint for the gardens. Turning her face back on Fluttershy,

Applejack said, “Well then let’s go tell RD and Pinkie!”

She didn’t take even five steps, however, before Fluttershy yelped, “No wait!”

Applejack stopped abruptly, turning back as Fluttershy continued, “I really think we should find Rarity first, quickly too!” then looking discouraged, “but I can’t seem to find her anywhere.”

“Oh consarnit, Flutters!” Applejack softly exclaimed, “Can’t you just, I don’t know, hover on above and find her that way?”

Fluttershy ducked and blushed, remaining silent. Not wanting them to waste any time finding out why Fluttershy was going by hoof, instead wing, Applejack shrugged and sighed.

“Well so long as you’re looking for Rare, I might as well tag along too,” she offered, as curiosity forced her to wonder on what Rarity was up to right now. The two then began their frantic search together.

Rarity had felt quite popular as she regaled her new peers with the story behind Canterlot Carousel’s beginnings. They all shared the hilarity in how she felt forced to satisfy two hundred Princess Dress orders. The number of orders completed in such a short time frame had also impressed Rarity’s listeners.

After she had reached the climax of her tale struggle, Snazzy had to inquire, “You mean to tell us that after tireless work in opening one of the most exclusive shops in Canterlot…you were willing to let it go out of business?!”

Rarity blushed at the phrase most exclusive shops and said, “Well, it’s more than just a business, you see. This is my passion, Mister Tux, and to see it robbed of its value, I simply could not let it go on.”

Snazzy and the rest nodded in admiration of Rarity’s expressed principles.

“Plus I felt it was just the shake Sassy needed,” Rarity said and laughed.

This won the amusement of her peers.

Applejack and Fluttershy had finally found Rarity, who seemed to be having quite a good time, to Applejack’s displeasure. She shrugged it off, however, seeing that the long awaited next stage of the plan was about to happen. The two approached Rarity from behind and Applejack tapped on Rarity’s rump. This rude gesture sent a shock wave up Rarity’s spine, causing her to spin around, only to see the two of her friends. She blushed as Applejack gave her a raised eyebrow expressing disappointment, only then to notice the pony next to her.

“Fluttershy?” Rarity asked, then continued quieter, “You found Summer?!”

Fluttershy smiled and nodded again saying, “Yes Rarity, she’s here!”

Rarity withheld the delight to double check, “Did you get a good look her?”

Fluttershy looked away and answered, “um, Not really, not from my angle, but Twilight saw her directly. She winked at me three times, so she must be certain.”

Rarity was satisfied to hear that, but one thought struck her, as she asked, “But where is she now?!”

Fluttershy’s optimistic expression turned blank, then worried, as she answered, “Oh, I…I don’t know,” taking refuge behind her mane.

Applejack then shared in Fluttershy’s embarrassment. Rarity planted a hoof to her face, then after sighing in exasperation said, “Well we have to find her then!” She turned contritely towards her new friend Snazzy saying, “Do forgive Mister Tux, but I have a prior obligation to settle for a friend. I’m ever so sorry,” lowering her head expressing shame.

Snazzy waved a hoof to dismiss Rarity’s apologetic self and said, “Don’t be, my dear Miss Belle! We’ll be looking forward to your return.”

Thus feeling she had her status firmly fixed, she smiled, and went off with Applejack and Fluttershy to find where their objective target.

Indeed, this was one factor Rarity had missed, which vexed her immensely. She should have told Fluttershy to get to Rainbow Dash and Pinkie in the gardens immediately.

The irritation only grew as Applejack criticized her, “‘Trust me’ you said, Rare! Isn’t that what you told me to do? But there you were at it again, living the night out, doing your own thing. And wasn’t that Snazzy Tux I saw you with a moment ago? It was, wasn’t he?”

Rarity hissed through clenched teeth and said, “Well I’m here now aren’t I?! All we have to do is find that mare and our scheme will be back on track.”

Fluttershy was cringing at the heat bellowing between her friends.

Wishing it to stop, she asked, “So what’s the plan now Rarity?”

Taking her mind off Applejack’s reproach, Rarity answered, “After we find Summer, you Fluttershy will report to Rainbow and Pinkie. Applejack,” yielding not in the slightest to her glare, “you will be waiting near the entrance of the botanical gardens keeping an eye on Summer, ready to point her out when Rainbow and Pinkie come back in.”

Applejack liked the revised plan so far, but asked flatly, “And you Rare?”

Rarity sighed hard and said, “I suppose I’ll pass by and compliment Rainbow on her suit!”

Applejack sneered at this and asked, “That’s all?”

Rarity then declared outright, still above a whisper, “It’s not the means that matter, Jacqueline, but the end for which we strive. Just do it!”

Applejack said nothing, realizing Rarity’s point. She swallowed her pride and went on with Rarity and Fluttershy searching.

Guests were still coming in folds before the Princesses and Twilight was feeling bored again. Eager was more like it, for she had fulfilled her part in finding Summer Breeze. Having only tasted a bit of satisfaction in seeing that mare pass by her earlier, she longed to see the fruition of Rarity’s plot. This whole greeting line was taking much longer than she remembered. She needed an escape from this. She recalled how she was about to yawn earlier, so perhaps she could use one at that very moment. As the fold of six came forth and Princess Celestia imparted her welcome, Twilight took a hoof to her mouth, and faking then a medium sized yawn. Twilight focused in on the right side of her vision and knew Princess Celestia had noticed.

She gave an innocent look saying, “Oh, I’m sorry Princess.”

As the guests passed by, Princess Celestia leaned down to Twilight, and said, “Why don’t you head inside now for some tea. I will handle the rest.”

Twilight returned a bashful nodded and pranced inside. It seemed the Princess of the Sun had taken her bate. Unbeknownst to Twilight, however, there was scarce ever anything new under the Sun, as Princess Celestia’s suspicions grew all the more.

Not every mare was wearing a fancy dress at the Gala, so that helped narrow down the search. Still though, the ballroom was big, and for all Applejack, Fluttershy, and Rarity knew, Summer Breeze might have moved on into the botanical gardens. This was to Rainbow’s benefit, Rarity theorized, thinking that if she and her two friends failed to find Summer inside, she would simply go to Rainbow, easy! What if Pinkie Pie didn’t catch her, however? Still Summer Breeze, being a friend, might simply walk up to Pinkie. Maybe then Applejack should be getting into the gardens now, Rarity thought. No! Her negligence tonight had lost her too much control of the situation. As the she wandered the ballroom with Applejack and Fluttershy, she and they had heard a voice calling,

“Girls!” At once all three mares turned towards the direction of the voice. It was Twilight, who after coming closer, explained, “I managed to slip away from all the hoof shaking,” then with a brightened expression asked, “So is Summer with Rainbow yet?”

Applejack, Fluttershy, and Rarity said nothing, but only showed guilty faces.

“What happened?!” Twilight asked hastily.

Rarity was the first to respond, daring not to look Twilight in the eyes, “We sort of…lost her.”

“You did what?!” Twilight said, shyly below a yell.

Fluttershy feared the blame, but took it as she explained how she looked for Rarity first. Applejack then started complaining on Rarity’s laziness. Rarity maintained that she had been playing her part with making arrangements with Octavia and keeping the whole situation under control, until recently. A fight was seen coming as a sudden storm. Before it could last even a minute, Twilight whispered harshly, “Girls, girls, girls!” and like a soaked blanket over a fire, the fight was extinguished.

What could have turned to a heated exchange of harsh words was replaced to worry and panic on part of the Rarity, Applejack, and Fluttershy. They had made a commitment to Rainbow Dash, but the chances of success seemed so long gone.

Twilight then addressed her friends, “Alright girls, just follow my lead,” as she took a hoof to her chest breathing in, and then exhaled as she extended the same hoof out. The others followed the same exercise, which managed to bring some sense of calm.

“So,” she continued, “what are we doing now?”

Applejack spoke quick, “All we’re trying for now is to find her in this here hootenanny.”

Twilight nodded and looked around from where she stood saying, “I see, well has anypony checked the botani…!” Twilight’s voice froze, as did her neck. “Girls, steer right, now!” as she speedily swung to her left.

The others turned to face the direction Twilight was facing, causing Fluttershy to ask, “What are we looking for?”

Twilight said quietly and cautiously, “One at a time, she’s right behind us!”

The eye of Applejack, Rarity, and Fluttershy widened upon hearing that and held their ground.

“Fluttershy,” Twilight continued even quieter, inciting Fluttershy to peek behind at a lone, brightly colored mare dressed dark, who simply seemed to be taking wonder in the atmosphere of the Gala.

“Applejack,” Twilight said keeping to the same volume.

After catching a glimpse, Applejack held in a giggle as she uttered softly, “Nope, not like me!”

Twilight said, “Now you Rarity.”

Rarity looked back, noticing not only how lovely the dress complimented her coat, but also the length of her legs. She turned back forward and concluded to Twilight quietly,

“My…I guess Rainbow really does like tall mares,” and then giggled to herself. The four had finally located Summer Breeze, again. Well it was actually just Twilight who found again; regardless, they had their mare of interest in range.

Having just arrived herself onto the scene, Twilight had assumed a Plan B was already in place after losing Summer the first time. With that possibility in mind, Twilight asked, “So what’s the next step Rarity.” Rarity turned to Twilight surprised by the question. Sensing this, she clarified, “Yes, I’m passing the rein back to you. Next step?”

Feeling a certain sense of redemption, Rarity thought a moment, and then said, “Right! Fluttershy, you tell Rainbow and Pinkie that Summer Breeze is here, but wait five minutes for her to settle in more. Applejack, you know your part. Keep an eye on her, so when Rainbow comes back inside, you can point her out. And remember: Lasso!” using that last key word to remind Applejack on pull back Pinkie Pie at the right time. Applejack was about to inquire as to Rarity’s part again, stopped, deciding it was better to pay more mind to her tasks. Fortunately, however, Rarity satisfied her unspoken question, “And I’ll do whatever I can this time, behind the scenes, as it were.”

Twilight was pleased to see her friends cooperating once again, but then inquired herself, “And what should I do?”

“I believe you and I have something to discuss,” a soft voice came from behind Twilight and her three friends. She turned around to find Princess Celestia, bearing a look of neutrality. Twilight went from a shocked expression to a calm smile.

“Of course, Celestia, let’s go,” then turning to her friends, Twilight said, “We’ll meet up later tonight.”

The rest nodded back, as Fluttershy softly declared in a giggle, “You really are our gyroscope Twilight!” This won a big grin from the purple alicorn.

“Gyroscope?” Princess Celestia asked, not quite getting the reference.

Twilight giggled and said, “I’ll tell you all about Celestia,” sealing her honest words with a wink. With all matters accounted, Princesses Celestia and Twilight went away to talk, and the three mares Rarity, Applejack, and Fluttershy relaunched their operation.

As Rarity went to work, doing anything she could to bolster Rainbow Dash’s reputation, Fluttershy and Applejack were trotting over in the direction of the gardens. Applejack kept looking back to make sure she didn’t lose sight of Summer Breeze. Lucky enough, now that she had a glimpse of the mare, Summer was quite distinctive from the rest of the ponies inside. The two stopped about three quarters a distance between Summer and the exit leading out into the gardens. With Applejack in position, she nodded to Fluttershy and raised a high hoof to her. Fluttershy grinned excitingly, returning the high hoof, then galloped on outside. It didn’t take her too long to find Rainbow and Pinkie. They seemed to both be in high spirits laughing. Over what, she could find out later.

She trotted over repeating, “Rainbow, Rainbow, Rainbow!” catching the attention of both Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie.

Upon reaching the two, Fluttershy was jogging in place, unable to contain her delight. Pinkie was so glad to see Fluttershy so ecstatic. Rainbow had mixed feelings, however, in both what her presence meant and her highly unusual energetic self. It was as though Fluttershy’s personality reflected Pinkie Pie’s own.

“Fluttershy?!” was all Rainbow could say.

Immediately, the other pegasus was found hovering a shy over her height as she softly exclaimed, “Oh Rainbow, she’s here! Summer’s finally here!”

Rainbow smiled as Pinkie pulled her close saying, “Right! Come on, let’s go Dashie!” Naught but a few steps were taken before Fluttershy said,

“Wait!” The two stopped, confused at her plea.

“Um, Rarity said to wait five minutes before approaching Summer. We don’t want to pounce on her after all,” Fluttershy explained, signing off the relayed message with a shy grin.

Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes and smiled, concurring with Rarity’s logic. Pinkie thought it over with a hoof to her chin and said,

“I guess she has point.”

She then pulled out her stopwatch and set it for five minutes. After lowering herself back down to the ground, Fluttershy first leaped to hug Pinkie, and then gave Rainbow a much tighter embrace, especially in her wings.

After about five warm seconds, she finally let go, backed away, and said, “um, I have to go now. You see, Rarity wants us to keep our distance a while.”

After Rainbow nodded in understanding, Fluttershy said as she walked away, “Good luck Rainbow Dash!”

Left alone with Pinkie Pie again, Rainbow breathed heavily, mentally preparing herself for the night ahead.

As Fluttershy reentered the ballroom, she passed by winking at Applejack. Applejack stepped forward to her and recommended she’d find Rarity now for any possible further instructions. Fluttershy nodded and did as Applejack suggested. Rarity, in the meantime, had been scanning the crowds for a certain group that may be of some use. She only hoped they weren’t in the gardens all the way on the other side of the Gala. As she saw one rather familiar group of ponies, though, she ducked quickly behind the crowd. It was Snazzy Tux’s circle of friends. Oh, how she just wanted to re-enter that fold and be that kind of pony everypony should know, but she had a mission to perform. What it was precisely, she hadn’t made clear even to herself. It was a matter of improvising at this point to her. Rarity kept herself low, crawling as it were to allude notice of Snazzy and his friends. This had become difficult for her, avoiding the group she wanted, yet struggling to find the group she needed.

“Where in the wide world of Equestria are those damn flappers?!” Rarity grumbled in her mind.

Their uniforms would be unmistakable, their faces too familiar, even the social gravitation towards them would be most apparent. The five minutes Rarity had assigned Pinkie were almost up, not that this was a problem. Rarity had plenty of time even after that. Better it would be to utilize the ponies she had in mind before the dance, but following the dance would still work, she thought. If any group can make Rainbow Dash look good, it was the Wonderbolts!

Meanwhile, up on the raised, royal platform overlooking the Gala, were seated on thrones Princesses Luna, Celestia, and Twilight Sparkle.

“I see,” Princess Celestia said, placing her teacup back down onto the saucer with her light gold aura.

Princess Luna was quite impressed and said, “Your friend, Rarity, seems to be cleverer than I had thought afore time. Has she a history of forging bonds such as this?”

Twilight slipped at her coffee, not tea like her fellow royals, and answered, “That’s the only thing I don’t get, believe it or not. I mean, she certainly seems to have some sort of experience, but I’ve never even heard of Rarity dabbling in matchmaking before,” taking another sip, then giggled, “except maybe for herself.”

Mild amusement traveled through the regal triad at that last part.

Twilight then said, “I do mean to ask her about it after tonight, though.”

Princess Celestia smiled, hummed in response, and then said, “You will have to write to us when you find out,” switching then to a somewhat apologetic look, “and you’ll have to forgive me, Twilight. I had imagined earlier that something sinister was ahoof. I should have never seen you in that way.”

Princess Luna placed a comforting hoof to her sister’s shoulder and then Twilight giggled more.

“Oh Celestia,” she said, “I know what it must have looked like back there. There’s nothing to forgive.”

Relief eased away the mild guilt Princess Celestia had for her suspicions, allowing herself, her sister, and her young friend to enjoy each other’s company.

Far off from the Princesses, Rarity had skimmed through nearly the entire event hall. All her tireless search payed off, however, for she had found where the Wonderbolts had congregated. Indeed there were many. How could she not find them sooner? Though Rarity wasn’t so much a fan herself, Rainbow Dash had engrained into her memories the names of many. Fleetfoot, Soarin, and Spitfire were most well-known to the public. She also knew Fire Streak and Lightning, as well as Silver Zoom, Wind Walker, and Blaze. There were even a few others she hadn’t seen before. Probably new to the fleet. She made a friendly face and approached the group. They all were obviously in the midst of conversation. About what, Rarity didn’t care, as she made herself known.

Spitfire was the first to acknowledge, “Hey Rarity! Good to see you tonight.” This guided the attention of the rest to Rarity who greeted in kind, “Good evening, Spitfire. A charm it is to find you as well.”

She had the perfect follow up to mask her agenda, “How is your mother faring? Rainbow had told me she was ill, for real this time. Feather Flu, if I recall?”

Spitfire smiled warmly, taken a bit that Rarity would inquire on one of her closest loved ones.

She answered, “She’s fine now. I tell you though, it was a rough two weeks for her.” She winced as she remembered what her mother (Stormy Flare) went through, then continued appreciatively, “Thanks for asking. How have you been?”

Excellent! Had it not been for Rainbow Dash’s association with the Wonderbolts, Spitfire would probably have just turned away after talking about her mother. There she was though, engaging Rarity in return, just like she hoped.

“I’m well, thank you,” Rarity answered Spitfire, “though I am facing quite a challenge as we speak.”

“What’s that?” Fleetfoot joined in. Rarity then began explaining the matter of Rainbow Dash, Summer Breeze, and her desperate attempt to pair them up.

During that time, Fluttershy had been on her search for Rarity, as Applejack suggested. She did her best to ignore every impulse telling her to tread lightly as she weaved through the crowds. There was no telling what task she’d be assigned next, or if there was any left for her to do. Fluttershy did her best to avoid bumping into anypony, though her head turning left and right constantly had made it difficult. She then recognized in the distance Snazzy Tux’s company. Focusing her sight leftward towards that group, she did her best to see if Rarity had immersed herself again into the social scene, without ceasing her slowed prancing. Next thing she knew, however, having lost concentration on where she was going, Fluttershy had stumbled and collided into somepony.

She fell on her flank and instantly curled up on her side pleading, “Oh my! Excuse me, I’m so sorry! I didn’t mean to…” freezing mid-sentence as she saw just who it was in front of her. It was Summer Breeze. She had a look of alarm from the mild impact, which had softened to concern for the fallen pegasus.

“Oh my goodness, are you alright?!” Summer asked, taking Fluttershy’s hoof into her own. She helped up Fluttershy, who was struck speechless. With the same look of concern, Summer waited patiently for a reply.

“Are you hurt?” she asked again, remaining silent after, assuming the pegasus was experiencing some sort of shock from the collision.

Fluttershy struggled to speak as she muttered, “I…I…” blushing at what she had just done and to whom.

In a fight-or-flight response, she forced an innocent giggle and hastily said, “Excuse me!” running off as fast as she could. Simply terrible, Fluttershy was thinking. What a lousy way to meet Rainbow’s secret special somepony! She could only pray Summer would not remember that particular event and try to make a better impression later on.

Spitfire was quite taken by Rarity’s paraphrased account regarding Rainbow Dash and the all the measures taken so far by her friends.

“Wow,” Spitfire said, as Fleetfoot and Soarin quietly listened in, “Never would have occurred to me that Rainbow was that kind of pony.”

Rarity smiled nervously and asked, “Then you’ll do it?!” Spitfire raised an eyebrow, thinking a moment. She then glanced from side to side at her associates Fleetfoot and Soarin, saying, “So all we have to do, you say, is pass by Rainbow and this other mare, and make her look good with us?”

Rarity nodded anxiously and said, “Exactly! About thirty minutes from now, give or take. So you’ll help?”

Spitfire glanced left and right again between Fleetfoot and Soarin, smiles and nods of whom seem to urge the same from herself.

She looked back at Rarity and consented, “I’m sure we can put a good word in for Rainbow Dash.”

At this, Rarity took her hoof into her own for an appreciative shake exclaiming, “Oh thank you, thank you!” A soft voice from behind caught her attention saying, “um, Rarity?” She knew who that was, spinning around to face Fluttershy.

“What is it dear?” Rarity asked, but before Fluttershy answered, taking note of her flushed cheeks, changed her question, “Are you quite alright darling?”

Fluttershy shrunk and answered, “um, Well, AJ told me I should look for you, if there was anything more I can do.”

That didn’t quite answer Rarity’s curiosity, seeing the state she was in. As silence filled between the two, Fluttershy continued to speak, avoiding eye contact, “and, um, while I was looking for you, I…” she paused as her blush grew, “…I may have crashed into Summer Breeze.”

Rarity’s eye began twitching, as though she were seeing precious chinaware shattering. She leaned in quickly and asked, “Is she…” pausing a moment to amend her question, “…are you both okay?”

Rarity wasn’t about to forget her flustered companion.

Fluttershy did her best to straighten back up, relax, and answered, “We’re both fine, thank you, um…” then smiled as she continued, “Summer was actually really nice to me when I fell.”

Rarity closed her eyes and sighed, sensing that no serious damage had been done.

Remembering then that Applejack sent Fluttershy, she then returned to Fluttershy’s earlier query, “Well as long you’re here, there is one more thing you can do for me,” turning back to Spitfire. She nodded in farewell and walked Fluttershy away a short distance. “Walk back to Applejack, carefully, and be sure to tell her that I managed to enlist the Wonderbolts to build up Rainbow’s image. After that, you’re free to enjoy the Gala until further instruction.”

Fluttershy smiled and nodded, replying back, “Right!” and went off to talk to Applejack.

Rarity just hoped that the image Applejack held of her would also improve.

Back in the botanical gardens, the stop watch chimed, taking Rainbow Dash out of her state of meditation. She then felt Pinkie’s cheek press up against her own.

“Ready Dashie?!” Pinkie Pie said as she grinned. Rainbow tried to swallow, but struggled to do so as her mouth went dry.

“Dashie?” asked Pinkie, concerned by the silence following her last question. Rainbow wanted to go, but fearing a dry mouth would inhibit her speech in anyway, said,

“One more minute, I need water,” and proceeded to one of the springing fountain. The water there was probably clean enough, but she didn’t care. She just needed moisture to return to her mouth. Pinkie Pie, confused, just shrugged her shoulders, and said,

“If you say so.” She set her stopwatch again and waited.

Applejack was waiting near the entry to the gardens becoming impatient. Her sense of time told her the five minutes were up. She kept looking back from where Rainbow and Pinkie were supposed to emerge, but she didn’t see either of them coming. This distraction had almost cost her knowledge on Summer’s location a couple of times. That was until she witnessed Fluttershy’s collision with the mare. Applejack put a hoof to her face as she saw this, but seeing from the distance how Summer didn’t seem offended, she sighed a relief as Fluttershy rushed away. She saw her friend coming back from along one side of the event hall, this time at a much slower pace. Clearly she was attempting to avoid taking another misstep. As soon as the space between the two was clear, Fluttershy galloped quicker over the Applejack, seemingly more relaxed than before.

“Well?” she asked Fluttershy.

The pegasus smiled answering, “Rarity says I’m just about done, but wanted me to give you a message.”

Applejack listened closely as she continued, “Rarity told me that she’s getting the Wonderbolts to ‘build up Rainbow’s image’,” adding emphasis to the last four words, implying direct quotation from Rarity.

Applejack blinked, starting to feel sorry for misjudging Rarity’s character. She really was working behind the scenes as Rarity said she would. Applejack almost couldn’t then tell which she regretted more: Assuming in the wrong that Rarity was going to be lazy and have a fun night while her friends did all the hard work, or how the value she previously ascribed to everypony doing her part in fixing Rainbow Dash up with Summer Breeze had practically overshadowed that very goal. To think also that Rarity had sent Fluttershy over just to clear her name as a bad friend. Somehow that made Applejack feel like maybe she was the bad friend.

Seeing thus that Fluttershy’s tasks have been accomplished, Applejack had one more question to ask.

Shrugging off the thin blanket of guilt, she asked, “You reckon I keep this here about the Wonderbolts from RD?”

Fluttershy glanced down in thoughtful silence for about two seconds before answering, “I would think so. Rarity didn’t tell me otherwise.”

With that matter out of the way, Applejack turned her gaze back to the crowd, exclaiming a moment later, “Ah hayseed, where’d she go now?!” losing sight of Summer Breeze.

“There!” Fluttershy pointed with a hoof, directing her friend about 45° to the left.

Applejack sighed again saying, “Oh, I wish Rainbow and Pinkie would come on out already.”

Fluttershy didn’t respond to that statement, but instead excused herself saying, “I should go now. Rarity doesn’t want us too close. I already pointed at Summer. We don’t want her getting suspicious.”

Applejack nodded to this, allowing Fluttershy to escape from the scene.

After Rarity sent Fluttershy away, she started compiling a mental list of actions she’s taken that day. She helped Rainbow Dash come out, taught her to dance, led a covert operation to get her with Summer Breeze. She also found an ally in Octavia, as well as convinced to Wonderbolts to make Rainbow look impressive to her secret special somepony. She felt good about herself, so sure that by the end of the night, Rainbow would capture Summer’s heart.

Even Twilight was certain of Rarity’s expertise, having seen her speaking with the Wonderbolts from the royal platform. She knew what Rarity was up to talking with that particular group. She had this in the bag for Rainbow, Twilight just knew it. She was so impressed by this maneuver that she couldn’t resist pointing out what was happening. Princesses Celestia and Luna were intuitive of many things, but Twilight still felt like elaborating what she assumed was Rarity’s attempt to enhance to Rainbow’s repute. She sensed that the time was near, as she eagerly awaited to see everything she and her friends worked for become a reality for Rainbow.

Author's Note

PS
If there are any issues, such as accidental plagiarism, or anything of the like, let me know and I will try to correct it.