Of Hooves & Wings - A Rainbow Breeze Tale

Chapters

Chapter One - To the Gala
Chapter Two – The Great Q&A
Chapter Three – Who Is She?
Chapter Five – The Plot
Chapter Six - Attitude
Chapter Eight – Rainbow Dash’s Best Night Ever (Part II)
Chapter Four – This Time with More Feeling
Chapter Seven – Rainbow Dash’s Best Night Ever (Part I)

Chapter One - To the Gala

Chapter One – To the Gala

It was about noon at the train station, where Pinkie Pie had been bouncing for nearly half an hour, waiting patiently and excitingly for the train to arrive. Twilight and the rest of her friends had put themselves a considerable distance from Pinkie, so certain that her bouncing would at some point cause the wooden floor beneath to collapse. They all observed dreading that inevitability, intently listening to the creaking of the floor with each ascent and descent of that blissfully carefree pony.

Fluttershy was the first among the five to speak up, softly, “um, shouldn’t one of us do something?” She asked, not willing to volunteer herself, “she’s just going to hurt herself if she keeps jumping.”

Applejack sighed at what seemed like a pointless cause, but for Fluttershy’s sake, she made an attempt. “Pinkamena Diane Pie! You get back here before falling through the floor now, ya hear?!”

Pinkie froze in midair, holding her pose until she landed. Drooping her ears, she slowly walked to her group saying, “Sorry AJ,” her mood shaken by the use of her full name, “I’m just super excited that we’re all going to the Grand Galloping Gala again. It feels like forever since the last.”

Twilight chuckled at Pinkie’s enthusiasm. “We all are Pinkie, but let’s all try to get there in one piece.”

Rarity concurred. “Indeed, the last thing you want is to get injured and be unable to come on the last minute.” The rest all hummed in agreement, except for one, Rainbow Dash, who dressed in an elegant, raw umber colored suit, with a purple bowtie. She just kept to herself, silent, staring far out along the tracks.

It was only a few months since Twilight had received tickets to yet another Gala, for herself and her friends. It had been years since the gals’ first Grand Galloping Gala together, each succeeding one being better than the last. Her friends were thrilled every time these tickets came, maybe more so than Twilight, but something was different that time. Among her five friends, Rainbow Dash had seemed distant, nervous even, despite her painfully obvious fake smile. Maybe it was merely comparing Rainbow’s reaction to Pinkie Pie’s enthrallment, Twilight couldn’t tell, but something seemed off that day, and she had just sensed that same distance between Rainbow and the group at the station. Come to think of it, something had certainly changed in Rainbow since those tickets came, up until the day of the Gala, causing Twilight some concern.

Twilight broke from the group whose focus was on Pinkie, drawing near Rainbow Dash, and asked: “Are you okay?” No reaction. She tried again. “Rainbow Dash?”

The sound of her name pulled Rainbow out of her trance after realizing Twilight was talking to her. “Huh? Uh yeah, I’m fine, just psyched to be going to the Grand Galloping Gala with my friends,” she said, finishing with a rather big grin. A fake grin. A grin Twilight did not like at all.

“Are you sure? Because you don’t seem that excited about it. If you’d rather not come this time,” Twilight gave a caring look, “I’m sure our friends will under–”

“NO!” Rainbow said, cutting Twilight off, “I mean, I really want to go. It’s just,” she paused, reconsidering the course of her words, “I’m fine, really.”

She offered a more sincere smile, leaving Twilight unsatisfied, yet at the same time unwilling to press further. Rainbow then got up on all fours and joined the others who had been focused on their own conversation. Pleased to see Rainbow being part of her circle again, Twilight likewise followed.

The train had to have been fifteen minutes away, give or take, as more and more ponies came out ready to board. These many new arrivals had begun idle chit-chat, amongst themselves and with Twilight’s circle of friends, just passing the time as they all awaited the train to make it stop. Twilight herself had become entranced by the mingling scene, forgetting entirely about Rainbow Dash’s reserved behavior. Rainbow finally had the chance to creep back into her own world to ponder the future, until:

“Are you quite alright there, darling?” Again, Rainbow snapped out of her mind. She turned slightly to find Rarity with a look of concern on her face. Hearing no response, Rarity had assumed she wasn’t heard, so she repeated, “I asked if you were alright, dear.”

“You don’t look well at all, Rainbow,” Fluttershy pointed out, poking her head from behind Rarity. “Is there anything we can do?” After vaguely hearing out Fluttershy, Rainbow shook her head lightly back into the real world.

“What, I mean no, ha-ha. Everything’s fine, just fine.” There was a pause between “just” and “fine”. Both Rarity and Fluttershy shared an analytical expression, broken by a slight shake in disagreement from Fluttershy.

Rarity persisted, “Nothing is ‘just – fine’,” mimicking Rainbow. The fashionista was simply too observant to ignore the signs. Even Rainbow’s choice of suit over the dress made specially for her raised flags in Rarity’s mind, as Rainbow played a bit with her purple bowtie.

A single bead of sweat slowly fell down Rainbow’s face. She focused back on Rarity and Fluttershy, watching as their faces went from curious to worried. What to do? Rainbow could have just…no, too soon, and not to only two of them! Certainly not out in open, but Rainbow Dash had just found herself cornered.

She sighed and thought that maybe she could use this.

“Okay, well, it’s like this,” Rainbow had to aim perfectly, “Just, I need to tell you all something.”

“Yes?” Rarity and Fluttershy both asked in unison.

Their eyes locked onto Rainbow, who then clarified, saying, “But not here, and…I need you five together!”

Fluttershy was disappointed, feeling unable to do anything to help her friend. “Oh, um, on the train then?” attempting to read Rainbow’s mind.

Rainbow nodded in confirmation, “Yeah, on the train, I promise.” Still feeling unsure, Fluttershy took a hoof to her eye, saying nothing. Getting the hint, Rainbow recited speedily, “Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye!”

“I’ll hold you to it,” Rarity herself promised, making simply the hoof gestures involved in a Pinkie Promise, which was just as binding. Feeling that matter was settled, Rainbow gave a nod in consent and turned to the distance, seeing the long-awaited train. This was it, she thought. The flag had been planted, the foundation established, Rainbow’s door had just opened ajar, and the exact setting was about to arrive.

Everypony saw the new train arriving, mostly silver in appearance, and had begun to organize themselves, hinting Rainbow, Rarity, and Fluttershy that they best be off finding their other friends. The search wasn’t difficult since Princess Twilight Sparkle was always granted, or rather forced, the honor of being first in line to climb aboard. Was Twilight ever going to get used to special honors?

The three mares rushed towards Twilight, only to be halted by the conductor. “Now wait just minute. You three, get to the back of the line.”

Rarity was most offended, but Fluttershy acquiesced to the conductor’s command. “PEEP! s-Sorry, we’ll just…” She turned away with a lowered gaze when not but a few steps later, she heard Twilight’s voice.

“Wait!” The conductor turned to Twilight who, halfway onboard, scorned back, “Iron Ore! You know those three ponies!” Her anger subsided only slightly. “They’re with me.”

The conductor, having removed his cap, placed it on his chest and spoke through his mustache, “My apologies, Princess. Welcome aboard,” he turned to Rarity, Fluttershy, and Rainbow with a bow.

Rarity was the first to follow Twilight, Pinkie, and Applejack in, with her nose pointed up, eyes closed, letting out a disdaining “Hmph!”.

Rainbow was next, almost back to her usual attitude, which would have taken this moment to be likewise as annoyed as Rarity.

Fluttershy lastly followed Rainbow, whilst whispering to the conductor: “It’s okay,” hoping Twilight and least of all Rarity didn’t hear.

Finally, with all six accounted for, they proceeded to the car especially reserved for them, and them alone. Princess Celestia had often, in past times, offered to provide special escort for Twilight to the Gala since she was a princess. She even had extended the offer to her closest friends, merely for regal tradition’s sake, but Twilight had always turned down such an offer. Going by train with her five friends was her tradition and she simply wouldn’t have it any other way.

Applejack was the first to speak once all of them made their way to their car. “Say, Twi, you think all that royal biz is, at last, getting to you?”

Twilight looked at Applejack's teasing smirk. A blush came to her face. “Not at all! I just couldn’t let anypony treat my friends like that.”

She followed that with a mild chuckle, tucking in one corner of her mouth opposite to Applejack. A silence then filled the air, which was odd, as usually in such times Rainbow Dash would have come with a playful retort such as ‘yeah right Twilight’, which would have been followed by laughter from the rest, giving Twilight a hard time, as was the silly custom amongst good friends. Nopony had that specifically in mind, but the sense of something missing was there. It occurred to Rarity at that point that Rainbow had the time to say what she promised, but when she looked towards the quiet pegasus, it was clear she was deep in thought. She then went down a mental list of what might be going on inside that vibrantly plumed head. The six had finally arrived at the reserved car, according to Twilight’s instructions. Nothing special, she just wanted a good old regular car, maybe with a little higher maintenance, clean and orderly. In the past, similar to Princess Celestia, Rarity had insisted that Twilight not be so humble with her needs, but this was just Twilight. Each of the six had taken their seats in the following manner: all were seated on the left side of the car. From left to right, those closer to the front of the train were Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, and Rarity. Facing Rarity was Rainbow Dash, who looked as though she was finally compiling all her thoughts to share, followed leftward by Applejack and Twilight.

Before anypony had a full minute to settle in, Pinkie Pie burst out, “Oh boy!” followed by the musically tuned, “We’re on our way to the Gala, we’re on our way to the Gala, we’re on our way to the Gala!” cut short, thank Celestia, by the giggles she couldn’t repress any longer.

Twilight smiled at Pinkie’s contagious self, then asked the group, “So any of you girls have any special plans tonight?”

Applejack was the first to share. “Well, I’ve been sharing certain recipes on certain desserts with the organizers of the Gala and I think—”

“I’m sorry for interrupting, dear,” Rarity came in rather hastily, “but there’s a more urgent matter to attend to right now.” Applejack gaped at this rude act, often being at odds with Rarity, but grew curious as the unicorn turned to Rainbow Dash.

Rainbow winced at Rarity’s stare, so she turned towards Fluttershy instead, who likewise stared. She kept turning her sights to each friend, finding that same stare, ending with Applejack who asked, “Something wrong, sugar cube?”

The most Rainbow could say was a single vowel, though the exact one strangely couldn’t be placed. Her eyes fell to the lower right. She took in a deep breath, and held it. Rarity’s eyes widened at this. It was something she had seen before. She knew that look. Well, she didn’t know it full well, but she had a pretty good guess.

“Rainbow,” she then addressed, choosing to hide her suspicions, “you said there was something important you needed to tell us: the five of us.” She put some light emphasis on that last part, re-establishing one of Rainbow’s conditions.

Fluttershy then chimed in with the second condition, “And,” she trailed off for a second, “we are on the train now.” She reinforced her point with a nod.

Cornered again. Just what Rainbow Dash wanted, yet didn’t want. She wanted so badly for no other option, but it was the option she didn’t want to take. Rainbow Dash sat up straight, fixed her gaze a little to the left, bouncing back from front to left, just wishing she could just get all her friends in one sight.

A minor inconvenience, she decided, as she began calmly, “I…have a confession to make,” speaking the last three words slowly.

The five others said together, “Yes?”

“It’s really, REALLY important that I get this out now,” Rainbow qualified.

“YES?” Her friends repeated, more emphatically, though Rarity was softer than the rest.

Rainbow took a deep breath in when Pinkie chimed in, “Ooo, I know, I know I know!” All eyes landed on Pinkie, “Is this about the time you unsorted Twilight’s books in the most unsorted, unsubtle way possible?!”

At this, Twilight barked, “That was YOU?!” Rainbow had felt the precious time was wasting away, but Pinkie continued, blissfully unaware. “Or was it the time you switched sugar with salt during AJ’s bake sale for the post Summer Sun Celebration?!”

“Say what now?” Applejack gawked at Pinkie, hoping she heard that wrong.

“How about Fluttershy’s animals when you—”

Fluttershy was by this point pleading Pinkie to stop. “Pinkie, shhh!” She squeaked, bringing both hooves to her mouth, not caring whatever Rainbow Dash had done.

Rarity finally barked out, “Miss Pinkamena!”, shooting a molten hot glare at the overly hyped Pie. It wasn’t her full name, but it was enough to tame Pinkie and indicate clearly the negativity she was bringing into the car. The whole scene felt like Rainbow had set a home on fire by her doing, and she was caught in it.

Rarity’s eyes softened as she returned to Rainbow, who was still frozen on her seat. She rushed over, taking Rainbow by the hoof, and led her to a door saying, “Oh you poor, poor thing!” Now she had improvised. “Please just... just take your time, and get some fresh air.”

Dash, amidst the chaos Pinkie had unleashed, knew nothing more than to say “Alright”, and stepped outside onto a wooden platform.

“And don’t worry, I’ll have the room cool in no time at all,” Rarity continued, as she slowly closed the door.

“Terrible, just terrible,” were the words Rainbow Dash immediately thought after Rarity had left her alone. She leaned on the metal framing that surrounded her small space, as she stared down at the tracks.

She then looked up into the skies and thought to herself, “I could just fly, right now.” But she felt the shackles of that promise she made.

“Nopony breaks a Pinkie Promise,” Rainbow thought back at what caused her to accept this trap she put herself in. She took another deep breath in, then released.

A strong scent had filled her nostrils, causing her to look to her right. She saw cropland: vast fields of wheat, corn, sunflowers, daffodils, and so much more. Where was she again? Rainbow looked out from where the train was leaving and saw Canterlot from afar. Next stop being Vanhoover and circle back to Canterlot was her best guess, never having put thought in the way trains went. The fields caught her nose again, being very sweet to the smell. It was past noon, and the sun brought warmth to the land, coupled with the rush of wind as the train sped on the tracks. Rainbow Dash smiled, the first genuine smile for some time. She continued leaning on the metal railing, and after resting her head, she was finally at peace.

Meanwhile, back in the car, immediately after Rarity left Rainbow to herself, she leaned her back against the door, panting frantically. It only took a moment to collect herself, shifting from panicked to just plain angry. She trotted back to her seat, filling the room with silence. Oh, how they all got it was the thought filling everypony else’s minds. Rarity took a second with closed eyes, then shot a hot glare at Pinkie Pie, Applejack, and Twilight. Rainbow Dash was right outside, so Rarity couldn’t bring herself to speak too loudly, so she spoke barely above a whisper.

“I hope you are all proud of yourselves.”

This earned surprised expressions from the four other mares. Fluttershy ducked her head, accepting the fault. “s-Sorry,” she began, but Rarity clarified:

“Oh no, not you at all, dear.” She shifted her gaze onto Pinkie, Applejack, Twilight, then continued. “You were just as desperate for PINKIE to stop talking as I was. Our friend Rainbow Dash clearly had something important to tell us, and you trampled all over her words with your,” Rarity cleared her throat, “fond memories of pranks which now have her friends upset at her!”

Pinkie Pie’s hung her head low and her hair went flat. Rarity shifted her attention towards Applejack, who then took her hat to her chest, ready for whatever she deserved.

“Jacqueline Apple, you were…” Rarity was lost for a moment, then rolled her eyes, sighing. “I suppose you were the least worse, BUT YOU DIDN’T HELP!” Applejack sighed, still guilty, but relieved that her impact was minimal. There was one last pony to whip, the Princess of Friendship herself.

“And YOU,” Rarity inched towards Twilight.

“Me?” Twilight asked softly, confused by the whole situation.

“Yes, you,” Rarity reiterated. “Something has been eating at Rainbow for quite some time now, a matter of great importance to tell us, but after Pinkie exposed Rainbow for the ‘book disorganizer’ she was, you barked at her!”

Twilight reflected back, remembering how Rainbow was acting, not just on the train or at the station, but for the past three months. There were small changes, which progressed more and more, but Twilight had occasionally tried to figure out what was up. During that time, Rainbow always assured her how everything was fine and she had never cut herself off from her friends, but Dash had become milder, even withdrawn. Had Twilight been that blind to this shift in personalities? She didn’t want to impose her help too much on Rainbow, but now the possibility fell on Twilight that maybe she didn’t do enough, as Rarity pointed out.

“Princess of Friendship my ass,” Rarity thought. Such a phrase would never escape the lips of this unicorn of more eloquent speech, yet Twilight lowered her head in shame, as though she had heard that exact statement. She found herself tracing circles with her hoof on the seat, thinking that maybe she should have picked up more from Rainbow’s mind.

“You’re right, Rarity,” Twilight finally confessed. “that was inexcusable on my part.”

The guilty mares Twilight, Applejack, and Pinkie Pie all exchanged glances, and as they seemed to read each other’s next words, they spoke in unison.

“We’re sorry, Rarity.”

Rarity turned away from them. “Well, don’t tell me that,” she said, hinting to whom their apology should have been towards.

Fluttershy had kept quiet the whole time, but seeing how much more pacified the scene had become, she asked Rarity, “Um, what now?”

Approving Fluttershy’s desire to move on, Rarity said, “Do check up on our friend outside, won’t you, dear?” Fluttershy nodded and went without hesitation to the door leading out.

Fluttershy stepped out to meet Rainbow, who smiled serenely onto the landscape. This told Fluttershy just how well her friend was, but she needed to make sure.

“Rainbow, how are you holding up?”

Rainbow turned to Fluttershy, bearing a peaceful look. “I’m okay now. It was just getting a little too hot in there, but I’m better now.”

This made Fluttershy smile softly, as Rainbow would never lie to her, at least not over any serious matter. She looked out with her friend towards the passing scenery, understanding the sense of calm Rainbow had found. She took a rest on the railing, enjoying the quiet moment, but couldn’t resist pressing on:

“Rainbow Dash, you know I’m your friend. If there’s anything you want to tell me, I won’t tell anypony if you don’t want me to.”

Fluttershy wasn’t completely right, Rainbow mused to herself. No, she was more like a little sister. Their bond went back to a flight camp in Cloudsdale, and Rainbow had always been looking out for her. Dash had to keep that to herself, though, especially from Scootaloo.

Fluttershy, finding Rainbow unresponsive, changed the subject. “It really is beautiful out here, isn’t it? Just so yellow!” And it was, as the croplands seem to go on for miles and miles.

“Yeah,” Rainbow agreed, but not at Fluttershy’s second point. “You are my friend, my best friend,” she continued, causing Fluttershy to softly smile, “but so is everypony else in there.” She turned back towards the door.

Fluttershy understood what Rainbow had meant, but again sought confirmation. “Are you ready to come back in?” Rainbow gave a soft nod, and Fluttershy opened the door for her.

A moment after Fluttershy went out to Rainbow Dash, Rarity had begun giving strict instructions to her remaining friends. “Now girls, when Rainbow comes back in, I want her to see a room full of smiles.”

Turning towards Pinkie Pie, she continued. “Turn that frown…upside down!” This rekindled Pinkie’s giggly self, as Rarity was obviously taking a page straight out of her book, and her flat hair bounced back up!

Rarity turned to the other two, the grins of whom were far too exaggerated. “Uhh, dial it down a tad, dears.”

Applejack and Twilight showed fewer teeth, but Rarity was unsatisfied. “Little bit more,” then, “try softer now,” until at last their faces adjusted to more moderate smiles. Like they couldn’t do that in the first place, Rarity thought; nevertheless, she carried on, bidding them to strike out everything Pinkie was spouting out so carelessly before from the record, reminding them all how to be there for Rainbow in her time of need, and so forth.

The stage was set and not a moment too soon, as Fluttershy’s head poked inside to declare softly, “She’s ready.” She opened the door wider, allowing a much more relaxed Rainbow Dash to reenter the car.

As Rainbow looked amongst her peers, she almost didn’t buy into all the smiles she saw but chose not to make a fuss over it. She returned to her seat, startled slightly by a glass of water levitating near her, upheld by a bluish-gray aura. In front of her was Rarity, whose horn glowed with the same color, beckoning Rainbow to take the glass.

“Thanks, Rare,” she said, taking the cup from Rarity’s magical grasp and sipping on it.

Twilight was the first to speak up. “Sorry Rainbow, I think I could have been a bit more sensitive with you. I hope you can forgive me.”

Before Rainbow could even think up a response, Pinkie took her turn. “Oh-no-no-no-no, if anypony’s got to be sorry,” she said, lowering her voice to a whisper, “then I’ve got to be super-duper sorry.” Then, raising her voice a little, she added: “I’m the one who started it.”

Applejack was the last. “And I’m sorry for, uh,” she paused, fishing around for some kind of fault. What was it that she did, exactly?

She defaulted to what Rarity had said earlier. “Uh, sorry for not being any help in the situation, sugar muffin.” Applejack grinned weakly, causing Rarity to roll her eyes at what seemed like a weak apology, while Rainbow actually giggled at AJ’s efforts. Rarity tried to bring back everypony's attention. “Anyway,” she began, then turning to Rainbow Dash, “you have something to say.”

Rainbow blinked, finding all eyes were on her, and she was under the spotlight again. She took a longer sip from the glass of water, readying herself. She then opened her mouth, but no words came out. Her friends, sans Rarity, began imagining what Rainbow had bottled up inside. Was she kicked out of the Wonderbolts? Or was Rainbow the one responsible for the near catastrophic dust storm that had hit Appleloosa, Dodge Junction, all the way to Ponyville? Was she the one who woke the cranky dragon from the Smokey Mountains which then nearly attacked Cloudsdale? Every scenario conceivably connected to Rainbow Dash came to the minds of Twilight, Applejack, and especially the overly imaginative Pinkie Pie. Even the worse, most improbable, not to mention morbid thought arose. Did she kill somepony? Their thoughts became more ludicrous by the minute, while Rarity and Fluttershy simply waited in patience.

This was taking too long, Rarity realized, but what could she do? She couldn’t simply play twenty or more questions with Rainbow to squeeze out what she needed to say.

Still committed to her best guess from earlier, she drew Rainbow in with her softest, most caring eyes, and said, “If it’s any consolation, dear,” her smile grew warmer, “I know.”

This caused everypony to gasp sharply and their eyes to focus on Rarity. Rainbow sank into her seat as she let out a hesitant, “What?! You do? But how?”

Rarity shook her head. “I’ll tell you later, but first,” she said, making a circular gesture with her hoof, urging Rainbow to continue.

How did she know? What did she know?! Or was Rarity simply bluffing? Dash took a gulp from her glass this time. She felt a hoof on her shoulder. Applejack’s, to be specific.

“Listen here, partner. If Rarity knows what’s going on, and is okay with it,” Applejack said, sending a speculative glance towards the seemingly knowing unicorn, “which she clearly is, then I am too.”

This made Rainbow a little more comfortable, but Applejack continued, a little more harshly: “But for corn’s sake, RD, I’d like to be wise as to what I’m approvin’ here with you.”

Nothing. Rainbow just took another drink, looking away, but with a blush now more apparent.

Fluttershy was on the verge of tears now, seeing her friend in this state. “Please just say it, we’ll all still love you. I promise,” she insisted, and her remark was followed by Pinkie’s, which sounded just as desperate.

“I – Can’t – Take – The – Suspense!”

Applejack was about to continue when Twilight burst in. “GIRLS!”

Getting Rainbow’s attention, she took a hoof to her chest and inhaled. Rainbow blinked, a sign she was paying attention, and Twilight exhaled, extending the same hoof out. Rainbow blinked twice at the suddenly still Twilight, taking the same motions as Twilight, and they repeated the breathing exercise that was taught by Princess Cadence.

After a few repetitions of this, Rainbow sat back down. She heard Twilight ask: “Feeling better now?”

After nodding to Twilight, Dash turned towards Rarity, “You think you can tell them for me?” She asked.

Rarity jolted back on her seat and yelled back, “No!” Her eyes were filled with sincerity. “This is your moment, darling.”

What else could she say? Rainbow, unsatisfied, tried again. “Well then help me out here!” Rarity blinked, unsure if she should, but seeing Rainbow as though her wing was caught beneath a boulder, she simply couldn’t find it within her to refuse.

“Very well, I shall do my best to get you through this,” Rarity said, smiling. Rainbow Dash shined forth an expression of hope.

Rarity began by clearing her throat, and staring directly at Rainbow. “FIRST,” she began, softly, “close your eyes.” Rainbow did so. “Second,” Rarity continued, “put forth in your mind what you want to say in the simplest and fewest words.”

“Already have them,” Rainbow whispered back, as though she was going through some sort of hypnotic therapy.

Rarity moved on to the next step. “Now open your eyes!” Rainbow did so, seeing her friends, each bearing a neutral expression. She then looked back to a smiling Rarity. “Just say it,” she said, in a calm whisper.

Rainbow began. It was the moment of truth, and she would do it in one fast swoop. “I— ah—,” she stammered, only to collapse her words into a cough.

Recognizing her discouragement, Rarity made the rushing command: “Just relax and we’ll take this one breath at a time.”

After a single breath in and out, as Rarity gestured, Rainbow took a second breath in, managing to get the first word out, “I…” She took a third breath in, releasing the second word, “am…”

Rarity’s eyes beamed in excitement, and she insisted: “Now one big one, one big one.”

Finally, Rainbow took the last deep breath in. The others gaped, ready for anything, as Dash unleashed the final word, lasting only a mere second: “Gay.”

Twilight, Applejack, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie all together straightened out on their seats, unsure of what to say. This urged Rainbow to say it again, more shortly, and in surrender. “I’m gay.”

Rarity was the first to react, letting out a high pitched and jubilant giggle, clapping her hooves together at what Rainbow Dash had just accomplished.

Pinkie Pie had just let out a nonchalant, “Oh,” seemingly almost disappointed.

Twilight attempted a redaction of Pinkie’s only word, “Is…that all?”

Rainbow Dash looked up, surprised. The first sign of approval, but her face remained concerned. She couldn’t say anything more just yet, so she settled with a gentle nod.

This was followed by Applejack’s solemn voice. “Golly, that’s gotta be one heavy wagon to pull hun.” It didn’t quite translate as ‘approval’, but it wasn’t rejection either, so Dash just smirked innocently, turning her head away slightly, keeping her eyes fixed on Applejack.

A broken whimper stole everypony’s attention as Fluttershy began to cry, not from any negative emotion, but out of pure joy. The hooves held to her mouth began to lower, revealing a smile. “Oh Rainbow Dash, I was so worried about you! I had thought something awful happened, and I—” She failed to continue, as the flood of emotions left her throat constricted, unable to let out any more intelligible words. With her loss of speech, Fluttershy just leaped from her seat, rushed over to Rainbow, and hugged her tightly, with both her forehooves and wings. Maybe a little over dramatic, but that was just Fluttershy.

The hug had only lasted a few moments, giving Fluttershy a chance to rediscover her composure and return to her seat. Rainbow Dash felt the weight lifted from her shoulders, fidgeting her wings just to make sure they weren’t carrying her away.

She was addressed by one last pony: Rarity. “You did very well, love.”

“Oh, c’mon, Rare,” Rainbow Dash protested, “I couldn’t have done this without you,”

“Nonsense,” Rarity dismissed, turning her head away. “I merely played the role of midwife. It was all you, dear.” Rainbow had gone speechless once again. “And I’m very proud of you,” Rarity said, with a wink. This sparked a giggle from Rainbow, which morphed into a chuckle, followed by a sudden rush of tears, and she found herself stuck both crying and laughing.

Fluttershy grew a little concerned once more. “Um, Rarity, should we do something?”

Rarity hummed a negative. “Nope, this is all part of the process,” she said, giving the whole group an assuring smile. She turned back to Rainbow, who seemed lost in her emotions. “Now doesn’t that feel just amazing?” Rainbow tried her best to answer.

“Yeah, it does! Make it stop,” she demanded, wishing to find self-control again. In response, and bearing a knowing look, Rarity levitated from her purse a gold pocket watch adorned with a diamond. It seemed as though it wasn’t Rarity’s first witness of this phenomenon.

After Rainbow gazed at the floating pocket watch for a moment, Rarity took a hoof to the air, “You should be at rest…” she said, as she lowered the same hoof, “…right about…” She drew the hoof back to herself. “…now!”

It took a moment, but Rainbow soon found her emotional-self begin to die down. Twilight looked back and forth between those two, impressed by Rarity’s expertise. Where had the seamstress learned these skills? How did she get that timing down so exact? Or was it merely an act of psychological suggestion Rarity was pulling? But if the latter was the case, then how? Rarity of all ponies!

Rainbow seemed relaxed now, feeling a hoof from the left wiping a few remaining tears.

“You feeling better now, hun?” Applejack asked, sweetly.

“Yeah,” Rainbow answered, With a soft giggle, and letting out a sigh of relief afterwards.

“Well, good,” Twilight said, attempting to keep up the conversation, dreading the inevitable to come. Silence, awkward silence.

Everypony looked amongst one another, hoping one would bring an end to the quiet. The only sound to be heard was the running of wheels along the tracks. Something big had just happened. Was everypony to just move on to a new topic of discussion? How was one to follow up on Rainbow’s confession? Should one even tackle the subject further?

Applejack finally broke the silence in the car. “So what now?”

Even Rarity was unsure in this particular situation when a random, squeaky “Oooh Oooh!” indicated that Pinkie Pie had an idea. “Q&A! Q&A!”

Twilight was puzzled. “Q&A?” Pinkie leaned in forward from her seat to Twilight’s face so close that their muzzles nearly touched.

“Q-N-A, Questions And Answers, DUH!” Pinkie said, playfully, drawing back to a more natural sitting position.

Twilight glared back with lowered brows, hissing through her teeth. “I know what ‘Q&A’ stands for, Pinkie!”

Rainbow Dash and Applejack glanced at each other, somewhat confused, and urged Pinkie to go further. Understanding the need for clarification, Pinkie went on.

“Well Dashie just told us something HUGE! It answers some questions, like why she never had a coltfriend—”

“I’m pretty certain none of us have Pinkie.” Twilight shot down the point.

This was followed by a soft, “Well…” Everypony turned towards Fluttershy. It led to a moment of awe and wonder. Fluttershy? She hid behind her mane. “We only went out a month,” she said, letting out a bashful grin.

Applejack tried corralling everypony. “I think we’re all getting off topic here,” she said, turning back to Rainbow Dash. “What do you say there, sugarcube? You think you are up for that?”

Rainbow Dash considered that a moment. With the biggest hurdle already passed, what’s the worst that could happen? Besides, she could use this to further her intentions that night. She needed her friends in on it, so Rainbow said, “Let’s do this!”

Author's Note

Reminder: Needs Edits
Note: When I set about to type this story, the name Summer Breeze was an independent thought. Any use of the name in fanfiction, forums, art, etc. is simply coincidental.

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.

[The train is different, more advanced]

[Must illustrate how Rainbow is in a suit not a dress]

[Rainbow’s suit may be raw umber 612507]

Chapter Two – The Great Q&A

The train was still on route towards Vanhoover as Pinkie Pie was about to play host to a fun new game: “Q&A with Rainbow Dash”. Rarity had ordered a refill on Rainbow’s water glass, and five more for herself and the rest of the gang. Pinkie then began to establish some basic ground rules.

“Okay, so here’s how this will work. Each of us will go around in turns, asking our friend Rainbow a question, only once per turn.” She emphasized the last part lyrically, then resumed. “And if you ask a follow up during somepony’s question, you lose a turn.”

“Just to be clear now: I don’t have to answer a question if I don’t wanna, right?” Rainbow inquired skeptically.

Pinkie Pie nodded frantically. “Of course you don’t! This is all about you being comfortable telling all of us, your best friends, all about the new you!”

Twilight simply couldn’t contain herself. “I’m actually excited to be doing this, Rainbow. It will be like getting to know you all over again.” The rest all hummed in agreement. The positive atmosphere had actually given Rainbow a sense of eagerness, perhaps by mere virtue of being the center of attention and fascination.

Pinkie Pie stood up on her seat, making a strange gesture with both fore hooves, as though she were holding two invisible, dangling objects, confusing everypony. “And the time starts…” she said, beginning to swing her left hoof to her right. “NOW! Applejack!”

Oh, she must have been dinging an imaginary bell. Applejack was about to start up her question, when Rainbow Dash burst in. “Wait! I think I should get the first turn,” She said, raising an eyebrow towards Rarity.

Pinkie Pie blinked for moment. “Oh, sure thing Rainbow, but do you have an answer to your own question?”

“No, but Rarity does,” Rainbow said, turning towards the unicorn, who apparently saw this coming. “This is a two part question: How and for how long did you know this?”

Applejack was curious about this as well, joining in, “Yeah, how did you know—”

Pinkie Pie jumped in before Rarity had a chance to answer. “That counted as a question!”

“Huh?!” Applejack was flabbergasted.

“Then after Rarity answers, Twilight’s next!” Pinkie cheered.

“Oh.” Applejack blushed. “I see.”

Rarity then posed herself proudly, feeling at the moment like the smartest pony in the train car. Rainbow wanted to hear everything: how Rarity could know without the slightest doubt the secret she had kept so guarded from all Equestria. “Well?” Rainbow urged the other for a response.

I feel I should take the last question first,” Rarity said, taking a hoof to her chin as she reached back into her memory. “I believe the first hint I caught was right before the parasprites invaded Ponyville, back at my boutique.” She spoke as though it was just a plain old observation.

“But that’s impossible!” Rainbow Dash insisted. “That was four years ago, and I only knew for the past TWO!”

Gasps filled the room, honing in on Rarity, as the excited host Pinkie bade, “Oh, do go on, Rare.”

Rarity giggled and then continued. “Yes, four years, but that’s not to say I was absolutely positive at the start. I just couldn’t help but notice, as I was putting on the finishing touches of your dress for Princess Celestia’s visit and—”

Rainbow then muttered under her breath. “Yeah, that.” It was not a happy memory (what a stupid headdress).

“Rainbow…” Rarity said, rather annoyed by the brief interruption, causing Dash to make a zipping motion across her lips. “Anyway, as I was finishing up your dress, I saw you eyeing through the window a Ms. Lemony Gems.”

Rainbow gaped. She couldn’t remember that: why would she? She didn’t know anypony by the name of ‘Lemony’, but she listened on.

“Curious, to say the least,” Rarity pointed out, “but again, I couldn’t be sure, so I brushed it off and continued on the dress. Twilight came in a moment later, if I remember right.”

Rainbow took a moment to recall as much as she could from that day. She was so bored. How did Rarity even talk her into dressing up for Princess Celestia’s visit? Then it hit her. She must have been so bored that her gaze turned idly towards the window, trapping her gaze on that pony, Lemony Gem. It was all coming back to her: her yellow coat, aqua mane, that pink saddle skirt. Dash focused harder on that memory, recalling how the frilly skirt drew Rainbow’s attention to her...

“Wow,” she said, softly, “I think I did look at her.”

Rarity resumed as quick as she could. “I didn’t make a thing out of it back then, until the others.”

Dash’s ears sprang up. Who else was she caught staring at? “Then there was Golden Glory, Strawberry Sunrise, Silver Spanner...” Rarity nodded to herself. “That’s when I began to keep a closer eye on you.”

Had Rarity simply been mistaken, or did Rainbow truly have such a clumsily wandering eye like that? Rarity continued. “Then there was Golden Harvest, Cherry Berry, Lily Valley…”

Dash cringed at this, feeling as the whole of her life had become an open book. In recognition, Rarity tried to console her, saying: “Now mind you, darling, this was over the course of years.” It didn’t help, as the list still went on. “Sea Swirl, Helia…”

Rarity cocked an eyebrow towards the ceiling, taking a hoof to her chin, thinking, and tapping the other in midair as though to snap her fingers repeatedly, had she the fingers to snap. “Oh yes, and Apple Cobbler!”

Rainbow Dash blushed at this, particularly at the mention of Apple Cobbler. She, in fact, was the last eye-candy Dash could recall, looking somewhat like Applejack, only much prettier. Wait. Applejack. Cobbler was Applejack’s cousin. Her head veered slowly to the left, only to see a stunned expression on the dolled up farm pony’s face. After forcing a chuckle, Rainbow asked,

“Can you blame a girl?” She looked away as her blush intensified. Awkward silence filled the car once more, but it left as quickly as it came, as a drawn out chuckle gradually crept out of Applejack’s throat. No judgement, her reaction told Rainbow, who by now was feeling more secure in her fleeting attractions, even as the others tried in vain to repress their own giggles.

When the mild laughter died down, Rarity concluded: “It had taken me a while to connect all these occurrences, even the little ones, before I drew my final conclusion,” she said, hinting that there were many more instances left unsaid. Yet again, silence filled the air. Even the running sounds of the train had muffled a bit, as everypony absorbed everything Rarity had said.

“Geez Rare,” Rainbow Dash said, “it’s like you know me better than I know myself.” This was answered by a solemn smile from the ever astute fashionista.

Seeing how Rainbow Dash’s question had been answered, Applejack began to raise her question, “So RD, I was wondering—”

“AJ! It’s Twilight’s turn, remember?” Pinkie interrupted. Applejack was puzzled a brief moment, before thinking back to her question alongside Rainbow’s to Rarity,

“Oh yeah. Right.”

Twilight then turned to Rarity, saying: “Well, first, let me just say how impressed I am with you, Rarity. If I didn’t know any better, I’d say you have an eidetic memory.” Rarity blushed. “And the scientific observations you made and kept were simply brilliant!”

“TWILIGHT!” Pinkie moaned, eager for this game to continue.

“I’m getting there, Pinkie,” Twilight said, rolling her eyes, turning then to the friend in questioning. “So, Rainbow, you’ve known about this,” she shyly implied Rainbow’s sexuality, “for two years. How did you come to realize it?”

Rarity was also curious, but held her speech after seeing how strictly Pinkie was regulating the Q&A. Dash took a moment to formulate an answer, wanting to be as concise as Rarity had been in her answer. She took a deep breath.

“Well, I guess it happened around the time of tryouts for the aerial relay event of the Equestria Games.” She paused, catching a hint of Rarity’s accent in her own voice. She was trying too hard, so clearing her throat, Dash continued. “Anyway, Helia was there on the train with us, but I don’t think she had anything to do with it. It was when I was practicing with the Wonderbolts, uh…behind my team’s back.” Rainbow imparted an abashed look towards Fluttershy. Another memory which Dash wasn’t fond of having.

“I was passing the horseshoe baton to Fleetfoot. When she took it away I was like, ‘Awesome!’, and that’s when I was flanked by these two cheerleaders, cheering me on and, well,” Rainbow sought out the best words, but failed. “I don’t know. I felt ‘something’.”

Pinkie gasped at this. “Oh my goodness! Rainbow likes Spring Step, or Lilac Sky, or both!”

“Pinkie!” Twilight shouted, followed up by a glare from Rainbow Dash.

“It wasn’t like that, I just felt something. Maybe it was the thrill of the tryouts,” Rainbow said, with an uncertain expression. “Well, long story short, I went to bed that night, and began the next day wondering about myself.” About what specifically, Rainbow didn’t need to say.

Pinkie Pie, unable to contain herself, or withhold her thoughts, contributed to Rainbow’s answer: “…after a night of super sexy dreaming!”

“PINKIE!” Everypony else shouted in unison, topped by Rarity’s line. “Vulgar!”

It had suddenly hit Pinkie what she had just said, since she did not always think before speaking. It brought out a crimson blush through her pink coat.

“How embarrassing to be suspected of having such lewd dreams,” Twilight thought to herself. Considering the thought, she gave Rainbow a warm smile of understanding, and spoke up. “Not to say it’s wrong to have those kinds of dreams. I mean we all have them from time to—”

“Hey!” Rainbow interrupted, revealing no blush of her own, but rather, sheer annoyance. “I don’t remember what I dreamt the night before. Let me finish this story.”

Everypony straightened back up, Pinkie doing so with a sheepish grin. Dash sighed, thinking about where she had left off. “So anyway, the next day, I just thought ‘Am I…?’” She abstained from saying the next word. “But I couldn’t figure it out in one sitting.” Twilight nodded at this, steeling herself to hear about what happened the following two years.

“I started to mingle with a lot more ponies, both mares and colts, and saw how I felt with each one. It didn’t help, so I took to just watching other ponies. Eventually, it felt more like spying, which was not cool,” Rainbow added, scratching the back of her head contritely. Twilight cocked an eyebrow at what Dash had just expressed. Rainbow Dash, of all ponies, who had quite a notorious habit of spying, eavesdropping, pranking, sneaking up behind her friends to startle them out of their coats! Despite the sense of inconsistency, she urged her friend to tell more.

Rainbow let out a rough sigh. “The question just came and went, like—” She cast about for a metaphor. “Like the wind. You don’t know where it comes or where it’s going and not knowing just bugged me.”

Twilight understood well what she meant. Pegasi didn’t really have full dominion over the forces of nature, but were simply able to control and maintain them. Not knowing meant no control, which meant merely being cast about by the ‘wind’. Twilight had spent her whole life organizing, prioritizing, and planning out everything so as to not find herself in this situation. She read every book she could get her hooves on over the fear of not knowing something. Whenever it happened that Twilight couldn’t hold supremacy or some sense of omniscience, it drove her crazy. A flood of events came to her mind: Pinkie Sense, the future Twilight incident, the time she forgot to send Princess Celestia a report on friendship resulting in her enchanting her Smart Pants doll to create a friendship problem to resolve, and so much more. This wasn’t quite comparable to Rainbow Dash’s own problem she’d been grappling with, but Twilight sympathized all the same in those recollections.

In seeing her comprehend, Rainbow finished the statement.“Eventually, I had enough,” she said, waving her forehooves apart. “I just accepted and took it for what it was. The thoughts, the feelings, they were there, and that’s all there was to it.” She smiled with eyes shut, as though sharing a snapshot of the day she had made peace with herself.

It took only a second to realize that Rainbow was finished with her answer to Twilight when Pinkie Pie bounced. “My turn! My turn! My turn!” Dash’s eyes opened wide, fearing the absolute worse to come. This whole Q&A thing was Pinkie’s idea in the first place, and after experiencing her craze on the train so far, she braced herself. Pinkie was about to speak, but stopped, took a pondering hoof to her chin, and thought. Time seemed to stand still as she let out occasional giggles and snorts. It was the longest minute Rainbow had experienced, which ended with her barking out.

“Oh come on—”

“Have you ever kissed a mare?!” Pinkie Pie finally asked, soon after the complaint, fast as a flick of a switch. Dash rolled her eyes, answering neutrally,

“No, Pinkie, I’ve never kissed anypony before.”

“Never?” It was Applejack that raised the question again. Why was that so shocking? She flinched suddenly as Pinkie’s face shot forward and spoke.

“That counted as a question!”

“What?! Now wait just a cotton-picking minute!” This won the laughter of every other pony.

Fluttershy was still lost in residual giggles when she felt an elbow jabbing at her shoulder. “You’re up next, Flutters,” Pinkie Pie sang in a single note.

Had it been her turn already? Maybe she should pass. Could she? Would the rules of Pinkie’s game allow that? Did she even want to ask? Fluttershy had many such questions flowing in her mind as she tapped her hooves together, avoiding eye contact with anypony. Rarity hid her impatience as she addressed the hushed pegasus.

“Well? Go ahead, darling.”

Fluttershy opened her mouth, only to let out a high pitched short yelp. “Eeek! Um, maybe I shouldn’t,” she suggested.

“Come now, dear,” Rarity protested, “I’m sure it can’t be as outlandish as whatever Pinkie Pie would ask.” The aforementioned pony let out a dissenting “Hey!”. Rainbow, in the meantime had attempted to read Fluttershy’s mind, or at least her face, but she failed.

“Hey, Flutters,” Rainbow said, drawing Fluttershy’s attention, “you said I could tell you anything, right?” Fluttershy’s eyes widened as she nodded, to which Rainbow continued, “Then don’t be afraid me to ask anything.” At this, Fluttershy straightened herself up, cringing back a bit. Her blush grew like a burning ember that was just blown upon, and she asked:

“Well, it’s just that...” Hesitation caught her tongue for a moment, then at Pinkie Pie speed by the end. “You never looked at any of us like that, right?!”

The bluntness of the question caused everypony to gasp through their nostrils, in an attempt to avoid the audible open mouthed gasp. It was to no avail, as the five ponies’ rushed inhalation resembled the roll of a snare drum. Fluttershy’s eyes were locked onto Rainbow Dash’s, which blinked a few times.

“No,” she replied in neutral tone, shaking her head slowly. Her face began to scrunch up as she continued. “Sweet Celestia…”

Fluttershy tilted her head in confusion, unsure how she took to the question. The confusion ceased when Rainbow released a full on belly laugh, “BWAh-haha-ha-ha…” It dragged on to high squeaks. The others were speechless as they witnessed what seemed to be a more familiar Rainbow Dash, who by this point was rolling on the floor, laughing her flank off. Nopony else, safe for Pinkie, thought it was that funny; nevertheless, Rainbow’s infectious laugh was getting to Twilight, Rarity, and Fluttershy, who looked amongst themselves to see how each of them were holding up. Again, the train car had became a hotbed of hilarity.

“Oh, thank goodness,” Fluttershy followed up, working through her giggles. “I wouldn’t want anything getting awkward amongst us,” she added, shaking her head at her own silliness.

“Well now!” a disgruntled Applejack said, not taking well to Rainbow’s reaction. Twilight was still recovering from her merriment, prying open her right eye towards the only pony not laughing.

“Oh, come on, AJ, don’t be like that,” Twilight said. Like what, thought, suddenly occurring to Twilight? A possibility dawned on Twilight, and she resumed in a more curious tone. “AJ?”

“Now, don’t you be going there, Princess,” Applejack answered back, taking Twilight aback from being addressed so formally by a close friend.

Pinkie Pie intervened between giggles. “Yeah Twi, Applejack’s just all grumpy wumpy cause she keeps losing her turn.” It caused said pony to roll her eyes. “OR…she’s feeling all jealouscause Dashie likes her cousin Cobbler instead!”

“WHAT?!” Rainbow and Applejack blurted out together, with the latter’s voice seemingly lost. Dash outright denied Pinkie’s claim. “Oh no-no-no-no!”

Applejack, finding her ‘WHAT?!’ to be sufficient enough a denial towards Pinkie, fixed her glare on Rainbow Dash. “You know we both are practically twins, right?”

Rarity let out a rather vocal sigh. “Ehhh, sorry, dear, but your cousin’s coat is toffee, not orange, and her figure is more gracile—” Applejack blinked. “... Slightly more gracile,” Rarity amended. “Not to mention you two have quite different dispositions, which have a tendency to shine more than physical features.”

While Applejack considered these differences, Rainbow started to feel bad, as if somehow, she had made her friend feel less attractive. It was kind of too late to backpedal from this, so thinking quickly, Dash said:

“It’s okay, AJ.” She leaned her head on Applejack’s shoulder, getting her full attention. Then, switching to a hyper-feminine voice, she continued. “Even if I don’t feel the same way, we can always be friends.” She ended the tease with a huge grin and fluttering eyes. Applejack jumped back, almost sitting on Twilight.

“Whoa-ho there, silly filly! It ain’t like that, I swear!”

Not a second passed before laughter ensued again, causing Applejack to sigh. Rainbow elbowed the discouraged country pony, giving her an amused smile, bobbing her brows a couple of times. Applejack sent an annoyed glare back, but seeing her colorful friend wouldn’t blink, a smile began emerge, followed by a throaty chuckle.

It took a moment for the car to calm down, but laughter eventually was replaced by heavy breathing. Pinkie Pie announced:

“Next up, a pony who needs no special introduction! She’s the owner of TWO five star boutiques, giving her a TEN in my book! You know her, you love her, you can’t live without her—” Pinkie stopped herself a moment. “Well, you can live without her, but I wouldn’t want to. Who would? That’d be so super-duper sad.” She hanged her lower lip sadly, then resumed cheerfully. “Our one and only, not to mention fabulous,” she talked up, at some point producing a confetti explosion. “RARITY!”

The group turned to Rarity, who was seen vainly basking in Pinkie Pie’s flattery, taking the moment to fluff her mane. “Yes, thank you Pinkie,” she began, turning to Rainbow Dash. “There is one thing I do wonder. Are we the first?”

Rainbow blinked. The first what? Then it hit her.

“The first ponies I told? Yeah!”

Every mouth was agape, safe for Rainbow’s, which only gave a bashful grin. What were they all to make of this?

“Really?” Applejack asked. “We five here are the first?” Rainbow said nothing, but only returned a smug smirk. Realizing her repeated mistake, Applejack ground her teeth together and groaned. “Grrr, consarnit!”

“You really must be more careful, dear,” Rarity advised the aggravated farmmare. After snickering for a bit, Rainbow spoke up,

“It’s fine AJ, I’ll answer you anyway.” She gave her friend a wink.

“Don’t bother,” Applejack whispered, as her question was merely a rendition of Rarity’s, so she expected the same answer. Rainbow Dash, however, had a little more to say this time, and elaborated:

“I wanted you five to be the first because, well, you’re not just my friends. You are kinda my family.”

This had filled her friends with an odd mixture of both pride and humility. Even Applejack forgot how frustrated she was getting before.

What Rainbow Dash had just said may have moved Applejack more than any of her other friends, who reflected back to the day Flim and Flam almost manage to take away her farm and home in an ill-conceived gamble. The moment she recalled specifically was after Mare Mayor asked Applejack how she’d feel about her friends as “honorary family members,” joining in the cider competition. She remembered saying: “I think I'd love to have the rest of my family helping out,” and the five cheered.

“Oh shucks, RD, you old softy you,” Applejack sniffed, with watery eyes. She stopped herself as her lips began to quiver, and proceeded to give Rainbow the biggest hug she had ever given her. Meanwhile, Twilight, Fluttershy, and Rarity just sat in endearment, taking a hoof to their hearts. They each knew what the other was feeling, and that was enough.

Rainbow, however, was beginning to feel something else entirely. “Owww! AJ, my wing!” She cried, causing Applejack to release her hold of her friend, and blush in embarrassment.

“Sorry, got a might carried away there, huh.”

After shaking off and flexing her pained wing, Rainbow smiled and nodded. Another silent moment passed, as everypony basked in the love they felt for one another. What happened next, nopony would remember, but another wave of laughter, seemingly from nowhere, filled the car yet again.

Rainbow Dash could only think: Friendship really is magic.

Author's Note

[Definitely add more q&a, as more time is needed to reach Vanhoover]

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.

Chapter Three – Who Is She?

The train had finally reached Vanhoover, relieving itself of most passengers and welcoming new ones. On the car where Twilight and her friends remained, there was a knock on the door, startling Fluttershy. Before they could react, the door opened, revealing a slightly older stallion dressed in a navy blue shirt and a black visor. It was just one of the train attendants; Trusty Hooves was his name. He had checked up on the mares earlier and was the one who brought the glass of water for Rainbow Dash by Rarity’s request. He bore a cheerful countenance, which may have been birthed from a strict conduct of work, but for all anypony knew, he just enjoyed his occupation.

“How you kids doing,” he asked. Then, at the sight of Twilight Sparkle, he amended: “A-And Princess?” He honored Twilight with a gentle, unexaggerated bow.

“Really good,” Twilight said, “we’re having a great ride so far.”

“Good to hear!” Trusty grinned back. “I just came to tell you all that we’ve just arrived to Vanhoover and will be leaving shortly to the next station.”

Applejack reacted first, somewhat surprised. “Wow, already?”

Her attention was picked by a soft giggle across the booth. It was Fluttershy.“I guess time really does fly when you’re having fun.”

“Actually,” Twilight interjected, “on my last visit to Canterlot a few months ago, I attended a conference held in Celestia’s court, and there I learned about the upgraded magical railway system. The plan was called Operation LIGHTSPEED!” She said the last word intensely, as she waved her fore hooves apart, clearly expressing just how cool she thought it was. “The long and short of it involves—”

Oh, great, another of Twilight’s lectures. That was the thought on her friends’ minds.

“... A new alchemically powered engine, no more coal, which means less pollution. Also there’s a minute electromagnetic barrier between the wheels and tracks to reduce friction, allowing for faster travel, but at a stable pace, thus allowing the train to keep on its proper course.”

Twilight went on, despite already having addressed the cause behind their speedy arrival.

“Oh! And this is one my favorite parts: each car comes with a built in enchanted gyroscope, to monitor and control the behavior of the train as a whole, providing and maintaining smooth travel, as well as safety. It’s a brilliantly simple device, the components of which include merely a—”

“BORED!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed, slouching back in her seat, cutting off Twilight’s drawn out explanation.

Twilight then found herself being glared at by a cross-hooved Pinkie Pie, “Can’t you just not be a killjoy and leave it alone?”

At this, Twilight rolled her eyes. “Fine! I guess time really does fly when you’re having fun,” she conceded, echoing Fluttershy’s words. Pinkie sprung back to her gleeful self, making Twilight smirk despite herself, rousing more giggles to all present.

Trusty just experienced a sample of what had been going on this whole time. He smiled at the scene, but he did have a job to do. “Well, I can see you’ve all been having fun, so reading material is probably out of the question,” he mused, “but are any of you getting hungry or thirsty?”

Most spoke or hummed a negative, wishing to save their appetites, but Twilight was in fact beginning to realize just how hungry she was getting. She hesitated, not wanting to be the only pony eating, peer pressure and all. That’s when Applejack spoke up.

“I’ll just take an apple ifin ya’ll serve.

“One apple, coming up,” Trusty said, then placed a check on the box labeled apple within his lengthy notepad. “Anypony else?”

This was it, the moment she’d been waiting for. Applejack is eating, so why shouldn’t she? No pressure now, so Twilight began:

“I’d like to have a daffodil and daisy sandwich with a side of hay fries, large, and—”

“Mmm…?” Twilight was cut off by a murmur. It was Rarity, who eyed Twilight critically, from Twilight’s gaze down to her midsection, then back up to her eyes. Twilight took the hint and sighed.

“I’ll just take the daffodil and daisy sandwich,” she said, tilting her head as she stared back at Rarity as though to say “Happy?”. Rarity smiled back, fluttering her eyes as though in return “Quite.”

Everypony looked back and forth between the two mares, especially Trusty, who started speculating on just who was really in charge here. Despite the invisible conversation he was observing, he simply followed Twilight’s order to the letter. “Alright then,” he said, checking off on his pad the box labeled daffodil and daisy sandwich, and left it at that.

The train attendant, having finished off taking orders, bowed to the princess and her friends, and left. After the door was closed, Twilight looked at Rarity again, who seemed quite content with herself.

Just who does that prissy unicorn think she is? The thought arose in Twilight. It’s my body, I can do what I want! All I need is to double my exercise regimen, not give up everything I hold dear…I MEAN, DELICIOUS!

She caught herself. Twilight had been gaining weight recently, so at the recommendation of Rarity, she had been trying hard to work off the pounds. This, she had succeeded in doing, and was still able to wear her favorite, astral themed dress to the Gala.

But she still could have made the necessary alterations if I did get wider, she reasoned with herself. And besides, the dress fits now, I’m on my way to the Gala, what’s a few hay fries going to do in a matter of hours?

Her mouth began to water at the salty, deep-fried, far, and distant fries in her memory. I could have shared. That way, I didn’t have to eat too much, though the others didn’t seem needy, LIKE I AM.

Twilight’s forehead began to boil something fierce, suddenly catching herself. Wait, what am I thinking?! Rarity a friend, who only has my best interests at heart. Maybe not my best, but, no-no-no, I don’t need to eat. I am strong. I am Twilight Sparkle.

With that affirmation in place, she came back to the world with eyes still honed in on Rarity; oh, if looks could kill.

“Thank you, Rarity,” she forced out at last, not falsely so, but more with a hint of struggle against herself.

“Anything for a friend,” Rarity said with a wink.

Meanwhile, as the others’ focus was on Rarity and Twilight, Rainbow Dash had been seeking an opportunity to intrude between the stoked fires of the mares. She finally found one.

“Uh, everypony, I’ve got a question here,” she started, with a meekness almost worthy of Fluttershy. “If we’re still doing this Q&A thing, that is.”

Everypony’s ears perked up at this, directing their attention back to Rainbow. They each froze, still a little embarrassed that they had been so distracted; except for Rarity, who bore a smile suggesting she had been waiting for Rainbow to be the one to reel her friends back.

“But of course, dear,” Rarity insisted. “Ask away!”

Dash sighed. “This is to everypony here, I guess. This may sound like a dumb question now, anyway…”

“There’s no such thing as a dumb question,” Twilight asserted, and the rest concurred in hums. Rainbow continued.

“Well, it’s just, you’re all okay with this, right? You know, with me?”

The looks on her friends’ faces seemed familiar. Yes, they were the very same to appear immediately after she confessed about herself to everypony. Even Rarity shared the shocked expression.

Maybe it was a stupid question. Maybe the first Twilight ever heard, but she needed them to say it.

“Of course!” Twilight exclaimed cheerfully, as though she spoke for everypony. However, everypony would each give their own uniquely flavored answer. Applejack was the first to follow up.

“You’re still the same old cloudbusting Rainbow.”

“Not to mention our really good friend!” Pinkie Pie added.

“We love you, Rainbow,” Fluttershy said without the slightest hesitation.

Rarity was the last to speak. “You have this unicorn’s seal of approval, darling!”

As Rainbow closed her eyes, like curtains falling after a happy ending from a play, Applejack laid a hoof on Rainbow’s shoulder, and spoke.

“Remember: The six of us are united by the Elements of Harmony, and ain’t nothing gonna change that, partner.”

Twilight bounced off of that statement. “It was you, Rainbow, who ultimately brought the first spark to the magical connection we share, even before we knew each other.”

That reminder in particular brought a smile to Rainbow.

Whatever was going to happen that night, she thought to herself, her friends would be there for her. Of that, Rainbow was sure.

A knock on the car’s door was heard again, opening to reveal a cart pushed by Trusty. On top of it was an apple and a sandwich, the latter of which was taken abruptly by a magenta aura, and brought to an eager, half-starved alicorn. Twilight was certainly excited to take that first bite, which she took with much gusto.

How long had it been since she’s eaten? This morning?

Trusty finally came in, following the food cart, pretending not to notice Twilight’s hunger reflex. “We’re just about ready to leave Vanhoover,” he announced, and then turned towards Applejack. “Your apple, Miss.”

She smiled and grabbed the fruit from the cart accordingly.

“Now, if you all need anything else, just remember to ring the service bell,” Trusty said, directing his gaze to a tasseled rope hanging above.

“Will do,” Rainbow Dash said, rather hastily, eager to get back to the Q&A. With the rest of her friends sensing this, they each waved to Trusty, politely bidding his departure; except for Twilight, who was lost in her own little world at the moment. Trusty left, bringing the food cart with him, and closed the door.

Noticing how far gone Twilight was in her sandwich, Applejack had decided to take advantage of her missed turns once they returned to the Q&A. After taking a bite then out of her apple, she began to speak whilst chewing, much to Rarity’s displeasure.

“Oh my, seems like I’ve lost my turn earlier. I reckon it’d be Twi’s now, huh?” Twilight’s trance was brought to a halt, and she turned to Applejack, who shot her a smug smirk, but not facing her directly. Twilight’s cheeks blushed mildly, now aware of just how packed they were with flowers and sourdough bread.

Twilight forced herself to swallow down the half chewed bites of sandwich, gasping a bit, and gave Rainbow Dash a self-conscious chuckle. Her eyes then widened, realizing that she didn’t have a question to pose her friend: or if she had one, she long forgotten it.

“Think, Egghead!” Twilight thought, “Your friend had just came out with something big. You should be more interested! ‘When will you tell your parents?’ No, too critical! Plus we’re the first, so how could they...” She cast about, desperately trying to keep up with the gang. “Rainbow Dash is ‘gay’, simple as that! I’m okay, we’re okay, no need to get all analytical, but being more open about it just seems so important to her. What kind of a friend would I be if I came off as…DETACHED?!”

She began reviewing a question she had asked earlier, searching hard for something to build upon. Suddenly Dash began to feel lonesome, like the pony sitting a mere two seats away was more like a million miles off. It took Twilight a second more until she found something to ask. Perking up, and earning Rainbow’s attention, she formulated the question.

“So you say you’ve known for two years, but when you started debating yourself, you concluded that you ‘couldn’t figure it out in one sitting’.” Dash nodded, so Twilight continued,

“Well, later on you just said that, eventually, you just accepted. About how long was this process of acceptance?”

Rainbow’s eyes rolled up, as though searching for the answer along the dark rim of her vision.

“Uh, I think it took me about a month, maybe four weeks.” She then shot Twilight a rather fake smile, attempting to award her friend for taking some interest, but it was clear Dash was less than impressed by Twilight’s inquiry. Twilight tried pretending not to read into that, and went back to eating her sandwich, weighing the difference in her mind between the words ‘Guilty’ and ‘Pleasure.’

Applejack looked on, wondering if her little joke on Twilight was funny anymore. She could think of only one thing to fix the awkward position she had just placed both Twilight and Rainbow, and said,

“Uh, Pinkie Pie! You get on up now!” as if nothing weird had just transpired. Pinkie said nothing, but only made a series of humming sounds, taking a hoof to her chin, tilting her head occasionally as her eyes rolled more frequently across the roof of her vision. Rainbow was more afraid of what Pinkie was thinking than she was curious of what was going on in Twilight’s mind before. Applejack gulped, almost regretting what she had just done.

Pinkie was churning something alright. Applejack couldn’t bear the humming of the Party-licious Pie (The Tell-Tale Heart reference) any longer. “Uh, got nothing either, hun?”

Twilight shot a hot glare at Applejack, knowing very well what she did to her earlier.

“Oh no,” Pinkie said, suddenly poking out of her contemplation. “I have like a bazillion questions! Just which one to ask…?” She grunted, asking nopony in particular. A bead of sweat began to run down Rainbow Dash’s forehead, worrying about herself all over again, and about what was to come. Her first question hadn’t been that bad, but still, it was Pinkie. The thoughtful hums had gone on for far long enough. Rarity interjected,

“Sweetie, perhaps we should move on to Fluttershy, giving you more time to make your, ehhh...” she shuddered, “selection?”

Without a moment to consider, the deep thinking pony answered back, “Name’s ‘Pinkie’, not ‘Sweetie’,” she said, as though happily introducing herself for the first time. “And as for Fluttershy... Okey dokey lokey! Carry on!”

That came as a relief for Rainbow, who let out a big sigh. She was drawn back a moment later, as Fluttershy spoke up already.

“Um, Rainbow? There is actually something that has me, well, concerned,” she said, voice wavering. Rainbow nodded, bidding her to go on.

“Well, it’s just...” Fluttershy faltered again. “You haven’t told anypony about this,” she said, noticeably ashamed of the avoidance of that word, “for two years!” She emphasized the last two words with wide eyes, then proceeded to explain the significance of that time span, squinting her eyes as though affected by pain. “That must have been just awful for you!”

That wasn’t a question, but an opinion, so Rainbow kept her listening, with ears perked up, expressing naught but strict attentiveness.

Fluttershy finally got to the point. “With that in mind, I’d like to, no, need to ask: What was it like for you during those years? Was it lonely, not being able to tell anypony? Wasn’t it...” She gulped. “Scary?”

A candle lit in Applejack’s head, and she turned to Pinkie. “That there counts as three queries now, right?”

“Nope!” Pinkie popped out like a balloon, still being the ruling hostess she was of the game. “I call those COMBOES!!!”

“Oh course you do,” Applejack pouted, still resenting the loss of her turns.

Fluttershy had asked a good question, certainly better than Twilight’s. “Not really,” Rainbow Dash answered, shrugging. “Really, the hardest part was, to be honest,” she continued, smiling at Applejack, “the beginning, when I was finding out.” She rolled her eyes. “But that was more annoying than anything else, really.”

She then looked back to Fluttershy. “Aaand, well, the part where I was just telling you all this, right now. Between the two, though, I am still as AJ said.” She began flapping her wings, hoovering in the air. “‘The same old cloudbusting Rainbow’!” She then unleashed a thrusting buck back into the empty space. This won a sense of enthusiasm from her friends.

She resumed her seating after making that visual display and continued explaining. “I was still me, Rainbow Dash! I didn’t even think to tell anypony either. Why would I? I mean… Rarity,” she urged, turning to the pleasantly attentive unicorn. “You wouldn’t go around telling everypony how straight you are, would you?”

Rarity nodded. “Indeed, such a thing would be most uncouth. However… I wouldn’t mind letting a few stallions know I’m interested.” Her answer was dreamy, as though punctuated by fantasies. It seemed like Rarity too, like Twilight earlier, was lost to dreamland. Rainbow couldn’t help but notice Rarity’s state, so she rolled on,

“Anyhow, I just didn’t have any reason to come out with the fact that I was gay.” The way she said that caught Fluttershy off guard, saying that last word like it was any other. “I was still me,” Rainbow repeated, “and it wasn’t like I was active about it or nothing. But I knew that when, if I ever did…act on it…” She paused, letting the blush speak for itself. “I just had to let my friends, my family, in on it…you know?”

It was then that Pinkie Pie let out an intense and high-pitched gasp, causing everypony to retreat deeper into the booth seats, fearing for their lives for a brief second.

“Oh my goodness, oh my goodness, oh my goodness! Yes, yes, yes!”

“Pinkie! WHAT in the wide world of Equestria is it?!” Twilight lashed out, not the least bit happy by the shock.

After a giggle followed by a snort, Pinkie Pie spoke up. “I have my question.” She sang out the last syllable.

Everypony faced Pinkie, bracing themselves for whatever was about to come out of that Pie hole. Pinkie then turned her attention towards Rainbow, boasting a look that would be best be described as... flirtatious?

She leaned her head onto her left shoulder, having both forehooves joined at rest on her raised knees. Her face was tilted slightly downward, but her half-shut eyes were locked on Rainbow. The suspense was getting to all her friends, and Pinkie let it sink in for about three seconds. Finally, with the flutter of her eyes, she asked,

“Who is she?”

Four out of the five gave Pinkie a perplexed look. Rarity spoke for them all.

“A little presumptuous, don’t you think, dear?”

Pinkie’s head shook frantically. “Nope! It all makes perfect SENSE! I simply put one and two and three and five together, and from it all came out the one!”

Twilight took a moment, attempting to place that sequence of numbers into a basic mathematical formula. 1+2+3=6, subtracting 5 to equal 1, was Twilight’s first try, but Pinkie said ‘together’, so no subtracting. 1+2+3+5=11? She tinkered on, failed, and shook her head to drive the nonsense out. Applejack tried as well, but after likewise failing, she spoke up.

“Afraid we don’t follow, sugar cube.”

“Well, we have 1 Dashie, 2 years of her knowing this, 3 months since we received tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala, during which she was acting super weird, and 5 of us, her friends, whom she wanted to tell before she ever…So the answer can be none other than—” she paused, imagining a drum roll to herself, and then finishing in a whisper: “The One.”

Pinkie then directed the attention of the four perplexed ponies to Rainbow Dash. Their mouths gaped, taking a moment to soak in her expression. The lowered face, the soft smile, colored by a most revealing blush, her eyes gazing at each of them so relaxed. She looked peaceful, she looked happy, she looked—

After further, careful observation of every little detail, Twilight came out with her opinion.

“I’m pretty sure we’re all thinking it, so I’ll be the one to say it.” She turned to face Rainbow. “You are in love! By Sweet Cadence, you are!”

She looked so overjoyed by the realization: Rainbow Dash was in love. She looked up at Twilight, shaking her head slowly. Both Fluttershy and Rarity took a hoof to their mouths and upon looking to one another. Knowing what each other thought and felt, their eyes seemed to draw together, sharing an eager, reverberant “YeEeEeEeEeEe!”.

Fluttershy withdrew from the audibly magnetic force between herself and Rarity, saying:

“Oh Rainbow, I’m so happy for you!”

“As am I darling,” Rarity joined in. “I must say, I was aware of your—” She paused, intentionally coughing. “... Fleeting fancies, but I hadn’t the slightest clue that you narrowed your eyes down to one pony in particular.” Being composed on the surface, Rarity eventually devolved to a blatant, high-pitched demand. “Well come on, who is it? Tell me, tell me, tell me, tell me, tell me—”

“HOLD on a SEC!” Pinkie interrupted, glaring at Rarity as though she was stealing her turn away. Then, she gleefully mirrored the unicorn’s own giddiness. “Tell me, tell me, tell me, tell me!”

At this, Rainbow covered her eyes, exposing a tightly held grin, when a slightly more feminine than usual giggle creeped out through her teeth.

“Wow, Rainbow,” Twilight said, holding precious this never before observed demeanor. “I’ve never seen anything like this from you.” Then, narrowing her eyes almost villainously onto the giddy pegasus, she insisted: “Come on, spill!”

Applejack was the only pony able to contain herself in the car. She just smiled on quietly, perhaps so as to not delay Rainbow’s answer to what was probably the most exciting question yet. Before another voice took over, Applejack waved a left hoof in a soothing motion.

“Whoa now! Simmer down, everypony. Please, let the mare speak,” she insisted, dangling the same hoof midair. She leaned her head towards Rainbow, looking as far up as her eyes could go, beckoning with a single blink.

Dash cocked an eyebrow at Applejack’s referring to her as the mare, but she let it slide just this once. The question of ‘who is she’ came back to her, along with the smile it produced prior. This was definitely one she wanted to answer, but wouldn’t have mentioned had she not been asked.

“Well you probably know her, Pinkie,” she said, addressing the original inquirer, “seeing as how you know just about everypony in Ponyville…”

Her five friends leaned in close, each holding her breath at the suspense.

“Her name is…” Rainbow looked away, as everypony else’s eyes widened, as she looked back towards Pinkie, who waited with the big grin. “Summer Breeze.”

Immediately upon hearing this, Pinkie sprang up on her hind hooves in her seat, and began clapping and dancing and twirling around.

“Yes YES! I DO know her! She’s so super-duper awesome!”

Then, blinking twice in thought, she turned them into flirting eyes and waved with her hoof. “Not bad, Dashie.”

The others seemed lost, glancing from one to the other, wondering just who this mysterious mare was. Noticing that, Pinkie drew away from the others saying: “Seriously? None of you?”

Twilight, Fluttershy, and Rarity gave both Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash an apologetic smile. Applejack, however, was lost in thought, as she searched her memories.

“I threw her the Welcome to Ponyville Party just last year!” Pinkie moaned, saddened by the idea that her friends could forget any of her countless parties. Rainbow Dash kept quiet, seeing if any of her friends had even the slightest clue.

Twilight pondered on, when it hit her.

“Oh my gosh! I remember that party! While you went around hosting, the girls and I decided to give her some space: me especially, being royalty and all. I didn’t want her to feel intimidated. We just thought we’d let her ease herself in and—”

Twilight found herself cut off by the ticking of tsks from Pinkie, “I’m surprised at you all,” she said, giving her friends a judging stare. “You don’t just wait for newcomers to come to you. You run to them with open hooves and say ‘WELCOME!!!’”

Applejack seemed to be the most embarrassed by this. “Aww hayseed,” she muttered, catching Pinkie’s attention.

“You’re actually the only one excused, AJ,” Pinkie said.

“Oh?”

“It was zap-apple season at Sweet Apple Acres. You were busy all day bucking down the zap-apples before they disappeared. Can’t make that sweet jam without them, right?” she finished her point, alleviating Applejack of any fault. Pinkie then went on to Fluttershy, who flinched as Pinkie started talking about her, “and Fluttershy’s okay too, I guess, `cause you know she is super-duper shy with new ponies.”

Filled with a sense of redemption, Fluttershy nodded. “Thank you for understanding, Pinkie.”

“Yoouu’re welcome!” Pinkie replied back, and continued. “And then, lastly, we have Dashie.” Rainbow knew where this was going, offering a smile of consent for Pinkie to go on.

“Rainbow’s allowed to be shy too, seeing, you know, how much of a super special secret crush she has on Breezy!” Rainbow blushed at Pinkie’s cute nickname for her certain secret somepony, almost offended that Pinkie would call her that. With Applejack, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, and Pinkie Pie being thus exempt from fault, that left only two more, as Twilight and Rarity looked at each other. Rarity came out to Twilight, somewhat abashed,

“I suppose you and I, dear, do take the lead in our circle.”

Twilight nodded back, not saying a word, recalling how giving the new pony space was an ill-fated decision. Before another awkward silence could befall the car, Applejack spoke up,

“Welp, what’s past is past now. ‘All water under the bridge,’ as Granny Smith would say.”

“Applejack’s right,” Fluttershy supported. “We may not have gotten to know Summer Breeze then, but we’re here now talking about her, right?” She directed the question towards Pinkie as moderator of the Q&A Time. Pinkie then pointed to the pony sitting to Fluttershy’s left, to whom Fluttershy said, “Oh my, yes, well…I suppose it’s your turn now, Rarity.”

Rarity jumped right on that, and saw this as a sort of second chance in getting to know this Summer Breeze.

“So, tell us about her!” She demanded to know right away.

Rainbow was quiet for a moment, then narrowed her eyes and smirked. This had left Rarity puzzled as to the cause of such a look. She waited for Rainbow to say something: anything, really. The uncomfortable silence was brought to an end as a long, drawn out hum reached Rarity’s ear. She saw it was Pinkie Pie who had been making the inquisitive sound.

“Oh!” Rarity realized, rephrasing her petition to a question with a more neutral tone, “I’m sorry, dear. What is she like?”

Rainbow first snickered, sharing a distant hoof bump with Pinkie.

“Well, first, she’s athletic. Like, really really athletic!”

Applejack elbowed Rainbow and dropped a comment: “Well, that makes sense, thinking of you.”

“Yeah,” Rainbow agreed, “she’s so quick and lasting on her hooves. You got to see to believe!”

“Sounds to me like she’s an earth pony,” Twilight observed, turning to see an indignant Pinkie.

“Were you even there at the party?” Pinkie asked. Twilight bit her lip, reminded of the black mark on her. Rainbow only seemed to notice Pinkie talking, but not what exactly she said, as she got right back to talking.

“She’s got to be the fastest runner in all of Equestria!”

Applejack chuckled at what was just said. “Sounds like a smart match then, seeing as you’re the fastest flyer.”

Rainbow blinked, making her friends realize how much she didn’t see the parallel.

“You think?”

‘Think what?’ was on her friends’ minds. That Rainbow was the fastest flyer or that the match between her and Summer seemed smart? ‘Maybe a little bit both’, they each decided. This was sounding like a lot more than just a crush.

Applejack chuckled. “So how fast you reckon she is?”

“AJ! Your tur—” Pinkie broke into the sentence, but Applejack resisted firmly.

“I don’t care, Cousin Pinks! I really don’t! I wanna know!”

Seeing in her mind’s eye the fierce, static lightning bolt that had sparked between the feuding fourth cousins, Rainbow had to pick a side. The decision was by no means difficult.

“Whoa girls, we’re cool! I’ll take it,” she said, causing Pinkie to break from the staring match with Applejack. Seeing this was about Rainbow and Summer and not about her running the show, Pinkie smiled sheepishly, and returned to her seat. It took Dash some time to think it over, whilst at the same time daydreaming of her.

“Well,” she finally said, relieving her friends with the knowledge that she was still with them, “I think I’ve seen her running a good 70 miles an hour, for THREE hours! And that’s without all the boring train stuff Twi was talking about.” The way she said an hour had made Twilight wince, then roll her eyes.

“Per hour,” Twilight corrected. “70 miles per hour, is what you meant to say.”

This earned a roll of Rainbow Dash’s eyes. “Whatever, Egghead.”

With Twilight’s use of proper grammar satisfied, Twilight resumed the conversation. “But that’s actually quite impressive! The fastest runner I knew before today was back in my foalhood. I got to see him, Roadbolt was the name, at the Canterlot Racetrack with Princess Celestia during my studies and—” She stopped for a moment, noticing the strange looks she was being given. “… Well, it’s more like I was forced to go. ‘You need to get out more, come with me to the tracks’” she mimicked someone else’s voice. It was clearly not a happy day for her, but she still remembered certain details. “Anyway... Roadbolt broke top records that day, at a maximum speed of 53.241 miles an hour…PER HOUR!” Twilight blushed, hoping a fake cough would provide enough distraction. Nopony seemed to notice, so she concluded, “If what you say is accurate, Rainbow, she could be famous!”

“Oh no-no-no-no! Summer wouldn’t let that happen, she’s much too modest!” Pinkie Pie rose up against the conclusion. Twilight chewed on that thought.

Summer’s humble, huh? So she’s not a show off like Rainbow typically is, therefore Rainbow’s pride isn’t crushed… ‘crush’? No, so far the basis of her crush rests on how much of an athlete she is, possibly comparable to Rainbow, thereby finding an equal to admire? But if Summer’s not a show off, how did Rainbow…Ahh!

Twilight had her question, and a good question at that. Pinkie had been watching Twilight think up until she had the look of epiphany, and said,

“So now that’s all settled...Twilight!”

“Yes,” Twilight said, with a proud smile. “Rainbow, you just told us, as far as you know, that Summer’s approximate speed is 70 miles per hour, but after I suggested how she could go down in history as the fastest runner, assuming you were accurate, Pinkie announced that she’s too modest to hold such a title.” Rainbow was baffled at the thesis, wondering where this was heading. Twilight continued, “That makes no sense! Which tells me you had some sort of secret access to her personal life when nopony else was looking.” Rainbow was beginning to understand the direction of Twilight’s thought process, and readied her answer to the probable question. With a sly expression, Twilight asked, “So, what’s the story behind how you found out how fast she is?”

Twilight’s question caused everypony to strike wide eyes at Rainbow Dash. The pegasus did seem to have some explaining to do.

“Well, for starters,” Rainbow Dash said, “you were right, Pinkie. I was shy at the party, `cause I did have a …crush. I knew she was awesome even before that day.”

“Oh?” Twilight asked, a question Pinkie Pie chose not to count.

“Yeah,” Dash continued. “I first saw her the very day she moved to Ponyville. Sunshower and Derpy, well, they were struggling with a sofa.” She chuckled at the memory of the two goofs. “So, I swooped in to lend a hoof, and that’s when I saw her. She stepped out, and I gawked! Just the way she was built, and when she bent down to smell the rose…”

Twilight stopped her. “I don’t think we need to hear about—”

“Please, can’t you see she’s prefacing here?!” Rarity exclaimed. From Twilight, she turned to Rainbow, declaring softly: “It must have been love at first sight.”

“Yeah,” Rainbow Dash confirmed in a whisper. “It really was…” Rarity and Fluttershy joined heads as the let out a gentle, “Awww!”

Quickly coming back to herself, Rainbow went on. “That’s when I saw her cutie mark! I couldn’t tell for sure at first, but it looked like a pair of forehooves, mid-run. Doesn’t take an egghead to figure out what her special skill was.”

Twilight was getting impatient, “Rainbow?”

“I’m getting there, I promise! …I took off before she could see me. That was the first day I saw Summer Breeze, four days before the welcome party.” She sighed, and looked down. “I couldn’t even help bring the sofa in to say ‘hi’. Been a year now, but I’ve never had the guts to even approach her.” This only added more mystery for Twilight. So much for the secret ongoing love affair hypothesis. Rainbow continued, “So, two days later, I was in the middle of bringing clouds into Ponyville, when I saw her again. She was running out of town, so I got curious and followed. Summer was just bolting away, like she was running for her life. I looked back for any sign of trouble: Parasprites, timberwolves, an angry mob, Pinkie Pie—”

“HEY!” exclaimed the named mare.

“But there was nothing coming after her,” Rainbow resumed, “So I thought she must have hurrying to get somewhere. I kept myself high up, hoping she didn’t notice me, because…I don’t know. I just had to see where she was heading.”

“Spying. I should have figured,” Twilight summed up.

“Yeah,” Rainbow said with a blush, ashamed, but she continued. “But anyway, Summer just kept running for hours, so long I had to stop flapping my wings and start gliding. It didn’t seem like she was going anywhere, so eventually I thought ‘Okay, this is getting weird now!’, but it was still amazing to see her just keep going!”

“And ‘70’?” Twilight honed in, getting now just how strong a runner this was, but still wanting to know how Rainbow landed on that number.

“Right, so... Riding the wind now, I flew overhead of Summer to check her speed. I knew how fast I was going, and wasn’t the least bit surprised, `cause I’m awesome!” She broke into a pose oozing of smugness, then broke from her haughty expression. “But it was amazing Twilight! I’ve never seen an earth pony go that fast, and for that long, too! I had to see this through to the end.”

She was getting excited now, as Twilight became captivated herself by this account. She had her answer now, but wanted to hear more. Applejack was getting impressed by this time also, and she dropped a comment,

“Golly, Rainbow! I was led to believe she could outrun me, but it sounds like she nearly ran your wings off too!”

“I know, right?!” Rainbow Dash enthused. “I mean, I outflew ex-wonderbolt Wind Rider’s wing record, and I can break the color spectrum in short bursts, but keeping up that long with Summer Breeze was just rough on these feathers.” She paused for a moment to wobble her wings a bit, reminded of that past soreness.

“The day was, like, almost over, but it looked like she was increasing her speed, so I can be way off with what I guessed before,” Rainbow admitted, making Twilight take a hoof to her mouth. “That’s when I felt she must have been sprinting for the finish line. ALL THE WAY OUT THERE, all the way into the San Palomino Desert.”

Rainbow looked proud for a moment, resting the back of her head on crossed hooves. Whether her pride was in herself or in that certain secret somepony of hers was undetermined. Her friends were silent, wondering how such a pony as Summer could even exist, as an earth pony anyhow. It seemed so surreal to them, beyond natural. Even potential magic steroids were on Twilight’s mind for the moment.

“She never stopped,” Applejack muttered to herself. This didn’t escape Dash’s ears.

“No, not ever! The only way she rested seemed to be by slowing her pace from time to time. She walked when the terrain got rough, but I never once saw her stop.”

It seemed Rainbow Dash was finished with her story, but Twilight had yet to satisfy her curiosity.

“And then…” Twilight said, hinting at the continuation as ‘what happened next?’ Rainbow looked like she was in a peaceful trance, but jolted back at those two words from Twilight. She offered an apologetic smile.

“Uh, sorry, Twi. I was kind of…somewhere else.”

“Oh, I’m sure,” Twilight teased. “I’d like you to conclude this now. Take us to the finish line.”

“Right. So, Summer Breeze entered the desert, going... Celestia knows where.” Rainbow took a hoof to her chin in thought. “Actually, I don’t even think the Princess herself could have guessed. Anyway, so she was running toward the edge of a cliff. I was totally flipping out, but I didn’t want her to know I was following. ‘What is she doing’ I thought. But that’s when she slowed her pace again. I couldn’t stop, so I swerved right, managing to hide behind a cloud.”

Everypony then nodded frantically, as if pleading Rainbow for more.

“Finally, Summer stopped, right there at the edge. She sat there, looking out west. I did the same, to see what was out there. Didn’t seem like much other than desert, so I looked back at her. She was just... Smiling. So I looked ahead again, and then it hit me. ‘A SUNSET!’ I thought, ‘She ran half day, into the middle of nowhere, TO WATCH A SU—’”

She paused, nearly giving her friends a heart attack. Rainbow indicated the quickened pulse of her friends.

“That’s what I was like as I looked back at her,” Rainbow sighed again, lowering her eyelids. “The wind was picking up, right against her face, and took her mane in the air. It was just like…”

She paused again, searching for just the right words. By this time, the two romance-buddies Fluttershy and Rarity were holding each other’s hooves, being totally immersed into the scene Rainbow was painting for them. Fluttershy could no longer contain herself, so she broke from her polite silence, attempting to finish Rainbow’s thought,

“…The most beautiful thing you’ve ever seen?” She received a confirming nod. “Oh, Rainbow, then that’s the most beautiful story I have ever heard!”

Even Rarity was moved: her eyes glistened with tears unshed. She had read better romance novels than this brief account, but the feelings were still there, and what story she perceived in Rainbow just struck her at the heart.

After a moment of admiration washed over the car, and seeing that Rainbow’s story answered Twilight’s question, it was Pinkie Pie’s turn to ask.

“So, Dashie,” she said, letting out the cutest expression she could muster. “What does she look like?” This question was incredibly baffling to Rainbow, made obvious by her own expression.

‘Huh?’ was the one and only thought going through her mind. Hopelessly unwise to Pinkie’s intentions, she finally objected. “What do mean? You’ve met her before. I’ve seen you and her hang out all the time. You were the one who gave her the ticket in the first... place....”

Rainbow looked around, only to see smirking from Twilight and Applejack, while Rarity and Fluttershy simply stared.

“A tad bit on the creepy side, don’t you think, dear?” Rarity asked.

Pinkie was about to shoot Rarity upcoming turn down, but after inhaling to speak, Applejack cut in,

“Oh pipe down there, Pinks. Forget the rules! You got her tickets to the Gala now?”

Pinkie sighed, answering in a voice most unnaturally neutral for her. “Huh! Yes, I was the one who wrote to Princess Celestia requesting the tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala for the second time so that Summer Breeze could go again.”

The others, excluding Rainbow, shared the collective thought, ‘Second Time?’ Pinkie, observing the perplexed gazes, continued, with a roll of her eyes.

“It was a month before the last Gala when she first arrived to Ponyville. After getting to know her and finding out what a super duper friend she can be, I wanted her to go! Sooo I wrote to the Princess asking about it and she agreed. Summer had such a super-duper-ly fantastic time last year, so I wrote to the Princess again and she agreed. Again. Derpy put the ticket in my mailbox, four months ago, and gave it to Summer as a surprise.”

“Ohhh,” the four curious friends, excluding Rainbow Dash, mumbled together in comprehension.

“Rain-bow! My ques-tion!” Pinkie moaned, after so flatly elaborating on how she gave the tickets to Summer. Rainbow was unsure if her friends still remembered how much of a snooper she had accidentally exposed herself to be, but, wishing to move on from the subject, spoke up.

“Right. That. But first, I wanna know why you even asked that.”

Pinkie began to smile again. “Be-caauuse…I want to hear how you describe her,” she said, preserving a look of innocence. “Also, I want our friends to know what she looks like!” Her face suddenly fell into a grimace, and she stared off into space with a scowl, grumbling to anypony listening. “Since, y’know, they didn’t get to meet her at the party.”

Before any visible signs of rekindled guilt, Pinkie began to nuzzle the cowering pegasus seated next to her, reminding Fluttershy of how she was pardoned. Applejack rolled her eyes, and Twilight smiled in feigned innocence as she nervously scratched the back of her neck.

After quickly shaking off the guilt, Rarity brightened up. “I concur, darling. Your answer will make your earlier romantic tale from earlier that much more complete.”

Once again, a fervent blush had dominated Rainbow’s cheeks. She chuckled. “You’ve got a point Rare.” And again, everypony directed smiling faces towards their rosy cheeked friend. Pinkie urged on,

“C’mon, Dashie, tell us all how super cute and pretty she is!” Curious eyes suddenly fell upon Pinkie, who then whined, “Whaaat? She really is pretty. I don’t need to like mares to see that!”

“Um, maybe we should just, um, let Rainbow tell us, you know? Without anypony pressuring her?” Fluttershy suggesting, patting Pinkie’s shoulder. Pinkie shrugged and smiled back in agreement, and let Rainbow go on.

“Thanks, Flutters,” she said. “Well… Her legs are long, for starters, so I guess she is a little taller than me—”

“That would make more sense,” Twilight observed, “as longer legs tend to increase one’s speed.”

Rainbow, with her hooves joined, looked adoringly up to the ceiling. “They do, don’t they?!” She cried, fluttering her eyes with a big grin. That little display came as endearing to her friends. There was no turning back then, Dash had to go on.

“So anyway, her coat is orange, her mane and tail are yellow, and her eyes—”

“Say what now?” Applejack interrupted. Rainbow then looked to Applejack who, looking spooked. “You mean, like…like me?”

Rainbow seemed confused, but it didn’t take her long to understand.

“Oh no! Not like you, AJ,” she claimed, becoming embarrassed by her misleading generalization. “Just, you know, different. Like…”

“Perhaps this will help out,” Rarity’s voice was heard, causing Rainbow to turn, and to see a chart held out before the unicorn by a well-known bluish aura.

Rainbow Dash scanned the chart, which displayed numerous small, square tiles of various colors, each accompanied by a unique name. It was a color reference chart. She began to skim through the many names: Coquelicot, Eucalyptus, Hot Magenta, Mystic Maroon, Periwinkle, (Princess Perfume?), Quinacridone Magenta, Taupe Gray, Ultramarine Blue, Zinnwaldite Brown, and so many more. Rainbow looked up with shock in her eyes, only to see the smiling fashionista, whose horn glew, nodding in encouragement. She looked back down to the chart, then back up to Rarity. Rainbow brows fell flat, as she returned an annoyed glare.

“Seriously?” she asked. Only Rarity would carry such an item with her everywhere she went.

Her smile ever resilient, Rarity brushed off the question. “Never you mind that now, just look.”

Rainbow, saying nothing, rolled her eyes, but ultimately acquiesced and began to study the chart. It didn’t take much time, as two colors jumped out at her. She marked them with a pencil provided by Rarity, as Rarity read them off to the group.

Using Rainbow’s earlier general color choices, Rarity reviewed the marked selections “Let’s see... Oooh.” She seemed impressed, “Looks as if Summer Breeze has a Butter Yellow/Orange coat. As for her mane and tail, well, they are just a gorgeous Yellow!”

“So…not like me?” Applejack was lost, urging Rarity to clarify the distinction.

“Yes, your coat leans more towards a Rajah Orange/Yellow. And while Summer seems to wield a bright sunny yellow, your mane and tail are actually instead Shalimar, a much lighter shade…or are you more a pale, light grayish olive…?”

Rarity’s voice drifted off, as did her eyes from Applejack onto her color reference chart, forsaking the world around her. Rainbow Dash and Applejack looked on with blank faces, then glanced at each other. Rainbow then said hesitantly,

“I always thought of you as a hay-head, but hey, ‘apples and oranges’ right? I mean—” She suddenly looked away, and Applejack shot her a censoring glare. While this happened and Rarity was gone from Equestria, a faint snickering caught everypony else’s curiosity. They glanced around the car, unsure as to the source of the sound. They then turned to Fluttershy, who was seen with tightly shut eyes, doing her best muffle herself with her hooves. When the pegasus took a peek through them, her eyes shot open and the snickering stopped with an,

“Eep!” . Now she hid behind her rosy pink mane, and contritely whispered, “s…s-Sorry, AJ. Um…Rainbow, I don’t think that helps mu—” She slapped a hoof to her mouth and her blushing cheeks inflated. It was no use, as Fluttershy’s face slowly retreated deeper into her mane until she was seen no more. Now safe in her own little space, laughter burst through her lips, hopelessly unable to contain herself.

Laughter from Fluttershy was not an unknown occurrence, but in previous instances, it came out much gentler than how it was now. This was fuller, livelier, and even more infectious. Not having experienced immunity to this new phenomenon, Applejack’s dimples began to peak and she let out a throaty chuckle. Rarity had come back from her trance to find all her friends laughing, leaving her puzzled as to what had transpired in the past few minutes, until she, too, was coerced into laughing along. After the hilarity died down again, Rarity got back to the subject at hoof,

“Well, now I certainly have a better picture of this Summer Breeze of yours, Rainbow. I can imagine how you’ve taken quite a liking for her.” The others offered Rainbow a concurring hum, Applejack sounding the softest, as she was still grappling with the slight color differences made earlier.

“Yeah, yeah,” Rainbow replied with a hint of sarcasm. “Just call me Rainbow Crush now why don’t you.” Her imponent smile seemed to suggest she was serious, and would be open such teasing.

“We’ll get to that later, dear,” Rarity joked with a wink. “Now, let’s peer into her soul,” she continued, tilting her face down, still looking up. Rainbow was lost as to Rarity’s meaning.

“She’s talking about her eyes, Dash. Ever hear the phrase ‘eyes are scrying orbs to the soul’?” Twilight revealed, flatly.

Rainbow blinked. “Um, not really, no,” she admitted, causing Twilight to smack her face. “But now that you mention it,” she went on, blushing again, “I can’t say that’s wrong.”

As Twilight’s hoof finished journeying down her face, she decided to let ignorance to her Star Swirl the Bearded reference slide. She pursed her lips to Rainbow, giving a swirl of the hoof, motioning her to proceed, and also intending to lend a hint regarding the reference. Rainbow Dash would never catch on to Twilight’s Star Swirl gesture, but she went on.

“Yeah, so, Summer’s eyes... Ugh, they sure are something.”

Pinkie was getting really impatient by this point. “Oh, c’mon! Tell them, tell them, tell them!”

“Okay, alright!” Rainbow lashed out. After sighing, she continued, with a hint of awe. “Blue. They’re just so awesomely blue!”

“Oh?” Rarity poked in. “Anything like mine, perhaps?”

Pinkie giggled at this. “As if!”

Not taking kindly to how Pinkie answered, Rarity thrust her face away from the group with a contemptuous hmph. This amused Applejack, and she chuckled at the salty unicorn. This was not lost to Rarity, which pretended not to notice a moment, but eventually shot out a pointing hoof at Applejack as she hissed out,

“APPLE COBBLER!” Caught completely off guard by the direct reminder, Applejack’s laughs were brought to a sudden halt. Remembering the discussion of Cousin Cobbler from earlier, her face fell annoyed, and she crossed her hooves. As Applejack slouched in her seat, she spaced out as though retreating into her own space, and muttered,

“‘Water under the bridge’, that’s what she said, ‘All water under the bridge’!”

The train car experienced another momentary awkward silence, as Rarity reveled in her small victory. Twilight, wishing to move on from the tension, turned back to a withdrawn Rainbow Dash,

“So... Blue like you, Rainbow?” Breaking her attention from little spat between Rarity and Applejack, Rainbow looked down at her body,

“Huh? No, I mean... Closer, I guess, but more…” Rainbow speech faded out as she found the color reference chart levitated before her again by Rarity’s magical aura. Without a second thought, she began scanning the alphabetically arranged colors, almost wishing they were sorted by color instead. At last, she found the color of Summer Breeze’s eyes: the same that Rainbow held dear to her heart. After a check was placed next to the tile, Rarity levitated the chart back to see just what sort of blue Rainbow found so appealing. She drew her face back, revealing an impressed smile.

“Can’t say I’m the least bit surprised,” Rarity said, “since her name is Summer.” Rainbow tilted her head slightly, being confused, as she merely pointed out the color, but spared no time to read the name that accompanied it. “Summer Sky,” Rarity whispered back. “And how appropriated, seeing as you are a pegasus.” She rolled her eyes in amusement at the thought of sky.

“So, not like Rainbow?” Twilight asked, mirroring Applejack’s tone from earlier.

“Columbia,” Rarity answered.

“Who?”

“Rainbow’s coat is Columbia blue, a much lighter cyan.”

Twilight was taken a bit by Rarity’s quick reply. “You have that whole chart memorized don’t you?”

Rarity didn’t say a word, but instead flipped her hair and beamed a knowing smile.. Twilight rolled her eyes, but not wishing to be hypocritical (being herself well studied on a variety of other subjects), she moved the subject back to Rainbow.

“Well, she does sound very beautiful. I never thought I’d ever see you so spellbound like this.” She tittered a moment at her choice of words. “I’m really happy for you, Rainbow.”

Rainbow didn’t respond in words, but returned a thankful smile to Twilight.

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.

Chapter Five – The Plot

The train was about half an hour away from Canterlot, from the Grand Galloping Gala, as Rarity and Rainbow Dash continued to practice the Northern Waltz. Rainbow’s motions, sways, and steps had become flawless, much to the delight and entertainment of Twilight, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy.

Rarity was then repeating her final instructions, “…Lean in, touch noses, back, and bow…” and did her best to mirror Rainbow’s bow instead of doing so of her own accord. “And with that,” she declared, “you’re ready!” More applauding and cheering came from the other four, urging the dancing mares into giving a bow to their audience.

Of the four then, Twilight voiced her opinion, “I’m sure we’re all thinking it, so I’m just saying it, but this is probably the best ride to the Grand Galloping Gala we’ve had yet.” Everypony else expressed their undoubted agreement, after which Rarity was caught up in a big hoof and wing hug by Rainbow.

She returned the hug most jubilantly, until it was too much, “uh, darling, my dress…” she let out gently.

Rainbow, understanding, jumped back with an apologetic smile, “Sorry, it’s just, I can’t thank you enough for…”

Rarity interrupted, “Just pay the hundred bits and we’re square love,” and gave an innocent smile. Rainbow blinked, having missed something.

“She’s right Dashie,” Pinkie said, who was holding up a stop watch, which about five seconds later chimed, “It’s been an hour, Rainbow, you dance super-duper great, so now you owe Rarity a hundred bits!”

Rainbow had forgotten, but after that reminder, she conceded with a chuckle, “Hey, if this works out tonight, I’ll owe you a hundred and twenty bits!”

“We’ll worry about that later love,” Rarity said, then turning to the others, “but for right now we need to get these two together!”

Twilight, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy returned Rarity looks of confusion. They need to get Rainbow Dash and Summer Breeze together?

Applejack, being the most logical mare in the room next to Twilight, raised a hoof asking, “And how you reckon we all pull that off?”

Fluttershy concurred, “um, Applejack’s right Rarity, we can’t just force…” then was swiftly cut off by Rarity.

“But we can, and we must!” she said, with absolute determination, “and I have the perfect plot!”

Twilight put a hoof to her chin, urging Rarity, “Go on…” skeptical of whatever she had in mind. Pinkie Pie added more fervor to Twilight’s urging.

“Yeah Rare! Go on, scheme Rare, scheme, scheme!” Pinkie insisted.

Then with a raised chin, Rarity said, “I shall,” turning eyes back to everypony, “Come my girls, huddle, huddle!”

Rainbow cocked an eyebrow at Rarity’s controlling nature, but was the first to throw a hoof on Rarity’s shoulder. The rest shrugged, got up from their seats, and approached the two. Pinkie seemed the most optimistic as she bounced her way to Rarity. They all formed a circle, ready to hear what Rarity had to say. Why she wanted to do this in the huddle, nopony would ever know.

Rarity slowly scanned from side to side, making sure she had her friends’ undivided attention. She opened, “Now girls, our mission tonight is of the utmost importance. Each Gala yearly since our first together, we each had hoped for our own best night ever. Ever since the first also, we were always there for each other, like apple pie.” This made Applejack smile and roll her eyes in amusement.

“BUT!” everypony’s attention sharpened at Rarity’s raised voice, “this night will not be our best night ever,” all were hanging to her words, “we are going to make this Rainbow’s best night ever!” Nopony reacted, having somewhat expected such an opening, but they wanted to hear more.

Pinkie Pie quickly grew impatient, “Come on Rarity! What can I do? What can I do?!”

Rarity thrust her gaze on the eager Pinkamena, “Oh I have an important role for, Diane,” using Pinkie’s middle name, sounding intense, “but first things first. Twilight!”

Twilight’s focus on Pinkie shifted to Rarity, still looking skeptical, as Rarity continued, “You will be at Princess Celestia’s side this evening greeting the guests. You already know Summer Breeze’s base colors. Remember! Butter Yellow/Orange coat, Sunny Yellow mane and tail, Summer Sky Blue eyes. Can you remember?”

Twilight nodded, wishing to hear further. “When you see her, you will give Fluttershy the wink.”

Fluttershy knew she was getting involved, but she still acted surprised asking, “Me?” Rarity nodded, “Yes you, Fluttershy. You will be hiding in the chandelier hanging over the line of guests as they are greeted by the Princesses. Remember Twilight, she’s hiding in the chandelier.”

Twilight nodded again, slowly becoming convinced that Rarity might just have something good here. Rarity turned her gaze back to Fluttershy, “After Twilight signals the arrival of Summer Breeze, you will alert Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, and myself that our mare has arrived.” Rainbow then sneered at Rarity a critical look asking, “Uh, since when did Summer become our mare?” raising then eyebrow.

Pinkie bounced excitingly, disturbing the huddle circle, “Oh boy, oh boy! Me next,” repeating on a higher note, “me next!”

Rarity rolled her eyes frustrated, letting out a sigh of exasperation, and said, “Yes Pinkie, you next. Since you already know Summer Breeze and are most ostensibly her friend, you be will acting as Rainbow’s wing pony.”

Pinkie looked disappointed and wined, “Aww! But Dashie said being wing pony stinks! Oh wait, if I’m going to be the wing pony, then that makes her the lead pony, since she is doing the leading and…”

Rarity barked out, “Not that kind of ‘wing pony’!” understanding Pinkie’s mix up with recollection to the Wonderbolts Academy and mixing it up again with Rainbow’s position in dancing.

After shaking out Pinkie’s ecstatic energy, she explained, “A wing pony, or wingmare let’s call it, is the pony who supports her friend when approaching a potential mate of said-friend.” Pinkie blinked, seeming confused. Rarity sighed again, getting agitated, “Your role involves being by Rainbow’s side and introduce her to Summer Breeze. You will then begin talking her up, mentioning all of her good qualities,” carefully placing that filter over Pinkie’s mouth, “and likewise, introduce Summer to Rainbow, telling her how marvelous she is, as though there were no plot ahoof! Understand?”

Pinkie said nothing, but only nodded wildly. Hopefully she comprehended Rarity’s explanation, hopefully.

This was all sounding pretty good to Twilight. Had Rarity choreographed other ponies’ relationships like this before? She seemed rather experienced with all this, but something still bugged her about this plan. Finally after Pinkie’s role was laid out.

Twilight decided to raise her concerns, “But Rarity, guests will already be arriving by the time we get to Canterlot, so how do we know Summer Breeze isn’t already there? I might not have a chance to see her and signal Fluttershy! The new railway system has taken us from Ponyville, through Vanhoover, and only now are we on our way to Canterlot. Summer, however, assuming she’s as fast as Rainbow Dash claims, can simply travel straight from Ponyville to the Grand Galloping Gala.”

Rarity was about to speak, but Twilight urgently rolled over, “Second, are we sure we want Pinkie Pie to be the wingmare? You think she can handle herself in a situation like that?”

Pinkie Pie took resentment to that exclaiming, “Hey!”

Ignoring the dissension, Twilight continued, “Why not get maybe Applejack to…”

Now it was Rarity’s turn to roll over, “Because Jacquelinedoesn’t know Summer. I can’t even conceive how that would work!”

Applejack tapped her head to Twilight saying, “I’m with her on this one Twi.”

Rarity continued to explain, “Pinkie, on the other hoof, is Rainbow’s only real social link to reach Summer.” Twilight’s eyes widened slightly, understanding Rarity’s point. “Second,” she continued, “while I’m sure Pinkie and Summer are good friends, Pinkie has a certain…ehhh, exuberance to her, which can be just endearing, but if experienced in high…doses…” trailing off, smiling sheepishly to the pony of subject.

Pinkie just glared back at Rarity and said, “You just remember that next time you’re not invited to a party.”

Rarity almost felt like her plan was about to fall apart, leading her to ask, “But you’re still on board with the plan?”

Pinkie’s mood switched back to her cheery self in and instant as she answered, “Actually I’m on board a train with all my friends, but okey-dokey-lokey!” Rarity sighed in relief.

Twilight conceded to the first part of Rarity’s logic, but with the latter cut off by her hesitation, she still saw problems.

Applejack cut in before Rarity could continue, almost assuming the end of a plan without a place for her, “What about me? Don’t I get a slice of the pie in this here scheme of yours?” Rarity came back to herself, “Quite the contrary, Applejack,” her face lighting up, “you’re actually getting two slices in this here scheme of mine!” This would have been a time for head scratching in confusion, but huddled up with her friends, Applejack could only utter, “Say what now?”

Closing her eyes, Rarity smiled and nodded, and after sounding out a confirming hum, she explained, “You will be playing two roles. Twilight is right. Summer Breeze might have already arrived, thereby rendering Twilight’s part fruitless.”

Twilight was impressed by this, seeing Rarity actually did think this part through. Rarity continued, “That is where you will scour through the Gala, both in the ballroom and the botanical gardens. If you see her, remembering her colors,” then switched to a whisper, “like you, but different,” resuming then to normal volume, “you will go and alert Rainbow, Pinkie, and again myself.”

Applejack tilted her head, still puzzled, “…and this second slice you mentioned?”

Rarity nodded, commending Applejack’s focus, “Later after Pinkie introduces Rainbow to Summer, you will watch, and whenever the time seems right to you, lasso her in!”

Applejack, understanding Rarity’s meaning, smiled, and said, “I think I follow you Rare. You want me to be the one to hogtie our little piggy before things get out of hoof.”

Rarity nodded and winked at her in confirmation, hoping hogtie was just as metaphorical as referring to Pinkie the piggy. She then offered the result of Applejack’s part, “Thereby isolating Summer with Rainbow.” Twilight was dropping her jaw at all this, just astounded by Rarity’s stroke of brilliance!

Rainbow Dash, like Twilight, was very impressed by Rarity’s elaborate arrangement so far, but where was she in this? Aching to know, she asked,

“But where are me and Pinkie?” Rarity, unbothered by being pressed to go on, did just that saying,

“You and Pinkie will be waiting in the botanical gardens, of course.” Something then occurred to Fluttershy. She raised her concerns softly,

“Oh, but Rarity, what if Summer’s already in the gardens. I mean, she does seem to like flowers, um, I just thought…” trailing off, turning her head to hide behind her mane. She had clearly been recalling Rainbow’s first witness of Summer Breeze, smelling flowers out in front of her new home in Ponyville. Twilight was actually excited to see what Rarity had to say. As it turned out, Rarity had, as she explained,

“That is why Pinkie should keep an eye out for her as well, ready to bring our two lovebirds together,” then Rarity looked up admiring the romantic situation she was forging. “By the way, Fluttershy, if Twilight does greet Summer and you tell Pinkie, Rainbow, and I, be sure to find Applejack next, and tell her the search has been called off, and to be ready.”

Everypony leaned in, sensing a conclusion to Rarity’s well-structured system. Rarity then, to her friends’ anticipation, thus concluded, “If she hasn’t yet arrived, Summer must go through Twilight. If she’s already at the Gala, Applejack will spot her either in the ballroom or the gardens, checking both constantly. If Summer is already in the botanical gardens, Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash will simply meet her there. In checking both the gardens and ballroom, bearing in mind how one cannot get to the gardens without first passing through the ballroom, Applejack should then have enough time to reel in Pinkie if she and Rainbow are seen with Summer. And just like that, we have our two sweets together.” Rarity fell silent, glancing around the group, suggesting her plan had come to an end.

Everypony was just speechless, as they wondered just how Rarity could have possibly come up with this foal-proof system. It had seemed that she had planned everything down to the last detail, leaving no stone unturned, except maybe one, and it haunted Rainbow Dash. She broke the silence finally and asked,

“But wait, all this time you’ve talked about getting me and Summer in the same place, alone. What happens next?” Rarity leaned her head on Rainbow and answered softly,

“Just be yourself love,” then kissed Rainbow’s cheek.

“Hey!” Dash exclaimed, as all her friends laughed at her reaction. The laughter had caused the huddle circle to break and everypony was back on all hooves.

Finally getting over her laughs, Twilight said, “Wow Rarity, just wow! I don’t know what to say except…You’re a genius!”

Rarity had always been quite the romantic, that much Twilight knew, but how she could hatch up such a scheme, in who knows what short a time, she simply could not fathom it.

It seemed everypony had her role to play, yet it seemed there was something missing again. Applejack was the one to catch it, asking, “There’s just one thing I don’t see here. What about you Rarity? Don’t you have a part in on all this?”

Pinkie Pie answered for Rarity in her giddy manner, “Of course not! We each have a slice of the whole pie! You see the pie is divided in six equal slices, and you who had two!” then she gasped in horror, “But if you had two, that means Rarity doesn’t get to have pie, because you took her slice. AJ, how could you!!!” Pinkie looked like she was about to cry, as her lips wobbled, until Rarity cleared her throat.

“If you recall AJ, I told both you and Fluttershy to tell me of Summer’s arrival or immediate presence. My role will be simply to monitor the whole situation. Keeping everypony in check,” closing with a smile.

Applejack stared at her a moment, blinked, and said, “You’re fixing to flirt with that Tux fellow, ain’t you?”

Rarity blushed, “Tux…fellow?”

“Snazzy Tux!” Applejack clarified, “Brother of Fancy Pants! Runner of that high quality tailor biz in Canterlot you’ve been gabbering on about for months! That Tux fellow?” giving Rarity a judgmentally raised eyebrow.

The rest looked turned to Rarity, pondering themselves on what her aims and motives really were for this night. She looked around nervously, even laughing nervously, and tried to hide her blush.

“Well, speaking of biz-ness,” attempting to bring back Twilight’s question at the beginning of the ride, “I have been meaning to…discuss business! Yes,” working through her nervous laughs, “I’ve been thinking of making…certain sales arrangements between the Tux-Galore and Canterlot Carousel.”

Even Rainbow felt unconvinced, and Rarity knew it. Almost feeling herself beginning to sweat, sweat in her dress, Rarity breathed deeply, and donned an expression that promised reprioritization. “But no matter what happens tonight, my top priority will be Rainbow Dash and Summer Breeze,” Rarity avowed, sealing with a look of commitment. The five stared at Rarity with a look that screamed Lame, but given Rarity’s affirmation at the time, Twilight said,

“Well the rest of her plan sounds foal proof.” To that, the four others shrugged, feeling satisfied enough with Rarity, despite their suspicions. A knock came to the car door again, opening to allow Trusty to reenter.

After bowing slightly to the Princess Twilight, he said, “I’ve come to inform you all, and Princess, that we’ve just arrived to Canterlot and will be leaving shortly. This is your destination, right?” He saw how Twilight Sparkle, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy had cornered Rarity, but didn’t worry himself over it. They all turned to him with looks of surprise, safe Twilight who had expected this of the new system.

“Really?” Applejack asked, “I didn’t even feel the train stop.”

“Lightspeed,” Twilight whispered to Applejack with a grin, making the subtle reminder to the railway advancements over which she was most fond. With the distraction in place, Rarity walked slowly to the middle of the car calling out,

“Fabulous! Most appreciated Monsieur, we’ll be coming off soon!” Twilight looked at the attendant bow to make his departure, and then after he closed the door, she mused to herself on giving this Trusty Hooves a knighthood if everything worked out for Rainbow. The thought was interrupted by Rarity calling out, “Yoo-hoo,” gathering her friends to the center of the car.

She needed to say one last thing before they got off and needed to hear them all re-establish their bonds as she said, “Remember now, whatever happens tonight, we are all going to be good friends, and do everything in our power to make this Rainbow’s Crush’s Best Night Ever!”

They all hummed and nodded in pledge with a look of resolve. Rarity giggled highly to this and declared,

“Come on girls! Tonight, let’s make a lady woo!” and as she was raising her hoof, without missing a beat, she and rest were joined in a clap as all let out, “Woo!” Then something odd happened, as the group found their joined hooves in the being motioned up and down, hearing the same repetitive “woo” coming from Pinkie. They looked at her curiously, as she went on with eyes shut, saying slowly “woo…” again and again… and again, motioning the groups clap up and down and up and down. Pinkie was gone in her own world, leading her friends to glare annoyed at the blissfully unaware pony. Seeing no end to the cycle Pinkie was clearly trapped in, they lowered their hooves, and proceed to exit the train.

Pinkie Pie, however, just kept at it a couple more times with eyes shut, making the up and down motion with her raised hoof, and repeated the sound of “woo” slowly again, and again, and again. She opened her eyes after ten seconds, bringing an end to her strange trance, finding herself alone, but her smile was unbroken. After blinking once, she proceeded to follow her friends in her springy bounces, with her smile never failing.

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.

Chapter Six - Attitude

Chapter Six – Attitude

It was a little after four when the six mares had stepped off the train. They then proceeded through the busy streets of Canterlot. Everypony not invited to the Grand Galloping Gala was seen getting ready for their own parties to celebrate the founding of the capital city of Equestria. Naturally there were more police officers out and Royal Pegasi guards searching the skies both over and around Canterlot. Such was the norm, seeing how days as popular as this could spawn the potential to disrupt the everyday order of public life, as well as mark an opportune time of invasion by foreign enemies. Thanks to such provisions, Canterlot was as peaceful and lively as ever, if not more so on this landmark occasion.

As the six were walking together down Auroran Lane, nopony really spoke much, but merely admired each other’s company and the atmosphere of the grand city. After giving the group, Rarity herself included, a chance to appreciate the moment, she spoke.

“Now girls, we each know our parts tonight. Once each of our tasks is completed, we can do whatever we’d like to enjoy the Gala. But does anypony here have any questions I ought to address?”

Twilight was quick to raise one factor of concern, “One thing I wonder Rarity. What do you think she’ll be wearing tonight? I mean, I could make out the colors of her coat, mane, and tail, unless she’s wearing so much that her body’s obscured.”

Rarity looked down and hummed as she thought about it a moment. It seemed at last there was something she had not considered. She didn’t look troubled, but did seem to appreciate the challenge of the thought.

Then Rarity said, “Well let’s see…” then pulled out her color reference chart to examine, “given her general colors, she’d probably be going out in something dark.” She continued scanning the possible options, “hmm, if it were me or anypony of similar taste advising, Summer could be dressed in teal dark cyan, smalt as well as cerulean dark blue…even Klein blue would suit her nicely.” Rarity then turned her head and asked, “Pinkie, you must have seen her at the last Gala, so what was she wearing then?”

Pinkie needed only a second to remember, “Well it was her first Gala, so she wore a black dress, but even though she had a good time that night, she did tell me she thought the dress was mistake, so she’d probably be trying something else this year.”

That was of little help, Rarity thought. She had her best guess, but whether Summer shared the same sense of fashion as Rarity remained questionable. She shuddered a moment at the thought of Summer in black. Applejack had been listening in on this as well, seeing how she too was expected to identify her.

Alas, she was lost on the color terminologies again, as was Twilight, so she asked, “um, Rare? Mind explaining with that chart again?”

Rarity sighed in mild frustration, regretting how she’s practically one of the few ponies in the group so studious in colors, shades, and hues. She brought the chart towards Twilight and Applejack to help them differentiate and recognize the four colors Rarity had set her mind on. Fluttershy had remained naturally in her own bubble, only looking on towards the rest of her friends. Among her friends, however, she saw Rainbow seeming withdrawn again. It was the same as what Fluttershy observed back in Ponyville, before Dash came out to her friends. Rainbow had definitely taken refuge in her deep thoughts once again and this worried her. Fluttershy pranced over beside Rainbow. She looked worried, causing her a lot of concern. Finally, she asked, “How are you doing Rainbow?” A single, but somehow still lengthy second passed.

To Fluttershy’s relief, Rainbow inhaled and exhaled deeply, then answered, “I’m fine. Just on my way to the Grand Galloping Gala to…” she paused to swallow hard, “…meet probably the…” but trailed off, embarrassed to complete the statement. Fluttershy kept quiet, feeling Rainbow wanted her to help move away from what she was about to say, but passively refused. The silence between them had become too vacuous for Rainbow to let live on, thus yielding the final words, “…the most beautiful mare I’ve ever seen.” There was no blushing, no bashful smile, but only a frown on Rainbow’s face that seemed to lament over unattainable desires.

“Oh Rainbow,” Fluttershy said, shaking her head in disapproval, “you won’t get to be with her with that attitude.” Rainbow looked over to Fluttershy critically, as though to say she wasn’t one to talk; nevertheless, Fluttershy continued, “You’ve seen me with a manticore, Cerberus, even the orthros.” Rainbow was hardly seeing the parallel being made, but the curiosity drove her focus as Fluttershy explained, hoping not to lose her, “Most ponies would be terrified by such creatures and either approach them incorrectly or just run.”

Rainbow was starting to pick up on what Fluttershy was talking about, and listened on as Fluttershy said, “I, on the other hoof, try very hard to keep a positive attitude, which allows me to work with all sorts of creatures,” providing a hesitant clarification, “um, except dragons and timberwolves!” giggling to herself, winning a small smile from Rainbow. “Even Discord,” Fluttershy brought out her last case, “reformed for good because I simply tried to be his friend.”

Rainbow gave a rather long nod to that point. Fluttershy indeed had stayed positive against the opposition of her friends during Discord’s reformation. Only until he had been quite taken to her, but remained his overly mischievous self, did Fluttershy call off their friendship, making him realize just how important friendship was to him.

Fluttershy gave Rainbow a moment to take in the thoughts just served to her. She then tied it all together for Rainbow in a more relevant application.

“Well, what I’m trying to say Rainbow, is that…” she paused a second to make sure it made sense to her as well, “it’s all about attitude. Just start small and be her friend. I’m sure she’d be willing to dance with you on that level.”

A stroke of disappointment hit Rainbow at the thought of mere friendship, causing her to ask, “But you know I want more than that.” Fluttershy, understanding how Rainbow misinterpreted her, went on.

“Just ask her out after the dance! That’s what Jeff did with me.” Shock overtook Rainbow for a brief moment, only to remember that the subject of Fluttershy’s month old relationship had been brought up before on the train, but Jeff?

Then it hit her, “Wait! You mean you and Jeff Letrotski?”

Fluttershy nodded with no hint of a blush and said, “He can be a real gentlecolt you know?”

This hadn’t disrupted any sense of logic in Rainbow at all, so she merely let out a small, “huh,” as the two stayed kept behind their other friends.

“But you went out only a month?” Rainbow asked, somewhat suspicious of Fluttershy’s helpful words.

Fluttershy giggled and said, “We both decided we wanted to be friends instead and we still are too. I go bowling with his friends almost every Wednesday!” then honed in on Rainbow’s concern, “but just because me and Jeff didn’t work, it doesn’t mean it can’t with you and Summer.”

Rainbow almost missed that last point Fluttershy said as she asked, “Wait a minute? You bowl?” Fluttershy said nothing, but only smiled and winked. Rainbow puzzled over all this, wondering just how much more there was to Fluttershy’s life away from her main circle of friends. Her mind was at last cleared of the discouraging gloom filling her mind, replaced by confusion, which after shrugging off, only left her to buy more into her friend’s counsel.

She finally giggled and said, “You’re right, I’ve got nothing to worry about. I’m just going over as a friend, ask for a dance, and then ask her out!”

Fluttershy then exclaimed softly, “That’s the spirit!” With the betterment of Rainbow’s attitude established, the two raced forward to catch up with the others.

Twilight and Applejack had absorbed Rarity’s long, drawn out explanation on the different color schemes they wanted to look out for that night.

When Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash caught up with the others, Twilight said, “There you two are! What took you both?”

Rainbow was the one to answer, “We were just talking about tonight and…Oh! Did anypony know that Fluttershy bowls?”

Pinkie Pie blew a raspberry through her lips and said, “Like yeah! I join her sometimes with that Jeff fellow,” then came close to Rainbow to whisper in her ear, “If you ask me, I think he and Fluttershy are dating.”

Rainbow managed to contain herself, letting out no more than a smile, and a light shake of her head. As the six carried on through Canterlot by hoof, Rarity had wanted to make an important addition to her well thought out system of getting Rainbow Dash and Summer Breeze together.

After calling out, “Girls,” getting her friends attention, “before I felt it needn’t been said, but just as a precaution: I want to make it clear that we each keep away from each other tonight.” The rest were silent, indicating their confusion. “It will help to keep Summer from getting suspicious,” Rarity explained. Most of her friends each offered their own variation of agreement, but Pinkie was perplexed. She then asked,

“But if we’re all supposed to keep away, how will I introduce Rainbow and Summer? And how will Fluttershy tell Rainbow and I if Summer is here or Applejack tell anypony she’s seen her?”

Rarity sighed in frustration and said, “We’re still doing all of that dear, but beyond that we must not be seen together.”

“Oh!” Pinkie said, understanding quickly, “‘must not be seen together’,” she copied Rarity, “Gotcha!”

After about fifteen minutes of walking had finally led the six to a spherical carriage with two royal guards watching over it. It had not only been made of gold, but was also encrusted with many sorts of gems ranging from Amethyst to Charoite, Rhodolite Garnet to Spinel, all of which matched Twilight Sparkle’s natural colors. The rear side of the carriage also had something special for all to see: Diamonds mosaicked to form five six-pointed stars, which surrounded a greater six-pointed star likewise formed by numerous gems, pink tourmaline to be specific, as more dazzling white diamonds formed pointed shortly from the inner corners of the greater star. Twilight’s friends looked in awe at this new vehicle.

Rarity then exclaimed at a high pitch, “Ooh! When did this happen?!” giggling at the sheer beauty of the carriage.

Twilight walked ahead and looked back saying, “It’s the first you’ve all seen this, huh? You like it? Celestia gave me this on the third anniversary of my coronation!”

Applejack was the next to speak, “Golly Princess,” almost forgetting she was talking to Twilight her friend, “Princess Celestia’s got to be a might proud of you to get you this here!” Twilight attempted to be humble in response, “Oh I’m sure it’s just a formality. You see, every princess gets her own carriage eventually. You should see Cadence’s!”

Her friends rolled their eyes in amusement, ignoring that one hint of pride in their regal friend.

As the group reached the carriage, the two royal guards were still, but their special training had made them quite aware of Princess Twilight Sparkle’s approach at least half of a mile away. Five of the six mares stopped about a yard away from the carriage as Twilight went ahead, supposing to one another how she must address the guards before drawing nearer.

As soon as Twilight faced the guards and bowed her head, one had felt permission to speak, “Princess,” taking a bow himself, “we were concerned for you.”

Apparently Twilight and her friends at been a tad late for their scheduled arrival. She then felt obligated to explain, “Thank you good sir. The city can be quite busy this time of year, but that’s what makes the walk here special for me and my friends. You understand, don’t you?” This stunned both of the guards, which showed despite their efforts. Why would a Princess be trying to find an excuse for being late? If anything they should have been looking for her the first minute she didn’t show up. On the other hoof they were given strict orders not to leave their post until Princess Twilight had arrived. Knowing not what way to take this for certain, the guards smiled and lowered their heads to Twilight.

With that out of the way, Twilight politely bid the guards to aside, opening the side door herself with her magic aura, and called out, “Come on girls, you’ve got to see what the inside is like!” Upon Twilight’s call, her friends rushed over in excitement as they all climbed into the gem coated vehicle.

Rarity was the last to step in, rather hesitantly, as she asked Twilight before making the full leap in, “Darling, are you sure? All of us before you?”

Twilight nodded in solemn contentment, after which Rarity hopped right in very giddily. After her friends were all inside, Twilight proceeded herself to enter, leaving the guards utterly bewildered. It was sure nice holding the door open for her friends, being the last to go in, BUT THIS IS THE PRINCESS! So what? Can a Princess not be well mannered? They both dared to peek from behind the open door, finding Twilight waiting for them to shoot a raised eyebrow, and they knew not whether to leave or stay.

Going on a whim, they chose to stay, as Twilight said, “Just this once do I want guests entering my carriage with all this,” pausing to quickly cross her wings in front of her face, and then tried to mimic their voices, “‘Halt! Who goes there?’ nonsense, alright?” retracting her wings before those final two word. She then climbed into the carriage and before either of the guards had a chance, Twilight used her magic to close the door herself. A cold sense of guilt filled the guards as they went straight to the front. They placed the reigns on their backs and went on to bring the Princess and her companions to the Grand Galloping Gala.

Inside, Twilight leaned back with a relaxed sigh, noticing Applejack’s voice, “Gosh Twilight, what was that all about?”

Twilight opened her eyes, forced a chuckle, and answered, “Oh! Do I have stories to tell you!”

Rarity interrupted, “Before you go and rant dear, let me just stay, I love it in here!” admiring the interior of Twilight’s personal carriage. [Talk about it more] It had plush seats, soft pillows, inside walls painted with patterns of Twilight’s cutie mark, and even a miniature candle-lit chandelier, which was at perfect balance by Twilight’s favorite device: The Magically Propelled Gyroscope. It was that last item hanging above which completely took Rainbow Dash’s attention, as it spun so freely in the center of the clear crystal chandelier.

Twilight couldn’t help but notice Rainbow’s fascination, leading her to ask, “You like it Rainbow? Up there is the gyroscope I was getting so hyped up about earlier.”

Rainbow couldn’t take her eyes off the device as she said, “It’s like dancing.”

Twilight drew back and thought about what she just uttered, looking back up at the spinning gadget, “uh, I guess I can see what you mean,” trying her best to draw whatever parallels she could between that gyroscope and the dance back on the train. Surely Twilight wasn’t seeing what Rainbow Dash saw, who was seemingly mesmerized.

With Rainbow lost, Twilight moved on back to Applejack, recounting all her negative experiences with royal guards, and other the stresses that came with her new position. It was almost five O’clock in the evening, as a long conversation in the carriage was drawing to a close.

Rarity was telling Twilight, “Look, all I’m saying dear is that if your protection lowers for but one moment, enemies to the royal name will take such opportunity to snatch you up, or if not snatch you up, will go incognito, and invade even the palace.” Twilight looked down in surrender to Rarity’s logic, which ended with the point, “You, Princess Twilight Sparkle, are property of the State, and it will put all heart and effort in protecting you, Princesses Cadence and Luna, even Princess Celestia herself.”

The very notion of Princess Celestia requiring protection, though being as powerful as she was, made Twilight finally yield, “Maybe you’re right Rarity.”

Fluttershy smiled at Twilight’s understanding, while Pinkie Pie said, “Yeah Twi, and you really need to loosen up a little too. I think this princess gig is really driving you more coco-loco than usual lately.”

Twilight happily agreed saying, “You’ve got that right Pinkie! I’ll just hit the spa as soon as this holiday week is over and done with.”

She felt a certain sense of calm now, looking over to Rainbow Dash who still was transfixed on the gyroscope. She thought about how her attitude on life was changing, having talked to her friends about the recent stresses of her life. It then occurred to Twilight how dramatically Rainbow’s state of mind must have morphed after her experience on the train.

Rainbow Dash had really been absorbed into a Zen-like state as she observed the spinning device above in the carriage. It was almost as though she was in deep meditation, examining the rings, disk, and axis. Rarity saw the state Rainbow was in, so she clapped her hooves lightly to get her attention, having finished working with Twilight.

“Huh?” Rainbow Dash uttered, almost in shock from the break in her contemplations. Rarity smiled and said,

“Just a few more things before details before we arrive love,” as her bluish gray aura glowed around her purse, pulling out a few particular items. A small spray bottle levitated to Rainbow, applying a clear mist onto her left shoulder. A cloth glowing with the same aura was then rubbing something out her suit. Probably Fluttershy’s tears of joy from earlier. A brush then hovered over her head, roughly grooming her mane to the neater style she had prior at the station. After the items were drawn back into Rarity’s purse, Rainbow felt her umber suit, particularly her purple bowtie, being tugged, adjusted, and tightened. This cosmetic treatment Rarity was employing lasted a few minutes until the magic seemed to stop. Finally, Rarity said, “There! Now you are simply handsome!”

“‘Handsome’?” Rainbow asked, noticing Rarity’s choice word. That was a word used more to describe stallions, so what was she getting at using the word handsome?

Rarity rolled her eyes and said, “It’s is a perfectly applicable word for both colt and mare, darling,” then looked up in consideration before continuing, “albeit it’s a bit outdated for describing ladies,” resuming her sights on Rainbow smiling, “but I still maintain that the usage is valid.”

Rainbow rolled her eyes in turn, but more in amusement at Rarity’s personal lingo, taking appreciation for both the service and the compliment that followed.

“Thanks Rare,” she said, “I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

She had scarce ever required or ever wanted Rarity’s help in matters of fashion and appearance, but only now did she truly have the chance to appreciate Rarity’s generous nature this much.

Applejack then lent her thoughts saying, “Rarity’s sure fixed you up nice there RD, you’ll get Summer for sure looking like that.”

“You really think so AJ?” Rainbow asked.

Applejack rejected the question in a smile saying, “Now don’t you be second guessing yourself partner. Whatever happens tonight, we’ve all got your back. Ain’t that right everypony?” The rest all concurred with humming. The carriage finally came to a halt, everypony sensed, causing Rainbow to take in a deep breath, readying herself for what lay ahead that night.

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.

Chapter Eight – Rainbow Dash’s Best Night Ever (Part II)

Pinkie Pie was getting impatient, as her stopwatch chimed yet another minute.

Rainbow Dash was about to turn back to the fountain when Pinkie moaned, “Come on Dashie! Summer’s in there waiting!!!”

“Waiting for what?” was on Rainbow’s mind.

She knew Summer Breeze was just inside enjoying the Grand Galloping Gala. Summer hadn’t been expecting anypony, Rainbow least of all. Then a thought occurred to her. Her secret special somepony is inside, alone, nopony to keep her company. The thought was a bit farfetched, but what if Summer is picked up by another. Pinkie had already avowed that Rainbow was Summer’s type, so she had that going for her. What if, though, there was a pony just as awesome as her? She doubted the thought, yet at the same time, she couldn’t help but think less of herself. Rainbow shook her head furiously, casting out the multitude of ideas spinning around in her mind like a tempest. After reflecting on Fluttershy’s discourse on attitude, she stomped the ground hard, and let out a snort to vent out her fears.

Pinkie watched Rainbow turning back to her, as she said, “Okay, let’s do this.” After letting out a celebratory “Woo!” Pinkie followed her anxious friend back inside.

Back in the ballroom, Summer Breeze had been moving further from Applejack’s sight. Had it not been for her styled mane, she might have disappeared entirely into the crowds ahead. Somehow it shined brightly, however, perhaps by artificial means. Summer must have seen Aloe and Lotus Blossom prior heading on up to the Gala. Applejack tried as hard as she could not to lose sight of her. It was particularly difficult to do whilst trying to not look like she was looking!

She was startled then by the high-pitched call coming up from behind her, “Hey Applejack!”

It was just Pinkamena, she thought, attempting not to lose her concentration. After finding Pinkie and Rainbow at each of her sides, Applejack let out a frustrated rant.

“There you two are! What took y’all? I was just about to move from this here spot. I can scarce see Summer!”

Rainbow said nothing, but only blushed and looked away, not that Applejack’s eyes were free to look back.

Pinkie laughed and snorted in response, saying, “Sorry…but Dashie’s getting all super-duper nervous, so much so that her mouth went like super dry once, twice, thrice…had to drink from the fountain several times until I was like ‘Come on Dashie!’”

Applejack’s mildly sour temper sweetened, she rolled her eyes, and smiled. In a whisper, then, she said,

“Well,” urging Pinkie and Rainbow to lean in closer, “She’s all the way over yonder,” pointing a hoof over in the side of the ballroom opposite of the great alicorn statue.

Rainbow looked in the direction Applejack was pointing, immediately recognizing that yellow mane. Though far and obscured by crowds in between, her pegasus eyes made out most clearly that vibrant, almost golden hair. Even without squinting, she knew those sky-blue eyes, or eye rather, from her point of view.

Meanwhile, unicorn servants approached the Princesses, pushing carts carrying desserts that made Twilight’s mouth water. She remembered them well from the last Grand Galloping Gala. She saw Gustave le Grand's Exquisite Éclairs, Donut Joe's Donutopia, and what seemed to be a scaled down version of Mulia Mild's chocolate mousse moose. If that weren’t terrible enough, she thought to herself, there it was. The Cakes’ Marzipan Mascarpone Meringue Madness. All were ordered by Princesses Celestia and Luna ahead of time before the Gala.

Princess Luna’s first choice were two éclairs and three donuts. Princess Celestia, naturally, started on a slice from that Marzipan Mascarpone Meringue Madness! Twilight, however, received the dish of her predetermination, which the servants could not help but express a little just how sad they felt her selection was. As plates were levitated and set before the three, Princess Celestia glared critically at Twilight’s dish. It was a salad, but not just any salad. It was a very meager dish, seeming to be compiled of celery shreds, a few slices of radish, and chunks of carrot clearly there for nothing more than to provide a satisfying crunch. There wasn’t even a crouton, cheese, or dressing! Well there was dressing, albeit a light drizzle of olive oil, and perhaps even a scarce amount of black pepper.

Princess Celestia certainly did not envy Twilight at the slightest, but rather almost mourned over her. She looked over to her sister, Princess Luna, who returned a look as though to verify her shared opinion. Understanding this, Princess Celestia turned back to Twilight. She was smiling and ready to chow down on that poor excuse for a salad.

Before Princess Celestia could say anything, her sister addressed to Twilight, “I sense your friend, Rarity, has much to do with this.” Twilight’s magic lost grip of the fork upon hearing that. She turned to the two sisters with what seemed to be confusion.

Princess Celestia gave Twilight a rather disappointed expression, clarifying her sister’s statement in the form of a question, “A salad?”

The reality of it then hit Twilight, as she looked back on her dish, forcing back her disappointment.

Her resistance was building up, however, as she attempted to sound enthused saying, “Well…it’s really good, believe it or not. Refreshing even! You should really…AHHH!”

Twilight’s speech was cut off by her own shriek as a bolt of lightning disintegrated her, um…salad.

Naught but a thin layer of ash remained on Twilight’s place. She looked up towards the sisters as her heart raced, seeing on their faces looks of immense disapproval.

Princess Celestia’s face softened to a smile as she said, “It’s a party, my young friend. You mustn’t be so hard on yourself tonight.”

“Indeed,” Princess Luna concurred with a neutral expression, “feast this night to your heart’s content.”

Twilight’s face went from shock to hesitant, almost trembling at the peer pressure she was experiencing. The sisters both raised an eyebrow at her, awaiting her response.

She lowered her face with her eyes fixed on Princesses Celestia and Luna saying, “I really don’t know if AY…!” She wasn’t even able to complete the pronoun I as she felt something rushed in her mouth. Her eyes opened wide and her mouth clamped shut, looking down her face to see emerging a fork wrapped in a light golden aura, the same as…NO! She looked back up to a smugly smiling Princess Celestia, whose horn glowed the same color, as she whispered, “Gotcha!” as her sister snickered behind her.

Twilight began to breathe heavily, hardly able to believe what just happened. Her close mentor and friend had just broken her fast and put cake in her mouth. THERE WAS CAKE IN HER MOUTH!!! She found herself petrified at this, unable to move, feeling the fork slowly sliding out from between her lips, leaving the delicious MMMM placed on her tongue.

“Now she’s just being cocky!” she thought to herself. The rich, creamy goodness of the marzipan slowly began to melt in Twilight’s mouth. She salivated at the tart and tanginess of the mascarpone. Then, at the smooth silky sweetness of the meringue, her jaw began to slowly and involuntarily move to chew. Twilight looked back up to Princesses Celestia and Luna, who grinned and slowly nodded most encouragingly. She took about fifteen seconds to chew, savoring each burst of flavor on her tongue, before ruefully swallowing the forkful of the MMMM.

Princess Celestia smiled warmly to Twilight saying, “I can tell Rarity has worked hard on you Twilight, yourself as well, and I can see you have reached your goal.”

Princess Luna leaned out behind to add, “Is it not time to reward yourself tonight Princess?” as her horn glowed a wistful gray-blue aura.

Twilight’s face, once cold, now warm, turned towards a new slice of cake being brought to her by the same aura as glowed around Princess Luna’s horn. She looked back and forth between the regal sisters and the decadent cake, struggling between that peer pressure and her sense of disgust towards eating cake after seven months of abstaining, to Pinkie Pie’s displeasure.

Her gaze finally fixated to the MMMM, saying with giddy sarcasm, “If you say so!” and she finally began to enjoy cake for the first time in a long while. The sisters looked at each other and shared a hoof clap, victoriously thrusting the same hooves upward in make believe fireworks.

Applejack had been following a safe distance from Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie, as they drew closer and closer to Summer Breeze. The mare didn’t seem to be in the middle of much of anything in particular. It seemed Summer simply enjoyed being at the Gala, but at the same time, she did seem to possibly give off a hint of lonesomeness.

Being only a few yards away then, Pinkie finally exclaimed, “Summer!” drawing the attention of the same.

She smiled excitingly and returned the greeting, “Pinkie Pie, so good to see you!” The two shared a quick hug, which did bother Rainbow a bit. Just a bit.

“Wow!” Pinkie exclaimed again, “Look at you. I love the new dress!” Summer looked back at her dress and said,

“Thanks! Sure better than last year, huh?” Rainbow smiled, admiring more how Summer dressed and had her mane.

Pinkie Pie nodded in return and answered, “Yeparuni! Where’d you get it?”

Summer’s eyes brightened as she said, “Believe it or not, I got this at Carousel Boutique!”

Rainbow was surprised by this, as was Pinkie as she gasped and said, “Oh my gosh! That means you met my friend, Rarity!”

This caused Summer to look away, seeming embarrassed as she corrected, “Well I actually didn’t get to meet her, per se. It was the big sale day, you see, and ponies came in by the hundreds!”

Pinkie and Rainbow listened on with interest as Summer continued, “I did see her, but she was so busy. I wouldn’t blame her if she didn’t remember me.”

That statement almost made Pinkie feel sad, but the way Summer smiled expressed her understanding Rarity’s hectic situation that day had brought some relief. Oh, how that smile brought a grin to Rainbow’s face!

Rainbow Dash was beginning to have a little more faith in Pinkie Pie than she already had. Pinkie probably didn’t even plan it out, but the topic of Summer Breeze’s dress shifting to Rarity seemed like just the icebreaker she needed.

Pinkie realized this as well and took the opportunity saying, “Well since you didn’t get to meet Rarity, I’d like you to meet one of my more awesome friends!”

Rainbow’s heart stood still a moment as she felt Pinkie pulling her close saying, “Summer, this is Rainbow Dash!” then after releasing her, she addressed, “Dashie, this is Summer Breeze!”

The one second of silence seemed to drag on a whole minute from Rainbow’s perspective as she thought, “Just another pony, just another pony, just another pony!”

When the second passed, she raised a forehoof shyly saying, “Nice to meet you Summer.”

She regretted instantly offering the hoof shake, for some reason.

Rainbow changed her mind just as quickly, however, as Summer took her hoof into her own, and shook saying, “It’s good to meet you too! Pinkie has mentioned you a couple times.”

Rainbow smiled warmly as she felt Summer’s hoof and the tough, compact muscles within. It was certainly a special moment for her: The first physical contact Rainbow ever made with Summer.

She couldn’t stop there, she thought, so she utilized her first touch of that mare, and said, “Gee, strong hoof there,” failing then to be bashful.

Summer withdrew her forehoof with an appreciative smile saying, “Thanks, I like to keep myself active.”

Rainbow pretended to beam in surprise, but she knew perfectly well her athleticism. Pinkie broke in, resuming her role, exclaiming, “What a coinkydink! Rainbow likes to keep herself active too!”

Summer glanced at Rainbow’s wings and then, with half-lidded eyes and a smile, said, “I imagine so,” as Rainbow gave an almost smug smile.

She could have sworn Summer’s eyes were flirtatious. That thought faded after she heard, “being a pegasus.” She had meant no offense by that, as pegasi were indeed highly active, if not most active, among equinity; however, despite Rainbow’s outward smile, she frowned on the inside, being compared to other pegasi like that.

Pinkie Pie recognized another golden opportunity to work in Rainbow Dash’s favor. In response then to Summer’s latter statement, she challenged, “Well Dashie’s not like most pegasuseses,” bobbing then her eyebrows a couple times.

“Oh?” Summer asked, eye’s widening as they moved from Pinkie to Rainbow, suggesting the latter had suddenly become more interesting.

“Oh yeah,” Pinkie affirmed, “just wait until you hear how she won first prize in the Best Young Flyer Competition!”

Applejack heard that, hiding a distance behind Summer Breeze, sensing Rainbow was in trouble. She couldn’t just jump in, however, right as Pinkie was beginning. She stood her ground, biding her time. Rainbow was getting nervous as Pinkie told that story, fearing the mention of her mistakes in the first two phases of her routine. To both Applejack and Rainbow’s surprise, however, Pinkie Pie was actually telling a rather thrilling version of that day. No crashing from one of the cloud pillars to the stadium wall, no mention of how Rainbow sent a cloud hurling towards Princess Celestia; Pinkie didn’t even make too big a fuss over Rarity and her gossamer and morning dew wings. It was probably Pinkie Pie’s nature to remember only the good parts of events and retell them in the most positive way from her own joyful perspective. Applejack was relieved by Pinkie’s version, more so because her own honest account would have been less flattering to Rainbow Dash.

Summer looked at Rainbow in amazement as Pinkie Pie told how Rainbow Dash saved both Rarity and three members of the Wonderbolts! She was definitely impressed by Pinkie’s memory of the competition, particularly by the so-called Sonic Rainboom.

“I actually heard about that!” Summer exclaimed towards Pinkie, thinking back a few years ago.

“A friend of mine from Cloudsdale told me all about it,” she continued, turning to Rainbow, “but he didn’t tell me it was you!”

Rainbow felt put off by that lack of credit saying, “Really?” Summer nodded and rolled her eyes saying,

“All he could seem to remember was ‘somepony numbered 15’,” shaking her head in amusement, “that Slash was never able to tell a full story.”

She shared a giggle with Pinkie, turning back to Rainbow saying, “You really are awesome like Pinkie said!”

Rainbow ducked slightly and said after a small chuckle, “I have my moments.” Applejack rolled her eyes as she listened in and heard those four words. She focused in on Rainbow, Pinkie, and Summer in particular. She not only listened, but also carefully analyzed their expressions. Pinkie had to wear out that mare’s ears eventually.

After feeling a satisfied with herself, Rarity had reentered Snazzy Tux’s circle, whom were happy to welcome back. She couldn’t help but explain what she had been up to during her absence. Snazzy himself took keen interest Rarity’s endeavors. It was after Rarity had finished laying out a brief synopsis of what happened that a thought occurred to him as he muttered to himself, “Rainbow? Rainbow Dash…?”

Rarity stared blankly at this curious observation until he looked out behind her a ways distance and said, “I do say: Is that not her over there?” Rarity rose her head at this and looked back to see Pinkie, Summer, and Rainbow in the midst of conversation.

“Why yes,” Rarity said, turning back to Snazzy with an inquisitive expression, “you…know her?”

He nodded back and said, “I believe she was in my shop not two months ago purchasing that very same suit.”

Rarity gawked and asked, “She was in the Tux Galore?”

Snazzy chuckled and answered, “Indeed she was. Not often do I receive a mare into my store buying for herself, but it happens.”

Rarity was astonished by this. Rainbow Dash had not only chosen a suit over the dress she made for her a while ago, but of all the places in Equestria, the suit Rainbow purchased came from Snazzy’s store.

Snazzy continued his recollection, “I chose the raw umber classic and fitted her myself.” Rarity grinned much at this and offered the compliment, “I must say then, you are one fine stallion of exquisite taste. My friend looks just so smashing in it!” as she looked back, smiling at her friend.

This striking coincidence she just discovered stood as a sign to her of how that night for Rainbow was just mean to be.

Pinkie Pie was on a roll talking up her friend Dashie, almost too well though. It was about five minutes in as Summer’s ears began to droop, as though Pinkie was on the verge of literally talking them off. Her smile never wavered, however, as the stories she heard about Rainbow Dash were in fact interesting. It was just the none stop stream of words that came pouring out of Pinkie Pie’s mouth with which Summer struggled to absorb. Rainbow likewise felt the cords tighten with every peal of her friend’s voice. Both Summer and Rainbow did share a look with one another for a moment to express how worn they both were of Pinkie.

Applejack felt the time was nigh when suddenly she heard the subject of pranks beginning. That was her cue and she had a thought out plan as well. Before she had imagined calling Pinkie for help at the dessert table, but that would have been a lie, she thought. She did, however, have one truthful excuse to pull Pinkie away, and now was the time to employ it. Rainbow was about to freak out when to her relief, she saw Applejack coming up from behind Summer.

“Pinkamena!” she called, drawing Pinkie’s attention, “I need your help finding Rarity…pronto!” giving her a wink away from Summer’s view.

Pinkie looked confused, seeming to forget the plan. It took only after a blink of her eyes to remember as she let out a single comprehensive sound, “Oh!” converting to the phrase, “-key-dokey-lokey…Let’s go!”

Applejack walked away as Pinkie bounced alongside her, leaving both Rainbow Dash and Summer Breeze alone at last.

Summer lowered her head and let out a sigh after Pinkie Pie’s departure.

Looking back then to Rainbow Dash who seemed concerned, she smiled bashfully, and said, “Sorry, Pinkie Pie is really sweet and all, but sometimes I think she can be a little…” She paused herself, afraid of sounding offensive.

Rainbow then felt like finishing what Summer was about to say, softly letting out, “…much.”

Summer blinked, smiled softly, and with the same low volume as Rainbow, said, “Yeah.” Rainbow held in a snicker and said, “That’s Pinkie for you!” They both giggled at their light poke at Pinkie a comfortably silent moment. Before the silence got too awkward, however, Rainbow offered a suggestion saying, “So you want to grab some punch?”

Summer smiled at the mention of the sweet drink and said, “Sure, let’s go.”

They walked off together, side by side, just like new friends, Rainbow thought very carefully. It was a small step, but if she played it cool enough, this might very well be the best night ever.

Back at the royal platform overlooking the ballroom, Twilight was on her third slice of the Marzipan Mascarpone Meringue Madness. She was most happy for herself, as were Princesses Celestia and Luna for her. She even looked and sounded jubilant as she regaled them with the ten months of frustrating weight loss Rarity had put her through. Neither of the sisters could tell if Twilight was simply taking humor in how ridiculous her year has been or if the cake simply put her in a sort of sugar/calorie high.

She confessed to them near the end saying, “…and that salad you zapped earlier was really more me than Rarity,” which took the sisters aback somewhat as Twilight continued, “She tried her best to get me to fit into that dress. Eventually though, I decided to amplified all of Rarity’s suggestions. I ate way less, tripled my exercised, and I even exhausted my magic, just to get thinner faster.”

Princesses Celestia and Luna glanced at each other with a hint of worry for Twilight, then back to their young friend who had taken yet another mouthful of the MMMM. Twilight thought as she chewed, reflecting back to her foalhood when `Tia forced her to go to the Canterlot Racetracks.

She swallowed and, feeling the gaze of the sisters on the side of her face, turned to Princess Celestia, and said, “You were right, I do need to get out more.”

Princess Luna nodded to this and said, “You might consider returning to Rarity’s guidance as well. I feel she’s developed a far better interest in your well being than you yourself.”

Twilight nodded in agreement, thinking how lucky she was to have a friend like Rarity. Twilight then began to wonder just how Rarity’s scheme was playing out.

Applejack chuckled after moving far enough from Rainbow and Summer, getting Pinkie to join in laughing as well.

She then said uninhibitedly, “Gosh Pinkie, I was plum worried at first, but you really did it!”

Pinkie smirked back and answered, “I sure did! Was there ever any doubt?”

Applejack stopped in her tracks, her thoughts as well, and answered back, “um, I kind of did just get through saying that Pinkie.”

Pinkie laughed, snorted, and said, “Oh yeah, you did!”

She laughed more as they went on looking for Rarity.

Applejack continued on saying, “I knew though you’d be just the one to talk her down to the bone. My, you nearly ran her ears away,” wincing as she said, “no offense cousin.”

Pinkie laughed more as she bounced saying, “Thanks! I try.”

Applejack stopped again, more confused than before, and asked, “Wait just a cotton-picking minute…you mean to say you did that on purpose?”

Pinkie stopped bouncing and stood in front of her with a smile, answering, “uh, Duh! That was the plan, wasn’t it? To overload Summer Breeze’s head with my constant talking so she’d be relieved when I go and like being around Dashie more?!”

She grinned widely at a speechless Applejack, who was rather surprised that Pinkie didn’t take personal offense to the concept.

She then answered hesitantly, “um, Sure it was. Come on now, Rarity’s got to be here somewhere.” They both carried on the search for Rarity.

Fluttershy was just sitting in near a few violinists with her eyes closed, relaxing to the background music they were bringing to the ballroom. She then felt somepony tapping her on the back, causing her to peep loudly, snapping her out of her tranquil state. She spun around fast and placed a hoof to her chest as though trying to keep her heart from racing away.

There in front of her stood the Wonderbolts led by Spitfire who said, “Sorry Fluttershy, didn’t mean to startle you.”

Fluttershy calmed at the sight of familiar, friendly faces and replied back, “Oh, it’s okay,” taking a moment to breathe before continuing, “You didn’t mean it. How are you?”

Relieved to find Fluttershy relaxed quickly, Spitfire answered, “The fleet and I are looking for Rainbow Dash. We’re doing your friend, Rarity, a favor. I don’t suppose you know where she is?”

Fluttershy was quick to answer, getting to see her and Summer Breeze walking together just a few minutes ago, “Yes! I do believe they were on their way to the hors d'oeuvre table…” extending out a hoof, pointing the Wonderbolts saying, “…that way!”

Spitfire took to notice her choice of words and said, “‘They’ you say? Sounds like we’re right on time! Have a good night Fluttershy!”

Fluttershy waved them off, feeling so happy to still be a part of Rarity’s operation.

Rarity was seen mingling by Applejack once again. She raised an eyebrow once she saw that stallion dubbed as “that Tux fellow,” but had chosen not to make a fuss all over again. Everypony had contributed something to this project, resulting in Rainbow and Summer finally together talking, and that was as much as Applejack could hope would happen. She and Pinkie Pie then approached Rarity as she was talking with Snazzy Tux and the others. Applejack allowed Pinkie to get Rarity’s attention, as she tapped on her shoulder.

Rarity looked back in curiosity and upon seeing her two friends, she turned to them and asked hastily, “What happened?!”

Applejack then announced, “We did it Rare! RD and SB are finally together.”

Rarity beamed at this, exclaiming, “Splendid!”

She then squealed and frolicked in place like a school filly, resuming then to a more mature stance, realizing she was in the company of the higher class.

Snazzy seemed to be the only pony in his group not put off by Rarity’s giddy display. Pinkie asked after that, “So what’s next Rarity?!”

It was out of her hooves now, Rarity realized. She turned to face Applejack and Pinkie Pie more directly. The two saw her take a most solemn and dignified posture with her eyes closed.

They both held their breaths as Rarity opened her eyes and said, “We pray and hope that everything works accordingly tonight.”

She took a hoof to her eye, resembling the shorthooved Pinkie Promise gesture, though in case Rarity was utilizing it to salute her friends. Applejack and Pinkie saluted in kind with smiles, as Rarity dismissed them saying, “We all are now free to enjoy the Gala.”

The two then nodded back and made their departure.

Rainbow and Summer were halfway through each of their punch as they were laughing and enjoying each other’s company.

Summer asked in amused skepticism, “The whole town? She caused the whole town of Ponyville to fight over a doll?!”

Rainbow took another sip and amended saying, “Well maybe not the whole town. Like there were me and my friends who didn’t look at it, for example. I doubt everypony was outside when it happened, but a lot of ponies fought tooth and hoof over that Smarty Pants!”

Summer could hardly believe what she was hearing. She was quite aware of this once-unicorn whom Rainbow said had caused the incident she described.

She sought more clarification asking, “And you’re telling me that this Twilight who enchanted the doll is the very same Princess Twilight Sparkle here tonight?!”

Rainbow nodded slowly in confirmation. Strange, Pinkie Pie hadn’t mentioned any of this ever since Summer moved to Ponyville, and she talks a lot!

Summer took the glass close to her face, narrowed her eyes, and in a playful tone said, “I don’t believe you!”

Rainbow snickered as Summer sipped more of her punch and insisted, “Maybe after tonight you can ask her yourself. She does live now at the edge of Ponyville.”

Summer could almost believe her in the face of a challenge like that.

Still though, having taken a certain liking to the pegasus, challenged back teasingly with a sly smile, “Maybe I will.”

They continued drinking their punch together, which though was mild, it still had enough kick to bring out a little hilarity between the two.

After another moment of comfortable silence between the two, Summer had decided to ask certain questions. She had heard some things about Rainbow and her friends through her friend, Pinkie Pie. That puffy maned mare had been Summer’s closest friend in Ponyville, yet she couldn’t help but find her rather strange. Even the most plausible stories she’s heard seemed somewhat far fetched coming from Pinkie. Subjects ranged from Rarity’s abduction by the Diamond Dogs to Trixie’s short-lived fame in Ponyville, from the swarm of the parasprites to the swarm of the Pinkie Pies, thought of the latter making her shudder a bit.

Rainbow gladly obliged to tell her side of all those events, much of which to Summer’s wonder, aligned well to Pinkie’s recounting. Rainbow was sort of stunned at how she made no mention of villains like Nightmare Moon, Discord, or Tirek yet. She reasoned that Pinkie just hasn’t told Summer these things, but even that idea seemed off to Rainbow. Pinkie might have kept quiet on some stories for Princess Luna and reformed Discord’s sake; on the other hoof, Sombra and Tirek must have come up at least once from that pony who talked her mouth off like no tomorrow! It was nice, however, just talking with Summer, impressing her even over less than epic trials.

Amid Rainbow and Summer’s lively conversation, Spitfire saw the perfect random timing to swoop in, figuratively. She nudged Soarin to speak, making it seem less suspicious, so she thought.

“Hey Rainbow!” Soarin called out, as he and the rest of the team approached. Rainbow was shocked to see her Wonderbolt peers.

“I’m not on the program tonight though,” she thought to herself, fearing they were going to ask her to fly with them later.

“Plus I’m busy!” she shouted in her mind, praying Spitfire wasn’t just about to ruin her time with Summer Breeze.

Rainbow withheld her panic and raised her punch to them saying, “Hey guys! What’s up?”

Spitfire stepped forward and answered, “We just wanted to see how our best flyer is enjoying the Gala before we perform tonight.”

“Having a great time here,” Rainbow said, with the hint of nerves creeping into her voice. Summer was taken a bit by how Spitfire called her new and interesting friend best flyer. Pinkie sure wasn’t fooling, she thought.

She observed closely to see where this turn of events was heading.

Spitfire continued her favor to Rarity saying, “That’s good to hear. I was wondering also if you wouldn’t mind me using you to inspire some of our cadets here before they watch us perform.”

Rainbow considered a second, looked the next second at Summer, who seemed to smile encouragingly with a curiously raised forehoof, taking the third to answer, “uh, Sure. Why not?”

Spitfire smiled and called the cadets forward to see Rainbow Dash and listen in on everything she said about her. She began her brief lecture as Rainbow attempted to sit in a dignified position, hiding as much of her edginess as she could. Spitfire had made some mention of Rainbow’s physical achievements. What she ended up speaking more on, however, was Rainbow’s deeper qualities, such as honor, loyalty, commitment towards her fellow flyers, etc. Rainbow felt overwhelmed by what Spitfire was saying, as thought all this was new to her. She felt somehow humbled, but didn’t quite know why. Perhaps it was because this was all being presented while Summer was around. That had to be it, Rainbow figured, as she had attempted earlier not to be too egotistical, but now there was Spitfire laying out some of her best qualities for all to see, and… Then it hit her. This had Rarity’s name written all over it. She began to smile more, understanding now how Spitfire must have been put up to this.

As Spitfire was nearing the end of what must have been a ten to fifteen minute lecture, the cadets listening had gained a sense of pride in Rainbow Dash. Summer Breeze herself took enjoyment in the presentation, only to find herself in awe at what happened next.

Spitfire then addressed all the trainees saying, “Now, in unison: What is most important lesson Rainbow Dash taught me?”

At once, the small group of cadets saluted, saying together, using their indoor voices, “It's not just about pushing ourselves. It's about pushing ourselves in the right direction!”

Spitfire nodded proudly and said, “Great! Now let’s get on out there and prepare for the show.”

The rest nodded and walked away in the direction of the botanical gardens. Further outside would be where ponies go to watch their aerial performance. As Spitfire turned back to Rainbow, she said, “You enjoy the Gala now Rainbow Dash, and…” turning to the other pony. This other pony, suddenly shy, finished the sentence, “…Summer Breeze.” Then seeing Summer turning her gaze to Rainbow, Spitfire took the quick chance, and offered a wink. That had to be her way of cluing Rainbow in on what was really going on.

As Spitfire made her departure, a question came to Summer, causing her to prance over calling, “Wait!” Rainbow followed, feeling curious, as the sound of their approach reached Spitfire’s ears. She turned to find Summer clearly having something on her mind, and remained silent.

Summer was hesitant for a second, but then asked, “Is it true that Rainbow Dash saved three of you during the Best Young Flyer competition?”

Rainbow couldn’t tell if that apparent doubt was a good or bad sign. Summer did sound excited though, so she rested on good sign.

Spitfire blinked, smiled, and said, “Wow that was sure a long time ago. As a matter of fact, she did! Carried Soarin, Misty Fly, and myself on her back, along with…” feigning uncertainty, “Rarity was it Dash?”

Rainbow said nothing, only nodding in response. Spitfire chuckled a bit and added, “Not that I actually remember what happened. Bitch knocked me out cold in her panic!”

Summer gaped at that last statement and joined in the laughter between Rainbow and Spitfire.

Catching herself then, Spitfire whispered, “Don’t tell Rarity I called her that, alright?” Rainbow and Summer both nodded in agreement, after which Rainbow put a hoof to her eye, a gesture Summer found familiar, so she followed suit. With that settled, Spitfire bid them a good Gala, again, and took her leave to join her fleet.

A moment later, yet another thought had occurred to Summer then, after seeing Rainbow’s flight peers. She gave Rainbow a confused look, who returned the same.

Something was missing, so she inquired, “Hey, you’re a Wonderbolt too, aren’t you?”

“Yeah,” Rainbow replied with upward inflection.

Summer tilted her head and continued, “Then why aren’t you flying with them tonight?” Understanding the confusion, Rainbow smiled and explained, “Oh that! Well you see, the flight patterns used for the Gala only have a certain number of flyers, so we rotate every year.” Summer’s head rose at this, almost feeling silly for even asking.

“That makes sense,” she conceded, “have you ever performed for the Gala?”

Rainbow Dash nodded and said, “Yeah, like two years ago. This year is Gale Force’s turn. Then I’ll be training to take Soarin’s position next year!”

Summer’s jaw fell in a wide smile, remembering herself how Soarin was among the high ranks in the Wonderbolt league.

“That sounds incredible!” she said, “I’ll have to be sure to watch that next Gala!”

Rainbow was feeling so sure of herself now, finding that she didn’t even need to try to impress. Seeing Summer Breeze as just another pony seemed to be doing wonders, treating her like she was a new friend, as Fluttershy suggested. Rainbow would have to find a way to repay her friends for getting her this far.

Applejack and Pinkie Pie were keeping each other company, despite Rarity’s advisement for them to remain separate, when they saw the Wonderbolts. Applejack couldn’t help but notice that Spitfire wasn’t amongst them, as would be expect. It took a minute for Pinkie then to find Spitfire, strutting proudly. Her sense of accomplishment was so evident to them both.

They trotted over and Applejack asked Spitfire as she and Pinkie walked alongside her, “So Spitfire, Fluttershy told me how Rarity asked you all to help Rainbow Dash out?”

She wasn’t specific on what, wishing for Spitfire to verify Rarity’s claim of what she did.

Spitfire glanced over and said, “She sure did…and we did!”

Pinkie gasped and asked, “You mean you made Dashie out to look like a Wonderbolt all-star in front of Breezy?!”

“Yep,” Spitfire replied, “and from the look on that mare’s face, I’d say it was mission accomplished!”

Pinkie was so pleased to hear that, but Applejack, being logical, had to ask, “And you reckon she didn’t suspect a thing?”

Spitfire blew a small raspberry and said, “Hey, even if she did a little, which I don’t think she did, you should have seen how she was!”

Applejack smirked at that answer as she pictured a new member of the Rainbow Dash Fan Club. Spitfire excused herself, needing to catch up with the fleet. Applejack looked on as she departed smiling, only to then feel her face smooshed between two hooves, pulling her close to Pinkie Pie’s own.

Pinkie shouted in excitement, “Oh my goodness! We have to tell Twilight!” and rushed away.

Applejack began running after her, calling out, “Pinkamena, you get your flank back over here right now!”

Meanwhile, Fluttershy was seated on a plush cushion next to Twilight, trying to recollect how she ended up on the royal platform. She had just been walking by, she remembered, when Twilight called out, inviting her up. The cushion was ordered by Princess Luna for Fluttershy, which came only moments later, and there she found herself. It was simple, but still overwhelming for her to be seated amongst the Princesses, even though one of them was one of her closest friends. They reviewed on what happened during the train ride over, which switched quickly from the new train’s reduction on pollution to other matters of the environment. Fluttershy was quite adept in the subject of environmental protection. She and the Princesses got deep into discussion, especially on how major cities like Manehattan impacted Equestria and the animals living therein. Princess Luna expressed her concerns in particular for the more nocturnal wildlife. She was glad to have so much common ground with that pegasus. Despite her usual taking to rest at night, Fluttershy had often worried over such creatures in an ever-developing world as Equestria was becoming. She had mentioned how relieved she was to know how safe nocturnal animals were in the botanical garden. She had caught a glimpse of a few earlier outside earlier, she said also, when telling Rainbow Dash about Summer Breeze’s arrival to the Gala. And just like that, everypony, including Fluttershy herself, jumped on the subject on Rainbow and her special secret somepony.

Applejack had managed to catch up with Pinkie Pie, but it was already too late.

She just arrived near the royal platform as Pinkie exclaimed, “Twilight! You’ll never believe what Spitfire just did!”

Applejack then heard Twilight replying with the same energy as Pinkie, “I know! I saw the whole thing from up here!”

After seeing Applejack coming up, Twilight gestured her hoof and saying to both her and Pinkie, “Come on up and join us!” pointing then to four other cushions ordered in advance. Pinkie took a step forward, ready to run, only to feel her tail being yanked by Applejack. Pinkie gave her an annoyed glare, but Applejack proved unyielding. Twilight was confused by this, as were the other Princesses and Fluttershy.

Applejack then expressed some worry and said, “That’s nice of you to offer there, Twi, but Rarity did say we ought to be keeping our distance now.”

Pinkie then offered her comeback point saying, “But you and I have been together since we left Dashie.”

Applejack combated the point saying, “Yeah well that was just two of us, Pinkie. Imagine what Summer would think if she saw the four of us up there with the Princesses?”

She winced a bit, realizing what she had just said inadvertently denied Twilight’s regality. Twilight, not noticing that herself, smiled at Applejack saying, “Nopony’s going to see us AJ. The Gala’s out there, not here.”

Princess Celestia backed Twilight’s invitation to her friends saying, “Besides, the more the merrier.”

Princess Luna and Fluttershy nodded and hummed together in agreement. With Applejack being the only dissenting voice around, she surrendered to both peer and regal pressure, thus allowing herself and Pinkie to take seating near the thrones.

She then eyed the last vacant cushion and said, “I doubt we’ll be seeing Rarity here.”

Twilight tilted her head with a sly expression asking, “Snazzy?”

“Darn tootin’,” Applejack confirmed.

The four young friends laughed together, leaving the royal sisters at a loss. Twilight noticed their confusion and asked Applejack to explain on the subject of Snazzy Tux.

Away from Twilight and her company, meanwhile, Rainbow Dash and Summer Breeze’s friendship was blooming rapidly. Rarity could see this afar off, admiring the fantasy brought to life by her. Something had caught her eyes then, causing her to ignore everything besides the mare she had come to know as Summer Breeze. She felt a certain déjà vu, but not so much Summer herself, rather more…around her. Around her body, covering her body, that dress? That dress! Rarity gasped slowly and softly, and then whispered,

“Green Sea at Night…” Rarity finally remembered. That dress Summer was wearing had come from her boutique. By her own hooves and magic was that dress made. It was all coming back to her, looking back to the Great Gala Sale six months back. So many customers flashed through Rarity’s mind and then paused on that one face. She had seen Summer in her store before the Gala! How could she have missed that this whole night?! As suddenly as the world around Summer faded, it all came back, when a familiar voice rang in her ear.

Rarity turned around to see Snazzy Tux looking rather perplexed by her awestruck behavior.

“Miss Belle? Are you quite alright, my dear?”

Rarity came back to the world in less than a second and answered, “Oh, yes,” sweetly giggling, “I just saw something, is all.”

Snazzy’s brows rose high and his smile grew wide. Curiosity took him by storm as he insisted, “Well do tell!”

Rarity blushed a moment, hesitating, then finding no harm in explaining, directed Tux’s sights on Rainbow and Summer, particularly Summer.

“It had just occurred to me,” Rarity began, taking a hoof to the face resuming, “I can’t believe that I didn’t see it before,” then pointed back at Summer, “but that dress came from my boutique in Ponyville!”

Snazzy had found that coincidence rather delightful. He then asked Rarity to clarify further, “From your boutique? Would I be right in assuming then that you are the very pony who made it?”

Rarity nodded, gaining a charming chuckle from the stallion.

“Isn’t it funny,” Snazzy concluded, “that we should find ourselves meeting here tonight, seeing each other’s clients wearing our products courting each other?”

Rarity smiled upon hearing that, then switched to shock, understanding the possible implication Snazzy was making.

Her smile returned, though coyer as she said, “Why, yes, it is. What are the odds?”

A few minutes later, the lights began to dim slightly, drawing everypony’s attention to the stage. The curtains parted, revealing Octavia and her new orchestra. Most members appeared to be rather young, more or less in their early twenties, maybe even younger. To the right was seen a pianist. The rest of musical ensemble was comprised of ponies bearing various stringed instruments, including a few violins and violas, even one double bass, the last of which might not have been there had the stallion playing not been quite large himself. Octavia stepped forward to speak to all in the ballroom, as everypony lightly stomped at the floor in applause. When she stopped, Octavia remained silent until the short applause faded.

“Good evening,” She began, “it is so good to be here with you all tonight to celebrate the founding of Canterlot, the capital of Equestria. I would like to extend my thanks to Princesses Celestia, Luna, and Twilight Sparkle for graciously having my musicians play here at the Grand Galloping Gala!”

Another round of light stomping of hooves reverberated throughout the room. Each of the three Princesses bowed their heads to this, while Applejack and Fluttershy crouched slightly to obscure themselves. Pinkie Pie was about to wave to the crowd, but Applejack urged her to keep low.

It took a bit longer for the applause to die down once again, since it was after all for the Princesses.

When the room became silent, Octavia continued her introductions saying, “It is my great pleasure to share with you the talents of these ten sitting behind me. I found each of them during my one year travel throughout Equestria, in pursuit to inspire and nurture the passion for music in others.” Octavia paused a moment to sigh and continued, “These ponies have worked hard to get here tonight, to play for all of you.”

Another moment of silence fell as she seemed to start getting emotional.

“And I am most proud to be among these fine musicians here at the Gala. Give them another round of applause!”

In accord to Octavia’s words, everypony’s hooves stomped harder, and longer for her orchestra. Even she turned to face her musicians, sat down, and clapped her hooves for them.

Turning back then to give her final words, Octavia said, “Now in case anypony has picked up the program flyers near the entrance, though seriously, who reads those anyway…” [ba-dum-TSH!] She was cut off by the unexpected sound of snare drums from nopony knew where.

“Vinyl!” she shouted, as laughter filled the ballroom. That sound couldn’t have come from any other source than her DJ roommate, wherever she was.

Octavia recovered quickly from the slight embarrassment, taking to humor herself in what just happened. As the room became quiet and her blush faded, she carried on her saying,

“Anyway, contrary to our original plan, we will be starting off tonight with Prélude de Amour Pour la Vie [Change name later?]. It is a short sample from the hour-long composition written by Andante Sonata.” She gave a quick stomp of her hoof announcing, “So grab your partners, friends, lovers, as we will begin in five minutes.”

Octavia then turned and joined her class of musicians, taking seat next to the large stallion with the double bass. She took her own cello and positioned herself and the bow. This was indeed going to be one of her best nights ever, she felt, to work alongside her students, counting herself among them. The lights brightened up again, alerting many ponies to start off in pairs towards the spacious dance floor.

As Princesses Celestia and Luna happily looked on the gathering couples getting ready to dance, Twilight, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy scanned around to find Rainbow Dash and Summer Breeze. A sudden flash of light then took everypony by surprise, where then manifested a certain late arrival: Discord.

He was seen dressed in an elegant suit, as he bowed himself to six saying, “Evening my ladies, so happy to see you all here tonight.”

Twilight raised him an eyebrow saying, “A bit late, aren’t you?” Discord scoffed at her remark and answered, “Fashionably,” pulling out a pocket watch which immediately sprang apart, sending small gears and springs flying.

“And your guest?” Princess Celestia inquired, remembering that she had sent him two tickets to the Gala. Discord smiled and said, “Oh, I brought myself!”

Applejack shot an annoyed glare at that enigmatic draconequus asking, “Yourself?”

She then wished she hadn’t asked that, as another Discord was seen walking from behind the first.

The first Discord then said, “Oh, and I hope you don’t mind…” followed by the second Discord, “…that I brought a third…”

Everypony’s jaw dropped as they saw yet another Discord appear from behind the second, this third Discord then fisnished, “having only two tickets, that is.”

Princesses Celestia and Luna looked at each other, deciding how to deal with this situation. Two tickets meant two guests, but Discord brought himself, himself, and…himself? Shock took them once again as two lion paws reached towards each of the two.

The sisters looked at two of the Discords who said in unison, “May we have these dances, ladies?”

The sisters shared with each other stunned expressions. Princess Celestia then felt her side being slightly elbowed by Twilight, getting both her and her sister’s attention. Twilight just smiled and bobbed her eyebrows thrice. They didn’t know which was stranger: The prospect of dancing with Discord of all ponies or the very fact that Twilight Sparkle was actually encouraging this. Looking back towards each other, the sisters then smiled, coming quickly to terms with this risky, yet fun sounding invitation.

“We’d be delighted…Discords,” Princess Celestia finally said. With that, each of the two took the paw of each Discord, and made their way down to the dance floor. Twilight grinned at this, almost not believing what she had just gotten them to do.

She then noticed the lion paw of the third Discord, who upon looking up towards, heard him ask, “Shall we Princess?”

Twilight smiled apologetically and answered, “I think I’m going to sit this one out,” then not wanting to be a total bummer said, “Rain check?”

He smiled menacingly at that and answered teasingly, “I’ll hold you to it!”

The third Discord then turned to another mare asking, “How about you Fluttershy?” Twilight and Applejack gave Fluttershy looks of suspense while Pinkie Pie just gave a smiling gape. Her timid nature would have usually stood in the way in situations such as this; however, Fluttershy had been in the mood for dancing ever since her time on the train with Trusty Hooves. A smile and blush came to her face as she reached out her hoof and uttered shyly,

“Yes,” giggling a bit after. Taking her hoof then into his paw, the third Discord led Fluttershy out as she hovered for reason of his height. This left Twilight, Applejack, and Pinkie on the royal platform laughing among themselves.

After calming down then, Pinkie Pie asked Twilight, “So why didn’t you want to dance with Discord like the other Princesseses? It could have been fun!”

Taking a moment to catch her breath, Twilight answered, “Because I want to see how Rainbow does out there!”

“And Rarity too,” Applejack said teasingly, having not forgotten Rarity’s own personal goals.

As Octavia was readying herself to play with her orchestra, Rarity saw the chance to play a certain mind trick.

As some of her new peers departed in pairs, she turned to Snazzy, and said, “Well, Mister Tux, it’s been a great pleasure meeting you, but I feel I should be returning to my friends now.”

Without the slightest bit of hesitation, she bowed her head, and walked off.

Not a few steps forward, however, as she planned, Snazzy said, “Leaving so soon, are we?”

Carefully, Rarity paused herself, turning back to the stallion asking, “Was there something else?” giving him a seductive smile.

He stepped forward, and then leaning down with a knowing look, said, “I know what you’re doing Miss Belle.”

Rarity’s face fell as she said nervously, “Oh?”

Snazzy hummed in the positive and continued, “Though I was just about to ask you anyway,” not seeing the need to be specific. Rarity started feeling guilty at her attempt to manipulate him, but at the same time recognized a loose end to his statement, so remained silent.

Raising his head back up, Snazzy then asked, “Would you, Rarity, like to…”

“Yes!” Rarity exclaimed, cutting him off. Her interruption was more sparked by Snazzy’s use of her first name than anything else. He smiled at her eagerness, allowing Rarity to not feel embarrassed as she smiled back.

During the five minutes of which Octavia spoke before the music began, Rainbow Dash was watching the many couples gathering onto the dance floor in front of the stage. Summer Breeze was standing next to her, Rainbow glanced, seeming to just admire the scene. She felt a mild blush coming to her face, so Rainbow took a deep breath in and out, hoping that might help. This was the moment, she realized. “Now or never,” she thought. Rainbow worked through her nerves to form a smile as she repeated in her mind, “Just another pony, just another pony, just another pony.”

Finally, she said, “Summer?”

That was all she could say so far, but at least there was no turning back. Maybe sideways, but it was still a good thought, she hoped. Summer’s attention to the gathering couples broke at the sound of her name. Her soft smile fell and her eyes widened. Just the very timing was…No, it wasn’t necessarily what she thought. Was it? She turned her face towards the pegasus next to her. She was facing full front towards Summer, not side to side. Summer moved to face her the same way.

“Yes, Rainbow?” she finally said in return. Summer was a bit taller, Rainbow knew that, of course she did, but at that moment, she felt so tiny. It was either flee left or flee right or…

“May I have this dance?” Rainbow asked quickly. Smooth, she thought, but also so stupid, she felt! She tried her best to grin, unable to tell whether she looked goofy doing it or not.

Summer’s face was blank for only a second, before a smile rose, as she said, “I would like that.” At the moment Rainbow heard those four words, her nervous grin had transformed to a more sincerely glad smile.

Not taking a moment to think, she asked excitingly, “Really! I mean…”

Summer giggled and stepped closer saying, “Lead the way.”

The way? Lead? Right, Rainbow tried to recover her sense of cool and walk Summer to where Rarity had recommended earlier.

“About thirty paces away from the Alicorn Statue,” Rainbow thought, “that’s what Rarity said.”

She didn’t know why, but she felt it was a good idea not to look back at Summer, who was walking almost halfway behind. It seemed right because she was leading the way. She didn’t need to look back though, knowing for sure Summer was following. Just something about her very presence made Rainbow feel warm. Soon as they reached location near the Alicorn Statue, Rainbow stopped and turned to Summer. She smiled as that styled mane seemed to glow with rays of the sun before her eyes. Rainbow tried to convince herself that it was just the chandeliers above glaring back on Summer’s hair. The two got into position, happily waiting for the dance to begin.

Discords One and Two were escorting Princesses Celestia and Luna out near the stage, as ponies around cleared the area to give the royal sisters space. The two sisters resisted from being kept too far apart by the two Discords. The very idea of accepting this dance with the former Lord of Chaos was a matter to take with caution, but at the same time neither Princesses Celestia and Luna could deny the thrill. When Discord Three stopped near the middle of the dance floor, Fluttershy lowered herself back to the floor. She looked up with a smile, assessing the height difference, wondering how they would properly execute this dance. Discord Three, not being lost to Fluttershy’s thoughts, then had his arms slide down from their usual place right below where his coat turned gray. Fluttershy laughed at his solution, but gladly drew closer. As Discord Three wrapped his avian arm around Fluttershy, taking her left fore hoof into his lion paw, she suddenly felt herself being elevated. She didn’t see that coming, but after a second of shock, she giggled. The two regal sisters, deep down, may have had their own reservations in dancing with this draconequus, but Fluttershy trusted Discord with all her heart, or well most of it rather.

As there was still time before the music started, Fluttershy asked Discord Three, “I hope you’re not too disappointed about not dancing with Twilight.”

Discord Three smiled and said, “I actually expected her to decline my offer.”

“Oh?” Fluttershy said, not seeing how to make sense of his inviting Twilight in the first place. He was the sort to not make any sense anyway, so she settled with that concept.

Fluttershy then noticed on this third Discord’s face a mild blush appearing, making her feel curious.

“There’s more, isn’t there?” she asked, “There always is with you.”

Realizing the involuntary color appearing on his face, a light flashed around them, turning his face back to a look of innocence.

“Discord…” Fluttershy pressed on, as she raised him an eyebrow to show how unconvinced she was. His smile fell, realizing he just couldn’t fool her any more. His eyes then moved to the side, literally rolling from the front of his face to his left temple, avoiding eye contact.

Sighing then, he confessed, “Maybe I wanted an excuse to dance with you.”

Fluttershy gaped a little at this. He arrived late, just in time for the dance, coming in a set of three, two asking Princesses Celestia and Luna for a dance, the third him asking Twilight, knowing she’d say no, all just to ask Fluttershy? She closed her mouth to smile warmly at him.

“Oh Discord,” she said softly, “You didn’t need to do all that.” Discord Three seemed unconvinced. Realizing this, Fluttershy lowered her blushing face, keeping her eyes on his face, and said quietly, “I’ve been waiting.”

At that, Discord Three’s eyes continued rolling from his temple into his left ear, popping back to the front opened widely.

“You have?” he asked, shocked at what she just confessed. Fluttershy just hummed in the positive and the two smiled at each other.

When the five minutes were up, the lights dimmed once again, signaling everypony that the orchestra was about to start playing. There was no conductor facing the musicians, not even Octavia, since she herself was playing amongst them. After three seconds of silence, the sitting cellist stomped her right hind hoof loudly three times, and the pianist began playing Bu-bu-bumm, bu-bu-bumm… Rainbow tilted her face down as though pointing an invisible horn towards Summer and stepped forward. Summer read the gesture and proceeded to join her forehead with Rainbow’s. The violinists then entered with a single soft, yet dramatic note over the piano [Dada-dun du-dun du-dunn…dummm]. Rainbow then began to lightly push forward, to push Summer back, who smiling, felt a playful urge to push Rainbow back in kind. The violists joined in, perfectly harmonized with the sounds of the piano and violins. Rainbow was pushing her head against Summer’s again, asserting her leading role. Summer surrendered with a smile, as she followed Rainbow’s forehead back. Both Octavia and her double bass playing stallion then entered, adding a sort of dramatic echo to the violins as the violists played seem to foreshadow notes which violinists were about to play. Rainbow remembered then to raise her left hoof, signaling Summer to do likewise, as they continued to ebb and flow.

The entire ballroom was filled with the soft and sweet sounds of humming strings [Hm-hm Hm-hm-hm-hmhmhmhmhmhmhmm! Hmmhm hm-hmm-hm hm hmm hmmm] Their left cheeks were pressed together, Rainbow and Summer’s, as they swayed back and forth, not failing to recognize how warm each other’s faces felt. Rainbow was careful not to make the tickling ear contact Rarity warned her about back on the train. They each felt each other’s breathing flow down their necks to their shoulders. The moment a particularly high note was heard, Rainbow felt it was time to initiate the “hug,” taking thus her raised left hoof to pull Summer in close, crossing their necks. Summer embraced her in return with her left. They then rested each other’s heads on the other’s neck, closing their eyes as they enjoyed the atmosphere around them. Their rocking was in sync with each breath in and every breath out.

Neither Rainbow Dash nor Summer Breeze were getting bored of their relaxed motions. Rainbow began to feel something at her chest then. A beating, a beating heart, but it was not hers she realized. It was Summer’s heartbeats she was feeling. Oh, she could go on like this forever, but she knew well the next phase had to come. With Rarity’s melodic hums engrained in her mind, not consciously aware of the similarity to the sounds coming from Octavia’s orchestra, a note like lightning struck her mind. With her right hoof, Rainbow raised Summer from under her left foreleg as they stepped towards each other on their hind legs. Summer gasped as she was lifted, but relaxed when her eyes met again with those dark, pink (Moderate cerise) eyes. She could feel Rainbow’s right hoof slide down her left side, as Rainbow’s left hoof traveled down her right foreleg. This urged her right hoof then to join her left behind Rainbow’s neck. Their eyelids fell half shut as the smiled and began to rotate. Rainbow then began to meditate on Twilight’s favorite toy device: The Gyroscope.

As Octavia’s orchestra played on, Twilight Sparkle, Applejack, and Pinkie Pie stared on at each of their friends out dancing. None of the three envied the fun out there beyond the royal platform. Too much of their hearts were fully taken by contentment in Princesses Celestia and Luna, for Fluttershy, and especially for Rainbow Dash and Summer Breeze.

“Star Swirl the Bearded wasn’t kidding,” Twilight whispered, “when he said that ‘Seeing is not always believing’.”

Pinkie Pie countered that saying, “Well I’m seeing, and believing,” then quietly squealed as she repressed her voice, “and I’m SO happy!”

Applejack hadn’t been listening to either of them. Her smile was so big that her dimples took up the lower half of her vision.

She then whispered to nopony in particular, “Way to go RD.”

A few seconds passed silently until Pinkie said, “I wonder how much fun Discord is having.”

Twilight then answered with a sarcastic tone in her voice, “Probably as much fun as Discord and Discord are having.”

All three then giggled at the joke.

As Discords One and Two led the Princesses in an unusually calm and orderly dance, Princess Celestia, led by Discord Two, asked her sister nearby.

“How do you think Rainbow Dash is doing?”

Princess Luna looked out into the sea of dancers, saw Rainbow and Summer in their slow rotation.

“Quite well, I should say,” she answered. This exchange of words was not missed by either of the two Discords as the asked as one, “Rainbow Dash?” turning their faces in the direction Princess Luna was looking.

He, or they, saw Rainbow dancing with another mare. Discord One then said to himself, “I guess that makes sense.”

This caught Princess Luna’s off guard as she said, “Didst thou just sayeth ‘that makes sense’?”

Discord One was silent and the other Discord Two answered, “I did!” Princess Celestia was confused as she asked, “Did what?”

She then heard the other Discord leading her sister, “Say that Rainbow Dash dancing with a mare makes sense.”

This stunned both sisters, not only in what he, or they, just said, but how neither Discord seemed to be disturbed the phrase.

Princess Luna, troubled by this, began to raise her voice saying, “But, that doesn’t make any…wait…” she paused, catching herself.

With the dance uninterrupted, the sisters then looked up at the each of their Discords, each one looking back with a smug smile. In sync, Princesses Celestia and Luna looked away, thought, and still happy to be confused by their friend who was by principle confusing, laughed together.

Meanwhile, near the Alicorn Statue, Rainbow Dash and Summer Breeze had been in their steady gyration. Rainbow then took her left hoof from Summer’s side, extending it out with her elbow pointed down. Summer, in the same moment, automatically did the same with her right hoof, holding on then to Rainbow’s. She was immediately taken aback as Rainbow made a thrust sideways, adjusting herself to this new direction she was taking. They then began to continue their rotation, only this time moving around in a larger circle. Rainbow sustained the major circuit as perfectly as she could without bumping into any couples. This dance, however, seemed to have a power of its own, Summer felt, as couples seemed to naturally move out of the private space Rainbow was forming. They carried on these motions, almost creating a personal world unto themselves.

As the two mares moved about in their circles, Rainbow Dash found a problem. She hadn’t thought about it prior on the train, but Summer was tall, not by much; nevertheless, her height could still pose a problem in the next move she was about to execute. She had to pull this off seven times as well, so she could only pray it worked. Rainbow listened carefully to the piano playing, ignoring the strings, then pausing herself and Summer at point one in the major circuit. Without thinking then, Rainbow raised Summer’s right hoof over her head, not to Summer’s full reach up, but it seemed enough. Then instantly with her right hoof, Rainbow moved Summer lightly to twirl, walked a full circle around her, still on hind legs, and caught her after. Their high held hooves lowered to the side and resumed the major circuit as before. “Thank both Celestia and Luna,” Rainbow thought, “just six more times, 90° apart, or whatever.”

Three more times she accomplished this same move at each of the other quarter points of the major circuit. Summer was looking more and more enthralled after each spin she went through. Confidence grew more and more as Rainbow realized just how much fun Summer was having, and she didn’t even need to use her wings!

As they were spinning their way back to the first quarter of the circuit, a sudden chill came up through Rainbow’s wings.

“Sideways Dashie, sideways!” she remembered Rarity shouting. She had mastered this part after her embarrassing faux pas, but the memory still hit hard. Luckily, however, at the second twirl, Rainbow had an idea. She was going to modify the dance, despite herself being no expert, but she just did not want to revisit that moment back on the train. Upon reaching the first quarter point, Rainbow spun Summer once more, then tried something different. Still making contact with Summer’s raised hoof, she moved to one side of the spinning earth pony and stopped her, so they were side by side in the major circuit and their joint hooves were above. Then taking Summer’s left hoof into her right, Rainbow Dash then led her quickly straight through the circle. Their heads leaned towards each other as the pranced from one side to the next. That was actually more fun, she felt, than in the original version of the dance. What was it Rarity called that part again? “Crossing the Milky Way or something”? Whatever it was, it was time for the sixth and final twirl. Still touching Summer’s right hoof above, Rainbow walked a quarter of a circle back onto the major circuit. The sixth twirl was implemented, causing Summer this time to laugh, much like Fluttershy had when dancing with Trusty. Just like the previous five spins, Rainbow counted in her head, “4, 3, 2, GO!” catching Summer from the front, holding each other in their hooves as near the beginning. Her face expressed much excitement, turning to shock then, as Rainbow leaned forward, bending her back.

One hind hoof from each slid back for balance. Summer could almost swear she was nearly horizontal, concerned she was about to fall on her flank. She held onto the back of Rainbow’s neck as she hung. Rainbow kept back about 60° upward, drawing her face closer towards Summer’s, splaying down also her wings. The earth pony took a deep breath and could do nothing else, except gaze into those dark pink, half shut eyes. Rainbow Dash was the only reason Summer wasn’t falling, or was she even so falling? Rainbow had two more seconds to look into Summer Breeze’s eyes, those light, sky blue eyes.

“Okay, times up!” she thought, forcing herself to break the gaze and raise herself and Summer back up. Finally, the seventh twirl was made, and much to Summer’s relief, they held each other much closer. She found herself going circles within circles once again, feeling herself warm and safe in Rainbow’s hooves.

Their dance form was certainly unique capturing the attention of some, including the one unicorn in particular. Rarity had almost forgotten entirely about Rainbow Dash and Summer Breeze as she was led in dance by Snazzy Tux. Their form seemed to be related to the one she taught her friend. It didn’t quite have the same structures and constrictions as Rainbow and Summer, but appeared to be more freestyle. As the pianist finished his solo, and was rejoined by Octavia and her double bass partner, followed by the dramatic reentry of violists, Rarity found herself in a twirl over her own. Her concentration to the dance, however, was broken by the sight of seeing Rainbow. Her partner’s freestyle ball dance had apparently led them much closer to Rainbow and Summer, and Rarity almost collapsed when she saw them on the fourth quarter of the major circuit. Not caring who was watching then, she squealed and tip-hooved in place like a little filly.

Snazzy Tux was distressed by this interruption and asked, “I do say, Rarity, what has gotten you in such commotion?” Not missing the question, but not averting her sight either, Rarity pointed a hoof towards Rainbow and Summer. Snazzy looked on, seeing Rainbow bending Summer back, raising her up, and bring her into the seventh spin.

As the two mares resumed their constant circles, he smiled saying, “Well now, Miss Dash there certainly knows her way across the floor. I wonder where she learned such steps.”

Rarity tried to repress a giggle, drawing Snazzy’s eyes.

She then looked up saying, “Just a friend,” fluttering her eyes.

Earlier, Fluttershy and Discord Three had switched dance forms to have a better view of Rainbow and Summer.

Fluttershy laughed quietly and asked, “You told her ‘that makes sense’?!”

The draconequus did his best to withhold his deep and booming laughter.

“Oh, I really threw her and `Tia a curveball on that one!” he said, as more laughs slipped out despite his efforts.

It was after holding back a cheer for Rainbow Dash on the seventh twirl that a question came to Fluttershy.

“Discord,” she opened, “may I ask you something?”

A second passed before he said, “But of course, my dear.”

Fluttershy began returning to her faltering form of speech. She pondered a moment longer on whether there was even a logical answer to what was on her mind.

Finally, she asked, “Well, it’s just that…who am I dancing with right now?”

Discord drew his head back, quite taken in confusion by the question.

“What do you mean?” he asked concernedly. Fluttershy tried to rephrase her inquiry saying, “Am…am I dancing with, with you? I mean the real you, or are you just a copy?”

She looked away blushing, feeling somehow ashamed by the question. Discord smiled and snickered at this. Her inquisitive gaze rose to his face, pondering the nature of the snicker.

He answered, “Yes, the real me. I switched over from Lulu the moment you touched the ground.”

Fluttershy didn’t quite know what to think of that. Would Princess Luna care much about this sleight of hand deception? Should she herself worry about playing a hoof in it? As Octavia’s orchestra rose in volume, however, she couldn’t deny how happy she felt. Fluttershy relaxed herself, as she continued being led.

The humming of strings had begun to diminish slowly, giving Rainbow Dash a sense it was nearing its conclusion. This piece written by Andante Sonata, may have been an hour-long symphony, but as Octavia explained earlier, only its Prélude opening was playing tonight.

Excerpts from other masterpieces would follow, but it was time to draw this dance to a close. It was difficult for Rainbow to accept this, as she felt Summer Breeze’s beating heart, and loved every thump against her own. It was time to move on, she realized, so in another thrust to the side, she led the mare in her hooves back into the center of it all. Summer’s calm was broken by this, making her wonder what that pegasus was up to this time. Returned to the great axis of the dance, their gyrating went on. The moment was almost disappointing to them both, knowing the end was coming. Violins quieted, violas, and Octavia rested her playing, as did her double bass player. All that filled the ballroom now were calm notes of the piano. Rainbow and Summer fell from their hind stand when this happened, clanking on the floor with three of their hooves, still holding each other close with their left forehooves. Releasing Summer from her embrace, Rainbow began to pull away and walk past her from the side. This incited Summer to follow her walking, as their eyes locked. The circled each other like a merry-go-round, becoming entranced in each other’s gazes.

It wasn’t quite over, but Rainbow Dash felt most victorious. It seemed as though she had a magnetic pull on Summer. She was no longer in her clutches, but still she followed with a look of fascination. The piano was coming up to its finish, Rainbow was sure, so now was the time tie the knot to this. With a slight to her right, Rainbow moved away from Summer, causing Summer to turn likewise. They walked now in their own individual loops, extending from the center to the edge of the major circuit. The sign of infinity was made as they met in the center once more. They rose their right forehooves leaning in, pressing their noses together with closed eyes. Rainbow Dash stepped back then, bowing herself to Summer. Summer returned the bow, which somehow at that moment stirred something in Rainbow she couldn’t explain. Whatever the feeling was, she couldn’t help her wings stretching back. She would have been embarrassed by this, remembering back to Rarity’s recommendation to the contrary; however, Summer seemed impressed by the display, much like she had before when she was bent backwards. The final low note was struck by the pianist, which after nearly fading to silence, drove all guests to stomp in applause for musicians.

As the applause went on, Octavia rested her cello on the stand and hugged the stallion seated next to her as the lights brightened up again. She got up hugged each of her students from behind, making her way to the pianist whom she gave a hug as well. She and her class of performers, however, were not the only one receiving cheers. Using the background ovation as a cover, Twilight Sparkle, Applejack, and Pinkie Pie cheered for their friends on the dance floor, particularly Rainbow Dash and Summer Breeze. Those three were not the only ones using this ploy, however, as Rarity and Snazzy, as well as Fluttershy and Discord, clapped on for Rainbow’s first dance with the pony of her dreams. Rarity was likely the giddiest of the seven whose attentions were focused on the two mares. Back on stage, after giving her personal congrats to her musicians, Octavia returned to the front of the stage.

After a moment’s silence, she said, “Thank you all. That was Prélude de Amour Pour la Vie [Change name later?] by Andante Sonata. If you would like to hear the rest of this masterpiece, it will be playing at the Broncowaltz Theater in Manehattan on the 16th of December…”

As she continued telling everypony where to get tickets to the performance, Summer turned to Rainbow and whispered, “That was so fun Rainbow! From everything Pinkie’s told me, I wouldn’t have guessed you could dance like that.”

Rainbow looked away bashfully and then, reflecting on the words of Trusty Hooves, said back, “Yeah, well, you gotta learn to have fun at these things some time, right?”

Summer returned a concurring smile and nod, sharing a quiet minute with Rainbow after.

After Octavia had finished her commercial slogan on behalf of the Broncowaltz Theater, a five minute intermission was announced. During that time, Princess Celestia was quite taken by the dance she shared with one of the Discords, as was Princess Luna.

The first of these sisters then said, “My, that certainly wasn’t like I expected.”

It was meant to be a positive statement, but inside she might have felt disappointment, maybe.

Her Discord Two rolled his eyes smiling and said, “I bet you figured something a bit more…tumultuous.” Princess Celestia looked away blushing, not sure if it was wise to confirm.

Princess Luna, however, was bold enough to admit, “Indeed,” turning from her sister’s Discord Two to her own, “we both had anticipated something less…slow.”

Both Discords laughed at that. The sisters looked at each other to read their expressions to decide what the other was thinking.

The Discord Two then said, “Wouldn’t that make me…”

“Us…” Discord One interjected.

“…predictable?” Discord Two finished asking?

Princess Celestia smiled at the Discords’ point and answered amusingly, “I suppose it would.”

Princess Luna nodded towards her sister.

Discord One then felt like asking, “I hope I didn’t disappoint Lulu,” earning a hot glare from Princess Luna.

To call her by the name Lulu was counted as insulting. Still though, a blushing smile came.

She answered her Discord saying, “To be honest, it was actually quite…” Princess Luna was too embarrassed to finish, so her sister inserted, “…nice.”

They shared flushed expressions. At once, both Discords threw their arms in the air exclaiming, “Splendid!” and in a flash of light, disappeared.

This shocked both Princesses Celestia and Luna, as well as surrounding ponies. After looking towards each other for a verbal impression, Princess Celestia rolled her eyes with a smile, saying, “Same Ole Discord!”

Meanwhile, Rainbow Dash was seen from a distance asking Summer Breeze something. Fluttershy couldn’t quite hear. Curiosity got to her then as she saw the two walking away from the dance floor.

She then heard Discord saying, “Oh, they’re going to grab some drinks now. Let’s go and congratulate them on their performance!”

“No!” Fluttershy quietly cried desperately.

She had still felt embarrassed from her earlier crash incident with Summer. It also seemed wise to her that Rainbow’s time with Summer was not to be interrupted. She couldn’t decide which of those two factors was more important. Not to mention she felt this situation was too delicate for Discord to engage. Discord looked at Fluttershy bewildered by her small, yet somehow dramatic protest.

“What is it, Fluttershy?” he asked. She hesitated, typical.Fluttershy didn’t feel like she could tell Discord either about the setup to get Rainbow and Summer together. She needed an excuse, which luckily didn’t take too long to find.

“um…How about another dance?” she said, trying to smile innocently, but failing to hide that something was ahoof.

Discord could see through Fluttershy’s act, but he shrugged it off, respecting whatever it was she was hiding.

“She’ll probably tell me tomorrow,” he thought to himself, then proceeded to answer, “Whatever you want, my dear.”

He may not have had the whole story, but he did have a pretty good idea of what it was.

At the same time, Rarity had so much to celebrate, both for herself and for her friend Rainbow Dash. She couldn’t decide for whom she was more excited; probably Rainbow since she had worked harder there, while getting close to Snazzy Tux was more a matter of luck for her. She saw her friend and Summer Breeze walking off for reasons she couldn’t say nor over which she concerned.

Snazzy had notice this himself, leading him to ask, “Shall we see your friend and commend her on her superb dancing?”

Rarity’s heart skipped a beat in horror at his idea, causing her to say alarmingly, “No! No-no-no!”

He was shaken by Rarity’s outburst, though muffled as it was, “Anything the matter, dear?” he asked.

At once, Rarity spun to face him and lean in close, making himself lean back like a fire neared its way.

Rarity then said carefully intensely above a whisper, “Too much work has gone into this. They mustn’t be disturbed!” Snazzy nodded his head as Rarity went on, “Rainbow is on her own tonight. Any additional social connections from now on can potentially set the whole plan off course!”

Snazzy’s face went from stunned to enthusiastic as he nodded listening to Rarity’s passion.

“My word,” he said, taken by Rarity’s logic, “you seem to be rather invested in their courtship.”

In seeing his comprehension, Rarity started to feel less tense. Her face softened and turned away coyly, almost embarrassed by being seen as investing in Rainbow’s courtship with Summer.

Her face turned back to Snazzy, lowered bashfully with her eyes still on his, and said, “She’s my friend. I want to make this her best night ever.”

Admiring her best wish and commitment towards her friend, he smiled saying, “I’m sure it will be. How about another dance then?”

Rarity grinned at his suggestion, needing to say nothing more.

Back on the royal platform, there was plenty of feedback being shared amongst Twilight Sparkle, Applejack, and Pinkie Pie.

“That…” Twilight said, pausing for emphasis, “was just amazing!”

Applejack then asked, “Y’all see what she did crossing that floor?”

She had been referring to Rainbow Dash’s personal alteration between the fifth and sixth twirl.

Knowing exactly this, Pinkie exclaimed, “I know! That was totally awesome!”

She then asked, “You think they’re going to kiss tonight?”

The other two thought a moment.

Twilight shook her head and said, “I don’t think so.”

“Probably too soon, I reckon,” Applejack added.

The girls then began cooking up their own plan on how to get Rainbow’s first kiss with Summer, deciding also to pass it by Rarity later. Their discussion was broken by the return of Princesses Celestia and Luna.

Pinkie Pie was the first to notice as she greeted them, “Hey your highnesseses!”

Upon hearing that, Twilight turned to them smiling. The sisters seemed happy after a dance with the Discords, sparking curiosity in the young alicorn.

“How was it?” asked Twilight. Princess Luna answered first saying, “Better than you would imagine.”

Twilight was pleasantly surprised to hear that from the one pony she couldn’t imagine enjoying dances herself.

Applejack smirked and said, “Really? Pull the other one Princess!”

Such a comment might have come off as rude had it been from any other pony. Being a close friend of Princess Twilight Sparkle, however, had allowed Applejack to speak more casually with the regal pair.

Princess Celestia laughed even at her retort as she insisted, “But it’s true, my little pony,” then turning to Twilight said, “You really missed out.”

Twilight smiled as she rolled her eyes and said, “Oh I’m sure I did.”

The two Princesses then took their seats and joined in the discussion the other three mares were having.

Summer Breeze had wanted to go out to the botanical gardens and Rainbow Dash accompanied her. There was hardly anypony outside during the performance of Octavia’s musical ensemble, except for a few couples who had chosen not to dance. They went to one of the servers who poured out for them glasses of more punch. A few of the animals began showing up, Summer pointed out. Rainbow then remembered Fluttershy’s disappointing experience of her first Gala trying and failing to befriend them all. Summer laughed as she was being told this story by Rainbow Dash, as told to her by Fluttershy.

“She actually chased them inside the Gala?!” she asked, hardly believing how ridiculous that sounded. Rainbow giggled at the memory nodding.

She swore saying, “By Celestia! Wallaroos, rabbits, spider monkeys, you name it. That’s the only part I got to see though. Also, Fluttershy all frazzled was screaming, ‘You are going to LOVE ME!!!’.”

The two shared a big laugh at that. Rainbow sure loved the sound of Summer’s laugh.

Recovering from her hilarity, Summer then said, “I don’t see how someone like Fluttershy could have a hard time with these animals.” After taking another sip of punch, placing her glass on the ground, she continued, “Watch this…”

Rainbow Dash was confused a moment, as Summer Breeze squatted down low to the ground, almost dragging her chin, it seemed as she slowly crawled away. She was heading towards a tree in the distance, from which Rainbow saw a spider monkey, probably the one she saw at her first Gala. Rainbow was fascinated, seeing the monkey was as well, both so curious as to Summer’s approaching the tree. She must have stopped two yards away from the trunk, then strangely covered her eyes with her hooves. Rainbow looked on from the distance, gaping as she saw the inquisitive primate slowly descending. She looked back at Summer, who just held still, still covering her eyes with a big smile. The spider monkey certainly had reservations, that much was clear, but its interest was stronger as it drew nearer and nearer to Summer. She did not move though, safe maybe for her grinning. Rainbow was simply astonished by what she saw. The monkey then began to touch Summer’s snout, jumping back a bit as she giggled. Again, though, it persisted to examine Summer, until it felt curious enough to grab her hooves and uncover her face. She simply stared back and said, “Hi.”

It seemed to start taking a warming to the earth pony, who nuzzled at the monkey’s belly. Feeling tickled, it decided to tickle back, hopping onto Summer’s back, and start wiggling its fingers on her side. That sight was so endearing to Rainbow; the way Summer Breeze was laughing and playing with that spider monkey.

Temptation finally crept into the pegasus, as she took one step forward, snapping a twig in the process. Immediately after, the few animals coming out, including the spider monkey, fled. “Sorry!” said Rainbow, hating herself instantly for ruining Summer’s fun.

Summer wasn’t too disappointed, however, as she giggled at Rainbow, though it sounded more like she was trying to hold back an even bigger laugh.

Finally, she turned to her hilarious friend and said, “It’s okay! Want to give it a try?”

Rainbow stepped back hesitantly, but said both giddily and nervously, “Alright…”

She got down and crawled her way towards Summer. Upon reaching, Summer nodded in gesture for Rainbow to cover her eyes, which she did, and Summer after.

“Now wait,” Summer said. A minute passed when Rainbow started feeling a bit bored, only to then start hearing Summer making clicking sounds from the back corner of her tongue. A few seconds after then, Rainbow found her hooves being moved away from her eyes by what she’d hate to admit was the cutest wallaroo she’d ever seen. Further out looked like the mother, so Rainbow held still not wanting to offend the marsupial.

The baby wallaroo started to play with Rainbow’s face, mainly smooshing her cheeks and tickling her ears. It was when the baby poked Rainbow in the eye that she yelped, “Hey!” causing the mother and baby to flee the scene. Rainbow began rubbing at her sore eye and found herself being laughed at by Summer. She couldn’t help then but get caught up in laughing at herself. After the two calmed down, still laying on their bellies, Rainbow saw the same spider monkey standing right in front of her. Her eyes narrowed demandingly as she then whispered,

“Don’t you dare.” Whether the monkey understood or not was unknown, but immediately after it jumped onto her back, and started to tickle Rainbow Dash.

She laughed and Summer laughed at her more, only to find herself getting tickled by that spider monkey. The two rolled on their backs laughing hysterically, neither one willing to fight back. Eventually, the long-armed primate got bored or hungry, and left. Rolling back onto their bellies, the laughs went on incessantly, both residual from the tickling, as well as at how funny the whole moment had been.

As soon as she was able to speak then, Rainbow gave her observation asking, “So you’re good with animals, huh?”

Summer forced herself to relax to answer, “With some, yes. You learn a lot when living in the wilderness.”

‘Living in the wilderness’? This would be something to inquire on later, Rainbow thought. She began to wonder instead if Summer’s skills with animal could best Fluttershy’s, though she had said only ‘with some’.

About forty-five minutes passed since the first dance when Octavia and her musicians were ready to take a longer intermission. Everypony inside then started out through the botanical gardens, on their way to the air show. A little before that time, Rainbow Dash and Summer Breeze were looking out into Princess Luna’s night sky, talking about the stars. Rainbow had no clue how they started doing that, but one thing was for sure. She would definitely have to thank Twilight for lecturing her on astronomy then apologize for getting so bored those few years ago. The sound of many ponies passing then got her and Summer’s attention.

Summer quickly rose to her hooves and said, “Come on Rainbow, the Wonderbolts!” and she pranced away.

Rainbow suddenly felt a chill by Summer’s quick departure.

She got up swiftly and flew after shouting, “Wait for me!” Catching up to her, Rainbow lowered herself back to the ground and trotted alongside Summer, who looked rather excited. It suddenly hit her just how much luckier she was being a Wonderbolt herself and contemplated on how she can join in the show to impress Summer. No-no! Summer already knows Rainbow isn’t scheduled to fly that night, therefore any last-minute changes would be just weird.

Everypony made it out to the fields where the Wonderbolts were performing, climbing up the bleachers, and lowered folded chairs to sit. Summer was about to climb up as well, but Rainbow Dash was pulling her away.

With Summer silently asking with her eyes, Rainbow, perceiving, answered, “There’s a box reserved for other Wonderbolts not flying tonight. The views way better from there!”

Summer again said nothing, but her grin expressed her excitement more clearly than any spoken word. They went off to the seats of which Rainbow described, but when they got there, a security guard halted them. Going through this before, Rainbow pulled out her badge indicating her membership. Just as a formality then, the guard gestured with his eyes towards Summer, to which Rainbow answered, “She’s with me.”

He nodded, allowing the two to pass through. The voice of Princess Celestia was heard as Rainbow and Summer made their way, giving her opening announcements. The box they entered must have had fifty or so seats, though it seemed like only half were occupied. Almost half there looked like cadets, some of whom Summer noticed whispering among themselves,

“Look, it’s Rainbow Dash!” Hearing that name had somehow excited her more. It was as if…No, she literally was with a celebrity, taking an honorary position as guest in the Wonderbolts’ venue box!

The next hour was spent watching the remarkable aerial acrobatics. Some stunts performed were in fact formations used by the Wonderbolts in their more militaristic capacity as Equestria’s Royal Air Force. In the same way that Octavia and her orchestra played elegant music inside, her gal pal Vinyl Scratch DJed outside more modern music to compliment the Wonderbolts’ performance. Fireworks shot up as well, lighting the whole sky above Canterlot, bringing joy and wonder to all, even to those not attending the Grand Galloping Gala. The exploding lights could even be seen from Ponyville. The applause and cheers rivaled the fireworks in volume and were likewise are said to be audible to that small town. The first major flight pattern of the night was accompanied by five specialized rockets, each blowing up to display luminant symbols of Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, and one other that caught somepony’s eyes. Rainbow Dash, who was seeing this formation for the first time, had a gaping smile when she felt her shoulder being shoved. She turned to Summer Breeze who had the same look of wonder on her face.

She then exclaimed over background uproar, “That was you!” glancing down at Rainbow’s cutie mark.

Rainbow grinned bashfully, covering herself with her wings in much the same way Twilight had. Summer protested her modesty and reached out to pull Rainbow’s wings away from her face. Their attention on each other was broken suddenly by the loud explosion of several fireworks which formed a violet sunburst. The crowd erupted with the chanting,

“Princess Twilight! Princess Twilight! Princess Twilight!…” Twilight was so moved to see and hear this, she just had to cover herself with her wings, much as Rainbow had done. She more hid herself from her friends Applejack and Pinkie Pie and Princesses Celestia and Luna closest to her in the royal box than anypony else. After the Wonderbolts landed and saluted all those seated in the royal box, they took off to continue the show. The next flight pattern was a personal favorite of Princess Celestia: The Icaranian Sun Salutation. After more amazing displays of flying talent and fireworks, of which were mainly yellow and orange, the crowd erupted again with the chanting,

“Princess Sola! Princess Sola! Princess Sola!...” It wasn’t common to call Princess Celestia by the name “Sola,” but it was her name nonetheless. It was better for the rhythmic chanting anyway. The next pattern flown involved yet more acrobatic stunts, this time releasing streams of smoke. Other squadrons gathered this smoke to a great mass in the sky, in which six rockets blew the following colors: Purple, Green, Red, Red, Green, Purple. This was no doubt representing the fallen King of Shadows, Sombra. Two large squadrons crisscrossed the cloud of smoke, releasing a series of ornate explosives. One side blew up into colors of gold and pink for Princess Cadence, the other of green and purple for Spike. A rocket shot up into fast into the sky then and into a smoke cloud, exploding into a pale blue heart. This quickly dissipated the great black haze, representing Sombra’s defeat, inciting everypony to chant,

“Princess Candance! Princess Candance! Princess Candance!...” Rainbow Dash and Summer Breeze had each then begun to rest their heads on the other’s, neither thinking too much of it. They were just friends enjoying the show and each other’s company.

The final major flight pattern was about to begin, as the name of it was announced over the loudspeaker: Euryphaëssa Mōna Tributarum (“wide-shining”; “moon”; “paying tribute”). At once, every Wonderbolt swarmed all over above the field carrying sparklers that glimmered dazzling white streams. A line of thirteen pegasi then soared up above the swarming flyers, each releasing a sort of explosive. These explosives then burst one by one revealing what looked to be arching phases of the Moon. Rainbow Dash suddenly felt her hoof being clasped tightly by the excited mare next to her. Rainbow thought carefully of what it could mean.

“Summer’s probably just excited by the show. Just take it slow,” she thought.

Slow was not a fun word for Rainbow, but thinking back to the gardens, she knew she had to be as patient as possible. A final rocket then was launched into the air and silence filled everypony. It took a minute before the rocket could no longer be recognized in the night sky, until it exploded brightly! It was the largest firework anypony had ever seen. What started in a nearly blinding flash of white became concentric circles, which shot forth streams of light, segments of which continued to stem out further branches of gleam just pure white. No other color was included, just the one which glorified the Moon, the stars, and their Princess. Rainbow and Summer looked to each other with expressions of speechless astonishment.

Everypony was still silent after the fireworks nearly faded. Nopony had ever seen anything this spectacular before. All the performing Wonderbolts landed on the field and saluted the royal box again, particularly in the direction of one alicorn. Princess Luna’s jaw still hung low, as did those of Twilight, Applejack, and Pinkie Pie. It was the first display of the Euryphaëssa Mōna Tributarum ever. She turned to Princess Celestia, who didn’t look the least bit surprised, but rather knowingly. Princess Luna turned and silently pleaded her sister with her eyes for answers.

Princess Celestia, perceiving her immense curiosity, answered, “I commissioned this pattern a hundred years before your return, sister.”

The only words Princess Luna could utter then were, “For me?” Her sister smiled and nodded. The awe-inspired silence had gone on for long enough, Rainbow Dash thought, as she started chanting,

“Princess Luna! Princess Luna! Princess Luna!…” This incited Summer next to her to immediately join in, followed by everypony else in the Wonderbolts’ venue box, which eventually spread through everypony in every bleacher,

“Princess Luna! Princess Luna! Princess Luna!…” Princess Luna was overcome by all of this! She had a flight formation devoted to her already, and the cheering of her name wasn’t unfamiliar, yet it seemed her sister had taken it in her hooves to enrich both tenfold!

She turned to Princess Celestia ready to cry and taking her in a tight hug in both hoof and wing said, “I love you `Tia!”

“And I love you Luna,” her sister returned.

This display between sisters was just too magnetic to resist, drawing Twilight, Applejack, and Pinkie Pie especially, into the hug.

It had to be the best air show ever in Equestrian history, only to ever be repeatable on special nights such as the Grand Galloping Gala. With the mix of four militant style flights, four minor aerial stunts, and four patterns devoted to the Princesses, complimented with fireworks and Vinyl Scratch’s musical touch, it was over. Everypony began to leave the field and return to the main event hall, including Rainbow Dash and Summer Breeze.

As they walked alongside one other, still immensely impacted by the air show, Summer exclaimed, “That was even more amazing than the last year!”

Rainbow, in full agreement, replied, “I know, right?!”

They were both halfway from the field to the event hall when Summer expressed her further eagerness, “I can’t wait to see you fly next year!”

Rainbow paused in her tracks. “Huh?” she uttered, confused by the statement. Summer wasn’t leaving already, was she?

Not perceiving Rainbow’s thoughts, Summer asked, “You’re taking Soarin’s place next Gala, aren’t you?”

That’s what she meant, Rainbow realized quickly. “Oh yeah, definitely!”

The night had been totally in Rainbow Dash’s favor so far, but there was only one hour left. Whatever was going to happen, she had only that short span of time to think up exactly what she was going to ask Summer.

Back in the ballroom, Octavia got back up to the front of the stage saying, “Welcome back, everypony. I hope you all had a wonderful time watching the Wonderbolts. I know I did, but let’s take this final hour to mellow down. Some of us do have work in the morning.”

She was caught off guard again by the sound of snare drums and symbol returned, [ba-dum-TSH!], earning some chuckles from the crowd.

Octavia then shouted immediately after, “Vinyl! I swear by the Celes-…” stopping her swearing mouth with a hoof.

Her eyes opened widely and her face blushed rosy. Using the name of the Princess like that was often perceived as bad-mannered, especially by the upper-class; nevertheless, this moment earned the hilarity of everypony who heard, even Princess Celestia herself.

After collecting herself once again, Octavia breathed deeply, and continued, “With that, our next piece will be from…”

Rainbow Dash could hardly hear a thing, being lost in her own thoughts, as she formulated on how to proceed.

“One dance was probably enough,” she thought, “should I ask her now?” she pondered. “No, because what would I do after that? Ask her as she’s leaving,” Rainbow finally decided.

As the music started playing, she found a colt approaching her and Summer. Rainbow’s eyes widened, as she noticed a look of fascination in the pony drawing near. He seemed to be interested in Summer, like he was about to ask for a dance, but what was Rainbow Dash to do? She started feeling possessive, but over somepony whose heart, she realized, she didn’t capture yet. Summer would probably decline, but Rainbow still felt the coming of an adversary. She then noticed a faint flash in the bottom of her sight. The colt had then walked into the source of the barely noticeable flash, slipped on what had apparently been a wet spot on the floor. Rainbow and Summer both saw the him getting back up, looking embarrassed, and rushed off. They looked at each other, somewhat confused, but Rainbow had some idea of who did that.

Meanwhile, across the ballroom, Discord had laughed hard at his own handiwork. Fluttershy, however, didn’t take much humor in that colt falling to the floor.

She exclaimed softly, “Discord!”

“What?” he asked, “you were the one who pointed him out in alarm.”

Fluttershy’s look of disapproval didn’t waver.

“That doesn’t mean I wanted you to hurt him!” she explained.

Discord waved his eagle claw and blew a raspberry at her reproach.

He then said, “It’s not like I made him tumble down a flight of stairs, which you know, I could have done for my own amusement. That was just for our friend Rainbow Crush…and me!”

He continued laughing to himself. Fluttershy just rolled her eyes, deciding to tolerate yet another one of Discord’s antics. She was the one who decided to let him in on Rainbow’s crush on Summer Breeze during the air show.

Remembering that then, Fluttershy smiled softly, shrugging her annoyance, and said, “Let’s just go find the girls now.”

“Fine,” Discord conceded, “but I’m still keeping an eye on those two,” and his left eye slithered out like a snail’s, turning back to watch over Rainbow and Summer.

As the night went on, fewer and fewer couples danced, while others simply listened, applauding after each short piece of music.

Rarity eyes had fallen, as she looked back up, asking, “Must you leave now Snazzy?”

It was only about another forty-five minutes before the Grand Galloping Gala would come to a close, but Rarity had not prepared for herself for Mister Tux’s departure.

Seeing the young unicorn so downcast, Snazzy offered a sympathetic smile, saying, “I am sorry, my dear Rarity, but as Miss Melody said, ‘Some of us do have work in the morning’, and I must be at my best at the meeting tomorrow.”

That was a good point, she realized, being business-savvy herself.

Rarity smiled shyly and said, “I understand. I guess I’ll rejoin my friends now. You have a safe trip home.”

Before she had the chance to turn away, however, Snazzy Tux had one more thing to say. She recognized this by the way he lowered his head towards her.

He then asked, “Would you be in favor, though, to join me for an afternoon tea at Old Elm’s this Thursday?”

Rarity at once beamed at the invitation.

“That sounds simply divine,” she said with a grin.

Snazzy then bowed his head saying, “Good night then, Rarity.”

“Good night, Snazzy,” Rarity returned, hiding in as much excitement as she could.

As Snazzy then walked away then, Rarity’s face turned blank, as she wondered if he was the one playing a mind trick like she tried before! She shook her head at the thought in amusement, knowing well he didn’t have to. After feeling Snazzy had walked far enough away, Rarity then turned and looked for her friends. That might have been contrary to her scheme, but she’s certainly not going to spend the rest of the Gala alone!

Back on the royal platform, Princesses Celestia, Luna, and Twilight, as well as Applejack, all shot glares of judgement towards Discord. Fluttershy had just finished talking about what happened with the colt who slipped and hardly anypony was amused. Pinkie Pie was an exception, though she did at least have for once to try and contain herself.

“What?!” Discord exclaimed, “Don’t tell me you believe I was in the wrong as well. If anything, I complimented the Rainbow’s apparent nimbility using that clumsy oaf.”

Pinkie could no longer hold it in, as she laughed hysterically. The sisters watched the laughing pink mare, uncertain whether they wanted to judge her, on account of her nature. Twilight and Applejack, however, made no hesitation to shoot her looks of disapproval.

Finally, able to speak through her laughs, Pinkie said, “You’re right Dizzy, Summer will be all over Rainbow now!” and she continued in her giggles.

Fluttershy still hadn’t approved of Discord’s conduct, but she couldn’t help but smile at Pinkie’s state. A call then grabbed everypony’s attention.

“Yoo-hoo! Girls…” Rarity called from below, then adding, “and your highnesses.”

Twilight couldn’t tell if she was included in the former or the latter half of that greeting, but smiled and gestured her to come on up and join them all.

When Rarity made it up and took her reserved cushion, Applejack asked, “How’d it go with Snazzy?”

Rarity raised her chin proudly and answered, “Afternoon tea at Old Elm’s this Thursday.”

Applejack rolled her eyes and smiled.

“So what’s the topic of discussion now?” Rarity asked.

Twilight crossed her hooves and said irritably, “Discord made somepony he thought was interested in Summer slip and embarrass himself!”

Rarity smiled, leaned forward to face Discord a few seats away, and said, “Good show, Discord!”

Discord then gave Fluttershy next to him a smug expression.

“See,” he spoke smoothly, “not everypony thought I was being bad.”

At this, Fluttershy then slapped both hooves to her face in a heavy sigh. Just something about being around Discord made it easier for her to express her annoyance.

Ponies applauded when Octavia and her orchestra finished their final musical number of the night. The cellist then got back to the front to make her final announcements.

She waited for the room to quiet down and said, “Thank you all for attending the Grand Galloping Gala tonight. Long live our Princesses.”

Everypony, safe for the Princesses themselves repeated back, “Long live our Princesses!”

Octavia continued, “Please do give another round of applause for these fine, talented ponies.”

She turned around to face her students, clapped her hooves together, inciting everypony else to appreciatively stomp the floor in applauds.

Turning back, Octavia waited for the thunderous stomps to cease, and said, “I would like to thank Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, and Princess Twilight for allowing me to share with them these outstanding musicians. May they spread throughout Equestria the beauty you’ve all heard this night!”

Another round of applause sounded in concurrence to her proclamation. As Octavia continued her closing speech, part of which also included requested donation to a number of charitable organizations, the three Princesses and Twilight’s friends searched the sea of ponies for Rainbow Dash and Summer Breeze. Discord, having never stopped his snail-like left eye from wandering, pointed them all then to the pair.

Rainbow and Summer had been sitting together near the alicorn statue listening to Octavia’s speech. Summer then got up and turned to Rainbow, who rose as well. Rainbow gave Summer her full attention, seeing she got up first.

With a big smile, Summer then said, “Well it’s been fun Rainbow. I’m really glad to have spent this night with you.”

Rainbow’s smile never fell, but inside she was terrified. Summer was just about to announce her departure. It was now or never!

Rainbow gulped as Summer continued, “I should really head home now. Long run and all,” closing with a grin.

“Long run?” Rainbow thought, “That doesn’t sound right. Summer’s run longer than that. Wait…” Another thought came, but this time audibly.

She asked, “You’re running back during night?”

Summer’s nodding radiated high enthusiasm.

She then answered, “Yeah! I’ve learned to see well in the dark, but that aside, Luna’s Moon is shining bright tonight, isn’t it?”

Rainbow’s slightly confused face turned to a smile as she said, “Oh yeah, it is, huh?”

A few seconds of silence passed between the two.

It was then broken when Summer said, “Well, good…” cut off so hastily by Rainbow saying,

“Wait! I wanted to ask you something.”

Summer’s head jolted back at the interruption, and then leaned forward as she asked, “Yes Rainbow?”

Rainbow’s eyes swung left and right, as though seeking out the words she wanted to say, but only let out a quick, nervous hum. Summer tilted her head a bit and gave a friendly smile. Rainbow looked back to Summer, to Summer’s face. Her smile, her rising dimples, her yellow, glistening mane, her beautiful blue eyes…

Rainbow couldn’t waste another minute as she blurted out, “You wanna grab lunch at the Hay Burger this Wednesday?”

She put up a fight against a frown of embarrassment, but the blush across her face was victorious.

Summer’s face went blank, as she absorbed what she just heard. She took a moment to analyze the words, the tone, the speed, even the facial expression thereafter. She was pretty sure of what was being asked of her. Wishing not to make a fool of herself, however, she needed to confirm.

After seeing Rainbow’s blush fade a little, Summer asked quietly, “Are you asking me out?”

Rainbow’s smile ultimately won against the embarrassed frown as she simply nodded. Summer looked away for a moment, causing Rainbow smile to drop a little, but it was still there. After Summer considered the question, she finally turned her smiling face on that slightly-shorter-than-her pegasus, and said, “I would love that!”

Rainbow couldn’t believe she just heard that answer, as all embarrassment fled away, and she shown a wide grin.

She almost wanted to ask ‘Really?’, but switched to a more establishing question, “How does one O’clock sound?”

Summer nodded and said, “Meet you then!” Rainbow stood still as Summer began to walk past her from the right side. Suddenly, she felt something pressing against the side of her face. She only realized what it was after the intaking pressure released her cheek with soft smacking sound. Rainbow quickly turned her head to see Summer’s warmly smiling face.

Summer then said, “As I was saying,” pausing to wink at Rainbow, “Good night,” and trotted away for the exit with a few others leaving.

Rainbow Dash fell on her flank, hind legs too weak to stand. She took a hoof to her chest, realizing it must have been beating faster than necessary for flight. The world around her had become far removed from her. Even the applause following Octavia’s closing speech seemed quiet as a light wind. Rainbow couldn’t tell how much time had passed, not that time was even something existent to her then. As faint as every sound around was though, one sound approaching drew her senses back.

“You did it Rainbow!” was heard coming from Twilight’s voice.

Rainbow never lost vision, but those words suddenly made vision something relevant once again, and the world came into focus to her. She saw her five friends coming a little way off from the right to meet in from of her.

Rainbow took one step forward saying, “She said…”

Her words were cut off by Pinkie Pie bouncing in place, “We know! We saw the whole thing Dashie!”

Rainbow bashfully looked away with a big smile.

Applejack chuckled and said, “You alright there, sugar cube?”

Rainbow faced her friends again, and getting up to dance in place on her tip hooves, whinnied like a school filly!

Rarity burst in asking, “But what exactly did she say?!”

Collecting herself quickly, Rainbow quoted, “‘I would love that!’”

Rarity and Fluttershy joined heads and shared a gentle, “Awww!”

Fluttershy giggled at Rainbow’s joyfully flushed face and asked, “When’s the date,” giggling after the word ‘date’ alone.

Rainbow answered, “One O’clock this Wednesday at the Hay Burger!”

Rarity raised an eyebrow while Rainbow wasn’t looking. The Hay Burger? Rarity might have preferred something classier like a fine, candlelit dinner, but that was just her.

Above everypony flashed a light where appeared then Discord wriggling in mid-air laughing hard.

As the girls looked up, puzzled by his amusement, he exclaimed, “You should have seen the look on your face, priceless!”

Discord then reached his eagle claw into his ear and pulled out a scroll. He then unrolled it in front of the six mares, causing five of them to laugh. Discord had captured an animated shot of Rainbow’s shocked expression as she was being kissed by Summer. Rainbow just smiled, surrendering to how goofy she looked at that moment.

“Oh!” continued Discord, “And just look at Summer’s face right now.”

He rolled the scroll back up and flashed it open again, presenting a live moving picture of Summer Breeze as she stepped outside. She was seen grinning so widely, even hopping up a little on her hind legs as she motioned her fore hooves like she was swimming. Soon as Summer galloped away from the peering view on the scroll, Twilight, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie all inclined their heads towards Rainbow, and all together gave her a louder, “Awww!” Rainbow giggled more, covering her face with one wing.

Twilight then asked, “Ready girls?”

The other four answered, “Ready!” Rainbow uncovered her face expressing confusion, when she found herself surrounded by her friends skipping in a very Pinkie-like manner, as they all sung teasingly, “♪ Rainbow Crush! Rainbow Crush! Rainbow Crush! ♪” The scene was just too irresistible, urging Discord himself to float around the six. His nose followed the tip of his snake-like tail, chanting in kind, “♪ Rainbow Crush! Rainbow Crush! Rainbow Crush! ♪” Rainbow might not have taken well to teasing a while back, but now, she was just too happy and proud to be bothered. After all, she was officially going out on a date with Summer Breeze.

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.

Chapter Four – This Time with More Feeling

It was three o’clock in the afternoon when the train finally came to a stop. Pinkie Pie was about to speak when a knock on the car door was heard. The door opened, and the same train attendant from before, Trusty, walked in, bowing to Princess Twilight.

“Princess and company, I’ve come to let you all know that we’ve just arrived at Vanhoover and will be leaving shortly.”

“Well I’ll be, Princess,” Applejack said, wishing to stay formal in front of the attendant. “You wasn’t kidding about that Operation Lightspeed now, were you?”

Twilight nodded a rising head at Applejack, as though to say ‘Told you so’. The fact that Applejack made that observation told her that at least somepony was listening to her. And Applejack of all ponies, she thought. Was it bad to think that way? She didn’t dwell on the idea too long. Trusty resumed his duties to see if there was anything anypony needed. After the six declined, he reminded them of the service bell above and made his departure.

Immediately after the door closed, Pinkie Pie burst out:

“Next up we have Fluttershy!”

All eyes locked on her, which was a bit of pressure, but she was still excited to pose her question. She had enjoyed seeing how Rainbow was when she talked about her special secret somepony. They were all on their way to the Grand Galloping Gala, so the question she had in mind might have been silly to ask.

Rainbow. Would she even do such a thing? Yet this train ride had been filled with plenty of surprises already, so what’s the harm in asking? Fluttershy began.

“Well, Rainbow, my question is— and you don’t have to answer if you don’t want to— but I was just wondering…”

In seeing how she struggled, Rarity interrupted. “Well, come out with it, darling!”

That might have been a little forceful, but Fluttershy smiled through it.

“I was just wondering…” Her friends leaned in slightly. “Are you going to dance with her?”

The rest of Rainbow’s friends took in the idea for a moment. Rainbow Dash dancing with Summer Breeze. This led them to cast teasing smirks at Rainbow. Like her friends, Rainbow took a moment absorbing the question.

She didn’t really know.

“Well— sure— maybe— … I don’t know. I guess if it happens, it happens,” Rainbow answered, mirroring Fluttershy’s ways.

Her answer rang hollow to the others, but she didn’t say no. Applejack elbowed her side.

“You seem to have a mighty fancy for her, RD. You should go dancing.”

“She’s right, Rainbow,” Twilight agreed. “I mean, this the Grand Galloping Gala. If there’s any place to have a first dance with her, it’s there.”

Rainbow chewed on that and nodded. “I guess you’ve got a point.”

“Woo hoo!” Pinkie Pie exclaimed. “Time to get your get groove on, Dashie! Cut the rug, jump the jive!”

Pinkie began dancing ecstatically in her seat. The only thing more unsettling than her moves was the lack of music to accompany her seemingly possessed self. Rainbow was beginning to feel the vibe and joined into Pinkie’s world, dancing intensely to whatever jam was playing in her head.

While the others were quite enthused by the scene, Rarity looked on in horror. Being unable to withstand a moment longer, she shouted:

“UNACCEPTABLE!”

The dancing duo froze, and surprised eyes shot up to Rarity, who calmed herself with a sigh. “I’d like to take my turn now!”

Pinkie was put off by having her dance brought to a screeching halt, but she and Rainbow went back to their seats, allowing Rarity to go on.

“Let me start out by saying that I fully agree with Twilight and Applejack. If you like this Summer so much, you absolutely should be dancing with her. There’s just one important matter to establish.”

Rainbow couldn’t figure out whatever issue Rarity had, but a sense of dread was slowly overtaking her. Cocking an eyebrow Rarity asked:

“Do you actually know how to dance?”

This earned a moment of silence. Rainbow Dash scratched her head at the question, unsure what to make of it.

“Uh, yeah, Rare. I dance, like, all the time. You’ve seen me cut sick moves at Pinkie Pie’s parties all the time, and Pinkie and I just now were—”

“Oh no! No-No-No!” Rarity halted Rainbow, then raised a hoof and called out, “Permission to rephrase the question?”

“Granted!” Pinkie said, being curious herself as to what Rarity meant.

“Thank you, dear,” Rarity said rather flatly, then turned back to a confused Rainbow and stared her down with half shut glare. “Now then: Do you know how to dance?” She put emphasis on the last word.

It wasn’t much of rephrasing, Dash thought. She merely dropped a word and spoke with a different, more careful inflection and…ohhhh.

Rainbows pupils shrunk, all of a sudden comprehending what Rarity meant by dance. Covering her eyes in a slap, she moaned, “Oh no! I didn’t even think of that!” She began to rock nervously in her seat, still covering her ashamed eyes, making Fluttershy feel both worried and guilty for being the one who first brought up dancing.

Now it had come to this. Longing to help, but not knowing how, Fluttershy asked:

“Um, Rarity, shouldn’t we do something?”

Rarity pondered for a moment, taking a hoof to her chin. Maybe Twilight could use her magic to give magical steps to Rainbow. No, Twilight would need direct control, and even if such a spell could run on auto-pilot, Dash would have no control, no intuition. There had to be some other way.

A smile slowly spread across Rarity’s face. She had an idea! She walked over to the distressed Rainbow, taking a forehoof on the seat to raise herself to eye-level, and with the other she unshielded Rainbow’s eyes. She still looked panicked, but saw on Rarity some very caring eyes.

“Never you fret, love. I – am going – to help you – through this,” Rarity said.

“How, Rare, how? The Gala’s got to be like two hours away, and I don’t know how to dance!”

Before Dash could blink, Rarity thrust her face so close that their noses were practically touching. Their eyes were locked onto each other’s.

“Because I am going to teach you, Dashie!”

Taking only a second to realize what she just said, Rainbow lightly pushed the excited unicorn down.

“You’ll— teach me— how to dance— in two hours— on a moving train?”

Rarity, unmoved by Rainbow’s doubt, nodded.

“I am your good friend, and you are my good friend, and with my help, you WILL dance sublimely tonight!”

Rainbow was unconvinced. “…in two hours, on a moving train?”

“I bet you a hundred bits I can teach you within the hour.” She said, with intense eyes. Then, her expression brightened. “And as for the moving train... Twi-light! What was that you said about gyroscopes?”

Twilight perked up hearing that.

“Ah! Well, as I was explaining, it all starts with the magically propelled disc or rotor, which, when spinning at high speeds on an axis, allows the axis to remain a constant 90° exact to the top of each train car. Any sort of tilt occurring will shift the inner and outer gimbal frames, but the axis’ position will remain constant at all times. When either of the gimbals are disturbed, messages will be relayed to both the conductor as well as a number of other nifty devices stationed beneath the—”

“Skip to good bit,” Rarity tried to hasten Twilight.

Twilight’s head fell forward to shoulder level, as she grunted in annoyance.

“They keep the train stable.”

Rainbow Dash looked down and considered all the factors. Rarity seemed more than willing to teach her. She was experienced in various arts in high society, dancing being amongst them. She was her friend, and friends would always lend a hoof like this when the stakes were high as they were. If Rarity failed, Rainbow’s chance with Summer could be ruined, yet there she was being the last hope available. She looked back up into Rarity’s eyes which seemed to glimmer out the words ‘Everything will be fine, I promise.’

“Okay,” she said, at last. “Teach me.”

Rarity frolicked in place on her tip hooves with a voice most gleeful.

“Splendid!”

“Aww! What about the Q&A?!” Pinkie voiced the complaint.. Rarity rebuked fiercely.

“This is much more important, Pinkie! This is dancing we’re talking about. She must learn to woo this mare!”

Rainbow’s first instinct was to get up from her seat, move to the emptier side of the train car, and stand firm, like a soldier. She mentally prepared herself for Rarity’s instructions, which began eventually.

“Now, the first lesson here, love, is this: RELAX!”

Rainbow flinched and jumped back at the sudden bark, but without a second thought, she took a looser stand, closed her eyes, and sighed, shaking off whatever nerves she found inhibiting herself.

“Are you ready?” a soft voice asked. Rainbow opened her eyes and saw Rarity face again, only this time so calm, so relaxed, and maybe even a little suggestive. “Next lesson is in ‘confidence’. Strut proud, as you are indeed an exceptional mare.”

Rainbow’s classically boastful nature had not yet reemerged from her softened crushy self, so her eyes wandered away, shyly.

“Look at me, Rainbow!” Rarity called back, as Rainbow looked back and listened on. “You are a Wonderbolt, but not only that. You are the most loyal, heroic, and inspirational pegasus ever to come out of Cloudsdale, if not in all of Equestria!”

Rainbow brought forth a smile to this, but Rarity was not convinced.

“You showed up Lightning Dust at the Academy for the recklessness brute she was, and became lead pony, because you deserved it. Wind Rider feared you enough to frame you with getting rid of Spitfire from Princess Celestia's royal garden opening. You brought to life the legendary Sonic Rainboom!”

Rainbow Dash started to remember who she was again, but Rarity had two more points to make. “The same Rainboom which brought us all together in the first place. Think about it! Nightmare Moon, Discord, Tirek! No matter how hard you try to think your way out of the spotlight, we are useless without you!”

This did it for her. Rainbow wasn’t this shy little pegasus who hadn’t a chance in the world to capture somepony’s interest, but was in fact the Awesome Rainbow Danger Dash!

“You’re right! I can do this! I’m—” She was suddenly interrupted by a headbutt to her noggin.

“Let’s not get too brash now,” Rarity said. Rainbow snickered back.

“Right.”

With Rainbow both relaxed and confident, Rarity proceeded with the lessons.

“Now, let’s begin! Listen very carefully, as I am telling you how to lead, and you lead me as I say. Understood?”

With a confirming nod from Rainbow, Rarity continued. “Good. So, with that, heads together…”

They both approached each other slowly, joining their foreheads, as Rarity’s horn slid over the top of Rainbow’s head.

“Now you slowly rock back and forth.” Rainbow did.

“That’s right,” Rarity encouraged, “back and forth, back and forth— bend that forehoof,” Rarity demanded, which Rainbow also did, rising her left hoof to chest-level.

A sudden snickering was heard in the background, causing her to pause. It was her friends: they were laughing. Was it at her or for her? She tried to focus, but failed. Rarity said nothing against the rude teasing, but focused on Rainbow Dash.

“Ignore them, love,” she whispered softly, “it’s just us now. Everything will be fine, I promise. Back and forth,” Rarity’s tone lowered, as though rocking a foal to sleep. “You are leading me, back and forth.”

Rainbow felt in control, enjoying the ease with which this came.

“You push me forward and draw me back in, back and forth…”

This went on for a few minutes more.

Rarity began humming in a soft tone. “Hm hmm hm hm hmmm, hmhm hm hm hm hmm hmmmm…” (From the Daughter of Discord). Rainbow Dash couldn’t help but notice.

“Uh, Rarity, you’re humming.”

“Yes, I am,” she whispered. “Just roll with it.”

Dash rolled her eyes and continued swaying back and forth.

“Now, in keeping the motion, slide your left cheek against mine,” Rarity instructed. That brought out a murmur of confusion from Rainbow, but Rarity was silent. With no response, she did as she was told, sliding the side of her face against Rarity’s, and so the space between them lessened. Their faces kept sliding until both their left ears touched, causing them to flutter a bit.

Rarity’s closed eyes tightened at this. “You’ll have to be careful not to let that happen!” She explained, in a harsh tone. Rainbow didn’t respond, and only listened on. They kept up the same swaying as warm cheeks made contact.

“Now, with the same hoof you raised, you will wrap it around my neck, beckoning me to do the same.”

Dash blushed at the thought of that, for some reason, which Rarity felt through her cheek.

“Think of it as hugging a friend,” she said, attempting to make it seem less intimate. Dash pushed through the embarrassment and complied, taking her left hoof and drawing Rarity in.

“Now you’ve done it,” Rarity continued, softly. “You’re holding me and I have nowhere to go.” There was a hint of sarcasm in her voice. “Now I guess I have no choice, do I?”

Rainbow’s face burnt up as she felt her friend’s hoof returning the… ‘hug’. She tried to convince herself of that notion. They rocked together constantly. Rainbow kept herself balanced on Rarity, until she reprimanded her.

“No, don’t you lean on me now, you hear? I’m depending on you for leading this dance.”

Rainbow readjusted herself, taking Rarity’s weight with her more. She’s the one leading, that’s what she should be doing. The rocking continued a few minutes more, and the continuous giggles she felt directed towards her by her friends were getting to her.

“Rarity, how long do we keep this up?” she asked.

“Until you feel ready to move on. It all depends on the music, dear. You will know.”

“But there is no music.”

“I’ve been humming it the whole time, haven’t I?” Rarity whispered back.

“Oh. Then... I’m ready now, I guess.”

Rarity felt unconvinced, but disregarded her suspicions. “Then tighten your hold on me, and wrap your other hoof around me, beneath my left foreleg, and begin stepping forward.”

With no words to express how embarrassing this was getting, Rainbow did her best, suddenly finding herself and Rarity standing on their hind legs.

“Necks uncrossed,” Rarity instructed.“And bring that left hoof from the back of my neck to my side like this.”

Rainbow gulped at the second part, but did just so, blushing harder as Rarity’s right forehoof joined her left behind Rainbow’s neck.

“Next time,” Rarity pointed out, “we will uncross and take the hind stand in one swift motion.”

This was going to be long ride.

Rainbow continued receiving instructions, despite Rarity resigning control of the dance. Rarity spoke, Rainbow listened, and with each step, they swayed and circled. Rarity followed the steps thereof. The soft humming carried on when no words were said, “hmhmhm hmhm hm hmm, hm hmhm hmhm hm hmm, hm hm hmhm hm hmhmm, hm hmhm hm hm hm hmhm hmmm…”

Rainbow was beginning to realize just how well the music Rarity made was helping. Whatever it was, it was nice, and the music led her to lead Rarity, as though each note hinted at much more than mere words could. Occasional stumbles were made, wings flapped slightly as Rainbow tried to regain balance. On-looking friends shared giggles amongst them, and teasing gestures too. Every time Rainbow seem to falter, then freak out as result, Rarity either hushed to calm her down, or more aggressively puffed air on her face to bring her focus back.

Eventually, no more words were said, and they danced for what might have been five minutes. Rainbow was getting better with each step, keeping the directions in mind, and harmonizing them to the Rarity’s hums, which began to sound more like violins. When was the last time she heard a violin? Maybe at Cranky and Matilda’s wedding? Cadence and Shining Armor?

She was losing her concentration, and began tripping on her own hooves, flying up before she could fall. Rarity, however, tilted back and panicked.

“Twilight! My dress!”

She found herself glowing in a light raspberry aura, as Twilight magically repositioned her back on all fours, thus saving her dress from…whatever.

Rarity inspected herself, more particularly her dress, and after seeing how no damage was done, she smiled and turned to Rainbow. When she did, however, concern took her over as she heard a scared little mare whispering:

“That…was terrible!”

Rarity, on the other hoof, rolled her eyes in amusement, sighing through her nose as she shook her head downward. She then approached the stunned pegasus and raised Rainbow’s chin with her hoof to see her face to face.

“We’re just warming up, now.” Warming up was right, as Rainbow’s eyes fell away with a blush. “You’re doing very well. Just fight against that natural urge to flap, okay?”

“Seriously?” Rainbow asked, feeling hopeless.

“This is only the warm up, trust me,” Rarity reassured her.

Rainbow looked towards her friends to see what they thought. Before, they had been laughing, snickering at her, either by her merely attempting slow dancing, or something to do with Rarity, or maybe even at her own failings. That was before, though, and her friends now expressed sympathy, apology, even encouragement.

Turning back to Rarity, whose optimistic face had not yet faded, Rainbow spoke up.

“Alright, give me all you’ve got.”

“You give me all you’ve got!” Rarity answered, drawing forward again. “Now, from the top!”

The two joined heads once more, rocking back and forth. Rainbow Dash didn’t need to be cued as she smoothly slid the left side of her face against Rarity’s. Her hoof on the same side raised a bit, as she remembered the instructions. She knew the next step, but kept with the sway a bit too long.

“Take her…” Rarity urged. Rainbow then implemented the one hoofed hug (as she thought of it), drawing Rarity in closer, crossing their necks again. They both rested their heads on each other, and continued rocking back and forth on each of their three remaining hooves.

‘We will uncross and take the hind stand in one swift motion.’ Rainbow remembered it, now aware that Rarity was waiting for just that. Using Rarity for balance, she inched forward, taking her right hoof under Rarity’s left foreleg, and rushed both of their bodies upward. Rainbow brought her head back during the upward trajectory, looking at Rarity with a waiting expression as she replaced her left hoof down, joining her right around Rarity’s side.

Rarity gave a rather shocked expression, quickly turned happy.

“Splendid! Now, let’s continue.”

Dash let out a heavy sigh and followed; or rather, lead on.

Rarity’s musical tone vibrated through her sealed lips as she was lead gently by Rainbow in a clockwise motion. They looked into each other’s eyes, communicating the trust they had for each other. “Now,” Rarity proceeded, “extend your left hoof halfway out the side. That will tell Summer to do likewise with her right.”

As she said so, Rainbow was the first to extend out her hoof.

“You will be in a larger space tonight, but given what we are here, just lead me in circles.”

“You mean, like we’re doing now?” Rainbow asked, confused.

Rarity rolled her eyes. “No! Use our current spin and roll us in a larger circle.”

Rainbow thought about that for a moment. “Like a circle rolling in a larger circle... got it!”

She began to take such steps, feeling little resistance from Rarity, which eased in submission to Rainbow’s motions. Rarity leaned closer and rested her head against Rainbow’s neck, but this time, Rainbow didn’t blush to it. She was actually enjoying it. A certain, familiar sense of control filled her mind. She hadn’t felt like that in quite a while.

Still well over an hour and a half until they got to Canterlot. The dance student and teacher continued with their graceful circles in the car, which, as Twilight had reassured earlier, remained perfectly balanced out. This did not keep Rainbow Dash from stumbling a bit as she familiarized herself with gravity more than she had ever done in the past.

Ground life was not an alien thing to the pegasus: far from it. She might have taken to it as well as any unicorn and earth pony. But this dancing was certainly a different experience. She was improving quickly, however, as Rarity hoped. Rainbow harmonized herself to the musical hums Rarity produced.

Finally, Rarity felt it was time. Raising her head slightly from the neck she had rested on, she spoke up.

“Come now, twirl me!”

“Twirl you?” Rainbow asked. “How many more of these are there?”

Rarity ignored the latter question. “Raise my right hoof over my head. Then, with your right hoof, motion me to spin.”

“Am I still gonna have to go in circles?”

“Yes, you will,” Rarity confirmed. “You will slowly circle around your mare as she twirls.” She then let out a sweet sigh. “... For she’s the center of your revolving world.”

That idea made Rainbow inhale and exhale deeply, then stopped her breathing. She hesitated to do this next motion.

“Well?” Rarity insisted.

Rainbow’s winced, and she quickly raised her hoof. Then, as her other hoof turned her friend around, Rarity tapped the floor with her left hind hoof, and spun on her own. In an instant, praying she didn’t mess this up, Rainbow began to walk on her hind legs around Rarity. It was very awkward to be walking like this. So, against every wish to the contrary, Rainbow unfolded her wings behind her to keep her balance up.

Having thus completed the circuit, as if by instinct, Rainbow drew Rarity back to her, and held her close as before, with joint hooves reaching out. Rainbow stared directly at Rarity’s face, scanning for whatever judgment could be found. Her face bore a sly smile lit by two half shut eyes, almost seductively. Maybe this was good; or too good? Either way, Rainbow seemed to have pulled it off.

“You dance wonderfully.”

As short of a sentence as it was, Twilight, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and especially Fluttershy were quick to agree. Fluttershy could not withhold her opinion.

“Oh, Rainbow, that was so beautiful! And the way you displayed your wings—”

“You used your wings?” Rarity asked, seemingly concerned. Rainbow gulped.

“Um…kinda?”

Rarity let out a rough sigh.

“I thought I felt something in your shoulder blades. But, if it had Fluttershy’s approval, and it helps you, then I suppose there is no harm.” Her smile reformed, and she hugged Rainbow, noses again almost touching. “Let’s move on, darling.”

Rainbow’s head inched away, and she nodded with a nervous smile. Rarity jilted her gaze to the right, motioning Rainbow to resume their circles within circles, holding her close. They kept going for about a minute.

“Now, we’re going to do the same move as before, with one small difference,” Rarity explained.

“Oh?”

“You will be sending me on another twirl. On my fourth rotation, take me down from behind.”

Rainbow somehow did not feel comfortable with the way she phrased that, but let out a half-hearted “If you say so.”

“No!” Rarity hissed in her ear. “What I say doesn’t matter, you’re the one leading!”

Rainbow tried to make sense of this glaring contradiction, but failed, so she passed it off. About halfway through the major circuit, in which they both rotated together, she initiated the twirl as before, counting down Rarity’s cycles. 4, 3, 2, GO! Rainbow caught the spinning unicorn with precision, as Rarity’s back landed on Rainbow’s chest. She then proceeded to lower their joined hooves down to shoulder level, winning Rarity’s praise.

“I didn’t even have to tell you, now did I love?” Dash let out a proud humph through her nostrils, feeling plenty surer of herself now.

Rarity proceeded to the next step saying, “You’ve got the position down marvelously, so with that,” closing her eyes softly, “begin to slowly rock your hips…” Rainbow Dash did so, only as exact as Rarity said.

She began to move her hips a certain direction, causing Rarity’s restfully shut eyes to burst open as she exclaimed, “Sideways, Dashie! SIDEWAYS!!!” Rainbow halted instantaneously at the first word she let out, paused at back, not forth, for anypony curious. As subtle as the motion was, most of their friends could not help but gawk at what just happened. Twilight was frozen. Applejack covered her eyes, shaking her head. Fluttershy blushed feverishly, as she covered her mouth with both hooves. Her eyes may have been the widest in the car, if not Rainbow’s.

Pinkie Pie, however, seemed to be the only one clueless, made clear by her saying, “What is everypony staring at? I thought it looked fun!” That managed to grab the same reaction from the three as towards Rainbow. “What?!”

Rarity’s face grew hot at what just happened and in losing her temper she shrieked, “Ugh! That was just the most ap-…!” shutting her mouth before she finished that last word. The rest of that word inflated her red cheeks which, out of the rest of the five, contrasted most against her coat. She couldn’t let herself finish that sentence! It was just an accident after all, though Rainbow is into mares. The thought was immediately cast out with a shake of her head. Rarity then swallowed the rest of that word (-palling) down as though it were vomit.

Breathing heavily now through her nostrils, she thought, ‘Just an accident, just an accident, just an accident…’ She then felt a curious chill from behind. It was Rainbow Dash. She took a right hoof to the face of the frozen in place pegasus behind her. Frozen in place was right, as Rainbow was ice cold. Even the one drop of sweat trickling down felt icy. She knew she had to alleviate her stunned friend quickly or she might be scarred forever by this incident.

With a hoof still on Dash’s frigid cheek, she began stroking her saying, “It’s okay…quite alright……Now we know what not to do, hmm?”

The first signs of life were coming back, as Rainbow nodded her head frantically with tightly shut eyes. This teaching might have been more difficult for Rarity than she had assumed.

“Why don’t we take a break,” Rarity suggested, answered by Rainbow with the same frantic nod.

Rainbow was seated at the table with her friends, most of whom switched from a state of shock to concern for the mortified pegasus. Pinkie Pie again, however, remained lost.

“I still don’t see what the fuss was about. I thought you were GREAT Dashie!” Rainbow’s face reddened at the use of that name ‘Dashie’, as those haunting words of Rarity returned to her mind, “Sideways, Dashie! SIDEWAYS!!!”

Twilight had to step in, “I think what Pinkie means is…you were doing amazing, up until…that point.” She couldn’t help but look away.

Applejack was the next to speak, “Hey now, I can speak from personal experience, sugar cube. Lightning don’t ever strike in the same place twice. I’m sure you out of all of us would know that.”

Fluttershy was still near speechless, simply agreed, “She’s right Rainbow, I’m sure it won’t happen again.” Rarity said nothing, but only rang the service bell from above using her magic.

A minute later, as Rainbow Dash’s friends continued consoling her, Trusty reappeared and said, “I see you all remembered the service bell! Now how can I…” pausing to see a rather melancholy scene.

Rarity then alerted the train attendant, “Chamomile tea, 155°, with a lemon, STAT!”

He didn’t know what was going on, but rushed away fetching the tea to Rarity’s specifications. After the door was shut, Rarity stewed in thought, thinking of what to do next. An idea came to her then, but there was only a very slim chance it would work. One in a million, she thought. She cast about further for back up ideas. Three minutes passed as Rainbow shivered in her now arctic blood when Trusty reentered the car. Before he himself could enter, Rarity’s blue aura carried the cup of tea from the cart to Rainbow.

She whispered softly to Rainbow, “Drink dear, it will warm your bones,” as she squeezed the lemon juice in with her magic.

Trusty was finally in the car when he asked, “Anything more I can provide?”

“Yes actually,” Rarity answered with a more positive vibe than earlier, “would you, by any stretch of the imagination, know the Northern Waltz [Change name later]?”

Trusty was mildly shocked by the question, but not wishing to be impolite, said, “The Northern Waltz? Well, it’s been a while since I danced it with my other half, but I’m pretty sure…”

“PERFECT!” Rarity exclaimed, ‘pretty sure’ being all she needed to hear.

She could use Trusty for what she had in mind, thank Celestia, but now she needed somepony else. Not her this time, oh no! Rarity had in mind a much better subject. She then came to Twilight and whispered the plan in her ear.

“Really? You’re sure about this Rare?” Twilight asked, and then Rarity nodded desperately. Trusty became curious as Rarity whispered to the Princess something, and readied himself for anything Twilight was going to say.

Twilight was skeptical of Rarity’s plan, but she finally asked, “Trusty, would you be as kind as to stick around for a dance?”

A dance? With the Princess? He didn’t quite know how to respond. This was a request, if not a decree, from royalty. Still though, how can he be worthy of taking the hoof of such regality? And what about his other half? Well it’s just dancing. Plus she doesn’t have to know.

Twilight then clarified, “It’s not me,” waving the off the thought, “if that’s what you were thinking. You see, one of my friends here really needs to learn how to dance.” Rainbow listened in, sipping her tea, ready to decline whatever scheme was being cooked up.

Twilight continued, “So as a Princess of Equestria,” Twilight bowed her head, “I humbly implore you to lend us your hoof in our time need.”

This had struck Trusty to the core. This wasn’t a decree, demand, or even request, rather Twilight posed it as a humble plea. What nerve it would be for anypony to deny such from royalty!

“Your wish is my command, your Highness,” he submitted with a bow, “and whom is the mare of your concern?”

Rarity suddenly yelped out as she pointed, “FLUTTERSHY!” An abrupt soft gasp came from Rarity’s pony of choice. It was all a matter of a coin flip now. Fluttershy looked to Applejack and Pinkie Pie who seemed confused, to Twilight and Rarity giving a pleading grin, then to a depressed Rainbow Dash staring down, sipping her tea.

It was only at the sight of her best friend that she made her decision, “um, Yes, I would love to dance,” looking back to her friend thinking “for Rainbow’s sake.” SUCCESS! Oh, if only she had this sort of luck in Las Pegasus, Rarity thought!

It had been about five minutes, or maybe ten, nopony could tell for sure, as they enraptured to the show being put on for them. Fluttershy didn’t know much about dancing, at least not this sort of dancing. She could dance by herself all the time, even at parties on occasion, going on solo, but she’s never actually danced with another pony before to anypony’s knowledge. She had been too shy in the past to accept the hoof with a colt, but there she was now having the time of her life!

Trusty was surprisingly an even better dancer than Rarity had hoped, or imagined anyway. Is that a rude thought she wondered to herself? Well whatever the case may be, her plan was working, as even Rainbow seemed to forget her worries, impressed herself by Trusty’s moves. It may have been even just as amazing to see how happy Fluttershy was, especially the few times she laughed and wooed. She didn’t know these steps. Maybe she picked some of it up from Rainbow’s opening lessons, but still! Fluttershy was seen putting her trust into Trusty’s hooves, as it were, allowing herself to be led on, moving in accord to his motions. Rainbow couldn’t help but eye carefully this, by some appearance, unassuming train attendant, comparing her missteps, and as Rarity intended, and even learning new steps in the process, as she got to see the whole dance in one scene.

When the dance was complete, both Trusty and Fluttershy bowed together to their applauding audience and Rainbow Dash, the latter of whom merely expressed fascination. Fluttershy found herself in an endorphin-fueled state of laughter, as she turned to train attendant.

“That was so much fun Trusty! I never thought you could…” she stopped herself, realizing the possibly offensive assumption to which she was about to lend voice. Rarity and Rainbow were both thinking it, but Fluttershy of all ponies was just about to say it!

Trusty knew where she going, and being not the least bit insulted, laughed and said, “Well when life is as busy and hectic as mine, one does need to learn how to have fun!”

Ah, so it wasn’t just part of the uniform. Trusty simply was genuinely content with his life. After making that observation in her head, Twilight looked over to Rainbow, relieved to see that something in her had changed.

She then turned back to Trusty and said, “Thank you good sir for your service. I’m sure my friend,” staying ambiguous as to the true beneficiary, “has gained a lot from this experience. You are free to go.”

He bowed to his princess in response, “Happy to have been found suitable to serve, your Highness,” and made his departure after kicking back at the door, careful so as to not to turn his flank on Twilight.

Rainbow Dash was pulled from her thoughts by Rarity, who seemed quite content with herself. “Ready to go again love?” Rarity asked gently, fluttering her eyes in beckoning.

Finally catching on to what that was all about with Trusty and Fluttershy, Rainbow thought a moment, then consented to the Rarity’s incitement, “Um, sure, I guess.”

“Magnifique!” Rarity said, “come out with me now,” as she got up from her seat.

Rainbow sensed in herself a little enthusiasm. It wasn’t much, but it would have to do, so she followed Rarity out to the free space in the car. There was still plenty of time before reaching the station in Canterlot, Rarity thought to herself. She might just pull this off! Getting a better idea of what the dance looked like, Rainbow started from the beginning. Joint heads, rocking, moving from head-to-head to cheek-to-cheek, the one hoofed hug, more swaying, Rainbow knew it all.

They got up on their hind legs and made circles, guided this time only be Rarity’s melodious hums. Circles in time became circles within circles, with no reminder needed. First twirl of Rarity was a success, Rainbow was certain, and she even pushed her nerves through the second twirl, absolutely sure to rock sideways. This being where the lessons previously came to a dramatic halt, Rarity bid her to walk forward, leading Rarity to do the same. Straight through the major circuit they did this, just as Trusty had done with Fluttershy. The third twirl came as Rarity had Rainbow bend her backward, sliding one hind hoof forward so as to keep balance. Rainbow couldn’t help but stretch her wings down, however, Rarity made no fuss over it, almost finding it to the contrary as…kind of sexy! Rainbow was paused by Rarity,

“This could be Summer where I am, love. Now, look deep into my eyes, into her eyes,” Rarity said, still bent over backwards in Rainbow’s hoof. Rainbow gazed into Rarity’s alluring, azure eyes, which unexpectedly, as if by some magical illusion, turned to a much lighter, softer color. It was her eyes, Rainbow saw; those Summer Sky Blue eyes, in which she could soar in and never touch ground again. She could even have sworn the coat color of Rarity’s dimpled face around the eyes changed to that yellow/orange Rainbow admired so much. Rainbow stared deeper into those imagined eyes, caught in the moment of her fantasy. They did not dazzle, nor did they sparkle, rather they were soft, gentle, and absorbing like to a plush pillow giving rest to the weary. So not like Rarity’s! Rainbow was gone, lost in those other eyes she imagined, hearing then a faint,

“Rainbow…Rainbow,” then coming suddenly louder, “Rainbow, come back to us darling!”

“Huh?!” Rainbow said, seeing Rarity’s face, then looking around to see they were still on the train. Her other four friends bore a speculative look wondering why Rainbow was so still for…what, a whole sixty seconds? Hearing then a giggle, she looked back to Rarity who said,

“To the count of three next time, darling. Rise and twirl again…” Without a word Dash got right back to it, raising herself and Rarity straight up and sending Rarity in another spin. They resumed circling more in each other’s hooves, except Rarity held herself closer than before.

Rainbow Dash was doing much better and was even having more fun, as Fluttershy was prior with Trusty. Indeed, Rarity was clever to have used the attendant the way she had, as it made her further instructions much clearer, and simply remembering the steps Trusty pulled had made it all the easier. Even moving sideways seemed less awkward for Dash. Rarity had even, during the process of teaching, found ways for Rainbow to incorporate the use of her wings in the dance, a thing she would have prohibited before. Rainbow’s confidence was rising much faster as her observing friends cheer her on, but she had to bear in mind that she would not have this same sort of sustenance when she got to the Grand Galloping Gala. The two dancers finally came to a stop, each landing hard on three hooves, creating an almost rhythmic clanking. Releasing then each other’s necks, they proceeded circling one another as two coy fish would, each gazing into the other’s comforting eyes. It was nearly over, no more of their rotating circumambulations in the major circuit, as the dance was coming to a close in the center of it all.

Rarity signaled Rainbow to swing into a new direction, moving away from her. Rainbow broke away from Rarity in a clockwise motion and Rarity did the same, as they together formed an infinity sign. That was no doubt an important symbol in the dance.

After meeting back in the center, while Rainbow could have pulled the finale herself, Rarity finished off the lesson, “And…Bow.” This Dash did, as Rarity tried an experiment, “Again, but let’s see how it is when you show off those wings.” They repeated the bowing close, but as Rainbow splayed her wings, Rarity second guessed.

“Hmm, too much I think, never mind.” Rainbow smiled looking away, scratching the back of her neck, and then was swept up by the sudden applause of Twilight, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy, the last of whom almost ready to whimper. She simply had to turn away then, hiding the side of her face facing them with a wing.

Applejack walked over to bashful pegasus, moving the wing covering Rainbow’s face, and acclaimed, “We’re a might proud of you RD. You’ll get her for sure with moves like that!” Rainbow enthusiastically rose her head asking, “You really think so?!” A soft voice opposed, “N-no…” as Dash turned from Applejack to none other than Fluttershy.

“We know you will Rainbow,” Fluttershy clarified, affirming what Applejack said. Rainbow blushed again, only to have her red face pulled by Rarity’s hoof close to her face, as she whispered, “This time with more feeling!”

Author's Note

[RECONSIDER REDESIGNING DANCE LESSON]

[One of the difficulties to deal with is Summer’s height]

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.

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,

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.