The Trauma Within

Chapter 5: The Heights of Sorrow

Her body trembling and overwhelmed with emotion, she rushed off the bed, pacing quickly into the bathroom, and stared into the mirror. Consumed by distress, she broke down with her mind in a disturbed and unsettled state. She gazed at her reflection for a moment before slowly retreating to bed, hoping to find sleep, but the haunting images of the dream continued to torment her, like a relentless spirit stabbing her repeatedly.

Fearful of waking Rarity, she tried to muffle her sobs, worried she would see her vulnerability. Yet the echoes of the voices and screams persisted, haunting her mind until she could bear it no more. Abruptly, she got up and hurried downstairs, the harmful thoughts and voices suddenly surging like a violent wave, nearly causing her to stumble in her emotional state.

Rarity, a light sleeper, woke up a minute after hearing her go downstairs. She glanced, seeing that she wasn’t in bed. She heard the sound of footsteps and a girl sobbing hard, realizing it was Applejack. She got out of bed, calling her name, but received no answer. She put on her bedroom slippers and slowly walked down the steps before hearing something terrifying.

Applejack's voice broke as she pleaded and screamed, "Please, I just want them to stop." She collapsed into uncontrollable sobs.

Applejack's cries echoed through the room as she grabbed a knife from the kitchen drawer, desperate to silence the voices in her head. Rarity hurried downstairs and found her in distress, crying so intensely that part of the counter was wet as if water had spilled. Applejack was now holding a Santoku knife near her wrist.

She was deeply concerned and frightened as Applejack continued to sob uncontrollably. She knew Applejack had been struggling at least since her talk with Big Mac, but this was far more severe than expected. Rather than panicking or calling 911, which would have taken an hour for emergency services to arrive, she took a deep breath and began speaking to her in a calm, reassuring tone.

In a calm, soothing voice, Rarity pleaded, "Applejack, I know you are suffering, but darling, please, I need you to put the knife down."

Rarity then saw something heartbreaking; her usual tough and composed demeanor had given way to a heartbreaking expression of sorrow and despair. Instead of the resilient, loyal, and brave girl that she knew, was now one that questioned the very purpose of existence, devoid of hope and wracked with fear and regret. Applejack's body shook uncontrollably, as if she had never before unleashed such raw emotion. She could see that this outburst had left her feeling even worse than before, now that she had disturbed Rarity's sleep...

Rarity spoke in a gentle, trembling voice, "Darling, please put the knife down. Talk to me. We can do anything you want; I'll do anything; just please, for fuck's sake, put the knife down. If I lose you, I'll regret it for the rest of my life. Your family, me, and your friends would never have wanted this; you are an amazing friend, so important to us all. What about your sister? What about the future of your family? What about all your friends and helping Sunset Shimmer? Please don't leave us. We love you for who you are; I love you for who you are. Just calm down and put the knife down."

Rarity's eyes filled with tears as she continued, "You are one of the most beautiful people in my life. Please, darling, just put it down."

With a heavy heart, Applejack spoke in a soft, sorrowful tone, "I wish I could quiet the turmoil in my mind and think clearly. I've been a disappointment to everyone I know, and I'm truly sorry."

Rarity's voice trembled as she stared in fear, sobbing softly. "You are not a disappointment, darling. You are truly special, and I couldn't bear anything happening to you. Please..." Her heart raced, her chest tighter than an asthma attack, as she was consumed by the terror of the moment.

Applejack stared at the knife, then at her, and back again, repeating the motion about twenty times. Rarity's heart raced, and goosebumps spread across her body. At first, it seemed she might use the knife on herself, as she brought it close to her neck. But then her hand began to tremble. She briefly again heard echoes of laughter, and the knife started to press against her skin, causing small amounts of red liquid to slowly run down.

Rarity started to sob more as her eyes widened again, seeing something flowing down Applejack’s neck. She knew if it went any deeper then it would be a painful drain before lights out, like if time slowed down she saw her suddenly collapse to the ground. “DARLING!?!?!” Rarity screamed as she ran to a cabinet and grabbed a white box with a green plus, then Applejack let the tears flow freely. It was an emotional outpouring, like a literal waterfall. To the ground, the knife slipped from her hands.

Rarity got next to her and checked very fast if she needed to put pressure on to slow down any loss of blood. She released a huge breath, seeing that it didn’t cut the main artery. She pulled her into a tight hug while reaching with her right hand for pads before gently starting to clean the cut.

Her cries were so intense that Rarity had to remove her soaked shirt, unconcerned about her appearance at that moment. All that mattered was the broken soul before her, repeatedly whispering, "I'm sorry." She held her close, like a mother soothing her distraught child. Relieved to see tears rather than blood on the ground, she continued hugging and comforting while cleaning the wound. She reached for a bandage before gently putting it on her neck. She kept her close, slowly helping her up, and then gently took her hand.

Rarity, her voice trembling, said, "Darling, come with me. I've got you, okay? Nothing is going to hurt you." Her sobs were nothing compared to the anguish Applejack was feeling. She broke down again, her body shaking violently as tears streamed down her face like the rushing waters of Niagara Falls. They retreated upstairs to the bedroom, where Rarity enveloped her in a tight, comforting embrace. Rarity then reached for the remote and used it to push the beds together.

Applejack, still in tears, apologized, "I'm sorry I woke you up. I'm a mess, and I feel like I'm wasting your time. You shouldn't have to see me like this. It's my fault; everything I did was my fault. I should have done it faster to spare you the pain of seeing me this way."

Rarity's heart sank as she watched her continue to cry. Adopting a serious tone, Rarity said, "Do not be sorry. You are not a waste of my time; you are truly special to me, and I won't let you rot away like a corpse. This is not you; I want to figure out why so I can help you." Rarity continued to hug Applejack, then gently helped her onto the bed. Overcoming her nervousness to allow her to snuggle close.

She began rocking her soothingly, humming a beautiful, calming tune. Gradually, Applejack's breathing slowed, and she started to calm down. For thirty minutes, they lay quietly together, the soft melody humming the only sound.

Rarity spoke with empathy, "I'm here for you. Take all the time you need to share what happened. It's natural and human to cry when dealing with pain; don't hold back your tears. Bottling up that hurt will only make it worse in the long run. Please tell me what's on your mind. I'm listening, and I won't force you, but when you feel comfortable, you can open up to me. I'm right here, and nothing is going to hurt you. You are not weak in feeling these emotions. Don't be scared."

For the next ten minutes, a heavy silence fell between the two. Rarity remained quiet, not pushing Applejack and allowing her the time to regain her composure. Applejack then began to cry, her tears falling one by one as she clung to Rarity, before eventually opening up and starting to talk about what was troubling her.

Applejack recounted her haunting dream, her voice trembling. “S… So I woke up on a hill. It was dark out. and I was surveying my barn, Lake Alder, and the mountain. In the dream, I was walking slowly when I reached my barn. Suddenly, it exploded, and I saw my younger self, my sister as a baby, and Big Mac. Then the dream forced me to walk through the burning building, where I witnessed the lifeless bodies of two people." She broke down in sobs once more.

Rarity asked worriedly, "What happened to them... Applejack?" Did debris fall on them or were they overcome by too much smoke?"

“W…well it.” Applejack's voice trembled as she spoke through sobs. "The debris impaled them, causing them to bleed out and choke on blood and smoke." She paused, her tone scared and sorrowful. "It... it killed them both."

Rarity's voice trembled with concern and fear as she asked, "Darling, was it that bad?"

Applejack's voice trembled as she recounted the haunting dream. The nightmare had only intensified. "The echoing voices of the deceased berated me, calling me a disappointment and claiming my brother and I could have saved them. Overcome with emotion, I wept until the scene shifted, transporting me to a hillside where their graves lay. I placed flowers on the graves, but then a cloud heavy with lightning surged into the sky, ominously disrupting the somber moment."

“A cloud rising from the sky with lightning? Where did it come from?” Asked Rarity, trying to understand.

Applejack softly sobbed as she recounted the horrific scene. "The cloud came from the mountain itself. From where I was standing, I saw a dark, gray cloud surge forward, filled with debris and rock. As it hit me, I suffered burns and wounds. The mud was boiling in the aftermath. I tried to get help, but then I witnessed Fluttershy burning to death and Sunset shooting herself. I saw the bullet go through her neck and exit out of her head before I screamed painfully. Then I justt... woke up" Her voice trailed off, overcome with emotion.

Rarity wrapped her friend in a comforting embrace. "Darling, I'm so sorry you had to see that," she murmured.

Applejack sighed, "I can't seem to shake these thoughts from my mind. I feel trapped in a cycle of sadness and regret. After witnessing those things, I can't think clearly. I'm sorry for disturbing you with this; I shouldn't have burdened you when I'm struggling to cope on my own." Said Applejack.

"Darling, the human mind is never completely clear. We all have moments of self-doubt and fear. Some struggle with more severe issues like this, while others cope by staying strong, though some may collapse under the weight of it all. Ultimately, we all suffer from these challenges to some degree. I don't want you or anyone else who has these problems to feel this way. No one should have to endure such anguish."

Rarity paused, then continued, "Now, your dream did an impressive job of describing a volcanic eruption. You're right, the mountain is indeed an active volcano, and I or Sci-Twi would be happy to teach you more about it. But for now, don't worry too much about that.”

Applejack's voice trembled slightly as she asked, "What about the part with Fluttershy and Sunset Shimmer?"

“Fluttershy's involvement in the dream was likely making the situation worse. However, that surge was hot enough and should have melted the gun, so the fact that she was still able to use it is very concerning. Sunset's mental breakdown today has left me deeply worried about her. This detail may be an important message. It's unclear whether the volcanic eruption itself carries any deeper meaning. For now, try not to worry about that aspect.” Rarity tried to comfort her, adding a flirtatious tone. "You are a wonderful, amazing, good-looking, sexy angel. I don't want this pain to linger within you," Rarity said in a caring yet sorrowful voice.

Applejack asked nervously, "How am I... sexy?"

Rarity spoke with a gentle tone, "Darling, you are the perfect body type. You work hard and have developed some wonderful muscles, yet your genetics allow you to maintain a beautiful, almost ethereal appearance. You are honest, loyal, and a wonderful protector. Sunset would be lost without your maternal guidance. Even when you face challenges or make mistakes, you stay focused and determined. You may not look 'tough,' but your willingness to be vulnerable and authentic only makes you more attractive, like an angel sent to help us. Never doubt your worth. You are simply perfect in my eyes."

Applejack struggled to find the right words, stammering, "I... I... Thank you, Rarity, I..."

Rarity asked with a small smirk, "You told me that being honest is what makes people connect more. Right?"

"Yes, I did,” said Applejack with a gentle smile.

"Rarity spoke softly as she held Applejack close. 'Those voices aren't telling you the truth. Sometimes you need to ignore them. I know they would be so proud of you, and I'm proud of you too. Don't let your fears take over, okay?”

Applejack's words grew drowsy as she slowly succumbed to sleepiness again. "Okay, thank you. I'm sorry for... this," she murmured.

Rarity gently played with her hair as she spoke, "There's no need to apologize. I'm here for you, darling. I care about you deeply, and I don't want you to feel this way." Her voice was soothing and reassuring.

A smile appeared on her face, and suddenly her cheeks flooded with red as her head lay gently on Rarity. She could hear the slow-paced, peaceful breathing with a single patterned heartbeat. Instead of hearing the chaos that couldn’t balance, the chaos transformed into a single predicted heavenly pattern for her mind to follow.

"Hey, Rarity... Can I ask you something?" She paused, then continued, "Have you ever thought about love or romance? I don't think about it much myself, what with all the work on the farm and at school," asked Applejack.

"I greatly enjoy spending time with a certain someone, but I'm often hesitant because they lead a very different lifestyle than I do. I worry about how people might judge me, even though I would love to build a life together with them. There's something about this person that makes my heart swell with joy and fills me with butterflies. However, I'm scared to act on those feelings, as it's a secret that only Fluttershy knows about." Said Rarity.

"I'm glad you have someone you want," said Applejack. "I've been single my whole life, but it's not the worst thing in the world."

Rarity remarked, "You're quite attractive, so I'm surprised no one has asked you out yet."

“Rarity…. Compared to me, you would be able to attract a whole damm football team; like damm, you are like one of the most attractive ever compared to me. Said Applejack

Rarity paused, realizing the implications of her previous statement. "Well, darling, that was a rather bold remark coming from someone who looks quite adorable while working," she said, her voice tinged with a hint of self-consciousness.

Applejack felt her face flush a deep crimson, like a rose in full bloom. Her heart began to race, and her breathing grew heavy with nervous anticipation. She, too, felt a blush creep across her cheeks as their eyes met, the fancy green of Applejack's irises aligning with Rarity's own captivating blue, like constellations in the night sky.

"Rarity... Why did you say it like that?" Applejack asked, her voice trembling slightly.

Rarity simply smiled, her intentions clear, and she gently grabbed her hand. She got closer before gently putting her hand on Applejack’s cheek, both of their faces covered in pink as if they had makeup. Then she leaned in, their lips slowly connecting. The stress and uncertainty in Applejack's mind melted away, replaced by a sense of calm as she returned the kiss. After a few seconds that felt like an eternity, they parted, both wearing warm, content smiles.

Applejack's face burned a deep shade of red as she stammered, "Wow. I don't know what to say."

Rarity smirked, "Ohhhh, shut up! You liked it." She then gave another deep, passionate kiss. The kiss was long, as neither of them wanted it to end. After a brief pause to catch their breath, they shared another long, deep, affectionate kiss. This final kiss felt like an eternity, though it only lasted around 30 seconds.

Applejack spoke in a nervous yet joyful tone, "Heh... Dang, you must have waited a long time."

“Darling… You do not understand how long I waited to kiss those pretty, amazing lips, have you? Now… Didn’t you see me asking for one after you opened my ears when the other girl tried to be an asshole about fashion?” Asked Rarity.

“I remember that, but I didn’t recall you wanted a kiss then... I know your cheeks turned red—oh… Now I see... Said Applejack with a nervous chuckle.

With a gentle tone and fidgeting with her hair, Rarity pleaded, "Please don't hurt yourself again. If something is bothering you, talk to me. I care deeply about you, and I couldn't bear it if anything happened to you. I never want to see your name on a gravestone."

Applejack smiled as she replied, "Yes, I promise, Rarity."

Rarity asked with a gentle, loving smile, "Are you ready to go to sleep, or would you like a few more kisses to soothe your mind? I'd be happy to give you some additional affectionate messages."

“If you want to, I’m very relaxed and calm now. Thanks, I owe you one sugar cube. Said Applejack

Rarity gazed tenderly at her beloved, murmuring, "You owe me nothing. I only wish for your well-being, my darling. You are a truly special soul." She then pressed a trail of gentle kisses along their neck.

Applejack's face flushed a deep red as her heart raced and her breathing quickened. Rarity gently pulled her closer, enveloping her in a comforting embrace. She felt safe and loved as they slowly drifted back to sleep. An electric connection passed between them. Their hands intertwined, and they snuggled close, their faces slightly reddened. Contentment and comfort radiated from them. She made sure to keep her close, unwilling to let her go.

Applejack fell asleep quickly, but she remained awake for a few minutes, listening to the steady rhythm of her heartbeat and breathing before placing a soft kiss on her forehead. "Goodnight, darling," Rarity murmured before succumbing to sleep herself. They slept together, gentle smiles gracing their faces before the morning sunshine of the Pacific Northwest gradually filled the room.

The next morning, Rarity woke up with a small yawn. She saw her sleeping peacefully and comfortably, like a baby snuggled close to its mother. She was snuggled tight enough to allow Rarity to get out without waking her if needed. Though tough on the outside, in private, Applejack was a sweet, innocent soul who simply yearned for a peaceful life, unhindered by the demands of the world.

Rarity carefully got out of bed and began her morning routine. Downstairs, she set about preparing a delightful breakfast. First, she gathered the ingredients: 1 1/4 pounds of fresh croissants, an 8-ounce package of cubed cream cheese, 2 1/2 cups of raspberries, 12 large eggs, 2 cups of milk, a quarter cup of honey, vanilla extract, salt, and sugar. She mixed everything and popped it in the oven for an hour.

Returning upstairs, she found Applejack still sleeping peacefully, a gentle smile on her face as she saw her cuddle the pillow. Rarity couldn't help but smile, her cheeks a bright pink at the sight, before kissing her forehead and heading to the fashion room to work on a design. Fifty minutes later, she came back downstairs and prepared the second part of breakfast—eggs, sausage, bacon, and cheese. She also brewed a pot of vanilla-flavored coffee, adding her favorite mix of sugar and strawberry creamer. Finally, she carefully removed the heart-shaped baked dish from the oven, pleased by the delicious aroma.

With great care, she arranged the breakfast on two plates, making it as visually appealing as possible. She then retrieved a custom tray she had purchased earlier, placed the plates on it, and carried the tray upstairs, setting it on the table beside her bed. After this, she went back downstairs to fetch two cups of coffee, returning to the bedroom, where she found Applejack slowly rousing, a sight that made her blush.

"Awwww, she is so damn cute!!!!” Said Rarity in her mind as she put the coffee cups down before going next to Applejack. Rarity gently cradled her head in her lap, tenderly running her fingers through her soft, yellow hair. Applejack let out a cute yawn and snuggled into Rarity's legs, mistaking them for a pillow. The sight brought an amused chuckle from Rarity. Moments later, Applejack slowly opened her eyes and greeted her with a warm smile.

“Good morning, Rarity... What are you doing up this early morning sugar cube?" said Applejack was still very sleepy.

“Early? Darling, it’s like 10 am! Normally you wake up earlier than this for farm work.” Said Rarity as she giggled a little.

“True… That smells good... Did you make breakfast?” Asked Applejack.

Rarity spoke in a sassy, flirtatious tone as she presented her with a plate of her homemade creations. "I made this especially for you, darling. There are eggs with melted cheese, sausage, and bacon, as well as a raspberry croissant French toast in the shape of a heart. And to drink, I've prepared some vanilla coffee. I do hope you'll enjoy it, as I made it all myself just for you."

She blushed as she tried the breakfast Rarity had prepared for her. "Thank you, Rarity; I appreciate you making this for me," she said. The first bite sent a delightful flavor through her taste buds, and a gentle, happy smile spread across her face. Rarity's heart raced as she watched her joyful expression. She then tried the food herself and was shocked at how perfectly it had turned out—normally her cooking was limited to small dishes, but this was a true masterpiece. A smile lit up Rarity's face as well.

“Oh my god... I didn’t know it would come out this perfect... Oh, this tastes good..." said Rarity with a surprised and joyful voice.

"Well, this may be good, but not as perfect of a soul as your sugar cube,” said Applejack.

Rarity's cheeks flushed as she smirked, then she leaned in and placed a lingering kiss on her cheek. Applejack's face instantly reddened, and her heart raced with surprise and delight. The two continued to enjoy their breakfast, but Rarity had a plan—she was going to take her on a trip, hoping to help alleviate her lover's fear of the mountain.

Applejack stared toward her fancy necklaces and earrings on top of a gray dresser. On the walls were fancy pictures of all of the outfits she had worn over the 18-month timeframe, one of them a blue dress with pink high heels with small diamond earrings. She was amazed by how much work was put into every single design.

Applejack posed the question to Rarity; her curiosity piqued. "Do wealthy people tend to be happier? I wonder since you've found great success in the fashion industry and seem quite prosperous."

"Being wealthy does not inherently make someone bad or guarantee them a happy life. While money is important for obtaining necessities, true fulfillment comes from having meaningful relationships and contributing to society. Even when I'm financially secure, I maintain a mindset of frugality and prioritize helping others over frivolous spending," said Rarity.

She continued. "There are far more impactful ways to utilize wealth, such as funding critical services like cancer research and supporting those in need. Ultimately, excessively indulgent spending on unnecessary luxuries is pointless. Although I may be rich, I aim to use my resources responsibly and inspire others to pursue their goals rather than fueling the perception that wealth impedes achievement,” said Rarity.

Rarity paused momentarily before resuming her thought. "For example, I think you're more important to people than I am in terms of helping families enjoy their food and lives and stay healthy. Your job is harder than mine—you have to worry more about tight resource management, while I have more freedom to produce fashion designs. I wish I could help people more, but sometimes they seem to hide their true colors.

She continued. "You're a hardworking girl who helps so many families, yet you're undervalued because of the current state of United States society, while people like me who have access to rich resources can create more valuable items. I've always admired how you never complain and work three times harder than most, yet people underrate your true worth. It breaks my heart to see such an amazing, valuable person so underappreciated." Rarity said before pulling her close and nuzzling her cheek affectionately.

“I do appreciate that you pay attention to what happens in the world right now... Life is pretty hard even for my family, who has a good history of helping people.” Said Applejack.

Rarity continued, "I'm here for you, no matter how rich I am or how poor you are. I want you to be happy and stop stressing. If your family needs help, I am always there for you and your family. You shouldn't let those negative voices win. If you need anything to kill those negative thoughts, I am here for you. I may not fully understand the level of stress and pain you endure daily working on that farm, but I want to try to help in any way I can, my dear. You are a magical, hardworking angel, and I cherish you, no matter how tough you have to be." Rarity then kissed her cheek again.

Applejack's voice wavered as a few small tears rolled down her cheek. "I don't know how to thank you, Rarity," she said.

She suddenly leaned in and kissed her deeply, catching her off guard. They surrendered to the kiss, slowly sinking back onto the bed. Rarity then cuddled close, exchanging a series of passionate, lingering kisses that felt like an eternity to the two lovers. As the kisses finally ended, Rarity gently teased Applejack's neck, leaving a trail of tantalizing hickeys that made Applejack's eyes briefly roll back in a mix of shock and pleasure.

Rarity then smiled, savoring the moment before speaking. "After breakfast, I was thinking we could go to a flower field. I know we could just stay here and cuddle, but it's too nice out to be indoors," said Rarity.

"Since I don't have any farm work until Tuesday, I'd enjoy taking a trip outside to explore nature," Applejack said.

Rarity smiled gently as she said, "Let's finish breakfast first before we head out. And don't worry, if you don't have any extra clothes, I can easily make you something since I'm a fashion designer, darling."

“Well, what’s the point when it’s going to feel like spring? I think I'm going to show a little skin today because, why not? Plus, it would be very nice to clear my mind from what happened in that dream last night.” Said Applejack...

"Well, darling, I don’t think anyone would mind that, as you are such a precious gem of beauty. Anyhow, are you staying tonight or are you going back to the farm today, Applejack?” Asked Rarity.

“Another day or two couldn’t hurt, but I don’t know if I should be Snow White and trust your sweet apple or dance around you like a venomous snake.“ Asked Applejack in a teasing but gentle tone.

Rarity's face flushed as she spoke. "That's not fair, Applejack." She paused, then continued,

"But seriously, maybe we could go out to the woods today. There's a beautiful flower region near the mountain, but the scenery might help calm your fears." Rarity gently took Applejack's hand as she made the suggestion.

Applejack's voice trembled with fear as she exclaimed, "You want me to go near it? The one that nearly killed me in that dream?!"

"Darling," Rarity said, "there is a beautiful flower field on the northeastern side of the mountain near Sunrise, Washington. I know you're afraid, but nothing will happen there except for us enjoying a few snacks and taking in the breathtaking beauty created by it," said Rarity while continuing to hold Applejack’s hand.

“Fine…. We can go, but if anything happens then...” Said Applejack in a nervous tone.

Rarity said, "Then we will leave and come back here to enjoy time together...alright?" before kissing Applejack's cheek again. Rarity then went to change into some new clothes—a pair of shorts and a nice T-shirt. "It's going to be fun; I'll be right back; I'm just going to go change, okay?" Rarity asked.

Alright... go ahead and do what you need to do... I will get ready right after I finish this little bit of food and drink the rest of the coffee. By the way, thank you; this was delicious!” Said Applejack in an excited tone.

Rarity said, "No problem, darling. I'll be right back," before heading to the bathroom to change her clothes. Applejack stared at it with a curious and slightly fearful expression after witnessing Rarity's departure. She finished eating and waited for Rarity, who took around five minutes to come out, as she needed to do a bit of makeup. She then did the same, using the bathroom.

Rarity was sitting on the bed, finishing her breakfast. Applejack had already finished hers. For the next ten minutes. Once Applejack had finished eating and drinking, she double-checked her bag to ensure everything was packed. She then took the plates downstairs, washed the cups and plates in the sink, and placed them on the drying racks.

"Are you ready, darling?" Rarity asked, her hand gently caressing Applejack's cheek. "We'll be taking my motorcycle to Longmire, Washington, which is on the southern slope. Don't worry, if anything happens, we'll leave right away, okay?"

Applejack's eyes widened in surprise. "You have a motorcycle?" she exclaimed.

“Follow me, darling.” Rarity spoke in a sassy voice, giving her a cute smirk before they left the front door. After locking the door, Rarity opened the garage, which was a fancy-looking space to store a motorcycle. Her eyes landed on the Harley Davidson bike with its red color sparkling like it was brand new; she retrieved two helmets before climbing on. Applejack got on behind her.

Rarity spoke in a serious tone, "Stay balanced and hold on to me tightly, darling. Make sure your helmet is secure, just in case we encounter any issues."

Applejack asked nervously, "Wait, I have to hold onto you? Where?"

Rarity said with a small smirk, "Sit close beside me and hold my waist. Grip the handles so you can stay steady—your hands may need to be right next to mine. But don't be nervous, darling. I know I look like a goddess, but my curves aren't that intimidating. You can be a little tighter, darling. You don’t have to be scared, alright? Your hands are soft anyway.” Said Rarity before turning the motorcycle on.

She nervously followed Rarity's instructions as she carefully tested the motorcycle. Slowly pulling out of the driveway and turning right. The motorcycle's speed suddenly increased as they headed towards Longmire. Applejack's heart raced, and her nerves were on edge, as she had never ridden a motorcycle before.

However, Rarity skillfully navigated the journey, ensuring their safety. As they passed through the town of Elbe, Rarity smirked as she accelerated, making the motorcycle go faster. The increased speed caused Applejack's hair to come a little loose. Applejack's nervousness turned to excitement as she shouted, "YEEEEEE HAWWWWW!!!"

Rarity laughed, amused by her dumb but happy expression on the motorcycle. Around 10:40 am, Applejack and Rarity reached Longmire and entered the National Park, where they got off the bike. The landscape was breathtaking, with trees and flowers covering the land, leading up to the start of the rocky terrain that formed the towering mountain.

Rarity realized she had to ride the motorcycle for nearly two more hours to reach Sunrise from Longmire. She pumped up the gas tank but made sure to go slowly, prioritizing safe reaction times to avoid an accident. Meanwhile, as they traveled to the northeastern side of Mount Rainier, let's shift our focus back to Orting.

After completing her morning routine and driving over there, Fluttershy went to help at the animal shelter, which she usually enjoyed immensely. However, today felt different—she didn't experience the same level of joy, even when caring for the cute creatures. There was one girl in particular whom she felt couldn't be helped or had given up hope. Andrew, the long-time shelter director, recognized when something was troubling one of his most dedicated volunteers.

As Fluttershy tended to a baby bird with an injured wing, the creature chirped a delightful song that made her smile. Typically, she would have gently hugged and cradled the birdie, but today she simply observed it—an uncharacteristic reaction. Approaching cautiously, he watched her care for the injured animal, which had been in her charge for about a week.

“Hey…. Are you doing okay, Fluttershy? You seem to be not as happy as you normally are.“ Asked Andrew with a concerned expression.

“No…. Just be worried about someone who has been struggling... She has been trying to reform herself for the last year, and she started well... of course with a few hiccups, but I thought she was doing very well until... yesterday," said Fluttershy in a worried tone.

Andrew pulled up two chairs so he and Fluttershy could sit and talk. "I've heard a lot of mixed opinions about her. It's sad that some people still see her as a terrible person, even after she's worked so hard to earn people's trust and respect. What is it about her that concerns you?" he asked.

Fluttershy frowned as she recounted her concerns. "Last night, I noticed three troubling things. First, she nearly had a breakdown, despite normally being very calm. Just minutes earlier, she had been laughing and appeared happy. Second, I don't believe that breakdown was representative of her true self, as she has been struggling greatly. Third, the fact that she was afraid to appear vulnerable in front of us concerns me. Something is wrong."

Andrew asked, "It's like an animal that has been wounded many times. For example, imagine a puppy that had multiple bad experiences with its owners. Then a new owner came along and cared for the puppy. Do you think the puppy would immediately trust the new owner, or would it take time or refuse to trust at all?"

Fluttershy looked up at Andrew and said, "The puppy will either need more time to trust, or it may never trust again."

"She is like a wounded puppy," Andrew explained. "When too many things go wrong, the mind can lose hope, leading to depression or self-doubt in humans. Could be reforming not just because she wants to get better but also out of fear after the mental anguish she experienced last night and throughout her life. She's likely feeling terrified right now."

Fluttershy pondered, "What is troubling her? We've shown that we care for her, so what is she afraid of that we can't comprehend?"

Andrew expressed concern that she may still be struggling with deep-seated insecurities and emotional issues. He noted that after the battle at the high school, she was seen crying, suggesting she fears appearing weak in front of others. Andrew also mentioned the incident with the Dazzlings during that concert situation, where it seemed to act in a way that hinted at abandonment fears and inner turmoil.

Andrew speculated that she may still have a "raging soul" inside, leading to self-doubt, depression, or even suicidal thoughts. He wondered if, despite being friends now, they might still have unresolved issues that could resurface, especially if a situation spiraled out of control or she made a mistake.

Finally, Andrew questioned whether she had experienced any lingering injuries or weaknesses from the past events, which she may have hidden but could eventually come back to haunt her, as can happen with some animals or humans in their lives.

Fluttershy's face lit up with realization as she said, "Those are really good points. I never thought of it that way before."

Andrew suggested that the girls have an important conversation to make a backup plan in case something happens to their friend. He noted that even small actions, like checking in on someone or inviting them to get a meal or go for a walk, can improve their mental well-being. As an example, he recommended that Fluttershy ask to take her for breakfast before school tomorrow.

“That is a great idea... Thanks… Let me not waste any more time and take care of these adorable animals.” Said Fluttershy, smiling more brightly.

"Trying to help someone with difficulties improve is the right thing to do," Andrew said with a gentle smile. "It's not a waste of time, because we all face challenges, and even the strongest, smartest people need a little guidance or support now and then. No one can go through everything completely alone."

Fluttershy turned back to the adorable, injured baby bird and chuckled softly as it made a few cute noises. A warm smile spread across her face as she tended to the little creature. "Thank you," she said.

As Andrew returned to the counter to check on the animals' status, Fluttershy tended to their needs, ensuring they were healthy and had water. Meanwhile, she was planning an outfit but encountered several challenges. She worried about drawing too much attention upon their return to school, and Sunset's early schedule meant Fluttershy would have to wake up early to pick her up in time. Most importantly, Fluttershy needed to discuss her troubles and was determined to help her overcome inner turmoil. She continued to think and try to plan for tomorrow while taking care of the baby animals.

They finally reached the northeastern side of the mountain at Sunrise, Washington, where a small, picturesque meadow of flowers came into view. They parked the motorcycle and stepped into the serene floral landscape. Rarity had thoughtfully brought a picnic basket, securely attached to the front of the bike, so it wouldn't be jostled during the ride.

The two friends then discovered a grassy spot, surrounded by volcanic rocks, on the mountain's northeastern slope. Rarity laid out a blanket, and they sat down to enjoy their picnic, taking in the peaceful sounds of birds, buzzing bees, and rustling nature. Applejack was struck by the juxtaposition—how something as volatile as a volcano could also foster such tranquil, breathtaking beauty. The girls sat amidst the flowers, butterflies, and bees, marveling at the wonder of this hidden gem nestled in the rugged terrain.

“I never knew that things that destroyed nature could create some of the most amazing-looking places on this planet. I always fought; they just killed things because, well, there you know... volcanoes.” said Applejack.

"Nature and destruction are intrinsically linked. Though opposites, like water and fire, they both create the conditions for change. A wildfire may devastate a region, but it also clears the way for new forest growth. Similarly, the human mind and nature both cycle through periods of gradual, peaceful development as well as sudden, disruptive change. This cycle of destruction and renewal is the natural order of evolution—we are meant to adapt and become stronger, more advanced, and more beautiful over time, even as patterns repeat themselves." Said Rarity.

Applejack noticed a beautiful monarch butterfly land on her arm. "Awww, how pretty!" she exclaimed with a smile. Rarity, seeing the butterfly, responded, "That is such a lovely creature. Applejack, could you please stay still? I'd love to take a picture of it." As Rarity readied her camera, the butterfly fluttered a bit, making it look even more adorable.

Applejack chuckled as the butterfly did an adorable dance, tickling her. "Hey, little guy, stop that! It tickles!" Rarity took multiple cute photos of the scene as they watched the butterfly with amusement, occasionally chuckling. The small breeze and warm sun created a relaxing, comfortable atmosphere as the butterfly flew away peacefully.

Applejack asked, "Are you suggesting that without these volcanoes, most of these things may have never happened?”

In a surprising turn, Rarity responded to Applejack with an unexpected, scientific explanation. "The sun's formation of our planet and a single impact that created the moon account for only about 20% of Earth's wonders. The remaining 80% were shaped by the planet's volcanic processes. They were essential for the development of climate and weather. Even cataclysmic eruptions ultimately facilitate the amazing, diverse forms of evolution that make our planet so unique."

Applejack surveyed the picturesque landscape and asked, "But doesn't nature have to be destroyed before it can be created?”

They are feared by many due to their deadly potential, which depends on numerous unpredictable factors. A person's home could be obliterated by flows, or a farm could be inundated and destroyed by dust and mud. The safest approach is to evacuate until it subsides, then return and use the destructive power as a tool for creation. However, some people still choose to live near them, captivated by their majestic beauty and the unique, fascinating, and often breathtaking landscapes they produce.” said Rarity.

“So common sense basically.,” said Applejack.

Rarity's response was thoughtful and nuanced. "Yes, I understand your trepidation about what looms; while the devastation could undo much of your hard work, it may also present new opportunities. They can provide valuable benefits; rather than let fear blind you, I encourage you to thoughtfully assess each challenge. If it's the right one, embrace it. If not, respect your limits but look for ways to turn them to your advantage. Above all, try to appreciate each day, every creature and landmark, as new and beautiful—before any disaster strikes."

Rarity paused, realizing she was sounding a bit like Fluttershy in her appreciation of nature or Sci-Twi in her analytical approach. "What I'm telling you is important for your thinking. Unfortunately, danger is often what makes people truly value the world around them. Even though you do deeply value life, many others don't until they face mortality or a close call."

Applejack chuckled lightly as she admitted, "You're right. It was pretty foolish of me to fear something that's not likely to happen."

"Darling, everyone has fears, just like I fear that our friendships will eventually fall apart. I'm also afraid, but understanding the risks and what to do can help me develop coping strategies. And I have this silly fear that the other girl in the fashion scene, who acts like a bitch, will somehow ruin my chances," Rarity confessed.

Applejack asked Rarity, "What will happen to your beauty and fashion business now that it's been devastated by the volcanic eruption?"

Rarity spoke with a small smirk, "I've regained my financial footing, my dear. But I wonder, What are the odds this picturesque mountain will turn on me and ruin everything?"

“Like a horse going haywire over a predator, they all start as not knowing the future ahead of them; I guess I should make plans just in case it erupts in the future,” said Applejack.

Rarity held her companion's hand and said with a small smirk, "For now, darling. Forget about it, and let's simply enjoy this lovely sunny day. The weather is delightfully cool, and the views are truly amazing."

Applejack's cheeks flushed as she exchanged a lingering, romantic gaze. "Alright," she said. Suddenly, an adorable butterfly landed on Applejack's arm and then fluttered to her shoulder. Within moments, four more butterflies alighted on her arm and leg. Applejack smiled gently. "I know my face is as red as a flower, but I'm not a plant—these little creatures are just so cute and pretty!"

Rarity winked at Applejack and said, "My, someone is blossoming like a little rose in this lovely weather, isn't she?"

Applejack's cheeks flushed as she stammered, "What do you mean, Rarity?" Her heart raced, skipping a beat, before Rarity retrieved two glasses and a bottle of the famous apple cider.

Rarity gazed at Applejack adoringly. "The red in your cheeks is as vibrant as a rose, and the butterflies fluttering around you are simply divine. Not that they could ever be as adorable as you, my dear. You have a heavenly, wholesome beauty about you." Said Rarity before handing Applejack a glass of cider.

The area surrounding experienced a brief rumble followed by light tremors. While minor earthquakes were common in this region, the sudden tremors caused Applejack's heart to race as she felt a surge of worry and unease. Noticing her distress, Rarity quickly reached out and grasped her friend's hand, holding it firmly.

"Darling, it's alright," Rarity reassured. "It does this every so often; just relax."

“O..... Oh, you're right, we are okay. My bad, Rarity.“ Applejack spoke in an embarrassed tone as she calmed down.

Rarity gently squeezed her hand and said, "It will take time, but trust me, you're going to be okay." She then placed a comforting kiss on her cheek. For the next twenty minutes, they quietly took in the sounds of nature around them. Occasionally, they felt small tremors beneath the mountain. Suddenly, a little bunny rabbit hopped towards their picnic basket, making them both giggle. Rarity reached into the basket and pulled out a carrot, which she offered to the bunny. The bunny happily accepted the treat before hopping away.

Rarity jokingly remarked, "Well, that was not very nice of the bunny; it didn't even say thank you!" She then made a comment that caught Applejack's attention. "This apple cider you all made from the apples wouldn't be as delightful without you and this mountain," Rarity said with a small wink.

Applejack asked, "How did this help me make this cider?"

Rarity, blushing, asked, "If you're willing, I'd be happy to show you around for a few hours so you can better understand that question. It would just be the two of us studying the landscape."

Applejack blushed as she replied, "Sure, I'd love to."

She then grabbed the picnic basket and blanket and started walking towards the northwestern side. The hike took around four hours with no breaks. Rarity decided to take a shortcut, which she could reach more quickly on her motorcycle. She drove carefully to avoid hitting any trees or small animals. Finally, they reached their destination, and the sight that greeted them was truly breathtaking. Rarity pointed out that the area where they stood had experienced a major event around 5,000 years ago—the Osceola mudflow—as they took in the breathtaking views on this side of the mountain.

“What’s that?” Applejack asked.

"A massive lahar originated not long ago. It was triggered by a series of potential avalanches or a volcanic eruption, which caused a landslide. The lahar was further transformed by hydrothermal activity that weakened the rock, turning it into a soft, clay-like material. When this saturated, unstable layer was disturbed, the powerful lahar surged to Puget Sound. The event was both rapid and immense in scale." Explained Rarity.

Applejack looked at how big this mudflow may have been, then remembered that the view from Big Apple Acres has the part of the mudflow region within sight, and with the way the land was flat... She realized that her old family tree had built their home on the old mudflows, and it was a reason why the crops, the cider, and the farm work were so successful... destruction had turned an area from being wrecked to a place of value and beauty from old eruptions eventually helping the soil turn rich for crop growth.

“Wow... That is incredible what one mudflow can do to a landscape...” Said Applejack, taking on the sights of the passed mudflow.

"Your success may have been shaped by what happened in your backyard long ago. Without it, the stunning sunrises and the beautiful landscape shaped by its evolution may never have existed. Though volcanoes can be destructive, they ultimately honor nature and bring forth new beauty in their wake, as the earth's cycles renew and even improve the potential for life and beauty," Rarity said with a smile. Said Rarity.

Applejack asked, "Rarity, does it have a history of lahars?"

"Yes, darling... 55 Lahar’s have been confirmed by the U.S. Geological Survey over the past 10,000 years... This beauty of a mountain does have very good odds with all the thermal springs and glaciers on its summit to trigger one. However, most only go out a few miles away from the volcano. But towns around the area have been trying to make plans for a future eruption that could cause the threat of towns getting buried by the mudflows.” Said Rarity.

Applejack, now curious about the history of these lahars, asked, "Could we look for a few examples of mudflows? That would help me understand them better."

“Of course, Applejack, I am willing to teach you the way...” Said Rarity

“Normally it would be Sci-Twi who would be studying this stuff, but I didn’t know that you looked at this stuff too.” Said Applejack.

Rarity spoke in an excited voice, "Anyhow, let's get down there to look for some remains of Lahar!" Rarity got on her motorcycle, and Applejack climbed on behind her, holding on nervously, though she assured her it was the right thing to do to prevent falling off. Rarity started the bike, and they began the 40-45 minute journey towards Greenwater, Washington, near road NF-7550. Upon reaching the White River, Rarity spotted the lahar deposits and pulled over in an area just outside Greenwater around 4 pm. She then showed Applejack the lahar deposit.

Rarity spoke in a serious tone, "Sci-Twi and I would venture out monthly to search for more evidence of lahars—an overlooked volcanic threat that we find fascinating to study. Our goal is to better understand, so we can take action to save lives in the event of an eruption."

"Wow, look at this ruined area...“ said Applejack while looking around.

Rarity held Applejack's hand and looked into her eyes as she spoke. "Imagine mudflows five times larger than the smaller ones we've seen. That's the scale of destruction that could be unleashed with a major slide or eruption. The girls are just 7 of the 1.4 million people who could be affected by lahars. You have every right to fear that mountain, and so do I. But we can't let that fear cloud our judgment. Stay vigilant, but try not to worry too much. When the time comes, if it comes, we'll do what we must to help people and save who we can. For now, let's appreciate the gifts that nature has given us."

Applejack spoke with a concerned look, saying, "I understand that Fluttershy doesn't worry much and just focuses on living her life. But what about Sunset Shimmer? I'm still very worried about her."

Rarity squeezed Applejack's hand tighter as she said, "Whatever happens to that girl, Fluttershy and I will be there to help her every step of the way. Fluttershy agreed earlier, before we left, to even make room for her if the situation gets really bad. I'm hoping she'll call me tonight so we can discuss it further. Don't worry, Fluttershy, and I have it under control."

Baby birds and small animals make adorable noises around as nature continues its job of life. The warm spring day helps nature become more charming as flowers start to bloom from their sleep of the winter... like a magic spell of heaven, the flowers bloomed around the trees with butterflies and honeybees all around. The trees, some hundreds to thousands of years old, had a very peaceful feeling as the girls started slowly walking down part of the forest path.

"Rarity, I want to thank you for your help," said Applejack, gazing into Rarity's beautiful blue eyes. "I know I can be stubborn, but it's so valuable when someone guides me towards the right mental path, the one that opens the gates to creative thinking and peaceful beauty."

"Darling, we all need support sometimes. There's no need to be afraid. I know you're accustomed to being a caregiver for the group, staying strong even through hardships that cloud your mind. But it's good to let your mind relax and breathe freely once in a while." Rarity said gently.

You make a fair point, Rarity, but I must start preparing for the upcoming harvest soon. As a result, my muscles will likely become tense again at some juncture," Applejack stated.

Rarity winked playfully. "You work so hard on that farm, darling. It's only fair that I help you relax those muscles when you're done." She smirked and placed a teasing kiss on his neck, her hand gently holding her hand. "After all, you sugar cubes certainly know how to 'work it.' So it's my turn to work it for my cutie pie, don't you think?"

Applejack's face flushed a deep red as Rarity reached for her hand. Rarity gazed at Applejack with a romantic expression, slowly closing the distance between them. Applejack tentatively placed her hands on Rarity's waist, her heart racing as Rarity's captivating blue eyes met hers. She then leaned in for a deep, lingering kiss, and they paused to catch their breath before giving in to another passionate embrace. After their intimate moment, she continued to hold her hand as they got back on the motorcycle, agreeing to head to Orting, Washington, to meet up with Fluttershy to discuss concerns.

Though they were smiling and happy, Applejack still felt apprehensive about the imposing, snowcapped mountain looming over the region, and to understand the captivating yet deadly nature, we must examine its origins...

The area lies within the Ring of Fire, a geologically active region that hosts 70% of the world's volcanoes and earthquakes. This area is no stranger to volcanic eruptions and one of its most formidable landmarks. An active volcano in the Cascade Volcanic Arc poses a significant threat due to its potential for future dangers. Over the past 500,000 years, its eruptions have left behind extensive deposits of lava, lahar (volcanic mudflows), and pyroclastic flows. Nearby peaks indicate that its volcanic origins could date back 2.9 to 3 million years, making it one of the oldest and highest in the region, towering at about 16,000 feet (4,900 meters).

Over a million people live in areas that could be impacted by future volcanic activity, including hazards like mudflows, ashfall, and pyroclastic flows. Even without an eruption, it poses risks of lahars and landslides, which could have devastating consequences. For now, the cycles of nature continue under the watchful presence of this ominous mountain.

In a recent journey, they decided to drive from Greenwater, Washington, to Orting—a trip that would take around an hour before reaching Fluttershy’s house.