Lilies of the Field

Chapters

For I Tell You the Truth:
Not Even Celestia Can Boast...
That She is Arrayed Like These Two

For I Tell You the Truth:

The Lilies of the Field

Edited by the most ponylegged and industrious of editors, RazedRainbow

She’d always been impressed with Rainbow, really. She’d not always approved of Rainbow’s rash behavior, but she’d always found her friend’s brave and free spirit deeply fascinating. Rarity would never say so—it was hard to say so without seeming too forward, and a Lady avoided being too forward—but it was still true. It also helped that she’d always thought Rainbow was rather... attractive.

“I really am thankful for this, Rainbow Dash. You have no idea how fortunate it is that you wandered by!” Rarity almost sang the words. What had begun as a stressful project had turned into a perfect opportunity.

Rainbow shrugged. “I didn’t have anything to do today. Besides, this is for the Hegemon of Cloudsdale! Gotta stay true to home, y’know?”

Rainbow stood in the center of Rarity’s spacious studio on a short, wide pedestal. Around her, the designer had set mirrors so that while working from one angle she could keep the rest of the dress uniform in sight. As Rarity worked, she hummed softly. She reached out with her magic, finding materials and tools from the chaotic mess around her with ease.

Rarity marveled at how her friend had managed to be still for so long; this was hardly the kind of behavior she expected from her colorful friend. Rainbow’s compliance had been such a pick-me-up after her rather unpleasant encounter with the client who had commissioned this particular piece.

Rarity looked up and saw the glazed over look in Rainbow’s eyes and chuckled. “Please, dear, it’s perfectly fine to talk. I know you must be beyond bored, standing still like this.”

“Well… I ain’t gonna lie. I mean, this isn’t what I usually do for fun. It’s been kind of a long day.”

“Oh? Tell me about it... if you’d like. You must have been working hard on your flying, per usual. It’s been far too long since I watched you work on your stunts. I’ve just been shut up in here working on so many orders recently.”

Rainbow grinned wide. “I’m not really old enough to go in for the Trials, you know? Like, to get in the Wonderbolts, you have to go through a set of tests and races and stuff. It’s like a solid week of that kind of thing and it’s really intense.”

“But you have some time to work until you’re strong enough for it, right?”

“Oh yeah! I’ve got two years before I can try, and that’s plenty of time. I mean, think of all the Equestria-saving I’ll be doing, Rares. No way I’m not gonna be ready for a bunch of trials or whatever.”

Rarity continued smiling and thought about how nervous Rainbow had been before the Best Young Flyer competition. Rarity understood covering up anxiety with the mask of bravado—sometimes a Lady needed to keep her worry to herself.

“You will be marvelous, Rainbow. I have watched you fly before, after all, so I would know! Any new tricks, then?”

“Nah! Right now, I’m working on perfecting the ones I’ve got.” Rainbow was really warming up to her subject, and Rarity enjoyed the gleam of passion in her eyes. She looks cute when she’s excited.

She chuckled at herself. Oh Rarity, you remember your rule: no going after friends. Besides, you know for a fact that she’s quite definitely not playing for your team.

There was no rule about admiring them, however, and Rarity did so as she worked. Rainbow really was a beautiful pegasus. Her legs were shapely, fine, toned by work and dedication. As she considered how the uniform fit around Dash’s wings, she paused to admire. Wings were so interesting, so beautiful. She’d always secretly wanted them herself.

“How does it feel around your wings, Rainbow? It appears rather… snug, if I do say so myself.”

“Eh, it’s not terrible. I wouldn’t wanna fly in this yet, though. It’s gonna chafe, see? Step back a sec.”

Rarity obeyed wordlessly and watched as Rainbow Dash unfurled her wings. She was struck again at the majesty of the action—especially when Rainbow did it. It was an exciting moment, because it usually meant a chance to watch her take to the skies.

But enough of my wing envy. “I begin to see, I think.”

The material was tight around the base of Rainbow’s wings, not quite digging into her sides, but almost. With a sigh, she looked around for her measuring tape and did her best to collect her thoughts. Rainbow wasn’t exactly the same shape and size as the Commander who’d so carelessly commissioned her, but she was surprisingly similar. Both pegasi had that athletic build that she enjoyed working with so much, and Rainbow was only an inch shorter.

The changes would have to be made carefully, but they’d be small. She measured the base of Rainbow’s wings and compared it to the measurements she had taken of the client, and returned to humming again. Yes, this shan’t be hard. Progress, Rarity, sweet progress! She giggled to herself. We shall be done quite before the deadline.

“Rainbow, while I have you captive, I must ask: how are you and Thunderlane these days? The last time I managed to keep you still long enough to enjoy some tea you were singing paeans to his name.”

The silence that greeted her question gave her pause; she looked up to find Rainbow staring down at the ground.

She forgot her work for a moment. Quietly, she let the measuring tape rest over her neck and slowly walked around to stand in front of her friend. “Rainbow, dear? Did… Did I say something wrong? It’s not like you to…” She groped for words, cursing her own foolishness. I pride myself on my articulation, but when I need my words to serve me in my times of need…

“Well… we kind of broke up a few days ago. A week. I mean, I don’t—I’m not sure how to really talk about it.”

“You don’t need to if you don’t wish to. I don’t mean to press the matter, Rainbow.”

“Nah, it’s okay. I mean, seriously, who else would be better than you to talk to about it?” She smirked, and it warmed Rarity’s heart to see it. “I’m just not sure how to. Does that make sense?”

“Of course. Words are not infallible, darling. Would you like to take a break? I’ll need to do some work on the uniform anyhow, so go on and hop down.”

Rainbow, looking embarrassed, wiggled out of her fine hoofwork and she caught the dress uniform in the hold of her magic. She found a ponniequin that was bare and carefully placed the work in progress on it.

“Would you like some tea?”

“Uh… yeah, sure. That’d be alright, I guess.”

Rarity led her to the small study she kept in the back of the studio and then went back to the kitchen. She selected two tea bags and heated up a pitcher of water with her magic.

Fixing tea not only would help them relax; it also gave Rarity some time to gather her thoughts and plan her attack. Attack. I’m turning into Rainbow, with this pegasus language.

Thunderlane and Rainbow had broken up. She was fairly sure that it was Rainbow who had broken off their arrangement, or it was mutual. Elsewise, she suspected Rainbow would be a bit more resentful and a bit less confused. But why? I remember the last time Rainbow and I went out, just the two of us girls. She was talking about how fun that stallion was and how much she enjoyed his presence. It was a rather startling development.

One that she had not been aware of; that part of it was a little galling. Rarity prided herself on knowing the news around town. News, not gossip; a Lady did not indulge in such vulgarities as gossiping.

When she returned to Rainbow a short time later, the pegasus was lounging in one of Rarity’s comfortable chairs. Rarity floated her cup over to her and Rainbow plucked it out of midair.

Rarity let her friend begin without prompting. She simply waited with an inviting smile. Rainbow would talk when she was ready.

It was always interesting to her, dynamics between ponies. Get Rainbow out in the open, or steer the talk into areas like sports or flying, and Rainbow was top mare. She could talk about adventure and Daring Do and control the conversation the way that Applejack could rein in a stampede. But move into the realm of the heart and she retreated and became uncharacteristically passive.

It was strange, seeing Rainbow be so… un-Rainbow. “Yeah. Thunderlane.”

Rarity raised an eyebrow. “Yes, your former love interest.”

Rainbow shrugged and sipped at the tea. She winced; Rarity resisted the urge to roll her eyes. Rainbow always forgot that it was hot. The pegasus began again. “Yeah. Thunderlane… he’s not a bad stallion, Rares. He’s gonna make some lucky mare really happy one day. Gonna go have a whole litter of foals and be the funnest dad ever. But he just isn’t for me.”

“It’s no sin to lose romantic interest in a stallion or mare you’d prefer as just a friend, Rainbow. Sometimes we’re better off as friends and we try to make friendship something it’s not. We are merely ponies, not angels. Was the split… unpleasant?”

“Well… not really. I mean, it wasn’t fun. He was pretty bummed, and I felt like a jerk. I’m a pretty crappy element of loyalty sometimes.”

“Nonsense. It would be worse of you to lead him on, Rainbow.”

“Yeah, you’re right. He just looked so sad. I’m not really good at all this feelings stuff, Rares, and everypony knows it. But it’s not like I don’t have ‘em. He looked like I kicked his puppy or something. But I asked if it was okay to still be friends, and he said it would be.”

“It would be sad to lose a friend, Rainbow. But he seems agreeable, if not pleased—like you said. I’m sure with his energy and charm, our good Thunderlane will have caught the eye of some other nice mare before long. I wouldn’t fret over him. The best you can do now is to give him some space and be a good companion just like you were before, I would think.”

“It was kind of awkward, working on that thunderstorm yesterday. But we still had fun and it wasn’t weird enough to be unbearable, y’know? So, I guess you’re right.”

This time, Rainbow blew on the hot liquid before taking another sip. Rarity smiled softly, and regretted that situations like this weren’t more common. It’s a shame that it takes love troubles to have this. It’s nice.

Rainbow broke into her thoughts. “I don’t really know if I lost interest as much as I was just… I dunno, trying to avoid something. Thunderlane’s a friend and he’s a fun colt, and I figured he could get my mind off of… somepony.”

Rarity’s ears perked up. Like a good huntress, she jumped in quick before the unsure Rainbow could take it back.

“Another love draws you away? I must know!”

“Er, hold on. I can’t just tell you. It’s like, a secret!” Those rose eyes widened and she looked like a filly caught out in the halls after bedtime.

Rarity huffed and flicked her mane out of her eyes. “Yes, yes, but you simply must fill me in, darling! What stallion’s caught your eye? Do I know him?”

Rainbow fidgeted. She wouldn’t meet Rarity’s eager gaze at all.

“Oh, don’t be so coy!” This was just too much. She simply had to know. Quickly, she went down the list of available stallions in town.

“I’ll tell you eventually. Just let it be secret right now? I’m not sure yet. I have a lot of thinkin’ to do about it.”

“Oh, alright,” Rarity replied, her ears drooping.

“Ah, cheer up Rares,” Rainbow admonished with another sip. “Can’t be on top of every little secret in Ponyville.”

She huffed with the proper disdain that deserved. “A lady doesn’t go digging for secrets in every little corner, Rainbow, despite what you think.”

“If you say so,” the pegasus said with a triumphant smile. She’d derailed the interrogation; she’d won. Rarity conceded that, and moved the conversation on.

But she still really wanted to know.

***

“I can’t say I’m as surprised as you seem to be, Rarity,” Twilight said as she shelved the last of the returns.

“And that is part of what bothers me, Twilight! Celestia as my witness, I swore they were the perfect match. An adventurous filly for a mischievous colt. How could I be so dreadfully off the mark?” Rarity whined, shaking her head.

Twilight looked over her hoofwork and spoke with in a neutral tone. “Rarity, even I know that romance is a bit more complex than archery.”

Rarity bristled at that, but calmed herself. “Yes, well,” she began, but couldn't find anything else to say. She watched the librarian gaze about her domain of books with a contented smile and was reminded of her own boutique. I wonder if Rainbow has that little smile, up in her own kingdom of clouds and storms?

She banished the thought. Why was Rainbow on her mind? It had to be the news of her breakup with Thunderlane, and her own surprise.

Yet she knew she’d been thinking about Rainbow flying for a while now, imagining her with a growing halo of color as she sped after her falling friend. It had taken on a strange significance for her, that memory of the Best Young Flyers Competition.

Twilight turned her gaze back to Rarity, and the smile widened into one of friendliness. “Well, I’m done! Let’s head out.”

Smiling, Rarity waited until her friend had trotted over, and they left out the library’s front door.

Outside, Rarity did her best to avoid muddy puddles. It was not the most pleasant of days in Ponyville, but she’d made plans with her friends before being informed of the weather schedule, and she would not renege on a promise.

“I do wish that I knew about these dreadful storms a little earlier. I don’t usually know until the day before, and it is quite inconvenient.”

Twilight giggled at her brave efforts to avoid the muck of the streets. “It’ll all be gone soon. But, how do you not know? I mean, there’s schedules in Town Hall—everypony knows that. Rainbow has to file plans every month so that we can plan events and official business.”

“Oh. Well, the Boutique is such a busy place; it just slips my mind, I suppose. I asked Rainbow to keep me up to speed and she’s been a dear to warn me. Well, she’s tried to. She’s never forgotten.”

“Something tells me that she’s not exactly punctual.”

“Well, we all have our own struggles. Rainbow’s just happens to be punctuality. And, perhaps, neatness.”

Twilight laughed at this. “I think you just want Rainbow hanging around. She is sort of hard to keep still. Not as bad as Pinkie…”

“Darling, one does not try to make plans with Pinkie. One simply… is, and Pinkie will come.”

They walked into the café’s grove of tables, still laughing over that. A friendly young unicorn stallion greeted them and offered them seats. Rarity blessed him with a gracious smile as he magically pulled the chair out for her, and he left with a goofy smile.

“Charm, my dear Twilight, is surprisingly powerful,” she said, smiling softly.

Twilight watched the waiter walk off, seemingly in thought. “I don’t always understand what you do. I mean, I get flirting, but you aren’t interested in that colt at all. Unless you’ve changed since I saw you last.”

“No, I haven’t. How shall I explain?” She paused and looked up at the sky. A cloud was wandering by, and she wondered if Rainbow was there sleeping.

“Ponies like to feel special, Twilight. Don’t you live for praise from Princess Celestia, to some extent? We all long for someone to take notice of us. Built for it, even. I may not be interested in him, but I can appreciate a gentlecolt when I find one.”

Twilight hummed, interested, and thought about it.

Rarity took a brief look around her at the other tables while Twilight was distracted. Around them, couples and small parties chatted over coffee and lunch. She recognized most of them, but none who would be too interested in Rainbow’s love life.

Emboldened, she turned her attention back to Twilight. She leaned in, and her voice took on a conspirator’s low and urgent whisper.

“Now, Twilight. We really mustn’t avoid the subject at hoof.”

“Er... subject? You kinda lost me.”

“Twilight, don’t be so coy! Rainbow, obviously. The newest... developments, as it were.”

Twilight sighed. “Rarity, I’m not sure what I can tell you! I mean, it’s not like it’s really our business who Rainbow likes, you know?”

“Of course it’s our business, Twilight! We’re her friends! If we don’t look out for our poor, blind Rainbow Dash’s heart, who will? Besides, it simply will not leave me alone. Who could it be?”

Twilight fidgeted, looking at the table. Oh, Twilight, you simply must learn to talk about these sorts of things with candor! “Honestly, Twilight, I can’t think of anyone who fits the bill. Rainbow usually prefers pegasi, and I just cannot see her with any of the fine young winged colts of our town.”

“It doesn’t have to be a pegasus, you know,” Twilight said, hesitantly. Rarity smiled. I have her now. Oh Twilight, you simply cannot ignore fallacious logic. You’re far too easy.

“Maybe, maybe. Anything is possible, my father used to say. But who else could it be? Have you heard anything about it?”

Twilight’s ears drooped. “Well... kind of?”

“But Twilight! Forgive me, dear, but how did you learn of this before I did? I am so behind on the news around town and among my friends, and it is quite disconcerting!”

“It’s not that surprising, really. Rainbow wanted to keep it low-key to spare his feelings. So she told me about her new crush and—”

“So, you do know the mystery stallion’s identity!” She turned on the petulent voice and hit Twilight with a broadside of whining. “But I am the oldest. The most experienced in the travails and trials of love! Oh, how could Rainbow—young, brave, impetuous Rainbow—not come to me? Surely she would’ve known how excited I would be to share her secret!”

Rarity was a drama queen. She knew this about herself, and she’d admitted it aloud to her friends. It was simply a part of her nature, to be dramatic. This, however, was not simply her natural tendency for dramatic expression: this was “hamming it up” as Twilight was fond of saying. A Lady honed all the tools available to her, after all.

Twilight squirmed.Oh, Twilight, you are the worst at secret keeping! Just surrender to me, it shan’t be much longer now before you crack.

“Well... I mean... I don’t know. She came looking for a book and we just ended up chatting. It was a slow day, and I asked her how things were going and she just kind of unloaded the whole situation on me. She needed a sympathetic ear, and maybe she figured that I was convenient. I’m sure she would’ve come to you if I hadn’t have asked her.”

A sidestep. Twilight, you’re learning the fine art of evasion—I’ve taught you something after all in this year or two. “I suppose that you’re right,” she said, maintaining her act. “But it so grieves the heart that I had the opportunity to guide the youngest of us along the highway of love and quite lost it.”

Twilight—poor, oblivious Twilight—bought it and looked conflicted. Rarity could taste victory like sweet milk and honey, right in front of her. It was so close!

“I’m sure... I mean, it’s not like she meant to leave you out of the loop. This second pony of hers, she’s liked for a while. She just wasn’t sure, you know, and then it just became so obvious and...” Twilight was beginning to ramble, always a sign that she was on the retreat.

“Of course, you are correct, my dear Twilight. I simply must learn to control myself... though a thought occurs to me.”

“It does?”

Rarity almost felt guilty. She’d always been skilled at getting the news even from those who didn’t want to share it. It wasn’t the most ethical of things, but even a Lady had to get her hooves dirty every now and then. Rainbow needs guidance that I can provide! Especially if I’m right. She’d been mulling it over since Rainbow had left the day before.

She risked, and spoke her guess. “I begin to wonder if perhaps the stallion she has her eyes on is actually... a mare.”

Twilight’s eye twitched and she seemed to go rigid. Rarity’s heart beat faster, and she struggled to calm herself. Rarity, cease this at once! That other... thought was just a hunch. The likelihood of such a thing!

But the idea lingered.

“Well...” Twilight, caught off guard by her show and then flanked by her question, struggled to say something to cover up her mistake. For her part, Rarity couldn’t help but daydream of cerulean wings and feel rather foolish for doing so.

Twilight groaned. “It’s a miracle that Pinkie isn’t here to get on to me about this. Yes, you’re right. Don’t tell her I told you, okay? She really wanted me not to let it out before she worked out how she felt.”

“Twilight, darling, your secrets are always safe with me.” Twilight grimaced at this, and Rarity moved along. “I don’t suppose I could extract from you the name of the mare blessed by the colorful gaze of Rainbow Dash?”

This was her element. Even though she knew Twilight wouldn’t reveal this last bit by the set of her jaw, she was still in her element. Rarity lived for romance, and the spice of her life was juicy tidings such as this. She was in heaven.

Part of her wondered if heaven might not include a certain pegasus, now. She tried her best to dismiss that.

“You know I can’t tell you that. Please don’t ask me; we both know I’m not good at keeping secrets.” Twilight looked a bit panicked. Rarity decided to let her be.

“Shh, calm. I think that nice stallion’s bringing out drinks as we speak. I’ll leave off about Rainbow...” She trailed off as the waiter returned, and gave him another pleasant smile.

She kept her promise, but her mind never left Rainbow. She had narrowed it down to a mare here in town, and she had a hunch it wasn’t Dash’s usual type.

The idea that the mystery mare was herself refused to be dismissed. At every turn, it waited somewhere in the background. As she and Twilight talked of other things, it was there. As Rarity convinced Twilight that it was alright to let the fashionista pay, she was thinking of Rainbow. When they went their separate ways, the unforeseen possibilities of Rainbow Dash’s crush sat on her shoulders and weighed her down as she walked along the street back to the Boutique.

The rational part of her denied the possibility that Rainbow’s interest lay with her. They were too dissimilar: she was no athlete, and not up for the pranking fun that Rainbow so enjoyed. Do we share any interests at all? I mean, are we compatible at all? Rainbow and I move in such different directions, after all. Could such a thing last?

But of course, was that really fair? She and Rainbow got along rather well. Rainbow, for all of her brashness, could be calm and collected when she wanted to be. Rarity, for her part, could be enthusiastic and energetic when the situation warranted, and could appreciate stunts and the kinds of excitement that Rainbow caused.

She entered and closed the door behind her, flipping the sign from “closed” to “open.” But then she paused, staring at it, not really interested in but rather struck by a passing thought.

Rainbow had seemed so uncomfortable. It was true that she didn’t like discussing things like romance usually, but the way she’d avoided eye contact entirely and fidgeted under her interrogation and her gaze...

Rarity groaned and turned away from the door. “Why am I so worked up over this... foolishness!”

Her words simply came back to her from the walls of the boutique’s circular showroom.

She whirled back around and grabbed the “open” sign with her magic and changed it back to “closed” again. There was no way she could focus on helping customers like this.

She wandered the store restlessly, looking at her creations in a vain effort to get her mind off of Rainbow. Glad that Sweetie was with their parents, she thought aloud.

“Why Rainbow? I mean, yes, she’s quite the attractive mare. But Rainbow, Rarity? Short of Applejack, you couldn’t have picked a mare less like you! She’s... messy, rough! She’s not about to slow down for someone who can’t fly, is she?”

She moved along the walls, past dresses she’d made months ago, and came to a mirror. She paused and caught a glimpse of her rather distraught reflection. It stayed her progress, and she couldn’t help but watch.

That was an unfair assessment of things, she admitted as she stared at her frowning reflection. Rainbow Dash, the most loyal of ponies, wouldn’t just “leave her behind” because she couldn’t fly. She was looking for excuses, if that was the best argument she could muster.

Feeling foolish, she spoke again into the stillness. “Perhaps... part of me is afraid.”

There you go, she could almost hear her reflection say, and she grimaced and trotted briskly away from the mirror.

Rainbow Dash was a challenge. A soul so different from her own. Since her youth, all of Rarity’s many forays into love had been rather safe affairs. As a filly on the verge of adulthood, she’d chosen the colts who were absolutely under her spell. As a young mare out to show the world what she could do, she’d chosen younger partners who were in awe of her youthful charisma and air of experience.

But Rainbow was her equal. Perhaps, in some things, even her better. It scared her.

But it was so alluring.

“It won’t be me,” she hissed as she headed back to her work room. Surely she had something to work on. Anything would do, really. “It won’t be me she’s in love with. Look at me! ‘In love’ like this is some sort of cheap romance novel! I’m the kind of mare that buys those things, and she’s the kind who’d laugh at me for it!”

Her ponniequins watched her in silence, and it made her angry. She tried to take deep breaths to calm herself. A Lady does not lose her temper. Not in such an embarrassing way.

It just... it hurt. She had to be honest to herself now—it was safe to be so here, where she was alone. It wasn’t a question of falling in love with Dash. No, she’d begun that already. She’d made up the flimsiest excuses to see the smirking pegasus, and it had been a lonely week when Rainbow hadn’t dropped by. Her joy at Rainbow agreeing to help model had been more about seeing Rainbow than having a perfect model for the commission. She’d missed her favorite flyer.

It was a hard thing to admit to herself. I always thought I’d find some prince... or some lady of refinement, who’d understand me. Somepony who was, well, like me. Somepony that could appreciate the delicate parts of life, the beautiful parts that demand silence and awe. There’s nothing silent or reverent about Rainbow Dash. What could there be between us in the long run?

She came at last to her latest creation: the dress uniform for the Hegemon of Cloudsdale. It was a fine and beautiful thing, in its own martial, stern way. Her mind’s eye painted Rainbow’s cerulean coat and signature mane onto the ponniequin, and she saw Rainbow waiting with surprising patience.

“I would like to try, Rainbow, I really would,” she said softly as she sat before the uniform. The memory of Rainbow’s fitting lingered, but it was a good memory and she savored it. “You would understand if you were me, I know you would. Every time, I give of myself and it pains me greatly. I’m afraid even with all your loyalty, you’ll still lose interest in me. They always realize I’m not perfect and wander off when I don’t leave myself before they can.”

Loyalty. The elements had picked them for a reason, after all, and Rarity had realized that Rainbow’s loyalty was truly part of the deepest core of her being. She clung when others fell away, even when she didn’t want to. Rainbow could be petulant and unhappy about being dragged along, but she would never abandon a friend. Rarity had always admired that in her. If she was honest with herself, it was part of what made her so attractive as a mate. Perhaps, finally, there was a loyal pony who would stand by her and be a permanent fixture in her life instead of a short fling or a brightly burning fuse.

The silence, which had become her opponent in this debate, offered up a rebuttal at last.

Loyalty is Generosity militant and personal.

It was the uniform, of course, that planted the idea into her head, but it was profound enough to give her pause. She’d never really thought about the similarities between them along those lines. She’d always focused on the differences in temperament and interests, and given up far too easily on finding places where they met.

Loyalty. She meditated on the word. She savored it—for in a very real way, it was like meditating on Rainbow herself. They both gave of themselves, and they both sought a kind of love and attention from others. Who better to understand that in Rainbow than Rarity herself? Who could appreciate her firm strength like young and inexperienced Rainbow?

She stood up and stretched. Thoughts swirled around in her heads as if stirred in a pot. Yes, there was much to think about before Rainbow’s follow up fitting. Rarity smiled wryly. Things to be done as well. I still have other work to do, after all. I cannot let myself over to histrionics forever.

Mumbling about decorum, she searched with her magic for a brush and summoned it to her. “All of this fuss... it’s ruining my mane!” she grumbled into the silence as she rebuilt her composure.

The brush’s rough bristles were calming, as always. The confusion and emotion began to drain away, and she began to plan. This was all conjecture, after all. She’d need more proof that it was really her that Rainbow loved. And proof was a thing she could manage; she was sure of it. She grinned, feeling caught up in the delightful daydreams that swarmed about her.

A Lady always has her ways of knowing!

Author's Note

This story is set in what I call the "Songverse" a group of stories all in the same universe revolving mostly around Rarity and Dash. You don't need to have read any of the others... especially because this is the first one!

Not Even Celestia Can Boast...

It was perhaps not very surprising that the House of Belle had included famous generals in the chaotic days of Equestria’s youth. Rarity Belle, that old house’s latest scion, waited with her ledger in amorous ambush. Rainbow was on her way.

Rarity thought of love in terms of two different languages: music and struggle. She thought they were both relevant. Love was like dance because it involved harmony. You had to dance in time or things became disorienting. It involved unity of purpose and gaze, looking for and at the same things. It was a skill you worked at, and whatever your natural talents might be, no one rose above their partner too far.

She guessed it was struggle because it was all but impossible to know another pony’s mind. She could only guess, here at the beginning, what was beyond those rose colored eyes. The knowledge of another pony’s intentions—now she loves me, now she doesn’t—was a city to be taken by force, or at least coaxed towards its inevitable surrender.

It was the second and last fitting she would need Rainbow to help with, and it was a shame to lose her close companionship. She hoped, secretly and silently, that it would not be an end. If all went well, it would perhaps be a beginning. But she didn’t know for sure. Her evidence was fleeting and circumstantial.

And perhaps invented.

She scowled at the numbers, checking her math again with a sigh.

For all of her dramatic inner posturing, her plan wasn’t really that complicated. If anything, she’d been pushed to a last resort by her friends.

Twilight hadn’t been the only one with sealed lips. Pinkie, of course, would keep the secret until she died—and maybe afterwards. Fluttershy had all but fled. Applejack had refused to talk about it at all. Rainbow herself grew nervous, but that didn’t automatically mean what Rarity hoped it did. In the end, she had only her own wishes and hunches to go on.

It wasn’t a lot, but a Lady had to make do with that she had. It did help that she had a trump card of sorts... but she doubted how effective it would be.

Anyway, she’ll be here in a few minutes.

But what if Rainbow was busy? What if Rarity couldn’t get it out of her? What if...

She unclicked her pen, laid it down in the book, and closed it.

Rarity had never been this way before about any of the other mares she’d fallen for or who had fallen for her. There’d hadn’t been that many of course, but enough to know that what she felt about Rainbow was unique. And what did she think about Rainbow?

That she was strong. Rarity appreciated that, how strong she was. She was not unbreakable, no—nopony was—but she had the kind of backbone Rarity had always looked for in a potential mate. Or a friend, really. Anypony. She knew herself. She knew how demanding she could be, and how her nature proved wearisome sometimes. But she also knew that Rainbow was not one to crumble under pressure. Rainbow, if she could, tried to lift weight instead of shirking it. If it mattered, she was your mare.

And then she smiled. Doesn’t hurt that she’s beautiful. With that mane, she’s a designer’s dream. Any color scheme can work. Well, no, not any. Most. Yes, most.

The point was that she was an equal, she was beautiful, and she’d grown up a lot since they first met. Rarity was enthralled, and it was a remarkable experience to finally be the one chasing.

Rainbow touched down outside, and Rarity caught a glance of her out the window. She smiled, and felt her heart flutter. It was time. She’d know the truth at last! But, more importantly, she’d be able to talk with Rainbow again.

She fidgeted with unladylike excitement as Rainbow walked to the Boutique’s door and opened it.

“Welcome! How have you been, Rainbow?”

“Good, I guess.” Rainbow gave her a lopsided grin that Rarity loved. “I’ve been kinda busy. But, I think my head’s a lot clearer then the last time I saw ya.”

“Good,” she replied, not sure whether it was good news for her or not. But if Rainbow felt better, it was good news in the end, she supposed. “Come this way, would you, dear? I’d like to show you what I’ve done before we get this on you. I think you’ll really like it.”

Do I sound too excited? I can’t tell. Don’t worry, Rarity, she no doubt believes any abundant enthusiasm to be about the uniform.

Not that she wasn’t excited about her work. This had been commissioned by an important pony, after all! A mildly unpleasant important pony, yes, but one of high standing nevertheless. It wasn’t her normal fare by any means, as she was used to flowing dresses, but it had been a delightful challenge.

They came into her wide and messy studio. Grandly, she brought the ponniequin forward for Rainbow to see.

“Not bad, Rares! I like it.”

Rarity blushed. Praise from Rainbow, especially about this, was all high praise to her. “Thank you. Would you like to try it on now?”

“Sure.”

Rarity undid the buttons and floated the dress uniform over to Rainbow with her magic. It took only a moment for Dash to put it on. She strutted about, and Rarity’s blush refused to leave completely. She really was beautiful—in a way entirely different from her other loves and crushes. Rainbow was beautiful in the way that a fine statue or a thunderstorm was beautiful. It was a sort of fierce beauty. At the moment, she was showing off her fine legs, and Rarity found them exquisitely tight and sculpted.

“Feels good! It doesn’t pull as much on the wings... but let me try with them stretched out.”

“Well, come back here and do so, please. I still have to make sure it’s to my own specifications. I did do much of this work late at night.”

Rainbow trotted over, and then flared her wings out. Rarity had to admit that she was lovelier still, her graceful wings ready for action. She could almost imagine Rainbow about to take off, her muscles toned and that look of fearless joy in her eyes.

“How does that feel?” She murmured, deep in thought as she circled Rainbow.

“Hm... Good, I think. I think I need to fly in it eventually.”

“Of course,” she said absentmindedly, as she did her best to focus her attention on her work. Keeping it away from Rainbow herself was becoming difficult, to say the least.

The real work was done quickly, with only light conversation between them. Rarity didn’t bring up Rainbow’s romantic life at all, asking her instead about her work with the weather team. Eventually, she led Rainbow back around the Boutique so that she could test the uniform’s comfort while flying.

“Forgive my ignorance, dear, but what occasion is this for? I’m afraid I don’t know much about my client or her importance. All I know is that she is, indeed, important.”

“The Hegemon? She’s like... kind of like the mayor,” Dash explained as she stretched her wings out. “The Hegemon used to be like the king or queen or something, back before the tribes got together. A long, long time ago Cloudsdale was kind of... not friends with Neighvarro and Las Pegasus.

“See, when they did get together and put aside their differences, they still felt like they needed to one-up each other. So every year, at the festival to celebrate the Unification, they try to outdress and outfly each other on the parade grounds. It’s silly, but it was better than killin’ each other, you know?”

“I quite agree. So, this will be... rather public then? I’m honored.”

Rainbow grinned, and tensed. “She’s going to be in top form with this thing, Rarity.”

And then she was off, up into the air. Rarity watched her with a wide grin as she orbited the Boutique in a lazy circle before speeding up and doing a flip right over Rarity’s head.

What was it like for her, up there? Rarity had flown on her own wings once, but it had not been like that. She’d not really dared to do the kinds of things Rainbow did on an everyday basis.

But watching her... it was breathtaking. Rarity fooled herself quite willingly into believing that this was her own private show, and that Rainbow was doing this for her, to impress her. And she was, indeed, impressed. Her wings beating the air in a strong cadence, her eyes flashing, her mane blown back by the wind she riled up by her flight.

She landed with a prideful smirk. “Think we’re golden, Rares.”

“That we are,” she breathed, and then straightened. “Yes. That’ll do, Rainbow. You’ve been a fine helper. Come back inside?”

In the Boutique, Rarity put away the uniform with pride and a smile. Now that it was out of the way, she could turn her attention to more important matters.

Rarity, in typical form, offered tea and company. Rainbow, also in typical form, took any opportunity for free food. So the dance began.

It helped to think of it as a dance or game. It made the butterflies in Rarity’s stomach more manageable and took her mind off of the seriousness of it. She thought it was fitting; Rainbow led and she took cues, Rarity moved a pawn and Rainbow moved out a knight.

As she sipped at her tea, she searched Rainbow for signs of... well, to be honest, she wasn’t sure. Something. Anything different about her.

But Rainbow seemed rather normal. Happier than before, but that was the only thing different.

Finally, Rarity realized she’d been left with no choice. Rainbow gave nothing away. The nervous shifting was gone, all the cues that had first sparked her wild hopes absent. She’d simply have to be direct.

“So, Rainbow. Any progress on the romantic front?”

A pause, and then: “Whatcha mean?”

“Why, your lovely mare of choice, of course!”

“Who said it was a mare?”

“My memory may betray me, but I seem to remember that you may or may not have admitted to such. Perhaps indirectly, yes, but still.”

Rainbow Dash sighed. “Yeah, I guess. You’re right. Honestly, I’ve decided she needs to know.”

“And? Dear, you simply must tell me the identity of this mare of mystery! Perhaps I can help you.”

But Rainbow shook her head. “No, not yet. If she says no... I don’t want it to be a big deal.”

“That first impression is very important, Rainbow. Please, I simply must help you. It’s killing me not to know.”

Rainbow smiled, and it was perhaps one of the most infuriatingly enigmatic smiles Rarity had ever seen. That would be like her, to enjoy any little advantage she got! So smug about her secret!

Of course... it didn’t stop Rarity from wanting to know.

“Well... if she spurns you, will you at least tell me?”

Rainbow nodded. “I think you’ll know, yeah.”

You’re just playing with me now. Of course, that wasn’t conclusive either. Rainbow would play with any interest she showed no matter what. Just another thing she could twist into evidence for Rainbow’s affections for her, but knew she shouldn’t. Not yet.

“Well... hm. At least tell me a little about her. Come now. Is she cute? Long, pretty mane?”

Rainbow shrugged. “I know you’re just trying to get the answer outta me, Rares. But... ah, I’ll play along. Yeah, she’s pretty. Long mane, pretty eyes... she’s nice, when she wants to be.” She chuckled. “Brave, too, when she needs to be, which you know I like. She’s a unicorn, but not an egghead type like Twilight.”

“Ah. An athletic unicorn?”

“I’m not that predictable, you know. I’m not, right?”

“Well...” Rarity smiled, and pretended to think, looking up at the ceiling.

Rainbow snorted and eyed the little pastry plate Rarity had baited her with.

“Anyhow, Rares, she isn’t. She’s probably the girliest girl I coulda picked. Well, not the girliest girl. I don’t know, don’t wanna give you the wrong impression. I know you’re guessing.” She couldn’t help but laugh at the dismay on Rarity’s face.

Though maybe she misunderstood it. Don’t wanna give you the wrong impression. What could that mean?

“I know you want to know, Rares. I’d love to tell you... but you’d want to help, you know? You’d mean well, but I just wanna do this myself. I need some space to work, you know?”

“I understand, Rainbow... as much as I’m not pleased about it. But it’s your right.”

“Well... would you at least receive a gift?”

“What kind?” Rainbow looked interested, but ready to say no.

Rarity played her trump card, with somewhat restrained enthusiasm. “I have passes to the Unification Ball, actually. I was wondering if you might like two. You could use it as a perfect opportunity to confess your feelings!”

Rainbow simply gaped at her. “How? Not that I’ve ever tried, you know, or thought about it... but those are hard to get. Really hard. Like, unless you’re a really important pony, you aren’t getting more than one, if any.”

Rarity shrugged. It was her turn to be smug as she said, “They’re part of my payment. The Hegemon offered them somewhat offhoof and I accepted them on a whim. She gave me four, and I figured I could bring some of the girls with me. I think this might be a worthy cause.”

Rainbow seemed lost in thought, and Rarity waited for her answer.

Finally, she grinned and met Rarity’s eyes again. “You know... yeah. Yeah, I like that plan. I think I might just take those.”

“Well, you’ll have to wait a bit. I haven’t got them yet. The Hegemon will be by later to pick up her uniform... Rainbow. I can make you a lovely—”

“Was just about to ask you, actually. Would you make me a dress, Rarity? A nice one, good enough for a ball and all that kinda stuff.”

Rarity forgot all about her suspicions and reached over the table to wrap Rainbow in an awkward and rather unladylike embrace. In response to Rainbow’s surprised sputtering, she had only one thing to say.

“Do you have any idea, Rainbow Dash, how long I have been waiting for you to ask me for a dress for yourself without me having to make you? Like, one that you like?”

“Er... Rarity? Could you... I mean, this is really nice and all, but...”

“Rainbow Dash wants a dress! Oh, thank you Celestia! A real dress! All my dreams are coming true!”

She could already see it now, Rainbow Dash’s exasperated groan aside. Yes, it would be wonderful. A beautiful dress for a beautiful mare... and perhaps she’d be seeing it again, up close, at the Unification Ball.

While I breathe, I hope!

Author's Note

I am so, so, so, so sorry that this is late. I'm so sorry it's short.

Thank you for your patience. I'm honored to have you attention.

Sorry...

That She is Arrayed Like These Two

Rarity made plans. It was simply part of what she did, part of who she was. As she had written once as a filly on her long list of maxims—now hidden away quite well—a lady did nothing without forethought. So she calculated and plotted. She controlled herself and to an extent her environment. Grace, she told Sweetie regularly, and poise define a mare. You must master yourself, and you will master your circumstance!

She was intentional. She was efficient.

Except when she asked Rainbow Dash far too many futile questions, gave her tickets to go to the ball with some other mare, and got herself all worked up over the mare of her dreams.

Rarity laid on her bed in the dark, feeling like an idiot.

The Unification Ball was just around the corner, and she had nothing. Well, yes, she had her own dress and Rainbow’s made, but besides that? An ensemble without its finest and most central piece was altogether useless, Rarity knew that quite well. And what was missing?

Why an invitation to a rather special occasion from her favorite pegasus, of course. Of course.

She groaned, hugging one of her rather silly large pillows to her and rolling around her bed. Melodramatic, yes, but it was a channel for her despondency. But it could only appease her for so long. Eventually, she lay still on the bed, staring at her ceiling, though she couldn’t see it.

Rainbow had been over to direct her in making alterations several times since the last visit. Each time, Rarity would sail around the discussion of Rainbow’s ladylove. Rarity didn’t ask about the two invitations that she had given Rainbow. She didn’t even dare to mention the ball, really. She just focused on the dress. Making Rainbow happy. Things she could actually manage. One of those things, apparently, was being the center of Rainbow’s attention.

“Was it something I said?” she asked the ceiling in futility. She tried again. “Maybe... maybe she’s planning some great to-do. A surprise... oh, Rarity, be reasonable. Rainbow Dash is not about to plan some sort of silly reveal. You confuse yourself with...”

She didn’t feel like talking anymore.

There were no tears, but rather an ocean of sighs. As much as she would loved to indulge herself in a good, solid, dramatic cry... there was simply far too much to be done. She had last corrections to make, after all. Rainbow would be picking her dress up.

Rainbow. Why Rainbow? Of all ponies, she wondered as she brushed a stray strand of mane out of her face, why this one particular pony?

It was just a crush, she supposed. Every mare and filly had them. They were universal. She would simply have to accept the fact that it was a transient feeling, and inconstant. In fact, perhaps that was for the best.

Though she would miss, perhaps, the chance for company. Rainbow was a fine companion.

Rarity rolled out of bed, landing on all four hooves. “That is quite enough of that! Come, Rarity! Your work awaits you!” she declared firmly. It would have worked marvelously, except that her right hindleg had fallen asleep and would not cooperate. She fell back on her flank with a rather unladylike “Oomph!” and the cycle of self-deprecation began again.

***

By the time Rainbow walked in her door, Rarity was feeling better.

Not necessarily over it, of course. Simply better. It was a matter of temporary feelings, the background pleasure that hummed beneath her work, the distraction of adjusting her glasses and simply taking in her complete dress.

And as such, it was rather easily shattered. She trotted back up to the front of the store to meet her newest customer, and saw those rose eyes and her heart skipped a beat.

“Heya, Rares. Just picking up my dress,” Rainbow said, grinning.

“I... oh, yes. Right. Right this way,” Rarity replied, and hated how her voice sounded. It was, apparently, one thing to accept defeat intellectually and another to accept it emotionally. Ah, but I betray myself, like in all my books, she thought with sigh. The heart is a fickle thing.

She would simply have to focus. To get Rainbow back to the fitting room, give her the dress, and push her out the door! Yes, that would be the plan. Quick. Simple. Impossible.

Conversation. She craved it. Rarity had seen so much of Rainbow in the last two weeks that it had perhaps spoiled her. She wanted to ask about anything. Flying, weather work, even Rainbow’s date for the... yes. I would even talk about that, wouldn’t I? Just to hear your voice. Just to keep you here with me. I don’t understand this, Rainbow.

But the walk to the ponniequin with Rainbow’s dress was a short one, and Rarity couldn’t muster any words, though she wanted to fill the silence.

“Well... your dress, dear,” she said slowly, gesturing with a hoof. “Of course, there is still a little bit of time for revisions and corrections and such, but—”

“I like it,” Rainbow said, her voice quiet.

“—we can... oh. You do? I do fear I’ve done you an injustice. The way it rides, and—”

But Rainbow was shaking her head. “No, no I like it. A lot. It’s... uh,” she ran a hoof through her mane, as if suddenly flustered. “It’s beautiful. Wow.” She said it as if the word was a foreign one, like it tasted oddly as it rolled off her tongue. Rainbow stared at the dress, her mouth curling into a grin.

Rarity felt warm, attaching herself to that word. Beautiful. She graced Rainbow with a brilliant smile. “Thank you! Oh, that’s kind of you, Rainbow Dash.”

“Eh, it’s nothing. I mean, it’s true and stuff,” Rainbow said, looking away before meeting her eyes again. “It’s great. May I try it on?”

“Oh. Of course, yes, I wasn’t thinking,” Rarity said swiftly.

Rarity helped her into the dress, her eyes and mind wandering. A beautiful dress. I never thought I would hear you say that, Rainbow Dash. A beautiful dress for a beautiful mare.

“Still to your liking?” she asked.

“Mhm!” Rainbow nodded, smiling softly down at herself. “Don’t tell a soul?”

“Hm?”

“Dresses. I like them a lot, I mean I wouldn’t tell anypony that usually, but this isn’t exactly... y’know. Hey, don’t look at me like that!” she flushed crimson and looked away. Rarity tried to stop gaping at her. “I’m allowed to be all girly if I want to!”

“Oh, far be it from me to say that! I welcome such things,” Rarity said with a chuckle. “No, I’m simply surprised, pleasantly so.”

Rainbow looked down at her hooves, but smiled. “Does it look good?”

Rarity stepped back and took in the whole sight. “Absolutely. A beautiful dress for a beautiful mare, Rainbow. You look absolutely ravishing.”

Which caused Rainbow to flush still more. Rarity suddenly felt awkward. Did I say too much? I only meant to be honest.

“Thanks,” Dash mumbled, smiling down at the ground.

“It’s only the truth, darling,” Rarity managed, and then she felt her curiosity bubbling up. They were in this awkward moment already, why not ask what she wanted to know? “Do you know who you’re taking?”

Rainbow glanced up sharply, blinking. “Wait, what?”

“To the ball. Do you know... I mean, of course you know who you want to ask, I beg your pardon. But have you asked her yet? Am I prying? Oh dear, I don’t mean to, I’m just dying to know.”

Rainbow froze for a moment, and then her ears flattened against her head. “I... well, I mean...”

Rarity saw Rainbow’s eyes shift from place to place, as if looking for an escape route or avoiding the object of some confession, and her heart raced. Was this it? Was this the moment when Rainbow would speak those words? Was this the reveal, the ultimate confession of her romantic interest? Oh! I had thought that the books were exaggerated.

“Yeah.”

“I... don’t understand. Come again?”

“I mean, yeah, I asked her,” Rainbow said, the words rushing out of her.

“Oh,” Rarity said softly. “Who?”

Rainbow stared at her, eyes wide. Rarity couldn’t muster up any clever observations as to why.

“Well... I mean, I want it to be a secret and stuff...”

“Oh, that’s alright,”

She felt as if someone had hollowed her heart out. She felt cold and small. This is it. My final proof. Why does it feel like this?

Rainbow was looking at her strangely, and Rarity tried to recover. “Yes, I’m sorry. I’m a bit off my game today, I must apologize. It’s just been a bit stressful.”

“Oh... if you’re okay.”

“Of course” she said, putting on a smiling mask.

***

“And that’s the story,” Rarity said over the mild background music. Pony Collins, Rarity guessed, though she had been a bit distracted.

Octavia nodded, resting her head in her hooves as she listened across the table. Her steaming coffee sat before her.

“My, you have had a time of it,” she said with a crisp Ponyford accent.

Rarity sighed and massaged her temples. “It has been a bit trying, but it is all my fault. I know myself, Octavia. I am simply too quick to jump to conclusions, for all my pretense to poise. I acted like a starstruck filly.”

Octavia tsked. “Oh, come dear. Don’t be so hard on yourself!”

The two ponies sat at their usual table in the back of the Inkblot. Rarity enjoyed it here, the relative peace, the little bubble of Middle Canterlot in Ponyville. The art on the walls, and the charming bookshelves full of old books, all of it. The coffee was good, and the barista had a crush on her, she could tell. He was rather obvious about it. Poor fellow.

She stared down at her cup, lost in thought. She was grateful for the cellist. Their companionship was a comfortable one, ever since Octavia had left the city for more rural environs. It was part of why she was going to ask Octavia for this favor.

“Might I ask you a question?” Octavia prodded.

“Of course,” Rarity said, her eyes unwavering. She always ordered a hot mocha here, with Octavia. It had become part of their pleasant tradition, the strong coffee mixed with chocolate. Gods she loved chocolate.

“What do you really feel, I wonder? Is this simply infatuation? Forgive my prying.”

“No, no. You’re quite right to ask. I honestly do not know. It seems sudden... but is it? Of course, once upon a time I couldn’t stand Rainbow. She was brash, arrogant. She took the beauty she was blessed with and squandered it. It was so frustrating!”

“And yet,” Octavia chimed in as she lifted her cup to her mouth with both hooves, “you love her.”

“Yes! I think so. I’m not sure. We became friends, but it was just through Twilight. I wanted to be closer with all of our circle, and so I began watching her fly, trying to coax her into joining me at the spa or for lunch.”

“The spa? Honestly?” Octavia set her cup down and chortled. “You’re kidding me. Surely, you’re kidding me.”

“No, I assure you, I did indeed attempt it,” Rarity replied, smiling despite herself. “And she even went, once or twice. Of course, only when others went with us. As a group of friends, but I didn’t mind. I’m not sure why it was so important to me.”

“You two have been spending a lot of time together. I notice Miss Dash flying towards the boutique often these days.”

Rarity sighed, but her smile stayed. “Yes, she has been. It’s been delightful! I enjoy Rainbow’s company, though it’s perhaps not the most refined of conversation. She’s so passionate about flight.”

Rarity looked up from the table and her cup to the coffeehouse. There were a few ponies. A teal pegasus with a red mane read a thick book against the wall. A handful of young teenaged ponies chatted amiably at the counter while the barista who was so enamored with her prepared them a drink. Ah, and there was his sidelong glance in her direction.

Rarity saw the table Twilight loved, where the wall dipped into a little alcove. She remembered having watched her friend writing at that table, and had always wondered what she was working on.

“I believe you could have a definite romantic attachment,” Octavia said, tapping her chin. Rarity saw her out of the corner of her eyes, and looked back to her companion as Octavia continued thoughtfully. “And I begin to suspect that it’s deeper than you know, from your story. True love begins out of friendship, I’ve always thought so. It’s the basis of romantic love, companionship.”

“That’s not exactly high romance and passion,” Rarity said dryly.

“Isn’t it, though? Love...” Octavia gestured oddly at the air, as if trying to grasp for something. “I’m sure,” she said after some thought, with a smile, “that you’ve wondered why Vinyl and I ended up together.”

Rarity raised an eyebrow. “Forgive me, but it did seem odd at the time.”

“As it should. We are rather different, after all. I prefer tea to energy drinks, if you catch my drift. Ah, but see, it all grew! Friendship can be a seed, and it is beautiful to watch affection blossom and deepen and grow!” She returned to her coffee with a knowing smile. “Like your own.”

“It’s all moot now, I suppose,” Rarity said, her eyes returning to the table. She sighed.

Octavia rapped the table, and Rarity looked back up to see her with a scowl. “Is it?”

“It would appear so, yes.”

Octavia rolled her eyes. “Rarity, you are a good mare, but perhaps your romantic acumen is not as high as you would believe.”

Rarity bristled, frowning. “Now, hold for just a mom—”

“I am being serious. Rainbow Dash has been visiting your boutique, and she was doing so before you said you began working on this dress. She’s stayed for food and chatting. She’s enjoyed your company. I find it odd, if she’s so comfortable with you, that you would be the last to know. Don’t you?”

“Well, yes, but—”

Octavia nodded. “I would not be so quick to make a final judgement,” she said quickly, and Rarity paused to gather her thoughts.

Finally, she sighed. “Perhaps. I don’t know. It’s not like what I actually do changes if I choose to hold out hope or not.”

“Perhaps,” Octavia said, and drained the last of her coffee. Rarity looked down at her own, suddenly losing interest in it.

Rarity fidgeted in her seat. Now came the awkward part. The favor. She took a deep breath and began. “Octavia, I was hoping I could ask you for a favor.”

Octavia raised an eyebrow.

“I know you love Vinyl. You moved here to be with her, and... oh dear, I’m going about this all kinds of wrong ways! I simply... I need a ‘date’,” she said, wincing. “I need to be accompanied to the ball.”

Octavia froze. She opened her mouth, and then shut it again. Licking her lips,she eplied slowly. “I am not sure I can help you.”

“As friends! Oh, I’m dreadfully sorry, I’m not trying to insinuate anything. But it would be a disgrace to me if I went alone. It’s hard to explain,” she whined. She felt stupid. Of course Octavia would be loathe to go, she had a marefriend. Stupid, stupid, stupid Rarity. Yet again we put our hoof directly into the trap!

“I will talk to Vinyl,” Octavia said hesitantly. “I do understand, I think. You told me you designed some of the uniforms, wasn’t that it?”

“One of them in particular, yes,” Rarity explained, nodding.

“Ah. So some of the spotlight will be on you. It will be implied that you and I are romantically involved... which we are not. I know you don’t mean it that way, but we both know about propriety. Perhaps,” she tapped her chin again. “Perhaps... do you know Miss Heartstrings? She plays in the square on occasion.”

“Oh, absolutely! I gave her a scarf a few months ago. Poor dear looked like she was freezing, shaking like that,” Rarity said, furrowing her brow. “Would she amenable, you believe?”

“Yes. Lyra may not be the most social of mares, but she is articulate and graceful. A poetess, though she scoffs at my calling her that. Above all, she will certainly not reflect poorly on you.”

Rarity smiled. “Thank you. Truly, I appreciate it. Perhaps now I can breathe a bit easier!”

“Perhaps. I’ll talk to her, and send her around to the boutique, if you’d like,” Octavia offered, and then stretched. “Ah, but it has been a while, my friend. Yes, Miss Lyra will be a good companion for you. If nothing else, the two of you can talk of music.”

Author's Note

...

Crap.

I didn't mean to publish it

but there it is. Sorry