Alice woke up a little later than normal on her first day off. She made her way to the cafeteria for a late breakfast. She couldn't help but hum herself a happy tune as she made her breakfast selections. After she had her first meal for the day, she spotted Fresh Breeze sitting at a table in apparent deep thought. Alice made her way over to the rose pink and yellow striped maned pegasus.

“Hello, Fresh.” Alice greeted the light green pegasus. Fresh blinked a few times and tried to smile, but it didn't spread far. “How are you today, Fresh Breeze?” Alice asked hoping to coax an answer from her friend.

Fresh gave a heavy sigh and answered, “As good as expected on a day I work harvest. It’s my first day working harvest this season. This day is always the toughest day for me. All of the days are still tough, but not as bad as the first day.” Alice placed a hoof on her back and lightly rubbed her in sympathy.

Fresh gave a small smile in appreciation for the kind gesture before asking, “Why do you seem to be in a good mood today, Alice?” She then looked at Alice with concern before adding, “You aren't enjoying harvest are you?”

Alice gave a shocked look as she answered, “Heavens no.” Fresh seemed to ease hearing this response. “I have today and tomorrow off. I have already spent time working both the floor and Lookout duty.” Alice’s green eyes dimmed as she said, “Neither was easy for me.”

Fresh gave Alice a sorrowful look and said, “Sorry you have already gone through such a day, Alice.” Fresh then gave the light tanned pony a smile and said, “It’s good to hear you have time off though. What do you plan to do with your break?”

Alice gave an excited smile as she answered, “I am going to spend time looking around Cloudsdale. I haven’t really done so yet. I am originally from Lonpony, so this will be my first time seeing the pegasus city in the clouds.” Alice gave a thoughtful smile for a few seconds before sighing and saying, “After my two days off I will be working a good bit on the harvest again.”

Fresh was smiling at Alice as she talked about Cloudsdale, but frowned in confusion hearing Alice would be working a lot more factory time. “Why is that, Alice? I thought Seekers spent a good deal less time working the factory like us messengers, especially the Stars.”

Alice nodded, “Yes that is usually the case, but since I am new here I have to spend a good deal more time working harvest than the others. That way I can better appreciate the benefits and privileges that come with my rank in the future.” At least that is what they officially said to her. Alice had a feeling it was another way to test her and see if she was cut out for the job or not. She didn't take just anything she was told about the factory at face value.

{-} {-} {-}

Once Alice finished her meal and Fresh Breeze made her way to the factory, Alice went to enjoy her time off. Alice squinted into the bright blue sky as she used the employee exit. It was a warm partly cloudy day with a slight breeze. Alice thought it was perfect. She brightened up and stretched her wings before taking flight.

Alice smiled happily as she flew around in the sky above Equestria. She didn't have to do anything today besides enjoy herself. She had forgotten how free she felt while flying like this.

She finally started her tour of Cloudsdale after she spent a good bit of time flying. She found the cloud buildings to be very enchanting. She eventually made her way to a park with a rainbow colored waterfall. She stared at it with a blank expression and thought it seemed a bit excessive given the rainbow making process, but then again there did seem to be a decent amount of sacrifices already and they were barely in the start of the harvest.

Alice shook her head and admired the park area as a whole, instead of focusing on one aspect of it. She smiled warmly as she looked around. There were cloud sculptures all around it and a beautiful yellow colored cloud walk way that circled the whole park. There was a small gazebo with pink cloud pillars and what looked like a cloud fountain in the center.

Alice followed the trail through the park taking in the sights and sounds. It helped her focus on the grand scheme of things. She watched as a few young pegasi fillies and colts played around a rainbow fountain as their parents either hovered above or rested on a nearby cloud bench. Alice discovered seeing the young ponies playing helped ease her mind.

Alice continued touring Cloudsdale after the park. She saw the coliseum. She saw several of the buildings and pegasi monuments scattered throughout the city. Her favorite was the one of Private Pansy and Commander Hurricane for founding the cloud city shortly after discovering Equestria with the leaders of the Earth Ponies and Unicorns.

She also enjoyed the master post office as well. While at the post office, she almost ran into a grey pegasus with a blonde mane and odd eyes which Alice found interesting. The pegasus introduced herself as Derpy Hooves, and even offered Alice a muffin. Alice bowed and politely accepted her kindness, wishing she could return the favor.

Derpy simply smiled and said, “Don’t worry about it! I love Muffins! Everypony should have a muffin!” The mare then flew off with post office saddlebags. She apparently had to make an overnight delivery from a smaller pony town to Cloudsdale.

Next Alice found the Weather Factory. She thought it would be a good idea to take the guest tour of the place. She wanted to see the whole operation instead of just the rainbow production side. She was technically a weather factory employee, even if she was a secret employee.

Alice thought it would be good to have a better understanding of the whole process to help make her cover more believable. She wasn't a fan of the weather lab coats though.

The dark maned pegasus joined a tour group just as they were about to start. Their first stop on the tour was the cloud storage bays. The clouds were made at a different facility nearby and sent here for holding before distribution. They were grouped by function and sub grouped by size.

The second stop was the snowflake production area. Alice thought it interesting how they were each specifically hoof crafted. She found herself actually looking forward to winter and snow after seeing how lovely the snowflakes looked. She wondered a little what it would be like to have a job like this, one that only involved joy and happiness using something simple like snowflakes.

Alice was intrigued when the guide told the group they were going to the Rainbow Production Pools next. She was eager to see and hear about the face side of her facility, and the ‘official’ explanation on rainbow production.

On the way there she saw a group of three stallions walking by the tour group. One of them, a dark pegasus with a sandy colored mane and a dumbbell cutie mark, gave her a cat call and said, “Looking good there, babe.”

She guessed they were just passing through the rainbow pool area because she didn't recognize them. Also If they were rainbow factory workers they wouldn't be cat calling her. Everypony there knew about her Seeker test and most were a bit wary of her. Though she guessed they could hire completely different ponies for the face side of rainbow production.

They entered the production pool room and Alice had to admit the face side of the operation was very impressive and beautiful. There was a tall vat in the back of the area where multicolored liquid poured into a series of large bowls before ending in the bottom sunken pool network.

Alice listened as the guide explained to them all the liquid was concentrated and saturated with pegasi weather magic, and only a select few knew how to safely transfer the proper amount of magic to the liquid. The guide then talked about how each bowl further mixed and concentrated the liquid before it was deposited into the holding pools.

He told them when a rainbow was made for order a pair of white clouds were filled with the liquid and a pair of weather ponies took the two clouds to the desired location. Once at the destination, the clouds were kicked simultaneously and the ponies used their weather magic to determine the arc and height of the rainbow to meet specifications.

The explanation was satisfactory and mostly true. However Alice knew more of the story. The tall vat in the back of the room was the final holding cell for the final product and all of the other bowls and pools were simply for show and didn't really serve any other purpose.

The liquid first came from the essence and the vats deep below. Once each color vat was filled, the liquid was piped to larger holding tanks thanks to wind magic where it was then dumped carefully into the mixing tanks. Once a mixing tank was finished, the liquid went to holding vats before it was then pumped into the tall vat in the back of this room.

Once the tour guide led the group to the gift shop, Alice noticed a grey pegasus stallion with a dark green and light blue mane. He had a winged black bowler hat for a Cutie Mark. Alice knew him by name because it was exactly what it showed on the tin. Alice looked around and noticed no other ponies in the area. “Bowler?” Alice said questioningly. The stallion was ‘mixing’ one of the bowls at the moment.

The stallion turned to look at who called his name and gave a smile as he said, “Alice! What are you doing here?” He was a mostly cheery pegasus, but when needed he was cool and collected. He paused his stirring and hovered down to Alice’s side.

“Well I had some time off and decided to take a tour of the famous weather factory.” Alice gave a smile to him. “I found their explanation of rainbows rather intriguing.”

Bowler gave a hearty chuckle as he said, “Well the rainbow process is rather complicated to explain as you know, Alice.”

Bowler was actually Bowler Hat and number four in the Stars. He was the previous number five but after the last ‘incident’ and the recent round of testing he advanced a rank. He lucked out when Alice was defeated by Night Chill, though this didn't mean he wasn't a very skilled Seeker as well.

He usually told everypony to call him just Bowler. When Alice had smiled and jokingly called him ‘Just Bowler’ at the ‘New Stars’ party he got a real good laugh out of it. The two then became decent friends, especially since the others were quiet and distancing themselves from Alice.

Alice gave a giggle and said, “Indeed so.” He gave another chuckle as Alice said, “I must say the setup here is very nice.”

“Well presentation is key to success in this case.” Bowler then looked Alice over with an appraising eye as he said, “I don’t think white lab coat is your style, Alice. No offence.”

Alice gave a laugh as she said, “I dare say aesthetics were the least of their concerns when making a work uniform for the weather factory, Bowler.”

“I think you are right about that.” Bowler gave another laugh before then sighing and saying, “Well I better get back to ‘mixing’. It is a very important task.” He said the last part with an over the top fake snobbish voice.

“Yes I am sure it is. Better hop to it, Bowler,” Alice said giving him a smirk.

“I have lunch in an hour would you care to join to me, Alice? I would like the chance to get to know a fellow co-worker better,” Bowler asked her. Alice smiled and nodded her head in answer.

Bowler hovered back up to one of the bowls to stir again as he said, “Great! See you then. Meet me at the cloud ring track. It is easy to find. Not too far from here. I know a great place near there for lunch or really any meal.”

“Alright see you then.” Alice then trotted off to the gift shop quickly. She was ready to get out of this lab coat already. She would have flown, but there was a strict employee only flying rule and even then only in designated areas. Workers could hoover up to ledges and such but not much more unless needed.

{-} {-} {-}

Once Alice left the Weather Factory, she saw the same trio from earlier still in their factory coats. Alice walked by and they stopped her. “Hey you’re that babe from earlier. The one taking the tour with the others.”

Alice gave a pleasant smile and answered. “Yes that is the case. I found it very interesting, especially the part about the rainbows.” Alice then started walking.

The trio followed her or rather the Dumbbell pony and his two lackeys did. She wasn't sure if their group counted as a trio or even friends. Alice decided she would call the supposed leader Dumb-Bell, since she didn't really care for his name at the moment and he hadn't bothered to share it.

Dumb-Bell walked next to her and conspiratorially whispered to her, but still loud enough his two friends would hear as well. “You know we work in the factory. I know a lot about it. I even…”

He looked side to side and the tall one gave a goofy sounding laugh. Dumb-Bell continued, “I even know the secret to making rainbows… If you want I could tell you about it. All you got to do is just go on a date with me tonight.”

Alice paused. She doubted his words, but she figured it was her duty as a Seeker to find out any possible leaks about the factory’s information she came across. Dumb-Bell gave his two friends a nod and smile. “Is that so?” Alice asked.

He gave her a smirk and nodded. “Well that is interesting, but I am not so sure I am willing to go on a date just for that reason alone,” she said with a smile.

He had a thought and seemed to have confidence in it as he smiled and said, “Tell you what… Let’s have a race at the cloud track. If you win I will tell you what I know. If I win you go on a date with me tonight?” He gave his friends a smile as they laughed.

Alice thought it over for a bit and took a closer look at him. He didn't seem familiar so she doubted he was that amazing of a flyer compared to her.

Alice then gave a teasing smile. She would get two birds with one stone here. She would find out if he somehow did actually know anything about the factory, and find where the cloud track was. “Oh I don’t know if that sounds entirely fair.”

The two lackeys failed to hide their chuckles as the leader gave a confident smirk and raised an eye brow at her. “You might be right. I'll go easy on you.” The two friends of his laughed harder at this.

Alice’s green eyes glowed with amusement and she gave them a confident smirk of her own. “I was meaning it wouldn't be fair for you.”

The two friends gave a couple ‘ooohhhs’ to this. Dumb-Bell smirked more as he said, “I like you. You got spunk, babe. Let’s go.”

The three friends took to the air with Alice leisurely behind them. She wasn't going fast enough for her trail to appear even, but she knew they weren't going very fast either.

{-} {-} {-}

The group finally arrived at the cloud track and Alice learned the leader’s name really was Dumb-Bell. She mentally sighed once again at how ‘descriptive’ pony names could be. Soon a few of the nearby ponies gathered to watch Alice and Dumb-Bell, since they were obviously going to race.

“Alright let’s keep this race simple. We are just going to use the top rings here.” Dumb-Bell panned a hoof around the area pointing out the top level rings. “Ten laps. First one to finish wins. Our early lunch break won’t be long enough for any more, since we still have to eat. Sound good?”

“Sounds perfect to me.” Alice answered as she took her position on the start/finish line. She was going to have fun in this race. Dumb-Bell might even be a decent flyer, but Alice was pretty sure she had the race won already. She wasn't going to be too harsh to the stallion once she won. He may be a little arrogant, but he wasn't too bad of a stallion for all she knew.

“Hoops here will start the race and Score here will take the finish line photo if needed.” The taller pegasus hovered in front of them in the middle with a flag in his mouth, and the other pegasus took out a camera and stood off to the side of the of the line ready to take a picture.

The leader of the trio took up a spot on the line just to the side of Alice and got into his starting position. Alice noticed that he did seem to have an idea about how to race judging from his starting position.

The two flyers waited for the flag to start them. Hoops waited a couple of seconds and then waved the flag with his head. Alice and Dumb-Bell both shot off the line and past Hoops. They were currently neck and neck as they entered the first ring and rounded the first corner. It was a tight squeeze but they made it through the first five rings together.

Dumb-Bell had to admit the mare was a pretty decent flyer. He gave a smirk and put on some more speed. He started to pull away from her.

Soon after he pulled away, she caught up and pulled ahead. He then pushed a little harder and pulled ahead once more. The two racing ponies kept going back and forth in position for the next three laps of the race.

On the fourth lap, Dumb-Bell pushed himself even harder and managed to hold on to a decent lead for half the lap. However, he soon saw a streak of green, blue and purple butterflies shoot pass him. He stared in surprise for a while looking at Alice’s tail as she raced in front of him.

Dumb-Bell shook his head and got into the game again. As much as he wouldn't mind starting at her flank he wanted to win this race. Dumb-Bell flapped his wings with all of his might and speed. He managed to catch up and stay with Alice through the end of the lap.

However after the second turn of the fifth lap Alice turned to him gave a beautiful smile as she said, “How about we turn it up a notch?!”

Dumb-Bell just played it cool and nodded with a fake confident smirk. He was acting as if he still had something left. He was surprised when he ended up being able to get a little more speed and he felt proud of himself.

His moment was short lived however. Alice smiled, turned to face forward and narrowed her eyes. She kicked it up to what she gauged was about seventy percent of her max speed. Alice pulled ahead now and didn't stop. Dumb-Bell slowed just a little bit as he gasped at Alice’s new level of speed.

Dumb-Bell kept going, he may have lost the race but he was going to finish it. Alice wasn't anywhere near him after she “turned it up a notch”. By the time he was on his seventh lap she was half the course ahead of him and not slowing down.

Once his ninth lap rolled around she had caught up to him a little before he finished the lap and passed him. She crossed the line and finished! There were cheers from the watching ponies and Dumb-Bell stopped. He didn't feel like finishing the lap after she overlapped him.

He came to a stop at the finish line and tried to catch his breath. “Damn…. You weren't kidding… You really are fast.” Alice gave a smile to him. After he took a couple of breathes he spoke again. “I think the only pony I have seen fly faster than that was Rainbow Dash at the Best Young Flyers Competition. When she performed the Sonic Rainboom!”

Alice actually blushed a little at the praise. She then smiled and said, “Thanks. You weren't too bad yourself actually. You probably could win against several pegasi. Unfortunately, I am not one of them. So what is this secret you know about rainbows?” Alice asked trying not to appear too interested.

Dumb-Bell gave a nervous laugh as he said, “About that….”

He took in a deep breath and spoke. “I don’t really know much more than what the guide told you all. I just know the room is a pain to clean up if there is a spill, and if you toss anything into the rainbow bowls it either dissolves or causes a rainbow colored explosion. I was mostly trying to use that as an excuse to get you interested in a date with me. Sorry…”

Alice gave a small smile and shook her head at him. “I figured as much. I still was curious if you knew something else about them though.” Dumb-Bell felt relieved she wasn't too pissed at him. She wasn't anywhere near as exhausted as he was currently, which said she could go even faster than she did.

Alice’s smile grew a little more as she said, “Thanks for the race anyways, Dumb-Bell. It was fun. I haven’t given my wings a good stretch in a few days.”

Dumb-Bell gave a sigh to this. He then shook his head as he said, “Really though… I think you could be a decent match for Rainbow Dash if she didn't use the Sonic Rainboom. You were fast! She is the only other pony I have seen with a trail behind her as she flies apart from you.”

The two then heard a good-hearted chuckle and hoof clap from behind them. A voice then spoke up that Dumb-Bell and Alice both recognized. “Well, D-Bell. That is why when Rainbow heard rumors about a fast flying mare in Canterlot she checked it out, and they did race each other.”

“You’re joking right? They raced each other? Bowler?” Dumb-Bell asked as he looked between the two. When he was met with only silence, he shook his head in a ‘just my luck’ way. “Who won and by how much?”

“Rainbow won of course and by a good bit. She used her Sonic Rainboom in our race. She later told me she felt it was the only way to win the race for sure. She was lucky our finish line was on a straight away. If it wasn't I would have easily won before she could recover from her Rainboom.” Alice answered.

Dumb-Bell just shook his head and decided he was never going to try and show up a mare again. First Rainbow Dash does pull off the Sonic Rainboom when he bet she couldn't, and now Alice swept the floor with him in a race. “Well anyways… It was nice racing you… Wait I never got your name?”

Alice gave a sly smile as she said, “That’s because you never asked for it. I am Alice Briddell.” The pegasus mare then gave an aerial curtsy to him and his friends.

Dumb-Bell, Hoops and Score weren't sure what to make of her introduction. They decided to say their names and give a nervous bow to her. Their actions gave Alice a little giggle.

Dumb-Bell spoke again, “Anyways nice racing you, Alice Briddell. Now if you’ll excuse me…” He hovered back over to the track and sighed as he said, “I have another lap to complete.” With that he took off as fast he could.

He lost the race and was overlapped by a mare, but he was still going to finish his last lap and in style. He gave a little smile as he thought to himself, “At least she’s a beautiful mare.”

{-} {-} {-}

Once the crowd had cleared and Alice was following Bowler to where they would have lunch, he asked her with a smile. “Did you really think Dumb-Bell knew something secret about rainbows, Alice?”

Alice gave an over exaggerated humph and said in a volume only he would hear her, “I felt it was my duty to make sure there weren't any leaks about information.”

Bowler raised an eyebrow at her and Alice let out a sigh. “Okay I didn't really think he knew something. I wasn't sure how to get to the cloud track so when he challenged me to a race at said track I decided to go with it.” Bowler gave a friendly laugh as he continued to lead the way to their destination.

“What do Dumb-Bell and his friends do in the weather factory, Bowler?” Alice asked.

“They are sort of go to stallions for anything you don’t want to do yourself, or if you need an extra set of hooves. D-Bell is a bit arrogant but as you saw he admits when he is proven wrong and doesn't hold a grudge or get angry. He is decent enough and Hoops and Score follow him without question. He is the brains in their little group, but when the others know more about something than he does. He listens to them,” Bowler answered.

Bowler then gave a quick laugh as he said, “He used to be a lot worse back at flight camp I hear. He and Boss Dash bumped heads several times, but back then he didn't care if he was right or wrong. He would never admit he was wrong and still make fun of her and honestly she did the same back most of the time."

Bowler gave a smile and continued, "However, he got better as he grew up like ponies usually do. He still makes fun and thinks himself better than others, but he will admit when he is proven wrong and he has a better understanding of where to stop before causing trouble.”

Bowler gave a laugh, “Unfortunately get him in a room with Boss and he forgets all of that stuff. Mind you he always loses to Rainbow Dash now, but he still tries. Childhood rivalries huh?” Alice just shook her head. She couldn't really understand such things. Bowler then smiled and said to her, “Look, here we are!”

Bowler was pointing to a sign that read “Air Time Café!” Alice looked around and thought the place seemed nice. She liked the idea of the hovering clouds which pegasi sat on to eat what looked like a wide selection of foods.

Bowler nodded to himself as he said, “My wife owns the place. I have promised her if I get to retire I will help her run the place. She still charges me so don’t expect any discounts, Alice.”

Alice gave a chuckle, “She sounds like a rather practical mare, Bowler.” Bowler nodded as Alice looked the place over. “I do have to say this place as a certain charm. She must put a lot of work into it. Does she do the cooking? I guess it is too busy for her to do all of the cooking alone maybe she just comes up with the recipes?” Alice would have asked more questions, but Bowler started laughing so she stopped.

“She does put a lot of work into it. She used to do all of the cooking, but as it grew more popular she needed others to do that. She makes the recipes and spends time with the customers. She likes hearing what they think of the place, both good and bad." Bowler gave a love filled smile as he looked over the place.

"Also working out here allows her to keep the service quality high. The wait staff won’t dare slack off with the boss around. Her brother helps keep the cooking staff in line in the back for her so she doesn't have to worry about them,” Bowler finished.

“Ohhh… so it's a family business! How lovely.” Alice’s green eyes were a light with happiness.

Bowler grinned as he said, “Yep and if things go well it will stay that way for a good while. Our oldest daughter got her Cutie Mark working here. I have been discouraging her from taking the flight test for obvious reasons, and so she can help out here. Flight School isn't mandatory despite being the norm. However, I think I might only be able to hold her back another year, two at most.”

He would have continued but the hostess called for them and placed them on a high cloud table. “I hope you know what you are doing, Bowler. You know how Lilly gets.” The mare then looked Alice over. Alice just gave her a confused look as Bowler dismissed her.

A few seconds later a golden colored mare with a dark red and pink mane flew up to them. She had dark blue eyes and a recipe book with wings for a Cutie Mark. “Hello, Bowler. How are you this afternoon? May I ask who your guest is here?” The mare gave Alice a distasteful look.

Bowler smiled and said, “Hello, Lillian. This is a new co-worker of mine. She started recently and had a couple of days off and bumped into me while taking the guest tour. I invited her to lunch to get to know her a little better.” Lillian was still staring at Alice, but blinked as Alice got up.

Alice gave an aerial curtsy and introduced herself, “Greetings, Ma’am. I am Alice Briddell. I just got here not too long ago and started working at the weather factory with the rainbow pool division.” Alice then looked up at the other mare.

Lillian actually gave a little smile now. Alice definitely had manners and Lillian couldn't help but believe that they really were just co-workers, even if she was a young pretty one. Lillian gave her a curtsy as well and her attitude improved substantially.

“I'm, Lillian Skyy. Most just call me Lilly, you may as well. It is a pleasure to meet you, Miss Briddell. I don’t think I have ever seen you around Cloudsdale before. How long have you been here now?” the owner mare asked.

Alice took her seat again and smiled as she said, “I haven’t been here long at all. Until recently I was in Lonpony, but I took a little bit of an Equestrian tour. I finished by spending a good bit of time in Canterlot before finally coming here and taking the job at the weather factory.”

“I find it odd that you are new and already have a couple days off.” Lilly turned to her husband and asked, “Is the new training regime really that difficult?”

“She is training in the backroom currently. It is very taxing. In that stage, they are given extra time off to help with recovery,” Bowler said in answer.

Lilly just nodded and turned back to Alice. “So you just spent some time in Canterlot. Did you make it to the royal wedding?” Lilly’s eyes shown with interest.

Alice sighed. “Unfortunately I had some problems traveling at one of my earlier stops on my trip, so I just missed the wedding. It was such a shame. I heard it was quite the affair. Regardless, I am just glad I ended up here at my last destination on time for starting my job.”

Lilly nodded and smiled as they looked over their menus. She was about to ask Alice another question but Alice spoke again before she could. “You know, Lilly. I have to say it is rather refreshing to meet another pony who doesn't have a very descriptive name. When I hear some of the pony names I have to wonder why their parents called them what they did.”

Lilly gave a delightful laugh as she said, “I hear you there, Alice. I have a waitress on staff named Service Smiles. She is a wonderful pony and very good at her job but still… Service Smiles.” Lilly gave a sigh and a slow shake of her head. “I almost felt sorry for the dear, but she says she likes her name so it doesn't matter I guess.”

“I agree with you two on that, though I like my name too. But still Alice here met Dumb-Bell earlier today and I can’t help but wonder what kind of parents would name their colt after a piece of exercise equipment,” Bowler said. Both mares gave a little laugh and shook their heads.

“So do you two know what you want?” Lilly asked them. Bowler gave her a questioning look. Lilly gave a half frown. “What? I can’t wait on my wonderful Husband and his friend? I won’t bother you two that much, since I'm sure you will talk shop, but we are a little busy so I am helping out with taking orders.”

Bowler just gave a smirk and raised an eyebrow, “I don’t have any problems. I always love your special service.” His smirk turned just a slight bit lecherous. Lilly blushed and gave a little head shake to him, but she said nothing and the two actually gave each other a little laugh.

Lilly then straightened up and asked, “Anyways what would you two like?”

Bowler placed his order, but Alice gave a thoughtful look and bit down just a little on her lip as she asked, “Does it really have to be Tuesday to order the Tuesday special? I didn't see it listed on the regular menu. I always thought it wasn't very nice to show all of the daily specials on a menu, but not offer them any other day. It is just plain mean and teasing.”

Lilly blinked a couple of times. She had never really been asked that question before. “Huh. I've never really been asked that before. Usually ponies see something they like on the menu and just think to come again on the day the listed special is offered if they really want it."

Lilly rubbed the back of her mane and said, "I guess it doesn't have to be on a Tuesday only, but I couldn't give you the special price. Is that an issue for you? Realize I would have to try and figure out a fair price so it wouldn't be something firm.”

Alice thought for a moment and decided she was okay with that. She had an idea about what price it would be judging from the other items on the menu, which would probably be the same cost. “Since I really like how it sounds I think that will work. If you would be so kind and it isn't too much of problem for your staff that is.”

Lilly smiled, “It won’t be. We have those ingredients on hoof already and the chiefs know how to prepare it. Since we were going to redesign our menu soon anyways I think in the future I will list a regular price for the specials next to it. In case anyone else really wants something like the Tuesday special on a day other than Tuesday.” Lilly finished taking their orders and left them.

“So… How was your first time working those two parts of the job Alice along with everything else?” Bowler asked her quietly as he casually surveyed the other ponies near their table and made sure no pony was overhearing them.

Alice thought for a moment before answering equally quiet, “Well it was tougher than I thought it would be, even with all of the warning Rainbow Dash, Fresh Breeze and others gave me.” Alice just stared at the table and took a deep breath.

“But… I am pretty sure I will manage. I am glad Rainbow has been there for me like she has been. It is nice to know she cares so much. She has told me to come to her for anything and likes to check up on me to make sure I'm alright,” Alice concluded.

Bowler gave a little smile and said, “That is good to hear, Alice.” Bowler once again remembered how Boss Dash had indeed taken a special interest in Alice.

Rainbow Dash was always a good boss, even if a little strict sometimes, but she rarely took so much interest in one employee. It was difficult to get close to someone at the factory. Rainbow is always there for them mostly, but she still keeps a little distance which leaves no mistake she is the boss of everypony there.

Alice sighed, “However besides you and Fresh Breeze, most of the others are guarded around me and don’t really seem to like me that much.” She knew they had their reason for this behavior and despite the cold distance, she still did feel a quiet support curiously.

Alice just wished she had more friends like so many of the others did. Alice had spent plenty of her time alone and used to think friendship was a waste of time, but after getting close to Rainbow and having a friendship with Fresh. She found herself very much liking this friendship business.

Bowler gave a little smile and said, “Well after what happened on your test day it is understandable I would think. Though I have to say you have garnered attention from almost everypony there, and it isn't the best kind of attention.”

Alice looked at him with her brilliantly shocking green eyes that held that common darkness and then something a little more in them. It did unnerve him a little bit, but he still mostly liked Alice despite this.

“I think with time things will get better,” Bowler said trying to get her gaze to lessen in intensity. Alice gave him a raised eyebrow and he sighed.

“It will, Alice. Until one of us turned against our group; we always did stick by each other in some fashion. It isn't always apparent, but it is true nonetheless. Even Dark Glow and Night Chill won’t think less of anypony unless they turn their backs on their duties.”

The two were silent for a bit and their meals arrived. “Alright here you go, Alice. One Chief’s eggplant and flower salad for you.” Lilly placed the meal before Alice.

The meal was a salad with grilled eggplant, different flowers, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, a hard-boiled egg already sliced and the house dressing. In addition, it had different sliced fruits along the edges. Alice’s eyes glowed in wonder at the master piece of a salad before her.

“Here's your regular, Honey.” Lilly said to Bowler. She placed a grilled cheese and daisy sandwich with a side of hay fries and some fresh fruit before Bowler.

Bowler couldn't help but smile and gave his wife a peck on her cheek before she could get back to work. Lilly giggled and gave him a soft hoof jab to his chest. “I expect an extra more personal thank you once you get home.” Bowler gave a wide grin as she left to go help others. She promised to talk to them later if she had time before they left.

Alice was about half way through her meal when she decided to ask something she had been wondering. “So Bowler how often do others work in the rainbow pools area?”

Bowler took a couple more bites of his meal before wiping his mouth with a napkin and taking a sip of water. “Well you know how those in the back room in our position are given extra privileges and such.” Alice nodded to him.

“Working the pools is one of those. It may be tedious and boring, but it is nice to work out front instead of the backroom. The others like us still have to report during their normal hours for assignments and be ready in case something comes up though.” Bowler took another sip of water.

Alice looked at him with a confused look. Bowler leaned in closer so Alice met him. He then carefully whispered to her. “We are also used to help out with sticky situations from time to time. Just like how your friend Fresh has her extra royal duties we do as well. Those that have proven their selves are used to help out Equestria when our special talents are needed.” Alice gave an ‘ohhh’ face and the two quickly pulled back.

Alice gave a little sigh as she said, “So I guess I have more time with D-Bell and crew to look forward to then?”

Bowler gave a chuckle. “Yah but they aren't that bad. They know better than to interfere with your job.”

Bowler then gave a smirk as he said, “Though I would count on being asked out a couple more times and maybe asked to lunch and to hang out with them. Other than that things shouldn't be too bad for you. Unless he learns how close you are to Boss.”

Alice gave him a flat look and asked, “What do you mean?”

Bowler couldn't help but chuckle. “Well he might try to win you from Dash, even if you two are only friends. But once you set him straight he will back off most likely. Then again he might not cause any fuss after you beat him in that race by over lapping him.”

Alice gave a sigh as she twirled a mushroom on her fork. She still found it mesmerizing every time she held utensils with her hooves. She shook her head and said, “I don’t know about that. I could see him being the type to start really training harder and try to challenge me again.”

Bowler gave a snort to this and raised an eyebrow. “You really think he could win against you sometime, Alice?”

Alice stayed silent for a couple of seconds before giving a wide grin that Cheshire would have been proud of and spoke. “No. I can see him getting a lot better than he is, don’t get me wrong there. He has the potential. But I was racing him at about seventy percent my max speed currently, and I won’t slack off on my training either.” Bowler gave a shrug. He supposed she was right about Dumb-Bell. The stallion was still young.

Alice then gave a devious smile. “If he did right, I could see him being capable of doing our job speed wise.”

Bowler spit out some water to this. “Do you really think that, Alice?!” Alice gave a small nod. “I would have never thought he could do what we do. I didn't think he had that in him.”

Alice gave a smile, “I did say speed wise. Mr. Bowler. I didn't say he had the other aspects. I don’t know if he does or not. Regardless, that is only his potential. Whether he reaches it or not is entirely up to him.”

Bowler sighed to this and mentally made a note to pay extra attention to what words and in what order Alice said them in the future. “If you say so. Still. I never thought he had that much potential.”

“Well I do say so,” Alice said with a familiar ever knowing look on her face that only she and a certain cat would recognize. After that, the two continued their meal making small talk.

Sometime later Lilly found time to sit with them as she had her own lunch break. The three talked about several things and Alice felt she could call Lilly a friend once they had to part company and she paid for her own bill.

Alice paused as she counted out her money. She hated to ask this question, but it was bothering her greatly. She knew this wasn't really an issue in her own world, where a woman rarely paid for anything besides groceries, but here mares were very independent and dare she say, dominant.

She had to ask, “Do I pay you a tip, Lilly?” When she got a questioning glance from the owner of the restaurant she clarified, “What I mean is. I know one usually pays their server a tip, but I was wondering if you accepted tips yourself since you own the restaurant.”

Lilly gave her a sweet and motherly smile as she said, “Oh Alice dear. You don’t need to worry about such a matter.” Alice gave her a determined look.

Lilly’s smile grew as she said, “Usually I split my tips from the day with the kitchen staff or put them aside for when I give them a little something in thanks for their hard work. I own the place so I don’t need tips, but I will use them to make sure my workers are happy in some manner.”

Alice nodded and gave a tip that equaled about twenty percent. She really had enjoyed the food and Lilly was very helpful. She was also very pleasant company when she sat with them.

Alice couldn't help but feel a little excited and happy as she paid for her own food with money she earned herself. It wasn't the first time she had done so, but each time she still got a thrill, because to her it showed just how much better and equal this world was in her own eyes compared to the London she came from.

The little group then departed from each other’s company. Lily went back to working for her restaurant. Bowler went back to his job of stirring at the rainbow pools. Alice went on her way to enjoy more of Cloudsdale.

Alice spent a good bit of time just relaxing under the sun on a cloud while she watched a group of fillies and colts race each other as they practiced for their flight test.

Alice smiled at the scene and choose to think of them just playing rather than practicing. If she thought them practicing, her mind and heart might wander to places she would rather them not.

{-} {-} {-}

Once the sun lowered in the sky, Alice made her way to the factory and waited for the next day. She wasn't sure what she would do the next day, but once she stepped inside she ran into Rainbow Dash in the halls. “Hey, Alice!” Rainbow said in her voice that Alice was starting to enjoy hearing more each time.

Alice gave a beautiful smile, “Hey, Rainbow. How are you tonight?”

Rainbow gave a wan smile as she answered, “Much better than I was today. We were very busy. Anyways, how was your first day off?”

Alice smiled and told her about her day as they made their way to somewhere they could sit and talk to each other. Rainbow listened intently. She wasn't usually one for long stories, but she liked hearing about Alice and she also loved Alice’s voice. That accent was wonderful music to her ears.

Rainbow laughed at the part where Alice kicked Dumb-Bell’s flank in a race. She also smiled when Alice talked about all of the sights she saw in the Cloudsdale. Rainbow gave a little giggle at Alice and the thought of her taking the Weather Factory Tour.

She then gave a sheepish smile as she said to Alice, “Yah. About that…. I guess I forgot to tell you that you will get your official tour and be told about your Weather Factory duties you'll be assigned to keep up your face side of the job. Usually you would have had it by now, but you had your first mission and then harvest came around and the board ordered me to have it postponed until after harvest, since it is your first one.”

Alice gave a nod and said, “Okay that helps fill in some gaps I had after talking to Bowler earlier at lunch.” Alice then talked about her lunch with Bowler and the rest of the day she had afterwards. Rainbow would have loved to talk about her day as well, but it would have felt wrong to casually make talk about the sacrifices like that at this time.

Rainbow Dash and Alice talked about other things afterwards and then Rainbow got an idea. “Hey Alice. Do you have anything planned for tomorrow late afternoon or early evening?” Alice shook her head.

Rainbow smiled, “Would like to come with me to a Bar-B-Que then?” Alice gave her a puzzled look which made Dash feel like she had unintentionally crossed a line or something.

Alice then asked, “What is a Bar-B-Que?” Rainbow’s jaw dropped and she just stared in disbelief at Alice. Alice blushed feeling a little embarrassed.

Rainbow shook herself out her stupor and said, “I guess they don’t have them in Lonpony. I would have thought you would have heard of them. Do you know what a backyard grill is?”

Alice gave a nervous laugh as she said, “Sorry I don’t, Rainbow. I lived a very sheltered life growing up.”

Rainbow then nodded in understanding. The rainbow maned pony figured this was something that made Alice feel uncomfortable and didn't want to dwell on it, so she explained. “You see sometimes ponies who are friends or at least know each other decently well have a little get together where we grill up or Bar-B-Que vegetables and burgers and stuff like that you know.”

Alice looked a little puzzled. Burgers sounded like something with meat and as far as she knew ponies didn't eat meat. Now that Alice thought about it, she found it odd she hadn't found herself wanting to eat meat while she was here. She figured it was because of her new body. Ponies didn't eat meat, and since she was now a pony why would she want it herself.

Rainbow decided she should explain burgers better. “You see there will be a portable broiler there as well for the burgers. Even though all of those mashed up beans are held together by egg whites and other such things, homemade ones aren't very sturdy so they fall apart on the actual grill if you flip them. Anyways there will be lots of different vegetable and sauces there for them along with buns and cheese and all of that good stuff for the burgers.”

“I was thinking you might like to go. I know you can’t like being cooped up in here during your time off. Since you haven’t been here for long, I thought it would be a great way for us to have some more fun as ponies instead of Director of Operations and Number Five Seeker. Plus, you could meet some other ponies as well. I'm sure you know how important it is to be sociable in your field,” Rainbow said to Alice.

She was really hoping Alice would agree to this because she wanted to have a chance to see Alice with her guard down a little. Rainbow might get closer to her and Rainbow might also be able to figure out if Alice really was alright like she said she was in the office a couple of days ago. She also really did want Alice to make some friends. Friends helped a pony out here in the factory.

Alice gave a smile and said, “Sure! I would love that, Rainbow. I really want to try one of these burgers you talked about.” Alice actually felt a little giddy about this Bar-B-Que. She wanted a chance to meet new ponies and ‘hang out’ with Rainbow as Rainbow Dash. They did this a little while in Las Pegasus, but Alice was still thinking about her mission some at the time so she couldn't enjoy it as much.

Rainbow smiled and said, “Great try to be back here at about 4:30 tomorrow afternoon. We should be finished with our shipments for the day by then.” Alice nodded and the two went their separate ways. Alice went to get some supper and Rainbow left for the day.

Alice spent the rest of her night wondering about Bar-B-Ques and what one would be like. She would have asked for more details from some of the other Stars, who normally stayed in the factory, but she still felt like they didn't really feel comfortable with her there. She eventually picked up a book to read in the middle of the common room as a way to say I am here and you had better get used to it.

{-} {-} {-}

Alice woke up at just the right time for the day considering she would be going to a Bar-B-Que with her boss and the mare that had the most beautiful mane she had ever seen, Rainbow Dash. Alice was all too proper to let it show, but she really hoped something exciting would happen at this social gathering between the two of them. In the end though, she would be perfectly happy if they grew closer as friends if nothing else.

Alice somehow made it through her breakfast. She only remembered once again contemplating how it was a pony could hold a spoon with hooves. She might have to just ask a pony about the spoon thing in the end along with glasses of juice.

Alice was pacing in her room wondering if she needed to dress for this occasion or not. Once the clock in her room told her it was half an hour before she needed to leave, Rainbow knocked on her door. “Come in!” Alice answered.

Rainbow gave a chuckle as she entered the room. “Hey ya Alice! Are you about ready to go?”

Alice sighed and plopped her haunches on the bed. “I'm not actually, Rainbow.” Alice said with a worrying tone in her voice. Rainbow gave her a concerned look and soon Alice spoke again. “I don’t know if I should wear something or not for this occasion.”

Rainbow gave a beautiful laugh as she answered in her wonderful voice. “Don’t worry about it, Alice. This is a casual affair.” Alice gave her an incredulous look.

Rainbow continued, “I don’t know what that means in Lonpony, but here that means you don’t need to wear anything. If you were to wear something it would be no more than a hat. Otherwise you would be over dressed.”

Alice gave a sigh of relief. “I am glad to hear that. I still have to get used to customs outside of places like Lonpony and Canterlot.” Her green eyes then looked onto Rainbow’s rose colored eyes as she smiled. “I do sincerely hope you will enlighten me on such matters, Rainbow!”

The factory director couldn't help but give a little giggle to Alice in response. “Maybe I will.” Alice’s eyes glowed green with amusement. Rainbow gave a little smirk. “You know I can’t just give that information away for free right?”

Alice gave a seductive and teasing smile as she asked in a slightly deeper voice. “Oh? What is the price I have to pay for such an honor? I am not opposed to such things. In fact…” Alice’s green eyes glowed with just a hint of teasing lust as she said, “I might actually enjoy the price more than the information.”

Rainbow, despite her usually non-girly attitude, blushed a strong crimson in response as many thoughts raced through her mind. She finally recovered despite Alice’s musical giggle, and said, “My My Alice. Do you really wish to spoil such a wonderful surprise?” Rainbow then gave a very enticing smile to the green eyed pegasus Seeker.

Alice gave a slight blush this time and a nervous cough. “I suppose not. So long as it is a pleasant surprise.” Alice’s vivid green eyes darkened with a hint of warning as she concluded. “I am not very fond of non-pleasant surprises though.”

Rainbow’s smirk grew wider as she said, “Oh trust me, Alice… The last thing I want is to give you an unpleasant surprise.”

Alice gave a beautiful and sweet smile as she said, “Well then I look forward to it.” Alice then gave a little twirl and said, “I am also ready for the Bar-B-Que. Do be so kind as to show me all such an event has to offer.” Alice then said breathy in conclusion, “If you would be so kind, Rainbow Dash.”

{-} {-} {-}

Alice and Rainbow finally departed from the Factory through the secret employee exit and were now on their way to the Bar-B-Que. Rainbow explained how they might see some other factory workers, but it was a Weather Factory friend of her’s that was hosting the party so there would be Pegasus ponies that didn't work in the factory there.

Alice was excited by this proposition. Frankly, she didn't like most of the factory ponies besides Bowler Hat, Fresh Breeze, and more obviously Rainbow Dash. Alice could already smell some wonderful smells in the air as they closed in. “That smells wonderful and delicious, Rainbow!” Alice said as she closed her eyes momentarily and focused her brain on the smell alone.

Rainbow gave a chuckle as she said, “That is one Lime Jelly’s talents. Not her special talent mind you. She has a cutie mark with a couple of umbrellas and works on clouds at the Weather Factory.” Rainbow then lowered her voice conspiratorially as she said, “I also heard she sometimes helps with the Wonderbolts Academy, but that is just rumor I think.”

Alice gave a little chuckle to this and only smiled, “Regardless, if she can ‘Bar-B-Que’ well enough I can smell it from here I have to wonder why she isn't working at Air Time Café or someplace like that.”

Rainbow gave a knowing smile. “She actually did before she got her weather job. She always talks about how she loved her job there, but in the end it didn't pay well enough for her to make it her career she felt. Once she started working with clouds at the factory, she didn't want to do anything else in her life.”

Alice gave a pleasant smile to that. She hoped she would get to speak to Lime Jelly today and hear what it is like to work in the Weather Factory.

Rainbow turned to Alice and said, “You can tell her a little about your Rainbow Pool cover if you want, Alice. She can give you a good understanding about the Weather Factory in general.”

{-} {-} {-}

Once the two factory employees landed and started mingling, Alice was surprised how friendly all of the ponies really were. They may never be really close friends or anything, but she could tell they could easily become good friends.

She met many ponies that day, including the hostess herself. Lime Jelly was a lime green pony with a light lavender mane and tail. She was very friendly and made sure all of the ponies had food to eat.

Alice finally had her first taste of a burger at the Bar-B-Que. She thought the burger tasted very close to meat and she really enjoyed the taste it had. She ended up gorging herself by having two of them with mayonnaise and cheese on lightly grilled buns with lettuce and pickle. She found the pickles to be very delightful and had extras.

After the burgers, she had two of the mushroom kabobs and some “Potato Chips” as they called them. She had heard of these delights while in London but only barely. As far as she knew, it was something one of the “Savages” in the Americas came up with to please a customer. The chip soon caught on and became fairly popular on the other side of the ocean.

Alice learned a good deal about the Weather Factory from Lime and many others. They were all too happy to share their thoughts when Alice mentioned she was a trainee in the Rainbow Pools area.

One of the many nuggets of advice she got was. “Make sure you use Dumb-Bell and his crew in any way you want. They may want a ‘date’ but that will be all. They are very useful.” She received a lot of different pieces of advice as well, most of it was just common sense Alice thought, but she appreciated the tips anyways.

Alice was asked by lots of the ponies, “What do you do to make rainbows? They never really told us that during orientation. It seems to be one big secret.” Alice just gave a small knowing smile as she told them it was in fact a secret and she wouldn't risk losing her job just for sating their curiosity. Most of her audience grumbled to this but didn't say anything else on the matter.

Once the party had been going on for a good hour, Rainbow finally came over and spent the rest of her time at the party with Alice. Alice really enjoyed this. The two of them joked with each other and talked about many things privately as well as with other ponies. Once it grew late, Alice was confident to say she had made a few acquaintances and friends at the party and she had tasted some rather delicious foods.

{-} {-} {-}

It was getting to be evening and the sun was low. Alice and Rainbow were sitting on a couple of clouds that had a perfect view of the sunset. Alice smiled happily as she said, “I think this has been one of the most enjoyable days in my life.” Rainbow looked to her wondering about this. Alice smiled at her and her smile was contagious, soon even Rainbow Dash found herself smiling just as much and mentally agreeing with her dark maned friend.

“I really want to thank you for inviting me along. I don’t think my day would have been anywhere near as wonderful as it was otherwise,” Alice told her in a serious tone that never the less conveyed her happiness about the day.

The cyan pegasus blushed and said softly, “Awww. Come on, Alice. I'm sure you would have found something fun to do today.” Rainbow liked the compliment but hearing Alice’s tone and seeing her smile made it almost seem a little too much. Alice simply kept giving her that warm smile before looking to the sky again.

It was shortly after night fall when one of the two flyers spoke again. “I do love the nights here, Rainbow Dash. They are very pretty.” Alice spoke before then motioning to the sky above them with a hoof. “The moon is lovely along with the many bright and beautiful stars, and we are above the ground so buildings don't surround us."

“Yeah, Luna definitely knows how to make a lovely night sky, and she barely spares anything to bring it to us. I often think the night sky is far more beautiful than the daytime sky,” Rainbow said as she looked over to Alice.

Her companion seemed to be speechless and staring in awe at the night sky. Rainbow was a little concerned with this. “Ummm…. Are you ok, Alice?”

Alice cleared her head and answered, “I am okay, Rainbow.” She gave a light laugh that sounded like bells to Rainbow. “Even knowing Princess Luna is in charge of the night sky completely, I sometimes find it very amazing one pony, even if she is an Alicorn Princess, is responsible for both the stars and the moon in the nights.” Rainbow didn't say anything in response. She just nodded and the two kept admiring the night sky.

{-} {-} {-}

It was later in the night now and Rainbow finally stretched her body as she told Alice. “Well I think we should head back to Factory now, Alice. I am not going to try and make it to my home in Ponyville, so I'll be staying there as well.”

Alice gave a disappointed sigh as she whined, “Do we really have to go back, Dashie?” Alice then continued without whining, “I do wish very much there was a way I could just stay out here tonight. Is there no way for that to be possible? I mean the weather is perfect tonight and the stars and moon are so very wonderful.”

Rainbow looked to the sky for a moment before she gave a smile that caused Alice’s heart to flutter a little. “Well there is one way, Alice.” Vivid green eyes looked to her imploringly.

"We could… if you wanted to… make a night cloud. As long as we make it to work on time tomorrow, it won’t be an issue.” Rainbow didn't dare say anything like Rainbow factory or Harvest right now. The moment was too beautiful to ruin it with such words.

Alice gave a larger beautiful smile. “That sounds lovely, Rainbow! I find that most agreeable. You don’t mind do you?”

Rainbow blushed a little as she said, “I don’t mind but it is usually considered very intimate to share such a cloud at night.” Alice looked downwards, her cheeks flushed with a little color. “Not to say it has to mean something like we are a couple or anything like that, but it means at the very least we consider each other very close friends.”

Alice’s cheeks lost a little of their redness and her heart felt mixed about this piece of information. She spoke softly, “I-I don’t mind, Rainbow Dash. I-I would be happy with that.”

Rainbow blushed a little though Alice didn't notice. “Alright then…. If you are sure…” Alice didn't say anything she just started hovering where she was.

Rainbow felt a little giddy at the prospect, and she soon made a decent sized night cloud. She had always wanted to do this with somepony she really liked, and she was very happy about it. However Rainbow made sure it was plenty big. She wasn't sure what Alice’s thoughts about her were, and she didn't want to press her into anything.

Rainbow was usually very fast in all things life had to offer including relationships at first. As time went on, Rainbow was more likely to go at a comfortable speed with other ponies when it came to relationships and romance matters.

When it came to Alice, she wanted to make sure things were going really good and she only tested the line a tiny bit at a time. She wasn't the reckless filly wanting to escape the haunting memories of the Rainbow Factory anymore, so she was careful with such things now.

{-} {-} {-}

Once the night cloud was finished, Alice landed on it and gave a soft smile to Rainbow. Alice thought it was very fluffy and she was a little apprehensive about being so close to Rainbow Dash for the night. Still she was happy with this arrangement, and it was supposed to be a decent night, weather wise. Sleeping on a cloud under the night sky was something she had always wanted to do secretly.

Rainbow Dash was happy, but also a little nervous about this as well. Sure, they weren't going to be doing anything as far as she knew. There was still something about sharing a cloud with Alice under such a beautiful night sky never the less. Rainbow only hoped she didn't snore tonight or anything like that. She also prayed to Luna she didn't do anything else that might embarrass her with Alice tonight.

Alice finally settled down and hoofed at the cloud just a little bit before laying down on it and looking up to Rainbow Dash and saying. “Thanks, Rainbow. This means a lot to me.”

Alice then patted to the spot next to her as she continued, “Come on now. I wouldn't want to inconvenience you to the point you feel you must hoover the whole night.”

Rainbow nodded and settled in next to Alice. She couldn't help, but take in Alice’s scent as she tried to seem cool with this whole situation. She caught Alice looking her over in the corner of her rose colored eyes. She just kept staring up at the stars. She felt happy Alice was looking her over to such a degree. It meant she had interest.

Alice looked over Rainbow and felt something stir inside her as she did so. This wasn't the first time she had felt this way, and she was concerned at first by these stirrings. After overhearing other ponies, she felt more at ease. Others had talked about how love here wasn't restricted so much by gender.

She knew Sunset Daisy and Twinkle Star were lovers and together, but still she wasn't entirely sure about such things herself because of her etiquette training as she grew up. She acted and told herself it didn't matter, but she did find it a little hard to wrap her head around at first.

Alice took in the sight of Rainbow Dash next to her. She loved Rainbow’s mane and tail colors. She also loved her cyan coat. The fact Rainbow hoof picked her for her job, and how welcoming her voice was to Alice, and how Rainbow made her aware that she was there for her if needed. All made it really hard for Alice not to grow close to her and want something more than just friendship.

Alice had always wanted to be close to other people, or in this case ponies after the asylum, but none of them seemed to be able to understand or care much for her besides her body. Rainbow however was very kind, friendly and glowed with loyalty. Alice knew this was most likely because she was the Element of Loyalty, but still it comforted Alice.

The light tan pegasus really wanted to have friends and something more with others that weren't imaginary, but her past made this extremely difficult. She didn't want to trust anyone. She decided everyone would try and take something from her and then leave her alone once more.

Rainbow on the other hand didn't seem like this to her. Sure Dash was her boss and most likely treated all of her employees similar to Alice at first, but Alice didn't care about that. Rainbow was still the first person or pony to treat her so well since she left Rutledge Asylum.

Alice took in Rainbow’s scent and smiled as she slowly exhaled and looked up at the stars. She wasn't sure if Rainbow noticed her looking her over like she had, but if the cyan beauty did notice she didn't care to make a deal out of it.

Rainbow noticed Alice looking into the night sky once more and she decided to return the favor. She looked Alice over in detail. Rainbow took in every detail of the beautiful green eyed pegasus next to her and took in a deep breath and smiled. She really did like being around Alice, especially today.

Despite all of this there was still one big thing that got to Rainbow. Was she allowed to actually find and love such a wonderful pegasus? Rainbow had always wanted to find her special somepony, but still she often felt she didn't deserve such things like that. It didn't stop her from trying, but it did more often than not put a damper on things. She wouldn't quit her job and turn her back on Equestria despite how horrible and tough it is, but was she allowed such a simple yet difficult thing like love? She didn't know.

Rainbow shook her head of those thoughts, and decided no matter what she wasn't going to let this night be wasted on thoughts like that. She didn't know what would happen in the future, but when you work a job like hers you never took life for granted anymore. It may be horrible and very twisted, but she felt she needed to live on for those that couldn't anymore. Even if she, herself, was the one that condemned them to death.

The two pegasi enjoyed the night as they laid down on their night cloud and gazed at the stars. They shared pleasant topics with each other and talked while they looked up to the sky.

Alice decided she would tell Rainbow about her past soon. Well at least part of it. She wasn't sure what Rainbow would think about her being an alien species from a different planet or time more or less, so she was going to omit such details.

She knew Dash would either think her being from somewhere else was really awesome, or she would see Alice as a threat and act accordingly. The latter was something Alice really hoped wouldn't happen.

However, tonight was not a night for such things. Tonight was a night to just enjoy and love. It was a night to keep her mind and Rainbow’s empty of such worries. Princess Luna went out of her way to make a lovely night for all the ponies. The least they could do was enjoy it for what it was worth.

Alice turned to Rainbow Dash and their eyes met. The two smiled to the other and then talked a little longer before finally giving in to sleep.

Alice had a curious but wonderful dream that night. In her dream, she and Rainbow Dash were visiting her Wonderland. Wonderland was now once again a beautiful and safe place, even with the hints of twisted darkness here and there.

In the dream, Rainbow seemed oddly confused and curiously aware of her surroundings, but Alice didn't pay much attention to this. She just continued to slumber happily as did the cyan pegasus next to her. It was something to ponder at a different time.

Author's Notes:

Just in time for Labor Day for those of us in the USA, a double chapter update! Hazaaa! The new chapter fun has been doubled! I felt a relief chapter was needed after the last one… That could just be me and the wonder that is alcohol talking though.