“U-Um…R-Rainbow Dash?”  A sweet sounding voice called, awaking me from my gentle slumber.  Great who’s waking me up and why?  There should be a rule that states that any pony that sees the Great Rainbow Dash sleeping shall not disturb her unless it’s an absolute emergency…or if they’re a Wonderbolt.

“R-Rainbow Dash” I heard the voice call again, a bit softer than before though this time I was more conscious recognize whose voice it was.  It was the sweet and gentle voice from my friend Fluttershy that was waking me up.  I know if I just keep my mouth shut and pretend to keep on sleeping she’ll eventually leave me alone, but I don’t think I could do that to her.  Unfortunately I’ll have to answer her; I just hope she has a good reason to be waking me up.  She knows how much I like to nap.

“Yeah hold on.”  I finally answered in a sleepy tone before yawning.  I stretched every part of my body to get myself more motivated to get up.  I finally noticed that I was laying on something soft…and that my face felt really funny as if something was on it.  I took a deep breath before gently opening my eyes to-

“Ahhh!”  I shouted out loud  in surprise as I was greeted with an image of a giant skull in my face.  I instantly shot up into a sitting position in shock my eyes widened in terror from the thought of being attacked by a skull.

When I did I found myself looking at the clear sunny sky instead of that terrifying image of that crystal skull.   My face also suddenly didn’t feel funny anymore.  I looked around to find myself on a cloud as I previously suspected and saw Fluttershy flying slightly above me to my left.

Realization finally dawned on me as I knew now where I was.  Oh that’s right…I was lying on a cloud reading a Daring Do book.  I must have dozed off before Fluttershy woke me up and...Ah damn it!  My book!

“Oh dear…”  I heard Fluttershy say in a worried tone as she was looking down below her.  Oh dear is right!  I leaned over and looked down as well to find my book…crashing through the roof of Applejack’s barn.  It caused a considerate sized hole in the roof and made a crashing sound so loud we could clearly hear it from where we were in the sky.  Geez the pen is mightier than the sword and a book is more powerful than a bomb.  I wonder what kind of damage I could do with an eraser?

“Well that’s just perfect…” I said sarcastically as I frowned slightly and raised an eyebrow slightly at the sight below me.  I could just imagine all the different ways Applejack was going to use to tan my flank after she found that book.

“I-I’m sorry Rainbow Dash…it….it’s all my fault.”  Fluttershy apologized desperately in a whisper which made me look up from the hole in the barn to the yellow mare looking like she was going to cry.

“No it isn’t.”  Technically it is, “If I wasn’t snoozing right here on this cloud and if this cloud was anywhere else it would’ve fallen on the ground harmlessly, the fact that this happened is purely coincidence, don’t beat yourself up over it Fluttershy.”  I comforted in a reassuring tone as I held my hoof out to her hoping she wouldn’t start crying.  Now that I thought about it, technically it really wasn’t her fault.  What are the chances that this cloud would just float over Applejack’s while I was asleep?  It seems highly unlikely the more I really think about it because out everywhere in Ponyville I just happened to float above AJ’s barn…can we say ‘That’s one hell of a coincidence?’  Good!

“W-Well, if I didn’t wake you at all this wouldn’t have happened…I-I’m sorry Rainbow…”  She apologized again as she hid her face slightly behind her pink mane and looked down, her ears also drooping down as well.  I rolled my eyes at this and gave a slightly annoyed sigh.  I know that when she gets like this it’s hard to convince her that it isn’t her fault.  So it’s best if we just moved on so I don’t have to spend thirty minutes on this topic and not get anywhere.

“Just forget about it.”  I replied waving my hoof dismissively at her, trying to shrug off the property damage I caused.  “Why did you wake me up anyways?”  I then questioned before she could have a chance to retort with another unneeded apology.

“Oh yeah….w-well I was wanting to ask you something…”  She responded looking back at me looking slightly happier but still very nervous.  Ok so she woke me up to ask me something…I hope it’s important like the Wonderbolts have come to town and not something stupid like watching some butterflies with her or something.  She didn’t respond immediately and instead just looked at me.  I, in return, just looked at her back expecting a response.

“Well…what is it?” I then asked a bit annoyed after a few seconds of just awkwardly staring at each other.

“Oh yes, sorry.”  She apologized again as she lowered her head slightly and smiled a bit embarrassed by her moment of silence complete with a light shade of crimson appearing on her cheeks before quickly disappearing.

“W-Well, I-I…I was wondering what you-“

“RAINBOW DASH!” An angry pony abruptly shouted from below, cutting the yellow mare off and scaring her to the point where her wings locked up in fear and her ears shot up.  I reached out and caught her in my hooves before she started her free fall down to the ground.  I don’t think Applejack would appreciate a Pegasus sized hole in her roof to go with that book sized hole.

“I think Applejack found the book.” I remarked dryly stating the obvious, Fluttershy simply nodding in agreement.  Looking back up at me with her cyan colored eyes as the slight shade of red from earlier returned on her face.  I was tempted to look down below but I didn’t want to see the sight of an angry orange pony coming out with some kind of weapon looking to hunt me down.

“Um, I say we continue this conversation somewhere else…somewhere less hostile!” I then suggested as I opened my wings and took off from the cloud.  Fluttershy simply nodded again and as she behind her mane slightly again.  She didn’t look like she was going to start flying on her own anytime soon from her wings locking up.  

I guess this meant I was going to have to hold her in my hooves as I flew.  Oh well, it’s not the first time I’ve done this and it certainly won’t be the last.  I rolled my eyes and gave off another slightly annoyed sigh as I darted towards the town.  It felt great to move my wings again, to get some exercise, and to feel the force of the wind blowing against me and through my mane.  I was surely going to get some exercise now for I was flying as fast as I could while also holding on to Fluttershy.  I didn’t want to go too fast as a Sonic Rainboom was out of the question though.   I don’t think she could take the sudden rush of awesome speed...nor could the rest of Ponyville for that matter…yeah…let’s keep the property damage to a minimal…I’ve caused enough already with that hole in Applejack’s barn.

My thoughts turned to places we could use to hide.  I frantically checked the skies as we flew through the air but there was rarely a cloud in sight.  Damn it, why couldn’t those featherbrains schedule for clear skies tomorrow or how about never for that matter?  Since there’s only a few clouds in sight Applejack could easily find us and we can’t stay in the air either we’d be easy to spot.  I suppose we could hide in Cloudsdale, though Fluttershy isn’t exactly comfortable there and probably wouldn’t like it.  The same goes for Everfree forest so that’s out of the question as well.  There’s no way we could go to my place, Fluttershy’s, or anypony else’s place because I’m sure she’ll check them all.

I flew us to the center of Ponyville in what felt like a few seconds and immediately upon entering Ponyville I started to look around for possible buildings to hide in.  I put Fluttershy down when we reached the ground and then continued to look around in my desperate search to find a suitable hiding spot.  I then heard a slight giggle from beside me.  I turned to see Fluttershy with her mane and tail slightly messed up from the high speeds I was flying at.  It made me snicker a little bit before I realized I was supposed to be looking for hiding spots so I turned back around to once again look for places to hide.

“Once again your high speeds have left me looking like I just went through a tornado…” Fluttershy teased in a happy tone, which made me turn around to look at her proudly.

“Well of course, you just hitched a ride with the fastest pony in all of Equestria!  What did you expect?”  I boasted as I puffed out my chest slightly and looked at my hoofs while Fluttershy started to fix her mane.  I should probably remind her that I can even go faster than that…and that I’m always fast and not just for when I’m running away from somepony…though I’m sure she already knows that….oh well I’ll just remind her again!

“I can now fully see why your mane always looks like that.”  The yellow Pegasus then commented with a giggle before I could open my mouth, finishing her work on her mane to make it look normal again and then starting to work on her tail…wait what the hell is she talking about?  ‘Why your mane always looks like that.’  Is she saying my hair is ugly or something!?

“What’s that supposed to mean huh?”  I asked going in menacing tone, going on the offensive a bit as I narrowed my eyes at her and flew closer to her.  She squeaked held her tail in front of her face in fear….well…you mess with my mane you get…ummm…uhhhh…I’ll make a snappy comeback later.

“I-I didn’t mean it like that.  I-I meant that no matter how fast you go your hair always looks the same, it…it’s made for you…it-it’s aerodynamic so you don’t lose an ounce of speed and it still looks good afterwards w-while everypony else might have some problems….l-l-like me for-for in-instance” Fluttershy explained as she began to shake and lower herself to the ground, her voice getting softer as she went on before almost going inaudible.  I leaned back and looked up slightly, thinking about what she said.  Yeah…Yeah she’s right!  No matter how fast I go I always look the same while others have problems!  She’s right!

“Heh…yeah that’s right.”  I began smugly as I raised my hoof to look at it, “Every part of my body is made for speed and winning!  So of course my hair would reflect this as well!” I finished as I put my hoof down and moved my head to show off my awesome rainbow colored mane, smiling with my teeth showing to give off the best appearance I could.  All I heard in response was a sigh…most likely out of relief that I wasn’t busting her chops anymore.

“So…where exactly are we going to talk at?”  Fluttershy nervously asked as I opened my eyes to see her get up from the ground and regain her composure…or…at least…her normal shy composure instead of her ‘I’m so terrified I’m about to cry’ composure.

What she said made me remember that I was supposed to be figuring out where exactly we were going to hide at.  Maybe we should hide somewhere in the hospital?   No, we don’t have a purpose unless I decide to fake an injury or something.  The theater, no it’s closed today.  Applejack’s barn?   The scene of the crime?  It would be crazy, but Applejack would never suspect me hiding at the place where she lives especially after the mess I caused.  Though we might be found and caught by her family as I’m sure she’s told what happened.

I’m on the right track though, where else would Applejack never suspect me of hiding?  The Spa, no I think I’d rather be caught by Applejack then hide there.  The theater, wait no I’ve already thought of that and turned it down.  Damn it, think Dash!  Your flank is on the line here!  My train of thought was interrupted by the sound of my stomach grumbling rather loudly, great now I’m hungry.  My eyes suddenly went wide at this realization.

“Fluttershy!”  I shouted as I turned around to look at her, who eeped in fear from my sudden outburst, “Are you hungry?” I then asked still shouting at her…which I should probably stop because I don’t want that much attention drawn to us.  Especially if it’s the attention of an orange pony with a hat and a couple of apples for a cutie mark.

“Y-Yes…it’s going to be dinner soon and I was actually hoping to talk to you before-“

“Great!” I shouted in glee cutting her off, “What’s the most expensive and luxurious restaurant you can think of?”  I then asked still yelling at the top of my lungs.  Geez I need to stop that!  I might as well be going around with big sign above me saying ‘Here I am Applejack…the target of your vengeance is right here!’

“W-Well…I-I think there’s a really expensive and fancy one just down the other street…will that suit your needs?”  She replied nervously as she put a hoof to the side of her face trying to think.

“You think?  What do you mean you think?”  I then questioned further asking for clarification and confirmation on this mysterious restaurant she ‘thinks’ is just down the other street.

“W-Well…I-I’ve never been there so I can’t say I exactly know where it’s at, I just know it’s down that street.”  She explained nervously, bringing a little clarity to the situation.  That’s good enough, as long it’s on that street I’m sure we won’t miss a big uptight restaurant with fancy decorations.

“Great, what are we waiting for then?” I sarcastically asked as I flew behind her and started to push her to the street she mentioned...  As we went down the street I frantically searched for the fancy restaurant in question.   Then I spotted it towards the end of the road, a very expensive and lavish looking building called the York and Albany.  There were nicely cut bushes in the shapes of Alicorns out in front of the building…clearly Princess Celestia and Luna…no Cadance or Twilight though…huh.  There was also a fountain with bits in it from ponies making wishes.  I could also hear the faint sound of music coming from within the building which sounded orchestral and extravagant.

“How the hell did I never notice this place before?” I questioned in an annoyed tone as I raised a hoof and pointed to it…you think I would notice a place like this since it stands out so much but nope…this is the first time I’ve seen it!

“Well…it...it’s fairly new…I remember Rarity talking about its grand opening a few weeks ago and how exquisite it was…”  Fluttershy answered as looked at me a bit nervously, not feeling comfortable about being at something as high class as this…oh believe me…I’m right there with you…going to something as stuffy as this is L to the AIM!

“Whatever…let’s go inside before somepony sees me and my rep is destroyed…or worse I get spotted by AJ…” I then suggested in a low, unenthusiastic tone as I walked up and opened the door for Fluttershy.  She just stood there motionless still looking uncomfortable and shook her head slightly at me.

“T-That’s ok Dash…y-you can hide here on your own…I….we…we can talk later…” The canary colored Pegasus replied as she started to shake slightly…Fluttershy…we can do this the easy way or the hard way…I think you and I both prefer the easy way…

“Fluttershy I’m in this mess because of that little talk you wanted to have with me…so we might as well have it…and plus I know if AJ spots you she’ll ask you where I am and you’ll tell her my hiding spot…so you’re coming in here with me…” I explained as I narrowed my eyes are her, making it clear that she has no choice in this matter.

“N-No…that’s ok…I…I really shouldn’t go in there…its way to good for me…” she responded shaking her head and backing up slightly…she’s not going to come in willingly is she?  Fine…oh well….we’ll do this the hard way.

I sighed and rolled my eyes before I landed on the ground behind her and starting pushing Fluttershy as fast as I could into the building.  She most likely wouldn’t enter the place on her own without some help.  When we entered I stopped pushing her and walked up to the podium where a waiter would be at…if there was one…apparently he must’ve been doing something to leave us hanging at the entrance.  You know leaving somepony like me just standing here isn’t really a good thing.  If I were a food critic or something I’d knock a few stars off your rating just for this!

I sighed as I took this boring moment look around the restaurant.  As expected it was very lavish and expensive looking.  Fine fabrics draped on the walls, boring slow music playing by a live orchestra on a stage towards the back, tables covered in nice looking tablecloths with a candlelit centerpiece in the middle of each table.  A pretty nifty looking place that would probably made Rarity feel right at home when she came.  All it did was make me feel ill and wonder how much

it costs to eat here, maybe I should’ve thought twice had before running in here headstrong like this.  I don’t have that much bits left and I don’t get paid for a couple of days…I hope this place doesn’t clean me out.  

After a few minutes of just standing at the podium I was starting to get a little impatient.  I was about to walk up and looked around to find somepony to get us seats…or better yet just walk in and take some seats myself.  Before I had a chance to though a big brown stallion with a black colored mane and tail with yellow eyes appeared…from out nowhere it seemed.  He was in a waiter’s outfit and had a small saddlebag on his back.   He looked very unamused and bored as he walked up to the small podium in front of me.

“Hey…how are you?”  I greeted bit weirdly as I waved my hoof at him with an awkward smile now feeling like I stumbled into the wrong building, and if I felt really out of place I can only imagine how Fluttershy must feel….especially after her refusal to come in.

He didn’t respond immediately, he just stood there with a straight face and then slowly blinked at us.  It was actually kind of eerie as his face wasn’t exactly the friendliest of faces and he just stood there staring at us for what seemed like minutes.  I was getting ready to say something else before he coughed slightly, probably clearing his throat to say something.  However instead he got out some small glasses and placed them in front of his eyes as she looked at something on the podium.

“Do you have a reservation?”  He asked dully…most likely checking a list to see if we were-Oh damn it!  This place required a reservation!?  I should’ve known that a stuck up place like this would require some of those.  I don’t want to leave…that would risk going out and getting caught by Applejack…I only have one shot….

“Yeah…ummmm we’reeeee…” I started, stalling for time as I opened my wings and flapped them slightly to get a bit of altitude.  I then leaned forward closer to the podium to get a view of the reservations list.  I was confident he wasn’t going to see me since he was wearing glasses and was looking at the list.  “….Derpy and Doctor Whooves…”  I then said to him as I looked at the first names on the list…wait Derpy and Doctor Whooves? Why the hell would they have a reservation here…and together no less?

“Really?”  He questioned doubtfully as he started to look back up from the list to look at us, me being as fast as I am however, quickly returned to my original position without him noticing.  Though the suspicious look he was giving us clearly meant that he suspected us and our true identities.

“Yeahhhhhhh…totally!” I lied giving a big smile hoping it would convince him.  He slowly blinked his eyes and then slowly turned to Fluttershy.  Ok Fluttershy it’s up to you to seal this deal and-

“Um…no….we’re actually not…”  Fluttershy honestly admitted in soft tone after being looked at for two milliseconds, way to blow our cover Fluttershy! “We-We actually don’t have reservations….” She then went on as she looked at the ground slightly most likely feeling guilty.  Oh even better!  Fluttershy your personality sometimes can be-

“Ok no reservation…that’s fine it’s just a dinner for two then…” –really freaking awesome!  Seriously my jaw dropped after he dryly said that.  Then he looked down at the list and marked something with a pen.  So I guess that means we’re in!  Way to go Fluttershy!  Though why would he ask us for a reservation in the first place if we don’t need one to eat here.  Also, if that’s the case why did Whooves and Derpy make one and ahhhh my head hurts…just forget about it and move on.

“Right this way please…” The waiter then said as he turned around.  I looked at Fluttershy who was still not looking the least bit comfortable and smiled at her, moving my head towards him urging her to follow him.  She smiled back slightly and nodded in agreement.

I looked back forward and then we both started to walk towards the waiter.  After he noticed us walking towards him he started walking as well in front of us, leading us towards our table.  When we entered the main room I looked up to see a huge chandelier hanging down from the ceiling.  Wow that looks expensive, I wonder how much it would cost if I broke it.  …yeah let’s avoid that, I think I’ve already caused enough damage today.

I looked around and noticed that there was barely anypony here which made me further question why there was a need for a reservations list in the first place.  I was also thankful for that since there weren’t that many ponies here to see us and that word wouldn’t get out that I was in a place like this.  If ponies found out I was at some fancy schmancy restaurant with Fluttershy I would probably be seen as a softie…or worse.  Maybe coming in here wasn’t the greatest idea after all.  Oh well I’m here already and like I said there aren’t that many ponies here so it shouldn’t be too much of a problem.

We were eventually led to a table near a window, which is both good and bad for me.  Bad in the sense that ponies outside could see us and that includes a certain jack of apples.  But good in the sense that I could keep a look outside and if I did see her I could duck and hide under the table if needed.  In any case, I took my seat at one end of the table while Fluttershy took her spot at the other side while the waiter just dully stared at me…what you got a problem with me or something?

“Can I start you off with some drinks?” The waiter asked monotonously as soon as we were both situated… still glaring at me though.  I bet I know what Fluttershy is going to get…water!

“Oh…ummm…water please.” She responded as she looked up a bit uncertain.  I called it!  I totally called it!  I should win a prize for getting it right!

“Very good…” He remarked not sounding at all like he really cared as he held up a notepad and wrote on it writing her order down, “And you?”  He then questioned as he looked back at me with his bored stare.  I have really no idea what they have here but I’m going out on a limb here and just going to ask for the one drink I desperately need right now.

“You wouldn’t happen to have any cider would you?”  I enquired with a cheeky grin.  If they had cider, especially at this time of year so close to winter, that would be amazing.  However, my hopes were quickly destroyed as he just stood there staring at me with those expressionless yellow eyes…then slowly blinking after a minute.  You know…it’s a yes or no question…you don’t have to give me that creepy stare pal!

“…water please…” I then said bitterly, giving up and just taking what Fluttershy ordered.   He wrote on his notepad again before putting the pen and the notepad away in a pocket and getting out two menus from his saddlebag and setting in front of us.

“Very well I shall return shortly with your drinks, in the meantime please look over the menus.”  He informed drearily as he placed the menus in front of us and then turning around to head off.  I sighed to myself as I really wish we had a less creepy waiter.  I looked across the table to see Fluttershy already looking through the menu.  I decided to do the same and picked mine up to look through.

“Oh my, there really is a wide and varied selection of choices here, I almost don’t know what to pick.”  The yellow mare across from me remarked in awe.  Yeah I’m with you in that I don’t know what to pick either…for opposite reasons though!  What the hell am I looking at?  Is this even edible food?

“What is all this?  I can’t even pronounce half the stuff on this freaking menu!”  I admitted in frustration as I desperately looked at one choice to try and read it, “Like what the hell is an es-car-goat?” I asked almost shouting as I read off one of the items on the menu.  I looked up to see an almost crying Fluttershy.

“Y…You don’t want that right…it…it’s made out of snails….snails are nice creatures and…some of them are my friends…do…do you really want to eat them?!”  Fluttershy asked me as she struggled not to cry right in of me…making me feel bad.  Geez, it’s not like I placed my order saying ‘And make sure you slow cook them in front of me so I can watch them suffer!’

“I don’t even know what most of this stuff is!  So of course I wouldn’t!  I would never do something like that to you!”  I replied holding my hoof out to her hoping it would make her calm down.  Thankfully it seemed to do just that as the water works stopped and a light smile appeared on her face.

“Oh thank goodness...I knew you wouldn’t be like that Rainbow!”  She said gratefully as she put a hoof to her chest and took a big breath of relief.  …be like what exactly?  And if you knew I wasn’t that why did you doubt me in the first place?  I mean when do we ever eat meat…I mean ever?  Wait why are they even offering meat here?  Gahhh more questions I know I won’t ever get answers to…or even want answers to now that I think about it.

“Glad I …didn’t disappoint you…I guess…” I confusingly agreed as we both looked back at our menus, only for me to be completely bewildered again.  I seriously can’t tell what’s what in this damn menu…for all I know I could be ordering some endangered species!

“Umm…Fluttershy,” I called, which made her look up at me again, “I don’t exactly know what any of this stuff is, and I don’t want to upset you by ordering something that would upset you…so you can order for me.”  I advised as I tossed the menu on the table, giving up on my attempts to decipher the menu.

“Ummm….w-well ok…but if I get something you don’t like I would feel terrible…” She warned as she moved the menu in front of her face to hide it. I don’t really care what I get to be honest…so it doesn’t matter to me.

“That’s ok…I’m not really worried about food at the moment so just order for me.”  I responded as I looked at the window to keep a vigilant eye out for anything colored orange, with a funny hat, or looking like they want to kill somepony.  Thankfully all I saw was an empty street that was starting to get dark from the sun setting.

Before Fluttershy could respond the waiter returned with our waters on a plate on his back…geez it took him that long to get two glasses of water?  Celestia only knows how long it will take for our food to get here!  He placed place the plate on the table, then put our glasses of waters in front us, and then got out his notepad and pen again.

“So what will you two have?” He asked dryly as he looked at me with that stare again.  Oh come on!  I’m not even ordering for myself and he looks at me with those lifeless yellow eyes!

“Oh…ummm…we’re both going to have the hay and flower platters…ummm…please and…thank you…”  Fluttershy ordered as she closed the menu up and-oh wait a minute here!  That sounds normal!  Where the hell did she find that at!?  I reached out and grabbed the menu, opening up to locate this mystery choice that Fluttershy magically found.

I couldn’t look for long though as the menu was lifted out of my hooves by the waiter, “Hey!” I called out as he took Fluttershy’s as well and put them on the plate that previously held the glasses of water.  That was rude!  I was reading that and he just took it out of my hooves!

“Two hay and flower platters…it will be out momentarily.”  He simply responded before he grabbed the plate off the table and then turned around to leave.  I watched him walk away with my eye twitching angrily.  I had half a mind to fly up to him so we could talk hoof to face!  I decided against it though….I just have to calm down…it’s ok…calm down Rainbow...I took a drink of my water to help cool my nerves…it actually helped a lot.  That stallion should really count his blessings.

“Um…Rainbow?” I heard Fluttershy call which made me look at her.  She was once again giving her usual shy looking expressions, looking down and hiding behind her mane slightly.  I rolled my eyes at the sight of this.

“What’s up?”  I responded a little cheerfully, knowing at least she would get my mind off my next prank victim the next time me and Pinkie Pie get together.

“I just wanted to…you know…thank you for taking me here…nopony has done that for me before.”  The anxious yellow pony thanked in a whisper as she looked away with a slight smile on her face.  Then she took a sip of her water as if that was so stressful she needed a drink...well at least she’s calming down…somewhat.

But honestly I think she’s being a bit over-dramatic.  She’s been to fancy places like this before, like spas, and hell, even Canterlot.  What makes this place so special?  And I seriously doubt this is the first time she’s been in a restaurant like this with somepony…I mean I know she’s shy because after all she’s Fluttershy….but I mean she’s been to restaurants before…hell I’ve taken her out a lot when we were fillies and she’s surely gone out with others…so surely she’s been to a fancy restaurant like this before…and if this is really the first time then that’s just sad.  I’m not going to take the chances that it is true and come off as a complete jerk.  So instead I’ll just shrug it off as like the usual cool amazing pony that I am.  Besides if she’s never been here then there’s no way in hell Applejack’s ever been here and would never think about looking here.

“Oh just forget about it, besides this wasn’t even in mind…it just sort of happened you know?” I said with a smirk as I waved my hoof dismissively at her, reminding her that we’re not really here by choice but because this is the best place to hide and that she shouldn’t be the grateful.

“It was still a nice gesture to bring me along instead of leaving me behind.  I’m grateful to you Rainbow.”  She went on in her usual modesty, a bit louder than last. Plus she actually looked up at me while she was smiling.  It was good that was she was getting a little comfortable and bit more confident right now…but it’s a bit late don’t you think?  And  if memory serves me…you were the one who wanted to be left behind…guess that shows that you really do hate being alone…like me.

“Well you did say you wanted to talk to me, so I couldn’t just leave you behind, especially if Applejack as mad as she was.”  I pointed out as I pointed my hoof-hey wait a second….that’s right!  She was supposed to talk to me about something, that’s the whole reason she woke me up and caused this problem!

“Speaking of which what exactly is it you wanted to talk to me about?” I then asked seriously as I looked at her sternly.  I wanted to know what was so important that she had to wake me up from one of my peaceful naps.

“W-Well…I...I…it…it doesn’t really matter now.” She replied looking terrified as she sunk in her seat, trying to hide as much as her face behind her mane as she could.  Oh you got to be joking with me…I mean come on!

“Come on Fluttershy…this is the whole reason we’re here in the first place and I’m your friend you’ve known since you were a filly…you might as well tell me what it is you were going to say.”  I said in an encouraging tone, half supporting half annoyed as I smiled at her and restrained from saying anything mean.  She revealed her face and her smile before nodding to me.

“A-Alright, well you see Rainbow…I was wanting to ask you what you thought about dat-“

“Ladies…here are your food, thank you for waiting.”  A voice said cutting off Fluttershy off from continuing and scaring her as well as she gasped in fear and moved away.

I wasn’t scared though…no not one bit!  I just had a shocked expression on my face …because…ummmm…the food is here sooner than expected!  Yeah that’s it!  …Actually wait a second it is here sooner than expected!  It took a while to get our drinks but the food was ready and delivered in like two minutes?  I need to speak to the owner to tell them they’re running this place backwards!  

“Geez, that was certainly fast!”  I pointed out after collecting myself from being…surprised at how punctual the food was.

“We take pride in getting our food out at a break neck speed…it’s about speed and proficiency here.”  He explained as he put the plates in front of us.  But apparently getting liquids to us at a decent time is another thing.  Food, no problem.  Drinks, uh, we’ll get back to you on that.  What a great restaurant.  If I had a golden star on me I’d give it to them…but that would be the only star I gave this place.

“T-Thank you…” Fluttershy quietly thanked as gratitude for the food…and for scaring her half to death.  No, don’t thank this hack, he doesn’t deserve it!

“You’re welcome; if you two need anything else please just let me know.” The waiter responded before turning around and leaving.  Oh believe me we won’t!  I’m looking forward to seeing you later when Pinkie Pie and I prank you!

“Well that was infuriatingly short.” I commented darkly as I watched him walk away, imaging him fall into random hole suddenly appearing below his hooves.

“Anyways,” I then said shaking my head and looking back at Fluttershy who was looking at her food.  As advertised, it was a mix between hay and a whole bunch of different assorted flowers put into one dish.  It looked ok, but my appetite has been ruined by that flankhole…now all I wanted to do was shove this plate of food in his face!

“What was it you were going to say before we were interrupted?” I then asked getting her attention, wanting to know what the hell she was going to ask me before eat.

“Oh…ummm right.”  She started looking down a bit as if summoning her courage again to tell me…geez is it really that bad that you have to get nervous about it all the time…just get it out in the open and get it over with.  “I…I wanted to ask you what you thought about dati-“

“No consarn it!  I don have no reservation and I don plan on eating here neither!  I jus want to look around is all.” A shout from the entrance roared, cutting Fluttershy from continuing on again.  Although this shout was from the last pony I wanted to hear.  I looked at the podium near an entrance to spot an infuriated and enraged orange earth pony wearing a Stetson.

“Oh crap!”  I shouted in a whisper as Fluttershy looked back to see the pony who started to walk into the place without the waiter officially letting her.  He’s not even bothering to stop her or anything!  He just let her in!  Buddy, if I didn’t hate you before I REALLY hate you now!

“I’m not here Fluttershy!  You never saw me!”  I whispered despartely to the timid Pegasus across from me before I moved under the table cloth and hid under the table.  I pressed my face against the floor and spotted the orange hooves coming directly to our table.  Oh crap!  I’m screwed, I’m screwed, I’m screwed!

“Fluttershy!”  The pissed pony called out as she reached our table.  Her hooves right next to the cloth and actually poking through a bit.  Oh Celestia…I swear…if you let me out of this situation I will only boast about my awesomeness only when I feel like instead of every chance I get!  No I swear it’s not the same thing and I will cut down on it just please get me out of here!

“O-Oh, hello Applejack…” Fluttershy greeted in a nervous whisper, Fluttershy don’t let me down!  My flank rests in your delicate hooves!  Please don’t easily toss it over to AJ!

“Have ya seen that feather brained Rainbow Dash round here?” Applejack questioned angrily, great it’s an interrogation, Fluttershy isn’t going to last a millisecond!  I’m doomed!  Grandma…this is your darling Grandfilly Rainbow here…I’m coming to see you earlier than-

“No.  No I haven’t.”  OH YEAH!  Sorry Grams!  You’re going to have to wait a little bit longer!  Fluttershy thank Celestia you didn’t sell me out!

“Ya sure ya didn see that clumsy show off anywhere?   I saw a pretty familiar rainbow goin in this here general direction.  Then I thought of all the places she thought I wouldn check out and this was the first place that came to mind.”  Applejack explained in a calmer tone hoping to get any kind of information out of her.  Hey!  …ponies like it when I show off!   And I’m not clumsy…I just have bad landings sometimes!  Though I have to curse myself that she would predict my movements…well played Applejack…you really are a worthy opponent!

“Why, what happened?”  My sweet sweet defender asked, genuinely sounding confused to the whole situation.  Fluttershy keep this up and I’ll nominate you in the next ‘Dash Awards!’  You’ll win first place in the ‘Best Pony who seriously saved my flank’ category!

“That butter hooves dropped this here book and it plowed through my roof!” The evil challenger explained as I heard her bang her hooves against the table, causing it to shake.  She’s clearly testing my defender more.  Come on Fluttershy; just hang in there for me a little bit longer!

“I’m so sorry Applejack, if I see her I’ll tell her you’re looking for her.” She responded sounding sincerely sorry.  Yes!  Way to go Fluttershy!  And now this is the part where the enraged earth pony gives up and-

“Say….what in Equestria are ya doin’ here anyways Fluttershy?”  Damn it!  She found a new angle to approach as she sounded really confused as to why Fluttershy is here.  I mean I would too if I found her in some place like this all by herself.

“Oh…well…I'm…I’m here enjoying a meal obviously!”  The defender replied sounding a bit more nervous.  Oh no her defenses are starting to crumble!  I don’t think she can take another blow like-

“Oh, then tell me why there is another plate for another pony huh?”  She said going further on the offensive and sounding rather aggressive in her question.  Abandon ship!  Awesome and radical ponies named Rainbow Dash first!   I started to inch myself to the edge of the table nearest to the window, ready to bust out at moment’s notice when the situation turned sour.

“W-Well…I…I’m” She started desperately trying to think of a reason, ok here it goes, I’m in my starting position ready to dash out that window even if it’s not open! “…on…on a date with somepony” She then said in an almost inaudible whisper as she –WHAAAAAAAAAAT!  

I was so shocked by what she said that I lost my starting position under the table and flopped on the floor face first.  I feared that maybe Applejack might have heard that small thump of me touching the floor, but I’m more shocked by what she said to notice anything right now and I’m sure Applejack’s the same way.  S-Seriously!  What the hell did Fluttershy just say…out loud for that matter!?  Ok maybe it wasn’t that loud but I still heard it and Applejack still heard it!

“Y…Ya…Ya what?”  Applejack simply tried to say quite possibly more dumbfounded than me.   I’m sure you could touch her with a feather and she’d fall over right now.  Hell I think I could reach out and touch her and she wouldn’t notice me!

“I…I was asked out on a date by somepony and…they…they brought me here…and right now they’re currently in the bathroom.”  Fluttershy explained as she continued the lie…I think…I don’t know…is she lying…half lying…telling the truth!  I don’t know what to think anymore!

“Ya…ya being serious?”  The confused earth pony asked…that’s the million bit question right now isn’t it!?

“Y-Yes…and…I’m so nervous…what if they don’t like me…or…what …what if I make a fool out of myself as usual…” Fluttershy confirmed as I started to hear her cry.  Legitimately actually crying!  S…She’s really being serious right now is she?  Or…is she just a pro actor?  I’m…I...

“Hey…no…I’m sure they’ll like ya…don ya worry bout it!” Applejack responded now sounding sweet and gentle, obviously trying to comfort her. “Just be yerself and ya can have anypony ya could possibly imagine…I’m sure of it!”  She finished as now I’m sure she completely forgot why she came in here to begin with…I honestly completely forgot why I’m hiding under this table right now!  Though I don’t really want to come up to face Fluttershy at the moment!

“Y-You really mean it?” She asked sounding much better and confident, making it all the more difficult to tell if she was acting or being genuine.

“Yeah…and…I’ m sorry for…ya know…bargin in on your date and all…” Applejack apologized as I’m convinced she was going to leave soon.  Though I don’t think I want her to leave now!

“N-No it’s ok Applejack...” Fluttershy shrugged off.  Yes…really…why don’t you stay…there’s a nice plate full of food right here and I’m sure the pony who was originally sitting there won’t be back for a while!

“I’ll…jus be going now” No don’t! “…ya just focus on yer date now ya hear?  Forget bout me yellin up a storm and silly ol’ Rainbow Dash ok?” She advised as I saw her hooves walk away from the table.  No wait!  Silly ol’ Rainbow Dash doesn’t want to the focus of this date!

“T-Thanks Applejack!” Fluttershy thanked in a sincere sounding voice as I started to tremble all over.  I felt my face heat up and my heart speed up as if I was flying at top speed.  The thought of getting up to face Fluttershy right now is terrifying me!  I mean how would you feel if your fillyhood friend just said they were on a date with you…how would anypony feel about that for that matter?

“Good luck now ya hear!”  Applejack said wishing her best to Fluttershy before I saw her leave the room and eventually the restaurant.  And once again the waiter looked like he couldn’t care when Applejack passed her.

The waiter and Applejack though where officially the least of my problems now.  I had to deal with Fluttershy now and what she said quite possibly being too.  I swallowed the lump in my throat and started taking heavy breaths.  What do I say to her?  ‘Why didn’t you tell me this was a date, I could’ve made it better?’  ‘Gee Fluttershy I never expected you to be this upfront?’  'Fluttershy you should know that when it comes to dates I should be the one to make the first move?’  No!  Those are all terrible!

I swallowed another lump in my throat as I knew I had to come out now.  Oh god my heart is racing!  Grams I think I spoke too soon!  I think I really am coming to see you much earlier than I would’ve hoped for!  I slowly slunk out from under the table and took my seat once more. I took a deep breath and looked at Fluttershy.  Who was completely red to the point where I thought it was another pony sitting across from me.  Maybe that would be a good thing because I don’t know what to do!  I’ve never been in this situation!  I’d rather do the most dangerous stunt I can think of than be here!  I should’ve left with Applejack!

“Um…Fluttershy…” I started desperately trying to find anything to say, “I…ummmm….you…what you-”

“Oh Rainbow I’m so sorry!”  She apologized loudly as she put her head on the table and wept openly.  H-Huh?  “I sorry I said that!  I just had to say something and that was it!  I’m sorry!  I didn’t mean it!  I know how angry you are right now!”  Fluttershy explained between tears as she continued crying very loudly.  Angry?  I’m more relieved than angry!

“Heh…I knew it was just a lie to get her to go away…don’t worry it’s ok…I knew it all along.” I lied smugly as I felt myself return to my usual awesome self.  Grams…cancel the visit again…I think I’m going to be ok.

“R-Really?”  The yellow mare then asked surprised as she looked up with tears in her eyes although thankfully no longer flowing down the sides of her face.  The blushes on the sides of her face now significantly lower to the point where I could actually say she was yellow instead of red.

“Oh yeah…that was some great piece of acting by the way…but I know you would never say something like that and mean it.”  I answered with a brash grin, never going to admit in my entire life that a yellow Pegasus’ silly lie about dating me brought me to the brink of death.

“Oh thank goodness”  The yellow Pegasus said relieved as she put a hoof to her chest and took a deep breath to regain some of her composure, “Though…it wasn’t all a lie…” she then said as she put her hoof down and looked at me with a gentle smile on her face.

“W-W-What do you mean?”  I asked in a stutter as my fears began to come back to me as I didn’t like the looks of where this might be heading.

“W-Well…I-I wanted to talk to you about dating and romance…that’s the reason I woke you up earlier.”  She explained looking to the side a little bit.  S-So she…she woke me up to talk about me possibly dating her…w-what…so what she was talking about before really was true?

“Y-Y-You mean you actually really do want to date me?”  I then responded almost in terror as my heart began to go full throttle again.  I felt my body beginning to break out in a sweat and my breathing starting to get heavy again.  Grandma you need to cancel that previous cancellation!  I really am coming to see you now!

“N-No!  Don’t be silly!  Of course I don’t!” She denied almost in a shout as her face started to turn red again, though probably not as red as mine.  W-Wait…she doesn’t want to date me?

“Y…you don’t?”  I asked half scared and half…I…I don’t know…confused I guess…

“No!  I was talking about me dating other ponies.”  She explained as she calmed down, the blush on her face receding though I can’t really say the same for me yet.  The band behind us had finally finished their boring slow song leaving the room quiet...was a little unnerving…I think I’d prefer some type of background music as opposed to silence.

“O-Oh…” I simply said before taking a deep breath.  Once again I began to feel normal again…except there was a small twinge in my heart….what’s that about?  I hope it’s not like heart damage or anything.  Well…maybe its relief that I know fully understand this situation…that’s it right?

“Rarity lately has been pressuring me to go on dates and be in relationships with a few ponies she knows…she’s been constantly urging me to let her set everything up…but...I don’t know.”  She explained as her voice got quieter before looking down at the plate of uneaten most likely now cold food….the band behind us now starting a slow sad sounding song…oh come on!  That’s just making the atmosphere tenser!  Great, now even the band is mocking me!

“Well…why did you come to me?  Romance and dating isn’t exactly in my spectrum of coolness.”  I asked curiously as I don’t know why she would come to me of all ponies.  Twi, AJ, or hell even Pinkie would be better at this topic at me.

She smiled sweetly and tilted her head slightly, “Because you and I have known each other the longest…so of course I would want your opinion in this matter and no pony else’s…you mean that much to me and I trust you completely.”  She explained softly without a hint of shyness or uncertainty in her voice…a slight gentle twinkle in her eyes as she explained which made my heart beat rise again.

“T-Thank you…Fluttershy…” I mumbled, though in such an inaudible tone I’m sure she didn’t hear me.  To think I mean that much to her…I…ughh it’s making me feel awkward again…though not life threatening thankfully.

“I wanted to talk to you before dinner since Rarity said she wanted to set up a dinner date with me with one of her friends…but…things kind of turned out this way so I obviously can’t.”  She then went on thankfully not hearing my embarrassing words of gratitude.

“S-Sorry about that…” I apologized as I rubbed the back of my head feeling a little that I might have screwed up a possible date with Fluttershy…I…uhh…I mean a date that Fluttershy might have had with somepony else.

“No it’s ok, Rarity could always just set up another one and to be honest…I had fun...despite everything I still enjoy being here with you right now…”  She shrugged off as she smiled and blinked at me…which made the feelings even worse and I felt my face heat up again.  Despite all the weird, awkward crap that’s gone on today she still liked it?  Really?  I mean anypony else would’ve left or lost their mind…but you actually enjoyed it?  …w-what?

“I…ummm…” I started wanting to say something nice and genuine, but then realized that I would only make the situation that much more awkward, “W-Well you know…it-it is very hard not to have an enjoyable time with someone as awesome as me…so-so it makes sense you would be enjoying yourself right now!”  I smugly said half-heartedly as I tried to but couldn’t even make an awkward grin.  I thought that was awful but Fluttershy didn’t seem to mind as she giggled and nodded in agreement with me.

“So what do you think?”  The timid yellow mare then asked seemingly out of the blue without any context…looking at me with her cyan eyes glistening in the candlelight.

“What do I think about what?”  I asked wanting some clarification on what she was talking about…looking away so I couldn’t look at her eyes.

“About me dating other ponies of course!”  Fluttershy said sounding a little loud and a bit which is so unlike her, “oh…sorry…I didn’t mean to say it like that!”  She then quickly apologized lowering her head in shame which is very like her.  Once again she was bringing this awkward question up.

“Oh…well….ummm” I started trying to think of something as I looked back at her, “I…well…I completely support you no matter what…so if you want to start dating that’s perfectly fine…I’ll always be here to help you and if you get your heart broken just know I’m always ready to kick some flank!”  I then said trying to sound inspiration and supportive but sounding like a nagging parent.

“No no!”  She denied shaking her head, “I’m asking you if I should date…if you think I can deal it and be ok!”  She clarified even more now leaning towards me over the table and the plate of uneaten food.

“Bu…But that isn’t up to me…that’s something for you to decide...” I responded feeling really out of place now and wishing I could switch places with someone more useful when it comes to this topic like Twilight or even Rarity…

“Rainbow…you know how I am and how nervous I can be…I wouldn’t do this without a push…and you always push me in the right direction…you always make decisions that help me and benefit me and now I’m asking you once again to help me in what I need to do…only you can do this for me Rainbow…” Fluttershy explained almost in a pleading tone as her eyes looked at me ready to cry again.  

…D-Damn it Fluttershy…I’m awesome…but even I’m not that awesome when it comes to this!  This really isn’t me!  I can’t make a decision for you on something like this!  I really can’t make decisions for you period!  But if you need me right now I guess I could think it over.  Fluttershy dating…she’s very sensitive so it’s easy to hurt her…and hard for her to start even the simplest of relationships…and for some reason whenever I picture her with someone strange pony that twinge in my heart acts up…I guess it is permanent heart damage.  Or maybe it’s fear of what might happen to her if her relationship screws up and she gets hurt…but…it’s also good for her…I mean she needs to get in a relationships for her to be happy and…I want her to be happy…but…I…I…

“I don’t know…” I thought out load, looking down slightly feeling as though I failed her in how I couldn’t find a definite answer.  I mean how could I answer something like this?

“Huh?” The yellow mare simply responded in confustion….a very understandable response.

“I can’t give you answer…I…I just don’t know what to say to you...I can’t find an answer…I’m sorry.”  I apologized, admitting my failure and feeling even worse for admitting it.  This really isn’t my area of expertise.  This really should be something she needs to decide on her own and not me!

“We…Well…that’s ok.  You don’t need to have an answer now.  You can just give me an answer later.”  Fluttershy then advised basically making a compromise for me.  One I was actually willing to accept.

“O-Ok…I’ll think this over and get back to you on this.”  I agreed still feeling a little bad that I couldn’t tell her an answer and feeling a little pressure from how much trust and faith she’s put in me.  Hopefully I won’t have to do anything and she comes to a decision on her own.

“Great…now let’s eat.  I’m sure we’re starving.”  She then said as she looked down at the food with a smile, looking like her usual self…instantly making me feel relieved and relaxed myself.

“Yeah,” I chuckled, “It’s probably frozen solid though.”  I joked as I took a bite from the food and I was right…it was completely cold.  Although I didn’t care because I was finally at my peace of mind and knew I wouldn’t be visiting Grandma any time soon. I looked up with a slight smile on my face.

Yes Grams I know what you’re going to say, ‘If you’re going to come over, come over.  If you’re not coming over, don’t come over.  Don’t flip between the two because if I leave the welcome mat out too long it will fall through the clouds!’  Well Grams don’t worry, you can take that welcome mat back in…because I’m staying right here and I won’t be seeing you for a while.

We ate our food, mostly in silence though.  Neither one of us wanted or felt like saying anything to each other.  Though how could we after an awkward situation like that.  The food was ok; I imagine it would taste better if it wasn’t as cold as ice.  Though even it was warm I don’t think it would taste that much better.  It certainly didn’t taste high class or quality to fit the luxurious look of this place.  When we were done we wasted no time in getting up and heading to the podium to pay then leave.

At the podium where two ponies, a grey Pegasus with blonde mane and yellow eyes…that…weren’t aligned and instead cross-eyed…that’s Derpy.  And who’s she with?  It was light brown colt with a dark brown mane and blue eyes…that’s Doctor Whooves.  They looked pretty dressed up with the Doctor in a tux and Derpy in a silk dress… I guess they’re here for their dinner reservation…even though they didn’t need a dinner reservation.  A mare waiter at the podium turned around and started to lead them into them room…a normal not creepy look waiter I might add.  Lucky!  You got the normal waiter!  We got the one direct from Creepytown!  

“Hi Rainbow Dash!” The energetic grey Pegasus greeted as she raised her hoof and waved it at me…oh yay…just what I needed…a conversation with Derpy…how wonderful…well at least I get to ask her what she’s doing here with the Doctor.

“H-Hi Derpy…what are you doing here?” I greeted back with an awkward smile and a question as they walked up to us…stopping as soon as they reached us.

“Me and the Doctor are taking a little time to get something eat!” Derpy answered as she reached out and put a hoof around the Doctor’s shoulder, who preceded to smile and nod at me confirming her statement.

“What are you doing here Rainbow Dash?” She then asked as she titled her head, wondering the same thing…it’s really not her business knowing why I’m doing here….but then again it really isn’t my business to know what she’s doing here as well…so fair’s fair I guess…

“I’m…the same guess…but with Fluttershy…” I answered a bit uncertain as I rubbed the back of my head, not exactly knowing how to answer her and instead just saying that.

“Oh I understand Rainbow Dash!” She replied with a smile as she closed her eyes and nodded repeatedly…understand what?  What’s that supposed to mean?  And stop calling me by my full name all the time!

“Ummm…you don’t have to say my name all the time…and if you don’t have to say my entire name…you can just call me Rainbow or Dash…” I informed her in a dry tone as I gave her a unamused expression.  She was about to say something before the Doctor nudged her shoulder and then gestured his head towards the waiter who was patenting waiting behind us.

“Well I have dinner with the Doctor to have well I’ll see you tomorrow for weather duties Rainbow Dash!” Derpy then said as she and Doctor started to walk past us…did she just ignore what I said?  …again?  You’ve got to be freaking-no no…it’s not her fault…the Doctor probably distracted her so she didn’t hear me…calm down Rainbow Dash….I mean Rainbow or Dash!  I mean Gahhh!

“I look forward to it…” I replied darkly as I felt my eye twitch angrily, doing my best not to blow up and vent my frustrations at her.

“Bye Rainbow Dash!” She yelled as she waved goodbye to me, before turning around and heading to a table!  I gritted my teeth as it was like life wanted me to snap today!  I then felt a hoof touch my shoulder and I looked up to see Fluttershy smiling at me.

“Let’s go Dash…”  She gently said as she titled her head at me…which made all my pent up rage immediately dissipated as I gave one big sigh…now feeling calm and relaxed.

“Yeah alright.” I agreed in a much more softer tone than before as I nodded to her and we both walked up to the podium where…ughhh…unfortunately the creepy waiter was…geez I just calm down and what happens?  I get to talk to this flankhole again!

“Oh you two are finally done…I was almost ready to ask you to leave for taking too long…especially after all the commotion you two were causing.”  The waiter dryly said after he saw us walk up to the podium.  Oh bite me!  Don’t start with me!  Let’s see you go through the crap I did today!

“Yeah…sorry about all that.”  Fluttershy apologized nervously.  Don’t apologize to him!  Spit in his face!  That’s what I plan on doing!

“In any case, let me total up your bill.”  He then said as he got out his notepad and started to do calculations in his head.  You didn’t do this beforehoof!?  What were you doing this entire time!  Starring at a wall or something!?  No wait I forgot you were being a total flank…that’s right…silly me!

“I’ll pay for this Rainbow.”  Fluttershy offered as she reached into her wing to get money out to pay the bill.

“Oh no, I’m paying…I owe you a lot for many things…so this is on me and don’t give me any buts.”  I said sternly as she stopped to look at me surprised before smiling slightly and nodding in agreement.

“Go outside and wait for me, and warn me if you know who is out there.” I then said as I gestured my head towards the door behind us.  Again she nodded in agreement then turned around and left the building.   Leaving me alone with future prank victim number one through one thousand!

“And here is your total.”  He said as he bent over showing me the notepad with the bill total on it.

“Are you freaking joking!?”  I shouted immediately upon seeing it almost thinking it was a cruel prank devised by him to mess with me.

“No…” He simply said dryly as he slowly blinked again still staring at me.  That was rhetorical!  You weren’t supposed to answer that!  Especially with that answer in that fashion!

“That’s everything I have on me right now!  This place can’t be that expensive!”  I shouted angrily, getting ready to threaten him and challenge him to competition to not pay for this absurdly priced meal.

“If you have the money you better just pay it right now…” He said almost in sadistic tone as his face remained unchanged.  Damn it!  I ‘m sure he wouldn’t accept to a challenge and this would only lead me nowhere!

“Fine!”  I shouted at the top of my lungs before getting all my bits out and throwing them at him, unfortunately not getting any enjoyment from pelting his face with my money.  “Just take it all! I don’t care!”  I then shouted before turning around and leaving never planning on coming back.

“Thank you, please come again.” He thanked with a slight chuckle as I reached the door. Oh no no no!  He did not just laugh at me!

“That’s it!” I shouted as I quickly turned around, “You want a piece of me!  Fine!  But you’re not just getting that!  Oh no no!  You’re getting the whole Rainbow Dash you flankhole!  Come on let’s go!” I shouted as I gritted my teeth ready to introduce this waiter to a world of pain only someone like me can deliver.   As I opened my wings ready to charge at the future carpet stain I heard the doors behind me open.

“R-Rainbow Dash?”  I heard Fluttershy from behind me call in an soft voice which made me turn back around to face her.

“Yeah what is it!?”  I asked angrily yelling at the top of my lungs as my right eye twitched. Geez can’t you see I’m about to upgrade from property damage to violent assault!?

“Oh…ummm...s-sorry…I was just going to let you know that the coast is clear for you to come out…”  She informed a bit scared as she started to slink back behind the door, “Y-You know…whenever you feel like it.”  She finished before leaving and shutting the door.

I realized what I just did and sighed to myself, “Damn it…” I swore to myself as I turned back to get one last look at his unemotional face which seemed to be mocking me.  Oh if Fluttershy wasn’t here you wouldn’t be there right now making that face!  Out of everypony in Equestria!  You must have the best damn luck!

I looked back to the door and opened it.  Leaving the overpriced restaurant but reminding myself to find that waiter later and turn his world into a living hell he’ll never wake up from.  That’s later though, right now I looked around to find Fluttershy.  Thankfully it was much later in the day close to night so the streets were mostly empty.   I found Fluttershy near the corner of the street and then rushed over to her.

“Fluttershy!” I called out as I went up to her, making her turn around to face me with a sad expression on her face, her ears drooped down.

“Oh…are you …you know…done doing what you needed to do?” She asked politely as she looked to the ground slightly, probably wondering I delivered some righteous justice to that waiter’s face.  Oh I freaking wish!  But I’m not concerned!  I know what he looks like, he’s marked for death now, and I’ll get him later!

“Fluttershy…I’m sorry I snapped at you…things were just kind of…you know tense and I unrightfully took it out on you…” I apologized lowering my head a bit and my ears as well, feeling guilty for what I did…but not feeling guilty for almost ramming someponie’s face into the wall.

“Oh don’t worry it’s ok…I know you didn’t mean anything by it, I was just worried you would still be angry afterwards.”  She said with a smile shrugging it off in her usual manner that made my spirits rise and made me smile.  Maybe even more than the inevitable beat down I was about to give that waiter. Oh no, I’m still going to do it, Fluttershy made me feel better but I’m not joking when I say his own mother won’t be able to tell the difference between his face and his flank when I’m throw with him!

“And despite all that, I still enjoyed myself…because I was with you.”  The yellow mare then said gently as she titled her with her ears slowly popping back up, a light shade of red now starting to appear on her face which made me smile back at her…also feeling my face blush a bit as well. …ok that was enough to spare that poor waiter the beat down of the century.  Seriously, Fluttershy how do you do it?  Maybe it’s like I said earlier…that waiter has the best freaking luck in the universe or something.

“Well what are going to do now?” I then asked wonder what should do next…we still need to be avoiding Applejack…I want to avoid her for a least a good day or two…that will give her some time to cool off so we can talk without her trying to ring my neck in.

“Maybe we should go back to my place.” She offered extending her hoof out…to... I guess the general direction of her cottage.  “Applejack’s already talked to me so there’s no reason for her to go by my place to look for you.” She explained sounding really happy for some reason.  Well wouldn’t you be happy if you had an opportunity to take me home?

“That’s a great idea Fluttershy!  To your place it is!”  I agreed with a cocky grin, everything was now set in stone of how I was going to avoid Applejack.

“You know we could’ve just went there in the first place…if Applejack came over to look for you I could’ve just told her you weren’t there and she would leave…we really didn’t have to go through this…”  Fluttershy then said a bit nervously, as if a bit scared to bring this point up.  But…point it was none the less…Fluttershy managed to throw Applejack off my scent and she would’ve done so as well within the comforts of her own home.

“Yeah you’re right…and you wouldn’t have had to say those embarrassing things and I wouldn’t have had to put up with a damn waiter!”  I agreed now feeling stupid as I put a hoof to my face.  Geez!  What was thinking!  I really need to sit down more often and think about what I’m going to do instead of what just sounds good!

“It’s ok…let’s go then…I’m sure Angel Bunny is worried about me” Fluttershy said a bit concerned for the safety of her pet.  Oh crap my pet!   Tank!

“Wait…that reminds me…I have Tank to deal with…he’s still at my place and I haven’t fed him yet.”  I said thinking about what he’s doing right now.  He’s a tough tortoise…I’m sure he would be fine even with my few day absence but I’d feel better if I at least fed him.

“Well why don’t you go get him and bring him over…it shouldn’t take you that long should it?” Fluttershy suggested with a smile as she titled her head.  …yeah I could…its possible!  I could zip in as fast as I could, grab Tank, and then zip out!  It would only take ten seconds, if that!  I’m sure Applejack is still scouring the streets looking for me so it shouldn’t be that much of a problem.

“That’s a great idea Fluttershy…you go home…I’ll go to my place, grab tank, then come right over to your place…ok?”  I agreed before explaining the battle plan I shall now designate as ‘Operation:  Get Tank, Get the Hell out, and hide at Fluttershy’s until this problem with Applejack blows over!’  …I’m going to put ‘need to come up with a punchier operation name later’ to that plan as well…

“Ok…I’ll be waiting…bye Rainbow.”  The yellow Pegasus agreed with a nod as she turned around, opened her wings up, and took to the skies to return home.

I was about to do the same but I remembered the rainbow trail I always left behind and how Applejack used that to track me and almost find me.  So as much as I wanted to stretch my wings and go full throttle through the air.  I couldn’t.  I stomped on the ground a bit as I reluctantly took off from the ground but didn’t go higher than a few hooves.  I sneakily and cautiously waded through the city making sure to check every corner and street for Applejack before moving on.

I eventually made it out of Ponyville without running into her.  My hopes were high as I still remained cautious and weary weaving through bushes, haystacks, and trees.  Eventually I saw my house of clouds in the sky outside of a bush I was hiding in.  It was so close.  I decided it would be best to risk and it fly at full blast to my house in a mad dash.  I jumped out of the bush and extended my wings ready to go Full power, though not that full.  I took a deep breath as I-

“Well well well…I’d figured ya show up sooner or later!” Ah Crap!  I turned around to see a  very angry and vengeful Applejack walking up to me with a saddlebag on her back.  Damn it!  She was staking out my house!  Really!  After all this!  I still get caught!  What is the deal here!?

“Oh...umm…A-Applejack…what brings you out this fine night?”  I sheepishly asked with a nervous smile as I backed up towards my house, still ready to do a mad dash to it and fly like hell!

“Oh…nothin’ much”  She then said a bit calmly and with a smile, before turning around and getting a book out from her bag,  the book that fell through her roof, “Mind telling me what this is?” she then asked a bit light heartedly as she held the book in her mouth.

“Uh…Uh…a book?”  I replied being vague, not saying that it was mine and trying to play dumb for the time being.  I was trying to buy as much time as I could as I was now backing up even faster.

“Hmm…I see…and would ya mind telling me where it is exactly this book came from?”  She then asked nodding slightly giving off more and more creepy vibes by the second.

“Umm…t-the library?”  I sheepishly replied again as I looked back to see my house so close that I could quite literally-AHHHH!  Something bounced off my head and stung like hell!  I turned around to see the book fall right in front of me; I looked down at it for a split second.  I looked back up just in time to see Applejack tackling me to the ground.

“I know it’s a book and I know it’s from Twilight’s Library!  Mind tellin me how exactly it went through my roof though?”  She shouted as she rolled me on my stomach, got on top of me and grabbed my-AHHH!  Wing!   She was forcibly twisting my-AHHH DAMN IT!  

“Ahh!  I’m sorry I’m sorry!  I’ll never read on a cloud and accidently drop a book again!”  I apologized desperately as I hoped she wasn’t going to teAAAHHHH off my wing!

“Three floors!  Yer damn book fell through three of my floors and popped poor Grannie Smith on the head!” She explained as I felt her grip tighten on my poor wing.  Grab my legs, ears or hell anything other than my wings!  Leave my poor wings alone!  I need them to…wait…

“Really?  Three floors?”  I asked in disbelief…what kind of velocity was that book going at and why didn’t it shred into pieces upon going through multiple floors of AHHHH!!  WING!!  WING!!

“YES REALLY! So what do ya have to say for yerself huh?” Applejack angrily asked as she grabbed my other wing and started to twist it too!  Geez I don’t need a matching pair of messed upAHHH!

“I’m sorry I’m sorry!  I really am! I’ll make it up to you!”  I pleaded as I felt tears form in my eyes from how much pain my wings were in now, feeling each feather twitch in agony, especially the most important feather of them all which is where the source of the immense pain was coming from.  After I said that she thankfully loosened her grip on them.

“Oh…what are you going to do…are you going to help pay for the repairs?” She asked curiously, wondering how exactly I was going to make up for my mistake.

“Of course I will…I know I have some…money…I…could…DAMN IT!”  I started before realizing I just spent every bit I had on that stupid meal!  Remember when I said I spared that waiter a beat down of the century…I TAKE IT BACK!  HE’S SO DEAD NOW!

“Wait, Wait Wait!”  I then said as I felt her grip tighten again, “I’ll…I’ll…I’ll do all the repairs!”  I then offered trying to think of something else to repay my debt…it thankfully seemed to work as her grip loosened again.

“I swear just give me the supplies and I’ll do all the repairs myself on all the floors! I promise!” I shouted now pleading with her, pretty much ready to give her anything if it meant my poor wings would be spared!

“Oh there was no doubt in my mind you wouldn’t…so first thing tomorrow morning, I want you right and ready to work…you got that!” She said, laying out the rules of my punishment which I was perfectly willing to accept if she just let go of my wings…however there was one thing I couldn’t do.

“I can’t do that!” I said out loud without thinking of phrasing it….immediately regretting it asAHHHH!  

“Why exactly not now?” She said in angrier tone as she twisted my wing someAHHHH more.

“I have weather duty tomorrow morning!  So I can’t be there ‘first thing’ unless you want Derpy delivering your rain to you!” I explained hoping it would be enough to convince her that I couldn’t meet her demands.  Thankfully it did as she loosened her grip gain…much more than ever before which raised my spirits.  Thank Celestia Derpy is incompetent and Applejack would rather have Discord deliver the clouds instead of her!

“Alright fine…as soon as ya get off from yer cloud duties…I want you at my barn…ya go that!?”  She then said agreeing to my very reasonable request and making a counter-demand…which I was perfectly willing to agree to.

“Yes yes! I will I promise!”  I agreed nodding over and over again and to my frantic delight she let go of my wing and got off of me.

“Good…I’ll be looken forward to it Rainbow Dash…” The sadistic orange pony then said in a smug victorious tone.  I slowly got up and looked around, I couldn’t see her anywhere…it’s like she just vanished….good….

I looked back at my precious wings and found them ruffled and damaged.  Not to mention that they were in pain, especially after I flapped the ma few times.  I bit my lip at the miserable feeling but thankfully it wasn’t anything serious and nor would it inhibit my flying.  I raised my hoof and rubbed them to try and make them feel better…especially that feather.  I then sighed as I looked at the ground at the book that started this whole mess. It looked tattered and ruined…though since it fell through a house I’d be astonished if it looked like came right off a shelf.

I picked up the book with my mouth and turned around to look at my house.  So close…yet so far away.  If only I was a bit faster or maybe came a different time…I wouldn’t have had to gone through that.  Oh well…at least it’s done and over with.  I sighed against as I flapped my wings and flew up to my house.  Grunting and swearing internally at the pain.  Hopefully it will feel much better tomorrow morning.

When I entered my house I tossed the book all the way to my couch and found Tank in the center of the living room.  He slowly turned around and looked at me.  He slowly blinked a few times and tilted his head in concern.  He knew something was wrong, but it was nothing I was ready to explain in detail to him.

“Hey buddy…I kind of had a rough day…but I’m home now and it’s all over.”  I said to him hoping it would make him feel better.  “How about I get you some food?”  I then offered with a smile which made tank wag his tail very slowly.

I chuckled slightly before going into the kitchen and getting the food Fluttershy supplied me with.  I put it in his bowl and gave it to him and smiled as he happily…yet slowly ate it.  I sighed to myself as my task for the day was done now.  That meant I didn’t have to go to Fluttershy’s anymore.  My wings were starting to feel better and I knew that soon they would be back to their normal status…but I didn’t want to test it by flying all the way over there to tell her I didn’t need to stay there tonight.  I felt horrible leaving her like that, but I would have to explain it to her tomorrow at some point.  For now though…I needed some rest.

I picked up the book from the couch and headed up to my room.  I jumped into my bed relieved my day was finally over.  I looked at the book and noticed that I had to return to Twilight tomorrow.  Oh well at least that’s a quick thing to do in comparison to barn repair.  That meant though I had to finish it tonight if I want to know what happens in the end.

I lay back in my bed and opened the book.  My mind instantly went back to Fluttershy though.  Not just from me not showing up despite saying I would, but what she said at the restaurant.  All the things she said kept buzzing in my head.  I really wanted to think it over but I couldn’t at the moment. I had a book to finish.  I would think about that stuff later and help her afterwards.

I returned to the page I left off on from before I dozed off.  Then I started to question why I dozed off to begin with.  Normally a Daring Do book wouldn’t do that to me, but apparently Daring Do and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull did though.  I guess this means this is the worst book of the Daring Do series…but oh well I was just going to have have to push through to finish it.  I sighed as returned to the spot I left off.  I noticed I didn’t have much left to go which is good because that meant I could possibly get done with it and get some decent sleep before-

Aliens!?  What the hell?  This is so stupid!  No wonder I fell asleep!

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