“Ah damn it!”  I swore angrily as I rubbed my right hoof, dropping the hammer I used to accidently hit my poor hoof.

“Quit ya whining!” I heard Applejack yell from below.  I turned around to see her comfortably sitting down on a lawn chair sipping some freaking lemonade giving me a smug grin.  Oh yeah you just sit there and be comfy all while I’m up here working my flank off!  I think the next thing that falls from the sky through your roof might be a little bit bigger than a book!

“You know this is Pegasi slave labor!  I’ve been at this for hours with no breaks!  I should be filing worker’s rights lawsuits!” I screamed back furiously as I moved down the side of the barn and leaned over the edge so she could better see the anger and rage on my face.

“Yeah and while yer at it I’ll just be filling out some property damage claims…” The stupid hat wearing pony responded as she leaned back in the chair.  Unfortunately though she had a point and I groaned as I turned back around and moved my way back up to the hole in the roof.

“This is freaking ridiculous!” I shouted as I picked up the hammer and started to get back to work hammering some nails into the material to cover up the hole.

“Oh boo hoo…my whole family managed to put up a whole barn by the end of an upbeat song…surely ya can fix a roof all by lonesome!” Applejack pointed out a bit smugly…well where’s my upbeat song huh?  Huh!?

“Yeah that was your whole freaking family…that’s like an army…I’m just one awesome Pegasus…even one awesome Pegasus needs a hoof every now and again!” I retorted, reminding her of how immense her family is compared to just little old amazing me…

“Just get back to work!” She simply said dully, shrugging off my very true claim and making it clear she didn’t want to hear anything else.  I just groaned angrily as I continued working on the stupid roof.

I hate this, I’d rather be perfecting my tricks and stunts…or napping, but instead I’m doing this…and I still have to return that stupid Daring Do book to Twlight….my poor wings are going to be so rusty the next time I try to practice…I have to promise myself that tomorrow I’ll train and practice twice as hard to make up for lost time…I can’t lose my edge over something like this after all!  However, first I have to finish fixing this stupid roof, which is taking way too freaking-!

“Ahh Celestia freaking damn it!”  I shouted in pain as I dropped the hammer that I once again used to hit my poor hoof with…there needs to be a warning label on this thing!

“Ok now that was ya just bein plain stupid!” Applejack dryly commented as I looked down to see her shaking my head at me.  Yeah like I meant to do that!  

“Applejack has that clumsy Pegasus finished fixing our roof yet?” I heard a loud and angry old voice ask before I had a chance to reply to Applejack’s insult.  I looked over and saw an old lime green mare walking over with a most unpleasant look on her wrinkly face.

“Clumsy!?” I shouted back in offense as I raised an eyebrow at her.  I am not clumsy!  I just happen to have a very unfortunate accident streak!

“Don’tcha worry Grannie…she’s working on it…” AJ answered with a grin as the old earth pony walked up to her, “Right Rainbow?” She then teasingly asked as she looked up at me with that mocking grin of hers.  Oh don’t you test my patience…you’ll find I have very little of today after dealing with your barn work and the annoying useless weather team I had to work with today.

“Yeah only if you ignore the harsh working conditions and unfair treatment of a Pegasus!” I sarcastically replied as I rolled my eyes…which didn’t seem to go over well with them.

“You whine more than my little grandfilly Apple Bloom!” The old grey haired pony pointed out as she narrowed her eyes at me and pointed to me with one her hooves…well I can see where Applejack gets her delightful behavior and manners from….

“Yes insult the pony that’s fixing your roof…” I responded with a smirk as I folded my forelegs a little arrogantly…reminding her that at least I’m fixing the roof and not being a total flank and trying to hide and avoid….doing….nevermind…scratch that last thought.

“It wouldn’t have to be fixed if ya didn’t go and break it along with giving me a headache!” She replied angrily as she rubbed her head…oh it wasn’t that bad…it’s not like it creamed you into the ground or anything…it just bumped you on the head is all.

“Look I’m sorry about that!  It’s not I drop books through your roof like every freaking day!” I apologized a bit annoyed as unfolded my hooves and held them up, trying to remind her that I don’t really have a notorious reputation of dropping things…just…having a bad reputation of falling through things…

“You better not missy or else I’ll-!”

“Calm down Grannie…” Applejack said in a gentle tone, cutting her rude grandma off from finishing that rude comment.  “I got this…you just go back inside ok?” She then advised as she pointed back to the barn.  The old mare looked at her a bit doubtfully before sighing and nodding back at her with a smile.

“We’ll alright Applejack….just make sure this lazy Pegasus takes the appropriate time in fixing that there roof ok?” She agreed as she turned around and headed back to the barn.  Oh now I’m lazy huh?  I’m sorry but have you been up here for Celestia knows how many hours fixing a freaking roof?  I thought so…

“Yeah I know Grannie…” The orange slave driver replied with a nod as she waved a hoof at her grandma before she went inside…thankfully not going to bother me anymore…but I still have this annoying cowgirl to deal with at the moment…

“I still don’t get that….the floors didn’t take me that long so why am I spending so much time on fixing the freaking roof?!”  I asked annoyed as I moved some materials to cover the hole up some more.  I mean really…it took me thirty minutes tops to get the two floors below all fixed…in record breaking Rainbow Dash time I might add…but the roof…oh no it has to be done exactly to Applejack’s specifications…that picky little-

“The roof’s the most important part!  If it’s not done right then we’re going to have leaks whenever ya Pegasi ponies decide to make it lightly drizzle…and not to mention with winter comin up it’s going to be mighty cold and if it’s not properly insulated we’re goin to be feeling it!”  She explained loudly as I moved to pick up the hammer back up to start nailing the materials in.

“What you can’t deal with a little water?  Or a little cold?  To be beaten by such small things…I thought you were tougher than that AJ.”  I teased with a smile as I hammered against the materials.  It made the tedium of this work slightly more tolerable since I got a dig in at Applejack…I mean seriously I hate this and I’m  really starting to sick of this barnyard smell…clouds never smell this bad!  That’s why the life in the sky is the only life for me!

“Ya know I’d take more offense to that if you weren’t trying to hammer things in with the hammer upside down.”   She dully said back to me without the slightest hint of amusement in her voice.  I stopped what I was doing and looked at the hammer…and indeed I was trying to hammer things with the wooden end…

“It’s better this way!  It’s twenty percent cooler!” I proudly declared as I smiled and held up the hammer as if it were a trophy.  I’m not going to admit to her that I was doing it wrong…hell no…I’d think I’d sooner admit that I suck at cooking…which I don’t by the way, my cooking is awesome!

“Ya twenty percent cool and eighty percent wrong…” The earth pony replied in a snarky tone which made me look back to see her snickering.  I groaned at her before I turned back around and finished hammering.

“Eighty percent wrong my hoof!”  I proudly declared as I stood up and turned around to smile victoriously while looking at the hammer, “I managed to get it done didn’t it?  That proves that I can use it anyway I-AHHH!” I went on before screaming as I felt something rather large and painful hit my head and bounce off of it.  I rubbed the spot where it hit for a few seconds before I heard something clonk beside me on the roof.  I looked over to find the same material I used before…the same material I needed to continue to patch up the hole.

“There’s some more stuff for ya to use!” She yelled from below in an obnoxious tone.  She threw it at me!  What the hell’s her problem?

“You know my wings are still a little sore from when you locked them in your death grip last night!  I don’t need a concussion to go with it!  You could’ve just told me to come get some more stuff from down there and I could’ve…you know….flown down there to get it…you didn’t need to throw it at me!” I yelled angrily at her as I turned around and slid down the roof to the edge to get closer to her.

“It’s faster and easier for me to just throw it at ya…not to mention fun!”  Applejack responded in a teasing tone as she smiled evilly.  Oh she’s going to get it now...you don’t throw something at me and get away with it!

“You know maybe it’s not a good idea to throw stuff at somepony who’s a black belt in Karate!” I advised now grinning back at her hoping she felt threatened enough to back down.  Well on second thought I would feel horrible later if I really hurt one of my friends…this way I can give her a chance to escape.

“Oh that’s a bunch of bunk RD and ya know it…just cause ya put on a silly outfit and belt doesn make ya the Karate Filly!” Applejack said dryly as she looked at me unamused.  Damn it she didn’t take it…and unfortunately she’s right in that I’m no karate expert…I know a few moves and of course can hold my own in a fight…but I’m not exactly the Equestria Karate Champion...yet…

“I’d be more threatened if it was Rarity saying that…that girl can hit…I mean whoo wee….she really packs a punch!” Applejack then said in almost a happy tone as she smiled slightly and looked up as if recalling a memory…ok that’s kind of creepy...especially how you’re saying it…and it also slightly confuses me since she was here earlier and you talked to her for a little bit…but whatever…I’m not going to take that lying down!

“You know I am holding a hammer!  It’s a dangerous weapon mind you!” I threatened with an angry look on my face as I held the hammer up and swung it around a bit.  I’m not really for this sort of thing but if it shuts her up I’m all for it!

“Oh please…ya still holding it wrong and once again I think I’d be more threatened if somepony else was saying that!”  Applejack responded cheerfully, almost laughing even as she shook her head.  …damn it…Ok I’m just going to give her one last chance!

“Don’t make me come down there!” I shouted angrily as I tossed the hammer aside and stood up making an intimidating pose.  I was hoping that at least this would deter her but nope…of course not…Applejack couldn’t be swayed by anything especially threats.

“I actually encourage it!” She shouted back as she got up from her chair and also made an aggressive stance, “That saves me the trouble of coming up there to you!” She finished as she smiled sort of basically challenging me and asking me to do my worst.  Oh ok, now it’s on!  I tried to give you three chances to back down but you took them in stride!  I can’t back down now and at the end we’ll see who the better fighter is…which is of course me!

“Just remember!” I shouted as I unfurled my wings, “I gave you chances to back down, remember that!” I angrily yelled as I flapped my wings once and immediately got into the air.  Applejack tensed up her whole body, expecting me to charge right at her, and she was right, I was going to ram into her and take her out in one swoop of my mighty-

“R-Rainbow Dash?”

“AH!” I yelled at the top of my lungs.  A random soft voice from out of nowhere!  It scare….startle…broke my concentration and I stopped flapping my wings…making contact with the roof directly below me making a loud thud!  I shook my head and regained my composure to look up at Fluttershy flapping her wings above me.

“Fluttershy!” I shouted upon realizing who it was that…you know…broke my concentration!  She recoiled a bit from me shouting her name and looked immediately guilty for what she did.  Geez…I’m getting a flashback to yesterday…instead of my book falling on the roof I did…Oh crap!  Don’t tell me I made another hole!  I looked below me and sighed in relief as the roof was undamaged…mostly…although I’m not telling AJ about the minor damage up here because she’ll just make me fix it!

“O-Oh, I’m sorry…I didn’t mean to bother you…if-if you’re busy I could just come back later.” Fluttershy apologized as she turned around to leave.  Yep…just like Fluttershy…does nothing wrong, apologizes anyway, and then tries to leave…I opened my mouth to say something before I heard the sound of a laughing pony below me.  I looked down off the roof to see Applejack holding her gut and rolling on the floor laughing.

“Oh…Oh the Great Rainbow Dash…defeated merely by Fluttershy calling her name…that…that’s just great…and here ya…ya thought ya were…such a tough pony!” Applejack said in between laughs as her hat fell off of her from her being on the ground.  Damn it, now she’s really laughing at me. Why’d Fluttershy come here anyways?  Oh whatever, I need to put this laughing pony in her place before she says anything else to make me look bad!

“You’re going to wish you spent that time running instead of laughing because I’m going to knock you into next week!”  I threatened angrily as I stood up from my spot and once again gained air, ready to end our long rivalry with this one decisive battle and prove which one of us is better!  The orange pony’s laughter quickly died down as she slowly stood back up to face me, although nowhere near as intense as last time.  Maybe I should thank Fluttershy for getting Applejack’s guard down with her brief interruption.

“Oh dear,” …speaking of Fluttershy… “You two aren’t going to fight are you?” Fluttershy asked in concern as she flew up in front of me with her ears down and blocked my path to Applejack as she looked down at the orange earth pony.  Why did you get in front of me to look at her?  Wouldn’t it make more sense to look at me first since I’m the closest?  I really don’t feel like looking at your flank right now…o-or ever for that matter!

“No, were going to talk about the joys and wonders of apple bucking Fluttershy!” AJ answered sarcastically as she rolled her eyes, Fluttershy made a sigh of relief after she said that…really…you believed her?  I know you’re just being hopeful and optimistic but you should really be able to tell when Applejack is being blatantly sarcastic!

“Of course we were bout to fight!” Applejack then shouted angrily telling the truth finally.  Yeah, Element of Delayed Honesty…way to go Applejack…

“B-But you two can’t…you’re both friends!  Friends shouldn’t fight each other!” The yellow Pegasus declared in a worried tone as she turned around to look at me briefly before turning back around to face Applejack.

“Just because we’re friends doesn’t mean we won’t have fights every now and again…besides after I’m done roughing her up, she’ll give up and we’ll be good friends again…stuff like that is just normal for us.” I explained holding my hoof up remind her that we’re both competitive and athletic and that this sort of stuff happens numerous times.  We’re still friends afterwards though, and it’s not like this happens twenty four seven…just when she gives me lip or when I can’t back down.

“Except you got it backwards RD, it’s me who will be roughing you up…do I need to remind you what happened last night?” The orange pony teased with a grin as I remembered when she locked my wings in her death grip last night.  Oh she really does want me to beat some sense into doesn’t she?

“You just got the jump on me!  That won’t happen again!  I’ll pay you back for that and then some right now!” I angrily said as I gritted my teeth and moved away from Fluttershy to once again have a clear path from my hoof to her face!

“Bring it on RD!”  She urged on with a cocky smile, thinking she’s going to win this fight; well she definitely has another thing coming!

“No don’t!”  Fluttershy shouted, or at least loud enough that would qualify as her shouting, as she got between us again, “Please don’t fight…just…don’t!”  She pleaded as she got closer to me, to the point where our noses were almost touching.  Her quivering teal eyes staring directly into mine almost looking like they were about to shed tears.  G-Geez Fluttershy, do you really have to be this close!?  We’ve just entered awkward territory shortly about to enter creepy territory!

“O-Ok ok we won’t fight” I replied a bit nervously as I moved away from her to regain my personal space, trying to suppress the light tint of redness on my face.  I sighed to myself as I landed myself back on the roof.

Damn it…just like that…I was about to get into a heated fight and now I’m calm and submissive…just like that.  Ah, if only Fluttershy wasn’t here things might have gone their natural course.  If only she didn’t stare at me like that…it reminded me of when she convinced me to let Tank enter the pet competition…something about it just changed my mind…it did it back then and it did now.  Note to self, form some kind of countermeasures against Fluttershy and her staring…it has some kind of weird grip on me.

“Oh thank goodness.’ The yellow mare replied in relief with a sigh.  I looked down and rubbed my hoof against the roof in annoyance, my ears going down in defeat and disgust.  When I heard Applejack chuckling I immediately looked back up though, my ears going up as well.

“What’s so funny!?  You know this would’ve have happened if you didn’t throw that piece of roof at me!” I reminded her angrily as I pointed to her and then to the material lying against the roof.

“Is that true Applejack?” Fluttershy asked with a slight gasp.  Oh really?  You’re shocked that she did that?  Really?

Applejack stopped laughing and then started to look a little guilty, “Well…yeah, but she did put a hole in my roof.”  Applejack answered in defense as she looked up at Fluttershy.  Yeah and you about put a hole in my head!

“That’s no excuse to throw something at her, Rainbow Dash didn’t mean to damage your roof and besides…”  Fluttershy explained before looking a little nervous and looking away from her.  She looked at me briefly as she rubbed the side of her left foreleg with her right as she looked back at Applejack.  …oh crap she’s going to tell her about her waking me up, if she does that Applejack might put two and two together and realize that she was hiding with me at the restaurant…or come to an even worse conclusion!  I won’t let that happen.  I flapped my wings and took off from the roof.

“Besides…it really wasn’t Rainbow’s fault…it was-” She said before I put a hoof to her shoulder and cut her off, she looked at me and I shook my head at her no with a smile on my face.  I hope she gets the idea that I don’t want her to tell her that and that I’m fine with taking the blame myself.  She did thankfully as she nodded to me and look back that the now confused Applejack.

“It was an accident…and accidents do happen.” She finished not telling her the truth and just calling in an accident.  I sighed in relief slightly as I turned back around and landed on the roof and folded my wings up.  Fluttershy followed me and landed right next to me doing the same for her wings as well…for some reason…why is she sticking around?

“Yeah…you’re right Fluttershy.”  Applejack agreed as she picked up her hat and started to dust it off, geez Fluttershy; I think you missed your hidden calling as a negotiator or a diplomat…

“I’m sorry Rainbow Dash…it’s just…ya know with winter right around the corner it’s been a little hectic round here with all the harvesting, storing up for winter and what not…so I’ve been a tad bit on edge lately…” She then when onto apologize in a sincere tone as she put her hat back on and smiled at me.  Well at least she apologized…and I can understand, with winter coming us weather Pegasi have been on call a lot too for adjusting the weather…

“Don’t worry, I know how you feel…I have a ton of weather crap to do with some of the most incompetent weather teams ever put together…” I reassured as I sighed and thought about the misery I experienced this morning…for one thing Derpy said she was going to be working with me today and she didn’t!   And that’s not the worst of it!  Freaking useless ponies!

“Besides if a book landed through my roof I’d be the same way as you.” I then shrugged off in my usual awesome manner as I waved a hoof at her.  Although…if a book did land through my roof…it would take me a few minutes…patching up clouds is a simple thing compared to this…maybe I should try to convince her to get cloud roofing…easier, lighter, and efficienter….errr more efficient…nah she’d never go for that and a cloud salesman I am not.

“I’m so happy you two made up!” Fluttershy said happily I heard her clapping her hooves.  I automatically changed my focus from the now sitting back down Applejack to the happily smiling Fluttershy standing right next to me on the roof.

“What are you doing here exactly?” I asked a little suspicious as I narrowed my eyes at the canary coated mare.    She can’t just be here to see Applejack for no reason and I find it highly unlikely that she’s just stopping by for no reason like Rarity did.

“Oh…why I’m here to help!” She answered in a loud tone before leaning in closer to me, “Plus it is kind of my fault you dropped your book…so let me help…please…if you don’t mind.” She then said in a whispered as she smiled at me, pleading to me slightly.  I wanted to tell her I could deal with this on my own and that she could leave but once again after I looked into those eyes of hers I had no choice but to oblige.

“Oh alright…” I agreed somewhat reluctantly as I looked away and closed my eyes.  Geez twice in the same day, at the same location…maybe I have to start treating Fluttershy like a cockatrice and not look into her eyes.  …well no I can’t do that…she’d probably cry if I did that…I mean I think anyone would cry if an awesome pony like me didn’t look at them in the eye.

“Oh thank you Rainbow Dash…I promise I’ll do whatever I can to help you…” She thanked rather excitedly as she clapped her hooves again, I just smiled slightly as I picked up the hammer, “I mean…if that’s ok with you Applejack?” She then asked a bit nervously as she turned to face Applejack…what she needs permission to help a friend repair a roof?  Oh Fluttershy there’s a few things in this world you don’t need permission for…asking to help repair a friend’s roof isn’t one of them…I think…

“Yeah sure, the more hooves the better…plus ya can make sure RD doesn’t hold the hammer wrong again!” Applejack agreed in a teasing tone almost chuckling at what she said.  Oh is she trying to pick a fight with me again?

“Hey!” I shouted as I pointed the hammer at her, “My way is the right way!  Maybe the way you’ve been doing it all this time was the wrong way…it’s certainly the most uncool way!”  I then went on with a grin as waved the hammer around.

“Whatever works for ya RD, just fix the dang roof already.” She replied a little dryly as she rolled her eyes, giving in to what I was saying.  Ah ha!  She admits it!  I would gloat to her right now…but I really want to leave.  So instead I just gave triumphant “Heh” and turned back around to the hole in the roof.

Fluttershy grabbed the material that was thrown at me and then placed it over the hole.  I had to move it slightly to get it in the proper place but once I did I hammered away.  …The right way, not the way Applejack does it…and sure enough it was working, I was getting the nails and material into place.  After I finally got it done I took in a deep breath, when I did I didn’t catch the usual smelly barn odors, instead I smelt something…much more sweet.  I lifted my nose and took in a few more whiffs; I moved in the direction of its source and ended up getting close to Fluttershy.  She recoiled a bit, nervous and confused at what I was doing.  After a more sniffs I confirmed that it was Fluttershy that smelt really good.

“You smell great; you take a bath or something before you get here?” I asked curiously as I looked at her, which caused her to recoil a bit more as a light tint or rose appeared on her cheeks.

“W-Well…I did go to the spa before I got here…” She replied a bit softly as she struggled to look at me in the eye.  Ok now she’s having difficulty looking at me, kind of like me a little before…wait…HA!  How does it feel Fluttershy to have your gaze returned?  Feels awkward and weird doesn’t it?  HA HA! …wait I don’t think that’s something I should be happy about…oh forget it…wait now that I think about...that’s a little odd…coming from the spa to here…though she was probably there with Rarity and she was just here…I’m a little more confused but at least it explains why she smells really nice.

“Oh that explains it; you must’ve used some super expensive shampoo or something to make yourself smell that good.”  I replied as I looked down to double check that the material was firmly in place.  Which it was…I don’t know why I did it…an awesome job like mine doesn’t need to be double checked!

“A-Actually…I…I didn’t use any kind of fragrances or anything…I just…had a hot bath…” She sheepishly corrected in almost a whisper.  Oh she didn’t really have anything done…then why did she bother going…well for Rarity but still…

“Oh I guess you must naturally smell that good…I guess I didn’t notice until now because you’re the only thing that smells decent in this awful smelling place!” I said rather loudly to get Applejack’s attention and to stir her up.

“What was that!?”  It worked… “This is a farm lassie!  What did ya expect it to smell like, a garden of roses?” She angrily shouted at me as she got up from where she was sitting again, obviously taking offense to what I said…good.

“I expected it to smell like apples…it’s an apple farm after all…but instead…” I started in a teasing tone before stopping to close my eyes and take a few quick whiffs…again I was mostly smelling Fluttershy but I’m just going to pretend I didn’t and instead smelled something vile, “Instead I smell that!  I don’t even want to think about what can smell that bad and OWW!” I then continued in a teasing tone before being abruptly cut off by a solid object hitting my face and bouncing off.  I opened my eyes again to see another piece of material land right beside me.

“You threw something at me again!” I shouted angrily as I looked up at her to see her cheekily grinning face.

“Well ya deserved it for what ya said bout my farm!  Now there’s another piece get back to work!” She responded as she pointed her hoof at me.  Oh I really want to start a fight with you again but Fluttershy wouldn’t allow…so instead I’ll have her scold you again so you’ll feel guilty!

“Fluttershy did you see that!?  She’s being mean and throwing things at me again!” I pointed out as I looked at Fluttershy with a sad expression on my face…I feel like a filly complaining to their mother about a bully at school…which is ironic considering I protected Fluttershy from bullies…though that was when we were fillies…hey…that rhymes!  I’m awesome even when it comes to simple things like that!

“Oh…I…I...umm…y-yeah…sh…she did…” The yellow Pegasus replied nervously and in multiple stutters as she picked up the material and looked at it in her hooves.  Oh…thanks Fluttershy…thanks for coming to my rescue…although I can’t say I’m surprised, getting revenge on a friend for another friend isn’t exactly you…ahh forget it!

“Ugh, fine just put the material down.” I instructed in an annoyed tone as I readied my hammer.  I waited for a few seconds for the material to appear where I was looking at but instead it never came.  I looked up a blushing and nervous Fluttershy holding the material in front of her face.

“D-Do…Do you really think I …I smell good?”  Fluttershy asked, again so quietly I almost didn’t hear her.  Ugh…that’s a really awkward and weird question to ask…but I can’t say I blame her since I started it and she only wants to make sure…she is Fluttershy after all…

“Yeah roses and dandelions…you smell awesome…” I answered almost sarcastically as I rolled my eyes and waved both my fore hoofs around…she actually smells better than that but I’m still rather miffed at her for not scolding Applejack so this is the most I can do, “Can you please put the material down now?” I then asked as I moved the hammer in front of her face to remind her of the work we still have to do.

Instead a deep blush started to form on her face and she quickly moved the material in front of her face to try and hide it.  Oh come on, it’s not that embarrassing…well maybe it is but still you asked for it and I gave my answer…and why are you hiding your face when I know your blushing?  You think I’m going to forget that you’re blushing or not notice you anymore.  Again I just rolled my eyes at what Fluttershy was doing.  

“Th-Thank you…R…Rainbow.”  She thanked in a squeak as she still held the material up when she should be placing it down for me to hammer in.  I wanted to groan in annoyance but I couldn’t.  Despite how annoying this was she couldn’t help it…confidence is not really her strong suit and if she receives a compliment like this she’s bound to freeze up at some point.  If only she was like me where she accepted compliments every day and basked in them…but then again we all can’t be me and be one hundred percent awesome.

“Yeah yeah, are you going to put the thing down now?” I asked as I once again looked down and readied my hammer.  And again after a few seconds I looked back up to see her the way I left her, sitting there with it in front of her face, “Fluttershy!” I yelled loudly to snap her out of it…which thankfully worked as she eeped and almost dropped it.

“S-Sorry!” She quickly apologized as she thankfully put it down over the now diminishing hole.  I readjusted it accordingly and went back to hammering.  This one was being a little more difficult than the rest…and it’s not because I’m holding the hammer the right way…it’s just being a pain for some reason.  It was taking so long that Fluttershy was starting to yawn.

“Ya ok Fluttershy?” Applejack asked in concern as he noticed her yawning.  Oh you notice her yawning but you don’t notice or say anything when she’s being embarrassed… how very selective of you Applejack!

“Yeah…I’m just tired…” She responded looking down and smiling at her.  I wasn’t going to engage in this idle chit chat, I just focused on hammering and getting this done so I could get the hell out of here!

“Oh I get it…that must mean ya had an amazing date last night right?” Applejack then asked in a rather weird tone as she arched an eyebrow up….what is she-oh crap!  

She still thinks that Fluttershy was on a date last night instead of helping me hide.  I don’t want her to know that because she will either:  A, be angry that she lied to her and helped hide me or B, come to a conclusion so wrong I don’t even want to think about it!  I shot a look up at Fluttershy and hoped she would get that I didn’t want her to tell the truth.  She caught my glimpse and slightly nodded to me…I don’t know if she thinks she should tell the truth or keep the lie up…I hope it’s the ‘Don’t spill the beans to Applejack’ decision!

“Well…it was a pretty good date…” Fluttershy responded with a nervous smile which made me tense up.  No!  Don’t tell her that!  Tell her it was awful or something and that you didn’t like it!  Don’t tell her that!  That’s really weird and awkward!  Especially since it was me there and not some random pony!  Well it would be even more strange if it was a random because…because…ahh just drop it!  Just don’t say anything else!  Celestia stop time for me please!

“Oh I get it…no wonder you look tired…up all night doing…ya know what…” Applejack then said insinuating that…that Fluttershy…oh Celestia that’s awful!  Don’t think about your friends sleeping with other ponies Applejack!  That’s just weird…especially when it comes to Fluttershy!  Come on do you really think Fluttershy would do that sort of thing on a first date…or at all!  I mean come on!

“Well…I don’t really know what you mean…” Fluttershy responded in all of her innocence as she put a hoof to her chin to think it over.  Of course…she wouldn’t understand sexual innuendo…how could she?  She’s Fluttershy for Celestia’s sake!  

“But we didn’t do anything at all because they didn’t come home with me after the dinner.”  She then said telling her what happened afterwards…not saying it was me but putting me on edge for multiple reasons…most notably that Applejack could put the pieces together and figure out it was me…then I’m ruined…rumors and gossip will spread and both my and Fluttershy’s reputation will be trashed for good…especially mine since I know there’s already a few rumors floating around about my sexuality!  I don’t want them to get worse!

“What?  Somepony took ya out to a fancy meal and didn bother to take ya home?” Applejack replied sounding upset and offended.  …oh great…instead of putting the pieces together she’s just making me feel bad…reminding me of how I was supposed to go to her house and I didn’t…and…that’s why she’s tired…great…now that’s just what I needed, guilt!  Thanks Applejack for unknowingly make me feel like a jerk and ashamed to call myself the Element of Loyalty…no really thanks…

“W-Well…no…they said they would meet up with me after they did something…and…they never showed up.” Fluttershy explained honestly, sounding a little sad and regretful for sharing this information…she must know it’s going to make me feel bad…and…she’s right…I feel absolutely terrible now and I’m finding difficult to hammer in the nails to fix this roof because of how I feel.  I want to desperately apologize to her but couldn’t in risk of Applejack over hearing us.

“That’s just plum unacceptable!  If ya see this pony again ya should buck him to next harvest season!” Applejack declared loudly and clearly angry.  Yeah you’re not helping Applejack!  And do you really think Fluttershy would do that to anypony?

I just finished hammering in the last few nails and I couldn’t take it anymore…I had to apologize to her somehow… “W-Well…I’m sure whoever they are…they’re very sorry and regret not coming to see Fluttershy when they said they would…” I finally said speaking up and making a disguised apology as I looked up from the finished material.  She looked back and smiled at me, making a slight nod accepting my apology and-

“OW!” I screamed out load as I felt yet another piece of material bounce off of my head, “QUIT THROWING STUFF AT ME!” I shouted at the top of my lungs as I rubbed the back of my head and turned around to see Applejack with a pissed off look on her face

“Quit defending that low life, I figured out of everypony you would be the most upset and infuriated, but instead yer defending him!”  Applejack replied fuming as she thought I was defending some random pony instead of myself.  Of course I can’t say it was me…but I can’t seem like I don’t care about Fluttershy to Apple…wait why does she think I’d be the most upset over something like this?  Oh whatever, she’s angry and logic goes out the window when you’re angry.

“I’m not defending…this pony…I’m just trying to make Fluttershy feel better…and did you really have to throw that at me?”   I responded trying to remain calm because I know if I blow up I’m going to say something that will put both me and Fluttershy in an awkward situation.

“Y-Yeah Applejack…” Fluttershy agreed, which made me turn to see her picking up the material from where it landed, “It…It didn’t call for you to do this…” She finished sounding like she was scolding her…oh now you defend me!?  Where were you when I needed you the last time huh?  HUH?  Ahhh forget it!

“Aw shucks…you’re right again Fluttershy…” I heard Applejack admit in defeat, I turned my head aback around to see her rubbing her hoof in the dirt guiltily, “I just lost my temper again RD…I’m sorry…I promise I won’t do it again…I mean I can’t…that’s the last piece of material…” She then went on to apologize as she looked up and smiled at…wait did she say the last piece?  I’m almost done!  Oh Thank Celestia!

“Sweet this is the last piece!  Quick Fluttershy put it over the hole so we can be done!”  I said excitedly as I ignored Applejack’s apology and practically ordered Fluttershy to put the piece in place.  She just blinked at me a few times before nodding and putting the piece down.    I readjusted it so it fully covered the hole and started to nail it down.  I need to get this done before I feel more guilty...the sooner I get done the sooner I get out of here!

“It just burns me in every way imaginable that some pony would take Fluttershy to that fancy restaurant and then just stand her up later!  Who in Equestria would do something like that?” Applejack then went on ranting about this strange horrible pony…me…apparently I would do something like that!  I’m hammering as fast as I can!  So can you please shut up for a few minutes so I can get this done?  

“Oh…it…it’s really not a big deal Applejack…” Fluttershy replied a little nervously as she tried to calm her down.  Yeah you heard the mare!  It’s not a big deal so just drop it already!  Damn it!  Why can’t I nail these stupid things faster than I am!  I’m the fastest flier in all of Equestria and I can’t nail some simple nails into this roof in record time!  Come on Rainbow Dash get in the game!

“No Fluttershy it is a big deal…a HUGE deal!” Shut up shut up shut up shut up! “That’s like one of the worst things ya can do to a pony!” No it isn’t shut up!  You’re sounding like Rarity! “Just tell me this pony’s name so I can find em and give em a stern talking to if ya know what I mean!” Applejack threatened demanding the name of the pony she thinks left Fluttershy hanging.  I stopped hammering, just a few nails short and looked up at Fluttershy to see her reaction….it wasn’t good…she looked nervous and fearful…not knowing what to do…crap…I have to do something to change the subject and now!

“Hey Fluttershy!”  I called in a shout to get her and Applejack’s attention.  “After we're done with this you want to come over to my place…to…you know…hang out?”  I asked a bit nervously as I’ve never really invited other ponies to my home before…not even Fluttershy…but it was the only thing I could think of…at least this way I could make it up to Fluttershy for not showing up when I said I would.

“Why….I…umm…” The timid Pegasus stuttered in shock as she didn’t know what to think of my offer…which isn’t really that surprising…I mean if the great Rainbow Dash invited you to come to her home what would you do?  …that’s what I thought!

“Well whoo wee…I never thought I’d see the day when Dash would invite somepony to her unhumble abode!” The farm pony commented excitedly, just as surprised if not more surprised than Fluttershy…just able to put her shock into words unlike Fluttershy…and really…did you really have to say that about my house?   If anyplace is unhumble and unpleasant it’s this place!

“Well…it’s not like I can invite everypony to my house…it’s a cloud house after all and only Pegasi can walk on clouds so of course only Pegasi can enter my house…if everypony could walk on clouds I’d invite ponies to come over every day!”  I reminded Applejack with almost a smug tone as I was proud to tell other ponies of the Pegasi pony’s special abilities that other ponies don’t have…even though…technically…a lot of places in my house has solid flooring for Tank…and…Twilight could always use that spell so any pony can walk on clouds for a short time…whatever I still wanted to remind her about it!

“Yeah Yeah Rainbow Ah know that…Ah’m not dumb” Could’ve fooled me! “It’s just ya never invite ponies to yer place even if they were Pegasus ponies…so it’s still a big shocker.” She replied still stating how rare it is for me to invite ponies over.  Yeah it also doesn’t help that I’m always out and about and rarely home…this might actually be the first time I actually have a guest now that I think about it…this could actually be interesting!

“Well…it’s a special occasion…I feel bad for Fluttershy…I mean the nerve of that pony…I mean come on…” I said trying to sound like I’m on Applejack’s side and trying to support Fluttershy because of her problem instead of trying to amend the problem that I caused myself.

“So what do you say?  You up to spend some time at the most awesome house with the most awesome pony?” I asked in an overconfident tone as I looked at Fluttershy and made a cocky smile.

“Well...I-I don’t know…” Fluttershy replied in an unsure tone as she looked down at the material she was still holding, drooping her ears down as well.  Oh come on you can’t possibly say no to an offer like that?  You just can’t!  I just know you’re being shy and will eventually break down and agree…

“Better take her offer while ya can sugar cube...something like that won’t exactly happen again so it’s best to take it now!”  AJ encouraged in a supportive tone, urging her to agree.  See, even Applejack knows this is an awesome offer you can’t refuse!

“Well…ok, if Rainbow Dash says it’s fine then I will.”  The yellow mare agreed finally with a smile and a nod, her ears going back up as well.  See, I told you that you would eventually break down and agree!  Rainbow Dash one Fluttershy zero…Applejack negative thirty just because I say so!

“Great, we’re going to have an awesome time at my place!”  I said excitedly as I was mostly finished with the hammering and had one nail left to go.  I opened my wings in anticipation of the impending completion.

“Yay…” I heard her cheer in a quiet whisper.  I sighed and focused on getting the last nail into this stupid roof so I could be done with it.

“Oh, sorry…did I cheer too loudly again?” She apologized as she worried that her meek voice caused harm.  I didn’t even bother to answer that question; instead I finished hammering the last nail and finally got done fixing this stupid roof!

“Ah ha!  Finally done!”  I proudly declared as I tossed the hammer aside and flew into the air to a do some celebratory laps around the barn.  I’m finally free of this nightmare!  I swear I never want to see a solid roof for as long as I live!

“Great!  Lemme see it!”  Applejack asked as she waved her hoof over to her for me to pick her up and raise her so she could see the roof.  I stopped my circle right above her and looked over to the roof one last time to make sure I was really done.  Thankfully the hole was completely covered up; it was like it was never ever happened.  …Unfortunately though there was some minor damage from where I feel earlier…

“Yeahhhh…sure…” I agreed reluctantly and a little nervously as I looked at Fluttershy and gestured my head to where the light damage was.  She thankfully got the hint as she nodded lightly and slid down the roof to where it was and laid down over it to hide it.  I smiled and nodded back as I flew down to where Applejack was.

“Look at your awesome new roof!”  I said proudly as I grabbed her and started to lift her in the air…which was slightly more difficult than I thought it was going to be.  Either she gained weight…possible…or my wings were getting weaker from my lack of exercise…a full twenty four hours will no flying practice will do that to you…anyways I still managed to lift her up above her roof with no real problems so she could see her roof.

“Well…I have to admit…even though ya were using the hammer wrong…ya still did a pretty good job…” She complimented as she looked over the roof…not noticing the spot directly underneath Fluttershy thankfully.  Whew, which means I can now get the hell out of here!

“Of course!” I declared as I lowered us down to the ground, “Your roof’s now twenty percent cooler!  And was there any doubt?  I mean come on?  Look who you’re talking to!  I can do anything and be awesome at it!”  I gloated with a grin as I set her on the ground and continued to hover above her.  Raising my hoof after I landed and looking at it just to make myself look that much cooler.  

“Yeah yeah, whatever you say RD…” She said in annoyance as she rolled her eyes at me, meanwhile Fluttershy got off the roof and flew down slowly towards me, “Better thank Fluttershy for helping ya though…you might still be working if it weren’t for her…” Applejack then said with a smile as she reminded me of the yellow mare’s assistance.

“Yeah I know…but I’m already thanking her by having her over at my house so that should be good enough right?” I pointed out as I looked at Fluttershy as she hovered in place next to me.

“Oh yes…it’s more than enough…” She agreed with a smile and a nod which made me smile back because that meant AJ would get off my case for the first time today.

“Alrighty then…ya two get on out of here…and make sure this pony don damage anymore roofs!” She said teasingly as she looked at Fluttershy and pointed at me.  Fluttershy merely nodding at what she said.  Hey!  I’m not a little filly for Fluttershy to look over and besides, if she didn’t wake me up there wouldn’t be any hole in your roof!  Not my fault!

“Whatever let’s just get out of here Fluttershy!” I said with a sneer as I turned around and immediately took of not waiting for an answer like usual…although I think I heard Applejack say something like ‘Wait!’ before I flew off…yeah right…I just got free from her grips and I’m not sticking around any longer than I have to…I still have to return that book to Twilight before I…Oh crap!

I immediately stopped midflight before I got any further away from the barn, “The Book!  I forgot that OWWW!” I began before shouting in pain as I felt something bounce off my head yet again!  I turned around to see Fluttershy flying forward with her hooves extended; she caught the object that hit me…which turned out to be book I forgot.  Fluttershy then moved out of the way as smirking orange pony walked up on the trail leading from her barn.

“Ya forget something!?” She smugly said as she trotted up to us and stopped when she got underneath us.

“I TOLD YOU TO STOP THROWING STUFF AT ME!” I shouted at the top of my lungs as this was now the fourth time she threw something at me!  I’m pretty sure I’m going to have brain damage later because of this!

“Don’t worry I won’t…we’re even now…”  She responded as she waved her hoof at me dismissively.  Are you freaking kidding me?

“Even!  Last time I checked I only broke one roof!  That doesn’t give you the right to break my skull with four objects!”  I yelled at her, calling her out on her bad math and getting ready to charge at her to get some vengeance.  Unfortunately though Fluttershy saw this and once again flew right in-between us so I couldn’t do anything!  Damn you Fluttershy and your nonviolent nature!

“Yeah but you also broke two floors and popped poor Grannie Smith on the head…so that’s four…so like I said…we’re even now…” Applejack corrected with a smile as she raised her hoof…damn it she’s right…I guess that does make us even.  I sighed as I calmed down upon realizing this.  Fluttershy saw this and moved away knowing I wasn’t going to do anything.

“Whatever…no more throwing things at me…you throw something at me one more time I throw you through a wall!”  I warned as I folded my forelegs and looked away, admitting defeat…unfortunately…next time AJ…next time…

“That’s a deal partner…”  She responded with a nod.  I didn’t say anything and instead turned around and bolted away at top speed.

I didn’t want to stick around; I didn’t want to risk her throwing something at me again.  I know she’s honest…I mean that’s her element after all…but I’m not taking any chances you know.   Plus as I looked at the setting sun I wanted to get that book over to…Twilight’s...as…soon…as…DAMN IT!  I stopped in midflight again…thankfully not being hit this time.  I turned around and saw Fluttershy flying as fast as she could to catch up to me…a speed which I would consider to be ‘cruising speed’…but for her it’s her top speed.

“S-Sorry…I…I can’t keep up with you…” She said apologetically as she tried to catch her breath, the book in her hooves thankfully.  Wow, she wasn’t flying at her top speed for that long and she’s already out of breath…this girl’s really out of shape when it comes to flying…that or she’s really worrying about trying to keep up with me and hyperventilating…I’d believe either to be honest…

“Nah…it’s ok…I know you’re not much a flyer” I said reassuringly and with a smile.  Yeah even though you’re a Pegasus and should at least be a decent flying for Celestia’s sake!  No I shouldn’t say that about Fluttershy…if she was a strong flier then I don’t think she would find her calling of being an animal caretaker…and she’s awesome at that…I’d never have Tank without her…so I take that statement back…plus she can be a great flyer at times when she tries hard enough…so not only do I take it back it’s also wrong…

“So I’ll just slow down for you so you can keep up…”  I then reluctantly said with a sigh as flying slow at the moment…wasn’t really the thing I wanted to do…flying slow isn’t really something I want to do ever.

“N-No that’s ok…just go on ahead and I’ll eventually catch up…it’s not like I can lose track of you…you leave a rainbow trail where ever you fly.”  She refused with a slight stutter as she shook her head.  

I briefly turned around to look at my tail and I wanted to laugh slightly…because of the rainbow I leave behind Applejack was able to know the direction of where I went and now because of it Fluttershy will know where I’m going…the trail doesn’t last long at all but these two ponies are still able to track me because of it…I don’t know whether to be proud for this achievement or concerned that if I’m trying to lose somepony they’ll always be able to know where I’m going…ahh I’d never try to lose somepony…I’d just deal with them face to face than run away so whatever.

“No it’s ok…I can take it slow today…let’s just drop that book off and then go back to my place.” I responded with another sigh as I turned around and stated to…very…very slowly…fly towards the library.  I’m making a mental note right now to train twice…no…thrice as hard tomorrow to make up for all the lost time…unfortunately though that means no naps tomorrow…ughhh…damn it!

Fluttershy didn’t say anything and just followed right alongside me at her normal speed…which for me was almost like walking.  Seriously the pace I’m going at I might as well be flying backwards!  I sighed once again as I turned my head to see Celestia’s sun completely gone and Luna’s moon out in full force.  I think if Fluttershy wasn’t with me I’d have flown to the library and back three times by now…I mean all I want to do is just break out into a mad dash but I can’t with Fluttershy next to me…and I can’t just abandon her like last night…I don’t think I could ever live it down.

“Fl-Fluttershy…” I called a bit nervously as we started to fly above Ponyville, “I-I’m sorry about last night…I was going to come over but…Applejack kind of caught me and I thought I didn’t need to come over after that…but I should’ve told you and...I didn’t…I’m sorry…” I apologized as I lowered my head and my ears feeling ashamed…I know I apologized earlier, but that wasn’t a real apology since I had to disguise it…now I really did apologize to her.

“Oh Dash its ok, no harm done...” She replied sweetly, shrugging off the apology in her typical manner.  I think I could destroy her house, scare all her animals, and call her hideous and she’d still forgive me…I don’t think that Pegasus can ever hold a grudge…

“There was harm done…you said you stayed up late last night waiting for me…and now you’re tired because of it.” I reminded her as we approached the library…decreasing our altitude so we could land right in front of it.

“It’s nothing a good night’s rest won’t fix…so don’t worry about me.” She continued in a sweet dismissive tone as I landed right in front of the front door…Fluttershy still slightly airborne due to the fact that she was holding on to the book with her front hooves and therefore unable to land.

“Yeah I but I still feel horrible…” I continued as I held my hoof out to... “Hey why’s the door locked?” I declared after I tried opening the door and it wouldn’t budge.

“Oh…R-Right…I forgot…” Fluttershy commented as I looked back to see her giving a nervous grin as she held the book in her hooves.

“Forget what?”  I asked curiously as I arched an eyebrow…don’t’ tell me Twi’s left to go somewhere or whatever without us!

“S-She said she got an urgent letter from the Princess and had to go immediately to see her.” The canary Pegasus explained as she looked down at the book in her hooves…you know you could’ve told me this sooner…it would’ve saved me…ummm…something I guess…I don’t know…but wait…she got an urgent message from the Princess and didn’t bother telling us about it?  Just Fluttershy?

“Why didn’t she tell us!   What if it’s something horrible or dangerous and she needs our help!”  I asked frantically as I was worried for the safe of my Alicorn friend…she knows that she can always count on us to help her for anything!

“She just wanted to go on her own…she didn’t want to bother us about it and make us go if it’s nothing…” Fluttershy answered as she recoiled a bit in fear and what seemed like a bit of guilt as well…oh I bet she wanted to go with her but she said no…of course…

“But what if it’s not nothing?  What if it’s something life threatening and she’s in trouble right now!?” I almost shouted in terror as I took off from the ground, ready to rush over to Canterlot in ten seconds flat to save Twilight from…whatever it is she needed saving from…

“I’m sure she’ll be fine Dash…calm down…if it was that important she would’ve came to us…” The cyan eyed Pegasus said soothingly before putting the book in her mouth…then flying up to me and pushing me back down to the ground to try and relax my nerves.  “Besides she said it was probably something about her being a princess…nothing to be worried about…” She then said after she moved away and took the book out of her mouth…yeah…that would make sense I guess…

“She’ll be back soon…most likely tomorrow…you’ll see…” Fluttershy then finished in a cheerful tone as she smiled at me…yeah…she’s right…damn…that’s like what…the third or fourth time she’s calmed me down now?  Score four Fluttershy…

“Alright…well if she isn’t home…then I guess I’ll just leave it here…” I replied with a sigh as I reached up and grabbed the book out from Fluttershy’s hooves with my mouth.  Then I turned around and placed it at the doorstep so she could pick it up whenever she got home.  I looked at the book briefly…it looked horrible…it went through a roof and then bounced off my head…so it looked perfect I’d be surprised…but that’s not the point right now…

“Alright let’s get out of here…” I then said as I turned around and flapped my wings to get some air underneath me.  Fluttershy merely nodded and we both took off…at Fluttershy’s pace unfortunately…towards my awesomely humble abode in the clouds…the exact opposite of what that smug earth pony said earlier!

Of course since we were going at Fluttershy’s speed it did take longer than usual….a lot longer.  But we eventually arrived at my floating cloud home.  When I landed in front of my front door I turned around to make sure Fluttershy was safely on the clouds and not…going through the clouds.  Which she wasn’t, she was safely on the clouds and it was silly for me to worry since she’s a fellow Pegasus and can’t fall through the clouds…but I can’t really help it.  It’s only natural for me to make sure my friends aren’t falling through the clouds…especially since it’s my home and I’m not used to having visitors…but whatever, she’s fine and I turned around to put my hoof on my door.

“Welcome to my awesome cool tower of radicalness known as my home!”  I proudly declared with a huge grin on my face as I opened the door, “Go on in and bask in its glory…go ahead, you deserve it!” I then said as moved out of the way and gestured my hoof for her to enter.  She smiled and nodded before entering and I in return walked in after her and shut the door behind me.

“Oh wow, it’s really nice in here.” She complimented in as she looked around my house in awe…I mean who wouldn’t right?  It’s an awesome cloud house with solid flooring, cloud made furniture, a kitchen, living room, my bedroom…it’s got it all!  What more could a pony ask for?

“It’s also much cleaner than I expected…” She then said as she walked over to the fluffy couch in the center of the living room.  …Did she expect my house to be filthy or something?

“What’s that supposed to mean?” I asked in a slightly aggravated tone as I took offense to what she said.

“Oh no no no, I didn’t mean it like that!” She replied slightly nervous as she turned around with regret in her teal eyes.  Oh really?  What the hell did you mean then huh?

“It’s just…it’s just way too clean…it’s almost as if I walked into a new house…I expected there to be stuff lying around or signs of somepony living here…but honestly if I didn’t know any better I would never guess that a pony and a tortoise lived here…” She explained as she once again looked around my house.

I…honestly didn’t expect her to say that.  I wanted to say something back but I too looked around my house and noticed how…empty it was.  I mean there’s a couch a chair or two and a stand with a light…and…that’s it.  It really does seem lifeless doesn’t it?  I’m never really home that often though if at all...and if I am most of the time I’m in my room.  My room is filled with stuff…all my personal stuff, even Tank sleeps there…maybe I should show her my room…although…it’s completely messy…stuff is just lying around without a care since I always toss it aside when I get home.  I don’t know if I should show her my room because of that…I don’t know if I should make her think that I live in a completely empty house or if I live in my completely messy room.

“Well…wh-what can I say…I’m not home that often to mess it up I guess?”  I sheepishly replied as I rubbed the back of my head a bit nervous.  

I feel a little sad now…my house interior doesn’t reflect my awesomeness to guests coming in…but…I never have guests so maybe this isn’t a problem…I mean Fluttershy is the first pony to enter my house…she’s the first outside creature to enter my house outside of Gilda and of course Tank.  I’m going to make a mental note to redecorate my house sometime later to fix this…I mean if I join the Wonderbolts and have them over I want to impress them and not have a dull house like this.  

I’ll have Fluttershy help me since she’s really the only pony that can unless I get Twilight to do that spell again…but now I’m really getting ahead of myself…I have to focus on right now and right now I have to host Fluttershy and make her happy…that should be easy right?   Yeah so I should…ummm…ahhhh…crap…what does everypony else offer me when I go into their house…uhhh…hmm...A…A Drink!  Yes that’s it!

“C-Can you want something to drink Fluttershy?” I offered a bit uncertain as this whole experience was new to me…again I have to fix this later for the Wonderbolts so this really is good practice…maybe I should have Fluttershy over more often so I can practice at being an awesome host.

“Why yes, water would be lovely Rainbow…” She replied as she sat down on my couch and looked at me with a smile.  Great!  Water….simple and easy…no problem!

“Be right back then.”  I replied with my confidence back as I turned and entered the kitchen.  

I looked around and thankfully noticed that it’s not as empty and lifeless as my living room…it has a few dirty dishes in the solid sink and a few items of old food on the counter…which I need to clean later but again that’s later...although honestly…my kitchen still needs to be about twenty percent cooler.  Though it still needs to be about twenty percent cooler...but again I’ll fix that later.

I walked over and grabbed a glass out from one of the kitchen’s cabinets and went to go fill it with water from the sink.  I didn’t have a faucet; instead I had a small raincloud which poured fresh rain water.  It’s delicious, nothing else like it…in fact I’m going to have a glass myself!  I turned around and grabbed another glass for myself.  Since I was now holding a glass with each of my hooves I was now slightly hovering with my wings so I wouldn’t fall on my face.  I returned to the sink and I lightly tapped the cloud to make the water come out and I moved each glass under it to fill it with water.  Once they were filled I turned around to leave, the small cloud was stop automatically and whatever water it dripped that went down the drain would just be purified and returned back to the cloud…got to love Pegasi ingenuity.

When I entered the living room again I found Fluttershy on the cloud couch… bouncing up and down slightly with a big smile on her face like she’s riding it.  Ok that’s both stupid and…well…ummm…maybe…sort of…kind of…a little bit…only very slightly…ummm…c-cute…I just blushed at the fact that I  just thought of that.  Not because of I’m thinking that one of my friends is…you know that…well maybe somewhat…but I’m more blushing because I just thought of the word cute…something that’s not really in my nature…but still I had to admit…Fluttershy happily bouncing on my couch is kind of cute….it’s almost hard to believe that girl is over two years older than me.

“Having fun there?” I asked in a tease and with a smile as I flew up to her.  Causing her to gasp and stop immediately.

“Oh I’m sorry…I just…ummm” She tried to reply as her eyes went wide and she looked away, an obvious tint of red appearing on her cheeks…yeah I’d be embarrassed too if somepony caught me doing that on their couch….

“Which one of us is the older one again?” I questioned in a tease as I flew up to her and slightly above the couch with a smirk on my face.  For somepony whose older than me and supposedly more mature than me…that was really something a foal would do!

“S-Sorry…It’s…It’s just…it’s been a long time…since…you know... I’ve been on cloud made furniture and…I forgot how much fun they can be…” She then explained still embarrassed as she continued looking away.  I laughed slightly as I landed on the couch next to her.  I can see that…she’s rarely goes to Cloudsdale…if at all…and she never really lays down on clouds…so this is probably the first time in who knows how long she’s sat on a genuine cloud made couch.

“Yeah I know….even I sometimes forget how awesome these things are!” I agreed as I started to bounce on the couch as well, “If you want I could get you some furniture like this…to you know…remind you of your hometown…or better yet I could get you a cloud house like me and could be neighbors or something!”  I suggested as I started to get excited that I would have a neighbor for the first time…I knew she wouldn’t do it but the thought it still awesome to have.

“Oh that’s a really nice offer Rainbow…but…I’m fine thank you…I think I still prefer solid cushion and fluff thank you…and you know I could never leave my animal friends to live back in the clouds.” She replied with a smile as she looked back me, the blush gone from her face, denying my request like I knew she would.

“Yeah, I know…I was just...you know…kidding.” I replied a bit softly as I looked down at the glasses of water in my hoof.  What’s wrong with me?  I knew she would say that and expected her to…but…why am I so disappointed in hearing her say that?  Why do I feel sad?  Do I really want a neighbor that badly?  Maybe I should move my cloud house closer to Ponyville…that could work.

I shook my head and raised a glass of water up to her, “Here’s your water Fluttershy…” I said with a smile trying to get my thoughts clear and free from any hint of disappointment.

“Oh why thank you!” She thanked pleasantly as she took the glass and started to sip on the water.  I looked down and did the same…though it wasn’t a sip but a gulp…and you know what?  …it was delicious as always.

“Mmm…It’s really good…” She complimented as she made a sound of pleasure…which reminded me of earlier when Applejack said about Fluttershy putting it out on a first da-AHH!  Why am I thinking about that!?  Of all the things to think of that thought pops into my head!  Damn you AJ!  Ok ok, don’t think about it…just continue the conversation.

“Y-Yeah, Fresh Rain water…what did you expect?” I asked in return as I fought the sensation on my cheeks telling me I was about to blush…AJ we are not even anymore!  I’m going to get back at you for this…somehow!

Fluttershy didn’t respond, she was too busy taking another sip from her water.  I did the same, again taking a big gulp rather than a small sip.  My water was now half gone, I looked over and noticed she barely had any of hers…what a slow drinker.  I opened my mouth to say something but realized I didn’t know what to talk about…what is there to talk about?  Oh come on Dash!  You’re a terrible host if you can’t make idle conversation with one of your friends!  Don’t make it about you though…as hard as it is…ummm…

“So how are your animals?” I asked in a curious tone which caused her to look back up at me in surprise, obviously not expecting me to ask that question.

“It…It’s getting close to winter so…so most of them are hibernating now.  The few that are left are preparing to hibernate; I don’t really help them hibernate, just when they need it.  But I do need to help Angel with his hibernation soon…” She answered a bit nervously at first but then getting more confident as she went along.

“Yeah that’s right…” I replied as I forgot that Fluttershy must’ve been busy with all those animals, I myself have to deal with animals soon, “In a few days I have to take the birds down south for the winter…” I then finished as I remembered the duty that Pegasi have to do when the seasons change….and also loathing it because I’ll have to deal with an incompetent weather team most likely…and Cloud Kicker…ughhh that mare…a pain in my flank every time I see her…

“I hope you’ll be ok and have a safe trip Rainbow…” Fluttershy said in a worried tone, oh there she goes again…being scared for me when it’s really no big deal.

“I’ll be fine…I’ve done this for what…three or four years now?  I’m used to it…besides I’ll get to swing by Rio De Jemareo like I usually do and have some of my usual fun…” I said nonchalantly shrugging her concern off as I also remembered of the fun times I usually have there after I’m done escorting the birds…mostly of the cider kind admittedly…can’t wait to see Black Scotch again…he’s probably dreading the day I return to his bar…too bad though!

“I know, but I still worry…you know me…” The yellow Pegasus replied a bit ashamed as she looked down and took another sip from her water.  Yeah I do…if I were to walk over and slightly stub my hoof on a door or something she’d worry and act like my whole leg was amputated…that’s just how she is…

“Hey Fluttershy…” I called her, which made her look back up at me with her teal eyes quivering slightly, “You always stay behind and take care of the animals and you never once helped to migrate the birds…I thought that would be something you’d be fully up for?  I mean I know you have to wake up the animals but you never thought about helping the weather team get the birds afterwards, why?” I asked curiously as I titled my head a bit, recalling all the Winter Wrap ups we’ve had and she always being on the animal team…which makes sense knowing her but thanks to Twilight and her schedule the animals are mostly woken up before I send some fliers to retrieve the birds…and Fluttershy never volunteers for it when you think she would.

“Oh…well making sure all the animals are awake and taken care of is a big responsibility that I don’t have time to help you get the birds and it’s such a long flight I wouldn’t be able to make it…” She answered honestly as she took another sip of the water, yeah I guess I should’ve expected that…all those animals must probably need her for something when they wake up…that and she probably couldn’t make it outside Equestria without getting exhausted…well…I bet she could…she’s just selling herself short…again…

“And besides…” She then said as she finished sipping her water, looking at me with a smile, “I know you’re always in charge of the weather and the birds…and I know you could never fail the birds, your job, or me…so that’s why I’m not concerned about offering you my help…” She then explained sincerely as she titled her head to the left, her pink mane on the right side of her face flowing to the left briefly going over her eyes that were staring directly into mine.  I…I didn’t know what to say to that….

I looked away and down at my glass of water, “T-Thank you…Fluttershy,” I thanked sounding nervous as I now felt my cheeks warming…telling me that I was most likely blushing.  

Why though?  I should be used to this!  In fact that compliment was perfect for stroking my ego!   Talking about how I never fail anypony and how everypony should have their absolute faith in me, but…for some reason I couldn’t boast about it.  Is it the way she said it?  The way she put it?  Maybe it’s because it’s just us alone and there’s no other ponies around for me to hear my gloating…maybe that’s it…y-yeah that’s it!

I didn’t say anything else and after a minute I heard Fluttershy yawn slightly, “Speaking of hibernation…how is Tank doing with his hibernation?”  Fluttershy then asked after yawning, getting my attention as I looked back up at her, the blush most likely still on my face.  …Wait…Tank has to hibernate?

“Tortoises have to hibernate?” I asked in confusion as I wasn’t expecting this at all.  Fluttershy blinked a few times as if wondering if I was serious or not…yeah Fluttershy….I’m no animal expert like you…cut me some slack.

“Why of course…most turtles and tortoises have to hibernate during the winter!”  Fluttershy responded a bit loudly as if surprised that I didn’t know…great now I’m starting to feel bad because of my lack of knowledge and insight when it comes to my pet.

“S-Sorry…I didn’t know…” I apologized as I looked down at my cup again, feeling like I let down Tank and failed him.  I then felt a hoof on my shoulder and looked up to see Fluttershy smiling at me in a comforting way.

“It’s ok…I didn’t tell you everything when I gave you Tank and I shouldn’t have expected you know everything about tortoises.”   She said in an understanding tone as she slightly nodded.  Yeah that’s what I just thought a few seconds ago!

“Yeah, well I’m still not the number one pet owner if I don’t know something as important as that!” I replied with a chuckle trying to make light of this situation somehow…which it worked as she giggled slightly and moved her hoof off my shoulder.

“I think you’re a great pet owner…and I think Tank would agree…” She said supportively as she took another sip and finished off her drink…wait she finished it?  She actually drank her whole cup without me realizing it!  Geez sudden quick drinker!

“Don’t worry I’ll help you with Tank and whatever he needs to hibernate…” She offered as she bent over and put the cup on the floor in front of the couch…which I didn’t mind…I’d clean it up later.  

“Great…Thanks Fluttershy…” I thanked with a smile as I raised my glass and took one last big gulp, finishing it off, “I’ll go get him right now so he can tell you exactly what he needs!”  I then offered in a somewhat excited tone as I put down the cup and got off the couch.  I can’t talk to animals…that’s for certain…but Fluttershy can on a certain level so Tank should be able to tell her what he needs to hibernate.

She took a deep breath which turned into a yawn as she nodded at me with a smile.  She’s tired…well since she was up late last night it doesn’t surprise me.  After we’re done with Tank I’ll escort her home…I don’t want her falling asleep on the walk home…or worse flying home…that would be disastrous!  I quickly rushed up stairs and into my room…which was fully cluttered, random stuff everywhere…the way I left it this morning.

“Tank?” I called out as I started to look around for him.  I don’t know why I called…it’s not like he can call out to me or rush up to me….though his coughing does have a habit of getting my attention.

I looked around, moving stuff around and over to locate his shell…maybe he was sleeping or something…no I haven’t fed him yet so he wouldn’t be asleep yet.  Minutes passed and still no luck…I was actually starting to get worried.  More minutes passed and I was now frantically searching everywhere to locate my best bud…where did you go?

“Tank, where are you!?” I shouted as I was now terrified as what could’ve possibly happened to him.  My fears were subdued though when I heard the familiar sounds of a propeller.  I looked up to see Tank flying through the window with his special personal copter he had to get around and keep up with me.

“Tank!”  I yelled happily as I flew in the air and grabbed him, bringing him into a hug, “I was worried about you!”  I then said as I rubbed my nose against his, Tank rubbing back like he usually did.  

Where the heck was…oh wait a second… I looked over a chart on the wall that I setup that Tank had to follow for his daily flying practice…and right now was one of those times…now I feel really stupid for not looking at it sooner…and even more stupid for getting all mushy and sentimental.  I cleared my throat as I landed on the ground, putting him on the ground in front of me.

“I see you kept up to your daily flight schedule…good work…I would expect nothing less from you!”  I commended as I tried to sound as serious as I possibly could.  He didn’t say anything or do anything and instead slowly blinked at me.  …yeah I wouldn’t believe that either if I was you…

“F-Fluttershy needs to talk to you…it’s about your hibernation.” I then said keeping up my professional appearance as I bent down and picked him up. “So come on.” I then said as I left my room and rushed back downstairs.

“Alright Fluttershy I…” I started as I reentered the living room…only to stop when I saw Fluttershy lying down on my couch…fast asleep.  Crap I took too long and she passed out on my couch…well she was tired and I don’t really blame her…that couch is comfy…I should probably wake her up…but…that would be rude…especially since I’m the reason why she’s so tired to begin with.

I sighed to myself as I looked at Tank, “Do you think we have a spare blanket or something?” I asked tank as I knew that Fluttershy would probably not like a cloud for a blanket…they’re great pillows and cushions but not that awesome in the covering and warmth department.

Tank slowly nodded as his propeller started spinning and he took off into the air out from my grip.  I followed him as he went upstairs and back into my room.  He better not suggest I give her my blanket…that’s not happening!  He then went over the closet and opened the door…for a lot more crap to fall out.  Crap that seemed like I had years ago and just stuffed in for the sake of convenience.  He dove into the pile and then resurfaced later with what looked like a cloth in his mouth.

“Oh what’s this?”  I asked curiously as I didn’t think I had another blanket.  I grabbed the cloth that he was holding and pulled it out from the pile.  I looked over it and my mouth gapped open at what I saw…it was a big banner with Fluttershy on it, she was holding a carrot drink in her hoof.

“I completely forgot about this!”  I said to myself as I realized where on Equestria I could’ve gotten something like this.  It was back when Fluttershy somehow got famous and I had to pull this around in the sky to advertise for a drink…I held onto for…admittedly arrogant reasons and forgot about it when she fell from fame….although I guess I’m glad I held onto it because this could work to keep her warm…even it was a tad big.

I flew downstairs with the cloth banner in hoof and flew over to Fluttershy still soundly sleeping on the couch.  I gently put it over her, doing my best not to wake her up.  I heard a sigh of content escape her mouth as it was clear she unconsciously happy for the new warmth that was around her.  I sighed too that I didn’t wake her up.  I saw tank fly down from up upstairs and up next to me.

“Well it’s just you and me now…go into the kitchen…I’ll get you something to eat.” I said to him with a smile on my face.  He nodded and flew past me into the kitchen.

I turned around to follow him but stopped to look down at Fluttershy once last time.  She looked so peaceful…so relax…which I’m happy for because she deserves it after me abandoning her last night.  But one thing was bothering me…her pink mane was covering a good chunk of her face…getting hair in your face is never a good thing.  I bent over and gently brushed it aside.  After doing she moved her slightly to get more comfortable and sighed once again.  I smiled back before realizing what I did and then putting a hoof to my face.

“Why the hell did I do that?” I asked myself in disgust as I touched my sleeping friend’s face to move her hair away from her face…I mean seriously...who the hell would do that?  It’s so not me...am I going crazy or something?  ….maybe I am suffering from brain damage after all those hits from Applejack…that’s another thing I’ll have to pay her back for.

I shook my head before I went into the kitchen, when I did I saw Tank buzzing around in the air, either because he lost control or because he was excited for food…I like to think it’s the excitement one because I’m not wearing my helmet right now!  I took my chances and got some food out for him from one of the cabinets.  I went over and put it in his bowl; he flew over and landed right in front of it, immediately chowing down.

“There you go, eat up buddy.” I encouraged with a smile as I watched him eat for a second.  I heard my own stomach growl in response and remembered that I haven’t eaten anything since before I started working on fixing Applejack’s barn.

I went over to the ice cloud and reached down below it to the cool breeze cloud….I store my food in there; nothing regulates temperature better than clouds!  I reached in and pulled out some stuff to make myself a quick sandwich.   Nothing fancy, just something simple and quick…it’s not like I have to be fancy since I’m not cooking for anypony…I mean Fluttershy’s asleep and I don’t want to wake her up….maybe I’ll cook for her some other time to show off my cooking skills.  

Hey that’s a great idea!  I’ll invite Fluttershy over tomorrow so we can talk about Tank and his hibernation plans, get more practice as me being a great host, and so I can show of my cooking!  It’s perfect!  I laughed to myself victoriously as I made my sandwich and put the leftovers away back in the cool cloud.  I returned back to my sandwich and moved to the small table in the kitchen.

As I started to eat my sandwich the happy and confident feelings inside me soon dissipated.  Something felt…wrong…I felt miserable.  I don’t know why though, I looked around the empty kitchen and at Tank, who was still eating.  Nothing was different…this is how I usual spent dinner at home…except now Fluttershy was asleep on my couch.  I guess I feel a little…lonely…I guess I wanted to spend this time with her since she’s in my house for like the first time ever.

Something like this might not happen again…she might refuse me tomorrow and I won’t get a chance to do this sort of thing again.  I now sort of regret not waking her up…it would be nice for me to spend a meal at home with one of my friends.   I sighed to myself as I continued eating my sandwich.  I hope that’s the reason and not something else…there’s been a lot of strange weird things going on lately…the dinner last night, the roof…a few minutes ago…things are seeming to get weirder by the second…I bit my lip slightly in fear that…that…

There might be something wrong with me…

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