Pouring over the menu yet not really seeing what was on the page before him, Dusk sighed low, his voice a steady stream of mild annoyance at the situation that was clearly now well out of hand. His Duty to the Princess and his love of Rarity was in direct conflict with his friendship to the other mares each with very valid reasons to wish to go that he couldn't crassly throw aside. Voice strained he would again ask for her assistance. "Barb, what am I gonna do? All five of my best friends have really good reasons to go to the gala. Applejack, or Rainbow Dash? Pinkie Pie or Fluttershy, Rarity... Oh, who should go with me?"

The waiter, Savoir Fare stepped up to Dusk's table, a pad in one hand as he leveled his gaze to Dusk over the menu, his voice serious and cool he queried them for the second time since Dusk had not answered his first time. "Have you made your decision?"

Not even realizing that it wasn't Barb who asked the question, Dusk cried out in his own frustration, the menu slammed down to the table before him as he cried out his annoyance. "I JUST CAN'T DECIDE!"

Snickering at his overreaction, Barb pointed a thumb to direct Dusk's gaze from herself to the now rather haughty waiter who glared down at them even while his own hotheaded mistake began to sink in. "Dusk, he just wants to take your order." Blushing with his own now very public turn at shame, Dusk moved to quickly speak up to get the matter over with. His voice full of that same embarrassed overtone Dusk ordered without a second thought. "Oh. I would love a daffodil and daisy sandwich."

Writing swiftly but taking no time to bother getting involved with what was clearly Dusk's problem. Barb lifted her gaze from the menu, her voice hopeful "Do you have any rubies?" When his brows lowered and leveled at her she gave a sigh and shook her head. "No? Okay. I'll have the hay fries, extra crispy." Snorting lightly the waiter turned and wandered to off, leaving the two to enjoy the outdoor table.

Relaxing again as they were left alone, Dusk returned his gaze to his assistant, his voice hopeful and sad as he called for her advice on the day's headaches. "What do you think, Barb?"

But it appeared even she could get lost in her own world, as Barb was still glaring over her shoulder at the waiter who had wandered from their table pouting a little and resting her face on her open palm, grunting her own soft annoyance. "I think we have to try another restaurant. I mean, I like grass just fine, but would it hurt anybody to offer some gemstones?"

Groaning heavily, Dusk lifted a hand to grasp her hand in his own soft grip. His eyes large as he gazed into her own eyes in hopes of getting some kind of help "I mean about the gala and the ticket and who I should take?"

Groaning a little she shook her head voice bored by the whole situation, Barb gave her far from helpful answer. "Oh. You're still on that?"

Dusk pulled on that hand drawing her closer as he got more frantic while his OCD took over the situation, his voice rapid and rambling in his own fantasy as he got carried away. "Barb, listen! How do I choose? And when I do choose, will the other four be mad at me? I mean, if I do as Princess Celestia wants, it means leaving the four of them behind and taking Rarity to what might be a very unhappy 'conversation'. but if I leave her behind and take one of the others... I mean, I could give up my ticket and give away two, but that would still leave three disappointed ponies. What if I--"

Here Savoir Fare interrupted his tirade with the delivery of their food, plates placed before them both and speaking up to pull his attention away from his endless rants. "Ah, your food." Glad at last to have a distraction from his headache thanks to the arrival of his food, Dusk drew up the sandwich and drew it to his lips, dragging a sniff of the fresh meal and giving one little sigh of his own delight. Voice now far calmer now he spoke with joy to the waiter. "Oh thank you. This looks so good. I'm sure everything will be much clearer once I eat."

A sudden torrent of other people pushed past Dusk's table, even as he took the first bite from his own sandwich, chewing at it with quiet pleasure as his eyes slipped closed. A quiet sigh whispering from his lips, Dusk got lost in his meal until he heard the voice of Savoir Fare calling from some distance away now, when his gaze opened to look he finally now realize it was because he stood in the doorway to the main restaurant, his voice worried. "Em, sir? Are you going to eat your food in ze rain?"

Looking up, and chewing slowly, Dusk was confused, his head lifting to look around in a brief inspection of what it was that was going on around him. With no others about he looked up voice confused. "But... It's not raining." Yet as he took in his surroundings the fact he sat in the only dry spot in a circle of rain dawned upon him. "What... What's going on?"

From high above, and resting upon the storm clouds, Rainbow Dash beamed down from a rather sunny gap directly above him alone. Her eyes dreamy, she gazed down at him, voice playing innocent yet warm. "Hi there, best friend forever I've ever ever had. Enjoying the sunny weather?"

Groaning at the mare's antics, Dusk dropped his sandwich to the plate before him, glaring openly up at her even as he cast an accusatory glare to the mare. "Rainbow Dash, what are you doing?"

Playing the innocent, Rainbow Dash rolled over on her could pillow, looking down at him while laying upon her back flashing him her own warmest and most innocent of grins. "Whaddya you mean? I just saw the smartest, most generous pony about to get rained on, so I thought I'd kick a hole in the clouds to keep him dry so he could dine in peace, that's all. And besides, you've been working so hard of late, I wouldn't want you to get sick, that would be heartless of me!"

His brows lowered, Dusk's voice was without a moment of humor while he leveled his gaze at the still playfully innocent acting mare. "Rainbow, you're not trying to get extra consideration for the extra ticket by doing me extra special favors, are you?"

Still feigning innocence Dash put a hand to her chest, her voice filled with the best innocent and indigent tones she could summon. "Me? No no no, of course not. I'm just looking out for your health"

Unamused by her game, Dusk continued to level his glare, his voice as dry as he was. "Uh-huh."

Still attempting to get though this with some points in her favor Rainbow Dash nodded excitedly, waving her hand around though the air in hopes that she might get them past this situation "Seriously, I'd do it for any pony. Heh heh, eh." And yet, even as she spoke a random pony charged though the air, drenched to the bone, she pushed her way into one of the nearest stores, even as she dripped from the heavy downpour.

Done with Dash's games Dusk leveled his glare up at her his arms crossing on his chest as he stated his objection openly to the mare. "Rainbow, I am not comfortable accepting unwanted favors, so I'd appreciate it if you close up that rain cloud right now."

Grunting as her game was thrown out at Dusk's refusal to play along, Rainbow Dash sat up and gave her own derisive grumbles. "Ugh, fine." The missing cloud was shoved into place to join the rest of the storm, blasting at the ground below.

Glad that things were being done properly again, Dusk returned his focus to the meal before him, his sandwich lifted once more and drawn to lips, muttering warmly to himself. "That's better." Then a sudden crack of thunder split the air and impacted the ground just a few feet from him. The thick sudden torrent of released rain soaked him in its downfall, its blast ruining the meal and his momentary happy mood.

Dressed in a golden hued raincoat, Rarity walked up and held out her umbrella to help cover Dusk from the still powerful downpour. Her voice disapproving she spoke with bland tones. "Dusk, it's raining."

As annoyed as he was Dusk got sarcastic, and rolled his eyes, turning to lock his gaze up to the mare who was keeping him dry at least at the moment. "No, really?" He waited, head his cocked to the right as he glared at her waiting to see just what next smart remark she had prepared.

Rarity took his words with ease however, gracefully turning and waving her free hand towards her Carrousel Boutique. Voice gentle and kind she cooed with soft ease. "Come with me before you catch a cold darling."

Back inside the Boutique Dusk stood by the door while the little mare rushed around, taking his jacket from him and hanging it up by the door to help it dry out, the dribbling water falling upon her floor mat. Standing as he did on her entrance mat he raked two fingers though his hair, releasing his own annoyed sigh, yet in the process a soft spray of water drops splattered her in the face. Blushing dark he looked down voice soft. "Heh heh, oops, sorry."

Rarity however appeared to have no issue with the light water drops as they impacted on her face, but her own soft smile and kind voice lifted in ease, even while she stepped in close again, a hand raking through his hair while her voice lowered in soft glee. "Oh no, it's quite all right." Turning she wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling close to press her silky body against his wet chest. Lips pressing heavily up and into the kiss. Her right hand slipped out and stroked tenderly across his naked chest to trace the outline of muscles with the deft tips of her own fingers.

Dusk's world was filled with no one but Rarity, until Barb suddenly cleared her throat and started lightly tapping her foot in impatience. "You two are cute and all but why am I here?", she asked, her arms crossed over her trim figure, her scales beaded with water, leaving her standing in a small puddle, the moisture pinning her light cotton dress to wet scales.

Peeling free of Dusk's body, Rarity was grinning warmly as she turned to Barb, who still stood by the door, the soft teasing tone she had been using instantly dropped when she realized just how enamored Rarity was with the way her damp clothing clung to her frail frame. She cupped up the dragoness by the jaw with both her hands, as she spoke in a rich voice. "And you are so cute too. Oh Barb, I have a dandy little outfit for the noble lady!"

While the little dragon rarely wore much in the way of fancy clothing, she didn't mind the occasional times Princess Cadence had helped her dress up for a celebration. But now with Rarity suddenly pushing a silky dress upon the girl, its soft yellow green hues a nice compliment to her natural purple scales, she started squirming at the sudden attention, yet still stunned by the soft touch of her current crush. "D-ah, ow, oh, hey, wow, watch it, whoa!" Fighting as the dress was forced on her she wiggled and mutter in annoyance at the weight of the dress, even as it was shifted and pinned by Rarity's keen fingers to make it fit as flawlessly as possible.

Watching as Barb blushed darkly under the fawning attention from Rarity, Dusk lightly chuckled, endeared to the way the mare took so much time to primp and groom at Barb's scales and the like. "Oh, Barb you look so cute!"

Nodding her own rich joy, Rarity murmured her own soft agreement. "Now you just need a Tiara that goes with your spikes..." She cast her gaze towards the pile of crowns and other jewellery that might go well with the dress on Barb's slender body. Clinging close to her thin frame and showing off a lot of leg, it really did make the little dragoness look noble.

Even while Rarity softly muttered her own low words in consideration of one Tiara over another, Barb, at last, got fed up and pushed past Dusk and Rarity, her voice disgusted as she stormed out the door still in the dress. "Ugh, I told you, I don't want any part of this frilly gala gunk, see you back at the library." Realization that the sky outside was clear now Dusk relaxed and shifted to gaze up at Rarity as he relaxed in the chair watching fine figure sweeping back across the room to his side.

Laughing softly she drew his hands up into her own, drawing him to stand with her in a dancing pose, turning so they gazed together into the towering mirror. Her voice dismissively casting away Barb's swift escape, she focused instead on him. "Oh, who needs her anyway. This is all about you, and how fabulous we'll look at The Grand Galloping Gala."

Realizing what was going on at last, Dusk released a soft sigh, his head shaking quietly "Wait, I have to tell you something Rarity. It's about the Gala." At last he got her attention, his words catching her as she had moved to pull a sample of outfits to show off for him. Alone with the mare and her attention locked on him alone Dusk stepped forward and cupped her chin his voice soft and low. "It's just that Princess Celestia was asking me so many questions. I don't think this Gala invitation is for fun." Blushing darkly at his words, Rarity let the tux slide back onto its hook while he turned and drew into his arms her voice soft, low and tender. "I don't mind Dusk, If the Princess wants to know about our relationship? I can tell her the truth. I've fallen in love with the greatest stallion in Equestria and it's a joy to know he cares for me in return."

Relaxing at last a little, his hands slipping around her hips and a soft kiss planted on her cheek, rubbing his muzzle against her jaw in tender strokes. For a moment silence passed between them while quiet silence passed, the mare gazing longingly up into his own eyes. At last Dusk laughed and relaxed, nodding once gently. "Alright. So its that simple then. We stand up to Celestia, after maybe she just wants to make sure I'm treating you right." When she cocked an eyebrow up at him he laughed gently. "Sunset treated me so poorly, since then the Princess has been very supportive... But I've always wondered if she felt guilty for introducing us in the first place."

Suddenly from the open door the sound of a very familiar voice called out, while the rich smell of a dozen spiced apple treats tormented at the nose. With a massive grin upon her lips Applejack stepped up to the open door and called out with a booming voice, friendly in nature, yet with the hints of jealousy were not far from her words. "Dusk! I've got to get you to try some of this food. Some new Apple family treats Granny had me whip up. You done enjoyed the others so much, I had to find you first before anyone else!"

A groan escaped Dusk's lips as he and Rarity turned to look to the earth mare, yet as Applejack stepped into the open door that Barb had stormed out though, her rich grin warm as the summer sun, even as she waved to the food cart she had brought with her from the Apple farm. Dressed up in fresh brown shorts that clung to her tight rump and a short white tee-shirt that hugged just barely passing over her breasts, while a matching brown half jacket that was only just a little longer hung to her ribs. Grinning warmly she called with strong and sultry overtones. "Did somepony say lunch?"

Gazing over his shoulder at the mare Dusk slumped his head forward, groaning at how everything just kept going wrong today. "You've got to be kidding me! Applejack... I... Rarity and I were having a moment just now."

Shaking her head with unbreakable courage, Applejack pushed herself onward, waving a hand to the cart she had shoved half into the doorway while fresh steaming food oozed rich scents into Rarity's Boutique. "I got apple pie, apple fritters, apple tarts, apple dumplings, apple crisps, apple crumblers, and apple Brown Betty. Uh, the dessert, not my auntie." Fingers slipped out and wrapped around Dusk's wrist, to pull him away form Rarity, and cling for just a moment possessively to his arm while for a moment a glare was shared between the two mares who were normally such good friends.

Dusk's gaze darted from one mare to the other, realizing it wasn't really him she was talking to with all that statement. Rarity had gone quiet and gazed to AJ dressed up as she was in her best show duds, even while the farm mare started pushing food into Dusk's hands. Her large eyes wide with joy as she pushed forward further. "Is that a yes? I'd..." And here she swallowed, and turned her gaze down to him, her voice suddenly hinting at more then just friendly tones. "I'd sure love to be your date to the gala."

Rarity gasped, her eyes wide as she rushed to Dusk's side and placed herself between him and the taller mare. Eyes massive with pain she put a finger to AJ's chest, pushing her back a little while inserting herself back into the situation. "A... AJ! You know how close me and Dusk have gotten. Why would you do this.... I... We.. were friends." The hurt stood out massive in her eyes.

Suddenly a second string actor in his own life, Dusk was left to watch as AJ stepped back up to Rarity's push, her arms crossing her chest as she glared down at the other mare. "Maybe it's cause I want something too Rarity? Or that you ain"t the only one with an eye for a handsome stallion? It's not like you two have declared yourself or not'ing." Here she turned to look up from Rarity to Dusk her voice tender and easy. "I know I've been difficult of late due..." A cough and then she swallowed starting again. "Cause of my season and what not. But I want to know if my feelings were about you are real or not."

Swallowing she stepped back from Rarity, and leaned against the door-frame her arms crossing over her belly and her voice spoke with a softer, shy nature. "I don"t know what I feel yet, but I'd sure like the chance to get ta know ya better Dusk. But on da' farm? No that's no good! Ma.. Maybe at the Gala? Where else could you see I'm as good a mare as Rarity." And then as they both simply stared at her in shock she blushed darkly and looked down.

Dusk at last understood, and turned to Rarity, a soft smile offered to the older mare as he stepped forward, stroking his hand across the woman's spine in a single easy pass. The touch drew her gaze up to him and when she realized what he had asked without words, she nodded softly. Holding hands they stepped forward, together placing a soft touch with their free hand on the farm pony's jaw. His voice rich and soft, Dusk spoke up first with tender care. "Applejack, it would be my pleasure to get to know you better. You don't need fancy duds or some silly party to get my attention." As she lifted her head to gaze into his eyes, he smiled again just for her, his voice whispering softly for her. “I don't know if it's just your heat or not, but I've had a great time helping you at the farm these last few weeks. I think I owe you at least a date.”

With his words sinking in, the towering mare looked up a little then turned to look to Rarity, her voice breaking when she attempted to speak up. But she didn't need to, as Rarity stepped into her arms and hugged her tightly. Her voice warm and soft as she giggled softly. "You big goof. You should have told me. I'd never have the strength to deny you a handsome stallion. I've shared secrets with you, why should I have a problem sharing someone with a big heart like Dusk." Sniffling a little herself, she poked the taller mare in the belly. "Just don't go stealing him from me completely. Maybe... if you really fall in love with him... well we could always form a herd?"

At last this smoothed things over, and with one strong arm wrapped around Dusk's back, AJ pulled him into the three way hug, laughing warmly. When she had a chance to clear her eyes of tears she blushed darkly before answering her shorter friends suggestion. "I'm sorry Rarity. I just.. I felt so jealous of you laying claim to the best stallion around... not able to do anything cause my heart was too confused by my season." She looked up from Rarity to gaze to Dusk's eyes, her voice tender and low. "I ain't saying I've fallen for you like some silly filly who has read one too many romance novel to think straight. I'm just saying if you like me too, A date or something?" When he simply nodded she relaxed and shook her head warmly. "Look at us, getting all worked up. Now let's get down to what's really important, what's up with this ticket to the gala? Why did the Princess so clearly ask for Rarity?"

It was Dusk's turn to blush darkly now, and with quiet care he explained the night he and Rarity had, along with their fun the morning after. Every time he attempted to gloss over some details she instantly supplied them all, leaving him no chance to be shy around the other mare. In the end he shrugged his voice soft. "I'm guessing she saw that letter and worried I was falling into another abusive relationship like with Sunset Shimmer. I wonder how she will take it when I say two mare's have presented a convincing case that I should form a herd."

They shared a warm round of laughter at the remark, Rarity serving them tea while they sat around munching on some of AJ's treats. Talking about that night with her had released some tension Dusk hadn't really realized was between the two mares and now that it was over, suddenly things were far more comfortable. Speaking up first AJ smacked Dusk on the knee her voice harder but mostly playful. "First thing you gotta understand Dusk. We ain't no herd. I'm just keeping my options open. You might be the best Unicorn stallion around, but you are as weak as water. Maybe learn to apple buck and I'll give you proper chance."

Shared laughter continued as the conversation at last turned back to the tickets to the gala itself. Speaking up first, AJ put a foot down. "I don't need to go. I want to, don't get me wrong on that for a moment. But fancy parties are not my thing. I'd rather try and make the farm a whole heap of money then wind up dancing fancy before of the Princess!"

Snickering a little Rarity dunked her apple tart in her tea, her voice cooing soft teases to the younger mare. "Oh don't worry about it. If you go, I'll give you dance lessons. Maybe even make you a ball gown. Just think of how charming a couple you'd make on the dance floor. Oh sure, Dusk would have to look up at you as he attempted to waltz around the room, but you are---" And here she paused to clear her throat and attempted to copy AJ's tone for a moment. "A rotten apple tree in need of a good bucking."

The three relaxed and sit down to chat together for a while, trying to figure out a solution to today's headaches. While none came forth, at least the three could share the problem between three different viewpoints. Dusk relaxed a little, content in knowing the two mares friendship was as solid as ever.

Arriving home with a fresh perspective on the situation but no more answers, Dusk opened the door of the Golden Oak Library only to suddenly find the sweetest of singing voices whispering through the air and teasing at his ears as the unseen singer carried on. A little worried now, he wandered inside, knowing that wasn't Barb's singing voice his step was a little slower, and his eyes searched every corner of the room for the source of that song. It wasn't until he stepped into the Library proper that his senses were hit full in the face by a shocking sight.

Dressed up in what could only be described as a skimpy french maid's outfit, its frilly skirt hardly even reaching her knees while a big white bow tied over her plush rump swayed from side to side, Fluttershy was dusting the Library, with the aid of a half dozen of her animal friends. And it wasn't until she turned around upon hearing his jaw drop and the low muttering words whispering free of his lips. "Fluttershy, not you too?" He groaned.

The full effect of this new outfit really struck Dusk when she turned at his voice. While the skirt was short, the plunging neckline of the dress revealed a massive amount of cleavage considering the tremendous size of the blushing mare's breast. Except for the presence of a white dress shirt worn under the maid uniform buttoned up to the throat and giving her some semblance of modesty. Duster still in her deft fingertips, Fluttershy gasped and draw both hands up to offer a cheerful grin, only the fidgeting of her hands making it clear how uncomfortable she was in the moment. "Oh, well, hello Dusk. I hope you don't mind, but we're all doing a little spring cleaning for you."

Eyes wide, Dusk turned his gaze around the room to inspect the cleaning aid done by her animal assistants. Until he saw Angel Bunny walking into the room, a silver platter carried in one hand. Here too he we forced to groan a little, as the short bunny had been dressed up in a fine white chief's dress suit, fixed up in full with tall hat and apron. Having taken it all in, he turned back to glare at Fluttershy, his voice very tired now despite the shockingly appealing sight before him. "It's summer."

Blushing and offering a small shrug Fluttershy played innocent, flying swiftly over behind the bunny and grabbing Angel lightly by the shoulders forcing him to scramble as he struggled to support the weight of the platter in his grip as she shook him around a little. "Oh, well, better late than never, right? It was Angel's idea."

Not fooled for a moment, Dusk crossed his arms over his own chest, his own voice released in a sharp grunt. His leveled glare focused on the shy filly, figuring it might be easier to break her rather than the stonewalling bunny. "You're not doing this for the ticket, are you?"

Attempting to still act innocent, Fluttershy shook her hands and fly around her bunny to float before him, hands taking his own up and her head shaking with mirth and light giggles. "Oh no, I'm doing this because you're my very best friend. Right Angel?"

A little more aware of the whole situation then his boss, Angel turned his glare up to her and turned to Dusk his voice dripping with sarcasm. "Not at all Dusk! Why would Fluttershy ever want to go to the biggest flower show and free range zoo in Equestria?"

Seeing both men turned on her, a whimper escaped her lips, before she gave a solid nod, taking up Angel's lead and dropping any attempts at faking the act of kindness was for any reason but her own greed. Voice warm and smile pleading she relented and returned to give the truth instead. "Oh, yes, we are just doing this for the ticket."

Groaning, but at least respecting the fact they were willing to drop the act and be honest Dusk turned around and pulled open the door to the library a hand waving to direct them out while his strained voice waved near the edge of flat rage. "No, no, no! Well, this was all very nice of you and Angel, but I'm not accepting any extra favors until I've made my final decision, so I'm going to have to ask you to leave."

But it was Dusk, not Fluttershy and Angel, who left, as he was suddenly scooped up by a dozen mare's who together snatched him up and cried out in unison. "SURPRISE!" Thrown head over heels, Dusk landed upon a trampoline, suddenly stuck in a friendly celebration whose origin was not hard to guess at. Arms crossing over his chest he sat back glaring heavily as he waited for this to calm down, or at least until he saw the source of this 'favor'.

Then in the bold blast of trumpets, Pinkie Pie stepped out, her voice lifted high in song as she began to dance around in a circle before the many cheering fillies who were helping her with the trampoline. Confetti in one hand, and a song in her heart she made massive leaps into the air to accent her words with bold actions.

Dusk is my bestest friend

Whoopie, whoopie!

Still waiting with a level glare and his voice sharp in the base of his throat, Dusk waited a moment, maybe two, allowing the mares to toss him into the air twice more, waiting for a break in the song before speaking out in his own calmly stoked furnace of annoyance. "Pinkie..."

Of course, the mare wasn't about to heed any distractions while in full blown song mode, his level polite words never once getting a chance to be heard as the delighted bubblegum mare danced on voice drowning his own out in her glee

He's the cutest, smartest, all around best pony, pony!

Clearly realizing his words were not getting through to any of them, he drew a sharp breath and spoke harder, adding some real volume to the tone as he continued to be bounced in the air. "Pinkie." The menacing addition to his tone attempting to make it perfectly clear to her he was done with her game... and it failed to get though.

In her gleeful parade, the mare was lost to his words, her singing only growing louder as she pressed on in song.

I bet if I throw a super-duper fun party, party!

His rage boiling over, Dusk swallowed sharply, and called out with a more vocal scream of rage, this time at last getting through to the others in the crowd as he cried out his annoyance. "Pinkie!" The trampoline stopped as they let him get to his feet, but the mare? Not even a dent was made into her own joyful dance, spiraling in the air with easy grace.

He'll give his extra ticket to the Gala to me!

Dusk slipped forward, off the trampoline while his arms crossed over his chest again, and he waited for the mare to land before him again in a pause in her dance. All the other mares had started to back off, quickly realizing that Dusk was having no part in whatever show she was putting on, yet now continued hanging around thanks to their morbid interest in the show she was now putting on for them. "PIIINKIIIE!!"

Standing together by the door to the Library, Barb looked up to Angel and over to Fluttershy, offering a soft shrug as she started to push through the crowd to make her way to his side, in hopes she might have a chance to offer him some kind of help. But even as she went, the low voice of Angel called over the crowd loud enough for her to hear at least. "Maybe we should have done that. I think the message would have gotten across a LOT better." At Fluttershy's whimper, he gave sigh and nod a little. "Yeah. You're right, it would have been a lot harder to get them all together to help out before Pinkie collected them first. Besides. I like the hat."

Stopped by Dusk standing face to face with her, Pinkie Pie spread her joyful smile as a counter to his annoyed glare, her hands cupping together behind her back even while she wiggled from hips to the tip of her nose, gleeful that the moment she had been waiting for. "Yes, Dusk?" If she showed any sign of realizing he was frustrated with her insane actions instead simply beaming a gleeful grin in response to his words of rage.

Groaning out under the force of that shameless grin Dusk relented a step or two, and put a hand to his brow voice filled with open despair at her plan to woo him. "At least the other ponies tried to be subtle about the ticket Pinkie..."

The sudden revaluation of Pinkie's words, made real to the others at Dusk's confirmation made the gathered crowd begin to realize that something more was going on here. Stepping forward from the gathering crowd that still grew in size, a mare Dusk had been introduced to the other day by the name of... what was it, Drizzle? As the first to speak up, her voice suddenly full of wonder, eyes soft pink hue wide with glee. "Wait, what ticket? What gala?" Turning to offer a offhanded comment to the pegasus Pinkie Pie laughed gently and offered her warm shrug. "Oh, you didn't know? Dusk has an extra ticket to the Grand Galloping Gala!"

Now the whole crowd spoke up together, as one massive voice in unison "The Grand Galloping Gala?" Suddenly forty mare's all at once turned and pushed together towards Dusk, overwhelming him with their sudden chatter and random offers mixed up was the crowd he wasn't be able to identify more than one or two of those were closest as they spoke.

"Have I ever told you how much I love your mane?"

"I'll wash your dishes."

Pressing in on Dusk, the filly Daisy stroked a hand across his cheek, her voice velvety and soothing "Would you like any help with your gardening?"

On the other side of him, Shoeshine slipped close to draw a finger across his lips, cooing low and warm. "I have a cartload of extra carrots." All the while still more voices pressed in, one after another crying out offers of one favor or another.

"I'll paint your cart."

Realizing the mob that was forming before him, Dusk grabbed Barb by the wrist, pulling her in close and bolting off in the only free direction he could go, away from the one safe place in mind as the horde had already clustered into a wall of body's before the Golden Oak Library. Even as he bolted, Barb called up to him from in his arms, her voice worried, shivering with momentary fear. "What are we gonna do?"

Bolting as fast as he could, Dusk was still scanning for any avenue of escape. His voice panting for breath even as he turned one corner and ran down another alleyway the wild horde mobbing behind them spilling through the streets and stalking them without fail. All he could manage was a grunt and a groan, his mind still wildly spinning for thoughts of somewhere safe, yet all that came to mind was the Golden Oak, now blocks behind him and only getting further way. "We're... gonna... run!"

Still more offers of favors poured forth, one after another whenever Dusk turned a corner only to find himself confronted by a second wind of the ever growing crazed horde. And not just mare's, several stallions had joined in, the one before him shoving a card into his hand his own voice professional compared to the crazed mob. "I'll do your taxes!" An offer so ridiculous in this situation Dusk was forced to halt and simply stare as the smirking stallion. This was a bad choice and soon the mass of bodies surrounded him again.

This time they offered him no avenue for escape, no gaps between two bodies he might dive though. Even overhead a dozen pegasus had gathered to form a net in the air to lock down upon him with the rest of the begging crowd. Panic setting in Dusk dragged Barb up into his arms and held her tight to his chest. Any attempt to think was lost to this situation as he twist and turned around in place even while his hand rubbed the dragon’s back. Swallowing sharply as he shifted and shuffled feet on the ground, he twisted around in one last desperate hope, the idea of safety now all he could think of... and in a sudden burst of power, he popped from sight in a bubble of brilliant raspberry light enveloping him and then releasing its own bubble of silence that washed over the gathered crowd.

Realization dawned on the gathered masses, that Dusk had disappeared before their eyes. Random voices muttered softly even as they began to disperse, "Where is he? Where did he go? he just... disappeared." Of the crowd, five hung around, gathering close and starting to talk, or more appropriately, speaking to the others in a soft voice, Rarity fingered at the thick and silky purple mane of her hair. Whispering of the only other time she had seen such magic, the night of Nightmare Moon.

A second flash of shocking bright white light that faded to simply scorchingly resplendent tones of light raspberry aura before the bubble unfolded and fell free from two panting figures, the last moment of the spell exploding in a small column of smoke that left the two coughing for breath. Once more in the safety of the Library Dusk and Barb staggered together and sank to sit on the floor, resting back to back as the aftershocks of a spell cast by sure force of will alone still sapped at their strength. It was the little dragoness who spoke first, shaking her head and sticking her tongue out at the taste of the magic that still managed to somehow linger on her taste buds. "Ugh, warn me next time you're gonna do that."

Laughing a little warmly to himself Dusk shook his head grinning to his assistant as he started pulling himself to his feet, staggering on uneasy feet. His voice happy at the discovery of new found magic, yet still drained and strained by the act of power behind the spell, as accidental as it might be. "I didn't even know it was gonna happen. Now quick, lock the doors."

Yet before they could get five feet, the front door slipped open and five bodies quickly slipped inside, locking it behind them before the soft tones of Fluttershy's voice lifted up, calling out with soft care. "Dusk? Please come out. We... We want to talk..."

Groaning as he turned the corner only to walk straight into the five friends he couldn't do anything to help Dusk gave up and flopped to his knees before them. His voice openly ranting at the unfix-able situation at hand. "Yaaaargh! I can't decide, I just can't decide. It's important to all of you and I just can't stand to disappoint any of you, and giving me gifts and doing me favors won't make any difference, because you're all my friends and I wanna make you all happy and I can't, I just can't!"

Unsurprisingly it was Applejack who stepped forward, and gave his shoulder a soft squeeze. "Dusk, sugar, I didn't mean to put so much pressure on you, and if it helps, I don't want the ticket anymore. You can give it to somepony else. I won't feel bad, I promise." Her gaze was swift to shift to Rarity, and a quiet sad smile drifted over her lips as she offered the Unicorn mare a little nod.

The real shock was that Fluttershy of all people, still in that silly black and white silk and lacy maid's outfit who stepped in next, cupping his cheeks with her hands and smiling down to him, leaning in to put a light kiss on his nose her voice warm and light. "Me too. I feel just awful that I made you feel so awful." Outside you might just hear the sound of a familiar bunnies voice screaming out 'Oh come on!'

Next Pinkie Pie blushing dark and drooped her head low, putting her hands on his own drawing him to stand up with her, resting her head to his chest before at last spoke her own soft apologize. "And me too. It's no fun upsetting your friends."

Rarity was the only one who was silent, as swiftly Dash pushed in front of him and cried out in victory, a small dance and twirl on the spot preformed in her own joy at the others retreat from the situation. "Yes! That means the ticket is mine. Ha ha!" Her song grew to a near sing song tone as she danced in place in her own bold joy. "I got the ticket, I got the ticket--" Yet as she looked to AJ and the others a sigh escaped her lips, her body sinking down to the ground and sheepishly she kicked the door lightly. "You know, I haven't perfected my signature moves for The Wonderbolts anyway. I don't need that ticket either." More a guilt trip then really relenting to the others pressure the mare glared at the others but with only a small pout on her lips.

Rarity at last stepped forward, her hands holding one of Dusk's own, her voice soft and easy. "I won't go if you don't want to Dusk. Princess Celestia doesn't need to make you go to some dance just to talk to me. I can make the trip any day of the week if she but asked."

When the others started to mumble in confusion AJ simply leaned back against the wall and crossed arms over her chest her voice level, a hint of... jealousy maybe danced on her words. "Dusk and Rarity are a number now. And you'd all better respect that." When none offered more than a mild shrug, she turned back to Dusk her voice softer now, tone warm as she tried to patch the situation with one last bandage. "We all got so gun-ho about going to the gala that we couldn't see how un-gun-ho we were making you."

All the others nodded and replied together in unison with everyone's statement a joined note. "We're sorry, Dusk." Of one sort or another.

Realization dawning upon him Dusk grinned and turned from the mares, he spoke to his assistant, his voice rich with new found confidence. "Barb, take down a note." The scramble for paper and a quill took only a moment and Dusk wrapped his arms around as many of the five mare's as he could manage in one massive hug as he guided them into the Library to watch over the little dragoness as he spoke on. "Dear Princess Celestia, I've learned that one of the joys of friendship is sharing your blessings, but when there's not enough blessings to go around, having more than your friends can make you feel pretty awful. So, though I appreciate the invitation, I will be returning both tickets to The Grand Galloping Gala." Together the others were shocked at the words, all turning to look from one another then back to Dusk, AJ even squirming from his grip, her voice calm and sure now as she stroked a hand across his cheek. "Dusk.. you don't have to do that." Followed by the others calling out with assorted statements of "What?"

Laughing softly, Dusk turned to hug her again shaking his head warmly as he looked over all his new friends. his voice was relaxed and confident for the first time since the letter had arrived. "If my friends can't all go, I don't wanna go either." As AJ started to form more words he put a finger to her nose and winked playfully up to the mare. "Nope. I've made up my mind. Barb, you can send the letter now."

Barb took a breath and casting her magic she sent the new letter away, along with the two tickets stuffed into its coiled page. Fluttershy stepped up beside him as he watched the magic whisper out into the clear blue sky, her voice sad and low. "Now you won't get to go to the gala either."

Lightly giving her a soft chuck on the jaw, Dusk drew them all into a second massive group hug, his voice brimming with soft confidence this time. "It's okay, girls. I couldn't possibly enjoy myself without my best friends there with me, so I would rather not go at all." For her part only Barb stood apart, suddenly snorting and coughing as if her throat was stuck on something. "Hgh... hgh... urk... urk..."

Laughing sharply at the reaction to their friendly sentiment, Applejack gave the little dragoness a clap on the back, voice teasing to the younger lass. "Well wallop my withers, Barb. Isn't that just like a young filly? Can't handle the least bit of sentiment." Yet the blow was strong enough to clear up whatever was clogging her lungs and Barb released a sudden powerful fireball of that same green magic, bursting into existence a new letter and forcing AJ to draw away from the flames with a cry of shock "Whoa Nelly!"

A little shocked, Dusk peeled away from the others to pick up the letter and unfold it for the dragon while she caught her breath, but leaving her the chance to read it first. His voice light and worried, he almost didn't dare to look down to the words of anger he was now worried what might be written across the page. "A letter from the princess? That was fast..."

Gathering herself up again, Barb took the scroll and inspected it, reading quickly as the others soon started to press in close in hopes of hearing or seeing more sooner, rather than waiting for her to finish. "My faithful student Dusk, Why didn't you just say so in the first place? Here are Six tickets to The Grand Galloping Gala, it would be my pleasure to have all your friends come along and enjoy a night on the town. They have earned it a thousand times over after all."

As a collective, all six ponies gasped, Dusk turning to address his friends with his own soft chuckle of glee. "Well how about that? Now we can all go." As a rich cheer echoed forth from the gathered crowd the sudden rumble of his stomach reverberated through the room, causing them all to laugh and cut short the rich cheer they had just began at the discovery of the new tickets. With a nervous laugh he lightly pet his own belly, eyes dropping to Barb voice soft. "Did you ever eat properly today?"

Turning to Dusk, the little dragon considered trying a bold lie, before giving in and nodding. "Those gems you ordered showed up in the afternoon mail. They go great on a daffodil sandwich!" While the others laughed a little, Dusk shook his head rubbing at his hungry stomach.

Rarity step into his side, linking arms with him and flashing a rich smile up to him, her voice soft and warm. "Please Dusk. Do allow us to treat you to dinner."

Here Dash snickered softly, looping her arm with his free one, her eyes bright with wonder. "After all, how what else could we apologize to you, egghead!"

Hopping onto his back and wrapping arms around his neck, Pinkie Pie thrust one free hand forward her voice filled with that same air of unbreakable excitement at what lay ahead. "And to celebrate. Come on everyone, the cupcakes are on me!"

As the others filed out, Barb alone stared at the note, six tickets and six ponies had wandered away. Her voice soft, and somewhat sad she searched the letter again speaking quietly to herself. "How come I don't get a ticket to the gala?" Then another sharp burp ripped through her gut and a much smaller burst of flame ripped through her clenched teeth. Staggered at being overlooked she took a minute to unfold it, eyes scanning the note, even as the heavy stride back to the front door signaled AJ's return, her deep eyes searching for the tiny dragoness.

Reading aloud to herself she quoted Celestia's letter. "And one for you, Barb." With a bold giggle she tore towards the door to catch up with the others, stopping only when she saw AJ towering above her, wearing a delighted grin. Attempting to play innocent she stopped and turned to lock the door, her tone and behavior pulling a total one eighty. "I mean, gross, I have to go too?" If she fooled the mare no sign was given, just a rich and knowing smile. Then linking arm and arm with the dragoness once the house was locked up, they rushed to follow after the others.

Author's Notes:

Alright! Another chapter down. Thanks to my kind Prereaders for putting up with a 7 am link bomb and I hope only that you guys can continue to put up with my random and rapid schedule. What did you think? Can you tell the clop scene was cut from this chapter for pacing issues? Don't worry because I'm working on it now as a reward for 100 favorites on this series. I'll have it out asap and will put a link to it where it belongs in this story. But to keep this from being over 20k it will remain a separate bonus story not part of the main narrative, besides some people don't want / need clop in every chapter to be happy.

As always leave me any and all feedback, its always appreciated!
/end of original author's note.

Also, please everyone thank Frankie for putting up with being my only editor / spell checker in this chapter due to internet outages for the others. It's been a crazy week but I'm glad to finally have this out and ready for you all to enjoy. Please send all of your sanity for poor Frankie needs it after dealing with my shit all alone!

Version 2 updated April 28th, 2016. Edited by me!