It's a Date?

Chapters

Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4

Part 1

It's a Date?

Rarity and Twilight Sparkle walked through Ponyville on their way to a brunch with their pegasi friends Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy. It had originally been planned as a breakfast but Rainbow Dash made it clear that she didn't want to get up early on her day off. As they neared the cafe, they saw Fluttershy seated at one of the outdoor tables. There was no sign of Rainbow Dash.

A shadow passed over them and a heavily laden pegasus unknown to them landed at the cafe entrance and immediately walked up to Fluttershy. Both unicorns noticed the surprised look on the face of their shy friend and quickened their pace.

“Do you know him?” asked Rarity quietly.

“No,” replied Twilight, “I've never seen him before. I don't think he's from Canterlot. It looks to me as if he's been flying a while.”

He was a large brown fellow with a black and brown mane and he wore goggles. His saddlebags were marked with a star with an 'M' in the middle. His cutie mark was a dark gray cloud with rain falling beneath.

“Good morning Fluttershy,” said Rarity, “who's your handsome friend?”

“Oh! um, we just met,” explained Fluttershy, blushing. “His name is Rain Chaser. He's from Manehatten. Rain Chaser, these are my friends Twilight Sparkle and Rarity.”
“How do you do,” said Rain Chaser. “I hope I'm not intruding on you but I just arrived and saw a fellow pegasus. I thought she might be able to help me.”

“I'm sure we can help you,” said Twilight with a smile. “What seems to be the problem?”

“Oh, there's no problem,” said Rain Chaser. “I'm on vacation and I was hoping for a little adventure. I heard that the Everfree Forest was near here and I'm looking for a guide.” He turned his gaze to Fluttershy.

“Me?” said Fluttershy looking really scared, “guide you through the Everfree Forest? No, thanks! I don't need any adventures! No adventures today, thank you.”

“Maybe Zecora would be a better choice,” suggested Rarity. “After all, she lives there.”

“Really,” said Rain Chaser, “I didn't think anypony lived there.”

“Well, Zecora is different,” explained Twilight, “for one thing, she's a zebra.”

“A zebra,” said Rain Chaser in surprise, “I'd like to meet her but I was hoping to fly rather than walk. Don't any of you know a pegasus that might make a good guide?”

As one, the three friends said; “Rainbow Dash.”

“Hi all,” said a blue pegasus that appeared seemingly from nowhere, “sorry I'm late. Slept in a little longer than I planned.” She laughed.
“Rain Chaser, this is our friend Rainbow Dash,” said Twilight. “If anypony can help you out, it's her.”

“Pleased to meet you Ms. Dash,”said Rain Chaser.

“Hi,” replied Rainbow Dash, “so what brings a Manehatten weather pony to Ponyville? Need some help with something or looking to transfer?”

Rain Chaser laughed. “No, nothing like that. I'm on vacation and I'm looking for a pegasus to show me around the Everfree Forest. Er...how did you know I was a Manehatten weather pony?”

“Saw the saddlebags,” said Dash. “I circled a couple times before I landed. Yeah, I could show you around Everfree but it kind of throws off my plans. I wanted to practice my moves today.”

“Your moves?” asked Rain Chaser.

“Aerobatics,” said Dash, “you know; stunts and stuff.”

“Sure,” said Rain Chaser, “I do a little of that myself. Maybe I could show you a few tricks in exchange for showing me around.”

Rainbow Dash tried hard to stifle a laugh and was partially successful. “Yeah, sure. I'll tell you what, you pay for my meals today and I'll take you on a flyover. It'll be good exercise anyway.”

“Sounds like a good deal to me,” replied Rain Chaser. “I'd like a little more than a flyover though. I was hoping to land and see what the forest is like. Maybe find a souvenir or something to take home. I have a pretty good collection from my other vacations.”

Rainbow Dash frowned. “Well, okay but you have to agree to do exactly what I say. I've been in there before and that forest is dangerous.”

Rain Chaser smiled. “Good! I was hoping some of the stories I heard were true. I'll heed your advice but I'm used to danger. I look for a new adventure every year when I go on vacation.”

“Rainbow Dash is right, Rain Chaser,” said Rarity. “You don't know what you're getting into. I've been in the forest too, and so has Twilight and Fluttershy. There are things in there that you really don't want to meet.”

“It's different than Equestria too,” said Twilight, “if you go in there, you listen to Rainbow Dash.”

“That's right,” said Fluttershy in a stern tone, “if anything happens to her because of your thrill seeking you'll answer for it.”

“Calm down Fluttershy,” said Dash, “if we get in trouble I'll just fly off and leave him for the manticore or whatever else that tries to eat us.” She gave Rain Chaser a fierce grin.

“Rainbow!” exclaimed Twilight. “You wouldn't!”

“Well,” mused Rainbow Dash, “probably not. Anyway, there shouldn't be any trouble as long as we're careful. Where's the waiter? I'm hungry and I have a free meal coming.”

The waiter appeared almost as Dash finished talking and took their orders. Talk of the proposed adventure was postponed as Rain Chaser was bombarded by questions about Manehatten. The stallion answered politely and impressed the mares with his confidence and humor though he did not endear himself by being somewhat boastful. Rainbow Dash was not bothered by this but her friends wondered how these two would get along by themselves. It turned out that Rain Chaser was not just on the weather team but was, in fact, in charge of it. Rainbow Dash was delighted.

“What a coincidence,” she said, “I'm in charge of the Ponyville Weather Team. That's why I asked you if you were looking to transfer. I'd never pass up an experienced weather pony.”

“Me neither,” replied Rain Chaser. “If you want to move up to the big time, I'm sure I can find a spot for you.”

“A spot for me? I don't think so. Why would I want to do that? I'd rather run my own show than take orders,” said Rainbow Dash. She sounded insulted now. If this city pony thought she was fool enough to take an offer like that he could think again.

Rain Chaser just laughed. “I don't blame you for that but you must admit that Manehatten is more high profile. It would look good on your resume.”

“Pass,” said Dash curtly, “I like it here. The only other job I'm interested in is getting on the Wonderbolts.” She gave her attention to her food.

Rain Chaser was surprised and looked at the others. Rarity was daintily enjoying her meal. Fluttershy looked at Rainbow Dash in admiration. Twilight swallowed a bite of food and spoke.
“I'm sure you'll make it soon,” said the purple unicorn. “You're the best flier I've ever seen...including the Wonderbolts.”

“Thanks Twilight,” said Rainbow Dash. She turned to Rain Chaser. “I hope you appreciate my taking my time to show you around. I had planned to spend my day off practicing.”

“You're serious aren't you?”said Rain Chaser. “You're really that good?”

“Yep,” said Dash, “you'll see. I'm done here. I'm going by my place and pick up a few things. You can go by the market and get us a little food for later. I'll meet you there. See you tonight girls, wish us luck!” Her three friends were still in the middle of their goodbyes when she took off and flew towards her cloud home.

“She's really something else,” said Rain Chaser as he watched her fly away.

“She is,” said Rarity, “and she's our friend so we expect you to take good care of her. Some very important ponies are her friends too and I assure you that they will hear of it if you don't.”

“Really? Anypony I know?” asked Rain Chaser.

Rarity put on her sunglasses and looked up at the sun. “Oh, yes, I'm sure you know them.”

The hint was not lost on Rain Chaser and he swallowed hard but quickly regained his composure. “Well I'll do my best. I really have been in some tight places and can handle myself if I have to. It's been a pleasure meeting you all but I should be going. If one of you could direct me to the market, I'll go get the supplies we need.”

“I need a few things too,” said Fluttershy, “I can take you there.”

They paid their tab and left the cafe. Twilight and Rarity went to their respective homes while Fluttershy guided Rain Chaser to the market.

“Thanks for the help, Ms. Fluttershy,” said Rain Chaser.

“No trouble at all,” replied Fluttershy. “Always glad to help out.”

“What do you think I should get?” asked Rain Chaser. “ I guess just something to snack on will be enough. We should be back this evening.”

“You can get apples from the Sweet Apple Acres stand. Applejack runs it. She's another friend of ours,” said Fluttershy. “And Sugar Cube corner is over there if you need some baked goods. There are lots of other vendors with anything else you may want. Don't let them push you around though, some of them might try to take advantage of you since you're new in town.”

“Thank you Fluttershy,” said Rain Chaser, “I'll be careful.”

“Just one more thing,” said Fluttershy quietly, “Rainbow Dash can be rash and she's also very brave. Don't taunt her or dare her to do anything dangerous because she won't back down. And you'd better be a gentlecolt too, for your own sake.”

“Of course,” said Rain Chaser, “there's no need for threats.”

“Oh, was I threatening,” stammered Fluttershy, “I'm sorry. No, I just meant if you try anything she doesn't like, she'll probably hoof you your head.” Fluttershy smiled. “Have a nice trip.”

“What a strange town,” said Rain Chaser to himself as Fluttershy walked away. “Who are these mares?”

Chapter 2

Rain Chaser quickly went from stand to stand gathering what he felt was a light meal for two. He bought a few apples from Applejack but didn't mention the trip to the forest. He found another stand that had fresh clover which was hard to get in Manehatten. At Sugar Cube Corner he bought a loaf of bread from a bouncy, funny pony who offered to throw him a welcome to Ponyville party. He politely refused, explaining that he would be gone for the rest of the day. He was purchasing a jar of jam to go with the bread when Rainbow Dash returned.

“All ready?” asked Rainbow.

“Yes,” said Rain Chaser, “I just finished getting our supplies. I'd like to get a room so I can leave some of my luggage there if that's alright.”

“We've wasted almost half the morning already,” complained Rainbow Dash. “Why not leave your stuff at my place until you get back? It will be quicker.”

“Alright,” agreed Rain Chaser, “lead the way.”

Without a word, Rainbow Dash took off and flew towards her home in the clouds. Rain Chaser followed her. They landed and entered Dash's home.

“Here it is,” said Dash. “Pardon the mess but I use this room for work.”

Rain Chaser looked around at the clutter. Most of the available space that could support solid objects was filled with papers containing charts, rosters, maps and schedules. A large chart on the wall contained a list of ponies and their duties for the week. Compared to the highly professional office in Manehatten, it looked terribly disorganized. There was a small space to the right of the door and Rain Chaser unloaded his bags keeping only the provisions, a blanket and his canteen.

“That's better!” said Rain Chaser. “Let's go!”

“Alright,” replied Dash, “I've been thinking of a place that might be interesting for you. How would you like to see the ancient home of the Princesses?”

“Really?” said Rain Chaser, stunned at the suggestion. “That would be awesome Rainbow Dash.”

The blue pegasus tossed her mane and laughed. “Please, you can call me Rainbow or Dash. Some ponies even call me RD.”

“Sure Rainbow, you can call me Chase,” said Rain Chaser.

“Okay, Chase,” said Rainbow, “you can start by chasing me!”

Rainbow Dash flew out the door followed closely by Chase who paused only to kick the door shut. Chase followed his guide towards the forest which grew larger as they approached and gained altitude. The city stallion had never seen a forest so vast even on his travels.

Chase tried to catch Dash but couldn't quite seem to match her speed. He realized that he was flying nearly as fast as he could and knew he couldn't keep up the pace indefinitely. He was about to ask Rainbow Dash to slow down when his guide stopped flapping her wings and went into a glide.

“You're pretty fast Chase,” said Rainbow, “maybe we can have a real race before you leave.”

“If you want,” said Chase as he tried hard not to gasp, “but I'm not even the fastest pony on my team. I'm just a good leader.”

“Oh,” said Rainbow, she sounded disappointed. Privately, she was puzzled at how Chase could be the Manehatten leader without being the most awesome flier. Still, he was pretty fast and maybe he could clear clouds really well or something.

“You seem kind of young to be a team leader, even for a small town,” said Chase. “How did you get the job?”

“I was looking for work after I left the Cloudsdale Flight School. I heard about an opening here and thought I'd give it a try,” said Rainbow Dash, omitting the circumstances of her leaving school. “I didn't know it was because the old team leader was retiring but when they saw how awesome I was, they elected me leader.”

“That’s it?” said Chase. “You got the job just on your physical abilities? But what about all the other things like schedules and personnel resources, experience with bad weather. What about your past experience? You must have had great grades or advanced training.”

Rainbow Dash had a hard time holding back her laughter. Grades? Advanced training? This guy was such an egg-head. Weather was weather and it was up to pegasi to make it behave. “Well, the old leader trained me for a few weeks and after I got to know the team, it was pretty easy. If I thought any of the ponies were going to have trouble, I just pitched in where I was needed. Every pony knows they can count on me.”

Chase stared at Rainbow Dash. He'd spent several years working and studying to get his job and here was this young mare who just fell into a leadership position. “So your management style is to lead from the front, eh?” he said.

“Is there another way?” asked Dash. “I guess things are different in Manehatten. You probably have a lot of full time weather ponies there. I only have three two pony wings full time plus four ponies part timers. Of course I can call out all the town pegasi for really big jobs like Winter Wrap Up or in case of emergencies.”

“Yeah, it is different,” said Chase. “We need more mainly because of the storms coming in from the ocean. I guess you don't have that problem here.”

“Just the stuff that slops over from Everfree,” replied Dash. “We don't control the weather there. Clouds move on their own and we can get some bad weather from them. I send out patrols twice a day to keep an eye on things.”

“Wow!” said Chase, “I didn't know about that. I guess Everfree isn't just a name.”

“Nope,” said Rainbow Dash in a serious tone. “And there are things down there you really don't want to meet; timber-wolves, manticores, cockatrices and Celestia knows what else. Oh! If you see any blue flowers, don't touch them.”

They flew in silence for a while. Chase spent much of his time gazing down at the forest, hoping to get a glimpse of some creature but the canopy of trees was largely impenetrable. When he looked up he saw a dark line far away on the horizon.

“Is that some of the bad weather you were talking about?” he asked Dash.

“Good eye, Chase,” replied his guide, “we'll have to watch that.”

“I hope it doesn't interfere with our trip,” said Chase.

“Hard to tell,” replied Dash. “you never know what's going to happen here. All part of the fun.” She grinned.

Chase smiled back. He wasn't going to let this country mare show him up.

“Hey look!” said Rainbow Dash, “we're almost at the river already. Come on! If you're lucky you might get to see a river monster.”

“Really? Okay, lead on Rainbow” replied Chase.

Rainbow Dash did a half roll and dove towards the river with Chase following. They flew along the banks for a few minutes and came to the place where Rarity had replaced the river serpents mustache with her tail hair. The creature was nowhere in sight and they continued up the river. Rounding a bend, they found the creature gazing at his reflection in a calm part of the river. He combed his mane with what looked to be the skeleton of a gigantic fish.

Chase hung back slightly but Rainbow Dash landed and walked up to the creature. “Hi there!” she called. “Remember me?”

The startled creature turned and dropped his comb. “Oh, don't do that,” he said, “you scared me out of my wits! Oh! I remember you! You were with that nice pony that helped me with my mustache. It's all grown back now but I kept her gift as an accessory.”

The serpent turned his head so the ponies could see his ear. Hanging from it was Rarity's curled tail as an earring.

“Sorry, we scared you,” apologized Rainbow Dash, “I'm taking Chase here to see the old ruins and thought I'd stop to see how you're doing. Nice earring by the way. I'm sure Rarity will be happy that you kept it.”

“Oh, how nice,” said the creature, “I don't get visitors very often. Or gifts. Pleased to meet you Chase, I'm Steve.”

“er Pleased to meet you too, Steve,” replied Chase. “I've never met anyth...anyone like you before.”

“Ooh thank you,” replied Steve. “I do like being unique.” The serpent then launched into a seemingly endless speech about his life since the mustache incident.

At first, Chase was amused by the serpent's speech but soon both he and Rainbow Dash became bored since it consisted mostly of proper grooming habits such as how to get ones scales to shine or how to maintain a hairstyle even when wet. Even Steve had to pause to take a breath now and then and Rainbow Dash quickly interrupted.

“We'd really love to stay longer but I'm taking Chase on a little tour of the forest,” said Rainbow. “We need to get going if we're going to be back by dark.”

“I understand,” said the disappointed creature. “It was nice meeting you Chase. You two can visit me anytime. And tell Rarity hello for me.”

“Sure!” said Dash, “bye for now.”

“Goodbye,” said Chase, “nice meeting you.”

As the two pegasi took off the creature sighed. “What a nice couple,” he said to himself as he returned to his preening.

Rainbow Dash and Chase were soon back on course but before long Chase suggested a short halt for a snack. Rainbow agreed and spotted a clearing on the top of a hill. It was about the size of a small cottage, sandy and surrounded by trees and boulders. It seemed to be the perfect spot for a picnic.
Rainbow Dash spread out her blanket while Chase unpacked their food. They had barely started to eat when the wind picked up and a little dust devil blew past them. Neither of the ponies was alarmed by this but when that dust devil was followed by another even larger one and then three more, Chase realized what was going on.

“Oh no!” he exclaimed, “Dust Devils!”

“Big deal,” said Rainbow Dash, “it's annoying but...”

“No,” said Chase as he glared at the small tornadoes, “you don't understand. We're in the middle of a Dust Devil nest. Grab our stuff, we've got to leave!”

Rainbow Dash raised an eyebrow. “Huh?” she said intelligently.

“These things aren't natural,” explained Chase, “I mean they're not just wind. Hey! Give me back my saddlebags!”

Rainbow Dash was still baffled but grasped that the dust devils seemed to be guided by some sort of intelligence. The dusty little tornadoes picked up the blanket and food and sucked them into the vortex. Dash flew in after them.

Rainbow Dash realized her mistake too late. The wind took her outstretched wings and threw her out of control. “Weird,” she thought, “that shouldn't have done that. A dust devil should barely disturb my flight.” The abnormal little storm threw her out and up, crunching into the trees.

On the ground, Chase wasn't fairing much better. He had latched onto his saddle bags with his teeth and was in a tug-of-war with one of the dust devils. He had almost pulled them clear when another one hit him from behind and threw him off balance. Chase let go of the saddle bags and went rolling across the sand.

Rainbow Dash emerged from the trees and charged in on foot to grab the blanket. As she did so, she felt something hit her shoulder. It stung more than the swirling sand but she was getting angry now and ignored it. Oddly, the dust devil that had been making off with the blanket vanished. She snatched up Chase's blanket and ran to the side of the clearing. She dropped the blanket and went in after her saddlebags.

By now Chase was back on his hooves and had seen what Rainbow Dash had done. He ran to the spot where the dust devil had been and stared intently at the ground. Suddenly he stomped down with a hoof and held it against the ground.

“Alright!” he roared, “give us back our stuff or this one gets it!”

His saddlebags shot out of a dust devil and hit him square in the face. A bit of blood trickled out of his nose but he didn't move. “I mean it!” he said as he raised his other hoof. “Knock it off now!”

To Rainbow Dash's surprise, all the dust devils died away leaving the debris of the picnic lying on the ground. She grabbed her bags and walked over to Chase. Pinned by it's wing beneath the stallion's hoof was a strange insect like creature. She looked around and saw that there were several more gathering in front of the two pegasi.

They were small, about the size of a mouse. All were a dark shiny red with six black legs and black eyes and large chests. Two yellow horns protruded from their heads where a normal insect would have antennae. The one held immobile by Chase butted his horns against Chase's hoof ineffectually a few times and gave up.

“This is a dust devil,” said Chase to Rainbow Dash. “Gather up what you can of our stuff and pack our bags while I hold our little friend here. I don't think they'll try anything if it means I'll squish him.”

There was a collective gasp from the little devils and they scrambled to assist Rainbow Dash. Unfortunately most of the food was ruined. The jar of jam had landed on some rocks and was smashed and the bread was filthy. The clover had been scattered to the four winds. All that was salvageable were their packs, blankets, canteens and a few bruised apples. Rainbow Dash checked her pack and found three broken power bars still in their wrappers. She quickly packed.

“All set,” she told Chase. “I guess you can let the little guy go now.”

“Okay,” said Chase who then addressed the dust devils. “Sorry about disturbing your nest. You can keep the rest of the food as a peace offering. We'll leave now and won't cause you any more trouble as long as you leave us alone.”

This seemed agreeable to the devils as they chittered and nodded their little heads. Chase cautiously lifted the hoof holding down the captured devil who sprang to his feet and ran to join the others. Rainbow Dash assisted Chase with his pack and the pair took off. They looked back and saw the devils swarming over the ruined food. They tore it apart and began taking it down holes in the ground.

The pegasi gained altitude and soon Rainbow Dash got her bearings and headed towards the castle ruins once more. Looking around, Rainbow Dash noticed that the dark line of clouds they had seen earlier had shifted to the west but was sweeping like a sickle northwards. The way to the ancient ruins was still open but she was more worried about the way home.

“I guess you never saw a dust devil before,” said Chase, interrupting her thoughts.

“Huh? No, I haven't but I guess you have,” replied Dash.

“Yeah,” nodded Chase, “I ran into some a couple years ago out near Appleloosa. They like the arid regions. Never thought I'd see them in a forest.”

“That's the Everfree Forest alright,” said Dash grimly. “You never know what you'll run into.”

“I wonder what's next,” said Chase. “That storm seems to have circled to the west but it's heading north east now.”

“I noticed,” said Dash, “but I think we can make it to the ruins. If the storm hits, we can hole up there until it passes. I think it might be too late to turn back now anyway. We'd have to either fly through the storm or fly out of our way east to avoid it.”

“So we keep going?” asked Chase.

Dash thought for a moment. On one hoof, she didn't want to worry anypony by not returning on time and the weather team might need her help if the storm headed towards Ponyville. On the other, she also had a responsibility to keep her guest safe and didn't want to abandon Chase in the Everfree Forest.
Rainbow Dash sighed. “Yes, we keep going. We'll just have to hope the storm passes so we can get back to Ponyville tonight.”

“How far are the ruins?” asked Chase. “I can see lightning now.”

“I'd say about a half hour at our present speed,” answered Rainbow Dash, “but that's just a guess. I was only out here one time. Feel up to going a little faster?”

“Sure,” said Chase, “I'm not tired.”

Rainbow Dash smiled and increased her speed. Chase followed gamely and found he could match her pace without too much trouble. Either the little mare was finally tiring or she was taking it easy on him.

Chapter 3

After about twenty minutes the pair could see the outline of the old palace on the horizon. Beyond it was yet another band of storm clouds. The storm was closing in on them. Lightning flashed and loud rumbles of thunder became more frequent and soon they began to feel the sting of rain.

Rainbow Dash adjusted her goggles and accelerated. Chase flew after her but she slowly drew away from him. The rain stung harder with the faster speed and soon became almost unbearable. Then there was a sound to go with the stinging; a clacking sound as pellets of hail struck their goggles and saddlebags. They neared the ruins.

“”Wonderful!” thought Rainbow Dash, “we have to get undercover now!” She went into a shallow dive towards the nearest structure.

Chase was following as fast as he could. The impact of the hail had gone beyond stinging and was really hurting now. The hail stones were getting larger. One hit his goggles with enough force to crack the lens. He could see Dash ahead of him trying to both fly and shield her face with one hoof. She was losing feathers which whipped past him in his rapid descent.

Rainbow Dash flew over the bridge she had mended during the quest for the Elements of Harmony. She aimed for the door and skidded inside the building. Some rain and hail found it's way into the decaying structure through numerous holes but it was safe and dry for the most part. She looked back and saw Chase fly through the doorway. As he touched down his wet hooves skidded on the stones and he collided with a startled Rainbow Dash.

“Get off of me!” shouted Rainbow Dash.

She was lying on her back and pinned against the display that once held the Elements of Harmony. Chase was sitting on top of her with his tail in her face. Chase tried to rise and was assisted by a powerful push from all four of Rainbow Dash's hooves. He flipped over and landed upright a few hooves away.

“Sorry,” he stammered. “Are you okay?”

“I think I'll live,” said Rainbow Dash as she rose painfully. “I feel like I've been beat with sticks covered in bees.”

Chase laughed and instantly regretted it. “Ow! I know what you mean.” His lower lip was cut and puffy. He examined his injuries. There were bumps and bruises all over his body except for the areas protected by his bags and goggles. His once pristine wings were full of broken and bent feathers and gaps where some were missing altogether.

Rainbow Dash was doing the same thing. Her right eye had a nasty bruise and was swelling shut. She was shocked by the condition of her wings and abruptly sat down. She looked like she was going to cry.

“Some guide I turned out to be,” she muttered sadly.

“Hey, it's not that bad,” said Chase trying to comfort her. “I asked for an adventure and I sure got one. I got to meet a river serpent and you did get me to where we wanted to go. If it hadn't been for the trouble with the dust devils, we'd have made it here before the storm hit. Don't blame yourself. You made the right calls.”

Rainbow Dash gave a weak smile. “Thanks, I'm glad you don't blame me.”

“So what now?” asked Chase. “Is there a better room than this? What about that tower up there?”

“It's not much better than where we are,” said Rainbow. “and I don't know of anyway to get there without going outside. I've only been here once and really didn't get a chance to explore much.”

“May as well take a look around since we're trapped here,” suggested Chase. “I'll check those doors over there and you can take a look down that hallway.”

“Okay,” said Rainbow Dash, “call out if you find anything.”

Chase went to check the doors on the opposite side of the room and Rainbow Dash went to investigate the dark hallway nearby. It went only a short way before turning sharply to the left ending in a drop of unknown depth. Peering into the gloom, Dash could see a gap in the wall ahead and below her. A dim light entered and illuminated the wall below the Hall of the Elements. Here and there were the remnants of old timbers jutting out from the wall. They descended at regular intervals into the darkness below.

Rainbow Dash realized she was standing on a stone landing that once had wooden stairs going down to another part of the palace. The wood had long ago rotted away leaving only the more durable stone. She tested her sore wings and slowly flew downwards. She soon came to another stone landing. Here she had a choice to make. There was a large door to her left while the ruined stairs continued down in front of her. She decided to try the door.

Cautiously, Rainbow Dash pushed on the door. It moved inwards, grinding on rusty hinges which squealed as if angry at being disturbed after so long. She peered into the darkness but could see nothing at first. A flash of lightning came through a long vertical crack on the opposite side of the room, briefly providing some illumination. She swallowed hard and stepped into the room.

“Rainbow!” called Chase, “did you find anything?”

Rainbow Dash nearly jumped out of her skin. Angry at herself for losing her cool, she stuck her head back out the door. “Maybe,” she called back, “I'm checking it out now. Just wait there.”

She grimly re-entered the dark room and made her way as fast as she dared to the other side. She was not going to run back to Chase like some scared little filly just because of a dark room. Another flash of lightning outlined a large doorway. Rainbow pushed on the door but it didn't budge. Feeling around, she found a catch and two rings big enough to accept a pony hoof. Grasping one ring in her hoof, she lifted the catch with the other and pulled. The door opened.

The storm filtered light entered the room. Looking around, Rainbow Dash could see the remnants of furniture. A collapsed bed sat against a wall, it's decayed canopy crumbled atop it. There were dressers and wardrobes, couches and chairs, all in varying degrees of decomposition. The carpet was moth eaten and the paint was peeling off the walls. There were three other doors in the room but what really caught Rainbow dash's attention was the fireplace. If they could get a fire going they could at least get dried off and stay warm at night. Then she looked above the fireplace. There on the wall was a depiction of Celestia's cutie mark. The sun symbol was wider than the fireplace itself and was carved into the stone wall. Rainbow Dash giggled and walked back to the door.

“Hey Chase,” she called, “fly down here. I think I found us a room.”

Chase flew down to the landing and Dash beckoned him into the room. “Welcome to Princess Celestia's bedroom,” she said dramatically.

“You're kidding,” said Chase in awe.

Rainbow Dash pointed to the sun symbol. “It makes sense,” she said. “We're right under the hall that contained the Elements of Harmony. She probably wanted to have them close by.”

“Yeah,” said Chase in a hushed voice as he looked around. “This is where the Royal Pony Sisters lived a thousand years ago. Wow.”

“I think this would be a good place to hang for a while,” said Rainbow. “Maybe even spend the night if the storm doesn't let up. Do you think you could get a fire going?”

Chase snapped out of his revery. “Uh...maybe. Look around for small dry stuff and check to see if there are any lamps that might have some oil in them. I'll be right back.”

Chase went back upstairs and Rainbow Dash gathered what she could find. It wasn't difficult to find splinters of wood and scraps of old cloth in the room. As Chase did not return she decided to check the other doors. The first door collapsed as soon as she touched it revealing an empty closet. The second opened into what may have been an office but it was very dark and Rainbow Dash decided to wait to investigate further. The third door was difficult to open but she forced her way through into a bathroom. It was large with a huge tub. Near the tub was a contraption that Rainbow Dash figured was made for heating water. Most of the cabinets were empty and the mirror that had once hung on the wall had settled awkwardly to the floor, the glass was broken with only one jagged fragment stubbornly clinging to the frame.

Rainbow Dash checked the few remaining jars and bottles but their contents had long ago dried up. She took another look at the heater. There were two tanks on it. One was obviously made to hold water but the other had a pipe that entered the bottom portion. The whole thing was made of brass or bronze and had thus survived the passage of time. She removed the cap with some difficulty and sniffed at the contents. It smelled like some sort of oil. She found a piece of splintered wood and wrapped a shred of old cloth around it. She dipped it into the tank. When she pulled it back out she found the rag was damp with the contents. It looked more like syrup than oil but she hoped it would still burn.

Rainbow Dash returned to the bedroom and placed the oil soaked stick with the rest of the tinder. Chase still had not returned. She was about to go look for him when she heard the sound of wings at the doorway.

“It took me a while to find these,” said Chase as he laid two objects on the floor. “I saw some old torches upstairs and hoped somepony had left a flint and steel to light them. I found a couple of flints but the steel was nothing but rust.”

“So what are you going to do?” asked Dash.

Chase stomped a hoof. “I'll use the steel on my feet,” he said with a smile. “Don't you wear shoes?”

“No,” laughed Rainbow Dash. “I don't like the extra weight. I don't really need them in Ponyville anyway since the roads are made of dirt.”

“Well, I guess I'd better give it a try,” said Chase, “It's getting dark.”

“Try to get that stick with the rag on it to light,” said Dash. “I think it's soaked in old oil.”

It took Chase several minutes to get a small flame going but the oil soaked rag did ignite and quickly spread to the larger wood. Light from the fireplace flooded into the room and raised the spirits of the battered pegasi. The pair finally removed their saddlebags and relaxed for a short time. It was obvious that the original wood Rainbow Dash had gathered would not last long so they spent a little time breaking what remained of Princess Celestia's old furniture into usable pieces.

“I don't know about you, Chase,” said Rainbow Dash, “but I'm getting hungry. We may as well eat whatever we have left.”

“I guess,” said Chase, “not that we have that much.” He unpacked his saddlebags and Rainbow Dash followed suit.

What they had left was certainly no feast. Four apples and three power bars. An unexpected windfall was a small amount of clover in Chase's bag but it would only make a mouthful for each of them. They divided up their meager rations equally and began eating in silence.

“You don't think we should save anything for tomorrow?” asked Chase.

“I'm still hoping to fly to Ponyville tonight,” said Rainbow Dash. “If we can't, we'll leave first thing in the morning. We may be able to find some food when it gets light. If there's no food, we're going to be hungry until we make it back to Ponyville.”

“Alright, if you think we can get back tomorrow,” said Chase.

“I think so,” said Dash. “Violent storms like this don't usually last long.”

“Maybe not here,” replied Chase, “but along the coast it can go on for days. There was a bad one a couple years ago that stretched us to our limits. Cloudsdale and Canterlot even sent some extra ponies to help out.”

“I remember that,” said Rainbow Dash. “I almost went myself but we got some of it even this far inland so I had to stay.”

“The drawbacks of responsibility,” said Chase. “I can sympathize. There are a lot of times I'd rather be in the air with the team instead of in the control center.”

“Another reason to turn down your job offer,” said Rainbow Dash.

“My offer was to find you a place on the team,” replied Chase with a smile, “I didn't offer you my job.”

“How long do you think you'd hang onto it with me around?” teased Rainbow.

Chase laughed. “You would be out of your league, Rainbow,” he said. “The Manehatten Team operates a lot differently than Ponyville. You would make a great wing leader but you couldn't run the team the way you do here. And the politics, I don't even want to talk about that.”

“I'll admit I wouldn't care much for that,” said Rainbow Dash. “I don't think I'd care much for the city life either. If I ever go back to a city, it would be Cloudsdale. I grew up there.”

“I like Cloudsdale too,” said Chase, “but I have friends in Manehatten that couldn't even visit me there. I guess you know what I mean.”

“Yeah, earth ponies and unicorns don't really fit the Cloudsdale lifestyle,” admitted Dash.

“Any special pony you'd miss?” asked Chase.

Rainbow Dash looked at him. “Just friends, nothing romantic if that's what you meant.”

“Well, uh, yeah,” said Chase, “just curious.”

“It's okay,” said Rainbow Dash, “I stay pretty busy between the team, my aerobatics and some other things.”

“Like being one of the Elements of Harmony?” asked Chase.

“How did you know that?” asked Dash.

“Well, I didn't until just now,” replied Chase, “but I suspected. You knew about this palace and the room above us and what it was for. Your friends at the cafe said some things that made me think too.”

“Like what?” asked Rainbow Dash.

“Your friend Rarity implied that some 'very important ponies' would hear about it if anything happened to you,” said Chase. “I'm pretty sure she meant Princess Celestia. Twilight and Fluttershy seemed concerned for you too. Maybe it was just because they're your friends and then again, maybe not.”

“You're pretty smart,” said Rainbow Dash, “I guess there is a reason for you being team leader.”

“Thanks, I like to think so,” said Chase. “So, are you going to tell about it?”

“About what happened here?” asked Dash. “I guess so. It all started when Twilight Sparkle came to Ponyville to check on preparations for the Summer Sun Celebration. At least that's what Princess Celestia told her.”

Over the next hour Rainbow Dash told chase the story of Nightmare Moon and the Elements of Harmony. Every now and then Chase asked a question but for the most part he listened intently as Rainbow Dash told her tale.

“Then Celestia came in through the window and we found out that Nightmare Moon was really her sister Luna. And that's about all there is to tell,” concluded Dash.

“That was some story,” said Chase. “So Princess Luna and Nightmare Moon are the same pony? And Princess Celestia took her back? That is too much.”

“No,” said Rainbow Dash, “Luna and Nightmare aren't the same at all. I don't know the full story because it happened a thousand years ago but something happened to Luna that made her change. The Elements were able to change her back. She's actually pretty nice but I think she's lonely. I feel sorry for what happened to her. I hope you get to meet her someday. You'll see.”

“I'll take your word for it,” said Chase. “I remember stories from when I was a foal that scared me more than anything.”

“That's all they were, Chase,” said Dash, “just stories. But I guess the truth is just as scary. I kind of like the night but not eternal night. Anyway, she's okay now. She came to Ponyville on Nightmare Night and we got to know her better. She has a great sense of humor.”

“So what now? Still want to try flying back tonight?” asked Chase.

“Let's go check the weather,” said Rainbow, “I can still hear the rain but it doesn't seem as loud.”
The ponies went back upstairs and looked out the door towards Ponyville. Flashes of lightning could still be seen and thunder rumbled in the distance. Rainbow Dash took off into the rain and gained altitude. Chase hesitated and followed her up. The way back to Ponyville was completely blocked by the storm they had just endured. Worse still, another band of storms was approaching from behind them.

“So much for making it back tonight,” said Dash. “I don't want to get caught between these storms with no shelter. It'll be dark soon too.”

“Yeah,” agreed Chase, “I don't think I'd like to fly through that again.”

They flew down to the ruins and made their way back to the bedroom. It felt cozy after being out in the rain. Chase added some more wood to the fire and Rainbow Dash unrolled her blanket in front of the fire. A chilly wind blew through the room so Chase closed the doors as best as he could. He got his blanket and laid down next to Rainbow Dash on her blanket.

“What are you doing?” she asked suspiciously.

“I thought we could lay on your blanket and cover up with mine,” said Chase. “I'll be on my best behavior, I promise.”

Rainbow Dash thought for a second. It did make sense. They would be warmer that way. In the back of her mind was something else too. Though she would never admit it to anypony, she didn't like the idea of spending the night in these creepy ruins one bit. She was glad Chase was there. He was, after all, a big strong stallion. He seemed to like her and he was rather handsome... She abruptly cut off that line of thought.

“I guess that would be alright,” said Rainbow.

Chase smiled. He gave the blanket a flip with his head and it settled over them both. The flickering fire made them both drowsy. Even though it was not very late, both ponies were exhausted. They were tired, sore, damp and still a little hungry. Chase was the first to fall asleep. Rainbow Dash lay awake a while longer mesmerized by the fire. Chase shifted his position a bit and Rainbow Dash felt his breath against her neck. She almost changed her position to avoid it but decided that it was kind of pleasant. She stole a quick glance at Chase, laid her head back down, closed her eyes and was soon asleep.

Chapter 4

Rainbow Dash awoke slowly the next morning. It was still early and the damp night chill hung in the room. The fire was nearly out and gave off little warmth. She was fairly warm but still very sleepy and unaware of her surroundings. One thought entered her mind and she voiced it aloud without thinking.

“Why is my butt cold?” Rainbow Dash mumbled.

The sleepy mare felt something shift and cover her flank. “That's better,” she thought. She snuggled down into the blanket and tried to fall back to sleep but something was not right and it nagged at her. She slowly opened one eye. She was not at home and slowly the events of the previous day took shape. She lifted her head and turned to see what had covered her.

The blanket had ridden up around her midsection. Covering her hindquarters was a large brown wing. Chase! Rainbow Dash awoke fully and got to her hooves. Chase woke up and snorted.

“Huh? What?” he said.

“Er, good morning,” said Rainbow Dash. She stretched. “Ow,” she complained. “That blanket wasn't nearly as soft as my bed.”

Chase got to his hooves. “I feel like a giant bruise,” he said with a groan. “At least it looks like the weather cleared up.” Sunlight streamed in through the crack in the balcony door.

Rainbow Dash went to the door and opened it further. It was the most light the room had seen in a thousand years. She went out onto the balcony and stood in the sun.

Chase watched her. “She's really a pretty mare,” he thought, “too bad things probably wouldn't work out between us.” He frowned and started to walk towards her but a glint from something near the remains of the bed caught his eye and he went to see what it was.

Knocking aside some splintered wood and dust, Chase exposed a gilded box about the size of a large text book. Whether it was the type of metal or some enchantment, the box look nearly new and opened easily. Chase gasped at what he had found and looked again at Rainbow Dash. He thought for a moment and made a decision.

“Rainbow Dash?” he called, “would you come here a minute, I have something for you.”

Rainbow stuck her head in the door. “I hope it's a sandwich,” she replied.

“I'm afraid not,” said Chase with a laugh. “Come on, I guarantee you'll be surprised.”

Intrigued, Rainbow Dash came towards Chase who turned and went into the bathroom. Dash followed him.

“Stand in front of the mirror and close your eyes,” said Chase. Dash stared at him with a bemused look for a few seconds but obeyed.

Chase removed a gem encrusted necklace from the box and hung it around Rainbow Dash's neck. “There,” he said, “you can open your eyes now. I just found it and I think you deserve it after all you've been through.”

Rainbow Dash opened her eyes and saw what Chase had given her. The chain and settings were made of silver. Two spread wings jutted out from a central circle and were encrusted with sapphires and amethysts. A pattern of onyx and diamonds sat in the circle. “Oh Chase it's beautiful! Thank you so much! I've never seen anything like it. It's gorgeous. It...it...it's Princess Luna's.” She sighed.

“What?” cried Chase, “How do you know?”

“The crescent moon made of diamonds in the middle is Luna's cutie mark,” said Rainbow Dash. “And the colors are blue, purple and silver. It must belong to her. I really appreciate your generosity Chase, and I wish I could keep it but I'm afraid it will have to go to the Princess.”

“I guess you're right,” said Chase. “I wouldn't want us to get into trouble with royalty.”

“Yeah,” agreed Rainbow, “it sure looks good on me though.” She admired herself in the mirror again.

“You look great,” said Chase.

“I look like I've been in a fight,” said Rainbow Dash, “but thanks.”

“Maybe you should take it off,” suggested Chase, “just in case it's enchanted or haunted or something.”

“I don't feel any different,” said Dash, “but maybe you're right.” She admired herself in the mirror a little more, sighed and took off the necklace.

Chase held the box open and Rainbow Dash placed the necklace inside. “Put it in my saddle bag and I'll get Spike to send a letter to Celestia when we get back,” said Rainbow Dash. “That's one souvenir I'd like to keep.”

“But you won't?” said Chase.

“No,” said Dash, “it wouldn't be right. Come on! Let's see if we can find anything to eat.”

“Okay,” agreed Chase, “I'm starved.”

The pair walked through the bedroom to the balcony. Chase stopped long enough to put the necklace in Rainbow's saddlebag and put his own bags on. He then joined Rainbow on the balcony. The mare was standing by the rail looking down into what once had been a garden.

The remnants of walls and large paving stones littered the area. Though some trees had invaded the garden, it was still more open to the sky than the rest of the forest. In the center of the garden was a fountain with a statue. The statue was broken but once a rearing pony had stood on a pedestal. The hindquarters part of the pony was still in place but the front had collapsed into the pool at the base. The pony's face jutted out of the algae covered water and leaned against the side of the pool. A moss covered wing pointed skyward like the fin of a shark. Both pegasi found the scene disturbing. Chase was the first to shake off his dread.

“Look,” he said, “there's some grass. And there are some wildflowers too. I recognize them; they're safe to eat.”

“There's plum tree,” said Dash, “but I don't think they're ripe. Look there! Blackberry bushes. Come on!”

The pair flew down to the garden and began eating. It wasn't the best breakfast but they were able to sate the worst of their hunger pangs.

“That should last me until we get back to Ponyville,” said Rainbow Dash. “Are you ready to go?”

“We can leave now if you want,” said Chase, “but I'd like to look around a little bit first if that's okay.”

“Sure,” said Dash, “you really didn't get to see much last night. I've been up to that tower before. That's where we defeated Nightmare Moon.”

“Sounds like a good place to start,” said Chase.

The pair flew up to the causeway and walked the short distance to the tower where Nightmare Moon was banished and Luna returned. The room had not changed since the last time Rainbow Dash had been there. Her pace slowed as she neared the center of the room and Chase passed her.
Rainbow Dash stopped near where she and her friends had stood when they received the Elements. She smiled. That had been a great day and was something she was still proud of. She found it odd that she didn't think about it much anymore.

“Wow,” said Chase, “look at this. I think I found my souvenir”

Rainbow Dash looked at him and smiled. “Nightmare Moon's helmet? Yeah, that would be a great.”

“Gah!” cried Chase. He dropped Nightmare's helmet as if it had burned him.

Rainbow collapsed in a fit of laughter. Chase was not amused.

“You could have warned me,” he said.

“I wasn't paying attention,” said Rainbow. “Anyway, I think it would be safe if you really want to take it.”

Chase eyed the helmet suspiciously. “You think so?”

“It's just a hunk of metal,” said Rainbow. “Luna left it here so she must not want it anymore.”

“I'll keep it in mind,” said Chase, “but I think I'll look around a little more.”

Rainbow Dash flew over to Chase and tried on Nightmare's shoes. “How do I look in these?” she asked.

“Very fetching,” said Chase. “Are you going to take them?”

“Nah,” replied Dash, “not my size.” She flapped her wings and the shoes fell off as she rose.

Chase laughed. “I guess she was a big girl.”

“As big as Celestia,” replied Dash. “Here's what's left of her breast plate. It's even too big for you.”

“Yeah,” said Chase, “that's pretty cool too.”

“Well, she may have been evil but she sure knew how to dress,” said Dash with a laugh.

“Let's look around some more,” said Chase. “If I can't find anything else, maybe I'll take that helmet.”

There was not much in the chamber so they started to search behind the few doors in the room. It was set up in a similar fashion to the Hall of the Elements. A stair, also rotted away, led down to lower levels. They stopped at the first level and entered the open door. It was laid out identically to Celestia's room where they had spent the previous night. It was not nearly as well preserved. It’s balcony door was missing completely and the balcony itself had been reduced to a jagged ledge.

The biggest difference between Celestia's room and that of Luna was the decor. There was no evidence of carpet on the floor. It was black marble with a crescent moon of white in the center. The motif was repeated on the ceiling. The walls too, were black, studded with small crystal stars, as random as the night sky.

“It's like walking in space,” said Chase in awe. “It's beautiful and scary at the same time.”

Rainbow Dash was more succinct. “Creepy,” she said.

The other rooms in the suite where similar to the bedroom with decayed furniture and old broken items of indecipherable purpose. They returned to the bedroom and there Chase found a souvenir. He had been examining the fireplace more closely and bumped a decorative moon symbol on the mantle. To his surprise, it came loose.

“I'll hang onto this,” said Chase. “I should be able to polish it up real nice.”

“Good,” replied Dash, “now lets go. I feel like I'm in a tomb or something.”

“Okay,” said Chase, “I'm going to fly down to the bottom level on the way out. I just want to see how far it goes.”

“Okay,” said Dash, “I'm going back to Celestia's room and pack up. Be careful, alright? I'll come look for you if you don't come back soon.”

“Relax,” said Chase, “I'll be fine. Check and see if the fireplace symbol on Celestia's fireplace is loose too. I may as well make it a set.”

“Heh,” laughed Dash, “okay. Don't be long.” She walked to the balcony and took off, flying directly back to Celestia's balcony.

Rainbow Dash checked the mantle and indeed the sun symbol came off easily. She put it in her bag and packed her blanket and canteen. Chase had not returned so she decided to check the lower rooms. The hole in the outer wall let in enough light to see into the depths below. She flew slowly down.

The next level was partially blocked but the doors had collapsed inwards and Dash was able to enter. It was darker than the bedroom. Individual rooms ran along one wall but only one doorway was on the other. Dash entered the single doorway and looked around. Light from a shattered window let light into what once had been a kitchen.

She was surprised to find a few dishes lying on the stone counter. She blew off the dust and saw both Celestia and Luna's marks on them. “Chase will love these,” she thought. She gathered up a few of the best plates, wrapped them in her blanket and returned it to her saddlebag.

Dash left the kitchen and after a few glances into the other rooms, returned to the landing. She flew down to the next floor. Here, her way was blocked by fallen stones. She could see the top of an arch but the way was completely blocked and instead of a landing the passage ended in a wall. She flew back to the bedroom.

Chase had still not returned so she flew back to the Hall of Elements and walked out onto the causeway. She had just started walking toward the tower where she had left Chase when he appeared flying towards her.

“Are you ready to go?” asked Rainbow.

“I guess so,” said Chase as he landed in front of her. “ Did you get that sun symbol?”

“Yeah,” replied Rainbow, “and I went down a level and found you a few old royal dishes.”

“Really?” said Chase with excitement. “Can I see them?”

“They're all packed up,” said Dash, who was anxious to be off, “wait until we get back. Did you find anything else?” His bags looked more bulky than they had been.

“Just a couple things,” said Chase, “I couldn't get into the next level because the door was blocked. I flew to the bottom but it was under water.”

“The bottom level here was blocked too,” said Dash. “Come on! Let's do some flying!”

Chapter 5

Rainbow Dash did not wait for an answer and took off towards Ponyville. Chase really wanted to explore more but he knew that Rainbow Dash needed to get home. There were probably ponies looking for them by now. He reluctantly followed her into the clear sky.

They flew in silence for a while and the ruins faded in the distance and the forest stretched out before them. Chase flew up along side Dash.

“Are you planning on flying straight through to Ponyville?” he asked.

“Pretty much,” replied Dash, “I figure we can stop when we get to the river and get some water but that's about it. Are you okay? I'm still hurting from that storm myself.”

“I'm alright,” said Chase, “I'm sore too, especially my right wing, but I can make it.”

“Well, let me know if you're having trouble,” said Dash, “I can't carry you out on my back.”

“I'll be fine, “said Chase, “and this pace is good. I can handle it.”

Rainbow Dash looked at Chase. He looked alright but there was something in his voice that made her worry a bit. She decided to keep an eye on him and kept what she felt was an easy pace. He continued to fly with her for quite some time and they made good progress. They talked little as both were tired and weak from hunger. They sighted the river in the distance and Rainbow Dash turned to talk to Chase only to find that he was not there. Looking around she saw that he was twenty lengths behind her and was losing some altitude. She dropped back and flew beside him.

“I thought you were going to tell me if you were having trouble,” chided Rainbow. “The river isn't far now. Just stay in the air another minute or two.”

Chase smiled. “Sorry, I wasn't paying attention and fell behind. I can make it. A little rest and a drink and I'll be ready to go again.”

Rainbow Dash said nothing. It was obvious that Chase was putting on an act. She had done it often enough herself to tell when another pony was doing it. They flew on together and landed by the river.

Dash shrugged off her saddlebags and went to assist Chase with his. To her surprise he backed away.

“I've got it,” he said as he removed the bags. They dropped to the ground with a clang. Chase winced when he heard the sound.

“Chase,” said Rainbow Dash, “what do you have in those saddle bags?”

“Oh, um, just some souvenirs.” he replied sheepishly.

Dash shouldered her way past him and opened the bags. Inside was Nightmare Moon's armor.

“Oh sweet Celestia,” said Dash, “you've got to be kidding me. You took all her armor?”

“I guess I got a little carried away.” said Chase.

Dash started to dig through the bag. “Alright, I'll help you carry some of this stuff but... What is this?”

Dash pulled out a stone slab, then another and again two more. She glared at Chase.

“I went back to Luna's office after you left and found this cool table top on the floor,” explained Chase.
“You put it together in a frame and it forms a picture. I thought...”

“It's made of marble you rock head!” Dash yelled. “Between this and the armor, you're carrying close to half your own weight! How did you expect to fly all the way to Ponyville with all this junk?”

“I got it this far didn't I?” countered Chase becoming irritated himself. “I can get it the rest of the way.”

“I really doubt that,” said Dash angrily. “Look at yourself. If you were in good shape you probably could do it, but you're not. You're injured and you haven't had a real meal since yesterday morning. Even if we fly slower you're going to have a hard time.” She reached down and dumped the bags out completely.

Rainbow Dash started to separate the items and found something else. “Bricks!” she screamed. “You brought bricks!”

“Turn them over,” said Chase hastily, “They have some really nice carvings on them. I took them from around the bathroom window.”

Rainbow Dash was really angry now. For a while she couldn't even speak. She sputtered incoherently and raised up on her hind legs as if to strike Chase. She couldn't hit him. He was in bad enough shape as it was. She spun and stalked away to a rock that jutted out into the river and laid down with her back to him.

Chase looked at her and then at the pile of loot on the ground. He realized she was right. There was no way he could haul all of this much further. He had failed to take into account his weakened state. It wasn't fair to ask Rainbow to carry more weight either, even though she had offered.

“I'm sorry,” Chase said at last, “you're right. I can't do it in my present condition. I'll leave it all.”

Rainbow turned to look at him. He was obviously embarrassed. That stung her a bit and changed some of her anger to pity. “Okay,” she said sternly, “lets pack up. I'll help you with some of it but anything stone stays behind. If you really want that stuff, you can come back for it later.”

“No pony will take it?” asked Chase.

“Look around,” said Dash, “we're in the middle of a forest. There's nothing here that wants your junk.”

“I guess not,” said Chase with a smile. “Let me get a drink first.”

“I need one too,” said Dash. “and fill your canteen, just in case.”

They both took a long drink and filled their canteens. There was even a little grass near the river and they ate what they could. They could have searched for more but it was at least noon now and they still had a flight of about two hours to go. They repacked their saddlebags and took flight. Rainbow's bags were considerably heavier but Chase's were much lighter and he could keep up now.

They flew in silence for a while and at last Chase couldn't take it any longer. “Still mad?” he asked.

Dash didn't look at him. “A little,” she said. “I'm a little disappointed too. I thought you would have known better.”

“Yeah,” said Chase, “I guess I do know better. I tend to go after things I want and I'm pretty sure of my abilities.”

Rainbow Dash said nothing for a moment as she thought about this. At last a smile crept onto her face. “I know what that's like,” she said.

“Curse of the pegasi,” said Chase.

“Huh? What's that?” asked Dash.

“Just something a history teacher told me once,” said Chase. “You know how long ago we were a warrior race, right?”

“Sure,” said Dash, “I even played Commander Hurricane in a Hearth Warming Eve play once.”

Chase chuckled. “I'm sure you'd have made a good one. Anyway, this teacher had a theory about pegasi being hot headed, take charge kind of ponies because of our warrior past. He said that even though it allows us to do some just super things, it can also get us into a lot of trouble because we don't think ahead. We're not naturally studious or artistic like unicorns or patient and steady like earth ponies. We just try to force things to be what we want. He called it a curse.”

“Was he a pegasi?” asked Dash.

“No,” said Chase, “he was a unicorn.”

“Figures,” replied Dash, but she secretly could see the reasoning behind the teachers theory.

“He thought we'd be even worse but all three races have benefited from interbreeding over the centuries since Equestria was founded,” said Chase. “So you might get a studious earth pony or a unicorn that's quicker to act or a patient pegasi. It's just that now and then a pegasi of the old type pops up.”

“And you're one of those?” asked Dash with a laugh.

“Maybe,” said Chase, “or sometimes anyway.”

“Sure sounds like I'm one of the old type,” said Rainbow Dash.

“Nah,” said Chase, “a true old pegasi would have killed me when she found all that stuff in my bags.”

“I thought about it,” said Dash.

Both pegasi laughed and they flew in silence for a while. Rainbow Dash thought she was steering a true course but continued to look around for landmarks. Then, in the distance, two specks appeared in the sky. She altered her course and flew towards them.

“What is it?” asked Chase.

“I think I see a couple of pegasi over there,” replied Dash. “They might be a search party or we're getting close to Ponyville.”

“Good,” said Chase, “this wing is killing me.”

“You got guts, Chase,” said Rainbow, “I'll give you that.”

Author's Note

Names of Ponyville Weather Team and the jeweler were taken from a list I found on wikia. Rain Chaser and Red Blaze are OC's and any resemblance to anyone else's OC is pure coincidence. (seriously, there's only so many weather related names to go around for pegasi) This was started in the pre-alicorn Twilight days and I didn't change it. Wouldn't really make much difference to the story anyway. Apologies for some format errors I may have missed editing. Program I used , or maybe saved as, doesn't seem to like to transfer well.

Part 2

Chapter 6

It seemed that the pegasi in the distance had seen the two adventurers. Both pairs were closing rapidly with each other.

“Thunderlane! Flitter! Am I glad to see you,” cried Rainbow Dash as they met up and hovered in the air.

“Us too boss,” said Thunderlane. “Are you okay?”

“A little beat up and hungry but we'll live,” said Dash. “How is Ponyville? Was the storm very bad?”

“Nothing we couldn't handle,” said Thunderlane. “It was starting to break up by the time it got to the edge of Everfree.”

“Yeah,” said Flitter, “it took all of us but we just herded it along and sent it off south of town. We could have used your help.”

“That's for sure,” said Thunderlane. “What happened to you? You look awful.”

“Long story,” said Dash, “I'll tell you when we get back.”

“Speaking of which, can we get going?” asked Chase. “You two might be fresh but we're not.”

“We aren't really 'fresh' either,” said Flitter. “We were on storm duty until late last night and then came out on patrol looking for you first thing this morning.”

“Don't mind Chase,” said Dash, “he's got a sore wing from some hail last night. But let's get going.”

“You want us to take your bags?” offered Thunderlane.

“Please!” said Chase, “I'd really appreciate it.”

“Take his bags, Thunder,” said Dash, “Flitter? Has anypony checked on Zecora?”

“I don't think so,” said Flitter. “I was in town this morning and didn't see her.”

“Then you go have a look,” said Dash, “I can get my bags home and the storm might have been worse where she lives.”

Thunderlane took Chase's bags and, with some assistance from Flitter, got them on in mid-air.

“Kinda heavy,” said Thunderlane, “what do have in here? Rocks?”

“Not anymore,” said Dash with a laugh. “Come on, I need a meal.”

Flitter headed towards Zecora's home while the other three pegasi continued on to Ponyville. It was a relief for Dash and Chase to finally reach the edge of the forest.

“Let's get you to the doctor,” said Dash to Chase.

“After we eat,” replied Chase. “Head to your place so I can get some bits from my other bags.”

They landed at Rainbow Dash's home and Dash and Thunderlane dropped their bags while Chase retrieved his money. Rainbow Dash got the box containing the necklace from her bag. She had to unload a few other things in order to get to it.

“What's that?” asked Thunderlane.

“That is Nightmare Moon's helmet,” replied Dash casually, “we picked up a few things last night. These medallions came from Princess Celestia's old castle.”

“Is that the kind of stuff that was in the bag I was carrying?” asked Thunderlane nervously.

“Yeah, but not as much of it,” said Dash. “I hope the dishes came through okay.”

“Dishes?” said Thunderlane.

Rainbow Dash carefully unrolled her blanket. The plates were intact. “Yes!” she said in triumph. “See Chase, you don't have to pick the heaviest stuff to bring back something cool.”

Chase walked over and examined the plates. “Yeah, those are very nice. And you got them for me?”

“Sure,” said Dash, “I don't really collect things like this.”

“Thanks Rainbow,” said Chase, “they're beautiful.” He looked at Rainbow Dash. She had returned her gaze to the plates and didn't see the look he gave her but Thunderlane did.

Thunderlane smiled. “You need anything else Rainbow Dash?”

“Yes, tell Twilight Sparkle to meet us at the cafe and to bring Spike and a scroll with her. Then see to it that the search parties are recalled,” said Rainbow Dash. “I'm going to get something to eat and then get cleaned up. I'll be around town if you need me.”

“Will do, Rainbow,” said Thunderlane, “glad you made it back in one piece.” He glanced at Chase and headed for the door.

“Hey Thunder,” said Dash, “pass along a job well done from me. I'll tell them myself later, but let them know I think you all did a great job.”

“Sure, boss,” replied the weather pony proudly, “glad you think so.”

“You've got a good crew and I can tell they're glad to have you back,” said Chase. “Ready to eat?”

“They're a good crew alright,” said Dash, “and yes, I'm ready to eat. I'm starved.”

Chapter 7

The pair floated down to the cafe and asked for a table but the waiter stared at them with a look of shock on his face.

“Perhaps madam and sir would like to clean up first and come back later?” he suggested.

“What?” said Rainbow Dash tersely. She was not in the mood for this.

“I'm sorry madam,” explained the waiter, “but we have certain standards to maintain. I do hope you understand.”

“Listen you,” said Dash, “we look this way because we were trapped in the Everfree Forest overnight and got caught in a hail storm. We're exhausted, hungry and injured. The last real meal we had was when we were here yesterday morning. How about over-looking your 'standards' just this once.”

“Yeah,” added Chase, “there's hardly anypony here anyway.”

The waiter didn't budge. “I am sorry but we don't make exceptions. If you would just...”

“Do you know who I am?” asked Rainbow Dash.

“Of course, madam,” said the waiter, “you are Rainbow Dash but...”

“Right,” continued Rainbow Dash, “and what do I do for a living?”

“Madam is in charge of the Ponyville Weather Team,” said the waiter, “but I don't understand what...”

“Right again,” said Dash. “One more question; how many days is it going to rain on this cafe over the next month if I don't get to eat very soon?”

“I don't know,” said the waiter slowly.

“I do,” said Rainbow Dash with an evil grin.

“Oh! You wouldn't,” said the waiter.

“Try me,” said Dash, very distinctly.

The waiter looked at Chase who shrugged. “I think you'd better either seat us or buy a boat,” said Chase.

The waiter gave up and seated the bedraggled pair. A team of two waiters stood by getting the pegasi anything they wanted as fast as they could.

“I'll have to leave a big tip for this kind of service,”said Chase with a smile. “You wouldn't have really made it rain here, would you?”

Rainbow Dash smiled and gave her attention to the salad that appeared in front of her. “All I said was that I knew how many days it would rain here over the next month,” she said innocently between bites.

“Right,” chuckled Chase, “but I'll bet that number would have changed if that waiter didn't serve us. He was right about us though, we look awful.”

Dash laughed. “I know! Dirt, bumps and bruises, dried blood; it's no wonder the poor guy wanted to keep us out.”

“That eye of yours is a beaut too,” said Chase. “You should get that looked at. Does it hurt?”

“Only if I touch it,” said Dash, “the hail stone hit me just below my goggles.”

* * *
The pair of hungry pegasi ate rapidly and kept ordering more. They were finishing their entree's and glancing toward the dessert cart when Twilight Sparkle arrived with Spike on her back. She immediately threw her hooves around Rainbow Dash and hugged her.

“Thank Celestia you're alright,” she said. “We were so worried when you didn't come home. What happened to you?”

“We had a few mishaps,” said Dash. “Then the storm cut off our way home. I'll tell you the whole thing when everypony gets here. There's Rarity and Pinky Pie now.”

Rainbow's two friends were approaching at the gallop and treated her to the same welcome that Twilight had. As the table was getting crowded, the two waiters moved another table into place so that all could have a seat. Chase and Rainbow Dash found themselves sitting side by side being bombarded by questions.

“My stars dear,” said Rarity, “how did you ever get in such a state? We must get you to the spa at once.”

“You two had an adventure!” said Pinky Pie, “Was it fun? Did you meet any interesting ponies?”

“Why did you need me to bring a scroll and Spike,” asked Twilight. “Do you need to send a friendship letter to the Princess?”

“Waiter, I'll have a piece of carrot cake,” said Rainbow Dash, “and an apple tart.”

“Me too,” said Chase as he pushed away his empty plate.

“That's not an answer,” complained Pinky Pie, “tasty but not an answer.”

“Sorry, Pinky Pie,” said Rainbow Dash, “but we were really hungry. I guess I'll answer Twilight's question first.” She picked the necklace box off the floor and set it on the table. “This is why I need to send a letter.”

Rainbow Dash opened the box and the ponies gasped at the beautiful necklace. “Chase found this,” said Dash. “He tried to give it to me but I figured out who it really belonged to.”

“Princess Luna,” said Twilight.

“Yeah,” said Dash, “funny thing was, it was in Celestia's bedroom.”

“What?”said Rarity, “Why were you in the Princess's bedroom?”

“We spent last night there,” said Chase. “It was one of the drier rooms.”

“Where did Princess Celestia sleep?” asked Pinky Pie.

“We were in the old palace in the forest Pinky,” said Rainbow Dash laughing, “not Canterlot. Anyway, I think we should send a letter to the Princess and tell her we have it.”

“Of course,” agreed Twilight, “Spike, take a letter.”

“Ready,” said the little dragon.

Twilight took over at this point and dictated the letter assisted by comments from Chase and Rainbow Dash. Soon the note was complete and Spike sent it on it's way.

“Convenient,” said Chase, “never saw that one before. If you ladies would like something, please feel free, it's on me. You too Spike.”

“No gems Spike,” said Twilight before the dragon could order.

“I'll pass then,” said Spike.

Rarity ordered some tea and a slice of pie, Pinky ordered several cupcakes while Twilight was content with an apple juice. Spike eyed the necklace and drooled. Pinky tossed him a cupcake to take his mind off it.

“Where's Fluttershy and Applejack,” asked Rainbow Dash, ”I don't want to tell this story twice.”

“Oh c'mon RD. You know you never get tired of talking about yourself,” said a voice.

“Applejack! You're getting sneaky,” said Rainbow Dash. “Where's Fluttershy?”

“Fluttershy is out looking for you,” said Twilight. “I suppose Thunderlane or one of the other pegasi will find her.”

“She didn't go out alone did she?” asked Dash in alarm.

“No,” said Twilight, “I know they went out in pairs. She went with Cloudchaser.”

“That's a relief,” said Dash. “We don't need to send out another search party.”

“Come on you two, tell us what happened,” begged Pinky Pie, “You can tell Fluttershy when she gets back.”

“Yes,” agreed Rarity, “besides you need to get that eye looked at and get cleaned up.”

“Oh alright,” said Dash, “I'll give you the short version. Chase is hurt too and we really should get him to a doctor.”

“I'm okay,” said Chase, “I flew here didn't I?”

“Okay, okay,” said Rainbow Dash. “I decided to take Chase to see the old Palace in the Everfree Forest.”

“That's a long way,” said Pinky Pie.

“It's not too bad if you have wings,” Dash pointed out. “We left here and flew to that river where Rarity gave her tail to the serpent. Steve is wearing it as an ear ring now, Rarity, since his mustache grew back and he said to say high. After that, we flew for a while and stopped to have lunch. That's when the dust devils attacked us. They ruined most of our food but we got a little back and our packs and blankets. By then we were getting behind schedule and we could see the storm coming on. We kept going and almost got to the old ruins when we got caught in a hail storm. That's where I got the black eye and Chase hurt his wing. We took shelter inside and explored a little and found Celestia's old bedroom. We couldn't get home because of the storm so we burned the Princess's furniture and spent the night there. The next morning Chase found Princess Luna's necklace. He gave it to me but I knew Luna would want it so I just brought it back. Then we looted the palace and came home and that's about it.” She took a bite of her apple tart.

Rainbow Dash's friends stared at her with open mouths. Twilight was the first to recover.

“You looted the palace?” Twilight said in horror.

“You burned Celestia's furniture?” said Pinky Pie in shock.

“My tail is an ear ring?” asked Rarity in confusion.

“There's dust devils in the forest?” asked Applejack. “I sure hope they stay there.”

“Yes, yes, yes and yes,” replied Dash between bites.

“What did you take?” asked Twilight.

“Just some souvenirs for Chase,” answered Dash. “Nothing valuable that the Princesses might want. There really wasn't much there. I found a few dishes and we pried the sun and moon symbols off the fireplaces... oh and Nightmare Moon's armor. Chase had some other stuff but it was too heavy so we left it by the river.”

“What do you think Princess Celestia is going to think of that?” said Twilight. “And burning her furniture? What were you thinking?”

“I was thinking that I was cold and wet,” replied Dash. “Besides, the furniture was all rotten and falling apart. It was a thousand years old you know. If Princess Celestia had wanted any of that junk, she could have gotten it long ago.”

“I'd be more worried about what Princess Luna would think about some pony having her old armor,” said Spike.

“It's not Luna's, it's Nightmare Moon's,” said Dash. “There's a difference.”

“I guess so...kinda,” said Applejack.

“Maybe the Princess will be so glad to get the necklace back that she won't mind that you took the other stuff,” said Pinky Pie.

“Maybe,” said Twilight. “I imagine we'll find out soon. I'd bet my horn at least one of them will show up soon.”

“Chase, if you're done eating, let's go see the doctor,” said Rainbow Dash. “Then maybe we can get cleaned up before Celestia or Luna shows up.”

“Sounds good to me,” said Chase. “Waiter, check please.”

Chapter 8

The bill was more than what he had planned on paying but Chase paid it willingly and did leave the waiters a good tip. Having given the necklace to Twilight, Rainbow Dash joined Chase and the pair headed to the horsepital. Her friends went to Twilight's home to await word from Celestia.

“You don't think we're in any trouble do you,” asked Chase. The reactions of Twilight and the others had made him think that stealing artifacts from a royal palace wasn't such a good idea after all.

“Nah,” said Dash, “Twilight worries too much. The Princesses are pretty cool.”

They arrived at the horsepital and were cared for by the staff. Since very little of their bodies were uninjured, both were put into baths and had their open wounds cleaned. The warm water did wonders and a lot of the soreness left them. Rainbow Dash would have fallen asleep in her bath if the nurse had let her. Her eye was bandaged but not in a way that impeded her vision. Chase's injuries took a bit longer as the doctor thought his wing might be broken. In the end the doctor diagnosed that it was only a deep bruise and recommended not flying for a few days if he could avoid it. They left the horsepital and headed to Twilight Sparkle's home.

* * *
“I guess I'll take the train back to Manehatten,” said Chase in a depressed tone. “I don't know about not flying at all for a few days though.”

“I know what you mean,” said Rainbow Dash with a laugh. “Trust me, it feels like a lot longer.”

“I don't know about you,” said Chase, “but I feel a lot better. Even my wing is not as sore.”

“Yeah,” agreed Dash, “I feel better too. You know what Chase? Even with all that went wrong, that was the most fun I've had in a long time.”

Chase laughed. “That was fun? Well, it wasn't all bad; at least the company was good.”

“Thanks,” said Rainbow Dash. She blushed and looked away and tried to stifle an uncool giggle.

They arrived at Twilight's library and knocked on the door. Spike answered and let them in. Fluttershy had also just arrived and greeted Rainbow Dash warmly. Cloudchaser was still there having flown back with her search partner.

“We were worried about you Dashie,” said Fluttershy. “The others told me about your adventure, it must have been awful.”

“Parts of it were a little tough but we had a great time,” said Rainbow. “I was more worried when I found out you went out looking for us. ”

“Ha!” said Cloudchaser, “I had a hard time keeping up with her. She had to check every opening in the trees to see if you'd crashed. She's a good searcher, that's for sure.”

Dash had to laugh at this but she was touched by Fluttershy's efforts. “Sorry if I scared you Fluttershy but we really weren't in much danger. We just got trapped. That's all.”

“Doesn't sound too bad,” commented Cloudchaser as she looked at Chase. “I'd better go let Thunderlane know I'm back.”

“Twilight got a reply from the Princess,” said Rarity as she checked herself in a mirror. “She's waiting for Luna to wake up and then they're both coming here. Come here Rainbow Dash, your mane is a mess. We must make you presentable for the Princess.” Reluctantly, Dash obeyed.

“Looks like we'll get to see a sun-setting and a moon-raising,” said Twilight, “unless they do it before coming here.”

“I brought some snacks,” said Pinky Pie. “I wanted to have a party but Twilight said 'no'. Maybe tomorrow we can have a welcome home adventurers party or welcome to Ponyville party for Chase or combination party.”

“Okay, Pinky Pie okay,” said Applejack, “we can have a party out at the farm. How's that?”

“Really?” cried Pinky, “that'll be super! A welcome to Ponyville welcome home adventurers party in Applejack's barn party!”

“Really Applejack?” said Twilight.

Applejack nodded. “I don't mind. It'll be fun.” She leaned over and whispered to Twilight. “Besides, now that she has a party to plan, maybe she'll stop talking about it.”

“Your turn Chase,” said Rarity.

“What?” asked Chase.

“She wants to fix your hair,” explained Rainbow Dash, “just go with it.”

Chase had to admit that Rainbow Dash looked better so he submitted to Rarity's ministrations. Rarity had barely finished when there was a knock at the door. Spike answered it and immediately bowed. The Princesses had arrived.

Chapter 9

The rulers of Equestria entered the library. All the ponies joined Spike in bowing to the two sisters. To the relief of Rainbow Dash and Chase, both were smiling.

Princess Celestia stopped. “Rise our faithful ponies,” she said warmly.

Princess Luna was surprisingly less formal. She walked past her sister and embraced Twilight Sparkle. “It is good to see you again, my friend,” said the ruler of the night. “Indeed, it is good to see you all. I have missed you.”

This seemed to surprise Celestia but she made no comment on her sister's behavior. “I see the two explorers are here,” she said. “What you found was lost so long ago that I had forgotten it. It pleases me that you brought it back and did not try to keep it for your own. It is very precious.”

“It wouldn't have been right, your highness,” said Rainbow Dash, stepping forward. “Chase, I mean Rain Chaser here, found it but didn't know what it was. I figured that it was Princess Luna's and knew she'd want anything that beautiful back.”

“I don't understand,” said Princess Luna.

Princess Celestia hung her head for a moment. “Please, give me the box, Twilight,” she said.

Twilight levitated the box to Celestia who took control with her own magic. She turned to her sister. “Long ago when we lived in the old palace, I had this made for you, my dear sister,” said the sun princess sadly. “I knew you were unhappy and I wanted to get you something special. I wanted to give it to you on your birthday but when that birthday came you were...gone. So many birthdays have passed since then that I don't want to make you wait any longer. This is yours, dear Luna.”

Luna took control of the box and held it in front of her. She opened the gift and gazed at the beauty of the necklace. She lifted it slowly from the box and held it before her eyes which welled with tears. “Oh Tia, it...it's lovely, thank you so much,” she said. She went to her sister and wrapped her forelegs and wings around her.

They stood like that for a little while. At last Luna drew away and silently levitated the necklace around her neck. She turned and faced the ponies with smile on her face. The ponies all had tears in their eyes. Even Rainbow Dash couldn't hold back hers. To help cover this she started applauding and was joined by the rest of her friends.

“Now then,” said Princess Celestia at last, “you must tell us all about your adventure.”

Chase stepped forward before Rainbow Dash could speak, afraid that she might give the 'short version' again. “I guess that I started the whole thing, your highness,” he said. “I look for interesting places to go on my vacations and I had heard about the Everfree Forest. I asked Rainbow Dash's friends for a guide and they recommended her. She was a great guide too, it was one of the best adventures I've ever had.”

Over the next half hour Chase, and at times Rainbow Dash, told the tale of their trip. By the time they had brought it up to meeting Thunderlane and Flitter it was early evening.

“I would love to stay a little longer and hear more,” said Celestia, “there are some more questions I'd like to ask but we should be getting back. It's almost time to raise the moon.”

“We can stay longer,” said Luna, “I will simply go outside and raise it.”

“You're not used to raising the moon from anywhere but Canterlot,” said Celestia, “we really should go home.”

“Piffle,” said Luna, “I can raise the moon from anywhere.”

“Piffle?” said Celestia.

“Piffle,” repeated the moon princess, “and it is time to raise the moon. Can you not feel it?”

“You're right,” agreed Celestia. “Come sister, the citizens of Ponyville should enjoy this.”

* * *
Luna smiled and the two royal sister went to the door. The rest of the assembly followed. Outside there was quite a crowd. The arrival of the Princesses had not gone without notice. The ponies cheered and the sisters waved to the crowd.

“It is time sister,” said Celestia, “are you sure you can do this?”

“Of course,” replied Luna, “my powers have been returning. Let us begin.”

The Princesses rose into the air and faced in opposite directions. Their horns glowed and their eyes went white as they concentrated energy to move the celestial spheres. The sun went down and the moon rose in unison.

The ponies of Ponyville had never seen a display quite like that before and cheered louder. The two alicorns returned to the ground. Eventually the cheering died down but the crowd stayed as if waiting for something more.

“Duty calls,” said Celestia to her sister. Luna put a hoof over her mouth to hide her laughter.

“Our loyal subjects,” began Celestia, “thank you for this welcome. We came here on other business but we are glad that you enjoyed watching us perform our royal duties. This is the first time Princess Luna has raised the moon from somewhere other than Canterlot.”

The ponies cheered again and Luna blushed. She was not used to being cheered and looked to her sister. Celestia just smiled and nodded towards the crowd. Luna stepped forward and waved.

“Thank you so much,” boomed Luna, “it is good to see you all again!”

Twilight trotted forward and whispered to Luna. “Princess Luna, remember; softer voice.”

“Oh yes, of course,” replied the Princess. “Citizens of Ponyville,” she continued in a more normal tone, “We...I had almost forgotten how warm and friendly this town is. My sister and I are only here on a brief, unofficial visit and we must soon return to Canterlot but I promise to return on Nightmare Night this year and scare you all again!”

Celestia looked at her sister in alarm and was further confused when the crowd once again erupted in cheers. She looked at her sister again and then to Twilight who smiled nervously. Celestia regained her composure and, after a final wave to the crowd, headed back to the library. The others followed behind.

* * *
Once inside everypony made an effort to get comfortable. Spike went around with a tray of snacks.
“Before we go back to hearing more from Rain Chaser and Rainbow Dash,” began Celestia, “I am curious to know why your announcement, dear Luna, brought cheering from our subjects.”

“They find it 'fun', my sister,” said Luna. “I'm not sure I understand it completely myself but they do seem to like it.”

“Fun?” said Celestia, “And you've done this before?”

“Last Nightmare Night,” said Luna, “did not start out well. Twilight Sparkle figured out a what my problems were and by the end of the night we were all having fun. Part of that was me scaring them, especially the children.”

“You were scaring little fillies and colts and they liked it?” said Celestia. The look on her face reflected her confusion.

“It was all in good fun Princess Celestia,” said Rainbow Dash. “I was doing the same thing. Nightmare Night is great for pranks.”

“It was a way for allowing the ponies to see your sister having fun,” said Twilight. “You've probably heard some of the scary stories about Nightmare Moon. I think that Luna acting some of them out and making fun of them let the ponies see her as somepony good, somepony who's nice.”

“I see,” said Celestia, “and the townsponies really like Luna now. I find it strange but it obviously worked. Perhaps I will attend next time and see this for myself.”

“Oh yes!” said Luna, “I have a few things planned that will scare the horseapples out of them.”

Celestia seemed shocked at the language but let it pass. “Now then,” she said, “you two said that you took some 'souvenirs' from our old home. What were they exactly?”

“We can show you, your highness,” suggested Chase, “that way if there's anything there that you want, you could just take it.”

“Good idea, Chase,” said Rainbow Dash, “Come on Fluttershy, we can fly up to my place and back in a flash.”

“I can go,” said Chase.

“The doctor said no unnecessary flying,” replied Dash. “We got this.”

* * *
Without waiting further Rainbow Dash headed for the door followed by Fluttershy. It took them less than a minute to get to Dash's home. They went in.

“You don't think you're in any trouble, do you?” asked Fluttershy.

“No,” said Dash. “And why does everypony seem to think Celestia is going to do something nasty even if she does get angry about something? You'd have to do something pretty bad, don't you think?”

“I guess you're right,” admitted Fluttershy. “She didn't do anything to me for taking her pet and that was worse than taking a bunch of old things she left behind long ago.”

“Right,” said Rainbow Dash. “You take those saddlebags there. Those are the one's Chase was carrying. Mine are heavier after we repacked them at the river. We had to leave some of the stuff he found there. That hay brain brought a bunch of rocks and bricks along. I almost let him have it for that.”

“Why did he bring those?” asked Fluttershy.

“Well, they were pretty cool looking but the weight was killing him,” replied Dash. “He has some guts to haul that stuff as far as he did in his condition.”

“You like him, don't you,” said Fluttershy.

“Sure I like him,” replied Dash. “He's a real nice guy. We have a lot in common too; both of us being in charge of a weather team. He has a sense of humor, he's handsome and he treated me like...he respected me. I wish...never mind.”

“I think he likes you too,” said Fluttershy. “You'd make a nice couple.”

“Don't go there Fluttershy,” said Rainbow Dash, “we talked enough to know that isn't going to happen. He's going back to Manehatten and I'm staying here.” She sighed.

Fluttershy looked at her friend. “We'd better get back,” she said, “can't keep the princesses waiting. Do we have everything?”

“Yeah,” said Dash, “let's go.”

* * *
The two pegasi returned to the library and placed the packs on the floor. Chase swallowed hard. He knew that Rainbow Dash had brought the bags without going through them. He joined Dash and started unpacking the bags.

Twilight watched the two princesses nervously as the armor of Nightmare Moon was laid on the floor followed by the plates Rainbow Dash had found and the fireplace decorations.

“We had a table top and some bricks too,” said Rainbow Dash, “but we had to leave them by the river. They were just too heavy to carry. So I guess this is everything.”

“Not quite,” said Chase, “I had something I brought for Rainbow Dash and wanted it to be a surprise. She deserves something for all the trouble I put her through.” He carefully unrolled his blanket and picked up a small crystal object.

Luna giggled when she saw what it was. “Give it to her,” said the moon princess, “it's alright.”

“Thank you, Princess Luna,” said Chase. “I wanted to put this in a setting for you, and I still will if you'd like.” He gave the crystal to Rainbow Dash who looked at it closely.

“I know what this is,” said Dash, “it's one of the decorations from the wall in Princess Luna's room. It would make a nice pin.”

“Why don't you make it into a clip for in your mane?” suggested Rarity.

“Yeah,” agreed Dash holding it up to her mane, “that would look good.”

“What about these other things?” asked Twilight.

The sisters looked at each other. “Remember these?” asked Celestia gesturing to the plates. “Sort of an archaic design now but still pretty.”

“And those things with our marks on them,” said Luna, “they're from our fireplaces?”

“Yes, princess,” said Chase. “They were falling apart and easily removed.”

“I suppose the whole place is crumbling,” said Luna sadly. “Ah, well, you may keep them as far as I'm concerned.”

“Chase,” said Princess Celestia, “that armor, though technically my sister's, is another matter. What did you plan to do with it?”

“I have a small room in my apartment for my collection, your highness,” answered Chase. “I had planned to put it in a case with the rest of the things from this trip.”

“So it would be on display?” said Celestia. “I don't like the sound of that.”

“Then I won't take it with me, highness,” said Chase.

“What will we do with it sister?” asked Luna. “You may find it harder to destroy than you think. It may still have some enchantment on it. I don't want it anymore, I can't even wear it for that matter. He can have it, though I'd prefer it not be displayed to the general public.”

“I agree that it should not be put on display,” said Celestia. “Personally I think it should be sealed away in a vault in Canterlot. Having other ponies see these things won't do Princess Luna's reputation any good.”

“I suppose you're right, your highness,” said Rainbow Dash, “I don't collect things myself so I never thought of that. Old stuff like that is just junk to me.”

“You've never been to a museum?” asked Celestia.

“Not since I was on a school trip when I was a filly,” replied Dash. “That kind of stuff is for eg...it isn't for me.”

“I'm the one who wanted it, your highness,” said Chase, “I should have been more sensitive to your feelings. I'm sorry. All I saw was a historical find.”

“Well, it is that,” said Twilight Sparkle, “it isn't everyday you see something that old.”

To Twilight's embarrassment, both princesses laughed. The other ponies joined in.

“I'm sorry Princess Celestia, I didn't mean...” said Twilight.

“I know what you meant,” said Celestia, “but you lived in Canterlot Castle for years. You were surrounded by ancient things though you may not have known it. At any rate, I think we should hide these things away.”

“I am not proud of what happened to me, or of what Nightmare Moon tried to do,” said Luna, “but I think it may be a mistake to hide away the truth. There are ponies who know the truth and I'm not talking about just the ones in this room. Letting Chase keep it in his private collection is not at all the same as having it on display at the Canterlot Museum. Leaving the armor in the hooves of one of our citizens would show that the importance of such things is past and we would be denying nothing.”

Celestia looked at her sister with an expression of pride and surprise. “You speak wisely my sister,” she said. “I had not expected such a clever idea even from you. I was thinking only of you and how to make it easier for you to re-enter into the life of Equestria. I thought it best to simply not talk about the past and that it would be forgotten. I think your idea is better. Chase may keep the armor, as long as he is discreet in displaying it, for the rest of his life. After that it will be returned to the archives at Canterlot.”

“Thank you Princess Celestia, Princess Luna,” said Chase, “you may rely on me. What about the stuff we left by the river, your highness? It's just a table top and a few carved bricks but I hate to just leave them in the woods.”

“If you can retrieve them, you are welcome to them,” said Celestia.

“I'll see if I can get a couple of pegasi to fly out with me and pick them up,” said Rainbow Dash.

“I can help,” said Chase.

“Sure,” said Dash, “if we wait a few days like the doctor said to.”

“I feel a lot better now,” said Chase. “ All I really needed was a good meal and... ouch!”

Rainbow Dash had lifted Chase's injured wing. “And a few days rest like the doctor said,” she said, finishing his sentence.

“Ow, okay mom,” said Chase sarcastically.

The ponies and the princesses all laughed. “It seems you have somepony to look after you,” said Celestia. “We really should be going now. I have some things to do before bed and Luna must assume her duties of the night.” The princess of the sun rose and Luna and the rest of the ponies who were seated did likewise.

“I am sorry that our visit was so short,” said Luna. “And thank you, Rainbow Dash, and you too Rain Chaser, for bringing my necklace back.”

“Think nothing of it, your highness,” said Chase, “and thank you for letting me keep the things for my collection.”

“We may have to stop and see your collection the next time we're in Manehatten,” said Celestia. “I'd like to see what else is in it.”

“Anytime, your highness,” said Chase. “It isn't very big...yet.”

* * *
The ponies, princesses and Spike left the library and walked out into the warm evening. Most of the crowd had dispersed but there were a few younger ponies still there. One stepped forward, bowed and addressed Princess Luna.

“Hi Princess Luna,” said the little colt, “remember me?”

Luna looked at him and smiled. She walked towards him and laid down to get at eye level. “Of course I remember you, little pirate,” she said. “You are Pipsqueak, I believe.”

“I knew you'd remember me!” said Pipsqueak. “I told them you would.” He waved a hoof towards some of his friends.

“Have you been well?” asked Luna.

“Yes,” said Pipsqueak, “I've been going to school and I've made some friends since you were here last time. I wanted to know if you'd come back before Nightmare Night.”

“Perhaps,” said the princess, “but maybe, sometimes, you will see me when you sleep. I watch over the night and then I am never far away.”

“Really?” said Pip, “That would be nice but I like seeing you when I'm awake too.”

Luna smiled. “We'll see,” she said, “I do have duties to perform but perhaps I can get away sometime.”

“That would be great!” said Pipsqueak, “you really are the best princess ever.”

“Run along now,” said Luna, “I must return to Canterlot with my sister and I think it is getting close to your bedtime.”

“I could stay up all night,” said Pipsqueak.

Luna laughed. “Maybe someday. Goodbye for now little pirate.”

Luna rose and rejoined her sister.

“Goodbye Princess Luna, goodbye Princess Celestia,” said Pipsqueak.

They waved to him and he ran to his friends.

“Farewell, our faithful ponies,” said Celestia, “and thank you all once more.”

The ponies bowed as the princesses rose into the air. Their horns and eyes glowed and with a flash they disappeared.

“That went well,” said Rainbow Dash cheerfully. She turned and trotted into the library.

The others followed her in and found her getting a snack.

“You seem pleased with yourself,” said Twilight.

“I told you it would be okay,” said Dash. “Chase gets to keep his souvenirs, the princess got her necklace back, Ponyville got to see the princesses at work and I get a cool hair clip. Pretty good day if you ask me.”

Chase started to pack away his souvenirs. “I'll admit I was worried,” said Chase, “I'm glad things turned out the way they did. You were right Rainbow, the princesses are pretty cool.”

“I was counting on it,” replied Rainbow Dash. “Hey! Did you see Celestia's face when the crowd cheered for Luna? Priceless!” She laughed and was joined by Pinkie Pie.

“You shouldn't make fun of Princes Celestia,” said Twilight, “show some respect.”

“Oh, lighten up,” said Dash, “remember, it was you that helped Luna on Nightmare Night. Now Celestia knows how successful you were.”

“Yeah Twilight, “said Pinky Pie, “and Princess Celestia wasn't mad but she was really surprised. Dashie is right, it was funny. But I thought the funniest thing was her saying 'piffle'. Piffle, piffle, piffle, I'll have to remember that word.”

“I thought Princess Luna was the one who had the best time of all of us,” said Fluttershy. “It wasn't just the necklace either. It was good for her to hear those cheers and to be reminded that she has friends here. And did you see her with Pipsqueak? That was soo cute.”

“I noticed,” said Rarity, “and Luna certainly was enjoying herself. Didn't she look lovely in that necklace. Maybe she'll start wearing that instead of that old breast plate. I makes her look more ladylike.”

“You should have seen me in it,” said Dash, “I was looking good.”

“You wore Luna's necklace?” said Twilight. “You should be more careful, what if you'd have tried on something like the Alicorn Amulet? Who knows what's still laying around that old palace.”

“You're right there, Twi,” said Applejack. “You're not going to catch me pokin' around those old ruins.”

“I put it on Rainbow when she had her eyes closed,” said Chase. “The first time she saw it was when it was around her neck. I don't even know about amulets and that kind of stuff.”

“Yeah,” added Dash, “we're pegasi not unicorns.”

“How romantic!” said Rarity. “I didn't know pegasi were like that.” She looked at Chase and smiled.

Chase blushed and Rainbow Dash looked at Rarity with narrowed eyes. She was frustrated enough without a comment like that and she thought Chase was too. She didn't, however, quite know what to do about it. She walked over to Chase.

“Well this one is,” she said, “and a whole lot more.” She gave Chase a hug. “Play along,” she whispered in his ear.

Chase nodded imperceptibly. Rainbow Dash released Chase from her hug and kissed him. Chase was surprised but pleased.

“I'll play along with this all night,” he thought. He returned the kiss.

This was lasting a little longer than Rainbow Dash had planned and she gently pulled away. She looked at Rarity with a smug smile on her face. Her friends gaped at her with wide eyes, except for Pinky Pie.

“Looks like you two are very special someponies,” said Pinky Pie with a giggle.

“I wish,” said Rainbow Dash and Chase together. They looked at each other and, after a short awkward silence, began to laugh.

The laughter was infectious and the rest of the group joined in. Twilight rolled her eyes but laughed along with the rest. Tension relieved, the gathering went on for some time. The snacks were depleted and Twilight and Spike delved into their own pantry to provide a late supper. At last the party started to break up. Applejack was the first to say goodnight and Rarity followed. Pinky Pie left next as she had a party to plan for the next day.

Twilight and Spike found themselves alone with the three pegasi. Chase and Rainbow Dash both looked sleepy. It had been a long day and neither of them was completely recovered from their trip. That, combined with a big meal, caused the two adventurers to become lethargic. Rainbow Dash lay on the sofa with her head on a pillow and a contented smile on her face, her eyes half closed. Chase sat on the floor with his head and forelegs on an ottoman. Fluttershy pitched in and helped Twilight and Spike clean up.

“You two can spend the night here, if you'd like,” said Twilight. “Chase can take the couch and Rainbow Dash can have the spare bed.”

Rainbow Dash roused herself and yawned. “Thanks Twilight,” she said, “but I think I want to sleep in my own bed tonight.”

“Oh no,” said Chase, “I forgot to get a room at the hotel. I hope they have one.”

“I have a spare room,” offered Dash, “you can stay there if you can fly up without hurting yourself.”

“Thanks,” said Chase, “but won't ponies ..um talk? You know what I mean.”

“We already spent a night alone together,” said Dash with a shrug. “If they talk, they talk. At least you'll get to sleep on a cloud bed.”

“Sold!” said Chase, “I haven't slept on a cloud bed since last year. I rent an apartment and the landlord won't allow them; says the moisture warps the floor.”

“Do you want some help with your bags?” asked Fluttershy.

“Sure,” said Dash, “thanks.”

“We'll have to repack them then. I put all the stuff in mine,” said Chase, “I really thought I'd stay in the hotel.”

“Why not just leave it here?” said Twilight. “You can move it tomorrow or wait until you leave for Manehatten. You two still look exhausted.”

Dash yawned again. “Thanks Twilight, you're a real pal. Come on, Chase, we'd better go while I can still find my way home.”

* * *
The final three guests left and headed for their beds. Twilight and Spike were left alone and headed upstairs themselves.

“Twilight?” said Spike, “What do you think of Rainbow Dash and Chase? Together, I mean. They seem to really like each other but...I don't know if they're like, in love?”

Twilight giggled. “I'm trying to figure that out myself,” she said. “If you ask me, they're both trying hard not to fall in love.”

“I don't get it,” said Spike. “Why would they do that?”

“They live in different towns for one thing,” said Twilight. “Chase is leaving soon and I doubt if Rainbow Dash wants to leave. Chase is from the city so he probably doesn't want to move here either. Then there's what they have in common; both run a weather team. Can you imagine Rainbow Dash going somewhere where she wouldn't be number one?”

Spike laughed. “No, well, maybe the Wonderbolts.”

“Exactly,” said Twilight, “and Chase seems to be the same way. Dash dreams of being on the Wonderbolts. If she moved to Manehatten and started a family, she'd have to give that up.”

“Oh, that isn't happening,” agreed Spike. “That's kinda sad, don't you think?”

“Yeah,” said Twilight, “life sure is complicated sometimes.”

Chapter 10
Rainbow Dash arrived at her home and entered followed by her guest. “Come on,” said Dash as she ascended some stairs. Chase followed her up and they entered a room at the top. Dash turned on the light.

“Nice,” said Chase.

“Thanks,” replied Dash, “this is my room.”

“Oh,” said Chase.

Dash smiled. “Don't get any ideas, I'm just getting you a blanket.” She got a neatly folded blanket from a shelf.

“Oh, um, right,” replied Chase.

“Your room is this way,” said Dash. “It's about the same. I think you'll like it.” She walked to a second doorway and jumped across a small gap into another part of the house.

“Here we are,” said Dash as she flicked on another light. “You can sleep here.”

“Looks comfortable,” said Chase, “much better than a blanket on a stone floor.”

Dash laughed. “Yeah,” said Dash, “just yell if you need anything. I'll probably be up early. There's little weather work to do tomorrow. I'll take the Everfree patrol and go get the rest of your stuff. Kitchen is on the other side of the office. You can help yourself.”

“Thanks,” said Chase. “Rainbow, can we talk for a minute?”

“I guess,” replied Dash.

“I really like you and I think you like me too,” said Chase. “But I'd like to know one thing; why did you kiss me when we were at Twilight's place?”

“Well,” began Dash, “Rarity kind of embarrassed us and I got a little mad. I didn't want to start an argument but I didn't want to just take it either. I thought it would shut her up.”

“Interesting tactic,” said Chase bitterly.

“She couldn't attack if I took away her weapons,”said Dash. “Chase? I'm sorry. I shouldn't have led you on like that.”

“It's okay,” said Chase, “I enjoyed it. I thought it was something like that. Really stinks that we can't let things go further. I'm going to miss you when I leave.”

“I know what you mean,” said Dash. “but one of us would have to give up on everything we want and everything we have if we want to be together. I just can't and I don't think you can either.”

“No, I can't,” said Chase. “And I'm afraid if we get much closer I would anyway.”

“Exactly!” said Dash. “Arrrgh! Feathers! I hate this!”

“Do you want me to leave?” asked Chase. “I could still get a room at the hotel.”

“It's up to you,” said Dash with a sigh, “I'm tired and I want to sleep. If I can trust you not to wander into my room, then stay.”

“I think I can do that,” said Chase with a smile. “at least for tonight. Prolonged exposure to you might make it too difficult for more.”

“I'll take that as a compliment,” said Dash dryly. “I'm going to bed. My bed. You stay here.”

“Okay,” said Chase, “but if you're going to tease me, you have to expect me to tease back.”

“Goodnight, Chase,” said Dash. She headed for the door. “If it means anything to you, I feel the same way you do. That kiss in the library was the best idea I've ever had. It just can't go further.”

“I know,” said Chase, “goodnight Rainbow.”

Part 3

Chapter 11

Rainbow Dash returned to her room and went to bed. She lay there looking out the window at the moon and thinking. The thinking made her even more tired so she rolled over and pulled a bit of cloud over her eyes. Soon she managed to drift off to sleep.

Chase also was awake for a while. He debated with himself about what to do. On one hoof, he thought, if he just gave her a little nudge, she'd probably cave in to his advances. But then what? She didn't want to give up on her career and dreams and go with him. If she did, she'd end up hating him for it later. “I just might have a hard time keeping my job then,” he thought with grim humor. “Ponyville is nice but I'd go nuts if I moved here. It's too slow and boring. I have to be good to her. Besides being the right thing to do, she has some scary powerful friends. Not including the Princesses, that purple unicorn seems to be their leader or something. She'd probably turn my wings into anvils if hurt Rainbow. There's only one way for us to be together,” he thought. “I'll talk to her about it tomorrow.”

Chapter 12
The next morning dawned clear and bright. Rainbow Dash rose somewhat later than the sun and was less clear and bright. She went outside and stuck her head into a small cloud and washed her face. She flew around her cloud home and checked the sky. Only a few stray clouds. That was good since the crews needed a little break. She returned to her home and got a little breakfast from the kitchen. She ate in her office, getting assignments ready for the weather team. There was a knock at the door.

Rainbow Dash answered the door to find the weather team waiting on her porch. She walked out and addressed them. After giving Thunderlane and Flitter the easy job of clearing the few clouds, she asked for two volunteers to go on Everfree patrol and pick up Chase's souvenirs. A few pegasi raised a hoof and she selected Slipstream and Silverspeed to accompany her. She let the rest of the team off until she returned with the morning patrol and gave them the job of afternoon patrol. Business taken care of, she addressed her team.

“I wanted to thank you for the job you did on that storm,” she said, “and for searching for us. I really appreciate it and I'm sorry I wasn't here to help out. For those who might not know, Rain Chaser is a fellow weather pony from Manehatten. He runs the team there and I'm sure you all impressed him with your skills. Our morning patrol is going to retrieve some things from Everfree that we had to leave behind. The two ponies going with me are going to need saddlebags so go get them and come back here when you're ready. You all know what to do so get going and we'll see you back here after lunch. Looks like it will be a pretty easy day.”

At that moment Chase appeared in the doorway. “Before you go, I'd like to thank you too,” he said. “Thunderlane and Flitter especially for finding us but the rest of you for the effort you made with the storm and search. My own team couldn't have done better. Thank you all.”

Rainbow Dash beamed with pride while the weather team shrugged off the praise with 'no problem' and 'just doing our job' and other comments of the sort. She went past Chase and into her home to get her bags. The weather team lifted off and went to do their assignments. Except for Thunderlane.

“Excuse me, Rain Chaser,” said Thunderlane, “can we talk a minute?”

“Sure,” replied Chase, “what's on your mind?”

“You spent last night here, didn't you?” said Thunderlane. “I know it's none of my business and I'm not being jealous or anything like that. There's another mare I'm interested in. I'm just sort of, you know, concerned about my boss. What's going on between you two?”

“Well, it isn't any of your business but I'll tell you anyway,” replied Chase. “We like each other, a lot, but we also know it probably won't work out between us. We kissed once but that's it. Nothing else. Unfortunately. That's all I'm going to say for now except that I won't do anything to hurt her.”

Thunderlane smiled. “That's good enough for me,” he said. “You seem like a stand up guy.” He laughed. “I wouldn't have said anything except that Cloudchaser, Flitter and a few other ladies were talking and it got me thinking.”

“No sweat,” said Chase with a grin, “I understand. See you later, I need to get some breakfast.”

“Yeah, I have to get going too. See ya,” said Thunderlane as he took off.

* * *
Chase went back inside and almost bumped into Rainbow Dash as she was heading for the door.
“Oops!” said Chase, “sorry.”

“It's okay,” said Dash, “I wasn't watching where I was going. So what are you going to do today?”

“I thought I'd go get your crystal put in a setting for you,” said Chase. “There is a jeweler in town, isn't there?”

“Yes, there is,” replied Rainbow Dash, “we may not be Manehatten but we're not complete rubes either.”

“Good,” said Chase laughing, “I'll go pick up the crystal at the library and get on it. Do you have any preferences?”

“I'm sure you'll do a good job,” said Rainbow Dash. “If you need advice either listen to the jeweler, he is good by the way, or go see Rarity. Twilight or Spike can help you find both of them.”

“Sounds good,” said Chase. He looked at Rainbow Dash. She was smiling as she adjusted her bags. If she felt any conflict, it was well hidden. “Rainbow? I was thinking last night and I came up with a solution to our problem. I want you to think about it so don't give me an answer right now. What if we both moved to Cloudsdale? We could easily get jobs there. You'd be close to the Wonderbolts, if that's what you really want. Neither of us would be under the other at work. I know it isn't a perfect solution but if we really want to keep seeing each other, it might work. Just think about it, okay?”

Rainbow Dash was taken aback by the suggestion. It was not something she had considered. Chase was actually offering to quit his job and move just to be with her? She was shocked and didn't know what to say. A sad frown came to her face but as she thought about Chase's idea a wild hope arose. “I'll think about it, Chase,” said Rainbow Dash. “I'm going to do a little warm up exercise, if you want to watch.”

Chase smiled. “I'd like that,” he said.

Dash smiled back, adjusted her goggles and flew out the door. She flew up and gained a little altitude and started doing a few simple aerobatics. Chase watched her. He enjoyed watching her fly but wasn't really impressed by her tricks. Suddenly Rainbow Dash dove and gained speed. Pulling up she began an impromptu show. It was time for some real flying. She started doing rolls and spins, flips and corkscrews, all at an incredible speed. She threw in a few tricks of her own making. At last, as she saw the two weather ponies who were to accompany her approaching, she landed by Chase.

“What do ya think?” she asked Chase, “pretty awesome huh.”

“Wow,” said Chase, “I thought Twilight was just being nice because you're her friend when she said you were the best but I've never seen better. To think I thought I could show you some tricks. You'd fly circles around me.”

Rainbow Dash laughed. “Don't take it too hard, I fly circles around everypony.”

“Celestia's feathers but you're fast,” continued Chase. “No pony in Manehatten is that fast, stallions included. Hey! You're not even breathing hard.”

“Wait until you see me when my feathers grow back,” said Dash fluttering her wings. A feather came loose and floated down.

Chase snatched it up and stuck it in his mane. “Another souvenir,” he said, “a feather from the fastest pegasus ever.”

Rainbow Dash blushed. At that moment Slipstream and Silverspeed landed beside her.

“We're ready if you've finished showing off,” said Slipstream.

“”Yeah, yeah,” said Dash, “lets go. See you later Chase.”

“See you Rainbow,” replied Chase, “be careful.”

* * *
The patrol took off and headed towards the Everfree Forest. Chase went back inside and found something to eat. After a light breakfast he wandered around Rainbow Dash's office looking at the piles of papers and charts. To his surprise, the piles of paper made some sense. Weather charts were organized by date and type of weather. Most had notes on them regarding what happened and how accurate the predictions had been. Personnel files were all together and there was a record of which pony performed what duty and when. He spotted a folder labeled Winter Wrap Up. Wondering what it contained, he opened it. On top of the rest of papers was a single sheet with the words: 'DON'T LET DERPY FETCH THE BIRDS!!!' in large red letters. Chase raised an eyebrow and placed the folder back where he had found it.

Chapter 13

Chase decided it was time to visit Twilight Sparkle and pick up the crystal star. He left Dash's cloud home and floated down to the library. He was about to knock when he heard somepony call his name. He turned to find Pinky Pie a few inches from his nose.

“Hi Rain Chaser!” she said, “Have you seen Rainbow Dash?”

“Hello Pinky Pie,” said Chase wondering where she had come from, “she just left on a patrol. She should be back around lunch time.”

“Great!,” said Pinky, “don't forget the party this afternoon. Go out to Sweet Apple Acres at four o'clock. We'll have a party, then supper, then more party.”

“We'll be there,” said Chase smiling, “I'm going to see Twilight Sparkle and take Rainbow's gift to the jewelers.”

“Ooooh I can't wait to see it,” said Pinky, “Come on, I'm going to see Twilight too.”

Pinky jumped in front of Chase and knocked on Twilight's door. Twilight answered and invited them in.

“Pinky, Chase, come in,” said Twilight, “Spike is just making tea, would you like some?”

“Sure!” said Pinky Pie, “got any donuts to go with it?”

“You know I do,” said Twilight, “you sold them to me less than an hour ago.”

“And there's still some left?” said Pinky in surprise.

“How about you Chase?” asked Twilight.

“No Thanks, Twilight,” aid Chase, “I just stopped by to get Rainbow's gift. I'm on my way to the jewelers right now.”

“Oh, I put your bags over here,” said Twilight, pointing to an out of the way corner.

“I won't be a minute,” said Chase, “do you think you could show me the way? Or maybe the way to Rarity's house. Rainbow said she's the local fashion expert. I can wait until you have your tea.”

“Sure,” said Twilight, “I'd be glad to.”

“Thanks,” said Chase, “you all have been so helpful since I've been here. You've really helped make this a great vacation.”

“Any friend of Dashie is a friend of ours,” said Pinky.

“That obvious huh?” said Chase.

“Welll, yes,” said Twilight. “I was a little worried about you two getting along but you two go together like...”

“Donuts and tea,” interrupted Pinky as Spike brought in a tray.

“I was going to say bread and honey,” said Twilight, “but that works too.”

Chase laughed and went to his bags. It didn't take him long to find the crystal which he placed in the small satchel around his neck. He went and sat with Spike and the two mares and listened to Pinky Pie chatter. He found it amusing but hard to follow. Pinky Pie finished first and excused herself.

“I have to go hand out some more invitations,” said Pinky, “See you this afternoon!”

She left leaving Chase feeling a bit breathless even though he had talked little. “Is she always like that?” he asked.

“That was mild,” said Twilight, “you should see her when she's really wound up.”

“She is a funny pony,” said Chase, “and I don't mean that in a bad way. You can't help but smile around her.”

“Element of Laughter,” said Spike with a laugh.

“Yeah,” agreed Chase.

“Rainbow Dash told you about us, didn't she?” said Twilight Sparkle.

“Yes,” admitted Chase, “but I made a few guesses on my own. Rainbow obviously knew way to much about that old palace. Even a real scholar wouldn't know some of what she told me and she doesn't strike me as the studious type. She told me the whole tale about how you defeated Nightmare Moon, after I asked her.”

“It's alright,” said Twilight. “There's a window in Canterlot that depicts the battle. It isn't really a secret but we don't talk about it much either. Let's go see Rarity. She'd be insulted if she doesn't get in on this.”

* * *
Twilight led Chase and Spike towards Rarity's boutique. They arrived to find Rarity outside tidying up around her front door. She heard them approach and turned to greet them.

“Good morning Twilight, Spikey Wikey,” said Rarity, “and hello Chase. You're feeling better I hope.”

“Much better, thank you,” replied Chase, “I'm going to the jewelers to get Rainbow's crystal done and I could really use your help.”

“ Of course!” said Rarity, “I'd love to help. I did a few sketches last night, just a few ideas. May I see it again?”

“Sure,” said Chase. He got out the crystal and gave it to Rarity.

Rarity levitated the star in front of her, examining it critically. “Did you know this isn't glass?” she said.

“Then what is it?” asked Chase.

“Diamonds,” said the white unicorn. “Are you sure you want to give it to Rainbow Dash? I mean it could be taken as a 'special' gift.”

“Sure I want to give it to her,” said Chase, “and it's okay because she is special.”

“That's not what I meant,” said Rarity, “I mean that diamonds are usually only given to a pegasus or an earth pony as a sign of affection on a very special day. Unicorns would give a ring, of course.”

“Oh,” said Chase, “well, Hearts and Hooves Day isn't for months yet so I'll just give it to her now.”

Rarity planted a hoof just below her horn. “Let's try this again,” she said in frustration. “When a stallion loves a mare and wants to show he's committed to their relationship, he gives her a diamond.”

“Well, I'd like us to be committed to a relationship but I don't know if she does,” said Chase. “I think she does...yeah, I may as well give it to her. I know she'd like it.”

Rarity's eye twitched. “Diamonds are given to a mare by a stallion when he...wants...to...marry...her.”

“Oooooh,” said Chase, “that's different.”

“Finally, he gets it,” said Rarity. “Yes, it is different. Are you going to propose to Rainbow Dash?”

“No,” said Chase with a shake of his head, “Sure, I like her but we've only known each other for a couple of days.” He took the crystal back and stood there staring at it.

“Sorry Chase,” said Rarity, “but I really thought you should know.”

“Yeah, thanks,” said Chase, “you did the right thing. I wouldn't want her to get the wrong idea. To bad this isn't just a plain old crystal. Rainbow was right about Princess Luna's sense of humor.”

“Who says it isn't a plain old crystal?” asked Twilight Sparkle.

“I do,” said Rarity, “and I'm quite sure about it. You can show it to the jeweler but I'm sure he'll say the same thing.”

“I'm sure he would,” said Twilight, “but Rainbow Dash isn't a jeweler, is she?”

“Of course not,” said Rarity, “I don't think she could tell the difference between quartz and a quart of milk.”

“Hey!” said Chase, “That's pretty harsh!”

“Sorry,” said Rarity, “I guess I did exaggerate a little.”

“But not by much,” said Twilight, “the point is that right now Rainbow Dash thinks that it's just a crystal. Why not let her continue to think that's all it is?”

“Twilight,” said Spike, “you're a genius.” He started to laugh.

“You won't tell her?” said Chase.

“Of course not dear,” said Rarity, “neither of us are the Element of Honesty.”

“So we don't tell Applejack?” said Spike.

“We don't tell anypony,” said Twilight, “at least not until Chase does.”

“Are you sure she won't be able to tell?” asked Chase.

“If she thinks it's a crystal and we say it's a crystal, then it's a crystal,” said Twilight. “Technically, diamonds are crystals so we won't be lying.”

“I hope you do propose to her someday,” said Rarity, “just so I can see the look on her face when you tell her.”

“Okay, lets do this,” said Chase. “Oh my gosh! I just thought of something. The wall!”

“Wall?” said Spike, “What wall?”

“The wall where this came from!” said Chase in a hushed tone, “It was covered with these things! Big ones, little ones..and the other walls were the same! It's why I thought they were just crystals or cut glass. Princess Luna had diamond covered walls!”

“Right!” said Rarity, “anypony up for a trip through the Everfree Forest?”

“I'll go!” said Spike.

“No you won't, either of you,” said Twilight. “We'll just keep this our little secret for now. If word gets out about this everypony will be heading out to loot the palace.”

“Yeah,” said Chase, “you're right.”

“I will have to talk to Luna about this,” said Twilight. “Now that that's settled, lets get to the jewelers.”

“Wait a minute Twilight,” said Rarity, “come inside. I want touch up my sketches. It will help when we get to the jewelers.”

They entered her shop and went to one of Rarity's tables. “Help me a moment, Twilight,” said Rarity. “Spike, why don't you show Chase around the shop while we do this? Chase, the crystal please. Twilight, use your magic to hold it up for me.”

Spike took Chase and led him around the various displays while Twilight and Rarity worked.

“What is it?” asked Twilight in a low voice. “What are you up to?”

“Just a little information dear,” whispered Rarity. “What do you know about Dashie and Chase?”

“I don't know much,” said Twilight, “but they did spend last night at her place.”

“No!” Rarity hissed, “this must be serious.” Rarity sketched wildly while they talked.

“After you left last night Rainbow Dash invited him to stay in her spare room,” said Twilight, “and Chase was concerned about causing gossip.”

“Concerned about her reputation?” said Rarity. “He sounds like he cares. There's going to be gossip anyway, everypony sees how they are around each other.”

“I'm afraid so,”said Twilight, “even Spike noticed. It's like I told him though, I think that they're trying not to fall for each other.”

“I'm going to have a talk with that filly,” said Rarity, a smile crept across her face.

“Rarity, I don't...” began Twilight but Rarity interrupted her.

“All done,” announced Rarity, “Chase, what do you think of these? They're a little rough but you should get the idea.”

Rarity had made several drawings of the crystal star in various settings. Some were diamond shaped, another was a circle, another had offset horizontal bars and there was one with small hearts set between the star points.

“They are all really cool,” said Chase. “Which one do you think she'd like?”

“I think she'll like any of them,” said Rarity, “as long as it's you giving it to her.”

Twilight Sparkle rolled her eyes but said nothing.

“Um, yeah, wow, you think so?” stammered Chase. “Ah, but straight answer, which one would she like? I like the one with the bars.”

“That would be a good choice,” said Rarity, “picture her wearing it in her hair, just in front of her ear. I had an idea to make the bars two tone. A silver setting that extends into the bars along the edge and then gold in the middle of the bars. It would also look nice behind her ear.”

“That would look beautiful,” said Chase. “How much will it cost?”

“Let's go find out,” said Rarity with a smile.

* * *
They left the boutique and headed to the jewelry shop. They walked in to find the jeweler at his work bench behind the counter. He looked up as they entered.

“Ms. Rarity,” he said, “it's good to see you again. What can I do for you this fine day?” He was always glad to see Rarity. It either meant she was buying something or bringing him her excess gems to sell.

“Hello, Mr. Karat,” said Rarity, “I've brought you a customer. Rain Chaser here needs you to make a hair clip out of this.” She levitated the star out of Chase's bag and onto the counter.

Karat examined the diamonds closely. “Let me give this a quick polish,” he said. He took the the star to his bench and quickly ran it over the polishing wheel.

He held it up to the light and looked at it with his magnifiers. “These are really lovely,” he said, “and the silver is high quality too. Looks old. You wouldn't want to sell it, would you?”

“No,” said Chase, “it's to be a gift.”

Karat nodded. “So what did you have in mind?”

Rarity brought out her design and showed it to Karat, explaining her idea. Karat suggested a few modifications to make it more practical and asked what sort of pony it was for.

“Rainbow Dash,” answered Chase, “she helped me out so I'm giving her this to show my gratitude.”

Karat seemed a little shocked by this. “You're very generous, sir,” he said, “the reason I asked is because I have to use special clips for pegasi to make sure it doesn't come off while in flight. I'd better use the strongest one for her.”

There were a few other options to consider and Rarity helped Chase decide. In the end, it cost less than Chase had feared. Karat could rework the existing silver and there was actually only a little gold involved in the rest of the setting since he was only going to plate it rather than use solid precious metal.

“When will it be ready?” asked Chase.

“I can get it done by the day after tomorrow,” replied Karat. “I don't have a lot of orders ahead of you.”

“That's the day I have to return to Manehatten,” said Chase. “but I guess it will have to do. I'll pay ahead and she can pick it up if I have to leave before it's done.”

“Of course, sir,” said Karat. “I'll see if, perhaps, I can get it done late tomorrow afternoon. I can't promise anything, but I'll try.”

“That would be great,” said Chase, “I'll check back tomorrow. I'll go check the train schedule and see when the train leaves.”

“Mr. Karat,” said Rarity, “Rainbow Dash doesn't know that this is made of diamonds and we'd like to keep it that way.”

“Alright,” said Karat, “but why? This will be a very valuable piece when it's done, certainly suitable for an engagement gift.”

“Exactly,” said Rarity, “but it isn't an engagement gift. It's better if she doesn't know for now.”

Karat smiled. “I get it,” he said, “I hope no pony who knows gems tells her. She won't hear it from me though, I assure you.”

“Thanks,” said Chase, “we'll see you tomorrow then.”

* * *
They took their leave of Karat and went to the train station. The train for Manehatten was due to leave at ten in the morning. Chase purchased a ticket.

“Too bad I have all this stuff to take back,” said Chase, “otherwise I could fly and leave when I want. I hope Karat can get the clip done by then.”

“I should be getting back to my shop,” said Rarity, “I have work to do too.”

“Thank you for your help, Rarity,” said Chase, “I'm sure Rainbow will love my gift.”

“I'm sure she will,” said Rarity, “bye for now.”

Rarity trotted back towards her shop. It was going to be sometime before Rainbow Dash was due back so Twilight and Spike took Chase on a tour of Ponyville. Ponyville not being very large, it was a short tour. They continued out of town and ended up at Fluttershy's cottage.

Chase was amazed by all the animals running around. He also found it strange that Fluttershy preferred living on the ground. Sure, he lived in a building too but on the twentieth floor.
Twilight was the first to spot the yellow pegasus. She was near the chicken pen holding a feed bucket.

“Hi Fluttershy,” called Twilight, “I was just showing Chase around and thought I'd bring him out here.”

Fluttershy flew over and landed in front of Twilight. “Hi Twilight, Spike. Hello Chase, Where's Rainbow Dash?” she asked.

“Hello, Fluttershy,” replied Chase, “Rainbow's out with a patrol and they're going to pick up the things I had to leave behind. She said they'd be back by lunch time.”

“I hope that works out better this time,” said Fluttershy.

Chase laughed. “Me too,” he said, “I don't want to go out searching for her. This is quite a place you have here. Are you the local zookeeper?”

Fluttershy blushed. “Not exactly,” she said, “I just like taking care of the animals. It's my special talent.”

“She connects with them on a different level,” explained Twilight. “Nopony understands critters better than Fluttershy.”

Fluttershy blushed even more. “Really,” said Fluttershy quietly, “it's just my gift.”

“Well you should be proud of it,” said Rain Chaser. “I'm really good at cloud busting myself.”

“Yes, well, if you think so,” said Fluttershy. “I just finished with their feeding and was getting ready to go help Pinky Pie get ready for the party.”

“Sure,” said Twilight, “I wanted to lend a hoof too. Do you think you could give Chase a quick tour first?”

“Sure!” said Fluttershy brightly, “come with me.”

Fluttershy led Chase around the various pens, nests and dens near her cottage. He found the tour interesting as he was unused to being around so much wildlife. He also found it odd that Fluttershy lived on the ground and told her so.

“Oh, I love my cottage,” replied Fluttershy. “I grew up in Cloudsdale but I really like it better down here. All the pegasi in Ponyville live in houses, except for Rainbow Dash. She loves the sky. I think she'd fly in her sleep if she could.”

“I agree,” said Chase, “but if I could fly like that I might feel the same way.”

“Maybe so,” said Fluttershy. “Are you ready to go to Sweet Apple Acres yet?”

“We should,” said Twilight, “especially if Chase wants to get back in time to meet Rainbow Dash.”

“Could you give me a ride Twilight?” asked Spike. “I've been following you around all morning.”

“You can ride on me,” offered Chase, “there's nothing wrong with my legs. Let's go, I don't want to be late when Rainbow gets back.”

Spike hopped on Chase's back and they fell in behind Fluttershy and Twilight Sparkle. As they walked along the two mares quietly conversed.

“He seems anxious to see her again,” said Twilight.

“Yes,” agreed Fluttershy, “and did you notice that he always calls her Rainbow? Nopony else does.”

“Yeah,” said Twilight, “I wonder how she feels about that.”

“Knowing Rainbow Dash,” said Fluttershy, “he would find out pretty quick if she didn't like it.”

Twilight giggled. “I suppose so. Wait until you see that crystal he found. We just were at the jewelers and he had it put in a setting. Rarity did the initial design.”

“When will it be ready?” asked Fluttershy, “I can't wait to see it.”

“Probably the day after tomorrow,” said Twilight, “Chase might not even get to see her wear it since he has to leave that day.”

“So he's really going back to Manehatten?” said Fluttershy.

“It looks that way,” said Twilight.

“And Rainbow Dash is staying here?”

“As far as I know,” said Twilight.

“That's too bad,” said Fluttershy. “I don't mean that Dashie isn't leaving, I mean that, you know, they...”

“I got it, Fluttershy,” said Twilight. “and I know what you're thinking.”

“You do?” said Fluttershy in a surprised tone. “Do you have super mind reading powers?”

Twilight laughed. “No. I mean that I've been thinking the same thing.”

A few paces back Spike was talking to Chase. “Seems like you really like Rainbow Dash,” he said.

“Well, yeah, I do,” said Chase.

“I could tell,” said Spike wisely. “I know what it's like. Don't tell her but I kinda have a crush on Rarity.”

“Really?” said Chase as he tried to keep a straight face. “She certainly is lovely.”

“Yeah,” said Spike dreamily. “At least you and Rainbow Dash have a lot in common.”

“A little too much in common,” muttered Chase.

“What do you mean?” asked Spike.

“We both have the same job for one thing,” said Chase, “and neither of us wants to step down and take orders from the other. Then there's Rainbow's dream of becoming a Wonderbolt. She doesn't want to give up on that and I don't want her to either. We both like where we're living and don't want to move.”

“Wow,” exclaimed Spike, “that's what Twilight said. So what are you going to do?”

“I'm not sure,” said Chase. “Even if we do like each other, we've only known each other for a few days. We have to slow down and think about this and get to know each other better. I guess.”

“And I thought I had problems,” said Spike. “Don't worry, if you two are meant to be together, it'll all work out.”

“You really think so?” asked Chase.

“How should I know?” said Spike. “I was just trying to give you some hope. Ya gotta have hope, right?”

Chase frowned. “Yeah, right,” he said. 'Note to self,' he thought, 'don't ask a dragon for advice.'

* * *
The ponies and one dragon made their way to Sweet Apple Acres. They walked through the well tended orchard and soon came upon the buildings that made up the homestead. No pony could be seen. As they drew closer, sounds and voices could be heard coming from the barn.

“Little more, Big Mac,” said Applejack. “That's good. Right there. Okay, Pinkie, nail 'er up!”

Twilight, Fluttershy, Chase and Spike entered the barn. The floor was mostly clear except for make shift tables along one side some boxes of decorations and other party supplies sitting here and there. Applejack and Big Mac were hoisting banners to the rafters above while Pinkie Pie, suspended by balloons, anchored them in place.

Pinkie had the hammer in her mouth and held the nail with both hooves. She swung her head and hit the nail with the hammer. Unfortunately, her head hit the rafter with every swing. Pinkie seemed to be oblivious to this as she hammered away.

“Looks like we're needed here,” said Twilight to nopony in particular.

“Yes,” said Fluttershy, “I'd better get up there.” She took off and flew up to Pinkie pie.

“Would you like me to do anything?” asked Chase.

“You have to go meet Rainbow Dash pretty soon,” said Twilight. “Besides, this party is partially for you. You are our guest. We're not going to put you to work.”

“That's right,” said Applejack as she joined them, “it just wouldn't be proper. So what do you think of the farm, Chase?”

“I've never been to one before,” said Chase. “It sure is big, and well tended, that's for sure. Quiet, too. I'm definitely not used to that.”

“You just wait,” replied Applejack, “it'll liven up. There'll be quite a herd here tonight.”

Big Macintosh walked over to the group. “Howdy, you must be Chase, “he said, “the pony my sister's been talkin' about.”

“That's right,” replied Chase, he had to look up to look him in the eye, “pleased to meet you. Mr....?”

Big Macintosh laughed. “You don't have to call me mister. Most ponies call me Big Mac but my real name is Big Macintosh.”

“He's my brother,” said Applejack, “the biggest, strongest pony in these parts.”

“I can believe it,” said Chase.

Fluttershy towed Pinkie Pie down near the floor. “Shouldn't you be going to meet Rainbow Dash?” said Pinky. “Besides, you shouldn't be seeing the party place until we're done or it won't be a surprise.”

“Alright,” said Chase, “and I guess it is almost lunch time. I think I can find my way back. I'll see you all this afternoon. Thanks again for the help this morning,Twilight.”

“No trouble at all,” replied Twilight. “See you later Chase.”

Chapter 14

Chase left Sweet Apple Acres and headed back to Ponyville. He was about halfway there when he decided to test out his wing. He lifted off and flew towards Rainbow Dash's home. He flew gingerly at first and then put on more speed. He winced and slowed down again.

“I'd better take it easy,” he thought. “I have to be at work in a few days.”

Despite his injury Chase found it easier to reach Dash's home than he had the night before. She had not returned so he laid down in the sun on her front porch and dozed. His nap was interrupted by a cheery but sarcastic voice.

“Sleeping? While I'm out working my wings off?” said the voice. “I ought to go dump that junk in the reservoir.”

Other voices laughed. Chase raised his head and looked around to find three pegasi mares laughing as they hovered in front of him. Rainbow Dash, Slipstream and Silverspeed had returned from their patrol.

“At least you get to fly,” he said groggily, “I've been walking all morning.”

“I might just have something for that,” said Rainbow Dash. “We stopped by Zecora's place on the way back and picked up some ointment that should help. I invited her to the party too, so you'll get a chance to meet her.”

Chase wasn't sure about using some zebra's 'home remedy'. “Is it safe?” he asked.

“Of course!” said Rainbow Dash, “if you don't believe me, just check out my eye.”

Rainbow hovered closer and Chase looked at her black eye. She had removed the bandage. He immediately noticed the change. Before it had been swollen and discolored but now it was nearly normal with only a slight discoloration remaining.

“Okay,” said Chase, “you can put it on me. Your eye looks a whole lot better. It doesn't help feathers grow back, does it?”

Dash laughed. “I don't think so. Zecora said; 'smear it on, do as I say and it will take the bruise away'. She didn't say anything about feathers. Maybe I should go back and ask if her if she has anything for that.”

“You'll see her this afternoon,” said Slipstream, “just ask her then.”

“Yeah,” said Dash, “that's true. Hold still Chase.” She opened the ointment and smeared some on Chase's injured wing. “I'm going to dab a little on a few of these other bruises too. There, that should make you feel better. Hey, Silverspeed, I've got a few dings on my head and neck. Put a little on them, will ya.”

“Sure,” replied Silverspeed. “Wow, you really got nailed all right. How big were those hailstones?”

“Bigger than a bit coin, smaller than a tennis ball,” said Chase. “One of them cracked the lens on my goggles. Any place in town sell those?”

“No,” said Slipstream, “we have to get ours from Cloudsdale. When one of us goes there they usually have to pick up a lot of stuff for us pegasi.”

“Oh,well,” said Chase, “I can pick up a pair when I get home. I'm taking the train anyway so I won't need them right away.”

“Must be nice to live in a big city where you can get anything,” said Silverspeed.

“Oh sure,” said Chase, “there's all kinds of shops, restaurants and being a port city we get first pick from any foreign land. And there's always something going on. Concerts, theaters, you name it.”

“Sounds great,” said Slipstream, “got any openings on your team?”

“Maybe,” said Chase, “like I told Rainbow Dash, I'm always on the lookout for a good weather pony. Go ahead and put in an application if you want.”

“Trying to steal my ponies, Chase?” said Rainbow Dash. “That's pretty low.” Her voice was serious now, tinged with anger.

“Hey, she asked and I wasn't going to lie to her,” said Chase flatly. “Any pegasi can apply for a transfer, you know that. Maybe I can get one of my ponies to transfer out here in exchange. One of them might like to live in Ponyville. Besides, you didn't seem to have any qualms about offering me a job first.”

Rainbow Dash scowled at him. He was being logical which, not being one of her strong points, she abhorred. She thought it best to get out of this conversation quickly. “You offered me a job too,” said Rainbow Dash. “Slipstream, if you want this, I have the paperwork and you'll get a good recommendation from me. Just think about it, okay?”

“Sure Rainbow Dash,” said Slipstream, “I will. I'll talk to you in a few days, either way I decide.”

“Fair enough,” said Dash, “and you,” she said addressing Chase, “don't try to send me some slacker to replace her.”

“That's easy,” replied Chase, “I don't have any. Don't you have a pony you'd like to move up?”

“That's true,” said Dash as she thought it over, “I can think of a couple of part timers to start with.”

“Hey, how about an older experienced pony that's looking to cut back a little?” asked Chase. “You could move up a part timer and replace the part timer with a good experienced pony.”

“I could see that working,” said Rainbow Dash. “You know Chase, I think it's good that you came here. It's not often that two team leaders meet up and talk about stuff. We should do this more often.”

“I'd like that, Rainbow,” said Chase.

Silverspeed elbowed Slipstream and winked. Slipstream covered her mouth to hide a grin. Rainbow Dash noticed at once.

“Don't you two have someplace to be?” asked Dash.

“Not really,” said Slipstream.

“Me neither,” said Silverspeed, “besides, it's more fun to watch you two fight and make up.”

“You're quick at that,” laughed Slipstream. “You fought and made up in ten seconds flat.”

“Inside Chase,” said Rainbow Dash. She turned and entered her home, waited for Chase, and closed the door on her underlings.

* * *
“I don't mean just us,” said Dash. “I mean all of the leaders, all the pegasi weather ponies. Maybe we could get an exchange program going or something.”

“That's a great idea,” said Chase, “you should write it up and send it to Cloudsdale. I'll endorse it if you want me to.”

“I will,” said Dash. “Let me figure out a few details. Maybe do a chart or something.”

“Not bad,” said Chase. “It really is a good idea. I didn't know anything about the Everfree Forest before I got here. And I didn't know how Ponyville does things or what resources you have here.”

“Resources?” said Dash.

“Well, how many ponies you have,” said Chase, “and if they're any good.”

“Oh, right,” said Dash. “If we ever have to move pegasi around in case of emergency it would help if at least some of use knew each other and were a little familiar with the weather, terrain and stuff.”

“Yeah,” said Chase, “like when that big storm hit Manehatten. I spent a lot of time explaining what all my ponies thought were simple things not to mention trying to remember who was who and which ones were the leaders. It was a real pain in the flank.”

Dash laughed, “I'll bet. Let me get some parchment and a quill. I've got to write this stuff down.”

Dash and went to her office followed by Chase. She dug out a map of Equestria and began numbering the towns that had their own weather teams. Next Dash took the parchment and made a grid. She started filling in the grid with the numbers of the towns.

“Okay,” said Dash, “we can start like this. Number one is Cloudsdale and number two is Canterlot. They swap a leader or a second in command and two weather ponies for a week. Number three is Ponyville and number four is Baltimare and they'll swap for a week and so on. Next time number one will swap with number three and number two with number four. We can just continue down the list until all the towns have swapped with all the others.”

“But not all the ponies will get to visit all the others,” said Chase.

“Not the first time through, no,” said Dash, “but after a few months of doing this, there should be a lot of pegasi that have got to know other areas.”

“So you think this should be an ongoing thing?” said Chase thoughtfully. “I suppose it would have to be because of all the ponies joining and leaving. You surprise me, Rainbow, I didn't think you would come up with something like this so fast.”

“It's no big deal,” replied Dash. “All I did was make a bigger version of my work rotation. It's pretty much the same thing. Now to write the letter.”

The letter took Rainbow Dash a little longer than she had thought. For one thing, Chase insisted on checking her wording and spelling very closely. This irritated the mare and she began to lose patience but she didn't want to look like an idiot to the Cloudsdale officials so she doggedly stuck to it. After the letter, she returned to her chart and finished filling in the schedule for six months.

“There! That should do it,” said Dash. “I still have time to get this down to the post office before the party too.”

“Before you seal the envelope, I want to enclose my letter, “said Chase. “Let me have a quill and paper.”

“What are you going to write?” asked Dash.

“Basically that I agree that your idea is a good one,” answered Chase, “and that we both benefited from an exchange of ideas. Does that sound good?”

“Yeah,” said Dash, “that sounds good. Just don't make it sound better than mine.”

Chase laughed. “I won't. It's just a short note to let them know I like the idea. Two team leaders might get it a little more attention.”

“Go ahead and write,” said Dash, “I need to get a drink.”

She went to the kitchen and got a bottle of apple juice. She laid down on the floor of clouds and watched Chase write his letter. She was still thinking over Chase's suggestion of moving to Cloudsdale. She had an answer but it wasn't one that she thought either of them would like.

“Done,” said Chase, “want to go mail it now?”

“In a minute,” said Rainbow Dash. “I thought about what you said this morning and I guess this is as good a time as any to tell you.” She hesitated. “It's a good suggestion, and I'm not saying I won't go for it, but not now. Not yet.”

“I see,” said Chase.

“I'm sorry,” said Rainbow Dash, “it's just too sudden. I want to get to know you better first and you should get to know me too. You might like me now but I'm not the easiest mare to get along with sometimes.”

“So what do you want to do?” asked Chase.

“We write to each other, meet up whenever we can, meet each others friends,” replied Dash, “you know, get to know each other. Your moving to Cloudsdale is a good idea but we need some time, at least I do.”

“Okay, Rainbow,” said Chase, “but I couldn't just leave without doing something.” He chuckled. “Besides, I didn't mean we should both just quit and move to Cloudsdale tomorrow. Even if you said yes, it would take some time.”

“Yeah,” agreed Rainbow Dash, “I guess it would. So, we're still cool, right?”

“Rainbow, of course we are,” said Chase. “I want, err.. would like things to progress faster. I am a stallion you know.”

“Yeah,” said Dash with a giggle, “I noticed.”

Chase walked over to Rainbow Dash and nuzzled her neck. They stood like that for a short time. They drew apart and kissed briefly.

“I like that,” said Rainbow, “this is really getting frustrating, isn't it?”

“You have no idea,” replied Chase. “Let's take our minds off it for a while; post office and then lets get a bite to eat before the party.”

“Okay,” said Rainbow Dash, “but I doubt it will work.” She walked back to the table to finish putting the chart and letters in the envelope. As she walked past Chase she stuck out a wing and ran it down his mane.

“You're not helping,” said Chase.

“Sorry, couldn't resist,” said Dash with a smile. “Help me get this stuff in the envelope.”

Chase helped her which brought their faces close together again. Except for a glance into each others eyes, they managed to to part without another kiss. Rainbow Dash finished addressing the envelope and sealed it. She put it into a satchel and slung it around her neck.

“All set,” said Dash, “let's go. We might get lucky and send it by courier to Cloudsdale HQ so they'll get it today.”

* * *
They left Dash's home and drifted down to Ponyville. They landed near the post office and were lucky enough to catch the courier to Cloudsdale. Leaving the post office, they walked the short distance to Sugar Cube Corner. After purchasing a few muffins, they left the shop and went to look for a place to have a picnic. Chase made a quick stop and purchased a small bag of fresh clover, having been cheated out of his first purchase by the dust devils.

“Where to now, Rainbow?” asked Chase.

“Let's fly down to the lake,” said Rainbow Dash, “it isn't far.”

“Okay,” said Chase, “you know, my wing is feeling a lot better.”

“Told ya Zecora knows what she's doing,” said Dash. “She does know a lot of stuff and can mix up a potion for just about anything. We used to be scared of her. I'm really glad we got over that.”

“Why were you scared?” asked Chase as they flew towards the lake.

“No good reason,” replied Dash with a laugh. “She was just mysterious, lived in the Everfree Forest and none of us had ever seen a zebra before.”

“There are a few in Manehatten,” said Chase, “a sometimes their ships dock so their sailors come and go. I've had some contact with them, usually weather related. Most of them are okay.”

Rainbow Dash started to dive towards the lake. She pulled up and Chase landed beside her. They had their light lunch and relaxed in the grass. It wasn't long, after a little nuzzling, before they were both drowsy. They fell asleep with Rainbow Dash between Chase's hooves and her head on his shoulder. Applejack found them there a couple of hours later when it became apparent that they were going to be late for the party.

“I'll eat mah hat if these two don't get hitched,” thought Applejack to herself. “They both like to sleep half the day away. Sure are cute like that, it'll be a shame to wake 'em.” She walked up next to the sleeping pair. “Ahem,” she said. There was no reaction. “AHEM,” she said louder. Still nothing. Applejack looked around and found a rock. She brought her hoof down on the rock three times making a loud clacking sound.

“Come in,” mumbled Rainbow Dash.

Applejack gave up on subtlety. “Will you two wake up!” she said in a loud voice. “You're going to be late for your party!”

Chase immediately snort and leaped to his hooves dumping Rainbow Dash in the process. Dash rolled and stood up, glancing around wildly.

Applejack was laughing hard enough to bring tears to her eyes. “S..sorry,” she managed to snort.

“What time is it?” asked Chase.

“Almost four,” said Applejack, “Twilight sent Fluttershy and me out to look for you when you didn't show up. Fluttershy went to check your home and I went into town. I ran into Junebug who said she saw y’all flyin' this way. I figured you were headed here.”

“Thanks for coming to get us but could you wake me up a little slower next time?” said Dash.

“Tried that, didn't work,” said Applejack with a smile. “You two are sound sleepers.”

Rainbow Dash yawned and stretched. “Let's get going. Okay if we fly ahead?”

“Sure,” said Applejack, “if you get up in the air Fluttershy might spot you. I'll trot over Ponyville way and send her to the farm if I see her. I'll be along directly.”

“See ya there, AJ,” said Dash, as she took off.

Chase and Rainbow Dash took off and climbed above the trees. They had barely started on their way to Sweet Apple Acres when Rainbow Dash spotted Fluttershy hovering above Ponyville.

“Keep going Chase,” said Rainbow Dash, “I'm going to get Fluttershy and tell Applejack to head straight to the farm.” Without waiting for an answer, she banked hard and headed for Ponyville.

Chase did as she asked but put on a little speed. He wanted to show her he was no slow poke.

After a short conversation with Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash flew to intercept Applejack. She informed her friend that Fluttershy had been pointed in the right direction and flew back towards Sweet Apple Acres.

Chase was preparing to land when Rainbow Dash flew up along side him. “Hi, Chase,” she said, “mission accomplished.”

Chase almost crashed. “You saw Fluttershy and Applejack and still got here at the same time I did?”

“Yep,” said Dash, as she landed. “no sweat. You must not have been going very fast. Wing still hurt?”

“Yeah,” replied Chase, “a little. Still feels better than it did though. I was taking it easy. Don't want to stress it. Heh”

“Give it some time,” said Dash. “Come on, we have a party to get to.”

Chapter15

The pair entered Applejack's barn and were greeted by cheers. There was quite a crowd at the party, at least forty guests were already there and more were arriving. The general story of their adventures in the Everfree Forest had been circulating around Ponyville all day. Depending on which pony was involved in the circulating, it had also changed considerably. Some versions, in fact, held little or no resemblance to the actual events. Consequently, Rainbow Dash and Chase spent most of the time before dinner answering questions and correcting fallacies.

At last it was time for dinner and the two adventurers got a much needed reprieve. Rainbow Dash and Chase sat at a table with only Rainbow's fellow Elements of Harmony and Spike for company. As they ate, Rainbow Dash's companions spent most of their time talking to Chase. He got to know more about Rainbow Dash than he had anticipated. Some of the stories made Dash laugh and others filled her with pride but not all of the stories were of Dash's liking. In her mind, her behavior at the Gala, her jealousy of Mare Do Well, her aborted theft of hospital property, her fear of anypony touching her hooves tended to tip the scales away from her accomplishments. Fortunately, Chase was more impressed by the other things she had done.

At one point Chase interrupted Twilight Sparkle to look at Rainbow Dash and ask, “You kicked a full grown dragon in the head?”

Dash could only smile and nod.

“Curse of the Pegasi strikes again,” said Chase. “I guess you are one of the old type pegasi. Please promise me you won't anything like that again.”

“Aw Chase,” said Rainbow Dash, “you know I can't do that. It just isn't me.”

“What's the Curse of the Pegasi?” asked Rarity.

To everyponies surprise, Fluttershy answered. “It's a theory about the reason pegasi are aggressive and rash,” she said. “I did a little research on it.”

“Professor Claghoof's theory, right?” said Twilight, “I read that while I was at Canterlot. Quite interesting but lacked data in my opinion.”

Applejack laughed. “No offense Fluttershy but you're the least aggressive or rash pony of any kind that I know.”

“If you don't count facing down a dragon, and a cockatrice,” said Fluttershy. “And the way I got after I took that course from Iron Will. What happens when I lose my temper like I did at the Gala? It happens to me too, just not as often as it does to Dashie.”

“She's got you there,” laughed Pinky Pie.

“Maybe you're right,” said Applejack. “You pegasuses sure can be rash and aggressive.... when you aren't sleeping the day away.”

“Well it's alright with me,” said Rarity, “remember; if Rainbow Dash hadn't been, well, herself and made that sonic rainboom, we wouldn't have got our cutie marks.”

“That's right!” said Pinky Pie, “this is a great story Chase. I'll start!”

“Wait,” said Chase, “you're the mare that did the sonic rainboom? But that was just last year.”

“I did the first one when I was just a filly,” said Rainbow Dash. “The one you're thinking of was at the Best Young Fliers Competition. I won that by the way.”

“Ooh That's a good story too,” said Pinky Pie. “Which one do you want to hear first, Chase?”

“Give me the cutie mark story first,” said Chase, “I've got to hear that.”

“Okay,” said Pinkie, “I was born on a rock farm.” And Pinkie Pie told her part of the story of her cutie mark. The rest of her friends followed and Rainbow Dash went last.

When that story was told, Chase asked about the second sonic rainboom. Rainbow Dash was about to tell her version but she spotted Zecora across the room.

“Why don't you tell the story, Rarity,” said Rainbow Dash. “I'll be right back.”

Dash went over to Zecora. “Hi, Zecora,” she said, “that ointment worked great. Thanks a lot.”

“I'm glad you like my healing paste, not to help would be a waste,” replied the zebra.

“Listen,” said Rainbow Dash, “why don't you come over to our table and meet Chase? We've been telling him about you and he'd like to meet you.”

“I will meet with Chase of course,” said Zecora, “it would be my pleasure, my little horse.”

Rainbow Dash and Zecora returned to Dash's table where she was greeted by the rest of Dash's friends and introduced to Chase. Chase thanked her again for the ointment, and asked jokingly if she had anything to make feathers grow back.

Zecora thought for a moment. “For birds there is something to make feathers grow,” she said, “but for pegasi I do not know. I will give some thought to this, perhaps an adjustment to the mix?”

“That would be great Zecora,” said Dash, “it's better than waiting a few weeks for them to grow back.”

“You must have a potion for everything,” said Chase. “Do all zebra's know how to mix potions?”

“It is not so, Chase my friend,” said Zecora, “few can mix what I intend.”

Zecora's presence livened up the the semi-private party at the table for a while but eventually the music started and most of the ponies danced or played the games Pinky Pie had provided. The party lasted for some time but did not go particularly late since most of the guests had to work the next day. Chase and Rainbow Dash danced mostly with each other but Chase also found himself dancing with Dash's friends and several of the other mares. The stallions willing to ask Rainbow Dash to dance were considerably fewer. Watching Chase dance with other mares while she sat idle made her more than a little jealous. She covered it as best she could by circulating through the crowd and accepting a dance from any pony that asked.

* * *
It was well after dark when the party started to break up. Chase and Rainbow Dash said their farewells and thanked Pinky Pie and the Apples for the party. They took flight immediately, wishing to give their legs a rest.

“You Ponyville ponies know how to throw a party anyway,” said Chase. “Do you always treat visitors like this?”

“Glad you liked it,” said Rainbow Dash as cheerfully as possible. “No, not all visitors get a bash like that. I think it's because you're kind of an important pony from Manehatten and the fact that we survived a night in the Everfree Forest.”

“What about you?” said Chase. “You're more important than me.”

“You think so,” replied Dash, “but the townsponies are so used to me doing crazy stuff that nothing I do surprises them anymore.”

Chase laughed. “Guess you'll have to try harder.” He flew close and brushed her with a wing tip.
Rainbow laughed too. Chase did have a way of making her feel better. “Maybe I will. Feel up for a little flight time before we head back?”

“Sure,” said Chase, “my wing feels almost normal now.”

The pair flew silently at a leisurely pace. The moon was up and nearly full. There were a few scattered clouds and they decided to take a break and landed on one. They sat close to one another, enjoying the quiet beauty of Luna's night. It seemed even quieter after the noisy party. Though both pegasi tried to think of something to talk about, neither spoke. They looked at one another, kissed briefly and leaned one each other. They had tomorrow, or at least part of tomorrow as Rainbow Dash would be working with the weather team, and the next day they would have to say goodbye. For now, it was enough to just be together. Eventually, Chase nuzzled Rainbow Dash and suggested they return to her home and call it a day. Reluctantly, she agreed and they flew back to Dash's home.

Landing outside of her door, Chase could bear the silence no longer. “What are you thinking about?” he asked.

“You, us,” replied Dash. “What are you thinking about?”

“Same thing,” said Chase, “ but mostly you. You're not usually this quiet.”

“I'm okay, I guess,” said Dash. “I'm just worried that you might forget me when you get back to Manehatten.”

“I don't think that's gonna happen,” said Chase. “I could say the same thing, you know? How do I know you won't find another stallion while I'm gone? You danced with quite a few tonight.”

Dash snorted. “Not as many mares as you danced with, and I'll bet you could have gone home with half of them.”

“Hmmm really?” said Chase.

Rainbow Dash glared at him. “Ha ha,” said Dash sarcastically.

“Rainbow, I was kidding,” said Chase, “and I really don't have anypony special in Manehatten. I used to but... well, we just parted ways. She got married last year.”

“None of those stallions are anything special either, at least not to me,” said Rainbow Dash, “some are just friends, others have mares already. There are some that are free but... just aren't my type.”

“Good,” said Chase, “so we're both free, attracted to each other, have a lot in common and...”

“Live in different towns, don't want to interrupt our careers or give up on our dreams,” finished Rainbow Dash.

“Yeah,” said Chase, “ain't life great?”

Dash wasn't amused. “Come on,” she said, “let's go to bed.”

“Alright!” said Chase.

“No!” exclaimed Dash, “that's not what I meant! Wait, you're messing with me again, aren't you?”

“Maaaybe,” he said.

“I will get you for this,” said Dash with a smile.

They entered Dash's home and after a few minutes of kissing and and nuzzling each other, they reluctantly went to their own rooms. It was a long time before Chase got to sleep. Strangely, Rainbow Dash was able to fall asleep almost immediately.

Part 4

Chapter 16

Rainbow Dash awoke to the sound of her alarm and crawled out of her bed. After making herself somewhat presentable, she quietly went to Chase's room to see if he was awake. She found Chase still asleep on one side of the bed. Her sense of humor rose to the surface and she stealthily joined him in bed. He didn't awaken as she pulled the blanket slowly over herself. Rolling onto her side she faced Chase and waited for him to wake up.

Minutes passed and so did Rainbow Dash's patience. She scooted closer and placed a foreleg over Chase's shoulder. It took a squeeze or two before Chase opened his eyes.

The first thing he saw was Rainbow's blue face and colorful mane just a hoof width from his own.

“Good morning stud,” said Rainbow Dash, “last night was fantastic.”

Chase awoke fully. “Wwwha?” he stammered, “did we? I mean, we didn't, did we?”

“Don't tell me you don't remember,” said Dash in mock anger, “I suppose you don't remember all those promises either!”

“Promises?” replied Chase, “I, uh, what? What did I..don't remember any...”

“You stallions are all alike,” continued Dash, “one wild night and I'll probably never hear from you again!”

Chase sat up stunned, trying desperately to regain a memory he wished he possessed. Rainbow Dash couldn't keep a straight face any longer.

“Bwahahahaha,”she laughed rolling off the bed and holding her sides. “That was great! I wish I had a picture of your face right now!”

Chase got it and slapped both hooves against his head. “Okay, you got me,” he said, “now I'm going to get you!”

Chase dove off the bed and tried to land on Rainbow Dash but she was too quick. She rolled aside, landed on her hooves and was instantly in the air. Chase was between her and the door and was on his hooves too. He jumped towards her and extended his wings. Dash squealed, spun in midair and flew out the window.

Normally, Rainbow Dash would have simply out flown Chase and escaped but she was laughing too hard to build up speed. Chase, on the other hoof, was determined to catch her. Dash managed to evade Chase a few times by turning at the last second but this made her laugh even harder and Chase performed a mid-air tackle. Dash twisted and tried to break free but the stallion was too strong and she was nearly crippled with laughter.

“Ha!” said Chase, “I caught you, now you owe me a kiss.”

“How does that work?” asked Dash. “I don't remember making a bet.”

“Because I won't let go until you do,” replied Chase.

“So?” said Dash. She felt quite comfortable flying along beneath Chase and was in no hurry to change the situation. She looked around, enjoying the morning sun. With a shock, she realized that they were highly visible to a large portion of Ponyville. Deciding that she didn't want to be seen in the somewhat compromising position she was in, Dash craned her neck around to look at Chase. He stretched his neck forward and she was just barely able to kiss him on the nose.

“Okay, Chase, you've had your kiss,” said Dash, “now let me go.”

“You waited too long, it's two kisses now,” said Chase.

“Oh, come on,” complained Dash, “this is too awkward. I'm a great flier, not a contortionist.”

Chase was able to inch forward slightly. “There, that should do it,” he said.

“Last chance Chase,” warned Rainbow, “I mean it.”

Chase just smiled.

Rainbow Dash abruptly folded her wings which caused them to nose down and lose altitude. Chase flapped and tried to hold her up. Dash did not help. She opened her wings but at an angle that forced them into an even steeper dive. Chase tried to compensate but whenever he tried to pull up Rainbow Dash forced them back into a dive and their flight became ever more erratic. Chase was having a difficult time holding on now and his grip slipped. Instantly Dash took advantage of the lapse and somersaulted out of his grasp. Chase shot over her and had to use all of his skills to pull up before he hit the ground. Rainbow Dash in the meantime was already speeding back to her house. Chase took aim and sped after her.

Rainbow Dash reached her home and landed on the porch by her front door. Turning, she saw Chase rapidly approaching. He was grinning and obviously in the mood for some more fun. Rainbow Dash decided that enough was enough. She wanted some breakfast and still had to meet with the weather ponies who would start to arrive soon. She waited for Chase and saw that he wasn't slowing down much. “He's going to grab me again and keep flying,” she thought, “not this time.” She stepped toward to the edge with a smile on her face. Chase was almost upon her when Dash hopped off the edge and dropped. Deprived of a target, Chase tried to brake and hit the side of Dash's house. He fell back onto the porch.

Rainbow Dash slowly reappeared over the edge of her porch. “You okay?” she asked.

“Ow,” replied Chase. “Whoever built this place did a good job. Those are some dense clouds.”

“Come on,” said Rainbow Dash, “time to quit fooling around. I have to work today and the team will be here soon. I'm going to fix us some breakfast.” She landed and walked inside.

Chase picked himself up and went inside to find Rainbow Dash at work in the kitchen. “I didn't make you mad, did I?” he said.

“Not really,” said Dash, “as long as I get to eat my breakfast and get my schedule ready.”

“Good,” said Chase as he rubbed his neck, “I'd hate to see what would happen if I did.”

“You are okay aren't you?” said Dash, “I didn't think you'd hit that hard.”

“Yeah, I'm alright,” said Chase, “wing is working fine too. Think I could take the rest of that ointment along when I leave?”

“Sure,” said Dash, “and that reminds me, we should stop by Zecora's later and check on that feather potion or whatever it is.”

Dash set a few bowls of vegetables and fruit on the table. She took a basket of hay from a shelf in the pantry and added that to menu.

“Dig in,” she told Chase, but she didn't join him. Instead she took a mouthful of hay and walked into her work room. She returned with a clipboard, walked to a window and once again went airborne. She wasn't gone long and returned to her breakfast. Between bites, Dash made some notations on the clipboard and checked some schedules. Chase left her alone as she worked and concentrated on his own breakfast.

“All done,” announced Rainbow Dash. She attacked the bowl of fruit and ate as fast as she could.

“So what are your plans for today?” asked Chase.

Rainbow Dash swallowed hard. “It's going to be a busy day. I'm taking the Everfree Patrol this morning and I'll have Thunderlane take the rest of the ponies to gather up some rain clouds and head them to the southern sector. They are supposed to get a good two hour rain today but I know there aren't enough clouds around Ponyville to give them that much.”

“So what are you going to do? Send a request to Cloudsdale?” asked Chase.

“No,” replied Dash, “I think we can get some more from over Everfree. After Cloudchaser and I get done checking on a possible storm heading in from the west, we'll head southeast and look for some clouds closer to where we need them. Should check the reservoir level too in case the storm goes into the northern mountains. It should be okay.”

“Mind if I tag along and help out?” asked Chase.

“No, I don't mind,” said Dash. “You could get another flight over the forest that way.”

“And it would free up another one of your ponies,” said Chase.

“No it won't,” replied Rainbow Dash, “Cloudchaser is still coming with us.”

“Afraid to be alone with me?” teased Chase.

“No,” said Rainbow Dash, “it's just that three of us can bring over more clouds than two. Thunderlane and four ponies can handle getting the storm started. You can go with him instead if you want but I'll take another pony from his crew to replace you. By the way, if you go with Thunderlane, you'll also be taking orders from him.”

“No,” said Chase, “I'll go with you. Just curious though; why wouldn't you put me in charge instead of Thunderlane?”

“I trust that you know what you're doing, Chase, but you don't know where you'll be doing it. I can tell Thunderlane some real basic instructions and get things moving. With you, I'd have to spend time while everypony else is standing around.” Rainbow Dash hadn't meant to insult Chase and gazed at him to judge his reaction.

“Makes sense,” said Chase, “I'd rather fly with you anyway.”

“Good,” said Dash, “we'll get to spend all day together now. We'd better get outside, they should be arriving now.” She stuffed another clump of hay into her mouth and headed for the door.

* * *
Chase hurried to finish his breakfast and followed her. He caught up to Rainbow Dash as she exited her house. Thunderlane, Slipstream and Flitter were already waiting on the porch. The other three weather team members, Star Hunter, Cloudchaser and Silverspeed could be seen approaching.

Rainbow Dash sat down and fiddled with her notes while she waited on the rest of the team which eventually assembled in front of her. She stood and addressed the team.

“Okay team,” she began, “as some of you probably know, we've got a busy day today. Cloudchaser, you're with me. We'll be going on a patrol and to look for some more clouds. Chase must be bored or something because he volunteered to come with us. Thunderlane, you take everypony else and get some rain started in the southern sector. There aren't enough clouds around Ponyville to finish the job so we'll see what we can find over Everfree. Start on the Sweet Apple Acres side and work your way across and we'll join you later. Any questions?”

There were no questions so the team separated and flew out on their missions. It was not far to the reservoir which was low enough to accommodate a large volume of water. The three pegasi turned and headed towards the Everfree Forest. By the time they reached the approaching storm, it was breaking into smaller bands and drifting into the vacant lands west of Ponyville. One small group of clouds was cutting across Everfree directly towards Ponyville. Rainbow Dash led her small group around the clouds.

“This will be perfect,” said Dash, “all we have to do is wait a little while and then send it to the south sector.”

“I don't understand,” said Chase, “why not round them up and tow them down there now?”

“Distance,” replied Dash. “I know it might not seem like it but it's a long way to the south sector from here and that's a pretty big pile of clouds. We'll be better off continuing our patrol east and then coming back later after the wind does our work for us.”

“Just like we did last spring when we cut off part of that storm coming in from the east,” said Cloudchaser.

“Yep,” said Dash, “and that worked out great.”

“I get what you're trying to do, if you're planning on the three of us moving that whole band,” said Chase, “this should be interesting.”

They left the rain clouds and headed east. It took them nearly two hours to circle around and return to where Rainbow Dash hoped to find the rainclouds. Chase was impressed by the accuracy of her prediction and told her so.

“When you've seen the same thing happen before it's not a big deal,” said Dash. “I could have been wrong but it was a pretty good bet that the clouds would be near here.”

“And it's about thirty miles closer too,” added Cloudchaser. “Besides, Rainbow Dash is really good at her guesses.”

“I've told you before, Cloudchaser,” said Rainbow Dash, “there are records of this stuff. I went out this morning and took a look at the sky and then looked in the folder for the type of weather I expected. There was an almost identical match. It wasn't just a guess.”

“Sure,” said Cloudchaser, “but you still had to decide which option to pick. You're usually right on the bits.”

“That's true,” mused Rainbow Dash, “just more evidence of how awesome I am.” She laughed.

“Okay Ms. Awesome,” said Chase, “what now?”

“Pick the largest cloud you can move and gather the rest here and stick 'em fast to this big cloud,” said Dash. “We'll each take a cloud down to the south sector, get the rest of the team and then come back for this big one.”

“I'll take that one,” said Chase, pointing to a large cloud.

“That one over there for me,” said Cloudchaser.

“I'll do that one,” said Rainbow Dash. She selected a cloud nearly as large as the one Chase picked.

The three pegasi rounded up the rest of the smaller clouds and attached them to the main cloud. They went to the clouds they selected and after Rainbow Dash took aim on the southern sector, they began pushing the clouds towards Ponyville.

It was slow going at first but after they got the clouds moving they soon made good time. Every now and then Rainbow Dash had to fly above her cloud to make sure they were holding a true course. After about half an hour of steady going they neared the border of the Everfree Forest and could see the storm that the weather team had already assembled. Thunderlane saw them approaching and led the rest of the team to meet them. The extra wing power soon had the clouds in place and the rest of the south sector was now getting rain. They left Cloudchaser to look after things and the rest of the team went back for the largest cloud. It was mid afternoon by the time they got back with it and spread it out. There was a little extra so they had fun breaking it up.

“Alright team!” said Rainbow Dash, “good job, all we have to do is monitor the rain for the rest of the day. We'll eat lunch in shifts. Thunderlane, take Flitter, Silverspeed and Slipstream and you can break first. Be back in an hour.”

After consulting with Star Hunter about when the first rains had started, Rainbow Dash decided to halt the area that had been under the rain the longest. Some of the clouds were simply merged with the others while the most depleted were obliterated. Chase finally got to do what he loved to do the most; cloud busting. Whether it was because he had been out of field work for so long or that he was trying to impress Rainbow Dash, Chase threw himself into the task with gusto. He proved so good at cloud busting that the other pegasi simply flew aside and let him have at it.

As he finished, Chase was treated to applause from Rainbow Dash, Star Hunter and Cloudchaser who were relaxing on a nearby cloud. He looked around sheepishly and made a mock bow in their direction which changed the applause to laughter.

“Looks like you can do something besides office work, Chase,” said Rainbow Dash. “Sure you don't want a job here? You could get out and do this every day.”

“Tempting, but no thanks,” replied Chase, “I like my job and the city life. That was a fun change of pace though. I might have to make a point of flying with the team more.”

Chase landed on the cloud next to Rainbow Dash and the three pegasi awaited the other half of the team to return. Being pegasi they didn't sit still for long, despite all the work they had done. Soon they were all chasing Rainbow Dash in a game of follow the leader. It was flown at an easy pace, the object being to mimic the maneuver rather than out fly the leader. Rainbow Dash saw the rest of the team approaching so it was time to end the game. She did a midair somersault followed by a spinning roll and dove into a loop. Cloudchaser was able to follow along the longest but Star Hunter and Chase couldn't duplicate the series of quick, tight tricks.

“That's it gang,” she called to her group, “let's go get some lunch.”

“What should we do while you're gone?” asked Thunderlane.

“Just monitor the rain and keep it in place,” said Dash. “It should be time to break it up when we get back.”

Chapter 17

Dash's part of the flew into Ponyville and hit the market. They ate together on the grass near the gazebo. All were hungry so there was not much talk until they finished their meal. After lunch Rainbow Dash started a conversation in order to keep them all awake, as much as to pass the time.

“So Chase,” she began, “what do you think of the way we do things around here?”

Chase hesitated before he answered. “It's a lot more...casual, but you get things done. I just wonder how smooth things would be without you.”

“Thunderlane can handle things pretty well,” said Dash. “He can be a little lazy sometimes, but he's good.”

“He can't organize things like you though,” said Star Hunter. “He can't predict the weather as well either.”

“Aww, he just needs some practice,” said Dash, “Cloudchaser, you're pretty good at predicting the weather. Maybe you can give him a hoof next time he's in charge... unless I give you a chance to see what you can do.”

“Really?” said Cloudchaser, “you'd do that?”

“Sure,” said Rainbow Dash, “it wouldn't hurt to have another pony to take lead. What if both of us are unavailable?”

“Wait,” said Chase, “you mean to say you don't have a chain of command list?”

“Sure I do,” said Rainbow Dash, “it's a regulation. It's a matter of having the experience. There is a list and an envelope of instructions for each pony on the list. There are copies in my office and at the town hall.”

“I see,” said Chase, “but they're not trained as team leaders.”

“Thunderlane is,” replied Dash, “and there are instructions for each pony to follow. Star Hunter, you're the lowest on the list of anypony here. You have to lead. What do you do?”

Star Hunter took a breath and closed his eyes. “I go to the town hall and get my envelope and inform the mayor. Open the envelope and follow the instructions. They tell me I should call in all the part-time weather ponies and make them full time. There is also a list of ponies I should ask to volunteer to fill in the team. I send one pony to get them and have them report. I inform Cloudsdale of what is going on and request help, and possibly a new lead pony, if necessary.”

“What do you mean if necessary?” asked Chase. “If more than half your team is incapacitated, I'd say it was necessary.”

“Well, if it's due to minor injuries then we'd try to get by until they return,” said Star Hunter. “It would be the same if they were missing, like Rainbow Dash was the other day, we wouldn't send for help until we made a thorough search. If ponies were seriously injured or ...dead, we'd send a pegasus to Cloudsdale immediately.” Star Hunter looked at the ground. He didn't even want to think about those last two possibilities. Cloudchaser brushed him with her wing, a sympathetic look on her face.

“Very good, Star,” said Rainbow Dash. “See Chase? I have it covered.”

“I guess,” admitted Chase, “sort of. Are all the instructions the same?”

“No, of course not,” said Rainbow Dash. “Sure, some things are the same, like where to find charts and schedules and stuff but I personalized each one.”

“How?” asked Chase.

“None of your business,” said Dash. “They all have a personal message from me meant for their eyes only.”

“I see,” said Chase, “so you just made up your own protocol? That's not really within the regs.”

“Yes it is,” said Dash. “I can't give you the exact number or paragraph but it's in there. It says that on teams with less than twenty ponies, the hierarchy is up to the team leader.”

“You found a loophole?” said Chase. “Rainbow, what do you tell the inspectors when they ask to see you plans? Don't they try to get you on the standardized plan.”

“Inspectors?” Dash laughed, “I haven't seen an inspector in a couple years. The last one did try to get us on that but once he saw how we worked together and I showed him the loophole, he just checked it off and I've never seen him again.”

“You're kidding!” said Chase in amazement. “Our annual inspection is something I wouldn't wish on a Diamond Dog. Maybe I will take a job here after all.”

Cloudchaser laughed. “Is that the only reason?” she asked coyly.

Chase gave up on covering up his feelings. It was obvious to everypony that he and Rainbow Dash had become close. “I can think of a reason or two,” he replied with a glance in Dash's direction.

Rainbow Dash blushed and stared daggers at Cloudchaser. Her frustration level was reaching it's limit and she didn't need more reminders that she and Chase were soon to be separated against their wills. Chase returned to the subject of the weather team before she could speak.

“So, Rainbow,” said Chase, “you just set things up the way you want and do as you please? You would definitely not fit in with the Manehatten team.”

“I told you I'd rather run the show here than take the back seat in Manehatten,” said Dash with a shrug. “I could fit into your team if I wanted to. I mean, if all I had to do was follow orders and let you take the heat, it would be easy.”

“I suppose so, when you put it like that,” said Chase. “I still find it amazing that Ponyville is so independent. Cloudsdale really doesn't bother with you very much?”

“And I hope it stays that way,” interrupted Cloudchaser.

“Here, here,” added Star Hunter. “I like things the way they are. As long as Rainbow Dash is here, we'll be okay.”

Chase did not reply. 'As long as she's here,' he thought, 'and what if she leaves?'

A voice broke his revery. “Hey Chase!” came a voice from above, “what are you doing here?”

Looking up he saw a mauve colored pegasus with a bright red mane and tail. He wore a satchel and had a cutie mark of three red lightning bolts.

“Hiya Red,” said Chase with a smile, “I'm here on vacation. What brings you to town?”

“Delivering a dispatch,” replied Red as he reached into the satchel, “here you go, Rainbow Dash.”

“Thanks,” said Rainbow Dash as she accepted the letter.

“I guess you know everypony here,” said Chase to Red.

“Just Rainbow Dash,” replied the stallion.

“I see,” said Chase, “well, these are my new friends Cloudchaser and Star Hunter. Guys, meet Red Blaze from the Cloudsdale Weather Headquarters.”

“Pleased to meet you,” said Red, “but I'm with a courier company now. I got fed up with being in an office all day so I took a job with another ex-weather pony delivering special dispatches. Pays about the same but I get to fly more.”

While Chase was making introductions, Rainbow Dash was reading the dispatch. “Wow!” she said, “that was a fast reply. Hey Chase, they liked my idea. They want to see us in three weeks at the monthly meeting.”

“That's great!” said Chase, “I thought it was a good one.” He was also thinking that it would be good to see Rainbow again so soon.

“What idea?” said Cloudchaser and Star Hunter together.

“An exchange program for weather ponies,” said Rainbow Dash. “We send a couple of ponies to other towns to see how they do things and get to know each other. It will be ongoing so that all the teams will have a chance to visit all the other towns.”

“That is so cool!” said Cloudchaser, “I volunteer right now. Can I go to Trottingham?”

“Me too,” said Star Hunter, “but can I go to Phillydelphia?”

“Slow down,” said Rainbow Dash, “nothing is decided yet. We should be getting back to bust those clouds. Chase, you can stay and talk to your friend if you want, we can handle this.”

“Sure,” said Chase, “go ahead and I'll catch up.”

“We'll save you a few clouds,” said Dash with a smile. She took off followed by Cloudchaser and Star Hunter.

“I thought you were on vacation?” said Red.

“Long story,” laughed Chase. “Rainbow was my guide on a little adventure through the Everfree Forest and I decided to get a little flight time in today busting clouds. Felt pretty good.”

Red laughed. “You always liked that part of the job. I remember that.”

“This has been a great vacation,” said Chase, “got a few things for my collection, got to meet both the Princesses, met a lot of great mares. I never thought a little town like this would be this much fun.”

“Ponyville is different, that's for sure,” said Red looking around the town, “more important than you'd think too. There's kind of a 'hooves off' policy regarding it back at HQ.”

“That's interesting,” said Chase, though he thought he knew why.

“Yeah,” said Red, “a couple years back an inspector pointed out that no pony here had any advanced certification and there was talk of relieving Rainbow Dash and sending in a more experienced pony. Thing was, there is this regulation about small weather teams that didn't allow them to do it. They re-wrote the regulation and sent it to Canterlot for approval. A couple of days latter a carriage shows up with a team of guards and guess who walks in?”

“Celestia?” guessed Chase.

“No,” laughed Red, “Princess Luna. She walks in without saying anything and right into the head pony's office. The door closed and two guards stayed outside. She didn't need them. No pony wanted to go anywhere near her. She was in there for about five minutes and no pony knows exactly what she said to the commander. There was one moment when her highness raised her voice and everypony in the office heard her say; 'Silence! Do you dare to question our command?' and shortly after that, she left. Since then, as far as I know, no pony from headquarters has come out here.”

“I can believe it,” said Chase in awe. “I met Princess Luna two days ago and she was actually pretty nice. I guess she has a dark side...no pun intended.”

Red laughed. “Yeah, I won't cross her, that's for sure! So, you said you met some mares. Anypony special?”

“Yeah,” said Chase, “I did. I don't know if anything will come of it though.”

“She not quite as taken with you as you are with her?” asked Red. “Don't worry, if she doesn't come around I'm sure you'll find some pony else.”

“That isn't the problem,” said Chase. “She feels the same as me but she doesn't want to leave Ponyville.”

Red thought for a moment. “That's tough,” he said at last. “Is she any pony I know?”

“Yes,” said Chase.

“So who is..” Red started to speak but he jumped to the answer himself. “Oh no, you don't mean Rainbow Dash, do you?”

Chase smiled at his friend. “You were always the smart one, Red.”

Red laughed. He thought it funny that his hard working, practical friend would fall for somepony like Rainbow Dash. “And you always aimed high. You and Rainbow Dash? I can't think of a mare that's more different from you. You do know she's kinda nuts, right?”

“What do you mean?” said Chase defensively.

“Take it easy,” said Red. “I just meant that she ...um used to get into all kinds of trouble. She also has quite a high opinion of herself and doesn't think rules apply to her. And the way she flies, well, now that's really nuts.”

“Maybe she's right,” said Chase.

“You got it bad, huh?” said Red. “I wish you luck, buddy. I can't say I blame you for falling for her. I made a pass at her once and I thought she was going to kill me. Sure is cute though.”

“Sounds like her,” said Chase with a laugh, “and she is cute but there's more to her than that. What kind of trouble was she in?”

“It was mostly when she was young,” said Red, “dumb foal stuff for the most part. Skipping school, a lot of rule breaking, illegal racing, a few fights. Nothing real serious, just a lot of it. She had a knack for getting caught too. Nothing we didn't do.” He hoofed Chase on the shoulder. “The higher ups were glad when she left Cloudsdale and came here...at least until they heard she was team leader.”

“I bet that didn't go over well,” said Chase. “Anyway, she's doing a fine job here. I got to see her work first hoof. Unorthodox, but what she does works.”

“That idea was hers?” asked Chase. “I mean really hers, not yours and you're just letting Dash take the credit?”

“No,” said Chase, “it was hers. I added my endorsement but that's all.”

“I didn't take her for being that smart,” said Red.

“She isn't what I'd call a deep thinker,” said Chase, “but if she has to think things through, she can. She just doesn't like to.”

Both the stallions laughed. “I'll let you get going,” said Chase, “I want to catch up to her and bust a few clouds. I should hurry or they'll be done by the time I get there.”

“Yeah, I have to go too,” said Red, “I still have a couple of deliveries here in town. Then I have to fly to Canterlot. I'll spend the night there, check at our office for anything for Cloudsdale and head back in the morning.”

“Maybe we'll bump into you in a couple of weeks,” said Chase, “until then, take care of yourself. See ya.”

“You too, Chase,” said Red, “it was good seeing you again. Make sure that multicolored mare doesn't kick your flank.”

Chase just laughed and took off. Red watched him go and then headed to the town hall. Red chuckled to himself. “Chase and Rainbow Dash,” he thought, “oh sweet Celestia, poor Chase.” He snickered. “What if they have foals?” Laughter got the better of him and he had to stop walking.

* * *
While his friend was entertaining passersby in Ponyville by rolling on the ground in hysterical laughter, Chase flew back to the south sector to help the weather team. There were plenty of clouds left for him so he dove into the nearest bunch and got to work. With eight ponies the job didn't take a long time and they were through well before supper. The team swooped down and landed on the road to Sweet Apple Acres.

Rainbow Dash addressed the pegasi. “That's it for today gang,” she said. “Thunder, you take the morning patrol tomorrow and I'll take the afternoon. Flitter, Slipstream and Star Hunter will go with Thunderlane and Cloudchaser and Silverspeed will be with me. It will also be a practice section. Even though Thunder and I will be in charge, Flitter and Cloudchaser will get to try their hooves at leading. We'll correct anything you get wrong and will be there to answer questions but you'll get to lead. Thunderlane, stop by my place around noon and report and then we'll switch off. Okay everypony, I'll see you all tomorrow.”

“Wait!” came a call, “I've got a little something for y'all.” It was Applejack and Big Mac pulling a cart.
The brother and sister came up to the pegasi. “Just thought y'all could use somethin' ta drink and a maybe a little snack so we brought some apple juice and a few fresh apple pies. Big Mac, let's serve it up!”

“Eeyup,” said Big Mac as he got out of the harness and went to the back of the cart.

Applejack served the pie while Big Mac passed out the bottles of juice. The two farm ponies then joined the weather team in an impromptu picnic.

“Applejack, you sure can bake an excellent pie,” said Chase.

“Thanks, Chase,” said Applejack, “I'll pass that along to Granny Smith. She's the one who made them. I was out in the fields all day.”

“Even in the rain?” asked Flitter.

“Well, not much in the rain,” said Applejack. “Our farm is pretty big and you didn't have it rainin' everywhere at once. I got a little wet a couple of times but it wasn't too bad.”

“You got lucky AJ,” said Rainbow Dash, “there weren't enough clouds around Ponyville to do the job all at once.”

“I'll take lucky,” said Applejack. “You still leaving tomorrow, Chase?”

“My train leaves at ten in the morning,” said Chase. He didn't seem very happy about it.

“End of vacation time,” said Rainbow Dash. She didn't sound very happy herself.

“No more gossip about Ponyville's hottest new couple,” lamented Cloudchaser. A few of the weather team snickered while the others turned away.

“What's that supposed to mean?” said Dash angrily.

“You don't know?” said Cloudchaser, “it's all over town. Overnight adventure, private picnic's and meals, Chase is staying at your place, you have to admit it makes for a lot of gossip. You're just lucky Gabby Gums is out of business.”

“Who?” asked Chase.

“You don't want to know,” said Dash. She hung her head. Chase walked over and put his wing around her.

“Sorry, Rainbow Dash,” said Cloudchaser, “I didn't think you cared.”

“In a way, I don't,” said Dash, “but it's just...”

“It's no ponies business what we do,” said Chase. “Anyway, we didn't do anything wrong.”

“We aren't judging,” said Flitter, “I think it's great you two found each other. It's just what it looks like to some ponies. I overheard Mrs. Rich talking the other day and she was saying some things.”

“Like what?” asked Dash.

Flitter got up and imitated Mrs. Rich. “It's just scandalous, I say. Our lead weather pony taking a strange stallion home when they've only just met. The mayor will hear of this. Ponyville has a reputation to maintain.”

Flitter had the snobbish pony's manners down perfectly and drew some laughter from the others. Even Rainbow Dash smiled.

“I'm sorry if I caused you any trouble,” said Chase. “I should have stayed at the hotel.”

“Forget about it Chase,” said Rainbow Dash, “the gossip started when we got trapped in the forest together. The ones who wanted something to talk about had us that night.”

“Alright everypony, listen up,” said Chase, “yes, Rainbow and I are very fond of one another but we also respect each other enough to not do anything stupid. We both knew we were going to be separated in a few days so we really tried to keep things slow.”

“Which has been tough,” said Dash quietly.

“What she said,” said Chase. “The point is, we've been a good little colt and filly and have nothing to be ashamed of. I'm leaving, but I'm sure Rainbow would appreciate your support.”

The weather team was unanimous in agreeing to help dispel any nasty rumors. Rainbow Dash felt a little better.

“You know you can count on me and the girls too,” said Applejack.

Rainbow Dash smiled. “I know AJ, you didn't even have to say it.”

“I don't get what the big deal is,” said Silverspeed. “Nopony else would get this kind of attention.”

“It's because of my position,” said Dash, “and my connection to the princesses. I guess I'm kind of a celebrity around here too. Fame stinks.”

“So what happens when you get to be a Wonderbolt?” asked Chase.

“I'll ask Spitfire the next time I see her,” said Dash. “She's probably had to deal with stuff like this.”

“Yeah,” said Star Hunter, “that scandal sheet from Cloudsdale is always printing stuff about the her and some pony.”

“How do you know?” teased Slipstream.

“Well, you know, I uh heard, that they um...” stammered Star Hunter.

“Right,” said Flitter, “you 'heard' about it.”

The rest of the ponies laughed. They thanked Applejack and Big Mac and headed back to town. The crew broke up as they headed to their homes until Rainbow Dash and Chase were flying alone.

Chapter 18

“Follow me Rainbow,” said Chase, “I have a stop to make.” He banked and flew into town.

It was a few moments before Rainbow Dash realized he was headed for the jewelers. Her heart beat faster and her mood improved instantly. She wished Chase would pick up speed but he seemed to be in no hurry. In truth, it wasn't long before they arrived, no matter what it felt like to her.

They entered the jewelers and found it empty. There was some noise from the back room and Mr. Karat appeared.

“Ah! Mr. Chase,” said the jeweler, “I was hoping you would come by soon. I finished it this afternoon and it's all ready. Wait here, I'll just be a moment.”

“I can hardly wait,” squeaked Rainbow Dash. She had a hard time keeping her feet still.

Chase looked at her in surprise and smiled. She was like a filly on Hearth Warming Eve. There was more to this mare than a daring, bragging flier or even a team leader. He pried his eyes away as Mr. Karat returned.

“Here you are sir,” said Mr. Karat, “all ready. I'm sure you will be pleased.”

Chase took the box from Mr. Karat and immediately gave it to Rainbow Dash. She sat it on the counter and used her nose to open it.

“I can't believe this is the same crystal!” Rainbow gasped. “It's so beautiful. It's better than a diamond, Chase. I love it.” She threw both hooves around his neck in a crushing hug.

Chase hugged her back and they stood there until Mr. Karat coughed.

“Perhaps you would like to try it on?” suggested the jeweler.

“Yes, of course I would,” replied Rainbow.

With Chase's help, Rainbow Dash attached the hair clip to the yellow part of her mane just in front of her left ear. The jeweler had also attached a silver chain with a second clasp. They hung the chain below her ear and clipped it fast to her mane behind her ear. Mr. Karat held up a mirror so that she could see herself. She turned this way and that admiring both the clip and how good she looked wearing it.

Chase admired it too. “Does this make up for the necklace?” he asked.

“More than makes up for it,” replied Rainbow, “if Princess Luna asked to trade with me I'd tell her no.”

Mr. Karat nearly dropped the mirror. “Y..you had Princess Luna's necklace?”

“We found it in the Everfree Forest,” said Chase, “I gave it to Rainbow but she knew who it belonged to so she had to give it up.”

“I'll bet it was beautiful,” said Karat in hushed tones.

“It was,” said Rainbow, “it was silver, sapphire and amethyst. It had her cutie mark in the middle made from onyx and diamonds. But this, this is more me.”

The pair of pegasi took their leave of Mr. Karat after thanking him for his work once more. Chase started to take off but Rainbow Dash stopped him. She wanted to walk through town and show off her new gift. They walked along ignoring the glances and outright stares of the ponies they passed. Rainbow Dash planned to show her gift to some of her friends first but it was time for dinner so they decided to go to the restaurant.

“Besides,” said Rainbow Dash, “it will give me a reason to wear it again tomorrow.”

* * *
The waiter at the restaurant had no trouble seating them this time. He also noticed Rainbow Dash's hair clip. “Ah! Madam and sir, welcome back,” he said, “right this way. I suppose that congratulations are in order.”

“Thank you,” said Chase, “yes, we're feeling much better now. Sorry about the other day.”

“Perfectly understandable sir,” said the waiter. “I imagine you both had a lot on your minds. May I get you something to drink while you decide what to order?”

They ordered drinks and a salad. When the waiter was gone, Rainbow Dash thought about what the waiter had said.

“Did the waiter seem different to you?” she asked Chase.

“Kinda,” said Chase, “maybe he's just surprised at our speedy recovery.”

“Maybe,” repeated Dash as she pondered the waiter's behavior. She reached up to scratch her head and brushed against her hair clip. “You don't think he believes this is an engagement gift, do you?”

“You know,” said Chase laughing, “he might. When I dropped this off at the jeweler, he said that it would make a fine engagement gift, if it was made of diamonds.”

“I guess he can't tell diamonds from crystal,” said Rainbow Dash. “The jeweler did a great job on polishing it up though, you'd probably have to be an expert to tell the difference.”

“Yeah,” agreed Chase. “You know, Rainbow, we could have some fun with this. It might help diffuse those rumors too.”

“I don't get it,” said Rainbow Dash.

“We let everypony think we're engaged,” said Chase. “We don't lie, but we don't correct them either. If they want to spread rumors, let's give them one.”

Rainbow Dash grinned evilly. “Oh I like this idea. Hee hee.”

“I thought you might,” replied Chase as he matched her grin. “Of course it will require a lot of kissy face and hugging in public.”

“So you had an ulterior motive,” said Dash, “I can live with that. Before you leave tomorrow, we'll go to Rarity's shop and check out some wedding stuff. Have to make sure there are some ponies there to see us.”

“Good one Rainbow,” said Chase. “I'll buy you some flowers at the market tomorrow too. What else can we do?”

While Rainbow Dash was thinking the waiter brought their salad and drinks. When he was gone Rainbow Dash spoke. “Maybe I should give you a going away gift. I'd like to do that anyway.”

“You could get on the train with me,” suggested Chase.

“No, wait that could be good,” said Dash. “I go with you to the station, we have a tearful goodbye, you leave and I chase the train down the platform calling your name; 'Chase! Chase! Don't leave me! I can't live without you!' the train leaves and I fly after it until it can't be seen from Ponyville. What do ya think?”

Chase had hidden his face in his salad bowl and was shaking with laughter. He couldn't respond.

“Come on,” said Dash, “I could pull it off.”

Chase got himself under control to some degree. “Maybe you could,” he said, “but I have a hard time picturing you doing anything that un-cool.”

Rainbow Dash laughed too. “Yeah, but it would be for a prank. Pranks are cool.”

“How would you explain it when you get back?” asked Chase.

“Yeah, that might be a problem,” admitted Dash. “No pony would believe me if I told them it was just a prank. It would be hilarious though.”

“It would be for us,” said Chase. “I suppose I could make a scene from the back of the last car. 'Rainbow! Come with me! Let me take you away from all this! I love you! I worship you!' How about it? Think you'd like to see that?”

It was Rainbow's turn to laugh. She held her sides and had a hard time staying in her seat. “D..do it! Do it!” she finally stuttered.

“Or we could re-enact a famous scene from a film, like Casaequiss. You know, 'the problems of two little ponies don't amount to a hill of beans in this crazy world'.”

Rainbow Dash laughed. “I've seen it, 'we'll always have Ponyville' hah hah.”

“Yeah,” said Chase, “'here's lookin' at you filly'.”

“Good one,” said Rainbow Dash, “how about 'play it again Spur' heh heh.”

* * *
The pair had a long enjoyable meal and if their intention was to appear as a young couple in love, they accomplished it. It near sunset when they left and began making their way home. They walked to the edge of town and flew up to Rainbow Dash's home. It was too early for bed so they went up to a balcony and relaxed.

They nuzzled each other and looked out over the fields of Ponyville. Rainbow Dash looked at Chase and smiled. She wondered if he was feeling the same things she was and decided that he most likely was.

“This was a great evening, Chase,” she said. “I wish tomorrow night would be like this.”

“Me too,” said Chase, “I'm really going to miss you. It was fun just being with you. I came here for a little adventure and a relaxing vacation. I thought I might pick up a few souvenirs. I never thought I'd meet somepony like you.”

“I'm one of a kind alright,” said Rainbow Dash, but her voice was different and it didn't sound like boasting.

“Something wrong?” asked Chase.

“This is kind of new to me,” admitted Dash. “I don't exactly have stallions waiting in line you know? I think I kind of scare them sometimes. Others, well, I guess I'm kind of fussy. You're different, you're not scared. You don't care that I can out fly you. You know I don't follow the regs very well. You might even think I'm kind of stupid or reckless. You know I have obligations to the Princesses. None of that seems to bother you and...and you treat me with respect. I don't get it.”

“What's there to get?” asked Chase. “You said I'm different, well, you're different too. And I like that about you. Sure I respect you and there's no reason to be afraid of you as long as I don't do something stupid like fill your saddlebags full of bricks. The stuff with the princesses; yeah, that bothers me because I don't like the idea of you putting yourself in danger. I don't think you're stupid, unorthodox maybe, but not stupid. And I love watching you fly. Yes, you can out fly me. So can a lot of ponies. I'm a weather pony and proud of it. Would I like to be a Wonderbolt? Sure, who wouldn't? But I know it's not going to happen.”

“Thanks,” said Rainbow Dash, “I guess I just needed to hear that.”

“I'm not going to ask what you see in me,” said Chase. “As long as you're willing to give us a chance, I'm happy.”

“I didn't see anything at first,” said Rainbow Dash. “I hate to say it but I just wanted a little adventure too and you were a good excuse. Our 'adventure' wasn't all good but by the time we got back I was starting to change my mind. You have guts, you're comfortable with yourself, generous and honest, well, kinda honest anyway. The best thing though is that you're just a lot of fun to be with.”

“Yeah,” said Chase, “you too Rainbow. I'm going to miss your laugh more than anything.”

They kissed and cuddled together. It was late before they left the soft cloud balcony and went to their rooms. It was much later when they finally fell asleep. What they dreamed about, Luna only knows.

Chapter 19

They awoke at the same time due to a knock at the door. Rainbow Dash hurried to the door thinking that Thunderlane needed her help but it was Fluttershy.

“Fluttershy,” said Rainbow Dash with a yawn, “what are you doing here?”

“Twilight sent me to make sure you were awake,” said Fluttershy. “Chase's train leaves in two hours and she wanted to treat you both to breakfast before he left.”

“Two hours?” said Rainbow Dash, “thanks Fluttershy, I didn't know it was getting so late. Tell Twilight we'll be down in a few minutes.” She turned to yell for Chase to get up but found that he had come up behind her.

“Good morning Rainbow,” he said, “hi Fluttershy, what's up?”

“Good morning Chase,” said Fluttershy, “looks like you're up. You have two hours until your train leaves.”

“I'd better finish packing then,” said Chase with a sigh.

“Twilight invited us to breakfast,” said Dash. “you finish packing and I'll zip over to Zecora's and see if she has that feather potion ready. I'll fly straight to Twilight's place from there.”

“I'll go get it if you'd like me to,” offered Fluttershy.

“Thanks Fluttershy,” said Rainbow Dash, “that would be great.”

Chase gave Rainbow Dash a peck on the cheek and went back up stairs. Fluttershy blushed.

“Rainbow Dash?” said Fluttershy. “Chase has spent every night he's been here with you.”

“Don't judge me, Fluttershy,” interrupted Dash. It was morning, she was still tired, very frustrated and her new coltfriend was leaving soon. It wasn't a good combination.

“Oh, I'm not,” said Fluttershy, “I just wanted to ask, you're um...being careful, right?”

Rainbow Dash laughed. “Yeah, real careful,” she said. “Separate rooms, it doesn't get much safer than that.”

“Really? I just thought...oh never mind,” said Fluttershy. “I'd better get going and let you get to breakfast.”

“Hey, we know what we're doing,” said Dash. “We're trying to take it slow. Trying.”

“Okay,” said Fluttershy, “I'll see you at Twilight's.”

“Thanks again Flutters,” said Dash. 'Even Fluttershy thinks we're further along in this relationship thing than we are,' thought Dash. 'Well, we're going to have some fun with this before Chase leaves. It'll serve all these ponies right.'

Rainbow Dash went upstairs and met Chase as he was getting ready to leave.

“I'm all packed,” said Chase, “most of my other stuff is down at Twilight's.”

“Good, I guess,” said Rainbow, “help me put on my hair clip.”

They went to Rainbow's room and Chase assisted her in clipping it to her mane.

“There!” said Chase, “I don't know if it's you making it look better or it making you look better but it was worth every bit.”

“Come on,” said Dash, “we should get going.”

“In a minute,” replied Chase, “come here you.”

Rainbow Dash took a step forward and Chase kissed her. This quickly escalated and they ended up falling onto Dash's bed. Eventually they came up for air and Dash broke away. “We have to get going,” she said. “Are you still up for what we talked about last night? You know, our little prank.”

“Sure,” said Chase, “come on. This should be fun.” He grinned.

* * *
They flew down to the market and walked around for a while. Chase bought Rainbow Dash a red rose which she added to her mane. The timing was perfect as Rainbow Dash noticed Mrs. Rich watching them. Rainbow threw both hooves around Chase and gave him a long kiss. She also made sure Mrs. Rich saw her hair clip which made the older mare's jaw drop. They lingered briefly at the market, leaning on one another and occasionally nuzzling. Chase put a wing around her and they walked to the library for breakfast.

“Are you letting your friends in on our joke?” asked Chase.

“No way,” said Rainbow Dash. “They've been gossiping to each other as much as the rest of the town. Fluttershy actually asked me if we were being 'careful'. We have a quick breakfast and then head over to Rarity's shop to check out some bridal stuff. I just hope there are some customers there.”

Chase laughed and said; “I get to see your evil side now. How do you want to play this?”

Rainbow Dash thought for a moment. “Pretty much just do what we've been doing. They haven't seen your gift yet so I'll make a big deal out of that. I won't even have to act for that one. Hee hee.”

Chase saw something out of the corner of his eye. “Look. There's Fluttershy.”

Fluttershy landed next to them. “Sorry Chase, Dashie,” she said, “Zecora doesn't have that potion ready yet. She said it has to brew for another day yet.”

“Oh well,” said Chase, “I can just have Rainbow mail it to me, or I can get it from her when we go to Cloudsdale in a couple of weeks.”

“No problem Chase,” said Rainbow, “maybe I can use it as an excuse to fly to Manehatten and see you.”

“Great idea,” said Chase, “I can't wait to see you again.”

* * *
They reached the library and went in. Spike had set a table which was already laden with food. Twilight and Applejack were already eating so the three pegasi joined them. Rainbow Dash and Chase made it a point to sit as close to one another as possible. They ate quietly for a while. Chase and Rainbow Dash made it a point not to take their eyes off of one another and occasionally fed each other morsels of food.

“Thanks for the breakfast Twilight,” said Rainbow Dash, “we have a lot to do before Chase leaves. Are Rarity and Pinkie Pie coming here too?”

“I stopped by Rarity's place on my way here,” said Applejack, “she has a few customers right now and doesn't expect to make it. Pinky Pie is working but she said she'd take a little time to see Chase off.”

“That's okay,” said Rainbow Dash, “we were going to stop by Rarity's anyway. I want to look at a few things and get Chase's opinion. He did such a great job on this hair clip, I really want to know what he thinks.”

“I was going to say I thought it looked beautiful,” said Fluttershy. “It's hard to imagine that it's a decoration from Princess Luna's bedroom.”

“It looks just gorgeous on you,” said Twilight. “It really reflects the colors in your mane.”

“That's a gift fit for a princess,” said Applejack. “You'll have a hard time beating that when Hearts and Hooves Day rolls around.”

“I'm sure I can come up with something by then,” replied Chase. He kissed Rainbow Dash on the ear.

Dash responded by sticking a sweet roll into his mouth. “I don't know who to thank more,” said Rainbow Dash, “Chase or the jeweler. That Mr. Karat does beautiful work. I guess I should thank Rarity too since she did the design. I just love this. No pony has ever given me anything like this before. I feel like no mare has ever got a better gift.”

“I'm glad it makes you happy,” said Chase. “It was just something I thought would be nice when I picked it up but it means a lot more now.”

Fluttershy, Twilight and Applejack exchanged looks. Spike stared at Rainbow Dash as if she had suddenly sprouted a second head. Hearing that the brash, daring, braggart of a mare actually was capable of such feelings was a new experience for him. His eyes grew larger and his jaw dropped as he watched them kiss.

“Um, Rainbow Dash? Chase? Baby dragon in the room,” said Twilight.

“Sorry,” said Chase, breaking away from Dash.

“Yeah, sorry,” said Dash though she could barely keep a straight face. “Listen, Chase, if you're finished eating, we should head over to Carousel Boutique and see Rarity.”

“Sure, Rainbow, let's go” said Chase. “Thanks a lot for breakfast Twilight, Spike. Are you coming to the train station to see me off?”

“Of course,” answered the purple unicorn. “we all are.”

“I'll give you a hoof with your bags too,” said Applejack. “We may as well take them now and head to Rarity's and then you can go straight to the train station from there.”

“Thanks AJ,” said Dash, “just watch yourself, those bags are heavy.”

“If you pegasuses can handle them then so can I,” said Applejack.

* * *
Applejack took one of the heavier bags while Chase gave his satchel to Twilight and took the other large bag himself. They left the library and headed to Carousel Boutique. They walked in and were greeted by Rarity who was with a customer. Two other customers were browsing the racks.

“Oh hello Rainbow Dash, I'm very busy today but feel free to look around,” said Rarity.

“It's okay, Rarity,” said Dash, “I'm just looking today and I know where you keep what I'm looking for.”

“Alright then dear...oh my is that Chase's star you're wearing?” said Rarity in awe. “Oh that is just fabulous.”

“You should know,” said Dash, “you designed the setting. You did a great job too. I wanted you to see it before Chase left and thank you myself. Isn't it great?”

Rarity and the customers all came over to look at Rainbow Dash's new jewelry. They oohed and aahed over it while Dash did her best cool poses. The customers all offered their congratulations which Dash accepted gracefully. Rarity is somewhat taken aback by this, wondering if Chase had actually told Rainbow Dash what the star was really made of and had proposed. Her customers went back to their own business and Rainbow Dash searched out the wedding apparel that Rarity always had on hoof.

Rarity had a difficult time keeping her mind on her other business and continually stole glances at Rainbow Dash and Chase. Rainbow's other friends simply stared at the love struck pegasi with stunned expressions as Rainbow Dash tried on veils. She even called Twilight Sparkle over to magically hold up dresses while she admired herself in the mirror.

* * *
After a while Chase's time in Ponyville was running out and it was time to head to the train station. Rarity was unable to break away from her shop so Chase said goodbye to her and thanked her once more for her help. Rainbow Dash and her friends then headed for the train station. They arrived with ten minutes to spare and Chase checked his bags. Moments later Pinkie Pie arrived with a box of baked goods for Chase to take with him.

“I was afraid I was going to miss you!” said the pink pony. “I came here but you weren't here so I went to Twilight's and you weren't there and I went to the market but they said you left so I went to Rarity's and you weren't there and now I'm back here.” She collapsed, barely missing the box she brought for Chase.

“Sorry Pinkie,” said Dash, “we were expecting to meet you here. We didn't think you'd be chasing us all over town.”

“It's okay,” said Pinkie as she bounced back to her hooves. “I made it in time. This is for you Chase. I didn't want you to go hungry on your trip home.”

“Thanks Pinkie, you didn't have to do that,” said Chase.

“Sure I did,” said Pinkie, “it's my last chance to get you to smile.”

“Well, for a while anyway,” said Chase, “but I'll be back someday.” He did smile then.

“I'll bet I know why,” said Pinky Pie, “you're going to come back to see Dashie.”

“I won't take that bet,” said Chase. “Maybe next time I can get Rainbow to get on the train with me.”

“Oh nononono,” said Pinky, “you're not taking our Dashie away. You'll have to go through me first.”

“Pinky Pie,” said Rainbow Dash, “it would be my decision, not yours. And I might get on the train.”

Pinky Pie looked sad.

“But I'm not going today,” added Dash quickly.

Pinky Pie brightened immediately. She was about to speak when the conductor called out 'All aboard!'

“Guess it's time to say goodbye, Rainbow,” said Chase.

“Yeah,” said Rainbow Dash sadly. “I'm going to miss you.”

“I'm going to miss you too,” said Chase, “it feels like I've known you a lot longer than five days.”

The two pegasi hugged each other with both wings and hooves as they kissed one another goodbye. The conductor called again.

“Rainbow?” said Chase.

“Yeah,” said Rainbow.

“Put on your poker face,” Chase whispered.

Chase pulled away from Rainbow Dash and walked to the train. With a final wave he got on.

Rainbow Dash stood there looking glum and a bit lost. Her friends came over to her and Applejack put a hoof on her shoulder. The train began to pull away from the platform. Suddenly Chase burst through the door on the last car.

“Rainbow! Rainbow!” shouted Chase, “Come with me! We can make a life together in the skies of Manehatten! Come with me! I can't live without you!”

Chase carried on shouting as the train built up speed and got further away. Rainbow Dash took a few steps away from her friends. She was shaking and was beginning to get tears in her eyes. Her friends thought it was because Chase was leaving but the real causes were her trying to keep from laughing and the pain in the lip that she was biting.

The train had passed the end of the platform and Chase's voice was fading. Suddenly Pinky Pie sprang into action.

“I can't take it anymore!” shouted the pink pony. Seizing Rainbow Dash, Pinky Pie raced down the platform ignoring the protests from the blue pegasus. She reached the end of the platform, reared up and hurled Rainbow Dash towards the train. It was an impressive toss but was woefully short of her goal. Fortunately, Rainbow Dash was able to catch herself with her wings and avoided the ground.

Chase was stunned and stood gaping on the edge of the last car. He saw Rainbow Dash recover and wave to him. He waved back and returned to his seat. The passengers stared and moved away from the pegasus stallion who laughed raucously half the way to Manehatten.

* * *
When Rainbow Dash recovered from her unexpected flight, she spun and flew back to Ponyville as fast as she could. She entered the library and collapsed on the floor in laughter. She laughed so hard that no more sound came out and she was reduced to wheezing and shaking on the floor. Her slower friends found her in the same state a few minutes latter.

“Rainbow! Are you alright?” asked Twilight. Her voice was full of concern.

Rainbow Dash wanted to answer, to tell her friends she was fine, but all she could manage to do was sputter, cry and pound on the floor.

“She's really taking it hard,” said Fluttershy. “It's okay Dashie, just let it out.”

Rainbow Dash did let it out, a long rolling peel of laughter. She pounded on Twilight's floor and rolled around unable to stand.

Applejack was the first to catch on. “We've been pranked.” She threw her hat on the floor.

Twilight planted a hoof below her horn and grimaced. Pinkie Pie started laughing herself and Spike did too. Fluttershy looked like she was about to give Rainbow Dash 'The Stare' when Rarity burst in.

“Rainbow Dash! Are you and Chase getting married?” she gasped out.

Rainbow Dash lapsed back into her shaking gasping for air form of laughing. Applejack snickered and joined Pinky Pie and Spike in laughing. Fluttershy began to laugh behind her hoof. Even Twilight gave in and chuckled.

“Rarity, it seems that Rainbow Dash and Chase have been having a little fun with us,” said Twilight.
“Alright Rainbow Dash, time to come clean. What were you two up to?”

When Rainbow Dash had recovered enough to talk she began to explain what had happened. “I'm sorry girls,” said Dash, “but it was totally worth it. We knew the whole town was talking about us, including you, so we decided to get a little payback by playing along. I'm not saying everything we did was fake because we really do like each other, maybe even more than like, but the clip that Chase gave me does look like an engagement gift and so we just made it look like we're engaged.”

“What about all that stuff Chase did at the train station?” asked Pinky Pie. “That looked real.”

“The goodbye was real,” said Rainbow Dash, “but all that stuff that Chase did from the train...ha ha ha... that was fake. I still can't believe he did that.”

“I guess all that browsing in my shop was fake too,” said Rarity. “That's ...disappointing.”

“Sorry Rarity,” said Dash, “but when we saw you had customers that would spread the gossip all over town, we couldn't resist. I meant what I said about how much I like my clip though, it's just beautiful.”

“I guess you're forgiven then,” said Rarity. “I do expect you to come to my shop when Chase does pop the question.”

“Yeah, sure thing Rarity,” said Rainbow Dash. She hung her head. “I need to tell you all something. He offered to quit his job and move to Cloudsdale with me.”

“Really?” gasped Twilight, “you're serious? What did you tell him?”

“Yeah, he was serious,” said Dash. “I told him I might but not yet. I can't do that until we get to know each other better.”

“Did he mean move in together in Cloudsdale or just move to Cloudsdale?” asked Rarity.

Rainbow Dash hesitated. “I..I don't know. I didn't ask.”

“What would you do there?” asked Pinky Pie.

“We could both get jobs,” said Dash. “He has the experience and a great position in Manehatten now. I'm a team leader too, even if my team isn't very big. I'm such an awesome flier anyway that I could get a job, no problem.”

“Why didn't you go with him to Manehatten?” asked Pinky Pie. “I gave you a good start and you could have caught that train.”

“I told you I'm not ready for that,” said Dash. “I don't want to go to Manehatten anyway. I told him the only place I'd move to was Cloudsdale.”

“He could move here,” suggested Fluttershy.

“He doesn't want to. Besides, what could he do in Ponyville?” said Dash. “He's a weather pony. He doesn't want to work for me and I'm not giving him my job. It wouldn't work. I just wanted to let you know that if we decide to take the next step, I'll be leaving.”

“You do what you have to do to be happy RD,” said Applejack. “It ain't like Cloudsdale is that far away.”

“Besides, I always thought you'd be going to Cloudsdale sooner or later anyway,” said Rarity. “Of course I thought it was because you'd be joining the Wonderbolts, not because of a stallion.”

“I'm glad you understand,” said Dash. “I felt I had to tell somepony, you know, just in case.”

“So you aren't sure yet?” asked Twilight.

“It's still too soon,” said Dash. “I think it will be good for us to stay apart for a few weeks. If we still feel the same when we meet up again, maybe then we'll know what's best for us. It's hard though, I miss him already. You know what Pinky? I almost did fly after that train.”

“We're here if you need to talk,” said Twilight, “but please don't prank us like that again.”

“Yeah,” said Pinky Pie, “prank everypony else and let us in on it.”

Dash laughed. “Deal. I have a favor to ask, Twilight. Can you keep my hair clip here? Maybe put it in the case with my element? If I drop it at my home in the wrong place, it will fall through the floor and I don't want anything to happen to it.”

Sure, Rainbow Dash,” said Twilight, “I can do that.”

“Great, help me take it off,” said Dash, “I have to go on patrol in a hour.”

“I thought Mr. Karat was using special clips so you could fly with it on,” said Rarity.

“He did,” said Dash, “but I'm not taking any chances. I've never had a gift like this. I wouldn't trade this for anything even if it's just some crystals.”

Rarity smiled at Twilight and winked when the purple unicorn glanced her way. Twilight levitated the clip over to the case containing the Elements. She opened the case and placed the clip inside the circle made by the Element of Loyalty. She closed the case and stepped back. Rainbow Dash stood beside her and looked at the case. Her eyes teared up a bit and she sniffed.

“You know, I was lucky to go on that adventure,” said Rainbow Dash, “and not just because I got to know Chase. I got to go back to the place of our first victory as Element bearers. It was really weird to walk around there. It was empty but it was like I could see where you all stood and what you each said. I knew which stones I brought down and which ones Fluttershy carried. I hadn't thought about it in a long time. It made me feel really good. If you ever get the chance, go back and have a look around. At least take the time to think about what we did that day.”

Her friends looked at her. It seemed so unlike Rainbow Dash to get emotional. They wondered what was bringing this to the surface of their usually brusk friend.

“I haven't thought about it in a while,” said Twilight Sparkle. “Things just keep happening and we've moved on and grown since then. I'm not as much proud of that night as I am relieved. Before we faced Nightmare Moon I didn't have any friends except for Spike. Realizing you five were my friends and that I wasn't alone was such a relief. You're right Rainbow Dash, we should take time to remember what happened that night.”

“Maybe we should form a pact to meet up the day after the Summer Sun Celebration every year,” said Rarity.

Great idea Rarity,” said Applejack. “Every year, no matter where we are or what we're doing, we meet up somewhere.”

“We can make it a party!” said Pinky Pie. “Our own special friends forever party. Year after year.”

“Of course it will be a party,” said Rainbow Dash, “if you're there, it has to be a party. Listen, I have to go get ready for my patrol. I'll see you all later.”

Rainbow Dash left the library with a smile on her face. Her mood was much brighter even though Chase was gone. The same could not be said for her friends, with the exception of Pinky Pie. Her happiness could not be repressed by anything Rainbow Dash had said. As far as she was concerned everything was back to normal and they had gained a new holiday.

“I think things are going to change,” said Fluttershy quietly, “but it's okay, I guess.”

“Yes, they are,” said Rarity. “I thought I would be the first to wed but it looks like Rainbow Dash is faster once again.”

“They aren't getting married yet,” said Applejack, “but I reckon you'd better get a move on if ya want to beat her.”

Fluttershy smiled at her friends. “I don't mind, as long as Dashie is happy. It just sounded almost like she was saying goodbye and she wanted to be sure we remembered her.”

“Now that's just morbid,” said Spike. “She's the only one who's been back to the place where you all discovered you're the Elements of Harmony and she wanted you to remember how great it was. She told you how good it was to be there again and what it meant to her. There's no reason to get all sad about it.”

“Spike is right,” said Twilight, “just because she found somepony special is no reason to be sad.”

“Yeah, I mean, if it was me, I'd want you all to be happy for me,” said Applejack. “Sure it won't be the same as it was but who knows? It might be even better.”

“Spikey is right,” said Rarity, “and so are you Applejack. It might be even better. Can you imagine Rainbow Dash with a foal?”

“Oh Celestia,” said Applejack, “what if it's faster than her? Hee hee.”

“I think Rainbow Dash would be a great mother,” said Fluttershy. “She is the Element of Loyalty. She would do anything for her foal and her stallion.”

Twilight nodded her head. “Looks like we've got this all figured out. I think it's called living.”

* * *
Rainbow Dash returned to her home and ate a light lunch. She took the blanket from the bed Chase had used and intended to put it in the basket with the rest of her wash. Instead she found herself laying on her bed clutching it between her hooves with her head buried in it. It smelled of him. She rested there for what she felt was too short of a time when there was a knock at her door. She rose and grabbed her goggles. Time for a patrol.

Rainbow Dash was not surprised to find her entire weather team on her porch. “Anything to report?” she asked Thunderlane.

“Nothing important,” said Thunderlane, “just a few scattered clouds to the far southeast. Might not even be worth a patrol this afternoon.”

“I'll be taking it out anyway,” said Dash, “just in case. You went west to east?”

“Yep,” said Thunderlane, “and Flitter led. She did well. Of course there wasn't much to do but she steered a good course and stayed on schedule.”

“Good,” said Dash, “we'll do this again when we actually have some weather to deal with. It's good that you're all here. As you can see, I'm still here. Chase left on the morning train for Manehatten. To answer some questions you might have, no we are not engaged, yes we are still seeing one another, yes we were seen in public looking like a couple of love-struck foals. We also spent every night that Chase was here under the same roof. I said roof, not in the same room and not in the same bed. The rest of the town is going to be talking about our 'affair' for weeks and virtually everything you hear about us will be wrong. Let them talk. Don't add any fuel to the fire but don't correct them either. Chase and I decided to have a little fun with the gossips so leave them alone. We'll take care of them in due time.”
There were several chuckles from the team.

“I guess we should tell the part timers, right?” asked Cloudchaser.

“Oh, yeah,” replied Dash, “it's okay to let them in on it. The other elements know about it also, just so you know.”

“What are you going to do?” asked Thunderlane.

“I'm not sure yet but I'm working on it,” said Dash. “I guess if worst comes to worst, I'll just have to marry him.” This brought a chorus of laughter from the weather team.

“Okay, Cloudchaser,” said Dash, “lead us out.”

* * *
The patrol was uneventful and Cloudchaser got them back on time. Rainbow Dash felt more confident that her team could function without her for a few days. She went to Twilight's and had a pleasant supper with her and Spike. Twilight pushed a book on her as she left and she took it home. She plopped down on the bed and looked at the title. “Dating for Beginners by Dr. Wild Oats?” said Rainbow Dash aloud. “Funny Twilight, you're a riot. Nerd.” She tossed the book onto a nearby shelf. With the only pony she wanted to date being miles away, the last thing she wanted to do was read about it.

She went downstairs and did her schedules for the next day. It was still early so she did the next two days as well. The part time ponies were coming into the rotation now and she wanted to get a good look at them in case Slipstream really did transfer to Manehatten. She was still a bit miffed about that. Maybe she'd change her mind if she got to spend a few days there on the exchange program.
It was still too early for bed so Dash took a flight around Ponyville. She flew high so she wouldn't be noticed. Twenty laps later she was still flying strong but noticed the clock tower chiming eleven o'clock. Maybe she could fall asleep now. She flew back to her home and went to bed.

Chase's blanket was still on her bed. Rainbow Dash lay down and covered herself with her own blanket. Sleep eluded her so she reached out for Chase's blanket and used it for a pillow. She tried to close her eyes. “It's going to be a loooong three weeks,” she thought.

Chapter 20

Somehow Rainbow Dash made it through the morning shift. Thunderlane took the afternoon patrol. Dash decided to visit Zecora to see how the feather potion had turned out. It wasn't much of a flight to Zecora's tree in the Everfree Forest. She felt sorry for earth ponies and unicorns; it took them forever to get anywhere but then she felt that way at least two or three times a day. She landed in front of Zecora's home and knocked on the door.

The zebra opened the door. “Ah! Rainbow Dash my flying friend,” said Zecora, “I have the potion for you to send.”

“I thought I might try it out first,” said Rainbow Dash. “I have some broken and missing feathers too.”

“Let me use it on you now, you can write Chase and tell him how,” said Zecora.

Zecora carefully dabbed the potion onto Dash's broken and missing feathers. It tingled and there was a slight burning sensation but it wasn't too bad. It worked quickly and soon her wings were restored. She was delighted and thanked Zecora. Her elation was short lived. Rainbow Dash yawned and shook her head, a frown returned to her face.

“I see that you are looking sad, did my potion hurt that bad?” Zecora sounded concerned.

“Sorry, no, it was fine,” said Dash. “I'm just a little down right now, that's all. Not getting enough sleep either.”

“I think you are missing your new friend Chase, just nod your head if this is the case,” said the zebra.

Rainbow nodded. “We spent a lot of time together, and we really like each other but we can't take it farther right now. We live in different towns and we have careers and dreams we don't want to give up. I...I think we're in love. He even said he'd quit his job and move to Cloudsdale if I would too.”

Zecora gazed at Rainbow Dash thinking about what she had said. “I think the way you're going is wise, you must be careful when it comes to guys. I know resisting can drive you nutty, it's not fun when you're feeling rutty.”

“Huh?” said Dash, shocked at the zebra's frankness, “I mean, yeah, it is frustrating. It will be even worse in three weeks when we go to Cloudsdale for a meeting.”

“You would like things to progress I sense,” said Zecora with a knowing look, “it would be better if you were not tense.”

“Um...yeah,” said the puzzled pegasus. “You have a potion to make me less tense?”

“What I meant to say is that there is a cure, it lets you make you less tense, that's for sure.” Zecora smiled.

“Okay, now I'm getting confused,” said Dash, “how does it work?”

“There is a way for you and Chase to relieve your frustration,” said Zecora, “it just takes the proper medication.”

“I don't know,” said Dash, “can you explain it more? I know what would relieve our frustration but I don't want to risk it.”

“You wish to make the boom, without a foal growing in your womb?” asked Zecora.

“What?!” exclaimed Dash.

“With your stallion you wish to lay, a foal is a price you won't have to pay,” said the zebra.

“You can do that?” Dash said in a whisper.

Zecora went to a shelf and returned with a small bottle. “Drink this the day before Chase you meet, you two can make out for at least a whole week.”

Rainbow Dash reached out for the vial with both front hooves. “Gimme! Take my bits! Rainbow Dash want! You make more!”

Zecora laughed. “Five bits for the potion that makes feathers to fly in the sun and seven more so you and Chase can have some fun.”

Rainbow Dash paid Zecora and placed the potions in her satchel. “Thanks Zecora,” she said, “Sure wish I could see Chase before the meeting.”

“Why not send him a letter, that might make you feel better,” said Zecora.

“Great idea, Zecora,” said Rainbow, “I have to send him this potion anyway.”

Rainbow Dash left Zecora's hut and flew back to her home to write her letter. She packed the feather potion and addressed it to Chase. On the outside of her letter she wrote 'open this when you are alone.'

“Three weeks,” thought Dash. “Only three weeks.” She checked a day off on her calandar and headed for the post office.