The road to Hell

As Dash headed out to the field, it was a beautiful day to race, no clouds in sight, sun beaming down, and as still as the wind on the moon, she saw her buddy Gilda warming up, doing some stretches at the far side of the track, Dash kept down, hiding her face from the Griffon, keeping out of sight, Gilda had improved, and as much as Dash hated to say it, she was better than her, Dash hated coming to terms with the fact that she- the top flyer in Ponyville......or maybe in the whole of Equestria , was going to be beaten by a lion-bird! This could not happen, NO WAY! she had to win, for the girls, and for her pride.

She sneaked off of the field, and made her way to Zacoras hut, deep in the Everfree forest, she knocked on the door.....no reply, she knocked again, this time more firmly, a shout came from within "Quiet down and come inside, tell me Dash, why are you scared of loosing your pride?"Dash was shocked, how did she know it was her "Erm....thank you!" she pushed the door open, it made an annoying noise, like a drowning kitten
"Whats up with your door?" asked Dash
"The woodworm have come and eaten away, they shall not be leaving today." Zacora replied, Dash shrugged one shoulder,

"Tell me Dash, why so blue, the race is set, for Gilda and you." Zecora said, staring deeply into Dashes eyes

"I wont be able to win." Dash declared " But if i don't, I will let every pony down. I wont be the amazing Rainbow Dash, i'll just be Dash." she said glumly
"Its not just about the winning, young mare, taking part, that's why the ponys care." she nodded,
She looked around her shelves, as little bottles tingled and crashed as they were put aside on the shelf, she returned with a jar, it was small, about the size of a mouse on its hind legs, it had a droplet of crimson red liquid in it, it looked like blood "Whats that?" Dash asked, inspecting the jar,
" If confidence is what you desire, than take this potion, its as red as fire." She said, then turned and opened the door "Goodbye my young mare, remember to take care." Dash walked out, than Zacora closed the door
"Well, that was no help! I don't need confidence, I need speed." Dash walked back out of the Everfree forest, and headed towards the track, the race had not yet began.