The Biggest Racetrack

Chapters

Prologue: My Dream
Chapter 1: Lighting the Fuse
Chapter 2: The Trials of Friendship
Chapter 3: Forgiveness and Love
Chapter 4: Day One (Part One)
Chapter 5: Day One (Part Two)
Chapter 6: Two's a Crowd
Chapter 7: A Minor Setback

Prologue: My Dream

Created and written by: Flutterguy 12

Prologue:

I love to stargaze. It’s my favorite hobby. Looking at those bright, shining, auroras of light just envelopes me with a warm feeling of purity and freedom.

I guess it’s only natural for me to feel the need for freedom, being a full-fledged Pegasus and all. Always flying and soaring high above the ground. I guess it’s also natural for me to want to go to great lengths to seek out this freedom and wash myself in it like a hot, relaxing, bath.

Of course, this might lead to great adventures, but that’s an added bonus. I’ll never turn down the chance to venture into the unknown to seek out what I want. It’s part of my persona. I’m a lot like Daring Do, the strong, intelligent, and cunning main character of the Daring Do book series.

Ever since I was a filly, I hoped with all my heart I would get the chance to explore the deep and wide expansions of space, soaring above and beyond the stars. I would dream of conducting long, treacherous, crusades in space, leading to Celestia-knows-where. I wished to be out there, free as a bird, with a careless and relaxed attitude forever more.

My feelings are not shared with my friends, however. They have different opinions. Fluttershy, of course, described space as “too dark and scary” for any exploration. Applejack seemed she could care less about it, for she is “too caught up in work and family” to deal with the idea. Rarity is terrified of space because, according to her, “black is a horrid color, and I would die if I was surrounded by nothing but black for so long.” Pinkie Pie also did not think my idea to be relevant, and stated that “It would be awfully hard for anypony to throw a party out there.” Even Spike had a problem with my logic, stating that “There would be nothing to do” and that it would be “extremely boring.”

Me? I view space as the biggest racetrack ever. Think about it, it’s endless. You could race forever out there. Kind of like NASCAR, only better, and will most definitely last longer than two hundred laps.

It seems that the only other pony who even remotely comes to terms with my ideals is Twilight Sparkle. She says that she’s “always had an interest in space” and “a curiosity of what could be out there to discover.” But she also claimed that “some mysteries are better to be left unsolved.”

No. That’s the exact reason why mysteries are there. They just wait for us to solve them, like a newly gained puzzle. And if there’s one thing to know about me, it’s that when I start a puzzle, I intend to complete it. No matter the cost. No matter how long it takes. I will finish that puzzle.

Our planet is just a mouse trap, and it’s got me caught. I loathed that fact, hated it entirely. This couldn’t go on. I needed to fix this ASAP. Change is always taking place, but this time, it just needed a little nudge to help it along.
I proceeded to have another chat with Twilight, to concur if there really is a way to reach space.

I hope there is.

Chapter 1: Lighting the Fuse

Books, books, and more books. Some about magic, some about history, and others about the adventures of fictional characters.

Every time I enter Twilight’s humble tree house of a library, I am barraged by the sight of hundreds and hundreds of books. Books on the shelves, books on the floor, on tables, desks, stands, and chairs.

Even so, it’s usually organized chaos. As the egghead of the group, Twi’ always has her books arranged in some kind of logical order. This was different though. This time, it’s utter disaster. Not only are there books sprawled out in random places across the span of the library, but they are accompanied by magazines, catalogs, newspapers, and other articles of writing that Twilight doesn’t normally take a liking to.

Immediately knowing something was wrong, I call out to Twilight. “Twilight is everything okay?” No response. “Twilight?”
I hear some rummaging coming from the far left corner of the room. It’s faint, but there is clearly movement near the furthest bookshelf away. “Twilight?” I say a bit softer.

Slowly but surely, I inch towards the bookshelf. As I draw nearer, I notice all of the books on the shelf, and the floor around the shelf, have something to do with love and relationships. It is extremely unlikely of Twilight to be researching on something of that nature, no offense to her.

To my left is the shelf, and to my right is an enormous pile of books, probably able to fit two adolescent ponies in its core. Out of nowhere, the books top of the book pile fly into the air, and out pops Spike where the books used to be.

“Whoa!” I yelp in surprise. “Oh, sorry Rainbow Dash,” says Spike wholeheartedly. “I didn’t know you were here. Although I did hear somepony talking a second ago, but I thought it was only Twilight.”

“It’s alright, Spike,” I say, accepting his apology. “You didn’t mean it.” My mind turns back to the thought of all of those love books. “Hey Spike?” I ask. “What’s with all of these books? I never thought Twilight had so many about….that sort of thing.” Spike’s face immediately turns red and he starts fidgeting around with his foot as he proceeds with his response, “Actually…their mine.”

This is not at all a surprise to me. I and every other pony know that Spike has a huge crush on Rarity, except for Rarity herself. I guess he’s just trying to find some advice on dating or something. Although it does seem that he went a little overboard with the searching. Wait….of course he did! Rarity’s birthday is next week! He’s trying to figure out what to give her! Awww, that little rascal!

“EEEEEEEKK!” I hear somepony screaming. Spike and I turn around, now viewing the source of the noise that had torn our ears to shreds. It’s Twilight Sparkle, her face containing a look of a mixture between complete shock and maniacal rage, standing in the entrance, the door wide open. It seems that she has just returned from an errand, for there are bags on the floor containing food items. She must have dropped them from her mouth after her sudden yelp she had emitted.
“What…did…you…do…to…my…LIBRARY?!?” Twilight hollers in blazing fury, seeing the room cluttered with unorganized books and papers. “She did it!” Spike quickly says, pointing to me as the perpetrator. “What? No! Why would I do this? It was Spike!” I retort.

Twilight, now with a look of confusion, looks from Spike, to me, then back to Spike. She then eyes the many books on the floor near us. It seems like she is observing the subject of each book. After a few seconds, she looks like she definitely knows who had done the deed.

“Yes, Spike, why would Rainbow want to do this? I’m pretty sure she doesn’t want to read anything to do with love right now. But I think YOU do,” says Twilight with an interrogation-like style. Spike turns from looking afraid to defeated, knowing he was caught. “I’m sorry Twilight, but I really need to decide what to get Rarity for her birthday.” I knew it. “It’s only a week away, and I still haven’t come up with anything good…,” Spike says solemnly.

“Listen, Spike,” Twilight starts, “I understand that you care for Rarity very much, but that doesn’t mean you have the right to make trouble for another pony for your own gain.” Spike seems to understand and lowers his head in shame. Knowing he needs some comfort, I place my hoof on his shoulder to get his attention. “Everypony makes mistakes, Spike,” I begin, “The important thing is that you learn from it. Here, let’s help Twi’ clean up.”

Twilight uses her magic to reorganize the fallen books back onto their respective shelves, and Spike and I throw away the unimportant garbage, like the newspapers and magazines that Twi’ doesn’t want or need. It takes about ten minutes in all, but we get it done. The magic certainly helps. No doubt it would’ve taken much longer without it.

Spike, feeling satisfied with his work and need to make up for his folly, retreats to his room, probably to catch some Z’s after his long day of ‘studying’.

Finally, I’m able to ask the question that led me here in the first place. “Hey Twilight?” I ask. “Yes?” replies Twi’. “Is it possible to travel to space?”

Twilight just stood there, a look of complete surprise on her face.

Chapter 2: The Trials of Friendship

Twilight looks dumbfounded, almost paralyzed. After a good twenty seconds of standing there, staring at each other, and doing nothing except looking confused (Twilight because of the question I asked, and I because of Twilight’s strange reaction to my question), I decide to be the first to break the extreme awkwardness of the situation, “Twilight, are you feeling okay?” She shakes her head, snapping herself out of the mysterious trance that must have suddenly fallen over her, and replies with, “Yeah, I’m fine. I’m just a little shocked at the question you asked me.” “Yeah, I can tell,” I retort with a slight hint of sarcasm. “So...,” I continue, “Is it possible?”

“To be perfectly frank with you, I have no idea,” Twilight says, clearly looking for an answer in her head, unsuccessfully finding one of course. “Never in my life have I thought about actually being there,” she concludes.

“C’mon, you’re Twilight Sparkle, head pupil to Princess Celestia and the smartest mare in Ponyville; you have to have some sort of theory on how to get there!” I say, trying to fill Twilight with the urge to fulfill her potential and instigate a challenge.

Her facial expression leads me to believe my ruse worked, but then she asks the inevitable question of, “Why in the world would you want to know, anyway?”

Great. Now I have to go through this speech again. Well, it’s for a good cause. After explaining the whole spiel of, “I feel trapped in this world,” and, “I want to be free,” she seems to understand where I’m coming from.

“You’re argument seems valid to me. I understand you and your ways,” states a convinced Twilight. “But I do know one thing about traveling to space that might upset you a bit. You are not able to stay there for a great deal of time. If out in space for too long, you’re food and air supply may run short, and since actually flying into space with no source of air would kill you, you would have to stay in some kind of compartment for the whole trip, and you might contract cabin fever.”

That hit me. Hard. The whole reason I want to go to space is to be free of restraints and enclosed areas. But of course, I just had to get my hopes up, even though I knew absolutely nothing about space. Now I’m being told that there is no air in space, so I can’t roam freely. At all. Now I don’t know what to do. Part of me is saying “Don’t do it, it is way too dangerous,” but the other part, which usually wins out, is saying, “YOU ARE RAINBOW DASH. You’re not just going to let it go, are you? You started this puzzle, now it’s time to finish it. No matter the cost.” Once again, my adventurous side persuades me to continue my conquest into space.

“I don’t care,” I reply to Twilight, “Being in space has been my dream for too many years. If I don’t fulfill it, the thought will consume me, and hack away at me for the rest of my life. I need to do this.”

Twilight nods and says, “If that’s how you feel, I make it my duty to help you achieve your goal in any way possible. I will need some time to think, so be patient with me. I’ll do all of the scientific research and construction of anything you need.”
“Oh, thank you thank you thank you thank you THANK YOU!” I holler in absolute joy. “It’s no problem, Rainbow. I’ll do anything for a friend,” Twilight reassures me, “But there is something I need you to do in order to be prepared. “Of course, anything,” I assure her. “I know you’re in great shape already, but you need to make yourself as fit as possible,” Twilight proceeds, “That means working out for at least two hours every day until it’s time for departure into space. It’s tough out there, so strength and endurance are necessities. Is that clear?” “Crystal,” I reply.

It’s not like working out will be a problem for me. I work out every day, if you count flying as an exercise. If you ask me, this should be a cinch. I just hope this whole project doesn’t take too long. I’m a patient pony…when I want to be…okay, yeah, I’m probably the least patient pony in Equestria. But, it’ll be ready when it’s ready. I just hope I don’t die of anticipation.

“How long do you think it will take?” I ask Twilight. “I have no idea, but it will definitely take at least six months, perhaps longer.” When she says this, something in me must have broken. Not my heart, not my mind…my sanity.
“WHAAAAAAAAAAT?!?” I scream in anger without thinking, “I CAN’T WAIT THAT LONG! SIX MONTHS?!? I THOUGHT YOU WERE SMART! I THOUGHT YOU COULD GET IT DONE IN NO TIME, BUT APPARENTLY NOT! YOU’VE DONE SO MANY OTHER THINGS, BUT YOU CANT FIGURE OUT HOW TO SIMPLY GO UP WITHOUT IT TAKING AN ETERNITY?” I instantly regret what I said. Twilight looks immensely hurt by these statements. She starts to retreat towards her room, her head held low, and an immense wave of shame and guilt washes over me.

“Oh my gosh, I am sooo sorry!” I quickly apologize running over to meet her, “I didn’t mean that! Not at all! I just blurt things out sometimes…” Twilight doesn’t look at all convinced, but just the slightest hint of forgiveness appears in her expression, and I take the opportunity to exploit it, “Twilight, you know I didn’t mean that. You’re the most intelligent mare in Ponyville, maybe even Equestria, maybe even the world. Nobody can say you’re not smart, and I’m a fool for doing so. I can’t accomplish half the things you can! Please, you have to believe me when I say that I’m truly, utterly, and sincerely sorry! I promise I’ll never doubt you again! Ever! You’re my best friend, and I feel awful for what I just did. But please, forgive me…”

A few moments go by without a response, until I finally hear the answer that almost stuck a knife through my heart.

“No.”

Chapter 3: Forgiveness and Love

Now it’s my turn to be paralyzed. I can feel the sorrow overtake me like a tsunami. After stating the most sincere and honest apology I have ever given, she still does not forgive me. After contemplating on what to say next, I found myself at a loss for words. Until Twilight chimed in.

“How could I forgive you if I don’t have to? By my standards, you didn’t do anything awful. You just got mad, which isn’t bad, although you could tone it down a bit on the insults, and controlling your anger can be a good thing to learn as well. But it happens to everypony. In addition, that apology just shows me how dedicated you are to our friendship, and for that I thank you. That actually may end up in my next letter to Princess Celestia. And of course I know you didn’t mean to say what you did. I can understand the anticipation you must be going through at this moment. You are my friend Rainbow, and nothing will ever change that.”

I feel my eyes beginning to swell up. I knew what she said about “not having to forgive me” was just her way of trying to be polite. But even so, I’ve never heard Twilight speak to me in such a caring way before. I guess she could see the tears that were about to spill down my snout, for the next thing I know, she pulls me into an embrace I would never forget. This is friendship. This is what it’s about. Love and forgiveness. I’ve never felt quite like this before, but I love it, and accept it.

Knowing she has forgotten all about my outbreak of anger, I pull away from the embrace, and manage to squeak out a “Thank you,” through my sobbing. She nods at me and smiles forgivingly. I feel awful for what I did, so I decided it would be best to stop the whole space expedition. I can’t ask anything of her now. It is not my place anymore.

“You don’t have to help me with my quest, Twilight,” I begin, “My actions deserve consequences, and this is my punishment.”

“Are you kidding?” I hear a surprised Twilight blurt out, “Now more than ever, I want to do everything I can to help you reach happiness. What is life without happiness, and what is happiness without friendship, and what is friendship without friends who are willing to help one another? Nothing. I WILL continue my desire to make you happy, and if you are a good friend, you would let me, because making YOU happy is what makes ME happy.

Now I am REALLY about to lose it, but I hold my tears in as best I can. “You…you really mean it?” I mutter.
“Of course,” Twilight assures me, “It would make me the happiest mare in Equestria!”

“Thank you…so much,” I say, still holding back tears. Little did Twilight know that she just made ME the happiest mare in Equestria.

“It’s getting late, I think it’s time you went home and got some rest, Dashie, for tomorrow marks the beginning of your training. And don’t you worry. Six months will go by in a flash. I promise.”

All I could do was nod my head, and with the most enormous smile I have ever seen on my own face, I trotted out of her tree house, and began the ascent to my home in the clouds.

**********

Bright stars shine their lights throughout the void of space, lighting my way. Planets swirl around me in an eternal dance of color and beauty. I feel myself soaring past them at speeds incomprehensible to any living organism, a rainbow trail appearing behind me, showing the universe where my previous path was. Gravity has no presence or authority over my body. This is what it feels like to fly in space. This is my dream fulfilled. This is my freedom granted.

Out of the endless darkness, a rotating funnel of light materializes to my front, sucking me into its wormhole of nothingness.

And then I wake up.

Tears form in my eyes and I weep quietly to myself, hooves covering my eyes. Why must the universe be so cruel as to grant me this dream? Why must it mock my inability to be free?

But is it really mocking me? Or is it just trying to help me by giving me a glimpse into the future, assuring me that my time will come? My sorrow is replaced by confusion, and then replaced once again, but this time by extreme exhaustion. I glance over at the clock. Three in the morning. What a way to start off these six months.

I just hope every night won’t be like this one. I might kill myself if that happens. No…why would I think like that?

After a few minutes of lying there, I realize that I am too restless to sleep. My thoughts are clouding my mind, and I’ll only get to sleep if I clear them.

I get out of bed and go downstairs to get a late night snack. A full stomach always lets me clear my thoughts. I pour myself a glass of water and make a spinach sandwich. After I gobble it down, my brain seems satisfied, and is finally willing to let me rest.

But before I can head back upstairs, I hear a loud “THUMP,” and my house seems to rumble a bit from the suspected impact. I quickly fly outside, and see a lone, male, Pegasus lying on my cloud of a front lawn. He has dark blue fur with a long, luscious, sleek white mane. Not a bad looking stallion. Judging by his position, he knocked himself into the wall of my house. Pretty clumsy if you ask me. But I still need to see if he’s alright.

“Are you okay?” I say, shaking him around a little to help him regain consciousness.

“Uuuhhhggg, yeah I think so, thanks,” I hear him groan as he gets to his feet, “Wow, I guess I wasn’t paying too much attention to where I was going. Who might you be?”

“I’m Rainbow Dash. I live here. Are you sure you’re okay? You took a pretty good hit, considering my whole house shook.”

“Yeah, I’m really sorry about that. I was studying the night sky, when I saw a shooting star. I got so excited, that I flew in the direction it was going, leading me to your house, and to my unfortunate accident. Anyway, my name is Stargazer. Nice to meet you.”

“Yeah, you too,” I say a little uncomfortably. Stargazer looks alright, but I’m not sure he’s all too bright. He seems very polite, though.

“Well, I guess I better get back home. Keeping track of time really isn’t my thing when I’m studying the stars.” He starts to fly off, but I had a sudden surge of curiosity.

“Wait!” I call out to him. He stops and turns around to face me, a smile on his face. Wow, that smile. It looks so… so… warm… and friendly. I’m so caught up in the moment, he realizes I’m staring at him, and starts to look a little worried.

“Yes?” he says with a hint of concern in his voice. I immediately snap back into reality.

“Oh, right, it’s just… I’ve never seen you around here before. Are you new in Ponyville?

“Uh-huh. I just moved here from Fillydelphia. It’s a nice city, but there’s too much light down there, you can barely see the stars. But in a sleepy town like this, you can practically see the whole galaxy!”

I look up, and I see he was telling the truth. Yes there are stars, but clusters of different colored light can be seen as well. It’s extraordinarily beautiful.

“Well I really should be getting home now,” Stargazer says, “I guess I’ll… see you around?”

“Yeah, I guess so,” I respond, “Bye.” And with that, he takes off into the night. I stood there for a few seconds, admiring his graceful flying. As he disappears, out of sight, I turn around and head back into my house.

As I climb the stairs, my mind starts to wander back to Stargazer. I enter my bedroom and lay down on the mattress, finding a comfortable position to fall asleep in.

Once again, thoughts of Stargazer pop back into my brain, and a grin slowly spreads across my face. I lay there, thinking of him and only him, as I finally find peace in lasting slumber.

Chapter 4: Day One (Part One)

“Bee-beep! Bee-beep! Bee-beep! Bee-beep!” That alarm clock annoys me to death, especially when it’s set to wake me up prior to seven o’clock. “Bee-beep! Bee-beep! Be-” I shut the alarm off and crawl out of bed. After a little while of some very relaxing stretching, I go through my daily morning routine of taking a bath, brushing my mane, etcetera.

After breakfast, it’s time to start training. I gather my workout gear and neatly pack it all in my duffle bag. I head out the door and start flying towards my destination, the Healthy Hooves Athletic Club, or HHAC.

I pass over Sweet Apple Acres on my way there, seeing its almost endless horizon of apple trees. Which reminds me, I didn’t bring a snack for energy! When working out, it’s crucial to have enough energy to last the exercise period, and apples can provide enough quick energy to help me through the day.

Swooping down to ground level, my eyes come upon the huge, red, hulk of a barn belonging to Applejack and her family. Trotting up to the door, I notice Big Macintosh heaving a wagon jammed full of golden yellow apples. He must have just harvested them, for they look deliciously fresh.

“Hey Big Mac!” I greet him, “Nice day isn’t it?”

“Yup,” he responds. It’s strange; the only words I’ve ever heard him say were “yup” and “nope.” Nothing else. On occasion,
I've attempted to break his slightly annoying habit, but try as I might, nothing worked. I guess there are some things you just can’t change, and his speech is one of those things. That’s why I try to phrase my questions and statements so they can be answered with a “yes” or “no”. But back to the point…

“Those apples sure look tasty. Would it be alright if I purchased a few from you?”

“Yyyuup.”

“Awesome!” I reach into my bag and pull out four bits, two for each apple. I hand him the currency, and he exchanges it for two mouth-watering, golden delicious apples. “Thanks!”

“Yyyuup.”

As I turn to fly away, a familiar friendly voice calls from behind me. “Howdy there Rainbow! What brings you here so early in the mornin’?”

I turn to see my friend Applejack, grinning in curiosity as to why I’m here. “Hey, AJ! I just came to buy a couple apples to get myself some energy while I work out at the gym.” I’m really hoping she doesn’t ask why I’m going. I have no interest in talking about it at this moment. Extended conversation will just distract me from my work, so I try to skedaddle as quickly as possible. “Big Mac over here helped me out with that so I guess I’ll be on my way.”

Before I have the chance to go ANYWHERE, Applejack asks the dreaded question. “Huh, that’s the first time I’ve ever heard you were gunna do that. Why the change?”

Well, it’s not like I can lie to my friend. Actually, I could, I’m a fairly good liar. But of course I wouldn’t, I would never do that anypony I cared about. So, I spill the beans. “I’m starting training for space travel.”

I seriously wish I can have a camera right now, because AJ’s face is priceless! She’s just standing there, mouth agape, eyes wide in shock. Alright, she looks genuinely scared now; I think I should explain things a little more before she has a stroke or something. “Applejack, you okay?”

“Huh? Oh, yeah. Wait, did you say space travel?!?”

“Umm…yes.”

“I see…and just how r’ ya plannin’ on doin’ that?”

Being truthful, I have almost no clue. Twilight is doing most of the construction and scientific planning of our project, so I’m left in the dark for now. “I’m not sure,” I reply, a little unsure of myself, “But Twi’ said she would help me, so things can’t be disastrous. I mean, she’s smarter than all of us. She’ll get it done. I know she will.” And I DO know it. But “worried” is still written all over AJ’s face.

“Well, good luck with that, sugar cube. Even though I have my doubts about this, I’m rootn’ for ya. Be careful too, ya hear?”

I didn’t expect such a reassuring response, but I’m thankful for it. It’s glad to know she’s on my side for this, which makes my situation a heck of a lot better to deal with. “I will, thanks AJ.”

I place the apples into my bag and take off towards the HHAC, looking back to wave goodbye to Big Mac and AJ.

**********

“Closed?! What do you mean closed?!?” I wake up at six thirty, I go through all of that packing, I have to explain myself to AJ while picking up perfectly good apples, and now the manager of the HHAC is saying the gym is closed! What else can go wrong?!?

“I’m sorry, ma’am, but the HHAC is closed until further notice. Our chemical sensors are picking up strange readings of methane gas. Now, there might actually be gas, or the sensors maybe on the fritz, but either way, every safety precaution must be taken, even if that means shutting down the facility for some time. So please, make this easy on me. I’ve had a long morning, and I really just want to go home, but I can’t do that until you leave the property.”

Long morning my left flank! He has no idea! But I guess there’s nothing I can do. Without another word, I take off, flying back to my house.

Without warning, a large mass of…something, rams me in my left flank (ironically). Pain shoots up my side, and I start to spiral downward towards the ground, but in an instant I gain control. Looking back to see whoever or whatever struck me, I find a confused Stargazer, whirring his head to try and shake off the massive hit he delivered. He seems to have recovered, and looks up towards the sky, trying to find the person or thing he ran into.

From this vantage point, I can clearly see him in his utter glory as the sun’s rays make his luscious white mane glow and turn pure gold. His cutie mark, a silver telescope, shines brightly and almost blinds me. He looks to be about nineteen years old and in great physical condition, except for his clumsiness of course. Wait, what am I doing? He could’ve killed me!

“What do you think you’re doing?! You could’ve killed me!” I scream aloud.

“I know, I’m so sorry I…wait…it’s you again. Uhh…Rainbow Dash, right?”

“Yeah, that’s my name.”

“Right…wow what a coincidence. First flying into your house, and then you yourself. But as I said, I’m really sorry. It’s just…I heard there was going to be a full lunar eclipse that can be seen very clearly in Galloper’s Commons approximately thirty miles West from here. I was so excited to catch the train, I guess I wasn’t paying very much attention to where I was going. Again.”

“It’s fine, I guess. But you should really try to calm yourself.”

“I know. It’s sort of a habit though. I just can’t not be excited about space! Mysterious, dark, and never-ending space! The feeling I get when I observe it…I just can’t describe.”

Wow. I never knew Stargazer was so enthusiastic about space. Does he share my dream? Does he also have that fiery feeling I get when I think of exploring it? Does he feel trapped here like I do? Does he? “Wow you really love space, don’t you?”

“Oh, more than anything! I love to solve mysteries and explore the unknown, but one thing that has always baffled me is space. It’s like it’s calling me, calling me to solve its riddles, to search its contents, to…to make it my home.”

Unbelievable. He’s just as passionate about space as I am! I don’t understand, I thought I was the only one who feels this way. I guess not. Wait…would he want to…no…no I shouldn’t say anything about it. At least…not yet. “You said something about a place called Galloper’s Commons. It’s funny, I’ve never heard of it before, yet it’s so close.”

“Galloper’s Commons was named a town only two months ago. I’ve been there only once myself, but I am very impressed with the locals’ friendliness. No crimes have been reported there thus far, no murder, arson, robbery, theft, fights; I don’t even think an argument has ever occurred.”

“Wow, sounds like a great place. Perfect, even.”

“It certainly is. And now, a lunar eclipse will be in FULL VEIW there? Can it get any better?”

“Wait, a lunar eclipse? I’ve never seen one before.”

“Really? Never? In that case, you should come with me!”

This statement knocks me off guard and I hesitate to find an answer. On one hand, this guy may be a freak or a maniac and will try to kill me when we get there. On the other, he’s just being nice and offering his hand in friendship. And seeing a full lunar eclipse isn’t a bad thing either. That seals the deal.

“Really? I mean, I don’t want to impose or slow you down…”

“Nonsense! It’s the least I can do for a pony that hasn’t seen one yet. Stick with me, and you will see beauty on an unimaginable scale!”

“Thank you! Thank you so much! This is going to be so cool!” I can hardly contain my excitement. One of the great wonders of space is going to unfold right before my eyes!

“It is no problem, really. I’ll even pay for the train tickets. As I said, it’s the least I can do.”

This had to be the most caring and good-natured stallion in Equestria! First letting me tag along, and now buying my train tickets?! This is great! But I still need to show respect.

“Oh, you don’t have to-”

“But I want to.” he cuts me off and says, “This is your first lunar eclipse, and I want it to be perfect for you!”

There is just no stopping him. He is just one of a kind.

“Well, we better get going,” he starts, “The eclipse is supposed to start in a few hours, and we have to get there before all of the good observation spots are occupied.”

With that, we fly, our heading being the Ponyville Transit Train Station, and two tickets to an evening of utter beauty.

Chapter 5: Day One (Part Two)

Stargazer’s right. Galloper’s commons IS a friendly place to be. Too friendly for my taste. If people are too friendly, their drive for competition disintegrates, and is replaced with a need to feel equal with EVERYPONY. That’s not my style. Not at all.

However, I’m not looking for competition at the moment. I don’t feel the need to show off my skills or brag about how awesome I am. Because now, I’m about to see one of the great mysteries of space take place right above me.

After Stargazer and I departed from the Galloper’s Commons Railway Station, we stopped at a miniscule, but homey restaurant called “The Blue Dragon” for dinner. It was a nice little place, serving small meals such as dandelion sandwiches and tomato salads.

We continue our quest, which takes us to Rosemary Acres, a small, docile, and very hilly prairie located on the outskirts of Galloper’s Commons. This is where the lunar eclipse will be seen at full view.

I have no idea what’s in store for me tonight. As I’ve said, never before have I seen a lunar eclipse. But that’s about to change.

Trotting through Rosemary Acres, my job is to discover a perfect spot to gaze at the magnificent sight we are about to witness. Stargazer is off visiting a friend. He said something about borrowing his friend’s telescope and camping gear or something, and that he would be back soon. So, that leaves me searching for a place to camp for the night.

I stop to look around carefully. There are many ponies here already, and it seems as though the best spots have been taken. Still looking, I turn to my left, and about one hundred meters away stood a great cliff belonging to the only mountain, if it could even be called THAT, in Rosemary Acres. The “mountain” is only about fifty feet high, big, but not huge. This is when I realize where the perfect spot is.

I fly up to the top of the mountain, and perch myself at the edge of the cliff. From here, everything on the prairie is visible. I look up towards the slowly descending sun, and on the opposite side of the planet, the steadily rising moon. A marvelous view. Once the sun goes down and the moon rises, the planet will be right between both of them. The eclipse is closing in. On pure estimation, I would guess there is only an hour before it begins.

But where is Stargazer? He wouldn’t miss this for the world! Feeling worried, I take off and fly around a bit to try and spot him. After at least thirty minutes of frantically searching, I find absolutely no trace of him. Not good.

My mind starts to fill itself with many questions. Is he running late? Will he be here on time? Did he get hurt? Did he ditch me?

As soon as that last question is mentally asked, anger begins to take control of me. Now, completely new questions come to mind. Why would he ditch me? Does he not like me? Did I do something wrong? Is he really that shallow?

I could barely control my emotions, but then, my anger turns to something else. Sorrow. I can’t believe he would do this. WHY would he do this? I actually sort of…like him. And now he’s gone and left me here to wallow in my despair.

And what’s the point of even watching the eclipse now? It just won’t seem as…wondrous…without him being here with me. I don’t know why. He just has some sort of aura about him…I guess I’m just going crazy. I don’t need him. Who said I did anyway? I’m my own pony, and just because I MAY have liked some stallion doesn’t mean I should go ballistic about losing him. There are plenty of others out there…but not like him.

I sigh as the truth seeps in. I LIKE him. I really LIKE him. I haven’t felt this way about somepony since…since…since I don’t know when. But it feels good. It feels like I have something to live for. It feels like…freedom.

Is that it? Is that the answer I’ve been searching for all of this time? Is this what it really feels like to be free? I’ve always thought that space would be the answer to this dilemma, but is it really? Do I really NEED all of that space to feel free? Or do I only need somepony to share life with to REALLY feel free? And BE free.

But are these feelings real? Are they true? Or are they only some pre-mature thought of blind love? Should I really feel this way about him so soon? I just…don’t know…I just don’t know…

Before I could ponder over this any longer, I am blindsided by an unknown force. Well, not really unknown, for there could only be one pony that would do this so randomly.

“Oh, geez, I’m sorry! Are you okay, Rainbow?” says the pony who almost killed me. Again.

“Yeah I’m fine but…Stargazer!” I blurt out once I come to my senses.

“Yes?” he says, clearly confused.

“You…you…” I hesitate mid-sentence, still wondering as to why he is back. But then I realize he didn’t ditch me at all. I can clearly see the large metal object, a telescope, in his hands, and the camping gear on his back. I’m such a foal! How could I let myself believe he DITCHED me? He probably just got caught up at his friend’s house while gathering the gear.

“You…you brought the telescope, I see.” I say, trying to bring up a subject we could talk about.

“Yup, and the camping gear! We’re all set. Oh, and sorry I ran a little late. My friend just LOVES to talk. I swear he could go on for hours without even one breath!”

That certainly reminds me of Pinkie Pie, the energetic, pink, bundle of fun. I wonder what my friends are doing right about now. Eh, I’m sure they’re having a good time, even if I’m not there. It wouldn’t be a party…but they can handle my absence for a little while.

We set up camp, first constructing the tent, placing the sleeping bags inside, positioning the telescope, and finally, laying down the blanket to sit on as we watch the eclipse.

The timing couldn’t be more perfect, for just as we sit down, the show begins. The sun is already completely down, not visible to us on this side of the planet, and now is perfectly aligned with our planet and the moon. On the other hand, the moon can be seen in full view. This is where the magic happens.

As we sit and watch in awe, the moon turns the most beautiful shades of red and orange I have ever seen, this being the reflection of the sun’s rays off the moon’s surface. And it really is magical. Nothing I have ever seen can compare to this.

Stargazer seems to feel the same way. He hasn’t even TOUCHED the telescope, and is just marveling at this unbelievable sight, not believing his own eyes.
It seems like the moon is beckoning me, beckoning me to join it and its glory. I can only imagine myself flying over and around the moon, dancing with it in space for eternity.

This moment is supernatural, astonishing, amazing! It’s…so…so…romantic. I look over to Stargazer, only to find his gaze towards me as well. Our eyes lock, staring at each other and I find myself feeling something…something powerful…could it be?

Is it there? Do I really feel…love? Does HE also feel love for ME? I don’t know what to do, I don’t know what to say, what to think, or what to feel. My mind is racing and becoming all jumbled, I’m trying to come up with something, ANYTHING…but I’m stuck. I’m stuck in a position that I’ve never been stuck in before. More questions pop into my head, making me even more confused than ever.

Do I go for it? Do I make a move? Will he accept it, and return it? Or do I just…let it go…I……I……I can’t. I just can’t. It’s only been two and a half days since I met him. It’s too soon…he doesn’t feel the same way about me. Why would he? I’m just a helpless, desperate, tomboy of a Pegasus. Who would want to love me? Stargazer and I are just friends, and that’s all. Just friends. Nothing more.

‘Nothing more’. Those words bounce all around my head in a never-ending echo. ‘Nothing more’. This is what love is for me, how love will always be for me. I will never know true love.

But then something happens that I would have never expected to happen in a million years. No, something I thought wouldn’t have happened EVER. In one swift motion, Stargazer closes the gap between our lips until there is no space in between, and plants a quick kiss. My body becomes tense, and a quick burst of energy shoots through me, as the impact of what just happened starts to sink in. At first, I am stricken, not sure what to make of the event that just took place. Mixed feelings of confusion, shock, and love swirl around my soul, filling me with an unknown sense.

Stargazer can see my shock, and quickly looks away with expressions of guilt and embarrassment on his face. “I’m sorry…I…I shouldn’t have done that. I’m so stupid! It’s just…I…I really-”

I cut him off mid-sentence by placing my hoof over his mouth. Now it’s my turn to profess my thoughts. “It’s…okay. Really it is. And to be totally honest…I actually…sort of…LIKED it…”

After hearing this, Stargazer is immediately relieved. “Really?” he asks.

“Yeah.” I reply with a tiny bit of excitement in my voice.

We look at each other a moment more, and we realize…we’re in love. Truly, honest to goodness, genuine, love.

After making this stunning revelation, we can’t hold on to our feelings any longer. We both rush our lips forward, intertwining our mouths so that they become one.

There it is again. Freedom. That feeling of total freedom. This IS what it means to truly be free. To truly be happy. To truly love. I was blind before, but now I can see it, plain as day. Love IS freedom. And it took me untill now to realize it.
After the kiss is over, we resume our previous staring session, but this time, with huge smiles on both of our faces.

“That was…amazing.” I say in utter delight.

“I’ll say” Stargazer replies, just as happy.

This is the time. He needs to know what I plan on doing. He deserves it. “Stargazer?” I ask.

“Yes?”

“You love space, right?”

“Yeah, but…” his voice trails off.

“But…” I say, encouraging him to continue. I’m pretty sure I know what’s coming.

“But…not as much as I love you…”

My face is now a tomato, blushing to its fullest extent. Those were the sweetest words a stallion has ever said to me. But another shadow blankets me in its darkness, and more questions appear. Should I say it? Do I REALLY feel this way? I have to be sure, otherwise, the words I might say won’t mean anything, and that wouldn’t be fair. To either of us.

I search my mind, heart, and soul for an answer. I’ve never looked deeper inside myself in all my life. I search and search, but find that something is blocking my path. Something foggy and gray. It’s doubt. Doubt of my feelings, my love, and myself. I need to push through, to destroy this doubt, so I can be as sure as ever that I love Stargazer.

It takes all of my willpower, strength, endurance, and faith. I can feel it dematerializing. I’m winning the fight, the fight for myself. The fog is clearing, there is light shining through. I can almost…there. There it is. The answer. At long last, my questions have been answered. And now I can share these answers.

“I love you too, Stargazer”

And I mean it.

Our passion becomes too hot to handle, and we lean in for another kiss, but this one even longer and more powerful.
I pull away from the kiss, realizing that I became so caught up in the moment, I still haven’t told Stargazer my plans. “Listen, Stargazer. There’s something I need to tell you. I was going to bring it up before, but I was still unsure.”
Stargazer looks confused, but thoughtful. He nods for me to continue.

“You love space, right?”

“Yes”

“Well…so do I…all of my life in fact.”

“Really?”

“Yeah and well…I’m kinda trying to figure out a way to…you know…get there.”

This catches Stargazer completely off guard. “You mean, actually GOING there? Into space?”

“Uh-huh. And I want you to come with me.”

Now the blue and white Pegasus is completely stunned. “Me? Really?” he says with excitement.

“Yup.”

“Wow. Oh wow. That’s…unreal…it’s impossible…yet you say we will…how are we going to do it?”

“Ummm…I’m not…entirely…sure. But my friend Twilight Sparkle is a genius at these sorts of things, and has agreed to help me. In fact, she’s the head pupil to Princess Celestia herself! If there’s anypony alive who can figure it out, it’s her.”

“You do realize that if we pull this off, we could be the most famous Pegasi in all of Equestria, right?”

I never thought of that. I was just doing this to be free, not to be talked about for generations. But it doesn’t hurt to have a little fame going for you.

“Yeah, I guess you’re right,” is my reply.

“I think we should visit this ‘Twilight Sparkle’ you told me about. I’m eager to see what her plans are.”

“Yeah, me to,” I say, mostly to myself, “But that can wait till tomorrow.”

“Of course it can.”

I place my head on his neck, which is surprisingly quite comfortable, and he returns the gesture by placing his hoof around me, holding me close. The moon is still shining its beautiful red and orange colors across Rosemary Acres, glistening like a ruby in the illuminated darkness.

I take a glance at the prairie below us. Countless ponies were still staring straight up, unable to look away from the magnificent sight.

This has been the best night of my life. I can tell that when I grow older, this is the night I will always look back on to keep me feeling young and alive. But that’s for when I AM older. This is happening NOW, at this very moment. And I thank Celestia for allowing me to have it.

As the night drags on, we find ourselves on the verge of sleep. Stargazer lies down, as do I, now resting my head on his chest.

This is perfect. Lying under the stars, watching the eclipse, being in his arms. It doesn’t seem real to me. But I know it is. It definitely is. And I want it to last forever.

But, all good things must come to an end. Both of us are as tired as sleepy dragons, and need to rest. But not before making this moment complete. We kiss once more, softer and shorter this time, but still as loving as before. We separate, and feel our eyelids slowly shutting.

Our final vision before we drift into dreamland is the soft and passionate gaze of each other’s sparkling eyes.

Chapter 6: Two's a Crowd

The name of Stargazer’s friend is Comet. Like Stargazer and I, he takes a liking to space. Although, he usually only watches and researches it. He doesn’t contain that burning in his heart, the need to solve its mysteries. He’s more of a mystery DISCOVERER than a mystery SOLVER. He looks for things that are unexplained, but when he finds them, he leaves it to somepony else to determine what it really means. Somepony like Stargazer.

We returned the camping gear and telescope we used the night before, and went along our way. Stargazer is extremely anxious to get to Twilight’s house. I am too. I have a vital question to ask her.

We once again stopped at The Blue Dragon, for breakfast this time, and two clear platters later, we are aboard the train; destination: Ponyville.

Stargazer and I are already acting like a true couple. Because we ARE a true couple. We held hooves for almost the entire trip back, and it sent my spirit flying. I have no doubt resonating in my mind that we genuinely love each other.

Once the train arrives at our stop, we start towards the library that belongs to the purple, scholarly, unicorn who is currently doing her best to help me reach my ultimate goal.

As we near her tree house, I start to hear voices coming from inside. It sounds like an argument of some sort. We put our ears up to the door to attempt to make out their words. I know eavesdropping is wrong, but something tells me that this conversation is about something major.

“Have you gone bonkers?!” I hear somepony say. It sounds like Pinkie Pie. “Why are you helping her?! She could get herself killed!”

“I must agree with Pinkie. It’s far too dangerous. Who knows what might happen? If a catastrophe occurs…I don’t know what I…what WE would do without her…”

That was definitely Rarity. Her prim and proper voice can be recognized in an instant. Are all of my friends in there? And if they are, what are they talking about? WHO are they talking about? Wait…is it…no it couldn’t be.

“Listen girls, I know you’re worried and upset, but this is Rainbow’s dream. She wants nothing more than to be in space, even if only for a little while, and I’m not going to deny her. And don’t worry. I’m taking every precaution there is to take concerning this. I assure you, nothing will go wrong.” Twilight’s speaking confirmed my suspicions. They ARE talking about me. They are debating on whether or not they should allow me to go to space. Like it’s their choice anyway.

“I…I don’t know…um…well…I just don’t think it’s the best idea is all…” That timid voice belonged to Fluttershy.

Applejack was the next one to pipe up. “It ain’t just a bad idea, it’s a horrible one! It’d be great if she could get there, but the risks ‘r too hagh. Yur the only wun who cn’ stop ‘er, Twi’. Please, don’t let ‘er do this.”

Alright, I need to set this straight. NOW.

I heave the door open, almost breaking it off its hinges, only to see the astonished and startled expressions of my friends’ faces directed at myself and Stargazer. Stargazer stood behind me, a little unsure of what to do. I could tell he was surprised at my action, and didn’t entirely comprehend the situation.

“Alright, what’s going on here?” I ask, even though I clearly know the answer.

The five ponies just looked about at each other, hesitant to speak up.

“Well?”

The first one to speak was the one I expected to answer me first, the bearer of the Element of Honesty.

“Listen, sugar cube. Ah don’ think that this whole…uhh…space thing…is gonna be safe fur ya. Fluttershy, Rarity, Pinkie, an’ I are tryin’ to tell Twi’ here to convince ya to stop.”

What?!? Did Applejack change her mind or something?! Because she told me yesterday that she wouldn’t get in my way! Some honest pony SHE is!

“But yesterday you said-” before I can finish my sentence, AJ cuts me off.

“Ah know wut ah said yesturday. But ah wus wrong. Ah nevur shuld ‘ve said it. Ah’m sorry, Rainbow.

I don’t understand. Are they really so dead set on blocking me like this? Are they really trying to crush my dreams? Are they? Are they?!

A sudden rage overtakes me. Now it’s my turn to speak my mind. And when I do, I don’t hold back.

“Listen up, all of you! Going to space is MY decision! MINE! It’s been my dream since I was only a filly, and NOPONY is gonna steal that dream from me! The only one of you who seems to understand me is Twilight, but if you are my friends, you would too! So fine, try to hold me back! Try to crush my dreams! But it’s not going to work! Ya know why?! Because I-Will-Never-Give-Up! So, are you ponies with me? Or are you against me?”

I gaze at the other ponies. AJ and Rarity exchange a solemn and guilty glance. Fluttershy is on the verge of tears. Pinkie’s hair has straightened out. Twilight looks unfazed, and is the first to respond.

“I’m with you, Rainbow,” she says as she trots over and stands next to me.

The others seem to be deep in thought, but Fluttershy seems to have decided.

“I’m…I’m with you too…if that’s okay…” She mimics Twilight’s action and appears by my side.

I notice Pinkie Pie’s hair returned to its normal, poofy, state, and she seems very confident in herself.

“Why do we dream, Rainbow?” she asks me.

I didn’t really have an answer, for I was a bit confused as to why she asked that question. So, I let her continue.

“We dream to give ourselves hope that someday, that dream will come true. I have lots of dreams! And if some of those dreams aren’t realized, I’ll be devastated. But, we have our friends to help us, and sometimes, we need their help to make them reality. And right now, I can tell you need some help. You’ve been doing everything you could to make your dream come true, and I’m proud. But I’m also ashamed at myself for doubting you, but now I realize what I need to do. I’m with ya!”

As she joins Twilight, Fluttershy, and me, I am in awe. That was one of the most inspiring things I have ever heard Pinkie say. Maybe THE most inspiring thing I’ve ever heard her say. And now she’s on my side.

That leaves AJ and Rarity.

“You know what? Pinkie’s right. If my dream of being a fashionista didn’t come true, I’m not sure where I’d be right now.”

And with that, Rarity joins us on our side of the room. Applejack is now the only one who opposes.

“AJ?” I say in a soft tone. “You comin’?”

“Well…ah…oh all raght.”

We all let out hollers of joy (except for Fluttershy who gave a simple “yay”) as AJ trotted into our group.

“But ah still got a bad feelin’ ‘bout this,” she proclaims.

“Hey, um, girls? Who’s that?” I realize Pinkie is referring to Stargazer. Wow, I almost forgot about him! I guess I was a little too caught up in the moment…

The other ponies turn to get a look at the stranger, still standing in Twilight’s doorway.

“Everypony, this is Stargazer,” I state to the confused group of onlookers.

“Uhh…hey there, girls,” Stargazer greets them shyly.

My friends greet him back, also somewhat shyly.

“So, Stargazer, how do you know Rainbow?” Twilight asks with great curiosity present in her voice.

I answer for him. “He’s my coltfriend,” I state with outright pride.

The other ponies are taken aback by this, but quickly regain their composure, and look at us in happiness.

Rarity is the first to speak, being the romantic one. “Oh congratulations, you two, that’s simply splendid! Ooh, this is so exciting! How did you meet?”

“Well, it’s actually a funny story…” Stargazer’s voice trails off. He seems a little too embarrassed to share the fact that we met when he literally rammed into my house. To be honest, so am I. So, I use the reason Stargazer and I came here in the first place as an excuse to temporarily get us out of this situation.

“Listen, girls, I’d be happy to answer any questions about me and Stargazer later, but right now, we REALLY gotta talk to Twi’. Alone.

The others look to Twilight, and she nods her head, confirming that whatever needed to be said, needed to be said in privacy.

As all but I, Twilight, and Stargazer depart from the tree house, I turn to speak to Twilight. Wait…what was that? I could’ve sworn I just saw an orange figure dart behind a bookcase out of the corner of my eye. Looking back at the bookcase, I don’t see anything abnormal, so I adjust my vision back to my purple unicorn friend, shrugging off whatever I thought I had seen.

“So, what did you want to talk about?” Twilight inquires.

“I think you know.”

“Yeah, I do. Well, I’ve made SOME progress. I was able to draw out a potential blueprint for the suit you will be wearing up there. The suit will be able to counter the strange pressure system, and will also allow you to breathe.”

“Sounds like progress to me. And again, I can’t thank you enough for all that you’re doing for me. But…there’s one more thing I’d like to include…”

“And that is?”

“I want Stargazer to come with me."

Twilight was completely surprised by this, and hesitated before continuing. It seems like she's trying to think of a reason to say no, but I know she won't anyway. "Umm...well...does he WANT to go with you?"

Suddenly realizing that the question was more directed toward him than me, Stargazer is caught off guard, but answers the question all the same. “Yes, it would be a dream come true! But, of course, I don’t want to intrude. If it can’t be done…well…I understand.”

Twilight seemed to be deep in thought. “Well…it might take longer…and the rocket shuttle will definitely be more of a challenge…but yes, I can-”

The rest of what she said was inaudible, for her speech was drowned out by me and Stargazer’s shouts of absolute elation.

Chapter 7: A Minor Setback

The next few months consisted mostly of daily routines of working out in the morning (since the HHAC finally fixed its gas problem), airborne training in the afternoon, and mental conditioning in the evening. Not all training is solely based on physical performance. For this task, mental health is crucial, for I need to react at a moment’s notice if something were to go wrong.

Stargazer usually trains with me as a team, since we are both taking this voyage into the unknown. Sure he’s smart, maybe as smart as Twilight, but he lacks the required physical ability needed to perform up to expectations out in space. We’ll fix that, though.

Once a week, I’ll pop in on Twilight to check up on her latest achievements. She is definitely ahead of schedule. By now, she has already built about one-third of the rocket shuttle (with a lot of help from Spike and AJ). Already, the space vehicle looks massive. So far, it stands at about thirty meters high, and that’s just the thrusters, apparently. I can’t even comprehend what the finished product will look like. She has also gained the assistance of Rarity, who has generously offered to fabricate the space suits and helmets. Everything seems to be going according to plan, if not better.

But of course, EVERYPONY needs a break from work now and again. So, every Saturday, AJ, Twi’, Pinkie, Rarity, Fluttershy, and I (and occasionally Spike) will meet up, hang out, and get some well-deserved R&R. Saturday is the day where Stargazer is usually at his astronomy lab where he works, so he, unfortunately, is unable to join us.

Our main (and most anticipated) activity is to watch a show called “My Little Human: Friendship Is Awesome.” It’s about these strange bipedal creatures called “humans” or “people” that live exciting lives and go on great adventures and discover the true meaning of friendship. The show itself was originally meant to be viewed by young stallions, but has mysteriously attracted the attention of adolescent and adult mares.

Well, to be honest, I guess it isn’t too mysterious at all. The storyline is creative and interesting, the animation is colorful and artistic, the backstories of some characters and events are excruciatingly detailed, and the characters’ personalities are perfectly portrayed. All of this detail makes the show extremely exciting to watch, and they even have some comedy thrown in there as well. Not to mention the countless inside jokes that would normally fly over the head of young fillies.

The six main characters of the show are Albert, Arnold, Donald, Elvis, Jimmy, and Steve. We have all come to favorite a certain character, and mine would definitely be Jimmy. As I previously stated, each character has a true personality, and it just so happens that Jimmy’s personality is very similar to my own. He loves speed, and has the need to go fast and furious. He works his hardest to be the fastest. But it’s not at flying. And it’s not at galloping, oops, I mean running. It’s DRIVING.

Jimmy drives something called a “racecar” for an occupation. A racecar is some sort of crazy-fast vehicle with four wheels on the bottom that make it move, but the wheels turn because of power from the “engine.” The engine is a battery that makes the car run, and it has to be tremendously powerful to make the car reach the speeds it should, which is usually between 100 and 200 miles per hour. I’m not sure how the creators of the show came up with the idea of a “racecar,” but I love it, even though it is very complicated and hard to understand.

Jimmy is an expert driver, considered part of the elite. He has won the championship five times (consecutively by the way) in his career in a racing league called NASCAR, and is determined to add to that number.

We all love the show, and think it is entertaining as well as educational. We can’t get it out of our heads! Especially since today is one of those days. That’s right, a new episode airs in ten minutes, and I’m on my way to Sugarcube Corner, since it’s Pinkie Pie’s turn to host this little get together, even though it’s not exactly HER residence. Mr. and Mrs. Cake graciously agreed to let Pinkie room there (since she works there and has no other housing), and also agreed to let us use the upstairs portion as our den to watch the show and talk. As long as we don’t disturb the others downstairs, we are free to do as we please.

As I make my descent from the sky towards Sugarcube Corner, I can see Fluttershy trotting up to the door. I land right behind her, and in my excitement to talk about the new episode, I guess I greet her with a very loud, “Hey, Fluttershy!”

“EEEP!” she squeaks in surprise as she spins around and is almost knocked off her own hooves. “Oh, it’s only you, Rainbow. Please don’t scare me like that. I know you didn’t mean it, but can you please try to be just a tiny bit more quiet when you say ‘hello’?”

“Yeah, hehe, sorry about that,” I respond, “So are you hyped for the new episode?”

“Oh, absolutely! I’ve been waiting all week to watch it. I’ve heard this one is supposed to be the best one yet!”

“This is going to be soooo cool! Well, we aren’t going to see the show standing here! Let’s go inside.”

But before I even have a chance to knock, the door swings open, revealing a smiling and elated-looking Pinkie Pie. And before we can even say hello, she immediately pulls us inside, shuts the door, and drags us upstairs to her room.

“Take a seat girls, the show is about to start!” Pinkie exclaims in her usual giddy fashion.

I do just that, and sit down on the small armchair next to me, and Fluttershy sits next to Rarity, who has also arrived along with Applejack, on the large sofa across from me.

As we lean in towards the television, waiting for the show to start, I notice that something isn’t quite right. The room doesn’t seem as full as it should be…Twilight! Where’s Twilight? “Uh, hey girls…where’s Twilight?” I inquire.

The others looked around for the moment, all of them with a look of confusion on their faces.

Not even a second later, I hear the front door downstairs slam against the wall, as if someone just kicked it in. We hear the shouts of surprise from Mr. and Mrs. Cake, and then fast-paced footsteps barging up the stairs. As I hear the footsteps reach the top of the stairs, who should enter the room but Spike, who looks like he just fought a war. He has multiple cuts on his face, it looks as if a few of his scales were missing, he is covered in bumps and bruises, and is encased in a thick, black, chalky substance. He is clearly worn out from running. He is breathing heavily, eyes watering, and it seems like he might pass out.

“Spike! Are you alright?!” Rarity asks in concern, “You look terrible! What happened?”

Through his constant panting, he manages to say, “Twilight…experiment…rocket fuel…explosion…doctor…hurry…”

And with that, Spike tumbles to the floor, unconscious. Even though his words were few, we know exactly what’s going on.

Fluttershy immediately comes to his aid. She confirms he is in fact unconscious, but needs immediate medical attention.

“Ah’ll take Spahke to the hospital and fetch the doctor,” stated Applejack. You fellers go check on Twahlaht. Hurry!”

We all dart out of Sugarcube Corner and head straight for Twilight’s library. Except for AJ, of course, who has Spike on her back, and is galloping at full speed towards the hospital.

Never in my life have I flown faster. I leave the others in the dust, not caring about anything except getting to my friend, who, as far as I know, could be seriously injured…or worse.

I’m the first to arrive on the scene. I can see the hulking figure of the half-built rocket shuttle in the back yard. It is untouched. Everything looks normal from the outside, but there is a faint burning smell. I buck open the door to the library, and race inside. I instantly regret it.

I am greeted by a huge cloud of smoke all around me. I can see almost the entirety of the inner tree house on fire, and destroying everything in its path. My eyes start to water profusely, and I choke on the thick, grimy, substance entering my throat. I drop to the floor to avoid the smoke cloud, since that is what I was taught to do when in a situation like this.

“Twilight?!” I call out, desperate to find the purple mare. “TWILIGHT!” There is no answer.

I begin to army crawl across the room, checking every inch of the room. I won’t be able to stay here much longer before my lungs start to give out from the smoke.

“TWILI-ACK-CK-CK!” I cough out. At this point, speaking is now impossible. Let alone yelling.

I continue to forge my way down what seemed to be an endless room, until I reach the stairs that lead down to the basement. The basement is where Twilight usually conducts her experiments and small construction projects. I slowly trek down the stairs, and I reach the door to the basement. It is wide open, and I can see a scene of absolute destruction inside.

Everything is on fire, racks of test tubes have tumbled to the floor, a chunk of the ceiling has collapsed from above, and almost all of the metal pipes used for air ventilation are melting into a super-heated liquid that is now oozing onto the floor. This is no average fire.

Without warning, a minor explosion erupts from the other side of the room. Shards of glass can be seen flying through the air. That explosion is succeeded by another, and then another, starting what seems to be a chain reaction. I realize the mini explosions are coming from glass and metal beakers filled with liquid. I guess the liquid is reactive to extremely hot temperatures, for the floor is now littered with the shattered glass and twisted metal that used to be the beakers. As I look before me, I realize the only way to continue my rescue mission, is to crawl OVER the sharp debris. This is NOT the relaxing day I had been hoping for.

As I take my first movement, my front-left hoof comes down on a piece of the metal, piercing into me. I holler out in pain, both from the sharp edge, and the extreme heat, now realizing what I truly must go through to reach Twilight.

I continue. Every clop is met with immediate and tormenting agony. I MUST move forward. Even as I do my best to push the harmful scrap away from me, and even though I try my hardest to avoid it, it somehow finds a way to tear into my hooves and stomach. Any second I could pass out from the pain, but my will is strong, and my mind is centered. I. WILL. NOT. GIVE. UP.
Through the gray shroud, I suddenly see a splotch of purple sticking out from behind a large desk. Can it be? Can it really be?

Moving faster than before, and completely disregarding the debris’ detrimental touch, I reach the desk and look around it.
Sprawled out on her stomach on the floor is Twilight, clearly unconscious. She looks a whole lot like Spike did, only worse. Her mane and tail are singed, she is covered in black dust she has a large and swollen bump on her head, and has a long cut going down her back, along with other minor cuts, scratches, and bruises. It’s a miracle she isn’t any worse.

With the strength I still magically have left, I lift Twilight up and place her on my back. I start back across the basement, taking the full force of the smoke, since I’m standing up now.

I make it to the stairs, and one at a time, start to climb. I become weaker with every ascent, and my lungs are screaming for mercy. I have nothing to offer them but more black smog.

The end of the staircase is so close, but seems so far. Just a few more steps. Five steps…four steps…three steps…two steps…one step… “CRACK!”

The noise was ear-busting and came from directly above. I look up. The last thing I see is a fiery colossus of ceiling hurtling down towards me.

And then blackness.