Dreams of Loss

Chapters

Chapter One
Chapter Two
Chapter Three
Chapter Four
Chapter Five
Chapter Six
Chapter Seven
Chapter Eight
Chapter Nine
Chapter Ten

Chapter One

Her dream is always the same. The new castle in Ponyville is aflame and Twilight Sparkle finds herself trapped on an upper floor. She doesn't know why but her magic is useless. In an attempt to escape she makes for a window; however, the blaze consumes the path to that exit.

“Help! Can anyone hear me? I'm stuck on the second floor of the castle!” Twilight calls out.

For a moment, it's as though no one could hear her pleas for help, but suddenly, Rainbow Dash bursts through the flames near the staircase of the castle. “Twilight! Come on! Let me get you out of here!”

Twilight smiles as she runs toward the pegasus, knowing that if anyone could get her out of the burning building, it was Dash. “I'm so glad you heard me. Thank you Rainbow,” she said, giving the rainbow-maned mare a kiss on the cheek.

With a grin, she boosts Twilight onto her back. “Hang on tight! This is going to be a bumpy ride,” Dash tells Twilight and immediately takes off and flies down the staircase.

As they are flying, debris is falling all around them while the castle begins to crumble. “Please be careful Rainbow! I don't know what I'd do if--”

Twilight was cut off by a piece of the structure falling directly in their path. “Look out!” Twilight called, but it was too late. Rainbow Dash just wasn't quick enough to dodge the debris.

As they begin to fall, she grabs the alicorn by the hoof and, with all her might, tosses her toward the exit of the castle. Twilight hits the ground so hard, it knocks the wind out of her. With all her might, she manages to sit up, immediately scanning the flames for any sign of Rainbow Dash. She almost lost hope of finding the pegasus when she notices something blue struggling with a large beam.

“Rainbow! Are you okay?” Twilight calls.

“Don't worry about me! You get yourself out of here. I'll be right behind you!” the pegasus replies.

“Promise me, Dashie! Promise you'll make it out!” Twilight shouts.

“I promise! I'll be right there! Go, please!” Dash exclaims.

With some hesitation, Twilight turns and ran out the door of the castle. Outside, her other four friends are waiting for her.

“Where's Rainbow Dash?” Applejack asks.

“She's still inside! She said she'd be right behind me!” Twilight says, turning back to face the structure.

“Don't worry. I'm sure she'll--”

Rarity's words are halted by the castle starting to give way and collapsing in on itself.

Twilight screams and makes for the tumbling building but she's held back. She isn't sure by what, but she knows she hates whatever is holding her back. “Let me go! I have to save Rainbow! She's still in there!”

“Honey, there ain't time!” Applejack says.

“Yes, please! We can't lose you too!” Fluttershy pleads.

“No! Rainbow! Rainbow! Please!”

* * * * *

“Twilight! Hey! Are you alright? Twilight, wake up!”

Twilight's eyes opened. Spike was standing on the bed next to her, his hand on her shoulder. “Spike? What's going on?”

“You were screaming in your sleep... was it the dream again?” Spike asked, a concerned tone in his voice.

The purple alicorn looked down and nodded slowly. “Yes. I don't know why I keep having the same dream over and over Spike. It's really starting to eat at me.”

“I know. You barely sleep anymore. I wish you'd take my advice and talk to Princess Celestia about this dream. It's not right for you to have it so much. How long has it been happening? Three weeks now?” Spike asked.

Twilight nodded. “I can't tell Princess Celestia though. I still look up to her and all, but it just doesn't feel right talking to her about this.”

“What about Princess Luna? Isn't she supposed to be able to enter other ponies' dreams and help them?”

“Yes, she does but I can't talk to her for the same reason I can't talk to Celestia. It just doesn't feel right...” Twilight said.

Spike gave Twilight a disapproving look. “If you won't talk to them, you need to talk to Rainbow Dash. Tell her how you feel. I bet if you did that, you'd stop having the dreams.”

Twilight stood up out of bed and walked to her balcony. “I can't tell Rainbow Dash. She's been too wrapped up in this Wonderbolts stuff. Besides, I'm sure she doesn't feel the same way. She's never once even given the appearance of having anything resembling a feeling for me. Other than the fact that we are friends, I mean.”

“So, you're just going to keep letting this dream happen? You've lost enough sleep as it is, Twilight! I wish you'd just listen to me for once,” Spike said.

“Just drop it Spike. I'm not going to tell anyone and that's that!” Twilight exclaimed. “And neither are you.”

“Fine,” Spike said and stomped angrily out of the room.

I'm sorry Spike. I just can't do it, Twilight thought to herself. It was then she realized that the sun was just beginning to crest over the horizon. Twilight watched as it began lighting up the entire valley in which Ponyville sat. So beautiful. I wish I had somepony to share it with. Not that Rainbow Dash would be up this early. The thought made Twilight giggle. Rainbow Dash was so carefree. She could sleep half the day away and still do everything she wanted to get done in that day.

Rainbow was funny, always happy, she was attractive, but there was one trait that Twilight loved about the pegasus most of all: Her undying loyalty to her and the rest of their friends. You would never see Rainbow Dash walk away from anypony. It just wasn't in her nature to do so. Loyal until the bitter end. And that's when she finally made her decision.

“Spike!” Twilight called.

After a moment, Spike poked his head in the room. “Yeah, Twilight?”

“I'm sorry Spike. You're right. Let's write that letter to Princess Luna. Hopefully she can help me figure out what to do about this dream nonsense,” Twilight said.

“What about your feelings for Rainbow Dash? Are you going to tell her about that too?” Spike asked.

“No, Spike. I'm not. This dream has nothing to do with my feelings for Rainbow. Once Princess Luna helps me get this dream sorted out, I'll be back to normal without spilling my feelings for Rainbow all over the place,” Twilight said.

“But--”

“No, Spike! It's not going to happen. Now please, just write my letter to Princess Luna,” Twilight said, sounding a bit more angry than she had intended. “Please.”

“Well, I guess I should just be glad you decided to at least write to Luna about your dream, Twilight. I think she'll be able to help you pretty easily,” the purple dragon said, walking over to the bedside table and pulling out a quill and parchment. “And I'm sorry I got a little bit mad at you before. I just don't like to see you so down and worn out.”

“It's okay Spike. I forgive you. I know how much you hate to see me like this,” Twilight said with a warm smile.

“Yeah, I do,” Spike said. And that's why I sent a quick message to Rarity about your feelings for Rainbow Dash. If anyone can convince Twilight to talk to Rainbow, it's Rarity! He thought to himself and chuckled inwardly. He knew Twilight would be upset with him at first, but he didn't mind. He just wanted his friend to feel better and be happy.

“Spike? You okay?” Twilight asked.

Spike jumped slightly and pressed the quill to the parchment. “Yup! I'm ready to write the letter!” he said with a big grin to the purple alicorn. “Where do I start?”

Author's Note

I was so glad that so many people liked my first TwiDash story! There were a few suggestions about what I could do with the current one, but rather that change that one a lot, I figured I'd try my hand at writing a new one. This one is going to have a few chapters so, if you like it, be sure to check back for the next chapter! Thanks again for reading!

Chapter Two

Rainbow Dash looked at the clock on her wall. 7 A.M. It was unusual for Dash to be up this early but it was for a good reason: in an hour she would be meeting up with her best friend Twilight Sparkle. Rainbow had been giving the alicorn flight lessons and, in her opinion, Twilight was getting better at flying. Of course, this meant that she was close to not needing the lessons anymore. When that thought crossed her mind, the pegasus couldn't help but feel a brief pang of sadness. It wasn't like she would never see Twilight again when the flight lessons were no longer needed, but still...

Rainbow glanced at the clock again. 7:02 A.M. Ugh! Why'd I wake up so early? It's not like I couldn't have just left a few minutes before eight. I still would have gotten there on time. Forget this, I'm going to Twilight's now. I'm bored and I'm sure she's already awake and fiddling around with her books, that silly egghead. And with that, Rainbow walked out her front door, spread her wings, and took flight toward the castle.

* * * * *

Spike sat at a table in the living area of the castle and stared, bored yet mildly stunned, at the six pieces of parchment in front of him. “Twilight, when I said you should write Princess Luna, I meant just a quick note saying that you were having some weird dreams and you were curious whether or not she could help. I wasn't implying a six-page letter.”

Twilight looked at the papers on the table and then to Spike. “Am I going into too much detail? I mean, I guess I could do it your way but then she wouldn't know what the dream was about. I figured it would be better to give her all the details so she'd know how to handle it.”

“Twilight believe me. I'm sure Princess Luna would know how to handle it if you told her in person too,” Spike said. “Besides, the inkwell is empty.”

Twilight sighed and gave the little dragon a frustrated look. “This was a stupid idea. I don't know why I even considered asking Princess Luna for help. It's just a stupid dream.” Twilight aimed her horn at the papers and, in a flash of purple, they vanished.

Spike's jaw dropped. “Really? All that work I did is just gone now? I really wish you'd just talk to somepony, Twilight! You've become a lot more grumpy since you've been losing sleep and frankly I'm getting tired of it.”

Twilight was taken aback. She didn't expect an outburst like that from Spike since he was always so understanding of her when she was upset or angry. The whole situation that she had found herself in just weighed so heavily on her. She was a mixture of anger, frustration, confusion and exhaustion. “I'm sorry Spike. It's like you said, I'm just tired. I didn't mean to take it out on you.”

“Twi, you know that no matter what, I'm here for you. I know you don't mean to direct any of your anger toward me. I'm your friend and I always will be. I'm glad you at least confided in me with what's going on in your dreams and your feelings for Rainbow Dash. I'm trying to help you with this situation but no matter what kind of help I offer, you shoot it down and, to be completely honest, it makes me mad.”

“I know Spike. I'm trying my best to deal with this in a way we can all be happy with, and not have any awkwardness sprout up because I voiced my feelings to Rainbow. I'm really sorry. I hope you can forgive me and just trust that I will get this all sorted out,” Twilight said, giving the dragon a weak smile.

Spike wanted with all his heart to break down and tell her that everything was alright but she needed a reality check. He knew he'd kick himself later for what he was about to do. “Twilight, you know I've been by your side through a lot, and I'm here for you now but today has shown me that you need some time alone to figure things out.”

“What are you saying?” Twilight asked.

“I'm going to Fluttershy's for a few days. Maybe by then you'll have talked to Rainbow or at least Princess Luna, like you said you wanted to do,” Spike said.

“You're leaving me alone here when you know I'm having a rough time with this dream?”

“It's not just a dream you're having a hard time with. You're refusing to accept the fact that this dream does have to do with your feelings for Dash. Maybe some time alone will make you see that and you'll finally talk to her about it. I'm sorry, but I'm doing this, Twilight,” Spike said. His little heart was breaking so hard right now, but he knew it would be for the best.

Twilight fought back tears. “Spike, I'm sorry. I guess if that's what you have to do, then do it. I won't stop you.”

“Bye Twilight. I'll be back in a few days. I promise,” and with that, the purple dragon walked to the door, opened it and ran right into Rainbow Dash's leg.

“Oh! Sorry Spike! Are you okay?” Dash said, helping Spike back to his feet.

“Yeah. I'm fine. See you later,” Spike said abruptly, and disappeared through the door

“What was that about?” Rainbow asked.

“It's nothing. He just wants a change of scenery. He's going to go stay with Fluttershy for a couple days,” Twilight said, turning her back to Rainbow Dash, and wiping away a tear with her hoof.

“Are you okay with that, Twilight? I mean, that little guy has been around you for as long as I've known you. I can't believe you are just okay with seeing him walk out like that,” Dash said.

Twilight tried to continue to hold herself together, but she couldn't. The tears just began to flow. “Oh, Rainbow. I was so mean to him this morning.”

Seeing that she was crying, Dash trotted quickly to Twilight's side and put a hoof on the purple pony's shoulder. “Hey, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to push the issue.”

“No, it's not you, Dash. It's me. I just haven't been sleeping well for the past few weeks,” Twilight said, once again wiping tears off of her face.

Rainbow looked at Twilight for a long moment. She hated seeing her like this, so much that it nearly made the pegasus want to cry, but knew she wouldn't. She was tough and didn't cry in front of anypony. With a smile, Dash put her foreleg around Twilight. “It's alright. Do you want to talk about it? I'm all ears if you do!”

Hearing this made Twilight feel better. She'd never known Dash to want to talk about other people's problems that much which made Twilight feel special. Of course she wanted to tell the rainbow-maned pony everything, but she just couldn't, because she knew Rainbow wouldn't feel the same way. “Thanks for the offer Dashie, but no. It's something I'm just going to have to work through myself.”

“You sure? I'm here for you Twi. Always have been and always will be,” Dash said with a big smile.

Twilight blushed. “I know. Thank you. Really, I'll be okay.”

“Alright then. In that case, you want to go on our flight a little earlier today? A funny thing happened: I actually woke up early! I've been awake since six-thirty this morning,” Dash said, exaggerating the shock in her voice, trying to cheer Twilight up even more.

“You? Up before sunrise? Never thought I'd see the day,” Twilight said.

Dash smiled smugly. “Technically you still haven't seen the day.”

Twilight laughed at that comment. “I guess you're right. It's too bad. You missed a beautiful sunrise this morning,” she said and headed to the front door of the castle.

“Well, maybe if I wake up early again tomorrow, I'll come over and we can check out that sunrise together. I mean, what are friends for right?” Dash said, following her..

Twilight forced a laugh. “Yeah! Friends! Sounds like it will be a lot of fun.”

“Awesome! When do you want to do it? Tomorrow? I don't mind getting up early if it's for you!” Dash said, immediately regretting the way she worded that sentence.

Twilight raised an eyebrow at the pegasus. “What do you mean?”

“I don't know... I just mean that I like hanging out with you. I like going on our flights. They're fun!” Rainbow said, trying to be more tactful with her words. To avoid any more misunderstandings, Dash spread her wings and shot up into the air. “Come on Twilight! The last one to Sugar Cube Corner buys the cupcakes!”

Twilight's smiled returned and she looked up at Rainbow Dash with a sly look. “Oh, you're on!” With that, Twilight spread her wings, flew up to Rainbow and together they took off towards Sugar Cube Corner.

As they flew, Twilight began to feel weak, like her wings just didn't want to keep her in the air. She didn't like the feeling. It felt wrong. She wasn't sure what was doing it, as she'd been fine flying, even with her lack of sleep. “Hey Rainbow, mind if we slow down a little? I'm not feeling so good,” Twilight called.

Rainbow Dash looked back at Twilight and could tell something was wrong, because Twilight had begun looking pale. “Uh, it'd probably be better if we landed,” Dash suggested.

“No, I'm fine to keep flying. I just... need to slow down is all,” Twilight insisted, but even as she said this, she could feel herself growing weaker by the second. Try as she might, she just didn't have the strength to continue flying. “Rainbow...” she managed to say before finally passing out.

Rainbow turned around just in time to see Twilight start falling toward the ground. The pegasus gasped and followed, trying desperately to grab a hold of her friend. Come on Rainbow Dash! You can get her. You're the fastest flier around. If you don't reach her, Twilight might not survive hitting the ground. A tear fell from Rainbow's eye, but she quickly wiped it away. Wherever that thought came from, it gave her the speed boost she was looking for.

In awesome fashion, as only she could do, Rainbow Dash caught her. “Gotcha!” she shouted triumphantly and landed. “That was a close one, Twilight! Next time I suggest we land, let's do it.” Rainbow chuckled. There was no response from the purple pony that she was holding in her forelegs.

“Twilight?” Dash asked, looking down at her. Still nothing.

“Rainbow! Are you two alright? I saw you flying over, then I saw Twilight fall!” came Rarity's voice.

The cyan pony held her tears back expertly as Rarity came into view. “I don't know what's wrong with her. One minute we were racing to Sugar Cube Corner and the next she was falling. Now she won't wake up!”

Rarity looked at Twilight and noticed she was still breathing. “Well, she seems to have passed out is all. We should probably get her to a doctor.”

“Right! I'm on it!” Rainbow said, spreading her wings and flying off toward the Ponyville Hospital. Hang in there Twilight... I'll get you there. You can trust me.

Author's Note

Chapter Three will not take as long to post. It's being written as we speak. Thanks for reading :)

Chapter Three

Rainbow paced back and forth in front of the door to Twilight's hospital room. The pegasus tried not to worry but she couldn't help it. She wanted so bad to know if Twilight was okay.

With a quick shake of her head, Dash managed to fight off the tears that, for what seemed like the hundredth time in the past hour, threatened to fall from her eyes. Confusion consumed her as she wondered why the situation made her so upset. Twilight was her friend and all, but it was like there was something more there. Something she couldn't put her hoof on.

The sound of the door to Twilight's room opening pulled Rainbow from her thoughts, and she looked at the doctor. “How is she, doc?”

“Not well, I'm sorry to say. For one thing, she's completely exhausted,” the doctor said.

“Well, duh. I could tell that just by looking at her earlier.”

“That isn't all. The princess seems to have slipped into some sort of coma-like state. Nothing I do will wake her. What was she doing when she passed out?” he asked.

“We were flying, Twilight said she needed to slow down. I suggested that we should probably stop flying and land, but she insisted that she was fine. About thirty seconds later, she passed out,” Dash recalled.

“Did she seem okay before you two began flying?”

“Yeah. I mean, she looked tired, but that's really it. There was no other indication that something was wrong with her,” she said.

“Strange,” the doctor said.

“So, what do we do? How can we wake her up?” Dash asked.

“I'm afraid that it isn't that simple. I'm going to have to inform Princess Celestia of the situation, as well as get in contact with the hospital in Canterlot. They may have some clue as to what is going on with Twilight Sparkle,” the doctor explained.

“Basically, what you're saying is that you have no idea what's wrong and we are going to be playing the waiting game?” Dash asked impatiently.

“Unfortunately, yes.”

Rainbow's heart sank. A thought had begun snaking it's way through her head. A thought that terrified her and made her nauseous. What if Twilight doesn't make it? What if she's killed by what's going on with her? “Is she going to die?”

The doctor shook his head. “It's too soon for me to tell. Once I speak with Canterlot Hospital, I'll know more, but for now, I can't give you a definite answer.”

“Well, how about you give me a guess, doc?” Rainbow said, her temper beginning to rise.

“Because I can't. I've never dealt with anything like this before. For someone to lapse into a coma without a clear indication as to why, is unheard of. I can't give a diagnosis when I don't have all the information I need at hoof. I'm sorry, Miss Dash, but I can't give you an answer,” he said.

“Thanks for nothing then,” Rainbow said, turning and heading toward Twilight's room.

The doctor hesitated for a moment then called after her, “Miss Dash.”

“What?” she said, not bothering to face the doctor.

“I don't believe she is in any immediate danger of dying, but comas are unpredictable. Even if she doesn't die, it's possible she could remain in a coma for weeks or, perhaps, years,” he explained.

“I thought you couldn't give me an answer to my question.”

“Sometimes it's better to leave aside professionalism, and try to give a little bit of hope to those who need it,” the doctor said.

Rainbow turned and simply smiled at the doctor before continuing into Twilight's room. His words had made her feel a little better, but she still couldn't help but worry. If something happens to Twilight, I'll be devastated. After that thought, Dash gave herself a mental slap. Ugh! Why do I keep having these thoughts? Could it be that I have feelings for her?

Dash sat down by the alicorn's bedside. She looked only as if she were asleep, and that she would wake up at any moment — and oh how Rainbow wished that she would.

* * * * *

Twilight was back inside the dream. Ever since she fell unconscious, the dream had just been on repeat. She tried desperately to wake herself up, but no matter what she did, nothing worked. I don't want to be in this dream! I hate watching Dash die over and over again. Please, wake up!

Twilight looked around, and noticed that the fire hadn't spread very far yet. I could probably find my own way out before Rainbow shows up. From what she could tell, she was on the second floor of the castle. She figured that rather than try to make it to the stairs, she would just fly out a window. Once again, she looked around, this time for the nearest window.

Spotting one a short ways away, she made for it. The fire hadn't blocked the path yet, which meant she could make it out. When she got to the window, she placed a hoof on it and it slid open. Twilight let out a sigh of relief, spread her wings, and flew through it. For a moment, everything went black. It was a blackness that threatened to suffocate her. Panic was just beginning to set in, when she spotted an opening in the blackness.

The light coming from the opening reminded her of what other ponies said about dying. A light at the end of a dark tunnel. Am I dying? No, I can't be. Not now. I have to tell Rainbow how I feel! She has to know!

With that thought, Twilight turned around and began to fly away from the opening.

“Twilight Sparkle!”

Hearing the voice made her stop and look around the blackness. “Hello?”

“Oh, Twilight. Thank goodness you can hear me,” the voice called.

“Princess Luna? Is that you?” Twilight said, now beginning to recognize the voice.

“Yes, Twilight, it is. I'm so very pleased that you can hear me. I feared that I wouldn't be able to reach you,” Luna said.

“What's going on? I'm so scared. I don't want to be here anymore. Please, help me get out of this horrible dream,” Twilight pleaded.

“I know you are scared. My sister and I are doing all we can to help you. Twilight, you must return to the castle. You are safer there.”

Twilight shook her head. “No. I'm not going there. The dream is just going to play out like it always does, and Rainbow is going to die. I can't bear it anymore. It's all I've been seeing for weeks.”

“I know, but your friends are worried for you, including Rainbow Dash. She has been by your side for hours,” said Luna.

“She has? Wait, hours?” Twilight said, shock in her voice.

“Everything will be explained to you soon, I promise. For now, please go back to the castle. You are better off there. I know that it is hard for you to be there, but we are trying to wake you. It won't be long. I promise.”

With great hesitation, Twilight flew back the way she came. When it was starting to feel like she'd never make it back to the window, it finally came within sight and she reentered the castle. “Okay. I'm here now. Luna, please hurry.”

“Do not fear, Twilight Sparkle. It should not be long,” Luna said.

“I hope not. I don't know how much longer I can stand this,” Twilight said.

“Twilight! Where are you? I need to get you out of here!” came the voice of Rainbow Dash.

Author's Note

Chapter Three as promised! You didn't have to wait long! Thanks so much for reading and commenting. Knowing that I can provide something for people to get enjoyment out of makes me happy!

Chapter Four

**Four Hours Before Luna Speaks With Twilight**

Rainbow paced back and forth across Twilight's room, quietly fuming. It had been two hours since the doctor had left to contact Princess Celestia and the hospital in Canterlot. What's taking so long? This is seriously starting to annoy me. I can't stand all this waiting around.

“Hey, Rainbow. Sorry we didn't get here sooner. We were gathering a few things to bring here. You know, flowers and such,” came Applejack's voice.

Rainbow turned to see her four friends, and Spike, standing in the doorway bearing balloons, flowers, and even a basket of apples. “Hey, everypony,” she said, continuing her pacing.

“Oh my. Are you doing okay with this, Rainbow?” Fluttershy asked, placing her boquet of flowers on the nightstand beside Twilight's bed.

Rainbow looked incredulously at Fluttershy. “Well, let's see. I've been here for two hours having the worst thoughts imaginable and realizing I have feelings I didn't even know I had! How do you think I'm doing, Fluttershy?”

Fluttershy cowered down slightly. “I-I- I'm sorry. It was a stupid question. I shouldn't have asked.”

Dash looked down at the floor. “I'm sorry Fluttershy. I didn't mean to snap at you. I'm just so worried for Twilight, and feeling confused about some other stuff.”

“What kind of stuff? You know you can talk to us about whatever's botherin' ya,” Applejack said, giving Rainbow a smile.

“I know, but I don't think I want to talk about it. It's confusing enough to me already. I think it would be just as confusing to you,” Dash explained.

“Oh! I know! Since you've been spending so much time with Twilight, you've grown to care for her on a deeper level and you didn't realize it until now and you're afraid that she's going to die and you won't get to tell her how you really feel about her! Is that right?” blurted out Pinkie Pie, all in one breath, before ending with a big grin.

Rainbow's jaw dropped. “How did you know?”

Pinkie giggled. “Just a hunch!”

“Is what Pinkie just said true? You've come to care for Twilight much more than just as a friend?” Rarity asked.

Rainbow nodded her head slowly, her cheeks turning a light shade of red. For a moment, the other ponies just stared at her, which made her begin to feel like she had made a mistake in confirming what Pinkie Pie had said was true.

“That's marvelous!” Rarity exclaimed suddenly. “Why, that is simply the most wonderful thing I've heard today!”

“Uh, Rarity? Ya mind sharing with the rest of us why yer so excited by this?” Applejack asked.

“Well, earlier today I received a letter from Spike. He explained to me what has been going on with Twilight these last few weeks. I'm sure you've all noticed that she has not been herself,” Rarity said.

The others nodded in agreement.

“She's been having a horrible, recurring nightmare. That's why she's looked so tired and hasn't exactly been Miss Social lately,” Rarity explained.

“Wait, what kind of nightmare? She never mentioned it to me, and we've been spending loads of time together!” Rainbow said.

“Of course she didn't mention it to you. The dream is about you and...” Rarity trailed off, not really wanting to finish the sentence.

“Yeah? About me and what?” Dash asked impatiently.

“In her dream, you die,” Rarity said, giving Rainbow a sympathetic look.

“What!” the ponies exclaimed in unison.

“I know! It was simply shocking when I read that part of Spike's letter,” Rarity said.

“That still doesn't explain why you were so excited to hear that I had these feelings for Twilight. Care to tell me why you were?” Rainbow asked.

“It's really not my place to mention it. I'm not sure Twilight would want me to,” Rarity said.

“But Rarity, it could be important! We need to know everything!” Dash said.

“Rarity, go ahead. As much as we'd like to respect Twilight's wishes, I think getting this out there will help. Especially if Princess Celestia comes here. The doctor said he was writing her, didn't he?” Spike asked.

“Yeah. That was two hours ago, though. I haven't seen him since,” Rainbow said, looking back at Twilight, and placing a hoof on hers.

“Oh, alright,” Rarity said finally. “The rest of Spike's letter went on to explain that she had feelings for you too, Rainbow. Apparently it's something she's been keeping hidden for even longer than the dream she's been having.”

Rainbow's jaw dropped, then she turned and looked at Spike. “Why didn't you come to me? I could have helped!” she said angrily. “I can't believe you'd let Twilight keep something like this a secret. I mean, look at what it's done to her!”

“Rainbow, you have to believe me. I wanted her to tell you. I knew that if she did, it might help this dream stop! She made me Pinkie Promise, but when I saw just how much it had begun affecting her, I knew I had to do something!” Spike said.

Pinkie's eyes widened. “You broke a Pinkie Promise?”

“Really, Pinkie, I don't think this is the time to worry about that,” Applejack said, placing a hoof on the party pony's shoulder.

Pinkie narrowed her eyes at Spike. “We'll talk about this later, Spike.”

“Rainbow, I'm really sorry. Please don't be mad at me. I really did try and make this all go away by at least letting Rarity know,” Spike said.

“Whatever. Just leave me alone,” Rainbow said, turning her attention back to Twilight.

“Rainbow Dash, really. You shouldn't be so angry with him,” Rarity said, trying to ease her friend's anger. “I was coming to find you earlier when I saw you catch Twilight after she passed out. I was going to speak with you, and find out how you felt about her first. Once I did that, I had planned to speak to Twilight. You mustn't be mad at Spike.”

“He should have done something about this when he saw that Twilight was starting to lose sleep,” Rainbow said bitterly.

“Fine! You're right!” yelled Spike. “It is all my fault. It's my fault she's in here. I should have seen the signs. Blame me all you want, Rainbow Dash. It couldn't possibly be your fault, or Twilight's for that matter!” Spike said.

Dash looked angrily at Spike. “Get out, Spike. You don't get to blame me or her for this. Just go.”

“Hold on now. Spike has just as much right to be here as any of us. You can't just send him away,” Applejack said.

“No, A.J. It's okay, if that's what Rainbow wants, I'll leave,” Spike said, making for the door, tears in his eyes.

“Good. Go,” Rainbow said, looking back to Twilight.

“Oh, Spike. Please don't go!” Fluttershy said, following the dragon as he left the room.

“I can't believe you did that,” Rarity said.

“Not only did he let this get out of hand, he blamed Twilight and I for all of this,” the pegasus said, her eyes burning with the threat of new tears.

Applejack walked over to Dash and placed a foreleg around her. “It's nobody's fault. Twilight didn't know this would happen and neither did you. Sometimes things just happen and there ain't nuthin' anypony can do about it.”

Rainbow sighed. “I know. This has just been harder to deal with since I realized my feelings for her. It's gotten confusing and I've been close to completely breaking down in tears. I don't want to lose Twilight,” she said, tears welling in her eyes finally.

“Rainbow, it's alright. Let the tears come,” Applejack said, pulling her friend closer.

Dash looked at her and saw the deep compassion and concern in Applejack's eyes. She couldn't hold back anymore. The tears just came.

Author's Note

I really hope you all are enjoying the story! Thank you, as always, for reading!

Chapter Five

**One Hour Before Luna Speaks To Twilight**

The doctor had been gone for five hours, and it worried Rainbow Dash. What if he found out something horrible? Like, what if the Canterlot hospital told him that there was no saving Twilight from this coma? What if she really was going to die? Thoughts like this had been eating away at Rainbow for the last three hours. She just couldn't shake them.

“Uh, Rainbow, you might want to stop biting at your hooves. You'll have nothing left of them if you don't,” Rarity said with a nervous, yet sympathetic smile.

Dash looked at her hooves, then placed them back down onto the floor. “I can't help it. Waiting for the doctor is making this really hard. We haven't heard anything for a long time!”

“Don't worry, Rainbow, I'm sure Pinkie and Applejack will be back with him soon. He can't have gone far,” Rarity said.

“Actually, he did! He went all the way to Canterlot!” Pinkie Pie said, walking into Twilight's room.

“What!” Rainbow exclaimed. “He decided to take a vacation while a princess is in this kind of condition?”

“Not exactly,” Applejack said, pushing the door open all the way to reveal not only the doctor, but Princess Celestia and Princess Luna as well.

Rainbow and Rarity immediately bowed respectfully to the princesses. “I'm sorry if I sounded rude, but he's been gone for so long. It was really beginning to worry me,” Rainbow said, feeling a little better now that Luna and Celestia were here.

“It's alright–,” said the doctor. “I decided that a letter would just take too long. You can never be too sure with the mail systems. I went to Canterlot personally and spoke with not only the hospital, but with the Princesses. I'm sorry it took me this long.”

Celestia walked to Twilight's bedside, and lowered her head slightly. “Oh, my poor Twilight. What has happened?”

“I took the liberty of returning home and getting the letter Spike sent to me earlier today. It explains what has been going on for her these past few weeks,” Rarity said, pointing her hoof at the scroll on the bedside table.

Celestia's horn glowed as she used her magic to pick up the letter. Luna went to her sister's side and read the letter as well.

“This is a most troubling dream. How was I unaware that her dreams had come to this one sad and painful one?” Luna said, her head lowering.

“You can't possibly be in everypony's dreams at once. That's a lot of work for just one pony, even if you are a princess,” Celestia said, attempting to comfort her sister.

“I am aware of this, but Twilight Sparkle is a princess. Perhaps I should watch her dreams more closely,” Luna said.

Celestia looked back to the letter and finished reading it. With a sigh, and a warm smile, she looked at Rainbow Dash. “I am happy to hear that Twilight has grown fond of you, Rainbow Dash. How do you feel about this?”

Dash looked at Twilight and smiled. “I'm glad she has and I care for her too, but...”

“You are afraid she won't make it back out of this dream? Is this correct?” Luna said, placing a hoof on Dash's shoulder.

Dash nodded slowly.

“Fear not. I will see to it that she makes it out of this dream. It is, after all, my duty as princess of the night,” Luna said, giving Rainbow a reassuring smile.

“How? I mean, do you even know how this happened?” Dash asked.

“I believe that her refusal to tell you her feelings has somehow trapped her in that awful dream,” Celestia said.

“But how? I don't understand,” Rainbow said.

“I wish I could say. The mind is a hard thing to know. I do not think we will ever know exactly why things like this happen,” Celestia said.

Luna looked to the doctor, “Do you have a quiet place I could go? To enter her dream, I must be able to focus my mind and magic.”

“Of course. Follow me,” the doctor said, leaving the room with Luna.

Dash looked back to Twilight and felt a fresh wave of tears coming on. No. No more crying. Princess Luna and Princess Celestia are here. If there's anyone who can get Twilight back to me, it's them. To her relief, the feeling of tears faded, and she could feel hope return to her.

* * * * *

Fluttershy sat at a table inside the hospital cafeteria with Spike. The dragon's anger had subsided, and he and the yellow pegasus were enjoying a nice apple cider.

“You know you don't have to stay with me out here, Fluttershy. I'm sure you'd like to be up in Twilight's room, especially since Princess Celestia and Princess Luna are here,” Spike said.

“Oh, don't worry, Spike. We spoke with them before they went up there. Just knowing they are here is enough to ease my worries. Well, a little anyway,” Fluttershy said.

“No, you know what? We should probably go back. I don't care what Rainbow wants. Twilight and I have been friends for a long time. It doesn't feel right that I haven't been up there,” Spike said, hopping off his chair.

Fluttershy gave him a hesitant look. “A-are you sure? What if she just starts yelling at you again?”

“With the princesses up there? She won't. Besides, we've been gone long enough. Let's go see what's going on,” Spike said.

Fluttershy gave the dragon a smile, and followed him. “You don't hate Rainbow Dash, do you?”

Spike thought on the question for a moment, then shook his head. “No, I don't hate her. We're all feeling the stress and worry of not knowing what's going on with Twilight. How could I be mad at her for caring like that?”

“I'm so glad to hear that. I'm sure she doesn't hate you either. Friends have arguments, but that doesn't mean they have to stop being friends.”

After a few minutes, they reached Twilight's room. Two Royal Guard ponies stood outside of it.

“Halt!” both guards called at once.

Not expecting the sudden loudness of the guards, Fluttershy jumped and cowered down behind Spike, which didn't really hide her at all. “We're sorry! We'll go!”

“No we won't! We're friends of Twilight's. I'm Spike and this is Fluttershy. Will you please let us pass?” Spike said.

One guard disappeared into the room for a moment, then returned. “Alright. You can go in.”

“Thank you,” Spike said, walking through the door, Fluttershy still cowering behind him as he walked.

Applejack noticed Fluttershy hiding, unsuccessfully, behind Spike. “What in the world are ya doin', sugar cube?”

“The guards scared me. I wasn't expecting them to be so loud,” she said, finally coming out from behind Spike.

Applejack couldn't help but smile and pulled Fluttershy into a hug. “I'm glad ya got Spike to come back finally. How'd ya manage it?”

“Actually, I decided on my own to come back,” Spike said, turning to Rainbow. “I'm sorry I lost my temper with you, Dash. This is hard on all of us and this is no one's fault.”

Rainbow walked over to Spike and looked down at him. This made the purple dragon feel a little uncomfortable, but then a smile formed on Dash's face.

“I'm glad you came back, Spike. I'm sorry too. I shouldn't have blamed this on you. Friends?” she said, extending her hoof.

Spike smiled and took her hoof in his hand. “Friends!”

Author's Note

Huzzah for Chapter Five! Hope you are all still enjoying the story! Chapter Six is written. I'm just having my pre-reader check it out. It might be posted today, but not sure! Hope you like this one, though!

Chapter Six

**Present Time Just After Luna Speaks With Twilight**

Princess Luna had returned after having been gone for an hour. She told them that Twilight was alright, but that she was scared. “I have formed a theory as to how we can get Twilight Sparkle out of her dream.”

Rainbow's ears perked up and she turned to Luna, giving her her full attention. “That's great! How?”

“It will require somepony to enter her dream,” Luna said.

“Well, how can we do that? It doesn't seem possible!” Dash said with a confused look.

“I am not sure if it can be done, but I would have to act as a bridge for the one who is to enter Twilight's dream,” Luna said.

“The one going will be me,” Dash said adamantly.

“I had not doubted that it would be you, Rainbow Dash. Your dedication to your friends is truly great, however, this process could be dangerous,” Luna said.

“I'm not worried. 'Danger' is my middle name!” Dash scoffed. “Besides, I'll do anything to help get her back to me—I mean us.”

“It's alright, Rainbow, we're all aware of how much you want her to wake up,” Rarity said with an understanding smile.

“I do not intend to try to dissuade you from doing this, but are you certain you are willing, Rainbow Dash?” asked Celestia. “For all we know, you could be physically hurt, or worse.”

“And, if you are hurt, there will be no way for us to know back here,” Luna said.

“There's nothing anyone could say that would stop me from doing this,” Dash said.

“There is a possibility that you could die,” Luna said.

“I don't care, as long as I have a chance to bring Twilight back,” Dash said, unflinchingly.

“Are ya sure about this, Rainbow? I mean, ya don't know what to be expectin' once ya get in there,” Applejack said.

“Stop trying to talk me out of it! I'm doing this. It's my choice,” Dash said, temper rising.

“I'm not! I just want ya to think this through! The princess here said ya could die. Twilight's already in a bad spot, we can't lose both y'all,” Applejack said, giving the blue pegasus a concerned look.

“I understand what you're trying to do, A.J., but my mind's made up,” Rainbow said, and turned to Princess Luna. “What do I have to do?”

“I will need you to lie next to Twilight Sparkle,” Luna said.

“No prob– What?” Dash said, her cheeks turning a light shade of red.

“Lie down by Twilight, please. The closer in proximity you both are, the easier this should be,” Luna said, motioning toward the bed.

With slight hesitance, Rainbow approached the bed and looked down at Twilight. “You're sure about this?” she asked Luna.

“Well, no. As I said, I have never done this before. I am just following what my instincts tell me,” Luna said.

Rainbow nodded slowly, gently moved Twilight a little more to the other side of the bed, then climbed into the bed herself.

“Aw, don't you two look sweet and cozy!” Pinkie said cheerfully.

Dash's face flushed red once again. “Shut up! Laying next to somepony is something that's entirely new to me! You talking like that isn't helping my comfort levels here.”

Pinkie giggled. “Sorry Dashie, but I can't help it! You two are going to make a great couple!”

Fluttershy took a timid step forward. “I think so too.”

“Alright my little ponies, enough–,” Celestia said with a warm smile. “If you keep this up, her coat is liable to change colors.”

The laughter that followed was a surprising comfort to Rainbow. She had been so upset and sad the entire day that laughter seemed to lift her spirits somewhat. She glanced over at Twilight, and gave the sleeping alicorn a smile.

“Are you ready, Rainbow Dash?” Luna asked, stepping behind the space between the wall and the head of Twilight's hospital bed.

Without removing her gaze from Twilight, Dash nodded. “Yeah. I'm ready.”

“Then let us begin,” Luna said, placing a hoof on Twilight's head and one on Dash's. “Close your eyes. Picture Twilight in your mind.”

“Easy enough. She's all that's been on my mind today,” Dash said, closing her eyes.

“Very good. Now, just relax. This will not hurt,” Luna said, her horn beginning to glow.

A couple of minutes passed with nothing happening. But just as Dash was about to say something, she suddenly found herself inside the Ponyville castle, only there was something wrong. It was on fire. The heat from the flames made beads of sweat appear on her forehead, and the smoke felt like it was trying to suffocate her.

Okay, Dash. Remember why you're here. To save Twilight. Ignore the discomfort you are feeling, and focus on finding her. You have to tell her how you feel!

With determination, Rainbow spread her wings and took off. It didn't take her long to realize that the castle seemed much larger in the dream. She wasn't sure where to start looking for Twilight; she could be anywhere.

* * * * *

Twilight ran through the upper hallway of the castle, trying to find a place to hide. Princess Luna had said not to leave the castle, and Twilight was determined to stay hidden from her dream's version of Rainbow Dash.

“Hello! Twilight! Where are you? It's me, Rainbow! I'm here to get you out of this place! It's going to collapse at any moment!” came Dream Dash's voice.

“No, no, no!” Twilight exclaimed and dove into a nearby room. Luckily, this room wasn't on fire, and she was able to hide inside a tall wardrobe. She could hear hooves getting closer and closer to where she was hiding. With a light nudge, she pushed the door of the wardrobe open slightly. Rainbow was in the room looking for her.

Please, please go. I don't want you here! This place can't collapse if I'm still in it!

Suddenly, the doors were yanked open. “There you are! Gosh, for an egghead you sure picked a dumb place to hide.”

“I'm not going with you, Rainbow. I'm staying here!” Twilight protested.

“Don't be an idiot! This place is up in flames! Please, let me get you out,” Dream Dash said.

“No!” Twilight exclaimed, running out of the wardrobe, and past the pegasus. “Just go away and leave me alone!”

* * * * *

Rainbow had nearly given up hope of finding Twilight when she heard the purple pony's protesting screams.

“Just go away and leave me alone!” Twilight exclaimed.

“Twi! There you are!” Dash said as Twilight ran into view.

Twilight came to an immediate stop. “Rainbow? How did you get ahead of me?”

“What are you talking about? I just got here. Princess Luna worked some awesome magic and got me inside your dream!” Dash said.

Twilight was shocked. She looked back the way she came and saw Dream Dash flying toward her. “I don't understand... I know Luna said she was going to try to get me out of the dream, but she didn't say how.”

“Yeah. That's why I'm here! To save you!” Dash said.

“No! Twilight, don't listen to that Rainbow Dash, she's lying! I'm the one who's here to save you!” Dream Dash said.

Twilight looked between the two of them. “I don't know if I believe either of you. Dreams are strange things. You could both be lying to me.”

Rainbow flew down to Twilight and stood in front of her. “I can prove that I am the real Rainbow Dash.”

“Oh yeah? How are you gonna do that?” Dream Dash said, a smug smile crossing her lips.

“With these words: I came into this dream to save your life. I feel that I'd do anything for you. I love you Twilight Sparkle, and that's the truth,” Dash said, her cheeks turning red.

Tears came to Twilight's eyes. She couldn't believe what she was hearing. It was almost too good to be true. “I... I don't know what to say. I didn't know you felt the same way as I do.”

“I didn't either, until today. I'm sorry that your dreams haunted you so badly. Had I known, I'd have tried to do something about it, because, you know, I'm awesome,” Dash said with a cheesy grin.

“Oh, Rainbow! It really is you isn't it?” Twilight said, throwing her forelegs around Dash in a big hug.

“Yeah, it's me. Don't get too sappy right now, egghead. We still need to get you out of here,” Rainbow said.

“Well, if anyone can get me out of here, it's the real Rainbow Dash,” Twilight said, releasing her from the hug.

“Yeah, well, like I said, I'm–“

“NO! YOU CANNOT HAVE HER! SHE MUST REMAIN HERE IN THE DREAM WORLD!” Dream Rainbow Dash yelled.

Twilight and Dash looked at the dream copy. It had turned black, its eyes were glowing red and, worst of all, it had grown to be the size of an Ursa Minor.

Author's Note

Hope you all are still enjoying the story! Thanks so much for reading!

Chapter Seven

“What the heck is that thing?” Rainbow asked, looking from it to Twilight.

“I don't know! This is something entirely new!” Twilight said, a new thought forming in her mind. “Where is Princess Luna? Why isn't she here too?”

“I don't know. She talked a lot of dream mumbo-jumbo, said that she'd have to send someone else in, and I volunteered. She didn't say anything about a giant, black-coated, red-eyed, shadow monster!” Rainbow exclaimed.

“Enough! You cannot have her! We will stop you, Rainbow Dash,” the shadow being said, stomping its hoof on the floor.

The tremor of the giant being's hoof caused Rainbow and Twilight to lose their balance and fall to the floor. The pegasus attempted to return to her feet, but another tremor brought her down again.

“Rainbow! Help!” Twilight yelled.

Dash looked up to see Twilight engulfed in a black aura, floating up toward the creature. “Twilight!” Suddenly, driven by sheer adrenaline at seeing Twilight in danger, she spread her wings, and flew toward Twilight.

The Shadow attempted to swat Rainbow Dash down to the floor, but she was too fast for it, and dodged its blow expertly. This enabled her to fly through the black aura, and pull Twilight out of it.

“Fly, Twilight! We need to get out of here!” Dash said, holding the alicorn her in forelegs, and sped off away from The Shadow.

Twilight flapped her wings, but try as she might, she couldn't take off. “I can't! I've never been able to fly in this dream; or use my magic for that matter.”

Dash hesitated for a moment, then her usual, cocky smirk formed on her lips. “Get on my back, then. I'll fly us both out of here.”

At Rainbow's words, a sudden realization came to Twilight. The dream was starting to play itself out insomuch as Dash carrying her to safety. She had had a hard enough time seeing the dream version of the pegasus die, she wasn't about to let the real one sacrifice herself either.

“Rainbow, stop, please. Put me down now and get out of here. I can't let you sacrifice yourself for me,” Twilight said.

“No way! I'm not letting you go for anything. I'm gonna get you out of here.”

“If you don't put me down, I'll jump down. You need to get out of this dream and just forget about me,” Twilight said, and began to try to wiggle her way out of Rainbow's grasp.

“Stop it, Twi!” Rainbow protested, but Twilight wouldn't. She had begun wiggling around so much that Dash was about to lose her grip. “Alright! I'll put you down, but I'm stuck here with you.”

As they landed on the ground, Twilight looked at Rainbow. “What do you mean? Isn't there some way you can have Luna stop the spell she is doing?”

“Nope. Only way for me to get out is if you get out with me,” Dash said, a smug grin crossing her face.

“Rainbow Dash, you idiot! You're going to die in here, and there's nothing I can do about it!” Twilight said, hitting Dash in the shoulder with her hoof.

“Hey, Princess! You forget who I am! I'm me! I'm not some lame dream version of me. I'm the real deal. I'm awesome and I am going to get you out of here,” Dash said. “Besides, I think we lost big, mean, and creepy.”

The wall behind Rainbow was suddenly blown apart and the Shadow pulled its way through. “You must not leave, Twilight Sparkle,” the Shadow said. “Your fears are ours! We need them!"

“What are you? I don't understand why you trapped me here!” Twilight said, rushing passed Rainbow to stand defiantly in front of the Shadow monster.

“We are The Shadow. We are what form out of fear. We feed of the fears of ponies. Your fear of this pegasus learning of your true feelings for her proved to be an excellent source of sustenance for us."

“Wait, so is that why my magic doesn't work, and why I can't seem to fly?” Twilight asked.

“Yes. We could not have you teleporting or flying yourself to freedom. We thrive because you fear. We cannot be stopped."

"Then why can I fly?" Dash asked.

"Your arrival in this dream was unexpected to us. You also do not seem to fear this world, or the consequences that can come of your actions in it. But despite your interference, you cannot hope to stop us."

“Not unless I get Twilight out of this dream. And believe me, I will,” Rainbow said adamantly. “You don't scare me.”

“WE SHALL SOON SEE!” the Shadow exclaimed, stomping its hoof on the floor once again. This time, however, instead of a tremor, the floor cracked and gave way.

“Twilight!” Dash said, spreading her wings and flying to the alicorn's aid as she fell. There wasn't time to stop their descent, so Rainbow turned her back to the ground and held Twilight tightly in her hooves.

There was an audible crack as they hit the lower floor. Twilight jumped off Rainbow and looked down at her. “Are you okay?”

No response.

“Rainbow, please. Answer me!” Twilight said, placing a hoof on Dash's shoulder, shaking her lightly.

Still, no response was uttered.

Twilight placed her hooves over her eyes, and began crying uncontrollably. “No! Please! Not like this! Rainbow, please come back!”

“Twi...” came a weak voice.

Twilight moved her hooves and looked down at Rainbow, who was looking back at her. “Oh, thank Celestia you're okay.”

“I wouldn't... ow... say that,” Rainbow said.

The alicorn watched as her friend sat up. Twilight could see that Rainbow's shoulder didn't look right. It looked more like her shoulder had lowered itself closer to her wing joint. “I think your shoulder might be dislocated.”

“We don't have time to worry about that. Just help me, we need to find a place to hide,” Dash said.

“Okay. I think I know somewhere, but it's going to be hard to get to with the castle on fire,” Twilight said, putting her foreleg around Rainbow in effort to help her move.

“It's alright. Just get us there,” Dash said quickly.

* * * * *

Having managed to avoid the flames, Rainbow and Twilight made it to, what seemed to be, the last portion of the castle that hadn't been set on fire. They hadn't seen The Shadow for quite some time, and Twilight wasn't sure if it was good luck, or if the creature was just biding its time.

“Where are we going?” Dash asked.

“My bedroom. In this version of the dream, it hasn't been set on fire, and I'm not quite sure why,” Twilight said. “Here we are.”

Twilight pushed the large door open with her hoof and walked in. Everything was the same as it was in the real castle. Right down to Spike's little sleeping basket on the floor at the foot of her bed.

“Come on, Twi. I need your help with my shoulder,” Dash said, walking over to the bed and laying down on it.

“Uh, okay. What do you want me to do?”

“Well, the shoulder's easy enough to fix. It's happened before. I think I remember how the doctor fixed it, but I'm going to need your help,” Dash said.

“You actually remember something that's going to be useful here, yet you have a hard time remembering the history of the Wonderbolts?” Twilight asked, a sly smile forming.

“Hey! That's not cool. I remembered everything and passed that test, you know!” Dash exclaimed.

Twilight giggled. “I know. I'm sorry, I couldn't help it. What should I do to help?”

Dash moved her dislocated limb over the edge of the bed. “You need to grab my hoof with both of yours, and on the count of three, pull hard.”

Knots formed in Twilight's stomach. “Won't I hurt you by doing that?”

“Yeah, it's gonna hurt a lot, but I need it fixed so I can walk around on my own,” Dash said. “Now, take my hoof in both of yours.”

Twilight hesitated for a moment, then placed her hooves on Dash's.

“Ready?” Dash asked.

Twilight gave her a reluctant nod.

“One... Two... THREE!”

Twilight pulled hard on Rainbow's leg and, with a very loud “CRACK”, and a scream of pain from the pegasus, the leg popped back into it's socket.

Twilight let go of her friend's hoof, ran to a corner of the room, and promptly threw up. Even in a dream, that was too much for her to handle.

Sweat trickled down Rainbow's face as she sat up and looked over at Twilight. “I'm sorry, Twi. Are you okay?”

“Just give me a minute. I don't know what was worse: the horrific sound it made, feeling it pop into place, or your scream.”

Rainbow got off the bed, and stood on all four hooves. It hurt a bit to stand, but it was nothing she couldn't deal with.

Dash walked over to Twilight and placed a hoof on her shoulder. Twilight, who had tears in her eyes, turned and looked at the blue pony.

“No. Don't cry, Twilight. I'm alright and you're alright. No tears,” Dash said, wiping away one of Twilight's tears with her hoof and caressing her cheek.

Twilight smiled softly and looked into Rainbow's beautiful pink eyes. Their heads began moving closer together, but just as their lips were about to meet, the door to the bedroom shattered.

“TWILIGHT SPARKLE! YOU BELONG TO US!” the Shadow yelled.

Author's Note

This chapter was a tad bit harder to write! I found a couple of continuity errors, but they should be fixed! Let me know if you see something that I need to fix and I will get right on it!

Thanks, as always, for reading!

Chapter Eight

The Shadow was bearing down on Rainbow and Twilight, who were now cornered.

“What do we do?” Twilight asked, panic in her voice.

“We're going to have to make a run for it!” Dash said.

“But where, Rainbow? The whole place is in flames!”

“Then we're going to have to make for a window or the front door,” Dash said, staring down the creature in front of them. Dash noticed that the room's size seemed to have grown — probably the doing of the Shadow. The run to the door wouldn't be easy, but she was confident they could make it out.

“Windows are out of the question. I tried that before when I was by myself, but it didn't work,” Twilight said.

“Then we make a break for the front door,” Dash said.

“Okay. I'm with you,” Twilight said with a smile.

“Now! Run!” Dash said.

Both ponies took off running as fast as they could toward the door. Twilight watched Rainbow run between the Shadow's legs, so she followed suit, but it terrified her. The beast roared with anger and began stomping its hooves on the floor.

“We're almost there!” Dash said.

When Twilight didn't respond, she looked back to the room. Twilight had been knocked to the floor by the creature's constant floor stomps.

“Twilight!” Rainbow said, spreading her wings and flying to Twilight's aid. Reaching the alicorn, Rainbow landed and motioned to her back with her hoof. “Get on!”

“But, your shoulder!”

“I don't care! Get on, now!”

With hesitation, Twilight stood, and climbed onto the pegasus's back, taking care to not block her wings. “Let's go.”

Dash nodded, and took flight. As they left the bedroom, they could hear the Shadow roaring with anger.

”There's nowhere you can run! We will always find you, Twilight Sparkle! Your efforts to escape will be in vain!”

Dash smirked. “Not this time, they won't.”

* * * * *

At first, Rainbow was sure she could find her way to the front door, but after a few minutes of wrong turns and dead-ends, she was beginning to realize that it wasn't as easy as that. Finally, she gave in, and asked Twilight.

“Which way to the front door? You've had more time in here than me, you've gotta know your way around.”

“Sort of,” Twilight said. “Stop flying for a second, and let me get my bearings.”

Dash did as she was asked, and landed. “Be quick. The Shadow's probably right behind us.”

“Yeah, I know. Hold on,” Twilight said, looking around. Finally she saw what she was looking for. An ugly statue stood farther along the corridor. “Over there. See that statue?”

“Yeah, I see it. What about it?”

“There should be stairs that lead down to the castle's main floor.”

Without hesitation, Dash took flight again, heading for the statue. “I hope you're right. I'm starting to not even recognize this place. It's like it keeps changing.”

“Some things are changing. Didn't you notice what happened to the bedroom when the Shadow came in?”

“Yeah, it seemed to double in size. It was weird.” Dash said, as they arrived at the statue. “Okay, where are these stairs from here?”

“Right over there,” Twilight said, pointing off to the right.

“Great!” Dash said, flying down the staircase.

When she came to the bottom of the stairs, flames were everywhere once again, and debris was falling from the ceiling.

Dash came to a halt and stared out across the destruction. “This is insane, but I'm sure I can find a safe path across all of this.”

Twilight's fears were beginning to get the better of her. “I don't like this. This room is where we get separated. I can't lose you Rainbow... Especially not now.”

“You're not gonna lose me, Twi! We're both getting out of here. I pr-”

“NO!” Twilight said, interrupting her friend. “Don't you dare promise me, Rainbow Dash. That isn't a promise you can keep. You've promised me before, and you've died each time!” Twilight said, dropping off the pegasus's back.

“Wait, Twilight! Okay! I won't promise you, but you're coming with me. I can see the front door, and I think I finally see a path out,” Dash said.

Twilight looked out across the room. The flames were so thick, and the debris falling wasn't helping her feel any better. She looked back at Dash.

“Trust me, Twilight. When have I ever given you cause to doubt?” Dash asked, giving Twilight a pleading look.

Twilight sighed. “You haven't. Alright. Let's get out of here,” she said, then climbed back onto Rainbow's back.

Dash smiled. “Awesome! Let's go!”

Rainbow took flight close to the ceiling, and headed for the door.

Half-way to the door, the Shadow came seemingly from nowhere. It stretched out its leg, and swung at Rainbow. The blue pegasus attempted to dodge, but she wasn't prepared. The Shadow's blow connected, breaking one of Rainbow's wings, and they began to fall.

As they fell, Dash grabbed a hold of Twilight's hoof. “Twilight, spread your wings! Even if you can't fly, you can still glide! Spread your wings out, and head for the door!”

“Not without you!” Twilight exclaimed.

“Stop being so stubborn! I'll be right behind you!”

“NO! I'm not going without you!” Twilight protested.

Determined to save Twilight, Dash began flapping her wings. The pain was excruciating, but she managed to make herself, and Twilight, stop falling. As they neared the door, Dash swung Twilight back and forth a couple times, then tossed her toward the door.

The pain had become too much for Dash to bear, and she fell to the floor. Flames and debris now separated the two.

“Rainbow! Can you hear me?” Twilight called.

“Yeah, I can hear you,” Dash said, wincing at the pain she was feeling.

“Can you make it to me?”

“I'll find a way around. You get out of here! I'll be right behind you!”

“How do I know that?” Twilight asked.

“You don't! You'll just have to trust me!” Dash replied.

Twilight struggled with what to do. On one hoof, she wanted to stay to make sure Rainbow made it out. On the other hoof, she wanted to trust her friend to find a way out.

“Fine, but you better make it out!” Twilight said, resigned.

“Go!” Dash called.

Twilight didn't say anything, she just turned, and ran out the door. She was just going to have to trust Rainbow.

When she saw that Twilight made it out the door, Dash turned. The Shadow was standing over her. “I told you I'd get her out,” she said simply.

”You think you've won? We have you now. We can take out our revenge on you, and take your life.”

“Do your worst, monster. I did what I came here to do. Twilight will be safe,” Dash said.

The Shadow roared with anger, and slammed its front legs hard into the floor, making the building begin to crumble.

Dash smiled, sat down, and closed her eyes. You're safe now, Twilight. That's all that matters to me.

Author's Note

I finally found a way to get over my dislike of chapter eight. It took a couple rewrites, but that's what authors are supposed to do! Chapter Nine soon! :)

Chapter Nine

The steady beeping of a heart monitor was the first sound Twilight heard as she awoke. “Where am I?” she managed to say, her voice just above a whisper.

“Hey! She's awake!”

“Spike?” Twilight said, opening her eyes slowly, and seeing the baby dragon standing over her.

“Not just Spike, sugar cube. All of us are here,” came Applejack's voice.

Twilight heard murmurs of agreement from her other friends. Suddenly her eyes snapped fully open as she remembered what had happened in the dream world. “Rainbow Dash – is she okay?”

“I am uncertain of that, Twilight Sparkle. She has not yet awoken,” Luna said, coming into view.

Twilight sat up, and looked around. Not only was Princess Luna standing by her bedside, but so was Princess Celestia. “You both came here? I don't understand.”

“That does not matter right now, Twilight. We are glad to see you awake. It seems that Rainbow Dash was successful,” Celestia said, giving Twilight a warm smile.

Twilight returned the smile, then noticed the blue pegasus lying next to her on the bed. “Rainbow...” Twilight said softly, then looked back to Luna. “Is she alright? What happened?”

“We were hoping you could tell us. You were the one in the dream after all. What was keeping you there?” Rarity asked.

“It's all sort of fuzzy. I remember The Shadow. It's some sort of being that lives within nightmares, and feeds on ponies' fears. It chased us through the burning castle, but Rainbow managed to get me out. She said she'd be right behind me,” Twilight said, her gaze returning to the pegasus lying beside her.

“I see. I am surprised that I have not heard of this monster,” Luna said, losing herself in thought briefly, but continued her statement. “Now that I am aware of its existence, I will make sure it does not do this to anypony ever again.”

Twilight, however, had stopped listening. She had laid down again, and moved herself closer to Rainbow. She brought a hoof up to the blue pony's cheek, and caressed it softly. “Rainbow...I hope you can hear me. Wake up. I need you. I need you to see that I'm okay, and I need you to be okay,” she whispered into Dash's ear, as tears formed in her eyes.

“Um, maybe we should leave the room for a few minutes, girls. I mean, if that's alright with you four,” Fluttershy suggested timidly.

“Well, a course it is!” Applejack said, walking to the door, followed by Rarity, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie.

“We will remain here. Somepony should be here if... if the worst has happened,” Celestia said.

Spike didn't move from his spot. He had been standing there the whole time, remembering what he'd done and said to Twilight earlier that day. How could he leave her, knowing that he hurt her, and could have lost her to this dream?

Suddenly, Spike was on Rarity's back, being taken out of the room. “No! Wait! I don't want to leave Twilight. I was so mean to her today,” he protested, and attempted to jump from Rarity's back, only to be caught in a magical bubble.

“I'm sorry, Spike. You will have time to give her your apologies later. Right now, she needs to be with Rainbow Dash,” Rarity said. “And I'm sorry that I have to pull you away like this.”

Twilight had tuned everypony out. In that moment, it was just her and Rainbow. All her thoughts were focused on the pegasus next to her. Nothing was going to tear her attention from Dash. “Please, Rainbow. Please wake up.”

Twilight's heart sank when she realized that Rainbow didn't seem to be responding to her voice, or her touch. The alicorn rested her head against the pegasus's, and began crying softly. Despite the fact Rainbow was breathing, Twilight couldn't help but feel she had lost her. The Shadow had won in the end.

At this realization, Twilight began to cry uncontrollably. She moved her hoof around to Dash's shoulder, and pulled her in close. “Rainbow, I'm so sorry! If I hadn't been such a coward, you'd still be here with me. Please come back to me.”

Celestia moved forward, and placed her hoof on Twilight's shoulder. “My dearest Twilight. I am so sorry. I'm not sure there any words I could say to you right now that would help, but I am here for you.”

Twilight didn't move. She continued to hold Rainbow close to her, and cry. That's all she wanted to do right now. Nothing else in the world mattered to her at that moment.

A few minutes passed, and Twilight's cries had dwindled down to nothing more than sobs. She felt hollow, like a part of her had just been ripped away from her. Inwardly, she cursed The Shadow, and she wished there was some way that she could get revenge for what it had done.

Anger had begun to snake its way through Twilight, and she was beginning to embrace it when a weak voice pulled her back from the brink.

“Twilight...” Rainbow said weakly.

Twilight opened her eyes, and raised up, looking at Rainbow Dash, who returned her gaze. “R-R-Rainbow?”

“Heya, Twi,” Rainbow said.

At first, Twilight wasn't sure how to react. She stared down at Rainbow, a look of disbelief painted on her expression. “You're awake. I thought I'd lost you.”

Rainbow gave Twilight a weak laugh. “You forget who I am. I'm Rainbow Dash, and I'm awesome!”

A smile worked its way across Twilight's face, and fresh tears formed in her eyes. Her anger had ebbed away, and the hollowness she felt had disappeared. In that moment, Twilight felt only what she could describe as pure joy. The somepony she loved was alive, and safe. “You never cease to amaze me, Dashie. That's one of the things that has made me love you.”

Rainbow smiled. “Aw, don't go getting all sappy on me, now. You're gonna make me cry,” she said, fighting the burning sensation that had formed in her eyes.

Twilight gave a small giggle, then kissed Rainbow on the cheek. “You really are an awesome pony. Never change, Rainbow.”

Rainbow's face flushed to a bright pink color, and she gave Twilight a cheesy grin. “I don't plan on it!”

The door to the room opened once again, and Applejack's head appeared. “Did Ah hear Rainbow's voice?”

“You sure did, A.J.! Come on in here!” Rainbow called.

“Yeehaw!” Applejack exclamed, opening the door fully.

The ponies and Spike walked quickly in, and all somehow managed to squeeze onto the bed, initiating a huge group hug. Any fear of losing either Twilight or Rainbow had vanished from their minds. They were all just happy to be together once again.

Author's Note

This chapter went through FOUR rewrites, but I think I finally ended up with something I am happy to have you all read. Thank you so much for the comments and feedback. Thank you for reading! Not done yet! Don't worry!

Chapter Ten

Twilight and Rainbow walked along the shoreline of a remote section of the Ponyville River. She wanted to take Rainbow some place nice, quiet, and maybe even a little romantic for a picnic. She smiled at the way Rainbow had protested going to the river, all but insisting they go out to a Wonderbolts show, or even a restaurant in Ponyville.

Twilight, however, had been adamant that they needed time for just the two of them. Ever since she had been released from the hospital, the alicorn had been surrounded by her friends. They were determined to let her know they didn't care she was into mares, and that they were still as close as ever.

They finally arrived at a spot by the river with an enormous shade tree sitting a few yards from the edge of the water. This was a spot Twilight had came to a lot before when she wanted to do her studies in private, but not shut up in the library.

“This is the spot. I've never brought anypony here before. It's really a great spot to think, and relax.” Twilight said.

Rainbow sighed, and set her bag down on the ground under the tree. “You'd really rather be here than front row at the Wonderbolts' show?”

Twilight smiled lightly. “Yes. I thought this could be a special place for us, like it has been for me in the past. Here we can be alone. No pony will bother us out here.”

The pegasus shrugged, and began setting up their picnic. “I'm sure you're right Twi, but next time, I get to choose our date location.”

Twilight giggled, and gave Rainbow a kiss on the cheek. “Oh, Dashie. Of course you can, and I can't wait to see where you take me.”

“I already know, and it's going to be awesome!”

“I'm sure it will be,” Twilight said with a smile, levitating their friendship journal to her. A quill followed it, both floating out of the bag Dash had been carrying. “Hey Dash, can you set up the picnic under the tree? I've got a journal entry I'd like to make about everything that happened.”

“Leave it to me! I'll have it ready before you know it!” Dash said excitedly.

With that, Twilight found a comfortable spot to lie under the tree, opened the journal, and began writing.

Everypony has dreams. Sometimes they are good and sometimes they are bad. The good ones can make us feel all sorts of emotions, but mostly the good dreams tend to make us happy. The bad dreams... They can sometimes be awful. I will never forget the dream—no, nightmare—world I was caught in for what seemed like weeks. Always trying to run away from of what really made the dream a nightmare to me.

It wasn't the castle being on fire. It wasn't the fact that I didn't have any of my friends there with me. It wasn't even the giant black nightmare beast that wanted to keep me trapped there. It was because the somepony I care so deeply for kept showing up in that nightmare, and it always ended with her death. I always ran and hid from her, but then something amazing happened. The real Rainbow Dash showed up in my dream.

At first I didn't want her there. I hated the fact that she had entered my nightmare to save me. I was worried now that she would really die. Boy was I stupid. She not only saved me, but she also managed to make the horrible beast that was after me fade away.

In many ways love and friendship can go hoof-in-hoof; however, the love I feel for Rainbow has seemed to grow beyond that love I feel for my other friends. And you know what? They are okay with that. I learned that I shouldn't be afraid to tell my friends anything. Even something as big as having to tell them that I'm into mares, because true friends will always be with you, no matter what.

“Are you going to write in that thing all day? We came here to relax, and have some time to ourselves!” Rainbow's voice came.

Twilight looked over at the blue pegasus, and gave her a smile. “This is relaxing to me. Besides, I'm writing down the important thing I learned. I want there to always be a reminder, because I do forget sometimes.”

“You're such an egghead,” Dash said, walking over to Twilight with a smile. “And I'm fine with that.”

“I should hope so. You know it's not going to change anytime soon,” Twilight said, motioning for Rainbow to lie down next to her.

“I know. It's like the best thing about you. I mean, if it weren't for that eggheadedness, I wouldn't have gotten into the Wonderbolts Reserves,” Dash said, laying beside Twilight.

Twilight's smile faded slightly, and she nuzzled Rainbow's neck lovingly. “I owe you so much more, Rainbow. If it weren't for you, I probably wouldn't be here anymore.”

“Don't say that Twi. I think, given some time, you'd have found a way out,” Rainbow said, attempting to reassure her marefriend.

A tear fell from Twilight's eye. “I don't think so. I was so scared in that world that I probably would have given up if you hadn't come along. There are ways I'm strong, but nothing like the strength you have.”

“Hey, hey now. Don't cry. I didn't mean to upset you,” Rainbow said, using her hoof to wipe the tear from Twilight's face.

“It's just... I thought I'd lost you when I came out of the dream. When I thought you were gone, I felt something. It felt like something growing within me. The anger I felt toward the Shadow was starting to overwhelm me, like it was trying to twist me into something evil,” Twilight said.

Rainbow chuckled. “You, Twilight Sparkle, be evil? I don't-”

Twilight frowned angrily, stood, and began walking away. “This isn't a joke Rainbow Dash.”

Dash was taken aback, but she stood, and walked quickly over to Twilight, blocking her path. “Hey, wait. I'm sorry. It's just that I don't think I could picture you turning evil like the other bad things we've faced.”

“Anyone is susceptible to that kind of evil, Rainbow. It's scary to think, but it's true. That feeling really has me scared,” Twilight said, turning, and nuzzling up to Rainbow again.

“I really don't think you have anything to worry about, but no matter what happens, I'll always be around to help you,” Dash said, nuzzling back.

“I know you would, but if I were to turn evil, you'd have a duty to stop me,” Twilight said, more tears falling from her eyes.

Rainbow pulled away and looked into Twilight's purple eyes, and saw the sadness in them. “No. We'd turn you good again, like we did for Princess Luna.”

“I don't think it would be that simple. Without me, or any one of us, I fear that our magic would be useless. You'd have to-”

“No! Stop right there. I just got you back, and I don't plan on losing you. Ever,” Rainbow said adamantly. “Can we please not talk about this now? If that is something you are really worried about, wouldn't it be better to discuss these possibilities with Princess Celestia?”

Twilight walked to the edge of the river, and stared down into the water. “I don't know. It might be, but this is a conversation that you and I will need to have at some point. I know it's hard, but it's never going away.”

“You don't think I understand that?” Dash said, following her. “I may not be as smart as you, but I know when something's important. It's just... You brought us out to this secluded place to have some time away from everypony, and now you want to talk about the possibility of me losing you. I just want this day to continue being about us.”

Twilight turned, and gave Rainbow a small smile. “I never thought I'd hear you say something like that. It was very romantic of you.”

Dash's cheeks turned pink. “I, uh, well...I wouldn't have said it if I didn't mean it.”

Twilight leaned forward, and kissed Dash on the cheek. “Let's not worry about this right now. I'll go talk to Princess Celestia about my concerns in a couple of days. Today is about you and me.”

Dash smiled. “Alright! Let's eat! I'm starving!”

* * * * *

A Few Days Later...

Twilight and Celestia stood in the Canterlot castle throne room. Celestia looked at Twilight with disbelief. “What you have told me is troubling, Twilight. I cannot even begin to fathom what you are suggesting. You were grieving. I'm not sure what you think is going to happen will happen.”

“I know, but what I felt didn't feel like I was grieving. I was angry, and I wanted revenge.” Twilight walked to the stained glass image of herself and her friends when they found the elements. Her eyes stopped on Rainbow's image. “It's not something I've ever felt before, and I am terrified that one day something horrible will happen. If that day comes, I don't know that I could take it.”

Celestia walked up beside Twilight, and placed a hoof on her shoulder. “It is not something you would have to go through alone, Twilight. Not only am I here for you when need me, but you will always have your friends. Remember to look to them in your times of greatest need.”

Twilight turned away from Celestia. “Am I being selfish if I stay with Rainbow? If it's possible that I could turn bad because of something happening to her, shouldn't I remove myself from that danger by distancing myself?”

“I cannot tell you what to do in this situation. I am glad you came to me, and told me your concerns. I can only advise you to proceed with caution if this truly worries you,” Celestia said.

Twilight looked back at the stained glass image of Rainbow Dash, and sighed.“Then I guess I have a decision to make.”

* * * * *

A Week Later...

Rainbow and Twilight walked together along the shore of the river. The day had been sunny, and warm—the perfect day in Twilight's opinion. However, Twilight had been unable to fully enjoy the day because of a decision she still had yet to make.

“Hello? Earth to Twilight! Are you listening?”

Rainbow's voice pulled Twilight back to the reality she dreaded. “I'm sorry, Dashie. What were you saying?”

The pegasus rolled her eyes. “I was asking you if you were okay with going to the Wonderbolt Show with me this weekend.”

Twilight tried to force a smile, but failed. Instead she lowered her head slightly. “Rainbow, we need to talk.”

“Why do I have a feeling this isn't going to be good?” Dash asked hesitantly.

“Because it probably isn't going to end how you want it to.”

“If this is about your fear of going bad, you should just stop right there.”

“We can't dodge this conversation forever, Rainbow!” Twilight exclaimed.

“But we don't have to talk about it now. I don't wanna talk about it right now!” Dash replied.

Twilight frowned angrily at Dash. “Then when? It's been over a week since I brought this up. I feel that if it were up to you, we'd never talk about it!”

“That's because there's nothing to talk about. Nothing is going to drive you to that point while you have your friends,” Dash said. “Even if something did happen, we'd get you back!”

Twilight let out a groan of frustration, and turned away from Rainbow. “We're done. It'll be better this way.”

Dash's eyes widened in shock. For a moment, she couldn't move or think, but she managed to shake off the shock. She flared her wings, and flew to Twilight, blocking her path. “Whoa, whoa, whoa. You can't say something like that, and just expect me to let you walk away.”

“Yes I can! I'm doing this for us—all of us!” Twilight yelled.

“So you think breaking things off with me will spare us all from an evil that might happen? You think you'll turn evil if something happens to me, so your solution is to just run away?” Dash shook her head, and began walking away. “That doesn't sound like the Twilight I know and love.”

Twilight's heart skipped a beat, knowing that Rainbow was right. She felt a sinking feeling in her gut as she realized how idiotic she had been. Even if something happened to Dash, how could she know that she would turn evil? She could prepare as much as she wanted for something, but when it came down to the wire, she'd always act differently. How would this be any different?

“I was wrong.”

Rainbow stopped, and looked back at Twilight. “What was that?”

Twilight didn't look at Rainbow, but she knew the pegasus was looking at her with those beautiful, dark pink eyes of hers. “I said that I was wrong.”

“What made you change your mind?”

Twilight smiled, and finally met Rainbow's eyes. “You did,” she began in a whisper, voice growing more confident with every word. “I realized that you were right, and I'm sorry that I even suggested breaking off our relationship. Can you please forgive me for being so stupid?”

Dash tried to maintain a serious look, but the smile she was concealing crept it's way free. “Aw, Twi. Of course I forgive you. I don't think I could stay mad at you for long anyway.”

Twilight giggled, and nuzzled Rainbow's neck softly. “I love you, Dashie.”

Dash wrapped a foreleg around Twilight, and pulled her in closer. “I love you too, Twilight.”

Without breaking their embrace, Twilight looked at Rainbow and gave her a sly look. “So about that Wonderbolt show...”

Author's Note

Finally! Chapter Ten! It's been so long. I'm so sorry!

I must thank the awesome 314 for helping me out with this chapter. LOTS of help was given! Thank you so much!