Stairways and Serenades

Chapters

Trail in the Sky
Steps to Rise
Paradigm
Stairways and Serenades

Trail in the Sky

In my thoughts I have seen rings of smoke through the trees

And the voices of those who stand looking

The grass was blown by a strong gust of wind as Rainbow Dash soared just barely above the ground. Twilight Sparkle watched, accompanied by Pinkie Pie as they stood on a hill, amazed, but not surprised by their friend's aerobatic display. The pegasus beat her wings faster as she shot into the sky, appearing smaller and smaller to the two ponies observing below.

Twilight turned her head to Pinkie, who fixed her stare on Rainbow in her ascent. Looking back, she saw Dash performing an odd looping, rolling manoeuvre she'd always call the Spectral Eight; a gaudy title, but appropriate in it's flashy nature. She watched as Dash nearly completed it, but wavered in a downward spiral towards the other two.

“Good job, Dashie!” Pinkie cried, looking straight up at the pegasus plummeting towards her.

“Pinkie,” Twilight glared. “She's losing control!” Twilight nervously looked around, and then back at Rainbow, crashing towards the ground. A lavender aura surrounded Dash, slowing her descent and gently pulling her closer. The unicorn felt something though, pulling; resistance.

“Twilight, what are you doing?” Rainbow Dash looked back, still confined in Twilight's magical grasp. “Stop that!”

“A-Are you okay?” Twilight tilted her head and did as she was told.

The pegasus dropped to the ground and brushed herself off. “Yeah, what was that?” she asked.

“Twilight thought you were gonna hit the ground and go all 'splat'!” Pinkie grinned. “Remember last time? You had to stay in the hospital for all that time and you were really, really bored.”

Rainbow gave herself a bit of time to think, and then sighed. “Twilight, this is just me riding the lightning, you know?” Dash rolled her eyes. “I wasn't crashing down, that's how it's supposed to be done.” Looking at her sheepish friend, she puffed her chest out just to bring a laugh. “Come on, you know that if there's one pony who can handle Rainbow Dash, it's Rainbow Dash!”

The unicorn directed her gaze to the ground. “I'm sorry, I just uh...”

“Yeah, it's all good. I fully understand that sometimes my wicked stunts leave ponies thunderstruck.”

Pinkie quickly joined in to nod. “Yeah, yeah, yeah, thunderstruck!”

Well, good going Twilight. You've made yourself look like a fool. She looked away, taking great measure to appear like she was actually paying attention to the empty hills running on the outskirts of Ponyville.

Pinkie Pie excitedly rushed to Twilight's side moving her head back up to the sky. “Silly Twilight, Rainbow Dash isn't over there, she's up there!”

With that, the two continued to watch, as Twilight spoke quietly to herself, “Makes me wonder...”

Twilight sat alone in her room, the mahogany body of her Whitetail acoustic guitar resting against her. The light of a new day shone through her single window, shining down upon the Red Everfree Explorer that sat in the corner of her room. She used her magic to swap her acoustic in place of the Explorer, nearly falling from her thigh due to inaccuracy.

“Ugh, I can never get this right,” she groaned. Magically switching guitars once again, the Whitetail appeared in her grasp once more. There were a lot of ways to impress a pony with music, and even more when combined with the forces of magic. It was unfortunate that even with both, she couldn't do it.

Twilight began pick the strings of her guitar, moving her left hoof across the neck in accordance with it. However much time she spent practising, it didn't feel like she was going anywhere, and that needed to change. As her playing became increasingly difficult, her horn began to glow. The strings attained a lavender glimmer, pushing themselves down against the fretboard to compensate for her clumsy hoof.

The Everfree Explorer picked itself up under Twilight's magical grasp, and started playing simple notes with much distortion. It was hard playing one guitar with the assistance of magic, playing two while distorting one of them was painful. If only she had something to support her, because at that rate, there was no way she'd be able to make her sound presentable for anypony.

It wasn't as if any of her friends knew how to do this stuff, or were even interested in the first place. She was on her own in doing this, a shut-in who who fiddled with those crazy sound-making machines. Maybe Pinkie Pie would like it, but then again, she was interested in everything.

Outside her window, she could see a streak of rainbow line the sky. Patterns formed around the clouds as she went by, spiralling faster as-

...As the Explorer fell to the ground, creating a horrible bang as its magical distortion faded. She'd lost concentration, once again. Sighing, she picked up both guitars and set them aside for the day. Less than a minute of practice was more than enough.

There's a feeling I get when I look to the west

And my spirit is crying for leaving

Walking to the balcony, Twilight had a great view of Ponyville, and a better view of Rainbow Dash, now attempting stunts that didn't even look possible. It was soon apparent that she was coming towards her, rolling rapidly in her direction. Twilight stepped aside as Dash flew by her, crashing into a bookshelf.

She picked herself up off the floor, now covered with all sorts of literature. “Hey Twilight, didn't plan on catching me that time?”

“I thought it was part of the act!” Twilight stammered. “M-Maybe you should just be more careful then.”

Rainbow Dash sighed, shaking her head. She began to chuckle soon after. “That's a good one Twilight.” She brought her attention back to the books on the floor. “So, need help cleaning any of this up?”

“Yes, that would be gre-”

“Hey, what's this?” Dash interrupted. “So you've got... 'Harsh Vocals for Eggheads'?” She tossed one book aside – much to Twilight's displeasure – and picked up another. “'Heavy Gauge's Glorious Guide to Glam Metal'? This stuff is awesome!”

Twilight's ears perked up in excitement as she brought herself closer to Rainbow Dash. “You really think so?”

“Yeah sure, didn't know you liked this stuff.” Dash smiled. “Hey, how's my LICK impression?” Rainbow Dash stuck her tongue out as far as she could, raising her 'Devil Hooves'. It looked nothing at all like any of the band members.

“It's...” Twilight sheepishly blushed as Rainbow Dash grinned in anticipation. “Great?”

The pegasus pumped her hoof in triumph. “Yes, I knew it was! Thanks Twi', now all I need is some face-paint!”

She nervously looked around. “Heh, no problem.”

“So, where's your gear?” Dash grinned.

“My gear?” Twilight asked. “You mean my guitars? They're in my room, why?”

“Come on, I have an idea.”

These are the burning times,

The years of pain!

Twilight had to admit, Rainbow Dash's harsher vocals seemed pretty nice, but that didn't keep her from remembering her highs. The amount her voice cracked just made Twilight want to shudder. She didn't feel like judging though; after all, she'd butchered the solo earlier on. Meanwhile, Rainbow Dash paced around the room pretending that the quill in her hoof was a mic. It was silly, and definitely cute, despite the lyrics.

It doesn't matter, what you've done

In my words you are a sinner

For every word you say to me, in every way

You are a sinner

The chorus repeated, as Twilight continued playing that same riff again. The song was almost over, and she knew what was coming, but she'd be ready for it.

“You are a sinner!” Dash screamed into the quill. Twilight wasn't ready at all. Rainbow Dash head banged with her short mane getting in her face. Meanwhile, Twilight finished up the song, blowing out a large breath as she gave her Explorer one last strum.

“Twilight, that was awesome!” Dash grabbed her friend and shook her around a bit.

Twilight smiled in return, receiving the compliment well. She took the guitar by her strap and put it on it's stand. “Thanks, you did pretty good too.” Her eyes twitched as she said it.

“Oh sweet! What are we playing next?”

“To be honest, I think that was more than enough.” Twilight giggled. Really, she was just fortunate that she didn't have Dash singing some Iron Mare Den. “We already had to shoo away Spike once, remember?”

The pegasus shook her head, smiling. “Right. Poor little guy probably isn't as hardcore as we are.”

“Nope, not at all.”

The moment felt kind of odd. Odd how there was so much noise, how it was so metal just a while ago, and now it was nearly silent. The two took a moment to breathe, looking around at the books which they'd forgotten to sort earlier.

Dash took notice of it, now realizing that Twilight was glaring at her. “Yeah...” She scratched the back of her head. “Sorry about that, got a bit carried away.”

“You think?”

“Yep, don't think I'd get the opportunity to do that very often.” Dash gave a sheepish smile. “It was fun though, wasn't it?” Twilight brought a hoof to her chin, nodding. “Exactly! Well, I should be going now. See ya Twilight.”

“You sure you don't want to stay a while longer?” Twilight asked.

“Nah, I'm good. Spent enough time away from training.” Rainbow shrugged. “But hey, that was awesome! Keep it metal, alright?”

“Of course, bye Rainbow Dash.” The unicorn looked down, slightly disappointed. As sloppy as the jam was, it was nice to spend more time around Dash. Yeah, maybe I should have played one more song with her... Too late now. She took notice to the tune that Rainbow hummed, something she could already play, albeit with some mistakes. She continued to hum it as she spread her wings, taking off at the balcony.

“That's...” Twilight continued to watch her fly for a while until she was but a small dot in the sky. She started to hum the tune herself, walking back into her room to examine her Whitetail acoustic guitar. With that, Twilight knew exactly what she had in plan.

Ooh, ooh, and she's buying a stairway to heaven

Steps to Rise

Your head is humming and it won't go, in case you don't know

The piper's calling you to join him

“There she is!” Applejack called out.

Rainbow Dash turned to look, crossing her forelegs. “Took long enough, now where are the other two?”

“Yeah, sorry I'm late.” Twilight stumbled towards them, “I kinda lost track of the time.” She approached the red and white checkered picnic blanket, the three mares giving her awkward looks. “Is something wrong?”

“Darling...” Rarity set her copy of 'The Four Ponies of the Apocalypse' back down to address her friend. “Are you okay?”

The unicorn set her picnic basket down, seating herself with the others. “Of course, why wouldn't I be?” Her eyes felt heavy, wanting to close on their own accord. “Oh, right... I didn't get that much sleep last night.” She paused for a bit, quietly muttering to herself, “or any.”

“I can tell!” Applejack commented. “Twi', we all know you have a readin' problem. There's no shame in that, you hear me?”

Rainbow Dash opened up her picnic basket, pulling out a rather chunky sandwich. “It's alright, Twilight. I only got like, what, seven hours of sleep last night? I know that feel.”

“No, no, no, it's not a reading problem. Just uh... nothing.” Twilight's reading would often get her to lose sleep, but it happened much less often as she found other priorities. No, her lack of sleep was from the hours of magical exertion, the hoof cramps, the sounds of endless strumming and picking. “Oh well, enough about me,” Twilight giggled. “Commence the eating!”

“Way ahead of you,” Dash said as she pulled out yet another sandwich from her basket. “Too bad Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie aren't here,” she said, chewing in between words. Rarity gave her a pestered look.

Twilight opened her picnic basket, pulling out a five-bit foot-long sub. She held it with a gentle magical pull, before throwing it in her mouth to be voraciously devoured in a way that would rival the likes of Pinkie Pie. The three mares turned to the blatant, smacking sound that Twilight was giving off.

“You too Twilight?” Rarity looked slightly disappointed. “Doesn't anypony have some manners around here?”

Twilight looked at her sub, half of it was gone already. “Yeah, sorry about that. I didn't eat much either.” The unicorn shied away. “Or, maybe I did. It's hard to keep track of these strings. I mean things.”

Applejack peeked her head in closer to Twilight. “What exactly were you doin' all this time? Now that I think 'bout it, you haven't been goin' outside lately.”

“Probably busy being totally metal,” Dash commented.

“Indeed. Rainbow Dash told us all about your guitars.” Rarity shook her head. “A bit too much about them.”

Twilight giggled, her face reddening. “Well, it's really nothing. Just a hobby.”

Applejack tilted her head, almost wanting to laugh. “Don't sound much like 'just a hobby' when you got one 'a them eight-strings and triple-neck guitars!”

“Yeah, I may have gone a bit overboard talking about that.” Twilight saw Dash blush. It kickstarted her heart. She hoped it'd never stop.

Rarity finished the forkful of salad in her mouth. “Oh Rainbow Dash, you know that Twilight would never handle one of those... gargantuan beasts.”

“Exactly. Not everypony can be as hardcore as Fluttershy.”

Rainbow Dash started a light chuckle, bursting into laughter. “Oh man, could you imagine? Fluttershy with a Flying V?”

Applejack was quick to join in. “She might run away from it, like she's gonna pass the cemetery gates or somethin'.”

“Girls!” Rarity groaned. “Enough of that, Fluttershy has far too much class associating herself with an instrument like that.”

Rainbow Dash shook her head, still struggling to hold in her laughter. “Always ruining my fun Rarity, good job.”

“Well, it is nothing but the truth.”

The pegasus rolled her eyes, much to Rarity's displeasure. “Yeah, well... Twilight told me she saw her smash a bear up that one day. That's pretty metal.”

Twilight frowned slightly, she didn't like to remember how badly she freaked out when failing to deliver a friendship report. “Turns out she was only giving it a massage. Sorry to 'ruin your fun', Dash.”

“Doubt she'd hurt anything with those little hooves of hers,” Applejack commented. “Twilight, on the other hand, killin' all them ponies with her guitar skills.”

“Yeah, totally me, Applejack.” Twilight rolled her eyes. “Killing is my business... and business is good!”

Tuning the machine heads on her Everfree Explorer, she sighed once more to herself. “Alright Twilight, got to get back to work. Three hours of sleep is more than enough!”

She seated herself on the old wooden chair, magically switching her guitars, and as always, failing to do so smoothly. Despite this, she began to pick out the first notes of what she had in mind for Rainbow Dash. It felt pretty empty however, only with one guitarist and vocalist. Who would play the recorder? The electric piano? The bass? Drums?

Her door quickly opened to reveal a baby dragon behind it.

“Ugh, Spike. Knock next time!”

He flinched at the sound of her voice. All these years, and he still couldn't get used to it, let alone remember everything Twilight would tell him to do. “Yeah whatever, Rainbow Dash is here. She said she wanted to see you.”

“Oh...” Twilight smiled to herself, setting down her Whitetail on it's stand. “I'll be down in a minute.”

She closed the door on Spike, hearing a few small steps afterwards. Twilight wanted to make herself look more presentable, trotting closer to her mirror. Her door soon opened once more.

“Spi- Oh, hey Rainbow Dash.”

“Twilight, you're here!” she grinned.

“Y-Yes. Yes I am?” As much as she liked Rainbow's enthusiasm to see her, she couldn't help but find her behavior odd, perhaps unnerving.

“What we did two days ago was awesome! We've got to play something else, like, now.” She stared at Twilight, eager to start screaming her head off. Twilight just stared back, entranced. “Well, Twilight?”

The unicorn shook her head. “Huh? Y-Yeah, why not?” Her eyes started to close once more.

“Hang on, you don't look so good,” Dash said. “Probably wouldn't be too good of an idea.”

“Hey, I'm fine! Does it look like I've been losing sleep?” She smiled at Dash, before realizing the question she asked. “Alright, nevermind.”

“Yeah, go get some rest. I don't want you to start windmilling when you're half-dead.” Rainbow chuckled. “Hey, what are you even doing that's keeping you up? It's gotta be something important, right?”

“Oh, it's just a little something I'll show you soon.” Twilight quickly put a hoof to her mouth. Oh no... This is not good. Stupid, stupid me.

“Really? Awesome, let's hear it!”

“I-I uh...” Twilight stuttered. She jammed a hoof against her head a few times. Much to her surprise, it didn't do anything. “I'm tired, how about I do this here to- next week. Yes, next week.” This really can't get any worse.

“Next week?” Rainbow Dash tilted her eyebrow, before shrugging. “Yeah, sounds good, I'll tell the girls abou-”

“No!” Twilight shouted. “I mean... Why don't you just come alone? That way it's... better?” She bit her lip over how creepy she made it sound.

Rainbow gave a friendly smile. “Look, you don't have to show it to anypony you don't want to. I'll keep it a secret.”

“Y-Yeah, thanks.”

“Alright then, see ya Twilight. Don't want to keep you awake any longer.” Dash turned towards the door.

“Yeah, see you Rainbow Dash.”

She waited until the she heard the door close. A few hoofsteps afterwards, and the sound of another door closing. As soon as she knew it was safe, she shouted to herself. “Oh Celestia! One week? What the hay was I thinking?”

The unicorn paced around nervously, examining her two guitars as if it would help her. “How am I going to do this?” she asked herself, turning to see a flock of birds flying from her window. “Birds... I'll be sure to see her later.”

“Fluttershy?” Twilight knocked on the door. “Are you home?”

A few seconds later, a pegasus appeared behind the unlocked wooden door. She was wearing her white and purple spa-robe. “Twilight, what are you doing here so late?”

The unicorn gave a puzzled look for a while, but quickly understood after shifting her gaze to the moon. “Oh, sorry... Am I keeping you up?”

“It's okay, come in,” she said, watching Twilight as she entered.

Twilight looked down, pacing in front of Fluttershy. “Alright, I know you're wondering why I'm here, but I've got a big problem, and I need your help.”

“What is it, Twilight?”

“You can keep a secret, right?” Twilight nervously attempted to look into Fluttershy's eyes, averting her gaze in a matter of seconds.

The pegasus nodded slowly. “O-Of course. I won't tell anypony.”

“Good,” she said. “I'm planning to play a piece on two of my guitars for somepony, a serenade, if you will.” Fluttershy's eyes widened as she leaned in to hear more. “It's Rainbow Dash.” She paused, waiting for a response. “You're okay with that, right? Please, please, please tell me you are.”

“I'm... I'm fine with that.” Fluttershy found it hard to look at Twilight, but tried to keep a steady voice. “I know it must be important to you, how can I help?”

Twilight grinned, taking in a deep breath. “It's a rock piece, I know she likes those,” she quickly spoke. “If you could get some of your songbirds from your choir to help me out a bit, that'd be wonderful.”

Fluttershy offered a smile to her the unicorn across from her. “Consider it done, Twilight. Anything for a friend.”

“Thank you so much!” Twilight pulled the mare in for a hug. Fluttershy squirmed out of the embrace, blushing. “If there's anything I can do, just ask. Thank you again.”

“Could you...” Fluttershy looked away, running her hoof against the ground. “Could you sing me a lullaby?”

“Uh...” Twilight tilted her head. “Of course. Anything for a friend, right?”

“Thank you, just go to my bedroom, I'll be with you in a while.” Fluttershy quickly ran down the stairs into her basement.

Twilight slowly trotted up the stairs. Of all the favours she could be asked, she didn't expect that at all. Taking a deep breath, she entered Fluttershy's room, neat and modest as it was. She made herself comfortable, tapping a hoof against the ground as she waited. Sooner than anticipated, she heard hoofsteps from the staircase. Twilight's jaw dropped when she saw her.

Fluttershy held a Musk Mustang signature 'Spire Black' Baritone Flying V in her hoof. It had an extended neck, and extravagant artwork on the body. “Alright, you said you play the guitar, right?”

“Yes Fluttershy, but this is...”

“Excellent!” She stuffed the guitar in Twilight's hooves. “Here, I want you to play this. It's something my mother used to always sing to me in Cloudsdale.” She fluttered towards her desk and directed Twilight to a bunch of papers. Tabs. Tabs and lyrics.

Twilight wasn't sure about how she was supposed to be feeling. Not only was she playing on a very expensive signature guitar, but she was singing one of her best friends a 'lullaby'. Fluttershy looked towards her with one of the most blissful expressions she'd ever seen, as if she'd been taken back to the best of her childhood.

Thrown through the front window, a thousand sudden lacerations

Injured and disfigured, life becomes damnation

Cornered like an animal, I struggle to break free

Cannot face the horror of my own mortality

“We are falling into,” Twilight screamed, bending a pinch harmonic to transition. “early, graves!”

Help me I am dying and I cannot see the light

Icy hooves of death reach out and pull me into the night

She screamed once more, still thinking of Fluttershy windmilling. “Nothing ever lasts, you won't last!” She continued to play, her hooves starting to ache from the lack of rest. “The long silence begins...” Twilight watched as Fluttershy started to fall asleep. “You've been shattered!”

When she was finished, Fluttershy's eyes were fully closed, sleeping like an angel. She carefully set the Flying V down on the floor, hopefully clear in sight so it wouldn't get damaged. Twilight crept down the stairs, hoping never to encounter a situation as awkward as that again.

Paradigm

And a new day will dawn for those who stand long

And the forest will echo with laughter

“Rarity, I'm really not so certain you can help me if you can't even hold the guitar.” Twilight sighed, looking down. There were six days left, and she had only covered one of the many problems she encountered the day before.

“Oh please, Twilight,” she smirked. “You know how well I can handle the finer details. I'm fairly sure I'm capable of doing this, and I am not going to leave you in the dark if there's any way I can help.”

Twilight smiled, at least her friends were supportive of her. Fluttershy already knows... Should I tell Rarity? “Alright then, back straight.” She was quick to follow, but her posture with her Whitetail acoustic was still off. “Rest the body against your right thigh, or along your left.” She chose the left, it was expected of her to choose the 'classical' position.

“Is this right?” she turned to ask.

Twilight inspected her briefly, and nodded. “Now that's where I'm having trouble. Whenever I swap guitars, one of them falls to the ground, and the one I'd currently be using is set up really awkward.”

Rarity pondered for a bit, she looked over at both the acoustic, and the Explorer lying on the library floor. Her horn lit up, and the two guitars switched places, only a faint whisper being made in the process.

“Rarity?” Twilight trotted in front of her. The Explorer was right where it should have been. “How did you do that?”

The unicorn looked up, shrugging. “Twilight, I was always skilled like this.” She noticed the unicorn frown. Perhaps she worded that wrong. “But... I do think there's a more efficient way for you to multi-task whilst channelling your magic.”

“That's just what I wanted to hear, show me how!” She grinned, waiting for Rarity to continue.

Rarity used her magic to switch guitars again, the acoustic materializing in her hooves. She got up, handing it over to Twilight who took a seat. “Let's see...” She trotted around the room, thinking of a way to explain her point. Teaching magical concepts wasn't an easy thing.

“I'm sure you've been doing your best to visualize both guitars in your mind, so-”

“Actually...” Twilight interrupted, giggling slightly. “No, I haven't.”

“You haven't?” Rarity cocked an eyebrow. “Well, try it now. Oh, and do take your time.”

Twilight looked at the electric guitar sitting in the corner of her room, and then back at the acoustic resting against her body. As Rarity said, she leisurely imagined the two instruments; every detail that she could without mentally stressing herself. Resuming what she would normally do, the Everfree rested against her, barely out of place, the Whitetail tapping against the ground, making less noise than it usually would.

Rarity leaned her head in, grinning at the other unicorn. “Rarity, this is great! Anything else you'd suggest?”

“Well...” she looked away, bringing a hoof to her chest. “I'm sure that's enough for whatever you plan to use this skill for, which reminds me, why are you doing this again?”

She could trust Rarity, but she was the type of pony who enjoyed gossiping. Maybe she'd know once it was all over, which would be soon given that there were only six days for Twilight to prove herself. “It's... It's nothing really.” Twilight hid her face behind the neck of her guitar. Sometimes, she wished she had a mane like Fluttershy's that she could obscure herself with. “Just in case I decide to join a band? Yes, that's it.”

“Well then, I wish you good luck,” Rarity said, eyeing her suspiciously. Twilight sighed in relief as she saw the white-coated unicorn moving her hoof to pluck a string on the Whitetail. She giggled from the sound, plucking it once more.

“You like it?” Twilight asked, smiling at her friend.

“Of course! Just because I'm a lady, doesn't mean I can't rock hard.”

“Oh, and I'd like to thank you again for singing me that lullaby,” Fluttershy said, walking next to Twilight Sparkle. Her ears perked up soon as she smiled. “You should... You should play me another one!”

Twilight nervously chuckled. “I think I'm good.” She noticed the look of disappointment on Fluttershy's face, causing her to sigh. “Maybe some other time? Besides, I need all the time I can get for that serenade.”

“Oh, right...”

“So, are your birds getting the song down nicely?” Twilight asked, her heart starting to beat faster. “Oh, please tell me they are! I don't have the time to-”

“Twilight, they're doing just fine.” Fluttershy patted her friend with her hoof. “Just a few are falling behind, but everyone learns at different rates, right?” Twilight frowned. “Don't worry, I'm sure they'll catch up.”

The unicorn looked down at her hooves, beating against the ground. She closed her eyes to help relieve some tension, bringing her head back up as she calmed her voice. “I can only hope so. There's still a lot to be done...”

“It's going to be okay, Twilight.” Fluttershy's voice was as soothing as she could make it out to be. While it didn't help much, she appreciated the gesture. “...Which is why we're going to Sugarcube Corner. You need a drummer, don't you?”

Twilight lifted her head, grinning at the yellow mare. “You know one?” She merely nodded as the two entered the building.

A cyan-coated mare called out from behind the counter, “Hello there, dearies, what would you like two like?”

“Hello Mrs. Cake, I'll have a lemon tart. Twilight, do you want anything?”

“No thanks, I'm just here to see the drummer.”

“Twilight, dear.” Mrs. Cake leaned forward to address her. “I haven't seen you in ages. Where have you been?”

The sound of a door bursting open caused all three ponies to look up. “She's been busy practising a song to play for Rainbow Dash so that she'll love he-”

“Pinkie Pie!” Twilight yelled. “Why- Don't just shout it out like that!” Her ears perked up when she heard the sound of tiny hoofsteps scampering away. She hastily spun around, only to see the door swing back and forth. Nopony there...

“Shout what out? How you like Rai-”

“Yes, that!” She shoved a hoof in Pinkie Pie's mouth. “How'd you even find out about that?”

“Oh...” Pinkie tapped a hoof against her chin. “Oh yeah, Fluttershy told me.”

Twilight turned menacingly towards the pegasus who met her gaze. Taking her tart off the counter, she shied away, hiding behind her mane. Mrs. Cake slowly backed away from the drama.

“You said you wouldn't tell anypony.”

“B-But, I had to!” Fluttershy cowered from her gaze. “Pinkie would find out anyway.”

“And why is that so?” she tilted her head, ready to deliver a vulgar display of 'friendship'.

“Well, since she's going to be playing the drums with you, I figured you'd tell her anyway.”

Twilight turned her head, only to stare into Pinkie's face, bearing an unnaturally wide grin.

“Lightning Pink Crusade?” Twilight asked. “That's what you call your drum set?”

“Yep!” Pinkie nodded. “It's identical to Lars Hoofric's, but better, because it's pink!”

Twilight snooped around the many parts of the massive and unorganized drum kit. “Uh... This doesn't look anything like his drum set.” She looked down, seeing two pink bass drums, each with their own respective double-bass pedals. “Pinkie, why do you have double-bass pedals for your double-bass drums?”

“Pinkie says double-bass is too mainstream...” Fluttershy offered. “She uses 'quad-bass'.”

“Yep, I call it... 'Double-double-bass'!”

Twilight brought two hooves to her head taking in a deep breath of air. “How do you even use all four of them?”

“Easy. I put two and two and two and two together, and bam!” She smacked her hooves together for emphasis.

Fluttershy trotted towards Twilight, who was now panicking from her lack of a sane drummer. “Don't worry... Pinkie's a very good drummer, please don't have any doubts, Twilight.”

“Twilight, are you nervous?” Pinkie calmed down.

“Yes Pinkie, I'm nervous. Nervous because we only have six days to get this whole thing down, and we're just starting out. We don't even have a bassist, for Celestia's sake!”

“Bassist?” Fluttershy slowly raised a shaky hoof. “I could play bass, if that's okay...”

“Fluttershy? Really?”

Pinkie nodded. “Yeah, she has all sorts of guitars.”

She fluttered towards another end of the basement, opening a rather large closet door. The other two trailed behind. Twilight's jaw dropped once more when she saw the massive collection of guitars. She had everything: The Baritone Flying V she saw last night; a double neck; a triple neck; seven-string; eight-string; twelve-string; one with a scale length that made it look as big as a full-grown pony.

“Here it is,” Fluttershy said, pulling the electric bass guitar out. It's black finish was very glossy, with thick strings, even for a bass.

“See Twilight? It's all gonna be fine!” Pinkie smiled, and at that moment, Twilight did too. It was time to practice. Time to deliver a hoof-full of metal.

The three of them played as each day burned away. Every hour of practice only drew Twilight closer to her goal, as the two others selflessly devoted their time and soul to Twilight and Rainbow Dash.

Twilight blew out a deep breath as she adjusted her guitar strap. “Alright girls, that's enough for today, we're definitely going to be prepared.”

“Yeah, I'm ready!” Pinkie growled. “So, when are we playing this for Dashie?”

Twilight's expression faded as she seemingly stopped breathing. The two mares walked over, trying to find out what was happening.

Fluttershy prodded her with a hoof. “Twilight? What's wrong?”

“T-Today...” Her lips quivered as she spoke. “W-We're playing it today...”

“Don't be scared Twi', we've had plenty of time!” Pinkie smiled.

“Yes, we're both here for you,” Fluttershy added.

Twilight shook her head. “But what if she's not here for me?” She started to pace around, sweating in addition to that collected over the previous night. That reminds me, I have to shower too. Oh Celestia, I'm a total wreck.

The sound of knocking brought Twilight back to her senses. “Hey, who's that?”

“I'll get it,” Fluttershy said as she scampered up the stairs. The other two followed behind.

“I really hope it's not Rainbow Dash,” Twilight spoke to Pinkie. They watched Fluttershy open the door. Twilight sighed when she saw the orange mare behind it.

“Hello Applejack, is there something you need?”

“Howdy Fluttershy, got a moment?”

“Of course, come in.” Fluttershy motioned.

“Just been meanin' to talk to you 'bout our friend Twi...” Her eyes widened when she bumped into the very mare she was speaking of. She gave her a neutral expression. “...light. How you doin' Twilight?” She nervously chuckled, attempting to play it off.

Pinkie stepped up, causing her to stumble a bit. “Applejack, it's not nice to talk about ponies behind their backs!”

Twilight kept her gaze fixed on the farmer. “What were you going to tell her?”

“I don't have to if you don-”

“They can hear it, I don't mind,” she said.

Applejack sighed, shaking her head. “Alright, my sister told me that you might fancy Rainbow Dash.” She continued when nopony responded. “Told me she heard it at Sugarcube Corner with her Crusader buddies. An' Sweetie Belle's probably gonna tell her sister, so Rarity probably knows too.”

She cleared her throat, subtly backing away from the other three and choosing her words carefully. “Been a long while since I've felt that way 'bout somepony, so I thought I could ask Fluttershy to tell Rainbow Dash to...” She looked towards the door, but then back at Twilight, nodding for her to continue.

“Let you down easy.”

“Applejack!” Fluttershy and Pinkie called out, nearly simultaneously.

Twilight walked closer to Applejack, who backed away, looking at the ground. “You really think that's how it'd turn out, don't you?”

“Twilight, I'm sorry!” she raised her voice. “I just didn't want it to hurt you. You know how lonely you can feel sometimes, you think I want that to happen again?”

Twilight rolled her eyes, sighing emphatically. “Right, I'm a grown mare. I've learned how, so now I can take care of myself.” She whirled around, giving her friend some space. Applejack sighed in relief, before Twilight sharply turned back to her. “I recognize that you care, but... I can do this, myself, alright?” Her voice calmed as she panted for air.

“Alright,” Applejack looked down, closing her eyes as she rested against the wall. “I think I understand. No hard feelings?”

“No hard feelings.” Twilight pulled her in for a hug, which was reluctantly accepted.

The sound of knocking alerted the four friends. They all fell silent.

“Think we all know who that is,” Applejack whispered.

Twilight leaned in close to Applejack, whispering into her ear. “Can you get Rainbow Dash away for a while and bring her back here after? Please?”

“It's the least I can do. How long?”

“Half an hour, that's all we need.” Pinkie nodded as she hid from sight. Fluttershy opened the door, revealing the face Twilight both loved, and dreaded to see in a time like this.

“Goodbye Applejack.” Fluttershy looked away, before turning her gaze back to the pony at the door. “Oh, hello Rainbow Dash.”

Applejack played along, putting on the best poker face she could. “Yep, bye Fluttershy.” She looked surprised when she saw Dash. At least she was trying. “Howdy Rainbow.”

“Yeah hi, seen Twilight in there? She's not anywhere I've been looking.”

“Well uh, she's not here.” Her eyes shifted from side to side as she nervously bit her lip.

Fluttershy peeked her head through the door. “Yes, I'm very sorry Rainbow Dash...”

Dash groaned, rolling her eyes. “Would've thought she'd be here, I've been looking everywhere!”

“Hold on Rainbow, I'll help you look for her. Let's go.” She started walking. Rainbow Dash attempted to say something to Fluttershy, but she impulsively slammed the door shut.

The three remaining ponies stood without making a noise. Hoofsteps could be heard outside, backed by indecipherable chatter. As the noise faded away, the ponies were greeted by a welcome, yet unnerving silence. Twilight quivered in place as fear nearly ripped the consciousness from her.

“Twilight?” Pinkie broke the silence.

“I-It's not going to work out... I-I can't do it.”

The pink mare smiled, opening her mouth, only to change her words. “Hold on to what you've got.” Pinkie sympathetically patted a hoof on the unicorn's shoulder.

Fluttershy offered a comforting hoof. “Twilight? It doesn't make a difference if we make it or not.”

Pinkie nodded, beaming with a bright smile. “We've got each other, and that's a lot!”

“For l-love...” Twilight whispered to herself. She closed her eyes and steeled herself. “We'll give it a shot.” The other two exchanged looks of excitement, as they brought their attention back to her. “Alright, half an hour. We all have to look nice, and I really have to take a shower.”

“Pinkie.”

She straightened her back, saluting. “Yes ma'am!”

“You've got the energy for it, I'm going to need you to move all our equipment up here. Nothing's creepier than 'Come to play in my basement'.” She gave herself a moment to chuckle for split-second, but then shook her head.

“Fluttershy.”

“Yes?”

Twilight spun around to look at the neat and welcoming furniture and tapestry. “This place looks nice already, but if there's anything else you can do to make it look even better, that would be amazing. Now would also be a good time to get your birds warmed up.”

The two ponies firmly nodded as they went about their respective duties. Twilight walked up the stairs, earning some time to recollect herself before the waves would come crashing ashore.

That's it... This whole serenade business has been planned from start to finish, but, it has to be better... No, it's all going to be fine. I can't think any other way, lest I lose it in front of Dash, of all ponies.

Come what may.

Stairways and Serenades

The mare trotted towards Carousel Boutique, alone. Rainbow Dash was not at her side, like she'd expect. A few more hoofsteps, and she found herself knocking on the door.

Rarity was quick to answer it, leisurely motioning with her hoof. “Oh, hello Applejack. Please, do come in.”

“Hey Rarity.” Applejack trotted inside, trying to find some way to distract herself. She looked around as if there were a point in doing so, nothing new caught her attention.

Rarity seated herself on the couch she held lying around in the room. “So, Applejack, does anything new happen to be going on?”

“Well, I don't know where to start...” She sighed, pacing around the room. “Your sister tell you anything?”

Rarity sat back and wiggled around a bit.. “Maybe, I don't suppose you mean...”

Applejack turned her head away, muttering slightly. “Twilight, yeah. Your sister heard?”

“Yes, indeed. Pinkie Pie really needs to quiet down sometimes.”

“Yeah, sometimes...” Applejack smiled, swivelling back to face Rarity. “So, I guess all six of us are gonna find out soon.”

“Six?” Rarity asked. “When did this happen?”

“Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie are helping Twilight out with a serenade.”

“A serenade?” Rarity's eyes lit up as she lifted herself off the couch. “That is so romantic! A-And she asked for my assistance? Go on, please.”

Applejack sighed. “I was supposed to stall Rainbow for half an hour, turns out I'm a really bad liar.”

“Who would have thought?”

“Real funny.” Applejack rolled her eyes. “Well, I think I just made it worse. She looked pretty darn mad to me.”

“Did she now?”

“I've just been thinkin', what if this doesn't work out 'cause of me? Fluttershy and Pinkie are doin' their parts, you mentioned you helped the poor girl out, what about me?”

Rarity promptly moved closer to comfort her friend. “Oh Applejack, please give yourself more credit. Besides, Rainbow would have to find out anyway, what difference does it make if she's bitter about it now?”

Applejack smiled, looking at Rarity who returned a grin of her own. “Heh, I guess you're right.”

“I assume you've stalled her to an appropriate extent?”

She paused for a while before nodding. “Yep.”

“Well, that's just as pivotal as anything the rest of us have been doing. Never devalue your own contribution, Applejack.”

“Makes a lot a' sense. Thanks Rarity.”

“Please, think nothing of it.”

Waiting, and more waiting. As it turned out, half an hour was more than enough time. Applejack must have surely been doing her job well. Twilight held a crimson Maneblaze electric guitar in her hoof, using her magic to have it switch places with the acoustic guitar Fluttershy gave her. Rarity's precision tutoring from last week had not been in vain, as the exchange was smooth.

Though nearly impossible, Pinkie Pie passed the time by twirling a drumstick around with her hoof. The 'Lightning Pink Crusade' had a few of it's unnecessary drums removed, as to make it look less monstrous and more simple. It blended in well with the new tapestry Fluttershy quickly hung up. The lighting in the room had the rims of her toms glow modestly.

Fluttershy spoke quietly and softly to her birds, each one of them nodding in return. They looked beautiful, hopefully it wouldn't be too much for Rainbow Dash to handle. She fluttered in the air, the black bass hanging loosely from its strap. She hovered over to a round table to retrieve her pick before approaching the other two.

“Is everypony ready?” Twilight asked, faking a smile. Because I'm definitely not...

“More than ever,” Pinkie said, simultaneously twirling two drumsticks at a time.

Fluttershy looked back to her songbird choir, all of them tweeted in unison. “We're ready.”

“Alright then, now we wait.” Twilight sighed, she'd spent week of restless practice with them, learning new things in the process. She'd bettered herself in such a short time frame, yet questioned her chance of success. “Before this starts though...” She closed her eyes. “I'd like to thank you both for helping me out, not to mention Applejack and Rarity. You should both know that whether Rainbow feels the same or not, I appreciate it very much.”

Twilight glanced over to the other two. She found it hard to tell if Pinkie was blushing due to her pink coat. Fluttershy simply offered a smile. With that, the three observed their respective instruments. Fluttershy started playing a bassline to warm herself up. Pinkie soon found herself casually drumming along. Before she knew it, Twilight was following along with some chords, breathing softly into the mic in front of her.

The door swung open as a cyan pegasus flew into the room. Air pushed out from beneath her wings, waving the leaves of the few house-plants. The three instantly stopped playing, looking towards her.

Pinkie Pie stood up on her hooves, popping out over her drum kit. “Dashie, you're he-”

“Twilight, what's up with all this?” Rainbow Dash asked.

She stammered, bewildered. “Oh, h-hi Rainbow. What's going on?”

“That's what I'm asking.” She shook her head. “You ask me to keep this a secret, and all of a sudden, Applejack, Fluttershy, and Pinkie are all in on it!” Fluttershy and Pinkie exchanged nervous glances towards one another. Twilight continued to watch Rainbow. “Then what? You make Applejack try and lie to me about something. You know how weak that is?”

“Dash, I-”

“I search everywhere for you, turns out that's not enough, so I have to waste another thirty minutes trying to find out why Applejack's acting so weird!” She ranted, tossing her hooves in the air.

“But I never anticipated that, it was all impulse,” Twilight said. “And... my fault.”

“You know what pisses me off the most?” She brought herself closer to the unicorn, lowering her voice. She was denied a response, only receiving silence. “I give you my full support from all that I know, and you do everything in your power to keep me in the dark about all of this. It's like you don't even trust me.”

“It was meant to be a surprise, Dash. I do trust you!”

“Come on then, whatever happened to that 'Iced Equestria' thing we did last week? That was pretty awesome, right? Why couldn't you ha-”

“Rainbow Dash!” Fluttershy spoke up, clenching the bass harder in her hooves. Twilight closed her eyes, hoping for the best. “She's been trying her hardest to prepare this for you, the least you could do is give her some respect!”

She tilted her head, sighing to herself. “You know what? Yeah, sorry.” She turned back to Twilight. “Just thought you'd realize how happy I was that you were... more metal than I expected.”

“Don't think that way, I understand,” Twilight said. “I only kept it a secret because I thought it'd be better for you. I just want you to enjoy this piece. Please.”

“Sorry for freaking out about the whole deal, just don't think I'm gonna cheer up soon.” Rainbow seated herself, looking over to the three all ready to do what they've practised for the past week. “Alright then, if this is what you've been planning for me, then do your thing.”

Twilight expectantly looked at the other two, and then back to Rainbow Dash. She closed her eyes, getting a feel for the fretboard of her guitar. She could be anything: the songwriter; the perfect guitarist; the new Yngwie Malmsteed; but her goal, was to be with her. Rainbow attempted to offer a slight smile, encouraging in contrast to her previous attitude. Twilight nodded back, and then it kicked in.

Pinkie gave her a four count with the hi-hat, sending a tingle down her spine.

Twilight started on her acoustic guitar, each fret being read out in her mind. The sound of her hoof sliding across the fretboard gave a meek ring. Rainbow Dash's ears perked up as she began to think of where she'd heard the tune before.

A portion of Fluttershy's songbird choir started to sing in accordance with Twilight's playing, causing the yellow mare to give them a subtle nod. More of the birds started to sing as their part began to sound louder. They continued, reaching much higher notes. Rainbow smiled towards the cute avians. She could see why Fluttershy kept them around.

Soon, she returned her gaze back to Twilight, now adjusting herself to sing into the mic. She felt a pang of regret for lashing out on her like that, if she'd put so much work into this. Twilight's voice was soft, in contrast to what she'd expect from the metal-loving unicorn. It was perfect.

There's a lady who's sure all that glitters is gold

And she's buying a stairway to heaven

When she gets there she knows, if the stores are all closed

With a word she can get what she came for

“Ooh, ooh, and she's buying a stairway to heaven,” Twilight sang. Rainbow grinned intensely, getting lost in the performance.

There's a sign on the wall but she wants to be sure

'Cause you know sometimes words have two meanings

In a tree by the brook, there's a songbird who sings

Sometimes all of our thoughts are misleading

Twilight's playing got more intense; more complex. Her hoof began to slide across the fretboard quicker, and the sound of her pick running across the strings offered a natural vibe. Fluttershy began to pick the strings on her bass as her songbirds birds sung in a lower range.

“Ooh, it makes me wonder,” Twilight reminisced all the times she had watched Rainbow Dash fly from the comfort of her balcony. Some ponies would speak out against that, but who were they to judge? “Ooh, it makes me wonder...” She could be anything she wanted.

There's a feeling I get when I look to the west

And my spirit is crying for leaving

In my thoughts I have seen rings of smoke through the trees

And the voices of those who stand looking

Twilight's horn began to glow. The Maneblaze started to play by itself, surrounded by a lavender glow. “Ooh, and it makes me wonder.” Rainbow watched as Twilight tensed up, struggling to concentrate on two guitars at once, in addition to vocals. “Ooh, really makes me wonder...”

And it's whispered that soon if we all call the tune

Then the piper will lead us to reason

And a new day will dawn for those who stand long

And the forest will echo with laughter

Rainbow Dash picked herself up, getting closer to the unicorn. Twilight found herself further losing concentration, almost making a lot of mistakes. How could she focus though, when she was getting closer? Her, the mare she'd been thinking of for so long; the reason she was playing there in the first place. Dash was quick to take the mic into her hooves. Pinkie excitedly started up on the drums.

If there's a bustle in your hedgerow, don't be alarmed now,

It's just a spring clean for the May Queen

Yes, there are two paths you can go by, but in the long run

There's still time to change the road you're on

Twilight was impressed by Dash's vocals. She looked over to Fluttershy, rocking out on her bass. “And it makes me wonder.” The pegasus grinned, bobbing her head along with the music. Twilight watched as she moved gracefully. Once more did she find herself slipping. Keeping her eyes fixed on the guitar, she tried to ignore her. How could she though, if that was the whole reason she was playing?

Your head is humming and it won't go, in case you don't know

The piper's calling you to join him

Dear lady, can you hear the wind blow, and did you know

Your stairway lies on the whispering wind

Twilight's horn lit up even brighter, her acoustic being replaced with the Maneblaze, now hanging from her shoulders by it's strap. It was a nearly perfect exchange. The acoustic was left untouched as Twilight played the interlude, hooves sliding back and forth across the neck. She was getting ready for the solo, ready to pour her heart out to the music, and for Dash.

She began playing it only using her hooves. She gave herself some time to recuperate for the magical loss she'd recently experienced. It didn't last for long though, as her horn lit itself once more, manipulating the strings by it's nimble force.

She started shredding harder and faster than she'd ever done before. She'd always made mistakes during the practices, as she slipped up a few times right there. There was no room to dwell on mistakes though, only to make the rest perfect for Dash, who watched in awe as Twilight picked a series of notes very quickly.

At that moment, she knew she was doing it right. As long as Rainbow Dash enjoyed it... As Twilight ended the solo with many pull-offs, Rainbow held the mic back up to her mouth.

And as we wind on down the road

Our shadows taller than our soul

There walks a lady we all know

Who shines white light and wants to show

How everything still turns to gold

And if you listen very hard

The tune will come to you at last

When all is one and one is all, yeah

Rainbow Dash leaned back, letting her lungs empty themselves. “To be a rock and not to roll!” They slowed down, it was about to be over now. All those hours of practice, it's purpose was coming to an end.

Just a bit longer...

“Twilight...” Rainbow Dash looked down as she trotted from Fluttershy's cottage alongside the unicorn. It was dark out, but calm. Twilight found it to be a perfect contrast to the raging tides a few minutes ago.

“Yes?” she smiled. She'd felt success before; accomplishment, but never as big as this. She could say it was comparable to being accepted into Celestia's School For Gifted Unicorns, but this was perhaps better.

The pegasus got up and gave her a very tight hug. “That was amazing!”

“Heh, yes. You've said that four times already.” Twilight blushed. In honesty, she didn't mind.

“I know, I know, just can't get over it.” The pegasus shook her head. “So, you guys just do that for fun? Like, I know you kept it a secret from me, but I'm cool with that.”

Does she still not understand? Twilight looked away. “Well, not exactly...”

“Hey, well... Why'd you play it then?”

Twilight paused for a moment, Dash stopped walking as well. She stared at the ground, and then back into Rainbow Dash's eyes. They were beautiful to her, her lips, her wings, everything about her. A week had passed so that something like this could happen. Yet, why was it so hard to do it now? She looked up towards the stars, the moon, the trees swaying in the distance. It was perfect, yet the bead of sweat trickling down the back of her neck was very real. She lifted her head back up, forgetting everything that held her down.

The unicorn turned to press her lips against Dash's. Her eyes widened momentarily, but she found herself closing them soon after, wrapping her hooves around Twilight. The two lost themselves in one another, letting the wind blow freely around them.

Twilight broke the kiss, looking down. Her lips quivered, the words failing to come out of her mouth.

“Twilight?” Rainbow asked, putting a hoof around the mare. “So... All this time? The lack of sleep, the guitars, all that... For me?”

“Y-Yes, a serenade.” Her gaze shifted from Dash, she closed her eyes and spoke softly. “I just couldn't help it when I found out we had that in common...” She ran a hoof against the ground. “Thought that it'd be my only chance to tell you how I feel.”

Rainbow Dash looked at her expectantly. Twilight managed to gather the resolve to look back. “I-I love you Rainbow Dash. I just want to know if... if you feel the same way.”

For once, Rainbow found herself losing her ability to ass her way through a situation. No way to play it off, only humility; honesty. “Twilight, I can't say I'm sure... I've been thinking, but I don't believe I've loved anypony who actually...” She stopped herself there, looking at the mare across from her.

Twilight's eyes filled themselves with tears, gazing directly into Rainbow's beads of rose. She closed her eyes and took to her hooves, galloping along the road. Dash sat down, defeated, watching her fade into the night. Shaking her head, she flapped her wings open, shooting through the air.

“Twilight,” she said, hovering next to the unicorn. “Please, please stop this!” Trees passed by in her vision, wings beating against air, hooves beating against the ground.

“No, you know I can't!” she cried out, sprinting as fast as her heart would allow her.

Dash wasn't sure how long she would go for, but if she had to guess, she'd have to say that Twilight could have been trying to outrun her, of all things. “Come on, Twi', this is gonna last forever!”

“You heard me already, I'm not stopping!” Twilight continued to gallop, and sooner than they thought, they were now in Ponyville, the outskirts stretching from behind them.

A stallion and his marefriend watched as Dash followed the frantic unicorn. Fading discretely away from the scene.

“Twilight, please. I want to talk.”

Twilight found herself giving out. Her heart churned as she continued to push herself. Her legs ached, and her chest heaved breath after breath. Dash furrowed her eyebrows, moving farther from Twilight's side. She made her descent, swooping down and tackling her. The two rolled into the slums of Ponyville.

Twilight angrily tried to get up, the weight of Rainbow Dash's body holding her down. “Dash, I don't want to-”

“Shh, It's okay, Twilight.” She stroked the unicorn's mane with a gentle hoof. “I didn't mean for that to happen.”

Twilight opened her mouth to say something, but broke down once more, tears flowing down her face.

“Don't you cry tonight...” She continued to comfort her. “There's a heaven above us both.” She got up, giving Twilight some space.

“I-I can't...”

“Twilight,” Rainbow said. “I don't want you to stay like this. I care for you, I really do. It's just that every time I think I've loved somepony, I've just been lying to myself.”

The unicorn continued to whimper. Rainbow Dash looked down, continuing. “I don't think I've felt this way about anypony, but... I just want you to be happy, even if I'm not.”

“Rainbow Dash?” she asked, now taking in deeper breaths of air. The pegasus looked up. “It's alright, you don't have to try and make me feel better.” She managed to speak momentarily, sniffling in the process.

“Hey, don't say that. It's the truth.” She walked next to Twilight, the two heading back to the library. “That's how I honestly feel, I want to spend more time with you, you've got to believe me!” She received no response. She herself grew frantic, hoping not to blow her own chance.

“Look, the serenade, that was beautiful.” Twilight turned her head away. “But that's not why I like you... I like you, because you're different. You did something to set yourself apart from the rest, how many other ponies do you know would reach the level you did back there?”

“I don't know, Dash.” Twilight continued to walk, paying no attention to her surroundings. She just wanted to get back home. To go to bed, and forget that this happened; to forget the guitars she loved, the music she played, everything.

“Well, not a lot. Sure, I may not know how I feel, but that doesn't mean we don't have a chance.”

Twilight looked back at Rainbow Dash, still trying to remain bitter, yet failing her own intentions. “You think so?”

She took in a deep breath. “The thing is, if I'm willing to lose so much of myself to make you happy... Then maybe that is how I feel about you. Maybe I wouldn't be lying to myself after all.”

The two mares stood outside the library, the lights were all off.

“Spike's probably already asleep. You want to come inside?” She received only a nod as she entered and turned on the lights. “Oh, and I'm sorry for... losing it back there.”

“Come on Twilight, there's no need to blame yourself.” Rainbow nuzzled Twilight, who sadly looked down at her own hooves. “Listen, I may have claimed I don't know how I feel, but I just don't want to hurt you, just in case...” She looked into Twilight's eyes, holding her hoof. “I think this is real though. Now I'll ask you, do you feel the same way?”

“Of course Rainbow Dash, I know so.”

Rainbow smirked. “That's what I wanted to hear.”

Twilight moved a hoof along her back. “Just can't believe we've come so far. I've gone from... From watching you, to being here with you tonight.”

“I know Twilight, and I'm real proud of you.”

“Not just me though. All of us,” Twilight said. “Do you think I'd have the courage without the other girls? I have to thank them just as much as myself.”

Dash scratched the back of her neck. “Yeah, I guess I should do the same. I really don't think it can get better than this.”

Twilight tilted her head, pulling her hoof away from the pegasus. “Aren't you... What about that whole, 'lying to yourself' part?”

“Screw that, it was just the shock of that kiss. I know how I'm feeling right now, trust me.”

The two fell silent, standing next to each other. Rainbow Dash put a hoof around Twilight's shoulder. “You know, I'm sorry for freaking out earlier at Fluttershy's place.”

Twilight nuzzled the pegasus, who blushed in return. “Well, it just shows you cared.”

They shared yet another moment of silence together, Twilight resting her head on Dash's shoulder. She gently stroked Twilight's mane. “It's been a really long day, you know...”

“It has been,” Twilight replied. “So, do I get any reward, love?”

Dash wrapped both of her hooves around her, tilting her head and pressing her lips against Twilight's. She was driven to a state of euphoria, the days of restlessness finally paying off. She caressed Rainbow Dash, returning the kiss for as long as she could hold it.

“Good enough?”

Twilight licked her lips, grinning widely. “Perfect.”

“Yeah, well, it's getting pretty late.” She looked up towards the clock. “Well, way late.”

“Going already?” Twilight asked, slightly disappointed. Dash shrugged in response. “I'll see you tomorrow, right?”

“Pfft, you kidding me?” Rainbow Dash asked. “Of course! See you Twilight, stay metal.” She walked towards the door, turning briefly. “...And stay just the way you are.” Twilight didn't move an inch as Rainbow Dash walked out the door. She gave herself a bit to breath, slumping down on the couch from her exhaustion.

A long day, a long week, even the month was full of new emotions; new limits. Twilight propped herself back up to cherish what she had. She sung softly, sealing her place in Rainbow Dash's heart for as long as she could sing.

And she's buying a stairway to heaven