Wings for a Pony: Becoming Mommyby Brawney HoovesChaptersLife ChangesLost and FoundOne WordAll In Good FunRainbow Dash the WonderboltEpilogue: Sweet as CiderEarth Ponies Don't FlyLife ChangesRainbow Dash was soaring through the air, enjoying the wind in her face. Her ears however were filled with the sound of childish laughter from the colt that was secured safely in her saddle bag. Dash was now the mother of an abandoned earth pony she found in the Everfree Forest, which she had decided to name Clay. She wasn’t too happy with the idea, but she couldn’t stand the thought of leaving the child at Ponyville orphanage, and her friends had their own families to take care of. So the responsibility fell on her shoulders whether she wanted it or not. Dash was not looking forward to what this would mean for her, between cutting into her exercise and training, and the time she would spend outside. Not to mention that she was still missing her cloud home, she had to move out since the little pony couldn’t even live with her unless she moved to the ground. She hated the whole thing, she was starting to feel tied to the ground between her new less awesome home and the foal in her care. Flying was in her blood, she needed the wind under her wings, and the thought of being on the ground and watching an infant was stressful to the pegasus. Thankfully she could still fly when she really needed it, and to her surprise the baby actually seemed to enjoy flying with her. Dash was used to earth ponies wanting to keep their hooves on the ground, so the fact that Clay actually wanted to be with her in the sky was a relief. Feeling like she got her fix, Dash descended to the ground and began trotting to Sweet Apple Acres to talk with Applejack. She found the cowpony doing what she did best, bucking apples from the orchards. “Careful AJ, you don’t want to pull something!” “Hardy har har.” Applejack said mockingly. Dash walked up to her friend, as Applejack wiped her brow and looked to the pegasus. “So what brings you here, Rainbow? Need some cider?” She shook her head. “No, I just needed some air time is all. Plus Clay was having trouble sleeping.” “What's that got to do with anything?” “You wouldn’t believe it, but the only thing that will put this little guy to sleep is if I take him flying.” “Well that’s odd.” Applejack said, raising an eyebrow. “Yeah. I don’t mind though, he goes to sleep and I get some flying in.” “Well I’m glad you found somethin' that works for both of ya'.” Applejack was starting to head back to the barn when Rainbow spoke. “Wait! There is another reason I came here.” “And that is?” “Spitfire wants me at Cloudsdale, and Twilight's in Canterlot. I was hoping you could watch Clay while I’m gone?” “Why of course Rainbow, I’d love tah take care of the little young'un.” “Thanks, I’ll be back at six!” She handed Clay off to Applejack and started to fly away when they both heard a small whine. The two fillies looked to see baby Clay awake and reaching his two front hooves to Dash. “I’ll be back kid, I promise.” With that, Dash flew into the air heading towards Cloudsdale. As Dash disappeared Clay began to cry, large tears falling down his face. “Shhhh. It’s okay Clay momma’s comin' back soon. In the meantime you get to spend time with yer Aunt Applejack.” As Applejack comforted Clay he stopped crying, but was still sniffling slightly. “Besides,” She went on, “She can’t be gone too long, right? She said she’d be back at six and its three right now. She’ll be back before you know it.” 8 Hours Later: “I’m goin' to kill Rainbow when she gets back.” Applejack muttered as she sat outside with Clay in her front legs as he slept soundly for the first time in hours. The night sky was making it hard for Applejack to see, but eventually she saw a Pegasus silhouetted across the moon. Dash came down gracefully and approached the earth pony. “Thanks AJ, you’re a lifesaver.” “Where the hay have you been?” “Well first I had to do training with the Wonderbolts, like always, and then…” “Then what?” Applejack snapped, obviously irritated. “Then we headed out for a party! You know how I like a good party.” “You stayed there for five hours, when you knew darn well ya had a foal waitin' for you back at the farm!” “I tried to leave early, but then Soarin came up and…we started talking and we had a few drinks.” Applejack glared at Dash. “Rainbow, bein' a mother is about thinkin' about somepony other than yourself. This colt needs a mother and if you aren’t gonna take this seriously, I’ll have to take him.” Dash’s eyes widened, and a smile formed on her face. “Really, you’d do that? Thanks AJ, you're the best friend a filly could have.” Applejack blinked. “Now wait just a doggarn minute! You agreed to be this foal’s mother. I promise to help, Rainbow, but you have tah hold your end of the bargain.” “Just because I “agreed” to be this kids mom doesn’t mean I can’t have fun every once in a while!” “No, but yah can’t just ignore him completely. He can’t take care of himself yet, Dash. He needs you to help him.” “Well it’s not my fault that he was abandoned! I just found him and brought him to safety, how is this my responsibility?” “He became your responsibility the moment you said yes!” “Only because you guys pressured me into doing it, by saying that it had to be me!” “Yah could have said no!” “Well, I’m saying no now. I don’t want him!” “There is no way in Equestria that you are just dumpin' this foal on me, Rainbow, just because you don’t wanna be responsible!” “Well, I’m not letting him go to that orphanage, so it has to be either you or one of the others!” “Why can't yah just think of somepony else for a change!” “BECAUSE I DON’T WANT TO MESS HIM UP!” The two ponies fell silent for the first time in a minute and looked at each other, startled. “Why would you think that you would mess him up, Sugarcube?” Applejack asked, even more surprised to see tears filling Rainbows eyes. “I…I…I don’t want to screw up his life, AJ.” Dash sat down on her haunches and continued to cry. “I…I know I’m not the motherly type. Let’s face it, if I have to choose between going out with Soarin and changing diapers, I’m going with the date. What if…what if I do something stupid and he gets sick or hurt? I don’t…I don’t know if…” The tears came more steadily as Applejack walked over and sat next to Dash. “Rainbow…I know bein' a mom can be scary, shoot I felt like mah own mother when I was rasin' Applebloom. It was all happenin' so fast I thought I was never goin' to be able to enjoy myself again. And I know that your own experiences with parenting haven’t been the most pleasant. But let me tell you that if you are this concerned for the baby's future and health, then ah say you’re already on the right track.” Dash looked to Applejack, wiping the tears from her face. “But…what if I can’t handle it? What if it becomes too much, and I just drop him off someplace with nothing but a note? What if I become like my dad and just leave and never come back?” She buried her face in her hooves hiccupping slightly. “You won’t, because ah know you won’t. You’re the element of loyalty, and ah know you’re going to raise that foal to be a fine stallion one day.” She placed a hoof on Rainbows shoulder. “And if you do decide to leave him I’ll be right there to set you straight.” Dash looked to her friend and smiled. “Thanks, AJ.” “You’re welcome.” As the two fillies exchanged smiles, Clay woke up and began to whine slightly. “Ah think he wants his momma.” She handed Clay over to Dash who cradled him with her two front legs. “Hey Clay. You ready to go home?” The baby giggled in response. Dash placed Clay into her saddle bag and placed it on her back, spreading her wings. “Thanks AJ I really owe you one.” “Just takin' care of that baby will be enough thanks.” Dash nodded and took off into the night sky, leaving Applejack watching them disappear. “You can do it Rainbow…I know you can.” Applejack tilted her Stanton hat and began walking back to the barn to get some well-earned rest. Back in Ponyville a rainbow pegasus with her earth pony colt were doing the same. Lost and FoundThe usual quiet of the Carousel Boutique was replaced by the sounds of a rather distraught colt as he tried to keep away from his Aunt Rarity. “Clay, please stay still! I have to take your measurements!” Rarity frowned as she tried to get her measuring tape across his small body. Clay's only response was more squirming and crying. “Clay, dear, I know you don’t like to wear clothes but you must look presentable for the princess’s arrival.” Clay simply made a raspberry at her. “Sweetie Belle! Be a dear and try to keep Clay still long enough that I can get the proper measurements.” She shouted struggling with the colt. “I’m on it, Sis!” Sweetie Belle ran up to her sister and Clay trying to think of a way to make him stay still. “Hmmm, I could use my magic to hold him still.” “Sweetie Belle, you are still learning! I’d rather not have you use magic on a living creature until you have it mastered. We don’t want to hurt our little nephew do we?” As Rarity spoke Clay grabbed Rarity’s hair and gave a firm tug.“Ow! Clay, that hurt!” Clay giggled at her discomfort. “Oh, I do hope that Rainbow Dash gets here soon. I love Clay, but he can be such a handful.” Clay gave another tug. No sooner had the words left her mouth that they heard the front door bell ring. And in walked Rainbow Dash with Scootaloo. “Hey Rarity how are things with Clay?” “They could *ow* be *ow* better!” Rarity gave a pleading look to her friend. “Please make him stop before he rips something out!” Dash and Scootaloo chuckled at Rarity’s obvious discomfort. She then walked over to Clay and gave him a stern look. “Clay sit still now.” She said in a low tone. As if by magic, Clay stopped pulling on his Aunt's mane and sat down quietly while looking up at her with a blank stare. Dash smirked while Sweetie Belle and Rarity stared in amazement. “How did you get him to stop?” Rarity questioned. “He knows that I’m in charge.” Dash turned to the others. “You just have to be assertive, tell him what you want him to do, look him straight in the eye and…” “Rainbow…he’s gone.” Scootaloo interrupted. “What!” Dash spun around and sure enough Clay was nowhere to be seen. “Clay…Clay…Clay come on out I don’t have time for games!” Dash looked around franticly her chest starting to tighten. “Did any of you guys see where he went!?” They all shook their heads. “Come on help me look!” Dash, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, and Rarity galloped around the boutique looking under every pile of fabric and every room of the building. After five minutes of searching they couldn’t find a single trace of him. As they met up in the center of the boutique Dash was starting to panic when her friends and protégée turned up empty hooved. “Oh no…oh no….oh no…” Dash began to hyperventilate. “Rainbow, calm down. I’m sure that Clay is here somewhere. The front door is locked so he couldn’t have left the building.” Rarity said. “Uh…actually, I didn’t shut the door.” Scootaloo replied rubbing the back of her head. “Oh Celestia! I’m going to look for him outside! Rarity, Sweetie Belle, you stay here and keep looking! Scootaloo you’re going to help me look!” Without a word Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo ran outside and took to the sky. The day ticked by and neither Rainbow, nor Scootaloo had found Clay in Ponyville, nor had anypony seen him. Rainbow returned to the Boutique downcast and sick with worry. “Please tell me you guys found him?” Dash said begging. “I’m sorry Rainbow we didn’t find him anywhere.” Rarity said sorrowfully. Dash fell back on her haunches and looked to the ground distraught. “I can’t believe this is happening.” She sounded like she was on the verge of tears. Rarity walked over to Dash trying to think of something to comfort her friend, but she knew that the only way to make Dash feel better was to find her son. As the ponies all hung their heads in depression, the front door bell rang and Rarity walked over to open the door. “Rainbow Dash! You will not believe this!” Rarity shouted in disbelief. Rainbow turned her head, and to her amazement she saw Princess Celestia herself with a little yellow foal clinging to her neck. “Clay!” Rainbow Dash ran to them, leaving a small rainbow trail behind her, and took the baby in her arms. “Oh Clay, I was so worried! Don’t ever scare me like that again!” Dash peppered his face with small kisses, forgetting that the Princess was even there. “This foal is yours, Rainbow Dash?” Celestia said surprised. “Uh, yeah I’m taking care of him…how did you find him your highness?” “I was making my way to the celebration for my arrival when I spotted this colt wandering the streets.” Celestia nuzzled against Clays face, and he gave a small giggle. “I started looking around town and asked if they knew who his mother was, but everypony was too busy groveling to notice the infant. So I decided that maybe one of the elements would be able to give me a straight answer. I stopped by the Carousel Boutique to see Rarity and, well you know the rest.” Dash’s face fell. She hung her head in shame. “You must think I’m a horrible parent.” “Rainbow Dash everypony makes mistakes, and parents are no exception. The important thing is that you learn something from that mistake.” Celestia gave a reassuring smile. “I have Princess. I’m going to pay more attention to this little guy.” She nuzzled her face against Clay's smiling. “And maybe put a bell on him next time.” The others gave a small chuckle. “Well, now that everything has ended on such a happy note, why don’t we go attend that celebration?” Dash and the others nodded in agreement and they left the Boutique, ready to enjoy themselves. They all wore smiles on their faces, but none where as happy as Rainbow's. She had learned something important that day. She learned that she loved Clay more than she thought she did, and that just like flying, being a good parent would take time and practice. And since she was already an ace flier, she knew that someday she would make an ace mom. One Word“Rainbow Dash.” Rainbow said, looking at the young colt as he sucked his hoof. “Rain. Bow. Dash.” She repeated slowly. Clay continued to look at her. “Come on Clay, you’re three years old now. You need to at least say one word.” Dash looked at her son and got no response. “Ugh, well we can try again later. I promised to drop you off with Pinkie and the Cake twins.” She picked up Clay and placed him in her saddle bag before leaving her home and taking off into the sky. Within seconds she landed outside of the front entrance of the gingerbread-like building. Dash walked in and was greeted by the friendly smile of Mrs. Cake, with both foals in a foal-pack. “Rainbow Dash! It’s so good to see you here.” “Thanks, Mrs. Cake. Is Pinkie here? I need to drop off Clay.” “She’s in the back filling in an order, but I’ll let her know you’re here.” Mrs. Cake walked to the back of the room with her two children while Dash placed Clay on the floor. “Now I need you to be good while I’m away, alright?” Clay giggled. “I’ll take that as a yes…can you say yes?” Clay opened his mouth and Rainbow watched in anticipation, but it soon vanished when all he did was belch. “Oh well.” She sighed. Soon after Pinkie Pie came in bouncing with joy with the twins on her back. “Hi Dashie! Hi Clay!” She said with a little too much enthusiasm. “Hey Pinkie. You sure you can handle three foals at once?” Pinkie waved a dismissive hoof. “Of course I can. And besides I have Mr. and Mrs. Cake around if I really need help.” Rainbow arched an eyebrow. “Well, if you’re sure.” “It’ll be fine Dashie, really!” “Alright. Bye Clay, be good for Pinkie Pie.” Rainbow started to walk away when she heard a small whine. She turned around to see Clay reaching for her. “Man, you’re clingy.” Dash walked over and nuzzled Clay’s face causing him to coo. Dash repeated her goodbye and left the building. Rainbow sat on a nearby cloud, trying to enjoy her free time, but she found that no matter how hard she tried she couldn’t relax. She kept thinking about Clay not being able to talk. “It’s been three years, he should have at least learned one word by now.” She groaned and fell onto her back. “I mean everypony else’s baby can talk, hell the Cake twins could talk within a month.” Dash lifted herself up and looked at the ground. “Am I doing something wrong?” Realizing that taking a nap on a cloud was not going to happen she flew from the cloud and landed softly on the ground. She looked around trying to find something to take mind off things. As she did she spotted Ditzy Doo delivering the mail, and as she did Rainbow had an idea. “Hey Ditzy!” Ditzy waved back to her. “Can I talk to you when you get a minute?” Ditzy nodded. “Meet me at the Flower Petal.” With that Dash flew away once more. Rainbow waited outside the Flower Petal, a small restaurant that she would stop by every once in a while. As she waited she saw the gray yellow wall-eyed pegasus approach. “Thanks for coming Ditzy.” “Sure Rainbow Dash. What do you want to talk about?” “Well…I know that you have been raising Dinky by yourself. And she seems to be okay with that.” Ditzy raised an eyebrow. “I was wondering how do you do it?” “Do what?” Ditzy replied. “Raise a kid by yourself while you have a job.” “Well you’re raising Clay by yourself, and you’re a Wonderbolt.” “I mean how do you know you’re doing it right? Is there some kind of book you’re reading?” Ditzy chuckled. “Rainbow Dash, none of the books out there will tell you how to be a good parent. It’s all instinct.” “But I don’t have that instinct. I may be raising him, but he’s not my son.” Rainbows face fell. “My mother told me that when mothers hold their kid that there's this special link they develop, that a mother can feel it all the time…I don’t feel it with Clay.” “You do love him right?” “Of course I love him. What kind of question is that?” Rainbow snapped. “Well then, you have nothing to worry about.” Dash looked confused. “You may not feel it now because you didn’t give birth to him. But every good mother feels that connection with their child. Some mares just get it later than others.” Rainbow looked uncertainly at the mailmare. “But…how do I know when it happens?” Ditzy gave a warm smile. “Trust me when the time comes…you’ll know.” Ditzy said goodbye, returning to her mail route as Dash realized that she had to pick up Clay soon. Rainbow Dash returned to Sugarcube Corner and found Pinkie Pie playing with Clay. “Hey Pinkie…where are the twins?” “Oh I put them to bed an hour ago. Clay didn’t want to sleep, so I thought I’d try to tire him out.” Dash chuckled. “You can’t wear Clay out. That colt’s got almost as much energy as you.” Dash called Clay over and he ran to her. Dash picked him up and hugged him tightly while Clay buried his head in her chest. Then to the surprise of both Rainbow and Pinkie, he spoke. “Mommy.” Dash went wide eyed as Pinkie gasped, “Oh my gosh his first word! This is the greatest play date ever!” Dash looked down at the colt nuzzling her and to her embarrassment tears began to escape her eyes. She finally felt it that invisible link that her mother had told her about. She felt as though she could tell exactly what he was feeling, and that feeling made her feel warm and happy inside. Dash took Clay home and placed him in his crib. As Clay yawned and began to fall asleep, Dash wore a motherly smile and ruffled his mane slightly. Dash walked to her room and got settled into her bed. As she slept the smile may have left her face. . . but it never left her heart, and it never would for as long as she lived. All In Good FunThe autumn air was cold as the wind rushed past the trees, scattering the leaves left on the ground. Usually on days like this all the citizens of Ponyville would be inside trying to keep warm. Tonight, however, was no ordinary night. This was Nightmare Night. And for a certain rainbow maned Pegasus, it was the perfect night to pull one of her best pranks. The only thing holding her back was Clay, who was about to experience Nightmare Night for the first time. “Come on Clay, we’re burning daylight here!” Dash called to her son as she tapped a hoof on the ground slightly irritated. “Uh…I don’t know about this mommy.” Said a small voice from behind the bedroom door. “Everypony celebrates Nightmare Night. It’s tradition.” “But everypony will look scary.” “Clay, they're still the same ponies you know from Ponyville. They just look different.” Clay wasn’t convinced. He sat on his bed looking out his window at all the ponies in costume walking through the street. Clay hated being scared, and the fact that there was a whole day dedicated to a magical alicorn that would eat him if he didn’t offer candy didn’t really help in the slightest. “Come on Clay. You get candy…you do still like candy, don’t you?” “Yes.” “And you don’t want Nightmare Moon to gobble you up, do you?” “N-no!” “Well then get your costume on so we can go.” Clay sighed and got off the bed to get on his costume which was a poorly made Wonderbolt jumpsuit with fake wings on the back and goggles without lenses. Clay stretched the goggles over his eyes and left his room and headed down stairs where he found his mother waiting by the door. “Now that is the cutest Wonderbolt in all of Equestria.” Dash said, trying to boost his confidence. Clay smiled, but was soon startled by a knock at the door. Dash opened it to reveal Pinkie Pie in her chicken costume, with two colts and two fillies, one of whom he recognized as Dinky. “Aunt Pinkie Pie!” Clay ran up to give Pinkie a tight hug. “Hiya Clay! You ready to go get some candy?” “Y-yeah…um Aunt Pinkie…there aren’t any real monsters outside, are there?” “No of course not! Well, except for Nightmare Moon, but as long as we give her candy she won’t gobble us up like cupcakes, or cookies, or maybe even…” Pinkie stopped when she saw the glare that Rainbow was giving her. “Uh…don’t worry Clay, you’ll be safe with your Aunt Pinkie Pie.” Clay looked back at Rainbow with a confused expression. “Why aren’t you wearing a costume mommy?” “Heh, I’m not really into the candy stuff anymore. I’m just going to stay home tonight.” Clay’s eyes widened. “You're…you’re not coming?” “Sorry Clay, but I’m a little too old for that stuff.” Clay’s eyes began to glisten. “But I wanted to spend Nightmare Night with you, mommy.” Dash’s face fell as she saw her son’s eyes filling with tears. She walked up to him and placed a hoof on his shoulder. “I’ll tell you what. You go with Pinkie Pie and I’ll see if I can catch up with you later okay?” “Okay mommy.” Clay wiped the tears from his eyes. Dash smiled and ruffled his mane. “Now behave, and have fun.” “I will mommy!” Clay ran off and joined Pinkie and the others. Dash went back inside the house and gave a wicked grin as she went to a trunk in the living room and pulled out a Shadowbolt jumpsuit. This one wasn’t like the one she wore when Princess Luna made her first appearance. This jumpsuit was the real thing, she had won it in a bet with a real Shadowbolt, and she was dying to use it as her costume tonight. Dash hadn’t technically lied to Clay, she wasn’t doing this for candy. But she was doing this to have fun. Dash flew to her room and donned the jumpsuit, then placed the yellow lensed goggles over her eyes. Dash loved being a Wonderbolt, but she had to admit, as she inspected herself in the mirror, that dressing up as a Shadowbolt made her look cool, even scary in the right light. Unlike the navy blue that the Wonderbolts wore, the Shadowbolts preferred the colors black and purple, and the logo itself was a skull and crossbones pattern. Dash grinned as she finished admiring herself, and flew down the stairs and out the door. “This going to be fun.” She thought as she soared over the clouds. Dash had it all worked out. As soon as the nearest group of ponies walked right under her storm cloud, all she had to do was give it a good kick and the thunder would scare the horse apples out of them. It was an old prank sure, but it was always good for a laugh, and besides it was all in good fun, wasn’t it? Dash hid in the black cloud as she heard the sound of hoof steps approach, and she waited for the right moment. She listened as the sounds drew closer…closer…closer. She picked her moment and gave the storm cloud a hard kick. She was rewarded with a loud crack of thunder and the sound of screaming. Dash fell on her back laughing hysterically. “This prank is still funny!” Dash caught her breath and looked over the cloud to see if the ponies had either run or wet themselves. Her eyes widened when she saw Pinkie and the colts and fillies she was watching. She looked to the group and saw a tiny colt wearing a Wonderbolt jumpsuit. “Clay.” Dash’s heart began to sink as she saw him curled into a little ball on the ground, whimpering. Dash landed on the ground and approached him, but before she could calm him down he let out a loud scream. “No don’t eat me!” Clay shouted at the Shadowbolt, tossing his candy at Dash. He ran as fast as he could towards home. “Clay wait!” Dash took off after him and soon found him banging on the door of their house. “Mommy, let me in, please! Nightmare moon is going to eat me! Please don’t let her get me, Mommy!” Dash landed behind the terrified colt and grabbed him, causing Clay to scream and kick begging for his life. “Clay calm down, it's me, mommy!” “Mommy?” Clay stopped kicking and looked back at the Shadowbolt. She placed him on the ground and removed her goggles and hood. Clay looked at her, confused and scared. “Why…why did you scare me, Mommy?” “I…I didn’t mean to scare you Clay, it was just a prank.” “A…prank?” “Yeah you know a joke. It was supposed to be funny.” Clay looked like he was on the verge of tears. “It wasn’t funny, Mommy. It was scary. I thought you were going to eat me.” “Clay, I didn’t mean to scare you. I’m…I’m sorry.” Clay backed away slightly, looking down at the ground. “You were really scary, Mommy.” “I know…I’m sorry, Clay.” Dash walked up to him and placed a hoof on his shoulder. Clay looked up at her and then hugged her tightly, and Dash returned the embrace. She felt sick for scaring Clay so badly. The prank was supposed to be all in good fun. But no prank, no matter how funny it was to her, was worth seeing her son so upset and frightened. “I want to go home.” He sobbed. “Okay.” Dash whispered as she began gently stroking his mane. Clay released Dash and then realized something. “Oh no! I forgot to give Nightmare Moon my candy! Now she’s going to gobble me up!” Clay began to cry again, and Dash’s heart began to break. “That won’t be necessary.” A regal sounding voice said behind Clay. Clay looked behind him to see a dark blue alicorn with a mane and tail that flowed elegantly. “P-princess Luna?” Clay asked, bewildered. “Yes Child.” Luna replied in the same regal tone. “The bounty has been so large this year I do not think that your candy will be necessary this Nightmare Night. Therefore Nightmare Moon shall spare you tonight.” “How…how do you know?” “I have my ways.” Luna said winking to Rainbow Dash. “You may go home and sleep soundly tonight child.” Clay smiled as Luna spread her wings and took off into the night sky. Dash started to walk into the house when Clay spoke. “Mommy?” “Yes, Clay?” “I know that I don’t have to give my candy to Nightmare Moon, but…can I still get some candy…with you?” Dash looked shocked. “Even after I scared you?” “I was scared…but…I know you would never scare me on purpose and…I still want to spend Nightmare Night with you, Mommy.” Dash smiled, trying to fight back a tear. “I’d love to Clay.” Clay walked up to Dash and nuzzled her leg. “Thanks mommy.” “You bet. Now come on, Nightmare Night is still young! Let’s get some sweets!” Dash placed the hood and goggles over her head and ran after Clay. They went from house to house spending Nightmare Night the way it was meant to be spent; together. Rainbow Dash the Wonderbolt“Clay I know you’re upset, but Mommy can’t stay home today I have to go to work.” Dash looked down at sad colt in front of her, feeling twinges of sadness and guilt as she looked into his brown eyes. “But…but…I…I don’t want you to go Mommy.” “I know, and believe me Clay, I want to stay home with you too. But the Wonderbolts need me to perform tonight.” Clay was not happy with her answer. “But. . . today's Mother’s Day. . . I won’t even get to do anything with you. You’ll be gone all day!” “Clay, I’m really sorry, but I can’t take today off. Spitfire is the one in charge and she needs me to be at Cloudsdale.” “Can’t you just pretend to be sick like last time?” “I don’t think I would get away with that again. . . and I don’t want you pretending you’re sick, either. Got it?” Clay hung his head depressed. “It’s not fair.” He muttered angrily “I know it’s not, but I’m not the only mom working today. Dinky’s mom is working late too. Maybe you two could get together and play?” “I don’t wanna play with Dinky! I wanna play with you!” Dash began to rub her temples as she began to feel a migraine forming. “Clay, honey I know that this isn’t fair, and I know that you want to spend time with me I do too. But the fact is that I have to go to work or else I can’t bring home bits so we can afford everything we have. Besides you’re birthdays coming soon don’t you want some new presents for your birthday?” Clay looked up at his mother, his lip quivering. “All I want for my birthday is for you to be home, Mommy.” Dash cocked an eyebrow. “You don’t mean that Clay.” “I do…I…that’s all I want Mommy.” Rainbow's heart was breaking into tiny fragments as tears began to stream down Clays face. Trying to calm him down she brought him in close with a foreleg and nuzzled his face. “I'll be home for your birthday. I’ll even be up when you get up, I promise.” Clay looked like he was about to speak, but he kept quite besides the occasional sniffle. “Aunt Fluttershy’s going to stop by later to baby-sit you. So I need you to behave yourself while I’m gone, okay?” “I…I will Mommy…and I’m not a baby!” Dash chuckled. “I know you aren’t. Now go play while Mommy gets ready for work.” Clay slowly walked up to his room while Dash followed behind. They both went to their rooms keeping quiet for the next thirty minutes. Soon after there was a knock at the door and Clay was the first to answer. He opened the door to reveal a butterscotch Pegasus with pink hair. “Hi Aunt Fluttershy!” Clay said excitedly. “Hello Clay, my you’ve gotten big since the last time I saw you.” Fluttershy whispered in her usual gentle, timid voice. “Uh-huh. I grew three inches!” “Oh my. Soon you’ll be as big and strong as Big Mac.” “Really?” Clay asked stunned. “Mm-hm. By the way is your mother still here?” “Yep. She’s just getting her…uniform.” Clays face fell. “What’s wrong Clay?” “T-today is mother’s day.” “Oh…I see.” “Why does Mommy have to go to work? Why can’t she stay here?” Fluttershy placed a hoof on Clay’s cheek. “Sometimes mommies and daddies have to miss out on things with their kids because they have too, Clay.” “But…why does she have to go?” Fluttershy looked at the heart broken earth pony and gave him a gentle hug. “Clay…would it help if we pretended that I was your mommy…just for today?” “It wouldn’t be the same.” Clay sighed sadly. “I guess not…I’m not as assertive as Rainbow is.” As Fluttershy released Clay, Rainbow started to climb down the stairs. “Thanks for coming Fluttershy. Sorry I can’t talk, but I need to get to Cloudsdale ASAP.” “It’s no trouble, Rainbow. I love babysitting Clay.” Dash ruffled Clay’s hair, then turned to open the door when something tugged at her back leg. She looked behind her to see Clay holding onto her leg tightly. “Clay…stop it.” Clay looked up at Rainbows rosy eyes and said in a small voice. “I’ll miss you, Mommy.” Rainbow blinked as he released her leg and looked to the ground. She turned to him, sat down, and gave him a tight hug, feeling his soft little body against hers. “I’ll miss you too Clay.” She kissed the top of his head and held the hug for a few more seconds before releasing him and standing back up. She gave his mane one last ruffle and then left the house where the sounds of flapping wings were heard outside. Rainbow Dash had reached the stadium in Cloudsdale where she and the other Wonderbolts would perform that day. She spotted Spitfire and started to walk over when she overheard a young filly Pegasus and her mother talking. “Do you like the tickets that me and Daddy got for you, Mommy?” The filly squeaked. “I love them sweetie. I can’t believe that you and your father actually managed to get Wonderbolts tickets for the three of us!” “Daddy said that you always wanted to see the Wonderbolts and I thought it would make the perfect Mother’s Day gift.” The mother pegasus smiled her daughter. “I love my gift, sweetie, but I already have a great Mother’s Day gift.” “What’s that, Mommy?” The filly asked curiously. “You.” The filly smiled and hugged her mother as she returned it. “I love you Mommy.” “I love you too, Humming Bird.” The mother replied. As the two ponies hugged, Dash’s chest began to tighten due to what she was witnessing. She thought of Clay for a few seconds and continued her walk to the back of the stadium with her head dropped slightly. “There you are, Rainbow Dash. You ready for tonight’s show?” asked Spitfire. “Yeah, I guess.” Rainbow said unenthusiastically. “Wow, what’s with you? I’ve never seen you so down before a show.” “I just…have a lot on my mind right now.” Spitfire raised an eyebrow. “Well, I need you at your best today, so leave that personal stuff at the door okay?” Dash gave a slight nod. “Good. Now come on, the others are already inside.” Spitfire pushed past the door, and Rainbow followed still looking sadly at the floor as she entered. Dash was in the locker room with Spitfire and the other mare Wonderbolts, putting on her uniform from her saddle bag. As she placed the goggles over her head, she placed the saddle bag in her locker and was surprised when a piece of paper fell out and floated to the floor. Dash picked it up and sat on a bench so she could unfold the paper. When she did she saw that it was a crudely drawn picture of a Pegasus Wonderbolt with a rainbow mane and tail, and beneath the Wonderbolt were bold colorful letters that spelled “HAPY MODERS DAY MOMY” As Dash finished reading her eyes began to fill with tears and she found it difficult to suppress the sobs that threatened to escape her throat. She had never thought much about Mother’s Day before, mostly because it simply reminded her that she no longer had a mother. Yet right now it was the only thing that was filling her mind as she sat on the bench. She didn’t want to be here, she wanted to be with her son telling him that she loved him and playing games with him. Rainbows sniffling caught the attention of Spitfire, who walked over to her coworker and saw the picture in her hoof. “Rainbow…I’m sorry.” “I shouldn’t be here.” Dash sobbed. “I should be at home with my son.” Spitfire placed a hoof on Rainbow’s shoulder and gave a sympathetic look. “I know it doesn’t feel right. But we can’t do this performance without you.” Dash wiped her eyes and placed the picture in her bag, then shut her locker. Then she put on her bravest face and left with Spitfire to perform. So far the airshow had gone off without a hitch, all that was needed was her sonic rainboom and that would be the end of it. Dash soared as high as she could and then began speeding back down to the ground. She pushed the wind barrier, causing a large colorful explosion, but she didn’t stop. Instead she kept going and a few seconds later a second sonic rainboom exploded from Dash as she left a rainbow streak in her wake. The crowd went wild as the second explosion expanded across the sky. Rainbow landed on the stadium with Spitfire and the other Wonderbolts and bid the crowd farewell. Spitfire and the others talked excitedly around Rainbow, not believing what they had witnessed. “Rainbow Dash how did you do that!?” asked Surprise, a white and yellow Pegasus Wonderbolt. Dash’s only response was a smile. As Spitfire and the others left the locker room, Dash stayed behind as she placed her jumpsuit into her saddle bag and placed it onto her back. She shut the door, and then reached into the bag to pull out the drawing Clay had made her and smiled at it as a tear began to run down her face. “That was for you Clay.” She whispered. Dash placed it back into her bag then left the locker room. As she left the building she saw Soarin, Spitfire and several other Wonderbolts looking at her smiling. “Hey Dash, we’re going over to the thunder dome to celebrate a great show and your double sonic rainboom. You want to come with us?” Soarin asked eagerly. Dash looked to her coworkers and smiled. “Sorry guys…but I have other plans.” All the other ponies looked at her confused, except for Spitfire who smiled, knowing what she intended. Rainbow waved goodbye to the others and then took off into the sky, flying home as fast as she could to the pony that mattered to her more than anything in Equestria. Soon she was once again on solid ground and before she knew it the front door had flung open to have a small colt running up to her happily. Clay hugged her tightly and she did the same. “I missed you Mommy.” Clay said happily as he continued hugging her. “I missed you too, squirt.” Dash replied a small tear running down her face. “I saw your picture.” She reached into her bag and pulled it out so he could see. “Do you like it?” Clay said excitedly. To be honest the words were misspelled, the lines weren’t completely straight, and the Wonderbolt didn’t look too much like her save for the multicolored mane. But Dash simply smiled. “I love it Clay.” She gave Clay a warm hug, and he returned with a big grin on his face. “Happy Mother’s Day, Mommy.” Clay said happily. “Thank you Clay.” Dash whispered. The two ponies sat there enjoying the hug, as the sun began to descend leaving the sky a beautiful orange. Epilogue: Sweet as CiderIt was finally here. The time of the year that Rainbow Dash looked forward to more than anything else, cider season. She relished in the taste that was only available during that special time of year, and everypony knew that nothing would stop her until she got a mug. . . normally. The problem was that every year, no matter how early she got there, Pinkie Pie would get ahead of her first and buy a ridiculous amount of cider. Dash was pretty sure by now that it had something to do with Pinkie Sense. Today she had even less chance of obtaining cider, as she had to drop Clay of at school. Still it was worth a shot. They had just reached the front of the school building and dash planned to head straight from there over to Applejack's. “Now behave for Miss Cheerilee, and pay attention. Okay squirt?” Dash looked down at the slightly tired colt. “I will, Mommy. I *yawn* promise.” Clay gave his mother a goodbye hug and then walked off to meet up with his friend Dinky. Dash watched on for a few minutes, reflecting on how much Clay had grown over the years. She felt a deep sense of pride that she had gotten him this far in life. Hello Rainbow! Cider season! Now! Dash shook her head as her inner voice shouted at her. Rainbow Dash flew off into the sky and headed over to Sweet Apple Acres as fast as she could. Within minutes she could see the farm perched on top of the hill and a small stand where Applejack would sell her heavenly cider. “Please don’t be long. Please don’t be long. Please don’t be…” She stopped and her eyes widened in horror as she saw a line from the small stand all the way down the hill. But what really upset Dash was the fact that once again Pinkie was at the front of the line. “How…how does she keep doing this!?” Dash groaned and landed on the ground, and taking her place in line. “This is going to suck.” Dash muttered as she saw Pinkie walking past her with at least twelve tankards of cider. The line moved at a snail’s pace, and as time passed more and more barrels of cider were replaced by Big Mac. Finally it was almost her turn and for once there was still a spare barrel left which meant that for the first time in years Rainbow would finally get a cup of her favorite beverage. There were just three ponies ahead of her, then two, then one. Her mouth began to water in anticipation as she imagined the sweet fluid in her mouth, but in the distance she heard the school bell ring and she knew what that meant. “Oh no. No. It can’t be time to pick up Clay already.” As if to answer the bell rang again. She couldn’t believe it. She was so close only to have her desire ripped away from her. “One cup, just one cup. Is that too much to ask for?” Dash grumbled as she saw that it was her turn. “You're next, RD. It's right here waitin’ for ya.” Applejack said happily. Dash looked to the stand, then the school in the distance. As she was being torn from choosing she gritted her teeth in frustration and turned to Applejack. “Sorry AJ…I’ve got to get Clay.” Applejack looked stunned at first knowing how much Rainbow Dash loved her apple cider, but then she smiled and gave a small nod as Dash launched into the sky. Rainbow Dash landed at the school entrance and immediately spotted Clay sitting on the steps with his saddle bags. Clay ran over and gave her a loving hug and looked up at her, seeing her disappointment. “What’s wrong, Mommy?” Clay asked. “Oh, I just didn’t get any cider that’s all.” Clay looked at his mother as if he was thinking, and then he ran off to his saddle bag. He picked up a cup sitting next to it, and brought it over to her. “What’s this?” Dash asked curiously as Clay held out the tankard. “It’s a cup of Aunt Applejack’s cider.” Dash raised an eyebrow. “How could you have gotten a cup of cider when you were at school all day?” “Aunt Pinkie Pie came over while I was waiting for you to pick me up, and I asked if I could have one of her cups and she said yes.” Dash looked at the cup, and then to Clay. “Honey… I can’t drink this it’s yours.” Clay shook his head. “I want you to have it, Mommy. I keep hearing how much you like it and you never get any of it, so I got it for you.” Clay brought the cup closer to Dash smiling broadly. Dash looked at the cup again and took it in her hoof. She hesitated at first, but soon she brought it to her lips and was met with the sweetest tasting cider she had ever had. Her lips curled into a smile as she slowly gulped the beverage before removing it from her mouth to lick her lips. “Is it good mommy?” Clay asked excitedly. “It’s the best thing ever!” Dash said still smiling. “Wow I can’t wait to try some myself.” Dash frowned slightly knowing all too well that there wouldn’t be any cider for Clay until tomorrow. She looked back down at the tankard and saw that it was still half full. She then looked to Clay and then smiled. “How about we share it?” Clay’s eyes widened in excitement and he shook his head as Dash handed him the mug. Clay took a few careful sips, testing the taste. After a few seconds he licked his lips and took another larger sip. “Wow! This the best drink ever!” Clay shouted happily as he handed the tankard over to his mother. “I know, right?” Dash took a few gulps and sighed happily. “Hey Mommy, can you take me over to the park so I can play?” “Sure thing, Squirt. It’s the least I can do since you got me some cider.” Clay picked up his saddle bag and walked alongside his mother as they headed for the park where he met Dinky and played a short game of tag while Dash sat and watched. Making sure to not take her eyes off of him this time. Celestia's sun began to set as Clay and Dash sat on top of a hill taking in the beauty of the scene. Clay snuggled up to her and looked to the sunset. “I like the sunset Mommy…it’s so pretty.” Dash looked down at Clay smiling. “Yeah…it is pretty isn’t it?” Clay rested his head in her side and sighed happily. “Mommy.” “Yes Clay?” “Do you love me more than cider?” Dash chuckled as she looked at him. “You are sweeter than any cider Applejack could make.” Clay smiled and nuzzled Rainbows side as he started to shut his eyes. “Mommy.” Clay said sleepily. “Hmmm.” Dash replied, feeling tired herself. “Do you think that maybe someday…I could fly like you?” Dash looked at the sleeping colt by her side and smiled. “I’m sure that if you want it bad enough… some day you will fly like me.” Clay was now lying down on all fours with a big smile on his face. “Thanks Mommy.” Dash smiled with dreamy eyes.“You’re welcome, sweetie.” Dash rested on her front next to Clay and draped her wing over him like a blanket, and rested her head as she pulled Clay closer to her. As she watched Clay sleep she began to remember the day she found him, and how at the time it seemed like she had made the biggest mistake of her life. But now as she saw him sleeping peacefully under her wing and felt the warmth from the sun on her face, she realized that Clay was the most important and happiest decision she had ever made. The start had been rough and she doubted herself once in a while, but she wouldn’t trade that day she found Clay for anything in all of Equestria. After all she was his mommy now, and forever. THE END Earth Ponies Don't FlyTwilight and her friends basked in the warmth of the sun as they played with their pets. They brought Owloysius, Winona, Gummy, Angel, Opal, and Tank to the park every once in a while, just stay out and have fun. But today Rainbow Dash brought her son Clay along as well. As Dash watched from a nearby tree, Clay played a game of hide and seek with Tank. The tortoise popping his head in and out of his shell always put a smile on Clay’s face, and in turn it would put a smile on hers as well. Dash reclined on the branch, placing her head on her “tree” pillow, and exhaled as she got settled. “Rainbow, shouldn’t you be keeping an eye on Clay?” Applejack asked, rousing Dash from her sleep. “Aw, don’t worry. He’s too preoccupied with Tank to go anywhere, and besides I can always catch up with him if I need to chase him.” Applejack raised an eyebrow at her, so she added, “I’m not going to nap that long. Just five minutes, eight tops.” Applejack rolled her eyes and trotted back to her dog. As Rainbow slept and the others played none of them noticed that Clay had split from the group. Clay had spotted a butterfly that had flown close to him and he began chasing it. As he did he went farther and farther from his mother and Aunts. “Hey, come back here!” Clay swiped at the butterfly and missed. “Darn it.” He continued the chase and eventually reached the top of a hill trying his best to capture the elusive butterfly. As he reached for it, the insect flew away from the hill where he couldn’t grab it. Clay looked down the hill and then back to the butterfly. “If Mom can do it, so can I.” He started to back up, squinting his eyes as he focused. Clay ran as fast as he could and jumped off the hill reaching for the butterfly, but as soon as it was within reach Clay began to drop. He hit the ground hard and rolled all the way to the bottom, getting the wind knocked out of him. When he finally stopped rolling he shook his head and looked down to see that his knee was bleeding. Between the pain and witnessing his blood Clay panicked and began to cry. Rainbow was still asleep when she heard a cry in the distance. She opened her eyes and was horrified when she looked to see Clay on the ground crying. She flew off the branch and landed beside her son. “Clay, what happened!” Clay tried to talk, but he found it difficult through his tears. He looked down at his leg and Dash saw the injury. “Oh my gosh you’re hurt! Clay, I’m so sorry!” Clay continued sniffling as the rest of his Aunts came running up. “Rainbow what happened?” Twilight asked worried. “Clay hurt his leg.” Dash picked Clay up and embraced him as he sniffled. “It hurts, Mommy,” He cried. “Don’t worry, Clay. I’ll fix it.” Twilight bent down and touched her horn to his injured leg. With a bright flash it was healed. “All better.” Twilight gave his leg a small kiss as she backed away. “Thank you, Aunt Twilight.” Clay sniffed. “You’re welcome, sweetie.” Twilight said smiling. “I’ll take Clay home. Rainbow you get Tank and head back,” said Applejack. Rainbow nodded, but was rather reluctant to let go of Clay. When she did, she watched him and Applejack walk home in silence. “Rainbow Dash, are you alright?” Fluttershy asked, worried. “I’m a terrible mother.” She whispered. “What?” Pinkie said startled. “I let Clay get hurt because I wanted to take a nap.” She hung her head shamefully. “What kind of a mother does that?” “Rainbow you made a mistake. And Clay is all better now, so don’t worry about it.” Twilight reassured. “But…what if next time it’s more serious? What if I’m not around next time? What if you aren’t around next time? What if…” “Rainbow, dear, it was just an accident. These things happen.” Rarity interrupted. “But what if next time he runs into a bear or something?” “Oh, there aren’t any bears around here. Unless Clay went into the Everfree Forest he wouldn’t run into one,” Fluttershy whispered. “Rainbow, I think you might be overthinking this a little.” Twilight said kindly. Dash glared at her friends. “Don’t you get it!? Clay got hurt because I wasn’t watching him! If he leaves the house again and I’m not around it might not go so well next time!” Her chest rose and fell as she began to imagine terrible things happening to him. “I need to make sure he gets home okay!” Before anyone else could speak Rainbow Dash took off grabbing Tank as she zipped by headed for home. Within minutes Rainbow was outside her home and swung the door open. “Clay, Applejack are you guys here!” “We’re in here RD!” Rainbow looked to see Clay and Applejack in the kitchen making him dinner. She breathed a sigh of relief as she placed Tank on the floor. “You got here quick Rainbow. I figured ya would have finished your nap instead.” Applejack said with a hint of sarcasm. Rainbow glared at her. “What, you think that’s all I do!?” Clay and Applejack looked startled. “No I just didn’t expect to see ya back so soon.” Rainbow walked over to Clay. “My son got hurt and I wanted to make sure he was okay.” She kissed the top of his head. “I’m fine, Mommy. Aunt Twilight used her magic remember?” “I know, Clay, I just wanted to make sure you were safe.” Rainbow Dash sat at the spot beside Clay at the table. “We got here safe enough. Are yah hungry? I was just about ta make Clay dinner.” “No thanks I…I lost my appetite.” Applejack shrugged. “Suit yourself.” Applejack finished preparing the food and placed it in front of Clay. “Hay fries my favorite!” Clay dug in and started eating. “I’m gonna head back to the farm RD, see you later. Bye Clay!” Applejack ruffled his mane. “Bye Aunt Applejack!” Clay called out as she left. As Clay resumed eating Dash watched him silently. “What’s wrong mommy? Aren’t you hungry?” Dash shook her head. “No. I’m fine Clay.” Despite what his mother said Clay took a fry and offered it to her. “Thanks sweetie.” She took it smiling and popped it into her mouth. “Clay I’m sorry.” “About what?” Clay asked. “For not watching you, and letting you get hurt.” She replied sadly. “It’s okay mommy. It wasn’t your fault.” Dash smiled. “Thanks Clay, but I still feel terrible that I let it happen. I should have been watching you.” “It was my fault, Mommy. I haven’t figured out how to fly yet.” Dash raised an eyebrow. “Haven’t learned how to- wait, what?” “Fly. I was trying to grab a butterfly and it was in the air, so I tried to fly like you, but I guess I didn’t get it right.” Dash looked at Clay uncomfortably. “Uh, Clay, I’m sorry, but you can’t fly.” Clay looked at her confused. “Why?” “Well, because you don’t have wings like Mommy.” She flapped her wings a few times. “Won’t I grow them later?” Now Dash was really uncomfortable. “Clay…you’re an earth pony like Applejack and Pinkie Pie. They don’t have wings, and they never will.” Clay looked dumbfounded. “You mean…I…I can never fly like you?” “Yes…I’m sorry sweetie.” Clay’s eyes began to glisten. “But…but I want to fly like you mommy. You make it look so fun.” “It is fun Clay, but the fact is that earth ponies and unicorns can’t fly, just like Mommy can’t use magic.” “But how come I don’t have wings like you?” Dash shook her head. “I don’t know. Your real dad or mom must have been an earth pony. Or maybe they both were.” Clay frowned. “But Pumpkin Cake and Pound Cake have earth pony parents and they can fly and use magic!” “I don’t know why that is Clay, maybe they were just lucky or something?” “It’s not fair! I want wings.” He crossed his front legs. “I know it’s not fair, but you can’t change who you are Clay. Besides what would Aunt Applejack say if she saw you like this?” “I don’t care! I want to fly with you mommy!” His eyes became moist and his lip trembled. “I want you to fly with me too Clay, but you can’t.” “Can't Aunt Twilight make some wings for me with her magic?” “I don’t think there is a spell that can do that, Clay.” Dash lied. Dash knew there was a spell that could give a pony wings, but they were fragile and the thought of Clay falling from so high filled her with dread. Clay hung his head in defeat and a small tear ran down his face. He stood there for a moment and then looked up at Dash with sad eyes. “Mommy…” “Yes Clay?” Dash whispered. “Do you… love me?” Dash was startled by the question. “Why would you ask something like that?” “Because I don’t have wings.” The tears in his eyes began to flow more steadily as he looked at her. “Clay, of course I love you. Don’t ever ask that question again.” Dash reached over and gave him a hug trying to comfort him. “I love you so much Clay.” She replied rubbing his back affectionately. “Even…*sniff* even if I can’t fly?” Clay looked back up at his mother and she smiled down at him. “Even if you can’t fly.” Dash hugged him tighter as Clay rested his head on her chest. “Thanks mommy.” Dash gave a small nod as they held each other in the loving embrace. Night had fallen and Dash was sleeping soundly in her bed when she heard a noise at her bedroom door. She turned on her bed lamp and spotted Clay at her door. “Clay? What are you doing up?” “I…I had a nightmare.” “Oh…I’m sorry.” “Can…can I sleep with you?” Dash nodded and pulled the covers away from the bed, allowing Clay to get in her bed. Clay walked over and jumped onto the mattress and laid down next to her. Dash pulled the covers over him and her. “Comfy?” “Mmmhmm.” Clay replied. “Good *yawn* now let’s get some sleep. And remember, if you have another nightmare I’m right here, okay?” Clay nodded and Dash began to shut her eyes. As she tried to sleep she felt Clay snuggle up next to her his head buried in her chest. “Goodnight Mommy.” He whispered. Dash opened her eyes and smiled as she looked at the small colt and kissed his head. “Goodnight Clay.” She whispered back. She shut her eyes and placed her foreleg over his body, hugging him while they both slept peacefully and dreamed of flying together.
Life ChangesRainbow Dash was soaring through the air, enjoying the wind in her face. Her ears however were filled with the sound of childish laughter from the colt that was secured safely in her saddle bag. Dash was now the mother of an abandoned earth pony she found in the Everfree Forest, which she had decided to name Clay. She wasn’t too happy with the idea, but she couldn’t stand the thought of leaving the child at Ponyville orphanage, and her friends had their own families to take care of. So the responsibility fell on her shoulders whether she wanted it or not. Dash was not looking forward to what this would mean for her, between cutting into her exercise and training, and the time she would spend outside. Not to mention that she was still missing her cloud home, she had to move out since the little pony couldn’t even live with her unless she moved to the ground. She hated the whole thing, she was starting to feel tied to the ground between her new less awesome home and the foal in her care. Flying was in her blood, she needed the wind under her wings, and the thought of being on the ground and watching an infant was stressful to the pegasus. Thankfully she could still fly when she really needed it, and to her surprise the baby actually seemed to enjoy flying with her. Dash was used to earth ponies wanting to keep their hooves on the ground, so the fact that Clay actually wanted to be with her in the sky was a relief. Feeling like she got her fix, Dash descended to the ground and began trotting to Sweet Apple Acres to talk with Applejack. She found the cowpony doing what she did best, bucking apples from the orchards. “Careful AJ, you don’t want to pull something!” “Hardy har har.” Applejack said mockingly. Dash walked up to her friend, as Applejack wiped her brow and looked to the pegasus. “So what brings you here, Rainbow? Need some cider?” She shook her head. “No, I just needed some air time is all. Plus Clay was having trouble sleeping.” “What's that got to do with anything?” “You wouldn’t believe it, but the only thing that will put this little guy to sleep is if I take him flying.” “Well that’s odd.” Applejack said, raising an eyebrow. “Yeah. I don’t mind though, he goes to sleep and I get some flying in.” “Well I’m glad you found somethin' that works for both of ya'.” Applejack was starting to head back to the barn when Rainbow spoke. “Wait! There is another reason I came here.” “And that is?” “Spitfire wants me at Cloudsdale, and Twilight's in Canterlot. I was hoping you could watch Clay while I’m gone?” “Why of course Rainbow, I’d love tah take care of the little young'un.” “Thanks, I’ll be back at six!” She handed Clay off to Applejack and started to fly away when they both heard a small whine. The two fillies looked to see baby Clay awake and reaching his two front hooves to Dash. “I’ll be back kid, I promise.” With that, Dash flew into the air heading towards Cloudsdale. As Dash disappeared Clay began to cry, large tears falling down his face. “Shhhh. It’s okay Clay momma’s comin' back soon. In the meantime you get to spend time with yer Aunt Applejack.” As Applejack comforted Clay he stopped crying, but was still sniffling slightly. “Besides,” She went on, “She can’t be gone too long, right? She said she’d be back at six and its three right now. She’ll be back before you know it.” 8 Hours Later: “I’m goin' to kill Rainbow when she gets back.” Applejack muttered as she sat outside with Clay in her front legs as he slept soundly for the first time in hours. The night sky was making it hard for Applejack to see, but eventually she saw a Pegasus silhouetted across the moon. Dash came down gracefully and approached the earth pony. “Thanks AJ, you’re a lifesaver.” “Where the hay have you been?” “Well first I had to do training with the Wonderbolts, like always, and then…” “Then what?” Applejack snapped, obviously irritated. “Then we headed out for a party! You know how I like a good party.” “You stayed there for five hours, when you knew darn well ya had a foal waitin' for you back at the farm!” “I tried to leave early, but then Soarin came up and…we started talking and we had a few drinks.” Applejack glared at Dash. “Rainbow, bein' a mother is about thinkin' about somepony other than yourself. This colt needs a mother and if you aren’t gonna take this seriously, I’ll have to take him.” Dash’s eyes widened, and a smile formed on her face. “Really, you’d do that? Thanks AJ, you're the best friend a filly could have.” Applejack blinked. “Now wait just a doggarn minute! You agreed to be this foal’s mother. I promise to help, Rainbow, but you have tah hold your end of the bargain.” “Just because I “agreed” to be this kids mom doesn’t mean I can’t have fun every once in a while!” “No, but yah can’t just ignore him completely. He can’t take care of himself yet, Dash. He needs you to help him.” “Well it’s not my fault that he was abandoned! I just found him and brought him to safety, how is this my responsibility?” “He became your responsibility the moment you said yes!” “Only because you guys pressured me into doing it, by saying that it had to be me!” “Yah could have said no!” “Well, I’m saying no now. I don’t want him!” “There is no way in Equestria that you are just dumpin' this foal on me, Rainbow, just because you don’t wanna be responsible!” “Well, I’m not letting him go to that orphanage, so it has to be either you or one of the others!” “Why can't yah just think of somepony else for a change!” “BECAUSE I DON’T WANT TO MESS HIM UP!” The two ponies fell silent for the first time in a minute and looked at each other, startled. “Why would you think that you would mess him up, Sugarcube?” Applejack asked, even more surprised to see tears filling Rainbows eyes. “I…I…I don’t want to screw up his life, AJ.” Dash sat down on her haunches and continued to cry. “I…I know I’m not the motherly type. Let’s face it, if I have to choose between going out with Soarin and changing diapers, I’m going with the date. What if…what if I do something stupid and he gets sick or hurt? I don’t…I don’t know if…” The tears came more steadily as Applejack walked over and sat next to Dash. “Rainbow…I know bein' a mom can be scary, shoot I felt like mah own mother when I was rasin' Applebloom. It was all happenin' so fast I thought I was never goin' to be able to enjoy myself again. And I know that your own experiences with parenting haven’t been the most pleasant. But let me tell you that if you are this concerned for the baby's future and health, then ah say you’re already on the right track.” Dash looked to Applejack, wiping the tears from her face. “But…what if I can’t handle it? What if it becomes too much, and I just drop him off someplace with nothing but a note? What if I become like my dad and just leave and never come back?” She buried her face in her hooves hiccupping slightly. “You won’t, because ah know you won’t. You’re the element of loyalty, and ah know you’re going to raise that foal to be a fine stallion one day.” She placed a hoof on Rainbows shoulder. “And if you do decide to leave him I’ll be right there to set you straight.” Dash looked to her friend and smiled. “Thanks, AJ.” “You’re welcome.” As the two fillies exchanged smiles, Clay woke up and began to whine slightly. “Ah think he wants his momma.” She handed Clay over to Dash who cradled him with her two front legs. “Hey Clay. You ready to go home?” The baby giggled in response. Dash placed Clay into her saddle bag and placed it on her back, spreading her wings. “Thanks AJ I really owe you one.” “Just takin' care of that baby will be enough thanks.” Dash nodded and took off into the night sky, leaving Applejack watching them disappear. “You can do it Rainbow…I know you can.” Applejack tilted her Stanton hat and began walking back to the barn to get some well-earned rest. Back in Ponyville a rainbow pegasus with her earth pony colt were doing the same.
Lost and FoundThe usual quiet of the Carousel Boutique was replaced by the sounds of a rather distraught colt as he tried to keep away from his Aunt Rarity. “Clay, please stay still! I have to take your measurements!” Rarity frowned as she tried to get her measuring tape across his small body. Clay's only response was more squirming and crying. “Clay, dear, I know you don’t like to wear clothes but you must look presentable for the princess’s arrival.” Clay simply made a raspberry at her. “Sweetie Belle! Be a dear and try to keep Clay still long enough that I can get the proper measurements.” She shouted struggling with the colt. “I’m on it, Sis!” Sweetie Belle ran up to her sister and Clay trying to think of a way to make him stay still. “Hmmm, I could use my magic to hold him still.” “Sweetie Belle, you are still learning! I’d rather not have you use magic on a living creature until you have it mastered. We don’t want to hurt our little nephew do we?” As Rarity spoke Clay grabbed Rarity’s hair and gave a firm tug.“Ow! Clay, that hurt!” Clay giggled at her discomfort. “Oh, I do hope that Rainbow Dash gets here soon. I love Clay, but he can be such a handful.” Clay gave another tug. No sooner had the words left her mouth that they heard the front door bell ring. And in walked Rainbow Dash with Scootaloo. “Hey Rarity how are things with Clay?” “They could *ow* be *ow* better!” Rarity gave a pleading look to her friend. “Please make him stop before he rips something out!” Dash and Scootaloo chuckled at Rarity’s obvious discomfort. She then walked over to Clay and gave him a stern look. “Clay sit still now.” She said in a low tone. As if by magic, Clay stopped pulling on his Aunt's mane and sat down quietly while looking up at her with a blank stare. Dash smirked while Sweetie Belle and Rarity stared in amazement. “How did you get him to stop?” Rarity questioned. “He knows that I’m in charge.” Dash turned to the others. “You just have to be assertive, tell him what you want him to do, look him straight in the eye and…” “Rainbow…he’s gone.” Scootaloo interrupted. “What!” Dash spun around and sure enough Clay was nowhere to be seen. “Clay…Clay…Clay come on out I don’t have time for games!” Dash looked around franticly her chest starting to tighten. “Did any of you guys see where he went!?” They all shook their heads. “Come on help me look!” Dash, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, and Rarity galloped around the boutique looking under every pile of fabric and every room of the building. After five minutes of searching they couldn’t find a single trace of him. As they met up in the center of the boutique Dash was starting to panic when her friends and protégée turned up empty hooved. “Oh no…oh no….oh no…” Dash began to hyperventilate. “Rainbow, calm down. I’m sure that Clay is here somewhere. The front door is locked so he couldn’t have left the building.” Rarity said. “Uh…actually, I didn’t shut the door.” Scootaloo replied rubbing the back of her head. “Oh Celestia! I’m going to look for him outside! Rarity, Sweetie Belle, you stay here and keep looking! Scootaloo you’re going to help me look!” Without a word Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo ran outside and took to the sky. The day ticked by and neither Rainbow, nor Scootaloo had found Clay in Ponyville, nor had anypony seen him. Rainbow returned to the Boutique downcast and sick with worry. “Please tell me you guys found him?” Dash said begging. “I’m sorry Rainbow we didn’t find him anywhere.” Rarity said sorrowfully. Dash fell back on her haunches and looked to the ground distraught. “I can’t believe this is happening.” She sounded like she was on the verge of tears. Rarity walked over to Dash trying to think of something to comfort her friend, but she knew that the only way to make Dash feel better was to find her son. As the ponies all hung their heads in depression, the front door bell rang and Rarity walked over to open the door. “Rainbow Dash! You will not believe this!” Rarity shouted in disbelief. Rainbow turned her head, and to her amazement she saw Princess Celestia herself with a little yellow foal clinging to her neck. “Clay!” Rainbow Dash ran to them, leaving a small rainbow trail behind her, and took the baby in her arms. “Oh Clay, I was so worried! Don’t ever scare me like that again!” Dash peppered his face with small kisses, forgetting that the Princess was even there. “This foal is yours, Rainbow Dash?” Celestia said surprised. “Uh, yeah I’m taking care of him…how did you find him your highness?” “I was making my way to the celebration for my arrival when I spotted this colt wandering the streets.” Celestia nuzzled against Clays face, and he gave a small giggle. “I started looking around town and asked if they knew who his mother was, but everypony was too busy groveling to notice the infant. So I decided that maybe one of the elements would be able to give me a straight answer. I stopped by the Carousel Boutique to see Rarity and, well you know the rest.” Dash’s face fell. She hung her head in shame. “You must think I’m a horrible parent.” “Rainbow Dash everypony makes mistakes, and parents are no exception. The important thing is that you learn something from that mistake.” Celestia gave a reassuring smile. “I have Princess. I’m going to pay more attention to this little guy.” She nuzzled her face against Clay's smiling. “And maybe put a bell on him next time.” The others gave a small chuckle. “Well, now that everything has ended on such a happy note, why don’t we go attend that celebration?” Dash and the others nodded in agreement and they left the Boutique, ready to enjoy themselves. They all wore smiles on their faces, but none where as happy as Rainbow's. She had learned something important that day. She learned that she loved Clay more than she thought she did, and that just like flying, being a good parent would take time and practice. And since she was already an ace flier, she knew that someday she would make an ace mom.
One Word“Rainbow Dash.” Rainbow said, looking at the young colt as he sucked his hoof. “Rain. Bow. Dash.” She repeated slowly. Clay continued to look at her. “Come on Clay, you’re three years old now. You need to at least say one word.” Dash looked at her son and got no response. “Ugh, well we can try again later. I promised to drop you off with Pinkie and the Cake twins.” She picked up Clay and placed him in her saddle bag before leaving her home and taking off into the sky. Within seconds she landed outside of the front entrance of the gingerbread-like building. Dash walked in and was greeted by the friendly smile of Mrs. Cake, with both foals in a foal-pack. “Rainbow Dash! It’s so good to see you here.” “Thanks, Mrs. Cake. Is Pinkie here? I need to drop off Clay.” “She’s in the back filling in an order, but I’ll let her know you’re here.” Mrs. Cake walked to the back of the room with her two children while Dash placed Clay on the floor. “Now I need you to be good while I’m away, alright?” Clay giggled. “I’ll take that as a yes…can you say yes?” Clay opened his mouth and Rainbow watched in anticipation, but it soon vanished when all he did was belch. “Oh well.” She sighed. Soon after Pinkie Pie came in bouncing with joy with the twins on her back. “Hi Dashie! Hi Clay!” She said with a little too much enthusiasm. “Hey Pinkie. You sure you can handle three foals at once?” Pinkie waved a dismissive hoof. “Of course I can. And besides I have Mr. and Mrs. Cake around if I really need help.” Rainbow arched an eyebrow. “Well, if you’re sure.” “It’ll be fine Dashie, really!” “Alright. Bye Clay, be good for Pinkie Pie.” Rainbow started to walk away when she heard a small whine. She turned around to see Clay reaching for her. “Man, you’re clingy.” Dash walked over and nuzzled Clay’s face causing him to coo. Dash repeated her goodbye and left the building. Rainbow sat on a nearby cloud, trying to enjoy her free time, but she found that no matter how hard she tried she couldn’t relax. She kept thinking about Clay not being able to talk. “It’s been three years, he should have at least learned one word by now.” She groaned and fell onto her back. “I mean everypony else’s baby can talk, hell the Cake twins could talk within a month.” Dash lifted herself up and looked at the ground. “Am I doing something wrong?” Realizing that taking a nap on a cloud was not going to happen she flew from the cloud and landed softly on the ground. She looked around trying to find something to take mind off things. As she did she spotted Ditzy Doo delivering the mail, and as she did Rainbow had an idea. “Hey Ditzy!” Ditzy waved back to her. “Can I talk to you when you get a minute?” Ditzy nodded. “Meet me at the Flower Petal.” With that Dash flew away once more. Rainbow waited outside the Flower Petal, a small restaurant that she would stop by every once in a while. As she waited she saw the gray yellow wall-eyed pegasus approach. “Thanks for coming Ditzy.” “Sure Rainbow Dash. What do you want to talk about?” “Well…I know that you have been raising Dinky by yourself. And she seems to be okay with that.” Ditzy raised an eyebrow. “I was wondering how do you do it?” “Do what?” Ditzy replied. “Raise a kid by yourself while you have a job.” “Well you’re raising Clay by yourself, and you’re a Wonderbolt.” “I mean how do you know you’re doing it right? Is there some kind of book you’re reading?” Ditzy chuckled. “Rainbow Dash, none of the books out there will tell you how to be a good parent. It’s all instinct.” “But I don’t have that instinct. I may be raising him, but he’s not my son.” Rainbows face fell. “My mother told me that when mothers hold their kid that there's this special link they develop, that a mother can feel it all the time…I don’t feel it with Clay.” “You do love him right?” “Of course I love him. What kind of question is that?” Rainbow snapped. “Well then, you have nothing to worry about.” Dash looked confused. “You may not feel it now because you didn’t give birth to him. But every good mother feels that connection with their child. Some mares just get it later than others.” Rainbow looked uncertainly at the mailmare. “But…how do I know when it happens?” Ditzy gave a warm smile. “Trust me when the time comes…you’ll know.” Ditzy said goodbye, returning to her mail route as Dash realized that she had to pick up Clay soon. Rainbow Dash returned to Sugarcube Corner and found Pinkie Pie playing with Clay. “Hey Pinkie…where are the twins?” “Oh I put them to bed an hour ago. Clay didn’t want to sleep, so I thought I’d try to tire him out.” Dash chuckled. “You can’t wear Clay out. That colt’s got almost as much energy as you.” Dash called Clay over and he ran to her. Dash picked him up and hugged him tightly while Clay buried his head in her chest. Then to the surprise of both Rainbow and Pinkie, he spoke. “Mommy.” Dash went wide eyed as Pinkie gasped, “Oh my gosh his first word! This is the greatest play date ever!” Dash looked down at the colt nuzzling her and to her embarrassment tears began to escape her eyes. She finally felt it that invisible link that her mother had told her about. She felt as though she could tell exactly what he was feeling, and that feeling made her feel warm and happy inside. Dash took Clay home and placed him in his crib. As Clay yawned and began to fall asleep, Dash wore a motherly smile and ruffled his mane slightly. Dash walked to her room and got settled into her bed. As she slept the smile may have left her face. . . but it never left her heart, and it never would for as long as she lived.
All In Good FunThe autumn air was cold as the wind rushed past the trees, scattering the leaves left on the ground. Usually on days like this all the citizens of Ponyville would be inside trying to keep warm. Tonight, however, was no ordinary night. This was Nightmare Night. And for a certain rainbow maned Pegasus, it was the perfect night to pull one of her best pranks. The only thing holding her back was Clay, who was about to experience Nightmare Night for the first time. “Come on Clay, we’re burning daylight here!” Dash called to her son as she tapped a hoof on the ground slightly irritated. “Uh…I don’t know about this mommy.” Said a small voice from behind the bedroom door. “Everypony celebrates Nightmare Night. It’s tradition.” “But everypony will look scary.” “Clay, they're still the same ponies you know from Ponyville. They just look different.” Clay wasn’t convinced. He sat on his bed looking out his window at all the ponies in costume walking through the street. Clay hated being scared, and the fact that there was a whole day dedicated to a magical alicorn that would eat him if he didn’t offer candy didn’t really help in the slightest. “Come on Clay. You get candy…you do still like candy, don’t you?” “Yes.” “And you don’t want Nightmare Moon to gobble you up, do you?” “N-no!” “Well then get your costume on so we can go.” Clay sighed and got off the bed to get on his costume which was a poorly made Wonderbolt jumpsuit with fake wings on the back and goggles without lenses. Clay stretched the goggles over his eyes and left his room and headed down stairs where he found his mother waiting by the door. “Now that is the cutest Wonderbolt in all of Equestria.” Dash said, trying to boost his confidence. Clay smiled, but was soon startled by a knock at the door. Dash opened it to reveal Pinkie Pie in her chicken costume, with two colts and two fillies, one of whom he recognized as Dinky. “Aunt Pinkie Pie!” Clay ran up to give Pinkie a tight hug. “Hiya Clay! You ready to go get some candy?” “Y-yeah…um Aunt Pinkie…there aren’t any real monsters outside, are there?” “No of course not! Well, except for Nightmare Moon, but as long as we give her candy she won’t gobble us up like cupcakes, or cookies, or maybe even…” Pinkie stopped when she saw the glare that Rainbow was giving her. “Uh…don’t worry Clay, you’ll be safe with your Aunt Pinkie Pie.” Clay looked back at Rainbow with a confused expression. “Why aren’t you wearing a costume mommy?” “Heh, I’m not really into the candy stuff anymore. I’m just going to stay home tonight.” Clay’s eyes widened. “You're…you’re not coming?” “Sorry Clay, but I’m a little too old for that stuff.” Clay’s eyes began to glisten. “But I wanted to spend Nightmare Night with you, mommy.” Dash’s face fell as she saw her son’s eyes filling with tears. She walked up to him and placed a hoof on his shoulder. “I’ll tell you what. You go with Pinkie Pie and I’ll see if I can catch up with you later okay?” “Okay mommy.” Clay wiped the tears from his eyes. Dash smiled and ruffled his mane. “Now behave, and have fun.” “I will mommy!” Clay ran off and joined Pinkie and the others. Dash went back inside the house and gave a wicked grin as she went to a trunk in the living room and pulled out a Shadowbolt jumpsuit. This one wasn’t like the one she wore when Princess Luna made her first appearance. This jumpsuit was the real thing, she had won it in a bet with a real Shadowbolt, and she was dying to use it as her costume tonight. Dash hadn’t technically lied to Clay, she wasn’t doing this for candy. But she was doing this to have fun. Dash flew to her room and donned the jumpsuit, then placed the yellow lensed goggles over her eyes. Dash loved being a Wonderbolt, but she had to admit, as she inspected herself in the mirror, that dressing up as a Shadowbolt made her look cool, even scary in the right light. Unlike the navy blue that the Wonderbolts wore, the Shadowbolts preferred the colors black and purple, and the logo itself was a skull and crossbones pattern. Dash grinned as she finished admiring herself, and flew down the stairs and out the door. “This going to be fun.” She thought as she soared over the clouds. Dash had it all worked out. As soon as the nearest group of ponies walked right under her storm cloud, all she had to do was give it a good kick and the thunder would scare the horse apples out of them. It was an old prank sure, but it was always good for a laugh, and besides it was all in good fun, wasn’t it? Dash hid in the black cloud as she heard the sound of hoof steps approach, and she waited for the right moment. She listened as the sounds drew closer…closer…closer. She picked her moment and gave the storm cloud a hard kick. She was rewarded with a loud crack of thunder and the sound of screaming. Dash fell on her back laughing hysterically. “This prank is still funny!” Dash caught her breath and looked over the cloud to see if the ponies had either run or wet themselves. Her eyes widened when she saw Pinkie and the colts and fillies she was watching. She looked to the group and saw a tiny colt wearing a Wonderbolt jumpsuit. “Clay.” Dash’s heart began to sink as she saw him curled into a little ball on the ground, whimpering. Dash landed on the ground and approached him, but before she could calm him down he let out a loud scream. “No don’t eat me!” Clay shouted at the Shadowbolt, tossing his candy at Dash. He ran as fast as he could towards home. “Clay wait!” Dash took off after him and soon found him banging on the door of their house. “Mommy, let me in, please! Nightmare moon is going to eat me! Please don’t let her get me, Mommy!” Dash landed behind the terrified colt and grabbed him, causing Clay to scream and kick begging for his life. “Clay calm down, it's me, mommy!” “Mommy?” Clay stopped kicking and looked back at the Shadowbolt. She placed him on the ground and removed her goggles and hood. Clay looked at her, confused and scared. “Why…why did you scare me, Mommy?” “I…I didn’t mean to scare you Clay, it was just a prank.” “A…prank?” “Yeah you know a joke. It was supposed to be funny.” Clay looked like he was on the verge of tears. “It wasn’t funny, Mommy. It was scary. I thought you were going to eat me.” “Clay, I didn’t mean to scare you. I’m…I’m sorry.” Clay backed away slightly, looking down at the ground. “You were really scary, Mommy.” “I know…I’m sorry, Clay.” Dash walked up to him and placed a hoof on his shoulder. Clay looked up at her and then hugged her tightly, and Dash returned the embrace. She felt sick for scaring Clay so badly. The prank was supposed to be all in good fun. But no prank, no matter how funny it was to her, was worth seeing her son so upset and frightened. “I want to go home.” He sobbed. “Okay.” Dash whispered as she began gently stroking his mane. Clay released Dash and then realized something. “Oh no! I forgot to give Nightmare Moon my candy! Now she’s going to gobble me up!” Clay began to cry again, and Dash’s heart began to break. “That won’t be necessary.” A regal sounding voice said behind Clay. Clay looked behind him to see a dark blue alicorn with a mane and tail that flowed elegantly. “P-princess Luna?” Clay asked, bewildered. “Yes Child.” Luna replied in the same regal tone. “The bounty has been so large this year I do not think that your candy will be necessary this Nightmare Night. Therefore Nightmare Moon shall spare you tonight.” “How…how do you know?” “I have my ways.” Luna said winking to Rainbow Dash. “You may go home and sleep soundly tonight child.” Clay smiled as Luna spread her wings and took off into the night sky. Dash started to walk into the house when Clay spoke. “Mommy?” “Yes, Clay?” “I know that I don’t have to give my candy to Nightmare Moon, but…can I still get some candy…with you?” Dash looked shocked. “Even after I scared you?” “I was scared…but…I know you would never scare me on purpose and…I still want to spend Nightmare Night with you, Mommy.” Dash smiled, trying to fight back a tear. “I’d love to Clay.” Clay walked up to Dash and nuzzled her leg. “Thanks mommy.” “You bet. Now come on, Nightmare Night is still young! Let’s get some sweets!” Dash placed the hood and goggles over her head and ran after Clay. They went from house to house spending Nightmare Night the way it was meant to be spent; together.
Rainbow Dash the Wonderbolt“Clay I know you’re upset, but Mommy can’t stay home today I have to go to work.” Dash looked down at sad colt in front of her, feeling twinges of sadness and guilt as she looked into his brown eyes. “But…but…I…I don’t want you to go Mommy.” “I know, and believe me Clay, I want to stay home with you too. But the Wonderbolts need me to perform tonight.” Clay was not happy with her answer. “But. . . today's Mother’s Day. . . I won’t even get to do anything with you. You’ll be gone all day!” “Clay, I’m really sorry, but I can’t take today off. Spitfire is the one in charge and she needs me to be at Cloudsdale.” “Can’t you just pretend to be sick like last time?” “I don’t think I would get away with that again. . . and I don’t want you pretending you’re sick, either. Got it?” Clay hung his head depressed. “It’s not fair.” He muttered angrily “I know it’s not, but I’m not the only mom working today. Dinky’s mom is working late too. Maybe you two could get together and play?” “I don’t wanna play with Dinky! I wanna play with you!” Dash began to rub her temples as she began to feel a migraine forming. “Clay, honey I know that this isn’t fair, and I know that you want to spend time with me I do too. But the fact is that I have to go to work or else I can’t bring home bits so we can afford everything we have. Besides you’re birthdays coming soon don’t you want some new presents for your birthday?” Clay looked up at his mother, his lip quivering. “All I want for my birthday is for you to be home, Mommy.” Dash cocked an eyebrow. “You don’t mean that Clay.” “I do…I…that’s all I want Mommy.” Rainbow's heart was breaking into tiny fragments as tears began to stream down Clays face. Trying to calm him down she brought him in close with a foreleg and nuzzled his face. “I'll be home for your birthday. I’ll even be up when you get up, I promise.” Clay looked like he was about to speak, but he kept quite besides the occasional sniffle. “Aunt Fluttershy’s going to stop by later to baby-sit you. So I need you to behave yourself while I’m gone, okay?” “I…I will Mommy…and I’m not a baby!” Dash chuckled. “I know you aren’t. Now go play while Mommy gets ready for work.” Clay slowly walked up to his room while Dash followed behind. They both went to their rooms keeping quiet for the next thirty minutes. Soon after there was a knock at the door and Clay was the first to answer. He opened the door to reveal a butterscotch Pegasus with pink hair. “Hi Aunt Fluttershy!” Clay said excitedly. “Hello Clay, my you’ve gotten big since the last time I saw you.” Fluttershy whispered in her usual gentle, timid voice. “Uh-huh. I grew three inches!” “Oh my. Soon you’ll be as big and strong as Big Mac.” “Really?” Clay asked stunned. “Mm-hm. By the way is your mother still here?” “Yep. She’s just getting her…uniform.” Clays face fell. “What’s wrong Clay?” “T-today is mother’s day.” “Oh…I see.” “Why does Mommy have to go to work? Why can’t she stay here?” Fluttershy placed a hoof on Clay’s cheek. “Sometimes mommies and daddies have to miss out on things with their kids because they have too, Clay.” “But…why does she have to go?” Fluttershy looked at the heart broken earth pony and gave him a gentle hug. “Clay…would it help if we pretended that I was your mommy…just for today?” “It wouldn’t be the same.” Clay sighed sadly. “I guess not…I’m not as assertive as Rainbow is.” As Fluttershy released Clay, Rainbow started to climb down the stairs. “Thanks for coming Fluttershy. Sorry I can’t talk, but I need to get to Cloudsdale ASAP.” “It’s no trouble, Rainbow. I love babysitting Clay.” Dash ruffled Clay’s hair, then turned to open the door when something tugged at her back leg. She looked behind her to see Clay holding onto her leg tightly. “Clay…stop it.” Clay looked up at Rainbows rosy eyes and said in a small voice. “I’ll miss you, Mommy.” Rainbow blinked as he released her leg and looked to the ground. She turned to him, sat down, and gave him a tight hug, feeling his soft little body against hers. “I’ll miss you too Clay.” She kissed the top of his head and held the hug for a few more seconds before releasing him and standing back up. She gave his mane one last ruffle and then left the house where the sounds of flapping wings were heard outside. Rainbow Dash had reached the stadium in Cloudsdale where she and the other Wonderbolts would perform that day. She spotted Spitfire and started to walk over when she overheard a young filly Pegasus and her mother talking. “Do you like the tickets that me and Daddy got for you, Mommy?” The filly squeaked. “I love them sweetie. I can’t believe that you and your father actually managed to get Wonderbolts tickets for the three of us!” “Daddy said that you always wanted to see the Wonderbolts and I thought it would make the perfect Mother’s Day gift.” The mother pegasus smiled her daughter. “I love my gift, sweetie, but I already have a great Mother’s Day gift.” “What’s that, Mommy?” The filly asked curiously. “You.” The filly smiled and hugged her mother as she returned it. “I love you Mommy.” “I love you too, Humming Bird.” The mother replied. As the two ponies hugged, Dash’s chest began to tighten due to what she was witnessing. She thought of Clay for a few seconds and continued her walk to the back of the stadium with her head dropped slightly. “There you are, Rainbow Dash. You ready for tonight’s show?” asked Spitfire. “Yeah, I guess.” Rainbow said unenthusiastically. “Wow, what’s with you? I’ve never seen you so down before a show.” “I just…have a lot on my mind right now.” Spitfire raised an eyebrow. “Well, I need you at your best today, so leave that personal stuff at the door okay?” Dash gave a slight nod. “Good. Now come on, the others are already inside.” Spitfire pushed past the door, and Rainbow followed still looking sadly at the floor as she entered. Dash was in the locker room with Spitfire and the other mare Wonderbolts, putting on her uniform from her saddle bag. As she placed the goggles over her head, she placed the saddle bag in her locker and was surprised when a piece of paper fell out and floated to the floor. Dash picked it up and sat on a bench so she could unfold the paper. When she did she saw that it was a crudely drawn picture of a Pegasus Wonderbolt with a rainbow mane and tail, and beneath the Wonderbolt were bold colorful letters that spelled “HAPY MODERS DAY MOMY” As Dash finished reading her eyes began to fill with tears and she found it difficult to suppress the sobs that threatened to escape her throat. She had never thought much about Mother’s Day before, mostly because it simply reminded her that she no longer had a mother. Yet right now it was the only thing that was filling her mind as she sat on the bench. She didn’t want to be here, she wanted to be with her son telling him that she loved him and playing games with him. Rainbows sniffling caught the attention of Spitfire, who walked over to her coworker and saw the picture in her hoof. “Rainbow…I’m sorry.” “I shouldn’t be here.” Dash sobbed. “I should be at home with my son.” Spitfire placed a hoof on Rainbow’s shoulder and gave a sympathetic look. “I know it doesn’t feel right. But we can’t do this performance without you.” Dash wiped her eyes and placed the picture in her bag, then shut her locker. Then she put on her bravest face and left with Spitfire to perform. So far the airshow had gone off without a hitch, all that was needed was her sonic rainboom and that would be the end of it. Dash soared as high as she could and then began speeding back down to the ground. She pushed the wind barrier, causing a large colorful explosion, but she didn’t stop. Instead she kept going and a few seconds later a second sonic rainboom exploded from Dash as she left a rainbow streak in her wake. The crowd went wild as the second explosion expanded across the sky. Rainbow landed on the stadium with Spitfire and the other Wonderbolts and bid the crowd farewell. Spitfire and the others talked excitedly around Rainbow, not believing what they had witnessed. “Rainbow Dash how did you do that!?” asked Surprise, a white and yellow Pegasus Wonderbolt. Dash’s only response was a smile. As Spitfire and the others left the locker room, Dash stayed behind as she placed her jumpsuit into her saddle bag and placed it onto her back. She shut the door, and then reached into the bag to pull out the drawing Clay had made her and smiled at it as a tear began to run down her face. “That was for you Clay.” She whispered. Dash placed it back into her bag then left the locker room. As she left the building she saw Soarin, Spitfire and several other Wonderbolts looking at her smiling. “Hey Dash, we’re going over to the thunder dome to celebrate a great show and your double sonic rainboom. You want to come with us?” Soarin asked eagerly. Dash looked to her coworkers and smiled. “Sorry guys…but I have other plans.” All the other ponies looked at her confused, except for Spitfire who smiled, knowing what she intended. Rainbow waved goodbye to the others and then took off into the sky, flying home as fast as she could to the pony that mattered to her more than anything in Equestria. Soon she was once again on solid ground and before she knew it the front door had flung open to have a small colt running up to her happily. Clay hugged her tightly and she did the same. “I missed you Mommy.” Clay said happily as he continued hugging her. “I missed you too, squirt.” Dash replied a small tear running down her face. “I saw your picture.” She reached into her bag and pulled it out so he could see. “Do you like it?” Clay said excitedly. To be honest the words were misspelled, the lines weren’t completely straight, and the Wonderbolt didn’t look too much like her save for the multicolored mane. But Dash simply smiled. “I love it Clay.” She gave Clay a warm hug, and he returned with a big grin on his face. “Happy Mother’s Day, Mommy.” Clay said happily. “Thank you Clay.” Dash whispered. The two ponies sat there enjoying the hug, as the sun began to descend leaving the sky a beautiful orange.
Epilogue: Sweet as CiderIt was finally here. The time of the year that Rainbow Dash looked forward to more than anything else, cider season. She relished in the taste that was only available during that special time of year, and everypony knew that nothing would stop her until she got a mug. . . normally. The problem was that every year, no matter how early she got there, Pinkie Pie would get ahead of her first and buy a ridiculous amount of cider. Dash was pretty sure by now that it had something to do with Pinkie Sense. Today she had even less chance of obtaining cider, as she had to drop Clay of at school. Still it was worth a shot. They had just reached the front of the school building and dash planned to head straight from there over to Applejack's. “Now behave for Miss Cheerilee, and pay attention. Okay squirt?” Dash looked down at the slightly tired colt. “I will, Mommy. I *yawn* promise.” Clay gave his mother a goodbye hug and then walked off to meet up with his friend Dinky. Dash watched on for a few minutes, reflecting on how much Clay had grown over the years. She felt a deep sense of pride that she had gotten him this far in life. Hello Rainbow! Cider season! Now! Dash shook her head as her inner voice shouted at her. Rainbow Dash flew off into the sky and headed over to Sweet Apple Acres as fast as she could. Within minutes she could see the farm perched on top of the hill and a small stand where Applejack would sell her heavenly cider. “Please don’t be long. Please don’t be long. Please don’t be…” She stopped and her eyes widened in horror as she saw a line from the small stand all the way down the hill. But what really upset Dash was the fact that once again Pinkie was at the front of the line. “How…how does she keep doing this!?” Dash groaned and landed on the ground, and taking her place in line. “This is going to suck.” Dash muttered as she saw Pinkie walking past her with at least twelve tankards of cider. The line moved at a snail’s pace, and as time passed more and more barrels of cider were replaced by Big Mac. Finally it was almost her turn and for once there was still a spare barrel left which meant that for the first time in years Rainbow would finally get a cup of her favorite beverage. There were just three ponies ahead of her, then two, then one. Her mouth began to water in anticipation as she imagined the sweet fluid in her mouth, but in the distance she heard the school bell ring and she knew what that meant. “Oh no. No. It can’t be time to pick up Clay already.” As if to answer the bell rang again. She couldn’t believe it. She was so close only to have her desire ripped away from her. “One cup, just one cup. Is that too much to ask for?” Dash grumbled as she saw that it was her turn. “You're next, RD. It's right here waitin’ for ya.” Applejack said happily. Dash looked to the stand, then the school in the distance. As she was being torn from choosing she gritted her teeth in frustration and turned to Applejack. “Sorry AJ…I’ve got to get Clay.” Applejack looked stunned at first knowing how much Rainbow Dash loved her apple cider, but then she smiled and gave a small nod as Dash launched into the sky. Rainbow Dash landed at the school entrance and immediately spotted Clay sitting on the steps with his saddle bags. Clay ran over and gave her a loving hug and looked up at her, seeing her disappointment. “What’s wrong, Mommy?” Clay asked. “Oh, I just didn’t get any cider that’s all.” Clay looked at his mother as if he was thinking, and then he ran off to his saddle bag. He picked up a cup sitting next to it, and brought it over to her. “What’s this?” Dash asked curiously as Clay held out the tankard. “It’s a cup of Aunt Applejack’s cider.” Dash raised an eyebrow. “How could you have gotten a cup of cider when you were at school all day?” “Aunt Pinkie Pie came over while I was waiting for you to pick me up, and I asked if I could have one of her cups and she said yes.” Dash looked at the cup, and then to Clay. “Honey… I can’t drink this it’s yours.” Clay shook his head. “I want you to have it, Mommy. I keep hearing how much you like it and you never get any of it, so I got it for you.” Clay brought the cup closer to Dash smiling broadly. Dash looked at the cup again and took it in her hoof. She hesitated at first, but soon she brought it to her lips and was met with the sweetest tasting cider she had ever had. Her lips curled into a smile as she slowly gulped the beverage before removing it from her mouth to lick her lips. “Is it good mommy?” Clay asked excitedly. “It’s the best thing ever!” Dash said still smiling. “Wow I can’t wait to try some myself.” Dash frowned slightly knowing all too well that there wouldn’t be any cider for Clay until tomorrow. She looked back down at the tankard and saw that it was still half full. She then looked to Clay and then smiled. “How about we share it?” Clay’s eyes widened in excitement and he shook his head as Dash handed him the mug. Clay took a few careful sips, testing the taste. After a few seconds he licked his lips and took another larger sip. “Wow! This the best drink ever!” Clay shouted happily as he handed the tankard over to his mother. “I know, right?” Dash took a few gulps and sighed happily. “Hey Mommy, can you take me over to the park so I can play?” “Sure thing, Squirt. It’s the least I can do since you got me some cider.” Clay picked up his saddle bag and walked alongside his mother as they headed for the park where he met Dinky and played a short game of tag while Dash sat and watched. Making sure to not take her eyes off of him this time. Celestia's sun began to set as Clay and Dash sat on top of a hill taking in the beauty of the scene. Clay snuggled up to her and looked to the sunset. “I like the sunset Mommy…it’s so pretty.” Dash looked down at Clay smiling. “Yeah…it is pretty isn’t it?” Clay rested his head in her side and sighed happily. “Mommy.” “Yes Clay?” “Do you love me more than cider?” Dash chuckled as she looked at him. “You are sweeter than any cider Applejack could make.” Clay smiled and nuzzled Rainbows side as he started to shut his eyes. “Mommy.” Clay said sleepily. “Hmmm.” Dash replied, feeling tired herself. “Do you think that maybe someday…I could fly like you?” Dash looked at the sleeping colt by her side and smiled. “I’m sure that if you want it bad enough… some day you will fly like me.” Clay was now lying down on all fours with a big smile on his face. “Thanks Mommy.” Dash smiled with dreamy eyes.“You’re welcome, sweetie.” Dash rested on her front next to Clay and draped her wing over him like a blanket, and rested her head as she pulled Clay closer to her. As she watched Clay sleep she began to remember the day she found him, and how at the time it seemed like she had made the biggest mistake of her life. But now as she saw him sleeping peacefully under her wing and felt the warmth from the sun on her face, she realized that Clay was the most important and happiest decision she had ever made. The start had been rough and she doubted herself once in a while, but she wouldn’t trade that day she found Clay for anything in all of Equestria. After all she was his mommy now, and forever. THE END
Earth Ponies Don't FlyTwilight and her friends basked in the warmth of the sun as they played with their pets. They brought Owloysius, Winona, Gummy, Angel, Opal, and Tank to the park every once in a while, just stay out and have fun. But today Rainbow Dash brought her son Clay along as well. As Dash watched from a nearby tree, Clay played a game of hide and seek with Tank. The tortoise popping his head in and out of his shell always put a smile on Clay’s face, and in turn it would put a smile on hers as well. Dash reclined on the branch, placing her head on her “tree” pillow, and exhaled as she got settled. “Rainbow, shouldn’t you be keeping an eye on Clay?” Applejack asked, rousing Dash from her sleep. “Aw, don’t worry. He’s too preoccupied with Tank to go anywhere, and besides I can always catch up with him if I need to chase him.” Applejack raised an eyebrow at her, so she added, “I’m not going to nap that long. Just five minutes, eight tops.” Applejack rolled her eyes and trotted back to her dog. As Rainbow slept and the others played none of them noticed that Clay had split from the group. Clay had spotted a butterfly that had flown close to him and he began chasing it. As he did he went farther and farther from his mother and Aunts. “Hey, come back here!” Clay swiped at the butterfly and missed. “Darn it.” He continued the chase and eventually reached the top of a hill trying his best to capture the elusive butterfly. As he reached for it, the insect flew away from the hill where he couldn’t grab it. Clay looked down the hill and then back to the butterfly. “If Mom can do it, so can I.” He started to back up, squinting his eyes as he focused. Clay ran as fast as he could and jumped off the hill reaching for the butterfly, but as soon as it was within reach Clay began to drop. He hit the ground hard and rolled all the way to the bottom, getting the wind knocked out of him. When he finally stopped rolling he shook his head and looked down to see that his knee was bleeding. Between the pain and witnessing his blood Clay panicked and began to cry. Rainbow was still asleep when she heard a cry in the distance. She opened her eyes and was horrified when she looked to see Clay on the ground crying. She flew off the branch and landed beside her son. “Clay, what happened!” Clay tried to talk, but he found it difficult through his tears. He looked down at his leg and Dash saw the injury. “Oh my gosh you’re hurt! Clay, I’m so sorry!” Clay continued sniffling as the rest of his Aunts came running up. “Rainbow what happened?” Twilight asked worried. “Clay hurt his leg.” Dash picked Clay up and embraced him as he sniffled. “It hurts, Mommy,” He cried. “Don’t worry, Clay. I’ll fix it.” Twilight bent down and touched her horn to his injured leg. With a bright flash it was healed. “All better.” Twilight gave his leg a small kiss as she backed away. “Thank you, Aunt Twilight.” Clay sniffed. “You’re welcome, sweetie.” Twilight said smiling. “I’ll take Clay home. Rainbow you get Tank and head back,” said Applejack. Rainbow nodded, but was rather reluctant to let go of Clay. When she did, she watched him and Applejack walk home in silence. “Rainbow Dash, are you alright?” Fluttershy asked, worried. “I’m a terrible mother.” She whispered. “What?” Pinkie said startled. “I let Clay get hurt because I wanted to take a nap.” She hung her head shamefully. “What kind of a mother does that?” “Rainbow you made a mistake. And Clay is all better now, so don’t worry about it.” Twilight reassured. “But…what if next time it’s more serious? What if I’m not around next time? What if you aren’t around next time? What if…” “Rainbow, dear, it was just an accident. These things happen.” Rarity interrupted. “But what if next time he runs into a bear or something?” “Oh, there aren’t any bears around here. Unless Clay went into the Everfree Forest he wouldn’t run into one,” Fluttershy whispered. “Rainbow, I think you might be overthinking this a little.” Twilight said kindly. Dash glared at her friends. “Don’t you get it!? Clay got hurt because I wasn’t watching him! If he leaves the house again and I’m not around it might not go so well next time!” Her chest rose and fell as she began to imagine terrible things happening to him. “I need to make sure he gets home okay!” Before anyone else could speak Rainbow Dash took off grabbing Tank as she zipped by headed for home. Within minutes Rainbow was outside her home and swung the door open. “Clay, Applejack are you guys here!” “We’re in here RD!” Rainbow looked to see Clay and Applejack in the kitchen making him dinner. She breathed a sigh of relief as she placed Tank on the floor. “You got here quick Rainbow. I figured ya would have finished your nap instead.” Applejack said with a hint of sarcasm. Rainbow glared at her. “What, you think that’s all I do!?” Clay and Applejack looked startled. “No I just didn’t expect to see ya back so soon.” Rainbow walked over to Clay. “My son got hurt and I wanted to make sure he was okay.” She kissed the top of his head. “I’m fine, Mommy. Aunt Twilight used her magic remember?” “I know, Clay, I just wanted to make sure you were safe.” Rainbow Dash sat at the spot beside Clay at the table. “We got here safe enough. Are yah hungry? I was just about ta make Clay dinner.” “No thanks I…I lost my appetite.” Applejack shrugged. “Suit yourself.” Applejack finished preparing the food and placed it in front of Clay. “Hay fries my favorite!” Clay dug in and started eating. “I’m gonna head back to the farm RD, see you later. Bye Clay!” Applejack ruffled his mane. “Bye Aunt Applejack!” Clay called out as she left. As Clay resumed eating Dash watched him silently. “What’s wrong mommy? Aren’t you hungry?” Dash shook her head. “No. I’m fine Clay.” Despite what his mother said Clay took a fry and offered it to her. “Thanks sweetie.” She took it smiling and popped it into her mouth. “Clay I’m sorry.” “About what?” Clay asked. “For not watching you, and letting you get hurt.” She replied sadly. “It’s okay mommy. It wasn’t your fault.” Dash smiled. “Thanks Clay, but I still feel terrible that I let it happen. I should have been watching you.” “It was my fault, Mommy. I haven’t figured out how to fly yet.” Dash raised an eyebrow. “Haven’t learned how to- wait, what?” “Fly. I was trying to grab a butterfly and it was in the air, so I tried to fly like you, but I guess I didn’t get it right.” Dash looked at Clay uncomfortably. “Uh, Clay, I’m sorry, but you can’t fly.” Clay looked at her confused. “Why?” “Well, because you don’t have wings like Mommy.” She flapped her wings a few times. “Won’t I grow them later?” Now Dash was really uncomfortable. “Clay…you’re an earth pony like Applejack and Pinkie Pie. They don’t have wings, and they never will.” Clay looked dumbfounded. “You mean…I…I can never fly like you?” “Yes…I’m sorry sweetie.” Clay’s eyes began to glisten. “But…but I want to fly like you mommy. You make it look so fun.” “It is fun Clay, but the fact is that earth ponies and unicorns can’t fly, just like Mommy can’t use magic.” “But how come I don’t have wings like you?” Dash shook her head. “I don’t know. Your real dad or mom must have been an earth pony. Or maybe they both were.” Clay frowned. “But Pumpkin Cake and Pound Cake have earth pony parents and they can fly and use magic!” “I don’t know why that is Clay, maybe they were just lucky or something?” “It’s not fair! I want wings.” He crossed his front legs. “I know it’s not fair, but you can’t change who you are Clay. Besides what would Aunt Applejack say if she saw you like this?” “I don’t care! I want to fly with you mommy!” His eyes became moist and his lip trembled. “I want you to fly with me too Clay, but you can’t.” “Can't Aunt Twilight make some wings for me with her magic?” “I don’t think there is a spell that can do that, Clay.” Dash lied. Dash knew there was a spell that could give a pony wings, but they were fragile and the thought of Clay falling from so high filled her with dread. Clay hung his head in defeat and a small tear ran down his face. He stood there for a moment and then looked up at Dash with sad eyes. “Mommy…” “Yes Clay?” Dash whispered. “Do you… love me?” Dash was startled by the question. “Why would you ask something like that?” “Because I don’t have wings.” The tears in his eyes began to flow more steadily as he looked at her. “Clay, of course I love you. Don’t ever ask that question again.” Dash reached over and gave him a hug trying to comfort him. “I love you so much Clay.” She replied rubbing his back affectionately. “Even…*sniff* even if I can’t fly?” Clay looked back up at his mother and she smiled down at him. “Even if you can’t fly.” Dash hugged him tighter as Clay rested his head on her chest. “Thanks mommy.” Dash gave a small nod as they held each other in the loving embrace. Night had fallen and Dash was sleeping soundly in her bed when she heard a noise at her bedroom door. She turned on her bed lamp and spotted Clay at her door. “Clay? What are you doing up?” “I…I had a nightmare.” “Oh…I’m sorry.” “Can…can I sleep with you?” Dash nodded and pulled the covers away from the bed, allowing Clay to get in her bed. Clay walked over and jumped onto the mattress and laid down next to her. Dash pulled the covers over him and her. “Comfy?” “Mmmhmm.” Clay replied. “Good *yawn* now let’s get some sleep. And remember, if you have another nightmare I’m right here, okay?” Clay nodded and Dash began to shut her eyes. As she tried to sleep she felt Clay snuggle up next to her his head buried in her chest. “Goodnight Mommy.” He whispered. Dash opened her eyes and smiled as she looked at the small colt and kissed his head. “Goodnight Clay.” She whispered back. She shut her eyes and placed her foreleg over his body, hugging him while they both slept peacefully and dreamed of flying together.
