Setbacks

“You know how to get to Runswing?” Frost ask.

“Yeah, it’s easy. I don’t even need a compass tonight. Most of it’s just following the north star.”

“Sounds good. If you ever need to swap spots, let me know.”

I don’t say anything but a nod in approval. My walk was speeding up to a dash as I was spreading my wings. My goggles were fit snug against my face. I was ready to fly this journey like I was ready to a race. I could feel the adrenaline building up in me. These were the first real steps towards my biggest dreams. And then, I leaped. There was never any thought of turning back. There is nothing I want more than a chance to prove myself. Tomorrow, and the day after, the world will see me racing against the legends. They’ll see the legends passed by a new legend; Rainbow Dash.

-

Flying above the forests between Ponyville and Canterlot felt so peaceful. The cloudless skies and dark land below gave way to an amazing view of the stars. I wish Twilight were here with me to see this. This is probably the second thing I’ve taken an appreciation for from her. It would be nice to talk about that with her.

“So how big is this tournament gonna be? I hear it’s been getting more hype than any event before it” started Scootaloo.

“Yeah, Strife’s previous event was a major success. It’s crazy how much attention it’s getting” Frost added.

“Last I’ve heard the attendance list reached 722 entrants. This surpasses the largest recent world tournament in nearly 3 years.” I added

“You think you’re going to win, Rainbow Dash?” Asked Scootaloo. I could tell she was asking me to say yes. I don’t know how exactly to break it to her too well. It’s a bit of a lie that I’m always self-proclaiming how great I am. Half of everyone in Ponyville knows how I call myself the fastest flyer in all of equestrian. It’s not so true.

What proof is there about how great I am? I’ve never been able to join the Wonderbolts. Not even after I saved 4 lives during a Best Young Flyer Competition, 3 of which were their’s. I got to show them my stuff for a whole day and… they didn’t want me.

“Yeah, I’m expecting to place high among the top. Definitely top 50” I lied.

“I can’t wait to see you there, Rainbow Dash” Scootaloo remarked. The pressure was getting to me. Frost was right next to her. I’m almost surprised he didn’t mention my real performing skills are. If anyone were to cheer on anyone, it’d be for Frost, especially when he’s at the top of his game. That’s what got him into a team I failed at a golden opportunity to get into. Ever since he got kicked out for his cheating/drug-use scandals, he’s been living a low-profile life in Ponyville. I can only guess what it’s like to have everyone know you, then have everyone hate you.

-

Seeing Canterlot again brings back a lot of nostalgia. I’ve been there several times before. There was the Grand Galloping Gala the six of us went to almost a year after we met Twilight. I got a chance to hang out with the Wonderbolts again. I was so hyped. It sure turned out amazing in the end, didn’t it?

Mention the goggles in chapter 1

[This is where I stopped]