Ponies attain redemption different ways. Some do community service for the less fortunate. Others visit estranged relatives to sort out the troubled past. A few even go on grand adventures across Equestria, saving the innocent and weak from terrifying monsters and villains.

Lightning Dust didn't need any of that. She didn't bow and throw herself down in pitiful humility, begging for a second chance or whipping her back. She took her life by the reigns and steered headlong into the dangerous stunts her flight coaches told her never to do. With a little luck and a lot of skill, she managed to build a crew that attracts record crowds and can go head-to-head with the Wonderbolts.

But when the rival that sent her into this tailspin of success appears at her show, she learns time doesn't heal all wounds. Sometimes, it just makes them deeper.

Takes place before and during "The Washouts".

Editing by zalla661 and Darkswirl.

Now part of the Endings collection.