Dash jets on: RotE Episode 2

Chapters

Freindship Report
Faster
Lecture
AJ's problem
Fluttershy's hat
Advice
Wonderbolts
Beyond speed
Saving the day
Scolding
Education
The impossible

Freindship Report

Dear Princess Celestia,

I know I haven't sent you a report on friendship on a while, but with my focus on my research I've been somewhat distracted. However I did learn something, if not personally. Well, two things actually. The first is that it can be hard to choose between your friends and your dream. The second is really more of a reminder or further evidence, but I still think it's worth repeating. That if you can't find a solution to a problem you should talk to your friends. A different point of view can show you a solution you could never have found on your own.

I am worried that even though Fluttershy was the one who most helped Dash, she needs to learn this lesson more than I do. Refusing to take off a hat isn't dire so I don't feel it's right to press, but I still wish she would just tell us what's going on. Also, if you're not too busy could you explain all the magical properties of phoenix feathers? Fluttershy has checked out the only two books in the library with information on the mythical birds, and I wonder if she knows something I don't about the feather Philomena gave her.

Your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle.

Faster

It was an awesome day. The sun was shining, there were little bits of white cloud everywhere, but never enough to ruin anypony's day, especially mine. I wasn't entirely clear on why some days you had to leave a few of the white puffy little things around, but that wasn't my job. Also it was more places to nap and more clouds to practice with. After that crash yesterday I decided to just stick to speed training today. Nothing hurt that much, but another bad crash like that could change that. Besides with a day this great long distance flying was the thing to do.

Except something was wrong. I still couldn't figure it out, but something didn't feel right. I may not have been the most diligent student when it came to some stuff, but if it was flying I paid attention. So I remembered all the safety junk even if at the time it was so boring. I took breaks, went over the checklist, and got nothing. Something just felt wrong, but not in a way that should result in my falling out of the sky.

"Okay, so how about the sense checklist, yea, that's an idea."

I didn't usually talk to myself, but when I was flying so fast no one else could hear me it became a bad habit. Taste and smell matter less and less the faster you go, and whatever feels off seems to only happen once I'm going fast enough, so I'm sure it's not either of those. Man it's annoying to have to think this though. I should just be flying though the air enjoying the feel of it zipping over my wings.

"Yea, it's not sight, I'm only half paying attention, and high enough up unless I veer off course into Canterlot I'm not going to hit nothing."

Which left the two most important. Feel and sound. Except the wind sounded normal and windy and, the air going over my body felt normal too. I felt a little achy, but I've felt way worse, and it wasn't really bothering me. So what the heck was it? It could be some magic thing, but I wouldn’t know how to check that. Maybe some combo of senses? Then I spun upside down briefly to let out a little frustration.

"What would that even mean? My ears telling me something's blue?"

Then suddenly something came to mind. It wasn't trying to figure out something with both, but that something between two senses didn't match. Again, smell and taste probably couldn't matter, so I focused on the other three, really looking at the sky as it sped past. I also flipped right side up, my momentum only carrying me so far before I started losing altitude. I began to climb, watching the clouds go past, the wind in my ears. Then suddenly I had it.

"I'm going too fast, or the wind too slow."

I was tempted to stop, but forced myself to keep going. I mean I didn't notice it when going slow so that would have just been silly. Fluttershy would have stopped to think about it I'm sure, but she wouldn't have been going this fast either. Now that I knew what was wrong it was obvious. The wind didn't feel right either. It felt like I was going fast, but how fast the land below me went past it should be howling and cutting into my fur. This was almost mild.

"Lets see what happens if I really push it."

Then I tried to speed up a little, leveled off and got ready to dive. Then I heard a sonic boom. I did stop this time. That freaked me out even more because I came to a complete stop way too fast. I turned around to see the mini rainboom behind me. It was a fairly thin rainbow ring that spread out into a vertical ring. Twilight said the full rainboom had some magical component that didn't seem possible to recreate on command, and mostly if I broke the sound barrier I'd just get the little mini rainbooms. Not bad, but not half as cool. No, more like only 43% as cool. But I just did one without a dive then I stopped close enough to it I could clearly see the ring without flying back.

"Oh hay, that makes no sense."

I then looked around. Canterlot wasn't far away. I shouldn’t have gotten anywhere near it for at least another 5 minutes, and probably more like 10. Yet it was totally right there. I should just be happy that I seemed to somehow be even faster, but I've read like every flight book there is, and none of them mention anything like this. Not too long ago there is only one pony I would go to if I needed some bookworm type help, but Luna not only knew a lot, but she was an awesome flier too.

"Oh dang, she's probably still off in Atollantis talking to the water ponies."

There was some other term, and of course for half of them mermare was just fine, but water pony was good enough, even if Twilight disagreed. Twilight has been digging up a bunch of books trying to teach Pinkie about her water pony heritage, but I think she's actually less interested in it than I am. Of course knowing Pinkie she might know it all already, and just didn't think to tell Twilight that. I then shook my head.

"Time to focus Dash. Back to Ponyville and at least the second smartest pony you know."

Unless I counted Celestia. It was odd though. It seemed like she wanted to be our friend, but just decided she wouldn’t be. Maybe it's a princess thing. Except Luna isn't like that. In fact the more I talk to her the more I like her. Also the more I hear the more it sounds like Celestia was disloyal first. Though they also have that sisterly love and hate thing going so I'm not sure I can trust either of them to be objective. Which is lame cause I don't think there is anyone else to say for sure. I then smiled and poured on the speed. I might as well have some fun even if I don't understand what's going on.

Lecture

Twilight had me hooked into that thingamajig in her basement for a little bit, but now we were back upstairs. She was looking though some book, and I was trying desperately not to be bored. I decided to look over the books in the library. The main room was full of magic junk and reference books like always, but something seemed odd about them. I then walked into the back room and suddenly there was a shelf of fiction books. I blinked.

"Twi, did you reorganize the library when you got here?"

"Not right away, but it was a mess. I probably shouldn't have moved all the magic and reference books to the main room but I had to organize them somehow."

"Yea, we were making do without a librarian but things got crazy messy."

"Dash, why are you asking?"

"Because I don't have to go looking though all the boring stuff for the good stuff. Is the historical fiction back here too? Ya know, fighting evil warlocks, armies clashing, slaying dragons, that sort of thing."

Twilight didn't say anything, and I turned to find her suddenly in front of me. Then I blinked and face hooved. I sorta forgot something important there, didn't I? She was staring right at me. Then she shook her head and blinked.

"You're a reader? I'm sorry but…"

"What, its not like I'm some egghead that studies all the time, I just read for fun. I mean books are great. You have to freedom to go as fast as you want…"

Twilight giggled. "And let me guess, you're a very fast speed reader."

"Oh yea." I laughed "I like to think the fastest in Equestria, but I'm pretty sure there must be some egghead out there faster."

"Possibly, but possibly not. Studying is about retention."

"Yea well I remember everything so I'm good."

"This still sounds just, wrong. Dash you…"

I sighed. "I know. It's silly and all that but it's just something I got in the habit of doing. I always meant to tell you, and even just forgot I hadn't." I then laughed.

"Still, the idea of you willingly picking up a book."

I laughed again. "You really do get me Twi. At first I didn't."

"What do you mean?"

"Uh, let me think a second."

I turned back to the shelves and looked over some more titles. Mostly they were the same old books. Thinking about it the stunt was really stupid and she'd focus on those parts so I should probably just leave out most of the details.

"Yea, see there was this one stunt when I was much younger. I was so close to pulling it off too, but then at the last second I drifted a little too far to the left and got my wing caught. Wrenched it out of the socket and broke it in a few places."

Twilight cringed. "That sounds awful. But I don't understand what that has to do…"

"Isn't it obvious? I was in the hospital with nothing to. Well almost nothing. Mom left a whole pile of her books figuring I would finally read them. I didn't read any of the boring ones, but I was so bored I gave in and read the cool ones."

Twilight smiled. "And since then you have had a thirst for the written word."

"Nah, just something good to do when you're resting and bored. But yea, once I started reading stuff that was actually interesting it was great. The freedom to read fast, and unlike TV even if you're just sitting there, you're still really doing something."

"Wait, you don't like TV?"

"Nah, it's not like that. TV can be awesome, but I can only sit still for so long just passively doing nothing."

"Ah, it still seems odd though."

I smiled. "Ah, you're no better than AJ are you? You don't get the way my training regimen works at all."

Twilight smiled. "Oh, I get it. During the rest phases you sometimes watch TV, and often nap, but otherwise you read."

I stared at Twilight. She got it? It wasn’t' that complicated but AJ was always busting my rump about being lazy.

"Wow, you really get it, don’t you?"

"It's obvious. Pegasai have naturally less endurance than earth ponies by a considerable margin, and somewhat lower than unicorns. You work very hard training, and then absolutely must take a rest."

"Yea. Also if you overwork your wings you do more harm than good. So I gotta do something. Also since it's a book I can just stop reading whenever."

"So you like historical fiction?"

"Yea, it's awesome. Derpy and mom have both tried to get me to read some real history books, saying there is just as much awesome stuff, but most history books are so boring."

Twilight giggled again. "That certainly sounds like the Dash I know. So to sum up, you do like to read, but only if it's exciting."

"Yea, and I'm sure there is some magic books you find super awesome, but unless you're a unicorn those all make zero sense."

"That may be, but actually I was looking up some findings in just such a book about pegasai flight."

"Oh, cool. So can you help?"

"Yes, follow me."

I then followed her back into the main room. There was an easel set up with big white cards. It totally looked like a teacher's presentation. I groaned.

"Oh come on Twilight."

"Visual aids never hurt anypony Dash." Then she cringed. "Well okay there was that one time, but who knew the spell would be that effective."

I smiled. "Ooo, that sounds interesting. Tell me about…"

"No." She glare at me, but I just smiled in return. "Getting back to the point, this is about you so I doubt you'll find it that boring. I also plan to keep it fast and simple as possible."

"Good. I mean I know tons of junk about flying, but that doesn't mean I want to sit around and talk about it all day. Ugh."

"Ah. Anyway, it's very simple. As you know, there is bubble, or barrier or…"

"The thing around pegasai that lets us fly and protects us. I'm guessing it's that light blue circle around your stick figure pony there." I then pointed at the first card.

"Yes. Pegasi actually have several types of magic, though like earth pony magic it all very much passive, unlike unicorn magic. It's really a fascinating subject."

"Doesn’t that mean you're totally wrong about Pinkie's Pinkie sense?"

"Well, yes. Though not entirely. Dash, if you fly, you intend it correct?"

"Duh."

"Same with moving clouds?"

"Yea."

"And if you're about to crash, you want it to hurt as little as possible?"

I nodded. "Okay, I get ya. But earth pony magic doesn't even need that, does it. It's how AJ can go days without sleep before she starts going loopy."

Twilight gasped. "Days? Do you mean days of work, like applebucking?"

"Yea, obviously? I mean you do remember…"

"I do tend to loose track of time, so I wasn't really clear, and didn't know for sure she was up all that time. I think I should go recheck…"

"Uh, Twilight. You forgetting something?"

She blinked, then turned back to her little stand, using her magic to pull off the first card to reveal a second, this one covered with facts and figures. The stick figure was diving down, a cone of force distorting the light blue bubble.

"Anyway, you are most likely right, in that earth magic is even more passive, often relying on subconscious desires, thus partially explaining Pinkie's ability."

"Because Pinkie is random conscious, and the subconscious is supposed to be more random than your conscious."

"Uh, maybe not exactly right, but close enough. However, despite what I implied earlier, your bubble is mostly subconscious as well."

"So it got stronger, and somehow that made me faster?"

"Well, yes. See the bubble is really a variety of magical effects generated on the outer edge of your aura. This includes protections, but also the spells that allow you to fly in the first place. With out them…"

"I shouldn't be able to fly. Except we both know that's wrong."

"No, I'm not wrong. That is the way pegasus flight does work. Just because there is one obvious counter argument doesn't mean…" Twilight's eye twitched. "It makes no sense. It's just plain impossible."

I sighed. I better her get her back on track or I'll be here forever. Of course that little exception bothers me too but it drives Twilight bucking crazy.

"Okay, so it does lots of stuff, and it's all linked. So why can I feel the wind less?"

"Oh." Twilight took a deep breath then focused on me again. "It reduces the effects of various forces on you as well. As you can see by this diagram the gravitational forces should rip you apart, and wind resistance should make a sonic boom impossible."

"But pegasai air magic is like, whatever, I'll do the impossible if I want."

Twilight giggled. "That is a way of putting it. You are simply getting better with your magic, as well as like the others having an upswing in overall power."

"Is that why Pinkie got her weird new thing?"

"The shape shifting? Yes, it most certainly is. Water magic is actually very active, and utterly fascinating. I would love to study it more."

"But keeping Pinkie in one place is dangerous."

Twilight laughed. "Something like that. Her grandmother being a hippocampus, or water pony as you put it, created that oddity in her aura that allowed her to use water magic once the magic upswing began."

"But I just get more air, which means I just fly faster?"

"And you should take even less damage from a crash, but please don't take that as a challenge, especially around the library."

"Heheh. Sorry Twilight, I don't know why I smash into the library so often, it just sorta happens. So do you really just have two cards?"

Twilight then pulled off the second with a quick bit glow from her horn. The bubble was there, but there were also other light blue lines. One was in between a pony with no stick figure wings and a cloud. There was also a bubble around a similar stick figure surrounded by dark blue bubbles and recognizable fish. I guess Twilight knew she couldn't draw ponies well so didn't even try. There were also a few blue lines that came from the winged pony and turned into wind blowing past a bunch of stuff being knocked over. Then I suddenly realized something.

"Wait, you said you were just reading about this stuff but why did you have a whole presentation about it set up?"

"Because I thought I might need it soon." Then she smiled.

"Which you totally did. Guess that makes sense. You did say you know all of our magic is going up."

"I was planning to come looking for you and Fluttershy to give you the presentation, but I got a little distracted as I was double checking the presentation."

"So you almost left something out?"

Twilight shook her head. "Oh no, it was a sudden idea I had about earth magic I was looking up actually."

"Eh?"

"Magic is divided into categories, but all of it is linked, even the opposing elements like air and earth."

"Ah. Okay, how about you go on so we can get this done with."

"Of course. First…" She pointed to the wind picture with a hoof. "That is summoning a full fledged wind, not just amplifying wind from your wings. This could probably be extended to making a full fledged tornado eventually but…"

"Twi, I can already do that."

"I mean while staying in one place, and possibly not even moving at all, though obviously you cast with your wings and thus moving your wings might be required."

"Cast with what?"

"All magic needs a focus. Unicorns use our horns, pegasi their wings, and most likely earth ponies use their hooves, but I need to do some more research."

"I sorta want to ask you to explain that more, but its going to be really boring, isn't it?"

"I don't think so, but you most likely would. It's also not important beyond knowing that your wings are required."

"Wait, so does that mean that one." I pointed to the cloud one. "Is the cloudwalking spell? Cause if so that makes no sense."

"My talent is magic Dash. Also no pony is solely rooted to only one element. So yes, two of my examples are the cloud walking spell, and a wind spell modified to create music that I used to calm the ursa minor."

"So what's the third one?"

"An air bubble spell. It pulls the oxygen out of the water so you can breathe underwater and not even get wet. Luna mentioned it in a letter, and it being an air spell. Of course there are always more than one way to do things so there is a water version as well."

"But it's different? Like it literally makes you breath water or something?"

Twilight smiled. "Exactly Dash."

"So, I might be able to eventually do all of this?"

"Possibly. I just want to mention the possibility so you aren't too surprised if something else starts happening."

"Uh, is that it?"

"Yea, but…"

"Then I can get flying again. I'm already way off schedule. I'll see you later."

"Dash, are you okay?"

"This is just a lot to think about, and I think best when I fly."

"Okay."

And I took off. I was even more awesome than I thought I was. I could do things that no other pegasus could do, but something about that bugged me. I zipped out the door and decided I'd focus on just pushing myself for a little while to clear my head then slow down and try to think this through.

AJ's problem

"What ya mean Pinkie's right?"

AJ's shout woke me up. I think I had made at least a hundred of the little rainbooms, crashing though the sound barrier over and over again, just because I could. I even managed it once while I was gaining altitude. It was crazy, and bothered me even more. I figured out why at least, and should really talk to somepony, but I wore myself out completely, and wasn't sure who I wanted to talk to.

"Applejack. This is the fifth time I've cast the spell and there can be no doubt."

"Are you sure about that spell? I mean…"

"AJ. It's the spell I used to find who was stealing your apples. Dash was taking some like you expected, but mostly it was those strange furry bugs."

"So it just all leads back to me?"

"Well Dash is up in the tree above us, and I know that because she stole a few apples earlier, but all the damage to the trunks is you."

"Rainbow Dash!" Applejack yelled "How many times I gotta tell ya…"

"Oh come on AJ, it's no big deal. Most of the time it's like you can't keep the apples off the trees."

I then jumped out of the tree right as AJ was lining up to buck me out of it. I glided to the ground and landed gently. She glared at me, but then turned back to Twilight. Twilight was looking at me intently for some reason.

"So you sure about this Twi?"

"Yes, quite sure. Just try bucking as gently as possible. Clearly the upswing in your own magic has increased your strength though if you were to submit to and examinations so I could get some more detailed readings I could be more sure and it would also help me with my current research greatly."

"I guess I could do that for ya Twi, especially if it might help me too. Still, I got trees to buck, I guess I just gotta be real gentle then?"

"That's what I suggest. I think I'm going to write a letter to Celestia asking her if there are some books on earth pony and pegasai magic I'm not aware of. What scraps I've run across already are quite fascinating. I'd love to read a more focused tome."

I laughed. "Twi, you really are such an egghead. I mean you're doing stuff and studying it directly, but you still want a book. It's just so…" I then waved a hoof a round randomly trying to come up with the right word. "You. So very you."

"Well, I certainly can't argue with that. Literally." She rolled her eyes

"Uh, anyway, later you two I think I'm going to go see Fluttershy about, a, uh, thing."

"You're just the epitome of clarity today, aren't you Dash."

"Yea, you aren't exactly trimming the tree, are ya?"

"Wha?" said Twilight

"What the hay does that mean AJ?"

"Ya know, trimming it back so you can see the apples better."

"Oh." Twilight and I echoed.

"It ain't that weird a saying."

"Yea, sorry AJ, but it totally is. I bet only the apple family ever uses it."

"Well, I should get going."

"Yea, me too. Later both of you."

I then zipped off. Twilight would always listen but I didn't really feel like talking to her, especially if she's busy. Talking to Pinkie could be fun, but was usually pretty pointless if it wasn't about parties or pranks. AJ and I didn't really have a talking sorta friendship, but I guess I could talk to her about this if she wasn't busy. Rarity could be great to talk to unless she got off on some tangent about fashion or other stupid uber-girly thing I couldn't care less about. Fluttershy knew me the best anyway, and she was even a pegasus, even if sometimes it didn't seem like it. Though I'm not too sure that's even what this is really about.

Fluttershy's hat

I couldn’t find it. I know it's a little hard to see from the air, but that was just odd. I thought slowing down would be enough, but I still couldn't find Fluttershy's cottage. I had gone back to try to follow the road out of town, but it was like the path just ended way before it should. I landed to look where it now tapered off, and could just barely see the former path under the greenery that sprung up. On the ground I could just make out something in the distance where her house should be, but it looked even less like a house than normal. I lifted into the air and take off, but then heard a timid voice behind me,

"Rainbow Dash?"

I spun to see Fluttershy only a few feet off the ground behind me. She was wearing that hat again of course. She really refused to take it off. It had been bugging me for a while. Even more since when I mentioned to Pinkie she said that Fluttershy couldn’t be hiding something with her hat because Fluttershy told her she wasn't. I decided it was best not to correct Pinkie for a few reasons. The main one being what I called the birthday incident, though I hadn't talked to anypony about what I saw, just gave them a general warning with no explanation.

"I was just looking for you Flutter. Mare, your path is way overgrown. I don't get how it got that way. I mean it's crazy, and I can't even make out your house from here."

"Yes, the plants have grown a lot, haven't they?" she then smiled broadly.

"Uh, yea. Uh, it's not a problem or anything is it? Because I could have sworn…"

"Oh my no, not a problem at all. No need to talk to anyone, just healthy plants, nothing weird about that."

Then she smiled really big again. Nothing wrong my flank. I then flew into the air and snatched her hat, wondering if maybe it was connected somehow. I flopped it down on my head, not wanting to carry it around, even if it was totally not cool enough for me. I stole AJ's hat all the time and it wasn't that much cooler, but that wasn't about really wearing the hat either I guess. Fluttershy was gone. I was a little confused. I then heard whimpering coming from nearby bush. I took a step closer to see if I could see Fluttershy, but then the whimpering got louder and I could hear her shaking. I stopped.

"There really is something you're hiding with the hat. Flutter, you can tell me anything. Ya know that right? You can count on me for whatever you need."

"Then, please, give it back. Just let me keep it secret."

I sighed. "Fine."

I tiled forward hat starting to fall off my head, then grabbed the hat's brim in my mouth as it fell. Then with a flick of my head sent it flying to the bush. It landed just above where I thought Fluttershy was. I am so awesome. Her head poked up under the hat a moment later. Then she smiled gently. Then she tackle hugged me. She then quickly let go and got up and made sure her hat was strait.

"Oh thank you Dash." Her voice then got quieter. "Sorry about knocking you over."

"Okay, but if it's something really weird, you should really just talk to Twilight about it. Pinkie isn't the only one weird, something is up with AJ and me too, though it isn't quite as extreme as Pinkie."

"Really? But you look normal."

"Actually that's what I want to talk to you about. I have to talk to somepony about it. I sorta don't want to, but sometimes flying doesn't help."

"Oh my, uh, lets go to your house, it would be more comfortable for you I'm sure."

I turned to Fluttershy. "Something is wrong with your house, isn't it?"

"Not wrong, it's just messy and overgrown." She smiled "Don't worry, it's fine."

"Look, I won't tell anypony, but you should probably tell somepony what's going on. It's probably more of this magic surge weirdness Twilight was talking about."

"Uh maybe." She gently lifted into the air. "I haven't been to your house in a while. It will be nice to see any changes."

"I don't think anything's changed, but it is still awesome. I can start filling you in on some other stuff on the way. Please try your best to get there fast though okay?"

"Okay."

Then Fluttershy took off, and I followed. Sometimes I led but I had to be so careful not to completely outpace her if I did. She seemed a little faster for some reason, like she did a little training or something. Also I could swear her wings are a little bigger. I was about to dismiss that completely, but then remembered one of the most terrifying moments of life. Pinkie with a horn, suddenly adding a pair of wings to that. It was literally one of my nightmares come to life. I get now what Twilight was saying, but it still really freaked me out.

"OOO, hello Rainbow Dash. Hello Fluttershy."

I sighed. I could hear the slight buzzing noise behind us. Twilight also went on and on about how with no pegasus magic it was absolutely impossible for Pinkie to fly. Maybe she could glide, but even that was unlikely. Except I noticed every time Twilight said something like that Pinkie got this look her eyes. A determined look probably not unlike the look I did when they said the rainboom was impossible. I think Twilight was really the only one entirely surprised when Pinkie found a way anyway.

Pinkie was good enough now that the wings, horn, or shrinking herself to foal size was completely under her control. Right now it was just the wings. Said wings were flapping up and down so fast they were a blur, just like a hummingbird. Twilight actually found this more unbelievable than Pinkie gaining pegasus magic suddenly. Twilight did prove she didn't of course, via some very boring tests. I still don't know how to feel about it, but when I turned to see Pinkie hovering there with her wings going so fast I couldn't help but smile a little. It was just so Pinkie.

"Oh, hey Pinkie, you need anything."

"Hello." Said Fluttershy.

"We were just going to my house Pinkie."

"Oh, you mean your cloud house. Made of clouds. Clouds I totally can't rest on?"

"The same."

"Uh, maybe we'll talk later then. Yea."

I laughed. Twilight was right though, no matter how different she looked, Pinkie was not a pegasus, and unless she bugged Twilight for the cloud walking spell she would fall right through clouds. She also had a tendency to forget this, and would often stop flapping and fall right though the floor. She then laughed of course, because she was Pinkie. There were some other things that I noticed as well. She was fairly fast in the sky, and highly maneuverable, but her top speed was even lower than Fluttershy's. Not that I'd seen Fluttershy reach her top speed more than about twice. It also really tired her out. Of course Pinkie and a lack of energy are not really compatible concepts so I'm sure that is not going to last. I think it's already fading. A little training can do wonders, even if you don't think of it as such.

"Uh maybe…" Fluttershy began then stopped. "Oh my, wait. I'm sorry. It would really be nice if it was just us Pinkie. Dash wants to talk to me alone."

She nodded. "Okie doki lokie. I'm not going to be a silly Pinkie and worry about my friends plotting behind my back again." She then laughed. "Besides I'm getting the not fun dizzy again, and nurse Readheart says that's probably bad."

Fluttershy and I nodded. I was briefly really worried about Pinkie hurting herself. Then realized, it's Pinkie. Then Pinkie stopped and frowned slightly.

"Aww, you tore your hat. So sad. It's a nice hat."

"T-t-t-tore?" said Fluttershy, suddenly wide eyed.

"Yea, there is an itsie bitsie teeny weeny hole. It's probably that naughty little branch sticking out."

"Branch? Noooooo…"

And Fluttershy was gone. I was really impressed. I did not think she could move so fast. Though I guess she always did speed up when scarred. Still, after a slight smile I frowned. Pinkie put one hoof behind her head, and rubbed it. Then she suddenly laughed. Then she looked down.

"Sorry Dashie, it's just fun not to worry about balance and…"

"I get it. I also know you didn't mean to upset Fluttershy but…"

She gasped. "Omigosh, you mean she didn't just forget she left the stove on? I haven't done that in years but…"

"Weather patrol is also the fire patrol, so yes Pinkie, I remember. Though I remember the times when I didn’t have to help put them out fairly well too."

"Oh yea. So, what did you need to talk about?"

Then Pinkie suddenly dropped about five feet. I quickly circled down to the ground and landed. She eventually took the hint and joined me. When she landed her wings vanished with a meaty "slurp" that disturbed me every time.

"Pinkie, I don't want to be mean but…"

She rolled her eyes. "Don't be a silly filly Dashie. You want to understand something better by talking it out right."

"Yea, and well…"

"I'm awful with that. I know. I used to talk to myself like all the time, but I was tired of being confused all the time so I stopped."

I laughed. "Random to the power of random."

"Ooo, good one." She laughed. "It's even sciencey. Oh! You should talk to Twilight. She knows the best about everything and…"

"Pinkie, I already thought of that, but I already bugged her once today and Fluttershy is always a good listener so…"

"Oooo, Applejack, she…"

"No. I don't want to bug her either, and besides I want to discuss it, and AJ is going to be real stubborn about whatever she believes. It's sort of about cheating and…"

"Huh? Did you cheat?"

"That's the question."

"Well, then you need to talk to Rarity. She loves to talk and talk and talk. She's like super talkie. Mostly about herself, but sometimes she talks about others. Ooo, like Blueblood. Well, I guess that's more complaining. I mean calling him a…"

I stuffed a hoof in her mouth. "That's enough Pinkie. You're right. Besides, Rarity has helped me work through something like this before now that I think of it, so she might be an even better choice then Fluttershy."

"Okay, then I gotta roll. Later."

Pinkie then dropped to the ground and proceeded to roll around on the grass. I then took to the air, and gave a wave before I zoomed off for Rarity's. Maybe this really was right up her alley now that I think of it. Twilight was smart but she was also just a little too by the book. Now that I think of it I could guess her answer. Rarity was crazy uptight about some things, but other things she was much more open minded about.

Advice

I smiled. It was as forced as could be. The main problem with hanging with Rarity is if you caught her while inspired, it was super likely you'd end up a dress. In my case it was with two exceptions a dress I hated. I liked both gala dresses, even if the second was more armor than a dress, and was more like 32% less cool. I could tell a few of them were good dresses. Most of the time Rarity makes Fluttershy a dress for her birthday, and to keep it a surprise I model it even though our builds are different. Fluttershy sure loves all of them so clearly at least one pony thinks loves them.

This time I had been in quite a few way too frilly things, but just briefly, and she didn't mess with my hair. It always bothered me when she complained about how she had to fix it. Sure it's not as fancy as hers, or even Twilight's, but it's not like it looks bad. It's plenty good enough. Rarity then teleported the dress off me, back to where ever it came from. After she didn't add anything new I smiled.

"So we're done?"

"Yes, thank you every so much for your help Rainbow." She fluttered her eyelashes at me like I was some stallion who cared. "Now, what where you saying when you arrived. I think you said you wanted something."

"I said I wanted to talk."

She gave a little titter. "Then why ever didn't you?"

"Because when you're in the zone I can't get a word in edgewise."

I had leaned in, glaring at her. She just smiled gently. I sighed. Rarity was such a drama queen, but if she didn't over react, she probably didn't react at all. It was cool in a way, even if it could be really annoying sometimes.

"Okay, see lately I've been having this issue…"

"Ah, that. Yes, Twilight already told me about it during our lesson."

I blinked. "Lesson?"

"Rainbow, I have one of the greatest mages of our generation not only living in this town, but as a close personal friend."

"But why all of a sudden?"

"Actually I first asked not long after that horrible show mare gave me that absolutely awful hairdo. Surely I don't need to explain to you of all ponies about the joy of self improvement and knowing you're the best at what you do."

"But didn't you just say Twilight…"

"Fashion Rainbow. I cannot best Twilight at magic in general, but I can certainly attempt to learn a few more fashion related spells."

I blinked. "Huh? I thought other than Twilight unicorns only know a few spells and…"

"Oh there are most certainly limits, and most unicorns only learn a hoofful, but if a spell is related to fabulousness, then there is absolutely no reason I can't learn it."

I then took to the air. My wings felt a little cramped and it always feels good to stretch them. Rarity glared at me.

"How is flying rude?"

"That in itself is not, but you are not really looking me in they eyes, which is. Also elevating yourself to a greater height is somewhat rude, even if it is a viable business strategy, and a helpful one at that."

"Uh, yea, whatever. Okay, so you guys talk about me a lot?"

Rarity rolled her eyes. "Hardly. I have made some attempts to gossip, but Twilight is not very receptive. Normally she just lectures on and on about some detail regarding the magic she's attempting to teach me."

"Yea, I know what you mean. I mean she didn't even go into that much detail about what was going on with me and it felt like it lasted forever."

"Really Rainbow, she was trying to help."

I crossed my front legs. "Duh, I know that. It's not like I said anything. I maybe even succeeded in not looking bored."

"I see. Moving on, I understand all that. Now, what does this have to do with your problem, and why aren't you talking to Fluttershy about it? Are you really that desperate to talk to me?"

"Uh kinda." I then shook my head. "But no, after thinking about it a little I realized you're the best pony to talk to. Flutter would have listened without a word, but she wouldn't have said much, and Twilight, AJ, and Pinkie have their own problems."

"I see. Well that sounds unusually perceptive of you. So go on Rainbow, tell Lady Rarity your problem. I'm sure she will be able to help you."

I groaned. Rarity brought up Trixie by far the most of any of my friends, and even though they're all buddy buddy now still griped about the third pony thing. I thought about pointing out the hypocrisy of that but decided it so wasn't worth the drama it would cause. Then I realized I did know what hypocrisy meant and owe mom ten bits because she was so totally right. I might even use it one day and owe her another ten. I landed again. I should probably keep resting my wings, that way I can really push myself in my next practice.

"I feel like I'm cheating."

"How prey tell?"

"This new super charged me. It's too easy. I mean it doesn't even feel like I'm going faster but I am. It's cool but no one else…"

"Ah. Well that's just nonsense."

"Huh?"

"You wish to perform with the Wonderbolts correct?"

I rolled my eyes. "Geee Rare, what do you think?"

"I mean as opposed to merely beating them in a race or some other task that mere speed would be enough for. Also it is your talent."

"I'm fast yea, but this is different this magic…"

"Is, unless I misunderstand, still your magic. It is unique to you, just as many unicorn talents. You have an advantage because you love it. Thus you thrive and love it even more. This is the way of cutie marks."

I blinked. I think I sort of knew all that separately, but not all together. Even if I did it was only right then I got it. Rarity didn’t even blink or have to stop to think about it. I smiled. I already felt a lot better. I then laughed.

"So it's not really cheating, I'm just that awesome. Yea, I really am, aren't I?" Then I frowned. "But still. I mean…"

"You alone can do the sonic rainbooom, and most likely because of this magic that allows you to go faster to some degree. I see no harm in it as long as you don't coast. Push yourself as hard as you can. Strive to be the best that you can possibly be, what does it really matter how much more amazing you are than everypony else?"

"I don't know, it still feels wrong somehow."

"Why do you say that exactly? What is there left to feel wrong about?"

I wasn't sure. I wasn't sure there even was anything anymore. Yet it still felt like there was somehow. Like somehow this was a cheat. I sighed.

"It just does somehow, okay."

"Hmmm, I'm not really sure what else to say. Really Rainbow, this is a bunch of silliness. As I said, strive to be the best. I know no matter how famous I become there will always be more to do. New styles to pioneer, an even more perfect dress to create."

"But it's just…" Then I sighed. "Did I tell you I'm a Wonderbolt?"

She of course fainted. I really should have seen that coming. I also should have been slightly more clear about exactly what I meant to begin with.

Wonderbolts

Rarity was glaring at me. I couldn't really blame her. I mean it's sort of true, but not entirely. I took a deep breath, getting ready to sum it up again. She was sipping some tea she made to study her nerves. Such a drama queen.

"As I said, that huge science party of Pinkie's in the cave attracted a bunch of ponies from all over, even Canterlot, and even some of the Wonderbolts."

Rarity nodded. "That is clear enough. Go on."

"Now I just had to talk to them once I knew they were there. They didn't really want to talk about flying, but I still totally got to party with the Wonderbolts. Then they decided to get some air and stretch their wings and I went with them."

"Again, quite clear. Now the last part, this time in a comprehensible manner."

I still got a huge smile on my face, but forced myself to talk slowly. "They liked my moves so much they inducted me as a recruit right then and there."

"So you'll be flying with them…"

I rolled my eyes. "No, a recruit is awesome obviously, but it really just means I get to train with them and maybe if I'm really good I can be promoted actually train with the current active team."

"Say again?"

"Oh, uh, the recruits are trained by old Wonderbolts not on the team anymore for whatever reason. I mean the active team might help sometimes, but most of the time it's the old timers. Still, training with legends it's just. So. Awesome."

Rarity said nothing for a long time. I couldn’t even guess what she might be thinking her face remaining neutral. She then looked at a small stain on the giant doily she was using as a tablecloth. Her horn glowed, and the stain just vanished.

"Could you always do that?"

"No." Rarity smiled. "Isn't it amazing. Twilight guessed that cleaning fabric is certainly a spell I could master. I must say the further from one's talent the harder the spell, but the effort is quite worth it."

I raised an eyebrow. "Cause now you can clean spots?"

She rolled her eyes. "It's a small thing yes, but I can use it on more serious stains, and each new spell allows greater understanding and eventually more spells."

"Okay. Whatever."

"So why exactly have you not told any of us of this?"

"Because I don't know what I'm going to do. I think I already train more than the Wonderbolts, but where that training is located is an issue."

Rarity got a slight smile on her face for some reason. "Ah, so you feel we'll be upset because you will have to leave us, at least for a time."

"For months, and then I thought about the Wonderbolt's performance schedule and…"

"So now you're so desperate to find some excuse to stay, so your subconscious decided you're cheating and thus all your hard work doesn't matter?"

I stared. Okay, that made some sense. I mean I've been trying to work up the courage for weeks to tell them, but I just couldn’t. Which is dumb because it's not like I'm afraid of anything else. Rarity frowned slightly, but then smiled again.

"Now that that silliness is out of the way, don't worry. We're your friends. We'll support you and still be here when…"

"I can't leave, can I?"

"What? Rainbow I assure you that there is nothing and no pony that will hold you back from achieving your dream. You…"

I smiled. "Yea, you're cool like that, but no, there is only one pony who is awesome enough to hold me back." I then laughed. "And once again she's being a stupid old nag about it."

"What ever do you mean?"

I laughed again. "I mean me of course. I mean come on, everyone loved those wings Twilight gave you, but I'm the Rainbow Dash. I shouldn’t have been worried at all. I'm the only one who can ever really stop me. Even during that race with AJ during the running of the leaves I lost because of me, not her."

"Yes, though…"

I waved a hoof. "Yea yea. Freidship and love and stuff. I got it the first time, no need to repeat a lesson I learned in the most painful way possible."

"Yes, you two really did get into quite the tumble."

I rolled my eyes. "Not that. I mean Twilight beating us. I mean come on."

"Ah. So that being the case, what now?"

I looked down. Good question. Then I laughed again. I wasn't sure I like my answer, but it at least it was obvious.

"Hey Rares, do you think about that first trip though the Everfree much?"

"In my nightmares, which considering we faced Nightmare Moon is only appropriate I suppose, but otherwise no. Though I did ask around about that stylish serpent we met. He sometimes comes downstream out of the Everfree and…"

"You talk about fashion or something else I don't care about."

"Rude."

"Well I do think about it. I mean at the time I was pretty sure the Shadowbolts were real. I've since learned the three I met were really just Nightmare Moon somehow, but Luna also told me the Shadowbolts really did exist."

"Really? Most interesting."

"The point is I think about that moment a lot. I thought how Fluttershy probably could have got the bridge instead, how maybe I should think about not trusting them, how being their captain would be so cool, how good I'd look in black."

"Really? I mean with your colors…" Then she suddenly started. "Hmm, but the contrast. Yes, something monocromatic could work, maybe silver replacing white though. Maybe a little gold. Ooo perhaps…"

"Uh, not that I'm sure whatever you're thinking could actually be awesome, and clearly you'll like it but…"

"Yes, yes. Go on. I must get sketching. Never question inspiration when it strikes."

She then trotted over to a table covered in designs. She pulled a blank sheet of paper from a nearby shelf with her magic as well as a feather and inkwell at the same time. She didn't even need to look at any of them. She was very soon sketching, pen speeding across the paper, only stopping to get more ink.

"Wait, you sketch in ink. I mean wouldn’t pencils…"

"Yes, but I prefer the feel of ink. When I work on refining an idea I do use pencils, as you simply must change some details at times. But for now this is fine."

"So, uh, where was I?"

"You said you thought of many things while on the other side of the bridge. We couldn't even hear you shortly after you crossed."

"Yea, so all this stuff went though my head, but I realized there is one thing that was more important than my dream. I wasn't going to let you down."

"Thus proving you are the element of loyalty." Then she spun around. "Oh no, rainbow you simply mustn't."

"What do you mean?"

"Are you not about to say this is the same thing?"

I shook my head. "Not exactly, but it's close. I realized I wouldn't really be letting you guys down, but, I'm not ready to leave yet."

Then my face was wet. What is up with that? Rarity was soon hugging me. Then my denial failed me when I started sobbing even harder. I so didn't want to be doing this. I mean it's stupid. It's my decision and it's not like I couldn’t wait a while. I mean it's not like it would hurt to be even more awesome. I flew out of Rarity's grasp and turned away wiping the tears from my eyes. Except even though I didn't want to I was still crying a little. I zipped out of the store with a wave and quick "later." I had no idea if Rarity heard me.

Beyond speed

I decided to put the whole business out of my mind for now. Rarity would surely tell the others and I had months before the training began to really decide. I probably wouldn't change my mind, but that isn't important. For now I was just doing what Rarity suggested and pushing myself to fly as fast as I could. It was awesome. I still felt the wind plenty when I really pushed, and the roar was back too. Sure I was going like twice as fast or whatever, but so what. I mean if it got much louder or the wind much sharper it would really start to hurt. I didn't want that.

I wasn't sure exactly how fast I was flying but it was awesome. I flew all the way to Manehattan and back and it didn’t take long at all. I was looking for a nice tree to land in, but I didn't even feel tired. It was still weird, and would take some getting used to, but it was just so awesome. I wasn't going to just be the fastest flyer in Equestria, but anywhere ever. I looked down to see Applejack pulling some carts. A lot of carts. She was trotting along like she wasn't hitched up at all. I then swooped down in front of her and looked at the impression in one of the trees. If she could do that by accident, what could she do on purpose? I cringed.

"Wow, I'm suddenly really glad I haven't tried hoof wrestling you lately."

"Oh, hey Dash. Watcha doing here?"

"Well I was going to take a nap, but I guess I'm not really tired. So, well, I dunno what I'm going to do. I guess I could help you with the bucking. I'm not really inspired to create any new tricks today and I'm not working on anything new right now."

She hung her head. "That would be mighty kindly of ya. I am having the hardest time bucking trees without leaving a dent, even if I'm real gentle like. Ah used to be able to buck any tree without even chipping the bark."

I rolled my eyes. "Yea I was awful at that and…" Then I blinked. "Hey, wait a minute, you said I was doing it wrong, but how were you doing it right?"

"What are ya talking about Dash?"

"I mean if you kicked a wall as hard as you kick your trees you'd at least chip the paint."

"Ah don't kick them as hard as ah can ah…"

"I know, but still. Not even a single chip of bark? I bet this is earth pony magic. I mean pegasus magic is subtle, so earth pony magic is even subtler."

"Is that a word?"

"Is Rarity around?"

"No."

"They there isn't a mare here who cares. So, what do you think? I mean everypony knows earth ponies are good with plants, what if that means…"

"But if it is some kinda earth magic…"

Applejack suddenly stopped talking. For a long time she just stood there. I waved a hoof in front of her face and she shook her head.

"Sorry Rainbow, just remembering something Luna said. She certainly said something about earth pony magic being how we get a proper buck."

"See, totally not my fault."

"Yea, Luna even said as much. But still, that don't make no sense. If it's getting stronger like Twi says why should that make things go all crosswise."

I threw my hooves up. "I dunno. Twi's the one that knows all this stuff, not me. I mean I bet I'm right, but only she could answer your question."

"Ah reckon it does make some sorta sense. Ah mean ah've seen some Unicorns use their magic to make do, but pegasai are just rotten at farming."

I blinked. "I'm surprised one even tried."

"Yea, was quite a shock to me too. He was an odd one, weren't a bad sort, and once he got an earth pony to help out things went much better. He really did know a thing or two about irrigation. Bunch a ponies are using his system now."

"You mean beyond clouds?"

"Some places ain't as moist as Ponyville Dash. Can't get water from a stone."

"Or clouds from a dry sky. I know."

I had been following Applejack as she walked along, indeed not slowed by the carts at all. In fact I think the only reason she wasn't going faster is the carts started to shake too much.

"So is what Twi said right, you're really just suddenly faster."

"Yea I was worried about it, but now so not. Sure I can go really fast with almost no effort, but it just means if I really work I go crazy fast. No problem with that at all."

"Ah'm not real sure about Twi being right about me having some sorta fancy magic though ah mean ah…"

"It's not fancy magic, it's earth magic. It's not the same." I then blinked. "Though it's not like I understand it all that well or anything."

"Ah know, ah know. It's just strange to think that somehow I can do something that no other earth pony…"

"Nah, I'm pretty sure Luna said something along the lines of there used to be all sorts of cool mages, including earth ponies."

"If that's being the case the what the hay happened?"

"Uh…"

Before I could admit I had no clue there was a loud roar, accompanied by a scream. At least I thought it was one scream at first, but then I realized it was a familiar syncronized scream of three little fillies. I just saw some fast moving silver thing in the distance in the direction the sound went.

"What the hay was that."

"I don't know, but I heard the crusaders scream. I think they're in it or something."

"It it? What do you think that contraption could…"

I think there was more to the sentence, but I didn't need to hear it. I realized it was a machine, and that almost had to be bad. Even if they didn't get it from Blinkie, the three of them should not be in a machine going that fast. Especially since as I got closer it was clear how it would not fly strait, often dipping down toward the ground. Another thing I noticed is it was clearly going faster. I made a real sonic rainboom this time for some reason, the full long range colorful shockwave, but I heard the machine make it's boom not long after. Catching it would not be easy.

"Okay Dash, no time to slack, gotta pour on the speed."

I still wasn't quite caught up, but I was close enough to get a good look. It sure looked strange enough to be something Pinkie's crazier sister built. It was cool looking, but weird. It was mostly rocket shaped, like a big firework, even had a bright fiery trail like one. But it had wings. Sort of like those paper airplanes I used to make in class. Then I realized, even though this didn't look much like that weird thing those bicycle earth ponies came up, that's what it was. I always thought airplanes are sort of cool, but pegasai are so much better it's just a weird hobby to make planes.

Of course that did leave one big question though, what the heck was that roaring noise? Shouldn’t it have propellers and such? Unless this is some new idea I have no clue about that Blinkie already mastered. I mean she's nuts, but she's also a total genius. Still as cool as the slick flying gizmo looked it just had to be really dangerous. I especially didn't like the way the big fire spouting cone on the back was not just roaring, but shaking and so hot the metal looked more red than silver.

"I may not remember that much about science and stuff, but I know red hot shaking metal is bad. I need to stop this."

Then I realized a problem. I had no clue how. I finally had caught up, even passed it, but it was still accelerating. I could see all three inside. Applebloom and Sweetie Belle were hugging Scoots tightly. She was probably screaming too, though based on the smile she might actually be having fun. Then they were past me. I pushed myself harder to catch up, but I think I was nearing my limit, and was pretty sure this thing was not. The engine looked even worse. I had to do something, but I didn't have any ideas. I needed time to think. I needed a plan. I needed some way to stop the stupid thing or I'd let every pony down.

I wracked my brain but I had nothing. I know speed, and there was no doubt that even if I could manage it, bucking off the engine would not actually save the crusaders. I thought of Applejack and Rarity especially. I was the only one who could save their sisters, but it just didn't happen. I didn't even know Scoots parents, but they'd be mad too. I shook my head.

"I'm not going to lose. I'm not going to let everypony down. I'm going to keep pushing myself no matter what. I'm going to follow them until I have an answer."

But I was losing them. So I pushed. I pushed and felt a barrier. It was sorta like the rainboom, but not physical like air resistance, just in some more general way. I felt it, and then with a bright flash whatever it was I passed though and suddenly I felt free. Like nothing could stop me. Like I was beyond speed, even though I didn't feel anything at all anymore. I could be drifting as slowly as Fluttershy for all I could tell. Then I blinked.

"Where did it go?"

I looked around. I saw it far in the distance. At first I panicked, but as I spun around I realized it was coming toward me. I had passed it by such a big margin it had faded into the distance, not the other way around. As I got closer something looked wrong. Then I saw a bird below me frozen in mid air. I looked up at the strange plane. Yep, it wasn't moving.

"I really wish I had someone to ask what the hay is going on."

I flew around the thing. The flame trail was moving actually, but not very much. Not close to how it had been earlier. So everything wasn't stopped, just going really, really slowly. I guess I have time now. Then I got what was really going on.

"Oh man, it's not really slow, I'm just so fast it seems that way. Just like the comics."

I then squealed in a fit of fangirlish glee. I couldn't help but fly around a bit, doing a few loops in happiness. Then I stopped.

"Wait, how does it make sense. I mean it should be like moving though molasses if I'm really going that fast."

Then I face hoofed. It's magic obviously. Okay, that was dumb of me. I then refocused on the task at hand. I flew around to the front of the silver thing. The crusaders were still there, and Scoots still looked happy, even though with her mouth open like that it was harder to tell. The glass keeping them in looked sealed pretty tight, but the simplest thing is just to open it up, pull them out, and take them to the ground.

"Except I totally don't know how to open this thing."

I decided to just give it a good buck. I didn’t want to hurt the crusaders so I wasn't just bucking the glass, but where it connected to the rest of the strange plane. A second latter I was flying above the plane, yelping in pain. I'm not sure getting off my legs really helped but it felt better to do something at least. Slowly the pain began to fade. Then I sighed.

"Oh yea, I did think Blinkie built this. I should have known it would be as sturdy as she could make it."

Then I suddenly had another idea. I flew around to the back. Yea, that did not look nearly as sturdy, at least not anymore. Still, I don't think bucking it would be enough. I bet if I did a sonic rainboom in that thing it would come right off easy. Then I face hoofed.

"Ugh, but so might something attached to me, not to mention what it might do to the rest of the thing."

Then I smiled. Okay, I had plenty of time to come up with a plan, and plenty to implement it too. I could get some tools and fly back no problem. I then sped off. Even if Blinkie didn't build this thing she did have some awesome tools.

Saving the day

I decided to just take the thing apart. One weird thing is if I dropped something it only fell for a little bit then stopped once it was far enough away from me. I decided messing with the engine first was a bad idea, so instead I removed all the bolts on the cockpit and just pulled off the windshield. At least I think those were the right terms, non pony powered vehicles are weird. I had thrown the glass away, and pulled out Applebloom first, then suddenly something nearly shattered my eardrums.

"I don' wanna die Scootaloo. Make it stop."

Then Appleboom screamed incoherently again. I dropped her out of shock, and like everything else she stopped after a getting too far away from me. I blinked. Next I put back on the ear covering things next to the tools I borrowed from Blinkie. Then I pulled Sweeie Belle out too. I didn't drop her, so after a few seconds she looked around eyes wide. I couldn't tell if she was more confused or worried. I then pulled off the huge ear protectors.

"What's going on, why is everything stopped?"

"I'm just that awesome squirt. Now if you can keep calm I need to get Scootaloo out."

She turned to look at Scootaloo. "She might not like that. She loves this thing." Sweetie Belle then shivered. It's so scary."

"She does look happy, but it's not safe. Now when I put you down you'll probably slow down again so don't freak okay?"

She nodded. "Okay. I don't understand at all, but I'll do anything if it will get me out of that thing."

I then put Sweetie Belle down and put the ear protectors back on. I zipped down, grabbed Applebloom, realizing even though it shouldn’t matter leaving the little filly falling down like that was a bad idea. She scratched her head with one hoof after she stopped screaming, or at least opening her mouth. And to think I took these just because I was worried about the noise from the power tools. I took them off again.

"What the hay is going on rainbow."

"As I said, I'm awesome. But it's complicated, and, well, I don't really get it entirely either, we're both going really fast right now, so everything else seems to have stopped."

"Oh. Uh, I'm pretty sure it isn't safe for Sweetie Belle to be on that thar wing."

"That's just temporary. I'm going to take all three of you to the ground. Now don't panic, but when I let go you're going to slow down again, so things will get weird."

"They already are weird."

I then put her down, put the protectors back on, pulled Scoots out, and she did indeed look very happy. I think she was screaming in joy not fear, but it still would have been loud. She briefly frowned, but then her eyes refocused on me and she smiled broadly. I smiled back.

"I don't know what's going on, but if you're here Rainbow Dash it must be awesome."

"It is, I just saved you three."

"Huh? From what?"

"From Blinkie's death trap of course."

"What's wrong with it, it's awesome."

"Well yea, kinda, but not for much longer."

I then pulled her close and flew around back. She just stared at the abused looking back of the aircraft. Then she suddenly hugged me.

"Thank you so much. I tried to read the manual, but it was so boring I didn't get all the way though. I messed up I bet."

"Actually Blinkie's stuff tends to explode somewhat at random. I haven't really known her that long, or that well, but it seems like that to me."

"Oh."

"If it was anyone else I'd question why she would give it to you, but she's completely wacko. Anyway, ready to go to the ground?"

"Uh, okay, I guess."

"Hmm, wait, I have a better idea, but I should take your friends down first."

Then I put her down, and ferried the other two down to the ground, one in each hoof, when they reached the ground they broke out of my grasp and hugged. This of course caused them to freeze in place. I then went back up and grabbed Scoots. I was already accelerating upward when she started moving.

"Huh, what's going on Rainbow Dash?"

"Your friends are already on the ground, and I think I can do something really awesome much easier, even while carrying you, so lets find out if I'm right together."

"Something awesome?"

She let out a high pitched squeal, and was probably about to ask me she had guessed right, but I spun around and dived at that moment. The rainboom, another real one, came only a few seconds later and everything started moving again, including the two fillies below us. I pulled level and sped forward. Cool, I fired out how to get everything moving normally again too. Then Scootaloo squealed again so loud I swear it rattled my skull.

"I know I'm awesome but that was way too loud."

"Sorry Rainbow Dash. It's just, sonic rainboom, with you holding me."

Then she squealed again. Maybe this wasn't such a great idea. I then realized I wasn't all that sure where I was. I knew what direction Ponyville was in, but not how far away it was. This could get annoying.

Scolding

I was thankful to that farmer that lent me the cart, and returning it was much faster, and coming back to Ponyville again was even faster. I love my new speed. I can get anywhere just like that. Twilight, Rarity, and Applejack were confronting Blinkie. They brought all three of the crusaders along with them. I laughed again when I saw Scoots. I was almost sure she still hadn't noticed thanks to that cape. Of course mostly I was standing there trying not to be bored out of my mind as they chewed out Blinkie. She just stood there, saying nothing, and blinking a great deal. Her name is nearly as obvious as Pinkie's. Though it was creepy when that was all she did for long stretches of time.

"…and you've terribly traumatized these three fillies."

"The orange one does not seem traumatized to me. Or am I wrong?"

"Wait, Rarity that sounded sincere and…" Began Twilight

"Ah reckon it did." Added Applejack

"I do not care. How can you be so irresponsible as to let children pilot some experimental aircraft? That is beyond irresponsible."

"They passed my safety tests, and the orange one was perfect on the simulator. She overstressed the current safe speed limit, but I clearly…"

"That doesn't matter you ignorant little…" Rarity then pulled up her nose and let out a snooty little huff. "Look at this, you have me so angry you have inspired me to vulgarity. Can you really not understand what you've done is wrong?"

"She can't ya know."

They all turned to me. Great, now I have to explain this. I rolled my eyes and walked over to Blinkie, putting one hoof over her shoulder.

"See, it's like this. Pinkie may be the queen of random and as weird as they get, but she's not actually crazy."

"Now Rainbow, really, you seem to have some insight but…"

"Well, maybe she is, but mostly she gets the universe and understands it. She knows what's going on, even if she doesn't react to the universe in a normal way."

"Ah guess that sorta makes a bit of sense."

"You have a point, though sane may not seem to be the right word to describe Pinkie it may be technically correct. But Blinkie…"

"Is crazy, right Blinks?"

She nodded. "Yes, I am quite mad, everyone says so. I don't see it, but that's the point." She laughed. "Logic dictates I follow the evidence, and that is overwhelming."

"So she literally doesn't understand why giving the crusaders a…" Rarity paused

"Jet." Said Blinkie

"I like that word. It's cool. By the way I noticed you guys didn't check for cutie marks."

All three went wide eyed at this. Sweetie Belle and Applebloom began shaking and only stopped when they checked. Then I quickly covered my ears as Scoots let out an ear shattering whoop. She had a black rocket with a trail of smoke behind it on her flank. It seems to me like it should have been a jet, but I don't really get what it means so maybe it somehow makes more sense.

"Oh thank Celestia, it's not there." said Sweetie Belle

"Ah was so worried that somehow somethin' about that would be my special talent. That woulda been just awful."

"Oh my." added Twilight

"Oh dear." Said Rarity

"Ah reckon that can't mean anything safe."

Then the two cutie mark crusaders turned to their friend who was now staring at her flank and shaking slightly with a huge smile on her face. Then they were suddenly all in a great big group hug.

"Cutie mark crusaders test pilots is a success."

Then came the supersonic squealing I heard even though my quicly repositioned hooves. I felt bad for all the earthbound ponies who had trouble covering their ears. The crusaders hopped and giggled in place for a good long while.

"Now girls…" began Twilight. "You do understand that just because one of you…"

"We already figured that out Twilight." Said Applebloom. "Ah realized it when Twist was feeling a bit left out. Though for some reason once we took her with us crusading she said she's okay being left out."

"I totally don't get why she was so upset. I mean it's just a little tree sap and few broken bones. I've hurt myself way worse." Added Scoots.

I laughed. "Oh, so great."

"So I figured that we should make a vow. That we'll be crusaders forever. Even after we get our marks. No mater who gets what when."

"This means we can do safe things for now on, can't we?"

"No way." said Scoots. "This means we gotta go more extreme. I pushed things to the limit in that thing and I did it. I totally get it now. When I was controlling that thing, that vehicle more than just me, almost like a scooter…"

"A flying metal scooter?" asked Sweetie Belle

"Hmmm." Said Rarity, leaning into to look more closely at Scootaloo's mark.

"I said almost. But it was then I knew this is what I really wanted to do. That's it. So we gotta push things more. If we're going to get your cutie marks we gotta try some really crazy things."

Twilight and AJ both face hoofed. That was when Rarity's horn lit up, and with a flash Scoots cutie mark vanished. Then Applebloom and Sweetie Bell gasped. Scootaloo spun around and I covered my ears again.

"It's gone."

Everypony else cringed.

Rarity sighed. "Sorry, but it was just some stray oil or some such. If you looked closely it was obvious it didn't have that certain clean vividness of a true cutie mark."

Scoots looked down and sighed. "Awwww, but I was so sure."

"It's okay Scootaloo. It just means we all gotta try that much harder."

"Yes, and you wouldn't really want to fly one of those things all the time, would you?"

Scoots turned to Sweetie Belle. "Of course I would. It was like super awesome. I mean it probably exploded or whatever but the next one won't."

"Most likely." Added Blinkie

"Now listen here, all a ya." Said Applejack

"Come on girls, I know I was close and now I have the best idea ever. Lets go."

"You did look really happy."

"Yea, ya must know what you're doing." Added Applebloom

"Cutie Mark Crusaders go."

And with a high hoof they were off. I think they forgot they were in trouble too, not just Blinkie, but Rarity and Applejack just stood there. I began to laugh once the crusaders were out of range. I thought taking action to get your cutie mark is one of the best ideas ever, but they had actually already found what they were good at, but refused to focus on it. Then I noticed Rarity and Applejack glaring at me.

"What, it's funny. Besides unless Blinkie gives them another jet or something similar, there won't be a problem."

"I'm sorry, I still don't get it. Look, how about you girls just act like a grant approval board, and oversee matters regarding them."

"What the hay does that mean?"

"It means she's going to ask you two if it's okay to give the crusaders something or not. Of course my guess is they will come looking for more stuff."

"For any other foals, just ask Cheerilee." Said Twilight. "During school hours would also add an extra layer of safety, making them wait."

Blinkie nodded. "Sure, there is always something else to work on."

"Cool. Okay, you can yell at Blinkie more if you want, but I'm gone. Later."

Then I took off. It was still strange how fast I could fly, but I was getting used to it, and it was awesome. Plus there was that whole time stop thing. Pinkie got shape shifting, and I got even faster. I wonder if this means everybody will get something. Then I laughed. Oh, Applejack is already crazy strong, isn't she? That just leaves Fluttershy and Rarity, and I guess Twilgiht. Though with the way she handled that ursa I can't think how she can get much more awesome.

Education

"I totally shouldn't have brought this up."

I then groaned. Twilight shook her head, and finished writing whatever it was she was writing. She then walked over to me and the pile of books I had collected from the library. Twilight added a bunch of books, didn't she? I'm a little surprised there were as many cool books as there were though. I figured it would all be magic junk and boring stuff. Though I guess most ponies would consider the book on top of my pile boring.

"Now Dash I…" Twilight suddenly stopped. "Is that the latest volume of collected issues of Mathmatica Equestria?

"Well yea. I mean I probably don't really have to but mom made me get a degree to fall back on so I better be sure I can."

"Are you saying so have some sort of degree in math?"

"Duh. I mean come on, sure the explanations for some stuff is way too long but you just plug the numbers in the formula and bang you're done."

"It's not that simple, there is also real world application and…"

"Yea, yea. I know Twi. That's not much harder. Seriously getting my doctorate wasn't that hard, but I do know all the…"

"What?"

I blinked. I thought Twilight was going to do her fire thing again, that was always fun, but she didn't. I scratched my head.

"Okay, what's the big deal?"

"Dash, I don't have my doctorate yet. It makes no sense. You're not that much older than me and I know you're a worse student."

"Once again, duh. But this is Cloudsdale we're talking about. I already told you about my memory, so it was easy to just speed though the classes."

"Memory?"

"Oh, I skipped that too didn't I? Unlike the reading thing, which I'd rather you not mention to anypony else by the way, I have a memory thing."

"Define thing?"

"It's easier to just show you. Well, at least more fun. Go pick any book in here, just make sure it isn't too boring." I then laughed. "Or about flying somehow, that wouldn’t really prove anything would it?"

Twilight wandered around a bit, clearly still confused. She came back with that book with the Dragonslayer stories that had no title, just that weird symbol impressed on the first page. I bet the symbol was on the cover too, but it had been burned nearly completely away. I was still not sure that was coincidence.

"Okay, now what?"

"Open it, pick a page and a paragraph."

Twilight used her magic to open the book and flip though it. "Page ten, paragraph 3. Dash what exactly…"

"Yet the beast was not slain. It gave a mighty flap of its wings and was instantly upright, standing on three legs. Then it took a deep breath and…"

"Omigosh dash, you have a Eidetic memory?"

"Uh, yea, that sounds about right. I prefer calling it awesome memory."

Twilight sighed. "Of course you do."

"I'll give you a moment to soak in a new level of awesome that is Dash. Don't worry, you aren't the first."

Twilight rolled her eyes and I smiled. Sometimes my ego really did get out of control, but most of the time I'm really just messing with AJ, and ever since she showed up, Twilight. Though I always have trouble of thinking of the many examples of just messing with them for some reason. I guess I do have to be paying some attention to remember anything, so that must be it.

"Dash, that still doesn't make sense. It takes time to…" Twilight blinked. "Wait, the Cloudsdale education system is different somehow, isn't it?"

I nodded. "Yea. It's about freedom. Unicorns are, well, uh…" I then decided to just say it. "Kinda uptight and stuff, all about rules."

"That's not entirely true, but I understand what you mean. But Dash could you really not think of a better way to put that?"

I shook my head. "Not really. The point is pegasi love freedom, so it's in our schools too. If you can prove you know what you need to, you get credit."

"Even with foals?"

"Yea, though you don't get as many chances to prove it, and they'll just skip you grades and stuff until you're done. So yea, passing a bunch of tests that just require you to memorize a bunch of junk is easy."

"That isn't all there is to it, I'm quite sure. Interpretation and…"

"I guess, but that's like nothing too, so who cares. The point is I'm awesome, and it was easy and fast. Math is something I can use in figuring out tricks, and it turns out I really like it, so I went all the way."

Twilight then went silent, not really focusing on anything for a while. Then she focused back on me and gently smiled. I blinked

"Huh?"

"Just realizing there is more to you than there appears Dash. In fact, I can't help but think there are things about all my friends that I don't know."

"Some stuff should stay hidden Twi."

"Maybe, but this has been a joy. You know, I'm jealous. I would love for your ability. So you really know every single word from every book in this library on flying, don't you? Plus a great deal of fiction."

"Yea. Even this really dull flying manual. It took me forever to get through it, but it did have one or two useful bits so it was worth it."

Twilight smiled again. "So, do you want my guess what that time stop ability was?"

"Uh, oh, I guess. Though it sounds like you don't know."

"It's a very odd state, and one I've never heard of before, but there are some qualities which are very clear. It's a spell."

"Wait, you mean like as in unicorns casting magic spells kind of spell?"

"Yes and no. As in, in terms of the word spell and what it means, but in no other way is it like unicorn magic. It's pegasai magic through and through, and while I don't know what that could mean I'm excited to find out."

I nodded. She was hopping up and down in an almost Pinkie like manner. Pinkie would hop higher and Twi was clearly restraining herself a little, something Pinkie never did, but otherwise it was very similar. I smiled.

"Yea, I can tell."

"Heh heh. Sorry."

"No worries. I'm not Rarity. I don't really care about all that proper behavior stuff. Are you sure about this?"

"Yes. While it was triggered and canceled via great speed I doubt that's needed."

I started and smiled really wide. "Wait, so I can just do it whenever?"

"With practice I believe so."

"And you can help me. Awesome."

"Well, no. I doubt that greatly. I'm not sure but I think I've discovered the casting methods of pegasai and earth ponies."

"Yea, it's all in the wings, you told me already."

"I suppose I did. Luna once she's available might be able to help."

"I still don't get this focus thing really. I mean it's not like my wings light up or anything, do they?"

"Hmmm." Twilight put a hoof to her chin. "They might actually." Then she put her hoof down and shook her head. "But that's missing the point."

"So a focus is the thing you channel magic through when you just think really hard to make it happen."

"It's far more complicated than that. The particulars aren't worth repeating for several reasons, but the idea might not be."

"Whu?"

"The hardest part of a spell is often learning it. But once you know it casting is usually a simple matter of remembering the, for lack of a better term pattern."

"You mean like with glowy lights and stuff. I'm pretty sure unicorns and pegasai don't see the world the same way so…"

Twilgiht shook her head. "That is true to a point, but while it is easier for us to read auras, it is far from automatic. It also is not strictly necessary for a spell. You simply know what to do once you're learned it."

"By instinct?"

Twilight nodded. "That's at least roughly right. But most important for you to know is I don't think study and focus can help you with anything you can cast."

"Good."

"I think pegasi magic is more a function of emotion but I have no conclusive evidence that…"

I let out a whoop. I had it. I understood why the rainboom was sometimes just a mini boom, why I suddenly did something so awesome for the first time right when I needed it, and how I bet I can do more awesome stuff too.

"Dash, what is it?"

"You are totally right Twi. I know you are. All of it, everything, it just fits. I also did all of it while flying. While flying. Which is for sure moving my wings."

I then did a little loop de loop and flew gently around the library. Twilight first looked at some book for some reason, then back at me.

"You didn't move the book."

"Duh, I wasn't near it."

"I mean you didn't disturb the air enough to turn a page. That is very interesting."

I stopped circling. "Wait, does this mean I can float stuff."

"No Dash you…" Twi blinked "Actually, that may be possible, pegasai are tied to the air, though most likely it would be more difficult."

"Uh, why?"

"How much advanced magic theory are you willing to listen to?"

"I'm guessing not much. So that's a maybe?"

"Yes, though it normally doesn't matter the cutie mark limit may come into play. I can't say for sure though. I mean there is some magic common to all unicorns, but I imagine that pegasai have a completely different set."

"Though obviously working with weather, walking on clouds, and flying are part of that."

"Or all of it. It's hard to say. There really is very little research so…"

"You don't know, I get it. So earth ponies are sorta the same way?"

"Yes, I think their universal talents are for strength and endurance, and maybe something involving plants, but earth pony magic is terribly subtle."

"So about this cutie mark limit thing. What does it mean exactly?"

"Well, I'm a bad example but…" Twilight then smiled "Rarity. Yes, I'm trying to teach her all sorts of spells, but her special talent is fashion so I don't really know all that many spells that directly relate."

I laughed. "I'm surprised you know any."

"Well she had an easy time with a spell that repaired tears in fabric, and a polishing spell, and the beard and mustache spell."

"Cause they're fashionable?"

"I guess. The limits of what spells a pony can learn easily relating to their talent is unclear, and it doesn't make other spells impossible, just exceedingly difficult."

"So I got a spell involving speed. I get it. So if I get anything else, it will be similarly awesome. So cool."

"I'm just guessing. Still, it seems likely."

Then a horrible thought suddenly struck me and my wings sized up, and I fell to the ground. I'd seen Fluttershy stall out plenty of times but I don't think I had ever done it before. Still, I didn't feel remotely bad about it considering the frightening thought that just entered my head.

"This means Pinkie might get more magic too, doesn't it."

Twi cringed "Yes, and even worse I know virtually nothing about mer-mares so her magic could be literally anything."

Then I blinked and laughed. "No it can't." I let out a breath I didn't realize I was holding. "It will all be party stuff. I mean she can already pull party poppers form nowhere so…"

We both looked at each, probably thinking the same thing. Some strange magic would explain so much. Twilight then shook her head and sighed.

"Unfortunately it is likely the mystery that is Pinkie Pie isn't that simple. Still, it's an interesting thought."

"Though also terrifying."

"In way. I thought that you were good friends now."

"We are but, well…"

Twilight smiled slightly and nodded. I then looked at the pile of books I had collected and realized something.

"I totally need a cart, don't I?"

"It would appear so. Do you really plan to read them all now?"

"I guess not. I usually only read at night to fall asleep. I'll be right back with my saddlebags and grab just a few of them."

I then was out the door, and flying though the sky. Yea, Pinkie with power is scary, but even that will be interesting. To think I used to think Ponyville could be boring sometimes. Twilight really seemed to have livened up this place somehow.

The impossible

I got though my apology this time. Fluttershy's hat earlier was a little odd, but totally her. This was a giant white ten gallon hat I got Fluttershy as a joke from Appleoosa once we fixed that mess with the buffalo. I wasn't surprised she kept it, she was sentimental like that, but I never thought she'd actually wear it. She had the phoenix feather in the headband. I guess she really liked that feather, but why is she wearing it everywhere now. I mean she's hiding something under the hat obviously enough, but what the heck is up with the feather. We were both sitting on a cloud just enjoying the night air.

"So, why did you want somewhere to talk anyway?"

"Well, Rarity told me about, well…"

I looked away. "It's really no big deal Flutter. I mean it's way far off and like I told Rarity, it's not like it isn't open ended. I mean I can always…"

"But if you wait you might never…"

I sighed, and looked up at the sky. "I don't think it's my destiny, ya know? I mean I am the best and will only get better, and the Wonderbolts are my idols but…"

Then I was crying. It was so stupid. It was my dream but I had other dreams now. Other things more important than joining a team that would take me away from my friends and Ponyville for most of the year. Even though if the way Luna was talking we all might end up having to go fight some evil far away anyway. I turned away and looked over the side of the cloud. Like always Fluttershy stayed as far away from the edges as she could manage. Every so often I felt guilty about that particular fear of hers. It was about the only one I thought I knew the origin of.

"I'm sorry. I don't know what to say. I want to say something but, but I'm happy too. I'm happy you're not leaving. That you'll still be here. I'm sorry, but it's how I feel."

I laughed. "Oh come on. How can I blame you for wanting to keep the Dash around? I mean I'm really awesome, who wouldn't want me around?"

"Thank you." Then she didn't say anything for a while, which was soon broken by a long drawn out quiet sigh. "But I can't let you do it."

"Huh?"

I turned to see Fluttershy with an intense look in her eyes. It wasn't quite the stare, but determined Fluttershy is almost as rare. I blinked.

"Rainbow Dash. I can't let you do it, and I'm sure the rest of our friends feel the same way. I'm sure Rarity feels the same way even if she didn't say anything to you."

"She just sorta dropped the subject entirely. I guess she decided it would be better coming from you."

"She didn’t tell me to do this. I am telling you because…"

"I didn't say that, but I bet you're still doing what she wants. Rarity can be like that sometimes. It's annoying."

Fluttershy looked down "Oh, I'm sorry I didn’t mean…" Then she shook her head and looked me in the eyes again. "No, that doesn’t matter. You have to follow your dream. You can't let us hold you back. You can't let this opportunity pass."

"I can and probably will. It was just a silly filly dream anyway."

I was crying again, and Fluttershy was hugging me. She had come to edge of the cloud to do so. This is why I hate over thinking things. You should make a decision and do it. Don't keep thinking about whether or not what you did was right or wrong, only what comes next. I guess I could at least go through the full training. Become a full fledged Wonderbolt, even if I never perform with them.

"Yea, that sounds good. That way I would have still won. I didn't quit until I made it, but once I do on to other things. Yea, that could work."

"Do, do you mean you will…"

"Become a full Wonderbolt then quit? Yea. Maybe you guys can even visit while I'm training? I mean Pinkie can fly now, and Twilight can always cast the cloud walking spell on everypony so even though it's far you could get there with the balloon."

"Wait, but after you made it…"

"Maybe I could do one show, or even a show every time they're nearby." I then laughed. "Of course for me Manehatten is nearby now."

"Uh, I don't mean to…" Fluttershy then took a breath. "I mean if that's true, and you keep getting faster, and there isn't too much time they need you there before performance and if…"

I stood up and went wide eyed. Fluttershy kept talking but her voice was going lower and I couldn't focus enough to make her out. I then laughed out loud.

"Hah. I should have thought of that. Of course that's the solution. I'm the fastest flier in Equestria. The solution is obvious. I just have to figure out how to go even faster. So fast I can stay here and still tour with them."

"That sounds, exhausting."

I waved a hoof with a quick flick. "Eh, so what. That so doesn't matter. I'm Rainbow Dash, master of the sonic rainboom fastest pony alive. I can totally do this."

I then let out a whoop and jumped into the air. I just flew around randomly. Loop de loops, spins, anything that came to mind. I could have it all, and to get it all I had to do was keep pushing myself. Get faster, try to figure out the time stop trick, build up my endurance even more.

I then yelled as loud as I could. "Hah, take that universe, not even you can beat me."

Fluttershy cringed on the cloud a little, but I don't get why. I could do this. Nothing was going to stop me from being there for my friends and achieving my dream, at the same time. This is going to be so awesome.