Happy Death Day, Rainbow Dash!by ArcadePonyFubukiChaptersWake UpBreak DownFreak OutWhat’s LeftAll’s RightWake UpRING RING RING Rainbow Dash groggily opened her eyes and lifted her head. Reaching her hoof over, she pressed down on the blaring alarm clock. “Uggh, does it have to be morning yet?” Rainbow asked the universe. “Of course it does!” A suddenly appearing Pinkie Pie responded. “AAAHH!” Rainbow yelped as she tumbled out of her bed. “If it wasn’t morning, it couldn’t be your BIRTHDAY!” Pinkie informed. “Pinkie Pie! What are you doing in my room?! How’d you even get up to my house!?” Rainbow rightfully questioned. “I didn’t wanna miss the chance to be the first person to tell you happy birthday!” Pinkie told her. “That doesn’t answer either of my questions but I suppose I didn’t really expect you to.” Rainbow admitted in acceptance. “Oh! Speaking of, HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!” Pinkie exclaimed as she rolled out the party cannon. The cannon fired off its confetti into the room, covering it in decor fit for a party. “Uhh, thanks Pinkie, I appreciate it.” Rainbow half-lied. “But I have to run off to Wonderbolts practice now, so I’ll see ya later, ok?” “Okie-Dokie-Lokie! Have fun Dashie!” Pinkie waved as she let out some air from the balloons helping her float, which Rainbow Dash somehow failed to notice until now. “Alright, I will just for you!” Rainbow snickered as she fixed her mane and headed out the door. As Rainbow stepped out the door and made her way towards the Wonderbolts Academy, she noticed a mare walking by waving happily. “Hiya Rainbow Dash!” “Heya Derpy.” Rainbow responded with a slight wave. As Rainbow walked past she suddenly heard a metal banging noise, as she turned back she saw Derpy rubbing her forehead while looking at a lamppost. “Sorry about that Mr. Night Light, won’t happen again.” Derpy apologized to the post. Rainbow rolled her eyes and turned back down her path. ‘One of these days that mare’s gonna get someone seriously hurt, and if she’s lucky it’ll only be herself.’ Rainbow continued her walk before having her vision suddenly obscured. “TWENTY HORSES ON THE MOON CONCERT TONIGHT AT THE CLOUD DROP CAFE! BE THERE OR BE SQUARE!” A mare with a flashy mane and purposefully torn clothing announced while waving around flyers. Rainbow politely moved the flyer away from her face and gave the abrasive mare a passive-aggressive smile. ‘A rock band at the quietest cafe in Equestria, I’m sure that’s gonna go well.’ As Rainbow’s trek continued, she noticed more innocuous happenings around her. A rain cloud suddenly pouring on a couple across the street, an oven going off in a house as she walked by, a stallion practicing sit ups behind a diner of all places. ‘Sure is an interesting day in Cloudsdale.’ “Hey! Rainbow!” Rainbow blinked as she exited her thoughts and saw Soarin waving her down. “Hey Soarin! How’s it going?” Rainbow asked him with a grin. “Going good, just heading to the academy, same as you I assume?” Soarin responds. “You know it, I’m ready to get my flying on!” Rainbow excitedly confirms. “Well if you’re so ready, how about you race me there?” Soarin proposes. “Oh you are on, get ready to eat my-“ “321GO!” Soarin rushes as he speeds off. “Wha- bu- yo- HEY!” Rainbow fumbles as she winds up her wings and takes off. As Rainbow flies towards the ever closer academy, she sees Soarin at the front doors, smugly waiting for her arrival. “What took you so long, birthday mare?” Soarin asks rhetorically. “Y’know, it’s not a proper win if you che- wait what’d you call me?” Rainbow asks, taken aback. “They have everyone’s birthdays on file at the academy, couldn’t hide it from me if you tried.” Soarin explained. Rainbow grew a blush. “Aw jeez, can you not tell anyone else? I’d rather not with all that right now, it’s bad enough with Pinkie.” Rainbow pleaded. “Oh boy, you are not gonna like what’s coming next newbie.” Soarin said as he entered the academy. As Rainbow followed him in there was a sudden pop near her ear as confetti filled her vision for the second time that day. “Happy birthday newbie!” Spitfire exclaimed as she pulled Rainbow into a noogie. Rainbow pulled herself out and looked around to see her fellow trainees holding a banner adorned with ‘Happy Birthday Rainbow!’. “Oh, oh y-you guys shouldn’t have!” Rainbow appreciated through a weak smile. “Anything for my favorite rookie.” Spitfire said as she put a hoof around Rainbow’s shoulder. “No offense you guys.” “None taken.” Says Blaze. “You’re good.” Assures Surprise. “A little taken.” Frowns Mane Moon. “This is all really great guys, but don’t you think we should be starting practice now?” Rainbow asks. “You’re right, you’re right, but you can’t go flying on an empty stomach right? How about a little cake first, Blossomforth made it herself.” Says Spitfire. Blossomforth blushed as she sheepishly presented a cupcake she made. “I hope you like it. I asked Pinkie Pie what your favorite flavor was and she was kind enough to help me bake it.” Rainbow stepped forward and awed at the confection. An angle food cupcake with strawberry icing. “Wow Blossomforth… this is awesome!” Rainbow praised. “Oh, uh, t-thank you.” Blossomforth smiled, rubbing one hoof with the other. “You don’t have to eat it right now if you don’t want to.” “I’ll have to safe this for later, thanks again Blossomforth!” Rainbow said she pulled Blossomforth into a hug. Rainbow gently placed the cupcake into her locker and followed everyone to the training grounds. _______________________________________________ “Alright good work out there everyone good work!” Spitfire shouted. “Cloud Chaser you were a little wonky but otherwise good work everyone!” “Quite the workout today, huh?” Soaring said, bumping Rainbow with his shoulder. “You can say that again, and I still have a party I gotta go to with my friends down in Ponyville.” Rainbow replied. “Well now why do they get to celebrate with you but we don’t?” Soarin asked with an unserious smile. “Trust me I’d keep it away from them if I could, but I swear Pinkie knew my birthday before I did.” Rainbow scoffed while glancing at a clock on the wall. “Oh shoot I gotta be there in 30 minutes! I’ll see you guys later and thanks again Blossomforth!” Rainbow said while rushing through her locker and out the door. “You’re welcome!” Blossomforth called out, hoping Rainbow was still in ear shot. _______________________________________________ As the sun made its exit and introduced the moon, the mane 6, sans Rainbow Dash, waited in anticipation for the arrival of the birthday mare. “Ooooo I hope she didn’t forget!” Pinkie said worriedly. “Calm down now, I doubt Rainbow would forget her own birthday.” Applejack reassured her. “I forgot mine once.” Fluttershy spoke up. “Well now how did you manage that?” Rarity inquired. “I heard these really scary footsteps outside my bedroom, and I was too frightened to see who it was, so I ended up locking myself in my room for 3 days. Little did I know the second day was my birthday, and the footsteps ended up just being my spider friend Carl walking across a creaky floorboard.” Fluttershy explained with a smile. As the girls looked at Fluttershy with baffled puzzlement, Rainbow Dash finally arrived at Sugarcube Corner. “Dashie! You’re finally here you’re finally here!” Pinkie bounced with excitement. “Yep, just in the nick of time.” Rainbow said, slightly panting. ‘You have no idea’ Rarity said under her breath. “Now who’s ready for PRESENTS!!!” Pinkie announced. “Don’t have to ask me twice.” Rainbow joked, taking a seat as Twilight Sparkle approached her. “Happy birthday Rainbow Dash!” Twilight greeted as she floated over a wrapped gift. “No way!” Rainbow gasped as she unwrapped the gift. ”Daring Do and The Last Living Gold Keeper?! This isn’t out for another week! How’d you pull this off?” “Hehe, let’s just say I put a good word in with an author pal of ours.” Twilight beamed proudly. “Thanks a ton Twilight!” Rainbow said as she pulled into a hug. “Gonna be mighty hard to top that one I reckon” Applejack chuckled to herself as she placed a box on the table in front of Rainbow. “Wow, is this a custom horseshoe?” Rainbow asked excitedly, taking the lid off the box. “Yes siree, you’re always talking ‘bout how ya can’t tell our horseshoes apart when we’re playing toss, so I got’ya one with ya own name on it.” Applejack confirmed. “Nice! That is awesome Applejack!” Rainbow exclaimed. “Oh, I suppose I’m next.” Fluttershy said, presenting her gift. “Oooo nice one Flutters! New wax for Tank’s shell, he was about to run out.” Rainbow said, applauding Fluttershy. “You’re welcome..” Fluttershy responded, blushing with a small smile. “Oh I do hope you enjoy this darling.” Rarity said as she hovered a gift bag onto the table. “Oh, a uh, a manebrush. Th-thanks Rarity.” Rainbow fake smiled. “Oh no no no darling, it’s a special brush for pegasus wings. I had it imported all the way from Fillydelphia.” Rarity explained. Rainbow took the brush and stroked it across her wing. “Oh wow, that feels nice. You’re on to something with this one Rarity.” Rainbow said, soothed. “Oh well you know, it’s kinda my thing.” Rarity said with a small laugh. “Oh! Oh! My turn! My turn!” Pinkie said, jumping up and down. Pinkie placed a ginormous box on the table, obscuring Rainbow Dash’s view beyond it. Rainbow hovered to the top of the box and lifted the massive flaps concealing it. Suddenly, all four sides of box fell back, revealing a spiraling tower of desserts in a rainbow pattern. Rainbow Dash landed and stepped back in awe. “Yes! I knew you’d like it!” Pinkie said ecstatic. “P-Pinkie I… this is just..” Rainbow fell to her haunches, speechless. “Each pastry is ordered by your list of favorite desserts! All the way from number one to number two hundred and forty.” Pinkie said proudly. “You’ve really outdone yourself this time Pinkie.” Rainbow said with wonder in her voice. “Aw shucks, you’re welcome Dashie!” Pinkie said with a hug. “Now, do you think you have enough balloons to get this to Cloudsdale?” Rainbow asked. “Oh sweet, naive, Dashie, I always have enough balloons.” Pinkie responded with a smirk. As Pinkie went into her party lair underneath Sugarcube Corner, the rest of the girls said their farewells. “That was one hootenanny of a party, but I’m plumb tuckered out.” Applejack yawned. “I’ll see you girls tomorrow, and happy birthday Rainbow!” Applejack said while exiting. “I’m sure Spike is getting more impatient as we speak.” Twilight giggled. “Goodnight girls, I’ll see you all tomorrow.” “A lady does need her beauty rest, I shall see you all in the morning.” Rarity exited. “I should probably check on Angel, he gets cranky when I’m out late.” Said Fluttershy. “Alright, I’ll see ya all later.” Rainbow said as she followed Fluttershy out the door. “I still need to wait here for Pinkie, but you have a goodnight.” Rainbow said, Fluttershy turned and nodded before lifting off to her cabin. As Rainbow sat out front Sugarcube Corner, she heard the faint sound of music around the corner. Her ears perked up, and she slowly sat up and followed the noise to the back of Sugarcube Corner. When she finally located the source, all that sat there was a small music box playing a soft rendition of ‘Happy Birthday’. “Heh, alright Pinkie, party’s over.” Rainbow said. As Rainbow received nothing but silence in response she grew more tense. Stepping closer to the music box, she reached her hoof out to pick it up before quickly retracting it as the sound of a crunching twig snapped through the air. Rainbow shot her head back and saw a pony standing just eight feet away from her, wearing a full black bodysuit and a mask resembling a baby colt. Rainbow couldn’t make out any identifying features on the figure, she wasn’t sure if they were a mare or stallion, a unicorn, a pegasus, an earth pony. Nothing. All she knew was that they were staring her down like a wolf. “Cool.. c-costume Pinkie…” Rainbow muttered. “But uhh.. I should be heading home now, heh, gotta be up early y’know?” The pony continued to stare in silence. “Oh! You’re not Pinkie, silly me, thought you were somepony else hehe.. so.. can I help you?” Rainbow asked, playing it cool. The pony continued to stare in silence. Rainbow was getting fed up. “Alright bud, if you’re just here to creep me out, it’s not working. So why don’t you run off and bother somepony else before things get ugly.” Rainbow threatened. The pony walked off silently. “what a creep…” Rainbow sighed. Rainbow started to make her way back to the front of Sugarcube Corner before the music box suddenly played again. She turned her head in the music’s direction before she heard a shift on the roof of Sugarcube Corner and saw the masked pony dropped down from above, brandishing a knife. Rainbow was able to quickly push the attacker back, not without receiving a small cut along her left wing. Rainbow fled the scene as quickly as possible. When she found herself a good distance away from Sugarcube Corner without the attempted murderer in sight, she extended her wings and attempted to return home. But upon the first flap of her wings she found her left one retract with a searing pain, sending her crashing into the dirt below. Rainbow Dash raised her head and quickly checked her surrounding, finding nopony around her. She was going to release a sigh of relief when she suddenly felt her mane be jerked back. Looking up, she met the gaze of the colt mask and a knife being raised above her. With a final scream, all things went to black. Author's Note Woah! My first fan fic! Terrifying! This was originally gonna be my own interpretation of ‘Cupcakes’ mixed with ‘Happy Death Day’ (good movies go watch them) but I decided against that and decided to go with something more original (as original as this can be) Break DownRING RING RING Rainbow Dash’s eyes snapped open. She slowly sat up and took in her surroundings. Her bedroom, same as it ever was. “A-am I alive?” Rainbow asked the universe. “Of course you are!” A suddenly appearing Pinkie Pie responded. “AAAHH!” Rainbow yelped as she tumbled out of her bed. “If you weren’t alive, it couldn’t be your BIRTHDAY!” Pinkie informed. “Pinkie Pie?! How’d I get back to my room?! Did you fight off that psycho!?” Rainbow rightfully questioned. “Uhh… nooooo?” Pinkie responded in confusion. “Dashie, were you having a nightmare?” Rainbow wasn’t sure how to respond, everything from the day before had felt as real as every other day. But she couldn’t deny the fact that she, supposedly, died yesterday and yet was now back in her bedroom. “I uh.. I guess I was..” Rainbow conceded. “Sorry about that.” “No need to apologize Dashie. Besides, now that you’re awake we can get your BIRTHDAY STARTED!!” Pinkie exclaimed as she rolled out the party cannon. The cannon fired off its confetti into the room, covering it in decor fit for a party. Rainbow was stunned, everything was playing out just as she remembered in her “nightmare”. “Hey Pinkie, why are you up here anyway?” Rainbow asked. “Oh! I didn’t wanna miss the chance to be the first person to tell you happy birthday!” Pinkie told her. Rainbow Dash was terrified by her response. Was her dream a vision of the future? Was the universe trying to tell her something? Is this the most elaborate coincidence in history? Whatever was going on, Rainbow felt the need to get to the bottom of it. “T-thanks Pinkie, but I have to get to Wonderbolts practice now, so I’ll uh.. s-see you later.” Rainbow trembled. “Okie-Dokie-Lokie! Have fun Dashie!” Pinkie waved as she let out some air from the balloons helping her float, which Rainbow Dash made a point of noticing. “Yeah.. I will.” Rainbow said blankly as she was grappling with her situation. As Rainbow stepped out the door and made her way towards the Wonderbolts Academy, a mare walked by waving happily. “Hiya Rainbow Dash!” Rainbow failed to notice her as she was in deep concentration trying to make sense of everything. “Rainbow Dash?” “Huh? Oh uh, hey there Derpy..” Rainbow said, attempting to greet her. “Are you doing alright Rainbow Dash? You don’t seem so hot.” Derpy asked, worried for her friend. “Yeah, yeah I’m alright. Maybe a little headache but uhh.. fine.. otherwise.” Rainbow answered. “Alrighty then, have a good day!” Derpy walked off. “You too Derpy.” Rainbow said walking by. As Rainbow walked past she suddenly heard a metal banging noise, as she turned back she saw Derpy rubbing her forehead while looking at a lamppost. “Sorry about that Mr. Night Light, won’t happen again.” Derpy apologized to the post. ’did she just.. no, no, it’s just a coincidence. It’s Derpy! She always does that! I’m sure she’s walked into that post 100 times.’ Even as Rainbow tried to brush it off she couldn’t deny the eerie similarities. Rainbow continued her walk before having vision suddenly obscured. “TWENTY HORSES ON THE MOON CONCERT TONIGHT AT THE CLOUD DROP CAFE! BE THERE OR BE SQUARE!” A mare with a flashy mane and purposefully torn clothing announced while waving around flyers. Rainbow Dash was finding this all harder and harder to ignore. ’must be an encore performance… for the one.. in my dream..’ Rainbow moved the flyer out of her vision without so much as a glance in the advertiser’s direction. As Rainbow’s trek continued, she noticed more familiar happenings around her. The rain cloud suddenly pouring on a couple across the street, the oven going off in a house as she walked by, the stallion practicing sit ups behind a diner of all places. ’Just a typical Cloudsdale day…’ “Hey! Rainbow!” Rainbow blinked as she exited her thoughts and saw Soarin waving her down. “Oh, hey there Soarin.” Rainbow greeted. “So, how’s it going newbie?” Soarin asked her with a grin. “It’s… it’s going.” Rainbow responds. “How are you doing?” “I’m doing good, just heading to the academy, same as you I assume?” Soarin responds. “Y-you got that right.” Rainbow says, attempting to get the day back to normal. “I’m ready to get my flying on!” “Well if you’re so ready, how about you race me there?” Soarin proposes. “If you say so, get ready to eat my-“ “321GO!” Soarin rushes as he speeds off. “Dammit how’d he get me twice with that!?” Rainbow fumbles as she winds up her wings in an attempted take off. But as Rainbow lifted herself up her left wing suddenly retracted with a familiar stinging. Rainbow suddenly found herself face first in the clouds below. “What taking you so long, birthday mare?” Soarin asks rhetorically. He looks back and sees Rainbow holding a hoof over her wing, taking breaths through gritted teeth. He immediately drops the race and flies back down to her. “Woah, are you doing alright Rainbow Dash?” Soarin asks with concern. “I thought I was, but my left wing totally bailed on me. Do you see anything wrong with it?” Rainbow answers. Rainbow extended her left wing, twitching back a bit once reaching full extension. “Oh man, looks like you have a nasty little cut along here.” Soarin pointed out, hovering one of his hood along her wing. “Ah damn, how’d that happen?” Rainbow asked herself. “Do you want me to tell Spitfire you won’t be coming in today? You know how she is with unexplained absences.” Soarin asks. “Ugh, I guess.” Rainbow said in frustration. “Oh but wait, they have a surprise for my birthday over there, I’d hate for all that to go to waste.” “Uhh, yeah, they do.. how’d you know?” Soarin questioned. “They have everybody’s birthday on file, remember? You’re the one that told me about it.” Rainbow explains. “I did? I don’t remember doing that..” Soarin responded. “I hate asking this but, do you think you can help me get there?” Rainbow asked Soarin. “Sure thing Dash, just hop on and I’ll carry you there.” Soarin offered. “Ugh.. how embarrassing.” Rainbow groaned. “Aww, did someone’s ego get hurt?” Soarin joked. “Pfft shut up.” Rainbow said with a laugh. As Rainbow and Soarin flew towards the ever closer academy they saw Spitfire at the front doors, impatiently waiting their arrival. “Now where have you two been?” Spitfire asked accusingly. “Sorry captain, Rainbow here got a nasty cut on her wing and needed assistance.” Soarin explained firmly. “Hmm, you get a pass this time. Now show me this cut of yours.” Spitfire ordered. Rainbow extended her left wing, making sure to not extend to its full span. “Ouch, that’s not good. Alright, I’m writing you to the nurse’s office immediately.” Said Spitfire. “But what about all the birthday party stuff in there?” Rainbow asked. “Oh shoot!” Spitfire exclaimed, putting a hood against her forehead. “Alright, we’ll have to rush through it but I guess there’s no avoiding it.” Spitfire opened the front doors allowing Rainbow and Soarin to enter, As they followed Spitfire in there was a sudden pop near their ears as confetti filled Rainbow’s vision for the second time that day and Soarin’s for the first time that day. Rainbow waved the confetti away and looked around to see her fellow trainees holding a banner adorned with ‘Happy Birthday Rainbow!’ “Do you like it?” Soarin asked her. “Oh, uh, yeah, of course. Thank you guys so much.” Rainbow said through a weak smile. “Oh well, y’know, anything for my favorite rookie.” Spitfire said as she put a hoof around Rainbow’s shoulder. “No offense you guys.” “None taken.” Says Blaze. “You’re good.” Assures Surprise. “A little taken.” Frowns Mane Moon. “Sorry to cut this party short but Rainbow Dash needs immediate medical assistance. So go get to practice people! Soarin will be in charge while I’m gone.” Spitfire commanded. “Wait! Wait!” A small voice in the crowd called out. Blossomforth stepped forth and presented a cupcake to Rainbow Dash. “I uh, made this for you, Rainbow Dash.” “Oh nice! Is this an angle food cupcake with strawberry icing?” Rainbow asked enthusiastically. “How’d you know that was my favorite?” “Oh, well, I did have a little help from Pinkie Pie down in Ponyville.” Blossomforth admitted. “You don’t have to eat it now if you don’t want to.” “I’ll have to save this for later, thanks again Blossomforth!” Rainbow said as she pulled Blossomforth into a hug. Rainbow gently placed the cupcake into her locker and followed Spitfire to the nurse’s office. _______________________________________________ “Alright, nurse says if you keep that bandage on you should be healed in about 3 days. Of course you realize this means no excessive flying and no attending practice, I gave you a pass today because it’s your birthday and all but I am not, in good faith, allowed to let you attend in the future. Is all that clear?” Spitfire explained. “Yeah yeah I get it, what a bum deal.” Rainbow groaned. “Look kid I’m not looking forward to not having my best flier around but this for your own good. Now head on home and get some rest.” Spitfire consoled. As Rainbow headed for the door she sneaked a glance at the clock on the wall. “Oh shoot I gotta be at Sugarcube Corner in 30 minutes! Hey sorry I gotta ask this but do you think you can fly me down to Ponyville?” Rainbow asked Spitfire. “Sure thing kid, but this means you owe me one now.” Spitfire snickered. Rainbow followed Spitfire to the front of the academy and rushed through her locker and out the door. “Thanks again Blossomforth!” “You’re welcome!” Blossomforth called out, hoping Rainbow was still in ear shot. _______________________________________________ As the sun made its exit and introduced the moon, the mane 6, sans Rainbow Dash, waited in anticipation for the arrival of the birthday mare. “Ooooo I hope she didn’t forget!” Pinkie said worriedly. “Calm down now, I doubt Rainbow would forget her own birthday.” Applejack reassured her. “I forgot mine once.” Fluttershy spoke up. “Well now how did you manage that?” Rarity inquired. “I heard these really scary footsteps outside my bedroom, and I was too frightened to see who it was, so I ended up locking myself in my room for 3 days. Little did I know th-“ “I’M HERE! I’m here don’t worry!” Rainbow called out as she finally arrived at Sugarcube Corner. “Dashie! You’re finally here you’re finally here!” Pinkie bounced with excitement. “Yep, just in the.. nick of time..” Rainbow said. ‘You have no idea’ Rarity said under her breath. “Now who’s ready for PRESENTS!!!” Pinkie announced. Rainbow silently sat at a table as Twilight walked towards her. “Happy birthday Rainbow Dash!” Twilight greeted as she floated over a wrapped gift “Oh woah!” Rainbow gasped as she unwrapped the gift. “Daring Do and The Last Living Gold Keeper! You know what’s so funny? I totally had a dream last night that you got me this.” “Oh wow! That’s quite the coincidence.” Twilight said with a giggle. “Thanks a ton Twilight!” Rainbow said as she pulled into a hug. “Let’s hope your dream didn’t spoil what I got’ya.” Applejack chuckled to herself as she placed a box on the table in front of Rainbow. “Oh huh, a custom horseshoe..” Rainbow said, taking the lid off the box. “Man, I am having the craziest deja vu right now.” “Uh, yeah, well, you’re always talking ‘bout how ya can’t tell our horseshoes apart when we’re playing toss, so I got’ya one with ya own name on it.” Applejack explained. “Thanks Applejack. This is.. awesome.” Rainbow said, still pondering as she turned the horseshoe over in her hoof. “Oh, I suppose I’m next.” Fluttershy said presenting her gift. “Oh, nice Flutters. Tank was.. just about to run out of wax.. for his shell.” Rainbow said, somewhat distracted. “I-is something wrong?” Fluttershy asked. “Huh? Oh, no no it’s just.. could’ve sworn you gave me this yesterday but I uh… must be mistaken.” Rainbow reassured. “Oh.. well i-if you say so.” Fluttershy responded, not fully convinced. “Oh well I do so hope you enjoy this darling.” Rarity said as she hovered a gift bag onto the table. “Oh hey! Is this one of those wingbrushes from Fillydelphia?” Rainbow asked. “W-why yes it is, actually, h-how did you know?” Rarity asked in surprise. “It’s funny, you brought them up.. in my dream.. last night.” Rainbow answered, falling back into thought. “Oh! Oh! My turn! My turn!” Pinkie said, jumping up and down. Pinkie placed a ginormous box on the table, obscuring Rainbow Dash’s view beyond it. Rainbow anxiously pulled one of the long ribbons draping over the top of the box which lifted the massive flaps concealing it. As she expected, all four sides of box fell back, revealing a spiraling tower of desserts in a rainbow pattern. Rainbow Dash landed and stepped back in awe. “Yes! I knew you’d like it!” Pinkie said ecstatic. “You’re all messing with me right?” Rainbow asked. Pinkie stopped hopping in place and turned her head in confusion “Huh? What do you mean?” Pinkie asked. “All this, heck my whole day, it’s been almost identical to my dream last night. Did you guys ask Princess Luna to help on this? Y’know, go into my head to find out what I wanted. I appreciate the effort but you could’ve just asked.” Rainbow said with a small laugh. “Uhhh, we didn’t ask Princess Luna about anything. Are you doing alright?” Twilight asked. “Yeah, you’ve been a little out of it this whole time.” Applejack added. “I’m fine, I think, I’m pretty sure. I guess it’s just eerie how, familiar, all this is.” Rainbow reassured. “Whatever, it’s fine, I’m fine. It’s been great you guys, thanks for all of this.” “You’re welcome!” Pinkie beamed. “Oh! I gotta get balloons to get your cupcake tower back to Cloudsdale!” “No wait Pinkie I’m stay- she’s gone..” Rainbow failed to communicate. As Pinkie went into her party lair underneath Sugarcube Corner, the rest of the girls said their farewells. “Well, if you say you’re alright then I suppose you’re alright, but don’t be afraid to come to any of us for help ya hear?” Applejack said while exiting. “I’ll see if I can find anything about dreams predicting future events in one of my books.” Twilight said. “I shall see you all in the morning, I do hope you have a good rest Rainbow.” Rarity exited. Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy followed Rarity out the door. “I’ll see you all tomorrow!” Rainbow called out. “I should probably check on Angel, he gets cranky when I’m out late.” Said Fluttershy. “Oh hey, Flutters wait up.” Rainbow stopped Fluttershy before she could fly off. “I’ve been meaning to ask but, can I stay at your place for a couple days? I’ve got a wounded wing and have to stay grounded for a bit.” “Oh! Of course Rainbow Dash, do you want me to walk you there?” Fluttershy offered. “No, no, you go on ahead. Besides, I gotta wait here for Pinkie and make sure she doesn’t send herself to Cloudsdale for nothing.” Rainbow politely declined. “Oh, well don’t be too late now, roomie.” Fluttershy said with a soft chuckle, flying off to her cabin. As Rainbow sat out front Sugarcube Corner, she heard the faint sound of music around the corner. Her ears perked up, as the proceeding memories came flooding back. The masked pony, the wound, the crash, the cut to black. ’No way.’ Rainbow Dash immediately got up and made a break for Fluttershy’s cabin, running through the uncharacteristically silent Ponyville. Rainbow reached the cabin’s door and knocked feverishly. “Oh, I didn’t expect to see you so soon.” Fluttershy greeted as she opened the door. “Is Pinkie ok?” “What? Oh, right, uh yeah Pinkie’s great canicomeinnow?” Rainbow blurted out nervously. “Oh of course, make yourself at home.” Fluttershy said allowing Rainbow inside. Finally in the comfort of Fluttershy’s cabin, Rainbow relaxed her nerves on the couch. “You can sleep in my bed if you want, I can take the couch.” Fluttershy proposed. “Oh no I couldn’t take your bed from you, the couch is good.” Rainbow turned down. “Alright, I’ll be in the shower. I have some spare pillows and blankets in a closet upstairs. You just get comfy now.” Fluttershy said with a smile. “Alright, thanks again for all this Flutters.” Rainbow said. “Anytime!” Fluttershy said as she ascended up the stairs. Rainbow Dash soon followed in Fluttershy’s footsteps up the stairs to retrieve the aforementioned pillow and blanket. As Rainbow checked the first closet she saw she heard movement in Fluttershy’s room. At first Rainbow thought it was Fluttershy herself but ultimately threw that theory out when she heard the shower was already going. Rainbow Dash swallowed her fear and creaked open the door to the bedroom. As Rainbow walked in and flicked on the light she noticed nothing out of the ordinary. Suddenly she heard the door swing behind her, making her jump back and bump into a nearby dresser. When she turned to the door she found none other than Angel Bunny staring her down. “Uggh, listen here rabbit, you can’t be doing that! I’m having a tense day as is, I don’t need you freaking me out.” Rainbow growled at the offending hare. Angel simply stuck his tongue out and hopped away. ’crazy rabbit, now I gotta fix all the stuff he made me knock over.’ Rainbow stepped over to the dresser she collided with and started picking up the fallen items. She picked up a small mirror and placed it on a shelf, when she looked at it she noticed more than just herself in its reflection. Whipping her head around, there stood the killer from her “dream”. “Oh shit!” Rainbow quickly grabbed the mirror and swung it against the stalker’s head, as they fell to the ground she made a run for the door. Right before freedom, the anonymous attacker grabbed hold of her back hoof, making her fall to the ground. The home invader swung her onto Fluttershy’s bed and pinned her down. “Get the hell off me you freak!” Rainbow yelled while fighting back. The masked murderer grabbed a vase off a nightstand and smashed it against the corner, creating a jagged weapon. Looking up, Rainbow met the gaze of the colt mask and the broken vase being raised above her. With a final scream, all things went to black. Freak OutRING RING RING Rainbow Dash shot up in her bed gasping for air. “Woah, Dashie, are you ok?” A suddenly appearing Pinkie Pie asked in concern. Rainbow frantically looked around the room, eyes darting in every direction. She rushed out of bed and headed for the door. “Woah! Where you going Dashie? If you leave it-“ “Couldn’t be my birthday?” Rainbow finished Pinkie’s thought. “Uhh.. yeah.” Pinkie said, taken aback. “And you’re in my house cause you didn’t wanna miss the chance to be the first person to tell me happy birthday? And you were gonna fire off the party cannon?” Rainbow predicted. “Wow, have I become that predictable?” Pinkie wondered. “Oh my Celestia, this is a living nightmare.” Rainbow said with dread on her face. “Hey! If you didn’t want a birthday party you could’ve just said so!” Pinkie said, offended. Rainbow hardly noticed Pinkie’s words as she scrambled to leave her house. Rushing out the front door she noticed a mare walking by waving happily. “Hiya Rainbow Dash!” Rainbow quickly brushed past her, glancing with horror in her eyes. Derpy attempted to call out to her but found it to already be too late. As Rainbow ran past she suddenly heard a metal banging noise, as she turned back she saw Derpy rubbing her forehead while looking at a lamppost. “Sorry about that Mr. Night Light, won’t happen again.” Derpy apologized to the post. ‘No, no, no, NO, NO, NO!’ Rainbow continued to run before having her vision suddenly obscured. “TWENTY HORSES ON THE MOON CONCERT TONIGHT AT THE CLOUD DROP CAFE! BE THERE OR BE SQUARE!” A mare with a flashy mane and purposefully torn clothing announced while waving around flyers. Rainbow shoved the mare to the side, desperately charging down the street. “Hey! Watch it you square!” The punked out mare shouted. LET ME OUT OF THIS HELL As Rainbow’s attempt at an escape continued, she noticed more horrifyingly familiar happenings around her. The forsaken rain cloud suddenly pouring on the couple across the street, that damned oven going off in a house as she walked by, the freaky stallion practicing sit ups behind a diner of all places. I CAN’T TAKE IT ANYMORE “Hey! Rainbow!” Rainbow was steadfast in her thoughts, barely noticing Soarin waving her down. “Hey are you doing alright? What’s got you in such a rush?” Soarin asked her. Rainbow simply stared at him with her traumatized face and sunken eyes before running off again without a word. _______________________________________________ Rainbow barreled through the door of the Golden Oak Library and slammed it shut, heavily panting. “Oh! Hey there Rainbow Dash, do you need help with something?” Twilight Sparkle sat at her reading desk, greeting her newfound guest. Rainbow continued to push against the door, seemingly staring off into nothing. “Uhh, hello? Are you ok Rainbow Dash?” Twilight asked. “What’s gotten into her?” Spike asked as he descended the staircase from the bedroom. “I’m not sure, but it’s making me worried.” Twilight answered. “T-twilight… I think I’m losing my mind.” Rainbow shuddered through bated breath. “I don’t know what’s h-happening to me.” “Hey, hey, calm down. Tell me what’s going on.” Twilight consoled her friend. “This doesn’t make a-any sense but.. I’ve lived through the same day two times now. And I’m starting to think it’ll be the only day I ever live through for the rest of my life..” Rainbow explained as best she can. “Rainbow.. are you sure you’re not just experiencing deja vu? I’m sure-“ “You got me the new Daring Do book. For my birthday. The book that’s not out for another week. Right?” Rainbow interrupted. “Ugh, Spike! I told you not to tell her tha-“ “Nopony told me! That’s the problem! I know what’s going to happen because I’ve already lived through it two times now, and what’s going to happen is that I’m going to get murdered!” Rainbow pleaded. “I don’t know who it is or why but all I know is that I’m going to die!” Twilight could see the tears forming along Rainbow Dash’s eyes, confirming to her that Rainbow wasn’t mistaken. “Oh Rainbow.. I’m so sorry this is happening to you. Why don’t you stay here until you feel better? I’ll tell the girls about your problem and to postpone the party.” Twilight comforted. “T-thank you Twilight..” Rainbow trembled. “Alright, you just get some rest now. I’m going to go inform the others. Spike will stay here to keep you company.” Twilight said as she gave Rainbow a hug and headed out the door. Rainbow watched as Twilight left out the door. Taking in her temporary living spaces, Rainbow decided she wasn’t gonna be taking any chances. _______________________________________________ Hammering the last nail into place, Spike turned back to Rainbow Dash. “Is all this really necessary? I’m not sure Twilight’s gonna appreciate your sense of decorating.” Spike asked his new roomie. “Yes, Spike, it’s entirely necessary. We can’t let that psychopath have any opportunity of getting in here.” Rainbow explained. “I understand that, but boarding up every door and window? Seems a bit excessive.” Spike retorted. “Well being excessive is the only thing keeping me and you away from the sharp end of a knife, so quit complaining and help me move this bookshelf in front of the door.” Rainbow commanded. As she pulled the bookcase in front of the door, an envelope with ‘RD’ written on it slipped out from between two books. Immediately feeling her heart drop, Rainbow Dash opened the envelope to find a birthday card inside. “W-what’s that?” Spike asked, unsure of the parchment’s origin. Rainbow read the inside of the card, dread inviting itself back into her life. “Hope you enjoy today, because there’s not gonna be a tomorrow..” Rainbow read aloud. Dropping the card, Rainbow immediately checked her surroundings. As Rainbow Dash scanned the library, she spotted an open window on the ceiling. “Oh shit…” Rainbow muttered. “That’s not good that is so not good!” Spike panicked. “Spike. Listen to me. I need you to go hide in the basement. I’m not letting you get hurt because of MY problems.” Rainbow ordered. “B-but I can’t just leave you here with a killer! W-what if-“ “Spike! I’m gonna be fine, now go!” Rainbow demanded. Hesitantly, Spike followed Rainbow Dash’s orders and sheltered himself in the library’s basement. Brandishing a hammer, Rainbow assumed the defensive. “Ok asshole, you can come out now. I’m all you want right? Just me and you?” Rainbow taunted. Thinking she heard movement in a closet upstairs, Rainbow slowly approached with her weapon at the ready. Opening the closet door, Rainbow found herself face to face with emptiness. With a huff of annoyance, Rainbow slowly backed away from the closet. It wasn’t long before she felt her back hoof make contact. Whipping around, Rainbow was finally greeted with the colt masked killer. As the attacker made their first swing, Rainbow stepped to the side to dodge it, retaliating with a hit to the stalker’s head using her hammer. The masked murderer was sent tumbling over Twilight’s bed as Rainbow make a break for the front door. She immediately started pushing the bookcase she had just put there, feeling it barely scratch along the floor. It wasn’t long until the attacker was back on their hooves, charging down the stairs. Rainbow went into full force pushing the bookcase, watching the killer draw ever closer. Looking up, she met the gaze of the colt mask and a knife being raised above her. With a final scream, all things went to black. _______________________________________________ Rainbow Dash shot straight up in her bed, screaming her lungs out. “AAAAAAAAAAWHATS HAPPENING WHY ARE WE SCREAMING!?” A suddenly appearing Pinkie Pie yelled alongside. RING RING RING “SHUT UP! JUST SHUT THE- OW, OW!” Rainbow shouted, clutching her sides. “Dashie are you ok?! What’s ha-“ “SHUT UP SHUT UP SHUT UP!!” Rainbow screamed, grabbing her alarm clock and throwing it at a wall. “Oh dear Celestia make it stop make it stop make it stOP MAKE IT STOP!” “Are you ok?!” Pinkie questioned again. “Get AWAY from ME!” Rainbow growled. She stumbled out of bed and ran out the front door. “Jeez, somebody doesn’t like birthdays.” Pinkie said, hoping Rainbow was out of ear shot. As Rainbow stumbled down the street, a mare walked by waving happily. “Hiya Rainbow Da-” Rainbow shoved past the mare, causing her to hit her head against a lamppost. “Ouch! Sorry about that Mr. Night Light, won’t happen again.” Derpy apologized to the post. Rainbow continued her panic before having her vision suddenly obscured. “TWENTY HORSES ON THE MOON CONCERT TONIGHT AT THE- The preforming band’s advertiser became another victim of Rainbow’s disregard as they were knocked out of her way. Rainbow continued her frenzied walk, highly aware of the repeated happenings around her. ’That asshole rain cloud pouring on the stupid couple across the street, that goddamn oven going off, that fucking guy behind the shitty diner of all places.’ Rainbow was in a blind haze of complete horror. She had no knowing of where she was even going anymore. Until she suddenly ran face first into a pony, clearing her mind if only for a brief moment. “Woah there newbie, slow it down now. Save that energy for practice today.” Soarin said as Rainbow looked at him with wide, lost eyes. Rainbow suddenly found herself throwing her front hooves around Soarin, holding in a desperate embrace. “Help me..” Rainbow shuttered. _______________________________________________ Sitting silently at the Cloud Drop Cafe, Rainbow was sipping her drink and staring at the floor. “So… do you think there’s a reason you specifically are reliving the same day?” Soarin asked, theorizing about Rainbow’s situation. “Could it have to do with it being your birthday?” “No.. I don’t think so. There’s nothing special about birthdays, especially mine.” Rainbow refuted. “Do you think the killer knows it’s your birthday?” Soarin questioned. “They must. They made sure I found a birthday card when they killed me yesterday, or, later today, or- oh you get it.” Rainbow groaned. “So, let’s make a list of everyone that knows today is your birthday.” Soarin proposed. “Well, thanks to Pinkie, practically everypony in Ponyville knows, and everypony at the academy also knows. So doesn’t really narrow it down much now does it.” Rainbow scoffed. “Stupid damn parties, it literally could be anyone!” “Well, who would have a motive?” Soarin asked. “…Maybe Mane Moon, I may have accidentally blew him off on a date last month. It was for a good reason though! There was this thing in Canterlot and I-“ “You were gonna go on a date with Mane Moon?” Soarin asked, befuddled. “Look just write the names ok.” Rainbow deflected. “Clear Skies, Inky Rose, Night Glider.. let’s see.. OH, definitely Lighting Dust she’d kill me in an instant.” “No one should have a suspect list this long.” Soarin blankly told Rainbow. “Ugh, this is pointless, isn’t it?” Rainbow asked. “Look, the way I’m looking at it. You cannot die. Even if you wanted to. So what’s stopping you from just doing a bit of trial and error?” Said Soarin. “Oh what a great plan. Just get myself killed over and over? Just keep getting murdered until I figure it out. How long did it take for you to make that one?” Rainbow said, with extreme sarcasm. “Well I’m not hearing anything from you so unless you got something better, this is what we’re going with.” Soarin refuted. Rainbow stared at Soarin, searching in her head for something to prove him wrong. When she came back with nothing, she lowered her head in acceptance. “Shit.” _______________________________________________ Sneaking behind Sweet Apple Acres, Rainbow Dash peered into a window at the back of the Apple family’s kitchen. She saw Applejack searching through the fridge. “Ah ha! There it is.” Applejack said as she had seemingly found what she was looking for. “Applejack! Can you come here and help me with my homework?” Apple Bloom called from upstairs. “Sure thing sis!” Applejack called as she closed the fridge door, unintentionally revealing a shiny pear to Rainbow Dash. ‘No. Way.’ Rainbow Dash silently mouthed to herself. She stepped down from the window and turned around, only to find the colt mask staring back at her. “Son of a-“ With a stab to the chest, all things went to black. APPLEJACK _______________________________________________ With dark green dyed hair and full camo gear, Rainbow Dash watched Clear Skies from the bushes as she sat at the edge of the Ponyville lake. When Clear Skies simply continued to sit there for hours, Rainbow concluded her steak-out. Exiting her bush and turning around disappointed, Rainbow was blind sided by the masked pony running at her with full speed. The assaulter tackled Rainbow into the lake and held her head under until, eventually, all things went to black. CLEAR SKIES _______________________________________________ Rainbow Dash and Rarity were walking and talking down the streets of Ponyville when a gruff stallion suddenly bumped into Rarity, knocking her saddlebag to the ground. “Ah! How rude!” Rarity gasped. As the contents of Rarity’s bag spilled out, Rainbow Dash noticed a familiar envelope with a birthday card inside. Picking it up, Rainbow stared Rarity down with malice. “You bitch!” Rainbow snarled as she attacked Rarity. Rarity pushed Rainbow back, pulling herself down with her into the road. Now with both of them on the floor, Rainbow pinned Rarity down, ready to attack. But before either of them could react, a carriage careened down the road towards them, and as it crashed, all things went to black. RARITY _______________________________________________ Waiting around the corner of Sugarcube Corner with a bat at the ready, Rainbow Dash prepped herself as she saw a shadow walk towards her. Swinging around the corner, the bat collided with the shadow’s owner. “Oh shitshitshitshitshitshit Derpy wake up! Derpy! Derpy come on! Get up Derpy come on you’ve taken worse!” Rainbow pleaded with the corpse. Noticing she no longer had the bat in her possession, she turned back and was met with the weapon now swinging in her direction, being wielded by the killer in the mask. And with the collision to her skull, all things went to black. What’s LeftRING RING RING Rainbow Dash solemnly opened her eyes and rubbed a hoof against her head. Reaching over, she pressed down on the blaring alarm clock. “This plan totally sucks.” Rainbow muttered to the universe. “What plan?” A suddenly appearing Pinkie Pie wondered. “Don’t worry about it.” Rainbow dismissed her. Rainbow rolled out of bed, ready to restart the day over. “Hey Dashie, you know what today is?” Pinkie questioned. “Yes, Pinkie, how could I forget.” Rainbow seared through gritted teeth. “It’s my birt-“ Rainbow attempted to finish her response when an agonizing pain shot through her chest. “Ow! What the..” Rainbow said as she wrapped a hoof around her midsection. “Are you ok?” Pinkie asked. “Yeah, yeah, never better.” Rainbow said, brushing off the pain. As she neared the front door she felt another shot of pain hit her. “I don’t know Dashie, you don’t look ok.” Pinkie pointed out. “I’m telling you I’m alright..” Rainbow responded weakly. Staggering closer towards the door, Rainbow Dash felt her logs wobble. She attempted to keep them straight but as her vision blurred, she suddenly fell forward, passing out on the floor. “Dashie!” Pinkie yelped in worry. _______________________________________________ With vision slowly clearing and consciousness creeping in, Rainbow Dash attempted to make out where she had awoken. But before she could get a full grasp of her new surroundings, a blurry figure appeared in the doorway. As it approached closer, Rainbow felt her heart drop. Unsure if her mind was playing tricks or if this was reality, Rainbow braced herself for another encounter with her repeat killer. “Feeling better Rainbow Dash?” A now identifiable Pinkie Pie asked. Rainbow loosened her muscles and sunk back into the bed she found herself on. Looking down at herself she noticed she was now adorned in a hospital gown. “Oh man, what happened?” Rainbow asked. “Oh it was awful! You collapsed in your bedroom, and then I was like “wow she must still be tired!” but then you wouldn’t wake up and I was like “OHMYGOSH! Rainbow wake up wake up wa-“ “Pinkie. What day is it?” Rainbow asked desperately. “Friday. Why do you ask?” Pinkie responded, unfazed by Rainbow’s interruption. “No, Pinkie. The date, like the number.” Rainbow clarified. “Ohhhhhhhhhhh! The 14th, your birthday!” Pinkie happily answered. Rainbow simply closed her eyes and sighed. “Is everything alright Dashie?” Pinkie asked. “Yeah, yeah..” Rainbow said staring at the ceiling. There was an awkward beat of silence before the door creaked open. “Visiting hours for Ms. Dash are over now.” A nurse pony informed as she walked in. “Awwww.. oh well. I’ll see you tomorrow Rainbow!” Pinkie said, hopping past the nurse and out of the room. “See ya tomorrow Pinks.” Rainbow said. Rainbow looked over at the nurse. “So, when will I be out of here?” The nurse closed the door and pulled a chair next to Rainbow’s bed. “Well, Ms. Dash. There’s a bit of complication with that.” The nurse started. She then pulled out x-ray scans from a folder. “We just received these from imaging and, well… all things considered you shouldn’t be alive.” The nurse said bluntly. Pointing at the scans, Rainbow saw that her ribcage was completely deformed, with the surrounding tissue not fairing any better. “It’s a miracle really that I’m sitting here talking to you right now.” The nurse admitted. Rainbow looked at the nurse and then back at the x-rays. She then sat up and pulled herself out of bed. “No, no, Ms. Dash hold on!” The nurse stopped her. “I need to get out of here.” Rainbow told her. “No can do, we need you to stay for observations.” The nurse said. “If I don’t get out I’m going to die I ne-“ “I’m sorry Rainbow Dash but I cannot allow that.” The nurse said, pulling Rainbow back into her bed. “I can guarantee you are completely safe here.” Rainbow Dash stared the nurse down for a bit before silently nodding her head and laying back down. “Now is there anything you need Ms?” The nurse asked. “I’m really thirsty.. can I get some water?” Rainbow Dash answered. The nurse nodded and walked for the door. “Thank you..” Rainbow said, weak. As the nurse shut the door behind her, Rainbow listened as her hoofsteps drew further and further away. Feeling the nurse was a significant distance away, she threw her blanket off and pushed out of bed. She slipped out of her room and started traversing through the hospital. Seeing an axe hung on the wall behind a glass case, Rainbow hatched a new plan. ’I gotta find the keys to open that case.’ Going with the first place she thought, Rainbow made her way to the nurse’s office. She silently searched through the hospital, sneaking by undetected, until she finally located the nurse’s office. ’Bingo!’ Letting herself in, Rainbow began searching through the desk in the middle of the room. As she turned over every item, Rainbow was taken aback when she found not the keys, but something much more damning. The colt mask, tucked away in a bottom drawer. Stunned into silence, Rainbow decided to ditch the axe and just get to the exit as soon as possible. As she exited the office Rainbow Dash tried to remember the last exit she saw and quickly mapped a route in her head. As she silently followed her own trail, Rainbow passed by the room she woke up in without even realizing. “Ms. Dash where have you been?!” The nurse whisper-shouted as she walked out of Rainbow’s room. “Y-you stay away!” Rainbow yelled as she whipped around. “Ms. Dash what are you talking about?” The nurse questioned. As the nurse continued to try and soothe Rainbow Dash she became oblivious to the figure approaching behind her. “NO LOOK OUT!” Rainbow called out. Unable to react to Rainbow’s warning, the nurse felt the steel of a knife and was swiftly taken out by the masked killer. Watching her fall to the floor, Rainbow Dash staggered backwards before breaking into a full sprint down the hospital’s halls. With the killer now running after her, Rainbow Dash quickly turned a corner and located a staircase going down. She ran full speed ahead and busted through the door. Reaching the bottom of the stairs in record time, Rainbow was finally released from the hospital. Rainbow quickly noticed she was now down in Ponyville and ran for the center of town. “I’m free! I’m finally free! Try and catch me now bitch!” Rainbow laughed triumphantly. As she was running down the dirt path, Rainbow was suddenly stopped by the blaring ring of a whistle in her ears. “Hold it! Hold it! Where do you think you’re going?” A police pony questioned. “Oh officer thank Celestia you’re here! There’s a maniac just down this path at the hospital, if you run now you ca-“ “Yeah yeah, likely story. I got a hundred of you wackos breaking out the hospital every night, it’s gonna take more than the old “being chased by a murderer” routine to trick me.” The officer said, lighting a cigarette. “W-what?! I’m serious! They’re wearing a colt mask and a black bodysuit! They’ve been chasing me for days, or, the same day, I mean, they-“ “Zip it kid, just cooperate with me here and this won’t get messy.” The police pony said, pulling out hoofcuffs. “Hey, what are you doing?! I’m not the creep here the fucking murderer is! Now go arrest them befor-“ Rainbow was interrupted by the officer holding her down cuffing her. “Hey! Watch it! You’re making a huge mistake!” Rainbow yelled. “Yeah another crazed pony coming from the hospital, if you could sen-“ It was the officer’s turn to be interrupted as he was suddenly tackled by the masked pony. With a yell into his radio, the cop was silenced. “Shit! No, no, nononoNONONO! I was done! I survived! This can’t happen!” Rainbow screamed into the world. The masked pony stood over Rainbow, looking at her cuffed hooves, realizing how immobilized she now was. “You son a bitch! Who are you?! Why are you doing this to me!? Show yourself! Show yourself you coward!” Rainbow yelled at the mask staring at her. The anonymous murderer walked away, grabbing the lighter out of the officer pony’s shirt pocket. Rainbow’s pupils shrank in fear as she connected the dots. With the psycho pony looming over her, its mask illuminated with the lighter’s orange glow, Rainbow stared back in terror. “Oh fuck..” With a drop of the lighter and a rise in the flames, all things went to black. _______________________________________________ RING RING RING “Goddammit.” “Is something wrong Dashi- “Quiet! Be quiet. Shut up.” Rainbow silenced the suddenly appearing Pinkie Pie. “…I’m just joking.” She laughed. “Oh, uh.. hehe.” Pinkie weakly laughed at what Rainbow apparently considered a joke. Rainbow drudged into her bathroom and grabbed painkillers from the cabinet, emptying the full bottle into her hoof. “I’m not sure you should be taking that many.” Pinkie said in concern. “Wouldn’t that k-i-l-l you?” “You’d be surprised.” Rainbow said, washing down the pills with water from her sink. “Hey Dashie, were you having a nightmare?” Pinkie asked. “Why do you ask?” Rainbow asked back. “You were screaming super loud before you woke up. I would’ve woken you up myself but then I thought “oh! she might be having a screaming contest dream, and I wouldn’t wanna ruin her winning streak!” by the way, did you win?” Pinkie responded. “No, I was just dying again.” Rainbow said. “Oooooooh, that makes sense. Wait, no it doesn’t. What do you mean Rainbow Dash?” Pinkie asked. “It’s a long, and frustrating, story.” Rainbow answered. “Oh please tell me, pleeeeeease!” Pinkie begged. Rainbow looked into Pinkie’s puppy dog eyes and pondered her request. “…oh what the hell. I didn’t have plans today anyway.” Rainbow huffed with a sigh. “Come on, let’s walk and talk.” “Woohoo!” Pinkie exclaimed. “So, what does death feel like?” “Ok, wow, starting with a loaded one. Well, it’s painful, as you’d imagine, and seemingly never ending.” Rainbow explained. “Hmm, sounds so not fun.” Pinkie expressed as she followed Rainbow Dash out the door. “How have you died more than once?” “Honestly, I don’t even know. I just keep waking up on the same day over and over again. Like, ok, watch this.” Rainbow said, beginning her presentation. “You see Derpy over there? She’s gonna wave to me and then walk directly into this lamppost, then she’s gonna say “sorry mr. night light, won’t happen again!” and walk off.” Rainbow explained, mimicking Derpy’s mannerisms. “Hiya Rainbow Dash! Hiya Pinkie Pie!” “Heya Derpy.” Rainbow responded with a slight wave. “Hey Derpster!” Pinkie waved excitedly. As Rainbow and Pinkie walked past they suddenly heard a metal banging noise, as they both turned back they saw Derpy rubbing her forehead while looking at a lamppost. “Sorry about that Mr. Night Light, won’t happen again.” Derpy apologized to the post. Pinkie turned to Rainbow in amazement, who looked back with tired eyes. “No. Way. I am friends. With a WIZARD! This is so super fantastic! Have you always had the power to predict the future but were hiding it from everyone you knew for the greater good!? What’s the weather tomorrow? What’s the lotto numbers? Have they found my brother?” Pinkie yelled, jumping up and down. “I can’t predict the future Pinkie, I only know what happens today.” Rainbow explained in an attempt to calm her friend down. “Aww, still pretty neato though!” Pinkie smiled. “Yeah. Sure.” Rainbow sighed. As the two continued walking, Rainbow felt her stomach groan. “Ugh, when was the last time I ate?” She asked herself. “I know when the next time you eat will be!” Pinkie claimed. _______________________________________________ “That was a weird way to word that.” Rainbow said. “Eh, you win some you lose some.” Pinkie shrugged, searching through The Cloud Drop Cafe’s menu. “Sooooooo, what do you hope you get today?” “Out alive for one.” Rainbow muttered. “No silly, for your birthday!” Pinkie giggled. “I don’t know, I don’t really care. It’s just a birthday.” Rainbow answered solemnly. “Rainbow Dash! There’s no such thing as ‘just a birthday’!” Pinkie gasped. “Every birthday is something worth celebrating! So why not celebrate yours?” “I just don’t want to. Is that a crime?” Rainbow deflected. “Weeeeeeell according to page 368 of the party pony’s code-“ “Pinkie.” Rainbow stated, annoyed. “Oh alright, you get off with a warning this time. But don’t you at least celebrate with your family?” Pinkie asked. Rainbow Dash’s eyes peered down, unable to look at Pinkie. “Oh, I-I’m sorry if I said something I wasn’t supposed too..” Pinkie apologized, taking note of Rainbow Dash’s expression. “No, no, it’s fine.. just.. I haven’t talked about this with anyone really. But.. I guess you won’t even remember this ‘tomorrow’ so, might as well get it out now.” Rainbow spoke up. “I, share a birthday with my sister.” Rainbow started. “No way! That is awesome Rainbow Dash!” Pinkie exclaimed. “Yeah, it was pretty awesome. Until about 13 years ago. There was an accident and… and we couldn’t celebrate together anymore..” Rainbow finished, choking up. “Oh.. oh no Dashie I’m.. I’m so sorry.” Pinkie comforted. “It’s fine Pinkie I just, just need a break from birthdays..” Rainbow sighed. “It’s funny, really, you live the same day a hundred times, you see who you are. If Thunder Streak saw me today, moping like a loner, pushing everyone away.. I don’t think she’d be very happy with me.” Rainbow shuttered. “Well… my Granny Pie used to tell me, “Each day is a chance to be a better pony.” and with your situation, I can’t think of a more fitting time to hear it.” Pinkie smiled softly. “…there’s the problem though, I’m not sure I have many more chances. I feel weaker every time I wake up, and eventually, I finally won’t wake up at all.” Rainbow said. “…but if you d-don’t wake up, you’ll miss Wonderbolts practice!” Pinkie tried to stay positive, holding back tears. “Yeah.. Wonderbolts practice..” Rainbow repeated. “..Wonderbolts..” Rainbow’s eyes slowly grew in speculation. Dismissing herself from lunch, Rainbow got up from the cafe table and ran outside. “Rainbow Dash, wait for me!” Pinkie called. _______________________________________________ “Where is he?! Where is that sick fuck?!” Rainbow questioned, barging into the Wonderbolts Academy. “Woah there rookie, where’s who?” Spitfire asked for clarification. “Where’s that son of a bitch Soarin?” Rainbow hissed. “In the locker room, now why are you so ma-“ Rainbow charged through the academy before Spitfire could finish. “..I told him Rainbow wasn’t the romantic type.” Spitfire shook her head in disappointment, coming to her own conclusions. _______________________________________________ “You!” Soarin closed his locker to reveal who was yelling at him. “Umm, hey Rainbow Dash. Can I uh, help you?” Soarin asked. “You tell me. You knew when I was going to Sugarcube Corner. You knew I couldn’t fly and had to stay in Ponyville. You saw me run away to Twilight’s library. You knew the list of suspects I was investigating.” Rainbow layed it out clearly. “And turns out, there was a name I forget on that list.” Rainbow said, shooting looks as sharp as daggers at Soarin. “What are you talking about? What suspects? Investigating them for what?” Soarin asked. “For my MURDER!” Rainbow shouted. “…uhh Rainbow Dash, you’re alive.” Soarin observed. “Stop fucking talking right now! Just accept I’ve got you this time! Just let me live again!” Rainbow demanded. Rainbow looked around the locker room and spotted an emergency fire axe on the wall. Turning away from it, she raised her two back hooves and bucked the glass into pieces, equipping herself with the axe. “Now don’t you make a single fucking move, I’m so done with all the shit you’ve put me through.” Rainbow said pointing the axe at Soarin. “Ok, let’s just calm dow- “I SAID DON’T FUCKING TALK, YOU JUST FUCKING LOVE THE SOUND OF YOUR OWN VOICE HUH?!” Rainbow screamed. “Now. You’re going to do just as I say. You’re going to stay in front of me with your hooves where I can see them. You’re going to walk into the main hall with the rest of the Wonderbolts. And you’re going to confess to planning on killing me. Now walk.” Soarin slowly walked out of the locker room, traversing to the main hall. Upon their arrival, the other Wonderbolts took immediate notice to Rainbow Dash’s tool. “Listen everyone! I think Soarin has something he wants to tell all of you.” Rainbow announced, an almost crazed look in her eyes. With a nervous gulp in his throat and a smack of his lips, Soarin began his message. “RAINBOW DASH HAS COMPLETELY SNAPPED! SHE IS ARMED AND DANGEROUS, ALERT SECURITY AND EVACUATE TO SAFETY!” Soarin yelled for all to hear. Rainbow Dash’s face dropped as she heard the panic unfold around her. “SHE’S GOT AN AXE!” Yelled Blaze. “TAKE MOON MANE FIRST!” Offered Surprise. “What’s your guy’s fucking problem?” Moon Mane questioned “Guards! Arrest that mare now!” Spitfire commanded security. ’what a minute.. if they lock me behind bars, there’s now way my killer can get to me!’ Watching the security ponies charge towards her, Rainbow closed her eyes and genuinely smiled for the first time in days. _______________________________________________ “Umm.. hi, Rainbow Dash.” Blossomforth greeted. “Heya Blossom! How’s it going?” Rainbow asked. “Oh, it’s uhh.. not great, really.” Blossomforth admitted. “Mostly because of you.” “Yeah, sorry about that. But trust me, it was for the greater good.” Rainbow apologized. “Uh huh, yeah. A-anyway, Spitfire told me to bring you dinner. Happy birthday.” Blossomforth said as she slid a tray with a single cupcake into Rainbow’s cell. “I made it myself, before you went, crazy, and all that..” “An angle food cupcake with strawberry icing? You know me so well!” Rainbow praised. “Pinkie Pie helped me with it.. she probably regrets that now though..” Blossomforth frowned. “Alright, I gotta go now. Goodbye Rainbow Dash.” “See ya later Blossom!” Rainbow waved. Unwrapping the pastry, Rainbow took in the elegance of its shape and craft. With a delectable first bite, all things went to black. All’s RightRING RING RING Rainbow Dash groggily opened her eyes and lifted her head. Reaching her hoof over, she pressed down on the blaring alarm clock. Rainbow Dash then looked at the clock in horror. “No.. nonononoNONONO” Rainbow panicked. “I-I CANT BE HERE! WHY AM I HERE?! I SHOULD BE FUCKING FREE!” “What’s going on Rainbow Dash?” A suddenly appearing Pinkie Pie attempted to comfort. Rainbow ignored Pinkie’s question and ran out of her house on the verge on tears. She immediately took to the skies and flew directly to Wonderbolts Academy. Rainbow barged through the front doors in a desperate, wheezing panic. “Woah there! What’s going on with you rookie?” Spitfire asked, taken aback by Rainbow’s condition. “Spitfire, I need everything I’ve ever left here. From the lockers, from storage from the fucking lost and found, I don’t care I just need it all right now.” Rainbow pleaded. “Ok Rainbow Dash, I can see something’s getting to you, why don’t you just sit here and talk to me for a bit?” Spitfire suggested. “I don’t have a bit! I don’t have a second! I need to pack all my things and get as far away from Cloudsdale as possible!” Rainbow shouted. “Wait, are you leaving Rainbow Dash?” Blossomforth asked. “Cause, I just made this for you.” Blossomforth then revealed an angle food cupcake with strawberry icing to Rainbow. “Thank you, but I already had it last night.” Rainbow said in annoyance. She turned to continue talking to Spitfire, but stopped herself as she made a revelation. “Wait a minute… I died in my sleep.” Rainbow said to herself in disbelief. “What?” Blossomforth questioned. Rainbow Dash turned to Blossomforth with a scowl. “You killed me.” Rainbow accused. “Excuse me?” Blossomforth said in confusion. Rainbow glared down at the cupcake. “You.. poisoned it.” Rainbow realized. “But I never ate it before, so you decided to do the job yourself. And if I did eat it, you’d pin it all on Pinkie Pie. You knew if it was figured out someone poisoned me with the cupcake, they’d immediately assume Pinkie, leaving you free of charge.” “Is there… something happening between you two right now?” Spitfire asked in confusion. “I don’t know what she’s talking about ma’am.” Blossomforth laughed awkwardly. “Maybe we should continue this talk in the locker room.” Blossomforth said as she walked away. “Maybe we should.” Rainbow agreed coldly. _______________________________________________ “Do you really think I’d try to poison you with a cupcake?” Blossomforth asked as she entered the locker room. “I don’t know, you tell me.” Rainbow said as she grabbed the cupcake and blew out the lone candle on top. “Why don’t you try a bite?” Rainbow said, handing the dessert back to Blossomforth. “W-well I wouldn’t wanna take your birthday treat away from you.” Blossomforth rejected sheepishly. “Alright then, I’ll just take it down to the Cloudsdale Police Station. I’m sure they can tell me what this is made of.” Rainbow said as she grabbed the cupcake and started walking out. Blossomforth scowled as Rainbow Dash walked past her, she turned around and grabbed Rainbow by the mane and slammed her into a set of lockers. Rainbow fell to the floor weakly as Blossomforth locked the locker room door. “You annoying, egotistical showoff.” Blossomforth spat. “I get I can be boastful, but isn’t this all a bit much?” Rainbow tried to reason. “You just don’t get it. Let me spell it out for your shriveled brain to understand, the Wonderbolts are facing budget cuts. They have to drop weak fliers and the only thing stopping me from keeping my job is you and your never ending showboating. I can’t lose this! It’s all I have right now! So it’s either I lose everything or you die.” Blossomforth admitted. “Are you fucking serious?! I’ve been in a never ending hell just because you suck at flying!?” Rainbow yelled in bafflement. “And there you go again putting others down because you’re so high on your own cloud you can’t see the pain in other people’s lives!” Blossomforth screamed. “I’m putting you down because you tried to put me down!” Rainbow Dash yelled back as she kicked in one of Blossomforth’s front legs. Blossomforth fell to the floor as Rainbow jumped off the ground and grabbed a fire extinguisher off the wall. Rainbow threw the extinguisher at Blossomforth, who narrowly dodged it. Rainbow charged at Blossomforth and pinned her down. Rainbow drove her hooves into Blossomforth before she pushed her off and reversed their roles. Blossomforth grabbed Rainbow’s mane and repeatedly slammed her head into the floor. Rainbow bucked Blossomforth off and jabbed her in the throat. “Eat shit you bitch!” Rainbow yelled as she grabbed the cupcake and jammed it into Blossomforth’s mouth. Blossomforth gagged and began to panic as she tried to remove any trace of the laced pastry from her face. Noticing the window behind Blossomforth, Rainbow took her chance and tackled her through the other side, into open air. “Are you fucking crazy!?” Blossomforth screamed as they began their decent. “You’re one to talk!” Rainbow retorted. Rainbow Dash held onto Blossomforth’s wings to prevent them from saving her. Blossomforth attempted to shake her off but couldn’t get Rainbow to release her. As the ground below came ever closer, Blossomforth closed her eyes and braces for impact. With a loud crash, the two pegasi collided with the earth. As other ponies gathered around the crash site, they watched as neither Rainbow Dash nor Blossomforth made any move. Eventually, Blossomforth began to twitch as she regained consciousness. With her eyes opening, Blossomforth was met with the sight of Rainbow Dash standing over her with her hoof over Blossomforth’s throat. “Wait! Plea-“ With a final stomp of Rainbow’s hoof, all things went to black. Finally finishing off her daily killer, Rainbow panted with a smile, before falling over and passing out. _______________________________________________ “I cannot believe she thought people would think I poisoned you!” Pinkie Pie said, appalled. “She was never a great judge of character.” Rainbow said, a bandage over her right eye and an ice pack against her forehead. “Oh! I think I see our food coming.” Soarin said, looking beyond their table. “EEEEEEE!! I’m so excited! I’ve never eaten at a Cloudsdale restaurant before!” Pinkie exclaimed. “It’s not a restaurant Pinkie, it’s a cafe. There’s a difference.” Rainbow corrected. “Really? What is it?” Pinkie asked. Rainbow raised her hoof to begin answering, but slowly put it back down as she realized she had no idea what the difference between restaurants and cafes was. “…They’re just different ok.” Rainbow huffed. “Can’t argue with that.” Soarin said with a smirk. “Look I just hit my head pretty hard, cut me some slack.” Rainbow said. “A hayburger, two pancakes and the ultimate fudge-lover’s heartattack?” A waitress pony asked as she brought a tray to the table. “Yes, thank you ma’am.” Soarin said as he retrieved the tray. “Have a good day!” Pinkie called out. She then turned her attention to the dessert she ordered. “What even is that? Like is it a cake or something?” Rainbow questioned. “I have no clue!” Pinkie beamed as she dug into the treat. “Is she always that happy?” Soarin asked. “Would you believe me if I said she was being calmer than usual right now?” Rainbow Dash answered. “How does a high flyer like you meet a pony like her?” Soarin wondered. “Well, everypony in Ponyville has met Pinkie, but only the lucky ones get to call her a true friend.” Rainbow explained. “And I gotta be the luckiest mare in Equestria to have you and her as friends.” “Well, I’m glad to have been of assistance, even if I don’t remember any of it.” Soarin smiled. “Shame here!” Pinkie said through a mouthful of dessert. “Thank you guys, for everything.” Rainbow said as she pulled the two of them into a hug. _______________________________________________ RING RING RING Rainbow Dash groggily opened her eyes and lifted her head. Reaching her hoof over, she pressed down on the blaring alarm clock. “Uggh, does it have to be morning yet?” Rainbow asked the universe. “Of course it does!” A suddenly appearing Pinkie Pie responded. Rainbow looked over at Pinkie in horror, feeling her heart begin to race and her tears begin to swell. “If it wasn’t morning, it couldn’t be your-“ Pinkie stopped herself, taking in her surroundings. “Wait a minute.. this isn’t Lyra’s house. Whoopsies! Sorry Dashie, your birthday was yesterday. See ya later!” Pinkie waved as she let out some air from the balloons helping her float. Rainbow Dash regained her composure and flopped back onto her bed. “Wake me up in the morning.” Author's Note Idk why the chapters are named after directional movements. Hope you enjoyed reading!
Wake UpRING RING RING Rainbow Dash groggily opened her eyes and lifted her head. Reaching her hoof over, she pressed down on the blaring alarm clock. “Uggh, does it have to be morning yet?” Rainbow asked the universe. “Of course it does!” A suddenly appearing Pinkie Pie responded. “AAAHH!” Rainbow yelped as she tumbled out of her bed. “If it wasn’t morning, it couldn’t be your BIRTHDAY!” Pinkie informed. “Pinkie Pie! What are you doing in my room?! How’d you even get up to my house!?” Rainbow rightfully questioned. “I didn’t wanna miss the chance to be the first person to tell you happy birthday!” Pinkie told her. “That doesn’t answer either of my questions but I suppose I didn’t really expect you to.” Rainbow admitted in acceptance. “Oh! Speaking of, HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!” Pinkie exclaimed as she rolled out the party cannon. The cannon fired off its confetti into the room, covering it in decor fit for a party. “Uhh, thanks Pinkie, I appreciate it.” Rainbow half-lied. “But I have to run off to Wonderbolts practice now, so I’ll see ya later, ok?” “Okie-Dokie-Lokie! Have fun Dashie!” Pinkie waved as she let out some air from the balloons helping her float, which Rainbow Dash somehow failed to notice until now. “Alright, I will just for you!” Rainbow snickered as she fixed her mane and headed out the door. As Rainbow stepped out the door and made her way towards the Wonderbolts Academy, she noticed a mare walking by waving happily. “Hiya Rainbow Dash!” “Heya Derpy.” Rainbow responded with a slight wave. As Rainbow walked past she suddenly heard a metal banging noise, as she turned back she saw Derpy rubbing her forehead while looking at a lamppost. “Sorry about that Mr. Night Light, won’t happen again.” Derpy apologized to the post. Rainbow rolled her eyes and turned back down her path. ‘One of these days that mare’s gonna get someone seriously hurt, and if she’s lucky it’ll only be herself.’ Rainbow continued her walk before having her vision suddenly obscured. “TWENTY HORSES ON THE MOON CONCERT TONIGHT AT THE CLOUD DROP CAFE! BE THERE OR BE SQUARE!” A mare with a flashy mane and purposefully torn clothing announced while waving around flyers. Rainbow politely moved the flyer away from her face and gave the abrasive mare a passive-aggressive smile. ‘A rock band at the quietest cafe in Equestria, I’m sure that’s gonna go well.’ As Rainbow’s trek continued, she noticed more innocuous happenings around her. A rain cloud suddenly pouring on a couple across the street, an oven going off in a house as she walked by, a stallion practicing sit ups behind a diner of all places. ‘Sure is an interesting day in Cloudsdale.’ “Hey! Rainbow!” Rainbow blinked as she exited her thoughts and saw Soarin waving her down. “Hey Soarin! How’s it going?” Rainbow asked him with a grin. “Going good, just heading to the academy, same as you I assume?” Soarin responds. “You know it, I’m ready to get my flying on!” Rainbow excitedly confirms. “Well if you’re so ready, how about you race me there?” Soarin proposes. “Oh you are on, get ready to eat my-“ “321GO!” Soarin rushes as he speeds off. “Wha- bu- yo- HEY!” Rainbow fumbles as she winds up her wings and takes off. As Rainbow flies towards the ever closer academy, she sees Soarin at the front doors, smugly waiting for her arrival. “What took you so long, birthday mare?” Soarin asks rhetorically. “Y’know, it’s not a proper win if you che- wait what’d you call me?” Rainbow asks, taken aback. “They have everyone’s birthdays on file at the academy, couldn’t hide it from me if you tried.” Soarin explained. Rainbow grew a blush. “Aw jeez, can you not tell anyone else? I’d rather not with all that right now, it’s bad enough with Pinkie.” Rainbow pleaded. “Oh boy, you are not gonna like what’s coming next newbie.” Soarin said as he entered the academy. As Rainbow followed him in there was a sudden pop near her ear as confetti filled her vision for the second time that day. “Happy birthday newbie!” Spitfire exclaimed as she pulled Rainbow into a noogie. Rainbow pulled herself out and looked around to see her fellow trainees holding a banner adorned with ‘Happy Birthday Rainbow!’. “Oh, oh y-you guys shouldn’t have!” Rainbow appreciated through a weak smile. “Anything for my favorite rookie.” Spitfire said as she put a hoof around Rainbow’s shoulder. “No offense you guys.” “None taken.” Says Blaze. “You’re good.” Assures Surprise. “A little taken.” Frowns Mane Moon. “This is all really great guys, but don’t you think we should be starting practice now?” Rainbow asks. “You’re right, you’re right, but you can’t go flying on an empty stomach right? How about a little cake first, Blossomforth made it herself.” Says Spitfire. Blossomforth blushed as she sheepishly presented a cupcake she made. “I hope you like it. I asked Pinkie Pie what your favorite flavor was and she was kind enough to help me bake it.” Rainbow stepped forward and awed at the confection. An angle food cupcake with strawberry icing. “Wow Blossomforth… this is awesome!” Rainbow praised. “Oh, uh, t-thank you.” Blossomforth smiled, rubbing one hoof with the other. “You don’t have to eat it right now if you don’t want to.” “I’ll have to safe this for later, thanks again Blossomforth!” Rainbow said she pulled Blossomforth into a hug. Rainbow gently placed the cupcake into her locker and followed everyone to the training grounds. _______________________________________________ “Alright good work out there everyone good work!” Spitfire shouted. “Cloud Chaser you were a little wonky but otherwise good work everyone!” “Quite the workout today, huh?” Soaring said, bumping Rainbow with his shoulder. “You can say that again, and I still have a party I gotta go to with my friends down in Ponyville.” Rainbow replied. “Well now why do they get to celebrate with you but we don’t?” Soarin asked with an unserious smile. “Trust me I’d keep it away from them if I could, but I swear Pinkie knew my birthday before I did.” Rainbow scoffed while glancing at a clock on the wall. “Oh shoot I gotta be there in 30 minutes! I’ll see you guys later and thanks again Blossomforth!” Rainbow said while rushing through her locker and out the door. “You’re welcome!” Blossomforth called out, hoping Rainbow was still in ear shot. _______________________________________________ As the sun made its exit and introduced the moon, the mane 6, sans Rainbow Dash, waited in anticipation for the arrival of the birthday mare. “Ooooo I hope she didn’t forget!” Pinkie said worriedly. “Calm down now, I doubt Rainbow would forget her own birthday.” Applejack reassured her. “I forgot mine once.” Fluttershy spoke up. “Well now how did you manage that?” Rarity inquired. “I heard these really scary footsteps outside my bedroom, and I was too frightened to see who it was, so I ended up locking myself in my room for 3 days. Little did I know the second day was my birthday, and the footsteps ended up just being my spider friend Carl walking across a creaky floorboard.” Fluttershy explained with a smile. As the girls looked at Fluttershy with baffled puzzlement, Rainbow Dash finally arrived at Sugarcube Corner. “Dashie! You’re finally here you’re finally here!” Pinkie bounced with excitement. “Yep, just in the nick of time.” Rainbow said, slightly panting. ‘You have no idea’ Rarity said under her breath. “Now who’s ready for PRESENTS!!!” Pinkie announced. “Don’t have to ask me twice.” Rainbow joked, taking a seat as Twilight Sparkle approached her. “Happy birthday Rainbow Dash!” Twilight greeted as she floated over a wrapped gift. “No way!” Rainbow gasped as she unwrapped the gift. ”Daring Do and The Last Living Gold Keeper?! This isn’t out for another week! How’d you pull this off?” “Hehe, let’s just say I put a good word in with an author pal of ours.” Twilight beamed proudly. “Thanks a ton Twilight!” Rainbow said as she pulled into a hug. “Gonna be mighty hard to top that one I reckon” Applejack chuckled to herself as she placed a box on the table in front of Rainbow. “Wow, is this a custom horseshoe?” Rainbow asked excitedly, taking the lid off the box. “Yes siree, you’re always talking ‘bout how ya can’t tell our horseshoes apart when we’re playing toss, so I got’ya one with ya own name on it.” Applejack confirmed. “Nice! That is awesome Applejack!” Rainbow exclaimed. “Oh, I suppose I’m next.” Fluttershy said, presenting her gift. “Oooo nice one Flutters! New wax for Tank’s shell, he was about to run out.” Rainbow said, applauding Fluttershy. “You’re welcome..” Fluttershy responded, blushing with a small smile. “Oh I do hope you enjoy this darling.” Rarity said as she hovered a gift bag onto the table. “Oh, a uh, a manebrush. Th-thanks Rarity.” Rainbow fake smiled. “Oh no no no darling, it’s a special brush for pegasus wings. I had it imported all the way from Fillydelphia.” Rarity explained. Rainbow took the brush and stroked it across her wing. “Oh wow, that feels nice. You’re on to something with this one Rarity.” Rainbow said, soothed. “Oh well you know, it’s kinda my thing.” Rarity said with a small laugh. “Oh! Oh! My turn! My turn!” Pinkie said, jumping up and down. Pinkie placed a ginormous box on the table, obscuring Rainbow Dash’s view beyond it. Rainbow hovered to the top of the box and lifted the massive flaps concealing it. Suddenly, all four sides of box fell back, revealing a spiraling tower of desserts in a rainbow pattern. Rainbow Dash landed and stepped back in awe. “Yes! I knew you’d like it!” Pinkie said ecstatic. “P-Pinkie I… this is just..” Rainbow fell to her haunches, speechless. “Each pastry is ordered by your list of favorite desserts! All the way from number one to number two hundred and forty.” Pinkie said proudly. “You’ve really outdone yourself this time Pinkie.” Rainbow said with wonder in her voice. “Aw shucks, you’re welcome Dashie!” Pinkie said with a hug. “Now, do you think you have enough balloons to get this to Cloudsdale?” Rainbow asked. “Oh sweet, naive, Dashie, I always have enough balloons.” Pinkie responded with a smirk. As Pinkie went into her party lair underneath Sugarcube Corner, the rest of the girls said their farewells. “That was one hootenanny of a party, but I’m plumb tuckered out.” Applejack yawned. “I’ll see you girls tomorrow, and happy birthday Rainbow!” Applejack said while exiting. “I’m sure Spike is getting more impatient as we speak.” Twilight giggled. “Goodnight girls, I’ll see you all tomorrow.” “A lady does need her beauty rest, I shall see you all in the morning.” Rarity exited. “I should probably check on Angel, he gets cranky when I’m out late.” Said Fluttershy. “Alright, I’ll see ya all later.” Rainbow said as she followed Fluttershy out the door. “I still need to wait here for Pinkie, but you have a goodnight.” Rainbow said, Fluttershy turned and nodded before lifting off to her cabin. As Rainbow sat out front Sugarcube Corner, she heard the faint sound of music around the corner. Her ears perked up, and she slowly sat up and followed the noise to the back of Sugarcube Corner. When she finally located the source, all that sat there was a small music box playing a soft rendition of ‘Happy Birthday’. “Heh, alright Pinkie, party’s over.” Rainbow said. As Rainbow received nothing but silence in response she grew more tense. Stepping closer to the music box, she reached her hoof out to pick it up before quickly retracting it as the sound of a crunching twig snapped through the air. Rainbow shot her head back and saw a pony standing just eight feet away from her, wearing a full black bodysuit and a mask resembling a baby colt. Rainbow couldn’t make out any identifying features on the figure, she wasn’t sure if they were a mare or stallion, a unicorn, a pegasus, an earth pony. Nothing. All she knew was that they were staring her down like a wolf. “Cool.. c-costume Pinkie…” Rainbow muttered. “But uhh.. I should be heading home now, heh, gotta be up early y’know?” The pony continued to stare in silence. “Oh! You’re not Pinkie, silly me, thought you were somepony else hehe.. so.. can I help you?” Rainbow asked, playing it cool. The pony continued to stare in silence. Rainbow was getting fed up. “Alright bud, if you’re just here to creep me out, it’s not working. So why don’t you run off and bother somepony else before things get ugly.” Rainbow threatened. The pony walked off silently. “what a creep…” Rainbow sighed. Rainbow started to make her way back to the front of Sugarcube Corner before the music box suddenly played again. She turned her head in the music’s direction before she heard a shift on the roof of Sugarcube Corner and saw the masked pony dropped down from above, brandishing a knife. Rainbow was able to quickly push the attacker back, not without receiving a small cut along her left wing. Rainbow fled the scene as quickly as possible. When she found herself a good distance away from Sugarcube Corner without the attempted murderer in sight, she extended her wings and attempted to return home. But upon the first flap of her wings she found her left one retract with a searing pain, sending her crashing into the dirt below. Rainbow Dash raised her head and quickly checked her surrounding, finding nopony around her. She was going to release a sigh of relief when she suddenly felt her mane be jerked back. Looking up, she met the gaze of the colt mask and a knife being raised above her. With a final scream, all things went to black. Author's Note Woah! My first fan fic! Terrifying! This was originally gonna be my own interpretation of ‘Cupcakes’ mixed with ‘Happy Death Day’ (good movies go watch them) but I decided against that and decided to go with something more original (as original as this can be)
Break DownRING RING RING Rainbow Dash’s eyes snapped open. She slowly sat up and took in her surroundings. Her bedroom, same as it ever was. “A-am I alive?” Rainbow asked the universe. “Of course you are!” A suddenly appearing Pinkie Pie responded. “AAAHH!” Rainbow yelped as she tumbled out of her bed. “If you weren’t alive, it couldn’t be your BIRTHDAY!” Pinkie informed. “Pinkie Pie?! How’d I get back to my room?! Did you fight off that psycho!?” Rainbow rightfully questioned. “Uhh… nooooo?” Pinkie responded in confusion. “Dashie, were you having a nightmare?” Rainbow wasn’t sure how to respond, everything from the day before had felt as real as every other day. But she couldn’t deny the fact that she, supposedly, died yesterday and yet was now back in her bedroom. “I uh.. I guess I was..” Rainbow conceded. “Sorry about that.” “No need to apologize Dashie. Besides, now that you’re awake we can get your BIRTHDAY STARTED!!” Pinkie exclaimed as she rolled out the party cannon. The cannon fired off its confetti into the room, covering it in decor fit for a party. Rainbow was stunned, everything was playing out just as she remembered in her “nightmare”. “Hey Pinkie, why are you up here anyway?” Rainbow asked. “Oh! I didn’t wanna miss the chance to be the first person to tell you happy birthday!” Pinkie told her. Rainbow Dash was terrified by her response. Was her dream a vision of the future? Was the universe trying to tell her something? Is this the most elaborate coincidence in history? Whatever was going on, Rainbow felt the need to get to the bottom of it. “T-thanks Pinkie, but I have to get to Wonderbolts practice now, so I’ll uh.. s-see you later.” Rainbow trembled. “Okie-Dokie-Lokie! Have fun Dashie!” Pinkie waved as she let out some air from the balloons helping her float, which Rainbow Dash made a point of noticing. “Yeah.. I will.” Rainbow said blankly as she was grappling with her situation. As Rainbow stepped out the door and made her way towards the Wonderbolts Academy, a mare walked by waving happily. “Hiya Rainbow Dash!” Rainbow failed to notice her as she was in deep concentration trying to make sense of everything. “Rainbow Dash?” “Huh? Oh uh, hey there Derpy..” Rainbow said, attempting to greet her. “Are you doing alright Rainbow Dash? You don’t seem so hot.” Derpy asked, worried for her friend. “Yeah, yeah I’m alright. Maybe a little headache but uhh.. fine.. otherwise.” Rainbow answered. “Alrighty then, have a good day!” Derpy walked off. “You too Derpy.” Rainbow said walking by. As Rainbow walked past she suddenly heard a metal banging noise, as she turned back she saw Derpy rubbing her forehead while looking at a lamppost. “Sorry about that Mr. Night Light, won’t happen again.” Derpy apologized to the post. ’did she just.. no, no, it’s just a coincidence. It’s Derpy! She always does that! I’m sure she’s walked into that post 100 times.’ Even as Rainbow tried to brush it off she couldn’t deny the eerie similarities. Rainbow continued her walk before having vision suddenly obscured. “TWENTY HORSES ON THE MOON CONCERT TONIGHT AT THE CLOUD DROP CAFE! BE THERE OR BE SQUARE!” A mare with a flashy mane and purposefully torn clothing announced while waving around flyers. Rainbow Dash was finding this all harder and harder to ignore. ’must be an encore performance… for the one.. in my dream..’ Rainbow moved the flyer out of her vision without so much as a glance in the advertiser’s direction. As Rainbow’s trek continued, she noticed more familiar happenings around her. The rain cloud suddenly pouring on a couple across the street, the oven going off in a house as she walked by, the stallion practicing sit ups behind a diner of all places. ’Just a typical Cloudsdale day…’ “Hey! Rainbow!” Rainbow blinked as she exited her thoughts and saw Soarin waving her down. “Oh, hey there Soarin.” Rainbow greeted. “So, how’s it going newbie?” Soarin asked her with a grin. “It’s… it’s going.” Rainbow responds. “How are you doing?” “I’m doing good, just heading to the academy, same as you I assume?” Soarin responds. “Y-you got that right.” Rainbow says, attempting to get the day back to normal. “I’m ready to get my flying on!” “Well if you’re so ready, how about you race me there?” Soarin proposes. “If you say so, get ready to eat my-“ “321GO!” Soarin rushes as he speeds off. “Dammit how’d he get me twice with that!?” Rainbow fumbles as she winds up her wings in an attempted take off. But as Rainbow lifted herself up her left wing suddenly retracted with a familiar stinging. Rainbow suddenly found herself face first in the clouds below. “What taking you so long, birthday mare?” Soarin asks rhetorically. He looks back and sees Rainbow holding a hoof over her wing, taking breaths through gritted teeth. He immediately drops the race and flies back down to her. “Woah, are you doing alright Rainbow Dash?” Soarin asks with concern. “I thought I was, but my left wing totally bailed on me. Do you see anything wrong with it?” Rainbow answers. Rainbow extended her left wing, twitching back a bit once reaching full extension. “Oh man, looks like you have a nasty little cut along here.” Soarin pointed out, hovering one of his hood along her wing. “Ah damn, how’d that happen?” Rainbow asked herself. “Do you want me to tell Spitfire you won’t be coming in today? You know how she is with unexplained absences.” Soarin asks. “Ugh, I guess.” Rainbow said in frustration. “Oh but wait, they have a surprise for my birthday over there, I’d hate for all that to go to waste.” “Uhh, yeah, they do.. how’d you know?” Soarin questioned. “They have everybody’s birthday on file, remember? You’re the one that told me about it.” Rainbow explains. “I did? I don’t remember doing that..” Soarin responded. “I hate asking this but, do you think you can help me get there?” Rainbow asked Soarin. “Sure thing Dash, just hop on and I’ll carry you there.” Soarin offered. “Ugh.. how embarrassing.” Rainbow groaned. “Aww, did someone’s ego get hurt?” Soarin joked. “Pfft shut up.” Rainbow said with a laugh. As Rainbow and Soarin flew towards the ever closer academy they saw Spitfire at the front doors, impatiently waiting their arrival. “Now where have you two been?” Spitfire asked accusingly. “Sorry captain, Rainbow here got a nasty cut on her wing and needed assistance.” Soarin explained firmly. “Hmm, you get a pass this time. Now show me this cut of yours.” Spitfire ordered. Rainbow extended her left wing, making sure to not extend to its full span. “Ouch, that’s not good. Alright, I’m writing you to the nurse’s office immediately.” Said Spitfire. “But what about all the birthday party stuff in there?” Rainbow asked. “Oh shoot!” Spitfire exclaimed, putting a hood against her forehead. “Alright, we’ll have to rush through it but I guess there’s no avoiding it.” Spitfire opened the front doors allowing Rainbow and Soarin to enter, As they followed Spitfire in there was a sudden pop near their ears as confetti filled Rainbow’s vision for the second time that day and Soarin’s for the first time that day. Rainbow waved the confetti away and looked around to see her fellow trainees holding a banner adorned with ‘Happy Birthday Rainbow!’ “Do you like it?” Soarin asked her. “Oh, uh, yeah, of course. Thank you guys so much.” Rainbow said through a weak smile. “Oh well, y’know, anything for my favorite rookie.” Spitfire said as she put a hoof around Rainbow’s shoulder. “No offense you guys.” “None taken.” Says Blaze. “You’re good.” Assures Surprise. “A little taken.” Frowns Mane Moon. “Sorry to cut this party short but Rainbow Dash needs immediate medical assistance. So go get to practice people! Soarin will be in charge while I’m gone.” Spitfire commanded. “Wait! Wait!” A small voice in the crowd called out. Blossomforth stepped forth and presented a cupcake to Rainbow Dash. “I uh, made this for you, Rainbow Dash.” “Oh nice! Is this an angle food cupcake with strawberry icing?” Rainbow asked enthusiastically. “How’d you know that was my favorite?” “Oh, well, I did have a little help from Pinkie Pie down in Ponyville.” Blossomforth admitted. “You don’t have to eat it now if you don’t want to.” “I’ll have to save this for later, thanks again Blossomforth!” Rainbow said as she pulled Blossomforth into a hug. Rainbow gently placed the cupcake into her locker and followed Spitfire to the nurse’s office. _______________________________________________ “Alright, nurse says if you keep that bandage on you should be healed in about 3 days. Of course you realize this means no excessive flying and no attending practice, I gave you a pass today because it’s your birthday and all but I am not, in good faith, allowed to let you attend in the future. Is all that clear?” Spitfire explained. “Yeah yeah I get it, what a bum deal.” Rainbow groaned. “Look kid I’m not looking forward to not having my best flier around but this for your own good. Now head on home and get some rest.” Spitfire consoled. As Rainbow headed for the door she sneaked a glance at the clock on the wall. “Oh shoot I gotta be at Sugarcube Corner in 30 minutes! Hey sorry I gotta ask this but do you think you can fly me down to Ponyville?” Rainbow asked Spitfire. “Sure thing kid, but this means you owe me one now.” Spitfire snickered. Rainbow followed Spitfire to the front of the academy and rushed through her locker and out the door. “Thanks again Blossomforth!” “You’re welcome!” Blossomforth called out, hoping Rainbow was still in ear shot. _______________________________________________ As the sun made its exit and introduced the moon, the mane 6, sans Rainbow Dash, waited in anticipation for the arrival of the birthday mare. “Ooooo I hope she didn’t forget!” Pinkie said worriedly. “Calm down now, I doubt Rainbow would forget her own birthday.” Applejack reassured her. “I forgot mine once.” Fluttershy spoke up. “Well now how did you manage that?” Rarity inquired. “I heard these really scary footsteps outside my bedroom, and I was too frightened to see who it was, so I ended up locking myself in my room for 3 days. Little did I know th-“ “I’M HERE! I’m here don’t worry!” Rainbow called out as she finally arrived at Sugarcube Corner. “Dashie! You’re finally here you’re finally here!” Pinkie bounced with excitement. “Yep, just in the.. nick of time..” Rainbow said. ‘You have no idea’ Rarity said under her breath. “Now who’s ready for PRESENTS!!!” Pinkie announced. Rainbow silently sat at a table as Twilight walked towards her. “Happy birthday Rainbow Dash!” Twilight greeted as she floated over a wrapped gift “Oh woah!” Rainbow gasped as she unwrapped the gift. “Daring Do and The Last Living Gold Keeper! You know what’s so funny? I totally had a dream last night that you got me this.” “Oh wow! That’s quite the coincidence.” Twilight said with a giggle. “Thanks a ton Twilight!” Rainbow said as she pulled into a hug. “Let’s hope your dream didn’t spoil what I got’ya.” Applejack chuckled to herself as she placed a box on the table in front of Rainbow. “Oh huh, a custom horseshoe..” Rainbow said, taking the lid off the box. “Man, I am having the craziest deja vu right now.” “Uh, yeah, well, you’re always talking ‘bout how ya can’t tell our horseshoes apart when we’re playing toss, so I got’ya one with ya own name on it.” Applejack explained. “Thanks Applejack. This is.. awesome.” Rainbow said, still pondering as she turned the horseshoe over in her hoof. “Oh, I suppose I’m next.” Fluttershy said presenting her gift. “Oh, nice Flutters. Tank was.. just about to run out of wax.. for his shell.” Rainbow said, somewhat distracted. “I-is something wrong?” Fluttershy asked. “Huh? Oh, no no it’s just.. could’ve sworn you gave me this yesterday but I uh… must be mistaken.” Rainbow reassured. “Oh.. well i-if you say so.” Fluttershy responded, not fully convinced. “Oh well I do so hope you enjoy this darling.” Rarity said as she hovered a gift bag onto the table. “Oh hey! Is this one of those wingbrushes from Fillydelphia?” Rainbow asked. “W-why yes it is, actually, h-how did you know?” Rarity asked in surprise. “It’s funny, you brought them up.. in my dream.. last night.” Rainbow answered, falling back into thought. “Oh! Oh! My turn! My turn!” Pinkie said, jumping up and down. Pinkie placed a ginormous box on the table, obscuring Rainbow Dash’s view beyond it. Rainbow anxiously pulled one of the long ribbons draping over the top of the box which lifted the massive flaps concealing it. As she expected, all four sides of box fell back, revealing a spiraling tower of desserts in a rainbow pattern. Rainbow Dash landed and stepped back in awe. “Yes! I knew you’d like it!” Pinkie said ecstatic. “You’re all messing with me right?” Rainbow asked. Pinkie stopped hopping in place and turned her head in confusion “Huh? What do you mean?” Pinkie asked. “All this, heck my whole day, it’s been almost identical to my dream last night. Did you guys ask Princess Luna to help on this? Y’know, go into my head to find out what I wanted. I appreciate the effort but you could’ve just asked.” Rainbow said with a small laugh. “Uhhh, we didn’t ask Princess Luna about anything. Are you doing alright?” Twilight asked. “Yeah, you’ve been a little out of it this whole time.” Applejack added. “I’m fine, I think, I’m pretty sure. I guess it’s just eerie how, familiar, all this is.” Rainbow reassured. “Whatever, it’s fine, I’m fine. It’s been great you guys, thanks for all of this.” “You’re welcome!” Pinkie beamed. “Oh! I gotta get balloons to get your cupcake tower back to Cloudsdale!” “No wait Pinkie I’m stay- she’s gone..” Rainbow failed to communicate. As Pinkie went into her party lair underneath Sugarcube Corner, the rest of the girls said their farewells. “Well, if you say you’re alright then I suppose you’re alright, but don’t be afraid to come to any of us for help ya hear?” Applejack said while exiting. “I’ll see if I can find anything about dreams predicting future events in one of my books.” Twilight said. “I shall see you all in the morning, I do hope you have a good rest Rainbow.” Rarity exited. Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy followed Rarity out the door. “I’ll see you all tomorrow!” Rainbow called out. “I should probably check on Angel, he gets cranky when I’m out late.” Said Fluttershy. “Oh hey, Flutters wait up.” Rainbow stopped Fluttershy before she could fly off. “I’ve been meaning to ask but, can I stay at your place for a couple days? I’ve got a wounded wing and have to stay grounded for a bit.” “Oh! Of course Rainbow Dash, do you want me to walk you there?” Fluttershy offered. “No, no, you go on ahead. Besides, I gotta wait here for Pinkie and make sure she doesn’t send herself to Cloudsdale for nothing.” Rainbow politely declined. “Oh, well don’t be too late now, roomie.” Fluttershy said with a soft chuckle, flying off to her cabin. As Rainbow sat out front Sugarcube Corner, she heard the faint sound of music around the corner. Her ears perked up, as the proceeding memories came flooding back. The masked pony, the wound, the crash, the cut to black. ’No way.’ Rainbow Dash immediately got up and made a break for Fluttershy’s cabin, running through the uncharacteristically silent Ponyville. Rainbow reached the cabin’s door and knocked feverishly. “Oh, I didn’t expect to see you so soon.” Fluttershy greeted as she opened the door. “Is Pinkie ok?” “What? Oh, right, uh yeah Pinkie’s great canicomeinnow?” Rainbow blurted out nervously. “Oh of course, make yourself at home.” Fluttershy said allowing Rainbow inside. Finally in the comfort of Fluttershy’s cabin, Rainbow relaxed her nerves on the couch. “You can sleep in my bed if you want, I can take the couch.” Fluttershy proposed. “Oh no I couldn’t take your bed from you, the couch is good.” Rainbow turned down. “Alright, I’ll be in the shower. I have some spare pillows and blankets in a closet upstairs. You just get comfy now.” Fluttershy said with a smile. “Alright, thanks again for all this Flutters.” Rainbow said. “Anytime!” Fluttershy said as she ascended up the stairs. Rainbow Dash soon followed in Fluttershy’s footsteps up the stairs to retrieve the aforementioned pillow and blanket. As Rainbow checked the first closet she saw she heard movement in Fluttershy’s room. At first Rainbow thought it was Fluttershy herself but ultimately threw that theory out when she heard the shower was already going. Rainbow Dash swallowed her fear and creaked open the door to the bedroom. As Rainbow walked in and flicked on the light she noticed nothing out of the ordinary. Suddenly she heard the door swing behind her, making her jump back and bump into a nearby dresser. When she turned to the door she found none other than Angel Bunny staring her down. “Uggh, listen here rabbit, you can’t be doing that! I’m having a tense day as is, I don’t need you freaking me out.” Rainbow growled at the offending hare. Angel simply stuck his tongue out and hopped away. ’crazy rabbit, now I gotta fix all the stuff he made me knock over.’ Rainbow stepped over to the dresser she collided with and started picking up the fallen items. She picked up a small mirror and placed it on a shelf, when she looked at it she noticed more than just herself in its reflection. Whipping her head around, there stood the killer from her “dream”. “Oh shit!” Rainbow quickly grabbed the mirror and swung it against the stalker’s head, as they fell to the ground she made a run for the door. Right before freedom, the anonymous attacker grabbed hold of her back hoof, making her fall to the ground. The home invader swung her onto Fluttershy’s bed and pinned her down. “Get the hell off me you freak!” Rainbow yelled while fighting back. The masked murderer grabbed a vase off a nightstand and smashed it against the corner, creating a jagged weapon. Looking up, Rainbow met the gaze of the colt mask and the broken vase being raised above her. With a final scream, all things went to black.
Freak OutRING RING RING Rainbow Dash shot up in her bed gasping for air. “Woah, Dashie, are you ok?” A suddenly appearing Pinkie Pie asked in concern. Rainbow frantically looked around the room, eyes darting in every direction. She rushed out of bed and headed for the door. “Woah! Where you going Dashie? If you leave it-“ “Couldn’t be my birthday?” Rainbow finished Pinkie’s thought. “Uhh.. yeah.” Pinkie said, taken aback. “And you’re in my house cause you didn’t wanna miss the chance to be the first person to tell me happy birthday? And you were gonna fire off the party cannon?” Rainbow predicted. “Wow, have I become that predictable?” Pinkie wondered. “Oh my Celestia, this is a living nightmare.” Rainbow said with dread on her face. “Hey! If you didn’t want a birthday party you could’ve just said so!” Pinkie said, offended. Rainbow hardly noticed Pinkie’s words as she scrambled to leave her house. Rushing out the front door she noticed a mare walking by waving happily. “Hiya Rainbow Dash!” Rainbow quickly brushed past her, glancing with horror in her eyes. Derpy attempted to call out to her but found it to already be too late. As Rainbow ran past she suddenly heard a metal banging noise, as she turned back she saw Derpy rubbing her forehead while looking at a lamppost. “Sorry about that Mr. Night Light, won’t happen again.” Derpy apologized to the post. ‘No, no, no, NO, NO, NO!’ Rainbow continued to run before having her vision suddenly obscured. “TWENTY HORSES ON THE MOON CONCERT TONIGHT AT THE CLOUD DROP CAFE! BE THERE OR BE SQUARE!” A mare with a flashy mane and purposefully torn clothing announced while waving around flyers. Rainbow shoved the mare to the side, desperately charging down the street. “Hey! Watch it you square!” The punked out mare shouted. LET ME OUT OF THIS HELL As Rainbow’s attempt at an escape continued, she noticed more horrifyingly familiar happenings around her. The forsaken rain cloud suddenly pouring on the couple across the street, that damned oven going off in a house as she walked by, the freaky stallion practicing sit ups behind a diner of all places. I CAN’T TAKE IT ANYMORE “Hey! Rainbow!” Rainbow was steadfast in her thoughts, barely noticing Soarin waving her down. “Hey are you doing alright? What’s got you in such a rush?” Soarin asked her. Rainbow simply stared at him with her traumatized face and sunken eyes before running off again without a word. _______________________________________________ Rainbow barreled through the door of the Golden Oak Library and slammed it shut, heavily panting. “Oh! Hey there Rainbow Dash, do you need help with something?” Twilight Sparkle sat at her reading desk, greeting her newfound guest. Rainbow continued to push against the door, seemingly staring off into nothing. “Uhh, hello? Are you ok Rainbow Dash?” Twilight asked. “What’s gotten into her?” Spike asked as he descended the staircase from the bedroom. “I’m not sure, but it’s making me worried.” Twilight answered. “T-twilight… I think I’m losing my mind.” Rainbow shuddered through bated breath. “I don’t know what’s h-happening to me.” “Hey, hey, calm down. Tell me what’s going on.” Twilight consoled her friend. “This doesn’t make a-any sense but.. I’ve lived through the same day two times now. And I’m starting to think it’ll be the only day I ever live through for the rest of my life..” Rainbow explained as best she can. “Rainbow.. are you sure you’re not just experiencing deja vu? I’m sure-“ “You got me the new Daring Do book. For my birthday. The book that’s not out for another week. Right?” Rainbow interrupted. “Ugh, Spike! I told you not to tell her tha-“ “Nopony told me! That’s the problem! I know what’s going to happen because I’ve already lived through it two times now, and what’s going to happen is that I’m going to get murdered!” Rainbow pleaded. “I don’t know who it is or why but all I know is that I’m going to die!” Twilight could see the tears forming along Rainbow Dash’s eyes, confirming to her that Rainbow wasn’t mistaken. “Oh Rainbow.. I’m so sorry this is happening to you. Why don’t you stay here until you feel better? I’ll tell the girls about your problem and to postpone the party.” Twilight comforted. “T-thank you Twilight..” Rainbow trembled. “Alright, you just get some rest now. I’m going to go inform the others. Spike will stay here to keep you company.” Twilight said as she gave Rainbow a hug and headed out the door. Rainbow watched as Twilight left out the door. Taking in her temporary living spaces, Rainbow decided she wasn’t gonna be taking any chances. _______________________________________________ Hammering the last nail into place, Spike turned back to Rainbow Dash. “Is all this really necessary? I’m not sure Twilight’s gonna appreciate your sense of decorating.” Spike asked his new roomie. “Yes, Spike, it’s entirely necessary. We can’t let that psychopath have any opportunity of getting in here.” Rainbow explained. “I understand that, but boarding up every door and window? Seems a bit excessive.” Spike retorted. “Well being excessive is the only thing keeping me and you away from the sharp end of a knife, so quit complaining and help me move this bookshelf in front of the door.” Rainbow commanded. As she pulled the bookcase in front of the door, an envelope with ‘RD’ written on it slipped out from between two books. Immediately feeling her heart drop, Rainbow Dash opened the envelope to find a birthday card inside. “W-what’s that?” Spike asked, unsure of the parchment’s origin. Rainbow read the inside of the card, dread inviting itself back into her life. “Hope you enjoy today, because there’s not gonna be a tomorrow..” Rainbow read aloud. Dropping the card, Rainbow immediately checked her surroundings. As Rainbow Dash scanned the library, she spotted an open window on the ceiling. “Oh shit…” Rainbow muttered. “That’s not good that is so not good!” Spike panicked. “Spike. Listen to me. I need you to go hide in the basement. I’m not letting you get hurt because of MY problems.” Rainbow ordered. “B-but I can’t just leave you here with a killer! W-what if-“ “Spike! I’m gonna be fine, now go!” Rainbow demanded. Hesitantly, Spike followed Rainbow Dash’s orders and sheltered himself in the library’s basement. Brandishing a hammer, Rainbow assumed the defensive. “Ok asshole, you can come out now. I’m all you want right? Just me and you?” Rainbow taunted. Thinking she heard movement in a closet upstairs, Rainbow slowly approached with her weapon at the ready. Opening the closet door, Rainbow found herself face to face with emptiness. With a huff of annoyance, Rainbow slowly backed away from the closet. It wasn’t long before she felt her back hoof make contact. Whipping around, Rainbow was finally greeted with the colt masked killer. As the attacker made their first swing, Rainbow stepped to the side to dodge it, retaliating with a hit to the stalker’s head using her hammer. The masked murderer was sent tumbling over Twilight’s bed as Rainbow make a break for the front door. She immediately started pushing the bookcase she had just put there, feeling it barely scratch along the floor. It wasn’t long until the attacker was back on their hooves, charging down the stairs. Rainbow went into full force pushing the bookcase, watching the killer draw ever closer. Looking up, she met the gaze of the colt mask and a knife being raised above her. With a final scream, all things went to black. _______________________________________________ Rainbow Dash shot straight up in her bed, screaming her lungs out. “AAAAAAAAAAWHATS HAPPENING WHY ARE WE SCREAMING!?” A suddenly appearing Pinkie Pie yelled alongside. RING RING RING “SHUT UP! JUST SHUT THE- OW, OW!” Rainbow shouted, clutching her sides. “Dashie are you ok?! What’s ha-“ “SHUT UP SHUT UP SHUT UP!!” Rainbow screamed, grabbing her alarm clock and throwing it at a wall. “Oh dear Celestia make it stop make it stop make it stOP MAKE IT STOP!” “Are you ok?!” Pinkie questioned again. “Get AWAY from ME!” Rainbow growled. She stumbled out of bed and ran out the front door. “Jeez, somebody doesn’t like birthdays.” Pinkie said, hoping Rainbow was out of ear shot. As Rainbow stumbled down the street, a mare walked by waving happily. “Hiya Rainbow Da-” Rainbow shoved past the mare, causing her to hit her head against a lamppost. “Ouch! Sorry about that Mr. Night Light, won’t happen again.” Derpy apologized to the post. Rainbow continued her panic before having her vision suddenly obscured. “TWENTY HORSES ON THE MOON CONCERT TONIGHT AT THE- The preforming band’s advertiser became another victim of Rainbow’s disregard as they were knocked out of her way. Rainbow continued her frenzied walk, highly aware of the repeated happenings around her. ’That asshole rain cloud pouring on the stupid couple across the street, that goddamn oven going off, that fucking guy behind the shitty diner of all places.’ Rainbow was in a blind haze of complete horror. She had no knowing of where she was even going anymore. Until she suddenly ran face first into a pony, clearing her mind if only for a brief moment. “Woah there newbie, slow it down now. Save that energy for practice today.” Soarin said as Rainbow looked at him with wide, lost eyes. Rainbow suddenly found herself throwing her front hooves around Soarin, holding in a desperate embrace. “Help me..” Rainbow shuttered. _______________________________________________ Sitting silently at the Cloud Drop Cafe, Rainbow was sipping her drink and staring at the floor. “So… do you think there’s a reason you specifically are reliving the same day?” Soarin asked, theorizing about Rainbow’s situation. “Could it have to do with it being your birthday?” “No.. I don’t think so. There’s nothing special about birthdays, especially mine.” Rainbow refuted. “Do you think the killer knows it’s your birthday?” Soarin questioned. “They must. They made sure I found a birthday card when they killed me yesterday, or, later today, or- oh you get it.” Rainbow groaned. “So, let’s make a list of everyone that knows today is your birthday.” Soarin proposed. “Well, thanks to Pinkie, practically everypony in Ponyville knows, and everypony at the academy also knows. So doesn’t really narrow it down much now does it.” Rainbow scoffed. “Stupid damn parties, it literally could be anyone!” “Well, who would have a motive?” Soarin asked. “…Maybe Mane Moon, I may have accidentally blew him off on a date last month. It was for a good reason though! There was this thing in Canterlot and I-“ “You were gonna go on a date with Mane Moon?” Soarin asked, befuddled. “Look just write the names ok.” Rainbow deflected. “Clear Skies, Inky Rose, Night Glider.. let’s see.. OH, definitely Lighting Dust she’d kill me in an instant.” “No one should have a suspect list this long.” Soarin blankly told Rainbow. “Ugh, this is pointless, isn’t it?” Rainbow asked. “Look, the way I’m looking at it. You cannot die. Even if you wanted to. So what’s stopping you from just doing a bit of trial and error?” Said Soarin. “Oh what a great plan. Just get myself killed over and over? Just keep getting murdered until I figure it out. How long did it take for you to make that one?” Rainbow said, with extreme sarcasm. “Well I’m not hearing anything from you so unless you got something better, this is what we’re going with.” Soarin refuted. Rainbow stared at Soarin, searching in her head for something to prove him wrong. When she came back with nothing, she lowered her head in acceptance. “Shit.” _______________________________________________ Sneaking behind Sweet Apple Acres, Rainbow Dash peered into a window at the back of the Apple family’s kitchen. She saw Applejack searching through the fridge. “Ah ha! There it is.” Applejack said as she had seemingly found what she was looking for. “Applejack! Can you come here and help me with my homework?” Apple Bloom called from upstairs. “Sure thing sis!” Applejack called as she closed the fridge door, unintentionally revealing a shiny pear to Rainbow Dash. ‘No. Way.’ Rainbow Dash silently mouthed to herself. She stepped down from the window and turned around, only to find the colt mask staring back at her. “Son of a-“ With a stab to the chest, all things went to black. APPLEJACK _______________________________________________ With dark green dyed hair and full camo gear, Rainbow Dash watched Clear Skies from the bushes as she sat at the edge of the Ponyville lake. When Clear Skies simply continued to sit there for hours, Rainbow concluded her steak-out. Exiting her bush and turning around disappointed, Rainbow was blind sided by the masked pony running at her with full speed. The assaulter tackled Rainbow into the lake and held her head under until, eventually, all things went to black. CLEAR SKIES _______________________________________________ Rainbow Dash and Rarity were walking and talking down the streets of Ponyville when a gruff stallion suddenly bumped into Rarity, knocking her saddlebag to the ground. “Ah! How rude!” Rarity gasped. As the contents of Rarity’s bag spilled out, Rainbow Dash noticed a familiar envelope with a birthday card inside. Picking it up, Rainbow stared Rarity down with malice. “You bitch!” Rainbow snarled as she attacked Rarity. Rarity pushed Rainbow back, pulling herself down with her into the road. Now with both of them on the floor, Rainbow pinned Rarity down, ready to attack. But before either of them could react, a carriage careened down the road towards them, and as it crashed, all things went to black. RARITY _______________________________________________ Waiting around the corner of Sugarcube Corner with a bat at the ready, Rainbow Dash prepped herself as she saw a shadow walk towards her. Swinging around the corner, the bat collided with the shadow’s owner. “Oh shitshitshitshitshitshit Derpy wake up! Derpy! Derpy come on! Get up Derpy come on you’ve taken worse!” Rainbow pleaded with the corpse. Noticing she no longer had the bat in her possession, she turned back and was met with the weapon now swinging in her direction, being wielded by the killer in the mask. And with the collision to her skull, all things went to black.
What’s LeftRING RING RING Rainbow Dash solemnly opened her eyes and rubbed a hoof against her head. Reaching over, she pressed down on the blaring alarm clock. “This plan totally sucks.” Rainbow muttered to the universe. “What plan?” A suddenly appearing Pinkie Pie wondered. “Don’t worry about it.” Rainbow dismissed her. Rainbow rolled out of bed, ready to restart the day over. “Hey Dashie, you know what today is?” Pinkie questioned. “Yes, Pinkie, how could I forget.” Rainbow seared through gritted teeth. “It’s my birt-“ Rainbow attempted to finish her response when an agonizing pain shot through her chest. “Ow! What the..” Rainbow said as she wrapped a hoof around her midsection. “Are you ok?” Pinkie asked. “Yeah, yeah, never better.” Rainbow said, brushing off the pain. As she neared the front door she felt another shot of pain hit her. “I don’t know Dashie, you don’t look ok.” Pinkie pointed out. “I’m telling you I’m alright..” Rainbow responded weakly. Staggering closer towards the door, Rainbow Dash felt her logs wobble. She attempted to keep them straight but as her vision blurred, she suddenly fell forward, passing out on the floor. “Dashie!” Pinkie yelped in worry. _______________________________________________ With vision slowly clearing and consciousness creeping in, Rainbow Dash attempted to make out where she had awoken. But before she could get a full grasp of her new surroundings, a blurry figure appeared in the doorway. As it approached closer, Rainbow felt her heart drop. Unsure if her mind was playing tricks or if this was reality, Rainbow braced herself for another encounter with her repeat killer. “Feeling better Rainbow Dash?” A now identifiable Pinkie Pie asked. Rainbow loosened her muscles and sunk back into the bed she found herself on. Looking down at herself she noticed she was now adorned in a hospital gown. “Oh man, what happened?” Rainbow asked. “Oh it was awful! You collapsed in your bedroom, and then I was like “wow she must still be tired!” but then you wouldn’t wake up and I was like “OHMYGOSH! Rainbow wake up wake up wa-“ “Pinkie. What day is it?” Rainbow asked desperately. “Friday. Why do you ask?” Pinkie responded, unfazed by Rainbow’s interruption. “No, Pinkie. The date, like the number.” Rainbow clarified. “Ohhhhhhhhhhh! The 14th, your birthday!” Pinkie happily answered. Rainbow simply closed her eyes and sighed. “Is everything alright Dashie?” Pinkie asked. “Yeah, yeah..” Rainbow said staring at the ceiling. There was an awkward beat of silence before the door creaked open. “Visiting hours for Ms. Dash are over now.” A nurse pony informed as she walked in. “Awwww.. oh well. I’ll see you tomorrow Rainbow!” Pinkie said, hopping past the nurse and out of the room. “See ya tomorrow Pinks.” Rainbow said. Rainbow looked over at the nurse. “So, when will I be out of here?” The nurse closed the door and pulled a chair next to Rainbow’s bed. “Well, Ms. Dash. There’s a bit of complication with that.” The nurse started. She then pulled out x-ray scans from a folder. “We just received these from imaging and, well… all things considered you shouldn’t be alive.” The nurse said bluntly. Pointing at the scans, Rainbow saw that her ribcage was completely deformed, with the surrounding tissue not fairing any better. “It’s a miracle really that I’m sitting here talking to you right now.” The nurse admitted. Rainbow looked at the nurse and then back at the x-rays. She then sat up and pulled herself out of bed. “No, no, Ms. Dash hold on!” The nurse stopped her. “I need to get out of here.” Rainbow told her. “No can do, we need you to stay for observations.” The nurse said. “If I don’t get out I’m going to die I ne-“ “I’m sorry Rainbow Dash but I cannot allow that.” The nurse said, pulling Rainbow back into her bed. “I can guarantee you are completely safe here.” Rainbow Dash stared the nurse down for a bit before silently nodding her head and laying back down. “Now is there anything you need Ms?” The nurse asked. “I’m really thirsty.. can I get some water?” Rainbow Dash answered. The nurse nodded and walked for the door. “Thank you..” Rainbow said, weak. As the nurse shut the door behind her, Rainbow listened as her hoofsteps drew further and further away. Feeling the nurse was a significant distance away, she threw her blanket off and pushed out of bed. She slipped out of her room and started traversing through the hospital. Seeing an axe hung on the wall behind a glass case, Rainbow hatched a new plan. ’I gotta find the keys to open that case.’ Going with the first place she thought, Rainbow made her way to the nurse’s office. She silently searched through the hospital, sneaking by undetected, until she finally located the nurse’s office. ’Bingo!’ Letting herself in, Rainbow began searching through the desk in the middle of the room. As she turned over every item, Rainbow was taken aback when she found not the keys, but something much more damning. The colt mask, tucked away in a bottom drawer. Stunned into silence, Rainbow decided to ditch the axe and just get to the exit as soon as possible. As she exited the office Rainbow Dash tried to remember the last exit she saw and quickly mapped a route in her head. As she silently followed her own trail, Rainbow passed by the room she woke up in without even realizing. “Ms. Dash where have you been?!” The nurse whisper-shouted as she walked out of Rainbow’s room. “Y-you stay away!” Rainbow yelled as she whipped around. “Ms. Dash what are you talking about?” The nurse questioned. As the nurse continued to try and soothe Rainbow Dash she became oblivious to the figure approaching behind her. “NO LOOK OUT!” Rainbow called out. Unable to react to Rainbow’s warning, the nurse felt the steel of a knife and was swiftly taken out by the masked killer. Watching her fall to the floor, Rainbow Dash staggered backwards before breaking into a full sprint down the hospital’s halls. With the killer now running after her, Rainbow Dash quickly turned a corner and located a staircase going down. She ran full speed ahead and busted through the door. Reaching the bottom of the stairs in record time, Rainbow was finally released from the hospital. Rainbow quickly noticed she was now down in Ponyville and ran for the center of town. “I’m free! I’m finally free! Try and catch me now bitch!” Rainbow laughed triumphantly. As she was running down the dirt path, Rainbow was suddenly stopped by the blaring ring of a whistle in her ears. “Hold it! Hold it! Where do you think you’re going?” A police pony questioned. “Oh officer thank Celestia you’re here! There’s a maniac just down this path at the hospital, if you run now you ca-“ “Yeah yeah, likely story. I got a hundred of you wackos breaking out the hospital every night, it’s gonna take more than the old “being chased by a murderer” routine to trick me.” The officer said, lighting a cigarette. “W-what?! I’m serious! They’re wearing a colt mask and a black bodysuit! They’ve been chasing me for days, or, the same day, I mean, they-“ “Zip it kid, just cooperate with me here and this won’t get messy.” The police pony said, pulling out hoofcuffs. “Hey, what are you doing?! I’m not the creep here the fucking murderer is! Now go arrest them befor-“ Rainbow was interrupted by the officer holding her down cuffing her. “Hey! Watch it! You’re making a huge mistake!” Rainbow yelled. “Yeah another crazed pony coming from the hospital, if you could sen-“ It was the officer’s turn to be interrupted as he was suddenly tackled by the masked pony. With a yell into his radio, the cop was silenced. “Shit! No, no, nononoNONONO! I was done! I survived! This can’t happen!” Rainbow screamed into the world. The masked pony stood over Rainbow, looking at her cuffed hooves, realizing how immobilized she now was. “You son a bitch! Who are you?! Why are you doing this to me!? Show yourself! Show yourself you coward!” Rainbow yelled at the mask staring at her. The anonymous murderer walked away, grabbing the lighter out of the officer pony’s shirt pocket. Rainbow’s pupils shrank in fear as she connected the dots. With the psycho pony looming over her, its mask illuminated with the lighter’s orange glow, Rainbow stared back in terror. “Oh fuck..” With a drop of the lighter and a rise in the flames, all things went to black. _______________________________________________ RING RING RING “Goddammit.” “Is something wrong Dashi- “Quiet! Be quiet. Shut up.” Rainbow silenced the suddenly appearing Pinkie Pie. “…I’m just joking.” She laughed. “Oh, uh.. hehe.” Pinkie weakly laughed at what Rainbow apparently considered a joke. Rainbow drudged into her bathroom and grabbed painkillers from the cabinet, emptying the full bottle into her hoof. “I’m not sure you should be taking that many.” Pinkie said in concern. “Wouldn’t that k-i-l-l you?” “You’d be surprised.” Rainbow said, washing down the pills with water from her sink. “Hey Dashie, were you having a nightmare?” Pinkie asked. “Why do you ask?” Rainbow asked back. “You were screaming super loud before you woke up. I would’ve woken you up myself but then I thought “oh! she might be having a screaming contest dream, and I wouldn’t wanna ruin her winning streak!” by the way, did you win?” Pinkie responded. “No, I was just dying again.” Rainbow said. “Oooooooh, that makes sense. Wait, no it doesn’t. What do you mean Rainbow Dash?” Pinkie asked. “It’s a long, and frustrating, story.” Rainbow answered. “Oh please tell me, pleeeeeease!” Pinkie begged. Rainbow looked into Pinkie’s puppy dog eyes and pondered her request. “…oh what the hell. I didn’t have plans today anyway.” Rainbow huffed with a sigh. “Come on, let’s walk and talk.” “Woohoo!” Pinkie exclaimed. “So, what does death feel like?” “Ok, wow, starting with a loaded one. Well, it’s painful, as you’d imagine, and seemingly never ending.” Rainbow explained. “Hmm, sounds so not fun.” Pinkie expressed as she followed Rainbow Dash out the door. “How have you died more than once?” “Honestly, I don’t even know. I just keep waking up on the same day over and over again. Like, ok, watch this.” Rainbow said, beginning her presentation. “You see Derpy over there? She’s gonna wave to me and then walk directly into this lamppost, then she’s gonna say “sorry mr. night light, won’t happen again!” and walk off.” Rainbow explained, mimicking Derpy’s mannerisms. “Hiya Rainbow Dash! Hiya Pinkie Pie!” “Heya Derpy.” Rainbow responded with a slight wave. “Hey Derpster!” Pinkie waved excitedly. As Rainbow and Pinkie walked past they suddenly heard a metal banging noise, as they both turned back they saw Derpy rubbing her forehead while looking at a lamppost. “Sorry about that Mr. Night Light, won’t happen again.” Derpy apologized to the post. Pinkie turned to Rainbow in amazement, who looked back with tired eyes. “No. Way. I am friends. With a WIZARD! This is so super fantastic! Have you always had the power to predict the future but were hiding it from everyone you knew for the greater good!? What’s the weather tomorrow? What’s the lotto numbers? Have they found my brother?” Pinkie yelled, jumping up and down. “I can’t predict the future Pinkie, I only know what happens today.” Rainbow explained in an attempt to calm her friend down. “Aww, still pretty neato though!” Pinkie smiled. “Yeah. Sure.” Rainbow sighed. As the two continued walking, Rainbow felt her stomach groan. “Ugh, when was the last time I ate?” She asked herself. “I know when the next time you eat will be!” Pinkie claimed. _______________________________________________ “That was a weird way to word that.” Rainbow said. “Eh, you win some you lose some.” Pinkie shrugged, searching through The Cloud Drop Cafe’s menu. “Sooooooo, what do you hope you get today?” “Out alive for one.” Rainbow muttered. “No silly, for your birthday!” Pinkie giggled. “I don’t know, I don’t really care. It’s just a birthday.” Rainbow answered solemnly. “Rainbow Dash! There’s no such thing as ‘just a birthday’!” Pinkie gasped. “Every birthday is something worth celebrating! So why not celebrate yours?” “I just don’t want to. Is that a crime?” Rainbow deflected. “Weeeeeeell according to page 368 of the party pony’s code-“ “Pinkie.” Rainbow stated, annoyed. “Oh alright, you get off with a warning this time. But don’t you at least celebrate with your family?” Pinkie asked. Rainbow Dash’s eyes peered down, unable to look at Pinkie. “Oh, I-I’m sorry if I said something I wasn’t supposed too..” Pinkie apologized, taking note of Rainbow Dash’s expression. “No, no, it’s fine.. just.. I haven’t talked about this with anyone really. But.. I guess you won’t even remember this ‘tomorrow’ so, might as well get it out now.” Rainbow spoke up. “I, share a birthday with my sister.” Rainbow started. “No way! That is awesome Rainbow Dash!” Pinkie exclaimed. “Yeah, it was pretty awesome. Until about 13 years ago. There was an accident and… and we couldn’t celebrate together anymore..” Rainbow finished, choking up. “Oh.. oh no Dashie I’m.. I’m so sorry.” Pinkie comforted. “It’s fine Pinkie I just, just need a break from birthdays..” Rainbow sighed. “It’s funny, really, you live the same day a hundred times, you see who you are. If Thunder Streak saw me today, moping like a loner, pushing everyone away.. I don’t think she’d be very happy with me.” Rainbow shuttered. “Well… my Granny Pie used to tell me, “Each day is a chance to be a better pony.” and with your situation, I can’t think of a more fitting time to hear it.” Pinkie smiled softly. “…there’s the problem though, I’m not sure I have many more chances. I feel weaker every time I wake up, and eventually, I finally won’t wake up at all.” Rainbow said. “…but if you d-don’t wake up, you’ll miss Wonderbolts practice!” Pinkie tried to stay positive, holding back tears. “Yeah.. Wonderbolts practice..” Rainbow repeated. “..Wonderbolts..” Rainbow’s eyes slowly grew in speculation. Dismissing herself from lunch, Rainbow got up from the cafe table and ran outside. “Rainbow Dash, wait for me!” Pinkie called. _______________________________________________ “Where is he?! Where is that sick fuck?!” Rainbow questioned, barging into the Wonderbolts Academy. “Woah there rookie, where’s who?” Spitfire asked for clarification. “Where’s that son of a bitch Soarin?” Rainbow hissed. “In the locker room, now why are you so ma-“ Rainbow charged through the academy before Spitfire could finish. “..I told him Rainbow wasn’t the romantic type.” Spitfire shook her head in disappointment, coming to her own conclusions. _______________________________________________ “You!” Soarin closed his locker to reveal who was yelling at him. “Umm, hey Rainbow Dash. Can I uh, help you?” Soarin asked. “You tell me. You knew when I was going to Sugarcube Corner. You knew I couldn’t fly and had to stay in Ponyville. You saw me run away to Twilight’s library. You knew the list of suspects I was investigating.” Rainbow layed it out clearly. “And turns out, there was a name I forget on that list.” Rainbow said, shooting looks as sharp as daggers at Soarin. “What are you talking about? What suspects? Investigating them for what?” Soarin asked. “For my MURDER!” Rainbow shouted. “…uhh Rainbow Dash, you’re alive.” Soarin observed. “Stop fucking talking right now! Just accept I’ve got you this time! Just let me live again!” Rainbow demanded. Rainbow looked around the locker room and spotted an emergency fire axe on the wall. Turning away from it, she raised her two back hooves and bucked the glass into pieces, equipping herself with the axe. “Now don’t you make a single fucking move, I’m so done with all the shit you’ve put me through.” Rainbow said pointing the axe at Soarin. “Ok, let’s just calm dow- “I SAID DON’T FUCKING TALK, YOU JUST FUCKING LOVE THE SOUND OF YOUR OWN VOICE HUH?!” Rainbow screamed. “Now. You’re going to do just as I say. You’re going to stay in front of me with your hooves where I can see them. You’re going to walk into the main hall with the rest of the Wonderbolts. And you’re going to confess to planning on killing me. Now walk.” Soarin slowly walked out of the locker room, traversing to the main hall. Upon their arrival, the other Wonderbolts took immediate notice to Rainbow Dash’s tool. “Listen everyone! I think Soarin has something he wants to tell all of you.” Rainbow announced, an almost crazed look in her eyes. With a nervous gulp in his throat and a smack of his lips, Soarin began his message. “RAINBOW DASH HAS COMPLETELY SNAPPED! SHE IS ARMED AND DANGEROUS, ALERT SECURITY AND EVACUATE TO SAFETY!” Soarin yelled for all to hear. Rainbow Dash’s face dropped as she heard the panic unfold around her. “SHE’S GOT AN AXE!” Yelled Blaze. “TAKE MOON MANE FIRST!” Offered Surprise. “What’s your guy’s fucking problem?” Moon Mane questioned “Guards! Arrest that mare now!” Spitfire commanded security. ’what a minute.. if they lock me behind bars, there’s now way my killer can get to me!’ Watching the security ponies charge towards her, Rainbow closed her eyes and genuinely smiled for the first time in days. _______________________________________________ “Umm.. hi, Rainbow Dash.” Blossomforth greeted. “Heya Blossom! How’s it going?” Rainbow asked. “Oh, it’s uhh.. not great, really.” Blossomforth admitted. “Mostly because of you.” “Yeah, sorry about that. But trust me, it was for the greater good.” Rainbow apologized. “Uh huh, yeah. A-anyway, Spitfire told me to bring you dinner. Happy birthday.” Blossomforth said as she slid a tray with a single cupcake into Rainbow’s cell. “I made it myself, before you went, crazy, and all that..” “An angle food cupcake with strawberry icing? You know me so well!” Rainbow praised. “Pinkie Pie helped me with it.. she probably regrets that now though..” Blossomforth frowned. “Alright, I gotta go now. Goodbye Rainbow Dash.” “See ya later Blossom!” Rainbow waved. Unwrapping the pastry, Rainbow took in the elegance of its shape and craft. With a delectable first bite, all things went to black.
All’s RightRING RING RING Rainbow Dash groggily opened her eyes and lifted her head. Reaching her hoof over, she pressed down on the blaring alarm clock. Rainbow Dash then looked at the clock in horror. “No.. nonononoNONONO” Rainbow panicked. “I-I CANT BE HERE! WHY AM I HERE?! I SHOULD BE FUCKING FREE!” “What’s going on Rainbow Dash?” A suddenly appearing Pinkie Pie attempted to comfort. Rainbow ignored Pinkie’s question and ran out of her house on the verge on tears. She immediately took to the skies and flew directly to Wonderbolts Academy. Rainbow barged through the front doors in a desperate, wheezing panic. “Woah there! What’s going on with you rookie?” Spitfire asked, taken aback by Rainbow’s condition. “Spitfire, I need everything I’ve ever left here. From the lockers, from storage from the fucking lost and found, I don’t care I just need it all right now.” Rainbow pleaded. “Ok Rainbow Dash, I can see something’s getting to you, why don’t you just sit here and talk to me for a bit?” Spitfire suggested. “I don’t have a bit! I don’t have a second! I need to pack all my things and get as far away from Cloudsdale as possible!” Rainbow shouted. “Wait, are you leaving Rainbow Dash?” Blossomforth asked. “Cause, I just made this for you.” Blossomforth then revealed an angle food cupcake with strawberry icing to Rainbow. “Thank you, but I already had it last night.” Rainbow said in annoyance. She turned to continue talking to Spitfire, but stopped herself as she made a revelation. “Wait a minute… I died in my sleep.” Rainbow said to herself in disbelief. “What?” Blossomforth questioned. Rainbow Dash turned to Blossomforth with a scowl. “You killed me.” Rainbow accused. “Excuse me?” Blossomforth said in confusion. Rainbow glared down at the cupcake. “You.. poisoned it.” Rainbow realized. “But I never ate it before, so you decided to do the job yourself. And if I did eat it, you’d pin it all on Pinkie Pie. You knew if it was figured out someone poisoned me with the cupcake, they’d immediately assume Pinkie, leaving you free of charge.” “Is there… something happening between you two right now?” Spitfire asked in confusion. “I don’t know what she’s talking about ma’am.” Blossomforth laughed awkwardly. “Maybe we should continue this talk in the locker room.” Blossomforth said as she walked away. “Maybe we should.” Rainbow agreed coldly. _______________________________________________ “Do you really think I’d try to poison you with a cupcake?” Blossomforth asked as she entered the locker room. “I don’t know, you tell me.” Rainbow said as she grabbed the cupcake and blew out the lone candle on top. “Why don’t you try a bite?” Rainbow said, handing the dessert back to Blossomforth. “W-well I wouldn’t wanna take your birthday treat away from you.” Blossomforth rejected sheepishly. “Alright then, I’ll just take it down to the Cloudsdale Police Station. I’m sure they can tell me what this is made of.” Rainbow said as she grabbed the cupcake and started walking out. Blossomforth scowled as Rainbow Dash walked past her, she turned around and grabbed Rainbow by the mane and slammed her into a set of lockers. Rainbow fell to the floor weakly as Blossomforth locked the locker room door. “You annoying, egotistical showoff.” Blossomforth spat. “I get I can be boastful, but isn’t this all a bit much?” Rainbow tried to reason. “You just don’t get it. Let me spell it out for your shriveled brain to understand, the Wonderbolts are facing budget cuts. They have to drop weak fliers and the only thing stopping me from keeping my job is you and your never ending showboating. I can’t lose this! It’s all I have right now! So it’s either I lose everything or you die.” Blossomforth admitted. “Are you fucking serious?! I’ve been in a never ending hell just because you suck at flying!?” Rainbow yelled in bafflement. “And there you go again putting others down because you’re so high on your own cloud you can’t see the pain in other people’s lives!” Blossomforth screamed. “I’m putting you down because you tried to put me down!” Rainbow Dash yelled back as she kicked in one of Blossomforth’s front legs. Blossomforth fell to the floor as Rainbow jumped off the ground and grabbed a fire extinguisher off the wall. Rainbow threw the extinguisher at Blossomforth, who narrowly dodged it. Rainbow charged at Blossomforth and pinned her down. Rainbow drove her hooves into Blossomforth before she pushed her off and reversed their roles. Blossomforth grabbed Rainbow’s mane and repeatedly slammed her head into the floor. Rainbow bucked Blossomforth off and jabbed her in the throat. “Eat shit you bitch!” Rainbow yelled as she grabbed the cupcake and jammed it into Blossomforth’s mouth. Blossomforth gagged and began to panic as she tried to remove any trace of the laced pastry from her face. Noticing the window behind Blossomforth, Rainbow took her chance and tackled her through the other side, into open air. “Are you fucking crazy!?” Blossomforth screamed as they began their decent. “You’re one to talk!” Rainbow retorted. Rainbow Dash held onto Blossomforth’s wings to prevent them from saving her. Blossomforth attempted to shake her off but couldn’t get Rainbow to release her. As the ground below came ever closer, Blossomforth closed her eyes and braces for impact. With a loud crash, the two pegasi collided with the earth. As other ponies gathered around the crash site, they watched as neither Rainbow Dash nor Blossomforth made any move. Eventually, Blossomforth began to twitch as she regained consciousness. With her eyes opening, Blossomforth was met with the sight of Rainbow Dash standing over her with her hoof over Blossomforth’s throat. “Wait! Plea-“ With a final stomp of Rainbow’s hoof, all things went to black. Finally finishing off her daily killer, Rainbow panted with a smile, before falling over and passing out. _______________________________________________ “I cannot believe she thought people would think I poisoned you!” Pinkie Pie said, appalled. “She was never a great judge of character.” Rainbow said, a bandage over her right eye and an ice pack against her forehead. “Oh! I think I see our food coming.” Soarin said, looking beyond their table. “EEEEEEE!! I’m so excited! I’ve never eaten at a Cloudsdale restaurant before!” Pinkie exclaimed. “It’s not a restaurant Pinkie, it’s a cafe. There’s a difference.” Rainbow corrected. “Really? What is it?” Pinkie asked. Rainbow raised her hoof to begin answering, but slowly put it back down as she realized she had no idea what the difference between restaurants and cafes was. “…They’re just different ok.” Rainbow huffed. “Can’t argue with that.” Soarin said with a smirk. “Look I just hit my head pretty hard, cut me some slack.” Rainbow said. “A hayburger, two pancakes and the ultimate fudge-lover’s heartattack?” A waitress pony asked as she brought a tray to the table. “Yes, thank you ma’am.” Soarin said as he retrieved the tray. “Have a good day!” Pinkie called out. She then turned her attention to the dessert she ordered. “What even is that? Like is it a cake or something?” Rainbow questioned. “I have no clue!” Pinkie beamed as she dug into the treat. “Is she always that happy?” Soarin asked. “Would you believe me if I said she was being calmer than usual right now?” Rainbow Dash answered. “How does a high flyer like you meet a pony like her?” Soarin wondered. “Well, everypony in Ponyville has met Pinkie, but only the lucky ones get to call her a true friend.” Rainbow explained. “And I gotta be the luckiest mare in Equestria to have you and her as friends.” “Well, I’m glad to have been of assistance, even if I don’t remember any of it.” Soarin smiled. “Shame here!” Pinkie said through a mouthful of dessert. “Thank you guys, for everything.” Rainbow said as she pulled the two of them into a hug. _______________________________________________ RING RING RING Rainbow Dash groggily opened her eyes and lifted her head. Reaching her hoof over, she pressed down on the blaring alarm clock. “Uggh, does it have to be morning yet?” Rainbow asked the universe. “Of course it does!” A suddenly appearing Pinkie Pie responded. Rainbow looked over at Pinkie in horror, feeling her heart begin to race and her tears begin to swell. “If it wasn’t morning, it couldn’t be your-“ Pinkie stopped herself, taking in her surroundings. “Wait a minute.. this isn’t Lyra’s house. Whoopsies! Sorry Dashie, your birthday was yesterday. See ya later!” Pinkie waved as she let out some air from the balloons helping her float. Rainbow Dash regained her composure and flopped back onto her bed. “Wake me up in the morning.” Author's Note Idk why the chapters are named after directional movements. Hope you enjoyed reading!
